In this episode of Unboxing OD, host Kenneth Pearson takes us into one of the most delicate and defining aspects of organizational development - what happens when your findings reveal something uncomfortable, something that leadership might not be ready to hear.
OD practitioners are often asked to assess culture, diagnose issues, and present a path forward. But what happens when the data tells a harder story? One of broken trust, misaligned values, or leadership that’s lost touch? How do you tell the truth without losing your seat at the table?
Through reflective insight and field-based strategies, Kenneth explores how to approach difficult diagnoses with integrity, care, and precision. You’ll hear how framing, timing, sequencing, and narrative can transform uncomfortable truths into catalysts for change. This episode also offers guidance on holding the room during challenging conversations, honoring the voices of employees, and choosing courage over comfort, even when it comes at a cost.
Whether you’re new to the field or deep in the practice, this is a conversation about truth-telling, discernment, and the deeper responsibility of OD work.
So grab a cup of coffee, and join us as we explore what it really means to speak the truth - especially when it hurts.
SUPPORT THE SHOW: https://www.buzzsprout.com/2430745/support
CONNECT WITH KENNETH:
- LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kenneth-pearson
- Pearson & Pearson LLC: www.pearsonpearson.llc
- E-Mail: info@pearsonpearson.llc
TO ORDER "THE FLOW OF FIVE TIERS":
Buy The Flow of Five Tiers: A Framework for Structuring High-Functioning Organizations (20% Off)
THE 21-DAY LEADERSHIP REALIGNMENT
https://www.pearsonpearson.llc/21-day-leadership-realignment
THE 1:1 PATHFINDING SESSION
https://calendly.com/kenneth-pearson/pathfinding-session
Popular Podcasts
On Purpose with Jay Shetty
I’m Jay Shetty host of On Purpose the worlds #1 Mental Health podcast and I’m so grateful you found us. I started this podcast 5 years ago to invite you into conversations and workshops that are designed to help make you happier, healthier and more healed. I believe that when you (yes you) feel seen, heard and understood you’re able to deal with relationship struggles, work challenges and life’s ups and downs with more ease and grace. I interview experts, celebrities, thought leaders and athletes so that we can grow our mindset, build better habits and uncover a side of them we’ve never seen before. New episodes every Monday and Friday. Your support means the world to me and I don’t take it for granted — click the follow button and leave a review to help us spread the love with On Purpose. I can’t wait for you to listen to your first or 500th episode!
Stuff You Should Know
If you've ever wanted to know about champagne, satanism, the Stonewall Uprising, chaos theory, LSD, El Nino, true crime and Rosa Parks, then look no further. Josh and Chuck have you covered.
The Joe Rogan Experience
The official podcast of comedian Joe Rogan.