Building Better Cultures

Summary

In this episode of the Building Better Cultures podcast, Scott McInnes speaks with Dara Connolly, CEO of Common Purpose Ireland, about the evolving role of leadership in today's organizations. They discuss the importance of connection, self-awareness, and the need for leaders to adapt in a post-COVID world. Dara shares insights on practical strategies for effective leadership, the significance of mentoring, and the impact of good leadership on society. The conversation emphasizes the need for leaders to be open, curious, and engaged in their communities to foster positive change.

Takeaways

• Connection is essential for effective leadership.

• Leaders must adapt to the changing landscape post-COVID.

• Practical networking is about building genuine relationships.

• Self-awareness is crucial for leadership development.

• Surrounding oneself with mentors enhances leadership skills.

• Creativity can be found in all professions.

• Good leadership contributes to societal change.

• Leaders should be open to new experiences and perspectives.

• Awareness precedes action in leadership decisions.

• Building trust is fundamental to successful leadership.

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to Leadership and Learning

• 02:45 The Role of Connection in Leadership

• 05:51 Adapting Leadership in a Post-COVID World

• 09:10 Practical Tips for Effective Connection

• 12:12 Building Leader Capability for the Future

• 14:50 The Importance of Self-Awareness and Mindset

• 17:58 The Power of Good Leadership in Society

• 20:52 Final Thoughts on Leadership and Connection

Sound Bites

• "Get together, we are stronger."

• "Creativity is everywhere."

• "Awareness precedes action."

• "Do good feels good."

• "Keep your mind open to opportunities."

• "Surround yourself with mentors."

• "A coach, an apprentice, and a Jedi."

Summary

In this episode of the Building Better Cultures podcast, Scott McInnes speaks with Lorna McAdoo, head of ESG at Version One, about the importance of organizational culture, the role of ESG in shaping that culture, and strategies for enhancing employee engagement, especially in a post-COVID world. They discuss the significance of listening to employees, integrating ESG into daily operations, and the potential of neurodiversity in the workplace. Lorna emphasizes the need for organizations to be flexible and proactive in creating an inclusive environment that fosters connection and collaboration among employees.

Key Points

• Culture is hugely important for organizational success.

• Engagement and culture start from the ground up.

• ESG initiatives can enhance employee engagement.

• Creating real reasons for employees to come to the office is essential.

• Flexibility in work arrangements can tap into diverse talent pools.

• Listening to employees is key to building a supportive culture.

• ESG can be a powerful tool for culture building.

• Organizations need to think outside the box for talent acquisition.

• The integration of ESG into daily operations is crucial.

• Neurodiversity should be embraced as a valuable talent pool.

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction to Building Better Cultures Podcast

• 02:26 Understanding Organizational Culture

• 06:41 The Role of ESG in Organizations

• 12:45 Engagement Strategies Post-COVID

• 18:38 Integrating ESG into Daily Operations

• 24:53 The Importance of Neurodiversity in the Workplace

Summary

In this engaging conversation, the speakers delve into the importance of non-verbal communication in leadership, the journey of a brain hacker, the power of subconscious storytelling, the role of empathy in communication, and the science behind influence through mirroring and rapport. They emphasize that effective leadership requires understanding and harnessing these elements to create a positive organizational culture. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the intricacies of influence, decision-making, resilience, and leadership. They explore how to effectively negotiate by understanding body language and the importance of gut instincts in decision-making. The discussion also emphasizes the need for mental resilience through acceptance and positivity, especially in challenging times. Finally, the speakers highlight the significance of authenticity in leadership, advocating for genuine connections with team members.

Takeaways

• 99.9999% of leaders leave communication skills on the table.

• Leadership is a mindset, not a position.

• Cultural leadership involves leading teams effectively.

• Subconscious behaviors drive our actions and decisions.

• Storytelling is crucial for effective communication.

• Empathy is essential in today's volatile world.

• Tactical empathy can enhance leadership effectiveness.

• Understanding non-verbal communication is vital for leaders.

• Influence is built on trust and rapport.

• Effective storytelling involves hooks, tension, and payoffs. Influence can be achieved through understanding and mirroring body language.

• Trusting your gut instinct can lead to better decision-making.

• Life is messy, and accepting that can lead to personal growth.

Chapters

• 00:00 Unlocking Non-Verbal Communication in Leadership

• 05:07 The Journey of a Brain Hacker

• 09:49 The Power of Subconscious Storytelling

• 14:59 Empathy and Communication in Leadership

• 20:01 Influence Through Mirroring and Rapport

• 21:30 The Art of Influence and Negotiation

• 23:12 Trusting Your Gut: The Role of Instinct in Decision-Making

• 28:42 Building an Unbreakable Mind: Acceptance and Positivity

• 37:53 Authenticity in Leadership: The Key to Connection

Summary

In this episode, the conversation delves into the intricacies of workplace culture, emphasizing the importance of leadership, purpose, and employee wellbeing. The speakers discuss how culture is shaped by the behaviours tolerated within an organization and the critical role leaders play in modelling desired behaviours. They explore the challenges faced by middle management and the necessity of empowering employees to take charge of their wellbeing. The discussion highlights the need for intentionality in fostering connections and trust within teams, ultimately leading to a stronger organizational culture.

