In this special LinkedIn Live edition of The New Talent Playbook Podcast, marketing expert John Jantsch sits down with Rob Levin, co-founder of WorkBetterNow and author of The New Talent Playbook. Together, they explore why so many small and mid-sized businesses are quietly facing a talent crisis, and what leaders can do to build their dream teams in today’s rapidly changing world.

Rob shares the inspiration behind his new book, lessons learned from two decades of entrepreneurship, and why “talent-first” thinking is essential for growth. From hiring for cultural fit to preparing your team for the AI revolution, this conversation offers an actionable roadmap for business owners ready to level up their people strategy.

About the Guest

Rob Levin is the co-founder of WorkBetterNow, a leading provider of remote talent from Latin America for U.S.-based companies. With decades of experience helping business owners scale effectively, Rob is passionate about reshaping how leaders think about talent, culture, and performance. His new book, The New Talent Playbook: The Ultimate Guide to Building Your Dream Team, distills those lessons into a practical guide for building a high-performing team that drives growth and fulfillment.

Get the Book

Grab your copy of The New Talent Playbook: The Ultimate Guide to Building Your Dream Team by Rob Levin. A practical guide for small business leaders ready to build their dream team and lead with purpose. Available on Amazon.

Episode Highlight

“You don’t have to settle for ‘good enough’ people. You can build a company full of people who are excited to be there—who say ‘TGIM’ every Monday.” — Rob Levin

Actionable Insights

• Spot the Signs of a Talent Crisis: If you’re holding on to “C players” out of fear of not finding replacements, or you’ve quietly lowered your business goals because of team limitations, you’re already in a talent crisis. [04:00]
• Treat Recruiting Like Marketing: Hiring isn’t just about job postings—it’s about storytelling. Sell your company like you’d sell your product: highlight your culture, mission, and impact to attract A-players.
• Build Culture by Design: Great culture doesn’t happen by accident. Define your core values, talk about them in interviews, and make sure they’re reflected in daily behavior—not just posters.
• Hire an Assistant Before You Think You Need One: Your first strategic hire might not be a salesperson—it might be an executive assistant who frees you up to focus on your “unique ability” and strategic growth.

More About John Jansch

Check out Duck Tape Marketing Connect with John on LinkedIn.

More About Rob Levin & WorkBetterNow

Like this show? Click on over and subscribe to our YouTube channel! Follow Rob Levin on Substack. Grab your copy of The New Talent Playbook + get the scorecard.