Lead the People

In this episode, Commander William C. Spears of the U.S. Navy joins the show to share leadership lessons forged under pressure, from commanding nuclear submarines to building resilient, high-performing teams. He reflects on what it means to lead with trust, humility, and a mission-first mindset, offering tactical insights from over two decades in the Navy. Commander Spears unpacks the difference between compliance and commitment, the critical importance of psychological safety, and why character always outlasts charisma. He also explores how today’s leaders can foster accountability, push through chaos, and build cultures of excellence that outlast any one individual. Key Takeaways: Trust is the foundation of strong leadership. Leaders should aim for commitment, not just compliance. Psychological safety allows teams to think and speak freely. Character is more lasting than charisma. Clear plans help teams perform under pressure. From Our Sponsor: The Predictive Index (PI) is an award-winning talent optimization platform that aligns business strategy with people strategy for optimal business results. More than 60 years of proven science, software, and a curriculum of insightful management workshops make PI the solution for any company looking to design great teams and culture, make objective hiring decisions, foster engagement, and inspire greatness in their people anywhere in the world. More than 10,000 clients and 480+ partners use PI—including Nissan, Citizens Bank, Subway, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Omni Hotels—across 90+ countries. Learn more at predictiveindex.com. Additional Resources: CDR William C. Spears Stoicism as a Warrior Philosophy (book): https://a.co/d/1uxjZHa Website: https://williamcspears.com LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/william-spears-89130443/ Follow Matt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattpoepsel/ Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network/posts/?feedView=all Learn more about PeopleForward Network: http://www.peopleforwardnetwork.com/

In this episode, workplace culture experts Sara Escobar and Corinne Murray join the show to challenge outdated ideas about culture, design, and how organizations actually function. Drawing from their experience building people-centered environments at scale, they unpack why culture isn’t a vibe; it’s a system, and how thoughtful infrastructure can transform how people show up at work. From exploring the invisible forces that shape behavior to redefining how we think about belonging, Sara and Corinne share actionable ways leaders can co-create better ecosystems, not just experiences. They also dig into the tension between fast-moving culture and long-term change, the role of physical and digital environments, and why copying Google’s office design doesn’t make your company innovative. Key Takeaways: Culture needs to be intentionally designed, not left to chance. Belonging happens when systems and behaviors align. You cannot copy-paste another company’s culture. Real connection requires more than just physical or digital spaces. Sustainable change comes from small, consistent actions. From Our Sponsor: The Predictive Index (PI) is an award-winning talent optimization platform that aligns business strategy with people strategy for optimal business results. More than 60 years of proven science, software, and a curriculum of insightful management workshops make PI the solution for any company looking to design great teams and culture, make objective hiring decisions, foster engagement, and inspire greatness in their people anywhere in the world. More than 10,000 clients and 480+ partners use PI—including Nissan, Citizens Bank, Subway, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Omni Hotels—across 90+ countries. Learn more at predictiveindex.com. Additional Resources: Read WORK Then Place: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1960299972 Follow Sara on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/saraescoux/ Follow Corinne on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/corinnejmurray/ Follow Matt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattpoepsel/ Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network/posts/?feedView=all Learn more about PeopleForward Network: http://www.peopleforwardnetwork.com/

In this episode, ManageUp founder and CEO Ash Hynie joins the show to rehumanize the way we think about leadership, feedback, and performance. With a background in culinary arts, engineering, and HR, Ash shares how her journey shaped a people-first approach to leadership. She explains how many managers are promoted without preparation, and how systemic issues like bias and lack of visibility hold employees back. From “last in, first out” layoffs to recency bias in performance reviews, Ash explores how tech can help managers make fairer, faster decisions. Using real-time data and contextual insights, ManageUp supports feedback that aligns with both company values and individual growth. Key Takeaways: Many managers are promoted without preparation or support Feedback works best when it’s timely and practical AI helps reduce bias and surface hidden impact Promotions reward visibility, not always contribution Marginalized groups are being laid off at record rates From Our Sponsor: The Predictive Index (PI) is an award-winning talent optimization platform that aligns business strategy with people strategy for optimal business results. More than 60 years of proven science, software, and a curriculum of insightful management workshops make PI the solution for any company looking to design great teams and culture, make objective hiring decisions, foster engagement, and inspire greatness in their people anywhere in the world. More than 10,000 clients and 480+ partners use PI—including Nissan, Citizens Bank, Subway, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Omni Hotels—across 90+ countries. Learn more at predictiveindex.com. Additional Resources: Ash Hynie, Founder & CEO, ManageUP: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ash-hynie/ ManageUp: http://www.manageup.com/ Follow Matt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattpoepsel/ Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network/posts/?feedView=all Learn more about PeopleForward Network: http://www.peopleforwardnetwork.com/ 

