We’re excited to welcome back David Cohen—globally recognized thought leader, executive coach, and author of Selecting the Best: Fostering a Workforce Driven by Values for Lasting Success. With over 30 years of experience advising leaders and organizations on five continents, David brings a clear message: skills may get you hired, but values determine whether you (and your organization) thrive.From his early consulting days to his latest book, David explains why authentic values alignment—not just technical expertise—is the key to building resilient, high-performing teams.🔑 4 Key Takeaways You Won’t Want to Miss:03:00 — Relationships Drive EverythingDavid shares how a single relationship—built over 30 years ago—opened doors, sustained his career, and underscores why lasting success is built on trust, respect, and connection.08:00 — Hire for Values, Not Just SkillsKnowledge and skills are teachable, but values-driven behavior determines whether someone will fit, flourish, and stay. Hiring without considering values is one of the fastest paths to disengagement and turnover.12:00 — The Integrity TrapWhy “integrity” isn’t really a value—it’s the sum total of living your values. When organizations plaster it on walls but don’t live it, cynicism and distrust follow.17:00 — How to Ask Better Interview QuestionsDavid explains why ambiguous, behavioral questions (“Tell me about a time…”) reveal far more than canned Q&A—and how silence can be a powerful tool in uncovering authentic stories.💡 This Episode Is for:Leaders, recruiters, HR professionals, and job seekers who want to understand how values shape hiring, retention, and long-term success.🔗 Where to Learn More:Selecting the Best — Available now on AmazonSAGltd.com — David’s consulting firmConnect with David Cohen (David S. Cohen) on LinkedIn
This week, Morag is joined by Dr. Rosie Ward—CEO of Salveo Partners, award-winning author and podcast host, and fierce advocate for rehumanizing workplaces. Rosie’s new book, Future Proofing Leadership: Navigating Change and Disruption to Thrive in an Uncertain World, explores how to upgrade our “faulty programs,” break free from self-protective patterns, and lead with courage and connection.With humor, candor, and science-backed insights, Rosie reveals why embracing our messy humanity is the key to thriving in times of disruption.🔑 4 Key Takeaways You Won’t Want to Miss:04:00 — We’re Wired for Connection, Yet More Disconnected Than EverDespite being biologically hardwired for relationships, technology, faulty programming, and disruption have left us lonelier than ever. Rosie explains why feeling seen and heard is as essential as food and water.10:30 — Faulty Programs That Hold Us BackFrom the Overachiever to the Martyr, Perfectionist, People Pleaser, and more—Rosie unpacks the seven faulty programs that sabotage us and how to start upgrading them.18:00 — Inner Game vs. Outer GameWhy training alone doesn’t stick unless we first update our “inner operating system.” Self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and narrative rewiring are the foundations for lasting leadership change.24:00 — The 3x3x3 Challenge to Build ConnectionA simple daily practice: take three minutes to reach out to three people for three months. This small act of showing up for others strengthens relationships and boosts wellbeing.💡 This Episode Is for:Leaders, change agents, and anyone tired of hustling and “doing it all” who wants to show up authentically, break free of head trash, and rehumanize work and life.🔗 Where to Learn More:SalveoPartners.com — Rosie’s company site with resources and white papersDrRosieWard.com — blog, podcast, and book infoConnect with Dr. Rosie Ward on LinkedIn, Instagram, and YouTube
