Podcast appearances and mentions of zach mercurio

What if the secret to sustainable performance and genuine employee engagement wasn't another program or initiative, but something far simpler—and infinitely more powerful? In this episode of UNSCRIPTED, host Sarah Nicastro sits down with Zach Mercurio, researcher with a Ph.D. in organizational learning, performance, and change; leadership development facilitator specializing in purposeful leadership, mattering, and meaningful work; and author of The Power of Mattering. They explore why command-and-control leadership is fundamentally incompatible with the innovation and loyalty leaders claim to want and Zach sheds light on what actually works.

What makes someone truly care about their work, their team, or even you? In this episode, I sit down with Zach Mercurio, one of the world's leading experts on the science of "mattering." We unpack why nothing can truly matter to someone unless they first feel that they matter to you — and how that insight can transform relationships, leadership, and client trust. Zach shares fascinating research, relatable stories, and practical scripts for showing others that they're seen, heard, and valued in both professional and personal settings. We dig deep into the "why" behind mattering and move into the "how" with clear, repeatable steps you can use to create more meaningful connections in every interaction. From client relationships to internal teams, you'll walk away with concrete ways to build trust, loyalty, and genuine engagement that scales. Topics We Cover in This Episode:    Why being a "good person" isn't enough to make people feel cared for The three key practices of mattering — noticing, affirming, and needing How small interactions shape trust and loyalty more than big gestures Practical questions that make others feel seen and heard instantly Why documenting details can help you build stronger relationships at scale How to give feedback that inspires change instead of resistance The psychology behind making people feel indispensable How "co-creating" with clients or colleagues increases buy-in and results   If you're ready to level up your relational skills and make every connection count, don't miss this one. Zach's frameworks are simple, science-backed, and deeply human — and they'll change the way you lead, sell, and communicate. Check out his book The Power of Mattering and visit thepowerofmattering.com for free self-assessments and templates. Then tune in and start practicing the small moments that make the biggest difference.   Resources Mentioned: Connect with Zach on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zachmercurio/ Visit Zach's Website: https://www.zachmercurio.com/the-power-of-mattering/ Order your copy of Give to Grow Get the Supplemental materials for Give to Grow Get a copy of your GrowBIG Playbook today!  

What makes someone truly care about their work, their team, or even you? In this episode, I sit down with Zach Mercurio, one of the world's leading experts on the science of "mattering." We unpack why nothing can truly matter to someone unless they first feel that they matter to you — and how that insight can transform relationships, leadership, and client trust. Zach shares fascinating research, relatable stories, and practical scripts for showing others that they're seen, heard, and valued in both professional and personal settings. We dig deep into the "why" behind mattering and move into the "how" with clear, repeatable steps you can use to create more meaningful connections in every interaction. From client relationships to internal teams, you'll walk away with concrete ways to build trust, loyalty, and genuine engagement that scales. Topics We Cover in This Episode:    Why being a "good person" isn't enough to make people feel cared for The three key practices of mattering — noticing, affirming, and needing How small interactions shape trust and loyalty more than big gestures Practical questions that make others feel seen and heard instantly Why documenting details can help you build stronger relationships at scale How to give feedback that inspires change instead of resistance The psychology behind making people feel indispensable How "co-creating" with clients or colleagues increases buy-in and results   If you're ready to level up your relational skills and make every connection count, don't miss this one. Zach's frameworks are simple, science-backed, and deeply human — and they'll change the way you lead, sell, and communicate. Check out his book The Power of Mattering and visit thepowerofmattering.com for free self-assessments and templates. Then tune in and start practicing the small moments that make the biggest difference.   Resources Mentioned: Connect with Zach on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zachmercurio/ Visit Zach's Website: https://www.zachmercurio.com/the-power-of-mattering/ Order your copy of Give to Grow Get the Supplemental materials for Give to Grow Get a copy of your GrowBIG Playbook today!  

What makes someone truly care about their work, their team, or even you? In this episode, I sit down with Zach Mercurio, one of the world's leading experts on the science of "mattering." We unpack why nothing can truly matter to someone unless they first feel that they matter to you — and how that insight can transform relationships, leadership, and client trust. Zach shares fascinating research, relatable stories, and practical scripts for showing others that they're seen, heard, and valued in both professional and personal settings. We dig deep into the "why" behind mattering and move into the "how" with clear, repeatable steps you can use to create more meaningful connections in every interaction. From client relationships to internal teams, you'll walk away with concrete ways to build trust, loyalty, and genuine engagement that scales. Topics We Cover in This Episode:    Why being a "good person" isn't enough to make people feel cared for The three key practices of mattering — noticing, affirming, and needing How small interactions shape trust and loyalty more than big gestures Practical questions that make others feel seen and heard instantly Why documenting details can help you build stronger relationships at scale How to give feedback that inspires change instead of resistance The psychology behind making people feel indispensable How "co-creating" with clients or colleagues increases buy-in and results   If you're ready to level up your relational skills and make every connection count, don't miss this one. Zach's frameworks are simple, science-backed, and deeply human — and they'll change the way you lead, sell, and communicate. Check out his book The Power of Mattering and visit thepowerofmattering.com for free self-assessments and templates. Then tune in and start practicing the small moments that make the biggest difference.   Resources Mentioned: Connect with Zach on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zachmercurio/ Visit Zach's Website: https://www.zachmercurio.com/the-power-of-mattering/ Order your copy of Give to Grow Get the Supplemental materials for Give to Grow Get a copy of your GrowBIG Playbook today!  

We all crave to be seen, valued, and needed. And yet, so many people in today's workplaces feel invisible. In this deeply human conversation, Janet talks with Dr. Zach Mercurio, author of The Power of Mattering, about why the greatest crisis in leadership isn't disengagement or burnout, it's a mattering deficit. Zach shares research-backed insights on how leaders can help others feel significant through small, intentional interactions that affirm their unique value. You'll learn how to transform your daily leadership moments into acts that regenerate human energy, deepen connection, and create cultures where people truly thrive.In this episode:✅ Why disengagement isn't the real problem—it's the lack of mattering✅ How leaders can help others feel seen, heard, and valued✅ The key difference between appreciation, recognition, and affirmation✅ Why human energy is the leading indicator of all results✅ How “leaders go first” in creating cultures of connection✅ Practical ways to make people feel noticed, affirmed, and needed✅ The dangers of social skill decay in an age of digital communication✅ Why trust—not technology—is the most valuable leadership currency✅ How to close the gap between good intentions and meaningful actionResources:The Power of Mattering by Zach MercurioConnect with Zack:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zachmercurio Website: http://www.zachmercurio.com/ About Janet Ioli:Janet Ioli is a globally recognized executive advisor, coach, and leadership expert with over 25 years of experience developing leaders in Fortune 100 companies and global organizations.She created The Inner Edge—a framework, a movement, and a message that flips leadership from mere success performance to presence; from ego to soul. Through her keynotes, podcast, and programs, Janet helps high-achievers find the one thing that changes everything: the mastery within.Her approach redefines leadership presence—not as polish or tactics, but as the inner steadiness people feel from you and the positive imprint you leave on individuals and organizations.Connect with Janet Ioli:Website: janetioli.comLinkedin: Janet IoliInstagram: @leadershipcoachjanetIf you want to become more grounded, confident, and aligned with your deeper values in just 21 days, check out Janet Ioli's book Less Ego, More Soul: A Modern Reinvention Guide for Women. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts. Select “Listen in Apple Podcasts,” then choose the “Ratings & Reviews” tab to share what you think. Produced by Ideablossoms

What if the hardest leadership skills are the most human ones? We pull together a month of conversations and share a playbook for leading with presence, purpose, and care—so people don't just survive at work, they come alive. From micro moments that create mattering, to authentic leadership that fits like your own skin, to change communication that removes uncertainty, to feedback that is firm and compassionate, the thread is clear: people follow care, not titles.We start with the power of mattering inspired by Zach Mercurio: making people feel seen, heard, valued, and needed. You'll hear practical ways to turn small interactions into a performance flywheel, including the underrated art of the second impression. Then we explore Matt Poepsel's path from imitation to authenticity, using a leadership credo and a values-behavior audit to align mission accomplishment with employee welfare. Expect takeaways for coaching new managers so they don't copy past mistakes but build a style they can sustain.We dig into change leadership with John Martinka's reminder that during mergers and acquisitions, the real asset is people. Learn how to communicate early, honest, and often; reframe fear into opportunity; and fill the rumor vacuum with clarity and hope. Finally, Jeff Hancher shows how feedback, delivered with care, transforms potential. We unpack the FEAR traps that block tough conversations and lay out a simple, repeatable approach to candid coaching that builds trust and accelerates growth.Walk away with three anchoring questions: who needs to hear they matter, how will you show up as your authentic self, and which honest conversation will you have today. If the ideas sparked something, tap follow, share this with a leader who needs it, and leave a quick review telling us which practice you'll try first.Send us a textSupport the show✅ Follow The Leadership Project on your favourite podcast platform and listen to a new episode every week!

