Rich Sheridan

“A complex system that works is invariably found to have evolved from a simple system that worked. A complex system designed from scratch never works and cannot be patched up to make it work. You have to start over with a working simple system.” John Gall

In this episode, I chat with Rich Sheridan about his newest book Chief Joy Officer. From Rich’s observation over the years, he saw much suffering in the workplace. At the age of 37 having lost the joy for programming and the likes, Rich began a new journey and started a company called Menlo Innovations. Their mission is to create more joy through technology. Most of our discussion, however, is around creating happy and as a result of productive workplaces. Rich shares examples and practical tips that we could all benefit from both at work and even in our personal lives. Enjoy!

Guest Bio

Menlo Innovations CEO Rich Sheridan became disillusioned in the middle of his career in the chaotic technology industry. He had an all-consuming thought…things can be better.  Much better.  He had to find a way. Why couldn’t a workplace be filled with camaraderie, human energy, creativity, and productivity?

Ultimately, Rich co-founded Menlo Innovations in 2001 to end human suffering in the workplace.  His unique approach to custom software creation is so surprisingly different, that 3,000 people a year travel from around the world just to see how they do it.

His passion for creating joyful work environments led to his bestselling and widely-celebrated book, Joy, Inc. – How We Built a Workplace People Love.  His highly-anticipated second book, Chief Joy Officer, came out December 4th and will continue to prove that a positive and engaging leadership style is actually good for business.

Topics of discussion 

• Suffering in the workplace explained.
• Identifying problems and how to provide solutions.
• Creating productive and happy team environments.
• Allow experiments and encourage collaboration.
• Rich’s radical recruitment strategy.

Quick round questions

Do you have any routines and rituals that you believe contribute to your success?

A good nights sleep and getting up early.

What advice would you give your 20-year-old self?

For those things that bother you, do take action on them.

How would you define success? What does success look like to you? 

To leave the world in a better state than I found it.

What is one tool, skill, resource, or technique that has helped improve your effectiveness and/or productivity? 

Coffee.

If I would serve you your last meal what would you request?

Cereal.

What activity gives you the greatest sense of joy? 

Time with my grandchildren.

If you could pick one book to pass down to your children or future generations what book would it be? 

Leadership and Self-Deception: Getting Out of the Box by The Arbinger Institute

Chief Joy Officer: How Great Leaders Elevate Human Energy and Eliminate Fear by Rich Sheridan

Joy, Inc.: How We Built a Workplace People Love by Rich Sheridan

What quote, phrase or message would you text or tweet to everyone in the world?

“A complex system that works is invariably found to have evolved from a simple system that worked. A complex system designed from scratch never works and cannot be patched up to make it work. You have to start over with a working simple system.” John Gall

Do we all have a Hidden Why, a purpose?

What does living with passion and purpose mean?

What do you believe is the underlying motivation behind everything you do? 

How to connect with Rich

You can connect with Rich via Menlo Innovations here. 

Further Reading and Resources 

TED Talks: Ideas worth spreading

Psychology Today: Psychology Today is devoted exclusively to everybody’s favourite subject – Ourselves

Life Hack: Tips for Life

Elite Daily: The Voice of Generation Y

Four Hour Work Week: How to escape the 9-5, live anywhere and join the new rich.

The Minimalists: How to pursue a minimalist lifestyle and be happier.

Mind Hacks: Tips and Tricks for Using Your Brain

Rich Roll: Plantpowered Wellness Advocate

The Art of Charm: Build confidence, feel comfortable and networking differently.

American Psychological Association: The largest scientific and professional organization of psychologists in the United State

The Art of Manliness: Encouraging men to be better husbands, fathers, brothers, citizens.

Tiny Buddha: Simple wisdom for complex lives.

Brain Pickings: An inventory of cross-disciplinary interestingness, spanning art, science, design, history, philosophy, and more.

Mind Body Green: Lifestyle media brand dedicated to inspiring you to live your best life.

Zen Habits: Find simplicity and mindfulness in life.

Creative NonFiction: “true stories well told.” 

Addicted 2 Success: Motivation & Inspiration Website full of quotes and inspiring articles for entrepreneurs.

Barking Up the Wrong Tree: science-based answers and expert insight on how to be awesome at life.

The Positivity Blog: Practical articles on happiness, self-esteem, productivity and social skills.