The Modern Manager

Many organizations say they want to invest in people, but their hiring and talent practices often tell a very different story.Degree requirements, limited benefits packages, and poor management practices continue to limit who gets access to opportunity and how teams perform. And the cost shows up everywhere: higher turnover, slower productivity, and missed potential.Fortunately, this week’s guest brings clear data and practical strategies that show how companies can do better for both people and performance.Dr. Angela Jackson is a Workplace Futurist and ESG expert, founder of Future Forward Strategies, and a lecturer at Harvard Graduate School of Education. She works with entrepreneurs, F100s, and policymakers on the future of work. Dr. Angela holds a doctorate from Harvard University and serves on several boards, including Needham Bancorp. Her book, The Win-Win Workplace, became a New York Times, USA Today, and Los Angeles Times Best SellerIf you want to build stronger teams, reduce turnover, and boost performance inside your organization, this episode offers a practical roadmap.Get FREE mini-episode guides with the week’s episode's big idea delivered to your inbox when you subscribe to my weekly email.Join the conversation now!Conversation Topics(00:00) Why “being your best self at work” is a business imperative(02:52) What is a “zero-sum workplace”?(06:05) What happens when workplaces invest in people(06:57) The 9 pillars of a Win-Win Workplace (overview)(12:26) What managers can do (even without company-wide power)(19:03) Distributed leadership and the Ownership mindset(26:57) A great manager story(29:30) How to connect with Angela(30:45) [Extended Interview] Building a deep talent bench(32:30) [Extended Interview] Hiring for skills, not credentials(36:18) [Extended Interview] How to design a skills-based interview📚 Additional Resources:✨Get the extended episode by joining The Modern Manager Podcast+ Community for just $15 per month✨ Read the full transcript: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1O9rEV0xAVx6z2G3F9o6o3zcyLw5-dZOVj9wumxsSl34/edit?usp=sharing  ✨Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mamieks/ ✨Visit my website for more: https://www.mamieks.com/ ✨Upskill your team: https://themodernmanager.com/replaybundle ✨Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7jhYz8b16g1SsLia4EhO5w?sub_confirmation=1 Keep Up with Angela Jackson- Connect with her on LinkedIn here: linkedin.com/in/dr-angela-jackson- Follow her on Facebook here: https://www.facebook.com/angela.jackson.48955/ - Follow her on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drangelajackson/- Read her book here: https://www.readwinwinworkplace.com/Guest Bonus: 1 Free registration to The Win-Win Workplace SummitThe Win-Win Workplace™ Summit is where visionary employers and workplace innovators gather to tackle real challenges. Grounded in research and a commitment to practice, the 2026 Summit is built to spark bold action. Come with real questions. Leave with new strategies, trusted advisors, and partnerships that last long after the event. This is where leaders stop going it alone—and start building what’s next, together.MAY 4-5, 2026 | CHICAGO, ILLearn more about the summit here:https://www.winwinworkplacesummit.org/If you’re not able to attend the summit, enter the drawing anyway, and you’ll be able to select another event to attend in the US.Enter the drawing by February 27th, 2026.To get this bonus and many other member benefits, become a member of The Modern Manager Podcast+ Community.---------------------The Modern Manager is a leadership podcast for rockstar managers who want to create a working environment where people thrive and great work gets done.Follow The Modern Manager on your favorite podcast platform so you won’t miss an episode!#Leadership #FutureOfWork #PeopleFirst #ModernManagement #EmployeeEngagement #WorkplaceCulture #TalentDevelopment #SkillsBasedHiring #ManagerTips #WinWinWorkplace#HiringStrategy #TalentManagement #FutureOfWork #SkillsBasedHiring #LeadershipDevelopment #HRInnovation #AngelaJackson #WinWinWorkplace #EmployeeRetention

About 95% of people believe they’re self-aware, but research shows only 10–15% actually are. And that gap matters, especially for managers.Self-awareness shapes how we communicate, make decisions, handle conflict, and interpret others’ behavior. When we don’t understand what’s driving our reactions or how our actions land, we risk creating friction, bias, and misunderstanding on our teams without realizing it.Fortunately, this week’s guest helps us unpack what true self-awareness really is, where it comes from, and how managers can develop it in practical, grounded ways.Dr. Helen Fagan is a leadership development expert and author of Lead Like People Matter. Drawing on neuroscience, intercultural research, and decades of coaching leaders, Helen explains how our values, cultural conditioning, and unconscious brain systems shape how we show up at work and what it takes to interrupt patterns that no longer serve us.In this conversation, we explore how to notice emotional reactions before they hijack us, how to give feedback without attacking identity, and how managers can build self-awareness in themselves and their teams without it feeling awkward.Get FREE mini-episode guides with the big idea from the week’s episode delivered to your inbox when you subscribe to my weekly email.Join the conversation now!Conversation Topics(00:00) Introduction(02:20) What self-awareness actually means (and common misconceptions)(04:02) How culture and values shape workplace behavior(07:41) Why different work styles aren’t “wrong,” just different(10:13) How unconscious beliefs influence leadership decisions(12:56) Using emotional reactions as data, not direction(16:46) Recognizing physical signals of stress and reactivity(19:40) Naming emotions to reduce conflict and improve communication(33:37) Helping someone build self-awareness without making it personal(39:29) [Extended Episode] System 1 vs. System 2 thinking and emotional hijacking(42:14) [Extended Episode] Practical ways to re-engage logic during emotional moments📚 Additional Resources:✨Get the extended episode by joining The Modern Manager Podcast+ Community for just $15 per month✨ Read the full transcript: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1UYUZ9dQXgxgvbwBKbhAd5DmmwMBMQbEzT8v4UQRVIh4/edit?usp=sharing  ✨Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mamieks/ ✨Visit my website for more: https://www.mamieks.com/ ✨Upskill your team: https://themodernmanager.com/replaybundle ✨Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7jhYz8b16g1SsLia4EhO5w?sub_confirmation=1 Keep Up With Dr. Helen Fagan- Connect with Helen on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drhelenfagan/- Visit her website: https://helenfagan.com- Listen to the Because People Matter podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/because-people-matter/id1752004691- Check out her new book, Lead Like People Matter: https://a.co/d/50tCCbwGuest Bonus: 50% Discount on IDI Assessment and DebriefTake the IDI Assessment, which is a psychometric assessment tool that we use for people to gain self-awareness for how they navigate human differences. Get the assessment, your results, and a meeting with one of our Qualified Administrators to better understand their results, as well as a development plan for how to use your results moving forward.Normally priced at $400, get this incredible offer for only $225!To get this bonus and many other member benefits, become a member of The Modern Manager Podcast+ Community.---------------------The Modern Manager is a leadership podcast for rockstar managers who want to create a working environment where people thrive and great work gets done.Follow The Modern Manager on your favorite podcast platform so you won’t miss an episode!

