In this Implementors episode, host Ted Wolf sits down with Garry Ridge, Chairman Emeritus and former CEO of WD-40 Company, for a powerful conversation on servant leadership, workplace culture, and sustainable organizational success. Drawing on a 35-year career at WD-40, Garry shares how putting people first became the foundation for building a high-performing, values-driven organization operating in more than 170 countries. He explains why leadership is not about command and control, but about creating an environment where learning, accountability, and belonging flourish. Central to the discussion is the role of psychological safety — enabling people to take risks, learn from mistakes, and contribute fully without fear. Ted and Garry explore practical leadership practices, including using feedback as “feed forward,” aligning culture with strategy, and creating positive memories that shape how people experience work. Garry also reflects on navigating financial challenges with integrity and why purpose-driven leadership is essential during periods of uncertainty and change. As organizations adapt to accelerating technological change and increasingly AI-enabled ways of working, this episode highlights why servant leadership and strong culture remain enduring competitive advantages. It offers actionable insights for leaders seeking to build resilient teams, engaged employees, and workplaces where both people and performance thrive.
