Unlocking High Performance

Jason Lauritsen
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Unlocking High Performance is a podcast for leaders who want strong results without burning their people out in the process. Hosted by Jason Lauritsen, the show explores how clarity, alignment, and connection shape performance at work. Jason draws from his work with CEOs, executive teams, and leaders to examine why work so often becomes heavier, slower, and more frustrating than it needs to be and how to fix it. Some episodes are solo reflections. Others are conversations with leaders and practitioners navigating real constraints and consequences. Each conversation looks beyond tactics to understand the leadership and organizational conditions that make performance possible. The podcast focuses on the systems that drive performance, not leadership theory or quick fixes. Listeners will walk away with a clearer understanding of how work actually gets done and how to build environments where people perform at their best.

  1. What the 2026 Global Talent Trends Report Reveals About a Workforce in Crisis with Kate Bravery

    12 HR AGO

    What the 2026 Global Talent Trends Report Reveals About a Workforce in Crisis with Kate Bravery

    Jason Lauritsen sits down with Kate Bravery, Senior Partner and Global Leader of Talent Advisory at Mercer, to dig into the findings from Global Talent Trends report. Now in its 11th year, the study draws on more than 12,000 voices across 24 countries and 16 industries, capturing the perspectives of employee experience, leadership, AI adoption, and the growing pressure on organizations to deliver stronger performance in a workforce that is increasingly depleted and disengaged. At the center of this episode is a hard truth: work is no longer working for a lot of people. Kate shares that only 44% of employees in this year’s study say they are thriving, the lowest level Mercer has seen in more than a decade. At the same time, executives are pushing for faster productivity gains, more aggressive transformation, and deeper AI integration. The tension between those two realities is where this conversation lives, and Kate helps us see it clearly. Key highlights from the conversation include: 👉 Mercer's latest data shows employee thriving has fallen to 44%, the lowest level they’ve seen in more than a decade. 👉 Employees are feeling the strain of pay pressure, slower career growth, and people systems that no longer match how fast work is changing. 👉 Kate explains the “proximity paradox,” where access to AI tools can actually raise anxiety when leaders aren’t helping people understand what changes. 👉 The gap between executive priorities and HR priorities is still there, with leaders pushing for AI-driven performance while HR is still trying to modernize the basics. 👉 Jason and Kate explore how AI could help HR move from slow, backward-looking processes to faster, more responsive support for employees and managers. *** Connect with Kate: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kate-bravery/ Global Talent Trends 2025 Report: https://www.mercer.com/insights/people-strategy/future-of-work/global-talent-trends/ *** JOIN THOUSANDS OF LEADERS WHO ARE HARNESSING THE POWER OF RELATIONSHIPS AT WORK. 📌 Subscribe to our newsletter: https://jasonlauritsen.ck.page/950d3c... Connect with Jason: Website: https://jasonlauritsen.com/ YouTube: youtube.com/@jasonlauritsenvideo LinkedIn: linkedin.com/jasonlauritsen Instagram: instagram.com/jasonlauritsen

