Bob 'n Joyce Talk HR 'n OD

In this episode, Bob ‘n Joyce dive into how to create and sustain organizational resiliency—a must-have competency in today's fast-changing business world. We kick things off with a little game we call “learning.” First, we share our personal and professional takes on what makes a workplace truly resilient. Then, in the next episode, we'll check in with the experts at MIT Sloan Management Review to see how our perspectives stack up. Some of the ideas we unpack today: • Getting real about the challenge • Community – We are ‘in this' together • Focusing on excellence and winning • Embracing risk—and yes, learning from failure So grab a snack, pull up a chair, and join the conversation. And hey, we'd love to hear your take on resiliency too.

After we hit “stop” on our last episode, Tight Ship or Jazz Band?, we realized the conversation wasn't over. The tension between discipline and flexibility kept tugging at us — and stirred up a few stories (and laughs) we hadn't yet shared. So we're back, diving deeper into the power and pitfalls of routine, the magic of improvisation, and why finding that balance matters more than ever in today's workplace. In this follow-up episode, Bob ‘n Joyce: • Unpack why some habits feel safe but may be limiting innovation • Talk about real-life moments when “flugidity” made all the difference • Explore how leaders can create cultures that flex without falling apart • Challenge listeners to reexamine what structure they're clinging to — and why Whether you're running a tight ship or playing in a jazz band, this encore conversation is for anyone trying to lead with more ease, creativity, and courage.

Bob ‘n Joyce riff on how much structure is too much — and when it's time to improvise. In this episode, they dive into the ongoing tug-of-war between discipline and flexibility — habits that create stability vs. the adaptability that sparks innovation. Once upon a time, businesses prized routine, rituals, and predictability. But in today's fast-moving world, research suggests agility and openness may be even more crucial. So, which is it? The truth may lie somewhere in the messy, magical middle. In this episode, Bob ‘n Joyce: • Coin a new word: flugidity – the courage to challenge routines that no longer serve the business • Reveal how rigid habits and SOPs can create dangerous blind spots • Explore what's changed in the workplace to shift the balance toward flexibility • Talk about the magic of mastering your craft and dancing in the moment If your weekly ritual includes tuning in to us — well, that's one habit we fully support. So grab a snack, get comfy, and let's jump in.

In this episode, Bob ‘n Joyce explore what it really takes to create a workplace where people thrive — and it's a lot more than free snacks and ping pong tables. They dive into the idea of on-site wellness centers, where employees can unplug, recharge, and access real support. Imagine a workplace that offers: ✅ Manicures and massage therapy ✅ On-site counseling for burnout or stress ✅ Flu and COVID shots without leaving the office ✅ Yoga, dance, and meditation sessions Bob ‘n Joyce make the case that this isn't a far-out fantasy. Companies like SAS Institute in Cary, NC, have been doing it for over 40 years — and it's a big reason they consistently rank among the best places to work in America. Tune in for fresh ideas on how your company can move beyond surface perks and start building a true culture of care. Come on in, grab a snack, and welcome!

In this episode, Bob 'n Joyce explore the common practice of relying on the same group of people—time and again—to get important work done. Joyce calls them the “spoiled brats,” while Bob refers to them as the “usual suspects” or “chosen ones.” The problem? This habit unintentionally sidelines the talent in waiting—the wild cards and up-and-comers—who miss out on critical development opportunities. We dive into practical ways to tap the full potential of your organization by broadening access to special projects and growth experiences beyond the usual favorites. In this episode: • Eye-opening stories about the surprising success of newbies and wild cards • A breakdown of a common flaw in talent planning that keeps this pattern alive • Why hands-on project work often beats traditional training for impact If your company is stuck picking from the same short list—and it's holding you back—this episode is your wake-up call. So pull up a chair, grab your favorite snack, and let's shake things up together.

In today's episode, Bob ‘n Joyce pick up where they left off in episode 185, diving deeper into how leaders can navigate turbulent and unsettling times with intention and heart. The key? Leaders must first ground themselves before engaging in conversations about what the business needs to move forward. But how do you get grounded? Where do you start, and with whom? And how can leaders truly support their teams—not just to survive, but to thrive? Here are a few hints to guide the discussion: • Start by scanning the environment before jumping into action. • Never underestimate the power of a meaningful conversation. • Speak the truth—sugarcoating doesn't soothe, truth does. • Counter exhaustion by encouraging play and nurturing the system. Like episode 185, there are no neat bows here—just real, practical ideas to chew on. So come on in. Grab a soothing snack or beverage. Welcome!

