The Leadership Project

Leadership demands constant evolution in our rapidly changing world. Are you asking the right questions as a leader? Are you creating an environment where people can adapt, belong and thrive amid uncertainty?This solo episode distills the most powerful insights from four exceptional leaders featured on the podcast during June, blended with reflections on leadership in today's complex landscape. Kumar Parakala revealed how the pace of technological change is exponential - "the world is changing faster than ever before, but slower than it ever will again." His guidance on embracing AI to augment rather than replace human capabilities offers a powerful framework for technological leadership.Drawing an intriguing parallel between leadership and ChatGPT, both respond best to better questions. Like a skilled prompt engineer, great leaders know that quality questions yield quality answers. Jones Loflin challenged us to stop being "busy for busy's sake," reframing productivity as energy management rather than time management. Creating intentional space between commitments allows creativity to flourish.Dave MacDonald's wisdom on hiring for character over skills resonates deeply: "Resumes show what people have done; character shows what they'll do when no one's watching." This prompted the confronting question: If your workplace were a democracy, would you be re-elected as leader? Your team votes daily through their engagement and trust.Michael Lopez transformed our understanding of change management, explaining that people resist change not from stubbornness but from fear of loss. His concept of letting people "hold the pen" by co-architecting change creates ownership instead of resistance. During these times of global uncertainty, creating environments of safety and belonging for multicultural teams has never been more crucial.Subscribe to the Leadership Project on your preferred platform and follow us on LinkedIn and YouTube for weekly content designed to help you become the leader you wish you always had. Next episode features Randy Lyman exploring emotional awareness in leadership.Send us a textSupport the show✅ Follow The Leadership Project on your favourite podcast platform and listen to a new episode every week!

Why do most transformation efforts fail, even when people are deeply committed? In this thought-provoking episode of The Leadership Project, Michael Lopez, transformation coach and author of Change, unpacks the science behind why change is so hard and what we've been getting wrong all along. With over 20 years of experience helping organizations navigate complex change, Lopez challenges the conventional, rational-only approach and introduces six brain-based strategies to make change stick, both personally and systemically.Rather than focusing on willpower or generic frameworks, Lopez dives into the biology of transformation. He explains how the brain and body respond to change as a perceived threat, which often sabotages even our best intentions. Using real-world examples, including a remarkable case where a failing nuclear plant climbed from the bottom 10 percent to top 10 percent performance in just a year, he reveals how aligning change efforts with our neurobiology unlocks lasting results. His framework begins with understanding what's really going on, fostering individual ownership, and building a movement rather than enforcing compliance.The episode also flips popular beliefs on stress and failure. Lopez makes a compelling case that stress, when properly framed, is not the enemy but a key ingredient for growth. He unpacks how challenge strengthens the anterior mid-cingulate cortex, the part of the brain that helps us overcome difficulty. From building new habits to transforming entire teams, you'll walk away with a practical, science-backed blueprint to navigate change effectively and sustainably. Whether you're leading others or leading yourself, this is a must-listen.

What truly matters more in hiring—skills or character? Dave MacDonald, founder of Better Together Group, brings hard-earned wisdom to this age-old question. After being fired multiple times in his twenties ("I was a lousy employee"), Dave transformed these setbacks into powerful leadership lessons that now guide his successful HR and staffing business.With refreshing honesty, Dave introduces us to his "WTF philosophy"—Work hard, Tell the truth, Finish the job—and explains how these principles shape his approach to identifying standout candidates. Through his powerful furnace metaphor, he demonstrates how the right combination of intensity (the fire), integrity (the firebox), and intentionality (the ductwork) creates teams that genuinely thrive together.Beyond philosophical frameworks, Dave offers practical, immediately applicable interview techniques. Learn why asking for multiple examples of the same character trait reveals authenticity, how pattern interruption separates rehearsed answers from genuine responses, and when to prioritize filling a position versus waiting for the perfect candidate. His advice balances real-world business needs with the pursuit of character-driven cultures.Perhaps most compelling is Dave's vulnerability about his own leadership journey. "I'm still very confident, but I'm also a scared little boy inside at times too," he admits, reminding us that authentic leadership requires acknowledging our full humanity. Whether you're hiring for your organization or preparing for your next career move, this conversation provides a fresh perspective on what truly matters in building successful teams.

Do you wear "busy" as a badge of honor while still feeling behind? You're not alone. In this powerful conversation with productivity expert Jones Loflin, author of Focused as a Bee, we explore how busyness may be the very thing blocking your goals. Drawing from the focused nature of honeybees, Jones shows that true productivity comes not from doing more, but from doing what truly matters.Through his TAD framework (Transfer, Automate, Drop), Jones shares practical ways to reclaim your time. He explains how identifying the "micro purpose" behind tasks, breaking projects into small “one jobs,” and even embracing rest—like bees taking 40 naps a day—can boost your effectiveness and reduce burnout.Jones also uncovers the three main distractions hurting your focus: internal thoughts, external noise, and unclear expectations. His simple strategies help you minimize interference and maximize impact. The key takeaway: performance improves when we remove what's getting in the way. So—what will you eliminate today?

Kumar Parakala delivers a timely wake-up call for leaders stuck in outdated models amid the rise of AI and digital disruption. Drawing from his experience building billion-dollar digital businesses and advising prime ministers, he argues that rigid hierarchies and authoritative styles are no longer effective. Instead, leadership today demands empathy, agility, and a clear sense of purpose.Kumar boldly states, “AI will take your job,” but urges leaders to see this as evolution, not extinction. His seven principles for disruptive leadership—like embracing purpose, challenging norms, and practicing radical accountability—offer a roadmap for staying relevant in a fast-changing world.Most importantly, Kumar emphasizes that human skills like empathy and connection will be more valuable than ever. As machines handle complex tasks, true leadership will be measured not by titles, but by impact. His message is clear: lead the change or be left behind.

Have you ever felt that knot in your stomach before speaking to a group? That flutter of fear that makes you question whether you should just stay quiet? What if that sensation isn't weakness but potential trying to break through?Following my powerful conversation with Israel Duran—who transformed from a boy who would get in trouble to avoid public speaking into a globally sought-after speaker—I'm sharing my own framework for turning speaking anxiety into impact. At the heart of this transformation is what I call the Competence-Confidence Cycle. Unlike what many believe, you don't need to feel confident before taking action. When you take even imperfect steps, you build competence, which naturally grows confidence, creating a virtuous cycle of growth.Great speaking isn't about charisma but clarity. I outline how focusing on just 1-3 memorable points creates more impact than overwhelming your audience with information. Learn why the strategic use of silence—the power of the pause—might be the most transformative speaking tool you're not using. Discover how storytelling and metaphor can move your message from intellectual understanding to emotional connection, making your ideas stick long after your words fade.The next time fear rises before you speak, recognize it not as an obstacle but as a signal that you're about to do something meaningful. This awareness itself is transformative. Remember that effective speaking isn't about perfection but presence. Speak with purpose, with clarity, and with a desire to serve rather than impress. Each time you step forward despite your fear, you strengthen this muscle until one day, speaking becomes not just something you can do, but something you love to do.Send us a textSupport the show✅ Follow The Leadership Project on your favourite podcast platform and listen to a new episode every week!

What if the very thing you fear most holds the key to your greatest impact? For Israel Duran, that fear was public speaking—a challenge so intimidating that, as a young boy with a stutter, he would deliberately get into trouble just to avoid addressing his class. But what once silenced him has now become the foundation of his purpose. Israel has turned his childhood struggle into a powerful mission, helping leaders harness the art of speaking to grow their businesses and amplify their influence.In this deeply personal conversation, Israel reveals that effective communication isn't about polished delivery—it's about authentic connection and clarity. He shares how vision shapes voice, and that vision often comes from the voids we see in the world. His journey from silence to significance challenges us to reframe our past struggles as sources of strength and inspiration, rather than setbacks.Israel also unpacks his proprietary “Service of Speaking Framework,” developed over nearly a decade of working with leaders across industries. From finding your authentic message—the “Stone level”—to navigating the stages of breakthrough, he offers practical tools for anyone looking to grow their influence through speaking. Whether you're a business leader, a seasoned speaker, or someone seeking the courage to be seen and heard, this episode offers transformative insights into how speaking can become a powerful act of service.

