About George Pesansky:

George Pesansky is a recognized leader in Operational Excellence, with a career spanning more than 30 years in performance optimization, executive coaching, and systematic improvement. He has trained and coached over 10,000 professionals across six continents and helped Fortune 500 companies and nonprofits alike drive measurable results.

He is the founder of Capacity2Care, a nonprofit encouraging Superperformers to donate their talent—not just their time—to improve outcomes in their communities. Known for his clarity, candor, and hands-on approach, George is now sharing his best practices with readers everywhere through Superperformance.

In this episode, Kevin and George Pesansky discuss:

• Why empathy is a non-negotiable for modern leadership
• The importance of listening with curiosity instead of judgment
• Building trust through consistency and transparency
• How a growth mindset fuels resilience and innovation
• Practical ways leaders can adapt in times of uncertainty

Key Takeaways

• Empathy is more than a leadership skill — it’s a leadership stance. By choosing to understand rather than control, leaders create environments where people feel valued and safe to contribute.
• Listening isn’t passive. It’s an active discipline that requires curiosity, patience, and the willingness to suspend judgment long enough to truly hear what’s being said.
• Trust is built in layers. Every consistent action, honest word, and transparent decision either reinforces or undermines the foundation on which leaders stand.
• A growth mindset changes the way challenges are perceived. Instead of threats, they become opportunities to learn, evolve, and test creative solutions that wouldn’t exist without the pressure.
• Adaptability is the currency of leadership in uncertain times. Leaders who remain flexible, open to feedback, and willing to adjust their approach are the ones who keep their teams moving forward.

"It's not about reaching that moment where everything is clicking. It's embracing the journey." – George Pesansky

Connect with George Pesansky:

Websites: georgepesansky.com & https://myblendedlearning.com/

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

Connect with Kevin Neal:

Website: https://drkdneal.com

Book: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0C47RZDSS

https://www.amazon.com/Guided-Greatness-Mentorship-Developing-professionals-ebook/dp/B0FGBH1VNS

Email: [email protected]

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachkd63