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In this episode of The 2020 Podcast, host Dr. Harbir Sian welcomes leadership consultant Nancy Dewald for a thoughtful conversation on leadership, team effectiveness, and how optometry practices can better execute ideas without burning out their teams. Drawing from her extensive experience in staff training and consulting, Nancy introduces listeners to the Working Genius framework—a practical leadership model designed to improve productivity, reduce burnout, and help teams actually get things done.
Developed by leadership expert Patrick Lencioni, the Working Genius model is built on a simple but powerful idea: burnout is not caused by doing too much work, but by doing the wrong type of work. The framework identifies six types of “genius” that are required for any project to succeed—Wonder, Invention, Discernment, Galvanizing, Enablement, and Tenacity. Each individual typically has two areas of genius, two competencies, and two frustrations. When people spend most of their time working in their areas of genius, they are more energized, effective, and engaged.
A major challenge in optometry practices, Nancy explains, is implementation. Doctors often return from conferences inspired by new ideas, only to see them fall flat once introduced in the clinic. The Working Genius framework addresses this by emphasizing sequence and teamwork. Successful implementation requires moving through each stage intentionally—from identifying the need for change, to generating and vetting ideas, rallying the team, enabling execution, and finally seeing the project through to completion. Skipping steps or relying too heavily on one type of strength often leads to stalled initiatives and frustration.
The conversation also highlights the importance of self-awareness in leadership. By understanding their own strengths and limitations, practice owners can delegate more effectively, build complementary teams, and avoid taking on tasks that drain their energy. Team mapping, a key part of the Working Genius approach, helps practices identify gaps and make smarter hiring decisions based on what the team truly needs.
Beyond execution, the episode explores how leadership intersects with generational dynamics in the workplace. Nancy emphasizes that while different generations may have different communication preferences or expectations, they are far more alike than they are different. Effective leaders focus on equity rather than equality—providing team members with what they need to succeed, rather than treating everyone the same. Clear expectations, empathy, curiosity, and intentional communication are central to bridging generational gaps.
The episode concludes with a reminder that leadership starts with presence. When leaders take time to understand their teams, set clear expectations, and align people with roles that play to their strengths, practices become more resilient, productive, and fulfilling places to work. For optometry leaders seeking practical tools to strengthen their teams, this conversation offers actionable insight and a compelling case for working smarter, together.
