Want to build your best team ever? Join 25,000+ who receive these insights in my free newsletter: https://davidburkus.com/podcastEvery team needs A-Players. But spotting and supporting your high performers isn’t just nice to do, it’s essential leadership. In this episode, I’ll show you how to find the real A-Players on your team (hint: they’re not always the loudest in the room), and more importantly, how to lead them so they stay motivated, energized, and on your team. Because if you don’t know how to manage A-Players, someone else will, and they’ll gladly recruit yours. This isn’t about micromanaging or piling on more work. It’s about creating clarity, challenge, and support.Chapters:00:00 The A-Players00:44 Meet Dr. David Burkus01:11 How to Actually Spot Your High Performers04:07 How to Support Them and Keep Them from Leaving04:25 Don't just pile on more work.05:19 Do set clear, ambitious expectations.06:09 Don’t micromanage.06:54 Do help them find meaning.07:30 Don't try to keep them to yourself.//ABOUT DAVIDOne of the world’s leading business thinkers, David Burkus’ forward-thinking ideas and bestselling books are helping leaders and teams do their best work ever.He is the best-selling author of four books about business and leadership. His books have won multiple awards and have been translated into dozens of languages. His insights on leadership and teamwork have been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Harvard Business Review, USAToday, Fast Company, the Financial Times, Bloomberg BusinessWeek, CNN, the BBC, NPR, and CBS This Morning. Since 2017, Burkus has been ranked as one of the world’s top business thought leaders by Thinkers50. As a sought-after international speaker, his TED Talk has been viewed over 2 million times. He’s worked with leaders from organizations across all industries including Google, Stryker, Fidelity, Viacom, and even the US Naval Academy.A former business school professor, Burkus holds a master’s degree in organizational psychology from the University of Oklahoma, and a doctorate in strategic leadership from Regent University.//NEWSLETTERWant to build your best team ever? Join 25,000+ who receive these insights in my free newsletter: https://davidburkus.com/youtube//SPEAKINGLike what you heard? Find more on David's speaking page (and find out about bringing him to your company or event) at https://davidburkus.com/keynote-speaker///CONNECT+ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidburkus/+ Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/davidburkus+ Facebook: http://www.FB.com/DrDavidBurkus + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/DavidBurkus
There's a stack of leadership books I continue to draw from all the time that not only shape how I think, but some that have really changed my mind in the past. They've influenced me in numerous way including when I wrote my book, "Best Team Ever." Chapters:00:32 The Opposable Mind by Roger Martin01:33 The Culture Map by Erin Meyer02:29 The Coaching Habit by Michael Bungay Stanier03:34 What Got You Here Won't Get You There by Marshall Goldsmith04:17 Team of Teams by General Stanley McChrystal 05:18 The No Asshole Rule by Robert Stutton06:11 Radical Candor by Kim Scott07:11 Good to Great by Jim Collins08:19 Creativity Inc. by. Ed Catmull09:18 The Culture Code by Daniel Coyle10:13 Leadership and Self-Deception by The Arbinger Institute11:03 The Leadership Challenge by James M. Kouzes and Barry Z. Posner12:24 Switch by Chip Heath and Dan Heath13:23 Best Team Ever by David Burkus//ABOUT DAVIDOne of the world’s leading business thinkers, David Burkus’ forward-thinking ideas and bestselling books are helping leaders and teams do their best work ever.He is the best-selling author of four books about business and leadership. His books have won multiple awards and have been translated into dozens of languages. His insights on leadership and teamwork have been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Harvard Business Review, USAToday, Fast Company, the Financial Times, Bloomberg BusinessWeek, CNN, the BBC, NPR, and CBS This Morning. Since 2017, Burkus has been ranked as one of the world’s top business thought leaders by Thinkers50. As a sought-after international speaker, his TED Talk has been viewed over 2 million times. He’s worked with leaders from organizations across all industries including Google, Stryker, Fidelity, Viacom, and even the US Naval Academy.A former business school professor, Burkus holds a master’s degree in organizational psychology from the University of Oklahoma, and a doctorate in strategic leadership from Regent University.//NEWSLETTERWant to build your best team ever? Join 25,000+ who receive these insights in my free newsletter: https://davidburkus.com/youtube//SPEAKINGLike what you heard? Find more on David's speaking page (and find out about bringing him to your company or event) at https://davidburkus.com/keynote-speaker///CONNECT+ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidburkus/+ Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/davidburkus+ Facebook: http://www.FB.com/DrDavidBurkus + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/DavidBurkus
Want to build your best team ever? Join 25,000+ who receive these insights in my free newsletter: https://davidburkus.com/youtubeYou’ve just been asked to lead a team…but it’s not really your team. It’s a mix of folks from different departments. Marketing. Sales. Legal. Each bringing their own priorities, habits, and maybe even a hidden agenda or two...Welcome to the world of cross-functional teams.They’re supposed to help organizations move faster and collaborate better. But the reality? Most are dysfunctional. In this video, I’ll break down why that happens, and more importantly, what you can do about it. I’ll walk you through how to align goals, create clarity around roles, and build the kind of communication norms that keep things moving and keep people from defaulting back to their silos.Chapters:00:00 Welcome to a Cross-Functional Team!00:42 Meet Dr. David Burkus01:05 What’s the Real Problem Here?02:41 Clarify Goals and Roles03:44 Set Communication Norms04:27 The Key Questions to Ask05:10 Build Common Understanding and Practice Empathy06:20 Build Psychological Safety08:37 Set Checkpoints and Celebrate Wins//ABOUT DAVIDOne of the world’s leading business thinkers, David Burkus’ forward-thinking ideas and bestselling books are helping leaders and teams do their best work ever.He is the best-selling author of four books about business and leadership. His books have won multiple awards and have been translated into dozens of languages. His insights on leadership and teamwork have been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Harvard Business Review, USAToday, Fast Company, the Financial Times, Bloomberg BusinessWeek, CNN, the BBC, NPR, and CBS This Morning. Since 2017, Burkus has been ranked as one of the world’s top business thought leaders by Thinkers50. As a sought-after international speaker, his TED Talk has been viewed over 2 million times. He’s worked with leaders from organizations across all industries including Google, Stryker, Fidelity, Viacom, and even the US Naval Academy.A former business school professor, Burkus holds a master’s degree in organizational psychology from the University of Oklahoma, and a doctorate in strategic leadership from Regent University.