https://40pb.com
40 Percent Better
https://40pb.com]]>enManagement2024https://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/fcdcaf0188c759a22b022e56f2dfaca4.jpghttps://40pb.comFri, 10 Jul 2026 10:45:03 +0000Bill40 Percent Betterhello@40pb.comEvery week, we invite 1 expert on employee engagement and deep-dive into unlocking previously unheard of performance levels in teams and leaders. 40 Percent Better https://40pb.com
40 Percent Better
https://40pb.com]]>falsetrueepisodichttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/lead-without-a-title-i-natalie-renee-parker--72866065https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72866065Fri, 17 Jul 2026 10:30:02 +0000BillLeadership is not about a title. It is about seeing a problem, taking initiative, and helping people succeed. In this episode of the 40% Better Podcast, Bill Lennan sits down with Natalie Renee Parker, Founder | Organizational Development | Talent...3435falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/scaling-teams-with-great-leadership-i-ben-van-every--72628646https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72628646Fri, 10 Jul 2026 10:30:02 +0000BillWhat does it actually take to get real business value from AI? Jimi Li, CTO at ALM Media, has spent the last three years running AI initiatives inside a company that just went through a successful private equity exit — and he's got the framework to...3510falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/stop-managing-start-leading-i-jonathan-domsky--72531832https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72531832Fri, 03 Jul 2026 10:30:02 +0000Bill40 Percent Better Podcast with Bill Lennan featuring Jonathan Domsky, Founder and Coach at Untangled Coaching. In this episode, Jonathan shares his journey from accidental entrepreneur to leadership coach and explains how personal growth,...2756falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/becoming-a-corporate-gargoyle-i-dominic-vogel--72531578https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72531578Fri, 26 Jun 2026 10:30:07 +0000Bill40 Percent Better Podcast with Bill Lennan featuring Dominic Vogel, President of Vogel Cyber Leadership & Coaching. In this episode, Dominic shares his journey from cybersecurity leadership to entrepreneurship, the lessons he learned from burnout,...2764falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-future-of-construction-ai-i-victor-augusteo--72471001https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72471001Fri, 19 Jun 2026 10:30:02 +0000BillIn this episode of 40 Percent Better, Bill Lennan sits down with Victor Augusteo, CTO @ Boon, for a wide-ranging conversation on leadership, decision-making, artificial intelligence, construction technology, and the mental models that shape success....4580falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/building-trust-through-leadership-i-dave-bair--72470699https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72470699Fri, 12 Jun 2026 10:30:03 +0000BillIn this episode of 40 Percent Better, Bill Lennan sits down with Dave Bair, Operations Executive: Certified Change Management Professional; Collaborative Design & NLP Practitioner, to explore the leadership principles that help teams thrive in...1996falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/leadership-ai-and-cybersecurity-i-craig-taylor--72181361https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72181361Fri, 05 Jun 2026 10:30:02 +0000BillIn this episode of 40 Percent Better, Bill Lennan sits down with Craig Taylor, CEO and Co-Founder of CyberHoot, to talk about leadership, cybersecurity, communication, and the power of positive reinforcement in workplace training. Craig shares his...2883falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/leadership-through-the-power-leadership-through-the-power-of-story-i-gavin-mcmahonof-story-i-gavin-mcmahon--72109273https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72109273Fri, 29 May 2026 10:30:02 +0000BillIn this episode of 40 Percent Better, Bill Lennan sits down with Gavin McMahon, CEO of fassforward and author of Story Business, for a fascinating conversation about leadership, storytelling, team alignment, and the power of creating shared context....2778falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/friction-free-leadership-that-works-i-jimmy-burroughes--72094531https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72094531Fri, 22 May 2026 10:30:02 +0000BillIn this episode of 40 Percent Better, Bill Lennan sits down with Jimmy Burroughes, Founder of Aidencoach.io, to explore what real leadership looks like beyond job titles and hierarchy. The conversation dives deep into practical leadership lessons...2456falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/why-human-leadership-still-wins-in-the-age-of-ai-i-joshua-gould--72003472https://api.spreaker.com/episode/72003472Fri, 15 May 2026 15:00:03 +0000BillWelcome to 40 Percent Better with Bill Lennan featuring Joshua Gould, Group CEO @ thebigword In this episode, Bill Lennan and Joshua Gould dive into leadership, AI, business growth, technology transformation, and what it really takes to build...3124falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/leadership-power-and-real-growth-at-work-i-charley-wedeen-zittle--71812608https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71812608Fri, 08 May 2026 15:00:02 +0000BillIn this episode of 40 Percent Better, Bill Lennan sits down with Charley Wedeen-Zittle, Sr. Value Engineer at Box, for a raw and thoughtful conversation about leadership, power dynamics, and what actually makes people thrive at work. Charley shares...3966falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/leadership-without-a-title-in-tech-i-juan-boyce--71812491https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71812491Fri, 01 May 2026 15:00:03 +0000BillStep inside a real-world tech leadership journey in this episode of 40 Percent Better with Bill Lennan and guest Juan Boyce, Chief Technology Officer, Principal Software Engineer at Boyce Tech. Juan shares how he got started in software engineering at...2315falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/mistakes-psychological-safety-and-leadership-clarity-rob-zuber--71411172
In this episode, we sit down with Rob Zuber to explore his candid journey into leadership—from the trial by fire of the startup world to managing complexity in scaling organizations. This conversation is a masterclass in how to build a high-performing culture by putting people first.

Rob dives deep into the non-negotiables of modern leadership, emphasizing why psychological safety isn't just a buzzword, but the foundation for true innovation and honest feedback. We discuss the critical role of clarity in leadership, how to cultivate intrinsic motivation in your team, and the power of genuinely learning from mistakes instead of fearing them.

If you are a founder, manager, or an aspiring leader interested in team building, achieving a flow state in your work, and maintaining organizational identity while scaling, this episode is essential listening.

🔥 Key Takeaways You'll Get from Rob:
Why embracing your limitations is the first step to becoming a better leader.
The essential ingredients for creating psychological safety that drives innovation.
How intrinsic motivation fuels performance more than external incentives.
Balancing structure and flexibility as your organization grows.
The secret to maintaining clarity and organizational identity during hyper-growth.
🎤 Sound Bites from the Episode:
"I realized that I wasn't a great team player."
"It's very much up or out."
"They found their tribe and that's awesome."
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71411172Fri, 17 Apr 2026 15:24:25 +0000BillWelcome to the 40% Better podcast with your host, Bill Lennan! In this episode, we sit down with Rob Zuber to explore his candid journey into leadership—from the trial by fire of the startup world to managing complexity in scaling organizations. This...
In this episode, we sit down with Rob Zuber to explore his candid journey into leadership—from the trial by fire of the startup world to managing complexity in scaling organizations. This conversation is a masterclass in how to build a high-performing culture by putting people first.

Rob dives deep into the non-negotiables of modern leadership, emphasizing why psychological safety isn't just a buzzword, but the foundation for true innovation and honest feedback. We discuss the critical role of clarity in leadership, how to cultivate intrinsic motivation in your team, and the power of genuinely learning from mistakes instead of fearing them.

If you are a founder, manager, or an aspiring leader interested in team building, achieving a flow state in your work, and maintaining organizational identity while scaling, this episode is essential listening.

🔥 Key Takeaways You'll Get from Rob:
Why embracing your limitations is the first step to becoming a better leader.
The essential ingredients for creating psychological safety that drives innovation.
How intrinsic motivation fuels performance more than external incentives.
Balancing structure and flexibility as your organization grows.
The secret to maintaining clarity and organizational identity during hyper-growth.
🎤 Sound Bites from the Episode:
"I realized that I wasn't a great team player."
"It's very much up or out."
"They found their tribe and that's awesome."
]]>3923falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-ai-doesn-t-replace-your-thinking-it-amplifies-it-jimi-li--71410834In this episode, Jimi breaks down the three categories of AI value every tech leader needs to understand — productivity, product enhancement, and new revenue streams — and explains why productivity is the most talked-about and the most dangerous if you don't have the right system to capture the gains. He also shares how cross-functional "fusion teams" are collapsing the feedback loop between engineering and the business, why AI fluency is becoming the dividing line between those who thrive and those who get left behind, and what the inflection point for mass adoption actually looks like.
Key takeaways:
AI value falls into three categories: productivity gains, embedding AI into core products, and new product or revenue creation — each requires a different strategy and measurement approach
Productivity savings from AI are real but easily lost if your organisation isn't structured to capture them
Cross-functional fusion teams that include sales, finance, product, and engineering dramatically accelerate the feedback loop and motivate developers by connecting their work to real outcomes
AI fluency — knowing what's good, what's wrong, and how to direct the output — is what separates high performers from the rest
The inflection point for mass AI adoption is closer than most think, probably within one to two years, as friction around prompting and context drops
Leaders should focus on re-imagining workflows and tasks, not just learning tools
AI amplifies your thinking — it doesn't replace your critical judgment, and that judgment is your core value
Connect with Jimi Li:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimi-li/
If this episode got you thinking differently about AI and leadership, hit subscribe and leave us a review — it helps more leaders find the show.

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/ 
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347 
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership

#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems. 
#technologyleadership #productmanagement #engineeringleadership #leadershipdevelopment #careergrowth #podcast
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71410834Fri, 17 Apr 2026 15:07:34 +0000BillWhat does it actually take to get real business value from AI? Jimi Li, CTO at ALM Media, has spent the last three years running AI initiatives inside a company that just went through a successful private equity exit — and he's got the framework to...In this episode, Jimi breaks down the three categories of AI value every tech leader needs to understand — productivity, product enhancement, and new revenue streams — and explains why productivity is the most talked-about and the most dangerous if you don't have the right system to capture the gains. He also shares how cross-functional "fusion teams" are collapsing the feedback loop between engineering and the business, why AI fluency is becoming the dividing line between those who thrive and those who get left behind, and what the inflection point for mass adoption actually looks like.
Key takeaways:
AI value falls into three categories: productivity gains, embedding AI into core products, and new product or revenue creation — each requires a different strategy and measurement approach
Productivity savings from AI are real but easily lost if your organisation isn't structured to capture them
Cross-functional fusion teams that include sales, finance, product, and engineering dramatically accelerate the feedback loop and motivate developers by connecting their work to real outcomes
AI fluency — knowing what's good, what's wrong, and how to direct the output — is what separates high performers from the rest
The inflection point for mass AI adoption is closer than most think, probably within one to two years, as friction around prompting and context drops
Leaders should focus on re-imagining workflows and tasks, not just learning tools
AI amplifies your thinking — it doesn't replace your critical judgment, and that judgment is your core value
Connect with Jimi Li:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jimi-li/
If this episode got you thinking differently about AI and leadership, hit subscribe and leave us a review — it helps more leaders find the show.

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/ 
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347 
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership

#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems. 
#technologyleadership #productmanagement #engineeringleadership #leadershipdevelopment #careergrowth #podcast
]]>2777falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/jiu-jitsu-changed-my-life-and-leadership-jeremy-hass--71177034
Jeremy dives into the importance of resilience, risk-taking, and personal growth, explaining how embracing challenges can lead to long-term success in both life and business. He also discusses how Brazilian Jiu Jitsu transformed his mindset, teaching discipline, adaptability, and emotional resilience.
The conversation explores how leaders can build strong teams, communicate effectively, and develop future leaders within their organizations. Jeremy also shares practical advice for navigating failure, pursuing meaningful work, and surrounding yourself with the right people.

What you’ll learn in this episode:
Why resilience is essential for leadership and business success
How Brazilian Jiu Jitsu shapes mindset and discipline
The importance of risk-taking in personal and professional growth
How to build and mentor future leaders
Why effective communication is critical in leadership roles
How to overcome failure and learn from setbacks
The value of emotional intelligence in leadership
Why chasing passion leads to long-term fulfillment
Key insights:
“I’d rather try and fail than not try at all.”
“Surrounding yourself with the right people is key.”
“Jiu Jitsu saved my life.”
“My job is to build and enable the person below me.”
“Chase what makes you happy.”
This episode is perfect for leaders, founders, entrepreneurs, and anyone looking to grow personally and professionally through resilience, discipline, and purpose.
Timestamps:
00:00 The Foundations of Leadership
02:52 Early Career Experiences and Responsibilities
05:53 Embracing Challenges and Risk-Taking
09:00 Resilience and Overcoming Failure
12:07 The Role of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in Personal Growth
15:08 Leadership Lessons from Martial Arts
18:08 Current Work and Helping Startups
21:13 Operational Challenges in Business
23:52 Building Future Leaders
26:57 Effective Communication in Leadership
30:12 Personal Projects and Future Aspirations
33:11 Final Thoughts and Words of Wisdom
Subscribe for more conversations on leadership, growth, and performance.
#Leadership #Resilience #PersonalGrowth #Entrepreneurship #Startups #EmotionalIntelligence #RiskTaking #Mindset #BusinessGrowth #40PercentBetter

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/ 
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347 
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership

#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems. 
#technologyleadership #productmanagement #engineeringleadership #leadershipdevelopment #careergrowth #podcast
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71177034Fri, 10 Apr 2026 12:00:03 +0000BillIn this episode of the 40% Better Podcast, Jeremy Hass shares powerful insights from his leadership journey, shaped by his experiences in the military, startups, and Brazilian Jiu Jitsu. Jeremy dives into the importance of resilience, risk-taking,...
Jeremy dives into the importance of resilience, risk-taking, and personal growth, explaining how embracing challenges can lead to long-term success in both life and business. He also discusses how Brazilian Jiu Jitsu transformed his mindset, teaching discipline, adaptability, and emotional resilience.
The conversation explores how leaders can build strong teams, communicate effectively, and develop future leaders within their organizations. Jeremy also shares practical advice for navigating failure, pursuing meaningful work, and surrounding yourself with the right people.

What you’ll learn in this episode:
Why resilience is essential for leadership and business success
How Brazilian Jiu Jitsu shapes mindset and discipline
The importance of risk-taking in personal and professional growth
How to build and mentor future leaders
Why effective communication is critical in leadership roles
How to overcome failure and learn from setbacks
The value of emotional intelligence in leadership
Why chasing passion leads to long-term fulfillment
Key insights:
“I’d rather try and fail than not try at all.”
“Surrounding yourself with the right people is key.”
“Jiu Jitsu saved my life.”
“My job is to build and enable the person below me.”
“Chase what makes you happy.”
This episode is perfect for leaders, founders, entrepreneurs, and anyone looking to grow personally and professionally through resilience, discipline, and purpose.
Timestamps:
00:00 The Foundations of Leadership
02:52 Early Career Experiences and Responsibilities
05:53 Embracing Challenges and Risk-Taking
09:00 Resilience and Overcoming Failure
12:07 The Role of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu in Personal Growth
15:08 Leadership Lessons from Martial Arts
18:08 Current Work and Helping Startups
21:13 Operational Challenges in Business
23:52 Building Future Leaders
26:57 Effective Communication in Leadership
30:12 Personal Projects and Future Aspirations
33:11 Final Thoughts and Words of Wisdom
Subscribe for more conversations on leadership, growth, and performance.
#Leadership #Resilience #PersonalGrowth #Entrepreneurship #Startups #EmotionalIntelligence #RiskTaking #Mindset #BusinessGrowth #40PercentBetter

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/ 
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347 
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership

#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems. 
#technologyleadership #productmanagement #engineeringleadership #leadershipdevelopment #careergrowth #podcast
]]>2443falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-risk-mindset-that-changes-everything-tamara-laine--71061614
Tamara breaks down how taking risks, embracing failure, and building resilience shaped her career and leadership style. She explains why confidence is built through repetition, how communication is a learned skill, and why breaking big goals into micro tasks is essential for success.
The conversation also explores leadership in startups, building effective systems, and how great leaders empower their teams while staying adaptable. Tamara shares practical insights on overcoming fear, developing strong communication skills, and creating a mindset that turns challenges into opportunities.

What you’ll learn in this episode:
How an unconventional career path can lead to strong leadership
Why repetition and practice build confidence and communication skills
The importance of breaking goals into small, actionable steps
How to overcome fear and social anxiety through systems
Why risk-taking is essential for personal and professional growth
How to build and lead high-performing teams in startups
The role of systems and structure in execution and productivity
Why failure is a critical part of long-term success
Key insights:
“I’d rather try and fail than not try at all.”
“You have to put the reps in.”
“Failure is a step toward the destination.”
“Surround yourself with the right people.”
“Chase what makes you happy.”
This episode is perfect for founders, leaders, and professionals looking to grow through resilience, improve communication, and build a mindset that embraces risk and opportunity.
Subscribe for more conversations on leadership, growth, and performance.
#Leadership #PersonalGrowth #Entrepreneurship #Startups #Mindset #Resilience #CommunicationSkills #CareerGrowth #BusinessGrowth #40PercentBetter

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/ 
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347 
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership

#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems. 
#technologyleadership #productmanagement #engineeringleadership #leadershipdevelopment #careergrowth #podcast
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71061614Fri, 03 Apr 2026 12:00:02 +0000BillIn this episode of the 40% Better Podcast, Tamara Laine shares her unconventional leadership journey from teaching dance at a young age to working in documentaries, journalism, and eventually leading in the tech world. Tamara breaks down how taking...
Tamara breaks down how taking risks, embracing failure, and building resilience shaped her career and leadership style. She explains why confidence is built through repetition, how communication is a learned skill, and why breaking big goals into micro tasks is essential for success.
The conversation also explores leadership in startups, building effective systems, and how great leaders empower their teams while staying adaptable. Tamara shares practical insights on overcoming fear, developing strong communication skills, and creating a mindset that turns challenges into opportunities.

