Dr. Anna Kallschmidt, a trailblazer in industrial organizational psychology, sheds light on the unwritten rules of work in our latest episode. She's renowned for her pioneering research into how social class and neurodivergence impact workplace dynamics. Dr. Kallschmidt's insights reveal the often invisible barriers individuals from low-income and neurodivergent backgrounds face and how these barriers can persist despite upward mobility. Her upcoming book aims to address these critical issues, providing strategies for fostering healthy and sustainable work cultures.

We navigate the complexities of unspoken communication in the business world, particularly at the intersection of neurodivergence and class. Dr. Kallschmidt explains how literal interpretations of communication can cause misunderstandings in corporate settings. She offers valuable strategies to improve collaboration among teams, emphasizing the importance of recognizing diverse communication styles. The conversation expands to cover cultural dynamics in the workplace, the impact of individual versus collective mindsets, and how a balanced perspective can prevent the pitfalls of overly competitive environments.

Mentorship takes center stage as we explore the SPIRIT framework—Specific, Personal, Impactful, Relevant, Inclusive, and Timely—as a tool for personal and professional growth. Through inspiring stories, we witness the transformative power of being seen and heard, amplified by effective mentorship. Highlighting the pivotal role of Dr. DeSantis in shaping a mentee's career, we examine how true leadership prioritizes personal development over administrative tasks. The episode wraps up with a reflection on AI's role in changing workplace dynamics, underscoring the enduring value of human connection and guidance in the evolving professional landscape.

Dr. Kallschmidt

Discover the secrets to mastering inclusive leadership through feedback with our special guest, Ama Agyapong, famously known as "that inclusion lady." Imagine transforming your workplace culture by harnessing the power of feedback to boost productivity and engagement. Ama takes us on her personal journey from being an outsider to becoming an expert in creating feedback-driven environments. Her unique insights from her time as an EEOC investigator reveal the incredible impact of effective feedback on team dynamics and organizational success.

Explore the nuances of communication that foster an inclusive atmosphere. We discuss valuable tools like the DISC assessment, helping to tailor interactions by recognizing individual work styles. Ama shares practical techniques and frameworks, such as the Socratic method and the five whys, to elevate questioning skills, particularly in technical fields. Expect to learn strategic ways to avoid defensiveness and promote open dialogues, enhancing collaboration in your teams.

In our final segment, we delve into actionable strategies for impactful recognition and appreciation. Ama introduces frameworks like the "Listen, Validate, and Formulate" method and the IRTI model to ensure feedback is not just heard but transformed into growth opportunities. Highlighting cultural and generational differences, we discuss transitioning from traditional leadership roles to more coaching-focused approaches. Through personal anecdotes and expert advice, Ama illustrates how conveying belief in a person’s potential can inspire tremendous growth, leaving you equipped to foster a nurturing environment for your team. Join us to uncover these transformative insights and become a catalyst for positive change within your organization.

Inclusion Enterprises

Christopher Filipiak, a former engineer turned sales consultant, brings a refreshing perspective to the crossroads of engineering and sales in our latest episode. As he shares his evolution from Ford Motor Company engineer to a guiding force for CEOs, Christopher reveals how the principles of Lean Six Sigma have seamlessly translated into his unique sales strategy. With an emphasis on reducing waste and enhancing processes, he helps leaders align their business strategies with desired outcomes, showcasing the power of system sophistication. Christopher's journey is a testament to the transformative potential of applying engineering mindset to the sales domain, making it an insightful listen for any leader seeking to optimize their business operations.

We also explore the psychological hurdles technical leaders often face with sales, unraveling societal narratives that contribute to this discomfort. Christopher sheds light on the SPIRIT framework, which has been pivotal in his coaching approach, driving both personal and professional growth. His collaboration with coach Tristan has not only honed his skills but also spurred significant business development by fostering authenticity and alignment with personal values. Highlighting the importance of recognizing a coach's values and sacrifices, Christopher's mission empowers CEOs to embrace their true selves and master financial competencies, crafting a company culture deeply rooted in these principles.

Can corporate culture be intentionally constructed to align with organizational goals, or is it an elusive concept that simply evolves? Our latest Voices in Leadership episode promises to enlighten you with insights from Matthew Person of Town Square Advisors. With a career that spans from the sports industry to investment banking and now to strategic advising, Matthew shares his valuable experiences and the lessons he's distilled in his book, "Culture of Alignment." Join us as we explore the Square Management System and the necessity of a bespoke cultural framework that resonates with a company’s distinct values and needs. Matthew's perspective challenges the conventional view of culture as an undefined ethos, providing a roadmap for leaders looking to foster a cohesive and purpose-driven organizational environment.

