Lead the People

In this episode, Matt Poepsel sits down with Daphne to discuss The Leadership Trilogy, a three-book collection designed to help leaders at every level lead with clarity and confidence. They explore the critical shift from “tasking” to “coaching,” empowering a stressed team through simple changes in conversation, and commanding executive presence regardless of one’s official title. In this episode, you’ll learn: The Coaching Mindset: How to move beyond task-checking & spark real growth Getting employees to buy-in by connecting daily work to the big picture Commanding a room and building credibility, title or no title Helping everyone understand the way the business actually works Highlights: (00:00) What Coaching Really Means(00:49) Meet Daphne B. Latimore(02:01) The employee journey as an ecosystem(07:16) Relate and equate(12:46) Behavior as the driver of culture(16:03) Coaching mindset for managers(23:13) Demystifying executive presence(23:26) Leading without a title Resources: Follow Daphne on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daphneblatimore/Daphne’s website: https://dblatimore.com/ Follow Matt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattpoepsel/ Follow Predictive Index on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-predictive-index/ Subscribe to The Predictive Index on YouTube! https://youtube.com/@thepredictiveindex?si=zyj8aS18Z_1HMrVp Created in partnership with Share Your Genius: https://shareyourgenius.com/

Jevon Wooden, CEO of BrightMind Consulting Group, is a speaker, coach, and author of two books, including From Functional to Phenomenal. A Bronze Star recipient and Army veteran, his expertise in leadership and business strategy has been featured in Forbes, Inc., and Fast Company. Key Takeaways: Many new managers are promoted for technical excellence but receive little leadership training. Empathy and emotional intelligence are essential for navigating pressure from both executives and teams. Uncertainty becomes opportunity when leaders focus on what they can control and stay curious. Clarity starts by defining the real problem and accurately labeling emotions before acting. Strong cultures are built by understanding people’s motivations, communication styles, and sense of belonging. From Our Sponsor: The Predictive Index (PI) is an award-winning talent optimization platform that aligns business strategy with people strategy for optimal business results. More than 60 years of proven science, software, and a curriculum of insightful management workshops make PI the solution for any company looking to design great teams and culture, make objective hiring decisions, foster engagement, and inspire greatness in their people anywhere in the world. More than 10,000 clients and 480+ partners use PI, including Nissan, Citizens Bank, Subway, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Omni Hotels, across 90+ countries. Learn more at predictiveindex.com. Additional Resources: Follow Jevon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jevonwooden/ Follow Jevon on Instagram: https://instagram.com/jevonspeaks From Functional to Phenomenal (book): https://jevonwooden.com/functionaltophenomenal/ Follow Matt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattpoepsel/ Subscribe to The Predictive Index on YouTube! https://youtube.com/@thepredictiveindex?si=zyj8aS18Z_1HMrVp Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network/posts/?feedView=all Learn more about PeopleForward Network: http://www.peopleforwardnetwork.com/

Alaina G. Levine, CSP, is a professional speaker, corporate comedian, science writer, coach, and author of books, including Networking for Nerds, which beat out Einstein for an award (REALLY!), and Create Your Unicorn Career. As an expert in STEM workforce and career development, she travels the planet collaborating with organizations who want to recruit, retain, and grow their STEM talent and leverage the power of their STEM unicorns. NASA said she is worth her weight in gold! She has spoken 1000+ times for clients in 35 US states, 16 nations and on 5 continents, and has written 500+ articles for publications like Scientific American, National Geographic News Watch, and the World Economic Forum. Alaina is the winner of over 20 business awards, including the Tucson Leader of the Year award (previously bestowed upon a former US Surgeon General), and the Johnson Lecturer in Science Communications at Penn State University. She studied Arabic, Egyptology, and mathematics at the American University in Cairo as a US Department of Defense Boren Fellow, and holds bachelors degrees in mathematics and anthropology from the University of Arizona. And here's a fun fact: as an undergraduate, she was a championship billiards player and competed in national tournaments under her nickname, Lady Dyn-o-mite. Key Takeaways: New managers need support and permission to lead with empathy. Leaders often default to outdated or ineffective management styles. Safe, people-first cultures lead to better team performance. Accountability and kindness can go hand in hand. Simple tools help managers gain confidence and clarity. From Our Sponsor: The Predictive Index (PI) is an award-winning talent optimization platform that aligns business strategy with people strategy for optimal business results. More than 60 years of proven science, software, and a curriculum of insightful management workshops make PI the solution for any company looking to design great teams and culture, make objective hiring decisions, foster engagement, and inspire greatness in their people anywhere in the world. More than 10,000 clients and 480+ partners use PI, including Nissan, Citizens Bank, Subway, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Omni Hotels, across 90+ countries. Learn more at predictiveindex.com. Additional Resources: Follow Alaina on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alainaglevine/ Follow Alaina on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/alaina.levine Follow Alaina on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/alainaglevine/  Visit her website: https://alainalevine.com/  Take a look at her book: https://www.amazon.com/Create-Your-Unicorn-Career-Practical/dp/B0GDRNNG8G/ Email Alaina: alaina@alainalevine.com Follow Matt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattpoepsel/ Subscribe to The Predictive Index on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@thepredictiveindex?si=zyj8aS18Z_1HMrVp Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network/posts/?feedView=all Learn more about PeopleForward Network: http://www.peopleforwardnetwork.com/