In this episode, Bob 'n Joyce sit down with someone who really knows how to spark transformation from the inside out—Ernesto Gómez Arzapalo. He's worn a lot of hats—OD consultant, c-suite exec, academic, serial entrepreneur—and somehow manages to still be one of the nicest guys you'll ever meet. Ernesto brings the kind of wisdom you only get from decades in the trenches—leading people-first cultural overhauls for companies with tens of thousands of employees, while also launching his own ventures and guest lecturing at a top-tier business school. We dig into the ideas behind his new book, Regrowth – How Organizations Can Overcome Stalling by Unlocking Their People's Potential, and trust us: this isn't your typical corporate jargon. Ernesto drops practical, sometimes surprising insights that can help any organization—or individual—get unstuck and thrive. This convo is full of stories, laughter, and that rare mix of head and heart. You'll hear how Ernesto helped shift cultures inside massive companies, why unlocking human potential isn't just HR's job, and how his journey from Mexico to MIT continues to shape his work and life. So grab a coffee. Maybe a snack. And come hang out with us—you'll leave this one with a full brain and a full heart.

In this episode, Bob and Joyce explore the critical importance of handling employee terminations the right way. When done poorly, these moments don't just affect the individuals involved—they send shockwaves through the entire organization, damaging culture and trust. The conversation is sparked by the troubling trend of mass layoffs via impersonal emails, as seen recently in the U.S. government. With such cold, transactional approaches becoming more common, are we at risk of normalizing workplace incivility? While layoffs and terminations are sometimes necessary due to business demands, how they're handled speaks volumes about an organization's values and leadership. This is where HR and OD professionals must step up to ensure fairness, dignity, and alignment with company culture. Grab a snack and join us as we dive into this crucial conversation.

In this episode, Bob and Joyce reflect on the evolving role of HR and OD amidst today's profound global disruptions. Drawing inspiration from Meg Wheatley—author and organizational wellness expert—we explore the concept of creating islands of sanity in a world where many feel isolated, ignored, or overwhelmed. We discuss practical ways to build strong, sustainable work communities that foster possibility, even in the face of chaos and negativity. About Meg Wheatley's Book, Who Do We Choose to Be? “This book is born of my desire to summon leaders in this time of profound disruption—to reclaim leadership as a noble profession that cultivates possibility and humanness in the midst of fear and turmoil.” The work ahead is not for the faint of heart, but you're not alone. As your OD partners, we'll be with you every step of the way. So come on in, grab a snack, and let's dive in. Welcome!

In this episode, Bob ‘n Joyce welcome Dr. Rob Lion, a strategist, professor, and expert in workplace culture, leadership development, and performance improvement. With a passion for helping students, business leaders, and HR/OD practitioners grow and thrive, Rob blends academic rigor with real-world experience to create sustainable, high-performance practices. His consultancy, Black River Performance Management, is built on the philosophy that success comes from applying proven models and strategies—what he calls his tools. As he puts it, “Where science meets practice.” Join us as Dr. Rob shares insights from 20+ years of experience—what's worked, what hasn't, and how organizations can cultivate thriving workplace cultures. Come on in, grab a snack, and enjoy the conversation! About Dr. Rob Lion Dr. Rob Lion is a seasoned expert in human resource development and organizational behavior. As a professor at Idaho State University, he has mentored the next generation of leaders while consulting with executives, business owners, and community leaders to build people-centric, high-performing organizations. Through Black River Performance Management, Rob helps organizations enhance leadership effectiveness, optimize team performance, and tackle complex workplace challenges. His evidence-based, psychology-driven approach ensures measurable, lasting results. Interested in how Dr. Rob can support your organization? Get in touch:

In today's episode, Bob ‘n Joyce dive into how people react to change—especially in the workplace. If you're a change agent or work in organizational development, you won't be surprised by resistance to change. But what may surprise you are the practical steps you can take to minimize chaos and increase the chances of success. With most organizational changes falling short of their intended benefits, understanding how to navigate resistance is crucial. The key? Recognizing that people respond to change in vastly different ways—there's no one-size-fits-all approach. So come on in, grab a snack, and let's talk about the messy, unpredictable, and sometimes surprising world of change. Welcome!

