A Leadership Beyond
Waiting for a new normal? Don't hold your breath. It's not really new and it's not really normal. Go ahead and breathe. We've long endured change. It's just happening faster, so it feels more extreme. To thrive in these choppy waters, we can reevaluate and reinvent. You can do it. But not alone. Even if you could, what fun would that be? Tom Rosenak and Adrienne Guerrero are talent optimization specialists who can help us navigate this complex moment in the working world. If you’re feeling lost, isolated or simply seeking professional camaraderie, you’re invited to join our community today. We look forward to meeting you. Breathe: it will be fun. And we’ll navigate it together.
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The Purposeful Pause: Leadership Beyond the Lines
12/03/2024
The Purposeful Pause: Leadership Beyond the Lines
As the year winds down, the holiday season's chaos often drowns out critical reflection. To grow as leaders, we must intentionally create space for thoughtful review—pausing the reactive frenzy to revisit values, acknowledge missteps, reconnect with relationships, and reignite aspirations before diving into next year's goals and plans. This deliberate pause provides an opportunity to transform end-of-year busyness from a distraction to a time of meaningful personal and professional renewal. As co-founders of A Leadership Beyond, Adrienne and Tom are practicing what we teach: taking a purposeful pause to reflect before rushing into action. While we're excited about an upcoming year filled with panel discussions, new services, and leadership strategies, we're first taking time to thoughtfully review, learn, and realign. This approach embodies the essence of our podcast—demonstrating that true leadership begins with intentional reflection. This episode is an invitation to all leaders to step back, breathe, and create space for meaningful reflection before diving into the river of reactivity. We explore the power of pausing, examining our accomplishments, learning from challenges, and realigning with our core values as we prepare for the coming year. Highlights of the conversation: Importance of carving space for personal reflection, even amidst the busy holiday season. Practical strategies for taking 10-15 minutes to reconnect to core values and assess what you accomplished and what may need refinement. How personal touches can increase engagement through deeper connection. Understanding the power of M2 in your S.M.A.R.T goal setting. Effective goals must be meaningful, motivating and measurable. Importance of finding trusted partners to provide objective feedback. Sometimes a partner with no skin in that game can shed valuable light on your dilemma. The overall message is that taking a purposeful pause for reflection and renewal can transform the end-of-year chaos into a meaningful time of personal and professional growth for leaders. We’d love to hear about your success (and challenges) with leadership beyond the lines. A Leadership Beyond exists to support the alignment between the business strategy and people strategy - to drive results with people not at the expense of people (Talent Optimization). Subscribe to our podcast to join the Leadership Beyond Community of Conversation and hear insights from thought leaders and human development experts leading the way in the field of Talent Optimization. We are grateful to you and always eager to hear from you! To learn more visit https://aleadershipbeyond.com.
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From the Vault - A Conversation with Matt Poepsel on Talent Optimization
11/19/2024
From the Vault - A Conversation with Matt Poepsel on Talent Optimization
For this week’s episode, we're revisiting a clip from a fascinating panel discussion from our vault that explores how HR professionals can become true strategic partners in their organizations. But before we jump in, let's frame the conversation through the lens of Talent Optimization, a critical framework that many organizations are missing. Adrienne and I work together to help organizations leverage people data to drive success in their business strategy. Think of Talent Optimization as the strategic alignment of your people strategy with your business objectives. It's like a well choreographed dance where your workforce capability, team dynamics and organizational culture move in perfect sync with your business goals. When this alignment is off, the consequences can be severe. And that's exactly what we'll hear about in this clip from our conversation with Matt Poepsel, often referred to as the “Godfather of Talent Optimization”. Matt talks about the real business costs of misalignment. And it turns out that most business problems are people problems in disguise. Tune in to learn about the damage that's done when we don't align our people strategy and our business strategy -and what you can do to bring your people and business goals back into sync. Listen now and start transforming your people strategy into a powerful lever for success. A Leadership Beyond exists to support the alignment between the business strategy and people strategy - to drive results with people not at the expense of people (Talent Optimization). Subscribe to our podcast to join the Leadership Beyond Community of Conversation and hear insights from thought leaders and human development experts leading the way in the field of Talent Optimization. As always, we’d love to hear from you about your insights, challenges, and successes around leading (self and others) through transitions. To learn more visit https://aleadershipbeyond.com.
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Foundations of Engagement: Insights from Olivier Aries
11/05/2024
Foundations of Engagement: Insights from Olivier Aries
In this week's episode of A Leadership Beyond, we're taking a journey back to a powerful conversation from our vault, originally recorded in 2022. Our featured guest, Olivier Aries—a certified Predictive Index practitioner with a deep focus on workplace engagement—shares invaluable insights into what it truly means to cultivate engagement within organizations. Olivier breaks down: What engagement is Why it’s important to pay attention to it What we should be doing about it How we should be focused on it We’re excited to reintroduce this episode as part of our commitment to an upcoming panel series dedicated solely to the topic of engagement. This episode serves as the perfect foundation for exploring what engagement is, why it matters, and how leaders can harness it for the benefit of their teams. Join us as Olivier Aries delves into the essentials of workplace engagement, setting the stage for deeper conversations in our forthcoming engagement series. A Leadership Beyond exists to support the alignment between the business strategy and people strategy - to drive results with people not at the expense of people (Talent Optimization). Subscribe to our podcast to join the Leadership Beyond Community of Conversation and hear insights from thought leaders and human development experts leading the way in the field of Talent Optimization. As always, we’d love to hear from you about your insights, challenges, and successes around leading (self and others) through transitions. To learn more visit https://aleadershipbeyond.com.
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Energy Creating Engagement for Sustainable Performance
10/22/2024
Energy Creating Engagement for Sustainable Performance
Energy Creating Engagement for Sustainable Performance For this week’s episode we are revisiting the podcast vault as we prepare for a new leadership series focused on Employee Engagement. Our hosts Adrienne and Tom continue to glean gems from a previously released engaging conversation with Bryan Sykes. Bryan Sykes is a healthcare professional, neurobiologist, and martial artist working at the 4-way intersection of people, science, technology, and business to support human thriving. Bryan shares his journey of exploring performance enhancement and how the realm of athletics emerges as an illuminating beacon. Bryan touches on themes of well-being, energy management, and creating an environment that fosters engagement - all of which are relevant to our upcoming engagement series. Our hosts are excited to "round the house again" and bring Sykes' insights back into the conversation. Key Highlights from this dynamic conversation: - Bryan has a background in medicine and sports psychology, and he draws insights from how athletes prepare, perform, and recover that are applicable to professionals in any field. - Bryan is passionate about helping people and organizations understand the neurobiology and science behind managing mental, physical, emotional, and social energy. He believes this is key to avoiding burnout and elevating engagement. - Bryan emphasizes the importance of creating space, pausing, and reflecting in order to learn and grow, rather than just constantly pushing for productivity and checking tasks off a list. - He challenges the notion that people are inherently resistant to change, arguing that people are primed for change but often struggle with the process of changing. Providing the right support and environment is crucial. - He advocates for a "humanity-centered" rather than just "human-centered" approach, considering the broader, long-term impacts on society and the planet, not just short-term business goals. A Leadership Beyond aligns powerfully with Bryan’s focus on holistic, scientific, and human-centric approach to elevating engagement and well-being, providing a sound foundation for the themes we plan to explore in our upcoming engagement series. A Leadership Beyond exists to support the alignment between the business strategy and people strategy - to drive results with people not at the expense of people (Talent Optimization). Subscribe to our podcast to join the Leadership Beyond Community of Conversation and hear insights from thought leaders and human development experts leading the way in the field of Talent Optimization. As always, we’d love to hear from you about your insights, challenges, and successes around leading (self and others) through transitions.
