Innovating Leadership: Co-Creating Our Future

S9-Ep37: Stop Managing and Start Leading: Your Call to Action from a Former Disney Exec

Guest: Sonya Shelton
Where is passion bred: in the heart or in the head? An executive may not care, but a leader knows how critical passion is – along with purpose and culture.
 
In this episode, Sonya Shelton reviews these and other critical elements of true leadership with host Maureen Metcalf. In a process called Red Thread Leadership, Sonya helps leaders tease out the elements that make their leadership – and their organizations – strong. It’s all based on her proven experience working in and carefully observing Disney and other companies.
Here's what Sonya and Maureen cover:
The red flags that are raised when executives use their titles to lead;
How poor leadership leads to burnout and turnover; and
Why younger generations won’t put up with a lack of purpose in a company or its executives.
 
Other episodes you'll enjoy:
Leading with Care & Purpose with Raj Sisodia & Sudhanshu Palsule
Do It on Purpose with Nell Derick Debevoise
Lead with the Power of Truth, Justice, & Purpose with Ron Carucci
 
For daily wisdom from our guests, be sure to follow us on LinkedIn. We’re on Instagram, Threads, and Twitter, too!
 
RESOURCES:  
Sonya’s book is You’re an Executive But Are You a Leader? Available on Amazon in hardback at https://amzn.to/3QXhYV0 and on Kindle at https://amzn.to/3QUdQ8c.
 
Her firm, and contact information, are online at https://executiveleader.com.
 
Our host Maureen Metcalf posts a newsletter every week on LinkedIn. You can subscribe here. 
 
She’s also written several award-winning books on leadership development. You can peruse and purchase them here. 
 
 
Books we’re reading for fun or personal development right now include:
Three Rocks: The Story of Ernie Bushmiller, the Man Who Created Nancy by Bill Griffith
The Parable of the Sower by Octavia Butler
The Left Hand of Darkness by Ursula K. LeGuin
Snow White & the Seven Robots by Louise Simonson & Jimena Sanchez
 
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OUR PODCAST TEAM:  
Host & Executive Producer: Maureen Metcalf
Editor & Producer: Dan Mushalko
Video & Graphics Editor: Devon Mushalko
Assistant Editor: Luigi Morelli
Executive Cool Cats: Jenna Reik & Mike Morrow-Fox
CONNECT WITH US: 
YouTube: @InnovatingLeadership 
Twitter: @IL_Institute 
LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/ILI-LinkedIn2 
Instagram: @innovativeleader 
TikTok: @innovativeleadership
Website: InnovativeLeadershipInstitute.com 
Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating! 
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About Our Guest:  
When it comes to navigating the ins and outs of business, Sonya Shelton has seen it all: from successful startups with brand-new ideas to well-established Fortune 500 companies. Sonya Shelton founded Executive Leadership Consulting in 2007 from her passion for partnering with leaders and high achievers to create a clear vision and build work environments where employees are fulfilled and completely committed to their organization’s success. She has captured her leadership tips and success stories in her #1 Amazon bestselling book “You’re an Executive, But Are You a Leader?” Having been an executive as well as an international speaker and consultant, Sonya knows how to tap into lesser-known, hidden practices that drive true leadership. Her philosophy, background and experience add a strategic, pragmatic, and multidimensional approach to making strong leaders. Sonya serves on the Forbes Coaches Council and is a certified Master Corporate Executive Coach through the Association of Corporate Executive Coaches.

S9-Ep36: Be Human, Lead Human

Guest: Jennifer Nash
In corporate America through the years, CEOs lost sight of something: humans. Humans fell so far off the radar that, when corporate leadership was analyzed, the majority of executives were actually leading processes and procedures, not people!
 
Do you work for one of those execs? Are you one of them?
 
There’s hope! Some leaders – like Ford’s Alan Mulally – began putting humans back in the equation, making their companies stronger. Dr. Jennifer Nash joins us to discuss Mulally’s techniques and other ways to lead with humanity, along with the benefits you’ll see.
Here's what Jennifer and Maureen cover:
What human leadership means;
Why it gets better results than the stereotypical uncaring bureaucracy; and
How to help leaders who aren’t cruising on the status quo, and actually want to be better leaders!
 
Other episodes you'll enjoy:
Informed Leadership: The Power of Trauma with Rachael Kelly
The Bonobo Sisterhood: Ape Society’s Lessons for Leadership with Diane Rosenfeld
The Human Energy Crisis at Work with Joshua Freedman
For daily wisdom from our guests, be sure to follow us on LinkedIn. We’re on Instagram, Threads and Twitter, too!
 
RESOURCES:  
Jennifer’s book, Be Human, Lead Human, is available on Amazon. Paperback is https://amzn.to/3qPZXx7, Kindle is https://amzn.to/45BNtbl.
 
You can learn more about the book and Jennifer’s work on her website: https://drjennifernash.com.
 
Our host, Maureen Metcalf, posts a newsletter every week on LinkedIn. You can subscribe here. 
 
She’s also written several award-winning books on leadership development. You can peruse and purchase them here. 
 