In this episode, we tackle a conversation we'd rather avoid—but know we must have. How can leaders create the conditions for constructive dialogue in divisive times? Do they take a stand based on their company's vision, values, and business needs, even if it alienates some? Or do they stay silent, wary of the risks in today's political climate? We don't claim to have “the” answer, but we do offer ideas on how to: • Prepare people for difficult conversations. • Take it slow—without turning it into an initiative or labeling it. • Act once you're grounded in what's real and what the company needs. • Foster a space for candid, honest dialogue. No neatly wrapped solutions here—just real talk. We think you'll enjoy it anyway. Come on in, grab a snack, and welcome!

In this episode, Bob ‘n Joyce explore the power of deliberate and intentional leadership. Too often, we miss opportunities to maximize our impact by reacting impulsively to the chaos around us. Instead of leading with purpose, we get swept up in the moment. Leading with intention means consciously choosing our words and actions to shape outcomes rather than merely responding to circumstances. This practice doesn't come naturally—it requires patience, self-awareness, and the ability to step back and see the bigger picture. We share real-world examples and practical strategies to help you cultivate intentional leadership in both your professional and personal life. So, are you ready to take control of how you show up as a leader? Join us for this insightful conversation—grab a snack, settle in, and let's dive in!

In today's episode, Bob ‘n Joyce welcome Mark Carpenter, author and leadership consultant, to discuss his work helping leaders bring their full humanity to work. Mark's leadership premise is that there are leadership positions and there are leaders and that the two should not be confused. They may coexist together but too often they don't. Mark helps front line leaders and executives connect the dots between a healthy business and the way that they lead. In today's episode, you will discover: - What it means to lead like a person - Common mistakes in leadership development - Mark's three essential leadership skills - Actionable ideas for your business Come on in. Grab a snack. Welcome! About Mark Carpenter: Mark's passion is helping others achieve more of their potential, and uses his three decades of experience to provide perspective and guidance to others. He loves speaking, facilitating, coaching, consulting in communications, leadership development, motivation, change management, and storytelling as a leadership skill. His Master Storytelling program helps individuals and teams turn their real-life experiences into stories that teach, lead, sell, and inspire. Mark spent 10 years as an adjunct professor in communications, and often spoke at a wide variety of conferences for industries ranging from health care to manufacturing to project management to public relations and more. He is a master certified trainer for Crucial Learning courses: Crucial Conversations for Mastering Dialogue, Crucial Conversations for Accountability, Influencer, and Getting Things Done. https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-carpenter-0b55221/

In this episode, Bob ‘n Joyce discuss the findings of a Strategy + Business Newsletter article on the 5 qualities that leaders must possess to succeed in today's world. These qualities imply a shift from the metrics of efficiency and performance to managing the more intangible aspects of the business such as governance, environmental impact, and a positive work culture. We muse about the implications of these new qualities on HR/OD and what new leadership models may emerge to guide the next generation. What we know for sure is that what was once linear and concrete about leading is becoming fungible and murky. Welcome to world as we all know it. For those of you who are interested, here is a link to the article: https://www.strategy-business.com/article/The-five-new-foundational-qualities-of-effective-leadership Come on in. Grab a snack. Welcome!

In this episode, Bob'nJoyce talk with Ryan Englin about what businesses can do to fully leverage the power of the people closest to the work. Englin is a gritty, no bull coach who helps business owners get real about what's needed to build strong teams that drive business success. Some of Ryan's thought-provoking insights include: Being authentic to your brand, even if it's edgy and doesn't appeal to everyone. The importance of building a strong connection between the culture you want and the people you hire. Working from the top-down and bottom-up to make positive change stick. Teasing out the difference between “training” and “learning” and why both are important. What sets Englin apart is his passion for helping small business owners do a lot of the small things that make a big difference. Business big and small will benefit from his wisdom. Come on in. Grab a snack. Welcome! If you'd like to meet with Ryan Englin, you can book a complimentary discover call at www.corematters.com

Today, Joris Merks-Benjaminsen joins us from the Netherlands to share his work helping companies cultivate leaders who emphasize both accountability and human connection to achieve extraordinary results. Joris is an award-winning author, brand and marketing expert, successful business leader, and entrepreneur. In 2022, after 22 years in various corporate roles, Joris launched his company, Managing without Power. He also wrote a book by the same title. Joris personifies the key elements of his work - he is a very nice guy with an edge. He is also a smart, insightful and humble person. If you would like to talk with Joris about what he can do for your team or organization, you can reach him through his website: https://www.managingwithoutpower.com (https://www.managingwithoutpower.com) Let's get started. Come on in. Grab a snack. Welcome!