Furthermore, we tackle the intriguing notion of intentional versus unintentional culture. Matthew delves into how intentional cultural design can lead to streamlined operations and employee alignment, addressing the skepticism that surrounds this approach, particularly in vast, complex organizations. We discuss the risks of blindly emulating successful companies without grasping their unique cultural elements. This episode inspires leaders to move beyond mere imitation, advocating for a strategic cultural alignment that truly supports growth, engagement, and success across all levels of a business. Tune in to discover how intentional culture can become a foundation for achieving organizational excellence.

To learn more, see Townsquare Advisors

What drives someone to leave everything behind in search of freedom? We unravel the gripping tale of Nikki Bailu, an accomplished podcaster and immigrant from the Middle East, who shares his family's daring escape from post-revolutionary Iran to the bustling city of Toronto. With a Molotov cocktail incident marking a pivotal moment in his family's history, Nikki's journey underscores the transformative power of freedom and entrepreneurship. His story shines a light on how these experiences fueled his passion for supporting business leaders as they strive to actualize their dreams and champion societal progress.

Sales can be a daunting mountain for heart-driven thought leaders, but what if it could be an act of love instead? We explore the common struggles faced by consultants and coaches who fear coming across as insincere when promoting their work. By shifting their mindset, they can connect more deeply with potential clients and truly serve their needs. We offer a fresh perspective on selling, one that encourages professionals to embrace their value and view sales as a service, not just a transaction. This transformative approach promises not only personal growth but also substantial business success.

Mentorship and authenticity form the backbone of building lasting relationships, and we showcase how they can transform lives and businesses alike. Through compelling stories of mentorship, hear how Mark Von Muser's guidance helped turn a business from five figures to seven. The episode showcases the immense value of loyalty and personalized recognition, with meaningful gestures that go beyond quick fixes. For those eager to empower purposeful action and build genuine connections, this episode is brimming with insights and stories that inspire a fresh approach to leadership and personal growth.

Ready to transform financial data into strategic growth? Join us as we uncover the journey of Ken LaCroix, from traditional CFO roles to co-founding Insightful Partners. Ken reveals how focusing on the right business metrics, beyond the standard accounting reports, can drive sustainable success. Listen in as we discuss the power of effective visualization in transforming complex financial information into actionable insights for business owners. Ken also shares his unique approach to maintaining clarity and focus during virtual meetings, ensuring that critical metrics are not overshadowed by data overload.

Explore the art of optimizing workflow with Ken's insights on creating effective visual dashboards. Discover how to highlight critical metrics using color-coded indicators, and learn how understanding timing discrepancies can enhance decision-making and resource allocation. We tackle the challenges that small businesses face in managing resources, suggesting that flexibility, agility, and strategic use of technology and temporary help are key to navigating these hurdles effectively. Ken's perspectives offer a fresh take on how critical data can be streamlined for better business operations.

Dive into the integration of accounting and technology, where we discuss the transformative potential of AI and automation in streamlining processes and enhancing decision-making. Ken shares his thoughts on collecting and storing data for future technological advancements. We also explore the SPIRIT of Acknowledgement framework, focusing on authentic leadership and specific recognition to cultivate an ethical work environment. Through Ken's personal stories, we learn how servant leadership can boost confidence and foster a supportive culture, ultimately driving business growth and innovation. Tune in for an episode filled with insights that can reshape your approach to finance and leadership.

Uncover the secrets to mastering employee retention and enhancing your leadership skills with Chason Hecht, CEO of Retensa and a leading authority on workforce development. Gain valuable insights into the evolution of microcultures and how understanding factors like gender, generation, and organizational hierarchy can dramatically improve retention strategies. Discover how Chason champions the use of predictive analytics to address employee turnover and create a more harmonious organizational culture.

Imagine a workplace immune to the "company cancer" of apathy. This episode reveals how symptoms like ghosting and absenteeism are manifestations of a deeper disengagement issue, and highlights the critical role leaders play in reversing this trend. Learn about the concept of manufactured apathy and the delicate balance between craftsmanship and industrialization, as well as the importance of aligning talent acquisition with candidates who are truly passionate about their roles. Just as importantly, find out how respectful offboarding can preserve organizational morale, even during challenging transitions.

Step into the 90s with a story from a family-owned textile business that illuminates the enduring power of gratitude and collaboration. Chason shares how recognizing and valuing contributions can reduce turnover rates by an incredible 68%. We emphasize the transformative potential of impactful conversations and the inspirational power of shared stories, urging listeners to embrace gratitude and humility in their leadership journeys. Whether you're leading a large enterprise or a small team, this episode promises to leave you with fresh strategies for fostering growth, appreciation, and a collective sense of purpose.