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Leading Beyond the Ordinary - How Anatoliy Labinskiy Built a High-Performing Remote Team with Extreme Ownership
10/08/2024
Leading Beyond the Ordinary - How Anatoliy Labinskiy Built a High-Performing Remote Team with Extreme Ownership
"A pessimist sees the difficulty in every opportunity; an optimist sees the opportunity in every difficulty." – Winston Churchill The path to extraordinary leadership is rarely a straight line. It's a winding journey, paved with adversity, setbacks, and the courage to chart a course beyond the status quo. It takes a unique blend of determination, resilience, and humility to stay the course and bring others along to the land of A Leadership Beyond. In this episode, we sit down with Anatoliy Labinskiy, whose story embodies the spirit of leadership that goes beyond the confines of a traditional career. From humble beginnings as an immigrant in Dubai to building multiple seven-figure businesses, Anatoliy has navigated the ups and downs of entrepreneurship with a relentless drive to create a better future - for himself, his family, and the teams he's assembled along the Way. Anatoliy has a unique blend of grit, innovation, and an unwavering commitment to his team. In this insightful discussion, Anatoliy shares the key qualities that have propelled his success, the strategies he's employed to cultivate a high-performing, remote workforce, and his perspective on leveraging emerging technologies like AI to stay ahead of the curve. His experiences and lessons offer a roadmap for leaders who are ready to lead. Key highlights include: • The three critical qualities for entrepreneurial success: All-in determination Willingness to take big risks Defining a strong "why" beyond just money • Cultivating an "extreme ownership" mindset in his remote team, where each person is an entrepreneur of their own role. This drives accountability and Results. • Leveraging AI strategically to boost productivity and efficiency, without letting it dehumanize the workforce. Anatoliy emphasizes adapting skills to complement AI rather than being replaced by it. • Three leadership encouragements for the new world: Never stop learning Genuinely care for your team Diligently track performance metrics to identify and address issues Anatoliy's journey is a powerful example of how grit, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to one's vision can pave the way to success, even when the odds may seem stacked against us. This is a valuable lesson for anyone looking to lead beyond the constraints of the ordinary and make a lasting impact. We welcome and encourage the continued participation of all our listeners, whether you're an established leader, an aspiring entrepreneur, or simply someone seeking to cultivate a mindset and approach that can create positive change. Your voices, your stories, and your unique insights are invaluable in shaping the ongoing dialogue around what it means to lead beyond the ordinary. A Leadership Beyond is led by Change Management Consultant Adrienne Guerrero and Leadership Communication Strategist Tom Rosenak, and exists to support the alignment between business strategy and people strategy - to drive results with people not at the expense of people (Talent Optimization). Subscribe to our podcast to join the Leadership Beyond Community of Conversation and hear insights from thought leaders and human development experts leading the way in the field of Talent Optimization. As always, we’d love to hear from you about your insights, challenges, and successes around leading (self and others) through transitions. To learn more visit https://aleadershipbeyond.com.
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Mindfulness and Leadership - A Conversation with Dot Proux
09/24/2024
Mindfulness and Leadership - A Conversation with Dot Proux
"You will have bad times, but they will always wake you up to the stuff you weren'tpaying attention to." - Robin Williams Welcome back, community! After a brief summer hiatus, our hosts Adrienne and Tom are excited to return with a special episode focusing on mindfulness and leadership. This episode builds on our recent sprint of panel discussions covering a wide array of leadership topics, including two panels on wellbeing at the individual, team, enterprise, and global levels. In the introduction to this episode Adrienne Guerrero and Tom Rosenak set the stage for our guest interview: They discuss the constant pressure on leaders to "keep going" without adequate time for strategic thinking and reflection. They emphasize the interconnectedness of individual well-being, team performance, and business outcomes like retention and engagement. The co-founders liken self-care to maintenance in a mechanical system - neglectingthe "human machines" inevitably leads to decreased productivity. They stress the importance of open conversations about stress and well-being, even when additional resources aren't available. Adrienne and Tom highlight the need for personalized approaches to stress management, acknowledging that everyone experiences stress and VUCA (Volatility, Uncertainty, Complexity, and Ambiguity) differently. We're thrilled to welcome back Dot Proux our featured guest, who previously joined us on a panel about self-leadership. Dot is an executive coach and leadership development advisor who teaches an 8-week Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) course. Highlights from our conversation with Dot: Dot's background: Before becoming a coach, she was a partner at a Big 4 accounting firm, experiencing high stress and burnout firsthand. Personal experience: Dot shares her journey with "cliffing" - pushing herself too hard until her body forced her to stop and recover. Empathy in coaching: She now uses her personal experiences to connect with and support her high-performing, high-stress leadership clients. Mindfulness-Based Stress Reduction (MBSR) benefits: Research shows that MBSR can improve focus, present moment awareness, and overall well-being. Course structure: Dot's 8-week MBSR program includes: Formal and informal mindfulness exercises Accountability and support from a cohortGradual building of the "mindfulness muscle" Opportunity to join Dot's Fall MBSR Cohort To enroll in the upcoming fall program or learn more about mindfulness, visit: Join us as we continue to explore leadership practices that keep the human front and center in the face of the sometimes dehumanizing modern leadership challenges. A Leadership Beyond is led by Change Management Consultant Adrienne Guerrero and Leadership Communication Strategist Tom Rosenak, and exists to support the alignment between business strategy and people strategy - to drive results with people not at the expense of people (Talent Optimization). Subscribe to our podcast to join the Leadership Beyond Community of Conversation and hear insights from thought leaders and human development experts leading the way in the field of Talent Optimization. As always, we’d love to hear from you about your insights, challenges, and successes around leading (self and others) through transitions. To learn more visit https://aleadershipbeyond.com. Tom & Adrienne
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Self-Leadership Panel Discussion Part 2
07/30/2024
Self-Leadership Panel Discussion Part 2
Leadership in today's dynamic world demands more than just managing others -- it requires mastering oneself. Our engaging panel discussions on diverse leadership topics consistently lead us back to a fundamental concept: our internal locus of control and how we respond to the challenges of change. Dr. Ana Kazan eloquently defines self-leadership as "the practice of intentionally influencing your thinking, feeling and actions towards your objectives." This powerful idea forms the foundation of our exploration into personal and professional growth. In a lively and interactive conversation, Dotty Posto and Dot Proux, draw from their rich career experiences and their passion for guiding others. Pause, breathe, smile. 😊 We couldn’t plan a two-Dorothy panel if our life depended on it. Serendipity! They offer invaluable insights and practical strategies for enhancing our self-leadership capabilities, empowering us to navigate the complexities of modern leadership with greater wellbeing, confidence, and effectiveness. Summary of key points in the discussion: The critical importance of self-leadership and self-awareness in managerial roles Recognizing and preventing burnout through proactive self-care measures Managing energy levels and aligning work with strengths for optimal performance The role of emotional intelligence in leadership and personal well being The impact of self-care on productivity, creativity, and problem-solving Dot made a point that deserves an underscore apart from the bulleted list. This reminder creates a sound foundation for the rest of the self-leadership tips. Prioritize meaningful relationships with loved ones. Give your work your best but not your ALL. This a reminder of ancient script, “What profit a woman if she gains the whole world and loses her soul?” The insights shared by Dotty and Dot merely scratch the surface of the profound wisdom contained in our full conversation. Their experiences and strategies offer a roadmap for cultivating leadership that goes beyond traditional paradigms, embracing personal growth and well-being as fundamental to professional success. We urge you to make space to listen to the entire discussion to fully absorb the nuances of their personal reflections in addition to their strategies and tips. We also encourage you to comment and reach out to us to have your perspectives in the mix. Stay tuned for more thought-provoking panel discussions on cultivating a leadership beyond. Wherever this exciting journey brings us, let’s not lose sight of the truth: Leadership always begins with leading self! A Leadership Beyond is led by Change Management Consultant Adrienne Guerrero and Leadership Communication Strategist Tom Rosenak, and exists to support the alignment between business strategy and people strategy - to drive results with people not at the expense of people (Talent Optimization). Subscribe to our podcast to join the Leadership Beyond Community of Conversation and hear insights from thought leaders and human development experts leading the way in the field of Talent Optimization. As always, we’d love to hear from you about your insights, challenges, and successes around leading (self and others) through transitions. To learn more visit https://aleadershipbeyond.com.
