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Building Better Managers: Daily Summaries Delivered
by New Level Work
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- Jan 6, 202615 min
The Manager as Coach: How to Use Coaching Conversations to Develop Your Team | Ep. #129
In this episode of Building Better Managers, produced by New Level Work, we explore one of the most high-leverage skills a manager can develop: coaching. Coaching isn't about having all the answers—it's about helping your team find their own. By learning how to ask powerful questions, guide problem-solving, and create an environment of trust, you can turn everyday interactions into meaningful development moments. Using the GROW model (Goal, Reality, Options, Will), we walk through how to structure effective coaching conversations and shift from being a task manager to a true people leader. You'll learn: ✅ What coaching actually is (and isn't) ✅ Why coaching is a leadership skill that pays dividends across performance, engagement, and growth ✅ How to apply the GROW model to any conversation ✅ Practical tools to lead with curiosity instead of control ✅ How coaching builds accountability and trust on your team This episode comes with a free resource: 🎁 Download the Coaching Conversation Action Guide 📥 Visit newlevelwork.com to get instant access
- Nov 18, 202533 min
Difficult Conversations Planner: How to Prepare, Deliver & Follow Up Like a Pro | Ep. #128
In this episode of Building Better Managers, produced by New Level Work, we dive into one of the most stressful and avoided parts of leadership: the difficult conversation. Whether you're giving tough feedback to a direct report, navigating a peer conflict, or even managing up, these high-stakes dialogs can easily go off the rails. But they don't have to. We break down a practical two-part planning system to help you move from confrontation to collaboration—without losing your cool. You'll learn: ✔️ Why 90% of your success is determined before you say a word ✔️ A 7-step internal audit to manage your emotions and clarify your goals ✔️ How to structure your message using the SBI model (Situation, Behavior, Impact) ✔️ The art of firm, neutral delivery—without judgment or heat ✔️ How to collaborate on real solutions and lock in accountability ✔️ Tips for staying focused when the conversation gets derailed This isn't just theory—it's a full blueprint for turning high-anxiety moments into high-impact leadership. Learn more For coaching programs, leadership training, or AI-enhanced tools to support your managers, visit newlevelwork.com Like what you hear? Rate and review us at: https://www.newlevelwork.com/review 🎧 For more episodes: https://www.newlevelwork.com/category/podcast
- Nov 4, 202515 min
Mastering One-on-One Meetings: The Manager's Most Underrated Superpower | Ep. #127
In this episode of Building Better Managers, produced by New Level Work, we explore one of the most underrated yet high-impact tools in a manager's toolkit: the one-on-one meeting. While many treat one-on-ones as routine check-ins or status updates, top-performing managers know they're so much more. When done right, one-on-ones are a strategic space to build trust, drive clarity, and accelerate development. We'll share practical strategies, mindset shifts, and real-world examples to help you turn your next one-on-one into a moment of meaningful connection and growth. Key Takeaways Why so many managers misuse or underuse one-on-ones The mindset shift from task-focused to person-focused Simple structures for high-impact conversations What great managers do to build trust, clarity, and accountability Mistakes to avoid (and what to do instead) Learn More For coaching programs, leadership training, or AI-enhanced tools to support your managers, visit newlevelwork.com Like what you hear? One of the best ways to support us is to leave a 5-star review! Just head to: https://www.newlevelwork.com/review For more episodes and resources, visit the New Level Work podcast hub: https://www.newlevelwork.com/category/podcast
- Oct 21, 202523 min
The Leadership Power of Listening: How Enhanced Listening Skills Can Transform Your Team | Ep. #126
In this episode of Building Better Managers, produced by New Level Work, we dive into one of the most underestimated leadership superpowers: listening. At a time when hybrid work, constant pings, and AI overload are stealing our attention, truly listening—with focus, curiosity, and empathy—has become a lost art. But it doesn't have to be. We explore the key techniques and mindset shifts from New Level Work's "Listening Skills Enhanced" training to help managers lead with greater clarity, compassion, and confidence. Whether you're heading into a tough 1:1, navigating team conflict, or just want to create more trust, this episode gives you the tools to transform the way you listen—and lead. Key Takeaways Listening is an active leadership skill—not a passive one. The way you listen shapes your team's culture and performance. Don't multitask—your attention is your most valuable currency. Curiosity and silence are powerful tools for deeper understanding. Better listening improves decision-making and strengthens trust. Learn More: For leadership coaching, development programs, or AI-enhanced learning tools to support your managers, visit newlevelwork.com. Like what you hear? Do you enjoy our show? One of the best ways to help us out is leave a 5-star review on your platform of choice! It's easy - just go here: https://www.newlevelwork.com/review For more information, please visit the New Level Work website. https://www.newlevelwork.com/category/podcast
