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

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

Authenticity is the name of the game, and if you want to bring something to life, you can't go half idiot—you gotta commit 100%. In this episode, we dive into the art of going "all in" with our ideas, inspired by the worlds of improv and comedy. Our guest, Rick Lozano, shares his journey of merging music with leadership and talent development, illustrating how embracing our quirks can lead to genuine connections. We explore how leaders can foster creativity and innovation by flipping the script on "no" and asking the right questions instead. So, whether you’re leading a team or just trying to find your jam, remember: don’t just dip your toes—dive in headfirst and go full idiot!

Rick Lozano, a musical motivator with a knack for leadership, laid down some serious wisdom during our latest chat. The crux? If you’re trying to breathe life into your ideas, you can’t just dip your toes in the shallow end—you’ve got to go all in. Seriously, he dropped a line that stuck with me: 'You can’t go half idiot.' It’s kinda hilarious, but it’s also a brilliant reminder that commitment is key, whether you’re on stage at Second City or presenting your next big project at work. We talked about how leaders often squish creativity with a simple 'no' and how that can kill the vibe for anyone trying to contribute. Instead, Rick suggests slowing your 'no' and asking questions that help people think through their ideas more thoroughly. This approach not only makes your team feel valued but also fosters an environment where they can grow and nail their next pitch. We explored his journey from financial services to tech and finally to his current role as a speaker and consultant, emphasizing the importance of authenticity in leadership. Rick’s journey is proof that merging your passions—like music and leadership—can create a unique style that resonates with others. Seriously, he even wrote a song about it!

Takeaways:

• Going full idiot means putting yourself out there without holding back, embracing all your quirks.
• Leaders should adopt the 'slow your no' approach to foster creativity and encourage idea sharing.
• Authenticity allows you to integrate various parts of yourself, whether silly or serious, into your work.
• Don't underestimate the power of iterating and asking the right questions in leadership roles.

Links for today's show:

• Rick Lozano's Linked In Page

• https://ricklozano.com/

• Rick's Books

• Kent's Linked In Page

• The 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

Authenticity is the name of the game in leadership, and today we’re diving deep into what that really means. We're chatting with Kristine Engman, a total rockstar in building high-performing teams, and trust me, she’s got some solid gold nuggets of wisdom to share. We tackle the idea that being vulnerable as a leader can actually pack a punch in building trust and connection within your team—definitely easier said than done, right? Plus, we explore how knowing your team on a personal level sets the stage for a thriving environment where everyone feels valued and heard. So, if you've ever wondered how to step up your leadership game and create a killer team dynamic, you’re in for a treat!

Diving deep into the world of leadership, this episode serves up a hearty discussion on authenticity and vulnerability in the workplace, with Kristine Engman sharing her journey from intern to a powerhouse in the corporate world. We kick things off with a chat about the importance of showing up as your true self – a mantra that sounds easy but can be as tough as nails in practice. Kristine emphasizes that being a leader doesn't mean you have to put on a facade; instead, embracing vulnerability can foster genuine connections with your team. She shares personal anecdotes from her career where being authentic not only helped her navigate challenges but also encouraged her team to do the same. Authenticity, she argues, is the secret sauce to building a high-performing team, where everyone feels valued and understood.

As the conversation rolls on, we explore the nuances of leadership styles, particularly the balance between leading from a place of expertise versus managing teams in unfamiliar territory. Kristine recounts her experiences transitioning from a trading role into management, highlighting how stepping outside of her comfort zone allowed her to grow as a leader. She reflects on the significant lessons learned about trust and listening, pointing out how essential it is for leaders to genuinely understand their team members' strengths and weaknesses. This segment is packed with wisdom for anyone looking to improve their leadership game, stressing that the key to success lies in fostering open lines of communication and building relationships grounded in respect and understanding.

Finally, we wrap up with some practical advice for leaders and their supporters. Kristine stresses the importance of being available and approachable, highlighting that leaders should carve out time to listen to their teams – a move that can transform workplace dynamics. She suggests creating structured opportunities for feedback and connection that make team members feel heard and valued. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone aiming to elevate their leadership skills and cultivate a thriving team culture, reminding us all that in the end, leadership is about people, not just processes.

