Leadership in Quarters: 15-Minute Culture Insights

"We are human beings, not human doings." Ursula Pottinga joins host Josh Seldin to challenge high-achieving leaders who try to intellectualize every problem while completely ignoring the body. Did you know that 90% of the information processed by your system originates in the body before it ever reaches the brain? Josh and Ursula dive deep into the mechanics of nervous system regulation, the power of the "mirror neuron system" in team dynamics, and the hidden biological cost of emotional suppression. They offer practical neuroscience tools to move leaders from a state of wobbly dysregulation to grounded presence, providing a fascinating look at how curiosity and brain science can transform workplace culture in 2026. In this episode, you'll learn: ✅ The Embodied Brain: Why the body holds the deeper wisdom and data required for sustainable behavior modification. ✅ Nervous System Regulation: How your physiological state directly dictates the effectiveness, clarity, and empathy of your leadership actions. ✅ The Mirror Neuron System: The science behind how leaders unconsciously broadcast their stress or calm to their entire team. ✅ The Danger of Suppression: Why pretending "everything is fine" increases your chemical stress load and leads to sideways "leaks" like road rage or sudden outbursts. ✅ Name It to Tame It: How simply verbalizing a difficult emotion immediately triggers a calming biochemical response in the nervous system. ✅ Neuroplasticity & Habits: How to break out of old, ineffective "neural highways" and consciously wire new pathways for leadership success. ✅ Leading Neurodiversity & Differences: Why curiosity is the ultimate tool for supporting neurodivergent, generational, and cultural differences in modern organizations. ✅ Complaints as Requests: How to reframe team complaints as unspoken requests and transition your culture into a solution-focused powerhouse. Connect with Ursula Pottinga: Her Website: https://www.profoundgrowth.com/podcasts LinkedIn: / ursula-pottinga Contact Josh: leadinquarters@gmail.com Follow Leadership in Quarters: @leadinquarters on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok Artwork: Adam Powell Music by Bensound License code: J4NFQF252P8MPOWY Artist: : Benjamin Tissot #LeadershipInQuarters #UrsulaPottinga #NeuroscienceOfLeadership #EmbodiedChange #NervousSystemRegulation #Neuroplasticity #PsychologicalSafety #YourGrowthAscent #JoshSeldin

"How do we work together?" While many leaders focus on working harder or working smarter, cultural strategist Ian Clawson joins Josh Seldin to argue that the most important question is how we co-create. Ian, the co-author of Brave Together, discusses why even high-performing teams can feel disconnected and how leaders can identify the "fear-based" behaviors—blame, complaining, and excuses—that stall growth. In this episode, you'll learn why a "safe space" isn't enough and how to build a "brave space" where the best ideas win. Josh and Ian explore the "Mirror Test" for leaders, the power of leading with curious questions, and how to balance the high standards of execution with the humanity required for long-term cultural health. Key Takeaways: ✅ Inclusion vs. Belonging: Understanding the organizational and individual roles in creating a connected team. ✅ The 3 Faces of Fear: How to spot blame, complaining, and excuses as indicators of underlying psychological barriers. ✅ Leading with Questions: Why the best leaders don't have all the answers and how to use curiosity as a strategic tool. ✅ The Mirror Test: Shifting the mindset from "What's wrong with them?" to "How must I change my approach?". ✅ Standards vs. Expectations: How to avoid the "suffocating" trap of micromanagement by focusing on directional standards. ✅ Co-Creation: Moving beyond the "lone wolf" executor mentality to design a better collective experience. Connect with Ian Clawson: LinkedIn: / ian-clawson-bravecore His Website: https://bravecore.co/ His Book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1265386676/... Contact Josh: leadinquarters@gmail.com Follow Leadership in Quarters: @leadinquarters on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok Artwork: Adam Powell Royalty Free Music: https://www.bensound.com License code: ZP5F5MP5C8LJEFXG Artist: : Benjamin Tissot #LeadershipInQuarters #IanClawson #BraveTogether #WorkplaceCulture #HighTrustTeams #CoCreation #PsychologicalSafety #LeadershipDevelopment #JoshSeldin

"In order for your team to produce for you, you have to have that vulnerability as well." Dr. Mar joins Josh to dismantle the myth that vulnerability is a "soft skill" or a sign of weakness in positions of power. Instead, they discuss how showing humanity allows organizations to thrive during times of extreme disruption, such as the global challenges faced by the healthcare industry during COVID-19. Josh and Dr. Mar dive deep into the differences in how men and women navigate vulnerability, the danger of the "I did it, why can't you?" mentality, and the critical balance between being an empathetic leader and maintaining accountability. They provide a roadmap for leaders to move from "Chaos to Calm" by developing self-awareness and building bridges of trust rather than barriers of ego. In this episode, you'll learn: ✅ The Vulnerability Reframe: Why bringing humanity into stoic work is a requirement for modern organizational success. ✅ Gender Stereotypes in Leadership: How to overcome the different societal pressures placed on men and women regarding emotional expression. ✅ Leading Through Disruption: Real-world lessons from the front lines of healthcare on how empathy saves teams during crises. ✅ The Balance of Calm and Stern: How to be a "no-nonsense" leader while remaining a safe space for your team. ✅ Building Bridges vs. Barriers: Why curiosity and asking "what help is needed?" is more effective than scolding or shaming. ✅ Emotional Regulation: The importance of self-awareness and knowing your own "level" before attempting to lead others. Connect with Dr. Marline C. Duroseau: Her Website: http://www.mcdbe.com/ Chaos to Calm™ : masterclass.mcdbe.com Contact Josh: leadinquarters@gmail.com Follow Leadership in Quarters: @leadinquarters on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok @leadinquarters Artwork: Adam Powell Music: https://www.bensound.com License code: BOPECP4TGJ7IJYEH Artist: : Benjamin Tissot #LeadershipInQuarters #DrMarlineDuroseau #EmpatheticLeadership #VulnerabilityInWorkplace #ResilientLeadership #ChaosToCalm #PsychologicalSafety #JoshSeldin #YourGrowthAscent

