Coaching for Leaders

In this conversation, Richard Rierson, a veteran leader with extensive experience in the Marine Corps and aviation, dives into the importance of challenging authority within organizations. He shares how aviation has improved communication and safety through structured practices, highlighting key incidents that reveal the risks of silence. Listeners learn about empowering teams to voice concerns and the value of a culture that encourages respectful dissent. With insights into the color-coded communication system, Rierson provides practical tools for enhancing teamwork and leadership.

Deepa Purushothaman, co-founder of nFormation and a trailblazer for women of color in corporate America, shares her insights on institutional frictions that hinder diversity and inclusion. She challenges myths around recruitment and colorblindness, emphasizing the need to acknowledge racial differences. Deepa discusses the misconception that DEI initiatives alone can create change and advocates for a broader cultural shift. Drawing parallels between personal experiences and workplace dynamics, she highlights the necessity for diverse perspectives to foster belonging.

Nate Zinsser, an expert in the psychology of human performance with over thirty years of experience, shares insights on nurturing confidence. He debunks the myth that confidence is a permanent trait, emphasizing its dynamic nature. Zinsser discusses strategies for maintaining self-assurance during setbacks, highlighting the importance of perspective and mental framing. He offers practical tips for transforming negative self-talk into growth opportunities, empowering listeners to build resilience and enhance their performance in various areas of life.

In this enlightening discussion, Keith Ferrazzi, founder of Ferrazzi Greenlight and a bestselling author, shares invaluable insights on team resilience. He emphasizes the importance of empathy and humility within teams, advocating for a culture of asking for help. Ferrazzi highlights that resilient teams thrive on candor, encouraging open communication among members. He draws from powerful examples, including the role of leadership during crises, and offers actionable strategies to foster human connection and collaboration in the workplace.

Cassandra Worthy, a chemical engineer and author of *Change Enthusiasm*, empowers organizations to thrive during change by utilizing emotional intelligence. She discusses the often-overlooked role of emotions in leadership, emphasizing that negative feelings can lead to growth if acknowledged. Cassandra offers practical strategies for leaders to foster employee engagement, such as open communication and empathy. She highlights how viewing change as an opportunity can enhance resilience and drive innovation within teams.

Hassan Osman, a director at Cisco Systems and bestselling author on team management, dives into the complexities of managing hybrid teams. He discusses the growing demand for flexible work arrangements and the importance of fostering a remote-first culture to ensure inclusivity. Hassan highlights practical strategies like conducting all meetings online, involving remote members in decision-making, and optimizing team dynamics. Empathy in leadership and performance metrics are also key themes, guiding leaders to adapt effectively in this new work landscape.

In this engaging discussion, Sarah Stein Greenberg, the Executive Director of the Stanford d.school and author of *Creative Acts for Curious People*, dives into the discomfort inherent in the learning process. She emphasizes that struggle is essential for creativity, describing the 'trough of despair' we all face during challenges. Sarah introduces the concept of productive struggle, encouraging listeners to embrace discomfort as growth. She shares insights on navigating innovation and the importance of honest feedback in development, transforming struggles into opportunities for success.

Michael F. Schein, founder of MicroFame Media and author of The Hype Handbook, dives into the art of attracting attention through strategic storytelling. He redefines hype, highlighting its emotional engagement potential and lessons from historical figures like the Magi. Schein discusses crafting personal narratives that resonate with audiences, emphasizing the importance of authenticity. He also explores the dual role of narrative elements and the power of theatricality in personal branding, offering insights on how hype can effectively influence leadership.

Ruth Gotian, an expert in mentorship and leadership development, shares insights on how to effectively lead and retain high performers. She emphasizes that top achievers can deliver up to 400% more than average employees, highlighting the importance of autonomy and tailored opportunities for engagement. Ruth also discusses the significance of fostering a strong team culture through core values like joy and compassion. Intrinsic motivation, stemming from personal fulfillment, is key to recognizing and developing talent, ultimately driving organizational excellence.

In this engaging discussion, Amishi Jha, a renowned Professor of Psychology and Director of Contemplative Neuroscience at the University of Miami, reveals how attention is both powerful and trainable. She shares fascinating insights about working memory, likening it to a computer's RAM, and highlights how mindfulness can enhance focus and decision-making. Amishi discusses the cognitive benefits of forgetting and offers practical tips on improving attention for better leadership outcomes, all drawn from her extensive research and personal experiences.