Success Secrets and Stories
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Success Secrets and Stories
What Happens When Innovation Serves People, Not Processes
What if your tech stack made people feel more capable, more connected, and more heard? We dive into a people-first playbook for leaders, educators, and builders who want technology to amplify human potential rather than squeeze it into a workflow. From high-fidelity remote collaboration that makes distributed teams feel in the room to mobile video that turns solo field work into instant teamwork, John and Greg share practical stories that reveal how the right tools can boost confidence, speed problem-solving, and strengthen trust.
We break down the leadership habits that make adoption stick: start with empathy, create psychological safety, and invite employees to co-create solutions through feedback loops and transparent decision-making. Accessibility isn’t an afterthought; it’s foundational. Speech-to-text, screen readers, and adaptive devices expand participation for colleagues with disabilities and, in the process, improve the experience for everyone. We also talk training that actually works—layered learning paths, hands-on practice, and ongoing support that keep skills fresh and morale high—while measuring success by more than efficiency, including cooperation and inclusion.
Classrooms offer a powerful proving ground. Adaptive platforms personalize learning in real time, help teachers spot disengagement early, and celebrate small wins that spark motivation. The teacher remains central; technology augments their reach rather than replaces their judgment. We also issue a clear warning about automation complacency with a vivid aviation lesson: when dashboards replace fundamentals, outcomes suffer. Rounding it out, we spotlight Patagonia’s mission-aligned systems and ambient clinical documentation that give doctors time back with patients—proof that people-centric technology can scale with integrity.
If this conversation sparked ideas, follow the show, share it with a colleague, and leave a review with one takeaway you’ll apply this week. Your feedback helps us build smarter, more human tools together.
Presented by John Wandolowski and Greg Powell
Well, hello, and welcome to our podcast, Success, Secrets, and Stories. I'm your host, John Wondolowski, and I'm here with my co-host and friend, Greg Powell. Greg? Hey everybody. And when we put together this podcast, we wanted to put out a helping hand and help that next generation and help answer the question of what does it mean to be a leader? Today we want to talk about a subject that I think supports that concept. So this podcast is about people-centric technology, empowering the workplace in the classroom and different applications that make sense. So that the computer isn't the challenge, the computer becomes that tool that everybody talks about. And today we're going to explore that intersection between technology, leadership, and the human experience.
SPEAKER_01:How technology, when used correctly, can truly empower people, not just processes.
SPEAKER_00:Absolutely. And too often we hear how technology has a way of automating and cutting costs and streamlining things. But if we flip that script, technology actually amplifies the human potential, making people feel valued, heard, even empowered.
SPEAKER_01:You know, that's the heart of people-centric technology. It's not just about the latest app or gadget, it's about using innovation to support people, support employees, customers, and students. So they're just not cogs in a big machine, but true partners in the mission.
SPEAKER_00:I thought it was kind of funny with the schools, they can tell when technology is being used and used, and the teachers will bust those students instantly. There's a sense to understand where it's the right place and where it's the wrong place. But let's start with the workplace. Greg, you've worked with organizations that really get this right. What does it take or what does it look like when a company puts people into the center of their technology strategy? It's a great question, John.
SPEAKER_01:The best examples I've ever seen are companies that use the technology to advance their core mission and treat both employees and customers as valued partners. It's a philosophy, and it goes beyond just creating software products. It's about fostering a culture where technology amplifies human potential. It encourages collaboration and it builds genuine trust.
SPEAKER_00:Yeah, and it's not just remote work or hybrid meetings, although it's about seamless communication or more importantly, cooperation tools. Even if you can't be physically in our offices, that high-quality audio and visual systems can make remote participants feel like they're actually part of the room and part of the discussion.
SPEAKER_01:Exactly. Think about the difference it makes when a technician that's in the field can instantly connect with an expert back at the home office via video, showing them the problem in real time. Now that's people-centric technology in action. Expanding the technician's capacity and support network, not just automating their job.
SPEAKER_00:And, you know, like office workers that we're talking about for remote tools and the things that to use for automation, I seen it in the technical side of it for HVAC repair and plumber's repair and things that IT techs use as a tool that gives you instant feedback. For me, it's like whenever I see somebody on the roof and they're trying to do an HVAC repair, they're able to show the component that it's failed. They can show the parts that somebody can order a replacement part or see if it's on the shelf and even worth the trip to go back and pick one up. It is a way to be a problem solver and to really connect the teams. And businesses sometimes really have a hard time when a technical department gets phones and are spending money on a monthly basis for communication until you tell them how much you saved rather than bringing in a third party. That technology actually gives you the connection to save money. And that's usually the secret to get the funding.
SPEAKER_01:So, you know, John, I remember you talking to a field tech who used to spend hours driving back and forth between job sites and the office just to get a second opinion. Now, with a smartphone and a good video connection, they can show the issue to a senior engineer instantly. And it's not just about saving time. Oh no. It's about feeling supported, knowing you're not out there alone.