"A leader's job is not to get followers; it's to create more leaders." Greg Provance joins Josh to discuss the subtle traps that lead to the "babysitting mentality"—where leaders feel they have to repeat instructions a thousand times because their team lacks ownership. They dive into how to reframe these interactions to foster an environment where team members don't just follow orders, but bring solutions to the table. Josh and Greg explore why curiosity is the most powerful tool in your leadership kit. From utilizing "micro-coaching" sessions in high-paced environments to turning mistakes into collaborative learning opportunities, this episode provides actionable strategies to move beyond the surface-level metrics and tap into the energy of your culture. In this episode, you'll learn: ✅ Babysitter vs. Leader: How to diagnose if you are unintentionally stifling your team's growth. ✅ The Power of Curiosity: Why turning every "correction" into a question changes the energy of the entire team. ✅ Micro-Coaching: How to build capability and ownership on the fly, even when you have "no time." ✅ The "Why" Behind Mistakes: How to move from shaming failures to understanding the root cause (and fixing it for good). ✅ Reclaiming the Pre-Shift: Why team huddles are the "golden moments" for alignment, even if they aren't perfect. ✅ Energy as a Metric: Why the "feel" of your organization is the ultimate driver of retention and profitability. Connect with Greg Provance: His Website: gphospitalitypartners.com His Email: greg@gphospitalitypartners.com Contact Josh: leadinquarters@gmail.com Follow Leadership in Quarters: Instagram, YouTube & TikTok @leadinquarters Artwork: Adam Powell Music by https://www.bensound.com License code: JPMXGDTPSY9CK8IH Artist: : Nick Petrov #LeadershipInQuarters #GregProvance #RideOrDieTeam #HospitalityLeadership #OwnershipMindset #StopBabysitting #LeadershipDevelopment #CultureBuilding #JoshSeldin #YourGrowthAscent

"Inaction is in itself a decision." Kevin Gaskell joins Josh to discuss how to lead when the pressure doesn't let up. Drawing parallels from the military and the Apollo space missions, Kevin explains why the best leaders remain calm by becoming the "Capcom" for their team—filtering noise and focusing on a single version of the truth. Josh and Kevin explore the "5% Genius Rule," the importance of scheduling recovery time for high-performers, and why "arrogance is a terrible sin" in the boardroom. Whether you are navigating a ten-year loss or building a new startup, this episode provides a roadmap for shifting from reactive firefighting to proactive, systemic success. In this episode, you'll learn: ✅ The 5% Genius Rule: How to harness the collective "genius" of your entire team to create 100% excellence. ✅ Clarity over Numbers: Why focusing on the score (numbers) instead of the game (teamwork) leads to failure. ✅ Capcom Communication: How to reduce noise and confusion by centralizing communication during a crisis. ✅ Resilience beats Brilliance: Why long-term success depends on consistent systems rather than individual "heroes." ✅ Shadow Culture Prevention: How to ensure alignment in the room translates to action outside the room. ✅ Scheduled Recovery: Why strong leaders must force their "Type A" executives to take breaks to avoid breaking. ✅ Win or Learn: Shifting the mindset from "fear of failure" to "momentum of decision." Connect with Kevin Gaskell: https://kevingaskell.com/ Contact Josh: leadinquarters@gmail.com Follow Leadership in Quarters: Instagram, YouTube & TikTok @leadinquarters Artwork: Adam Powell Royalty Free Music: Bensound.com License code: VR19BIPYLMCKCYNP Artist: : Benjamin Tissot #LeadershipInQuarters #KevinGaskell #PressureLeadership #BusinessResilience #SystemsThinking #TeamPerformance #ExecutiveCoaching #StrategicClarity #JoshSeldin #YourGrowthAscent

"Authenticity is the highest vibration—it's even higher than love." Dr. Norma Hollis joins Josh to discuss the high cost of "losing yourself" in a corporate box. They dive into why many professionals face an identity crisis at retirement and how companies unknowingly design systems that kill the very diversity of mindset they claim to value. Josh and Dr. Hollis discuss the "Gifts Game" and the importance of alignment—matching your natural-born talents with your professional role. This episode is a call to action for leaders to stop leading from a pedestal of perfection and start leading with a human-centric approach that fosters trust, engagement, and sustainable energy. In this episode, you'll learn: ✅ Identity Suppression: How to recognize if your corporate culture is stealing your authentic energy. ✅ Authenticity as Strategy: Why alignment between who you are and what you do is the ultimate driver of ROI. ✅ The Gifts Game: Understanding the multidimensional nature of your team (and why your engineers might actually be artists). ✅ The Hidden Cost of Inauthenticity: How "inching" the truth to save a job leads to an $8 million loss for organizations. ✅ Human-Centric vs. Data-Driven: Why the companies that "have a soul" are the ones that will win in the next decade. ✅ Breaking Autopilot: Practical advice on using reflection and assessment to stop "pushing through" and start living. ✅ Leading by Energy: How to support and read your team's energy rather than suppressing it. Connect with Dr. Norma Hollis: Her Website: normahollis.com Her Authenticity Assessment: http://authenticityassessment.com/ Contact Josh: leadinquarters@gmail.com Follow Leadership in Quarters: Instagram, YouTube & TikTok @leadinquarters Artwork: Adam Powell Music by: Bensound.com/free-music-for-videos License code: MPJZBXTAHBWKTSO6 Artist: : Benjamin Tissot #LeadershipInQuarters #DrNormaHollis #AuthenticLeadership #IdentitySuppression #CorporateCulture #AuthenticEnergy #ProfessionalDevelopment #EmployeeEngagement #JoshSeldin #YourGrowthAscent

