In this episode of Building Better Managers, produced by New Level Work, we dive into one of the most stressful and avoided parts of leadership: the difficult conversation.

Whether you're giving tough feedback to a direct report, navigating a peer conflict, or even managing up, these high-stakes dialogs can easily go off the rails. But they don't have to. We break down a practical two-part planning system to help you move from confrontation to collaboration—without losing your cool.

You'll learn:

✔️ Why 90% of your success is determined before you say a word

✔️ A 7-step internal audit to manage your emotions and clarify your goals

✔️ How to structure your message using the SBI model (Situation, Behavior, Impact)

✔️ The art of firm, neutral delivery—without judgment or heat

✔️ How to collaborate on real solutions and lock in accountability

✔️ Tips for staying focused when the conversation gets derailed

This isn't just theory—it's a full blueprint for turning high-anxiety moments into high-impact leadership.

Learn more

For coaching programs, leadership training, or AI-enhanced tools to support your managers, visit newlevelwork.com

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In this episode of Building Better Managers, produced by New Level Work, we explore one of the most underrated yet high-impact tools in a manager's toolkit: the one-on-one meeting.

While many treat one-on-ones as routine check-ins or status updates, top-performing managers know they're so much more. When done right, one-on-ones are a strategic space to build trust, drive clarity, and accelerate development.

We'll share practical strategies, mindset shifts, and real-world examples to help you turn your next one-on-one into a moment of meaningful connection and growth.

• Why so many managers misuse or underuse one-on-ones

• The mindset shift from task-focused to person-focused

• Simple structures for high-impact conversations

• What great managers do to build trust, clarity, and accountability

• Mistakes to avoid (and what to do instead)

For coaching programs, leadership training, or AI-enhanced tools to support your managers, visit newlevelwork.com

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In this episode of Building Better Managers, produced by New Level Work, we dive into one of the most underestimated leadership superpowers: listening.

At a time when hybrid work, constant pings, and AI overload are stealing our attention, truly listening—with focus, curiosity, and empathy—has become a lost art. But it doesn't have to be.

We explore the key techniques and mindset shifts from New Level Work's "Listening Skills Enhanced" training to help managers lead with greater clarity, compassion, and confidence. Whether you're heading into a tough 1:1, navigating team conflict, or just want to create more trust, this episode gives you the tools to transform the way you listen—and lead.

Key Takeaways

• Listening is an active leadership skill—not a passive one.

• The way you listen shapes your team's culture and performance.

• Don't multitask—your attention is your most valuable currency.

• Curiosity and silence are powerful tools for deeper understanding.

• Better listening improves decision-making and strengthens trust.

Learn More:

For leadership coaching, development programs, or AI-enhanced learning tools to support your managers, visit newlevelwork.com.

Like what you hear?

Do you enjoy our show? One of the best ways to help us out is leave a 5-star review on your platform of choice! It's easy - just go here: https://www.newlevelwork.com/review

For more information, please visit the New Level Work website. https://www.newlevelwork.com/category/podcast

In this episode of Building Better Managers, we explore one of the most essential tools in every leader's toolkit: giving effective feedback. We introduce the SBI Model — Situation, Behavior, Impact, a practical, repeatable framework adapted from the Center for Creative Leadership. Whether you're delivering constructive feedback or reinforcing great work, SBI helps managers communicate with clarity, build trust, and foster real growth. Through examples, breakdowns, and practical coaching tips, this episode guides leaders in creating feedback conversations that are consistent, specific, and authentic — the foundation of high-performing teams.

Key Takeaways:

• Feedback is not about correction — it's about raising awareness.
• The SBI Model offers a simple structure: Situation, Behavior, Impact.
• Composure is critical — never deliver feedback when emotional.
• Constructive feedback should be two-way and solution-focused.
• Positive feedback builds trust and rewires the brain for success.
• Managers should spend more time reinforcing what's working than correcting mistakes.
• Effective feedback drives performance, culture, and leadership growth.

Learn More: For leadership coaching, development programs, or AI-enhanced learning tools to support your managers, visit newlevelwork.com.

Like what you hear?

