Building Better Cultures

Have you ever witnessed patterns of communication that didn’t seem helpful or productive in your teams? Leadership and communication go hand in hand, and who better to unravel this intricate relationship than Marsha Acker. As the CEO of Team Catapult, Marsha understands that there is more to leadership than just technical prowess; it’s about understanding people dynamics and creating a safe environment for open and honest communication.  Throughout the episode, Marsha dives into the complexities of leadership and effective communication within teams, self-awareness challenges and discusses the significant shift from individual to systemic thinking, shedding light on the growing popularity of team coaching. Key discussions include: 1.     A self-leadership quest: How to work with other humans 2.     An insight into communication dynamics and the four speech acts 3.     Communication patterns in teams and organisations 4.     The principle of bringing offline conversations into the room 5.     Are leaders holding back from being vulnerable at work? 6.     The edge of leaders in navigating fast-paced business environments 7.     Change management: The importance of explaining the why   8.     The evolution of team coaching and the benefits of coaching as a system 9.     Recommendations for leaders navigating change Plus lots more! With a focus on the evolving nature of leadership in today’s fast-paced environment, Marsha emphasises the importance of embracing vulnerability and diverse perspectives. This episode will help leaders drive positive change, improve communication, and build better organisational cultures by understanding speech acts, introducing shared language, and focusing on team dynamics. “It’s impossible, I think, for any one person to be able to have all the answers anymore. But yet, I think that’s an edge. I think it’s leftover from what we believe we think about leaders and what they’re supposed to be able to do, to what they need to do today.” – Marsha Acker. ABOUT MARSHA ACKER LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marsha-acker-3486a72/ Book: https://buildyourmodel.com/ Work: https://teamcatapult.com/ ABOUT SCOTT McINNES:  Learn more about Scott McInnes, your host and the Founder and Director of Inspiring Change, by clicking here.  ABOUT WORKVIVO:   If you’re struggling with communications in this time of new hybrid workplace conditions, click here to explore Workvivo, a collaboration platform that offers seamless digital integration.  If you enjoyed this podcast, please consider clicking here to rate and review it!  This podcast was proudly produced in partnership with Podlad.com

Can clear communication and the power of the pen have a transformative impact on your business? Absolutely! Get ready to discover all the 'write stuff' as we explore the influence of intentional communication with the founder of High-Value Writing, Erin Lebaqz. In this episode, Erin takes an in-depth look at how leaders can foster trust, respect, and belonging through thoughtful and deliberate writing, creating an environment where people feel supported and acknowledged. Being a good writer isn't solely about getting your message across; it's also about understanding your audience. Erin emphasizes the importance of considering different cultures and generations in your writing and unveils the role of emotion, including the surprising credibility boost that can come from emojis. Key discussions include: The power of writing and the cost of miscommunication Clarity: The key to confusion-free communication Effective communication in a post-pandemic work environment Leadership Models: Can written communication impact organisational culture? Write like a leader: Tips on mastering intentional writing The rising role of emotion in writing Writing for you VS writing for others The key to unlocking your writing confidence  Plus lots more! Erin provides all the tips for avoiding the high cost of miscommunication and shares the secret to boosting your writing confidence, reminding us that writing is situational, which we are all experts on. So, hit play now and get ready to build better cultures through the written word! "The biggest connection in today's world between writing and business success is employee retention. People leave workplaces when they don't feel happy or appreciated or their growth is cared about. And where do we get those messages, through communication." – Erin Lebaqz. ABOUT ERIN LEBAQZ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erinlebacqz/ Work: https://www.highvaluewriting.com/ https://www.youtube.com/@HighValueWriting   Get the High-Value Writing book: https://www.amazon.com/High-Value-Writing-Real-Strategies-Real-World/dp/1667805517 ABOUT SCOTT McINNES:  Learn more about Scott McInnes, your host and the Founder and Director of Inspiring Change, by clicking here.  ABOUT WORKVIVO:   If you're struggling with communications in this time of new hybrid workplace conditions, click here to explore Workvivo, a collaboration platform that offers seamless digital integration.  If you enjoyed this podcast, please consider clicking here to rate and review it!  This podcast was proudly produced in partnership with Podlad.com  

