Leadership and Decision-Making | BizBuzz Podcast – E#-124
Welcome to What Matters the Most in Your Business! In this episode, host Sreedhar Kaluva speaks with Bernie Kerschbaum, founder and CEO of Skalios and chair of a Vistage chapter in Michigan, as they continue the Love to Uplift series. This conversation explores how leaders can build a positive workplace culture through thoughtful communication, constructive feedback, and a coaching-orientated approach to decision-making.
First, Bernie explains why meaningful cultural change must begin with the owner or CEO. Leaders set the standard for how employees communicate, handle mistakes, and make decisions. By demonstrating curiosity instead of criticism, business leaders can create an environment where team members feel comfortable learning, improving, and taking responsibility.
Next, the discussion highlights the importance of choosing words carefully during difficult conversations. Instead of calling a decision wrong, leaders can describe it as “not the optimum one” and ask questions such as “Help me understand” or “Tell me more.” This approach encourages employees to explain their reasoning, reflect on their choices, and identify opportunities for improvement without feeling blamed or discouraged.
Moreover, Bernie emphasises that effective communication goes beyond words. Tone of voice, genuine curiosity, and an open heart all influence how a message is received. When leaders approach conversations with empathy and a willingness to understand, they can build trust, strengthen relationships, and turn challenging situations into valuable learning experiences.
Another key insight focuses on reviewing lost sales and business mistakes. Bernie explains how leaders can use role-playing exercises, including stepping into the prospect’s position, to understand what happened during a sales conversation. This practical technique helps teams identify missed opportunities, improve their sales approach, and make better decisions in future customer interactions.
Furthermore, the episode explores how a mistake worth $5,000 can become an opportunity to achieve a $7,000 win on the next decision when it is handled with curiosity and a commitment to learning. Rather than focusing on blame, leaders can use these experiences to develop stronger judgement, improve team performance, and support long-term business growth.
Finally, Bernie shares how the principles of Love to Uplift extend beyond the workplace. The same habits of listening, understanding, and responding with empathy can strengthen relationships with family members and contribute to healthier communities. By making these practices part of everyday life, leaders can create a lasting positive impact both professionally and personally.
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📩 Questions for Bernie? Reach him at bernie@scalios.com.
🔗 Explore MyWorkBelt: https://myworkbelt.com
In conclusion, this episode offers practical insights into leadership development, employee coaching, effective communication, decision-making, and building a positive workplace culture. If you want to become a more thoughtful leader, turn mistakes into learning opportunities, and create a culture where people feel empowered to grow, this conversation with Bernie Kerschbaum is worth watching.