In episode 417 of The Brainy Business podcast, Melina Palmer interviews Justin Jones-Fosu, author of I Respectfully Disagree. Justin, the CEO of Work Meaningful, is a dynamic speaker and thought leader on topics of meaningful work and inclusion, delivering over 50 keynote addresses annually. His latest book delves into navigating difficult conversations in a divided world, a theme central to today’s discussion.

Throughout the episode, Justin shares his insights on creating meaningful work environments and the importance of respectful disagreement. He emphasizes the significance of individuals finding meaning in their work, rather than relying solely on organizational missions. Justin introduces the 3 Rhythm Model, focusing on perspective, tasks, and relationships as key ways to bring meaning to work. He also addresses the concept of respectful disagreement, encouraging healthy conflict and curiosity within teams to foster better outcomes and innovation.

In this episode:

• Discover the 3 Rhythm Model to bring meaning to your work.
• Learn how to create a culture of respectful disagreement in the workplace.
• Understand the importance of modeling and rewarding healthy conflict.
• Explore practical tips for challenging your perspective and engaging with diverse viewpoints.
• Gain insights into cognitive reframing and the value of hearing real stories.

Show Notes:

00:00:00 - Introduction
Melina introduces Justin Jones-Fosu and his work on meaningful work and respectful disagreement.

00:02:15 - Justin's Background
Justin shares his journey, including his role as CEO of Work Meaningful and his latest book, I Respectfully Disagree.

00:06:30 - Meaningful Work Defined
Justin explains the concept of meaningful work and the 3 Rhythm Model: perspective, tasks, and relationships.

00:12:45 - Individual vs. Organizational Meaning
The focus shifts to how individuals can find meaning in their work, regardless of the organization's mission.

00:16:20 - The Greenhouse Effect
Justin discusses the role of leaders in creating environments that foster meaningful work and engagement.

00:21:00 - Respectful Disagreement
Transitioning to the topic of respectful disagreement, Justin explains the benefits of healthy conflict and curiosity in teams.

00:25:10 - Practical Tips for Leaders
Justin provides actionable advice for leaders on modeling, rewarding, and seeking out disagreement.

00:27:00 - Conclusion
What stuck with you while listening to the episode? What are you going to try? Come share it with Melina on social media -- you'll find her as @thebrainybiz everywhere and as Melina Palmer on LinkedIn.

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Connect with Justin:

• Justin’s Website
• How to Respectfully Disagree
• Justin on LinkedIn

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Check out and get your copies of Melina’s Books. 

Get the Books Mentioned on (or related to) this Episode:

• I Respectfully Disagree, by Justin Jones-Fosu
• Finding Confidence in Conflict, by Kwame Christian
• Let’s Talk, by Therese Huston
• Powerful Phrases for Dealing with Workplace Conflict, by Karin Hurt and David Dye
• What Your Employees Need and Can't Tell You, by Melina Palmer

Top Recommended Next Episode: Kwame Christian Interview (ep 221)

Already Heard That One? Try These: 

• Focusing Illusion (ep 89)
• Confirmation Bias (ep 260)
• Framing (ep 296)
• Therese Huston Interview (ep 381)
• Karin Hurt Interview (ep 393)

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