How does the saying go? Is the glass half full, or is it half empty? Now, apply this to DEI in the workplace, and you'll see our guests, Christiane Bisanzio and Aleksandar Damchevski, challenge this very notion. In this episode, Aleks and Christi delve into the evolving landscape of DEI, highlighting the progress made and the work that still needs to be done. This episode revolves around their insightful book, The Other 364 Days, and the profound idea that DEI should not be merely a day-long celebration but a year-round commitment in every workplace. Throughout the discussion, we hear how organisations prioritise external appearances over internal actions, the responsibility of leadership in fostering diversity and inclusion, and the crucial part of setting precise and measurable inclusion goals. Aleks and Christi also reflect on common oversights made during event celebrations like Pride Week and International Women's Day. Key discussions include: The glass half full: A reflection on the progression of DEI Are workplaces becoming more divided or more diverse? Risk VS Opportunity: The two approaches to DEI Who is responsible for driving diverse, equitable and inclusive workplaces? The importance of understanding and addressing internal biases and behaviours to create a more inclusive culture Key pitfalls hindering the success of organisational DEI Initiatives How authenticity can create more hope and drive change Is unconscious bias training ineffective? The flourishing link between DEI and ESG The one simple change that will transform your workplace "DEI is never a destination. It's always a journey. So this is never ending, it never stops, you have new trends, new topics, new themes coming up, but the overall importance of DEI remains." - Christiane Bisanzio. ABOUT CHRISTIANE BISANZIO AND ALEKSANDAR DAMCHEVSKI LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christianebisanzio/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/aleks-damchevski-he-she-they-b5589b20/ Book: https://www.amazon.com/OTHER-364-DAYS-DIVERSITY-INCLUSION/dp/2839939290 ABOUT SCOTT McINNES:  Learn more about Scott McInnes, your host and the Founder and Director of Inspiring Change, by clicking here.  ABOUT WORKVIVO:   If you're struggling with communications in this time of new hybrid workplace conditions, click here to explore Workvivo, a collaboration platform that offers seamless digital integration.  If you enjoyed this podcast, please consider clicking here to rate and review it!  This podcast was proudly produced in partnership with Podlad.com

Workplace culture is as strong as the communication it thrives on and as fragile as a string of miscommunications. Internal communications is the lifeblood of organisations, holding the power to inspire, inform and engage employees. This week, leading internal communications expert and author of ‘Me, Myself and IC’, Emily Hecker, joins Scott to dive right into its indispensable role in shaping organisational culture and unveiling how communication barriers can stunt growth. This episode is packed to the brim with wisdom as Emily reveals how to gain buy-in from senior leaders and master the art of storytelling to drive your business forward. Emily also shares her advice on making internal comms a core business priority, highlighting the need for clear communication expectations within organisations. Key discussions include: Falling in love with the process of storytelling and creating narratives. How to master internal communications. The role of internal communication in shaping organisational culture. The three tiers of communicators within an organisation.  The key to empowering employees to become better communicators. Identifying what effective communication looks like. The impact of the global COVID-19 pandemic on internal communications. Don’y shy away from success: The importance of showcasing successes to prove value. and gain leadership buy-in. How to provide support to leaders to become effective communicators. The three critical elements of effective communication.   Plus lots more! Emily is the embodiment of the power of storytelling, weaving her journey from a writing enthusiast to a corporate communication maestro. This episode is a masterclass on how communication can make or break your workplace culture. So, If you are ready to take the first step towards a more robust, interconnected, and engaged workplace culture, this is a must-listen for you! “Internal communication is the lifeblood of organisations. Many studies show how it influences productivity, performance and satisfaction, all of which are key components to shaping culture.“ – Emily Hecker. ABOUT EMILY HECKER: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emilyhecker/ Work: https://www.emily-hecker.com/ Book: https://www.emily-hecker.com/book ABOUT SCOTT McINNES:  Learn more about Scott McInnes, your host and the Founder and Director of Inspiring Change, by clicking here.  ABOUT WORKVIVO:   If you’re struggling with communications in this time of new hybrid workplace conditions, click here to explore Workvivo, a collaboration platform that offers seamless digital integration.  If you enjoyed this podcast, please consider clicking here to rate and review it!  This podcast was proudly produced in partnership with Podlad.com  

