Episode 323: Why Imperfect Leaders Make the Biggest Difference with Neil Ghosh

Written By Erin Diehl
 
 
 

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In this episode of Workday Playdate, Erin sits down with Neil Ghosh to how leadership requires purpose more than it requires perfection. 

Neil, author of Do More Good, makes the case that real impact is born from imperfect humans taking small, intentional actions rooted in empathy. 

Why Imperfection Is a Leadership Advantage 

Neil reframes imperfection as a trust-builder, not a liability. When leaders stop performing competence and start modeling humanity, teams feel safer to take risks, speak up, and grow. Progress beats polish—every time. 

Purpose-Driven Actions Beat Burnout 

Purpose doesn’t shout; it whispers. Neil shares how grounding decisions in values helps leaders avoid burnout, make clearer choices, and stay connected to why their work matters in the first place. 

Empathy is a Practice 

Empathy is perspective. Neil breaks down how leaders can pause judgment, see through others’ eyes, and create environments where people feel understood before they’re evaluated. 

Small Actions, Big Impact: The GEMSS Model 

At the heart of the conversation is Neil’s GEMSS model—a framework for micro-philanthropy and proactive living that proves meaningful change doesn’t require more time, money, or authority. It requires intention, consistency, and the courage to start small. 

Building Inclusive, Proactive Environments 

Inclusive cultures don’t happen by accident. Neil and Erin unpack how leaders can design workplaces where unity doesn’t mean uniformity—and where empathy and action fuel innovation and results. 

Your Play Challenge 

This week, choose one small action that aligns with your values. 

Ask: “What’s one way I can do more good right where I am?” 

Then do it imperfectly, on purpose. 

Your Freebie 

You’ve tried the emails, the all-hands rollout, and the polished decks, but the vision still isn’t landing. 

That’s because people don’t buy into a vision that’s presented to them; they buy into one they help shape.  

The 30-Minute Vision-Setting Meeting Template gives you a simple, human-centered way to create alignment, spark ownership, and build real momentum. Download it here.

No, You Hang Up First (Let’s Keep Connecting) 

  • Did today’s episode resonate with you? Leave us a review sharing your favorite insight and we’ll send you a free signed copy of I See You! A Leader’s Guide to Energizing Your Team through Radical Empathy. 

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Connect with Neil Ghosh 

  • Neil’s article: “How leaders can be transparent about their belief systems without alienating anyone” 

  • Neil’s article: “In an Age of Chaos, Leadership Starts with Doing the Right Thing” 

Connect with Erin Diehl x improve it! 

 
Erin Diehl
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Episode 324: Stop Setting Goals. Do This Instead.
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Episode 322: Words Are Wands: Why Your Inner Dialogue Shapes What's About to Happen