Workplace Forward

The Workplace Forward Podcast is designed to empower perpetually busy, always overstretched senior leaders to prioritize professional development. We aim to answer the question: what behaviors, practices, beliefs, and skills must the future leader possess so that they can successfully lead systems that have changed (and will continue to) at warp speed? The Workplace Forward Podcast provides senior-level leaders and executives with essential insights they can use to navigate the future workplace—along with best practices on bringing out the more human side of leadership. The Podcast features Tegan’s interviews with executives, experts, authors, and innovators about their leadership journeys. Tegan’s conversations focus on workplace issues, business initiatives, and self-care solutions that will help executives take well-deserved time to learn, recharge, and stay ahead of the curve on emerging leadership ideas to gain peace of mind.

Creating Diverse Leadership Teams with Gotara Founder D Sangeeta 10/19/2022

Creating Diverse Leadership Teams with Gotara Founder D Sangeeta Even if you're committed to making your organization and its C-suite leadership more diverse, your network tends to look like you. And as a result, you build a team of people like you. But if you seek out coworkers with complementary skills who are willing to challenge you, your team will perform better and have more fun doing it. So, what can we do as leaders to create a more diverse talent pipeline at work? D Sangeeta is Founder and CEO at , a career growth platform for women in STEM. Gotara provides mentoring and nano-learning programs based on the latest research with the goal of closing the gender gap in science, technology, engineering and math. Sangeeta spent two decades in the corporate world, leading teams at Amazon, Nielson and GE Aviation before launching Gotara in June 2020. She has a PhD in Materials Chemistry from the University of Illinois, holds 26 patents and is the recipient of the Nielson CEO Award, the National Women of Color in Technology Award and the GE Latimer Innovation Award. On this episode of Workplace Forward, Sangeeta joins me to discuss what gets in the way of creating diverse leadership teams, challenging us to hold space for differing opinions and healthy conflict in our organizations. Sangeeta explains how to create more diverse talent pipelines and why it's good for business, describing the Ally Stars and North Star Program Gotara offers current executives and emerging female leaders. Listen in for Sangeeta's actionable advice on promoting diversity of thought at work and learn how Gotara can support you in building diverse leadership teams in your organization. Themes explored in this week’s episode: What inspired Sangeeta to build a career growth platform for women in STEM What gets in the way of creating diverse leadership teams Growing your capacity to hold space for differing opinions and healthy conflict How to create a more diverse talent pipeline in your organization How a diverse leadership pipeline impacts top-line growth, productivity and net profit Gotara’s Ally Stars program to help leaders remove bias and promote inclusivity How Sangeeta’s North Star Program serves emerging female leaders What you can do from your seat today to promote diversity of thought at work Sangeeta’s take on why leaders need to be willing to break the rules How Sangeeta’s leadership has evolved through the volatility of the last 2 years Why leaders of the future need as much EQ as IQ and how women lead in crises Resources from this episode: Read along with this Workplace Forward Podcast episode's Connect with and follow on LinkedIn Follow Gotara on , and Learn more about Gotara at Request a demo of Explore the research around I would love to hear from you! Have an idea for a podcast or a question you want me to address? Interested in additional support, resources and workshops? Here are all the ways you can interact with me! Tweet me Email Follow me on Facebook Follow me on Instagram Connect with me on LinkedIn: Download free tools and sign up for my newsletter, coaching and workshops at /episode/index/show/workplaceforward/id/24256065

Cloverleaf Co-Founders Kirsten Moorefield and Darrin Murriner on Inviting and Leveraging Diverse Perspectives in Our Organizations 09/28/2022

Cloverleaf Co-Founders Kirsten Moorefield and Darrin Murriner on Inviting and Leveraging Diverse Perspectives in Our Organizations It's easy to feel attacked when a colleague volunteers a perspective that differs from your own. But what if their way of seeing the world is not wrong? What if it’s just different? And what if their point of view is complementary to yours? What if, together, you can address each other’s blind spots and support each other better because of your differences? CEO Darrin Murriner and COO Kirsten Moorfield are the co-founders of , a tech platform that provides automated coaching for teams, empowering colleagues to tap into each other’s unique value, communicate effectively and work better together. On this episode of Workplace Forward, Kirsten and Darrin join me to discuss the power in inviting and leveraging diverse perspectives in our organizations and describe how Cloverleaf helps teams do just that. Kirsten and Darrin explain why authenticity in leadership is important to them, exploring the opportunity we have as leaders to model authenticity when we don’t have all the answers. Listen in for insight on training people to appreciate diverse opinions and learn what you can do to help your team respect their differences and build strong relationships with each other. Themes explored in this week’s episode: How Kirsten & Darrin found each other and why they decided to build Cloverleaf How Cloverleaf helps teams create psychological safety and develop an appreciation of diversity and diverse opinions How Cloverleaf provides customized coaching to improve interactions among coworkers Training people to understand how we can support each other through our differences What leaders can do to equip team members to build strong relationships with each other Why Darrin has focused on talking less and listening more in the last few years Kirsten’s insight on differentiating between critical thinkers and critics Why authenticity in leadership is important to Kirsten & Darrin The opportunity to model authenticity that arises when a leader doesn’t have all the answers and how it serves your people to admit to not knowing How leaders of the future will demonstrate good character and put people first Resources from this episode: Read along with this Workplace Forward Podcast episode's Follow @cloverleafme on , , , or Learn more about Cloverleaf and start your free trial at Connect with and or follow on LinkedIn Revisit my conversation with on Workplace Forward EP11 Watch Kirsten’s TED Talk on Read Darrin’s book I would love to hear from you! Have an idea for a podcast or a question you want me to address? Interested in additional support, resources and workshops? Here are all the ways you can interact with me! Tweet me Email Follow me on Facebook Follow me on Instagram Connect with me on LinkedIn: Download free tools and sign up for my newsletter, coaching and workshops at /episode/index/show/workplaceforward/id/24200589

