Dismantling Dysfunction Anne Dranitsaris & Heather Dranitsaris-Hilliard

These days it's increasingly common to hear leaders describe themselves as "a little ADHD," citing high energy and impulsive decisions as both a strength and a challenge in their professional lives. The same traits, often seen in some of the most successful organizational leaders, drive innovation and quick decision-making but can also lead to chaos, confusion, and increased insecurity among team members.
In this episode, we’ll help listeners understand the complexities of chaotic leadership and its impact on accountability, exploring how the dynamic interplay between resilience, adaptability, and the need for structure and consistency affects organizational effectiveness. Through stories and our own experiences—like executives who pivot strategies with alarming frequency, and project leads struggling with maintaining a steady course—we will discuss the consequences this leadership style poses on the stability of the business.
Tune in to gain practical advice on how to identify and address chaotic leadership within your organization. From fostering self-awareness among leaders to implementing strategies for clarity and communication, we'll provide actionable insights to help you navigate the challenges and maximize the potential of your team. Don't miss out on this opportunity to unlock the secrets to fostering accountability and driving success in your workplace.
If you want to know more about leading effectively, check out our book, "So, You Think You Can Lead?": www.amazon.ca/dp/B07QMVKNSV/
Register for our ‘Why Leaders Avoid Fostering Accountability’ webinar where we delve into 4 mistakes that contribute to a lack of accountability in your organization and what you can do about it: www.leadingwithauthority.com/accountability  
IN THIS EPISODE:
[01:25] Episode Introduction
[02:50] What Is a Chaotic Leader?
[09:05] Why Chaotic Leaders Thrive in Uncertainty?
[18:40] Consequences of Chaotic Leadership
[24:48] Episode Gem
[27:14] Episode Wrap Up
KEY TAKEAWAYS
Certain personality types or brain organizations are prone to chaotic leadership behaviors. Rational Intuitive brain types like Performers and Visionaries (ENTP and INTJ types) are known for their innovative ideas and love for exploring possibilities, which can lead to a lack of structure and follow-through, which might appear chaotic or inconsistent in a leadership role. Chaotic leadership creates an environment where team members are left guessing about priorities and expectations. It can lead to missed deadlines, redundant work, and a general sense of disorganization, affecting the team's ability to deliver results effectively. Team members may find themselves constantly adjusting to new directives, unable to complete tasks, or pursuing long-term goals due to the changing landscape.  Leaders have a responsibility to develop and model effective leadership and interpersonal behaviors. This means tolerating frustration and delayed gratification, making decisions thoughtfully, communicating effectively, and managing one's emotions and impulses in a way that positively influences the organization and its members. Whether you're a seasoned leader or a new manager, join us in this enlightening Accountability Blockers series on the Dismantling Dysfunction Podcast as we pull back the curtain on what's really going on. Remember, if you need help dealing with dysfunctions at work or in your personal life, reach out to us.

Have you ever noticed how some teams don't hit their targets, despite having leaders who seem really supportive and caring? Or maybe you've seen situations where everyone seems happy, but the actual work results just aren't there? If these situations sound familiar, you're not alone, and we've got just the topic for you in our newest podcast episode - Unseen Barriers to Accountability Caused by Over-Nurturing Leaders.
In this episode, we're taking a close look at a trend where leaders, in their effort to avoid conflict and keep everyone (including themselves) comfortable, might actually be holding their teams back from achieving their best. We'll talk about what happens when leaders focus more on their team’s feelings, as well as being liked and avoiding tough conversations, rather than on setting clear goals and expectations.
Join us as we discuss real-life examples and share insights on how this well-intentioned approach can lead to a workplace where accountability is lost, and high performance is the exception, not the norm. This conversation is crucial for anyone who wants to understand the delicate balance between supporting and enabling their team.
Tune in to get practical advice on how leaders can foster an environment that values growth and accountability while still being supportive. Whether you're a leader yourself or part of a team, this episode will offer valuable perspectives on improving workplace dynamics and achieving better results.
If you want to know more about leading effectively, check out our book, "So, You Think You Can Lead?": https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B07QMVKNSV/
Register for our ‘Why Leaders Avoid Fostering Accountability’ webinar where we delve into 4 mistakes that contribute to a lack of accountability in your organization and what you can do about it: https://www.leadingwithauthority.com/accountability
IN THIS EPISODE:
[01:39] Episode Introduction
[03:06] What Is an Over-Nuturing Leader?
