Mike Toguchi | Episode #479
The Team Engagement Podcast – Season 6, Episode 479: Be In the Foxhole with Your Team
In this episode, Shawn Richards welcomes Mike Toguchi, Chief Strategy Officer at Tectonic, for a conversation on leadership, psychological safety, and the importance of standing alongside your team.
Mike shares how Tectonic is helping organizations leverage AI and digital transformation to eliminate repetitive work so people can focus on what matters most: serving others, solving problems, and building meaningful relationships. He explains that while technology continues to evolve, great leadership will always be rooted in trust, communication, and human connection.
Shawn and Mike discuss how leaders create psychologically safe environments by communicating clearly, being transparent about decisions, and taking ownership when things don't go as planned. Mike believes that leaders earn trust by being accountable and by helping team members understand how their individual contributions connect to the organization's broader mission.
One of the central themes of the conversation is Mike's idea of being "in the foxhole" with your team. While leaders may not perform every task themselves, they should remain present, supportive, and committed to equipping their teams with the strategy, resources, and encouragement needed to succeed. He also emphasizes the value of open dialogue, healthy debate, and creating a workplace where different perspectives are welcomed rather than avoided.
The conversation also explores growth mindset and emotional wellness. Mike encourages leaders to balance accountability with encouragement, helping people stretch beyond their comfort zones while recognizing progress along the way. He also discusses the importance of unplugging from work, maintaining healthy boundaries, investing in relationships, and building support systems outside the workplace to sustain long-term leadership.
He closes by sharing a memorable childhood story about skipping school to attend a Phillies game with his father at Wrigley Field, only to discover that he had been caught on television by his teachers the very next day.
⭐ About Mike Toguchi
Mike Toguchi is the Chief Strategy Officer at Tectonic, where he helps organizations leverage technology, AI, and digital transformation to improve efficiency, strengthen operations, and create greater impact.
With experience leading strategy, technology initiatives, and organizational growth, Mike is passionate about helping leaders build healthy cultures rooted in transparency, accountability, and trust. His leadership philosophy combines innovation with a people-first approach that empowers teams to thrive in an ever-changing workplace.
Connect with Mike
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/miketoguchi/