//NEWSLETTERWant to build your best team ever? Join 25,000+ who receive these insights in my free newsletter: https://davidburkus.com/youtube//SPEAKINGLike what you heard? Find more on David's speaking page (and find out about bringing him to your company or event) at https://davidburkus.com/keynote-speaker//CONNECT+ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidburkus/+ Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/davidburkus+ Facebook: http://www.FB.com/DrDavidBurkus + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/DavidBurkus
Want to build your best team ever? Join 25,000+ who receive these insights in my free newsletter: https://davidburkus.com/podcastCan you keep your work friends now that you're the new boss? Now that you’re leading the same people you used to grab happy hour with…it's awkward, right? Don’t worry, you’re not alone. That shift from friend to boss can get messy if you’re not careful. I'll help you break down what actually changes when your work buddies become your direct reports and how to handle it without tanking your credibility or your friendships.Chapters:00:00 Can you be the boss and a friend at the same time?01:02 Meet Dr. David Burkus01:24 Don’t Be That Friend, or That Boss...02:15 Address the New Identity Directly and Soon03:14 Accept Your New Role, and Act Like It04:55 Be Consistent to Avoid Favoritism06:07 Re-evaluate Your Social Media Habits//ABOUT DAVIDOne of the world’s leading business thinkers, David Burkus’ forward-thinking ideas and bestselling books are helping leaders and teams do their best work ever.He is the best-selling author of four books about business and leadership. His books have won multiple awards and have been translated into dozens of languages. His insights on leadership and teamwork have been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Harvard Business Review, USAToday, Fast Company, the Financial Times, Bloomberg BusinessWeek, CNN, the BBC, NPR, and CBS This Morning. Since 2017, Burkus has been ranked as one of the world’s top business thought leaders by Thinkers50. As a sought-after international speaker, his TED Talk has been viewed over 2 million times. He’s worked with leaders from organizations across all industries including Google, Stryker, Fidelity, Viacom, and even the US Naval Academy.A former business school professor, Burkus holds a master’s degree in organizational psychology from the University of Oklahoma, and a doctorate in strategic leadership from Regent University.//NEWSLETTERWant to build your best team ever? Join 25,000+ who receive these insights in my free newsletter: https://davidburkus.com/youtube//SPEAKINGLike what you heard? Find more on David's speaking page (and find out about bringing him to your company or event) at https://davidburkus.com/keynote-speaker///CONNECT+ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidburkus/+ Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/davidburkus+ Facebook: http://www.FB.com/DrDavidBurkus + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/DavidBurkus
Want to build your best team ever? Join 25,000+ who receive these insights in my free newsletter: https://davidburkus.com/podcastYou poured time, energy, and passion into your new initiative…only to find it quietly fizzling out weeks later. Sound familiar? You’re not alone. The truth is, getting your team excited about a new process is easy—getting that change to stick is the hard part. In this video, I break down why so many great ideas fail to take root and what the research says actually makes them stick (and not stick). We’ll dive into the “improvement paradox,” explore why initiative fatigue and the, "Curse of Knowledge," sabotage your best efforts, and learn how to design your change message for real impact on your team.Want your change initiatives to succeed? It starts here.00:00 You're message isn't landing...feel familiar?00:49 Meet Dr. David Burkus01:10 Why Things Don’t Stick03:47 Sometimes Our Ideas Cloud Our Vision06:24 Find the Core and Make it Compact07:02 Explain in Human Actions and Sensory Information//ABOUT DAVIDOne of the world’s leading business thinkers, David Burkus’ forward-thinking ideas and bestselling books are helping leaders and teams do their best work ever.He is the best-selling author of four books about business and leadership. His books have won multiple awards and have been translated into dozens of languages. His insights on leadership and teamwork have been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Harvard Business Review, USAToday, Fast Company, the Financial Times, Bloomberg BusinessWeek, CNN, the BBC, NPR, and CBS This Morning. Since 2017, Burkus has been ranked as one of the world’s top business thought leaders by Thinkers50. As a sought-after international speaker, his TED Talk has been viewed over 2 million times. He’s worked with leaders from organizations across all industries including Google, Stryker, Fidelity, Viacom, and even the US Naval Academy.A former business school professor, Burkus holds a master’s degree in organizational psychology from the University of Oklahoma, and a doctorate in strategic leadership from Regent University.//NEWSLETTERWant to build your best team ever? Join 25,000+ who receive these insights in my free newsletter: https://davidburkus.com/youtube//SPEAKINGLike what you heard? Find more on David's speaking page (and find out about bringing him to your company or event) at https://davidburkus.com/keynote-speaker///CONNECT+ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidburkus/+ Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/davidburkus+ Facebook: http://www.FB.com/DrDavidBurkus + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/DavidBurkus
