Uncommon Leadership
Ever feel like you are just one more cog in a machine? Ever had a manager treat you as though you were completely interchangeable with someone else on your team? Ever been stuck doing something you absolutely hated while others complained about doing something you would have loved to do? We’re not just cogs, nor are we plug-and-play replacements for anyone else. We each have unique talents. The teams I’ve most enjoyed working with, and the teams who best accomplished their goals, have always been teams who customized their approach to take full advantage of those unique gifts. The Uncommon Leadership interview series will inspire you through the stories of those who have made the shift from struggling to thriving as leaders, individually and in a team environment. Join us as we explore aligning personal fulfillment with business success, creating authentic teams, and cultivating the resilience necessary to move beyond simply surviving today’s challenges into thriving.
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Stop Hiding: Your Company Can't Afford It! ft. David Mantica
07/23/2025
Stop Hiding: Your Company Can't Afford It! ft. David Mantica
Is your leadership style secretly costing your company millions? Many leaders today fall prey to the dangerous pressure of hiding their true selves. And this is draining more than just energy. It's slowly piling up invisible walls within your team—stifling innovation, and quietly sabotaging your bottom line. The old playbook for leaders is failing in today's unpredictable world. It's creating environments of fear, distrust, and burnout, leaving organizations vulnerable to the chaos of rapid change. So today, on the newest episode of the Uncommon Leadership podcast, I sit down with the Managing Director at SoftEd, David Mantica, to pull back the curtain. David has seen how businesses operate from every angle, and with that insight, we explore how true leadership isn't about control, but about authentic connection. It's about bringing your whole self to work, understanding your brain's biases, and cultivating curiosity to truly empower your people. If you want to create a workplace where people are truly engaged and excited about "why" they do what they do, then grab a seat and join in the conversation. -- Is this podcast right for you?: Yes, if you want to build trust and create a long-lasting impact at your organization by showing up as your whole self. Yes, if you are ready to let go of micromanaging or controlling behaviors and lead your team by empowering them. Yes, if you're open to understanding your own biases, recognize when you're not at your best, & actively seek feedback from your team members or colleagues. Yes, if you're determined to create a culture where people feel safe to be themselves, express ideas, and even make mistakes. Yes, if you're just a leader, CEO, or CXO—trying to lead your organization through burnout or stifled growth. -- About the Speakers David Mantica As Managing Director at SoftEd, David Mantica is dedicated to empowering knowledge workers by providing comprehensive training, coaching, and advisory services. Leveraging his deep expertise, he equips professionals with critical skills in areas like AI, Agile, and leadership, enabling them to thrive and innovate effectively in today's complex, VUCA (Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, Ambiguity) business world, all while advocating for sustainable, trust-driven profitability. With over 30 years of experience and more than 700 speaking engagements, David actively equips professionals with the knowledge, credentials, and confidence needed to lead, deliver, and innovate effectively. Get in touch with David Mantica↓ Connect on LinkedIn: Or Email: Michael Hunter↓ Michael Hunter is the founder of Uncommon Teams and the compelling voice behind the Uncommon Leadership podcast. For over 35 years, he's guided leaders across six continents, helping them navigate the demanding realities of burnout, overwhelm, and the multifaceted challenges of today's global business landscape. He champions the creation of truly authentic and resilient teams, guiding leaders to align their personal fulfillment with profound business success. His unique approach enables individuals and teams to move beyond merely surviving daily pressures, into a state where they can truly thrive and innovate with ease. Michael's mission is to help leaders, CEOs, and founding teams create and inhabit their legacy, elevating themselves in a way that is safe and sustainable. Want to build an uncommon, unstoppable team? Get in touch with Michael Hunter: LinkedIn Website: Newsletter: Podcast: Presented By: Uncommon Change
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What You're Afraid to Face Will Cost You Everything ft. Dan Tocchini
07/16/2025
What You're Afraid to Face Will Cost You Everything ft. Dan Tocchini
Imagine being constantly caught off guard by problems you never saw coming, while carrying the weight of leadership decisions that could make or break your organization. It's a tough spot, and frankly, a sad reality for many leaders who've unintentionally built walls, missing crucial insights that could save them millions. Welcome to another powerful episode of the Uncommon Leadership Podcast! I'm Michael Hunter, and today, I'm honored to speak with someone who's witnessed this costly pattern firsthand: Dan Tocchini. Tocchini is a true leadership transformation expert, with over 35 years of experience helping executive teams break through seemingly impossible barriers. In this conversation, he reveals exactly how siloed processes create dangerous blind spots—blind spots that can cost millions or, even worse, derail your entire venture. He also tackles the hard questions head-on: How do you balance openness with authority? How do you create cultures where people feel genuinely confident to take risks? And most importantly, how do you turn obstacles into opportunities