Summary In today’s conversation, Tom Delanoy shows how modern leadership blends culture, clarity, transparency, and data. Long before AI tools improve efficiency, leaders must establish alignment, trust, and communication. This episode gives SMB and nonprofit leaders a simple roadmap for improving decision-making — by first strengthening the foundations of culture and people. Top 3 Takeaways 1. Culture is a strategic engine, not a perk. “Free donuts only go so far.” Intentional recognition and authentic connection drive retention and performance. 2. Balance your three stakeholders. Leaders must serve team, clients, and candidates — creating stability in relationships and delivery. 3. Hire proactively — not reactively. “Good companies should try to make space when they can.” Strategic talent decisions lead to better long-term outcomes. Key Quotes • “Good companies should try to make space when they can.” • “It’s a three-legged stool for us.” • “Free donuts only go so far.” • “Leadership is about transparency during tough seasons.” Episode Chapters 00:00 — Welcome 01:32 — Culture over perks 04:05 — Building meaningful engagement 07:40 — Leadership lessons from sports 09:52 — Strategic hiring during growth 12:21 — The Three-Legged Stool (people/clients/candidates) 14:50 — Transparency that builds trust 17:10 — Systems and customer experience 19:00 — Final takeaway Guest Bio Tom Delanoy, Partner & COO – Thomas Edwards Group Tom has led the operational and cultural strategy for one of Dallas’ top recruiting firms. With a background in accounting, leadership, and organizational development, Tom brings a grounded perspective on how transparency and culture enable better decision-making. 🔗 Website: https://thomasedwards.com 🔗 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomdelanoy Call to Action – Guest Tom invites leaders seeking hiring support or cultural alignment guidance to connect: 📧 [email protected] 📞 214-466-2620 🌐 https://thomasedwards.com Call to Action – Podcast If today’s conversation sparked ideas, subscribe on your favorite podcast platform. And if you want clarity in your IT strategy, cybersecurity posture, or AI readiness, connect with The Fulcrum Group → 👉 https://www.fulcrumgroup.net/talk-to-th3-doc-podcast/ 🔖 Suggested Hashtags #TalkToTh3Doc #LeadershipPodcast #DFWBusiness #AILeadership #ITStrategy #ManagedITServices #SMBLeadership #CultureAndLeadership #HiringStrategy #CybersecurityDFW #STARpowerFramework #SPOTManagedIT