- Oct 14, 202514 min
Mastering Feedback with the SBI Model: A Framework for Growth and Trust | Ep #125
In this episode of Building Better Managers, we explore one of the most essential tools in every leader's toolkit: giving effective feedback. We introduce the SBI Model — Situation, Behavior, Impact, a practical, repeatable framework adapted from the Center for Creative Leadership. Whether you're delivering constructive feedback or reinforcing great work, SBI helps managers communicate with clarity, build trust, and foster real growth. Through examples, breakdowns, and practical coaching tips, this episode guides leaders in creating feedback conversations that are consistent, specific, and authentic — the foundation of high-performing teams. Key Takeaways: Feedback is not about correction — it's about raising awareness. The SBI Model offers a simple structure: Situation, Behavior, Impact. Composure is critical — never deliver feedback when emotional. Constructive feedback should be two-way and solution-focused. Positive feedback builds trust and rewires the brain for success. Managers should spend more time reinforcing what's working than correcting mistakes. Effective feedback drives performance, culture, and leadership growth. Learn More: For leadership coaching, development programs, or AI-enhanced learning tools to support your managers, visit newlevelwork.com. Like what you hear? Do you enjoy our show? One of the best ways to help us out is leave a 5-star review on your platform of choice! It's easy - just go here: https://www.newlevelwork.com/review For more information, please visit the New Level Work website. https://www.newlevelwork.com/category/podcast
- Jul 29, 202537 min
Creating a Culture of Psychological Safety with Karolin Helbig and Minette Norman (Encore) | Ep #124
In this encore episode of Building Better Managers, host Wendy Hanson talks with experts Karolin Helbig and Minette Norman to explore the critical concept of psychological safety in the workplace. They discuss the importance of creating an environment where employees feel safe to express themselves, share ideas, and take risks without fear of negative consequences. The conversation covers practical strategies for leaders and team members alike to foster psychological safety, including communication techniques, managing reactions, embracing failure, and designing inclusive rituals. Key takeaways: Psychological safety is essential for creativity and innovation. Leaders set the tone for psychological safety in teams. Everyone in a team contributes to the climate of safety. Communicating courageously is a foundational element of safety. Managing reactions is crucial for maintaining psychological safety. Embracing failure can lead to valuable learning opportunities. Inclusive rituals can enhance team dynamics in hybrid settings. The power of pause can help in managing responses effectively. Little changes in behavior can lead to significant cultural shifts. Psychological safety requires deliberate cultivation and practice. Meet Minette: Minette Norman is a consultant and speaker specializing in inclusive leadership development, with a focus on fostering psychological safety to create inclusive work environments. Prior to her work in inclusive leadership, Minette spent many years leading global technical teams in the software industry, giving her a deep understanding of the challenges facing organizations in today's fast-paced and constantly evolving business landscape. Meet Karolin: Karolin Helbig is an expert in helping leaders optimize team performance and transform their organizations through the development of mindset, emotional intelligence, and psychological safety. With over 15 years of experience as a top management consultant at McKinsey & Company, Karolin has a wealth of expertise in driving business success. Additionally, Karolin holds a PhD in human genetics from the Phillipps-Universität in Marburg, Germany. Follow: Minette on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/minettenorman/ Minette Website: https://www.minettenorman.com/ Karolin on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karolinhelbig/ Karolin Website: https://karolinhelbig.com/ The Psychological Safety Playbook: https://thepsychologicalsafetyplaybook.com/ Subscribe to our podcast on your favorite podcast platform! Do you enjoy our show? One of the best ways to help us out is leave a 5-star review on your platform of choice! It's easy - just go here: https://www.newlevelwork.com/review For more information, please visit the New Level Work website. https://www.newlevelwork.com/category/podcast © 2019 - 2025 New Level Work
- Jul 15, 202532 min
Navigating Workplace Drama Effectively with Marlene Chism (Encore) | Ep #123