Dorie Clark on The Long Game: Long-Term Thinking in a Short-Term World 09/07/2022

Dorie Clark on The Long Game: Long-Term Thinking in a Short-Term World Are you pushing yourself so hard and so fast that you don’t have time to think? Are you so busy getting through each day that you’re not planning for the long term? Being caught in execution mode isn’t a bad thing. But you have to stop from time to time and ask yourself if what you’re doing is, in fact, the RIGHT thing. The thing that will get you closer to your long-term goals. So, how do you make space in your calendar to consider the long game? How do you become a long-term thinker in a short-term world? was named the #1 Communication Coach at the Marshall Goldsmith Leading Global Coaches Awards and one of the Top 50 Business Thinkers in the World. Dorie also teaches at Duke University’s Fuqua School of Business and Columbia Business School, and she is the bestselling author of several books, including . On this episode of Workplace Forward, Dorie joins me to explore why it’s so challenging to commit to the long game and explain how to decide what’s worthy of the long game for you. She discusses the confusion around being busy versus being important, challenging leaders to maximize our time and make space in the calendar for long-term thinking. Listen in for Dorie’s insight on developing the clarity and character to achieve worthwhile long-term goals in your personal and professional life. Themes explored in this week’s episode: Why long-term thinking is more difficult now than it was 10 years ago How to get clear about what’s worthy of the long game for you Why it’s so challenging to commit to the long game (and what to do about it) Dorie's take on why we confuse being busy with being important How to maximize your time to create open space for long-term thinking What you can learn from conducting a detailed time tracking study How Dorie applies the ‘hell yeah’ test to say no to good opportunities Being intentional about company culture in a remote or hybrid work setting What companies can do to promote diversity and tap into everyone’s full capacity How to think about outsourcing anything that’s not your highest and best use Recognizing good team members and understanding their long-term career goals The #1 question leaders of the future need to ask themselves Resources from this episode: Read along with this Workplace Forward Podcast episode's Follow @dorieclark on and Connect with Dorie on or Learn more about Dorie’s work at Get your copy of Take Dorie’s free Register for Dorie’s or Explore on busyness as a status symbol Read Dorie’s articles on time tracking in and Read by Tony Schwartz and Catherine McCarthy Learn more about ‘hell yeah or no’ test Understand the and the idea of I would love to hear from you! Have an idea for a podcast or a question you want me to address? Interested in additional support, resources and workshops? Here are all the ways you can interact with me! Tweet me Email Follow me on Facebook Follow me on Instagram Connect with me on LinkedIn: Download free tools and sign up for my newsletter, coaching and workshops at /episode/index/show/workplaceforward/id/24156129

Procter & Gamble SVP of R&D and Innovation, Julie Setser—5 Principles for Taking Leaps of Faith 08/17/2022

Procter & Gamble SVP of R&D and Innovation, Julie Setser—5 Principles for Taking Leaps of Faith Whether you’re looking to take the next big step in your career or leading an organization to the next level of growth, it requires a leap of faith. But what is the best way to make decisions effectively when the future is unclear? is Senior Vice President of R&D and Innovation at Procter & Gamble, where she is currently leading the company-wide digital transformation. A strategic leader with 35 years of experience, Julie has expertise in driving transformation and disruptive innovation, and she is passionate about translating consumer insights into business growth. On this episode of Workplace Forward, Julie joins me to share her 5 Principles for Taking Leaps of Faith, explaining why it’s crucial for leaders to embrace uncertainty and lead with clarity. She describes how to make your assumptions explicit and get comfortable with low resolution, challenging us to ask ‘what needs to be true’ to take a given leap effectively. Listen in for Julie’s insight on going slow to go fast and learn how to apply her 5 Leap of Faith Principles to your own life and work. Themes explored in this week’s episode: Julie’s 5 Leap of Faith Principles for getting to the next level of growth How Julie designed the framework to make big decisions when the future is unclear Why it’s crucial for leaders to resist the idea that the future is certain How to get clear on where you’re going but be flexible about how to get there Knowing what needs to be true to take a leap effectively How making your assumptions explicit can help you move into a new business Getting comfortable with low resolution and developing the discipline of zooming in and out What it means to go slow in order to go fast Examples of how Julie applies the 5 principles in her own life and work What tactical habits leaders need to live the 5 Leap of Faith Principles Julie’s insight on the power of networking and how it’s evolved over time Resources from this episode: Read along with this Workplace Forward Podcast episode's Connect with Julie on Explore Learn more about I would love to hear from you! Have an idea for a podcast or a question you want me to address? Interested in additional support, resources and workshops? Here are all the ways you can interact with me! Tweet me Email Follow me on Facebook Follow me on Instagram Connect with me on LinkedIn: Download free tools and sign up for my newsletter, coaching and workshops at /episode/index/show/workplaceforward/id/24038826

