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Say It Skillfully® – Bob Whalen, Creating Value for the Long-term
Say It Skillfully® is a show that helps you to benefit from Molly Tschang’s expert guidance on the best possible ways to speak your mind at work in a positive and productive manner. In Episode 108, Bob Whalen shares his unexpected journey to becoming CEO of a company with the ambition of lasting 200 years under employee ownership! Eldest of four boys, Bob’s leadership training started at a young age. While he was the first of his family to actually go to college, it was always the expectation. Bob shares the impact and valuable lessons of both of his parents, including the words of his mother—“nobody is better than you, and you are no better than anyone else.” Along with his sports upbringing, this paved the way not only for his college decisions, but also for the evolution of his business values. With lightness, Bob shares how “he had no idea” what job he’d do after college, and offers one of his “cringeworthy” learning moments, showing how senior leaders must continuously learn. He stresses the importance of being receptive to feedback and admitting mistakes, and opens up about the beginning of the pandemic when he told his workers that it’s their societal duty to get vaccinated. After receiving feedback and reflecting, Bob concluded that while he does strongly feel this way, it’s not his job as CEO to choose what his employees’ values should be. Learn also about the company’s successful acquisition strategy. Join Bob and Molly for an engaging discussion about the impact of family, taking risk and leading in a way that creates meaningfulness in people’s lives. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation that will help you learn how to navigate work while being invaluable and true to yourself. Read more to learn how a 100-year-old company plans to reach its 200th anniversary https://www.tugboatinstitute.com/a-100-year-old-companys-plan-to-reach-its-200th-anniversary/ Molly's thought for the week (Thank you Bob): Strive to be the best version of yourself. Get a little bit better each day.