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The 90th Percentile: An Unconventional Leadership Podcast

The 90th Percentile: An Unconventional Leadership Podcast

208 episodes — Page 1 of 5

Episode 184: Coaching is Connection First— Why Presence Outperforms Advice

<p>Episode Description In this episode of The 90th Percentile Podcast, BreAnne Okoren and Jack Zenger sit down with leadership expert Michelle Fabian to explore one of the most overlooked—but critical—elements of effective coaching: presence. While many leadership coaching models focus on goal setting, performance gaps, and action plans, this conversation takes a different approach. Michelle … <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-184-coaching-is-connection-first-why-presence-outperforms-advice/">Continued</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-184-coaching-is-connection-first-why-presence-outperforms-advice/">Episode 184: Coaching is Connection First— Why Presence Outperforms Advice</a> first appeared on <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com">ZENGER FOLKMAN</a>.</p>

Mar 25, 202616 min

Episode 183: The Gossip Trap— One Leadership Habit That Quietly Destroys Trust

<p>Episode Description Gossip may seem like a minor workplace habit, but the research tells a very different story. In this episode of The 90th Percentile, BreAnne and Joe Folkman explore new data from Zenger Folkman’s 360-degree leadership assessments revealing how destructive comments about others can quietly undermine a leader’s effectiveness. Based on feedback from hundreds … <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-183-the-gossip-trap-one-leadership-habit-that-quietly-destroys-trust/">Continued</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-183-the-gossip-trap-one-leadership-habit-that-quietly-destroys-trust/">Episode 183: The Gossip Trap— One Leadership Habit That Quietly Destroys Trust</a> first appeared on <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com">ZENGER FOLKMAN</a>.</p>

Mar 11, 202615 min

Episode 182: Does Leadership Development Actually Pay Off? The ROI Leaders Can’t Ignore

<p>Episode Description In a time of tighter budgets and higher scrutiny, leadership development is often one of the first investments leaders feel pressure to justify—or cut. But what if that decision is quietly costing organizations far more than they realize? In this episode, BreAnne Okoren sits down with Orin Salas, Vice President of Sales at … <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-182-does-leadership-development-actually-pay-off-the-roi-leaders-cant-ignore/">Continued</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-182-does-leadership-development-actually-pay-off-the-roi-leaders-cant-ignore/">Episode 182: Does Leadership Development Actually Pay Off? The ROI Leaders Can’t Ignore</a> first appeared on <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com">ZENGER FOLKMAN</a>.</p>

Feb 25, 202612 min

Episode 181: Highlights from The Leadership Skills Report 2026

<p>Details In this episode of The 90th Percentile, BreAnne Okoren and Joe Folkman unpack Zenger Folkman’s new Leadership Skills 2026 Report and explore what truly differentiates leaders in an AI-accelerated world. As AI makes information faster and cheaper, one capability is becoming increasingly scarce: human leadership. Drawing on fresh data from tens of thousands of leaders … <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-181-highlights-from-the-leadership-skills-report-2026/">Continued</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-181-highlights-from-the-leadership-skills-report-2026/">Episode 181: Highlights from The Leadership Skills Report 2026</a> first appeared on <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com">ZENGER FOLKMAN</a>.</p>

Feb 4, 202614 min

Episode 180: The Generational Trust Myth—Why Behavior Beats Age Every Time

<p>Details Trust in leadership is often framed as a generational issue—older leaders are assumed to be more credible because of experience, while younger leaders are expected to “prove themselves” before earning trust. But Zenger Folkman research challenges these assumptions. In this episode of The 90th Percentile: An Unconventional Leadership Podcast, BreAnne Okoren sits down with … <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-180-the-generational-trust-myth-why-behavior-beats-age-every-time/">Continued</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-180-the-generational-trust-myth-why-behavior-beats-age-every-time/">Episode 180: The Generational Trust Myth—Why Behavior Beats Age Every Time</a> first appeared on <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com">ZENGER FOLKMAN</a>.</p>

Jan 21, 202612 min

Episode 179: Strategic Expertise vs. Emotional Intelligence—Which Drives Leadership Success?

<p>Details Emotional intelligence has dominated leadership conversations for years—and for good reason. Leaders who listen, empathize, and build strong relationships create healthier, more engaged teams. But what if EQ isn’t the primary capability driving leadership effectiveness? Drawing on a global dataset of 128,000 leaders and 360-degree feedback from over a million raters, they explore what … <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-179-strategic-expertise-vs-emotional-intelligence-which-drives-leadership-success/">Continued</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-179-strategic-expertise-vs-emotional-intelligence-which-drives-leadership-success/">Episode 179: Strategic Expertise vs. Emotional Intelligence—Which Drives Leadership Success?</a> first appeared on <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com">ZENGER FOLKMAN</a>.</p>

Jan 7, 202610 min

Episode 154: Is Learning and Development Being Demoted?

