Gut + Science

Dr. Paul Zak believes grounding leadership in emotional fitness is crucial to both professional success and personal well-being. In this episode, Paul joins Nikki Lewallen Gregory to explore the critical role of emotional fitness within leadership and workplace culture. A renowned expert on human connection, Paul advocates for leaders to craft emotionally fit environments that serve employees and promote a harmonious work-life balance. Emphasizing the link between engaged workers and positive energy in both professional spaces and at home, Paul spotlights impactful strategies such as the emotional fitness app Tuesday. This episode underlines leaders’ need to embrace emotional health as a foundation for a dynamic and fulfilling organizational culture. Additional Resources: Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network Connect with Paul on LinkedIn Learn more about Immersion Check out BestTuesdayEver.com

In this episode, Katherine Coble highlights a disconnect with executive transparency and stresses the overlooked but crucial role of managers as communicators. She unravels the challenges that managers face when striving to be effective communicators and how this disconnect can hinder a company's success. Katherine explores the reasons why managers might need to realize the critical nature of their role as communicators and provides actionable tips to elevate their skills in this area. Katherine is a communication expert and partner at Borshoff, a prominent integrated marketing communications agency. Recognizing the power of effective dialogue in organizational success, she spearheads this monthly series on Gut+Science, "In the Loop: Communicating for Maximum Leadership Impact.” Additional Resources:Connect with Katherine Coble on LinkedIn Learn more about Borshoff ’Mushroom Management’ Research Report The Future of the Office Has Arrived: It’s Hybrid Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network

Steven Van Cohen believes social disconnection is a silent epidemic in the workplace. Steven, best-selling author and connection expert, joins host Nikki Lewallen Gregory to dive into the importance of fostering authentic connections in the workplace. This conversation traverses the landscape of employee engagement, revealing how a focus on intentionality in relationships boosts performance and well-being. Steven brings to the table personal stories, strategies for enhancing team cohesion through impactful engagement initiatives such as impact lunches, and insights on the importance of recognizing individual behavior and love languages. He cites clients like Netflix and Core Mining as exemplars in creating culture-rich onboarding and check-in processes. Additional Resources: Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network Connect with Steven on LinkedIn Check out LessLonely.com

Renée Smith believes that when leaders embrace love, they can create meaningful and transformative work experiences. In this episode, she takes us on a journey, sharing her expertise on creating more loving and human workplaces through clarity. She discusses the significance of organizational, individual, and team clarity in fostering environments where people thrive. She emphasizes the role of clear purpose and goals, role clarity, and setting up working agreements within teams. Additional Resources: Connect with Renée on LinkedIn Learn more about a Human Workplace Thrive Assessment Lack of Clarity Drives Work Stress Article Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network

Matt Lesser’s journey from family business challenges to triumphs in private equity has shaped his worldview on creating flourishing organizations. He joins host Nikki Llewellyn Gregory to share the profound pillars of his philosophy—empathy, empowerment, and excellence—a framework that speaks to the heart of his books "Unsatisfied: When Less is More" and "Unengaged: Building Flourishing Organizations." His insights touch on the delicate balance of navigating sacrifices as a leader, the art of embracing struggles, and the importance of human connections in business success. Additional Resources: Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network Connect with Matt on LinkedIn Learn more about Uniquely Normal Book: unEngaged: Building Flourishing Organizations Book: UnSatisfied: When Less Is More

Zech Dahms is a culture strategist and employee experience expert who thrives in efforts that transform workplaces with innovative, meaningful people strategies that lead the future of work. In this episode, Zech joins Nikki Lewallen Gregory as a fellow advocate for strategic peer learning. They discuss the need for structured mentorship conversations and the rich, sometimes unexpected, outcomes of peer groups, such as new business initiatives. The long-term benefits of deep peer relationships are a focal point, alongside Zech's examples of community programs that bolster HR leadership and skill development. Additional Resources: Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network Connect with Zech on LinkedIn  Learn more about achievement Engagement  

