Podcast appearances and mentions of Dan Pontefract

Retirement. You could wing it. Why not design it? Our next group proram starts in September and is limited to 10 people. The Very Early Registration discount (45%) ends on June 21st. Learn more here. _______________________ In our last conversation, Dan Pontefract gave us a demographic wake-up call. The future of work is aging, and longer lives will require new thinking about careers, retirement, and contribution. Today, Scott Siff brings that to the practical level: how do we create better pathways for people who want to keep contributing, but not necessarily in the same way? And what are employers missing when they overlook experienced talent? His story begins with his father's frustrating search for a new job in his 70s, and builds into a larger conversation about age bias, unretirement, labor shortages, and the need to redesign work for longer lives. __________________________ Bio Scott Siff is the founder and CEO of Pivoters, a job-matching platform focused on helping people 55+ connect with employers seeking experienced talent. His story begins with his father's frustrating search for a new job in his 70s, and builds into a larger conversation about age bias, unretirement, labor shortages, and the need to redesign work for longer lives. Siff is also a founder and Managing Partner at Quadrant Strategies, a Washington, D.C.-based strategy research and communications firm. His background includes advising senior leaders, Fortune 50 companies, and high-profile political figures on public affairs, brand, reputation, crisis, competitive positioning, and strategic communications. Earlier in his career, Siff served as CEO of BAV Consulting, Vice Chair of the global research firm PSB, and worked at the U.S. Department of Justice as a prosecutor and later as counsel in the Environment Division. He earned a B.A. from Harvard University, Phi Beta Kappa, and a J.D. from Harvard Law School, where he was an editor of the Harvard Law Review. Scott Siff joins us from Washington, DC. _______________________ For More on Scott Siff  Pivoters _______________________ Other Retirement Podcast Conversations You May Like The Portfolio Life – Christina Wallace The Unretirement Life – Richard Eisenberg Working Identity – Herminia Ibarra _________________________ Best Books on Retirement Our reccomendations and summaries are here _________________________ Mentioned in This Episode The Future of Work is Grey – Dan Pontefract _________________________ About The Retirement Wisdom Podcast There are many podcasts on retirement, often hosted by financial advisors with their own financial motives, that cover the money side of the street. This podcast is different. You'll get smarter about the investment decisions you'll make about the most important asset you'll have in retirement: your time. I help people who are retiring, but aren't quite done yet, discover what's next and build their custom version of their next life. A meaningful retirement doesn't just happen by accident.Schedule a call today to discuss how the Designing Your Life process created by Bill Burnett & Dave Evans can help you make your life in retirement a great one — on your own terms. About Your Podcast Host Joe Casey is an executive coach who helps people design their next life after their primary career and create their version of The Multipurpose Retirement.™ He created his own next chapter after a 26-year career at Merrill Lynch, where he was Senior Vice President and Head of HR for Global Markets & Investment Banking.Joe has earned Master's degrees from the University of Southern California in Gerontology (at age 60), the University of Pennsylvania, and Middlesex University (UK), a BA in Psychology from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst, and his coaching certification from Columbia University.In addition to his work with clients, Joe hosts The Retirement Wisdom Podcast, ranked in the top 1% globally in popularity by Listen Notes, with over 2 million downloads. Business Insider recognized Joe as one of 23 innovative coaches who are making a difference. He's the author of Win the Retirement Game: How to Outsmart the 9 Forces Trying to Steal Your Joy. ________________________ Wise Quotes On Rethinking Work“At 55, you may well have 30 years of work life left, but you probably have 25 really good years, which is the same length of career as from the ages 25 to 50.”On What Employers Are Missing “There's a pool of 40 million unused workers ready to go, better workers, and they're sitting there on the sidelines, begging to get in the game.”On Reframing Aging “A 65-year-old today is like a 45-year-old 20 years ago. And I'm not saying that theoretically, that's what the science is finding.” __________________________  

Take charge of your future. Our next group proram starts in September and is limited to 10 people. The Very Early Registration discount (45%) ends on June 21. Learn more here. — Dan Pontefract spent two decades building leadership, culture, and engagement inside high-tech and telecom organizations, and never once thought seriously about age. Then, in his early fifties, he had a wake-up call. It sent him to look under a rock he'd never lifted, where he found “an absolute cavern of issues.” The result is his sixth book, The Future is Grey: The Untapped Value of Age in the Workforce. Dan lays out the coming “bell to bulb” demographic inversion and the risks for organizations ignoring it. For individuals, he reframes the whole arc of a working life, from the language of generations (which he rejects as an ageist cognitive bias) to three universal career eras: Rivers, Rocks, and Rubies. That demographic inversion means experience will become more scarce and valuable. The through-line is don’t retire,  rewire instead. He shares stories of people who kept working or returned to work in a different way, which brings his concept of the “experience dividend” to life. ________________________ Bio Dan Pontefract is a renowned leadership and culture strategist, author, and keynote speaker with over two decades of experience in senior executive roles at companies such as SAP, TELUS, and Business Objects. Since then, he has worked with organizations globally, including Salesforce, Amgen, State of Tennessee, Nestlé, Canada Post, Autodesk, BMO, Government of Canada, Manulife, Nutrien, UBC, McGill University, Virgin Media O2, City of Toronto, among others. Dan has firsthand experience in turning leaders and corporate cultures into a competitive advantage. In addition to The Future of Work Is Grey, Dan has written five other books: WORK-LIFE BLOOM, LEAD. CARE. WIN., OPEN TO THINK, THE PURPOSE EFFECT, and FLAT ARMY garnering multiple awards including the Thinkers50 Top New Management Book and the Axiom Business Book Awards Gold Medal. Dan has also written for Forbes, Harvard Business Review, Leader to Leader, The Globe and Mail, Inc., among other outlets. Dan is a renowned keynote speaker who has presented at four TED events and delivered over 600 keynotes. He is an adjunct professor at the University of Victoria and has received over 25 personal awards. Dan’s career is interwoven with corporate and academic experience, coupled with an MBA, B.Ed, and multiple distinctions. Notably, Dan is listed on the Thinkers50 Radar, HR Weekly’s 100 Most Influential People in HR, PeopleHum’s Top 200 Thought Leaders to Follow, and Inc. Magazine’s Top 100 Leadership Speakers. ___________________________ The Future is Grey: The Untapped Value of Age in the Workforce Website ___________________________ Other Retirement Podcast Conversations You’ll Love The Second Curve of Life – Arthur C. Brooks Design a Phased Retirement – Anna Rappaport Rewirement – Helen Dennis ___________________________ Wise Quotes On Wisdom “Wisdom is to the experience dividend what oxygen is to fire.” On Retiring Retirement “Instead of using the word retire, I very much encourage people to use the word rewire.” On Demographic Shifts “We're shifting from a bell-shaped society to a bulb-shaped society, and it's going to change the talent makeup of your organization very, very soon.” ___________________________ About The Retirement Wisdom Podcast There are many podcasts on retirement, often hosted by financial advisors with their own financial motives, that cover the money side of the street. This podcast is different. You'll get smarter about the investment decisions you'll make about the most important asset you'll have in retirement: your time. About Retirement Wisdom I help people who are retiring, but aren't quite done yet, discover what's next and build their custom version of their next life. A meaningful retirement doesn't just happen by accident. Schedule a call today to discuss how the Designing Your Life process created by Bill Burnett & Dave Evans can help you make your life in retirement a great one — on your own terms. About Your Podcast Host Joe Casey is an executive coach who helps people design their next life after their primary career and create their version of The Multipurpose Retirement.™ He created his own next chapter after a 26-year career at Merrill Lynch, where he was Senior Vice President and Head of HR for Global Markets & Investment Banking. Joe has earned Master's degrees from the University of Southern California in Gerontology (at age 60), the University of Pennsylvania, and Middlesex University (UK), a BA in Psychology from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst, and his coaching certification from Columbia University. In addition to his work with clients, Joe hosts The Retirement Wisdom Podcast, ranked in the top 1% globally in popularity by Listen Notes, with over 2 million downloads. Business Insider recognized Joe as one of 23 innovative coaches who are making a difference. He's the author of Win the Retirement Game: How to Outsmart the 9 Forces Trying to Steal Your Joy.

