The Step UP - Where Leaders, Talent Managers and Leadership Development pros find expert tips for Leadership excellence

Guest Bio:

As the Director of Global Talent Management, Kristofer O’Brien is an executive coach, management consultant, talent partner, sits on the Enterprise Learning Council and seasoned team leader with over 20 years of experience. He leverages his expertise in creating environments that foster superior performance to empower leaders to believe that everyone can make a difference in both their professional and personal lives.

Kristofer oversees the deployment of leadership development programs, leads change management efforts, and promotes a culture of innovation. He is committed to helping his clients and partners explore opportunities for greater success and accountability in achieving their goals.

With a background in consulting, medical technology, healthcare, hospitality, and retail services, Kristofer brings a wealth of leadership knowledge and coaching experience to his clients. As a tenured leader in Global Talent Management and Development, he is certified in numerous learning platforms and has delivered professional development programs worldwide. Kristofer is well-equipped to guide his clients and partners into the next decade of growth and opportunity in an uncertain world.

Kristofer's extensive experience with companies ranging from Fortune 50 giants to startups and nonprofits enables him to tailor his coaching to clients at any career stage. His clientele includes individuals at all organizational levels, from C-Suite executives to new managers. Over his career, he has successfully coached hundreds of leaders from a wide array of disciplines within organizations.

Show Notes:

Leaders, listen up! Today, we’re diving into the crucial art of coaching your team rather than just managing them. It’s all about tapping into the hearts and minds of your employees, encouraging them to take chances and learn from their experiences. We chat with Christopher O’Brien, who brings some serious insight into how leaders can transition from simply getting the job done to fostering a culture of growth and problem-solving. He emphasizes that coaching isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s a game-changer for building high-performing teams. So, if you’re ready to step up your leadership game and discover the power of asking the right questions, stick around!

The importance of coaching in leadership cannot be overstated. Kristofer O’Brien accentuates how coaching is not just an added bonus, but a necessary skill for leaders in today’s fast-paced work environment. The discussion navigates through the challenges leaders face when transitioning from a doer to a coach. Kristofer shares relatable anecdotes from his own career, illustrating how early coaching experiences laid the foundation for his current role. He emphasizes the significance of emotional intelligence in leadership, encouraging leaders to step back, ask questions, and allow their teams to explore solutions independently. This episode is packed with actionable insights, urging leaders to be more intentional with their coaching practices. As the conversation flows, there’s a genuine sense of camaraderie, making it clear that coaching is a journey best traveled together.

Takeaways:

• Leaders need to tap into the hearts of their employees to foster growth and learning.
• It's not just about doing the job; leaders must encourage teams to think critically and solve problems.
• Being a coach-like leader involves asking your team for their thoughts and insights, not just directing them.
• Creating a safe space for leaders to practice coaching can significantly enhance their effectiveness and team dynamics.
• Intentional coaching helps develop future leaders, ensuring a strong succession plan for the organization.
• Leaders should focus on asking better questions instead of jumping in to solve problems, fostering confidence in their teams.

Links for today's show:

• Kristofer's Linked In Page
• Kent's Linked In Page
• Promoted Leader Playbook

Credits:

**Music for this podcast comes from the song Needle & Thread and is provided with permission by Pert' Near Sandstone. Check them out on PertNeaerSandstone.com and on all major streaming platforms.**

*Editing by Fynn Gentle / www.fynngentle.com

Judy’s mission is to catalyze leaders of all backgrounds to be their very best and to help organizations build a workplace ecosystem that allows all individuals to thrive.

Judy is passionate to help “culture-crossers” (women, persons of color, first gen and global professionals) express their Best Self to achieve their highest potential. She also engages with organizations to develop workplace ecosystems and inclusive managers who engage, inspire and promote individuals of different social identities, backgrounds and cultures. As a Chinese immigrant woman who grew up in NYC, Judy’s first-hand struggles and accomplishments as a culture-crosser have deeply informed the mission and work of the firm.

Judy’s impact is proven with a broad base of institutional clients such as McKinsey, Biogen, Fidelity Investments and City Year. Judy is also a sought after lecturer and coach at leading business schools around the country including Wharton, Tuck and Harvard Business School.

