Shows
Lessons in LeadershipThe Power of Radical Candor: Lessons from Kim Scott's BestsellerJoin Ryan Fernandez as he delves into the transformative power of clear communication in leadership, inspired by Kim Scott’s book, "Radical Candor." Discover how genuine conversations can reshape organizational culture, drive performance, and benefit both leaders and their teams.
Explore compelling stories from the book, including the tale of "Bob," whose performance issues were overlooked due to a lack of direct communication, and learn about the importance of balancing care and directness to foster a thriving work environment.
Draw lessons from Google’s early days and their cultural practices that celebrate open communication and lear...2025-05-3024 minLessons in LeadershipBeyond Motivation: Embracing Employee Engagement for SuccessIn this episode of Lessons in Leadership, presented by Ryan Fernandez, we explore the evolution from motivation to engagement in workplaces. Delving into the past influences of motivational strategies, the discussion highlights the shortcomings of quick fixes like motivational speeches and superficial incentives. The focus now shifts to genuine engagement, a more holistic approach that considers the environment, incentives, management, and individual potential to foster an energized workforce.
We delve into renowned research by William Kahn and the contributions from the Gallup Group, uncovering the significance of understanding employee engagement on productivity, customer service, turnover, and profitability...2025-05-0838 minLessons in LeadershipUnlocking Success: The Three-Step Coaching FormulaIn this episode of "Lessons in Leadership" with Ryan Fernandez, discover the core principles of effective coaching and goal achievement. The journey begins with setting clear, tangible goals that align with your personal or organizational vision. Learn the importance of a robust process and strategic roadmap to propel you towards these objectives efficiently.
Explore inspiring historical examples, including the contrasting stories of explorers Robert Falcon Scott and Roald Amundsen, and how their differing strategies influenced their journeys to the South Pole. Gain insights into modern methods from Discovery Health's engaging health systems to understand how consistent processes...2025-04-2427 minLessons in LeadershipThe Core Value Conundrum: Are We Truly Aligned?Welcome to "Lessons in Leadership," where we delve into transformative stories that challenge our understanding of success within organizations. Hosted by Ryan Fernandez, this episode questions the pervasive use of core values as mere buzzwords. Discover how genuine core values should differentiate and propel a business, rather than serve as hollow expressions.
The episode takes a critical look at typical organizational values like respect, integrity, and excellence, often termed "permission to play" values—bare minimums required to function in a business ecosystem. Learn how true core values are vital for creating a dynamic culture that differentiates businesses fr...2025-04-0829 minLessons in LeadershipThe Workplace Isn't Your Family: A Leadership LessonIn this episode of "Lessons in Leadership," host Ryan Fernandez delves into the complex relationship between work culture and family dynamics, exploring why workplace environments should not be equated to a familial structure. Through thoughtful analysis, he highlights the dangers of blurred boundaries, the importance of maintaining professional relationships, and how organizations can foster a healthy, supportive culture without crossing into manipulative practices. Drawing on real-life examples, Ryan shares insights on how companies like Barry Wehmiller, under the leadership of Bob Chapman, successfully integrate family-inspired values without confusing roles and expectations. Tune in to learn how to create a...2025-03-2832 minLessons in LeadershipBeyond 'Family': Building a Human-Centered WorkplaceThis episode explores the dangers of companies that overemphasize the "we're a family" mentality, often leading to manipulation and blurred boundaries. It contrasts this with the story of Bob Chapman, CEO of Barry-Wehmiller, who transformed his leadership style to prioritize the value of his employees as individuals. The episode highlights Chapman's innovative approach during the 2008 economic crisis, where instead of layoffs, he implemented a voluntary unpaid leave program, empowering employees and ultimately leading to increased productivity and a record year. The key takeaway is the importance of intentional, human-centered leadership that values employees beyond their output and fosters a...2025-03-2833 minLessons in Leadership"Unveiling the Power of Purpose: Revamping Your Mission Statement"In this episode of Lessons in Leadership, host Ryan Fernandez explores the critical role of mission statements in driving organizational success. Delving into the intricacies of the Dunder Mifflin mission statement, he uncovers the pitfalls of generic corporate declarations. The discussion transitions to Disney's powerful mission, "Where Magic Happens," highlighting its influence during crises like Hurricane Katrina. Ryan shares insights from Simon Sinek's "golden circle" concept, emphasizing the importance of defining "why" to inspire teams. Tune in to discover how clear, inspiring missions can unite people and propel organizations towards unprecedented success.
2025-02-2817 minLessons in LeadershipNelson Mandela and the Springbok RevolutionThis episode explores the monumental moment in South African history when Nelson Mandela, newly elected as President, donned a Springbok rugby jersey and presented the World Cup trophy in 1995, symbolizing a new era for South African unity and transformation. It delves into the journey of rugby in South Africa, highlighting both the struggles and breakthroughs in diversity within the sport.
We examine the critical role of Siya Kolisi as the first black Springbok captain, his inspirational rise from humble beginnings, and how his leadership has been pivotal in changing the dynamics of the Springbok team from 2018 onwards...2025-02-0745 minLessons in LeadershipTurning the Tide: The Rise of South African Rugby with Rassie ErasmusIn this episode of Lessons in Leadership, host Ryan Fernandez explores the extraordinary turnaround of the South African national rugby team, the Springboks, under the leadership of coach Rassie Erasmus. After a devastating loss to New Zealand in 2017, the team found themselves in disarray and lacking direction. The episode delves into Rassie's innovative approaches, including data-driven strategies and focusing on the inherent strengths of the team.
Learn about Rassie's journey from a player to a successful coach who transformed teams like the Cheetahs and the Springboks by leveraging local talent and overturning entrenched rugby norms. Discover how...2025-01-3135 min