In this episode of The Failure Gap, Julie Williamson speaks with Andy Cowan, president of Particle Measuring Systems, about the significance of aligned leadership. They explore Andy's journey to leadership, the importance of team alignment, and the characteristics that define effective leaders. The conversation delves into building trust within teams, navigating challenges, and celebrating successes. Andy emphasizes the role of visualization in achieving goals and the necessity of clear metrics to ensure alignment. The discussion concludes with insights on overcoming the fear of failure and key takeaways for leaders looking to foster collaboration and alignment within their teams.

Episode Takeaways

• Alignment is crucial in both business and personal contexts
• Listening to stakeholders is a fundamental leadership skill
• Courage and transparency are essential for effective leadership
• Building trust within teams enhances collaboration
• Progress is more important than perfection in leadership
• Visualization helps in achieving strategic goals
• Metrics should align with overall company objectives
• Assuming positive intent fosters a collaborative environment
• Overcoming the fear of failure is vital for growth
• Adaptability is key in a changing business landscape

If you would like to connect with Andy Cowan outside of this episode, connect with him on LinkedIn.
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Is misalignment holding your organization back?
Aligned teams deliver better results more consistently, and they have deeper connections to each other and their organizations. 

Download our free Leadership Alignment Evaluation Tool and take the first step toward transforming how your team works together.

Learn more about Julie and Karrikins Group:

• Connect with Julie on LinkedIn
• Follow Karrikins Group on LinkedIn 
• Check out Julie's book, 'Make HOW Matter: Key Conversations for Leaders to Build Alignment and Accelerate Growth'
• Learn more about how Karrikins Group helps enterprise teams drive better results

At Karrikins Group, we work alongside leaders to close the gap between great ideas and real results by combining business expertise with social science to help teams align on how to deliver together - driving better outcomes and stronger connections.

In this episode of the Failure Gap, host Julie Williamson, PhD, engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Carice Anderson, author of "Intelligence Isn't Enough." They explore the importance of understanding oneself, building relationships, and navigating high-performing environments. Carice shares her journey from her education at Harvard Business School to her career at McKinsey, Deloitte, and beyond, emphasizing the value of aligning work with personal values and the power of connectedness.

Episode Takeaways

• Understanding oneself is crucial for success
• Building relationships is key in high-performing environments
• Aligning work with personal values enhances impact
• Connectedness is essential in both personal and professional life
• Education is a tool to transcend barriers
• Excellence is achieved through collaboration
• Navigating different cultures requires adaptability
• Personal branding is important for introverts
• Psychological safety fosters team success
• Deadlines and accountability drive completion

If you would like to connect with Carice Anderson outside of this episode, connect with her on LinkedIn, learn more about her on her website here, or snag your own copy of the book, "Intelligence Isn't Enough."
-------------------------
Is misalignment holding your organization back?
Aligned teams deliver better results more consistently, and they have deeper connections to each other and their organizations. 

Download our free Leadership Alignment Evaluation Tool and take the first step toward transforming how your team works together.

Learn more about Julie and Karrikins Group:

• Connect with Julie on LinkedIn
• Follow Karrikins Group on LinkedIn 
• Check out Julie's book, 'Make HOW Matter: Key Conversations for Leaders to Build Alignment and Accelerate Growth'
• Learn more about how Karrikins Group helps enterprise teams drive better results

At Karrikins Group, we work alongside leaders to close the gap between great ideas and real results by combining business expertise with social science to help teams align on how to deliver together - driving better outcomes and stronger connections.

In this episode of the Failure Gap, host Julie engages with Nick Anderson, CEO of OneAccord, discussing the challenges leaders face in bridging the gap between agreement and alignment. They explore the importance of commitment over mere agreement, the role of personal transformation driven by need, and the balance between short-term and long-term goals. Nick shares his personal journey of weight loss as a metaphor for organizational change, emphasizing the need for consistency and shared meaning in achieving goals. The conversation concludes with a focus on mentorship as a vital component of leadership and the importance of clear communication in fostering alignment within teams.