SPEAKER_00:Yeah, that's a great point. It is worth repeating. That technical support, it I've seen companies use the cooperation with platforms like Slack and Microsoft Teams, which are the virtual water coolers. Employees can share ideas, ask questions, and just chat about their day. It builds that community even when they're miles apart.
SPEAKER_01:And let's not forget about accessibility. Speech-to-text tools, screen readers, and adaptive devices are now making it possible for people with disabilities to contribute fully. But now with speech to text, they could participate in meetings and write reports with ease.
SPEAKER_00:And that is such a powerful example. Technology isn't just about efficiency, it's also about inclusion. When people can participate, the whole organization benefits.
SPEAKER_01:John, you know it's not all sunshine and rainbows. There are challenges. Implementing new technology can be tough. Tough for both the company and the employees. It takes empathy, trust, and a willingness to listen.
SPEAKER_00:Let's talk about what it takes for a people-centric technology to work. What are the strategies leaders need to keep in mind?
SPEAKER_01:So, first and foremost, lead with empathy. We've talked about that many times in the past. Leaders need to understand what motivates their employees, what skills they bring to the table, and what concerns they have. It's about active listening and showing compassion.
SPEAKER_00:And building trust, to be transparent about the technology that they're using, addressing privacy concerns and addressing it head-on, fostering psychological safety so that people feel comfortable speaking up on something that isn't working.
SPEAKER_01:Absolutely. And involve people in the process. Give them a voice through feedback channels, surveys, forums, whatever. Let them help shape how technology is adapted and how it's used in the organization.
SPEAKER_00:And there's co-created solutions that bring together diverse teams and identify pain points and design solutions that meet real needs. It's not just to look good on paper, it's actually creating that communication that's necessary to be more inclusive.
SPEAKER_01:You know, John, something near and dear to my heart. Don't forget about robust support and training. Yeah. Go beyond basic onboarding. Offer deep dives into tools, reminder about the company vision, and of course the company values. Providing multiple learning paths like live workshops, pre-recorded videos, self-paced testing, focus on both digital skills and emotional challenges.
SPEAKER_00:I love that. And the tech design is actually working around the user, simplifying workflows, makes tools more intuitive and easier to use, and redesigns processes to support technology, not the other way around.
SPEAKER_01:You know, and finally, foster a growth mindset, encourage experimentation, recognize and reward progress, and measure success not just by efficiency, but by morale, cooperation, and trust.
SPEAKER_00:And that is a great framework for any organization. But Greg, let's let's shift gears for a second. I want to talk about the most exciting frontiers for people-centric designs, our schools. Oh, absolutely.
SPEAKER_01:The classroom is where the magic really happens. Today's teachers are being asked to do more than ever, teaching larger, more diverse classrooms with students ranging from highly engaged to those who struggle in group settings.
SPEAKER_00:And I know the technology has been tested back when we had COVID, and the technology can still be a very real game changer. Imagine adaptive, interactive applications that respond to each student's interest and needs. That's like the next step. When software truly is engaging, it motivates the students and they immerse themselves in the learning. Whether it's mastering a new language or exploring history in a way that resonates with them. So, John, let me share a story with you.
SPEAKER_01:I heard about a middle school where every student had a tablet loaded with personalized learning software. One student in particular who struggled with math in traditional settings was suddenly thriving. The app adjusted the difficulty, offered hints, and celebrated small victories along the way. The teacher said for the first time, I see this student excited to learn.
SPEAKER_00:That's fantastic. And it's just that part about academic achievement. These tools can help teachers. They can spot when a student is disengaged or struggling emotionally. Early intervention can make a difference.
SPEAKER_01:So picture this: a classroom where every student has a tailored digital experience. Interactive platforms adjust lessons in real time, offering each learner a unique pathway. Now, teachers get insights into what sparks engagement or creates resistance so they can modify lessons on the fly. And every student, regardless of background or ability, has the opportunity to connect with the material.
SPEAKER_00:And the beauty is that technology doesn't replace the teacher. That's the key here. It empowers the educator to reach even more students that are disengaged without slowing down the entire class. The teacher still leads, but the software augments the lesson, giving the student the chance to engage in a way that is meaningful for them.
SPEAKER_01:And let's not forget the data. Yeah.
unknown:Right?
SPEAKER_01:With the right software, teachers can see patterns, what works, what doesn't work, who is engaged, and who's struggling. You know what that means? That means lessons can be refined, not just for the class, but for each and every individual student.
SPEAKER_00:I spoke to a high school teacher who was using a language learning app in her classroom. And she said, I see that the students are practicing outside the classroom. And who struck on a particular concept of racing ahead? It also gives me the opportunity to personalize my support.
