At The Table with Patrick Lencioni

How can you pursue excellence without becoming discouraged by imperfection? Organizational health does not mean eliminating conflict, dysfunction, or difficult seasons forever. In episode 279 of At The Table, Pat Lencioni and Cody Thompson explain why leaders need to replace the pursuit of organizational perfection with resilience, learning to expect downturns while continuing to move toward greater health. When things get messy, the answer is not despair, but returning to what is true, recommitting to core principles, and getting incrementally better. Topics explored in this episode: (00:00) The Myth of the Perfect Organization Pat explains why organizational health should never be confused with creating a perfect company, team, or family. The pursuit of utopia can distort expectations and cause leaders to see normal struggles as evidence that something has gone fundamentally wrong. (02:56) When Healthy Organizations Get Messy Pat and Cody discuss the danger of believing an organization will eventually…

Are you treating teamwork as a real competitive advantage or simply something your company says it values? In episode 278 of At The Table, Patrick Lencioni and Cody Thompson revisit the debate over remote work, arguing that there is an important distinction between hiring genuinely remote employees, offering reasonable flexibility, and allowing local teammates to avoid working together. They challenge leaders to consider whether policies built primarily around convenience are undermining trust, culture, productivity, and the competitive advantages that come from real human interaction. Ultimately, the episode asks leaders and employees to answer a more fundamental question: are they serious enough about their work and their teammates to prioritize being together when they can? Topics explored in this episode: (00:00) The Horse Still Isn’t Dead Pat argues that teamwork requires people to actually know one another and spend meaningful time together. Pat and Cody introduce the recurring remote-work debate and…

Are you avoiding a difficult conversation because you care about someone, or because you are protecting yourself? In episode 277 of At The Table, Pat Lencioni and Cody Thompson explore why accountability is consistently one of the hardest behaviors for teams and argue that avoiding difficult feedback is often selfishness disguised as compassion. They explain that real accountability comes from caring enough about another person to tell the truth, even when doing so risks discomfort, frustration, or temporary rejection. They also discuss the importance of trust, timing, leadership modeling, and practicing accountability until hard conversations become a normal part of a healthy team. Topics explored in this episode: (00:00) Why Accountability Is an Act of Love Pat argues that avoiding difficult feedback is often selfishness disguised as compassion because it protects the person giving the feedback rather than helping the person who needs it. Pat and Cody introduce the idea that genuine accountability requires…

Are Your Meetings Too Comfortable? Workplace drama has a bad reputation, but in episode 276 of At The Table, Pat Lencioni and Cody Thompson argue that genuine drama is often exactly what healthy organizations need. When teams allow real emotions, disagreements, fears, and convictions into the room, they can address difficult issues instead of letting them quietly grow. The challenge for leaders is learning to distinguish healthy drama from manufactured melodrama and then creating an environment where people can say what really needs to be said. Topics explored in this episode: (00:00) Why Workplaces Need More Drama Pat and Cody challenge the assumption that all workplace drama is unhealthy, distinguishing genuine human emotion from exaggerated melodrama. They argue that organizations become more interesting, engaging, and effective when people are willing to address the emotional reality behind important issues. (04:03) Putting Real Stakes Back Into Work Cody compares healthy organizations to compelling…

Where do you actually do your best and most important work? Work does not always happen where, when, or how people expect it to happen. In episode 275 of At The Table, Pat Lencioni and Cody Thompson explore why thinking, brainstorming, reflecting, and solving problems should count just as much as the visible activity people typically associate with productivity. They challenge leaders to create cultures that measure people by meaningful contribution and results rather than how busy they appear at their desks. Topics explored in this episode: (00:00) Where Does Work Really Happen? Pat questions whether traditional work hours and office spaces accurately reflect when people are actually doing their most valuable work. Cody expands the conversation by asking a more fundamental question: what should actually qualify as work? (03:43) Making Space for Different Kinds of Work Pat explains why choosing to stay away from the office for an hour of focused creative thinking can sometimes be more productive than…

Why might physical work become more valuable as AI advances? Physical, hands-on work may be entering a new era of relevance as artificial intelligence changes the future of desk-based careers. In episode 274 of At The Table, Pat and Cody explore how tangible work can provide economic stability, human connection, visible accomplishment, and opportunities for personal development. They also challenge leaders and parents to consider whether efficiency should always take priority over the dignity, growth, and satisfaction that meaningful work can provide. Topics explored in this episode: (00:00) Why Physical Work Is Becoming Cool Again Pat introduces the growing appeal of physical, present, and tangible work as artificial intelligence begins replacing more computer-based tasks. Pat and Cody examine how previous generations encouraged young people to pursue white-collar careers rather than jobs involving physical skill or direct service. (03:40) The Unexpected Value of a Tree Service Pat shares the story of Rocky…

