Building Better Managers is a podcast from New Level Work, dedicated to helping leaders at every level create thriving, productive, and people-focused workplaces. Each episode features insightful conversations with leadership experts and organizational thinkers on topics like leadership development, coaching, communication, culture, productivity, employee engagement, and accountability. We believe people don't leave companies—they leave managers. Our mission is to equip leaders with the tools,…
In this episode of Building Better Managers , produced by New Level Work , we explore one of the most high-leverage skills a manager can develop: coaching. Coaching isn't about having all the answers—it's about helping your team find their own. By learning how to ask powerful questions, guide problem-solving, and create an environment of trust, you can turn everyday interactions into meaningful…
In this episode of Building Better Managers , produced by New Level Work , we dive into one of the most stressful and avoided parts of leadership: the difficult conversation. Whether you're giving tough feedback to a direct report, navigating a peer conflict, or even managing up, these high-stakes dialogs can easily go off the rails. But they don't have to. We break down a practical two-part…
In this episode of Building Better Managers , produced by New Level Work, we explore one of the most underrated yet high-impact tools in a manager's toolkit: the one-on-one meeting . While many treat one-on-ones as routine check-ins or status updates, top-performing managers know they're so much more. When done right, one-on-ones are a strategic space to build trust, drive clarity, and accelerate…
In this episode of Building Better Managers , produced by New Level Work, we dive into one of the most underestimated leadership superpowers: listening . At a time when hybrid work, constant pings, and AI overload are stealing our attention, truly listening —with focus, curiosity, and empathy—has become a lost art. But it doesn't have to be. We explore the key techniques and mindset shifts from…
In this episode of Building Better Managers, we explore one of the most essential tools in every leader's toolkit: giving effective feedback. We introduce the SBI Model — Situation, Behavior, Impact, a practical, repeatable framework adapted from the Center for Creative Leadership. Whether you're delivering constructive feedback or reinforcing great work, SBI helps managers communicate with…
In this encore episode of Building Better Managers, host Wendy Hanson talks with experts Karolin Helbig and Minette Norman to explore the critical concept of psychological safety in the workplace. They discuss the importance of creating an environment where employees feel safe to express themselves, share ideas, and take risks without fear of negative consequences. The conversation covers…
In this encore episode of Building Better Managers, host Wendy Hanson engages with Marlene Chism to explore the complexities of conflict in the workplace. They discuss the importance of developing conflict capacity, emotional integrity, and leadership clarity. Marlene emphasizes the need for leaders to confront their inner narratives and the impact of organizational culture on conflict resolution.…
In this encore episode of Building Better Managers, host Wendy Hanson discusses the importance of self-care for leaders with management consultant Liz Kislik. They explore effective time management strategies, the distinction between empathy and compassion, and the structural solutions that can support self-care in the workplace. The conversation emphasizes the need for leaders to model self-care,…
In this episode of Building Better Managers, host Wendy Hanson engages in a deep conversation with Chris Wells, VP of EMEA at New Level Work, about the intersections of sales, HR, and learning and development. They explore the importance of personal connections in sales, the similarities between HR and sales professionals, and the common blind spots in leadership development programs. The…
Host Wendy Hanson engages with Kristine Ellis, Director of Talent Development at GuideWell, to explore the complexities of leadership in the healthcare sector. They discuss the unique challenges faced by healthcare leaders, the innovative use of AI in management, and the importance of coaching and collaboration in fostering a supportive work environment. The conversation also highlights strategies…