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So much has been written about psychological safety. This is a different angle—practical, tool-driven, and building toward something new.Amy Edmondson gave us the concept. Timothy Clark made it practical with four stages. Bernhard walks through all four—and the tools to actually build them—before introducing his own fifth stage next week.STAGE 1 — INCLUSION SAFETYDo people feel they belong? It sounds trivial. It isn't."At a football match, they separate the fans into zones—because there is no inclusion safety. In leadership trainings, I look at the shoes. Fifty percent wear white sneakers. There's the white sneakers club."Inclusion shows up in signs, clothing, and above all language. Bernhard describes a dinner where a comment meant to support a female colleague backfired—because it framed her as "female versus us" rather than simply one of the team.STAGE 2 — LEARNER SAFETYCan people admit they don't understand?"I teach at universities, and regularly I find out by accident that people didn't understand the concept—because they didn't dare ask."In high-charged groups—senior executives, consultants—nobody admits confusion. The leader's job: build a feedback loop so you know whether people actually learned, and make asking a question feel essential rather than embarrassing.STAGE 3 — CONTRIBUTOR SAFETYCan people contribute—and are they actually heard?"From hundreds of coaching sessions: women in male-dominated teams are normally not listened to. The strangest thing? Their feedback says 'you should contribute more.' But they do. Nobody listens."Two tools:First, before discussion, give everyone two minutes to think. The fast talkers drown out the careful thinkers otherwise. Set a timer, then go around the table—and as leader, speak last. (John Katzenbach's wisdom of teams: the moment you speak, everyone aligns to you.)Second, after the first round, each person must build on the previous person's idea—not add their own. It forces real listening and takes the conversation deeper.STAGE 4 — CHALLENGER SAFETYCan people challenge you—and you not take it personally?"When senior executives say 'I welcome the challenge'—boy, they don't. Challenger safety is one of the hardest levels to reach, because so many of us take a challenge personally."The tool: propose an idea, then go around the table—everyone must challenge it. No exceptions, even if you love it.For bigger groups, an adapted Disney method: split into visionaries, realists, and pessimists. Each subgroup challenges every idea from their assigned role, regardless of what they personally think. Then rotate. The role gives people permission to challenge—and the idea gets dramatically better.THE THROUGH-LINE:"We can't take the four stages for granted. We need tools to build and grow them. Use them—don't assume they're already there."NEXT WEEK — THE FIFTH STAGE:"I'll take this a step further to the fifth stage—a concept I came up with over the last couple of weeks."REFERENCES:Edmondson, A. The Fearless Organization.Clark, T. R. The 4 Stages of Psychological Safety.Katzenbach, J. & Smith, D. The Wisdom of Teams.LINKS: bernhardkerres.com | roleplays.ai#PsychologicalSafety #Leadership #Teams #Coaching #Edmondson
Why do so many quality programs fall apart the moment the firefighter walks out the door? My guest for this episode of the Lean Blog Interviews Podcast is Chad Diggs, a quality management professional, consultant, author, and founder of DIQ (Digging Into Quality), an AI-powered quality platform built for mid-market manufacturers. Chad leads a team of quality engineers supporting first article inspection reviews for customers including Boeing, Collins Aerospace, and Honeywell. Chad recently released his book, Below the Surface: Building Quality Systems, Not Heroes -- a practitioner's guide written as a story rather than a textbook. The narrative follows a quality manager named Christina Valles through pressures most quality leaders will recognize: shipping bad parts to hit a date, getting blamed for problems built into the system, and watching the same fires get fought again the next month. We talk about why Chad chose a narrative format, the cost-of-poor-quality math that finally gets leadership's attention in the story (the number was 25 percent of revenue), and the difference between investigating where a defect happened and investigating who to blame for it. Toward the end of the conversation, I share Isao Yoshino's story from his early Toyota days -- the one where management apologized to him after he put the wrong solvent in the paint line. It is a useful contrast to how most companies still respond to that kind of mistake. Topics covered: Chad's path from a warehouse role to a 20-year quality career The opening scene of the book: a contaminated solvent and a VP who says, "12 percent failures? I can live with that." Leaders who walk the floor productively, and leaders who walk the floor and create chaos Why "cost of poor quality" is such an underused argument inside companies What a blameless investigation actually looks like Psychological safety and Amy Edmondson's work on The Fearless Organization Why firefighting feels like a badge of honor and why that is a problem Real succession planning for quality leaders DIQ, the platform Chad is building for mid-market manufacturers Get the book and learn more at https://digin2quality.com Read the full show notes and transcript at https://leanblog.org/544 The podcast is brought to you by Stiles Associates, the premier executive search firm specializing in the placement of Lean Transformation executives. Learn more at https://leanexecs.com/podcast This podcast is part of the #LeanCommunicators network.
In this episode, Ruth unpacks the subtle dynamics that emerge when highly capable people in organizations become hesitant to speak up in team settings. Drawing from a recent experience observing a leadership team, Ruth explores why discussions become constrained and what really underlies this common organizational challenge.Key Topics DiscussedThe Phenomenon: Smart, experienced team members hold back or edit themselves, especially during big decisions (01:15).Common Misunderstandings: It's easy to assume the issue is about confidence or personality clashes, but often it's about perceived risk (03:05).Psychological Safety: Ruth explains Amy Edmondson's definition—a team's shared belief that interpersonal risk-taking is safe—and connects this to why speaking up feels risky (03:22).Consequences: When risk feels too high, people disengage or soften/remove contributions, leading to reduced challenge, untested decisions, and low alignment (04:24). Decisions can appear unified on the surface but unravel outside the meeting room (05:49).Wider Impact: The effects extend beyond the immediate team, impacting others reliant on the team's decisions (06:28).Questions for Reflection:What conversations are we currently avoiding?What makes these conversations feel risky?TakeawaysSilence or softened opinions in meetings usually indicate risk calculation, not necessarily agreement.The absence of candid dialogue reduces decision quality and can undermine trust and execution.Building psychological safety is essential for robust, high-quality decisions and organizational success.Listen to this episode for a reflective and practical guide to unlocking better conversations and decisions in your team.Connect with Ruth:Instagram LinkedIn Website
In this episode, Dave Closson sits down with Angie Asa‑Lovstad (Asa Facilitation) for a timely conversation about what it takes to lead through uncertainty and forced change in prevention and behavioral health.They unpack a simple but powerful Change Formula (dissatisfaction with the status quo → vision → first steps) and connect it to tools many prevention leaders already use—like the Accountability Ladder, community readiness, and psychological safety—to help teams move from stuck to forward motion.If your coalition or prevention team is feeling the weight of shifting funding, burnout, and “the rug getting pulled out,” this one is an encouraging, practical reset.Key takeaways (quick hit)If any part of the change formula is zero, resistance stays high. Diagnose where the “zero” is.Vision without first steps feels inspiring—but also overwhelming.First steps without vision feels busy—but not meaningful.Data + story can help communities move from denial → vague awareness → readiness.Psychological safety isn't optional during uncertainty—leaders have to model vulnerability first.Different people process change differently (talking it out vs. quiet processing). Build space for both.Practical tools mentionedChange Formula (dissatisfaction + vision + first steps)Accountability Ladder (victim mindset → ownership/can-do)Community readiness (e.g., denial / vague awareness as common starting points)Psychological safety (Amy Edmondson; Brene Brown referenced)About Angie: Angie Asa‑Lovstad brings 25+ years of prevention experience—from leading a local coalition to running a statewide coalition (AC4C) to founding Asa Facilitation. Angie specializes in facilitation as “the secret sauce” for community-level change and helps groups connect, spark, and ignite progress—especially when things feel stuck.Connect with AngieWebsite: https://asafacilitation.comResources: Look for Angie's free downloads under the “Resources” section of the site.Prevention is better together: if this episode helped you, subscribe to the Prevention Leaders Podcast and share it with one colleague who's leading through change right now.
In this episode of "Frustrated and Exhausted," Ruth returns after a brief pause to reflect on what's really at the root of burnout, frustration, and stagnation—especially for women in leadership. Rather than focusing solely on personal development, Ruth explores how broader organizational systems and workplace conditions profoundly shape individual experience and behavior.Key TopicsEvolution of the Podcast's FocusInitially centered on women in leadership and gender issues.Now broadening to explore systemic challenges and workplace dynamics 00:53.Common Workplace ChallengesUnclear priorities, unstable decisions, ineffective meetings.Dysfunctional team dynamics and relationships.Leaders at all levels holding back, unsure, or unable to fully contribute 01:10.The Real Roots of StruggleMany assume the issue is personal—lack of resilience, skills, or confidence.Ruth argues the problem is often in the systems and conditions around people, not the individuals themselves 02:21.Supporting ResearchReferences to Amy Edmondson's work on psychological safety.Mentions Chris Argyris' research on organizational learning 03:42.A New DirectionThe podcast will shift to focus on system-level issues—invisible conditions that make leadership harder or easier 04:16.Recognizing organizations usually have “conditions problems,” not “people problems” 04:43.TakeawaysStop blaming yourself for systemic barriers.Look at the environment and conditions shaping work, not just individual capabilities.Systemic change can reduce personal guilt and shame, freeing individuals to thrive 05:07.Join Ruth next week as the podcast continues to unpack the subtle, systemic factors shaping your work and leadership experience.Connect with Ruth:Instagram LinkedIn Website
Why do (senior) executives so rarely hear what they need to improve? I explore this critical leadership blind spot, inspired by a recent article in Fast Company by Dr. Tomas Chamorro-Premuzic and global thought leader on psychological safety, Amy Edmondson. Relying on thought-provoking research amplified by real-world case examples, this episode exposes the invisible barriers that often keep leaders in the dark and offers a toolkit for reversing the trend.From the dangers of hierarchical silence to the psychology of honest feedback, I review practical strategies we can all use including asking focused questions, acknowledging our own blind spots, and separating our immediate reactions from thoughtful reflection. The importance of acting on feedback, no matter how small, is a simple, yet frequently overlooked opportunity. I also share the powerful example of Alan Mulally, one of the most celebrated and respected CEOs of all-time, to highlight how we can transform our cultures from focusing on fear to unleashing our individual and collective potential.For leaders who are hungry to boost their impact and foster psychological safety, this episode is full of actionable advice on creating an environment where candor thrives and teams and leaders at every level can truly grow.What You'll Learn- The benefits of feedback.- What is feedback?- Ask for specifics, not generalities - The power of specific questions. - Reward courage – It's scary to offer someone feedback.- Act on feedback and communicate your changes.Podcast Timestamps00:00 Welcome and Episode Introduction01:37 Today's Topic: The Feedback Gap for Senior Leaders04:04 What Feedback Really Is: The Zenger Folkman Definition05:47 Why Senior Leaders Struggle to Receive Honest Feedback08:11 Strategy 1: Ask for Disconfirming Data, Not General Impressions10:31 Asking Specific, Targeted Feedback Questions12:40 Strategy 2: Separate Ingestion from Reaction14:57 Strategy 3: Focus on Patterns, Not One Data Point17:18 Strategy 4: Act on One Small Piece of Feedback First19:40 The Alan Mulally and Ford Turnaround Story22:01 Red Lights Are Gems: Closing Thoughts KEYWORDSPositive Leadership, Feedback, Psychological Safety, Amy Edmondson, 360 feedback, Self-Awareness, Hierarchy, Power Differential, Leadership Development, Constructive Feedback, Actionable Feedback, Behavioral Change, Barriers to Feedback, Receiving Feedback, Accountability, Alan Mulally, Ford Turnaround, Transparent Leadership, CEO SuccessSource: Why senior leaders get less feedback—and how to change that - Fast Company
