Culture Leaders: The Masters Behind Movements
In an era where everything about the way work is changing, CULTURE LEADERS: THE MASTERS BEHIND MOVEMENTS zooms in on the real winning ingredient: vibrant team cul- tures. Each week, learn from elite leaders and culture experts as they confront the genuine dilemmas of today’s organizations. Cut through the noise. Unlock success secrets. Experience the undeniable force of transformative culture.
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Episodes
6 days ago
6 days ago
Justin Wren, renowned MMA fighter turned humanitarian, shares his profound transformation from battling opponents in the ring to fighting for the rights of the forgotten Pygmy communities in Africa. In this powerful interview, Wren unveils the personal struggles and revelations that redirected his path towards creating significant social impact through his non-profit, Fight for the Forgotten. This episode dives deep into the essence of human connection, resilience, and the power of purpose-driven life.
Wren’s journey is a compelling narrative of overcoming personal battles with addiction and depression by dedicating his life to service. Through his work, he provides transformative opportunities for the Pygmy people, focusing on essential resources like water, health, and education. Justin’s efforts go beyond mere charity; they empower communities to sustain themselves and flourish. His story is not just about fighting; it’s about building bridges of empathy and understanding across continents.
Segmented Timestamps
[00:05] The evolution from fighting against people to fighting for people.
[00:50] The inception of Fight for the Forgotten and its mission.
[02:00] Cultural preservation and practical support for the Pygmy communities.
[02:45] Justin’s spiritual awakening and the shift towards a purpose-driven life.
[05:29] Expansion of humanitarian efforts to broader community impact.
[06:25] Embracing the communal proverb: "If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together."
[08:12] The role of partnerships and community involvement in sustainable development.
[10:15] Addressing water scarcity and health care challenges in remote areas.
[13:20] Overcoming personal adversities: From battling addiction to finding purpose.
[15:34] The impact of cultural exchange and mutual learning on Justin's advocacy work.
[18:07] Future plans for Fight for the Forgotten and scaling up the mission.
[20:49] Reflections on leadership and the power of service in personal growth.
[23:15] Justin's vision for a holistic approach to community empowerment.
[25:30] The significance of "going far together" versus "going fast alone" in making a difference.
Notable Quotes
"What is my why? I would say really it's to put love and compassion in action and to fight for people." - Justin Wren
"My journey is one of kind of going from fighting against people to fighting for people." - Justin Wren, on naming his initiative.”- Justin Wren
"I think when there's a strong alignment between the purpose of the company and individual purpose, people are creative, want to do a good job, and want to find ways to use their creativity to make improvements that are mutually beneficial for the employee and the company." - Justin Wren
"The higher up you get, you're always on call. But if you don't love what you do, then it takes a backseat." - Justin Wren
USEFUL LINKS
Reach Justin at:
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thebigpygmy/
Websites:
https://www.fightfortheforgotten.org/
https://give.fightfortheforgotten.org/campaign/compassion-in-action-campaign/c493271
GET MORE FROM THE CULTURE LEADERS PODCAST
Website: https://www.jessicakriegel.com/
Jessica’s LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicakriegel
Culture Partners LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/culturepartners/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jess_kriegel/
Enjoyed the episode? We'd love to hear your thoughts! Please rate / review on Apple.
Tuesday May 07, 2024
Tuesday May 07, 2024
Paul Epstein, a renowned coach and speaker, shares his transformative journey of igniting impact and leaving people and places better than he found them. Drawing inspiration from his late father, a high school teacher for last-chance students, Paul found his calling in empowering others and fostering purpose-driven leadership.
Paul recounts his experiences as the 'Y coach' of the San Francisco 49ers and how serving others became a pivotal part of his life. He discusses the principles that guide his approach to leadership, culture, and personal growth, emphasizing the power of unconditional support and the importance of making meaningful connections.
Join us as Paul Epstein delves into his philosophy of turning challenges into opportunities and his commitment to helping individuals and organizations realize their full potential. It's a story of resilience, dedication, and the relentless pursuit of positive change.
