245: The Workplace Gratitude Practice Most Leaders Are Missing | Joel Zuckerman

Joel Zuckerman, bestselling author of Gratitude Tiger, joins Damon Lembi for a heart-opening conversation about why gratitude is far more than a feel-good habit—it’s a strategic leadership advantage. With over 280 handwritten gratitude letters under his belt, Joel shares how one simple experiment changed the trajectory of his life and career. Together, he and Damon explore why Millennials and Gen Z rank feeling valued as their #1 workplace need, how appreciation drives retention and morale, and why “silent gratitude is useless.” Packed with practical tools leaders can use in minutes—not hours—this episode breaks down how to deepen trust, boost performance, and cultivate workplaces where people truly feel seen.

Read the full breakdown of Joel Zuckerman’s episode on Learnit.

Key Leadership Lessons from Joel Zuckerman’s Journey:

• Gratitude drives retention: Appreciation—not perks—keeps people engaged and motivated.

• Write it down: Handwritten gratitude letters build connection, trust, and long-lasting impact.

• Use the Seven Pillars of Expressive Gratitude: A simple framework for authentic appreciation in any environment.

• Keep gratitude specific: The more detailed your praise, the deeper the trust and connection.

• Small gestures create big change: Even seven words of appreciation can shift morale and performance.

Connect with Joel Zuckerman:

• Website: gratitudetiger.com

• LinkedIn: Joel Zuckerman

• Book: Gratitude Tiger

Joel leads gratitude advocate whose work helps leaders turn appreciation into a powerful catalyst for culture, loyalty, and organizational impact. His mission: make expressive gratitude a daily leadership practice.

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