Welcome to Part 2 of our conversation with Glenn Cohen, former head of psychology for the Mossad. In Part 1, we explored how resilience is built and how to prepare yourself before the pressure hits. Today, we take it further. Building resilience is one thing. But most leaders struggle to make clear, effective decisions when everything is on the line, and they're facing uncertainty, risk, and real consequences. In this episode, Glen explains how elite performers think and act under pressure, how they navigate uncertainty when there are no clear answers, and what you, as a business owner or leader, need to do differently when the stakes are high. Post-Traumatic Growth Trauma does not have to lead to PTSD. Around 70% of people will encounter a traumatic event, but only about 10–15% develop PTSD. Trauma can shake core beliefs or involve extreme threat, but it can also be an opportunity for growth. Knowing this creates strength and shifts expectations. Resilience vs Growth Resilience is the ability to bounce back. Growth is the ability to bounce forward. Rather than simply recovering from a traumatic event and returning to their previous level of functioning, people can develop new meaning, discover capabilities they did not know they had, and build a stronger sense of self. Real transformation happens when you shift from simply recovering to actually growing. Coping Even in extreme situations like captivity, people demonstrate an inherent ability to cope. Some individuals can survive severe physical and psychological trauma and still move forward. Many prove to themselves that they are capable of far more than they imagined, reinforcing a new sense of strength and resilience. Meaning A clear sense of meaning keeps you moving forward, even when everything else is gone. As Viktor Frankl describes in Man's Search for Meaning, those who hold onto a strong why, or something bigger than themselves, are far more able to endure extreme hardship. That sense of purpose does not remove the suffering, but it gives it direction, and, in many cases, that direction becomes more powerful than the physical conditions themselves. Small Wins Small actions build psychological stability and help individuals function under extreme pressure. Finding small wins in uncontrollable situations restores a sense of control. When business leaders track time, create routines, or follow daily patterns, it anchors their identity and reduces chaos. Belief Is the Foundation Belief in oneself, in others, and in something greater is the most important coping mechanism. It drives action, endurance, and recovery. When belief is strong, other capabilities follow. The Stockdale Paradox Balancing realism with hope is essential. Facing brutal facts while maintaining belief in a positive outcome prevents disillusionment. Leaders must avoid unexamined optimism and instead operate with grounded confidence and openness to uncertainty. EQ Over IQ in Leadership Emotional intelligence consistently outweighs IQ in leadership and performance. High EQ enables connection, trust, and motivation. Leaders who rely only on logic and data tend to create disengaged teams, while those who lead with EQ generate commitment and energy. Togetherness and Trust Build togetherness on trust and psychological safety, a concept popularized by Amy Edmondson. Teams perform best when individuals can show vulnerability, admit mistakes, and rely on each other. That level of trust unlocks creativity, collaboration, and resilience. Facing Reality Life includes joy and suffering at the same time. Accepting this duality prepares individuals to handle adversity without becoming destabilized, allowing them to move forward without denial or false expectations. Collective Strength and Resilience Amplify strength through unity. Facing adversity together builds resilience at both the individual and collective levels. Shared belief and connection enable not just survival, but the ability to continue and thrive. BIO: Glenn Cohen Hostage Debrief team leader and former Mossad Chief Psychologist. Born and raised in NYC, he moved to Israel after high school and served for over 30 years as an air force pilot, Mossad officer, special forces psychologist, and IDF hostage negotiator. Since retiring with the equivalent rank of Colonel, Glenn has trained top business and military brass in the five "E.L.I.T.E." keys to resilience and peak performance, which he pioneered during his tenure at Mossad. Glenn Cohen immigrated to Israel from the United States and, as a college basketball player, gave up a scholarship to enlist in the IDF during the 1982 Lebanon War. Against all odds, he fulfilled his dream, and despite a 90% attrition rate, he graduated from the prestigious Israel Air Force Academy and earned his wings as a pilot. After serving for 7 years as a helicopter pilot in the Lebanon war zone, Glenn was recruited into the Mossad and served for over 25 years in various positions, reaching the equivalent rank of colonel as Chief psychologist. In this capacity, he was responsible for selecting and training the elite operatives to believe that there is no such thing as an impossible mission. Glenn accompanied and advised commanders from the cutting-edge units of the defense establishment – Mossad, Shin Bet, "Yamam" SWAT teams in all matters related to resilience and peak performance under extreme conditions. Based on thousands of hours of mentoring combatants and commanders from the most elite units of the defense establishment, Glenn developed the ELITE method for leadership and team building. Since he retired from the Mossad in 2015, Glenn has shared the ELITE method, mentoring and training CEOs and their teams from leading organizations around the world, enabling them to reach their full potential and execute like an ELITE team. Since October 7th, Glenn served for over five months in emergency reserve duty in the IDF Hostage Negotiation Unit, where he was designated to be the first mental health professional to meet the released hostages upon their return to Israel. Subsequently, he wrote the protocol for recovering the returned hostages and led a team of psychologists who debriefed the 168 hostages upon their release. Connect with Eric Rozenberg On LinkedIn Facebook Instagram Website Listen to The Business of Meetings podcast Subscribe to The Business of Meetings newsletter Connect with Glenn Cohen On his website LinkedIn
Harvard professor Amy Edmondson breaks down the three types of failure—intelligent, basic, and complex—and why most of us never learn from them. She explores why kids lose their natural curiosity about failure as they grow up, how to design experiments that generate useful failures, and the systems thinking required to prevent cascading disasters. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Dr. Adam Dorsay, Silicon Valley psychologist and host of the SuperPsyched podcast, reflects on reaching episode 300 and how the show began during COVID when he suddenly had extra time. He explains that “SuperPsyched” is about being deeply connected to one's psyche, not toxic positivity, and shares that he books guests largely by simply asking, citing the Franklin Effect. He highlights the show's wide-ranging catalog—from athletes, musicians, and Nobel laureate Robert Lefkowitz to a Holocaust survivor, an undertaker, a cat psychologist, and Daryl Davis—along with milestone episodes featuring his father (episode 150) and mother (episode 300). Key takeaways include intimacy as “vulnerability well met” (Dr. James Cordova), the importance of psychological safety (Dr. Amy Edmondson), and evidence-backed self-compassion (Chris Germer), plus research suggesting luck increases with the number of people you meet.00:00 Welcome to SuperPsyched00:29 Episode 300 milestone00:38 Starting during COVID01:32 Meaning of SuperPsyched02:53 Asking for guests03:26 Franklin Effect explained04:36 Favorite guests and range06:59 Standout episodes and heroes10:32 Top downloads and animal minds11:12 Three key gleanings14:18 Miracle question themes15:17 Active luck through people16:00 Thanks and subscribe
Last year, we recorded an episode on whether "self-directed learning" is a myth. In this week's episode of The Mindtools L&D Podcast, we ask how we can create an environment where this behavior thrives. Ross G and Cammy are joined by Stella Collins to discuss: What needs to be in place for self-directed learning to flourish? How can L&D pros create this ecosystem? What are the biggest barriers to self-directed learning? During the discussion, we mentioned action learning sets. We also referenced our 'Building Better Managers' report, Amy Edmondson's book The Kind of Wrong, and the CRAFT framework. Stella's books are: Neuroscience for Learning and Development: How to apply neuroscience and psychology for improved learning and training The Learning Organisation: Using self-directed learning to drive workforce engagement and performance Stella also discussed the book Entangled Life: How Fungi Make Our Worlds, Change Our Minds and Shape Our Futures, by Merlin Sheldrake. In 'What I Learned This Week', Ross discussed the current trend for placing bets on world events. For more from Stella, see stellacollins.com. For more from Mindtools Kineo, visit mindtools.com or kineo.com. There, you'll also find details of our Learning Management Systems, Content Hub for leaders and managers, and custom learning design service - including AI skills development! You can also email us at custom@mindtools.com. Like the show? You'll LOVE our newsletter! Subscribe to The L&D Dispatch at lddispatch.com Connect with our speakers If you'd like to share your thoughts on this episode, connect with us on LinkedIn: Ross Garner Cammy Bean Stella Collins
Stop burning time and money on agile theater! In this podcast, Product Manager Brian Orlando and Enterprise Business Agility Consultant Om Patel strip business agility back to its absolute basics: no buzzwords, no frameworks - just the organizational muscles you need to survive. Listen or watch as we introduce and explain the five non-negotiable capabilities: Sensing and Responding (market feedback loops), Speed to Decision Making (decision velocity), Structural Flexibility (reorganizing without chaos), Distributed Authority (decentralizing command and control), and Learning Orientation (continuous evolution).Then stick around as we tear down the agile industrial complex, discuss why one study claims 47% of companies are operating purely under an "illusion" of agility, and discuss how the introduction of AI can amplify and exposes company's bureaucracy.Other topics we discuss are:• How to explain business agility to anyone from CEO to new hire• Why "scaling" agility is a big lie sold to enterprises• Typical bottlenecks to the five core capabilities• Why vanity metrics sabotage competitive advantages• Time to market, cost of delay, customer adoption, and much more...Whether you're in product management, leadership, agile coaching, or team development, this episode helps you truly understand business agility and can give you the confidence to push back or ask critical questions when teams and leadership claim they don't need help.#BusinessAgility #ProductManagement #AgileLeadership["Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin", "Team Topologies by Matthew Skelton and Manuel Pais", "Turn the Ship Around by L David Marquet", "The Fearless Organization by Amy Edmondson", "The Lean Startup by Eric Ries", "BCG Study: Why Companies Get Agile Right and Wrong (2024)", "Business Agility Institute 2025 Report", "Organizational Agility: Ill-defined and Somewhat Confusing by Anna Teresa Walter (2020)", "John Boyd's OODA Loop", "Jeff Bezos's One-Way Door vs Two-Way Door Decisions", "Block (Jack Dorsey)", "Arguing Agile Episode 83: Agile Doesn't Work Here"]LINKSYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@arguingagileSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/362QvYORmtZRKAeTAE57v3Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/agile-podcast/id1568557596INTRO MUSICToronto Is My BeatBy Whitewolf (Source: https://ccmixter.org/files/whitewolf225/60181)CC BY 4.0 DEED (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0/deed.en)
Renegade Thinkers Unite: #2 Podcast for CMOs & B2B Marketers