You already have a personal brand, whether you’ve chosen it or not. And every meeting, email, and interaction at work is quietly shaping it.Many managers assume personal branding is about being visible online or promoting yourself. But in reality, it’s about how you show up, how others experience working with you, and what people say about you when you’re not in the room. It’s essentially your reputation.This week’s guest helps us unpack what personal brand really means at work and how to be intentional about it without feeling inauthentic, salesy, or self-promotional.Andy Storch is a keynote speaker, author of Own Your Career, Own Your Life and Own Your Brand, Own Your Career, and host of multiple podcasts. He works with leaders and managers to help them build reputations that earn trust, influence stakeholders, and attract opportunity. In this episode, we explore how your internal behaviors, external presence, and everyday choices combine to shape your brand and how small shifts can make a big difference over time.Get FREE mini-episode guides with the big idea from the week’s episode delivered to your inbox when you subscribe to my weekly email.If you want more influence, stronger relationships, and greater career opportunities without becoming an “influencer,” this conversation will help you lead with clarity and intention.Join the conversation now!Conversation Topics(00:00) You already have a personal brand(02:07) What a personal brand really is (and why it matters at work)(04:54) Internal vs external brand: how reputation is formed(07:01) How small behaviors quietly shape how others see you(10:29) The balance between humility and visibility(12:50) How to assess your current brand with self-reflection and feedback(17:49) Why building your brand isn’t fake; it’s intentional(22:01) Appearance, perception, and owning your choices(27:11) What great leaders are remembered for long-term(35:27) [Extended Episode] Using values to guide what you share publicly(36:08) [Extended Episode] How celebrating your team strengthens your leadership brand(38:12) [Extended Episode] Networking, relationship-building, and long-term opportunity📚 Additional Resources:✨Get the extended episode by joining The Modern Manager Podcast+ Community for just $15 per month✨ Read the full transcript: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1CyrOt9hWfHFy54Dg6px0nJZOFChrfNcEXsZ0rF4k1Xg/edit?usp=sharing  ✨Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mamieks/ ✨Visit my website for more: https://www.mamieks.com/ ✨Upskill your team: https://themodernmanager.com/replaybundle ✨Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7jhYz8b16g1SsLia4EhO5w?sub_confirmation=1 Keep Up with Andy Storch🔸 Connect with Andy on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andystorch/🔸 Visit Own Your Career, Own Your Life (book) here: https://ownyourbrandbook.com🔸 Explore Andy’s work and podcast here: https://andystorch.comGuest Bonus: FREE Digital Copy of Own Your Brand, Own Your CareerAndy Storch and Mike Kim—two seasoned experts in career development, personal branding, and thought leadership—show you how to position yourself for lasting success strategically. Drawing from decades of experience helping corporate professionals, entrepreneurs, and leaders around the world, they reveal how to:→ Identify and clarify your unique value, story, and message→  Build credibility and visibility inside and outside your organization→  Use modern platforms and tools to share your expertise effectively→  Create opportunities for promotions, career pivots, and business ventures→ Stay authentic while amplifying your impactPacked with real-world examples, step-by-step frameworks, and actionable exercises, this book will equip you to take control of your professional reputation and future—before someone else defines it for you.To get this bonus and many other member benefits, become a member of The Modern Manager Podcast+ Community.---------------------The Modern Manager is a leadership podcast for rockstar managers who want to create a working environment where people thrive and great work gets done.Follow The Modern Manager on your favorite podcast platform so you won’t miss an episode!#PersonalBrand #ReputationManagement #Leadership #CareerGrowth #ProfessionalDevelopment #CareerAdvice #ExecutiveCoaching #LeadershipDevelopment #WorkplaceSuccess #InfluenceAtWork

Hiring a friend can feel both generous and like a leadership landmine waiting to explode.Good intentions aren’t enough when power dynamics shift, boundaries blur, and personal relationships collide with professional expectations. The risk isn’t just losing a friendship; it’s undermining trust, fairness, and team culture if the situation isn’t handled thoughtfully.Fortunately, this week’s guest helps us unpack how to navigate one of leadership’s most uncomfortable decisions with clarity and integrity.Dr. Cindi Baldi is the founder and CEO of Culsure, a management science firm, co-host of the Management Muse podcast, and co-author of the Uncertainty Playbook. From blackjack dealer to PhD in organizational behavior, Cindi has seen the full spectrum of workplace behavior. Now she helps leaders across the country understand their people better through data and decades of consulting experience. Cindy explains when hiring a friend can work, when it absolutely won’t, and how to protect both the relationship and the organization if you decide to move forward.You’ll learn how to say no to a friend without damaging the relationship, what boundaries must be set upfront if you do hire them, and why conflict style in friendships is a strong predictor of workplace behavior.In the extended conversation, Cindy goes deeper into the hidden risks of managing friends, including what must be off-limits once a friend reports to you, how oversharing personal information can undermine fairness and trust, and how to lead with integrity when professional and personal lines start to blur.Get FREE mini-episode guides with the big idea from the week’s episode delivered to your inbox when you subscribe to my weekly email.Join the conversation now!Conversation Topics(00:00) The hidden risks and rewards of hiring a friend(03:03) Why friendships change once power dynamics enter the picture(06:00) Using social capital responsibly when recommending friends(12:42) What you can legitimately vouch for when referring someone(15:11) When hiring a friend actually makes strategic sense(17:03) The bias trap leaders fall into with people they like(20:25) How to protect fairness when making the hiring decision(22:36) Setting expectations before your friend starts the job(27:02) Power dynamics that make hiring a friend a bad idea(30:31) [Extended Episode Only] What to do when your friend applies but isn’t a good fit(36:29) [Extended Episode Only] Preventing personal boundaries from bleeding into work📚 Additional Resources:✨Get the extended episode by joining The Modern Manager Podcast+ Community for just $15 per month✨ Read the full transcript: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1bDdd0ol67WBTmohak12Nyi8XKXUOvWjVWfG4edyXDvo/edit?usp=sharing ✨Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mamieks/ ✨Visit my website for more: https://www.mamieks.com/ ✨Upskill your team: https://themodernmanager.com/replaybundle ✨Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7jhYz8b16g1SsLia4EhO5w?sub_confirmation=1 Keep up with Cindi Baldi🔸 Connect with Cindi on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cindibaldi 🔸 Follow Management Muse on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/management-muse-podcast/ 🔸 Subscribe to Management Muse on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/ManagementMusePodcast 🔸 Follow Management Muse on Instagram: https://instagram.com/managementmuse 🔸 Follow Management Muse on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/managementmusepodcast Guest Bonus: 3 Book Giveaway: The Uncertainty Playbook: 14 Strategies for Work Success in a Chaotic WorldThere is a blizzard of uncertainty—technological, geopolitical, demographic, climate-related, and more—impacting us at work today, and it is only accelerating.  Drawing on two decades of research and practice by organizational scientists Geoffrey Tumlin and Cindi Baldi, this book equips readers with essential strategies to grow and even flourish in unstable times.To get this bonus and many other member benefits, become a member of The Modern Manager Podcast+ Community.---------------------The Modern Manager is a leadership podcast for rockstar managers who want to create a working environment where people thrive and great work gets done.Follow The Modern Manager on your favorite podcast platform so you won’t miss an episode!

Salary conversations are inherently complex and challenging, filled with hidden traps. They are high-stakes, deeply personal, and blend factors like budgets, fairness, expectations, and emotions. Since these discussions are infrequent, many managers lack the necessary practice, which adds to the difficulty.Fortunately, this week’s guest breaks down exactly how to navigate compensation conversations with confidence, clarity, and leverage, without damaging relationships or risking the offer.John Gates is an author and founder of Salary Coach, where he helps C-suite executives and senior leaders negotiate higher compensation packages without risking their job offers or future relationships. John’s unique approach, born from his extensive experience in corporate recruiting, consistently helps his clients secure 10-20% more in their pay packages, even in challenging job markets.In this episode, we explore the biggest mistakes candidates and managers make when discussing pay, how to respond to the dreaded “What are your salary expectations?” question, and how to negotiate thoughtfully before an offer is on the table. If you want to avoid losing great candidates and negotiate with confidence, this conversation is for you.Get FREE mini-episode guides with the big idea from the week’s episode delivered to your inbox when you subscribe to my weekly email.Join the conversation now!Conversation Topics(00:00) Introduction(02:05) Why salary conversations feel so intimidating(05:48) The biggest mistake candidates make early in the process(08:41) How recruiters decide whether to move you forward(12:10) A smarter way to answer “What are your salary expectations?”(17:06) Why giving a range protects your leverage(21:42) The danger of accepting an offer too quickly(26:09) Common fears that stop people from negotiating(30:12) How effective negotiation actually works(33:16) [Extended] The exact script for handling salary screeners(37:59) [Extended] Gender differences in negotiation fears(45:02) [Extended] Using trade-offs and benefits to close compensation gaps📚 Additional Resources:✨Get the extended episode by joining The Modern Manager Podcast+ Community for just $15 per month✨ Read the full transcript: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1R7mD2jYo8pYIIohhkBWaoi9fHLnj1yp24F7bPl00-LY/edit?usp=sharing  ✨Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mamieks/ ✨Visit my website for more: https://www.mamieks.com/ ✨Upskill your team: https://themodernmanager.com/replaybundle ✨Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7jhYz8b16g1SsLia4EhO5w?sub_confirmation=1 Keep up with John Gates- Connect with John on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johngates-salarycoach/Guest Bonus: Free PDF download of Chapter 5 of his book: Use a Range, not a Number.John is providing members of podcast+ a PDF download of Chapter 5 of his book: Use a Range, not a Number. In this chapter, he provides actionable advice and plug-and-play scripts for how to talk about a salary range so you avoid getting screened and don’t end up leaving money on the table.To get this bonus and many other member benefits, become a member of The Modern Manager Podcast+ Community.---------------------The Modern Manager is a leadership podcast for rockstar managers who want to create a working environment where people thrive and great work gets done.Follow The Modern Manager on your favorite podcast platform so you won’t miss an episode!#SalaryNegotiation #CareerGrowth  #JobSearchTips #LeadershipDevelopment #ProfessionalGrowth #SalaryExpectations #PayNegotiation #InterviewTips #CareerAdvice #JobInterview