Are you building your workplace culture intentionally, or allowing it to form by default? This question lies at the heart of effective leadership, yet few leaders truly understand how their everyday decisions silently shape what it feels like to work in their organizations.Culture isn't the aspirational language hanging on your office walls. It's the unspoken rules that govern how decisions get made, how people treat each other, and how your team functions when no one's watching. As we explore in this episode, we get the behavior we role model, celebrate, and perhaps most critically—the behavior we tolerate. When leaders say they value transparency but withhold information, or claim to support work-life balance while sending midnight emails, they create environments of mistrust where actions and words don't align.Margaret Graziano, bestselling author of "Ignite Culture," brings powerful insights from decades of experience in organizational leadership. Her observation that "people join companies for the mission but stay or leave based on the culture" captures why intentional culture-building matters more than ever in today's competitive landscape. We dig deep into her concept of conscious leadership—creating environments where people feel seen, safe, valued, and empowered—and why this approach transforms both individual performance and organizational outcomes.One particularly transformative distinction we explore is building "accountability without blame." In toxic workplaces, accountability feels like punishment. In thriving cultures, it's an act of respect—a way of saying, "I believe in you, and I know you're capable of this standard." This shift from fear to empowerment fundamentally changes how people show up, speak up, and step up.If your leadership energy became the blueprint for your culture, would you be proud of the result? Would people feel they truly matter? The culture you create is a direct reflection of the clarity, consistency, and courage you bring each day. It requires continuous attention—not a set-and-forget approach, but an ongoing commitment to embodying the values you wish to see throughout your organization. Listen now to discover how to lead culture by design ratSend us a textSupport the show✅ Follow The Leadership Project on your favourite podcast platform and listen to a new episode every week!

What if the workplace friction you face daily isn't just “how things are” but something you can change? In this eye-opening conversation, Margaret Graziano—bestselling author of Ignite Culture—shares how most dysfunction at work is created, not inevitable. Drawing from decades of experience and research in neuroscience and organizational development, Margie empowers us to stop pointing fingers and start looking within.Science shows that 75% of employees experience high stress, much of it due to interpersonal conflict. When triggered, our brain's executive function shuts down, leading to poor decisions. Margie introduces a powerful formula—Performance = Potential - Interference—revealing that removing emotional and relational blockers is just as important as building skills or talent.This episode delivers practical tools like the SCULPT method to shift from reaction to response and strategies for team alignment. Whether you're a leader or team member, Margie's insights offer a roadmap to building healthy, high-performing cultures—starting with one powerful question: What role am I playing in the problems I see?

What if the secret to exceptional customer experience isn't found in customer-facing strategies at all, but in how you treat your own team? This powerful question frames our exploration with Lynn Daniel, CEO of The Daniel Group, who has achieved something remarkable in an industry known for turnover: a team that not only stays but thrives."If you're not listening to your people, they'll find the exit, just like customers do." Lynn's wisdom cuts straight to the heart of effective leadership. While companies obsess over customer feedback, they often neglect using those same listening skills with their employees. Lynn's managers are trained listeners who approach team members with genuine curiosity and support. When someone faces personal challenges, even something as serious as cancer, they aren't sidelined—they're supported. This creates the foundation of loyalty that translates directly to customer experience.Lynn's approach to hiring illuminates another crucial insight: "You can't just hire for skills; you have to hire for culture fit." He seeks collaborators who align with the mission and bring positive energy to the team. For Lynn, culture isn't an abstract concept or a poster on a wall; it's the lived experience of how people treat each other daily. This extends to his leadership style, captured in his philosophy: "If I have to manage your time, you shouldn't be working here." This trust-based approach fosters ownership, empowerment, and ultimately, results. When employees feel properly enabled and trusted, they take initiative without being asked.What small change could you make today to build a workplace where people choose to stay because they feel seen, supported, and inspired? When you lead with purpose and empathy, people don't just remember—they stay. Subscribe to The Leadership Project for more insights on creating cultures where both employees and customers experience true loyalty and connection.Send us a textSupport the show✅ Follow The Leadership Project on your favourite podcast platform and listen to a new episode every week!

The secret to building customer loyalty might be hiding in plain sight—within your own team. In this fascinating conversation with Lynn Daniel, founder and CEO of The Daniel Group, we uncover the powerful connection between remarkable customer experiences and dedicated employees who stay for decades.Lynn's story begins with a resourceful decision in the early 2000s to create a remote work environment long before it became mainstream. What started as a financial necessity evolved into a strategic advantage, revealing that when people are trusted rather than monitored, they respond with loyalty and exceptional performance. Through authentic stories and practical wisdom, Lynn shares how genuine empathy, cultural alignment, and respectful leadership have created an environment where people genuinely want to stay.The conversation explores several game-changing approaches to leadership, including "episodic coaching" that replaces ineffective annual reviews with immediate, context-rich feedback. Lynn's refreshing philosophy—"I'm far more interested in having you beg forgiveness than ask permission"—demonstrates how empowerment and trust become the bedrock of organizational resilience. His three-part mission of having fun, making money, and creating positive impact for clients provides a simple but powerful framework for meaningful work.Whether you're struggling with high turnover or simply want to create a more engaged workplace, Lynn's insights reveal that the fundamental human desires to feel seen, heard, and valued lie at the heart of both employee loyalty and customer satisfaction. The leadership principles shared go beyond theory—they've been tested through economic ups and downs, proving that values-driven leadership isn't just compassionate, it's competitively advantageous.

What drives people to perform at their highest level? Contrary to popular belief, it's rarely money or status. During this thought-provoking solo episode, I reflect on my transformative conversation with Dan Johnson, who built a non-profit organization with over 10,000 dedicated volunteers. His powerful insight? When you lead with genuine humility and humanity, people will walk through fire for you.At the heart of true motivation lie three fundamental pillars: purpose, ownership, and mastery. Purpose goes beyond lofty organizational visions to connect daily tasks with meaningful outcomes. Ownership transforms people from passive task-completers into active co-creators who drive results. Mastery addresses our innate desire for growth and skill development in areas that matter.Yet beneath these pillars runs something even more profound – our deeply human need to feel seen, heard, valued, and connected to something larger than ourselves. As leaders, we have the privilege of satisfying these needs through simple but powerful daily actions: giving the gift of purpose through context and meaning, presence through undivided attention, trust through empowerment, and growth through development opportunities.This approach aligns perfectly with established psychological frameworks like William Glasser's Choice Theory and Abraham Maslow's hierarchy of needs, confirming that true leadership isn't about control but connection. When we prioritize people before processes, purpose before policies, and meaning before metrics, we don't just get good work – we inspire extraordinary performance.What gift will you give your people today? Subscribe to the Leadership Project on YouTube and follow us on social media as we continue our journey to learn together and lead together.Send us a textSupport the show✅ Follow The Leadership Project on your favourite podcast platform and listen to a new episode every week!

What motivates people to give their best effort without financial incentives? This was the central theme of a compelling conversation with Dan Johnson, a nonprofit coach who has galvanized over 10,000 volunteers. Dan's story begins with a moment of disillusionment during political meetings, where he recognized a lack of genuine problem-solving. Realizing he was "in the wrong room," he made the bold decision to redirect his organization toward meaningful impact, even at the cost of losing most of its funding. Surprisingly, his core team remained, proving that shared purpose can outweigh financial security.Dan attributes this loyalty and growth to what he calls the "volunteer paycheck"—a trio of intrinsic motivators: purpose, ownership, and mastery. Purpose keeps people grounded during tough times, ownership fosters empowerment and initiative, and mastery ensures personal growth and skill development. By moving away from top-down leadership and embracing a model of “radical ownership,” Dan saw his volunteer numbers surge from 60 to over 10,000 in just two years, underscoring the power of mission-driven leadership.These principles extend far beyond the nonprofit world. Whether in corporate settings or community projects, people stay committed when they believe in the mission, feel a sense of agency, and see themselves growing. Dan's insight—that “clarity of purpose attracts the right people and repels the wrong ones”—is a guiding truth for any leader. Authenticity and distributed leadership, it turns out, can drive extraordinary commitment—no paycheck required.