Get ready to blast your workplace culture into new heights with the valuable guidance of this week’s special guest, Eric Stone. Eric is the founder of Clear Path Ventures and an acclaimed author who promises to enlighten your understanding of aligning organisational behaviour with values.  Throughout the discussion, Eric lays out the five pillars of employee engagement and reveals the correlation between increased employee engagement levels and customer loyalty. Eric also tackles the challenge of maintaining a vibrant culture in remote work settings, emphasising the importance of open communication, ongoing training, and recognition. This episode is an invaluable resource for anyone keen on cultivating a thriving and sustainable culture within their organisations. Key discussions include: A non-complicated rundown of workplace culture Five factors to foster a high-performing culture  The hiring process: What a character test can reveal Measuring organisation culture: An introduction to the six-point inspection How employee empowerment can lead to a sustained and unique culture The power of sharing stories within an organisation  Are your employees performing in sync with company values? Is organisational culture maintainable in a hybrid working world? The consequences of mandatory office returns The importance of being intentional in designing and communicating culture Plus lots more! “Any time you have shared values and beliefs, that tends to create really good behaviours. Excellent behaviours over a consistent period of time lead to desirable outcomes.” – Eric Stone. ABOUT ERIC STONE: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-stone-clear-path/ Work: https://clearpathventures.com/   EPISODE RESOURCES: Book: Jumpstart Your Workplace Culture by Eric Stone https://www.ericdstone.com/ ABOUT SCOTT McINNES:  Learn more about Scott McInnes, your host and the Founder and Director of Inspiring Change, by clicking here.  ABOUT WORKVIVO:   If you’re struggling with communications in this time of new hybrid workplace conditions, click here to explore Workvivo, a collaboration platform that offers seamless digital integration.  If you enjoyed this podcast, please consider clicking here to rate and review it!  This podcast was proudly produced in partnership with Podlad.com  

Are you ready to transform your workplace into a haven of well-being? If so, buckle up as Brian Crooke, founder of Workplace Well-being Ireland and Course Director of the Postgrad Certificate in Workplace Wellness at Dublin’s Trinity College, guides us through the ever-evolving landscape of workplace well-being.  From his journey as a ‘recovering’ management consultant to becoming a well-being advocate, Brian reveals the power of understanding and implementing well-being at the workplace and how it is intrinsically linked to an organisation’s vision and business objectives. Brian also delves into the magic of storytelling, the importance of leaders role-modelling healthy behaviours and creating a culture of permission. Key discussions include: 1.     Workplace health promotion: Your well-being goes beyond physical health 2.     The three pillars of well-being 3.     The importance of aligning well-being initiatives with an organisation’s vision and objectives 4.     Building a culture of health: Connecting hard data with human stories 5.     CEOs leading the way: How leaders are fostering supportive working environments 6.     How to set up a well-being champion network for continued success 7.     Incentivising and recognising change agents to drive business performance 8.     A spotlight on Irish businesses promoting and sustaining well-being 9.     How you can start improving workplace well-being Plus lots more! This episode is your essential roadmap to transform your workplace into a well-being hub. Brian generously shares invaluable advice on how to kick-start your well-being journey, offers his blueprint for establishing champion networks destined for success and reveals the inspiring Irish businesses leading the way. “Start with why. Why is this important to you and your organisation? I always try and align what an organisation is doing, from a well-being perspective with their organisation’s vision, and business objectives.” – Brian Crooke. ABOUT BRIAN CROOKE: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/briancrooke Work: https://www.workwellireland.ie/   EPISODE RESOURCES: Article: Harry Goddard, CEO of Deloitte Ireland https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/i-didnt-have-call-read-email-from-work-2-months-harry-goddard/ See Change - Irish organisation dedicated to ending mental health stigma https://seechange.ie/ ABOUT SCOTT McINNES:  Learn more about Scott McInnes, your host and the Founder and Director of Inspiring Change, by clicking here.  ABOUT SINÉAD EGAN: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sineadegan ABOUT WORKVIVO:   If you’re struggling with communications in this time of new hybrid workplace conditions, click here to explore Workvivo, a collaboration platform that offers seamless digital integration.  If you enjoyed this podcast, please consider clicking here to rate and review it!  This podcast was proudly produced in partnership with Podlad.com  

Ever wondered what the secret sauce is for enhancing performance and productivity? Well, wonder no more as culture change catalyst, author and leadership coach Lily Woi is here to unveil how to drive change and boost your working environment. Lily is no stranger to working with multinational companies to drive change and transformation and believes that creating an environment that fosters high performance and productivity requires a people-centred approach. Throughout this discussion, Lily highlights the importance of focusing on people and acknowledging that they are the core of an organisation's success, creating a unified vision for organisational success and building bridges of trust. Key discussions include: 1.     An introduction to Lily Woi 2.     Striking a balance between high-performance and people-centred organisations 3.     Business transformation: the top-down and bottom-up approach 4.     Vulnerability in leadership: the benefits and the risks of being a vulnerable leader 5.     The key to setting up a culture of alignment and the crucial role of internal communications 6.     The value of autonomy, empowerment and accountability in the workplace 7.     How to avoid the cycle of failure 8.     Ways to become a more transparent leader Plus lots more! Lily's leadership and organisational transformation expertise provide a wealth of knowledge for any business looking to improve its culture. Hit play now to learn how to empower, engage and excel from Lily's valuable experience and insights. "Creating a more human-centred approach is often the key to enhancing performance and productivity. You are not able to have a high-performing organisation if you don't focus on your people. They are core to your success."– Lily Woi. ABOUT LILY WOI: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lilywoi/ Work: https://lilywoicoaching.com/ ABOUT SCOTT:  Learn more about Scott McInnes, your host and the Founder and Director of Inspiring Change, by clicking here.  ABOUT WORKVIVO:   If you're struggling with communications in this time of new hybrid workplace conditions, click here to explore Workvivo, a collaboration platform that offers seamless digital integration.  If you enjoyed this podcast, please consider clicking here to rate and review it!  This podcast was proudly produced in partnership with Podlad.com  