This week, Morag is joined by Jonathan Stutz—President of Global Diversity Partners, Inc., former leader at Amazon, Microsoft, and Zulily, and co-author (with Eddie Pate) of Daily Practices of Inclusive Leaders: A Guide to Building a Culture of Belonging.With over 25 years of experience in leadership, Jonathan shares how inclusion is not a “program” but a daily practice—and why creating cultures of belonging is both a moral imperative and a business advantage.🔑 4 Key Takeaways You Won’t Want to Miss:02:00 — Relationships Are the Legacy That LastsJonathan reflects on how mentors, colleagues, and friendships are the true markers of success—long after projects and titles are forgotten.06:00 — Inclusion Before DiversityUsing the “home” metaphor, Jonathan explains why focusing on inclusion first ensures that diverse hires don’t walk out the back door—and how belonging fuels retention and performance.13:00 — Dropping Pebbles to Create RipplesInclusive leadership doesn’t require grand gestures. Jonathan shares how small, daily actions—like stopping interruptions in meetings or pressing “pause” on microaggressions—create ripples that shift culture over time.20:00 — From Gap Analysis to Real ChangeWhy throwing programs at the wall isn’t enough. Jonathan outlines how assessing culture, listening to marginalized voices, and cutting data by intersectionality lead to meaningful strategies for equity and belonging.💡 This Episode Is for:Leaders, HR professionals, and changemakers who want to move beyond well-intentioned diversity statements and instead create tangible, lasting cultures of belonging.🔗 Where to Learn More:Daily Practices of Inclusive Leaders by Jonathan Stutz & Eddie PateInclusivePebbles.com — resources, videos, and toolsGlobalDiversityPartners.net — Jonathan’s consulting practiceConnect with Jonathan Stutz on LinkedIn
In this episode of People First, Morag is joined by Meredith Waters—high-performance coach, transformational strategist, and founder of Thriving at Water’s Edge. With over two decades in high-stakes global leadership, including post-conflict zones and climate-vulnerable regions, Meredith has developed the Resilient Ambition Framework to help individuals and mission-driven teams move through disruption with clarity, adaptability, and purpose.From the concept of “ambition disruption” to embracing intentional “fallow periods,” Meredith shares practical tools for reframing setbacks as opportunities for growth.🔑 4 Key Takeaways You Won’t Want to Miss:03:00 — The Power of Lifting Others UpMeredith reflects on the military-inspired mindset of training others to do your job—and how removing competition builds stronger teams, deeper trust, and mutual success.07:30 — What Is Ambition Disruption?Learn how career ceilings, missed promotions, personal loss, or major industry changes can trigger “life quakes”—and why recognizing them is the first step toward intentional growth.10:00 — Embracing the Fallow PeriodMeredith explains how to use transitional periods to rest, reassess, and explore new goals. This pause isn’t inactivity—it’s purposeful cultivation of what comes next.16:30 — Evolving Forward vs. Bouncing BackThrough her Resilient Ambition Framework, Meredith outlines how to gain clarity, build emotional resilience, and realign ambitions—so you don’t just return to “business as usual” but adapt for a more fulfilling path.💡 This Episode Is for:Leaders, changemakers, and high performers navigating disruption who want to turn uncertainty into a launchpad for intentional, sustainable growth.🔗 Where to Learn More:Thriving at Water’s EdgeConnect with Meredith Waters on LinkedInFollow Thriving at Water’s Edge on Facebook and LinkedIn
This week, we welcome award-winning global learning executive and author Jeanine Mathó to People First. Jeanine shares her deeply personal journey from the height of corporate success through burnout and loss — only to emerge with a powerful new vision for what lasting success can truly look and feel like.In this conversation, Jeanine introduces her new book Live Your Opus: Reclaim Your Energy, Redefine Success, and Create a Life That Truly Matters, written for high-achieving professionals who may look successful on the outside, but feel misaligned or depleted within.🔑 4 Key Takeaways You Won’t Want to Miss:03:45 — Burnout Is Not a WeaknessAfter hitting a personal wall following the sudden loss of her mother and relentless corporate demands, Jeanine reframes burnout as a moment of awakening—not failure—and explains how we can learn from it before hitting the edge.08:40 — High Achievement ≠ High PerformanceWhat separates Olympic athletes from overworked professionals? Energy management. Jeanine explains why working harder doesn’t always lead to better results—and how to build recovery, alignment, and endurance into your ambition.13:00 — Your Energy Is Your PowerJeanine introduces the Opus 8 Energy System and the three anchoring pillars: Stability, Alignment, and Endurance. These are not abstract ideas, but practical pathways to lead from a place of vitality and intention.21:00 — You Are Your Greatest WorkForget the titles and accolades. Jeanine urges us to reclaim authorship of our stories, own our voices, and treat our lives as the most meaningful masterpiece we’ll ever create—our opus.