Takeaways:

• Being your authentic self is key in leadership, but it's easier said than done, right?
• Vulnerability as a leader can be super powerful, but many leaders shy away from it.
• Building high-performing teams starts with knowing your people—what they love and hate about their jobs.
• Communicating effectively means being available and ready to connect with your team members.
• Engaging your team in setting stretch goals can truly elevate performance beyond what they think they can achieve.
• A good leader balances short-term results with long-term vision, ensuring sustainable growth for the team.

Links:

• Kristine's Linked In Page
• Kent's Linked In Page

**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.**

Michael Stewart, for the past 25 years, has consulted to hundreds of organizations ranging from the Fortune 50 to small non-profits. He has partnered with numerous thought leaders and organizations including David Campbell, Marshall Goldsmith, Blanchard, CCL, Covey, Lominger, Korn/Ferry and others. He is known for data driven solutions that appeal to the strategic CEO, the strategic Human Resources leader, and the practitioner.

Michael Stewart’s team of Ph.D. consultants and industry leaders has conducted hundreds of executive leadership programs, coaching engagements, training courses and delivered more than 4.5 million assessments working with organizations in more than 90 countries. His holistic approach aligns the leadership and culture of an organization to better execute their strategic intent

Values are the real deal in organizations, and today, we're diving deep into how they explode in importance and truly shape the workplace vibe. We kick things off by busting the myth that values are just some fancy words hanging on a wall—they're about how we live and breathe them daily, holding ourselves and each other accountable. Our guest, Michael Stewart, takes us on a journey through his experiences, revealing how we can align these values with our organizational goals to create a thriving culture. We dig into the nitty-gritty of balancing individual coaching with the bigger picture of organizational strategy. So, whether you're a fresh leader trying to find your footing or a seasoned pro looking to re-energize your team, this episode is packed with insights to help you step up your game!

The conversation dives deep into the world of organizational values and their real impact on company culture. We kick things off with Michael Stewart, who brings years of experience in leadership development and talent management to the table. He emphasizes that values should not just be some fancy words framed on a wall; they need to be lived out and integrated into the everyday actions of employees. It’s all about accountability—how do organizations ensure that these values translate into real behaviors? We explore how to create clarity around these values, establishing them as the baseline for how things operate within the company. Michael shares anecdotes from his extensive career, illustrating how organizations like Citigroup have transformed their cultures by aligning their values with actions and expectations. This isn't just a fluffy conversation; it's about laying down the law on what behaviors are acceptable and what are not, ensuring everyone is on board and moving in the same direction.

We also touch on the importance of viewing leadership not just from an individual perspective but rather from a broader organizational lens. Michael shares insights into his methodology, including his 4R model, which breaks down leadership into Relationships, Roles, Responsibilities, and Results. This framework prompts leaders to assess their effectiveness not only in driving results but also in how they build and leverage relationships. It’s a fascinating discussion that challenges the traditional siloed approach to leadership development, pushing for a more integrated view that services the entire organization. As we wrap up, we reflect on how leaders can better understand their role in supporting organizational goals while simultaneously fostering the personal growth of their teams.

For anyone serious about leadership development, this episode is a goldmine of practical advice and insights. Michael’s experiences and the frameworks he discusses provide listeners with actionable takeaways that can be applied immediately in their own organizations. Plus, we sneak in some humor along the way, making this not just informative but also an enjoyable listen!

Takeaways:

• Organizational values are not just fancy words on a wall; they must be actively lived out and integrated into the culture.
• Being a leader means holding people accountable to the organization's values and ensuring everyone understands how they contribute to the bigger picture.
• Effective leaders balance individual development with organizational goals, ensuring that everyone is aligned and working toward common objectives.
• It's crucial for HR to connect their expertise in people management to the broader organizational strategy for greater influence and effectiveness.
• The 4R model emphasizes the importance of relationships, roles, responsibilities, and results in effective leadership and organizational alignment.
• A successful culture transformation requires aligning employee behaviors with strategic objectives while keeping the organization's unique context in mind.

