Breakfast Leadership Show

Innovative Leadership Insights: Unleashing X-Teams and Family Ghosts with Deborah Ancona, MIT Professor and Team Dynamics Expert

Deborah Ancona's area of expertise includes organizational behavior, leadership, and the dynamics of high-performing teams. She is mainly known for her pioneering research into how successful teams operate, which led to the concept of X-teams—a framework for driving innovation within large organizations. Ancona's work also focuses on distributed leadership and creating research-based tools, practices, and teaching models to foster creative leadership at all organizational levels.
 
Deborah is a Massachusetts Institute of Technology professor at the Sloan School of Management. She is best known for pioneering research on high-performing teams and distributing nimble leadership and leadership signatures.Deborah is also the founder of the MIT Leadership Center, which is revolutionizing traditional leadership to solve the most challenging problems in management.Her book X-Teams gives deep insights into creating innovative, successful teams with examples from Microsoft, Takeda, and the Museum of Modern Art. She also co-founded xLEAD, which develops research-based tools to encourage creative leadership across management levels. Her work bridges theory and practice, bringing novel ideas into leadership practice.Deborah has been with MIT for over 20 years and, in 2018, was awarded the Jamieson Prize, MIT Sloan’s highest teaching honor. Her widely acclaimed research on how family upbringing affects workplace behavior was published in the Harvard Business Review, titled “Family Ghosts in the Executive Suite”, as was her article on the 4-CAPS+ model, “In Praise of the Incomplete Leader”.https://www.linkedin.com/in/deborahancona123/https://mitsloan.mit.edu/centers-initiatives/mit-leadership-center/our-people-mit-leadership-centerhttps://www.amazon.com/dp/1591396921https://www.xlead.co/aboutOn the podcast, Deborah would love to talk about:How high-performing teams monitor trends within and outside the organization to perform better.I use the distributed leadership model to adapt to today's rapidly changing business environment.Knowing your “family ghosts” and leadership signature can push your leadership to the next level.
Leadership in Rapidly Changing Environments
Deborah, a professor at MIT Sloan, discussed her research on leadership for rapidly changing environments, including developing capabilities for innovative teams and agile organizations, as well as the impact of childhood experiences on executives. Michael acknowledged the complexity of contemporary organizations due to factors like the pandemic, new workforce generations, and differing expectations.
Understanding Purpose and Culture in Organizations
Michael and Deborah discussed the importance of clearly understanding an organization's purpose and culture. Deborah emphasized the significance of answering the question of 'why should we exist?' and highlighted the usefulness of culture decks, which help to align employees around a shared vision. Michael illustrated this point by discussing the evolution of Netflix and the need for their culture to remain in sync with their changing business model. Both agreed on the necessity of inclusiveness in shaping an organization's culture.
Leadership, Learning, and Curiosity in Organizations
Michael and Deborah discussed the importance of including all stakeholders and fostering a culture of learning and curiosity in organizations. They emphasized the need for leadership at all levels and the value of funneling and choice mechanisms to evaluate new ideas. They also highlighted the role of curiosity in driving innovation and overcoming challenges. Deborah shared her insights on how leaders can facilitate learning and address their "shoulds" that may hold them back. Michael agreed and pointed out the benefits of involving teams as advisors and maintaining a curious approach to opportunities and challenges.
X Teams and Curiosity in Organizations
Deborah discussed creating 'X teams,' which are externally focused and aim to understand customer demands, technology usage, and other contextual factors. She emphasized the importance of curiosity and inter-team coordination in these groups. Deborah also suggested that organizations could encourage curiosity by having team members interview customers or explore how technology is used in their domain. Michael shared a positive experience where such an approach was successfully applied, highlighting the value of customer feedback and the potential for new product features.
Understanding Customer Needs and Empathy
Michael and Deborah discussed the importance of understanding customer needs and pain points. Deborah shared an example of a Microsoft team that delved deeper into understanding their customers' issues, leading to the development of products that addressed those problems. Michael agreed with this approach, highlighting the value of conversations that seek to understand different viewpoints and perspectives. He emphasized the need for more people to engage in such discussions to foster empathy and understanding, which he believes is crucial today.
Disruptive Technologies for Positive Change
Michael and Deborah discussed the future of organizations and society. Deborah expressed hope in the potential of new technologies to positively impact various domains, such as healthcare and climate change. However, she also highlighted the need to balance the use of technology with empathy and critical thinking. Michael agreed, noting that people are increasingly curious and willing to learn from others to improve their organizations. Both emphasized the importance of discarding ineffective practices and using technology for the betterment of society.
Discussing Deborah's Work on Healthy Organizations
Michael and Deborah discussed her work and the importance of creating healthy organizations. Deborah shared that her work could be found on her faculty page at MIT Sloan, Exec Ed at MIT Sloan, and Exlead Co, which offers access to tools and a simulation tool. Michael expressed his appreciation for Deborah's work, highlighting its significance in making organizations healthier and more productive. They both emphasized the importance of reframing and changing mindsets to improve individual and organizational performance.