Daria Rudnik is a Team Architect and Executive Leadership Coach, author of CLICKING, and co-author of The AI Revolution. A former Chief People Officer and ex-Deloitte professional, she brings over 15 years of international executive experience. Having lived in three countries and worked with clients across six continents, Daria has helped leaders from Fortune 500 companies and fast-growing startups navigate global financial crises, wars, and the COVID-19 pandemic. Daria helps leaders build high-performing teams in a world of rapid change and disruption. She does this through a mix of team and leadership coaching, and an AI-powered coaching tool she developed. Key Takeaways: Daria emphasizes that HR should be viewed as a strategic partner, not just an administrative function. She shares how building trust and understanding business needs are essential for HR to add value. The importance of giving and receiving feedback is discussed as a growth opportunity. Daria reflects on how career transitions can be powerful moments for reflection and alignment. She highlights the need to balance structure with adaptability when building people strategies. From Our Sponsor: The Predictive Index (PI) is an award-winning talent optimization platform that aligns business strategy with people strategy for optimal business results. More than 60 years of proven science, software, and a curriculum of insightful management workshops make PI the solution for any company looking to design great teams and culture, make objective hiring decisions, foster engagement, and inspire greatness in their people anywhere in the world. More than 10,000 clients and 480+ partners use PI, including Nissan, Citizens Bank, Subway, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Omni Hotels, across 90+ countries. Learn more at predictiveindex.com. Additional Resources: Follow Daria on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dariarudnik Follow Matt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattpoepsel/ Subscribe to The Predictive Index on YouTube! https://youtube.com/@thepredictiveindex?si=zyj8aS18Z_1HMrVp Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network/posts/?feedView=all Learn more about PeopleForward Network: http://www.peopleforwardnetwork.com/

Cristina Amigoni is a leadership, culture, and team transformation expert, author of The Authenticity Upgrade: Rebooting Leadership for Real Humans, and co-founder of Siamo, a human-centric leadership and culture consultancy. Her work focuses on helping leaders and teams communicate more effectively, navigate change with less friction, and build cultures grounded in trust, clarity, and connection. Cristina brings together emotional intelligence, deep listening, and real-world organizational experience to help leaders understand how human behavior shapes performance. She is the creator of the LAVA communication framework (Listening, Acknowledging, Validating, Asking Open-Ended Questions) and integrates tools like Working Genius to strengthen team cohesion and collaboration. She is also the co-host of the podcast Uncover the Human, where she explores authenticity, leadership, and what it takes to build workplaces that work for real humans. Alex Cullimore is the co-founder of Siamo and co-host of the podcast "Uncover the Human," both of which explore how to work with human nature rather than against it. Through a winding career path through writing, consulting, coaching, coding, and even comedy, Alex has focused on finding the truth and humor in life to help everyone live a little better. When he is not coaching, consulting, or writing, Alex enjoys learning new languages, traveling, painting, creating acronyms, and caring for his six cats. Key Takeaways: Slowing down creates space for reflection and intentional action. Psychological safety is key to authentic contribution and trust. Leaders grow by staying present instead of fixing everything. Coaching helps align values with behavior. People perform better when they feel heard and trusted. From Our Sponsor: The Predictive Index (PI) is an award-winning talent optimization platform that aligns business strategy with people strategy for optimal business results. More than 60 years of proven science, software, and a curriculum of insightful management workshops make PI the solution for any company looking to design great teams and culture, make objective hiring decisions, foster engagement, and inspire greatness in their people anywhere in the world. More than 10,000 clients and 480+ partners use PI, including Nissan, Citizens Bank, Subway, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Omni Hotels, across 90+ countries. Learn more at predictiveindex.com. Additional Resources: Follow Cristina on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cristina-amigoni/  Follow Alex on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexcullimore/ Visit their website: https://www.wearesiamo.com Listen to their podcast: https://www.wearesiamo.com/our-podcast Check out their book: https://a.co/d/6ECOZys Follow Matt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattpoepsel/ Subscribe to The Predictive Index on YouTube! https://youtube.com/@thepredictiveindex?si=zyj8aS18Z_1HMrVp Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network/posts/?feedView=all Learn more about PeopleForward Network: http://www.peopleforwardnetwork.com/