The workforce is aging faster than at any point in human history, and most organizations are responding by quietly writing off the very people who hold their hardest-won knowledge. Dan Pontefract calls the cost of that denial AgeDebt, and he believes it's building toward a crisis as slow-moving and as expensive to ignore as climate change.In this conversation, Dan Pontefract joins Charles Good to make the case that age is an asset, not a liability, and that the organizations willing to act now can convert their Age Debt into what he calls the Experience Dividend.Drawing on his new book The Future of Work Is Grey: The Untapped Value of Age in the Workforce, Dan throws out the tired generational labels (Boomers, Gen X, Millennials, Gen Z) and replaces them with a more useful lens: Rivers(early-career, curious, fluid), Rocks (mid-career, resilient, the bridge generation), and Rubies (later-career, wisdom polished by time). His argument is both a wake-up call and a blueprint: the future of work is grey if leaders stay stuck in habitual patterns, but it can be gold if they learn to put Rivers,Rocks and Rubies on stage together.Whether you see yourself as a River, a Rock, or a Ruby today, this episode will give you a new language for one of the most overlooked sources of value in any organization, along with the everyday habits to start building it tomorrow.What You'll Learn in This EpisodeWhat "Age Debt" actually is, and why Dan compares it to climate change: a slow-moving crisis leaders have had the data on for decades, where the cost of doing nothing compounds quietly until it's enormous to fixThe Rivers, Rocks, and Rubies framework - three career-stage archetypes that replace birth-year labels, and why Dan says generational branding is actively harmful to good decision-makingWhy ageism is "the last socially acceptable -ism": the comments and assumptions about age that still pass unchallenged when equivalent remarks about race or gender never wouldHow ageism hits all three groups - Rivers dismissed as "not ready," Rocks written off as "stuck," Rubies treated as "expired" and Dan's own experience of being seen as both "too young" and "too old"The grey-to-gold mindset shift - what keeps organizations stuck in habitual patterns, and what changes when leaders stop fighting experience and start designing around itThe Experience Dividend - the measurable value of integrating insight, mentorship, and continuity across every age in your workforceEveryday Age — the small, repeatable habits any leader can start tomorrow to move from age-aware to age-savvy, no corporate program requiredAbout Dan PontefractDan Pontefract is a leadership strategist, keynote speaker, and author of several influential books on work, culture, and leadership, including Lead. Care. Win., Open to Think, The Purpose Effect, and Flat Army. His latest book is The Future of Work Is Grey: The Untapped Value of Age in the Workforce. His work focuses on helping organizations rethink how they create value through their people across every stage of life and career.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Age Debt and the Aging Workforce03:13 Understanding Age Debt and Its Implications05:20 The Demographic Apocalypse and Longevity Issues08:21 The Impact of Ageism in the Workplace11:00 the Gray vs. Gold Metaphor in Work13:54 Rethinking Generational Labels: Rivers, Rocks, and Rubies21:21 Personal Experiences with Ageism30:39 The Ruby Experience: Working Beyond Retirement36:24The Double Loss of Aging WorkforceSubscribe to The Good Leadership Podcast: [⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Apple Podcasts⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠] | [⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠] | [⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠]LinkedIn: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠linkedin.com/in/charlesagood⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Substack Channel (Outlearn to Outperform): ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠charlesgood.substack.com⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn Newsletter (The Outlearn Advantage): [⁠⁠⁠Subscribe⁠⁠⁠]

Many organizations are planning for AI disruption. Far fewer are planning for demographic disruption.In this episode of foHRsight, Dan Pontefract joins Naomi Titleman Colla to unpack what he calls “age debt” — the growing organizational risk created when companies ignore longevity, ageism, workforce demographics, and the loss of institutional wisdom.The conversation challenges the way we think about generational labels at work and asks a bigger question: what happens when organizations become so focused on optimization and speed that they stop valuing experience altogether?Dan introduces a new framework for thinking about careers through evolving life stages instead of fixed generational identities, and explores why the future of work will require organizations to rethink career paths, knowledge transfer, leadership structures, and workforce wellbeing.For HR leaders navigating talent shortages, succession concerns, burnout, and constant change, this episode offers a more human and sustainable lens on what future-ready organizations actually need.About Our GuestDan Pontefract is an award-winning author, leadership strategist, keynote speaker, and adjunct professor at the University of Victoria. A former Chief Learning Officer at TELUS, Dan has spent decades helping organizations rethink leadership, learning, culture, and the future of work. His latest book, The Future of Work Is Grey explores the overlooked workforce risks tied to age, longevity, and organizational wisdom. Website & free assessments: www.thefutureofworkisgrey.comTake the Personal Age Assessment to see how prepared you are for age debtTake the Organizational Age Assessment to benchmark your companyStay connected with foHRsightTo sign up for our monthly newsletter, foHRsight, click HERE Follow us on LinkedIn:Mark EdgarNaomi Titleman Collafuture foHRward  Follow us on InstagramFor more information on our private community for forward-thinking HR leaders, including how to join our next Manager-Director HR Leader cohort launching this spring, visit our website at futurefohrward.com/community. We are also currently welcoming new members in our CHRO and VP+ HRBP & Talent cohorts. Don't miss your chance to join the community you've been missing!Support the show

Leadership strategist and author Dan Pontefract joins Bruce to unpack the "age debt crisis": the organizational failure to plan for and value older workers and why a demographic shift from a bell-shaped to a bulb-shaped workforce means companies can no longer afford to ignore age. Dan explains why simply replacing experienced employees with AI is a dangerous short-term play, how companies like BMW and Unilever are rethinking age inclusivity in the workplace, and what both individuals and organizations need to do now to prepare for a world where working into your 70s and 80s is the new normal. Find out more at danpontefract.com and connect on LinkedIn, YouTube, Instagram, Threads and TikTok.

