Navigating Leadership & Culture: Insights from Ed Janikowski on the Shifting People Podcast

Join hosts Derek Williamson and Kathleen McDonough on the Shifting People Podcast as they sit down with Ed Janikowski, District Manager at a National QSR Brand. Ed shares his extensive journey in the service industry, detailing his experiences and leadership evolution over the years. From discussing the importance of internal recruitment and the nuances of effective leadership to tackling the realities of managing high-volume and struggling locations, this episode is packed with actionable insights. Ed also shares his perspective on fostering a positive work culture, the significance of flexibility in hiring, and the impact of genuine leadership. A must-listen for anyone in people management and the service industry!

You can follow along with Ed's inspiring posts on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ed-janikowski-00445128/

00:00 Introduction to the Shifting People Podcast

00:27 Meet Ed Janikowski: A Journey to His Current Role

00:37 Ed's Early Career and Military Aspirations

02:53 Transition to the Restaurant Industry

04:41 Leadership and Career Growth

08:31 Personal Life and Family

09:21 Insights on Leadership and Recruitment

22:50 Challenges and Strategies in Managing Locations

27:10 The Importance of Store Culture

28:59 Building a Positive Work Environment

31:48 Challenges in Enforcing New Policies

36:05 Flexibility in Hiring Practices

40:47 The Power of Social Media and Mentorship

42:50 Final Thoughts and Reflections