Links referenced in this episode:

• work-effects.com
• Michael Stewart on Linked In
• Kent Kniebel on Linked In
• Promoted Leader Playbook

JD Slaughter is a People and Talent Leader based in Arlington, VA. He is currently building a high performing organization at Huge. Previously he worked as a Consultant at Korn Ferry and CEB in Washington, DC.

JD is all about driving growth through a strong culture and smart people strategies. He has a solid track record in every aspect of the People function and knows how to build, roll out and scale talent strategies that engage people and boost performance and growth.

We’re diving into the world of performance appraisals and shaking things up! You know the drill—those dreaded annual reviews that have everyone rolling their eyes? Well, we’re chatting with JD Slaughter from Huge about how they scrapped that whole shebang in favor of quarterly conversations. It’s all about keeping feedback fresh and relevant, so folks aren’t scrambling to remember what went down six months ago. JD spills the beans on how they’ve made these conversations part of the regular work flow, making it easier for managers and employees alike to connect, coach, and grow. Plus, we tackle the age-old question of how to measure performance without losing our minds—or our sanity—while keeping it all human and effective. So, kick back and tune in; you won't want to miss this!

JD Slaughter’s journey through the world of HR and organizational development is nothing short of enlightening. He shares candidly about his transition from external consulting to internal HR, revealing how he brought valuable insights from his past experiences into his role at Huge. One of the standout points in our conversation is the realization that, while every company might think they are unique, a lot of the challenges they face are shockingly similar. So, what does that mean for leaders navigating their own organizational waters? It means understanding that the principles of good leadership are universal, and it’s all about tailoring those principles to fit the unique culture of your organization.

JD talks about the importance of creating a feedback-rich environment, especially in a project-based company like Huge, where the nature of work can make traditional reviews feel disconnected. By establishing quarterly conversations, they’ve managed to embed feedback into the fabric of their work culture, ensuring that it’s not just an afterthought but a fundamental part of how teams operate. This approach not only enhances performance but also aligns individual goals with organizational objectives, making it a win-win for everyone involved. JD’s insights underline the necessity of flexibility and adaptability in leadership, encouraging current and aspiring leaders to embrace change and foster a culture of continuous learning and development.

Takeaways:

• Leaders should prioritize creating space for coaching and feedback, despite busy schedules.
• Annual reviews are often dreaded; moving to regular performance conversations can boost engagement.
• Feedback that is immediate and tied to recent projects is far more effective than year-end reviews.
• The key to improving leadership development lies in making it practical and embedded in daily work.
• Quarterly conversations help maintain performance discussions fresh, making feedback relevant and actionable.
• Organizations thrive when they create a culture of continuous improvement and open feedback loops.

Links for today's show:

• JD's Linked In Page
• Guest's website
• Huge Inc.
• Kent's Linked In Page
• The 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

Speaker Teresa Sande is CEO and Founder of Mirror Mirror Strategies, and author of Find Your Fierce: Interrupt Imposter Syndrome and Own your Success. Before publishing her book and launching her firm, she had a successful 25-year career with global corporate experience as an executive at companies like Intel, Capital One, Cargill, and UnitedHealth Group. She has dedicated her career to supporting and building effective leaders and helping top organizations identify, develop, and select their next top executives. Her holistic approach allows people to see themselves and their talents in a clear light and focus on the most important elements of their leadership journey.

From humble beginnings in Downtown Milwaukee, to an early career at Intel, to now owning her own business, Teresa has a unique perspective that resonates with audiences. Whether you are fresh out of school, or have been working in your industry for decades, you’ll leave Teresa’s session with a new nugget that will get you thinking.

As a speaker, Teresa focuses on topics of imposter syndrome, diversity and belonging, owning a success mindset, and transformational leadership. She is a frequent contributor to professional associations, research, and podcasts. Teresa splits her time between Minneapolis, MN and Palm Springs, CA, where she lives with her husband and pets and enjoys finding just about any way to be outside.