Do you enjoy our show? One of the best ways to help us out is leave a 5-star review on your platform of choice! It's easy - just go here: https://www.newlevelwork.com/review

For more information, please visit the New Level Work website. https://www.newlevelwork.com/category/podcast

In this encore episode of Building Better Managers, host Wendy Hanson talks with experts Karolin Helbig and Minette Norman to explore the critical concept of psychological safety in the workplace. They discuss the importance of creating an environment where employees feel safe to express themselves, share ideas, and take risks without fear of negative consequences. The conversation covers practical strategies for leaders and team members alike to foster psychological safety, including communication techniques, managing reactions, embracing failure, and designing inclusive rituals.

Key takeaways:

• Psychological safety is essential for creativity and innovation.
• Leaders set the tone for psychological safety in teams.
• Everyone in a team contributes to the climate of safety.
• Communicating courageously is a foundational element of safety.
• Managing reactions is crucial for maintaining psychological safety.
• Embracing failure can lead to valuable learning opportunities.
• Inclusive rituals can enhance team dynamics in hybrid settings.
• The power of pause can help in managing responses effectively.
• Little changes in behavior can lead to significant cultural shifts.
• Psychological safety requires deliberate cultivation and practice.

Meet Minette:

Minette Norman is a consultant and speaker specializing in inclusive leadership development, with a focus on fostering psychological safety to create inclusive work environments.

Prior to her work in inclusive leadership, Minette spent many years leading global technical teams in the software industry, giving her a deep understanding of the challenges facing organizations in today's fast-paced and constantly evolving business landscape.

Meet Karolin:

Karolin Helbig is an expert in helping leaders optimize team performance and transform their organizations through the development of mindset, emotional intelligence, and psychological safety.

With over 15 years of experience as a top management consultant at McKinsey & Company, Karolin has a wealth of expertise in driving business success. Additionally, Karolin holds a PhD in human genetics from the Phillipps-Universität in Marburg, Germany.

Follow:

Minette on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/minettenorman/ Minette Website: https://www.minettenorman.com/

Karolin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karolinhelbig/ Karolin Website: https://karolinhelbig.com/

The Psychological Safety Playbook: https://thepsychologicalsafetyplaybook.com/

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Do you enjoy our show? One of the best ways to help us out is leave a 5-star review on your platform of choice! It's easy - just go here: https://www.newlevelwork.com/review

For more information, please visit the New Level Work website. https://www.newlevelwork.com/category/podcast

© 2019 - 2025 New Level Work

In this encore episode of Building Better Managers, host Wendy Hanson engages with Marlene Chism to explore the complexities of conflict in the workplace. They discuss the importance of developing conflict capacity, emotional integrity, and leadership clarity. Marlene emphasizes the need for leaders to confront their inner narratives and the impact of organizational culture on conflict resolution.

Key takeaways:

• Conflict capacity involves skills development, inner game, and culture.
• Drama in the workplace is inevitable but can be managed.
• Emotional integrity means owning your experience and feelings.
• Changing your narrative can shift your perspective on conflict.
• Leadership identity must align with organizational goals.
• Clarity in leadership roles is essential for effective management.
• Workplace culture influences how conflict is addressed.
• Self-awareness is key to navigating personal and professional conflicts.
• Leaders should encourage open communication to reduce drama.
• Courage is necessary to engage in difficult conversations.

Meet Marlene:

Marlene is the author of four books, including Stop Workplace Drama, No-Drama Leadership, 7 Ways to Stop Drama in Your Healthcare Practice, and From Conflict to Courage: How to Stop Avoiding and Start Leading.

She's also an expert on the LinkedIn Learning platform, offering courses in Anger Management, Difficult Conversations, Difficult Conversations for Managers, and Working with High Conflict People as a Manager.

Marlene has a degree in Communications from Drury University and a Master's degree in Human Resources Development from Webster University. She's an advanced practitioner in Narrative Coaching.

Follow Marlene:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/marlenechism/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marlenechismconsulting/
• Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/marlenechism
• Website - https://www.marlenechism.com/

Subscribe to our podcast on your favorite podcast platform!

