Preparing for Uncertainty in 2026

Change is coming. The question is whether your culture is ready. In this episode, Eric, Chris Downey, and Wendy Loewen talk storm readiness: planning for uncertainty, strengthening relationships and trust, and using mission, vision, and values to make clearer decisions under pressure. You’ll leave with grounded, doable leadership practices for steadying your team when things get messy. Try our free Culture Transformation Starter Kit!

In this episode, we explore a fundamental question: what kind of leader do you want to be, and why it matters to get clear on your leadership identity. We unpack the “double path” of leadership growth; developing who you are on the inside and what you do in your day-to-day practice. From setting SMART leadership goals to making them real by sharing them with peers and direct reports. We also highlight how feedback and honest self-reflection can reveal the space between your intentions and your impact, and what to do when you notice a mismatch. Define the kind of leader you want to be, align your actions with that vision, and lead with greater authenticity and effectiveness in your organization. Try our free Culture Transformation Starter Kit!

In this episode, we explore how leaders can move from “I know myself” to “I know my impact.” We unpack the gap that often exists between how leaders see themselves and how their teams actually feel, and why closing that gap is crucial for a healthy workplace culture. We talk about how to invite honest input from team members, what to watch for in meetings that reveals how people actually experience you, and how to handle hard feedback without getting defensive. Try our free Culture Transformation Starter Kit!

In this episode of the ACHIEVE Workplace Culture Podcast, Wendy, Chris and Eric discuss the topic of how to encourage and manage dissenting voices in the workplace. Is 'dissent' the right word, or should we focus more on fostering varied perspectives? We explore the nuances between disagreement and dissent, the importance of creating a safe space for alternative viewpoints, and practical strategies for leaders to respond constructively. Listen in to learn how encouraging disagreement can lead to better decision-making, heightened creativity, and improved workplace culture. Try our free Culture Transformation Starter Kit!

In this episode of the ACHIEVE Workplace Culture Podcast, Eric, Chris and Wendy explore some of their unexpected sources of leadership wisdom. They talk through a variety of scenarios ranging from historical events to interactions with nature and fictional literature, emphasizing that leadership insights can be found in everyday experiences Emphasizing the value of staying curious, and reflecting on those insights with others. Listen in and learn alongside us! Try our free Culture Transformation Starter Kit!

In this episode of the ACHIEVE Workplace Culture podcast, Eric, Wendy and Chris explore the metaphor 'Don't Blame the Lettuce' to emphasize the importance of examining workplace conditions rather than blaming individuals for their performance. They discuss how shifting from judgment to curiosity can lead to better workplace culture, innovation, and interpersonal relationships, as well as highlight the vital role curiosity plays in creating a supportive and productive work environment. Join us as we explore how to foster a culture of care, curiosity, and continuous improvement. Try our free Culture Transformation Starter Kit!

It’s the fourth anniversary of The Achieve Workplace Culture Podcast, and Eric, Cat, and Scott are celebrating by tackling a tricky question: can being a fun boss go too far? From champagne-sipping managers to nap-happy offices, they share real stories about what happens when workplace fun crosses the line. They dig into what it really takes to build teams that enjoy coming to work while still getting things done. Plus, they play a hilarious round of “Fun or Fail”, where they rate some truly questionable management ideas. If you’ve ever wondered where fun meets productivity, this episode is a mix of laughter, lessons, and practical tips to help any leader find the sweet spot. Try our free Culture Transformation Starter Kit!

In this episode of the ACHIEVE Workplace Culture Podcast, Chris Downey and Wendy Loewen are joined by special guest Mel Bazin, Director of Indigenous Services with CTRI and ACHIEVE. Together, they explore what reconciliation really means for organizations and how it connects to workplace culture. The conversation dives into why understanding history matters, how colonial structures continue to shape our systems today, and what it takes to move from performative gestures to meaningful, reciprocal relationships. With practical insights on creating inclusive environments, embracing missteps as learning opportunities, and ensuring all voices are welcomed “around the fire,” this episode challenges leaders to see reconciliation as both a responsibility and an opportunity to foster healthier workplaces. Try our free Culture Transformation Starter Kit!

In this special crossover episode, the ACHIEVE team is joined by Vicki Enns, host of Counselling Insights from CTRI, to explore what leaders can learn from the world of mental health and counselling. Together with co-hosts Eric Stutzman and Wendy Loewen, the conversation covers how therapeutic principles, like empathy, boundaries, and curiosity, can transform leadership and workplace culture. Key takeaways include: Why leaders don't need to be therapists, but should care about mental health How human connection and psychological safety fuel performance The difference between over-functioning and helpful support A three-step guide for what to do when someone shares something personal at work Why understanding relationship patterns is critical for team dynamics Plus, a thoughtful discussion on whether your workplace should feel like a family, and a powerful rave about CEOs doing emotional work to become better leaders. Try our free Culture Transformation Starter Kit!

In this episode, Eric Stutzman, Chris Downey, and Wendy Loewen dive deep into a question every organization should be asking: Are we intentionally developing our leaders, or just hoping they’ll figure it out? Through stories, insights, and a few laughs (yes, tater tots and cupboard doors make a cameo), the team explores the foundational role leadership development plays in shaping healthy workplace culture. You’ll learn: Why developing leaders is essential, not optional, for organizational success The difference between assessing and truly developing leadership capacity How consistency, shared philosophy, and values-based practices shape strong leadership Practical ways to support leadership development, even with zero budget The importance of both vertical (who you are) and horizontal (what you do) leadership growth Plus: Chris shares a rave that proves even your office pizza order can reflect your culture, and why that matters more than you might think. Try our free Culture Transformation Starter Kit!