What you’ll learn in this episode:
How an unconventional career path can lead to strong leadership
Why repetition and practice build confidence and communication skills
The importance of breaking goals into small, actionable steps
How to overcome fear and social anxiety through systems
Why risk-taking is essential for personal and professional growth
How to build and lead high-performing teams in startups
The role of systems and structure in execution and productivity
Why failure is a critical part of long-term success
Key insights:
“I’d rather try and fail than not try at all.”
“You have to put the reps in.”
“Failure is a step toward the destination.”
“Surround yourself with the right people.”
“Chase what makes you happy.”
This episode is perfect for founders, leaders, and professionals looking to grow through resilience, improve communication, and build a mindset that embraces risk and opportunity.
Subscribe for more conversations on leadership, growth, and performance.
#Leadership #PersonalGrowth #Entrepreneurship #Startups #Mindset #Resilience #CommunicationSkills #CareerGrowth #BusinessGrowth #40PercentBetter

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/ 
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347 
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership

#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems. 
#technologyleadership #productmanagement #engineeringleadership #leadershipdevelopment #careergrowth #podcast
]]>2519falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-art-of-managing-diverse-personalities-oscar-hedaya--70509005

Leaders who come from under-resourced backgrounds often develop stronger creative problem-solving instincts early on

Managing larger teams means spending significant time on interpersonal issues, not just the work itself

Bringing clashing team members together socially is often the most effective way to defuse conflict

Getting promoted doesn't mean doing more of the same job; the role fundamentally changes

Quiet, high-performing team members need time and consistent encouragement before they'll speak up in group settings, but it's worth the investment

Cross-functional teams (hardware, firmware, software, design) each speak a different language; a good leader bridges that gap

When something goes wrong, blame-minimising and accountability-taking from the top changes the entire team culture

Employee happiness is a business metric: appreciated employees go beyond their job description, stay longer, and produce better work

Small perks (better coffee, free lunch, a nearby hotel room for late nights) create disproportionate goodwill and loyalty

Upgrading team equipment is one of the highest-ROI investments a leader can make

Connect with Oscar Hedaya: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/oscar-hedaya-b1a76b3/ Website: https://www.thespacesafe.com If you found this episode useful, hit subscribe and leave a review. It really helps the show reach more leaders who want to build better teams.
I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/ 
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347 
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership

#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems. 
#technologyleadership #productmanagement #engineeringleadership #leadershipdevelopment #careergrowth #podcast]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70509005Fri, 06 Mar 2026 16:39:54 +0000BillSerial entrepreneur Oscar Hedaya, founder of SPACE and The Space Safe, joins Bill Lennan on the 40% Better podcast for a wide-ranging conversation on what real leadership looks like across industries. Oscar's career has taken him from visual...

Leaders who come from under-resourced backgrounds often develop stronger creative problem-solving instincts early on

Managing larger teams means spending significant time on interpersonal issues, not just the work itself

Bringing clashing team members together socially is often the most effective way to defuse conflict

Getting promoted doesn't mean doing more of the same job; the role fundamentally changes

Quiet, high-performing team members need time and consistent encouragement before they'll speak up in group settings, but it's worth the investment

Cross-functional teams (hardware, firmware, software, design) each speak a different language; a good leader bridges that gap

When something goes wrong, blame-minimising and accountability-taking from the top changes the entire team culture

Employee happiness is a business metric: appreciated employees go beyond their job description, stay longer, and produce better work

Small perks (better coffee, free lunch, a nearby hotel room for late nights) create disproportionate goodwill and loyalty

Upgrading team equipment is one of the highest-ROI investments a leader can make

Connect with Oscar Hedaya: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/oscar-hedaya-b1a76b3/ Website: https://www.thespacesafe.com If you found this episode useful, hit subscribe and leave a review. It really helps the show reach more leaders who want to build better teams.
I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/ 
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347 
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership

#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn...]]>3856falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/why-belonging-is-a-performance-metric-not-a-feeling-with-andrea-d-carter--70177128Most organizations measure engagement. But engagement only tells you who's busy, not who's going to stay. Andrea D. Carter, organizational scientist and creator of the Belonging First methodology, joins the 40% Better podcast to share why belonging is measurable performance infrastructure and what technical leaders need to build it on purpose. Andrea is CEO and Founder of Andrea Carter Consulting and creator of the Belonging First Methodology.
Andrea developed the first scientifically validated framework for measuring workplace belonging, starting with a two-year study across 3,500+ employees in Canada's mining sector. The findings were clear: belonging gaps aren't primarily a diversity issue, they're a positional power issue. And when those gaps close, organizations see a 24% reduction in belonging gaps, a 28% increase in performance, an 18% increase in engagement, and a 16% reduction in turnover.
In this conversation, Andrea walks through the five conditions that must be present for belonging to exist: comfort, connection, contribution, psychological safety, and well-being. She translates each into practical, behavioral actions leaders can take immediately, from how to open a meeting to how to rotate facilitation to how to name the impact of someone's work, not just the task they completed. Bill and Andrea also dig into why brilliant technical work dies in silos when connection is low, why resilience training alone sets people up to fail, and how belonging is fundamentally interdependent, not something one person figures out alone.

Key Takeaways
Belonging is not a feeling. It is measurable performance infrastructure with direct impact on speed, quality, retention, and engagement.
The five indicators of belonging are comfort, connection, contribution, psychological safety, and well-being. Each one has specific behaviors attached to it that leaders can implement immediately.
Comfort is about cognitive load management. When roles, expectations, and decision processes are predictable, people's brains stop scanning for threats and free up capacity for complex problem-solving.
Connection is your information transfer protocol. When trust is high and information flows without verification overhead, cross-functional collaboration accelerates and quality goes up.
Contribution requires making impact visible, not just task completion. Acknowledge specifically how someone's work moved things forward and create visibility for your B and C contributors, not just your A players.
Psychological safety is your early warning system. It only functions well when comfort is already present. Without it, people silence themselves before errors reach a point where they're catastrophic to fix.
Well-being is infrastructure, not a perk. Resilience is not a solo sport. Organizations that treat it as an individual responsibility burn out their best people first.
80% of managers never receive training on how to lead people. The performance gaps this creates are measurable and preventable.
Belonging is interdependent. It requires both parties to actively give and receive the five conditions. When it's 100% on one person to figure out, that's a fitting-in environment, and it will eventually break people.

Connect with Andrea D. Carter: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreadcarter/ Website: https://belongingfirst.com/ Company: Andrea Carter Consulting
If this episode made you think differently about your team, subscribe to the 40% Better podcast for more conversations at the intersection of leadership and technology. Share it with a leader who's still measuring engagement and wondering why people keep leaving.

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/ 
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347 
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership

#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems. 
#technologyleadership #productmanagement #engineeringleadership #leadershipdevelopment #careergrowth #podcast
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70177128Fri, 20 Feb 2026 16:00:02 +0000BillMost organizations measure engagement. But engagement only tells you who's busy, not who's going to stay. Andrea D. Carter, organizational scientist and creator of the Belonging First methodology, joins the 40% Better podcast to share why belonging is...Most organizations measure engagement. But engagement only tells you who's busy, not who's going to stay. Andrea D. Carter, organizational scientist and creator of the Belonging First methodology, joins the 40% Better podcast to share why belonging is measurable performance infrastructure and what technical leaders need to build it on purpose. Andrea is CEO and Founder of Andrea Carter Consulting and creator of the Belonging First Methodology.
Andrea developed the first scientifically validated framework for measuring workplace belonging, starting with a two-year study across 3,500+ employees in Canada's mining sector. The findings were clear: belonging gaps aren't primarily a diversity issue, they're a positional power issue. And when those gaps close, organizations see a 24% reduction in belonging gaps, a 28% increase in performance, an 18% increase in engagement, and a 16% reduction in turnover.
In this conversation, Andrea walks through the five conditions that must be present for belonging to exist: comfort, connection, contribution, psychological safety, and well-being. She translates each into practical, behavioral actions leaders can take immediately, from how to open a meeting to how to rotate facilitation to how to name the impact of someone's work, not just the task they completed. Bill and Andrea also dig into why brilliant technical work dies in silos when connection is low, why resilience training alone sets people up to fail, and how belonging is fundamentally interdependent, not something one person figures out alone.

Key Takeaways
Belonging is not a feeling. It is measurable performance infrastructure with direct impact on speed, quality, retention, and engagement.
The five indicators of belonging are comfort, connection, contribution, psychological safety, and well-being. Each one has specific behaviors attached to it that leaders can implement immediately.
Comfort is about cognitive load management. When roles, expectations, and decision processes are predictable, people's brains stop scanning for threats and free up capacity for complex problem-solving.
Connection is your information transfer protocol. When trust is high and information flows without verification overhead, cross-functional collaboration accelerates and quality goes up.
Contribution requires making impact visible, not just task completion. Acknowledge specifically how someone's work moved things forward and create visibility for your B and C contributors, not just your A players.
Psychological safety is your early warning system. It only functions well when comfort is already present. Without it, people silence themselves before errors reach a point where they're catastrophic to fix.
Well-being is infrastructure, not a perk. Resilience is not a solo sport. Organizations that treat it as an individual responsibility burn out their best people first.
80% of managers never receive training on how to lead people. The performance gaps this creates are measurable and preventable.
Belonging is interdependent. It requires both parties to actively give and receive the five conditions. When it's 100% on one person to figure out, that's a fitting-in environment, and it will eventually break people.

Connect with Andrea D. Carter: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreadcarter/ Website: https://belongingfirst.com/ Company: Andrea Carter Consulting
If this episode made you think differently about your team, subscribe to the 40% Better podcast for more conversations at the intersection of leadership and technology. Share it with a leader who's still measuring engagement and wondering why people keep leaving.

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/ 4319falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/why-employee-loyalty-has-nothing-to-do-with-salary-ian-watts--70097422Ian shares why the best leaders work themselves out of a job by making themselves unnecessary, why vulnerability combined with security creates magnetic leadership people want to follow, and how systematic support during critical life moments builds loyalty that salary alone can never buy. Discover why doing hard things literally grows your brain's capacity for more challenges, how treating people as individuals rather than production machines transforms retention, and why the secret to employee engagement isn't complicated—it's just caring about their personhood, not just their productivity.

Key Topics:
The ACTS Method: Aspirations, Calling, Transformation, and Support as the framework for employee retention
Why companies that invest 3% of annual revenue into their people dramatically outperform competitors
How creating deep reciprocity through systematic care during life moments (college, home purchases, loss) builds unshakeable loyalty
Why vulnerability and security in leadership creates cultures where people don't want to leave
The cost of treating people like widgets: $50,000+ per hire and 1-4x salary to replace employees
Why most HR departments lack capacity to execute retention strategies even when they have the desire
How doing hard things (cold showers, polar plunges) trains your mid anterior cingulate cortex to embrace discomfort
Why knowing when to be tough versus tender separates good managers from transformational leaders
The power of helping employees achieve personal goals unrelated to their job performance
Why modeling uncomfortable behavior yourself is the only way to credibly ask your team to grow
Connect with Ian Watts
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ianmwatts/
Website: https://employeesuccesscompany.com/
Book a complimentary strategy session to discuss employee engagement, performance, and retention challenges
Subscribe for conversations with leaders who understand that your greatest competitive advantage isn't technology or strategy—it's how well you invest in the humans who make everything else possible.

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/ 
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347 
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership

#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems. 
#technologyleadership #productmanagement #engineeringleadership #leadershipdevelopment #careergrowth #podcast
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70097422Tue, 17 Feb 2026 16:00:02 +0000BillIn two decades of coaching leaders across startups to multi-billion dollar corporations, Ian Watts discovered that companies lose talented people not because of compensation, but because they treat employees like replaceable widgets instead of human...Ian shares why the best leaders work themselves out of a job by making themselves unnecessary, why vulnerability combined with security creates magnetic leadership people want to follow, and how systematic support during critical life moments builds loyalty that salary alone can never buy. Discover why doing hard things literally grows your brain's capacity for more challenges, how treating people as individuals rather than production machines transforms retention, and why the secret to employee engagement isn't complicated—it's just caring about their personhood, not just their productivity.

Key Topics:
The ACTS Method: Aspirations, Calling, Transformation, and Support as the framework for employee retention
Why companies that invest 3% of annual revenue into their people dramatically outperform competitors
How creating deep reciprocity through systematic care during life moments (college, home purchases, loss) builds unshakeable loyalty
Why vulnerability and security in leadership creates cultures where people don't want to leave
The cost of treating people like widgets: $50,000+ per hire and 1-4x salary to replace employees
Why most HR departments lack capacity to execute retention strategies even when they have the desire
How doing hard things (cold showers, polar plunges) trains your mid anterior cingulate cortex to embrace discomfort
Why knowing when to be tough versus tender separates good managers from transformational leaders
The power of helping employees achieve personal goals unrelated to their job performance
Why modeling uncomfortable behavior yourself is the only way to credibly ask your team to grow
Connect with Ian Watts
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ianmwatts/
Website: https://employeesuccesscompany.com/
Book a complimentary strategy session to discuss employee engagement, performance, and retention challenges
Subscribe for conversations with leaders who understand that your greatest competitive advantage isn't technology or strategy—it's how well you invest in the humans who make everything else possible.

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/ 
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347 
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership

#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a...]]>3101falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/se1e94-from-dial-up-belarus-to-350-engineers-andrei-yurkevich--70014416In 2002, a 25-year-old Andrei Yurkevich started a software outstaffing business in Belarus with internet speeds under 100 kilobits per second for the entire country—slower than a dial-up modem. Twenty-two years later, he's President and CTO of Altoros with 350+ engineers across 25 countries, plus multiple spin-off companies including Protofire, a Web3-focused venture. Andrei shares why he spent two years answering seven questions that should have taken two hours, why distribution must always come before delivery, and how giving everyone equity ownership creates the type of organization where people leave, gain experience, and choose to return.
Discover why Andrei's biggest hiring mistake was starting initiatives without a "single thread leader," why he motivates leaders with revenue shares but learned that scaling teams before having solid sales pipelines is fatal, and how following the Scaling Up methodology's "7 Strata" document became their most powerful alignment tool. Learn why Altoros operates as a venture studio with each business having separate leadership, cap tables, and P&Ls, why they explored but ultimately didn't fully implement DAO principles, and how their back-office shared services model enables spin-offs to focus purely on delivery and customer acquisition while finance, legal, marketing, and HR serve everyone.
Key Topics:
- Starting a software business in 2002 Belarus with dial-up internet speeds and no venture capital
- The "7 Strata" strategy: why answering seven questions took two years instead of two hours
- Distribution first, delivery second: why you can't scale teams without solid sales pipelines
- Why single thread leaders are non-negotiable before starting any new initiative
- Building a venture studio: separate P&Ls, cap tables, and equity ownership for every business unit
- How giving everyone shareholder stakes (from 0.5% to 25%) creates retention and commitment
- Why people leave, gain experience elsewhere, and choose to return years later
- The pivot from serving startups at $50/hour to Fortune 500 clients at $150-200/hour
- Exploring DAO principles in Web3: what worked, what didn't, and the governance challenges
- Managing 300+ people across 25 countries with no physical offices post-COVID
- Why Scaling Up by Vern Harnish became their foundational methodology across all businesses
- Selling imaginary products first: never build before you verify someone will buy it
Connect with Andrei Yurkevich:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreiyurkevich/
Title: President and CTO
Companies: Altoros (https://www.altoroslabs.com/) | Protofire (Co-Founder, Web3/Blockchain)
Subscribe for conversations with technology leaders who've built organizations from Soviet-era constraints to global venture studios, and understand that trust, autonomy, and shared ownership create the conditions where talent chooses to return.
I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/ 
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347 
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership

#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems. 
#technologyleadership #productmanagement #engineeringleadership #leadershipdevelopment #careergrowth #podcast


This episode includes AI-generated content.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/70014416Fri, 13 Feb 2026 16:00:03 +0000trueBillIn 2002, a 25-year-old Andrei Yurkevich started a software outstaffing business in Belarus with internet speeds under 100 kilobits per second for the entire country—slower than a dial-up modem. Twenty-two years later, he's President and CTO of Altoros...In 2002, a 25-year-old Andrei Yurkevich started a software outstaffing business in Belarus with internet speeds under 100 kilobits per second for the entire country—slower than a dial-up modem. Twenty-two years later, he's President and CTO of Altoros with 350+ engineers across 25 countries, plus multiple spin-off companies including Protofire, a Web3-focused venture. Andrei shares why he spent two years answering seven questions that should have taken two hours, why distribution must always come before delivery, and how giving everyone equity ownership creates the type of organization where people leave, gain experience, and choose to return.
Discover why Andrei's biggest hiring mistake was starting initiatives without a "single thread leader," why he motivates leaders with revenue shares but learned that scaling teams before having solid sales pipelines is fatal, and how following the Scaling Up methodology's "7 Strata" document became their most powerful alignment tool. Learn why Altoros operates as a venture studio with each business having separate leadership, cap tables, and P&Ls, why they explored but ultimately didn't fully implement DAO principles, and how their back-office shared services model enables spin-offs to focus purely on delivery and customer acquisition while finance, legal, marketing, and HR serve everyone.
Key Topics:
- Starting a software business in 2002 Belarus with dial-up internet speeds and no venture capital
- The "7 Strata" strategy: why answering seven questions took two years instead of two hours
- Distribution first, delivery second: why you can't scale teams without solid sales pipelines
- Why single thread leaders are non-negotiable before starting any new initiative
- Building a venture studio: separate P&Ls, cap tables, and equity ownership for every business unit
- How giving everyone shareholder stakes (from 0.5% to 25%) creates retention and commitment
- Why people leave, gain experience elsewhere, and choose to return years later
- The pivot from serving startups at $50/hour to Fortune 500 clients at $150-200/hour
- Exploring DAO principles in Web3: what worked, what didn't, and the governance challenges
- Managing 300+ people across 25 countries with no physical offices post-COVID
- Why Scaling Up by Vern Harnish became their foundational methodology across all businesses
- Selling imaginary products first: never build before you verify someone will buy it
Connect with Andrei Yurkevich:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreiyurkevich/
Title: President and CTO
Companies: Altoros (https://www.altoroslabs.com/) | Protofire (Co-Founder, Web3/Blockchain)
Subscribe for conversations with technology leaders who've built organizations from Soviet-era constraints to global venture studios, and understand that trust, autonomy, and shared ownership create the conditions where talent chooses to return.
I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/ 
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347 
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership

#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better,...]]>3161falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/from-dial-up-belarus-to-350-engineers-andrei-yurkevich--69977818In 2002, a 25-year-old Andrei Yurkevich started a software outstaffing business in Belarus with internet speeds under 100 kilobits per second for the entire country—slower than a dial-up modem. Twenty-two years later, he's President and CTO of Altoros with 350+ engineers across 25 countries, plus multiple spin-off companies including Protofire, a Web3-focused venture. Andrei shares why he spent two years answering seven questions that should have taken two hours, why distribution must always come before delivery, and how giving everyone equity ownership creates the type of organization where people leave, gain experience, and choose to return.
Discover why Andrei's biggest hiring mistake was starting initiatives without a "single thread leader," why he motivates leaders with revenue shares but learned that scaling teams before having solid sales pipelines is fatal, and how following the Scaling Up methodology's "7 Strata" document became their most powerful alignment tool. Learn why Altoros operates as a venture studio with each business having separate leadership, cap tables, and P&Ls, why they explored but ultimately didn't fully implement DAO principles, and how their back-office shared services model enables spin-offs to focus purely on delivery and customer acquisition while finance, legal, marketing, and HR serve everyone.
**Key Topics:**
- Starting a software business in 2002 Belarus with dial-up internet speeds and no venture capital
- The "7 Strata" strategy: why answering seven questions took two years instead of two hours
- Distribution first, delivery second: why you can't scale teams without solid sales pipelines
- Why single thread leaders are non-negotiable before starting any new initiative
- Building a venture studio: separate P&Ls, cap tables, and equity ownership for every business unit
- How giving everyone shareholder stakes (from 0.5% to 25%) creates retention and commitment
- Why people leave, gain experience elsewhere, and choose to return years later
- The pivot from serving startups at $50/hour to Fortune 500 clients at $150-200/hour
- Exploring DAO principles in Web3: what worked, what didn't, and the governance challenges
- Managing 300+ people across 25 countries with no physical offices post-COVID
- Why Scaling Up by Vern Harnish became their foundational methodology across all businesses
- Selling imaginary products first: never build before you verify someone will buy it
Connect with Andrei Yurkevich:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreiyurkevich/
Title: President and CTO
Companies: Altoros (https://www.altoroslabs.com/) | Protofire (Co-Founder, Web3/Blockchain)
Subscribe for conversations with technology leaders who've built organizations from Soviet-era constraints to global venture studios, and understand that trust, autonomy, and shared ownership create the conditions where talent chooses to return.

