Can Workplaces Energize Employees Instead of Draining Them? | Leadership Podcast with Dr. Rob Lion

Are you tired of workplaces that leave employees burned out and disengaged? In this transformative episode, host Jason Rigby sits down with Dr. Rob Lion, a renowned workplace culture expert, strategist, and professor at Idaho State University, to explore a bold idea: workplaces can—and should—energize employees rather than drain them.

Dr. Lion introduces his revolutionary human-centered leadership framework, challenging outdated "command-and-control" models with a fresh approach rooted in vulnerability, well-being, and trust. Whether you're an emerging leader or a C-suite veteran, this episode delivers actionable strategies to rethink leadership, boost team performance, and create a workplace that fuels the human spirit.

Get ready to ditch burnout culture and unlock the secrets to sustainable, inspiring leadership!

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🎙️ Featured Guest: Dr. Rob Lion

• Title: Strategist & Professor, Black River Performance Management
• Bio: With over two decades of experience in human resource development and organizational behavior, Dr. Rob Lion is a trailblazer in workplace transformation. As a professor at Idaho State University and founder of Black River Performance Management, he empowers organizations—spanning tech, education, and government—to prioritize people over processes. A self-described Taoist, Rob fuses psychology, strategy, and real-world insights to help leaders thrive. Off the clock, he’s an avid fly fisherman and mountain biker.
• Mission: "Work should fuel the human spirit, not drain it."
• Website: blackriverpm.com

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🗝️ Key Topics Covered

1. Human-Centered Leadership Unveiled

• The Fall of "Tough Guy" Leadership: Why authoritarian styles are losing relevance in modern workplaces.
• Vulnerability as Strength: How embracing authenticity and openness builds trust and fosters stronger teams.
• The Employee Empowerment Shift: Today’s workforce has options—they’re curating their lives, not just clocking in.

2. Fueling the Human Spirit

• Dr. Lion’s Core Philosophy: Work shouldn’t leave you running on empty—it should leave your tank half full.
• Psychology of Well-Being: The trifecta of thriving—competence, autonomy, and connection—and how leaders can cultivate them.
• Practical Takeaways: Small changes leaders can implement to boost morale and energy.

3. Overcoming Leadership Obstacles

• New Leader Struggles: The biggest pitfalls—ignorance of blind spots and fear of asking questions.
• Consistency is King: Why predictable leadership (even with quirks) outshines erratic, emotional swings.
• Building Resilience: Tips for staying steady amid workplace chaos.

4. Leader Well-Being in a Grind Culture

• The Trap to Avoid: The unsustainable “Monster-drinking