Are you striving to become a more courageous leader, challenge the status quo and drive innovation? If so, this latest episode with Joanna Howes, International Coach of the Year and founder of The Change Creators, is for you as we delve into leading with courage, igniting your self-awareness, unlocking high performance and empowering others. We understand that knowing where to turn for guidance can be challenging if you’re in a leadership role and feeling overwhelmed, and that’s why Joanna is here to help. Joanna dives deep into the attributes of courageous leadership, from empowering others and being vulnerable to taking action and creating clarity. Key discussions include: An introduction to Joanna Howes Courageous leadership: stepping into the courageous zone  What does a courageous leader look like?  The relationship with yourself and the importance of looking within  The role of courage when driving change in an organisation  Unlocking strength through vulnerability and setting clear expectations  Leadership 101: the art of communication and listening Is there a difference between high-performance and high achievers?  The value of a growth mindset and why protecting your energy is vital  How you can become more courageous today Plus lots more! With the right mindset and guidance, any leader can learn to be brave and create a better culture in their workplace. Hit play now and get ready to learn how you can transition from a reliant leader to an effective one and get the insights you need to grow and become a courageous leader. “So many leaders think everyone can read their mind and see the world. When you accept they can’t, it’s your responsibility as a leader to paint the picture for them and understand them so they can move forward with you. It takes more time, but it does mean you’ll get the results.” - Joanna Howes. ABOUT JOANNA HOWES: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joannahowes/ Work: https://thechangecreators.com/ ABOUT SCOTT:  Learn more about Scott McInnes, your host and the Founder and Director of Inspiring Change, by clicking here.  ABOUT WORKVIVO:   If you’re struggling with communications in this time of new hybrid workplace conditions, click here to explore Workvivo, a collaboration platform that offers seamless digital integration.  If you enjoyed this podcast, please consider clicking here to rate and review it!  This podcast was proudly produced in partnership with Podlad.com  

Are leaders blaming employees for their own failures? In today's rapidly changing corporate landscape, establishing a strong company culture is more important than ever. Companies that fail to create a sense of purpose and passion risk losing talented employees and alienating consumers. That's where Sonya Shelton comes in. As the CEO and founder of Executive Leadership Consulting, Sonya helps fast-growth companies connect their business strategy with their company culture to maintain growth. In this episode, Sonya provides practical insights into the importance of empowering employees, promoting collaboration, and clarifying internal communications and shares the leadership model that all leaders should be aware of, the Red Thread model. Key discussions include: An introduction to Sonya Shelton The triangle of culture, leadership and strategy How leaders can help employees align with business strategies The pandemic wake-up call: the connection to purpose The five P’s of the Red Thread Leadership Model The power of collaboration within a company How decision-making can impact teams and individuals within an organisation The key to creating intentionality and a positive workplace culture Leadership problems: What leaders need to stop doing right now How to help people align to strategy Plus lots more! Sonya’s expertise and guidance are invaluable for any company striving to build a better culture. Tune in now to discover how to make meaningful connections between your business strategy and company culture and how to empower your employees to be passionate about the company's purpose. “Helping people understand why they're doing what they're doing, and how it's going to help them in their job and help the company ultimately, they'll be on board. If you're putting rules in place, just for the sake of it, and they don't really see the point, they're either not going to do it, or they're not going to be engaged.”– Sonya Shelton. ABOUT SONYA SHELTON: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ceosonyashelton/ Work: https://executiveleader.com/sonya-shelton/ ABOUT SCOTT:  Learn more about Scott McInnes, your host and the Founder and Director of Inspiring Change, by clicking here.  ABOUT WORKVIVO:   If you’re struggling with communications in this time of new hybrid workplace conditions, click here to explore Workvivo, a collaboration platform that offers seamless digital integration.  If you enjoyed this podcast, please consider clicking here to rate and review it!  This podcast was proudly produced in partnership with Podlad.com  

