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Your Morning Commute

Your Morning Commute

By Shelley Smith

Tune in Monday - Friday to listen to YOUR MORNING COMMUTE. The only podcast providing executives straight talk about all things workplace culture because culture is never built in a day. It’s built every day. This is Shelley Smith, the culture curator and CEO of Premier Rapport where culture matters. If you want to connect with me keep listening and come join the conversation as a culture curator member or get professionally certified as a culture curator. Find out more at premierrapport.com. Now let’s get through today’s traffic jam together.
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Currently playing episode

EP 469 YMC: How What When Together - Resign vs Retain

Your Morning Commute May 11, 2022

00:00
04:07
Ep 570 YMC: Effective Delegation the often missed Trifecta

Ep 570 YMC: Effective Delegation the often missed Trifecta

Today's episode, we're tackling the crucial topics of delegation, effective follow-up, and self-accountability. Effective delegation that ends in your desired results does have an order to its madness when done right.


All of us have been on the failing end of delegation whether you were the delegator or the receiver and it comes down not just delegating but how did you / they follow up and hold self and others accountable being with clear expectations and necessary information along the way.


Listen in and share your comments afterwards.

Feb 28, 202405:27
Ep 569 YMC: Transparency in Leadership - Finding the Balance

Ep 569 YMC: Transparency in Leadership - Finding the Balance

In this episode, we'll explore the delicate balance of transparency in leadership. How can leaders maintain open communication without oversharing or being unnecessarily transparent?

Transparency in leadership is often touted as essential for building trust and fostering a positive work culture. Finding balance of sharing and oversharing can be difficult at times.

I find many leaders under share and hold onto information instead of putting it out there and it doesn't land well with the rest of the team. It causes uncertainty and unnecessary stress for everyone.

As always, I would love to hear your thoughts and comments below.

Feb 26, 202406:25
Ep 568 YMC: Broccoli and Leadership Reactions

Ep 568 YMC: Broccoli and Leadership Reactions

First off, a thank you goes to Dr. Sarah Spradlin for sharing this article that inspired today's podcast. "The Broccoli Experiment: How Facial Expressions Impact Food Love" - readers look it up.

The article is funny, plus it reiterates how negative emotions can and will create negative contagions. Unfortunately they are formed all around us on the daily.

Personally, I immediately started thinking about leaders and the impact on our workplace cultures.

Enjoy today's episode, as I discuss this topic and then as you go through your day and your life - become more mindful of how you show up. What role are you playing as a leader and creating the workplace culture you desire to live in.





Jan 17, 202404:47
Ep 567 YMC: Performance Reviews - You may be doing it all wrong

Ep 567 YMC: Performance Reviews - You may be doing it all wrong

What is stopping you from giving actual feedback? Or receiving it? Don't let the red tape get in your way. Is it the 'system' or is it you? What is stopping you from doing the right thing? What do 5 star leaders do?


🤔 Rethinking performance reviews! 🔄 Traditional reviews often miss the mark, focusing on past actions rather than fostering growth. Let's shift the narrative—embrace continuous feedback, set future-oriented goals, and build a culture of collaboration. It's time to empower individuals to thrive and evolve! 💪🌱

#PerformanceReviews #FutureOfWork #FeedbackMatters

Jan 03, 202407:35
Ep 566 YMC: 2024 Predictions Workplace Culture and Leadership Development

Ep 566 YMC: 2024 Predictions Workplace Culture and Leadership Development

My 2024 predictions are the subject of today's 566th episode of #YourMorningCommute - all things Workplace Culture and Leadership Development driven. Take 6 minutes to listen to my top 8 predictions - evolving trends and new trends.

🚀✨ Stepping into 2024 with a vision for the future of work! 🌐👥 Our latest podcast explores the transformative trends in workplace culture and leadership development that are set to redefine the employee experience. From remote work evolution to tech-infused learning, we're gearing up for an exciting journey ahead. 🌈💼 Dive into the details and join the conversation! 🗣️💬 #FutureOfWork #WorkplaceCulture #LeadershipDevelopment #2024Trends #Innovation #EmployeeExperience #Adaptability #WorkplaceWellbeing 🚀✨

Dec 29, 202306:18
Ep 565 YMC: Defining and Checking your LEADERSHIP effectiveness

Ep 565 YMC: Defining and Checking your LEADERSHIP effectiveness

No matter how you slice and dice it leadership still comes down to some basics to be an effective leader. I hope you take 5 minutes to listen to today's 565th episode and let me know if you agree with my leadership description tips and overall thoughts.

