Episode 109: Crystallized Intelligence with Shandy Welch

In this episode of the Healthcare Leadership Excellence podcast, we are privileged to have Shandy Welch back on the show. We dive into a topic we’ve never explored before: the role and value of older professionals who are approaching or even past typical retirement age but remain active in the workforce. This is a group that often goes unnoticed in leadership conversations, and today we aim to shed light on the unique strengths they bring.

Shandy and I discuss insights from Arthur Brooks' book, Strength to Strength, which highlights the shift from "fluid intelligence"—a stage in our younger years filled with energy, innovation, and rapid learning—to "crystallized intelligence" as we grow older. This later stage isn’t about decline but about clarity and wisdom.

Shandy emphasizes that leaders in their 40s, 50s, and beyond should focus on harnessing the strengths that come with age, such as strategic thinking, mentoring, and big-picture problem-solving, rather than the drive for constant achievement that younger professionals often experience.

We also touch on the challenges that come with making this mindset shift. Many high achievers struggle to let go of the need for constant validation and busy schedules. Shandy and I explore how crucial it is to align one’s work with personal values and to find clarity in this phase of leadership. It’s about focusing on what truly matters and subtracting what no longer serves a meaningful purpose.

For younger leaders, Shandy offers a reminder: seasoned professionals bring invaluable experience to the table, and it’s essential to create environments that value diverse perspectives. We wrap up with practical steps on identifying and aligning with personal values and encourage listeners to pursue intentional growth at every stage of their careers.

Check out more episodes here.

👉 Who is Karl Pister?
👉 Follow us on LinkedIn.
👉 Have access to leadership materials that will level up your game.
👉 Contact us on our website.

Ready to level up your leadership skills? Sign up for The Coaching Group's leadership courses.