Transformation is Caught, not Taught

In this episode of Beneath the Transaction, we sit down with Kate Westerman, Senior Director of Operations Learning & Development at UNFI, to explore what truly shapes growth inside organizations. Kate has built enterprise-wide training systems across complex operational environments — but what stands out most isn’t her portfolio. It’s her posture. Together, we talk about why so much of what we call “development” becomes transactional — compliance-driven, checklist-focused, and disconnected from the people it’s meant to serve. Kate shares how suspending the ego, seeing learners as gifts, and cultivating accountability inside belonging changes everything. This conversation is about more than training. It’s about the kind of leadership that forms people — not just processes. If you care about building cultures where transformation is actually possible, this episode invites you to slow down and reconsider how you develop others — and how you show up in the process. Because transformation isn’t delivered. It’s cultivated. Thank you for listening! We don't believe transformation is a solo act. Follow along and join a community practicing what it means to Live Beneath the Transaction. CHAPTERS Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Context of Transformation 03:13 Kate's Background and Philosophy on Training 06:05 The Role of Ego in Leadership and Training 11:58 Transactional vs. Transformational Training 19:01 Creating a Culture of Accountability 27:57 The Importance of Relationships in Leadership 34:46 Rituals and Practices for Growth 40:04 Reflections on Personal Growth and Future Directions 56:53 Conclusion and Key Takeaways