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/ 
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347 
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership

#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems. 
#technologyleadership #productmanagement #engineeringleadership #leadershipdevelopment #careergrowth #podcast
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69977818Fri, 13 Feb 2026 16:00:03 +0000BillIn 2002, a 25-year-old Andrei Yurkevich started a software outstaffing business in Belarus with internet speeds under 100 kilobits per second for the entire country—slower than a dial-up modem. Twenty-two years later, he's President and CTO of Altoros...In 2002, a 25-year-old Andrei Yurkevich started a software outstaffing business in Belarus with internet speeds under 100 kilobits per second for the entire country—slower than a dial-up modem. Twenty-two years later, he's President and CTO of Altoros with 350+ engineers across 25 countries, plus multiple spin-off companies including Protofire, a Web3-focused venture. Andrei shares why he spent two years answering seven questions that should have taken two hours, why distribution must always come before delivery, and how giving everyone equity ownership creates the type of organization where people leave, gain experience, and choose to return.
Discover why Andrei's biggest hiring mistake was starting initiatives without a "single thread leader," why he motivates leaders with revenue shares but learned that scaling teams before having solid sales pipelines is fatal, and how following the Scaling Up methodology's "7 Strata" document became their most powerful alignment tool. Learn why Altoros operates as a venture studio with each business having separate leadership, cap tables, and P&Ls, why they explored but ultimately didn't fully implement DAO principles, and how their back-office shared services model enables spin-offs to focus purely on delivery and customer acquisition while finance, legal, marketing, and HR serve everyone.
**Key Topics:**
- Starting a software business in 2002 Belarus with dial-up internet speeds and no venture capital
- The "7 Strata" strategy: why answering seven questions took two years instead of two hours
- Distribution first, delivery second: why you can't scale teams without solid sales pipelines
- Why single thread leaders are non-negotiable before starting any new initiative
- Building a venture studio: separate P&Ls, cap tables, and equity ownership for every business unit
- How giving everyone shareholder stakes (from 0.5% to 25%) creates retention and commitment
- Why people leave, gain experience elsewhere, and choose to return years later
- The pivot from serving startups at $50/hour to Fortune 500 clients at $150-200/hour
- Exploring DAO principles in Web3: what worked, what didn't, and the governance challenges
- Managing 300+ people across 25 countries with no physical offices post-COVID
- Why Scaling Up by Vern Harnish became their foundational methodology across all businesses
- Selling imaginary products first: never build before you verify someone will buy it
Connect with Andrei Yurkevich:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andreiyurkevich/
Title: President and CTO
Companies: Altoros (https://www.altoroslabs.com/) | Protofire (Co-Founder, Web3/Blockchain)
Subscribe for conversations with technology leaders who've built organizations from Soviet-era constraints to global venture studios, and understand that trust, autonomy, and shared ownership create the conditions where talent chooses to return.

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/ 
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347 
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership

#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent...]]>3161falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/run-to-the-inevitable-high-trust-engineering-teams-josh-carroll--69842407Josh reveals Skylight's "say the thing" principle for psychological safety, why they measure velocity by setting aggressive roadmaps they can't hit and aiming for 80-90%, and why hiring engineers just to write code leaves half their value on the table. From understanding stakeholder success metrics to avoiding pet agendas, Josh shares battle-tested frameworks for creating environments where brilliant engineers with low egos ship customer-delighting products at high velocity.

Key Topics:
Why "run to the inevitable" means having hard conversations immediately, not later
How 360 feedback and discovering ADHD transformed Josh's leadership approach
Skylight's "say the thing" principle for creating psychological safety
Why hiring engineers just to write code wastes half their problem-solving value
The three-sprint maximum rule: forcing teams to ship iteratively and learn fast
Measuring velocity without silly metrics: aggressive roadmaps at 80-90% completion
How past company dysfunction creates self-fulfilling prophecies at new companies
Why Josh rarely shares his solutions anymore, even when he's seen the problem before
Building high-trust, low-ego teams: avoiding pet agendas and command-and-control baggage
Connect with Josh Carroll:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-carroll-83637912/
Company: Skylight (MySkylight.com/careers - hiring 20+ engineering roles!)
Skylight is actively hiring Ruby on Rails, TypeScript/React/React Native, and Android Kotlin engineers. Check out their careers page if you're looking for a high-trust, low-ego engineering culture that values autonomy, rigor, and care.
Subscribe for more conversations with engineering leaders who understand that leadership is a series of humbling lessons, and growth means constantly discovering new mistakes to work on.
I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/ 
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347 
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership

#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems. 
#technologyleadership #productmanagement #engineeringleadership #leadershipdevelopment #careergrowth #podcast
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69842407Fri, 06 Feb 2026 16:00:02 +0000BillWhen Josh Carroll tells his engineers not to bring him their hard problems, he's actually doing the opposite—he's making sure they feel resourced enough to tackle anything. As an engineering leader with 20+ years of experience who's scaled teams at...Josh reveals Skylight's "say the thing" principle for psychological safety, why they measure velocity by setting aggressive roadmaps they can't hit and aiming for 80-90%, and why hiring engineers just to write code leaves half their value on the table. From understanding stakeholder success metrics to avoiding pet agendas, Josh shares battle-tested frameworks for creating environments where brilliant engineers with low egos ship customer-delighting products at high velocity.

Key Topics:
Why "run to the inevitable" means having hard conversations immediately, not later
How 360 feedback and discovering ADHD transformed Josh's leadership approach
Skylight's "say the thing" principle for creating psychological safety
Why hiring engineers just to write code wastes half their problem-solving value
The three-sprint maximum rule: forcing teams to ship iteratively and learn fast
Measuring velocity without silly metrics: aggressive roadmaps at 80-90% completion
How past company dysfunction creates self-fulfilling prophecies at new companies
Why Josh rarely shares his solutions anymore, even when he's seen the problem before
Building high-trust, low-ego teams: avoiding pet agendas and command-and-control baggage
Connect with Josh Carroll:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-carroll-83637912/
Company: Skylight (MySkylight.com/careers - hiring 20+ engineering roles!)
Skylight is actively hiring Ruby on Rails, TypeScript/React/React Native, and Android Kotlin engineers. Check out their careers page if you're looking for a high-trust, low-ego engineering culture that values autonomy, rigor, and care.
Subscribe for more conversations with engineering leaders who understand that leadership is a series of humbling lessons, and growth means constantly discovering new mistakes to work on.
I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/ 
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347 
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership

#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems. 
#technologyleadership #productmanagement #engineeringleadership #leadershipdevelopment #careergrowth #podcast
]]>3173falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/how-failure-made-her-a-better-engineer-sairan-aqrawi--69544667
Sairan shares why she tells young engineers that no one will die from their mistakes, using this extreme framing to help them understand that taking risks is essential for growth. Discover why she believes the jobs you hate teach you the most, how aging actually made failure easier to handle, and why the most important question isn't whether you'll fail but what you'll learn when you do.
Learn why Sairan refuses to respond immediately to harsh emails, understanding that pausing and replying professionally instead of reacting emotionally often means the problem resolves itself by noon. She reveals the critical difference between competence and confidence—you can't fake confidence, but when you're truly competent, your body language naturally communicates it without you having to perform.

Sairan breaks down why having an impressive LinkedIn profile full of certifications means nothing if you can't communicate effectively in meetings, how she learned to be curious about her team members instead of assuming she knows everything, and why being a role model as a leader is exactly like parenting—your actions speak louder than your words.

From working on multi-billion dollar transportation projects with Homeland Security and Boeing to mentoring the next generation of women in STEM, Sairan explains why innovation keeps you young, how taking scary risks in your 30s transforms you into a better version of yourself, and why the first time she spoke on stage about women's empowerment she literally forgot her name and started thinking about dinner.

Discover why engineers who only know one discipline won't thrive in today's world, how Western engineering practices have evolved to require T-shaped knowledge, and why your degree is just a plus—not the pathway to success. Sairan reveals her three-step framework for becoming an effective leader, born from 35 years of experience across small companies, big corporations, county government, and international projects.
Whether you're a young engineer afraid to take risks, a midlife professional looking to reignite your career, or a leader trying to build psychological safety on your team, this conversation offers hard-won wisdom from someone who's failed, learned, and succeeded across two continents and three decades.
Connect with Sairan Aqrawi:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sairan-aqrawi-m-sc-993bb61a3/
Website: https://www.sairanaqrawi.com/
Download Sairan's free three-step checklist to becoming an effective leader—created from 35 years of engineering experience in the Middle East and United States.  https://pro.speakerhub.com/speaker-feedback/?qr=db5082b4-078d-41ee-b934-c4a961e8413c

Subscribe for more conversations with leaders who understand that action breeds confidence, not the other way around. Share this with engineers who need permission to fail, learn, and grow into the leaders they're meant to become.

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/ 
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347 
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership

#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems. 
#technologyleadership #productmanagement #engineeringleadership #leadershipdevelopment #careergrowth #podcast]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69544667Fri, 23 Jan 2026 16:00:11 +0000BillWhen Sairan Aqrawi decided to become a swimming coach as a teenager in Iraq, she discovered something critical about leadership: passion alone isn't enough. You need skills, responsibility, and the willingness to take action. That early lesson would...
Sairan shares why she tells young engineers that no one will die from their mistakes, using this extreme framing to help them understand that taking risks is essential for growth. Discover why she believes the jobs you hate teach you the most, how aging actually made failure easier to handle, and why the most important question isn't whether you'll fail but what you'll learn when you do.
Learn why Sairan refuses to respond immediately to harsh emails, understanding that pausing and replying professionally instead of reacting emotionally often means the problem resolves itself by noon. She reveals the critical difference between competence and confidence—you can't fake confidence, but when you're truly competent, your body language naturally communicates it without you having to perform.

Sairan breaks down why having an impressive LinkedIn profile full of certifications means nothing if you can't communicate effectively in meetings, how she learned to be curious about her team members instead of assuming she knows everything, and why being a role model as a leader is exactly like parenting—your actions speak louder than your words.

From working on multi-billion dollar transportation projects with Homeland Security and Boeing to mentoring the next generation of women in STEM, Sairan explains why innovation keeps you young, how taking scary risks in your 30s transforms you into a better version of yourself, and why the first time she spoke on stage about women's empowerment she literally forgot her name and started thinking about dinner.

Discover why engineers who only know one discipline won't thrive in today's world, how Western engineering practices have evolved to require T-shaped knowledge, and why your degree is just a plus—not the pathway to success. Sairan reveals her three-step framework for becoming an effective leader, born from 35 years of experience across small companies, big corporations, county government, and international projects.
Whether you're a young engineer afraid to take risks, a midlife professional looking to reignite your career, or a leader trying to build psychological safety on your team, this conversation offers hard-won wisdom from someone who's failed, learned, and succeeded across two continents and three decades.
Connect with Sairan Aqrawi:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sairan-aqrawi-m-sc-993bb61a3/
Website: https://www.sairanaqrawi.com/
Download Sairan's free three-step checklist to becoming an effective leader—created from 35 years of engineering experience in the Middle East and United States.  https://pro.speakerhub.com/speaker-feedback/?qr=db5082b4-078d-41ee-b934-c4a961e8413c

Subscribe for more conversations with leaders who understand that action breeds confidence, not the other way around. Share this with engineers who need permission to fail, learn, and grow into the leaders they're meant to become.

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/ 
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347 
Amazon Podcasts:...]]>3436falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/how-clear-communication-and-calculated-risk-taking-built-a-leadership-career-sebastien-jean--69467069Sebastien shares how his unconventional path through the Army Reserve Signal Corps taught him that to be a good leader, you first have to be a good follower. Discover why he believes the most important leadership skill is understanding that everybody has a boss, and if your ego is always involved, you'll never succeed in a larger organization.
Learn why Sebastien deliberately adds extra words and pauses to his speech to avoid shutting down conversations, how he coaches his nine-year-old son that politeness requires longer explanations, and why saying "I don't know" creates psychological safety that unlocks better solutions from your team. He reveals the critical difference between over-specifying requirements and giving talented engineers ownership through clear objectives without prescribed implementation.
Sebastien breaks down why the number 648.973256 and 650 convey the same thing in presentations but one creates unnecessary cognitive load, how forward framing gets people to care before you present technical details, and why you should round complex data to the nearest multiple of 50 unless you're building car motors.
Discover how Sebastien helps risk-averse engineers get comfortable with uncertainty through strategic proof of concepts and staging devices, why he believes he's "at least as dumb as that other guy over there" to give himself permission to ask for help, and how creating safe spaces for incomplete answers leads to breakthrough innovations.
From building enterprise SSDs to launching new product classes in 2026, Sebastien explains why the quiet people in meetings are his canary in the coal mine for team health, how he balances aggressive risk-taking with calculated experiments, and why great leaders focus on enabling their teams rather than micromanaging implementation details.
Whether you're leading hardware teams, managing firmware development, or trying to build a culture where smart people feel comfortable being wrong, this conversation offers battle-tested frameworks from someone who's led technical teams for decades across continents.
Connect with Sebastien Jean:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjean233/
Company: Fizon Electronics (Enterprise brand: Piscari)
Subscribe for more conversations with technology leaders who understand that your job as a leader is to make your boss's life easier while simultaneously enabling your team to do their best work. Share this with leaders who need permission to say "I don't know" more often.
I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/ 
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347 
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership

#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems. 
#technologyleadership #productmanagement #engineeringleadership #leadershipdevelopment #careergrowth #podcast
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69467069Tue, 20 Jan 2026 16:00:09 +0000BillWhen Sebastien Jean was five years old, he organized all the neighborhood kids into a military parade after seeing his first air show. Kids much older than him willingly followed this little commander up and down the street for 20 minutes while...Sebastien shares how his unconventional path through the Army Reserve Signal Corps taught him that to be a good leader, you first have to be a good follower. Discover why he believes the most important leadership skill is understanding that everybody has a boss, and if your ego is always involved, you'll never succeed in a larger organization.
Learn why Sebastien deliberately adds extra words and pauses to his speech to avoid shutting down conversations, how he coaches his nine-year-old son that politeness requires longer explanations, and why saying "I don't know" creates psychological safety that unlocks better solutions from your team. He reveals the critical difference between over-specifying requirements and giving talented engineers ownership through clear objectives without prescribed implementation.
Sebastien breaks down why the number 648.973256 and 650 convey the same thing in presentations but one creates unnecessary cognitive load, how forward framing gets people to care before you present technical details, and why you should round complex data to the nearest multiple of 50 unless you're building car motors.
Discover how Sebastien helps risk-averse engineers get comfortable with uncertainty through strategic proof of concepts and staging devices, why he believes he's "at least as dumb as that other guy over there" to give himself permission to ask for help, and how creating safe spaces for incomplete answers leads to breakthrough innovations.
From building enterprise SSDs to launching new product classes in 2026, Sebastien explains why the quiet people in meetings are his canary in the coal mine for team health, how he balances aggressive risk-taking with calculated experiments, and why great leaders focus on enabling their teams rather than micromanaging implementation details.
Whether you're leading hardware teams, managing firmware development, or trying to build a culture where smart people feel comfortable being wrong, this conversation offers battle-tested frameworks from someone who's led technical teams for decades across continents.
Connect with Sebastien Jean:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjean233/
Company: Fizon Electronics (Enterprise brand: Piscari)
Subscribe for more conversations with technology leaders who understand that your job as a leader is to make your boss's life easier while simultaneously enabling your team to do their best work. Share this with leaders who need permission to say "I don't know" more often.
I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/ 
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347 
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership

#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee...]]>4876falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/from-student-entrepreneur-to-cto-leading-371-engineers-taran-lent--69466934What started as a hungry college student solving his own problem with slips of paper and a bicycle turned into a career building mission-critical payment platforms serving 80% of colleges nationwide. Taran Lent, CTO of Transact Seaboard (soon to be Illumia), shares how sports taught him that being coached means someone believes in your potential, and why he refuses assignments when he knows they're set up to fail.
Discover why Taran believes the most well-intentioned thing leaders do, the hero mentality, is actually destructive. Learn how a 10-minute conversation where he refused to accept an assignment without proper resources turned a $65 million acquisition into a product growing 14% year over year. Taran explains why playing to win means having a full team focused on fewer things rather than spreading eight players across an eleven-player game.
Taran breaks down his overarching leadership framework: a leader's only job is to stack the odds in favor of their teams so they have the best chance to win. He shares why conviction requires letting people throw rocks at ideas, why Sullenberger was still asking for better ideas 400 feet above the Hudson, and how going slow to go fast through unit testing, load testing, and security work lets you move fast for two decades instead of limping along forever.
From building the first off-campus student debit card system to partnering with Apple to put student IDs on phones and watches, Taran reveals what makes closed campus environments different from traditional payments, why autonomous robots are delivering lunch to students, and how cashless campuses create safer communities with better operational insights.
Learn why great leaders define problems instead of dictating solutions, why asking smart people for recommendations always produces ideas two or three times better than yours, and why sustainable high performance over long periods is the only definition of excellence worth pursuing.
Whether you're leading product teams, fighting for resources, or trying to build conviction before execution, this conversation offers battle-tested frameworks from someone who's been building and scaling platforms for over two decades.
Connect with Taran Lent:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taranlent/
Company: Transact Seaboard (rebranding to Illumia in 2026)
Subscribe for more conversations with technology leaders who understand that short-term wins at the cost of long-term sustainability aren't worth celebrating. Share this with leaders who need permission to refuse assignments that aren't set up for success.
I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/ 
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347 
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership

#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems. 
#technologyleadership #productmanagement #engineeringleadership #leadershipdevelopment #careergrowth #podcast
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69466934Fri, 16 Jan 2026 16:00:08 +0000BillFrom College Meal Plans to Multi-Tenant Cloud Platforms: How a CTO Built an 80% Market Share by Stacking the Odds for His Teams with Taran Lent What started as a hungry college student solving his own problem with slips of paper and a bicycle turned...What started as a hungry college student solving his own problem with slips of paper and a bicycle turned into a career building mission-critical payment platforms serving 80% of colleges nationwide. Taran Lent, CTO of Transact Seaboard (soon to be Illumia), shares how sports taught him that being coached means someone believes in your potential, and why he refuses assignments when he knows they're set up to fail.
Discover why Taran believes the most well-intentioned thing leaders do, the hero mentality, is actually destructive. Learn how a 10-minute conversation where he refused to accept an assignment without proper resources turned a $65 million acquisition into a product growing 14% year over year. Taran explains why playing to win means having a full team focused on fewer things rather than spreading eight players across an eleven-player game.
Taran breaks down his overarching leadership framework: a leader's only job is to stack the odds in favor of their teams so they have the best chance to win. He shares why conviction requires letting people throw rocks at ideas, why Sullenberger was still asking for better ideas 400 feet above the Hudson, and how going slow to go fast through unit testing, load testing, and security work lets you move fast for two decades instead of limping along forever.
From building the first off-campus student debit card system to partnering with Apple to put student IDs on phones and watches, Taran reveals what makes closed campus environments different from traditional payments, why autonomous robots are delivering lunch to students, and how cashless campuses create safer communities with better operational insights.
Learn why great leaders define problems instead of dictating solutions, why asking smart people for recommendations always produces ideas two or three times better than yours, and why sustainable high performance over long periods is the only definition of excellence worth pursuing.
Whether you're leading product teams, fighting for resources, or trying to build conviction before execution, this conversation offers battle-tested frameworks from someone who's been building and scaling platforms for over two decades.
Connect with Taran Lent:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/taranlent/
Company: Transact Seaboard (rebranding to Illumia in 2026)
Subscribe for more conversations with technology leaders who understand that short-term wins at the cost of long-term sustainability aren't worth celebrating. Share this with leaders who need permission to refuse assignments that aren't set up for success.
I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/ 
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347 
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership

#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable...]]>2558falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/leading-from-a-higher-level-prashanth-kumar-tondapu--69419252When Prashanth Tondapu started his company at 27, he had no formal leadership training. What he discovered through building an 85-person engineering team would completely transform his approach to leadership, starting with a personal crisis that became his greatest teacher.
In this deeply personal conversation, Prashanth shares how his wife's cancer diagnosis three years ago shattered his illusion of control and led him to discover Advaita philosophy and the power of emotional regulation. Learn why he believes being a witness to your emotions rather than being consumed by them is the first critical skill every leader must develop.
Discover the Atakme framework his leadership team uses to make better decisions by mentally projecting problems onto an imaginary company, allowing them to separate ego from problem-solving. Prashanth explains why he tells his team leads that for their reports, they ARE the company, not some abstract entity, and how this shift creates genuine advocacy rather than blind compliance.
Prashanth discusses the journey from outcome-driven to process-first to people-first leadership, and why his company is using 2026 to focus on building people, not just the business. He shares practical insights on implementing rewards and recognition frameworks that identify future leaders, and why intent matters more than outcomes when someone makes a mistake.
Learn why Prashanth compares humans to large language models, constantly updating our models based on new information, and why he believes we're far more predictable than we think. He reveals how reality is just the product of billions of years of evolution, but our feelings about reality are optional, and why this perspective eliminates so much unnecessary suffering.
Whether you're struggling with the weight of leadership decisions, building your first management team, or trying to create genuine psychological safety, this conversation offers both philosophical wisdom and practical frameworks you can implement immediately.
Connect with Prashanth Tondapu:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prashanth-tondapu/
Company: InnoStacks
Subscribe to hear more conversations about the intersection of leadership, technology, and personal growth. Share this episode with leaders who understand that the inner work of leadership matters just as much as the external results.

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/ 
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347 
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership

#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems. 
#technologyleadership #productmanagement #engineeringleadership #leadershipdevelopment #careergrowth #podcast
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69419252Tue, 13 Jan 2026 16:00:09 +0000BillWhen Prashanth Tondapu started his company at 27, he had no formal leadership training. What he discovered through building an 85-person engineering team would completely transform his approach to leadership, starting with a personal crisis that...When Prashanth Tondapu started his company at 27, he had no formal leadership training. What he discovered through building an 85-person engineering team would completely transform his approach to leadership, starting with a personal crisis that became his greatest teacher.
In this deeply personal conversation, Prashanth shares how his wife's cancer diagnosis three years ago shattered his illusion of control and led him to discover Advaita philosophy and the power of emotional regulation. Learn why he believes being a witness to your emotions rather than being consumed by them is the first critical skill every leader must develop.
Discover the Atakme framework his leadership team uses to make better decisions by mentally projecting problems onto an imaginary company, allowing them to separate ego from problem-solving. Prashanth explains why he tells his team leads that for their reports, they ARE the company, not some abstract entity, and how this shift creates genuine advocacy rather than blind compliance.
Prashanth discusses the journey from outcome-driven to process-first to people-first leadership, and why his company is using 2026 to focus on building people, not just the business. He shares practical insights on implementing rewards and recognition frameworks that identify future leaders, and why intent matters more than outcomes when someone makes a mistake.
Learn why Prashanth compares humans to large language models, constantly updating our models based on new information, and why he believes we're far more predictable than we think. He reveals how reality is just the product of billions of years of evolution, but our feelings about reality are optional, and why this perspective eliminates so much unnecessary suffering.
Whether you're struggling with the weight of leadership decisions, building your first management team, or trying to create genuine psychological safety, this conversation offers both philosophical wisdom and practical frameworks you can implement immediately.
Connect with Prashanth Tondapu:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/prashanth-tondapu/
Company: InnoStacks
Subscribe to hear more conversations about the intersection of leadership, technology, and personal growth. Share this episode with leaders who understand that the inner work of leadership matters just as much as the external results.

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/ 
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347 
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership

#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems. 
#technologyleadership #productmanagement #engineeringleadership #leadershipdevelopment #careergrowth #podcast
]]>4594falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/how-engineering-leaders-can-build-teams-ready-for-ai-driven-development-bryan-o-neill--69351763Discover why traditional technical skills aren't enough anymore. Bryan O'Neill, engineering leader with 35+ years of experience, shares how communication skills and growth mindset are becoming more valuable than pure coding ability in the age of AI-assisted development.
In this conversation, Bryan breaks down practical strategies for helping engineering teams adapt to rapid technological change, from creating AI wins channels to sending engineers to practitioner-led conferences. Learn why the best engineers are making the shift from focusing on "bits and bytes" to understanding business value, and how AI tools are changing the role of software engineers from coders to orchestrators.
Bryan shares real examples of how his team at Form Assembly uses AI to accelerate bug fixes and API upgrades by leveraging context engineering. He also discusses why empathy mapping stakeholders makes you a better communicator and leader, and how the skills that made great leaders in sports translate directly to engineering management.
Key topics include navigating the spectrum from AI skepticism to overenthusiasm on your team, why document-driven development is making a comeback, and how to hire for the future when technical wizardry alone won't be enough.
Whether you're leading an engineering team through AI adoption or building your own leadership skills, this episode offers actionable insights on communication, coaching, and creating a culture of continuous learning.
Connect with Bryan O'Neill:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bmoneill/
If you found this conversation valuable, subscribe to the 40% Better podcast for more insights on leadership in technology. Share this episode with engineering leaders who are navigating the transition to AI-assisted development.

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/ 
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347 
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership

#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems. 
#technologyleadership #productmanagement #engineeringleadership #leadershipdevelopment #careergrowth #podcast
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69351763Fri, 09 Jan 2026 16:00:08 +0000BillDiscover why traditional technical skills aren't enough anymore. Bryan O'Neill, engineering leader with 35+ years of experience, shares how communication skills and growth mindset are becoming more valuable than pure coding ability in the age of...Discover why traditional technical skills aren't enough anymore. Bryan O'Neill, engineering leader with 35+ years of experience, shares how communication skills and growth mindset are becoming more valuable than pure coding ability in the age of AI-assisted development.
In this conversation, Bryan breaks down practical strategies for helping engineering teams adapt to rapid technological change, from creating AI wins channels to sending engineers to practitioner-led conferences. Learn why the best engineers are making the shift from focusing on "bits and bytes" to understanding business value, and how AI tools are changing the role of software engineers from coders to orchestrators.
Bryan shares real examples of how his team at Form Assembly uses AI to accelerate bug fixes and API upgrades by leveraging context engineering. He also discusses why empathy mapping stakeholders makes you a better communicator and leader, and how the skills that made great leaders in sports translate directly to engineering management.
Key topics include navigating the spectrum from AI skepticism to overenthusiasm on your team, why document-driven development is making a comeback, and how to hire for the future when technical wizardry alone won't be enough.
Whether you're leading an engineering team through AI adoption or building your own leadership skills, this episode offers actionable insights on communication, coaching, and creating a culture of continuous learning.
Connect with Bryan O'Neill:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bmoneill/
If you found this conversation valuable, subscribe to the 40% Better podcast for more insights on leadership in technology. Share this episode with engineering leaders who are navigating the transition to AI-assisted development.

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/ 
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347 
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership

#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems. 
#technologyleadership #productmanagement #engineeringleadership #leadershipdevelopment #careergrowth #podcast
]]>3538falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/how-curiosity-builds-better-teams-durgesh-sukhtankar--69308231
Durgesh shares his leadership origin story, from engineering roles at GE Healthcare to helping teams transition from project based delivery to true product ownership. Together, Bill and Durgesh unpack why leadership starts long before a management title, how curiosity drives better decision making, and why empowered teams consistently outperform deadline driven ones.

The conversation explores practical leadership lessons including building product oriented teams, creating psychological safety through calculated risk taking, developing future leaders inside technical teams, and why talking to users matters more than perfect requirements.

Durgesh also shares his approach to mentorship, acting as a “heat shield” for developing leaders, and helping engineers grow by understanding the business and customer pain points behind the code. If you are a technology leader, engineering manager, founder, or executive looking to build stronger teams, better products, and a more resilient leadership culture, this episode offers thoughtful insights you can apply immediately.

I hope you enjoy this episode!

Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/

Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347 Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership #40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching

The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems. #technologyleadership #productmanagement #engineeringleadership #leadershipdevelopment #careergrowth #podcast]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69308231Tue, 06 Jan 2026 04:00:09 +0000BillIn this episode of the 40% Better podcast, host Bill Lennan is joined by technology leader Durgesh Sukhtankar for a deep conversation on leadership, curiosity, and building high performing product teams. Durgesh shares his leadership origin story,...
Durgesh shares his leadership origin story, from engineering roles at GE Healthcare to helping teams transition from project based delivery to true product ownership. Together, Bill and Durgesh unpack why leadership starts long before a management title, how curiosity drives better decision making, and why empowered teams consistently outperform deadline driven ones.

The conversation explores practical leadership lessons including building product oriented teams, creating psychological safety through calculated risk taking, developing future leaders inside technical teams, and why talking to users matters more than perfect requirements.

Durgesh also shares his approach to mentorship, acting as a “heat shield” for developing leaders, and helping engineers grow by understanding the business and customer pain points behind the code. If you are a technology leader, engineering manager, founder, or executive looking to build stronger teams, better products, and a more resilient leadership culture, this episode offers thoughtful insights you can apply immediately.

I hope you enjoy this episode!

Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/

Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0 Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347 Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership #40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching

The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems. #technologyleadership #productmanagement #engineeringleadership #leadershipdevelopment #careergrowth #podcast]]>3356communication,curiosity,empowerment,feedback,growth,leadership,management,ownership,product,risk,systems,team,technology,userfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/leading-with-love-jacob-crockett--69166296Jacob shares lessons from his early leadership experiences, highlighting how discomfort, vulnerability, and genuine care for people often lead to the greatest growth. The discussion dives into systems thinking, the impact of poor leadership, and why happiness at work isn’t just a “nice to have,” but a key driver of productivity and long-term success.
This episode is packed with practical insights for leaders, managers, and anyone looking to grow personally and professionally—by focusing on relationships, purpose, and leading with authenticity.

Key themes include:
Leadership in tech and fast-growing organizations Emotional intelligence and human-centered management
Building meaningful relationships at work
Systems thinking as a leadership tool Why genuine care fuels performance and happiness

Sound bites from the episode:
“Wisdom might be very generous.”
“Be the leader.”
“Happiness leads to productivity.” 

🎙️ Whether you’re a seasoned leader or just starting your journey, this conversation will challenge the way you think about leadership, growth, and what it really means to be 40% better. I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/

Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership
#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69166296Fri, 02 Jan 2026 16:00:08 +0000BillIn this episode of the 40% Better Podcast, host Bill Lennan sits down with Jacob Crockett for a thoughtful conversation on leadership in the modern tech world—and beyond. Together, they explore what truly makes an effective leader, why titles don’t...Jacob shares lessons from his early leadership experiences, highlighting how discomfort, vulnerability, and genuine care for people often lead to the greatest growth. The discussion dives into systems thinking, the impact of poor leadership, and why happiness at work isn’t just a “nice to have,” but a key driver of productivity and long-term success.
This episode is packed with practical insights for leaders, managers, and anyone looking to grow personally and professionally—by focusing on relationships, purpose, and leading with authenticity.

Key themes include:
Leadership in tech and fast-growing organizations Emotional intelligence and human-centered management
Building meaningful relationships at work
Systems thinking as a leadership tool Why genuine care fuels performance and happiness

Sound bites from the episode:
“Wisdom might be very generous.”
“Be the leader.”
“Happiness leads to productivity.” 

🎙️ Whether you’re a seasoned leader or just starting your journey, this conversation will challenge the way you think about leadership, growth, and what it really means to be 40% better. I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/

Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership
#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems.]]>2738falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/leadership-risk-and-soft-power-in-technology-rob-johnson--69166208Drawing from experiences in engineering, product management, startups, and executive leadership, Rob explains why soft power, servant leadership, and self-awareness matter more than titles, authority, or being “the smartest person in the room.” This wide-ranging conversation covers risk tolerance, entrepreneurship, military-influenced leadership lessons, listening over talking, and the mindset shift required to succeed at higher levels of leadership.
Rob also discusses why control is an illusion, why being wrong is essential to learning, and how leaders can remove roadblocks so teams can thrive. If you’re an engineer, product leader, founder, or aspiring executive navigating the transition into leadership, this episode is packed with practical insights, memorable stories, and counterintuitive advice to help you become 40% better.

🎯 Key Takeaways Leadership often starts with ego—and matures through self-awareness You can manage projects, but you must lead people Soft power is more effective than authority Giving before you get builds trust and influence Listening is more powerful than talking Being wrong is essential for growth and learning Risk tolerance develops through experience, not theory Entrepreneurship reshapes how leaders see systems and change Titles matter less than removing obstacles for teams Great leaders make others excited—not anxious—to work with them 

🎙️ Memorable Sound Bites “You can manage projects. You can’t manage people.” “There are no points for being right—only for doing right.” “Control is an illusion.” “I want to be wrong more before breakfast than most people are all day.”

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/ 

Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership #40PercentBetter
#BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69166208Tue, 30 Dec 2025 16:00:09 +0000BillIn this episode of the 40% Better Podcast, host Bill Lennan sits down with Rob Johnson to explore what leadership really means in technology—and why leading people is fundamentally different from managing projects. Rob shares his unconventional...Drawing from experiences in engineering, product management, startups, and executive leadership, Rob explains why soft power, servant leadership, and self-awareness matter more than titles, authority, or being “the smartest person in the room.” This wide-ranging conversation covers risk tolerance, entrepreneurship, military-influenced leadership lessons, listening over talking, and the mindset shift required to succeed at higher levels of leadership.
Rob also discusses why control is an illusion, why being wrong is essential to learning, and how leaders can remove roadblocks so teams can thrive. If you’re an engineer, product leader, founder, or aspiring executive navigating the transition into leadership, this episode is packed with practical insights, memorable stories, and counterintuitive advice to help you become 40% better.