Ever wondered if your team's greatest strength could also be its biggest weakness? When expertise becomes tunnel vision, even the most talented teams can miss what matters most.Drawing from my enlightening conversation with Professor Henrik Bresman of INSEAD, co-author of "X-Teams," this episode explores a counterintuitive truth: truly exceptional teams aren't defined by their internal cohesion alone, but by their courage to look outward. While most organizations celebrate alignment and efficient execution, Bresman's research reveals that external focus, deep listening, and genuine co-creation with stakeholders create the real competitive edge.We dive into the "inward trap" that ensnares even the most brilliant teams, keeping them locked in internal debates while customers feel forgotten. You'll discover why presenting fully-baked solutions often backfires, transforming what should be partnerships into mere transactions. Through practical examples and actionable strategies, I'll walk you through the mindset shift from being expertise-driven to connection-focused.The most powerful moment comes when we realize that listening itself is transformative. I share personal experiences where simply creating space for customers to express frustrations—even when those truths were uncomfortable—completely turned around soured relationships. That's because people don't just want solutions; they want to feel heard, valued, and involved in creating their future.Ready to build an X-Team that leads rather than merely executes? This episode offers immediate steps you can take to audit your team's orientation, schedule genuine listening sessions with stakeholders, and move from problem-focused thinking to possibility-centered creation. Your expertise matters, but your ability to connect might matter even more.Subscribe to The Leadership Project for more insights that challenge conventional wisdom and transform how you lead. How might your team's effectiveness change if you spent as much energy looking outward as you do looking inward?Send us a textSupport the show✅ Follow The Leadership Project on your favourite podcast platform and listen to a new episode every week!

Truly innovative teams distinguish themselves not by what happens within their team rooms, but by how actively they engage with the world outside. In a powerful conversation, Professor Henrik Bresman of INSEAD draws from his decades of research and his book X-Teams: How to Build Teams that Lead, Innovate and Succeed to challenge traditional ideas of high-performing teams. He emphasizes that while internal alignment is important, it is no longer enough in today's fast-changing environment. Instead, teams must first reach outward—connecting with knowledge, power, and work structures—before turning inward.Bresman explains that many leaders resist this "external-first" approach because of outdated mental models and a fear of disrupting internal harmony. Ironically, prioritizing short-term comfort by avoiding external feedback undermines long-term success and real team cohesion. The teams that succeed practice key activities like sensemaking, ambassadorship, and task coordination, constantly cycling through phases of exploration, experimentation, and exportation to remain dynamic and relevant.This conversation redefines leadership for an uncertain world, where pretending to have all the answers breeds false security and true innovation comes from admitting what we don't know. Bresman's insights offer practical guidance for leaders at all levels, showing how to build teams that not only adapt to change but actively drive it. Listeners are encouraged to explore more of his work at xleadco and join a growing movement to rethink how teams can lead and innovate in complex environments.

Have you ever wondered why brilliant strategies often fail to deliver results? The answer might lie not in the strategy itself, but in how it's created and communicated throughout your organization.When frontline employees don't understand why they're doing their daily tasks or how those tasks connect to the bigger picture, even the most brilliant strategic plan will falter. This reflective episode explores the concept of "humanized strategy" – a transformative approach championed by Britt Hogue, founder of The Collective Good.Strategy with a soul isn't about replacing logic with emotion; it's about integrating human experience into how we craft, communicate, and live our strategic direction. Rather than a static blueprint delivered from the boardroom, truly effective strategy emerges as a co-created dialogue that resonates throughout the organization. As Mick explains, "When people are part of creating something, they own it, they connect with it, they find their place in it, and they align their own purpose with the broader mission."The episode unpacks three powerful insights: First, strategy should be something you invite people into rather than something you merely present. Second, strategic listening goes beyond words to understand body language, energy, and what's being said in silence. Third, organizational healing is often a necessary precursor to strategic clarity, as unresolved wounds and broken trust create barriers to alignment.What makes a strategy truly great? It includes clear impact on the world, articulates what you will and won't do, remains dynamic yet resilient, aligns macro and micro purpose, and most importantly – resonates on a human level. When strategy speaks to both head and heart, it becomes something everyone can believe in and work toward with genuine commitment.Ready to transform how your organization approaches strategy? Listen now to discover how bringing more listening, trust, and humanity into your strategic process can create alignment that powers breakthrough results. Because when strategy is built with people, not just for people, the impossible becomes possible.Send us a textSupport the show✅ Follow The Leadership Project on your favourite podcast platform and listen to a new episode every week!

Imagine strategy as something felt, not just written—that's the core of Britt Hogue's approach to leadership. After years in corporate roles immersed in data and KPIs, Britt realized that behind every metric were real people making decisions. As the founder of The Collective Good, she now champions "humanized strategy" for mission-driven organizations, focusing on inclusion and collaboration in strategic planning.Britt believes strategy isn't just about decisions—it's about who gets to make them. By involving diverse voices, organizations create strategies that are not only more effective but also embraced by the people who implement them. Her three-phase framework—listen deeply, prioritize transparently, and communicate clearly—helps leaders foster ownership and alignment, whether in a global enterprise or a small nonprofit.In our conversation, Britt shares a powerful truth: inclusion isn't just a moral imperative—it's a business one. When people feel seen and heard, they contribute more, innovate boldly, and own outcomes. As she says, “Do it for the humans, do it for the business”—because in the end, both benefit.

The difference between going fast and going far lies at the heart of this powerful exploration of inclusive leadership language. Drawing from Kyle McDowell's transformative work in "Begin With We," we unpack how a simple shift from "me-centered" to "we-centered" language fundamentally reshapes organizational culture and leadership effectiveness.Language isn't merely semantic—it's biochemical. Research from Judith Glazer shows that our word choices literally change brain chemistry, either triggering defensive responses or opening pathways to trust and collaboration. Those seemingly innocent phrases like "actually, that's a good idea" or "obviously this is the right approach" might carry unintended condescending undertones that silently erode trust. When leaders shift to genuinely inclusive language, they create environments where people feel valued—and as we discover, "when people feel like they matter, they do things that matter."Values statements gain extraordinary power when they begin with "we"—transforming from corporate platitudes into invitations for collective ownership. "We do the right thing" and "We challenge each other to be better" create simultaneous inclusion and accountability. But the real cultural test comes during stress and uncertainty: do team members default to your stated values or revert to self-protection? As Tim McClure warns, "The greatest fear of any organization should be when their most passionate people become quiet." Your culture isn't defined by wall plaques but by daily habits—what you celebrate, reward, and tolerate establishes what truly matters.Ready to transform your leadership through the power of language? Subscribe to The Leadership Project and join us next time as we welcome Britt Hogue to discuss humanizing strategy and the collective good. Together, let's learn how our words become actions, our actions become habits, and our habits shape the cultures we lead.Send us a textSupport the show✅ Follow The Leadership Project on your favourite podcast platform and listen to a new episode every week!

Have you ever led a team where true connection felt out of reach? Kyle McDowell, once a top executive in Fortune 10 companies, had a powerful realization—his leadership was driven by fear, not respect. This moment sparked a transformation that led to his "Begin With We" philosophy: 10 principles focused on shifting from individual success to collective excellence.Kyle shares a pivotal moment—alone in a hotel room, preparing to address 50 leaders—when he realized he needed a new approach. Principles like “We do the right thing always” and “We challenge each other” became the backbone of a more authentic, values-driven leadership style, centered on trust and vulnerability.He explains how even small changes in language—like saying “our team” instead of “my team”—can reshape culture. His ABCs of teamwork are simple but powerful: Add value, Be valued, and Connect to purpose. When leaders meet these needs, teams thrive.Kyle's message is a call to break the cycle of toxic leadership and build something better. Whether you lead five people or five thousand, starting with “we” can change everything.

