Work, But Make It Human

Jim Mayer

Work, But Make it Human explores the people side of leadership with a focus on emotional intelligence, communication, and culture-building strategies that apply across all industries. Each episode breaks down practical insights for creating healthier, more productive workplaces where people thrive. Whether you're leading a small team or driving change at the organizational level, this podcast equips you with tools to lead with empathy and impact.

  1. Apr 9

    What Got You Here Will Not Get You There | Aron Kolosik

    In this episode, Jim Mayer and Aron Kolosik discuss the evolving landscape of leadership in the manufacturing industry, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, personal sustainability, and the need for a human-centric approach to work. They explore the challenges of traditional leadership models, the impact of always-on expectations, and the loneliness often felt by leaders. The conversation highlights the significance of caring in leadership, the necessity of mental health awareness, and the generational shifts in workplace expectations. Ultimately, they advocate for a more intentional and supportive work environment that fosters growth and well-being. Takeaways Leadership should prioritize mentorship and clarity.Always-on expectations can hinder productivity and creativity.Caring for employees leads to better performance.Loneliness in leadership is a common experience.Personal sustainability is crucial for effective leadership.Investing in leadership development is essential for growth.Mental health awareness is vital in the workplace.Generational differences impact workplace dynamics.Job hopping reflects a lack of support, not a lack of commitment.Breathing techniques can significantly improve mental clarity. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Human-Centric Work01:38 Challenging Traditional Leadership Models02:19 The Ridiculousness of Always-On Expectations05:11 The Loneliness of Leadership08:42 Operational vs. Personal Sustainability09:44 The Importance of Mentorship15:12 Caring as the Foundation of Leadership17:12 Building Capability and Systems18:24 Mental Health and Stress Management22:27 The Cost of Leadership Success25:37 The Importance of Leadership Development29:16 The Skills Gap in Leadership33:14 Generational Perspectives on Work40:32 Living Life to the Fullest46:13 Investing in Leadership and Personal Growth

    49 min

  2. Apr 2

    Why AI Slop Is Destroying Your Brand Before Buyers Even Find You | Alex Cairns

    In this conversation, Jim Mayer and Alex Cairns explore the complexities of B2B marketing, focusing on how to make the buying process more human. They discuss the misconceptions surrounding buyer behavior, the evolution of buyer expectations, and the importance of emotional connections in decision-making. Alex introduces his Eight Moves framework, designed to simplify marketing strategies for complex industries, while also addressing the overwhelming number of marketing frameworks available today. The discussion highlights the critical role of trust in digital interactions and the impact of AI on traditional marketing practices. Ultimately, they emphasize the need for alignment between marketing and sales to create a more effective and human-centered buying experience. Takeaways Real people navigate high-stakes, complex buying decisions.The world of work includes customers and suppliers, not just employees.Buyers today want credibility and proof, not just sales pitches.The buyer journey has transformed dramatically in recent years.Establishing trust digitally is more challenging than in-person interactions.Emotional connections are undervalued in B2B marketing.The Eight Moves framework helps simplify complex marketing strategies.There is an overwhelming number of marketing frameworks available.Buyers complete a significant portion of their journey before contacting sales.AI can complicate the marketing landscape if not used thoughtfully. Chapters 00:00 Navigating Complex B2B Decisions04:21 Misconceptions in Buyer Behavior08:17 Patterns in Buyer Behavior11:36 The Emotional Aspect of B2B Marketing13:37 The Eight Moves Framework15:58 Overwhelmed by Options19:16 Building Digital Trust22:59 The Buyer Journey25:17 Centering Humanity in Marketing29:01 AI's Impact on B2B Marketing35:15 Redesigning B2B Marketing for Humanity37:15 Aligning Marketing and Sales