Zach Mercurio is a researcher, and optimist instructor who specializes in purposeful leadership and meaningful work. He is the author of "The Power of Mattering: How Leaders Can Create a Culture of Significance," that reveals the psychological foundation that drives human energy and performance in organizations. Zach addresses why 60% of employees don't feel cared for at work and how this creates a mattering deficit leading to quiet quitting or toxic behaviors. He discusses the Optimism course he created with Simon Sinek, which focuses on developing human skills that show people their significance so they believe they can improve any situation. Zach reveals the three essential dimensions people need: feeling noticed (seen and heard), affirmed (their uniqueness makes a difference), and needed (relied upon and indispensable). He explains how organizations can maintain purpose as "the invisible leader" despite quarterly pressures, emphasizing that people won't contribute to bigger purposes until they first believe they're worthy of having one. Listen to discover why the age of AI makes human connection skills irreplaceable and learn the counterintuitive truth that people must feel valued before they can add value. You can find episode 483 on YouTube, or wherever you get your podcasts! Watch this Episode on YouTube | Zach Mercurio on People Must Feel Valued Before They Can Add Value https://bit.ly/TLP-483 Key Takeaways [05:59] Zach defines mattering as feeling significant through being valued and adding unique value. [08:05] Zach explains human energy comes from knowing we matter, with research showing lower cortisol in those who feel significant. [11:15] Zach describes the "mattering wheel" where feeling valued builds confidence to add value. [13:56] Zach notes 40% of feedback fails because people don't feel cared for by the giver. [18:54] Zach outlines "wise feedback": express belief, reaffirm capabilities, offer support. [22:12] Zach defines optimism as believing you can improve moments and explains how digital communication created human skills gaps. [29:22] Zach emphasizes only humans take moral responsibility while noting only 40% feel cared for at work. [33:22] Zach positions matter as a prerequisite to purpose - people must feel cared for before caring about work. [36:12] Zach advises asking "When you feel you matter to me, what am I doing?" and outlines three practices: noticed, affirmed, needed. [38:08] Zach states "hurry and care cannot coexist" and suggests using meetings for relationships, not information exchange. [42:17] Zach explains these "soft" skills need rigorous practice as attention spans dropped to 47 seconds and leadership requires separate human skills. [46:19] Zach challenges leaders to master human skills because leadership is a separate occupation requiring separate skills. [48:20] And remember…"The business of business is relationships; the business of life is human connection." - Robin S. Sharma Quotable Quotes "It's almost impossible for anything to matter to someone who doesn't first believe that they matter." "All human energy is an outcome of knowing that we matter." "The ultimate energizer is knowing that you and your life and your work are worthy of your energy." "We don't build confidence on our own. We build true confidence when we know someone has our back." "People need to be valued to add value." "Feeling valued gives us the confidence we need to add value. The more we add value, the more we see the evidence of our significance, the more we feel valued." "Hurry and care cannot coexist." "When leaders can't connect, they usually try to control. We try to control what we don't understand." "Loneliness is not the outcome of being alone. Loneliness is the outcome of feeling that you don't matter." "It's the quality of the interaction that matters, not the quantity when it comes to loneliness." "People will not care until they feel cared for." "Leadership is a separate occupation. It is a separate occupation that requires a separate set of skills." "Optimism is the belief that the future can be better and that I have what it takes to make it better." "AI will take your job if you do not master the human skills to cultivate trust and care." "The heart of leadership is to inspire." "Feedback without a relationship comes across as aggression." These are the books mentioned in this episode Resources Mentioned The Leadership Podcast | theleadershippodcast.com Sponsored by | www.darley.com Rafti Advisors. LLC | www.raftiadvisors.com Self-Reliant Leadership. LLC | selfreliantleadership.com Zach Mercurio Website | www.zachmercurio.com Zach Mercurio Facebook | www.facebook.com/ZMercurio Zach Mercurio LinkedIn | www.linkedin.com/in/zachmercurio Zach Mercurio Instagram | @zachmercurio Essential Skills to Create a Culture of Mattering - Zach Mercurio

Only 30% of people feel like someone at work cares for them as a person. The lowest it's ever been.Zach Mercurio refers to this as a mattering deficit. And you can't solve it with perks, programs, or engagement initiatives. You can only solve it through daily interactions where people feel genuinely cared for.In this conversation, Zach breaks down the difference between caring about people (from a distance) and caring for people (getting close enough actually to understand them), why mattering is a survival instinct, and his framework for making people feel significant: noticing, affirming, and needing.This one's for every leader who's wondering why their team still feels disconnected despite all the programs they've implemented.Zach Mercurio is a researcher, speaker, and author of "The Power of Mattering: How Leaders Can Create a Culture of Significance." He holds a PhD in organisational learning, performance, and change and serves as one of Simon Sinek's Optimist Instructors.BETTER@WORK PODCASTNew episodes every Thursday

In this episode of The WorkWell Podcast™, Jen Fisher speaks with Zach Mercurio, author of "The Power of Mattering: How Leaders Can Create a Culture of Significance." Despite billions invested in engagement programs and wellbeing initiatives, employees are more disengaged than ever—and the problem isn't what most leaders think. This conversation reveals why mattering can't be addressed through programs and perks, and what leaders must do differently at the interaction level to help people feel truly seen, valued, and significant.Episode Highlights:Why engagement is at its lowest point in a decade despite $2 billion invested in programsThe difference between mattering, belonging, and inclusion—and why mattering is what's missingHow we've lost the skills to care for each other after 25 years of digital communicationThe "sprinkler issues" that silently kill motivation and create learned helplessnessWhy high performers and frontline workers are most at risk of feeling invisibleThe three practices that help people feel significant: noticing, affirming, and showing they're neededWhy you can't give effective feedback to someone who doesn't first feel that they matter to youHow showing others they matter actually regenerates your own sense of significanceQuotable Moment"You don't show people that they matter in spite of their low performance. You show people that they matter so that you can regenerate their energy and confidence to perform well." - Zach MercurioLyra Lens:Sarah Haggerty, Clinical Psychologist and Neuroscientist at Lyra Health, explores the practical skills managers need to notice when someone's struggling and how to check in appropriately. She also breaks down the concept of "10% more depth" in workplace relationships.Resources:This episode of The WorkWell Podcast™ is made possible by Lyra Health, a premier global workforce mental health solution. Learn more at Lyrahealth.com/workwell.

In this episode of The WorkWell Podcast™, Jen Fisher speaks with Zach Mercurio, author of "The Power of Mattering: How Leaders Can Create a Culture of Significance." Despite billions invested in engagement programs and wellbeing initiatives, employees are more disengaged than ever—and the problem isn't what most leaders think. This conversation reveals why mattering can't be addressed through programs and perks, and what leaders must do differently at the interaction level to help people feel truly seen, valued, and significant.Episode Highlights:Why engagement is at its lowest point in a decade despite $2 billion invested in programsThe difference between mattering, belonging, and inclusion—and why mattering is what's missingHow we've lost the skills to care for each other after 25 years of digital communicationThe "sprinkler issues" that silently kill motivation and create learned helplessnessWhy high performers and frontline workers are most at risk of feeling invisibleThe three practices that help people feel significant: noticing, affirming, and showing they're neededWhy you can't give effective feedback to someone who doesn't first feel that they matter to youHow showing others they matter actually regenerates your own sense of significanceQuotable Moment"You don't show people that they matter in spite of their low performance. You show people that they matter so that you can regenerate their energy and confidence to perform well." - Zach MercurioLyra Lens:Sarah Haggerty, Clinical Psychologist and Neuroscientist at Lyra Health, explores the practical skills managers need to notice when someone's struggling and how to check in appropriately. She also breaks down the concept of "10% more depth" in workplace relationships.Resources:This episode of The WorkWell Podcast™ is made possible by Lyra Health, a premier global workforce mental health solution. Learn more at Lyrahealth.com/workwell.