When disruption hits your team, confidence often drops, communication gets messy, and progress slows. But disruption isn’t the problem; how we respond to it is.Fortunately, this week’s guest offers a clear, practical framework for leading with steadiness even when everything around you is shifting. And just as importantly, he explains how we can become positive disruptors in order to facilitate a brighter future.Patrick Leddin is a global speaker, former Army Ranger, Vanderbilt professor, and bestselling author of Disrupt Everything and Win. He shares how managers can help their teams stay focused, take smart risks, communicate clearly, and build healthier relationships during periods of uncertainty.If you want to lead with more clarity and confidence when change hits, this conversation gives you the tools to do it.Get FREE mini-episode guides with the big idea from the week’s episode delivered to your inbox when you subscribe to my weekly email.Join the conversation now!Conversation Topics(00:00) Rethinking disruption as opportunity rather than threat(02:17) Why mindset shapes everything(03:30) How disruptions show up at work and in life(09:59) The danger of avoidance, “waiting it out,” and living in survival mode(11:11) What it means to be a positive disruptor(14:27) The 5 Positive Disruptor Roles (24:10) The 4-step disruptive leadership cycle(26:30) The 16 disruptive strengths (31:03) Keep up with Patrick(38:20) [Extended] Creating conditions for positive disruption inside your team’s culture(39:08) [Extended] Clarifying decision authority so your team knows when they can act(40:35) [Extended] Disrupting unhealthy workplace relationships📚 Additional Resources:✨ Get the extended episode by joining The Modern Manager Podcast+ Community for just $15 per month✨ Read the full transcript: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Gn-X2Pv1G3algfHWZDD0Vf9hDscJxW6gIKfivGVUY9Y/edit?usp=sharing ✨Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mamieks/ ✨Visit my website for more: https://www.mamieks.com/ ✨Upskill your team: https://themodernmanager.com/replaybundle ✨Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7jhYz8b16g1SsLia4EhO5w?sub_confirmation=1 Keep up with Patrick Leddin- Follow him on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/patrickleddin/- Visit his website: www.patrickleddin.comGuest Bonus: 2 Book Giveaway!Patrick is giving away two copies of his new book, Disrupt Everything and Win: Take Control of Your Future. Every day, we are confronted with sudden pivots at our workplace and in the job market, with changing technology such as artificial intelligence, unexpected crises, and a culture of chaos, and with that sinking feeling that we are losing control of our lives. This book is about taking back control. It's easy to follow and easy to turn into lifelong habits. It has been thoroughly researched and examined. You must enter the drawing by January 9th, 2026. To get this bonus and many other member benefits, become a member of The Modern Manager Podcast+ Community.---------------------The Modern Manager is a leadership podcast for rockstar managers who want to create a working environment where people thrive, and great work gets done.Follow The Modern Manager on your favorite podcast platform so you won’t miss an episode!

Ever feel like you should know more, be more confident, or have everything figured out by now?You’re not alone, and more importantly, you don’t need to be a “know-it-all” to be an exceptional leader.In fact, the strongest leaders today share one trait:They are learn-it-alls, people who grow through challenges instead of shrinking from them.Fortunately, this week’s guest brings a powerful, actionable framework that helps managers move from self-doubt into genuine capability.Damon Lembi is a 2x bestselling author, the host of The Learn-It-All Podcast, and CEO of Learnit, a live learning platform that has upskilled over 2 million people. Drawing from his prior baseball career, Damon brings an athlete’s perspective to leadership. Through his journey, he has gained invaluable insights into what helps organizations grow, how great leaders learn, and why learn-it-all companies outpace their competitors every time.We explore why action transforms confidence faster than motivation ever could, how to stop perfectionism from stalling your growth, and how “possibility spotting” turns obstacles into opportunities for advancement. If you’ve ever felt like you’re not ready, not experienced enough, or not “the right fit,” this conversation will help you step forward as the leader you truly are.Get FREE mini-episode guides with the big idea from the week’s episode delivered to your inbox when you subscribe to my weekly email.Join the conversation now!Conversation Topics(00:00) Introduction: Why imposter syndrome spikes when stepping into leadership(01:12) What imposter syndrome really is (and why nearly everyone experiences it)(05:42) Why we undervalue ourselves when taking on bigger roles(08:30) Confidence through action, not waiting to feel ready(11:18) Building leadership skills through mentors, reps, and learning(13:44) Why difficult conversations trigger self-doubt for new managers(15:56) Owning your gaps to build credibility(18:03) Asking for help and advocating for your development(22:58) Finding opportunities inside constraints(25:57) [Extended Only] Why everyone has imposter syndrome(26:45) [Extended Only] Damon’s 4-step framework for overcoming imposter syndrome(34:05) [Extended Only] Turning obstacles into an advantage📚 Additional Resources:✨ Get the extended episode by joining The Modern Manager Podcast+ Community for just $15 per month✨ Read the full transcript: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1MDa7N-6PlvtCn8v2-Nvau0HB7Ljq7OzM5r3sutaU1Do/edit?usp=sharing ✨Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mamieks/ ✨Visit my website for more: https://www.mamieks.com/ ✨Upskill your team: https://themodernmanager.com/replaybundle ✨Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7jhYz8b16g1SsLia4EhO5w?sub_confirmation=1 Keep up with Damon Lembi and The Learn-It-All PodcastConnect with Damon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/damonlembiFollow him on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/damonlembiFollow him on X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/damonlembiSubscribe to his YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/@learnittrainingListen to The Learn-It-All Podcast: TheLearnItAllLeader.comExplore Learnit: Learnit.comCheck out his book The Learn-It-All Leader: https://a.co/d/5oebQ6aGuest Bonus (available to members of Podcast+): FREE Digital Version of Learn-It-All LeaderIn The Learn-It-All Leader, Learnit CEO Damon Lembi shares:How being a "Learn-it-All" vs "Know-it-All will set you up for success and get you invited to more happy hours!A three-step approach to overcoming imposter syndromeHow to use Purposeful Awfulizing to overcome fear and build resilienceDiscover why treating your employees as a team rather than as family can lead to greater successWhy you should choose potential over experience in the hiring processWhat the “Trust Tax” is and why it’s worth payingHow a leader's personal model of integrity is crucial to creating trust and a thriving workplaceA proven model for building great teamsHow implementing a culture of continuous learning & professional development helps attract & retain talentWhy you should focus on elevating strengths over improving weaknessesWith entertaining anecdotes and inspirational examples, The Learn-It-All Leader is a compelling guide to being your best and playing to win every time.To get this bonus and many other member benefits, become a member of The Modern Manager Podcast+ Community.---------------------The Modern Manager is a leadership podcast for rockstar managers who want to create a working environment where people thrive and great work gets done.Follow The Modern Manager on your favorite podcast platform so you won’t miss an episode!------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------#Leadership #Management #CareerGrowth #ProfessionalDevelopment #LeadershipDevelopment #WorkplaceSkills #ManagerTips #BusinessMindset #GrowthMindset #ImposterSyndrome #ContinuousLearning #LeadershipMindset #TeamManagement #CareerAdvice