Want to build your best team ever? Join 25,000+ who receive these insights in my free newsletter: https://davidburkus.com/podcastLeading a multicultural or global team isn’t just about managing projects—it’s about managing people who see the world differently.Most leadership advice is built on Western ideals like autonomy and egalitarianism, but most of the world’s workforce comes from more collectivist, hierarchical cultures. This is where cultural intelligence can really be a game changer for managers.I’ll break down what cultural intelligence (CQ) really means, why psychological safety looks different across cultures, and how to lead global teams more effectively. You’ll learn practical tips to build trust, reduce friction, and adapt your leadership style so every team member feels valued. Whether you’re managing a remote team, a hybrid team, or an international workforce, these strategies will help you unlock collaboration and drive high performance.00:00 Teams spread out across the world need to work well.01:08 Meet Dr. David Burkus01:30 What is Cultural Intelligence?02:03 David Livermore's Work on Cultural Intelligence03:14 What Do People Get Wrong About Managing Across Cultures?08:27 How Do I Break Through the Cultural Barriers?09:57 The SPLIT Method10:10 Tsedal Neeley's SPLIT Method//ABOUT DAVIDOne of the world’s leading business thinkers, David Burkus’ forward-thinking ideas and bestselling books are helping leaders and teams do their best work ever.He is the best-selling author of four books about business and leadership. His books have won multiple awards and have been translated into dozens of languages. His insights on leadership and teamwork have been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Harvard Business Review, USAToday, Fast Company, the Financial Times, Bloomberg BusinessWeek, CNN, the BBC, NPR, and CBS This Morning. Since 2017, Burkus has been ranked as one of the world’s top business thought leaders by Thinkers50. As a sought-after international speaker, his TED Talk has been viewed over 2 million times. He’s worked with leaders from organizations across all industries including Google, Stryker, Fidelity, Viacom, and even the US Naval Academy.A former business school professor, Burkus holds a master’s degree in organizational psychology from the University of Oklahoma, and a doctorate in strategic leadership from Regent University.//NEWSLETTERWant to build your best team ever? Join 25,000+ who receive these insights in my free newsletter: https://davidburkus.com/youtube//SPEAKINGLike what you heard? Find more on David's speaking page (and find out about bringing him to your company or event) at https://davidburkus.com/keynote-speaker///CONNECT+ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidburkus/+ Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/davidburkus+ Facebook: http://www.FB.com/DrDavidBurkus + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/DavidBurkus
Want to build your best team ever? Join 25,000+ who receive these insights in my free newsletter: https://davidburkus.com/podcastThis isn’t just another tech rollout. It’s a mindset shift.I’ll show you how to move beyond seeing AI as a threat or just a productivity tool, and instead see it for what it really is: a teammate. From simplifying the mundane to enhancing your strategic decisions, the right mindset unlocks AI’s real value for your team. Whether you’re leading a small group or scaling across an enterprise, this shift is essential. Let’s get you and your team ready to work smarter, together with AI.00:00 The Wrong AI Questions02:02 Move From Slower to Simpler04:08 Use this prompt to get started.04:38 Move From Simpler to Smarter05:27 My favorite work prompt to use.07:08 Build Smarter Team Habits//ABOUT DAVIDOne of the world’s leading business thinkers, David Burkus’ forward-thinking ideas and bestselling books are helping leaders and teams do their best work ever.He is the best-selling author of four books about business and leadership. His books have won multiple awards and have been translated into dozens of languages. His insights on leadership and teamwork have been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Harvard Business Review, USAToday, Fast Company, the Financial Times, Bloomberg BusinessWeek, CNN, the BBC, NPR, and CBS This Morning. Since 2017, Burkus has been ranked as one of the world’s top business thought leaders by Thinkers50. As a sought-after international speaker, his TED Talk has been viewed over 2 million times. He’s worked with leaders from organizations across all industries including Google, Stryker, Fidelity, Viacom, and even the US Naval Academy.A former business school professor, Burkus holds a master’s degree in organizational psychology from the University of Oklahoma, and a doctorate in strategic leadership from Regent University.//NEWSLETTERWant to build your best team ever? Join 25,000+ who receive these insights in my free newsletter: https://davidburkus.com/youtube//SPEAKINGLike what you heard? Find more on David's speaking page (and find out about bringing him to your company or event) at https://davidburkus.com/keynote-speaker///CONNECT+ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidburkus/+ Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/davidburkus+ Facebook: http://www.FB.com/DrDavidBurkus + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/DavidBurkus
Want to build your best team ever? Join 25,000+ who receive these insights in my free newsletter: https://davidburkus.com/podcastDon't let silence speak for you. When a crisis hits, the instinct for most leaders is to project strength—to act like they’ve got it all figured out. But the truth is, certainty can cost you during a crisis. In this video, I unpack why adaptability is a far more powerful asset than rigid confidence. And I make the case for something that might surprise you: vulnerability. Not oversharing. Not self-doubt. But honest, intentional transparency. When leaders admit what they don’t know, and commit to learning out loud, it builds more trust, not less. Your team doesn’t need a hero. They need a leader they can follow through uncertainty.00:00 Don't be fooled by the leadership cliches01:21 I'm Dr. David Burkus01:43 Embrace the Discomfort of Not Knowing02:48 Rehearse for Change04:30 Communicate Transparently and Promptly06:12 Follow This Outline//ABOUT DAVIDOne of the world’s leading business thinkers, David Burkus’ forward-thinking ideas and bestselling