💡 This Episode Is for:Leaders, founders, executives, and ambitious professionals feeling the toll of success and wondering: “Is this it?” If you’re ready to shift from depletion to purpose, this conversation is your call to action.🔗 Where to Learn More:Live Your Opus — Available Fall 2025Connect with Jeanine Matho on LinkedInStay tuned for pre-order links and updates through Jeanine’s professional channels
We’re thrilled to welcome Dr. Bobbi Wegner—psychologist, Harvard lecturer, and founder of GROOPS—to People First!. With her unique blend of clinical and organizational psychology, Bobbi shares how leaders can evolve from taskmasters to team coaches by leveraging simple psychological tools that drive connection, performance, and well-being.In a world where workplace disconnection is at an all-time high, Bobbi’s insights are a timely reminder that relationships are not just a “nice to have”—they’re a business imperative.🔑 4 Key Takeaways You Won’t Want to Miss:03:00 — The Power of One PersonDr. Lee, Bobbi’s college professor, sparked a lifelong journey into health psychology and human connection. This reminder: small encouragements can have ripple effects that last decades.07:45 — What GROOOPS Gets Right About WorkBobbi explains how her company, GROOPS, equips psychologists to support leaders in real-time with scalable, low-cost coaching—anchored in human connection and real science.10:00 — Cohesion = Connection + PerformanceWhy psychological safety and team cohesion matter more than ever. Bobbi shares stats and strategies proving that relational health isn’t just about morale—it’s directly tied to profit, retention, and innovation.14:00 — Coaching > CommandingUsing the ORS framework from motivational interviewing, leaders can build trust and autonomy by asking better questions, affirming effort, and reflecting back understanding—without adding more to their plate.💡 This Episode Is for:Team leaders, HR professionals, educators, and forward-thinking executives who want to stop managing tasks and start cultivating thriving cultures.🔗 Where to Learn More:joinGROOPS.com — Bobbi’s company offering psychology-driven coaching at scaleDrBobbiWegner.comHarvard Graduate School of Education & Extension School ProgramsConnect with Bobbi on LinkedIn
This week, Morag sits down with Sabina Nawaz—executive coach, former Microsoft executive, and author of You Are the Boss: Become the Manager You Want to Be and Others Need. Sabina brings a sharp, compassionate lens to the messy reality of leadership—especially how pressure, not power, causes even the best bosses to behave badly.From lessons learned in Microsoft’s high-stakes executive suites to real-world tools for becoming a better boss (without burning out), Sabina shares insight with warmth, clarity, and actionable wisdom.🔑 4 Key Takeaways You Won’t Want to Miss:02:58 — The Generosity Effect: Channel Your Inner JaneSabina honors her former colleague Jane, whose abundant generosity left a permanent mark on her leadership style—and reminds us all to show up with presence and practical kindness, even across silos.05:30 — It’s Not Power That Corrupts—It’s PressureSabina breaks down how even well-meaning leaders shift into bad boss behaviors when pressure spikes—and why being self-aware, especially about tone and body language, is crucial as you gain more influence.11:00 — When Good Bosses Go RogueIn a raw story of her own, Sabina recalls the jarring moment she learned her team feared her after returning from parental leave—and how unchecked pressure warped her leadership. Her turnaround offers a candid playbook for course-correcting with humility.17:00 — Micro-Habits, Major ChangeForget the silver bullet. Sabina advocates starting small—like being the third to speak in a meeting or shutting your laptop five minutes earlier. These micro-habits can compound into powerful shifts in behavior, perception, and trust.💡 This Episode Is for:Leaders in transition, newly promoted managers, and high performers who want to grow their leadership without losing themselves—or their teams—in the process.🔗 Where to Learn More:SabinaNawaz.com – Book resources, tools, and Sabina’s newsletter PressureProofYou Are the Boss — Available wherever books are soldConnect with Sabina on LinkedIn