 
Books we’re reading for fun or personal development right now include:
The Five Lost Superpowers: Why We Lost Them & Hot to Get Them Back by John Reid, et al
Planet of the Apes by Pierre Boulle
The Left Hand of Darkness by Ursula K. LeGuin
Snow White & the Seven Robots by Louise Simonson & Jimena Sanchez
 
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OUR PODCAST TEAM:  
Host & Executive Producer: Maureen Metcalf
Editor & Producer: Dan Mushalko
Video & Graphics Editor: Devon Mushalko
Assistant Editor & Raconteur: Luigi Morelli
Ever Mindful of Our Humanity: Jenna Reik & Mike Morrow-Fox
CONNECT WITH US: 
YouTube: @InnovatingLeadership 
Twitter: @IL_Institute 
LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/ILI-LinkedIn2 
Instagram: @innovativeleader 
Website: InnovativeLeadershipInstitute.com 
 
Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating! 
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About Our Guest:  
Jennifer Nash, PhD, MBA, PCC is a leadership expert and consultant to Fortune 50 organizations such as Google, Ford, Exxon Mobil, JP Morgan, IBM, The Boeing Company, and Verizon. She is Founder & CEO of Jennifer Nash Coaching & Consulting, a leadership advisory firm helping successful leaders connect people and performance to deliver exceptional results.
Jennifer’s 25-year resume includes serving in executive and leadership roles at Deloitte Consulting and Ford Motor Company and as adjunct professor at the University of Michigan. She contributes to Harvard Business Review, has presented her research at Columbia University, and is a Harvard/McLean Institute of Coaching Fellow.

S9-Ep35: Ignite Your Leadership Game

Guest: Dre Baldwin
Feeling frustrated and overwhelmed by the lack of progress in achieving your goals, despite your best efforts and hard work?  You are not alone! Many leaders and aspiring leaders find themselves trapped in a cycle of unproductive actions, such as micromanaging every task or relying solely on their team's inertia, instead of taking personal initiative. This not only hinders their own growth and development but also limits the potential for success within their organizations. It's time to break free from this cycle and embrace the significance of personal initiative in driving your own success.
Former pro-basketball player and current full-time entrepreneur Dre Baldwin joins host Maureen Metcalf to share concepts from his business and new book, Work on Your Game – using the professional athlete mindset to achieve your – and your team’s – goals.
Here's what Dre and Maureen cover:
How structure can be the missing element to make personal discipline easier;
Why the Third Day Theory helps you continue something new – from an exercise program to a new team project – past the novelty of its honeymoon period; and
The infectious way your personal motivation can spread and help your team get on their game, too.
 
Other episodes you'll enjoy:
Disruption in America’s Favorite Pastime: Leadership Insights from Major League Baseball with Mark Shapiro
The Science of Dream Teams with Mike Zani
Leaders Who Lust: Power, Money, Sex, and Success with Barbara Kellerman
 
For daily wisdom from our guests, be sure to follow us on LinkedIn. We’re on Instagram, Threads, and Twitter, too!
 
RESOURCES:  
To receive Dre’s daily motivational text message, text a “subscribe” request to 305-384-6894. There’s also plenty to learn on his website at https://www.workonyourgameuniversity.com.
 
He’s also written a lot of books, including but by no means limited to:
Work on Your Game (hardback = https://amzn.to/3OBZarp, Kindle = https://amzn.to/3OUP6KD)
The Third Day (paperback = https://amzn.to/3OVvWFt, Kindle = https://amzn.to/3scvoSM)
The Mental Handbook (paperback = https://amzn.to/3QF255j, Kindle = https://amzn.to/3DWSrDJ)
 
Our host Maureen Metcalf posts a newsletter every week on LinkedIn. You can subscribe here. 
 
She’s also written several award-winning books on leadership development. You can peruse and purchase them here. 
 
 
Books we’re reading for fun or personal development right now include:
The Five Lost Superpowers: Why We Lost Them & Hot to Get Them Back by John Reid, et al
The Parable of the Sower by Octavia Butler
The Left Hand of Darkness by Ursula K. LeGuin
Snow White & the Seven Robots by Louise Simonson & Jimena Sanchez
 
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OUR PODCAST TEAM:  
Host & Executive Producer: Maureen Metcalf
Editor & Producer: Dan Mushalko
Video & Graphics Editor: Devon Mushalko
Assistant Editor & Raconteur: Luigi Morelli
Desperately Trying to Get Dan to Work on His Game: Jenna Reik & Mike Morrow-Fox
CONNECT WITH US: 
YouTube: @InnovatingLeadership 
Twitter: @IL_Institute 
Threads: @innovativeleaders
LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/ILI-LinkedIn2 
Instagram: @innovativeleader 
Website: InnovativeLeadershipInstitute.com 
 
Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating! 
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About Our Guest:  
In just 5 years, Dre Baldwin went from the end of his high school team's bench, to the first contract of a 9-year professional basketball career.
While playing professional basketball, Dre pioneered new genres of personal branding and entrepreneurship via an ever-growing content publishing empire.
Dre started blogging in 2005 and began publishing videos to YouTube in 2006. He has published over 8,000 videos to 137,000+ subscribers, his content being viewed over 73 million times to date.
Dre's daily Work On Your Game Podcast MasterClass has over 1,700 episodes and more than 3 million downloads.
Dre has given 4 TEDxTalks on Discipline, Confidence, Mental Toughness & Personal Initiative and has authored 29 books. He has appeared in national campaigns with Nike, Finish Line, Wendy's, Gatorade, Buick, Wilson Sports, STASH Investments and DIME magazine.
A Philadelphia native and Penn State alum, Dre lives in Miami.

