Scaling Up Business with Bill Gallagher

Are we too busy to think or just out of practice?Scott Burgmeyer and Tammy Rogers dive into one of the most overlooked skills in today’s workplace: thinking. From the rise of “non-thinking” archetypes to the danger of lizard brain decision-making, they explore why so many leaders and employees are stuck in reactive loops; and how to break out of them.Scott shares his signature Swiss cheese analogy to explain how systems thinking can prevent blame culture and improve decision-making. Tammy reframes the idea that "there's no time to think," showing how intentional reflection is a competitive advantage. If you want to lead with clarity, think more critically, and get better at making decisions that matter, this episode will give you the tools and mental models to start.Topics explored in this episode:(05:15) Critical Thinking Skills -- A Dying Art?*Tammy asks the important question of ‘why aren’t people thinking’?*What is ‘Thinking’ really? Scott explains*Tammy shares some common ‘non-thinking’ archetypes.*Having a thought vs. thinking are two very different things.(14:00) Moving Out of Lizard Brain Thinking*It’s important to ask growth questions: What worked/what didn’t work.*Recognizing your logical fallacies is how you grow.*Apply the ‘learning/thinking’ lesson in other areas and categories of life.*What’s more likely to go wrong? --Some people take this the wrong way.(22:10) The Swiss Cheese Analogy*Scott shares his swiss cheese analogy and how it connects to thinking.*We sometimes find scapegoats to shift blame on instead of the actual system that lead up to the mistakes.*Our brains fill in the gaps and make assumptions all the time.*Although we frequently notice subconscious and intuitive cues, we tend to ignore them(34:30) I Don’t Have Time to Think*Things are just too busy to slow down just to think? Tammy reframes this perspective.*Thinking is all about expanding value to you and those around you.*You’re rewarded by how quickly and how WELL you make decisions.Thanks to Scott Burgmeyer & Tammy Rogers for being on the show!Connect with Scott & Tammy: https://www.becomemoregp.comScott’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/burgy/Tammy’s Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tammerarogers/Book: Think: The Road Less Traveled by Scott Burgmeyer & Tammy RogersBill Gallagher, Scaling Coach and host of the Scaling Up Business podcast, is an international business coach who works with C-Suite leaders to achieve breakthrough growth.Join Bill in the Growth Navigator Coaching Program: https://ScalingCoach.com/workshopBill on LinkedIn: https://www.LinkedIn.com/in/BillGallBill on YouTube: https://www.YouTube.com/@BillGallagherScalingCoachVisit https://ScalingUp.com to learn more about Verne Harnish, our team of Scaling Up Coaches, and the Scaling Up Performance Platform, which includes coaching, learning, software, and summit. We share how the fastest-growing companies succeed where so many others fail. We help leadership teams with the biggest decisions around people, strategy, execution, and cash so that they can scale up successfully and beat the odds of business growth.Did you enjoy today’s episode? If so, then please leave a review! Help other business leaders discover Scaling Up Business with Bill Gallagher so they, too, can benefit from the ideas shared in these podcasts.Subscribe via Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3PGhWPJSubscribe via Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3PKe00uBill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/billgall/Bill on Twitter/X: https://x.com/billgallThis episode was produced by Story On Media: https://www.storyon.co/

Bill emphasizes the importance of approaching others with expectation of hearing "yes" rather than bracing for rejection. He points out that expecting a "no" can negatively affect one's demeanor and the way proposals are presented, potentially leading to self-sabotage before even fully articulating the pitch. To counteract this, Bill advises focusing on the potential "yes" by considering and speaking to what the other party might want or find beneficial, thereby crafting a more compelling and engaging proposal.Moreover, Bill delves into the psychological barriers that fear of rejection can create, suggesting that this fear can significantly impede one's ability to secure affirmative responses. He recommends acknowledging and setting aside this fear to focus on why the proposition could be appealing to the other party. If the fear of rejection is deeply ingrained, seeking external help or therapy might be necessary to overcome these hurdles. Ultimately, the aim is to move beyond the fear, speculate on potential wins for both parties and present a pitch that is both compelling and attuned to the interests and desires of the other person, thus improving the chances of hearing "yes" more frequently in business endeavors.

