Five new WOL programs
I confess I haven’t been working out loud about these five new programs I’m developing.
To fix that, here’s a short description of each of them in order of how complete they are.
FrauenStärken
This new 9-week program is running now, with about 450 people. Although Katharina Krentz has successfully led it for years, reaching more than 6000 participants, we both decided to rewrite the method to focus specifically on female empowerment, visibility, and connection.
Who’s it for? Any organization committed to female empowerment and networking.
“More Good Days”
Based on the research on job crafting and being “alive at work”, this 8-week program is aimed at helping employees in challenging operational environments to have “more good days” at work. We customize this method for every client, and are doing so now for factories in Germany.
Who’s it for? Manufacturing, retail, and other operational employees.
WOL for Leaders
I just completed writing this together with Michael Trautmann. The program gives managers ways to actively practice and discuss leadership topics (motivation, performance, innovation, team work), while supporting each other to each become the kind of leader they aspire to be. The program consists of ten “leadership conversations” and includes options for the Circle to continue meeting and supporting each other.
Who’s it for? Participants of any leadership development program. (Our first client sees Leadership Circles as a natural extension of the workshops and in-depth training they’re already offering.)
The Human Advantage
I’m in the middle of writing this one. The company sponsoring it is seeking to improve communication and relational skills for employees, especially in the face of AI, remote work, and other possible disruptions to people working well together. The program is designed as two 4-week, independent modules.
Who’s it for? Organizations seeking to increase cooperation, collaboration, and good will among employees.
The Good Men Collective (a working title)
This non-profit program for men is inspired by Of Men and Boys by Richard Reeves, which describes the high rates of suicide and substance abuse for men, along with the decline in college enrollment and participation in social activities, among other issues. Men will work in small groups on what it means for each of them individually “to be a good man” in different contexts and roles. They’ll also build relationships and practical skills along the way. Tentative plans are for an info session on May 7th and a pilot in September, 2025.
Who’s it for? Men looking for greater purpose, clarity, or connection.
“Working Out Loud” has evolved.
The original method is still about networking and visibility. Our newer methods apply to doing all sorts of work (inner work, team work, collaboration, leadership) “out loud”—together with other people in a trusted peer Circle.
All of our methods—and more to come—are designed to strengthen feelings of self-efficacy and connection.
I’ll write about each of them in the coming months. In the meantime, please contact me at john.stepper@workingoutloud.com if you’re interested in learning more.