Bob' n Joyce look ahead to 2025 and share what workplace pundits tell us what we can expect this year. Instead of regurgitating a boring list, they synthesize them down to the 4 biggies, and then play their “What-if?” game to stimulate our thinking about actions we can take. There are some pleasant surprises about what the experts* predict resulting in more productive, healthy and fulfilling workplaces. As the title of this podcast implies, the key is to have courage to take action. The courage comes from knowing that in these fluid times, not everything will work. Come on in. Grab a healthy snack. Welcome! • Based on Deloitte's report in Global Human Capital Trends

In this episode, Bob ‘n Joyce put the spotlight on OD/HR practitioners and their role helping organizations navigate these exhilarating but terrifying times. Institutions, governments, and people worldwide are being challenged in ways not seen before. What can organizational development and HR people do help their companies thrive in these times? And what can we do on this podcast to support you? Today, we attempt to answer these questions. Our goal is to be an island of sanity you can visit each week to get inspired and recharged. That why we have showed up every week for over three years. And in doing so, we get ourselves inspired and recharged. Come on in. Grab a snack. Welcome!

In this episode, Bob ‘n Joyce talk about the emotional highs and lows that surround the holidays. At a time when people feel compelled to be joyful, the holidays can also be a profoundly sad time. Today, we explore the power of expressing both the negative and positive emotions on any given situation or topic. We use the context of the holidays but it applies to most life circumstances and especially to the workplace. Today's episode was intended to express the positivity and joy of the season. Instead, Bob ‘n Joyce expose both the magic and hurt of the holidays. It was a cathartic conversation that was just what we both needed. We think you will too, so: Come on in. Grab a holiday snack. Welcome!

In today's episode, Bob'nJoyce discuss the impact OD/HR practitioners have shaping culture and transforming organizations. The spotlight, much to her chagrin, is on Joyce and her impact first at Central Maine Power, and later at Hannaford and Delhaize. It underscores the importance of what great leaders do – drive positive change while focusing on the business and its people, and not on themselves. We are ending 2024 with episodes that inspire thought and positivity. Last week it was about the power of connection and community. This week it is about the work that makes it so. Kudos to my co-host and friend, Joyce Wilson-Sanford – who was and still is a force to be reckoned with. Come on in. Grab a snack. Welcome.

In this episode, Bob'nJoyce discuss why building community and connection in the workplace should be every leader's responsibility. Research shows that the loneliness crisis is worsening as people are feel more isolated and marginalized. When this is prevalent in the workplace, overall morale, productivity, and safety suffer. The opportunity for HR, OD, and Leadership is that a healthy workplace can be just what is needed for people to feel connected and seen. Bob'nJoyce put forward practical steps that leaders can take to promote true connection and camaraderie between employees. These actions, when done well are a win – win – win: * Productivity improves. * Worker engagement is enhanced. * And employees feel less alone and hopeless. Come on in. Grab a healthy holiday snack. Welcome!

In this episode, Bob'nJoyce rift on the recent trend of abandoning DEI programs in organizations and institutions. Companies that once were the champions of making all voices heard and valued, are tiptoeing, and in some instances, running away from their diversity initiatives. Spoiler alert – we think this is ill-advised and harmful. There are many reasons for DEI's demise - a prevailing scarcity mentality (I got mine, go get yours), and the far-right political tsunami to name a few. We believe smart organizations are bucking this trend and are continuing DEI work for the very reason they began them - the business case demands a high performing organization. Call it by another name if you must, but leaders, HR, and OD must carry this work forward. Come on In. Grab a snack/ Welcome!

