Empathy-Driven Leadership: Transforming Work Culture in the Modern Workforce with Dr. Greg Giuliano

Adapting Leadership for the Modern Workforce

In this episode, Michael D. Levitt and Dr. Greg Giuliano explore the evolution of leadership from a rigid, top-down approach to a more coaching-driven model. Greg highlights the shift in workplace dynamics, where employees now seek empathetic, adaptable, and empowering leaders. Using the analogy of a soccer coach, he illustrates how successful organizations recognize that leaders should set the vision, but the team is responsible for delivering results.

The Power of Empathy and Curiosity in Leadership

Michael and Greg discuss the critical role of empathy and curiosity, especially in times of change. Michael shares his experience transforming a clinic with high turnover into a thriving workplace by truly understanding his team’s needs. Greg reinforces that great leaders create environments where people are motivated to give their best—not out of obligation but because they feel valued. They also discuss the importance of allowing employees to operate in their “sweet spot” and equipping them with the necessary resources to succeed.

Leveraging Summer Students to Strengthen Work Culture

The conversation shifts to the benefits of integrating summer students into an organization. Michael underscores that fostering a strong workplace culture isn’t just about productivity—it’s about creating an environment where employees feel appreciated and supported, which naturally leads to retention and attraction of top talent. He emphasizes that when leaders prioritize employee well-being, they build a workplace where people want to stay and grow.

Fostering Positive Team Culture as Leaders

Greg emphasizes that leaders can shape positive team cultures, even within large organizations. Leaders can drive engagement and retention by setting clear expectations, establishing healthy boundaries, and prioritizing team well-being. He introduces the mindset of "serving to lead"—a principle inspired by the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst—highlighting that leadership isn’t about authority but creating the conditions for teams to thrive.

Building Strong Teams Through Training and Fun

Michael shares a powerful story from his time in insurance automation software, where an overlooked installation department wholly transformed under exemplary leadership. The department became a well-respected, high-performing unit through quarterly training sessions and team-building activities. Their teamwork and strategic execution were so impactful that they were handpicked for a significant project in New Orleans, ultimately earning glowing client recommendations. This story reinforces that investing in team culture leads to stronger performance and long-term success.

The Connection Between Therapy and Team Building

Greg and Michael discuss the parallels between therapy and leadership, emphasizing the importance of emotional intelligence in building resilient teams. With his background in therapy and coaching, Greg explains how leaders who nurture personal connections within their teams create stronger, more engaged workplaces. They conclude that self-awareness and empathy are non-negotiable skills for today’s leaders.

Greg’s Work at Ultra Leadership

To wrap up, Greg shares insights into his work at Ultra Leadership, where he provides executive coaching, team development, and change management consulting. 

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Dr. Greg Giuliano is an advisor and executive coach to senior leaders and teams worldwide. He founded GA | Ultra Leadership, designing leadership and team development strategies that drive organizational transformation. He aims to help leaders and teams grow their capacity to enable positive disruption for markets, organizations, teams, and individuals.

Greg is the author of three #1 Amazon Bestsellers—Coaching for (a) Change (2024), The Next Normal (2022), and Ultra Leadership (2016)—as well as The Hero’s Journey (2014).

Website: ultraleadership.com

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

YouTube:  https://www.youtube.com/@ultraleadership