Do Good To Lead Well with Craig Dowden (Craig Dowden)

What if you could harness the power of empathy and optimism to lead your team through the toughest challenges? Join us as we sit down with Omar Halabieh, Head of Technology at Amazon Payment Services, who shares his profound insights on fostering leadership qualities that resonate in today's ever-changing world. Our conversation sheds light on the essence of building genuine connections and maintaining a positive outlook, even when negativity looms large. Omar’s mission to empower and bring out the best in others creates a dialogue rich with ideas and inspiration for aspiring and experienced leaders.

Navigating through uncertainty can be daunting, but it's not insurmountable. In our exploration, we discuss practical strategies to help teams differentiate between what they can control and the external forces like the macro economy that they cannot. With a focus on open communication, trust, and proactive learning, we highlight the importance of addressing diversity and inclusion, and keeping the momentum going despite potential challenges. The discussion offers a toolkit for leaders to foster resilience and self-compassion, ensuring they remain effective and engaged amidst change.

Mentorship is more than just guidance—it's a crucial step in advancing your career. As we close our conversation, we touch on the nuances of creating meaningful mentorship relationships. Learn how to approach potential mentors with confidence and connect your leadership discussions to broader organizational objectives. I hope you listen to our conversation about how to level-up your leadership effectiveness.

What You’ll Learn:

• The power of empathy and optimism in leadership.

• Strategies for navigating uncertainty and rapid change.

• Discovering your values through self-reflection.

• The pivotal role of mentorship in career advancement.

• Sustaining momentum in diversity and inclusion efforts.

Podcast Timestamps:

(00:00) - The Core Leadership Qualities

(12:28) – Effectively Navigating Uncertainty and Change

(18:17) – Navigating Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives

(21:56) - Discovering Leadership Values

(29:41) - Self-Reflection and Personal Growth

(42:42) - Effective Mentorship Practices and Approaches

(49:09) - Building Mentor Relationships

More of Omar:

Omar Halabieh is a global technology executive with over 20 years of experience, currently serving as the Head of Technology at Amazon Payment Services. Passionate about leadership, he has dedicated his career to empowering individuals and teams, fostering high-performance cultures, and driving transformational initiatives that create competitive advantages. With a strong presence on LinkedIn, Omar has built a thriving community of over 70,000 professionals, sharing insights on leadership, management, and career growth, earning recognition as a LinkedIn Top Voice and the #1 LinkedIn Arab World Creator in Management and Leadership. He is also the author of Leadership in 60 Seconds, an insightful ebook complemented by engaging YouTube Shorts. Beyond his professional endeavors, Omar is an avid automotive enthusiast with a love for F1 racing—especially Ferrari—alongside a passion for sports, strength training, fragrances, culinary experiences, and, most importantly, quality time with his family.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/omarhalabieh/

Mentions: https://www.omarhalabieh.com/

Key Topics Discussed:

Positive Leadership, Empathy, Optimism, Overcoming Challenges, Navigating Change and Uncertainty, Instilling Trust, Proactive Learning, Diversity and Inclusion, Mentorship, Career Advancement, Executive Presence, Self-Reflection, Resilience, Personal Growth, Mentor-Mentee Relationship, Strategic Thinking, Effective Communication, CEO Success

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

What if the name you were born with became a barrier to your dream job? Jahanzaib Ansari faced this exact challenge and used his personal story of overcoming discrimination to fuel his passion to create a hiring process that partners with giants like IBM and Deloitte to ensure fairer hiring practices. Through his eyes, you’ll uncover the journey of leading an innovative company in Canada, navigating the hurdles of growth, and using artificial intelligence to champion equality and inclusion in the workforce.

The tech world is ever-changing, and staying ahead requires a unique set of skills. Emphasizing a growth mindset and the ability to remain agile, Jahanzaib discusses how openness to feedback and surrounding oneself with a skilled team can enhance leadership effectiveness. We delve into the importance of resilience in weathering economic challenges and organizational changes. Learn strategies to transform from a negative mindset to one of opportunity and growth, acknowledging that every leader's journey is filled with its own set of trials and triumphs.

The episode wraps up with a focus on navigating AI ethics and fostering trust in professional relationships. Jahanzaib brings attention to the increasing role of Chief Ethics Officers in ensuring ethical use of data and preventing discrimination. We discuss best practices for hiring, advocating for collaboration between recruiters and hiring managers, and the importance of objective competency setting. As the conversation unfolds, we highlight the significance of building trust and fostering Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, despite the societal polarization surrounding these efforts. Jahanzaib underscores the need for organizations to remove unfair gatekeepers, ensuring that all individuals, regardless of background, have equal opportunities to thrive.

What You’ll Learn:

• The evolution of leadership in the fast-paced world of A.I.

• Building resilience and fostering a growth mindset

• Navigating A.I. ethics and promoting bias-free hiring practices

• The importance of trust and collaboration in professional relationships

• Overcoming societal polarization to champion Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives

Podcast Timestamps:

(00:00) - Turning Bias Into Opportunity: Knockri's Origin Story

(14:59) - Building Resilience Through A Growth Mindset

(29:36) - Navigating Ethics: A.I. and Hiring Practices

(36:29) - Building Trust and DEI Practices

(44:20) - Mastering Self-Leadership Is A Lifelong Process

More of Jahanzaib Ansari:

Jahanzaib Ansari is the co-founder of Knockri, an award-winning behavioral assessment platform that integrates ethical AI with I/O Psychology to revolutionize hiring. Driven by a mission to create a more inclusive, fair, and efficient recruitment process, he partners with Fortune 500 companies like IBM, Deloitte, SAP, and the Canadian Federal Government to help them build diverse teams and foster equity. Beyond leading Knockri, Jahanzaib serves as a Next Generation Business Leader to the Business Council of Canada, collaborating with top executives to drive meaningful change. A recognized thought leader in AI, the Future of Work, and Diversity, he has spoken at prestigious international events and earned accolades such as Innovator of the Year by Ascend, the Exceptional Leadership Award by AUSCAN Forum, and a spot on HRD Magazine’s list of Canada’s Rising Stars.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jansari1/

Key Topics Discussed:

Positive Leadership, Entrepreneurship, Tech Innovation, Adaptability, A.I., Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Hiring, Ethics, Resilience, Growth Mindset, Agility, Receiving Feedback, Persistence, Collaboration, Building Trust, DEI, Leading with Transparency, Chief Ethics Officer, Establishing Credibility, Emerging Leaders, Servant Leadership, Self-Leadership, CEO Success

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

How can I involve creativity in my work? What can I do when things go wrong? In this episode, Christina Dove answers these questions and more.

What You’ll Learn:

1. The importance of remembering your roots and sharing that through your art.

2. How to involve your community in your business, and make it matter.

3. We are all creative!

4. How to involve your team in the creative process.

5. Creating a culture of open communication.

6. Leading is a process of learning.

Who is Christina?

Christina is the President and CEO of the Newfoundland Chocolate Company, proudly representing her province around the world through delicious treats! While her chocolate company turns 15 years old, Christina pursues a PhD in medicine at Memorial University. Starting out in St. John’s, the Newfoundland Chocolate Company has gone international, and is a special taste of home for Newfoundlanders whether they’re traveling or returning home.

Follow Christina:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christina-dove/ 

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Gaslighting was the word of the year in 2022. It is referenced often and shows up in our personal and professional lives. To start off the New Year, I decided to share my personal and difficult journey with gaslighting in a relationship that was very important to me. My hope in sharing my experience is to unpack the critical moments, emotions, and insights that emerged.

Key Takeaways:

1. The history of the relationship and some of the ongoing challenges and consequences, including disengagement and disillusionment.

2. A critical inflection point where I decided to interrupt the gaslighting tango and insert more of myself and my values into the conversation.

3. My commitment to approaching the conversation and the other person with non-reactivity and curiosity.

4. How the conversation unfolded with that approach and the key things I learned.

5. Why approaching challenging and dysfunctional relationships through the lens of our core values is critical for honoring ourselves.

6. While our core values are essential navigational tools for our journey in leadership and in life, they profoundly affect the relationships we maintain and those we let go. 

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Prepare for an eye-opening conversation as Bill George, celebrated Harvard faculty member and former CEO of Medtronic, joins the Do Good to Lead Well podcast to share his profound insights. With his latest bestseller, "True North for Emerging Leaders," Bill sheds light on the seismic shift from traditional, ego-centric leadership to a purpose-driven model. This episode unpacks the essence of authenticity and integrity, showcasing how modern leaders, from Satya Nadella to Mary Barra, are staying true to their principles while driving meaningful change.

Challenges and adversity often serve as catalysts for growth, and this episode explores how leaders can harness these experiences to foster continuous learning and resilience. Drawing from inspiring examples, we discuss the power of maintaining core values and fostering diversity and inclusion within organizations. Emotional intelligence and courage emerge as pivotal traits for global leadership, helping executives navigate adversities while cultivating inspired, inclusive teams.

We wrap up with strategies for emerging leaders eager to make their mark in today's fast-paced world. From empowering frontline leadership to fostering honest conversations, this episode is rich with actionable insights. We explore the importance of feedback, self-awareness, and humility in steering clear of the pitfalls that can ensnare unwary leaders. Join us as we embrace the transformative power of authenticity, purpose, and intentionality, enabling you to lead with conviction and create lasting impact.

What You’ll Learn:

• Discover the power of authenticity and integrity in leadership through inspiring examples from leaders like Satya Nadella and Mary Barra.

• Learn how challenges and adversity can serve as catalysts for growth, fostering resilience and continuous learning.

• Explore the importance of maintaining core values, fostering diversity and inclusion, and cultivating emotional intelligence and courage in leadership.

• Get actionable insights on empowering frontline leadership, navigating honest conversations, and leveraging feedback for personal and organizational growth.

Podcast Timestamps:

(00:00) - True North for Emerging Leaders

(11:30) - Navigating Adversity and its Role in Leadership Growth

(16:51) - Staying True to Your Values

(22:35) - Empowering Frontline Leadership for Success

(32:47) - Building Courage in Global Leadership

(36:55) - Creating Inclusive Environments Through Honest Conversations

(42:35) - Leadership Strategies for Building Resilience

More of Bill:

Bill George is an esteemed executive fellow at Harvard Business School, where he taught leadership as a Professor of Management Practice and Senior Fellow from 2004 to 2022. He is the former chairman and CEO of Medtronic. Prior to Medtronic, he held senior roles at Honeywell, Litton Industries, and the U.S. Department of Defense. A prolific author, Bill has written several influential books on leadership, including True North: Emerging Leader Edition and Authentic Leadership. A frequent contributor to CNBC, Fortune, and The Wall Street Journal, Bill holds a BSIE from Georgia Tech, an MBA from Harvard, and multiple honorary doctorates.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/williamwgeorge/ 

Mentions:

True North, Emerging Leader Edition: Leading Authentically in Today's Workplace by Bill George and Zach Clayton

Key Topics Discussed:

Positive Leadership, Medtronic, True North, Emerging Leaders, Authenticity, Integrity, Purpose-driven, Satya Nadella, Adversity, Continuous Learning, Resilience, Core Values, Emotional Intelligence, Courage, Global Leadership, Frontline Leadership, Empowerment, Organizational Culture, Inspired Teams, Bold Decisions, Diversity and Inclusion, Inclusive Environments, Honest Conversations, Self-awareness, Humility, Feedback, 360-degree Feedback, CEO Success

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

In today's episode, Craig Dowden has an engaging dialogue with Alan Mulally, former CEO of Ford Motor Company and Boeing Commercial Airplanes. Mulally sheds more light on the "Working Together" management system, the basis of his leadership philosophy which was key in turning around the fortunes of Ford Motor Company. He speaks on his journey from Kansas to how he ended up leading global organizations that sought him out for his unique leadership qualities. 

This exclusive conversation offers considerable insights into the world of leadership, culture development, and the importance of self-awareness. 

Given the opportunity, how would you implement the elements and engage your team to contribute towards and participate in the plan?

What You’ll Learn:

How opportunities teach people to make strategic decisions

The direct, positive effect of employee engagement and satisfaction

Ways to build smart, healthy organizations and phenomenal partnerships

Value creation for stakeholders through inclusivity

The impact of having solid implementation plans that everyone knows

Building emotional resilience among team members

Behaviors to avoid and get authentic insights and feedback from the team

The 5 elements of the working together management system

Dealing with reality in the workplace to come up with a solution

More of Alan:

Alan Mulally is an American aerospace engineer and manufacturing executive. He served as the CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes and later as president and CEO of Ford Motor Company. He led the transformation of Ford Motor Company into a top automobile brand. Mulally is credited with turning around both Ford and Boeing during challenging times. He made significant contributions to Boeing projects and was known for his role in the design of the first all-digital flight deck in a commercial aircraft. Mulally was appointed to the Board of Directors of Google in 2014 and inducted into the International Air & Space Hall of Fame in 2015.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alan-mulally-29017a130/

Do Good To Lead Well: the Science and Practice of Positive Leadership by Craig Dowden

A Time To Lead - Mastering Your Self…So You Can Master Your World by Craig Dowden

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

⁠How does one navigate leadership in a world that can be best described as VUCA - volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous? That's the question we tackle with our special guest, Doug Conant, bestselling author, award-winning keynote speaker and former CEO of Campbell Soup Company. Doug draws from his extensive 45-year career to provide insights on how proactive and intentional leadership paves the way through this VUCA terrain. He walks us through mastering our personal stories and the power of resilience that stems from it, fostering an environment of clear communication to alleviate team anxiety, and how the essence of clarity and communication shapes leadership.⁠

Together, we venture forward to explore the concept of 'listen, frame, advance' as a key mechanism to push issues forward. Doug passionately speaks about the importance of leaders openly declaring their values, creating a solid foundation for trust. We emphasize the 'genius of the and', a concept that Doug believes holds immense power in leadership. His experiences coupled with his unique insights on leading with an abundance mindset provide a fresh perspective on leadership practices.

Rounding off our riveting discussion, Doug offers his reflections on the future of leadership and the role of the next generation of leaders. He shares his belief in the 'eye of the tiger', a drive and determination he believes is key to building a better world. Lastly, Doug leaves us with some valuable wisdom on the importance of gratitude in our personal and professional lives. Join us for this enlightening talk and be inspired by Doug's vision of leadership.

What You’ll Learn:

• Proactive strategies for adapting to the ever-evolving leadership landscape

• The crucial role of clarity and communication in fostering team trust

• Harnessing the "power of and" to unlock abundance in leadership

• Empowering the next generation with the 'eye of the tiger'

• The transformative impact of gratitude and engagement in every interaction

Podcast Timestamps:

(00:00) - Leadership Challenges in a VUCA World

(13:40) - Managing Anxiety in Teams

(19:01) – The Importance of Clarity & Communication in Leadership

(30:01) – The Power of 'And'

(42:59) - Future Leadership, Better World

More of Doug:

Doug Conant is the only Fortune 500 CEO who is a New York Times and Wall Street Journal bestselling author. He’s a top 50 leadership innovator, a top 100 leadership speaker, and one of the most influential authors in the world. With a 45 year career defined by achieving high performance through an intentional commitment to studying, Doug is now sharing the tenants of leadership that work. He is the founder and CEO of Conant leadership, former President and CEO of Campbell Soup Company, former president of Nabisco Foods, and former chairman of Avon products. Corporate boards Dough has served on, include those of Amerisource, Bergen, and RHR International. His latest Wall Street Journal bestselling book, co-authored with Amy Federman is The Blueprint: Six Practical Strategies to Lift Your Leadership to New Heights.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dougconant/

Key Topics Discussed:

Positive Leadership, Respectful Workplace, VUCA World, Courageous Leadership, Leading with Conviction, Managing Anxiety, Clarity, Communication, Power of 'And', Future-Proof Leadership, Gratitude, Maximize Engagement, Resilience, Core Values, Principles, Clarify Expectations, Abundance Mindset, Performance Measurement, Feedback, CEO Success

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

How can you champion diversity and inclusion while still honoring individual uniqueness? Join us for an enlightening conversation with Dr. Stephanie K. Johnson, the director of the Doer Institute for New Leaders at Rice University and Wall Street Journal bestselling author of "Inclusify." Dr. Johnson shares her journey back to Rice and her dedicated efforts to cultivate future leaders through innovative coaching and training programs. Get ready to uncover the driving force behind her influential research on unconscious biases and her mission to foster truly inclusive leadership practices.

We'll dissect the delicate balance of fostering belonging without forcing conformity. Drawing on concepts like optimal distinctiveness theory, Dr. Johnson sheds light on how businesses can create environments where employees feel both included and free to express their unique contributions.

In our final segment, we get tactical about creating fair and welcoming workplaces. From acknowledging headwinds and tailwinds in professional development to navigating biases in recruitment, Dr. Johnson offers actionable advice on setting clear, unbiased hiring criteria and challenging the "white knight" phenomenon in leadership. With empathy at the core, she provides practical strategies to champion diversity and inclusion effectively. Don't miss out on this episode packed with resources and expert guidance to enhance your organization's commitment to true inclusivity.

What You’ll Learn:

• The delicate balance between fostering a sense of belonging and maintaining individual uniqueness within inclusive environments.

• Practical exercises and tools to recognize and manage unconscious biases.

• The concept of headwinds and tailwinds in personal and professional development.

• Strategies for fair recruitment and hiring practices and addressing biases to build truly inclusive organizational settings.

• The nuances of the "white knight" phenomenon in leadership and how good intentions must align with effective behaviors to support inclusivity.

Podcast Timestamps:

(00:00) – An Introduction to Inclusify

(09:43) - Fostering Belonging and Uniqueness

(19:12) - Creating Inclusive Environments

(31:23) - Navigating Bias in Recruitment and Selection

(37:26) - Establishing Clear and Fair Hiring Criteria

(44:20) – Good Intentions Can Lead to Negative Outcomes

(59:01) - Embracing Empathy and Understanding

More of Stefanie:

Stefanie is passionate about finding strategies to maximize employee innovation, engagement, and well-being by (1) overcoming unconscious bias and (2) building more diverse and inclusive workplaces.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drstefjohnson/

Key Topics Discussed:

Positive Leadership, Inclusion, Diversity, Coaching, Unconscious Bias, Inclusify, Corporate Culture, Belonging, Uniqueness, Optimal Distinctiveness Theory, Empathy, Diversity in Hiring Practices, Promoting Fairness, Inclusive Leadership, CEO Success

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Renowned start-up coach and author Alyssa Cohn joins us to share powerful insights into the critical steps for transformative leadership. With her book "From Startup to Grownup" as a guide, Alyssa explores the essential growth that founders undergo as they evolve into effective leaders. She sheds light on often overlooked yet vital leadership skills, including managing budgets, leading productive meetings, and handling tough conversations. Her extensive experience with both startups and Fortune 500 companies provides a rich backdrop for her advice, making this episode invaluable for anyone looking to elevate their leadership journey.

Alisa delves into the critical nature of self-awareness for leaders, especially those thrust into leadership roles without formal training. She emphasizes that leaders' actions and words carry more weight than they might realize, often being scrutinized by their teams. Through practical tools like journaling, Alyssa guides leaders to better understand their motivations and emotional impacts, offering ways to manage imposter syndrome by challenging negative self-talk and embracing a growth mindset. Our discussion includes techniques for receiving and acting on 360-degree feedback, helping leaders identify strengths and blind spots.

Building and nurturing effective teams is another focal point of this conversation. Alyssa stresses the importance of personalizing leadership routines to align with individual strengths and optimizing existing teams before expanding. She offers strategies for creating clarity in hiring processes and ensuring cultural fit, while also sharing scripts for handling difficult conversations, available on her website. This episode is packed with actionable insights and tools, making it a treasure trove for aspiring leaders eager to grow their businesses and themselves.

What You’ll Learn:

• Transitioning from founder to effective leader.

• Unlocking leadership potential through self-awareness.

• Mastering team dynamics and optimizing team strengths.

• Overcoming imposter syndrome with a growth mindset.

• Techniques for receiving and acting on 360-degree feedback.

Podcast Timestamps:

(00:00) Lessons in Leadership: From Startups to Fortune 500 CEOs

(06:44) Self-Awareness as the Foundation for Leadership Development

(15:53) Optimizing 360 Feedback with a Growth Mindset

(22:03) Managing Imposter Syndrome

(27:30) Building Effective Leadership Routines

(32:52) Effective Team Building

(37:10) Values-Based Leadership 

(44:49) Difficult Conversations as Opportunities

More of Alisa:

Alisa Cohn is a globally recognized executive coach, named the #1 Startup Coach in the world at the Thinkers50 Marshall Goldsmith Leading Coaches Awards and one of the Top 30 Global Gurus for Startups. Based in New York City, she works with startup CEOs, co-founders, executives, and Fortune 500 leaders from companies such as Venmo, Etsy, Pfizer, IBM, and The New York Times. Alisa is the author of From Start-Up to Grown-Up, a multi-award-winning book and podcast. She frequently speaks at prestigious institutions, including Harvard and Cornell, and has been featured in the New York Times, BBC, and more. With expertise in executive presence, strategic decision-making, and personal branding, Alisa also designs workshops for leaders and teams.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alisacohn/

Website: https://www.alisacohn.com/

Podcast: https://www.alisacohn.com/podcast/

Mentions:

From Start-Up to Grown-Up by Alisa Cohn

5 Scripts: https://www.alisacohn.com/5scripts/

Key Topics Discussed:

Positive Leadership, Startup Leadership, From Startup to Grownup, Leadership Skills, Effective Meetings, Tough Conversations, Self-Awareness, Emotional Impact, Imposter Syndrome, Growth Mindset, 360 Feedback, Hiring Processes, Cultural Fit, Leading with Values, Difficult Conversations, Communication Scripts, Leadership Journey, CEO Success

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Have you ever considered that showing yourself kindness could be the key to overcoming life's hurdles? This week, I had the privilege of welcoming Dr. Kristin Neff, a trailblazer in the field of self-compassion research, and together we embarked on a conversation that promises to alter the way you confront personal and professional challenges. Through Dr. Neff's compelling personal narrative, we unearth the transformative power of self-compassion, demonstrating how it can shift our typical self-critical responses to a nurturing and supportive mindset.

During this insightful conversation, Dr. Neff and I tackle the myths surrounding self-compassion, shedding light on how it distinguishes from self-pity and actually promotes a heightened sense of shared humanity and resilience, particularly within the high-pressure realm of leadership. We unpack how incorporating self-compassion can reduce burnout, enhance performance, and redirect one's inner critic to become a source of encouragement, akin to a coach championing their team.

As we wrap up our conversation, Dr. Neff offers tangible strategies for applying self-compassion to navigate the stormy seas of negative emotions. We delve into the simple yet profound effects of physical gestures of self-kindness and the power of addressing ourselves with the same compassion we'd extend to a dear friend. By embracing these practices, listeners will find encouragement to foster personal growth, align with their core values, and approach life's adversities with a balanced mix of courage and tenderness.

What You’ll Learn:

• The essential differences between self-compassion, self-esteem, and self-pity.

• Intriguing research findings on how self-compassion can combat workplace burnout and bolster resilience.

• How self-compassion allows you to take more, not less, responsibility and grow.

• The role of self-talk and journaling in reinforcing your self-compassion.

• Practical strategies for managing negative emotions with grace and self-understanding.