Connection That Grows Influence and Impact with Michelle Tillis Lederman 07/27/2022

Connection That Grows Influence and Impact with Michelle Tillis Lederman How do you feel about networking? Do you see it as extra work you just don’t have time for? Or something you have to psych yourself up to do? What if networking didn’t have to be ‘work’ at all? What if we reframed it as a way of being? A mindset that prioritizes meaningful connection with others? One of Forbes Top 25 Networking Experts, is an accomplished speaker, trainer and coach. As the CEO of , she works with organizations and individuals to help them build real relationships for better results. Michelle’s impressive client roster includes Madison Square Garden, Johnson & Johnson and Michigan State University. She is also the author of four books, including . On this episode of Workplace Forward, Michelle joins me to explore what it means to be a Connector, explaining how anyone can build the necessary skills and why diversifying connections gives us a competitive advantage. Michelle walks us through the seven mindsets of a Connector, describing the spirit of generosity, openness and attitude of abundance that help Connectors cultivate strong relationships in our personal and professional lives. Listen in for insight on maintaining connections as part of what you’re already doing and learn how to ask your network for help without putting relationships at risk. Themes explored in this week’s episode: What it means to be a Connector and why Michelle prefers the term over ‘networking’ The 7 mindsets of a Connector The impact of social isolation on our mental and physical health Why it’s advantageous to expand your network and be an Inclusive Connector Why a spirit of generosity serves as the foundation of connection How having a clear vision cultivates connection How to ask for help without putting relationships at risk Moving up the Connector spectrum through responsiveness, initiation, breadth and depth The natural strengths and stretches of introverts and extroverts when it comes to being a Connector How to be open and accepting of your own ‘unique charms’ without overleveraging them Michelle’s tips for maintaining connections as part of what you’re already doing Resources from this episode: Read along with this Workplace Forward Podcast episode's Subscribe to Gift Take Michelle’s Access Michelle’s Visit or Follow Michelle on Get your copy of and Learn more about Sally Helgesen’s Explore Marshall Goldsmith’s I would love to hear from you! Have an idea for a podcast or a question you want me to address? Interested in additional support, resources and workshops? Here are all the ways you can interact with me! Tweet me Email Follow me on Facebook Follow me on Instagram Connect with me on LinkedIn: Download free tools and sign up for my newsletter, coaching and workshops at /episode/index/show/workplaceforward/id/23684630

What Senior Executives Need to Be Listening for Today, with CMO Sherianne James 07/06/2022

What Senior Executives Need to Be Listening for Today, with CMO Sherianne James Here at Bright Arrow, we interview the stakeholders of C-suite teams we’re coaching. And the CEO and other CXOs are often surprised by the feedback we share. Because even when senior executives open the door to conversation, the next line of leaders hold back. They nod their heads and say, ‘Yes, everything’s good.’ Yet in confidential interviews, we uncover frustration and resistance. So, how can senior leaders learn to listen deeply and read their team’s subtle cues? And what can we do to train aspiring executives to speak up? is a business-minded marketing leader with 25-plus years of experience unlocking the power of brands to create shareholder value. She has managed iconic brands like Kraft Singles, Planters Nuts, Black & Decker, Milk Bone and George Foreman. In her current role, Sherianne leverages her consumer product marketing experience to build successful B2C and B2B go-to-market strategies for the optical industry, and she has been twice named to Vision Monday’s list of the Most Influential Women in Optical as well as Dallas CMO of the Year. On this episode of Workplace Forward, Sherianne joins me to explain why the deliberate practice of listening is an essential skill for senior executives, describing how discontent and resistance can go undetected when we ignore nonverbal cues. Sherianne offers advice on empowering the next level of leadership to act on the invitation to share honestly, challenging us to demonstrate our humanness with employees without losing our authority as C-suite leaders. Listen in as Sherianne shares her experience as a woman of color in senior leadership roles and learn how to help aspiring executives communicate effectively, curating messages with both conciseness and clarity. Themes explored in this week’s episode: Why the deliberate practice of listening is an essential skill for senior executives How a C-suite title can get in the way of team members sharing honestly The challenge of reading your team’s subtle cues and how the issue is compounded by the dynamic way we work now Why Sherianne reserves complex conversations for days her team is in the office Sherianne’s advice on empowering the next level of leadership to act on the invitation to share honestly Why discontent can go undetected and how senior leaders benefit from reading nonverbal cues The balance between demonstrating your humanness with employees and maintaining the weight of being a senior leader How Sherianne helps aspiring senior leaders communicate with conciseness and clarity Sherianne’s experience as a woman of color in senior leadership roles How Sherianne has learned not to internalize resistance and to make strategic decisions re: when to react Resources from this episode: Read along with this Workplace Forward Podcast episode's Follow Sherianne on I would love to hear from you! Have an idea for a podcast or a question you want me to address? Interested in additional support, resources and workshops? Here are all the ways you can interact with me! Tweet me Email Follow me on Facebook Follow me on Instagram Connect with me on LinkedIn: Download free tools and sign up for my newsletter, coaching and workshops at /episode/index/show/workplaceforward/id/23557145