Faisal Hoque is a best-selling author, serial entrepreneur, and futurist focused on guiding leaders through transformation and disruption. In this episode, he explores the intersection of mindfulness, innovation, and sustainable leadership, drawing on decades of experience building companies, writing influential books, and navigating systems change. Faisal emphasizes the importance of aligning internal purpose with external impact, grounding leadership in awareness and resilience, and staying adaptive amid rapid change. Through thoughtful dialogue and powerful stories, he shares how leaders can cultivate clarity, foster trust, and move from reactivity to intentionality in both business and life. Key Takeaways: Mindfulness creates the foundation for sustainable leadership. Leaders must align inner clarity with external impact. Disruption is constant resilience and adaptability are critical. Purpose-driven innovation leads to long-term transformation. Trust and emotional awareness are essential for leading change. From Our Sponsor: The Predictive Index (PI) is an award-winning talent optimization platform that aligns business strategy with people strategy for optimal business results. More than 60 years of proven science, software, and a curriculum of insightful management workshops make PI the solution for any company looking to design great teams and culture, make objective hiring decisions, foster engagement, and inspire greatness in their people anywhere in the world. More than 10,000 clients and 480+ partners use PI, including Nissan, Citizens Bank, Subway, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Omni Hotels, across 90+ countries. Learn more at predictiveindex.com. Additional Resources: Follow Faisal on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/faisalhoque/ Visit Faisal’s website: https://faisalhoque.com/ Listen to Faisal’s podcast: https://faisalhoque.com/podcasts/ Follow Matt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattpoepsel/ Subscribe to The Predictive Index on YouTube! https://youtube.com/@thepredictiveindex?si=zyj8aS18Z_1HMrVp Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network/posts/?feedView=all Learn more about PeopleForward Network: http://www.peopleforwardnetwork.com/

Dr. Jeffrey Yip is a business school professor at Simon Fraser University and a leadership scholar known for his Listen and Build approach to leading change. Through his work with executive leaders and organizations, Jeffrey helps people rethink resistance, not as something to push through, but as a signal that something meaningful is happening beneath the surface. In this episode, he explores how resistance shows up in the nervous system when change feels threatening, and why anxiety and exhaustion are at the heart of so much organizational pushback. Drawing on real-world leadership examples, he introduces the concept of “pain storming” and shows how listening first creates clarity, trust, and momentum. With a grounded and human-centered perspective, Jeffrey offers leaders a practical way to navigate change by understanding people before trying to move them. Key Takeaways: Resistance is a signal, not a flaw, it shows where something feels unsafe or unresolved. Change feels hardest when it threatens security, competence, or control. Listening first helps leaders move faster with less friction. Real progress starts by understanding the problem before jumping to solutions. Effective change comes from leading people, not just managing process. From Our Sponsor: The Predictive Index (PI) is an award-winning talent optimization platform that aligns business strategy with people strategy for optimal business results. More than 60 years of proven science, software, and a curriculum of insightful management workshops make PI the solution for any company looking to design great teams and culture, make objective hiring decisions, foster engagement, and inspire greatness in their people anywhere in the world. More than 10,000 clients and 480+ partners use PI, including Nissan, Citizens Bank, Subway, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Omni Hotels, across 90+ countries. Learn more at predictiveindex.com. Additional Resources: Jeffrey Yip, Ph.D. Associate Professor, Simon Fraser University: https://www.linkedin.com/in/yipjeffrey/ Check out Listening Works: https://www.listeningworks.ca/ Take a look at Jeffrey’s blog: https://www.psychologytoday.com/nz/blog/listen-and-build Follow Matt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattpoepsel/ Subscribe to The Predictive Index on YouTube! https://youtube.com/@thepredictiveindex?si=zyj8aS18Z_1HMrVp Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network/posts/?feedView=all Learn more about PeopleForward Network: http://www.peopleforwardnetwork.com/