In this episode of Moolala: Money Made Simple, host Bruce Sellery tackles three money and work topics you can't afford to ignore. Leadership strategist and author Dan Pontefract joins to discuss his new book The Future of Work is Grey, exploring the untapped value of older workers, the looming "age debt crisis," and why organizations that ignore aging demographics risk a $5.4 trillion knowledge loss. Then, Tim Hewson, CEO and co-founder of Legal Wills, breaks down how estate planning has evolved in the digital age from Bitcoin and frequent flyer miles to iPhoto libraries and legacy account holders and why every adult needs an up-to-date will. Finally, Licensed Insolvency Trustee Rob Kilner of Spergel reveals the real risks of Buy Now, Pay Later platforms, including debt stacking, hidden fees, and the psychological trap that keeps consumers spending without realizing it. To find out more about the guests check out: Dan Pontefract: danpontefract.com | LinkedIn | YouTube | Instagram | Threads | TikTok Tim Hewson: legalwills.ca | Facebook | Instagram | LinkedIn Rob Kilner: spergel.ca | Facebook | X | Instagram | TikTok Bruce Sellery is a personal finance expert and best-selling author. As the founder of Moolala and the CEO of Credit Canada, Bruce is on a mission to help you get a better handle on your money so you can live the life you want. High energy & low B.S., this is Moolala: Money Made Simple. Find Bruce Sellery at Moolala.ca | X | Facebook | LinkedIn

Everyone's talking about AI reshaping the future of work, but there's a quieter revolution underway: the workforce is getting older — fast. First, Dan Pontefract makes the case that aging employees aren't a liability but an untapped asset. Then Jeff Schwartz zooms out to explore how resilience, opportunity, and human-centered thinking can help us thrive in a rapidly accelerating world of work. Sponsored by: Homeserve — Go to homeserve.com to find the plan that's right for you Quince — Refresh your everyday with luxury you'll actually use. Head to quince.com/nbid for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns.

What if the real future-of-work crisis isn't about technology replacing humans—but organizations pushing out workers just when their wisdom is needed most? In this episode, Kate O'Neill and Dan Pontefract explore the urgency of rethinking age in the workplace, longevity, and designing meaningful work for six-decade careers. Topics covered: Age and longevity in the workforce Fluid vs. crystallized intelligence The demographic “age debt” challenge AI and human intelligence collaboration Multidirectional, time-flexible careers Rethinking succession planning and wisdom transfer Designing learning ecosystems Evolution of purpose throughout a career Concrete steps leaders can take to turn age debt into dividends Connect with Dan PontefractWebsiteLinkedInYouTubeInstagramTikTokDan’s new book – “The Future is Grey” Episode Chapters:00:05 Welcome and Introduction00:36 The Real Crisis: Age and Work02:01 Dan's Wake-Up Call: Fired at 5003:39 Longevity vs Organizational Blind Spots06:10 Lessons from Japan: The Age Canary07:14 Chief Longevity Officers: Action or Gray Washing?09:42 Fluid & Crystallized Intelligence in the Age of AI14:10 Rivers, Rocks, and Rubies: Beyond Generational Stereotypes18:09 Building Multi-Directional Careers22:00 “Gray” Means Embracing the In-Between22:44 Succession Planning vs Wisdom Transfer26:46 Learning Ecosystems for All Ages30:06 How Purpose Evolves Over Time33:01 3 Steps for Leaders: Actionable Guidance37:11 How to Use Rivers, Rocks, & Rubies in Practice39:11 Dan's Personal “Gray” Future42:01 What's Next for Dan and Final Thoughts43:26 Closing and Where to Connect

If change is constant, why do so many workplaces still treat it like an occasional project—complete with a timeline, a comms plan, and a hope that people “buy in”? Jay Kiew argues that this is exactly why leaders keep running into fatigue, cynicism, and whiplash. In his book "Change Fluency: 9 Principles to Navigate Uncertainty and Drive Innovation," Jay's thesis is straightforward: change can't be managed; it requires fluency—built through mindset, norms, and cultural conditions that help people adapt without detaching from the work. In this episode of Leadership NOW, Jay and Dan explore: the four change mindsets, the “Discover, Design, Differentiate” framework, the five chains that stall transformation, organizational learned helplessness, and why the tyranny of the urgent has become one of the most ruthless blockers of creativity and better leadership decisions. More about Jay Kiew: https://changefluency.com More about Dan Pontefract: https://www.danpontefract.com

Corporate learning used to measure success by the size of its course catalogue and the number of completions. That world is fading. Employees now have access to commercial-grade learning inside tools like ChatGPT and Gemini, and leaders expect proof that learning actually shifts performance, culture and results. Lori Niles-Hofmann thinks this is the reckoning the profession has needed for years. Lori is a long-time learning strategist and co-founder of Eight Levers, with more than twenty years of experience in L&D across international banking, consulting and marketing. She specializes in large-scale digital learning transformation and helps organizations use data, platforms and design to make learning a business driver instead of a content factory. Her book, "The Eight Levers of EdTech Transformation: A Field Guide to the New Future-Focused L&D," lays out a practical model for CLOs who know that the role must evolve. In this episode of Leadership NOW, we talk about: • Why L&D will be under extreme pressure from external learning experiences if it does not change • What it means to stop being a course factory and start running campaigns built around triggers and performance • Her view of the LMS as invisible middleware, living inside tools like Copilot, rather than a portal people “go to” • How to work with HR, IT and finance as part of a skills supply chain instead of a standalone training shop • The learning–work continuum, where every task can become a learning opportunity that feeds directly into output • Learning triage, closed-loop reporting and how data can move L&D from order taker to strategic partner Lori also shares why she believes we are only millimeters away from truly contextualized, personalized learning experiences at scale, and what learning leaders must do now to be ready. Find out more: Lori Niles-Hofmann: https://www.loriniles.com/ Dan Pontefract and the Leadership NOW podcast: https://www.danpontefract.com

Purpose has become the corporate word of the decade, yet in many organizations it behaves more like a slogan than a strategy. In this Leadership NOW conversation, I sit down with Ron Tite, author of "The Purpose of Purpose," to explore what changes when leaders treat purpose as a true engine of growth rather than a glossy story for the website. We dig into the tension between what organizations claim to stand for and what people actually experience, the danger of turning purpose into a marketing side project, and the discipline required to align actions with beliefs over time. Ron and I talk about the link between purpose and performance, why employees and customers both use it as a trust barometer, and how leaders can close the gap between the PowerPoint version of purpose and the lived reality inside the firm. If you are wrestling with culture, growth, and credibility in your own leadership, this episode offers a candid, practical lens on what purpose can be when you take it seriously. More information about Ron Tite: https://rontite.com/books More information about Dan Pontefract: https://www.danpontefract.com/

Dr. Megan Gerhardt joins Leadership NOW to unpack Gentelligence, her research-driven approach to leading an intergenerational workforce. We talk about why the narrative around generations has been so negative and how chronocentrism quietly convinces each age group that its way is the only right way to work. Megan explains how Gentelligence reframes age differences as a form of intelligence rather than a headache and why standards can stay high even as leaders expand the paths people take to meet them. We get into mental health expectations, feedback styles, and the small clashes that can either harden into resentment or become fuel for better practice. We close with practical ideas for building age-inclusive climates on purpose, from mutual mentoring and cross-generational projects to benefits and learning programs that work for early-career talent and older workers alike. More information about Megan Gerhardt: https://www.gentelligence.org/ More information about Dan Pontefract: https://www.danpontefract.com/

Shakeel Bharmal lays out a practical playbook for relevance and performance. Begin with the customer's customer to escape your own lens and create value that sticks. Coach as your default leadership stance—“Leadership is 80% about being a coach.” Make strategy a conversation that welcomes challenge and builds a stronger team, not just a document—“The real opportunity is digging into the genius in the room.” Use AI to deepen thinking—ask it to interview you—while resisting “cut and paste” shortcuts. For more information about Shakeel Bharmal, visit: https://www.shakeelbharmal.com/ For more information about Dan Pontefract, visit www.danpontefract.com