through what he calls "fascination"—a deeper level of curiosity that transforms breakdowns into breakthroughs. You'll also get a sneak peek into his three pillars of effective leadership and his proven change management framework that explains why a surprising 40% of your team sits on the fence during transitions—and, crucially, how to win them over. This isn't just a feel-good leadership theory. It's a practical roadmap to prevent small problems from becoming million-dollar crises. So tune in now! -- Key Learnings from this Conversation: Isolating aspects of your leadership or team guarantees costly surprises and missed opportunities. Openness about challenges empowers your team to deliver solutions you'd never find alone. Don't avoid discomfort or difficult conversations. Foster a culture where genuine inquiry, not rigid authority, drives rapid learning and pivots. Your actions, not just your words, build the trust and define the culture your team will embody. Unite your team around collective success to navigate conflict effectively and achieve breakthrough results. A leader's discipline to care, even when others don't, is vital for long-term team health and preventing future issues. -- Want to get in touch with the speakers? About Dan Tocchini: Dan Tocchini brings over 35 years of experience transforming executive teams for companies like Microsoft and ESPN. He champions a no-fluff approach, focusing on courageous leadership and creative conflict resolution. Dan Tocchini believes a leader with a clear vision is never held hostage by circumstance or history. Get in touch with him: About Michael Hunter: Michael Hunter is the founder of Uncommon Teams and the host of the Uncommon Leadership Podcast. He is dedicated to exploring leadership principles that empower individuals to lead with authenticity and impact. You can connect with Michael Hunter by clicking on this link: -- For more inspiring conversations like this, sign up for the Uncommon Leadership newsletter at Watch the Uncommon Leadership Podcast: Get notified on YouTube- Prefer audio? Stream here: Apple- Spotify- Presented By: Uncommon Change
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Build Teams That Will Follow You Anywhere ft. Wes Clines
07/09/2025
Build Teams That Will Follow You Anywhere ft. Wes Clines
Ever wonder why some teams thrive through chaos while others crumble? It's not about micromanagement or perfect plans—it's about trust. It's about fierce loyalty. In this powerful episode, I, Michael Hunter, and DocuSign's Director of Engineering, Wes Clines, decode the true essence of an uncommon leader. Wes shares his battle-tested "hacks" to transform teams through transparency, consistency, and non-negotiable, genuine communications. More than just theory, this conversation offers a peek into a leader's essential toolkit, showing you how to move beyond management and truly begin to lead. Discover how investing in genuine connection, embracing imperfection, and fostering open dialogue creates a culture where people don't just perform—they're empowered, resilient, and ready to follow you anywhere. Ready to transform your leadership and unleash your team's full, untapped potential? Tune into the full Uncommon Leadership Podcast episode now! -- Your learnings from the podcast: Transparency cultivates trust. Openly communicate "why" and how decisions are made to build psychological safety. A leader's reactions to mistakes (learning over blame) can empower teams to take strategic risks. Prioritizing deep, 1-on-1 connections can help uncover individual talents, strengths, and weaknesses. Embrace continuous progress and learning from inevitable mistakes for sustainable team performance. Lead beyond management through genuine connection, driving higher output and retention. -- Want to get in touch with the speakers? About Wes Clines: Wes Clines is the Director of Engineering at DocuSign, leading developer infrastructure and tools teams. With a rich background from his 15 years at Microsoft, Wes is passionate about fostering authentic team cultures built on trust and open communication. Connect with Wes Clines on LinkedIn by clicking here: About Michael Hunter: Michael Hunter is the founder of Uncommon Teams and the host of the Uncommon Leadership Podcast. He is dedicated to exploring leadership principles that empower individuals to lead with authenticity and impact. You can connect with Michael Hunter by clicking on this link: -- For more inspiring conversations like this, sign up for the Uncommon Leadership newsletter at Watch the Uncommon Leadership Podcast: Get notified on YouTube- Prefer audio? Stream here: Apple- Spotify- Presented By: Uncommon Change
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Empathy: The Foundation of Powerful Teams
07/02/2025
Empathy: The Foundation of Powerful Teams
Hello there! I'm Michael Hunter, founder of Uncommon Teams, and I'm so glad you found this episode of the Uncommon Leadership Podcast. I started this series because I constantly meet leaders battling burnout and searching for deeper impact. While I may not have all the answers you're looking for, I truly believe that professional and personal success hinges on aligning personal fulfillment with business objectives. And today, my extraordinary guest, Stephen Snyder, reveals how he found his compass. Stephen, a seasoned insurance and employee benefits expert, shares how a quirky DISC assessment helped him uncover his unique personality. This self-discovery fundamentally reshaped his approach to every interaction—especially the tough ones. You'll also hear Stephen's powerful realization about navigating uncomfortable situations, like networking events, where he discovered that authentic connection isn't about rigid tactics or hard sells, but about embracing shared vulnerability and genuine curiosity. Our conversation then deepens into why Stephen's profound empathy isn't just a personal trait, but an indispensable asset in leadership. Join