<p>Details In this episode of The 90th Percentile, we dive into the shifting landscape of Learning and Development (L&D) with Dani Johnson, co-founder and principal analyst at RedThread Research. Dani explores the concerning trend of L&D’s “demotion” within organizations, the rise of federated models, and the opportunities for L&D leaders to adapt and thrive. Together, … <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-154-is-learning-and-development-being-demoted/">Continued</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-154-is-learning-and-development-being-demoted/">Episode 154: Is Learning and Development Being Demoted?</a> first appeared on <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com">ZENGER FOLKMAN</a>.</p>

Dec 29, 202526 min

Episode 157: Team Trust at BJ’s Wholesale Club with Scott Schmadeke

<p>Details Trust is the foundation of any high-performing team, but in today’s fast-paced, uncertain business environment, building and maintaining trust has become more challenging than ever. Research shows that trust isn’t just a “nice-to-have”—it’s a leadership behavior that impacts everything from team collaboration to overall business performance. So, how can organizations create a culture where … <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-157-team-trust-at-bjs-wholesale-club-with-scott-schmadeke/">Continued</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-157-team-trust-at-bjs-wholesale-club-with-scott-schmadeke/">Episode 157: Team Trust at BJ’s Wholesale Club with Scott Schmadeke</a> first appeared on <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com">ZENGER FOLKMAN</a>.</p>

Dec 17, 202527 min

Episode 160: Using Neuroscience to Make Feedback Work with David Rock

<p>Details Research shows that both giving and receiving feedback triggers stress responses similar to physical threats—but understanding these brain mechanisms can help us build better feedback cultures. Our guest today is Dr. David Rock, who coined the term “neuroleadership” and serves as Co-founder and CEO of the NeuroLeadership Institute. This 23-year-old cognitive science consultancy has … <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-160-using-neuroscience-to-make-feedback-work-with-david-rock/">Continued</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-160-using-neuroscience-to-make-feedback-work-with-david-rock/">Episode 160: Using Neuroscience to Make Feedback Work with David Rock</a> first appeared on <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com">ZENGER FOLKMAN</a>.</p>

Dec 16, 202527 min

Episode 25: Elements of the Best 360-Degree Assessments

<p>Details The 360-degree assessment is a central component in most leadership development programs. But not all assessments are in the same class when it comes to the value they offer individual leaders and the benefits they offer the organizations using them. In this episode, we will discuss the eight elements that separate the average from … <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-25-elements-of-the-best-360-degree-assessments-2/">Continued</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-25-elements-of-the-best-360-degree-assessments-2/">Episode 25: Elements of the Best 360-Degree Assessments</a> first appeared on <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com">ZENGER FOLKMAN</a>.</p>

Dec 3, 202515 min

Episode 178: The Hidden Truth About Gender and Leadership Ratings

<p>Details Are workplace evaluations truly objective—or do subtle perceptions still shape how we see male and female leaders differently? In this episode, host Bre Okoren sits down with leadership researcher Joe Folkman to unpack one of the largest real-world analyses ever conducted on gender and leadership effectiveness. Drawing from 12,000+ 360-degree evaluations, Joe reveals a … <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-178-the-hidden-truth-about-gender-and-leadership-ratings/">Continued</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-178-the-hidden-truth-about-gender-and-leadership-ratings/">Episode 178: The Hidden Truth About Gender and Leadership Ratings</a> first appeared on <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com">ZENGER FOLKMAN</a>.</p>

Nov 19, 202513 min

Episode 109: Transforming Leadership Development—Are We Missing The Main Thing?

