WiLD Conversation

Measurement Matters: The Power of Trust

Trust is the foundation of every thriving team and successful organization, but it doesn’t emerge by chance. Building trust requires intentional effort—measuring it, understanding it, and aligning it with both personal and operational factors.
In this episode, we explore how trust works on two essential levels: 1️⃣ The inside-out, where psychological safety, emotional intelligence, and personal growth foster connection and confidence. 2️⃣ The outside-in, where systems, leadership strategies, and organizational structure create sustainable performance at scale.
We’ll discuss how to move beyond focusing on one dimension of trust to embracing both, creating organizations that grow from chaotic jungles to strongholds of sustaining trust. Discover how to make trust measurable, actionable, and transformational for your mission, your people, and your results.
#MeasurementMatters #PowerOfTrust #StrongInsideOut #SustainingTrust #LeadershipDevelopment #OrganizationalHealth #TeamPerformance #PsychologicalSafety #StrategicLeadership #MissionImpact #TrustInAction

Courageous Vulnerability: Navigating the Risks and Rewards of Being Seen

In a culture that celebrates vulnerability as a solution to relational and personal challenges, we often overlook its nuanced application. Vulnerability is powerful, but it’s not a one-size-fits-all solution. For leaders, parents, and those in safety and security roles, balancing openness and safety is an ongoing tension. In this episode, we explore the courage required to be vulnerable, the risks of being misunderstood, and why true vulnerability demands humility, thoughtfulness, and discernment. Together, we’ll unpack how vulnerability shapes our character, connects us to others, and sometimes leaves us questioning the costs.
Listener Takeaways:
Understand why vulnerability is not a universal solution and how its expression varies by context and individual.
Explore the hidden tensions behind our fears of being misunderstood and the courage required to face them.
Learn practical insights on balancing vulnerability with thoughtfulness and humility in leadership and personal relationships.
Reflect on how openness to being hurt—or misunderstood—can foster trust and growth when approached intentionally.
#CourageousVulnerability #AuthenticLeadership #EmotionalIntelligence #TrustedLeader

From Tactical to Strategic: Building Governance, Trust, and Human Connection

In this episode, Dr. McKenna and Erik Antons, dive deep into the transformative power of governance and strategic leadership within organizations. Why do so many departments excel tactically yet struggle at the strategic level? How does trust, integrity, and connection shape our effectiveness not only in the workplace but also in life?
 
They explore these themes, touching on operational procedures, the art of meaningful human connection, and even the psychology of security and physiological needs. From Maslow’s hierarchy to personal stories of trust and resilience, this episode will leave you inspired to elevate your leadership and embrace the strategic opportunities around you.
Listener Takeaways:
Governance Matters: Understand why strategic leadership and structured governance are crucial to advancing beyond the tactical level.
The Power of Trust: Learn why trust and integrity are foundational for building effective teams and relationships.
Connection as Leadership: Discover how authentic connection fosters stronger organizational culture and individual resilience.
Strategic vs. Tactical: Insights on how to bridge the gap between high-level strategy and in-the-trenches execution.
Human Needs and Security: A unique perspective on how security complements physiological needs for both humans and animals.
Connect to explore how you can use the WiLD Trust Index in your own life, team, or organization. Click here for more: https://www.wildleaders.org/wild-trust-index
 
#LeadershipDevelopment #GovernanceMatters #StrategicLeadership #TrustAndIntegrity #HumanConnection #OrganizationalHealth #MaslowRevisited #SecurityLeadership
 

Finding Your Sweet Spot: Aligning Passion, Purpose, and Performance

In this insightful episode Dr. Rob McKenna, CEO of WiLD Leaders and creator of the WiLD Trust Platform explores the importance of intentionality, alignment, and the transformational power of finding your sweet spot in life and leadership.
There are few moments as exhilarating as being in your sweet spot—when your purpose aligns seamlessly with your actions. These moments are not free from pressure, but they bring clarity, efficiency, and joy. They don’t happen by accident; they’re the result of intentionality and a commitment to living and working in alignment.
While being outside the sweet spot can feel frustrating or even defeating, finding your way back is a journey worth taking. It requires self-awareness, purpose-driven effort, and a willingness to embrace opportunities that reveal your true calling.
Listener Takeaways:
Clarity and Alignment: The sweet spot is where your unique identity and purpose meet your daily actions, driving fulfillment and performance.
Intentionality Matters: Achieving alignment isn’t accidental; it requires intentional reflection and action.
Impact Beyond You: Operating in your sweet spot not only energizes you but also inspires and benefits those around you.
Recognize the Drift: Feeling defeated or frustrated may be a sign you’ve stepped out of alignment—use this as motivation to recalibrate.
Small Steps, Big Results: Purposeful adjustments and self-awareness can help you reclaim the joy and energy of living in alignment.
Let's connect to explore how you can use the WiLD Trust Index in your own life, team, or organization. Click here for more: https://www.wildleaders.org/wild-trust-index 
#SweetSpot #PurposeDriven #AlignmentMatters #LivingWithIntentionality #LeadershipGrowth #MotivationAndClarity #WiLDTrust #LeadershipDevelopment #IntentionalLeadership