Segmented Timestamps:
Introduction & Paul's 'Why' (00:00 - 00:31): Paul Epstein's mission to ignite impact in people's lives.
The Influence of Paul's Father (00:32 - 01:49): Lessons learned from his father's dedication to education.
Becoming the 'Y Coach' (01:50 - 15:06): Paul's journey to becoming a coach and mentor with the 49ers.
A Life of Service and Growth (15:07 - 56:20): How pouring into others has enriched Paul's life and career.
Looking Ahead (56:21 - End): Paul's advice for living a life that honors those who matter most.
Notable Quotes:
"To ignite impact and the way I think about that it's on a mission to leave people and places better than I found them." - Paul Epstein (00:32.357)
"If you can't get it down to a behavioral level, it's never gonna have a cultural impact, never." - Paul Epstein (15:06.419)
"If I could have one tenth of the impact that my dad had, then it'll be a great life." - Paul Epstein (01:47.375)
USEFUL LINKS
Reach Paul at:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulepsteinspeaks/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paulepsteinspeaks/
Websites: https://www.paulepsteinspeaks.com/
GET MORE FROM THE CULTURE LEADERS PODCAST
Connect with Us on Social Media:
(Instagram URL)
(LinkedIn URL)
Visit Our Website:
jessicakriegel.com
Enjoyed the episode? We'd love to hear your thoughts! Please rate / review on Apple.
Tuesday Apr 30, 2024
Tuesday Apr 30, 2024
Le Ondra Clark Harvey, a distinguished advocate for behavioral health, shares her impactful journey of championing mental health awareness and services. As a leader in advocating for better mental health policies and practices, Harvey brings to light the critical issues surrounding behavioral health, especially in disenfranchised communities.
In this episode of the Culture Leaders Podcast, Le Ondra Clark Harvey explores the nuances of behavioral health, distinguishing it from mental health, and the importance of comprehensive care. She reflects on the challenges faced by various communities in accessing adequate mental health services and the societal stigma associated with seeking help. Harvey discusses her role in shaping policies and influencing legislative changes to improve behavioral health services.
Join us as Le Ondra Clark Harvey delves into her experiences, sharing insights on the importance of inclusive healthcare policies, the transformative power of empathetic leadership, and her commitment to addressing the mental health crisis. She highlights the need for understanding and empathy, not only in healthcare but across all sectors of society.
Segmented Timestamps
[01:02] The motivation behind Harvey's advocacy in behavioral health.
[02:12] Clarifying the difference between behavioral health and mental health.
[05:31] The journey from psychology to advocacy.
[07:21] Impact of the pandemic on mental health awareness.
[14:21] Leading with empathy and vulnerability in mental health advocacy.
[23:50] Training and equipping community members in mental health first aid.
Notable Quotes
"My why is why not. And there's so much work that still has to be done." - Le Ondra Clark Harvey
"We cannot continue to separate [behavioral health] from healthcare because it all goes together. It's all about your health." - Le Ondra Clark Harvey
"I had to sit back for a second and go, wow, that took like five or six years to get that implemented into law, but it was so important and so critical." - On her advocacy work
USEFUL LINKS
Reach Le Ondra at:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/le-ondra-clark-harvey-ph-d-1810b013/
Websites:
https://www.cccbha.org
https://www.californiaaccesscoalition.org
GET MORE FROM THE CULTURE LEADERS PODCAST
Website: https://www.jessicakriegel.com/
Jessica’s LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicakriegel
Culture Partners LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/culturepartners/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jess_kriegel/
Enjoyed the episode? We'd love to hear your thoughts! Please rate / review on Apple.
Wednesday Apr 24, 2024
Wednesday Apr 24, 2024
John Frehse, a renowned expert in labor strategy and workplace culture, shares his insights on the often-overlooked segment of the workforce - the hourly employees. With a career dedicated to representing and elevating the conditions of these essential workers, Frehse's journey is a narrative of passion, empathy, and transformative leadership. His approach to labor strategy champions the dignity and value of every individual in the workforce.