<p>Details What’s the main thing for leadership development? Is it excelling at selecting the right people? Is it a well-funded corporate learning center with renowned faculty? Is it using the most powerful learning technologies? Worse yet, what if we’ve been missing the main thing? In this episode, we are looking at the development industry and … <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-109-transforming-leadership-development-are-we-missing-the-main-thing/">Continued</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-109-transforming-leadership-development-are-we-missing-the-main-thing/">Episode 109: Transforming Leadership Development—Are We Missing The Main Thing?</a> first appeared on <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com">ZENGER FOLKMAN</a>.</p>

Nov 5, 202519 min

Episode 177: Why Strengths-Based Development Outperforms Traditional Methods

<p>Details Consider this episode your Strengths-Based Leadership 101. BreAnne and Joe revisit the foundation of Zenger Folkman’s entire leadership philosophy — the data-driven insight that extraordinary leaders are not well-rounded; they’re exceptional in a few distinctive areas that matter most. Drawing from over 100,000 leadership assessments, Joe explains why traditional development programs focused on fixing … <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-177-why-strengths-based-development-outperforms-transitional-methods/">Continued</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-177-why-strengths-based-development-outperforms-transitional-methods/">Episode 177: Why Strengths-Based Development Outperforms Traditional Methods</a> first appeared on <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com">ZENGER FOLKMAN</a>.</p>

Oct 29, 202518 min

Episode 176 Jotun: A Case Study in Extraordinary Leadership

<p>Details In this special episode of The 90th Percentile, we unpack how Jotun—the Norway-based, family-owned paints and coatings company operating in 100+ countries—elevated leadership effectiveness using Zenger Folkman’s Extraordinary Leader program. Partnering with Arcadia Consulting, Jotun moved from a baseline well below industry average to outperforming peers, all by doubling down on a strengths-based approach … <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-176-jotun-case-study-in-extraordinary-leadership/">Continued</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-176-jotun-case-study-in-extraordinary-leadership/">Episode 176 Jotun: A Case Study in Extraordinary Leadership</a> first appeared on <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com">ZENGER FOLKMAN</a>.</p>

Oct 14, 202524 min

Episode 175: 7 Key Leadership Behaviors of the Most Effective Decision Makers

<p>Details What separates the best decision-makers from the rest? In this episode, Joe Folkman shares research on nearly 16,000 leaders to reveal seven key qualities that enable effective decision-making. Discover why information overload slows decisions down, how to balance speed with quality, and the surprising link between decision-making effectiveness and employee engagement. If you’re struggling … <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-175-7-key-leadership-behaviors-of-the-most-effective-decision-makers/">Continued</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-175-7-key-leadership-behaviors-of-the-most-effective-decision-makers/">Episode 175: 7 Key Leadership Behaviors of the Most Effective Decision Makers</a> first appeared on <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com">ZENGER FOLKMAN</a>.</p>

Oct 8, 202518 min

Episode 174: Making Development Popular with Desert Financial Credit Union

<p>Details In this episode of The 90th Percentile, we sit down with Kathleen Crenshaw and Christopher Bisgrove from Desert Financial Credit Union to explore how they are rethinking leadership development and investing in people. From building programs that reach leaders earlier in their careers to making learning opportunities more accessible, Desert Financial shares the principles … <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-174-making-development-popular-with-deseret-financial-credit-union/">Continued</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-174-making-development-popular-with-deseret-financial-credit-union/">Episode 174: Making Development Popular with Desert Financial Credit Union</a> first appeared on <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com">ZENGER FOLKMAN</a>.</p>

Sep 24, 202519 min

Episode 173: The Surprising Way Leadership Behaviors Go Viral at Work

<p>Details What if great leadership could go viral? In this episode of The 90th Percentile Podcast, Dr. Jack Zenger joins BreAnne Okoren to explore how positive leadership behaviors—like openness, respect, and accountability—spread through organizations and transform cultures. Drawing on decades of research, Jack reveals why developing leaders at scale creates psychological safety, sparks innovation, and … <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-173-the-surprising-way-leadership-behaviors-go-viral-at-work/">Continued</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-173-the-surprising-way-leadership-behaviors-go-viral-at-work/">Episode 173: The Surprising Way Leadership Behaviors Go Viral at Work</a> first appeared on <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com">ZENGER FOLKMAN</a>.</p>

Sep 17, 202517 min

Episode 172: Why Psychological Safety Matters More Than Ever

<p>Details Psychological safety is not a new term anymore, but it has matured into a foundational leadership capability, much like communication or trust no longer a “nice to have,” but a critical driver of collaboration, retention, and innovation. Drawing on Amy Edmondson’s groundbreaking research and Zenger Folkman’s data from 18,000 employees, they unpack the eight leadership behaviors that … <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-172-why-psychological-safety-matters-more-than-ever/">Continued</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-172-why-psychological-safety-matters-more-than-ever/">Episode 172: Why Psychological Safety Matters More Than Ever</a> first appeared on <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com">ZENGER FOLKMAN</a>.</p>