JM Ryerson is a leadership and performance coach, international speaker, and host of the Let’s Go Win podcast. Through his Win From Within coaching framework, JM helps growth-minded leaders and teams align their values, master their mindset, and make intentional choices that drive both business success and personal fulfillment. With experience building and selling multiple companies, JM blends real-world entrepreneurship with powerful self-leadership strategies, focusing on the pillars of strength, energy, love, and freedom. His practical approach empowers professionals to double revenue, build thriving cultures, and achieve true harmony in work and life. Key Takeaways: Winning starts with aligning actions to core values. Self-leadership is the foundation of sustainable success. High performance depends on clarity, consistency, and energy. Vulnerability builds stronger leadership and deeper trust. You can win in business without losing at life. From Our Sponsor: The Predictive Index (PI) is an award-winning talent optimization platform that aligns business strategy with people strategy for optimal business results. More than 60 years of proven science, software, and a curriculum of insightful management workshops make PI the solution for any company looking to design great teams and culture, make objective hiring decisions, foster engagement, and inspire greatness in their people anywhere in the world. More than 10,000 clients and 480+ partners use PI, including Nissan, Citizens Bank, Subway, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Omni Hotels, across 90+ countries. Learn more at predictiveindex.com. Additional Resources: JM Ryerson, CEO/Founder, Let's Go Win: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jm-ryerson/ Follow Matt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattpoepsel/ Subscribe to The Predictive Index on YouTube! https://youtube.com/@thepredictiveindex?si=zyj8aS18Z_1HMrVp Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network/posts/?feedView=all Learn more about PeopleForward Network: http://www.peopleforwardnetwork.com/

Ashley Herd is the founder of Manager Method, a platform designed to help new and experienced leaders navigate the complexities of people management with confidence and clarity. Drawing from her background in law, HR, and corporate leadership, Ashley brings a practical, human-centered approach to managing teams. In this episode, she shares strategies for setting boundaries, delivering feedback, and navigating difficult conversations, especially for leaders who feel overwhelmed by the emotional demands of management. Ashley emphasizes the importance of scripting, preparation, and self-awareness in developing confidence, helping leaders balance authenticity with clarity. With actionable tips and real-world examples, Ashley empowers managers to lead with empathy, communicate effectively, and build trust within their teams. Key Takeaways: Setting boundaries helps managers protect their energy and lead with confidence. Preparing what to say in advance makes tough conversations easier. Feedback builds trust when it’s clear, specific, and kind. Overwhelm is common for new managers but can be reduced with mindset shifts. Clarity and kindness can go together in effective leadership. From Our Sponsor: The Predictive Index (PI) is an award-winning talent optimization platform that aligns business strategy with people strategy for optimal business results. More than 60 years of proven science, software, and a curriculum of insightful management workshops make PI the solution for any company looking to design great teams and culture, make objective hiring decisions, foster engagement, and inspire greatness in their people anywhere in the world. More than 10,000 clients and 480+ partners use PI, including Nissan, Citizens Bank, Subway, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Omni Hotels, across 90+ countries. Learn more at predictiveindex.com. Additional Resources: Follow Ashley on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyherd/ Visit Ashley’s website: http://managermethod.com/ Take a look at Ashley’s book: http://managermethod.com/book Follow Matt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattpoepsel/ Subscribe to The Predictive Index on YouTube! https://youtube.com/@thepredictiveindex?si=zyj8aS18Z_1HMrVp Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network/posts/?feedView=all Learn more about PeopleForward Network: http://www.peopleforwardnetwork.com/