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Women in Leadership With Heather H. Bennett
07/16/2024
Women in Leadership With Heather H. Bennett
We had to make a slight adjustment in our planned panel discussion on empowering women for executive roles. Originally, we intended to feature a joint conversation with Beth Hilbing, co-founder of C-Sweet, and Heather H. Bennett, partner at Newport LLC. However, due to unexpected travel delays in Chicago, we've had to adjust our format. Instead of a single panel discussion, we'll be presenting two separate conversations. Today, we're excited to share our insightful discussion with Heather H. Bennett. Stay tuned for Beth’s valuable contributions which will be featured in the upcoming weeks. Heather brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the discussion of women in leadership roles. And with four children, she certainly knows the landscape of navigating career and personal aspirations and challenges. Among other things, we talked about the current trends and challenges for today’s aspiring female business leaders. A few of the highlights and suggestions from this engaging conversation. Trends in the overall job market and specifically for women The importance of supporting employees throughout their career lifecycle Imposter syndrome as women often feel they must be 110% The importance of giving yourself grace when things don’t go perfectly Setting boundaries when communicating needs with your team Prioritizing networking for your current role and future roles Finding multiple mentors within and outside your organization A dominant thread that runs throughout this conversation and all of Heather’s work: Self-awareness and human connection are crucial, regardless of your specific career aspirations. Enjoy the conversation with Heather, and please stay connected! Community matters! A Leadership Beyond is led by Change Management Consultant Adrienne Guerrero and Leadership Communication Strategist Tom Rosenak, and exists to support the alignment between business strategy and people strategy - to drive results with people not at the expense of people (Talent Optimization). Subscribe to our podcast to join the Leadership Beyond Community of Conversation and hear insights from thought leaders and human development experts leading the way in the field of Talent Optimization. As always, we’d love to hear from you about your insights, challenges, and successes around leading (self and others) through transitions. To learn more visit https://aleadershipbeyond.com.
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HR as Strategic Allies Panel Discussion
06/18/2024
HR as Strategic Allies Panel Discussion
You’ve heard it said, “Your people are your greatest asset”. (ad infinitum). Well, quiet quitting, the great resignation and other trends make clear, they aren’t an asset, you don’t own them. They are your greatest investment and the leaders that learn to better align talent strategies with business objectives will be better poised for long-term sustainability and growth. We recently had an insightful conversation with three HR experts on our podcast, Dr. Eric D. Hieger, Jackie Kaweck, and Ian Ziskin. We discussed strategies for HR professionals to establish their value and secure a seat at the executive table. Regardless of your function within an organization it is essential to understand both business strategy and people strategy. Here are a few key highlights from our conversation: Develop a deep understanding of business acumen and the organization's value chain to effectively contribute to strategic decisions. Seek opportunities to collaborate with other functions, learn from their challenges, and gain multidisciplinary perspectives. Advocate for HR initiatives by building a compelling business case and effectively communicating the value proposition to stakeholders. Elevate expectations for HR capabilities and delivery, positioning HR as strategic partners rather than reactive problem-solvers. Embrace a mindset of continuous learning, joining competitive industries to accelerate growth and push boundaries. The experts emphasized the importance of HR professionals shedding self-limiting beliefs and embracing a strategic mindset. By demonstrating their ability to drive business success, HR can solidify its role as a critical partner in shaping organizational strategy. Stay tuned for ongoing conversations with business leaders, during which we'll continue to gain multiple perspectives on relevant issues - personal, interpersonal, and strategic - bringing ideas on how you can cultivate a Leadership Beyond. We thank our panel for this dynamic conversation sharing their passion, insight, and practical strategies. We are hopeful you will enjoy and benefit from this conversation as much as we have. Together, let's forge a path toward better people, better work, and a brighter tomorrow. A Leadership Beyond is led by Change Management Consultant Adrienne Guerrero and Leadership Communication Strategist Tom Rosenak, and exists to support the alignment between business strategy and people strategy - to drive results with people not at the expense of people (Talent Optimization). Subscribe to our podcast to join the Leadership Beyond Community of Conversation and hear insights from thought leaders and human development experts leading the way in the field of Talent Optimization. As always, we’d love to hear from you about your insights, challenges, and successes around leading (self and others) through transitions. To learn more visit https://aleadershipbeyond.com.
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Technology's Impact on People Strategy: Leading with Heart in the Digital Age
06/04/2024
Technology's Impact on People Strategy: Leading with Heart in the Digital Age
"Technology is nothing. What's important is that you have faith in people, that they're basically good and smart, and if you give them tools, they'll do wonderful things with them." -Steve Jobs In today's dynamic business world, technology stands out as a transformative force, dramatically reshaping our workplaces. From AI-driven recruitment to remote work enablers, these innovations do more than change work methods—they fundamentally alter how companies view their most significant investment: their people. We've moved past the outdated notion of referring to employees as "assets." The Great Resignation and quiet quitting phenomena starkly remind us that people aren't possessions; they're individuals with agency who choose where to invest their talents. Instead, we recognize our workforce as our largest and most precious investment. To maximize the return on this people investment, companies must carefully align three critical elements: 1. Human-centered values and timeless principles (our true north) 2. Business strategy 3. People strategy This alignment not only enhances productivity, but also fosters a culture where employees feel valued, engaged, and committed—a win-win that benefits both the individual and the organization. In this enlightening podcast episode, our expert panel delves into the multifaceted impact of technology on people strategies, offering insights that are both profound and timely. In this era of rapid technological change, every organization must react. However, as leaders, we have a choice—to merely respond or to lead. We choose the latter. True leadership in this digital age means more than just adopting the latest tools; it requires us to harness these innovations thoughtfully, always ensuring that our highest, human-centric values remain our guiding light. As we navigate this tech-driven transformation, our panel explores how to strike the right balance. How can we leverage AI, automation, and digital platforms to enhance efficiency and productivity without losing sight of empathy, creativity, and personal growth? In this discussion, we'll uncover strategies for not just adapting to change, but spearheading it—all while keeping our people, their well-being, and their aspirations at the heart of every decision. Our panelists share real-world examples, best practices, and even cautionary tales. They discuss success stories where technology has enhanced employee satisfaction and productivity. But they also don't shy away from challenges, like the risk of over-relying on algorithms or the potential for technology to depersonalize human interactions. We thank our panel, Manal Keen, George Logothetis, and Jason Barth for THIS dynamic conversation sharing their passion, insight, and practical strategies. We are hopeful you will enjoy and benefit from this conversation as much as we have. Stay tuned for future conversations as we continue our exploration of topics essential to leadership excellence and organizational success. Together, let's forge a path toward better people, better work, and a brighter tomorrow. A Leadership Beyond is led by Change Management Consultant Adrienne Guerrero and Leadership Communication Strategist Tom Rosenak, and exists to support the alignment between business strategy and people strategy - to drive results with people not at the expense of people (Talent Optimization). Subscribe to our podcast to join the Leadership Beyond Community of Conversation and hear insights from thought leaders and human development experts leading the way in the field of Talent Optimization. As always, we’d love to hear from you about your insights, challenges, and successes around leading (self and others) through transitions. To learn more visit https://aleadershipbeyond.com.
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Self-Leadership Panel Discussion
05/21/2024
Self-Leadership Panel Discussion
"We may have all come on different ships, but we're in the same boat now" – Martin Luther King, Jr. We kicked off our new panel discussion format with the most requested of the seven leadership topics: employee well-being. As we transition from Wellbeing to Self-Leadership, it's clear that our leadership topics are not isolated silos but rather a tapestry of interconnected themes. Employee wellbeing, which has been our primary focus, naturally leads us to the topic of self-leadership. When we talk about self-leadership, we are keeping the essence of wellbeing at the forefront of our minds. Self-leadership involves taking responsibility for our own development, health, and mindset, which directly impacts our influence and the overall wellbeing of the company. It’s a personal commitment to cultivating resilience, mindfulness, and a sense of purpose. This episode explores how self-leadership can further our journey towards holistic, sustainable leadership at the individual, team, enterprise, and societal levels. To set the tone and context for our panel discussion, let's begin with a couple of definitions we've consistently used. We define "lead" as going before - envisioning the future, embodying values, modeling behaviors, and engaging others to join us in the adventure. In contrast, "management" comes from the same root as "manus," meaning to handle. Leaders often handle many tasks but, without purpose and direction, can end frenetically busy, yet going nowhere. In our experience, a recurring theme, especially since the pandemic, has been the lack of time to think strategically. Leaders are often caught up in day-to-day reactions, leaving no space for proactive thinking. This highlights the tension between surviving immediate demands and thriving by creating a compelling future. This tension ties directly into our previous focus on wellness. Survival and thriving are in a constant tug of war. Without deliberate space for strategic thinking, we react rather than respond. In this dynamic conversation, our panelists explore various perspectives on this tension and seek strategies for higher self-leadership. The goal is to navigate the demands of the present while steering towards a brighter future. We thank our panel, Marlowe J. Weingart; Kristin Lamar; and Amanda Norris for THIS dynamic conversation sharing their passion, insight, and practical strategies on self-leadership. Visit for contact information. The overarching question framing this conversation: How can we as leaders prioritize self-care while meeting personal and organizational demands? We are hopeful you will enjoy and benefit from this conversation as much as we have. Stay tuned for future conversations as we continue our exploration of topics essential to leadership excellence and organizational success. Together, let's forge a path toward better people, better work, and a brighter tomorrow. A Leadership Beyond is led by Change Management Consultant Adrienne Guerrero and Leadership Communication Strategist Tom Rosenak, and exists to support the alignment between business strategy and people strategy - to drive results with people not at the expense of people (Talent Optimization). Subscribe to our channel to join the Leadership Beyond Community of Conversation and hear insights from thought leaders and human development experts leading the way in the field of Talent Optimization. As always, we’d love to hear from you about your insights, challenges, and successes around leading (self and others) through transitions. To learn more visit https://aleadershipbeyond.com.