Whether facilitating diversity, equity and inclusion discussions at institutions, or coaching individual leaders in demanding growth trajectories or lecturing on effective storytelling at US business schools, Judy brings her passion and authenticity to engage and empower others. Judy is impassioned to write about the intersection of leadership, identity and culture; and, has been featured in numerous professional and national publications.

We’re diving deep into the nitty-gritty of leadership in this episode, and trust me, it’s a ride you don’t want to miss! The main takeaway? Great leaders show up for their teams, especially when the going gets tough. We chat with Judy Shen Feilerman about how simply asking three questions can transform your leadership game: How are you? What’s exciting you at work? How can I help? It’s all about making your people feel seen and valued, which we know boosts morale and productivity like nobody's business. With the world feeling more chaotic than ever, it’s crucial for leaders to step back, breathe, and focus on their team's emotional well-being. So, grab your favorite drink, kick back, and let’s get into how we can all thrive as leaders and make a real impact!

Navigating the choppy waters of leadership in tough times is no easy feat, but that's exactly what we dive into during our latest conversation with Judy Shen Feilerman. She brings her A-game, sharing her journey from an immigrant kid in NYC to becoming a powerhouse executive at Polaroid and eventually carving her own path as an entrepreneur. The episode digs deep into the essence of leadership, especially in today's unpredictable climate where fear and uncertainty reign supreme. Judy emphasizes the need for leaders to step up and genuinely care for their teams, not just as employees but as human beings with real feelings and fears. She throws out some killer questions for leaders to ask their teams, like “How can I help you thrive?” and “What are you really excited about right now?” These aren’t your run-of-the-mill corporate queries; they’re the kind of questions that show genuine concern and can foster a culture of trust and belonging. It’s all about leaning in, listening, and being present for your people—because when they feel seen and valued, they’re more likely to go above and beyond for the organization. So if you’re a leader looking to navigate the current chaos, this episode is packed with insights that might just help you turn fear into opportunity, and uncertainty into innovation.

The conversation flows from Judy’s own experiences in corporate America, where she learned the ropes of leadership from the ground up, to her current focus on helping marginalized voices thrive in the workplace. She challenges the status quo and encourages leaders to reflect on their true intentions: are they in it for the power and profit, or are they genuinely invested in the well-being of their people? The discussion takes a serious turn as Judy addresses the heightened fears many individuals are facing today, particularly those from marginalized communities, and the crucial role leaders play in creating a safe and supportive environment. The bottom line? Great leaders don’t just manage tasks; they inspire and empower their teams. And in these turbulent times, that’s more important than ever.

In wrapping up, Judy provides actionable advice for leaders, stressing the importance of regular check-ins and conversations that connect. She emphasizes that these chats should be about more than just performance metrics; they should foster a sense of community and support. So whether you’re at the C-suite level or just starting your leadership journey, this episode will give you a fresh perspective on what it means to lead with heart and purpose. Whether you're a seasoned leader or just stepping into the role, you can’t afford to miss the gems of wisdom Judy shares in this conversation. Tune in, take notes, and get ready to elevate your leadership game!

Takeaways:

• Motivation starts with listening to what drives you; it’s all about understanding yourself.
• Asking your team about their interests not only shows you care but also boosts productivity.
• Great leadership today means supporting your people through fear and uncertainty with empathy.
• Leaders need to step back and reconnect with their purpose to inspire their teams effectively.
• Regular check-ins are key; they help foster a sense of belonging and engagement among employees.
• The best leaders ask open-ended questions to help their team thrive, creating a culture of trust.

Links for today's show:

• Judy's Linked In Page
• Dreambridge Partners
• Kent's Linked In Page
• Promoted Leader Playbook

**Music for this podcast comes from the song Needle & Thread and is provided with permission by Pert' Near Sandstone. Check them out on PertNeaerSandstone.com and on all major streaming platforms.**

*Editing by Fynn Gentle / www.fynngentle.com

Marc founded the Talent Strategy Group and advises the world’s premier companies, governments, foundations, NGOs and not-for-profit organizations. He is regarded as a trusted counselor to organizations on their most sensitive talent issues.

