stoked reviews from our happy clients

Happy people, better business results.

Natasha Prybyla - Chief Visionary Officer, Sloco Massage + Wellness

“Before I connected with CultureStoke, I was at a low point with my business. I had lost the passion I once had, and my team was disconnected and unhappy. Despite my efforts, creating a cohesive team environment seemed impossible. I was overwhelmed and desperately needed guidance.

Discovering Marty and Wes at CultureStoke felt like a turning point. Their emphasis on intentional company culture resonated deeply with me. Marty’s insights in his videos and newsletters struck a chord—I knew this was the missing piece I needed to transform my workplace.

Working with CultureStoke, particularly through projects like our Vivid Vision, was transformative. Despite the challenges of 2020, we began to see remarkable shifts in our company culture. Previously, we operated long hours, seven days a week, with me constantly covering gaps. Now, thanks to Marty and Wes’ guidance, Sloco operates as a unified team. The change is palpable—there’s genuine care among team members, professional growth is evident, and work is more fulfilling than ever. Even with reduced hours, we've not only maintained but surpassed our revenue goals.

Personally, this journey has been profound. I’ve regained my passion for my business and stepped into a new role as Chief Visionary Officer. I now have the freedom to step away from the day-to-day without worry, thanks to a reliable team that thrives independently. CultureStoke has been more than a consultancy; it’s been a catalyst for my growth as a leader and as an individual.

In essence, my experience with CultureStoke has been nothing short of transformative. They’ve empowered me to rediscover my love for my business and cultivate a workplace where everyone thrives. Their impact extends far beyond the metrics—it’s changed my life in ways I never imagined possible.

Zach S. - General Manager, SLO Food Co-op

"As a result from working with CultureStoke our view of roles and recruitment process have been completely transformed. Our new approach is holistic in nature, describing the interactions between behavioral traits, abilities, knowledge, experiences, and skills, and honestly we've reached a level of sophistication that shouldn't be achievable at our scale. As a single store, small business, with limited resources & benefits, we've been able to attract and onboard top local talent from the biggest names in our industry. For a small Food Co-op to be able to compete toe to toe with Whole Foods, Sprouts, Trader Joe's, etc. in recruitment is something I'm beyond proud of and is a direct result of the focus on culture, tools, and guidance we've gotten from working with Marty and Wes."

Ronald G. Reilly - CEO / President, PE, Garing, Taylor & Associates, Inc.

“Having experienced firsthand the transformative impact of CultureStoke, I am delighted to share my endorsement of their exceptional services. As someone who has attended numerous CEO-only Leadership Conferences, studied extensively on communication, trust, and leadership, and led teams as a Vice President and CEO, I can confidently say that CultureStoke stands out in their field.

In the Fall of 2020, I engaged my own leadership team with CultureStoke's program, and the results were remarkable. Our team at GTA gained increased awareness and clarity on the challenges we needed to address and the strategies to tackle them from the very first interactions.

CultureStoke combines the insights and philosophies of renowned thought leaders like Maxwell, Collins, Covey, and Wickman with the engaging delivery styles of Sinek, McChesney, and Brené Brown. Their approach is akin to a ‘Moneyball’ strategy—identifying and developing undervalued strengths that drive winning results and provide an impressive return on investment.

What truly sets CultureStoke apart is not just their deep expertise but their ability to connect with diverse personalities and learning styles. Their use of various modalities ensures that every participant, even those who might appear disinterested, is genuinely engaged and enthusiastic. Their compassion, decency, and sense of humor make their training accessible and impactful, even for the most skeptical team members.

Investing in CultureStoke is an investment in your team's future. The leadership and communication skills developed through their program will yield dividends for years to come. I wholeheartedly recommend CultureStoke for any organization seeking to enhance its culture and team dynamics.”

Michelle McCovey-Good - CEO, T&S Structural

"As CEO of T&S Structural, navigating the recruitment and onboarding process used to be one of our biggest challenges. Ensuring consistency in vetting applicants and conducting effective interviews consumed significant time and effort. Our previous methods were inconsistent and labor-intensive, leaving little room for strategic business development.

Discovering CultureStoke was a game-changer for us. Initially impressed by Marty & Wes' passion during a leadership retreat, we decided to explore their expertise further. Attending their workshop on recruiting and onboarding proved transformative. It equipped our senior manager with the tools to streamline our hiring process and create a more engaging onboarding experience for new team members.

