130: Dr. Zach Mercurio — The Hidden Engine of High-Performing Teams: Mattering, Trust, and Purpose-Driven Leadership

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In this conversation, Dr. Zach Mercurio discusses the importance of creating a sense of purpose and mattering within teams. He emphasizes that feeling valued is a basic human instinct and that leaders play a crucial role in fostering an environment where everyone feels significant. The discussion covers the psychological impacts of not feeling like one matters, the barriers leaders face in demonstrating care, and practical strategies for enhancing team dynamics through small, intentional interactions. The conversation ultimately highlights the shift from traditional command-and-control leadership to a more trust-based approach that prioritizes relationships and emotional intelligence.

00:00 Creating a Sense of Purpose in Teams

02:10 Understanding the Cost of Not Mattering

04:28 The Role of Leaders in Mattering

07:56 The Importance of Mattering in Work and Life

11:41 Barriers to Caring in Leadership

16:10 The Shift from Command and Control to Trust-Based Leadership

19:35 Leading Indicators vs. Lagging Indicators

23:28 The Power of Small Interactions

28:59 Practical Actions for Leaders to Show Mattering

44:26 Noticing, Affirming, and Needing in Leadership