us, and you just might find the key to unlocking your true self for greater happiness in work and life. -- Learnings in a Nutshell: Understand your own personality and triggers to lead yourself and others more effectively. Realize most people feel awkward in new situations; this shared vulnerability builds confidence and connection. Empathy is your superpower. Seeing people as individuals, not just roles, builds trust, solves problems, and creates psychological safety. Communication and relationships are two-sided. When we invest in people authentically, the ripple effects extend far beyond our direct interactions. -- Want to get in touch with the speakers? About Stephen Snyder: Stephen Snyder is an insurance and employee benefits expert with over 16 years of experience, passionate about helping people navigate complex systems and build genuine connections. He champions a people-first approach, using his insights to foster empathetic leadership and empower thriving teams. Get in touch with him: About Michael Hunter: Michael Hunter, founder of Uncommon Teams, empowers leaders to cultivate harmony, unlock team potential, and help people "debug themselves." He guides clients to integrate mind, heart, body, and spirit, fostering safe environments where individuals and teams achieve uncommon impact. You can connect with Michael Hunter by clicking on this link: -- For more inspiring conversations like this, sign up for the Uncommon Leadership newsletter at Watch the Uncommon Leadership Podcast: Get notified on YouTube- Prefer audio? Stream here: Apple- Spotify- Presented By: Uncommon Change
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The Uncommon Path to Time, Trust, and Thriving Teams
06/25/2025
The Uncommon Path to Time, Trust, and Thriving Teams
Whether you're battling burnout, striving for breakthrough innovation, or simply sense that something isn't quite right with your leadership journey, you are far from alone. And, you've arrived at an exciting episode of the Uncommon Leadership Podcast, which just might help you navigate these feelings. In this episode, I, Michael Hunter, sit down with the incredible Viveka von Rosen—a celebrated LinkedIn expert, bestselling author, and transformational speaker who literally lives by her philosophy of "playing all day." Together, we uncover the hidden truths behind genuine success, radical self-trust, and building truly empowered teams. Viveka shares her own raw, vulnerable journey from corporate burnout—a path that led her to question everything. She reveals how ignoring the subtle whispers of intuition can escalate into loud, undeniable shouts, forcing us to finally listen. Her story is a powerful reminder: don't wait for a crisis to make your pivot. But how do you find the time for these shifts? Will you need to wake up at 4:30 AM or work late nights? The answer is shockingly simple and extremely practical. So, take a seat and join in the conversation that goes beyond just finding time. It’s about fundamentally changing how we approach work and lead. -- Here's what you can expect to learn from this podcast↓ Learn why approaching work with joy and enthusiasm is a proven path to unprecedented productivity, less procrastination, and real, sustainable success. Discover simple, low-stakes ways to practice trusting that inner knowing, saving yourself from future regret. Discover the ultimate hack for truly valuing your team members. Learn why allowing team members to "outgrow" their roles isn't a cost, but a powerful opportunity for your business to transform and thrive. Learn to build a work culture of open communication and flexibility that empowers everyone to bring their unique brilliance to the table. -- Want to get in touch with the speakers? About Viveka von Rosen Viveka von Rosen is a celebrated LinkedIn expert, bestselling author, and transformational speaker. Having successfully pivoted from corporate burnout herself, she now empowers executives and entrepreneurs to align their authentic selves with their business goals, helping them build their legacy and unlock their full potential through her work at Beyond the Dream Board. Get in touch with her: About Michael Hunter: Michael Hunter is the host of the Uncommon Leadership podcast and founder of Uncommon Teams, guiding leaders to align personal fulfillment with business success and cultivate authentic teams. You can connect with Michael Hunter by clicking on this link: -- For more inspiring conversations like this, sign up for the Uncommon Leadership newsletter at Watch the Uncommon Leadership Podcast: Get notified on YouTube- Prefer audio? Stream here: Apple- Spotify- Presented By: Uncommon Change
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The Unconventional Secret to Authentic Leadership
06/18/2025
The Unconventional Secret to Authentic Leadership
Just can't shake the feeling that your career isn't quite aligning with who you truly are? If so, you're not alone. Many leaders wrestle with these exact challenges every single day. In this episode of the Uncommon Leadership Podcast, I, Michael Hunter, am diving deep into these very real struggles with the brilliant Dr. Rebecca Parsons, former CTO of ThoughtWorks. We intend to uncover unconventional insights that can transform your leadership, your team, and your entire sense of fulfillment. Dr. Parsons pulls back the curtain on her remarkable journey, starting with a surprising truth: even at a young age, she knew the secret to preventing that "off" feeling. It was all about defining success on her terms and embracing her authentic self—someone who truly loved math, science, and everything geeky! This is her story about how she relentlessly refused to compromise who she really was. What allowed her to develop such profound self-awareness so early? What empowered her to challenge norms and even prove a university professor wrong when he doubted women's capabilities in tech? Let's find out together. We'll discover why the authentic