Podcast Summary: The Deep Dish – Episode: "Work Well with All Types of People"

Introduction In the April 17, 2025 episode of The Deep Dish, hosted by Melissa Krueger and Courtney Docter of The Gospel Coalition (TGC), the discussion centers around fostering effective teamwork through understanding individual working styles. Joined by their colleague Ann from West Rate, the hosts delve into the concept of the Working Genius assessment—a tool designed to identify personal strengths and frustrations in a work environment. This episode, rich with personal anecdotes and biblical insights, offers listeners practical strategies for enhancing collaboration in various facets of life, including professional settings, church activities, and family dynamics.

Understanding the Working Genius Assessment

Introduction to the Assessment Ann opens the conversation by introducing the Working Genius assessment, emphasizing its distinction from traditional personality tests. “[...] it’s explaining, hey, this is how you work. So it’s not really a personality assessment. It’s explaining, hey, this when it comes to the work you do” ([04:26]). The assessment categorizes individuals into six types of genius—Wonder, Invention, Discernment, Galvanizing, Enablement, and Tenacity—collectively forming the acronym WIDGET.

Breakdown of the WIDGET Model Courtney elaborates on the two primary categories within the model:

• WIDGET Origins (W, I, D):

  • Wonder (W): Individuals who question the status quo, seeking understanding and improvement.
  • Invention (I): Creative thinkers who generate innovative ideas and solutions.
  • Discernment (D): Those who evaluate ideas for their viability and alignment with goals.

• WIDGET Executors (G, E, T):

  • Galvanizing (G): Motivators who energize and rally others around ideas.
  • Enablement (E): Supporters who provide the necessary structure and assistance to implement ideas.
  • Tenacity (T): Perfectionists who ensure tasks are completed thoroughly and efficiently.

Ann adds, “We all have two, what they call geniuses, which I love that [...] two competencies and then two frustrations” ([08:16]). This dual recognition of strengths and frustrations allows for a balanced understanding of team dynamics.

Personal Reflections and Team Dynamics

Identifying Strengths and Frustrations Ann shares her insights into how recognizing frustrations—rather than labeling them as weaknesses—can foster a more supportive environment. She reflects, “Working frustrations are galvanizing and tenacity. Well, here’s the reality. To write a book or to do a project like that, you have to have a lot of tenacity” ([09:02]). This perspective encourages embracing one’s limitations while leveraging strengths effectively.

Biblical Integration The hosts integrate biblical principles, referencing Paul’s teachings in Romans 12 about the diversity of gifts within the body of Christ. Ann states, “We all have gifts, but none of us have all the gifts” ([19:45]). This theological framework underscores the necessity of varied talents working in harmony to fulfill a collective mission.

Application in Various Life Contexts

Professional Environment Courtney discusses how the assessment has transformed their approach to teamwork at TGC. By understanding each member’s strengths, they can delegate tasks more effectively, enhancing both productivity and job satisfaction. For instance, Melissa’s inventive spirit complements Courtney’s ability to galvanize, creating a balanced workflow.

Family and Parenting Ann relates the Working Genius model to motherhood, highlighting how different seasons of parenting require different strengths. “The young years of parenting require a lot of galvanizing and a lot of tenacity” ([15:29]). This insight helps in appreciating the diverse roles that contribute to a harmonious family life.

Church and Community Involvement The conversation emphasizes the importance of stewarding one’s gifts within the church community. Courtney remarks, “If we’re not using our gifts in our local church, like, that’s where they’re for” ([33:10]). This dedication ensures that the church functions effectively as a unified body, each member contributing their unique talents.

Stewardship of Gifts

Active Stewardship Ann poses a critical question on how to steward one’s gifts: “What has it looked like in your life to steward the gifts that God’s given?” ([32:35]). The discussion highlights that stewardship is an active, ongoing process that involves both personal commitment and collective encouragement.

Encouraging Others Courtney emphasizes the role of recognizing and affirming others’ gifts: “Recognizing others gifts and pointing that out and telling them that and saying that to them” ([22:19]). This practice not only strengthens individual members but also fortifies the entire community.

Biblical Foundation

Romans 12: Diverse Yet Unified Ann refers to Romans 12:4-5, reinforcing the idea that “we are one body in Christ,” with each member playing a distinct role. This scriptural backing provides a profound theological basis for appreciating and utilizing diverse gifts within the community.

Practical Takeaways

1. Identify Your Genius: Utilize the Working Genius assessment to understand your strengths and frustrations.
2. Embrace Diversity: Appreciate and leverage the varied talents within your team, family, or church.
3. Encourage and Affirm: Actively recognize and affirm the gifts of others to foster a supportive environment.
4. Biblical Integration: Anchor your understanding of teamwork and stewardship in biblical principles to enhance spiritual growth and community cohesion.

Notable Quotes

• Courtney Docter [06:13]: “W is for Wonder... and I is for Invention. [...] We call them kind of the originators.”
• Ann [09:02]: “Working frustrations are galvanizing and tenacity. Well, here’s the reality. To write a book or to do a project like that, you have to have a lot of tenacity.”
• Courtney Docter [22:19]: “Recognizing others gifts and pointing that out and telling them that and saying that to them.”
• Ann [19:45]: “We all have gifts, but none of us have all the gifts.”

Conclusion

The episode "Work Well with All Types of People" of The Deep Dish offers a comprehensive exploration of the Working Genius assessment as a tool for enhancing teamwork and personal growth. By acknowledging and embracing individual strengths and frustrations, listeners are encouraged to foster environments—be it in professional settings, family, or church—where diverse gifts are recognized and effectively utilized. Anchored in biblical teachings, the discussion underscores the importance of collective effort and mutual support in fulfilling God’s purpose. As Melissa aptly concludes, “He will get you there. And he. You have gifts. The church needs you. And what a wonderful thing.” ([35:56])

Additional Resources For those interested in exploring the Working Genius assessment or subscribing to The Deep Dish, visit tgc.org/women for more information and resources.