What if the key to motivation and well-being isn't finding your purpose, but first believing you're worthy of having one? Zach Mercurio returns to The Leadership Project with a powerful insight: “It is almost impossible for anything to matter to someone who doesn't first believe that they matter.” He explains why many self-help books and engagement programs fall short — because they overlook the human need to matter and feel significant to others.In his new book The Power of Mattering, Zach reveals how feeling seen, valued, and needed drives our sense of purpose. When we feel we matter, we gain the confidence to add value — creating a cycle where feeling valued leads to contributing more. Yet in today's rushed, digital world, our ability to connect deeply has faded. As Zach says, “Hurry and care cannot coexist.”The solution lies in three simple habits: noticing others, affirming their impact, and needing them. These small acts cost nothing but can transform how people experience their worth. Zach challenges leaders to ask, “When you feel that you matter to me, what am I doing?” — and to do more of it. Because when people feel they matter, they do things that matter.

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.

How do we break free from old programming and step into conscious leadership?In this episode of the Leadership Launchpad Podcast, hosts Susan Hobson and Tracey Allen are joined by TedX speaker and best selling author Matt Zemon, who shares why he believes that psychedelics are catalysts, not cures; opening the door to healing trauma, quieting shame and guilt, unlocking creativity, curiosity, courage, empowerment, adaptability and remembering our interconnectedness.We explore how integration and neuroplasticity create lasting change, why most leadership training fails without depth, and how leaders can adapt in an era of AI and disruption.From challenging workaholism and striving to embracing presence, balance, and wholeness, this conversation explores how conscious leadership expands our awareness, and helps us live fulfilling lives by catalyzing our potential. ✨ If you're a high achiever, entrepreneur, or corporate  leader seeking to lead with clarity and alignment, this dialogue is for you.Watch our previous discussion with Matt - Maximizing Impact with Richard Schwartz, Wesley Eugene, Zach Mercurio, Matt Zemon, and David Irvinehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XPXX_2XAT8g&feature=youtu.beThe SHOCKING Truth About Psychedelics for Everyone https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_6090H5BNbA

What happens when you realize you matter? In this episode, Kevin talks with Zach Mercurio about the often-overlooked human need to feel important and how leaders at all levels can foster this through everyday interactions. Zach explains how his early research with custodial staff showed that small, intentional moments—like being seen, acknowledged, and validated—are the building blocks of meaning at work. These "moments of mattering," he says, aren't about big gestures but about real human connection. Kevin and Zach also explore the link between mattering and trust, the challenge of staying focused in today's distracted world, and how leaders can create cultures where everyone feels valued and essential. Listen For 00:00 Introduction 00:35 How to Join the Podcast Live 01:14 About Zach Mercurio 02:15 Welcome Zach 02:55 Why Mattering Matters 04:17 Defining Moments of Mattering 05:03 Discovering the Concept of Mattering 06:14 Leadership Happens in Moments 07:04 Human Interaction vs Symbols of Value 08:09 Why Engagement Programs Fall Short 09:06 The Three-Part Framework of Mattering 10:14 Noticing vs Knowing 11:15 Appreciation vs Affirmation 12:33 Feeling Needed at Work 13:03 The Power of If It Wasn't for You 15:30 Turning Good Intentions into Practice 16:15 Mindset Skillset Habitset 17:19 Translating Ideas into Real-World Action 18:18 The Myth of Being Too Busy 20:11 Relearning the Skills of Connection 21:13 Tech and the Loss of Human Interaction 22:00 Not Soft Skills Essential Skills 22:20 The Best Question a Leader Can Ask 23:00 You Don't Need Permission to Lead This Way 25:02 You Always Have Interactional Power 26:06 Culture is Non-directional 27:06 Trust Begins with Care 28:00 The Human Advantage in the Age of AI 29:08 Belonging vs Inclusion vs Mattering 30:36 Where to Start Building Mattering 31:33 What Zach Does for Fun 31:58 What Zach is Reading 33:00 Final Thoughts and How to Connect 35:12 Your Call to Action 36:10 Wrap-Up Zach's Story: Zach Mercurio is the author of The Power of Mattering: How Leaders Can Create a Culture of Significance. He is a researcher, leadership development facilitator, and speaker specializing in purposeful leadership, mattering, and meaningful work. Zach advises leaders in organizations worldwide on practices for building cultures that promote well-being, motivation, and performance. He holds a Ph.D. in organizational learning, performance, and change from Colorado State University, where he serves as a senior fellow at the Center for Meaning and Purpose and as an instructor in the Organizational Learning, Performance, and Change program. This Episode is brought to you by... Flexible Leadership is every leader's guide to greater success in a world of increasing complexity and chaos.  Book Recommendations The Power of Mattering: How Leaders Can Create a Culture of Significance by Zach Mercurio Ways of Being by James Bridle Southern Reach Trilogy 3 Books Collection Set By Jeff VanderMeer (Annihilation, Authority, Acceptance) by Jeff VanderMeer  Like this? Building a Powerful Culture with Patty McCord Building and Sustaining a Culture of Excellence with Kyle McDowell Creating a Work Culture Everyone Wants with Jennifer Moss Join Our Community If you want to view our live podcast episodes, hear about new releases, or chat with others who enjoy this podcast join one of our communities below. Join the Facebook Group Join the LinkedIn Group   Leave a Review If you liked this conversation, we'd be thrilled if you'd let others know by leaving a review on Apple Podcasts. Here's a quick guide for posting a review. Review on Apple: https://remarkablepodcast.com/itunes    Podcast Better! Sign up with Libsyn and get up to 2 months free! Use promo code: RLP  

Can small, meaningful interactions transform leadership and organizational success? Join us as we explore this fascinating question with Zach Mercurio, an authority in purposeful leadership and positive organizational psychology. Through Zach's compelling research, we uncover the concept of "mattering" in the workplace, a crucial element often overlooked amidst traditional rewards like pay raises and promotions. As employees grapple with feelings of invisibility, Zach introduces the idea of a "mattering deficit" and shares his insights on how leaders can create cultures where every team member feels valued and significant, elevating both well-being and performance.Our conversation with Zach also explores the profound impact of genuine care and connection in leadership. We address the distinction between caring about and caring for team members, emphasizing the importance of intentionality in leaders' actions. Unconscious signals can undermine employees' sense of mattering, and Zach provides practical strategies to ensure leaders' good intentions translate into meaningful daily practices. From understanding the role of "soft skills" to recognizing the subtle biases that can lead to complacency, we explore ways to build a supportive environment that fosters true belonging.Finally, we touch upon the critical role of noticing and affirming those we rely on at work. By moving beyond transactional interactions to transformational ones, leaders can create a more inclusive atmosphere. We share techniques like the green, yellow, red check-in to gauge emotional states and Carl Rogers' active listening principles, vital for building meaningful relationships. As we consider the intersection of AI and human connection, this episode promises a thought-provoking discussion on how recognizing and valuing each other can empower teams and, ultimately, transform organizations.What You'll Learn- The critical nuances between caring about and caring for your team- Shifting from transactional to transformational interactions- The significance of emotional connections in communication and decision-making- The paradox of leadership: empowering teams by letting go- The vital role of soft skills and the intersection of AI and human connectionPodcast Timestamps(00:03) – The Power of Mattering (in Leadership)(12:14) - The Importance of Caring for Others(18:36) – What It Truly Means to Notice Someone(27:03) –Small Gestures Can Build Deep Emotional Connections(38:03) – How to Create Psychological Safety(48:02) - Empowering Leadership Through Relinquishing Control(54:29) - Mattering in an AI WorldKEYWORDSPositive Leadership, The Power of Mattering, Maximizing Engagement, Enhancing Well-being, A Culture of Caring, Practicing Empathy, Soft Skills Drive Hard Results, Deep Emotional Connections, Effective Communication, Building Trust, The Perils of Command and Control, Increasing Human Connection, Relational Economy, Creativity, CEO Success

When people feel seen, heard, and needed at work, everything shifts. Motivation, performance, retention and well-being all improve. Too often that sense of significance is missing, and the cost to teams and organizations is massive.In this episode, we talk with Zach Mercurio, author of The Power of Mattering, about how leaders can create cultures where people genuinely feel valued. We explore:- The difference between mattering, belonging, and self-esteem- What happens when people feel invisible at work and how to prevent it- The everyday practices leaders can use to help people feel significant - Why in the age of AI, our ability to care for one another will be the most essential skill"Mattering happens through interactions, not through awards, perks or programs. Our next great leadership act is in our next interaction." - Zach MercurioPrefer video? Watch on YouTube or Spotify.Check out Zach's book, as well as free a self-assessment and templates at zachmercurio.com. Follow Unserious in your podcast app, at unserious.com, and on Instagram and Threads at @unserious.fun.