Adaptive Leadership: Risk, Presilience, and the Power of Editability with Dr. Gavriel Schneider

In this episode, Dr. Rob McKenna, CEO of WiLD Leaders, and Dr. Gavriel Schneider, founder of Risk 2 Solution, dive into essential qualities of leadership—trust, risk intelligence, and adaptability. They explore the foundational skills leaders need for effective decision-making, emphasizing that trust and resilience are built, not assumed. Dr. Schneider shares insights on balancing risk with strategy and discusses how leaders can avoid the traps of panic and inaction. Dr. McKenna adds that great leaders must have “editability,” a willingness to revise their own views and practices, even when it’s challenging. This conversation is a powerful reminder that strong leadership is an ongoing journey of adaptability, integrity, and resilience.
 
Connect with Dr. Gav and Risk 2 Solution Group:  https://risk2solution.com/
Read more about the Institute of Presilience: https://instituteofpresilience.edu.au/
 
Let's connect to explore how you can use the WiLD Trust Index in your own organization. Click here for more: https://www.wildleaders.org/wild-trust-index
 
#Leadership #RiskIntelligence #Trust #Resilience #Presilience #Editability #ResilientLeadership #MindfulInaction #GrowthMindset #WiLDLeaders #Risk2Solution #LeadershipPodcast

Building Bridges of Care: Trust as the Foundation for Caregiver and Senior Well-being with Tim Cooke

In this episode Dr. McKenna and Tim Cooke, CEO of Agape In Home Care, delve into the powerful role that trust plays in the caregiving industry, particularly in senior care.
Trust as the Foundation of Quality Care: Understand why prioritizing caregivers’ needs creates a culture of trust that enhances care for seniors, fostering dedication and reliability among caregiving teams.
Beyond the Basics: Going the Extra Mile: Learn how organizational practices—like covering both travel time and mileage—demonstrate genuine care for caregivers, creating a supportive and trusting work environment.
The Ripple Effect of Trust in Caregiving: Discover the powerful impact of promoting caregivers' well-being, leading to a stronger, more committed workforce that is equipped to provide compassionate and attentive care to seniors.

The Lies We Tell Ourselves About Mentoring with Dr. Ellen Ensher

In this eye-opening episode of the WiLD Conversation Podcast, Dr. Ellen Ensher delves into the myths surrounding mentorship. She challenges the belief that simply having a mentor is a one-way ticket to career success. Dr. Ensher and Dr. McKenna discuss the importance of realistic expectations, the limitations of traditional mentorship structures, and the essential role of self-awareness in career growth. From the complexities of AI-assisted mentor matching to the responsibility of contributing back to one's mentors, she shares her insights on how to get the most out of mentoring relationships.
Key Takeaways:
Mentorship Isn’t a Fix-All SolutionJust having a mentor won’t automatically solve all career challenges. Mentorship is only one part of a larger growth process that involves self-awareness and the willingness to learn and give back.
AI and Choice Improve Mentorship MatchesRandom mentor-mentee pairings rarely succeed. However, recent advances in AI offer more refined matching options, though even with algorithms, success depends on a degree of personal choice.
Set Realistic ExpectationsMentors aren’t miracle workers. Building a successful mentoring relationship requires calibrating expectations and understanding that it may not fulfill all emotional needs, but can still offer valuable insights.
 