On today's episode of The Step UP: Leadership starts with leading yourself, and that’s our jam today. We dive into the fact that you can lead from any chair, whether you're flying solo or managing a massive crew—it's all about self-awareness and knowing your growth edges. Our guest, Teresa Sande, the brains behind Mirror Mirror Strategies, serves up some solid gold insights from her rich background in HR and executive coaching. We chat about the common traps leaders fall into, like thinking they’re special snowflakes or forgetting to celebrate their wins. So, if you're ready to step up your leadership game and unlock your potential, grab your headphones because we’re about to break it down!

Leadership doesn't just happen at the top; it starts with you leading yourself. In our latest chat, we dig into how every one of us can step up our game, whether we're running a team of one or a thousand. Teresa Sandy, our featured guest and founder of Mirror Mirror Strategies, emphasizes the importance of self-awareness and understanding your growth spots. We explore how the most successful leaders are those who recognize their blind spots and actively seek growth. It's all about knowing yourself first because if you can't lead yourself, how can you lead anyone else?

Takeaways:

• Effective leadership kicks off with self-leadership, so knowing yourself is key.
• Regardless of your title, you can lead from anywhere in your organization, even solo.
• Self-awareness is essential for leaders; understanding your growth edges is crucial for success.
• Successful leaders are those who recognize their blind spots and actively seek help when needed.
• Navigating leadership means adapting your approach as your responsibilities evolve over time.
• Compassionate leadership balances driving results while being clear and supportive to your team.

Links for today's show:

• Teresa Sande's Linked In Page
• Teresa's Website
• Find Your Fierce 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

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/kentkniebel/

• https://kent.coach/playbook

Al Dea is a speaker, entrepreneur, consultant, and podcast host. He advises leaders across industries to help them understand how the workplace is changing, and the implications for leading and growing people and organizations.

Drawing on his work advising the next generation of managers and leaders across diverse companies and industries ranging from Fortune 500 companies, non-profit organizations and emerging startups, Al speaks on topics around talent, culture, and leadership to inspire audiences to sense and respond to market changes and lead in more effective and people-first ways.

Al’s mission is to create a better world of work by working with leaders to create human-centric workplaces that unleash the potential and performance of their people. 

Developing your people isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s a crucial part of leadership that often gets sidelined. In this episode, we dive deep into the reality that while leaders might say their team members own their own development, the truth is, they often need support to truly thrive. Al joins me to chat about how many successful folks credit their achievements to the help they received along the way, and how leaders can create the right conditions for growth instead of just piling on more tasks. We also explore how the pressures of daily operations can make developing talent feel like an afterthought, even for well-meaning leaders. So grab your headphones and get ready for some insightful banter on how to prioritize people development without losing your mind in the process!

When we think about leadership, it’s easy to get bogged down in the day-to-day grind, right? Well, today’s dialogue with Al shines a light on the often-overlooked art of developing talent. Al starts by painting a stark picture: leaders are often given more responsibilities without the necessary support to prioritize people development. He brings to life the struggles of first-time leaders who might not even realize that fostering their team's growth is part of the gig. The discussion is rich with anecdotes and practical tips, from the importance of having regular career conversations to the necessity of creating an environment where team members feel safe to express their aspirations and challenges. Al stresses that while it might feel easier in the moment for leaders to handle tasks themselves, this short-term thinking can lead to long-term headaches. By investing time in developing others, leaders not only enhance their teams' capabilities but also free themselves up to tackle more strategic initiatives. This episode is a goldmine for anyone looking to elevate their leadership skills and create a thriving team culture.

Takeaways:

• Leaders need to own the development of their people, but they often forget this amidst their busy schedules.
• Success in organizations is rarely achieved solo; most successful individuals credit support from mentors and peers.
• Developing talent is not just a nice-to-have; it’s essential for long-term organizational success and sustainability.
• Leaders should regularly audit how they spend their time to prioritize people development amidst their many responsibilities.
• Investing time in developing others can lead to greater efficiency and effectiveness in the future, creating a win-win situation.
• Creating an environment where employees feel supported in their growth can significantly enhance overall team performance.

Links for today's episode:

• Al's Website
• Al's Linked-In Page
• Kent's Linked In Page
• Kent's 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

Corey Criswell is the Chief Leadership Officer at Adeption. She brings 25+ years of experience in the field of adult development honed by consulting with companies around the globe and in a $100B, Fortune 30 company. Today we're talking about harnessing AI for Leadership Development.

