In the world of corporate training and leadership development, the importance of blended learning cannot be overstated. In our latest Leadership Story Talks podcast episode, Jerome and Julienne had the privilege of speaking with George Pesansky, a seasoned expert in operational excellence and the founder of Capacity to Care. George’s insights on leadership are not just theoretical; they are grounded in real-world experiences that resonate deeply with anyone looking to improve their leadership skills.
George emphasizes that traditional approaches to training often resemble a college experience, which may not be effective in the corporate environment. Instead, he advocates for a vocational approach, likening leadership training to learning a skill like welding or playing a musical instrument. This perspective highlights that while knowledge is important, it is the practice and experience that truly lead to mastery. As George famously states, ‘How do you get to Carnegie Hall? Practice, practice, practice.’ This mantra serves as a powerful reminder that continuous improvement is key to unlocking one’s full potential.
Throughout the episode, George shares his personal journey, including a formative experience from his high school years. Despite not being a talented athlete, he learned the value of perseverance and the importance of focusing on personal growth rather than comparing himself to others. This mindset has shaped his consulting practice, where he helps individuals and teams find their potential and strive for improvement.
One of the most compelling concepts George introduces is the ‘golden hour’—the idea that there is no clock on perfection. He encourages leaders to focus on sustaining successes rather than dwelling on failures. By shifting the narrative to celebrate achievements, organizations can foster a culture of continuous improvement and empowerment.
Moreover, George highlights the significance of empathy in leadership. He shares anecdotes from his work in manufacturing, where understanding the challenges faced by employees can lead to transformative changes. By spending time in break rooms and truly listening to team members, leaders can gain valuable insights that can drive performance and morale.
As we wrapped up our conversation, George left us with a powerful call to action: professionals should consider how they can donate their talents to nonprofit organizations. This notion of giving back not only enriches communities but also enhances personal fulfilment and growth.
If you’re looking to enhance your leadership skills, drive change within your organization, or simply gain practical insights into operational excellence, this episode is a must-listen.
