Becoming Unshakable
Becoming Unshakeable is the podcast for leaders, creators, and changemakers who know that true leadership starts from within. Hosted by bestselling author and keynote speaker Heather R. Younger, JD, each episode explores what it takes to lead with resilience, compassion, and purpose—without pretending to be perfect. Through candid conversations with executives, frontline leaders, coaches, and everyday heroes, Heather uncovers the real stories behind growth, setbacks, and transformation. From navigating change to creating emotionally safe cultures, Becoming Unshakeable reveals how self-leadership and caring leadership can shape people—and workplaces—that cannot be shaken. Whether you're leading a team, a company, or simply leading yourself, this podcast will help you stay grounded, lead boldly, and thrive in every chapter of your journey.
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Deciding How to Pivot When Life Hits
11/18/2025
Deciding How to Pivot When Life Hits
Have you ever wondered how some people keep standing even when life seems determined to knock them flat? That question lingered with me as I spoke with Dave Munson, the founder and CEO of Saddleback Leather Co., whose journey is marked by sharp turns, risk-taking, loss, grit, faith, and a remarkable ability to get back up again. This conversation reminded me that the path to becoming unshakable is rarely smooth. It is formed through moments that challenge our identity, stretch our resolve, and reveal what we truly rely on when everything around us feels uncertain. Dave brought stories that moved from the deserts of Mexico to the busy floors of his factory, from being a young volunteer teacher dreaming up a rugged bag to building a global brand rooted in people-first values. He talks openly about the setbacks that shaped him, including financial loss, near closures, a cartel theft of an entire truckload of products, and the intense pressure of keeping a business alive during COVID when travel bags suddenly fell to the very bottom of consumer demand. What struck me was his response each time. He chose gratitude, service, and faith as his grounding tools. He decided to stand up quicker with each hit instead of staying down. The heart of this episode unfolds as Dave shares how compassion has shaped his leadership. From standing beside employees during personal crises to hiring people who are often overlooked in society, he paints a picture of leadership that meets people where they are and walks with them. He also speaks candidly about his own process of unlearning, particularly the need to relinquish self-reliance and trust others to grow alongside him. His story is full of uncomfortable growth, unexpected blessings, and a willingness to pivot when the world shifts beneath his feet. It made me reflect on what anchors each of us and how we choose to rise. As you listen, consider your own sense of grounding. What helps you get back up when life hits you in ways you never saw coming? And if something Dave shared resonates with you, I would love to know your thoughts. What part of this conversation helps you reflect on your own journey toward becoming unshakable?
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How Our Pasts Can Propel Us Into Our Futures
11/11/2025
How Our Pasts Can Propel Us Into Our Futures
In this solo episode of Becoming Unshakable, I invite you to join me for a quiet reflection on how our past experiences can shape and strengthen who we are becoming. I talk about my love for fall, the sound of leaves crunching underfoot, and how those simple moments remind me of the beauty of change. Each fallen leaf tells a story of what was, and each season reminds us that growth often begins with letting go. I share why I no longer believe in leaving the past behind. Our pasts are full of lessons, proof of our resilience, and reminders of how much we have already overcome. When I look back on my own life, I see the obstacles that once felt impossible but now serve as evidence of what I’m capable of. Those memories keep me grounded and confident when new challenges arise. This episode is all about using what came before to propel us toward what’s next. It’s about finding power in reflection, gratitude in growth, and peace in knowing that everything we’ve lived through has prepared us for what lies ahead. I hope this short conversation helps you see your own past in a new light and gives you the courage to keep moving forward with strength and purpose.
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Asking for Help Is Strength, Not Failure
11/04/2025
Asking for Help Is Strength, Not Failure
In this episode of Becoming Unshakable, I had the privilege of welcoming two inspiring guests, Mary Beth Sandin and Kristina Fusella. It was my first time hosting two people at once, and the conversation felt like sitting down with old friends who have walked similar roads of challenge, growth, and self-discovery. Together, we explored what it means to stay grounded when life feels uncertain and why asking for help is not a sign of weakness, but rather an act of genuine strength. Kristina shared how her Taekwondo practice has shaped her understanding of balance, both physically and emotionally. Her reflections reminded me that being unshakeable is not about staying perfectly still, but about finding stability while in motion. Mary Beth brought a different kind of insight, showing how self-awareness, preparation, and allyship can create calm even in moments of chaos. Hearing both of them speak so openly about fear, confidence, and connection felt deeply human. What stayed with me most was our discussion about grace, vulnerability, and the quiet courage it takes to ask for support. We discussed the unrealistic expectations women often place on themselves, the importance of having allies, and how small moments of encouragement can have a profound impact. If you are someone trying to hold it all together, this conversation will remind you that strength often begins the moment you decide to reach out.
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When Compassion Meets Combat: A Paratrooper’s Take on Leading People Through Tough Times
10/28/2025
When Compassion Meets Combat: A Paratrooper’s Take on Leading People Through Tough Times
When you’ve led people through war zones, you learn what unshakable leadership really means. In this episode of Becoming Unshakable, I sit down with retired Army officer, author, and speaker Clay Novak to explore what happens when compassion meets combat. With five tours of duty across Iraq and Afghanistan, Clay has lived the reality of leading under pressure, where calm, clarity, and connection can mean the difference between chaos and survival. Clay shares how he trained his soldiers to stay grounded when every instinct told them to panic, and how that same mindset applies to leadership in everyday life. From progressive training and mental discipline to emotional recovery after loss, he reveals the human side of service, the part that depends on empathy, humility, and self-awareness. We also dive into the balance between toughness and tenderness, and how leaders can be both unyielding and kind. Clay talks about moments of vulnerability that built trust within his teams and how those same lessons guide his life and writing today. His reflections show that emotional courage is just as vital as physical endurance, and that compassion is often what holds everything together when the pressure is highest. Together, we explore how real leaders build resilience, why asking for help is a sign of strength, and how compassion becomes a force multiplier in any environment, from the battlefield to the boardroom. Clay’s honesty and wisdom reminded me that courage isn’t about having no fear, but about standing firm in integrity when everything around you feels uncertain.