Change is the predominant theme of today's discourse, as we delve into the intricate dynamics of leadership amidst a rapidly evolving landscape influenced by technological advancements such as artificial intelligence. I have the distinct pleasure of engaging with Corey Criswell, an esteemed expert in leadership development whose insights are particularly pertinent for leaders navigating these unprecedented transitions. In our conversation, we explore the multifaceted nature of change, emphasizing the necessity for leaders to distinguish between technical challenges and adaptive challenges, a distinction that is critical for effective problem-solving. Corey shares her extensive experience, spanning various organizations, and sheds light on how we can better prepare leaders to embrace and drive change. Join us as we uncover strategies that empower leaders to step up their game in an era characterized by continuous transformation.

In our exploration of leadership development, we underscore the necessity for leaders to cultivate a robust framework, one that allows for self-reflection and a commitment to continuous improvement. The discussion highlights the significance of the adaptive leadership model introduced by Ron Heifetz and how it equips leaders with the tools to differentiate between technical challenges, which have clear solutions, and adaptive challenges that require innovative thinking and collaboration. Criswell emphasizes that the ability to engage stakeholders in meaningful dialogue is crucial for deriving actionable insights, thereby fostering a culture of shared responsibility and innovation within organizations. This nuanced understanding of leadership dynamics is imperative for leaders aspiring to thrive in an environment characterized by relentless change and complexity.

Takeaways:

• Embracing the unprecedented pace of change requires adaptive leadership strategies that involve collaboration among stakeholders.
• Leaders frequently misdiagnose adaptive challenges as technical challenges, which can hinder effective problem-solving.
• The integration of AI and technology into leadership development is essential for scaling effective learning experiences.
• Reflection on behavioral experiments can significantly enhance leadership performance by up to 23%.
• Blended leadership development combines in-person moments with ongoing support through AI-driven platforms to ensure sustained behavior change.
• The framework of 'Be conscious, be curious, be better' encourages leaders to connect personal challenges with professional growth opportunities.

Links referenced in this episode:

• Adeption.IO
• Corey Criswell on LinkedIn
• Kent Kniebel on Linked In
• 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.**

Steve is a story-shaping strategist and simulation architect—equal parts executive coach, instructional design expert, fantasy world-builder, and MMO tactician. By day, he coaches overworked tech leaders, design high-impact L&D systems, and architect enterprise learning tech stacks with surgical precision. By night, he authors things like superhero bars, criminal masterminds, and werewolf bartenders into richly imagined worlds.

Steve is the kind of person who can spot a broken LMS config and an underdeveloped character arc from a mile away. He thrives where structure meets creativity—whether it’s refining a coaching pitch deck or planning a D&D boss encounter. Practical, precise, and purpose-driven, Steve cares deeply about clarity, learning, and elevating both real-world teams and fictional misfits.

If there's a common thread? He makes complexity navigable—one well-designed experience at a time.

We’re diving deep into the world of leadership development, and trust me, it’s all about moving from those lightbulb moments to actually making changes stick. Our main takeaway? Just be aware of your habits. Seriously, don’t freak out or try to fix everything on the spot—just notice what you’re doing. This episode, I’ve got my buddy Steve Semmler hanging out with me, and we’re chatting about how awareness can pave the way to better habits. We’ll explore practical strategies like accountability pods and nifty apps that keep you on track, plus how to blend insights with real-world practice to truly up your leadership game. So, buckle up, because we’re about to get real about making those leadership skills second nature!

Leadership is all about evolving, right? In this chat, we dive deep into the nitty-gritty of turning insights into habits. Our guest, Steve Semmler, brings some serious knowledge from his years in leadership development, emphasizing that simply knowing what to do isn’t enough. It’s about getting those insights to stick like glue in our daily grind. We explore how awareness is the first step—just noticing our usual habits without judging them opens the door to real change. It’s like catching yourself munching on snacks while binging your favorite show; once you see it, you can choose to swap those chips for something a bit more nutritious. By breaking down the process into manageable bites, we can turn those insights into habits that help us level up our leadership game. So grab a comfy seat and let’s get into how we can turn that knowledge into action without breaking a sweat!