Unleashing Flow: Transforming Organizations with Nigel Thurlow, Lean and Agile Expert

Nigel is the CEO of The Flow Consortium and one of the most sought-after speakers and experts in Lean, Agile, and Flow methods.He was Toyota's first Chief of Agile, where he co-created The Flow System and the award-winning Scrum, the Toyota Way approach.Nigel has trained 8,500+ people in Scrum, Agile, Lean, Flow, and Complexity approaches. His coaching portfolio includes GE, Bose, 3M, Microsoft, Vodafone, Lumen, Cox Automotive, and MIT. He is a Forbes Invite-only Coaches Council member and will be listed in the Who’s Who's America later this year.Nigel has co-authored many peer-reviewed papers and books on methods and approaches to accelerating business transformation, including the renowned “The "low System” series. He is a highly sought-after international keynote speaker and will appear on the TV series Advancements, which aired on Bloomberg and Amazon Prime in June 2024.https://www.linkedin.com/in/nigelthurlow/
Quick recap
Lean Thinking and Empowering Workers
Nigel and Michael discussed their experiences and perspectives on lean thinking and its application in various work environments. Recalling his time at Toyota, Nigel emphasized the importance of eliminating non-value-added activities and the concept of 'Gemba,' which refers to the actual place where the work is done. He also highlighted the significance of empowering people closest to the work and giving them decision-making authority. Michael shared a nurse's story from a healthcare setting, illustrating how lean principles can be applied to improve efficiency and safety. Both agreed on the need for a balance between enhancing processes and respecting the autonomy and expertise of workers.
Empowering People, Psychological Safety, and Flow
Nigel and Michael discussed the importance of empowering people in an organization, particularly those closest to the work. They emphasized the value of giving employees agency, voice, and ownership in decision-making, which improves their psychological well-being and leads to better outcomes for the organization. They also touched on the concept of psychological safety and how it fosters a culture of trust and collaboration. Lastly, they introduced the idea of the flow system, which they described as a game-changer for organizations.
Developing a Context-Based Learning System
Nigel discussed the development and purpose of a system of learning and understanding based on three key areas: complexity, thinking, distributed leadership, and team science. He emphasized the interconnectedness of these areas and the importance of moving away from rigid frameworks and prescriptive approaches. Instead, he advocated for a context-based approach that considers the effectiveness and utility of tools in specific contexts. Nigel also highlighted the significance of psychological safety, the power distance index, and other leadership aspects in this system.
Understanding Flow System Dynamics
Nigel and Michael discussed the concept of the flow system, which combines various tools and techniques. Michael emphasized the importance of understanding the flow system's dynamics, likening it to a non-linear, squiggly line rather than a straight one. He highlighted that while unpredictable factors like wars and pandemics can disrupt the flow, a comprehensive understanding of the components and ingredients can help mitigate potential issues.
Teamwork, Flow, and Customer Perspective
Michael emphasized the importance of teamwork and supporting each other, especially those struggling. Nigel then discussed the concept of 'flow,' which he described as a psychological state of being fully engaged in and focused on a task or activity. He highlighted that teams must be free from fear and boredom to maintain flow by providing meaningful, challenging, and purposeful work. Nigel also stressed the importance of understanding the value of their work from the perspective of the customer or receiver. Michael agreed, pointing out that when people feel part of a team, they are more likely to contribute and keep things moving.

Motivation Monday: Unlocking Your Energy Advantage: Insights from Ricardo Sunderland for Fulfillment and Success

ABOUT THE BOOK: The Energy Advantage (Link to purchase)
How do you maximize your success and impact as a leader while maintaining your stamina and sanity? The answer doesn’t lie in simple “efficiency.” It’s not about making better use of your time and resources. It’s about understanding how energy works and how to tap into its power.
 
