In this final episode of Evolve: A New Era of Leadership, I reflect on my journey of producing the show and share my decision to take a pause from podcasting to focus more deeply on trauma-informed leadership. After 90 episodes filled with meaningful conversations with incredible guests, I've come to appreciate the transformative power of trauma-informed leadership in creating resilient, purpose-driven organizations. Throughout this process, I've continually emphasized the importance of self-awareness, self-regulation, and co-regulation—three key elements that I believe every leader should explore to build workplaces that truly tap into human potential while breaking free from outdated patterns. This episode feels bittersweet as I share how my work has impacted others, from leadership circles to academic communities. I've had the privilege of completing a year-long training in trauma-informed coaching and consulting, under the guidance of Thomas Hübl and Amy Elizabeth Fox, which has only deepened my commitment to this vital area of leadership. I'm incredibly grateful to all of the guests who joined me on this journey and to each one of you for tuning in. Though I've decided to take a break from Evolve, this is not goodbye—it's a chance for me to dig deeper into this work and return with even more insight and focus. 🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways: The Power of Trauma-Informed Leadership: I reflect on how trauma and emotional wounds impact leadership and how addressing these factors can foster stronger, more empathetic organizations. 🧠 Creating Safe Workplaces: I talk about the importance of psychological and physiological safety in the workplace, encouraging leaders to create environments where people feel safe enough to grow, thrive, and heal. 🔒 Reevaluating Purpose: I ask you to consider how your own emotional wounds and experiences may shape your leadership style and deepen your sense of purpose. 💡 The Future of Leadership: I believe trauma-informed leadership is the future, focusing on empathy, vulnerability, and self-awareness to help us lead more effectively in today's complex world. 🌍 Personal Reflections and Future Direction: This pause is giving me the space to continue researching and speaking about trauma-informed leadership, and to align my work even more closely with my passion. 🌱 We talk about: 00:00 Intro 00:49 The Impact of Trauma Informed Leadership 05:44 Taking a Break and Future Directions 08:31 Reflecting on Emotional Wounds in Leadership 11:28 Creating Trauma-Informed Workplaces 12:30 Finding Meaning and Purpose in Work 14:04 Gratitude and Future Directions #TraumaInformedLeadership #LeadershipJourney #ResilientOrganizations #EmpathyInLeadership #EmotionalWounds Connect with me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolynswora/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolynswora/ Website: https://www.carolynswora.com/ Contact: media@carolynswora.com
In this episode of Evolve: A New Era of Leadership, I'm joined by Shelly Starks, CEO of Inline Consulting Services and a seasoned business advisor with over 20 years of coaching experience. Together, they explore the profound impact of communication on leadership and dive into the powerful Identity Role Theory that Shelly uses to help her clients unlock new levels of personal and professional growth. Shelly emphasizes the critical importance of effective communication in leadership, highlighting how mindful and intentional communication can break down defensive barriers and raise emotional intelligence. She explains how many leaders operate on autopilot, particularly in communication, and how this can harm both their effectiveness and relationships. Shelly also introduces Identity Role Theory, a framework that helps individuals understand how their core identity is intertwined with the various roles they play in life. 🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways: The Power of Communication: Shelly underscores the importance of moving beyond autopilot in leadership communication, tailoring messages to the behavioral styles of others to foster trust and openness. 🔄 Identity Role Theory: Shelly explains how our identity and roles influence each other. Starting with the idea that we enter the world as a "10" in terms of self-worth, the theory explores how life experiences in different roles (e.g., parent, employee) can diminish our sense of identity and impact all aspects of our life. 📖 Mindful Communication: Shelly introduces the Extended DISC tool, which helps leaders understand their behavioral style and how they may be "extending" themselves into other styles to be effective. This misalignment can cause burnout, stress, and inauthenticity, affecting both personal and professional life. 🧠 Nurturing Identity: Shelly stresses the importance of spending time with oneself to nurture and protect one's core identity. She emphasizes that leaders must be intentional about separating their identity from the roles they play in order to show up as their best selves in every role. 🌟 The Three-Legged Stool of Leadership: Shelly introduces her coaching concept, which involves focusing on the client-facing side, the business's bottom line, and the internal team. Neglecting any of these legs can lead to instability in the entire organization. 🪑 We talk about: 00:00 Intro 05:54 The Impact of Identity on Roles 10:36 Practical Applications of Identity Role Theory 16:23 Nurturing Your Identity 19:46 The Power of Team Coaching 20:33 Understanding Identity Beyond Roles 22:15 Impact of Burnout on Roles and Identity 24:39 Practical Applications and Client Experiences 31:37 Advice for Leaders and Final Thoughts #LeadershipCommunication #IdentityRoleTheory #MindfulLeadership #ExtendedDISC #EvolvePodcast Connect with Shelly LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelly-starks/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/shellystarks/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ShellyStarksICS www.shellystarks.com Connect with me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolynswora/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolynswora/ Website: https://www.carolynswora.com/ Contact: media@carolynswora.com
In this episode of Evolve: A New Era of Leadership, I'm joined by Heather Plett, author of the award-winning book The Art of Holding Space: A Practice of Love, Liberation, and Leadership. Heather shares her deep insights on the powerful practice of holding space, its transformative impact on leadership, and the evolving needs of leaders in today's world. Heather discusses how holding space is a key leadership competency that fosters personal and organizational transformation. From her extensive experience as a facilitator and co-founder of the Centre for Holding Space, Heather explains how leaders can integrate this practice into their work to foster healing, growth, and more authentic leadership approaches. 🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways: The Practice of Holding Space: Heather defines holding space as walking alongside someone without judgment, fixing, or directing them. She emphasizes that it's primarily an internal practice of managing one's emotions and reactions to support others effectively. 🧘♀️ Liminal Space: The conversation delves into liminal space, which is the space between one story and the next. Heather compares this to a caterpillar's transformation into a butterfly, encouraging leaders to honor transitions and allow space for personal and organizational evolution. 🦋 Brave Space vs Safe Space: Heather challenges the notion of creating entirely "safe spaces" in leadership and instead advocates for "brave spaces" that invite discomfort and growth while still providing support and security. 🌱 Emotional Maturity in Leadership: Heather discusses the importance of emotional maturity, vulnerability, and trauma-informed leadership as critical competencies for leaders today. She stresses that leaders must evolve from patriarchal, hierarchical models to those that foster collaboration, compassion, and transformation. 💡 Co-Regulation and Support Systems: Heather highlights the importance of leaders having support systems and co-regulation strategies in place to manage the stress and emotional challenges that come with leadership roles. 🌳 We talk about: 00:00 Intro 05:08 The Intersection of Leadership and Healing 07:41 Challenges in Modern Leadership 10:15 The Importance of Emotional Maturity 20:09 The Concept of Holding Space 28:43 The Role of Leaders as Shock Absorbers 32:21 Introducing the Concept of Liminal Space 35:03 Liminal Space in the Workplace 37:34 Practical Steps for Leaders 49:59 Conclusion and Call to Action #HoldingSpace #LiminalSpace #BraveLeadership #EmotionalMaturity #LeadershipTransformation Connect with Heather https://heatherplett.com/ Connect with me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolynswora/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolynswora/ Website: https://www.carolynswora.com/ Contact: media@carolynswora.com