books are helping leaders and teams do their best work ever.He is the best-selling author of four books about business and leadership. His books have won multiple awards and have been translated into dozens of languages. His insights on leadership and teamwork have been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Harvard Business Review, USAToday, Fast Company, the Financial Times, Bloomberg BusinessWeek, CNN, the BBC, NPR, and CBS This Morning. Since 2017, Burkus has been ranked as one of the world’s top business thought leaders by Thinkers50. As a sought-after international speaker, his TED Talk has been viewed over 2 million times. He’s worked with leaders from organizations across all industries including Google, Stryker, Fidelity, Viacom, and even the US Naval Academy.A former business school professor, Burkus holds a master’s degree in organizational psychology from the University of Oklahoma, and a doctorate in strategic leadership from Regent University.//NEWSLETTERWant to build your best team ever? Join 25,000+ who receive these insights in my free newsletter: https://davidburkus.com/youtube//SPEAKINGLike what you heard? Find more on David's speaking page (and find out about bringing him to your company or event) at https://davidburkus.com/keynote-speaker///CONNECT+ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidburkus/+ Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/davidburkus+ Facebook: http://www.FB.com/DrDavidBurkus + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/DavidBurkus
Want to build your best team ever? Join 25,000+ who receive these insights in my free newsletter: https://davidburkus.com/podcastWe need to talk about the B players on your team.No, not the rockstar A players. I'm breaking down why B players matter more than you think, and how to lead them well. We’ll cover why not everyone wants to climb the corporate ladder, how to keep these essential team members engaged, and how to avoid the Peter Principle trap (a org-psych classic) that’s plagued promotions for decades.00:00 The B Players00:48 Meet Dr. David Burkus01:09 The Difference Between A Players and B Players02:49 The Peter Principle04:53 The Different Types of B Players07:08 B Players Often Need Permission08:19 Have a Clear Path for the B Players//ABOUT DAVIDOne of the world’s leading business thinkers, David Burkus’ forward-thinking ideas and bestselling books are helping leaders and teams do their best work ever.He is the best-selling author of four books about business and leadership. His books have won multiple awards and have been translated into dozens of languages. His insights on leadership and teamwork have been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Harvard Business Review, USAToday, Fast Company, the Financial Times, Bloomberg BusinessWeek, CNN, the BBC, NPR, and CBS This Morning. Since 2017, Burkus has been ranked as one of the world’s top business thought leaders by Thinkers50. As a sought-after international speaker, his TED Talk has been viewed over 2 million times. He’s worked with leaders from organizations across all industries including Google, Stryker, Fidelity, Viacom, and even the US Naval Academy.A former business school professor, Burkus holds a master’s degree in organizational psychology from the University of Oklahoma, and a doctorate in strategic leadership from Regent University.//NEWSLETTERWant to build your best team ever? Join 25,000+ who receive these insights in my free newsletter: https://davidburkus.com/youtube//SPEAKINGLike what you heard? Find more on David's speaking page (and find out about bringing him to your company or event) at https://davidburkus.com/keynote-speaker///CONNECT+ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidburkus/+ Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/davidburkus+ Facebook: http://www.FB.com/DrDavidBurkus + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/DavidBurkus
Want to build your best team ever? Join 25,000+ who receive these insights in my free newsletter: https://davidburkus.com/podcastSo…you don’t trust your boss anymore. Maybe it’s the broken promises. Maybe it’s the constant micromanaging. Maybe it’s just the feeling you’re on different teams, even though you’re technically supposed to be on the same one. Whatever the reason—if trust is broken, your work, your well-being, your career is going to suffer.In this video, I break down how to deal with bad bosses—and more importantly, how to manage up. Whether you’re dealing with a micromanager, a ghost who’s never around, or a volatile boss, I’ve got tactics to help you navigate the chaos and still do your best work ever.00:00 So, you've had it.00:34 Meet Dr. David Burkus00:55 The Kind of Boss You’re Probably Dealing With01:47 Have The Conversation You’re Avoiding02:31 Try these key phrases in your next conversation03:33 Different Methods for Different Bad Bosses06:56 Build Relationships and Trust Laterally08:52 When To Walk Away//ABOUT DAVIDOne of the world’s leading business thinkers, David Burkus’ forward-thinking ideas and bestselling books are helping leaders and teams do their best work ever.He is the best-selling author of four books about business and leadership. His books have won multiple awards and have been translated into dozens of languages. His insights on leadership and teamwork have been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Harvard Business Review, USAToday, Fast Company, the Financial Times, Bloomberg BusinessWeek, CNN, the BBC, NPR, and CBS This Morning. Since 2017, Burkus has been ranked as one of the world’s top business thought leaders by Thinkers50. As a sought-after international speaker, his TED Talk has been viewed over 2 million times. He’s worked with leaders from organizations across all industries including Google, Stryker, Fidelity, Viacom, and even the US Naval Academy.A former business school professor, Burkus holds a master’s degree in organizational psychology from the University of Oklahoma, and a doctorate in strategic leadership from Regent University.//NEWSLETTERWant to build your best team ever? Join 25,000+ who receive these insights in my free newsletter: https://davidburkus.com/youtube//SPEAKINGLike what you heard? Find more on David's speaking page (and find out about bringing him to your company or event) at https://davidburkus.com/keynote-speaker///CONNECT+ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidburkus/+ Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/davidburkus+ Facebook: http://www.FB.com/DrDavidBurkus + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/DavidBurkus