Podcast Timestamps:

(00:00) – An Introduction to Self-Compassion

(10:11) – The Benefits of Self-Compassion

(17:00) - Misconceptions About Self-Compassion

(30:12) - The Power of Acceptance

(38:45) - The Crucial Role of Self-Compassion in Aligning with Our Core Values

(44:27) - Self-Compassion in Dealing With Negative Emotions

Key Topics Discussed:

Self-Compassion, Mindfulness, Personal Growth, Positive Leadership, Self-Leadership, Burnout, Resilience, Negative Emotions, Authenticity, Values, Emotional Well-Being, Mastering Emotions, Journaling, Managing Your Inner Critic, Forgiveness, Emotional Healing, Emotional Intelligence

More of Kristin:

Kristin Neff is currently an Associate Professor of Educational Psychology at the University of Texas at Austin, and is a pioneer in the field of self-compassion research. She conducted the first empirical studies on self-compassion more than 20 years ago, and her extraordinary career in this space has led her to publish books and articles, and share her practices with the world through the Center for Mindful Self-Compassion. Dr. Neff has been recognized as one of the most influential researchers in psychology worldwide. She is the author of the best selling book, Self-Compassion. And her latest book is Fierce Self Compassion, How Women Can Harness Kindness to Speak Up, Claim Their Power, and Thrive. Along with her colleague Chris Germer, she has developed the empirically supported Mindful Self Compassion program and founded the Center for Mindful Self Compassion. Recently, they co-wrote the best selling book, The Mindful Self-Compassion Workbook: A Proven Way to Accept Yourself, Build Inner Strength, and Thrive. 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinneff/ 

Website: https://self-compassion.org/ 

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Rebecca Kacaba, CEO of DealMaker, joins us on the Do Good to Lead Well podcast, sharing her captivating journey from a corporate attorney to a trailblazing entrepreneur reshaping North America's tech landscape. Her transition from law to entrepreneurship is driven by a desire to tackle the financing hurdles startup founders face. Rebecca's story is rich with lessons in empathy, resilience, and persistence, and how being mindful of our mindset can bring about transformative changes in our personal and professional lives.

We explore the traits essential for leadership today, particularly adaptability and grit, which are crucial in the ever-evolving tech world. Rebecca shares her insights on fostering adaptability within organizations through creative exercises and how maintaining a solid vision aligned with strategic goals is crucial for leaders. Balancing empathy with leadership responsibilities, she illustrates how fostering a culture of integrity and autonomy can democratize access to capital markets, showcasing DealMaker's mission.

Rebecca also candidly discusses overcoming imposter syndrome and embracing authenticity. She shares how being genuine reduces stress and builds meaningful connections. The episode wraps up with a thoughtful discussion on AI's impact on leadership, emphasizing the need for empathy and visionary leadership. Rebecca's insights provide a wealth of knowledge for aspiring leaders and entrepreneurs eager to make a significant impact beyond their balance sheet.

What You’ll Learn:

• The essential traits for modern leadership, such as adaptability and grit.

• Strategies for fostering adaptability within organizations.

• Overcoming imposter syndrome

• Embracing authenticity to build meaningful connections.

• The role of AI in the future of leadership and the enduring need for empathy and visionary leadership.

Podcast Timestamps:

(00:00) – The Journey from Attorney to Tech CEO

(10:50) - Building Adaptive Leadership with Grit

(26:30) – The Importance of Empathy and Integrity in Leadership

(38:43) - Embracing Authenticity and Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

(46:33) - Navigating AI and the Future of Leadership

More of Rebecca:

Rebecca Kacaba is the CEO and co-founder of DealMaker, a leading capital-raising platform revolutionizing the industry with cutting-edge technology. A former securities lawyer with over a decade of experience on Bay Street, she co-chaired the Toronto Venture Technology and Emerging Growth Companies group at a global law firm before launching DealMaker to streamline and modernize fundraising. Under her leadership, DealMaker has processed over $2 billion in transactions, earning recognition on Deloitte’s Canada Technology Fast 50 and North America’s Fast 500 lists, ranking alongside and even above industry giants like Zoom and DraftKings. Named one of North America’s most innovative lawyers by the Financial Times and one of Canada's most admired CEOs, Rebecca is dedicated to empowering founders to raise capital as easily as e-commerce, turning supporters into shareholders and reshaping the future of capital markets.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccakacaba/

Mentions: 

DealMaker: https://www.dealmaker.tech/

Key Topics Discussed:

Positive Leadership, Entrepreneurship, Tech Innovation, Adaptability, Inspiration, Core Values, Artificial Intelligence, Financing, Startup Founders, Empathy, Resilience, Persistence, Grit, Capital Markets, Leading with Integrity, Authenticity, Dealing with Imposter Syndrome, Vulnerability, Mentorship, AI Strategy, Visionary Leadership, Personal Growth, CEO Success

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

What if the secret to successful leadership lies not in expertise but in empathy and purpose? Join us as we sit down with Dr. Lisa Calder, CEO of the Canadian Medical Protective Association, to uncover what it truly takes to lead with impact in today's fast-paced world. Dr. Calder, who brings a wealth of experience from her background as an emergency physician, shares her unique insights on synthesizing dynamic information and leveraging generalist skills to build and optimize expert teams, all while managing ego and understanding one's purpose.

Explore the essence of intentional reflection in elevating your leadership practice. Dr. Calder shares practical strategies like the "five whys," mind mapping, and the use of a color-coded calendar to align professional and personal goals. These tools and strategies offer a roadmap for maintaining balance and focus in a demanding environment.

Dr. Calder shares her personal wellness journey, emphasizing the importance of intentional energy management, authenticity, and vulnerability. We discuss how these qualities foster a supportive organizational culture and normalize mental health, setting clear boundaries for disconnecting from work. By role modeling healthy behaviors and embedding wellness practices into daily routines, leaders can significantly enhance both personal and organizational well-being. Tune in to discover actionable strategies for leading with empathy and resilience.

What You’ll Learn:

• Don’t aim to be the smartest person in the room: Be the best leader in the room

• The value of generalist skills for 21st-century leadership

• Manage our egos to manage our success

• Why you need to know where you spend your time

• The keys to effectively managing your energy

• The parallels between sports leadership and building a peak performance company

• How to instill EDI into the fabric of your organization

Podcast Timestamps:

(00:00) Keys to Successful Leadership

(09:56) The Power of Reflection and Time Management for Leaders

(22:37) Why the Best Leaders Care About Empathy

(29:54) Fostering Resilience in Organizations

(35:53) Promoting Wellness and Well-Being

(41:02) Authenticity and Vulnerability: A Dynamic Duo for Leadership Excellence

(47:15) EDI and the Need to Focus on Continuous Improvement

More of Lisa:

Dr. Lisa Calder is a distinguished healthcare leader, emergency physician, and researcher with a demonstrated history of working in hospital and healthcare settings. She excels in leveraging analytics to drive data-informed improvements in clinical care, with expertise in clinical research, patient safety, quality improvement, and medico-legal data analysis. As a collaborator, innovator, and team builder, Dr. Calder works across various departments within the CMPA and with healthcare stakeholders to enhance care safety through research. She is renowned for her dynamic teaching and presenting style, having received numerous awards for her contributions. Dr. Calder has published over 80 research papers, significantly advancing the CMPA's research profile in patient safety, obstetrical care, surgical care, and risk management.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-calder-8aa9b441/

Key Topics Discussed:

Empathy, Purpose, Canadian Medical Protective Association, Managing Expert Teams, Managing our Ego, Effective Time Management, Reflection, Intentional Leadership, Coaching, Mind Mapping, Maintaining Balance, Focus, Emotional Intelligence, Wellness, Vulnerability, Mental Health, Energy Management, Authenticity, Organizational Culture, Meditation, Self-Awareness, Energy-Draining Activities, Mental Health Stigma, Boundaries, Role Modeling, Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, Continuous Improvement, CEO Success

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Today is a very special day in the Do Good to Lead Well universe! The podcast officially turns 100. It is hard to imagine how far we have traveled together in a very short time. It is impossible to do justice to the amazing conversations we have shared together.

To mark this very special occasion, I curated some of the most inspiring and thought-provoking insights shared by the CEOs, bestselling authors, and TED speakers I have spoken with over the past 2 years. I picked the clips that attendees most commented on during or after the live broadcast.

My goal on putting this episode together was to provide a masterclass on self-leadership. After sharing these powerful clips, I’ll provide my commentary, linking the threads together and connecting them with past guests.

At the close of the episode, the tables are turned as Alan Mulally, the former CEO of Ford Motor Company and my collaborator on my latest book, asks me a question or two. I hope you enjoy this extended episode as much as I did putting it together.

What You’ll Learn:

• Why we need to manage things and lead people.

• How radical respect is the foundation of leadership effectiveness.

• Why the best leaders focus on continuous improvement.

• How to better manage our egos

• Delegation allows us to scale ourselves as leaders and uplevel our team members.

• Ways to create an inclusive environment.

• How to maximize personal accountability

• Navigating conflict and leading with courage

• Building resilience 

• Mastering authentic leadership

Podcast Timestamps:

(00:00) - A Heartfelt Thank You

(07:11) - Manage Things, Lead People with Stephen M.R. Covey (Bestselling Author of Trust & Inspire and The Speed of Trust)

(13:27) - Radical Respect: A Foundation for Positive Leadership with Kim Scott (Bestselling Author of Radical Respect and Radical Candor)

(17:27) - What Do I Need to Do to Be Better? With Dr. Lisa Calder (CEO, Canadian Medical Protective Association)

(22:21) - Humility Is The New Smart with Ed Hess (Bestselling Author + Professor Emeritus, Darden)

(27:01) - Unleashing the Power of Your Team with Sue Hutchison (President and CEO of Equifax Canada)

(31:45) - The Power of Curiosity and Asking Questions with Tracey Black (Former CEO of Payments Canada)

(35:38) - Give Things Away to Scale Yourself with Adam Bryant (Bestselling Author of The Leap to Leader and The Corner Office)

(40:35) - Truly Creating an Inclusive Environment with Sally Helegesen (Bestselling Author of Rising Together and How Women Rise)

(44:54) - How to Leverage the Upsides of Conflict with Matt Abrahams (Bestselling author of Think Faster, Talk Smarter)

(51:32) - Leading with Courage with Doug Conant (Bestselling Author of The Blue Print + former CEO of Campbell Soup Company)

(57:22) - The Maniac Pledge: A Mantra for Personal Accountability with Garry Ridge (Bestselling author + former Chairman and CEO WD-40 Company)

(1:02:57) - Self-Compassion: An Underdeveloped leadership and life skill with Kristin Neff (Bestselling author and pioneering researcher)

(1:08:35) - What Is Authentic Leadership? with Alan Mulally (Former CEO of Ford Motor Company)

Key Topics Discussed:

Positive Leadership, Managing Emotions, Emotional Intelligence, Mindset, Humility, Learning Moments, Asking Questions, Seeking Feedback, Resilience, Empathy, Accountability, Inclusivity, Delegation, Coaching, Curiosity, Active Listening, Leading with Courage, Vulnerability, Values, Productivity, Self-Discovery, Self-Leadership, CEO Success

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

What if you could predict the success of leaders with precision in your organization? In our latest episode, we unlock the secrets behind effective leadership with our guests, Barry Conchie and Sarah Dalton, the brilliant minds behind "The Five Talents That Really Matter." Barry and Sarah bring a wealth of experience in leadership assessment, dissecting the critical elements that define exceptional leaders and how these talents—setting direction, driving motivation, influencing others, building connectivity, and managing execution—uniquely contribute to long-term success.

Join us as we challenge the traditional approaches to leadership selection and development. We explore the flaws of popular tools like the Myers-Briggs and instead focus on the predictive power of data-driven assessments. Barry and Sarah highlight how evidence-based tools offer profound insights into a leader's potential, far beyond the superficial analysis of many widely used methods. We also dive into the pitfalls of conventional interview questions and spotlight the importance of crafting questions that truly predict performance, avoiding the common traps that many organizations fall into.

Cultural fit versus cultural enhancement takes center stage in our discussion on the evolving workplace landscape. We examine the notion that unique perspectives and talents should triumph over mere likability in team dynamics. Our conversation extends to the importance of self-awareness and strategic thinking in leadership roles, highlighting the rarity of genuine strategic processing. Discover how to steer clear of the “fast cars without steering wheels” scenario in leadership, and why fair and unbiased assessment tools are crucial for identifying diverse talent. Whether you're looking to refine your leadership selection process or uncover robust leadership capabilities, this episode is packed with actionable insights and expert advice.

What You’ll Learn:

• Discover the five critical talents for executive success.

• Explore how structured interviews can provide a nuanced understanding of leadership capabilities beyond traditional methods.

• Learn why cultural enhancement is crucial for a dynamic and inclusive workplace.

• Understand the common pitfalls in leadership selection and how data-driven assessments can help identify truly effective leaders.

Podcast Timestamps:

(00:00) - Truly Predicting Leadership Success

(08:15) - Predictive Validity of Leadership Assessment

(17:22) - Leadership Talent Assessment

(22:48) - Common Unhelpful Interview Questions

(31:17) - Rethinking Cultural Fit in Leadership

(35:50) - Leadership Development

(48:38) - The Importance of Self-Awareness in Leadership

More of Barry & Sarah:

Sarah on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/sjdalton/ 

Barry on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/barryconchie/ 

Key Topics Discussed:

Positive Leadership, Leadership Selection, Organizational Performance, Leadership Assessment, Cultural Fit, Myers-Briggs, Predicting Performance, Team Dynamics, Self-Awareness, Predicting Success, Critical Thinking, Empathy, Effective Leaders, Personality Assessments, CEO Success

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website:https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Imagine stepping into a high-profile leadership role, just as a global pandemic hits. This was the reality for Tracey Black, President and CEO of Payments Canada. In our deeply insightful conversation, Tracey offers a candid look into her leadership style, the challenges she faced, and the lessons she learned.

Have you ever considered the power of authenticity and empathy in leadership, especially in the face of adversity? Tracey emphasizes how these traits have not only shaped her as a leader, but have also been vital in navigating the pandemic and the challenges and opportunities it provided. From addressing the struggles faced by individuals with invisible disabilities, to maintaining constructive dialogue amidst conflict, her experiences underscore the need for understanding and commitment in leadership during difficult times.

Finally, we address the undervalued importance of self-care and engaging in intentional networking. Tracey spotlights the myriad advantages that can spring from connecting with a diverse group of individuals - it's all about broadening perspectives and building relationships. She also speaks on the powerful role of mentors and sponsors in supporting one's growth, reminding us that no one climbs the ladder of success alone.

What You’ll Learn:

• The importance of authenticity and empathy in leadership

• How to create inclusive work environments, including for those with invisible disabilities

• Effective communication strategies for difficult conversations

• Questions open doors; statements close doors

• The benefits of networking and maintaining diverse interests

• The influential role of mentors and sponsors in career growth

Podcast Timestamps:

(00:00) – Imagine Your First Day as CEO is the Start of a Pandemic

(14:03) - Empathy and Understanding in Workplace Accommodations

(17:18) – Maintaining Constructive Dialogue During Disagreements

(29:25) – Self-care and the Power of Networking

(34:47) – Taking Risks and Making Decisions with Incomplete Information

(43:50) – The Impact of in-Person Connection

Key Topics Discussed:

Positive Leadership, Authenticity, Empathy, Integrity, Invisible Disabilities, Trust-Building, Inquiry, Constructive Dialogue, Managing Disagreements, Self-Care, Networking, Diverse Interests, Mentorship, Sponsors, In-Person Conversation, Meaningful Connection, Crisis Leadership, Gratitude

More of Tracey:

Tracey Black is the President and CEO of Payments Canada. Taking over the role in early 2020, Tracey saw the organization through a period of tremendous change. Payments Canada plays a vital role in supporting the Canadian economy as it ensures that our financial transactions are carried out safely and securely. In 2022, Payments Canada systems cleared and settled 119 trillion transactions. That works out to 476 billion every single business day! Tracey’s past experience includes executive roles at TD Canada Trust and RBC Royal Bank, and she's consulted extensively in the financial services industry as an independent consultant and with McKinsey Company. As President of GFH Group Inc. her responsibilities included the launch of chip cards or smart cards in Canada. 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracey-black-2606884/ 

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

During these challenging times, what are the qualities a leader needs to not only get through, but thrive? Groundbreaking research alongside the wisdom of some of the world’s most prominent CEOs has led Craig Dowden, PhD, to understand that great leadership starts with great self-leadership. Craig walks listeners through the history of conceptualizing his latest Wall Street Journal and USA Today bestseller, A Time to Lead: Mastering Your Self . . . So You Can Master Your World, which depicts a personal framework for maximizing our leadership potential.

What You’ll Learn:

The seven essential leadership qualities:

(09:10) - Mastering your mindset

(12:40) - Mastering your emotions

(15:00) - Mastering your resiliency

(17:40) - Mastering your strengths

(19:50) - Mastering the art of receiving feedback

(23:10) - Mastering difficult conversations

(28:00) - Mastering authentic leadership

Mentions:

A Time to Lead: Mastering Your Self . . . So You Can Master Your World: https://www.amazon.com/Time-Lead-Mastering-Master-World/dp/1637630751

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

How can business leaders ensure that the culture they build within their organization is not only strong and cohesive, but reflects the values they originally set out to encapsulate? Join us, as Alim Somani answers this question and many more.

What You’ll Learn:

1. The importance of asking the best questions rather than having the right answers.

2. Propagating value sets throughout your organization that align with not only your company’s mission, but all stakeholders involved.

3. The three most important attributes of a leader: curiosity, empathy and resilience, and how they can evolve your business.

Who is Alim Somani?

Alim is a business leader with a focus on digital transformation. Alim is the founder of Infusion, which later sold to Avanade. Alim’s a recipient of Canada's top 40 under 40 award. In the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic, Alim was recruited by Hatch Digital, a company that helps organizations digitally transform their businesses.

Follow Alim:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alimsomani/?originalSubdomain=ca

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Join us in this engaging episode of the Do Good to Lead Well podcast as we welcome Dr. Nick Holton and Dr. Adam Wright, co-founders of the Anti-Fragile Academy. Listen in as we explore the concept of anti-fragility, which goes beyond mental resilience, enabling individuals to thrive through chaos and volatility. Dr. Holton and Dr. Wright share their expert insights on human potential and the application of cutting-edge science to help individuals and organizations achieve peak performance and overall well-being. This conversation underscores the importance of combining positive psychology with the ability to navigate life's hardships, offering a holistic approach to human flourishing.

We break down anti-fragile behaviors into three key components: thriving, resilience, and consistent performance, and examine how these can be applied in both our personal and professional lives. Discover the practical framework of the biopsychosocial model, integrating biological, psychological, and social factors to create a holistic approach to performance and mental health. Additionally, we delve into the significance of motivation and mindset in fostering anti-fragility, highlighting the role of self-determination theory and the importance of mindfulness and meditation for behavior change and attention control.

Finally, we explore how process goals can improve skills, endurance, and mental strength. By embracing a philosophy of continuous improvement, we can reach our full potential and positively impact those around us. Don’t miss this thought-provoking episode filled with actionable insights for personal and professional growth.

What You’ll Learn:

• Understanding anti-fragility and its importance in today's volatile world.

• The biopsychosocial model.

• The role of motivation, mindset, and mindfulness in fostering anti-fragility.

• Actionable strategies rooted in self-determination theory, mindfulness, and meditation.

• The significance of a process mindset over outcome goals.

• The secrets to creating supportive, high-challenge environments

Podcast Timestamps:

(00:00) - What is Anti-Fragility?

(16:49) - The Biopsychosocial Model: A Holistic Approach to Performance and Mental Health

(28:57) - Understanding Motivations and Mindsets for Anti-Fragility

(41:18) - Enhancing Performance Through A Process Mindset

(46:59) - Building Alignment Through Values-Based Leadership

(55:16) - Embracing Our Potential

More of Nick and Adam:

Nick co-hosts Flourish FM, a podcast in collaboration with Harvard's Human Flourishing Program, where he explores research on how to live well. After a career in education, Nick co-founded The Antifragile Academy with Dr. Adam Wright, aiming to bring the science of human potential to young people, transforming their futures.

Adam is a high-performance and executive coach, consultant, and educator specializing in supporting elite performers in high-stakes, volatile environments. As Major League Mental Performance Consultant for the Washington Nationals, Adam draws on decades of practical experience and academic expertise, integrating philosophy, sport psychology, neuroscience, and mental health counseling to optimize performance and well-being.

Nick’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-holton-ph-d-8233a215/

Adam’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adamwrightphd/

Mentions:

How to make stress your friend | Kelly McGonigal | TED https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RcGyVTAoXEU

Key Topics Discussed:

Positive Leadership, Anti-Fragility, Resilience, Positive Psychology, Personal Growth, Professional Growth, Biopsychosocial Model, Motivation, Mindset, Peak Performance, Well-being, Human Potential, Values Alignment, Continuous Improvement, Psychological Flexibility, Emotional Intelligence, High Challenge, High Support, CEO Success

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

While we cannot get far without our physical health, it is often overlooked in conversations about leadership excellence, especially when it comes to hard-driving executives. In many circles, it is almost seen as a badge of honor to push ourselves to the brink. However, scientific and anecdotal evidence strongly questions that assumption. Is there a healthier and more effective way?

Join me for Part 2 of this engaging 4-part series as we welcome back Kevin Ford, CEO of Calian, to share his compelling journey and insights into the critical role of physical health in leadership. Kevin opens up about his own harrowing experience, shedding light on how neglecting his own personal well-being almost cost him his life. We discuss the often-overlooked importance of incorporating health metrics into leadership evaluations, promoting a culture where self-care is encouraged and valued as much as any other leadership trait.

Why aren't leaders asking the right questions about their health? Together with Kevin, we tackle the pressing need for leaders to dig deeper into their genetic history and make informed health decisions. By understanding and managing their physical and mental energy, leaders can better navigate the demands of their roles while fostering a more positive organizational culture. We dive into the significance of self-awareness and the bravery required to admit when one is not performing at their best, physically or mentally. This conversation is packed with actionable advice on how leaders can cultivate a thoughtful and intentional approach to their health and well-being so they can transform their organizations in the process.

What You’ll Learn:

• Self-Care as a Leadership Strategy.

• Proactive Health Management: Understanding Your Genetic History.

• How to Cultivate a Culture of Open Communication and Emotional Honesty. 

• Why You Need to Monitor Your Energy: A leader's energy and self-awareness significantly impact organizational culture.

• Adaptability as a Vital Skill for Leadership Success.

Podcast Timestamps:

(00:00) – Why is Physical Health So Often Overlooked When it Comes to Leadership Excellence?

(09:45) – What are the Right KPIs When It Comes to Our Physical and Mental Health?

(13:39) – Energy Management: How You’re Feeling Impacts How You’re Performing

(19:53) – Bringing Conversations About Mental Health into the Open

(24:13) – Your Company Culture Reflects Your Energy

More of Kevin Ford:

Kevin is the President and CEO of Calian Group, a solutions company with services in health, IT, systems engineering, and more. Leading the company since 2015, Kevin focuses on teamwork, integrity, and commitment. As you’ll hear in this series of episodes, he’s aware of how he works with others, affects them, and can improve himself. Kevin is also proud to shine a light on how we can improve our leadership by improving ourselves.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-ford-5426948 

Key Topics Discussed:

CEO Mindset, Chief Awareness Officer, Self-Awareness, Positive Leadership, Physical Health, Mental Health, Well-being, Self-care, Health Metrics, Performance Indicators, Stress, Demanding Roles, Proactive, Preventative Health, Energy Management, Empathy, Open Communication, Emotional Honesty, Human Connection, Company Culture, Adaptability, Hybrid Work Environments, Nurturing

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

It’s important to be able to assess any situation as a leader, but how do you mitigate risk? What are some exclusions to some of the time tested principles we all adhere by? In this episode, Scott Tessier answers these questions and more.

What You’ll Learn:

1. A framework for open communication between multiple stakeholders

2. What to prioritize in a time of crisis

3. Why you should make yourself visible as a leader

4. How to avoid working from home becoming living at work

5. Why is it important to put your oxygen mask on first?

6. When does the Golden Rule not apply?

7. What is the color coded check-in?

8. Time off can actually boost your productivity, but do you trust in those around you to do so

9. Prepare the next level of leaders in your company by creating opportunity for failure

Who is Scott?

Scott Tessier has served as CEO of the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Offshore Petroleum Board (C-NLOPB) since 2013. Before joining the C-NLOPB, he was an advisor in the petroleum industry on legislative and regulatory matters in Alberta. Prior to that, Scott served in senior positions with regulatory mandates during a public service career that spanned twelve years at Fisheries and Oceans Canada and three years in the Health and Northern Economic Development portfolios. Scott’s extensive career got started with the Canadian Council of Ministers of the Environment and the St. John’s Harbour Atlantic Coastal Action Program.

Follow Scott:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scott-tessier-5b50961/

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

In this episode, Alan Mulally, the former CEO of Ford and Boeing and Craig Dowden discuss the five-element of the working together management system and how it focuses on emotion, strength, mindset, the nature of leadership, teamwork and ways to bring authentic leadership qualities to life as a cohesive working unit. The discussion highlights the importance of creating an environment conducive to collaboration and open communication, how to bridge foundational leadership qualities like civility and humility and establishing psychological safety. 

