"We've got to be learn-it-alls, not know-it-alls." This week Justin Barksdale, CSP, joins Dr. Martin and James to discuss professional development for safety professionals. Justin shares insights from his new ebook "The Safety Pro's Edge" on building professional presence, influence, and connection skills that safety leaders need to succeed. INSIDE THE EPISODE: ⚠️ Safety is a core value, not a priority. Priorities change, but core values don't. Safety professionals must understand their role in supporting business profitability while protecting people. ⚠️ Be a learn-it-all, not a know-it-all. Get your boots dirty, work alongside your team, and ask questions. Trust and credibility come from being willing to do the work. ⚠️ Everyone communicates, few connect. Safety is more about social skills, sociology, and psychology than regulations. Influence comes from connection, not just communication. ABOUT OUR GUEST: Justin Barksdale, CSP is the CEO & Founder of Barksdale Safety Solutions, LLC and Barksdale Leadership Solutions. He holds a Bachelor's degree in Occupational Safety, Health, and Environment from Southeastern Louisiana University and works with organizations across chemical manufacturing, electric power, and healthcare to strengthen safety and improve operational performance. Justin helps build leaders people want to follow, and cultures people never want to leave. As a Certified Safety Professional and executive leadership coach, he partners with business owners, plant managers, and executive teams to align leadership, culture, and safety strategy. Through coaching, keynote speaking, and strategic consulting, Justin empowers leaders to shape culture intentionally rather than leaving it to chance. RESOURCES: The Safety Pro's Edge Barksdale Safety Solutions Barksdale Leadership Solutions John Maxwell: Everyone Communicates, Few Connect ABOUT THE RISK MATRIX PODCAST Buckle up, safety pros! The Risk Matrix brings you a weekly podcast masterclass in risk management, hosted by two industry titans: Dr. L.F. Martin: 32-year veteran, Board of Global EHS Credentialing Impact Award winner James Junkin: Trainer of 40,000+ safety pros, ASSP's 2024 Safety Professional of the Year They're tackling the topics that keep safety managers up at night featuring guests from regulatory bodies to safety directors and everything in between. Every Tuesday: The tough conversations safety managers need to have. Critical insights from safety experts. Real-world strategies. Actionable solutions. The Risk Matrix Podcast is powered by Veriforce: Bringing workers home safe from high-hazard jobs. Learn more at www.veriforce.com
