Building Better Managers

In this episode, Meighan Hackett Poritz, managing director of the Learning Forum, discusses the importance of peer learning and collaboration among leaders in the workplace. She talks about the evolution of work dynamics post-pandemic, the significance of trust in professional relationships, and innovative practices in talent development. The conversation highlights the need for a coaching culture within organizations and the role of networking in fostering growth and development among managers and leaders. Key takeaways: The world of work has seen major shifts in the past year. Confidential peer learning fosters trust and meaningful relationships. Access to instant benchmarking is crucial for leaders today. Innovation and inspiration are more important than ever. The pandemic has amplified the urgency of workforce-related topics. Companies are exploring advances in technology for training. Creating a culture of coaching is essential for growth. Networking allows for the exchange of valuable insights. Trust and confidentiality are foundational in coaching relationships. Promoting a culture of development and learning is key.   About Meighan Hackett Poritz: Meighan is the Managing Director of The Learning Forum,  is a member-driven networking organization for senior executives of large multi-national and government organizations. Member firms include over 120 organizations which include 5 of the Fortune 10, 25 of the Fortune 100, along with 10 key government organizations. Her councils provide leaders access to confidential peer learning through a high trust network.  They are a platform for ideas, inspiration, and benchmarking which has a lasting impact on the strategy and growth programs of Fortune 500 companies.   Meighan completed an Ironman triathlon and raised $10,000 for blood cancer research. She is passionate about the emerging trends that link sustainability, personal well being, productive workplaces, and communities. Meighan's Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/meighanhackett/ Website: http://www.thelearningforum.org/ Do you enjoy our show? One of the best ways to help us out is leave a 5-star review on your platform of choice! It's easy - just go here: https://www.newlevelwork.com/review For more information, please visit the New Level Work website. https://www.newlevelwork.com/category/podcast © 2019 - 2025 New Level Work

Dedicated and high-performing Executive Coach and former Vice President of Coaching at New Level Work, Karen Benz, explores the nuances of coaching in leadership. Learn the importance of understanding what coaching is and isn't, the concept of directed coaching, and the significance of building a strong coaching community. This conversation with host Wendy Hanson highlights the transformative 'Aha' moments experienced by managers during coaching sessions, the differences between internal and external coaching, and the power of perspective in facilitating growth. The importance of feedback and the value of coaching in today's workplace is emphasized, especially in navigating challenges brought on by recent global events. Key takeaways: Coaching is about building individual leadership skills through goal setting. Directed coaching combines traditional coaching with the coach's expertise. A strong coaching community enhances the experience for both coaches and clients. Aha moments in coaching can lead to significant personal and professional growth. External coaches can provide a fresh perspective free from organizational politics. Perspective shifts can help clients see situations differently and improve their management style. Feedback is essential for growth and improvement in coaching. Coaching is an investment in personal and professional development, not a remedial action. Clients must be motivated to engage fully in the coaching process. The relationship between coach and client is crucial for effective coaching. Meet Karen: Karen Benz is an experienced Executive Coach (and former VP of Coaching at NLW) with an extensive background in leadership and management. She holds a B.S. (Bryant University) and M.S. in Management (Salve Regina University). Her experience spans most industries including technology, finance, health care, defense, manufacturing, service, nonprofit, government, and education. Karen has a certification in DISC and has taught business courses at the university level for over 10 years. She also has experience as the Chief Operating Officer of an ambulatory health care facility located in Rhode Island. Karen is a certified graduate of Corporate Coach University. She is the VP of Coaching at New Level Work and is based in Rhode Island. Karen's Links: Your LinkedIn URL: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karenbenz/ Do you enjoy our show? One of the best ways to help us out is leave a 5-star review on your platform of choice! It's easy - just go here: https://www.newlevelwork.com/review For more information, please visit the New Level Work website. https://www.newlevelwork.com/category/podcast © 2019 - 2025 New Level Work