Episode Takeaways

• The integrity of agreements is often questionable
• Apathy can be a silent killer in organizations
• Personal transformation often stems from a sharp need
• Long-term goals require incremental steps to achieve
• Successes are collective, while failures are individual
• Mentorship can change the trajectory of future leaders
• Clear communication is essential for alignment
• Identifying needs can drive engagement and commitment
• Consistency in small actions leads to significant change
• Creating shared meaning fosters alignment in team

If you would like to connect with Nick Anderson outside of this episode, connect with him on LinkedIn or learn more about OneAccord here.
-------------------------
Is misalignment holding your organization back?
Aligned teams deliver better results more consistently, and they have deeper connections to each other and their organizations. 

Download our free Leadership Alignment Evaluation Tool and take the first step toward transforming how your team works together.

Learn more about Julie and Karrikins Group:

• Connect with Julie on LinkedIn
• Follow Karrikins Group on LinkedIn 
• Check out Julie's book, 'Make HOW Matter: Key Conversations for Leaders to Build Alignment and Accelerate Growth'
• Learn more about how Karrikins Group helps enterprise teams drive better results

At Karrikins Group, we work alongside leaders to close the gap between great ideas and real results by combining business expertise with social science to help teams align on how to deliver together - driving better outcomes and stronger connections.

In this episode of The Failure Gap, Julie Williamson, Ph.D. speaks with Jersey Banks, Co-Founder of Urban Cowboy Boutique Hotels. Jersey shares her unique journey from a professional dancer to a successful entrepreneur in the hospitality industry. The conversation explores the challenges of building a brand, the importance of company culture, and the hard work behind the glamorous facade of hospitality. Jersey emphasizes the need for listening and learning in entrepreneurship, as well as the value of allowing team members to fail and grow. The episode concludes with Jersey's quirky wish for a better design solution for clawfoot tubs, highlighting her creative spirit.

Episode Takeaways

• Jersey's journey began as a professional dancer before transitioning to hospitality
• Urban Cowboy started as an Airbnb-style venture before evolving into a boutique hotel brand
• The importance of listening to feedback from guests and adapting the business accordingly
• Building a company culture is crucial for employee engagement and brand consistency
• Expansion requires a shift in mindset and understanding of leadership roles
• Failure is a part of the learning process in entrepreneurship
• Instagram can create an illusion of ease in the hospitality industry
• Trusting team members to take ownership is essential for growth
• Creating a reciprocal culture between employees and guests enhances loyalty
• Entrepreneurs should embrace the journey as a work in progress

If you would like to connect with Jersey Banks outside of this episode: Connect with her on LinkedIn and learn more about Urban Cowboy.
-------------------------
Is misalignment holding your organization back?
Aligned teams deliver better results more consistently, and they have deeper connections to each other and their organizations. 

Download our free Leadership Alignment Evaluation Tool and take the first step toward transforming how your team works together.

Learn more about Julie and Karrikins Group:

• Connect with Julie on LinkedIn
• Follow Karrikins Group on LinkedIn 
• Check out Julie's book, 'Make HOW Matter: Key Conversations for Leaders to Build Alignment and Accelerate Growth'
• Learn more about how Karrikins Group helps enterprise teams drive better results

At Karrikins Group, we work alongside leaders to close the gap between great ideas and real results by combining business expertise with social science to help teams align on how to deliver together - driving better outcomes and stronger connections.

In this conversation, Lisa Adams, an AI advisor and strategist, discusses the transformative potential of AI in organizations, emphasizing the importance of viewing AI as a teammate rather than just a tool. She shares insights on how to leverage AI effectively, the necessary mindset shifts for successful integration, and the importance of AI literacy. The discussion also addresses security concerns and practical steps for getting started with AI tools, emphasizing the importance of community learning and sharing experiences.

