The episode is a conversation aanother article written by Jody Britten, a thought leader in education, that explores the importance of cultivating a workplace culture that empowers employees to solve problems and learn independently. Britten argues that traditional leadership styles, focused on providing solutions and directing employees, are outdated and hinder employee engagement. Instead, she advocates for a leadership approach that fosters self-direction and problem-solving skills by providing support and encouragement while allowing employees to take initiative and explore solutions on their own. The article outlines specific ways leaders can create this type of culture, including offering opportunities for learning, celebrating successes, and providing constructive feedback.

This episode is based on one of Jody's articles, this one discussing the importance of psychological safety in the workplace, arguing that it is essential for organizations to foster an environment where employees feel comfortable expressing their ideas and taking risks without fear of negative consequences. The article highlights the benefits of psychological safety, such as improved communication, increased learning, and better decision-making. It also includes practical advice on how leaders can create a psychologically safe environment, such as encouraging open communication, providing regular feedback, and valuing diverse perspectives.

This article, titled "The Importance of Playing Up," by Jody Britten, explores the concept of professional development and the significance of seeking opportunities to "play up" within one's career. "Playing up" refers to engaging in tasks and roles that challenge one's current skill level, fostering growth and advancement. Britten uses the analogy of baseball to illustrate this concept, highlighting how playing above one's current skill level can lead to faster development. The article then delves into the challenges experienced by skilled women leaders who feel stifled by their organizations' lack of opportunities to "play up," leading to stagnation and frustration. Britten argues that leaders should surround themselves with a team that can both "play up" to their strengths and encourage them to pursue external projects that allow for continued learning and growth. Ultimately, the article emphasizes the importance of creating an environment that enables individuals to challenge themselves professionally, fostering both individual and collective growth. Hear what we chat about on this deep dive...