In this encore episode with Tim Creasey, we discuss the critical aspects of change management in organizations, especially in the context of the post-pandemic workplace. We explore the importance of understanding the people side of change, the role of managers as change agents, and the need for effective communication and support for employees during transitions. Tim emphasizes that successful change requires both technical solutions and the engagement of people, highlighting the evolving expectations of employees and the necessity for managers to adapt to new realities. Key takeaways: Change is inevitable and affects all businesses. Support for team members is crucial during transitions. The pandemic accelerated the need for digital transformation. The people side of change is often overlooked but essential. Successful change requires both technical and people sides. Managers play a critical role in facilitating change. Communication from managers is vital for employee understanding. Transparency is important to prevent misinformation. Employees need to feel valued and that they matter. Adaptability is key in the evolving workplace. Meet Tim: Tim Creasey is the Chief Innovation Officer at Prosci, a global research and advisory firm focused on change management. He is an internationally recognized thought leader, author, and speaker on the topic of change management, with over 25 years of experience in the field. Tim has extensive experience in speaking to large audiences globally and empowering them with actionable insights that are authentic, knowledgeable, and engagingly humorous. Tim's Links: Your LinkedIn URL: https://www.linkedin.com/in/TimCreasey Website Address: https://www.prosci.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCpROP3F4AOo2ixTuq5KQhBw Do you enjoy our show? One of the best ways to help us out is leave a 5-star review on your platform of choice! It's easy - just go here: https://www.newlevelwork.com/review For more information, please visit the New Level Work website. https://www.newlevelwork.com/category/podcast © 2019 - 2025 New Level Work

Join us for a special episode of Building Better Managers as we explore the intersection of humor and artificial intelligence with Dr. Melissa Looney. Discover how AI is shaping the future of higher education and the role humor plays in learning environments. As we look forward to 2025, learn about New Level Work's innovative AI product, Leora, and the importance of curiosity in the age of AI. Tune in for insights, laughter, and a glimpse into the future of communication. In this episode: Impact of AI in Universities The Role of Humor in Learning AI and Humor: A Final Frontier Future Research Directions Meet Melissa: Director of Learning, Development, and Engagement Strategies at Bentley University Strategic and passionate learning professional with 13 years of experience in higher education Doctoral candidate at the University of Central Florida, focusing on humor in instructional contexts and the use of artificial intelligence to enhance interpersonal interactions Melissa's Contact Info: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissamlooney/ Do you enjoy our show? One of the easiest ways to help us out is to drop us a 5-star review on your platform of choice! https://www.newlevelwork.com/review For more information, please visit the New Level Work website. https://www.newlevelwork.com/category/podcast © 2019 - 2024 New Level Work

In our latest episode, Wendy sits down with Chris Wells, VP Sales EMEA, New Level Work, to explore how personal connections can redefine success in management and leadership. Chris shares a transformative story from his career, highlighting the importance of understanding personal goals over business objectives. Discover the surprising similarities between HR, L&D, and sales professionals and learn how empathy can transform your management style. Don't miss this insightful conversation packed with valuable lessons for anyone looking to enhance their leadership skills. Listen now and join us on this journey to building better managers. Meet Chris: Chris leads New Level Work’s European division and brings nearly three decades of experience in learning and leadership development. With a passion for helping organizations unlock the full potential of their people, Chris partners globally to create leadership programs that don’t just impact employees, but extend beyond the workplace—positively influencing families, friends, and entire communities. Chris' Links: Your LinkedIn URL: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cjwells Website Address: https://www.newlevelwork.com/ Do you enjoy our show? One of the easiest ways to help us out is to drop us a 5-star review on your platform of choice! https://www.newlevelwork.com/review For more information, please visit the New Level Work website. https://www.newlevelwork.com/category/podcast © 2019 - 2024 New Level Work