The impact was immediate. I, as CEO, was able to delegate these critical tasks confidently, freeing up my time to focus on business growth rather than recruitment logistics. This shift not only saved us thousands of dollars in C-Suite hours but also resulted in hiring exceptional talent who have stayed with us long-term.

I can now attest that our recruitment and onboarding processes are efficient and aligned with our company culture, thanks to the invaluable training from CultureStoke. Their approach emphasizes quality without sacrificing simplicity, making our business more profitable and sustainable. CultureStoke has truly empowered us to prioritize what truly matters—our people."

Heather Muran - Director of Investor Relations, REACH

"My experience with Leadership Class 4 was profoundly personal and transformative. In early January 2023, I faced the heartbreaking loss of my father, who had struggled with health issues before I joined the program. With the class retreat approaching and my emotions very raw, I was torn about continuing. After heartfelt discussions with my family, I decided to proceed, understanding that my vulnerability would likely be visible to others.

Choosing to move forward was a pivotal decision. The support and kindness from my classmates became a pillar of strength during that challenging time. Their empathy provided a much-needed shoulder to cry on, and the program itself created a safe space where I could openly share my struggles and insights. Throughout this journey, my classmates evolved into mentors, supporters, and friends, contributing to my growth as a leader.

The Leadership program's approach was refreshingly casual and creative, making complex leadership concepts relatable and accessible. I particularly valued the small team dynamics, which facilitated group mentoring and offered diverse perspectives. Additionally, the presence of Wes, Marty, and Ligia—remarkable individuals in their own right—played a significant role in my decision to join.

Since graduating from Leadership Class 4, I have seen substantial personal growth. I've gained confidence in identifying and embracing my leadership strengths while acknowledging areas that need improvement. My skills in team collaboration, public speaking, and outreach within my role at REACH have all improved significantly, though quantifying these changes is challenging.

Looking back, I am certain that the skills and insights gained from this program were instrumental in helping me navigate the loss of my father. Daily mental health check-ins, embracing my emotions openly, and practicing vulnerability have all contributed to my personal courage. I am now more comfortable accepting and owning all aspects of myself, the good and the challenging.

I am deeply grateful to CultureStoke for providing the foundation to listen, learn, and grow as a leader. This experience has been invaluable, and I am thankful for the opportunity to have been part of such a supportive and transformative program."

Chief Jim Munro - Grover Beach Police Department

“I was introduced to the South County Leadership Program by former Grover Beach Police Chief John Peters, who spoke highly of its ability to foster community connections, impart valuable leadership concepts, and address pressing issues in south San Luis Obispo County.

As a newcomer to San Luis Obispo County and serving as a Police Commander with aspirations of becoming a Police Chief, I sought a program that would help me establish meaningful connections within the local government and business communities. The South County Leadership Program not only met but exceeded these expectations.

The most significant benefit I received from the program was the network of connections with my classmates, who came from diverse backgrounds and professions. These relationships have been instrumental in my professional growth. Additionally, the CultureStoke leadership insights and skills I gained have made me a more effective and well-rounded leader within my department.

The program also provided me with lifelong friendships and a strong support network. Our class bonded closely, and we continue to support each other and maintain regular contact at various professional events across the county. It has truly been a rewarding experience, both personally and professionally.

I highly recommend the South County Leadership Program, facilitated by CultureStoke, to anyone looking to enhance their leadership skills and build valuable community connections.”

Kassi D. - Business Owner, Nans Books and Crystals

"I had just taken over the family business and was looking for inspiration and support in the leadership community to help me revitalize the business while keeping the culture and history of the store. It was highly recommended that I took Leadership South County because what made it so unique and worthwhile was CultureStoke. That, and the connections you create with your classmates.

Since taking Leadership South County and learning from CultureStoke, the business's culture is thriving and my skills as a boss and leader have expanded beyond what I could ever hope or ask for. I am able to work with a wide demographic of people due to the self-reflection retreat, team leadership workshops, and overall guidance from CultureStoke. The "Me, We, Community" curriculum is the best leadership development outline out there! Anybody who is looking to grow your team or broaden your skills as a leader personally...needs CultureStoke."