ability to say "I don't know" is a superpower and how focusing on outcomes instead of micromanaging unlocks creativity. Dr. Rebecca Parsons wraps her compelling journey with a bombshell: if 100% of your "innovations" succeed, you're taking too little risk. She goes on to explain the crucial difference between a bad idea and a constructive failure—a distinction that could be the key to your organization's very survival. Take a seat and join us as we tackle some of the most troublesome quandaries in organizational leadership. -- Want to get in touch with the speakers? About Dr. Rebecca Parsons: A former CTO of ThoughtWorks for 17 years, Dr. Parsons is a renowned technologist and advocate for diversity in STEM, known for her expertise in tech strategy and evolutionary architecture. About Michael Hunter: Michael Hunter is the host of the Uncommon Leadership podcast and founder of Uncommon Teams, guiding leaders to align personal fulfillment with business success and cultivate authentic teams. -- For more inspiring conversations like this, sign up for the Uncommon Leadership newsletter at Watch the Uncommon Leadership Podcast: Get notified on YouTube- Prefer audio? Stream here: Apple- Spotify- Presented By: Uncommon Change
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An Uncommon Approach to Self-Fulfilment ft. Dr. Maria H. Andersen
06/11/2025
An Uncommon Approach to Self-Fulfilment ft. Dr. Maria H. Andersen
Ever feel like you're doing great at work, hitting all your targets... but secretly, something just feels off? Then this episode on the Uncommon Leadership Podcast is for you. Join me as I interview Dr. Maria H. Andersen, a learning engineer, EdTech CEO, and highly experienced educator, on the importance of finding the balance between personal fulfilment and professional success. We talk at length about making intentional choices with your energy and how focusing on where you can make a difference is key to navigating an overwhelming world. We also explore fascinating strategies like Replenishing Personal Resources and Idea Collisions to prevent burnout and spark exciting innovations. Dr. Andersen's expertise in fostering creativity, establishing healthy boundaries, and creating positive company cultures makes this conversation essential for leaders navigating the complex intersection of personal well-being and professional excellence. If you're ready to make that change, reclaim your energy, and build a path that's truly yours, then tune in now! Want to get in touch with the speakers? Dr. Maria H. Andersen: Michael Hunter: -- For more inspiring conversations like this, sign up for the Uncommon Leadership newsletter at Watch the Uncommon Leadership Podcast: Get notified on YouTube- Prefer audio? Stream here: Apple- Spotify- Presented By: Uncommon Change
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From Stuck to Authentically ALIGNED ft. Tamar Stolz
05/21/2025
From Stuck to Authentically ALIGNED ft. Tamar Stolz
Have things not been working out for you lately? Like you're stuck, and you know deep down that something needs to shift? If you're here, give yourself a pat on the back because you've already taken the first step to embracing change. First off, I'd like to welcome you to this episode of the Uncommon Leadership Podcast, where I interview Tamar Stolz, a leadership and business strategy coach, and deliberate on the importance of bringing one's authentic self to everything they do. Identifying your strengths can help you reframe setbacks, overcome self-doubt, and self-comparisons. It can also help you ditch the one-size-fits-all approach and create strategies that work for you! Tamar addresses these topics head-on, sharing her powerful personal experiences with overcoming self-doubt. She also introduces her signature "ALIGN" framework, which focuses on strategic alignment and can help you navigate through uncertainty. But it all starts with self-awareness. Change begins when you acknowledge and step into your authentic self. To close, I'd like to leave you with this timeless wisdom: Be yourself. Everyone else is taken. If you're ready to make that change and build a path that's truly yours, this episode provides the tools and frameworks you need to get started. And if you still need help, we're just one text away! Get in touch with the speakers: Tamar Stolz: Michael Hunter: -- For more inspiring conversations like this, sign up for the Uncommon Leadership newsletter at Watch the Uncommon Leadership Podcast: Get notified on YouTube- Presented By: Uncommon Change
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A Masterclass in Effective Communication by an FBI-Trained Crisis Negotiator
05/14/2025
A Masterclass in Effective Communication by an FBI-Trained Crisis Negotiator
In this episode of Uncommon Leadership, Michael Hunter sits down with Scott Harvey, an FBI-trained hostage negotiator, speaker, author, and business communication consultant, to unpack the often-overlooked skill that separates good leaders from great ones: the ability to connect through communication. Harvey draws from his extensive experience, including his time as a D.A.R.E. officer and his work in conflict resolution and advocating for mental health discussions. His unique background provides a fresh, pragmatic, and deeply human perspective on leading with influence and building relationships that thrive. This isn't just theory; it's hard-won wisdom from someone who has navigated life-or-death conversations. Whether you’re leading a meeting or navigating a tense conversation, this episode is a masterclass in reading the room—and reshaping the outcome through the power of words. For any leader who wants to be heard, trusted, and remembered, this one’s a must. Tune in today. Want to get in touch with Scott Harvey? Email: Website: For more inspiring conversations like this, sign up for the Uncommon Leadership newsletter at Watch the Uncommon Leadership Podcast: Get notified on YouTube- Prefer audio? Stream here: Apple- Spotify- Presented By: Uncommon Change
