Discover why traditional technical skills aren't enough anymore. Bryan O'Neill, engineering leader with 35+ years of experience, shares how communication skills and growth mindset are becoming more valuable than pure coding ability in the age of AI-assisted development.
In this conversation, Bryan breaks down practical strategies for helping engineering teams adapt to rapid technological change, from creating AI wins channels to sending engineers to practitioner-led conferences. Learn why the best engineers are making the shift from focusing on "bits and bytes" to understanding business value, and how AI tools are changing the role of software engineers from coders to orchestrators.
Bryan shares real examples of how his team at Form Assembly uses AI to accelerate bug fixes and API upgrades by leveraging context engineering. He also discusses why empathy mapping stakeholders makes you a better communicator and leader, and how the skills that made great leaders in sports translate directly to engineering management.
Key topics include navigating the spectrum from AI skepticism to overenthusiasm on your team, why document-driven development is making a comeback, and how to hire for the future when technical wizardry alone won't be enough.
Whether you're leading an engineering team through AI adoption or building your own leadership skills, this episode offers actionable insights on communication, coaching, and creating a culture of continuous learning.
Connect with Bryan O'Neill:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bmoneill/
If you found this conversation valuable, subscribe to the 40% Better podcast for more insights on leadership in technology. Share this episode with engineering leaders who are navigating the transition to AI-assisted development.

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/ 
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347 
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership

#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems. 
#technologyleadership #productmanagement #engineeringleadership #leadershipdevelopment #careergrowth #podcast

In this episode of the 40% Better Podcast, host Bill Lennan sits down with Jacob Crockett for a thoughtful conversation on leadership in the modern tech world—and beyond. Together, they explore what truly makes an effective leader, why titles don’t always equal influence, and how emotional intelligence plays a critical role in building strong teams and healthy company culture.
Jacob shares lessons from his early leadership experiences, highlighting how discomfort, vulnerability, and genuine care for people often lead to the greatest growth. The discussion dives into systems thinking, the impact of poor leadership, and why happiness at work isn’t just a “nice to have,” but a key driver of productivity and long-term success.
This episode is packed with practical insights for leaders, managers, and anyone looking to grow personally and professionally—by focusing on relationships, purpose, and leading with authenticity.

Key themes include:
Leadership in tech and fast-growing organizations Emotional intelligence and human-centered management
Building meaningful relationships at work
Systems thinking as a leadership tool Why genuine care fuels performance and happiness

Sound bites from the episode:
“Wisdom might be very generous.”
“Be the leader.”
“Happiness leads to productivity.” 

🎙️ Whether you’re a seasoned leader or just starting your journey, this conversation will challenge the way you think about leadership, growth, and what it really means to be 40% better. I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/

Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership
#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems.

In this episode of the 40% Better Podcast, host Bill Lennan sits down with Rob Johnson to explore what leadership really means in technology—and why leading people is fundamentally different from managing projects. Rob shares his unconventional journey from a shy, risk-averse engineer to a confident technology leader and entrepreneur.
Drawing from experiences in engineering, product management, startups, and executive leadership, Rob explains why soft power, servant leadership, and self-awareness matter more than titles, authority, or being “the smartest person in the room.” This wide-ranging conversation covers risk tolerance, entrepreneurship, military-influenced leadership lessons, listening over talking, and the mindset shift required to succeed at higher levels of leadership.
Rob also discusses why control is an illusion, why being wrong is essential to learning, and how leaders can remove roadblocks so teams can thrive. If you’re an engineer, product leader, founder, or aspiring executive navigating the transition into leadership, this episode is packed with practical insights, memorable stories, and counterintuitive advice to help you become 40% better.

🎯 Key Takeaways Leadership often starts with ego—and matures through self-awareness You can manage projects, but you must lead people Soft power is more effective than authority Giving before you get builds trust and influence Listening is more powerful than talking Being wrong is essential for growth and learning Risk tolerance develops through experience, not theory Entrepreneurship reshapes how leaders see systems and change Titles matter less than removing obstacles for teams Great leaders make others excited—not anxious—to work with them 

🎙️ Memorable Sound Bites “You can manage projects. You can’t manage people.” “There are no points for being right—only for doing right.” “Control is an illusion.” “I want to be wrong more before breakfast than most people are all day.”

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/ 

Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership #40PercentBetter
#BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems.

In this episode of the 40% Better Podcast, Wolfgang Schram shares his extraordinary journey from Germany to the global concert touring industry, and ultimately to leading engineering teams in the corporate world. He discusses how his ADHD shaped his learning and leadership style, the lessons he learned from owning his work, and the ways he developed the ability to guide complex teams across high-stakes projects. Wolfgang explores the human side of leadership, emphasizing ownership, intrinsic motivation, and fostering an environment where people can thrive both professionally and personally.