The episode also addresses fundamental questions every leader should consider and strategies for making team members feel a sense of belonging. Throughout, the focus is on inclusive leadership and the impact it has on team development and growth.

How can you use these elements to build a cohesive team, align team values and behaviors, and explore the full potential of leadership qualities within your organization?

What You’ll Learn:

Ways to bring leadership qualities to life through a system of working together as a unit

The importance of creating a working environment that is conducive to working together

How to bridge together the two foundational leadership qualities, civility and humility

The 3 fundamental questions every leader should address

The compelling vision - Comprehensive Strategy and Relentless Implementation

How to make and give others a sense of belonging as the leader

The process of growing one’s leadership capabilities

The power of synergies that arise from self-awareness and awareness of others

The role of a leader’s mindset and its effect on practices and the management system

How inclusive leadership can influence the team’s self-development and growth 

Maximizing human potential and the art of separating tasks from individuals

The process of building good emotional resiliency 

Involving the team in shaping the growth strategy and 

Giving team members the choice to change, improve, participate and do better 

Setting the stage for the team to believe in the vision and strategy

More of Alan:

Alan Mulally is an American aerospace engineer and manufacturing executive. He served as the CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes and later as president and CEO of Ford Motor Company. He led the transformation of Ford Motor Company into a top automobile brand. Mulally is credited with turning around both Ford and Boeing during challenging times. He made significant contributions to Boeing projects and was known for his role in the design of the first all-digital flight deck in a commercial aircraft. Mulally was appointed to the Board of Directors of Google in 2014 and inducted into the International Air & Space Hall of Fame in 2015.

LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/alan-mulally-29017a130/⁠

⁠Do Good To Lead Well: the Science and Practice of Positive Leadership by Craig Dowden⁠

⁠A Time To Lead - Mastering Your Self…So You Can Master Your World by Craig Dowden⁠

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: ⁠https://craigdowden.com/⁠

LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/⁠

How can we create bold, transformative organizations unburdened by bureaucracy and its rule choked power structures? In this episode, Michele Zanini answers this question and more.

What You’ll Learn:

1. Why does corporate culture reflect a bureaucratic landscape and how do you navigate it to the top?

2. A company case study demonstrating the limiting notions of hierarchy within your organization.

3. How to distribute power and thought innovation to coordinate real change in your company.

4. The risk to brainstorming grandiose ideas in a vacuum vs experimenting with concepts at a small scale. Change happens incrementally.

Who is Michele Zanini?

Michele Zanini is the co-founder of Management Lab, a consulting firm that specializes in helping organizations develop new approaches to innovation, organizational agility and strategic renewal, all in the face of constant change and disruption. He co-authored the book, Humanocracy: Creating Organizations as Amazing as the People Inside Them, which uses data-driven arguments to showcase how your organization can excise bureaucracy and out-run change.

Mentions:

Humanocracy: Creating Organizations as Amazing as the People Inside Them: https://www.humanocracy.com/

Follow Michele:

Website: https://www.michelezanini.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelezanini/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/MicheleZanini?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Join us for an eye-opening conversation with Jerry Kaplan, a leading authority in artificial intelligence and a prolific entrepreneur, as we unpack the profound implications of generative A.I. Jerry, an adjunct lecturer at Stanford, dives into his motivations behind his latest book, "Generative Artificial Intelligence: What Everyone Needs to Know," stressing the necessity of understanding this fast-paced field. We dissect what generative A.I. is, the distinctions it holds from previous A.I. waves, and the vast potential it has in reshaping our interactions with technology and society at large.

Throughout our discussion, we explore the seismic shifts generative A.I. is bringing to the job market and the broader workforce. From the evolution of work since the 1800s to contemporary changes, we see how technological advancements have altered job roles—sometimes displacing old ones while creating new opportunities. Generative A.I. stands poised to revolutionize creative and analytical tasks, even in software development, while underscoring the enduring importance of human empathy and personal interaction in a rapidly changing job landscape.

We also delve into the rise of emotionally expressive A.I. and its societal impacts, from elder care to reducing political extremism. Jerry provides valuable insights into the concepts of A.I. hallucination and superintelligence, debunking myths and emphasizing the responsible use of A.I. technologies. Our conversation wraps up with a forward-looking perspective on the future of A.I. and society, highlighting the need to address wealth inequality and ensure the benefits of A.I. are widely distributed, fostering a more equitable and optimistic future.

What You’ll Learn:

• What is Generative A.I.

• How is Generative A.I. different from previous waves of A.I.?

• The seismic disruptions from A.I. in the job market.

• The rise of emotionally expressive AI and its impacts on society.

• The innovative potentials and the ethical challenges we face with Generative A.I.

• The critical importance of empathy in an A.I.-driven world.

Podcast Timestamps:

(00:00) – What is Generative Artificial Intelligence?

(04:56) - Impacts of Generative A.I.

(12:36) - Job Market Shifts Due to Automation

(26:28) - Rise of Emotional A.I. Companions

(41:00) – A.I. Hallucination and A.I. Superintelligence

(52:14) - The Future of A.I. and Society

More of Jerry:

Jerry Kaplan is a distinguished Artificial Intelligence expert, serial entrepreneur, technical innovator, educator, and bestselling author. He holds a PhD in Computer and Information Science from the University of Pennsylvania, specializing in AI, and a BA from the University of Chicago. Kaplan has founded numerous technology startups, two of which became public companies, and has been a key contributor to the development of groundbreaking technologies such as tablet computers, smartphones, online auctions, and social computer games. Currently, he is an Adjunct Lecturer at Stanford University, where he teaches about the social and economic impact of AI. Kaplan's literary contributions include four influential books, with his latest, "Generative Artificial Intelligence: What Everyone Needs to Know," offering a comprehensive exploration of AI's evolving landscape. His work has earned him recognition in major publications and accolades such as the Ernst & Young Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year award.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jerry-kaplan/

Key Topics Discussed:

Positive Leadership, Artificial Intelligence, Generative A.I., Automation, Technological Advancements, Workforce Disruption, Emotional A.I., Superintelligence, Wealth Inequality, Responsible Use of Technology, A.I. Hallucination, Future of A.I., Ethics for Artificial Intelligence, Natural Language Processing

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

This week's featured author interview is with the world's premier expert on women's leadership as cited by Forbes, Sally Helgeson. Sally's work has brought the conversation of inclusion to the business space. This conversation dives into the habits and behaviors that are most likely to get in the way of women progressing in their career, unpacking your unconscious bias, and behaviors leaders can implement to create a more inclusive environment. Sally Helgesen is an internationally best-selling author, speaker and leadership coach. She has been named by Thinker’s 50 as one of the world’s top 20 coaches and ranked number 6 among the world’s thought leaders by Global Gurus. Sally’s most recent book, How Women Rise, co-authored with legendary executive coach Marshall Goldsmith, examines the behaviors most likely to get in the way of successful women.

Mentions:

https://sallyhelgesen.com

Everyone knows empathy is a vital skill to master when it comes to leadership, but what tactics do established leaders use to balance humanity and expectation? What are the 3 H’s to grounding your leadership skills. In this episode, Dr. Danika Goosney answers these questions and more.

What You’ll Learn:

1. Using data to advocate for diversity, equity and inclusion in the STEM field.

2. The 3 grounding H’s of leadership: humanity, humility and humor.

3. Linking the connection between empathy and trust.

4. Conducting an energy audit to observe work trends and assess priorities.

5. Balancing transparency, oversharing, authenticity and professionalism.

6. Reframing situations from a different lens to paint the whole picture.

7. What actually makes for a good mentor.

8. Maximizing impact with data by telling a good story and knowing the audience.

9. 3 ways to maintain resilience as an individual and a leader.

Who is Danika?

Dr. Danika Goosney, appointed as Vice-President at NSERC in 2019, holds a first-class honors Bachelor of Science and a PhD from the University of British Columbia, where she earned the Governor General's Gold Medal. With a background in microbiology and immunology, she pursued postdoctoral training at the Scripps Research Institute before contributing to Vancouver-based biotech firms. Over nearly a decade at CIHR and later at the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council, she played pivotal roles in research, knowledge translation, and ethics. Dr. Goosney is nationally recognized for her positive leadership in equity, diversity, and inclusion in STEM, advocating for open science and science literacy, while also passionately mentoring those seeking careers in science policy and public service. She now serves as Director and Chief Executive Officer, Canadian Museum of Nature.

Follow Danika:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danika-goosney-ph-d-a361b42/

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

How can we trust and apply the information, statistics, and data we find online? Once we have data we can trust, how do we use it to improve? In this episode, Anil Arora answers these and more.

What You’ll Learn:

1. The biggest challenges and opportunities of our day and how we can face them.

2. Why data literacy is vital to existing in (and making sense of) today’s world.

3. How data can be used to improve ourselves and our organizations.

4. How AI can be applied responsibly.

Who is Anil?

Anil has worked with Statistics Canada for over 25 years, leading significant programs and transformations, and since 2016, he’s served as Canada’s Chief Statistician. He has also served in policy and regulatory roles in the government of Canada at Natural Resources Canada, as well as Health Canada. He has led substantial international initiatives working with the United Nations and the OECD. He serves on a number of boards and is very active in the community, supporting events and social causes. He received a Bachelor of Science from the University of Alberta and holds a Graduate Certificate in Public Sector Management and Governments from the University of Ottawa.

Follow Anil Arora:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anil-arora-146278160/ 

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

What if leaders from opposite sides of the political aisle could come together to chart a path for a better economic future? In this illuminating episode, we sit down with the Honorable Anne McClellan and the Honorable Lisa Raitt, co-chairs of the Coalition for a Better Future, to explore their inspiring bipartisan efforts aimed at rejuvenating Canada's economy. You'll hear about the coalition's origins, its mission rooted in the global call to "build back better," and how these two formidable leaders use their diverse backgrounds to push for sustainable and inclusive economic growth.

We then pivot to discuss the vital role of evidence-based decision-making and the power of cross-partisan collaboration. Anne and Lisa open up about their journey from political adversaries to partners in progress, offering insights into the benefits of starting from a common factual base to reduce polarization. They share candid personal anecdotes and practical advice on lowering emotional temperatures during contentious conversations, making this a must-listen for anyone interested in effective, empathetic leadership focused on making real progress rather than focusing on refusing to compromise.

Finally, the conversation turns to the voices that often go unheard in discussions about economic growth: those from rural and small-town Canada. Anne and Lisa share heartfelt stories that highlight the need for inclusive leadership and the importance of listening to diverse perspectives. From dairy farmers to oil and gas executives, the coalition aims to ensure that economic growth is a shared benefit for everyone. This episode is a compelling reminder that economic progress isn’t just about numbers; it’s about people, unity, and a collective vision for a better future. Tune in to be inspired by their vision and learn how you can contribute to a more prosperous Canada.

What You’ll Learn:

• The formation and mission of the Coalition for a Better Future.

• The importance of evidence-based decision-making and cross-partisan collaboration.

• The critical role of empathy in today's hyper-polarized environment.

• Practical advice on lowering emotional temperatures in discussions and promoting constructive dialogue.

• The critical need to include voices from all walks of life, especially those from rural and small-town communities, in the conversation about economic growth.

Podcast Timestamps:

(00:00) - The Origin Story of the Coalition for a Better Future

(14:31) - Working Together for Constructive Dialogue

(31:38) – What Does Economic Growth Mean to You? Creating A Conversation for All Canadians

(37:07) – The Role of Empathy and Authentic Leadership

(43:47) - Navigating Disagreements With Humility

(52:38) - Uniting Canada for Economic Growth

More of Anne and Lisa:

The Honourable Lisa Raitt is vice-chair of global investment banking at CIBC and formerly the Deputy Leader of the Official Opposition. Having served in the House of Commons for eleven years, she held three portfolios as a Conservative cabinet minister: Natural Resources, Labour and Transport. The Honourable Anne McLellan is a former senior advisor at Bennett Jones in Edmonton and former Deputy Prime Minister. Having served as a Liberal MP from 1993 -2006, she held multiple ministerial portfolios, including Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness, Justice, and Natural Resources.  

Coalition for a Better Future: https://www.canadacoalition.ca/

Key Topics Discussed:

Positive Leadership, Coalition for a Better Future, Economic Growth for All, Canada, Sustainable Economic Growth, Inclusive Conversations, Evidence-based, Cross-partisan, Collaboration, Empathy, Bridging Divides, Authentic Leadership, Overcoming Polarization, Deliberative Democracy, Community Engagement, Authenticity, Transparency, Promoting Unity, Community Involvement, Influencing Policy

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Not surprisingly, when you talk to most leaders, there is a profound reluctance to show vulnerability. Leaders are afraid vulnerability will be perceived as weakness or undermine their confidence. So, what is the role of vulnerability in strong leadership? In this episode, Craig answers this question and more.

What You’ll Learn:

1. Vulnerability is courage, not weakness

2. The Beautiful Mess Effect

3. What is construal level theory and how does it apply to leadership?

4. Tips for demonstrating vulnerability including getting comfortable saying I don’t know, admitting mistakes openly and seeking feedback and advice from others

5. Vulnerability encourages openness, fostering an environment of accountability

Mentions:

Daring Greatly: How the Courage to Be Vulnerable Transforms the Way We Live, Love, Parent, and Lead: https://www.amazon.com/Daring-Greatly-Courage-Vulnerable-Transforms/dp/1592408419

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

In this powerful and inspiring episode of the Do Good to Lead Well podcast, we sit down with Don Romano, CEO of Hyundai Canada, to unpack his revolutionary approach to leadership that reshaped the entire company's culture. Don shares his compelling journey from battling challenging customer and dealer relations to fostering a thriving environment where trust, inclusivity, and open dialogue are the cornerstones of success.

Through captivating stories and key experiences, Don illustrates the power of listening and cultural understanding, drawing from his time in the Middle East to his current initiatives at Hyundai Canada. Learn about "Discussions with Don," an initiative that promotes honest and fear-free communication, and see how this approach has driven both productivity and creativity within the organization. Don's perspective on the delicate balance between being receptive to feedback and managing expectations offers invaluable insights for leaders at all levels.

Lastly, we explore the profound impact of authentic leadership and values alignment. Hear firsthand how Don integrates core values like honesty, integrity, and resilience into the very DNA of Hyundai Canada, and how these principles have spurred business growth and innovation. Don's commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) is not just a corporate mantra but a lived reality that provides a competitive edge and a more engaging workplace. This episode is filled with valuable wisdom for anyone seeking to cultivate a positive, inclusive and high-performing organization.

What You’ll Learn:

• Rebuilding trust through active listening.

• The significance of fostering a psychologically safe environment for driving innovation and performance.

• How authenticity and self-awareness shape effective management.

• Strategies for integrating diversity, equity and inclusion into business practices.

• How inclusivity can transform company culture.

• The importance of aligning organizational values with employee development.

• The balance between being receptive to feedback and managing expectations.

Podcast Timestamps:

(00:00) Rebuilding Trust Through A Listen-First Philosophy

(12:44) Asking Questions: A Key Change Management Skill

(20:03) The Power of Authentic Leadership

(28:00) Diversity, Equity and Inclusion: Driving Forces for Success

(32:57) Core Values Alignment: A Leadership Superpower

(44:07) Leading with Empathy

More of Don:

Don Romano is the President and CEO of Hyundai Canada, a position he has held since January 2014. Under his leadership, Hyundai Canada has risen to become one of the nation's leading automotive brands and the largest mainstream electric vehicle distributor. Romano is recognized for championing initiatives that promote a diverse and inclusive corporate culture, resulting in Hyundai Canada being named a great place to work for five consecutive years and one of the best workplaces for women. The company has also been honored as a five-star Diversity and Inclusion Employer by Human Resources Director. In 2021, Automotive News named Romano a notable champion of diversity. Prior to joining Hyundai, Romano held senior positions at Toyota, Nissan North America, and Mazda Motor Company.

Mentions:

Radical Candor: Be a Kickass Boss Without Losing Your Humanity by Kim Scott

Key Topics Discussed:

Positive Leadership, Building Trust, Open Communication, Organizational Culture, Customer Experience, Active Listening, Receiving Feedback, Authentic Leadership, Values Alignment, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Employee Development, Creativity, Positive Work Environment, Psychological Safety, Self-Awareness, Empathy, Adaptability, Career Development, Learning from Mistakes, Fostering Innovation, High-Performance Leaders, Inclusive Organization, CEO Success.

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Where is the future of leadership heading?

What You’ll Learn:

1. How can entrepreneurial thinking help develop better leadership qualities? 

2. How does one operationalize the concepts of diversity, equity and inclusion in leadership?

3. What timeless lessons can we learn from Peter Drucker's work on leadership

Who is Bruce Rosenstein?

When Bruce Rosenstein, Managing Editor of the prestigious Leader to Leader magazine within the Frances Hesselbein Leadership Forum, works with thought leaders, CEOs, and professors to publish articles on leadership, he encounters the unique challenge of distilling complex concepts into a globally understandable format while staying true to their original intent. Bruce is the author of Create Your Future the Peter Drucker Way (McGraw-Hill and Brilliance Audio, 2013) and Living in More Than One World: How Peter Drucker's Wisdom Can Inspire and Transform Your Life (Berrett-Koehler, 2009).

Mentions:

Living in More Than One World: https://brucerosenstein.com/living_in_more_than_one_world/

Create Your Future the Peter Drucker Way: https://brucerosenstein.com/create_your_future/

Follow Bruce:

Website: https://brucerosenstein.com/editor/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bruce-rosenstein/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/brucerosenstein?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Communication is an invaluable skill to master as an inspiring leader. How do you better equip yourself to learn and grow this skillset? In this episode, Brian Mills answers this question and more.

What You’ll Learn:

1. How onboarding is a two way street

2. Using data and market intelligence to communicate process change

3. How to structure an open forum conversation

4. Using a disc profile to learn to communicate

5. How to scenario plan in the current environment

6. Tell it all, tell it early communication style

7. What it takes to build resiliency in yourself and your organization

8. What is your say, do ratio?

9. Using the 360 method to identify your skill gaps

Who is Brian?

Brian Mills is the president of US Water Filters. Prior to joining USWF, he was the Chief Commercial Officer with Glen Dimplex Americas, where he led the commercial strategy on a turnaround objective in the North American market, resulting in 200% growth. Prior to Glen Duplex, Brian engineered the turnaround of the electrical enclosure division of Pentair for the Canadian market. He also held the Vice President of Business Development role for Can Water Group, the divestiture from Culligan International Company.

Follow Brian:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianjmills/

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

In order for us to be effective leaders on the outside, we must be self-aware within. In a recent study of over half a million people, Travis Bradberry narrowed success down to one factor, self-awareness. Awareness is a vital skill to master in which your values, beliefs and behaviors have to be in alignment. Tasha Eurich illustrates the four ways all people embody this trait by examining their internal vs external loci of awareness. She breaks self-awareness down into four quadrants: seekers, introspectors, pleasers, and those who are aware. In this episode, Craig discerns how to understand which quadrant you fall underneath, as well as the key component to moving towards awareness: asking for feedback, one of the most inexpensive activities we can take on as leaders. 

What You’ll Learn:

1. The key trait in mastering your external presence as a leader

2. The definition of self-awareness

3. Internal vs external awareness

4. The four types of awareness

5. The steps you need to take to move towards awareness

Mentions:

Self-Awareness: https://www.amazon.com/Self-Awareness-Hidden-Driver-Success-Satisfaction/dp/0399535314

Insight: https://www.amazon.com/Insight-Surprising-Others-Ourselves-Answers/dp/0525573941

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Anne Whelan is principal shareholder and CEO of Seafair Capital, a growth-focused company with investments in community, behavioral health services, technology, e-learning and corporate services. Anne also serves as a corporate director of CSA Group and Nova Leap Health. She was appointed to the Bank of Canada’s Board of Directors in June 2018. Anne has been nationally and regionally recognized for her business and community contributions. She was named one of Canada’s 100 Most Powerful women in 2016 and 2021. In 2019, she was awarded the Red Cross Humanitarian of the Year Award. In 2017. She was named Startup Canada’s Entrepreneur of the Year for an outstanding contribution to Canadian entrepreneurship. Anne was also named Atlantic Business Magazine’s CEO of the Year in 2014 and was inducted into Atlantic Business Magazine’s Top 50 CEO Hall of Fame in 2015. In this episode, Craig and Anne have a fascinating conversation about breaking biases, finding your authentic self and establishing core values.

The crackle of a starting pistol and the first determined steps into a marathon might seem worlds apart from executive boardrooms, but my guest, Allison Simpson, bridges that gap with a vigor that's as relentless as her running stride. Across 63 marathons and the vast expanse of the Sahara, Allison has mastered the art of endurance, a skill she translates to her role as President and CEO of the Canadian Marketing Association. Our conversation reveals how the tenacity required for long-distance running mirrors the resilience needed for effective leadership. She shares the accidental beginnings of her marathon journey and how those miles under her feet have shaped her professional approach, offering insights that resonate with anyone looking to push their potential both personally and professionally.

Dive into the heart of inclusive leadership where empathy, active listening, and embracing diversity aren't just ideals—they're essential strategies for innovation and success. Celebrating inclusivity isn't just about fairness; it's smart business, with diverse teams often surpassing financial expectations.

Finally, for those emerging leaders listening in, we chart a course through the unpredictable waters of career progression, highlighting the value of transparent communication and the courage to step into roles that might feel just beyond your reach. Allison emphasizes that sometimes the most rewarding paths are the ones least expected. Join us for a candid exploration of the skills and attitudes that constitute the bedrock of successful leadership and carry away strategic advice that will empower anyone looking to make their mark.

What You’ll Learn:

• The symbiosis of personal challenges and professional growth.

• How diversity and empathy act as navigational beacons in today's corporate landscape.

• The secret sauce to fostering a culture of innovation within your team.

• Personal strategies to bolster resilience and maintain a buoyant spirit in the face of adversity.

• Practical advice for emerging leaders on making strides in their career, even when the path seems daunting.

Podcast Timestamps:

(00:00) How Leadership Is Like A Marathon

(10:15) Questioning, Reframing, and Positive Feedback

(18:29) Embracing Fresh Perspectives for Innovation

(28:34) Leveraging the Power of Diversity

(38:22) Active Listening and Building Resilience

(47:33) Charting Your Career Path: The Power of Flexibility

Key Topics Discussed:

Positive Leadership, Endurance, Resilience, Diversity, Empathy, Clear Communication, Career Progression, Inclusivity, Innovation, Personal Growth, Professional Growth, Curiosity, Active Listening, Problem-Solving, Decision-Making, Transparency, Values, Creativity, Productivity, Self-Discovery, Risk-Taking, CEO Success

More of Alison:

Alison is the president and CEO of the Canadian Marketing Association (CMA). Throughout her career, she's held executive marketing roles and served as president of several marketing agencies. Having worked for and with top tier brands, including Holt Renfrew, Rogers Communications, and TMX Group, Alison is a high achiever with plenty of experiences and insights. Prior to joining the CMA, Allison was Chief Marketing Officer and Head of Consumer Business at Key, an innovative, Technology company that has developed the world's first all digital on demand home ownership platform to make home ownership a reality for many. She's a director on several boards, both not for profit and publicly traded. She also serves on the advisory board for the Master of Management Analytics and Artificial Intelligence program at the Smith School of Business. And, of course, she’s highly successful in her time away from work, having run 63 marathons!

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alisonksimpson/ 

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

How can you energize your team, drive accountability, and foster a positive work environment as a remote leader? How can a leader harness the power of transparency to ignite a sense of ownership and empowerment within their team? In this episode, Shaun Kindopp answers these questions and more.

What You’ll Learn:

1. When to practice the trial by fire method

2. Encouraging the right conflict within your team dynamic

3. Holding your team accountable from afar

4. The 4-day work week

5. Creating transparency in your organization

6. Allowing your team to take ownership of the results

7. The role of humble leadership

8. A questions first approach

9. Creating buy-in with your team for your vision

10. Maximizing your level of resilience

11. Being the leader you’d want to work for

Who is Shaun?