In this episode of Evolve: A New Era of Leadership, I'm joined by Tevi Lawson, author of The Proxy Diet: A Practical Guide to Self-Analysis and Healing. Tevi delves into his journey from West Africa to the U.S., his personal challenges, and how these experiences inspired the development of the Proxy Method, a framework designed to bridge the gap between mind, energy, and self. Tevi's powerful insights highlight the importance of emotional and mental health in leadership and offer a unique perspective on how leaders can better align with their authentic selves. Tevi's Proxy Method focuses on energy-level self-analysis, helping individuals trace trauma back to its roots, allowing for deep healing and personal growth. He also shares the story of working with his wife through her traumatic experiences and cancer diagnosis, using the Proxy Method to bring emotional clarity and healing. 🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways: The Importance of Emotional and Mental Health: Tevi discusses how leaders can only be effective when they are mentally and emotionally healthy, emphasizing that taking care of oneself is essential to success. 🧠 Energy and Leadership: Leaders need to understand their energy transactions and ensure they're replenishing themselves to avoid burnout. The Proxy Method helps identify energy deficits and find ways to restore balance. ⚡ The Power of Authenticity: Tevi highlights the importance of reconnecting with one's original design to achieve personal and professional fulfillment. By living in alignment with their true selves, leaders can find the energy and purpose to thrive. 🔄 Seven Days to Happiness Blueprint: Tevi introduces his step-by-step approach to managing energy and maintaining happiness in both personal and professional life, which involves living life in seasons and celebrating accomplishments. 🌱 Leadership and Vulnerability: Leaders often carry the burden of responsibility without showing vulnerability. Tevi encourages leaders to take "pit stops" to reflect on their well-being and authenticity. 🛑 We talk about: 00:00 Intro 06:03 The Birth of The Proxy Method 11:00 Understanding the Proxy Method 19:03 Applying the Proxy Method in Leadership 24:05 Seven Days to Happiness 32:01 Challenges Leaders Face 44:18 Conclusion and Reflections #ProxyMethod #AuthenticLeadership #EnergyManagement #MentalHealthInLeadership #SevenDaysToHappiness #SelfAwareness #LeadershipWellness Connect with Tevi LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tevi-d-lawson-32a594234 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tevidlawson/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/QX7HQDTpSDe361Q7/?mibextid=qi2Omg YouTube: https://youtube.com/@proxymethod Membership: https://tevilawson.com/membership/ https://tevilawson.com/proxy-method-education/ Connect with me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolynswora/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolynswora/ Website: https://www.carolynswora.com/ Contact: media@carolynswora.com
In this episode of Evolve: A New Era of Leadership, I'm joined by Sam Smith, founder and former CEO of financial services group FinCap, now Cavendish Financial. Sam shares her incredible journey as the first female chief executive of a city stockbroking firm and provides deep insights into empathetic leadership, culture, and growth. Sam's leadership journey is marked by her focus on treating people fairly, which she considers a cornerstone of her business success. She has worked on over 200 transactions, including IPOs and secondary fundraisings, and is now a champion of entrepreneurship and inclusion in the UK, serving as a non-executive director on several boards. 🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways: Empathetic Leadership and Culture: Sam emphasizes the importance of creating a positive, inclusive culture and how it has been a key driver for her company's growth. She explores how treating both clients and employees with empathy fosters long-term success. 🤝 Entrepreneurial Journey: From age 23, Sam started out with no initial intention of being an entrepreneur but soon found herself leading a team, building a successful business, and scaling it with a focus on fairness and equity. 🌱 Authenticity in Leadership: Sam discusses the importance of being your authentic self in leadership, sharing how she has developed her leadership style over the years to align with her values. She also highlights the power of trusting your gut and fighting for your beliefs. 🧠 Scaling with Empathy: Sam provides insights into scaling a business by embedding a growth mindset into company culture, emphasizing that growth doesn't have to be chaotic but can thrive in an environment of support and fairness. 📈 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome: Sam talks about the challenges of imposter syndrome and how trusting her instincts helped her stay on course despite external pressures. 💪 We talk about: 00:00 Intro 05:02 Building a Unique Corporate Culture 10:29 The Importance of Self-Belief 19:26 Finding Clarity and Balance 24:11 Embedding Growth in Company Culture 25:37 Creating an Open Culture for Ideas 29:42 Personal Leadership Growth 32:12 The Importance of Self-Awareness 36:34 Final Thoughts and Advice for Leaders #EmpatheticLeadership #CultureMatters #AuthenticityInBusiness #ScalingWithPurpose #InclusionInBusiness Connect with Sam Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/SamsmithTF LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samsmith Connect with me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolynswora/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolynswora/ Website: https://www.carolynswora.com/ Contact: media@carolynswora.com
In this episode of Evolve: A New Era of Leadership, I'm joined by DeDe Halfhill, a distinguished retired Air Force colonel, leadership consultant, and coach. DeDe shares her remarkable journey through 25 years of military service, including her pivotal moments in leadership that shaped her career and personal growth. As a former senior advisor to the Department of Defense and a commander of Air Force bases, DeDe offers profound insights on authentic leadership, vulnerability, and personal transformation. DeDe's extensive military experience has been widely recognized, with Brené Brown describing her as one of her leadership heroes. Throughout the episode, DeDe talks candidly about her struggles and triumphs as a leader, including a transformational moment in Iraq when she realized the power of embracing her authentic self in leadership. This episode is filled with invaluable lessons on leadership, personal growth, and how to navigate the emotional complexities of leading in high-pressure environments. 🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways: Embracing Authenticity in Leadership: DeDe emphasizes the importance of being true to oneself as a leader and the impact it has on effectiveness and team morale. She shares her personal journey from trying to meet external expectations to fully embracing who she is as a leader. 🔥 The Emotional Component of Leadership: Drawing from her military experience, DeDe highlights how essential it is to address the emotional side of leadership. She reflects on the challenges of managing large teams in high-stress environments and how vulnerability and self-compassion play a critical role. 🌟 The Power of Curiosity: A major turning point in DeDe's leadership approach was learning the value of curiosity—asking questions and empowering others to find their own solutions. This shift, she explains, is key to unlocking the full potential of a team and fostering creativity and collaboration. 💡 Leading Through Complexity: DeDe discusses her time commanding Air Force bases and how leading in complex, high-stakes situations required her to develop new strategies and trust her team. She shares how she navigated these situations by creating a safe space for creativity and innovation. 🏆 We talk about: 00:00 Intro 01:21 DeDe's Military Background and Leadership Experience 06:21 The Turning Point in Iraq 20:40 Leadership at Barksdale Air Force Base 27:23 Leaving the Military: A Tough Decision 30:06 Leadership and Emotional Intelligence 31:39 The Hard Skills of Leadership 38:10 Combining Head, Heart, and Body in Leadership 45:44 Practical Tips for Emotional Management #AuthenticLeadership #MilitaryLeadership #CuriosityInLeadership #SelfCompassion #LeadershipDevelopment Connect with DeDe LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dedehalfhill/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dedehalfhill/ https://www.dedehalfhill.com/ Connect with me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolynswora/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolynswora/ Website: https://www.carolynswora.com/ Contact: media@carolynswora.com