Follow Up Links:

https://retensa.com/voices-in-leadership-podcast-presentation/

Rob Matzkin, a veteran in leadership development and behavioral transformation, joins us to share his transformative journey from the family glass business to becoming a distributor of architectural glass and metal. Rob's story is not only about professional growth but also about navigating the intricate family dynamics that come with a family-run business. He candidly recounts the challenges of maintaining harmony and the pivotal moments that led him to pursue a different path. Our conversation reveals how influential resources like Landmark Education and Tony Robbins' programs inspired Rob's personal growth, emphasizing the importance of shedding ego and fostering trust to become a more effective leader.

Amid the chaos of modern leadership challenges, Rob brings to light the significance of managing burnout through routines and focus. Drawing on Nobel Prize-winning research, he discusses how emotional decision-making often guides rational analysis and how structured task management can alleviate stress and cognitive overload. By minimizing interruptions and prioritizing significant tasks, leaders can achieve a state of flow, enhancing their productivity and satisfaction. Rob's insights provide a roadmap for those seeking to transform burnout into a breakthrough, focusing on routine and sleep as foundational pillars for peak performance.

The episode also explores the art of embracing chaos and finding purpose. We discuss the importance of deep work and the impact of flow on burnout, alongside the necessity of thriving amid the uncertainties of entrepreneurship. Rob shares his bespoke approach to client interactions and marketing strategies, revealing how entrepreneurs can adapt to rapid changes. Additionally, we celebrate the empathic leadership of individuals like Joe, whose contributions have been instrumental in shaping the Bond Summit. Her empathy, grit, and positivity resonate with the summit's core values, fostering purpose-driven business practices. The spirit of gratitude underpins our conversation, acknowledging the transformative power of purpose-driven leadership.

Ever wonder what it takes to shift from a corporate powerhouse to a beacon of authentic leadership? Simon, affectionately dubbed the Rocket Shaman, shares her transformative journey with us. Her experiences with significant health challenges, from autoimmune disorders to cancer, prompted a radical reevaluation of her life's direction, steering her from traditional executive roles at Amex and JP Morgan toward a holistic approach that harmonizes intuition with leadership. Prepare to be inspired as Simon reveals the transformative power of energy audits and nervous system liberation tools, encouraging us all to embrace authenticity, emotional intelligence, and genuine interactions in our fast-paced world.

Simon's story is a testament to the power of strength-based, authentic leadership, particularly valued by Gen Z, and how it can revolutionize team dynamics and employee satisfaction. She candidly shares how overcoming a health crisis led to remarkable personal and professional growth, facilitated by healing generational trauma and expressing gratitude. Learn about the pivotal role of mentors like Patrick McAvenalee and Grandma Blumenstein, who helped Simon unlock her potential, emphasizing intrinsic value and harmony with the earth. These narratives highlight the importance of unlearning inherited expectations and embracing one's true essence.

Join us as we explore the concept of transmutation design, a transformative methodology that awakens individuals and organizations from unconscious routines to clarity and purpose. Simon's journey underscores the importance of embracing one's true self and gifts, especially in a world burdened by chronic illnesses and emotional trauma. Her insights into healing and leadership, inspired by indigenous wisdom, offer a roadmap for living a healthier, more human-centered life. Don't miss this enriching conversation that challenges conventional leadership paradigms and invites a more authentic approach to life and work.

therocketshaman.com

Unlock the secrets to thriving leadership and intentional living with our special guest, Larry Onan, an acclaimed author and development consultant with over five decades of experience in fundraising. Larry shares not only the essential groundwork for effective fundraising but also how adopting an intentional attitude can significantly transform both personal growth and leadership. From a forgotten $2 million pledge to the nuances of donor motivation, this episode promises to inspire you with stories of resilience, collaboration, and the power of choosing to thrive.

Reflecting on the initial stages of fund development, I recount the unexpected challenges and valuable lessons learned. Imagine being tasked with resurrecting a long-forgotten pledge with the help of a friend who knows more about submarines than fundraising! Together, we navigated the terrain of pure fundraising versus development, embracing risk-taking and innovation as guiding principles. This journey not only forged meaningful partnerships but also demonstrated the true essence of fundraising as a collaborative partnership rather than a mere transaction.

Life’s twists and turns mirror the realities of fundraising, and this episode explores how staying intentional and focused can lead to meaningful change. Hear how aligning charitable contributions with personal values can transform lives, from initiatives in the Philippines to your own backyard. Larry and I emphasize the importance of partnership, complementary skills, and mutual support, sharing a narrative where collaboration leads to greater achievements than any individual effort could. Join us for this engaging discussion, packed with insights and personal anecdotes, and discover how you can make a lasting impact through intentional leadership and giving.