Too many companies treat every failure the same. That makes people more cautious, more guarded, and less willing to take the smart risks innovation requires. Amy Edmondson argues that not all failures deserve the same label. Some are preventable. Some come with complexity. Then there is intelligent failure, the kind that comes with thoughtful experimentation in new territory and produces the learning that moves innovation forward. In this episode, Drew Neisser brings in Harvard Business School professor Amy Edmondson, author of Right Kind of Wrong, to look at what leaders need to do if they want teams experimenting and learning in unfamiliar territory. For Amy, that starts with a clear goal, a bet no bigger than necessary, and the kind of questions that create enough psychological safety for people to share what they're seeing early. So even when the result falls short, the learning is still useful. What You'll Take Away: The difference between preventable, complex, and intelligent failure Why intelligent failure belongs in new territory What makes an experiment smart, small, and worth running Why high achievers often need a better frame for failure How playing not to lose distorts innovation What This Asks of Leaders: Stop treating every miss as proof someone messed up Make the goal clear before the experiment starts Keep the bet no bigger than necessary Ask questions that invite candor instead of caution If your team needs a smarter way to think about failure, risk, and learning, this one is worth a listen. For full show notes and transcripts, visit https://renegademarketing.com/podcasts/ To learn more about CMO Huddles, visit https://cmohuddles.com/
Why Culture Is the Most Powerful Force at Work (And How to Actually Change It) | Marcus CollinsWhat if the biggest thing shaping your experience at work isn't your manager, your workload, or your pay, but something most organisations can't even define? In this episode, Cathal sits down with Marcus Collins, marketing professor at the University of Michigan's Ross School of Business, faculty director for the school's executive education partnership with Google, and faculty member at Harvard Extension School. Marcus has led digital strategy for Beyonce, worked on Nike and iTunes initiatives at Apple, and was recently awarded the Thinkers 50 Radar Distinguished Achievement Award.His book For the Culture: The Power Behind the World's Most Successful Brands has been endorsed by Daniel Pink, Adam Grant, Amy Edmondson, and Katy Milkman. But don't let the word "marketing" fool you. This is a people book, and the conversation goes deep into what actually drives behaviour in any organisation. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Failure has a terrible PR team. Rosie takes on one of the most common leadership roadblocks she sees in her coaching work, the fear of failure. From perfectionism to people pleasing, so many leaders are wired to avoid missteps at all costs. But what if the real growth edge is not avoiding failure, but building the muscle to fail well? Drawing on the concept of intelligent failures popularized by Amy Edmondson, Rosie reframes failure as a tool for learning, connection, and courage. She shares practical exercises to help you challenge your internal narrative, reflect on past missteps that turned into breakthroughs, and even invite perspective from others. This is not about celebrating mistakes. It is about stepping into new territory with intention and humility. If you are ready to loosen perfectionism's grip and lead with more freedom, this episode is your invitation to experiment, reflect, and grow. And as always, never ever let anyone dull your sparkle ✨ Additional Resources: Connect with Rosie on LinkedIn Learn more about Salveo Partners Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network Key Takeaways: Intelligent failures fuel growth and innovation Perfectionism blocks leadership courage Start small when experimenting Reframe past failures as learning moments Ask others for perspective on missteps
“Be yourself.” “Bring your whole self to work.” “Don't worry what people think.” These phrases sound empowering—but in real workplaces, they can create confusion, conflict, and even harm. In this episode of The Radical Candor Podcast, Kim Scott and Amy Sandler sit down with organizational psychologist Tomas Chamorro-Premuzic—Chief Science Officer at Russell Reynolds Associates, professor of business psychology at University College London and Columbia University, and author of Don't Be Yourself: Why Authenticity Is Overrated and What to Do Instead. They start with a moment of actual Radical Candor: Kim reached out after Tomas and Amy Edmondson accidentally conflated Radical Candor with “brutal honesty.” Instead of stewing, she did the hard (and human) thing—she talked to him. That conversation sets the tone for a bigger question: What does it really mean to be “authentic” at work? Tomas breaks down four “authenticity traps” that sound like wisdom but often backfire: Always be honest with yourself and others Don't worry what people think of you Always stay true to your values, no matter what Bring your whole self to work Together, they explore what replaces these traps: self-complexity, emotional intelligence, feedback you can absorb without defensiveness, and the discipline to regulate your impulses so you can build trust and safety—without turning the workplace into either chaos or conformity. If you've ever felt stuck between being “real” and being effective, this episode offers a more useful frame: your right to be you should never override your obligation to others. Website Instagram TikTok LinkedIn YouTube Bluesky Resources: Fast Company: To create psychological safety, don't bring your whole self to work TEDx Talk: Why Do So Many Incompetent Men Become Leaders? Next Big Idea Club: The Surprising Science of Why Being Authentic Can Hold You Back HBR Podcast: Why Are We Still Promoting Incompetent Men? Why Do So Many Incompetent Men Become Leaders? (And How To Fix It) [book] Don't Be Yourself: Why Authenticity Is Overrated and What to Do Instead [book] I, Human: AI, Automation, and the Quest to Reclaim What Makes Us Unique [book] Dr. Tomas Chamorro-Premuzic [website] Mentioned on the podcast: Infantilised: How Our Culture Killed Adulthood [book] Seinfeld episode: Life Hack “Do the opposite” [YouTube short] The Best Leaders are Great Followers HBR article by Tomas Chamorro-Premuzic and Amy C. Edmondson Chapters: (00:00) IntroductionKim and Amy welcome Tomas Chamorro-Premuzic and reflect on how this conversation began with Radical Candor. (03:10) Radical Candor vs. “Brutal Honesty”How a misinterpretation sparked a real conversation about kindness, nuance, and impact. (07:20) Why “Don't Be Yourself”The meaning behind the provocative title and why authenticity advice often backfires at work. (14:10) The Four Authenticity TrapsAlways be honest, don't care what people think, never compromise your values, and bring your whole self to work. (19:30) Confidence, Competence, and FeedbackWhy developing skill comes first—and how confidence is often about timing and delivery. (27:30) Staying True to Values Without Becoming DogmaticWhy uncompromising values can divide teams and what leadership actually requires. (30:10) Authenticity as PrivilegeWhy complete self-expression is often a luxury of the powerful, not a universal standard. (36:15) Psychological Safety Isn't ComfortWhy safety should enable productive discomfort, not chaos or bullying. (41:55) Emotional Intelligence vs. Unfiltered AuthenticityWhy adapting to others is a strength, not a lack of integrity. (49:10) Regulating Impulses as a LeaderHow filtering behavior builds trust without sacrificing humanity. (01:03:50) Conclusion Connect:Resources for show notes: Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Pat Lencioni discusses how to tap into your genius to make work more fulfilling and energizing.— YOU'LL LEARN — 1) How to stop feeling ashamed of your weaknesses2) The six types of working genius3) The real reason why so many professionals are burning outSubscribe or visit AwesomeAtYourJob.com/ep1135 for clickable versions of the links below. — ABOUT PAT — Pat is one of the founders of The Table Group and is the pioneer of the organizational health movement. He is the author of 13 books, which have sold over 9 million copies and been translated into more than 30 languages.As President of the Table Group, Pat spends his time speaking and writing about leadership, teamwork, and organizational health and consulting with executives and their teams. After more than twenty years in print, his classic book, The Five Dysfunctions of a Team, remains a fixture on national best-seller lists. His most recent book, The Six Types of Working Genius, was released in September 2022, and he is also the host of the popular business podcast, At The Table with Patrick Lencioni.• Assessment: Working Genius Assessment (use code: AWESOME for 20% off)• Book: The 6 Types of Working Genius: A Better Way to Understand Your Gifts, Your Frustrations, and Your Team• Podcast: At the Table Podcast• Podcast: The Working Genius Podcast• Website: TableGroup.com• Website: WorkingGenius.com— RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THE SHOW — • Book: Be Healed by Bob Schuchts• Book: Brother Odd: An Odd Thomas Novel by Dean Koontz• Past episode: 552: The Foundational Principle that Separates Good Leaders from Bad Ones with Pat Lencioni• Past episode: 707: Amy Edmondson on How to Build Thriving Teams with Psychological Safety— THANK YOU SPONSORS! — • Monarch.com. Get 50% off your first year on with the code AWESOME.• Vanguard. Give your clients consistent results year in and year out with vanguard.com/AUDIO• Shopify. Sign up for your $1/month trial at Shopify.com/betterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Daniel Coyle shares how to infuse ordinary work moments with greater meaning, joy, and fulfillment.— YOU'LL LEARN — 1) Why shared improvement beats self-improvement 2) The three minute visualization that liberates tremendous clarity3) Why vulnerability comes before trust–not after Subscribe or visit AwesomeAtYourJob.com/ep1134 for clickable versions of the links below. — ABOUT DANIEL — Daniel Coyle is the New York Times bestselling author of The Culture Code, which was named Best Business Book of the Year by Bloomberg, BookPal, and Business Insider. Coyle has served as an advisor to many high-performing organizations, including the Navy SEALs, Microsoft, Google, and the Cleveland Guardians. His other books include The Talent Code, The Secret Race, The Little Book of Talent, and Hardball: A Season in the Projects, which was made into a movie starring Keanu Reeves. Coyle was raised in Anchorage, Alaska, and now lives in Cleveland Heights, Ohio, during the school year and in Homer, Alaska, during the summer with his wife, Jenny, and their four children.• Book: Flourish: The Art of Building Meaning, Joy, and Fulfillment• Website: DanielCoyle.com— RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THE SHOW — • Tool: Graph Gear mechanical pencil • Book: The Right Stuff by Tom Wolfe• Book: Atomic Habits by James Clear • Past episode: 267: Managing Self-Doubt to Tackle Bigger Challenges with Tara Mohr• Past episode: 707: Amy Edmondson on How to Build Thriving Teams with Psychological Safety• Past episode: 732: How Aspiring Leaders Can Succeed Today with Clay Scroggins• Past episode: 830: Lessons Learned from the World's Longest Scientific Study on Happiness with Dr. Robert Waldinger— THANK YOU SPONSORS! — • Monarch.com. Get 50% off your first year on with the code AWESOME.• Vanguard. Give your clients consistent results year in and year out with vanguard.com/AUDIO• Shopify. Sign up for your $1/month trial at Shopify.com/betterSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
Hochleistungskultur in Teams zu entwickeln und wie viele Führungskräfte diese (unbewusst) sabotierenHochleistungskultur klingt nach Sport, Medaillen und noch mehr Output. In der Tech-Realität endet es aber oft in Druck, KPI-Angst und Teams, die lieber schweigen, statt Probleme offen anzusprechen. Genau dann wird es gefährlich, weil wir scheinbar Performance steigern wollen, in Wahrheit aber psychologische Sicherheit abbauen und damit die Organisation in eine Angstzone schieben.In dieser Interview-Episode holen wir uns dafür Verstärkung von Philip Klasen-Schwidetzki, Coach und Organisationsentwickler sowie Gründer von Troody. Wir nutzen das Modell von Amy Edmondson, psychologische Sicherheit plus Accountability, und übersetzen es in den Alltag von Engineering Teams, Performance Management und Leadership. Du hörst, warum mehr Messen nicht automatisch besser ist, wie du Ziele sauber rahmst, wie Caring und Daring Leadership zusammengehören und welche Sabotagemuster Führungskräfte häufig triggern, zum Beispiel Verantwortung an sich ziehen, Konflikte zu schnell entscheiden oder Teams in eine Komfortzone oder Angstzone kippen lassen.Zum Mitnehmen gibt es Kontrollfragen für ein Selbstassessment, konkrete Formulierungen für Mandate und Pushback im Middle Management, plus ein paar sehr alltagstaugliche Mikrosituationen, die über Team Performance entscheiden.Bonus: Am Ende wartet sogar ein kostenloses Lernprogramm rund um Caring und Daring, Link in den Shownotes, aber nur, wenn du bis dahin nicht schon aus der Komfortzone weggedöst bist.Unsere aktuellen Werbepartner findest du auf https://engineeringkiosk.dev/partnersDas schnelle Feedback zur Episode:
In this episode of The Workplace Podcast, William Corless speaks with Dr. Nicki Macklin about the strategic power of organisational kindness. Often dismissed as “soft,” kindness is frequently misunderstood in leadership. But research featured in Harvard Business Review - co-authored with Amy Edmondson and Thomas Lee - shows the opposite: kindness drives performance. In this conversation, they explore: Why kindness is not the same as niceness The real cost of workplace incivility How managers lose up to seven weeks a year dealing with poor culture How to measure kindness using metrics you already track This is a practical, research-backed discussion for leaders who want to balance performance with humanity — and understand the real business case for culture.