Do you enjoy our show? One of the best ways to help us out is leave a 5-star review on your platform of choice! It's easy - just go here: https://www.newlevelwork.com/review

For more information, please visit the New Level Work website. https://www.newlevelwork.com/category/podcast

© 2019 - 2025 New Level Work

In this encore episode of Building Better Managers, host Wendy Hanson discusses the importance of self-care for leaders with management consultant Liz Kislik. They explore effective time management strategies, the distinction between empathy and compassion, and the structural solutions that can support self-care in the workplace. The conversation emphasizes the need for leaders to model self-care, manage their time effectively, and navigate conflicts with compassion and action. Listeners are encouraged to take actionable steps to improve their leadership and team dynamics.

Key takeaways:

• Self-care is essential for effective leadership.
• Good calendar management helps reduce stress.
• Meetings should allow for breaks and reflection.
• Empathy is about feeling; compassion is about action.
• Structural changes can support self-care in organizations.
• Conflict avoidance can lead to increased stress.
• Taking small steps can lead to significant changes.
• Walking meetings can enhance creativity and reduce stress.
• Focus on positive outcomes to foster a better environment.
• Leaders should model self-care for their teams.

Meet Liz:

Liz is an accomplished management consultant and executive coach with over 30 years of experience in developing high-performing leaders and workforces.

Known for her expertise in conflict resolution and improving workplace dynamics, Liz is a respected thought leader and contributor to renowned publications such as Harvard Business Review and Forbes.

Trusted by Fortune 500 companies including American Express, Girl Scouts, Staples, Janssen Pharmaceuticals, and Highlights for Children, Liz serves as a valued advisor, leveraging her wealth of experience to drive their success.

Follow Liz:

• LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizkislik/
• Website - http://www.lizkislik.com/

Subscribe to our podcast on your favorite podcast platform!

Do you enjoy our show? One of the best ways to help us out is leave a 5-star review on your platform of choice! It's easy - just go here: https://www.newlevelwork.com/review

For more information, please visit the New Level Work website. https://www.newlevelwork.com/category/podcast

© 2019 - 2025 New Level Work

In this episode of Building Better Managers, host Wendy Hanson engages in a deep conversation with Chris Wells, VP of EMEA at New Level Work, about the intersections of sales, HR, and learning and development. They explore the importance of personal connections in sales, the similarities between HR and sales professionals, and the common blind spots in leadership development programs. The discussion also highlights the evolving approaches to leadership development, the challenges faced by HR leaders, and the future of sales in the context of leadership development. Chris shares valuable insights and advice for both HR leaders and salespeople, emphasizing the need for trust and understanding in their relationships.

Key takeaways:

• Building relationships is crucial in sales and HR.
• Understanding personal challenges can lead to better sales outcomes.
• HR and sales professionals share similar traits and skills.
• Engagement is key to serving internal customers effectively.
• Successful leadership development relies on storytelling and transformation.
• Continuous development is essential for leadership effectiveness.
• Budget constraints challenge HR leaders in development initiatives.
• Innovative solutions are needed to keep up with changing demands.
• Personalization in learning is becoming increasingly important.
• Trust is fundamental in the relationship between sales and HR leaders.

Meet Chris:

Chris leads New Level Work's European division and brings nearly three decades of experience in learning and leadership development. With a passion for helping organizations unlock the full potential of their people, Chris partners globally to create leadership programs that don't just impact employees, but extend beyond the workplace—positively influencing families, friends, and entire communities.

Follow Chris:

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/cjwells Website - https://www.newlevelwork.com/

Subscribe to our podcast on your favorite podcast platform!

Do you enjoy our show? One of the best ways to help us out is leave a 5-star review on your platform of choice! It's easy - just go here: https://www.newlevelwork.com/review

For more information, please visit the New Level Work website. https://www.newlevelwork.com/category/podcast

© 2019 - 2025 New Level Work

Host Wendy Hanson engages with Kristine Ellis, Director of Talent Development at GuideWell, to explore the complexities of leadership in the healthcare sector. They discuss the unique challenges faced by healthcare leaders, the innovative use of AI in management, and the importance of coaching and collaboration in fostering a supportive work environment. The conversation also highlights strategies for navigating change, supporting mental health, and ensuring employee well-being, all while emphasizing the core values that drive GuideWell's mission to transform healthcare.