In this episode, bestselling author and introvert-at-work expert Jennifer Kahnweiler joins the show to reframe how we think about leadership, presence, and performance in the workplace. Drawing from her updated book The Introverted Leader and years of coaching introverted professionals, Jennifer pushes back on the extrovert-biased norms that dominate many workplaces, from meeting culture to hiring and promotion. She makes the case for creating introvert-friendly environments, where silence isn’t mistaken for disengagement and preparation is treated as a strength. From her 4 Ps framework (Prepare, Presence, Push, Practice) to strategies for balancing team energy, Jennifer shares research-backed insights and practical tactics for managers and individual contributors alike. Key Takeaways: Introverts lead best when they can prepare and reflect. Simple tools like agendas and breakouts create inclusion. Bias, not ability, often holds introverts back. The 4 Ps help introverts lead with confidence. Trust starts with 1:1 connection and thoughtful design. From Our Sponsor: The Predictive Index (PI) is an award-winning talent optimization platform that aligns business strategy with people strategy for optimal business results. More than 60 years of proven science, software, and a curriculum of insightful management workshops make PI the solution for any company looking to design great teams and culture, make objective hiring decisions, foster engagement, and inspire greatness in their people anywhere in the world. More than 10,000 clients and 480+ partners use PI—including Nissan, Citizens Bank, Subway, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Omni Hotels—across 90+ countries. Learn more at predictiveindex.com. Additional Resources: Jennifer Kahnweiler's Book: https://www.amazon.com/Introverted-Leader-3rd-Building-Strength/dp/B0DHWS7K35 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenniferkahnweiler/ Website: https://jenniferkahnweiler.com/ Follow Matt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattpoepsel/ Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network/posts/ Learn more about PeopleForward Network: http://www.peopleforwardnetwork.com/ 

In this episode, futurist, bestselling author, and keynote speaker Jacob Morgan joins the show to challenge today’s assumptions about employee experience. Drawing from his new book, “The 8 Laws of Employee Experience”, Jacob argues that work has drifted into entitlement culture, where accountability is low, standards are blurred, and perks have replaced purpose. He makes the case for a reset: employee experience is not about yoga rooms or snack bars, but about the mutual exchange of value between people and organizations. From the dangers of abandoning accountability to the need for cultural clarity and resilience, Jacob shares the principles leaders must return to if they want to build future-ready companies. Key Takeaways: Employee experience is about mutual value exchange, not perks . Standards, accountability, and responsibility must return to the workplace. Perks like wellness programs can’t replace strong leadership and growth opportunities. Culture succeeds when it has clarity and consistency, not when it tries to please everyone. The future of work demands resilience, maturity, and purpose at the center. From Our Sponsor: The Predictive Index (PI) is an award-winning talent optimization platform that aligns business strategy with people strategy for optimal business results. More than 60 years of proven science, software, and a curriculum of insightful management workshops make PI the solution for any company looking to design great teams and culture, make objective hiring decisions, foster engagement, and inspire greatness in their people anywhere in the world. More than 10,000 clients and 480+ partners use PI—including Nissan, Citizens Bank, Subway, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Omni Hotels—across 90+ countries. Learn more at predictiveindex.com. Additional Resources: Jacob's book The 8 Laws of Employee Experience: https://www.amazon.com/Employee-Experience-Advantage-Jacob-Morgan/dp/1394273991/ Jacob's website: https://thefutureorganization.com/ Follow Matt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattpoepsel/ Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network/posts/ Learn more about PeopleForward Network: http://www.peopleforwardnetwork.com/ 

Andrew Hartman, founder of Time Boss, dives into effective time management strategies after experiencing burnout. He emphasizes treating time like cash, advocating for prioritization, and creating commitment plans to foster emotional margin. Andrew discusses the pitfalls of cognitive overload and the importance of delegation. He introduces the concept of chaos buffering to handle unpredictability, and encourages leaders to focus on outcomes rather than performative tasks. His practical approach helps reclaim control over personal and professional time.