Shaun Kindopp is the CEO of the Canadian Western Agribition, which is the largest livestock show in Canada. This role has Shaun leading an international hub of agricultural excellence, which reaches over 1,200 international guests from over 63 countries. In this position, Shaun focuses on his passion for creating inclusive and collaborative cultures and streamlining processes. Before taking over his current role, Shaun has had a number of executive roles, including Director of Corporate Partnerships and Sales for the Regina Exhibition Association Limited, as well as Senior Account Executive of Corporate Partnerships for the Regina Pats Hockey Club Limited. These positions have instilled Shaun with the knowledge and experience of being a positive leader and have taught him many lessons that he will share with us today.

Follow Shaun:

LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/shaun-kindopp-2304b61ab?challengeId=AQE6t0bz3UHniwAAAYqQsZERY_1T_-2KkEgzkedveTR7hLhIMn3FIevBo270JJb2xImozLqZ7zuCR_jBSbOoH3tOpr6PrT9iZg&submissionId=2242ae5f-5996-8417-d4f0-cdf7cf534430&challengeSource=AgFk_Vo92DxlcQAAAYqQseKgjsZuzcN5cs6g01XUwfXZZ9WSX5wNhElx3Odh0ik&challegeType=AgGq2wsc3aMnEAAAAYqQseKj9nOnu5t4FTUH5Xj1mzRPbb3Npf2In6E&memberId=AgGyLRGZ8v3rhwAAAYqQseKmBR-ZekBUid29ZobrS-OhBtA&recognizeDevice=AgFoaaptr9MMWQAAAYqQseKoNhm1CdfaiZRWT9kC9luwM2cWoVe1 

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

John Sicard is the president and CEO of Kinaxis, a supply chain management software that helps with sales and operations planning. Though he has been working for the company for almost two decades, John started as CEO in 2016 and has been a vital force in the revitalization of their supply chain management solutions and company architecture. He is a strong advocate for inclusivity and diversity in the workplace with a special interest in making things accessible for people on the autism spectrum. On the side, John has a passion for creating and producing music. Craig speaks with John about his career path as well as how he is staying motivated during COVID. They speak about the tough work environment that COVID has presented, and the growing importance of creating a positive and joyful work environment. They discuss the important role of a CEO in properly managing tough situations, and techniques of leadership that prioritize the mental health and wellbeing of all of your employees.

What You Will Learn:

1. How to stay physically motivated when staying fit

2. Tips for managing tough situations

3. Techniques to create a positive culture

4. Advice for growing a company

5. Necessity of pursuit of joy

6. The team you lead vs the team you’re on

7. Value of being responsibility for wellbeing

8. Importance of mental health awareness

9. Evolution of supply chain management

This month, I reflect on a unique and transformative experience that took me out of my comfort zone: a salmon fishing retreat on a remote river in my home province of Newfoundland and Labrador. Joined by five incredible individuals— Andrew, Enrique, Geoff, Mark, and Pete —we embraced the opportunity to disconnect from our usual routines and engage deeply with one another. Despite the low water levels limiting our fishing time, we made the most of our days by engaging in profound conversations that touched on everything from politics and religion to social issues like homelessness. It was an eye-opening experience that highlighted the power of authentic, values-driven dialogue among highly accomplished individuals.

Listen in as I share the lessons and insights gleaned from this retreat, emphasizing the importance of open and respectful communication even on potentially contentious topics. These five days were a testament to the enriching power of genuine human connections. This episode is not just about the retreat but also about how such experiences can foster personal growth, build strong relationships, and reinforce the core values that drive effective leadership.

What You’ll Learn:

• The immense value of authentic human connection.

• The importance of disconnecting to reconnect with our core values.

• How to have constructive conflict and mutual respect, even on contentious topics.

• Balancing passion with humility: The key ingredients to an engaging conversation and personal growth.

• The power of community and diverse perspectives.

Podcast Timestamps:

(00:00) – Stepping Out of My Comfort Zone

(03:31) - Deep Conversations Among Diverse Individuals

(10:35) – Constructive Disagreement and Mutual Respect

(17:14) - Gratitude for Community and Connection

Key Topics Discussed:

Positive Leadership, Personal Retreat, Newfoundland and Labrador, Transformative Experience, Profound Deep Conversations, Open Dialogue, Respectful Dialogue, Authentic Human Connection, Personal Growth, Effective Leadership, Self-care, Core Values, Diverse Backgrounds, Inspiration, Recharge, Genuine Conversation, CEO Success

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

On this episode of Do Good to Lead Well, I speak with Jim Estill, the innovative CEO of Danby Appliances, who started his entrepreneurial journey from the trunk of his car, driven by a personal need and a passion for technology. Jim’s story is not just about building a business; it's about the transformative power of pursuing what truly excites you. We unravel Jim's insights into leadership, where authenticity and growth are paramount, and explore how his commitmentto philanthropy—like sponsoring Syrian refugee families—reflects a deep-seated family ethos of giving back to the community.

Authenticity and connection emerge as central themes as we navigate the art of leadership in challenging times. Jim shares how gratitude can galvanize a team, enhancing happiness and performance by aligning roles with individual skills and passions. This episode also underlines the importance of personal development, encouraging listeners to learn from those whose success we wish to emulate.Rather than feeling frustrated by where we are, use these role models for motivational fuel towards a positive future.

Exploring leadership in the modern era, we highlight the delicate balance between empathy and tough business decisions. Core values emerge as guiding principles for organizational identity, shaping hiring and firing decisions in a manner that is both genuine and actionable. As we discuss the evolving role of technology and AI in business, humility and open-mindedness become the cornerstones of effectiveleadership. Join us as we close with revisiting the transformative power of gratitude, leaving you inspired to nurture relationships and embrace the positivity around you.

What You’ll Learn

- How Jim Estill transitioned from selling computers out of a car trunk to leading a major company.

- Key insights into effective entrepreneurial leadership.

- The transformative power and importance of gratitude in business and leadership.

- Strategies for fostering a culture of empathy and authenticity.

- The significance of maintaining unwavering core values in business.

- Techniques for navigating the fast-paced world of modern business successfully.

Podcast Timestamps

(00:00) – The Power of Doing Good

(12:11) – Effective Leadership Through Authenticity and Growth

(23:03) – Embrace Core Values

(35:22) – How to Build Success Habits

(47:01) – Positive Leadership in the Age of Technology

(56:20) – Leading with Gratitude and Impact

KEYWORDS

Positive Leadership, Entrepreneurship, Authenticity, Growth, Philanthropy, Community-Focused, A.I., Empathy, Tough conversations, Leading with Gratitude, Managing Performance Reviews, Building Success Habits, The Power of Micro Habits, Humility, Open-mindedness, Personal Development, Core Values, Giving Back, CEO Success

Michael Garrity is a 15-year veteran of the financial technology industry and the CEO of Financeit, a platform that enables small businesses to offer consumer-financing anytime. It is becoming one of the fastest growing sales finance platforms in North America. As a Goldman Sachs backed leader in the POS industry, Michael is devoted to driving growth in business-innovating services. Craig and Michael speak about Michael’s path in the industry, how to develop a strong work culture and how to create a supportive and mental health positive community within a post-COVID office.

What You Will Learn:

1. Michael’s path to founding Financeit

2. How Financeit was acquired

3. Tips for working within a culture of transparency

4. Variety of beliefs in cameras on/off in work meetings

5. Benefit of prioritizing people’s health and safety

6. How to handle the resignation wave

7. Impact of government money and social support in resignations

8. Tips for thoughtful leadership

How can Canada crack the productivity code to secure a prosperous future? Join us for an enlightening conversation with Pedro Antunes, the Chief Economist for the Conference Board of Canada, as he unpacks the pivotal role productivity plays in shaping our nation's economic landscape. He scrutinizes why GDP per hour worked is a crucial metric for income generation and long-term growth, and why enhancing private sector productivity is essential for maintaining robust public services like healthcare and education.

Pedro takes us on a journey through the complexities of the productivity equation. Using concrete examples, he illustrates how higher education and skill levels can lead to substantial income growth. We also uncover the challenges Canada faces with insufficient private investment, exploring how even minor differences in productivity growth rates can have significant long-term economic impacts. Our discussion emphasizes the importance of strategic investments and competitive tax reforms to enhance productivity and fuel economic growth.

In our final segment, we tackle the productivity hurdles that emerged post-2015, including the impacts of oil price collapses, the COVID-19 pandemic, and U.S. tax cuts. We explore the post-pandemic challenges in sectors like utilities, transportation, and construction, and delve into the burgeoning knowledge economy. Pedro offers a forward-looking perspective on revitalizing public transit, addressing labor constraints in construction, and crafting immigration policies to attract the skilled trades necessary for housing development. Tune in to gain a comprehensive understanding of Canada's productivity landscape and the critical steps needed to navigate these multi-faceted issues.

What You’ll Learn:

• The significance of productivity for Canada's long-term prosperity.

• Key drivers of economic productivity and income growth.

• The economic challenges and investment dynamics post-2015.

• Post-pandemic productivity challenges and opportunities.

• The evolving landscape of Canada's knowledge economy.

Podcast Timestamps:

(00:00) – An Introduction to Productivity

(10:52) - Productivity Growth and Investment

(17:15) - Investment Challenges and Solutions

(32:56) - Canada's Post-Pandemic Productivity Challenges

(37:32) – The Role of the Knowledge Economy in Productivity

(47:12) – Through the Looking Glass: The Future of Productivity

More of Pedro:

Pedro Antunes is the Chief Economist for the Conference Board of Canada, where he leads a team responsible for producing economic forecast products and reports on key indicators impacting Canada. Joining the Conference Board in 1991 after working with the Canadian Forecasting Group at the Bank of Canada, Antunes has been a key figure in researching issues such as demographic change, public health care sustainability, and long-term economic growth. He regularly provides expert testimony before parliamentary committees and engages with Canadian leaders, the public, and media on economic issues important to the nation. Recently, he has focused on a report titled Cracking the Productivity Code, which addresses productivity challenges in Canada.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pedro-a-22265a2/ 

Mentions:

Cracking the Productivity Code: Charting a New Path to Prosperity

Key Topics Discussed:

Positive Leadership, Productivity, Canadian Economy, Economic Growth, GDP, Healthcare, Education, Labor, Capital Investments, Income Growth, Tax Reforms, Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises, Competitiveness, Knowledge Economy, Interprovincial Trade Barriers, AI, Immigration, Skilled Labor, Canada-US Relations, CEO Success

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Named Ottawa’s CEO of the year in 2017, Kevin Ford is the CEO of the Cailan Group, which offers business management services within Advanced Technologies, Health, Learning and IT & Cyber Solutions. They have a long-standing history of financial stability largely due to Kevin’s amazing leadership throughout over 65 consecutive profitable quarters. He has led the company through several acquisition streaks, as well as helped shape Cailan to be the amazingly successful business that it is today. Craig speaks with Kevin about the work that he does for the Cailan Group and how he has shaped the company’s corporate culture and brought them such organic growth. They discuss the practice that he lives by and the radiating impact that cultural integrity has on employees. They speak about the how to push for change gracefully, while focusing on the positive and the value of humor in the everyday workday. Kevin goes into depth into his impactful ideology into how to make the workplace as energetically positive as possible.

What You'll Learn:

1. Kevin’s path to the Cailan Group

2. How to approach cultural integrity

3. Power of values

4. Techniques for pushing for change

5. Tips for finding the positive

6. Power of humor

7. Struggles of non-virtual settings

8. Spirit of energy sharing

What if your ability to lead effectively hinged on a deep understanding of yourself? In this final part of our special 4-part series, I dig deeper into this critical question with CEO of the Year award winner, Kevin Ford of Calian Group.

Kevin shares insightful personal anecdotes about how self-awareness has shaped his leadership journey and impacted his organization. We discuss the modern workforce's demand for higher standards in interpersonal interactions and the necessity for leaders to be mindful of their mindset, emotions, and behaviors.

Personal and professional growth cannot happen in a feedback vacuum. On the contrary, feedback is the fuel that drives the engine of maximizing our potential. Kevin opens up about the humbling yet enlightening experiences of receiving candid feedback from trusted supervisors and colleagues. We highlight the value of formal feedback processes like 360 reviews and the role of supportive networks in nurturing self-awareness.

As we round off the discussion, we explore the transformative potential of AI, including how tools like ChatGPT could revolutionize corporate behavior and decision-making processes. Kevin and I stress the importance of continuous learning and adapting to new technologies as vital elements of effective modern leadership. Join us as we conclude this thought-provoking series about the importance of becoming a Chief Awareness Officer and the secrets to getting there.

What You’ll Learn:

• Effective Leadership Begins and Ends with Understanding and Managing Our Mindset, Emotions, and Behaviors.

• Proactively Seeking Feedback is a Game-Changer for Executive Development.

• Beware of the Power of Emotional Contagion.

• Fostering A Culture of Feedback.

• The Promise of A.I. for Leadership and Organizational Effectiveness.

• Where Do We Go From Here? The Future of the Chief Awareness Officer.

Podcast Timestamps:

(00:00) - The Power of Self-Leadership

(10:03) - The Importance of Self-Awareness

(15:11) - The Ripple Effects of Self-Awareness

(27:50) – Feedback: The Fuel That Drives the Engine of Personal and Professional Growth

(32:19) - Creating a Culture of Awareness

(37:41) – The Future of A.I. in Organizations and Leadership

(47:48) – A Final Word on this Special Series

More of Kevin Ford:

Kevin is the President and CEO of Calian Group, a solutions company with services in health, IT, systems engineering, and more. Leading the company since 2015, Kevin focuses on teamwork, integrity, and commitment. As you’ll hear in this series of episodes, he’s aware of how he works with others, affects them, and can improve himself. Kevin is also proud to shine a light on how we can improve our leadership by improving ourselves.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-ford-5426948 

Key Topics Discussed:

CEO Mindset, Chief Awareness Officer, Self-Awareness, Positive Leadership, Receiving Feedback, Emotional Contagion, Feedback Culture, Effective Decision-Making, Organizational Culture, Continuous Learning, Mindset, Emotions, Behaviors, Personal Growth, Professional Growth, 360 Reviews, Mentors, Social Network, Authenticity, Team Dynamics, Curiosity, Information Channels

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Unlock the secrets to effective leadership with insights from Adam Bryant, author of "The Leap to Leader" and "The CEO Test." Gain invaluable wisdom on making the critical internal mindset shift that sets great leaders apart. Discover how to prepare mentally for leadership roles and master the art of navigating complex conversations without a fixed playbook. With over 650 CEO interviews under his belt, Adam brings rich, practical strategies to elevate your leadership journey.

In this episode, we dive deep into the realm of self-awareness and the fundamental motivations behind effective leadership. Adam articulates that true leadership is driven by a desire to serve the organization and its people, rather than solely pursuing power or wealth. We also examine the pressures that come with higher leadership positions and the necessity of understanding your 'why' to navigate these challenges effectively.

Our discussion further explores the art of delegation and its pivotal role in leadership, particularly during turbulent times. Adam shares insights on balancing micromanagement with delegation to foster team growth and development. We address the critical importance of relationship-building, both with peers and within a matrix organization, and the unparalleled significance of listening. By the end of our conversation, you'll walk away with practical strategies and heartfelt advice to elevate your leadership journey, ensuring you lead with positivity and lasting impact.

What You’ll Learn:

• Understand the critical internal mindset shift that sets great leaders apart.

• Discover why true leadership is driven by the desire to serve others rather than serve yourself.

• Learn how to balance micromanagement with empowering your team, especially in turbulent times.

• Gain insights on handling career stagnation and making informed, balanced career decisions.

• Learn the importance of assertiveness, clear communication, and building peer relationships for career advancement.

• Discover how improving your listening skills can exponentially enhance your leadership effectiveness.

Podcast Timestamps:

(00:00) – Lessons Learned From Over 650 CEO Interviews

(12:20) – The Crucial Role of Self-Awareness in Maximizing Our Leadership Impact

(25:17) - The Importance of Delegation

(28:45) - Empowering Leadership Through Delegation and Coaching

(34:02) - Navigating Career Challenges with Insight

(46:27) – Why You Need to Build Better Relationships with Your Peers?

(49:36) - The Power of Listening

Key Topics Discussed:

Positive Leadership, Leadership Excellence, Self-Awareness, Delegation, Coaching, Building Relationships, Effective Communication, Active Listening, Talent Development, Career Management, Career Mobility, Assertiveness, Job Interviews, Matrix Organization, Gratitude, Continuous Learning, Joy of Leading, CEO Success

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

This week, Craig sits down with Jim Detert to explore the topic of courage. Jim is a professor at the Darden Graduate School of Business and the Batten School of Leadership and Public Policy at the University of Virginia. Jim's research focuses on workplace courage, improvement-oriented voice (why people speak up or stay silent at work) and ethical decision-making and behavior. He believes systemic change is impossible without individual change from top to bottom in organizations. That’s why he focuses on helping people honestly examine themselves, what drives them and holds them back and what skills they must develop and personal commitments they must make if things are going to be different. When research-based theories are applied through innovative experiential learning, people build confidence in their ability to say and do the right things despite risk. Choosing Courage represents nearly two decades of learning how to help people on this journey. Tune in to find out how to be mindful with the language you use, be an effective leader and choose courage.

Unlock the secrets to mastering our fear and transform it from a stumbling block into a stepping stone. Join me, Craig Dowden, as we journey through the complex world of fear on the Do Good to Lead Well podcast. Drawing from Franklin D. Roosevelt's timeless insight that "the only thing we have to fear is fear itself," we explore how this powerful emotion can skew our perspectives and narrow our focus, often without merit. Discover startling research revealing how often our fears actually come to pass and that more often than not, things are even better than we could have imagined.

Armed with the empowering acronym for F.E.A.R., listeners are invited to rethink their perspective on fear, armed with practical strategies to break free from its paralyzing hold. Whether fear is a familiar companion or a sneaky adversary in your life, this episode equips you with the tools to manage it effectively and envision a future less hindered by unfounded worries. Tune in to empower yourself with a fresh understanding of fear and start conquering it today.

What You’ll Learn:

• Understand how fear skews perspectives and narrows focus.

• Learn about fascinating research that challenges our perception of fear.

• Learn to identify and manage fear using evidence-based techniques.

• Explore insights into how fear compromises our emotional power.

Podcast Timestamps:

(00:00) The Only Thing We Have to Fear is Fear Itself

(06:32) Managing Fear with an Evidence-Based Approach

(12:04) Learning from Fear and Anxiety Patterns (125 Seconds)

Key Topics Discussed:

Positive Leadership, Managing Fear, Resilient Leadership, Building Resilience, Improved Decision-Making, Positive Interpersonal Dynamics, Empowering Ourselves, Navigating Uncertainty, Building Confidence, The Power of Mindset, Gaining Perspective, Increasing Self-Awareness, Mastering Our Emotions, CEO Success

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Is people development truly the key to business success and societal impact? Join us as we welcome Catherine Allen, co-founder and Chief Impact Officer of AO People Partners, who passionately argues that it is. Catherine sheds light on the transformative power of intentional people development while advocating for a paradigm shift where developing interpersonal skills, such as emotional intelligence, becomes a strategic priority, especially during challenging times.

We break down the essential soft skills into core mind skills and people skills. Catherine shares her insights on cognitive-based abilities like executive function, adaptability, and creativity, as well as emotional intelligence-derived skills such as empathy and active listening. Emphasizing the gap between knowledge and practice, Catherine underscores the significance of daily practice and supportive environments for skill development. Learn how these skills are best cultivated through consistent interactions and behaviors within organizations.

Our discussion culminates in the creation of a growth-minded, development-centric culture. Catherine illustrates the vital role leaders play in modeling continuous learning and authenticity. She shares real-life examples, including a software company leader who turned project failure into a profound learning opportunity. Discover how fostering a growth mindset, embedding learning rituals, and normalizing a shared language around development can elevate both individual performance and organizational success. Dive into the practical steps leaders can take to embed development into the core of business strategy, ultimately contributing to a thriving workplace and society.

What You’ll Learn:

• The importance of rethinking why and how organizations develop their employees.

• Distinguishing between core mind skills and people skills.

• The gap between knowing and doing.

• How to create supportive environments to integrate these skills into everyday interactions.

• Compelling real-life examples of putting these skills into practice. 

• Practical steps to foster a culture of development and continuous learning.

Podcast Timestamps:

(00:00) - Reimagining People Development in Business

(12:15) - Developing Core Soft Skills in Business

(19:22) - Fostering a Growth Mindset in Organizations

(26:46) – A Model for Leadership Development

(42:59) - Creating a Development-Centric Culture

More of Catherine:

Catherine Allen is the co-founder and Chief Impact Officer of AO People Partners, a leadership development and culture transformation firm dedicated to inspiring and supporting the conscious practice of people development and culture. She specializes in helping executive leaders and teams own, model, and drive the integration of business and people development within their organizations. With a 30-year track record in leadership and consulting, Catherine assists executive leaders in designing strategies, navigating the complex human realities of organizational life. She holds an MS in Conflict Analysis and Resolution from George Mason University. Catherine is also the co-author of "Conscious, Capable, and Ready to Contribute: How Employee Development Can Become the Highest Form of Social Contribution."

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/catherineallenao/

Mentions: Conscious, Capable, and Ready to Contribute: How Employee Development Can Become the Highest Form of Social Contribution by Ed Offterdinger and Catherine Allen 

Key Topics Discussed:

Positive Leadership, Employee Development, Societal Impact, Intentional People Development, Interpersonal Skills, Emotional Intelligence, Navigating Challenging Times, Developing Soft Skills, Growth Mindset, Creativity, Empathy, Active Listening, Organizational Change, Self-awareness, Authenticity, Continuous Learning, Development-Centric Culture

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

What makes for a happy life, a fulfilling life? A good life? In celebration of the podcast’s one year anniversary, I'm very excited to share with you a special CEO Mastermind. In this conversation, Dr. Waldinger summarizes the key results from his extraordinary research. You'll also hear from top CEOs in this private session who ask compelling questions around applying these key insights to their personal and professional lives.

What You’ll Learn:

1. The key to happiness

2. The foundation to being interpersonal

3. Does money buy happiness?

4. Nature vs nurture

5. How does culture relate to happiness?

6. An approach to starting out as a new CEO

7. Successfully transitioning into the work from home environment

Who is Dr. Robert Waldinger?

Dr. Robert Waldinger is the New York Times best selling author and Director of Harvard Study of Adult Development, who is leading the longest running longitudinal study tracking the lives of the same individuals from adolescence into their 90s. His research focuses on what truly makes people thrive, emphasizing the importance of relationships for overall well-being. As a psychiatrist and psychoanalyst, Dr. Robert helps individuals work through emotional distress and psychological obstacles using psychodynamic therapy, which explores unconscious conflicts and childhood experiences that impact mental well-being and the ability to adapt to new situations and relationships. Dr. Robert's overall goal is to support individuals in finding clarity amidst the chaos of daily life and cultivating a sense of inner harmony that extends beyond meditation, emphasizing the integration of psychological well-being, relationships, and spiritual growth in the pursuit of a good life.

Mentions:

The Good Life: Lessons from the World's Longest Scientific Study of Happiness: https://www.robertwaldinger.com/books

Follow Dr. Robert Waldinger:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-waldinger-90012169/

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

As the magnetic force behind Wajax, Iggy Domogalski joins us to unravel the threads of positive leadership and their undeniable influence on his corporate culture. Bringing with him a storied career that weaves through executive roles and philanthropic endeavors, Iggy imparts the must-have leadership skills that allow today's movers and shakers to not only adapt to change but to lead it. Our dialogue spans the spectrum from strategic vision to the art of inspiration, all anchored by real-world examples.

Our conversation with Iggy takes an intimate turn when we contemplate the interplay of luck, gratitude, and mentorship in shaping one's career path. He shares stories of pivotal moments and celebrates the enduring support that companies can offer during life-altering events, reinforcing the importance of a compassionate workplace. The discourse on personal growth doesn't end there; we also delve into strategies for fostering innovation. Hear how one of Wajax's products exemplifies the importance of aligning purpose with performance and gain insights into the delicate balance of integrating AI technology in the workplace without losing the human touch.

We round out our discussion by peering into the future, deconstructing how AI and machine learning are reshaping the workplace, and emphasizing the undiminished value of empathy amidst these technological strides. Iggy's perspectives on leading a company through acquisitions and the transition to hybrid work environments stand as a testament to the resilience and adaptability required of contemporary leaders. This episode isn't just a conversation; it’s a masterclass in the evolving landscape of leadership that is sure to leave you equipped and inspired to navigate your own professional journey.