S9-Ep34: Sheba & ShEquity: Empowering Women-Owned Businesses

Guest: Pauline Koelbl
40% of small and medium-sized businesses in Africa are owned by women. But expanding those businesses is tough: in 2022, single female founders and exclusively-female founding teams received only around 2.4% of investments that went to startups in Africa. Pauline Koelbl is out to change that and narrow the extreme gender gap.
Born in Rwanda, Pauline faced the challenges of life as a young refugee yet managed to secure not one but two Fulbright scholarships. Now she leads ShEquity, an impact investing fund addressing the gender funding gap in Africa. Discover how she’s shaping the future for women-owned businesses in Africa in this follow-up episode.
Here's what Pauline and host Maureen Metcalf cover:
Why investing in women-led businesses does double duty as an investment in community, much more effectively than with men-led firms;
Breaking down the misconceptions around African women in business – and of the African business climate in general; and
The far-reaching impacts of the companies ShEquity has invested in so far.
 
Other episodes you'll enjoy:
- ShEquity - A Refugee’s Path to Empowering Women & Their Businesses with Pauline Koelbl
- You Are Enough, You Are Worthy: Leadership Lessons for Women with Betsy Myers
- Epic! The Women’s Power Playbook with Carolyn Buck Luce
For daily wisdom from our guests, be sure to follow us on LinkedIn. We’re on Instagram,and Twitter, too!
 
RESOURCES:  
Learn more about Pauline’s impact fund, ShEquity, on the web at https://shequity.com.
 
Our host, Maureen Metcalf, posts a newsletter every week on LinkedIn. You can subscribe here. 
 
She’s also written several award-winning books on leadership development. You can peruse and purchase them here. 
 
 
Books we’re reading for fun or personal development right now include:
The Count of Monte Cristo by Alexandre Dumas
Every Man a King by Walter Mosley
Americanah by Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie
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OUR PODCAST TEAM:  
Host & Executive Producer: Maureen Metcalf
Editor & Producer: Dan Mushalko
Video & Graphics Editor: Devon Mushalko
Assistant Editor: Luigi Morelli
Majority Investors in this Podcast: Jenna Reik & Mike Morrow-Fox
CONNECT WITH US: 
Facebook: facebook.com/Innovativeleadership 
YouTube: @InnovatingLeadership 
Twitter: @IL_Institute 
Mastodon: @InnoLeader 
LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/ILI-LinkedIn2 
Instagram: @innovativeleader 
Website: InnovativeLeadershipInstitute.com 
Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating! 
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About Our Guest:  
ShEquity’s Founder & Managing Partner, Pauline is a gender-lens/impact investor and a leading innovation expert in developing & emerging economies with over 20 years of experience in international affairs and venture philanthropy. ShEquity provides smart investment to impactful and scalable African female-led and owned businesses. Pauline also has 11+ years of experience catalyzing innovation and supporting SMES/startups across Africa. Her passion lies in innovation, entrepreneurship, and economic empowerment of youth and women.
 
A double Fulbright Scholar and Fellow, Pauline holds an Executive Education in Innovation for Economic Development from Harvard University, John F. Kennedy School of Government; a Master’s Degree (MA) in Poverty and Development, Institute of Development Studies (IDS) from the University of Sussex, United Kingdom and a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in International Studies (Honors) from the University of Arizona (UoA), USA. In 2022, Pauline was recognized as one of 100 Leaders building ‘Meaningful Business’, combining profit and purpose to help achieve the UN Global Goals.

S9-Ep33: The Human Energy Crisis at Work

Guest: Joshua Freedman
Gallup and other surveys are showing employee disengagement at record highs. The human energy crisis is at its root. This energy crisis isn’t due to staff skipping breakfast and coffee in the morning; it’s the result of stunningly low emotional intelligence (or EQ) with American bosses.
We can’t answer it by becoming more like Vulcans; the lack of emphasis on emotional intelligence is causing strained relationships, reduced collaboration, toxic work atmospheres, disengagement, and mental health issues. Fortunately, Joshua Freedman of Six Seconds has solutions. In this episode, he helps you discover how prioritizing emotional intelligence can bring about a transformative shift in your organization’s success…and its profitability.
Here's what Joshua and host Maureen Metcalf cover:
The integral role trust plays in creating robust teams and sustainable success;
The correlation between emotional intelligence and higher performance (we’re talking 22 times higher!); and
The surprising real cause of burnout – it’s not overwork!
 