We’re excited to welcome Suzie Bishop, Vice President of Product Development at the Center for Leadership Studies and member of the Marshall Goldsmith 100 Coaches community. In this episode, Suzie shares how the timeless model of Situational Leadership is being reimagined for today's workplace—and why trust, adaptability, and honest feedback loops are essential for thriving teams.From her early mentors to her current work co-authoring two major leadership books (yes, two!), Suzie brings clarity, humility, and real-world wisdom to the conversation.🔑 4 Key Takeaways You Won’t Want to Miss:02:00 — Opening Doors and Paying It ForwardSuzie reflects on two people who shaped her leadership journey.06:00 — Leadership Is Task-Based, Not One-Size-Fits-AllSituational Leadership teaches leaders to flex their style depending on the specific task at hand and the individual’s readiness. Suzie explains the model with clarity, emphasizing how behaviors—not job titles—drive performance success.13:00 — Why Situational Leadership Still Matters (50 Years On)Suzie shares how the model has stood the test of time because it’s simple, behavioral, and rooted in human connection. Its relevance today is even stronger as organizations grapple with change, disengagement, and the demand for more personalized leadership.21:00 — Coaching vs. Managing: What Power Looks Like in PracticeSuzie explores how the same leadership model functions differently in executive coaching versus management—highlighting key nuances in trust, expertise, and legitimate power.💡 This Episode Is for:Leaders, coaches, HR professionals, and anyone looking to lead with greater self-awareness, relationship savvy, and adaptability in times of change.🔗 Where to Learn More:Suzie Bishop on LinkedInSituational.comCenter for Leadership Studies updates on LinkedIn
We’re thrilled to welcome back Garry Ridge, Chairman Emeritus of WD-40 Company and author of Any Dumb Ass Can Do It. Known for his bold authenticity and signature Aussie wisdom, Garry dives into how embracing “dumbassery” is actually the key to unlocking great leadership, building cultures of belonging, and sending people home happy.With stories ranging from riding a horse in a suit of armor through Times Square to redefining what it means to coach a team, this episode is packed with insight, heart, and humor.🔑 4 Key Takeaways You Won’t Want to Miss:02:18 — Vulnerability in Action: Yes, Garry really rode a horse through Times Square. But more importantly, he explains how showing up authentically—even making a spectacle of yourself—can build connection and trust within your team.06:37 — Dumb Assery as a Superpower: Why the phrase “I don’t know” is one of the most powerful leadership tools—and how embracing your inner “dumb ass” can unlock collective brilliance.08:52 — From Mistakes to Learning Moments: WD-40’s culture pivoted when they replaced the word “failure” with “learning moments”—creating psychological safety and sparking innovation company-wide.12:49 — From Boss to Coach: What happens when you ditch the word “manager” and start coaching your people to play their best game? Garry shares how that mindset changed everything at WD-40.💡 This Episode Is for:Leaders, HR professionals, and anyone looking to lead with more empathy, humility, and results.🔗 Where to Learn More:Take the Dumb Assery Quiz and get your free leadership playbook at: www.thelearningmoment.netJoin Garry’s “School of Dumb Assery” on LinkedInAnd check out his best-selling book: Any Dumb Ass Can Do It