"Culture doesn't just happen; if you let it grow from the bottom, you're going to get weeds." Manny Palachuk joins Josh to explain why leadership must be the gardener of organizational culture. They dive into the "mutiny" that happens when communication breaks down and why keeping a high-performer with a toxic attitude is a mathematical mistake for your business. Josh and Manny explore the "Human Element" in corporate spaces, the difference between healthy tension and toxic dissent, and how to systematize your business so you can work on it, not just in it. Whether you're a startup of three or a corporation of three hundred, this episode provides the four pillars—Vision, Mission, Values, and the Human Element—needed to build a culture that thrives. In this episode, you'll learn: ✅ The Side-of-the-Mouth Dissent: How to spot the first signs of a culture shift after a meeting ends. ✅ The Brilliant Jerk: Why holding onto a technical expert with a bad attitude is "holding your company hostage." ✅ Three-Level Deep Coverage: The system that gives you the freedom to let toxic people go without tanking the business. ✅ Vision-Coupling vs. Leader-Coupling: Why the best organizations (like Zappos) survive even after the founder is gone. ✅ Working ON vs. IN the Business: Lessons from The E-Myth Revisited on systematizing for scale. ✅ The Human Element: How small shifts, like personalized cubicles and diverse thought, prevent the "dead building" syndrome. ✅ First Who, Then What: Why the "We" mindset is more powerful than the "I" mindset in leadership. Connect with Manny Palachuk: His Website: https://www.mannypalachuk.com/ Free Culture Assessment: https://www.mannypalachuk.com/culture... Contact Josh: leadinquarters@gmail.com Follow Leadership in Quarters: Instagram, YouTube & TikTok @leadinquarters Music: https://www.bensound.com/free-music-f... License code: M2UXD4PEZ9DVVQ9N Artist: : Marcus P. #LeadershipInQuarters #MannyPalachuk #Toxiculture #CompanyCulture #TheEMyth #ExtremeOwnership #BrilliantJerk #BusinessSystems #LeadershipDevelopment #JoshSeldin #YourGrowthAscent

Is your "niceness" actually a survival tactic? Erica Bonham joins Josh to reveal why niceness is often a performance used to mask anxiety, while true kindness is a "muscle" built through honesty and direct feedback. They discuss the "soup of society" we all swim in and how old traumas can turn leaders into rigid, "power-over" bosses. Erica explains the biology of leadership—how your vagus nerve communicates with your team's "bullshit detectors"—and why performing calm isn't enough. You have to actually be regulated. In this episode, you'll learn: ✅ Niceness vs. Kindness: Why niceness is self-preservation, but kindness is a gift of honesty and growth. ✅ The Nervous System Toolkit: Moving beyond "head bubbles" into somatic practices to anchor yourself in your lower belly. ✅ The "Strongest Nervous System" Wins: How a leader's regulation (or dysregulation) is literally contagious to the entire room. ✅ Shadow Work: Why "gruff" leadership styles are often just trauma adaptations designed to prevent being a victim again. ✅ Vulnerability as Strength: Why naming the "anxiety in the room" builds more trust than pretending everything is "rainbows and sunshine." ✅ Differentiation: How real connection requires a healthy degree of separation and knowing where you end and your team begins. Connect with Erica Bonham: Download the Free Regulation Toolkit: 11 Somatic Practices to Get You Out of Overwhelm: https://www.avoscounseling.com/freebie Connect with Erica and her team for therapy and coaching services at: http://www.avoscounsleing.com Her Instagram: / avoscounseling Her LinkedIn: / erica-bonham-956262147 Read Erica's Book: Always Enough, Never Done: https://www.avoscounseling.com/always... Contact Josh: leadinquarters@gmail.com Follow Leadership in Quarters: Instagram, YouTube & TikTok @leadinquarters Music by: Bensound License code: KBPTYXDUFZWRBCTA Artist: : Benjamin Tissot #LeadershipInQuarters #EricaBonham #HeartLedLeadership #SomaticRegulation #NervousSystem #VagusNerve #KindnessInBusiness #ShadowWork #AuthenticLeadership

Are your "nice" habits actually hurting your team? Tucker Miller joins Josh to reveal why being "likable" isn't the same as being "respected." They explore how leaders unconsciously signal a lack of trust—like doing the work themselves after delegating it—and how to move from reactive "Lizard Brain" responses to intentional, high-level leadership. Tucker shares a striking story about an executive in a "ivory tower" who couldn't understand why his team wouldn't talk to him, proving that the environment you create speaks louder than the words you say. In this episode, you'll learn: ✅ The Lizard Brain vs. Prefrontal Cortex: Why we avoid conflict and how to "pause" into a neutral state before reacting. ✅ The "Nice Guy" Red Flag: Why leading with a need to be liked often masks a confidence issue and leaves the team feeling uncertain. ✅ Intent vs. Impact: Why your "good intentions" don't matter if your team feels unheard or untrusted. ✅ The Physicality of Trust: How your office setup, gatekeepers, and "thick carpets" might be working against your approachability. ✅ The 4-Word Strategy: Tucker's secret to starting meaningful, strategic conversations without overthinking the opening. ✅ Gaining Trust Back: The "Compare and Contrast" model for self-reflection and the power of admitting your own growth areas to your team. Connect with Tucker Miller: Her Website: OnwardLeadership.com Her Book: https://www.amazon.com/First-Four-Wor... Contact Josh: leadinquarters@gmail.com Follow Leadership in Quarters: Instagram, YouTube & TikTok @leadinquarters Music by Bensound.com/free-music-for-videos License code: 0KNVLQT7W7FZHOFI Artist: : Marcus P. #LeadershipInQuarters #TuckerMiller #TrustInLeadership #ExecutiveCoaching #IntentVsImpact #CommunicationStrategy #PsychologicalSafety #LeadershipDevelopment #ConflictResolution