In this episode of Evolve: A New Era of Leadership, we welcome Ginny Baillie, founder of Drum, a leadership development company in the UK. Ginny shares her journey in leadership coaching and development, explaining how her approach has evolved since 2017. Together, we explore the concept of "holding space" and why traditional leadership development programs often fail to deliver long-term results. Ginny provides insight into how leaders can foster deeper connection and trust within their teams by stepping away from prescriptive methods and embracing a more organic, space-holding approach to leadership. Ginny Baillie is a seasoned leadership development coach who founded Drum, a company dedicated to helping leaders and teams build deeper, more authentic connections. Since 2017, Drum has focused on creating open spaces for leaders to collaborate and engage in meaningful, supportive conversations without rigid frameworks. Ginny has worked with organizations worldwide, helping leaders shift from traditional, results-driven models to approaches that prioritize trust, collaboration, and emotional intelligence. 🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways: The Shortcomings of Traditional Leadership Development: Ginny discusses why many traditional leadership programs, despite significant investments, fail to create lasting change. She emphasizes the importance of fostering environments where leaders can genuinely learn from one another, rather than relying on structured, step-by-step approaches. The Power of Holding Space: The episode introduces the concept of "holding space," which Ginny describes as a crucial leadership skill. Rather than focusing on controlling conversations or delivering top-down solutions, effective leaders learn to create environments where teams can share openly, collaborate, and co-create solutions. Moving Away from Prescriptive Models: Ginny highlights her shift away from prescriptive leadership models—such as three-step frameworks or ten-point plans—that often fail to address the deeper, systemic challenges within organizations. Instead, she advocates for creating spaces where leaders and their teams can connect authentically, without the pressure of fitting into predetermined models. Collapsing Hierarchies: We discuss the importance of flattening organizational hierarchies to foster more open and honest communication. Leaders who are able to become learners alongside their teams are better positioned to create meaningful, lasting change. Creating Sustainable Leadership Practices: One of Ginny's core beliefs is that leadership development should be sustainable and replicable. She shares her experience with Drum, explaining how leaders who participate in her programs are equipped to continue the work independently, fostering a culture of self-sustainability within their organizations. We talk about: 00:00 Intro 02:38 Challenges in Traditional Leadership Programs 08:33 The Importance of Holding Space 09:27 Transitioning to New Leadership Models 13:44 Skills and Mindset for Modern Leaders 28:29 Challenges in Modern Leadership 38:43 Self-Regulation Techniques 43:33 Final Thoughts and Reflections #LeadershipDevelopment #HoldingSpace #CollaborationOverControl #AuthenticLeadership Connect with Ginny LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ginny-baillie-mcc-92658a11/ www.leaderdrums.com Connect with me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolynswora/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolynswora/ Website: https://www.carolynswora.com/ Contact: media@carolynswora.com
In this episode of Evolve: A New Era of Leadership, I'm joined by Merritt Minnemeyer, Founder and CEO of Master of One Coaching. Merritt shares her unique journey from her background in acting to becoming an international speaker and leadership coach. Together, we explore the critical role of consciousness in leadership, discussing how leaders can elevate their awareness and intentionality to make better choices and lead with purpose. Merritt is on a mission to eradicate executive mediocrity. As is the Founder & CEO of Master of One Coaching she employs extensive leadership experience and her entrepreneurial DNA to help Founders, Leaders, and Creatives exceed expectations, including their own. Having rebuilt her life after widowhood at 35, Merritt believes that conscious leaders are THE #1 solution in creating and sustaining a successful future, and that anything is possible when powerful people do right by themselves, those whom they serve, the planet, and one another. Merritt's deep understanding of human behavior, drawn from her early life experiences and professional training in theater, informs her approach to leadership. This conversation dives into how leaders can embody conscious leadership, manage their energy, and make intentional choices that align with their values. 🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways: The Power of Conscious Leadership: Merritt explains the importance of consciousness in leadership, emphasizing that awareness of choice is foundational to leading with intention and purpose. Transformative Life Experiences: Merritt shares a pivotal moment in her life—the loss of her husband to brain cancer—and how his final words, "choose well, choose wisely, choose love," became a guiding principle in her life and work. Integrating Acting into Leadership: Merritt discusses how her background in acting and theater provided her with valuable tools for understanding human behavior, which she now applies to leadership coaching. Energy Stewardship: Merritt highlights the importance of being stewards of our energy and intention, advocating for leaders to consciously manage their energy to prevent burnout and enhance their well-being. Coaching as a Path to Growth: The conversation explores how coaching can help leaders identify and overcome unconscious patterns, allowing them to lead more effectively and with greater self-awareness. We talk about: 00:00 Intro 04:18 Theater as a Training Ground for Leadership 10:51 Choosing Love and Conscious Leadership 17:30 The Importance of Coaching for Leaders 20:09 Energy and Intention in Leadership 28:21 The Stress of Productivity and Survival 29:26 The Impact of Stress on Our Bodies 32:39 Conscious Capitalism and Client Stories 35:03 The Power of Intention in Leadership #ConsciousLeadership #EvolveLeadership #LeadershipPodcast #IntentionalLiving #LeadershipCoaching Episode Resources: Book Recommendation: Conscious Capitalism by John Mackey and Raj Sisodia Connect with Merritt Instagram: www.instagram.com/masterofonecoaching LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/merritt-minnemeyer/ www.masterofonecoaching.com Connect with me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolynswora/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolynswora/ Website: https://www.carolynswora.com/ Contact: media@carolynswora.com