Why can two people leave the same meeting with completely different understandings? A newcomer’s perspective reveals something experienced professionals often forget: work is far messier and less logical than it appears from the outside. In episode 273 of At The Table, Pat and Cody examine how fear, nonverbal communication, personality differences, and unspoken assumptions cause even healthy teams to misunderstand one another. They also explain how stronger meeting discipline, good intentions, and greater grace can help organizations navigate that messiness and move in the same direction. Topics explored in this episode: (00:00) A Newcomer’s View of Work Pat shares a surprising observation from his son Michael’s first summer working in an office environment. Michael notices that people can understand their jobs and speak the same language while still missing the deeper meaning behind one another’s words. (04:31) Why Alignment Is So Difficult Pat and Cody discuss why even successful companies are filled with…

What happens when your business starts treating profit as the goal instead of the indicator? In episode 272 of At The Table, Pat and Cody challenge one of the most common assumptions in business: that maximizing profit should be the goal. They argue that profit is essential, but when leaders treat it as a company's purpose, they risk harming customers, employees, products, and culture. Leaders are invited to decide what is enough, invest in what matters, and build organizations that create value beyond the bottom line. Topics explored in this episode: (00:00) The Assumption Behind Profit Pat introduces the problem with assuming that maximizing profit is the goal of business. Cody points out how natural that assumption feels, even for people who have never studied business formally. (03:00) Winning Without Running Up the Score Pat compares business to football, explaining that the goal is to win, not to score as many points as possible. Cody expands the analogy by explaining why eliminating competition can…

What would happen if your team was challenged to do something ridiculous on purpose? In episode 271 of At The Table, Pat, Cody, and Matthew share the story of a risky, creative experiment from The Table Group’s annual consulting conference in Franklin, Tennessee. After giving teams one hour and $400 to create something ridiculous, outlandish, and loosely connected to organizational health, they watched their consultants produce original songs, recognize an ideal team player, rent an eight-foot tree, and even paint The Table Group office. The conversation reveals how time constraints, trust, risk, and freedom can unlock creativity in ways that careful planning often cannot. Topics explored in this episode: (00:00) The Power Of Limited Time Pat introduces the idea that limiting time can actually increase innovation, creativity, and execution. Cody explains the purpose of The Table Group’s annual consulting conference and how the team wanted to create a short but meaningful offsite experience. (04:03) One Hour,…

Why does trust become even more important in a world shaped by AI? In episode 270 of At The Table, Patrick Lencioni, Cody Thompson, and Matthew Lencioni discuss how much the workplace has changed across generations, from voicemail lights and computer labs to AI and virtual work. While the tools, speed, and structure of work have changed dramatically, they argue that trust, teamwork, clarity, and healthy culture have not changed at all. As technology becomes more accessible and commoditized, the episode argues that organizational health may be a greater competitive advantage than ever. Topics explored in this episode: (00:00) Technology Changes, But Leadership Doesn’t Pat introduces the idea that the fundamentals of great relationships, teams, families, and organizations have not changed, even as technology has transformed work. Pat and Cody preview the episode’s core question: how much has work changed, and how much have leadership and organizational health stayed the same? (03:32) Remembering the…

What important message have you stopped repeating because you assumed people already knew it? In episode 269 of At The Table, Patrick Lencioni and Cody Thompson make the case that people need reminders more than they need brand-new information. They explain why leaders often undercommunicate the most important things: they are afraid of sounding repetitive, annoying, or insulting. Through examples from work, church, family, and everyday life, they challenge listeners to stop assuming people remember and start repeating what matters. Topics explored in this episode: (00:00) Why Reminders Matter Pat introduces the idea that people often fail to say important things because they assume others already know or remember them. Cody connects the topic to the broader need for reminders in work, leadership, strategy, church, and family life. (03:19) Returning To The Basics Pat explains that much of his work with leaders involves reminding them of simple truths they already knew but stopped applying. Cody points out…

How can you design an offsite that your team actually values? Most offsites fail because they are either too loose to be productive or too rigid to be meaningful. In episode 268 of At The Table, Patrick Lencioni and Cody break down what made their most recent offsite the best in decades. They reveal why the right mix of structure, vulnerability, and flexibility can transform an offsite into a powerful catalyst for alignment and trust. Topics explored in this episode: (00:03) Why Offsites Get a Bad Reputation Offsites often fail because they mix too many meeting types into one session. Many teams dread them due to wasted time and lack of meaningful outcomes. (02:23) The Stakes of a Great Offsite Pulling people away from work and family raises the bar for value. A successful offsite must create alignment, trust, and forward momentum. (07:38) Designing with Flexibility, Not Perfection Leaders chose a few key topics but intentionally left space in the agenda. Real value comes from adapting to what’s happening in…