Are you leading from your values, or are you just following the rules? Stephanie Ramirez joins Josh to discuss why "Self-Leadership" is the foundation of effective management. They dive into why high achievers fear "disappointing others" by choosing themselves and how this sacrifice eventually drains the very energy needed to lead. Whether you're a fresh college grad or a 20-year veteran, Stephanie explains how to reclaim your calendar, build a "psychologically safe" culture, and use your energy—not just your title—to influence change. In this episode, you'll learn: ✅ The Definition of Self-Led: Moving away from "outsourcing your identity" and reclaiming decision-making power. ✅ The Weight Loss Mentality: Why radical life changes start with small, boring, intentional steps (like taking a walk or blocking 15 minutes of quiet). ✅ Relinquishing the "Control Trap": Why being in every meeting makes you a "slave to everything" and how to trust your team to rise. ✅ Leading Without a Title: How clarity of self-worth and a unique point of view can exert more influence than a hierarchy. ✅ Psychological Safety: How leaders can move from "protective mode" to "growth mode" by separating the person from the task when things fail. ✅ The "Vibe Check": Why energy is contagious and how a leader's autopilot mood can either spread the "flu" of negativity or the momentum of success. Connect with Stephanie Ramirez: Her Website: https://stephanieramirez.co Instagram: / stephanieramirez LinkedIn: / stephanieramirez Contact Josh: leadinquarters@gmail.com Follow Leadership in Quarters: Instagram, YouTube & TikTok @leadinquarters Music by Bensound License code: AAVGZHCOR4UB1JEU Artist: : Benjamin Tissot #LeadershipInQuarters #StephanieRamirez #SelfLeadership #ExecutiveCoaching #PsychologicalSafety #EnergyLeadership #BreakingConditioning #WorkplaceCulture #Intention

Many leaders assume that company culture is something that just "happens"—a byproduct of the team they hire. But as Katherine Robinette points out: culture happens whether you plan it or not. The real question is whether you are intentionally designing it to support your goals, or letting it evolve by accident. In this episode of Leadership in Quarters, host Josh Seldin sits down with leadership strategist Katherine Robinette to unpack the "Core Dimensions of Leadership." They explore how to move away from the "Flavor of the Month" management style and toward a structured, intentional approach that protects your team's energy and clarifies your organization's true North Star. In this episode, you'll learn: ✅ The 4 Core Dimensions: How to balance Mindset, Method, Metrics, and Mood. ✅ Why your "North Star" isn't a goal to achieve, but a reason to exist. ✅ Identifying "Method" problems: Why team burnout is usually a system failure, not a people failure. ✅ How to use "In-Progress Metrics" to keep your team motivated during long-term projects. ✅ The art of saying "No": How to protect your team's energy by knowing what to stop doing. ✅ The Stop-Start-Continue framework: A tactical gut-check for any organization. ✅ How to transition from an individual executor to a strategic leader without the burnout. Connect with Katherine Robinette: Her Website: https://keystoneandraven.com/ LinkedIn: / katherine-robinette-speaker Curious how your leadership, team, or workplace is showing up? Download these reflection tools to get a sense of what is really going on at work: https://keystoneandraven.com/resources Contact Josh: leadinquarters@gmail.com Follow Leadership in Quarters: Instagram, YouTube & TikTok @leadinquarters Don't forget to LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and hit the notification bell so you never miss an episode on navigating the complexities of modern leadership! Music by https://www.bensound.com License code: US7J7IREGSLNT8B0 Artist: : Benjamin Tissot #LeadershipInQuarters #IntentionalLeadership #CoreDimensionsOfLeadership #LeadershipMindset #CompanyCultureDesign #BurnoutPrevention #StrategicPlanning #LeadershipDevelopment #ManagementSystems

Welcome to Episode 34 of Leadership in Quarters: Interview Series. My name is Josh Seldin and today I'm interviewing Lisa Friscia. A little about Lisa: Lisa Friscia is a strategic advisor and fractional Chief People Officer who fixes the systems underneath the symptoms. When teams are burned out, decisions stall, or performance slips, she designs the operating infrastructure that holds the organization together. A former classroom teacher, founding principal, and Chief People Officer, Lisa partners with founders and leadership teams to design clear decision rights, strong talent systems, and execution rhythms that scale. Her work helps organizations move from reactive firefighting to sustainable performance. She writes All Things Talent, a practical publication for founders and operators who want to build high-performing organizations without burning out their people. She believes the best-run organizations are not the ones that hustle hardest. They are the ones built right. During this episode, we discuss how people can be thrown into leadership roles, especially as people leaders, without the proper skillset or training. So often we take our highest executors and founders and take them from technical ownership to people management. How we expect people to do this without the proper support and training is a mystery, but one we begin to uncover in our discussion. You can connect with Lisa through any of the links below: LinkedIn: / lisafriscia Her Website: francaconsulting.com Her Newsletter: https://lisas-newsletter-e68d0b.beehi... For any questions, or if you're interested in being a guest, please email me at leadinquarters‪@gmail.com‬. Artwork by: Adam Powell Royalty Free Music: https://www.bensound.com License code: WKPF4WFRB2XO0EQS Artist: : Benjamin Tissot

