Lead with Language: The Power of Words to Build Culture and Connection with Genice DeCorte

12/11/2025 49 min Episodio 238
Lead with Language: The Power of Words to Build Culture and Connection with Genice DeCorte

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Episode Synopsis


Do your words build up or tear down?In this heartfelt episode of the Build a Vibrant Culture Podcast, Nicole Greer, CSP — “The Vibrant Coach” — sits down with Genice DeCorte, CEO of HealthShare Credit Union, to talk about the real power of words in leadership.Genice shares her inspiring journey from a 16-year-old credit union co-op student to becoming a seasoned leader and mentor to other small credit unions. She reminds us that communication isn’t just about information — it’s about impact. Every word a leader speaks can inspire, comfort, or empower others.Together, Nicole and Genice explore:How to use words that uplift and unite your teamWhy appreciation and handwritten thank-you notes still matterThe power of one-on-one lunches to build trust and candorHow to foster real-time communication across teams and locationsWhy leaders must “coach people in or coach them out” — with kindness and clarityThis episode is a masterclass in compassionate leadership, communication, and the importance of building a culture that loves hard and listens well.Vibrant Highlights:[00:07:00] Words Matter — Choose Them WiselyGenice explains how leaders’ words can inspire, motivate, or comfort — or do the opposite. Every conversation shapes the culture.[00:11:40] The 11-Year Impact of One ConversationA story of how something Genice said over a decade ago helped someone through grief — proving that what we say lasts longer than we think.[00:16:00] Find Your “Posse” Through Professional AssociationsNicole and Genice discuss the power of community, connection, and finding mentors and peers who lift you up.[00:26:50] Feedback and Follow-Up: How to Coach EffectivelyGenice shares how she reframes “being called to the manager’s office” as positive, timely, and caring communication — not punishment.[00:35:00] Leadership Lunches that Build Candor and ConnectionLearn how one-on-one lunches give employees a safe space to share honest feedback — and generate real organizational improvements.[00:44:50] Communicating Change and “WIIFM” ThinkingGenice reveals how she keeps her team informed during transitions — always explaining “What’s In It For Me” to keep morale high.Connect with Genice:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/genice-decorte-b9808232/IG: https://www.instagram.com/genicedeco/FB: https://www.facebook.com/genice.decorte/X: https://x.com/genicedAlso mentioned in this episode:The One-Minute Manager by Blanchard & Johnson: https://a.co/d/hU66kZ0Listen at vibrantculture.com/podcast or wherever you get your podcasts!Book Nicole to help your organization ignite clarity, accountability, and energy through her SHINE™ Coaching Methodology.Visit vibrantculture.comEmail: [email protected] Nicole’s TEDx Talk: https://youtu.be/SMbxA90bfXE

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