LANGUAGE ADVISORY: The term “s**t show” appears twice at (33:25). We retained it here because of the phrase’s common usage in many American workplaces.
Other episodes you'll enjoy:
Getting Lost in the Language of Leadership with Jonathan Reams
Lead Responsibly: An Absolut with Ann Mukherjee
Working and Living in Joy with Pamela Larde
 
For daily wisdom from our guests, be sure to follow us on LinkedIn. We’re on Instagram, Threads, and Twitter, too!
RESOURCES:  
The website for Joshua’s company, Six Seconds, is https://www.6seconds.org.
He’s a prolific writer, too! Just a few of his books on emotional intelligence include:
At the Heart of Leadership: How to Get Results with Emotional Intelligence (Paperback = https://amzn.to/44ReiIr or Kindle = https://amzn.to/3OlJ0T9)
Whole-Hearted Parenting: How to Use Emotional Intelligence to Create More Peace, Connection, and Joy (Paperback = https://amzn.to/3qjDJmT or Kindle = https://amzn.to/3qgPWsM) and
Inside Change: Transforming Your Organization with Emotional Intelligence with Massimiliano Ghini (Paperback = https://amzn.to/3QgzGCC or Kindle = https://amzn.to/3OgM2YU)
 
Here’s the article on the human energy crisis from Kathleen Hogan, Microsoft’s Chief People Officer, which Joshua mentioned:  https://www.fastcompany.com/90872995/microsoft-chief-people-officer-we-are-experiencing-a-global-human-energy-crisis.
 
And here is the US Surgeon General’s framework for workplace mental health and well-being:  https://www.hhs.gov/surgeongeneral/priorities/workplace-well-being/index.html.
 
Our host, Maureen Metcalf, posts a newsletter every week on LinkedIn. You can subscribe here. 
 
She’s also written several award-winning books on leadership development. You can peruse and purchase them here. 
 
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OUR PODCAST TEAM:  
Host & Executive Producer: Maureen Metcalf
Editor & Producer: Dan Mushalko
Video & Graphics Editor: Devon Mushalko
Assistant Editor: Luigi Morelli
Holding a Gamut of Positive Emotions: Jenna Reik & Mike Morrow-Fox
CONNECT WITH US: 
Facebook: facebook.com/Innovativeleadership 
YouTube: @InnovatingLeadership 
Twitter: @IL_Institute 
Mastodon: @InnoLeader 
LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/ILI-LinkedIn2 
Instagram: @innovativeleader 
Website: InnovativeLeadershipInstitute.com 
Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating! 
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About Our Guest:  
Joshua is the author of books, articles, case studies, and psychometric assessments related to emotional intelligence (EQ). He’s a Master Certified Coach (ICF) and the CEO and cofounder of Six Seconds, the global community for EQ. Six Seconds is the world’s first & largest network of emotional intelligence practitioners and researchers with 25 offices globally. As a consultant, facilitator, or coach, Joshua's clients include FedEx, Intel, Etihad Airways, Amazon, Microsoft, the UN, and all branches of the US armed services. Joshua co-developed Six Seconds’ EQ Certification Training which he has delivered on five continents as master-trainer to thousands of professionals seeking practical tools for learning and teaching emotional intelligence.

S9-Ep32: Back to the Future...of Work

Guests: Jim Ritchie-Dunham, Suzie Lewis, & David Dinwoodie
Here’s a common business myth: the key to navigating all the complexity increasing in the world is simply working harder and longer. But the results aren’t there. Neither is the science.
 
In reality, the future of work requires agility, and adaptive problem-solving. In this episode, guests Jim Ritchie-Dunham, Suzie Lewis, and David Dinwoodie bring their expertise with host Maureen Metcalf about what works – and what doesn’t – in company cultures.
Here's what our guests cover:
Why we need to rely on the people in our personal and professional networks (and the fact that you can only manage 15 of them effectively);
The importance of your own vertical development (not just developing expertise in your field); and
How personal flourishing is important for leaders and their teams.
 
Other episodes you'll enjoy:
- The Power of Passion & Perseverance – Four Levels of Grit with Jim Ritchie-Dunham
- The Science Behind Our Yes! with Jim Ritchie-Dunham
- Flex: The Art & Science of Leadership in a Changing World with Jeff Hull
 
 
For daily wisdom from our guests, be sure to follow us on LinkedIn. We’re on Instagram and Twitter, too!
 
RESOURCES:  
Details about the Global Flourishing Study our guests mentioned are online at https://hfh.fas.harvard.edu/global-flourishing-study. The article on the navigating complexity and the future of work by Jim, Suzie, & David is available in its original Spanish version at https://www.harvard-deusto.com/navegar-por-la-incertidumbre-y-aprender-con-agilidad-claves-en-el-trabajo-del-futuro.
 
David and Jim have also written books, including:
Ecosynomics: The Science of Abundance by Jim Ritchie-Dunham
Becoming a Strategic Leader by David Dinwoodie et al.
Learn more about Suzie’s company, Transform for Value, at https://transformforvalue.com.
 
Our host, Maureen Metcalf, posts a newsletter every week on LinkedIn. You can subscribe here. 
 
She’s also written several award-winning books on leadership development. You can peruse and purchase them here. 
 
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OUR PODCAST TEAM:  
Host & Executive Producer: Maureen Metcalf
Editor & Producer: Dan Mushalko
Video & Graphics Editor: Devon Mushalko
Assistant Editor: Luigi Morelli
Getting Back to Their Futures: Jenna Reik & Mike Morrow-Fox
CONNECT WITH US: 
YouTube: @InnovatingLeadership 
Twitter: @IL_Institute 
Threads: @innovativeleaders
LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/ILI-LinkedIn2 
Instagram: @innovativeleader 
Website: InnovativeLeadershipInstitute.com 
Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating! 
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About Our Guests:  
 
David Dinwoodie
David L. Dinwoodie has collaborated with the Center for Creative Leadership (CCL) for over 15 years as a researcher, author, educator, and coach. As Vice-President of Global Leadership Solutions managed CCL’s global portfolio of Open Enrolment Programs, Corporate Learning Solutions, Coaching and Assessment Services across 12 campuses worldwide servicing 3,000 client organizations and over 30,000 individuals each year.  David is co-author of the book Becoming a Strategic Leader: Your Role in Your Organization's Enduring Success. He is an Advisory Board member for the Penn State School of Graduate Education (SMEAL) and Developing Leaders Quarterly.
 
