Leadership With Heart

Would you like to uncover how Leaders with Heart lead their teams and engage and retain them in the process? Join Heather R. Younger, J.D., the best-selling author of The 7 Intuitive Laws of Employee Loyalty, The Art of Caring Leadership, and The Art of Active Listening. Heather is the Founder and CEO of Customer Fanatix. Join her as she interviews amazing leaders from all over the world and all walks of life to find out what drives them to be more emotionally intelligent leaders with winning organizational cultures. You’ll uncover how to improve: Employee engagement Perceptions of management Employee motivation Employee satisfaction Organizational leadership Caring leadership Sales outcomes Company profitability Customer experience Listening and understanding in your organization And more!

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. /episode/index/show/leadershipwithheart/id/36488895

405: Scaling Businesses, Scaling Leaders: Lessons from Brian Brault 05/06/2025

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. /episode/index/show/leadershipwithheart/id/36308670

403: From Diamonds to Diapers: How a 3M Chief Scientist Mastered Her Leadership Purpose 04/22/2025

402: From Sales to CEO: Leadership Wisdom with Shawn Hanks 04/15/2025

401: Scaling Leadership: AI, Coaching, and the Future of Development 04/08/2025

400: More Than Profits: How Employee Ownership Drives Social Impact 04/01/2025

400: More Than Profits: How Employee Ownership Drives Social Impact What happens when the CFO leads a company’s social responsibility efforts? And what if that initiative not only improves company culture but strengthens the bottom line? In this episode of the Leadership With Heart podcast, we hear from Sandra Torre, Co-President and CFO at Lavidge, a full-service advertising agency based in Phoenix, Arizona. Sandra challenges conventional expectations of the CFO role by spearheading a company-wide volunteer program called “Impact Giving and Caring with Passion.” This refreshing conversation highlights how financial and human-centered leadership can coexist and thrive in the same space. Sandra shares how Lavidge transitioned to employee ownership and inspired a cultural shift toward shared purpose and contribution. Recognizing a growing desire among team members to make a difference beyond the workplace, Sandra created a structured volunteering initiative that grants employees 16 paid hours annually to support community causes all during the workweek. What started as a modest internal effort became a cornerstone of Lavidge’s identity, fostering collaboration, deepening engagement, and attracting new talent aligned with its values. But the most compelling part? When COVID hit and most agencies faced furloughs and pay cuts, Lavidge made a bold decision: no layoffs, no cuts, and no pulling back from the impact program. The result? It was one of their strongest financial years ever. Sandra’s story is a timely reminder that soft skills are anything but secondary. As she puts it, they are a force that can actually “make the bottom line even stronger.” Her grounded leadership style proves that doing good and doing well are not mutually exclusive — and that purpose can be a powerful business strategy. How might this kind of leadership model apply in your own organization? And are we doing enough to reframe who gets to lead purpose-driven change in business? We’d love to hear your thoughts. What stood out to you in Sandra’s story? https://heatheryounger.com/lavidge /episode/index/show/leadershipwithheart/id/35911990

399: Beyond Administration: The Strategic Shift in HR 03/25/2025

398: Overcoming Barriers, Leading with Purpose: Susan Valverde’s Story 03/18/2025

398: Overcoming Barriers, Leading with Purpose: Susan Valverde’s Story What does it mean to lead with both heart and results? How do strong leaders build teams that thrive while ensuring business success? In this episode of Leadership With Heart, I have the pleasure of speaking with Susan Valverde, Brand President of Sylvan Learning, whose leadership journey is nothing short of inspiring. From starting as a franchisee to leading a national organization, Susan's path is a testament to perseverance, adaptability, and people-centered Leadership. Throughout our conversation, Susan shares how her deep belief in her team's potential has shaped her leadership approach. She reflects on how growing up in an immigrant family, learning English alongside her loved ones, and working through challenges instilled in her the importance of collaboration and resilience. That foundation has fueled her leadership philosophy—one rooted in trust, open communication, and the belief that a strong team is the key to sustained success. One of the most compelling moments in our discussion is when Susan recalls not showing up as the leader she aspired to be. She shares a vulnerable story of losing a key team member unexpectedly and realizing, in hindsight, that she had missed critical signs about that person's aspirations. Rather than dwelling on the disappointment, she took it as a lesson to engage more deeply, to ask better questions, and to ensure that every team member has a space to share their goals. This moment of self-reflection has driven her to foster an environment where leaders support business growth and nurture personal and professional development. Susan also emphasizes that leadership isn't about having all the answers but asking the right questions. She highlights the importance of agility in an ever-changing world, especially as Sylvan Learning continues to evolve in the education space. Under her leadership, the company embraces new technologies, enhances learning experiences, and expands opportunities for students across diverse communities. At the heart of it all is a commitment to ensuring that all children, regardless of background, have access to quality education. This conversation is a powerful reminder that leadership is an ongoing journey. It's about balancing results with care, making tough decisions while remaining deeply connected to people, and constantly evolving to meet new challenges. As Susan shares her insights, she reminds us that great leaders create space for others to grow, that resilience and adaptability are non-negotiable, and that success is not just about personal achievement. It's about lifting others along the way. What are the leadership lessons that have shaped you the most? How do you create an environment where people feel empowered to grow? Let's continue the conversation. /episode/index/show/leadershipwithheart/id/35699875

