Podcasts

Using over 1.5 million assessments from leaders worldwide, renowned psychometrician Dr. Joseph Folkman and leadership legend Dr. Jack Zenger are here to settle the debates and let the data speak for itself. Each week they analyze different leadership traits, trends, and what it really takes to get to the 90th percentile. These short episodes feature compelling stories, research, and actions that leaders can take to improve.

Episode 162: Building Resilient Leaders: Lessons from Core & Main

The 90th Percentile: An Unconventional Leadership Podcast

Published: April, 2025

Details

In this episode, we’re diving into resilience—a critical skill for today’s leaders—with Evelyn Swanson, Vice President of Learning and Organizational Development at Core & Main. As a leading distributor of water, sewer, storm drain, and fire protection products, Core & Main has declared this year the “Year of the Resilient Leader.” Evelyn shares valuable insights about how the company is equipping its more than 5,700 associates nationwide to adapt, innovate, and thrive amidst continuous industry disruption and rapid organizational growth. Join us as we explore the practical steps Core & Main is taking to build resilient leaders who sustain communities today and into the future.

Key Learnings

Defining Resilience: At Core & Main, resilience involves leaders confidently navigating ambiguity and rapid changes, shifting from relying on past experience to embracing innovation and collaboration.
Integrating New Leaders: With 11 acquisitions completed in 2024 alone, Core & Main prioritizes leadership integration workshops and cultural immersion activities, such as personalized meetings, practical gifts, and celebrating integration milestones, to smoothly transition new associates into their established culture.
Continuous Leadership Development: Core & Main emphasizes ongoing, immersive learning experiences. Leaders participate in voluntary, high-touch training programs that include follow-up actions, accountability partners, and direct managerial involvement, ensuring sustained development beyond initial training sessions.
Engagement and Retention: Core & Main connects leadership development directly to employee engagement. Regular engagement surveys, effective knowledge transfer practices, and leadership accountability significantly reduce turnover. Notably, 88% of succession-planned roles were filled internally, demonstrating strong internal leadership pipelines.
Practical Advice for Leadership Programs: Evelyn advises organizations to view leadership development as a marathon, not a sprint. Sustainable programs addressing real organizational needs, consistent measurement, and involving leaders as subject matter experts are essential for long-term success and cultural alignment.

Webinar

Zenger Folkman hosts an exclusive live webinar every month, where you can meet Jack Zenger and Joe Folkman and talk about their latest leadership development research. Find out more information and register here.