In this episode of Evolve: A New Era of Leadership, I'm joined by Pam Buchanan, the founder of Quantum Sense, to explore the concept of "soul health" and its relevance in the corporate world. Pam has had a remarkable 40-year career in corporate America, working in the financial and tech sectors, including serving as a director at NASDAQ. She was deeply involved in taking major companies like Tesla and Facebook public and had a front-row seat to some of the world's most innovative minds. Now, Pam is applying the lessons she learned in corporate leadership to a new focus: soul health. Pam has developed programs tailored for companies that are proven to enhance employee well-being, reduce anxiety, and boost creativity, ultimately fostering a more satisfying work-life balance. Pam explores how intentionally engaging your senses to make decisions about your environment can be used to benefit the soul from the outside in. Pam introduces us to Quantum Sense, where she is bridging corporate experience with soulful innovation. She talks about how our society has focused heavily on the physical and mental aspects of health, often neglecting the soul. Pam believes that understanding and nurturing our soul is the next frontier in both personal and organizational development. 🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways: Corporate Leadership & Soul Health: Pam reflects on her experiences in Silicon Valley and corporate America and how it shaped her understanding of leadership that integrates the soul. 🧠 Transitioning from 3D to 5D Living: The discussion dives into moving beyond a purely physical and mental understanding of life to embrace a more energetic, soul-centered approach. 🌟 The Intersection of Ego and Essence: We discuss how ego and soul often compete for dominance and how developing awareness of both is essential for evolving as a leader. 🧘♀️ Trusting Intuition Over Logic: Pam emphasizes the importance of tuning into your "knowing" rather than solely relying on the mind's logical processes in decision-making. 🌿 Implementing Soul Health in Organizations: Pam candidly shares the challenges and opportunities she faces in bringing the concept of soul health to the corporate world, where skepticism still exists. 🌍 We talk about: 00:00 Intro 07:24 Transition to Soul Health 10:37 Founding QuantumSense 16:15 Understanding Soul Health 21:01 Living in a 5D World 27:50 Polyvagal Theory and Cellular Intelligence 30:42 Anticipating a Soul-Driven Future 33:14 Challenges of Introducing Soul Health in Corporations 40:19 Personal Routines for Grounding and Connection 42:22 Final Thoughts #SoulHealth #Leadership #CorporateWellness #QuantumSense #5DLiving Connect with Pam Quantum Sense LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thequantumsense/ Pam's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pam-buchanan/ https://thequantumsense.com/ Connect with me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolynswora/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolynswora/ Website: https://www.carolynswora.com/ Contact: media@carolynswora.com
In this episode of Evolve: A New Era of Leadership, I'm joined by Ajay Malik, a prominent leader in the field of artificial intelligence. Ajay, who has previously held leadership roles at Google, Hewlett-Packard, Cisco, and Motorola, now leads Studio X, an enterprise AI platform designed to help businesses integrate AI into their operations. Throughout the conversation, Ajay provides valuable insights into the impact of AI on leadership and organizational performance, emphasizing the importance of embracing AI as a tool to enhance human capabilities rather than replace them. Ajay shares his experiences and thoughts on how AI has evolved to become an integral part of our daily lives and work environments. He explains the significance of AI in automating repetitive tasks, improving decision-making processes, and ultimately, transforming the way businesses operate. Ajay also addresses the challenges leaders face in this new AI-driven landscape, including the need to safeguard data privacy and the ethical considerations surrounding AI use. 🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways: AI's Integration into Everyday Business: Ajay explains how AI is already embedded in many aspects of business operations and is set to become even more pervasive. From inventory control to customer service, AI is making processes more efficient and effective. The Democratization of Knowledge: AI has leveled the playing field by making knowledge and information more accessible. This has profound implications for leadership, as it challenges the traditional notion that knowledge alone is power. Challenges for Leaders in the AI Era: Ajay highlights three primary challenges for leaders: the erosion of skill as a differentiator, the risk of data leaks, and increased competition as AI tools become widely available. The Human Element: Despite AI's capabilities, Ajay emphasizes that the human touch—problem-solving, creativity, and emotional intelligence—remains crucial. Leaders must focus on what AI cannot do, such as understanding the nuanced needs of customers and employees. AI as an Assistant, Not a Replacement: Ajay advocates for using AI to enhance, not replace, human work. He discusses how AI can take over mundane tasks, allowing employees to focus on more strategic and creative work. Preparing for the Future: Ajay offers practical advice for leaders on how to start incorporating AI into their organizations, stressing the importance of starting small and ensuring data privacy and ethical use. We talk about: 00:00 Intro 01:30 The Impact of AI on Business and Leadership 04:43 AI's Role in Everyday Life 07:50 Challenges Leaders Face with AI 14:38 Implementing AI in the Workplace 18:52 AI as a Tool for Efficiency 25:56 AI's Impact on Social and Economic Gaps 27:08 Leaders' Emotional and Psychological Adaptation to AI 28:25 Human Value in an AI-Driven World 32:44 Future of Remote Work and AI Assistants 39:08 Ethical Considerations and Privacy in AI 42:35 Final Thoughts and Practical Advice for Leaders #AILeadership #ArtificialIntelligence #FutureOfWork #LeadershipDevelopment #AIRevolution #BusinessInnovation #TechnologyInBusiness #EvolvePodcast #AjayMalik #StudioX Connect with Ajay LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/artofai/ https://studiox.secomind.ai/ Connect with me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolynswora/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolynswora/ Website: https://www.carolynswora.com/ Contact: media@carolynswora.com
In this episode of Evolve: A New Era of Leadership, I'm joined by Lori Saitz. Lori shares her journey and profound insights on integrating meditation and gratitude into workplace wellness strategies. Lori Saitz is the founder and CEO of Zen Rabbit and host of the podcast "Fine is a 4-Letter Word." As the CEO of a forward-thinking health and wellness company, she is dedicated to guiding corporations toward nurturing healthier, more productive work environments. With a comprehensive background in wellness strategies and employee engagement, her mission is to help businesses implement programs that not only improve the well-being of their teams but also contribute to their bottom line through increased performance and reduced absenteeism. At the time of this writing - Lori is currently living a nomad life while cat-sitting in states across the southeast U.S. You can often find her in her sanctuary, aka the weight room at the gym. She also loves cupcakes, Thai food, and classic rock music. 🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways: The Power of Meditation: Lori emphasizes the importance of meditation in maintaining focus, creativity, and overall mental health. She shares her personal journey with meditation and how it has been a cornerstone of her wellbeing. Gratitude in the Workplace: Exploring the scientific benefits of gratitude, Lori provides practical techniques for incorporating gratitude practices into daily routines, boosting productivity and fostering a positive work environment. Customized Meditations: Lori offers insights into how personalized meditations can be a powerful tool for individuals, enhancing their focus and emotional well-being. Wellbeing and Productivity: The discussion highlights the direct correlation between personal wellbeing and professional productivity, stressing the need for leaders to adopt and promote wellness practices. We talk about: 00:00 Intro 02:32 Lori's Journey to Zen Rabbit 06:38 Wellbeing and Productivity in the Workplace 10:11 The Power of Gratitude 17:27 Integrating Meditation and Gratitude 22:30 Debunking Meditation Myths 26:04 The Power of Gratitude in Meditation 36:46 Personal Growth Through Nomadic Living 38:55 Daily Meditation Practices #ZenRabbit #WorkplaceWellness #Meditation #Gratitude #Leadership Connect with Lori Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zen_rabbit/ Twitter: https://x.com/zenrabbit Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LoriSaitz/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/newsletters/workplace-zen-6903503194832658432/ / https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorisaitz/ https://zenrabbit.com/ Free 6-minute gratitude meditation: https://zenrabbit.com/gratitude-meditation/ Connect with me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolynswora/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolynswora/ Website: https://www.carolynswora.com/ Contact: media@carolynswora.com