What You’ll Learn:

• Iggy’s career success and philanthropic impact.

• The role of luck, mentorship, and gratitude in shaping our professional journeys.

• Embracing innovation and nurturing a 'say-do' ratio that resonates with action.

• The crafting and communication of organizational values that genuinely represent company culture.

• How AI and machine learning are revolutionizing the workplace without diminishing the value of empathy.

• The agility required to lead through acquisitions and transitions to hybrid work environments.

• Iggy's personal experience transitioning to the role of CEO.

Podcast Timestamps:

(00:00) – Wajax: Anchored in Positive Leadership

(11:12) - The Power of Luck and Gratitude

(16:51) - Fostering Innovation Through Listening 

(23:49) - Crafting and Communicating Organizational Values

(31:18) – The A.I. and Remote Work Revolution

(38:45) – Navigating Company Acquisitions

(44:05) - Transitioning to CEO Role

Key Topics Discussed:

Positive Leadership, Adaptability, Strategic Vision, Inspiration, Mentorship, Core Values, Driving Innovation, Leading with Purpose, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Workplace Dynamics, Empathy, Resilience, Hybrid Work Environments, Mergers and Acquisitions, CEO Success

More of Iggy:

Iggy Domagalski is the CEO of Wajax, one of Canada's longest standing industrial services providers. Iggy served as the CEO of Tundra Process Solutions Limited when he was approached for a buyout of his company by Wajax. In addition to his professional achievements, Iggy is actively involved in fundraising and has served on the boards of organizations such as the Learning Disabilities Association and the Kids Cancer Care Foundation. He has received notable accolades, including being named one of Canada's "Top 40 Under 40" and one of the country's "50 Most Inspirational Entrepreneurs." Iggy's impact is further recognized by an award named in his honor, given annually by a student body since 2004.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iggydomagalski/?originalSubdomain=ca

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Can saying "no" actually strengthen your relationships? Explore this intriguing possibility in this solo episode of the Do Good to Lead Well podcast. Drawing from William Ury's enlightening book, "The Power of a Positive No," we uncover the hidden power behind the word "no" and navigate the common, maladaptive responses it elicits—accommodation, attacking, and avoiding. 

Using this book as our compass, we’ll discuss Ury’s powerful and practical three-step approach to saying a positive no. Using real-life examples from my executive coaching practice, you'll learn the significance of acknowledging requests, sharing constraints, and inviting collaborative problem-solving. 

Join me in this insightful journey to enhance your communication skills and build stronger relationships in your personal and professional life.

What You’ll Learn:

• Why saying no is so hard for us.

• Maladaptive responses we use instead of “No.”

• What is a Positive No?

• The role of collaboration in a positive no.

• A Positive No in action using real-life examples

Podcast Timestamps:

(00:00) - The Importance of Setting and Enforcing Boundaries

(04:53) – The Maladaptive Things We Do Instead of Saying No

(11:07) – What is a Positive No? A 3-Step Process

(15:15) – A Positive No In Action Using Real-life Examples

Key Topics Discussed:

Positive Leadership, Setting Boundaries, Saying No, Managing Relationships, Achieving Harmony, Positive Interactions, Mastering Conflict Resolution, Effective Communication, Navigating Disagreement, Align Priorities, Clarify Expectations, CEO Success

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Have you ever been interested in the field of positive psychology and coaching? Tune into this engaging episode for a captivating journey on the subject with Robert Biswas-Diener, a globally recognized thought leader and researcher. Listen in as Robert shares his extraordinary path, one paved by a childhood shaped by his parents who were top psychologists, to becoming a pioneer in coaching research and practice. His insights challenge us to reconsider our assumptions and approach leadership and life with a renewed perspective. This episode explores the transformative power of coaching and the intricate dance between empathy, questioning, and personal growth.

As we unravel the elements of effective coaching, Robert and I dissect the nuanced art of asking great questions. Learn how to cultivate patience and reflection in decision-making, harness the power of a coaching mindset, and empower the people you care about most at work and at home to find their own solutions. Discover why embracing uncertainty and fostering intellectual humility are the hallmarks of exceptional coaching and leadership. If you’re grappling with imposter syndrome, this discussion offers unconventional insights, including strategies to forge a positive self-view while also recognizing the value and necessity of self-doubt. 

Wrapping up this enlightening episode, we delve into the ethical landscape of coaching within organizations, highlighting the vital role of confidentiality. The conversation also presents strengths-based and resilience-building strategies, providing a roadmap for fostering well-being and performance. 

Whether you’re a seasoned coach, a burgeoning or experienced leader, or simply passionate about personal development, this episode promises to leave you with profound insights and actionable knowledge to elevate your coaching skills and enrich your leadership journey. 

What You’ll Learn:

• Provocative reflections on the ‘conventional wisdom’ of coaching

• The role of intellectual humility in coaching and leadership

• The art of asking the right questions

• The balance of empathy in coaching

• Strategies to combat imposter syndrome

• Navigating the ethical landscape of coaching within organizations

• Why you hold the key to building personal resilience

Podcast Timestamps:

(00:00) - Positive Psychology and Coaching Insights

(09:10) - Elevating our Coaching Practices

(16:36) – Effective Coaching and Asking the Right Questions

(30:08) - Navigating Misconceptions About Empathy and Happiness

(41:24) - Strengths-Based Interventions

(45:12) - Ethical Considerations in Coaching

(51:16) – The Future of Positive Psychology

Key Topics Discussed:

Coaching, Leadership, Personal Growth, Positive Psychology, Intellectual Humility, Empathy, Resilience, Effective Coaching, Coaching Practice, Coaching Mindset, Ethical Coaching, Strengths-Based Interventions, Reflection, Professional Development

More of Robert:

Dr. Robert Biswas-Diener is a well-being researcher and is highly sought-after as a keynote speaker and trainer. He has published over 70 academic articles and chapters on happiness and other positive topics. His research interests include wellbeing, hospitality, leadership, social support, culture, and education. He is also the author of 8 books including the New York Times Bestseller, The Upside of Your Dark Side (2014), and, most recently, Positive Provocation: 25 Questions to Elevate Your Coaching Practice. Dr. Biswas-Diener is widely acknowledged as one of the world's foremost authorities on positive psychology coaching. He is an ICF-certified coach and has trained professionals in his techniques in 24 countries.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-biswas-diener-a860289/

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Have you ever started down a conversational pathway and wish you could turn around and exit stage right? Despite our good intentions, we can find ourselves knee-deep in a complex and challenging situation. Our ‘Speak-First, Think-Later’ culture amplifies the potential risk.

Join me in this month’s solo episode as I unveil a simple yet powerful three-step process, borrowed from an unlikely source—the comedian Craig Ferguson. We probe the depths of when to speak, what to share, and who should deliver the message, turning your communication into a deliberate and effective tool. Discover how asking ourselves these critical questions before speaking can steer us away from potential conversational pitfalls and guide us toward more meaningful interactions.

What You’ll Learn:

• A 3-step reflection process to guide if and how you contribute to crucial conversations

• The importance of asking why you are sharing this message

• The role of timing in effective communication

• Being strategic about the messenger

Podcast Timestamps:

(00:00) Introduction

(01:55) The Importance of Effective Communication

(02:22) Introducing Craig Ferguson's Three-Step Process

(03:25) Question 1: Does This Need to Be Said?

(05:52) Question 2: Does This Need to Be Said by Me?

(09:02) Question 3: Does This Need to Be Said by Me Now?

(10:30) Applying the Three-Step Process in Real Life

(14:16) Conclusion

Key Topics Discussed:

Meaningful Connection, Communication, Open-ended Questions, Self-reflection, Managing Relationships, Navigating Conflict, Emotional Intelligence, Craig Ferguson, Timing, Effective Communication, Actionable Tips, Personal Development

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Discover how to revolutionize your organization by embedding inclusion into its very DNA. Explore the foundations of Amri's groundbreaking book, "Reconstructing Inclusion," which challenges the norms of traditional DEI approaches. Through his experiences at Novartis, Amri shares how organizations can cultivate environments where everyone thrives by aligning skills and capabilities with their purpose.

Addressing the elephant in the room, we tackle the current backlash against DEI efforts and explore the concept of anti-fragility. Learn how creating spaces for civil dialogue and fostering cognitive diversity can combat ideological resistance and enhance productivity. Amri also highlights how focusing on agency and prevention versus (over)reaction leads to a more sustainable and inclusive organizational culture.

We close the conversation unpacking the nuances of cultural intelligence and relational fitness, vital tools for navigating the complexities of building inclusive environments for all. Join us for this transformative conversation where you will walk away with actionable strategies to foster growth, collaboration, and inclusivity in your organization.

What You’ll Learn

- How to build sustainable and inclusive organizations.

- A challenge to traditional DEI frameworks.

- An introduction to the COST model—Care, Openness, Safety, and Trust.

- Ways to create vibrant, thriving work environments that inspire and empower everyone.

Podcast Timestamps

(00:00) - Creating Inclusive and Generative Organizations

(10:27) - Navigating DEI Backlash and Anti-Fragility

(23:02) - Creating Inclusive Organizations

(28:20) - Embracing Inclusion Beyond Surface Identities

(41:51) - Navigating Cultural Intelligence for Inclusion

(47:46) - Sustainable Inclusion Practices in Organizations

KEYWORDS

Positive Leadership, Inclusive Organizations, Social Capitalism, Inclusion Strategy, DEI Frameworks, Sustainable Practices, Anti-Fragility, Cognitive Diversity, Respectful Dialogue, Cultural Intelligence, Relational Fitness, Inclusive Leadership, Collaborative Growth, Mutual Understanding, CEO Success

Ever wondered how the greats of our time catapult themselves to the top of their fields? That's the burning question we tackle with the brilliant minds behind the recently released book, "Learned Excellence." Authors Eric Potterat (PhD) and Alan Eagle shed light on the idea that peak performance isn't solely a gift of nature, but a skill that can be learned and developed. Using a hardware-software metaphor, they highlight how our software is vitally important to truly maximize our potential.

During our engaging conversation, the authors illustrate how the world's elite performers consistently align their actions with their core values. As we delve deeper into the idea, you're invited to create your personal values credo, and how such clarity can streamline your decision-making, augment your performance, and serve as a beacon through life's tumultuous journey. 

We also delve into the science and practice of effective goal-setting. Goals are an essential aspect of achieving excellence, as they provide clear direction, keeping us focused and motivated. They act as a roadmap to our destination, enabling us to measure our progress and adjust our strategies accordingly. This way, we can effectively manage our time and resources, and significantly enhance our chances of success.

In our final leg of the episode, we turn the spotlight to the concept of mental toughness, as our guests highlight the transformative potential of embracing failures and nurturing incremental personal growth. They share how to use evidence-informed strategies, from visualization to stress management techniques, which are vital for building resilience. Compelling vignettes of high performers teach us that mental toughness is not just about weathering the storm but thriving within it, guiding listeners on how to achieve a harmonious balance across the spectrum of life's endeavors.

Join us for this riveting exchange that promises to equip you with the tools to chase excellence in your own life’s journey.

What You’ll Learn:

• Debunking the myth that peak performance is born, not made.

• The power of a personal values credo.

• How to balance life’s pillars to foster resilience and build a meaningful legacy.

• The science of effective goal setting.

• Embracing a growth mindset to transform setbacks into success.

• Practical techniques for cultivating mental toughness.

Podcast Timestamps:

(00:00) - Writing the Book on Peak Performance

(05:16) – Success Is All About the Quality of Your Software

(12:25) – Peak Performance Springs From Our Values

(18:22) – The Science and Practice of Goal Setting

(27:53) – Embracing a Growth Mindset

(40:01) - Mental Toughness and its Role in Achieving Excellence

Key Topics Discussed:

Performance, Peak Performance, Learned Excellence, Identity, Values, Skill Enhancement, Authentic Decision-Making, Goal Setting, SMART Goals, Resilience, Legacy, Growth Mindset, Mental Toughness, Stress Management, Adversity Tolerance, Life in Balance, Personal Growth

More of Eric and Alan:

Eric’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-g-potterat-ph-d-49ab6b93

Alan’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alaneagle/

Mentions: Trillion Dollar Coach, Learned Excellence

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Steve Dennis, a strategic advisor and author of "Leaders Leap: Transforming Your Company at the Speed of Disruption," joins us to share his insights on the keys to successful leadership in a rapidly changing world. Our conversation highlights the importance of maintaining a competitive edge and thriving amidst uncertainty, providing listeners with actionable takeaways to enhance their leadership journey.

One of the key themes we explore is the challenge of ego in leadership. Through personal stories and industry examples, we examine how clinging to outdated thinking can hinder progress. Steve and I emphasize the necessity for leaders to cultivate humility and flexibility, highlighting the power of mindfulness and self-awareness in decision-making. By distinguishing one's identity from one's ideas, leaders can transform ego into a constructive force, ensuring it supports rather than obstructs their goals.

We also tackle the integral roles of failure and innovation in achieving success. Steve discusses the concept of "failing fast and forward," encouraging leaders to embrace experimentation as a means to adapt and thrive. As we examine the evolving landscape of digital attention and AI, we share strategies for capturing consumer interest and integrating generative AI tools into business practices. This episode is a call to action for leaders to prioritize innovation and technology, challenging them to move boldly and act decisively in a fast-paced world.

What You’ll Learn:

• Powerful insights on transformative leadership in the face of disruption

• Navigating change with humble leadership

• Strategies for taming out ego

• The importance of celebrating failure as a stepping stone towards success

• How to unleash the potential of AI to drive innovation

• Actionable strategies to lead with agility and maintain a cutting-edge advantage.

Podcast Timestamps:

(00:00) - Leadership Transformation in Disruption

(16:42) - The Problem with Ego in Leadership

(28:48) - Adapting to the Speed of Disruption

(35:53) - Embracing Failure for Success

(48:43) - Experimenting with Generative AI

More of Steve:

Steve Dennis is a strategic advisor, keynote speaker, podcast host, and bestselling author, recognized globally for his expertise in retail transformation. As the author of "Leaders Leap: Transforming Your Company at the Speed of Disruption" and "Remarkable Retail," Steve's insights on the future of shopping are frequently featured in Forbes, CNN, and Bloomberg. He has delivered keynote talks on six continents, sharing his vision for reigniting customer growth amidst constant change. As President of Sageberry Consulting and a former executive at Neiman Marcus, Steve has guided numerous brands through disruptive growth strategies. He holds an MBA from Harvard and a BA from Tufts University, and resides in Dallas, Texas.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevenpdennis/ 

Mentions:

Remarkable Retail: How to Win & Keep Customers in the Age of Disruption by Steve Dennis

Key Topics Discussed:

Positive Leadership, Navigating Disruption, Managing Ego, Promoting Innovation, Advancing Technology, Dealing with Failure, Fail Forward, A.I., Devising Strategy, Practicing Mindfulness, Increasing Self-awareness, Experimentation, Digital Attention, Competitive Edge, Embracing Transformation, Humility, Flexibility, Effective Decision-making, Personal Growth, CEO Success

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Do you think that humility is a superpower or kryptonite for executives? If you’re like most people, you likely believe the former; being humble will undermine your effectiveness as people will perceive you as weak.

I had the privilege to speak with Urs Koenig, the bestselling author of Radical Humility: Be A Badass Boss and a Good Human. We explored how humility is not just a feel-good quality for leaders. It is foundational to drive exceptional performance; for themselves and for their teams/organizations.

Based on his extensive experience consulting with global companies, we unpack how humility allows us to grow and expand. Contrary to popular belief, Urs shares how humility takes great strength to practice. We also explore several key strategies we can use at an individual, team, and organizational level.

What You'll Learn:

• Common misconceptions about humility.

• Why humility is such an important skill for our personal and professional lives.

• How feedback is the engine that drives peak performance.

• How to create psychological safety in our conversations.

• How to prime conversations for constructive outcomes, even in conflict.

Podcast Timestamps:

(0:00) - Introduction

(4:55) - The Inspiration Behind Radical Humility

(7:48) – What is Humility?

(10:23) – Why Are There Successful Jerks?

(14:29) – Asking for Feedback Takes Strength

(24:49) – Failure As A Driver for Success

(47:50) – The Power of Psychological Safety

Key Topics Discussed:

Humility, Humble Leadership, Meaningful Connection, Asking Questions, Do Good to Lead Well, Asking for Feedback, Curiosity, Psychological Safety, Leadership Success, 360-Feedback

More of Urs:

Urs Koenig is a distinguished figure with a 35-year career spanning UN peacekeeping, NATO command, bestselling authorship, executive coaching, and academia. His keynote speeches emphasize Radical Humility, a vital yet often overlooked leadership trait, offering actionable strategies to drive engagement, self-awareness, and psychological safety within organizations. Urs's practical approach and rich experiences empower leaders to navigate challenges, foster innovation, and unlock their team's full potential for sustainable success in today's fast-paced world.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/urs-koenig-ab3828/ 

Mentions: Fail Well by Amy Edmonson

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Jon Rennie is a business leader, author and speaker. He is co-founder, president and CEO of Peak Demand Inc., a global manufacturer of products for electric utilities. He served as a naval officer on nuclear submarines during the Cold War and has been leading industrial business for more than 20 years. Jon is passionate about leadership and employee engagement. His articles and blog posts have been read and shared all over the world. He believes that leadership can make a significant difference in the performance of any organization. In this episode, Craig and Jon discuss the importance of tailoring leadership, addressing disengagement at work and why failure is important.

Are you ready to unlock the transformative power of the digital mindset? Join me as I engage in an enlightening discussion with Dr. Paul Leonardi, a renowned digital thought-leader and author of the compelling book, Digital Mindset: What It Really Takes to Thrive in the Age of Data, Algorithms and AI. We'll peel back the layers on the crucial role of technology in driving organizational change, and how a deft grasp on data, A.I. and algorithms can fuel performance and innovation in today's ever-evolving workspace.

Picture yourself in the shoes of a corporate leader struggling with inclusive decision-making in a diverse team. How would you navigate this? Dr. Leonardo serves us an intriguing case study demonstrating how a digital mindset can be harnessed to rectify such a predicament. We'll also explore the importance of humility in cultivating this mindset and the level of technical proficiency required. It's a journey of discovery that challenges conventional wisdom and pushes the boundaries of strategic thinking.

The digital landscape is an intimidating frontier for many. Together with Dr. Leonardi, we'll confront the fears surrounding new tech tools, unravel the potential of A.I. in generating value for your organization, and underscore the significance of data literacy and psychological safety amidst these changes. Moreover, we'll explore how leaders can maintain a meaningful and effective connection with their team in this digital age. Join us as we equip you with the essential tools to thrive in the exciting new world of digital transformation.

What You’ll Learn:

• Uncover the blueprint of the digital mindset and the essential skills for innovation in the modern workplace.

• How a product leader transformed team decision-making with a digital approach.

• Discover the level of technical proficiency required to harness the digital mindset effectively.

• Strategies for overcoming the fear of new tech.

• Explore the transformative potential of AI in creating space for creative thinking and innovation.

• Understand the significance of data literacy and psychological safety in the context of digital transformation.

Podcast Timestamps:

(00:00) - Exploring the Digital Mindset

(10:26) – The Power of the Digital Mindset

(24:54) - Embracing A.I. for Digital Transformation

(36:47) - Skill Building in a Digital Environment

(44:54) - Data Literacy and the Importance of Psychological Safety

Key Topics Discussed:

Positive Leadership, Digital Mindset, A.I., Algorithms, Technological Advancement, Inclusive Decision-Making, Technological Proficiency, Humility, Digital Transformation, Data Literacy, Psychological Safety, A.I. Game-Changer, Creative Thinking, Strategic Conversations, Technological Innovation, Technology Disruption, CEO Success

More of Paul:

At UC Santa Barbara Dr. Leonardi is chair of the technology management department whose programs are all aimed at teaching engineers and other technical leaders how to build and run innovative companies. In addition to his extensive speaking and consulting work, he has published over 80 articles and chapters in peer reviewed journals and management outlets, including Harvard Business Review and Sloan Management Review. He's also the author of three books on innovation and organizational change. And he has won major awards for his research, including from very well respected organizations like the Academy of Management and the American Sociological Association. His most recent book, The Digital Mindset: What It Really Takes to Thrive in the Age of Data, Algorithms, and AI, explores digital literacy, the roles technology can play in our organizations, and how we can adapt with it.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-leonardi-45b67321/

Mentions:

The Digital Mindset, Humble, The Right Kind of Wrong

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Tune in to discover the power of authentic leadership and transformative corporate culture with Garry Ridge, the highly esteemed Chairman Emeritus of WD-40 Company. Ever wondered how some leaders turn failure into a stepping stone for success? This episode will equip you with the tools to redefine setbacks as valuable "learning moments" and nurture a positive, growth-oriented workplace culture. We promise you'll walk away with actionable insights on fostering engagement, accountability and resilience within your teams.

Explore the profound impact of self-awareness and empathy as Garry shares wisdom from his provocatively titled USA Today bestseller, "Any Dumbass Can Do It." Discover how mental health, authentic communication, and leading with core values form the bedrock of a thriving workplace, especially during challenging times. Learn from cautionary tales like Alex, the soul-sucking CEO of Fear Inc., to steer clear of toxic leadership pitfalls.

Garry offers valuable strategies for leaders to build psychologically safe workplaces through intention and candor. He illustrates the significance of vulnerability, encouraging open dialogue to avoid fear-driven behaviors. By unpacking the concept of a values hierarchy, Garry shows how this approach empowers everyone across the company to make the right decisions so they can focus on their best work. Listen is as one of the world’s top Chief Executives shares his insights from a career of servant leadership and putting people first. You will leave inspired and empowered!

What You’ll Learn:

• The creation story of WD-40 and how redefining failures as "learning moments" fosters resilience.

• The critical role of mental health in building thriving organizational cultures.

• Practical strategies for leaders to build psychologically safe workplaces.

• The importance of a values hierarchy to create alignment and unlock the potential within your organization.

• How self-awareness and prioritizing reflection can lead to enduring influence and build an enduring legacy of excellence.

Podcast Timestamps:

(00:00) – The Origin Story for the Book Title

(14:07) – Empathy, Humility, and Self-Awareness: Key Ingredients for Strong Leadership

(21:47) - Leadership Through Intention and Candor

(28:22) – The Power of a Values Hierarchy

(39:12) - Cultivating Authentic Leadership in Today's World

(50:03) - Reflections on Leadership Legacy

More of Garry:

Garry Ridge is a leadership coach, author, and culture expert dedicated to helping organizations build workplaces where people feel valued, connected, and inspired. As Chairman Emeritus of the WD-40 Company, he spent over 35 years leading, growing, and transforming global businesses, fostering a culture of innovation and engagement. Now, he coaches executives, advises organizations, and speaks worldwide on the power of workplace culture. A board member for The Gorilla Glue Company and Eastridge Workforce Solutions, Garry also taught leadership principles as an adjunct professor at the University of San Diego. His book, Any Dumb Ass Can Do It (2025), distills his leadership philosophy—emphasizing clarity, consistency, and culture. Passionate about creating high-trust environments, he believes in putting people first, prioritizing learning over ego, and leading with values like love, care, and accountability.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garryridge/

Key Topics Discussed:

Positive Leadership, Corporate Culture, Empathy, Self-awareness, WD-40, Fear Inc., Authentic Leadership, Mental Health, Purpose, Values Hierarchy, Building A Legacy, Growth Mindset, Vulnerability, Reflection, Intention, Candor, Learning Moments, Learning from Failure, Living Your Values, Building Trust, Servant Leadership, Soul-Sucking CEO, Values-Based Leadership, CEO Success

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Ozan Varol is a rocket scientist turned award-winning professor and author dedicated to helping people reimagine the status quo. Rocket scientists have a specifically unique mindset and worldview that helps them succeed and Ozan's experience sparked the realization in him that with the right tools, the everyday person could leverage this way of thinking to take giant leaps. Ozan has been called a “true original” by Adam Grant and dubbed a “superhero” by Dan Pink. His work has been described as “must read” by Susan Cain and featured in the Wall Street Journal, Time, BBC, CNN, Fast Company, Washington Post, and more. Giant leaps in recent years are often attributed to the triumph of technology, but really the triumph is within the mindset that the impossible is possible. This week's episode discusses in depth the mindset changes needed to improve your problem solving, decision making, approaches to failure and more. Craig Dowden invites Ozan Varol to share what it means to think like a rocket scientist and practical ways to put this into use.

