CHANGE@WORK

In today’s fast-moving business environment, leaders are facing a communication crisis—too many acronyms, too much noise, and too little clarity. In this episode, Chris Thornton [https://daggerwinggroup.com/leadership/chris-thornton/] sits down with Ben Feller [https://maslansky.com/2022/05/26/ben-feller-joins-maslansky-and-partners/], former White House correspondent and partner at maslansky + partners [https://maslansky.com/], to talk about the power of language in driving change. Ben shares lessons from his time covering two U.S. presidents, coaching executives, and even parenting—revealing why it’s not what you say, but what they hear that truly matters. He breaks down how companies can avoid communication pitfalls, engage employees in times of uncertainty, and navigate hot-button topics like DEI and ESG without losing their audience. Plus, hear why so many leaders make the mistake of assuming people understand their message—and what to do instead. Whether you're leading a business, managing a team, or just trying to get people on board with a new idea, this conversation will help you rethink the way you communicate.

Tiana Ritchell is a Principal at Daggerwing Group and expert at operationalizing ESG & sustainability strategies. She has worked with General Mills and other partners to achieve their ambitious goals. In this episode of Change@Work, Tiana and host Chris Thornton explore the significant challenges organizations are facing when it comes to making their sustainability and ESG goals a reality. How does an organization prioritize their efforts? How can you ensure that leaders are bought into the changes that need to happen? Tiana shares how successful organizations are pushing past communications plans to engage with all areas of the business in a way that sets clear accountabilities while also providing the resources and education so people across the organization can meet their new sustainability expectations. Learn more at DoChangeRight.com [https://dochangeright.com/].

Dr Brian von Herzen, Founder and Executive Director of the Climate Foundation – a nonprofit organization dedicated to regenerating ocean ecosystems through marine permaculture technology — joins this episode of Change@Work. He and host, Chris Thornton, discuss how his work addresses gaps in food security caused by climate disruption, how his background as a Systems Engineer inspired him to tackle one of humanity’s most pressing challenges, and what gives him hope today for the future of our oceans and planet.

Dr. Mary Barnes is the Founder and CEO of Evolve Your Performance, a consultancy that aims to empower executives to deliver transformational change and maximize employee potential. With a doctorate in human and organizational learning and over two decades of experience, Mary developed the Transformation Reset Audit as a tool for clients navigating change implementation. In this episode of Change@Work, she and host Chris Thornton explore 14 common pitfalls that derail change initiatives, strategies for getting change back on course, and practical tips for measuring progress without surveys.

Sara Polon, Co-Founder and CEO of Soupergirl [https://thesoupergirl.com/] -- a natural, plant-based, kosher, and sustainably sourced soup company -- joins this episode of Change@Work. The comedian-turned-food entrepreneur and host, Chris Thornton discuss Sara's journey to soup-making, the challenges and joys of being a small business owner in the food and beverage industry, and the role consumers play in creating a more sustainable and equitable future when buying packaged foods.