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Self-leadership Isn’t Selfish It’s Intelligent
10/21/2025
Self-leadership Isn’t Selfish It’s Intelligent
In this episode of Becoming Unshakable, Heather reflects on a moment that reminded her what true leadership looks like from the inside out. Fresh from speaking to 13,000 nurses at the Atlanta World Congress Center, she shares how an experience that looked glamorous on the surface, with makeup, stage lights, and a long line of people waiting for hugs, became a powerful reminder that self-leadership is not selfish. It is essential. Heather unpacks what it means to prepare so thoroughly that you can show up fully. For her, deep preparation is an act of care, allowing presence to replace pressure and connection to replace performance. As she recounts her time with the nurses, she explores the toll that constant caregiving takes and how compassion fatigue quietly chips away at strength. Her message to them, and to all of us, is clear: when you care for yourself as intentionally as you care for others, you become the calm in the storm, the unshakable center that others can rely on. Through raw honesty, Heather shares her own turning point, the realization that the success she had built came at the cost of the people she valued most. That moment of clarity became the foundation of her teaching: align your life with your true values, lean on your team, ask for help, and give yourself permission to rest. Strong self-leadership is grounded in awareness, humility, and care. This episode invites you to look inward, to question the beliefs that keep you on autopilot, and to remember that balance is not weakness, it is wisdom. When you prepare with intention, lead with presence, and live in alignment with what matters most, you do not just survive the chaos. You become unshakable within it.
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One Step That Changes Everything in Hard Times
10/14/2025
One Step That Changes Everything in Hard Times
Jodi O. Brown has lived the kind of story most of us hope we never face. What began as a picture-perfect life shifted overnight when she learned the symptoms she had been ignoring were signs of a brain tumor wrapped around her brainstem. One surgery became three. Five days in hospital became thirty-five in neurocritical care. The journey would grow to twenty-six surgeries, with complications that could have shattered anyone’s sense of self. Instead, Jodi found a different path. She learned to take life one minute at a time, to find meaning inside the mess, and to choose the next small step when the finish line felt impossible to see. In this conversation on Becoming Unshakeable, Jodi introduces the concept of anti-fragility, illustrating its application to human life as well as to systems and economies. Resilience helps us bounce back. Anti-fragility enables us to grow stronger in the face of stressors, setbacks, and uncertainty. Jodi explains how she closed the door on one life and opened another with new rules, new rhythms, and a daily practice of grace with deadlines. Feel the pain, name it, and then set a time to stand up again, even if the first step is tiny. Sometimes, it feels like committing to attending a class where you cut paper shapes, because having someone to be accountable to can pull you through when your willpower runs dry. We also step into a new season unfolding in real time. Jodi became an empty nester yesterday. The quiet is startling. She walks us through the emotions of a house that suddenly sounds different and the choice to reimagine marriage, travel, and daily rituals with hope. Her definition of becoming unshakeable fits the heart of this show. Adversity is not an interruption to your story. It is your story. The practices you bring to ordinary days prepare you for the extraordinary ones. Faith underpins her steadiness. Hope keeps her moving. She shares lessons from a childhood shaped by leadership teachings and a father who modeled genuine care, the kind you feel when a leader knows your name and your story. Every interaction is an opportunity to change a life. That line threads through everything here. It is the reason people follow, the reason cultures feel safe, and the reason care will never go out of style. If you are barely holding on, Jodi’s message is simple and actionable. Permit yourself to mourn what you lost. Set a clear deadline to rise. Make one small commitment to another human and keep it. One step can change the direction of a hard season. One light can change the way a room feels. Jodi chooses to be that light, and she invites you to do the same. Stay to the end for a generous gift. Jodi offers a complimentary e-copy of her memoir, “The Sun Still Shines,” for listeners who email her. It is an honest account of pain and purpose, and a reminder that even in the hardest chapters, the light is still there, waiting to be seen.
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Leading with Humility: The Discipline of Self-Leadership
10/07/2025
Leading with Humility: The Discipline of Self-Leadership
In this episode of Becoming Unshakeable, I sit down with Jim Matuga, Founder of InnerAction Media, to explore a side of leadership that often goes unspoken: followership. Jim brings a refreshing perspective that challenges the assumption that leadership is the only role worth aspiring to. Instead, he makes a compelling case for the power of humility, steadfastness, and the influence that comes from being an excellent follower. For him, excellence and mediocrity cannot coexist, and creating a culture that values both leaders and followers is essential for building organizations that thrive. Jim shares stories from his own career, including the moment he realized that having a title doesn't mean you are equipped to lead. Being thrust into leadership without preparation forced him to confront his own shortcomings and inspired him to dedicate decades to studying, practicing, and teaching leadership grounded in service. He discusses the weekly culture conversations he holds with his team, drawing on lessons from John Maxwell and his own experiences, to ensure that values don't just hang on the wall but are lived out in everyday practice. One of the most potent parts of our conversation is Jim's story of intentionally removing the lid on his business. He set a goal to build a company that would not rely on him by 2030, which meant facing uncomfortable truths, opening the books, and developing successors. That level of transparency and trust not only changed the company's culture but also allowed his team to thrive in new ways. Jim also shares his "10 percent rule," the idea that under challenging conversations, the most essential truth often goes unspoken. Learning to voice that final 10 percent, he believes, is where leaders find real breakthroughs. As we close, Jim reflects on how he stays grounded in times of chaos. For him, faith, discipline, and a holistic focus on health, relationships, and purpose keep him steady when circumstances are uncertain. His message to anyone who feels like they are barely holding it together is to act with intentionality. Reconnect with your purpose, take one step forward, and trust that progress will come from movement. This conversation is a powerful reminder that becoming unshakeable is not about perfection or position; it's about embracing resilience. It is about humility, resilience, and the daily practice of choosing excellence and equipping others to rise alongside you.
