Are you tired of workplaces that leave employees burned out and disengaged? In this transformative episode, host Jason Rigby sits down with Dr. Rob Lion, a renowned workplace culture expert, strategist, and professor at Idaho State University, to explore a bold idea: workplaces can—and should—energize employees rather than drain them.

Dr. Lion introduces his revolutionary human-centered leadership framework, challenging outdated "command-and-control" models with a fresh approach rooted in vulnerability, well-being, and trust. Whether you're an emerging leader or a C-suite veteran, this episode delivers actionable strategies to rethink leadership, boost team performance, and create a workplace that fuels the human spirit.

Get ready to ditch burnout culture and unlock the secrets to sustainable, inspiring leadership!

🎙️ Featured Guest: Dr. Rob Lion

Title: Strategist & Professor, Black River Performance Management
Bio: With over two decades of experience in human resource development and organizational behavior, Dr. Rob Lion is a trailblazer in workplace transformation. As a professor at Idaho State University and founder of Black River Performance Management, he empowers organizations—spanning tech, education, and government—to prioritize people over processes. A self-described Taoist, Rob fuses psychology, strategy, and real-world insights to help leaders thrive. Off the clock, he’s an avid fly fisherman and mountain biker.
Mission: "Work should fuel the human spirit, not drain it."
Website: blackriverpm.com

🗝️ Key Topics Covered 1. Human-Centered Leadership Unveiled

The Fall of "Tough Guy" Leadership: Why authoritarian styles are losing relevance in modern workplaces.
Vulnerability as Strength: How embracing authenticity and openness builds trust and fosters stronger teams.
The Employee Empowerment Shift: Today’s workforce has options—they’re curating their lives, not just clocking in.

2. Fueling the Human Spirit

Dr. Lion’s Core Philosophy: Work shouldn’t leave you running on empty—it should leave your tank half full.
Psychology of Well-Being: The trifecta of thriving—competence, autonomy, and connection—and how leaders can cultivate them.
Practical Takeaways: Small changes leaders can implement to boost morale and energy.

3. Overcoming Leadership Obstacles

New Leader Struggles: The biggest pitfalls—ignorance of blind spots and fear of asking questions.
Consistency is King: Why predictable leadership (even with quirks) outshines erratic, emotional swings.
Building Resilience: Tips for staying steady amid workplace chaos.

4. Leader Well-Being in a Grind Culture

The Trap to Avoid: The unsustainable “Monster-drinking, Tinder-swiping, 15-hour-day” leader stereotype.
Self-Care as Strategy: How prioritizing personal well-being enhances leadership effectiveness.
Setting the Tone: Why healthy leaders inspire healthier teams.

5. Advice for Aspiring Leaders

Should You Step Up? Yes—but stay curious, humble, and lighthearted.
Onboarding Done Right: Integrate new leaders through culture, not just manuals.
Top Tip: Ask questions relentlessly—it’s the fastest path to growth.

💡 Actionable Leadership Insights

Audit Your Leadership Style: Are you draining or energizing your team? Reflect and adjust.
Prioritize Connection: Build trust through vulnerability and consistent communication.
Model Well-Being: Show your team that self-care isn’t optional—it’s essential.
Ask More Questions: Curiosity beats arrogance every time.

🌟 Why This Episode Matters

In a world where burnout is the norm, Dr. Rob Lion’s human-centered leadership approach offers a lifeline for leaders and teams alike. This episode isn’t just a conversation—it’s a roadmap to creating workplaces where people thrive, not just survive. Packed with evidence-based insights and real-world wisdom, it’s a must-listen for anyone serious about ranking at the top of their leadership game.

🔗 Connect with Dr. Rob Lion

Website: blackriverpm.com
Organization: Black River Performance Management
Mission: Building sustainable, people-first workplaces that elevate performance and well-being.

📌 Subscribe & Share

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Share: Tag us on social media with #HumanCenteredLeadership and spread the word.

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