Welcome to Episode 33 of Leadership in Quarters: Interview Series. My name is Josh Seldin and today I'm interviewing David Cicerchi. A little about David: David is a Leadership Aperture Coach who specializes in helping leaders expand their capacity to navigate the today's fast-changing complex world, make better decisions under pressure, and build stronger, healthier cultures. He works in the field of vertical leadership development and partners with the telos institute in their flagship leadership development program called The Vertical Frontier, coaching leaders across corporate environments to develop two essential capacities: range — the ability to widen their aperture— and wisdom — the ability to deploy the aperture that most effectively meets the needs of the situation. David helps leaders move beyond reacting on autopilot so they can respond with clarity, presence, and maturity — especially in VUCA organizational contexts, where things are volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous. He's also a second-degree black belt in Aikido, the martial art of peace, and integrates that embodied practice into his leadership work — helping leaders stay centered under pressure, handle conflict productively, and lead with grounded strength. During this episode, we discuss how similar to a camera, leadership can widen and narrow their aperture depending on the situation and need of the business, and the team. Whether it's a narrow aperture for focused decision making, or a wide aperture to step back and focus on big picture, each approach is important and critical to a healthy culture. You can connect with David through any of the links below: LinkedIn: / davidcicerchi The telos institute: https://www.thetelosinstitute.com/lea... His website: www.evolutionaryemergencecoaching.com For any questions, or if you're interested in being a guest, please email me at leadinquarters‪@gmail.com‬. Artwork by: Adam Powell Music: Bensound.com/royalty-free-music License code: IXKVF9KQAVOF4YZF Artist: : Benjamin Tissot

Welcome to Episode 32 of Leadership in Quarters: Interview Series. My name is Josh Seldin and today I'm interviewing Nicola Knobel. A little about Nicola: Nicola is a New Zealand-based author, risk and safety leader, and neurodivergent advocate. She works at the intersection of leadership, psychological safety, and inclusion, drawing on her background in health and safety, risk governance, and law. Nicola is also the author of Unmasking Leadership, where she explores how neurodivergent leaders are reshaping the future of work. During this episode, we discuss neurodiversity and how we can make our workplace more inclusive. We come to the realization that there are neurodiverse people already in our organizations, we may just not know it yet, and how we show up as a leader and the culture we build can make or break any semblance of trust we try to build. You can connect with Nicola through any of the links below: LinkedIn: / nicolaknobel Instagram: / nicola.knobel Youtube: / @nikiknobel Her website: www.nicolaknobel.com For any questions, or if you're interested in being a guest, please email me at leadinquarters‪@gmail.com‬. Artwork by: Adam Powell Music by Bensound.com License code: EDB40LGNNHFZILZQ Artist: : Benjamin Tissot

Welcome to Episode 31 of Leadership in Quarters: Interview Series. My name is Josh Seldin and today I'm interviewing Dr. Christie McMullen. A little about Dr. McMullen: Dr. Christie McMullen is a podcaster, best selling author, CEO but more importantly she is a wife, mother, avid bootcamper, friend, and joy creator. She helps make work fun because people quit things that aren't fun! During this episode, we discuss something that is UNHEARD OF in the workplace, and that's FUN. We talk about overall human interactions, how we can use that to get the best out of our people by latching onto the human side, and of course, how to make work fun! As we've drifted from saying the words "work" and "fun" in the same sentence, it is entirely possible to have both things existing together, and Dr. McMullen gives us a glimpse on how that's done. You can also connect with Dr. McMullen through any of the links below: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-christie-mcmullen/ Instagram: @drchristiemcmullen Her books: https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B08FF317FP?ccs_id=946f8019-0fe7-491f-9171-5082a44b7a08 For any questions, or if you're interested in being a guest, please email me at leadinquarters‪@gmail.com‬. Artwork by: Adam Powell Music by: https://www.bensound.com License code: PF8UTSWXRMDT8NLW Artist: : Benjamin Tissot

Welcome to Episode 30 of Leadership in Quarters: Interview Series. My name is Josh Seldin and today I'm interviewing Jaime Mann. A little about Jaime: Jaime Mann is a leadership keynote speaker and certified coach who helps leaders strengthen their self-leadership so they can lead others with clarity, confidence, and connection—especially under pressure. With a background in psychology and over two decades of real-world leadership experience in high-stress environments, Jaime blends research, storytelling, and straight talk to challenge how we think about leadership. She's known for delivering high-energy, practical keynotes that leave audiences thinking differently—and behaving differently—long after the event ends. During this episode, we discuss the topic of leadership habits. We talk about how a leader's habits can directly influence the culture they are trying to build. It becomes so obvious to anyone walking into the room to "feel" the type of culture that exists, and different environments and sectors have different stereotypes and history to overcome. Want leadership that works in the real world — not just on paper? Visit www.jaimemann.com to learn more about Jaime's keynotes and speaking work. You can also connect with Jaime through any of the links below: LinkedIn: / theamaryllisproject Her Website: www.jaimemann.com For any questions, or if you're interested in being a guest, please email me at leadinquarters‪@gmail.com‬. Artwork by: Adam Powell Music I Use: Bensound.com/royalty-free-music License code: CZYY2S10IWKWUOYD Artist: : Benjamin Tissot