397: Striking the Balance between Soft and Hard in Leadership 03/11/2025

396: Success vs. Significance: Finding Meaning in Leadership 03/04/2025

395: Winning Workplaces: A Generational View on Team Culture 02/25/2025

395: Winning Workplaces: A Generational View on Team Culture Have you ever wondered what truly empowers someone to speak up, especially when their voice challenges the norm? In this engaging episode, we explore the transformative power of using your voice with Ashley Rivera. She’s a go-getter Gen Z entrepreneur who shares her journey of self-leadership and confidence in the workplace. Ashley’s story began when she joined the team straight out of college, bringing with her a refreshing willingness to question ideas and offer counter-opinions—something not often seen from someone so early in their career. Together, we explore the dynamic between a leader and a team member who isn’t afraid to challenge perspectives. Ashley shares how feeling safe and supported empowered her to speak up, and how this openness led to a deeper, more collaborative relationship. Her perspective offers insights into generational differences in the workplace and what it means to build trust and respect in remote environments. Throughout the conversation, we discuss the critical role leaders play in creating spaces where team members feel confident voicing their opinions. Ashley shares actionable advice for those who want to speak up but struggle with confidence, offering simple, practical steps like preparing notes and practicing with trusted peers. This episode isn’t just about leadership; it’s about self-awareness, resilience, and building meaningful connections. It’s a testament to how embracing different voices leads to stronger, more cohesive teams. From discussing the importance of aligning values when hiring to navigating challenging conversations with care, we touch on what it means to be a leader who balances accountability with compassion. If you’ve ever felt hesitant to share your ideas or wondered how to foster a team culture where everyone’s voice matters, this episode is for you. What are the moments that shaped your confidence to speak up? Have you experienced a workplace where your voice made a difference? Join the conversation and share your thoughts. Ready to step into your power? today. Let’s make this the moment we stop waiting—and start leading. WHEN YOU’RE READY, HERE’S HOW WE CAN HELP: Masterclass and More: Engage your people with work culture consulting: Hire Heather to speak to your group: Access free Active Listening On-Demand Webinar: Access free Art of Caring Leadership resources: Book a consultation or general contact: ---------------------------------------------------- For more Leadership Motivational videos, click here to subscribe to my channel: Let's connect on social! ---------------------------------------------------- About Heather R Younger, J.D., CSP Heather R Younger is a highly sought-after speaker, 2x-TEDx speaker, diversity, equity and inclusion strategist, and contributor to leading news outlets. She is also the Founder and CEO of Employee Fanatix, a leading employee engagement and consulting firm. After over 25,000 employee engagement surveys and years of working with organizations to transform employee engagement, here’s what Heather has seen over and over: When you know how to listen, employees will tell you exactly what they need to bring their full selves to work. Book Heather to speak at your event or organization. Visit or for more details. /episode/index/show/leadershipwithheart/id/35387990

