The FLT Podcast

Outi Sivonen, CHRO at Solita, is a Finnish expert in leadership and organizational culture. She discusses the evolving landscape of leadership, emphasizing the importance of presence and trust in fostering team growth. Key topics include the necessity of open dialogue on diversity and performance, as well as the role of authentic company culture in encouraging individuality. Outi also highlights the significance of clear communication for effective feedback, and the need for tailored approaches in a diverse workplace.

Is the buzz around DEI fading? The team discusses the pressing need for genuine change amid shifting workplace conversations. They delve into age diversity and the challenges faced by those over 50, tackling systemic ageism. Recruitment biases tied to appearance and ethnicity are examined, revealing how they affect hiring. The conversation emphasizes the importance of embedding DEI in business strategies, highlighting the risks of ignoring it. Ultimately, the dialogue champions the enduring necessity of DEI for innovation and organizational health.

Teivo Teivainen, an expert on Finnish politics, delves into the recent elections and their implications. He explores why Finland's elections might be considered 'boring' yet reveal deep-rooted optimism. The conversation highlights the role of identity in shaping voter behavior and the unique challenges facing Finland as a 'front-line' state. Teivainen also contrasts the leadership styles of the outgoing and incoming presidents, shedding light on their foreign policy approaches amid evolving geopolitical tensions.

Janne Taalas, CEO of the Martti Ahtisaari Foundation, dives into the art of emotional intelligence in leadership and conflict resolution. He shares insights on the unique 'vomiting sessions' used to address emotions before negotiations. The conversation touches on the importance of project orientation versus relationships in Finnish culture and advocates for empowering women's voices in peacebuilding efforts. Taalas emphasizes the vital role women play in negotiations and the need for authentic leadership, enriched with humor and emotional insight.

Hannakaisa Länsisalmi, Chief People and Culture Officer at OP Financial Group, is known for her transformative leadership in Finland's largest financial services organization. In this conversation, she shares insights on fostering psychological safety and the crucial role of diversity in teams. Hannakaisa draws intriguing parallels between leadership and ballet, emphasizing collaboration and emotional resilience. She also discusses innovative approaches to evaluating leadership experiences and the significance of mentorship in helping others achieve success.

Anttu Forsberg, a leadership anthropologist and coach, debunks the myth of the 'hero leader.' He explores the cultural context of Finnish leadership and the impact of the old boys' network on women's roles. The conversation emphasizes the importance of humility, emotional regulation, and fostering an emotionally safe workplace. Anttu advocates for a shift from individualism to collective growth, highlighting the need for genuine listening and curiosity in effective leadership. Expect insights into navigating dysfunctional teams and embracing emotional intelligence strategies.

Asko Känsälä, a recognized leader in technology and telecom, shares his insights on the nuanced world of leadership. He discusses the importance of treating work like a hobby to foster passion and creativity. The conversation highlights the significance of empathetic leadership, balancing kindness with strength, and empowering others for meaningful change. Navigating the complexities of evolving workplace environments and promoting a culture of learning are also key topics, with a focus on the Finnish approach to humility and collaboration in leadership.

Explore the fascinating qualities of Finnish leadership that defy stereotypes. Discover how Finland has thrived despite limited resources and a challenging environment. Uncover the cultural principles that have shaped the nation's success since independence and gain insights into effective leadership practices.