The Five Words That Change Lives | Zach Mercurio

Have you ever felt invisible at work, like your contributions didn’t matter? You’re not alone. According to Zach Mercurio, that feeling isn’t just uncomfortable—it can actually undermine our motivation, well-being, and overall performance. Zach, author of The Power of Mattering, joins us to explore why mattering is a fundamental human need and how it forms the basis of meaningful work and healthy leadership.

Small interactions can make a lasting impact. From a janitor who found purpose in her job after a simple moment of validation to a manager who kept a notebook to track and follow up on her employees’ personal concerns, these examples reveal how recognizing someone’s value can transform relationships and boost organizational culture. Zach makes the case that mattering isn’t a generational whim—it’s a survival instinct hardwired into us from birth.

We dig into the psychology behind mattering, the difference between meaning, purpose, and mattering, and the ways leaders can scale care and attention in their organizations. If you’re interested in building more connected teams—or simply becoming a better human—this conversation is packed with practical advice and rich insights.

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