Many people live lives of intense and false emotional compartmentalization. For example, they strive to be one person in the corner office (invincible warrior) and another at the dinner table (sensitive spouse), and they struggle to keep those two lives from bleeding into and contradicting each other. But as it turns out, this takes tremendous energy and is almost always impossible. One person can’t be two different people.
 
So, how do you live an integrated life of fulfillment, purpose, and success? How do you create an alignment between your head, heart, and creative power that is in coherence with your true self? The answer is simple and complex: You must move from managing your time to mastering your energy.
 
For more than a decade and a half, Ricardo Sunderland has worked with the leaders of some of the world's largest and most recognizable companies. He has learned firsthand that mental and physical energy are no longer all that is needed for success for today's leaders—at all levels in their organizations. Today’s leaders must bring emotional and spiritual energy to their roles and create a space in which they and their team members feel safe to challenge each other, grow together, and thrive.
 
Given this significant leadership challenge, leaders must gain an energy advantage.
You will learn:
What gives you energy?
How to identify the energy blockers that are holding you back.
Every situation presents a choice for you to unlock the transformational energy source within you.
The path to gaining the energy advantage on seven distinct levels.
Quick recap
Summary
Ricardo's European Roadshow and Leadership Observations
Michael and Ricardo talked about Ricardo's recent European roadshow, during which he met with 250 leaders in seven cities. Ricardo shared his observations about the current state of leadership, noting that leaders are increasingly focused on implementing abstract concepts in their workplaces. Michael introduced Ricardo as a partner at Egan Zender, a leadership advisory firm, and a coach to senior leaders of major global organizations. The discussion was set to continue for 15 to 25 minutes, with the potential for Ricardo to share links and other resources.
Managing Energy for Optimal Productivity
Ricardo and Michael discussed the importance of managing one's energy levels throughout the day for optimal productivity and well-being. Ricardo shared his insights on this topic, emphasizing understanding what activities give one energy. Michael agreed, sharing his experiences with energy management and highlighting the significance of this approach in addressing current organizational challenges. Both agreed on following one's energy levels for maximum efficiency and effectiveness.
Emotional Awareness for Productivity and Resiliency
Ricardo discussed the importance of being aware of one's emotional state for optimal productivity and resiliency. He emphasized that understanding whether a day would be an 'energy giving' or 'energy taking' allows for intentional scheduling and increased clarity of mind. Ricardo also shared his recent experience launching a book and traveling to six European cities to meet with 250 leaders. He reported that the response was positive and curious about integrating the concepts.
Integrating Personal and Professional Life for Success
Ricardo and Michael discussed the importance of integrating personal and professional aspects of life to achieve fulfillment and success in the corporate world. They emphasized the need for individuals and organizations to understand their 'why' and focus on their unique strengths and energy levels. Michael shared his insights on creating an environment that allows individuals to be authentic and the benefits of understanding and managing one's energy levels. They also touched on the value of transparency and empathy in the workplace. Towards the end, they discussed the time-consuming nature of writing a book and the personal significance behind Ricardo's upcoming publication.
Ricardo's Book Writing Journey and Purpose
Ricardo shared his experience writing a book described as a labor of love. He emphasized the importance of connecting with one's purpose, following one's energy, and being intentional about one's desires. He also highlighted the need to accept the consequences of these desires. Michael agreed with Ricardo's insights and acknowledged the role of Harper Collins in the book's success.
Leadership Book and Energy Management
Michael and Ricardo discussed the impact of a leadership book and its unique approach to energy management in organizations. Michael highlighted the book's potential to create a positive ripple effect in society and businesses and its relevance for leaders managing constantly changing organizations. They also discussed the importance of creating a productive and engaging work environment where employees can operate in their sweet spot. Michael expressed optimism about the future, given leaders' open-mindedness and desire for improvement.
Unexpected Reactions to Ricardo's Book
Michael and Ricardo discussed the unexpected reactions to Ricardo's book, which focused on the concept of human energy and its leadership role. Ricardo shared that the book received positive feedback from large companies and was found practical and actionable. He emphasized the importance of incorporating spiritual energy into leadership to create a culture of vulnerability and strength. Michael agreed with Ricardo's views, highlighting the universal energy that connects all and the need to communicate with it for enlightenment.
Ricardo's Book, Charity, and Remote Work
Michael and Ricardo discussed Ricardo's new book, a game changer with all its proceeds donated to charity. Ricardo shared that he is promoting the book not for sales but to create a movement in partnership with his firm. Michael appreciated Ricardo's time and promised to share the show notes with his editor. They also discussed the impact of the pandemic on work and the adjustment to remote work settings.