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Well Being -Individual, Team, Organization, Societal – Part 2
05/07/2024
Well Being -Individual, Team, Organization, Societal – Part 2
Welcome to another enriching discussion on employee wellbeing, a topic that resonates deeply with leaders striving to cultivate resilience and foster environments where employees not only survive but truly thrive. Our community, A Leadership Beyond, recognizes the pressing need to address this crucial aspect of leadership in today's fast-paced and ever-evolving workplace. Our guests this week were: Amanda Ryznar, Paul LaLonde and Dr. Natacha Nelson (see links in the show notes) Our aim, shared wholeheartedly by our guests, is to transcend mere acknowledgment of the current challenges and embark on a collaborative journey toward meaningful change. Together, we aspire to not only identify obstacles but also to implement strategies that promote better outcomes for both individuals and organizations, ultimately contributing to a brighter, more resilient world. Throughout our conversation, we delved into various key themes, including the importance of recognizing both individual and collective responsibility for wellbeing, the necessity of integrating wellness initiatives into organizational culture, and the crucial role of mental fitness in fostering employee resilience. Moreover, we explored practical strategies, such as implementing employee-centered wellness programs and establishing accessible mental health support systems to address the diverse needs of modern workplaces. We are hopeful you will enjoy and benefit from this conversation as much as we have. Stay tuned for future conversations as we continue our exploration of topics essential to leadership excellence and organizational success. Together, let's forge a path toward better people, better work, and a brighter tomorrow. A Leadership Beyond is led by Change Management Consultant Adrienne Guerrero and Leadership Communication Strategist Tom Rosenak, and exists to support the alignment between business strategy and people strategy - to drive results with people not at the expense of people (Talent Optimization). Subscribe to our podcast to join the Leadership Beyond Community of Conversation and hear insights from thought leaders and human development experts leading the way in the field of Talent Optimization. As always, we’d love to hear from you about your insights, challenges, and successes around leading (self and others) through transitions. To learn more visit https://aleadershipbeyond.com.
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Well Being -Individual, Team, Organization, Societal – Part 1
04/23/2024
Well Being -Individual, Team, Organization, Societal – Part 1
“When the well’s dry, we know the worth of the water.” – Benjamin Franklin We are excited to publish the opening salvo in our series of panel discussions aimed toward addressing the most pressing challenges faced by business leaders today. It makes sense to begin with wellbeing, as this topic received by far the greatest share of votes in our topics of interest survey. More than that, employee wellbeing is essential for all our business strategies to have hope of success. Humanity first is a core principle of this community. Lastly, we don’t have to look far to see the financial, morale and engagement drain from failure to address wellbeing. , professor of organizational leadership at Lewis University. , holistic nurse and currently the track coordinator for the healthcare leadership track at Lewis University. , Chief Operating Officer of Curally. Curally allows for organizations to provide personalized nurse-led healthcare to their employees. This panel of experts is well suited to address wellbeing from the individual, team, enterprise, and societal level. There is often a great disconnect between the business case for wellness and the business case. Leaders must build bridges between the business and people strategies. In this dynamic conversation, we discussed: The importance of raising our consciousness of self-care and how we can create a lifelong sense of nurturing ourselves by finding an intrinsic motivation. Research in resilience that looks beyond survival and asks how we can thrive through crisis. Mindful leadership opens the opportunity to develop broader perspectives on the holistic organization. Again, we see how our internal lens allows for a global lens; care for yourself, care for the world. Understanding the qualities which lead to fulfilment and thriving at work can help leaders to create environments conducive to meaning at work. Health care costs are out of control, pressuring HR to “do something about it”. Expecting HR to have the expertise to solve this crisis directly or alone is unrealistic. Innovative partnerships such as Curally offer the path forward that makes business sense and human sense. Curally created a relationship-based system that will bring personalized care to employees with a focus on prevention. Alignment of compassionate leadership to wellness and growth can be fostered to scale wellbeing. An employer is not capable, nor would it be appropriate to have the type of discussions a nurse care practitioner can. Through Curally’s model, the employer can effectively do this with confidentiality. We are hopeful! Our guests demonstrate the great possibilities that leaders have for leveraging the current wellbeing crisis to transform themselves and their organizations toward better health, better work, and a better world. To quote Dr. Page from a previous interview, “Leaders, this is your moment”. We CAN do it, but not alone! is committed to being a conduit for the resources and connections needed for this vision to be realized. Many experts expressed interest in being part of this discussion – so we’ll continue this topic with additional guests. Please reach out to us if you’d like your voice in the conversation. We will be publishing topical reels as well as being open to articles, posts and 1:1 interview. “See you next time!” A Leadership Beyond is led by Change Management Consultant Adrienne Guerrero and Leadership Communication Strategist Tom Rosenak, and exists to support the alignment between business strategy and people strategy - to drive results with people not at the expense of people (Talent Optimization). Subscribe to our podcast to join the Leadership Beyond Community of Conversation and hear insights from thought leaders and human development experts leading the way in the field of Talent Optimization. As always, we’d love to hear from you about your insights, challenges, and successes around leading (self and others) through transitions. To learn more visit https://aleadershipbeyond.com.
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Employee Wellbeing - What Can We Do About It?
03/26/2024
Employee Wellbeing - What Can We Do About It?
To me, good health is more than just exercise and diet. It’s really a point of view and a mental attitude you have about yourself” {and your organization} ~Albert Schweitzer “Good health IS good business” – Paul Drechsler (CEO, Wates Group Limited) When planning our next conversational series, we asked the community to weigh in on the topic they were most interested in. Wellbeing weighed in (pun intended) as top priority for our community. As we prepare for an upcoming expert panel discussion, we decided to kick it off with a few thoughts from the co-founders, Adrienne & Tom. Time and compressed calendars did not permit us to come together live, so we answered separately and combined the responses on this week’s podcast. Here is the set of questions Tom chose, and a few highlights of his response: 1. How can we foster a sense of belonging and connection among our employees, especially in remote and hybrid work environments? Tom emphasized the importance of recognizing individual differences in fostering connection among employees. He highlighted the need for meaningful conversations, both in-person and digitally, to promote a sense of belonging. Tom advocated for creating choices for mindfulness and self-care, acknowledging that well-being initiatives should cater to diverse preferences. 2. How can we foster a culture of open communication and support where employees feel comfortable discussing their well-being concerns? Tom stressed the significance of addressing concerns such as workload and job security through open communication and supportive systems. He emphasized the role of managers in providing training and resources to support their teams, advocating for informal channels and personalized approaches. 3. How can we create choices that promote mindfulness, resilience, and self-caring among our employees? Tom discussed the importance of integrating digital and in-person experiences to promote mindfulness and resilience. He highlighted the value of workplace flexibility in accommodating personal and family needs, emphasizing the need for tailored strategies and supportive workplace cultures. Here is the set of questions Adrienne chose, and a few highlights of her response: 1. Are there specific challenges or stressors impacting employee well-being that we, as employers and business leaders, need to address? Adrienne delved into challenges such as workload and job security, emphasizing the importance of open communication and support systems. She highlighted the significance of recognizing individual differences and providing resources to address diverse needs. 2. What kind of training and resources can we provide managers to better support their team members with well-being and recognizing signs of burnout and distress? Adrienne discussed the role of managers in providing training and resources to support their teams, advocating for informal channels and personalized approaches. She emphasized the importance of understanding employees' needs and aligning expectations with outcomes to enhance workplace flexibility effectively. 3. Are there opportunities to enhance workplace flexibility, such as scheduling, to better support employees' personal and family needs? Adrienne encouraged organizations to align expectations with outcomes and foster a sense of purpose to enhance flexibility effectively. She emphasized the value of accommodating personal and family needs, advocating for tailored strategies and supportive workplace cultures. The conversation led by Adrienne and Tom underscored the dynamic and multifaceted nature of promoting employee well-being. They emphasized the importance of tailored strategies, open communication, and supportive workplace cultures in fostering a healthy and productive work environment. We hope you enjoy the podcast and are inspired to join the conversation. Your voice makes a difference. Stay tuned for more insights on how to build resilience and cultivate A Leadership Beyond by promoting health and wellness throughout your organization. A Leadership Beyond is led by Change Management Consultant Adrienne Guerrero and Leadership Communication Strategist Tom Rosenak, and exists to support the alignment between business strategy and people strategy - to drive results with people not at the expense of people (Talent Optimization). Subscribe to our podcast to join the Leadership Beyond Community of Conversation and hear insights from thought leaders and human development experts leading the way in the field of Talent Optimization. As always, we’d love to hear from you about your insights, challenges, and successes around leading (self and others) through transitions. To learn more visit https://aleadershipbeyond.com.