In this episode of the People First Podcast, we sit down with executive coach Dina Denham Smith to explore the power of emotional agility in leadership. Dina shares how leaders can navigate change with confidence, break free from stress patterns, and foster genuine emotional awareness at work. From managing toxic positivity to understanding the mind-body connection, this conversation is filled with actionable insights to help leaders cultivate resilience and authenticity.Here are some key takeaways you won’t want to miss:07:45 – Navigating change with confidence by recognizing and addressing your emotions.12:30 – The DARE framework: A practical tool for breaking free from the stress spiral.18:10 – The impact of hiding, suppressing, and faking emotions at work, and how to handle toxic positivity.23:50 – The connection between emotions and bodily sensations, and how awareness can help manage emotions effectively.Connect with Dina Smith: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dina-denham-smithAnd... don’t forget to check out our book! You, Me, We: Why We All Need a Friend at Work (and How to Show Up As One!) The hardcover is available now! This book is a heartfelt guide for leaders looking to build deep, meaningful relationships at work, which are the cornerstone of personal and professional success.Get your copy here: https://amzn.to/3NrQulV
This week on People First, we’re joined by Dr. Joey Faucette, a culture architect, certified executive coach, and best-selling author of Work Positive in a Negative World: Team Edition. Dr. Joey helps organizations shift from a toxic “Kevin Culture” to a positive work culture that fuels engagement, productivity, and profits. His insights have been featured in The Wall Street Journal, CNBC, Fox Business News, and Entrepreneur Media, and he hosts the Work Positive Podcast. Here are some key takeaways you won’t want to miss: • 03:00 From Pediatric Dreams to Culture Transformation: How Dr. Joey’s early fascination with medicine evolved into a passion for helping organizations create thriving workplaces. • 07:00 What Is a Work-Positive Culture?: Dr. Joey breaks down the five essential practices that help companies grow people and profits. • 10:00 The Power of Mindset: How our thoughts shape our workplace experiences and why leaders must actively guide their teams toward a positive outlook. • 14:00 The Role of Relationships in Workplace Culture: Why choosing the right people to collaborate with has a direct impact on success. • 18:00 Small Hinges Swing Big Doors: Dr. Joey explains how small, intentional actions can lead to massive shifts in culture, innovation, and productivity. • 22:00 The Secret to Belonging at Work: How leaders can foster an environment where employees feel valued, connected, and empowered to do their best work. This episode is filled with practical strategies and deep insights for leaders and teams looking to transform their workplace culture. Dr. Joey’s wisdom will challenge the way you think about work and inspire you to take action. Where to Find Dr. Joey Faucette and Learn More: Visit www.workpositive.today to explore Dr. Joey’s resources, courses, and books. Connect with him on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/drjoeyfaucette/Follow Work Positive on Instagram: @workpositive.today Watch insights on YouTube: @workpositive7529 And... don’t forget to check out our book! You, Me, We: Why We All Need a Friend at Work (and How to Show Up As One!) The hardcover is available now! This book is a heartfelt guide for leaders looking to build deep, meaningful relationships at work, which are the cornerstone of personal and professional success. Get your copy here: https://amzn.to/3NrQulV
This week on People First, we welcome Dave MacDonald, Owner and President of Better Together Group. Built on Zig Ziglar’s philosophy—"If you help enough other people get what they want, you will get what you want"—Better Together Group helps businesses increase productivity and profitability by hiring the right people while ensuring job candidates can feed their families and fulfill their ambitions.Here are some key takeaways you won’t want to miss:02:00 From Maple Syrup to People-First Leadership: How managing his family’s farm in Canada shaped Dave’s passion for hiring and team-building.05:00 Creating a Relationship-First Culture: Dave shares how businesses can shift from transactional leadership to a people-first mindset.08:00 Transparency in Leadership: Why showing vulnerability at work fosters trust and stronger teams.12:00 Hiring for Culture Fit: Dave explains why character and values matter just as much—if not more—than skills in the hiring process.15:00 Healthy Turnover: How leaders can embrace