He co-founded the Talent Management Institute, now the world’s most popular executive education program on talent with 7,000+ graduates. He co-authored the Harvard Business Review Publishing best-seller One Page Talent Management and 8 Steps to High Performance. His prior corporate experience includes executive HR roles at Bank of America and Avon Products. His prior consulting experience includes starting and leading the Global Leadership Consulting practice at Aon/Hewitt.

We dive into the nitty-gritty of talent management, tackling the real talk about upskilling and reskilling in today’s job market. It’s a wild ride out there, and while everyone wants to jump into new roles, the reality check is that not everyone’s cut out for it—especially when they’re up against seasoned pros like Susie, who’s been rocking graphic design for a decade. Our guest, Mark Efron, breaks it down for us, highlighting that while the concept of shifting jobs sounds peachy, the practical application is a whole other beast. We also get into the importance of operationalizing talent processes so they actually work instead of just looking pretty on paper. So grab your headphones and let’s get into the nitty-gritty of how to not just keep up with the times but actually thrive in them!

Exploring the landscape of talent management these days is like diving into a wild ocean of change, where every wave brings new challenges and opportunities. Mark Efron, the big cheese at the Talent Strategy Group, joins us for a deep chat about what’s cooking in the talent space. We kick things off by discussing the heightened interest from CEOs and boards in attracting top talent, which is music to our ears. After years of being sidelined, talent management is finally getting the spotlight it deserves. But hold your horses! While the demand for talent is skyrocketing, there's a bit of a hiccup on the supply side. People are starting to rethink what it means to be a high performer. The pandemic has shaken things up, making folks evaluate their work-life balance and question whether they really want to climb that corporate ladder. This shift means that companies must think creatively about how they engage and retain their employees. We dive into the nitty-gritty of talent management: how do we bridge the gap between the skills that are in demand and the people who possess them? Efron emphasizes that skilling and reskilling are essential, but it’s not all sunshine and rainbows—implementing these changes is easier said than done. We also touch on the importance of operationalizing talent management processes so that they don’t just exist on paper but actually yield results. If you're in the talent management game or just curious about how companies are tackling these issues, this episode is packed with insights that could make your head spin in a good way!

Takeaways:

• Mark emphasizes the importance of clear deliverables for high-performing teams and regular check-ins to ensure everyone stays on track.
• There’s a growing demand for great talent, but the supply side is struggling as many potential high performers opt out of traditional career paths.
• Upskilling and reskilling are hot topics, but they come with real-world challenges that can make implementation tricky in any organization.
• AI has potential in talent management, especially in goal setting, but its effectiveness will largely depend on the quality of data used.
• Leaders must build strong relationships to increase their influence, not just rely on technical skills and data-driven decisions.
• The concept of critical roles in organizations needs a careful approach; it's essential to ensure the right people are placed in roles that truly matter.

Links for today's show:

• Marc Effron's Linked In Page
• Talent Strategy Group
• Kent's Linked In Page
• Promoted Leader Playbook

**Music for this podcast comes from the song Needle & Thread and is provided with permission by Pert' Near Sandstone. Check them out on PertNeaerSandstone.com and on all major streaming platforms.**

*Editing by Fynn Gentle / www.fynngentle.com

Capping a 25-year career as a chief marketing officer and executive vice president of business development, Scott Jeffrey Miller currently serves as FranklinCovey's senior advisor on thought leadership. As a senior advisor, Scott leads the strategy and development of the firm's Speakers Bureau and the production of podcasts, webcasts, and best-selling books. Scott also hosts On Leadership with Scott Miller, the world's largest and fastest-growing leadership podcast, with a reach of more than six million listeners weekly. Scott also authors a leadership column for Inc.com and is the best-selling author of the Mess to Success book series.

Not everyone should be a leader of people, and that's the heart of today’s chat. We’re diving into the idea that while leadership gets all the glory, it's not the only game in town, and let’s be real, it’s not for everyone. My buddy Scott Jeffrey Miller—an absolute powerhouse in the leadership space—joins me to break down why "power skills" are what really make the world go round, especially in this wild ride of a job market. We're tossing around concepts like self-awareness and the importance of building meaningful relationships over just flexing those hard skills. So if you've ever felt stuck in the leadership hamster wheel or just want to level up your interpersonal game, this episode’s got you covered with insights that could change the way you think about work, and maybe even life. Let's get into it!