How can you tell if your company has a strong culture or just generic values? Most companies don’t struggle with being cult-like; they struggle with having any real culture at all. In this episode, Patrick Lencioni and Cody Thompson break down the critical differences between strong cultures and actual cult behavior, highlighting why clarity and conviction matter. You’ll learn why great organizations embrace distinct values, even if it means not being the right fit for everyone. Topics explored in this episode: (00:00:00) Defining Culture vs. Cult Culture is built on shared beliefs, customs, and behaviors within a group. A cult involves coercion, isolation, or dangerous practices, not just strong values. (00:03:54) Why Most Companies Lack Real Culture Many organizations operate with generic or weak cultural identities. Strong cultures naturally repel people who don’t align, and that’s healthy. (00:08:24) The Role of Choice vs. Coercion Healthy cultures invite people to opt in rather than forcing conformity.…

How do you know if someone truly belongs on your team? In episode 266 of At The Table, Patrick Lencioni and Cody Thompson review the surprising origin of The Ideal Team Player and why its simple framework continues to resonate years later. You’ll learn how the combination of humility, hunger, and smarts defines great team members—and what happens when one is missing. You’ll walk away with practical ways to hire better, develop your people, and build a stronger, healthier team culture. Topics explored in this episode: (00:02:23) Origins of Humble, Hungry, Smart Pat explains how the three values emerged from real-world leadership experience. The framework gained traction as clients recognized its universal relevance. (00:07:24) Why the Model Works So Powerfully The simplicity of the framework makes it easy to apply immediately in teams. The combination of all three traits, not just one, is what drives true effectiveness. (00:11:14) Breaking Down the Three Traits Humility, hunger, and smarts are defined with…

How would your team’s culture shift if you started catching people doing their jobs well and celebrating those moments publicly? In episode 265 of At The Table, Pat Lencioni and Cody Thompson revisit Pat’s book The Truth About Employee Engagement, arguing its lessons are crucial now. They unpack the three root causes of employee misery - anonymity, irrelevance, and immeasurement - and show how any manager can improve work experience by addressing these human needs. Through stories and takeaways, they emphasize that making employees feel known, valued, and empowered to measure success requires only intentional, consistent attention. Topics explored in this episode: (00:06:46) Why the Solution Works Everywhere Cody reflects on how remarkable it is that the book’s solution applies equally to an airport fast-food worker and a Fortune 100 executive. Pat introduces the first sign of a miserable job, anonymity, explaining that employees who feel unseen and unknown by their managers simply cannot love coming to…

What is one behavior you repeat that may be undermining your leadership? In episode 264 of At The Table, Patrick Lencioni and Cody Thompson discuss how leaders can grow by identifying habits such as interrupting others, avoiding conflict, or deflecting discomfort with humor. Leadership advice often focuses on adding new tools, strategies, and frameworks, but sometimes the most powerful improvement comes from stopping a behavior that undermines your team. By practicing “addition by subtraction,” leaders can create healthier teams simply by removing one recurring behavior. Topics explored in this episode: (00:00:00) The Idea Of Leadership Subtraction Patrick Lencioni introduces the concept that leaders can improve by stopping behaviors rather than constantly adding new practices. The hosts frame the discussion around the Lenten tradition of giving something up and apply that idea to leadership. (00:02:11) Personal Leadership Habits That Get In The Way Patrick reflects on his tendency to interrupt others and…

How can strategy stay intentional when planning cycles keep shrinking? In episode 263 of At The Table, Patrick Lencioni and Cody Thompson examine how the pace of change has transformed strategic planning. What once centered on five or ten-year plans now often lives within a three to six-month horizon. Rather than viewing this shift as chaotic, Patrick and Cody explain why a short-cycle strategy can be more responsible and effective. They explore how clarity of purpose and strong organizational health provide the stability needed to navigate constant change. Topics explored in this episode: (00:03:57) Why Planning Horizons Have Shrunk Technology and the rapid flow of information have dramatically accelerated the pace of change. Businesses and industries now evolve so quickly that long-term certainty is nearly impossible. (00:07:24) Planning Without Panic A short-term strategy should not be confused with constant urgency or chaos. Leaders can use sprint-based planning and frequent reassessment to stay…