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Define the Win and Execute - A Conversation with Traci Austin
02/27/2024
Define the Win and Execute - A Conversation with Traci Austin
Define the win, align to people strategy, and execute! Simple and easy are not synonymous. It is easy to understand that aligning individual goals to the business goals of the organization is a win-win for both. And it might seem a simple activity to clearly define the win at every level and for every worker in the organization. Simple, yes, and equally hard to implement and sustain. There is no magic wand. Why is this so challenging? Well, because we are human, of course. We may have one vision through our organizational lenses, yet every individual, small group, and business unit is unique. This is why A Leadership Beyond is a big fan of leveraging people data to align differing behaviors, drives, and needs at the individual, team, and enterprise level. Common language and common vision lead to aligned strategy of business and people—and that equals better results. We were thrilled to have Traci Ausin as our guest. Traci is an experienced HR leader with a blueprint for executing Talent Optimization and cascading the benefits throughout the organization. raci helps the various functions see the big picture and align; and the big picture thinkers see the impact of aligning better with the functions. Organizational health and effectiveness depend on intentional leadership alignment. Everyone must speak the same language and see the same picture. This does not make it easy, but it does make true alignment possible as well as scalable. In this episode you can expect to glean insights on: Misalignment on goals: Traci highlights the challenge of not knowing what "winning" looks like at different levels of the organization, from the executive leadership team to individual teams. This lack of clarity can lead to inefficiencies and frustration among employees. Importance of communication: Traci emphasizes the need for effective cross-functional communication to ensure everyone understands organizational goals and how their work contributes to achieving them. This includes aligning HR strategies with overall business objectives. Leadership and culture: Traci discusses the significance of leadership in fostering a culture that supports organizational goals. She provides examples of how leaders can inspire and engage employees by tying their work to the company's mission and values. Performance management: Traci outlines a comprehensive performance management approach that aligns individual goals with team and organizational objectives. This includes using a common language, such as core values, to drive behavior and reinforce desired outcomes. Balancing policies and people-first approach: Traci addresses the challenge of balancing HR policies and benefits plans with a people-first approach. She suggests addressing employees' needs and concerns while still holding them accountable for meeting performance expectations. Enabling employees: Traci advocates for understanding employees' needs and providing them with the support and resources to succeed. This includes coaching employees to articulate their requests effectively and aligning their priorities with organizational goals. Overall, Traci emphasizes the importance of aligning people strategies with business objectives, fostering a culture of accountability and communication, and empowering employees to contribute to organizational success. Thank you once again for your engagement and continued support. We look forward to hearing from you and continuing this journey of learning, growth and building leadership resilience together. A Leadership Beyond is led by Change Management Consultant Adrienne Guerrero and Leadership Communication Strategist Tom Rosenak, and exists to support the alignment between business strategy and people strategy - to drive results with people not at the expense of people (Talent Optimization). Subscribe to our podcast to join the Leadership Beyond Community of Conversation and hear insights from thought leaders and human development experts leading the way in the field of Talent Optimization. As always, we’d love to hear from you. Connect with us at https://aleadershipbeyond.com.
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Listening Tour Conversation – Current Top HR Topics for Business Leaders
02/20/2024
Listening Tour Conversation – Current Top HR Topics for Business Leaders
In our latest episode we discuss our recent solicitation to this community for the top-of-mind topics related to their human resources for business leaders today. We appreciate everyone who took the time to participate in the poll. Your input is invaluable as we strive to tailor our content to address the most pressing challenges and interests of our community. The Results: Based on the poll results, it seems like “Employee Wellbeing/Engagement” is a significant concern for our community members, with 53% of respondents indicating this topic. However, we also received interest in other areas such as self-leadership strategy and effective work/hybrid reality. Here is the current breakdown: Self/leadership Strategy: 16% HR as Strategic Allies: 11% Employee Wellbeing/Engagement: 53% Effective Work/Hybrid Reality: 21% Don’t stop now! Even though the poll has concluded, we invite you to share your perspectives on these topics or any other leadership-related subjects that are important to you. Your insights, perspective and experiences are what make our community vibrant and enriching. What’s next? We are taking this insight to create a schedule of events and publications. As we’ve mentioned earlier, we’re looking to create more small group conversations to accompany our usual interview-style episodes with experts. Join us! Please feel free to connect with us at https://aleadershipbeyond.com if you’d like to be part of our individual or small group conversations. Thank you once again for your engagement and continued support. We look forward to hearing from you and continuing this journey of learning, growth and building leadership resilience together. A Leadership Beyond is led by Change Management Consultant Adrienne Guerrero and Leadership Communication Strategist Tom Rosenak, and exists to support the alignment between business strategy and people strategy - to drive results with people not at the expense of people (Talent Optimization). Subscribe to our podcast to join the Leadership Beyond Community of Conversation and hear insights from thought leaders and human development experts leading the way in the field of Talent Optimization. As always, we’d love to hear from you
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C-Sweet Is Becoming the “Sweet Spot” for Female Executives
01/16/2024
C-Sweet Is Becoming the “Sweet Spot” for Female Executives
This week we interviewed Dianne Gubin and Beth Hilbing of C-Sweet, the premier global community of female executives. The genesis of C-Sweet serves as an inspiring tale for entrepreneurs. Dianne Gubin, actively engaged in running and participating in various networking groups, sought a new community that crossed industries and business boundaries. Faced with the challenge of not finding precisely what she was looking for, she embraced the entrepreneurial spirit: if it doesn't exist, create it. Collaborating with her trusted friend, Beth Hilbing, marked the beginning of C-Sweet, and the rest is history. From its humble origins in a small conference room in Century City, C-Sweet has blossomed, now spanning seven cities with a membership of several hundred and a distribution list exceeding 25,000. Beth Hilbing shares a story that resonates with many women executives—a tale of being deeply immersed in her work during her corporate ascent, inadvertently letting her network fade. However, faced with a career transition, she recognized the importance of a vibrant network. In reconnecting and rebuilding her network, Beth did land her new position at Boeing. Joining forces with Dianne in C-Sweet ensures that other women never have to start over from scratch. Beth's experience serves as a reminder for executive women at any stage of their career journey. C-Sweet offers a lifeline, allowing women to stay connected to a dynamic network where they can have fun, learn, grow, provide support and be supported. The message is clear: with C-Sweet, executive women can foster meaningful connections and navigate their professional journeys with resilience and support. This conversation covers a lot of ground for business leaders including: Discussion about what makes C-Sweet’s programming unique and powerful, including: The challenge for leaders today, holding a special space for the challenges facing female leaders. Acknowledgement that too often there are still very few females in the executive room and how we can support those doing it and make progress to change the statistics. Tips for engaging (or not engaging) with toxic personalities. Creating a culture where ego driven toxicity is the exception rather than the rule. The importance of shared values and vision is their key to success as Co-CEOs (not something that can be sustained very often). Their tips: Stay focused on the shared value. For them, the member experience is what matters most. How can they serve their members drives everything they do? Keep sight of the vision. When individual differences pop up, they resolve them quickly through honest conversation. Hold a sacred space for gratitude and appreciation for your partners, including their differences. Maintain a lighthearted attitude about differences. They share about golf - something that Dianne enjoys and Beth prefers to participate if she can “drive the cart and drink the beer.” We're thrilled to share this inspiring conversation with you, and we can't wait for you to join us on this journey with C-Sweet. Your questions and comments are always welcome. A Leadership Beyond is led by Change Management Consultant Adrienne Guerrero and Leadership Communication Strategist Tom Rosenak, and exists to support the alignment between business strategy and people strategy - to drive results with people not at the expense of people (Talent Optimization). Subscribe to our podcast to join the Leadership Beyond Community of Conversation and hear insights from thought leaders and human development experts leading the way in the field of Talent Optimization. As always, we’d love to hear from you about your insights, challenges, and successes around leading (self and others) through transitions. To learn more visit https://aleadershipbeyond.com.
