Join author, consultant, speaker and coach, Dr. Rosie Ward as she leverages experience, stories, books, ideas and insights to explore shared human experiences to help further our understanding of ourselves and what it takes to stop telling ourselves stories that keep us safe and small. We all have the opportunity to show up as a leader in our lives - to maximize your positive impact on the world by becoming your best, fully authentic self and supporting others to break past barriers and step into their greatness. Showing up as a Leader is about supporting you on your own leadership journey - regardless of your official title or role.
What if the secret to scaling leadership across 70,000 people wasn't strategy, but staying human? Rosie catches up with Brian Garish, an unapologetically people-first leader who brings equal parts strategy, humility, and heart. From mopping floors at Walgreens at 16 to guiding global teams across 20+ countries, Brian shares real talk about staying grounded, leading with courage, and putting purpose over ego. They dive into the art of listening at scale, why leadership is about how you make people feel, and how culture isn't what's on the wall, it's what happens in the halls. Laughter, reflection, and practical gems unfold, highlighting what it means to lead more humanely, whether at the helm of a global organization or creating impact in everyday spaces.
What if your biggest breakthroughs came after you wanted to quit?
What if the real secret to great leadership isn't about being in charge, but about being in tune with people? Rosie sits down with Alain Hunkins, author of “Cracking the Leadership Code” and a man who's worked with over 3,000 leadership groups across 29 countries. Together, they explore what it really means to lead in today's world (hint: it's way less about commanding and way more about connecting). From redefining leadership as a learnable skill to unpacking the three Cs (Connection, Communication, and Collaboration), this episode dives deep into the systems, habits, and mindsets that create truly human workplaces. Alain challenges us to look in the mirror, get curious instead of defensive, and build workplaces where people actually want to show up. Additional Resources: Get Alain's book: “Cracking the Leadership Code” Connect with Alain on LinkedIn Learn more about The Facilitative Mindset Connect with Rosie on LinkedIn Learn more about Salveo Partners Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network Key Takeaways: Leadership is about facilitating human potential, not authority. Connection begins with consistent, credible, human behavior. Clear communication requires shared understanding, not assumptions. Collaboration thrives on safety, energy, ownership, and purpose. Great leaders operate by design, not default.
Ever feel like your org is sprinting toward growth... but nobody packed the map?
What if not negotiating could be costing you over a million dollars?
What if the biggest thing holding you back as a leader isn't your skills or knowledge, but your inner operating system? ⚙️ In this episode of the ”Courageous Leadership Series,” Rosie Ward unpacks the “faulty programs” we all unknowingly downloaded in childhood that continue to influence our thoughts, choices, and leadership today. From the Overachiever to the People Pleaser to the Control Freak, these subconscious scripts can quietly fuel burnout, silence our voices, or lead us to chase worth in all the wrong places. Drawing on years of research and coaching hundreds of leaders, Rosie reveals the seven core faulty programs (and their sneaky cousins) — and, more importantly, how to start upgrading them.
What if your business could be radically more aligned, energized, and future-ready… just 90 days from now? In this finale of the “Growth on Purpose” series, Claire takes us on one last space-themed adventure, and this time, it's personal. She's ditching the vague strategies and giving you a clear, actionable path to a thriving business future, all within the next 90 days. From your launch pad (aka your Growth on Purpose assessment) to building your moon base (retaining top talent) and heading to Mars (your 3–5 year vision), Claire maps out exactly how to fuel your growth without losing your best people along the way. This episode is your permission slip to stop playing whack-a-mole with your to-do list and finally lead with clarity, confidence, and purpose.
Ever catch yourself “listening” but really just waiting for your turn to talk? Or maybe you jump in with advice before the other person even finishes? We've all been there. In this episode, Rosie flips the script on how we think about listening and challenges us to trade quick fixes and snap judgments for something deeper: listening with a spirit of service.
