Management Development Unlocked - Management & Leadership Training

On this episode of Management Development Unlocked, Eric sits down with Matt Gjertsen, the founder and Chief Learning Officer of Better Every Day Studios. Better Every Day Studios aims to transform how companies view talent development by building custom training solutions that deliver business results for organizations. Matt uses what he learned as an instructor pilot in the U.S. Air Force and a SpaceX manager as a foundation for his training and development solutions. In this episode, you’ll hear:Matt Gjertsen’s background in the U.S. Air Force and SpaceX, which laid the foundation for how he thinks about training and development.How Matt defines behavior-based training and the four levels of training evaluation using the Kirkpatrick Model.Why culture is just an accumulation of behaviors within an organization.The differences between behavior-based training and “normal” training and coaching.The three realms of practice: naive, purposeful, and deliberate, and why they are critical elements for a manager.How managers can apply behavior-based training with their teams.Identifying the gap between desired performance and current performance to focus your training.What Matt Gjertsen’s company does and the new products they offer help hiring managers and interviewers.Connect with Matt Gjertsen:LinkedInWebsitePodcastPeak by Anders Ericsson---Head over to girardtrainingsolutions.com to take a look at the 20+ courses I offer for new and experienced managers! Get your copy of the Amazon #1 Bestseller and #1 New Release Lead Like a Pro - The Essential Guide for New Managers while you’re there!Connect with me on LinkedIn.Please subscribe and comment!

Today’s Management Development Unlocked features Wendy Pfeiffer, an executive in technology roles for the past 30 years. Wendy’s career focus is on the intersection of technology and business operations. Her goal has always been to help companies and people use technology for all their purposes. She primarily focuses on assisting mid-level and senior executives in developing and learning how to master the tech they operate.Eric and Wendy explore the mistakes she made in her first management role, the three lessons she learned about being a good leader, how she implements Stephen Covey’s Seven Habits of Highly Effective People in guiding teams, and why leaders should strive to create long-term relationships with their teams.This episode is all about establishing good leadership habits--advice new managers won’t want to miss.In this episode, you’ll hear:Wendy Pfeiffer’s background working at the intersection of technology and business and teaching mid-level and senior executives to master the tech they operate.The mistakes Wendy made in her first management role and how she handled devastating criticism from an employee.Three lessons she learned about being a good leader from that first management role.Why you should strive to advance to higher levels of management and the changing goals as you move up the ranks.Wendy Pfeiffer’s use of Stephen Covey’s Seven Habits of Highly Effective People to guide teams.Empathy’s role in management success and the loyalty it encourages from your team.Creating long-term relationships with your team and why they’re the secret sauce to your success recipe.What Wendy loves about the Great British Baking Show and humility as a superpower.Connect with Wendy Pfeiffer:LinkedIn---Head over to girardtrainingsolutions.com to take a look at the 20+ courses I offer for new and experienced managers! Get your copy of the Amazon #1 Bestseller and #1 New Release Lead Like a Pro - The Essential Guide for New Managers while you’re there!Connect with me on LinkedIn.Please subscribe and comment!

On this episode of Management Development Unlocked, Eric sits down with Asian American inclusivity expert Jolene Jang. Jolene is a fourth-generation American with Japanese, Chinese, and Swedish heritage. As an Asian American, she recognizes that Asian Americans are left out of many conversations and is working to change that. During her career in organizational development, she’s spent a lot of time building teams and performing motivational speaking, and she will soon release a podcast. In this episode, you’ll hear:Jolene Jang’s background as a fourth-generation Asian-American, building teams, and motivational speaking.Eric’s response to Jolene’s question: Why does diversity matter to Girard Training Solutions?Why it’s valuable to companies to recognize diversity and expand their markets beyond their traditional customer profiles.Current demographics in the United States and how those statistics will change by 2045. The companies finding success by marketing to Asian Americans and how they’re doing it.Jolene’s advice for new managers who want to be more respectful to their employees and customers.Connect with Jolene Jang:LinkedInWebsiteYouTubeBecome an Asian Ally---Head over to girardtrainingsolutions.com to take a look at the 20+ courses I offer for new and experienced managers! Get your copy of the Amazon #1 Bestseller and #1 New Release Lead Like a Pro - The Essential Guide for New Managers while you’re there!Connect with me on LinkedIn.Please subscribe and comment!

On today’s Management Development Unlocked, Eric speaks with Matt Abrahams. Matt is a lecturer at Stanford’s Graduate School of Business, where he teaches strategic communication. He is also an author with a new book called Think Faster, Talk Smarter, and the host of a podcast by the same name. Matt is passionate about communication and helping others find their confidence and voice to speak up without freaking out.In this episode, you’ll hear:Matt Abrahams’ explanation of the impact of effective communication on personal and professional success and how it affects new managers.The goal for new managers should be to connect, no matter who their audience is.Matt’s three-question structure to make communication more effective.The three steps to becoming a better listener.Two curses we all suffer from and the antidote to both.How having good boundaries can help you manage FOMO (fear of missing out).Steps new managers can take to write better for busy readers, according to Matt Abrahams.Matt’s new book, Think Faster, Talk Smarter, and what you can expect to learn from it.Some fun facts about Matt.Connect with Matt Abrahams:WebsiteLinkedInYouTubeThink Faster, Talk Smarter book---Head over to girardtrainingsolutions.com to take a look at the 20+ courses I offer for new and experienced managers! Get your copy of the Amazon #1 Bestseller and #1 New Release Lead Like a Pro - The Essential Guide for New Managers while you’re there!Connect with me on LinkedIn.Please subscribe and comment!

Today’s episode of Management Development Unlocked features Gerardo Segat. Gerardo spent 20 years as the Chairman and CEO of a family office business before starting a leadership coaching business in 2017. Over the past decade, he has been a member of the Young Presidents’ Organization, the world’s largest community of leaders and CEOs. He has served as a serial chapter chair and founder of YPO. In his current business, Gerardo created a corporate leadership program, a magazine interview format, and a decisional debate format for a postgraduate training program. His latest creation is a performing arts show to humanize authentic leaders.A fun fact to know about Gerardo is that he is a heli-skier and a DJ.In this episode, you’ll hear:Gerardo Segat’s background as a CEO and entrepreneur and his move into the leadership space in 2017.The two approaches leaders can use to flip a fear into a pinnacle of strength.The value of self-awareness in leadership and recognizing your triggers for reacting in a particular way.Why AI can’t out-human a human and Gerardo’s thoughts on AI’s future.How deep authenticity and human connection impact a leader’s behavior and performance, and leading by example.The steps leaders can take to move away from harmful, defensive behaviors and toward a state of courage and fulfillment.What Gerardo says leaders need to captivate and inspire other leaders to be the best versions of themselves.Connect with Gerardo Segat:LinkedInWebsite---Head over to girardtrainingsolutions.com to take a look at the 20+ courses I offer for new and experienced managers! Get your copy of the Amazon #1 Bestseller and #1 New Release Lead Like a Pro - The Essential Guide for New Managers while you’re there!Connect with me on LinkedIn.Please subscribe and comment!