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Resilience From the Well of Purpose - A Conversation With Jill Valdez
12/19/2023
Resilience From the Well of Purpose - A Conversation With Jill Valdez
For this week’s conversation, you are invited to embark on a captivating journey with Jill Valdez as she shares her remarkable transition from full-time ministry to the world of senior care, complemented by a pursuit of an MBA to bridge the gap between non-profit and for-profit management. Today, her unwavering focus lies in serving executives within senior care facilities, recognizing the pivotal role of a people-centric strategy in sustaining such vital institutions. In our conversation, Jill's profound insights highlight the essential connection between a winning business strategy and a robust people strategy, emphasizing that removing the latter negates the very essence of "care" in senior care facilities. Her story unfolds with openness and vulnerability, showcasing resilience drawn from a deep well of purpose. The following quote is her response to the emotional experience of loss of a job: "I can step away from this and move on to this. And it doesn't change my identity. It simply changes how I'm living it out, and, and what that looks like on a day-to-day basis. And I think that the core of resilience is being able to say, no matter what, it doesn't change who I am. Because my purpose hasn't changed, and who I am hasn't changed." Jill's wisdom shines through as she shares practical tips: Navigate setbacks by taking a step back, reflecting on your identity, and asking, "What's next?" Embrace continuous anticipation of what lies ahead in our rapidly changing landscape. Grant executives the space to lead with compassion, acknowledging the inseparable link between personal and professional lives. Prioritize organizational health beyond mere efficiency, emphasizing pillars like Communication, Cohesion, Clarity, and Consistency. Cultivate a mindset of curiosity, fostering healthy conflict resolution and embracing individual, team, and organizational needs. Don't miss the full interview with Jill, a testament to the power of purpose, resilience, and the intrinsic connection between business success and human-centric strategies. Stay tuned for more enriching episodes from the Leadership Beyond community, where we champion the integration of humanity into every aspect of our business endeavors. A Leadership Beyond is led by Change Management Consultant Adrienne Guerrero and Leadership Communication Strategist Tom Rosenak, and exists to support the alignment between business strategy and people strategy - to drive results with people not at the expense of people (Talent Optimization). Subscribe to our podcast to join the Leadership Beyond Community of Conversation and hear insights from thought leaders and human development experts leading the way in the field of Talent Optimization. As always, we’d love to hear from you about your insights, challenges, and successes around leading (self and others) through transitions. To learn more visit https://aleadershipbeyond.com.
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Enlightened Leadership With Matt Poepsel – Leading Outside in and Inside Out
12/05/2023
Enlightened Leadership With Matt Poepsel – Leading Outside in and Inside Out
“For me, the wheels came off during the pandemic…” Who else can relate to that? I know those of us at A Leadership Beyond sure can. It’s what led us to create this community… but you already know that story. That is the initial prompt that led our friend and colleague Matt Poepsel on a journey that culminated into his recently released book Expand the Circle: Enlightened Leadership for Our New World of Work. In this week’s episode we interview Matt and discuss his new book. Matt’s Buddhism practice inspired a look-back to ancient philosophical leadership alongside a deep study of business methodologies to build his enlightened approach to leadership, where we abandon the ego to consider the broader world and humanity in the way we lead ourselves, our people, our organizations, and ultimately the world. An enlightened leader, as Matt describes it, is one who has gone beyond outdated leadership attitudes and beliefs – in other words, focusing only on the financial bottom line. This won’t cut it anymore – people are demanding their work serve a higher, more important, purpose. Enlightened leaders want and see the need for something bigger than ourselves. We’re starting to see evidence in business that this evolution has begun and enlightened leaders are on the path to shift this thinking in a big way. In his book, Matt provides a framework that can be visualized with circles. The premise: while it’s essential that we begin focusing beyond ourselves and our organizations, we must begin within ourselves. The difference from traditional leadership is that with enlightened leadership, we are leading ourselves for the purpose of serving others and beyond others, serving the world (and even universe?) at large. Listen to this episode for a more detailed review with Matt and practical advice to begin your own journey to enlightened leadership. We’re so grateful to Matt for spending time talking with us and sharing himself with our community. We’re sure you’ll be inspired and want more – lucky us, Matt has given so much more for us to delve into! A Leadership Beyond is led by Change Management Consultant Adrienne Guerrero and Leadership Communication Strategist Tom Rosenak, and exists to support the alignment between business strategy and people strategy - to drive results with people not at the expense of people (Talent Optimization). Subscribe to our podcast to join the Leadership Beyond Community of Conversation and hear insights from thought leaders and human development experts leading the way in the field of Talent Optimization. As always, we’d love to hear from you about your insights, challenges, and successes around leading (self and others) through transitions. To learn more visit https://aleadershipbeyond.com.
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Consciousness Rising Above VUCA - A Conversation with Marika Messager
11/07/2023
Consciousness Rising Above VUCA - A Conversation with Marika Messager
We are hearing the clarion call for a new model of leadership in this age of unprecedented change. In our latest conversation Marika Messager shares her early experience as a young woman, working in the toxic, fast-paced, male dominated financial services industry. Her first experiences of questioning the root causes of toxicity were about her personal survival in a difficult world. Through her experiences, she came to understand that we needed a new paradigm of leadership based on different values of co-creation of understanding of inclusion, acceptance, compassion and collaboration. Marika is one of the pioneers of Conscious Leadership, which is now becoming more and more a topic of discussion. Ten years ago, before it was generally understood, Marika began really unpacking what it means to be a conscious leader and how do we create conscious leaders one at a time? In this riveting conversation, Marika brought forth a thought-provoking dialogue that underscored the importance of considering the topics discussed and the value of active listening. Her insights and perspectives hold significant value for both the individual leader’s development, the organization, and society, making this interview a valuable source of individual inspiration, reflection, and conversation with those you touch. A few highlights: - Marika's compelling perspective on environmental conservation stressed the urgency of adopting sustainable practices and individual responsibility, emphasizing the broader impact on the planet and future generations. - Her personal journey, marked by milestones and challenges, offered a powerful testament to the transformative power of resilience and determination. - Marika's current projects and initiatives, aimed at making a positive societal impact, served as a call to action for those looking to effect positive change in their communities. - Her discussion on the evolving landscape of technology and its societal implications sparked a deeper consideration of the choices and consequences that accompany technological advancements. - The interview's optimistic conclusion, where Marika expressed hope for a brighter and more sustainable future, underscored the collective power of informed decisions and active engagement, highlighting the interview's overall value in inspiring meaningful change. To learn more about Marika Messager and her work visit To connect with Marika on LinkedIn at . A Leadership Beyond is led by Change Management Consultant Adrienne Guerrero and Leadership Communication Strategist Tom Rosenak, and exists to support the alignment between business strategy and people strategy - to drive results with people not at the expense of people (Talent Optimization). Subscribe to our podcast to join the Leadership Beyond Community of Conversation and hear insights from thought leaders and human development experts leading the way in the field of Talent Optimization. As always, we’d love to hear from you about your insights, challenges, and successes around leading (self and others) through transitions. To learn more visit
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The Power of Networking and Curiosity - A Conversation with Diane Kubal
10/10/2023
The Power of Networking and Curiosity - A Conversation with Diane Kubal
"I have no special talents. I am only passionately curious." -Albert Einstein Albert Einstein's quote above might lead one to believe that he possessed only a modicum of talent. However, history tells us a different story, as he was undoubtedly a genius in his own right. Nevertheless, the extent of our inherent talent is something we cannot control. What we can control, though, is how we harness and manifest our talents in our professional endeavors. As certified Predictive Index partners, our hosts Adrienne and Tom underscore the paramount significance of valuing every individual's unique talent while recognizing our shared humanity. They are experts in the realm of talent optimization, and their expertise empowers us all to unlock our full potential and collaborate more effectively by leveraging our distinct strengths. Adrienne and Tom's insights illuminate the path toward personal and collective growth, reminding us that even without possessing Einstein's level of talent, we can still excel and thrive in our respective domains. In this episode, we dive into the remarkable journey of Diane Kubal, the founder of Fulcrum Network and a longtime friend of our community. Early in her career, Diane's frustration with sales led her to an extraordinary revelation about her innate talents. She possessed a natural gift for networking and an insatiable curiosity about people's endeavors. Diane harnessed these talents to secure a job and eventually built a thriving business rooted in her passion for learning, development, and connecting people. Fulcrum Network, the brainchild of Diane's vision, assembles diverse talents to solve complex business challenges. But Diane's journey does not stop there. She continues to reinvent her business, guided by the same unwavering passion and strength. Her profound curiosity about people and their struggles, coupled with her keen listening skills, unveiled a new opportunity. Today, Fulcrum Network is at the forefront of supporting consultants, trainers, and coaches in adapting their wealth of knowledge and experience to the digital landscape of modern learners. Through gamification, social communities, written feedback, and more, Diane's team empowers professionals to create engaging blended learning experiences that connect with their audiences to learning in new ways. They are helping business leaders rethink their employee learning strategies as well as enabling consultants to revolutionize their delivery models. Diane's journey exemplifies how a profound love for people and the ability to connect can lead to unexpected and extraordinary pathways. Join us as we explore her inspiring story and the fascinating world of talent, curiosity, and passion. To learn more about Fulcrum Network’s services, check out the links below to Diane’s current programs: To connect with Diane, reach out to her at [email protected] or connect with her on LinkedIn at . A Leadership Beyond is led by Change Management Consultant Adrienne Guerrero and Leadership Communication Strategist Tom Rosenak, and exists to support the alignment between business strategy and people strategy - to drive results with people not at the expense of people (Talent Optimization). Subscribe to our podcast to join the Leadership Beyond Community of Conversation and hear insights from thought leaders and human development experts leading the way in the field of Talent Optimization. As always, we’d love to hear from you about your insights, challenges, and successes around leading (self and others) through transitions. To learn more visit
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The Themes Are Coming In – Our Research Hypothesis is Proving True!