James Root of Bain & Company unpacks "The Archetype Effect"—six distinct motivations that show up across roles, industries, and countries—and why a one-path ladder misses most of the value. We explore how to design work around what people actually care about, not what old systems assume. We get practical: keep the ladder for Strivers while building credible paths for Artisans, Explorers, Givers, and Pioneers. We also push back on generational clichés and discuss how country context and career era shape what matters. Finally, we look at older-worker design, the rise of interesting work and autonomy, and the importance of intentional knowledge capture so wisdom keeps moving. James points to Bain's quick worker-archetype quiz as a low-stakes way for teams to compare notes and improve collaboration. More information about James Root: https://www.bain.com/insights/books/the-archetype-effect/ More information about Dan Pontefract: https://www.danpontefract.com/

Victoria Tomlinson, chief executive of Next-Up, FRSA, BBC Expert Woman, bestselling author, TEDx and international speaker, explains how to value and invest in 50+ talent before and after retirement. We explore the Three R's—recruitment, retention, redundancy by age—succession done properly, tech confidence vs. capability, and intergenerational teams. Victoria's track record spans EY's leadership team, 30 years at Northern Lights, and WILD Digital, plus her Re-think Retirement podcast. At the age of 63, Victoria founded Next-Up, a firm that helps employers to maximize the value of 50+ workers, have difficult conversations, and remotivate employees in their last years at work. More information about Victoria Tomlinson: https://next-up.com/ More information about Dan Pontefract: https://www.danpontefract.com/

David Liddle argues that legacy grievance and disciplinary procedures corrode trust, suppress performance, and institutionalize fear. In this conversation, the TCM Group and People and Culture Association founder outlines a practical reset: retire retributive processes in favour of an integrated resolution framework, build genuinely predictive People and Culture capability, and own the AI agenda with integrity. We cover his Seven Cs of Transformational Culture, why compassion is a management discipline, how Resolution Centers and Culture Hubs operationalize values, and why early-career roles must not be sacrificed to short-term AI gains. Leaders who equate control with accountability will find a different script here—resolution, inquiry, repair, and measurable cultural uplift. For more information about David Liddle, visit: www.thetcmgroup.com For more information about Dan Pontefract, visit: www.danpontefract.com

What does it take to go from “nice-to-have” to non-negotiable? In this episode of Leadership NOW, Dan Pontefract sits down with Christa Haberstock—founder of See Agency and Bookable Speakers, and author of Become a Bookable Speaker. Together, they unpack what it means to lead with an “obvious advantage”—the kind of value that gets you rebooked, respected, and remembered. From her early days selling keynote talent on 100% commission to building a cohort-based model for speaker development, Christa shares what leaders and speakers alike often miss: it's not just about telling a story—it's about solving a problem others can't. Clarity, community, strategic partnerships, and purpose aren't just concepts—they're prerequisites for relevance. For more information about Christa Haberstock, visit: https://bookablespeakers.com/the-book For more information about Dan Pontefract, visit: https://www.danpontefract.com

Maria Franzoni has booked Neil Armstrong and Liza Minnelli—and mentored hundreds of speakers in between. In this episode of Leadership NOW with Dan Pontefract, she explains what separates the truly bookable speaker from the rest, and how those same principles apply to leadership, business, and long-term impact. We explore how speaker bureaus are evolving in an AI-enabled world, what event organizers actually want, and why celebrity status means far less than clarity, value, and being frictionless to work with. Maria also walks through her new model, The Bookability Formula, and why the most successful speakers aren't always the most famous—they're the most useful. This is a masterclass in leadership positioning disguised as a conversation about keynote speaking. If you want to lead with more presence, pitch with more purpose, or build influence that lasts, you'll want to listen through to the end. Learn more: Maria Franzoni: https://www.mariafranzoni.me Dan Pontefract: https://www.danpontefract.com

What do ultra-marathons, workplace distractions, and failed goals have in common? Mandy Gill. In this candid episode of Leadership NOW with Dan Pontefract, Mandy shares her journey—from overcoming anorexia to guiding leaders through resilience and workplace wellness. Her book "Reset with Resilience" is a blueprint for bouncing forward through setbacks. We explore her signature “catch it, check it, change it” method, the psychology of negative thinking, and how reverse-engineering your goals can shift your trajectory. Mandy doesn't sugarcoat it—she teaches resilience with precision, story, and lived truth. This episode is equal parts blueprint and mirror. For more information about Mandy Gill visit: https://www.mandygill.com/book For more information about Dan Pontefract visit: https://www.danpontefract.com

When companies go through a merger or acquisition, most leaders obsess over financials and spreadsheets. But according to Jennifer Fondrevay—founder of Day1 Ready and author of Now What?—the real failure happens when leadership ignores people. In this episode of Leadership NOW, we explore what really drives post-acquisition chaos, the arrogance of deal-making, and why culture buddies and pre-mortems are essential to getting it right. If your company is planning a deal, this conversation is your human integration blueprint. More information about Jennifer Fondrevay at https://jenniferjfondrevay.com/ More information about Dan Pontefract at https://www.danpontefract.com/

Maureen Wiley Clough, seasoned technology leader and host of the podcast It Gets Late Early, joins Dan Pontefract on Leadership NOW to discuss the overlooked yet costly issue of ageism in today's workplaces. Clough highlights why age diversity isn't simply an ethical responsibility but a strategic advantage. She dismantles harmful myths about older employees' technological capability, cost, and adaptability, and provides actionable insights for leaders on cultivating meaningful intergenerational mentorship and organizational resilience. If your organization values inclusion, it's time to start genuinely including older employees. More about Maureen Wiley Clough: https://www.itgetslateearly.com/ More about Dan Pontefract: https://www.danpontefract.com

Gary Officer, President and CEO of the Center for Workforce Inclusion (CWI Labs), joins Dan Pontefract on Leadership NOW to discuss why organizations repeatedly overlook older workers—and why it's strategically and socially damaging. Officer explains how ageism impacts organizational productivity, innovation, and culture. He debunks common myths around older employees' technological skills, health care costs, and salary expectations, offering compelling insights and examples of successful intergenerational teams. This episode highlights why age inclusiveness isn't simply about fairness; it's a crucial competitive advantage. For more information about Gary A. Officer visit: https://www.cwilabs.org/ For more information about Dan Pontefract visit: https://www.danpontefract.com/

In this insightful episode of Leadership NOW, Dan sits down with entrepreneur and acclaimed author Faisal Hoque to discuss the transformative power—and hidden perils—of artificial intelligence. Drawing from his latest book, "TRANSCEND: Unlocking Humanity in the Age of AI," Faisal explores why the greatest leadership challenge today is balancing AI's vast potential with human judgment, ethics, and dignity. Faisal and Dan dive deep into practical frameworks leaders can immediately use to guide AI ethically and strategically. From addressing algorithmic bias to maintaining authentic human connections in increasingly automated workplaces, they unpack why leadership in the AI age demands clarity, compassion, and purpose. Join this critical conversation to learn how to ensure your organization's smartest technologies amplify human strengths rather than undermine them. For more about Faisal Hoque visit: https://faisalhoque.com/ For more about Dan Pontefract visit: https://www.danpontefract.com/

Rose Fass, founder of Fass Forward Consulting Group and former CTO at Xerox, joins Dan Pontefract on Leadership NOW to discuss why organizations repeatedly overlook the crucial layer of middle management. Rose reveals the critical role of the "messy middle" in translating strategy into execution and why senior leaders must meaningfully engage rather than ignore these vital managers. She explains how genuine, unscripted conversations—not PowerPoint decks—lead to successful transformation, and underscores why wisdom and innovation have no age limit. It's a powerful conversation that challenges the status quo about middle managers and the real nature of leadership. More about Rose Fass at: https://www.fassforward.com/ More about Dan Pontefract at: https://www.danpontefract.com/