Suzie Lewis
Suzie Lewis is founder and managing director of Transform for Value, and an executive fellow at the Centre for the Future of Organisation, an independent think tank at the Drucker School of Management. Suzie is a global business leader, speaker, podcast host, and executive coach with extensive experience in driving international transformation projects, in preparing business leaders and employees for change, and bridging the gap between human and digital ecosystems. Her quest is to build more inclusive & collaborative environments, placing the onus on how to drive value through people as well as data and processes to drive sustainable change.
 
James Ritchie-Dunham
James L. Ritchie-Dunham, PhD is president of the Institute for Strategic Clarity, affiliated with Boston College, Harvard, and author/co-author of Leadership for Flourishing (forthcoming), Agreements (2023), Ecosynomics (2014), Managing from Clarity (2001), and many chapters and articles. He blogs regularly at jlrd.me.  His global research, surveying over 132,000 groups in 126 countries, shows (1) that you prefer abundance-based agreements to scarcity-based ones, (2) lots of people have figured out how to live this way, for decades, with far better results and experiences, and (3) you can choose to shift your agreements, experiences, and outcomes to abundance-based.

S9-Ep31: Why Pet-Friendly Means Productivity-Friendly in this Mars VP’s Workplace

Guest: Lisa Campbell
Pets in the workplace can boost productivity, well-being, and those vaunted “water cooler” conversations. (Although they become “water bowl” conversations instead…)
 
Those are just some of the benefits for both businesses and employees Lisa Campbell, VP of Corporate Affairs for Mars Pet Nutrition North America, shares in this episode. Sure, there’s some prep work to be done, but the benefits are many and lasting. If you’ve been thinking of (literally!) letting your workplace go to the dogs, this is a must-listen podcast. 
So sit, stay, and hit play. That’s a good listener!
Here's what Lisa and host Maureen Metcalf cover:
What to consider as you design your pet-friendly work environment;
The multitude of benefits to your staff (and ultimately your bottom line); and
How to avoid potential pet-friendly pitfalls, such as accommodating people with pet allergies.
 
Other episodes you'll enjoy:
Do It on Purpose with Nell Derick Debevoise
Leading with Care and Purpose with Raj Sisodia & Sudhanshu Palsuleand
Intentional Leadership in a New Work World with Monique Jefferson
 
For daily wisdom from our guests, be sure to follow us on LinkedIn. We’re on Instagram and Twitter, too!
 
RESOURCES:  
The Cesar website with information on going dog-friendly at work is https://www.cesar.com/dog-friendly.
 
You can learn more about Mars’ dog-friendly cities program at https://www.bettercitiesforpets.com.
 
Our host Maureen Metcalf posts a newsletter every week on LinkedIn. You can subscribe here. 
 
She’s also written several award-winning books on leadership development. You can peruse and purchase them here. 
 
 
Books we’re reading for fun or personal development right now include:
Chocolate Wars: The 150-Year Rivalry Between the World’s Greatest Chocolate Makers by Deborah Cadbury (Paperback: https://amzn.to/44tMfOZ or Kindle: https://amzn.to/3XWJ2VO)
Vic and Blood: The Continuing Adventures of a Boy and His Dog by Harlan Elllison & Richard Corben (Paperback: https://amzn.to/3Q3Blv8)
Charlie & the Chocolate Factory by Roald Dahl (Paperback: https://amzn.to/3DoPStC or Kindle: https://amzn.to/46WA5A4)
 
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OUR PODCAST TEAM:  
Host & Executive Producer: Maureen Metcalf
Editor & Producer: Dan Mushalko
Video & Graphics Editor: Devon Mushalko
Assistant Editor & Raconteur: Luigi Morelli
Keepers of the Golden Ticket: Jenna Reik & Mike Morrow-Fox
 
CONNECT WITH US: 
YouTube: @InnovatingLeadership 
Twitter: @IL_Institute 
Threads: @innovativeleaders
LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/ILI-LinkedIn2 
Instagram: @innovativeleader 
Website: InnovativeLeadershipInstitute.com 
Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating!
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About Our Guest:
Lisa Campbell is Mars Pet Nutrition North America’s Vice President of Corporate Affairs, leading the full Corporate Affairs enterprise communications strategy including internal communications, executive communications, corporate and brand reputation, crisis and issues management, media relations, consumer care, sustainability initiatives and stakeholder engagement, all in service of the company’s purpose: A BETTER WORLD FOR PETS.
 
 
 

S9-Ep30: Changing Leadership Mindsets - Psychedelics

Guest: Ehren Cruz
In this supplemental episode, we learn that psychedelic drugs have entered the C-suite. After decades as a societal pariah, why are psychedelics finding a home among America’s corporate leaders?
 