In this episode of Workday Playdate, Erin sits down with Dr. Zach Mercurio—researcher, author, and leading voice on meaningful work—to unpack a quiet crisis in today's workplaces: anti-mattering. If you've ever felt invisible at work or noticed your team going through the motions, this episode will give you the language and tools to change that. Instead of brushing past the small moments, Dr. Mercurio shows how everyday interactions shape whether people feel seen, valued, and significant. With research-backed insights and practical strategies, you'll learn how to build psychological safety, boost employee engagement, and create a culture where everyone knows they matter. Inside This Episode: What Is Anti-Mattering? Spot the subtle (and sometimes toxic) signals that leave employees feeling invisible. The Primal Need to Matter: Why being seen, heard, and valued drives everything from morale to performance. Psychological Safety in Practice: How leaders can create environments that invite risk-taking and authentic expression. The Power of Micro-Moments: Small, intentional acts that turn disengagement into dedication. Skills for Real Connection: The authentic leadership traits that make significance stick. Who This Episode Is For: Leaders and managers who want to foster real connection, not just compliance. Teams struggling with disengagement, low morale, or quiet quitting. Anyone curious about how to build a workplace culture where people want to show up and contribute. Tune in to learn how to make mattering a leadership habit. And if you know someone who's ready to shift their culture from invisible to invaluable, share this episode with them. Feeling awkward, overthinking your small talk, or wondering if you should've just stayed home? Grab our free Networking Without Feeling Weird toolkit. It's your two-part confidence boost for before and during the event, packed with simple, human strategies that help you walk in clear, grounded, and ready to connect. Download it now and turn “Ugh, networking…” into “That was actually… fun?”   No, You Hang Up First (Let's Keep Connecting) Did today's episode resonate with you? Leave us a review sharing your favorite insight and we'll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader's Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. Have another question that we can answer? Leave us a Speakpipe audio clip and we'll answer it in an upcoming episode. Don't want to miss another episode? If you're a Spotify listener, find our show here and click “Follow.” If you're an Apple Podcast listener, click here and make sure to hit “+Follow.” Want access to a bunch of free resources for your work life? This is your personal jackpot that gives you access to the frameworks that help us thrive both personally and professionally. Whether you're trying to improve your daily routine, flesh out an idea that you've had for quite some time, or want to add more play into your day - these resources have got your back. Want 2 emails a week from us? One with a quick tip you can implement right away to enhance your personal and/or professional lives & one of our famous F.A.I.L. Fourward Friday newsletters? Subscribe here. Connect with Dr. Zach Mercurio Zach's LinkedIn Zach's website Zach's book, The Invisible Leader Zach's book, The Power of Mattering Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! Erin's website Erin's Instagram Erin's TikTok Erin's LinkedIn improve it!'s website improve it!'s Instagram

Good things happen when people know they matter. Engagement and performance increase, which then motivates people to stay. In addition, they're happier, which, makes work more enjoyable for everyone.   But creating this kind of workplace doesn't happen by accident. It requires that leaders consistently apply a set of specific skills focused on these outcomes. That's why I wanted to talk to Zach Mercurio, author of the book The Power of Mattering: How Leaders Can Create a Culture of Significance. Zach holds a PhD in organizational learning, performance, and change. He advises leaders on practices for building cultures that promote well-being, motivation, and high performance. His previous book is The Invisible Leader. Episode Links Great Leaders Make People Feel Noticed The Power of Mattering at Work To Become a Better Leader, Change the Way You See People Interview with Adam Galinsky on what great leaders do – author of Inspire The Team Learn more about host, Gayle Allen, and producer, Rob Mancabelli, here. Support the Podcast If you like the show, please rate and review it on iTunes or wherever you subscribe, and tell a friend or family member about the show. Subscribe Click here and then scroll down to see a sample of sites where you can subscribe.

What if true recognition at work wasn't about awards or bonuses, but about helping people feel they genuinely matter every single day? In this episode, Dr. Zach Mercurio joins Teri Schmidt to reveal why small, everyday interactions, not flashy programs, are the secret sauce behind thriving, high-performing teams. Together, they unpack the science of “mattering,” practical leadership skills you can use today, and why AI will never replace the power of human connection at work. Resources:Zach's website (with free resources, including a self-assessment)Connect with Zach on LinkedIn________________________If you're tired of avoiding tough conversations or regretting how you handled them, the Courageous Conversations Leadership Sprint is for you. This four-week, small-group coaching experience starting in October uses LEGO® SERIOUS PLAY®, unlocking creative new perspectives and approaches to difficult conversations.Learn more and reserve your spot at https://www.strongleadersserve.com/buildConnect on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/teri-m-schmidt/Get 1-on-1 leadership support from Teri here: https://www.strongleadersserve.com/coachingSet up an intro call with Teri: https://calendly.com/terischmidt/discoverycall

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.

Dr. Zach Mercurio discusses his new book The Power of Mattering: How Leaders Can Create a Culture of Significance. Zach comes from student affairs roots and focuses now on significance, meaning, purpose, and mattering at work. He describes how mattering differs from belonging and inclusion and how much mattering matters. He also shares a practical framework for cultivating mattering through three actionable practices: noticing, affirming, and needing.

In this episode, Zach Mercurio—researcher, speaker, and expert on purposeful leadership—shares why the most powerful leaders aren't always the loudest or most visible. They're the ones who help others feel seen, heard, and valued.Zach introduces the concept of “mattering” as a core human need and explains how a lack of it is contributing to disconnection in our workplaces, schools, and communities. Through real-world insights and practical takeaways, he shows how anyone can practice the leadership skill of helping others feel like they truly matter.You'll learn why shifting from achievement to contribution can strengthen your purpose, how to build meaningful relationships that combat loneliness, and what it takes to create environments where people thrive.LEARN MORE:> > ZachMercurio.com The Invisible Leader: Transform Your Life, Work, and Organization with the Power of Authentic Purpose (https://www.amazon.com/Invisible-Leader-Transform-Organization-Authentic/dp/1599328518)The Power of Mattering: How Leaders Can Create a Culture of Significance (https://www.amazon.com/Power-Mattering-Leaders-Culture-Significance/dp/B0D8XMWCLJ)WE WANT TO HEAR FROM YOU:> > We're trying out a shorter format for Motivational Mondays! Take our quick 2-minute survey to let us know what you think. (http://nsls.org/mm-survey)

Almost ten years ago, our CEO, Bob Chapman's book, Everybody Matters was released. It is a documentation of the lessons Bob and Barry-Wehmiller have learned along our journey. Among the most important insights we gained: Everybody wants to know that who they are and what they do matters. Mattering is a term that is getting more and more attention lately. A while back, you may remember episodes of our podcast that featured our friend Jennifer Wallace, who has written a book on mattering and children. And separately, Professor Isaac Prilleltensky, who has done a lot of research on the subject. On his episode, Dr. Prilleltensky said that mattering consists of feeling valued and adding value. On today's podcast, we're going to have a discussion about mattering with Zach Mercurio, a researcher, author, and speaker specializing in purposeful leadership, mattering, meaningful work, and positive organizational psychology. He has a new book titled: The Power of Mattering, How Leaders Can Create a Culture of Significance.  Barry-Wehmiller and Bob Chapman are featured in a chapter in Zach's book, who made this observation based on his research that included BW: How people make meaning in their jobs inevitably affects how they make meaning in life. It's an observation that aligns alongside what we say at the top of the podcast: the way we lead impacts the way people live. Zach and I talk about a number of mattering-related things on this episode. Including how mattering relates to recognition and celebration. That the skills of helping people feel like they matter can be taught. We talk about mattering as it relates to leadership. And we talk about how mattering can be a solution to the crisises of our time. But we start out talking about how conversation about mattering has come to the forefront, specifically as people start to realize they don't feel like they matter.