Eric sits down with Cath Song, Human Resources Business Partner at Baidu, on this episode of Management Development Unlocked. Cath has more than six years of experience in the HR world and is a results-driven strategic thinker with a global background. Her company, Baidu, is a Google competitor emphasizing AI and is one of the biggest search engines in the world.In this episode, you’ll hear:Cath Song’s position with Baidu USA and what Baidu does.What a human resources business partner is and how she became an HRBP.The role of an HRBP at Baidu and what new managers should know about working with an HRBP.How new managers engage with human resources business partners during day-to-day business and the expertise they can provide.Why you should form a relationship with your HRBP as soon as you step into your new management role and the coaching you can receive from them.The most important things a new manager should know about hiring in tech.Some considerations when hiring an expat manager including their finances and benefits that the job could impact.Connect with Cath Song:LinkedInInstagram---Head over to girardtrainingsolutions.com to take a look at the 20+ courses I offer for new and experienced managers! Get your copy of the Amazon #1 Bestseller and #1 New Release Lead Like a Pro - The Essential Guide for New Managers while you’re there!Connect with me on LinkedIn.Please subscribe and comment!

On today’s Management Development Unlocked, Eric interviews Roger Martin, co-founder and CEO of ThriveMore Brands. ThriveMore is a platform company with franchise brands under its umbrella, including RockBox Fitness and beem® Light Sauna. They also have a nutrition company and are discussing bringing an overseas franchise concept to America. The company employs 27 people in its home office.In this episode, you’ll hear:Roger Martin’s company, ThriveMore Brands, and an overview of what it does.His tips for overcoming imposter syndrome and why you’re probably not growing if you haven’t experienced it.What competency-selective interviewing tactics are, and how they contrast with just using your gut to hire.The impact of AI in the workplace and what makes it a powerful tool.How managers deal with failure, take responsibility for it, and work to fix the problem at the speed of trust.Psychological safety and the value of feeling safe to make mistakes and grow.The franchise brands that make up ThriveMore Brands and the goal of those brands.Connect with Roger Martin:LinkedInThriveMore BrandsInstagramTikTokTwitter/X---Head over to girardtrainingsolutions.com to take a look at the 20+ courses I offer for new and experienced managers! Get your copy of the Amazon #1 Bestseller and #1 New Release Lead Like a Pro - The Essential Guide for New Managers while you’re there!Connect with me on LinkedIn.Please subscribe and comment!

Today, on Management Development Unlocked, Eric interviews success coach Nathalie Pincham. Nathalie specializes in coaching ambitious, vision-driven founders and leaders. She is also the host of the Your Success Tonic podcast and founder of Story Tonic. As a high achiever herself, Nathalie helps her clients redefine success on their own terms instead of with a set of traditional achievements.In this episode, you’ll hear:How Nathalie Pincham defines a high achiever and its impact on her personal and professional journeys.Nathalie’s process for helping her clients define success on their own terms instead of with a set of traditional achievements.Overcoming self-doubt and imposter syndrome as high achievers transitioning into leadership roles.Why sharing your experience can help others connect and empathize with you.What energy leadership is and why Nathalie believes it can increase your personal and leadership potential.The value of emotional intelligence in the workplace.Her advice for avoiding burnout at work even as you maintain high performance.Why good time management plays a vital role in preventing burnout.Having people you can turn to in your life who offer support in different ways.Nathalie’s success advantage quiz.Connect with Nathalie Pincham:WebsitePodcastLinkedInInstagram---Head over to girardtrainingsolutions.com to take a look at the 20+ courses I offer for new and experienced managers! Get your copy of the Amazon #1 Bestseller and #1 New Release Lead Like a Pro - The Essential Guide for New Managers while you’re there!Connect with me on LinkedIn.Please subscribe and comment!

On this episode of Management Development Unlocked, Eric sits down with guest Deb Harrison. Deb is a kindness advocate as well as a catalyst for growth and change. She is a consultant, coach, speaker, and author. Deb’s goal is to help others optimize every opportunity and every person they interact with. She helps people find the gifts they have within themselves and recognize the gifts other people possess, which can make great things happen.In this episode, you’ll hear:The importance of making kindness a priority in your day-to-day life.Deb Harrison’s perspective on being a growth and change catalyst and getting people to embrace them in various circumstances.Curiosity’s role in helping us be the best version of ourselves.The two biggest misconceptions new managers have about leadership.How adjusting your approach to individual team members can make work run more smoothly.Deb’s approach to coaching new managers and helping them feel more comfortable in their roles.Setting expectations with your team and modeling them to hold yourself and your team accountable.Mindfulness and its impact on the work environment.A personal story from Deb Harrison on driving change in a difficult situation.Her coaching and consulting business and her upcoming book of poetry.Connect with Deb Harrison:WebsiteFacebookInstagramLinkedIn---Head over to girardtrainingsolutions.com to take a look at the 20+ courses I offer for new and experienced managers! Get your copy of the Amazon #1 Bestseller and #1 New Release Lead Like a Pro - The Essential Guide for New Managers while you’re there!Connect with me on LinkedIn.Please subscribe and comment!

Eric welcomes guest Kamaria Scott to the show on today's Management Development Unlocked. Kamaria is the owner of Enetic, which is a boutique consulting firm that helps organizations leverage their people leaders as partners during times of change. Her goal is to ensure that leaders can lead engaged, healthy, and high-performing teams and can do that when their organizations are going through dynamic changes. Kamaria is also the host of the Manager to Manager podcast. Her varied career background allows her to draw from her experiences in various industries to help managers succeed.In this episode, you’ll hear:The one skill Kamaria Scott believes new managers need to master for success.Curiosity’s influence on how a manager leads a team and flexing yourself to adapt to the specific needs of a team member.Influencing engagement and performance on a team and how to get your team to lean in and give a little bit more.Why curiosity shows up in everything you do and can allow you to gauge multiple components of a project.Some practical ways managers can learn about their team members aside from just asking questions.Why Kamaria started her podcast and what she wants people to take away from it.Connect with Kamaria Scott:[email protected] to Manager podcastHumble Inquiry by Edgar H. Schein---Head over to girardtrainingsolutions.com to take a look at the 20+ courses I offer for new and experienced managers! Get your copy of the Amazon #1 Bestseller and #1 New Release Lead Like a Pro - The Essential Guide for New Managers while you’re there!Connect with me on LinkedIn.Please subscribe and comment!

On today’s episode of Management Development Unlocked, Eric interviews Nick Smith. Nick specializes in helping leaders and teams deal well with people to remove stress and increase profitability. He is certified in using The GameChanger Index, DISC-based personality instruments, and Neuro-Linguistic Programming techniques. Nick’s varied background enables him to understand how to coach leaders. He prefers to spend much of his time outdoors and coaches outdoors as well.In this episode, you’ll hear:Why Nick Smith sees leading outdoors as similar to leading in business and the importance of feeling like you are in a safe space before producing work.Motivating people who want to be involved and the three things that encourage people.How to handle people on your team who don’t want to be involved and find the why behind it.The power of giving agency to a team.The twin roles of leader and manager and how they play out in an outdoor context.The amount of emphasis you need to place on leading yourself and why looking after yourself first allows you to be in a good place to care for your team.The GameChanger Index, what it does, and how it can benefit your workplace.Connect with Nick Smith:LinkedInSquare Pegs CoachingThe GC Index---Head over to girardtrainingsolutions.com to take a look at the 20+ courses I offer for new and experienced managers! Get your copy of the Amazon #1 Bestseller and #1 New Release Lead Like a Pro - The Essential Guide for New Managers while you’re there!Connect with me on LinkedIn.Please subscribe and comment!