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426: Becoming Your Own Compass When the Path Isn’t Clear
09/30/2025
426: Becoming Your Own Compass When the Path Isn’t Clear
In today’s episode of Becoming Unshakeable, I’m doing something a little different. This is one of my solo shows where I answer questions that listeners have sent directly to me. It’s my way of making sure your voice is part of this conversation, because even though I cannot see you when you listen, I want to stay connected to what matters most to you. In this episode, I respond to three powerful questions. We explore how to continue showing care when upper management pressures or restrictions get in the way, how to balance compassion with clear expectations and accountability, and what to do when your calendar is so full of other people’s needs that you feel like you are losing yourself in the process. These are real-life situations, and they all connect back to what it means to be grounded in who we are and how we present ourselves. Becoming unshakeable is not about never being rattled. It is about staying calm and centered when the world feels off its rocker. It is about making intentional choices to lead with clarity, care, and accountability. As you listen in, I invite you to reflect on your own sphere of influence, your daily practices for grounding, and the ways you might bring both compassion and strength into your leadership.
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Turning Fear into Fuel: The Power of Courageous Choices
09/23/2025
Turning Fear into Fuel: The Power of Courageous Choices
Welcome to this episode of Becoming Unshakeable! If you’ve been a follower and fan of Leadership with Heart, you’re in exactly the right place. From here on out, Becoming Unshakeable will be the new name of my show—and I can’t wait to bring you invaluable insights on what it means to lead with clarity, compassion and courage. Ed Rahill’s story begins with a grandmother’s steady voice and a childhood that could have gone either way. He learned early that fear can freeze your future, and that believing in something bigger than ego keeps you moving when life tilts. In this conversation, we trace his path from broken-home beginnings to the relay anchor leg that changed everything, where a single decision to run for dignity and team turned self pity into grit. That moment became a template for how he leads himself and others. We follow Ed into boardrooms and high-stakes turnarounds, where respect and clarity, open doors that force will never crack. He explains the quiet moves that earn trust, how to disagree with grace, and why every person wants to feel seen and essential. His “mile relay” philosophy becomes a leadership framework. Receive the baton of wisdom, run your leg with courage, then pass it on stronger. Caring leadership shows up not in slogans, but in the way you help people take ownership of the win. Then there is the race. A coast-to-coast endurance run, arrests, breakdowns, and a moment on the shoulder of the highway where he almost quit. Ed describes turning the ignition with a new rule for life. One mile at a time. That mindset set a record and reset his compass. Preparation mattered. Faith mattered. Choosing courage over fear mattered most. If you are becoming unshakeable right now, Ed’s lesson lands simply. Go back to your first principles, remember who taught you to stand tall, and act from values instead of ego. Write down your story from the start and look for the pattern of growth. Lead yourself first, speak with respect, and move one mile at a time.
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Overcoming Barriers, Leading with Purpose: Susan Frew’s Story
09/16/2025
Overcoming Barriers, Leading with Purpose: Susan Frew’s Story
Welcome to this episode of Becoming Unshakeable! If you’ve been a follower and fan of Leadership with Heart, you’re in exactly the right place. From here on out, Becoming Unshakeable will be the new name of my show—and I can’t wait to bring you invaluable insights on what it means to lead with clarity, compassion and courage. In this conversation, I sat down with my friend and powerhouse leader, Susan Frew. Susan’s path runs from corporate leadership at AT&T Wireless across the Caribbean to small business ownership, reinvention, and now her work as a top AI speaker. She embodies what Becoming Unshakeable is all about. We talk about the moments that tested her, the choices that reshaped her, and the practices that keep her steady when life speeds up. Susan shares how being a young international VP in Grenada and St. Vincent taught her to build from scratch, lead across cultures, and become her own IT department. She opens up about the seasons that didn't fit, what she unlearned about “being everything to everyone,” and why finding work you truly love changes your energy, confidence, and results. We get honest about ADHD as a superpower, the discipline of protecting your circle from gossip, and the surprising role sleep hypnosis and mindset work have played in her growth. If you are barely holding it together, this one will meet you right where you are. You will hear practical self-leadership tools, a fresh take on career reinvention, and a grounded vision for using AI to serve people with integrity and kindness. Listen in for fuel, clarity, and a reminder that you can move forward, even on the hard days.
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What It Means to be Unshakeable
09/09/2025
What It Means to be Unshakeable
In this episode, I open up about what it truly means to become unshakeable. Not perfect. Not untouchable. But rooted in a steady strength that grounds you and steadies the people around you. I share why this evolution from Leadership with Heart to Becoming Unshakeable is not just about the world’s needs, but also about my own. Like many of you, I needed more clarity, more calm, more centeredness. Letting go of perfection and embracing purpose has given me freedom from anxiety, fear of judgment, and the impossible pressure to prove myself. Together, we will explore the difference between resilience and unshakeable strength, the power of self-leadership, and the importance of aligning daily actions with your deepest values. I will also share personal reflections, from raising four children (and why being called 'Super Mama' makes me cringe) to learning to love my own voice and curly hair. These moments demonstrate that unshakeable leadership stems from embracing authenticity, not striving for perfection. You will leave this episode with practical steps to build your own unshakeable core, including a simple values alignment practice to try this week. When you are clear on your purpose, confident in your values, and flexible in your approach, you not only withstand change but also thrive in it. You create calm in the midst of it.