In this episode of the Culture Leaders Podcast, John Frehse delves into the complexities of managing and valuing the hourly workforce. He discusses the importance of understanding the real engine within businesses and the impact of fostering a culture where every employee feels valued and heard. Frehse's reflections on his experiences offer invaluable lessons on leadership, empathy, and the crucial role of effective communication in driving change.
Join us on the Culture Leaders Podcast as John Frehse takes us through his experiences and strategies for creating a more inclusive and supportive workplace environment. He shares his thoughts on the crucial role of frontline workers, the necessity of shifting leadership focus to understand and support their needs, and the profound impact this can have on both company culture and operational success.
Segmented Timestamps:
[02:16] - Representing the hourly workforce.
[03:06] - The underappreciation of factory floor workers.
[04:37] - The importance of leadership understanding frontline needs.
[10:09] - The challenges of implementing effective labor strategies.
[14:43] - The pitfalls of poor leadership and the need for genuine engagement.
[20:00] - Shifting from short-term action to long-term engagement and support.
Notable Quotes:
"The one that gets me up in the morning every day, not just for work, but everything, is representing a largely underrepresented or not represented at all population, which is the hourly workforce." - John Frehse
"If this group of people decided to stop coming to work for a week, it would shut down the US economy." - John Frehse
"If leaders would spend more time understanding where the real engine is inside of their business, we would have a different outcome." - John Frehse
"So they're good at big ideas, they're good at inspirational stories, and they're good at financial results. The challenge is... pausing from all of those activities and going to a larger population." - John Frehse
"I need leaders to believe that communication equals leadership... Our only employees are generally told what to do. Things are reported to them. Things are demanded of them. They're rarely asked anything." - John Frehse
USEFUL LINKS
Reach John at:
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnfrehse/
Bio at Ankura - https://ankura.com/experts-and-advisors/john-frehse
GET MORE FROM THE CULTURE LEADERS PODCAST
Connect with Us on Social Media:
https://www.instagram.com/jess_kriegel/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicakriegel
https://www.linkedin.com/company/culturepartners/
Visit Our Website:
https://www.jessicakriegel.com/
https://culturepartners.com/
Enjoyed the episode? We'd love to hear your thoughts! Please rate / review on Apple.
Tuesday Apr 16, 2024
Tuesday Apr 16, 2024
John Bissell, co-CEO and a pivotal innovator in the chemical industry shares his insights on driving sustainable change and leveraging technology for environmental progress. With a unique blend of technological savvy and entrepreneurial spirit, Bissell has been at the forefront of developing sustainable materials, focusing on both environmental impact and commercial viability.
In this episode of the Culture Leaders Podcast, John Bissell discusses the intricacies of balancing profitability with sustainability, the transformative power of technology in addressing global environmental challenges, and the critical role of leadership in navigating the complexities of modern business. He delves into the mindset required for innovative entrepreneurship and the strategic approach to fostering a culture of adaptability and growth.
Join us as John Bissell takes us through his journey in the chemical industry, reflecting on the importance of making conscious decisions that benefit both humanity and the planet, and the future of sustainable practices in business.
Segmented Timestamps
[00:17] John's why: Advancing human health and the planet.
[01:12] Balancing profitability with sustainability.
[04:11] The opportunity in sustainable materials and energy production.
[06:06] Capitalism as a scaling function for impactful technology.
[09:20] The benefits of a co-CEO model in handling fast growth.
[14:20] Recruiting top talent and fostering a high-performance culture.
[19:53] The challenge of maintaining alignment during rapid scaling.
Notable Quotes
"We're bringing technology that is a meaningful part of the once in a planet change to sustainable materials and energy production." - John Bissell
"You have to make explicit decisions and trade-offs between making money and long-term benefit." - John Bissell
"Hacking capitalism is leveraging the system of capitalism to scale your purpose." - John Bissell
"It's all about bringing new technology and making the human species better by bringing new technology to the market." - John Bissell
"My why really is focus on the same thing as the mission of the company, Origin, which is how can I bring technologies to the world or to humanity that really advance human health, the planet. You know, it'd be nice to make some money along the way for people that are involved." - John Bissell
USEFUL LINKS
Reach John at:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jabissell/
Website: https://www.originmaterials.com/
GET MORE FROM THE CULTURE LEADERS PODCAST
Website: https://www.jessicakriegel.com/
Jessica’s LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicakriegel
Culture Partners LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/culturepartners/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jess_kriegel/
Enjoyed the episode? We'd love to hear your thoughts! Please rate / review on Apple.