What are you willing to repel in order to attract the right people? In this episode of At The Table, Patrick Lencioni and Cody Thompson challenge the idea that businesses should try to appeal to everyone. Instead, they argue for being intentionally extreme in two areas: core values and strategic anchors. When organizations are unmistakably clear about how they behave and how they succeed, they naturally repel the wrong employees and customers while attracting the right ones. Through examples like In-N-Out, Dutch Bros, Costco, and Nordstrom, they show how clarity and conviction create a stronger culture, cleaner decision-making, and more loyal teams and customers. Topics explored in this episode: (00:00) Why Great Organizations Repel the Wrong People * How strong values naturally filter out misaligned employees and customers * Why trying to include everyone weakens culture (04:11) Extreme Culture as a Competitive Advantage * How distinctive companies become “weird” on purpose * Why noticeable culture creates…

Are you making your work more complicated than it needs to be? In episode 261 of At The Table, Pat Lencioni and Cody Thompson explore why the ability to make something simple may be one of the clearest signs that someone truly understands it. They discuss how pride, expertise, and fear of looking uninformed can prevent leaders from asking basic questions and communicating ideas clearly. From consulting and organizational health to parenting and everyday life, Pat and Cody argue that the most important things are often simple, even when putting them into practice is incredibly hard. Topics explored in this episode: (00:00) Think Like a Six-Year-Old Pat and Cody introduce the idea that if someone cannot explain something to a six year old, they may not understand it well enough themselves. They challenge the assumption that complicated problems automatically require complicated solutions. (04:27) Getting to the Other Side of Complexity Pat shares how asking engineers to explain technology as if he were five…

Are you creating a workplace environment that feels like a cage or a park? In episode 260 of At The Table, Patrick and Cody unpack a powerful metaphor—“cocaine water”—to explain the dangers of isolation at work. Drawing from a well-known behavioral experiment that involves cages and parks, they connect addiction, loneliness, and disengagement to modern workplace culture. The conversation makes a compelling case that real connection at work fuels not only productivity but also dignity, healing, and human flourishing. Topics explored in this episode: (01:23) The Cocaine Water Experiment * A behavioral experiment shows how isolation drives destructive choices, while community changes behavior. * The concept of a “rat park” illustrates how connection can eliminate addiction entirely. (04:08) Isolation and Remote Work * Reframing the remote-work debate as a question of human connection rather than location. (07:52) Dignity and Productivity Are Not Opposites * Connection improves results, satisfaction, and…

If you’re achieving at a high level while ignoring the health of your inner life, how can you reset? In episode 259 of At The Table, Pat and Cody explore why high achievement can be a warning sign rather than a badge of honor. They explain how leaders often use success to compensate for fear, insecurity, or unresolved personal issues. The conversation underscores that true leadership effectiveness begins with inner health long before it shows up in organizational results. Topics explored in this episode: (00:30) The Real Cost of High Achievement * High achievement often masks deeper personal wounds and unmet internal needs. * Why leaders must address their spiritual, emotional, and relational health before chasing success. (03:15) The Inner Circle of Influence * How Stephen Covey’s “circle of influence” applies to a leader’s need to focus first on their internal well-being. * How fear can become the engine driving unsustainable achievement. (05:35) Organizational Health Begins With Leader Health * Warning…

Why does recommitting to trust matter more than recommitting to strategy? Episode 258 of At The Table episode explores the moments when teams and relationships reach a breaking point—where everything could unravel or deepen. Pat and Cody reflect on their own recent off-site, sharing how choosing vulnerability and recommitment led them to greater unity, clarity, and trust. They argue that the “messy” work of recommitting isn’t soft; it’s the most essential and transformative part of leadership. Topics explored in this episode: (03:17) Why the Cliff Always Feels Real * Early moments in The Table Group’s history when setbacks could have ended everything but ultimately created stronger bonds. * Parallels between organizational plateaus and long-term marriage. (07:06) Messiness, Trust, and Misconceptions * Why leaders shouldn’t judge their own teams for imperfection. * Challenging the myth that offsites should be purely strategic. (10:58) The Moment of Truth * The “moment of truth” where a leader either risks…

