The Art of Growth: A Conversation with Mark A. Mears

**Unveiling the Secrets of Innovation and Stakeholder Value Creation**

This captivating podcast delves into the groundbreaking insights of Mark A. Mears, renowned author of "The Purposeful Growth. Join us as Mark unravels the intricate interplay between innovation, stakeholder value, and the transformative power of purpose-driven leadership.

**Unlocking Innovation: The Catalyst for Growth and Success**

Mark will guide us through his innovative framework for unlocking innovation potential. From fostering a culture of creativity to embracing technological advancements, he'll reveal the strategies that empower organizations to stay ahead of the curve. Learn to identify and nurture game-changing ideas, driving sustained growth and competitive advantage.

**The Imperative of Stakeholder Value: Aligning Interests for Success**

Mark emphasizes the critical importance of stakeholder value in today's business landscape. He'll delve into the art of balancing the needs of customers, employees, shareholders, and the community. Discover how aligning stakeholder interests creates a virtuous cycle, enhancing reputation, increased loyalty, and greater profitability.

**Purpose-Driven Leadership: The Foundation for Sustainable Growth**

At the heart of Mark's philosophy lies the concept of purpose-driven leadership. He'll explain how purpose goes beyond profit, serving as a compass that inspires innovation, engages stakeholders, and drives positive societal impact. Learn the secrets of purpose-driven organizations, discovering how they create a thriving and sustainable future.

**Case Studies and Real-World Examples**

Mark brings his ideas to life throughout the podcast through compelling case studies and real-world examples. He'll showcase organizations that successfully implement his principles, from technology giants to social enterprises, achieving remarkable innovation and stakeholder value.

**Insights for Leaders, Innovators, and Change Agents**

This podcast is an essential resource for leaders, innovators, and change agents who seek to unlock innovation, create stakeholder value, and drive purposeful growth. Mark's wisdom and practical guidance will empower you to:

* Foster a culture of innovation and creativity
* Balance stakeholder interests effectively
* Embrace purpose as a driver of success
* Lead your organization toward a sustainable and prosperous future

Don't miss this opportunity to gain invaluable insights from the leading minds in innovation and stakeholder value creation. Join us for "Unlocking Innovation and Stakeholder Value with Mark A. Mears" and embark on a transformative journey of growth and success.

 

Mark A. Mears is a #1 Best-Selling author, keynote speaker, consultant, and visionary business leader. He has a significant track record of building stakeholder value and driving innovation and profitable growth among world-class, high-profile brands such as PepsiCo/Pizza Hut, McDonald’s, Frito-Lay, JCPenney, NBCUniversal, and The Cheesecake Factory.

Today, Mark serves as Founder and Chief Growth Officer for LEAF Growth Ventures, LLC. This consulting firm inspires individuals, teams, and organizations to find purpose in fulfilling their true growth potential while making a positive, lasting difference.

Mark has just released his new book, The Purposeful Growth Revolution: 4 Ways to Grow from Leader to Legacy Builder.

Mark is also a member of the Senior Leader Network within Conscious Capitalism, Inc., a global organization whose mission he shares: Elevating Humanity Through Business.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/markamears/

Website: https://www.MarkAMears.com

Leadership and Positive Work Environment

Michael and Mark discussed their shared passion for leadership and the importance of creating a positive work environment. Mark shared his experiences in the restaurant, retail, hospitality, and entertainment industries and his mission to lead the "Purposeful Growth Revolution" to help managers become leaders who can grow into living legacy builders. They also discussed the impact of leaders on their teams and the need for leaders to understand themselves before they can effectively lead others. Mark emphasized the importance of words and how they can shape perceptions, suggesting that using terms like "works with" instead of "works for" can foster a sense of teamwork. The conversation ended with an agreement to continue the discussion in a future meeting.

Involving Everyone in the Planning Process

Mark and Michael discussed the importance of involving everyone in the planning process, using the example of a successful marketing and menu plan for a restaurant chain. They highlighted the need for collaboration and breaking down silos to achieve success. Mark shared a specific instance where a chef's idea led to a successful marketing campaign around the theme of "the year of originality" brought to you by Solidworks. They also discussed the importance of decreasing costs and extending menu options without adding extra items. Michael emphasized the need for time in planning and the importance of breaking down silos to work together effectively.

Leaf Model for Growth and Collaboration

Mark shared his experience of being let go from a restaurant concept and how it led him to write his book, "Leaf: A Model for Growth and Rebirth." He explained how the leaf symbol represents growth, rebirth, and a model for success. He also discussed the importance of breaking down silos and collaborating with team members. Michael then asked Mark about his book, and Mark elaborated on the four circles of the leaf model: leadership, engagement, accountability, and fulfillment. He also introduced a new model, "Love Leadership," which extends the leaf model.

Empathy, Communication, and Employee Growth

Mark discussed the importance of empathy and human connection in the workplace, using the acronym LOVE to represent the key elements of effective communication and leadership. He emphasized the need to listen deeply, observe and coach, value and invest in employees, and empower them to grow and contribute to the team. Mark also highlighted the importance of providing opportunities for learning and growth and encouraged employees to share their knowledge and ideas to improve the workplace. He used the example of investing in an employee's interest in AI to illustrate how this approach can lead to better results and a more fulfilling work environment.

Empowering Employees for Growth and Belonging

Mark shares a personal story about learning to ride a bike without training wheels, highlighting the sense of freedom, accomplishment, and growth he experienced. He parallels that experience and empowers employees to feel valued, coached, and invested in their work. Michael affirms the importance of creating a psychologically safe environment where employees feel a sense of belonging, are nurtured, and are given opportunities. He shares an example of reducing turnover by implementing such practices in an organization he led.

Sentimental Value of Childhood Bikes

Michael shared a personal story about his childhood bikes, highlighting the sentimental value of a green bike given to him by his great-grandfather. He also recounted how his father, instead of retrieving the motorcycle after a neighbor's child took it, chose to let the child keep it, demonstrating grace and love. Michael expressed his gratitude for his father's decision, emphasizing the importance of empathy and understanding in difficult situations.

Fostering a Positive Work Environment and Belonging

Michael and Mark discussed the importance of creating a positive work environment that fosters a sense of community and belonging. They emphasized the need for organizations to prioritize the well-being of their employees, as this leads to increased productivity and loyalty. Michael highlighted the importance of leading by example and caring for people, while Mark stressed the significance of feeling included and valued in the workplace. They also touched on total diversity, encompassing outer and inner diversity, and the need for psychological safety to encourage vulnerability and creativity. The conversation concluded with Mark's emphasis on the importance of positively impacting others' lives and creating a virtuous cycle of reciprocity.

Creating a Positive Work Environment

Michael and Mark discussed the importance of creating a positive work environment and its impact on employees. Mark shared his book, "Purposeful Growth Revolution," and offered a free self-assessment on his website. Michael encouraged everyone to take the assessment and subscribe to Mark's newsletter. They both expressed their desire to continue the conversation and support each other in their respective roles