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Wake-Up Calls and Brave Choices
09/02/2025
Wake-Up Calls and Brave Choices
Welcome to one of the first guest episodes of Becoming Unshakeable! If you’ve been a follower and fan of Leadership with Heart, you’re in exactly the right place. From here on out, Becoming Unshakeable will be the new name of my show—and I can’t wait to bring you invaluable insights on what it means to lead with clarity, compassion and courage. What does it really take to live bravely and lead with your whole self? In this heartfelt conversation, I sat down with my dear friend Kimberly Davis, Founder of Brave Leadership and author of Brave Leadership: Unleash Your Most Confident, Authentic, and Powerful Self to Get the Results You Need. Kimberly opens up about the wake-up calls that changed her life, from personal loss during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic to making the bold decision to sell her home in Texas and move her family to Costa Rica. She shares how bravery is not about being fearless, but about making clear choices, standing in your values, and permitting yourself to live fully. Together, we explore what it means to become unshakeable when life throws curveballs. We discuss leaning into self-leadership, making powerful decisions even when they are intimidating, and discovering practices that keep you grounded when your world feels uncertain. Kimberly’s story is a reminder that courage is contagious. When we choose to show up authentically, we permit others to do the same. If you have ever wondered how to step into your own brave choices, whether at work, in life, or in leadership, this episode will inspire you to stop waiting for permission and start living the life you want now.
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Show Up and Participate: The Mindset of an Unshakeable Leader
08/26/2025
Show Up and Participate: The Mindset of an Unshakeable Leader
Welcome to the second episode of Becoming Unshakeable! If you’ve been a follower and fan of Leadership with Heart, you’re in exactly the right place. From here on out, Becoming Unshakeable will be the new name of my show—and I can’t wait to bring you invaluable insights on what it means to lead with clarity, compassion, and courage. When I began planning the very first guest episode of Becoming Unshakeable, I thought carefully about who could help bridge the journey from Leadership with Heart to this new season of resilience and self-leadership. The choice came quickly. My longtime friend and inspiring leader, Rich Gassen, was the perfect person to join me. Rich has spent more than a decade as a supervisor at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, and he has always impressed me with his steady commitment to growth, learning, and values-based leadership. His personal mantra, “show up and participate,” has guided him through every challenge, from a serious health scare to leading a major team relocation. What struck me most in our conversation was how Rich has never stopped being a learner. He constantly seeks out new knowledge, applies it to his work, and shares it generously with his team and colleagues. During our conversation, Rich opened up about what being unshakeable means to him. For him, it is about leaning on his values, staying grounded in creativity and curiosity, and never losing sight of the whole person he is leading. He reflected on how compassion and transparency shaped the way he guided his team through difficult times, and how active listening allowed him to support others in moments when life outside of work was weighing heavily. His approach to leadership is deeply human, rooted in the belief that progress matters more than perfection. Rich also spoke about what he had to unlearn on his leadership journey. Moving from a technical role into a supervisory position meant realizing that he didn't need to have all the answers. Instead, he learned to listen more, ask better questions, and empower his team to find solutions themselves. That shift not only helped him grow but created more resilient, capable people around him. What I love most about Rich’s story is how authentic it is. He does not pretend to be perfect. Instead, he focuses on showing up every day, aligning with his values, and creating the conditions for others to thrive. That mindset is at the heart of what it means to be unshakeable.
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Grounded & Growing
08/19/2025
Grounded & Growing
Welcome to the very first episode of Becoming Unshakeable! If you’ve been a follower and fan of Leadership with Heart, you’re in exactly the right place. From here on out, Becoming Unshakeable will be the new name of my show, and I can’t wait to bring you invaluable insights on what it means to lead with clarity, compassion, and courage. In this opening episode, I share the personal wake-up call that shifted everything for me. From battling perfectionism and self-doubt to redefining success through self-leadership, I take you inside the transformation that inspired the rebrand. We will explore why inner strength is not a luxury but a necessity, especially when the world feels unstable. You will hear why this show is not just for managers or executives, but for anyone who wants to stand firm in uncertainty, lead themselves before leading others, and build a life and career grounded in clarity and courage. Some episodes will be solo reflections, others will feature leaders, creators, and thinkers who have found their unshakeable core. This journey is about building resilience from the inside out. When your core is strong, the world can shake, and you will still stand.
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419: Stepping into My True North
08/12/2025
419: Stepping into My True North
After six amazing years, this is the final episode of the Leadership with Heart podcast. If you've been with me since the beginning, thank you. Truly. This journey has been one of the most meaningful parts of my career and my life. When I started this podcast in 2018, I felt the world needed more conversations about compassion in leadership. I believed that caring and connection were missing from too many workplaces, and I wanted to help change that. What followed was more than I could have imagined. This show led to best-selling books, powerful stories, and countless conversations with leaders who inspired me to keep going. But like all of us, I’ve grown. I’ve evolved as a speaker, as a parent, as a consultant, and as a human being. And with that growth has come a realization: it's time for something new. So, while this is the end of Leadership with Heart, it's also the beginning of something that feels even more aligned with where I am now. My new podcast is Becoming Unshakeable. Let me tell you why. I still believe deeply in caring leadership. That will never change. But I also believe we need to make space for the strength that comes from knowing who we are, standing firm in our values, and staying grounded when the world around us gets messy. Being unshakeable doesn’t mean we’re never shaken. It means we keep showing up. We get back up. We lead with care and clarity, even when it's hard. This next chapter will explore the full spectrum of what it means to lead and live with courage, resilience, and compassion. I’ll still be speaking with leaders, but not just those with titles or teams. I’ll be inviting people who have lived through adversity, rebuilt themselves, and learned how to stay rooted no matter what life throws at them.
