Beyond Purpose: Why Mattering Comes First with Zach Mercurio

In this episode of Facilitating Change, Cole talks with Zach Mercurio about the critical yet often overlooked concept of mattering, which is the fundamental human need to feel significant to the people around us. The conversation explores how we're experiencing not just a loneliness epidemic or disengagement crisis, but a mattering deficit where people feel unseen, unheard, and undervalued in their daily interactions. Zach shares powerful stories from his work with organizations ranging from airlines to electronics companies, demonstrating how small moments of genuine connection can transform entire workplace cultures.

Throughout their discussion, Zach emphasizes the crucial distinction between having a job that matters and experiencing mattering in your job. He explores how leaders can create cultures where people feel noticed, affirmed, and needed through specific, learnable skills rather than relying on programs or initiatives. The conversation shares some practical approaches for showing people their significance, including the powerful practice of "laddering" that NASA used to help every employee, from physicists to janitors, connect their daily work to putting a person on the moon.

Their conversation concludes with actionable ways for anyone seeking to weave more mattering into their work and communities. Zach reminds us that while we can't control how others treat us, we can commit to showing people how they matter in our everyday interactions, and that our next great leadership act is really in our next interaction.

Show notes:

• Learn more about Zach's work and access free resources, including a mattering self-assessment: https://www.zachmercurio.com/mattering
• Get a copy of "The Power of Mattering: How Leaders Can Create a Culture Where Everyone Thrives"
• Check out Zach’s course on mattering skills for leaders: https://www.zachmercurio.com/mattering-class-for-leaders/