Welcome to Episode 29 of Leadership in Quarters: Interview Series. My name is Josh Seldin and today I'm interviewing Dr. Rosenna Bakari. A little about Dr. Bakari: Dr. Ro-Zee-na Ba-car-ri is a psychologist, educator, and leadership business consultant who designs and delivers emotional wellness programs for individuals and organizations seeking sustainable performance and human-centered workplaces. Her newly released book, Seven Exits: Leaving Behind What No Longer Serves You, offers a grounded, practical path to lasting personal change—and it serves as the foundation for her transformational courses and consulting work.and consulting work. During this episode, we discuss the topics in her book, The Seven Exits. We discuss each Exit, how they intertwine and how holding on to them and never "exiting" holds us back from growth. This episode reinforces the idea that personal growth is professional growth, and who we are today took us to where we are, but may not be enough to take us to where we are going. You can connect with Dr. Bakari through any of the links below: LinkedIn: / truthlieswork TikTok: / truthlieswork Instagram: / truthlieswork YouTube: / @truthliesandwork X: https://x.com/truthlieswork For any questions, or if you're interested in being a guest, please email me at leadinquarters‪@gmail.com‬. Artwork by: Adam Powell Music by https://www.bensound.com/free-music-f... License code: P4THZD0DPTTUMZY9 Artist: : Benjamin Tissot

Welcome to Leadership in Quarters: Interview Series. My name is Josh Seldin and today I'm interviewing Toni Will. A little about Toni: Toni Will is the General Manager of the Kalamazoo Wings men's professional hockey team, leading at the executive level in one of the most male-dominated industries in sports. Based in Kalamazoo, Michigan, she is also a leadership coach and speaker who works with high-achieving women and men to build clarity, confidence, and sustainable success while living alcohol-free. Toni is a TEDx speaker, host of the Women In… podcast, and creator of the empowHER Conference, held annually in Kalamazoo. A two-time Ironman athlete and two-time Guinness World Record holder, she is the author of Rebellious Success, releasing August 2026. During this episode, we discuss being someone in the room who is different from everyone else. We know it happens, and often this person feels like an outcast. Toni helps us understand that it's not just okay, but extremely beneficial to be untraditionally authentic, and be the real you. We discuss how you should bring your whole self to work, whether you're the same as everyone else or not. You can connect with Toni through any of the links below: Facebook: Toni Lentini Will Facebook: toniwillofficial Instagram: @toniwillofficial Instagram: @imtoniwill LinkedIn: Toni Lentini Will And her website: https://www.toniwill.com/ For any questions, or if you're interested in being a guest, please email me at leadinquarters‪@gmail.com‬. Artwork by: Adam Powell Music by https://www.bensound.com License code: WK2OUU7WOR6AOYGK Artist: : Benjamin Tissot

Welcome to Episode 27 of Leadership in Quarters: Interview Series. My name is Josh Seldin and today I'm interviewing Kurt Uhlir. A little about Kurt: Kurt Uhlir is a senior operating executive who has been directly involved in more than 60 funding rounds and exits, working in the trenches with leadership teams as companies scale through real inflection points. He is a global keynote speaker, trusted by organizations and leaders on some of the largest stages in the world. Kurt is widely recognized as a leading expert in high-performing servant leadership. Unlike many who teach leadership from a distance, he actively leads teams every day, applying these principles inside operating companies. His work focuses on helping people and organizations win at work and at home, and his guidance has been sought by thousands of leaders - from individual contributors navigating life and leadership to senior executives and even the President of the United States. During this episode, we discuss the importance of culture through clarity, consistency and creating momentum across functions. We talk about how important visions and plans are to an organization, and how to prioritize where needed while still enabling and energizing teams, doing what's needed to prevent the creating of silos across functions. Business can sometimes be a war, and to win the war and not just the battle, it takes the entire multi-functional team working together to achieve the company's goal. You can connect with Kurt through any of the links below: LinkedIn: / kurtuhlir His Website: https://ceonetweavers.org/kurt-uhlir/ Two of his articles: https://kurtuhlir.com/growth-vs-scale/ https://kurtuhlir.com/definitive-guid... And a profile of Kurt: https://ceonetweavers.org/kurt-uhlir/ For any questions, or if you're interested in being a guest, please email me at leadinquarters‪@gmail.com‬. Artwork by: Adam Powell Music by https://www.bensound.com License code: ZN6SZGIBRK0U1YDK Artist: : Benjamin Tissot

Raymond E. Foster is a leadership author, educator, and civic leader whose work bridges real-world decision-making with timeless principles of character, accountability, and service. A former law-enforcement professional and longtime leadership instructor, Raymond is the author of nine books including The Temple Within and Chasing the Surge: Ten Thousand Rides into the American Night, and co-author of Leadership: Texas Hold 'em Style, a widely used leadership book that examines judgment, risk, and responsibility through lived experience rather than abstract theory. He currently serves in senior leadership roles across civic and nonprofit organizations, including Rotary, the Chamber of Commerce, and Freemasonry, where he is known for mentoring emerging leaders and building high-trust institutions. Whether writing, teaching, or leading in the community, Raymond focuses on one central question: how ordinary people make sound decisions under pressure—a theme he explores in Leadership: Texas Hold 'em Style, where poker and card playing become a practical metaphor for leadership in the real world. During this episode, we discuss the the topic of how the game of Texas Hold 'em relates to leadership. Inspired by his book "Leadership: Texas Hold 'em Style" we discuss the interconnectivity of the card game, to how we show up as leaders, and influence, support and empower our teams. For any questions, or if you're interested in being a guest, please email me at leadinquarters‪@gmail.com‬. Artwork by: Adam Powell Music I Use: Bensound.com/royalty-free-music License code: FN4QHNK2YFLDJYIV Artist: : Benjamin Tissot

During this episode, we discuss the the topic of Purpose. We review what purpose is, and why it's so important for people to lead and live with purpose. From burnout, to fulfillment and a sense of self, igniting one's purpose is essential to a healthy culture, and Hanna gives us the tools to do just that. Artwork by: Adam Powell Music I use: https://www.bensound.com License code: VJ7NXZ0EMLNL2PWP Artist: : Benjamin Tissot

