230: If You’re Not Investing in People, Close Up Shop | Elena Agaragimova

Update: 2025-10-16

Description

The future of work is changing fast—and managers are at the heart of that transformation.

In this energizing episode, host Damon Lembi sits down with Elena Agaragimova, co-founder and CEO of ShiftWell, to break down what it takes to thrive as a manager in today’s workplace. From advocating for yourself to building a true learning culture, Elena shares candid advice, powerful frameworks, and practical strategies for creating teams that innovate, continuously grow, and stay ahead of the curve.

They explore how organizations can set middle managers up for success, why curiosity and critical thinking are foundational in the AI era, and how to foster a holistic approach to learning and wellbeing—making every member of your team more engaged and resilient. Plus, Elena unveils ShiftWell, her pioneering tech platform, and discusses why future-proofing your company means investing in learning at every level.

Packed with fresh insights, actionable tips, and big-picture perspective, this episode is essential listening for anyone passionate about redefining leadership in a rapidly evolving world.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

Why middle managers are so often “dropped” into leadership without the right support—and what to do about it
The critical skills needed for managers in the age of AI (hint: curiosity and problem-solving top the list)
How to build—and prove—the value of a true learning organization (it's more than just LMS and training)
Elena’s holistic approach to performance: integrating wellbeing, social connection, and continuous feedback
How ShiftWell uses tech (and an AI coach named Clara) to personalize learning and help managers close the gap between potential and performance
What questions senior leaders should be asking before promoting someone to management
Practical, ROI-driven strategies for advocating for your own growth—and why taking ownership of your career is non-negotiable

Timestamps:

00:00 – Advocate for yourself: what new managers need most

01:23 – Why learning culture is key to company survival

02:27 – Middle manager realities: no time to learn, what to do

04:46 – Dropping high performers into management: risks and solutions

06:46 – Is the company really responsible for your development?

07:49 – How to screen future leaders: skills and questions

10:38 – Elena’s journey: higher ed to corporate learning

13:11 – Turning learning into business results: the “future team” concept

16:46 – What makes a learning organization (beyond tools and LMS)

20:09 – Creating space for learning: practical systems

22:36 – Quick wins for learning on a shoestring budget

24:06 – Must-have AI skills for managers

27:03 – AI: opportunities, fears, and the power of curiosity

29:39 – Holistic learning: why wellbeing and environment matter

31:51 – Introducing ShiftWell: personalized learning meets real ROI

35:30 – How ShiftWell’s AI coach, Clara, supports managers and teams

41:09 – ROI for CFOs and execs: measurable impact from learning tech

44:32 – Will employees actually talk to AI coaches?

45:59 – Wonder and achievement: battling burnout with intentional learning

48:09 – The power of “wonder walks”: creating space to think

49:36 – Elena’s vision: what company transformation looks like with ShiftWell

51:46 – Elena’s final takeaway: Intentional learning = real impact

53:17 – Where to connect with Elena

54:02 – Outro: Take ownership & stay curious

About Elena Agaragimova

Elena Agaragimova is co-founder and CEO of ShiftWell, a human-centered tech platform transforming workplace performance and wellbeing. With over 15 years of experience in higher education, corporate learning, and entrepreneurship, Elena has influenced thousands through her innovative coaching, facilitation, and consulting. Her passion for building scalable solutions, nurturing young talent, and driving sustainable engagement shines through. Elena also hosts the Shift with Elena podcast.

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