The leadership landscape is changing faster than a toddler can throw a tantrum, and today’s conversation dives into the nitty-gritty of what it really means to be a leader in this chaotic world. Scott Jeffrey Miller, who’s not just a leadership guru but also a bestselling author and ex-CMO, brings some serious insights to the table. He’s challenging the notion that everyone should aspire to be a leader just because they’re good at their jobs. Miller points out that not every top performer is suited for leadership, and honestly, it’s about time someone said it out loud. We’re all about honesty here, and that’s one of the core messages: leadership isn’t just about having the title; it’s about having the skills—what Miller dubs 'power skills'.

These power skills are the interpersonal skills that actually move the needle in a workplace and include things like emotional intelligence, active listening, and effective communication. It’s a shift from the traditional 'soft skills' label, which has often been brushed off as less important. Miller emphasizes that it’s these skills that can make or break a leader’s success. He shares some personal anecdotes about his own leadership journey and the bumps he’s faced along the way, reminding us all that growth comes from learning from our mistakes. We also touched on the importance of self-awareness, which is crucial for any leader looking to improve. Knowing how you come across to your team can help you adjust and be more effective in your role.

The episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone looking to step up their leadership game. Whether you’re leading a small team or steering a large organization, understanding and honing your power skills could be the key to unlocking your full potential. So, if you’re ready to take your leadership to the next level, grab your headphones and tune in. You’ll walk away with some actionable advice and maybe a chuckle or two along the way!

Takeaways:

• Leadership isn't about being in charge; it's about building relationships and influencing others effectively.
• Not everyone is cut out to lead people, and that's totally okay—there are other crucial roles that keep things running smoothly.
• The skills that elevate you as a leader are often interpersonal, not the technical skills you were hired for.
• Self-awareness is key; understanding how others perceive us can transform our leadership style and effectiveness.
• Power skills are essential for today's leaders, especially as we navigate a world increasingly influenced by AI.
• Feedback culture is vital—leaders should actively seek input to grow, not just give it.

Links for today's show:

• Scott's Linked In Page

• Gray Miller Agency

• Books by Scott Jeffrey Miller

• Kent's LinkedIn Page

• Promoted Leader Playbook

**Music for this podcast comes from the song Needle & Thread and is provided with permission by Pert' Near Sandstone. Check them out on PertNeaerSandstone.com and on all major streaming platforms.**

*Editing by Fynn Gentle / www.fynngentle.com

Jurgen Bank is a consultant and coach with over 20 years experience. Originally trained in Germany, for a very long time in the USA, he has consulted with dozens of the Global Fortune 1000 companies, in the US, India, Korea, Singapore, Hong Kong, and all over Europe. He and I met over 15 years ago when we were colleagues at what became Korn Ferry. Always working with leaders, understanding their tasks and challenges, training, assessing and coaching them.

After Boston, Boulder, Minneapolis, St. Louis, New Haven and New York, he currently resides in Philadelphia with his wife Susan. He has raised two daughters to become strong independent and confident women. 

He works with leaders and mid-size organizations setting them up for success, both as coach and Human Capital consultant. 

Procrastination, a pervasive challenge among leaders, is the focal point of our discussion today. On today's episode, I engage in a dialogue with Jurgen Bank, a distinguished consultant and coach specializing in procrastination. We explore the underlying motivations that contribute to this behavior and consider strategies to mitigate its impact on professional efficacy. Jurgen elucidates the importance of self-exploration in understanding one's procrastination patterns and emphasizes the necessity of establishing personal boundaries to enhance productivity. Our conversation aims to equip listeners with actionable insights to transform their approach to procrastination and optimize their leadership capabilities.

This episode serves as an enlightening exploration of procrastination, a topic that resonates universally in the realm of professional development. Jurgen Bank, an expert in the field, navigates the intricacies of why individuals procrastinate, proposing that it is often not a simple matter of poor time management but rather a complex interplay of psychological factors. Throughout the discussion, Jurgen encourages listeners to engage in self-inquiry, identifying the emotional and cognitive barriers that contribute to their procrastination. The dialogue progresses to introduce practical strategies, including the establishment of boundaries and the importance of saying no to non-essential commitments, thereby safeguarding one's energy for more critical tasks. Additionally, the episode emphasizes the value of taking actionable steps towards change, such as scheduling dedicated time for significant projects and recognizing the importance of aligning one's work with intrinsic motivations. Ultimately, the episode provides a comprehensive framework for understanding and combatting procrastination, thereby empowering leaders to enhance their efficacy and performance.