Want to build your best team ever? Join 25,000+ who receive these insights in my free newsletter: https://davidburkus.com/podcastSomeone on your team let you down—and now trust is broken. What happens next is critical.In this video, I’ll walk you through how to respond when trust is violated at work, without turning a misstep into a meltdown. Whether it was a dropped deadline, a half-truth, or just too little transparency, not every betrayal is the same…and not every one deserves the same response. I’ll show you how to diagnose the damage—competency, integrity, or psychological safety—and choose a path forward that restores the trust loop or resets the rules. This is the tough but necessary work of leadership. Because while trust doesn’t break in a single moment, it does rebuild one decision at a time.00:00 The trust has been broken...now what?01:05 Meet David Burkus01:21 Acknowledge the Emotion02:02 Clarify the Violation03:35 Decide If You’re Open to Repair04:22 Communicate Boundaries and Expectations05:26 Watch the Behavior, Not the Words//ABOUT DAVIDOne of the world’s leading business thinkers, David Burkus’ forward-thinking ideas and bestselling books are helping leaders and teams do their best work ever.He is the best-selling author of four books about business and leadership. His books have won multiple awards and have been translated into dozens of languages. His insights on leadership and teamwork have been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Harvard Business Review, USAToday, Fast Company, the Financial Times, Bloomberg BusinessWeek, CNN, the BBC, NPR, and CBS This Morning. Since 2017, Burkus has been ranked as one of the world’s top business thought leaders by Thinkers50. As a sought-after international speaker, his TED Talk has been viewed over 2 million times. He’s worked with leaders from organizations across all industries including Google, Stryker, Fidelity, Viacom, and even the US Naval Academy.A former business school professor, Burkus holds a master’s degree in organizational psychology from the University of Oklahoma, and a doctorate in strategic leadership from Regent University.//SPEAKINGLike what you heard? Find more on David's speaking page (and find out about bringing him to your company or event) at https://davidburkus.com/keynote-speaker///CONNECT+ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidburkus/+ Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/davidburkus+ Facebook: http://www.FB.com/DrDavidBurkus + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/DavidBurkus
Want to build your best team ever? Join 25,000+ who receive these insights in my free newsletter: https://davidburkus.com/podcastIf you're stepping into a new leadership role and wondering, "How do I build trust with a team I just inherited?"—you’re not alone. Most leaders know trust is essential, but few know how to truly create it with a team they didn’t choose themselves.In this video, I break down exactly what new managers and leaders need to do to build sustainable trust with an inherited team. It’s not about cramming your calendar with one-on-ones or awkward team-building exercises. Trust isn’t just given—or even earned. Trust is reciprocated.00:00 Do these people trust me?00:56 Meet Dr. David Burkus01:12 What Is The Trust Loop?02:03 Signal Vulnerability02:51 Share Privileged Intel03:51 Prepare for the leaps and embrace them.05:07 Practice Active Listening06:06 Share Credit06:17 Treat Disagreements as Collaboration//ABOUT DAVIDOne of the world’s leading business thinkers, David Burkus’ forward-thinking ideas and bestselling books are helping leaders and teams do their best work ever.He is the best-selling author of four books about business and leadership. His books have won multiple awards and have been translated into dozens of languages. His insights on leadership and teamwork have been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Harvard Business Review, USAToday, Fast Company, the Financial Times, Bloomberg BusinessWeek, CNN, the BBC, NPR, and CBS This Morning. Since 2017, Burkus has been ranked as one of the world’s top business thought leaders by Thinkers50. As a sought-after international speaker, his TED Talk has been viewed over 2 million times. He’s worked with leaders from organizations across all industries including Google, Stryker, Fidelity, Viacom, and even the US Naval Academy.A former business school professor, Burkus holds a master’s degree in organizational psychology from the University of Oklahoma, and a doctorate in strategic leadership from Regent University.//SPEAKINGLike what you heard? Find more on David's speaking page (and find out about bringing him to your company or event) at https://davidburkus.com/keynote-speaker///CONNECT+ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidburkus/+ Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/davidburkus+ Facebook: http://www.FB.com/DrDavidBurkus + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/DavidBurkus
Want to build your best team ever? Join 25,000+ who receive these insights in my free newsletter: https://davidburkus.com/podcastMost leaders think a simple “I’m sorry” is enough to repair broken trust. But you know that's not really enough. Real trust isn’t rebuilt with words—it’s rebuilt with actions. In this video, I break down the strategy behind how leaders can truly restore trust after a misstep. Because when trust is broken, you don’t just reset the relationship—you break the trust loop that connects you to your team. And if you want to fix that loop, it starts with full accountability.If you’ve ever said, “That wasn’t my intention,” or “I didn’t mean it that way,” this video is for you. Because intention doesn’t rebuild trust—action does.Chapters:00:00 You messed up, didn't you? 01:05 Meet Dr. David Burkus01:26 Own the mistake fully/Apology Structure02:43 Apologize and mean it. Your team will sense an empty gesture.03:27 Allow open monitoring of your actions.05:12 Follow through on your commitments.