Focusing on plant medicine, Ehren Cruz gives some of the background, history, and science behind the many business uses leaders are finding. The Wall Street Journal is paying attention – so we’re taking a look at it, too.
Here's what Ehren and host Maureen Metcalf cover:
The goals leaders have for their psychedelic journeys;
The neurochemistry behind these plant medicines; and
The difference between therapeutic and ceremonial techniques in safe – and legal – psychedelic use.
 
Other episodes you'll enjoy:
Fringe or Mainstream? Leaders Explore Psychedelics with Paul Austin
Reality Lost: How Disinformation Shapes Your World with Tara McGowan
Leading Edge 120: Getting Higher Up the Chain with Greg Moran
 
For daily wisdom from our guests, be sure to follow us on LinkedIn. We’re on Instagram and Twitter, too!
 
RESOURCES:  
You’ll find more information about Ehren’s work on his website at https://thesparc.co.
 
Our host, Maureen Metcalf, posts a newsletter every week on LinkedIn. You can subscribe here. 
 
She’s also written several award-winning books on leadership development. You can peruse and purchase them here. 
 
 
Books we’re reading for fun or personal development right now include:
The Teachings of Don Juan: A Yaqui Way of Knowledge by Carlos Castaneda
The Doors of Perception by Aldous Huxley
X-Men Archives #3: Legion by Chris Claremont & Bill Sienkiewicz
 
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OUR PODCAST TEAM:  
Host & Executive Producer: Maureen Metcalf
Editor & Producer: Dan Mushalko
Video & Graphics Editor: Devon Mushalko
Asst. Editor: Luigi Morelli
Companions on the Journey: Jenna Reik & Mike Morrow-Fox
CONNECT WITH US: 
Facebook: facebook.com/Innovativeleadership 
YouTube: @InnovatingLeadership 
Twitter: @IL_Institute 
LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/ILI-LinkedIn2 
Instagram: @innovativeleader 
Website: InnovativeLeadershipInstitute.com 
Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating! 
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About Our Guest:  
Ehren Cruz is a historian & anthropologist, Third Wave Psychedelic Certified Coach (CCP1), CTA & ICF Professional Certified Coach (PCC), Master Ceremonialist, Trained Harm Reductionist, loving husband & proud father. He is devoted to the healing & self-actualization of self & others in all facets of his life.
For over a decade, Ehren dedicated his life to the creation of experiences that ignite the mind, inspire the heart, and empower our communities. From reimagining organizational culture to transforming the face of festivals & events, his success is rooted in the fostering of environments that welcome and encourage self-actualization, team synergy, and inspired creative expression. Between 2009-2019, Ehren produced, curated, and served as Master of Ceremonies for events welcoming over 300K patrons, hailing from 80 different nations, including 5400+ performers, 3000+ individual shows, 1650+ workshops, and countless immersive experiences – setting a new bar for what’s possible when converging visionary art, music, culture, & spirit into the alchemy of intentional festival settings.
After a decade as an award-winning producer & high-performance team builder, netting over $100M in gross regional income through festivals & events, in early 2021 Ehren founded The SpArc: a groundbreaking coaching approach that utilizes rites of passage immersive experiences to dramatically elevate awareness, embodiment, and impact.

S9-Ep29: Seeking Success in Simplicity

Guest: Rini Das
Simplify. Streamline. Succeed. Seems simple enough, but most big organizations do the opposite, bogging teams down with more and more complexity. But as the world itself becomes more complex and changes (like AI) arrive more rapidly, resilience is absolutely key for any organization’s survival – much less success!
 
Rini Das knows complexity; she worked in healthcare early in her career, which has layers upon layers of processes. Fortunately, she knows simplicity and resilience, too. In this episode, she reveals the ironies and challenges faced by leaders striving to create simpler, more adaptable companies in the face of VUCA. She shares solutions, too!
Here's what Rini and host Maureen Metcalf cover:
How to foster resilience – making your organization strong against the unpredictable;
Dissecting the potentials and pitfalls of using AI to revolutionize your operations; and
Your role in confidently steering your team through changing tides.
 
Other episodes you'll enjoy:
Simplify Work: Crushing Complexity with Jesse W. Newton
Facing Uncertainty: It’s VUCA with Chris Nolan
Uncharted: How to Map the Future Together with Margaret Heffernan
 
For daily wisdom from our guests, be sure to follow us on LinkedIn. We’re on Instagram, Threads, and Twitter, too!
 
RESOURCES:  
More information on Rini’s leadership work is on the RD Management Consulting website: https://www.rdmchelps.com.
The organization for LGBTQ+ professionals in tech that Rini cofounded is Zettabytes.Today.
 
Our host, Maureen Metcalf, posts a newsletter every week on LinkedIn. You can subscribe here. 
 
She’s also written several award-winning books on leadership development. You can peruse and purchase them here. 
 