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418: Championing You-ness: Cultivating a Culture of Contribution
08/05/2025
418: Championing You-ness: Cultivating a Culture of Contribution
In this episode of the Leadership with Heart podcast, I sit down with Lorii Rabinowitz, the CEO of Denver Scholarship Foundation, for a heartfelt and eye-opening conversation about what it means to lead with empathy, clarity, and purpose. Lorii was referred to me by someone I deeply respect, and it quickly became clear why. Her approach to leadership is both profoundly human and boldly practical. We explore the power of honoring each individual's "you-ness," a term Lorii uses to describe the unique combination of lived experience, professional expertise, and personal story that each person brings to a team. From her early days in media sales to her current role leading a 90-person organization, Lorii shares her zigzag journey and how every step along the way has informed her people-first philosophy. The Denver Scholarship Foundation serves thousands of students every year through a powerful combination of access programs, wraparound success supports, and promise-based scholarships. But what makes Lorii's leadership stand out is her belief that every team member, whether in program delivery, administration, or fundraising, is an integral part of that mission. She talks about what it takes to scale a culture of shared purpose as the organization grows and how to create alignment without losing authenticity. Lorii opens up about a personal leadership moment that changed everything for her. In the middle of a hectic workday, she almost overlooked a colleague's quiet request for help. That moment shifted how she shows up for people and how she listens. She also shares how her team navigated the return to in-person work after the pandemic and what they learned when their communication didn't land the way they intended. Rather than retreating, Lorii and her team chose to listen, adapt, and co-create a stronger culture. We talk about the tension between honoring individuality and maintaining equity, the importance of knowing whose voices are missing from the table, and the value of learning out loud. Lorii reminds us that leadership is not a title but an activity, and that every person, regardless of role, has the power to lead from where they stand. Whether you're in a nonprofit, corporate, education, or any team-based environment, this episode offers a powerful blueprint for leading with both heart and clarity. Lorii's wisdom is generous, grounded, and filled with insight that will stick with you long after the conversation ends.
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417: The Human in Human Resources: Kurtis Strauel's 30-Year Journey
07/29/2025
417: The Human in Human Resources: Kurtis Strauel's 30-Year Journey
On this week’s episode of the Leadership with Heart podcast, I sit down with Kurtis Strauel, Senior Director of Human Resources at Mark-Taylor Residential, to discuss the power of leading from the heart in a field that is often misunderstood. With over 30 years of experience in HR and more than two decades in leadership, Kurtis brings a deeply reflective, people-first perspective that cuts through the noise of policy, process, and performance metrics. What struck me most in our conversation was Kurtis’s commitment to showing up for others, even in the most challenging moments. He shares the story of joining an organization and realizing he prioritized execution over connection. Without trust and a relationship, results fall flat. That moment changed how he leads and how he listens. We explore how HR can reclaim its role as a champion for the human experience at work, how leaders can balance business outcomes with empathy, and why creating a culture rooted in dignity and respect is not just suitable for people but essential for performance. Kurtis also opens up about his early childhood challenges, the lessons he learned from his parents, and how those personal experiences helped shape the heart-led leader he is today. His vulnerability is refreshing, and his clarity about what truly matters, such as taking care of people, staying humble, and learning from mistakes, feels like a masterclass in authentic leadership. If you’ve ever felt torn between performance goals and staying grounded in compassion, this conversation will remind you that those two things can coexist. When they do, everyone benefits. Listen in and reflect on your leadership journey. Are you leading from the heart? Are your people seen, heard, and supported? This episode will give you the courage to keep asking those questions and to keep doing the work that truly matters.
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416: Data, Heart & Leadership: A Conversation with Sarah from American Senior Living
07/22/2025
416: Data, Heart & Leadership: A Conversation with Sarah from American Senior Living
What happens when a leader blends deep operational structure with genuine human care? That’s the question at the heart of my latest conversation on the Leadership with Heart podcast, where I’m joined by Sarah Mazzocco, Chief People Officer at Americare Senior Living. We first met when I was invited to speak at Americare’s annual leadership conference. Even before I hit the stage, I could tell Sarah was a different kind of leader. She carried a quiet confidence rooted in clarity, process, and intention. What stood out most was her heart. She wasn’t just focused on logistics or event outcomes; she was also concerned about the overall experience. She was focused on people, how they felt, what they needed, and how the experience could serve them long after the event ended. That same intentionality came through in this conversation. Sarah spoke openly about the tension between designing robust systems and remaining flexible when things do not go as planned. She shared a powerful example from her early days at Walmart, when she was tasked with redesigning cashier training across hundreds of thousands of employees. The project seemed straightforward until feedback from frontline workers completely shifted her team’s perspective. What they thought was high value turned out to be disconnected from the reality of day-to-day work. That insight prompted a redesign, but it also paved the way for deeper trust and improved outcomes. For Sarah, moments like that proved the value of staying curious and staying humble. Throughout the episode, we repeatedly returned to the importance of asking the right questions, not from a place of pretense or ego, but with a blank slate mindset. Sarah talked about how being wrong is not a threat to leadership. It is often the very thing that makes leadership real. By remaining open to new data, perspectives, and feedback, she creates space for her team to feel seen and heard. That sense of psychological safety is what allows innovation and transformation to take root. We also explored the myth that leaders have to choose between being results-driven or people-centered. Sarah pushes back on that narrative. For her, the numbers matter because they help validate whether the work is meaningful. They serve as a reflection of the lived employee experience. If people feel seen, supported, and inspired, the data should reflect that. But she is clear that you cannot just lead with numbers. You must start with a purpose, stay grounded in listening, and use data as a tool to guide rather than dictate the path forward. Sarah’s leadership style is rare in its balance. She brings process and structure, but she also makes room for messiness. She values outcomes, but she centers people. She has the credentials and experience to lead from the top, yet she has never stopped asking questions like a student. This conversation was a reminder that caring leadership is not a sign of weakness. It is strategic. It is data-informed. It is rooted in values and made powerful through action. Sarah is a brilliant example of how leaders can hold both heart and accountability, as well as consistency and curiosity, and bring it all together to create workplaces where people truly thrive.