Rigid leadership is failing us—especially now. On this episode of Leadership NOW, Dan Pontefract speaks with bestselling author and leadership expert Kevin Eikenberry about his latest book, "Flexible Leadership: Navigate Uncertainty and Lead with Confidence." Eikenberry argues persuasively that leaders trapped in habitual thinking or overly reliant on personality labels miss opportunities to adapt effectively in today's complex world. He introduces the concept of “flexors”—leadership decisions that require intentional flexibility rather than automatic, comfort-driven reactions. In this lively conversation, Eikenberry outlines why flexibility is no longer optional, explains the practical skills and habits leaders must adopt, and offers clear advice to move beyond rigidity into intentional, adaptive leadership. For more about Kevin and his book, including a gift, visit: • https://www.kevineikenberry.com/flexible • https://www.kevineikenberry.com/gift More about Dan Pontefract at https://www.danpontefract.com/

In this episode of Leadership NOW, we delve into the critical issue of knowledge loss within organizations. When seasoned employees retire or depart, they often take invaluable tacit knowledge with them—expertise that isn't documented in manuals or training materials.​ Join us as we explore the insights of Dr. Richard Clark, Professor Emeritus at the University of Southern California, who has dedicated his career to addressing this challenge through Cognitive Task Analysis (CTA). Dr. Clark discusses how CTA can uncover and preserve the hidden insights of workplace experts, ensuring that organizations retain and effectively transfer critical knowledge.​ Discover how integrating CTA with artificial intelligence, such as ChatGPT, can accelerate and enhance the process of capturing and disseminating expert knowledge. Learn practical steps to prioritize expertise mapping, leverage AI-driven CTA, and foster a culture of lifelong learning within your organization.​ Don't let essential knowledge slip away. Watch now to understand how to safeguard your organization's intellectual assets and maintain a competitive edge.​ More about Dr. Clark at https://rossier.usc.edu/faculty-research/directory/richard-clark More about Dan Pontefract at https://www.danpontefract.com/

Learning and Development (L&D) teams are at a crossroads. Too many still operate as order takers, delivering training on request without questioning whether it's the right solution. Dr. Keith Keating, Chief Learning and Development Officer at BDO Canada and author of "The Trusted Learning Advisor," believes this outdated mindset limits impact and credibility. In this episode of Leadership NOW with Dan Pontefract, Keating explains how L&D must evolve from transactional function to strategic business partner. He shares: 1) Why L&D professionals must stop taking orders and start diagnosing real business challenges 2) How the IDAD Model—Intake, Discovery, Analysis, and Decision—helps reframe training requests 3) Why empathy, active listening, and design thinking are the missing pieces in L&D's strategy Keating outlines practical steps to move beyond outdated approaches and drive real business value. Watch now to learn how L&D professionals can build credibility, drive impact, and become true trusted learning advisors. More about Keith Keating: https://www.thetrustedlearningadvisor.com/ More about Dan Pontefract: https://www.danpontefract.com/

The workforce is aging, but many leaders are still acting as if nothing has changed. On this episode of Leadership NOW with Dan Pontefract, CEO and author Avivah Wittenberg-Cox, a global expert on gender, generational shifts, and longevity, unpacks what organizations must do to stay ahead. She explains why age diversity is a leadership blind spot, how demographic shifts are reshaping talent strategies, and what wise leaders are doing to future-proof their organizations. Avivah challenges outdated assumptions about work, career longevity, and leadership. She explores the opportunities that come with longer, multi-stage careers—and why companies that fail to adapt will struggle to compete. More about Avivah Wittenberg-Cox: https://www.avivahwittenbergcox.com/ More about Dan Pontefract: https://www.danpontefract.com/

In this blunt, zero-guests, and entertaining episode of Leadership NOW, Dan Pontefract unleashes his frustrations on the outdated practice of the annual performance review. He traces its historical roots, explains why it hurt engagement and innovation, and offers a better path forward. If you are tired of cramming twelve months of work into a single, awkward meeting, tune in for Dan's pointed critique and practical alternatives that will save time, boost morale, and modernize how we measure performance.

Storytelling shapes leadership, builds trust, and creates lasting change. On this episode of Leadership NOW with Dan Pontefract, Fatu Kaba, a Liberian peace activist, entrepreneur, and author, shares how storytelling became her most powerful tool. From surviving civil war to advocating for marginalized voices, she discusses how truth-telling challenges systems, fosters inclusion, and strengthens leadership. Fatu explains why leaders who embrace storytelling create deeper connections, inspire action, and build organizations that stand for something greater. She also reflects on the impact of performative inclusion, the importance of listening, and the courage it takes to create real change. More about Fatu Kaba: https://www.heartsglobal.ca More about Dan Pontefract: https://www.danpontefract.com

The workforce is changing faster than most leaders realize. By 2030, there will be more people over 65 than under 18 in the U.S.—a demographic shift that is already reshaping economies, labor markets, and business strategy. Bradley Schurman, author of "The Super Age: Decoding Our Demographic Destiny," joins Dan Pontefract on Leadership NOW to break down what this means for organizations. In this conversation, Schurman unpacks why birth rates have collapsed, why ageism is holding companies back, and how leaders must rethink workforce planning to stay ahead. He explores the flaws in traditional retirement models, the impact of longer life expectancies on labor markets, and why businesses that fail to adapt will struggle to find both talent and customers in the coming decades. If you're a leader navigating workforce challenges—or just trying to understand the seismic demographic shifts happening today—this is an episode you can't afford to miss. More about Bradley Schurman at https://behumanchange.com More about Dan Pontefract at https://www.danpontefract.com

As we step into an era where living to 100 is no longer an anomaly, how should leaders rethink work, talent, and organizational design? On this episode of Leadership NOW, Simon Chan, CEO and Founder of Adapt With Intent, joins the conversation to challenge outdated workplace models and explore how organizations can better harness the power of an age-diverse workforce. “We're not just an aging population; we're an age-diverse one,” he says. With careers stretching beyond the traditional 40-year arc, companies must embrace flexible work arrangements, leverage experienced talent, and reimagine leadership structures. Simon shares how organizations can approach longevity as a design challenge—one that meets the needs of both younger and older talent while unlocking innovation and institutional knowledge. From flexible work setups to intergenerational collaboration, the future of work demands a shift in mindset. If leaders fail to adapt, they risk missing out on a massive economic and strategic opportunity. More about Simon Chan at https://www.adaptwithintent.com/ More about Dan Pontefract at https://www.danpontefract.com/

In this episode of Leadership NOW, Dan Pontefract sits down with Jon Husband, the pioneer behind Wirearchy, to reflect on 25 years of this transformative concept. Together, they delve into the evolution of leadership, exploring how trust, credibility, and collaboration are reshaping the modern workplace. Jon shares his perspective on the shift from rigid hierarchies to dynamic flows of power, the challenges and opportunities of hybrid work, and the profound impact of generative AI on human creativity and connection. With real-world examples and deep insights, this episode offers leaders a roadmap for navigating complexity, fostering meaningful relationships, and embracing change in today's interconnected world. Don't miss this engaging discussion on the principles that define the future of leadership. More about Jon Husband and Wirearchy at www.wirearchy.com More about Dan Pontefract at www.danpontefract.com