Episode Takeaways

• AI can be a thought partner for strategy
• We need to give AI a job to help us
• AI literacy is crucial for effective use
• Using AI as a teammate enhances collaboration
• Different functions adopt AI at varying rates
• Security concerns can be navigated with common sense
• Hands-on experience is essential for learning AI
• Community sharing of AI experiences is valuable
• AI can help overcome human weaknesses
• Mindset shifts are necessary for leveraging AI

If you would like to connect with Liza Adams outside of this episode: Connect with her on LinkedIn and learn more about GrowthPath Partners.
-------------------------
Is misalignment holding your organization back?
Aligned teams deliver better results more consistently, and they have deeper connections to each other and their organizations. 

Download our free Leadership Alignment Evaluation Tool and take the first step toward transforming how your team works together.

Learn more about Julie and Karrikins Group:

• Connect with Julie on LinkedIn
• Follow Karrikins Group on LinkedIn 
• Check out Julie's book, 'Make HOW Matter: Key Conversations for Leaders to Build Alignment and Accelerate Growth'
• Learn more about how Karrikins Group helps enterprise teams drive better results

At Karrikins Group, we work alongside leaders to close the gap between great ideas and real results by combining business expertise with social science to help teams align on how to deliver together - driving better outcomes and stronger connections.

In this episode, Mandy Morris discusses the importance of emotional intelligence and mental health in leadership. She shares insights on how early experiences shape adult behavior, the significance of creating psychological safety in teams, and the need for leaders to balance their energy and intentions to foster better communication and collaboration. Mandy emphasizes the importance of understanding subconscious beliefs that keep individuals stuck and offers practical strategies for personal growth and transformation.

Episode Takeaways

• Mandy Morris empowers leaders to unlock their unique success DNA.
• The brain is wired for efficiency, not happiness.
• Subconscious beliefs can keep individuals stuck in negative patterns.
• Emotional intelligence is crucial for effective leadership.
• Creating psychological safety allows for authentic team dynamics.
• Ego and insecurity are inversely related in leadership.
• Setting intentions can significantly impact team communication.
• Visualizing success helps in forming new neural pathways.
• Identifying internal noise is key to personal growth.
• Feelings are indicators of what we need to address. 

If you would like to connect with Mandy Morris outside of this episode:
Connect with her on LinkedIn or learn more about SoFree and her executive coaching on her website.
-------------------------
Is misalignment holding your organization back?
Aligned teams deliver better results more consistently, and they have deeper connections to each other and their organizations. 

Download our free Leadership Alignment Evaluation Tool and take the first step toward transforming how your team works together.

Learn more about Julie and Karrikins Group:

• Connect with Julie on LinkedIn
• Follow Karrikins Group on LinkedIn 
• Check out Julie's book, 'Make HOW Matter: Key Conversations for Leaders to Build Alignment and Accelerate Growth'
• Learn more about how Karrikins Group helps enterprise teams drive better results

In this episode of the Failure Gap, Julie Williamson, Ph.D. speaks with Matt Leta, CEO of Future Works, about the intersection of AI and innovation in business. They discuss Matt's journey as a serial entrepreneur, the concept of vibe coding, and the importance of aligning organizational culture with technological advancements. Matt emphasizes the need for leaders to take ownership of AI initiatives, the significance of psychological safety, and practical steps to foster a culture of experimentation and continuous improvement. The conversation highlights the challenges businesses face in adopting AI and the critical role of communication and alignment in overcoming these hurdles.

Takeaways

• AI and innovation are essential for business growth.
• Vibe coding allows for efficient software development using AI.
• AI adoption is limited by the comfort level of employees.
• Cultural alignment is as important as technological advancement.
• Leaders must actively engage with AI, not delegate it.
• Small, consistent actions lead to significant change.
• Defining key terms like innovation is crucial for alignment.
• Creating a culture of experimentation fosters innovation.
• Leaders should promote internal champions for AI initiatives.
• AI integration requires ongoing practice and communication.

