The Power of Systems and Candid Conversation With Bill Duguay

Mastering Business Skills

In this episode, Sharon Savage and Erin Alli sit down with Bill Duguay, executive coach and former CEO, to unpack what it really means to lead effectively, without carrying the weight alone. Bill shares how his journey from civil engineer to construction leader laid the groundwork for his no-nonsense, field-tested approach to leadership and team coaching. This conversation covers everything from the critical need for operational systems, to the transformative power of saying the hard things, to practical tips for building trust and connection, even in chaos.

Key Takeaways:

• Every leader needs three essentials: a coach/mentor, a peer group, and a solid operating system to remove randomness and stress.​

• Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) are vital for ensuring continuity and scaling, especially for solopreneurs or small business owners.​

• Delegation isn't just about workload; it's about enabling others to discover their strengths and ensuring your business and clients are protected in case you need to step away.​

• Saying the hard things is a skill that takes practice and psychological safety. Radical candor and vulnerability-based trust are cornerstones of healthy teams.​

• True leadership means being fully present, normalizing conversations around mental health, and creating space for meaningful connection at work.

Books Mentioned:

• Radical Candor by Kim Scott

• The Five Dysfunctions of a Team by Patrick Lencioni

Connect with Bill:

LinkedIn: Bill Duguay

Website: EOS Worldwide