Sophie Wade is a work futurist, thought leader, and author focused on evolving workplaces for today’s dynamic environment. Through her advisory, writing, and speaking, she helps leaders navigate the shift toward empathy-led business practices and flexible, human-centric work models. Drawing on her global business background and research, Sophie emphasizes the importance of trust, connection, and intentionality in leading modern teams. She works with companies to build inclusive cultures, empower diverse talent, and embrace the fluidity of today’s workforce realities. Her insights guide leaders in designing work environments where people and performance thrive together. Key Takeaways: Empathy is a crucial leadership skill in the modern workplace. Flexibility and adaptability help businesses stay competitive. Human-centric work models improve engagement and retention. Trust and connection are foundational for team success. Future-ready leaders embrace continuous learning and change. From Our Sponsor: The Predictive Index (PI) is an award-winning talent optimization platform that aligns business strategy with people strategy for optimal business results. More than 60 years of proven science, software, and a curriculum of insightful management workshops make PI the solution for any company looking to design great teams and culture, make objective hiring decisions, foster engagement, and inspire greatness in their people anywhere in the world. More than 10,000 clients and 480+ partners use PI, including Nissan, Citizens Bank, Subway, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Omni Hotels, across 90+ countries. Learn more at predictiveindex.com. Additional Resources: Follow Sophie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/a-sophie-wade/ Check out Modern Work Life: https://www.modernworklife.co/ Follow Matt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattpoepsel/ Subscribe to The Predictive Index on YouTube! https://youtube.com/@thepredictiveindex?si=zyj8aS18Z_1HMrVp Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network/posts/?feedView=all Learn more about PeopleForward Network: http://www.peopleforwardnetwork.com/  

Nancy Burger is a thought transformation expert, keynote speaker, and executive coach who helps leaders and teams rewire limiting thought patterns to unlock breakthrough performance. A former Wall Street banker turned professional writer, Nancy blends neuroscience, behavioral psychology, and storytelling to show how changing our inner dialog changes everything from collaboration to culture to results. Her work centers on helping leaders build awareness around emotions, replace default thought patterns with intentional choices, and create environments grounded in trust, curiosity, and growth. Through her coaching, workshops, and keynote experiences, Nancy equips executives and managers with practical tools to navigate overwhelm, challenge imposter thinking, and model vulnerability in ways that strengthen team connection and drive healthier, more sustainable performance. Key Takeaways: Leaders cannot control feelings, but they can choose their thoughts and responses. Vulnerability builds trust. Ask your team “more of, less of, start, stop.” Reframe problems as learning and growth opportunities. Rewiring thought patterns takes consistent practice for about 2 to 6 weeks. In difficult moments, stay curious and ask for examples before responding. From Our Sponsor: The Predictive Index (PI) is an award-winning talent optimization platform that aligns business strategy with people strategy for optimal business results. More than 60 years of proven science, software, and a curriculum of insightful management workshops make PI the solution for any company looking to design great teams and culture, make objective hiring decisions, foster engagement, and inspire greatness in their people anywhere in the world. More than 10,000 clients and 480+ partners use PI, including Nissan, Citizens Bank, Subway, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Omni Hotels, across 90+ countries. Learn more at predictiveindex.com. Additional Resources: Nancy Burger, Speaker, Thought Transformation Expert & Executive Coach: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancy-burger-commstrategist/ Follow Matt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattpoepsel/ Subscribe to The Predictive Index on YouTube! https://youtube.com/@thepredictiveindex?si=zyj8aS18Z_1HMrVp Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network/posts/?feedView=all Learn more about PeopleForward Network: http://www.peopleforwardnetwork.com/

Malissa Clark is a Professor of industrial/organizational (I-O) psychology at the University of Georgia, where she has been on faculty since 2013. Currently, she serves as Head of the department of psychology and director of the Healthy Work Lab. Recently selected as a member of the 2024 Thinkers 50 Radar list and a finalist for the 2025 Thinkers50 Radar Award, Malissa is a recognized expert on the topics of workaholism, overwork, burnout, and employee well-being. Her first book, Never Not Working: Why the Always-On Culture Is Bad for Business and How to Fix It, was published in February 2024. Never Not Working has been recognized as one of the top management books of 2024, including being named one of Adam Grant’s 12 New Idea Books to Launch in 2024 and top 5 Porchlight Books Best Management and Workplace Culture Books of 2024. Key Takeaways: Workaholism is not the same as working long hours True workaholism stems from an uncontrollable internal drive Overworking often leads to burnout and reduced productivity Cultural norms can glamorize unhealthy work habits Leaders must model and support healthy boundaries From Our Sponsor: The Predictive Index (PI) is an award-winning talent optimization platform that aligns business strategy with people strategy for optimal business results. More than 60 years of proven science, software, and a curriculum of insightful management workshops make PI the solution for any company looking to design great teams and culture, make objective hiring decisions, foster engagement, and inspire greatness in their people anywhere in the world. More than 10,000 clients and 480+ partners use PI—including Nissan, Citizens Bank, Subway, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Omni Hotels—across 90+ countries. Learn more at predictiveindex.com. Additional Resources: Malissa Clark, Author, “Never Not Working” https://a.co/d/e5HSRpd Follow Malissa on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/malissa-clark-phd/ Follow Matt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattpoepsel/ Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network/posts/?feedView=all Learn more about PeopleForward Network: http://www.peopleforwardnetwork.com/

