Summary: This podcast episode features a conversation between DPC pediatrician Dr. Marina and entrepreneur/coach Sarah from Soul Seat Academy, focused on how physicians and small business owners can effectively hire, lead, and, when necessary, fire team members in a way that centers culture and humanity over rigid metrics. The discussion emphasizes hiring for cultural alignment and a “servant’s heart” first, then training for skills using clear job descriptions, fun and specific role titles, and detailed standard operating procedures so employees feel safe, supported, and empowered in their roles. They highlight the importance of regular check‑in meetings that normalize two-way feedback, encourage employees to propose solutions, and actively address “workplace trauma detox” from past toxic environments so trust can grow over time. Finally, Sarah shares her structured “come to deity” conversation framework for handling serious performance issues, outlining clear paths of resolution, resignation, or termination while still treating people with dignity and viewing mistakes as “tuition” for learning rather than automatic grounds for dismissal.

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