Takeaways

• Your culture is defined by the worst behaviour you tolerate.
• Purpose should be central to organizational culture.
• Leaders play a crucial role but are not the sole influencers of culture.
• Middle management faces unique challenges in today's work environment.
• Wellbeing initiatives must be integrated into the organizational culture.
• Building trust is essential for effective communication.
• Employees should be empowered to lead wellbeing initiatives.
• Intentionality in interactions fosters better connections.
• Storytelling can enhance the understanding of purpose in work.
• Giving employees a voice is key to building a strong culture.

Chapters

• 00:00 Understanding Workplace Culture
• 03:07 The Role of Purpose in Organizations
• 06:03 Leadership and Culture Dynamics
• 09:00 Middle Management Challenges
• 11:51 Wellbeing in the Workplace
• 14:47 Building Trust and Connection
• 18:11 Empowering Employees for Wellbeing
• 21:04 Creating a Strong Organizational Culture

When 20 senior leaders from 9 countries gathered in the heart of Mumbai, the lessons weren't found in PowerPoint decks—they were found in the streets, in conversation, and in shared moments of discomfort and growth.

In this episode, Scott McInnes reflects on his experience with the Common Purpose Senior Leader Programme, exploring how a city of contrasts challenged his assumptions, highlighted the power of diversity, and deepened his understanding of bias and empathy. A story about leadership that unfolds not in loud declarations—but in quiet, meaningful shifts.

Episode Summary

In this episode of Building Better Cultures, Scott McInnes sits down with Jonathan Reed, CEO of Paddy and Scott's Coffee, to discuss the company's incredible transformation over the past three years. Jonathan shares his journey from employee to owner through a management buyout (MBO) and the challenges he faced in reshaping the organisation's leadership and culture.

With a strong focus on communication, trust, and a people-first approach, Jonathan highlights how visibility, vulnerability, and fun play crucial roles in creating an engaged and motivated workforce. He also delves into the company's commitment to social impact, ensuring that business success translates into meaningful contributions to coffee-growing communities.

This episode is packed with insights on leadership, resilience, and the power of responsible commerce to create real change.

Key Takeaways

• Transitioning from employee to owner is a profound leadership shift.

• The MBO process is challenging but ultimately rewarding.

• Clear communication and trust-building are crucial for a successful transition.

• Leaders must be visible, present, and engaged with their teams.

• A great workplace culture includes fun as a key performance indicator.

• People—not just coffee—are at the heart of Paddy and Scott's business.

• Strategic planning should involve and empower employees.

• Vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness, in leadership.

• Businesses have a responsibility to make a positive social impact.

• The future of Paddy and Scott's is built on responsible commerce and community support.

Chapters

• 00:00 Introduction and Background

• 08:54 Impact of MBO on Leadership and Culture

• 19:45 Emphasizing People Over Profit

• 34:52 Future Vision and Social Impact

EPISODE SUMMARY

In this episode of Building Better Cultures, Scott McInnes sits down with Jenni Field, CEO of Redefining Communications, to discuss her new book Nobody Believes You and the critical role of credibility in leadership. They explore the eight interconnected practices that define credible leadership and examine how leaders can navigate post-pandemic organisational challenges with empathy, integrity, and self-awareness.

Jenni shares research-backed insights on how leaders can build trust, foster a supportive culture, and adapt their communication styles to strengthen their credibility. From balancing vulnerability with professionalism to embracing feedback as a tool for growth, this conversation offers practical strategies for leaders looking to inspire confidence and drive meaningful change.

KEY POINTS

• Credibility is the foundation of leadership—without it, leaders struggle to gain trust and influence.

• Post-COVID leadership requires a shift towards empathy, integrity, and adaptability.

• The eight practices of credible leadership work together—leaders must develop all of them to be truly effective.

• Leaders must be intentional about communication, self-awareness, and feedback to maintain credibility.

• A strong organisational culture is built through supportive leadership and a clear vision.

• Empathy is not just an inherent trait—it's a skill that can be developed and strengthened.

ABOUT JENNI FIELD

Jenni Field is an international speaker, author, podcaster, researcher, and business communications strategist. She specializes in helping teams and leaders use communication to take people and organisations from chaos to calm.

From Canada to Slovenia, you'll find her talking about credible leadership, relationships at work, and how to be more impactful with your communication.

A well-respected thought-leader in the communications industry, she is known for her optimistic outlook, energy, and honesty on any stage she is speaking on.