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415: Made in America: A Mission Beyond the Label
07/15/2025
415: Made in America: A Mission Beyond the Label
Dean Wegner is a former Army Ranger, a West Point graduate, and now the CEO and co-founder of Authentically American, an apparel brand rooted in purpose. But more than that, he’s a husband, a dad of four, and someone who truly understands what it means to lead with heart. We started this episode by connecting over something very personal. As many of you are aware, my son is currently attending the U.S. Naval Academy. That journey has opened my eyes to a whole new level of respect and awareness regarding military service, patriotism, and what it means to serve something greater than oneself. So when a listener suggested Dean as a guest, the timing could not have been better. Dean shared how his leadership journey began long before building a business. It started at home, and it was shaped by the values he learned in the military, including putting others first, leading by example, and building character when no one is watching. He discussed what it means to transition from focusing on personal growth to genuinely supporting and developing the people you lead. We also explored his pivot from a corporate career to entrepreneurship. Like many of us, he faced moments of doubt and unexpected challenges, especially during the early days of the pandemic. But Dean’s story is an excellent reminder that hard work, faith, and staying true to one's mission can carry you through even the most challenging seasons. If you’ve ever questioned whether leading with heart is compatible with ambition and business success, this episode will encourage you. Dean is proof that you can grow a brand, serve a cause, and stay grounded in your values.
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414: Unshakable from Within: Self-Leadership Through Life’s Transitions
07/08/2025
414: Unshakable from Within: Self-Leadership Through Life’s Transitions
In this solo episode, I open up about one of the most emotional experiences of my life after dropping my son off at the United States Naval Academy. It stirred something profound within me, and I felt compelled to share what I learned about self-leadership, emotional resilience, and staying grounded during life’s most significant transitions. I discuss what it means to be truly unshakable, not by avoiding emotions, but by standing firm in our values and leading ourselves through difficult moments with honesty and compassion. This isn’t about perfection. It’s about clarity, progress, and choosing to lead from a place of strength and grace, even when the ground feels unsteady. I also reflect on what it looks like to stop waiting for permission. To be your green light. Watching my son step into his purpose reminded me that we all can lead ourselves with intention. And when we do, we become the kind of leaders others naturally want to follow.
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413: From Data to Grace: A New Era of Self-Leadership
07/01/2025
413: From Data to Grace: A New Era of Self-Leadership
In this episode of Leadership with Heart, I sit down with Laura Chevalier, Chief Growth Officer at Optomi Professional Services, for a conversation that explores the powerful intersection of data, grace, and self-leadership. Laura shares her remarkable journey from teaching and sports to building a thriving IT consulting startup and leading a division focused on uplifting rural communities and military families. We talk candidly about how faith, humility, and a willingness to fail have shaped her path and opened doors she never imagined. We also dig into what it means to live and lead with intention, how to give ourselves grace without losing our edge, and why authentic self-leadership is never a finished product but an evolving practice. Laura’s stories about saying yes to big leaps, trusting her instincts, and finding joy in the messiness of growth remind us that strong leadership always starts within. If you’ve ever wondered how to hold high standards without losing heart, how to balance speed and presence, or how to trust your gut while inviting feedback, this episode is for you. Listen in and reflect on what it means to lead yourself through every season with courage, curiosity, and grace. Connect with Heather WHEN YOU’RE READY, HERE’S HOW WE CAN HELP: Engage your people with work culture consulting: Hire Heather to speak to your group: Access free Art of Caring Leadership resources:
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412: Beyond the Budget: Human Impact in Nonprofit Leadership
06/24/2025
412: Beyond the Budget: Human Impact in Nonprofit Leadership
In this episode, I sit down with Lorna Little, President and CEO of St. Anne’s Family Services in Los Angeles. Lorna leads an organization that touches the lives of thousands of families facing housing insecurity, young mothers seeking stability, and children who need a safe start. Our conversation goes deep into what it means to lead from both lived experience and professional training. Lorna shares how her own journey as a young mother and adoptee fuels her mission to build programs that change lives for the better. She explains why balancing high support with high accountability is not a feel-good slogan but a daily discipline that keeps her team effective and her community served. We talk about the real cost of not supporting families early, why leaders must stand firm in their power even when feedback stings, and how caring leadership still demands measurable results. Lorna also reminds us to protect our own energy, nurture our creative sides, and never forget why we started this work in the first place. If you have ever wondered what true, heart-centered nonprofit leadership looks like behind the budget lines, you will find so much wisdom here. Take a moment to listen, reflect, and share this episode with someone who cares as much as you do.
