Employee engagement is at a 10-year low, and burnout is costing the global economy a staggering $322 billion. But what if this isn't a crisis, but one of the greatest opportunities for leadership today? For full show notes visit https://jasonvbarger.com/podcast/engaging-employees/ In this episode, Jason V Barger explains why the current state of the workplace is a pivotal moment to intentionally shape a compelling corporate culture. Discover why caring for your people isn't just a "nice" idea—it's a strategic imperative that leads to 22% higher productivity, better retention, and a thriving organization. Listen now to learn five actionable trends and opportunities you can implement immediately to engage the minds and hearts of your team, build trust, and create a culture people are proud to be a part of. It's time to stop reacting and start intentionally setting the temperature. What You'll Learn In This Episode: [03:30] The powerful data connecting employee engagement directly to a 22% increase in performance metrics. [05:45] Understanding the massive $322 billion annual cost of employee burnout and lost productivity. [09:14] The foundational building block of all great cultures: "People don't care how much you know until they know how much you care." [10:30] How culture is actively shaped every moment through the way we think, act, and interact. [13:31] Five powerful opportunities to build a more engaging culture: [13:54] 1. Language Drives Behavior [14:34] 2. Intentional and Strategic Development [15:51] 3. Clarity on Mission and Contribution [17:00] 4. Honoring the Whole Person [18:36] 5. Cultural Fitness Breeds Trust [21:26] Key questions to ponder with your team to begin strengthening your culture today. Register for Thermostat Cultures Live! Join Jason and other global thought leaders for a powerful day of development on Friday, November 7, 2025 . This hybrid event is your chance to step back and calibrate your thermostat for the road ahead. Limited in-person VIP seats are available! Reserve your spot today at: https://www.thermostatcultureslive.com Connect with Jason: To learn more about developing leaders and culture, visit: https://jasonvbarger.com/ Please rate and review the podcast to help amplify these messages to others! Jason Barger is a husband, father, speaker, and author who is passionate about business leadership and corporate culture. He believes that corporate culture is the "thermostat" of an organization, and that it can be used to drive performance, innovation, and engagement. The show features interviews with business leaders from a variety of industries, as well as solo episodes where Barger shares his own insights and advice. Subscribe to our channel: https://www.youtube.com/@JasonVBarger Make Your 2025 Effective! Book Jason with your team at https://www.jasonvbarger.com Like or Follow Jason 👍 Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonbarger/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jasonvbarger/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/jasonvbarger/ X: https://x.com/JasonvBarger