In this episode of Evolve: A New Era of Leadership, I'm joined by Bree Fram and Liz Cavallaro, co-authors of the recently published book "Forging Queer Leaders: How the LGBTQIA+ Community Creates Impact from Adversity." Bree and Liz share their profound insights on the unique leadership qualities fostered within the LGBTQIA+ community. Bree Fram is an author, podcaster, keynote speaker, and active duty colonel and astronautical engineer in the United States Space Force. She co-leads the Department of the Air Force LGBTQ+ Initiatives Team, dedicated to eliminating barriers to LGBTQ+ military service in the Air and Space Force. Liz Cavallaro is an Executive Coach, Adult Development Scholar, Educator, and Leader Development Practitioner. She is currently a tenured Associate Professor of Leader Development at the U.S. Naval War College (USNWC), where she conducts research, builds curriculum, and teaches courses in the College of Leadership & Ethics. Together, Bree and Liz explore the intersection of personal adversity and leadership growth in their book, providing a comprehensive look at how the challenges faced by the LGBTQIA+ community can lead to exceptional leadership qualities. 🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways: The Power of Adversity: Bree and Liz discuss how the experiences of adversity within the LGBTQIA+ community forge stronger, more resilient leaders. They emphasize the transformative power of facing and overcoming discrimination and stigma. 💪🌈 Vertical Development: Liz explains the concept of vertical development, where individuals expand their cognitive and emotional capacities through challenging experiences, leading to more sophisticated and resilient leadership. 📈🧠 Authenticity in Leadership: Bree shares her personal journey of embracing her authentic self, highlighting how authenticity leads to deeper connections and more effective leadership. 🌟💬 Inclusive Leadership: The conversation delves into practical strategies for creating inclusive environments in the workplace, emphasizing the importance of allyship and structural support for marginalized communities. 🤝🏳️🌈 Joy in Authenticity: Bree and Liz highlight the joy that comes from living authentically and the importance of fostering environments where everyone can bring their true selves to work. 😊🌼 Allyship and Support: The episode includes powerful stories of allyship and the positive impact of having supportive friends and colleagues during challenging times. 🤗👫 We talk about: 00:00 Intro 03:57 The Birth of 'Forging Queer Leaders' 07:28 Exploring the Unique Challenges and Strengths of LGBTQ Leaders 14:18 The Concept of Vertical Development 25:25 The Role of Allyship and Inclusivity 33:37 Inspiration and Contribution 35:54 Moments That Matter: Creating Inclusive Environments 38:49 Practical Tips for Inclusivity 41:35 The Joy of Authenticity 44:15 Final Thoughts and Reflections #ForgingQueerLeaders #AuthenticLeadership #VerticalDevelopment #InclusiveWorkplaces #LGBTQLeadership Connect with Liz and Bree Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/lizcav LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizcavallaro/ https://www.breefram.com/ Website: www.forgedinfire.org https://www.forgedinfire.org/podcast.html https://www.forgedinfire.org/book.html Connect with me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolynswora/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolynswora/ Website: https://www.carolynswora.com/ Contact: media@carolynswora.com
In this episode of Evolve: A New Era of Leadership, I'm joined by Joel Onyshuk, host of the Frontline Leadership Podcast. Joel shares his profound insights on the human-centered approach to leadership, emphasizing the importance of authenticity and vulnerability in building strong connections within teams. With extensive experience in leadership roles, particularly in the manufacturing tech sector, Joel has witnessed firsthand the critical role of leaders at every organizational level. His podcast aims to connect leaders from diverse industries to share their challenges and successes, fostering a culture of continuous learning and growth. Joel has a 19-year career in sales and sales leadership and is passionate about creating high-performance teams. Currently, he is the SVP of Sales at Atana, Inc., where he helps companies radically improve their culture with transformative e-learning and bleeding-edge data analytics. Prior to Atana, Joel helped scale QAD Redzone, the #1 connected workforce solution in manufacturing, from $7M ARR to a globally recognized SaaS unicorn, and co-founded a SaaS startup in the service industry with three former C-suite executives from Aramark Corporation. Joel's leadership philosophy centers on transitioning from traditional management to facilitation, as he believes that leaders should focus on empowering their teams to solve problems collectively. This approach, according to Joel, not only fosters innovation but also enhances team morale and engagement. He emphasizes the importance of creating safe spaces where team members feel comfortable sharing their authentic selves, which in turn drives performance and satisfaction. Joel's extensive experience and passion for human-centered leadership offer listeners valuable perspectives on navigating the complexities of modern leadership. 🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways: The Value of Human-Centered Leadership: Joel discusses the significance of recognizing and embracing the humanity of leaders and team members alike, highlighting the importance of seeing beyond titles and roles to connect on a deeper level. 🤝 Embracing Vulnerability: Exploring Joel's journey toward understanding the power of vulnerability in leadership, including the pivotal moments that led him to value transparency and emotional openness. 💬 Facilitation as a Critical Skill: Joel emphasizes the evolving importance of facilitation over traditional leadership and management roles. He discusses how leaders must move people from one existing place to a new reality, empowering and encouraging them along the way. 🗝️ Navigating Uncertainty with AI: Joel shares his thoughts on leading through uncertainty and ambiguity, particularly in the context of the burgeoning capabilities of AI. He explores how AI can take on transactional tasks, allowing leaders to focus on creating transformational experiences. 🌫️🤖 Creating Safe Spaces: Insights into Joel's techniques for fostering environments where team members feel comfortable sharing their true selves, which in turn drives engagement and performance. 🛡️ The Future of Work: Joel and Carolyn discuss the future of work in the context of AI's impact, including reimagining roles and leveraging AI for training and problem-solving. 🔮 We talk about: 00:00 Intro 02:47 The Purpose Behind the Frontline Leadership Podcast 10:15 The Power of Vulnerability in Leadership 21:47 Navigating Discomfort and Uncertainty 26:13 The Importance of Facilitation in Leadership 28:50 AI's Role in Leadership and Work 35:27 The Future of Self-Awareness in Leadership 38:55 The Power of Mentorship #HumanCenteredLeadership #AuthenticLeadership #Vulnerability #LeadershipInUncertainty #AIInLeadership #TransformationalExperiences Connect with Joel LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/joelonyshuk Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/frontlineindustrypodcast/ Website: www.wewantimpact.com / www.frontlineindustrypodcast.com Connect with me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolynswora/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolynswora/ Website: https://www.carolynswora.com/ Contact: media@carolynswora.com