AI Revolution in HVAC, Plumbing & Electrical: Gene Slade's Lead Ninja System Explained

Gene Slade, CEO of Lead Ninja System and Lead Ninja AI, is a pioneering force in sales training, conversational AI, and business development in the HVAC, plumbing, and electrical industries. With a steadfast commitment to empowering trade professionals, Gene offers transformative coaching experiences that revolutionize how business owners approach sales and growth through personalized guidance, community support, and access to exclusive resources.
For more information, please visit https://leadninjasystem.com/ and http://leadninjaai.com - https://www.facebook.com/genesslade/ - https://www.instagram.com/geneslade/?hl=en
Quick recap
Gene's Background and Conversational AI
Gene and Michael discussed Gene's background, including his trade experience, time at the University of Tennessee, and subsequent career in sales and business ownership. They also touched on Gene's involvement with conversational AI technology and the skills he has gained from his work in the trades, such as customer service, discipline, and sales skills. Michael emphasized the importance of good communication in business and the potential benefits of AI technology in reaching out and finding people. They both agreed on the importance of regular maintenance in various aspects of life, with Michael sharing a personal anecdote about his neighbor's well-maintained HVAC system.
AI Implementation in Customer Maintenance
Michael and Gene discussed implementing AI in their business operations. Michael proposed using AI to track customer equipment maintenance, suggesting it could automatically generate reminders for customers when their machines needed servicing. Gene agreed, highlighting that this would reduce maintenance costs for customers and help contractors fill their schedules more efficiently. They also noted the AI's capability to make multiple calls simultaneously, a feature they likened to a road repair service during inclement weather.
AI Integration in Industries Discussed
Michael and Gene discussed the potential of artificial intelligence (AI) in various industries, particularly healthcare and customer service. Michael highlighted the advantages of AI, such as its ability to provide personalized services and handle a large volume of calls simultaneously, thereby reducing labor costs. Gene confirmed that their company has successfully incorporated AI into their operations, with 95% of customers preferring to interact with the AI system over traditional call centers. They also discussed the potential of AI to serve a global customer base, offering improved efficiency and cost-effectiveness.
New Technology Boosts Job Opportunities
Michael and Gene discussed the potential of new technology to improve business operations and job opportunities. Michael argued that automation could free up staff to focus on revenue-generating activities and create new job opportunities. Gene agreed, suggesting that technology could be used to handle tasks that humans find tedious, such as follow-up in sales. They both expressed optimism about the potential of technology to help the trades but also acknowledged the need for workers to adapt and learn new skills to remain competitive.
AI-Powered Knowledge Bank Development
Gene discussed the development of an AI-powered knowledge bank to handle objections during follow-up telephone conversations. He believed this technology could significantly increase revenue, estimating an additional $1 million. Gene also envisioned the AI system role-playing and training with technicians before their customer interactions. Michael concurred, acknowledging the potential positive impact on businesses of all sizes. However, he noted that the technology is not yet fully developed.
Promoting Accessibility and Sharing Resources
Michael and Gene discussed the promotion and accessibility of Gene's work through Lead Ninja Systems. Gene encouraged people to connect with him via his website, social media, or phone, emphasizing his commitment to accessibility and helping others.

Wednesday Wisdom: Changing the Culture of Your Organization

Is your company culture holding you back? Learn how to revolutionize it in just three steps.
Episode Summary:
In this episode, we dive into the critical process of changing organizational culture. We explore the top three steps leaders can take to create meaningful and lasting cultural shifts within their companies. From assessing current culture to implementing new behaviors, we provide actionable insights to help you transform your workplace.
Key Takeaways: [• Step 1 Assess your current organizational culture• Step 2 Define the desired culture and create a plan• Step 3 Implement and reinforce new behaviors
We discuss how to:- Identify the gaps between your current and desired culture- Develop a clear vision for your organization's future- Create strategies to embed new cultural norms- Overcome resistance to change- Measure the success of your cultural transformation efforts
Resources Mentioned:• Link to the full article: https://www.breakfastleadership.com/blog/the-top-three-steps-for-changing-the-culture-of-your-organization• Book recommendation: "The Culture Code" by Daniel Coyle
 If you found this episode valuable, please subscribe to our podcast and leave a review. For more leadership insights, visit our website at https://BreakfastLeadership.com 
 

