0408 - Redefining Retention

“Most leaders wait until the exit interview to ask the real questions — and by then, it’s too late.”

In this episode of Not Your Average CEO Lifeline, best-selling author and workplace culture expert Ryan Englin challenges the myths around pay, perks, and bonuses. He explains why real retention isn’t about dangling more incentives — it’s about understanding what your employees truly need to thrive.

💡 What We Cover:

3 unconventional questions for effective stay interviews

Why awkward conversations lead to better retention insights

How to flip the script from “What do I need from my employees?” to “What do they need from me?”

Why higher pay, bonuses, or perks aren’t the magic answer

Practical ways to build a culture where people actually want to stay

Top Takeaways:

✔️ Retention starts with listening, not incentives

✔️ Stay interviews uncover motivations before it’s too late

✔️ Leaders who meet their team’s needs keep their best people engaged long-term

Common Misunderstandings We Address:

❌ Thinking more money solves engagement problems

❌ Believing culture is only about perks and policies

❌ Waiting until employees resign to ask the real questions

Why This Matters:

A revolving door of talent costs more than higher paychecks. True leadership means creating space where employees feel supported, valued, and heard. When you meet their needs, they’ll take care of yours.

🎙️ Co-Host Discussion:

What makes stay interviews so powerful?

How can leaders get past the discomfort of tough questions?

Why do so many leaders focus on pay when it’s rarely the core issue?

What’s one change leaders can make today to strengthen retention?

Closing Thoughts:

Retention is not about perks or paychecks — it’s about understanding your people. The sooner leaders realize this, the stronger and more loyal their teams become.

📌 CTA:

What’s one question you’d add to your own stay interview? Drop it in the comments below!

✨ This episode is brought to you by Virtual Assist USA

Your time is valuable. Virtual Assist USA offers experienced, US-based Virtual Assistant services to help CEOs and business owners streamline operations, get more done, and grow faster—with the right support in the right roles.

🔗 Connect With Us on LinkedIn:

👤 Nicole Gallicchio – linkedin.com/in/nicolegallicchio

👤 Danielle C. – linkedin.com/in/djc287

📚 Hear more from Ryan Englin: corematters.com/freebook

#NYAELPodcast #EmployeeRetention #StayInterviews #LeadershipMatters #CultureFirst #NotYourAverageCEO #RyanEnglin #EngagedTeams #LeadSmarter