Dec 19, 202304:34
Ep 564 YMC: 10 Ways to Check on the Health of Your Culture

Ep 564 YMC: 10 Ways to Check on the Health of Your Culture

Your culture is the summation of all your individual and team behaviors and overall actions. Today I tee up 10 ways you can check to see how your interactions are coming and perhaps institute more common and consistent questions amongst each other.

Dec 12, 202304:38
Ep 563 YMC: You Are Making An Impact

Ep 563 YMC: You Are Making An Impact

Don't question yourself - keep going. You are making an impact on your workplace culture. It's the little things that add up to all the results - those impacts you are looking for. - Don't look back - keep going.

Nov 28, 202302:07
Ep 562 YMC: Expectations - Information = Failure

Ep 562 YMC: Expectations - Information = Failure

🧮✨ Don't forget the golden rule of life's math: Expectations - Information = Failure, but Expectations + Information = Success! 💡🚀 Keep learning, growing, and reaching for your goals. The formula for success is in your hands! 🌟 #SuccessEquation #KeepLearning #AchieveYourGoals

Nov 01, 202302:17
Ep 561 YMC: Leadership: It's not about you - move to others

Ep 561 YMC: Leadership: It's not about you - move to others

About 100 episodes ago I discussed self vs others - well I am back again on this topic. We all need someone for something every single day...if you stop and count how many times you need others you will be shocked. Life and certainly not business can be done alone. Once you shift all your actions off yourself and focus on others - LIFE gets easier. Therefore business - work get's easier. I don't want to sound like a broken record but LEADERS are you listening?

Oct 20, 202304:42
Ep 562 YMC: Middle Management The Human Crisis Mode

Ep 562 YMC: Middle Management The Human Crisis Mode

Hey fellow middle managers! 🤯 Feeling the people management pressure lately? 🔄 It's okay, you're not alone! 🤷‍♂️💼

Navigating the human side of things can be a wild ride, right? 🎢 From team dynamics to personal challenges, it's a full-on crisis mode! 🆘😅

Let's share our war stories and battle scars! ⚔️ Comment below with your go-to stress-busting tips or your favorite "I survived this crazy work week" meme! 🤣 Let's create a support network and remind each other that it's okay not to have it all figured out. 🌟

Remember, you're doing an awesome job managing the chaos! 🌪️💪 #MiddleManagerMeltdown #PeopleManagementProblems #StressBustersUnite

Sep 27, 202305:14
Ep 561 YMC: 2-minute drill

Ep 561 YMC: 2-minute drill

It's football season, depending on when you are listening to this episode, and for that reason it makes me think about 2-minute drills. They are a great way to reinforce and better align your workplace culture - those behaviors and values needed to solidify what right looks likes. On today's podcast I give you 3 ways you can use a 2-minute drill to create appreciation, improve communication, collaboration or address challenges.

Sep 21, 202304:20
Ep 560 YMC: Unclear Expectations Derail You Ever Time

Ep 560 YMC: Unclear Expectations Derail You Ever Time

Missed deadlines, stress, frustrations, repeating meeting topics - many of these are happening due to unclear expectations - assumptions that messaging is clear and everyone is on the same page.

Today's 560th episode - I dive into this. As always, open to your thoughts, best practices and more to share with our listeners.

Bottom line we need to do better. Now figure out what better should be...over to you.

Sep 14, 202304:31
Ep 559 YMC: Workplace Culture and Succession Planning Intertwined Forces

Ep 559 YMC: Workplace Culture and Succession Planning Intertwined Forces

Today's 559th episode of #YourMorningCommute I recap a recent conversation I had with an employee and a HR colleague as we continue our discussion on navigating today's corporate landscape. We're dove deep into two crucial aspects of any organization: workplace culture and succession planning. These factors can truly make or break a company's success. So, whether you're an employee, a manager, or an aspiring leader, this episode is for you.