    30 min
  2. How to Solve Your Brilliant Jerk Problem

    6 DAYS AGO

    How to Solve Your Brilliant Jerk Problem

    In this straight-talking solo episode of Unlocking High Performance, Jason Lauritsen tackles one of the most difficult leadership challenges CEOs, HR leaders, and managers face: what to do about the “brilliant jerk.” These are the high performers who deliver results on paper but create dysfunction, erode trust, and quietly damage the people around them. Jason explains why tolerating toxic high performers can slow decisions, weaken team dynamics, drive disengagement, and hold entire organizations below their true potential. If you’ve ever felt trapped by someone you think you “can’t afford to lose,” this conversation offers a clearer way forward. Key highlights from the conversation include: 👉 Why “brilliant jerks” are so hard to address, especially when they’re top performers or senior leaders whose results make leaders feel dependent on them 👉 The hidden organizational costs leaders often miss, including executive team dysfunction, slower decision-making, morale damage, disengagement, and the loss of strong people who quietly opt out or leave 👉 Why leaders almost always wait too long to act, and why the most common response after finally making the call is: I wish I hadn’t waited so long 👉 Jason’s practical framework for handling the situation: get specific about the problematic behavior, confront it directly, set clear expectations in writing, define a timeline for change, and make consequences unmistakably clear If you’re leading a team, supporting leaders in HR, or trying to build a healthier performance culture, this episode is a timely reminder that high performance should never come at the expense of your people. JOIN THOUSANDS OF LEADERS WHO ARE HARNESSING THE POWER OF RELATIONSHIPS AT WORK. Subscribe to our newsletter: https://schedule.jasonlauritsen.com/w... -- Connect with Jason Lauritsen: Website: https://jasonlauritsen.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JasonLauritsenVideo LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonlauritsen/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jasonlauritsen/ #UnlockingHighPerformance #JasonLauritsen #Leadership #PeopleLeadership #HRLeadership #WorkplaceCulture #EmployeeExperience #ManagerEffectiveness #OrganizationalHealth

    17 min
  3. Unlocking High Performance Official Trailer

    TRAILER

    Unlocking High Performance Official Trailer

    An introduction to Unlocking High Performance and the conversations shaping leadership, growth, and performance.

    2 min
  4. I'm Back! New Name, Same Mission

    25 MAR

    I'm Back! New Name, Same Mission

    Jason Lauritsen has spent more than two decades helping leaders build organizations where people and performance both thrive. In this special episode, he introduces the next chapter of his podcast, now called Unlocking High Performance, and shares the thinking behind the change, what listeners can expect going forward, and why this work matters more than ever. The relaunch is more than a name change. It is a recommitment to a central idea that Jason has been building toward for his entire career: you do not have to choose between taking care of your people and driving strong results. This episode sets the foundation for everything that follows, and it is worth a listen whether you are new to the show or have been along for the ride from the beginning. Key highlights from the conversation include: 👉Why Jason renamed the show from Check-In with Jason Lauritsen to Unlocking High Performance and what that shift says about the podcast’s sharper mission moving forward 👉 The leadership myth that organizations must choose between high performance and caring for people, and why Jason argues that belief is at the root of burnout culture 👉 A real-world example from Jason’s management experience where doubling down on people led to doubled revenue per employee and lower turnover at the same time 👉 Jason’s core philosophy that performance doesn’t come from pushing people harder, it emerges when leaders create the right conditions for people to thrive If you lead people or support those who do, this episode is a strong starting point. Jason lays out the premise, the promise, and the practical focus of the show in a way that is grounded, honest, and worth your time. This is a podcast built for leaders who are ready to stop choosing between results and people and start building something better. JOIN THOUSANDS OF LEADERS WHO ARE HARNESSING THE POWER OF RELATIONSHIPS AT WORK. Subscribe to our newsletter: https://schedule.jasonlauritsen.com/widget/form/X0TvQvV1hu3kDlyy6fRe -- Connect with Jason Lauritsen: Website: https://jasonlauritsen.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JasonLauritsenVideo LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonlauritsen/ Instagram: https://instagram.com/jasonlauritsen/ -- #UnlockingHighPerformance #Leadership #HRLeaders #EmployeeExperience #WorkplaceCulture #ManagerEffectiveness #PeopleAndPerformance #FutureOfWork #BurnoutPrevention