Sep 10, 2025

Bonus Episode– Susan David, Emotional Agility

<p>Details Dr. Susan David is a founder and co-director of the Institute of Coaching at McLean Hospital of Harvard Medical School and an Instructor in Psychology at Harvard University. In this episode, Susan discusses her research on emotional agility and how to master challenges without getting derailed. Download the eBook of her full interview here. Guest … <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/bonus-episode-susan-david-emotional-agility/">Continued</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/bonus-episode-susan-david-emotional-agility/">Bonus Episode– Susan David, Emotional Agility</a> first appeared on <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com">ZENGER FOLKMAN</a>.</p>

Sep 3, 202519 min

Episode 171: Memorable Leadership—10 Behaviors That Make Leaders Unforgettable

<p>Details In today’s episode, we’re unpacking the results of a massive leadership study — over 63,000 assessments — to answer one key question: What makes certain leaders truly unforgettable? We’ll explore the 10 specific behaviors that set the most exceptional leaders apart, backed by real-world examples from sports, business, and history. Whether you work in … <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-171-memorable-leadership-10-behaviors-that-make-leaders-unforgettable/">Continued</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-171-memorable-leadership-10-behaviors-that-make-leaders-unforgettable/">Episode 171: Memorable Leadership—10 Behaviors That Make Leaders Unforgettable</a> first appeared on <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com">ZENGER FOLKMAN</a>.</p>

Aug 20, 202517 min

Episode 170: AI, Speed, and the Future of Thoughtful Work

<p>Details In today’s episode of The 90th Percentile, we challenge one of the most persistent myths in modern work: that you must choose between speed and excellence. As AI accelerates productivity at lightning pace, many leaders are wondering—can humans keep up without compromising quality? Dr. Jack Zenger joins us to share groundbreaking research from over … <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-170-ai-speed-and-the-future-of-thoughtful-work/">Continued</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-170-ai-speed-and-the-future-of-thoughtful-work/">Episode 170: AI, Speed, and the Future of Thoughtful Work</a> first appeared on <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com">ZENGER FOLKMAN</a>.</p>

Jul 30, 202512 min

Episode 169: 10 Leadership Behaviors That Set Great Teams Apart

<p>Details In today’s episode, we’re unpacking new research from Zenger Folkman that reveals what truly separates high-performing teams from the rest. After analyzing 171 teams—many of which were struggling with negative customer feedback—we identified 10 key behaviors that predict whether a team will turn things around or stay stuck. If you’re leading teams or responsible … <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-169-10-leadership-behaviors-that-set-great-teams-apart/">Continued</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-169-10-leadership-behaviors-that-set-great-teams-apart/">Episode 169: 10 Leadership Behaviors That Set Great Teams Apart</a> first appeared on <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com">ZENGER FOLKMAN</a>.</p>

Jul 16, 202521 min

Episode 168: Well-Being Is a Business Strategy—Leadership Lessons from Druva

<p>Details In this episode of The 90th Percentile, we explore why wellbeing programs are more than just perks—they are a leadership imperative. Shanna Goodell shares how Druva is shifting the narrative around employee wellness, embedding it into leadership development, and addressing real-life challenges like women’s health in the workplace. From building inclusive spaces to driving … <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-168-well-being-is-a-business-strategy-leadership-lessons-from-druva/">Continued</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-168-well-being-is-a-business-strategy-leadership-lessons-from-druva/">Episode 168: Well-Being Is a Business Strategy—Leadership Lessons from Druva</a> first appeared on <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com">ZENGER FOLKMAN</a>.</p>

Jul 9, 202522 min

Episode 167: Flexible, Focused, and Future-Ready—L&D at Wright Service Corp.

<p>Details In this episode of The 90th Percentile, we sit down with Rose Christensen, Senior Learning & Development Leader at Wright Service Corp., to explore what it really takes to grow leaders across dispersed, specialized, and fast-growing teams. With over 6,000 employees spread across North America and roles ranging from field-based technicians to executives, Wright … <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-167-flexible-focused-and-future-ready-ld-at-wright-service-corp/">Continued</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-167-flexible-focused-and-future-ready-ld-at-wright-service-corp/">Episode 167: Flexible, Focused, and Future-Ready—L&D at Wright Service Corp.</a> first appeared on <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com">ZENGER FOLKMAN</a>.</p>

Jun 25, 202521 min

Episode 166: Can AI Be Your Coach? The Promise and Peril of AI in Leadership Development

