Rethink Change

Transforming Organizations Through Conversation with Hilary Ware


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What if the secret to lasting change wasn’t bold new strategies, but a return to the basics: clarity, focus, and genuine human connection?


In business, it’s tempting to think transformation happens through sweeping initiatives and complex processes. But the leaders who succeed don’t try to change everything at once. They know that real impact comes from slowing down, listening more than you speak, and building cultures where values guide decisions and accountability fuels performance.


Hilary Ware has seen it across industries and boardrooms: when leaders overcomplicate change, they lose people. But when they keep it simple, set clear expectations, communicate consistently, and focus on what not to do, the organization finds its footing. 


Her approach is equal parts rigor and empathy. By spending more time talking with employees, appreciating the chaos they face, and aligning around enduring values, Hilary shows that transformation doesn’t have to feel overwhelming. It just has to feel human.


CHAPTERS: 

00:00 Introduction to Change Management

00:35 Meet Hillary Ware: The Change Whisperer

00:59 Hillary's Career Journey

01:34 Transforming BP: The Outsourcing Journey

04:03 Challenges and Strategies at Bristow Helicopters

05:58 Lessons Learned in Change Management

12:31 Personal and Corporate Transformation

16:32 The Importance of Values and Behaviors in Organizations

37:38 Final Thoughts and Reflections


Topics Discussed: 

  • Why simplicity, purpose, and accountability drive sustainable change
  • Connecting values to clear, observable behaviors that set expectations
  • The importance of meeting employees where they are in times of transition
  • How communication anchors the change management process
  • Why empathy and clarity are critical in retaining and engaging employees
  • How disciplined leadership means knowing what not to do
  • The role of enduring values in shaping culture and guiding long-term success


Connect with Hilary Ware: 

  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hilary-ware/


About Rethink Change:


When growth is stagnant, culture’s a mess, the brand’s adrift, and the board wants miracles by Monday, Pennebaker’s podcast, Rethink Change, is where innovators and disruptors go for clarity.


Hosted by Founder Ward Pennebaker and President Matt Pennebaker, this podcast delivers sharp insights from battle-tested leaders who’ve navigated chaos and turned challenge into momentum. You’ll hear from executives from startups to global behemoths, from a wide range of industries. No fluff. All results. These conversations uncover what actually works, so you can think differently and act smarter.


Get Connected with Rethink Change:

  • Website: https://www.pennebaker.com/podcast
  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/pennebaker/ 
  • Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pennebakerbrand
  • Bluesky: https://bsky.app/profile/pennebaker.bsky.social
  • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/pennebakeragency/


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Rethink ChangeBy Pennebaker