In this episode, Matt Ley, Co-Founder of IPN Advisors and author of Manage Your Gaps, joins the show to explore how fulfillment, energy, and effective management intersect to drive purpose and performance. He shares how his concept of Fulfillment ROI helps leaders and teams track the energy they invest and the value they receive, revealing simple shifts that can lead to more meaningful, energized work. From his EPIC management model to redefining the difference between rock stars and rising stars, Matt offers a fresh take on what it means to lead well, stay grounded, and thrive in your role. Key Takeaways: Fulfillment happens when the value you get from work outweighs the energy you put in. Tracking daily energy and value reveals patterns that affect motivation and burnout. The EPIC model helps managers create clarity, alignment, and momentum. Leaders should support both rising stars chasing growth and rock stars who thrive in their current role. Management isn’t about doing more. It’s about enabling others to create more value. From Our Sponsor: The Predictive Index (PI) is an award-winning talent optimization platform that aligns business strategy with people strategy for optimal business results. More than 60 years of proven science, software, and a curriculum of insightful management workshops make PI the solution for any company looking to design great teams and culture, make objective hiring decisions, foster engagement, and inspire greatness in their people anywhere in the world. More than 10,000 clients and 480+ partners use PI—including Nissan, Citizens Bank, Subway, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Omni Hotels—across 90+ countries. Learn more at predictiveindex.com. Additional Resources: Matt Ley | Co-Founder, IPN Advisors & Author, “Manage Your Gaps”: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattley/ https://www.ipnadvisors.com/ Follow Matt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattpoepsel/ Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network/posts/?feedView=all Learn more about PeopleForward Network: http://www.peopleforwardnetwork.com/

After years of hosting this podcast and interviewing incredible leaders, I've identified the tools that solve the most common manager challenges: lack of time, uncertainty about doing things right, and feeling constantly behind. #6: BetterUp - Develop People Proactively A scalable coaching platform that helps managers develop both themselves and their direct reports through professional coaching technology, creating accountability and boosting follow-through. https://betterup.com #7: Ramp - Streamline Financial Management An expense management platform that automates financial tasks, saving precious leadership time by making expense tracking painless and preserving time for people-focused activities. https://ramp.com #8: Miro - Communicate Visually An unlimited canvas collaboration tool that transforms meetings through visual brainstorming, levels the playing field for all team members, and works seamlessly across remote, hybrid, and in-person settings. https://miro.com #9: Zapier - Automate Routine Tasks An integration platform that connects hundreds of tools, automating repetitive tasks and enabling leaders to focus on personal branding and strategic relationship building. https://zapier.com #10: Reclaim.ai - Master Your Calendar A time management tool that syncs multiple calendars, provides productivity analytics, and transforms your calendar from foe to friend through intelligent scheduling and automated time blocking. https://reclaim.ai Be sure to check out tools 1-5 in my last episode! From Our Sponsor: The Predictive Index (PI) is an award-winning talent optimization platform that aligns business strategy with people strategy for optimal business results. More than 60 years of proven science, software, and a curriculum of insightful management workshops make PI the solution for any company looking to design great teams and culture, make objective hiring decisions, foster engagement, and inspire greatness in their people anywhere in the world. More than 10,000 clients and 480+ partners use PI—including Nissan, Citizens Bank, Subway, Blue Cross Blue Shield, and Omni Hotels—across 90+ countries. Learn more at predictiveindex.com. Additional Resources: Follow Matt on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mattpoepsel/ Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/peopleforward-network/posts/?feedView=all Learn more about PeopleForward Network: http://www.peopleforwardnetwork.com/ 

Discover essential tools for effective leadership! From mastering tasks with Todoist to continuous learning via MasterClass, these resources tackle common managerial challenges. Learn how to prioritize mental health at work with Spring Health, and create a culture of recognition using Prezzee's flexible gift cards. Enhance your storytelling skills with Canva, allowing anyone to craft stunning visuals. Tune in to uncover strategies that help leaders stay organized, engaged, and supportive!

Mike Zani, CEO of The Predictive Index and author of The Science of Dream Teams, dives into the intersection of behavioral science and team dynamics. He reveals that most hiring failures stem from poor fit rather than lack of skills. Leaders can leverage data to enhance trust, engagement, and communication. Zani emphasizes the importance of personalized leadership development and cultivating a culture of feedback. Ultimately, talent optimization is a leadership responsibility, crucial for any organization aimed at growth.