🎯 Key Takeaways Leadership often starts with ego—and matures through self-awareness You can manage projects, but you must lead people Soft power is more effective than authority Giving before you get builds trust and influence Listening is more powerful than talking Being wrong is essential for growth and learning Risk tolerance develops through experience, not theory Entrepreneurship reshapes how leaders see systems and change Titles matter less than removing obstacles for teams Great leaders make others excited—not anxious—to work with them 

🎙️ Memorable Sound Bites “You can manage projects. You can’t manage people.” “There are no points for being right—only for doing right.” “Control is an illusion.” “I want to be wrong more before breakfast than most people are all day.”

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/ 

Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership #40PercentBetter
#BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems.]]>3468falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/leading-with-ownership-and-passion-wolfgang-schram--69166170
Takeaways: Leadership is about enabling others to succeed, not doing everything yourself.
Ownership and trust are key to building high-performing teams.
Understanding individuals’ strengths, weaknesses, and motivations is crucial.
Emotional intelligence and social competence often determine project success.
AI can amplify leadership and problem-solving but requires clear communication of outcomes.
Passion and intrinsic motivation drive learning, growth, and long-term success.

Sound bites:
“Feelings are everything. They are the core decision makers in our actions every day.”
 “Ownership comes by encouraged creative thinking.”
“If you put people in a place where they can shine, the work becomes joy.”

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership
#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69166170Fri, 26 Dec 2025 16:00:09 +0000BillIn this episode of the 40% Better Podcast, Wolfgang Schram shares his extraordinary journey from Germany to the global concert touring industry, and ultimately to leading engineering teams in the corporate world. He discusses how his ADHD shaped his...
Takeaways: Leadership is about enabling others to succeed, not doing everything yourself.
Ownership and trust are key to building high-performing teams.
Understanding individuals’ strengths, weaknesses, and motivations is crucial.
Emotional intelligence and social competence often determine project success.
AI can amplify leadership and problem-solving but requires clear communication of outcomes.
Passion and intrinsic motivation drive learning, growth, and long-term success.

Sound bites:
“Feelings are everything. They are the core decision makers in our actions every day.”
 “Ownership comes by encouraged creative thinking.”
“If you put people in a place where they can shine, the work becomes joy.”

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership
#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems.]]>4008falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/engaging-challenging-growing-high-competency-teams-brent-wodicka--69165978Brent shares clear, experience-driven insights on why engagement isn’t about perks, pressure, or constant motivation—but about providing meaningful challenges, continuous learning, and real growth opportunities. He explains the implicit contract leaders make when they recruit strong talent: if you hire highly capable people, your responsibility is to stretch them, develop them, and ensure their work remains intellectually engaging. 
The discussion highlights how leaders can prevent stagnation, retain top performers, and create environments where teams stay curious, challenged, and invested in their work. Brent also emphasizes leadership accountability—making sure leaders are holding up their end of the bargain by creating space for learning, growth, and mastery. This episode is especially valuable for engineering leaders, technology executives, and managers who want to build teams that don’t just perform—but continuously grow and improve. I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.


 – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/

Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership
#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69165978Tue, 23 Dec 2025 16:00:08 +0000BillIn this episode of the 40% Better Podcast, host Bill Lennan is joined by Brent Wodicka, Chief Technology Officer at Applied Information Sciences (AIS), for a focused conversation on what it truly means to build, engage, and sustain highly competent...Brent shares clear, experience-driven insights on why engagement isn’t about perks, pressure, or constant motivation—but about providing meaningful challenges, continuous learning, and real growth opportunities. He explains the implicit contract leaders make when they recruit strong talent: if you hire highly capable people, your responsibility is to stretch them, develop them, and ensure their work remains intellectually engaging. 
The discussion highlights how leaders can prevent stagnation, retain top performers, and create environments where teams stay curious, challenged, and invested in their work. Brent also emphasizes leadership accountability—making sure leaders are holding up their end of the bargain by creating space for learning, growth, and mastery. This episode is especially valuable for engineering leaders, technology executives, and managers who want to build teams that don’t just perform—but continuously grow and improve. I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.


 – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/

Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership
#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems.]]>3504falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-art-of-building-trust-and-embracing-failure-jill-willard--69132569ixopay.com
Whether you’re a tech leader, engineering manager, or aspiring CTO, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways to help you become a more effective and inspiring leader.

🎯 Key Takeaways
Jill’s leadership journey began with a desire for control
Transitioning from small to larger teams requires evolving leadership skills
Building trust is essential for high-performing software teams
Failure is a natural part of engineering and growth
Leaders must give teams permission to take risks and learn
Accountability should be shared between leaders and team members
Situational leadership supports individuals at their level
Effective communication drives healthy team dynamics
Innovation thrives in environments that are engaging and fun
Self-awareness is a critical skill for leaders
🎙️ Memorable Sound Bites
“Failure is built in.”
“You can’t scale that way.”
“Confidence is contagious.”

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team
Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/ 
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347 
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership

#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems.
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69132569Fri, 19 Dec 2025 16:00:09 +0000BillIn this episode of the 40% Better Podcast, host Bill Lennan speaks with Jill Willard, Chief Technology Officer at IXOPAY, about her leadership journey and how she empowers software and payments teams to build trust, embrace failure, and drive...ixopay.com
Whether you’re a tech leader, engineering manager, or aspiring CTO, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways to help you become a more effective and inspiring leader.

🎯 Key Takeaways
Jill’s leadership journey began with a desire for control
Transitioning from small to larger teams requires evolving leadership skills
Building trust is essential for high-performing software teams
Failure is a natural part of engineering and growth
Leaders must give teams permission to take risks and learn
Accountability should be shared between leaders and team members
Situational leadership supports individuals at their level
Effective communication drives healthy team dynamics
Innovation thrives in environments that are engaging and fun
Self-awareness is a critical skill for leaders
🎙️ Memorable Sound Bites
“Failure is built in.”
“You can’t scale that way.”
“Confidence is contagious.”

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team
Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/ 
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347 
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership

#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems.
]]>3456falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-journey-from-individual-contributor-to-leader-with-bill-binkiewicz--69073916

Asymmetric wins and exponential growth opportunities

Leadership lessons from sports, coaching, and software teams

Building trust, transparency, and psychological safety

Continuous learning and growth mindset in engineering

AI in software development: promise vs reality

Engineering management and team collaboration

Internal customer needs and business value alignment

Mental models, curiosity, and critical thinking

In-person collaboration and serendipitous conversations

Automotive technology and the future of software

💡 Key Takeaways

• Asymmetric wins can unlock outsized results in leadership and teams
• Psychological safety drives better collaboration and innovation
• Continuous learning is essential for modern engineering teams
• AI enhances productivity but doesn’t replace human judgment
• Delivering value quickly is critical to business success
• Curiosity and strong mental models improve problem-solving
• Trust enables better contributions and team engagement

]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69073916Tue, 16 Dec 2025 16:00:10 +0000BillIn this episode of 40% Better, host Bill Lennan sits down with Bill Binkiewicz to explore how asymmetric wins, leadership, and continuous learning shape high-performing software teams and modern engineering organizations. The conversation spans...

Asymmetric wins and exponential growth opportunities

Leadership lessons from sports, coaching, and software teams

Building trust, transparency, and psychological safety

Continuous learning and growth mindset in engineering

AI in software development: promise vs reality

Engineering management and team collaboration

Internal customer needs and business value alignment

Mental models, curiosity, and critical thinking

In-person collaboration and serendipitous conversations

Automotive technology and the future of software

💡 Key Takeaways

• Asymmetric wins can unlock outsized results in leadership and teams
• Psychological safety drives better collaboration and innovation
• Continuous learning is essential for modern engineering teams
• AI enhances productivity but doesn’t replace human judgment
• Delivering value quickly is critical to business success
• Curiosity and strong mental models improve problem-solving
• Trust enables better contributions and team engagement

]]>4437ai,asymmetric,automotive,book,coaching,continuous,development,dynamics,engineering,growth,in,leadership,learning,management,mindset,recommendations,software,team,teams,winsfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/lessons-in-leadership-and-adaptation-with-darshan-bildikar--68943910
Connect with Darshan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darshanbildikar/

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team
Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/ 
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347 
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership

#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68943910Fri, 12 Dec 2025 16:00:08 +0000BillIn this conversation, Darshan Bildikar shares his journey from being an introverted builder to a successful engineering manager. He discusses his early experiences in programming, his transition into management, and his time at Amazon, where he built...
Connect with Darshan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darshanbildikar/

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team
Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/ 
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347 
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership

#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems.]]>3392falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-cupid-of-computer-science-with-rodrigo-d-a-senra--68943879In this powerful episode of the 40% Better podcast, host Bill Lennan talks with educator and professor Rodrigo Senra about his groundbreaking philosophy on teaching and education.
Rodrigo argues that a teacher's job is not merely content delivery but a mission of inspiration. He emphasizes that true learning and success in computer science come from cultivating passion and a love for computing in students. He reveals that his personal role is akin to that of a Cupid, whose goal is to make students fall in love with the subject, leading to much better long-term learning outcomes.
If you are a student, teacher, or leader, this conversation is a masterclass in the value of mentorship and how creating a deep, emotional connection to a subject is the most valuable tool for igniting intrinsic motivation and driving future generations to excel.


Find Rodrigo on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rodsenra/


✨ Key Takeaways & Inspirational Insights:
Inspiration Over Content: Why fostering a passion for computing is more valuable than just delivering curriculum content.
The Cupid Role: Rodrigo's perspective that his job as a teacher is to be a "Cupid" who makes students fall in love for computing.
Mentorship: The crucial role of mentorship in enhancing a student's learning experience and overall success in education.
Connection is Key: How creating a strong connection with students leads to better learning outcomes and helps them achieve higher success.
Driving Excellence: Understanding how passion can become the fuel that drives students to excel in their studies.
I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team
Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/ 
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347 
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership

#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68943879Tue, 09 Dec 2025 16:00:08 +0000BillIn this powerful episode of the 40% Better podcast, host Bill Lennan talks with educator and professor Rodrigo Senra about his groundbreaking philosophy on teaching and education. Rodrigo argues that a teacher's job is not merely content delivery but...In this powerful episode of the 40% Better podcast, host Bill Lennan talks with educator and professor Rodrigo Senra about his groundbreaking philosophy on teaching and education.
Rodrigo argues that a teacher's job is not merely content delivery but a mission of inspiration. He emphasizes that true learning and success in computer science come from cultivating passion and a love for computing in students. He reveals that his personal role is akin to that of a Cupid, whose goal is to make students fall in love with the subject, leading to much better long-term learning outcomes.
If you are a student, teacher, or leader, this conversation is a masterclass in the value of mentorship and how creating a deep, emotional connection to a subject is the most valuable tool for igniting intrinsic motivation and driving future generations to excel.


Find Rodrigo on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rodsenra/


✨ Key Takeaways & Inspirational Insights:
Inspiration Over Content: Why fostering a passion for computing is more valuable than just delivering curriculum content.
The Cupid Role: Rodrigo's perspective that his job as a teacher is to be a "Cupid" who makes students fall in love for computing.
Mentorship: The crucial role of mentorship in enhancing a student's learning experience and overall success in education.
Connection is Key: How creating a strong connection with students leads to better learning outcomes and helps them achieve higher success.
Driving Excellence: Understanding how passion can become the fuel that drives students to excel in their studies.
I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team
Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/ 
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347 
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership

#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems.]]>4004falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/se01e80-curiosity-ai-and-psychological-safety-modern-technology-leadership-with-suresh-mani--68897637
Key Chapters:

01:42 Navigating Early Career Challenges
11:13 Evolving Leadership Perspectives
29:25 Adapting Leadership in the Age of AI
42:59 Risk Management in Leadership


I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
– Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership
#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68897637Fri, 05 Dec 2025 16:00:08 +0000BillJoin Bill Lennan on the 40% Better podcast as he welcomes Suresh Mani, a seasoned technology executive, to share his remarkable journey from technician to industry leadership. Suresh unpacks the non-negotiables of success in modern tech, emphasizing...
Key Chapters:

01:42 Navigating Early Career Challenges
11:13 Evolving Leadership Perspectives
29:25 Adapting Leadership in the Age of AI
42:59 Risk Management in Leadership


I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
– Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership
#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems.]]>3762falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/learning-through-the-school-of-hard-knocks-with-amit-mital--68833535In a world that prizes learning from others, Mital shares why his own personal experience and the "school of hard knocks" were his most valuable teachers. This episode challenges the traditional view of professional development and focuses on the power of doing and failing.
You will learn:
Why personal experience often trumps theoretical knowledge in real-world challenges.
The essential mindset shift that turns mistakes into valuable lessons for personal growth.
The critical importance of reflecting on past decisions to avoid repeating errors (and get 40% better in your own role).
How embracing difficulty and overcoming obstacles shapes a deeper, more resilient understanding of leadership.
If you believe true growth comes from getting your hands dirty and learning directly from your challenges, this episode is a must-listen for executives, leaders, and anyone committed to an ongoing journey of learning.

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team
Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/ 
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347 
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership

#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems.
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68833535Tue, 02 Dec 2025 16:09:10 +0000BillJoin host Bill Lennan on the 40% Better podcast as he sits down with veteran executive Amit Mital for a candid look at his 25-year career. In a world that prizes learning from others, Mital shares why his own personal experience and the "school of...In a world that prizes learning from others, Mital shares why his own personal experience and the "school of hard knocks" were his most valuable teachers. This episode challenges the traditional view of professional development and focuses on the power of doing and failing.
You will learn:
Why personal experience often trumps theoretical knowledge in real-world challenges.
The essential mindset shift that turns mistakes into valuable lessons for personal growth.
The critical importance of reflecting on past decisions to avoid repeating errors (and get 40% better in your own role).
How embracing difficulty and overcoming obstacles shapes a deeper, more resilient understanding of leadership.
If you believe true growth comes from getting your hands dirty and learning directly from your challenges, this episode is a must-listen for executives, leaders, and anyone committed to an ongoing journey of learning.

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team
Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/ 
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347 
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership

#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems.
]]>3743falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/sales-engineering-for-the-win-with-mike-bourgeois--68770284Mike argues that the key to sales success isn't aggressive closing tactics, but a relentless focus on serving the customer and building a genuine, long-term relationship. If you've ever wondered how to close more deals, stop making the sales process about your quota and start making it about the customer's needs!
🔑 Episode Takeaways
It's Never About You: Mike's core philosophy is that the salesperson's job is to serve, not to sell themselves.
The Power of Perspective: Why understanding the customer's long-term needs is more important than the immediate transaction.
Empathy in Action: How listening and empathy are the most critical tools for every sales engineer and professional.
The Blueprint for Repeat Business: Focusing on value creation leads directly to enduring customer relationships and continued sales success.

Connect with Mike on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/semikeb/

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team
Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/ 
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347 
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership

#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems.
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68770284Fri, 28 Nov 2025 16:00:08 +0000BillIn this powerful episode of 40% better, host Bill Lennan sits down with sales leader Mike Bourgeois to dive deep into the essential mindset that separates top sales professionals from the rest: customer-centric selling. Mike argues that the key to...Mike argues that the key to sales success isn't aggressive closing tactics, but a relentless focus on serving the customer and building a genuine, long-term relationship. If you've ever wondered how to close more deals, stop making the sales process about your quota and start making it about the customer's needs!
🔑 Episode Takeaways
It's Never About You: Mike's core philosophy is that the salesperson's job is to serve, not to sell themselves.
The Power of Perspective: Why understanding the customer's long-term needs is more important than the immediate transaction.
Empathy in Action: How listening and empathy are the most critical tools for every sales engineer and professional.
The Blueprint for Repeat Business: Focusing on value creation leads directly to enduring customer relationships and continued sales success.

Connect with Mike on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/semikeb/

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team
Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/ 
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347 
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership

#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems.
]]>3933falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-fight-that-made-a-leader-with-chris-carter--68723714
Join us for an inspiring conversation on leadership and personal growth as Chris Carter shares his remarkable journey of self-discovery and resilience. In this powerful episode, Chris recounts a pivotal childhood moment—an incident with his cousin that shaped his perspective on life lessons and the true meaning of taking control. Chris emphasizes the critical importance of actively making your own life, rather than simply reacting to circumstances. Discover how he learned the fundamental principle of leadership through early experiences like hitting his first home run and how facing adversity instilled deep resilience.
This episode is packed with essential life lessons for anyone looking to step up, own their choices, and commit to continuous personal growth.

In this episode, you will learn:
How early life lessons can spark a journey into leadership.
The profound impact of taking control and recognizing, "You gotta make your own life."
How moments of conflict and success (like hitting a home run) build resilience.
The essential link between self-discovery and true leadership potential.

Key Takeaways:
My life started as a leader.
Things are gonna happen to you.
You gotta make your own life.

Connect with Chris on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-carter-885159/

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
– Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/
Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership

#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68723714Tue, 25 Nov 2025 16:00:08 +0000BillWelcome to the 40% Better podcast with your host, Bill Lennan! Join us for an inspiring conversation on leadership and personal growth as Chris Carter shares his remarkable journey of self-discovery and resilience. In this powerful episode, Chris...
Join us for an inspiring conversation on leadership and personal growth as Chris Carter shares his remarkable journey of self-discovery and resilience. In this powerful episode, Chris recounts a pivotal childhood moment—an incident with his cousin that shaped his perspective on life lessons and the true meaning of taking control. Chris emphasizes the critical importance of actively making your own life, rather than simply reacting to circumstances. Discover how he learned the fundamental principle of leadership through early experiences like hitting his first home run and how facing adversity instilled deep resilience.
This episode is packed with essential life lessons for anyone looking to step up, own their choices, and commit to continuous personal growth.

In this episode, you will learn:
How early life lessons can spark a journey into leadership.
The profound impact of taking control and recognizing, "You gotta make your own life."
How moments of conflict and success (like hitting a home run) build resilience.
The essential link between self-discovery and true leadership potential.

Key Takeaways:
My life started as a leader.
Things are gonna happen to you.
You gotta make your own life.