employee transitions, support their career growth, and maintain strong alumni relationships.21:00 Work That Feeds Families: The mission behind Better Together Group and how Dave’s journey fuels his drive to help blue-collar workers find fulfilling jobs.This episode is packed with wisdom for leaders, business owners, and HR professionals looking to build stronger teams and create a culture where people thrive.Where to Find Dave MacDonald and Learn More:Visit BetterTogetherGroup.com for insights on hiring and workforce development.Listen to Dave’s podcast, X2Z, where he and his daughter, Hannah, discuss leadership, hiring, and workplace culture: XtoZ.orgAnd... don’t forget to check out our book!You, Me, We: Why We All Need a Friend at Work (and How to Show Up As One!) The hardcover is available now! This book is a heartfelt guide for leaders looking to build deep, meaningful relationships at work, which are the cornerstone of personal and professional success.Get your copy here:https://amzn.to/3NrQulV
This week on People First, we welcome Mindy Honcoop, a seasoned people leader, HR advisor, and the founder of Agile in HR. With over 24 years of experience optimizing organizational success, Mindy helps leaders align culture with revenue strategy through advising, workshops, and speaking engagements. Here are some key takeaways you won’t want to miss:02:00 The Power of Possibility: Mindy shares how she helps people shift from “I can’t” to “I can” and why that fuels her passion for leadership and HR.07:00 The Unexpected Journey: How a hiring manager took a chance on Mindy, pulling her from the “do not hire” bin and setting her on a leadership path.10:00 Culture Meets Revenue: Mindy explains why organizations must connect people strategy with business success and how HR leaders can drive that change.14:00 Trust and Turnover: The hidden costs of a disengaged workforce and how fostering a culture of trust leads to better retention and customer success.20:00 Making One-on-Ones Meaningful: Mindy shares how leaders can transform one-on-one meetings into a tool for engagement, accountability, and business impact.23:00 Entrepreneurial Lessons: From corporate HR to running her own business, Mindy reveals what she’s learned about leadership, risk-taking, and growth.This episode is packed with insights for HR professionals, leaders, and entrepreneurs looking to build stronger workplace cultures while driving business success.Where to Find Mindy Honcoop and Learn More:Visit www.agileinhr.com and www.mindyhoncoop.com for resources on aligning culture with revenue.Connect with Mindy on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/mindyhoncoop/
This week on People First, we welcome Stephen George, a seasoned voice actor, audio professional, and broadcast producer with more than a decade of experience in the field. As a key member of Twin Flames Studios, Stephen has helped countless authors bring their words to life through expertly produced audiobooks. His mission? To guide authors through the recording process, ensuring their message is heard authentically and powerfully.Here are some key takeaways you won’t want to miss:04:00 The Art of Storytelling: Insights from Stephen’s experience in journalism and broadcast production on how to craft and deliver compelling stories.06:00 The Audiobook Process: What authors should know before stepping into the recording booth, including the importance of preparation and reading their work aloud.10:00 The Power of Deep Listening: Stephen explains how he listens beyond the words—catching background noise, pacing, and breathing patterns to enhance an audiobook’s quality.19:00 Practical Listening Tips: Stephen offers valuable insights for leaders on how to cultivate deep, intentional listening in their work and daily interactions.This episode is a must-listen for authors, leaders, and anyone looking to refine their communication and storytelling skills. Stephen’s expertise and passion for helping others shine through in every aspect of his work.Where to Find Stephen George and Learn More About Twin Flames Studios:Visit www.TwinFlamesStudios.com to explore their audiobook production services. Connect with Stephen on LinkedIn or follow him on Instagram at @StephenGeorgeVO for insights into voice work and audiobook production.