Takeaways: Leadership is about enabling others to succeed, not doing everything yourself.
Ownership and trust are key to building high-performing teams.
Understanding individuals’ strengths, weaknesses, and motivations is crucial.
Emotional intelligence and social competence often determine project success.
AI can amplify leadership and problem-solving but requires clear communication of outcomes.
Passion and intrinsic motivation drive learning, growth, and long-term success.

Sound bites:
“Feelings are everything. They are the core decision makers in our actions every day.”
 “Ownership comes by encouraged creative thinking.”
“If you put people in a place where they can shine, the work becomes joy.”

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership
#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems.

In this episode of the 40% Better Podcast, host Bill Lennan is joined by Brent Wodicka, Chief Technology Officer at Applied Information Sciences (AIS), for a focused conversation on what it truly means to build, engage, and sustain highly competent teams.
Brent shares clear, experience-driven insights on why engagement isn’t about perks, pressure, or constant motivation—but about providing meaningful challenges, continuous learning, and real growth opportunities. He explains the implicit contract leaders make when they recruit strong talent: if you hire highly capable people, your responsibility is to stretch them, develop them, and ensure their work remains intellectually engaging. 
The discussion highlights how leaders can prevent stagnation, retain top performers, and create environments where teams stay curious, challenged, and invested in their work. Brent also emphasizes leadership accountability—making sure leaders are holding up their end of the bargain by creating space for learning, growth, and mastery. This episode is especially valuable for engineering leaders, technology executives, and managers who want to build teams that don’t just perform—but continuously grow and improve. I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.


 – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/

Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership
#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems.

In this episode of the 40% Better Podcast, host Bill Lennan speaks with Jill Willard, Chief Technology Officer at IXOPAY, about her leadership journey and how she empowers software and payments teams to build trust, embrace failure, and drive innovation. Jill draws from over two decades of experience leading global software and payment platform teams, offering insights on situational leadership, accountability, effective communication, and building a thriving work culture that encourages psychological safety and experimentation in engineering environments. 
ixopay.com
Whether you’re a tech leader, engineering manager, or aspiring CTO, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways to help you become a more effective and inspiring leader.

🎯 Key Takeaways
Jill’s leadership journey began with a desire for control
Transitioning from small to larger teams requires evolving leadership skills
Building trust is essential for high-performing software teams
Failure is a natural part of engineering and growth
Leaders must give teams permission to take risks and learn
Accountability should be shared between leaders and team members
Situational leadership supports individuals at their level
Effective communication drives healthy team dynamics
Innovation thrives in environments that are engaging and fun
Self-awareness is a critical skill for leaders
🎙️ Memorable Sound Bites
“Failure is built in.”
“You can’t scale that way.”
“Confidence is contagious.”

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team
Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/ 
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347 
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership

#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems.

In this episode of 40% Better, host Bill Lennan sits down with Bill Binkiewicz to explore how asymmetric wins, leadership, and continuous learning shape high-performing software teams and modern engineering organizations. The conversation spans leadership lessons learned through coaching and sports, building trust and psychological safety in teams, and why curiosity and mental models matter more than ever. They also dive into the evolving role of AI in software development, discussing where it adds value, where it falls short, and why it should be treated as a productivity tool—not a replacement for critical thinking. From engineering management and team dynamics to automotive technology, internal customer needs, and delivering business value quickly, this episode offers practical insights for leaders, developers, and anyone interested in building better teams and better systems. 🔑 Topics Covered

• Asymmetric wins and exponential growth opportunities
• Leadership lessons from sports, coaching, and software teams
• Building trust, transparency, and psychological safety
• Continuous learning and growth mindset in engineering
• AI in software development: promise vs reality
• Engineering management and team collaboration
• Internal customer needs and business value alignment
• Mental models, curiosity, and critical thinking
• In-person collaboration and serendipitous conversations
• Automotive technology and the future of software

💡 Key Takeaways

• Asymmetric wins can unlock outsized results in leadership and teams
• Psychological safety drives better collaboration and innovation
• Continuous learning is essential for modern engineering teams
• AI enhances productivity but doesn’t replace human judgment
• Delivering value quickly is critical to business success
• Curiosity and strong mental models improve problem-solving
• Trust enables better contributions and team engagement

In this conversation, Darshan Bildikar shares his journey from being an introverted builder to a successful engineering manager. He discusses his early experiences in programming, his transition into management, and his time at Amazon, where he built and led teams. Darshan reflects on her move to a startup environment, the impact of AI on productivity, and the importance of balancing speed and quality in development. He emphasizes the need for human oversight in AI-driven processes and shares insights on adapting to different work cultures and the future of work.

Connect with Darshan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darshanbildikar/

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team
Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/ 
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347 
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership

#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems.