Eric welcomes guest Minette Norman on today’s episode of Management Development Unlocked. Minette is based in the San Francisco Bay Area, and after 30 years in the software industry in Silicon Valley, she became a speaker, author, and leadership consultant. Today, her focus area is inclusive leadership.In this episode, you’ll hear:Minette Norman’s path from studying at the Sorbonne and a degree in drama and French to the tech industry in Silicon Valley.How she defines a great high-performing team and diversity’s vital part in that definition.A manager’s role in fostering a team culture where everyone can do their best work and set an expectation of curiosity.The most challenging aspects of managing people and the importance of asking yourself how you’re showing up for your team.Why managers should love people and become good listeners for their teams.The reason we should focus on inclusive leadership in today’s workplace.Minette’s book, The Boldly Inclusive Leader, and its focus on helping all leaders do better in creating inclusive cultures.Her answers for Eric’s lightning round.Connect with Minette Norman:LinkedInWebsite---Head over to girardtrainingsolutions.com to take a look at the 20+ courses I offer for new and experienced managers! Get your copy of the Amazon #1 Bestseller and #1 New Release Lead Like a Pro - The Essential Guide for New Managers while you’re there!Connect with me on LinkedIn.Please subscribe and comment!

On today’s episode of Management Development Unlocked, Eric interviews Christy Freddo. Christy has a background as a trainer in Corporate America and also developed training curriculums. A few years later, she became a marketing manager and director of international marketing, which involved a lot of travel. Ultimately, Christy left her career in international marketing to become an entrepreneur. She purchased a spa about ten years ago and has been a business owner since then.In this episode, you’ll hear:Christy’s varied business background and why it gave her deep experience in management.How new managers can create a positive mindset for themselves whether they’re in Corporate America or a spa.The role of wellness programs and taking time off in promoting a positive mindset.The definition of manifesting, what it means, and how it can benefit managers.How positive affirmations can help new managers without getting too “woo-woo” with them.A manager’s role in leading change for their team and how to keep it positive for the team.The catalyst that led Christy to develop her coaching business, roadmap, and e-book.Eric’s lightning round questions for Christy.Connect with Christy Freddo:InstagramFor your free “Create Your Best Life” e-book, go to keap.app/contact-us/6430519435464693To download your free “Reinvention Roadmap” guided workbook, go to: Bestlifemindset.comContact Christy directly at [email protected] over to girardtrainingsolutions.com to take a look at the 20+ courses I offer for new and experienced managers! Get your copy of the Amazon #1 Bestseller and #1 New Release Lead Like a Pro - The Essential Guide for New Managers while you’re there!Connect with me on LinkedIn.Please subscribe and comment!

On today’s episode of Management Development Unlocked, Eric welcomes Roberta Ndlela to the show. Roberta is a member of the Zulu tribe in South Africa and grew up under the apartheid system. Apartheid ended when she was 18, and at 19, she began her corporate career in the transportation industry, where she honed her communication skills. Later, as she taught English in South Korea, Roberta recognized the value of adaptability.  She credits her communication and adaptability skills for her success today.In this episode, you’ll hear:How Roberta Ndlela defines “soft skills” as human skills.Why you need soft skills in addition to technical knowledge.The top eight behaviors that successful managers or leaders possess.The data behind soft skills, why CEOs spend 20% more time learning soft skills than the average person, and the increased productivity rates of their teams.Quiet quitting and workers’ reluctance to do more than the minimum at work.Roberta Ndlela’s free 30-minute call to assist listeners with speaking or leading people.Connect with Roberta Ndlela:LinkedInInstagram---Head over to girardtrainingsolutions.com to get a free copy of my eBook, "Advice for a New Manager."Connect with me on LinkedIn.Please subscribe and comment!

On today’s Management Development Unlocked, Eric welcomes Mark Panciera to the show. Mark is CEO of The Pacific Institute, where he is committed to providing people tools to think about what they think about and help them think in a way that illuminates their potential to drive greater personal and professional performance than ever before. Throughout his career, Mark has specialized in accelerating growth in companies, teams, and individuals while wearing many hats--from business owner and community leader to executive and entrepreneur.In this episode, you’ll hear:How Mark Panciera defines mindset and how you can transform it into a skillset.Awareness, acceptance, and action and then celebrating the achievement.Some practical steps you can take to begin overcoming unhelpful beliefs about yourself and recast how you view yourself.Why repetition is the mother of learning and the role of stamina in creating new habits.The crucial mindset new leaders and managers need to have.How managers can take small steps to help your team create a productive mindset by modeling, mentoring, and monitoring.Mark’s answers to Eric’s lightning round.Connect with Mark Panciera:LinkedInMark’s websiteThe Pacific InstituteInvent Your FutureBreathing Life Into People: The View from an Undertaker’s Chair---Head over to girardtrainingsolutions.com to get a free copy of my eBook, "Advice for a New Manager."Connect with me on LinkedIn.Please subscribe and comment!

Today, on Management Development Unlocked, Eric welcomes Stephen Morris to the show. Stephen is a retired Army veteran turned entrepreneur. After leaving the Army, Stephen joined the corporate world and hated every second of it. Upon reflection, he determined that he hated it because he wasn’t pleased with the lack of leadership development in the corporations he worked with. Rather than complain about it, he decided to try to find a solution.Stephen Morris is the CEO of Renowned Leadership and has more than 21 years of experience in leadership roles. He is passionate about sharing everything he’s learned as a Leadership Development and Career Coach.In this episode, you’ll hear:Some of the most important lessons Stephen’s learned about leadership.Why the worst decisions you’ll ever make are the ones you make quickly and the value in taking a tactical pause.What Stephen wants new managers to know as they move into leadership.Why getting to know your team on a personal level and working alongside them can increase your team’s trust and performance.The secret to becoming a good leader when you’re new to management.The three books Stephen Morris recommends for new managers.What his new product is and where you can find it.Connect with Stephen Morris:LinkedInRenowned Leadership---Head over to girardtrainingsolutions.com to get a free copy of my eBook, "Advice for a New Manager."Connect with me on LinkedIn.Please subscribe and comment!

Today’s episode of Management Development Unlocked marks the 50th episode! Eric’s guest is Tom Applegarth. Tom’s entire career has been spent in human resources at multiple companies, both big and small. Today, he is the Vice President of Human Resources for Preferred CFO, which works with about 150 companies to offer outsourced finance, accounting, HR, and payroll for smaller companies.In this episode, you’ll hear:The compensation issues new managers should consider when hiring or contemplating merit increases for their employees.The most common financial mistakes new managers make.Terminating employees, the issues that can arise in those situations, and one of Tom’s best examples of it.The limitations of offering references for a candidate and Tom Applegarth’s advice for who you should really be speaking to about someone.Why the best managers are always recruiting.What Tom’s company does and makes it unique.Eric’s lightning round questions for Tom.Connect with Tom Applegarth:LinkedInPreferred [email protected] over to girardtrainingsolutions.com to get a free copy of my eBook, "Advice for a New Manager."Connect with me on LinkedIn.Please subscribe and comment!

Eric welcomes Lisa Alvarez on today’s Management Development Unlocked. Lisa is a leadership development manager, guide, facilitator, and teacher. She helps leaders develop their skills, EQ, and feedback conflict management. She helps leaders engage feelings and emotions and bring them back into the work environment.Lisa is the founder of The EMOTIVE lab and helps businesses achieve results by creating an environment where their employees can thrive and perform at their highest potential.In this episode, you’ll hear:How Lisa Alvarez says leaders can improve their EQ and empathy’s role in influencing others.Defining self-awareness, learning to be with how you’re feeling, and why it’s the first step toward empathizing with others.What managers can do to become more self-aware.The importance of centering yourself to relax and focus to handle a situation in a responsive rather than reactive manner.The biggest challenges new managers face when it comes to empathy.Why exposure to people who are different from you can help you develop empathy.Lisa’s EQ workshops for leaders and what you can learn from The EMOTIVE Lab.Her final thoughts on developing empathy.Connect with Lisa Alvarez:LinkedInThe EMOTIVE Lab---Head over to girardtrainingsolutions.com to get a free copy of my eBook, "Advice for a New Manager."Connect with me on LinkedIn.Please subscribe and comment!