In a world that constantly demands breakthrough solutions, do you ever feel like innovation is reserved for a select few, or that you’re simply not "creative enough"? This week’s guests are here to set the record straight: that we are all capable of creative thinking if we just give ourselves permission and a little guidance. Tessa Forshaw and Rich Braden are the co-authors of Innovation-ish: How Anyone Can Create Breakthrough Solutions to Real Problems in the Real World. Tessa is a cognitive scientist exploring how we work, learn, and innovate. She is a co-founder of Harvard's Next Level Lab and teaches Design Thinking and Innovation at Harvard, DCE, and Stanford D School. Rich is the founder and CEO of People Rocket, which helps leaders and teams overcome innovation hesitation; there, they guide clients through the innovation-ish approach, a flexible human-centered framework built on mindset shifts, small adaptive steps, and reflective practice he also teaches at Stanford D School.In this episode, we're cutting through the myth of the "right-brained" innovator. You’ll learn how to integrate the six innovation mindsets into your work, overcome "innovation hesitation," and embrace your "whole brain" approach to problem-solving. This conversation offers practical tools to foster fresh thinking within your team, create space for ideas to thrive, and give you the concrete tools to move those ideas forward, no matter your role.Plus, in the extended episode, Tessa and Rich share tips for normalizing failure and using “F-Up Nights” to build a culture that learns from failure.Get FREE mini-episode guides with the big idea from the week’s episode delivered to your inbox when you subscribe to my weekly email.Join the conversation now!Conversation Topics(00:00) Introduction – Why experimentation beats opinion-driven decision-making(01:18) The root of spiraling: fear, assumptions, and cognitive bias(04:02) Why small experiments create big clarity(07:10) The danger of optimizing parts of a system instead of the whole(10:42) A real-world case study: redesigning a supply chain through small tests(15:45) Why most ideas fail and why that’s a good thing(18:04) How emotional attachment to ideas sabotages good decisions(21:30) Cognitive caution: What your brain is really doing when you avoid failure(25:14) Practicing emotional regulation while testing ideas(28:33) Creating a culture where testing > guessing(30:20) [Extended only] How leaders can use data to reduce conflict and opinion-driven debate(36:24) [Extended only] Normalizing failure and learning from it as a team(40:18) [Extended only] Global “F-Up Nights” and how leaders can model healthy failure📚 Additional Resources:✨ Get the extended episode by joining The Modern Manager Podcast+ Community for just $15 per month✨ Read the full transcript: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1KFafl5klc5iycyAmqq_Mlqp3ARyogW-mCWto2HNGfNc/edit?usp=sharing  ✨ Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mamieks/ ✨ Visit my website for more: https://www.mamieks.com/ ✨ Upskill your team: https://themodernmanager.com/replaybundle ✨ Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7jhYz8b16g1SsLia4EhO5w?sub_confirmation=1 Keep up with Tessa Forshaw & Rich BradenFollow Tessa on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tessaforshaw/Follow Rich on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardcoxbraden/Get a copy of Innovation-ish here: https://a.co/d/5Dhg9wHGuest Bonus: 1st Chapter of Innovation-ish: How Anyone can Create Breakthrough Solutions to Real Problems in the Real WorldInnovation-ish is your no-nonsense guide to unlocking your innate creativity. This book shows you how to solve problems and generate solutions in a huge variety of personal and professional situations. Tessa and Rich demystify the myths that surround innovation, reveal the six mindsets that underlie innovation, and show how the moves you make drive innovation forward. And they share the latest relevant cognitive science research in a compelling and digestible way - no degree required.To get this bonus and many other member benefits, become a member of The Modern Manager Podcast+ Community.---------------------The Modern Manager is a leadership podcast for rockstar managers who want to create a working environment where people thrive and great work gets done.Follow The Modern Manager on your favorite podcast platform so you won’t miss an episode!#DesignThinking  #Experimentation #ManagerTips #BetterDecisions #LeadershipSkills #WorkplaceLearning#Innovation #Creativity #CreativeThinking #InnovationMindset #Leadership #ProblemSolving #TeamInnovation #GrowthMindset #SkillBuilding #ProfessionalGrowth #ThinkSmart #LeadershipDevelopment

When the world around you feels chaotic, leading a team can feel overwhelming, especially when your inner world is just as loud. Most managers try to push through, rely on willpower, or double down on doing more. But in reality, external chaos only becomes manageable when we learn to work with the internal chaos driving our emotions, reactions, and habits.Fortunately, this week’s guest helps us unpack exactly why leaders get stuck in overwhelm and how to shift back into clarity and confidence.Rob Kalwarowsky is a world-renowned executive coach, author of the best-selling book Capitalizing on Chaos, and keynote & TEDx speaker. We explore the hidden parts of ourselves that shape our leadership, the subconscious fears that drive “DIY leadership,” people-pleasing, and imposter syndrome, and the practice that brings you back to center when everything feels too much.If you’ve ever found yourself spiraling, overworking, micromanaging, avoiding decisions, or doubting your capability even when you're successful… this conversation will help you understand what’s happening inside your brain and what to do next.Rob’s practical framework gives you the mental tools to lead yourself and your team with steadiness, self-awareness, and strength, even when everything feels uncertain.Get FREE mini-episode guides with the big idea from the week’s episode delivered to your inbox when you subscribe to my weekly email.Join the conversation now!Conversation Topics(00:00) Introduction – Leading through internal and external chaos.(01:07) How self-awareness impacts leadership and team dynamics.(04:14) The DIY Leader—When doing everything holds you back.(07:44) TA tool for acknowledging stress and building empathy.(10:25) Understanding internal leadership behaviors.(16:21) Using self-awareness to improve interactions and decision-making.(19:41) Applying the “Parts Framework” to enhance collaboration.(22:50) How your internal state affects team morale.(24:41) Recognizing and managing energy-draining saboteurs.(30:39) [Extended only] Team strategies for shared language and stress signals.(32:56) [Extended only] Using vulnerability and playful cues to improve team communication.📚 Additional Resources:- Get the extended episode by joining The Modern Manager Podcast+ Community for just $15 per month- Read the full transcript here- Follow me on Instagram here - Visit my website for more here- Upskill your team here- Subscribe to my YouTube Channel here- Take the Saboteur Assessment here Keep up with Rob Kalwarowsky- Follow Rob on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rob-kalwarowsky/ - Subscribe to his YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/@ExecutiveCoachRobK - Check out his book Capitalizing on Your Strengths here: https://www.robkalwarowsky.com/capitalizing Guest Bonus: 10 Book Giveaway and Free Find Your Reason WorksheetThe Find Your Reason worksheet (PDF Download) is designed to clarify your goals and to support you in overcoming any subconscious resistance to taking action. Studies show that writing down your goals increases your probability of achieving them to 42% and sharing them with me increases it even further to 70%.  Who wouldn’t spend a few minutes to dramatically improve their chances of success?10 book giveaway of Capitalizing On Chaos: The Executive’s Guide to Succeed in Disruption. We all have the capacity to demonstrate ineffective and even harmful behaviors, creating our own version of chaos. But we also have the capacity to change. To find our true selves inside of the uncertainty. And to move forward by moving beyond our circumstances to proven leadership strategies for organizational growth. Capitalizing on Chaos is the handbook on bringing order and clarity to the future of work.To get this bonus and many other member benefits, become a member of The Modern Manager Podcast+ Community.---------------------The Modern Manager is a leadership podcast for rockstar managers who want to create a working environment where people thrive and great work gets done.Follow The Modern Manager on your favorite podcast platform so you won’t miss an episode!---------------------------------------------------------------#leadership #management #workplacewellbeing #professionaldevelopment #personaldevelopment #leadershipdevelopment #careeradvice #selfawareness #mindsetmatters #stressmanagement #emotionalintelligence #overcomingoverwhelm #performanceatwork #leadershipskills #workculture

Managers play a crucial role in shaping how employees experience work. But when ADHD enters the mix, good intentions can backfire if not handled thoughtfully. With the right mindset and tools, you can create a space where everyone performs at their best.Fortunately, this week’s guest brings both personal and professional expertise to this conversation.Rita Ramakrishnan is an executive leadership coach and consultant who helps neurodivergent professionals and their teams amplify their strengths and work more naturally. Her work focuses on neurodivergent leadership success, helping individuals and organizations embrace differences as a pathway to thriving.In this episode, Rita and I explore what ADHD looks like in adults, why it’s often misunderstood, and how managers can support themselves and their teams through empathy, structure, and flexible systems. You’ll learn strategies for managing focus, energy, and motivation, plus how to build habits that sustain success over time.In the extended episode, Rita shares how to approach conversations about ADHD respectfully, even when a team member hasn’t disclosed, and how to foster a collaborative, psychologically safe culture that supports everyone’s best work.Get FREE mini-episode guides with the big idea from the week’s episode delivered to your inbox when you subscribe to my weekly email.Join the conversation now!Conversation Topics(00:00) Introduction: Why ADHD awareness matters for managers(01:02) Meet today’s guest: Rita Ramakrishnan(03:04) How ADHD shows up in adults, and why many go undiagnosed(06:16) The connection between neurodiversity, performance, and burnout(09:28) Building psychological safety for employees with ADHD(12:47) Shifting from fixing people to redesigning work(17:11) The right way to talk about ADHD (and what not to say)(22:08) Supporting focus, follow-through, and accountability on your team(25:11) Managing ADHD Team Members(30:22) [Extended Episode Only] Raising sensitive topics with empathy and care(33:35) [Extended Episode Only] Redesigning roles and work for energy and well-being📚 Additional Resources:- Get the extended episode by joining The Modern Manager Podcast+ Community for just $15 per month- Read the full transcript here- Follow me on Instagram here - Visit my website for more here- Upskill your team here- Subscribe to my YouTube Channel hereKeep up with Rita Ramakrishnan- Follow Rita on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ritaram- Visit Iksana here: https://www.iksana.comGuest Bonus: 20% Off Coaching ServicesRita is offering members of Podcast+ 20% off her coaching services. She provides executive and team coaching specifically designed for neurodivergent leaders and the teams who work with them, helping executives leverage their cognitive differences as strategic advantages while creating psychologically safe, high-performing environments.To get this bonus and many other member benefits, become a member of The Modern Manager Podcast+ Community.---------------------The Modern Manager is a leadership podcast for rockstar managers who want to create a working environment where people thrive and great work gets done.Follow The Modern Manager on your favorite podcast platform so you won’t miss an episode!------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------#ADHDAtWork #NeurodiversityInTheWorkplace #LeadershipDevelopment #InclusiveLeadership#PeopleManagement #WorkplaceWellbeing #TheModernManagerPodcast