[14:52] Why Do Leaders Over-Nuture?
[18:03] Consequences of Over-Nurturing Leadership
[30:39] Episode Gem
[33:36] Episode Wrap Up
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
·       Over-nurturing leadership can inadvertently hinder accountability and excellence within teams by prioritizing emotional comfort over performance. It creates an environment where subjective feelings significantly influence decision-making processes, often at the expense of objective analysis and professional accountability. This approach may lead to a culture of mediocrity where high performers feel demotivated.
·       Leaders may adopt an over-nurturing approach due to a lack of confidence in handling difficult conversations, unresolved emotional needs, or a misunderstanding of what true support entails. Without proper leadership training, these leaders may default to what feels most comfortable or familiar to them.
·       Striking a balance between empathy and accountability is essential for effective leadership. Leaders need to provide clear expectations, offer direct and honest feedback, and cultivate an environment that values constructive criticism while still considering the emotional well-being of their team members.
·      Whether you're a seasoned leader or a new manager, join us in this enlightening Accountability Blockers series on the Dismantling Dysfunction Podcast as we pull back the curtain on what's really going on. Remember, if you need help dealing with dysfunctions at work or in your personal life, reach out to us.

Imagine your team is on a tight deadline, but when you reach out to your leader for crucial feedback, they're nowhere to be found. Their office is empty, their Teams status says 'Do Not Disturb,' and there's no response to emails, DMs, or Messenger. This scenario is all too familiar for many, reflecting a leadership gap where guidance and support are needed the most. In today's episode, we talk about the challenges posed by leaders who disappear, leaving their teams to navigate obstacles without any direction.
During the podcast, we explore the impact of leaders who disappear on accountability, productivity, and team morale. We also address the issue of why some leaders withdraw during critical moments, avoiding decisions, feedback, and conflicts, leaving frustrated peers and direct reports in their wake.  
Our discussion includes strategies for identifying and addressing the issue of disappearing leaders. Understanding the reasons behind this behavior is the first step. We also consider measures to improve leadership presence and accountability, emphasizing the importance of communication and clear expectations.
Listeners will find relatable experiences and practical advice in this episode. From real-life examples of leadership absence and its effect on team performance to actionable solutions for fostering engaged and present leadership, we cover the essentials for anyone facing this challenge.
Join us as we tackle how to turn absent leaders into engaged, accountable figures who drive team success and maintain high morale. This conversation is a must-listen for anyone seeking to bridge the leadership gap and promote a culture of accountability within their teams.
If you want to know more about leading effectively, check out our book, "So, You Think You Can Lead?": https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B07QMVKNSV/
IN THIS EPISODE:
[00:59] Episode Introduction [01:38] What Is a Disappearing Leader? [06:52] Why Do Leaders Disappear? [20:39] Consequences of Disappearing Leaders [29:07] Episode Gem [32:13] Episode Wrap Up KEY TAKEAWAYS: 
Disappearing leadership behavior is characterized by a pattern of absence when their presence is most needed, be it in decision-making, conflict resolution, or providing essential support to their team. Because it isn't identified as an issue, it isn't dealt with. Instead, employees will talk about their leader as "so busy" or "always in meetings," excusing this dysfunctional behavior instead of getting help to address it. Disappearing leaders might not necessarily be neglecting all their duties; instead, they selectively withdraw from situations that require active engagement, leadership visibility, or confrontational management. This selective absence can sometimes be misinterpreted as a hands-off management style, allowing the behavior to persist without being addressed. Some leaders use this coping strategy because they lack the necessary training in handling the interpersonal aspects of leadership, leading them to retreat instead of confronting challenges. The absence of proper training in issue resolution and team management leaves these leaders ill-equipped to handle difficult situations. Whether you're a seasoned leader or a new manager, join us in this enlightening Accountability Blockers series on the Dismantling Dysfunction Podcast as we pull back the curtain on what's really going on. Remember, if you need help dealing with dysfunctions at work or in your personal life, reach out to us. Register below for our upcoming exclusive webinar, Why Leaders Avoid Fostering Accountability, where we delve into 4 mistakes that contribute to a lack of accountability in your organization and what you can do about it. Link: https://www.leadingwithauthority.com/accountability 

Picture this: you step into your workplace, a space where you spend most of your waking hours, only to face subtle threats, overt hostility, or being outright ignored by your leader. Instead of feeling supported, you have a leader who resorts to bullying behavior to either make themselves look good or to get things done.  
