What if the pressure to cut costs could actually unlock innovation? In this episode, former Fortune 500 division president Louise Francesconi and Arbinger consultants Mike Merchant and Duane Boyce share how two organizations on opposite ends of the globe faced the impossible mandate of cutting $100 million. Instead of collapsing under pressure, their leaders discovered how an outward mindset transformed fear, resistance, and self-preservation into collaboration, creativity, and lasting results. Ideas we explore: 02:14 – How to tackle any high-stakes challenge. 06:52 – Why the way you start determines whether you succeed. 09:47 – Why you need to shift from self-preservation to supporting others. 13:35 – What it takes to move a divided, resistant group into alignment. 18:22 – How to uncover solutions no one sees. 22:40 – When strategy isn’t enough to deliver results. Take your learning further—download the complimentary study guide to explore this episode on your own or with your team! Need help developing your leaders or organization? Schedule a complimentary strategy session.
AI Summary coming soon
Sign up to get notified when the full AI-powered summary is ready.
Free forever for up to 3 podcasts. No credit card required.
How listening wins in wars and workplaces.
Who we are is who we are together.
The pain of forgetting we belong to each other.
I signed up to coach baseball. I got a leadership masterclass.
Free AI-powered recaps of Leading Outward and your other favorite podcasts, delivered to your inbox.
Free forever for up to 3 podcasts. No credit card required.