In this episode, Bob'nJoyce discussed the power of guided dialogue for jumpstarting a team. This is a non-linear approach where new or struggling teams get together and use the power of dialogue to open up new possibilities and build trust. In HR/OD, some of our most important work involves getting teams and organizations unstuck. This inquiry methodology, in our experience, works better than most other interventions. We resisted calling this a retreat (Breaking from day-to-day) as the work is a high intensity development experience for participants. The outcome is an accelerated getting clear about the who (we are), the where (we are going), and the why (it matters). Here are a couple of rules that makes this approach work : * No Selling, No Telling. * Taking the 60 second pause * When asking a question, people can say not now. * Declaring I want…. We need… * No notetakers or recording Come on in. Grab a snack. Welcome!

In this episode, Bob'nJoyce muse about the paradox of being 'all in.' With the world in disarray, many consider withdrawing and checking out but more often than not end up choosing engagement and purpose. So what is going on here? Being all in requires discipline and commitment to weather the tough patches. There is an expression that most of us start with the best of intentions and then life gets in the way. Well Joyce and I have been thrown a lot of life's curveballs and we are still ‘all in' on doing this work together. Join us to find out why we think this is so. Come on in. Grab a Snack. Welcome!

In this episode, Bob'nJoyce muse on the X factor in why some leaders excel and thrive. The context is today's podcast was recorded on November 5th, America's election day and a new leader will be chosen. By the time you read this, we all will know the results and hopefully, what we shared will make sense of why either Trump or Harris won. My bet is that the winner possessed many of the attributes of this X Factor. The bottom line is that while literally tens of thousands of leadership models have been written (We've created some of our own), what it often comes down to are a couple of the attributes you will hear today. So, Come on in. Grab a snack. Welcome.

In this Episode, exactly one week before the U.S. elections, Bob'nJoyce take on the timely topic of getting unstuck when uncertainty and anxiety run rampant. As a country, we are trying to figure out how to move forward post-election despite half of the country being disappointed and angry. The same is true when a business is suddenly disrupted and what worked before no longer does. Bob'nJoyce lean into their experience and share lessons about ways to get organizations and its people unstuck and moving forward. Come joins us in this doozy (Joyce's word) of a topic and join us in taking a much-needed respite from political ads. Come on in. Grab a snack. Welcome!

In this episode, Joyce shares the characteristics and unique qualities of high performing CEOs she has worked with over her career. Again, Joyce reaches into her treasure chest of written reflections and makes them available to you, our valued listeners. Her observations are anything but your typical list of traits or rigid leadership models. What she shares may surprise you. In Episode #165, Joyce shared a list of CEO flaws and flubs so it is only fair that we balance that with this episode. It is important to remember that all CEOs have flaws and signature strengths. This “perfect imperfection” is what makes a CEO both fully human and a leader worth following. There is a lot of really good ‘stuff' packed in today's conversation. Come on in. Grab a snack. Welcome!

In this episode, Bob'nJoyce interview Corey Spitzer - serial entrepreneur, IT expert, start-up guru, and business change agent. Corey is a fractional CTO who helps clients solve the thorniest of product development and business growth challenges. He describes himself as an interpreter of sorts helping tech and business development people communicate and collaborate better. Corey brings a wealth of experience and stories to help start-up execs get the most from their IT development teams. He is passionate about making a difference in the organizations and people he serves. We all know someone who loves riding on bumpy roads and solving hairy dilemmas. Corey is one of those people. And no, despite describing his work like making sausage, he has never actually done it as best we know. Come on in. Grab a snack. Welcome!

In this episode, Bob'nJoyce discuss how a network of auto repair tradespeople loosely organize as entrepreneurs to provide value and quality. There are a lot of ideas and lessons to be gleaned from this entrepreneurial innovation - think outsourcing done where everyone, especially the customer, wins. What can the rest of us learn from their example about org structure and how, when, and where work gets done? In previous episodes, we discussed how org structures and traditional work arrangements are being replaced by innovative, flexible and, at times, counterintuitive approaches. We invite you to get curious about how your company can adapt using this innovative outsource model. Come on In. Grab a snack. Welcome!

In this episode, Bob'nJoyce discuss ways to unleash our best thinking when feeling stuck. We share concrete ideas to go from linear to lateral thinking that gets the creative juices following. In a world where dull thinking is way too common, these simple but effective ideas promote creativity and new thinking. You will get: * Meeting check-ins that get a group revved up and ready. * How to use synectics - a creative problem-solving that combines seemingly unrelated things. * An idea generator exercise that offers a lot of choices. * An exercise that gets every voice heard. This episode combines rigorous thinking with fun to bring out the best in our thinking. Come on in. Grab a snack. Welcome!