SPEAKER_01:You know, but John, there's a cautionary tale here as well. We have to be careful not to use a computer to teach our children. Technology should be an enabler. It's a tool, not a substitute for human judgment and expertise.
SPEAKER_00:Exactly. And you know, you have to understand the risk of blindly following automation. Let me share a story about aviation. And in the field of cutting technology, they're usually at the peak. This is a case where the pilots relied too heavily on the autopilot system during a storm. They believed the computer was managing all the systems, but they missed a basic error. The plane nose was too high, and the aircraft itself was beginning to stall. What happened was the tubes that pick up the speed of the craft were frozen over, and the computer thought that they were losing speed and was trying to adjust. Well, they finally got down to a certain point in elevation where the tube started to actually, the heaters took over and they opened up and the speed was back, but they couldn't tell the difference. The investigation found the pilots trusted the computer so much that they didn't process the information that was right in front of them. They forgot the basic principles of flying, and the plane stalled out because they were forcing it to fly up when it didn't have sufficient speed.
SPEAKER_01:It's a powerful lesson. You can't put your company or your classroom on automatic pilot and expect success. People-centric technologies are designed to multiply the efforts of your staff, not to replace the staff. True progress demands ongoing engagement, adaptability, and a willingness to learn.
SPEAKER_00:Right. And if you treat the technology as a passing fad or something that you'll get into later, you're going to be risking the problem being left behind while the others move forward with intent and purpose.
SPEAKER_01:So let's bring this back to the workplace for just a moment. So, John, do you have an example of a company that's really nailed down this people-centric approach?
SPEAKER_00:Absolutely. I actually found a company called Patagonia, and it's not a software company. It's an outdoor apparel company in gear, and they leverage the technology extensively for their operations in their supply chain to support a people-centric concept. And it's an environmentally focused mission. They have an extraordinarily low employee turnover rate, thanks to the cultivating of the values and the trusts of its people, flexible schedules, paid leave for environmental activism, and let my people surf to philosophy that are just a couple of their examples.
SPEAKER_01:And they extended the philosophy to their customers as well. Patagonia emphasizes product quality and durability. They encourage customers to buy less and get more use out of their gear and even offer repair guides and services throughout their worn-ware program. Technology helps them manage the resale of refurbished products, making sustainability a core part of their business.
SPEAKER_00:Publishing their supply code of conduct and factory lists of where they are in terms of their website. Their basic model is built on the authentic commitment to social and environmental responsibility, which resonates with their employees and with their customers. But you know, I just got to step back and say that I have another example, and it's in healthcare, and it's the DAC system or the Dragon Ampient Experience, which uses AI to listen to doctor and patient conversations and automatically generates clinical notes. It frees up doctors to focus on patient care and reduces burnout. A great example where technology is supporting people and not replacing them. And I think that's the biggest challenge right now is trying to capture the details. The docs are using this technology to augment that diagnosis.
SPEAKER_01:Companies use interactive platforms that adapt to each employee's learning style. Some prefer video, others like quizzes or hands-on simulations. The key is giving people choices and making learning engaging.
SPEAKER_00:And let's not forget the assistive technologies that speech to text and predictive text and voice commands that are helping people to accommodate limited mobility and dexterity to work and communicate effectively.
SPEAKER_01:With screen readers and accessible design, they could contribute to projects, join meetings, and even lead presentations. It was inspiring to see technology break down those kind of barriers.
SPEAKER_00:And that's the future we want, where technology empowers us, regardless of ability or background.
SPEAKER_01:Exactly. The most promising frontier for people-centric technology is one where we use innovation to personalize, empower, and connect while never losing sight of the human element. Before we wrap up, a final thought for our listeners. So just this, John, embrace technology, but do it with intention, with purpose. Lead with empathy, build trust, involve your people, and never ever ever stop learning. That's how you create a workplace or classroom where everyone can thrive.
SPEAKER_00:Well said. And that is our episode on the modern workplace. I hope that you've learned a little bit about some of the tricks that are out there that are available. And it's that next step that we should embrace to make ourselves as effective as we can be in terms of leadership. If you like what you've heard, I've written a book called Building Your Leadership Toolbox, and we talk about tools like this, and it's available on Amazon and Barnes and Noble and other sites. The podcast is what you've been listening to. Thank you so much. It's also available on Apple, Google, and Spotify. A lot of what we talk about is with Dr. Durst in his MBR program. If you'd like to know more about Dr. Durst, you can find out on SuccessGrowthAcademy.com. And if you'd like to contact us, please send me a line. That's wando seventy five periodjw at gmail.com. And the music has been brought to you by my grandson. So we want to hear from you. Drop me a line. Tell me what's going on, what you like, and what you would like to hear about. It has always helped us to create content. Thanks, Greg. This was fun.
SPEAKER_01:Thanks, John. As always. Next time.
SPEAKER_00:Yeah.