ACHIEVE Workplace Culture

Fair isn’t Always Equal

ACHIEVE Centre for Leadership — Thu, 02 Apr 2026 13:00:00 +0000

In Episode 63 of the ACHIEVE Workplace Culture Podcast, Eric, Wendy and Chris explore why treating people equally doesn’t always produce fair or effective results at work. They discuss how different employees need different levels of direction, autonomy, and support to perform well. They also address how fairness concerns can arise when one person receives additional supports, recommending leaders ask what the concerned person needs rather than defending another employee’s accommodations. The episode emphasizes noticing differences, leveraging strengths, avoiding over-reliance on policies, and creating workplaces where people’s talents are seen and supported.

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Episode 62: Bridging the Gap: Transforming Your Leadership Approach

ACHIEVE Centre for Leadership — Thu, 19 Mar 2026 13:00:00 +0000

In episode 62 of the ACHIEVE Workplace Culture Podcast, Wendy and Chris discuss why leadership is central to workplace culture. Chris shares being pushed into leadership too early, initially copying flawed models that misused power, and later being challenged with the question, “What kind of leader do you want to be?” He describes leadership as an ongoing practice, notes his continued challenge with providing clarity, and emphasizes that leaders affect people beyond work, encouraging leaders to take responsibility, grow incrementally, and go easy on themselves.

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Leadership Insights: When to Solve and When to Support

ACHIEVE Centre for Leadership — Thu, 05 Mar 2026 14:00:00 +0000

In episode 61 of the ACHIEVE Workplace Culture Podcast, Eric, Chris, and Wendy discuss a leader’s role when someone brings them a workplace problem. While leaders may ultimately help problems get solved, they warn against jumping in with immediate solutions except in crises or ethical situations. Instead, they recommend making time to listen, clarifying what the real issue is, asking what the person wants from the conversation, and exploring what they have already tried and what options exist. When sharing wisdom, they emphasize the order of operations, asking permission, and offering experience rather than prescriptive advice, keeping the focus on the other person’s situation.

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Rebuilding Trust in the Workplace

ACHIEVE Centre for Leadership — Thu, 26 Feb 2026 17:41:14 +0000

In episode 60 of the ACHIEVE Workplace Culture Podcast, Eric, Wendy and Chris explore trust, specifically how it gets broken and what leaders can do to rebuild it. They share practical approaches for repair, such as acknowledging impact, checking in with others, listening without excuses, apologizing when appropriate, and committing to changed behaviour. Listen along to learn how you can rebuild trust in your workplace.

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Are Leaders too Vulnerable?

ACHIEVE Centre for Leadership — Wed, 04 Feb 2026 22:10:56 +0000

Is vulnerability an actual leadership skill? In this episode of The Achieve Workplace Culture Podcast, Eric, Wendy, and Chris break down what healthy vulnerability actually looks like at work.

What’s inside:

The difference between real vulnerability vs. unhelpful oversharing
How to be authentic without offloading your anxiety
Why trust isn’t just predictability—it’s showing up in uncertainty
How power and privilege shape who can be vulnerable
Concrete ways to lead with honesty and emotional boundaries

If you care about trust, psychological safety, and leading with positive impact, this episode is for you.

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A leader's learning journey

ACHIEVE Centre for Leadership — Thu, 29 Jan 2026 13:17:00 +0000

How do you continue to grow as a leader? Join us as Wendy shares her evolution from educator to executive, revealing practical strategies for building learning habits and making space for personal development.

Discover how self-driven learning fuels workplace culture and get tips you can use today to lead with intention and impact. Perfect for business owners and organizational leaders who want to shape the future - starting with themselves.

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Delegate Like a CEO: The Secret to Scaling Leadership

ACHIEVE Centre for Leadership — Thu, 22 Jan 2026 13:50:00 +0000

If you’re still doing too much yourself, you’re holding your team, and your business, back.

In this episode, hosts Wendy Loewen and Eric Stutzman unpack how strategic delegation drives culture, performance, and leadership growth.

What’s inside:

Why delegation isn’t just dumping tasks, but developing your people
The real reason leaders resist delegation (spoiler: a fear of losing control)
How letting go can spark innovation, increase trust, and build resilience
Stories from Eric and Wendy on how smart delegation changed their leadership game A simple framework to help you:
Identify what only you can do
Match the right person to the right responsibility
Set up accountability without micromanaging

Whether you’re a new manager or a seasoned executive, you’ll walk away with practical tools to delegate with confidence and scale your impact.