Graham Allcott: KIND Graham Allcott is an author, speaker, entrepreneur, and the founder of Think Productive, a leading provider of training and consultancy. He is the author of multiple books, including the bestseller How to Be a Productivity Ninja and his latest book, KIND: The Quiet Power of Kindness at Work (Amazon, Bookshop)*. “Nice” means telling people what they want to hear. “Kind” means telling them what they need to hear. The best leaders are kind. In this conversation, Graham and I explore how we can do a better job of following through. Key Points “Nice” means telling people what they want to hear, whereas “kind” means telling them what they need to hear. Kindness is both concern for others and concern for self. Just like with salted caramel, it's best with the right balance. Leaders often do better articulating vision and values than they do with getting clear on expectations of value each person should provide. Being clear is an act of kindness in itself because it drives psychological safety. Use a personal mantra as a concise and powerful way to consistently remind people about what's most important. Invite others to “give the last 20%” in feedback to uncover areas where clarity would help. Resources Mentioned KIND: The Quiet Power of Kindness at Work by Graham Allcott (Amazon, Bookshop)* Rev Up for the Week (Graham's newsletter) Interview Notes Download my interview notes in PDF format (free membership required). Related Episodes Five Steps to Hold People Accountable, with Jonathan Raymond (episode 306) How to Build Psychological Safety, with Amy Edmondson (episode 404) How to Give Feedback, with Russ Laraway (episode 583) Discover More Activate your free membership for full access to the entire library of interviews since 2011, searchable by topic. To accelerate your learning, uncover more inside Coaching for Leaders Plus.
Dr. Melisa Buie brings a fascinating perspective to the challenge of failure, one forged through decades of building high-powered lasers and leading manufacturing transformations in the semiconductor industry. With a PhD in Nuclear Engineering and Plasma Physics from the University of Michigan and over 15 years at Coherent, Inc., Melisa has spent her career solving complex technical problems. But it was a personal struggle that led to her latest book, "Faceplant: FREE Yourself from Failure's Funk," co-authored with Keely Hurley. Melisa shared a compelling story that became the catalyst for her book. Despite being completely comfortable with failure in the laboratory, where experiments routinely don't work, and models need constant refinement, she discovered she was terrified of failing in her personal life. When she took a Spanish class at Stanford and tried speaking her first sentence to a friend, the friend burst out laughing. Melisa's immediate reaction was to shut down completely. She realized she had developed a fixed mindset about failure outside the lab, and this contradiction troubled her deeply. She spent years reading everything she could about failure, learning, and growth, ultimately developing the framework that became "Faceplant." The book's title came from Melisa's co-author, Keely, who has a gift for turning her own missteps into hilarious stories. For Keely, every failure was just another face plant to laugh about, and the metaphor stuck immediately. The subtitle's use of "FREE" isn't just clever wordplay; it's an acronym for a practical framework: Focus, Reflect, Explore, Engage. Melisa explained that the framework grew organically from her lean manufacturing background, particularly the principle of Hansei, which emphasizes self-reflection followed by self-improvement. The first two steps help clarify what actually happened and understand your role in it, while the final two steps push you toward curiosity and experimentation. When asked about organizational barriers to learning from failure, Melisa highlighted the critical importance of psychological safety, pointing to the work of Amy Edmondson and Mark Graban. She noted that leaders often unintentionally shut down learning through their behaviors, even when they genuinely believe they support it. Melisa offered concrete examples to watch for: Is it easier to get approval for a half-million-dollar piece of equipment than to run a five-thousand-dollar experiment? If equipment purchases are immediate but experiment proposals sit unopened for weeks, that reveals the organization's true priorities. She also pointed to meeting dynamics when brainstorming sessions fall silent except for one voice, or when only a single idea emerges, and everyone rallies around it without discussion, those are warning signs. Perhaps most striking was Melisa's deliberate choice to use the word "failure" throughout her book, rather than softer alternatives like "learning opportunity" or "mistake." She explained that failure makes us deeply uncomfortable, and she didn't want to step over that discomfort. When one friend admitted to only failing once in life, Melisa felt sad for them, because without taking risks and chances, we miss the rich opportunities that failure provides. She acknowledged the irony: in the lab, ten failed experiments in a design of experiments might be considered a beautiful success because of what was learned. But she wanted to be honest about calling things what they are, pushing past the positive platitudes about failure to actually embrace it. Learn more about Melisa and her work at www.melisabuie.com and www.faceplantbook.com, or connect with her on LinkedIn.
Cristina Cranga: Why Nice Teams Still Fail and the Power of Honest Conversations Read the full Show Notes and search through the world's largest audio library on Agile and Scrum directly on the Scrum Master Toolbox Podcast website: http://bit.ly/SMTP_ShowNotes. "Sometimes you can change people by only listening to them. Not giving advice—don't become an advice monster." - Cristina Cranga Cristina shares her experience of sensing that something was off with a team but being unable to pinpoint exactly what it was. Instead of jumping to conclusions, she paused, reflected, and created an intervention plan centered on one thing: starting honest conversations. Through one-on-one discussions with team members, she discovered that the problem wasn't performance or process—it was something deeper. Expectations weren't aligned with reality, and frustration stemmed from a company culture that didn't offer psychological safety. Cristina introduces the concept of the "advice monster"—someone who constantly tells others what they should do rather than simply listening. She emphasizes that as Scrum Masters, we need to recognize the three layers of our influence: control, influence, and no control. Even when we can't solve problems, being present and listening can create profound change. The key is self-awareness of our own vulnerability as humans and compassion for others who might be at 80% or 10% of their mental health and energy on any given day. In this segment, we talk about the importance of psychological safety and active listening in team dynamics. Self-reflection Question: How often do you enter conversations with the intention of truly understanding rather than solving, and what might you discover if you listened more and advised less? Featured Book of the Week: The Fearless Organization by Amy Edmondson Cristina chose The Fearless Organization by Amy Edmondson as her most influential book because it explains what Scrum Masters see every day but struggle to name. The book provides a mental model for why teams don't speak up and how to influence behavior without forcing it. As Cristina puts it: "She explains why nice teams still fail. Silence is not always alignment and politeness—most of the time, it's distrust." The book repositions the Scrum Master role from someone focused on ceremonies to someone who creates the conditions for psychological safety. It also explains why process alone doesn't fix everything and helps Scrum Masters measure what really matters in a team. [The Scrum Master Toolbox Podcast Recommends]
Learn more about Michael Wenderoth, Executive Coach: www.changwenderoth.comWho has your back at work? Do you feel like you're constantly walking a tightrope – high up, with the spotlight on you, and no net? That's how many people, including senior executives, describe their experience at work – and what led Devon McConnell, an executive coach and psychotherapist, to explore what drives that stress and burnout. In this episode of 97% Effective, host Michael Wenderoth speaks with Devon about her research and coaching work examining how key relationships at work – especially with our boss – shape stress, burnout, and performance. They discuss what individuals and organizations can do to better navigate conflict and pressure at work, and why stress is so often driven by relationships rather than workload. Devon explains attachment theory in clear, practical terms, shares techniques to help you manage relational conflict and regain a sense of agency, and offers a thoughtful look at how AI could improve feedback and reduce unnecessary workplace anxiety. You'll leave this episode with a clearer understanding of what's really driving your stress, new ways to navigate tough relationships and conflict at work —and, at a minimum, knowing that Devon and Michael will always have your back.SHOW NOTES:The trend Devon noticed in her executive coaching practice that led her to research stress and burnoutAttachment science: what it really says, why it matters across different spheres of life, and how it's often oversimplifiedWhy having key figures as safe havens enables us to explore, take risks, and perform under pressureThe dependency paradox: why being able to rely on others actually increases autonomy and independenceHow attachment science helps explain why trust—especially in leaders—is so criticalWhy your personality is not fixed: how we develop attachment strategies early in life, and how new experiences can reshape themThe connection to Amy Edmondson's work on psychological safety—and why different language (e.g., trust vs. pyschological safety) often lands better with senior executivesA leadership metaphor that resonates: the importance of being a steady pilot in turbulent conditionsHow emotional labor—not workload—is a major driver of burnout“The higher you rise, the more how you manage yourself and your relationships defines your success—and how you feel about your success”Practical tools from Devon, including:o A powerful daily question: “What conversation are you not having—and with whom?”o How to diagnose whether your boss is a primary source of your stress—and why that awareness matterso How to use the Karpman Drama Triangle to understand conflict dynamics and make small shifts to regain agencyNavigating dependency, influence, and workplace politics more effectivelyA bright spot: how AI — used thoughtfully — could improve feedback and reduce workplace stressorsWhy conflict-avoidant bosses can cause more harm than openly difficult and abusive onesDevon's latest work developing and testing an AI-enabled 360 feedback toolHow her training in psychology and therapy has shaped her work as an executive coach BIO AND LINKS:Devon Forster McConnell is an executive coach and psychotherapist who works with CEOs and senior leaders on presence, influence, conflict management, and sustaining performance under pressure. She also researches, writes, and hosts the My Robot Boss podcast on the future of leadership in an AI-driven world and interventions for burnout and anxiety. Prior to coaching, Devon spent 20 years in Fortune 50 leadership roles at BlackRock and Wells Fargo Advisors. Devon is based in San Francisco, where she works with leaders and organizations globally. Connect with Devon:Devon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/devonmcconnell/Website: https://devonmcconnell.comPodcast: My Robot Boss: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/my-robot-boss/id1831832043Research & Frameworks Referenced:Devon's research presentation at the Columbia Coaching Conference (Judith E. Glaser Award finalist): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zOnDg1ZQ2_sAttachment theory: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Attachment_theoryThe dependency paradox (randomized controlled trial): https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17279849/Psychological safety (Amy Edmondson): https://amycedmondson.com/psychological-safety/The Karpman drama triangle: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Karpman_drama_triangleDr. Becky Kennedy (Good Inside): https://www.goodinside.com/about/ More from 97% Effective:Michael's book, Get Promoted: What You're Really Missing at Work That's Holding You Back:https://tinyurl.com/453txk74Watch this episode on the 97% Effective YouTube channel:https://www.youtube.com/@97PercentEffectiveAdvertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
On this special best of episode of Afternoon Cyber Tea, Ann revisits six standout conversations from the past year with Amy Edmondson, Christina Morillo, Frank X. Shaw, Hugh Thompson, Troy Hunt, and Jack Rhysider. Together, these moments highlight the evolving human and technical challenges shaping cybersecurity today, from trust and transparency to breach response, leadership under pressure, AI disruption, and the realities facing defenders on the front lines. This curated collection offers a fast-moving look at the insights, lessons, and big ideas that defined the season. Resources: View Ann Johnson on LinkedIn Related Microsoft Podcasts: Microsoft Threat Intelligence Podcast The BlueHat Podcast Uncovering Hidden Risks Discover and follow other Microsoft podcasts at microsoft.com/podcasts Afternoon Cyber Tea with Ann Johnson is produced by Microsoft, Hangar Studios and distributed as part of N2K media network.
