In a world obsessed with metrics, titles, and achievements, one of the most powerful human needs often goes overlooked—the need to matter. Dr. Zach Mercurio, author of The Power of Mattering: How Leaders Can Create a Culture of Significance, appears our podcast to explore how this fundamental force shapes our well-being, motivation, and sense of purpose. Drawing from cutting-edge psychology and real-world stories, Zach reveals why mattering is not a “soft skill” but a survival instinct—and how its absence quietly erodes engagement, trust, and performance in our organizations and communities.
Whether you lead a team, a family, or simply want to deepen your human connections, this episode will challenge you to rethink what it truly means to make others—and yourself—feel that you matter.
Mattering is a Survival Instinct – From birth, humans are wired to seek connection and significance. Feeling seen, heard, valued, and needed is as essential to thriving as food or safety.
Technology Has Eroded Our Empathy Muscles –Digital shortcuts—texts, emojis, and Slack messages—often replace the real human interactions that sustain mattering and belonging.
Disengagement is a Mattering Deficit – Quiet quitting, gossip, and withdrawal are not just performance issues—they’re symptoms of people feeling invisible or undervalued.
Notice More Intentionally – This week, make a list of people you interact with regularly. Write down one specific thing you’ve noticed about each—and mention it in conversation.
Ask Better Questions – Replace “How are you?” with “What has your attention today?” or “What’s been most meaningful to you this week?”
Use the “Because of You” Phrase – Tell a colleague, friend, or family member: “Because of you, ___.” Be specific about the impact they’ve made.