Have you ever had a great idea but struggled to get others on board?You don’t need a title to have influence; you need a strategy.Fortunately, this week’s guest knows exactly how to build credibility and momentum without formal power.Tami Reiss is an expert on influence-driven leadership. She’s a keynote speaker, corporate trainer, and CEO of Leader Within, where she helps leaders master influence and maximize impact. Through tools like the LEAD Framework, MAP, the Influence Canvas, and the Confident Communicator GPT, she makes leadership concepts practical and accessible to professionals around the world. Her latest passion project is a rhyming illustrated book on leadership.In this episode, Tami shares how to use the MAP Framework (Manifest, Assess, Promote) to move ideas forward, align your vision with others, and build relationships that lead to collaboration instead of resistance. We explore what to do when your ideas are dismissed, how to avoid losing your cool under pressure, and why influence is really about connection, not control.In the extended conversation, Tami shares practical tools for managing crisis moments with calm, rallying allies before big decisions, and communicating risks in ways that help others listen and engage constructively.Get FREE mini-episode guides with the big idea from the week’s episode delivered to your inbox when you subscribe to my weekly email.Join the conversation now!Conversation Topics(00:00) Introduction: Why Influence Without Authority Matters(02:09) The MAP Framework: Manifest, Assess, Promote(05:06) Why Influence is About Connection, Not Power(09:15) Manifesting a Vision That Inspires Buy-In(12:38) Assessing Stakeholders and Building Relationships(17:02) Promoting Your Ideas Authentically(21:19) Managing Pushback and Reframing Resistance(25:26) Lessons from Great Managers: Buy-In vs. Being Right(29:03) Connect with Tami Reiss(30:35) [Extended Episode Only] Staying Calm and Building Allies in Crisis(34:24) [Extended Episode Only] The “Meeting Before the Meeting” to Gain Real Support📚 Additional Resources:- Get the extended episode by joining The Modern Manager Podcast+ Community for just $15 per month- Read the full transcript here- Follow me on Instagram here - Visit my website for more here- Upskill your team here- Subscribe to my YouTube Channel hereKeep up with Tami Reiss- Visit Tami’s website here: https://tamireiss.com- Follow Tami on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tamireiss- Follow Tami on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/reisstami- Subscribe to her Leader Within newsletter here: https://leaderwithin.substack.com- Watch Tami’s YouTube channel here: https://www.youtube.com/tamireiss- View her speaker reel playlist here: https://www.youtube.com/tamireiss — get a peek into the energy she brings to audiences.- Download the free M.A.P. Canvas here: https://learn.myleaderwithin.com/influence- Read her blog here: https://learn.myleaderwithin.com/blog/- Pre-order her upcoming book What Do Product Managers Do? A Primer for Aspiring PMs of All Ages here: https://mascotbooks.com/product/what-do-product-managers-do-a-primer-for-aspiring-pms-of-all-ages/- Explore her custom GPT, The Leader Within: Tami from Miami, here: https://chatgpt.com/g/g-679afb821a6c81918edef32295c26b8b-the-leader-within-tami-from-miamiGuest Bonus: Mastering Executive Presence Online Course for $49Mastering Executive Presence is a practical, high-impact course for leaders who’ve been told to “show up stronger” but were never shown how. You’ll learn and practice real behaviors across Awareness, Adaptability, Authenticity, and Authority to build trust, increase influence, and lead with confidence in every high-stakes moment. ($499 value) To get this bonus and many other member benefits, become a member of The Modern Manager Podcast+ Community.---------------------The Modern Manager is a leadership podcast for rockstar managers who want to create a working environment where people thrive and great work gets done.Follow The Modern Manager on your favorite podcast platform so you won’t miss an episode!------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------#Leadership #InfluenceWithoutAuthority #CommunicationSkills #ManagerTips #WorkplaceInfluence #ProfessionalGrowth #LeadershipDevelopment #SoftSkills #TeamManagement #CareerSuccess #LeadershipMindset #PeopleSkills #Collaboration #EffectiveCommunication #ManagerAdvice #OfficePolitics #LeadershipTools

Are you showing up as your full, authentic self or just the version you think others expect?Authenticity isn’t a matter of oversharing or saying whatever’s on your mind. It’s about honesty balanced with humility and vulnerability, the kind that builds genuine trust and stronger teams.Thankfully, today’s guest brings both experience and expertise to this conversation. Mike Robbins is the author of five books, including Bring Your Whole Self to Work and his latest, We’re All In This Together. For the past 25 years, Mike has been a sought-after keynote speaker and executive coach who delivers keynotes, workshops, and coaching programs for some of the top companies in the world. His clients include Google, Wells Fargo, Microsoft, Walmart, eBay, Schwab, and many more.In this episode, we delve into what it truly means to “bring your whole self to work,” examine why self-righteousness undermines connection, and explore how vulnerability cultivates trust and psychological safety. Mike shares his “authenticity equation” and practical ways managers can model openness without crossing professional boundaries.In the extended conversation, Mike delves deeper into the art of authentic appreciation, why most people are uncomfortable receiving praise, how to cultivate a culture of gratitude on your team, and the key distinction between appreciation and recognition. He also shares a powerful team practice, “the appreciation seat,” that helps managers cultivate belonging and empathy at work.Get FREE mini-episode guides with the big idea from the week’s episode delivered to your inbox when you subscribe to my weekly email.Join the conversation now!Conversation Topics(00:00) Introduction: Why Authenticity Matters at Work(01:03) The Challenge of Showing Up Authentically(01:46) The Authenticity Equation Explained(03:14) Removing Self-Righteousness from Your Leadership(06:55) The Subtle Ways Self-Righteousness Shows Up in Coaching(10:21) Lowering the Waterline on the Iceberg(16:24) The Art of Appropriate Disclosure(18:53) Navigating Grief and Personal Struggles at Work(22:30) Authenticity, Identity, and Belonging(26:11) The Power of Sweaty Palm Conversations(30:18) Connect with Mike Robbins(31:07) [Extended Only] The art of appreciation: how to give and receive it authentically(37:38) [Extended Only] Recognition vs. appreciation—what every manager should know📚 Additional Resources:- Get the extended episode by joining The Modern Manager Podcast+ Community for just $15 per month- Read the full transcript here- Follow me on Instagram here - Visit my website for more here- Upskill your team here- Subscribe to my YouTube Channel hereKeep up with Mike Robbins- Connect with Mike on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrobbins/ - Follow Mike on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/mikedrobbins/- Visit Mike’s website here: https://mike-robbins.com/ - Follow Mike on X here: https://x.com/mikedrobbins - Follow Mike on TikTok here: https://www.tiktok.com/@mikedrobbins Guest Bonus: Book Giveaway: 3 Copies of We're All in This Together: Creating a Team Culture of High Performance, Trust, and BelongingIn this book, corporate consultant Mike Robbins dives deep into the ways great businesses build trust, collaborate, and operate at their peak level. The book’s core principles include facilitating an environment of psychological safety, fostering inclusion and belonging, addressing and navigating conflict, and maintaining a healthy balance of high expectations and empathy. Throughout, Mike shares powerful exercises and tools he’s successfully utilized in the keynote speeches, group sessions, and corporate retreats that he delivers so that you and your team can communicate more authentically, give and receive feedback with skill, and create deeper connections.To get this bonus and many other member benefits, become a member of The Modern Manager Podcast+ Community.---------------------The Modern Manager is a leadership podcast for rockstar managers who want to create a working environment where people thrive and great work gets done.Follow The Modern Manager on your favorite podcast platform so you won’t miss an episode!#AuthenticLeadership #LeadershipDevelopment #ManagerTips #WorkplaceCulture #PsychologicalSafety #Vulnerability #TrustAtWork #Leadership #Management #TeamLeadership #WorkCulture #ProfessionalGrowth #HumanCenteredLeadership #FutureOfWork #TheModernManager