Jimmy Paulding - County Supervisor, District 4, San Luis Obispo County

“I am delighted to recommend Marty Imes and Wes Love of CultureStoke LLC. I have had the pleasure of knowing Marty and Wes in both personal and professional capacities, and their impact as leadership trainers and organizational consultants has been exceptional.

In recent years, I participated in the Leadership South County program, facilitated by Marty and Wes. Despite the challenges posed by COVID-19, their execution of the program was flawless. Their deep expertise and seamless teamwork provided a robust foundation of both theoretical and practical leadership insights.

Marty and Wes each bring unique strengths to the table, combining their diverse backgrounds to offer a comprehensive approach to leadership and management. Their positive attitude and effective leadership style make their sessions engaging and impactful, standing in stark contrast to the typical, less inspiring training experiences.

If you are looking to enhance your organization’s culture and leadership, I wholeheartedly recommend CultureStoke. Their dedication and expertise will bring significant value to your team.”

Candace Brown - Manager of Philanthropy, Dignity Health, Arroyo Grande Community Hospital Foundation

“As a lifelong learner, I joined the South County Chamber of Commerce Leadership Class V to further develop my interpersonal and leadership skills and to connect with fellow leaders in South SLO County. CultureStoke LLC’s involvement in this program has truly set it apart.

Wes Love and Marty Imes bring invaluable insights and thoughtful guidance to the South County Leadership program. Their approach to self-discovery and leadership skill-building is exceptional, making each monthly session highly anticipated and impactful.

In just a few months, I’ve gained significant knowledge about communication and leadership styles, which has greatly enhanced my effectiveness both at work and at home. Marty and Wes make leadership and building a positive, resilient company culture both engaging and enjoyable. Their presentations are dynamic, well-organized, and simply fun.

They acknowledge that leadership can be challenging, but their focus on people and teams as the most valuable assets a leader can have, combined with their supportive guidance through various communication and self-discovery exercises, has greatly increased my confidence. CultureStoke has equipped me with a valuable "toolbox" of skills that I can rely on in my leadership journey.

I wholeheartedly recommend CultureStoke for anyone looking to enhance their leadership capabilities and build meaningful connections within their community.”

Gabriel Munoz-Morris - MPA, PE Senior Engineer, Public Works Department, City of Grover Beach

“When I first started serving in my role, I felt a disconnect with the community I was supposed to serve. It’s challenging to excel at work without strong connections to those who can help you achieve better outcomes. The South County Chambers Leadership Program, facilitated by CultureStoke, was instrumental in bridging that gap for me. The program connected me with fellow leaders, both within my class and the ever-growing alumni network, enhancing my local connections significantly.

Although I am passionate about leadership and teamwork, I was initially hesitant about professional development sessions, often perceiving them as stuffy or boring. CultureStoke, led by Marty Imes and Wes Love, completely changed that perception. Their sessions are anything but conventional. Marty and Wes excel at engaging participants, fostering an environment where individuals feel heard and different perspectives are valued. Their genuine focus on the human side of leadership creates a dynamic learning experience that is both fun and impactful.

The value of CultureStoke’s sessions extends beyond the classroom. I’ve found countless opportunities to reach out to contacts I made during the program for help, information, or connections. Conversely, I’ve been able to assist others who needed guidance, which underscores the power of the network built through CultureStoke’s leadership programs. In a small county like ours, these meaningful connections are crucial for driving positive change.

Marty and Wes have also provided me with invaluable guidance that I draw upon during challenging times. Their principles of leadership have become a part of my approach to complex issues. More than just facilitators, they have become friends I can rely on and offer support to in return.

CultureStoke commitment to fostering community and developing leadership skills has made a significant impact on me and my work. Their sessions have strengthened the sense of community among leaders in South County and contributed to making our region an even better place.”

Alec Lance - CFA, Senior Credit Research Analyst, West Coast Financial

“I had the privilege of learning from Marty and Wes through the South (SLO) County Leadership Program in 2022. Their knowledge, experience and collaborative guidance was thought-provoking and challenging; it helped me grow tremendously as a person and a leader at work and in the community!

For Central Coast companies seeking to help their employees learn about themselves (personality traits, dominant learning style, core strengths/weaknesses) and how to work better on teams (establishing trust, communication styles, showing appreciation), I highly recommend Culture Stoke as a outside partner. Their guidance will help accelerate the positive change you're looking for within your organization!

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