Episode #73: Daring to Suck: How Change, Culture, and Small Experiments Create the Best Places to Work
Change doesn’t have to feel threatening—or exhausting. In this episode, Dr. Cindy sits down with Chris Dyer, author and culture expert, to talk about why most people resist change, how mediocrity quietly creeps into organizations, and what leaders can do to create environments where people truly thrive. They explore practical ways to invite experimentation, normalize “daring to suck,” and build cultures that employees still miss years later. Plus, a few unexpected stories about mountains, beer gardens, and why structure actually sets people free.
In this episode, we cover:
(4:00) Can glasses really change your identity?(9:00) A personal story about mediocrity. (13:00) Shifting success by focusing on getting 1% better every day. (19:00) Accepting the fact that people truly thrive in a structured environment. (22:00) Parenting advice from Chris and Dr. Cindy.(25:00) How did Chris create a positive culture in the work environment?(29:00) The love and hate relationship with being a published author. (38:00) Rapid-fire questionshttps://linktr.ee/drcindyspeaks
Professional Health Products: http://www.phpltd.com
Stopain Clinical: https://www.stopainclinical.com/
Infinedi: https://infinedi.net/
Chris Dyer is a trailblazer in leadership, company culture, and business growth, with a career that’s anything but ordinary. From opening high-end hotels in Hollywood to founding his own successful ventures, Chris has spent years cultivating a diverse, action-oriented career that has propelled him to the forefront of his field.
His expertise has been sought after by over 50 of the top companies around the globe, helping them shape culture, lead with purpose, and grow their teams in ways that transform organizations from the inside out. Chris has also navigated the world of elite coaching—as a former Olympic-level swim coach and Junior Olympic water polo player and coach, he knows what it takes to perform at the highest levels.
He brings that same competitive drive and commitment to every keynote and consulting session, empowering leaders to turn challenges into opportunities. He has climbed some of the world’s most iconic peaks, from Mt. Whitney to Mt. Fuji and Mt. Kilimanjaro, always seeking new horizons and adventures.
Chris led his company to be recognized as one of the fastest-growing organizations five times by Inc. Magazine, and his book "The Power of Company Culture" has been celebrated as one of the “Top 10 HR Books of All Time” by BookAuthority. His work has also been named in Top 50 lists for leadership and change management through leadership, and he has made a significant mark in the world of corporate strategy.
His high-energy, highly relatable keynotes have earned him accolades like "Best keynote of the conference!" as well as features on major media outlets like NBC, CBS, BBC, Forbes, and more. Chris's storytelling and actionable insights help audiences reignite their passion and commitment, making an impact that extends well beyond the conference stage. He challenges leaders to embrace transparency, positivity, and innovation—and to cultivate cultures where people can thrive.
Chris holds a wealth of practical knowledge, and he knows how to deliver it in a way that sticks. When he’s not speaking or consulting, you’ll find him spending time with his family, playing water polo, or savoring a good cup of coffee after another successful climb.
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