
At The Table with Patrick Lencioni
Real conversations and practical advice for everyday leaders. Sit across the table from one of the foremost experts in leadership and business. In his simple and approachable style, Pat tackles every topic related to the world of work (and some that aren’t). From culture to teamwork to building world-class organizations, Pat brings his wisdom, humor, and insight together to provide actionable advice for leaders everywhere.
For more on Pat and the Table Group, visit https://www.tablegroup.com
Latest episodes

17 snips
May 13, 2025 • 36min
242. Hard Times with Dave Ramsey: The Bright Side of Adversity
In a compelling discussion, financial expert Dave Ramsey shares his wisdom on turning adversity into opportunity. He recounts how his own bankruptcy became a catalyst for a career dedicated to helping others manage financial crises. They emphasize the need for values-based leadership during tough times and highlight the five stages of business growth each presenting unique challenges. Ramsey also encourages embracing failure as a stepping stone to resilience, advocating for a mindset that transforms obstacles into meaningful growth.

10 snips
Apr 29, 2025 • 20min
241. Beware of Success
What happens when the external validation of your success conflicts with your internal values and purpose? In episode 241 of At The Table, Pat Lencioni and Cody Thompson explore the hidden dangers of traditional success metrics. They also discuss how businesses and individuals can lose their way when they chase recognition that doesn’t align with their original purpose.Topics explored in this episode: (0:40) The Michelin Star Story* How a small restaurant in Italy gave up its Michelin star to stay true to its identity.(4:51) Aligning Success With Intentions* Why companies lose their way when they follow external expectations.* The importance of anchoring decisions to the question: "Why do we exist?"(8:46) Success and Personal Growth* Arthur Brooks' wisdom about valuing the process over outcomes.* How personal definitions of success change over time, especially in creative fields.(13:02) The Cost of Chasing the Wrong Goals* How woundedness can drive people to seek approval through achievements.* Reflections on athletes and leaders who chose integrity over external trophies.* Why true success means being proud of who you're becoming, not just what you achieve.(17:53) Staying Grounded Amid Temptation* Lessons from early Table Group decisions to resist the IPO craze.* The ultimate call to stick to your "why" for lasting fulfillment.Books mentioned in this episode: * Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara.* The Advantage: Why Organizational Health Trumps Everything Else In Business by Patrick Lencioni.* From Strength to Strength by Arthur Brooks.This episode of At The Table with Patrick Lencioni is brought to you by The Table Group: https://www.tablegroup.com. We teach leaders how to make work more effective and less dysfunctional. We also help their employees be more fulfilled and less miserable. At The Table is a podcast that lives at the connection between work life, leadership, organizational health, and culture. Subscribe on Apple Podcasts (https://apple.co/4hJKKSL), Spotify (https://spoti.fi/4l1aop0), and YouTube (https://bit.ly/At-The-Table-YouTube). Follow Pat Lencioni on https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrick-lencioni-orghealth and http://www.youtube.com/@PatrickLencioniOfficial. Connect with Cody Thompson https://www.linkedin.com/in/cody-thompson-a5918850. Be sure to check out our other podcast, The Working Genius Podcast with Patrick Lencioni, on Apple Podcasts (https://apple.co/4iNz6Yn), Spotify (https://spoti.fi/4iGGm8u), and YouTube (https://bit.ly/Working-Genius-YouTube). Let us know your feedback via podcast@tablegroup.com. This episode was produced by Story On Media: https://www.storyon.co.

31 snips
Apr 15, 2025 • 32min
240. A Different Look at DOGE
The conversation dives into the struggle for government efficiency, showcasing the need for accountability and waste reduction. Drawing parallels between the federal government and private sector teams, they highlight challenges faced in both worlds. A poignant storage unit story illustrates the emotional complexities of letting go. The hosts emphasize that even healthy organizations must periodically reassess and eliminate waste to thrive. Balancing efficiency and effectiveness is crucial for impactful decision-making as economic challenges arise.

57 snips
Apr 1, 2025 • 23min
239. Does Fear or Joy Drive Your Leadership Style?
The hosts dive into the impact of personal wounds on leadership, revealing how fear can often drive decision-making. They emphasize the importance of confronting unresolved trauma rather than running from it. Everyone has wounds like shame and rejection, and healing is a lifelong journey. They encourage leaders to embrace vulnerability and self-discovery, suggesting that addressing these issues sooner can lead to more authentic and joyful leadership. Listeners are inspired to tackle their struggles with hope and gratitude.

Oct 2, 2024 • 27sec
Fall 2024 Announcement
A notable transition is underway as the podcast team announces a hiatus for fall 2024. A new office near Nashville is opening, symbolizing fresh beginnings. Listeners are encouraged to stay subscribed with the promise of a return in 2025. Exciting assessments like the Six Types of Working Genius and the 5 Dysfunctions of a Team are highlighted, inviting engagement even during the break.

22 snips
Sep 25, 2024 • 21min
238. Conflict Scarcity
The discussion dives into the modern workplace's 'conflict drought' and how essential conflict can actually be for teamwork. Trust is highlighted as a crucial element in navigating conflicts, transforming discomfort into growth opportunities. The conversation addresses the challenges remote teams face in fostering genuine interactions and urges tackling uncomfortable topics head-on. Plus, there's a light-hearted moment encouraging a move to Colorado, showcasing the balance of serious insights and playful banter.

Sep 11, 2024 • 24min
237. The Heart of an Organization
The discussion delves into the core values that form the 'heart' of an organization, using Southwest Airlines as a compelling example. It warns against tampering with foundational aspects, which can jeopardize integrity. The conversation also highlights the struggles of publicly traded companies balancing short-term profits with long-term values. Resilience and maintaining identity during challenges are key takeaways, seasoned with a light-hearted nod to donuts, reminding listeners of the fun in these vital conversations.

Aug 21, 2024 • 22min
236. The Trouble With Humility
Explore the intricate dance between humility and leadership. Discover why authority doesn't negate humility, and how leaders can engage their teams meaningfully. Dive into the paradoxes faced by CEOs and the importance of vulnerability in leadership. Reflect on the balance between humility and ambition, emphasizing the need for self-awareness and genuine service. Learn how to navigate the challenges of staying humble amidst success, all while enjoying some lighthearted team dynamics.

Aug 14, 2024 • 23min
235. The Growth Curve
The discussion revolves around the importance of experiencing setbacks to foster growth. It highlights how fear of failure can restrict innovative strategies. Strategies from Southwest Airlines showcase the tension between adapting to competition and preserving core identity. The conversation emphasizes the significance of maintaining core values to ensure long-term success while grappling with change. Lastly, it advocates for a broader understanding of growth that transcends mere revenue, focusing on sustaining organizational identity through self-reflection.

Aug 7, 2024 • 22min
234. The Real Cost of Mediocrity
Delve into the hidden costs of mediocrity beyond just finances. Discover how indifference impacts organizational morale and customer experiences. Leadership often sidesteps tough conversations, allowing complacency to thrive. Hear personal tales of service disappointments showcasing deeper operational issues. Explore the importance of encouraging excellence in communities and sports, and understand how a mindset shift can enhance personal health and relationships. It's a call to pursue greatness in every facet of life!