Connect with Chris on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-carter-885159/

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
– Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/
Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership

#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems.]]>2767growth,leadership,lessons,life,personal,resilience,self-discoveryfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/code-courage-culture-in-modern-leadership-with-rob-truxler-episode-76--68553562#Leadership #Technology #Engineering #CareerGrowth #LearningCulture #AI #TeamManagement #Resilience #CriticalThinking #TechLeadership #40PercentBetter
I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better Podcast Team
Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/
Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40-better-engineering-leadership/id1709546347
mazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68553562Fri, 14 Nov 2025 16:00:09 +0000BillIn this episode of 40% Better, Rob Truxler shares his journey from engineer to leader and how his love for technology shaped his approach to management. He opens up about learning from mistakes, building resilient teams, and fostering a culture of...#Leadership #Technology #Engineering #CareerGrowth #LearningCulture #AI #TeamManagement #Resilience #CriticalThinking #TechLeadership #40PercentBetter
I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better Podcast Team
Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/
Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40-better-engineering-leadership/id1709546347
mazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership]]>3588false78fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/mastering-communication-through-low-stakes-practice-with-kevin-hubschmann-episode-75--68447172#Improv #Comedy #ActiveListening #Teamwork #Communication #Podcast

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. 
– Bill and the 40 % Better Podcast Team Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/
Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40-better-engineering-leadership/id1709546347 
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68447172Fri, 07 Nov 2025 16:00:09 +0000BillIn this episode, Kevin Hubschmann explores the real essence of improv - it’s not about being funny, but about active listening, teamwork, and positive communication. He shares how focusing too much on jokes can hurt collaboration, and why the best...#Improv #Comedy #ActiveListening #Teamwork #Communication #Podcast

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. 
– Bill and the 40 % Better Podcast Team Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/
Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40-better-engineering-leadership/id1709546347 
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership
]]>2449false75fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/lessons-in-leadership-and-adaptation-with-darshan-bildikar-episode-74--68351030
I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better Podcast Team
Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/
Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40-better-engineering-leadership/id1709546347
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68351030Fri, 31 Oct 2025 15:00:09 +0000BillIn this episode, Darshan Bildikar shares his journey from being an introverted builder to a successful engineering manager. He discusses his early experiences in programming, his transition into management, and his time at Amazon, where he built and...
I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better Podcast Team
Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/
Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40-better-engineering-leadership/id1709546347
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership]]>3392false76fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/unlocking-leadership-potential-with-amee-meghani-episode-73--68177748
I hope you enjoy this episode!
Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better Podcast Team
Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/
Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40-better-engineering-leadership/id1709546347
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68177748Fri, 17 Oct 2025 15:00:08 +0000BillIn this episode, Amee Meghani shares her journey in leadership, discussing her early experiences and the evolution of her role within her organization. She emphasizes the importance of promoting from within, fostering a culture of feedback, and the...
I hope you enjoy this episode!
Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better Podcast Team
Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/
Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40-better-engineering-leadership/id1709546347
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership]]>3636false73fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-future-of-connectivity-with-sunil-jagani-episode-72--68130918I hope you enjoy this episode!
Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better Podcast Team
Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/
Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40-better-engineering-leadership/id1709546347
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68130918Tue, 14 Oct 2025 15:00:08 +0000BillThis episode with Bill Lennan and Sunil Jagani explores the evolution of technology, particularly in connectivity and satellite advancements, and their impact on consumer behavior and business practices. Bill and Sunil discuss the challenges faced by...I hope you enjoy this episode!
Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better Podcast Team
Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/
Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40-better-engineering-leadership/id1709546347
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership]]>4537false72fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/leadership-beyond-the-code-with-sebastian-jean-episode-71--68075177I hope you enjoy this episode!
Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better Podcast Team
Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/
Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40-better-engineering-leadership/id1709546347
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68075177Fri, 10 Oct 2025 15:00:08 +0000BillIn this episode, Bill Lennan and Sebastian Jean share insights on leadership, technology, and effective communication. They reflect on their early experiences with leadership, particularly in military settings, and how these experiences shaped their...I hope you enjoy this episode!
Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better Podcast Team
Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/
Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40-better-engineering-leadership/id1709546347
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership]]>4996false71fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/balancing-technology-and-humanity-with-alberto-silveira-episode-70--68030971I hope you enjoy this episode!
Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better Podcast Team
Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/
Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40-better-engineering-leadership/id1709546347
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68030971Tue, 07 Oct 2025 15:00:07 +0000BillIn this episode, Bill Lennan hosts Alberto Silveira who shares his journey from organizing soccer leagues as a child in Brazil to becoming a leader in technology. He reflects on the influence of Ayrton Senna, the evolution of technology, and the...I hope you enjoy this episode!
Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better Podcast Team
Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/
Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40-better-engineering-leadership/id1709546347
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership]]>3391false70fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/accountability-and-the-future-of-leadership-with-zach-wills-episode-69--67951432
I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better Podcast Team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/
Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40-better-engineering-leadership/id1709546347
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67951432Tue, 30 Sep 2025 15:00:08 +0000BillIn this episode, Bill Lennan and Zach Wills explore the organic journey into leadership, emphasizing the importance of learning from role models and the necessity of a business value orientation in decision-making. They discuss the significance of...
I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better Podcast Team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/
Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40-better-engineering-leadership/id1709546347
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership]]>4169false69fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/engineering-leadership-in-practice-with-tim-sublette-episode-68--67893919Both share insights on the challenges they faced, the importance of storytelling, and the evolution of communication skills.

Tim reflects on his unconventional path, the significance of building a competency framework, and the lessons learned from both successes and failures in his career.

The discussion emphasizes the value of expectation management and the necessity of continuous personal growth in leadership. 

I hope you enjoy this episode!
Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better Podcast Team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/
Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40-better-engineering-leadership/id1709546347
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67893919Fri, 26 Sep 2025 15:00:07 +0000BillThis episode of 40% Better with Bill Lennan explores the journey of Tim Sublette, a software engineer, who transitioned into leadership roles. Both share insights on the challenges they faced, the importance of storytelling, and the evolution of...Both share insights on the challenges they faced, the importance of storytelling, and the evolution of communication skills.

Tim reflects on his unconventional path, the significance of building a competency framework, and the lessons learned from both successes and failures in his career.

The discussion emphasizes the value of expectation management and the necessity of continuous personal growth in leadership. 

I hope you enjoy this episode!
Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better Podcast Team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/
Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40-better-engineering-leadership/id1709546347
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership]]>3902false68fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-power-of-being-true-to-yourself-with-ricardo-torres-episode-66--67805774
I hope you enjoy this episode!
 Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
 – Bill and the 40 % Better Podcast Team
Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/
Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40-better-engineering-leadership/id1709546347
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67805774Fri, 19 Sep 2025 15:00:07 +0000BillThis episode explores the importance of being true to oneself in a competitive environment, particularly regarding extroversion and individual contributions to team success. Bill Lennan and Ricardo Torres highlight the challenges faced by introverts...
I hope you enjoy this episode!
 Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
 – Bill and the 40 % Better Podcast Team
Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/
Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40-better-engineering-leadership/id1709546347
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership
]]>3451false66fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-startup-culture-and-embracing-failure-with-ken-pickering-episode-65--67764338I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better Podcast Team
Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/
Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40-better-engineering-leadership/id1709546347
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67764338Tue, 16 Sep 2025 15:00:08 +0000BillThis conversation explores the journey of leadership, focusing on the challenges and philosophies that shape effective leaders in the tech industry. Bill Lennan and Ken Pickering discuss their personal experiences with micromanagement, the importance...I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better Podcast Team
Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/
Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40-better-engineering-leadership/id1709546347
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership]]>3479false65fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/mastering-diplomacy-in-the-workplace-with-nick-woodward-episode-64--67734414
I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better Podcast Team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/
Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40-better-engineering-leadership/id1709546347
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67734414Fri, 12 Sep 2025 15:00:08 +0000BillThis conversation explores the evolution of battery technology, the importance of leadership stories, and the critical role of communication in effective leadership. Bill Lennan and Nick Woodward discuss their personal journeys in leadership,...
I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better Podcast Team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/
Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40-better-engineering-leadership/id1709546347
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership]]>3250false64fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/embracing-life-s-lessons-in-leadership-with-sherwin-socaransky-episode-63--67642520
I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.

 – Bill and the 40 % Better Podcast Team Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/ Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/ Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40-better-engineering-leadership/id1709546347
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67642520Tue, 09 Sep 2025 15:00:08 +0000BillThis conversation explores the journey of leadership through personal experiences, emphasizing the importance of emotional resilience, trust-building, and systems thinking. Bill Lennan and Sherwin Socaransky reflect on their career paths, the...
I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.

 – Bill and the 40 % Better Podcast Team Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/ Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/ Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40-better-engineering-leadership/id1709546347
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership]]>5330false63fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/navigating-the-digital-nomad-lifestyle-with-sunil-jagani-episode-62--67630838
I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.

 – Bill and the 40 % Better Podcast Team Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/

Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/ Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40-better-engineering-leadership/id1709546347
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67630838Fri, 05 Sep 2025 15:00:08 +0000BillIn this conversation, Bill Lennan and Sunil Jagani delve into various themes surrounding modern living, work dynamics, and technological advancements. They explore the concept of tiny home communities as a solution for affordable living and the hybrid...
I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.

 – Bill and the 40 % Better Podcast Team Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/

Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/ Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40-better-engineering-leadership/id1709546347
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership]]>4149false62fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-value-of-serendipity-in-collaboration-with-sanjay-ginde-episode-61--67531519Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/ Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40-better-engineering-leadership/id1709546347 Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67531519Tue, 02 Sep 2025 15:00:08 +0000BillIn this conversation, the Bill and Sanjay discuss their experiences with technology, leadership in software teams, and the dynamics of remote work. They explore the importance of fostering a cohesive team environment, the value of serendipity in...Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/ Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40-better-engineering-leadership/id1709546347 Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership]]>3548false61fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-power-of-storytelling-in-business-with-steven-puri-episode-60--67531211
Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/ Listen to 40 %
Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40-better-engineering-leadership/id1709546347 Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67531211Fri, 29 Aug 2025 15:00:08 +0000BillIn this conversation, the Bill and Steven delve into the nuances of effective communication, particularly in the context of pitching ideas and building relationships in both the technology and film industries. They explore the importance of...
Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/ Listen to 40 %
Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40-better-engineering-leadership/id1709546347 Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership]]>2659false60fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-intersection-of-ai-and-team-dynamics-with-john-stanhope-episode-59--67517775
They discuss the challenges of managing teams, the impact of AI on coding, and the importance of stability in team structures. The conversation also touches on agile methodologies, recruitment practices, and the fast-paced nature of game development, emphasizing the need for adaptability and effective communication within teams. In this conversation, they delve into various aspects of career growth within the tech industry, discussing the informal promotion structures, evolving job titles, and the balance between flexibility and structure in promotions.

They explore the challenges of maintaining team efficiency, managing dependencies in software development, and the shift from cloud solutions to on-premises setups. The importance of in-person collaboration and reflections on startup culture are also highlighted, emphasizing the need for action and adaptability in a fast-paced environment.

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better Podcast Team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40-better-engineering-leadership/id1709546347 Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67517775Tue, 26 Aug 2025 15:00:08 +0000BillIn this conversation, John and Bill explore the journey into leadership, drawing parallels between skateboarding and team dynamics in technology. They discuss the challenges of managing teams, the impact of AI on coding, and the importance of...
They discuss the challenges of managing teams, the impact of AI on coding, and the importance of stability in team structures. The conversation also touches on agile methodologies, recruitment practices, and the fast-paced nature of game development, emphasizing the need for adaptability and effective communication within teams. In this conversation, they delve into various aspects of career growth within the tech industry, discussing the informal promotion structures, evolving job titles, and the balance between flexibility and structure in promotions.

They explore the challenges of maintaining team efficiency, managing dependencies in software development, and the shift from cloud solutions to on-premises setups. The importance of in-person collaboration and reflections on startup culture are also highlighted, emphasizing the need for action and adaptability in a fast-paced environment.

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better Podcast Team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0 Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40-better-engineering-leadership/id1709546347 Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership]]>4095false159fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-art-of-servant-leadership-with-mike-auteri-episode-58--67511973

We hope you enjoy this episode!
Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better Podcast Team


Connect with Mike: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mauteri/
Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/ 

Listen to 40% Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40-better-engineering-leadership/id1709546347 Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67511973Mon, 25 Aug 2025 23:30:36 +0000BillIn this episode, Mike shares his journey to software development and leadership, supporting his people, setting expectations, and why you should do the work before the promotion. We hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe...

We hope you enjoy this episode!
Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better Podcast Team


Connect with Mike: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mauteri/
Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/ 

Listen to 40% Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40-better-engineering-leadership/id1709546347 Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership]]>3964falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-art-of-leadership-without-power-with-donald-kossmann-episode-57--67477134
We hope you enjoy this episode!
Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better Podcast Team


Connect with Donald: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donald-kossmann-8915b1/
Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/ 

Listen to 40% Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40-better-engineering-leadership/id1709546347 Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67477134Fri, 22 Aug 2025 12:00:10 +0000BillIn this conversation, Donald shares the unexpected journey into leadership at Microsoft, discussing the unique environment of Microsoft Research, the transition from a bottom-up approach to a more focused research strategy, and the importance of...
We hope you enjoy this episode!
Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better Podcast Team


Connect with Donald: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donald-kossmann-8915b1/
Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/ 

Listen to 40% Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40-better-engineering-leadership/id1709546347 Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership]]>3846false157fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-art-of-communication-in-leadership-with-zack-halloran-episode-56--67433785
We discuss personal experiences in leadership roles, the challenges of remote work, and the significance of aligning individual goals with team objectives.

We also talk about the need for effective communication and the development of people skills as essential components of successful leadership.

I hope you enjoy this episode!
Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better Podcast Team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/ 

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40-better-engineering-leadership/id1709546347
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67433785Tue, 19 Aug 2025 15:00:08 +0000BillIn this conversation with Zack Halloran, we explore various aspects of leadership, focusing on the importance of communication, understanding business context, and fostering psychological safety within teams. We discuss personal experiences in...
We discuss personal experiences in leadership roles, the challenges of remote work, and the significance of aligning individual goals with team objectives.

We also talk about the need for effective communication and the development of people skills as essential components of successful leadership.

I hope you enjoy this episode!
Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better Podcast Team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/ 

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40-better-engineering-leadership/id1709546347
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership]]>3455false156fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/how-team-relationships-drive-success-with-andrew-kumar-episode-55--67376419
 #40percentbetter #podcast #podcastshow #relationships #drivesuccess #foryou #explorepage]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67376419Fri, 15 Aug 2025 09:13:31 +0000BillWelcome to the 40% Better Podcast! This conversation explores the unexpected path from web development to engineering leadership. Andrew shares insights on building high-performing teams, the role of solution engineering, and the impact of AI on...
 #40percentbetter #podcast #podcastshow #relationships #drivesuccess #foryou #explorepage]]>289040%,better,foryoupage,podcast,showfalse155fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/love-the-grind-episode-54--67090548
Every day is an opportunity to improve, there is no ultimate goal. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67090548Thu, 24 Jul 2025 00:35:39 +0000BillI learned this from a decade+ of surfing.  Every day is an opportunity to improve, there is no ultimate goal. 
Every day is an opportunity to improve, there is no ultimate goal. ]]>360falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/a-mental-health-toolbox-episode-53--66814242
Here's a list of tools that make those things not problems today. 
These tools all have extensive research behind them :-)]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66814242Tue, 01 Jul 2025 01:52:21 +0000BillI've had struggles with anxiety, depression, social anxiety, and imposter syndrome.  Here's a list of tools that make those things not problems today.  These tools all have extensive research behind them :-)
Here's a list of tools that make those things not problems today. 
These tools all have extensive research behind them :-)]]>1320mentalhealthfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/do-hard-things-episode-52--66782033When you accept this, life gets way easier.

Fighting against hard work - makes things harder.....]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66782033Sun, 29 Jun 2025 19:04:47 +0000BillAccept the inevitable - success requiers hard work. When you accept this, life gets way easier. Fighting against hard work - makes things harder.....When you accept this, life gets way easier.

Fighting against hard work - makes things harder.....]]>805hardthings,struggle,success,thinkdifferentfalse52fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/mistakes-are-required-episode-51--66582444Only one was easy. 

Every issue was solvable. 
And each one would take time and effort. 

It wasn't what I wanted, it was what I got. 

And it taught me a lot!]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66582444Mon, 16 Jun 2025 19:49:04 +0000BillThe inspector gave me a list of 6 things to fix.  Only one was easy.  Every issue was solvable.  And each one would take time and effort.  It wasn't what I wanted, it was what I got.  And it taught me a lot!Only one was easy. 

Every issue was solvable. 
And each one would take time and effort. 

It wasn't what I wanted, it was what I got. 

And it taught me a lot!]]>427false51fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/success-metrics-episode-50--66538939
These activities are all built on a stack of small success metrics. 

Having deliberate and sufficiently detailed metrics lets us talk about, analyze, and reverse engineer success and failures.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66538939Thu, 12 Jun 2025 21:33:35 +0000BillCar racing, surfing Pipeline, 70 ft free dives, and beating software release predictions.  These activities are all built on a stack of small success metrics.  Having deliberate and sufficiently detailed metrics lets us talk about, analyze, and...
These activities are all built on a stack of small success metrics. 

Having deliberate and sufficiently detailed metrics lets us talk about, analyze, and reverse engineer success and failures.]]>634false50fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/3-mental-models-and-1-lie-episode-49--66412407And the lie was one I started leading with - but dumped in a few months]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66412407Thu, 05 Jun 2025 21:53:53 +0000BillThese mental models (beliefs) were taught to me well before my first leadership role.  And the lie was one I started leading with - but dumped in a few monthsAnd the lie was one I started leading with - but dumped in a few months]]>1191false49fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/being-lucky-episode-48--66257619
And looking back, there's a consistent pattern for how I made luck my friend.

Initiative + Optimism -> Luck

Clover thanks to: Umberto Salvagnin, CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66257619Sat, 24 May 2025 21:24:19 +0000BillI've been outrageously lucky in this life.  And looking back, there's a consistent pattern for how I made luck my friend. Initiative + Optimism -> Luck Clover thanks to: Umberto Salvagnin, CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons
And looking back, there's a consistent pattern for how I made luck my friend.

Initiative + Optimism -> Luck

Clover thanks to: Umberto Salvagnin, CC BY 2.0 , via Wikimedia Commons]]>1039false48fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/steven-puri-and-sukha-episode-47--66154606
Raised $21M to fund startups and was a senior executive in Hollywood studios. 

