In this episode of the Improvement Nerds Podcast, host Mark Ryan sits down with leadership coach and founder of Ground Rules Coaching, Laura Hayes, to unpack what real accountability looks like—and why it’s often misunderstood. From toxic blame culture to practical tools that drive responsibility, Laura helps us reframe accountability as a path to empowerment, not punishment.



With certifications in Gallup StrengthsFinders, DiSC, Enneagram, The Five Behaviors, and Empathy Training, Laura brings a wealth of insight and heart to the conversation. Whether you’re a team leader, executive, or just trying to show up better at work, this episode is packed with actionable wisdom.



🔗 Laura’s Website: https://groundrulescoaching.com



⏱️ Timestamps

00:00 – Welcome & Introductions

02:24 – What accountability isn’t (and why people resist it)

06:55 – How to create a psychologically safe environment for real accountability

11:33 – The difference between expectations and agreements

16:50 – Addressing underperformance without shame

21:12 – The “Accountability Ladder” framework

27:45 – Tools to coach your team into ownership

34:10 – How empathy plays a key role in leadership

39:20 – Laura’s favorite client stories and breakthroughs

44:02 – Leadership self-awareness: where it starts

47:18 – Final thoughts and how to connect with Laura



🧠 Key Themes:



Redefining accountability



Tools for effective coaching conversations



Creating agreements over assigning blame



Why self-awareness is leadership’s secret weapon



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