As a visionary in creating learning organizations, Dr. Kevin Berkopes shares game-changing insights on building a culture where innovation isn't just an outcome—it's part of his company's DNA. Kevin, CEO of MathTrack shares with host Nikki Lewallen Gregory about creating a dynamic space where innovation isn't an afterthought but an everyday reality. By fostering a culture that values every team member's input, challenging old beliefs, and embracing constraints as opportunities for growth, leaders can craft an atmosphere where continuous learning becomes the cornerstone of organizational success. Additional Resources: Connect with Dr. Kevin Berkopes Learn more about MathTrack Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network

Katherine Coble believes most leaders’ most significant factor between success and failure is communication. In this episode, Katherine launched her monthly In the Loop series on the Gut+Science podcast, which offers a glimpse into the crucial role of communication in leadership. She delves into the impact of workplace engagement and the staggering costs associated with disengagement, emphasizing employees' emotional commitment toward their organization's goals.    Additional Resources: Connect with Katherine Coble on LinkedIn Learn more about Borshoff Blog: Flip Your Focus: The Value of Internal-First Crisis Communication Strategies Blog: Using Podcasting to Build People-First Workplaces Blog: Can marketing (to your employees) save your organization? Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network

In this episode of Gut+Science, host Nikki Lewallen Gregory is joined by Ken Midgett, a seasoned expert in creating impactful training experiences. Ken's extensive background in the business world, entrepreneurship, and education has led him to passionately focus on the transformative power of training. Ken eloquently emphasizes the pivotal role training plays in building confidence and enhancing business outcomes. He highlights the imperative need for a shift in mindset among leaders, emphasizing the importance of culture, engagement, and alignment with the why behind training. Additional Resources: Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Connect with Ken on LinkedIn Learn more about Interplay Learning Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network

Renée Smith believes that when leaders embrace love, they can create meaningful and transformative work experiences. In this episode, she takes us on a journey into the concept of courageous leadership and its impact on organizational well-being. Renée shares valuable insights on creating a safe, courageous, and vulnerable work environment that fosters growth and fulfillment. She offers actionable advice to leaders on appreciating and supporting courage in the workplace, and the profound connection between courage and organizational performance. Additional Resources: Connect with Renée on LinkedIn Learn more about a Human Workplace Thrive Assessment Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network

Pioneering a paradigm shift in the corporate world, Jessica Bench has become the catalyst for a global movement emphasizing psychological safety within the workplace through Vanguard Voices. With a vision that took root within the confines of her large pharma company, Jessica’s initiative has flourished, now engaging thousands of enthusiasts and transcending the boundaries of her initial domain. In this episode of Gut+Science, Jessica joins Nikki Lewallen Gregory to delve into the critical nature of psychological safety as the bedrock of team success and organizational health. She unpacks the disconnect between stated company values and real actions, along with tangible strategies for fostering an environment where everyone feels empowered to speak up without fear. Additional Resources: Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Connect with Jessica on LinkedIn Learn more about Vanguard Voices Learn more about Speak Up Summit Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network  

Gut+Science is launching a brand new series that explores the essential role of clear and impactful communication in creating continuous connections with employees. Host Katherine Coble will explore practical strategies that you can use to enhance your communication skills while also giving you some ideas for useful tools that can help you improve clarity. The goal of the ‘In the Loop’ of Gut + Science is to inspire and equip leaders to be better communicators, ultimately impacting both employee and customer experiences. Additional Resources:   Connect with Katherine Coble on LinkedIn Learn more about Borshoff Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network

Susan Lindner is a passionate storyteller who has made a significant impact on both startups and Fortune 500 companies. Susan is joining Nikki Lewallen Gregory to share her insights on the power of storytelling to drive movements, create connections, and elicit real, meaningful change. Together, they dive deep into the power of storytelling and its ability to create movements, build connections, and ignite change. Susan and Nikki share their expertise on how storytelling can transcend logic and tap into the emotional core of our brains. They discuss the impact of storytelling on memory, engagement, and motivation, as well as the role of vulnerability in creating authentic connections. Susan also gives us a sneak peek into her upcoming book, "Billion Dollar Storytelling," which offers actionable insights for crafting stories that drive billion-dollar buy-ins. Listen in as we learn to harness the power of storytelling with two of the industry's finest. Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation! Additional Resources: Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network Connect with Susan on LinkedIn Learn more about Innovation Storytellers