Click HERE for Amy's LinkedIn profileClick HERE to purchase The Fearless OrganizationClick HERE to purchase TeamingClick HERE to download "What is a Fearless Organization."Check out these other episodes on Psychological Safety:Aaron Dignan - Brave New WorkJohn and Sara - Psychological SafetyJohn and Sara - Above the Line, Below the LineHERE ARE MORE RESOURCES FROM REAL GOOD VENTURES:Never miss a good opportunity to learn from a bad boss...Click HERE to get your very own Reference Profile. We use The Predictive Index as our analytics platform so you know it's validated and reliable. Your Reference Profile informs you of your needs, behaviors, and the nuances of what we call your Behavioral DNA. It also explains your work style, your strengths, and even the common traps in which you may find yourself. It's a great tool to share with friends, family, and co-workers.Follow us on Instagram HERE and make sure to share with your network!Follow us on X HERE and make sure to share with your network!Provide your feedback HERE, please! We love to hear from our listeners and welcome your thoughts and ideas about how to improve the podcast and even suggest topics and ideas for future episodes.Visit us at www.realgoodventures.com. We are a Talent Optimization consultancy specializing in people and business execution analytics. Real Good Ventures was founded by Sara Best and John Broer who are both Certified Talent Optimization Consultants with over 50 years of combined consulting and organizational performance experience. Sara is also certified in EQi 2.0. RGV is also a Certified Partner of Line-of-Sight, a powerful organizational health and execution platform. RGV is known for its work in leadership development, executive coaching, and what we call organizational rebuild where we bring all our tools together to diagnose an organization's present state and how to grow toward a stronger future state. Send us a text
Is 'Move Fast & Break Things' just permission to be reckless?Join Product Manager Brian Orlando and Enterprise Business Agility Consultant Om Patel as they examine Mark Zuckerberg's (in)famous mantra and reveal how it may have metastasized from breaking code to breaking laws, teams, and even contributing to real human harm.Watch or listen as we explore the critical dimensions of this philosophy, including:BREAKING SOFTWARE: How the original meaning of 'break things' (emphasizing first-mover advantage) evolved from rapid iteration of code to justifying regulatory evasion and monopolistic behavior.BREAKING TEAMS: Using Harvard research that shows 'always-on' cultures decrease productivity by 20% and spike turnover to discuss how intensity without recovery is just exploitation (and what to do instead).BREAKING PEOPLE: Discussing the human costs of unchecked speed, from Facebook's alleged role in the Myanmar genocide to Uber's systemic harassment culture to Theranos's fraud.LEARNING OVER SPEED: We discuss Eric Ries's seminal work: The Lean Startup and how it went out of it's way to emphasize learning velocity over shipping velocity. WRONG (we guess)!PUSHING BACK (WITHOUT GETTING FIRED): We brainstorm for frameworks to use for challenging speed-obsessed leadership, including trade-off and discuss real-world experiences.Whether you're running a business, a product manager, or a team member just trying to keep up, this episode arms you with arguments and frameworks to advocate for ethical innovation.What's your take on 'move fast' culture? Have you seen it more of a positive or negative?#ProductManagement #TechEthics #AgileLeadershipREFERENCESMove Fast and Break Things by Jonathan Taplin (2017), Careless People: A Cautionary Tale of Power Greed and Lost Idealism by Sarah Wynn Williams, The Lean Startup by Eric Ries (2011), The Fearless Organization by Amy Edmondson (2018), Susan Fowler's blog 'Reflecting on One Very Very Strange Year at Uber' (February 2017), UN Human Rights Council 2018 report on Facebook and Myanmar, Harvard Business School research on always-on cultures (2009), Agile Podcast E22 - Interview with a Scrum Trainer: Fred Mastropasqua (August 2021), Extreme Ownership by Jocko Willink, The Social Network (film, 2010)LINKSYouTube https://www.youtube.com/@arguingagileSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/362QvYORmtZRKAeTAE57v3Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/agile-podcast/id1568557596Website: https://arguingagile.com/
In this episode of the Positive Leadership Podcast, second edit ofthis special series dedicacted to AI, I'm delighted to welcome Navrina Singh, Founder and CEO of Credo AI, and one of the most influential voices shaping the future of responsible artificial intelligence. Navrina is a technology leader with nearly two decades of experience at Qualcomm and Microsoft, and today she stands at the crossroads of AI, leadership, and public policy. She advises governments and global institutions on AI governance, serves on the U.S. National AI Advisory Committee, works with the United Nations and the OECD, and was recently named one of TIME's 100 Most Influential People in AI. In our conversation, Navrina shares her remarkable journey — from growing up in India in a family that instilled resilience and courage, to moving to the United States at 19, and eventually becoming a global advocate for trust, accountability, and human values in AI. We explore the pivotal moment when she realized that AI systems were making women and other groups “invisible,” and how that awakening shaped her mission. Together, we discuss why the real risks of AI are not about the power of the technology itself, but about the absence of governance, measurement, and responsibility. Navrina also explains why she founded Credo AI in the middle of a global pandemic, and how her company is helping organizations turn AI ethics into practical, measurable, and auditable systems of trust. We dive into the evolution of global AI governance, the importance of diversity in AI development, and the leadership mindsets required to thrive in an AI-driven world. Throughout the episode, Navrina reminds us that AI will inevitably reflect the values of those who build it, and that positive leadership — grounded in empathy, accountability, and courage — is essential if we want AI to truly serve humanity. This conversation is for leaders, entrepreneurs, policymakers, and anyone who believes technology must be guided by purpose, trust, and human-centered values. I hope you'll enjoy this deep and inspiring conversation with Navrina Singh. To extend the conversation, I invite you to revisit three previous episodes of the Positive Leadership Podcast: Peggy Johnson: Leading a Human-Centric Future of AI and Robotics https://www.jpcourtois.com/podcast/peggy-johnson-leading-a-human-centric-future-of-ai-and-robotics Human centric AI (with Rana el Kaliouby): https://www.jpcourtois.com/podcast/human-centric-ai-with-rana-el-kaliouby How to fail well (with Amy Edmondson): https://www.jpcourtois.com/podcast/how-to-fail-well-with-amy-edmondson Subscribe now to JP's free monthly newsletter "Positive Leadership and You" on LinkedIn to transform your positive impact today: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/positive-leadership-you-6970390170017669121/
Creating Organizational Cultures That Actually Work In this episode, Michael and cultural anthropologist Jitske Kramer dive deep into the heart of organizational culture. Michael shares a story from a startup he supported, where a crystal clear sense of purpose created unity, loyalty, and a genuine feeling of belonging. Employees stayed because they felt connected to something bigger than a job description. Jitske expands on this by highlighting how leaders shape culture through the behaviors, values, and norms they model. She stresses that culture is never an accident. It is a series of daily choices and conversations. When leaders fail to engage with their teams or invite them into meaningful decision making, organizations lose clarity and people lose their sense of belonging. Both Michael and Jitske agree that leaders miss countless opportunities to build trust simply because they are not intentionally engaging with their people. Transformative Leadership and the Power of Human Connection Michael brings up a powerful metaphor involving an orchestra conductor to show how communication and knowledge flow can transform the relationship between leaders and their teams. When the conductor shifts from directing to connecting, the entire ensemble transforms. The energy changes. People take ownership. Collaboration becomes natural rather than forced. Jitske builds on this idea by contrasting transactional interactions with transformative ones. Transactional moments keep the lights on, but transformative moments build the future. She emphasizes the need for what she calls campfire conversations. These are the unhurried, human centered discussions where ideas form, trust deepens, and innovation actually has space to emerge. They conclude that the most successful organizations are the ones that prioritize human to human connection over rigid systems and corporate scripts. Finding Clarity in the Messy Middle of Change Jitske introduces her latest book, Tricky Times, which explores liminality. Liminality refers to the messy middle stage of change when the old story no longer works and the new story is not yet formed. She describes this phase as uncomfortable but deeply necessary. She explains that societies worldwide are wrestling with a kind of midlife crisis. People are questioning the expectation of nonstop economic growth and the conflict it creates with environmental and social realities. In these liminal spaces, power dynamics shift. Cultural identities get rewritten. Leaders are challenged to redefine what truly matters. Michael shares how timely these insights feel, especially given the current political climate in the United States and abroad. He highlights how difficult but essential conversations shape whether we move forward with intention or stay stuck in old patterns. Leading with Courage in Tricky Times Jitske describes the leadership challenges she writes about in Tricky Times. She warns against leaders who act like tricksters, constantly pushing boundaries without offering guidance or stability. True leadership requires bold honesty, grounded decision making, and the willingness to enter uncomfortable conversations. She emphasizes that balanced leadership is essential. Leaders must be willing to question assumptions, tell the truth about what is working and what is not, and invite their organizations into deeper reflection. Tricky Times has become a bestseller in the Netherlands, and Jitske is sharing its message with influential political leaders who are navigating uncertainty on a national scale. The book is available as an e-book on Amazon and offers a grounded, human centered framework for leading through cultural transformation. Jitske Kramer is a renowned Dutch corporate anthropologist who translates real-world lessons from communities around the globe into practical tools for modern workplaces. She travels the world to learn from traditional healers, innovators, random passers-by, and everyday communities, studying how humans bond, lead, and resolve conflict — and brings those insights into the boardroom. Her latest book, Tricky Times (a #1 Dutch bestseller), explores what it takes to lead in “the messy middle” — those uncertain in-between phases where old systems break down before new ones emerge. With 25+ years of experience, she has shaped transformation for Nike, Unilever, Calvin Klein, and Philips, authored 9 bestselling books (150,000+ copies sold), and spoken alongside Simon Sinek, Amy Edmondson, Yuval Noah Harari on stages like TEDx and Workhuman Live. Jitske's sharp, funny, and “aha”-filled style makes anthropology highly accessible for leaders facing change, culture challenges, and transformation. Topics: The messy middle: Leading effectively through uncertainty and liminal times The real drivers of company culture: Rituals, symbols, and hidden power structures How to “think like an anthropologist” to sense change and spot unseen dynamics The difference between formal power and cultural power — and why rank-awareness is critical for leaders What tribes can teach today's organizations about handling dilemmas and conflict More about Jitske: Founder of HumanDimensions, a pioneering training company that helps organizations strengthen teamwork and company culture. Featured in the Patterns of Life documentary series, in which she traveled to India as an anthropologist. Former Fellow at the Oxford Leadership Academy; holds a master's degree in cultural anthropology from Utrecht University. Other books by Jitske: Building Tribes, Wow! What a Difference, Work Has Left the Building, Jam Cultures, andThe Corporate Tribe (which won the prestigious 2016 Management book of the Year Award). Take a look at Jitske's keynotes, other public speeches, TV appearances, and writings. To get a sense of Jitske, here's an appearance she made on The Culture Lab podcast, talking about the making of a corporate tribe and how to effectively deal with diversity in a team.
In de accountancy is kwaliteit niet onderhandelbaar. Tegelijkertijd weten we dat controlekwaliteit sterk samenhangt met teamdynamiek, cultuur en de mate waarin mensen zich durven uitspreken. Dat plaatst managers midden in een spanningsveld: hoe ben je scherp op inhoud en normen, zonder een klimaat te creëren waarin twijfel en fouten verborgen blijven of worden genegeerd?In deze aflevering van Vitamine A gaan we hierover in gesprek met drie gasten aan tafel: Martin Berghuis (Londen & Van Holland), Gert van Ginkel (Baker Tilly) en Claudia Koppen (Pure Colors). Vanuit verschillende perspectieven verkennen we hoe managers dagelijks invloed uitoefenen op cultuur en gedrag in controleteams. Daarbij maken we gebruik van inzichten uit onderzoek naar psychologische veiligheid, onder meer van Amy Edmondson, maar steeds verbonden aan herkenbare situaties uit de praktijk.Aan bod komen onder andere:wat psychologische veiligheid betekent in de controlepraktijkhoe managers ruimte creëren voor speak-up, ook onder tijdsdrukhet omgaan met feedback en spanning tussen controle en vertrouwende balans tussen professioneel en menselijk gedragwaarom cultuurverandering vaak begint met kleine, dagelijkse interventiesWe onderzoeken hoe leidinggevenden, vaak zonder het zelf te merken, bepalend zijn voor het (leer)klimaat en daarmee voor de kwaliteit van het werk.Een aflevering voor managers, partners en accountants die willen reflecteren op hun rol in teams.Links:Boek: The Fearless Organization: Creating Psychological Safety in the Workplace for Learning, Innovation, and Growth van Amy C. Edmondson.