Have you ever wondered how we can approach life as an adventure? In the world of work, a sense of adventure can mean embracing change and uncertainty, taking risks, and being open to new experiences and opportunities. Joining Scott this week to delve into the adventure of leadership and unleashing your inner explorer is Polar explorer and executive coach Sue Stockdale.  With a focus on self-awareness, adaptability, grounding and resilience, Sue emphasises the importance of an adventurous mindset, being comfortable with discomfort and risk-taking, and inspiring teams to drive positive change. Key discussions include:  An introduction to Sue Stockdale  Why you should never be a psychological slasher  Fostering a sense of adventure in the working environment   The characteristics of an adventurous mindset   The importance of self-awareness in business   How to navigate through change in the workplace   The power of honesty and vulnerability   The telling signs of overconfidence  The elastic band of resilience    Plus lots more! Whether you are a leader navigating change or an individual seeking personal growth, this episode offers valuable insights and actionable tips for achieving your goals and building better cultures.  “Inspiration is often an underutilised skill that leaders are not using best to inspire people to change. When our leader is there supporting and encouraging us and sharing and recognising the belief in our potential, that inspires you to want to up your game and do your best for your leader..” – Sue Stockdale.   ABOUT SUE STOCKDALE:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suestockdale/ Work: https://suestockdale.com/    ABOUT SCOTT:   Learn more about Scott McInnes, your host and the Founder and Director of Inspiring Change, by clicking here.   ABOUT WORKVIVO:    If you’re struggling with communications in this time of new hybrid workplace conditions, click here to explore Workvivo, a collaboration platform that offers seamless digital integration.   If you enjoyed this podcast, please consider clicking here to rate and review it!   This podcast was proudly produced in partnership with Podlad.com    

Have you ever had to deal with miscommunications in the workplace?  Are you struggling to keep up with the sheer number of emails you receive daily? Joining Scott this week is communication expert Kim Arnold to shed light on how to connect more effectively.   Kim delves into the world of email communication, explores the impact of poor email etiquette, and shares insights on the use of concise language, tone of voice, accuracy, and the increasing use of emojis in emails. Keep an ear out for Kim’s must-know tips on creating a more human tone that fosters connections and relationships. Key discussions include:  An introduction to Kim Arnold The problems poor email etiquette is creating in business today The impact of COVID-19 on business communication  The overlooked skill of effective writing  The importance of embracing feedback   Generational approaches to communication Do emojis belong in business communications?  Top tips for mastering your work emails   And more!   “We tend to move into formal posh, I’ve got my top button done up, I’ve got my jacket on, and I’m not going to crack a smile here. And people are starting to realise that that doesn’t always create relationships. It doesn’t create connections. It doesn’t build bridges with people because we sound like robots.” – Kim Arnold.   ABOUT KIM ARNOLD: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karnoldcomms/ Work: https://www.kimarnold.co.uk/    ABOUT SCOTT:   Learn more about Scott McInnes, your host and the Founder and Director of Inspiring Change, by clicking here.   ABOUT WORKVIVO:    If you’re struggling with communications in this time of new hybrid workplace conditions, click here to explore Workvivo, a collaboration platform that offers seamless digital integration.   If you enjoyed this podcast, please consider clicking here to rate and review it!   This podcast was proudly produced in partnership with Podlad.com    

We've all heard that knowledge is power—but in the age of the internet, is knowledge still enough? Special guest Katja Schleicher, founder of Impact Communications Coaching, is here to teach us more about the shift from knowledge to emotional selling proposition and the importance of communication in an age of digital media. Get ready to find out how to make your message stand out in the sea of noise and learn techniques for crafting effective communication.   Key discussions include:  An introduction to Katja Schleicher Why effective communication in leadership is essential The biggest barriers to communicating effectively  The art of saying extraordinary things with ordinary words Creating space for psychological safety  The importance of storytelling in business  The key to measuring the effectiveness of communication  How to ignite your communication skills today!   Plus, lots more!  Katja's advice is essential for any leader looking to build better cultures and connect with their audience more deeply. Listen for practical tips on improving your communication skills and making a lasting impact in your organisation.  "Knowledge is not an advantage anymore. Knowledge is a commonality. The difference between success and being mediocre as a company is how you get your message across." – Katja Schleicher.    ABOUT KATJA SCHLEICHER:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/interviewtraining/  Work: https://www.interview-training.eu/en/ | https://www.katjaschleicher.com/   ABOUT SCOTT:   Learn more about Scott McInnes, your host and the Founder and Director of Inspiring Change, by clicking here.   ABOUT WORKVIVO:    If you're struggling with communications in this time of new hybrid workplace conditions, click here to explore Workvivo, a collaboration platform that offers seamless digital integration.   If you enjoyed this podcast, please consider clicking here to rate and review it!   This podcast was proudly produced in partnership with podlad.com 

