Leaders Intent

Leaders Intent Episode 7 - How a First-Time Exec Grappled with the Pandemic

August 26, 2024 Ronnie Stephens and special guests

In Episode 7 of the Leaders Intent podcast, host Ronnie Stephens interviews Sara Gallagher, President of the Persimmon Group. Sara shares her journey from becoming an "accidental" project manager, to the leader of a consulting firm known for its mission to eliminate unproductive hard work. She details the cultural and operational shifts necessitated by the COVID-19 pandemic, highlighting her company's early and sustained transition to virtual work.

Sara reflects on her initial journey into project management, which began with an unanticipated opportunity from a boss who recognized her potential. She describes the challenges and growth experiences she faced, from managing large-scale projects without prior experience to ultimately becoming president of the Persimmon Group. Sara discusses her leadership philosophy, emphasizing the importance of listening, stress management, empowerment, and maintaining psychological safety within the team. She candidly shares her struggles with mental health and the steps she took to seek help and improve her leadership capabilities.

Throughout the podcast, Sara provides insights into effective delegation, setting priorities, and fostering a culture of continuous improvement and agility. She offers advice for new leaders, focusing on self-awareness, managing fear, and the importance of feedback. The episode is a deep dive into the real-world application of leadership principles, delivered through Sara's personal and professional experiences.

Here is Sara's contact information:

linkedin.com/in/saraegallagher

saragallagher@thepersimmongroup.com

Business Consulting Services | The Persimmon Group | Tulsa, OK

https://thepersimmongroup.com/

 

www.linkedin.com/in/ronniestephens

ronniedstephens.ok@gmail.com

People on this episode