At some point in your career, you’ve probably worked with someone who is on the autism spectrum, but you might not have known. There are many misconceptions about autism, which damage how we understand and therefore support these colleagues. Viewing autism through a new lens can help every manager unlock hidden potential and design environments where everyone thrives.Today’s guest brings both personal experience and professional insight to help us all better appreciate the talents of neurodiverse team members. Clain Udy is reshaping the way society views autism by shifting our perspectives from deficit-focused to one that sees autism through a strengths-based lens. As the father of a high-functioning autistic adult son, Clain has spent over two decades researching and investigating what it takes to help his son and other autistic individuals have successful, fulfilling careers.Clain’s new book, Rebranding Autism: A Guide to Seeing Strength on the Spectrum, details his journey from initially thinking he had to “fix” his autistic son to wholeheartedly embracing his son’s beautifully unique strengths.In this episode, we explore how autism shows up in the workplace, what managers often misunderstand about communication and performance, and practical ways to create environments where neurodiverse employees can do their best work.In the extended conversation, Clain shares how managers can better understand social communication preferences, why “chasing normal” harms both managers and employees, and how reframing autism as a different but equally valid way of processing the world changes everything about inclusion.Get FREE mini-episode guides with the big idea from the week’s episode delivered to your inbox when you subscribe to my weekly email.Join the conversation now!Conversation Topics(00:00) Introduction – Understanding how neurodivergent brains enrich the workplace(02:03) The hidden prevalence of autism in professional environments(04:38) Dispelling misconceptions and shifting from deficit-based thinking(07:16) Recognizing the strengths of autistic individuals(12:34) Adapting environments for sensory and cognitive needs(13:43) Communication strategies that support neurodivergent team members(20:12) Strength-based management and inclusive leadership(25:14) Real stories of inclusive managers in action(29:18) [Extended Episode Only] Building authentic relationships with neurodivergent employees(34:54) [Extended Episode Only] Designing communication to meet different social needs📚 Additional Resources:- Get the extended episode by joining The Modern Manager Podcast+ Community for just $15 per month- Read the full transcript here- Follow me on Instagram here - Visit my website for more here- Upskill your team here- Subscribe to my YouTube Channel hereKeep up with Clain Udy- Check out his website: https://autismelevated.com/- Follow Clain on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clainudy/- Follow Clain on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Autism-Elevated/61559009841770/- Follow Clain on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/autismelevated/Guest Bonus: 10 Book Giveaway: Rebranding Autism: A Guide to Seeing Strength on the SpectrumThis insightful book is both a memoir and a practical guide that aims to dismantle the current assumptions and mindset around autism and empower parents, educators, and employers to recognize and nurture the inherent abilities of autistic individuals.To get this bonus and many other member benefits, become a member of The Modern Manager Podcast+ Community.---------------------The Modern Manager is a leadership podcast for rockstar managers who want to create a working environment where people thrive and great work gets done.Follow The Modern Manager on your favorite podcast platform so you won’t miss an episode!#Neurodiversity #AutismAwareness #InclusiveLeadership #WorkplaceInclusion #LeadershipDevelopment #ManagerTips #FutureOfWork #TeamManagement #PsychologicalSafety #HumanCenteredLeadership #TheModernManager#AutismAtWork #Neurodiversity #InclusiveLeadership #LeadershipDevelopment #ManagerTips #WorkCulture #Inclusion #WorkplaceInclusion #Leadership #Management #TeamLeadership #FutureOfWork #PeopleManagement #AutismAwareness

Most people don’t set out to be “bad bosses.” But good intentions aren’t enough when your habits unintentionally create frustration, fear, or disengagement.Thankfully, today’s guest helps us see what’s really happening beneath the surface. Mita Mallick is a Wall Street Journal and USA Today Best-Selling author. She’s on a mission to fix what's broken in our workplaces. She’s a corporate change-maker with a track record of transforming businesses and has had an extensive career as a marketing and human resources executive.In this episode, we explore what makes a bad boss (and how to avoid becoming one). Mita reveals common behaviors that erode trust, how to give feedback that empowers instead of intimidates, and why inclusive leadership is the foundation of a healthy culture. You’ll learn small, everyday actions that rebuild connection, create safety, and turn self-awareness into your most powerful leadership tool.In the extended members-only conversation, Mita opens up about the “Nap Boss,” “Tony Soprano,” and “Sheriff” archetypes—real examples of toxic leadership behaviors that managers can learn from. She also shares practical ways to respond to bullying or bias at work, including how to use the “Five Ds” framework to intervene and support colleagues safely and effectively.Get FREE mini-episode guides with the big idea from the week’s episode delivered to your inbox when you subscribe to my weekly email.Join the conversation now!Conversation Topics (00:00) Introduction: What makes a “bad boss”?(00:51) Meet Mita Mallick and her leadership journey(02:40) The myths we believe about being a good boss(05:12) Why well-intentioned leaders can still be toxic(08:43) Understanding inclusion as a leadership skill(12:25) How to recognize your own blind spots(17:18) Building trust and psychological safety(21:36) Giving feedback with care and clarity(25:49) The small habits that make a big difference(29:10) Keep up with Mita(31:46) [Extended Episode Only] The Nap, Tony, and Sheriff bosses’ workplace impact(36:18) [Extended Episode Only] How to intervene: The Five Ds model📚 Additional Resources:✨Get the extended episode by joining The Modern Manager Podcast+ Community for just $15 per month✨ Read the full transcript: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1Cw9_72_BLtfr5vsjDbb-U2Nb5KuX56A5Jo6TSGmOaWc/edit?usp=sharing✨Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mamieks/✨Visit my website for more: https://www.mamieks.com/✨Level up your skills: https://themodernmanager.com/replaybundle✨Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7jhYz8b16g1SsLia4EhO5w?sub_confirmation=1✨Learn more about the 5Ds in episode 109 with Emily May: https://www.themodernmanager.com/podcast-109Keep up with Mita Mallick- Follow Mita on LinkedIn here- Check out her book hereGuest Bonus: 10% off Book Consulting ServicesIf you’ve wanted to write a book, this is for you. Get hourly book consulting services from idea generation all the way to marketing your book and selling it to your audience. Priced at $750/hr, members of Podcast+ get a 10% discount. To get this bonus and many other member benefits, become a member of The Modern Manager Podcast+ Community.---------------------The Modern Manager is a leadership podcast for rockstar managers who want to create a working environment where people thrive and great work gets done.Follow The Modern Manager on your favorite podcast platform so you won’t miss an episode!#Leadership #Management #WorkCulture #ToxicWorkplace #BadBoss #GoodManager #EmotionalIntelligence #TeamLeadership #ManagerTips #WorkplaceCulture #SelfAwareness #LeadershipDevelopment #PeopleManagement #ProfessionalGrowth #ManagerAdvice #LeadershipPodcast

