Description

In this compelling episode of “I Know I Belong When,” host Christopher Bylone welcomes John Ferguson, a strategic business executive, former Chief Human Resources Officer at NASCAR, and recognized leader in people strategy and inclusive culture. Together, they delve deeply into the power of unedited identity, exploring how your name, your story, and your authentic voice shape your sense of belonging at work and in life.

This episode is more than a conversation—it’s a movement. John Ferguson shares his journey from “Mom and Dad LLC” to the C-suite, revealing how foundational lessons, family legacy, and intentional leadership have guided his path. The dialogue is rich with actionable insights for leaders, HR professionals, and anyone seeking to foster a culture where every voice is valued and every story matters.

Must-Hear Insights and Key Moments

• Belonging Starts with Identity: John Ferguson and Christopher Bylone unpack the significance of names as carriers of legacy, meaning, and respect. Getting someone’s name right isn’t just etiquette—it’s a declaration: “You belong here.”

• The Power of Story: Listeners are invited into formative moments—family businesses, church announcements, and pivotal career transitions—that shaped John Ferguson’s leadership philosophy.

• Voice as a Tool for Inclusion: The episode explores how using your voice can amplify belonging. John Ferguson emphasizes the responsibility of leaders to “make the room bigger for others,” sharing practical strategies for inviting new voices and ensuring everyone is heard. The “W.A.I.T.” rule (“Why Am I Talking? Why Aren’t I Talking?”) offers a memorable framework for inclusive conversations.

• Navigating Insider/Outsider Dynamics: John Ferguson candidly discusses moments of exclusion and offers actionable advice for both newcomers and anchors: lead with transparency, seek common ground, and build relationships.

• Leadership Lessons for Culture Builders: For HR leaders and executives, the episode delivers a blueprint for creating cultures of belonging. John Ferguson advocates for starting with a “listening tour,” lowering the waterline to foster connection, and being intentional about relationship-building.

Standout Quotes

“There are times where people have to learn through making the mistake. There were plenty of times when Mom told me that iron is hot. I didn’t believe it. I had to touch it to realize it was hot. And so sometimes the best lessons in life are the ones that you might have scraped your knees on.” – John Ferguson

“Never lose the essence of who you are. But I also think that in being your authentic self, there’s a time and place for certain aspects of who we are to show up as well.” – John Ferguson

“The L in leadership stands for listen. And that can be challenging for us extroverts. We’re excited to share about this and that. But I think any time you enter a new environment, you have to ground yourself in a listening tour.” – John Ferguson

“If you are an anchor in that space, invite them into that conversation. And if you are someone new to the room, the people that are anchors to that room, I feel like have the same obligation to you, to pull you in.” – John Ferguson

Why Listen?

This episode is essential for anyone passionate about diversity, equity, and inclusion, leadership development, or personal growth. You’ll walk away with practical tips for championing belonging, honoring identity, and using your voice to create spaces where everyone feels seen, heard, and valued.