While some leaders believe behaviors like yelling and dressing you down for a minor mistake are a sign of strength, more often, it's about control and insecurity. So why does this happen, and why is it normal in many organizations? Usually, it's because of a lack of leadership development and emotional intelligence and because the culture allows it. When they don't know how to consciously manage performance, they overpower, thinking it's going to motivate. 
And the impact it has on accountability is measurable. Instead of motivating, it backfires, and this type of leadership behavior causes employees to shut down, not level up. Other effects – increased stress, anxiety, reduced job satisfaction, and a significant hit to both morale and productivity in the workplace negatively impact productivity, accountability, reduced innovation, and elevated staff turnover.
In this episode, we explore the impact of bullying leaders on accountability. In addition to showing some of the ways bullying occurs, we'll provide insight into the reasons behind some leaders' unintentional use of bullying behaviors.  
Join us in this episode in the series on accountability so that bullying and other dysfunctional leadership behaviors don't become 'normalized' in your organization. Changing your approach to leadership can revolutionize your and your employees' work experiences. Don't miss out on this crucial conversation!
If you want to know more about leading effectively, check out our book, "So, You Think You Can Lead?": https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B07QMVKNSV/
IN THIS EPISODE:
[01:58] Episode Introduction [03:12] Why Do Leaders Bully? [05:19] How Does Bullying Show Up? [36:08] The Negative Impact of Bullying [38:14] Episode Gem [42:05] Episode Wrap Up KEY TAKEAWAYS:
      Employees subjected to bullying endure emotional turmoil, including stress, anxiety, and depression, leading to decreased job satisfaction, engagement, productivity, and increased absenteeism, as well as potential physical health issues. Bullying by leaders significantly impedes accountability.        Leaders might resort to bullying due to a desire for absolute control, an inability to handle opposition or criticism constructively, or as a response to their own internal pressures and stress. Such behavior can create a culture of fear where employees are more focused on avoiding negative outcomes than on contributing positively       A culture of bullying can lead to high staff turnover, with skilled employees leaving to escape the toxic environment. This turnover not only disrupts workflow and continuity but also places a strain on resources due to the constant need for recruitment and training of new employees. And the reputation of the organization can suffer, making it harder to attract top talent.       Whether you're a seasoned leader or a new manager, join us in this enlightening Accountability Blockers series on the Dismantling Dysfunction Podcast as we pull back the curtain on what's really going on. Remember, if you need help dealing with dysfunctions at work or in your personal life, reach out to us.

Have you ever seen a spark of creativity extinguished by a single dismissive remark from a leader? If so, you're not alone. In this episode of Dismantling Dysfunction, we talk about the unconscious shaming done by leaders and peers and reveal how this pervasive issue chips away at team morale and damages a culture of accountability. Imagine the chilling effect when a team member's bright idea is met with a "That's been tried before. Didn't you do your homework?" The room falls silent, the employee's spirit deflates, and a wave of discomfort spreads through the team.
Join us as we discuss the subtle ways leaders, often unknowingly, demoralize their teams. We explore how this is not about intentional harm but about often unexamined behaviors that go unaddressed. We uncover the effects of thoughtless comments and how these can create a culture of fear and silence. This conversation isn't just about pointing out the problem; it's about understanding the profound impact of our words and actions in leadership roles and how we can use empathetic communication to motivate our teams.
Tune in to this episode to hear all about the complexities of unconscious shaming in leadership. We offer a unique perspective, blending stories with strategies for change, guiding both leaders and team members toward creating a more positive and accountable work environment. Tune in to learn how to recognize these patterns, the importance of emotional intelligence in leadership, and how nurturing the culture of accountability can transform team dynamics. Don't miss this crucial conversation—it's a game-changer for anyone committed to building a healthier, more collaborative workplace culture!
