Greatness Podcast

One of the greatest challenges in creating an agile organization is driving urgency for the need to change. Covid-19 has created an urgent need to change. But what about two years from now? How can you, as a leader, create a nimble organization that is “proactive in reacting”, that embraces “wonder” and the urgent need to evolve? It was really fun to turn the tables on the Greatness podcast by having my associate, Max Affleck, interview me about what I learned on these topics during my recent PhD studies. I hope you enjoy my comments and find them useful!

How can leaders create learning organizations that enable people to achieve their greatest personal contribution? How can we as leaders not allow the stress of today’s situation to drive us back to the learned behaviors of a heroic culture?  These are the strategic concerns of today’s world discussed by Jim Motroni, Senior Partner with Conversant, during this compelling conversation on the Greatness podcast. Jim shares concrete tips for how leaders can create vibrant environments of innovation and co-creation. 

Can you help someone develop collaboration skills? Absolutely according to Francesca Gino, Harvard professor and author of Rebel Talent. Francesca joined the Greatness podcast to discuss how critical collaboration is in today’s disruptive business environment and the six training techniques to build collaboration skills in yourself and others. Francesca also shares the five secret talents of the rebels in your organization, and why having rebels is a good idea.

How can we have productive conversations with no visual cues? And, what does that tell us about how to thrive amid the big crisis-driven move to virtual communication?  Mickey Connolly, Founder and Chairman of Conversant, joined the Greatness podcast to talk about one of the foundational tools of the organization, the “conversation meter”. When used, this powerful tool elevates our conversations to a place of finding mutual purposes that drives productivity, collaboration, innovation and success. With many of us facing more virtual conversations, I think you will like the simple, powerful questions that drive conversations towards authenticity and trust.

Does your organization have a soul? Bill Boyar, Founding Shareholder of BoyarMiller, joined the Greatness podcast to discuss why he left one law firm, which “had no soul”, to found another firm where growing and making money was the outcome, not the purpose. Bill shares some of the tough decisions he and his partners have faced over the years, and how they continue to focus upon consistently behaving in a way that aligns with their values - with each other, their clients, even opposing attorneys. It’s a great story of how to build transparency, curiosity, and ultimately success through the power of authentic conversations.

What could be more interesting that 30 minutes on the phone with acclaimed Harvard professor, consultant and author Michael Beer? Not much and he has offered just that during this Greatness podcast. In his latest book, Fit to Compete, Mike states that most strategic failures spring from an organization’s inability to have honest conversations. It was one of the most important factors in my decision to join Conversant. The underpinnings of our strategic advisement hinge on this critical ability – how to build transparent cultures with systems of human connectedness that unleash brilliance. Mike has many sound tips for any leader interested in achieving transparency and alignment within their organization.

How do you effectively engage a system of stakeholders for an extraordinary outcome? How do you create a “system of human connectedness” versus “disjointed simultaneous monologues”? Anne Murray Allen of Conversant joined the Greatness Podcast to discuss how The Nature Conservancy took a systems approach in addressing water quality on the Mississippi River. Key to their success was framing the issue in a manner that united the various stakeholders along the river to build community and co-create innovative solutions that met their unique needs. This is a great story of success in changing the way people accomplish work and creating a system of learning to achieve a “moon shot”

Thirty years ago this man, Ron Erps, had the courage to put a 27-year-old woman in charge of an 800 person manufacturing operation in a failing company that was given 12 months to turn it around or face closure. This leadership opportunity early in my career had a profound impact upon me and shaped my thinking on a number of topics – leadership, leading change, listening, and empowering a community of hundreds of people to drive success. I’m so thankful I was able to visit with Ron and his wife Janet in 2018 as he sadly passed away last year. I’ll never forget his mentorship and faith in me. Thank you, Mickey Connolly, for interviewing me for the Greatness podcast so that I could share this story. I think there are a few relevant tips in here for leaders in today’s turbulent business environment.

Does your organization understand it’s role in bringing value to society?  Are you exhibiting purpose-driven leadership? And is your organization focused upon a holistic approach to health and wellbeing? The Greatness podcast welcomed Dr. Amanda Rischbieth, business leader and visiting scientist at Harvard, to talk about these critical questions. The 2019 US Business Roundtable statement sent a clear message that business plays a critical role in the wellbeing of society, and Amanda discusses how investment strategies are shifting to recognize this need.

How do you effectively bring the right 40 stakeholders together to collectively represent the interests of thousands of employees to avoid a seemingly unavoidable strike? How do you get the “system” in the conversation when your organization is facing seemingly insurmountable challenges? Conversant Chairman and Founder Mickey Connolly shares an incredible case study that is relevant in today’s turbulent business environment. Enjoy!