Future of Work Expert Steve Cadigan on Leadership, Talent Strategies & Burnout Solutions | Ex-LinkedIn CHRO

Steve is a top talent strategist and leadership expert with 30+ years of experience. He famously led LinkedIn’s early hyper-growth phase as its first CHRO, building its world-class company culture from scratch and scaling the organization from 400 to 4,000 employees.       
 
As one of the most provocative global thought leaders on the future of work, Steve is hired by top companies and entire countries to help them navigate the talent landscape. His clientele spans from Google, X, Slack, BBC, and Intel to the City of Lisbon, which hired him to develop the startup incubator Unicorn Factory.      
 
His award-winning book Workquake is considered a game changer for leaders and organizations on the future of work in a post-COVID world. He has also written for Forbes and Inc. and will soon write for Business Insider. He frequently appears on Bloomberg and CNBC to discuss the evolving nature of work, talent management, the Big Resignation, and successful leadership.  
 
Steve is a sought-after keynote speaker who has delivered commencement addresses at Stanford and the University of San Francisco. Legacy institutions like Harvard and top VCs and management firms, including Accenture, Deloitte, and McKinsey, regularly ask him for advice.     
 
Quick recap
Summary
Future of Work and Talent Challenges
Michael and Steve discussed the future of work and the challenges leaders face in managing talent. Steve, with over 40 years of experience in human resources, shared his insights on how the work landscape has changed, particularly in the wake of the Covid-19 pandemic. They both agreed on the importance of their conversation and discussed the challenges organizations are facing in talent acquisition and retention. Steve emphasized that leaders need to understand and adapt to these changes to effectively motivate and retain their employees.
Burnout, Healthcare Challenges, and Enrollment Trends
Michael and Steve discussed the challenges and burnout issues faced by healthcare professionals, particularly during the pandemic. They highlighted the decreasing number of people working in the healthcare field and the unprecedented challenges faced by healthcare systems. Steve noted the significant number of people leaving the education field, indicating a broader failure in these essential professions. They also discussed the challenges faced by the nursing profession, particularly the diminishing influx of talent and the increasing questioning of its brand. Michael agreed, noting similar issues in other industries, such as wastewater and grain elevators, where the younger generation is less interested in pursuing traditional family occupations. They also discussed the impact of decreasing enrollments in nursing schools on the education side, leading to increased costs due to reduced supply.
Addressing Job Market Challenges and Solutions
Michael and Steve discussed the challenges and potential solutions in the current job market. They highlighted the frustration felt by leaders and employees, and the difficulties in retaining talent, especially among younger workers. Steve shared his insights from post-pandemic conversations with leaders, noting that many were surprised by the positive business results despite high turnover rates. They both agreed that the traditional model of long-term employment may no longer be realistic or desirable, and that organizations need to adapt their strategies to attract and retain new talent. They also noted that successful companies like Microsoft and Tesla have managed to thrive with high turnover rates by having effective systems in place.
College Football Coaches' Challenges and Solutions
Steve and Michael discussed the challenges faced by college football coaches, particularly in the current transfer portal environment. Steve used the example of Nick Saban to illustrate the difficulties of recruiting and retaining top talent. Michael emphasized the importance of focusing on what is working and being creative in addressing issues. Both agreed on the need for business leaders to adapt to changing circumstances and to leverage their experience to find solutions.
Perspective, Teamwork, and Conflicting Goals
Michael shared a leadership anecdote about Roger Nirenberg, who uses music to illustrate the importance of perspective and teamwork in organizations. He emphasized the need to understand and appreciate different viewpoints within a team. Steve then discussed the concept of conflicting goals within organizations, using a soccer metaphor to explain that not everyone's objectives align, and this can lead to frustration. Both agreed on the importance of flexibility, agility, and openness to new ideas and perspectives.
Employee Engagement, Communication, and Empathy in the Workplace
Steve and Michael emphasized the importance of robust communication and a human-centric approach in the workplace. They discussed the need for regular performance appraisals and creating an organizational structure that promotes open communication and employee autonomy. They also highlighted the significance of maintaining a positive work environment that fosters employee engagement, creativity, and job satisfaction. Lastly, they underscored the unique value of human empathy and connection in the face of increasing automation and AI in the workplace.
LinkedIn Strategies and Connector Role
Steve and Michael discussed their strategies for using LinkedIn effectively. They stressed the importance of building genuine connections and providing value to others on the platform. Michael clarified his role as a connector, aiming to help individuals meet their obligations and goals.
 