In this episode, Bob'nJoyce discuss CEO flaws and flubs they observed while working with them. CEO's are human and therefore imperfect. The good news is that those we worked with possessed strengths that offset their shortcomings. Come listen and assess which flaws you may have. Some of the flaws they observed include: Failure to stay disciplined about messaging what matters most again and again.. Being susceptible to flattery and praise that impacts judgment. Failure to hold in check the privilege and entitlement of power. Not staying in touch with the grit of the business. Being too protective and not demanding enough We grimaced a lot at our own flaws and suspect you will too so buckle up. So come on in. Grab a snack. Welcome!

In this episode, Bob'nJoyce address the challenge of moving from personal or organizational lethargy to vitality. Good leaders can sense the pulse of an organization and find ways to move the needle on the cultural vibe. So the question becomes how do you engage employees in order to make the shift? Here are a couple of areas we mused on: Responding to, ‘Well, it is what it is.' Combating the malaise of boredom at work. The importance of leaning into the discomfort through dialogue (versus measuring it through stay surveys). The power of putting a name on what's happening. Joyce and Bob get feisty and gritty about what they believe is an oft ignored but important aspect of a healthy organization. Come on in. Grab a snack. Welcome!

In this episode, Bob'nJoyce muse on the merits and limitations of setting goals. Goal setting can both energize and move you to action but can also discourage and demotivate. It begs the question as to how you accomplish the former and avoid the latter. This topic is timely given the 2024 Paris Olympics and the stories athletes share about how they became the best in the world. The recurring theme is the power of goal setting that propelled them to become the best. The conundrum is to tap into that kind of goal setting and avoid that which distracts and bores. Some take-a-ways include: * Good goal moves you past your fear. * Goal setting creates purpose and a path towards the next and that is a good thing. * The power of collaboration and ownership when setting goals. * Jettison goals that don't inspire. This is a courageous act and not failing. * The danger of goals handed down from above. So come on in. Grab a snack. Welcome!

In this episode, Bob'nJoyce, go through a recent post where the author describes leadership attributes that makes a person worth following. While there are many leadership models, this one focuses on affinity, the ability to connect with others based on mutual respect and trust. The behaviors and attributes described in today's podcast serves as a guide to assess how we are doing. Come listen to learn where you are nailing it and where you just might see an opportunity to be a better leader. Come on in. Grab a snack. Welcome!

In this episode, Bob'nJoyce rift on the importance of an organization's culture being seen and understood. Our definition of culture is the way that a group solves problems, make decisions, and gets the work done. When these norms or assumptions no longer work, making your culture tangible and seen, is the first step to cultural change. To do this, we share ideas on how you can lead a conversation to make the unseen seen by having groups discuss these dimensions on a continuum of how things happen around here: Conflict – Direct and blunt or indirect and polite Tolerance for ambiguity – order and completeness or raggedy and chaotic Awareness of time – Fixed or fluid Emotions – expressive or controlled Perspective on the business – data/finance or intuition/art Freedom – Hierarchical or egalitarian Dress – Formal or informal Communication – Explicit and direct or implicit and indirect Great stuff here so… Come on in. Grab a snack. Welcome!

In this episode, Bob'nJoyce share a list of OD values created by a team Joyce worked with several years ago. The list resonated with them but what matters more is if they ring true to you. These values are not exclusive to OD practitioners and apply to all of us who lead and we all lead at something. You probably won't find these values on the ODN website or in an academic leadership article. This list is borne out of hard work, determination, and yes, screwing up. Our hope is after listening, you take a moment to reflect on the values important to doing your best work. Here are a few of ours: Embrace humor. Don't take yourself too seriously and know when you are up on your high horse. Reside on the boundary. Know when you are kissing ass and betraying your work. Shrug when you screw up. Come on in. Grab a snack. Welcome!