394: Inclusion: The Key to Helping Everyone Feel Seen at Work 02/18/2025

394: Inclusion: The Key to Helping Everyone Feel Seen at Work How do you navigate your leadership journey while staying true to yourself? And what happens when you decide to stop waiting for permission and take control of your path? In this Leadership with Heart podcast episode, Heather sits down with Erika Whyte, Vice President and Director of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Janney Montgomery Scott, LLC. Erika’s story is one of resilience, vision, and unapologetic self-leadership. From her early days in financial services—when professional norms were drastically different—to her current role in shaping a more inclusive and empowering workplace, Erika embodies the power of stepping forward with purpose. She shares how her upbringing, shaped by her mother’s fearless journey from Central America, instilled a go-for-it mindset. We discussed a pivotal moment in her career when she was told to dumb down her language and how she found the courage to reclaim her voice. Erika also talks about the importance of mentorship, advocacy, and showing up for others, and how she ensures young professionals don’t have to navigate the same barriers she faced. This conversation is a powerful reminder that leadership isn’t about waiting—it’s about taking action, owning your power, and bringing others along for the journey. Erika’s insights on seeing people—genuinely seeing them—offer a fresh perspective on how to lead with heart, even in a world that often feels divided. Listen in, and ask yourself: How can I show up today in a way that honors my voice, values, and ability to lead with heart? Ready to step into your power? today. Let’s make this the moment we stop waiting—and start leading. WHEN YOU’RE READY, HERE’S HOW WE CAN HELP: Masterclass and More: Engage your people with work culture consulting: Hire Heather to speak to your group: Access free Active Listening On-Demand Webinar: Access free Art of Caring Leadership resources: Book a consultation or general contact: ---------------------------------------------------- For more Leadership Motivational videos, click here to subscribe to my channel: Let's connect on social! ---------------------------------------------------- About Heather R Younger, J.D., CSP Heather R Younger is a highly sought-after speaker, 2x-TEDx speaker, diversity, equity and inclusion strategist, and contributor to leading news outlets. She is also the Founder and CEO of Employee Fanatix, a leading employee engagement and consulting firm. After over 25,000 employee engagement surveys and years of working with organizations to transform employee engagement, here’s what Heather has seen over and over: When you know how to listen, employees will tell you exactly what they need to bring their full selves to work. Book Heather to speak at your event or organization. Visit or for more details. /episode/index/show/leadershipwithheart/id/35320165

393: Learning to Lead Yourself is the only Path Forward 02/11/2025

393: Learning to Lead Yourself is the only Path Forward What if the biggest barrier to your success wasn’t external—but internal? What if the way you frame challenges, setbacks, and even opportunities determines how far you can go? Today is a special day—February 11th, the official launch of my new book, The Art of Self-Leadership: Discover the Power Within You and Learn to Lead Yourself. This book isn’t just another leadership guide—it’s a call to action for anyone who feels stuck, powerless, or waiting for permission to move forward. Over the years, I’ve had countless conversations with leaders, employees, and organizations, and I’ve noticed a troubling trend: Too many people feel like they’re at the mercy of their circumstances. They feel like passengers in their own careers, waiting for someone else to open doors, create opportunities, or define their next steps. But here’s the truth: You are the driver. You are your own green light. In this episode, I share: ✅ Why I wrote this book now and what self-leadership really means ✅ How victim thinking holds us back—and how to shift out of it faster ✅ The connection between self-leadership and caring leadership ✅ The role of mindset, choice, and personal responsibility in shaping your future ✅ Why waiting for someone else to lead you is the fastest way to give away your power This book is a toolkit—a guide to help you reclaim your power, make better decisions, and move forward with clarity, courage, and conviction. Because the truth is, no one knows what’s best for you more than you do. So today, I invite you to take this journey with me. Let’s learn to lead ourselves first—so we can show up stronger, more confident, and more intentional in every aspect of life. Ready to step into your power? today. Let’s make this the moment we stop waiting—and start leading. WHEN YOU’RE READY, HERE’S HOW WE CAN HELP: Masterclass and More: Engage your people with work culture consulting: Hire Heather to speak to your group: Access free Active Listening On-Demand Webinar: Access free Art of Caring Leadership resources: Book a consultation or general contact: ---------------------------------------------------- For more Leadership Motivational videos, click here to subscribe to my channel: Let's connect on social! ---------------------------------------------------- About Heather R Younger, J.D., CSP Heather R Younger is a highly sought-after speaker, 2x-TEDx speaker, diversity, equity and inclusion strategist, and contributor to leading news outlets. She is also the Founder and CEO of Employee Fanatix, a leading employee engagement and consulting firm. After over 25,000 employee engagement surveys and years of working with organizations to transform employee engagement, here’s what Heather has seen over and over: When you know how to listen, employees will tell you exactly what they need to bring their full selves to work. Book Heather to speak at your event or organization. Visit or for more details. /episode/index/show/leadershipwithheart/id/35213685