Do you sometimes over-rely on data to cover yourself instead of trusting your judgment? Episode 257 of At The Table explores why leaders often cling to data, certainty, and predictability—even though business is inherently messy. Pat and Cody discuss how fear of failure drives over-analysis, slowing decisions and weakening judgment. Ultimately, they argue that great leadership is an art fueled by instinct, courage, and human interaction—not algorithms or metrics. Topics explored in this episode: (03:15) Data vs. Instinct in Real Business * Why instinct and common sense dominate real executive decision-making. * The human tendency to return to predictability even when it repeatedly fails. (06:29) When Data Misleads and Context Matters * How statistical predictions often fail to capture real-life variables. * How leaders hide behind numbers to avoid personal responsibility. (09:13) The Power of Seeing the Problem Directly * How over-reliance on data can obscure common sense and slow down problem-solving.…

How does working in a “toxic” culture affect your ability to perform and trust others? Also, if your organization has an unhealthy work environment, how can leaders begin the process of internal correction? In episode 256 of At The Table, Pat Lencioni and Cody Thompson unpack what “toxic culture” really means—and what it doesn’t. They explore how toxicity rarely starts at the bottom but usually traces back to the executive team’s dysfunction, lack of clarity, or tolerance for poor behavior. They also share the signs, causes, and antidotes of toxic workplaces, encouraging leaders to create environments rooted in honesty and accountability. Topics explored in this episode: (00:20) Defining “Toxic Culture” * The importance of defining “toxic” and challenging the assumption that perks equal health. (04:00) The Source of Toxicity * Toxic cultures almost always originate at the executive level, not among lower-level employees. (08:00) How to Diagnose Toxicity * Cody compares toxic environments to poor sleep—you…

What happens when innovation outpaces our moral compass? In episode 255 of At The Table, Patrick and Cody wrestle with the tension between technological innovation and human dignity in the workplace. As artificial intelligence reshapes industries, they ask whether efficiency has become more important than humanity. This episode invites leaders and consumers alike to seek a moral “true north”—one that values people over profit and connection over convenience. Topics explored in this episode: (02:57) Innovation Without a True North * Concern that the rise of AI could fundamentally displace human work. * Innovation must be guided by ethics and human-centered purpose, not just economic efficiency. (07:15) The Role of Leaders * The need for leaders to assess whether their choices serve humanity. (10:10) The Role of Consumers * Consumers voting with their wallets and resisting convenience that devalues human connection. (14:27) The Convenience Crisis * How people increasingly prioritize ease over meaning. (18:45)…

Have your remote teams been unknowingly breeding politics through silence and distance? In episode 254 of At The Table, Pat and Cody explore how remote work can unintentionally foster politics and erode trust within teams. They unpack why virtual communication creates space for misunderstanding and suspicion—even among well-intentioned people. They also offer practical advice for building connections, restoring trust, and maintaining healthy team dynamics across distance. Topics explored in this episode: (00:00) Understanding Virtual Politics * How “virtual politics” can be thought of as the subtle mistrust that grows when people work apart. (03:30) How Distance Fuels Assumptions * How lack of information makes people fill in the gaps—often with negative assumptions. (06:27) Building Proactive Trust * How frequent, small check-ins can keep trust alive. * Why men and women sometimes handle connection differently and how teams can structure regular contact. (09:43) Efficiency vs. Relationship * How Zoom…

Are you unintentionally eroding trust by avoiding hard conversations? Also, what happens to your team when trust goes unexercised? In episode 253 of At The Table, Patrick Lencioni and Cody Thompson unpack why trust isn’t something to simply build and preserve—it must be used, stretched, and tested to grow stronger. They explore how leaders unintentionally erode trust by avoiding honest curiosity, mistaking it for suspicion. Topics explored in this episode: (00:00) Curiosity vs. Suspicion * How simple questions like “What are you working on?” can build or break trust. * Why avoiding questions to “protect” trust actually weakens it over time. (04:59) Trust Isn’t a Museum Piece * Unused trust is like a car that’s never driven—beautiful but purposeless. (09:56) Healthy Relationships Aren’t Fragile * How conflict and tension signal healthy trust, not dysfunction. * The importance of exercising trust through candid conversations. (13:28) Trust and Remote Leadership * How distance and fear of misinterpretation can…

What happens to a culture when leaders ignore problems? In episode 252 of At The Table, Patrick and Cody explore the leadership principle of running toward the fire. They discuss why leaders often ignore the “smoke” of personnel or cultural issues, hoping problems will resolve themselves. Instead, they argue that credibility, trust, and organizational health are built when leaders courageously confront issues before they spread. Topics explored in this episode: 00:35 – Seeing Smoke * Leaders set the tone by how they respond to problems. 03:33 – Defining the Fire * Personnel problems are the most commonly ignored fires in organizations. 06:03 – Why Leaders Avoid the Fire * Confrontation feels messy and uncomfortable, especially when emotions are involved. 09:45 – The Cost of Avoidance * Ignoring smoke damages credibility, weakens leadership muscle, and sets a bad cultural example. 12:20 – Regaining Credibility * Leaders can only rebuild trust through visible action, not promises. This episode of At The Table…

