#296 Rising from Legacy: How Culture Fuels Transformation

Dr. Darren welcomes the remarkable Jane Millard, CEO of Turtle, a 100-year-old family-owned business that has successfully evolved over the years. The discussion delves into Jane's captivating background, from dancer and choreographer to leader in the electrical distribution industry, focusing on how company culture fuels transformation in response to digital disruptions. Jane shares her insights on generational leadership, the importance of trust in navigating significant change, and how harnessing discomfort can lead to innovation—especially in a rapidly changing world influenced by AI technologies and energy management needs. This episode is packed with invaluable lessons on maintaining relevance in business across generations. ## Takeaways - **Cultural Transformation**: Emphasize the importance of building trust and collaboration within an organization to break down silos and drive change. - **Embrace Discomfort**: Cultivate a comfort with discomfort as a necessity for innovation and adaptability in business operations. - **Long-term Vision**: Prioritize longer-term thinking over short-term profits, vital for maintaining stability and trust in a family-run business. - **Develop Leadership**: Invest in nurturing internal talent and encourage senior leaders to prepare succession plans for future leadership roles. - **Harness Technology**: Leverage emerging technologies, such as AI, as tools to enhance operational efficiency and empower decision-making processes. ## Chapters - **00:00 - Introduction** Overview of the podcast and the theme of digital transformation. - **01:10 - Meet Jane Millard** Jane shares her incredible background story and journey into Turtle. - **05:40 - Evolution of Turtle** Discussion on Turtle's century-long transformation through various technological shifts. - **10:30 - Importance of Culture** Jane emphasizes how workplace culture drives successful transformation. - **15:25 - Adapting to Change** Insights on finding comfort in discomfort and adapting to industry challenges. - **20:00 - The Role of AI** The impact of AI on energy management and aspects of business operations. - **25:15 - Long-Term Planning** How Turtle maintains a focus on long-term goals over short-term gains. - **30:10 - Nurturing Talent** Jane discusses the importance of internal leadership development. - **35:40 - The Human Element** Exploring the role of trust and relationships in modern business environments. - **40:00 - Conclusion** Wrap-up and key reflections from the conversation.

Organizations grapple with adapting to the intertwining forces of technology, culture, and leadership. One core theme emerges: transformation isn't just about technology—it's fundamentally about people and relationships. Companies, like the one often referred to as Turtle, reveal that maintaining a legacy while embedding new innovations is more challenging and meaningful than ever. Let's explore the dimensions of this ongoing transformation journey, focusing on culture, technology, and leadership.

 The Foundation of Culture: Building Trust 

Culture is the invisible thread that weaves through every organization. It transcends quarterly reports and profit margins; it's about trust, relationships, and shared values. A thriving organizational culture often resembles a close-knit community or family, where every member feels valued and respected. To cultivate this environment, it’s essential to actively foster communication and empathy among team members. When people trust one another, they are more likely to collaborate effectively, share knowledge, and drive innovation. 

To break down barriers and foster a sense of community, organizations must implement practices that encourage open dialogue—even in times of challenge. Regular team-building exercises, transparent communications, and mechanisms for employees to voice concerns can significantly strengthen trust. Additionally, encouraging feedback from all levels helps dismantle hierarchical silos that can stifle collaboration. In a digital economy, where rapid adaptation is crucial, a strong, trust-based culture becomes a competitive advantage. 

 Harnessing Technology for Transformation

Technology has become an omnipresent force in business, ushering in the era of digital transformation. However, it is essential to remember that at its core, technology should enhance human interaction rather than replace it. Businesses that prioritize integrating technology with human values foster environments conducive to innovation. Adopting tools that enable better connectivity—such as customer relationship management (CRM) systems or data analytics platforms—empowers teams to work smarter and more cohesively.

Moreover, the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) in various sectors signifies another layer of this transformation. Companies can leverage AI not only for operational efficiencies but also to deepen customer understanding and enhance service delivery. However, organizations must approach AI ethically and align it with their core values, ensuring it serves the greater good rather than isolating employees. By nurturing a symbiotic relationship between technology and human insight, organizations can navigate the complexities of modern business landscape effectively. 

 Leadership in Times of Change

Effective leadership is paramount in guiding organizations through periods of transformation. A leader's role extends beyond merely setting the vision; it involves actively engaging employees at every step of the journey. Demonstrating vulnerability and openness can humanize leadership, making it more relatable and fostering an atmosphere where employees feel motivated to contribute their best. 

As organizations grow and scale, preparing the next generation of leaders becomes essential. Leaders must cultivate talent within their teams, focusing on developing the capabilities of potential successors. This practice not only reinforces the organization's commitment to its employees but ensures a smooth transition of knowledge and skills across generations. By grounding leadership practices in mentorship and empowerment, organizations can create a sustainable leadership pipeline that remains loyal to the values and mission of the company.

 Emphasizing Long-term Vision

The journey of digital transformation is not solely technological—it's a deeply human endeavor. The stories of companies committed to fostering trust, embracing innovation, and developing their leaders inspire us all. Transitioning into a modern-age enterprise requires a holistic perspective that appreciates the intricate relationships between culture, technology, and leadership. 

As businesses navigate this complex landscape, let us commit to fostering environments where collaboration, empathy, and ethical practices are the foundation of success. Organizations that prioritize long-term vision over short-term gains will not only adapt but thrive in the face of change.

For those looking to explore these topics further or connect with like-minded professionals, consider joining discussions on digital transformation within your networks or sharing insights with peers. Together, we can embrace the complexities of our evolving business landscape and leverage change as a catalyst for growth and unity.