This week on the Seeds of Success Podcast Dottie & Orly discuss the critical importance of making employees feel valued and recognized in the workplace. They explore insights from the book 'The Power of Mattering' by Zach Mercurio, emphasizing how feeling valued can significantly impact employee engagement and retention.

Zach Mercurio joins us to discuss the power of mattering—why it's a foundational human need and how it can be cultivated through small but meaningful interactions. From leadership strategies to personal stories, we explore how feeling seen, heard, and valued changes everything. Topics [0:00] Intro and Speed Round with Zach Mercurio [3:31] Why Mattering Matters [11:29] Purpose, Meaning, and Mattering: What's the Difference? [16:21] Mattering as a Survival Instinct [26:14] “If It Wasn't For You…” [35:22] The Importance of Mattering in Leadership [40:55] The Role of Mattering in Organizational Culture [45:37] The Impact of Mattering on Employee Engagement [49:50] Desert Island Music Picks [52:42] Grooving Session: Mattering is Common Sense, Not Common Practice ©2025 Behavioral Grooves Links More About Zach The Power of Mattering by Zach Mercurio Join the Behavioral Grooves community Subscribe to Behavioral Grooves on YouTube Music Links Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers - Won't Back Down Foo Fighters - The Pretender

In this incredible episode we're discussing The Power of Mattering with Zach Mercurio. We admire Zach's work, so much so he's officially our first repeat guest on We Are Human Leaders! His poignant new book The Power of Mattering: How Leaders Can Create a Culture of Significance is arguably one of the most needed in the world right now!In this conversation Zach shares with us the damning data on the state of work–despite the billions of dollars of investment made in employee engagement, retention, wellbeing, belonging, you name it–we're more disengaged and unhappy than ever before. Why? Well because despite it all, we still don't feel like we truly matter. And this is an innate human need that can't be overlooked.Zach shares that “honing the skills to create a culture of significance is at the heart of revitalizing the health of our workplaces and workers.” We couldn't agree more. Mattering is much more than a means to create productivity and engagement at work. It's a way of making sure everyone knows that they are innately needed, unique and what they do matters to others. Mattering is a fundamental human needs for all of us, and for that reason alone should be motivation to prioritise it.Learn more about Zach Mercurio, and find his latest book here:Find Zach Mercurio on LinkedIn.Get your copy of The Power of Mattering: How Leaders Can Create a Culture of Significance from Harvard Business Review Press here. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of Above the Business, host Bradley Hamdier speaks with Zach Mercurio, author of "The Power of Mattering: How Leaders Can Create a Culture of Significance." They dive deep into the practical skills leaders need to make team members feel valued, especially in small businesses with 2-25 employees where every person's contribution is crucial.Zach Mercurio is a researcher and consultant who studies what makes work meaningful. He spends 30% of his time conducting research at the Center for Meaning and Purpose and the rest learning from leaders and teaching others how to create cultures where people matter.In this episode, you'll hear Bradley and Zach discuss...The Foundation: Caring About vs. Caring ForThe Critical Difference: Many organizations say they care about their people, but caring for someone requires getting up close and truly understanding themThe Trust Connection: It's nearly impossible to care about anything if you don't feel cared for firstNo Shortcuts: There are no shortcuts to building trust, engagement, or motivation - it requires time and attentionThe Three Core Skills for Making People Matter1. Noticing PeopleBeyond Knowing: You can know someone well but fail to notice when they're strugglingPractical System: Write down one thing you heard each team member talk about on Friday, then follow up on Monday with a 3-minute check-inBetter Questions: Instead of "How are you?" ask "What has your attention today?" or "What have you been thinking about?"2. Affirming PeopleMore Than Appreciation: Affirmation shows people how their uniqueness makes a unique differenceSpecific Evidence: Give indisputable evidence of their significance rather than general praiseThe Four Unique Gifts: Every person brings strengths, purpose, perspective, and wisdom to your organization3. Showing People They're NeededEnsure every person knows how their work is indispensable and non-disposableConnect individual contributions to the bigger vision and impactThanks to our sponsors...BlueprintOS equips business owners to design and install an operating system that runs like clockwork. Through BlueprintOS, you will grow and develop your leadership, clarify your culture and business game plan, align your operations with your KPIs, develop a team of A-Players, and execute your playbooks. Register to join us at an upcoming WebClass when you visit www.blueprintos.com!Coach P found great success as an insurance agent and agency owner. He leads a large, stable team of professionals who are at the top of their game year after year. Now he shares the systems, processes, delegation, and specialization he developed along the way. Gain access to weekly training calls and mentoring at www.coachpconsulting.com. Be sure to mention the Above The Business Podcast when you get in touch.Club Capital is the ultimate partner for financial management and marketing services, designed specifically for insurance agencies, fitness franchises, and youth soccer organizations. As the nation's largest accounting and financial advisory firm for insurance agencies, Club Capital proudly serves over 1,000 agency locations across the country—and we're just getting started. With Club Capital, you get more than just services; you get a dedicated account manager backed by a team of specialists committed to your success. From monthly accounting and tax preparation to CFO services and innovative digital marketing, we've got you covered. Ready to experience the transformative power of Club Capital? Schedule your free demo today at club.capital and see...

Zach Mercurio shares insights from his new book, The Power of Mattering: How Leaders Can Create a Culture of Significance.

On this episode of the Growing with Purpose podcast, host Paul Spiegelman speaks with Zach Mercurio, a researcher, author, and leadership development facilitator specializing in purposeful leadership, mattering, meaningful work, and positive organizational psychology. His latest book, The Power of Mattering, is available now.  Zach is an expert in the importance and implementation of mattering in the workplace, but it's a path he had to carve out for himself. The desire to explore this topic was sparked in him after his first job out of college. Working in advertising sales, he noticed the jarring fact that he and his team treated their clients as a resource rather than people with their own lives and interests. When he went on to complete his PhD research, he befriended the custodians who were in the school buildings late at night like him. This led him to focus his research on people in overlooked (and often underinvested in) professions like cleaning, and how they experience meaning in their work.  Listen to this episode to learn Zach's practical methods for scaling mattering in the workplace, the difference between mattering and belonging, and why Zach sees now as a time when people want to feel that they matter at their work more than ever.   Show Notes: 2:35 - What is mattering? 9:27 - “Work was always an act of community” 14:37 - Early influences & Zach's PhD research 24:40 - “Common sense is not common practice” 39:00 - How to scale mattering

Wes Adams: Meaningful Work Wes Adams is the CEO of SV Consulting Group, a firm partnering with Fortune 500s and scaling companies to develop high-impact leaders and support high-performing teams. He is also a positive psychology researcher at the University of Pennsylvania, where he studies the leadership practices and organizational structures that help employees thrive. He's the author, along with Tamara Myles, of Meaningful Work: How to Ignite Passion and Performance in Every Employee*. A generation ago, work was just work for a lot of folks. Today, we expect more out of our careers than past generations ever did. That means leaders need to be better at helping people find meaning at work. In this conversation, Wes and I discuss how leaders can do better at being catalysts for connection. Key Points We expect so much more from work than we did a generation ago. Work is increasingly a place where people seek belonging, purpose, and meaning. Supporting community in the workplace is a combination of building trust and designing shared experiences. Just like a balanced investment portfolio, community is a combination of diverse avenues that build a strong foundation. Consider a simple structure for synchronized breaks to help people connect more intentionally during work. Invite team members to share a story of them at their best or reflect on a photo/story that has meaning for them at the start of team meetings. When responding to a joy that a colleague shares, ask a follow-up question that engages and elevates. Higher difficulty (yet strongly meaningful) activities include shared volunteer work and funding or support for community activities. By occasionally sharing personal plans, stories, reading lists, or other activities, the leader sets the tone for others feeling safe to connect in this way. Resources Mentioned Meaningful Work: How to Ignite Passion and Performance in Every Employee* by Wes Adams and Tamara Myles Interview Notes Download my interview notes in PDF format (free membership required). Related Episodes How to Create Meaningful Gatherings, with Priya Parker (episode 395) The Beliefs of Inspirational Leaders, with Stephen M. R. Covey (episode 707) The Way to Notice People Better, with Zach Mercurio (episode 733) Expert Partner Are you a talent development or human resources leader seeking a coach for an internal client? Coaching for Leaders has partnered with some of the top coaches in the world, including a number of past podcast guests. Help us make an introduction by visiting our Expert Partners Page and telling us what you're seeking in a coach. 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.

