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What do a fictional soccer coach and a country music icon have in common? More than you might think – especially when it comes to revolutionizing leadership.

Kim Curley returns to the Tech Exec Wellness Podcast to explore the surprising leadership lessons we can learn from Ted Lasso and Dolly Parton. In a business world often focused on metrics and productivity, these cultural touchstones remind us of something essential: leadership begins with humanity.

The conversation delves into why Dolly Parton remains universally beloved across generations and political divides. Her intentional approach to inclusivity, immediate correction when she learns something might cause harm, and unwavering authenticity create a leadership model surprisingly applicable to today's complex workplace challenges. As Kim explains, "She's been really intentional about the way she sees the world and the way she embraces the world."

Similarly, Ted Lasso's coaching philosophy – centered on developing "the best versions of themselves on and off the field" rather than just winning games – offers a refreshing counterpoint to results-obsessed management styles. The show demonstrates that leaders don't need technical expertise in every aspect of their business but must excel at understanding people and building relationships that unlock potential.

What makes these lessons particularly relevant today? In our uncertain, often dystopian-feeling world, people crave connection, meaning, and leaders who prioritize humanity. The pandemic accelerated this shift, highlighting how traditional workplace paradigms often fail to acknowledge our fundamental human needs.

Kim shares practical applications of these pop culture leadership lessons: creating rich imagery with simple, repeatable stories that teams can internalize; approaching challenges with curiosity rather than judgment; maintaining humility even at the highest levels of success; and recognizing that caring for people first ultimately creates better business outcomes.

The conversation culminates in a powerful reminder that will resonate with leaders everywhere: "We're human beings that work. We are not workers that human being on the weekends." In this simple statement lies perhaps the most transformative leadership lesson of all.

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