In this episode, Bob'nJoyce discuss the importance of HR/OD abandoning worn out approaches and rules that no longer cut it. In fact, past practices too often stifle creativity and employee engagement. The role of OD is to “supersize” the capacity and potential of their workforce. Sounds too idealistic and soft? We think not. Taking this on demands courage and patience. Warning: We get irritated and a wee bit sarcastic in today's podcast. Despite this… Come on in. Grab a snack. Welcome!

In this episode, Bob'nJoyce speak out about stuff that irritates the heck out of them. Leaders too often fail to treat employees respectfully, especially at times that matter most. It is almost as if common sense and decency go out the window. Here is some of the stuff that irritates them: The arrogance of viewing employees as problems to be solved versus as the solution Letting people go without respect and compassion Those who manage and manipulate and call it leading Managers who ‘do to' versus ‘doing with' employees Get ready to get irritated!

In this episode, our guest, Andrea Derler, shares how people analytics empowers HR and leaders to align HR strategy with business goals like never before. Organizations are increasing under greater pressure to increase employee engagement and performance outcomes. Join us today to learn how people analytics can unlock the untapped value of your employees. Come on in. Grab a snack. Welcome _About Dr. Andrea Derler Andrea Derler, has been leading research projects in the HR field in both U.S. and European companies for over 10 years and has been with Visier, a Canadian software company and a leader in the People Analytics domain, since 2021. In this interview, she will provide a practical introduction to the discipline of People Analytics, share the hottest HR trends of 2024, and offer insights into current case examples from the HR and people analytics practice. _

In this episode, Bob'nJoyce share thought-provoking question for leaders and HR/OD practitioners. Some questions come from Gallup consulting, and the rest from Joyce's own writings. Asking a powerful question is a valuable tool for providing insights, shifting perspectives (in a good way), and revealing blind spots. They can also irritate the dickens out of you. Come join us as we rift on each and provide our thoughts on where and when to use them. We blend humor, a bit of sarcasm, and brilliant insights that will make you both smile and grimace. Spoiler Alert!!!! Here is the list of Joyce's touchstone Leadership Questions: — Would you do the same job for half the salary? — Do you have something preposterously important you want to get done? — Do you think about ‘better' or ‘different'? — Do you look forward to developing, thinking with, being demanding of, infusing with enthusiasm, your direct reports? — Does the idea of contact with the core of your business excite you or bore you? —Do you take reality into serious consideration but not bow to it? —When people see you coming, do they want to do good work and after you leave, do they want to do their best work? — Do you often realize that you owe your privileged role to every person in your company and does it make you determined to make them proud of you? Some of these I know grabed your attention and interest so... Come on in. Grab a snack. Welcome!

In this episode, Bob'nJoyce rift on the merits and relevance of creating self-organizing communities. Whether it be in the fabric of an organization's culture or a one-time intervention, taking a decentralized approach for problem solving, co-creation, and vitality works. In this episode we asks as many questions as we answers so buckle up because we need you on this topic. We touch on: How self-organizing unleashes tapped down energy and promotes engagement. The importance of trust that communities will get it right Working through the panic that this might just not work How to embrace a decentralized approach in a hierarchical, top-down organization. Come on in. Grab a snack. Welcome!

In this episode, Bob'nJoyce delve into the practice of setting norms of behavior for meetings. Norm setting is a game changer for effective engagement but too often doesn't work. We provide tips and ideas on how to establish norms that work. Why is this an important topic? • Many meetings are waste of time and talent. • Meetings done well are where real work gets done. • Norms are a powerful intervention to promote a productive culture. Come on in. Grab a snack. Welcome!

In this episode, Bob'nJoyce sit down with Terry Morgan, an accomplished executive known for his change leadership as a CEO, CIO, interim executive, and technology consultant. Terry has led large scale transformations at companies including Food Lion, Delhaize, and Lowe's Home Improvement. Terry shares insights for navigating significant change with a thoughtful approach resulting in successful, high impact outcomes. Some of those insights include: • Ways to address resistance to change • Why taking risk is necessary and the importance of mitigating it • The flywheel of things to consider when leading big change • The importance of getting stakeholder involved in the change process This episode is packed with good stuff so……Come on in. Grab a snack. Welcome! About Terry Morgan Principal, Morgan Advisory Services, LLC. Mr. Terry Morgan is a seasoned senior executive with deep and diverse experience in industry and consulting. He retired as the CEO of Macro Integration Services, Inc. and has been the sole principal of Morgan Advisory Services, LLC (www.morganadv.com) since 2010. He has over 40 years of industry and consulting experience in strategic planning, technology, retail services, business process improvement, cost optimization, and general management. After his grocery career as the Global CIO of Delhaize Group, he served interim executive roles via Morgan Advisory Services at Extended Stay America (Interim CIO), Belk (Interim CTO), AMTdirect (Consultant and Board Member), Delhaize America (Interim CTO, Interim Office of the CIO), Lowe's (Interim CIO, Interim CISO, and Interim SVP of Technology – Canada). In most cases, he hired the permanent replacement as well as ran the function. Mr. Morgan has served in a volunteer mentoring capacity with Rowan County Times Two Mentoring and Queens College. He has his MBA from the Fuqua School of Business with an emphasis in Finance, his BS from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill with a major Business Administration and Accounting and is a Certified Management Accountant.