Aug 23, 202306:56
Ep 558 YMC: 10 Hurdles in workplace culture cultivation
Aug 15, 202306:44
Ep 557 YMC: 5 Ways to Easily Define Your Values - Your Culture

Ep 557 YMC: 5 Ways to Easily Define Your Values - Your Culture

I am all about keeping things simple AND involving the entire team in every aspect of defining your company values and therefore your overall culture. There is nothing and I mean nothing more powerful than hearing employees at ALL levels not only define what each core value means to them personally but give examples of how it does or should show up at work.


Stop overcomplicating and start asking simpler questions - inquiring minds, get answers and deeper clarity of expectations of what right looks like on your teams and throughout your workplace culture. It doesn't matter if you are all in person, all remote or hybrid on the in between.


Take 5 minutes and listen to some quick and easy tips to do just that on today's 557th episode of #YourMorningCommute

Aug 08, 202305:39
Ep 556 YMC: 6 reasons why you should become a Culture Curator

Ep 556 YMC: 6 reasons why you should become a Culture Curator

Wrapping up our 3-part series with Six Reasons You Should Become a Certified Professional Culture Curator.


6 reasons for you personally + 6 reasons why your company needs you to become a CPCC


  1. Enhanced culture impact
  2. Knowledge and expertise
  3. Credibility and recognition
  4. Expanded career opportunities
  5. Professional growth and development

  1. Company Growth
  2. Company Profit
  3. Attraction of the RIGHT Talent
  4. Retention of the RIGHT employees
  5. Overall Engagement
  6. Short & Long-term Strategic Planning & Execution
Aug 01, 202305:30
Ep 555 YMC: 8 Ways to Curate Your Workplace Culture

Ep 555 YMC: 8 Ways to Curate Your Workplace Culture

Curating a workplace culture involves intentionally shaping the values, norms, behaviors, and overall environment within an organization. On today's 555th episode of #YourMorningCommute, I discuss all eight - let's get started.

Jul 25, 202305:25
Ep 554: Five Reasons Curating Your Workplace Culture is Important
Jul 20, 202304:55
Ep 553 YMC: 7 Leadership Characteristics

Ep 553 YMC: 7 Leadership Characteristics

In a recent survey, direct reports were asked to define what leadership characteristics were most important to them, from their leaders.


I am surprised, not surprised with the order - as they are all interwinding and dependent upon one another.


What are you thoughts?

  1. Humanistic approach
  2. Positive Thinking
  3. Achievement Orientations
  4. Integrity
  5. Inclusive
  6. Balanced Approach
  7. Learning and Self-Awareness
Jul 05, 202305:45
EP 552 YMC: Kayaking Leadership and Team Lessons

EP 552 YMC: Kayaking Leadership and Team Lessons

Everyday there are so many ways we can build stronger teams through effective leadership - leadership from every angle - not just by title.

I recently went kayaking. My friend and I set a goal to go fast (and you know we did - lol) - in order to succeed, we immediately had to communicate things like - which side will we paddle on first, we had to get into a rhythm as we went side to side, we had to agree on when we needed to paddle on the same side to straighten out or turn, we had to verbally agree on go - right, left, stop, faster, etc. AND we are both very strong wheeled women - so we let all that go as we worked towards our goal to go FAST instead of who was in charge.


We accomplished our goal of speed between our start and finish and then both talked about the team work and all the leadership lessons - yep we are crazy like that. It was cool - we didn't plan it ahead of time - it just happened - just like great team dynamics. When done right - it happens right.



Jun 30, 202304:08
Ep 551 YMC: Get Out of Your Echo Chamber

Ep 551 YMC: Get Out of Your Echo Chamber

Workplace Cultures absolutely have and create echo chambers - are you in one - are you creating one - GET OUT!!!