George Pesansky is a recognized leader in Operational Excellence, with a career spanning more than 30 years in performance optimization, executive coaching, and systematic improvement. He has trained and coached over 10,000 professionals across six continents and helped Fortune 500 companies and nonprofits alike drive measurable results. He is the founder of Capacity2Care, a nonprofit encouraging Superperformers to donate their talent—not just their time—to improve outcomes in their communities. Known for his clarity, candor, and hands-on approach, George is now bringing his best practices to readers everywhere with Superperformance. George is also a member of Forbes Coaches Council as well as Fast Company Executive Board. Key Takeaways: Superperformance grows from aligning vision, strategy, and action with the people doing the work The golden hour shows when performance peaks and how to extend it Zero loss is about sustaining ideal performance, not perfection Friction comes from communication gaps, variation, and rework Studying what goes right is as important as fixing what goes wrong From Our Sponsor: The Predictive Index (PI) is an award-winning talent optimization platform that aligns business strategy with people strategy for optimal business results. More than 60 years of proven science, software, and a curriculum of insightful management workshops make PI the solution for any company looking to design great teams and culture, make objective hiring decisions, foster engagement, and inspire greatness in their people anywhere in the world. More than 10,000 clients and 480+ partners use PI—including Nissan, Citizens Bank, Subway, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Omni Hotels—across 90+ countries. Learn more at predictiveindex.com. Additional Resources: George Pesansky, President, MyBlendedLearning.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/deliberateimprovement/ Follow Matt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattpoepsel/ Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network/posts/?feedView=all Learn more about PeopleForward Network: http://www.peopleforwardnetwork.com/

In this episode, Rachel Downey shares how leaders can move from being invisible to truly influential by owning and expressing their leadership brand. Drawing from her work across creative industries and executive teams, Rachel explains why brand is more than visuals, it’s about voice, values, and showing up with clarity. She breaks down the internal blocks that keep leaders from sharing their story, how content can scale trust, and why authenticity starts with knowing what you believe. Whether you’re leading a team or a movement, this conversation offers a practical look at building influence from the inside out. Key Takeaways: Your brand is how you show up whether you realize it or not. Clarity on values and voice is the foundation of influence. Leadership content isn’t about visibility, it’s about impact. Vulnerability and consistency build real trust with your audience. You can’t be influential if you’re afraid of being seen. From Our Sponsor: The Predictive Index (PI) is an award-winning talent optimization platform that aligns business strategy with people strategy for optimal business results. More than 60 years of proven science, software, and a curriculum of insightful management workshops make PI the solution for any company looking to design great teams and culture, make objective hiring decisions, foster engagement, and inspire greatness in their people anywhere in the world. More than 10,000 clients and 480+ partners use PI—including Nissan, Citizens Bank, Subway, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Omni Hotels—across 90+ countries. Learn more at predictiveindex.com. Additional Resources: Rachel Elsts Downey, Founder & CEO, Share Your Genius: linkedin.com/in/rachelelstsdowney Follow Matt on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattpoepsel/  Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network/posts/?feedView=all Learn more about PeopleForward Network: http://www.peopleforwardnetwork.com/