Unlocking Success with Emotional Intelligence: A Conversation with Business Psychologist Dr. Robin Hills

Dr. Robin Hills is a business psychologist and the director of ‘E i 4 Change’.A company specializing in emotional intelligence for change in educationaltraining, coaching, and personal development - focused on emotionalintelligence, positive psychology, and neuroscience.
Recognized as the 'International Impact Company of the Year' by Dotcom Magazine in 2024, our work has been acknowledged for its significant global influence.
With the most comprehensive and detailed courses on emotional intelligence, Robin has taught and empowered more than 400,000 people in more than 195 countries.
He is an accomplished author and keynote speaker.
They were awarded “Best Transformative Emotional Intelligence Coach” - of the Year 2024 by The CIO Times and “Men Leaders to Look Up To” by Passion Vista magazine.
In early 2024, Robin was presented with an Honorary Doctorate in Advanced Studies in Psychology in recognition of his contribution to Emotional Intelligence training.Robins website - https://ei4change.com/Ei-Matters - https://ei-matters.com/https://www.facebook.com/EI4Change/https://twitter.com/Ei4Changehttps://www.linkedin.com/company/ei4change/https://www.instagram.com/ei4change/https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCBBxGskYxL0wnRfuyz_wHZA/feed
 
Summary
Emotional Intelligence and AI Integration
Michael and Robin, an emotional intelligence coach and trainer, discussed the integration of emotional intelligence with AI. Robin suggested a fresh perspective on emotional intelligence, emphasizing its complementary aspects to AI. Michael agreed, noting the importance of diverse viewpoints in discussions about AI. They planned to delve deeper into this topic during the show, with Robin offering insights from his experience working with senior leaders worldwide. Robin also shared his upcoming training program in the US.
Emotional Intelligence and AI in the Workplace
Michael expressed concern about the lack of coverage of emotional intelligence (Ei) in AI discussions. Robin then provided a clear definition of Ei as the ability to make good decisions and build authentic relationships by being 'smart' with one's emotions. She also discussed the increasing popularity and potential revolutionary impact of artificial intelligence (AI) in the workplace, but emphasized that this does not mean humans will become redundant. Instead, she stressed the importance of identifying what differentiates humans from machine technology, specifically Ei.
Technology's Impact on Employment and Job Creation
Michael and Robin discussed the impact of technology on employment and job creation. They both agreed that while new technologies may cause initial concern and job displacement, they also create new opportunities and roles. They highlighted examples of this throughout history, including the advent of rideshare services like Uber and Lyft, and the rise of the internet and digital communication. They emphasized the importance of embracing new technologies and being adaptable to change.
AI and Emotional Intelligence Discussion
Michael discussed his positive experiences with using AI in his work, highlighting its efficiency and creativity benefits. However, Robin pointed out that AI and emotional intelligence (EI) cannot function independently of each other, as AI lacks the human capacity for leadership and building emotional connections. Both emphasized the importance of human experience and memory in navigating through life, contrasting it with the programmed responses of AI. They agreed that AI, while useful, should not replace human leadership and relationship building.
AI, Emotional Intelligence, and Organizational Dynamics
Michael and Robin discussed the potential and limitations of AI and emotional intelligence within an organizational context. Michael emphasized the importance of personalizing instructions for AI to function effectively, while Robin highlighted the inherent limitations of AI to understand and adapt to human emotions and nuances. They both agreed that emotional intelligence is essential for navigating the complexities of the future, and Robin proposed looking at an organization as a network of people, including all stakeholders, for a better understanding of its dynamics.
Emotional Intelligence and Artificial Intelligence Limitations
Robin emphasized the importance of emotional intelligence in leadership and asserted that, despite advancements in artificial intelligence, machines would never possess emotional intelligence due to the unique complexity of the human brain. Michael agreed, acknowledging the potential benefits of artificial intelligence but highlighting its limitations in replicating the human brain's complexity. Both agreed that emotional intelligence would remain a crucial factor in human interactions and leadership.
Emotional Intelligence Collaboration and Networking
Michael and Robin discussed Robin's work on emotional intelligence and her website, EiForChange.com, which offers free resources including a book.

