Any Dumb-Ass Can Do It: Lessons on How to Build World-Class Work Cultures with Bestselling Author and Chairman Emeritus of WD40 | Garry Ridge

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Tune in to discover the power of authentic leadership and transformative corporate culture with Garry Ridge, the highly esteemed Chairman Emeritus of WD-40 Company. Ever wondered how some leaders turn failure into a stepping stone for success? This episode will equip you with the tools to redefine setbacks as valuable "learning moments" and nurture a positive, growth-oriented workplace culture. We promise you'll walk away with actionable insights on fostering engagement, accountability and resilience within your teams.

Explore the profound impact of self-awareness and empathy as Garry shares wisdom from his provocatively titled USA Today bestseller, "Any Dumbass Can Do It." Discover how mental health, authentic communication, and leading with core values form the bedrock of a thriving workplace, especially during challenging times. Learn from cautionary tales like Alex, the soul-sucking CEO of Fear Inc., to steer clear of toxic leadership pitfalls.

Garry offers valuable strategies for leaders to build psychologically safe workplaces through intention and candor. He illustrates the significance of vulnerability, encouraging open dialogue to avoid fear-driven behaviors. By unpacking the concept of a values hierarchy, Garry shows how this approach empowers everyone across the company to make the right decisions so they can focus on their best work. Listen is as one of the world’s top Chief Executives shares his insights from a career of servant leadership and putting people first. You will leave inspired and empowered!

What You’ll Learn:

• The creation story of WD-40 and how redefining failures as "learning moments" fosters resilience.

• The critical role of mental health in building thriving organizational cultures.

• Practical strategies for leaders to build psychologically safe workplaces.

• The importance of a values hierarchy to create alignment and unlock the potential within your organization.

• How self-awareness and prioritizing reflection can lead to enduring influence and build an enduring legacy of excellence.

Podcast Timestamps:

(00:00) – The Origin Story for the Book Title

(14:07) – Empathy, Humility, and Self-Awareness: Key Ingredients for Strong Leadership

(21:47) - Leadership Through Intention and Candor

(28:22) – The Power of a Values Hierarchy

(39:12) - Cultivating Authentic Leadership in Today's World

(50:03) - Reflections on Leadership Legacy

More of Garry:

Garry Ridge is a leadership coach, author, and culture expert dedicated to helping organizations build workplaces where people feel valued, connected, and inspired. As Chairman Emeritus of the WD-40 Company, he spent over 35 years leading, growing, and transforming global businesses, fostering a culture of innovation and engagement. Now, he coaches executives, advises organizations, and speaks worldwide on the power of workplace culture. A board member for The Gorilla Glue Company and Eastridge Workforce Solutions, Garry also taught leadership principles as an adjunct professor at the University of San Diego. His book, Any Dumb Ass Can Do It (2025), distills his leadership philosophy—emphasizing clarity, consistency, and culture. Passionate about creating high-trust environments, he believes in putting people first, prioritizing learning over ego, and leading with values like love, care, and accountability.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garryridge/

Key Topics Discussed:

Positive Leadership, Corporate Culture, Empathy, Self-awareness, WD-40, Fear Inc., Authentic Leadership, Mental Health, Purpose, Values Hierarchy, Building A Legacy, Growth Mindset, Vulnerability, Reflection, Intention, Candor, Learning Moments, Learning from Failure, Living Your Values, Building Trust, Servant Leadership, Soul-Sucking CEO, Values-Based Leadership, CEO Success

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

142 episodes

#MBA #Business #Craig Dowden