What makes a team truly creative? It's not beanbag chairs or forced brainstorming sessions—it's about creating an environment where play becomes the engine of productivity.Drawing from the wisdom shared by ex-Pixar executives Jamie Woolf and Dr. Chris Bell, this solocast explores how psychological safety, ownership, and freedom transform workplaces from control centers to creativity hubs. The distinction is powerful: work doesn't need to feel like work when people are in flow.Remember the piano stairs experiment in Stockholm? When regular stairs were transformed into musical piano keys, people abandoned the escalator en masse—not because they suddenly learned stairs were healthier, but because taking them became fun. This same principle applies to our teams. When we create conditions where exploration feels natural and failure feels safe, innovation flourishes without force.True inclusion means moving beyond token representation to genuine agency—people don't want to merely attend the party; they want to help plan it. Creativity emerges not from chaos but from stillness, those moments when our minds settle and make space for insight. And perhaps most importantly, creativity isn't restricted to your design team—it's the procurement specialist finding a novel cost-saving approach, the team leader redesigning workflows to reduce stress, the frontline worker identifying a customer pain point no one else noticed.What would your organization look like if every team member felt empowered to play, experiment, and truly belong? The answer might transform not just your culture, but your results. Ready to create those conditions in your team? Listen now and discover how to unlock the creative potential hiding in plain sight.Send us a textSupport the show✅ Follow The Leadership Project on your favourite podcast platform and listen to a new episode every week!

Ready to transform your workplace from a creativity desert into a thriving innovation ecosystem? Jamie Woolf, the first director of culture at Pixar Animation, and Dr. Christopher Bell of Creativity Partners reveal the unexpected connection between play, power dynamics, and breakthrough ideas.Their conversation shatters common misconceptions about creativity in the workplace. Forget the notion that creativity belongs only in "creative" industries – it's about solving problems that don't yet exist, making it essential for finance teams, healthcare workers, and every organization seeking innovation. The experts share why traditional approaches to workplace culture often miss the mark, especially when it comes to power dynamics between leaders and teams.The discussion takes a fascinating turn when examining how leadership impacts creativity. "75% of people say their boss – not workload or deadlines – is the most stressful part of their day," Dr. Chris reveals, highlighting how unintentional behaviors from well-meaning leaders can stifle innovation. You'll discover practical strategies for flattening power distances without diminishing leadership authority, creating environments where everyone feels empowered to contribute their best ideas.Perhaps most compelling is their exploration of inclusive storytelling as a foundation for creative cultures. They explain the difference between making people "feel" included versus ensuring people "are" included – a distinction that transforms how teams collaborate and innovate. The conversation concludes with a powerful framework for media literacy that applies equally to workplace communications and broader social narratives.Whether you're leading a team that needs a creativity boost, working under challenging leadership, or simply fascinated by what makes innovative cultures tick, this episode offers actionable insights to transform how you approach workplace dynamics. Visit creativity-partners.com to learn more about bringing these principles into your organization.

Ever notice how the leadership qualities you aspire to can vanish under pressure? That calm, thoughtful presence replaced by reactivity and micromanagement when deadlines loom? You're not alone.Drawing on wisdom from executive coach and former Microsoft leader Sabina Nawaz, this episode unpacks a profound truth: pressure doesn't create your leadership tendencies—it reveals them. When stakes rise, we default to ingrained habits rather than our aspirational values. As Sabina brilliantly puts it, "Power doesn't corrupt, pressure does."The conversation explores four game-changing leadership concepts you can implement immediately. First is the Delegation Dial—a visual metaphor for adjusting your leadership approach based on the person and situation rather than defaulting to one style. Next, we confront the uncomfortable reality that power naturally isolates you from truth as people filter feedback and hesitate to challenge your thinking. This isolation explains why organizations suffer most when passionate people go quiet.Perhaps most transformative is the deceptively simple Multiple Meanings Exercise. Before reacting to someone's behavior, pause and consider at least three possible interpretations. This creates space between stimulus and response—space where actual leadership happens. It transforms frustration into curiosity and judgment into empathy.What leadership habits are you practicing daily that will emerge when everything's on fire? Who's telling you the truth when it matters most? How might your assumptions be limiting your effectiveness? This episode will challenge you to answer these questions honestly and provide practical ways to become the leader you aspire to be, especially when it's hardest.Subscribe to The Leadership Project and join us next time as we explore creating cultures of creativity and inclusive storytelling with Jamie Wolfe and Dr. Chris Bell. What leadership challenge are you facing where these concepts could make a difference?Send us a textSupport the show✅ Follow The Leadership Project on your favourite podcast platform and listen to a new episode every week!

Ever caught yourself micromanaging when deadlines loom, despite your best intentions? You're not alone. In this revealing conversation, former Microsoft executive Sabina Nawaz shares her personal wake-up call – discovering an employee crying after one of her meetings – that transformed her approach to leadership under pressure.Sabina introduces game-changing concepts like the "delegation dial" that replaces the problematic on/off switch approach to empowerment. Rather than flipping between complete control and total hands-off leadership, she offers a nuanced framework that adapts to both the situation and the individual's capability. This approach transforms how we develop talent while maintaining quality standards.The conversation explores how power isolates leaders from truth, creating blind spots that undermine effectiveness. Through practical tools like the "shut up muscle" (intentionally not being the first to speak) and the "multiple meanings exercise" (generating several interpretations of a situation before reacting), Sabina provides immediately applicable strategies for breaking free from these leadership traps.Perhaps most valuable is Sabina's insight that what senior leadership saw as your strengths may be perceived completely differently by those reporting to you. This perception shift after promotion creates unexpected challenges that derail many promising leaders – unless they recognize and adapt to this new reality.Ready to transform how you show up as a leader? Listen now and discover actionable strategies from Sabina's new book "You're the Boss: How to Become the Manager You Want to Be and Others Need." Your team will thank you.

Leadership begins with self-leadership. Without mastering the art of leading ourselves, we cannot effectively lead others. This milestone 250th episode explores twelve essential self-leadership practices that can transform how you show up as a leader.Self-leadership starts with clarity about your purpose and values. When you remember your "why" and align your actions with your core values, you create an internal compass that guides decisions and provides motivation during challenges. Similarly, understanding what's within your control versus what you can merely influence prevents the frustration of trying to change the unchangeable, allowing you to direct your energy where it truly matters.Focus and intentionality form another critical dimension of self-leadership. By setting clear priorities, removing interference, and approaching each day and interaction with purpose, you maximize your impact and presence. Great leaders know when to step in and when to step back, and they practice the discipline of being the last to speak—creating space for diverse perspectives before adding their own.Perhaps most visible is a leader's emotional intelligence—the ability to recognize triggers, regulate responses, and express emotions appropriately. As Aristotle suggested, the challenge isn't avoiding emotions but expressing them "with the right person, at the right time, for the right reason, in the right way." This pairs with the power of full presence—giving others your complete attention as perhaps the greatest gift a leader can offer.Self-leadership isn't a destination but a continuous journey of reflection and growth. Through daily practices like asking yourself what went well, what didn't, and what you learned, you build the self-awareness that underlies all effective leadership. Which of these twelve principles resonates most with you? Share your thoughts and subscribe for more insights on leadership, mindset, and human behavior as we continue this journey together.Send us a textSupport the show✅ Follow The Leadership Project on your favourite podcast platform and listen to a new episode every week!

Reclaim your leadership power with Heather Younger, CEO of Employee Fanatix and author of The Art of Self-Leadership. In this powerful conversation, Heather reveals how we often surrender our potential by waiting for others to guide our careers.Sharing her personal journey through adversity, Heather offers strategies to break free from self-imposed limits and face workplace challenges with courage and curiosity. Discover how self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and challenging limiting beliefs unlock your influence and presence.This episode provides practical tools for building resilience, overcoming imposter syndrome, and celebrating progress. If you're feeling stuck or unheard, these insights will empower you to reclaim your potential and create lasting impact.