Aging isn't a new problem to solve; it's a chance to reimagine. In this episode of Leadership NOW, Jeanette Leardi, a social gerontologist and author of "Aging Sideways," challenges outdated views on aging and offers a fresh perspective on how we can embrace life's later stages with purpose and possibility. We explore the surprising ways our brains adapt as we age, the importance of intergenerational connections, and why older adults are an untapped reservoir of wisdom, creativity, and experience. Jeanette shares her concept of “aging sideways,” calling on leaders to rethink how they approach aging in the workplace and in society. More about Jeanette Leardi at www.jeanetteleardi.com More about Dan Pontefract at www.danpontefract.com

Dan Pontefract, author of Work-Life Bloom, joins Sales Talk for CEOs to share a groundbreaking approach to leadership. Key takeaways include redefining CEO responsibilities to include care, balancing humanity with execution, and fostering engagement through positive reinforcement. Dan also introduces a unique framework for navigating work-life cycles, offering practical advice for CEOs to inspire their teams and drive sustainable success. About GuestMy new book, WORK-LIFE BLOOM is a Thinkers50 Top New Management Book for 2024 and won the Gold Medal - Axiom Business Book Awards. Otherwise, I'm a leadership strategist, author, consultant, and keynote speaker. Other award-winning books include LEAD. CARE. WIN., OPEN TO THINK, THE PURPOSE EFFECT & FLAT ARMY. I help leaders realize that the future of work is now. Dan Pontefract is a renowned leadership strategist, author, and keynote speaker with over two decades of experience in senior executive roles at companies such as SAP, TELUS, and Business Objects. Since then, he has worked with organizations worldwide, including Salesforce, Amgen, the State of Tennessee, Nestlé, Canada Post, Autodesk, BMO, the Government of Canada, Manulife, Nutrien, and the City of Toronto, among others.As an award-winning and best-selling author, Dan has written five books: WORK-LIFE BLOOM, LEAD. CARE. WIN., OPEN TO THINK, THE PURPOSE EFFECT, and FLAT ARMY. Dan also writes for Forbes, Harvard Business Review, and other outlets.Dan is a renowned keynote speaker who has presented at four TED events and has delivered over 600 keynotes . He is an adjunct professor at the University of Victoria's Gustavson School of Business and has received over 25 industry, individual, and book awards.Dan's career is interwoven with corporate and academic experience, coupled with an MBA, B.Ed, and multiple industry certifications and awards. Notably, Dan is listed on the Thinkers50 Radar, HR Weekly's 100 Most Influential People in HR, PeopleHum's Top 200 Thought Leaders to Follow, and Inc. Magazine's Top 100 Leadership Speakers.About Guest CompanyDan offers a range of options to help you, your team, your entire organization, or your event with various leadership and corporate culture insights. Options include keynotes, workshops, strategic planning sessions, assessments, master classes, and various learning modules. Tailored or off-the-shelf, Dan's repertoire of knowledge and solutions is as wide as his musical tastes. (hint: very wide) Inquire: speak@danpontefract.comSocial Links https://www.danpontefract.com/content/https://www.linkedin.com/in/danpontefract/https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-pontefract-group/Books: https://www.danpontefract.com/content/booksbydan/Podcast: https://www.danpontefract.com/content/podcast/Blog: https://www.danpontefract.com/content/blog/Book recommended by Dan: https://www.danpink.com/books/drive/Podcast recommended by Dan: https://munkdebates.com/listen/Connect with Alice HeimanLinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aliceheiman/Alice's Website: https://aliceheiman.com/

How do you embrace the second half of life with purpose, energy, and vision? In this episode of Leadership NOW with Dan Pontefract, author Michael Clinton ("Roar into the Second Half of Your Life) shares how to reimagine the next chapter through reinvention, lifelong learning, and leadership. Clinton dives into his concept of “rewiring instead of retiring,” offering actionable insights for thriving in the 100-year life. From confronting ageism to fostering multigenerational workplaces, Clinton explores the power of living intentionally and inspiring others. Whether you're leading teams, starting a new venture, or navigating your personal journey, this conversation is packed with wisdom, strategies, and real-world examples to help you roar forward. More about Michael Clinton at www.roarforward.com More about Dan Pontefract at www.danpontefract.com

Are you striving for the elusive “work-life balance” and finding it's not quite working?In this episode of Leadership Biz Cafe, I welcome back my friend, and fellow leadership expert (and Canadian) Dan Pontefract to discuss his book, “Work-Life Bloom: How to Nurture a Team That Flourishes“, where he argues work-life balance is a misleading and at times harmful concept.As Dan puts it, work and life aren't opposing forces, but distinct entities that interact and influence one another.Over the course of our conversation, Dan and I discuss:Why the concept of work-life balance is flawed.The four work-life personas of his “Work-Life Bloom” model.The importance of trust, belonging, and feeling valued at work to employees thriving at work.Why agency is crucial to empowering employees.Tune in to learn more about Dan's Work-Life Bloom model with its four different personas that shape our work and life selves, and why we need to let go of trying to find that work-life balance. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

On this episode of Leadership NOW, host Dan Pontefract sits down with Dr. Neri Karra Sillaman, the founder of B Corp-certified Moda Métiers, to explore her transformative journey from refugee to leader in luxury fashion. Dr. Sillaman shares her vision for redefining success through purpose-driven leadership, where resilience, sustainability, and integrity are woven into every decision. Together, they discuss how Dr. Sillaman's commitment to social impact, innovation, and ethical practices is setting a new standard in the industry—one that challenges leaders to build brands focused on lasting legacy over fleeting profit. Dr. Neri Karra Sillaman is a distinguished academic, entrepreneur, and author known for her expertise in business sustainability and leadership. With over 20 years of experience in the fashion and luxury sector, Dr. Sillaman has established herself as a strategy consultant, public speaker, and author specializing in business longevity, resilience, and sustainability. She is the founder of a global multi-million-dollar sustainable luxury leather goods brand, which manufactures her eponymous label as well as leading Italian luxury brands. She is the author of the award-winning book Fashion Entrepreneurship: The Creation of the Global Fashion Business. In addition to being a fashion entrepreneur, she is also an academic, currently appointed as an Entrepreneurship Expert at the University of Oxford. She also consults for both emerging and established fashion brands through her consultancy firm, Moda Métiers. Neri's passion lies in understanding the pillars of business longevity and how resilience underpins thriving enterprises and lives. Neri has guest lectured for companies including Apple and Credit Suisse, as well as for institutions such as the London School of Economics, the Royal College of Art, and Imperial College London. Neri received her Ph.D. from the University of Cambridge, her master's from Sabanci University in Istanbul. More about Dr. Sillaman and her consultancy at: https://modametiers.com/ More about Dan Pontefract at: https://www.danpontefract.com/

In this insightful episode of Leadership NOW, Dan Pontefract engages in a dynamic discussion with Vince Molinaro, a renowned leadership expert and New York Times best-selling author of "Community of Leaders." Together, they explore the critical role of leadership accountability in today's fast-paced and complex business landscape. Molinaro shares his thoughts on the importance of developing leaders at all levels, breaking down organizational silos, and fostering a culture of shared accountability. Through engaging stories and actionable advice, Vince reveals how leaders can "raise barns together," creating an environment where collaboration, resilience, and accountability drive long-term success. This episode is packed with practical insights for leaders looking to build stronger, more cohesive teams in an ever-evolving world. As founder and CEO of Leadership Contract Inc (LCI), Vince has worked with organizations from start-ups to Fortune 500, in 25 countries and over 80 cities. He and his team equip leaders to navigate critical strategic shifts in their companies by scaling accountability and community. He is the author of five books, including Accountable Leaders and The Leadership Contract. His books and various programs are the foundation of many leadership programs in companies around the world. As a leader, Vince strives to practice what he preaches by setting the tone of accountability every day. More about Vince and his book at: https://www.leadwithlci.com/ More about Dan Pontefract at: https://www.danpontefract.com/