//ABOUT DAVIDOne of the world’s leading business thinkers, David Burkus’ forward-thinking ideas and bestselling books are helping leaders and teams do their best work ever.He is the best-selling author of four books about business and leadership. His books have won multiple awards and have been translated into dozens of languages. His insights on leadership and teamwork have been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Harvard Business Review, USAToday, Fast Company, the Financial Times, Bloomberg BusinessWeek, CNN, the BBC, NPR, and CBS This Morning. Since 2017, Burkus has been ranked as one of the world’s top business thought leaders by Thinkers50. As a sought-after international speaker, his TED Talk has been viewed over 2 million times. He’s worked with leaders from organizations across all industries including Google, Stryker, Fidelity, Viacom, and even the US Naval Academy.A former business school professor, Burkus holds a master’s degree in organizational psychology from the University of Oklahoma, and a doctorate in strategic leadership from Regent University.//SPEAKINGLike what you heard? Find more on David's speaking page (and find out about bringing him to your company or event) at https://davidburkus.com/keynote-speaker///CONNECT+ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidburkus/+ Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/davidburkus+ Facebook: http://www.FB.com/DrDavidBurkus + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/DavidBurkus
Want to build your best team ever? Join 25,000+ who receive these insights in my free newsletter: https://davidburkus.com/podcastMost leaders know trust matters. But when it comes to actually building it on a team, too many well-intentioned leaders fall into the trap of personality tests, trust falls (yikes), and awkward icebreakers. Here's what they don't know: trust isn’t earned. It's reciprocated..In this video, I break down the neuroscience of trust (yes, we’re talking oxytocin), how the “Trust Loop” actually works, and the three things every leader needs to do to spark trust first—vulnerability, celebration, and transparency. If you’ve ever felt like your team was holding back, not speaking up, or not quite bought in…you don’t have a communication problem. You’ve got a trust loop problem.00:00 The truth about trust.00:50 Meet David Burkus.01:11 Trust begets trust.01:20 Dr. Paul J. Zak02:53 Trust Loop: Trust04:37 Celebrate failures.05:36 Share privileged intel.06:46 Trust Loop: Leap07:54 Make space for risks.08:43 Trust Loop: Respect08:48 Model active listening.09:35 Treat conflict as collaboration.11:00 Amplify unheard voices.//ABOUT DAVIDOne of the world’s leading business thinkers, David Burkus’ forward-thinking ideas and bestselling books are helping leaders and teams do their best work ever.He is the best-selling author of four books about business and leadership. His books have won multiple awards and have been translated into dozens of languages. His insights on leadership and teamwork have been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Harvard Business Review, USAToday, Fast Company, the Financial Times, Bloomberg BusinessWeek, CNN, the BBC, NPR, and CBS This Morning. Since 2017, Burkus has been ranked as one of the world’s top business thought leaders by Thinkers50. As a sought-after international speaker, his TED Talk has been viewed over 2 million times. He’s worked with leaders from organizations across all industries including Google, Stryker, Fidelity, Viacom, and even the US Naval Academy.A former business school professor, Burkus holds a master’s degree in organizational psychology from the University of Oklahoma, and a doctorate in strategic leadership from Regent University.//SPEAKINGLike what you heard? Find more on David's speaking page (and find out about bringing him to your company or event) at https://davidburkus.com/keynote-speaker///CONNECT+ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidburkus/+ Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/davidburkus+ Facebook: http://www.FB.com/DrDavidBurkus + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/DavidBurkus
Want to build your best team ever? Join 25,000+ who receive these insights in my free newsletter: https://davidburkus.com/podcastHiring for “culture fit” sounds great in theory. You want people who vibe with the team, align with the mission, and are just easy to work with. But in practice? It’s often a shortcut for hiring people who think, act, and look like the rest of the team. And that’s a problem—for innovation, for problem-solving, and for long-term success.In this video, we’re unpacking the REAL meaning of culture fit—and why hiring for “culture contribution” is a much better approach. We’ll break down the research, show you what works (and what doesn’t), and give you actionable steps to build a high-performing, values-driven team. Spoiler: It’s less about “fit” and more about fostering shared values while embracing diverse perspectives.00:00 Intro01:16 This is actually about values and adaptability.03:52 Managers need to build bridges in their teams.04:52 Prevent culture clash.06:17 Hiring for culture fit is a long game. Be patient.//ABOUT DAVIDOne of the world’s leading business thinkers, David Burkus’ forward-thinking ideas and bestselling books are helping leaders and teams do their best work ever.He is the best-selling author of four books about business and leadership. His books have won multiple awards and have been translated into dozens of languages. His insights on leadership and teamwork have been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Harvard Business Review, USAToday, Fast Company, the Financial Times, Bloomberg BusinessWeek, CNN, the BBC, NPR, and CBS This Morning. Since 2017, Burkus has been ranked as one of the world’s top business thought leaders by Thinkers50. As a sought-after international speaker, his TED Talk has been viewed over 2 million times. He’s worked with leaders from organizations across all industries including Google, Stryker, Fidelity, Viacom, and even the US Naval Academy.A former business school professor, Burkus holds a master’s degree in organizational psychology from the University of Oklahoma, and a doctorate in strategic leadership from Regent University.//SPEAKINGLike what you heard? Find more on David's speaking page (and find out about bringing him to your company or event) at https://davidburkus.com/keynote-speaker///CONNECT+ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidburkus/+ Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/davidburkus+ Facebook: http://www.FB.com/DrDavidBurkus + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/DavidBurkus