On today’s episode of Management Development Unlocked, Eric is speaking with Eric Stone, a business consultant who helps organizations build a unique, high-performing culture. He is also a speaker and a coach who helps newly promoted managers get their bearings. Eric’s new book is Jumpstart Your Workplace Culture: A Road Map for Igniting High Performance.In this episode, you’ll hear:The five key factors of employee engagement, according to Eric Stone, including trust, clear communication, tools, encouragement, and rewards.What new managers can do to hone their time management skills and implement scheduling with precision.The four Ds of emails: delete, defer, do, and delegate.Eric’s tips for effectively communicating with your team.How you can create a high-performance culture in your organization using Eric Stone’s framework.The biggest myth about workplace culture.His new book and what makes it stand out.Connect with Eric Stone:LinkedInWebsiteClear Path VenturesInstagramYouTubeFacebook---Head over to girardtrainingsolutions.com to get a free copy of my eBook, "Advice for a New Manager."Connect with me on LinkedIn.Please subscribe and comment!

On today’s Management Development Unlocked, Eric interviews Paul Teasdale. Paul is a father of two, a husband, and a friend to many, but ultimately, he loves to connect people. In his day-to-day job, he helps people accelerate their performance, primarily using lessons from the high-performance world of Formula One, where Paul had the privilege of working for seven years.In this episode, you’ll hear:Paul’s background in manufacturing and consulting, how that eventually led to a position at a dairy company’s headquarters in New Zealand, his transition into banking, and how he ultimately landed in the Formula One racing industry.What it was like to work at the McLaren Technology Centre, why it’s built to inspire, and how Paul kept high performers engaged.The key leadership lessons he learned from working at McLaren and how to identify the leaders on your team.The pitfalls to be aware of and avoid as a new manager, along with the role of influence in a leadership role.Paul’s online course that teaches you to determine what you want to achieve, the actions that impact results, who the team is, what insights your team needs to make the best decisions, and the data you need to drive those insights.RAPID Performance = Results, Actions, People Insights + DataPaul’s responses to Eric’s lightning round and his surprising answer to the person he’d most like to interview.Connect with Paul Teasdale:[email protected] over to girardtrainingsolutions.com to get a free copy of my eBook, "Advice for a New Manager."Connect with me on LinkedIn.Please subscribe and comment!

Today’s episode of Management Development Unlocked features Colby Morris. Colby has spent the last several years developing leaders and leadership teams. He is also a consultant, a dad, and a husband--not necessarily in that order.Colby Morris is an experienced Chief Operating Officer with a proven track record of driving revenue growth and operational excellence. He is a strong leader passionate about developing highly engaged, high-performing teams. A strategic thinker, he has a proven ability to execute complex plans. Colby is the founder and president of NXT Step Advisors, a consulting firm based in Austin, Texas.In this episode, you’ll hear:Why developing yourself is one of the most important first steps of leadership development for a new manager, and recognizing that leadership is about the people.The aspects of leadership development that new managers should avoid.Colby’s take on the fallacy that a new manager can’t develop leadership skills.Where new managers can discover resources to develop their leadership skills and why it’s well worth making the budget and time investment.Colby’s consulting business with his wife, their roles as a fractional CFO and fractional COO, and his podcast.Eric’s lightning round questions for Colby.Connect with Colby Morris:LinkedInNXT Step AdvisorsThings Leaders Do podcast---Did you know that one in four managers were promoted to leadership positions with no formal training? Unsurprisingly, this trend negatively impacts employee performance. Research proves that “accidental managers” make team members feel less satisfied, valued, and motivated in their jobs.If you don’t know how to support your new managers in their transition to their new position, my upcoming FREE Masterclass: Lead Like a Pro, is for you! In this special session, I will give you an executive overview of a new course I have developed to help new managers thrive in their new leadership roles.Save the date: November 8, 2023, at 10 am PT.Register hereHead over to girardtrainingsolutions.com to get a free copy of my eBook, "Advice for a New Manager."Connect with me on LinkedIn.Please subscribe and comment!

This episode of Management Development Unlocked features Vidal Graupera. Vidal is an entrepreneur who is currently building an AI coaching platform. Initially, his AI platform is focused on job interviewing. He also runs a website and a podcast called ManagersClub and served as an engineering manager in the past. Vidal is also an author.In this episode, you’ll hear:What makes one-on-ones a manager’s superpower, and why they can help build trust and connection as well as offer valuable feedback to team members.The purpose of a one-on-one and the opportunities they provide your team members.The three-step structure of a great one-on-one and how to ensure you’re getting the information you need while the team member is receiving value from the meeting.Vidal’s suggestions for questions you can ask to make sure your one-on-ones aren’t rote or boring and where you can find his entire list of questions.What the outcome should be after a good one-on-one session.Why you should be taking notes in your one-on-ones as a manager and Vidal’s advice for creating a successful one-on-one meeting.Eric’s lightning round for Vidal.Connect with Vidal Graupera:LinkedInManagersClubInterview IgniterWebsite---Did you know that one in four managers were promoted to leadership positions with no formal training? Unsurprisingly, this trend negatively impacts employee performance. Research proves that “accidental managers” make team members feel less satisfied, valued, and motivated in their jobs.If you don’t know how to support your new managers in their transition to their new position, my upcoming FREE Masterclass: Lead Like a Pro, is for you! In this special session, I will give you an executive overview of a new course I have developed to help new managers thrive in their new leadership roles.Save the date: November 8, 2023, at 10 am PT.Register hereHead over to girardtrainingsolutions.com to get a free copy of my eBook, "Advice for a New Manager."Connect with me on LinkedIn.Please subscribe and comment!

On this episode of Management Development Unlocked, Eric interviews Wayne Mullins. Wayne is a husband, father, entrepreneur, leader, and manager who always tries to learn and grow. He is the founder of Ugly Mug Marketing, where most of his management and leadership takes place today. He is passionate about helping others develop and become better versions of themselves.In this episode, you’ll hear:How Wayne manages self-accountable, high-performing teams and what being self-accountable means.Self-accountability’s role in leadership and management, why leaders have to create a clear vision for where they want to go for their teams, and the three components of a clear vision.The most important person you need to manage (hint: yourself!), how to do that gracefully, and what the concept of “when furious, get curious” means.Wayne Mullins’ recommendations for dealing with team members who don’t fit the company culture and why cultures are self-selecting.How you can fix a company culture that isn’t in line with company offerings and an example of that concept in play.The value in having mentors, coaches, therapists, etc., in your corner as a leader.The story behind  Ugly Mug Marketing’s name.Connect with Wayne Mullins:LinkedInUgly Mug Marketing---Did you know that one in four managers were promoted to leadership positions with no formal training? Unsurprisingly, this trend negatively impacts employee performance. Research proves that “accidental managers” make team members feel less satisfied, valued, and motivated in their jobs.If you don’t know how to support your new managers in their transition to their new position, my upcoming FREE Masterclass: Lead Like a Pro, is for you! In this special session, I will give you an executive overview of a new course I have developed to help new managers thrive in their new leadership roles.Save the date: November 8, 2023, at 10 am PT.Register hereHead over to girardtrainingsolutions.com to get a free copy of my eBook, "Advice for a New Manager."Connect with me on LinkedIn.Please subscribe and comment!