Courage isn't about being fearless—it's about taking decisive action while feeling afraid. Join us as we dive into the science of bravery, revealing how this essential quality can be deliberately cultivated by anyone seeking to grow as a leader.Drawing from my transformative conversation with former Marine and leadership expert Jill Shulman, I explore how the most courageous people still experience fear—they've simply mastered working through it. True bravery manifests not in grand heroic gestures, but in everyday choices: speaking up when it matters, making difficult decisions, and pushing past self-doubt. These seemingly small acts fundamentally shape who we become.The competence-confidence cycle offers a practical framework for overcoming fear inertia. We don't feel confident until we've proven our capabilities, yet we can't develop competence without taking action. This creates a powerful loop where each brave step builds both skill and self-assurance. The key? Start before you feel ready, because readiness is largely a myth.When we reframe obstacles as opportunities rather than barriers—"the obstacle is the way"—we transform our relationship with challenges. Every difficulty becomes a chance to develop resilience and sharpen our leadership abilities. The greatest rewards come not from avoiding discomfort but from embracing the journey of growth itself.Ready to build your courage muscle? Start small but start today. Take one action that makes you slightly uncomfortable. Use Mel Robbins' five-second rule to push past hesitation. Reframe fear as a signpost pointing toward important growth. What brave step will you take this week? Share your journey with us as we learn and lead together.Send us a textSupport the show✅ Follow The Leadership Project on your favourite podcast platform and listen to a new episode every week!

Have you ever noticed that your proudest moments usually follow your hardest challenges? There's a reason for that. In this eye-opening conversation with Jill Schumann, former Marine Corps officer and leadership expert, we unpack the counterintuitive science showing how discomfort—not comfort—leads to our greatest happiness and fulfillment.Jill demolishes the myth that bravery means fearlessness. Instead, she redefines it as "taking action in the presence of fear for something meaningful to you." This subtle but powerful shift changes everything. Drawing from her military background and master's in applied positive psychology, Jill reveals why our modern obsession with comfort actually diminishes our capacity to live fully.The conversation takes surprising turns as we explore practical strategies you can implement immediately. Learn why "flipping the risk" (focusing on what you'll lose by not acting rather than what might go wrong if you do) can transform decision-making. Discover the power of building a progressive "ladder" of challenges that stretch you just beyond your comfort zone. And find out why having a "brave tribe" of supporters who themselves make you slightly uncomfortable might be your secret weapon for growth.Perhaps most powerfully, Jill shares why viewing obstacles as opportunities rather than barriers can completely shift your life trajectory. "The obstacle is the way" isn't just ancient Stoic philosophy—it's supported by cutting-edge research showing how our character and capabilities develop precisely through difficulty, not despite it.Whether you're facing a major life decision or simply wanting to live with more courage in everyday moments, this conversation offers both the science and practical tools to help you take that brave next step. Because as Jill reminds us, quoting Epictetus: "How long are you going to wait before you demand the best of yourself?"

Are you drowning in tasks yet still feel unproductive? This episode unveils vital productivity hacks that can help you reclaim your time and harness your potential. Join us as we explore powerful insights from Pia Silva, who successfully transformed her business by cutting down inefficiencies while emphasizing value over mere hours worked. We discuss practical strategies that aim to enhance both personal and team effectiveness. You'll learn how removing clutter from your daily routine can lead to a clearer path toward real accomplishments. Mick Spears shares his personal productivity rituals, highlighting time blocking, increased self-awareness, and creating purposeful meetings that drive results. Delve into the significance of reframing your mindset as we discuss integrating gratitude into your daily tasks. Instead of viewing responsibilities as burdens, shift your perspective to see them as opportunities that contribute to team success. Listen to how these principles can cultivate a more supportive and productive workplace where everyone thrives. Are you ready to take your productivity to the next level? Don't miss this opportunity to learn transformative strategies that will help you get more done with less noise. We would love to hear the productivity tips that work for you! Subscribe, share, and leave your review to help us spread these important ideas.Send us a textSupport the show✅ Follow The Leadership Project on your favourite podcast platform and listen to a new episode every week!

Are you feeling overwhelmed by the never-ending hustle yet not seeing the results you desire? This episode delves into the actionable insights from Pia Silva on how to dramatically shift your productivity paradigm by focusing on value, rather than effort. With her backdrop of experience in navigating the treacherous waters of small business ownership, Pia has developed unique strategies that allow entrepreneurs to do less while achieving more.The conversation begins by addressing common misconceptions around productivity and the culture of continuous hustle. Instead of pursuing extensive projects that bog you down, Pia advocates for working smarter through focused efforts. By reimagining how you structure your work and communicate with clients, you can increase efficiency without losing the quality of your deliverables.Pia's journey reveals that personal branding is crucial. She emphasizes that branding goes beyond logos and visuals; it's about creating a distinctive presence and ensuring that your message resonates clearly with your target audience. Her approach not only enhances business visibility but also fosters a sense of trust and authority among clients.Finally, we explore the power of saying no—an essential skill often underestimated. By recognizing when a client or project is not the right fit, you free up your time to invest in opportunities that align better with your expertise, leading to enhanced creativity and job satisfaction.Join us as we unpack these game-changing insights that can revolutionize your work life and lead to greater success! Don't forget to subscribe, share your thoughts, and join our community as we learn and grow together.Don't miss out on Pia's free stream of her book via https://nobsagencies.com/leadershipproject for more strategies on sharpening your brand and boosting your business efficiency. 

Are you ready to revisit your leadership approach and scale effectively? Join us in this engaging episode that dives deep into the core principles of scaling your leadership alongside your business. Reflecting on a recent enlightening conversation with Garrett Delph, we explore crucial strategies that not only enhance your leadership style but also empower your team to flourish. We unpack the importance of defining your purpose and instilling clarity within your organization. As Simon Sinek aptly puts it, "People don't buy what you do; they buy why you do it." Understanding this concept can transform your team's engagement and productivity. Explore the three key pillars of sustainable growth: investing in people, refining processes, and establishing performance accountability. Recognizing that leadership is not just about output but also about cultivating an environment that inspires and motivates is fundamental. Embodying professionalism, integrity, and empathy are vital traits that create trust and allow team members to thrive. The autonomy and freedom matrix emphasizes how to balance oversight with empowerment, ultimately fostering creativity and innovation. Great leaders understand that they don't just command action; they co-create visions with their teams, fostering a culture of shared ownership. We urge you to reflect on your leadership strategy and consider the insights shared here. Share with us the key takeaway you plan to implement in your leadership practice. Tune in and learn about these transformative insights, and as we celebrate our podcast's milestone, don't forget to vote for your favorite guest from our last four years. Your journey toward exceptional leadership starts now—let's grow together!Send us a textSupport the show✅ Follow The Leadership Project on your favourite podcast platform and listen to a new episode every week!

Join us as we welcome Garrett Delph, the visionary founder and CEO of Clarity Ops, who reveals the secrets behind transforming chaotic growth phases into structured success stories. Garrett's journey of building internationally scaled businesses highlights the critical role of leadership in fostering a culture of accountability. He shares how Clarity Ops offers frameworks and tools to tackle the confusion that often accompanies scaling, emphasizing the power of a clear vision to reverse negative spirals. Discover how focusing on people, processes, and performance outcomes can transform your organization into a thriving, resilient entity.Our conversation takes a deeper dive into the alignment of company actions with core values and the practical application of these values through leadership playbooks and frameworks like "PIE and TEA." Garrett explains how consistency and congruence in leadership can enhance employee engagement, ensuring everyone feels seen, heard, and valued. Listen in as we explore the delicate balance between delegation and empowerment versus the pitfalls of micromanagement, shedding light on how leaders can cultivate a positive workplace culture that thrives on trust and growth.Prepare to be inspired by the "autonomy freedom matrix" and the "quad core leadership framework," which Garrett introduces to skillfully navigate the dynamics of empowerment and control. These models offer insights into when to grant autonomy and when to enforce guidelines, all while improving organizational effectiveness. Wrapping up, Garrett shares his philosophy of prioritizing people over profit, inspired by leadership principles from his favorite book, "It's Your Ship" by Michael Abershoff. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone looking to scale their business with clarity and a focus on sustainable success.