09/26/2023
The Themes Are Coming In – Our Research Hypothesis is Proving True!
This week's episode aims to connect with the A Leadership Beyond community shortly after launching our Leadership Resilience Research Project. We're excited about the insightful responses we've received on our Leadership Resilience Research from early participants. It’s a lot to ask, we get it! And we are confident it’s worth it! We acknowledge that some of our trusted community members have committed to the self-evaluation but haven't had the 20 minutes needed for thorough self-reflection. We get it! Asking for 20 minutes is a lot. This situation underscores one of the fundamental principles guiding our initiative: Advancing leadership to the next level requires creating room for reflection in a landscape filled with competing priorities and constant demands. Simply put, we aren’t committed to filling our own cups first and making time for our development. We hope the insights shared in this episode will encourage you to participate, both to gain self-awareness and add your insights to our research so we can fine-tune the events, interviews, and support that we plan in the future. To learn more about how you can benefit and participate in the research, visit the research page on our website at https://aleadershipbeyond.com/a-leadership-beyond-research-initiative/. We will keep you updated as the results flow in and as always welcome any questions or comments from you. A Leadership Beyond is led by Change Management Consultant Adrienne Guerrero and Leadership Communication Strategist Tom Rosenak, and exists to support the alignment between business strategy and people strategy - to drive results with people not at the expense of people (Talent Optimization). Subscribe to our podcast to join the Leadership Beyond Community of Conversation and hear insights from thought leaders and human development experts leading the way in the field of Talent Optimization. As always, we’d love to hear from you about your insights, challenges, and successes around leading (self and others) through transitions. To learn more visit https://aleadershipbeyond.com.
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Visit the WINNERs Circle with Coach Sherry Winn
09/12/2023
Visit the WINNERs Circle with Coach Sherry Winn
In this inspiring conversation with Sherry Winn, a remarkable two-time Olympian, National Basketball Coach of the Year, and three-time bestselling author on Amazon, we delve into the profound lessons she has learned on her leadership journey. Sherry's life began in a challenging environment, filled with dysfunction and bullying, but she refused to let adversity define her. She persevered, not only becoming an Olympian but also a world-renowned coach, author, and motivational speaker. Sherry's story is a testament to the power of inner resilience. She urges us to consider how we respond to adversity, what we can learn from it, and who we can become through persistence. Leadership resilience, she emphasizes, is primarily an inner game. During our conversation, Sherry shares valuable insights on resilience. Join us in the Winner's Circle with Coach Sherry Winn as she dedicates her life and work to teaching, guiding, and empowering others. For more inspiration and information, visit Sherry's website . Discover how to overcome setbacks, thrive in the face of adversity, and become a resilient leader by tuning in to this compelling conversation with Sherry Winn. A Leadership Beyond exists to support the alignment between the business strategy and people strategy - to drive results with people not at the expense of people (Talent Optimization). Subscribe to our channel to join the Leadership Beyond Community of Conversation and hear insights from thought leaders and human development experts leading the way in the field of Talent Optimization. You can find us at . As always, we’d love to hear from you about your insights, challenges, and successes around leading (self and others) through transitions.
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Retooling and Refueling - Holistic Leadership with Bryan Sykes
08/29/2023
Retooling and Refueling - Holistic Leadership with Bryan Sykes
Building a leadership beyond is a holistic process. It requires nurturing our own growth while also fostering the growth of those we work with. We recognize and honor both our uniqueness and our shared humanity. Joining us in this episode is Bryan Sykes, a healthcare professional, neurobiologist, and martial artist working at the 4-way intersection of people, science, technology, and business to support human thriving. Bryan shares his journey of exploring performance enhancement and how the realm of athletics emerges as an illuminating beacon. It is within this arena that the principles of performance management truly come to life, offering invaluable insights that can be applied to our VUCA corporate reality. Bryan's upcoming book, "Retooling and Refueling," is a work poised to offer a wealth of wisdom. As we eagerly await its release, Bryan shares some practical gems designed for high-performing individuals in the business arena. A Leadership Beyond exists to support the alignment between the business strategy and people strategy - to drive results with people not at the expense of people (Talent Optimization). Subscribe to our podcast to join the Leadership Beyond Community of Conversation and hear insights from thought leaders and human development experts leading the way in the field of Talent Optimization. As always, we’d love to hear from you about your insights, challenges, and successes around leading (self and others) through transitions.
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Essential Qualities of Exceptional Leaders - from Elementary Education to Corporate Boards - A Conversation with Dr. Tim Arnold
08/01/2023
Essential Qualities of Exceptional Leaders - from Elementary Education to Corporate Boards - A Conversation with Dr. Tim Arnold
Assessing the true quality of a leader can often be challenging. However, during a crisis, their true capabilities surface. The co-founders of this community emphasize the value of “bringing your whole self to work, engaging your head, heart, and briefcase.” Without a doubt this week’s guest, Dr. Tim Arnold earned his position as Superintendent of Will County District 92 through his intelligence and impeccable credentials. Adrienne Guerrero, a parent with two grade school daughters in the district, often praised Tim's exceptional communication skills and reassuring demeanor, especially during times of unprecedented challenges faced by the school system. We were thrilled when Dr. Arnold agreed to engage in a conversation, granting us a glimpse behind the curtain to discover some of the key leadership principles that shape his philosophy. We are confident you will find the same benefits from listening to this interview as we did while conducting it. To see Dr. Tim Arnold’s leadership in action, visit the Will County District 92 website at . Connect with Tim directly on . A Leadership Beyond exists to support the alignment between the business strategy and people strategy - to drive results with people not at the expense of people (Talent Optimization). Subscribe to our podcast to join the Leadership Beyond Community of Conversation and hear insights from thought leaders and human development experts leading the way in the field of Talent Optimization. As always, we’d love to hear from you about your insights, challenges, and successes around leading (self and others) through transitions.