In this episode, Bob'nJoyce share 12 principles or truths about organizational change. This list is based on the work of Margaret Wheatley, author, leadership guru, and management consultant. We time-test these truths using our experiences and invite you to do the same. Here is sample of some: 1. Whatever the problem, community is the answer. 2. Diversity is a blessing, not a problem. 3. A leader is anyone willing to engage. 4. People support what they create. 5. Change happens through emergence, not by any other process. Come on in. Grab a snack. Welcome!

In this episode, Bob'nJoyce meet with Jon Rennie, author, podcaster, and business executive, who shares his unique perspective on what it means to be a good leader . Jon is a former U.S Navy Nuclear Submarine Officer with seven deployments during the Cold War. Today, Jon is President and CEO of Peak Demands, a premier manufacturer of critical components for electrical companies. Jon also hosts his own podcast, Deep Leadership, where he shares lessons gleaned from his thirty years of military and civilian leadership. Jon is also the author of three books on leadership. Whether you are a new or seasoned leader, this podcast is jam-packed full of insights and ideas to take you to the next level. Come on in. Grab a snack. Welcome!

In this 150th episode, Bob'nJoyce riff on the conditions necessary for an organization to avert decline and irrelevance. All companies, at some point, confront internal and external forces that put their success at risk. Today we lean into Jim Collins's work on the disciplines required to ‘right the ship' and get back on track. These ideas are so practical and basic that they are often overlooked when seeking the grandiose silver bullet. Even if your organization is performing well, this topic is as relevant to keep the success on track. So come on in. Grab a snack. Welcome.

In this episode, Bob'nJoyce take on the merits of taking risk in life and work. The problem is that most of us are risk adverse and prefer to play it safe. Our risk-taking premise is that saying yes and getting out on the skinny branches leads to a life filled with possibility and breakthroughs. If true, how does a leader cultivate a company culture that embrace taking risk and yes, making mistakes. Come on in. Grab a snack. Welcome!

In this episodes, Bob'nJoyce explore the dynamic of how a big challenge can bring out our best and accelerate people development. Joyce interviews Bob about his going south (North Carolina) from Maine to help create a division of stores in a new market. Taking on work with unknowns and challenges, expected and unexpected, is both terrifying and thrilling. In this episode, we share interventions and processes that both worked and did not. The lessons are relevant today as organizations and individuals take on challenges in an unpredictable world. Welcome to our island of sanity. Come on in and grab a snack!

In today's episodes, Bob'nJoyce get real about why they are committed to doing this podcast. They share their ‘Why' to give context to the topics they choose and their unique perspectives on everything HR/OD. As a regular listener, it is important that you know where the passion for this work comes from. Today, more than ever, OD is an island of sanity in a world in profound disarray. Spending time every week tuning in to Bob'nJoyce is hopefully your island of sanity as you go about making your organization, and the world better. Come on in. Grab a snack. Welcome!

In this episode, Bob'nJoyce riffs on pervasive workplace exhaustion and what to do about it. The pressure on organizations for high performance has never been greater despite workers being less engaged and motivated. Bob'nJoyce provide 25 practical ideas that gets us moving and out of the doldrums. A couple of them include: • Eating a meal with people that energize you. • Time out lounges and quiet zones. • Slowing down when you feel the need to speed up. • Eliminating work that doesn't matter. And, of course, listening to Bob'nJoyce podcast every week! Come on in. Grab a snack. Welcome!