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The True ROI of Leading With Genuine Care and Affection
05/07/2025
The True ROI of Leading With Genuine Care and Affection
Can genuine care and affection for your people truly drive business results? According to Ryan Rigterink, the answer is a resounding yes. In this episode of the Uncommon Leadership Podcast, I welcome Ryan Victor to explore the powerful yet often underestimated impact of leading with genuine care and affection. Rigterink shares his journey of transformation and introduces his philosophy of "Purpose Management," a framework rooted in leading with authentic love. Herein, he dives deep into how intentional value creation for employees can deliver hard, measurable business benefits. He also challenges the traditional view that businesses must be cold and transactional, presenting a compelling case for why warmth, empathy, and genuine concern for people's well-being are essential components of effective leadership. Tune into this conversation as it serves as a powerful reminder that leading with genuine care and affection isn't just ethically superior—it's a strategic advantage that fetches remarkable returns in terms of employee retention, performance, and overall success. To access more insights from Ryan Rigterink, explore his website: or email him at And for more inspiring conversations like this, sign up for my newsletter at . Watch the Uncommon Leadership Podcast: Get notified on YouTube- Prefer audio? Stream here: Apple- Spotify- Presented By: UncommonChange
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From Burnout to Breakthrough: Building Resilient Leaders
04/23/2025
From Burnout to Breakthrough: Building Resilient Leaders
If you've ever felt successful on the outside but empty inside, this podcast is for you. With over a decade of personal transformation and leadership experience, Maurice Martin shares his powerful journey from deep depression to becoming a transformational coach and motivational speaker. After years of hiding his authentic self and experiencing success while suffering internally, Martin reached a breaking point that prompted a profound personal transformation. In this episode of Uncommon Leadership, Michael Hunter and Maurice Martin dive into the crucial role of authenticity, personal growth, and leadership. Martin emphasizes that meaningful change doesn't require dramatic epiphanies, but comes through consistent small choices that build habits and momentum over time. Martin's expertise in navigating personal challenges, developing authentic leadership, and driving personal growth makes this a must-listen for anyone feeling stuck, burned out, or searching for a greater purpose. Explore more from Maurice Martin, including his book "Your But Is Too Big": Connect with Maurice here: For more inspiring conversations like this, sign up for my newsletter at . Watch the Uncommon Leadership Podcast: Get notified on YouTube- Prefer audio? Stream here: Apple- Spotify- Presented By: UncommonChange
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Leading with Intention ft. Sonya Siderova
04/08/2025
Leading with Intention ft. Sonya Siderova
In a world where teams are up against burnout and inefficiency, Sonya Siderova, CEO of Nave, takes a unique approach—one rooted in trust. “I don't manage people; I manage workflows,” she shares, emphasizing the power of leadership that empowers, rather than controlling teams. In this episode of Uncommon Leadership, Michael Hunter and Sonya Siderova explore the true impact of work-life boundaries, the role of self-trust in leadership, and how personal systems can drive positive business outcomes. They also reveal why bottlenecks—not people—are often the real challenge in workflow management. Tune in now to learn the surprising truth about managing people workflows. Make Reliable Sprint Commitments with Sonya's Free Guide: Want to get in touch with Sonya? LinkedIn: Website: For more inspiring conversations like this, sign up for my newsletter at . Watch the Uncommon Leadership Podcast: Get notified on YouTube- Prefer audio? Stream here: Apple- Spotify- Presented By: UncommonChange
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Mastering the Human Element ft. Garrett Delph
03/25/2025
Mastering the Human Element ft. Garrett Delph
With over 25 years of experience building multiple scalable businesses worldwide, Garrett Delph observes, “Most business owners and leaders don't want to solve culture problems just for the sake of solving culture problems” within their organizations. But Delph is “crazy allergic to bad culture and chaos” and his motivation to solve culture problems remains a priority—irrespective of what it does to revenue and sales. In this episode of Uncommon Leadership: Garrett Delph, the founder & CEO of Clarity Ops and I, examine the critical role of company culture in building high-performing teams. We discuss how addressing organizational challenges early on and balancing strategic objectives and operational realities is a must for success. Delph's expertise in architecting finely tuned organizational cultures, developing management leaders, and driving business growth at scale makes this a must-listen. Tune in now! Want to get in touch with Garrett? LinkedIn: Website: For more inspiring conversations like this, sign up for my newsletter at . Watch the Uncommon Leadership Podcast: Get notified on YouTube- Prefer audio? Stream here: Apple- Spotify- Presented By: UncommonChange
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The Art of the Ask: How To Negotiate & Feel Good About It
03/18/2025
The Art of the Ask: How To Negotiate & Feel Good About It
