What if the real reason workplace engagement hasn't budged in 30 years is because we've made leadership too complicated?

In this kickoff to a powerful new content partnership, Nikki introduces Dr. Ryan Darby, organizational psychologist, leadership simplifier, and founder of WorkStrong. Ryan's not here for hype. He's here for habits. Drawing from his deep experience with 34Strong and years of leading large-scale engagement work, Ryan shares why most leadership development fails, and how a simpler, more actionable approach can finally move the needle.

You'll hear the backstory of Work Strong's creation, rooted in real gaps spotted inside thriving companies. You'll also get a sneak peek into the upcoming "Work Doesn't Work (Anymore)" series and why Ryan believes the future of leadership lies in emotional regulation, discipline, and better listening, not more content.

This one's a rally cry for people-first leaders ready to stop admiring the problem and start doing what actually works.

Additional Resources:

Connect with Dr. Ryan Darby on LinkedIn

Watch Gut + Science (and more) on YouTube!

Connect with Nikki on LinkedIn

Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn

Learn more about PeopleForward Network

Nikki's Key Takeaways:

• Leadership is a skill, not a knowledge dump.
• Engagement won't shift without habit-driven systems.
• Listening is thinking. Learn how your brain hears.
• Simplify leadership: action over theory.
• Good leadership demands emotional regulation and resilience.