Want to build your best team ever? Join 25,000+ who receive these insights in my free newsletter: https://davidburkus.com/podcastAre generational clashes at work really as big of a deal as people make them out to be? We’ve all heard the stereotypes—Millennials got participation trophies, Gen Z is lazy, Boomers are out of touch. And let’s be honest, Gen X…well, people just forget to mention Gen X. But what if I told you these so-called generational differences aren’t actually the problem? The real issue isn’t when someone was born—it’s where they are in life. Millennials are balancing careers and family, Boomers are thinking about legacy, and Gen Z is just starting out, trying to figure out where they fit. And yet, we talk about these differences like they’re unbridgeable gaps when, in reality, they’re just different life stages.The truth is, the more we emphasize generational labels, the more we create unnecessary tension. It’s not age that divides teams—it’s the assumptions we make about each other. And as leaders, we have to stop managing based on stereotypes and start focusing on strengths.00:00 Intro00:49 Forget generations. It’s about life stages.02:08 Talk to each other!03:51 Focus on strengths instead of labels.05:25 Make mentoring a two-way street.//ABOUT DAVIDOne of the world’s leading business thinkers, David Burkus’ forward-thinking ideas and bestselling books are helping leaders and teams do their best work ever.He is the best-selling author of four books about business and leadership. His books have won multiple awards and have been translated into dozens of languages. His insights on leadership and teamwork have been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Harvard Business Review, USAToday, Fast Company, the Financial Times, Bloomberg BusinessWeek, CNN, the BBC, NPR, and CBS This Morning. Since 2017, Burkus has been ranked as one of the world’s top business thought leaders by Thinkers50. As a sought-after international speaker, his TED Talk has been viewed over 2 million times. He’s worked with leaders from organizations across all industries including Google, Stryker, Fidelity, Viacom, and even the US Naval Academy.A former business school professor, Burkus holds a master’s degree in organizational psychology from the University of Oklahoma, and a doctorate in strategic leadership from Regent University.//SPEAKINGLike what you heard? Find more on David's speaking page (and find out about bringing him to your company or event) at https://davidburkus.com/keynote-speaker///CONNECT+ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidburkus/+ Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/davidburkus+ Facebook: http://www.FB.com/DrDavidBurkus + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/DavidBurkus
Want to build your best team ever? Join 25,000+ who receive these insights in my free newsletter: https://davidburkus.com/podcastWork-life balance sounds great in theory—keep work over here, life over there, and somehow balance it all so that everything runs smoothly. But here’s the truth: it doesn’t work. Work and life aren’t two separate spheres. They’re intertwined. And trying to keep them perfectly separate? Research shows that just creates more stress, drains your energy, and makes managing teams even harder.In this video, I'll show you helpful tactics for creating better flexibility in your life, that doesn't include making barriers between different parts of it. And no, I'm not asking you or your team to be available and working 24 hours a day. There's a better way, trust me. Watch and find out.00:00 Drawing hard lines between work and life is not practical.01:17 What does the research tell us?03:17 Stop chasing balance. Embrace integration.05:39 Develop transition strategies.06:38 Change your mindset about the 9-5 workday.//ABOUT DAVIDOne of the world’s leading business thinkers, David Burkus’ forward-thinking ideas and bestselling books are helping leaders and teams do their best work ever.He is the best-selling author of four books about business and leadership. His books have won multiple awards and have been translated into dozens of languages. His insights on leadership and teamwork have been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Harvard Business Review, USAToday, Fast Company, the Financial Times, Bloomberg BusinessWeek, CNN, the BBC, NPR, and CBS This Morning. Since 2017, Burkus has been ranked as one of the world’s top business thought leaders by Thinkers50. As a sought-after international speaker, his TED Talk has been viewed over 2 million times. He’s worked with leaders from organizations across all industries including Google, Stryker, Fidelity, Viacom, and even the US Naval Academy.A former business school professor, Burkus holds a master’s degree in organizational psychology from the University of Oklahoma, and a doctorate in strategic leadership from Regent University.//SPEAKINGLike what you heard? Find more on David's speaking page (and find out about bringing him to your company or event) at https://davidburkus.com/keynote-speaker///CONNECT+ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidburkus/+ Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/davidburkus+ Facebook: http://www.FB.com/DrDavidBurkus + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/DavidBurkus
Want to build your best team ever? Join 25,000+ who receive these insights in my free newsletter: https://davidburkus.com/podcastWe've all been there—stuck in a meeting that feels like a complete waste of time, wondering, "Couldn't this have just been an email?" But here's the truth—not every meeting can be an email, and not every email should even be an email. There's a fine line between productive meetings and unnecessary ones, and the key is knowing how to tell the difference.In this video, I break down the science of communication, why meetings sometimes need to happen, and when an email (or even no message at all) is actually the better option. We'll explore research on miscommunication in emails, the hidden dangers of assuming you're being clear, and a simple framework to help you decide whether to hit "send" or book the conference room.Chapters:00:00 Email or meeting?00:22 Meet David Burkus00:41 What does the research tell us?01:09 Is ego the real problem here?03:22 Ask: What's the goal here?04:01 Ask: Is this a monologue or a dialogue?04:48 Ask: How complex is the information?05:35 Ak: Is this a quick yay or nay?06:30 Recap, and start rethinking your meeting calendar!