In this episode, Elena Agaragimova explores the evolving relationship between employee engagement and performance. She challenges the idea that traditional engagement strategies are enough and makes the case for shifting toward unlocking human potential through personalization, curiosity, and strategic clarity. Elena shares how leaders can better align people with their strengths, create space for reflection, and build workplaces that support long-term growth. From outdated career ladders to the power of story, she offers fresh insights for any leader rethinking how to develop talent in today’s world of work. Key Takeaways: Engagement is no longer the end goal—human performance is. People want clarity, purpose, and to feel like they’re growing. Personalization is key to unlocking individual and team potential. Reflection and storytelling help people understand and own their path. Leaders must rethink outdated systems and create space for what matters. From Our Sponsor: The Predictive Index (PI) is an award-winning talent optimization platform that aligns business strategy with people strategy for optimal business results. More than 60 years of proven science, software, and a curriculum of insightful management workshops make PI the solution for any company looking to design great teams and culture, make objective hiring decisions, foster engagement, and inspire greatness in their people anywhere in the world. More than 10,000 clients and 480+ partners use PI—including Nissan, Citizens Bank, Subway, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Omni Hotels—across 90+ countries. Learn more at predictiveindex.com. Additional Resources: Elena Agaragimova, Co-Founder: ShiftWell.ai website: http://www.shiftwell.ai Follow Matt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattpoepsel/ Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network/posts/?feedView=all Learn more about PeopleForward Network: http://www.peopleforwardnetwork.com/

In this episode, leadership coach Lee Scott explores why so many managers avoid hard conversations and what to do about it. He shares how fear, unclear expectations, and lack of training often hold leaders back from saying what needs to be said. Lee offers practical tools for building the courage and clarity to step into uncomfortable conversations with confidence. From naming the gap between intention and impact to creating environments where feedback is safe and expected, this conversation is a candid look at the human side of leadership growth. Key Takeaways: Avoiding hard conversations is often rooted in fear and self-protection. Clarity of expectations is key to building healthy accountability. Managers need support and practice to develop relational courage. Feedback is most effective when it names both intent and impact. Psychological safety starts with leaders modeling honesty and curiosity. From Our Sponsor: The Predictive Index (PI) is an award-winning talent optimization platform that aligns business strategy with people strategy for optimal business results. More than 60 years of proven science, software, and a curriculum of insightful management workshops make PI the solution for any company looking to design great teams and culture, make objective hiring decisions, foster engagement, and inspire greatness in their people anywhere in the world. More than 10,000 clients and 480+ partners use PI—including Nissan, Citizens Bank, Subway, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Omni Hotels—across 90+ countries. Learn more at predictiveindex.com. Additional Resources: Lee Scott, Founder & Chief Change Agent, Unleashing Leaders: https://www.linkedin.com/company/unleashingleaders/ Unleashing Leaders: http://www.unleashingleaders.com YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/c/Unleashingleaders Leadership Conversation Series (Course): https://unleashingleadersuniversity.com/leadership-conversations-series Follow Matt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattpoepsel/ Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network/posts/?feedView=all Learn more about PeopleForward Network: http://www.peopleforwardnetwork.com/

In this episode, Jaime Nolan, CAE, shares her journey of transforming organizational culture, challenging outdated systems, and leading with authenticity during times of change. With deep experience in association leadership, Jaime opens up about the personal and professional work required to lead transformation from the inside out. She reflects on what it takes to build trust across diverse communities, how to unlearn old leadership habits, and why discomfort is often the path to growth. From navigating her own identity to rewriting the playbook with purpose, Jaime’s story offers a powerful look at change, inclusion, and resilience. Key Takeaways: Change starts with doing your own inner work before leading others. Trust is built slowly and requires showing up with consistency and care. Systems don’t transform until leaders are willing to be uncomfortable. Authenticity and vulnerability open the door to more inclusive leadership. Rewriting the playbook means questioning what we’ve always accepted as normal. From Our Sponsor: The Predictive Index (PI) is an award-winning talent optimization platform that aligns business strategy with people strategy for optimal business results. More than 60 years of proven science, software, and a curriculum of insightful management workshops make PI the solution for any company looking to design great teams and culture, make objective hiring decisions, foster engagement, and inspire greatness in their people anywhere in the world. More than 10,000 clients and 480+ partners use PI—including Nissan, Citizens Bank, Subway, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Omni Hotels—across 90+ countries. Learn more at predictiveindex.com. Additional Resources: Jaime Nolan, CAE, CEO, National Speakers Association: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaimenolan/ National Speakers Association: http://www.nsaspeaker.org Follow Matt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattpoepsel/ Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network/posts/?feedView=all Learn more about PeopleForward Network: http://www.peopleforwardnetwork.com/