Discover the secrets to thriving in a tumultuous job market with our insightful guest, John Tarnoff. Ever wondered how to transform your career after 50 or why storytelling could be your greatest asset in job hunting? Tune in as we dismantle the myths surrounding mid-life career changes, highlighting ways to adapt and leverage your rich reservoir of experience. We'll guide you through the art of personal branding and show you how to make meaningful connections within your network. Plus, get equipped with practical strategies for acing job interviews that emphasize humility and leadership.Don't miss our exciting announcement about the Podcast Awards, where you can cast your vote for your favorite guest from our diverse lineup of over 240 episodes. We also share a sneak peek of our upcoming content featuring Garrett Delph, who will discuss how to transform team culture from chaos to clarity. Our heartfelt thanks extend to our incredible team, including the talented Faris Sadegh. Stay connected with us on social media and subscribe to our YouTube channel for your weekly dose of career inspiration and much more.Send us a textSupport the show✅ Follow The Leadership Project on your favourite podcast platform and listen to a new episode every week!

Unlock the secrets to career resilience and reinvention with John Tarnoff, an executive and career transition coach who has transformed setbacks into successes. We explore the nuanced challenges senior-level executives face, particularly those stemming from outdated business cultures and ageism. John shares his personal journey from the entertainment industry to coaching, offering rich insights into crafting meaningful work opportunities despite a competitive and often biased hiring landscape.Reflecting on job loss and personal relationships, we highlight the parallels and emphasize the importance of preparation before diving into a new role. The discussion turns to the necessity of having a financial safety net, allowing for strategic job searches and avoiding hasty decisions driven by financial strain. You'll hear real-life anecdotes illustrating the pitfalls of rushing into the wrong job, while we also confront the broken hiring system and its impact on older professionals.In our conversation, we underscore the power of LinkedIn and authentic networking. Discover how to craft a compelling "About" section that goes beyond the mundane to capture attention and convey your unique mission. By focusing on relationships with top contacts who genuinely align with your goals, rather than mere resume distribution, you can transform your network into a supportive community. Finally, John sheds light on overcoming ageism, leveraging both strong and weak ties, and reframing perceived limitations into strengths that enhance career longevity and adaptability.

Unlock the secrets of impactful leadership through storytelling with Andrea Sampson, CEO of Talk Boutique and TED-trained speaking coach. Andrea shares her expertise on how leaders can move beyond mere facts and figures to connect with their audiences on an emotional level, transforming how they persuade, build trust, and inspire action. You'll discover Andrea's "story spine" framework, a powerful tool that simplifies storytelling into essential components like environment, characters, and resolution, making it accessible for leaders at any stage. We also cover common storytelling pitfalls, offering practical tips to avoid mistakes like irrelevant details and disconnected narratives, all while emphasizing the importance of contrast and tension to keep your audience engaged.Reflect on the storytelling barriers that may be holding you back and find inspiration to overcome them. This episode encourages listeners to embrace storytelling as a skill that can be practiced and refined, inviting you to share your stories and experiences along the way. Don't miss our next episode with John Tarnoff, where we tackle the broken hiring system and explore strategies for navigating career transitions. Stay connected with us on social media and join our community as we continue to explore the transformative power of storytelling and leadership.Send us a textSupport the show✅ Follow The Leadership Project on your favourite podcast platform and listen to a new episode every week!

Discover the transformative power of storytelling with Andrea Sampson, the CEO of Talk Boutique and a TED-trained speaking coach, who reveals how mastering this skill can elevate your leadership and influence. Andrea shares her journey from a successful advertising career to becoming a TED speaker's coach, offering unique insights into framing complex ideas into engaging narratives. Uncover how understanding your audience and connecting through stories can drive action and create meaningful engagement, making storytelling an invaluable tool for leaders in any field.As we explore the art of effective communication, especially within specialized fields like science and technology, Andrea sheds light on strategies to avoid jargon, use pauses, and employ vocal variety. We discuss the importance of crafting clear messages by focusing on a singular core idea, using signposting to guide your audience, and validating their understanding to ensure your message resonates. The episode provides practical frameworks like the story spine to turn mundane presentations into memorable experiences by connecting on an emotional level with your audience.Andrea challenges the notion that some are not natural storytellers, offering simple frameworks and practical advice to help anyone craft compelling narratives. Learn how to engage listeners by setting the scene, building anticipation, and raising stakes to captivate your audience. Recognize the power of storytelling as an essential leadership skill, not just for entertainment but for inspiring action and growth. By the end of this episode, you'll be empowered to harness storytelling's full potential in your leadership journey and motivated to apply these techniques in various professional settings.

Failure isn't just a stepping stone; it's a wellspring of actionable insights waiting to be tapped. How do we transform the sting of failure into a catalyst for high performance? This episode promises to redefine your understanding of failure, moving beyond the clichés of "fail fast" and "fail forward." We navigate the intricacies of learning from setbacks through self-reflection and after-action reviews, ensuring each misstep becomes a learning opportunity. By aligning our actions with our core values and maintaining a deliberate focus on our goals, we reveal the potent role failure can play in fostering growth and achievement.Send us a textSupport the show✅ Follow The Leadership Project on your favourite podcast platform and listen to a new episode every week!

What if you could transform failure into a catalyst for success? Join us as we unpack this intriguing concept with Jason Schappert, a visionary entrepreneur in the financial technology sector. Growing up in an entrepreneurial family, Jason witnessed firsthand the delicate balance between failure and success. He shares his personal insights on viewing setbacks as learning opportunities, urging aspiring entrepreneurs to embrace challenges as a pathway to growth. Discover how Jason's journey from his family's pest control business to the skies of aviation exemplifies the power of resilience and passion in achieving one's dreams.Our conversation spans the significance of passion and persistence, drawing from Jason's childhood memories and the lessons his father imparted. Jason's early encounters with aviation opened his eyes to the rewards of pursuing what truly lights you up. You'll hear about the importance of goal-setting and visualization in achieving success, inspired by timeless works like "Think and Grow Rich." Jason underscores the richness of aligning personal visions within a team, highlighting that true success is measured not just by financial gains but by the fulfillment of passion, learning, and leadership.Jason's story of overcoming setbacks, including his own missteps during flight lessons, serves as a powerful metaphor for the entrepreneurial journey. He eloquently illustrates how humility and applied learning can turn apparent failures into stepping stones towards greater achievements. With insights into personal finance strategies and the concept of financial "guardrails," Jason encourages listeners to see adversity as an opportunity for growth. Tune in and learn how the right mindset, coupled with the support of a dedicated team, can drive you to turn failures into a triumphant comeback.

Transform your approach to feedback with insights from Sue Anderson, the brilliant mind behind "Feedback Fitness." Discover how to turn feedback from a dreaded encounter into a gift that propels growth and success within your team. Throughout our conversation, Sue unveils her three-part framework—warm-up, workout, and cool-down—to cultivate a feedback culture that thrives on trust, consistency, and reflection. By personalizing feedback to meet individual preferences, you can shift perceptions and foster an environment where feedback is not only welcomed but also eagerly anticipated as a cornerstone of personal and professional development.Join us as we recognize the collaborative spirit that powers the Leadership Project, celebrating the hard work of our incredible team, including Faris Sadek's outstanding video editing skills. With a focus on creating a feedback-rich culture, we highlight the importance of regular check-ins to build trust and psychological safety. Stay engaged with our mission and connect with us on various platforms as we continue to learn and lead together. Keep an ear out for our next episode featuring Jason Shepard, who will explore how embracing failure and learning can pave the way to success.Send us a textSupport the show✅ Follow The Leadership Project on your favourite podcast platform and listen to a new episode every week!