<p>Details With pressure mounting on managers to coach more often and more effectively, can AI offer real help—or does it risk making coaching feel robotic? In this episode of The 90th Percentile, we talk with Mark Schaff, former Principal Learning Administrator at the Orange County Transportation Authority. Mark brings decades of coaching and leadership development … <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-166-can-ai-be-your-coach-the-promise-and-peril-of-ai-in-leadership-development/">Continued</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-166-can-ai-be-your-coach-the-promise-and-peril-of-ai-in-leadership-development/">Episode 166: Can AI Be Your Coach? The Promise and Peril of AI in Leadership Development</a> first appeared on <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com">ZENGER FOLKMAN</a>.</p>

Jun 18, 202522 min

Episode 165: Stop Training Leaders Alone—The Case for Team Development

<p>Details What if the biggest barrier to performance isn’t an individual leader—but the team itself? In this episode of The 90th Percentile, we speak with Paul Leboffe, longtime facilitator of Zenger Folkman’s Extraordinary Team experience. With 25+ years of business and legal expertise, Paul has helped teams uncover blind spots, strengthen trust, and dramatically improve … <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-165-stop-training-leaders-alone-the-case-for-team-development/">Continued</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-165-stop-training-leaders-alone-the-case-for-team-development/">Episode 165: Stop Training Leaders Alone—The Case for Team Development</a> first appeared on <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com">ZENGER FOLKMAN</a>.</p>

Jun 10, 202522 min

Episode 164: Control vs. Influence—What Today’s Leader’s Get Wrong

<p>Details In this episode of The 90th Percentile, we explore the enduring relevance of a decades-old leadership theory that feels more urgent than ever. Joe Folkman joins us to revisit Control Graph Theory—first introduced in the 1960s—and shares new research from over 200 teams showing why the total amount of influence in an organization matters … <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-164-control-vs-influence-what-todays-leaders-get-wrong/">Continued</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-164-control-vs-influence-what-todays-leaders-get-wrong/">Episode 164: Control vs. Influence—What Today’s Leader’s Get Wrong</a> first appeared on <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com">ZENGER FOLKMAN</a>.</p>

May 21, 202515 min

Episode 89: Employee Recognition– Improving the Substance and Delivery

<p>Details There’s a need to greatly increase the frequency and the quality of the recognition they give to their colleagues. That means recognition for people who report to them, their peers, and, yes, even their boss. The reality is that people in every direction in your organization need recognition. While the “great resignation” may have … <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-89-employee-recognition-improving-the-substance-and-delivery/">Continued</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-89-employee-recognition-improving-the-substance-and-delivery/">Episode 89: Employee Recognition– Improving the Substance and Delivery</a> first appeared on <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com">ZENGER FOLKMAN</a>.</p>

May 14, 202515 min

Episode 163: Staying the Course—Why Core Leadership Skills Still Matter

<p>Details In this episode of The 90th Percentile: An Unconventional Leadership Podcast, we sit down with Bard Parnell, Senior Manager of Learning and Development at Mesa Labs, to talk about what really drives effective leadership—especially in a time of nonstop disruption. While many organizations are quick to chase the latest leadership trends, Bard shares why … <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-163-staying-the-course-why-core-leadership-skills-still-matter/">Continued</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-163-staying-the-course-why-core-leadership-skills-still-matter/">Episode 163: Staying the Course—Why Core Leadership Skills Still Matter</a> first appeared on <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com">ZENGER FOLKMAN</a>.</p>

May 7, 202522 min

Episode 162: Building Resilient Leaders: Lessons from Core & Main

<p>Details In this episode, we’re diving into resilience—a critical skill for today’s leaders—with Evelyn Swanson, Vice President of Learning and Organizational Development at Core & Main. As a leading distributor of water, sewer, storm drain, and fire protection products, Core & Main has declared this year the “Year of the Resilient Leader.” Evelyn shares valuable … <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-162-building-resilient-leaders-lessons-from-core-main/">Continued</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-162-building-resilient-leaders-lessons-from-core-main/">Episode 162: Building Resilient Leaders: Lessons from Core & Main</a> first appeared on <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com">ZENGER FOLKMAN</a>.</p>

Apr 30, 202521 min

Episode 161: Then and Now—How the Pandemic Boosted Leadership Effectiveness

<p>Details When the pandemic hit, many expected a decline in leadership effectiveness due to burnout, isolation, and crisis fatigue. However, surprising research from Zenger Folkman revealed just the opposite: leaders didn’t deteriorate under pressure—they improved. In this insightful episode, Joe Folkman shares compelling data showing how the challenges of COVID-19 transformed leaders worldwide, enhancing their … <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-161-then-and-now-how-the-pandemic-boosted-leadership-effectiveness/">Continued</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-161-then-and-now-how-the-pandemic-boosted-leadership-effectiveness/">Episode 161: Then and Now—How the Pandemic Boosted Leadership Effectiveness</a> first appeared on <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com">ZENGER FOLKMAN</a>.</p>

Apr 23, 202517 min

Episode 159: Is One Leadership Style Better Than Others?