 
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OUR PODCAST TEAM:  
Host & Executive Producer: Maureen Metcalf
Editor & Producer: Dan Mushalko
Video & Graphics Editor: Devon Mushalko
Complex People in our Simple Company: Luigi Morelli & Jenna Reik
 
CONNECT WITH US: 
YouTube: @InnovatingLeadership 
Twitter: @IL_Institute 
Threads: @innovativeleaders
LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/ILI-LinkedIn2 
Instagram: @innovativeleader 
Website: InnovativeLeadershipInstitute.com 
 
Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating! 
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About Our Guest:  
Rini Das (She, Her, Hers) is a serial entrepreneur, having founded her first company to provide STEM tutoring when she was 15 years old. She founded and led various startups such as a gamification SaaS company -- PAKRAGames.com -- and a big data consulting company -- DemsWin.com. 
At her core, she considers herself as Mary Poppins, she likes to fly in with her umbrella, solve problems and fly away. She founded RD Management Consulting Inc. (RDMCHelps.com) in 2003. 
She brings decades of experience in M&A consulting, Operational Excellence and Lean Six Sigma, IT Leadership Excellence, Software Development, User adoption and Data Science and Analytics.
She has taught at various universities. She holds an MA in economics from Stony Brook University (SUNY) and an MS in applied mathematics from the University of Iowa. She is the co-founder of Zettabytes.Today - a networking organization for LGBTQ+ professionals in Tech. 

S9-Ep28: ITP - Building the Resilience Every Leader Needs

Guests: Christina Grote and Pam Kramer
We tell our teams not to stress, and to have a good work-life balance. But what about us: their leaders? Too often, leaders ignore their own advice – and the stress becomes overwhelming.
 
Integral Transformative Practice (ITP) is one answer. More than just another mindfulness practice, it’s a way of growing and developing, created to help you explore your full potential. In short, to help your skills and talents move from ordinary to extraordinary!
In this episode, Christina and Pam go over the basics of ITP, the philosophies and origins of the concept, and even walk us through one of the practices.
Here's what Pam, Christina, and host Maureen Metcalf cover:
How we hold ourselves back from achieving our full potential;
The core practice intentions of ITP; and
The special role ITP can play for leaders, in particular.
 
Other episodes you'll enjoy:
- The Anxious Achiever with Morra Aarons-Mele
- Staying Cool in Challenging Situations with Janet Fouts
- Integrating Integrative Medicine in Leadership with Dr. Maryanna Klatt
 
For daily wisdom from our guests, be sure to follow us on LinkedIn. We’re on Instagram and Twitter, too!
 
RESOURCES:  
Christina and Pam’s book is Living an Extraordinary Life – it’s available in paperback at https://amzn.to/46wvZ1j and on Kindle at https://amzn.to/3JIfHIT.
 
Another book they mentioned is the foundational The Life We Are Given by George Leonard & Michael Murphy (paperback: https://amzn.to/46AqcaP).Of course, they have lots of information on their website: https://www.itp-international.org.
 
Our host Maureen Metcalf posts a newsletter every week on LinkedIn. You can subscribe here. 
 
She’s also written several award-winning books on leadership development. You can peruse and purchase them here. 
 
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OUR PODCAST TEAM:  
Host & Executive Producer: Maureen Metcalf
Editor & Producer: Dan Mushalko
Video & Graphics Editor: Devon Mushalko
Assistant Editor: Luigi Morelli
Integral to Our Success: Jenna Reik & Connor Carson
CONNECT WITH US: 
YouTube: @InnovatingLeadership 
Twitter: @IL_Institute 
LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/ILI-LinkedIn2 
Instagram: @innovativeleader 
Website: InnovativeLeadershipInstitute.com 
Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating! 
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About Our Guests:  
Christina Grote is the board chair of ITP International and has been a practitioner of Integral Transformative Practice since 2003. She is a licensed massage therapist and her interest in natural healing led her to explore ITP and include it in her work. She founded ITP Columbus in 2004, which continued for many years. She has designed and taught ITP workshops and planned numerous conferences with longtime friend, collaborator, and ITPI president Pamela Kramer. Christina lives in Columbus, Ohio, with her husband Jim.
 
Pamela Kramer is President of ITP International, a nonprofit organization that stewards ITP and the work of its founders, George Leonard and Michael Murphy. Pam is an ITP Mastery teacher, is on the faculty of Esalen Institute, and presents workshops at venues in the US and abroad. She is engaged in training ITP teachers, forming ITP groups, and bringing integral principles and practices to the workplace. Pam is an executive coach and consults with organizations and their leaders in the San Francisco Bay Area.

S9-Ep27: The Anxious Achiever

Guest: Morra Aarons-Mele
Does anxiety plague your leadership role? Just push through it isn’t a solution: the constant stress and strain of anxiety can take a toll on both your mental health and workplace performance. It's time to stop ignoring the issue and start implementing effective strategies to manage anxiety.
Morra Aarons-Mele lives with anxiety, too, but has researched it deeply. Now, she’s dedicated to helping others navigate its challenges. In this episode, Morra shares her personal story with host Maureen Metcalf, and offers practical advice for anxious leaders across all industries. The unexpected twist? It turns out, anxiety can actually be a source of motivation and drive. Listen to learn more!
Here's what Morra and Maureen cover:
The scale of anxiety, depression, and other mental health issues;
Why they are so important to acknowledge in the workplace; and
How anxiety affects your own leadership…and your team’s well-being.
 
Other episodes you'll enjoy:
Leadership Is Relationships with Kvon Tucker
A Cure for Toxic Leadership with Raj Subrameyer
Remote Work and Mental Well-Being with Dr. Gleb Tsipursky
 
For daily wisdom from our guests, be sure to follow us on LinkedIn. We’re on Instagram and Twitter, too!
 