In this powerful episode of the 40% Better podcast, host Bill Lennan talks with educator and professor Rodrigo Senra about his groundbreaking philosophy on teaching and education.
Rodrigo argues that a teacher's job is not merely content delivery but a mission of inspiration. He emphasizes that true learning and success in computer science come from cultivating passion and a love for computing in students. He reveals that his personal role is akin to that of a Cupid, whose goal is to make students fall in love with the subject, leading to much better long-term learning outcomes.
If you are a student, teacher, or leader, this conversation is a masterclass in the value of mentorship and how creating a deep, emotional connection to a subject is the most valuable tool for igniting intrinsic motivation and driving future generations to excel.


Find Rodrigo on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rodsenra/


✨ Key Takeaways & Inspirational Insights:
Inspiration Over Content: Why fostering a passion for computing is more valuable than just delivering curriculum content.
The Cupid Role: Rodrigo's perspective that his job as a teacher is to be a "Cupid" who makes students fall in love for computing.
Mentorship: The crucial role of mentorship in enhancing a student's learning experience and overall success in education.
Connection is Key: How creating a strong connection with students leads to better learning outcomes and helps them achieve higher success.
Driving Excellence: Understanding how passion can become the fuel that drives students to excel in their studies.
I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team
Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/ 
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347 
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership

#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems.

Join Bill Lennan on the 40% Better podcast as he welcomes Suresh Mani, a seasoned technology executive, to share his remarkable journey from technician to industry leadership. Suresh unpacks the non-negotiables of success in modern tech, emphasizing how curiosity, effective mentorship, and fostering deep team cohesion are paramount. He delves into critical topics like the transformative role of AI in boosting productivity, the necessity of measured risk management, and the foundational power of psychological safety for encouraging diverse ideas. This episode is a masterclass in balancing constant innovation with stability and driving personal growth through challenge.

Key Chapters:

01:42 Navigating Early Career Challenges
11:13 Evolving Leadership Perspectives
29:25 Adapting Leadership in the Age of AI
42:59 Risk Management in Leadership


I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
– Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership
#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems.

Join host Bill Lennan on the 40% Better podcast as he sits down with veteran executive Amit Mital for a candid look at his 25-year career.
In a world that prizes learning from others, Mital shares why his own personal experience and the "school of hard knocks" were his most valuable teachers. This episode challenges the traditional view of professional development and focuses on the power of doing and failing.
You will learn:
Why personal experience often trumps theoretical knowledge in real-world challenges.
The essential mindset shift that turns mistakes into valuable lessons for personal growth.
The critical importance of reflecting on past decisions to avoid repeating errors (and get 40% better in your own role).
How embracing difficulty and overcoming obstacles shapes a deeper, more resilient understanding of leadership.
If you believe true growth comes from getting your hands dirty and learning directly from your challenges, this episode is a must-listen for executives, leaders, and anyone committed to an ongoing journey of learning.

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team
Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/ 
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347 
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership

#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems.

In this powerful episode of 40% better, host Bill Lennan sits down with sales leader Mike Bourgeois to dive deep into the essential mindset that separates top sales professionals from the rest: customer-centric selling.
Mike argues that the key to sales success isn't aggressive closing tactics, but a relentless focus on serving the customer and building a genuine, long-term relationship. If you've ever wondered how to close more deals, stop making the sales process about your quota and start making it about the customer's needs!
🔑 Episode Takeaways
It's Never About You: Mike's core philosophy is that the salesperson's job is to serve, not to sell themselves.
The Power of Perspective: Why understanding the customer's long-term needs is more important than the immediate transaction.
Empathy in Action: How listening and empathy are the most critical tools for every sales engineer and professional.
The Blueprint for Repeat Business: Focusing on value creation leads directly to enduring customer relationships and continued sales success.

Connect with Mike on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/semikeb/

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team
Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/ 
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/

Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347 
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership

#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems.

Welcome to the 40% Better podcast with your host, Bill Lennan!

Join us for an inspiring conversation on leadership and personal growth as Chris Carter shares his remarkable journey of self-discovery and resilience. In this powerful episode, Chris recounts a pivotal childhood moment—an incident with his cousin that shaped his perspective on life lessons and the true meaning of taking control. Chris emphasizes the critical importance of actively making your own life, rather than simply reacting to circumstances. Discover how he learned the fundamental principle of leadership through early experiences like hitting his first home run and how facing adversity instilled deep resilience.
This episode is packed with essential life lessons for anyone looking to step up, own their choices, and commit to continuous personal growth.

In this episode, you will learn:
How early life lessons can spark a journey into leadership.
The profound impact of taking control and recognizing, "You gotta make your own life."
How moments of conflict and success (like hitting a home run) build resilience.
The essential link between self-discovery and true leadership potential.