We often hear the phrase “it's lonely at the top,” but what if that loneliness isn't limited to executives, and something we all carry in different ways? Rosie sits down with Nick Jonsson, the world's leading voice on executive loneliness, to uncover why disconnection has become an epidemic and what we can do about it. Nick's story is both raw and inspiring, as he opens up about his personal battle with isolation, burnout, and the turning point that reshaped his life. Together, they explore why leaders hesitate to be vulnerable, how silence becomes dangerous, and why trust deepens when we ask for help. Most importantly, Nick shares his five practical steps for overcoming loneliness, tools that don't just apply to executives, but to anyone navigating the pressures of modern life. This conversation is a reminder that leadership is human, connection is essential, and none of us are meant to do it alone. Additional Resources: Get Nick's Book - "Executive Loneliness" Connect with Nick on LinkedIn Follow Nick on YouTube Connect with Rosie on LinkedIn Learn more about Salveo Partners Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network Key Takeaways: Loneliness affects everyone, not just executives. Vulnerability builds trust and connection. Fear of judgment keeps leaders silent. Five steps: take stock, seek help, get healthy, build relationships, find purpose. Sharing in good times strengthens us for hard times.
Ever catch yourself thinking, “Did I cause that reaction? Was that my fault?” We've all been there… holding back, walking on eggshells, or spiraling into guilt because of how someone else responded. But here's the truth: their emotions aren't yours to carry. Rosie breaks down why trying to “own” other people's feelings keeps us stuck and drained. She reminds us that our real job is showing up with clarity, curiosity, and groundedness, not managing someone else's emotional world. When we stop taking responsibility for reactions that aren't ours, we open the door to more authenticity, more confidence, and more sparkle ✨ Get ready for a mindset shift that frees you from unnecessary weight and helps you lead, connect, and live with greater ease. Additional Resources: Connect with Rosie on LinkedIn Learn more about Salveo Partners Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network Key Takeaways: We're not responsible for others' emotions. Our role is to show up clearly, curiously, and grounded. Emotional reactions often stem from others' past patterns. Own only what's yours, not someone else's response. Letting go creates space for authenticity and confidence.
What if the thing holding your workplace back isn't a lack of strategy, but a love of comfort? In this episode, Rosie sits down with author M. Gabriela Alcalde to dive into her powerful new book “What Your Comfort Costs Us.” Together, they explore why growth never happens inside the comfort zone, the crucial difference between comfort and true safety, and how culture change is really a team sport. Gabriela shares the “Four Cs” every workplace needs: curiosity, creativity, courage, and care. She also unpacks how our everyday structures and habits often carry hidden values that can hold people back. Through storytelling, compassion, and a little healthy discomfort, this conversation challenges leaders to rethink what it means to build truly human workplaces where everyone can thrive. Additional Resources: Get Gabriela's book: What Your Comfort Costs Us Connect with Gabriela on LinkedIn Discover more on Gabriela's website! Connect with Rosie on LinkedIn Learn more about Salveo Partners Follow PeopleForward Network on LinkedIn Learn more about PeopleForward Network Key Takeaways: Growth requires discomfort, not comfort mistaken for safety. Healing and culture change happen collectively. The Four Cs (curiosity, creativity, courage, care) fuel culture change. Structures must align with organizational values. Storytelling drives empathy and lasting change.
Ever been asked “So… tell me about yourself?” and felt your brain completely freeze?
What if the secret to unstoppable business growth wasn't a new strategy—but how well you understand and support your people?
What if leadership isn't about your job title, but about how you show up, every single day? Tim Lupinacci is back, and he's bringing the fire. As CEO and Chair of one of America's top law firms, Tim's not just talking about leadership from the top… he's on a mission to prove that Everybody Leads. Tim and Rosie dive into why leadership isn't reserved for the C-suite, how small daily practices shape powerful leaders, and what it means to have a “leadership aroma.” He shares the backstory behind his new book, podcast, and nonprofit—all named “Everybody Leads”—and breaks down his go-to acronym for COURAGE
How often do you say “I'm fine” when you're definitely not?
What if leading change didn't have to feel like dragging people uphill in a snowstorm, but instead felt like inviting them on a mission they actually want to join?
If the word “networking” makes your skin crawl, you're not alone
Ready to run your entire business from just one sheet of paper?
Who's calling the shots in your day—your calendar or you?
What if the secret to better leadership isn't in your strategy... but in your relationships?
When life stops going your way… do you sit and sulk or shake the tree?
Rosie is joined by Andrew Adeniyi—first-gen Nigerian American, CEO of AAA Solutions, and author of “The Circle of Leadership”—for a no-fluff convo on what makes cultures click. They dive into Andrew's simple but powerful “Three Ps Framework” (Purpose
In this episode of Growth on Purpose, Claire dives into the final pillar of her growth methodology: Alignment on What Matters
Conflict is a part of life—but it doesn't have to be a showdown ⚔️. Rosie shows us how conflict can actually strengthen relationships! By focusing on core human needs—like feeling seen, heard, and valued—we can stop battling and start building. It's not about giving in, it's about getting creative and finding a win-win. Ready to turn tension into teamwork? Let's go!
