What happens when a simple subject line transforms your entire leadership approach? In this solo episode, Bart Berkey shares the profound moment when a three-word email—“BTW, good morning”—became a turning point in how he leads with humanity, not just hustle. This deeply personal story reveals why connection must come before direction, and how one assistant's courage sparked a lasting shift in Bart's leadership mindset.

Major Takeaways

1. The 3P Framework: Lead with Person, Purpose, Praise to build trust, drive execution, and inspire motivation.
2. BTW, Good Morning: A reminder to pause, acknowledge, and connect before assigning tasks.
3. Micro Chats Matter: Small greetings fuel emotional belonging—especially in hybrid and remote environments.
4. Nine Keystrokes Can Set You Apart: Typing “Thank You” may take 1.7 seconds, but the impact can be career-changing.
5. Ask About the Blueberries: Celebrate wins, recognize efforts, and invite others to share what’s working.

Memorable Quotes

• “Are you barking orders—or building connection?”
• “Small talk isn’t fluff. It’s fuel.”
• “BTW, good morning—three words that rewired how I lead.”
• “Recognition starts with acknowledgment. It’s not about the task. It’s about the person first.”

Why It Matters / How to Use It

This episode challenges the default mode of leadership many fall into—prioritizing urgency over empathy. Whether you're managing a team or building relationships, the shift from task-first to people-first can unlock deeper trust, better collaboration, and higher performance. Try Bart’s 3P approach in your next email or 1-on-1, and watch your team’s response change.

Resources & Links:

• Bart Berkey: MostPeopleDont.com | LinkedIn