In what ways can the formula for change be useful for understanding both personal and organizational change? In episode 251 of At The Table, Patrick and Cody explore the so-called change equation, a simple yet powerful formula that explains why some change efforts succeed while others stall. Breaking it down into dissatisfaction, vision, and a first simple step—multiplied together—they show how these elements must outweigh resistance for change to occur. Topics explored in this episode: 0:55 – The Change Equation 3:17 – D: Dissatisfaction with the Current State * How leaders and individuals can identify and amplify dissatisfaction. 4:38 – V: Vision for a Better Future * The importance of painting a clear and compelling future state. 6:52 – F: The First Simple Step * Why a small, achievable action builds momentum and reduces overwhelm. 17:59 – R: Resistance to Change * How fear, comfort, and uncertainty fuel resistance. Here are some additional notes that relate to the equation explored in this episode: D × V…

How would your workplace culture change if love and service were driving forces? In episode 250 of At The Table, Pat and Cody introduce the concepts of BaaM (Business as a Ministry) and WaaM (Work as a Ministry). They explore how viewing business and work through the lens of service and love can create healthier workplaces and stronger organizations. Whether you’re leading a public company or managing a small team, this conversation will invite how you think about purpose, culture, and results. Topics explored in this episode: (0:32) Business as a Ministry (BaaM) * How businesses can be seen as a way to serve others with love, going beyond just the transactional goal of making money (3:10) The Case for Love in Business * Tim Sanders’ book Love Is the Killer App. * How fear-based businesses struggle while love-centered cultures thrive. * The challenge of applying BaaM in public companies. (5:48) Work as a Ministry (Waam) * WaaM can be useful for employees in less purpose-driven organizations. (8:07) Ministry…

How can you create a workforce of hungry people who aren't trying to prove their worth by the number of hours they work? And how can you help your coworkers build a sense of ownership and passion around their work? In episode 249 of At The Table, Pat and Cody explore why “hunger wins” when it comes to building competitive, effective teams. They challenge the misconception that long hours translate to productivity. They also reveal how to create sustainable competitiveness that inspires people to go above and beyond—without burning them out. Topics explored in this episode: (0:40) Hunger and Competitiveness * Global trends and misconceptions about competitiveness, including China’s 996 work model. (4:12) The Pitfalls of Overwork * Why excessive hours lead to burnout and inefficiency. (7:25) Hunger in Organizational Culture * Hunger can’t be legislated or regulated—it must be built into culture. * The importance of avoiding extremes, hiring the right people, and providing flexibility. (10:09) Ownership and…

How can leaders resist the ego-inflation that comes with praise and status? In episode 248 of At The Table, Pat and Cody reflect on the viral Coldplay kiss cam scandal—not to sensationalize it, but to draw important leadership lessons from it. They explore the dangers of ego, power, and isolation for leaders, particularly those who fail to stay grounded in their home life and faith. Topics explored in this episode: (0:56) When Praise Becomes Poison * Why the Coldplay incident is more than just clickbait—it’s a cautionary tale. (6:44) How Leaders Lose Their Way * "Reward-centered" versus "responsibility-centered" leadership mindsets. * Leaders often start believing praise, inflating their sense of entitlement. (9:08) Home vs. Work * Praise and affirmation at work can distort leaders’ expectations at home. * Leaders become vulnerable when they fail to invest emotionally in their families. (14:20) Guardrails and Hard Truths * Say out loud that your family is more important than work—and mean it. (20:26)…

Why might being “cool” make someone a dangerous person to work for? And why are some of the greatest leaders uncool? In episode 247 of At The Table, Pat and Cody challenge the cultural obsession with being “cool” and examine how it can corrupt leadership. Using a global study that defined six traits of coolness—especially “powerful” and “hedonistic”—they reveal how these values run counter to responsible leadership. Through stories, examples, and hard truths, they make the case that great leaders are often deeply uncool—and that's precisely what makes them trustworthy. Topics Patrick Lencioni and Cody Thompson explore in this episode: (3:39) The Six Traits of Cool * The hosts list the six cool traits: adventurous, autonomous, open, extroverted, powerful, and hedonistic. * Pat expresses deep concern about “powerful” and “hedonistic” being celebrated. (6:53) Cool Traits * Cody and Pat analyze “open,” “autonomous,” and “adventurous” as potentially valid for leaders. * They debate whether extroversion belongs in…

