Episodes

What if your loyalty shouldn't lie with your direct reports, but with your peers? In this episode, we dive into the “First Team” leadership approach, a mindset shift that challenges the traditional org chart. We talk about why prioritizing your colleagues at the same level can create stronger alignm...

AI can help us move faster, work smarter, and even prep for a one-on-one. But what happens when we start using it as a substitute for human connection? In this episode, we explore the tension between efficiency and empathy. From trust breakdowns to team assignments gone sideways, we talk about how e...

We’re taught to celebrate the loudest voice in the room. But what if the most effective leaders are the ones who say less and listen more? In this conversation, we unpack the surprising strengths of introverted leaders. From creating space for others to showing up with quiet confidence, we explore h...

Can you be a good leader and still want to be liked? Or does that instinct hold you back? In this episode, we dig into the tension between being likable and being effective. We talk about how the people-pleasing gene that makes you successful early on can become a liability when tough calls need to ...

Think Gen Z is leading the charge on AI? Not so fast. It turns out your middle managers might be the ones best positioned to drive real change. In this episode, we talk about why this layer of leadership is so critical to AI adoption. From curiosity and context to bridging top-down vision with on-th...

You know that person who always interrupts or hijacks the meeting? Most teams do. And when no one addresses it, everyone loses. In this episode, we talk about why civility still matters, maybe more than ever. We dig into how small behaviors erode trust, how to spot the patterns early, and what leade...

The old school nine-to-five doesn’t fit today’s work, or today’s workers. Still, so many leaders fall back on time as a stand-in for productivity. In this episode, we unpack what it actually means to lead for outcomes. We talk about energy cycles, what red light has to do with your brain, and how to...

Middle managers are overworked, overlooked, and often under-supported. Yet they’re the glue holding organizations together—and right now, many of them are stuck in a cycle of burnout and invisibility. In this episode, we dig into why this layer matters more than ever, how it’s being neglected, and w...

AI is changing the game—and it’s got people on edge. From high-profile layoffs to execs declaring they won’t hire devs again, there’s a new kind of fear spreading through teams. In this episode, we talk about what leaders can actually do. We get into the emotional side of AI disruption, why radical ...

AI is everywhere, but not everyone is excited. In this episode, we explore the growing anxiety employees feel about AI and what leaders can do when they don’t have all the answers. Susie and James unpack new survey data, generational differences in AI concerns, and the deeper fear many employees hav...

You said it clearly, so why isn’t your team acting on it? In this episode, Susie and James dig into a subtle but critical leadership challenge: the time gap between when something is said and when it’s truly heard, understood, and internalized. From the "percolation effect" to the myth that silence ...

Middle managers are often the most overlooked—and overloaded—leaders in an organization. Caught between executive pressure and team expectations, they’re expected to influence without authority, stay motivated under stress, and manage up, down, and sideways. So how do you actually thrive in the midd...

Should leaders be able to do their team's work—or is that missing the point entirely? In this episode, Susie and James unpack a question that comes up more often than you'd think: what’s the role of expertise in leadership, and where does it get in the way? From executives who feel pressure to know ...

Not all feedback is spoken—and often, the most important signals from your team are the ones they don’t say out loud. In this episode, Susie and James explore what it means to recognize and respond to the subtle cues that indicate misalignment, anxiety, or disengagement. From meetings that lead to m...

When motivation fades in the middle layers of leadership, the ripple effect can stall an entire organization. In this episode, Susie and James unpack why VPs and middle managers often feel stuck—and what leaders can do to reignite energy, ownership, and engagement at this critical level. They explor...

Bringing back a former executive can feel like a safe bet, after all, they know the business, the people, the playbook. But is it really the right move? In this episode, Susie and James explore the complicated reality of rehiring former leaders. From muscle memory and cultural fit to chemistry shift...

As technology evolves at lightning speed, executive leaders are facing a tough question: just how technical do you need to be? In this episode, Susie and James sit down with award-winning coach and former engineer Angie Cullen to unpack the growing tension between technical expertise and people lead...

