162: Lisa Even: "What Kind of Ripple Effect Are You Creating as a Leader?"

In this conversation, Erik sits down with leadership coach and keynote speaker Lisa Even to unpack one deceptively simple idea: everything you do creates a ripple.From the way leaders show up emotionally to how they engage and adapt culture in real time, Lisa breaks down leadership into something far more actionable—and far more personal—than most frameworks.This episode blends practical tactics with powerful metaphors (weather, energy, waves) and real-world stories that show how culture isn’t built in strategy decks—it’s built in moments.👤 About the GuestLisa Even is a keynote speaker, bestselling author, and leadership coach who helps organizations create what she calls a “good ripple effect.”With a background in healthcare operations and team leadership, she now works with organizations like ESPN, SHRM, and Disney, helping leaders:Build trust quickly Show up with intentional presence Shape stronger, more human-centered cultures She’s also the host of the Have a Good Ripple Effect podcast.🧭 Conversation HighlightsThe origin of “good ripple effect” and why it stuck Why leadership is less about big vision—and more about moment-to-moment behaviorThe “weather analogy” that reframes how leaders show up How to manage energy like a finite resource (the $50 energy metaphor) Why self-awareness collapses under pressure—and how to rebuild itThe power of identifying and activating individual values on your teamLisa’s SEA framework: Show up → Engage → Adapt Why culture is just “all the ways of being” (and how to actually change it) 💡 Key TakeawaysLeadership is built in micro-moments, not macro-intentions. It’s not about being a “positive force”—it’s about how you show up right now.You bring “weather” into every room. Your energy shapes the environment whether you’re intentional about it or not. Energy is a currency—spend it wisely. Leaders who manage where their energy goes create better outcomes (and avoid burnout). Values are visible—if you know how to listen. What people talk about (and complain about) reveals what matters most to them. ❓ Questions That MatteredWhat’s the difference between “being positive” and creating a ripple effect? How do you maintain intentional leadership in chaotic environments? What does good leadership look like beyond emotion—into execution? How do you actually activate someone’s values, not just identify them? How can leaders change culture when they don’t control the whole system? 🗣️ Notable Quotes“Everything we say and do is a ripple—happy or crappy, our choice.” “When you enter a room, you’re bringing weather with you.” “You can’t use all your energy every day—you have to decide where it goes.” “People wear their values on their forehead—you just have to listen.” “Start small. Why are you trying to boil the ocean?” “Culture is all the ways of being—do we like them or not?” 🔗 Links & ResourcesCheck out Lisa's Website: lisaeven.comFollow Lisa on LinkedInSubscribe to Lisa's Newsletter on LinkedInSubscribe to Lisa's Podcast: Have Good Ripple Effect