Do you strive to create an open and honest workplace culture? Author, leadership expert and communication coach Jay Williams is here to share his insights on building a culture of open, honest, and timely communication through the powerful feedback loop. Jay emphasises the importance of emotional engagement and alignment in organisations and offers strategies for developing a solid core in middle management.   Key discussions include:  An introduction to Jay Williams A career shift: When a super worker becomes a supervisor Engagement in the workplace and the role of employee alignment The key components to leaders driving alignment within an organisation How feedback is imperative for success The power of a thought leader within an organisation The framework for receiving effective feedback   Plus, lots more!  This episode offers solutions for executives looking to improve their communication and management skills. So if you are ready to create a more peaceful, collaborative, and productive workplace culture, hit play now!  "I think there is a conversation to be had with your people about how they define success and moving up in the organisation. Because there's a direct correlation between how happy they will be and a happy employee equals a more productive employee." – Jay Williams.    ABOUT JAY WILLIAMS:  https://www.jaywilliamsco.com/  https://www.jaywilliamsco.com/books    ABOUT SCOTT:   Learn more about Scott McInnes, your host and the Founder and Director of Inspiring Change, by clicking here.   ABOUT WORKVIVO:    If you're struggling with communications in this time of new hybrid workplace conditions, click here to explore Workvivo, a collaboration platform that offers seamless digital integration.   If you enjoyed this podcast, please consider clicking here to rate and review it!   This podcast was proudly produced in partnership with podlad.com 

Are you aware of the three employee archetypes? The Keeper, the Leaper, and the Sleeper? If not, prepare to learn about them and how best to engage them. Greg Offner Jr. – speaker, coach and consultant is here to share his fascinating insights on the psychology of change in organizations and how to disrupt the norm to create sustainable change.   Drawing on his experience as a duelling piano performer, Gregory intertwines principles used in the world of piano bars with the business world to make work more enjoyable. Gregory shares the importance of prioritizing skill development and the need for a culture shift that starts from the top but is endorsed and expected at all company levels.   Key discussions include:  Taking the irk out of work! The importance of disrupting the norm in business How to become the organization that everyone wants on their resume Employee advocacy and the rise of boomerang employees The power of incentives in the workplace   Plus, lots more!  If you are eager to learn how to create a culture of engagement and enjoyment while improving your organization's bottom line, this episode is a must-listen for you!   "Work is eight hours if we're lucky of our life every day. And not everybody gets to do something they love. But couldn't you at least like it? I mean, what's wrong with trying to make work a little more likable? And so that's what I do." – Gregory Offner Jr.   ABOUT GREGORY OFFNER JR:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gregoryoffnerjr/ Work: https://www.gregoryoffner.com/   ABOUT SCOTT:   Learn more about Scott McInnes, your host and the Founder and Director of Inspiring Change, by clicking here.   ABOUT WORKVIVO:    If you're struggling with communications in this time of new hybrid workplace conditions, click here to explore Workvivo, a collaboration platform that offers seamless digital integration.   If you enjoyed this podcast, please consider clicking here to rate and review it!   This podcast was proudly produced in partnership with podlad.com 

Is your organisation drowning in a sea of Human Resources policies? Are you tired of the stagnant work culture norms? Is this war of talent and high employee turnover era worrying you? If so, this episode is for you! Corporate culture and engagement specialist Paul Ter Wal is here to guide you on creating a positive culture, making your organisation a wonderful place to work and succeed.    Paul Ter Wal is the managing partner of Andare Consulting and is a celebrated international speaker specialising in culture and engagement. In this episode, Paul serves you invaluable advice on creating a culture of care. He unveils the power of purpose and core values, the benefits of investing in listening and trust and reveals why shareholders must make short-term sacrifices for long-term success. Key discussions include:  An introduction to Paul Ter Wal Is customer experience overshadowing employee experience? Language matters: it’s time to stop using the term human resources. The importance of infusing core values when onboarding employees. Belonging in the workplace and the elastic band of resilience. Integrating sustainability into your business.   Plus lots more!   Are you ready to learn how to improve employee engagement, foster resilience, and create a workplace where employees want to stay? Well, go ahead and hit play now!   “We need to change our perspective, from the short term of gaining a lot of money to a longer period of time, and invest in trust and then engagement, and then see that the productivity will go up.” – Paul Ter Wal.   ABOUT PAUL TER WAL:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulterwal/ Work: https://www.paulterwal.nl/ | https://team-andare.com/    ABOUT SCOTT:   Learn more about Scott McInnes, your host and the Founder and Director of Inspiring Change, by clicking here.   ABOUT WORKVIVO:    If you’re struggling with communications in this time of new hybrid workplace conditions, click here to explore Workvivo, a collaboration platform that offers seamless digital integration.   If you enjoyed this podcast, please consider clicking here to rate and review it!    