Independence Day, Transformers 1/2, Star Trek, Eagle Eye, Wolverine, etc - all movies where Steven's teams contributed to special effects. The man has worked with legends (and he has a great sense of humor).

We talked engineering, Office Space, leadership, and a few movie insights :-)


‬‭ Steven is the Founder and CEO of The Sukha Company with the mission to help millions of‬‭ people find their focus, achieve more and have a healthy work life.‬‭

Steven's career started as a newscaster/interviewer for the #1 youth news show in the‬‭ DC/Baltimore market (on WTTG-TV) and then as a junior software engineer & Thomas J.‬‭ Watson Scholar at IBM.

After attending USC in Los Angeles, he began working in film‬‭ production and produced computer-generated visual effects for 14 movies including‬‭ Independence Day which won the Academy Award for Visual Effects.‬‭

Steven’s first tech company was Centropolis Effects that produced those CGI effects, and he‬‭ eventually sold it to the German media conglomerate Das Werk when he was 28.‬‭
Steven then produced some indie films and eventually went studio-side to develop and produce‬‭ live-action features as a VP of Development & Production at 20th Century Fox (running the Die‬‭ Hard and Wolverine franchises) and an EVP at DreamWorks Pictures for Kurtzman-Orci‬‭ Productions where he worked on Star Trek, Transformers and more.‬‭

After Fox, Steven returned to building tech companies and founded The Sukha Company -‭‘sukha’ means ‘happiness from self-fulfillment’ in Sanskrit. The Sukha is a focus app that‬‭ bundles all the tools necessary to have a focused experience and a healthy, productive‬‭ workday.‬‭

Steven lives in Austin, TX now.‬‬]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66154606Mon, 19 May 2025 18:43:30 +0000BillSoftware engineer to Hollywood powerhouse and back to software. Raised $21M to fund startups and was a senior executive in Hollywood studios.  Independence Day, Transformers 1/2, Star Trek, Eagle Eye, Wolverine, etc - all movies where Steven's teams...
Raised $21M to fund startups and was a senior executive in Hollywood studios. 

Independence Day, Transformers 1/2, Star Trek, Eagle Eye, Wolverine, etc - all movies where Steven's teams contributed to special effects. The man has worked with legends (and he has a great sense of humor).

We talked engineering, Office Space, leadership, and a few movie insights :-)


‬‭ Steven is the Founder and CEO of The Sukha Company with the mission to help millions of‬‭ people find their focus, achieve more and have a healthy work life.‬‭

Steven's career started as a newscaster/interviewer for the #1 youth news show in the‬‭ DC/Baltimore market (on WTTG-TV) and then as a junior software engineer & Thomas J.‬‭ Watson Scholar at IBM.

After attending USC in Los Angeles, he began working in film‬‭ production and produced computer-generated visual effects for 14 movies including‬‭ Independence Day which won the Academy Award for Visual Effects.‬‭

Steven’s first tech company was Centropolis Effects that produced those CGI effects, and he‬‭ eventually sold it to the German media conglomerate Das Werk when he was 28.‬‭
Steven then produced some indie films and eventually went studio-side to develop and produce‬‭ live-action features as a VP of Development & Production at 20th Century Fox (running the Die‬‭ Hard and Wolverine franchises) and an EVP at DreamWorks Pictures for Kurtzman-Orci‬‭ Productions where he worked on Star Trek, Transformers and more.‬‭

After Fox, Steven returned to building tech companies and founded The Sukha Company -‭‘sukha’ means ‘happiness from self-fulfillment’ in Sanskrit. The Sukha is a focus app that‬‭ bundles all the tools necessary to have a focused experience and a healthy, productive‬‭ workday.‬‭

Steven lives in Austin, TX now.‬‬]]>3279false47fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/jeff-hancher-episode-46--65866515
After serving in the United States Army, Jeff began a career as a blue-collar worker at a large corporation.
Since that start, he was promoted 10 times, and achieved advanced leadership roles at a Fortune 500 company.

During his pursuit of success, there has been no greater thrill than making those around him better. What started as a dream to change his own life soon became a dream to help change the lives of others.

Jeff realized that being a leader was a way to accomplish this.
He wants his legacy to be that I made a positive impact on multitudes of people by helping them realize their fullest potential.

You can pre-order Jeff's book here: https://www.amazon.com/Firm-Feedback-Fragile-World-Conversations/dp/B0DV4N8DN8


]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65866515Wed, 14 May 2025 21:45:33 +0000BillJeff's journey began as a child growing up in southwestern Pennsylvania. After serving in the United States Army, Jeff began a career as a blue-collar worker at a large corporation. Since that start, he was promoted 10 times, and achieved advanced...
After serving in the United States Army, Jeff began a career as a blue-collar worker at a large corporation.
Since that start, he was promoted 10 times, and achieved advanced leadership roles at a Fortune 500 company.

During his pursuit of success, there has been no greater thrill than making those around him better. What started as a dream to change his own life soon became a dream to help change the lives of others.

Jeff realized that being a leader was a way to accomplish this.
He wants his legacy to be that I made a positive impact on multitudes of people by helping them realize their fullest potential.

You can pre-order Jeff's book here: https://www.amazon.com/Firm-Feedback-Fragile-World-Conversations/dp/B0DV4N8DN8


]]>2620false46fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/imposter-syndrome-episode-45--66064538Team leads and managers who were sure any day they'd be discovered as frauds. 
And yes, I've been that person. 
Convinced that my team's performance was amazingly lucky hires. 

And in hindsight, this three factor framework would have saved me. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66064538Tue, 13 May 2025 02:18:36 +0000BillOh boy, have I heard stories!! Team leads and managers who were sure any day they'd be discovered as frauds.  And yes, I've been that person.  Convinced that my team's performance was amazingly lucky hires.  And in hindsight, this three factor...Team leads and managers who were sure any day they'd be discovered as frauds. 
And yes, I've been that person. 
Convinced that my team's performance was amazingly lucky hires. 

And in hindsight, this three factor framework would have saved me. ]]>696false45fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/above-your-pay-grade-not-episode-44--65888027But that is not true. 

The real problem is people don't have a system to bring issues up the org chart and get executive attention, approval, and budget. 

Once you have a system - it becomes simple to get executive approvals and budget. 

Here's how. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65888027Sat, 03 May 2025 21:53:07 +0000BillPeople regularly tell me some version of "that's above my pay grade".  But that is not true.  The real problem is people don't have a system to bring issues up the org chart and get executive attention, approval, and budget.  Once you have a system...But that is not true. 

The real problem is people don't have a system to bring issues up the org chart and get executive attention, approval, and budget. 

Once you have a system - it becomes simple to get executive approvals and budget. 

Here's how. ]]>1238false44fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/brian-maggi-episode-43--65485677Brian Maggi has an impressive list of accomplishments. 

From building medical education websites to Desktop Technology Manager at Apple to live entertainment and now AI - diverse experience is an understatement. 

You can learn more about Brian's work at: http://brianmaggi.com/ ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65485677Wed, 09 Apr 2025 18:48:15 +0000BillBrian Maggi has an impressive list of accomplishments.  From building medical education websites to Desktop Technology Manager at Apple to live entertainment and now AI - diverse experience is an understatement.  You can learn more about Brian's...Brian Maggi has an impressive list of accomplishments. 

From building medical education websites to Desktop Technology Manager at Apple to live entertainment and now AI - diverse experience is an understatement. 

You can learn more about Brian's work at: http://brianmaggi.com/ ]]>3846false43fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/executiveblindspots-episode-42--65485227
This is not a language barrier problem - it's a blind spot problem. 
Execs think their audience understands them - but they don't. 

What to do?]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65485227Wed, 09 Apr 2025 18:01:53 +0000BillExecutives are talking but the rank and file are not responding.  This is not a language barrier problem - it's a blind spot problem.  Execs think their audience understands them - but they don't.  What to do?
This is not a language barrier problem - it's a blind spot problem. 
Execs think their audience understands them - but they don't. 

What to do?]]>1314blindspots,executive,leadershipfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ernesto-gomez-it-s-all-about-the-people-episode-41--65220820He studied social communications and has  completed executive programs at leading institutions, including Stanford GSB,  MIT Sloan School of Management, Wharton Business School, Kellogg School of  Management, Chicago Booth, London Business School, and IMD Business  School.

He wrote the book “Regrowth, How Organizations Can Overcome  Stalling by Unlocking Their People´s Potential” and is also the founder and CEO  of Aspen Mindset1, a consulting firm dedicated to helping organizations and individuals reach peak performance.

Ernesto was also a guest  speaker in the «Lead through Ambiguity» course at MIT Sloan School of Management.

“I’ve known Ernesto as an Operator of a ~$1 billion plus business, as well as the Chief People Officer of a ~$6 billion -- in his book Regrowth, Ernesto clearly connects the practical, roll-up-your-sleeves approach of a Business Leader who knows what it takes to get the job done, coupled with the sensibility and empathy of a People Leader who has experience inspiring organizations to embrace the importance of mindset. Tied together with a thoughtful, systematic approach, Regrowth delivers an insightful recipe for Leaders to not just grow their businesses, but also to grow their most valuable asset – their people.” - BRIAN MYERS, Founder, Curvejumper, FORMER SENIOR MANAGING DIRECTOR, ACCENTURE

Learn more about Ernesto's work here: https://aspenmindset1.com/
And find his book here: https://www.amazon.com/Regrowth-Organizations-Overcome-Unlocking-Potential/dp/1959009184]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65220820Sat, 29 Mar 2025 22:04:29 +0000BillErnesto is a lifelong learner. He studied social communications and has  completed executive programs at leading institutions, including Stanford GSB,  MIT Sloan School of Management, Wharton Business School, Kellogg School of  Management, Chicago...He studied social communications and has  completed executive programs at leading institutions, including Stanford GSB,  MIT Sloan School of Management, Wharton Business School, Kellogg School of  Management, Chicago Booth, London Business School, and IMD Business  School.

He wrote the book “Regrowth, How Organizations Can Overcome  Stalling by Unlocking Their People´s Potential” and is also the founder and CEO  of Aspen Mindset1, a consulting firm dedicated to helping organizations and individuals reach peak performance.

Ernesto was also a guest  speaker in the «Lead through Ambiguity» course at MIT Sloan School of Management.

“I’ve known Ernesto as an Operator of a ~$1 billion plus business, as well as the Chief People Officer of a ~$6 billion -- in his book Regrowth, Ernesto clearly connects the practical, roll-up-your-sleeves approach of a Business Leader who knows what it takes to get the job done, coupled with the sensibility and empathy of a People Leader who has experience inspiring organizations to embrace the importance of mindset. Tied together with a thoughtful, systematic approach, Regrowth delivers an insightful recipe for Leaders to not just grow their businesses, but also to grow their most valuable asset – their people.” - BRIAN MYERS, Founder, Curvejumper, FORMER SENIOR MANAGING DIRECTOR, ACCENTURE

Learn more about Ernesto's work here: https://aspenmindset1.com/
And find his book here: https://www.amazon.com/Regrowth-Organizations-Overcome-Unlocking-Potential/dp/1959009184]]>492440pb,aspenmindset,cpg,leadership,regrowthfalse109fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/why-leadership-training-fails-episode-40--64798949https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64798949Tue, 11 Mar 2025 00:07:06 +0000BillApplying critical thinking to the obvious problem: with all the leadership books and training out - why aren't we seeing better engagement and performance?385false40fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/workpositive-with-dr-joey-episode-39--64743653
He is the culture architect of the Work Positive framework, certified Executive Coach, and best-selling author of Work Positive in a Negative World: Team Edition.
His work has appeared on Wall St. Journal Money Watch, CNBC, Fox Business News, Entrepreneur Media, and countless other sites. He hosts the Work Positive Podcast.

Get your free course, Something to Talk About, at workpositive.today
 
https://www.workpositive.today/wp-about
https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjoeyfaucette/
https://www.instagram.com/workpositive.today/
https://www.youtube.com/@workpositive7529
https://www.facebook.com/WorkPositiveToday
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64743653Fri, 07 Mar 2025 07:54:44 +0000BillDr. Joey Faucette transforms companies from a negative “Kevin Culture” to a positive work culture that increases productivity and profits. He is the culture architect of the Work Positive framework, certified Executive Coach, and best-selling author...
He is the culture architect of the Work Positive framework, certified Executive Coach, and best-selling author of Work Positive in a Negative World: Team Edition.
His work has appeared on Wall St. Journal Money Watch, CNBC, Fox Business News, Entrepreneur Media, and countless other sites. He hosts the Work Positive Podcast.

Get your free course, Something to Talk About, at workpositive.today
 
https://www.workpositive.today/wp-about
https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjoeyfaucette/
https://www.instagram.com/workpositive.today/
https://www.youtube.com/@workpositive7529
https://www.facebook.com/WorkPositiveToday
]]>2254falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/barbedwire-episode-38--64594806
Last weekend, I ran another 100+ feet.
What happened in the last year??]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64594806Wed, 26 Feb 2025 23:24:02 +0000BillEighteen months ago barbed wire terrified me. Last weekend, I ran another 100+ feet. What happened in the last year??
Last weekend, I ran another 100+ feet.
What happened in the last year??]]>443falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/hr-leadership-and-avoiding-traps-episode-37--64135851
We had a wide ranging conversation around HR, people at work, and avoiding pitfalls. 

Prior to starting Retain, Lisa was the VP of People at Expa, where she led a centralized HR and Recruiting team that worked on behalf of 20+ startups.

Prior to Expa, Lisa worked with fast-moving startups (Lyft, NinthDecimal, Aria Systems) as well as with larger Fortune 500 companies (PG&E, Blue Shield of California).

Lisa-Maree is also a fan of DIY projects and power tools.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64135851Sun, 02 Feb 2025 00:39:14 +0000BillLisa-Maree Blumenfeld, has 20+ years of HR experience. We had a wide ranging conversation around HR, people at work, and avoiding pitfalls.  Prior to starting Retain, Lisa was the VP of People at Expa, where she led a centralized HR and Recruiting...
We had a wide ranging conversation around HR, people at work, and avoiding pitfalls. 

Prior to starting Retain, Lisa was the VP of People at Expa, where she led a centralized HR and Recruiting team that worked on behalf of 20+ startups.

Prior to Expa, Lisa worked with fast-moving startups (Lyft, NinthDecimal, Aria Systems) as well as with larger Fortune 500 companies (PG&E, Blue Shield of California).

Lisa-Maree is also a fan of DIY projects and power tools.]]>4111hr,legalfalse37fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/devil-is-in-the-details-episode-36--63597843
Overlooking these details is why we have so many disengaged and low performing employees. 

Details matter when you want a high performing team. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63597843Tue, 07 Jan 2025 08:15:00 +0000BillEffective leadership isn't a philosophy - it's a stack of behaviors driven by tiny details.  Overlooking these details is why we have so many disengaged and low performing employees.  Details matter when you want a high performing team. 
Overlooking these details is why we have so many disengaged and low performing employees. 

Details matter when you want a high performing team. ]]>1158details,engagement,hr,leadershipfalse36fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/pillars-of-team-leadership-emotional-resilience-episode-35--63311244
At the core, that's what Emotional Resilience is - overcoming emotional friction. 
Often team leads are stopped from doing what their team needs - because of their emotional friction. 

Here's how to get past that friction.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63311244Sat, 14 Dec 2024 01:14:15 +0000BillWhen people ask me "how do you do that?", the answer is often "by overcoming emotional friction".  At the core, that's what Emotional Resilience is - overcoming emotional friction.  Often team leads are stopped from doing what their team needs -...
At the core, that's what Emotional Resilience is - overcoming emotional friction. 
Often team leads are stopped from doing what their team needs - because of their emotional friction. 

Here's how to get past that friction.]]>881false35fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/business-leverage-episode-34--63133543
One of my early mentors taught me the importance of Individual Contributors for company revenue, product development, and client happiness.
And how team leads had the most impact on the Individual Contributors.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63133543Wed, 04 Dec 2024 01:25:53 +0000BillLeverage - using somethign to the maximum advantage  One of my early mentors taught me the importance of Individual Contributors for company revenue, product development, and client happiness. And how team leads had the most impact on the Individual...
One of my early mentors taught me the importance of Individual Contributors for company revenue, product development, and client happiness.
And how team leads had the most impact on the Individual Contributors.]]>686falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/asking-better-questions-episode-33--63016850Ask different questions. 

You can learn a lot from and about your team by asking questions - and getting them what they want. 
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63016850Tue, 26 Nov 2024 19:01:04 +0000BillAsk more questions.  Ask different questions.  You can learn a lot from and about your team by asking questions - and getting them what they want. Ask different questions. 

You can learn a lot from and about your team by asking questions - and getting them what they want. 
]]>879falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/professor-rao-on-soft-leadership-episode-32--62996134
Professor M.S. Rao, Ph.D.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/professormsrao
Substack: https://professormsrao.substack.com
Founder of MSR Leadership Consultants, India
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/M.-S.-Rao/e/B00MB63BKM
Vision 2030: https://professormsraovision2030.blogspot.com
X: http://twitter.com/professormsrao
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ProfessorMSRao
Meta: https://www.facebook.com/Professor-MS-Rao-451516514937414
See the Light in You: https://www.amazon.com/See-Light-You-Spiritual-Mindfulness/dp/1949003132]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62996134Mon, 25 Nov 2024 08:03:20 +0000BillProfessor Rao and I had a wide ranging chat about leadership, emotional intelligence, and employee engagement.  Professor M.S. Rao, Ph.D. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/professormsrao Substack: https://professormsrao.substack.com/ Founder of...
Professor M.S. Rao, Ph.D.
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/professormsrao
Substack: https://professormsrao.substack.com
Founder of MSR Leadership Consultants, India
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/M.-S.-Rao/e/B00MB63BKM
Vision 2030: https://professormsraovision2030.blogspot.com
X: http://twitter.com/professormsrao
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ProfessorMSRao
Meta: https://www.facebook.com/Professor-MS-Rao-451516514937414
See the Light in You: https://www.amazon.com/See-Light-You-Spiritual-Mindfulness/dp/1949003132]]>2671falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/removing-friction-episode-31--62968948
When we meet a happy and high performing employee - what are the behaviors of their team lead that makes this happen?