Eric’s guest on Management Development Unlocked this week is Felicia Shakiba. Felicia is the founder, podcast host, and global leadership and HR consultant for CPO Playbook Consultancy. She previously held the role of Global Head of Performance Management at WPP. Felicia has more than 20 years of HR leadership experience.In this episode, you’ll hear:The definition of performance management and its four pillars: goal creation, measurement, conversation, and rewards and recognition.Why high performers should be rewarded accordingly.The primary goal of performance management and how it can help align employees' efforts with the organization's goals.The importance of having ongoing conversations about performance expectations so that employees aren’t blindsided in a performance review.How managers can actively participate in effective performance management, and the three questions you can ask team members to structure these dialogues.Some of Felicia’s suggestions for building rapport and trust during a one-on-one.The questions you need to ask to get your team member to take ownership of an issue with your support.The steps managers can take to measure their own performance within the performance management framework.Connect with Felicia Shakiba:LinkedInCPO PlaybookPodcast---Head over to girardtrainingsolutions.com to get a free copy of my eBook, "Advice for a New Manager."Connect with me on LinkedIn.Please subscribe and comment!

Today, on Management Development Unlocked, Eric welcomes Brian Nelson-Palmer as a special co-host. Brian is the mastermind behind Productivity Gladiator, where he helps project managers and soon-to-be project managers with specific tools and tactics they can use to handle overwhelm and burnout.In this episode, you’ll hear ten time management hacks for up-and-coming managers, with Eric and Brian sharing their best tips and their thoughts on figuring out what will work best for you.In this episode, you’ll hear:Why everything needs to go on your calendar.Estimate the time a task will take on your calendar.The best system is the one you’ll actually use and what that could look like.How Eric implements his multiple-calendar system.Eric’s “do it, delegate it, or delete it” philosophy.Why Brian says up-and-coming managers need to stop running errands.Use Subscribe and Save for subscriptions to automate part of your life.How you can implement AI to increase your productivity at home and work.Why Brian insists that you need to stop emailing back and forth to schedule meetings.Try dictation instead of typing.Some final thoughts from Eric and Brian.Connect with Brian Nelson-Palmer:LinkedInProductivity Gladiator---Head over to girardtrainingsolutions.com to get a free copy of my eBook, "Advice for a New Manager."Connect with me on LinkedIn.Please subscribe and comment!

On today’s episode of Management Development Unlocked, Eric welcomes guest Vasily Malyshev to the show. Vasily is the CEO and Founder of Intelogos, an employee well-being recognition and performance management software. He’s been in the software entrepreneurship startup industry for the last 15 years and started three companies during that time.Through his experience with these companies, Vasily partnered with New York University’s Stern School of Business, where he taught at a partnership that created a contest for the best idea. He taught students everything from how to design software to development to marketing. He was also invited to speak at the United Nations about his immigrant entrepreneurship experience.In this episode, you’ll hear:Vasily Malyshev’s experience at the United Nations and how it all began with an appearance on a podcast.Some of the biggest problems managers face with remote teams and how they can be addressed.The three ways Vasily keeps remote teams productive and engaged.Why finding a way to be together virtually creates collaboration and relationships and makes it easier to handle conflict when it arises.What Intelogos’ mission is, and how the app implements feedback.Connect with Vasily Malyshev:LinkedInIntelogosWebsite“When Something Goes Wrong--Always Blame Yourself” podcast episode---Head over to girardtrainingsolutions.com to get a free copy of my eBook, "Advice for a New Manager."Connect with me on LinkedIn.Please subscribe and comment!

On today’s episode of Management Development Unlocked, Eric welcomes special guest Brent Kostiw. Brent was Eric’s first manager in Silicon Valley as well as his first remote manager. He is a prominent figure in Eric’s upcoming book and has been a friend and mentor for over 20 years.Brent Kostiw has been in HR since 1983, spending 23 years specifically in HR doing everything you can imagine. His primary emphasis has been on training and organizational development, which is what his consulting practice, Corridor Business Consulting, focuses on. Those skills also spilled over into the UPS Store franchises he and his wife run in Central California.In this episode, you’ll hear:The value of sincerity and care in management and who Brent’s role model for management was.Why getting people involved and inviting them to participate in the solution encourages employee buy-in.How building a culture of care and flexibility builds trust with your team and reduces turnover.What new managers can do to establish a relationship with their teams right away, including:Clear vision, clear direction, and clear missionGet objectives set, and do itAdjust as neededCommunicate and be presentListen to the players who are already thereBrent’s tips for managing people who have different needs, including:Adjust to the person and how they areUnderstand that people respond similarlyDon’t make it too complicatedOffer positive feedbackBe empathetic to your team’s emotions, both personally and professionallyOffer genuine gratitudeThe difference positive reinforcement can make in management, along with a genuine “thank you.”Connect with Brent Kostiw:LinkedInWebsite---Head over to girardtrainingsolutions.com to get a free copy of my eBook, "Advice for a New Manager."Connect with me on LinkedIn.Please subscribe and comment!

Today on Management Development Unlocked, Eric speaks with Brenden Kumarasamy. Brenden shares how he changed his career path from accounting when he discovered his talent for coaching others how to speak. In college, Brenden presented competitively, which taught him how to speak, but then he began coaching other students how to speak, which helped them win competitions. In January 2019, Brenden started to create YouTube videos on public speaking on his channel, MasterTalk, which is also the name of his company.In this episode, you’ll hear:The most important part of communication a new manager should master.How new managers can run effective meetings that stay on track and get things done.The action steps you can take to project confidence when presenting in a meeting or a larger venue.What new managers can do to present themselves well and overcome intimidation in front of senior executives.Eric’s lightning round questions for Brenden.Connect with Brenden Kumarasamy:Take Brenden's free workshopLinkedInWebsiteYouTube---Learn more about my new book!Head over to girardtrainingsolutions.com to get a free copy of my eBook, "Advice for a New Manager."Connect with me on LinkedIn.Please subscribe and comment!

Today, on Management Development Unlocked, Eric interviews Christopher Lind. Christopher is a husband and father of seven children as well as the Chief Learning Officer for a large healthcare company in Miami. He also participates in a lot of industry work to help shape and influence the intersection of business technology and the human experience.In this episode, you’ll hear:How new managers can use technology to become better managers, why it should free up more time to spend with your teams, and how AI can help.What prompt engineering is, and how you can think of AI as a brilliant intern to adjust its usage to your needs.Why your job isn’t at risk to AI but rather to someone doing your job with AI, and how understanding this new technology can help you remain relevant at work.How you can successfully manage a team remotely and the reason it requires more intentionality.AI’s capability to make us more human and more effective if used correctly.Building effective relationships digitally and how you can leverage technology to strengthen relationships.Some of Christopher’s must-have tools and tech for managers including Fellow, Marco Polo, and ChatGPT.Christopher’s responses to Eric’s lightning round.Connect with Christopher Lind:LinkedInWebsiteYouTube---Learn more about my new book!Head over to girardtrainingsolutions.com to get a free copy of my eBook, "Advice for a New Manager."Connect with me on LinkedIn.Please subscribe and comment!