Crocs Chief Operating and Transformation Officer, Elaine Boltz on Leading Systems and Managing Risk During a Crisis 06/15/2022

Crocs Chief Operating and Transformation Officer, Elaine Boltz on Leading Systems and Managing Risk During a Crisis Imagine taking on a new leadership role overseeing the supply chain at a global brand for the first time in your career. Now imagine that your first week in this new role is the same week that North America and the EU shut down in response to the pandemic. With more than a decade of experience leading retail, omnichannel and online businesses, took on the role of Chief Operating and Transformation Officer at in March 2020. Prior to joining Crocs, Elaine served as President of TJX Digital, SVP and General Manager of the Direct-to-Consumer Division at Chico’s FAS and Chief Marketing and Strategy Officer of Ann, Inc. On this episode of Workplace Forward, Elaine joins me to discuss what she’s learned about managing risk in a crisis and describe how she’s grown in her ability to lead across systems in the last two years. Elaine explains how to engage teams and build trust in the absence of the proverbial water cooler and explores how the unusual shifts in her career prepared her to lead through a pandemic. Listen in for Elaine’s insight on the come-as-you-are corporate culture at Crocs and learn how to get comfortable with being uncomfortable, build your confidence and lead well during a crisis. Themes explored in this week’s episode: How Elaine’s leadership has evolved to create emotional safety in times of uncertainty and see the opportunity in difficult moments What it looks like to engage teams and build trust in the absence of the proverbial water cooler The willingness to admit you don’t know and why it’s a strength in leadership teams How Elaine’s skills in managing risk and leading systems have developed in the last 2 years How Crocs’ cross-functional, systemic lens contributes to the company’s success How the unusual shifts in Elaine’s career helped prepare her to lead through the pandemic Why taking on assignments where you don’t know what you’re doing builds confidence and develops muscles for dealing with uncertainty The come-as-you-are corporate culture at Crocs and what it looks like in practice The flexibility employees are asking for as they work in an atmosphere of uncertainty Why leaders of the future must be comfortable with being uncomfortable Resources from this episode: Read along with this Workplace Forward Podcast episode's Visit the Crocs website at Connect with Elaine on Learn more about I would love to hear from you! Have an idea for a podcast or a question you want me to address? Interested in additional support, resources and workshops? Here are all the ways you can interact with me! Tweet me Email Follow me on Facebook Follow me on Instagram Connect with me on LinkedIn: Download free tools and sign up for my newsletter, coaching and workshops at /episode/index/show/workplaceforward/id/23215325

Creating a Culture of Psychological Safety with Brett Townsend 05/25/2022

Creating a Culture of Psychological Safety with Brett Townsend It’s more important than ever to create a culture of psychological safety at work. But what, exactly, does that look like in practice? What can we do as leaders to cultivate a space where team members feel comfortable speaking freely? is a thought leader in the realm of consumer insights and serves on the Board of Directors for the . He's led high-performing teams and developed scores of new products for some of the best-known brands in the world, including Pepsi, Lay's, Jack Daniel’s and Dickies. On this episode of Workplace Forward, Brett joins me to discuss the benefit of getting to know your team as people and describes what he does to create a culture of psychological safety in the workplace. Brett explains why it’s crucial to meet employees with empathy and develop an awareness of their mental health, leaning into the leadership qualities of flexibility and grace in times of crisis. Listen in to understand why Brett is known as the anti-Michael Corleone of the workplace and learn how he leverages vulnerability, openness and gratitude to create a safe space for his team at work. Themes explored in this week’s episode: The size and scope of the interdepartmental teams Brett has led over the years Why Brett is referred to as the anti-Michael Corleone of the workplace Brett’s personal leadership philosophy and the benefit of getting to know your team as people How Brett helps his team members get to know each other on a personal level Leaning into the leadership qualities of flexibility and grace in times of crisis Why it’s crucial to meet employees with empathy and develop an awareness of their mental and emotional health What Brett does to create a culture of psychological safety in the workplace Brett’s unique approach to one-on-ones and the 4-and-2 feedback model he uses with his team How a good boss expresses gratitude and plays to people’s strengths Brett’s advice to executives on seeking continued growth and development as leaders Resources from this episode: Read along with this Workplace Forward Podcast episode's Follow Brett on or Learn more about the Explore Adam Grant’s work at Listen to Discover the personality framework Read I would love to hear from you! Have an idea for a podcast or a question you want me to address? Interested in additional support, resources and workshops? Here are all the ways you can interact with me! Tweet me Email Follow me on Facebook Follow me on Instagram Connect with me on LinkedIn: Download free tools and sign up for my newsletter, coaching and workshops at /episode/index/show/workplaceforward/id/23096294