    40 min

  3. Mar 26

    Is Burnout Real or Are We Using the Wrong Word? | Jennifer Watson

    In this episode of "Work But Make It Human," host Jim Mayer welcomes Jennifer Watson, a seasoned life coach and entrepreneur, to discuss the pressing issues of burnout and stress in the workplace. Jennifer emphasizes the importance of recognizing that what many perceive as burnout may actually be a distortion of stress, stemming from a lack of tools to manage workplace challenges. She shares her journey from running a successful physical therapy practice to focusing on executive coaching, highlighting the need for leaders to prioritize human connection and emotional intelligence in their teams. Jennifer outlines her audacious goal of supporting one million leaders by providing them with the necessary tools to navigate the complexities of modern work environments. She advocates for a shift in workplace policies, particularly around vacation time and work hours, arguing that the traditional nine-to-five model is outdated and detrimental to employee well-being. Throughout the conversation, she offers practical insights on how leaders can foster a healthier work culture by being more attuned to their own emotional states and those of their teams, ultimately leading to improved productivity and job satisfaction. Takeaways Burnout is often a distortion of stress, not the actual condition.Leaders need to prioritize emotional intelligence to better support their teams.Workplace policies should evolve beyond the traditional nine-to-five model.Taking breaks and allowing for vacation time can enhance productivity.Self-awareness is crucial for leaders to effectively manage their own stress and that of their teams. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Jennifer Watson01:48 Setting Audacious Goals for 202605:14 Ridiculous Workplace Policies09:28 Understanding Burnout vs. Distortion Under Stress17:45 Emotional Intelligence in Leadership27:00 Trusting Your Body and Emotions

    35 min

  4. Mar 19

    People Do What They're Incentivized to Do | Dr. Chuck DeBettignies

    In this episode of 'Work But Make It Human', host Jim Mayer and Dr. Chuck DeBettignies discuss the complexities of incentive systems in the workplace, particularly focusing on gainsharing. They explore how aligning incentives with company performance can enhance employee motivation and productivity, while also addressing the importance of clear communication and specificity in management. The conversation delves into the balance between profitability and employee experience, the role of technology in manufacturing, and the significance of building trust through transparency. Dr. Chuck shares insights on creating a culture of care and the necessity of setting realistic targets for gainsharing to be effective. The episode concludes with practical advice for companies looking to implement gainsharing and improve workplace dynamics. Takeaways Incentive systems can either help or harm employee motivation.Specificity in communication is crucial for effective management.Gainsharing aligns employee rewards with overall company performance.Building trust requires transparency and visibility in actions.Employees want to feel part of something bigger than themselves.Setting realistic targets is essential for successful gainsharing.Technology can enhance productivity and employee engagement.A culture of care can be fostered through shared goals.Employees are more motivated when they see the impact of their work.Companies often underestimate their potential for alignment. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Incentive Systems03:05 Understanding Gainsharing06:46 The Importance of Specificity in Communication10:08 Balancing Profitability and Employee Experience12:24 Management Attitudes Towards Gainsharing16:06 Creating a Sense of Belonging in the Workplace18:45 Addressing Employee Concerns and Feedback20:25 Setting Realistic Targets for Gainsharing22:05 The Importance of Rewards in Business24:31 Leveraging Technology for Manufacturing Success27:06 Building Trust Through Visibility31:09 Navigating Inflation with Gainsharing39:07 Aligning Rewards with Company Goals

    42 min

  5. Mar 12

    Don't Hire a Coach Who Isn't Being Coached | Amos Balongo

    In this conversation, Jim Mayer and Amos Balongo explore the critical role of effective communication in leadership. They discuss the common pitfalls leaders face when their messages do not resonate with their teams, the importance of cultural sensitivity, and the need for continuous personal growth. Amos shares insights from his experiences working with leaders across various industries and cultures, emphasizing the necessity of authenticity and adaptability in communication. The discussion also highlights the generational shifts in workplace communication and the importance of being proactive in leadership to avoid blindsiding employees with unexpected changes. Takeaways Leaders often fail due to miscommunication.Effective communication requires understanding the audience.Cultural sensitivity is crucial in global communication.Assumed communication can lead to misunderstandings.Continuous growth is essential for effective leadership.Authenticity builds trust in leadership.Communication should be simplified for clarity.Leaders must prepare their teams for changes.Fluid organizational culture adapts to new challenges.Empathy in communication fosters better team dynamics. Chapters 00:00 The Communication Gap in Leadership09:06 Understanding Communication Complexities17:33 Cultural Sensitivity in Communication26:10 Navigating Leadership Challenges34:36 The Importance of Continuous Growth

