The Perks of Being a Dumb-Ass: Garry Ridge on PYP 622

Garry Ridge is the former CEO of WD-40 and the co-author of Any Dumb-Ass Can Do It, a book about building high-performance cultures through servant leadership, emotional safety, and consistent values. In this conversation, Garry shares not just what he learned during his 25+ years at WD-40, but how he lived it—and how other leaders can too. We talked about what it means to lead with a heart of gold and a backbone of steel, how culture can't be microwaved (spoiler: it's a crockpot), and why being a "dumbass" is actually a leadership superpower. Garry tells stories about turning fear into learning, eliminating the word "manager," and why clarity around values—especially in a hierarchy—gives everyone the confidence to make the right decision, no matter their title. We also explore:Why psychological safety isn't fluff, it's foundationalHow “the soul-sucking CEO” lives in all of us, and what to do about thatWhat happened when Garry went back to school as a CEOHow WD-40 went global using three simple marketing questionsWhy organizations should replace “failure” with “learning moments”The real-world power of love and belonging at workThe “Maniac Pledge” and how it eliminates finger-pointingHow even during COVID, WD-40’s engagement scores stayed sky-high This episode is a warm bath of wisdom, humor, and hope for anyone who wants to lead—at work or in life—with integrity, humility, and heart.LinksGarry Ridge's website: thelearningmoment.netTake the Dumbass Proficiency Quiz hereConnect with Garry on LinkedInJoin the School of Dumb-Assery on LinkedInGarry’s book: Any Dumb-Ass Can Do It