Rethinc Podcast

Learning from Generational Trauma to Become a More Open-Minded Leader w/ Matt Gandal

February 16, 2023 Rethinc Inc. Season 1 Episode 8
Rethinc Podcast
Learning from Generational Trauma to Become a More Open-Minded Leader w/ Matt Gandal
Show Notes

President and CEO of Education Strategy Group, Matt Gandal talks about what it means to create work culture that’s more humanized, connected, and relatable. His company, ESG, is an organization that aims to support states, national organizations, & foundations that are committed to dramatically improving the performance of the U.S. education system.


Matt expands on how to continue showing up for inclusion and to move away from the ‘CEO check-list’ that one believes they need to do good DEI work.


This conversation uncovers what it means to be vulnerable as a white male CEO, and how he’s used his generational trauma to heal and inform the way he moves as a leader. 


In this episode, you’ll learn:

1:27 – Intro to Matt Gandal

3:28 – How work is changing

6:57 – DEI work is never really done

9:40 – Part of success is building a trusting environment

12:15 – Embracing vulnerability and using generational trauma to be more open-minded

16:46 – Seeing things through people’s eyes before judging them

19:14 – Leaders don’t always have the answer

21:40 – Whiteness in the workplace

32:37 – Making a conscious effort to lead inclusively 

39:50 – Concern of causing harm that bottles you up

46:15 – Creating boundaries and norms 


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