    4 min
  5. What Gen Z Wants from Work with Bailey Lauritsen

    18/12/2025

    What Gen Z Wants from Work with Bailey Lauritsen

    Join Jason for an insightful, heartfelt conversation with his daughter Bailey, a high school senior and returning guest who brings a fresh, next-generation perspective on work, communication, and the rapidly changing world of careers.   As the year comes to a close, Bailey returns to reflect on her early work experiences, lessons in workplace culture, and what the future holds. As a member of Gen Z looking towards college and preparing for a career in the age of AI, she offers valuable insight into the expectations of tomorrow’s workforce.   Bailey shares her takes on what makes for a good work experience, what she looks for when considering a part-time job (including the "vibe" of the place), and how she and her peers are thinking about their career prospects beyond high school graduation.   Some highlights from Bailey's perspective include: 👉 Prioritize people and communicate consistently; your hardest workers check out long before you notice if you neglect to follow up or show genuine care. 👉 Authentic happiness at work matters; employees can sense when colleagues are “putting on a show” versus truly enjoying their environment. 👉 Candidates evaluate your culture (the “vibes”) from the moment they interact with your organization, make it a two-way street, not just an act for outsiders. 👉 Today’s young workers are practical and pragmatic. They’re weighing their education and career choices against a backdrop of cost, job stability, and AI disruption. 👉 Teach and encourage healthy skepticism: critical thinking is now a survival skill when technology can fabricate reality at scale.   **   JOIN THOUSANDS OF LEADERS WHO ARE HARNESSING THE POWER OF RELATIONSHIPS AT WORK. 📌 Subscribe to our newsletter: https://jasonlauritsen.ck.page/950d3c...   **   Connect with Jason: Website: https://jasonlauritsen.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JasonLauritsenVideo LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonlauritsen/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jasonlauritsen/

    30 min
  6. How Small Actions Foster Big Connection at Work with Shalynne Jackson

    02/12/2025

    How Small Actions Foster Big Connection at Work with Shalynne Jackson

    Join Jason for a thought-provoking episode as he welcomes Shalynne Jackson, Chief Culture and Engagement Officer and CEO of Sonder Strategies. Shalynne is renowned for her commitment to building workplaces where people feel seen, connected, and valued.   In this episode, Jason and Shalynne dive deep into how organizations can foster meaningful human connection at work, especially in times when disconnection and loneliness are all too common. The conversation unpacks actionable strategies for cultivating workplace cultures rooted in trust, psychological safety, and accountability. Whether you’re seeking inspiration or hands-on advice, this discussion is full of practical wisdom for anyone looking to elevate their organization’s employee experience.   Key lessons highlighted in our conversation include: 👉 Mentorship and peer circles are high-impact vehicles for building relationships across departments and roles, fostering trust and growth. 👉 Intentionally connecting people over lunch or informal interactions can give rise to lasting relationships and unexpected support networks. 👉 Connection isn’t proximity. Being physically present doesn’t guarantee meaningful workplace relationships; true connection is built intentionally. 👉 Leaders should ask themselves, “Would I want me as my manager?” Empathy and accountability go hand in hand, shaping how people experience their work. 👉 Privilege and inclusion demand curiosity, humility, and active listening. Leaders can’t just treat others as they wish to be treated, they need to learn how others want to be cared for.   **   Connect with Shalynne: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shalynnejackson/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shalynnejackson/?hl=en Website: https://www.shalynnespeaks.com/   **   JOIN THOUSANDS OF LEADERS WHO ARE HARNESSING THE POWER OF RELATIONSHIPS AT WORK. 📌 Subscribe to our newsletter: https://jasonlauritsen.ck.page/950d3c...   **   Connect with Jason: Website: https://jasonlauritsen.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JasonLauritsenVideo LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonlauritsen/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jasonlauritsen/