Mattering isn't "touchy-feely" - it's as fundamental as eating or sleeping. And in our current challenging times, people need to feel they matter more than ever. In the latest episode of The Workplace Podcast, William Corless sits down with Zach Mercurio to dive deep into his powerful book "The Power of Mattering: How Leaders Can Create a Culture of Significance." Zach is a researcher, leadership development facilitator, and speaker who specialises in purposeful leadership and meaningful work. He holds a PhD from Colorado State University and serves as a senior fellow at the Centre for Meaning and Purpose. Episode Highlights: What is Mattering? It's feeling significant to those around you - knowing the team wouldn't be complete without you The NAND Model: Notice, Affirm, and show people they're Needed - three powerful behaviors that make people feel they matter The Traffic Light Check-in: A simple red/yellow/green system that led to 50% reduction in attrition and higher engagement scores The Noticing Book: A brilliant practice of writing down one thing about each team member and following up - "there's magic in being remembered"

On this Live Greatly podcast episode, Kristel Bauer sits down with Zach Mercurio, author of The Power of Mattering: How Leaders Can Create a Culture of Significance. Kristel and Zach discuss actionable things that can support meaningful relationships and tips to make the people in your work and life feel valued.  Tune in now!  Key Takeaways From This Episode: What is mattering and why is it important Actionable things that can have a big impact around making people feel valued Why being intentional and even scheduling ways to make people feel valued is so important  A look into Zach's book, The Power of Mattering: How Leaders Can Create a Culture of Significance ABOUT ZACH MERCURIO Zach Mercurio is a researcher, leadership development facilitator, and speaker specializing in purposeful leadership, mattering, and meaningful work. He is the author of The Power of Mattering: How Leaders Can Create a Culture of Significance. Zach advises leaders in organizations worldwide on practices for building cultures that promote well-being, motivation, and performance. He holds a Ph.D. in organizational learning, performance, and change from Colorado State University, where he serves as a senior fellow at the Center for Meaning and Purpose and as an instructor in the Organizational Learning, Performance, and Change program. Connect with Zach: Order  The Power of Mattering: How Leaders Can Create a Culture of Significance LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zachmercurio/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zachmercurio/  Website: https://www.zachmercurio.com/  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.

What if could upgrade performance at work, build deep relationships at home and in the workplace, heal loneliness everywhere by communicating 3 simple things?We're facing a crisis that's hiding in plain sight.It's not just loneliness or disengagement - it's what researcher Zach Mercurio calls a "mattering deficit." Despite our hyper-connected world, people simply don't feel seen, heard, and valued in their everyday interactions.The statistics are striking: one-third of people report persistent loneliness, 70% feel emotionally uninvested in their work, and half of students don't believe anyone would notice if they were absent. But Mercurio reveals that these aren't separate problems - they're symptoms of our collective failure to make each other feel significant.Why now?Since the early 2000s, digital communication has allowed us to bypass situations that once developed our human connection skills. We can respond to someone's bad news with a sad emoji rather than sitting with them, truly listening, and showing compassion. Zach Mercurio introduces a powerful framework - Notice, Affirm, Need - that transforms how we interact. Through compelling stories and research, Dr Mercurio demonstrates how small interactions can have profound impacts.A supervisor who keeps notes about team members' lives, a facilities manager who shows his team photos of people enjoying their work, or simply telling someone "if it wasn't for you..." can transform an ordinary exchange into one that fosters significance.Your next great act will happen in your next interaction. Don't overthink it. Instead of searching for the next big program or initiative, focus on optimizing how you notice, affirm, and need the people around you.Join the mattering movement and discover how making others feel significant creates a virtuous cycle that enriches everyone's lives.  _____________________Dr Zach Mercurio: https://www.zachmercurio.com/  Mattering Assessment for leaders and more book resources: https://www.zachmercurio.com/mattering/"The Power of Mattering" book equips leaders to unleash the hidden superpowers in each individual by addressing the fundamental human need to feel significant: https://www.zachmercurio.com/the-power-of-mattering/  Connect with Dr Zach Mercurio on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zachmercurio/  More about Dr Zach Mercurio:  Dr Zach Mercurio is an author, researcher, and leadershipdevelopment facilitator specializing in purposeful leadership,mattering, and meaningful work. He advises leaders inorganizations worldwide on practices for building cultures thatpromote well-being, motivation, and performance.  Zach holds a Ph.D. in organizational learning, performance, andchange and serves as one of Simon Sinek's Optimist Instructors,teaching a top-rated course on creating mattering at work. Hisnew book is "The Power of Mattering: How Leaders Can Create aCulture of Significance." His previous book is "The InvisibleLeader: Transform Your Life, Work, and Organization with ThePower of Authentic Purpose.”  He's been featured in The Harvard Business Review, Forbes,Psychology TText Me Your Thoughts and IdeasSupport the show Brought to you by Angela Shurina EXECUTIVE & OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE COACH

Ever wonder why feeling valued and significant at work (and in life!) matters so much? This week, I'm thrilled to welcome researcher, author, and purposeful leadership expert Zach Mercurio to Grow the Good. Zach dives deep into the critical concept of mattering—the foundational human need to feel significant, seen, and valued by others.Drawing from his latest book, The Power of Mattering, Zach shares compelling insights on why feeling significant isn't just nice to have; it's essential for our mental health, resilience, and overall performance. We discuss authentic purpose, how digital life impacts meaningful connection, and practical strategies anyone can use to foster mattering in their relationships and workplaces.Key takeaways include:Why authentic purpose must benefit others, not just ourselves.How feeling insignificant contributes to loneliness and decreased performance.Practical strategies for creating meaningful interactions that communicate value.Why care and hurry can't coexist—and how to slow down to truly see others.The critical role leaders play in shaping a culture where everyone feels they matter.This episode is packed with stories, research, and actionable advice you can apply immediately to your own life and leadership. Because when people know they matter, amazing things happen.LINKS:- Connect with Zach- Read The Power of Mattering- Finding Meaning and Mattering with Andrew Soren- Purpose is the Compass--------------The Grow the Good Podcast is produced by Palm Tree Pod Co.

Kelly speaks with Zach Mercurio, a positive leadership and organizations researcher and Honorary Fellow of Psychology in the Center for Meaning and Purpose at Colorado State University. He has a new book: The Power of Mattering: How Leaders Can Create a Culture of Significance. “We can't have healthy organizations with unhealthy people.”  “Noticing is an ongoing […]

IN EPISODE 229:Making others feel like they matter is no small matter - and it doesn't require big gestures. In Episode 229, Zach Mercurio shows how leaders can help others experience greatersignificance at work. We discuss practical ways to notice, affirm and make people feel needed, how to ask questions that foster trust, and what organizations can do to create more supportive workplaces. ABOUT ZACH MERCURIO:Zach Mercurio is a researcher, leadership development facilitator, and speaker specializing in purposeful leadership, mattering, and meaningful work.  He's a senior fellow at Colorado State University's Center for Meaning and Purpose, where he's also an instructor in the Organizational Learning, Performance, and Change program. His new book is,  The Power of Mattering: How Leaders Can Create a Culture of Significance.

Zach Mercurio: The Power of Mattering Zach Mercurio is an author, researcher, and speaker specializing in purposeful leadership, mattering, meaningful work, and positive organizational psychology. He teaches a course with past guest Simon Sinek on how leaders can show everyone how they matter. He is the author of The Power of Mattering: How Leaders Can Create a Culture of Significance*. When you ask people what mattered in their careers, few cite the bonus, or the stock options, or the employee of the month award. What they do talk about are the times they were remembered, supported, thanked, and seen. In this conversation, Zach and I discuss how to do that better. Key Points When people are asked about when they mattered, they recall small moments of being remembered, helped, thanked, or seen. The behavior of a leader accounts for half of increased feelings of mattering and meaningfulness at work. Rather than identifying with a person's behavior identify first with the person. Look for the positive traits in a person or identify something that you love. Music is the space between the notes. In our informal interactions, we have the choice to turn against, turn away, or turn towards. Leaders who notice people well consistently follow three steps: observe, note, and share. Resources Mentioned The Power of Mattering: How Leaders Can Create a Culture of Significance* by Zach Mercurio Interview Notes Download my interview notes in PDF format (free membership required). Related Episodes Start With Why, with Simon Sinek (episode 223) How to Shift Behavior for Better Results, with Mitch Warner (episode 690) How to Bring Out the Best in People, with Donna Hicks (episode 724) Expert Partner Are you noticing people communicating in a such a way that feels boring or robotic to stakeholders – or perhaps just losing them in the data? David Hutchens, one our our expert partners, helps leaders and organizations develop a more human, engaging voice through the power of storytelling. To discover more about how his work may support your organization, get in touch on our expert partners page. 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.