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If you would like to connect with Matt Leta outside of this episode, connect with him on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matleta/ or learn more about Future Works here: https://future.works/

In this conversation, Michelle Prince shares her journey from a corporate career to becoming a bestselling author and the CEO of Performance Publishing Group. She discusses the common barriers people face when trying to write a book, emphasizing the importance of overcoming the 'failure gap' between intention and action. Michelle explains her unique approach to partner publishing, where collaboration with authors is key. She highlights the significance of aligning goals and understanding the true value of writing a book as a platform for serving others. Through personal anecdotes and success stories, she inspires aspiring authors to take the first step in their writing journey and to embrace the support of a community.

Takeaways

• Michelle Prince's journey to leadership was unplanned and evolved over time.
• Many people struggle with the gap between wanting to write a book and actually doing it.
• The importance of taking the first step to overcome self-doubt.
• Partner publishing emphasizes collaboration between authors and publishers.
• Understanding the author's vision is crucial in the publishing process.
• Books serve as platforms for sharing expertise and building authority.
• The misconception that writing a book will lead to significant financial gain.
• Success stories can inspire others to take action on their ideas.
• Mindset is more important than technique when it comes to writing.
• Encouraging others to see their potential can lead to greater outcomes. 

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If you would like to connect with Michelle Prince outside of this episode, connect with her on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelleprincespeaker/
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Learn more about Julie’s work and speaking engagements. 

In this conversation, Harvey Johnson, CEO of PD Mayors, shares his journey to leadership, emphasizing the importance of alignment between personal and professional goals. He discusses the challenges of empowerment and accountability within leadership, the necessity of creating a culture where team members feel safe, seen, and valued, and innovative strategies for client targeting. The conversation culminates in a call to action regarding the environmental impact of ocean trawling, highlighting the need for awareness and change.

Takeaways

• Harvey's journey to leadership was not initially planned
• Self-reflection is crucial for personal and professional growth
• Courageous authenticity is key to effective leadership
• Empowerment comes with accountability and risk
• Creating a safe environment fosters open communication
• Alignment is an ongoing process, not a final state
• Team collaboration is essential for organizational success
• Clear vision and transparency are vital for delegation
• The right leaders are necessary for organizational growth
• Awareness of environmental issues is crucial for future generations

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If you would like to connect with Harvey Johnson outside of this episode, connect with him on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/harvey-l-johnson-cpa-1504884/
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Learn more about Julie’s work and speaking engagements. 

In this conversation, Matthew Pine, CEO of Xylem, shares his insights on leadership, alignment, and the challenges of organizational transformation. He emphasizes the importance of creating a culture of trust, accountability, and empowerment within teams. Matthew discusses his journey to leadership, the significance of diverse experiences, and the need for leaders to engage deeply in the alignment process. He highlights the role of structure in fostering accountability and the necessity of having quality conversations to navigate mindset shifts. Ultimately, he advocates for a global alignment around trust and mutual respect as essential for driving meaningful change.

Takeaways

• Matthew emphasizes the importance of diverse experiences in leadership.
• Creating a culture of trust is essential for alignment.
• Accountability and empowerment must coexist in organizations.
• Leaders need to engage deeply in the alignment process.
• Quality conversations in meetings foster trust and alignment.
• Mindset shifts are crucial for overcoming organizational challenges.
• Structure can either enable or hinder accountability.
• Transformation requires persistent effort and time.
• Global alignment around trust and respect is vital for progress.
• Leadership is a team sport that requires selflessness.

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If you would like to connect with Matthew Pine outside of this episode, connect with him on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matthew-pine-95745713/

In this episode of The Failure Gap, Julie Williamson, Ph.D. speaks with April Whitson, VP of HR for ABB and author of The Stay Challenge. They discuss the critical role of leadership in shaping workplace culture, the challenges of employee retention, and the importance of effective one-on-one meetings. April emphasizes that culture is built at the team level and that leaders must prioritize engagement and alignment to create an irresistible workplace. They also explore the concept of regrettable retention and how it affects team dynamics, urging leaders to reflect on their purpose and the impact of their decisions on both individuals and the organization as a whole.