Takeaways:

• Procrastination is a multifaceted issue that often stems from various underlying fears and motivations.
• Identifying the root causes of one's procrastination can empower individuals to implement effective strategies for improvement.
• Establishing clear boundaries and learning to say no are essential skills for maintaining personal and professional focus.
• Regularly scheduling time for important tasks can help mitigate the tendency to procrastinate, fostering a more productive workflow.
• Reflecting on past experiences of procrastination can reveal patterns and provide insights for future behavior modification.
• Engaging in self-dialogue regarding procrastination can facilitate greater awareness and personal accountability.

Links referenced in this episode:

• Jürgen Bank | LinkedIn
• Calendly - Jürgen Bank
• Kent.Coach/Playbook
• Kent.Coach

**Music for this podcast comes from the song Needle & Thread and is provided with permission by Pert' Near Sandstone. Check them out on PertNeaerSandstone.com and on all major streaming platforms.**

*Editing by Fynn Gentle / www.fynngentle.com

Kyle Courtaway has over 25 years of experience working in all areas of strategic talent management including succession planning, high potential identification, competency alignment, performance management systems, executive coaching, 360° instrumentation, intact leadership team development, and key talent development. Kyle’s previous roles have included Learning and Development Consultant, Senior Leadership and Team Development Consultant, and Organizational Development Manager at Andersen/Accenture.

Leadership isn’t just about titles or corner offices; it’s all about influence, relationships, and the conversations we have. Today, we’re diving deep into the world of leadership with our guest, Kyle Courtaway, a leadership development consultant who’s all about demystifying what it means to lead effectively. We’ll break down how your ability to connect with others and engage in meaningful dialogue can shape your leadership style and ultimately, your success. It’s like a truth bomb—once you realize that leadership is less about authority and more about building rapport, everything clicks into place. Buckle up as we explore how to build those vital relationships and have the tough conversations that can elevate your leadership game to another level!

Leadership isn't just about being in charge; it's all about influence—and that influence is built through the relationships we cultivate and the conversations we have. We dove deep into this topic with Kyle Courtaway, a seasoned leadership development consultant, who shared his journey from a confused college grad to a knowledgeable leader in organizational development. Kyle brought up some heavy-hitting concepts, like how many new leaders are thrown into the deep end without the necessary tools to swim. He emphasized that leadership is often misunderstood as a solo endeavor, when in reality, it's a team sport. During our chat, we discussed how leaders often need to unlearn old habits and pick up new ones that are more suited for their roles. Kyle also touched on the importance of having a shared vocabulary in leadership—because let's face it, everyone uses the same buzzwords but means totally different things. It’s crucial for leaders to have that precise understanding so they can truly connect and lead effectively.

We had a laugh talking about the absurdity of being promoted to lead a team just because someone is good at their job. It’s like saying, “Congrats on being a great accountant! Now, go manage a bunch of people!” This transition often leads to a lot of confusion and, frankly, a few performance improvement plans down the line. Kyle's insights on how to avoid that pitfall were golden. He explained that successful leadership requires ongoing conversations and building relationships, emphasizing that many leaders feel isolated and unsupported as they navigate their new responsibilities.

In a nutshell, if you’re stepping up to lead, you better be ready to build some serious connections and have some real conversations. We wrapped up our deep dive with some practical advice for current leaders: seek clarity in your conversations, be intentional about your relationships, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. Because at the end of the day, leadership is not just about the position; it’s about the people you influence along the way. Tune in for a whole heap of wisdom and a few laughs along the journey of leadership growth!

Takeaways:

• Leadership isn't just about making decisions; it's about building relationships and having conversations that influence others.
• Understanding your leadership style requires knowing the key partners you work with and the conversations that matter.
• Successful leaders learn to adapt and unlearn behaviors that no longer serve them in their new roles.
• Creating a supportive environment for leaders to share experiences reduces feelings of isolation and fosters peer learning opportunities.
• Effective leadership development emphasizes experiential learning, helping leaders connect with others while enhancing their relational skills.
• A metacognitive framework can help leaders reflect on their thinking, improving their decision-making and communication skills.