We also chat about the role of simulations in leadership training. Steve spills the beans on how these simulations aren’t just fancy role plays; they’re practical, real-world applications that help leaders practice their skills in a safe environment. It’s like playing video games to improve your reflexes before hitting the field—only this time, the stakes are about leading teams and making impactful decisions. The conversation highlights how effective simulations can mirror real-life scenarios, making the learning experience relevant and engaging. We talk about the importance of blending theory with practice, ensuring that leaders walk away not just with knowledge but with tools they can use immediately. If you’re keen to see how to effectively build habits and create a culture of continuous improvement in your team, this episode is a goldmine!

In addition, we touch on the challenges of establishing new habits and why some skills stick while others fade away like last week’s leftovers. Steve reveals that technical skills often get absorbed quicker than those more nuanced leadership behaviors that require a shift in mindset. It’s like learning to ride a bike; once you get it, it’s hard to forget. But when it comes to giving constructive feedback or navigating tricky interpersonal dynamics, that’s where the real work happens. We wrap things up with some solid advice for leaders and those supporting them—hint: it’s all about practice, patience, and keeping it real. Whether you’re a seasoned leader or just starting out, there’s something in here for everyone to take away. So tune in, take notes, and let's get ready to step up our leadership game!

Takeaways:

• Be aware of your usual habits without judging yourself; awareness is the first step to change.
• Practice little bits of leadership skills consistently to build effective habits over time.
• Use accountability pods with peers to encourage each other in developing new leadership habits.
• Integrate simulations into leadership training to practice skills in relevant, real-world scenarios.
• Focus on spreading out learning over time rather than cramming it into single events for better retention.
• Remember, developing leadership skills takes time; little efforts consistently lead to significant changes.

Links referenced in this episode:

• KentCoachPlaybook
• trainerswarehouse.com
• learningsim.com

**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

Guest, Cecilia Stanton Adams, CEO, Organization and Leadership Development consultant at the Diversity Institute and Stanton Adams consulting deep dive today into the shift from "culture fit" to "culture contribution," and let me tell you, it's a game-changer! Instead of just asking how folks fit into the existing mold, we're all about figuring out how every individual can help propel the organization into the future. We've got the amazing Cecilia Stanton Adams joining us to chat about leading inclusively, especially during these times when diversity efforts are facing some serious pushback. We'll explore how creating an environment where everyone can thrive isn't just a nice-to-have—it's essential for success. So grab your favorite beverage, kick back, and let’s get into how to build better workplaces together!

Cecilia Stanton Adams brings a wealth of experience navigating the complex landscape of diversity, equity, and inclusion within organizations. In this enlightening discussion with Kent Kniebel, she shares her journey from New York to Minnesota, driven by a passion for fostering inclusive environments. The duo explores the evolution of DEI terminology, transitioning from a focus on quotas to a comprehensive understanding of cultural contributions. They tackle the pushback against DEI initiatives, particularly in light of recent political climates, and how leaders can adapt their strategies to maintain momentum. At the core of their conversation is the belief that true leadership hinges on understanding and valuing the diverse backgrounds of team members. Cecilia emphasizes the importance of psychological safety in the workplace, where team members feel secure enough to voice their opinions without fear of retaliation. As they dissect the five drivers of a People First performance framework, listeners gain actionable insights into creating a more inclusive culture that not only empowers individuals but also propels organizations toward sustainable success.

Takeaways:

• Shifting from culture fit to culture contribution is vital for future growth.
• It's all about encouraging individual contributions that align with organizational goals.
• Creating a culture of belonging hinges on psychological safety and trust within teams.
• Organizations must prioritize diversity, equity, and inclusion to thrive in today's market.

Episode Links:

• Don't Retreat—Redesign: The New Blueprint for Inclusive Leadership - webinar on May 22, 2025
• Cecilia's Linked In Page
• https://www.stantonadams.com/
• Kent's Linked In Page
• The 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