Is your organisation on a mission to achieve true inclusion and belonging but struggling to know where to begin? If so, this episode is for you!   Joining Scott to discuss inclusive leadership and the secret to transformational change is special guest Sophia Kristjansson. Sophia is a US-based with UK university roots, founder of Lexicon Lens, A DEI people development and change professional, and author. Throughout the discussion, Sophia offers valuable advice and practical tips that you can implement today to build more inclusive cultures. Sophia also explores the power of uniqueness,  the importance of gaining bias awareness, and the role of values within inclusive cultures.   Key discussions include: The equation to building a sense of belonging in the workplace How people leaders are a catalyst for businesses Diversity and inclusion: is there a difference between the two? How leaders and teams can discover unconscious biases in the workplace Building inclusive cultures: The role of values within an organisation   Plus lots more!  This enlightening discussion will teach you the secret recipe to a more inclusive and diverse workplace. Hit that play button now to learn how to empower your employees and drive your organisation’s success!   “If you don’t have diverse perspectives, if you don’t have different kinds of people in all layers of your business, you are basically leaving money on the table and saying, I really don’t care about that.” - Sophia Kristjansson.   ABOUT SOPHIA KRISTJANSSON:  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophiakristjansson   Book: https://www.transformationalchangebook.com/buy-book   Work: http://lexiconleadership.com/    ABOUT SCOTT:   Learn more about Scott McInnes, your host and the Founder and Director of Inspiring Change, by click here.   ABOUT WORKVIVO:    If you’re struggling with communications in this time of new hybrid workplace conditions, click here to explore Workvivo, a collaboration platform that offers seamless digital integration.   If you enjoyed this podcast, please consider clicking here to rate and review it!   This podcast is produced in partnership with podlad.com 

On our latest episode of the Building Better Cultures podcast, we speak to Dan Sodergren. Dan is the Co-Founder of YourFLOCK. This SaaS platform helps teams to grow by finding the best-fit candidates and maximising their value to your unique team based on culture. In this episode, we talk about organizational culture, employee engagement, and remote vs hybrid work.  Key discussions: 1. How leaders can use culture as a tool to drive employee engagement and productivity.  2. Effective strategies and best practices for improving engagement among your employees.  3. What you should do to avoid common challenges to achieve high levels of engagement in the workplace. And lots more! Whether you're a business owner, People Leader, HR professional, or employee, this episode will give listeners a deeper understanding of culture's role in the modern workplace. DAN'S LINKS:  Company: https://yourflock.co.uk/ TEDx Talk: The Future Of Work: https://www.youtube.com/watch?time_continue=1&v=uiZJkod7h-4&feature=emb_title  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dan-sodergren-futureofwork/    ABOUT SCOTT:  Learn more about Scott McInnes, your host and the Founder and Director of Inspiring Change, by clicking here.      ABOUT WORKVIVO:   If you're struggling with communications in this time of new hybrid workplace conditions, click here to explore Workvivo, a collaboration platform that offers seamless digital integration.    If you enjoyed this podcast, please consider clicking here to rate and review it! 

Do you think storytelling has no place at work? That it’s just a fluffy exercise that doesn’t deliver results? Then, the latest guest on the Building Better Culture podcast, Richard Newman, the Founder and CEO of BodyTalk, says, “You’re missing the point!” Richard shares that for a millennia, the human brain has learned to sequence and process information delivered as a story, but HOW that story is told makes all the DIFFERENCE. We learn about the neuroscience behind effective communication to yield actionable results and fully engage your people. You’ll learn how to blast through denial, overcome the brain’s resistance to change and avoid “non-verbal leakage.” It transforms workplace cultures by delivering information in ways our brains can receive process, and act upon – with the kinds of epic outcomes your corporate leaders will doubtless remember. Heroic journeys start in small daily interactions, and Richard is here to share some of the tools most critical tools set that stage.  KEY INSIGHTS: >>> Focus on storytelling as a vehicle for connection.  >>> It’s critical to understand how the logical and emotional minds differ when it comes to interacting with information, depending on how its delivered.  >>> Stories that fail? They are stories that make you, your company, product or service the hero.   >>> Stories that succeed? Those that deliver a compelling hero’s journey through the eyes of the listeners – the recipients of your intended message.   >>> Non-Verbal Leakage: Body language, tone and words need to be in complete alignment. If they are incongruent, the effect is inauthentic and can generate distrust. Humans respond viscerally to energy and subtext.  >>> Start Small: The quickest way to break down resistance to storytelling in the workplace is to integrate it into every daily interaction. It’s not a heroic tale, but a framework to deliver information in ways that the brains of others can accept, process and act upon.  FURTHER RESOURCES: >>> "Thinking Fast and Slow," by Daniel Kahneman.  ABOUT RICHARD:  Company: https://ukbodytalk.com/ Book: https://www.amazon.co.uk/gp/product/191645920X  Podcast: LIFT with Richard Newman LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardnewmanspeaks/  ABOUT SCOTT: Learn more about Scott McInnes, your host and the Founder and Director of Inspiring Change, by clicking here.  ABOUT WORKVIVO:  If you’re struggling with communications in this time of new hybrid workplace conditions, click here to explore Workvivo, a collaboration platform that offers seamless digital integration.  If you enjoyed this podcast, please consider clicking here to rate and review it! 