Ever feel like you have to be someone else to succeed in negotiations? Do negotiation conversations make you want to hide? Then this podcast is for you as Michael Hunter from Uncommon Teams and John Gates, founder of Salary Coach, reveal how negotiation doesn't have to be a power struggle. In this episode, you'll see how negotiations can be an opportunity for mutual gain. If you dream it, you can ask for it — but here’s the trick: you have to know how and when. According to Gates, being authentic during the negotiation process can be powerful. It can help you build win-win agreements, develop a deep understanding of the other party's needs, and achieve better outcomes—without sacrificing their personal values or professional relationships. This conversation is nothing short of a masterclass and will forever change the way you approach every negotiation. Tune in now, so you never leave money on the table again! Want to take control of the compensation conversation? Visit: Website: LinkedIn: Here’s the 5th Chapter from John’s book: “Act Your Wage.” For more inspiring conversations like this, sign up for my newsletter at . Watch the Uncommon Leadership Podcast: Get notified on YouTube- Prefer audio? Stream here: Apple- Spotify- Presented By: UncommonChange
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Elevate workplace joy: Kevin Wilkins
11/18/2024
Elevate workplace joy: Kevin Wilkins
Kevin was surprised when learned he had passed his college accounting exam with flying colors. After all, while he could explain how he would approach the accounting, the bulk of his answer noted that the organizational dynamics of the example's company were so unhealthy that no financial changes would be effective until the culture was changed. Turns out, his professor agreed. Kevin Wilkins is the Founder and CEO of Trepwise, a strategy consulting firm whose mission is to unlock the potential of purpose-driven organizations by aligning people, process, and vision. And which has been named one of the Best Places to Work by CityBusiness for the last 7 years. With over 35 years of experience in non-profit, corporate and private ventures, Kevin has built a company that teaches to put people at the center of their work. We discuss the importance of joy and fulfillment at work, clear organizational values and belief systems, and consciously creating workplace culture. Kevin's Shared Leadership Toolkit is at , alongside the other toolkits he mentions. Connect with him via email: [email protected]; LinkedIn: ; X: , and Facebook . For more inspiring conversations like this, sign up for my newsletter at . And follow Uncommon Leadership wherever you get your podcasts.
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Breathe into your life: Ron Stotts
11/04/2024
Breathe into your life: Ron Stotts
Ron finds that our busy minds are hoarders—and that clearing that out can start as simply as a few deep breaths. Dr. Ron Stotts is a three-time bestselling author with a PhD in psychology, a Dr. of Chiropractic, and has been teaching mediation for over forty-five years. He's explored the depths of ancient wisdom and the latest in psychological neurological studies, and leadership as he guides entrepreneurs and executives into the highest levels of conscious leadership. We discuss how critical inner work and self-acceptance are to leading effectively, and how mindful living and simply breathing can help us with that work and ease our way through change. Find the resources Ron mentions at his website: . Connect with him there: ; on Facebook: ; on LinkedIn: ; and on YouTube: For more inspiring conversations like this, sign up for my newsletter at . And follow Uncommon Leadership wherever you get your podcasts.
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Be a good person: Rob Beachy
10/21/2024
Be a good person: Rob Beachy
Rob says the gift most responsible for his success is his humor. Rob Beachy started out his career in the military and took those skills and transitioned in the civilian world as a technical support representative, network admin, IT consulting engineer and ultimately to his current role as Chief Information Officer at Sturgis Bank & Trust. We discuss learning from failures, fostering open communication, the benefits of building an inclusive culture, and never taking himself too seriously. Contact Rob via LinkedIn: or email: [email protected]. For more inspiring conversations like this, sign up for my newsletter at . And follow Uncommon Leadership wherever you get your podcasts.
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Welcome opportunities through challenge: Kumar and Amit Ramlall
10/07/2024
Welcome opportunities through challenge: Kumar and Amit Ramlall
Amit and Kumar don't mind being cogs in a machine—because they know they are the perfect cog for their part of the machine. Dr. Kumar Ramlall is an investor, entrepreneur, medical specialist, and a respected business advisor. He has a distinguished academic background and extensive practical experience. Amit Chintan Ramlall possesses a unique gift for helping leaders transform their challenges into opportunity. His own journey out of the Autism maze helped him become an expert in the human mind and human achievement. He integrates the vast knowledge he's gained from reading over 14,000 non-fiction books with his unique insights to fulfill his deepest desire of helping individuals discover and manifest their life's purpose. Together, Kumar and Amit founded the Chintan Project to help clients leverage their unique purpose and unique challenges for greater impact and rewards. They specialize in helping clients, typically business owners, solve their people problems, the ones ‘above’ HR. They help them either love their businesses again – or exit so that they love their lives again. We chat about overcoming people problems in business, transforming challenges into opportunities, and how to fall in love with your work all over again. Find Kumar and Amit at . Connect with Kumar on Facebook: and on LinkedIn: , and connect with Amit on Facebook: and on LinkedIn: For more inspiring conversations like this, sign up for my newsletter at . And follow Uncommon Leadership wherever you get your podcasts.