What if you could change your workplace forever with just one conversation? Join us for an insightful session with Sue Anderson, a leading coach and the brilliant mind behind "Feedback Fitness." Together, we unravel why the very concept of feedback often triggers negative emotions and how our "feedback footprint" can impact our perception of it. Whether you view feedback as a growth opportunity or a critique, Sue offers a new perspective by reframing feedback as an offer rather than a mandate, empowering both the giver and the receiver.Emotions run deep in feedback exchanges, and understanding this emotional landscape is key to fostering trust and transparency within teams. We explore the notion of "armoring up" and how vulnerability can transform the quality of feedback, ultimately reducing the risk of missed opportunities and high turnover. Through Sue's fitness analogy, feedback is broken down into manageable phases—warm-up, workout, and cool-down—to ensure clarity and alignment in communication, emphasizing the platinum rule of treating others how they wish to be treated.Our discussion extends to the practical application of feedback strategies, centered on establishing permission and intent to create psychological safety. Learn the nuances of delivering feedback that aligns with individual preferences and organizational goals. With insights inspired by Viktor Frankl, Sue illustrates the power of choice in how we respond to feedback, encouraging continuous improvement. Tune in for invaluable resources and practical guidance from Sue Anderson, designed to elevate your feedback skills and cultivate a more open and productive workplace culture.

Unlock the secrets to effective crisis management and leadership with insights from Carl Scully and Mark Goodwin as they recount their experiences during the 2005 Cronulla riots. This episode promises to equip you with valuable lessons on strategic planning, decision-making under pressure, and the art of adaptive leadership. Dive into the intricacies of police command structures and discover how swift, informed decisions can avert chaos and restore order. Carl and Mark shed light on leading in high-stress environments, where balancing autocratic and democratic styles is key to empowering those on the front lines. Their stories emphasise the importance of nurturing future leaders and fostering a work culture prioritising psychological safety and collaboration. As they share their personal journey, you'll gain perspective on the emotional toll of public service, the challenges of media scrutiny, and the personal sacrifices inherent in leadership roles.Reflecting on their careers, Carl and Mark offer candid insights into the delicate balance between professional obligations and personal life. They share thought-provoking quotes and favourite literary works that have shaped their approach to leadership. This episode is a homage to the resilience and dedication required in public service, inviting listeners to join the Leadership Project in a journey of growth, learning, and leadership excellence.

Join us as we commemorate the 19th anniversary of the Cronulla Riots with Carl Scully, former New South Wales Police Minister, and Mark Goodwin, former Deputy Chief Commissioner, who unravel the complexities and misinformation surrounding this historical event. Why is Cronulla unfairly labeled the epicenter of racial tension in Australia, and should these events be called riots at all? Our guests offer a fresh perspective, challenging misconceptions and the media's sensational headlines, and providing insight into the societal and psychological factors at play.Discover how media narratives and text messaging played a pivotal role in escalating tensions and shaping public perception of the riots. We scrutinise the media's penchant for focusing on racism and tribalism while glossing over the nuanced reality of these events. Carl and Mark provide a comprehensive overview of the media's responsibility and how its portrayal has both fueled and distorted public understanding of the Cronulla incidents. Our conversation sheds light on the broader context, urging listeners to consider the complexities of human behaviour and cultural dynamics.Our journey with Carl and Mark also offers invaluable lessons in leadership and crisis management. Reflecting on their experiences during the riots, they share strategies for navigating challenges and guiding teams through turbulent times, emphasising the role of effective leadership in mitigating conflict. As we conclude this first installment of our two-part series, we invite you to explore these insights and their impact, setting the stage for the next episode where the discussion on leadership and social media influence continues.

Unlock the secrets to transformative leadership by blending ancient wisdom with modern insights in this compelling episode. Join us as we explore the enduring influence of Aristotle, the power of collective effort through an inspiring African proverb, and the caring leadership philosophy of Teddy Roosevelt. Our engaging conversation with business philosopher Anders Inset reveals how these timeless lessons can redefine success by moving beyond societal expectations to foster personal growth and authenticity. Discover how aligning leadership with one's true self can create a more profound impact, forming the five pillars of a leadership philosophy that thrives on care and intentionality.Furthermore, we dive into the art of empowering leadership, where trust and freedom of choice reign supreme. Drawing on the insights of Otto Scharmer and Dr. John Demartini, we uncover how profound focus and deep listening can harness the collective potential of teams, leading to long-lasting success that benefits all stakeholders. Finally, insightful guests Carl and Mark share strategies for leading through crisis, offering practical advice and inspiration on resilience under pressure. This episode provides an enriching narrative on mastering the three dimensions of leadership—self, team, and business—equipping listeners with the tools to navigate the complexities of leadership with grace and strength.Send us a textSupport the show✅ Follow The Leadership Project on your favourite podcast platform and listen to a new episode every week!

What if success isn't about reaching the top, but rather about continuous growth and learning? Join us as we sit down with Anders Indset, the renowned business philosopher, who shares his remarkable journey from being a hardcore capitalist to embracing a life steeped in philosophical wisdom and ethical decision-making. Anders unveils the profound insights he gained while navigating the complex landscape of philosophical texts in Germany and how these experiences now inform his views on the ethical challenges posed by modern technology.In a world obsessed with social media and external validation, we explore how these influences can distort our perception of success. Anders and I discuss the transition from finite games to the infinite game of life, emphasizing the importance of reflection over reaction in our educational and social systems. With the rise of AI and technology, we ponder the future of social media influencers and the sustainability of attention-seeking models. We also delve into the intriguing concept of reclaiming personal agency through micro ambitions, inspired by Michelangelo's creation of David.Anders shares his thoughts on maintaining personal growth and agency amidst the algorithmic influence of social media, reflecting on life's path as a non-linear journey filled with infinite possibilities. We discuss Norway's emergence as a powerhouse in diverse athletic fields and the role of strong mentor relationships and a blend of individualism and collectivism in achieving success. To wrap up, we touch on critical thinking and existentialism, drawing inspiration from Albert Camus and Søren Kierkegaard, and reflect on the value of letting go of ego in pursuit of a richer, more meaningful life.

Unlock the secrets to evolving from an expert to a catalyst in leadership with insights from my conversation with Dr. Carol Parker Walsh. Discover how you can empower your team to thrive by asking the right questions and creating a supportive, people-centered culture. Inspired by Liz Wiseman's "multipliers" concept, we explore how to prevent becoming a bottleneck in your team's growth. By fostering an environment where team members feel psychologically safe and valued, leaders can bridge the gap between lofty expectations and the real experiences of their employees, leading to a more cohesive and motivated workforce.Join me as we discuss the transformative leadership journey, emphasizing trust and transparency as the pillars of success. Reflecting on the shift towards catalyst leadership, we highlight the importance of aligning individual strengths with team goals and embracing vulnerability as a strength. This episode promises to challenge your current leadership mindset and inspire you to create an environment that not only motivates but also multiplies potential. Stay tuned for our next discussion with business philosopher Anders Insett, where we'll further dissect the mindset behind high performance.Send us a textSupport the show✅ Follow The Leadership Project on your favourite podcast platform and listen to a new episode every week!

Discover how Dr. Carol Parker Walsh transformed her career from labor and employment law to becoming a leading voice in executive coaching and team development. Join us as Dr. Walsh shares her journey and the pivotal insights she's gained along the way. Learn how her desire to create harmonious workplace environments led her to focus on preventing conflicts before they escalate, shining a light on the importance of proactive, people-centered leadership.Explore the essential role trust plays in building high-performance teams and how discrepancies between a company's stated values and actual employee experiences can erode trust and engagement. Dr. Walsh unpacks the critical importance of psychological safety and offers strategies to create an environment where employees feel safe to express ideas and contribute meaningfully. By acknowledging imperfections and fostering a culture of co-creation, organizations can enhance engagement and cultivate a dynamic work culture.We also examine the challenges of transitioning to a people-focused leadership style, with insights into embracing vulnerability and leveraging individual strengths within a team. Listen in as we discuss how openness and humility can drive team cohesion, and the necessity of resetting when dynamics aren't working. Finally, discover how to access Dr. Walsh's rich resources for those eager to champion people-centered leadership in their organizations, ensuring a lasting impact and a transformative work culture.