What You Will Learn:

1. What is Ozan's Scientific Method Mindset?

2. Living life as a series of hypothesis and trials

3. The importance of bringing an outsider into the conversation

4. Lean into uncertainty

5. All breakthroughs happen in uncertain times

6. Learn fast

Mentions:

https://ozanvarol.com

Both humility and authenticity involve a willingness to be vulnerable. A humble leader is willing to admit their mistakes and weaknesses, while an authentic leader is willing to be genuine and transparent with their team. Together, these traits are the key to building trust and fostering a culture of positivity and openness.

What You’ll Learn:

1. The dichotomy behind enoughness when practicing humility

2. How to ask for and receive feedback

3. Alan Mulally’s definition of authentic leadership

4. How to provide a sense of calm in these ambiguous times

5. Encouraging vulnerability by creating psychological safety

6. The power behind the statement “I don’t know”

Mentions:

Humble: Free Yourself from the Traps of a Narcissistic World: https://www.darylvantongeren.com/books

Daryl Van Tongeren - E31: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/leading-with-humility-from-ego-to-empathy-daryl-van/id1634491338?i=1000602431520

Duane Green - E34: https://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/learn-to-leverage-a-leaders-most-valuable-currency/id1634491338?i=1000605499896

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

As humans we’re constantly seeking confirmation of what we believe and affirmation of our ego. What possibilities would be unlocked if you became the best version of yourself? Is the journey to the best self ever complete? In this episode, Ed Hess answers these questions and more.

What You’ll Learn:

1. The skills to be a highly adaptive learner in the face of the current technological revolution

2. The biggest competition you’ll have going forward is you. How do you overcome the biases you have?

3. How to take ownership of your mind, emotions and behaviors

4. A mindful breath work meditation exercise that’ll quiet your ego, mind, body and emotions so you can better focus on listening and relating to others

5. Hacks to becoming a better listener

Who is Ed?

Ed Hess is a best selling author of 15 books, 160 practitioner articles, and 60 Darden business cases on topics related to business growth, innovation, and entrepreneurship, including Hyper-Learning: How to Adapt to the Speed of Change and Own Your Work Journey: The Path to Meaningful Work and Happiness in the Age of Smart Technology and Radical Change. His work has been featured in numerous publications, including The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, and Harvard Business Review. Ed Hess is a Professor Emeritus of Business Administration and Batten Executive-in-Residence at the Darden Graduate School of Business at the University of Virginia. He is also the Founder and Executive Director of the Darden School's Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, and the Co-Director of the Darden School's Leading Growth and Change executive education program. Prior to his academic career, Ed was a successful entrepreneur and business executive. He co-founded and served as the CEO of The Martin Agency, one of the largest advertising agencies in the United States. He also served as the CEO of another successful advertising agency, and held senior marketing positions at two Fortune 500 companies.

Mentions:

Own Your Work Journey: The Path to Meaningful Work and Happiness in the Age of Smart Technology and Radical Change: https://www.amazon.com/OWN-YOUR-WORK-JOURNEY-Meaningful/dp/B0BW2SL7Q3

Follow Ed:

Website: https://www.edhess.org/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edward-hess-41638b16/?locale=ms_MY

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Have you ever felt like you’re speaking, but nobody is truly listening? This month on Do Good to Lead Well, I bring you the secrets to amplifying your listening skills, inspired by the wisdom shared in the bestselling book, ‘Crucial Conversations’ by Kerry Patterson and their colleagues. As we wave goodbye to March and gear up to tackle the rest of the year, there’s no better skill to polish than the art of active listening. In this episode, we unpack the AMPP model (yes, that is not a spelling mistake), and how it can transform the way you connect with others, solve problems, and foster positive team dynamics. 

In our lives, both personal and professional, the simple yet profound act of listening holds the key to unlocking vast pools of knowledge. I’ll guide you through crafting open-ended questions that invite expansive and enlightening dialogue, steering clear of those that lead to dead-end  ‘yes’ or ‘no’ answers.

You’ll also discover the power of mirroring, a simple yet profound technique that reflects understanding and empathy. You have likely seen it work wonders with infants, and I’ll show you how it can have the same impact on adults in any setting. No guests this time around, just you and me exploring the profound impact of deep listening and how it can lead to more meaningful interactions and outcomes. These strategies are not just theoretical—they’re backed by compelling research and real-world application, ready for you to apply in your daily interactions. Join me on this journey to elevate not only how you listen but how you can make the people you care about feel heard.

What You’ll Learn:

• Why active listening is so important and why so few of us do it effectively.

• The art of strategic questioning and how it deepens relationships and accesses new insights.

• How to employ mirroring to build rapport and show understanding.

• How paraphrasing is the ultimate fail-safe tool to demonstrate active listening.

• How to prime conversations for constructive outcomes, even in conflict.

Podcast Timestamps:

(0:00) - Introduction to the Episode

(2:30) - The Importance of Active Listening and an Overview of the AMPP Model

(5:12) – The Power of Asking Open-Ended Questions

(8:57) - Mirroring in Conversations

(14:29) - The Art of Paraphrasing

(19:45) - Priming the Conversation

(21:55) - Conclusion

Key Topics Discussed:

Active Listening, Engaging Conversation, Meaningful Connection, Communication, Open-ended Questions, Mirroring, Ask Questions, Managing Relationships, Curiosity, Rapport, Empathy, Emotional Intelligence

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

What is trust? Why is it essential to leadership? How can you become more trusted? In this episode, Darryl Stickel answers these questions and more.

What You’ll Learn:

1. How to identify if trust is missing from your organization

2. What are the two components of trust: vulnerability and uncertainty

3. Examples of transparent communication that’ll allow you to connect with anyone

4. Using benevolence, integrity, ability and context to reduce uncertainty that others feel about us

5. What to expect from someone when practicing vulnerability

6. Teeing up conversations to approach them without judgment and create clarity

7. Can you be benevolent and hold people accountable at the same time?

Who is Darryl Stickel?

Darryl is a highly experienced executive coach and expert in trust-building. He has a PhD in "Building Trust in Hostile Environments" from Duke University. He Founded, Trust Unlimited, whose mission is to help individuals and organizations create an environment of higher trust levels that fosters collaboration, encourages risk-taking, and leads to significant advancements. He also authored the book, Building Trust: Exceptional Leadership in an Uncertain World, to further expand on the principles of trust within leadership.

Mentions:

Building Trust: Exceptional Leadership in an Uncertain World: https://www.simonandschuster.com/books/Building-Trust/Darryl-Stickel/9781637630792

Follow Darryl:

Website: https://www.trustunlimited.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darryl-stickel-phd-b544b?originalSubdomain=ca

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

How can a positive leadership and company culture lead to massive success? How can this culture be spread throughout all offices in a company? In this episode, Roheel Ahmad answers these questions and more.

What You’ll Learn:

1. Why Roheel gave his employees a 10% raise, across the board.

2. When your people do well, the business will do well.

3. How experiences can mean more than earnings.

4. How to be close with employees, but have high expectations.

5. How to make sure your positive company culture exists in all your offices.

6. Why good managing means serving your employees.

7. How job offers should be more like marriage proposals.

Who is Roheel?

Roheel Ahmad is Co-founder and Managing Partner of Forsyth Barnes, which over the past 8 years has grown to over 100 million pounds in revenue! Taking his company international, Roheel has opened an office in New York, with plans for Los Angeles and Dubai. A major focus for Roheel is company culture, leading to his great successes. The Financial Times has recognized FB as one of the fastest growing businesses in Europe.

Follow Roheel:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roheelahmad/ 

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

With the world in a constant state of flux, how do you manage change? You only have two options: be the recipient or be the cause. In this episode, Caroline Riseboro discusses these two options and more.

What You’ll Learn:

1. Where should decisions be made within your organization?

2. The value of transparency

3. Grit is the most common trait of successful people

4. Sharing your experience is key to addressing loneliness and creating rapport within your team

5. How to set performance expectations

6. The soft skills that are invaluable for this new economy

7. As a leader, do you need to have all the answers?

Who is Caroline?

Caroline Riseboro currently serves as the President and CEO of Trillium Health Partners Foundation, one of the largest hospitals in Canada. In 2019, Caroline was awarded Canada’s most admired CEO in the broader public sector. Twice, she’s been named one of Canada's 100 Most Powerful Women. She remains the youngest person in history to lead a major Canadian charity. 

Follow Caroline:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/criseboro/?originalSubdomain=ca

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Ed Hess is Professor Emeritus of Business Administration, Batten Fellow and Batten Executive-in-Residence Emeritus at the Darden Graduate School of Business, University of Virginia, and the author of Hyper-Learning: How to Adapt to the Speed of Change. He spent twenty years in the business world as a Senior Executive and has spent the last 18 years in academia. Ed is the author of 13 books, over 140 articles and 60 Darden Case studies. His work has appeared in over 400 global media outlets including Fortune magazine, Forbes, Huffington Post, Washington Post, Dow Jones Radio, MSNBC Radio and Business Insider. His recent books and research have focused on “Human Excellence in the Digital Age: A New Way of Being; A New Way of Working; Humanizing the Workplace; and Hyper-Learning”. In this episode, Ed talks more about redefining the ego, setting daily intentions and collaboration.

Have you ever looked in the mirror and your reflection does not match how others see you in the world? Have you been in situations where your intentions do not match your impact and it negatively affects your success and relationships? In this engaging episode, bestselling authors Scott Osman and Jacquelyn Lane join me to discuss the essence of coachability. They also discuss the personal pathways that led them to embrace coaching for self-improvement. 

Our conversation unveils the profound impact that a culture of feedback, gratitude, and continuous improvement can have on leaders and their teams. We start by diving deep into what being coachable means and answer critical questions such as how we can select the best coach for our self-development journey. 

We also explore the critical importance of feedback. In particular, Scott and Jacquelyn emphasize how saying thank you is one of the most powerful tools in a leader’s arsenal when it comes to creating a feedback-rich environment. Rather than responding to or challenging the other person’s observation, expressing gratitude is a powerful reinforcing approach to continue receiving the feedback we need to be at our best. The art of receiving feedback becomes a dance, where each step is about maintaining balance between openness and critically reflecting on the insights shared by those around you. 

When the rubber hits the road, accountability and intentional change are the vehicles driving leaders towards their goals. Sharing strategies for aligning daily actions with our core values, we look at how setbacks can be repositioned as growth opportunities, and every sunrise offers a new chance at success. Join us as we narrate transformational tales of leadership and the importance of stakeholder-centered coaching. Whether you’re at the helm of an organization or steering your personal career, this episode is filled with guidance on mastering the art of self-leadership through the impactful process of coaching.

What You’ll Learn:

• Discover the secrets of becoming coachable and finding the right coach • How a culture of feedback combined with a spirit of gratitude can optimize your leadership style.

• Uncover the balance between vulnerability and strength that is key to leadership excellence. • Equip yourself with strategies for eliciting constructive feedback and nurturing growth. • Understand the importance of accountability and intentional change in your daily practice. • Understand Backsliding and Progress in Leadership Development • The Concept of Flourishing Leadership

Podcast Timestamps:

(00:00) - Mastering Self Leadership Through Coaching

(11:02) - Choosing the Right Coach

(24:38) - Importance of Feedback and Gratitude

(32:17) - Accountability and Intentional Change

(38:15) - The Path to Flourishing Leadership

Key Topics Discussed:

Self-leadership, Coachability, Personal Growth, Feedback, Continuous Improvement, Accountability, Intentional Change, Core Values, Leadership Development, Coaching, 360 Assessments, Sustainable Change, Stakeholder-centered Coaching.

More of Scott and Jacquelyn:

Scott’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottosman/

Jacquelyn’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacquelyn-lane/

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Ever struggled with how to deliver effective feedback? Have you ever wondered if there is such a thing as too much honesty? How can I share my truth without hurting the other person? If so, this episode is definitely for you.

Join me as I speak with Kim Scott, the bestselling author of "Radical Candor" and "Radical Respect," to share her profound insights on effective interpersonal and workplace dynamics. We open the conversation by diving into the complexities of addressing implicit biases and fostering an inclusive environment. Kim recounts a transformative moment that led her to champion radical respect.

In this enlightening conversation, we break down the often misunderstood concepts of bias, prejudice, and bullying, providing you with practical strategies to tackle each issue head-on. Learn how "I" statements can address unconscious biases, "it" statements can confront prejudice, and "you" statements can effectively call out bullying. We emphasize the importance of speaking up against wrongdoing and making conscious decisions that align with your personal values to foster a respectful and positive workplace culture.

Join us as we explore the pivotal role of radical candor in communication, especially in fast-paced environments where honest feedback can transform team dynamics. Our engaging dialogue offers strategies for discussing diversity, equity, and inclusion with a growth mindset, underscoring the significance of grace and understanding in fostering a more inclusive and respectful work environment. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for leaders committed to nurturing a culture of respect and positive team dynamics.

What You’ll Learn:

• The subtle but critical differences between bias, prejudice, and bullying.

• Practical strategies to address bias, prejudice, and bullying - hint: they are not the same.

• The critical role of honest feedback and radical candor in fast-paced environments.

• Fostering a culture of inclusion, diversity, and equity with a growth mindset.

• Confronting unconscious biases and overcoming workplace bullying with respect

Podcast Timestamps:

(00:00) – An Introduction to Radical Respect

(10:55) - Effective Communication Strategies for Speaking with Respect

(26:38) - Fostering Radical Candor in Communication

(33:04) - Creating a Culture of Radical Respect

(39:13) - Confronting Bias in the Workplace

(45:53) - Challenging Bias with Grace 

(51:59) – How to Confront Workplace Bullying with Respect

More of Kim:

Kim Scott is the bestselling author of "Radical Respect: How to Work Together Better" and "Radical Candor: Be a Kickass Boss Without Losing Your Humanity." She co-founded Radical Candor and has served as a CEO coach at Dropbox, Qualtrics, Twitter, and other tech companies. Kim was also a faculty member at Apple University and previously led the AdSense, YouTube, and DoubleClick teams at Google. Kim co-hosts the podcasts "Radical Candor" and "Radical Respect" and lives with her family in Silicon Valley. Her books are highly regarded and frequently referenced by coaches and speakers, who find her ideas and principles transformative in both their personal and professional lives.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimm4/ 

Mentions:

Radical Respect: How To Work Together Better by Kim Scott

Radical Candor: Be a Kickass Boss Without Losing Your Humanity by Kim Scott

Key Topics Discussed:

Positive Leadership, Respectful Workplace, Radical Candor, Radical Respect, Effective Communication, Overcoming Bias, Dealing with Prejudice, Bullying, Effective Feedback, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Growth Mindset, Positive Culture, Workplace Dynamics, Conscious Decision-Making, Team Success, Honest Communication, Unconscious Bias, Inclusive Environment, Toxic Behavior

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Ever felt that rush of release after venting your frustrations, only to be engulfed by the same fiery emotions moments later? Although it may come as a surprise, this episode reveals the double-edged sword that is venting. In fact, your well-intended cathartic release might be doing more harm than good, intensifying feelings of anger and perpetuating a victim mentality. Far from being the pressure valve we often consider it to be, unleashing our grievances often fans the flames of negativity. Venting in the echo chambers of social media can be a high-stakes game, and we dissect the reasons why it’s so risky compared to face-to-face interactions. We’ll guide you through the art of transforming the urge to vent into a strategy for empowerment, with a focus on intentionality and cultivating a mindset of curiosity. Your takeaways will include actionable advice for becoming a better communicator and listener, crucial skills for building stronger relationships and leading with empathy. So join us for an episode that’s not just about venting—it’s about transforming our approach to emotional challenges and becoming the leaders we aspire to be.

What You’ll Learn:

• The dark side of venting and its effects on our well-being and those around us.

• How to turn venting into a process of empowerment.

• How to navigate the risks of venting through social media.

• How to transition from a victim mentality to a growth and resilience mindset.

• Evidence-based tips for how to manage our emotions more effectively.

Podcast Timestamps:

(00:19) - The Negative Effects of Venting

(09:31) - Dangers of Social Media Venting

(15:43) - Effective Venting and Listening Dynamics

KEYWORDS

Venting, Emotional Intelligence, Managing Emotions, Emotional Contagion, Social Media, Empowerment, Reframing, Listening, Mindset, Curiosity, Personal Growth, Resilience, Victim Mentality, Effective Communication.

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Do you think that asking for help is a leadership superpower? Join us as we sit down with Justine Hendricks, President and CEO of FCC, to answer this thought-provoking question and many others over the course of our discussion.

We start by examining the importance of curiosity, particularly for CEOs who must navigate complex crises and uncharted territories. Justine shares her thoughts on maintaining an open mind and understanding different perspectives before jumping to solutions. Additionally, we discuss the critical role of communication and accessibility in leadership, emphasizing how these qualities help leaders adapt to today's dynamic environment.

Justine takes us through the evolving workplace culture, emphasizing how humility and the willingness to ask for help have become essential strengths. Reflecting on significant events like George Floyd, she illustrates the profound impact of observation and reflection in addressing the root causes of crises. We delve into the emotional aspects of organizational transformation, highlighting how clear communication and linking changes to the company’s mission can build trust and resilience among employees.

Finally, we explore the critical roles of authenticity and active listening in leadership. Justine shares her thoughts on the importance of balancing being true to oneself with maintaining awareness of the surrounding environment. We stress the importance of setting boundaries, celebrating small wins, and prioritizing well-being to cultivate a supportive and sustainable leadership approach. This episode offers a rich tapestry of insights, personal anecdotes, and actionable advice for anyone looking to enhance their leadership journey.

What You’ll Learn:

• The indispensable role of curiosity in CEO success

• Embracing vulnerability and the strength in asking for help

• Managing the emotional landscape of organizational transformation

• Authenticity as a cornerstone of genuine human connection

• The underestimated power of active listening

• Prioritizing well-being for sustained leadership effectiveness

Podcast Timestamps:

(00:00) – What Are the Essential Leadership Qualities?

(13:10) - The Power of Asking for Help

(21:43) - Navigating Transformation and Challenge

(34:20) - The Role of Authenticity in Strong Leadership

(39:55) – The Importance of Active Listening in Leadership Excellence

(46:23) - Prioritizing Well-Being in Leadership

More of Justine:

Justine Hendricks is the President and CEO of FCC, a Canadian federal crown corporation which offers financing, insurance, software, and more to Canada’s agriculture industry. With previous experience at RBC and Export Development Canada, Kristine has a wealth of knowledge to offer when it comes to building, leading, and empowering successful teams in business. She's a member of the University of Ottawa Board of Governors and currently sits on their Audit Committee. She earned an MBA from the University of Ottawa and a bachelor's degree from Carleton University.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justine-hendricks-ab82664/

Key Topics Discussed:

Leadership, Effective Leadership, Curiosity, Open-mindedness, Communication, Navigating Uncertainty, Crisis Management, Workplace Culture, Humility, Vulnerability, Asking for Help, Human Connection, Organizational Transformation, Authenticity, Active Listening, Well-being, Setting Boundaries, CEO Success

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

In this special episode of the Do Good to Lead Well podcast, I sit down with Goldy Hyder, the dynamic CEO of the Business Council of Canada, for a riveting exploration of the complexities shaping the Canadian business and leadership landscape. Listen in as Goldy highlights Canada’s fortunate position, endowed with natural resources and strategic trade relationships, against the stark challenges confronting our nation today. From the necessity of driving economic growth to navigating the energy transition and fortifying cybersecurity, Goldy provides an unvarnished look at the factors crucial to preserving Canada’s esteemed place on the global stage.

We then shift our focus to the power of unity as we talk about the Coalition for a Better Future, where diverse voices converge to influence government policy on pressing issues, including long-term economic strategies and the fight against inequality to curb the rise of populism. We share stories of how past crises, like the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrated the remarkable potential for public and private sectors to come together in times of need, setting a precedent for future success.

Rounding out our conversation, we talk about the indispensable qualities that define today’s visionary leaders. From fostering diversity and innovation to embracing authenticity, the episode showcases how senior leaders have a transformative impact on both individual success and the collective well-being of society.

What You’ll Learn:

• The dual nature of Canada’s current economic situation and how CEOs are tackling imminent threats to our prosperity.

• Why we need to “Elevate the Debate” to drive sustainable and meaningful dialogue to tackle the challenges and opportunities of today and tomorrow.

• The role of the Coalition for a Better Future in influencing government policy towards a cohesive long-term growth strategy.

• The significance of CEO engagement in fostering diversity, inclusion, and innovation.

Podcast Timestamps:

(00:00) - Challenges and Opportunities for Canadian business

(14:08) - Building a Coalition for the Future

(26:22) - Encouraging Civil Discourse and Positive Leadership

(32:07) - CEO Engagement in Diversity, Inclusion and Innovation

(41:29) - The Importance of Authentic Leadership

(46:44) - Embracing Lessons from our Past to Drive A Successful Future

Key Topics Discussed:

Business Council of Canada, Economic Growth, Cybersecurity, Coalition for a Better Future, Energy Transition, Innovation, Diversity and Inclusion, Authentic Leadership, Strategic Unity, Government Policy, Public-Private Sector Synergy, Corporate Social Responsibility.

More of Goldy:

As President and Chief Executive Officer of the Business Council of Canada (BCC), Goldy Hyder represents Canadian business leaders across the country and around the world. The BCC is a non-profit, non-partisan organization whose membership is comprised of more than 170 chief executives and entrepreneurs of Canada’s leading and largest companies. Mr. Hyder works directly with these leaders to develop and promote sensible public policy solutions in support of economic growth, including in the areas of the energy transition, innovation and industrial policy, cybersecurity, supply chain resilience, workforce development, and trade diversification. Mr. Hyder is a regular commentator in Canadian media on business, politics and leadership. He is also the host of the “Speaking of Business” podcast, which features interviews with Canadian innovators, entrepreneurs and business leaders.

LinkedIn: ⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/goldy-hyder-56813721/⁠ 

Mentions: Coalition for a Better Future: ⁠https://www.canadacoalition.ca/⁠ 

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Craig discusses his key learnings from the North American Business Summit that he recently attended. The summit brought together CEOs and business leaders from Canada, the US, and Mexico to discuss pressing issues in North American businesses.

First, it is essential to test our assumptions in today's fast-paced world. As things change rapidly, it is important to evaluate our beliefs and hypotheses to determine their validity and whether they serve us well. Continuous learning is crucial to update our thinking and remain open to new information and experiences.

Second, instead of taking an either-or approach, it is beneficial to look for opportunities that balance and integrate different priorities. This mindset allows for more compelling and valuable decision-making.

Third, there is an increasing need to listen to oneself and be aware of physiological, emotional and psychological data. Listening to others and engaging in collaborative conversations is essential for understanding different perspectives and making informed decisions, especially in complex situations.

The summit's overarching theme of "stronger together" highlights the significance of human connection and cooperation. Doing good and performing well are not competing priorities. Business leaders can achieve positive results while also making a positive impact on their communities.

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

This week Doug Contant joins Craig on the Do Good To Lead Well podcast. The two talk through the qualities that make up a resilient leader to build a strong foundation for success in times of crisis. Douglas R. Conant is an internationally renowned business leader, New York Times and Wall Street Journal bestselling author, keynote speaker, and social media influencer with over 40 years of leadership experience at world-class global companies. For the past 20 years of his leadership journey, he has honed his leadership craft at the most senior levels. In 2011, he founded ConantLeadership: a mission-driven community of leaders and learners who are championing leadership that works in the 21st century.

What You Will Learn:

1. How empathy plays into resilient leadership

2. Tips for building connection and camaraderie into your business's culture

3. How to cocreate a sense of purpose

4. Leading by listening

Mentions:

https://conantleadership.com/about/doug-conant/

Marilyn Gist is the bestselling author of The Extraordinary Power of Leader Humility. Alan Mulally, the legendary former CEO of Ford Motor Company and Boeing Commercial Airplanes, wrote the Foreword and contributed a guest chapter. Marilyn's career highlights include Professor Emeritus at Seattle University; full professor and academic administrator at University of Washington and Seattle University; Google Scholar lists her as the most cited scholar at Seattle University and she received more than 15,000 citations by other authors; led the design and development of SU’s Executive MBA Program, which was ranked as high as #11 in the US; she interviewed exceptional CEOs from Costco, Starbucks, Foot Locker, the Mayo Clinic and Alaska Airlines for her latest book; writing a terrific newsletter, "The Gist of It". In this episode, Marilyn speaks about humility in leadership, treating others with respect and fostering innovation.