Today’s episode of Management Development Unlocked features Janet Livingstone. Janet is an executive coach, team performance coach, trainer, and consultant. She is a global multi-potential, multilingual leadership development practitioner who coaches folks worldwide. She has lived and worked in several different countries on several continents and has empathy and experience that lends itself well to people from other cultures and people transitioning from one culture to another. She is based in Seattle and sometimes in Bratislava, Slovakia.In this episode, you’ll hear:Why life doesn’t stop at a promotion and there is still so much to learn even at the management level.The impact of bad coaching and the benefits of grooming someone for management beforehand so they understand what to expect.The difference between listening well and fully focusing on someone and paying attention to their cues and just being quiet,Cultural variances, how they impact team interactions, and why they can efficiently push you out of your comfort zone.How an attempt to speak the local language is received with gratitude and interest and the value in educating yourself about other cultures.Janet’s intercultural focus in her coaching business and her Team Elements coaching methodology based on iterative dialogue.Connect with Janet Livingstone:[email protected] more about my new book!Head over to girardtrainingsolutions.com to get a free copy of my eBook, "Advice for a New Manager."Connect with me on LinkedIn.Please subscribe and comment!

In today’s episode of Management Development Unlocked, Eric is speaking with Gary Ross. Gary is a workplace communication, trainer, coach, and consultant who helps people communicate better at work. He is a former FORTUNE 500 corporate executive, Emmy-nominated broadcast journalist, and current stadium and arena public address announcer who knows you don’t always need a booming sound system to get your message across. He provides actionable tips and advice that people can use to inform, persuade and influence others.In this episode, you’ll hear:Why first-time managers have difficulty communicating effectively and how they can improve their communication skills.The fragility of trust and the reason it takes time to build it.Gary’s three number-one rules of communication and how to evaluate your communication goals.The four questions you should be asking yourself about what you’re trying to communicate.What new managers can do to build confidence in their ability to communicate with their new teams.How practice and preparation can make all the difference in your communication.Gary’s tips for new managers who need to build their confidence in their ability to communicate to leadership and manage up to them.Connect with Gary Ross:LinkedInINSIDE COMMSINSIDE COMMS [email protected] more about my new book!Head over to girardtrainingsolutions.com to get a free copy of my eBook, "Advice for a New Manager."Connect with me on LinkedIn.Please subscribe and comment!

Today, on Management Development Unlocked, Eric welcomes guest Russell Sweep. Russell is a content development manager for Goodwill Industries International. He oversees a team that works on developing new learning strategies, adopting content, populating LMSs, and more. Russell is new to learning and development as well as management. Eric was recently a guest on Russell's podcast, The L&D Hot Seat.In this episode, you’ll hear:Russell’s experience transitioning into L&D and why it’s been a positive experience for him so far.The two books he recommends and the advice he’d give to someone new to L&D or any other field.What it’s like to manage a team when you don’t have deep domain expertise and why listening can be a game-changer in a new role.How Russell builds relationships with his team and why listening collaboratively is crucial when leading a team.The importance of connection with your team members and how it can influence communication with them.What Russell would tell a new manager managing a team where they’re not an expert in the team’s field.Eric’s lightning round for Russell.Connect with Russell Sweep:WebsiteLinkedInInstagramGLDC---Learn how to hire the right person for the position the first time! Join my FREE masterclass to learn how.Head over to girardtrainingsolutions.com to get a free copy of my eBook, "Advice for a New Manager."Connect with me on LinkedIn.Please subscribe and comment!

Today’s episode of Management Development Unlocked features Jennifer Martineau. Jennifer is an industrial organizational psychologist with an interest in training, leadership development, and what makes it effective. After graduate school, she joined an organization called the Center for Creative Leadership as a junior researcher. She spent most of her career there on staff, creating evaluation processes and helping clients evaluate the programs her company ran for them, which led to designing and delivering effective leadership development.Jennifer ultimately became a member of the Center for Creative Leadershp’s executive leadership team. In 2020, she left the organization she loved and created her own organization called Leap and Inspire Global. She is a coach and consultant for leadership development, focusing on the content areas she most enjoys.In this episode, you’ll hear:The meaning of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI), its importance in the workplace, and how it can improve an organization.Who is affected when organizations don’t pay attention to EDI and how diversity of experience can create innovation.What to be aware of as you transition from an individual contributor to a manager.How managers can create an equitable, inclusive environment that supports and sustains diversity.Jennifer’s tips for signs that an organization is doing a good job with EDI and what to look for.Her answers for Eric’s lightning round.Connect with Jennifer Martineau:WebsiteLinkedInKick Some Glass [email protected] how to hire the right person for the position the first time! Join my FREE masterclass to learn how.Head over to girardtrainingsolutions.com to get a free copy of my eBook, "Advice for a New Manager."Connect with me on LinkedIn.Please subscribe and comment!

On today’s episode of Management Development Unlocked, Eric welcomes Dr. Mark Williams to the show. Mark is a cognitive neuroscientist who studies the brain, how we connect with each other, how we become more productive, and how we learn. For the past five years, he’s been working with organizations to create brain-healthy organizations where people learn and are more productive. He is based in Sydney, Australia.In this episode, you’ll hear:Why we need to connect with people before we can manage them.How engagement differs from connection and two ways can create a connection with others.The reason people are more likely to listen and respond positively to people they’re connected with and the impact of confirmation bias.Some ways you can increase productivity by connecting to people in real life as opposed to using apps and technology.Dr. Mark Williams’ answers to Eric’s lightning round questions.Connect with Mark Williams:WebsiteLinkedIn---Learn how to hire the right person for the position the first time! Join my FREE masterclass to learn how.Head over to girardtrainingsolutions.com to get a free copy of my eBook, "Advice for a New Manager."Connect with me on LinkedIn.Please subscribe and comment!

On today’s episode of Management Development Unlocked, Eric interviews Al Dea, a leadership development facilitator and consultant. Al helps smart people become people smart and build the human skills you need to lead or manage effectively in today’s world of work. Al is the founder of Edge of Work.In this episode, you’ll hear:Why career development matters in today’s world of work and the opportunities we now have to define a career.The critical role managers play in the career development of their employees and the reason they should care about their employees’ development and growth.The responsibilities managers have with respect to the career development of their employees.Why managers should help their employees develop their careers and make it a priority in how they manage their teams.Eric’s lightning round questions for Al Dea.Connect with Al Dea:WebsiteLinkedInThe Edge of Work Podcast---Learn how to hire the right person for the position the first time! Join my FREE masterclass to learn how.Head over to girardtrainingsolutions.com to get a free copy of my eBook, "Advice for a New Manager."Connect with me on LinkedIn.Please subscribe and comment!

Today, on Management Development Unlocked, Eric interviews Wayne Brown. Wayne is an executive coach heavily involved in learning and development. He spends most of his time in the Coaching 4 Companies division of his organization, Skills 4 Executives.In this episode, you’ll hear:How you can prepare yourself for listening before sitting down to coach an employee.Using mindfulness techniques daily to calm yourself and why it requires practice.The four levels of deep listening, how our learning styles impact the language we use, and Wayne’s tips for listening more effectively.The why, what, and how of asking powerful questions and his favorite coaching models.Eric’s lightning round for Wayne.Connect with Wayne Brown:LinkedInWebsite---Learn how to hire the right person for the position the first time! Join my FREE masterclass to learn how.Head over to girardtrainingsolutions.com to get a free copy of my eBook, "Advice for a New Manager."Connect with me on LinkedIn.Please subscribe and comment!

