Lead with Language: The Power of Words to Build Culture and Connection with Genice DeCorte

Do your words build up or tear down? In this heartfelt episode of the Build a Vibrant Culture Podcast, Nicole Greer, CSP — “The Vibrant Coach” — sits down with Genice DeCorte, CEO of HealthShare Credit Union, to talk about the real power of words in leadership. Genice shares her inspiring journey from a 16-year-old credit union co-op student to becoming a seasoned leader and mentor to other small credit unions. She reminds us that communication isn’t just about information — it’s about impact. Every word a leader speaks can inspire, comfort, or empower others. Together, Nicole and Genice explore:How to use words that uplift and unite your teamWhy appreciation and handwritten thank-you notes still matterThe power of one-on-one lunches to build trust and candorHow to foster real-time communication across teams and locationsWhy leaders must “coach people in or coach them out” — with kindness and clarity This episode is a masterclass in compassionate leadership, communication, and the importance of building a culture that loves hard and listens well. Vibrant Highlights: [00:07:00] Words Matter — Choose Them Wisely Genice explains how leaders’ words can inspire, motivate, or comfort — or do the opposite. Every conversation shapes the culture. [00:11:40] The 11-Year Impact of One Conversation A story of how something Genice said over a decade ago helped someone through grief — proving that what we say lasts longer than we think. [00:16:00] Find Your “Posse” Through Professional Associations Nicole and Genice discuss the power of community, connection, and finding mentors and peers who lift you up. [00:26:50] Feedback and Follow-Up: How to Coach Effectively Genice shares how she reframes “being called to the manager’s office” as positive, timely, and caring communication — not punishment. [00:35:00] Leadership Lunches that Build Candor and Connection Learn how one-on-one lunches give employees a safe space to share honest feedback — and generate real organizational improvements. [00:44:50] Communicating Change and “WIIFM” Thinking Genice reveals how she keeps her team informed during transitions — always explaining “What’s In It For Me” to keep morale high. Connect with Genice: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/genice-decorte-b9808232/ IG: https://www.instagram.com/genicedeco/ FB: https://www.facebook.com/genice.decorte/ X: https://x.com/geniced Also mentioned in this episode: The One-Minute Manager by Blanchard & Johnson: https://a.co/d/hU66kZ0 Listen at vibrantculture.com/podcast or wherever you get your podcasts! Book Nicole to help your organization ignite clarity, accountability, and energy through her SHINE™ Coaching Methodology. Visit vibrantculture.com Email: nicole@vibrantculture.com Watch Nicole’s TEDx Talk: https://youtu.be/SMbxA90bfXE