Layoffs are some of the hardest moments a manager can face. How you handle them can shape not just the experience of the employees leaving but also the morale and trust of the team that remains.Today’s guest brings expert guidance on navigating these challenges with empathy, clarity, and professionalism.Leanne Elliot is a Chartered Occupational Psychologist, Consultant, and Coach with a proven track record of building workplaces that empower teams and enable performance. She is also co-host of the award-winning psychology podcast, Truth, Lies & Work. Breaking into the prestigious HubSpot Podcast Network in 2022. The show is dedicated to helping business leaders simplify the science of the workplace.In this episode, Leanne explains how managers can approach layoffs thoughtfully, manage confidentiality effectively, communicate clearly, and care for both departing employees and the remaining team. She shares practical frameworks to make these tough conversations more human and less stressful.In the extended members-only conversation, Leanne dives deeper into strategies for managers who are themselves being laid off and how to prepare for career transitions while maintaining professional composure.Get FREE mini-episode guides with the big idea from the week’s episode delivered to your inbox when you subscribe to my weekly email.Join the conversation now!Conversation Topics (00:00) Introduction(01:59) Layoffs vs Firings(03:15) Managing Confidentiality and Clear Communication(04:51) A Manager's Role in Layoff Decisions(07:30) Supporting Remaining Team Members After a Layoff(12:05) Practical Frameworks for The Tough Conversation(16:40) Creating a Compassionate Layoff Process(20:15) Key Behavioral Science Insights for Managers(24:50) Maintaining Team Morale and Trust(29:07) Connect with Leanne (31:23) [Extended Episode Only] Supporting Your Team After a Layoff(34:05) [Extended Episode Only] If You Are the One Being Laid Off📚 Additional Resources:- Get the extended episode by joining The Modern Manager Podcast+ Community for just $15 per month- Read the full transcript here- Follow me on Instagram here - Visit my website for more here- Upskill your team here- Subscribe to my YouTube Channel hereKeep up with Leanne Elliot - Follow Leanne on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meetleanne/- Follow on Instagram here: https://www.instagram.com/truthlieswork/- Learn more on her website here: https://truthliesandwork.com/- Explore Oblong HQ here: https://oblonghq.com/Guest Bonus: 1 FREE Career Transition Coaching ProgramThis free three-session coaching program helps you navigate career transitions with psychology-based tools and practical support. You’ll reflect on past experiences, clarify your values, and set clear goals for your future work.Learn more about the program here.Enter the drawing by November 7, 2025.To get this bonus and many other member benefits, become a member of The Modern Manager Podcast+ Community.---------------------The Modern Manager is a leadership podcast for rockstar managers who want to create a working environment where people thrive and great work gets done.Follow The Modern Manager on your favorite podcast platform so you won’t miss an episode!#Leadership #Management #Layoffs #EmployeeExperience #WorkplaceCulture #EmotionalIntelligence #ManagerTips #CareerTransitions #TeamManagement #ProfessionalGrowth

Why do so many projects spiral into stress, shifting priorities, and endless risks while others seem to flow smoothly toward success? What if the difference isn’t just about tools or methods, but about how you lead?Thankfully, today’s guest brings a fresh, human-centered approach to project management. James Louttit is the author of Leading Impactful Teams: Achieving Low Stress Success in Project Management, a leadership coach, and a former CIO who now trains managers and business leaders around the world. His work blends real-world experience with practical tools to help managers lead projects with clarity, sustainability, and impact.In this episode, James introduces his “eight lenses of project management” and reveals why prioritization is often the missing key to project success. He shares powerful ways to engage stakeholders, identify and manage risks, and avoid common mistakes in estimating time and effort. Along the way, James offers stories and frameworks that any manager, whether formally a project manager or not, can use to keep work on track and teams energized.In the extended members-only conversation, James explains how to properly scope your projects and define quality, two notoriously tricky areas that can make or break your results.Get FREE mini-episode guides with the big idea from the week’s episode delivered to your inbox when you subscribe to my weekly email.Join the conversation now!Conversation Topics(00:00) Introduction to Project Management(01:44) The Eight Lenses of Project Management(03:13) The Importance of Prioritization(07:54) Agile vs. Waterfall Project Management Approaches(10:23) Engaging Stakeholders Effectively(17:20) Managing Risks in Projects(24:09) Time Management and Estimating Effort(30:40) Keep Up with James(31:30) [Extended Episode Only] How To Properly Scope Your Projects(33:10) [Extended Episode Only] Defining Quality In Project ManagementAdditional Resources:- Get the extended episode by joining The Modern Manager Podcast+ Community for just $15 per month- Read the full transcript here- Follow me on Instagram here - Visit my website for more here- Upskill your team here- Subscribe to my YouTube Channel here Keep up with James Louttit- Follow James on LinkedIn here- Subscribe to his YouTube channel here- Join the IPM Community with a free 7-day trial hereGuest Bonus: Free Audio Book: Leading Impactful Teams and 3 FREE 1-Year Membership to IMP CommunityLeading Impactful Teams is a lively exploration of the "lenses" of project management – Scope, Prioritisation, Time, Cost, Quality, Risks, Team and Stakeholders – that will enable the reader to develop a "sixth sense" for potential issues that could derail their project. It provides a practical toolkit to help you and your team deliver great project outcomes with minimum stress and maximum fun. The IPM Community helps you deliver projects on time, on budget, and without burnout through bite-sized lessons, tactical tools and weekly peer support. Created by James Louttit, author of Leading Impactful Teams, it’s a no-jargon, no-exam space where professionals learn fast, share real challenges, and lead with confidence.  To get this bonus and many other member benefits, become a member of The Modern Manager Podcast+ Community.---------------------The Modern Manager is a leadership podcast for rockstar managers who want to create a working environment where people thrive and great work gets done.Follow The Modern Manager on your favorite podcast platform so you won’t miss an episode!#ProjectManagement #Leadership #TeamManagement #TeamSuccess #ProjectPlanning #AgileLeadership #RiskManagement #ProjectManagementTips #LeadershipSkills #TeamPerformance

What if your greatest strengths aren’t the ones listed on your résumé, but universal traits we all share? Positive psychology shows us that tapping into these character strengths can transform how we work, lead, and connect with others. These aren’t just feel-good ideas; they’re proven tools for resilience, performance, and deeper human connection.Fortunately, this week’s guest brings exactly the expertise we need to show how these character strengths can transform our work and leadership.Natalya Pestalozzi is a professional certified coach through the International Coaching Federation and a positive psychology expert with a Master’s in Applied Positive Psychology. She trains practitioners worldwide through the Flourishing Center’s Certificate in Applied Positive Psychology program and coaches leaders in private equity, nonprofits, think tanks, and the federal government. Through her own journey in motherhood, she has a special passion for coaching parents before, during, and after pregnancy.In this episode, Natalya shares how positive psychology goes beyond “toxic positivity” and equips us with the tools to flourish. She introduces the 24 VIA character strengths, explains how to spot and balance them in yourself and your team, and shows why cultivating these universal traits builds stronger trust, collaboration, and authentic leadership.In the extended episode, Natalya reveals what to do when someone says they don’t want to change because they see it as inauthentic, and she shares the five character strengths most correlated with happiness and life satisfaction.Get FREE mini-episode guides with the big idea from the week’s episode delivered to your inbox when you subscribe to my weekly email.Conversation Topics:(00:00) Introduction(02:32) How positive psychology differs from toxic positivity(06:53) The PERMA model and the role of strengths in engagement(10:20) Examples of VIA character strengths in the workplace(14:20) Why it’s sometimes hard to use our strengths at work(17:40) Overuse and underuse of strengths(19:27) Practical ways to grow and show strengths as managers(23:41) Which strengths are particularly helpful for managers(27:23) A story of a great manager and early career mentorship(33:41) [extended episode] Aligning strengths and values for authentic growth(37:11) [extended episode] Ideas for weaving these strengths into team cultureAdditional Resources:- Get the extended episode by joining The Modern Manager Podcast+ Community for just $15 per month- Read the full transcript here- Follow me on Instagram here - Visit my website for more here- Upskill your team here- Subscribe to my YouTube Channel hereKeep up with Natalya Pestalozzi: - Connect with Natalya on LinkedIn here - Take the VIA strengths character assessment- To discover more or enroll in CAPP, check out:https://theflourishingcenter.com/natalya/ The program begins October 21st.- Learn more www.natalyapestalozzi.com Guest Bonus: Masterclass in Positive Psychology and the Science of Flourishing Recording and Finding the Golden Mean PDFThe 60‑minute webinar recording explores the cutting‑edge science behind human flourishing—then translates it into simple, practical actions you can start using the same day. Through research‑backed insights and interactive micro‑exercises, you’ll discover how tiny shifts in mindset and behavior can ignite big gains in vitality, connection, and purpose. What You’ll Learn: Flourishing vs. Languishing: Spot where you (and those you serve) sit on the Mental Health Continuum—and how to move upward. Pathways to Peak Well‑Being: The six evidence‑based drivers of positivity, engagement, achievement, meaning, relationships, and vitality. Why Happiness Fuels Success: Break the myth that you must succeed first to be happy—see how positive emotions actually power performance. Taming the Negativity Bias: Simple brain‑based hacks to counter worry, rumination, and “what‑ifs.” Micro‑Interventions That Stick: Gratitude, savoring, kindness, and other two‑minute practices that measurably lift mood and resilience.Prioritizing Positivity: Craft days that naturally generate more joy—at work, at home, and everywhere in between. The Golden Mean is using character strengths in a balanced way (optimal use). It is when you apply the right combination of character strengths, to the right degree, in the right situation. This PDF shows the underuse, overuse, and optimal use of character strengthsTo get this bonus and many other member benefits, become a member of The Modern Manager Podcast+ Community.---------------------The Modern Manager is a leadership podcast for rockstar managers who want to create a working environment where people thrive and great work gets done.Follow The Modern Manager on your favorite podcast platform so you won’t miss an episode!#PositivePsychology #CharacterStrengths #Leadership #WorkplaceSuccess #TeamCulture #FlourishAtWork