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Demonstrate positive personal impact: Mark Fulcher
09/23/2024
Demonstrate positive personal impact: Mark Fulcher
The highlight of Mark's career was his time helping the Victorian government partner with private businesses to react to and recover from the 2009 Australian bushfires. Mark Fulcher is the managing director of Beacon Consult, a leadership and organisation performance consultancy, based out of Melbourne Australia. Mark has taken his experience from leadership roles in Big 4 consulting and multinationals to help growing SMEs (small-medium orgs) get set up for future success. Mark believes that business success is so closely tied to leadership effectiveness - and so should stay front and centre for all organisations. We discuss the intricacies of effective leadership in times of crisis, Mark's experiences driving transformative change in organizations, and the critical importance of empathy, emotional regulation, and personal well-being in leadership. Mark's Beacon Consult’s Guide to Overcoming Growing Pains and Finding Success: Connect with Mark on LinkedIn: and email: [email protected] For more inspiring conversations like this, sign up for my newsletter at . And follow Uncommon Leadership wherever you get your podcasts.
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Believe in Wonder: Adrian Koehler
09/09/2024
Believe in Wonder: Adrian Koehler
When Adrian watches a TV show or movie, he always understands the villain. Adrian Koehler is a leadership engagement expert and senior partner at the executive coaching firm, Take New Ground. We discuss using authenticity and conversation to build meaningful connections, and the profound significance of our personal gifts and the impact they can have on those around us. Adrian's free e-book The Change Imperative is at . Connect with Adrian on LinkedIn: and Instragram: For more inspiring conversations like this, sign up for my newsletter at . And follow Uncommon Leadership wherever you get your podcasts.
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People are heuristics: Michael Bolton
05/27/2024
People are heuristics: Michael Bolton
Michael finds that dealing with actors is perfect preparation for being a software program manager. Michael Bolton is a consulting software tester and testing teacher who helps people to solve testing problems that they didn't realize they could solve. Michael has over 30 years of experience testing, developing, managing, and writing about software, and has traveled to six continents to help people learn about testing. We discuss the importance of diverse talents and perspectives in software development and testing, the power of metaphor, and how useful embracing failure can be. Contact Michael at [email protected], on LinkedIn , on Twitter @michaelbolton, or through his website, . For more inspiring conversations like this, sign up for my newsletter at . And follow Uncommon Leadership wherever you get your podcasts.
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Enjoy your journey: Brad Voorhees
05/13/2024
Enjoy your journey: Brad Voorhees
Brad has been road tripping to Up North Michigan with his best buddies for twenty-four years. Brad Voorhees is the cornerstone of ScaleTx, bringing a wealth of experience with over 15 years in leadership roles and a track record of building and scaling HR departments from the ground up. His expertise lies in providing strategic guidance, hands-on leadership, and mentorship, driving HR departments to become instrumental in organizational growth. We discuss recognizing leadership potential, assessing communication skills, being a net positive influence, and effective learning journeys. Connect with Brad via his website: scaletx.io, email: [email protected], or LinkedIn: . For more inspiring conversations like this, sign up for my newsletter at . And follow Uncommon Leadership wherever you get your podcasts.
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Foster curiosity: Chandler Cutler
04/29/2024
Foster curiosity: Chandler Cutler
Chandler believes conflict is necessary for building strong teams. Chandler Cutler embarked on his entrepreneurial journey at just 21. In the two decades since, he has mastered the art of leadership, communication, and resilience, facing real-world business challenges head-on, culminating in the founding of CorEthos. Chandler and CorEthos emphasize the humanity behind every business operation. They help you transform your business with a people-first approach that keeps humanity at the core while ensuring long-term commitment and transparent communication as they collaborate on your path to elevate and scale your business. We chat about creating a space for vulnerability while maintaining professionalism, leveraging team members' expertise for continuous learning, simple ways to resolve even the most challenging communication issues. The downloads Chandler mentions are here: Connect with Chandler at , , and @CorEthos on all the socials. For more inspiring conversations like this, sign up for my newsletter at . And follow Uncommon Leadership wherever you get your podcasts.
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Feed your good wolf: Jay Floyd
04/15/2024
Feed your good wolf: Jay Floyd
Jay used to think that managing was all about coaching. Jay Floyd is a data engineering leader, life coach, and podcaster. He is also the curator of the 'What's Good' brand, dedicated to finding the good in all of life's scenarios, or as he calls it, 'feeding our good wolf.' We discuss leading with a personal touch, the power of positive growth, fostering rich team environments, and the wolves we carry inside us. Connect with Jay via his website: and LinkedIn: . For more inspiring conversations like this, sign up for my newsletter at . And follow Uncommon Leadership wherever you get your podcasts.
