
The 90th Percentile: An Unconventional Leadership Podcast
Using over 1.5 million assessments from leaders across the world, renowned psychometrician Joe Folkman and leadership legend Jack Zenger are here to settle the debates and let the data speak for itself. Each week they analyze different leadership traits, trends, and what it really takes to get to the 90th percentile. These short episodes feature compelling stories, research, and actions that leaders can take to improve. To learn more visit https://zengerfolkman.com/podcast/.
Latest episodes

Jan 22, 2025 • 26min
Episode 154: Is Learning and Development Being Demoted?
Details In this episode of The 90th Percentile, we dive into the shifting landscape of Learning and Development (L&D) with Dani Johnson, co-founder and principal analyst at RedThread Research. Dani explores the concerning trend of L&D’s “demotion” within organizations, the rise of federated models, and the opportunities for L&D leaders to adapt and thrive. Together, … Continued
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Jan 15, 2025 • 25min
Episode 153: Finding Joy as a Leader (Even on the Hard Days)
Details When work and life are overwhelming, it can be difficult to reclaim a sense of joy at work. Research has shown the benefits of incorporating joy, hope, and optimism into the workplace to combat burnout and improve well-being. Our guest today is Daisey Auger-Dominguez, a Chief People Officer, workplace strategist, speaker, and author on … Continued
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Jan 6, 2025 • 17min
Episode 152: How Much Does Passion Influence Performance?
Details As we step into a new year filled with possibilities, this episode of The 90th Percentile dives into the powerful connection between passion and performance. Hosts Bre and Joe explore Zenger Folkman’s groundbreaking research on how passion influences leadership effectiveness, with compelling stories like Koel Thomae’s journey to build Noosa Yoghurt. They discuss the … Continued
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Dec 23, 2024 • 2min
Zenger Folkman Holiday Message 2024
Details This holiday, we encourage you to find stability and joy in the customs that have persisted for generations. Though the world may sometimes feel uncertain, the enduring spirit of the holidays can provide comfort, connection, and hope. Connect with Joe Folkman LinkedIn Twitter Webinar Zenger Folkman hosts an exclusive live webinar every month, where … Continued
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Dec 11, 2024 • 13min
Episode 151: 3 Ways to Help Employees Love Their Jobs
Details Do the people you manage love their jobs? Or do you sense that some are dissatisfied or disengaged? It’s no secret that employees who love their jobs work harder and are willing to go the extra mile, which benefits any organization. While the core of great leadership remains unchanged, the landscape of work has … Continued
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Nov 27, 2024 • 15min
Episode 150: The Unexpected Strengths of Each Generation of Leaders
Details Picture a modern workplace leadership meeting: A Baby Boomer executive types deliberately on her laptop while referencing printed handouts, a Gen X director efficiently leads the agenda via his tablet, and a Millennial manager seamlessly orchestrates remote team participation through multiple digital platforms. This isn’t just a scene of technological evolution – it’s a … Continued
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Nov 19, 2024 • 13min
Episode 149: Building Empathy and Drive at the Same Time
Details In a time where AI disrupts traditional workplace dynamics and remote work reshapes human connections, business leaders face a crucial question: How do we maintain our humanity while driving results? The answer might surprise those who still cling to the “tough boss” stereotype. In our episode today we’re discussing how most effective leaders aren’t … Continued
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Nov 13, 2024 • 20min
Bonus Episode– Susan David, Emotional Agility
Details Dr. Susan David is a founder and co-director of the Institute of Coaching at McLean Hospital of Harvard Medical School and an Instructor in Psychology at Harvard University. In this episode, Susan discusses her research on emotional agility and how to master challenges without getting derailed. Download the eBook of her full interview here. Guest … Continued
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Nov 6, 2024 • 16min
Episode 148: The Real Key to Employee Engagement—Leadership Over Location
Details Have you noticed a remarkable shift where major companies are mandating return to office policies. Amazon recently joined the ranks of Meta, Google, and others in requiring employees to return full time to the office. What’s particularly interesting is the timing – why now, after years of remote work? We all know that organizations … Continued
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Oct 30, 2024 • 15min
Episode 147: Listening—An Essential Tool for Building Trust
Details In a time with constant communication and information overload, the ability to truly listen stands out as a cornerstone for building trust within teams. In this episode, We’ll explore how listening practices vary across cultures and organizations, the growing awareness of its importance in leadership, and the challenges leaders face in balancing listening with … Continued
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