How does the broader culture of your location influence your organization’s internal culture? In episode 246 of At The Table, Patrick Lencioni and Cody Thompson explore how meta-culture—the broader geographic or societal environment—shapes the internal culture of organizations. From experiences at the DMV to moving company headquarters, they share insights on how values interact with location. Topics explored in this episode: (2:44) Organizational Culture Exists Within a Larger Culture * The macro culture of a city or state can either support or resist company values. * Remote work and multiple locations complicate maintaining a cohesive culture. (6:15) Moving Your Company * Leaders should consider not just financials but cultural fit when moving. * The meta-culture can affect hiring, operations, and team morale. * Certain locations make it easier to find people who reflect your values. * Some environments create cultural friction, while others foster cohesion. (9:35) Navigating Meta-Culture * Leaders should…

What are some universal traits of successful leaders that any leader in any field can emulate? In episode 245 of At The Table, Patrick Lencioni and Cody Thompson reflect on a remarkable leader they consider one of the greatest CEOs they’ve encountered—Tony Mazzella of Mazzella Companies. Tony’s approach to leadership is rooted in humility, deep responsibility, and a relentless desire to learn, all without seeking fame or recognition. This conversation breaks down the traits that make a truly great CEO, far beyond what the public eye ever sees. Topics explored in this episode: (2:42) Humility in Action * Tony’s humility is evident in how he shares credit and doesn’t perform for attention. (5:50) Identity & Integrity * Tony’s peace stems from knowing his identity isn’t tied to performance. (8:06) Responsibility and Motive * Tony makes tough calls because he cares deeply for people; there’s no entitlement—just ownership of his role. (10:28) Curiosity & Continued Growth * Tony proactively pursued his Working…

Are you missing out on innovation because you're avoiding discomfort? How can you embrace the tension that's required for innovation? In episode 244 of At The Table, Patrick Lencioni and Cody Thompson explore the crucial link between tension and innovation. They argue that real creativity requires discomfort—whether from interpersonal friction or environmental urgency. Through personal stories and business examples, they offer practical ways to embrace conflict and drive change before crisis strikes. Topics explored in this episode: (1:14) Tension Can Be Beneficial * Innovation is universally desired but rarely pursued. * True creativity demands both environmental and interpersonal tension. * Most teams avoid conflict until a crisis forces change. (3:52) Manufacturing Tension and Creativity * Cody discusses how companies often manufacture environmental tension to force innovation, especially when complacency sets in. * Pat connects innovation to creativity, drawing on his experience as an author and…

Why do so many successful leaders struggle with the feeling of "not being enough"? And how can leaders shift away from a scarcity mindset? In episode 243 of At The Table, Patrick Lencioni and Cody Thompson explore the pervasive feeling of inadequacy among leaders. They discuss how a "not enough" mindset can drive individuals to seek validation through constant achievement. The conversation emphasizes the importance of vulnerability, self-awareness, and shifting from a fear-based to a joy-based approach to life and work. Topics explored in this episode: (0:49) The Prevalence of "I'm Not Enough" * Many leaders share a common feeling of inadequacy, often tracing it back to their youth. * This feeling can create a cycle of constantly striving to prove yourself, hindering your ability to find satisfaction in accomplishments. (5:04) The Impact of Vulnerability * Sharing your feelings of inadequacy with others can normalize these experiences, encouraging them to acknowledge their own struggles and seek support.…

How do we as business leaders not be discouraged by hard times and instead see the good that can result from them? In episode 242 of At The Table, Patrick Lencioni welcomes legendary financial expert and leadership voice Dave Ramsey for an unfiltered conversation about hard times. As Pat mentions in the intro, this is not your average interview. They discuss the current economic and cultural moment, explore the importance of values-based leadership, and call out the failures of transactional mindsets. This episode challenges leaders to hold the line on integrity, even—and especially—when things get tough Topics explored in this episode: (2:46) The Ubiquity of Adversity * Leaders should expect to face new forms of adversity as they grow their business. * Adversity can distort one's perception, making challenges seem more overwhelming than they are. (8:24) The Genesis of a Calling * How Dave’s bankruptcy led him to discover his calling in helping others manage their finances. * Helping others through hardship…