Roti CEO, Justin Seamonds on The Importance of Clarity in Leadership 05/04/2022

Roti CEO, Justin Seamonds on The Importance of Clarity in Leadership How do you successfully lead a restaurant through the uncertainty of a global pandemic? According to Justin Seamonds, you start with clarity, focusing on what you can control and inspiring your team with a mission that matters. Justin is the Prime Minister of Fun and Chief Executive Officer at , a Mediterranean-inspired fast casual brand on a mission to serve food that loves you back. With more than 25 years of experience in the hospitality industry, Justin led upscale grocery market Dean & DeLuca before taking the helm at Roti in early 2020 to build the new brand philosophy: Crave Better. On this episode of Workplace Forward, Justin joins me to discuss the importance of clarity in leadership, describing the sense of purpose you need to lead well in uncertain times. Justin shares his experience leaning into collective leadership at Roti through the pandemic and explains his commitment to democratizing truth and transparency with his team. Listen in for Justin's advice around leading with authenticity and learn how Roti leveraged the pandemic to get clear on who they wanted to be and initiate the Roti Revolution. Themes explored in this week’s episode: Roti's unique mission and how it informs Justin's approach to leadership Justin's insight on the sense of purpose you need to lead well in uncertain times How Justin leveraged clarity to keep Roti frontline employees and customers safe during the pandemic Justin's experience leaning into collective leadership at Roti throughout the pandemic How the pandemic facilitated what Justin calls the Roti Revolution Justin's commitment to democratizing truth and transparency with his team How the demands of the last couple of years affected the way Justin communicates and his appreciation for speed The benefit of generating collective energy around decisions involving intuition Justin's advice on leading with authenticity in your personal and professional life Justin's take on how leaders of the future will 'crave better' Resources from this episode: Follow Roti on or Learn more about Download the I would love to hear from you! Have an idea for a podcast or a question you want me to address? Interested in additional support, resources and workshops? Here are all the ways you can interact with me! Tweet me Email Follow me on Facebook Follow me on Instagram Connect with me on LinkedIn: Download free tools and sign up for my newsletter, coaching and workshops at /episode/index/show/workplaceforward/id/22999076

Conagra VP of Precision Marketing Dane Mathews, on The Art of Making Big Decisions — With or Without Data 04/13/2022

Conagra VP of Precision Marketing Dane Mathews, on The Art of Making Big Decisions — With or Without Data As leaders, we're responsible for making informed decisions. And that means gathering data in the form of feedback from others or more formal statistical analysis. But what do you do when there is no precedent for what you're up against? How do you make key decisions for your organization in the absence of data? is the Vice President of Precision Marketing at , where he leverages enterprise agility, personalization, technological enablement and advanced analytics to lead the organization's digital marketing transformation. Dane has 15-plus years of experience leading the development of transformative consumer experiences at several prominent companies, including Caesars Entertainment, Target and McDonald's. On this episode of Workplace Forward, Dane joins me to explain why leadership doesn't have to be lonely, exploring how he taps into the experience of others to co-create the transformation he's leading. Dane describes how to leverage collaboration, agility and practice to accelerate growth in an organization and shares his own personal growth in the realm of risk-taking and making intuitive decisions when data isn’t available. Listen in for Dane's insight on democratizing innovation across teams and learn the art (and science) of making key leadership decisions—with or without data. Themes explored in this week’s episode: The idea of precision marketing and how it's grounded in evidence and consumer behavior Why Dane doesn't believe leadership is lonely How Dane taps into the experience of peers to co-design the digital transformation he's leading How Dane leverages collaboration, agility and practice to ensure that his leaders aren't operating from an island Being declarative about time and using it as a tool to flesh out what you really need to be successful The power of celebrating wins with buy-in and recognition from senior leadership How Dane saw risk-taking as a growth area for his leadership prior to the pandemic Dane's intuitive decision to move 20% of Conagra's media spend to eCommerce platforms How Dane reframes his fear of making decisions that might be seen as imperfect Why it's crucial for leaders of the future to democratize innovation across their teams Resources from this episode: Read along with this Workplace Forward Podcast episode's Follow Dane on or Learn more about Explore I would love to hear from you! Have an idea for a podcast or a question you want me to address? Interested in additional support, resources and workshops? Here are all the ways you can interact with me! Tweet me Email Follow me on Facebook Follow me on Instagram Connect with me on LinkedIn: Download free tools and sign up for my newsletter, coaching and workshops at /episode/index/show/workplaceforward/id/22756043