This week on People First, we’re thrilled to welcome back Robert Glazer, founder and chairman of Acceleration Partners, a global leader in partnership marketing, and a best-selling author. Robert’s new book, Rethinking Two Weeks Notice: Changing the Way Employees Leave Companies for the Better, reimagines how professional relationships can end with dignity, mutual respect, and better outcomes for all parties.Here are some key takeaways you won’t want to miss:02:00 The Inspiration Behind the Book: Robert shares how his frustration with traditional two-week notice practices inspired him to rethink professional transitions and create the Career Engagement Program.05:00 Why Endings Matter: Robert discusses the psychology of endings and how the final impression of a work relationship disproportionately impacts our overall memories of it.10:00 Honest Conversations: Learn how transparent and open discussions between employees and employers can improve outcomes, from internal transitions to amicable departures.18:00 The Four Principles of Open Transition: Robert outlines the essential components of an effective transition program, including psychological safety, mutual respect, and open communication.24:00 The Alumni Advantage: Discover how organizations can create a culture where employees feel comfortable returning and contributing with fresh perspectives and new skills.This episode is a must-listen for leaders, HR professionals, and anyone interested in transforming the way organizations approach employee departures. Robert’s insights provide a roadmap for creating win-win scenarios that leave lasting positive impressions.Where to Find Robert Glazer and Learn More:Visit www.robertglazer.com to explore Robert’s books, including Rethinking Two Weeks Notice, subscribe to his Friday Forward newsletter, and discover other valuable resources. You can also read the first three chapters of his latest book for free on his Substack.Be sure to check out Robert’s Friday Forward newsletter for practical tips and reflections on work and life, and follow him on LinkedIn for regular updates on his work.And... don’t forget to check out our book!You, Me, We: Why We All Need a Friend at Work (and How to Show Up As One!). This book is a heartfelt guide for leaders looking to build deep, meaningful relationships at work, which are the cornerstone of personal and professional success.Get your copy here: https://amzn.to/3NrQulV
This week on People First, we’re thrilled to welcome Heather Younger back to the show! Heather is the CEO of Employee Fanatix, a TEDx speaker, a three-time best-selling author, and a LinkedIn Learning course partner. Her latest book, The Art of Self Leadership: Discover the Power Within You and Learn to Lead Yourself, is a guide to uncovering your intrinsic worth, embracing self-leadership, and showing up as the best version of yourself.Here are some key takeaways you won’t want to miss:04:00 Finding Your Golden Core: Heather shares her powerful concept of unveiling your intrinsic brilliance and how self-leadership begins with embracing your worth.08:00 Overcoming Self-Doubt: Learn how to challenge imposter syndrome and reclaim your inner confidence, with Heather’s own journey as a prime example.10:00 Understanding Fear: Heather discusses the role fear plays in holding us back and how to use it as a tool for growth.16:00 Prioritizing Self-Care: Heather explains how small, intentional acts, like staying hydrated and moving regularly, can significantly impact your well-being and leadership capacity.21:00 Relationships and Influence: Heather reflects on the importance of building intentional relationships, creating safe spaces, and embracing feedback for personal and professional growth.In this inspiring episode, Heather shows us how self-leadership is the foundation of all leadership. Her message? You are good enough simply because you exist. From actionable strategies to profound insights, this conversation will empower you to take charge of your journey.Find Heather on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/heatherryounger/ and on her website https://heatheryounger.com/
This week on People First, we welcome Nathalie Sabourin and Ron Cheshire, co-authors of the groundbreaking book Co-Development Action Learning for Business. Drawing from decades of leadership and coaching expertise, Nathalie and Ron share how their CAL (Co-Development Action Learning) methodology is transforming the way leaders and teams innovate, solve problems, and collaborate in an ever-changing business environment.Here are some key takeaways you won’t want to miss:02:00 From Dreams to Global Impact: Nathalie’s journey from aspiring to work in Japan to becoming an expert in leadership development and co-creation.05:00 Coaching Roots: Ron reflects on how his early experiences as a skating coach laid the foundation for his passion for mentoring and team development.10:00 Why CAL Matters: Learn how the CAL methodology fosters innovation, psychological safety, and teamwork, and why it’s more critical than ever in today’s complex business environment.14:00 The Seven Steps of CAL: Ron and Nathalie break down the structured process behind CAL, highlighting how it balances deep problem exploration with actionable solutions.21:00 Real-Life Applications: From overwhelmed leaders to community support during the pandemic, Nathalie and Ron share stories of how CAL has driven transformation and learning.This episode dives deep into how CAL offers a practical, scalable approach for teams to foster collaboration, accelerate projects, and create cultures of continuous learning. Whether you’re a coach, team leader, or organizational change agent, Nathalie and Ron’s insights will leave you inspired to try something new.Learn more about Nathalie Sabourin and Ron Cheshire.