Takeaways

• Culture happens at a team level, not just top-down.
• Regrettable retention can be a bigger issue than unwanted turnover.
• Leaders often use time as an excuse for not prioritizing culture.
• Employee engagement is a shared responsibility between leaders and employees.
• Effective one-on-ones are crucial for understanding team dynamics.
• Leaders may hold onto underperforming employees out of hope.
• Regrettable retention negatively impacts overall team morale.
• Leaders need to articulate their purpose and values clearly.
• Building a culture that retains talent requires inspiration from leaders.
• Reflection on leadership purpose is essential for alignment.

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If you would like to connect with April Whitson outside of this episode, connect with her on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aprilwhitson/

In this conversation, Dr. Jandel Allen-Davis shares her journey from being an obstetrician-gynecologist to the CEO of Craig Hospital, emphasizing the importance of saying yes to opportunities and navigating change. She discusses the significance of data-driven decision-making, building commitment over compliance, and fostering a culture of inclusion. Dr. Davis also reflects on the challenges of leadership in healthcare and her vision for a better future, advocating for a collaborative approach to problem-solving.

Takeaways

• Dr. Jandell Allen Davis transitioned from clinical care to leadership.
• Saying yes to opportunities can lead to unexpected paths.
• Navigating change requires patience and understanding of resistance.
• Data-driven decision-making enhances organizational effectiveness.
• Building commitment is more important than enforcing compliance.
• Creating an inclusive culture fosters better problem-solving.
• Celebrating small wins motivates teams and builds momentum.
• Curiosity about resistance can uncover valuable insights.
• Leadership involves checking one's ego and being open to collaboration.
• A vision for a better future requires collective effort and commitment.

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If you would like to connect with Dr. Jandel Allen-Davis outside of this episode, connect with her on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jandelallendavismd/ or learn more about Craig Hospital here: https://craighospital.org/

In this conversation, Cyril Peupion shares his journey from a corporate leader to the founder of Work Smarter Live Better (WSLB), emphasizing the importance of learning effective work habits. He discusses the challenges he faced in writing his book and the significance of giving back to others. Cyril highlights the power of team alignment and setting clear priorities for success, while also advocating for personal growth through reflection and planning. His philosophy revolves around living fully, giving generously, and continuously growing, encouraging listeners to cherish every moment and focus on what truly matters.

Takeaways

• Cyril's journey began with a realization of the need for effective work habits.
• Many leaders struggle with managing information flow and work habits.
• Improvement comes from small, consistent changes rather than one big shift.
• Practicing new habits with guidance is more effective than just receiving knowledge.
• Writing a book was a significant personal challenge for Cyril.
• The importance of giving back to others is a key theme in Cyril's philosophy.
• Team alignment is crucial for achieving collective goals.
• Setting clear priorities can lead to greater success and less overwhelm.
• Personal growth should be a continuous process, not limited to professional development.
• Cherishing every moment and living fully is essential for a fulfilling life.

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If you would like to connect with Cyril Peupion outside of this episode, connect with him on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/personal-productivity-work-life-balance-trainer-speaker/

In this episode of the Failure Gap, Richard Giles shares his unique journey from studying English literature to becoming a group finance director. He emphasizes the importance of passion in leadership, the need for effective communication, and the role of people in driving transformation. Richard discusses the challenges of navigating change, the significance of creating a supportive culture, and the necessity of psychological safety in teams. He also highlights the importance of understanding different perspectives and fostering collaboration to achieve alignment and success in organizations.

Takeaways

• Richard's journey from English literature to finance was unintentional but fulfilling.
• Passion is crucial for motivating teams and driving success.
• Creating a vision and culture takes time and requires team involvement.
• Transformation is primarily about people, not just processes or technology.
• Psychological safety is essential for effective collaboration and communication.
• Understanding different perspectives can break down barriers within teams.
• Leaders must model the behavior they want to see in their teams.
• Using tools like Myers-Briggs can foster shared understanding and language.
• Change takes time, and leaders must be patient and persistent.
• Authenticity in leadership builds trust and encourages open communication.