For more about Dr. Ellen Ensher : https://ellenensher.com/
Ready to explore how we can build trust in your organization? https://meetings.hubspot.com/chris-shaffer/wti-info
For more about WiLD Leaders: https://www.wildleaders.org/ 

If It Feels Gross, You're Doing It Wrong with Dr. Daniel Hallak

Trust isn’t just a value—it’s an opportunity for leaders to invest in others and create environments where people and performance thrive.
 "You can’t give what you don’t have. Leaders who feel supported can lead with generosity and trust."
We’re excited to share that Dr. Daniel Hallak’s TEDx talk, “Networking doesn't have to feel gross,” is now featured by TED!  Watch it here: go.ted.com/danielhallak
In the talk, Daniel explores how shifting from a mindset of “What can I get?” to “What can I give?” transforms networking—and any relationship—into a meaningful, trust-building experience.
In this Wild Conversation Podcast Dr. Daniel Hallak dives deeper into the key themes of his talk. He shared insights on why trust is essential for high-performing teams and how generosity beyond reciprocity creates lasting value. This conversation isn’t just about networking—it’s about leadership, sales, and building a thriving culture where people and performance flourish.
 Interested in learning more about trust-building strategies for your team? Let’s connect: https://meetings.hubspot.com/chris-shaffer/wti-info
#Leadership #TrustBuilding #HighPerformanceTeams #GenerosityInLeadership #TEDx
 

If You Don’t Have Trust You Can’t Bake the Cake - Dr. Les Parrott author of Saving Your Marriage Before It Starts

In this episode, #1 New York Times best-selling author Dr. Les Parrott reveals the shocking truth about empathy: it’s not just about feelings—it’s about being a HERO! Discover how true empathy can push you to risk it all for others and why this rare skill sets real leaders apart. 
 
While inspiration is important, real transformation requires a combination of motivation and the right nudge at the right moment. Dr. McKenna and Dr. Parrott discuss the importance of teaching practical, easily executable behaviors that are backed by research, like the simple yet profound act of seeing conflict from your partner's perspective. Surprisingly, doing this can resolve conflict 90% of the time.
 
Dr. Parrot and Dr. McKenna empower individuals, teams, organizations, and couples to foster a foundation of trust and create environments where people feel secure enough to take calculated risks that will transform relationships, elevate leadership, and make us an unstoppable force.
 
Here are just a few powerful takeaways:
 
Empathy is an act of bravery, often requiring personal sacrifice to support others.
Real change comes from pairing motivation with simple, actionable behaviors and timely nudges.
Emotional safety and trust are essential for encouraging risk-taking and growth within teams and relationships.
 
#EmpathyUnlocked #LeadershipHacks  #ConflictResolution #TrustMatters #BeTheHero #LesParrott #WiLD #Conversation #Podcast #Business #Marriage #Trust 
 
For more on Les and Leslie’s work click here: https://www.lesandleslie.com/
 
To order Trading Places: https://store.lesandleslie.com/collections/trading-places
 
For more on the WiLD Trust Index: https://www.wildleaders.org/wild-trust-index
 
Connect with a WiLD team member: https://www.wildleaders.org/get-started
 

“Thank You for Saying The Hard Thing Now” on Lifelong Learning and Leadership with President Deana Porterfield

"Thank You for Saying the Hard Thing Now" – on Lifelong Learning and Leadership.
In this must-listen episode, the art of life long learning and leadership takes center stage as President Deana Porterfield and Dr. Rob McKenna dive into leadership lessons that everyone needs to hear. Here are just three of many takeaways:
Mastering Tough Conversations: Learn the secret to surviving a challenging conversation without blowing up! President Porterfield emphasizes the importance of being open to feedback, expressing concerns productively, and keeping the dialogue going—even when it gets uncomfortable.
Own Your Role: This episode shows why leadership is about learning to "manage up" rather than seeking a place to complain—own your role, and navigate up the chain with maturity.
Openness is Key to Growth: Want to grow as a leader? You need to be open to self-awareness. President Porterfield reveals why mentorship and development only work when you're willing to own your weaknesses and take accountability for your actions.
This episode is a game-changer for anyone looking to sharpen their leadership skills and face hard truths head-on! Don’t miss it!
For more on Seattle Pacific University visit: https://spu.edu/
For more on WiLD Leaders visit: https://www.wildleaders.org/
Let's connect to explore how you can use the WiLD Trust Index to measure and nurture trust in your own organization.
Click here for more on the WiLD Trust Index: https://www.wildleaders.org/wild-trust-index
#LeadershipSkills #ToughConversations #ProfessionalGrowth #MentorshipMatters #OwnYourRole #Whole #Intentional #Leader #Development #Trust #WildTrustPlatform #SPU #Podcast