In this episode of Management Development Unlocked, Eric welcomes guest Jane Lovas. Jane is an executive leadership coach and author. She’s working on a new book that will be published this October called Leading with Love which explores love as a power instead of our 15-year-old emotions. She helps people create their visions and see the big picture, which allows them to create more when they know what they’re focused on.In this episode, you’ll hear:Jane’s upcoming book and how the concept of love impacts leadership in organizations.The difference between developing people and managing what they’re doing and how it can impact the human side.How leaders can fix poor meetings, communicate with their teams more effectively, and get more buy-in.What managers should do when a team won’t do what the manager tells them to do.Jane’s answers to Eric’s lightning round. Connect with Jane Lovas:LinkedInWebsitePut Your Big Girl Panties On and Kick Fear in the Ass---Learn how to hire the right person for the position the first time! Join my FREE masterclass to learn how.Head over to girardtrainingsolutions.com to get a free copy of my eBook, "Advice for a New Manager."Connect with me on LinkedIn.Please subscribe and comment!

In this episode of Management Development Unlocked, Eric speaks with Tammy Alvarez, founder of Career Winners Circle, which aims to empower business leaders to make a big impact and love every Monday morning again. Career Winners Circle has a team of coaches who work with brand-new leaders up to the C-suite and beyond to ensure that people get the most out of their careers and ultimately become the leaders they choose to follow.In this episode, you’ll hear:Tammy’s background as an executive on Wall Street and her new life as a digital nomad for the past five years.Her focus on transitioning from individual contributor to a manager or leader and the most important thing you can do when you’re leading your peers.Why acknowledging out loud that leading your peers is awkward can set the tone going forward.The reason you need to get real with your expectations and the typical mistakes people make during this transition.The importance of building a network around you that will speak plainly with you and some of Tammy’s experiences as a new manager.Her program, The Leadership Accelerator, and what it does for new managers.Connect with Tammy Alvarez:LinkedInCareer Winners Circle on LinkedInWebsite---Head over to girardtrainingsolutions.com to get a free copy of my eBook, "Advice for a New Manager."Connect with me on LinkedIn.Please subscribe and comment!

In this episode of Management Development Unlocked, Eric welcomes guest Theresa Francomacaro to the show. Theresa is the Chief Storyteller for Why Story Works, where she helps people put together their stories. She is a storyteller, leadership coach, professional development trainer, and author on a mission to help people tell the right story at the right time to the right audience to get the right results.In this episode, you’ll hear:Theresa’s point of view is why new managers should use storytelling as they lead their teams.The elements of a good story and how managers can become better storytellers.The three keys to telling a great story.Her secret sauce for keeping an audience from fleeing and how a great story can help your team achieve better results.The congruence between your body language and facial expressions and their impact on your stories.The role of storytelling in reducing the stressful narrative surrounding AI taking over their jobs or their team’s jobs and how you can leverage AI tools.What brings Theresa the most joy in her life.Connect with Theresa Francomacaro:LinkedInWebsiteThe Anatomy of a BookYouTube [email protected] over to girardtrainingsolutions.com to get a free copy of my eBook, "Advice for a New Manager."Connect with me on LinkedIn.Please subscribe and comment!

Today’s episode of Management Development Unlocked features Don Schmincke. Don is a strategic growth advisor, author, and keynote speaker who trains 700 CEOs annually. Eric interviews Don about his leadership books, Don’s samurai philosophy on leadership, and why management theory fails 70-90% of the time.In this episode, you’ll hear:Don’s philosophy on new managers and why they should know their “altitude.”What winning looks like when you’re in leadership, and why engaging your team in that process is important.The samurai philosophy he uses in leadership training and why ego can sabotage your ability to lead.The reason management theory fails 70-90% of the time and how it can be repaired.How the Viking saga plays into leadership and management, and what’s missing in companies’ cultures and teams.Why Don relates climbing to leadership and the lessons we can take from climbing.The one book he’s written that would help new managers transition into their role.Eric’s lightning round for Don.Connect with Don Schmincke:LinkedInSaga LeadershipDon’s books---Head over to girardtrainingsolutions.com to get a free copy of my eBook, "Advice for a New Manager."Connect with me on LinkedIn.Please subscribe and comment!

Today’s episode of Management Development Unlocked features Brian Washburn, owner of an instructional design and training company called Endurance Learning. He is the CEO and serves as the face of the company, but he has a team of eight working behind the scenes that he credits with amazing work.In this episode, you’ll hear:How Brian became CEO of his own company and what his product, Soapboxify, does.His transition into management following a position working to create a GED curriculum and GED students and what he learned from that experience.Why Brian’s approach to his next leadership role was different and how recognizing the human component made all the difference.His philosophy on management development today and why it takes practice and humility.The SMART goals model and why it’s a great place to start when developing a management structure.The SBI model and how it relates to SMART goals.Brian’s answers to Eric’s lightning round.Connect with Brian Washburn:LinkedInWebsiteSoapboxifyPodcastTwitterEmail Brian---Head over to girardtrainingsolutions.com to get a free copy of my eBook, "Advice for a New Manager."Connect with me on LinkedIn.Please subscribe and comment!

In today’s episode of Management Development Unlocked, Eric speaks with Jimmy Burroughes, a consultant and leadership executive advisor who works with organizations to help them build high-performance cultures. He focuses on the human side of development, which boils down to helping leaders build trust, connection, and clarity of purpose with their teams. Jimmy is also a nomadic globetrotter who’s spent the last 40+ years on a journey of exploration and has visited 69 counties. His home base is in Mexico.In this episode, you’ll hear:Jimmy’s version of a high-performance culture and how that applies to new managers.What leaders often get wrong and why it’s difficult to let go of being a high-performing individual contributor.Two common challenges managers face and how they can address them head-on.The three consequences of getting the concept of high-performance culture wrong.Why Jimmy says new managers have to establish trust with their teams and his seven-point framework for doing that.The role of empathy in management and how it differs from sympathy.His responses to Eric’s lightning round questions.Connect with Jimmy Burroughes:LinkedInWebsiteInstagram“Who’s Got the Monkey?” article---Head over to girardtrainingsolutions.com to get a free copy of my eBook, "Advice for a New Manager."Connect with me on LinkedIn.Please subscribe and comment!

Today, on Management Development Unlocked, Kacie Walters, a solopreneur who coaches managers and leaders, joins Eric for a conversation on implementing tacts to deliver more effective feedback. Kacie is also an author and speaker with more than 20 years of experience working with global organizations.In this episode, you’ll hear:The need for delivering feedback and its importance to growth and development.What makes delivering feedback trepidatious for many people and the steps you can take to deliver it more effectively and constructively.Why sandwiching feedback can send mixed messages to employees and why bad feedback is usually vague feedback.The questions you should ask your team to get better feedback.The three different constituencies of feedback and the reason each should be addressed in a different way.Kacie’s answers to Eric’s lightning round of questions.Connect with Kacie Walters:[email protected] From the MiddleCrucial Conversations“Who’s Got the Monkey” article---Head over to girardtrainingsolutions.com to get a free copy of my eBook, "Advice for a New Manager."Connect with me on LinkedIn.Please subscribe and comment!

