Discover the secrets to mastering inclusive leadership through feedback with our special guest, Ama Agyapong, famously known as "that inclusion lady." Imagine transforming your workplace culture by harnessing the power of feedback to boost productivity and engagement. Ama takes us on her personal journey from being an outsider to becoming an expert in creating feedback-driven environments. Her unique insights from her time as an EEOC investigator reveal the incredible impact of effective feedback on team dynamics and organizational success.

Explore the nuances of communication that foster an inclusive atmosphere. We discuss valuable tools like the DISC assessment, helping to tailor interactions by recognizing individual work styles. Ama shares practical techniques and frameworks, such as the Socratic method and the five whys, to elevate questioning skills, particularly in technical fields. Expect to learn strategic ways to avoid defensiveness and promote open dialogues, enhancing collaboration in your teams.

In our final segment, we delve into actionable strategies for impactful recognition and appreciation. Ama introduces frameworks like the "Listen, Validate, and Formulate" method and the IRTI model to ensure feedback is not just heard but transformed into growth opportunities. Highlighting cultural and generational differences, we discuss transitioning from traditional leadership roles to more coaching-focused approaches. Through personal anecdotes and expert advice, Ama illustrates how conveying belief in a person’s potential can inspire tremendous growth, leaving you equipped to foster a nurturing environment for your team. Join us to uncover these transformative insights and become a catalyst for positive change within your organization.

Inclusion Enterprises

Christopher Filipiak, a former engineer turned sales consultant, brings a refreshing perspective to the crossroads of engineering and sales in our latest episode. As he shares his evolution from Ford Motor Company engineer to a guiding force for CEOs, Christopher reveals how the principles of Lean Six Sigma have seamlessly translated into his unique sales strategy. With an emphasis on reducing waste and enhancing processes, he helps leaders align their business strategies with desired outcomes, showcasing the power of system sophistication. Christopher's journey is a testament to the transformative potential of applying engineering mindset to the sales domain, making it an insightful listen for any leader seeking to optimize their business operations.

We also explore the psychological hurdles technical leaders often face with sales, unraveling societal narratives that contribute to this discomfort. Christopher sheds light on the SPIRIT framework, which has been pivotal in his coaching approach, driving both personal and professional growth. His collaboration with coach Tristan has not only honed his skills but also spurred significant business development by fostering authenticity and alignment with personal values. Highlighting the importance of recognizing a coach's values and sacrifices, Christopher's mission empowers CEOs to embrace their true selves and master financial competencies, crafting a company culture deeply rooted in these principles.

Can corporate culture be intentionally constructed to align with organizational goals, or is it an elusive concept that simply evolves? Our latest Voices in Leadership episode promises to enlighten you with insights from Matthew Pearson of Town Square Advisors. With a career that spans from the sports industry to investment banking and now to strategic advising, Matthew shares his valuable experiences and the lessons he's distilled in his book, "Culture of Alignment." Join us as we explore the Square Management System and the necessity of a bespoke cultural framework that resonates with a company’s distinct values and needs. Matthew's perspective challenges the conventional view of culture as an undefined ethos, providing a roadmap for leaders looking to foster a cohesive and purpose-driven organizational environment.

Furthermore, we tackle the intriguing notion of intentional versus unintentional culture. Matthew delves into how intentional cultural design can lead to streamlined operations and employee alignment, addressing the skepticism that surrounds this approach, particularly in vast, complex organizations. We discuss the risks of blindly emulating successful companies without grasping their unique cultural elements. This episode inspires leaders to move beyond mere imitation, advocating for a strategic cultural alignment that truly supports growth, engagement, and success across all levels of a business. Tune in to discover how intentional culture can become a foundation for achieving organizational excellence.

To learn more, see Townsquare Advisors