In this episode, Rosie chats with Mark McFatridge—Founder & CEO of Quade and former bank president—about what it really means to be unapologetically authentic
Feeling emotionally hijacked lately?
Rosie is back with the brilliant Jen Marr, Founder and CEO of Showing Up LLC, and three-time author. In her new book, ”Lifting Up,” Jen equips leaders with the tools to build healthy, productive teams where no one feels unseen or unsupported. In this episode, they dive into what it really means to lead with heart in a high-tech, high-disruption world. From the “five 80s” to the 2-10 Rule, Jen drops real, practical tools for creating workplaces where people feel seen, supported, and human. If you've ever felt overwhelmed by “soft skills,” this convo will give you the clarity and confidence to lead with connection
It's time to ditch the drama and build real-deal trust
✨ Ever catch yourself making up stories in your head when you don't have all the facts? Yeah, we all do it! Rosie uncovers how our brains fill in the blanks—with fear, judgment, and a whole lot of fiction. She shares a real-life exec moment that proves just how powerful it is to fact-check your internal dialogue. Tune in to learn how owning your story (instead of letting it own you) can help your true sparkle shine ✨
Pressure isn't the enemy — it's your proving ground.
Dr. Marie-Helene Pelletier joins Rosie to flip the script on resilience
What if your legacy wasn't something far off in the future—but something you're building right now? Rosie flips the script on how we think about legacy. Whether you're switching careers, stepping away from a volunteer role, or just chatting with a stranger in line at the airport, every moment counts.
Get ready for a high-vibe convo with Carajane Searcy Moore ✨—President & Partner at Hunt Big Sales—who shares how she stepped into unexpected leadership and found her groove. Carajane joins Rosie to unpack what it really means to "step up and step in" (spoiler: it's not just a buzz phrase) and why clarity beats chaos every time. From redefining middle management to her genius “black pen, red pen” method, this episode is full of practical takeaways, powerful stories, and yes—a mic drop moment you won't forget
No perfect plan? No problem. In this episode of “The Career Bump,” KL shares how curiosity, saying “yes,” and showing up with heart
Let's talk authenticity—not the buzzword kind, but the real, vulnerable, heart-wide-open kind.
Get ready to ✨pivot your being✨ before your doing! In this energizing episode, Rosie sits down with Jim Bishop—executive coach, founder of Conjunction Leadership, and author of “The Adventure Within”—to unpack the beautiful messiness of leadership growth. From ditching outdated success patterns to navigating the midlife awakening (not a crisis!), Jim shares how to break free from “non-productive drama” and lead with more authenticity, calm, and purpose.
Ready to ditch burnout and bring the zing back to your leadership?
What if your greatest leadership strength wasn't speed or decisiveness—but calm?
Ever felt like you're stuck in the passenger seat of your career? Waiting for permission, for the right moment, or for someone to finally recognize your worth? In this episode of The Career Bump, KL Shaw is diving into the mindset shifts that separate those who wait from those who take the wheel and go after what they want. If you've ever second-guessed asking for a raise, hesitated to apply for that dream job, or felt like you needed one more certification before you could level up—this one's for you.
94% of companies know their A-players. Only 6% have a plan to keep them.
Resentment—it's sneaky, it's cringy, and it loves to keep us stuck. But here's the hard truth: it's not about them... it's about us! That nagging “Why do they get to do that, but I don't?” feeling? It's actually a signal that we haven't set a boundary or spoken up for what we need. In this episode, Rosie is unpacking the real root of resentment: unspoken boundaries and unmet needs. By shifting the focus inward, we gain the power to course-correct, communicate clearly, and release the weight of resentment. Tune in for a game-changing perspective and a challenge that could transform your relationships and well-being.
Anger—it's powerful, it's fiery, and sometimes... it's not really anger at all. More often than not, it's just a cover for deeper emotions like fear, grief, or loneliness. And let's be real—it's way easier to say “I'm mad” than to admit “I'm hurt.” In this episode, Rosie is peeling back the layers of anger and learning how to name what we really feel. Because when we do, we connect better—with ourselves and with others. So, here's your challenge: next time you or someone else seems angry, pause and ask—what's really going on?
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