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Respect your people: Colleen Johnson
04/01/2024
Respect your people: Colleen Johnson
Colleen's family helps her remember that we never know what's going on for anyone else. Colleen Johnson has been working in the technology space for over 20 years, with half of that focused on improving the way we deliver value. She has taught and presented agile concepts to audiences around the world but is happiest in the Colorado mountains with her husband and three kids. We discuss the most useful metric for team progress, the benefits of nurturing creativity in retaining talent, and how diversity impacts learning opportunities. Join the ProKanban.org slack community at prokanban.org > About Us > Slack Community Find the Kanban for Everyone videos at Connect with Colleen on LinkedIn: and Twitter: @scrumhive For more inspiring conversations like this, sign up for my newsletter at . And follow Uncommon Leadership wherever you get your podcasts.
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Humanize your leadership: Gerardo Segat
03/18/2024
Humanize your leadership: Gerardo Segat
When Gerardo's soul takes flight, it lands on top of a mountain covered in snow. Because he loves helicopter skiing. Gerardo Segat is an international leadership coach whose purpose and legacy is to humanize leadership. Following a wealth of experiences as entrepreneur, chairman and CEO, Gerardo has used his leadership background to create Preludes: a coaching program created to humanize leaders, organizations, and their stakeholders through creative and powerful original experiences (such as decision-making debates, client interaction models, and emotions-focused team meetings). Currently, Gerardo is working on Out As Humans, a performing arts show designed to humanize authentic leaders. Out as Humans is an individual and group immersive performance that creates a space for leaders to be open, trusting, empathetic, and feel a sense of belonging. We discuss the radical effects of vulnerability, creating cultures of openness, integrating open hearts into the workplace, and the importance of self-awareness. Connect with Gerardo via email: [email protected]; LinkedIn: ; and his website: . For more inspiring conversations like this, sign up for my newsletter at . And follow Uncommon Leadership wherever you get your podcasts.
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Cultivate discomfort: Nevin Danielson
03/04/2024
Cultivate discomfort: Nevin Danielson
Nevin believes that success is directly related to discomfort. With decades of experience as a facilitator, coach, and trainer, Nevin Danielson helps leaders and their teams ignite purpose, possibility, and partnerships to sustain an energized workforce amidst evolving trends like turnover and remote work. After a quarter-life crisis showed him the value of serving others, Nevin founded Induction Consulting to uncover practical steps that tap teams' untapped potential. His skills cut through outdated expectations and elevate processes and interactions to be fresh, meaningful, and authentic. We discuss shifting culture through embracing discomfort, the transformative approach Nevin developed for empowering his team, and giving feedback to power. Download Nevin's Trailblazer cheat sheet at Connect with Nevin at [email protected], , and . "Please mention that they found me through Uncommon Leadership!" For more inspiring conversations like this, sign up for my newsletter at . And follow Uncommon Leadership wherever you get your podcasts.
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Evolve autonomous leaders: Pawel Brodzinski
02/19/2024
Evolve autonomous leaders: Pawel Brodzinski
Pawel approaches leadership as a series of experiments and iterations. Pawel Brodzinski is a seasoned leader, manager, and coach. He's done pretty much every aspect of building software, both as the person doing the work and as the leader helping that person. Pawel also writes, speaks, and lectures in service of helping organizational cultures to create exceptional workplaces. Because that's what brings him the most fun. I ran across Pawel on LinkedIn, where I am consistently impressed with his light, yet forthright, take on thorny topics like the right way to give kudos and salary transparency. We discuss aligning vision, fostering radical autonomy, making decisions without traditional hierarchy, and creating environments where leadership is not a title but an action. Connect with Pawel at and [email protected]. For more inspiring conversations like this, sign up for my newsletter at . And follow Uncommon Leadership wherever you get your podcasts.
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Nurture a soulful workplace: Jardena London
02/05/2024
Nurture a soulful workplace: Jardena London
Jardena believes even corporate budgeting can be soulful. Jardena London is an author, speaker, community leader, and Business Transformation Consultant who helps businesses thrive by using a soulful lens. We discuss the value of humanity over systems, learning from failure, and redefining conflict and resilience. Join the Transformational Leadership Community at learning.cultivatingtransformations.com Find Jardena's book Cultivating Transformations: A Leader’s Guide to Connecting the Soulful and the Practical at and other booksellers Connect with Jardena: [email protected] linkedin.com/in/jardena rosettaagile.com jardenalondon.com cultivatingtransformations.com For more inspiring conversations like this, sign up for my newsletter at . And follow Uncommon Leadership wherever you get your podcasts.
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What can you execute? Dave Rodabaugh
01/22/2024
What can you execute? Dave Rodabaugh
Dave wants to know things. He doesn't so much enjoy the learning part of that. Dave Rodabaugh has 23 years of experience making analytical data products by turning THIS data into THAT model. He also has a track record of teaching others to do it, and helping them turn into data leaders. Data products are built by teams of people, not by technology, Dave holds. We discuss the frameworks that help Dave navigate life, improving team cohesion through understanding how we work best, and the wisdom in the counsel of the many. Contact Dave at [email protected] and . For more inspiring conversations like this, sign up for my newsletter at . And follow Uncommon Leadership wherever you get your podcasts.
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