Links for today's show:

• Kyle's Linked In Page
• Ninth Edge's company website
• Kent's Linked In Page
• Promoted Leader Playbook

**Music for this podcast comes from the song Needle & Thread and is provided with permission by Pert' Near Sandstone. Check them out on PertNeaerSandstone.com and on all major streaming platforms.**

*Editing by Fynn Gentle / www.fynngentle.com

Geoffrey M. Roche, MPA, is the son of a nurse, healthcare expert, diversity advocate, and education enthusiast, presently serving as the inaugural North America Director of Workforce Development at Siemens Healthineers. In this role, he leads all national workforce development strategy and partnerships to advance a sustainable future-ready healthcare workforce. Roche speaks often on healthcare workforce topics at global conferences such as Becker's Annual Conference, HIMSS, HLTH, ASU+GSV, HolonIQ, and ViVE. In 2022, Roche was nominated to the Forbes Business Council for his national level work.

Roche has over 16 years of experience in hospital and higher education leadership in the United States. He has served on various boards and committees, including the United Way of North Carolina, United Way of Lebanon County, United Way of Pennsylvania, and Patient Safety Committee for WellSpan Good Samaritan Hospital. Roche also presently serves on the JFF Corporate Innovation Council and the Goldman Sachs Horizon Inclusive Growth Corporate Network, representing the healthcare industry.

We're diving deep into the concept of belonging today, and let me tell you, it's a big deal! Our guest, Jeffrey Roche, really nails it by emphasizing that creating a sense of community in the workplace isn't just a nice-to-have; it's a must-have for keeping people engaged and happy. He shares some solid insights on the challenges leaders face in making their teams feel valued and heard, especially in the wild world of healthcare where retention is becoming a real headache. We chat about how asking the right questions—like, "What could we change to make this place better?"—can spark some powerful discussions and lead to actual change. So, grab a comfy seat and tune in while we explore the nuts and bolts of building a workforce that feels like home, rather than just a job!

This episode dives deep into the crucial topic of belonging in the workforce, particularly in healthcare. We kick things off with a vibrant conversation featuring Jeffrey Roche, the director of workforce development at Siemens Healthineers. He shares his journey from being the son of a nurse to leading initiatives that shape the future of healthcare talent. One of the standout moments is when Roche emphasizes the need for organizations to create environments where every employee feels valued and heard. It's not just about filling positions; it's about fostering a culture where people can thrive. Roche reflects on his experiences, highlighting that even before the pandemic, there were underlying issues in the healthcare sector regarding employee retention and engagement. He articulates the stark reality: the healthcare industry is facing a looming shortage of workers, and unless organizations start prioritizing their cultures and the well-being of their employees, they'll continue to struggle. He encourages leaders to actively listen to their teams and implement changes based on feedback, making it clear that a people-first approach is not just a nice-to-have but a necessity for sustainable success.

Takeaways:

• A big part of leadership is lifting others up so they can reach their potential, which creates a supportive culture.
• Listening to employees about what they want to change in their workplace is crucial for improvement and growth.
• Belonging in the workplace isn’t just a buzzword; it’s about making everyone feel valued and included, and that’s essential.
• Healthcare leaders need to adapt to workforce changes and focus more on people-centric approaches to retain talent.
• Creating a culture of gratitude and psychological safety can significantly enhance employee engagement and satisfaction.
• The future of healthcare relies on diverse and engaged workforces that feel they belong, which ultimately improves patient care.

Links for today's show:

• Geoffrey's Linked In Page

• Kent's Linked In Page

• Promoted Leader Playbook

**Music for this podcast comes from the song Needle & Thread and is provided with permission by Pert' Near Sandstone. Check them out on PertNeaerSandstone.com and on all major streaming platforms.**

*Editing by Fynn Gentle / www.fynngentle.com

Lorelei Whitney, CEO of Wave Leader Consulting, partners with business leaders to propel successful strategies and high performance through culture, change leadership, strategic talent management, and diverse, equitable and inclusive teams. Her balanced focus on people and drive for results, moves others to action. Her influential approach is business relevant and insightful, bringing a partnership that activates empowerment and creates a pull for high performance.

