Culture as the Ultimate Rust-Proofing: Lessons in Leadership with WD-40's Garry Ridge

Imagine unlocking the secret sauce to a thriving workplace culture. That's exactly what Garry Ridge, chairman emeritus of WD-40 Company, unveils in our latest episode of Real Life Real Leaders. With Garry's remarkable journey from a humble Aussie fax machine to the helm of a global brand, we uncover how the heart of WD-40's success lies in its culture—a culture that makes coming to work feel like contributing to a grander mission, learning, and heading home fulfilled. 

“Culture is a competitive advantage and that we, as leaders, have a real responsibility, and that is to create a place where people go to work every day, they make a contribution to something bigger than themselves, they learn something new, they're protected and they're set free by a compelling set of values, and they go home happy – Garry Ridge

This isn't just about business; it's about fostering joy in families and communities worldwide. This is a a masterclass in nurturing a work environment that is not just a place of employment, but a source of happiness and growth.

Further key points throughout include:

• Learn about Garry Ridge's "crockpot approach" to building a strong corporate culture, which led WD-40 to global success with a 98% employee satisfaction rate.

• Find out how WD-40 maintained its workforce during the pandemic due to a resilient culture.

• Benefit from Dr. Rebecca Homkus's "Survive, Reset, Thrive" strategy for achieving growth during volatile times.

• Understand Garry Ridge's belief that a supportive workplace contributes to happier families and communities, leading to a more joyful world.

• Hear about Garry’s upcoming book “Any Dumb Ass Can Do It”.

“If I can do this, anybody can do it, because I'm consciously incompetent and probably wrong and roughly right in most circumstances.” – Garry Ridge

Real Life Real Leaders is dedicated to exploring the real stories behind some of the world's most outstanding inspirational leaders. Each new episode teaches the highs and lows of building a successful business and uncovers the attributes that make a great leader. 

Resources: 

Get connected socially with Garry Ridge: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garryridge/

https://thelearningmoment.net/

Get connected socially with host Dave Komar:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/davekomar/ 

https://edainc.io/ 

https://www.linkedin.com/showcase/real-life-real-leaders-podcast/ 

This podcast is proudly produced in partnership with podlad.com