Getting out of your own echo chamber can be a valuable exercise for expanding your perspectives and understanding different viewpoints. Here are five ways you can do that:

1.         Diversify your information sources: seek out other teams, departments leaders - what are they doing to problem solve, innovate, challenge

2.         Engage in respectful discussions: seek out those on the team that think differently from you

3.         Explore offline communities: attend associations, chamber meetings, how are other 'getting the work done' team dynamics

4.         Read books and long-form articles: find topics that make you really think, go deep, different ideas and thoughts that your normal processing

5.         Practice empathy and active listening: remain non judgmental, get more curious, ask questions, seek clarity on different perspectives even if you disagree

Remember, breaking out of an echo chamber takes time and effort. It's a continuous process of seeking out diverse perspectives, challenging your own biases, and being open to learning and growth. If you don't, if you can't then how are you growing as a leader, as a company? You may get caught on a hamster wheel or become obsolete. Yikes, who wants that???


 

Jun 22, 202306:20
Ep 550 YMC: Difference between a Method and Implementation of Your Workplace Culture

Ep 550 YMC: Difference between a Method and Implementation of Your Workplace Culture

Have you ever grabbed a free resource and tried to implement and it just didn't turn out the way you thought it would or the impact you were looking for...well you aren't alone. It is one thing to have a model and another to effectively implement it. This is where many leaders get stuck when they grab my free resources from my website but don't bring me in to help them implement it. Don't get frustrated with your turnover, your lack of accountability on the team, the lack of engagement, the lack of innovation, the lack of etc. with your team - change / shifts can be hard and most of the time harder than most think. Don't be afraid to ask for help. If defining, protecting and cultivating your workplace culture was easy - so many wouldn't struggle at it.

Jun 20, 202303:49
June 20, 2023

June 20, 2023

Jun 20, 202300:60
Ep 549 YMC: Noise and the Impact on your Culture

Ep 549 YMC: Noise and the Impact on your Culture

How many people can admit they allow the noise around them to impact their day?

I admit, it happens to me sometimes and it triggers me or puts me into an unnecessary negative spiral that at times, I can't stop and I hate that!!!

Noise comes at all of us on the daily from all angles. On today's 549th episode of #YourMorningCommute I discuss that and the impact it has on your culture. Feel free to add your comments after listening to 2.5 minutes of this podcast today - I hope you agree it is worth the noise.



Jun 15, 202303:06
Ep 548 YMC: 9 Decisions that Impact Your Career

Ep 548 YMC: 9 Decisions that Impact Your Career

With 35K decisions a day - many choices directly impact your career long term - as a leader how are you showing up with these nine and guiding your team as well.

Today on the 548th episode of #YourMorningCommute I discuss all 9 - let me know how you are doing? What is your commitment level on each?

Jun 07, 202306:17
Ep 547 YMC: Defining Your Culture Type

Ep 547 YMC: Defining Your Culture Type

How would you describe your workplace culture 'type'?


There are eight core types of culture...listen in and pick the one that best describes your team and or your company.


May 31, 202305:01
Ep 546 YMC: 10 Leadership Fundamentals - get back to basics - stop the chaos

Ep 546 YMC: 10 Leadership Fundamentals - get back to basics - stop the chaos

Getting back to basics as a leader means focusing on fundamental principles and practices that are essential for effective leadership. Here are some key aspects to consider:

  1. Communication: Communication is the foundation of good leadership. Clearly and consistently communicate your vision, goals, and expectations to your team. Actively listen to their feedback, concerns, and ideas. Keep communication channels open and encourage transparency and collaboration.

  2. Lead by example: Your actions speak louder than words. Model the behavior you expect from your team members. Demonstrate integrity, professionalism, and accountability in your own actions. Set high standards and inspire others to follow suit.

  3. Build relationships: Invest time in building strong relationships with your team members. Get to know them individually, understand their strengths, and provide support and guidance. Foster a positive and inclusive work environment where everyone feels valued and appreciated.

  4. Provide guidance and mentorship: Help your team members grow and develop their skills. Offer guidance, constructive feedback, and mentorship opportunities. Create a culture of continuous learning and provide resources for professional development.

  5. Empower and delegate: Trust your team members and empower them to take ownership of their work. Delegate responsibilities and provide them with the authority and resources they need to succeed. Encourage autonomy and decision-making, while also being available to provide guidance and support when needed.

