20. From Math to Management: Ryan Stadt on People-First Leadership

In this episode of Hard at Work, Ellen is joined by Ryan Stadt—Senior Talent and Inclusion Manager at Cengage Group and executive coach—for a conversation that gets real about what it actually takes to support and grow people-centered leaders. Ryan shares what it looks like when leadership development is fully resourced and taken seriously—and how even organizations without big budgets can design meaningful programs for new managers. From pulse surveys and coaching cohorts to the difference between protecting your team and empowering them, this episode offers both tactical tools and deep insight. Ellen and Ryan also talk openly about the current backlash against DEI, how to keep doing the work even if you stop using the acronym, and why equity-focused change starts with small but intentional decisions. Whether you’re a burned-out middle manager, an HR leader trying to shift workplace culture, or just someone trying to lead without losing your mind, there’s something here for you. Oh—and you’ll definitely want Ryan’s fiction recs. You’ll hear about: the biggest mindset traps new managers fall into, why slowing down is essential to good leadership, what to delegate (and how), the right way to check in with your team, and why designing your own leadership program might be the best move you can make.Keywords: burnout, leadership development, delegation at work, people management, workplace equity, DEI backlash, inclusive leadership, emotional intelligence at work, HR best practices, new manager training, psychological safety, executive coaching, workplace flexibility, healthy work culture, employee engagement