Ryan Hawk, an author and keynote speaker, shares insights on transforming leadership skills. He reflects on his Ohio upbringing where sports shaped his grit and growth. The conversation delves into the power of diversity in teamwork and the importance of deep listening. Hawk discusses the struggle to celebrate wins and advocates for continuous learning and self-care to fuel leadership effectiveness. He emphasizes the significance of seeking permission in teaching, fostering stronger relationships, and the liberating journey of always pursuing excellence.

Reflecting on the past year is key to ending strong. The ideal time is between Thanksgiving and mid-December. Bill encourages envisioning your life ten years from now to define your purpose. Setting realistic daily habits can help you achieve those long-term goals. He suggests creating a visual collage of your aspirations for daily motivation. Small changes can lead to significant results, ensuring you kick off the new year on the right foot.

Dan Clifford, a strategic advisor and former CEO, shares insights on planning impactful annual strategy offsites. He emphasizes the importance of pre-planning and choosing inspiring locations to foster creativity. Dan also discusses leveraging data and AI to inform discussions while ensuring the right attendees are present. They explore strategies for maintaining focus during sessions, the significance of agenda flow, and how to effectively follow up to ensure accountability and continuous improvement for the year ahead.

What if chasing “having it all” is exactly what’s making you miserable?In this episode, Bill challenges what “having it all” means and explores what actually creates sustainable happiness for high-performing leaders. He shares moments from when he had money, success, and recognition, but still felt empty, and explains why joy often comes from subtraction of things. Topics explored in this episode:(03:40) Success Without Joy Is Emptiness*Bill reflects on hitting financial and professional milestones; yet still feeling a strange emptiness. *Challenge the belief that: achievement = happiness. *External wins don’t always translate to internal satisfaction.(07:15) Why the Gratitude Advice Doesn’t Always Work*Break “Thanksgiving” into two core practices: Thanks (appreciation) and Giving (generosity).*Start with gratitude for team members, family, and yourself.*Let go of expectations, and express that through generous action.(10:50) The Secret Might Be: Wanting Less*True happiness often comes from removing things, not adding more. *Reconsider the idea of “having it all.” *Creating fewer goals for yourself actually might be the real key to fulfillment.Bill Gallagher, Scaling Coach and host of the Scaling Up Business podcast, is an international business coach who works with C-Suite leaders to achieve breakthrough growth. Join Bill in the Growth Navigator Coaching Program: https://ScalingCoach.com/workshop Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.LinkedIn.com/in/BillGallBill on YouTube: https://www.YouTube.com/@BillGallagherScalingCoach Visit https://ScalingUp.com to learn more about Verne Harnish, our team of Scaling Up Coaches, and the Scaling Up Performance Platform, which includes coaching, learning, software, and summit. We share how the fastest-growing companies succeed where so many others fail. We help leadership teams with the biggest decisions around people, strategy, execution, and cash so that they can scale up successfully and beat the odds of business growth. Did you enjoy today’s episode? If so, then please leave a review! Help other business leaders discover Scaling Up Business with Bill Gallagher so they, too, can benefit from the ideas shared in these podcasts.Subscribe via Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3PGhWPJSubscribe via Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3PKe00uBill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/billgall/ Bill on Twitter/X: https://x.com/billgall 

