November 2022

In this episode of Control the Room, I had the pleasure of speaking with Dethra Giles about her decades of experience working in Human Resources with a focus on Diversity and Inclusion.  She begins with reflections on how ‘playing teacher’ as a child influenced her career.  Later, Dethra explores cultures of connection and how they transcended the transition to virtual workforces.  We also discuss how diversity initiatives need to set new leaders up for success.  Listen in for tips on how to think about unconscious bias.

In this episode of Control the Room, I had the pleasure of speaking with Matthew Skelton about his journey in organization dynamics.  He starts with reflections on people and cohesion.  Later, Matthew shares how he applied software principles to teams.   We also discuss simple tips for balancing cognitive load when considering the big picture and getting stuff done.  Listen in for thoughts on how to be more intentional in doing organizational work.

In this episode of Control the Room, I had the pleasure of speaking with Tom Geraghty about his journey helping make the world of work a safer, higher performing, more inclusive and equitable place. He starts with reflections on microaggressions in the workplace. Later, Tom shares why he helps organizations embrace emergence and experimentation. We also discuss simple tips for finding the sweet spot between productivity and exploring. Listen in for thoughts on how and why embracing discomfort and disagreement lead to higher performing teams.

In this episode of Control the Room, I had the pleasure of speaking with Mika Cross about her journey helping both private and public sectors transform the workplace. She starts with reflections on how her time in the military helped shape her perspective on workplace transformation. Later, Mika shares why she fell in love with people, process, culture, and performance consulting. We also discuss simple tips for improving psychological safety in large bureaucratic organizations. Listen in for thoughts on how and why companies need to invest in workplace culture.

In this episode of Control the Room, I had the pleasure of speaking with Kelly Leonard about his three-plus decades managing the legendary sketch comedy group The Second City.  He begins with reflections on the shared origins of team improvisation and social work.  Later, Kelly explores self-verification theory and how it can lead to stronger relationships faster.   We also discuss group brainstorming and breaking down silos.  Listen in for a plan to save the world by improving listening skills.