    38 min

  6. Mar 5

    The Impact of Work on Identity and Worth w/ George Pesansky

    In this conversation, Jim Mayer and George Pesansky explore the complexities of work, leadership, and employee engagement. They discuss the importance of human-centered leadership, the role of frontline leaders, and the impact of efficiency metrics on workplace culture. George shares insights from his extensive experience coaching professionals across the globe, emphasizing the need for empathy and respect in leadership. The discussion also touches on the challenges faced by middle managers and the significance of employee experience in driving engagement and performance. Takeaways Work impacts our identity and sense of worth.Talent, not time, is crucial for changing outcomes.Frontline leadership is often overlooked but vital.High performers excel in empathy and support.Efficiency metrics can undermine human-centered leadership.Engagement is a leading indicator of workplace health.AI should be a tool, not a replacement for human interaction.Good leaders surround themselves with diverse talents.Chasing experiences can lead to greater success than money.Transformative leadership is rooted in respect and understanding. Chapters 00:00 The Human Element in Work04:54 Global Insights on Leadership09:22 The Role of High Performers13:53 Efficiency vs. Human-Centered Leadership18:27 The Importance of Employee Experience23:10 Engagement as a Leading Indicator27:39 Navigating the Challenges of Middle Management32:20 Transformative Leadership and Coaching36:58 The Path to Operational Excellence41:20 Final Thoughts on Leadership and Experience

    48 min

  7. Feb 26

    From Funnels to Foundations, How We Rethink Workplace Culture w/ Ian Wilson

    In this conversation, Jim Mayer and Ian Wilson explore the concept of workplace culture, emphasizing the need to shift from traditional conversion funnels to a more human-centered approach. They discuss the importance of understanding culture as a flowing entity that starts from purpose and values, and how it can be diagnosed and improved. The discussion highlights the courage required for cultural change, the significance of leadership in fostering a healthy culture, and the practical steps leaders can take to create a supportive environment for their teams. Takeaways Every company claims people are their greatest asset.The culture funnel is a metaphor for understanding workplace dynamics.Culture should flow from purpose to values to behavior.Leadership must engage with culture at all levels.Courage is essential for addressing cultural issues.The keystone metaphor emphasizes foundational strength in culture.Diagnosing cultural health requires looking at behaviors and attitudes.Leaders should stop pushing and start holding up their teams.Resistance to cultural change often stems from fear and insecurity.Cultural change has a tangible ROI that impacts employee satisfaction. Chapters 00:00 The Culture Funnel: A New Perspective02:36 Rethinking Culture: From Funnels to Foundations04:59 The Flow of Culture: Upward and Outward08:33 The Cost of Conversion Metrics11:26 Courage in Cultural Change16:31 The Keystone Concept: Building Strong Foundations23:26 Diagnosing Cultural Health27:49 Pushing vs. Holding: Leadership Strategies30:44 Breaking Through Resistance39:08 The ROI of Cultural Change

    45 min

  8. Feb 19

    Transforming Teams through Humor w/ Kevin Hubschmann

    In this episode of 'Work But Make It Human', Jim Mayer and Kevin Hubschmann discuss the significance of laughter and play in workplace culture. They explore how humor can break down barriers, foster connections, and create a psychologically safe environment for employees. Kevin shares insights from his experiences in various work cultures, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and leadership in shaping a positive work environment. The conversation also touches on the pitfalls of traditional team-building exercises and the need for innovative approaches to employee engagement. Takeaways Laughter is essential for workplace culture.Creating a positive work environment requires authenticity.Psychological safety allows employees to be themselves.Leadership plays a crucial role in shaping culture.Team-building exercises should foster genuine connections.Avoid polling teams for decisions on engagement activities.Embrace the five to nine personality at work.Comedy can enhance professional development.Creating memories is key to team bonding.Eliminate negative language in workplace conversations. Chapters 00:00 The Importance of Laughter in the Workplace03:37 Creating a Positive Work Culture08:01 Transforming Team Dynamics through Humor11:08 Identifying Cultural Issues in Teams16:12 Ensuring Psychological Safety in Improv18:39 The Role of Leadership in Team Engagement23:23 Understanding Session Dynamics24:28 The Impact of Team Building Exercises30:58 Exploring the Nine to Five vs. Five to Nine Personalities39:18 Creating Authentic Work Environments44:20 Making Work More Human

    46 min
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About

Work, But Make it Human explores the people side of leadership with a focus on emotional intelligence, communication, and culture-building strategies that apply across all industries. Each episode breaks down practical insights for creating healthier, more productive workplaces where people thrive. Whether you're leading a small team or driving change at the organizational level, this podcast equips you with tools to lead with empathy and impact.

Information

  • Creator
    Jim Mayer
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    14
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2025 Jim Mayer
  • Show Website
    Work, But Make It Human