On this Live Greatly podcast episode, Kristel Bauer sits down with "Courage Catalyst" Dr. Margie Warrell, six-time bestselling author of The Courage Gap. Kristel and Margie discuss how to navigate being an insecure overachiever and how to build courage. Tune in now! Key Takeaways From This Episode: A look into being an insecure overachiever and how to overcome it Tips to build courage within ourselves A look into Dr. Warrell's book, The Courage Gap ABOUT DR. MARGIE WARRELL Dr. Margie Warrell is a six-time bestselling author, leadership advisor, keynote speaker, and "courage catalyst" bringing deep insight into human and organizational behavior to foster braver leadership and better outcomes. Dr. Warrell has gained profound insights on managing fear, navigating risk, and embracing change since her childhood in rural Australia. Thirty years of living and working around the world—from Papua, New Guinea to Singapore—have provided her with a globally grounded perspective on navigating risk and overcoming the barriers that stifle potential in individuals and organizations. Drawing on her doctoral research and experience in coaching and Fortune 500 consulting, Dr. Warrell is a trusted advisor across private and public sectors, helping to embolden braver leadership and cultivate forward-thinking "cultures of courage" that counter change resistance, foster learning, and accelerate growth. Organizations such as NASA, Dell, Morgan Stanley, SAP, Novartis, the UN Foundation, HP, Google, and Johnson & Johnson have sought her expertise. Author of the new book, The Courage Gap, Dr. Warrell is renowned for her ability to bridge the "head and heart" as a writer and speaker. She has also co-authored two other books with Stephen Covey, Ken Blanchard, and Jack Canfield. Her interviews with leaders and luminaries—including Bill Marriott, Richard Branson, and Amy Edmondson of Harvard Business School—inform her thought leadership, which she shares through her global top 1.5% podcast, Live Brave, Forbes column, and leading media outlets such as CNN, Bloomberg, and the WSJ. Dr. Warrell's commitment to "braver leadership for a better world" extends to advising US Congressional Chiefs, McCain Global Fellows, and emerging female leaders in burgeoning democracies. A passionate advocate for women in leadership, she has served on numerous government roundtables, co-led Korn Ferry's Power of All initiative to advance more women to C-suite and board tables, and been Senior Partner in their CEO & Leadership Institute. Connect with Dr. Warrell Order Dr. Warrell's book: https://a.co/d/81cuf2F Website: https://margiewarrell.com/ Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/margiewarrell/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/margiewarrell/ About the Host of the Live Greatly podcast, Kristel Bauer: Kristel Bauer is a corporate wellness and performance expert, keynote speaker and TEDx speaker supporting organizations and individuals on their journeys for more happiness and success. She is the author of Work-Life Tango: Finding Happiness, Harmony, and Peak Performance Wherever You Work (John Murray Business November 19, 2024). With Kristel's healthcare background, she provides data driven actionable strategies to leverage happiness and high-power habits to drive growth mindsets, peak performance, profitability, well-being and a culture of excellence. Kristel's keynotes provide insights to "Live Greatly" while promoting leadership development and team building. Kristel is the creator and host of her global top self-improvement podcast, Live Greatly. She is a contributing writer for Entrepreneur, and she is an influencer in the business and wellness space having been recognized as a Top 10 Social Media Influencer of 2021 in Forbes. As an Integrative Medicine Fellow & Physician Assistant having practiced clinically in Integrative Psychiatry, Kristel has a unique perspective into attaining a mindset for more happiness and success. Kristel has presented to groups from the American Gas Association, Bank of America, bp, Commercial Metals Company, General Mills, Northwestern University, Santander Bank and many more. Kristel has been featured in Forbes, Forest & Bluff Magazine, Authority Magazine & Podcast Magazine and she has appeared on ABC 7 Chicago, WGN Daytime Chicago, Fox 4's WDAF-TV's Great Day KC, and Ticker News. Kristel lives in the Fort Lauderdale, Florida area and she can be booked for speaking engagements worldwide. To Book Kristel as a speaker for your next event, click here. Website: www.livegreatly.co Follow Kristel Bauer on: Instagram: @livegreatly_co LinkedIn: Kristel Bauer Twitter: @livegreatly_co Facebook: @livegreatly.co Youtube: Live Greatly, Kristel Bauer To Watch Kristel Bauer's TEDx talk of Redefining Work/Life Balance in a COVID-19 World click here. Click HERE to check out Kristel's corporate wellness and leadership blog Click HERE to check out Kristel's Travel and Wellness Blog Disclaimer: The contents of this podcast are intended for informational and educational purposes only. Always seek the guidance of your physician for any recommendations specific to you or for any questions regarding your specific health, your sleep patterns changes to diet and exercise, or any medical conditions. Always consult your physician before starting any supplements or new lifestyle programs. All information, views and statements shared on the Live Greatly podcast are purely the opinions of the authors, and are not medical advice or treatment recommendations. They have not been evaluated by the food and drug administration. Opinions of guests are their own and Kristel Bauer & this podcast does not endorse or accept responsibility for statements made by guests. Neither Kristel Bauer nor this podcast takes responsibility for possible health consequences of a person or persons following the information in this educational content. Always consult your physician for recommendations specific to you.
Have you ever noticed how one small slip, one mistake, or even one word can send you spiralling into old patterns? In episode 229 of The Alcohol ReThink Podcast, Patrick talks about why so many men feel huge resistance around the idea of failing, and how that resistance then shapes and influences their attempts to rethink alcohol. Patrick shares how school, parenting and early experiences teach us that getting things 'wrong' is something to avoid. He also shares a personal moment from home where an innocent word triggered an old emotional reaction, and how that experience opened up a deeper conversation about identity, childhood wounds and the meaning we attach to failure. You'll hear insights from Gabor Maté and Amy Edmondson to show why our brains react the way they do, why avoidance can feel safer than trying, and why men often lean on willpower when what they really need is curiosity and compassion. Patrick explains how shifting the energy you bring to rethinking alcohol, from pressure to permission, completely changes your experience results. Get ready for a powerful question at the end of the show that will help you see what you're truly proving to yourself every time you try to change your drinking.Awesome topics you'll hear in this epsiode: Old experiences shape how you react to mistakes today.Avoidance isn't laziness, it's emotional protection.Willpower burns out quickly, curiosity keeps you moving.Feeling safe to get things wrong is essential for growth.Failure is feedback, not identity.Sobriety works best when treated as a skill you develop.Resisting failure keeps you stuck in the same loop.The win isn't avoiding the fall, it's getting better at getting up.Disrupt Your Life Register Interest here: https://www.patrickjfox.com/disrupt-your-lifeWork with Patrick:Discover how coaching can support your goals in rethinking alcohol.
The Center for Medical Simulation Presents: DJ Simulationistas... 'Sup?
This week, Jenny and James explore recent conversations that didn't go as well as they could have, because of different types of failures in the words we chose to use or the things we chose to reveal. Building on the work of recent guest Amy Edmondson, we look at the way that people in fearless organizations can talk—using the conversations that you have to frame the work, emphasize shared purpose to create joy even in everyday work, and demonstrate that you don't think you have all the answers. Workout of the week: Observe for conversations where you feel unclear—what was the point of this meeting, why are we having this conversation, what are our goals of care for this patient? Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/72gzzWGegiXd9i2G6UJ0kP Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-center-for-medical-simulation/id1279266822 Leadership Coaching from Jenny Rudolph: https://harvardmedsim.org/personal-leadership-coaching-with-jenny-rudolph/
Struggling with costs in your healthcare organization? Reach out to Michael. Click Here for more info Episode Overview In this episode of the Breakfast Leadership Show, Michael speaks with Michi McClure, Founder of Consivian, about her transformation from an “accidental leader” to a conscious architect of human and organizational growth. Michi shares how her firm evolved from its compliance origins into a full-spectrum business consultancy helping leaders and teams grow through authenticity, systems thinking, and self-awareness. Together, they explore what it means to build organizations that are not just compliant — but truly connected, conscious, and continually learning. Key Topics & Insights Authentic Connection as the Foundation of Growth Michael and Michi unpack how organizational health begins with authentic human connection. They discuss how leaders can create environments where people feel safe to speak openly, challenge ideas, and contribute meaningfully. Drawing inspiration from 3M's innovation culture and Amy Edmondson's research on psychological safety, the conversation highlights the power of balancing data-driven insight with genuine human empathy. The Power of Inclusion in Leadership Decisions Michael shares a story about a healthcare redesign initiative that excluded doctors from the planning process — a costly mistake that became a case study in why leaders must include all stakeholders. The story becomes a powerful metaphor for leadership humility, reminding us that sustainable change only happens when everyone's voice is invited to the table. Flexibility and Communication at Every Level Michi and Michael discuss how leaders can move beyond rigid structures and instead create flexible meeting formats, adaptive communication rhythms, and spaces for real-time problem-solving. They emphasize that leadership today isn't about following old rules — it's about being present, reflective, and responsive to what teams actually need. Visual Feedback and Leadership Awareness Michi shares her creative experiment with a “visual thermometer” on her office door, where her team could anonymously reflect how they perceived her leadership presence each day. This tool became a catalyst for self-awareness and emotional intelligence — qualities she believes are essential to modern leadership. Michael expands on the idea, encouraging leaders to “take their own pulse” after key interactions to assess connection and tone. Reflection as the Path to Personal and Organizational Growth Both Michi and Michael underscore the importance of reflective learning — recognizing blind spots, seeking feedback, and embracing discomfort as a teacher. Michi connects this process to burnout prevention, explaining how reflection and feedback re-energize leaders by aligning them more deeply with purpose. Creativity, Self-Care, and Sustainable Leadership In a discussion that blends philosophy and practicality, Michi advocates for leaders to give themselves “space and grace” to recharge creatively. Michael introduces the timeless “sharpen the saw” parable, illustrating how sustainable productivity requires rest, reflection, and recalibration. Together, they explore how Consivian helps leaders move from burnout to balanced, consistent performance — like the steady pace of a tortoise rather than the burnout-driven sprint of a hare. Navigating Organizational Change with Self-Awareness Michi dives into the challenges of change management, noting that many leaders attempt to “fix” others before examining their own systems. She encourages a shift toward self-inquiry, using feedback loops and system mapping to uncover invisible barriers that hinder transformation. Continuous Learning as a Business Imperative To close, Michi shares how continuous learning shapes the culture at Consivian — each client engagement becomes a new opportunity for insight, innovation, and growth. She invites listeners to explore more about her work and resources at consivian.com. Connect with Michi McClure & Consivian
We've all heard the advice: bring your whole self to work.But recently, two voices made me stop and rethink that message — Amy Edmondson, who reminds us that authenticity needs accountability, and Jodi-Ann Burey, whose book Authentic: The Myth of Bringing Your Full Self to Work explores how “being yourself” can carry a cost, especially for women and people of colour.Amy's post offered a great example: a colleague who interrupts everyone and says, “That's just how I am.” Authentic? Maybe. But not exactly inclusive. Her point: instead of bringing our whole selves, we should bring our best selves — still imperfect, but aware of others.Then there's Jodi-Ann's story: accused of having a “race agenda” two weeks into a new job, even though inclusion was part of her role. It highlights the contradiction so many people face — workplaces say they want authenticity and diversity, but often punish it when it shows up in real life.For me, authenticity isn't about exposure, it's about integrity — showing up in a way that feels aligned and safe. True belonging means both care and accountability, for ourselves and for the spaces we share.