SummaryIn this conversation, Dan Pontefract discusses his journey as a leadership strategist, focusing on the importance of emotional intelligence, culture change, and the impact of nurturing curiosity within organisations. He shares insights from his experience at TELUS, where he helped transform the corporate culture and introduced innovative programs like the TELUS MBA. The discussion emphasises the need for a unified leadership philosophy and the significance of treating employees with kindness and respect to foster a thriving workplace. In this conversation, Dominic Monkhouse reflects on the evolution of corporate culture and leadership, emphasising the importance of emotional intelligence, collaboration, and a unified purpose within organisations. He discusses the identity crises faced by companies like Starbucks and Wells Fargo, highlighting the need for leaders to foster a culture of learning and development. Dominic also shares insights from his books and recent readings, advocating for a more human-centric approach to leadership and work-life dynamics.TakeawaysEmotional intelligence is crucial for effective leadership.Organisations often promote individuals without considering their EQ.Culture change requires a unified leadership philosophy.Learned helplessness can hinder organisational growth.Leaders should focus on developing their teams.A supportive work environment fosters collaboration and innovation.Work-life balance is not always achievable; it's about blooming.The canoe metaphor illustrates the need for aligned leadership.CEOs play a significant role in shaping organisational culture.Continuous learning is essential for personal and professional growth.Chapters(00:00) Building Bridges: The Journey Begins(03:14) Leadership Strategies: Transforming Organizations(05:54) Culture Change: Lessons from TELUS(09:11) The Importance of Emotional Intelligence in Leadership(11:52) Learned Helplessness: A Barrier to Growth(14:47) Nurturing Curiosity: The Key to Engagement(18:07) Creating a Unified Culture: The TELUS Leadership Philosophy(20:53) Measuring Success: Engagement and Performance Metrics(27:04) Reflecting on Leadership and Culture(29:00) The Identity Crisis of Corporations(31:22) The Importance of Emotional Intelligence in Leadership(33:42) Collaboration and Constructive Conflict(35:59) The Shift from Know-it-alls to Learn-it-alls(39:54) The Role of Leaders in Team Development(40:50) Exploring the Books of Dominic Monkhouse(44:30) Navigating Work-Life Dynamics(46:51) Recent Reads and Inspirations(49:39) Quickfire Questions and Insights

Join leadership strategist Dan Pontefract as he sits down with best-selling author Seth Godin in this special episode of Leadership NOW to explore the philosophy behind effective strategy. In this engaging conversation, Godin shares key insights from his latest book, "This is Strategy," and explains why strategy is not a rigid map but a flexible compass. From focusing on your "smallest viable market" to the power of saying “no,” this episode is packed with actionable advice for leaders looking to drive meaningful, long-term change. Don't miss out on this thought-provoking discussion that challenges the conventional approach to strategy. Seth Godin has been trying to turn on lights, inspire people, and teach them how to level up for more than thirty years. He has spent most of his professional life as a writer, publishing 20 bestselling books, including his latest, “This Is Strategy: Make Better Plans.” Unless you have been living under a rock, you know that his daily blog called “Seth's Blog” is one of the world's greatest treasures. Over 3 million words and counting. Seth is in the Guerrilla Marketing Hall of Fame, the Direct Marketing Hall of Fame and the Marketing Hall of Fame. He's delivered five TED talks and pioneered ethical online direct marketing, now a $30bn a year industry. More about Seth Godin at his site: https://seths.blog/more/ More about Dan Pontefract at https://www.danpontefract.com/

David Lancefield is the founder of Strategy Shift and a trusted advisor to over 50 CEOs. In this episode of Leadership NOW, David and Dan dive deep into what it truly means to lead with trust. They discuss how empowering teams, fostering involvement, and creating a culture of accountability can drive meaningful transformation. David shares practical insights from his extensive experience working with leaders to unlock potential and navigate change in today's fast-paced environment. David has worked with C-Suite executives to design bold strategies, supercharge their leadership, and transform their culture in 20 countries. He's a contributor to Harvard Business Review, MIT Sloan Review, and Strategy+Business, and a guest lecturer at the London Business School. He is a former senior partner in Strategy&, PwC. You can find out more about David, his work and his writing at: https://davidlancefield.com/writing/ More about Dan Pontefract at: https://www.danpontefract.com/content/

In this episode, we sit down with Mary Olson-Menzel, leadership coach and author of "What Lights You Up?," to explore how leaders can reignite their purpose and help others do the same. We dive into the challenges of staying connected to personal values in a world of constant change, the importance of leading gracefully, and how empathy can drive individual and team success. Join us as we uncover the power of lighting the path for others and finding what truly fuels you as a leader. More about Mary at https://mvpexec.com/about/mary-olson-menzel/ More about Dan Pontefract at https://www.danpontefract.com

In this episode of Leadership NOW, host Dan Pontefract chats with acclaimed filmmaker Mike Downie about his documentary "The Tragically Hip: No Dress Rehearsal," which tells the incredible story of The Tragically Hip. Mike shares the more profound insights behind the film, exploring the themes of resilience, love, and collaboration that defined the band's remarkable journey. Listeners will hear Mike's reflections on working with archival footage and intimate interviews to bring this four-part documentary to life. He provides a behind-the-scenes look at how The Tragically Hip stayed true to their values, both as musicians and as leaders who prioritized integrity and trust above all else. If you're interested in leadership, authenticity, or simply a fan of The Hip, this episode offers valuable lessons on the power of unity and perseverance in the face of challenges. Discover how the band's collaborative spirit shaped their legacy and what leaders today can learn from their example. More about Mike Downie at https://couragefilms.ca/ More about Dan Pontefract at https://www.danpontefract.com/

In this episode, Dan Pontefract sits down with Andrew Barnes, the visionary behind the global four-day workweek movement. Andrew shares how his bold experiment at Perpetual Guardian in New Zealand redefined productivity and work-life balance, sparking a worldwide conversation. From boosting employee engagement and well-being to challenging traditional leadership thinking, Barnes reveals the secrets behind the 180-100 model that's changing the future of work. Tune in to discover how fewer hours can deliver more—and why the movement is gaining traction globally. Andrew Barnes has made a career of market-changing innovation and industry digitization. He owns and is a director of Coulthard Barnes, Perpetual Guardian, and New Zealand's largest crowdfunding website, Givealittle. Best known as co-founder of 4 Day Week Global, the international not-for-profit advocates for and supports organizations with their journey to a shorter, productivity-focused workweek. Their 100-80-100™ model has earned worldwide acclaim, with the organization being named a TIME 100 Most Influential Company for 2023. In the last five years, Andrew has worked with countless companies and advised over a dozen national and regional governments on how their populations will work in the future. He was also recently recognized on the Forbes Future Of Work 50 list as a leader in workplace innovation. His most recent achievement in June 2024 has been the recognition and award of an Officer of the New Zealand Order of Merit for outstanding achievement and support in the community. Find out more about Andrew's work at https://www.4dayweek.com/book More about Dan Pontefract at https://www.danpontefract.com/