Key takeaways:

• Healthcare leadership requires adaptability to unique challenges.
• AI can enhance efficiency and creativity in healthcare management.
• Understanding team dynamics is crucial during times of change.
• Coaching is essential for personal and professional development.
• Fostering collaboration is key in a geographically diverse workforce.
• Employee wellbeing is a priority for effective leadership.
• Building trust through relationships enhances team resilience.
• Values should be lived and not just displayed on walls.
• Recognizing signs of burnout is vital for team support.
• Effective communication is essential for navigating change.

Meet Kristine:

Kristine Ellis is the Director of Talent Development for GuideWell, a $30 billion not-for-profit, mission-driven enterprise focused on transforming health care. At GuideWell, she leads an Employee and Executive Leadership Development team which has received the Association for Talent Development Best Award 10 times and is currently ranked twelfth on ATD's global Best Awards list.

Kristine works with employees, leaders, and executives on topics such as communication, competency development, strategic thinking, personal branding, and work-life balance. She is a well-known expert in her field and has spoken nationally on a variety of leadership topics at ATD events and other conferences for educators, and healthcare and finance professionals. In her own leadership and in her world-class programs, she combines passion with extensive leadership development experience and a unique coaching approach that emphasizes the importance of servant leadership and empathic communication.

Follow Kristine:

• LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristine-ellis-med-mpc-pcc
• Website https://www.guidewell.com/who-we-are/our-businesses

Subscribe to our podcast on your favorite podcast platform!

Do you enjoy our show? One of the best ways to help us out is leave a 5-star review on your platform of choice! It's easy - just go here: https://www.newlevelwork.com/review

For more information, please visit the New Level Work website. https://www.newlevelwork.com/category/podcast

© 2019 - 2025 New Level Work

In this encore episode of Building Better Managers, Wendy engages with Julie Winkle Giulioni, a renowned expert in career development. They discuss the evolution of career conversations, the importance of psychological safety, and the impact of remote work on employee growth. Julie emphasizes the need for continuous dialogue about career development rather than relying on annual reviews. The conversation also explores the role of AI in enhancing career growth while highlighting the irreplaceable value of human interaction. As the workplace continues to evolve, leaders must adapt their strategies to foster an environment where employees feel valued and supported in their career journeys.

Key takeaways:

• Career development is essential for employee engagement and retention.
• Conversations about career growth should happen regularly, not just annually.
• Psychological safety is crucial for open and honest career conversations.
• Leaders should focus on asking questions rather than providing answers.
• Remote work requires more intentionality in career development efforts.
• Recognizing and appreciating employees' strengths fosters motivation.
• AI can support career development but cannot replace human interaction.
• Creating equitable development opportunities is vital in a hybrid work environment.
• Leaders should confront their proximity bias to ensure fair development.
• The future of career development will focus on self-driven growth and diverse experiences.

Meet Julie:

Julie Winkle Giulioni is a champion for workplace growth and development and helps executives and leaders optimize talent and potential within their organizations. One of Inc. Magazine's Top 100 speakers, she's the author of "Promotions Are So Yesterday: Redefine Career Development. Help Employees Thrive" and the co-author of the international bestseller, "Help Them Grow or Watch Them Go: Career Conversations Organizations Need and Employees Still Want," translated into seven languages.

Julie is a regular columnist for Training Industry Magazine and SmartBrief and contributes articles on leadership, career development, and workplace trends to numerous publications including Fast Company and The Economist. You can keep up with Julie through her blog and LinkedIn.

Follow Julie:

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliewinklegiulioni/
• Website: https://www.juliewinklegiulioni.com/

Do you enjoy our show? One of the best ways to help us out is leave a 5-star review on your platform of choice! It's easy - just go here: https://www.newlevelwork.com/review

For more information, please visit the New Level Work website. https://www.newlevelwork.com/category/podcast

© 2019 - 2025 New Level Work