Leaders Let the Story Do the Work with Esther Choy 03/23/2022

Leaders Let the Story Do the Work with Esther Choy Persuasive storytelling creates extraordinary opportunities, allowing us to engage with customers and partners in a meaningful way. But how do we craft a memorable story that connects with our professional goals? What does it mean for leaders to let the story do the work? Esther Choy is the President and Chief Story Facilitator at , a consulting firm that celebrates the art and science of storytelling as an essential element of business success. Esther also teaches in the executive education programs at Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management, and she is the author of . On this episode of Workplace Forward, Esther joins me to discuss the three levels of communication mastery outlined in her book, describing what differentiates proving from persuading and why effective leaders need to do both. Esther explores how her research around wealth creators and experience with family-owned companies informs her work in storytelling for business. Listen in to understand why the best storytellers are also story collectors and learn to share persuasive, personal stories without divulging your private business. Themes explored in this week’s episode: Esther’s 3 levels of communication mastery (and why most people get stuck in Level 2) How self-awareness + an event with a deadline can catalyze us to Level 3 Communication Mastery What differentiates proving from persuading and how effective leaders do both How Esther is integrating wealth creators into her work around business storytelling What Esther learned about first-generation ultra-high-net-worth individuals from her research for ‘Transforming Partnerships with Major Donors’ How family-owned businesses differ from other companies The connection between being a good storyteller and a story collector What senior leaders struggle with when it comes to storytelling How Esther’s own leadership has changed in the last 2 years Delineating the difference between sharing what is personal vs. what is private Why Esther encourages leaders to waste time doing something unproductive Resources from this episode: Read along with this Workplace Forward Podcast episode's Learn more about Esther’s work at Follow Esther on , , or Subscribe to Leadership Story Lab on Read Buy a copy of Esther’s book, Listen to the Download Esther’s research study, Explore the Listen to Esther’s interviews with and Register for Esther’s monthly I would love to hear from you! Have an idea for a podcast or a question you want me to address? Interested in additional support, resources and workshops? Here are all the ways you can interact with me! Tweet me Email Follow me on Facebook Follow me on Instagram Connect with me on LinkedIn: Download free tools and sign up for my newsletter, coaching and workshops at /episode/index/show/workplaceforward/id/22394021

Angel Investor, Sue Bevan Baggott on How (Human) Connection Drives Innovation 03/02/2022

Angel Investor, Sue Bevan Baggott on How (Human) Connection Drives Innovation Innovation is central to the long-term success of any business. But what can we do as leaders to promote innovation on our teams? What role does human connection play in facilitating new ideas? is the Founder of , a firm dedicated to helping clients connect with the deep human insights required to build a successful business. She is also an angel investor, startup advisor and board member on a mission to drive positive change in the entrepreneurial ecosystem through connection and innovation. On this episode of Workplace Forward, Sue joins me to share how she ‘accidentally’ became an angel investor and explain why she focuses on working with startups to drive the change she wants to see in the world. Sue describes why it’s crucial for leaders to empathize with their teams and how employee insights are key in helping companies innovate. Listen in to understand how the ambiguity surrounding the pandemic has changed the dynamics of leadership and learn to leverage the power of human connection to foster innovation on your team. Themes explored in this week’s episode: How Sue ‘accidentally’ became an angel investor The 4 barriers to entry to angel investing for women and people of color Sue’s focus on working with startups to create a culture of diversity What characteristics investors are looking for in the leaders of a startup Why it’s crucial for leaders to empathize with their employees How employee insights help companies innovate How Cloverleaf leverages tech to help us build relationships at work What leaders can do to show up as the best version of ourselves at work Why employees are calling for more freedom, flexibility and autonomy The power of human connection in all aspects of leadership Resources from this episode: Read along with this Workplace Forward Podcast episode's Learn more about Sue’s work at Follow Sue on LinkedIn at Explore automated coaching through Invest with or I would love to hear from you! Have an idea for a podcast or a question you want me to address? Interested in additional support, resources and workshops? Here are all the ways you can interact with me! Tweet me Email Follow me on Facebook Follow me on Instagram Connect with me on LinkedIn: Download free tools and sign up for my newsletter, coaching and workshops at /episode/index/show/workplaceforward/id/22219361