Tuesday Apr 09, 2024
Tuesday Apr 09, 2024
Scott Domann, an advocate for mental health and wellness in the workplace, shares his insights on fostering a culture that prioritizes employee well-being. In this enlightening interview, Domann discusses the significance of mental health in professional settings and the responsibility of leaders to create a supportive environment. He emphasizes the need for proactive approaches to mental health and the importance of open communication and empathy within teams.
Domann's expertise lies in implementing strategies that support mental wellness at work. By sharing his personal experiences and professional insights, he offers valuable guidance for leaders seeking to enhance their team's mental health. Domann highlights the impact of simple yet meaningful conversations and the role of self-care in maintaining mental well-being. His approach underscores the importance of acknowledging and addressing mental health challenges in the workplace, ultimately leading to a more inclusive and supportive work environment.
This interview serves as a compelling exploration of the critical role of mental health in the workplace, shedding light on the importance of leadership in promoting a culture of understanding and support. Domann's thoughtful perspectives inspire leaders to prioritize mental wellness in their organizations, fostering a healthier and more productive work environment for all.
Segmented Timestamps
[02:06] The significance of mental health in the workplace.
[03:25] The role of self-care in professional well-being.
[04:12] Leadership strategies for supporting mental health.
[06:59] The power of asking, "How are you doing?"
[09:40] Practical tips for managers to support their teams.
[16:43] Organizational approaches to mental wellness.
[24:15] Challenges of remote work on mental health.
[32:20] Future directions for workplace mental health initiatives.
[39:07] Addressing mental health needs of diverse groups.
[41:12] The ongoing relevance of mental health awareness.
Notable Quotes
"For me, it's really being able to look at mental health and wellness at work and being able to make a difference in the lives of people at Calm." - Scott Domann
"You have to be selfish with your mental health and wellness, you have to listen to your body, you have to listen to the people around you." - Scott Domann
"I always go to the simplicity of asking the question, 'How are you doing? No, really, how are you doing?'" - Scott Domann
USEFUL LINKS
Reach Scott at:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-domann-67514b/
Website: https://business.calm.com/
GET MORE FROM THE CULTURE LEADERS PODCAST
Website: https://www.jessicakriegel.com/
Jessica’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicakriegel
Culture Partners LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/culturepartners/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jess_kriegel/
Enjoyed the episode? We'd love to hear your thoughts! Please leave us a review.
Tuesday Apr 02, 2024
Tuesday Apr 02, 2024
Join us in this episode of Culture Leaders Podcast as we delve into the world of Jason Greer, a diversity and labor relations expert. From a career that chose him, Jason has risen to become a beacon of positive change in workplaces. He shares his story of connecting with diverse individuals and influencing organizations for the better.
As a consultant and "employee whisperer," Jason's gift lies in uncovering commonalities across different strata of an organization. His insights into labor relations and corporate culture challenge conventional approaches and highlight the necessity of genuine respect and recognition in motivating employees.
In this engaging conversation, Jason explores the evolving dynamics of the modern workplace and the impact of societal changes on organizational behavior. He also discusses the critical role of leaders in bridging gaps and creating an environment where every employee feels valued and heard.