Mark Crowley: The Power of Employee Well-Being Mark Crowley is a pioneer in workplace leadership, a speaker, and the bestselling author of Lead from the Heart. He is the host of the Lead from the Heart podcast. His new book is The Power of Employee Well-Being: Move Beyond Engagement to Build Flourishing Teams (Amazon, Bookshop). When I talk with leaders, many of them tell me that it's really hard to decide on how much recognition to give people vs. constructive or critical feedback. In this conversation, Mark and I highlight the ideal ratio to calibrate our communications so that we support people's well-being while also helping them grow. Key Points Despite the focus on employee engagement, actual engagement scores are the same or worse than a decade ago. Post-COVID, there's a massive move towards employee well-being. This is good for both the organization and the employee. An ideal positivity ratio is 4:1 in many relationships. That's four positive interactions for every constructive or critical interaction. We react more strongly to negative influence than positions once, thus the need for a ratio favoring the positive. Positive interactions include optimism, enthusiasm, solutions orientation, encouragement, kindness, thoughtfulness, approachability, interest, and appreciation. Leaders still must make unpopular decisions, set expectations, and give critical feedback. Positive interactions are in addition to these, not instead of. Resources Mentioned The Power of Employee Well-Being: Move Beyond Engagement to Build Flourishing Teams (Amazon, Bookshop)* by Mark Crowley Interview Notes Download my interview notes in PDF format (free membership required). Related Episodes How to Build Psychological Safety, with Amy Edmondson (episode 404) Gallup Findings on the Changing Nature of Work, with Jim Harter (episode 409) The Way to Notice People Better, with Zach Mercurio (episode 733) Discover More Activate your free membership for full access to the entire library of interviews since 2011, searchable by topic. To accelerate your learning, uncover more inside Coaching for Leaders Plus.
Details Psychological safety is not a new term anymore, but it has matured into a foundational leadership capability, much like communication or trust no longer a “nice to have,” but a critical driver of collaboration, retention, and innovation. Drawing on Amy Edmondson's groundbreaking research and Zenger Folkman's data from 18,000 employees, they unpack the eight leadership behaviors that … Continued The post Episode 172: Why Psychological Safety Matters More Than Ever first appeared on ZENGER FOLKMAN.
What if failure wasn't the end but the beginning? Dr. Amy Edmondson, Harvard Business School professor and author of The Fearless Organization and The Right Kind of Wrong, says that failure is not proof you're falling behind – it's proof you've taken a risk. And if you set it up right, it can actually be the key to progress.In this season finale of This is Small Business, host Andrea Marquez sits down with Amy to explore why our relationship with failure shapes how far we can go as entrepreneurs. From the science of “psychological safety” to the three types of failure – basic, complex, and intelligent – Amy offers a crash course on how to fail the right way, what to learn from it, and why the best entrepreneurs are the ones who stumble, recover, and keep moving forward.If you've ever worried about making mistakes or held yourself back from starting and taking risks because of the fear of failing, this conversation will help you reframe failure as momentum, not defeat. Got a bold leap of your own? Share it with us in an Apple Podcasts review, Spotify comment, or email us at thisissmallbusiness@amazon.com – you might hear it in a future episode.In this episode, you'll hear: (1:45) Why do conversations and team dynamics matter so much for success? Amy explains how the quality of everyday interactions shapes an organization's performance.(3:43) What is psychological safety in the workplace and why should entrepreneurs care about it? Amy explains why people need to feel safe to speak up, ask questions, and admit mistakes in order for teams to learn and innovate.(5:40) How do you actually create psychological safety on your team? Amy shares a simple three-step framework: set the stage, proactively invite voices in, and respond with appreciation.(9:03) What's the real difference between a mistake and a failure? Amy breaks down her three types of failure – basic, complex, and intelligent – and shows how intelligent failures are actually discoveries that fuel growth and innovation.(12:57) Can failure actually lead to breakthrough ideas? Amy tells the story of her first big research failure and how it unexpectedly led to her pioneering work on psychological safety.(15:49) How do you make failure safe without encouraging the wrong kind of failure? Amy explains why innovation requires failure – but only in the right contexts – and shares three dimensions every entrepreneur should check first: human safety, economic cost, and reputational risk.(18:34) How do you know if a failure is one you can come back from? Amy shares her four criteria for an “intelligent failure” that could help you improve without causing lasting damage.(20:19) Do successful people fail more often than the rest of us? Amy explains why the best in any field – from science to sports – tend to have more failures, not fewer.(22:41) How can entrepreneurs stop being afraid of failure? Amy explains why nobody's in the “perfection business” and how reframing setbacks as “catch and correct” moments can build resilience.
Speaking up shouldn't be a career risk. In this episode of Hard Hat Headspace, we step onto a high-stakes healthcare build where a rookie's question prevents a costly mistake—because the foreman has hardwired “If you see it, say it.” You'll learn field-ready moves: two-question safety openers, 120-second micro-debriefs, and visible close-the-loop boards that turn near-misses into next-day wins. Backed by insights popularized by Harvard's Amy Edmondson and reinforced by FMI/HBR research, plus jobsite spotlights where candor and standards live side by side, this episode shows crews how to pair trust with teeth—and why that combo delivers safer, faster, better work. #BeNEXT
Jaguar Land Rover suffers a major cyberattack. ICE gains access to a powerful spyware tool. Researchers find Fancy Bear snuffling around a new Outlook backdoor. Cloudflare and Palo Alto Networks confirm compromised Salesforce data. A researcher discovers an unsecured Navy Federal Credit Union (NFCU) server. A new ClickFix scam spreads MetaStealer malware. Specialty healthcare providers struggle to protect sensitive patient data. CISA appoints a new Executive Assistant Director for Cybersecurity. On Afternoon Cyber Tea, Ann Johnson and Harvard's Amy Edmondson discuss how psychological safety helps cybersecurity teams speak up, spot risks, and learn from failure. Our guest today is Tim Starks from CyberScoop discussing China's reliance on domestic firms for hacking. Hackers threaten to feed stolen art to the machines. Remember to leave us a 5-star rating and review in your favorite podcast app. Miss an episode? Sign-up for our daily intelligence roundup, Daily Briefing, and you'll never miss a beat. And be sure to follow CyberWire Daily on LinkedIn. Afternoon Cyber Tea On our Afternoon Cyber Tea segment, host Ann Johnson is joined by Amy Edmondson, Harvard Business School professor and psychological safety pioneer. Together they discuss how creating psychologically safe environments allows teams, especially in high-pressure fields like cybersecurity, to speak up about early warnings, embrace the red, and learn from failure. You can listen to Ann and Amy's full conversation here and don't miss new episodes of Afternoon Cyber Tea every other Tuesday on your favorite podcast app. CyberWire Guest Our guest today is Tim Starks from CyberScoop discussing Top FBI official says Chinese reliance on domestic firms for hacking is a weakness. Selected Reading Jaguar Land Rover Operations ‘Severely Disrupted' by Cyberattack (Security Week) Ice obtains access to Israeli-made spyware that can hack phones and encrypted apps (The Guardian) Russian APT28 Expands Arsenal with 'NotDoor' Outlook Backdoor (Infosecurity Magazine) Cloudflare and Palo Alto Networks Victimized in Salesloft Drift Breach (Infosecurity Magazine) Misconfigured Server Leaks 378GB of Navy Federal Credit Union Files (Hack Read) Fake AnyDesk Installer Spreads MetaStealer Through ClickFix Scam (Hack Read) Hacks on Specialty Health Entities Affect Nearly 900,000 (Bank Infosecurity) Python-based infostealer ‘Inf0s3c' combines stealth with broad data theft (SC Media) CISA Names Nicholas Andersen as Executive Assistant Director for Cybersecurity (The Cyber Express) Hackers Threaten to Submit Artists' Data to AI Models If Art Site Doesn't Pay Up (404 Media) Share your feedback. What do you think about CyberWire Daily? Please take a few minutes to share your thoughts with us by completing our brief listener survey. Thank you for helping us continue to improve our show. Want to hear your company in the show? You too can reach the most influential leaders and operators in the industry. Here's our media kit. Contact us at cyberwire@n2k.com to request more info. The CyberWire is a production of N2K Networks, your source for strategic workforce intelligence. © N2K Networks, Inc. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
In November, Alex Adamopoulos, CEO of Emergn, joined me on Tech Talks Daily to talk about transformation fatigue and why so many well-intentioned change programs leave people drained rather than inspired. This time, he's back with a sharper question: if traditional transformation is broken, what actually works? His answer is refreshingly direct. Product thinking is strategic thinking, and it belongs everywhere in the enterprise, not just in product teams. In our conversation, Alex explains why HR, finance, and even legal teams now need product strategy skills as much as engineers or designers. He introduces Praxis, Emergn's newly launched platform that rebrands their long-standing VFQ approach and now embeds product thinking across entire organizations. With its AI-powered coach Stella, Praxis is designed to support continuous learning while helping teams make better day-to-day decisions. We also discuss why outcomes, not deliverables, have become the accurate measure of digital success. Alex likens it to leaders constantly returning to their boards like entrepreneurs on Shark Tank, demonstrating incremental value before securing the next round of support. This shift in accountability changes how teams plan, learn, and invest. Another essential thread is the link between burnout and broken transformation models. Alex recently co-authored a paper with Harvard professor Amy Edmondson on “Breaking the Failure Cycle,” and he shares how adopting a product mindset can help organizations move past fatigue by focusing on outcomes, embracing uncertainty, and avoiding the endless reinvention trap. Whether you're in a global enterprise grappling with AI adoption or a smaller company rethinking strategy, this episode is a reminder that transformation is not a program but a continuous practice. Product thinking offers a practical path forward, one that makes strategy executable, measurable, and, most importantly, sustainable.
Amy Edmondson, Harvard Business School professor and psychological safety pioneer joins Ann on this week's episode of Afternoon Cyber Tea. Together they discuss how creating psychologically safe environments allows teams, especially in high-pressure fields like cybersecurity, to speak up about early warnings, embrace the red, and learn from failure. Amy shares her framework for distinguishing between intelligent, basic, and complex failures, and offers practical guidance for leaders looking to build high-performing, resilient teams in uncertain, fast-moving environments. Resources: View Amy Edmondson on LinkedIn View Ann Johnson on LinkedIn Related Microsoft Podcasts: Microsoft Threat Intelligence Podcast The BlueHat Podcast Uncovering Hidden Risks Discover and follow other Microsoft podcasts at microsoft.com/podcasts Afternoon Cyber Tea with Ann Johnson is produced by Microsoft and distributed as part of N2K media network.