<p>Details In this episode, we’ll explore four distinct leadership styles—the Expert, the Connector, the Driver, and the Strategist—and reveal surprising findings about which approach yields the best results. We’ll also connect Joe’s research to Daniel Goleman’s six leadership styles featured in last year’s popular Harvard Business Review article, giving you practical insights on how to … <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-159-is-one-leadership-style-better-than-others/">Continued</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-159-is-one-leadership-style-better-than-others/">Episode 159: Is One Leadership Style Better Than Others?</a> first appeared on <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com">ZENGER FOLKMAN</a>.</p>

Mar 26, 202516 min

Episode 158: 5 Ways to Build a High-Performance Team

<p>Details Building a high-performance team isn’t just about hiring the right people—it’s about leading them in the right way. In this episode of The 90th Percentile, we sit down with leadership expert Jack Zenger to uncover five key behaviors that separate exceptional teams from dysfunctional ones. Based on research from over 66,000 respondents, Jack shares … <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-158-5-ways-to-build-a-high-performance-team/">Continued</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-158-5-ways-to-build-a-high-performance-team/">Episode 158: 5 Ways to Build a High-Performance Team</a> first appeared on <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com">ZENGER FOLKMAN</a>.</p>

Mar 19, 202518 min

Episode 7: The Enigma of Positive and Negative Feedback

<p>Would you rather hear positive feedback about your performance or suggestions for improvement? Does preferring positive feedback make you seem weak, and is corrective feedback really that helpful? Whether you’re a CEO, manager, teacher, or parent we all give and receive feedback. In this episode, we discuss the emotional complexities and science behind the positive … <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-7-the-enigma-of-positive-and-negative-feedback/">Continued</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-7-the-enigma-of-positive-and-negative-feedback/">Episode 7: The Enigma of Positive and Negative Feedback</a> first appeared on <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com">ZENGER FOLKMAN</a>.</p>

Feb 19, 202512 min

Episode 156: What To Do When The Boss Gives You Baseless Feedback

<p>Details Receiving feedback at work can be tough—it’s natural to feel uncomfortable when you’re told you’re not doing something well. That doesn’t make you ‘arrogant ‘ or ‘ too defensive and won’t take feedback’—it means you obviously care about how you’re doing at work, and that’s a good thing. But what happens when the feedback … <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-156-what-to-do-when-the-boss-gives-you-baseless-feedback/">Continued</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-156-what-to-do-when-the-boss-gives-you-baseless-feedback/">Episode 156: What To Do When The Boss Gives You Baseless Feedback</a> first appeared on <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com">ZENGER FOLKMAN</a>.</p>

Feb 12, 202517 min

Episode 155: The 7 Minor Leadership Behaviors That Actually Determine Your Success

<p>Details In today’s fast-paced business environment, leaders often focus on grand strategies and bold initiatives, overlooking the foundational behaviors that shape their success. It’s easy to rationalize small missteps, telling ourselves they don’t really matter in the grand scheme of things. However, our research paints a different picture. When we analyzed 60 distinct leadership behaviors, … <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-155-the-7-minor-leadership-behaviors-that-actually-determine-your-success/">Continued</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-155-the-7-minor-leadership-behaviors-that-actually-determine-your-success/">Episode 155: The 7 Minor Leadership Behaviors That Actually Determine Your Success</a> first appeared on <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com">ZENGER FOLKMAN</a>.</p>

Feb 5, 202517 min

Episode 153: Finding Joy as a Leader (Even on the Hard Days)

<p>Details When work and life are overwhelming, it can be difficult to reclaim a sense of joy at work. Research has shown the benefits of incorporating joy, hope, and optimism into the workplace to combat burnout and improve well-being. Our guest today is Daisey Auger-Dominguez, a Chief People Officer, workplace strategist, speaker, and author on … <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-153-finding-joy-as-a-leader-even-on-the-hard-days/">Continued</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-153-finding-joy-as-a-leader-even-on-the-hard-days/">Episode 153: Finding Joy as a Leader (Even on the Hard Days)</a> first appeared on <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com">ZENGER FOLKMAN</a>.</p>

Jan 15, 202524 min

Episode 152: How Much Does Passion Influence Performance?