On this episode of the Building Better Cultures podcast, we drill down on the pivotal role that empathy plays in the workplace – especially in this time of remote work and back-to-back-to-back Zoom interactions. It’s about understanding someone else’s perspective, yes. But equally important is the ability to fully and non-judgmentally inhabit another person’s shoes, then communicate back in ways that create meaningful connection.  Our guest Rob Volpe, CEO of Ignite 360, is an “empathy activist” who consults with businesses struggling to weave understanding and compassion into workplace cultures. With his Five Steps to Build + Apply Empathy at Work, Rob shows leaders how to integrate simple – but transformational – practices to embody your brand and build self-awareness among teams across the enterprise. Studies show that organisations that prioritise empathy generate more loyalty, innovation and inclusivity among employees. You’ll come away from this episode with a keen understanding of how to listen with full awareness as well as specific exercises to build your empathy muscle and invite authentic communication at every level of your business.  KEY INSIGHTS:  1. The Empathy Crisis: Many leaders find it difficult to connect with personal perspectives and are untrained in the art of leveraging the power of storytelling in the workplace.   2. Leaders who promote empathy in the workplace see significant increases in loyalty, innovation and inclusivity among team members.  3. There is a difference between emotional empathy and cognitive empathy – one that many old-school leaders don’t fully understand, resulting in unfounded fears about losing respect.  4. Rob’s Macro-Level Framework:  - Bring self-awareness in deciding how to show up.  - Have the courage to practice empathy.  - Adopt The Five Steps, which require practice and inevitable stumbles.  - Offer yourself grace and forgiveness.    5. Rob’s Five Steps to Empathy:  - Dismantle judgment: Notice negativity and resist casting aspersion. - Reframe Questions: Skip “why” – with its negative, closed associations and undertones.  - Listen Actively: Be present and use all your senses to take in what others are saying. - Integrate Understanding: Stay open to and curious about divergent points of view. - Use Solution Imagination: Take what you’ve heard to advance the conversation, closing the gap between knowledge and action.   >>> Rob’s Top Tip: Be courageous. Empathy is acquired one step at a time!  LINKS:  Company: https://www.ignite-360.com Book: https://www.5stepstoempathy.com  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rmvolpe/  ABOUT SCOTT:  Learn more about Scott McInnes, your host and the Founder and Director of Inspiring Change, by clicking here.     ABOUT WORKVIVO:   If you’re struggling with communications in this time of new hybrid workplace conditions, click here to explore Workvivo, a collaboration platform that offers seamless digital integration.  If you enjoyed this podcast, please consider clicking here to rate and review it! 

In this episode of the Building Better Cultures podcast, we learn about the principles of Raw Leadership, how to lean into your authentic power as a leader and how to create better organisational cultures that your employees want to participate in. Our guest is Colleen Bashar, is the Senior VP of Global Solution Sales for Guidewire Software; a cloud-based service that efficiently combines digital, core, analytics, and AI to deliver results to clients. Colleen walks us through her 16-year journey at the company, where she started as a sales consultant, to her current position as a people leader and how she effectively manages a team of over 150 people. KEY INSIGHTS: >>> What ‘Raw Leadership’ is, and its three core values: Curiosity, Authenticity and Vulnerability. >>> The importance of investing and reflecting on yourself as a leader to help you lean into your authentic self. >>> Why practicing self-awareness is incredibly powerful. LINKS: GuideWire LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/guidewire-software/  Colleen’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colleenscott/  ABOUT SCOTT: Learn more about Scott McInnes, your host and the Founder and Director of Inspiring Change, by clicking here. ABOUT OUR SPONSOR - WORKVIVO: If you’re struggling with communications in this time of new hybrid workplace conditions, click here to explore Workvivo, a collaboration platform that offers seamless digital integration.