Leadership is a human skill—but what if AI could help you sharpen it? In this episode, Susie and James explore how leaders can use AI not to replace their instincts, but to strengthen them. From analyzing your communication patterns to crafting better questions for your team, AI can be a powerful to...

As AI becomes central to business strategy, a new kind of leadership tension is emerging: everyone wants to “own” it. But should anyone? In this episode, Susie and James dig into the growing turf war at the executive level—where AI sits, who leads it, and how companies should be thinking about cross...

We’ve all heard the stories: the most successful leaders wake up at 3AM, journal, cold plunge, and run six miles before sunrise. But… is that actually what makes them great? In this episode, we challenge the myth of the “perfect morning routine” and ask what really supports strong leadership. Susie ...

How do you know if you actually have influence—or if people are just following orders? Influence isn’t just about authority or making decisions; it’s about trust, relationships, and how others engage with you. But too often, leaders assume they have influence without looking for real evidence. In th...

AI is changing the hiring process, from screening resumes to influencing how interviews are conducted—but what does that really mean for job seekers? Is AI helping candidates land jobs, or is it just another system to outsmart? In this episode, we dig into how AI is being used in hiring, whether can...

We all know that feedback is essential for growth—but why is it so tricky to get right? Whether you're giving it or receiving it, emotions, biases, and communication breakdowns can turn a simple critique into a full-blown misunderstanding. In this episode, Susie shares a recent experience where feed...

What does it take to stay at the top of your game as a leader—year after year? In this episode, we sit down with Alex Porter, CEO of Location3, a digital ad agency specializing in franchise marketing. With 25 years in the industry, Alex shares how he stays innovative, the leadership lessons he’s lea...

Innovation is something every company says they want, but what does it actually look like in practice? Leaders push for creativity and fresh thinking, but often get stuck in the same routines that make true innovation difficult. Is it about changing team structures? Shifting individual mindsets? Cre...

Is it time to return to the office, or have we mastered remote work? In this episode, we take a fresh look at the return-to-office debate and why more companies are pushing for in-person work again. We discuss the hidden benefits of being together, the realities of hybrid work, and whether full-time...

The first 90 days of a new role are full of energy, excitement, and big plans—but what happens when the honeymoon phase ends? In this episode, we explore why many leaders struggle after the initial momentum fades and how to avoid common pitfalls like burnout, boredom, and overwhelm. We’ll share stra...

Not all team dynamics are loud and obvious—some of the most important signals are the quietest. In this episode, we dive into the subtle, unspoken cues that shape collaboration, trust, and engagement within a team. Learn how to recognize shifts in team chemistry, navigate remote team challenges, and...

Can you believe it? We’ve hit 100 episodes! In this milestone episode, we take a moment to reflect on how far we’ve come, the lessons we’ve learned, and the unexpected joys of podcasting. Join us as we share insights from our journey, the moments that stood out, and what’s next for the show. Whether...

How do great leaders find their authentic voice? In this episode, we break down what it means to develop a leadership style that feels genuine and effective. From building a leadership portfolio to adapting your approach for different situations, we share actionable tips to help you grow as a leader...

Do you ever feel like you don’t belong at the table? In this episode, we explore how imposter syndrome can hold you back and share our tips to quiet your inner critic. Learn how to recognize your wins, reframe failures, and surround yourself with the right support. If you’re ready to embrace your le...

What’s your relationship with networking? In this episode, we challenge the traditional idea of networking as just collecting business cards and explore how to create meaningful, career-changing connections. You’ll hear tips for building a value-driven network, creating consistent connection rituals...

What makes a great leader truly impactful? In this episode, we explore how storytelling can turn dry data into narratives that resonate and inspire action. We also uncover the often-overlooked skill of active listening and its role in building trust and alignment. Plus, you’ll learn practical tips t...