The Transformative Power of Liminality with Dr. Deb Loftus 02/10/2022

The Transformative Power of Liminality with Dr. Deb Loftus Liminality comes from the Latin root limen, which points to a threshold, border or beginning. And while liminality does imply change, it’s more than that. Moving through a liminal space has the power to transform us, provided we recognize the opportunity. So, what does it look like to lead through a liminal time? How can we bring out the best in ourselves and our teams while we find new ways to get work done? Dr. Deb Loftus is the Founder and President at , a consulting firm that provides customized solutions for individual leadership development, team effectiveness and organizational improvement. Dr. Loftus has a PhD in Clinical and Personality Psychology from Northwestern University and currently serves as adjunct faculty at her alma mater, teaching leadership courses at the graduate level. On this episode of Workplace Forward, Dr. Loftus joins me to explain the idea of liminal space and explore how liminality is playing out for individuals, teams and organizations through the pandemic. She describes how to turn liminality into opportunity, challenging leaders to bring a spirit of inquiry to the process and be attuned to the bright spots that emerge. Listen in for insight around the hard conversations Dr. Loftus is having with leaders right now and learn how to guide yourself and others through this period of great liminality. Themes explored in this week’s episode: How Dr. Loftus defines liminal space and why it’s important The 3 stages of liminality an individual, team or organization moves through as their identity shifts How the concept of liminal space is playing out through the pandemic What leaders recognize about the importance of fostering meaningful connection at work What questions to ask if you feel trapped in a repeat cycle of falling back into liminal space How to turn liminality into opportunity by identifying the bright spots What’s emerging from the hard conversations Dr. Loftus is having with leaders right now Dr. Loftus’ insight on the blurred boundaries between work and home life (and what to do about it) How leaders can guide themselves and others through this period of great liminality Resources from this episode: Learn more about Dr. Loftus’ work at Follow Dr. Loftus on LinkedIn at Access Dr. Loftus’ LinkedIn article, Look into in the Harvard Business Review Explore Meg Wheatley’s work at Read by Chip & Dan Heath I would love to hear from you! Have an idea for a podcast or a question you want me to address? Interested in additional support, resources and workshops? Here are all the ways you can interact with me! Tweet me Email Follow me on Facebook Follow me on Instagram Connect with me on LinkedIn: Download free tools and sign up for my newsletter, coaching and workshops at /episode/index/show/workplaceforward/id/21999368

How Leaders Develop and Practice Insight with Gina Fong 02/03/2022

How Leaders Develop and Practice Insight with Gina Fong Consumer insight helps brands predict behavior and anticipate what you need—before you even know you need it. And as leaders, we, too, need to know what motivates our team members, clients and other stakeholders. But how do you discover this insight into what makes people tick? What skills can you develop and practice that will deepen your understanding of others? is a consumer anthropologist, insights coach and keynote speaker at Fong Insight, a market research firm that educates organizations around using insight to surprise and delight their customers. Gina also teaches at Northwestern University’s Kellogg School of Management, transforming the classroom into what she calls a curiosity gymnasium that inspires students to think with their head, heart and gut. On this episode of Workplace Forward, Gina joins me to discuss the role of a consumer anthropologist and describe how insight helps us understand what motivates people, predict their behavior and anticipate what they need. She walks us through the six components of her ‘insight muscle’ framework, challenging us to build the mindset of curiosity, introspection and empathy required to understand others on a deeper level. Listen in to understand the skills of observing, listening and inquiring leaders need to gain insight into the people we serve and learn where to go for exercises that will help strengthen your ‘insight muscle.’ Themes explored in this week’s episode: The role of a consumer anthropologist in understanding how people use products and helping companies make them better What differentiates data (WHAT people do) from insight (WHY people do what they do) How insight helps us understand what motivates people, predict their behavior and anticipate what they need The 6 components of Gina’s ‘insight muscle’ framework How a mindset of curiosity, introspection and empathy helps leaders understand themselves and others on a deeper level Gina’s insight on the 2 major misconceptions about empathy The skill set of observing, listening and inquiring leaders can leverage to gain insight into the people they serve What 3 types of questions are most effective in learning what makes people tick How Gina’s course on customer insights at the Kellogg School of Business impacts her students in terms of leadership Why insight takes deliberate and nuanced practice (and where to go for exercises to strengthen your insight muscle) Resources from this episode: Reach out to Gina on LinkedIn at Learn more about Gina's courses at the I would love to hear from you! Have an idea for a podcast or a question you want me to address? Interested in additional support, resources and workshops? Here are all the ways you can interact with me! Tweet me Email Follow me on Facebook Follow me on Instagram Connect with me on LinkedIn: Download free tools and sign up for my newsletter, coaching and workshops at /episode/index/show/workplaceforward/id/21986960