Today, we're diving deep into the concept of leadership legacy, and let me tell you, it’s all about planting seeds for the future, even if you don’t get to see the fruits of your labor right away. Lorelai Whitney, the brain behind Wave Leader Consulting, joins us to share her insights on how being intentional about your legacy can change the game in both our personal and professional lives. We chat about how starting each day with a clear legacy statement can help guide your interactions and decisions, making your leadership style more impactful. Plus, we get into the nitty-gritty of figuring out what truly matters to you, because let's face it, if you don’t know your “why,” you might as well be running in circles. So grab your favorite drink, kick back, and let’s dig into how we can all step up our leadership game!

Stepping into the world of leadership legacy, we’re diving deep into what it means to leave a mark on the world around us. Our guest, Lorelei Whitney, takes us on a rollercoaster ride through her own experiences, from being a corporate HR leader to an inspiring coach and consultant. She shares a gripping story about a life-changing moment at the beach when her daughter was caught in a rip current and almost lost her life. This pivotal experience propelled Lorelei into a journey of self-discovery and purpose, igniting a passion for helping others uncover their own legacies. We explore how every interaction and meeting can be approached with intention, emphasizing the need for leaders to define and articulate their legacy statements. This is about more than just climbing the corporate ladder; it’s about understanding what truly drives us, what we want to be remembered for, and how our daily actions can contribute to a greater cause. Lorelei's insights on identifying personal passions and purposes have the potential to shift perspectives and inspire leaders to act with greater intent, ultimately creating a ripple effect of positive change within their organizations and beyond.

Takeaways:

• Sowing seeds for the future is all about being intentional in every action we take; you might not see the results right away, but these seeds will grow over time.
• Creating a legacy statement can help guide your daily interactions and decisions, making sure you're living intentionally and aligning with your values.
• Finding your 'why' is crucial; it helps you navigate challenges and define your purpose, making it easier to endure tough times and setbacks.
• Leadership legacy isn't just about personal success; it's about how you can uplift others and make a positive impact in your community and workplace.
• Embrace your unique journey and the purpose you bring; it can shift over time, but staying connected to that purpose is what shapes your legacy.
• Don't shy away from discussing your legacy; having those deeper conversations can reveal what truly matters to you and how you want to be remembered.

Links for today's show:

• Lorelei's Linked In Page

• WaveLeader Consulting

• Kent's Linked In Profile

• Promoted Leader Playbook

**Music for this podcast comes from the song Needle & Thread and is provided with permission by Pert' Near Sandstone. Check them out on PertNeaerSandstone.com and on all major streaming platforms.**

*Editing by Fynn Gentle / www.fynngentle.com

Andy Storch is an author, consultant, coach, speaker and facilitator on a mission to get the most out of life and inspire others to do the same.

He is the author of the book, Own Your Career Own Your Life, which is designed to help professionals stop drifting and take control of their futures.

Andy is also the host of three podcasts, including The Talent Development Hot Seat; Own Your Career; and My NFT Journey. He is the co-founder and host of The Talent Development Think Tank Conference and Community as well as the host of the Talent Development Virtual Summit.

Today, we're diving into the concept of owning your career and why it’s crucial for finding happiness at work. Our guest, Andy Storch, shares some solid wisdom on how taking charge of our career paths can lead to greater fulfillment. He believes that while not everyone wants to be an entrepreneur, everyone wants to feel satisfied in their job. We chat about the importance of self-awareness, continuous learning, and building a personal brand, all while navigating the sometimes murky waters of corporate culture. So, if you're looking to step up your career game and find out how to make your work life more enjoyable, this episode is packed with tips and insights to get you on the right track. Buckle up, folks; it’s gonna be a good ride!

Diving deep into the world of career ownership, Andy Storch and Kent Kniebel share their insights on what it truly means to be in the driver’s seat of your own professional journey. Andy, a seasoned author and consultant, reflects on his own winding career path—from aspiring athlete to corporate consultant to entrepreneur. He emphasizes that while not everyone is cut out to run their own business, everyone deserves to find joy and fulfillment in their work. The duo discusses the importance of taking intentional steps toward career happiness and fulfillment, advocating for a proactive approach where individuals own their career trajectories. They tackle the common corporate culture of waiting for promotions or guidance, highlighting the need for both employees and leaders to foster open communication about career aspirations. Andy's framework encourages continuous learning, networking, and building a personal brand, which are essential for anyone looking to thrive in today’s ever-evolving job market. The episode wraps with practical advice for leaders: to nurture their teams by encouraging self-advocacy and curiosity, ultimately creating a more engaged and motivated workforce.