What truly defines a great leader? In this episode, we sit down with Steve Foster to uncover his incredible journey from a challenging childhood to a career spanning law enforcement, entrepreneurship, and civic service. Steve shares how grit, empathy, and curiosity have shaped his leadership philoso...

Ever walked into a meeting feeling like you’re gearing up for battle? In this episode, we’re breaking down what it takes to turn workplace tension into real progress. We share insights on staying objective under pressure, practical tips from proven frameworks (including one even the UN swears by), a...

Is your calendar running your life? Join us as we challenge the grind and explore new ways to master your time in a world demanding 'more with less.' Discover cutting-edge strategies for energy management, time audits, and innovative work practices that redefine productivity in today's AI-driven, po...

Ever feel like you’re stuck in the grind of daily tasks and can’t focus on the bigger picture? In this episode, we unravel the secrets of setting transformative goals that truly stick. Discover how to revolutionize your approach with cascading OKRs, dedicated achievement sprints, and rituals that ke...

Is AI coming for your job? In this episode we sit down with Amanda Moriuchi, CEO of Appit Ventures, to explore this pressing question. She shares her insights on how AI is disrupting industries, the vital human skills that technology can't replace, and why empathy and creativity are more important t...

Interviews aren’t just about answering questions—they’re about making connections. In this episode, we dive into the key elements of successful interviewing, from showing up as your true self to using body language effectively. We discuss how thoughtful preparation can ease nerves and create meaning...

Are soft skills still essential in a world dominated by AI? In this episode, we dive into the art of open-minded leadership, exploring techniques to challenge teams to think big and set audacious goals. We examine how AI can enhance communication and provide actionable feedback, helping leaders shar...

Did you know that the effects of layoffs can ripple through an organization for more than two years? In this episode, we explore how downsizing impacts the employees who stay, and why many leaders underestimate its lasting effects on company culture. From Airbnb's innovative approach to transparency...

Can cutting-edge technology and ancient medicines actually share common ground in business leadership? Dr. Melissa, a trauma therapist specializing in ketamine therapy, joins us in this episode to reveal fascinating parallels between AI adoption and psychedelic treatments. This conversation explores...

Are you hesitant to take risks in your leadership role? Learn how to confidently make bold moves without falling flat. In this episode, we explore practical strategies for assessing risks, creating an environment that embraces calculated risk-taking, and leveraging diverse perspectives to make bette...

Is your organization truly data-driven, or just data-drowning? Dive into the world of modern business intelligence as we explore how leaders can harness the power of data to make smarter decisions. From building company-wide data literacy to navigating the AI revolution, learn the essential steps to...

Ever wonder why some leaders inspire unwavering loyalty while others struggle to gain trust? Dive into the world of executive leadership as we uncover the power of transparency, ethical decision-making, and consistency. From Whole Foods' open approach to Johnson & Johnson's dedication to ethics,...

Can you imagine transforming your communication style to significantly boost your influence and effectiveness as a leader? Today we promise a masterclass in executive communication strategies with our guest, Amy Bell, a veteran executive from the media industry. Amy sheds light on the importance of ...

Feeling invisible at work and unsure how to get the recognition you deserve? In this episode, we explore the journey from being overlooked to becoming indispensable. We share our tips on how to stand out, gain influence, and advocate for yourself in the workplace. Learn how to secure a seat at the t...

Could shifting from a commanding boss to an empathetic coach be the key to unlocking your team's potential? In this episode we dive into the critical transition executives must make from commanding to coaching. Discover why this shift is crucial for your leadership success, learn practical tips to f...

Ever felt stuck dealing with a toxic peer? In this episode we dive into the reality that, as a senior leader, managing difficult colleagues isn't just a nuisance—it's your responsibility. Discover three strategies to turn these challenges into opportunities for growth and team cohesion. Whether you'...

Unlock the secrets to standing out in the crowded job market with insights from Andrew Veeder of TEKsystems! Discover actionable strategies for tailoring your resume to specific roles, leveraging AI for a competitive edge, and maintaining a cohesive, compelling narrative that captures employers' att...