Episode 84

84: Leading Through the Noise: What Happens When Confidence Beats Fear

The world is noisy. Economic uncertainty, workforce turnover, AI disruption, and generational divides have leaders second-guessing their every move. In this crossover episode of Broadcast for Manufacturers and Blue Collar BS, the gloves come off as Lori Highby, Erin Courtenay, Brad Herda, and Steve Doyle unpack how fear-based leadership is silently sabotaging teams—and what it really looks like to lead with confidence.

This candid, not-so-safe-for-work conversation blends humor and hard truths as the group shares real stories, sharp insights, and a few Brad jokes along the way.

If you’re a business owner, manufacturing leader, or executive navigating change, this is the reminder you didn’t know you needed: confidence is contagious—fear is, too.

💡 What You’ll Learn:

  • How fear-based leadership shows up (and spreads like wildfire)
  • The true cost of indecision and "zigzag" management
  • What each generation really wants from leadership today
  • How to show confidence—even when you're unsure
  • Why Gen Z is leapfrogging into leadership roles
  • And yes, what a beetle nursery can teach us about emotional intelligence 🪲

🧠 Notable Quotes:

“You can’t control the economy, but you can control how you show up as a leader.” – Brad Herda

“It’s okay to say ‘I don’t know’—but you still need to move forward.” – Lori Highby

“The moment you zigzag, people stop trusting what you say.” – Erin Courtenay

“Fear-based leadership doesn’t inspire—it repels.” – Steve Doyle

Transcript
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About the Podcast

Show artwork for a BROADcast for Manufacturers
a BROADcast for Manufacturers
The purpose of this show is to share knowledge, have fun and bring diverse, yet important topics in the manufacturing space to the forefront.

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About your hosts

Profile picture for Lori Highby

Lori Highby

Lori Highby is a podcast host, speaker, educator, and founder of Keystone Click, a strategic digital marketing agency. Using her vast multi-industry knowledge – gained from experience and education, She has the ability to see the potential of greatness within the already established good of a business. Through strategic actionable moves, she has worked with Fortune 500 companies to micro-business owners, to achieve their marketing goals.
Profile picture for Kristina Harrington

Kristina Harrington

Kris Harrington is the Chief Executive Officer of GenAlpha Technologies, where she drives innovation in the B2B space by enabling manufacturers and distributors to sell their equipment and parts online. With over 20 years of experience in enhancing customer experiences for aftersales and new equipment, Kris is a respected thought leader in digital transformation. She regularly shares her insights through speaking events, blogs, and webinars, championing the future of manufacturing and distribution.
Profile picture for Erin Courtenay

Erin Courtenay

Erin joined ABFM during her tenure in sales at a small business that served the manufacturing sector. It was there that she was introduced to the incredible diversity of people, processes, and products that make up manufacturing. Erin has held communications and marketing roles in a variety of sectors including nonprofits, beauty and wellness, and tech. Podcasting has become her true love, where she has made lifelong connections and learned enough to earn yet another degree.