What does a Taco Bell drive-thru have to do with manufacturing? Fast-food and manufacturing have more in common than you might think—and in her newest book Lessons from the Drive-Thru: Real Life Wisdom for Frontline Leaders, former Taco Bell general manager Monica Rothergy shares real-life stories to help leaders lead with ease, authenticity, and vulnerability, whether they’re working in a drive-thru or a manufacturing plant.

Monica recently came by the Mindfulness Manufacturing to talk more about her book and the career path that took her from a Taco Bell general manager to the first female chief operating officer and first LGBT executive for KFC US. In this episode, Monica also shares valuable insights for other frontlines leaders, including strategies for bringing more curiosity and vulnerability to leadership roles.

2:00 – Frontlines leaders often feel the need to jump in and fix problems themselves, rather than letting their team figure it out

4:00 – Shift your mindset to emphasize coaching and supporting, not micromanaging

7:00 – Practice servant leadership through supporting and recognizing your team

13:00 – Instead of just providing instructions, look for ways to observe and provide feedback

15:00 – When problems occur, have deep and curious conversations to find the root of the issue

19:00 – Training is often seen as the problem, but a lack of support can also lead to performance issues

22:00 – All employees are unique and have different standards, so be curious to find out the kind of support and recognition they need

Connect with Monica Rothgery

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