Dr. Kim Cameron is the co-founder of the Center for Positive Organizations out of the University of Michigan as well as the William Russell Kelly Professor of Management and Organizations at the Ross School of Business. Dr. Cameron is recognized as the foremost expert on positive relational energy, which is generated by virtuous actions and can have a profound impact on an organization’s success and an individual’s professional and personal life. He was recently recognized as being among the top 10 scholars in the organizational sciences whose work has been most frequently downloaded from Google. Dr. Cameron joins Craig on this week’s episode to discuss his latest book, Positively Energizing Leadership: Virtuous Actions and Relationships That Create High Performance.

Could leadership rooted in empathy be the game-changer in today’s diverse, multi-generational workplaces? In this timely episode, I welcome the remarkable father-daughter team, James and Krista White, to explore the pressing topic of anti-racist leadership. In this enlightening discussion, the Whites share the powerful synergy behind their book, a fusion of CEO-level wisdom with a millennial’s fresh take on diversity, equity, and inclusion. The episode highlights how the journey towards a truly inclusive corporate culture involves confronting common pitfalls and embracing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion as non-negotiable elements that power a company’s heart and soul. James and Krista dissect the unfortunate tendency of sidelining DEI during tough times and advocate for hiring practices that celebrate cultural enhancement rather than mere fit. Our discussion brings to light how a strong DEI focus not only enriches company culture but also fosters innovation and retention, which are integral elements to any organization’s success. As we wrap up this rich dialogue, we examine the strategic roles that Chief Diversity Officers and middle managers play in shaping and maintaining a diverse environment.

What You’ll Learn:

• The inspiration behind James and Krista’s timely book

• Concrete strategies for cultivating empathy among leaders

• The influence of Gen Z on the corporate landscape

• Sustainable DEI practices

• Truly embracing the power of Chief Diversity Officers

• How middle managers can become catalysts for change

Podcast Timestamps:

(00:00) – An Introduction to Anti-Racist Leadership

(11:06) – Empathy: An Essential Building Block for Inclusive Cultures

(22:53) – Sustainable DEI Practices, Including Hiring for Cultural Enhancement, Not Fit

(33:47) – Why Chief Diversity Officers and Middle Managers Are Integral to Long-Term (DEI) Success

(48:31) – Call for Engagement: Be the Change We Wish to See in the World

Key Topics Discussed:

Anti-Racist Leadership, Empathy, Inclusive Workplaces, Gen Z, Corporate Culture, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, DEI, Hiring Practices, Cultural Enhancement, Chief Diversity Officers, Middle Managers, Sustainable Practices, Human Capital, Engagement, Community Interaction, Transformation, Inspiration

Is the traditional office becoming a thing of the past? In this episode, we sit down with Nick Bloom, Stanford professor and LinkedIn’s Top Voice on Remote Work, to uncover the transformative shifts in our work models that accelerated throughout the pandemic. With two decades of research behind him, Nick provides an in-depth look at how technology has revolutionized remote and hybrid work environments. We explore the rising popularity of hybrid work models, the slowdown of the return-to-office movement, and practical advice for executives and managers navigating this new terrain.

Discover how different organizations are uniquely adapting to remote work, from consulting firms to call centers. Nick shares valuable insights on how to balance flexibility with performance and the profound benefits of remote work. We dive into the importance of tailored approaches based on job nature and organizational needs, offering crucial recommendations for both startups and larger companies who are embracing or considering hybrid models. Furthermore, we discuss the challenges of managing hybrid and fully remote teams, and the impact of these models on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives.

We close out the episode discussing mental health, employee retention, and the economic reshaping due to the "donut effect.” Join us for an enlightening conversation and stay ahead of the curve in the evolving landscape of the future world.

What You’ll Learn:

• The balance between flexibility and performance

• How to tailor hybrid work for various roles and organizations

• The benefits of remote work that equate to an 8% pay raise

• Strategies for integrating successful remote work practices into your organization

• The crucial role of choice and flexibility for mental health

• Solving the mystery of remote onboarding

• The ongoing shifts in workforce dynamics and hiring practices

Podcast Timestamps:

(00:03) - Leading Remote and Hybrid Teams

(10:29) - The Future of Hybrid Work Arrangements

(17:04) - Remote Work Benefits and Considerations

(20:28) - Strategies for Remote Work Integration

(33:06) - Remote Work – Impacts on DEI and Productivity

(43:40) - Mental Health and Remote Onboarding

(52:00) – The Future of (Remote) Work

More of Nick:

Nick Bloom is a professor in the Department of Economics and, by courtesy, at the Stanford Graduate School of Business. He co-directs the Productivity, Innovation and Entrepreneurship program at the National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER) and is a fellow at both the Centre for Economic Performance and the Stanford Institute for Economic Policy Research. Bloom's research focuses on management practices, working with McKinsey & Company and Accenture to gather extensive data and conduct management experiments, and he has extensively studied the impacts of large uncertainty shocks on the U.S. economy. He lives on the Stanford campus with his wife and three children, maintaining a multi-lingual household influenced by his London roots and his Scottish wife.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-bloom-86b79510b/

Key Topics Discussed:

Remote Work, Hybrid Work, Nick Bloom, Future of Work, Technology Advancements, Managing Work,  Job Satisfaction, Employee Retention, Inclusion, Mental Health, Onboarding, Hiring Practices, Work Dynamics, Productivity, Flexibility, Connectivity

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

What’re the three most important skills a leader can possess? How can you prompt your organization to destigmatize failure? How do you embrace your imposter syndrome? In this episode, Heather Tulk answers these questions and more.

What You’ll Learn:

1. 3 traits of every successful leader and how to apply them

2. The scarcest asset all leaders possess

3. The secret to destigmatizing failure within your organization

4. Premortem vs postmortem visualization

5. The absence of fear as an authentic leader

6. The 3 P’s of contributing to your community: People, Planet and Profits

7. You're not there yet, but you're already enough mentality

Who is Heather Tulk?

Heather is an experienced CEO and Board Director accomplished in P&L management, business transformation, digital businesses, and leading through disruption. Heather recently joined Telus Business Solutions as their President of Commercial and Public Sector. Heather has received a number of industry awards, including being named to the Canada Diversity 50, Canada's Most Powerful Women's Top 100 through the Women's Executive Network and Canada's Top 40 under 40. Heather passionately believes in helping make communities better than we found them, and is involved in several causes for mental health, youth diversity and inclusion. 

Follow Heather:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heathertulk/?originalSubdomain=ca

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

What if embracing uncertainty could actually be the key to maximizing your potential and unlocking your greatest successes? Join us as we explore this fascinating idea with Professor Nathan Furr from INSEAD, a leading authority in strategy and innovation. We dive deep into his latest book, "The Upside of Uncertainty," and explore how stepping into the unknown can drive transformation. 

Learn how to build your resilience to navigate uncertainty through the metaphor of the "first aid cross." We cover the essentials: how to reframe situations, prepare in advance, take effective action, and sustain yourself through inevitable setbacks. Drawing from real-world examples, we discuss how great leaders turn challenges into opportunities and the importance of storytelling in framing uncertainty as a pathway to growth. Learn how practices that build our ambiguity muscle can make us more creative, adaptive, and less anxious in an uncertain world, with reframing as a critical starting point.

Finally, we tackle the emotional side of uncertainty, addressing common issues like imposter syndrome and self-doubt. Learn strategies to manage these feelings and how to align your actions with your core values. Nathan's personal stories and expert insights offer a comprehensive guide to understanding and navigating different types of risk, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness and emotional hygiene. This episode is filled with actionable tips to help you face uncertainty with confidence.

What You’ll Learn:

• The First Aid Cross: A metaphor for navigating uncertainty

• Framing and storytelling: tools for thriving in uncertainty

• Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

• All Risks Are Not Created Equal

• Aligning actions with core values

• Practical strategies for building resilience

Podcast Timestamps:

(00:00) - Mastering Self-Leadership Through Uncertainty

(09:50) - Building Resilience Through Uncertainty

(17:09) - Embracing Possibility in Uncertainty

(28:35) – How to Navigate Uncertainty With Confidence

(34:07) - Understanding Different Types of Risk

(47:35) – Fostering Emotional Hygiene Through Uncertainty

Key Topics Discussed:

Positive Leadership, Navigating Uncertainty, Personal and Professional Growth, Transformation, Innovation, Strategy, Resilience, Possibility, Framing, Storytelling, Imposter Syndrome, Overcoming Self-Doubt, Managing Risk, Dealing with Anxiety, Core Values, Emotional Hygiene, Self-Care, Compassion

More of Nathan:

Nathan Furr is a professor of strategy and innovation at INSEAD in Paris. Professor Furr earned his PhD from Stanford University and studies how to get ideas, test ideas, and create a culture of innovation. Nathan co-wrote The Innovator's Method: Bringing the Lean Start-up into Your Organization with Jeff Dyer, and has more recently published The Upside of Uncertainty: A Guide to Finding Possibility in the Unknown with his wife, Susannah Harmon Furr. He has published broadly in Harvard Business Review, Sloan Management Review, Forbes, Inc., and several different academic journals. He’s also been nominated for the Thinker's 50 Innovation Award.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathan-furr-044852/

Mentions:

The Upside of Uncertainty: A Guide to Finding Possibility in the Unknown by Nathan Furr and Susannah Harmon Furr https://www.amazon.ca/Upside-Uncertainty-Guide-Finding-Possibility/dp/1647823013 

The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck https://www.amazon.com/Grapes-Wrath-John-Steinbeck/dp/0143039431 

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Why should you put social good at the center of your organization? How do you choose the right mentors? In this episode, Tracy Folkes Hanson answers these questions and more.

What You’ll Learn:

1. Why you should put social good at the forefront of your career

2. How to measure your social good

3. How to explore you “why” deeper than ever

4. “We have to live by our values in order to deliver them.”

5. Taking care of your mental health will help you increase your impact

6. Ongoing learning, from a variety of mentors, will help you lead

7. How to find the mentors you need

8. Employing tech to create a healthy culture

Who is Tracy?

Tracy Folkes Hanson has been the president and CEO of Canadian Society of Association Executive since 2017. Prior to this, she has held senior positions in organizations such as the Ontario Chamber of Commerce, MasterCard International, Kinark Child & Family Services, and The Arthritis Society. In 2010, Tracy was elected to the Whitby Town Council. All of this experience allows her to bring her all to her position at the CSAE where she focuses on positive engagement in leadership.

Follow Tracy:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracyfolkeshanson/ 

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Dr. Jean Latting, an esteemed figure in the realm of inclusive leadership, joins our latest episode with her profound journey from the segregated South to becoming a beacon of unity and understanding. Her story is a testament to the transformative power of thoughts and words, shaped by her family and the civil rights movements. Dr. Latting's experiences in a racially integrated boarding school informed her vision for successful multiculturalism, and her insights offer a compelling blueprint for nurturing inclusion in any environment.

We unpack the elements of conscious leadership as we explore what it means to be attuned to diverse inputs and organizational dynamics. Dr. Latting illustrates the ripple effect of our choices with engaging examples of leaders fostering inclusivity by engaging with all organizational levels. This episode highlights the shared responsibility to project positive energy and drive conscious change, drawing attention to the importance of role modeling and the impact of our interactions on creating inclusive environments.

Our conversation closes with practical strategies for addressing resistance to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, including the importance of authenticity and constructive communication. Tune in for an episode rich with actionable insights and inspiration for a more inclusive world.

What You’ll Learn:

• The power of conscious leadership and its impact on fostering inclusivity.

• How being attuned to diverse inputs can drive organizational success.

• Strategies for navigating resistance in DEI efforts.

• Explore the importance of role modeling and the ripple effect of positive energy in creating inclusive environments.

• Obtain actionable insights focusing on managing our mindset and constructive communication.

Podcast Timestamps:

(00:00) - What is Conscious Leadership?

(13:12) - Inclusive Leadership is Conscious Leadership

(21:58) - Building Conscious Change Through Self- and Other-Awareness

(28:43) - Understanding Resistance and the Psychology of Change

(47:15) - Fostering Constructive Conversations

More of Jean:

Jean Latting, an expert in inclusive leadership and conscious change, has dedicated over 20 years to consulting and teaching in both private and public sectors. As President of Leading Consciously and Professor Emeritus at the University of Houston, Jean empowers leaders and organizations to create transformative, inclusive environments where diversity thrives and individuals feel valued. Recognized for her contributions, she received an Outstanding Faculty Award from the University of Houston Alumni Association and has an endowment established in her honor by a Houston philanthropist. Jean's book, Conscious Change: How to Navigate Differences and Foster Inclusion in Everyday Relationships, has garnered praise for its timely insights and practical guidance, reflecting her commitment to fostering equity through human connection and conscious action.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeanlattingconsultant/

Mentions: 

Reframing Change: How to Deal with Workplace Dynamics, Influence Others, and Bring People Together to Initiate Positive Change by Jean Kantambu Latting and V. Jean Ramsey

Conscious Change: How to Navigate Differences and Foster Inclusion in Everyday Relationships by Jean Kantambu Latting

Key Topics Discussed:

Positive Leadership, Conscious Leadership, Inclusive Leadership, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Multiculturalism, Positive Energy, Role Modeling, Organizational Dynamics, Cognitive Dissonance, Managing Bias, Fostering Open Dialogue, Delivering Feedback, Promoting Change, Overcoming Resistance, Personal Growth, Constructive Communication, Authentic Inclusion, CEO Success

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Mental health has been at the forefront of the workplace culture discussion the last few years and managing anxiety and stress is a top priority among the generation entering the workforce. The more we talk about it the more we can find solutions. Chester Elton joins Do Good To Lead Well this week to share his perspective on mental health practices and to ultimately normalize the conversation in the workplace. When you're in that dark place by yourself, it is dangerous. Reach out and find an ally. You are never alone. Chester Elton is the #4 leadership expert in the world and #2 among the world's top organizational culture experts. He brings world-class energy, insight, and passion to the conversation while maintaining a mindset of empathy and gratitude. Chester Elton has spent two decades helping clients engage their employees to execute on strategy, vision, and values. In his provocative and inspiring speeches, the #1 bestselling leadership author provides real solutions to leaders looking to manage change, drive innovation, and lead a multi-generational workforce. Elton’s work is supported by research with more than 1 million working adults, revealing the proven secrets behind high-performance cultures and teams.

What You Will Learn:

1. Empathy is the foundational piece to leadership

2. How to work together as a team to lift each other up

3. Over $60B in productivity is lost in America alone if anxiety and mental health is not discussed in the workplace

4. Navigating and protecting a strong culture in a remote work environment and how to improve if needed

5. How do we exhibit positive leadership and positive organizations

6. Leading with gratitude

Mentions:

https://chesterelton.com

Today, we are joined by Joe Davis, Managing Director and Senior Partner at the Boston Consulting Group, who has navigated his remarkable career from a humble start as a sales rep at Procter & Gamble to steering BCG North America through the turbulent waters of the COVID-19 pandemic. Joe shares insights from his latest book, "The Generous Leader," and discusses how fostering positive cultures and championing people has shaped his leadership style, aligning perfectly with our "Do Good to Lead Well" philosophy.

Joe Davis' journey is more than just a career path; it's a testament to the power of honesty and openness in leadership. He walks us through instances of profound vulnerability, highlighting how saying "I don't know" can build trust and authenticity within teams. Joe challenges traditional leadership paradigms, presenting a compelling case for the transformative power of generous leadership.

From the importance of asking questions to fostering inclusive environments, Joe shines a light on the importance of leading with heart and authenticity. We explore how simple gestures of recognition can strengthen team bonds and promote an inclusive atmosphere. With insights from industry titans and practical advice for leaders at all levels, this episode is filled with actionable insights for anyone looking to take their leadership to the next level.

What You’ll Learn:

• The essence of generous leadership

• The power of asking over telling

• The significance of vulnerability during challenging times

• The impact of small gestures of recognition

• Strategies for fostering an inclusive and diverse work environment

Podcast Timestamps:

(00:00) – The Journey to Generous Leader

(12:13) – What Is A Generous Leadership?

(15:36) - The Power of Generous Leadership

(20:43) - Effective Questioning is the Cornerstone of Effective Leadership

(28:46) – Vulnerability in Generous Leadership

(36:20) - Inclusive Leadership Through Action

(44:28) - Empathy and Perspective-Taking

Key Topics Discussed:

Positive Leadership, Transformational Leadership, Vulnerability, Empathy, Questioning, Leading Teams, Boston Consulting Group, The Generous Leader, Human Connections, Inclusive Work Environment, Authenticity, Generosity, Diversity and Inclusion, Role Modeling, Perspective-Taking, Active Listening, Navigating Biases, Managing A Diverse Workforce

More of Joe: Joe Davis is a Managing Director and Senior Partner at Boston Consulting Group (BCG), where he chairs BCG's Center for Inclusion and Equity and is the North America Regional Chair Emeritus. Since joining BCG in 1988, Joe has held various leadership roles, including co-founding the Washington, DC office and launching BCG’s Federal Public Sector practice during the 2008 banking crisis. His public sector work earned him recognition as one of Consulting Magazine’s Top 25 Consultants in 2011. Joe also led BCG’s West Coast, where he played a key role in bringing Super Bowl 50 to San Francisco. In addition to his BCG responsibilities, he serves as Vice Chairman of B Capital Group. Before BCG, Joe worked at Procter & Gamble. He holds a BA in Economics from Whitman College and an MBA from Harvard Business School. Joe has been married to his spouse, Sarah, for over 35 years and has four children.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joedavis1313/

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

This is the inspiring story of Dan Turner, CEO of Xperigo, a company that has been recognized multiple times as being one of Canada’s Most Admired Corporate Cultures. In the first part of this special two- part series, we unpack Dan’s improbable journey from tow truck driver to CEO. It shines a light on the grit, gumption, and the audacious goals that can lead any determined individual from the roadside to the corner office. Dan opens up about the role models that sparked his ambition and the confidence that grew from each small win, providing a blueprint for anyone ready to take the wheel of their career and steer it towards success.

Dan and I dig into the parallels between the leadership qualities forged in the competitive fires of high school sports and how those skills translate seamlessly into guiding teams in a business setting. This episode is a playbook for dreaming big, crafting a winning strategy, and maintaining momentum in the darkest times. Together, we dissect the attributes that propel an individual from the starting line to the finish line, emphasizing the resilience that turns setbacks into setups for greater achievements.

We wrap up our conversation with a candid look at the risks that lead to the greatest rewards and immerse ourselves in how to navigate the choppy waters of leadership during crisis. Our exchange sheds light on the value of authenticity, adaptability and the strength found in teamwork. Dan’s journey is not just a testament to his own success, but a beacon for those yearning to unleash their potential and make the climb from the ground floor to the C-suite.

What You’ll Learn:

• The power of role models

• Why setting small goals is key to achieving big wins

• The mindset needed to overcome self-doubt and set audacious goals

• The role confidence plays in taking risks

• How to celebrate small victories and build unshakable confidence

• The parallels between sports leadership and building a peak performance company

• The importance of adaptability and authenticity in navigating a company through challenging times

Podcast Timestamps:

(00:00) - From Tow Truck Driver to CEO

(08:39) - Celebrating Wins and Building Confidence

(15:18) - Overcoming Setbacks and Finding Motivation

(20:44) - The Power of Leadership and Teamwork

(30:29) - Setting and Achieving Big, Hairy, Audacious Goals (BHAGs)

(39:58) - Taking Big Chances for Big Success

(48:24) – Navigating Crisis Leadership

(52:30) - Embracing Authentic Leadership

More of Dan:

Dan Turner is the esteemed President and CEO of Xperigo, a premier provider of customer experience management services in the automotive industry. With over three decades of experience, Dan has honed his skills in strategic planning, business development, and fostering invaluable partnerships. Under his visionary leadership, Xperigo has flourished, earning accolades such as Shell Mobility Partner of the Year and Canada's Most Admired Corporate Culture award, a remarkable achievement reflective of Dan's commitment to excellence. Beyond his professional prowess, Dan is revered for his dedication to cultivating a workplace culture marked by collaboration, empowerment, and continuous improvement, making Xperigo a standout choice for top talent and industry recognition.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/turnerdan/?originalSubdomain=ca

Key Topics Discussed:

CEO Mindset, Success, Self-Belief, Grit, Teamwork, Big Goals, Self-Motivation, Navigating Setbacks, Authentic Leadership, Adaptability, Empowerment, Collaboration, Confidence, Resilience, Growth, Overcome Obstacles

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

What happens when an organization fails to define its core values, allowing them to become mere decorative words on a wall rather than the guiding principles they are meant to be? Join me as I draw inspiration from my recent conversation with Garry Ridge, the Chairman Emeritus and former CEO of the iconic WD-40 Company. 

While the terms are often used interchangeably, I talk about the crucial distinction between values and beliefs and use real-world scenarios where lack of clarity leads to confusion and inconsistency. Together, we'll explore how to translate values into actionable behaviors that serve as anchors and navigational compasses for individuals and teams alike. Last but not least, we examine why organizations benefit from having a values hierarchy. 

What You’ll Learn:

• How to transform organizational values into actionable strategies.

• The impact of core values on effective decision-making.

• Ways to enhance integrity within the organization.

• Strategies to improve team cohesion through shared values.

• The power of a values hierarchy.

Podcast Timestamps:

(00:00) The Power of Organizational Values

(12:37) Prioritizing Organizational Values for Clarity

(19:30) Maximizing Values Alignment: The Role of Intention

Key Topics Discussed:

Organizational Values, Translating Values Into Action Garry Ridge, WD-40 Company, Prioritizing Values, Maximizing Clarity, Ensuring Alignment, Values-Based Decision-Making, Increasing Trust, Creating A Culture of Integrity, Building Cohesion, Doing the Right Thing, Fostering Empowerment, Positive Team Dynamics, CEO Success

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

We hear the word “gaslight” a lot… but what does that mean and what does it look like? How can we avoid being gaslighted? And how can we help others when they’re being manipulated? In this episode, Robin Stern answers these questions and more.

What You’ll Learn:

1. What is (and is not) gaslighting, and how to recognize it.

2. How gaslighting is used in the workplace.

3. Who can fall victim to gaslighting.

4. How to help friends who are being gaslighted.

5. How to react when you notice you are being gaslighted.

Who is Robin?

Dr. Stern is the co-founder and associate director for the Yale Center for Emotional Intelligence, and an associate research scientist at the Child Study Center at Yale. She's a licensed psychoanalyst with 30 years of experience treating individuals, couples, and families. She's the author of The Gaslight Effect: How to Spot and Survive the Hidden Manipulation Others Use To Control Your Life. Dr. Stern has traveled widely to lecture on emotional intelligence, women in leadership, and on relational bullying. She's also the host of the Gaslight Effect podcast, which teaches listeners about the depths the term can take. She interviews experts and hears personal experiences from guests about all aspects of gaslighting, from the unintentional, the role it plays in marriages, in divorce, and how good parenting can be gaslighting.

Mentions:

The Gaslight Effect: How to Spot and Survive the Hidden Manipulation Others Use To Control Your Life: https://www.amazon.ca/Gaslight-Effect-Survive-Manipulation-Control-ebook/dp/B000QCQ8X0

The Gaslight Effect Recovery Guide: Your Personal Journey Toward Healing from Emotional Abuse: https://www.amazon.ca/Gaslight-Effect-Recovery-Guide-Emotional/dp/0593236270 

Follow Robin:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/robin-stern-220b403a/

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

This week's guest, Jon Clifton, is CEO of Gallup, the global analytics and advice firm. Mr. Clifton's mission is to help organizations create thriving workplaces; put 1 billion people in touch with their strengths; and help 8 billion citizens be heard on their most pressing issues through the Gallup World Poll, a 100-year initiative spanning over 150 countries. He previously served as Global Managing Partner of the company's worldwide consulting group, advising global leaders on how their organizations and countries can thrive using behavioral economics and analytics-based insights. In this episode, Craig and Jon discuss the rise in global unhappiness, how to measure that happiness and the complexity of the human mind.