In this episode of Evolve: A New Era of Leadership, I am joined by Vicky Smith, a senior consultant at Working Well in the UK. We delve into the vital topics of wellness and psychological safety in the workplace, exploring what leaders can do to create environments where employees can truly thrive. Vicky Smith, Senior Consultant at WorkingWell, is passionate about sharing her knowledge and has more than 20 years of consulting, coaching, facilitation and training experience in locations across the globe. She holds an MSc in Organisation Development and Consultancy, an MSc in Psychology and an MSc in Applied Health and Exercise. She is working through a PhD, researching psychological safety in organizations, and is also a qualified NLP trainer, psychotherapist, and executive coach. 🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways: The Importance of Psychological Safety: Vicky discusses the concept of psychological safety, emphasizing the need for trust within teams and the challenges faced when extending this trust outside the immediate team environment. Building Trust and Authenticity: Insights into practical strategies for fostering trust and authenticity among team members, and the role leaders play in setting the tone for open, honest communication. Overcoming Workplace Pressure: The conversation highlights the intense pressure in modern workplaces, exacerbated by the pandemic, and how this impacts employee well-being and organizational culture. Creating Supportive Systems: Vicky explains the necessity of systemic changes within organizations to support psychological safety, rather than placing the burden solely on individuals to become more resilient. Practical Steps for Leaders: Vicky shares practical models and steps from her book, "Brave New Leader," to help leaders create psychologically safe environments and enhance team performance. We talk about: 00:00 Intro 04:17 Understanding Psychological Safety 07:43 Building Trust and Team Dynamics 11:57 The Impact of Workplace Pressure 23:12 Navigating Power Dynamics in Teams 34:43 The Five C's of Psychological Safety 36:33 Practical Examples and Final Thoughts 38:00 Vicki's Book and Final Questions #PsychologicalSafety #Leadership #Wellbeing #TrustInTheWorkplace #BraveNewLeader Connect with Vicky LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vickysmith121/ Website: https://www.workingwell.co.uk/ Connect with me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolynswora/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolynswora/ Website: https://www.carolynswora.com/ Contact: media@carolynswora.com
How can leaders effectively support their employees through the profound and often challenging experiences of grief? In this episode, Sarah Hines joins me in exploring how organizations can better handle grief in the workplace and the transformative impact it can have on both employees and leaders. Sarah Hines has spent over two decades serving those at the end of life and supporting many in their journey with grief. Her compassionate approach is built upon three fundamental beliefs: grief is how we honour what we love, that death belongs in the hands of love, and that community care is imperative for humanity to thrive. She has integrated her life experience with multiple facets of learnings, certifications and training including Grief Coaching, Deathcaring, Trauma & Mental Health Certifications, IFS Therapy and Somatic Practitioner Training, and over 20 years as a corporate consultant. In 2019, she founded Grief Advocacy. A National grief care organization that supports leaders and their teams through grief and loss. Sarah comes to us with one mission to help us cultivate a relationship with our grief so that we can live inside our passion, purpose and legacy as compassionate leaders. 🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways: The Intersection of Sales and Grief Work: Sarah discusses her journey from a corporate sales career to founding griefadvocacy.com, merging her professional skills with her passion for grief support. Grief Literacy and Inclusivity: The importance of developing grief literacy in leadership and creating inclusive environments where employees feel supported during their grief experiences. Empathy vs. Compassion in Leadership: Sarah emphasizes the distinction between empathy and compassion, advocating for leaders to hold space for their team's emotions without absorbing the energy, thus fostering a supportive yet sustainable leadership approach. Actionable Leadership Strategies: Practical advice for leaders on how to manage their own grief while leading, including setting boundaries, redistributing tasks, and creating a culture of trust and belonging. Creating Safe Spaces: Techniques for leaders to create safe spaces for employees to express their grief, including recording meetings and sending supportive messages to those on bereavement leave. Ambiguous and Anticipatory Grief: Discussion on the nuanced forms of grief, such as ambiguous loss and anticipatory grief, and how they manifest in both personal and professional settings. Compassionate Leadership Practices: The importance of leaders practicing self-care, leaning back to witness rather than fix problems, and fostering an environment where emotions are acknowledged and respected. We talk about: 00:00 Intro 02:53 The Birth of Grief Advocacy 05:58 Impact of COVID-19 on Grief Advocacy 10:50 Defining and Understanding Grief 23:18 The Impact of Societal Stress on Mental Health 38:13 Leadership and Self-Awareness 39:47 Daily Routines and Emotional Regulation 44:12 Final Thoughts and Reflections #GriefInTheWorkplace #CompassionateLeadership #GriefLiteracy #SupportiveLeadership #EmbracingVulnerability Connect with Sarah LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahahines TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sarahahines Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/griefadvocacy Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/griefadvocacy Website: www.griefadvocacy.com Connect with me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolynswora/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolynswora/ Website: https://www.carolynswora.com/ Contact: media@carolynswora.com
As leaders, are we truly the CEO of our own boardroom, or are we letting external and internal forces dictate our behavior? This profound question formed the crux of a recent conversation with Dana Skaggs who has worked with many leaders in her practice, Dana Skaggs is a licensed psychotherapist known as "The Queen of Boundaries" with 16 years of experience in private practice, specializing in anxiety and trauma work. She serves as a board member for the Intermountain Psychological Association and frequently appears as a guest on ABC-affiliate WJHL Daytime Tri-Cities, where she discusses the emotional aspects of everyday problems. Dana has contributed to the article "Second Opinions: How You Can Leverage Mindset to Change Behaviour" in the journal "A Plus" from the Hong Kong Institute of Certified Public Accountants and is a regular contributor to "The Maverick Paradox Magazine." She also hosts the podcast "Phoenix and Flame," which is globally ranked in the top 5%, and provides online Boundary courses and coaching. 🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways: Understanding Boundaries: Dana emphasizes that boundaries are crucial for self-management and effective leadership. They help individuals take responsibility for their own thoughts, feelings, and actions while allowing others to do the same. 📏 People-Pleasing: Dana discusses the common issue of people-pleasing and how it often leads to unnecessary stress and emotional turmoil. She highlights the importance of recognizing and stepping away from this behavior. 🚫 The Boardroom Analogy: Dana introduces the concept of the internal boardroom, where different parts of oneself are acknowledged and managed by the 'CEO' part, helping maintain control during challenging interactions. 🏢 The Hook Visualization: She provides a visualization technique to avoid getting 'hooked' by provocative comments or situations, maintaining emotional composure and focus. 🎣 Handling Hard Conversations: Dana shares strategies for approaching difficult conversations with calm and clarity, ensuring they are productive and respectful. 🗣️ The Boomerang Effect: She explains the 'boomerang' effect of unresolved issues that return as intrusive thoughts and how addressing them directly can prevent emotional outbursts and build trust. 🪃 Trust and Boundaries: The conversation ties into Brene Brown's BRAVING trust framework, emphasizing how boundaries are fundamental to building trust in leadership and teamwork. 🤝 We talk about: 00:00 Intro 02:42 Understanding Boundaries at Work 04:05 The Concept of People Pleasing 07:52 Managing Emotional Responses 10:25 The Boardroom Technique 18:53 Practical Steps for Setting Boundaries 21:38 Understanding Emotional Triggers 25:13 The Boomerang Effect 27:35 Building Trust Through Boundaries #Boundaries #Leadership #Trust #EmotionalIntelligence Connect with Dana LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danabskaggs/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/dana.b.skaggs/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/dana.b.skaggs Website: https://danaskaggs.com Enter "100off" in the coupon section of her 8-week group course to get $100 off the price! Connect with me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolynswora/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolynswora/ Website: https://www.carolynswora.com/ Contact: media@carolynswora.com
