Episode 27. Keynote speaker and author Chris Clews is the guest. Chris grew up in the 80’s and has gained over 20 years of experience in corporate marketing. His book series "What 80’s Pop Culture Teaches Us About Today's Workplace" merges together these two worlds he knows very well.  

We’ll hear from Chris about the highlights and struggles of workplace culture through the lens of 80’s culture. He also shares important (80’s-related) lessons that can help you no matter what industry or organization you work in.

Key Takeaways

• Chris draws on 80’s culture because even years later its authentic influence remains
• 80’s pop culture was about experimentation and valuing what people actually wanted
• 80’s music and movies were based largely on simple stories and character development
• Through a variety of movies including Ferris Bueller's Day Off, Fast Times at Ridgemont High, The Goonies and Coming to American (among others) we learn:
  • Entrepreneurship has no guarantees—no matter how great you feel your business is
  • True leaders share the stage of success; rulers keep others below the stage
  • Encouragement doesn’t cost a thing, and you can do it every day
  • Saying “I don’t know” is okay and can display strength, confidence, and character
  • Often disengaged people are actually smart people—you can’t judge a book by its cover
  • Inclusivity is crucial in the workplace and may reveal hidden capabilities within the team
  • Helping others to help ourselves
  • Confident people question themselves; Arrogant people question others