The Business Case for Empathy with Liesel Mertes 01/27/2022

The Business Case for Empathy with Liesel Mertes Amid a global pandemic, empathy in the workplace has become a popular topic. But is it just a PR thing? Or does empathy really impact the bottom line? According to social science data, demonstrating empathy at work does matter. So, what is the business case for empathy? is an acclaimed workplace empathy expert with a deep understanding of what employees need to feel supported at work after a disruptive life event. She has developed trainings and talks around issues such as loss, returning to work, compassion fatigue, cultivating resilience and the brain science of empathy. Liesel founded Handle with Care to help forward-thinking organizations boost employee engagement and attract and retain better talent, and she is committed to helping people survive, stabilize and thrive in the aftermath of adversity. Liesel is also the host of the . On this episode of Workplace Forward, Liesel joins me to define empathy and explain why it’s crucial in the workplace right now, challenging leaders to view empathy as a skill rather than a fixed personality trait. She offers insight on the brain science behind empathy in the workplace and describes what gets in the way of leaders and teams demonstrating empathy well. Listen in for Liesel’s insight around how empathy impacts productivity and get her simple tips for practicing empathy in the workplace straight away. Themes explored in this week’s episode: How Liesel defines empathy and why it should lead to compassionate action Why empathy is crucial in the workplace right now What makes empathy a skill rather than a fixed personality trait How empathy impacts the bottom line, i.e.: productivity and talent retention The brain science behind empathy and how it helps people work effectively through disruptive life events Liesel’s insight around the grief we’ve all experienced the last 2 years (and why leaders need empathy reciprocated to them) Why it’s important to understand our feelings and how Liesel helps clients acknowledge and name their emotional experiences Why leaders should continue to display care even if team members don’t respond What gets in the way of leaders and teams demonstrating empathy well Liesel’s tips around how to start practicing empathy right away (and what cliches to avoid) How to build care and intention into your calendar Resources from this episode: Follow Liesel on or Learn more about Liesel’s work at Listen to Liesel on the Access Brene Brown’s work at Read the Explore the Hear on Handle with Care Get Forbes’ take on I would love to hear from you! Have an idea for a podcast or a question you want me to address? Interested in additional support, resources and workshops? Here are all the ways you can interact with me! Tweet me Email Follow me on Facebook Follow me on Instagram Connect with me on LinkedIn: Download free tools and sign up for my newsletter, coaching and workshops at /episode/index/show/workplaceforward/id/21876716

Desirable Difficulty and Crucible Leadership Moments with Suzanne Coonan 01/05/2022

Desirable Difficulty and Crucible Leadership Moments with Suzanne Coonan The last two years have tested leaders, pushing us to operate under intense pressure at an unprecedented pace. And while these Crucible Leadership Moments can be incredibly challenging, they are also opportunities for accelerated growth and transformation. In fact, suggests that intentionally putting ourselves in circumstances of ‘desirable difficulty’ helps leaders develop the resilience we need to thrive in these complex and uncertain times. Suzanne is an accomplished leadership development expert and executive coach who partners with high-performing, high-achieving leaders to navigate challenging and complex environments, advance their careers, manage their energy and find more meaning and balance in work and in life. Suzanne has 20-plus years of experience, most recently serving as Senior Executive Coach for one of the world’s largest global technology companies, and she is passionate about helping leaders embrace the opportunity in these evolving times. On this episode of Workplace Forward, Suzanne joins me to explore how navigating challenges brings out the best in leaders and share her top strategies for building resilience in uncertain times. She offers insight on navigating Crucible Leadership Moments, encouraging leaders to share these transformative experiences with their teams and make time to reflect on both planned, positive challenges and unplanned, negative ones. Listen in for advice embracing novelty as an opportunity for growth and engage in Suzanne’s challenge to take on a ‘desirable difficulty’ of your own in 2022! Themes explored in this week’s episode: Suzanne’s top 2 values (connection and possibility) and how they influence her work How navigating challenges has brought out the best in leaders over the last 2 years Suzanne’s top strategies for building resilience in leaders How Suzanne defines Crucible Leadership Moments and how she coaches leaders through negative, unplanned experiences The benefit of intentionally giving yourself ‘desirable difficulty’ during these complex and uncertain times How to navigate a ‘desirable difficulty’ without letting it take you under Why Suzanne encourages leaders to share their Crucible Moments out loud with their teams and offer their team members desirable difficulties to support their growth How to create a process for reflecting on your Crucible Moments and why it’s important Suzanne’s challenge to put yourself in a situation of ‘desirable difficulty’ in 2022 and the criteria for choosing it (mastery, mindfulness and meaning) Suzanne’s take on how leaders of the future will embrace novelty as an opportunity Resources from this episode: Follow Suzanne Coonan on Listen to on the Dare to Lead Podcast Read Jim Collins’ book Get Suzanne’s insight on resilience on Explore on language and leadership Access Warren Bennis and Robert J. Thomas’ 2002 article in the Harvard Business Review Learn more about Find out more about languishing in Adam Grant’s or I would love to hear from you! Have an idea for a podcast or a question you want me to address? Interested in additional support, resources and workshops? Here are all the ways you can interact with me! Tweet me Email Follow me on Facebook Follow me on Instagram Connect with me on LinkedIn: Download free tools and sign up for my newsletter, coaching and workshops at /episode/index/show/workplaceforward/id/21684812

Workplace Forward Podcast Trailer 12/02/2021

Workplace Forward

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