In our latest episode, we explore the dynamic world of healthcare leadership with Kristine Ellis from GuideWell. Discover how this health solutions company is utilizing innovative AI strategies to enhance team efficiency and security. Kristine shares her insights on leading through change, the critical role of coaching, and fostering collaboration across a geographically diverse workforce. Whether you're in healthcare or interested in leadership strategies, this episode offers valuable lessons on supporting mental health and building trust within teams. Don't miss out—listen now and be inspired by GuideWell's transformative journey! Meet Kristine: Kristine Ellis is the Director of Talent Development for GuideWell, a $30 billion not-for-profit, mission-driven enterprise focused on transforming health care. At GuideWell, she leads an Employee and Executive Leadership Development team which has received the Association for Talent Development Best Award 10 times and is currently ranked twelfth on ATD’s global Best Awards list. Kristine works with employees, leaders, and executives on topics such as communication, competency development, strategic thinking, personal branding, and work-life balance. She is a well-known expert in her field and has spoken nationally on a variety of leadership topics at ATD events and other conferences for educators, and healthcare and finance professionals. In her own leadership and in her world-class programs, she combines passion with extensive leadership development experience and a unique coaching approach that emphasizes the importance of servant leadership and empathic communication. Kristine's Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristine-ellis-med-mpc-pcc Website: https://www.guidewell.com/who-we-are/our-businesses Do you enjoy our show? One of the easiest ways to help us out is to drop us a 5-star review on your platform of choice! https://www.newlevelwork.com/review For more information, please visit the New Level Work website. https://www.newlevelwork.com/category/podcast © 2019 - 2024 New Level Work

Join host Wendy Hanson in this enlightening episode of Building Better Managers, where we explore the transformative power of kindness in the workplace with guest Christy Pretzinger. Christy, a high-energy entrepreneur and founder of WG Content, shares her insights on fostering a people-focused culture and the importance of self-awareness and vulnerability in leadership. Discover how kindness can drive productivity and business success, and learn about the innovative coaching solutions offered by New Level Work to support managers and leaders. Tune in to uncover strategies for creating environments where people can thrive. In this episode: Importance of Kindness Introducing Christy Pretzinger Self-Awareness in Leadership Vulnerability and Trust Building a Business on Kindness WG Content and Healthcare Meet Christy: Christy Pretzinger is a high-energy entrepreneur and she’s passionate about building environments where people can thrive. Her organization, WG Content, has transformed the landscape of healthcare content creation. Being among the first to specialize in healthcare content, we grew up with the industry, and WG Content is now an industry-leading agency that delivers superior content strategy and creation to healthcare brands across the country. She says: And while I am exceedingly proud of the work we do, the myriad services we provide and the impressive client list, my passion and focus is on ensuring that as we grow, our people-focused culture continues to be the core of our organization. I want to share my passion for creating an environment where people can thrive with other leaders, and to that end I am the author of the upcoming book, Your Cultural Balance Sheet: Strategies for Creating Environments Where People Can Thrive. Christy's Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christypretzinger/ Website: https://wgcontent.com/ Do you enjoy our show? One of the easiest ways to help us out is to drop us a 5-star review on your platform of choice! https://www.newlevelwork.com/review For more information, please visit the New Level Work website. https://www.newlevelwork.com/category/podcast © 2019 - 2024 New Level Work