During this episode, we discuss the importance of supporting women leaders in the workplace. Whether it's through mentorship, or seeking your own success through the success of others, Angeline teaches us how we can go about leading, lifting and empowering women. More importantly, she discusses how small acts of empowerment can create ripple effects throughout the organization. Artwork by: Adam Powell Music I Use: https://www.bensound.com/free-music-f... License code: OBZDXBLWRYDEMYD5 Artist: : Benjamin Tissot

During this episode, we discuss Radhika's OHLA framework, and how KPIs and OKRs have worn out their welcome in the professional world. We discuss the importance of puzzle setting and puzzle solving, as opposed to goal setting. What sets this apart is the freedom and autonomy it gives the team, a different type of control for the leader and nothing but opportunity for the business. Artwork by: Adam Powell Music by https://www.bensound.com License code: EOVRL7UXCBA7CRO4 Artist: : Benjamin Tissot

During this episode, we discuss Simone's REAL Method, a confidence building framework that applies to both your personal and professional life. Inspired by her climb of Mt. Kilimanjaro, this REAL Method puts things into perspective to give you the clarity and confidence you need as a leader. Artwork by: Adam Powell Music: https://www.bensound.com/free-music-f... License code: 4UTKLYBLJ9QMKT79 Artist: : Benjamin Tissot

During this episode, we discuss the importance of values based leadership. We explore our own values, and discuss how people can recognize what their own values are. We then dive into the ever so complicated situation of when your workplace's values don't match your own, what you can do, and what you should do to stay true to yourself. Artwork by: Adam Powell Music: Bensound.com/royalty-free-music License code: JLG6R4EBQ8ZK0NRU Artist: : Benjamin Tissot

During this episode, we discuss how to build a high trust culture, and what the make up of that culture is. Whether it's gaining the trust of others by controlling the toxic leader in the organization, or hearing everyone on both sides of the courtroom and doing what's best for the individual, and not the bottom dollar, the focus of the organization is to lay the foundation of trust. Artwork by: Adam Powell Music: Bensound License code: B4SLZJUHTGEMNNEM Artist: : Benjamin Tissot

During this episode, we discuss how to find your voice as a leader. So often we are new to our jobs, whether it's because we are right out of school, or we've decided to take our career in a different direction. While doing this, it's important to learn how to find your voice as a leader, full of authenticity, relationship building and clear communication. Aleksandra let's us in on the approaches we should keep in mind as we go through this journey. Artwork by: Adam Powell Music I Use: https://www.bensound.com/free-music-f... License code: 3PTGFFFE1HVNWE6D Artist: : Nick Petrov

We have enough issues today with others not believing in us, but we also don't do ourselves any favors when we have Self Limiting Beliefs. When we consantly question our ability, or allow ourselves to be the butt of a joke that is the expense of how others see our capability, we are limiting our own beliefs. We need to write a story with strong beliefs, beliefs in ourselfs and what we bring to the table. That's what today's episode is about. Cover Art: a.p.e.e.z.y Royalty Free Music from Tunetank.com Track: New Beginnings by Romanov_Studio https://tunetank.com/track/1209-new-beginnings/

During this episode, we talk about the importance of High Performance Cultures. These days we don't have the luxury to have lackluster organizations. People want a healthy culture they can be a part of, where they are invested in to perform at the highest level they can be. In this episode, we learn how to create high performance cultures, and the importance of doing so. Artwork by: Adam Powell Music by Bensound.com License code: AJCNL3BK7ADBTUVJ Artist: : Benjamin Tissot

During this episode, we talk about the importance of Leadership Development. In the world we live in today, people are thrown into leadership positions without a second thought. But are they ready? Have we done our part to ensure they are trained, qualified and their capability built before we let them go lead and coach others? Leadership Development is a critically important topic that we must be intentional about, and begin doing to support our culture. Artwork by: Adam Powell Music by Bensound License code: UMVEQR8OBO2O0UGM Artist: : Benjamin Tissot

During this episode, we talk about the Six Principles to Get Unstuck, and how to take back control of your life. Aron helps us understand that unintentionally, life gets away from us and we get stuck. We learn that it's important to trigger on the fact that we are stuck, and then do something about it. Using these Six Principles will help us take back control of our lives, get us unstuck, and bring us to a place of being happy and content with life, both professionally and personally. Artwork by: Adam Powell Music: bensound.com License code: 7VPB46DJGPLQFNDZ Artist: : Marcus P.

During this episode, we talk about the ever popular topic of work life balance. Payal brings an interesting approach to this topic that so many people strive to achieve. Is work life balance possible? Maybe not in the sense that we normally think of. Is it balance, integration or co-existence? Listen in to hear about the best approach to this topic, and how we can support ourselves, and our teams in this regard. Artwork by: Adam Powell Music by: bensound.com License code: KDFYFRJWZCK8EULR Artist: : Benjamin Tissot

During this episode, we talk about The 5 Leadership Values, which are necessary to be effective leaders. We discuss each of the values, and how we can leverage them to support ourselves, and our teams in our professional life. We also compare ambition and fulfillment, which is something that many professionals struggle with trying to balance while they build their careers. Artwork by: Adam Powell Music by: https://www.bensound.com License code: JB6UORWWG6G0ODPW Artist: : Dollshade

During this episode, we talk about Unconscious Bias, something we all have, whether we realize it or not. We discuss the difference between unconscious and conscious bias, intent versus impact and how privilege can impact our bias. Take the time during this episode to think and reflect on where your biases lie, because we all have them, whether we realize it or not. Artwork by: Adam Powell Music I Use: Bensound.com/royalty-free-music License code: GGFFNYHODG6EUMBW

