Fix the Culture, Not the People: Lessons from the Dean of Dumbassery
Organizations with strong, positive cultures see employee engagement rates up to 72% higher than those with weak cultures (Gallup). Yet too often, leaders focus on “fixing” people rather than addressing the systems, values, and environment that shape behavior. The real transformation begins when we fix the culture.
In this episode of The Bliss Business Podcast, we’re joined by Garry Ridge, Chairman Emeritus of WD-40 Company and Founder of The Learning Moment. Known as the “Dean of Dumbassery,” Garry brings decades of leadership wisdom, showing organizations how to create cultures where learning, trust, and accountability replace blame and fear. His approach has helped companies around the globe turn engagement into a competitive advantage.
🎙️ Hosted by Stephen Sakach, Mike Liwski and Tullio Siragusa
🎧 Produced by Tullio Siragusa
🧭 In this episode, we explore:
• Why leaders should fix the culture, not the people
• How trust and psychological safety drive performance
• Lessons from WD-40’s transformation into a “tribe” with 93% engagement
• Practical steps to replace blame with curiosity in the workplace
🎧 Whether you’re a CEO, manager, or team leader, this conversation will inspire you to create a culture where people feel valued, trusted, and empowered to succeed.
Garry Ridge
Author | Coach | Chairman Emeritus of WD-40 Company
Garry Ridge is the Chairman Emeritus of WD-40 Company and a recipient of an Honorary Doctor of Humane Letters from National University, recognized for his lifetime contribution to leadership, organizational culture, and workplace transformation.
Now, as The Culture Coach, Garry helps leaders create workplaces where people feel valued and inspired. Through The Learning Moment, he partners with executives to build cultures of collaboration and purpose-driven performance. He also serves on the boards of The Gorilla Glue Company and Eastridge Workforce Solutions.
A sought-after speaker and author, Garry co-authored Helping People Win at Work with Ken Blanchard and contributed to Work is Love Made Visible. His latest book, USA Today's Best Seller, Any Dumb-Ass Can Do It, reinforces his belief that great leadership is simple—but not easy.
Known as The Dean of Dumbassery, Garry champions “learning moments,” encouraging leaders to turn mistakes into growth opportunities. His core philosophy: when people feel safe, valued, and connected, they do their best work—and go home happy, strengthening families, communities, and the world.