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An Invite to A Leadership Beyond's Research Project
06/20/2023
An Invite to A Leadership Beyond's Research Project
“Everybody is experiencing the same thing only differently.” -Adrienne Guerrero, Co-Founder A Leadership Beyond Our community of conversation has had the privilege to engage in dynamic conversation with remarkable thought leaders, even during one of the most challenging business environments in history. We hope you find these conversations as enjoyable to listen to as we find them rewarding to facilitate. Through our interactions, we have noticed patterns and gained valuable insights into the barriers that often hinder the execution of our best personal and professional transformational ideas. It would be redundant to list all the challenges faced by leaders from various directions. We recognize that the runway is turbulent, messy, and filled with competing intentions, leaving leaders with limited bandwidth for thoughtful action. We have stories to share, and we believe you do too. Our goal is to keep the conversation flowing! However, we acknowledge that our observations have been largely anecdotal, and we feel that YOUR experiences may be missing from the mix. Leadership Resilience Research – Building leadership resilience in a VUCA reality (volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous) You’re Invited! Before we can build sustainable strategies, it is essential to understand the current situation, the desired situation, and the perceived gap between them. We are seeking data from your experience. (Held confidential unless you give explicit permission otherwise.) Our target audience: This research is targeted at individuals who are responsible for others, ranging from team leads with one direct report to C-level executives accountable for the people within their entire enterprise. What does it take to participate? We are requesting 20-30 minutes of your focused time and thought to complete a survey. The questions we present require reflection on your personal experiences, professional wishes, and feelings. Yes, the activity is more than a few mindless questions that you can fill out quickly between meetings. But, wait…we think it’s worth it to you as much as it is to us! What’s in it for you? We are aware of that sinking feeling, OH, NO, not another survey! We believe that the time you spend participating in this survey will return immediate valuable insight into areas that require greater attention or a shift in focus (at least, that’s what we heard from our pilot participants). And, more than that, here are the details: You will receive a detailed personal report, along with a short video that will help you interpret your results effectively. You will be invited to optional live community conversations where we will delve into our findings and extract common themes about leaders’ challenges. Once we conclude the data-gathering phase of this project, we will publish the findings in comprehensive reports, articles, and interviews. We will provide follow-up summaries, webinars, and other activities and events that we believe will be beneficial based on the results. This will provide multiple opportunities to bring your specific expertise into the conversation. The primary conversation we have is with ourselves. We don’t speak for you, but confess that our own inner conversations are often noisy and conflicted. We imagine that you might be feeling the same. Taking time to zoom out and think strategically adds value and clarity. It’s a solo activity that often requires a group effort to feel motivated to make the commitment. We hope to bring that to you with this research participation. We are confident that your participation will benefit you in your quest to become the best leader you can be. We are hopeful you will make space to participate and have YOUR voice in the leadership mix. Ready to join us? Click to sign up to participate. We will be sending instructions in early July when we officially launch. If you have any questions before signing up, please contact us at . A Leadership Beyond exists to support the alignment between the business strategy and people strategy - to drive results with people not at the expense of people (Talent Optimization). Subscribe to our podcast to join the Leadership Beyond Community of Conversation and hear insights from thought leaders and human development experts leading the way in the field of Talent Optimization. As always, we’d love to hear from you about your insights, challenges, and successes around leading (self and others) through transitions.
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Communicating Through Change - A Conversation with Ben Baker
05/23/2023
Communicating Through Change - A Conversation with Ben Baker
“The single biggest problem in communication is the illusion that it has taken place.” -George Bernard Shaw Our community of conversation seeks guests with unique style and perspective, who also share our core values – people first, effective communication as the key to leading transformational change, and that change is not an event or project but rather an ongoing leadership responsibility. To quote Aristotle, “all communication must lead to change.” This week we enjoyed the energy and insight of Ben Baker, who after years of applying his communication skills in high-tech sales and direct mail, ultimately turned his attention to supporting companies with their internal communications. Of course, we learn of this transition through story, as Ben discovered his Ikigai was not only storytelling but enabling and empowering others to tell their story. Tune in to this engaging conversation with Ben. We are hopeful you will find this conversation as meaningful as we did. A Leadership Beyond exists to support the alignment between the business strategy and people strategy - to drive results with people not at the expense of people (Talent Optimization). Subscribe to our podcast to join the Leadership Beyond Community of Conversation and hear insights from thought leaders and human development experts leading the way in the field of Talent Optimization. As always, we’d love to hear from you about your insights, challenges, and successes around leading (self and others) through transitions.
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Highest Self is Whole Self at Work - A Conversation with Kristin Lamar
04/25/2023
Highest Self is Whole Self at Work - A Conversation with Kristin Lamar
“Whether in business or our personal lives, clarity comes from having a clear sense of the self. When we are aligned with our inner wisdom all things are possible.” -Kristin Lamar We hear the clarion call to “bring our whole selves to work.” Despite this, the fear of competing agendas and possible friction from diverse religious affiliations, can create an environment where people are hesitant to bring their spirituality to work. We are body, mind, and spirit; the whole person is not present if we deny the soul in our work. What’s a leader to do about this challenge? In this riveting 30-minute conversation, Kristin Lamar offers us tips on how to become more conscious as leaders and to muster the courage to better align mindsets – professional, mental, and soulful. The attempt to separate body, heart, mind and soul leads to dissolution and loss of power, insight, authenticity, creativity, resourcefulness, and creativity. Kristin shows up in a way that builds instant trust as she encourages us to trust our inner wisdom and highest self – everywhere, including at work. Conscious alignment is our superpower! Listen to this episode to hear the gems gleaned from our conversation with Kristin. A Leadership Beyond exists to support the alignment between the business strategy and people strategy - to drive results with people not at the expense of people (Talent Optimization). Subscribe to our podcast to join the Leadership Beyond Community of Conversation and hear insights from thought leaders and human development experts leading the way in the field of Talent Optimization. As always, we’d love to hear from you about your insights, challenges, and successes around leading (self and others) through transitions.
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You Are What You Risk - A Conversation With Michele Wucker
03/28/2023
You Are What You Risk - A Conversation With Michele Wucker
Awareness is the starting point of most of our leadership discussions within this community of conversation. Once aware, we need a framework to guide our thinking and do authentic discovery. This week’s guest Michele Wucker, deepens our awareness of the peril we face if we ignore risk, as well as the opportunity for success, happiness and fulfilment presented by learning to navigate risks more effectively. Her newest book examines evaluating risk from the highly personal reflection, to cultural and global implications. You Are What You Risk builds on, and in many ways mirrors, Michele’s masterpiece The Gray Rhino, How to Recognize and Act on the Obvious Dangers We Ignore. We are confident you will benefit from this thought-provoking and inspirational conversation. Michele has a gift in her ability to bring academic depth to life through the power of story. A Leadership Beyond exists to support the alignment between the business strategy and people strategy - to drive results with people not at the expense of people (Talent Optimization). Subscribe to our podcast to join the A Leadership Beyond Community of Conversation and hear insights from thought leaders and human development experts leading the way in the field of Talent Optimization. As always, we’d love to hear from you about your insights, challenges, and successes around leading (self and others) through transitions.
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Finding our Ikigai - A Conversation with Milan Batinich
03/14/2023
Finding our Ikigai - A Conversation with Milan Batinich
With a background in staffing, our guest this week, Milan Batinich developed a passion for helping companies and individuals find the right talent and the right work. He started with a company that utilized Predictive Index (PI) for their hiring. At first, he was not a believer, but came to see how powerful a behavioral assessment is in leveraging behaviors and drives to support creating alignment between the individual, the culture of the organization, and the work to be done. From the foundation of staffing contact centers, Milan has become a certified PI trainer and is certified through Stanford University on human behaviors and how to coach people for high performance. Recently, Milan has launched a motivational speaking business helping leadership teams learn about finding their Ikigai (Japanese concept that combines the terms iki, meaning “alive” or “life,” and gai, meaning “benefit” or “worth”). Among the key points emerging from our conversation: You can’t manage what you can’t measure. For example, Milan sites a company he worked for with 60 employees experiencing a 90% turnover. Using people data, this company lowered their annual attrition rate from 90% down to 14.9%. Knowing what the job entails and the requirements of the work both cognitively and behaviorally makes it possible to do a better job of matching people to work. Finding the right fit works as well for existing employees as it does for recruiting. Milan shares an example of two internal employees mismatched and the solution turned out to be switching roles. We tend to throw work at people and people at work. Predictive Index used with the Talent Optimization framework helps us be more intentional. Coaching becomes more effective when we understand ourselves, the person we are communicating with, and the shared goals we are striving toward. Without this awareness we tend to coach based on our own style. The default of most companies for motivation is extrinsic. We establish rewards and benefits but ignore the intrinsic motivation. Predictive Index helps uncover internal motivations. Listen as Milan shares his insights and experience of using Predictive Index to optimize talent. A Leadership Beyond exists to support the alignment between the business strategy and people strategy - to drive results with people not at the expense of people (Talent Optimization). Subscribe to our podcast to join the Leadership Beyond Community of Conversation and hear insights from thought leaders and human development experts leading the way in the field of Talent Optimization. As always, we’d love to hear from you about your insights, challenges, and successes around leading (self and others) through transitions.
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