What does it really mean for people to feel like they matter in the workplace?In this episode, Zach Mercurio unpacks why mattering is the missing piece in most workplace cultures and how leaders can foster it. He also explores how a sense of value and contribution drives engagement, innovation, and retention. Zach is on a mission to make work and life more meaningful. As an author, researcher, and speaker, he helps leaders create environments where people feel valued. Topics explored in this episode: (02:15) The Science of Mattering* How mattering influences employee performance and well-being.* Why recognition alone isn’t enough to make people feel valued.(10:40) Workplace Disconnection* The hidden costs of employees feeling like they don’t matter.(18:55) The Role of Leaders in Creating Mattering* Mattering shouldn’t be just an HR initiative—it’s a leadership responsibility.(28:30) Purpose vs. Mattering* Why having a sense of mattering is more foundational than purpose.* Case studies of companies that have built cultures of mattering.(47:20) Building a Mattering-Centric Culture* The three key components of a workplace where people feel they matter.Thanks to Zach Mercurio for being on the show! Learn more about Zach: https://www.zachmercurio.com/Get Zach’s book: The Power of Mattering: How Leaders Can Create a Culture of Significance: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D8XMWCLJ Connect with Zach on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zachmercurio Bill Gallagher, Scaling Coach and host of the Scaling Up Business podcast, is an international business coach who works with C-Suite leaders to achieve breakthrough growth. Join Bill in the Growth Navigator Coaching Program: https://ScalingCoach.com/workshop Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.LinkedIn.com/in/BillGallBill on YouTube: https://www.YouTube.com/@BillGallagherScalingCoach Visit https://ScalingUp.com to learn more about Verne Harnish, our team of Scaling Up Coaches, and the Scaling Up Performance Platform, which includes coaching, learning, software, and summit. We share how the fastest-growing companies succeed where so many others fail. We help leadership teams with the biggest decisions around people, strategy, execution, and cash so that they can scale up successfully and beat the odds of business growth.  Did you enjoy today’s episode? If so, then please leave a review! Help other business leaders discover Scaling Up Business with Bill Gallagher so they, too, can benefit from the ideas shared in these podcasts.Subscribe via Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3PGhWPJSubscribe via Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3PKe00uBill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/billgall/ Bill on Twitter/X: https://x.com/billgall This episode was produced by Story On Media: https://www.storyon.co/ 

The holiday season can be both joyful and stressful for leaders. It serves as a diagnostic tool, revealing gaps in leadership and team trust. Bill emphasizes breaking down Thanksgiving into gratitude and generosity. He suggests mapping holiday logistics for family and teams to avoid past issues. Practicing specific appreciation and acceptance enhances interactions. Leaders are encouraged to step back from control, fostering participation and inclusion. Overall, it's about embracing the season with a focus on connection and thoughtful generosity.

Susan Power, Founder and CEO of PowerUp Leadership, joins to explore the nuances of effective leadership through emotional intelligence. She reflects on her personal leadership evolution, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and self-awareness over mere confidence. Susan shares techniques like using an emotional wheel and coaching methods to enhance emotional expression and regulation. The conversation also touches on how leadership skills directly influence sales performance and the challenges of delegating tasks while fostering team growth.

What do you do when everything feels like it's falling apart?In this solo episode, Bill explores why “feeling groovy” isn’t just a quirky phrase; it’s a powerful tool for high-performing CEOs. Drawing inspiration from Simon & Garfunkel’s 59th Street Bridge Song, Bill breaks down the connection between presence, creativity, luck, and leadership effectiveness.Topics explored in this episode:(01:15) Why CEOs Need to Feel Groovy*What “feeling groovy” means in a leadership context.*You can’t inspire others if you're always in survival mode.*Slowing down is a powerful gateway to clarity, presence, and leadership.(03:50) The Power of Pause*How taking breaks helps you recover physically, mentally, and emotionally.*Even brief pauses improve your ability to make strategic decisions.*Creating space leads to insights and better human connection.(06:25) The “Happy People” Study*A fascinating social study on why “lucky” people spot more opportunities.*Presence and joy increase awareness and your luck! *Why mindset affects what you notice (or don’t) in your environment.Bill Gallagher, Scaling Coach and host of the Scaling Up Business podcast, is an international business coach who works with C-Suite leaders to achieve breakthrough growth. Join Bill in the Growth Navigator Coaching Program: https://ScalingCoach.com/workshop Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.LinkedIn.com/in/BillGallBill on YouTube: https://www.YouTube.com/@BillGallagherScalingCoach Visit https://ScalingUp.com to learn more about Verne Harnish, our team of Scaling Up Coaches, and the Scaling Up Performance Platform, which includes coaching, learning, software, and summit. We share how the fastest-growing companies succeed where so many others fail. We help leadership teams with the biggest decisions around people, strategy, execution, and cash so that they can scale up successfully and beat the odds of business growth. Did you enjoy today’s episode? If so, then please leave a review! Help other business leaders discover Scaling Up Business with Bill Gallagher so they, too, can benefit from the ideas shared in these podcasts.Subscribe via Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3PGhWPJSubscribe via Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3PKe00uBill on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/billgall/ Bill on Twitter/X: https://x.com/billgall