Segmented Timestamps:
[00:00] Introduction & Jason's Background
[01:49] Core Motivations
[11:33] Commonalities in Organizations
[24:44] Current Workplace Trends
[29:36] Labor Unions and Fiscal Sustainability
[43:49] Systemic Challenges in America
Notable Quotes:
"Life. And when I say what is my why, when I answer it with life, it's I've been fortunate to see so many people from so many different walks of life." - Jason Greer (00:23.512)
"People will work for money, but they'll die for respect and they'll die for recognition." - Jason Greer (01:49.604)
"It's very difficult for the employee who's only making 30 or $40,000 a year to believe that CEO has any issues in common with the issues that you have." - Jason Greer (11:33.232)
"I want to know that I matter and You can tell me that I matter but I want to see you demonstrate it." - Jason Greer (02:32.972)
America, we have to do almost a great reset." - Jason Greer on systemic issues (29:56.56)
USEFUL LINKS
Reach Jason at:
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jasongreer-laborrelationsexpert
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jason.greer/
Website: www.hiregci.com
GET MORE FROM THE CULTURE LEADERS PODCAST
Connect with Us on Social Media:
https://www.instagram.com/jess_kriegel/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicakriegel
https://www.linkedin.com/company/culturepartners/
Visit Our Website:
https://www.jessicakriegel.com/
https://culturepartners.com/
Enjoyed the episode? We'd love to hear your thoughts! Please rate / review on Apple.
Tuesday Mar 26, 2024
Tuesday Mar 26, 2024
From the vibrant lights of L.A. to the revolutionary ideas that are reshaping showbiz, Darren shares his journey. His story is one of creativity and determination, where the quest for better audition processes led to groundbreaking innovations in the industry.
Darren's deep connection to theater and the arts, rooted in their ability to transcend and unite people from all walks of life, forms the backdrop of his mission. In our conversation, he highlights how the inefficiencies in the traditional auditioning process spurred him to action, leading to transformative solutions that not only streamline the process but also foster a sense of community and inclusion.
Join us as Darren shares his experiences and insights, delving into the challenges he faced and the innovative solutions he proposed. His story is not just about changing the process but also about fostering a community where everyone, regardless of background or skin color, has an equal opportunity to shine.
Segmented Timestamps
[00:00] Introduction to Darren Darnborough’s Story in Showbiz.
[03:00] The Power of Theater and Arts.
[09:40] Rethinking Auditions.
[16:55] Embracing Inclusivity.
[23:30] Envisioning the Future of Entertainment.
[30:00] Insights for Actors and Industry Innovators.
Notable Quotes
"Theater and the arts have this transcendent quality that unites people." ~ Darren Darnborough
"The changes we make change people's lives." ~ Darren Darnborough
"Having people that understand where you're coming from is very underrated." ~ Darren Darnborough
"Our business is inherently competitive. It shouldn't be. A lot of people see it as a zero sum game. If I get the role, you don't get the role." - Darren Darnborough
USEFUL LINKS:
Reach Darren at:
Websites: http://WeAudition.com | http://www.imdb.me/darrendarnborough
GET MORE FROM THE CULTURE LEADERS PODCAST
Connect with Us on Social Media:
https://www.instagram.com/jess_kriegel/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicakriegel
https://www.linkedin.com/company/culturepartners/
Visit Our Website:
https://www.jessicakriegel.com/
https://culturepartners.com/
Enjoyed the episode? We'd love to hear your thoughts! Please rate / review on Apple.
Tuesday Mar 19, 2024
Tuesday Mar 19, 2024
Shan Cooper, a visionary leader and a pivotal figure in the realm of diversity and inclusion, shares her groundbreaking journey at Lockheed Martin. From initiating and leading the diversity programs to reshaping the corporate culture, Cooper's story is a testament to her commitment to creating more inclusive and equitable workplaces. As the inaugural head of diversity at Lockheed Martin, she has played a crucial role in embedding these values deeply into the company's core operations.
In this episode of Culture Leaders Podcast, Shan Cooper delves into the nuances of spearheading cultural transformation in a corporate setting. She reflects on the challenges and triumphs of advocating for diversity and inclusion, emphasizing the strategic importance of these initiatives in modern business practices. Cooper also discusses her leadership style, influenced by her faith and personal values, and how it has guided her in navigating through times of change.
Join us as Shan Cooper takes us through her inspiring journey at Lockheed Martin, sharing her insights on effective diversity strategies, the evolving role of HR in corporate America, and the critical need for empathetic and inclusive leadership in today's business world.
