344. Flexibility and Resilience in Times of Crisis with James Burstall

Today’s expert guest is James Burstall, the CEO of the international production group Argonon. With a rich background in journalism and executive roles in TV production, Burstall brings a unique perspective on leadership, particularly in navigating challenging times.

At the heart of Burstall's philosophy is his people-first approach. Whether it's adapting television productions like "The Masked Singer" during the COVID-19 pandemic or prioritizing employee wellbeing, his strategies are grounded in empathy and inclusivity. This focus extends beyond the walls of his company, as demonstrated by Argonon's commitment to diversity, inclusivity, and climate action. These efforts were redoubled in response to the pandemic and societal events like the George Floyd incident, reflecting Burstall's belief in upholding company values even amidst adversity.

Burstall's book, "The Flexible Method," is a testament to his approach. It offers 16 lessons on surviving crises, drawn from varied experiences across industries. These lessons emphasize adaptability, effective communication, and the importance of learning from both success and failure. Burstall's method underscores the need for leaders to be emotionally intelligent and proactive in supporting mental health, both within their teams and personally.

For Burstall, leadership in times of crisis isn't just about weathering the storm; it's about emerging stronger and more connected. His advice to leaders is clear: rest, reward, and review. By taking the time to reflect on experiences, celebrate achievements, and learn from challenges, leaders can foster a culture of continuous improvement and resilience.

James Burstall's journey is a masterclass in navigating turbulent waters with grace and strength. His insights offer invaluable lessons for anyone looking to lead effectively, especially in uncertain times. His call to action is simple yet profound: perform daily acts of kindness and engage in continuous learning, for in collaboration and feedback lies the key to growth and improvement.

The Biggest Helping: Today’s Most Important Takeaway

“Try to perform one random act of kindness every single day. And the trick is it can be somebody you know or somebody you don't know, but they must know that you've done it.”

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Thank you for joining us on The Daily Helping with Dr. Shuster. Subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts, Stitcher, or Google Podcasts to download more food for the brain, knowledge from the experts, and tools to win at life.

Resources:

• Learn more at argonon.com
• Read The Flexible Method
• Connect with James on LinkedIn

Produced by NOVA Media