In this episode, we dive deep into the powerful lessons of leadership, communication, and self-awareness with guest Matt DiGeronimo, a retired Navy submarine lieutenant commander and accomplished business leader. We explore how developing a questioning mindset, embracing small talk to build trust, and focusing on what truly matters can redefine the way we lead teams and navigate high-risk situations.

Timestamps:

• (00:05) - Michael introduces guest and previews key topics.
• (04:09) - Matt shares key leadership lessons from serving on a submarine.
• (05:42) - Importance of building trust through personal connections and small talk.
• (08:45) - Developing a questioning attitude to promote psychological safety.
• (11:58) - Matt explains how he overcame his dislike for small talk.
• (14:44) - Focusing on what matters vs. what's impressive.
• (17:26) - The importance of speaking up.
• (19:22) - Creating environments that encourage speaking up and running impactful drills.
• (25:55) - Leveraging mistakes and learning organization practices.
• (28:02) - Taking off your rank in group conversations to foster openness.
• (33:06) - Matt discusses self-development and aligning personal and professional goals.
• (37:19) - Challenging conventional wisdom as the "average of the past."
• (39:53) - Embracing challenges and “the suck” as part of growth.
• (43:47) - Valuing dissenters and creating space for honest feedback.
• (46:29) - Focusing on what matters rather than what’s impressive.
• (51:44) - Teaching leaders that leading others is a privilege.
• (55:44) - Where to connect with Matt and find his work.

Links and Resources:

• Beyond Platitudes | Matt DiGeronimo | Substack
• Matt DiGeronimo | LinkedIn

Sponsor Links:

• InQuasive: http://www.inquasive.com/
• Humintell: Body Language - Reading People - Humintell
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• International Association of Interviewers: Home (certifiedinterviewer.com)

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