Krista Pell passionately believes in the profound impact that talent has on differentiating organizations. She brings a dynamic perspective as the Chief People, Culture, and Engagement Officer at AIMCo. With a passion for unlocking human potential, she joins Nikki Lewallen Gregory to dive into the nuances of enabling people to achieve their best work. Krista champions the art of beginning with what's "good" to pave the way for greatness, advocating for tailored work environments that respect individual needs and styles. In this enlightening episode, she reveals the power of self-reflection for leaders, the magic of asking potent questions, and the significance of understanding before problem-solving. Infused with practical wisdom, from the pages of her favorite book to the athletic fields of her experiences, Krista's narrative is a compelling call to action for leaders to listen first, embrace simplicity, and cultivate safe spaces for progress, leaving listeners invigorated to elevate their leadership and empower their teams alongside Nikki. Additional Resources:  Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network Connect with Krista Pell Learn more about AIMCo  

Renée Smith believes leaders can create meaningful and transformative work experiences when they embrace love. In this episode, she takes us on a journey, sharing her insights on creating a thriving workplace culture. She discusses the six thrive factors and practical steps to cultivate a thriving environment. Renee fights against fear based leadership and helps us learn how to lead with love and do it in such an empowering way. Be ready to be inspired to make work more human and lead with love in this series of Gut + Science with Renée called To Work: With Love. Additional Resources: Connect with Renée on LinkedIn Learn more about a Human Workplace Thrive Assessment Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network

In this episode, we’re diving deep into a revolutionary training model with our distinguished guest, Nate Roberts, the CEO of Hometown Logistics and the 2023 People Forward Impact award winner. Nate unpacks the five transformative growth stages developed by the leadership team at Hometown: Motivation, Persistence, Stick with it, Paying the Rent, and Wanting More. He and Nikki explore why simply chasing money isn't enough, how daily discipline paves the way for progress, and the importance of embracing challenges for continuous improvement. Additional Resources: Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Connect with Nate Roberts on LinkedIn Hometown Logistics LLC Website Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network

Jenna Spencer knows first-hand that delegation is the gateway to growth and impact. In this episode, she tells Nikki how delegation can give us more time, capacity, and energy, ultimately leading to business growth and personal resilience. As the Founder and Visionary at AssistPro®, a fractional executive assistant agency, she’s sharing her proprietary DASH Method™ for effective delegation, emphasizing the importance of ownership over tasks with us. Additional Resources:Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Follow Jenna on LinkedIn Dash Method Key Responsibility Clarifier Launch Guide (Time Maximizer included) Learn more about AssistPro AssistPro on Facebook Follow AssistPro on LinkedIn AssistPro on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network

Jim Bishop is particularly intrigued by the concept of reactive leadership, which he describes as a "playing not to lose" mentality. Jim talks Nikki through leaders can do more leading and less reacting as they create more good in the world. Jim's expertise in leadership theories and human behavior makes him a captivating figure for those eager to delve into the nuances of personal and organizational leadership styles. Additional Resources:  Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network Jim Bishop on LinkedIn Conjunction Leadership Website Mistakes Were Made (But Not by Me) Book

Workplace culture, it’s an essential yet often overlooked aspect of business success and it’s Chellie Phillips’ sweet spot. Chellie is the international bestselling author of "Culture Secrets" and a powerhouse of knowledge on fostering a positive workplace environment. As Chellie and Nikki unravel the acronym V.A.L.U.E., we’ll learn how vision, accountability, and trackable behaviors can not only empower teams but also free up leaders to focus on growth. Additional Resources: Chellie Phillips on LinkedIn Website for Chillie Phillips Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network Check out Flying-Solo E-Book

Aaron Kopel is a mastermind in leadership transformation. Aaron shared his secrets to becoming a self-aware leader who masters the art of the 'why' to rally teams and drive genuine progress. From asking powerful questions to embracing a catalyst mindset for the long haul, Aaron's wisdom is your blueprint for leading with agility. He joins Nikki to discuss the critical shift from being just a hands-on doer to becoming a transformative leader. Through a riveting discussion, Aaron sheds light on the leadership agility model, which comprises three levels: the expert leader, the achiever leader, and the high-reaching system leader. Check out the conversation for full insights! Additional Resources: Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network Connect with Aaron on LinkedIn Learn more about Project Brilliant