The Genius in the Work

Most of us have experienced two kinds of work: the kind that energizes us, and the kind that feels exhausting, even when we’re perfectly capable of doing it. And when we’re faced with working with others’ strengths and priorities, things can get complicated fast. 

This episode of the Forward Thinking Podcast features Paula Horwitz, VP of Event Management, FCCS, and Ryan Gray, Master Facilitator of Working Genius and expert on turning differences into strengths instead of a source of frustration. Ryan will be a Keynote Speaker at the 2026 FCCS Director Leadership Conference. Together, Ryan and Paula discuss harnessing work energy, personalities versus productivity, and what it takes to lead a thriving, successful team

Insights Include:

• Common talented team struggles
• Why do leaders overlook the draining aspects of work?
• What makes people productive?
• Navigating team member differences
• Signs for leaders to look for
• What changes when key contributions are identified?

Read the full show notes.

About the Host: Paula Horwitz

Paula Horwitz is VP of Event Management for FCCS, where she oversees FCCS conferences and events. She also provides consulting services, including speaker selection and management, contract negotiations and vendor management, event management and logistics and educational programming design.

Connect with Paula