//ABOUT DAVIDOne of the world’s leading business thinkers, David Burkus’ forward-thinking ideas and bestselling books are helping leaders and teams do their best work ever.He is the best-selling author of four books about business and leadership. His books have won multiple awards and have been translated into dozens of languages. His insights on leadership and teamwork have been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Harvard Business Review, USAToday, Fast Company, the Financial Times, Bloomberg BusinessWeek, CNN, the BBC, NPR, and CBS This Morning. Since 2017, Burkus has been ranked as one of the world’s top business thought leaders by Thinkers50. As a sought-after international speaker, his TED Talk has been viewed over 2 million times. He’s worked with leaders from organizations across all industries including Google, Stryker, Fidelity, Viacom, and even the US Naval Academy.A former business school professor, Burkus holds a master’s degree in organizational psychology from the University of Oklahoma, and a doctorate in strategic leadership from Regent University.//SPEAKINGLike what you heard? Find more on David's speaking page (and find out about bringing him to your company or event) at https://davidburkus.com/keynote-speaker///CONNECT+ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidburkus/+ Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/davidburkus+ Facebook: http://www.FB.com/DrDavidBurkus + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/DavidBurkus
Want to build your best team ever? Join 25,000+ who receive these insights in my free newsletter: https://davidburkus.com/podcastAre you constantly tired, overwhelmed, or feeling mentally drained?You might be suffering from "Decision Fatigue," a scientifically proven phenomenon that happens when your brain is overloaded by too many choices. As humans, we all make countless decisions every day. But as a manager, you know it's even more. In this video, I break down the neuroscience of decision fatigue, how it affects your energy, focus, and productivity. More importantly— I have guidance on how to fix it so you can be a better manager. 00:00 Feeling tired at work all the time?00:42 Meet David Burkus01:00 What does the research tell us?02:55 Self-control is a limited resource.03:09 Meet Dr. Roy F. Baumeister03:59 Know your mental tankand plan for it.05:32 Embrace delegating tasksto the team.06:32 Double down on the basics.07:04 You're probably not sleeping enough!//ABOUT DAVIDOne of the world’s leading business thinkers, David Burkus’ forward-thinking ideas and bestselling books are helping leaders and teams do their best work ever.He is the best-selling author of four books about business and leadership. His books have won multiple awards and have been translated into dozens of languages. His insights on leadership and teamwork have been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Harvard Business Review, USAToday, Fast Company, the Financial Times, Bloomberg BusinessWeek, CNN, the BBC, NPR, and CBS This Morning. Since 2017, Burkus has been ranked as one of the world’s top business thought leaders by Thinkers50. As a sought-after international speaker, his TED Talk has been viewed over 2 million times. He’s worked with leaders from organizations across all industries including Google, Stryker, Fidelity, Viacom, and even the US Naval Academy.A former business school professor, Burkus holds a master’s degree in organizational psychology from the University of Oklahoma, and a doctorate in strategic leadership from Regent University.//SPEAKINGLike what you heard? Find more on David's speaking page (and find out about bringing him to your company or event) at https://davidburkus.com/keynote-speaker///CONNECT+ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidburkus/+ Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/davidburkus+ Facebook: http://www.FB.com/DrDavidBurkus + Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/DavidBurkus
Download my Best Team Ever PlayBook now! https://davidburkus.kit.com/playbook-ytMost of us think we’re good listeners—but the truth is, we’re just hearing. Listening isn’t just about nodding and making eye contact; it’s a skill that can be built and refined. And when done right, it’s a game-changer for trust, collaboration, and communication at work.In this video, I’ll introduce you to the REAL framework for active listening: Receive, Engage, Align, and Learn more. It’s a simple, memorable approach that will help you truly connect as a manager with you team.Listening well isn’t just about understanding someone’s words; it’s about ensuring they feel heard, accepted, and valued. That’s what builds trust and strengthens relationships. And this idea isn’t just mine—I’ve been influenced by the incredible work of Julian Treasure, who highlights the science and art of communication, and Charles Duhigg, whose research into habits and human behavior shows how listening can become a superpower for anyone willing to practice it.We’ll also look at eye-opening research from Harvard Business School about how so many of us struggle to stay present in conversations.Chapters:00:-00 How do you Listen?00:37 Meet David Burkus00:54 What does the research tell us?02:17 The REAL Listening Framework03:58 Receive!04:18 Engage!04:42 Align!05:11 Learn More05:48 Also, don't overcomplicate it!//ABOUT DAVIDOne of the world’s leading business thinkers, David Burkus’ forward-thinking ideas and bestselling books are helping leaders and teams do their best work ever.He is the best-selling author of four books about business and leadership. His books have won multiple awards and have been translated into dozens of languages. His insights on leadership and teamwork have been featured in the Wall Street Journal, Harvard Business Review, USAToday, Fast Company, the Financial Times, Bloomberg BusinessWeek, CNN, the BBC, NPR, and CBS This Morning. Since 2017, Burkus has been ranked as one of the world’s top business thought leaders by Thinkers50. As a sought-after international speaker, his TED Talk has been viewed over 2 million times. He’s worked with leaders from organizations across all industries including Google, Stryker, Fidelity, Viacom, and even the US Naval Academy.A former business school professor, Burkus holds a master’s degree in organizational psychology from the University of Oklahoma, and a doctorate in strategic leadership from Regent University.//SPEAKINGLike what you heard? Find more on David's speaking page (and find out about bringing him to your company or event) at https://davidburkus.com/keynote-speaker///CONNECT+ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidburkus/+ Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/davidburkus+ Facebook: http://www.FB.com/DrDavidBurkus+ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/DavidBurkus