In this episode of Evolve, we dive deep into the unconventional yet profoundly impactful realm of polyvagal theory and felt sense with renowned psychotherapist Jan Winhall. Leaders might wonder what insights a seasoned trauma and addiction therapist could offer to the leadership arena, but Jan bridges the gap between mental health and effective leadership. By exploring how our physiological states influence decision-making and interpersonal relationships, Jan provides leaders with innovative tools to foster a more resilient, empathetic, and productive work environment. Tune in to discover how understanding and applying the principles of polyvagal theory and felt sense can revolutionize your leadership approach and elevate your team's performance. Jan Winhall, based in Toronto, is an educational partner and course developer with the Polyvagal Institute and an adjunct lecturer at the University of Toronto. She offers a training program based on her book, "Treating Trauma and Addiction with the Felt Sense Polyvagal Model." Jan's work integrates polyvagal theory and felt sense, providing a practical approach to understanding and enhancing our physiological and psychological safety. 🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways: Polyvagal Theory Explained: Jan provides insight about polyvagal theory, describing it as the science of safety, and explains how understanding this can help leaders create safer, more supportive environments. 🌱 Felt Sense Model: Jan introduces the felt sense model, a way to access and understand the information our bodies provide, which is crucial for effective decision-making and leadership. 🌟 Leadership and Safety: The conversation highlights the importance of physiological safety in leadership, emphasizing that true safety encompasses both psychological and physiological aspects. 🛡️ Practical Applications: Jan shares practical steps for leaders to incorporate these concepts into their daily practices, enhancing both their well-being and the well-being of their teams. 🧘♂️ We talk about: 00:00 Intro 02:07 Meet Jan Winhall: Author and Psychotherapist 03:09 Understanding Felt Sense and Leadership 06:38 The Role of the Vagus Nerve 14:21 Polyvagal Theory in the Workplace 20:33 Creating Safe and Supportive Environments 28:00 Focusing Techniques for Leaders 29:28 Identifying and Addressing Internal Issues 30:06 Exploring Physical Sensations and Emotions 30:40 The Power of Co-Regulation 31:16 Resonating with Felt Sense 40:13 Understanding the Intervening Variable 41:22 Practical Applications and Final Thoughts 44:37 Closing Remarks and Reflections 🌈 Closing Thoughts: This episode with Jan Winhall offers an exploration of polyvagal theory and felt sense, providing valuable insights for leaders seeking to create safer and more effective work environments. Jan's expertise and practical advice encourages leaders to embrace the wisdom of their bodies and foster a culture of safety and support within their organizations. #PolyvagalTheory #FeltSense #Leadership #PhysiologicalSafety #TraumaInformedLeadership #EvolveLeadership Connect with Jan LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jan-winhall-6a0a2314/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janwinhall/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/janwinhallcommunity Website: https://janwinhall.com/ YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@JanWinhall Connect with me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolynswora/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolynswora/ Website: https://www.carolynswora.com/ Contact: media@carolynswora.com
In this episode of Evolve: A New Era of Leadership, I'm joined by Michael Allison, an educational partner with the Polyvagal Instituteory. Michael shares his profound insights on the application of polyvagal theory to enhance leadership and performance, iMichael's unique approach helps leaders and individuals achieve peak performance by consciously controlling their physiology. With extensive experience working with athletes and business leaders, Michael's insights are invaluable for anyone looking to elevate their performance and leadership effectiveness. As mentioned, Michael is an educational partner with Polyvagal Institute and Stephen W. Porges, Ph.D. (originator of Polyvagal Theory) leading the development and delivery of a Polyvagal-informed Certificate for Health, Wellness & Performance Coaches accredited by the National Board for Health & Wellness Coaches. His unique application of Polyvagal Theory to performance endorsed by Dr. Porges – The Play Zone – provides a paradigm shifting methodology to optimize control of our performance through skillful and conscious control of our physiology. Michael consults with professional, collegiate and high performing coaches, teams, organizations, athletes and performers in a variety of disciplines, as well as schools, executive coaches, business leaders and corporate teams. He is a Health & Performance Coach, Personal Trainer, Medical Exercise Specialist, Post Rehab Specialist and Certified Oxygen Advantage Breathwork Instructor, and the author of SMARTER Coaching, a certificated behavior change course accredited by the American Council on Exercise. In addition, Michael is a certificated ILS Safe & Sound Provider / Remote Provider and Focus System Training Provider. 🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways: Understanding Physiology: Michael explains the crucial role of physiology in influencing behavior and performance. He emphasizes how our internal state impacts our interactions and effectiveness as leaders. 🧠💪 The Play Zone: Introducing the concept of the "play zone," Michael describes how achieving a state of play can enhance creativity, collaboration, and overall performance. 🎮🌟 Polyvagal Theory in Practice: Insights into how polyvagal theory can be applied in both athletic and corporate settings to improve performance through better regulation of the nervous system. 🏃♂️🏢 Importance of Safety: Michael discusses the significance of creating an environment of physiological and psychological safety to foster trust, belonging, and optimal performance. 🛡️🤝 Navigating Different States: An exploration of the performance hierarchy, detailing the predictable physiological states we go through and how to manage them effectively. 🔄🧘♂️ We talk about: 00:00 Intro 02:04 Understanding Physiology and Performance 06:15 The Role of Physiology in Leadership and Business 15:43 Navigating Physiological States in High-Stress Situations 24:25 Recognizing and Managing Physiological Responses 29:32 Introduction to Neuroception 30:03 Understanding Neuroception 33:12 The Role of Neuroception in Leadership 33:54 Building Awareness and Skills 37:12 Practical Applications for Leaders 39:06 The Importance of Psychological and Physiological Safety 43:06 Strategies for Team Resilience 55:25 Closing Thoughts and Resources 🌈 Closing Thoughts: This episode with Michael Allison provides a deep dive into the transformative power of polyvagal theory and its application in leadership and performance. Michael's insights offer a fresh perspective on how to harness our physiology to become more effective leaders and individuals. #PolyvagalTheory #Leadership #Performance #Physiology #PlayZone Connect with Michael LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-allison-smarter/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/playzonepro/ Blog: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/the-pressure-paradox www.theplayzone.com Connect with me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolynswora/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolynswora/ Website: https://www.carolynswora.com/ Contact: media@carolynswora.com
