Leadership Story Talks | Jerome and Julienne Discuss the Power of Disruption

In this debrief episode, Jerome and Julienne reflect on a powerful insight from Anil Singhal about embracing inevitable disruption and using company values as a steadfast guide through change. The discussion opens with a personal question: When were you faced with disruption, and how did you respond?

Julienne recalls witnessing corporate downsizing and restructuring—scenarios where clear communication and values-based leadership made all the difference. When leaders communicated transparently and demonstrated alignment with core values, they retained trust—and talent.

Jerome shares a deeply personal story of disruption: the birth of his daughter during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. Unable to be present post-surgery due to hospital protocols, he found ways to take meaningful action from afar. This moment highlights how disruption often brings a feeling of helplessness, but even small, value-driven actions can have real impact.

Together, they underscore the importance of not retreating during times of crisis, but instead leaning into core values, communicating openly, and finding productive paths forward—even in uncertainty.

Key Takeaways

• Accelerate, Don’t Resist: When disruption is inevitable, facing it head-on and controlling the timeline can mitigate damage and build resilience.
• Double Down on Values: Values shouldn’t fluctuate with circumstances. In fact, they become even more critical during times of upheaval.
• Transparent Communication Builds Trust: During organizational change, people need clarity. Silence and secrecy lead to fear, confusion, and loss of talent.
• Find Your Sphere of Influence: Even if you can’t change the circumstances, meaningful actions within your control matter—for leaders and individuals alike.

Resources

• LISTEN to the interview with Anil Singhal HERE
• Anil's BOOK ~ The 5% Rule of Leadership: Using Lean Decision-Making to Drive Trust, Ownership, and Team Productivity

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Buy Julienne’s book here