In this episode, Lissy Alden joins the show to unpack what mental fitness really means and how it applies to leadership. She shares how mindset impacts performance, what it looks like to shift from being hijacked by emotion to intentionally choosing your response, and why self-awareness is the key to change. Drawing from her experience supporting people leaders across industries, Lissy breaks down how reflection, mental reps, and practical tools can help interrupt old patterns and build new ones. Whether you’re feeling stuck or seeking clarity, this conversation offers simple and powerful insights for rewiring the way you think, lead, and relate. Key Takeaways: Mental fitness is the ability to notice, pause, and choose a different response Most people operate on autopilot and need reflection to shift out of it Your mindset directly affects how you lead, connect, and perform Simple tools practiced daily can rewire deeply ingrained patterns The goal isn’t perfection, it’s increasing self-awareness and agency From Our Sponsor: The Predictive Index (PI) is an award-winning talent optimization platform that aligns business strategy with people strategy for optimal business results. More than 60 years of proven science, software, and a curriculum of insightful management workshops make PI the solution for any company looking to design great teams and culture, make objective hiring decisions, foster engagement, and inspire greatness in their people anywhere in the world. More than 10,000 clients and 480+ partners use PI—including Nissan, Citizens Bank, Subway, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Omni Hotels—across 90+ countries. Learn more at predictiveindex.com. Additional Resources: Follow Lissy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lissy-alden/ Follow Matt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattpoepsel/ Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network/posts/?feedView=all Learn more about PeopleForward Network: http://www.peopleforwardnetwork.com/

In this episode, executive coach and speaker Kelly Meerbott joins the show to explore how leaders can move from burnout and fragmentation to clarity, connection, and purpose. Drawing on her trauma-informed approach and deep experience with hundreds of C-suite leaders and military officers, Kelly offers a refreshing take on what it means to lead from within. She discusses how to dismantle outdated leadership conditioning, why emotional clarity fuels courage, and how storytelling can unlock influence and authenticity. From co-founder conflict to middle manager fatigue, Kelly reveals how self-trust, vulnerability, and even humor can rebuild leadership from the inside out. Key Takeaways: Leadership starts with clarity, courage, and compassion for yourself. Self-trust is the foundation for trusting and leading others. Storytelling is a must-have skill for influence and connection. Discomfort, silence, and failure are part of the leadership process. Your power lies in unlearning who you were told to be and remembering who you are. From Our Sponsor: The Predictive Index (PI) is an award-winning talent optimization platform that aligns business strategy with people strategy for optimal business results. More than 60 years of proven science, software, and a curriculum of insightful management workshops make PI the solution for any company looking to design great teams and culture, make objective hiring decisions, foster engagement, and inspire greatness in their people anywhere in the world. More than 10,000 clients and 480+ partners use PI—including Nissan, Citizens Bank, Subway, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Omni Hotels—across 90+ countries. Learn more at predictiveindex.com. Additional Resources: Follow Kelly on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellyameerbott/ Follow Matt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattpoepsel/ Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network/posts/?feedView=all Learn more about PeopleForward Network: http://www.peopleforwardnetwork.com/

In this episode, CEO Andy Allaway of Empire Flippers joins the show to unpack his journey from corporate manager to leading a fully remote, high-growth global business. Andy shares lessons on navigating hyper-growth, building culture in a distributed team, and stepping into leadership during a time of transformation. He opens up about the challenges of succeeding a founder-led organization, the importance of hiring for cultural alignment, and what it really means to lead through downturns. From hiring missteps to rebuilding trust and clarity, Andy offers practical advice for managers leading through complexity, pressure, and change. Key Takeaways: You can’t scale culture without defining it clearly first. Growth hides cracks. Downturns reveal them. Trust is built through clarity, consistency, and communication, especially in remote teams. Wartime leadership demands decisiveness, not consensus. Belief in the mission is the foundation for change and resilience. From Our Sponsor: The Predictive Index (PI) is an award-winning talent optimization platform that aligns business strategy with people strategy for optimal business results. More than 60 years of proven science, software, and a curriculum of insightful management workshops make PI the solution for any company looking to design great teams and culture, make objective hiring decisions, foster engagement, and inspire greatness in their people anywhere in the world. More than 10,000 clients and 480+ partners use PI—including Nissan, Citizens Bank, Subway, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Omni Hotels—across 90+ countries. Learn more at predictiveindex.com. Additional Resources: Follow Andy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andyallaway Empire Flippers: http://www.empireflippers.com Follow Matt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattpoepsel/ Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network/posts/ Learn more about PeopleForward Network: http://www.peopleforwardnetwork.com/