Jenni's podcast, Redefining Communications with Jenni Field, provides short 15-minute episodes focusing on different business topics and providing advice to help organizations go from chaos to calm.

In 2021 published her first book Influential Internal Communication.

Jenni has led several research projects to help organisations tackle some of their biggest challenges; In 2019 she carried out the only research into communication with deskless workers, repeating it in 2023 to see the impact of the pandemic on frontline teams.

Her research in 2021 explored the role of line managers and in 2023 she researched the different practices that make a leader credible – leading to the publication of Nobody Believes You; Become a Leader People Will Follow.

SOCIAL LINKS

• Redefining Communications website
• Jenni's LinkedIn
• Instagram: @Jennifield
• X: @mrsjennifield

REFERENCE LINKS

• Books by Jenni
• Redefining Comms Research Reports
• Redefining Communications Podcast

Episode Summary:

In this episode of the Building Better Cultures podcast, Scott McInnes interviews Eimear Marrinan, VP of People Experience at HubSpot, about how HubSpot has built and maintained a thriving corporate culture.

The conversation explores the challenges and opportunities of hybrid work, the role of feedback and transparency, and the importance of intentionality in fostering meaningful employee engagement. Eimear shares practical advice and insights into aligning company values with the needs of employees and customers alike.

Key Takeaways:

• HubSpot's culture code acts as a guiding principle for hiring, management, and decision-making.

• Constructive, candid feedback fosters personal and organisational growth.

• Remote and hybrid work require intentional strategies for communication, engagement, and productivity.

• Managers need upskilling and support to lead effectively in dynamic work environments.

• Culture is an evolving product shaped by data, feedback, and leadership alignment.

• Aligning leadership around core principles enhances company mission and employee connection.

• Challenges faced by Big Tech reveal the need to balance employee well-being with business priorities.

Chapters:

• 00:00 Introduction to Building Better Cultures Podcast

• 07:01 HubSpot's Culture Code and Its Importance

• 12:05 Feedback and Transparency in Organisational Culture

• 20:04 Intentionality in Communication and Management

• 25:44 The Importance of Intentionality in Management

• 36:01 Balancing Family Culture with Business Needs

In this episode, Scott discusses the power of storytelling in organisations with Des Moore and Shelly Hayward from The Cumberland Building Society.

They explore the importance of a common narrative during transformation, the co-creation process that engaged employees, and the significance of events like Cumberland Calling in celebrating the organisation's story.

The conversation emphasises the need for authenticity, emotional connection, and the ongoing evolution of the narrative as the organisation continues its journey.

1. Storytelling is critical for effective communication in organisations.
2. A common narrative helps unify employees during transformation.
3. Co-creation of the story fosters ownership and engagement.
4. Emotional connection is key to engaging employees.
5. Leadership involvement ensures authenticity and inspires trust.

• 00:00 Introduction to Storytelling in Organisations
• 02:19 Transformation Journey at Cumberland Building Society
• 07:10 The Importance of a Common Narrative
• 10:34 Co-Creation of the Cumberland Story
• 16:47 Cumberland Calling: Celebrating the Story
• 21:52 Engaging Leaders and Customers in the Narrative
• 27:15 The Positivity: Celebrating Pride in the Organisation
• 32:17 Continuing the Story: Future Directions

In this powerful episode, Scott McInnes sits down with Emma Connolly, People and Culture Director at the Confederation of British Industry (CBI), to discuss the organisation's journey through a cultural crisis. Triggered by serious allegations against leadership, the crisis shook the foundation of the organisation, leaving employees and stakeholders grappling with shock and uncertainty.

Emma takes us behind the scenes, sharing how the CBI responded, from holding transparent town halls to engaging with members and implementing a transformative cultural program. Discover the steps taken to rebuild trust and integrity, including co-creating new organizational values, introducing the Speak Up app, and prioritising leadership training. This candid conversation explores the challenges and triumphs of navigating a cultural reset and the ongoing commitment to embedding respect, courage, and brilliance into the workplace.

Tune in for a masterclass in cultural transformation, crisis management, and leadership.

Key Takeaways:

1. Transparency is crucial in crisis management: The CBI held town halls to openly communicate with employees and stakeholders.
2. New values reflect the organisation’s aspirations: Integrity, respect, courage, and brilliance were co-created with employees.
3. Tools encourage accountability: The Speak Up app was launched to empower employees to report concerns.
4. Leadership shapes culture: Training for line managers became a priority to drive meaningful change.
5. Long-term transformation takes commitment: Cultural change requires ongoing focus, even after the initial crisis response.

Chapters:

• 00:00 Introduction to the Crisis at CBI
• 09:17 Organisational Response and Support Measures
• 17:32 Engaging with Members and Stakeholders
• 25:09 Implementing Change: Actions Taken
• 33:32 Measuring Cultural Change and Future Focus