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411: Caring, Campaigns & Communication: The Dovetail Solutions Story
06/17/2025
411: Caring, Campaigns & Communication: The Dovetail Solutions Story
On this episode of the Leadership with Heart podcast, I’m joined by someone very special to me, Andy Boian, founder of Dovetail Solutions and a longtime friend and collaborator. Andy first joined me on the show back in 2020 and was also featured in my book The Art of Caring Leadership. Since then, a great deal has changed, both for him and his company, and I was thrilled to bring him back to discuss where he stands now as a leader and how his journey has unfolded. We discussed what it means to grow an organization with intention, to lead by listening, and to cultivate a culture where people feel safe enough to share their truth. Andy shared how he continues to live by the philosophy of speaking last, something he mentioned in our first interview that has stuck with me ever since. It’s not just a tactic; it’s a way of honoring the voices around him and building trust from the inside out. Andy also opened up about how his company has evolved over the past five years, how they’ve weathered disruption and grown their reach, and how he’s now thinking about legacy. He shared that he’s entering a season of succession planning, gradually preparing to pass the torch while continuing to serve as a mentor and advisor. His desire to give back, to teach, and to write about what he’s learned was inspiring to hear. We also discussed the role of AI in communication and storytelling as well as the importance of maintaining the human element in our work. As a speechwriter, Andy knows that words matter, but so do context, presence, tone, and lived experience. AI can assist, but it cannot replace the empathy or emotional insight that comes from years of connection. What stood out most in our conversation was Andy’s consistency. He still believes in telling the truth, even when it’s hard. He still creates space for people to think, feel, and lead themselves toward their solutions. And he still leads with care, humility, and a deep understanding that trust is earned every single day. If you’ve ever struggled with how to hold space as a leader, how to grow through grief, or how to lead a team without controlling every detail, this conversation will offer real encouragement. Andy reminds us that leadership is not about being the loudest voice in the room. It’s about knowing when to step back, when to listen, and when to let others rise.
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410: Strong Yet Compassionate: The New Leadership Standard
06/10/2025
410: Strong Yet Compassionate: The New Leadership Standard
In this episode of Leadership with Heart, I sit down with Tracy Nolan, Senior Vice President of MarketPoint at Humana, for a candid and powerful conversation about what it truly means to lead with both strength and compassion. Tracy has spent her career guiding large teams through complex transformations, including overseeing 14,000 employees during the merger of Sprint and T-Mobile at the height of the pandemic. Her ability to remain focused on people, even in the most high-pressure environments, is what sets her apart. This is a conversation about rejecting the myth that caring is soft or ineffective. Tracy shows that empathy and accountability can not only coexist but also fuel one another. She shares stories of leading through layoffs with humanity, building trust through weekly listening sessions, and constantly preparing her teams for the future by investing in their growth and readiness. Tracy discusses openly what it means to create a culture where performance expectations are clear and where people feel supported, heard, and valued. Her approach to leadership is rooted in genuine connection, honest communication, and the belief that strong leadership starts with caring about your people. If you've ever questioned whether it's possible to lead with heart while driving real results, Tracy proves that you don't have to choose. You can do both. And in today’s workplace, doing both may be the only way to lead well.
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409: Flexible Leadership: Navigate Uncertainty and Lead with Confidence
06/03/2025
409: Flexible Leadership: Navigate Uncertainty and Lead with Confidence
In this episode of Leadership with Heart, I sit down with someone I genuinely admire, both professionally and personally. Kevin Eikenberry joins me to discuss his newest book, , and together, we explore what it truly means to lead with flexibility during times of constant change. As someone who believes deeply in the power of self-leadership, this conversation is significant. Kevin and I share the belief that, while much about leadership remains the same, the context in which we lead has shifted significantly. The pace of change, the uncertainty around us, and the complexity of the workplace have all made flexibility not just helpful but necessary. Throughout our discussion, Kevin talks about how leaders often operate on autopilot. We fall back on habits, old models, and assumptions. But authentic leadership today requires a willingness to pause, reflect, and adjust. I shared my own experiences in this regard, mainly how being open to change has enabled me to evolve through various seasons of my life and career. We also discussed identity and how easy it is to define ourselves in rigid ways that limit our growth. Kevin offered a powerful metaphor about trees that helped me rethink what consistency means. It's not about doing things the same way every time. It's about being rooted in your values while adapting to the moment at hand. If you've ever wondered how to stay grounded while evolving or how to remain open without losing your sense of direction, you'll find this conversation valuable. We didn't just talk about the theory. We discussed what flexibility looks like in real-life moments, both at home and at work, as well as within ourselves. This episode is filled with truth, curiosity, and reflection that every leader can benefit from. I hope it challenges and inspires you in the best ways Click the following link, , to listen to Kevin’s podcast and receive a generous free gift.
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408: Soft Landings and Hard Truths in Team Building
05/27/2025
408: Soft Landings and Hard Truths in Team Building
What does it take to lead with heart in one of the most demanding, misunderstood public service sectors? In this episode of the Leadership With Heart Podcast, I spoke with Billie Jo McCarley, Deputy Director of Operations at the Miami-Dade Water and Sewer Department. From the moment I saw her speak on a panel, I was drawn to her clarity, purpose, and grounded approach to leading in a system that rarely gets the spotlight it deserves. Her words were honest, her tone firm, and her leadership style deeply human. Billie Jo shares her journey from a union kid in upstate New York to a Marine Corps officer, and now to her executive role overseeing one of the largest utilities in the country. She brings a refreshingly straightforward style to leadership, one rooted in ownership, structure, and service. What resonated most was how she balances military precision with a deep sense of emotional intelligence and faith. Her mantra is simple: understand people, respect their uniqueness, and make hard decisions without ever stripping someone of their dignity. We explored how she builds high-performing teams by focusing on talent, alignment, clarity, and trust. She described her people as “scrappy builders,” but also reminded us that every person comes with a story, and our job as leaders is to create a space where that story matters. Whether shifting someone to a better-fitting role or navigating tough conversations with fairness and compassion, Billie Jo never loses sight of the mission: to serve the people of Miami-Dade County with integrity and purpose. Her belief that leadership is not about softening expectations but elevating them through care stayed with me. You can be clear, direct, and firm, and still lead with a heart full of compassion. That’s the real balance we’re all trying to strike, especially in times of uncertainty, change, and disruption. So here’s my question: What does leadership with heart look like in your world, and how are you holding space for others while still pushing them to grow? I would love to hear your thoughts. Share your reflections with me, and let’s continue the conversation.