Zach Mercurio reveals the hidden epidemic that's plaguing the workplace—and what we can do about it.— YOU'LL LEARN — 1) The root of disengagement and quiet quitting2) How to help others feel valued in just 30 seconds3) The questions that help people feel seenSubscribe or visit AwesomeAtYourJob.com/ep1083 for clickable versions of the links below. — ABOUT GINO — Zach Mercurio is a researcher, leadership development facilitator, and speaker specializing in purposeful leadership, mattering, and meaningful work. He advises leaders in organizations worldwide on practices for building cultures that promote well-being, motivation, and high performance. Mercurio holds a PhD in organizational learning, performance, and change and serves as one of Simon Sinek's Optimist Instructors, teaching a top-rated course on creating mattering at work. His previous book is The Invisible Leader.• Book: The Power of Mattering: How Leaders Can Create a Culture of Significance• Study: “The Lived Experience of Meaningful Work in a Stigmatized Occupation: A Descriptive Phenomenological Inquiry”• LinkedIn: Zach Mercurio• Website: ZachMercurio.com— RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THE SHOW — • Study: “Human Workplace Index: The Price of Invisibility” from Workhuman• Study: “Age, Perceptions of Mattering, and Allostatic Load” by John Taylor, Michael J. McFarland, and Dawn C. Carr• Study: “Undervaluing Gratitude: Expressers Misunderstand the Consequences of Showing Appreciation” by Amit Kumar and Nicholas Epley• Study: “It's not all about me: motivating hand hygiene among health care professionals by focusing on patients” by Adam Grant and David A. Hofmann• Book: Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl• Past episode: 500: Building Unshakeable Self-Esteem and Confidence with Victor Cheng• Past episode: 972: Amy Edmondson on How to Fail Well— THANK YOU SPONSORS! — • Strawberry.me. Claim your $50 credit and build momentum in your career with Strawberry.me/Awesome• Plaud.ai. Use the code AWESOME and get a discount on your order• LinkedIn Jobs. Post your job for free at linkedin.com/beawesome• Quince. Get free shipping and 365-day returns on your order with Quince.com/AwesomeSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.
This week, we're bringing you an episode from the FT's Behind the Money podcast: Every year, the Financial Times selects the most outstanding business book of the year. For 2023, the top pick is a book about failure. The FT's senior business writer Andrew Hill sits down with the winner, Amy Edmondson, the author of Right Kind of Wrong and “the world's most influential organisational psychologist”. Edmondson's book explores the value in failure, what we can learn from it and what's wrong with Silicon Valley's “fail fast, fail often” mantra.Follow Behind the Money wherever you listen to podcasts.For the full text transcript, visit ted.com/podcasts/fixable-transcriptsFor a chance to give your own TED Talk, fill out the Idea Search Application: ted.com/ideasearch. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Despite its popularity and promise, unfortunately, there are numerous misconceptions about the definition and practice of psychological safety. Inspired by Amy Edmondson's recent article in Harvard Business Review, I dive into the real meaning of psychological safety—it's about cultivating a space where open debates and the free exchange of ideas thrive, not an environment in which conflict or critical feedback is avoided. Discover how focusing on challenging concepts, not individuals, can foster innovation, engagement, and inclusivity within your team. I unpack why conflict and vigorous debate are not only natural but essential components of a psychologically safe environment.But who is responsible for this shared sense of safety? It's not just the leader's job. Drawing from my experiences as an executive coach, I emphasize the importance of bi-directional relationships within teams. Everyone plays a part in creating a safe space. Learn how implementing concrete behaviors and KPIs, while seeking external feedback, can help assess and improve psychological safety. Reflect on your own role and contributions to developing such an environment, not only in your professional sphere but in your personal life as well.What You'll Learn- Debunking common myths about psychological safety.- How to dynamically measure psychological safety within teams.- The impact of psychological safety on innovation and inclusivity.- The importance of shared responsibility in fostering psychological safety.Podcast Timestamps(00:00) – Misconceptions About Psychological Safety(20:13) – Psychological Safety is a Two-Way StreetKEYWORDSPositive Leadership, Psychological Safety, Constructive Conflict, High-Performing Teams, Open Debates, Free Exchange of Ideas, Combatting Misconceptions, Amy Edmondson, Navigating Conflict, Radical Candor, Collective Excellence, CEO Success
We all work in teams, from families, to companies, and everything in between. So what's the secret to doing it better? This hour, TED speakers share surprising strategies for successful teamwork. Guests include activist Hajer Sharief, social psychologist Amy Edmondson and private equity investor Pete Stavros. Original broadcast date: September 20, 2024.TED Radio Hour+ subscribers now get access to bonus episodes, with more ideas from TED speakers and a behind the scenes look with our producers. A Plus subscription also lets you listen to regular episodes (like this one!) without sponsors. Sign-up at: plus.npr.org/tedLearn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy
Everyone makes mistakes. How do we learn from them? Lessons from the classroom, the Air Force, and the world's deadliest infectious disease. SOURCES:Will Coleman, founder and C.E.O. of Alto.Amy Edmondson, professor of leadership management at Harvard Business School.Babak Javid, physician-scientist and associate director of the University of California, San Francisco Center for Tuberculosis.Gary Klein, cognitive psychologist and pioneer in the field of naturalistic decision making.Theresa MacPhail, medical anthropologist and associate professor of science & technology studies at the Stevens Institute of Technology.Roy Shalem, lecturer at Tel Aviv University.Samuel West, curator and founder of The Museum of Failure. RESOURCES:"A Golf Club Urinal, Colgate Lasagna and the Bitter Fight Over the Museum of Failure," by Zusha Elinson (Wall Street Journal, 2025).Right Kind of Wrong: The Science of Failing Well, by Amy Edmondson (2023).“You Think Failure Is Hard? So Is Learning From It,” by Lauren Eskreis-Winkler and Ayelet Fishbach (Perspectives on Psychological Science, 2022).“The Market for R&D Failures,” by Manuel Trajtenberg and Roy Shalem (SSRN, 2010).“Performing a Project Premortem,” by Gary Klein (Harvard Business Review, 2007). EXTRAS:"The Deadliest Disease in Human History," by People I (Mostly) Admire (2025).“How to Succeed at Failing,” series by Freakonomics Radio (2023).“Moncef Slaoui: ‘It's Unfortunate That It Takes a Crisis for This to Happen,'” by People I (Mostly) Admire (2020).
Giving up can be painful. That's why we need to talk about it. Today: stories about glitchy apps, leaky paint cans, broken sculptures — and a quest for the perfect bowl of ramen. SOURCES:John Boykin, website designer and failed paint can re-inventor.Angela Duckworth, host of No Stupid Questions, co-founder of Character Lab, and professor of psychology at the University of Pennsylvania.Amy Edmondson, professor of leadership management at Harvard Business School.Helen Fisher, former senior research fellow at The Kinsey Institute and former chief science advisor to Match.com.Eric von Hippel, professor of technological innovation at M.I.T.'s Sloan School of Management.Jill Hoffman, founder and C.E.O. of Path 2 Flight.Gary Klein, cognitive psychologist and pioneer in the field of naturalistic decision making.Steve Levitt, host of People I (Mostly) Admire, co-author of the Freakonomics books, and professor of economics at the University of Chicago.Joseph O'Connell, artist.Mike Ridgeman, government affairs manager at the Wisconsin Bike Fed.Melanie Stefan, professor of physiology at Medical School Berlin.Travis Thul, vice president for Student Success and Engagement at Minnesota State University, Mankato. RESOURCES:“Data Snapshot: Tenure and Contingency in US Higher Education,” by Glenn Colby (American Association of University Professors, 2023).Grit: The Power of Passion and Perseverance, by Angela Duckworth (2016).“Entrepreneurship and the U.S. Economy,” by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (2016).“A C.V. of Failures,” by Melanie Stefan (Nature, 2010).Ramen Now! official website. EXTRAS: “How to Succeed at Failing,” series by Freakonomics Radio (2023).“Annie Duke Thinks You Should Quit,” by People I (Mostly) Admire (2022).“How Do You Know When It's Time to Quit?” by No Stupid Questions (2020).“Honey, I Grew the Economy,” by Freakonomics Radio (2019).“The Upside of Quitting,” by Freakonomics Radio (2011).
In medicine, failure can be catastrophic. It can also produce discoveries that save millions of lives. Tales from the front line, the lab, and the I.T. department. SOURCES:Amy Edmondson, professor of leadership management at Harvard Business School.Carole Hemmelgarn, co-founder of Patients for Patient Safety U.S. and director of the Clinical Quality, Safety & Leadership Master's program at Georgetown University.Gary Klein, cognitive psychologist and pioneer in the field of naturalistic decision making.Robert Langer, institute professor and head of the Langer Lab at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.John Van Reenen, professor at the London School of Economics. RESOURCES:Right Kind of Wrong: The Science of Failing Well, by Amy Edmondson (2023).“Reconsidering the Application of Systems Thinking in Healthcare: The RaDonda Vaught Case,” by Connor Lusk, Elise DeForest, Gabriel Segarra, David M. Neyens, James H. Abernathy III, and Ken Catchpole (British Journal of Anaesthesia, 2022)."Estimates of preventable hospital deaths are too high, new study shows," by Bill Hathaway (Yale News, 2020).“Dispelling the Myth That Organizations Learn From Failure,” by Jeffrey Ray (SSRN, 2016).“A New, Evidence-Based Estimate of Patient Harms Associated With Hospital Care,” by John T. James (Journal of Patient Safety, 2013).To Err is Human: Building a Safer Health System, by the National Academy of Sciences (1999).“Polymers for the Sustained Release of Proteins and Other Macromolecules,” by Robert Langer and Judah Folkman (Nature, 1976).The Innovation and Diffusion Podcast, by John Van Reenen and Ruveyda Gozen. EXTRAS:"The Curious, Brilliant, Vanishing Mr. Feynman," series by Freakonomics Radio (2024).“Will a Covid-19 Vaccine Change the Future of Medical Research?” by Freakonomics Radio (2020).“Bad Medicine, Part 3: Death by Diagnosis,” by Freakonomics Radio (2016).
We tend to think of tragedies as a single terrible moment, rather than the result of multiple bad decisions. Can this pattern be reversed? We try — with stories about wildfires, school shootings, and love. SOURCES:Amy Edmondson, professor of leadership management at Harvard Business School.Helen Fisher, former senior research fellow at The Kinsey Institute and former chief science advisor to Match.com.Ed Galea, founding director of the Fire Safety Engineering Group at the University of Greenwich.Gary Klein, cognitive psychologist and pioneer in the field of naturalistic decision making.David Riedman, founder of the K-12 School Shooting Database.Aaron Stark, head cashier at Lowe's and keynote speaker.John Van Reenen, professor at the London School of Economics. RESOURCES:"Ethan Crumbley: Parents of Michigan school gunman sentenced to at least 10 years," by Brandon Drenon (New York Times, 2024).Right Kind of Wrong: The Science of Failing Well, by Amy Edmondson (2023)."How Fire Turned Lahaina Into a Death Trap," by Nicholas Bogel-Burroughs, Serge F. Kovaleski, Shawn Hubler, and Riley Mellen (The New York Times, 2023).The Violence Project: How to Stop a Mass Shooting Epidemic, by Jillian Peterson and James Densley (2021)."I Was Almost A School Shooter," by Aaron Stark (TEDxBoulder, 2018). EXTRAS: "Is Perfectionism Ruining Your Life?" by People I (Mostly) Admire (2023)."Why Did You Marry That Person?" by Freakonomics Radio (2022)."What Do We Really Learn From Failure?" by No Stupid Questions (2021)."How to Fail Like a Pro," by Freakonomics Radio (2019)."Failure Is Your Friend," by Freakonomics Radio (2014).
Taavet Hinrikus, the co-founder of Wise, one of the world's biggest fintech firms, gives advice on forming and running teams. Andrew Palmer learns the secrets of teamwork in Afghanistan, Mumbai and Silicon Valley; and Amy Edmondson of Harvard Business School explains how to foster psychological safety.Boss Class season one is free for a limited time. Season two will appear weekly starting May 12th. To hear new episodes, subscribe to Economist Podcasts+. https://subscribenow.economist.com/podcasts-plusIf you're already a subscriber to The Economist, you have full access to all our shows as part of your subscription. For more information about how to access Economist Podcasts+, please visit our FAQs page or watch our video explaining how to link your account. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.