In our latest episode, Wendy welcomes back Julie Winkle Giulioni to discuss her updated book, "Help Them Grow or Watch Them Go: Career Conversations Organizations Need and Employees Still Want." Julie shares invaluable insights on the importance of career development, the impact of remote work, and how AI can complement but not replace human interaction in career growth. Discover practical tips for integrating meaningful career conversations into daily interactions, ensuring psychological safety, and supporting remote and hybrid teams.  Julie's expertise and actionable advice will help you elevate your management and leadership skills to new heights. Don't miss this opportunity to learn from one of the best in the field. Listen to the episode now and start making a positive impact on your team's career development! Meet Julie: Julie Winkle Giulioni is a champion for workplace growth and development and helps executives and leaders optimize talent and potential within their organizations. One of Inc. Magazine’s Top 100 speakers, she’s the author of "Promotions Are So Yesterday: Redefine Career Development. Help Employees Thrive" and the co-author of the international bestseller, "Help Them Grow or Watch Them Go: Career Conversations Organizations Need and Employees Still Want," translated into seven languages. Julie is a regular columnist for Training Industry Magazine and SmartBrief and contributes articles on leadership, career development, and workplace trends to numerous publications including Fast Company and The Economist. You can keep up with Julie through her blog and LinkedIn. Julie's Links: Website: https://www.juliewinklegiulioni.com/ LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliewinklegiulioni/ Facebook https://www.facebook.com/JulieWinkleGiulioni.Author/ YouTube https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYPG2YOq_4GTPUUrM1n4Q1w Do you enjoy our show? One of the easiest ways to help us out is to drop us a 5-star review on your platform of choice! https://www.newlevelwork.com/review For more information, please visit the New Level Work website. https://www.newlevelwork.com/category/podcast © 2019 - 2024 New Level Work

In our latest podcast episode, we explore the unique characteristics and expectations of Gen Z employees. Join host Wendy Hanson and special guest Hannah MacDonald-Dannecker as they delve into the strengths and challenges of this digital-native generation. Learn how to effectively manage and integrate Gen Z into your organization, foster collaboration across generations, and create an environment that supports growth and innovation. Don't miss out on these valuable insights! Meet Hannah: Hannah MacDonald-Dannecker is an author, public speaker, Sales and Marketing Manager, Partner at The Better Together Group of Companies. She has a passion for connecting. Connecting Generations, seen through her presentation on bridging the generational gap - how to hire and retain Gen Z. Connecting Employees and Employers, seen through her presentation on hiring by: integrity, intentionality and intensity. Connecting Knowledge, seen through her Podcast, Workish, where she regularly interviews people with interesting jobs across all industries to learn about what they do and how they got to where they are. Hannah's Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hannah-kay-macdonald/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/revolutionstaffing.ca/ Website: https://bettertogethergroup.com/ Do you enjoy our show? One of the easiest ways to help us out is to drop us a 5-star review on your platform of choice! https://www.newlevelwork.com/review For more information, please visit the New Level Work website. https://www.newlevelwork.com/category/podcast © 2019 - 2024 New Level Work

Are you ready to take your organization to the next level? In our latest podcast episode, we sit down with Emmy award-winning content creator and optimization consultant Derrick Mains. Derrick shares invaluable insights on improving organizational systems, the role of AI in business, and the importance of empathetic leadership. Discover how to create productive, happy workplaces and drive business success. Derrick's unique perspective and practical advice are sure to inspire and empower you to make meaningful changes in your organization. Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation. Listen to the full episode now and start transforming your organization today! Meet Derrick: Derrick Mains is Emmy Award-winning content creator, four-time author, operations podcaster with more than 160,000 monthly listeners, and optimization consultant renowned for his pioneering work in process engineering, design, and transformation. Mains work spans more than 20 years and 250 companies across nearly every industry, from early-stage companies on through the Fortune 10. Mains approach melds essentialism with a keen focus on human-centric system design, emphasizing the need for regular audits, reflection, and reinvestment to achieve optimization. Mains believes that all organizational systems share a fundamental purpose: transforming the input of resources into value, through outputs. He highlights how, without active management, systems degrade, leading to inefficiency and value and margin fade. His philosophy underscores the criticality of understanding the interconnectedness of systems and their natural progression towards entropy. Derrick's Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/derrickmains/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/theprocessfixer Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theprocessfixer/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/theprocessfixer Website: https://theprocessfixer.com/ Website: https://theprocessfixer.com/process-triage/ Do you enjoy our show? One of the easiest ways to help us out is to drop us a 5-star review on your platform of choice! https://www.newlevelwork.com/review For more information, please visit the New Level Work website. https://www.newlevelwork.com/category/podcast © 2019 - 2024 New Level Work