The Fortified Life Podcast with Jason Davis - EP 225 | Dee Ann Turner | 3x Best-Selling Author, International Speaker, Retired VP

The Fortified Life Podcast with Jason Davis Episode 225 | Guest: Dee Ann Turner – 3x Best-Selling Author, International Speaker, Retired Chick-fil-A VP Show Theme:Learning to develop a dependency on Jesus in the marketplace—because from the boardroom to the bathroom, God is with you! Guest IntroductionDee Ann Turner: Three-time best-selling author, international keynote speaker, and retired VP with 33 years at Chick-fil-A.Known for: Building remarkable cultures, recruiting extraordinary talent, and creating exceptional customer experiences.Key Topics & Highlights Dee Ann’s JourneyEarly ambitions as a writer; graduated from Cincinnati Christian University.Started career in a toxic environment, then pivoted to Chick-fil-A on her husband’s recommendation.Three pivotal decisions: choosing the right spouse, joining Chick-fil-A, and accepting a role in Human Resources over Marketing.Rose through the ranks, eventually becoming responsible for recruiting and selecting franchisees.Authored her first book while still at Chick-fil-A, then retired to pursue writing and speaking full time.Building Remarkable Culture at Chick-fil-ACulture built on Truett Cathy’s purpose: to glorify God and be a positive influence.Focus on leadership development, high standards, and selecting purpose-driven individuals.Emphasis on multiplying leaders and fostering innovation through franchisees.Critical people decisions—especially selecting franchise operators—impact the entire brand.Talent and LeadershipTransitioned from marketing ambitions to HR, drawn by variety and people-focused work.Built systems for staff selection and later managed franchisee recruitment and selection.Discovered her calling in helping others find their calling.Signature Talks & Topics"Remarkable Cultures": Defining purpose, mission, and core values."Leading Talent": Selecting extraordinary talent for organizations."Customer Experience": How culture and talent create customer delight."Servant Leadership": Lessons from Chick-fil-A and beyond.Executive-in-Residence at High Point University, mentoring the next generation.Navigating AI and Innovation in the WorkplaceAI as a valuable business tool for augmenting processes.Human relationship-building and communication skills remain irreplaceable.Leaders must focus on developing relational, communication, and critical thinking skills.Warning against over-reliance on rules-based systems—principles allow for creative, human-centered problem solving.What Makes Great Talent?Servant spirit and humilityStrong work ethicExcellent communication skills (oral and written)Relationship-building and teamwork abilitiesLooking Ahead: Dee Ann’s Current & Upcoming ProjectsSpeaking at major conferences (e.g., International Car Wash Association, events with Lexus)Working on a new leadership book (already 10 chapters in!)Continuing to mentor and coach leaders and young professionalsDee Ann’s BooksBet on Talent (Recommended – includes and expands on content from her out-of-print first book)Crush Your Career (For young professionals, now in paperback)Both are available on DeeAnnTurner.com and major online retailersConnect with Dee Ann TurnerLinkedIn: Dee Ann TurnerFacebook: Dee Ann Turner AuthorInstagram: @deeannturnerWebsite: DeeAnnTurner.comAdditional ResourcesPodcast Website: fortifiedlifepodcast.comHost’s Book: Fortify: Being Rooted in God’s Plan for Work and Business by Jason Davis (Available on Amazon)Closing Encouragement Don’t compartmentalize your faith. From the boardroom to the bathroom, God is with you! Listen & Subscribe:Apple PodcastsSpotifyiHeartRadioYouTube (@ The Fortified Life)