    38 min
  7. What You Should Know About Your Gen Z Employees with Tess Brigham

    11/11/2025

    What You Should Know About Your Gen Z Employees with Tess Brigham

    "I'm going to enjoy my life now. If there is no golden goose at the end of this, no pot, there's no money at the end of this rainbow, I'm just going to enjoy my life now." - Tess Brigham speaking about the Gen Z perspective on work   ** Join Jason Lauritsen for an insightful episode featuring Tess Brigham, licensed therapist, certified coach, and TEDx speaker. Tess brings over 20 years of expertise in guiding young people to understand themselves and build fulfilling lives.   In this episode, Jason and Tess dive deep into the realities facing Gen Z in the workplace and at home. If you’re an HR leader seeking practical ways to attract, engage, and retain young talent while fostering a healthier work culture, this conversation is loaded with relevant, actionable advice and thought-provoking perspectives. Discover why understanding Gen Z’s mindset matters and how rethinking your approach can improve organizational success and employee well-being.   Key lessons highlighted in our conversation include: 👉 Start with curiosity over judgment. Many workplace frustrations with young employees come from our own biases and assumptions. Pause. Ask. Listen. 👉 The future of work depends on leaders' role modeling healthy boundaries, emotional intelligence, and a willingness to rethink “the way it’s always been.” 👉 Stop solving, start coaching. For both parents and managers, the best path is asking more questions and letting them wrestle with the answers, rather than swooping in with “advice.” 👉 Gen Z puts mental health and boundaries first because the work “contract” is broken. If we want loyalty and engagement, we have to recognize and support that. 👉 You can’t rely on “what worked for me at that age.” Gen Z’s reality is shaped by economic uncertainty, skyrocketing costs, and social media—completely different contexts than previous generations.   **   Connect with Tess: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tessbrigham/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tess_brigham/ Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/2EuYiwREu0fiQ8hrFwUNFU?si=1ca9799100344f40 Apple Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-gen-mess-with-tess/id1797064230 Website: https://tessbrigham.com/ TEDx Talks: https://youtu.be/2nNEMBsf8e4?si=9ld4lpFhsKEcoxKC **   JOIN THOUSANDS OF LEADERS WHO ARE HARNESSING THE POWER OF RELATIONSHIPS AT WORK. 📌 Subscribe to our newsletter: https://jasonlauritsen.ck.page/950d3c...   **   Connect with Jason: Website: https://jasonlauritsen.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JasonLauritsenVideo LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonlauritsen/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jasonlauritsen/

    42 min
  8. How to Use Silence to be a Better Listener

    06/11/2025

    How to Use Silence to be a Better Listener

    Most people avoid silence, it feels uncomfortable. But what if silence is actually where the most meaningful conversations begin?   In this episode, join Jason as he shares a simple but powerful practice called spacious listening, the art of using silence to build deeper connection, trust, and understanding. You will learn how to: Use silence as a leadership and communication toolListen in a way that helps others feel truly seen and heardCreate space for more honest, human conversations at work If you’ve ever wondered why silence feels so hard, or how to use it to become a better listener and leader, this episode is for you.   Because sometimes, the most powerful thing a leader can do… is say nothing at all. **   JOIN THOUSANDS OF LEADERS WHO ARE HARNESSING THE POWER OF RELATIONSHIPS AT WORK. 📌 Subscribe to our newsletter: https://jasonlauritsen.ck.page/950d3c...   **   Connect with Jason: Website: https://jasonlauritsen.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JasonLauritsenVideo LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonlauritsen/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jasonlauritsen/   #PowerOfSilence #ListeningSkills #Leadership #HumanLeadership #Communication #JasonLauritsen #SpaciousListening #EmotionalIntelligence #MindfulLeadership

    14 min
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Trailer

About

Unlocking High Performance is a podcast for leaders who want strong results without burning their people out in the process. Hosted by Jason Lauritsen, the show explores how clarity, alignment, and connection shape performance at work. Jason draws from his work with CEOs, executive teams, and leaders to examine why work so often becomes heavier, slower, and more frustrating than it needs to be and how to fix it. Some episodes are solo reflections. Others are conversations with leaders and practitioners navigating real constraints and consequences. Each conversation looks beyond tactics to understand the leadership and organizational conditions that make performance possible. The podcast focuses on the systems that drive performance, not leadership theory or quick fixes. Listeners will walk away with a clearer understanding of how work actually gets done and how to build environments where people perform at their best.

Information

  • Creator
    Jason Lauritsen
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    63
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Jason Lauritsen
  • Show Website
    Unlocking High Performance