What happens when the external validation of your success conflicts with your internal values and purpose? In episode 241 of At The Table, Pat Lencioni and Cody Thompson explore the hidden dangers of traditional success metrics. They also discuss how businesses and individuals can lose their way when they chase recognition that doesn’t align with their original purpose. Topics explored in this episode: (0:40) The Michelin Star Story * How a small restaurant in Italy gave up its Michelin star to stay true to its identity. (4:51) Aligning Success With Intentions * Why companies lose their way when they follow external expectations. * The importance of anchoring decisions to the question: "Why do we exist?" (8:46) Success and Personal Growth * Arthur Brooks' wisdom about valuing the process over outcomes. * How personal definitions of success change over time, especially in creative fields. (13:02) The Cost of Chasing the Wrong Goals * How woundedness can drive people to seek approval through achievements. *…

Why is it so difficult to reform government inefficiencies? And what can organizations and households learn from eliminating waste in large, public institutions? In episode #240 of At The Table, Pat and Cody explore the concept of government efficiency through the lens of organizational health. Drawing comparisons between the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE), the federal government, and dysfunctional teams, they highlight the painful necessity of accountability and cutting waste. Topics explored in this episode: (01:04) Reframing DOGE * The goal is to explore waste and accountability without partisan heat, looking instead at structure and culture. (6:09) Government vs. Private Sector * The federal government is not set up to be a team like private sector organizations. (10:47) The Storage Unit Analogy * Cody shares a story of trying to help a hoarder consolidate two storage units, which becomes a metaphor for government systems that resist change. (15:24) Accountability * Leadership requires doing…

How can we start to address unresolved challenges in our lives that impact people profoundly and sometimes in painful ways? In this episode, Patrick Lencioni and Cody Thompson discuss the podcast's return after a six-month break, and a shift in content to include broader societal and cultural issues. Pat also shares his personal journey of self-discovery, focusing on addressing his own wounds and trauma, and explores how this deeply personal work relates to leadership and organizational health. Topics explored in this episode: * (8:04) The Impact of Wounds on Leadership * How fear can drive leaders. * (11:58) The Catalyst for Self-Discovery * Pat’s realization that running from his issues was more painful than confronting them. * The temptation to deny your own wounds. * (16:34) The Universality of Wounds * Everyone has wounds, such as neglect, shame, rejection, and abandonment. * Healing is a lifelong process. * (21:14) Encouraging Healing * Addressing wounds sooner rather than later. This episode of At The…

We're taking a break from uploading new episodes this fall, but we're looking forward to a return in 2025. Thank you to all of our listeners! To take the Six Types of Working Genius Assessment: https://www.workinggenius.com/ Check out the 5 Dysfunctions of a Team Assessment: https://tinyurl.com/ttgteamassessment To become a Working Genius Certified Facilitator: https://www.workinggenius.com/client/certification/

We've mentioned in the past that we think the modern workplace is in a 'conflict drought'. This week, Pat, Cody and Beau discuss the relationship between trust and conflict, and get to the bottom of what we're really missing. To listen to the Working Genius Podcast: https://www.workinggenius.com/podcast This week's unpaid ad: https://tinyurl.com/movetocolorado

There are certain parts of an organization that cannot be changed without essentially refounding the whole company. This week, the team talks about core values. To listen to the Working Genius Podcast: https://www.workinggenius.com/podcast This week's unpaid ad: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Doughnut

Authority and humility are not mutually exclusive. This week, the team talks about the role of a leader and the importance of perspective, dignity, and self-awareness. To listen to the Working Genius Podcast: https://www.workinggenius.com/podcast Unpaid ad: https://tinyurl.com/golfscramblerules

To avoid pain at the expense of your core values and purpose is a terrible idea. This week, Pat and the team discuss the growth curve and how organizations must approach the navigation of inevitable downturns. To listen to the Working Genius Podcast: https://www.workinggenius.com/podcast The Leadr Advantage: https://www.leadr.com/table-group

The opposite of love isn't hate, it's indifference. This week, Pat and the team discuss the causes of mediocrity, and why it comes with costs beyond the financial. To listen to the Working Genius Podcast: https://www.workinggenius.com/podcast This week's unpaid ad: https://no.co/brands/noco-boost

Episode originally aired January 20th, 2021. One hour coaching hack: how your team can give and receive invaluable coaching feedback in less than an hour. Tune in to this week's episode to hear Pat, Cody and Tracy share some of their own feedback that has helped them grow in their work and life.

Episode originally aired July 8th, 2020. Stop waiting for "normal" to return. Do it now! Pat, Cody and Chris discuss decision making and action in the midst of uncertainty. In your businesses, in your families and in your personal lives, it's time to plant your friggin tree.

This episode originally aired March 10, 2021. We often avoid saying things that need to be said because we're afraid of sounding like a jerk. This week, Pat, Cody and Tracy talk about the importance of having the courage to be a "little-j jerk."