Catch People Doing Things Right with Martha C. Lawrence #283
Episode recap:
This episode is brought to you by Peak Performers, a nonprofit staffing agency that champions professionals with disabilities. Learn more at www.peakperformers.org.
If you’ve ever wondered what shaped Ken Blanchard into one of the most trusted leadership voices of our time, this episode offers a rare behind-the-scenes look. I sat down with Martha Lawrence—Ken’s longtime friend, collaborator, and biographer—and what unfolded was a rich mix of humor, history, and heart. In her new book, “Catch People Doing Things Right: How Ken Blanchard Changed the Way the World Leads,” Martha reveal the real Ken. She walks through her own journey as well—how a post-9/11 turning point led her to Blanchard’s organization and eventually to writing the definitive biography that captures his wisdom, quirks, and quiet resilience.
Guest Bio:
A former editor at Simon & Schuster and Harcourt, Martha C. Lawrence has shaped the voices of some of the world’s most successful thought leaders. As executive editor at Blanchard, she has collaborated with Ken Blanchard for more than 20 years. Her editing credits include multimillion-copy bestsellers and #1 New York Times titles. Lawrence is passionate about leadership, storytelling, and capturing legacies that matter. She is the author “Catch People Doing Things Right: How Ken Blanchard Changed the Way the World Leads.”
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Show Notes
Quotes:
- I knew I could not have worked alongside a human being who not only was so innovative, intelligent, and heart-centered, but who lived the same things he’s teaching.
- One of the takeaways from the book is that you don’t have to be perfect to be successful.
- You want to lift people—you want to catch them doing things right.
Takeaways:
- True leadership is based on humility, trust, and the authentic desire to lift others up.
- Setbacks and personal challenges can become sources of strength and inspiration.
- Servant leadership means supporting your team from the bottom up, not ruling from the top.
- The best leaders are those who make others feel valued and recognized for their contributions.
- Lifelong learning and collaboration can fuel both personal and organizational growth.
Timestamps:
0:00:00 — Sponsor Message & Podcast Welcome
0:01:30 — Marcel introduces Ken Blanchard’s influence and today’s theme
0:02:30 — Introducing guest Martha C. Lawrence and her background
0:05:00 — Martha shares her story and career path
0:07:30 — Martha discusses overcoming personal adversity
0:10:54 — How Martha began working with Ken Blanchard
0:12:54 — Inspiration to write Ken’s biography
0:16:09 — Ken’s connections and meeting Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
0:19:33 — How Ken’s parents shaped his leadership values
0:21:21 — The inverted pyramid and servant leadership explained
0:23:13 — Ken’s mentors, co-authors, and learning philosophy
0:25:07 — Ken’s personal and professional setbacks
0:27:38 — Ken’s humor and breaking the rules
0:31:26 — The evolution of Ken’s servant leadership philosophy
0:33:39 — “The One Minute Manager”—origins and impact
0:35:54 — Are the principles of “The One Minute Manager” still relevant?
0:37:51 — Research and surprises from Ken’s archives
0:39:57 — Including love in leadership and chapter discussion
0:42:42 — What readers can gain from the book; catching people doing things right
0:45:08 — Distinguishing between care and love in leadership
0:47:39 — Speed Round: What makes Martha smile, her inspirations, and hopes
0:53:33 — The big takeaway: Leadership is love
0:54:25 — Where to find Martha and Ken’s resources online
0:55:01 — Closing gratitude and episode wrap-up
Conclusion:
The stories shared in this episode remind us that genuine leadership is shaped by humility, resilience, and compassion. Ken Blanchard’s journey proves that success is rooted as much in character as in achievement. Martha’s perspective brings to life the transformative effect of working alongside a true role model. Their experiences illustrate that lifting other and embracing authenticity can leave a legacy that outlasts any title. As you move forward, ask yourself: how can you lead with more heart in your own life and work?
The Book
Links/Resources:
Episode #3: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/love-in-action/id1456073489?i=1000433623822
Episode #122: https://www.marcelschwantes.com/ken-blanchard-2/
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