In this episode David Price talks about the importance of Resliency in teams. It's so important that team members can push through the hard times in order to achieve amazing feats, and resiliency is at the heart of that push. Artwork by: Adam Powell Music I Use: Music by Bensound.com/free-music-for-videos License code: 25HO7PKU15HFJNVH

During this episode, we talk about the importance of Organizational Learning Cultures. How we focus on learning as a collective as opposed to just the individual. We also look at how we create a continuous improvement cycle loop to ensure we are pivoting and improving the training and learning opportunities we offer our teams. Artwork by: Adam Powell Music by https://www.bensound.com/free-music-f... License code: MBEOPKV6PYZBUNJJ

During this episode, we talk about Dan's transformational growth process for executive teams, Executive Ownershift®. We discuss a change in thought process, where we focus on developing the team as a whole instead of individuals. Dan brings an interesting twist to leadership development, where we no longer just focus on the individual for their own leadership development and what they can bring to the team, but rather we focus on the leadership team and develop them as one. Artwork by: Adam Powell Music I Use: Music by: Bensound License code: MYYW2XKGRVA2ZEB0

During this episode, we talk about something that many people are facing on a daily basis in the professional world, and that's Burnout. We discuss what burnout is, what signs there are and how to recover from burnout, if at all possible. This is one to tune into for sure, because we either experience this, or know someone who does, on a daily basis. Artwork by: Adam Powell Music I Use: Royalty Free Music: Bensound.com License code: 2KVWAFFQMDBRXATW

During this episode, we talk about The 5 Leadership Blunders. These blunders can be made at any level of leadership, and normally have something to do with a person's ego. Tune in to see what pitfalls await if we find ourselves making the same blunders as we discuss, and find out how to avoid them. Artwork by: Adam Powell Music I Use: Royalty Free Music: https://www.bensound.com License code: UHGX9PRBDUKWREYV

During this episode, we talk about Questions. We discuss how questions are used by highly effective teams to truly understand other's points of view to pick the best path forward as the team's understanding grows. We learn about the types of questions to ask, and how to navigate situations where open questions are important, and seeking to understand is critical. Artwork by: Adam Powell Music I Use: Bensound License code: YCUTVVZTJU6HLXSS

During this episode, we talk about Imposter Syndrome and how it impacts those at work and at home. We discuss how to spot imposter syndrome, who normally experiences it and how to help others overcome it. Charles provides insights that flip the script on supporting people through EO and ultimately getting to the root cause of the problem. Artwork by: Adam Powell Music I Use: Bensound.com/royalty-free-music License code: Y5UHKM5YDZCUCTL9

During this episode, we talk about Leadership in the Real World. We discuss what values and leadership qualities you can, and can't teach people. We also discuss the importance of understanding how leadership is in the real world, compared to the veil of stability and the highlight real we see in social media. Everything isn't exactly how it seems. Artwork by: Adam Powell Music I Use: Bensound.com/free-music-for-videos License code: V1NIJP37DBD08Q30

During this episode, we talk about Cultural Anthropology. We seek to understand what exactly Cultural Anthropology is, and how it can be used to understand and improve culture in the workplace. With Kristine's expertise, we learn about how important culture is, why we as leaders need to be consistent in our message, direction and actions and how we enable protection of mental health while building a strong culture. Artwork by: Adam Powell Music: bensound.com License code: ZSJMVHBWFBMDCOCN

How do you adapt when you're in a new place and a new culture? How do you help others adapt? What kind of struggles and challenges will they face, and do we allow them to face them alone? Tune in and find out what we can do to help people adapt in a new culture. Artwork: a.p.e.e.z.y Music by Bensound.com License code: BNAFXH5N0LX38LJO

When it's time to promote your next leader, how do you choose? How do you ensure you're putting the right person in the role? Is your best executor also your best next leader, or do you need someone more well rounded? Tune in to find out how to go from Leaderboard to Leadership. Artwork: a.p.e.e.z.y Music: bensound.com License code: OTNWOKL5UBLF0KRN

It's important to understand how different people are viewed in the professional world, and the challenges they have to go through. Most of us live blessed lives where we are ignorant to the trials and challenges other's face. Tune in to hear Urmi Hossain give us her perspective, and expereince about Women in Leadership. Artwork: a.p.e.e.z.y Music: Bensound.com/free-music-for-videos License code: KTWK8H5QAEZAL6EU

If posed with the question on what matters most to you, is it your salary, or the culture of the organization you're a part of? When does that balance tip, and what's your breaking point on either side? Is there a price for your happiness and what you're willing to put up with? Or is enjoying your job, and the people you work with more important? That's the basis of this episode, weighing the options with regards to what's more important. And most of all, this varies greatly by the individual. Artwork: a.p.e.e.z.y Music: Hitslab

How forgiving of a person are you? When someone makes a mistake, how do you react? Do you hold it against them? Or do you understand that we are all flawed, and help them learn from their mistake, offering them a second chance? We all deserve a chance at redemption, for different reasons. Cover Art: a.p.e.e.z.y Music: RomanySenykMusic

Do you know what a microaggression is, or have you maybe been on the receiving end of one? As the name suggests, it's not something pleasant, but it happens all too often in the world today. Listen in to find out what a microaggression is, some examples of them, and how it can impact those we interact with on a daily basis. Cover art: a.p.e.e.z.y Music: RomanSenykMusic

Our world is ever changing, both inside and outside of the workplace. How we react to change, and how we adapt, will determine our success in life and in our career. But how do we approach adapting to change? And how do we ensure we don't get left behind in the process? Cover Art: a.p.e.e.z.y Music: RomanSenykMusic

You have bias, I have bias, everyone has a bias of some sort that exists. But are we fully aware of the biases that we have? And how do we allow it to impact the work we do, and the culture we are trying to build. How we control our biases is so important, because if we don't, our trust can come crumbling down.