Segmented Timestamps:
[02:42] The genesis of diversity initiatives at Lockheed Martin.
[04:29] Overcoming challenges in cultural transformation.
[12:27] Leadership roles and advocating for diversity.
[18:37] Effective strategies for inclusive corporate culture.
[24:15] The influence of personal values on leadership style.
[31:13] Future perspectives on diversity and corporate leadership.
Notable Quotes:
"I was created to help people be their best selves." - Shan Cooper
"I wasn't sure what I was doing. So I tell you what, mentoring is so important." - Shan Cooper
"You have to be real clear about where the organization is going." - Shan Cooper
"You've got to find ways to engage people in the process of the change." - Shan Cooper
USEFUL LINKS
Reach Shan at:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shan-cooper-1656a710/
Website: https://shancooper.com/
GET MORE FROM THE CULTURE LEADERS PODCAST
Connect with Us on Social Media:
https://www.instagram.com/jess_kriegel/
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicakriegel
https://www.linkedin.com/company/culturepartners/
Visit Our Website:
https://www.jessicakriegel.com/
https://culturepartners.com/
Enjoyed the episode? We'd love to hear your thoughts! Please rate / review on Apple.
Tuesday Mar 12, 2024
Tuesday Mar 12, 2024
From a college student with a passion for paint to a social media sensation and a pioneering entrepreneur, Tony Piloseno's journey is a story of creativity, innovation, and breaking boundaries. Tony, the founder of Tonester Paints, shares his unique story on this episode of Culture Leaders Podcast.
As a young paint mixer, Tony's flair for creating extraordinary colors and textures caught the eyes of millions on social media, leading him to establish Tonester Paints. The company, with its handcrafted approach to paint production, is not just about colors; it's about redefining the paint industry and connecting people through the art of color.
In this episode, Tony delves into the challenges he faced in transforming his viral fame into a sustainable business. He speaks candidly about the skepticism from traditional paint companies and how he overcame these challenges to build a brand that's synonymous with innovation and personal touch.
Tony's vision extends beyond just selling paint; it's about inspiring others to see the world in new colors and to pursue their passions relentlessly. He emphasizes the importance of authenticity in a world dominated by mass production and commercialization.
Join us on Culture Leaders Podcast as Tony Piloseno shares insights into his entrepreneurial journey, his creative process, and his future aspirations for Tonester Paints. It's an inspiring story of how a simple passion for paint can lead to a vibrant and successful business that challenges the norms and brings color to life in new ways.
Segmented Timestamps
Introduction & Tony's Background (00:00 - 02:59): Getting to know Tony Piloseno and his early interests in paint.
The Spark of Creativity (03:00 - 09:39): How working at a paint store ignited Tony's creative journey.
Rise to TikTok Fame (09:40 - 16:54): The moment Tony's videos went viral and changed his life.
Entrepreneurial Challenges (16:55 - 23:29): Overcoming the hurdles of starting and growing a brand.
The Creative Process (23:30 - 29:59): A deep dive into Tony's approach to creating engaging content.
Looking to the Future (30:00 - End): Tony's aspirations for his brand and advice for fellow creators.
Notable Quotes
"I want to inspire others to add unique colors into their home. It's pure emotion." ~ Tony Piloseno
"Every day I'm on vacation because I get to do what I want to do every day." ~ Tony Piloseno
"It's like they're buying it from a real person, not just a random can of paint from a hardware store."
"What really helps them understand the passion and the importance of building a brand is that they're in the early phases of it." ~ Tony Piloseno
USEFUL LINKS
Reach Tony at:
Website: https://tonesterpaints.com/
GET MORE FROM THE CULTURE LEADERS PODCAST
Connect with Us on Social Media:
www.instagram.com/jess_kriegel/
linkedin.com/in/jessicakriegel
www.linkedin.com/company/culturepartners/
Visit Our Website:
jessicakriegel.com
Enjoyed the episode? We'd love to hear your thoughts! Please rate / review on Apple.