Zach Mercurio is a researcher, author, and speaker specializing in leadership, mattering, and meaningful work. He is the author of the books The Invisible Leader and The Power of Mattering, and some of his clients include the U.S. Army, J.P. Morgan Chase, Delta Airlines, Marriott International, The Government of Canada, and The National Park Service. Zach also serves as one of Simon Sinek's “Optimist Instructors,” teaching a course with Simon on how leaders can show everyone how they matter. Zach earned a Ph.D. in organizational learning, performance, and change from Colorado State University, where he now serves as a Senior Honorary Fellow in the Center for Meaning and Purpose. In this episode we discuss the following: To show people they matter we can ask them, “When you feel that you matter to me, what am I doing?” And then do more of those things. We can show people they matter by providing evidence (e.g., pictures) of how their work benefits others. We can show people we need them by pointing out what wouldn't get done without them. Just because something is common sense, doesn't mean it's common practice. But by taking simple steps to notice and affirm people, even scheduling our good intentions, we can help people know that they matter and close the knowing / doing gap.   Connect on Social Media: X: https://twitter.com/nate_meikle LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/natemeikle/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nate_meikle/ Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@nate.meikle

This week on DisrupTV, we interviewed Sergey Davidovich is the Co-Founder and President of SparkBeyond, pioneer of the AI-powered Always-Optimized platform, Paula Davis, author of Lead Well: 5 Mindsets to Engage, Retain, and Inspire Your Team and Zach Mercurio, author of The Power Of Mattering: How Leaders can Create a Culture of Significance. We discussed the evolution of AI in decision-making with Sergey, who explained the shift from static automation to dynamic systems capable of continuous learning and adaptation. Paula emphasized the importance of leadership practices that foster meaningful work and employee engagement. Zach highlighted the primal need for humans to feel valued and significant, especially in the age of AI. The episode underscored the critical role of leaders in creating cultures where employees feel seen, heard, and valued. DisrupTV is a weekly podcast with hosts R "Ray" Wang and Vala Afshar. The show airs live at 11:00 a.m. PT/ 2:00 p.m. ET every Friday. Brought to you by Constellation Executive Network: constellationr.com/CEN.

Episode 300 brings back one of our favorite guests, Dr. Zach Mercurio, a leading expert on purpose and meaning in our lives. Focusing on the transformative concept of "mattering"—the profound need for individuals to feel significant and valued in their communities.Connect with Zach at zachmercurio.com, Instagram @zachmercurio. Get his latest book, The Power of Mattering!Thank you to our sponsors.TacticalHarmony.comBrenda Rice RealtorErie Coffee Roasters - use promo code On Purpose to save 10% on your first order!Want more The On Purpose Podcast?Find full episodes and more!Connect with Jerrod!Linkedin, InstagramGet My Book!

Forget what you've been told about what's driving division, disengagement, and dysfunction. It's not woke and DEI. It's not remote work. It's not Gen Z or political affiliations. According to Dr. Zach Mercurio, it's something far more primal: the deep, unmet need to matter. In this gut-punch of an episode, Zach and host Ira S Wolfe rip into why belonging programs fall flat, expose the myth about soft skills, and reveal why making someone feel seen isn't a nice-to-have—it's survival. You'll never look at leadership, work, or human connection the same way again. Perks don't create a vibrant culture. They're distractions from the fact no one feels like they belong. Ping-pong tables and catered lunches won't fix your toxic culture. Start with making people feel like they matter.  If you give a damn about your people—this is required listening. Order the book: The Power of Mattering (https://www.zachmercurio.com/the-power-of-mattering/) Download "Mattering" resources: https://www.zachmercurio.com/mattering/ Connect with Zach: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zachmercurio/

Do you matter? Do the people you work with feel that they matter? Employee engagement, despite becoming a $1 billion industry, is at a 10-year low. Only 39% of employees say someone cares for them.My good friend and fellow PhD student Zach Mercurio joined the Greatness Podcast to share research-based insights from his latest book, The Power of Mattering. Sixty-percent of people are in what Zach calls "front line, low choice occupations", and leaders help all people find meaning in their work by "adding rigor to caring". "We expect people to care before they feel cared for." We also create systems that reward for things other than caring. Caring is a skill that can be learned and Zach shares specific actions leaders take that make people feel they matter, such as "schedule good intentions".

What does it really mean for people to feel like they matter in the workplace?In this episode, Zach Mercurio unpacks why mattering is the missing piece in most workplace cultures and how leaders can foster it. He also explores how a sense of value and contribution drives engagement, innovation, and retention. Zach is on a mission to make work and life more meaningful. As an author, researcher, and speaker, he helps leaders create environments where people feel valued. Topics explored in this episode: (02:15) The Science of Mattering* How mattering influences employee performance and well-being.* Why recognition alone isn't enough to make people feel valued.(10:40) Workplace Disconnection* The hidden costs of employees feeling like they don't matter.(18:55) The Role of Leaders in Creating Mattering* Mattering shouldn't be just an HR initiative—it's a leadership responsibility.(28:30) Purpose vs. Mattering* Why having a sense of mattering is more foundational than purpose.* Case studies of companies that have built cultures of mattering.(47:20) Building a Mattering-Centric Culture* The three key components of a workplace where people feel they matter.Thanks to Zach Mercurio for being on the show! Learn more about Zach: https://www.zachmercurio.com/Get Zach's book: The Power of Mattering: How Leaders Can Create a Culture of Significance: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D8XMWCLJ Connect with Zach on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zachmercurio Bill Gallagher, Scaling Coach and host of the Scaling Up Business podcast, is an international business coach who works with C-Suite leaders to achieve breakthrough growth. Join Bill in the Growth Navigator Coaching Program: https://ScalingCoach.com/workshop Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.LinkedIn.com/in/BillGallBill on YouTube: https://www.YouTube.com/@BillGallagherScalingCoach Visit https://ScalingUp.com to learn more about Verne Harnish, our team of Scaling Up Coaches, and the Scaling Up Performance Platform, which includes coaching, learning, software, and summit. We share how the fastest-growing companies succeed where so many others fail. We help leadership teams with the biggest decisions around people, strategy, execution, and cash so that they can scale up successfully and beat the odds of business growth. Did you enjoy today's episode? If so, then please leave a review! Help other business leaders discover Scaling Up Business with Bill Gallagher so they, too, can benefit from the ideas shared in these podcasts.Subscribe via Spotify: https://spoti.fi/3PGhWPJSubscribe via Apple Podcasts: https://apple.co/3PKe00uBill on Facebook:

What if you could turn 2025 into your most fulfilling year yet? Join us as we uncover the secrets to joy, purpose, and gratitude with insights from renowned experts like Michael Bungay-Stanier, Zach Mercurio, and Dr. Martin Seligman. Discover how to align your actions with your core values and attract opportunities that truly resonate. We'll guide you through transformative strategies to identify what energizes you and how to live a life of meaningful purpose. With practical advice on incorporating daily gratitude and distinguishing fleeting pleasures from lasting fulfillment, you'll be inspired to take control of your path and vision for success.But that's not all—get ready to manifest your best year with insights from Dr. John Demartini, Timothy Gallwey, Brendon Burchard, and James Clear. We'll clarify manifestation misconceptions, focusing on the power of action and reducing interferences like doubts and distractions. Learn how small, consistent actions can lead to significant results using James Clear's "Atomic Habits." From setting daily intentions to time-blocking and being present, we introduce the VISION framework to help you achieve your goals. Plus, we'll explore leadership and personal growth, spotlighting an upcoming conversation with Dr. Carol Parker-Walsh, promising insights into inclusive leadership and building high-performance teams. Let's embark on this journey together to make 2025 a remarkable year of learning and leading.Send us a textSupport the show✅ Follow The Leadership Project on your favourite podcast platform and listen to a new episode every week!