  6. Set clear goals and expectations: Establish clear goals, objectives, and performance expectations for your team. Ensure that everyone understands their roles and responsibilities. Monitor progress regularly and provide feedback to keep everyone aligned and motivated.

  7. Foster a positive culture: Create a positive and inclusive work culture that values diversity, collaboration, and innovation. Encourage teamwork, celebrate achievements, and recognize the contributions of individuals. Encourage open communication, creativity, and a willingness to take calculated risks.

  8. Adaptability and agility: In today's rapidly changing world, leaders must be adaptable and agile. Embrace change, be open to new ideas, and encourage your team to adapt and innovate. Be willing to adjust plans and strategies as needed to navigate challenges and seize opportunities.

  9. Lead with empathy: Show empathy and understanding towards your team members. Recognize their individual needs, concerns, and personal situations. Be approachable, listen actively, and be responsive to their well-being. Support work-life balance and prioritize mental health.

  10. Continuously reflect and learn: Take time for self-reflection and continuous improvement. Seek feedback from your team and other stakeholders. Learn from your successes and failures, and be open to personal and professional growth.

Remember, leadership is a journey, and it's important to continually reassess and refine your leadership approach based on the needs of your team and the evolving landscape.

May 26, 202306:56
Ep 545 YMC: Results and behavioral hardwiring

Ep 545 YMC: Results and behavioral hardwiring

People have recipe cards too...humans are so complex and you know we are - so why not find some recipe cards to allow you to better understand your own motivational needs and certainly those of others. Gather those ingredients before you send that email, pop in that office, ask for a meeting, solve a problem, create a new role, set a new strategy...


Today's episode I answer a question I am often asked - why are you so obsessed with Predictive Index and behavioral understandings? I hope you listen in - surely you have 4 minutes today.


May 16, 202304:39
Ep 544 YMC: It's the little things; that are a big deal

Ep 544 YMC: It's the little things; that are a big deal

What little thing(s) are you doing as a leader on the daily that make a big impact on your team?

  • Going on a listening tour? or Skip level one to one?
  • Morning coffee in the break room or the virtual open call room?
  • Random checkin's - yep the cooler talk - pop into the office - sending a private check in message?
  • Hand written card to say thank you or celebrate their anniversary or a recent team or individual win?
  • Celebrating something personal with your team?
  • Mentoring, guiding, advising, big picture thinking, brain storming with your team and the list goes on...

Those little things are a big deal - the question on my mind today is how often are you doing them? Are they a part of how you do, what you do, when you work with your team or just one time a year, never or ?

May 09, 202303:01
Ep 543 YMC: 3 Tips to Run Effective Teams

Ep 543 YMC: 3 Tips to Run Effective Teams

Have you ever wondered why your team isn't on track and accountability seems to be an ongoing concern? When the fire hose is on full blast - no one can consume all that is coming at them - keep it simple with 3 quick tips that are consumable and does move the boat forward.


Today on #YourMorningCommute - this is the topic. 3 Quick Tips to stay on track. Surely you have 4 minutes to listen and see what they are?

Ouch, if you don't have 4 minutes - then we REALLY need to talk.


May 02, 202304:37
Ep 542 YMC Driving Excellence

Ep 542 YMC Driving Excellence

How are you driving excellence for yourself, your team, and your organization?

  • driving better business results
  • driving skills in leaders to be more agile
  • driving innovation
  • driving with an intention to keep current team members
  • driving with a desire and achievement to better attract new talent
  • driving an internal pipeline and succession planning across all levels
  • driving employee engagement
  • driving great communication
  • driving and fulfilling account saturation and retention

and above all driving your workplace culture and showing up in your role intentionally

Apr 26, 202301:56
Ep 541 YMC: What is stopping you from having conversations

Ep 541 YMC: What is stopping you from having conversations

Have you ever been more comfortable telling your coach or a stranger for that matter, about a conversation you should have or you are avoiding all together instead of actually having that conversation with the person or persons that you need to?


If so, you aren't alone. I hear this ALL the time. What we should be saying is being sad to the wrong person...when I am coaching someone and they are telling me about the lack of accountability, the missed timelines, the frustrations they are having with another person and I ask them if they have talked to that person or that team - more often than not, the answer is "NO - I haven't said anything" - immediately I ask why? The reasons of fear, or just plain excuses come flying out their mouths...today I am asking you to stop, just stop - have those conversations, don't avoid them. Avoidance makes things even worse - every - single - time.