Takeaways:

• Owning your career means taking charge of your happiness and fulfillment; it's key to long-term success.
• Not everyone dreams of being a big shot entrepreneur, but everyone wants career satisfaction, am I right?
• To thrive in your career, invest in continuous learning, build your network, and create your personal brand.
• Leaders should empower their teams by encouraging open conversations about career paths and aspirations, not just promotions.

Links for today's show:

• Andy Storch's Linked In Page

• https://andystorch.com/

• Own your Career, Own Your Life Book

• Kent's Linked In Page

• Promoted Leader Playbook

**Music for this podcast comes from the song Needle & Thread and is provided with permission by Pert' Near Sandstone. Check them out on PertNeaerSandstone.com and on all major streaming platforms.**

*Editing by Fynn Gentle / www.fynngentle.com

Dr. Sarah Bridges, PhD, is the founder and leader of Bridges, with 25 years’ experience as a psychologist, executive coach, speaker, writer and leadership advisor. Dr. Bridges is known for offering challenging, yet practical, solutions to help people break through their own assumptions, discover their potential and build cohesive teams.

One of the key takeaways from our chat today is that it’s not about having a lack of resources; it’s really about figuring out your priorities. My mentor dropped that wisdom on me ages ago, and it still rings true: there are never resource problems, just priority problems. We dove into how starting with a clear understanding of where you're at can set the stage for effective personal development and coaching. We also riffed on the importance of alignment—not just with your own goals but also making sure everyone involved is on the same page about where you're starting from. Plus, we had some laughs while unpacking how to tackle those pesky distractions in our work lives, from tech interruptions to the good ol’ “let’s just have one more meeting” trap. So, kick back and enjoy as we explore the nitty-gritty of leadership growth and development!

Prioritizing where we start is key in effective leadership development, as discussed in this episode. Sarah Bridges, our expert guest, shares her journey into organizational consulting, revealing that it wasn't a predetermined path but rather a series of serendipitous events that led her there. With a background in psychology and years of experience, Sarah brings a wealth of knowledge about the intricacies of coaching and leadership. The conversation delves deep into the common pitfalls leaders face when it comes to assessing their skills and growth areas. One of the standout insights is the concept of misalignment in leadership expectations. Often, leaders think they are making substantial progress, while their supervisors might have an entirely different perspective. This disconnect underscores the importance of having candid conversations about current performance levels and aligning on what success looks like. Sarah's approach involves not just setting ambitious goals, but also understanding the starting line. By taking an honest inventory of where one stands, leaders can cultivate a clear path forward. The episode wraps up with practical advice for leaders and HR professionals alike, emphasizing the power of feedback and the importance of being engaged in the coaching process. Whether you're a leader or someone supporting leaders, this episode is a treasure trove of insights that can help you step up your game and foster a culture of growth and accountability.

Takeaways:

• One of my mentors once told me that there are never resource problems, only priority problems, which totally flipped my perspective.
• When setting goals, it's crucial to evaluate where you're starting from, not just where you want to go.
• We all share the same 24 hours in a day, so it's essential to prioritize effectively and delegate where possible.
• Coaching isn't just about identifying weaknesses; it's about understanding the context and realigning expectations between leaders and their teams.
• In coaching, gathering 360 feedback is key to understanding performance gaps and aligning on development goals for greater success.
• Creating an environment conducive to focus can significantly enhance productivity, so turning off distractions is a must.

Links for today's show:

• Sarah's Linked In Page
• Sarah's website
• Bridges Ahead Fall Retreat
• Kent's Linked In Page
• Promoted Leader Playbook

**Music for this podcast comes from the song Needle & Thread and is provided with permission by Pert' Near Sandstone. Check them out on PertNeaerSandstone.com and on all major streaming platforms.**

*Editing by Fynn Gentle / www.fynngentle.com