In this episode of Evolve: A New Era of Leadership, I'm joined by Elena Armijo, a former opera singer turned executive coach. Elena shares her profound insights on performance, leadership, and the importance of somatic awareness in high-stakes environments. Elena's journey from traveling the world as an opera singer to becoming a leadership coach is inspiring. She discusses how her background in music has given her a unique foundation for her current work, emphasizing the discipline, rigor, and deep connection with the body that singing required. These skills have seamlessly transitioned into her coaching practice, where she helps high performers and leaders navigate their professional journeys with authenticity and awareness. Elena is not only an accomplished singer but also a passionate advocate for bringing somatic awareness into leadership. Through her coaching, she guides leaders to reconnect with their bodies, fostering intuition and presence in high-pressure situations. Her work emphasizes the importance of preparation, not just for performances but for leadership roles as well. Elena Armijo, Master Certified Coach (MCC), Founder and CEO of The C-Suite Collective, and Certified Dare to Lead™ Facilitator has a strong track record of supporting clients and organizations in creating impact, culture shifts and leadership development. Her unique ability to identify common patterns while generating new awareness and re-invention leaves clients with the ability to make stronger choices, clearer decisions and powerful steps toward their desired outcomes. Elena offers in-depth and customized executive programs for high performers who are at the top of their respective fields – from CEOs of leading businesses to professional athletes, policy-focused individuals, entertainers, and artists, and more. Partnering with Elena, these clients have created and achieved the professional and personal impact in the world they once perceived unattainable. As a former leader and trainer with Accomplishment Coaching© and CHIEF Core Guide Facilitator, Elena continues to expand her work with teams across the world. Elena also hosts the podcast The Collective Corner. She was inspired to become an Executive and Leadership Coach through her work as a professional opera singer. Drawn to work with ambitious top performers like herself, she realized she could bring unique insight to the coaching business after spending many years "on the other side of the table." Elena's ten-year career in opera spanned across the globe and included work with many prestigious opera companies as well as performances at Lincoln Center and Carnegie Hall. Elena holds a B.M. of Music Education from New Mexico State University and an M.M. in Vocal Performance from the University of Washington. 🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways: The Role of Performance in Leadership: Elena explores the parallels between performing on stage and leading in the boardroom, highlighting the common traits of discipline, preparation, and presence. 🎭 Somatic Awareness in Leadership: Elena delves into the concept of somatic awareness, explaining how being in tune with one's body can enhance leadership effectiveness and decision-making. 🧠 Navigating Fear: Insights into how Elena has made friends with fear, using it as an alert system rather than letting it drive her actions, both in her singing career and in her coaching practice. 🔥 Building and Repairing Containers: The importance of creating and maintaining a safe, inclusive space for dialogue and growth, and having a process for repairing when agreements are broken. 🛠️ Belonging vs. Fitting In: Elena discusses the difference between these concepts and the impact of creating a culture of true belonging in organizations. 🌍 Challenges of Modern Leadership: The conversation touches on the evolving nature of leadership and the heightened need for connection and community in today's world. 📚 We talk about: 00:00 Intro 03:11 Elena's Musical Journey and Early Influences 04:29 Transitioning from Opera to Coaching 06:16 The Importance of Somatic Awareness in Leadership 10:12 Challenges and Realizations in Elena's Career 14:48 Creating a Culture of Belonging 18:45 The Coaching Process and Organizational Impact 25:23 Building Effective Containers for Leadership 27:32 Exploring the Repair Process 28:49 Real-Life Examples of Repair 32:40 Challenges in Repair Conversations 36:12 Supporting Leaders Through Turbulent Times 40:24 Embracing Fear in Performance 42:16 Final Thoughts and Reflections 🌈 Closing Thoughts: This episode with Elena Armijo provides a thought-provoking exploration of the intersections between performance, leadership, and somatic awareness. Elena's insights challenge conventional leadership practices and offer a fresh perspective on cultivating a leadership style that is both authentic and deeply connected to one's body. Her journey from opera singer to executive coach is a testament to the transformative power of embracing one's full potential. We encourage listeners to reflect on their own leadership journeys, embrace vulnerability, and consider how somatic awareness can enhance their effectiveness and well-being. #SomaticLeadership #AuthenticLeadership #Performance #Leadership #Belonging #Trust #Fear Connect with Elena LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elena-armijo/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@elenaarmijo Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elena.armijo/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/coachingwithelena/ www.ElenaArmijo.com www.TheC-SuiteCollective.com https://www.elenaarmijopodcast.com/ Connect with me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolynswora/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolynswora/ Website: https://www.carolynswora.com/ Contact: media@carolynswora.com
In this episode of Evolve: A New Era of Leadership, I'm joined by Blaire Palmer, author of "Punks in Suits." Blaire shares her profound insights on bringing authenticity and disruption to leadership. Blaire's book, "Punks in Suits," challenges traditional leadership models and calls for a revolution in how we utilize human talent, akin to the industrial revolution's impact. She advocates for abandoning the industrial-age mindset that treats humans as second-rate machines and encourages leaders to trust and unleash the full potential of their teams. Blaire Palmer is a former BBC journalist turned leadership consultant and keynote speaker, who has worked on flagship Radio 4 programmes like Today and Woman's Hour. For the past 24 years, Blaire has worked with organizations helping to drive real change in their businesses and create places where people can come and do their best work. Currently, Blaire speaks internationally at conferences and events, calling on audiences of senior leaders to rethink what leadership means in the modern era. 🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways: The Need for Disruption: Blaire discusses the necessity of challenging the status quo and embracing disruption to drive meaningful change in leadership and organizational cultures. 🔄 Reconnecting with Authenticity: Exploring Blaire's philosophy on the crucial role of authenticity and vulnerability in effective leadership, guiding leaders to reconnect with their inner "punk." 🧠 Trusting Human Potential: Insights into Blaire's advocacy for trusting and empowering individuals, drawing inspiration from her experience with home-educating her daughter. 🔥 Redefining Leadership: The conversation dives into the distinction between management and leadership, emphasizing the need for leaders to address systemic root causes rather than merely managing symptoms. 📚 Business as a Force for Good: Blaire introduces the concept of businesses being a positive force in the world, standing for ethical principles and earning trust through competence and integrity. 🌍 Finding Work-Life Balance: Blaire shares a powerful moment of self-awareness, realizing that true balance lies in a balanced mind rather than external circumstances. 💼 We talk about: 00:00 Intro 03:28 The Concept of 'Punks in Suits' 07:41 Impact of the Pandemic on Leadership 08:20 Revolutionizing Human Talent Utilization 10:39 Challenges in Modern Leadership 18:28 Trust and Authority in Leadership 25:30 Reconnecting Through Music and Memories 26:16 Challenges of Maintaining Connection 28:06 The Importance of Trust in Leadership 29:59 Trusting Others and Reducing Limits 31:55 Home Education and Trusting Children 36:19 Impact of Education on the Workforce 37:55 Business as a Force for Good 40:55 Personal Reflections and Practices 45:02 The Power of Music and Final Thoughts 🌈 Closing Thoughts: This episode with Blaire Palmer provides a thought-provoking exploration of authentic, purpose-driven leadership and the transformative power of disruption. Blaire's insights challenge conventional thinking and offer a fresh perspective on cultivating leadership that unleashes human potential and creates positive global impact. We encourage listeners to reflect on their own leadership journeys, embrace vulnerability, and consider how embracing disruption can ignite positive change within their organizations and communities. #PunksInSuits #AuthenticLeadership #TrustingHumanPotential #Disruption #BusinessImpact Connect with Blaire LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/blairepalmer That People Thing - https://www.thatpeoplething.com/ A Brilliant Gamble - https://www.abrilliantgamble.com New book: Punks in Suits: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Punks-Suits-lead-workplace-reformation/dp/1781338469 Connect with me Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/carolynswora/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolynswora/ Website: https://www.carolynswora.com/ Contact: media@carolynswora.com