We're on Patreon now! Find us at https://www.patreon.com/AudioUnleashed This week, Brent and Dennis kick things off with everyone's favorite: a vocabulary lesson! What's the difference between decibels and SPLs, and how are those distinct from loudness? Also, what the heck are LUFS? Next: If EarFun's new earphones are all that, why pay more? And can Sonos un-punch its own face? Buy-now links for products mentioned herein (As Amazon Associates, we may earn a small cut from qualifying purchases):

Dr. Deborah Heiser, the founder and CEO of The Mentor Project™, is a leading figure in the field of aging. Her work, which brings experts to mentor students worldwide for free, has had a significant impact. As an applied developmental psychologist, a TEDx speaker, and a Psychology Today contributor, she specializes in midlife and beyond. Her research, which covers a wide range of topics related to aging, has been recognized with grants awarded from NIA/NIH and Pfizer. A frequent expert guest on syndicated and local talk radio shows, Deborah contends that our most precious natural resources are not coal, oil and gas but intellect, expertise, and skills. She is a proponent of utilizing our world experts through mentorship and firmly believes that we are all built to give back. Coming out in 2024 is a new book titled “The Mentorship Edge.” More details about Deborah at https://mentorproject.org/mentor/deborah-heiser/ More information about Dan Pontefract at https://www.danpontefract.com/

Welcome to episode #936 of Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast. Here it is: Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast - Episode #936. My friend, Dan Pontefract, is a renowned leadership strategist, author, and keynote speaker with over two decades of experience in senior executive roles at companies like SAP, TELUS, and Business Objects. His focus has always been on corporate culture change, leadership development, employee experience, and overall performance improvement. Since leaving the world of full-time gigs in 2018, Dan has worked with organizations worldwide, including Salesforce, Amgen, Nestlé, and the City of Toronto, and countless others. He has a knack for turning leaders and corporate cultures into a competitive advantage, believing firmly that the future of work is now. In this conversation, Dan shares his insights on the evolution from work-life balance to work-life flow, emphasizing the need for a more fluid integration of work and personal life. We discuss how economic factors like the death of the middle class and shareholder primacy has reshaped work-life balance. Dan highlights the generational shifts in perspectives, with younger generations craving greater personalization and flexibility in their work lives. He stresses the importance of setting and respecting boundaries to maintain a healthy work-life balance, the role of culture in shaping this balance, and the potential impacts of gamifying work. Dan's latest book, Work-Life Bloom - How to Nurture A Team That Flourishes, delves into the intricate dance between our professional and personal lives. Drawing parallels to how a flower needs the right mix of sunlight, water, and nutrients to thrive, Dan argues that team members need the right mix of work-life factors to create a fulfilling existence. Through global research, interviews, and personal anecdotes, he offers practical solutions for leaders and organizations to foster environments where teams can truly bloom. Dan is also the author of Lead Care Win, Open To Think, The Purpose Effect and Flat Army. Enjoy the conversation... Running time: 59:06. Hello from beautiful Montreal. Subscribe over at Apple Podcasts. Please visit and leave comments on the blog - Six Pixels of Separation. Feel free to connect to me directly on Facebook here: Mitch Joel on Facebook. Check out ThinkersOne. or you can connect on LinkedIn. ...or on Twitter. Here is my conversation with Dan Pontefract. Work-Life Bloom - How to Nurture A Team That Flourishes. Lead Care Win. Open To Think. The Purpose Effect. Flat Army. You can also have Dan pop in to your meeting and more at ThinkersOne. Follow Dan on LinkedIn. Follow Dan on X. This week's music: David Usher 'St. Lawrence River'. Takeaways Work-life balance has evolved into work-life flow, emphasizing the need for a more fluid integration of work and personal life. Economic factors, such as the death of the middle class and shareholder primacy, have had a significant impact on work-life balance. Generational differences exist in work-life balance perspectives, with younger generations seeking greater personalization and flexibility in their work. Setting and respecting boundaries is crucial for maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Culture plays a vital role in shaping work-life balance, and organizations need to consider individual needs and values. The gamification of work can have both positive and negative effects on work-life balance. In-person interactions and connections are valuable for fostering work-life balance. Integrating productivity into work-life balance is a complex challenge that requires finding ways to be productive without sacrificing personal time. Leaders should strive to be coaches, providing support, empathy, and constructive feedback to their team members. The integration of artificial intelligence in the workplace raises concerns about job security and the need for human skills that cannot be automated. Societal considerations should include addressing the struggles faced by men in the workplace and ensuring equal support and opportunities for all genders. Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction and Background 03:02 - The Shift from Work-Life Balance to Work-Life Flow 06:31 - The Impact of Economic Factors on Work-Life Balance 10:23 - The Death of the Middle Class and Its Effect on Work-Life Balance 13:08 - The Influence of Shareholder Primacy on Work-Life Balance 16:47 - Generational Differences in Work-Life Balance Perspectives 19:19 - The Personalization of Work and Its Impact on Work-Life Balance 23:57 - The Importance of Boundaries in Work-Life Balance 28:03 - The Role of Culture in Work-Life Balance 32:30 - The Gamification of Work and Its Effect on Work-Life Balance 36:25 - The Current State of Work-Life Balance 39:40 - The Importance of Respect in Work-Life Balance 43:48 - The Role of Boundaries in Work-Life Balance 46:33 - The Value of In-Person Interactions in Work-Life Balance 47:52 - Integrating Productivity into Work-Life Balance 48:21 - Leaders as Coaches 51:26 - The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Work 55:15 - Societal Considerations for Men in the Workplace

Want to become more heart-centered? There's a new playbook in town! Deb has released her first book The Heart-Centered Leadership Playbook: How to Master the Art of Heart in Life & Leadership. Get your copy now here on our official Amazon link!Dan Pontefract is a renowned leadership strategist, author, and keynote speaker with over two decades of experience in senior executive roles at companies such as SAP, TELUS, and Business Objects. Since then, he has worked with organizations worldwide, including Salesforce, Amgen, the State of Tennessee, Nestlé, Canada Post, Autodesk, BMO, the Government of Canada, Manulife, Nutrien, and the City of Toronto, among others.As an award-winning and best-selling author, Dan has written five books: WORK-LIFE BLOOM, LEAD. CARE. WIN., OPEN TO THINK, THE PURPOSE EFFECT, and FLAT ARMY. Dan also writes for Forbes, Harvard Business Review, and other outlets.Dan is a renowned keynote speaker who has presented at four TED events and has delivered over 600 keynotes. He is an adjunct professor at the University of Victoria's Gustavson School of Business and has received over 25 industry, individual, and book awards.Dan's career is interwoven with corporate and academic experience, an MBA, B.Ed, and multiple industry certifications and awards. Dan is listed on the Thinkers50 Radar, HR Weekly's 100 Most Influential People in HR, PeopleHum's Top 200 Thought Leaders to Follow, and Inc. Magazine's Top 100 Leadership Speakers.Connect with Dan at:* https://www.linkedin.com/in/danpontefract/* https://www.instagram.com/dan.pontefract/* https://twitter.com/dpontefract* https://www.danpontefract.com/* https://www.youtube.com/@dan.pontefract/videos* Dan's Book: https://www.danpontefract.com/work-life-bloom-preorder/ This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit debcrowe.substack.com

Dan Pontefract is a renowned leadership strategist, award-winning author, and keynote speaker with over two decades of experience helping organizations and leaders improve performance, productivity, and overall engagement. Dan talks about the factors in work and life that affect the balance of each, his transition into speaking and authoring, generating leads, and much more!