First up is finding and removing friction.
Smart team leads know this is crucial to great team performance. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62968948Fri, 22 Nov 2024 17:29:46 +0000BillMost employees are disengaged, frustrated, and low performing at work. When we meet a happy and high performing employee - what are the behaviors of their team lead that makes this happen? First up is finding and removing friction. Smart team leads...
When we meet a happy and high performing employee - what are the behaviors of their team lead that makes this happen?

First up is finding and removing friction.
Smart team leads know this is crucial to great team performance. ]]>482falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-30-fear-is-the-career-killer--62537318https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62537318Tue, 29 Oct 2024 03:42:14 +0000Bill1188false30fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/suraj-on-leadership-resilience-and-life-episode-29--62351485
Suraj is on a mission to equip you with unparalleled leadership skills, strategic planning, and team-building expertise for groundbreaking roles in technology.

Learn more about Suraj's work at https://grounow.com
or send an email to suraj@grounow.com

Thank you!]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62351485Tue, 15 Oct 2024 15:41:53 +0000BillSuraj wanted to be an astronaut - he may still get there :-) Suraj is on a mission to equip you with unparalleled leadership skills, strategic planning, and team-building expertise for groundbreaking roles in technology. Learn more about Suraj's...
Suraj is on a mission to equip you with unparalleled leadership skills, strategic planning, and team-building expertise for groundbreaking roles in technology.

Learn more about Suraj's work at https://grounow.com
or send an email to suraj@grounow.com

Thank you!]]>3238false29fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/art-of-the-question-with-sean-grace-episode-28--62237376
He studied performance at the Juilliard School and finance at Wharton. As an award winning musician and multi-instrumentalist, he borrows techniques from jazz improvisation to help foster creative collaboration and cooperation within and across teams.

I do enjoy having people with diverse skills on the podcast :-)]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62237376Fri, 04 Oct 2024 21:47:31 +0000BillSean has had a fascinating career spent spanning over 20 years as an executive in media, advertising, publishing and film production managing and developing sales, marketing, and creative teams. He studied performance at the Juilliard School and...
He studied performance at the Juilliard School and finance at Wharton. As an award winning musician and multi-instrumentalist, he borrows techniques from jazz improvisation to help foster creative collaboration and cooperation within and across teams.

I do enjoy having people with diverse skills on the podcast :-)]]>2708creative,curiosity,explore,leadership,questionsfalse28fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/executive-blind-spots-and-team-lead-disengagement-episode-27--62016726
Execs and team leads can't read each other's minds. 
And they have very different perspectives on how to operate successfully.

I hear about it in every conversation. 

Step 1 is awareness. 

Send questions and feedback to hello@40pb.com

Thank you!]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62016726Wed, 18 Sep 2024 20:35:27 +0000BillThis is costing companies a fortune. Execs and team leads can't read each other's minds.  And they have very different perspectives on how to operate successfully. I hear about it in every conversation.  Step 1 is awareness.  Send questions and...
Execs and team leads can't read each other's minds. 
And they have very different perspectives on how to operate successfully.

I hear about it in every conversation. 

Step 1 is awareness. 

Send questions and feedback to hello@40pb.com

Thank you!]]>754false127fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/succeeding-at-life-episode-26--61215997
With a deep commitment to personal growth, Michael has dedicated his entire career to helping others embrace resilience, build confidence and self-esteem cultivate self-awareness, and thrive in every aspect of life; including career, relationships and self. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/61215997Fri, 30 Aug 2024 23:56:31 +0000BillMichael Hicks is a passionate life strategist and the visionary behind the Liv2thrive proven module framework, a transformative approach designed to empower high achievers to unlock their true full potential. With a deep commitment to personal...
With a deep commitment to personal growth, Michael has dedicated his entire career to helping others embrace resilience, build confidence and self-esteem cultivate self-awareness, and thrive in every aspect of life; including career, relationships and self. ]]>3514false126fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/struggle-for-the-win-episode-25--61085949The second had all kinds of struggle - including building my first teams.
The third had layoffs - and my responsibilities exploded.

Struggle is good. 
Each time, we learn new skills, grow our confidence, and earn career advancement. 

Opportunity often shows up looking like hard work - T. Edison]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/61085949Mon, 19 Aug 2024 22:34:38 +0000BillMy first tech job was a strugggle. The second had all kinds of struggle - including building my first teams. The third had layoffs - and my responsibilities exploded. Struggle is good.  Each time, we learn new skills, grow our confidence, and earn...The second had all kinds of struggle - including building my first teams.
The third had layoffs - and my responsibilities exploded.

Struggle is good. 
Each time, we learn new skills, grow our confidence, and earn career advancement. 

Opportunity often shows up looking like hard work - T. Edison]]>454false25fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/communication-team-leadership-episode-24--61017415
How's your curiosity and growth mindset? Are you a scout for your team?

Can you persuade effectively? Are you framing the conversation in your language or the audiences?

And yes, this works for shy introverts with social anxiety - I was one for decades. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/61017415Tue, 13 Aug 2024 19:30:02 +0000BillMost problems of leadership can be improved with better communication.  How's your curiosity and growth mindset? Are you a scout for your team? Can you persuade effectively? Are you framing the conversation in your language or the audiences? And...
How's your curiosity and growth mindset? Are you a scout for your team?

Can you persuade effectively? Are you framing the conversation in your language or the audiences?

And yes, this works for shy introverts with social anxiety - I was one for decades. ]]>922communication,curious,leadership,persuasion,scoutfalse124fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/financial-argument-for-leadership-training-episode-23--60906962
I'm competitive, and business is a competition. 
If you care about the financial side of business - upscaling your first level team leads is the biggest productivity change you can make. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60906962Sat, 03 Aug 2024 00:05:46 +0000BillThis is for the CFOs in the audience.  I'm competitive, and business is a competition.  If you care about the financial side of business - upscaling your first level team leads is the biggest productivity change you can make. 
I'm competitive, and business is a competition. 
If you care about the financial side of business - upscaling your first level team leads is the biggest productivity change you can make. ]]>826falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/power-dynamics-at-work-your-hidden-advantage--60864694
Understanding your power is critical to team leadership. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60864694Tue, 30 Jul 2024 16:12:07 +0000BillTeam leads have an incredibly high level of power - and they rarely understand this.  Understanding your power is critical to team leadership. 
Understanding your power is critical to team leadership. ]]>935false1fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/layoffs-and-recruiting-episode-21--60679804I've been layed off and had ventures fail - so had to lay-off teams. 

Some thoughts on "why" and ideas to reduce layoff possibilities. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60679804Sat, 13 Jul 2024 00:47:31 +0000BillSome thoughts on layoffs.  I've been layed off and had ventures fail - so had to lay-off teams.  Some thoughts on "why" and ideas to reduce layoff possibilities. I've been layed off and had ventures fail - so had to lay-off teams. 

Some thoughts on "why" and ideas to reduce layoff possibilities. ]]>693layoff,leadership,recruitingfalse121fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-foundation-for-success-and-episode-20--60574987
Learning to have emotional resilience is how we handle challenges with grace. 

Want more?
Send us an email - hello@40pb.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60574987Tue, 02 Jul 2024 05:18:27 +0000BillLeadership has challenges - that's the game.  Learning to have emotional resilience is how we handle challenges with grace.  Want more? Send us an email - hello@40pb.com
Learning to have emotional resilience is how we handle challenges with grace. 

Want more?
Send us an email - hello@40pb.com]]>836false120fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-secret-career-unlock-episode-19--60505320Launching cash cow products in record time. 
Easy interviews (yes, they can be easy).
And promotions without asking. 

One key skill enabled this and more. 

Want more? Send an email to hello@40pb.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60505320Tue, 25 Jun 2024 16:40:45 +0000BillSolving impossible problems. Launching cash cow products in record time.  Easy interviews (yes, they can be easy). And promotions without asking.  One key skill enabled this and more.  Want more? Send an email to mailto:hello@40pb.comLaunching cash cow products in record time. 
Easy interviews (yes, they can be easy).
And promotions without asking. 

One key skill enabled this and more. 

Want more? Send an email to hello@40pb.com]]>466false1fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-framework-for-everything-including-leadership--60256438This framework is used in many contexts - but strangely no-one talks about it. 

Mental Models (aka beliefs or principles), Skills, and Reps

]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60256438Sun, 02 Jun 2024 19:21:30 +0000Bill40PB uses a simple framework for our leadership system.  This framework is used in many contexts - but strangely no-one talks about it.  Mental Models (aka beliefs or principles), Skills, and RepsThis framework is used in many contexts - but strangely no-one talks about it. 

Mental Models (aka beliefs or principles), Skills, and Reps

]]>1276false118fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/taking-the-stress-out-of-change-episode-17--60108153
Jacqueline Kappers has a fascinating approach to help people move through the emotional part of change - in a variety of contexts.

If you want to learn more - send her an email info@capillaryconsulting.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60108153Tue, 21 May 2024 03:26:38 +0000BillChange is always happening and usually the emotional aspects are hardest to manage. Jacqueline Kappers has a fascinating approach to help people move through the emotional part of change - in a variety of contexts. If you want to learn more - send...
Jacqueline Kappers has a fascinating approach to help people move through the emotional part of change - in a variety of contexts.

If you want to learn more - send her an email info@capillaryconsulting.com]]>3893falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/trust-engagement-culture-episode-16--59952058
But where do you start?

Here's the recipe - build trust at the team level first. ]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59952058Fri, 10 May 2024 00:20:56 +0000BillEveryone wants a great company culture - and employee engagement. But where do you start? Here's the recipe - build trust at the team level first. 
But where do you start?

Here's the recipe - build trust at the team level first. ]]>827false116fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/three-foundational-mental-models-for-leadership-episode-15--59493771
]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59493771Tue, 16 Apr 2024 19:41:22 +0000BillGreat leadership requires specific mental models, here's the first three that we've found consistently in the best leaders. 
]]>599false115fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/talking-leadership-with-shawn-richards-of-blue-sky-consulting--59384863
Shawn's origin story.
(he started as an accountant)

Surprising mental frameworks Shawn has but his clients don't know yet. 

Financial impacts of mental health.

Company cultures

Shawn is a business executive with over 30 years in the business world. Having worked for and with small businesses for much of that time as either a COO or CFO, Shawn is committed to business success at all levels.

In more recent years, Shawn has found tremendous passion in helping business leaders reclaim their entrepreneurial dreams.

Shawn is host of the Team Engagement podcast; a weekly “ rapid-fire ” podcast that discusses leadership and teams. With over 350 guests from all over the world Shawn is grateful to the many leaders who have contributed ideas, insights, and strategies.

Shawn is the author of the Sapphire Leadership Development System, a unique and proprietary leadership development system that helps leaders develop the team building skills and strategies that turn excellent teams into high performing teams. 

Shawn is a Gallup Certified Strengths Coach as well as a certified TES facilitator with AIIR Consulting. He is proud to be a certified business coach with the Worldwide Coaching Group]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59384863Wed, 10 Apr 2024 05:06:07 +0000BillLeadership, mental frameworks, making systems, and improving team performance :-) Shawn's origin story. (he started as an accountant) Surprising mental frameworks Shawn has but his clients don't know yet.  Financial impacts of mental health....
Shawn's origin story.
(he started as an accountant)

Surprising mental frameworks Shawn has but his clients don't know yet. 

Financial impacts of mental health.

Company cultures

Shawn is a business executive with over 30 years in the business world. Having worked for and with small businesses for much of that time as either a COO or CFO, Shawn is committed to business success at all levels.

In more recent years, Shawn has found tremendous passion in helping business leaders reclaim their entrepreneurial dreams.

Shawn is host of the Team Engagement podcast; a weekly “ rapid-fire ” podcast that discusses leadership and teams. With over 350 guests from all over the world Shawn is grateful to the many leaders who have contributed ideas, insights, and strategies.

Shawn is the author of the Sapphire Leadership Development System, a unique and proprietary leadership development system that helps leaders develop the team building skills and strategies that turn excellent teams into high performing teams. 

Shawn is a Gallup Certified Strengths Coach as well as a certified TES facilitator with AIIR Consulting. He is proud to be a certified business coach with the Worldwide Coaching Group]]>2376false114fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/10x-engineers-don-t-exist--59040405There's a myth that super-human engineers exist and can outperform 10 "regular" engineers. This is the 10x myth of productivity. It's a lie.  And it's a damaging lie on multiple fronts.

2x teamsInstead of looking for a 10x engineer, you can build a 2x team

]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59040405Thu, 14 Mar 2024 07:22:58 +0000Billbut 2x teams do There's a myth that super-human engineers exist and can outperform 10 "regular" engineers. This is the 10x myth of productivity. It's a lie.  And it's a damaging lie on multiple fronts. 2x teamsInstead of looking for a 10x engineer,...There's a myth that super-human engineers exist and can outperform 10 "regular" engineers. This is the 10x myth of productivity. It's a lie.  And it's a damaging lie on multiple fronts.

2x teamsInstead of looking for a 10x engineer, you can build a 2x team

]]>321false113fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/discomfort-and-leadership--58950151Rule 2 is that even if Rule 1 is uncomfortable - you are still responsible to do it.

This episode dives into Rule 2.

Yes, you can :-)]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58950151Wed, 06 Mar 2024 20:55:13 +0000BillRule 1 of leadership is helping the team operate better. Rule 2 is that even if Rule 1 is uncomfortable - you are still responsible to do it. This episode dives into Rule 2. Yes, you can :-)Rule 2 is that even if Rule 1 is uncomfortable - you are still responsible to do it.

This episode dives into Rule 2.

Yes, you can :-)]]>626career,discomfort,emotions,leadership,successfalse112fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/you-can-figure-it-out-aka-it-s-always-figureoutable--58949682
It takes time, research, experiments - but you can figure it out.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58949682Wed, 06 Mar 2024 20:52:58 +0000BillYes you can figure it out. It takes time, research, experiments - but you can figure it out.
It takes time, research, experiments - but you can figure it out.]]>733false111fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/leaders-are-not-trusted--58602819So many negative stories (and experiences) about managers/supervisors/leaders who do not take good care of their teams.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58602819Wed, 07 Feb 2024 20:42:45 +0000BillThis is a sad reality of leadership. So many negative stories (and experiences) about managers/supervisors/leaders who do not take good care of their teams.So many negative stories (and experiences) about managers/supervisors/leaders who do not take good care of their teams.]]>415leadership,performance,teamsfalse1fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/overcoming-introversion-with-felix-boecker--58371384Felix is doing excellent work.

Learn more about Felix at http://brokesurgeon.com

#40pb]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58371384Fri, 19 Jan 2024 22:02:12 +0000BillI'm a fan of anyone working on introversion. Felix is doing excellent work. Learn more about Felix at http://brokesurgeon.com #40pbFelix is doing excellent work.

Learn more about Felix at http://brokesurgeon.com

#40pb]]>2911coach,confidence,introvert,lifehackfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/the-initiative-advantage--58179069I've been asked repeatedly by colleagues and execs.
Across all the other mental models and skills - initiative is critical.

]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58179069Wed, 03 Jan 2024 01:40:05 +0000BillHow did you do that? I've been asked repeatedly by colleagues and execs. Across all the other mental models and skills - initiative is critical.I've been asked repeatedly by colleagues and execs.
Across all the other mental models and skills - initiative is critical.

]]>50740pb,career,humanresources,lifehacks,successfalse1fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/influencing-executives-building-psychological-safety-episode-7--57490346This helps teams trust, care, and feel engaged.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57490346Fri, 03 Nov 2023 04:35:55 +0000BillFront line leaders who learn the skills to present up the org chart. This helps teams trust, care, and feel engaged.This helps teams trust, care, and feel engaged.]]>640false187fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/leadership-as-a-system--57413584It works the same over and over again.

And it starts with first level leaders/supervisors/managers.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57413584Fri, 03 Nov 2023 02:21:53 +0000BillSmart leadership is a system. It works the same over and over again. And it starts with first level leaders/supervisors/managers.It works the same over and over again.

And it starts with first level leaders/supervisors/managers.]]>561falsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/talking-with-strangers-40pb-episode-5--57260850I spent decades struggling with social anxiety - but now I talk with strangers every day and enjoy public speaking.
The difference - learning and practicing skills in tiny increments (baby steps).]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57260850Mon, 16 Oct 2023 21:43:04 +0000BillEvery employee engagement journey starts with communication. I spent decades struggling with social anxiety - but now I talk with strangers every day and enjoy public speaking. The difference - learning and practicing skills in tiny increments (baby...I spent decades struggling with social anxiety - but now I talk with strangers every day and enjoy public speaking.
The difference - learning and practicing skills in tiny increments (baby steps).]]>59540pb,introverted,networking,shy,social_anxietyfalse171fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/persuasion-wins--56948389What you need are the models and skills for persuasion.

Persuasion means translating what you know into language that resonates with someone else.

This is how I got my CEO to change his pitches, got funding for team projects, and solved an "impossible" problem at the big G.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56948389Tue, 26 Sep 2023 21:40:28 +0000BillBeing friends with your boss is nice - but often times ineffective for making change happen. What you need are the models and skills for persuasion. Persuasion means translating what you know into language that resonates with someone else. This...What you need are the models and skills for persuasion.

Persuasion means translating what you know into language that resonates with someone else.

This is how I got my CEO to change his pitches, got funding for team projects, and solved an "impossible" problem at the big G.]]>911false14fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/leadership-styles-episode-3--56873899Here's some that worked very well for me - and I've seen others use them also.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56873899Wed, 20 Sep 2023 19:16:59 +0000BillWe all have different approaches for leadership. Here's some that worked very well for me - and I've seen others use them also.Here's some that worked very well for me - and I've seen others use them also.]]>391false13fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/how-i-learned-the-why-of-leadership--56813681It's about helping your team become more productive.]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56813681Fri, 15 Sep 2023 18:12:53 +0000BillBeing a leader/manager/supervisor is a specific kind of responsibility. It's about helping your team become more productive.It's about helping your team become more productive.]]>420false12fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/episode-1-because-we-have-to-start-somewhere--56802146https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56802146Thu, 14 Sep 2023 17:07:44 +0000BillEvery podcast has a first episode - this is ours.134false1full