If you’d like to check it out, you can find this episode on Spotify. It’s also on Apple Podcasts and on our podcast landing page

In this episode of the “Focusing on the Success of Others” podcast, we’re joined by Meri Kullberg, an accomplished Executive Consultant who has spent more than 20 years at the intersection of business, technology, and people. Meri’s passion for fostering growth in others has been a central theme throughout her career, which spans roles in education and consulting. Her approach to leadership and teamwork is defined by an unwavering focus on helping others thrive, a belief that when you invest in the success of those around you, everyone wins.

Throughout the episode, Meri reflects on how her upbringing instilled in her the value of service and humility. From a young age, she learned from her parents to treat everyone with respect, whether they were a CEO or a janitor. This deeply embedded belief in the power of helping others achieve their goals set the stage for a career marked by collaboration, team-building, and leadership through example. Her early experiences as a teacher solidified her focus on people-centered growth, where success is measured not by individual accolades but by how well you uplift those around you.

A key takeaway from Meri’s insights is the importance of a growth mindset—embracing challenges, being open to learning, and focusing on continuous improvement. She explains how, whether in sports, business, or life, real progress happens when we stop viewing success as a zero-sum game. When one person succeeds, it can bring the entire team closer to their goals. Meri emphasizes that success, particularly in team settings, is a shared journey where collaboration and support are vital.

Meri’s passion for creating high-performing teams that are not only efficient but also healthy shines through in her work. She discusses the importance of fostering psychological safety and building environments where people feel empowered to take risks, make mistakes, and grow. She acknowledges that leadership is not about controlling every aspect of a project or a team but about inspiring others to find their own strengths and contributions. This philosophy of leadership is anchored in empathy, where understanding the needs, motivations, and aspirations of others allows leaders to help individuals and teams reach their full potential.

One of the most impactful parts of the discussion centers around the practical ways leaders can focus on the success of others. Meri encourages listeners to engage in active listening, ask curious questions, and be vulnerable by sharing their own challenges and failures. These behaviors not only build trust but also create a culture of mutual respect and collaboration. She also addresses the challenge of working with individuals who may resist help or prefer to go it alone, advising that true leadership is about meeting people where they are and guiding them without ego or personal agenda.

Meri also highlights the importance of self-care and resilience, noting that leaders need to make sure their own “oxygen mask” is on first. She shares how investing in oneself, whether by taking time to recharge or seeking out the things that bring joy, is essential to being able to give your best to others. This balance of focusing on others while maintaining personal well-being is a critical aspect of sustained leadership.

As the episode unfolds, Meri offers practical examples of how focusing on the success of others can transform not only teams but also entire organizations. She discusses how this philosophy has been central to her work at augustwenty, a consulting firm that prioritizes people and their development as much as the technical solutions they provide. Her experiences in helping clients and colleagues alike realize their full potential serve as powerful lessons for listeners looking to build a more collaborative, empathetic, and successful professional environment.

Ultimately, this episode is a testament to the power of putting people first. Whether you’re a seasoned leader or someone just starting your career, Meri Kullberg’s thoughtful approach to leadership and team dynamics will inspire you to rethink how success is defined—not just for yourself but for those you lead and work alongside.

If you’d like to check it out, you can find this episode on Spotify. It’s also on Apple Podcasts and on our podcast landing page