Surprise! The podcast is one year old. To celebrate, we decided to do something a little different today. In episode 50, Craig posted a sneak peak into his CEO Mastermind forum where Dr. Robert Waldinger spoke about his long running scientific study into human happiness. In this episode, Craig recaps his favorite findings from the past year of interviewing some of the most successful CEOs in the world.

What You’ll Learn:

1. Approach life like a scientist: Embrace scientific investigation, update hypotheses daily, and be open to the possibility of being wrong.

2. Integrity and values-based leadership: Rank order values to handle conflicts, lead with authenticity, and communicate values openly.

3. Humility and vulnerability: These traits are not weaknesses but strengths in effective leadership. Constantly learn, unlearn, and relearn.

4. The power of reframing: View problems as opportunities, be mindful of mindset and thought patterns, and be open to different perspectives.

5. People-first philosophy: Successful leadership revolves around building strong relationships, understanding and engaging with people effectively.

6. Relationships are crucial: They are foundational to personal and professional fulfillment and play a significant role in overall wellbeing and happiness.

Mentions:

Ozan Varol - Author of "Think Like a Rocket Scientist"

Ed Hess - Author of "Hyper Learning Humility is the New Smart" and "Own Your Work Journey"

Daniel Pink - Author

Gary Ridge - Former CEO and Chairman of WD 40 Company

Iggy Domagalsk i- CEO of Wage X

Kevin Ford - CEO of the Cailan Group

Alim Somani - Managing Director of Hatch Digital

Howard Behar - Starbucks executive who championed the people-first philosophy

Doug Conant - Former CEO of Campbell Soup Company

Kim Furlong - CEO of the Canadian Venture Capital and Private Equity Association (CVCAC)

Omar Salahmey - Former CEO of Bonfire Interactive, current co-founder and COO of CYA

Michael Garrity - CEO of FinanceIt

Kathryn Temblay - CEO of Altus Recruitment and Altus Technology

Tracey Folks Hansen - CEO of the Canadian Society of Association Executives (CSAE)

Yousry Bissada - CEO of Home Capital Group

Dr. Robert Waldinger - Leading the longest scientific study out of Harvard into human happiness

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Dr. Barry Schwartz is a Visiting Professor at the Haas School of Management at Berkeley. He is a top TED speaker, with 5 different talks, which have reached an audience of over 25 million views. He has written numerous books, including The Paradox of Choice, Practical Wisdom, and Why We Work. In this episode, Craig speaks with Dr. Schwartz about the psychology of human decision-making and how we can learn to make the right choices, at the right times, and for the right reasons. Please listen to this fascinating conversation with one of the most highly respected experts on human behaviour in the world!

Can your thoughts truly influence your physical health? Listen as we unravel this intriguing question with pioneering psychologist and Harvard professor Ellen Langer, whose insights on mindfulness and mind-body unity challenge traditional beliefs. Ellen shares personal anecdotes and research from her book, "Mindful Body: Thinking Our Way to Chronic Health," inviting us to reconsider how our mindset impacts well-being. From transforming cancer battles to redefining work as exercise, Ellen reveals how shifting perceptions can lead to remarkable health benefits.

Ellen’s insights extend beyond personal health, touching on the broader implications of mindfulness in relationships, leadership, and innovation. Understand how recognizing and cultivating positive traits can transform interactions and reduce judgment. Through stories about chambermaids and wound healing, we explore the untapped potential of our minds and learn practical tips for integrating mindfulness into everyday life. Ellen highlights the power of flexibility and awareness, encouraging us to embrace uncertainty and open-mindedness to boost creativity and adaptability.

We close our conversation by exploring the exciting world of mindful living, where mistakes become opportunities and empathy deepens our understanding of others. Ellen Langer's stories and studies illuminate the path to a more present, attentive mindset, whether in parenting, professional settings, or personal interactions. This episode offers valuable strategies to unlock greater creativity, adaptability, and well-being, challenging you to rethink your approach to health, relationships, and leadership. Whether you're new to mindfulness or a seasoned practitioner, Ellen’s insights promise to inspire and transform your perspective.

What You’ll Learn:

• The transformative power of mindfulness on health and well-being.

• Captivating stories and groundbreaking research that reveal the unity of mind and body.

• How shifting our mindset can profoundly impact our lives.

• The power of empathy in parenting and beyond.

• The benefits of embracing uncertainty.

• How keenly noticing the new can enhance personal and professional growth.

Podcast Timestamps:

(00:00) - Mind-Body Unity and Well-Being

(07:28) - The Power of Mindful Living

(22:40) - Recognizing and Cultivating Positive Traits

(27:57) - Benefits of Mindful Leadership and Innovation

(39:28) - Embracing Mistakes and Practicing Mindful Innovation

(46:30) - Understanding Empathy and Mindful Parenting

(54:02) – Final Thoughts on the (Surprising) Science of Being Mindful

More of Ellen:

Dr. Ellen Langer, Ph.D., is a renowned social psychologist and Harvard’s first tenured woman in psychology. Known as the “mother of mindfulness,” she has authored 12 books, including The Mindful Body (2023). Her groundbreaking research on mindfulness, aging, and decision-making has earned over 200 publications and numerous awards. Based in Cambridge, Massachusetts, she continues to inspire new perspectives on health and creativity.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ellenjlanger/

Key Topics Discussed:

Positive Leadership, Mindfulness, Mind-Body Connection, Mindful Living, Mindful Leadership, Mindful Communication, Well-Being, Empathy, Resilience, Positive Change, Adaptability, Mindful Relationships, Mindful Health, Mindful Potential, Personal Transformation, CEO Success

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Listen into this special episode where I join The Rising Leader podcast with host Mark Silverman. I had the pleasure of welcoming Mark to the Do Good to Lead Well podcast and he decided to turn the tables on me.

During our conversation, we explore the transformative impact of positive leadership in a VUCA world and challenge the misconception that doing good and achieving success are mutually exclusive. Together, we examine how intentional leadership practices can harmonize operational efficiency while fostering meaningful relationships. By adopting a mindset of integration over compromise, leaders can create a more fulfilling personal and professional experience.

Our conversation takes a deep dive into the powerful role of mindset in shaping our experiences. We discuss the influential concepts of Carol Dweck’s growth versus fixed mindsets, emphasizing that changing our perspective can unlock new opportunities and choices. The conversation moves on to the difficulties of receiving feedback, even for the most accomplished individuals, and how proactively seeking feedback can bolster resilience. We also highlight how self-awareness and openness to growth can make challenging feedback less daunting and more constructive, even when it touches upon our very identity.

In our final segment, we acknowledge the importance of values-based leadership. When there is a perceived disconnect between stated values and actions, there are tremendous consequences. Being true to our values is crucial, particularly when the going gets tough. Please join us to explore the potential of positive leadership to prompt significant and lasting change that benefits all.

What You’ll Learn:

• Discover the transformative power of positive leadership and why doing good and achieving success aren't mutually exclusive.

• Learn how adopting a growth mindset can unlock new opportunities.

• Why proactively seeking feedback is key to leadership development.

• Strategies for staying true to one's values under pressure.

• Ways to integrate operational efficiency with building meaningful relationships.

• Techniques to cultivate individual and organizational resilience.

• What is authentic leadership?

Podcast Timestamps:

(00:04) - Positive Leadership in a VUCA World

(09:44) - Mastering our Mindset: Receiving Feedback

(13:38) – Change Your Perspective, Change Your World

(22:15) – The Power of Authentic Leadership

More of Mark:

Mark J. Silverman transitioned from a highly successful career in technology, where he generated over $90 million in sales for fast-growing startups, to becoming a sought-after executive coach and speaker. For the past decade, Mark has coached CEOs, senior leaders, and rising high achievers, helping them harness their resources and teams for greater impact while cultivating sustainable success across all areas of their lives. He is the author of The Rising Leader Handbook: Turning High Achievers Into Effective Leaders and Only 10s 2.0: Confront Your To-do List, Transform Your Life, with the latter selling over 75,000 copies. Mark also hosts The Rising Leader Podcast and is working on his third book, which shares the same title.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark22102/

Mentions:

The Rising Leader Handbook: Turning High Achievers Into Effective Leaders by Mark Silverman

Only 10s 2.0: Confront Your To-do List, Transform Your Life by Mark Silverman

The Rising Leader Podcast

Key Topics Discussed:

Positive Leadership, VUCA World, Executive Coaching, Transformative Impact, Do Good to Lead Well, Intentional Leadership, Mastering our Mindset, Growth Mindset, Fixed Mindset, Gaining Perspective, Giving and Receiving Feedback, Maximizing Resilience, Increasing Self-Awareness, Openness to Growth, Values-Based Leadership, Leading with Integrity, 360-Degree Feedback, CEO Success

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Ever wonder what it takes to create a company culture that not only endures but thrives? Unlock the secrets as Dan Turner, the visionary CEO of Xperigo, pulls back the curtain on fostering a workplace where Mondays are the new Fridays. Throughout our enlightening conversation, Dan shares the ins and outs of nurturing core values that resonate at every level of the organization. He takes us on a tour from the early days of shaping Xperigo’s cultural identity to the present, where recognition systems and performance reviews are steeped in core values and principles. It’s a masterclass in making every employee an indispensable part of the company’s cultural journey.

The episode is filled with strategies for authentically engaging with your team, from heartfelt meet and greets with new hires to championing a culture of support and recognition that turns workplace challenges into opportunities. 

As we cast our gaze to the horizon, Dan reflects on the monumental shift in leadership and corporate ethos over the recent decade. The conversation turns to how the pandemic has catalyzed a departure from archaic command-and-control models towards embracing a more empathetic and trust-centric leadership style. Dan’s experiences and forward-thinking exemplify how a culture of care and authenticity doesn’t just elevate a business—it elevates everyone who comes into contact with it; both inside and outside of the organization. Join us and discover how these cultural shifts can lead to a future where business success and personal fulfillment are not mutually exclusive but interwoven threads of the same fabric.

What You’ll Learn:

• The Essence of a Purpose-Driven Culture

• Practical Steps to Embedding Purpose

• Creating Recognition Systems that Reinforce Core Values

• Consistent Communication: The Key to Community Building

• Culture Drives Peak Performance

• How to Lead with Authenticity and Vulnerability

• Sustaining Culture Wherever You Are

• Embracing Change and Continuous Learning

Podcast Timestamps:

(00:00) The Secrets of an Award-Winning Culture – Practical Insights to Drive Exceptional Engagement

(11:27) Never Stop Learning – The Role of Continuous Improvement to Sustain Excellence.

(20:37) The Power of Employee Feedback

(25:13) Vulnerability and Authenticity – A Dynamic Duo for Leadership Success

(27:51) Nice Guys Don’t Finish Last in Business – They Win the Race

(34:47) How Far Can We Take This? Keep Pushing to Challenge Yourself and Your Team

More of Dan:

Dan Turner is the esteemed President and CEO of Xperigo, a premier provider of customer experience management services in the automotive industry. With over three decades of experience, Dan has honed his skills in strategic planning, business development, and fostering invaluable partnerships. Under his visionary leadership, Xperigo has flourished, earning accolades such as Shell Mobility Partner of the Year and Canada's Most Admired Corporate Culture award, a remarkable achievement reflective of Dan's commitment to excellence. Beyond his professional prowess, Dan is revered for his dedication to cultivating a workplace culture marked by collaboration, empowerment, and continuous improvement, making Xperigo a standout choice for top talent and industry recognition.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/turnerdan/?originalSubdomain=ca

Key Topics Discussed

Purpose-Driven Culture, Resilience, Employee Recognition, Award-Winning Corporate Culture, Leadership, Empathy, Trust, Fostering Employee Voice, The Power of Vulnerability, Caring Culture

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

How do you establish a positive work culture? Where does an organization’s values arise from? In this episode, Garry answers these questions and more.

What You’ll Learn:

1. The Petri dish analogy of growing culture at your company

2. Addressing toxic behavior from high performers

3. Five lessons from tribal communities

4. Identifying if you’re an accidental soul sucking CEO

5. Replacing your managers with coaches

6. Defining your organization’s values and distributing authority

7. The three most important words to learn in your life are I don’t know

8. Flying through turbulence as the captain of the plane

9. What constitutes accountability and how to command it as a leader

10. Taking the Maniac Pledge

Who is Garry Ridge?

Garry Ridge is the Chairman Emeritus at the WD-40 Company. Under his leadership, WD-40 Company grew their market cap from $250 million to nearly $2.5 billion. He's also a bestselling author and adjunct professor at the University of San Diego, where he teaches the principles and practices of corporate culture and the master of science and executive leadership. He further delves into these principles in his three books: The Unexpected Learning Moment: Lessons in Leading a Thriving Culture through Lockdown 2020, Tribe Culture: How it Shaped WD-40 Company, and the co-authored, Helping People Win at Work: A Business Philosophy called Don’t Mark My Paper, Help Me Get an A. He's been named one of the top 10 most admired CEOs in the world by Inc. Magazine. Simon Sinek has called him Igniter of the Year, Global Gurus in 2021. Now, Garry is busy writing a new book called Any Dumb Ass Can Do It.

Mentions:

Helping People Win at Work: A Business Philosophy called Don’t Mark My Paper, Help Me Get an A: https://www.amazon.com/Helping-People-Win-Work-Philosophy/dp/0137011717/ref=sr_1_2?qid=1684957917&refinements=p_27%3AGarry+Ridge&s=books&sr=1-2

Tribe Culture: How it Shaped WD-40 Company: https://www.amazon.com/TRIBE-CULTURE-Shaped-WD-40-Company-ebook/dp/B08DJBZKDP/ref=sr_1_3?qid=1684957917&refinements=p_27%3AGarry+Ridge&s=books&sr=1-3

The Unexpected Learning Moment: Lessons in Leading a Thriving Culture through Lockdown 2020: https://www.amazon.com/UNEXPECTED-LEARNING-MOMENT-Thriving-Lockdown-ebook/dp/B09649CDTM/ref=sr_1_4?qid=1684957917&refinements=p_27%3AGarry+Ridge&s=books&sr=1-4

Follow Garry:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garryridge/

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

In leadership, how does the concept of humility relate to establishing strong relationships, asserting boundaries, and empathizing with your team to drive success within your organization? In this conversation, Daryl Van Tongeren answers these questions and more.

What You’ll Learn:

1. Why humility is a key feature in helping relationships and innovation thrive

2. How to identify and avoid falling into the traps of narcissism

3. How to communicate your boundaries

4. Gender differences within humility

5. A 360 approach to seeking out feedback and avoiding cognitive bias

6. How to use empathy to think about the needs of others and establish a humble foundation

7. Modeling humility to establish non-contingent love as a parent

Who is Daryl Van Tongeren?

Daryl Van Tongeren is an associate professor of psychology at Hope College. He’s published over 200 scholarly articles. His research focuses on the social motivation for meaning and its relation to virtues and morality including topics regarding humility, forgiveness, and wellbeing.

Mentions:

Humble: Free Yourself from the Traps of a Narcissistic World: https://www.darylvantongeren.com/books

Follow Daryl:

Website: https://www.darylvantongeren.com/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/drvantongeren?ref_src=twsrc%5Egoogle%7Ctwcamp%5Eserp%7Ctwgr%5Eauthor

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Can failure be the secret ingredient to our success? As we stand on the brink of a new year, it's time to rethink how we perceive failure. Contrary to the traditional view of setbacks as purely negative, this episode unpacks the transformative concept of "failing well," inspired by Amy Edmondson's groundbreaking book, "The Right Kind of Wrong." We dissect failures into three categories: preventable, complex, and intelligent. Understanding these distinctions not only heightens our resilience but also enhances our capacity for growth, both personally and professionally. Through this lens, we discuss the importance of intelligent failure, where venturing into uncharted territories becomes a fertile ground for innovation and learning.

As we prepare for 2025, the challenge is to embrace failure as a driving force for growth. By adopting acronyms like "First Attempt In Learning" and "From Action, I Learn," we emphasize the significance of learning through doing and experimenting. Rather than waiting for unattainable perfection, we learn valuable lessons through action and can use this feedback as a pivotal and far more accurate tool for refinement as opposed to reflection alone. With this mindset, we transform failures into valuable insights, enabling us to stretch our capabilities, refine our strategies, and ultimately, achieve a more enriching and fruitful year ahead. Let’s get started!

What You’ll Learn:

• Why our unhealthy relationship with failure holds us back.

• Embracing intelligent failures as a catalyst for growth.

• F.A.I.L. forward to achieve your goals. 

• How to adopt a growth mindset for failure.

• The importance of learning through action and experimentation

Podcast Timestamps:

(00:00) - What is Your Relationship with Failure?

(04:20) - Not All Failures Are Created Equal

(08:01) - Embracing Intelligent Failures for Innovation

(19:06) – Looking Forward to 2025

Key Topics Discussed:

Positive Leadership, Dealing with Failure, Achieving Success, Pursuing Goals, Amy Edmondson, Preventable Failures, Complex Failures, Intelligent Failures, Continuous Learning, Growth Mindset, Embracing Innovation, Minimum Viable Product, Feedback Through Action, Building Resilience, Insight Through Action, Embracing Challenges, Capitalizing on Opportunities, CEO Success

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Mentions:
Right Kind of Wrong: The Science of Failing Well by Amy Edmondson

Today you’ll meet the visionary, Jan Ryde, a remarkable CEO, whose leadership has catapulted Hästens’ growth by an astounding 50,000%. Yes, you read that right! His unique philosophy explores how love serves as the foundation for Hästens’ entire organization, from its approach to craftsmanship to the way employees interact. We take you behind the scenes of Hästens, a 170-year-old family-owned business renowned for crafting the world's highest-quality beds and mattresses. Unlike the noisy, dusty image you might have, Hästens’ factory exudes serenity, calmness, and a deep sense of connection. So what makes them different? Hästens’ values and beliefs are authentically embodied by its people and leadership, reinforcing the philosophy outlined in Jan Ryde's upcoming book, When Business is Love. Hear Craig’s reaction to Jan’s question he proposed, "what makes you awesome?" Spoiler, it's not just about strengths but a deeper level of emotional engagement. Stay tuned for the full episode in January 2024, where we explore these concepts in even greater depth…

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

When it comes to driving successful projects across the finish line, how can leaders ensure their team is motivated and equipped? In this episode, Clint Padgett answers this question and more.

What You’ll Learn:

1. The three steps along the worry curve

2. How to make a plan that creates commitment and accountability

3. The difference between communication and conversation

4. How to work and hire effectively in a remote environment 

5. The key ingredients of management by commitment

Who is Clint?

Clint Padgett is the CEO and President of Project Success Incorporated, where he helps leaders and their team implement repeatable, sustainable strategies to deliver high-stakes projects on time, on target. As a ForbesBooks featured author, his first book, The Project Success Method, offers a unique and effective methodology for planning, managing, and closing out projects on time and within budget. In his second book, How Teams Triumph: Managing By Commitment, he provides a blueprint for building strong foundations for cross-functional teams through conversation and commitment.

Mentions:

The Project Success Method: https://www.amazon.com/Project-Success-Method-Achieving-Performance/dp/0470455837

How Teams Triumph: Managing By Commitment: https://books.forbes.com/books/how-teams-triumph-managing-by-commitment/

Follow Clint:

Website: https://projectsuccess.com/

Website: https://clintonmpadgett.com/

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

What if the key to navigating today's whirlwind of chaos and uncertainty lies in four universal qualities? As we journey through Gallup's Global Leadership Report, we unpack what followers worldwide are desperately seeking from their leaders. This episode shines a spotlight on how authentic leadership can serve as an anchor in turbulent times, and why empathy and compassion are becoming non-negotiable in an increasingly AI-driven world.

Hope, identified as the most pressing need, is dissected through real-world examples, illustrating its power to inspire resilience and forward-thinking. Join us in reflecting on these qualities and learn how embracing them can foster environments of stability and growth, paving the path for a brighter future for everyone.

What You’ll Learn:

• Real-world examples of leadership during turbulent times.

• The critical role of trust and how to nurture it.

• How hope can drive motivation and resilience.

• Practical tips to integrate the four needs of followership into your daily leadership.

Key Topics Discussed:

Positive Leadership, Global Leadership Report, Gallup, Stability, Compassion, Trust, Hope, Authentic Leadership, Empathy, Resilience, Managing Disruption, Stephen M.R. Covey, Human Connection, A.I., Personal Growth, Evidence-Informed Leadership, CEO Success

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

A trusted advisor to governments, associations and corporations, Kim Furlong brings people together to enhance value and arrive at win/win scenarios for all. As CEO of Canada’s Venture Capital & Private Equity Association (CVCA), she advocates on behalf of the industry to ensure sound public policy and encourage a favorable environment for investment. Kim offers a unique combination of government, corporate and trade association experience from both sides of the table. A respected corporate leader, she brings with her an impressive network of national and international business leaders, diplomats, politicians and political staff across all major political parties both federally and provincially. On this week's episode, Kim talks about venture capital in Canada, the importance of asking questions and how she stays strong in her character.

What You'll Learn:

1. Opportunities in Canada

2. Entrepreneur culture in Canada vs America

3. How to reframe failure

4. Knowing when to ask for help

5. Creating a good team

6. Authenticity

7. Building your network

8. Mindfulness

9. Growing as a professional

Equifax Canada's President and CEO, Sue Hutchison, joins us to unravel the fabric of leadership in the face of adversity. Steering a corporate giant through the pandemic's upheaval and an integration to the cloud, Sue shares her profound insights on virtual onboarding, cultivating connections in a remote landscape, and the invaluable lessons learnt from a peek into the personal lives of her team. Her approach to nurturing a corporate culture underscores the importance of empathy and transparency in a leader's toolkit.

Navigating a company through transformative times demands a unique blend of optimism and emotional intelligence, qualities that Sue embodies and advocates for. In our discussion, she emphasizes the art of celebrating team victories and the necessity of integrating diverse viewpoints for a well-rounded strategy. The intimate interplay between trustworthy leadership and the successful migration to new technological frontiers is a recurring theme—underscoring the power of adaptability and clear communication in the face of change.

Our conversation takes a deeper dive into the impact of leadership on mental health and personal growth. Sue and I reflect on the critical bonds solidified during the global crisis and the revelation of life's fragility, which fuels our zest for authentic engagement and mindful living. This episode is an exploration of the human side of corporate leadership, touching on the influence of vulnerability, the commitment to diversity in hiring, and the ways we can draw strength from our networks during our most challenging times. Sue's journey is not just a testament to resilient leadership but an invitation to embrace the growth that comes with it.

What You’ll Learn:

• The challenges and opportunities of virtual leadership.

• The role of empathy in successfully guiding large-scale transformation.

• The interplay of personal and professional growth.

• Impact of leadership on mental health. 

• Diversity and inclusion in hiring.

• Resilience and adaptability in leadership

Podcast Timestamps:

(00:00) - Leading Through Change

(08:58) - Leadership Qualities for Successful Transformations

(21:06) - Leadership, Mental Health, and Connection

(35:38) - Leadership Impact and Personal Growth

Key Topics Discussed:

Positive Leadership, Equifax Canada, Adversity, Virtual Onboarding, Remote Work, Corporate Culture, Empathy, Transparency, Optimism, Emotional Intelligence, Celebrating Team Victories, Diverse Viewpoints, Adaptability, Clear Communication, Mental Health, Personal Growth, Vulnerability, Diversity in Hiring, Authentic Engagement, Mindful Living, Resilient Leadership, Transformation, Building Trust, Stress Management, Personal Well-being, Workplace Dynamics, Vulnerability, Personal and Professional Networks, CEO Success

More of Sue:

In 2020, Sue Hutchison joined Equifax Canada as President and General Manager. With 30 years of experience in the financial services, credit and lending industries, Sue has held several senior leadership roles including those with MasterCard, Payments Canada, HSBC Bank, and Bank of America. She's also an active board member of Home Capital Group, has served as an advisory board member for Women in Payments, a board member for BC Women in Hospital Foundation, and the Nature Conservancy of Canada. She now leads Equifax’s transformation from its tremendous legacy into a 100% cloud-based data insights and technology company. 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suehutchison/?originalSubdomain=ca

More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/