In this encore episode of Building Better Managers, host Wendy Hanson engages with Marlene Chism to explore the complexities of conflict in the workplace. They discuss the importance of developing conflict capacity, emotional integrity, and leadership clarity. Marlene emphasizes the need for leaders to confront their inner narratives and the impact of organizational culture on conflict resolution. Key takeaways: Conflict capacity involves skills development, inner game, and culture. Drama in the workplace is inevitable but can be managed. Emotional integrity means owning your experience and feelings. Changing your narrative can shift your perspective on conflict. Leadership identity must align with organizational goals. Clarity in leadership roles is essential for effective management. Workplace culture influences how conflict is addressed. Self-awareness is key to navigating personal and professional conflicts. Leaders should encourage open communication to reduce drama. Courage is necessary to engage in difficult conversations. Meet Marlene: Marlene is the author of four books, including Stop Workplace Drama, No-Drama Leadership, 7 Ways to Stop Drama in Your Healthcare Practice, and From Conflict to Courage: How to Stop Avoiding and Start Leading. She's also an expert on the LinkedIn Learning platform, offering courses in Anger Management, Difficult Conversations, Difficult Conversations for Managers, and Working with High Conflict People as a Manager. Marlene has a degree in Communications from Drury University and a Master's degree in Human Resources Development from Webster University. She's an advanced practitioner in Narrative Coaching. Follow Marlene: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/marlenechism/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marlenechismconsulting/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/marlenechism Website - https://www.marlenechism.com/ Subscribe to our podcast on your favorite podcast platform! Do you enjoy our show? One of the best ways to help us out is leave a 5-star review on your platform of choice! It's easy - just go here: https://www.newlevelwork.com/review For more information, please visit the New Level Work website. https://www.newlevelwork.com/category/podcast © 2019 - 2025 New Level Work
- Jul 1, 202535 min
Self-Care Strategies for Leaders with Liz Kislik (Encore) | Ep #122
In this encore episode of Building Better Managers, host Wendy Hanson discusses the importance of self-care for leaders with management consultant Liz Kislik. They explore effective time management strategies, the distinction between empathy and compassion, and the structural solutions that can support self-care in the workplace. The conversation emphasizes the need for leaders to model self-care, manage their time effectively, and navigate conflicts with compassion and action. Listeners are encouraged to take actionable steps to improve their leadership and team dynamics. Key takeaways: Self-care is essential for effective leadership. Good calendar management helps reduce stress. Meetings should allow for breaks and reflection. Empathy is about feeling; compassion is about action. Structural changes can support self-care in organizations. Conflict avoidance can lead to increased stress. Taking small steps can lead to significant changes. Walking meetings can enhance creativity and reduce stress. Focus on positive outcomes to foster a better environment. Leaders should model self-care for their teams. Meet Liz: Liz is an accomplished management consultant and executive coach with over 30 years of experience in developing high-performing leaders and workforces. Known for her expertise in conflict resolution and improving workplace dynamics, Liz is a respected thought leader and contributor to renowned publications such as Harvard Business Review and Forbes. Trusted by Fortune 500 companies including American Express, Girl Scouts, Staples, Janssen Pharmaceuticals, and Highlights for Children, Liz serves as a valued advisor, leveraging her wealth of experience to drive their success. Follow Liz: LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizkislik/ Website - http://www.lizkislik.com/ Subscribe to our podcast on your favorite podcast platform! Do you enjoy our show? One of the best ways to help us out is leave a 5-star review on your platform of choice! It's easy - just go here: https://www.newlevelwork.com/review For more information, please visit the New Level Work website. https://www.newlevelwork.com/category/podcast © 2019 - 2025 New Level Work
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About Building Better Managers
Building Better Managers is a podcast from New Level Work, dedicated to helping leaders at every level create thriving, productive, and people-focused workplaces.Each episode features insightful conversations with leadership experts and organizational thinkers on topics like leadership development, coaching, communication, culture, productivity, employee engagement, and accountability.We believe people don't leave companies—they leave managers. Our mission is to equip leaders with the tools, mindset, and inspiration to bring out the best in their teams and themselves.Tune in each week to learn practical strategies and real-world insights you can apply immediately to build stronger relationships, foster continuous learning, and create a workplace where people love to contribute.Presented by New Level Work — transforming leadership, one manager at a time.
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