Founder Friday: From Burnout to Breakthrough: Enock & Sue Denis’ Journey to Revolutionizing Homecare with AI Innovation

Sue Denis, the co-founder of HomeCare Bosses United® and the visionary behind the groundbreaking CareGrowth AI™. 
Sue's incredible journey from an ICU nurse facing burnout and personal challenges to becoming a successful entrepreneur and AI innovator in the home care industry is a story of resilience, determination, and transformative leadership. 
Her insights and experiences provide valuable lessons in overcoming adversity, entrepreneurship, and the future of homecare.
Her video introduction: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7PUrpM-Ecuk
Sue's Expertise:
Resilience and Transformation: Sue’s personal and professional journey showcases remarkable resilience. From facing the near-loss of her first son and moving across the country to starting a business with limited resources, Sue’s story is a testament to the power of perseverance and determination.
Innovation in Homecare: As the co-founder of HomeCare Bosses United®, Sue has revolutionized the homecare industry by combining her nursing expertise with her entrepreneurial spirit. Her latest venture, CareGrowth AI™, brings cutting-edge AI technology to homecare agencies, helping them streamline operations and improve care quality.
Empowerment and Education: Sue’s commitment to empowering others is evident through her successful education and consulting business. With a 13k-member Facebook group and numerous events, she has helped countless individuals start and grow their own homecare agencies, transforming lives and communities in the process.
Summary
 
 
Care Growth AI Launch and Home Care Improvement
Michael and Enock & Sue discussed the launch of Care Growth AI, a home care operation software designed to enhance the experience of aging at home. Michael shared his interest in the software, highlighting its potential to fill the home care sector void. Enock & Sue, a former nurse, shared that he and his co-founder Sue developed the platform for their home care agency, drawing from their experiences in the healthcare industry. Both expressed a shared interest in improving home care for an aging population and creating a home environment for those receiving care.
 
 
Enock & Sue's Home Care Agency and Software
Enock & Sue shared their observations about elderly patients returning to the hospital due to a lack of support at home. He identified the need for in-home care services and founded a home care agency in 2016. Enock & Sue also highlighted the challenges his agency faced with existing software for home care agencies, which could have been more cohesive and efficient. In response, they developed Care Growth AI software to streamline their operations and improve care for their clients. The ultimate goal of this software is to reduce human errors, save time, and provide better care.
 
 
Leveraging Technology for Home Care Efficiency
Enock, Sue, and Michael discussed the importance of leveraging technology to streamline administrative tasks in in-home care agencies. Michael highlighted the challenges clinicians face, who spend too much time on paperwork and compliance, leaving little time for patient care. Enock & Sue introduced Carego, an AI-powered assistant that automates administrative tasks, freeing up time for caregivers to focus on patients. They agreed that this technology not only improves efficiency but also enhances the quality of patient care.
 
 
Preparing for Aging Population and Home-Based Care
Michael highlighted the importance of preparing for an aging population and the increasing need for home-based care. He emphasized that people heal faster and feel more comfortable at home, suggesting that society needs to improve its advocacy and preparation for this trend. Enock & Sue agreed, pointing out the financial challenges of home care and the need for long-term care insurance. He also noted that many older adults resist help, suggesting that education is necessary to help them understand that assistance enhances their quality of life.
 
 
Home Care Agencies and Technology Improvements
Enock & Sue: More providers at home care agencies ensure caregivers are trained, insured, and adequately supervised, improving safety and productivity. He pointed out the importance of technology in allowing providers to focus on caregiving while operations are streamlined. Michael stressed the need to recruit new people continuously to meet increasing demand, advising against "growing up" to maintain a youthful attitude.
 
 
Elder Care Platform and Collaboration
Michael expressed his appreciation for Enock & Sue's work in elder care, highlighting the importance of their platform. Enock & Sue informed Michael that more information about their work and upcoming training could be found on their website, caregood.ai. Michael agreed to share this information in his show notes and through his network to help promote their online course. Enock & Sue thanked Michael for his support and advocacy, emphasizing the importance of their mission to make home-based care easier for those in need.