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The value of Values

ACHIEVE Centre for Leadership — Thu, 15 Jan 2026 18:08:41 +0000

Join Eric, Wendy, and Chris as they uncover how clearly defined values shape workplace culture. Learn why values matter, how to make them actionable, and practical ways to keep them alive in your team. Packed with real stories and tips, this episode will help you anchor your culture and inspire your people.

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R-E-S-P-E-C-T at Work: How Leaders Hit the High Note

ACHIEVE Centre for Leadership — Thu, 08 Jan 2026 14:18:00 +0000

In this lively episode, Eric, Chris, and Wendy unpack what it truly means to foster a culture of respect in the workplace. From the power of being seen and heard, to why curiosity beats judgment, they explore how leadership can transform tolerance into active, meaningful respect. Tune in for real stories, practical takeaways, and memorable insights on individual and cultural respect—plus steps leaders can take right now to build a team that truly sings together.

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Preparing for Uncertainty in 2026

ACHIEVE Centre for Leadership — Thu, 01 Jan 2026 05:58:00 +0000

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.

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Choosing Your Leadership Identity, Before It Chooses You

ACHIEVE Centre for Leadership — Thu, 18 Dec 2025 18:00:00 +0000

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.

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The Leader You Think You Are vs. The One Your Team Knows

ACHIEVE Centre for Leadership — Thu, 11 Dec 2025 15:51:00 +0000

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.

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Should You Encourage Disagreement in the Workplace?

ACHIEVE Centre for Leadership — Thu, 04 Dec 2025 14:00:00 +0000

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.

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Can Leadership Lessons Come from Unlikely Places?

ACHIEVE Centre for Leadership — Thu, 27 Nov 2025 14:00:00 +0000

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!

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Does Curiosity Improve Workplace Culture?

ACHIEVE Centre for Leadership — Thu, 20 Nov 2025 14:00:00 +0000

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.

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Can You Have Too Much Fun at Work?

ACHIEVE Centre for Leadership — Thu, 16 Oct 2025 21:37:38 +0000

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.

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Reconciliation in the Workplace: Building Meaningful Relationships

ACHIEVE Centre for Leadership — Thu, 18 Sep 2025 15:08:39 +0000

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.

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Leading with Insight

ACHIEVE Centre for Leadership — Thu, 14 Aug 2025 13:00:00 +0000

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.

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Developing Leaders, Building Culture

ACHIEVE Centre for Leadership — Thu, 17 Jul 2025 15:09:27 +0000

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.

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Polarity Management: Balancing Workplace Dynamics for a Healthy Culture

ACHIEVE Centre for Leadership — Thu, 19 Jun 2025 18:34:27 +0000

This week, [someone], [someone else] and [another person] cover [topic].....

In this episode of the Achieve Workplace Culture Podcast, co-hosts Eric Stutzman and Wendy Loewen, joined by special guest David Jung, delve into the concept of polarity management within workplace culture. They cover common polarities like change vs. stability, individual vs. team focus, and on-site vs. remote work. Listeners will gain insights into identifying and managing these polarities to foster a balanced and effective work environment. The episode also includes practical strategies for recognizing when polarities are at play and integrating these concepts into organizational values and daily operations.

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Building Workplace Connections: Strategies for Shared Identity

ACHIEVE Centre for Leadership — Thu, 15 May 2025 17:24:56 +0000

What does it really mean to feel a sense of belonging at work—and how do you create that without sacrificing individual identity? In this episode, Eric Stutzman, Chris Downey, and Wendy Loewen dive deep into the role of shared identity in cultivating a healthy workplace culture.

From whiteout parties in Winnipeg to personal stories about visual markers and onboarding rituals, the team explores how people thrive when they feel like they're part of something bigger—without losing what makes them unique.

You’ll learn:

Why belonging is essential for well-being and workplace performance
How to use stories, symbols, and shared purpose to foster connection
The importance of onboarding, accountability, and visual identity
What remote and hybrid teams can do to intentionally create belonging
How moments of challenge or success can build stronger teams

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Light the Fire Within: Navigating Middle Management

ACHIEVE Centre for Leadership — Thu, 17 Apr 2025 16:00:08 +0000

In this episode, Eric Stutzman and Chris Downey are joined by special guest and podcast producer Scott McKay—long-time listener and first-time co-host—to answer real questions gathered from middle managers across their organisation. The team dives deep into the realities, challenges, and responsibilities of middle management, including how to lead with care and clarity when you’re not the one making the big decisions. Key topics include: 🔹 Communicating decisions you don’t fully agree with—while maintaining trust 🔹 Encouraging honest feedback from newer employees 🔹 Balancing autonomy and accountability without micromanaging 🔹 The art of “managing up” and how to influence without authority 🔹 Why lighting a fire within people beats lighting a fire under them

