Becoming the Leader People Don't Want to Leave (S8:E2)

Becoming the Leader People Don't Want to Leave (S8:E2)

From Work Better by Steelcase

January 26, 2026 · 30 min

About this episode

Clint Pulver discusses how effective leadership and thoughtful workplace design can prevent employee turnover.

Leadership matters because it shapes daily experience, and that consistency is built by small, cumulative actions – the lighting, the layout, the moments we create – that add up over time. Research shows people don’t leave jobs; they leave managers. So leaders who practice mentorship, notice moments, and make predictable, human‑centered choices keep teams engaged. Clint Pulver’s undercover work reminds us that practical, everyday gestures and thoughtfully designed workplaces are what make people say, “I love it here.” Clint Pulver is an Emmy Award–winning keynote speaker, bestselling author, and workforce expert best known as the “Undercover Millennial.” A Speaker Hall of Fame inductee and professional drummer, Pulver blends research‑driven insights with high‑energy storytelling and live performance, inspiring organizations to build workplaces people never want to leave. The Work Better podcast is produced by Katie Pace, with assistance from Rebecca Charbauski, Stav Kontis, Chiara Licari, and Brandon Lacic. Erin Ellison provides creative art direction. Soundpost Studios edits and mixes the podcast. Mark Caswell and Jose Jimenez provide technical support. Areli Arellano and Jordan…

People in this episode

Host: Katie Pace

Guest: Clint Pulver

Topics covered

  • leadership
  • employee engagement
  • workplace design
  • mentorship
  • team dynamics

Keywords

  • leadership
  • employee retention
  • workplace culture
  • mentorship
  • human-centered design

Mentioned in this episode

Organizations: Steelcase, Soundpost Studios

More episodes of Work Better

Explore listener stats, chart rankings, contacts and more on the Work Better podcast page.