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The Steward ChairThe Steward Chair is a podcast that explores leadership as stewardshipthe responsibility of guiding organizations, people, and industries with integrity, long-term thinking, and a commitment to doing good while doing well. Author: Chat With Leaders Media
The Steward Chair is a podcast that explores business leadership as stewardship – the responsibility of guiding organizations, people, and industries with integrity, long-term thinking, and a commitment to doing good while doing well. Through deep, candid conversations with CEOs, Presidents and Founders that have stood the test of time, we unpack the challenges, decisions, and strategies that define values-driven leadership. This is a space for leaders who recognize that success is about more than personal achievement – it’s about leaving a lasting, positive impact on their organizations and communities. Each episode provides real-world insights on how to navigate key business decisions while maintaining ethical integrity, long-term sustainability, and a legacy-driven mindset. This show is produced in collaboration between Chat With Leaders Media and End of the Line Productions. Language: en-us Genres: Business, Education, Entrepreneurship, How To Contact email: Get it Feed URL: Get it iTunes ID: Get it Trailer: |
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Garry Ridge
Episode 204
Thursday, 7 May, 2026
In this episode of The Steward Chair, Garry Ridge, Culture Coach and Former Chairman and CEO of WD-40 Company, shares their journey of transitioning from a "command and control" leader to a servant leader, exploring how "the will of the people" drives meaningful, long-term success. We discuss the specific algorithm Garry used to grow WD-40's market cap from $300M to $3.5B, the defining moments of cultural safety during global crises, and why a leader's number one responsibility is to be a learner and a teacher. This conversation provides actionable takeaways for leaders committed to stewardship, integrity, and impact. Key Takeaways The Algorithm for Culture: Sustainable success is built through the formula of Values + Behavior x Consistency. Consistency is the "magic word" that prevents cultural toxins from eroding the organization. Profit as Applause: Shift the focus from the bottom line to the people; profit is the natural "applause" that follows when employees feel safe, seen, and empowered to do their best work. Leading Like a "Donkey": Effective stewardship requires the humility and reliability of a donkey—carrying the load and helping others reach their destination rather than seeking the spotlight. Resources Mentioned Visit https://thelearningmoment.net/ Follow The Learning Moment on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-learning-moment/ Visit https://www.wd40.com/ Follow WD-40 on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wd-40-company/ Follow Garry Ridge on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/garryridge/ Join the ConversationThe Steward Chair is about equipping and inspiring business leaders to build organizations that stand the test of time. If this episode resonated with you, share your biggest takeaway and tag us on LinkedIn: Chat With Leaders Media https://www.linkedin.com/company/chatwithleaders/ and End of the Line Productions https://www.linkedin.com/company/end-of-the-line-productions/. Elevate your podcast, company meeting, or industry event strategies to better engage stakeholders and drive meaningful growth! Visit ChatWithLeaders.com to learn more about how we can help.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
