In this HCI Webinar, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Wendi Swanson about the DNA of a leader. Wendi Swanson is an internationally recognized strategic leadership consultant, facilitator, and program developer, with a focus on unleashing the heartbeat of every organization—its people. Through authenticity and intentionality (with a little edge!)Wendi encourages a human-centered approach to growth, dials down on change systems, and redefines what it means to be a leader. Wendi gets to the heart of change by working directly with management and frontline to create growth at all levels of the organization. She has delivered workshops on talent acquisition and development, performance management, organizational and individual growth, and leadership for mid to large size companies across the globe. She has worked with companies such as Godiva Chocolatier, Best Buy, Yankee Candle, Ashley Furniture, David Yurman New York, La-Z-Boy Home Furnishings, and more.

Unlock the transformative power of learning in your organization with our latest video, "Unlocking the Power of Learning: A Guide to Continuous Improvement." Based on Dr. Jonathan H. Westover's insightful article, we delve into the concept of learning as a learned behavior that cultivates continuous improvement. Discover practical strategies for leaders to foster a culture of perpetual learning, from aligning learning goals with performance metrics to nurturing a growth mindset. We’ll also explore Netflix’s innovative approach to embedding learning in its DNA as a case study of success. Join us on this journey towards creating an adaptive, high-performing organization. Don't forget to like and share this video! #ContinuousImprovement #OrganizationalLearning #GrowthMindset #Leadership #Netflix #LearningCulture OUTLINE: 00:00:00 - Adapting to Thrive 00:00:46 - A Competitive Edge 00:01:36 - Practice Makes Perfect 00:02:18 - Strategies for Success 00:04:03 - Fueling the Learning Engine 00:05:48 - A Culture of Continuous Learning 00:07:25 - Outpacing the Competition

In this HCI Webinar, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Kelly Finnell about the impact of employee-ownership on morale and productivity. Kelly Finnell is a sought-after speaker and leading expert on Employee Stock Ownership Plans. He has spoken at more than 300 conferences and meetings throughout the U.S., London and Sydney, and he is a published author on using ESOPs in succession planning. A trusted resource to business owners and exit planners, Kelly is the author of The ESOP Coach: Using ESOPS in Ownership Succession Planning and the president of Memphis-based EFS ESOP Consultants. Kelly graduated magna cum laude from the University of Memphis and from its law school.

Abstract: This study examines the growing trend of freelancing among Generation Z (Gen Z) workers, with over 50% reporting some form of freelance work. While freelancing offers attractive benefits like flexibility, portfolio career development, and low barriers to entry, the research suggests it may not be the optimal long-term career strategy for Gen Z's professional development. The analysis reveals that exclusive freelancing can limit skill depth, income stability, advancement opportunities, and access to crucial mentorship during early career stages. A blended approach combining freelance work with traditional employment appears more beneficial for Gen Z workers, allowing them to leverage freelancing's advantages while gaining structured skill development and career progression through organizational roles. The study concludes with practical recommendations for both organizations and Gen Z workers to optimize this hybrid career model in the evolving workforce landscape.

In this podcast episode, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Kelly Finnell about the impact of employee-ownership on morale and productivity. Kelly Finnell is a sought-after speaker and leading expert on Employee Stock Ownership Plans. He has spoken at more than 300 conferences and meetings throughout the U.S., London and Sydney, and he is a published author on using ESOPs in succession planning. A trusted resource to business owners and exit planners, Kelly is the author of The ESOP Coach: Using ESOPS in Ownership Succession Planning and the president of Memphis-based EFS ESOP Consultants. Kelly graduated magna cum laude from the University of Memphis and from its law school. Check out all of the podcasts in the HCI Podcast Network (https://www.podbean.com/podcast-network/HCI) !

Unlock the secrets to effective team motivation in our latest video, "Motivation Mistakes: What Not to Do as a Leader!" Based on Dr. Jonathan H. Westover's insightful article, we dive into common pitfalls leaders face when trying to inspire their teams. Discover the critical importance of clear communication, the drawbacks of relying on rewards over intrinsic motivation, and the impact of fostering a collaborative environment. We'll explore evidence-backed strategies that focus on empowerment, autonomy, and recognizing effort, helping you create a thriving workplace culture. Join us for practical insights and real-world examples that will transform your leadership approach! Don’t forget to like and share this video to empower leaders everywhere! #leadershipskills #TeamMotivation #EmployeeEngagement #WorkplaceCulture OUTLINE: 00:00:00 - The Trap of Traditional Motivation 00:00:29 - The Peril of Poor Communication 00:01:45 - The Power of Intrinsic Motivation 00:02:54 - Cultivating Empowerment and Trust 00:03:53 - Cultivating Collaboration and Shared Purpose 00:05:01 - Recognizing Effort and Incremental Progress 00:06:20 - Igniting Intrinsic Motivation

This article explores the phenomenon of "innovation theater," whereby companies prioritize the appearance of innovation over genuine creative investments. Despite executive rhetoric about disruption and new product development, many organizations fail to properly resource or incentivize true innovation, instead opting for visible but shallow initiatives that generate positive PR without challenging the status quo. The author examines how misaligned incentives, short-term thinking, and risk aversion collectively undermine authentic innovation efforts across industries from technology to pharmaceuticals, while proposing that companies can overcome these barriers by restructuring compensation toward long-term outcomes, empowering autonomous innovation teams, and fostering cultures that view failure as valuable learning rather than punishable error.  

Unlock the secrets behind effective management in our latest video, "Why Managers Struggle: Unpacking the Real Reasons." Drawing from Dr. Jonathan H. Westover's insightful article, we delve into why many managers fail to lead their teams successfully. Discover the critical factors, such as lack of formal training, low self-awareness, and insufficient organizational support that contribute to this widespread issue. We’ll also highlight Hilton Hotels' transformative approach to leadership development—showcasing how focused training can dramatically improve managerial effectiveness and employee satisfaction. Join us for a compelling discussion that can reshape your understanding of management dynamics. Don't forget to like and share this video! #Management #LeadershipDevelopment #CoachingCulture #EmployeeEngagement #HiltonHotels #SelfAwareness #Training OUTLINE: 00:00:00 - The Plight of the Poorly Managed 00:01:15 - The Lack of Formal Management Training 00:02:25 - Self-Awareness as a Cornerstone of Effective Leadership 00:03:37 - Cultivating a Coaching Mindset