Todays podcast I bring up this very topic and give you some tips to get going.


You CAN do this...just take the steps to talk to people. Avoidance is never a good plan or outcome.


Apr 19, 202304:36
Ep 540 YMC: What Leaders Expect, Employees Respect

Ep 540 YMC: What Leaders Expect, Employees Respect

Clear expectations can make a world of difference...do you agree?


I am more likely to hit my mark if I am clear on what the mark is and where it is...do you agree?


So when I say employees will respect what the leaders expect - I mean when leaders are clear on expectations themselves in the simply form can be started and are stated to the employees - then and only then can the employee respect (have self-accountability) around those expectations.


Are you clear on what success means for each team member? Are you clear on each team members strengths, passions, aligned to their role, how success can be measured and would your employee say the same things?


If you are unsure - listen to today's podcast with quick easy steps to find out if you are on the same page?

Apr 13, 202303:59
Ep 539 YMC: Retention is linked to Training and Development

Ep 539 YMC: Retention is linked to Training and Development

Decade after decade the data shows the direct correlation between employee satisfaction, engagement and retention to how well we train and development our team members. When they see the roadmap of grow and development on a continual basis - starting with day one onboarding and for years to come - they are more likely to stay with you for the long term. Today's longer term goes past 2 to 3 years.


Creating internal learning and developmnet universities for your company is the way to do just that. These are designed to provide specific knowledge (hard and soft) skills for your team members at all levels. Intentionally designed and tailored around your needs, your mission, your vision, your values, your strategies...why would you send them out to get - in hopes they bring back knowledge one person at a time.


Stop fighting the competition and create a different value proposition for your team. The results will blow you away. - In a GREAT way of course.

Apr 06, 202304:47
Ep 538 YMC: 5 Culture Trends in 2023

Ep 538 YMC: 5 Culture Trends in 2023

We are a few months into 2023 and these 5 Culture Trends are becoming more and more evident.


How are you doing with these trends? Do they hit home with you and your team? Something else showing up on your end? How are you managing / developing / leading through this trends - walls - barriers - change in workplace culture needs?


Trends:

1. Employees want more from work

2. We all want a community; it's important

3. Burnout at all levels

4. The need to know more, all angles, be a generalist, wearing many hats at all times

5. Connection with team, leader and organization - awards and recognition that align to those values and connections


Mar 28, 202305:59
Ep 537 YMC: Challenging Status Quo - Managing Up with Psychological Safety

Ep 537 YMC: Challenging Status Quo - Managing Up with Psychological Safety

Managing is hard period - managing up is or can be even harder. Going up stream is far more difficult than swimming downstream - wouldn't you agree.

Today's episode I discuss 3 challenges and suggestions to push through those challenges as you pivot with more grace - not to mention creating a deeper path towards a team with psychological safety.

Mar 23, 202305:44
Ep 537 YMC: Psychological Safety - where are you?

Ep 537 YMC: Psychological Safety - where are you?

How strongly do you believe that you can speak up with out fear of being punished or humiliated for sharing your ideas, questions, concerns, or mistakes at work? 

If you take a deep breath, pause or shout out NO then psychological safety probably isn't present in your workplace culture. 

If you answered with a resounding YES, then you and your team are above the norm and BRAVO - keep doing what you are doing. You are probably experiencing innovation and the speed of success you are hoping for on your team. You are asking questions, you have given out permission slips to say anything, all the time and it's working, you are listening, your are including others, and taking action.

Going back to those deep breaths, those of you that said NO or shook your head or maybe even laughed out loud - now you know what you are missing.

Enjoy today's podcast - it's 7.5 minutes long. I am here to add value to your day and to that of your team and organization. Let me know how I am doing.


Mar 16, 202308:18
Ep 536 YMC: Special Edition The Culture Hour - Saturday Morning Leadership

Ep 536 YMC: Special Edition The Culture Hour - Saturday Morning Leadership

Ep 536 brings you a special edition mash up The Culture Hour - Your Morning Commute - Raw Leadership called Saturday Morning Leadership with Elizabeth Veliz and myself, Shelley Smith.

