Productivity Smarts 107 - The Business of Relationships with Tom Hagerty

In this compelling episode of the Productivity Smarts Podcast, Gerald J. Leonard welcomes veteran business strategist and author Tom Hagerty to explore a powerful truth: every productivity issue is ultimately a relationship issue. Drawing on insights from his book The Business of Relationships and over 45 years of executive leadership, Tom discusses how trust, connection, and communication form the backbone of productive teams and thriving organizations. From ghosting in the workplace and quiet quitting to leadership transparency and emotional resilience, Gerald and Tom examine the real-world challenges facing today’s workforce. They unpack why “change before you have to” is more than just a mantra—it’s a survival skill in today’s dynamic business environment. Listeners will learn how to strengthen culture, rebuild trust after conflict, and lead with authenticity. Plus, they’ll hear how legendary quotes from leaders like Walt Disney, Jack Welch, and Sheryl Sandberg tie directly into the art of building high-performing relationships. Whether you're a team leader, executive, or aspiring professional, this episode is packed with timeless lessons and actionable insights for turning strong relationships into your greatest productivity tool. What We Discuss [00:02:01] Introduction to Tom Hagerty [00:06:51] Entrepreneurial mindset for success [00:08:17] Information overload & critical thinking [00:09:30] The power of relationships in business [00:11:38] Workplace trends & ghosting [00:16:14] Transparency & mutual respect in leadership [00:21:05] Leadership styles: the bird analogy [00:24:10] Relationship problems are core problems [00:26:54] Walt Disney on people & dreams [00:29:15] Imperfect leaders & business success [00:36:46] How to connect with Tom Hagerty Notable Quotes [04:18] "Every day that we spend, every day that we waste, every day that we don't achieve what we set out to do, we are literally marching toward death, and every one of us has an expiration date” – Tom [09:30] "I'm not a self-made man. I don't think anyone is. But I know it is because of relationships and the relationships I forged through networking that have allowed me to grow and build and do the things that I'm doing.” – Tom [28:14] "If you don't have somebody to sit on that expensive leather couch with you and watch the big screen, if you don't have somebody next to you in the golf cart, I don't care what club you belong to. It's going to be a lonely 18 holes. You know, it's not fun." – Tom [35:47] “Change the budding addiction, the passive aggressive nature with your wife and kids that is destructive in the family, your financial irresponsibility, before you have to.” – Tom Our Guest Tom Hagerty is a seasoned business strategist, speaker, and author with over 45 years of executive leadership experience across multiple industries. He is the author of The Business of Relationships, a book that distills decades of wisdom into practical strategies for strengthening trust, communication, and collaboration in today’s workplace. Known for his sharp insights, straight talk, and a deep belief in the human side of business, Tom has helped countless organizations improve their performance by focusing on what truly matters: people. From the boardroom to the breakroom, he advocates for leadership that is transparent, participative, and grounded in authentic connection. Resources Tom Hagerty LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/tomhagerty0126/ Book: The Business of Relationships - Amazon Productivity Smarts Podcast Website - productivitysmartspodcast.com Gerald J. Leonard Website - geraldjleonard.com Turnberry Premiere website - turnberrypremiere.com Scheduler - vcita.com/v/geraldjleonard Kiva is a loan, not a donation, allowing you to cycle your money and create a personal impact worldwide. https://www.kiva.org/lender/topmindshelpingtopminds