The Way I Heard It with Mike Rowe 436: Garry Ridge—Any Dumbass Can Do It
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May 13, 2025 Garry Ridge, former CEO of WD-40, shares insights from his leadership journey that transformed the company into a beloved brand. He discusses the importance of cultivating a positive corporate culture and employee engagement, likening it to nurturing ingredients for optimal growth. Ridge emphasizes the significance of trust and psychological safety in teams, especially post-COVID-19. He also touches on overcoming fear in leadership and the value of creating lasting memories over merely selling products, all while encouraging aspiring leaders with wisdom from his book.
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Keys to Positive Company Culture
- A company culture where employees belong, matter, and have choices creates a valued, positive environment.
- 69% of U.S. workers are disengaged, highlighting the need for leaders to foster such cultures.
Lockdown Engagement Success Story
- During COVID, WD-40 kept 97% employee engagement by focusing on safety and community.
- Virtual events and a clear purpose helped maintain culture despite lockdown challenges.
Brave Culture Building Advice
- To build a great culture, be brave to reward good behavior and address toxic elements quickly.
- Culture growth takes consistent effort over time; it is simple but not easy.