Key Takeaways:
My life started as a leader.
Things are gonna happen to you.
You gotta make your own life.

Connect with Chris on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopher-carter-885159/

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
– Bill and the 40 % Better podcast team

Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/
Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40%25-better---engineering-leadership/id1709546347
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership

#40PercentBetter #BillLennan #Leadership #TeamPerformance #EmployeeEngagement #PsychologicalSafety #BusinessGrowth #Kaizen #EngineeringLeadership #Coaching The 40% Better podcast with Bill Lennan unlocks previously unheard-of performance levels in teams and leaders. Bill Lennan, founder of 40 Percent Better, interviews experts on employee engagement, psychological safety, engineering leadership, and actionable mental models. Learn how to foster high-performing teams, improve team productivity, and achieve sustainable success in business through a focus on human-centered systems.

In this episode of 40% Better, Rob Truxler shares his journey from engineer to leader and how his love for technology shaped his approach to management. He opens up about learning from mistakes, building resilient teams, and fostering a culture of growth and curiosity. The conversation explores how AI is transforming engineering roles, why critical thinking matters more than ever, and how balance and risk-taking drive career success.
#Leadership #Technology #Engineering #CareerGrowth #LearningCulture #AI #TeamManagement #Resilience #CriticalThinking #TechLeadership #40PercentBetter
I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better Podcast Team
Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/
Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40-better-engineering-leadership/id1709546347
mazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership

In this episode, Kevin Hubschmann explores the real essence of improv - it’s not about being funny, but about active listening, teamwork, and positive communication. He shares how focusing too much on jokes can hurt collaboration, and why the best comedy comes naturally when performers create a supportive environment.
#Improv #Comedy #ActiveListening #Teamwork #Communication #Podcast

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. 
– Bill and the 40 % Better Podcast Team Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/
Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40-better-engineering-leadership/id1709546347 
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership

In this episode, Darshan Bildikar shares his journey from being an introverted builder to a successful engineering manager. He discusses his early experiences in programming, his transition into management, and his time at Amazon, where he built and led teams. Darshan reflects on her move to a startup environment, the impact of AI on productivity, and the importance of balancing speed and quality in development. He emphasizes the need for human oversight in AI-driven processes and shares insights on adapting to different work cultures and the future of work.

I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better Podcast Team
Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/
Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40-better-engineering-leadership/id1709546347
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership

In this episode, Amee Meghani shares her journey in leadership, discussing her early experiences and the evolution of her role within her organization. She emphasizes the importance of promoting from within, fostering a culture of feedback, and the principles of servant leadership. The discussion also covers the challenges of onboarding new employees, maintaining innovation in a growing organization, and the significance of open communication across all levels. Amee highlights the need for a supportive environment that encourages self-starters and empowers employees to take initiative, ultimately leading to a happier and more productive workplace.

I hope you enjoy this episode!
Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better Podcast Team
Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/
Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40-better-engineering-leadership/id1709546347
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership

This episode with Bill Lennan and Sunil Jagani explores the evolution of technology, particularly in connectivity and satellite advancements, and their impact on consumer behavior and business practices. Bill and Sunil discuss the challenges faced by startups, the role of software engineering, and the intersection of AI and marketing. They also delve into the future of work, the need for sustainable business mechanisms, and the changing definitions of success in a rapidly evolving society.
I hope you enjoy this episode!
Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better Podcast Team
Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/
Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40-better-engineering-leadership/id1709546347
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership

In this episode, Bill Lennan and Sebastian Jean share insights on leadership, technology, and effective communication. They reflect on their early experiences with leadership, particularly in military settings, and how these experiences shaped their understanding of collaboration and motivation. The discussion also delves into the importance of clear communication in presentations, the dynamics of team collaboration, and the necessity of creating a safe space for innovation. Sebastian emphasizes the balance between technical expertise and leadership skills, advocating for a culture of trust and open communication within teams.
I hope you enjoy this episode!
Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better Podcast Team
Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/
Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40-better-engineering-leadership/id1709546347
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership

In this episode, Bill Lennan hosts Alberto Silveira who shares his journey from organizing soccer leagues as a child in Brazil to becoming a leader in technology. He reflects on the influence of Ayrton Senna, the evolution of technology, and the importance of balancing human aspects with technological advancements. Alberto emphasizes the need for critical thinking and ethical considerations in leadership, especially in the context of AI and preparing the next generation for future challenges.
I hope you enjoy this episode!
Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. – Bill and the 40 % Better Podcast Team
Connect with Bill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wblennan/
Visit the 40 Percent Better website here: https://40pb.com/
Listen to 40 % Better on these podcast platforms: Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qkqdMPkR9BqYPM7UPa4P0
Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/40-better-engineering-leadership/id1709546347
Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/01ad162e-7a33-4df4-8c29-04c4af0405fc/40-better---engineering-leadership