UPBUILDING THE SELF

Effective One-On-One Meetings: From Transactional to Transformative

One-on-one meetings are an unavoidable cornerstone of work life, yet many of us find it challenging to lead or engage in them effectively. In this episode, Michael, Rasanath, and Vipin share insights on transforming these meetings from transactional encounters into opportunities for authentic connection and enhanced productivity. They examine the transformative role of psychological safety and ego-awareness, showing how these elements lay the groundwork for strong, effective workplace relationships. Covering practical essentials, common pitfalls, and the often-overlooked power of alignment and clarity, this episode offers actionable strategies for leaders and employees to elevate their one-on-ones—and, ultimately, their workplace culture.

Podcast Hosts: Michael, Vipin and Rasanath

Listen to this episode on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or your preferred podcast platform

Highlights

  • [01:30] The importance of one-on-one meetings and the mindset behind them

  • [5:30] Common pitfalls in one-on-one meetings

  • [10:00] How to fulfill the agenda without falling into objectification

  • [14:00] “Connection before correction”

  • [15:30] Radical candor

  • [17:20] The Four Levels of Motivation in the workplace

  • [21:20] The importance of building relationships and psychological safety as a leader

  • [23:20] How to create psychological safety

  • [26:20] Aligning priorities and building rapport

  • [30:30] Clarity as a fundamental need

Quotes

  • “The one-on-one [meeting] is a litmus test for how the whole organization is functioning.” - Vipin

  • “It substantially [reduces the effectiveness of] the one-on-one [meeting] as soon as you make the other person an object instead of a person.” - Rasanath

  • “There's a difference between getting something out of the meeting versus getting something out of the person” - Vipin

  • “If the care is there, the connection is there.” - Vipin

  • “Effective meetings…begin way before that meeting starts.” - Michael

  • “Especially in the context of work, it is so important to shift the basis of our interaction from what can I get to how can I serve.” -Rasanath

For first timers, welcome to Upbuilding the Self

About the podcast: Two former monks, a former startup founder and CEO, and a former equity derivatives trader dive into how to be our best selves, free from the ego. Our egos are the identities we create for ourselves and wish the world to validate, but when we are not seen as we want to be, we feel insecure. This podcast lives at the intersection of leadership and spirituality. It will help you understand your ego and shed light on your inner world so that you can act with greater clarity, compassion, and the freedom to be your best self.

We also have three upcoming programs. Please reserve your spot ASAP.