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If you would like to connect with Richard Giles outside of this episode, connect with him on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richard-giles-23b33793/

In this episode of the Failure Gap, Jon Marcus shares his journey from a successful corporate career to launching Rose Sisters Chips, a family business centered around a cherished tortilla recipe. He discusses the challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship, the importance of community support, and the dynamics of working with family. Jon emphasizes the need for clear roles, the value of feedback, and the courage to pivot and innovate, especially in the face of adversity like the COVID-19 pandemic. The conversation highlights the significance of aligning personal and professional goals, and the joy of creating something meaningful with loved ones.

Takeaways

• Jon transitioned from a corporate career to a family business.
• Entrepreneurship can start at any age; it's never too late.
• Having a supportive community is crucial for success.
• Feedback from customers and peers is invaluable for growth.
• Rebranding can elevate a product from fine to great.
• Clear roles in a family business prevent conflicts.
• Listening to market feedback is essential for innovation.
• Navigating challenges requires resilience and adaptability.
• Building a network can provide critical support and insights.
• The entrepreneurial journey is rewarding despite its challenges.

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If you would like to connect with Jon Marcus outside of this episode, connect with him on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonathan-c-marcus-487113/

In this episode of The Failure Gap, Dr. Martine Cannell shares her journey from being a nurse to becoming a self-care strategist, emphasizing the importance of self-care for women over 40. She discusses the challenges of aligning personal goals with daily responsibilities, the necessity of setting boundaries, and practical strategies for self-care. Dr. Cannell highlights the role of community support and cultural practices in enhancing self-care, encouraging listeners to prioritize their well-being and take actionable steps towards a healthier lifestyle.

Takeaways

• Self-care is essential, not a luxury.
• Women over 40 often neglect their own needs.
• Setting boundaries is crucial for self-care.
• Saying no is a skill that can be learned.
• Self-care practices can be simple and accessible.
• Community support enhances self-care efforts.
• Travel can serve as a form of self-care.
• Listening to your body is vital for health.
• Small changes can lead to significant improvements.
• Prioritizing self-care empowers individuals to live their best lives.

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If you would like to connect with Dr. Martine Canal outside of this episode, connect with her on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-martine-canal-8a8684113/

In this episode of the Failure Gap, Sonya Weisshappel shares her journey as a professional organizer and author of 'Confessions of a Chaos Whisperer.' She discusses the importance of moving from agreement to alignment in personal organization, the power of conversation, and the emotional aspects of decluttering. Sonya emphasizes the need for preparation during life transitions and the role of trusted advisors in helping individuals navigate these changes. The conversation highlights the disconnect many people experience in organizing their lives and the impact of life events on personal organization. In this conversation, the speakers discuss the importance of keeping appraisals current, the shift from working in a business to working on it, and the legacy that founders leave behind. They emphasize the significance of small, consistent actions in achieving long-term goals and the necessity of decluttering both physically and mentally. Practical tips for organization and the value of knowing what you own are also highlighted, encouraging listeners to take actionable steps towards better management of their personal and professional lives.

Takeaways

• Sonya Weisshappel founded her organizing company, Seriatim, to avoid writing a resume
• Professional organizing helps people move from intention to action
• Conversations around the dinner table shaped Sonya's worldview
• Dyslexia influenced Sonya's learning and organizational strategies
• Writing a book was a labor of love for Sonya
• Life transitions require preparation and organization
• Trusted advisors play a crucial role in helping clients
• Emotional clutter is as significant as physical clutter
• Regular maintenance is essential to avoid chaos
• Experiencing life events can change one's perspective on organization and appraisals for valuable items must be current
• Business owners should focus on working on their business
• Leaving a legacy is crucial for founders
• Small habits lead to significant changes over time
• Decluttering helps in managing transitions effectively
• Organizing is essential for personal and professional growth
• Understanding what you own is vital for protection
• Creating an inventory can prevent loss
• It's important to give yourself time for organization
• Dreaming big can lead to actionable steps over time