This week on People First, we’re joined by Julie Winkle Giulioni, a workplace growth champion and best-selling author. Julie helps leaders and organizations unlock talent and potential through meaningful career development. Her latest work, Help Them Grow or Watch Them Go: Career Conversations Organizations Need and Employees Still Want (now in its third edition), redefines how managers can support their teams in today’s fast-changing workplace.Here are some key takeaways you won’t want to miss:-03:00 From Elevator Operator Dreams to Career Champion: Julie shares her unconventional childhood aspirations and how they influenced her focus on career development.-06:00 Beyond the Ladder: Julie explains why traditional career ladders are evolving and how opportunities within roles can offer transformative growth.-12:00 Psychological Safety and Development: The critical role psychological safety plays in fostering meaningful development relationships in the workplace.- 13:00 Developing at a Distance: Strategies for leaders to support the growth of remote and hybrid employees and avoid proximity bias.-16:00 Human vs. AI: Julie underscores the enduring importance of human interaction in career conversations, even in an increasingly AI-driven world.This episode offers a fresh perspective on career development, exploring how short, frequent, and intentional conversations can transform organizations. Julie’s insights challenge conventional approaches and inspire leaders to embrace development as an everyday practice.
This week on People First, we sit down with Jonathan Bennett, an advisor and executive coach specializing in helping purpose-driven leaders navigate their toughest challenges. With career-spanning roles as a CEO, board member, and founder, Jonathan brings a wealth of experience in social purpose, governance, strategy, and communications. His unique ability to listen deeply and craft breakthrough solutions makes him a trusted partner for leaders seeking clarity and impact.Here are some key takeaways you won’t want to miss:02:00 From Storyteller to Executive Coach: Jonathan shares his journey from childhood dreams of becoming a writer to a career in corporate leadership and coaching.06:00 The Entrepreneurial Leap: Lessons learned from founding and growing a successful consulting firm, including navigating the highs and lows of business ownership.10:00 The Power of Vulnerability: Why isolation at the top is common among leaders and how building trusted relationships can break through the barriers of loneliness.16:00 Beyond the Surface: Jonathan explains how listening deeply and identifying the "story beneath the story" helps leaders uncover the real challenges they face.21:00 Relationships at the Core: Jonathan highlights the vital role relationships play in scaling businesses, building trust, and sustaining personal and professional success.This episode is an insightful exploration of leadership, resilience, and the profound impact of relationships on success. Jonathan’s wisdom offers actionable strategies for leaders to reconnect with their purpose and navigate the complexities of leading with authenticity.
This week on People First, we welcome Mary Ostafi, executive coach, speaker, and author of Coming into Consciousness: Living with Purpose, Loving with Passion, and Leading with Presence. Mary’s journey spans architecture, sustainability, and leadership, guiding people toward intentional lives rooted in authenticity and alignment. Her mission is to help individuals embrace conscious leadership for transformational growth, combining her systems approach with compassion and creativity.Here are some key takeaways you won’t want to miss:03:00 From Architecture to Coaching: Mary reflects on her early career, where designing meaningful spaces inspired her transition to helping people design lives they love.07:00 A Journey of Reinvention: Mary shares her own career pivots and how leaders can embrace transitions with courage and clarity.10:00 The Inspiration Behind the Book: Discover how Coming into Consciousness was born out of Mary’s personal reflections on purpose, passion, and presence.15:00 Signals and Intuition: Mary encourages readers to notice the “signals” life sends and trust their intuition as a guide for fulfilling choices.21:00 Relationships as a Mirror: Mary discusses the powerful role of relationships in self-growth and why cultivating a strong relationship with oneself is essential.This episode offers powerful insights into intentional living, self-awareness, and the courage to lead with presence. Mary’s wisdom and approach to conscious living will inspire you to live with purpose and be unapologetically yourself.And... don’t forget to check out our book!You, Me, We: Why We All Need a Friend at Work (and How to Show Up As One!) The hardcover is available now! We've put our hearts into this exciting new book; we're sharing the insights of our research and experience as authors, best friends at work, and our leadership development programs around the world. You, Me, We is a book for leaders who want to improve― at leading, yes, but also at their lives. How so? By building deep, long-lasting relationships that set everybody up for success.Get your copy here:https://amzn.to/3NrQulV