In this episode of Management Development Unlocked, Eric speaks with John Chen, CEO of Engaging Virtual Meetings. His company works hard to design and produce, speak at, and emcee the top and most engaging virtual meetings. John is originally from Stockton, California, where he was a skateboarding honor student at Tokay High School. He was a University of California Santa Barbara student and became an amateur skateboarder on his way to going pro when his left ACL went out. John pivoted, became a computer science major, took a position with Microsoft, where he had tremendous success, and became CEO of Geoteaming and founded Engaging Virtual Meetings.In this episode, you’ll hear:John’s journey as an amateur skateboarder to computer science student and now CEO.His best tips for managing teams remotely, what high-performing teams have in common, and the roles psychological safety and accountability play.How to avoid a disastrous virtual meeting and why having a plan can lead to more productive meetings.Some specific ideas for building engagement into your virtual meetings.The difference between managing a team virtually versus managing a team in person and how the theory of bandwidth applies.What brings John the most joy in life.Connect with John Chen:[email protected] Engaging Virtual MeetingsConference---Head over to girardtrainingsolutions.com to get a free copy of my eBook, "Advice for a New Manager."Connect with me on LinkedIn.Please subscribe and comment!

Flipping the Script in Leadership with Bill GentryIn this episode of Management Development Unlocked, Eric speaks with Bill Gentry, an industrial organizational psychologist who has studied and trained leaders for over 20 years. He also wrote the bestselling book, Be the Boss Everyone Wants to Work For: A Guide for New Leaders. After working for the Center for Creative Leadership for many years, he landed at High Point University and has worked as an adjunct faculty member at several colleges and universities in North Carolina. His passion is helping people lead better.In this episode, you’ll hear:What Bill’s book is about, what inspired him to write it, and how it can help you flip your script when it comes to leadership.What a “red thread” is and the six flips you can make to become a better leader.Why the two flips you should focus most on are relationships and a “do it all” attitude.Why you have to let go of the things you aren’t as good at to focus on the things you are good at.The cycle of life choice and how that applies to professional and personal relationships.Who Bill would interview if he could talk to anyone, and why.His favorite vacation spot and what brings him the most joy in life.Connect with Bill Gentry:LinkedInWebsiteBe the Boss Everyone Wants to Work For bookCenter for Creative LeadershipWhat Got You Here Won’t Get You There book---Head over to girardtrainingsolutions.com to get a free copy of my eBook, "Advice for a New Manager."Connect with me on LinkedIn.Please subscribe and comment!

In this episode of Management Development Unlocked, Eric welcomes Lorraine Segal. Lorraine owns a company called Conflict Remedy, which specializes in helping leaders navigate conflict more skillfully. She does that through coaching, training, and folding in clear communication along with feedback and releasing resentments. She is also an author and speaker.In this episode, you’ll hear:What managers should understand about conflict.How she helps leaders manage conflict, and why she loves training to prevent friction at work proactively.How managers can give and receive feedback that’s effective even for highly sensitive people.How to make negative or vague feedback useful without taking it personally.Why miscommunication plays a prominent role in conflict and how to communicate more clearly to avoid conflict.Some of Lorraine Segal’s most interesting management clients and how she helped them manage their conflicts at work.Connect with Lorraine Segal:LinkedInWebsiteBlogLorraine’s bookEmotional Intelligence by Daniel Goleman---Head over to girardtrainingsolutions.com to get a free copy of my eBook, "Advice for a New Manager."Connect with me on LinkedIn.Please subscribe and comment!

On today’s episode of Management Development Unlocked, Eric welcomes Joel Silverstone to the show. Joel is a Senior Professional Skills Facilitator and Coach at The Great Canadian Training & Consulting Company. He joined the company about two years ago because there was a gap in soft skills for a lot of people, so Joel redesigned or created the new soft skills courses, which included everything from time management and delegation to new manager courses, and difficult conversations.Joel has more than 20 years of experience as a facilitator and speaker on communication skills. In his previous life, he was also a professional actor, and he uses that experience to bring some acting techniques into his training.In this episode, you’ll hear:Why giving feedback is important for new managers, why they need to be comfortable with it, and make it a new part of their behavior.How the terminology you use as a manager can create anxiety in your team, what you can do to make the feedback feel safe, and how you can frame it as growth.The communication skills managers can use to provide feedback and why listening to your team is crucial.The impact giving feedback can have on a team.Joel’s answers to Eric’s more personal questions.Connect with Joel Silverstone:LinkedInGreat Canadian [email protected]@greatcanadiantraining.ca---Head over to girardtrainingsolutions.com to get a free copy of my eBook, "Advice for a New Manager."Connect with me on LinkedIn.Please subscribe and comment!

Today, on Management Development Unlocked, Eric is speaking with Mikaela Kiner. Mikaela is based in Seattle, mom to two young adults, and is currently planning a gap year in Costa Rica. She is also the founder and CEO of a people development firm called Reverb. In addition, Mikaela is a coach, which played a large part in founding Reverb.In this episode, you’ll hear:Mikaela’s approach to management development and how she approaches transitioning people from individual contributors to leadership.Why she values management development, what it does for her company, and how she approaches it at Reverb.How approachability and accessibility contribute to management development, why she ensures her materials and approach are inclusive, and the role storytelling plays.Where the management development space needs to go to achieve even more and what “remote fluency” is.Mikaela’s advice to new authors following the publication of her book Female Firebrands.Her answers to Eric’s lightning round questions.Connect with Mikaela Kiner:LinkedInReverbFemale FirebrandsMultipliers bookThe Leadership Pipeline bookThe First 90 Days book---Head over to girardtrainingsolutions.com to get a free copy of my eBook, "Advice for a New Manager."Connect with me on LinkedIn.Please subscribe and comment!

Today’s episode of Management Development Unlocked features Deb Zahn. Deb is a practicing consultant in the healthcare industry in the U.S. who primarily helps organizations at the leadership level make decisions, get unstuck, and move forward together. She also owns a company called the Craft of Consulting where she helps fabulous consultants figure out the business side so they can ultimately create the business and life they love.In this episode, you’ll hear:What Deb Zahn is seeing in organizations and what’s working versus what’s not working.The types of function and dysfunction she witnesses and how it most affects the doers in a company.Why you can’t throw everything at your team and expect them to adapt with context.The need for clarity at the leadership level about what performance means to them.How managers can use empathy to relate to their employees and work together to find solutions to their problems.Deb’s answers to Eric’s speed round questions.Connect with Deb Zahn:LinkedInWebsitePodcast---Head over to girardtrainingsolutions.com to get a free copy of my eBook, "Advice for a New Manager."Connect with me on LinkedIn.Please subscribe and comment!

Today on the Management Development Unlocked podcast, Eric is speaking with guest Mark Carpenter. Mark is the co-author of the book Master Storytelling and teaches a workshop about that topic. The book is designed to help us identify experiences in our lives that we can turn into stories to teach, lead, sell, and inspire. It’s all about taking real-life experiences and turning them into something where you can lead your team, teach important principles, or help inspire the actions that you want from your team in a more personal and impactful way.In this episode, you’ll hear:Why storytelling is a developed skill and why storytelling is important for connecting to people as a manager.How you could use storytelling to create a connection with your new team as a new manager and why new managers don’t tap into storytelling.Why storytelling helps build empathy and helps people remember what you’ve discussed better.How you can develop the ability to tell stories by looking at your everyday life.Eric’s speed round questions for Mark.Connect with Mark Carpenter:LinkedInWebsiteFree eBook - Master StorytellingTeam of Rivals book---Head over to girardtrainingsolutions.com to get a free copy of my eBook, "Advice for a New Manager."Connect with me on LinkedIn.Please subscribe and comment!