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If you would like to connect with Sonya outside of this episode, connect with her on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sonyaweisshappel/ or learn more about Seriatim here: https://www.seriatim.net/

In this episode of the Failure Gap podcast, Julie Williamson, Ph.D. speaks with Monica Radulescu, a Learning Consultant at TELUS, about her journey to leadership, the importance of overcoming fears, particularly in public speaking, and the role of senior leadership support in organizational development. They discuss the significance of creating meaningful connections in the workplace and the need for simplification to foster alignment and collaboration. Monica shares her insights on navigating the space between agreement and alignment, emphasizing the importance of curiosity, playfulness, and psychological safety in fostering a thriving organizational culture.

Takeaways

• Monica's journey to leadership began in kindergarten, inspired by her teacher.
• Overcoming public speaking fears is essential for personal and professional growth.
• Creating a culture of curiosity and playfulness encourages innovation.
• Leadership support is crucial for successful development programs.
• Building meaningful connections enhances collaboration and alignment.
• Removing barriers fosters psychological safety in the workplace.
• It's important to embrace failure as a learning opportunity.
• Asking questions can deepen relationships and understanding.
• Simplifying processes can create more space for important work.
• Continuous learning and taking small steps lead to significant progress.

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If you would like to connect with Monica outside of this episode, connect with her on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rmonica/ or learn more about TELUS here: http://www.telus.com

In this conversation, Julie Williamson and Jo Aidroos explore the journey of leadership, the challenges faced in navigating personal and professional growth, and the importance of moving from mere agreement to true alignment in organizations. Jo shares her personal experiences, including her struggles with mental health and the need for better mental health education in schools. They discuss the significance of communication, trust, and vulnerability in leadership, and how these elements contribute to successful transformation within organizations.

Takeaways:

• Jo Aidroos emphasizes the importance of self-awareness in leadership.
• Resilience is built through experience, especially during challenging times.
• Transformation requires time and dialogue for true alignment.
• Effective communication is crucial for understanding and implementing strategies.
• Mental health education should be normalized in schools to reduce stigma.
• Simplicity in messaging helps in achieving alignment among stakeholders.
• Trust is foundational for moving from agreement to alignment.
• Vulnerability in leadership fosters trust and connection with teams.
• Personal experiences can provide valuable lessons in leadership and transformation.
• Engaging in conversations rather than just telling is key to effective leadership.

In this episode, Julie Williamson speaks with Ken Wilkinson, founder and CEO of Layer 10, about his leadership journey, the importance of alignment in business, and the intersection of technology and property development. They discuss the challenges of executing ideas, the role of AI in the built environment, and the need for affordable housing solutions. Ken shares insights on how to move from agreement to alignment in personal and professional contexts, emphasizing the importance of intentionality and mentorship. The conversation also highlights the work being done by Trailhead Community to support adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Takeaways

• Ken's journey from consulting to founding Layer 10 was shaped by his experiences and realizations about his true purpose.
• Alignment with personal values, such as faith and family, serves as a guiding light in business decisions.
• Execution is key; ideas alone are not enough to create impact.
• Technology should enhance the user experience in property development, not just be implemented for its own sake.
• Future readiness is more important than future proofing; prepare for inevitable changes in technology.
• AI has the potential to revolutionize architecture and building operations by predicting patterns and improving efficiency.
• The conversion of office spaces to residential is complex and requires careful planning and execution.
• Affordable housing remains a critical issue that requires alignment across various sectors.
• Intentional communication and clear purpose are essential for moving from agreement to alignment in teams.
• Mentorship and seeking guidance from experienced individuals can help navigate challenges in entrepreneurship.

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If you would like to connect with Ken outside of this episode, connect with him on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kenwilkinsonjr/ or learn more about Trailhead Community here: https://www.trailheadcommunity.org/