We discuss the world today and why we are still talking about lack of retention, clear expectations, accountability and of course all things workplace culture and leadership. AND the intentional intersection of life today - all things personal and business. Not balance but reality and intentional interweaving. 

You can listen or watch this video special edition on all 3 podcasts and Premier Rapport Youtube Channel. We can't wait to hear your comments, thoughts, ideas and how your challenge went.

Mar 12, 202330:19
Ep 535 YMC: Change is all around us

Ep 535 YMC: Change is all around us

Change is a constant and I know you know that...how we tackle change is what can make or break a person or a team though.

Usually we don't call it out as direct as we should and that's when things start to go sideways.

Instead we have to get ahead of it and decide our intent and desire impact right from the beginning so we will know if the 'change' we started is yielding the 'change' we intended. It all goes back to what problem are we trying to solve right from the start.

  • Innovation
  • Disruption
  • Communication
  • Mindset
  • Planning
  • Motivation
Mar 07, 202303:57
Ep 534 YMC: Why is DEI so confusing?

Ep 534 YMC: Why is DEI so confusing?

Why is DEI so confusing?

The answer is not simple. DEI encompasses a wide range of topics, perspectives, and concepts related to diversity, equity, and inclusion. It can be difficult to understand the nuances and complexities of how these issues intersect with each other and our lives. There are often different interpretations of what DEI means in various contexts. This makes it difficult to create a unified understanding of the concept. DEI is often thought of as an abstract concept instead of something tangible and concrete, leading to confusion and misinformation. Language around DEI can vary drastically from organization to organization or even person to person, contributing further to confusion. Implementing meaningful DEI initiatives requires resources that many organizations may not have.

These challenges present a unique opportunity to create meaningful DEI initiatives that acknowledge and address these complexities. By engaging stakeholders throughout an organization in thoughtful conversations around the meaning of DEI, organizations can help build a shared understanding of both its definition and complexities. By using tools like surveys or focus groups, organizations can actively seek out the expertise of their employees and other stakeholders to ensure that any DEI initiatives are designed in an inclusive way.

Organizations need to recognize that meaningful DEI initiatives will require more than just policy changes or hiring experts — it requires a sustained commitment from all levels of the organization. This includes making sure that everyone understands the importance of DEI and has access to the resources they need to engage with it. 

Current trends are indicating many are pulling the plug on these programs...why - because they weren't understood, rolled out effectively and or misused. And that is a SHAME. If you are going to do something, do it right and make sure the intent and impact match. 

Feb 28, 202305:27
Ep 523 YMC: Levels of Professionalism and the Authentic You

Ep 523 YMC: Levels of Professionalism and the Authentic You

How do you define being professional?

Have you ever thought that being professional at times means showing up NOT as you? 

Stay with me here, last week I spent some time with an intern discussing this very topic. 

Authenticity can be a tricky topic to negotiate in the professional setting. It is important to be true to ourselves and our values, but sometimes it can come across as unprofessional or cause conflict with colleagues or customers. Striking the balance between being professional and staying authentic is a challenge that many of us face daily in our workplaces. It is important to understand that our best acts of professionalism may come from embracing our authenticity and using it as a source of strength. Authenticity may take practice, but it's an investment well worth making when used constructively in the professional sphere.

How are you showing up? Professional? Authentic? Boxed in? A smaller version of You?

Feb 20, 202303:48
Ep 522 YMC: Application Leadership

Ep 522 YMC: Application Leadership

How are you applying your leadership, on - the - daily?

Application Leadership is the equivalent of enrolling leadership school. Sure, you can watch all Youtube videos on the topic and there are books galore to read, but when it comes down to it, Application Leadership is applying what you’ve seen and read in real life situations. To me, Application Leadership means taking all the knowledge you’ve acquired throughout your years of study and practicing them in everyday scenarios. It means acting like a leader on an unconscious level by exhibiting admirable qualities that people naturally look towards with respect; courage, humility, charisma and trustworthiness. Application Leaders see life's challenges and use their creativity and problem-solving abilities to conquer them instead of give-up or run away from them. All in all, Application Leadership isn't about memorizing texts but rather putting into action what you've learned and resultantly inspiring others along the way.