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407: Ron Alvesteffer: From $3M to $350M: The Power of Talent & Grit
05/20/2025
407: Ron Alvesteffer: From $3M to $350M: The Power of Talent & Grit
What does it take to grow a business from 3 million to over 350 million dollars without losing sight of your purpose, people, or principles? In this Leadership With Heart Podcast episode, I reconnect with Ron Alvesteffer, President and CEO of Service Express, who returns with even more perspective, humility, and wisdom than when we first spoke years ago. Ron shares what it means to lead a fast-growing organization in today's business world without focusing only on numbers or scale. At the core of his message is a deep belief that culture starts with people and that sustainable growth is built on the foundation of hiring, empowering, and retaining the right talent. Ron opens up about how his leadership philosophy has evolved since he was first featured in my book The Art of Caring Leadership, and how his commitment to continuous learning, coaching, and intentionality keeps him energized in the face of new challenges. In our conversation, Ron discusses embracing the journey, not just the milestones. He reflects on lessons learned through failure, why running toward problems is often where the most significant breakthroughs happen, and how he continues to sharpen his self-leadership skills even as his role expands. We also explore how to hold people accountable with care, avoid the burnout trap of being "busy," and what it means to be a leader who builds other leaders. Whether you're a CEO, team manager, or someone simply trying to figure out your next move, there's something in this episode for you. Ron's story is a reminder that growth—real, meaningful growth—isn't about shortcuts. It's about showing up, doing the work, staying humble, and staying hungry. What challenges have shaped your leadership the most? And how do you make space to keep growing when the pace doesn't slow? Let me know what resonated with you and share your thoughts after listening.
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406: Relatable Leadership: William’s Journey from High School Dropout to CFO
05/13/2025
406: Relatable Leadership: William’s Journey from High School Dropout to CFO
What does it take to go from the mail room to the C-suite? And how does someone stay grounded in empathy while holding one of the highest positions in a global firm? In this episode of Leadership with Heart, William McKinley Washington II, Global CFO at Baker McKenzie, shares a journey that challenges assumptions about leadership, success, and what it means to rise. His story begins far from corner offices and executive meetings. William is open about being a high school and college dropout, a young father navigating food stamps and homelessness, and someone who never expected to one day lead a global finance team across 46 countries. This conversation is not about titles. It is about growth, ownership, and leadership that begins with a human connection. William speaks candidly about the moment he was told he was not ready for the role he wanted and how he turned that into a turning point. Rather than push back, he leaned in, brought in a coach, embraced the harsh feedback, and reshaped his leadership. The result was not just a promotion. It was a transformation. What stands out most is his commitment to authenticity. When he stepped into the CFO role, his priority was not strategy or performance metrics. It was a connection. At one of his earliest team meetings, a colleague shared a powerful personal story that brought the room to tears. That openness has become the foundation of how he leads. This episode will offer insight and inspiration if you are in the early stages of your career or facing a leadership crossroads. William’s path is a reminder that doors may open unexpectedly, but what matters most is the courage to walk through them and bring others with you. How do you lead when no one is watching? And what would it take for you to show up more fully, not just as a professional, but as a person? Let me know what resonates with you.
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405: Scaling Businesses, Scaling Leaders: Lessons from Brian Brault
05/06/2025
405: Scaling Businesses, Scaling Leaders: Lessons from Brian Brault
What does it mean to lead from the heart, and what happens when we admit we do not have all the answers? In this episode, I speak with Brian Brault, founder of Legacy of Significance and a globally respected leadership teacher and entrepreneur. Brian has built and sold two companies and dedicates his time mentoring leaders worldwide. His work is rooted in humility, curiosity, and a deep belief in helping people discover the leadership potential that already exists within them. Our conversation moves beyond traditional leadership tropes. Brian shares what he learned about vulnerability when everything was on the line, how admitting he did not know the answer led his team to step up, and why that experience shaped how he leads today. He also discusses the difference between being friendly and kind and why effective leadership must be grounded in clarity, accountability, and care. We talk about relational authority, how real influence comes not from a title but from presence and trust, and why creating space for others to contribute is one of the most powerful tools a leader can use. Brian shares how his role as chair of the Entrepreneurs' Organization inspired a broader commitment to using entrepreneurship as a force for good worldwide. So here is my question for you. When was the last time you created space for someone else to lead? And what might happen in your team if you believed the answers were already in the room? Join the conversation and let us know your thoughts.
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404: Mission-Driven Leadership: The Navy's Lessons for Business Success
04/29/2025
404: Mission-Driven Leadership: The Navy's Lessons for Business Success
In this episode, I’m joined by Marc Koehler, a former U.S. Navy submarine officer. His unique perspective, gained from leading in a nuclear submarine where every action has consequences and complacency can be catastrophic, offers some of the clearest thinking on leadership I've heard in a long time. Marc shares how his experiences taught him lessons about accountability, emotional influence, and self-leadership that every leader on land needs to hear. What struck me most is Marc’s belief that leadership isn’t something we wait to be given. We must choose to step into it, regardless of our title or time on the team. He shares practical stories from his time aboard the USS Pogi, from navigating dangerous missions with a crew whose average age was 23, to learning how to lead through presence, not authority. Marc explains how submarine culture requires everyone to be seen as a leader and to see themselves as one. When you’re hundreds of feet below the surface, the person closest to the problem must take charge, whether they’ve been onboard for three years or three days. That belief forms the foundation of his leadership framework, Fast Attack Leadership. We also explore what it means to emotionally regulate under pressure, how leaders can transfer thinking instead of just giving answers, and why connecting every task, no matter how small, to the bigger mission makes all the difference in team performance and culture. If you’ve ever wrestled with how to balance accountability and care, or how to build leadership capacity at every level of your team, this conversation has the potential to reframe your entire approach and inspire a new way of leading. So here’s my question for you: How are you creating a culture where everyone sees themselves as a leader? And what would change in your organisation if they did? Join the conversation and share your thoughts.
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