RESOURCES:  
Morra’s new book, The Anxious Achiever, is available in hardback at https://amzn.to/3pkND7o and on Kindle at https://amzn.to/3puFYU1.
 
Her previous book, Hiding in the Bathroom: How to Get Out There When You’d Rather Stay Home, is also available in paperback at https://amzn.to/46nUcql and in Kindle format at https://amzn.to/3JwnVnl. 
 
Morra’s podcast is on all major platforms. You can hear sample episodes — and learn more about her consulting work — on her website at https://morraam.com.
 
Our host, Maureen Metcalf, posts a newsletter every week on LinkedIn. You can subscribe here. 
 
She’s also written several award-winning books on leadership development. You can peruse and purchase them here. 
 
 
Books we’re reading for fun or personal development right now include:
Jessica Jones: Alias by Brian Michael Bendis
Watership Down by Richard Adams
The Five Lost Superpowers: Why We Lost Them & Hot to Get Them Back by John Reid, et al
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OUR PODCAST TEAM:  
Host & Executive Producer: Maureen Metcalf
Editor & Producer: Dan Mushalko
Video & Graphics Editor: Devon Mushalko
Assistant Editor: Luigi Morelli
Bon Vivants: Jenna Reik & Connor Carson
CONNECT WITH US: 
YouTube: @InnovatingLeadership 
Twitter: @IL_Institute 
LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/ILI-LinkedIn2 
Instagram: @innovativeleader 
Website: InnovativeLeadershipInstitute.com 
Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating! 
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About Our Guest:  
 
Morra Aarons-Mele is the host of The Anxious Achiever, a top-10 management podcast that helps people rethink the relationship between their mental health and their leadership. Morra founded Women Online and The Mission List, an award-winning digital-consulting firm and influencer marketing company dedicated to social change in 2010 and sold her businesses in 2021. She helped Hillary Clinton log on for her first internet chat and has launched digital campaigns for President Obama, Malala Yousafzai, the United Nations, the CDC, and many other leading figures and organizations. She lives outside Boston with her family and menagerie. For more details, visit www.theanxiousachiever.com.

S9-Ep26: Working & Living in Joy

Guest: Pamela Larde, Ph.D.
Does the struggle to balance work and personal life sound familiar? Have you bought the myth that working harder leads to? You’re not alone. But the truth is, that leads to burnout, stress, and decreased productivity. It’s time to break free and discover the power of joy in professional settings. By prioritizing joy and well-being, you can enhance your personal and professional life, build mental stamina, and create a positive work environment.
Pamela Larde joins us with details on building your joy. And by incorporating joy into your leadership approach, you can foster a culture that is not only successful but also fulfilling for both you and your team. Join us to learn how to integrate joy into your workplace and achieve the results you want.
Here's what Pamela and host Maureen Metcalf cover:
The difference between joy and happiness;
How leaders can help their teams find joy – and how that benefits your organization; and
The personal benefits of fostering joy and well-being in your own life.
 
Other episodes you'll enjoy:
Joy at Work! With Roxanne Brown & Edward Cook
Finding Meaning, Joy, & Purpose in What You Do with Paul Gibbons
The Science Behind Our Yes! with Jim Ritchie-Dunham
 
For daily wisdom from our guests, be sure to follow us on LinkedIn. We’re on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, too!
 
RESOURCES:  
Pamela has a bounty of resources on the practice and science of joy on her website: www.thejoywhisperer.org.
 
Her upcoming book is Joyfully Single. While you wait for it to be released, check out her current book: Letters to the Brokenhearted.
 
Our host Maureen Metcalf posts a newsletter every week on LinkedIn. You can subscribe here. 
 
She’s also written several award-winning books on leadership development. You can peruse and purchase them here. 
 
 
Books we’re reading for fun or personal development right now include:
Hello, I Must Be Going: The Mostly True Story of an Imaginary Band by David Meyers
The Parable of the Sower by Octavia Butler
The Left Hand of Darkness by Ursula K. LeGuin
Snow White & the Seven Robots by Louise Simonson & Jimena Sanchez
 
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OUR PODCAST TEAM:  
Host & Executive Producer: Maureen Metcalf
Editor & Producer: Dan Mushalko
Video & Graphics Editor: Devon Mushalko
Asst. Editor: Luigi Morelli
Joyful Podcast Support Personages: Jenna Reik & Connor Carson
CONNECT WITH US: 
YouTube: @InnovatingLeadership 
Twitter: @IL_Institute 
LinkedIn: https://bit.ly/ILI-LinkedIn2 
Instagram: @innovativeleader 
Website: InnovativeLeadershipInstitute.com 
Loved this episode? Leave us a review and rating! 
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About Our Guest:  
Dr. Pamela Larde, a professor, coach, award-winning author, and business owner, is committed to engaging in the work of advancing the reach and commitment of the coaching profession to serve and build up heart-centered leaders. In 2013, she founded the Academy of Creative Coaching, which was among the first of black female-owned ICF-accredited coaching schools in the world. As a scholar with a strong interest in helping people overcome barriers through the art and science of coaching, her research focuses on joy, justice, self-motivation, resilience, and posttraumatic growth.