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The Power Dynamic: How It Shapes Workplace Culture

ACHIEVE Centre for Leadership — Fri, 21 Mar 2025 14:44:07 +0000

In this episode of the ACHIEVE Workplace Culture Podcast, Chris Downey and Wendy Loewen explore the often-overlooked topic of power dynamics in the workplace. With special guest Jeff Couillard, co-CEO and Chief Learning Architect at The Ally Co, they dive into how power—both seen and unseen—affects culture, leadership, and organisational change. Key takeaways include:

The five different types of power in the workplace
How leaders unknowingly misuse power—and how to correct it
The connection between power, burnout, and engagement
Why self-awareness isn’t enough—leaders need other-awareness
Practical strategies for leaders to foster psychological safety and feedback Plus, hear Jeff’s powerful insights on why self-care is ethical, not optional, and how leaders can balance authority while fostering collaboration. Resources & Links: • Fixable Podcast (Frances Frei & Anne Morriss) • At Work with The Ready Podcast • All About Love by Bell Hooks

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Is It Time to Assess Your Workplace Culture?

ACHIEVE Centre for Leadership — Fri, 21 Feb 2025 14:33:41 +0000

In this episode, we dive into a crucial question: How do you know if you need to assess your workplace culture? We explore the warning signs of cultural misalignment, share real-world stories of organizational challenges, and provide actionable strategies for leaders at all levels.

Here’s what we cover:

The importance of continuous culture assessment
Recognizing the subtle (and not-so-subtle) signs of culture breakdown
How values, behaviours, and systems must align for long-term success
The role of leadership and middle management in shaping culture

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Socializing Change: Building a Collaborative Culture

ACHIEVE Centre for Leadership — Thu, 16 Jan 2025 16:43:34 +0000

Change is inevitable in the workplace, but how it’s managed can make or break your organization’s culture. In this episode, we unpack the concept of “socializing change”—an approach that transforms uncertainty into opportunity by putting people at the center of the process.

Here’s what we cover: • The impact of rapid technological and societal changes on workplace dynamics. • Why engaging employees early in the change process fosters trust and collaboration. • Lessons from real-world examples: a salary shift that failed and a digital transformation that created resistance. • Actionable strategies for leaders, including transparent communication, empathy-driven problem-solving, and creative storytelling.

We also spotlight Humans Are Underrated by Geoff Colvin, exploring the human traits—empathy, collaborative creativity, and storytelling—that are essential for shaping a positive workplace culture during times of change.

Whether you’re a leader navigating transformation or someone passionate about workplace culture, this episode is packed with insights to help you lead with purpose and build a stronger, more connected team.

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Team Building That Actually Builds Culture

ACHIEVE Centre for Leadership — Thu, 19 Dec 2024 18:22:15 +0000

In this episode, we break down how to plan intentional team-building events that go beyond your average trust fall. Go from fun-for-fun’s-sake to real results—this is about creating experiences that:

Strengthen workplace culture
Foster meaningful connections
Align with your organization’s values and goals

We’ll show you how to make team-building a powerful tool for growth, collaboration, and culture transformation.

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Building Bridges: Navigating Polarizing Conversations at Work

ACHIEVE Centre for Leadership — Thu, 21 Nov 2024 18:21:35 +0000

In this episode, we explore polarizing topics in the workplace and the leader’s role in equipping a team to navigate these discussions in productive ways. With actionable insights and practical tips, discover how to turn challenging conversations into opportunities to build a stronger workplace culture.

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Do you want to be right, or learn?

ACHIEVE Centre for Leadership — Thu, 17 Oct 2024 16:35:07 +0000

What happens when employees don’t feel safe owning up to their mistakes? We explore the risks organizations face when trust is lacking and how team safety plays a crucial role in creating a growing and thriving culture. Join us as we break down practical strategies to foster openness, accountability, and resilience in teams when mistakes happen.

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The Hidden Costs of Neglecting Leadership Wellness

ACHIEVE Centre for Leadership — Thu, 19 Sep 2024 16:54:42 +0000

In this episode, we talk about the paradox of leadership wellness—how taking time off can actually be one of the most productive things a leader does, but that wellness comes from many sources including our approach to work itself. We argue that leaders who prioritize their own well-being play a vital role in shaping positive workplace culture, fostering a more engaged and productive environment for their teams. We also reference Time Off by Max Frenzel, discussing how intentional rest and balance can empower leaders to bring their best selves to work.