Stories With Traction
The Stories With Traction Podcast was created to empower leaders to elevate their businesses through the art of strategic storytelling. By engaging clients and inspiring team members, leaders can significantly impact the world around them. Each episode offers insights into storytelling, marketing, sales, company culture, and leadership, providing practical tools to drive growth and influence positive change. Tune in to transform your approach and lead with purpose.
Stories With Traction
#149: Culture is Not Fluff: How to Architect a High-Performing Team
SHOW NOTES:
In this episode, Matt Zaun sits down with Sel Watts, founder of Wattsnext PX, to discuss the essential role of culture in business growth. Sel challenges the common perception that culture is just a "fluffy" HR concept, arguing instead that it is a strategic business driver that directly impacts productivity, retention, and company valuation.
In addition, they talk about:
✅ The Dreamcatcher strategy: Understanding what truly matters to employees beyond salary.
✅ Why businesses should consider past employees as "alumni" and how positive exits impact long-term reputation.
✅ Sel’s "No Plan B" mantra (literally tattooed on her arm) and why she believes having a backup plan prevents full commitment.
…and much more!
BIOS:
Sel Watts is the founder of wattsnext Group, the founder and CEO of wattsnext PX, and the NYC Chapter President of EO.
Matt Zaun is an award-winning speaker and storyteller who shows business leaders how to inspire action and drive results through the power of strategic storytelling. With a track record of catalyzing significant sales growth for over 300 organizations across industries—from financial services to health and wellness—Matt’s approach has been proven to deliver measurable impact.