How do today’s leaders navigate relentless change while keeping themselves, and their teams, energized, accountable, and thriving?
In this episode of The Strategic Business Influencer, Paige Velasquez Budde sits down with Laurie Oswald, CEO of InteraWorks, a leader in performance development who has spent over two decades helping executives and organizations unlock human potential. Laurie’s background spans corporate tech, manufacturing, and now purpose-driven leadership at InteraWorks, where she guides global companies through transformation with tools that elevate both performance and well-being.
Here are my top 5 takeaways from my conversation with Laurie:
1. Integration matters more than balance.
Laurie challenged the old idea of “work-life balance.” Instead, she encourages leaders to think about integration—bringing purpose, priorities, and energy into alignment so that work and life complement each other rather than compete.
2. Accountability is different from integrity.
True accountability isn’t about punishment or micromanagement—it’s about integrity. Laurie explained that when accountability is rooted in shared agreements and purpose, it becomes energizing rather than fear-based.
3. Multi-generational leadership requires intention.
Today’s workforce spans five generations, each with unique expectations and strengths. Laurie emphasized that leaders who recognize and harness this diversity create more innovative, resilient teams.
4. Lasting change comes from simple, repeatable practices.
Through InteraWorks’ Best Year Yet program, Laurie has seen how consistent reflection, focus on top priorities, and a commitment to simple frameworks can drive transformation for both individuals and organizations.
5. Purpose fuels performance.
Laurie shared her personal purpose statement—helping other human beings take flight—and explained how tying business goals to deeper meaning creates more engaged, fulfilled, and high-performing teams.
Laurie’s wisdom reminds us that performance and purpose aren’t opposites—they’re deeply connected.
Want to learn more about Laurie and the incredible work her team is doing? Visit https://www.interaworks.com/.
For more upcoming episodes, click “subscribe” to my LinkedIn newsletter. I promise you won’t want to miss these upcoming guests!
Want to dive deeper into how today’s most trusted leaders grow their businesses, brands, and influence? Pre-order my upcoming book, The Strategic Business Influencer, and get the playbook for turning leadership into your most powerful business asset.