Why do so many managers struggle to let go of tasks, even when they know that holding onto everything stifles their ability to scale? The secret is to document things so clearly that others can succeed without you.Fortunately, today’s guest is an expert at helping leaders let go. Chris Ronzio is the Founder and CEO of Trainual, a platform reshaping how businesses onboard, train, and scale their teams. A lifelong entrepreneur, he helps leaders unlock growth by mastering the art of documenting and delegating. Chris is also the bestselling author of The Business Playbook: How to Document and Delegate What You Do So Your Company Can Grow Beyond You. Beyond work, he’s a husband, father, and passionate Phoenix Suns fan.In this episode, Chris shares frameworks and strategies to help managers create clarity, engage their teams in documentation, and free themselves up to focus on what matters most.In the extended conversation, Chris explores how to turn documentation into a team sport, cascade delegation across levels, and troubleshoot when processes aren’t followed—revealing practical ways to finally stop doing it all yourself.Get FREE mini-episode guides with the big idea from the week’s episode delivered to your inbox when you subscribe to my weekly email.Join the conversation now!Conversation Topics(00:00) Introduction(02:34) Why managers struggle to let go(06:23) Delegation tools and frameworks(14:38) Training and ramp-up expectations(17:31) Tools and systems for documentation(19:15 ) The Four Ps of a business playbook(22:40) Building culture through documentation(25:56)  Keeping documentation alive(29:47) Documentation as a team sport (Extended Episode Only)(32:43) Delegation cascades across the team (Extended Episode Only)(34:18) When processes aren’t followed (Extended Episode Only)Additional Resources:- Get the extended episode by joining The Modern Manager Podcast+ Community for just $15 per month- Read the full transcript here- Follow me on Instagram here - Visit my website for more here- Upskill your team here- Subscribe to my YouTube Channel hereKeep up with Chris Ronzio- Follow Chris on LinkedIn here- Follow Trainual on Instagram here- Learn more on his Website here- Explore Trainual's platform here Guest Bonus: FREE PDF: The 4 Ps: What to DocumentWhile not an exhaustive list, this extensive 4-page PDF will give youa good starting point when deciding what policies you need to document first. To get this bonus and many other member benefits, become a member of The Modern Manager Podcast+ Community.---------------------The Modern Manager is a leadership podcast for rockstar managers who want to create a working environment where people thrive and great work gets done.Follow The Modern Manager on your favorite podcast platform so you won’t miss an episode!

Groups are the foundation of everything we accomplish in work and life. Yet, as every manager knows, collaborating with others can be both the greatest strength and one of the hardest challenges. What makes some teams thrive while others struggle with friction and disengagement?Fortunately, this week’s guest, Dr. Colin Fisher, has dedicated his career to uncovering the hidden processes that make groups effective. Colin is an associate professor of organizations and innovation at University College London’s School of Management, a researcher featured in outlets like Harvard Business Review and BBC, and the author of The Collective Edge. His work sheds light on how managers can structure and guide their teams to harness the true power of collaboration.In this episode, Colin explores the dynamics that shape effective teamwork, from setting clear goals to designing the right team structure, establishing norms, and fostering psychological safety. Whether you’re leading a small project team or a large organization, you’ll gain practical insights on how to unlock your group’s collective potential.Join the conversation now!Get FREE mini-episode guides with the big idea from the week’s episode delivered to your inbox when you subscribe to my weekly email.Conversation Topics(00:00) Introduction(03:47) Why groups matter more than individual effort(07:02) The benefits of teamwork beyond accomplishing tasks(09:52) Two key levers to designing effective teamwork(13:42) Why structure matters more than pep talks(18:30) The critical elements of team composition, size, and boundaries(22:10) How to set goals that are clear, challenging, and consequential(26:50) Establishing effective norms for communication and psychological safety(29:21) About Colin’s book and where to find more resources(31:05) [Extended Episode Only] Resetting your team’s culture when things feel stuckAdditional Resources:- Get the extended episode by joining The Modern Manager Podcast+ Community for just $15 per month- Read the full transcript here- Follow me on Instagram here - Visit my website for more here- Upskill your team here- Subscribe to my YouTube Channel hereKeep up with Colin Fisher- Follow Colin on X (Twitter) here- Connect with Colin on LinkedIn here- Follow Colin on Instagram here- Visit Colin’s website here- Check out his book The Collective Edge hereBonus: Meeting Makeover guidebookIn lieu of a guest offer this week, I’m offering members of Podcast+ access to my brand-new Meeting Makeover guidebook. It’s a step-by-step workbook that empowers you to finally fix your bad meetings once and for all.To get this bonus and many other member benefits, become a member of The Modern Manager Podcast+ Community.---------------------The Modern Manager is a leadership podcast for rockstar managers who want to create a working environment where people thrive, and great work gets done.Follow The Modern Manager on your favorite podcast platform so you won’t miss an episode!

What if your greatest strength as a leader isn’t your expertise but your ability to lead people who are completely different from you?In today’s diverse workplaces, managers can’t rely on a one-size-fits-all approach. Understanding how to adapt your leadership to different personalities, backgrounds, and working styles is key to building high-performing teams because, let’s be honest, everyone is different from you.Thankfully, today’s guest brings decades of wisdom on how to do it well, sharing practical strategies for inclusive, effective leadership.Stephanie Chung is an international bestselling author, strategic innovator, and expert in human capital management with more than 30 years of experience turning challenges into opportunities. She shares why understanding privilege isn’t about guilt but about using what you have to serve others, and how her ALLY framework (Ask, Listen, Learn, and Act Yourself) helps leaders embrace curiosity, build stronger relationships, and unlock the power of truly diverse teams.✨In the extended episode for members, Stephanie goes deeper into the EARN approach and how to create engaged, high-performing, diverse teams.Become a member of Podcast Plus for extended episodes, guest bonuses, and more at themodernmanager.com/more Conversation Topics(00:00) Introduction: The Uniqueness of Individuals(00:35) Meet Stephanie Chung: A Force in Business Growth(01:11) Understanding Differences in the Workplace(05:22) The Concept of Privilege in Leadership(09:25) Leveraging Privilege to Empower Teams(19:00) The Power of Curiosity in Leadership(21:55) Creating Inclusive and Effective Teams(28:51) Conclusion: Embracing Diversity for Success(31:12) [Extended Episode Only] Stephanie shares the EARN approach to building teams.Additional Resources✨Follow me on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mamieks/ ✨Visit my website for more: https://www.mamieks.com/ ✨Level up your skills: https://themodernmanager.com/replaybundle ✨Subscribe to my YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7jhYz8b16g1SsLia4EhO5w?sub_confirmation= ✨Read the transcript hereKeep Up With Stephanie Chung- Follow Stephanie on LinkedIn here- Follow her on Instagram here- Like her on Facebook here- Follow her on TikTok here- Learn more on her Website here- Watch her speaker reel on YouTube Shorts:@thestephaniechung- Subscribe to her Newsletter hereGuest Bonus: 3 Book Giveaway: Ally Leadership: How to Lead People Who Are Not Like You.Stephanie is giving away three copies of her book Ally Leadership: How to Lead People Who Are Not Like You. This book is not just about traditional leadership; it's about revolutionizing leadership practices to be more effective in a rapidly changing corporate world. This issue transcends categories of race, gender, sexual orientation, different abilities, and age - it's a universal concern that affects everyone.👉To get this guest bonus and many other member benefits, become a member of The Modern Manager Podcast+ Community: https://themodernmanager.com/more ---------------------The Modern Manager is a leadership podcast for rockstar managers who want to create a working environment where people thrive and great work gets done.Follow The Modern Manager on your favorite podcast platform so you won’t miss an episode!