<p>Details As we step into a new year filled with possibilities, this episode of The 90th Percentile dives into the powerful connection between passion and performance. Hosts Bre and Joe explore Zenger Folkman’s groundbreaking research on how passion influences leadership effectiveness, with compelling stories like Koel Thomae’s journey to build Noosa Yoghurt. They discuss the … <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-152-how-much-does-passion-influence-performance/">Continued</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-152-how-much-does-passion-influence-performance/">Episode 152: How Much Does Passion Influence Performance?</a> first appeared on <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com">ZENGER FOLKMAN</a>.</p>

Jan 6, 202516 min

Zenger Folkman Holiday Message 2024

<p>Details This holiday, we encourage you to find stability and joy in the customs that have persisted for generations. Though the world may sometimes feel uncertain, the enduring spirit of the holidays can provide comfort, connection, and hope. Connect with Joe Folkman LinkedIn Twitter Webinar Zenger Folkman hosts an exclusive live webinar every month, where … <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/zenger-folkman-holiday-message-2024/">Continued</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/zenger-folkman-holiday-message-2024/">Zenger Folkman Holiday Message 2024</a> first appeared on <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com">ZENGER FOLKMAN</a>.</p>

Dec 23, 20242 min

Episode 151: 3 Ways to Help Employees Love Their Jobs

<p>Details Do the people you manage love their jobs? Or do you sense that some are dissatisfied or disengaged? It’s no secret that employees who love their jobs work harder and are willing to go the extra mile, which benefits any organization. While the core of great leadership remains unchanged, the landscape of work has … <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-151-having-a-blue-christmas-3-ways-to-help-employees-love-their-jobs/">Continued</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-151-having-a-blue-christmas-3-ways-to-help-employees-love-their-jobs/">Episode 151: 3 Ways to Help Employees Love Their Jobs</a> first appeared on <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com">ZENGER FOLKMAN</a>.</p>

Dec 11, 202412 min

Episode 150: The Unexpected Strengths of Each Generation of Leaders

<p>Details Picture a modern workplace leadership meeting: A Baby Boomer executive types deliberately on her laptop while referencing printed handouts, a Gen X director efficiently leads the agenda via his tablet, and a Millennial manager seamlessly orchestrates remote team participation through multiple digital platforms. This isn’t just a scene of technological evolution – it’s a … <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-150-the-unexpected-strengths-of-each-generation-of-leaders/">Continued</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-150-the-unexpected-strengths-of-each-generation-of-leaders/">Episode 150: The Unexpected Strengths of Each Generation of Leaders</a> first appeared on <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com">ZENGER FOLKMAN</a>.</p>

Nov 27, 202415 min

Episode 149: Building Empathy and Drive at the Same Time

<p>Details In a time where AI disrupts traditional workplace dynamics and remote work reshapes human connections, business leaders face a crucial question: How do we maintain our humanity while driving results? The answer might surprise those who still cling to the “tough boss” stereotype. In our episode today we’re discussing how most effective leaders aren’t … <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-149-building-empathy-and-drive-at-the-same-time/">Continued</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-149-building-empathy-and-drive-at-the-same-time/">Episode 149: Building Empathy and Drive at the Same Time</a> first appeared on <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com">ZENGER FOLKMAN</a>.</p>

Nov 19, 202413 min

Episode 148: The Real Key to Employee Engagement—Leadership Over Location

<p>Details Have you noticed a remarkable shift where major companies are mandating return to office policies. Amazon recently joined the ranks of Meta, Google, and others in requiring employees to return full time to the office. What’s particularly interesting is the timing – why now, after years of remote work? We all know that organizations … <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-148-the-real-key-to-employee-engagement-leadership-over-location/">Continued</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-148-the-real-key-to-employee-engagement-leadership-over-location/">Episode 148: The Real Key to Employee Engagement—Leadership Over Location</a> first appeared on <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com">ZENGER FOLKMAN</a>.</p>

Nov 6, 202415 min

Episode 147: Listening—An Essential Tool for Building Trust

<p>Details In a time with constant communication and information overload, the ability to truly listen stands out as a cornerstone for building trust within teams. In this episode, We’ll explore how listening practices vary across cultures and organizations, the growing awareness of its importance in leadership, and the challenges leaders face in balancing listening with … <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-147-listening-an-essential-tool-for-building-trust/">Continued</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-147-listening-an-essential-tool-for-building-trust/">Episode 147: Listening—An Essential Tool for Building Trust</a> first appeared on <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com">ZENGER FOLKMAN</a>.</p>