Feb 14, 202302:38
Ep 521 YMC: Listening Leaders

Ep 521 YMC: Listening Leaders

Talk talk talk...

Many times that's what we do, when we need to listen, listen, listen

It's hard to find solutions when you are doing all the talking - are you a leader that talks or listens?

Today on the morning commute, I am asking just that, in hopes that more leaders will do less talking and more listening.

I kept it simple today - but listening can be hard...how are you doing in that arena?

Truth be told - I talk to much at times myself - assuming I know what's going to be asked and therefore quick to answer. Asking too many questions at one time and not be comfortable in the silence to allow others to think. I am working on it too and hope this inspires you to do the same.

Feb 06, 202303:39
Ep 520 YMC: Tyranny of the Urgent

Ep 520 YMC: Tyranny of the Urgent

There isn't enough time in the day...perhaps but can we, should we better manage the time we have?

Listen, I get it the days move fast and tasks pile up on the daily. But how often do we stop the madness and get off the hamster wheel to take a deeper look at the things keeping us 'busy'? 

Today on the 520th episode of #YourMorningCommute I speak on this topic and offer up 9 ways to better managed your time and achieve your goals. It doesn't take rocket science, but it does take discipline. 



Jan 27, 202307:15
Ep 519 YMC: What role does Scarcity play in your workplace culture

Ep 519 YMC: What role does Scarcity play in your workplace culture

What role does or can scarcity play in your workplace culture? It begins with how you define it and does it scare you. 

You mind does play tricks on you if you let it. What is perceived as scarce could be an opportunity knocking. It depends on how you and your team approaches it.

While it may be tempting to focus on abundance when running a business, it is also important to consider how scarcity plays a role in workplace culture. As employers, understanding the impact of scarcity on how you manage your employees can help create an atmosphere that encourages growth and productivity.

Today's quick podcast focus' on this very topic.

Jan 23, 202303:50
Ep 518 YMC: Great Resignation a Myth?

Ep 518 YMC: Great Resignation a Myth?

Is the great resignation a myth?  

Now that I have your attention - what I mean is - do people really not want to work anymore, or do they just don't want to work for you or the organization?

Today on the 518th episode of #YourMorningCommute I go on a big of a rant to challenge what you are being told or hear, or chose to hear about why team members resign or become disengaged or even - dare say - only work while on the clock and not a minute after. (how dare they, lol)

I can't wait to hear what this morning topic sparks in you.


Jan 17, 202305:02
Ep 517 YMC: When a Crisis Happens

Ep 517 YMC: When a Crisis Happens

A nationwide air-traffic shutdown by the FAA - talk about a public crisis - well there you have it.

I was one of the unlucky caught in that travel nightmare recently. After 15 hours that was supposed to be 5 hours, I witnessed a lot and reflected on how well leaders do or do not prepare their staff for things when it ALL goes wrong. This of course on the heels of SouthWest Airlines holiday breakdown still fresh in travelers minds. 

So, how are you discussing and preparing your team for 'breakdowns'? Are you ready? Will the strength of your culture support the weight of the crisis?


Jan 13, 202304:52
Ep 516 YMC: Small talk with the 3 E's

Ep 516 YMC: Small talk with the 3 E's

Chit Chat - Small Talk - does it get in your way or help move you forward????

Some say it isn't necessary and we don't have time for that - hog wash - we do and we must. Continuous Improvement often happens through those small and impromptu connections. 

Today on the 516th episode of #YourMorningCommute I talk about this and the connection to your #workplaceculture and how we educate, engage and excite ourselves and those we are around. Yep, it's a culture thing. 

Jan 05, 202303:20
Ep 515 YMC: Word of the Year - Kaizen

Ep 515 YMC: Word of the Year - Kaizen

For the past 5 years I have chosen a word of the year to focus on. This year is no different. I have chosen Kaizen this year. Keeping it simple, it means continue improvement - going broader it means so much more especially in our workplace culture. What is your word of the year? How will you stay on track with it?

Jan 03, 202303:15