What if you could turn 2025 into your most fulfilling year yet? Join us as we uncover the secrets to joy, purpose, and gratitude with insights from renowned experts like Michael Bungay-Stanier, Zach Mercurio, and Dr. Martin Seligman. Discover how to align your actions with your core values and attract opportunities that truly resonate. We'll guide you through transformative strategies to identify what energizes you and how to live a life of meaningful purpose. With practical advice on incorporating daily gratitude and distinguishing fleeting pleasures from lasting fulfillment, you'll be inspired to take control of your path and vision for success.But that's not all—get ready to manifest your best year with insights from Dr. John Demartini, Timothy Gallwey, Brendon Burchard, and James Clear. We'll clarify manifestation misconceptions, focusing on the power of action and reducing interferences like doubts and distractions. Learn how small, consistent actions can lead to significant results using James Clear's "Atomic Habits." From setting daily intentions to time-blocking and being present, we introduce the VISION framework to help you achieve your goals. Plus, we'll explore leadership and personal growth, spotlighting an upcoming conversation with Dr. Carol Parker-Walsh, promising insights into inclusive leadership and building high-performance teams. Let's embark on this journey together to make 2025 a remarkable year of learning and leading.Send us a textSupport the show✅ Follow The Leadership Project on your favourite podcast platform and listen to a new episode every week!

Join us as we wrap up Season 4 of the Leadership Project podcast, where we spotlight the amazing team that makes it all happen behind the scenes. Meet Joan Gozon, Gerald Calibo, Faris Sedek, and Sei Spiers, the powerhouse quartet whose efforts have inspired leadership journeys around the globe. Joan expands on her digital marketing wizardry that has helped us reach listeners worldwide, Gerald reveals the art of audio editing blended with social media savvy, Faris shares his passion for crafting captivating visuals, and Sei reflects on the rewarding path as co-creator and general manager. Together, we uncover a heartfelt story of an audience member whose life was changed by the podcast, reminding us of the incredible impact of our collective efforts.Apart from celebrating our amazing team, this episode dives into personal growth, resilience, and emotional intelligence. Discover how embracing vulnerability has been a powerful catalyst for self-awareness and growth. We share insights inspired by Aristotle on channeling emotions constructively and redefine success beyond material gains. Our team members open up about lessons learned and favorite quotes that guide them. From Mario Puzo to Dumbledore, find out how words inspire us to aim higher and strive for positive change. As we anticipate future endeavors, including face-to-face meetings and expanding our team, we remain committed to creating content that leaves a meaningful mark on the world.Send us a text World of Work Experts on the People and Performance PodcastInterviews with experts and business leaders focused on ways to inspire employees.Support the show✅ Follow The Leadership Project on your favourite podcast platform and listen to a new episode every week!

Unlock the secrets of transformative leadership with insights from our enlightening conversation with Adeline Tiah. What if reinvention is the superpower you need to thrive in today's fast-paced world? Adeline shares her journey from a corporate career to a purpose-driven path, offering a roadmap for aligning your actions with the legacy you desire. Discover the REINVENT framework, a tool for fostering a risk-taking mindset and entrepreneurial thinking, supported by groundbreaking research from Harvard Business School. Connect the dots between quiet quitting, finding deeper meaning in work, and inspiring innovation and adaptability. This episode promises to equip you with the insights and strategies you need to lead a more meaningful future.As we navigate the era of AI, leadership is evolving from traditional knowledge-based power to new superpowers like systems thinking and human creativity. AI democratizes information, but how do you turn that into actionable strategies? We discuss the essential skills leaders need: interpreting AI insights, leveraging emotional intelligence, and embracing a growth mindset for continuous reinvention. Join us as we challenge you to reflect on your growth journey, embrace the unknown, and take bold steps towards your vision. Stay engaged with our community through multimedia platforms and connect with us on social media for ongoing inspiration in your leadership journey.Send us a textSupport the show✅ Follow The Leadership Project on your favourite podcast platform and listen to a new episode every week!

What if the future of work isn't about finding the right job, but creating one that's never existed? Join us as we welcome Adeline Tiah, a trailblazing coach and author of "Reinvent 4.0," who shares her journey from the corporate world to becoming a thought leader in leadership transformation. Adeline introduces her REINVENT model, a groundbreaking toolkit for embracing risk, fostering emotional intelligence, and thriving amidst rapid change.Our enlightening conversation navigates the evolving landscape of work, where adaptability and continuous learning reshape our career trajectories. With 60% of new graduates stepping into roles not yet imagined, Adeline's insights illuminate the value of transversal skills such as curiosity and empathy. Discover how these abilities not only unlock diverse opportunities but also redefine leadership in today's dynamic environment, as seen through Adeline's own transition to a leadership coach.As we stand on the brink of an AI-driven future, the episode delves into the delicate balance of leveraging technology while maintaining ethical integrity. Adeline sheds light on the transformative role of AI, from preserving corporate knowledge to enhancing productivity, yet cautions against potential pitfalls. Explore the critical importance of ethical leadership and systems thinking in an era brimming with innovation and learn how to navigate these challenges with foresight and responsibility.

Unlock the secrets to collective success with insights from Rasmus Holst, CEO of Zensai, as we shift the focus from individual achievements to empowering teams. Learn how the "human success platform" can drive both business and customer success through the guiding principles of "Learn, Perform, Engage." Discover the crucial role of psychological safety in team dynamics and how leaders can foster an environment where open dialogue and collaboration thrive. We'll discuss practical strategies like embracing continuous feedback and aligning purpose with performance, ensuring your team feels inspired and motivated to excel.As we conclude this enlightening conversation, get ready to explore the future of leadership and adaptability in our next episode. We'll be joined by Adeline Tia, an experienced executive coach, to discuss the evolving landscape of leadership and the vital role adaptability plays in the future of work. This is essential listening for those eager to reinvent their leadership approach and stay ahead in an ever-changing environment. If you find value in our discussions, we would love to hear your thoughts and appreciate your rating and review on your preferred podcast platform.Send us a textSupport the show✅ Follow The Leadership Project on your favourite podcast platform and listen to a new episode every week!

Rasmus Holst, CEO of Zensai, challenges the status quo of human resources by introducing a groundbreaking concept: the "human success platform." Imagine viewing employees as integral to a company's triumph, much like we cherish customers. Rasmus shares his journey to this innovative perspective, emphasizing that thriving workplaces are built when we invest in the individual success of our team members. This episode promises to unravel how organizations can foster environments where people not only excel but also become advocates for the culture they've helped to create.We navigate the intricacies of measuring human success, drawing parallels between how businesses assess customer success and employee engagement. Just as consistent training leads to athletic triumph, sustained learning and development spur organizational prosperity. By treating employees as invaluable assets, companies can better predict long-term success, avoiding pitfalls like poor goal alignment and high turnover. Through Rasmus's insights, listeners will uncover the power of prioritizing employee growth and the profound effects it can have on overall business performance.Leadership transparency and compassion take center stage as we consider the pivotal balance between human success and business growth. We explore real-life examples, such as relocating a development team for their well-being, to illustrate the long-term benefits of prioritizing people. Through Rasmus's shared experiences and influences from leaders like Stephen Covey and Richard Branson, we envision a workplace where genuine engagement and passion drive peak performance. This transformative discussion on human success aims to revolutionize HR landscapes globally, setting a new standard for leadership and organizational culture.Send us a textSupport the show✅ Follow The Leadership Project on your favourite podcast platform and listen to a new episode every week!