On this episode, I'm taking a deep dive into TWO of my most popular episodes with Zach Mercurio, expert on "mattering" at work. Why? Because it turns out, feeling LIKE you matter is as vital as food and shelter... and its ABSENCE is as harmful as smoking 15 cigarettes DAILY! Think that's dramatic? Zach breaks down how loneliness isn't just sad, it's SABOTAGE: 82% of workers feel lonely at work (that's an EY study, folks). This isn't about solo offices, it's about feeling INVISIBLE, even in a crowd. This feeling CRUSHES engagement, well-being, and sucks the life out of organizational change ... the very things we need for a company to THRIVE, especially during these Never Normal Times. So, what's the antidote? Leaders, you're not just bosses, you must be ARCHITECTS OF MEANING. It's not enough for a job to HAVE purpose, people need to FEEL that purpose IN their daily work. Like Zach says, if all you offer is a paycheck, guess what? That's all you'll GET. This episode is PACKED with shifts that will rewire how you think about work and change. Ask yourself: how do you get people to feel like their contributions to change truly matter? Learn why you must differentiate between the meaning OF work and the meaning IN work. Get ready to have your assumptions challenged and your leadership toolkit UPGRADED. You can listen to the full episodes of Zach Mercurio's interviews here: YouTube: (1) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HzKfyYKlj4k&t=28s (2) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aPEcHL142Z0 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/geeks-geezers-and-googlization-show/id1115530408 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1tKCFbV7NZDzeQGZMsSQaP

“Mattering is our inherent need to feel significant and to feel significant to the people around us,” explains Zach Mercurio, an expert on mattering and its crucial role in creating meaningful and engaging workplaces. In his conversation with Alex Raymond, Zach stresses that mattering is more than just a feel-good concept—it's a fundamental human need that can transform motivation, productivity, and overall well-being. When people feel like they don't matter, it often leads to disengagement or even quiet quitting.   Zach explains how crucial it is for leaders to make their teams feel noticed, affirmed, and needed. Why? Because when employees believe their work contributes to a larger purpose, they find deeper meaning in their roles. By fostering an environment where individuals feel valued and connected to the organization's mission, leaders can inspire greater engagement and long-term success.   Quotes “Mattering is our inherent need to feel significant and to feel significant to the people around us. And it's three primary things. It's a fundamental human instinct. So, for everyone listening, the first thing you did when you opened your eyes was tilt your head upward. You looked for a caretaker, then reached out your hands and grasped for significance. And so, your very survival as a human, depended on you procuring mattering to someone else, enough to keep you alive. It's a basic survival instinct. It's a fundamental need for motivation. When we look at motivation in life and work, it is almost impossible for anything to matter to a human being who doesn't believe that they matter.” (02:47 | Zach Mercurio)  “It's hard for anything to matter to someone who doesn't believe that they and what they're doing matters.” (03:47 | Zach Mercurio)  “Meaningful work is doing what matters to us and what matters to the world. It's mattering by default.” (05:47 | Zach Mercurio) “Mattering is really at the core of these concepts: it's I feel valued and I know how I add value.” (06:07 | Zach Mercurio) “Feelings of not mattering either result in acts of withdrawal or acts of desperation. What's an act of desperation? I matter more than you think. Complaining, blaming, protesting. A lot of difficult employees are, in my practice, the most difficult employees are employees who feel the most unseen, unheard, unacknowledged, and misunderstood.” (08:16 | Zach Mercurio)   Links Connect with Zach Mercurio: Website: https://www.zachmercurio.com/   Connect with Alex Raymond: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/afraymond/ Website: https://amplifyam.com/ HiveCast.fm is a proud sponsor of The Conscious Entrepreneur Podcast. Podcast production and show notes provided by HiveCast.fm

Join us as we celebrate 200 episodes of The Leadership Project with a special reflection on the invaluable lessons from our distinguished guests. Discover the 6Cs of communication with Lisa Partridge and learn how conscious leadership and presence can make others feel seen and heard, as emphasized by Jennifer Mulholland, Jeff Shuck, Brendan Watt, and Pam Marcheski. Marvel at the transformative power of purpose, deep listening, and meaningful impact, highlighted by Kimberly Abbott, Zach Mercurio, Don Campbell, and Otto Sharma.Unlock the secrets of effective communication and influence with insights from Oscar Trimboli on the art of deep listening. Learn how to follow curiosity for more meaningful conversations, inspired by Don Campbell's episode, and grasp the concept of becoming a multiplier in leadership through Irial O'Farrell and Liz Wiseman's wisdom. Understand the importance of psychological safety from Stephen Shedlesky, Heather Hansen, and Stefan Weidner, and dive into the critical themes of feedback, diversity, equity, and inclusion with expert insights from Aga Bajer, Molly McGrath, Martine Kalaw, Beth Ridley, Dr. Alessandra Wall, Yoshiko Stowell, and Lisa Tromba.Mastering a high-performance mindset is crucial for leadership, and this episode covers it all—from Dr. John Demartini's insights on manifestation and values to Bryce Henson and Scott Mautz on resilience and stoicism. Learn Timothy Gallwey's equation of performance as potential minus interference, and hear a heartfelt reflection with my wife, Sei, on the leadership journey we've undertaken together. Don't miss our special competition announcement at the end, where you can win a prize by sharing your reflections on the show!Send us a textC-Suite StrategiesWelcome to C-Suite Strategies, the podcast where we discuss the art of scaling businesses.Listen on: Apple Podcasts SpotifySupport the show✅ Follow The Leadership Project on your favourite podcast platform and listen to a new episode every week!

Mattering is more than just warm & fuzzy. It's the game-changing new management skill set for the age of AI, a blueprint for navigating the wilds of Never Normal.  After diving deep into the conversation between Ira Wolfe and Zach Mercurio, here are ten nuggets that'll reshape how you think about finding significance in your work and creating an environment where you truly matter. 1. It's not just about what you do; it's about who you are at work.  2. Find your unique problem-solving groove! There's this sweet spot where your talents meet the world's needs, and it's your job to hunt it down—with a little help from your mentors, of course. 3. So, you're the boss? Make your space a no-judgment zone for trial and error. Cultivate fertile ground for growth and innovation. 4. Here's the kicker: our lives have both function and form. Employers, don't just crunch numbers—get to grips with the real-life design behind your employees to keep that workplace buzzing. 5. Humans are your job! Helping people feel like they matter is every leader and manager's most important skill set.  6. Leadership 101:  Leaders need to be the role models of the personal growth they want to see in their people. Own your oopsies and nurture your team's well-being. 7. People with purpose pack the mightiest punch: it's not all soft and fluffy; it's strategically rational to leverage emotional intelligence. 8. The secret sauce to resilience? Believe it or not, it's self-belief, purpose, and relationships, not just gritting your teeth and barreling through. 9. Learn why self-awareness isn't enough. It's self-efficacy that really makes a difference. 10. Why asking youngsters "what do you want to be" is a really dumb question. More about Zach Mercurio: https://zachmercurio.com Buy The Invisible Leader:   

In one of our most popular episodes of 2023, we had the privilege of hosting Zach Mercurio to discuss the importance of mattering and why most people get Maslow's pyramid wrong. From leadership skills to the impact of AI, we discussed the factors that contribute to a meaningful work environment and its implications for employees and employers in the future of work. Here are 3 key takeaways from the episode: The PRISM Model: From prospection to resilience, innovation, social support, and mattering and meaning, the PRISM model outlines the essential skills required by leaders and workers alike in the workplace. Mattering Matters: Zach underscores the significance of "mattering" as a cornerstone for developing other crucial skills and differentiates between the "meaning of work" and the "meaning in work," shedding light on how early experiences influence how people view themselves and their impact in the workplace. Growth Mindset & Well-being: A growth mindset is pivotal in fostering resilience and adaptability, and we delved into the importance of leaders creating cultures of mattering in the workplace, especially in light of statistics revealing the impact on employee engagement and mental health. Tune in to the episode for an in-depth exploration of these topics and more! And don't forget to like and subscribe to Geeks Geezers Googlization on all platforms for more insightful content.

Wanting to make people feel like who they are and what they do matters is common sense, but not common practice. Zach Mercurio is an author, keynote speaker, consultant, and researcher specializing in purposeful leadership, meaningful work, mattering, and positive organizational development. In this episode, Zach joins us to share the data that proves mattering is a primal need that never goes away but is often overlooked. Listen in to learn simple, actionable practices you can use to make your team members feel noticed, affirmed, and needed. If you can do that, you can create highly effective work environments rooted in trust and connection. Book Recommendation: Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor E. Frankl Additional Resources: Learn more about the PeopleForward Network: www.peopleforwardnetwork.com