If you want to know more about leading effectively, check out our book, "So, You Think You Can Lead?": https://www.amazon.ca/dp/B07QMVKNSV/
IN THIS EPISODE:
●      [01:33] Episode Introduction
●      [02:50] What Is Unintentional Shaming?
●      [08:01] Effects of Unintentional Shaming
●      [18:59] Why Leaders Unintentionally Shame Employees
●      [27:54] Episode Gem
●      [31:07] Episode Wrap Up
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
●      Many organizations face challenges to employee accountability due to leaders who shame their employees unknowingly. This isn't about intentional cruelty but rather subtle behaviors and language that undermine individual and team morale. It's not like they set out to hurt people with their behavior; for most of them, it's an unconscious self-protective strategy.
●      Some leaders believe that shaming employees can be a motivating force, not realizing the negative impact it can have on morale and productivity. This approach stems from a misunderstanding of what truly motivates individuals. Rather than fostering motivation, it instills fear, reduces self-esteem, and creates mistrust and hostility.
●      Shaming is often a defense mechanism used to mask personal insecurities and cope with stress. Feeling uncertain about their leadership capabilities, leaders may unconsciously project these feelings onto their employees. This projection can manifest as shaming or belittling behavior, where the leader deflects attention from their insecurities by focusing on the perceived shortcomings of their team members.
●      Whether you're a seasoned leader or a new manager, join us in this enlightening Accountability Blockers series on the Dismantling Dysfunction Podcast as we pull back the curtain on what's really going on. Remember, if you need help dealing with dysfunctions at work or in your personal life, reach out to us.

In the latest episode of "Dismantling Dysfunction," we delve into the significant impact of narcissistic leadership on workplace accountability. We highlight the unique challenges posed by leaders who exhibit narcissistic traits such as a grandiose sense of self-importance, a constant need for admiration, and a lack of empathy towards others. The discussion underscores how these characteristics lead to a toxic work environment, where credit hoarding, denial of mistakes, and gaslighting are prevalent.
A key focus of the episode is the detrimental effect these leadership styles have on organizational culture. Narcissistic leaders often create a culture of blame and secrecy, hampering open communication and effective decision-making. This atmosphere not only erodes trust within the team but also hinders the organization's overall progress and adaptability. The hosts emphasize the necessity for transparent and empathetic leadership, which is crucial for fostering a positive and productive work environment.
Tune in to find out practical strategies to manage and mitigate the challenges posed by narcissistic leaders. Learn the importance of maintaining consistent standards of accountability and not taking the behavior of such leaders personally. By promoting alignment with stated goals and behaviors, organizations can effectively counteract the negative impact of narcissistic leadership, ensuring a healthier, more accountable workplace culture. The episode serves as a valuable resource for leaders and professionals seeking to navigate and transform challenging leadership dynamics and blockers to accountability in their organizations.
If you want to know more about leading effectively, check out our book, "So, You Think You Can Lead?": www.amazon.ca/dp/B07QMVKNSV/ 
IN THIS EPISODE:
●      [00:00] Episode Introduction
●       [03:42] Narcissistic Leadership Traits
●      [09:00] Challenges to Accountability
●      [22:45] Episode Gem
●      [26:49] Episode Wrap Up
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
●      Narcissistic leaders are characterized by their charismatic yet self-centered nature, significantly impacting workplace dynamics. They are a significant accountability blocker as their behavior is often marked by a lack of empathy, a tendency to hoard credit, a propensity for denying mistakes, and engaging in gaslighting behaviors.
●      Narcissistic leadership behaviors contribute to the creation of toxic work environments, erode trust among team members, and hinder effective decision-making. These leaders frequently set unrealistic expectations for their teams, leading to employee burnout and a decline in productivity and performance.
●      Practical strategies for managing narcissistic leaders are offered, highlighting the importance of adhering to consistent standards of accountability and advising against taking the behavior of such leaders personally. The need for alignment with stated goals and behaviors as a key strategy to counteract the problematic tendencies of narcissistic leaders is emphasized.
●      Whether you're a seasoned leader or a new manager, join us in this insightful episode on how Narcissistic Leaders block Accountability on the Dismantling Dysfunction Podcast and what you can do about it. Remember, if you need help dealing with dysfunctions at work or in your personal life, reach out to us.