Oct 30, 202415 min

Episode 146: Quality And Quantity Are Not Trade-offs—How Some Leaders Are Choosing Both

<p>Details In today’s episode, we dive into a fascinating topic that many leaders grapple with—quality versus quantity. Are they truly competing objectives, or can organizations achieve both simultaneously? We’ll unpack findings from a recent study that examines leaders’ preferences for quality or quantity and what the data tells us about leadership effectiveness. From industry trends … <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-146-quality-and-quantity-are-not-trade-offs-how-some-leaders-are-choosing-both/">Continued</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-146-quality-and-quantity-are-not-trade-offs-how-some-leaders-are-choosing-both/">Episode 146: Quality And Quantity Are Not Trade-offs—How Some Leaders Are Choosing Both</a> first appeared on <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com">ZENGER FOLKMAN</a>.</p>

Oct 23, 202416 min

Episode 145: What You Should Know About Coachability Through Career Decades

<p>Details Today we are looking at coachability and its intriguing role across different career decades. Each stage in our professional lives—whether it’s the exploration of the 20s, the depth-building of the 30s, the influence and leadership in the 40s, or the legacy-building in the 50s and beyond—comes with unique challenges and opportunities. By understanding how … <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-145-what-you-should-know-about-coachability-through-career-decades/">Continued</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-145-what-you-should-know-about-coachability-through-career-decades/">Episode 145: What You Should Know About Coachability Through Career Decades</a> first appeared on <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com">ZENGER FOLKMAN</a>.</p>

Oct 9, 202426 min

Episode 144: Connecting The Manager, Employee, and Customer Satisfaction Chain

<p>Details In this episode of The 90th Percentile, hosts BreAnne Okoren and Joe Folkman explore the powerful connection between leadership, employee engagement, and customer satisfaction. Drawing on research and real-world examples from companies like Sears and Zappos, they discuss how effective leadership drives employee engagement, which in turn boosts customer satisfaction and profitability. They also … <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-144-connecting-the-manager-employee-and-customer-satisfaction-chain/">Continued</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-144-connecting-the-manager-employee-and-customer-satisfaction-chain/">Episode 144: Connecting The Manager, Employee, and Customer Satisfaction Chain</a> first appeared on <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com">ZENGER FOLKMAN</a>.</p>

Oct 2, 202414 min

Episode 143: Are You Surviving or Thriving With AI?

<p>Details We can all admit that we have felt a little threatened by AI. After all its whole purpose is improve and ultimately replace Human intelligence. And leadership will not be spared by the impact of AI. Certain leadership qualities, such as deep domain expertise, decisiveness, authority, and short-term task focus, are losing their impact, … <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-143-are-you-surviving-or-thriving-with-ai/">Continued</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-143-are-you-surviving-or-thriving-with-ai/">Episode 143: Are You Surviving or Thriving With AI?</a> first appeared on <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com">ZENGER FOLKMAN</a>.</p>

Sep 24, 2024

Episode 142: Trust and Resolving Conflict in the Workplace—Key Behaviors for Leaders

<p>Details Recently, a compelling question emerged: How do trust and conflict resolution impact a leader’s effectiveness? To explore this, we analyzed a robust dataset of 360-degree assessments from 4,347 leaders, collected over the past three years. In environments where leaders are untrustworthy or avoid resolving conflicts, dissatisfaction and disengagement flourish. Conversely, trusted leaders who adeptly … <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-142-trust-and-resolving-conflict-in-the-workplace-key-behaviors-for-leaders/">Continued</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-142-trust-and-resolving-conflict-in-the-workplace-key-behaviors-for-leaders/">Episode 142: Trust and Resolving Conflict in the Workplace—Key Behaviors for Leaders</a> first appeared on <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com">ZENGER FOLKMAN</a>.</p>

Sep 11, 202413 min

Episode 76: Identifying and Managing Micro-stressors

<p>Details Stress comes to us all in tiny minor assaults throughout our day through relationships and interactions that are too numerous to shake off quickly. The problem is that most of us have come to accept micro-stresses as just a normal part of a day, but they are wearing us down. In our episode, Karen … <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-76-identifying-and-managing-micro-stressors/">Continued</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com/episode-76-identifying-and-managing-micro-stressors/">Episode 76: Identifying and Managing Micro-stressors</a> first appeared on <a href="https://zengerfolkman.com">ZENGER FOLKMAN</a>.</p>

Jul 30, 202423 min