Episode 57

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Published on:

2nd Dec 2025

How Small Actions Foster Big Connection at Work with Shalynne Jackson

Join Jason for a thought-provoking episode as he welcomes Shalynne Jackson, Chief Culture and Engagement Officer and CEO of Sonder Strategies. Shalynne is renowned for her commitment to building workplaces where people feel seen, connected, and valued.

 

In this episode, Jason and Shalynne dive deep into how organizations can foster meaningful human connection at work, especially in times when disconnection and loneliness are all too common. The conversation unpacks actionable strategies for cultivating workplace cultures rooted in trust, psychological safety, and accountability. Whether you’re seeking inspiration or hands-on advice, this discussion is full of practical wisdom for anyone looking to elevate their organization’s employee experience.

 

Key lessons highlighted in our conversation include:

👉 Mentorship and peer circles are high-impact vehicles for building relationships across departments and roles, fostering trust and growth.

👉 Intentionally connecting people over lunch or informal interactions can give rise to lasting relationships and unexpected support networks.

👉 Connection isn’t proximity. Being physically present doesn’t guarantee meaningful workplace relationships; true connection is built intentionally.

👉 Leaders should ask themselves, “Would I want me as my manager?” Empathy and accountability go hand in hand, shaping how people experience their work.

👉 Privilege and inclusion demand curiosity, humility, and active listening. Leaders can’t just treat others as they wish to be treated, they need to learn how others want to be cared for.

 

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Connect with Shalynne:

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

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shalynnejackson/?hl=en

Website: https://www.shalynnespeaks.com/

 

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JOIN THOUSANDS OF LEADERS WHO ARE HARNESSING THE POWER OF RELATIONSHIPS AT WORK.

📌 Subscribe to our newsletter: https://jasonlauritsen.ck.page/950d3c...

 

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Connect with Jason:

Website: https://jasonlauritsen.com/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@JasonLauritsenVideo

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

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jasonlauritsen/

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About the Podcast

Unlocking High Performance
How leaders unlock performance by creating the conditions for people to do their best work
Unlocking High Performance is a podcast for leaders who want strong results without burning their people out in the process.

Hosted by Jason Lauritsen, the show explores how clarity, alignment, and connection shape performance at work. Jason draws from his work with CEOs, executive teams, and leaders to examine why work so often becomes heavier, slower, and more frustrating than it needs to be and how to fix it.

Some episodes are solo reflections. Others are conversations with leaders and practitioners navigating real constraints and consequences. Each conversation looks beyond tactics to understand the leadership and organizational conditions that make performance possible.

The podcast focuses on the systems that drive performance, not leadership theory or quick fixes. Listeners will walk away with a clearer understanding of how work actually gets done and how to build environments where people perform at their best.

About your host

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Jason Lauritsen