Do Good To Lead Well with Craig Dowden

Can small, meaningful interactions transform leadership and organizational success? Join us as we explore this fascinating question with Zach Mercurio, an authority in purposeful leadership and positive organizational psychology. Through Zach's compelling research, we uncover the concept of "mattering" in the workplace, a crucial element often overlooked amidst traditional rewards like pay raises and promotions. As employees grapple with feelings of invisibility, Zach introduces the idea of a "mattering deficit" and shares his insights on how leaders can create cultures where every team member feels valued and significant, elevating both well-being and performance.Our conversation with Zach also explores the profound impact of genuine care and connection in leadership. We address the distinction between caring about and caring for team members, emphasizing the importance of intentionality in leaders' actions. Unconscious signals can undermine employees' sense of mattering, and Zach provides practical strategies to ensure leaders' good intentions translate into meaningful daily practices. From understanding the role of "soft skills" to recognizing the subtle biases that can lead to complacency, we explore ways to build a supportive environment that fosters true belonging.Finally, we touch upon the critical role of noticing and affirming those we rely on at work. By moving beyond transactional interactions to transformational ones, leaders can create a more inclusive atmosphere. We share techniques like the green, yellow, red check-in to gauge emotional states and Carl Rogers' active listening principles, vital for building meaningful relationships. As we consider the intersection of AI and human connection, this episode promises a thought-provoking discussion on how recognizing and valuing each other can empower teams and, ultimately, transform organizations.What You’ll Learn- The critical nuances between caring about and caring for your team- Shifting from transactional to transformational interactions- The significance of emotional connections in communication and decision-making- The paradox of leadership: empowering teams by letting go- The vital role of soft skills and the intersection of AI and human connectionPodcast Timestamps(00:03) – The Power of Mattering (in Leadership)(12:14) - The Importance of Caring for Others(18:36) – What It Truly Means to Notice Someone(27:03) –Small Gestures Can Build Deep Emotional Connections(38:03) – How to Create Psychological Safety(48:02) - Empowering Leadership Through Relinquishing Control(54:29) - Mattering in an AI WorldKEYWORDSPositive Leadership, The Power of Mattering, Maximizing Engagement, Enhancing Well-being, A Culture of Caring, Practicing Empathy, Soft Skills Drive Hard Results, Deep Emotional Connections, Effective Communication, Building Trust, The Perils of Command and Control, Increasing Human Connection, Relational Economy, Creativity, CEO Success

Trailblazing leader Angela Bonfanti, the first female president and CEO of CNIB, joins me for this week’s episode of the Do Good to Lead Well podcast. Angela shares inspiring details of her personal and professional journey, driven by a deeply rooted connection to her father's experiences with blindness. Angela's story is a testament to how personal experiences shape professional paths, leading her to champion inclusivity and systemic change. Her insights on leading with purpose and finding one's "why" highlight how tangible leadership can enact real-time differences in the world.Angela's transformative leadership at the CNIB has spawned initiatives like the "Come to Work" program, which demonstrates how aligning purpose with action not only challenges stereotypes, it fosters inclusivity and opportunities for everyone. Her story is a powerful reminder that purpose-driven initiatives lead to both meaningful societal outcomes and enhanced organizational profitability/performance.This episode doesn't shy away from discussing the hard truths of leadership, such as navigating tough conversations, embracing vulnerability, and overcoming imposter syndrome. Angela offers practical advice on crafting personal purpose statements, integrating purpose into daily work, and using purpose to combat self-doubt. Her candid reflections provide invaluable guidance for leaders aspiring to strengthen their leadership journey and leave a lasting impact.Creating Your Personal Purpose StatementAngela shared her personal purpose statement on the podcast. Here it is:“I lead to challenge limits- real or assumed- and to build systems that reflect the dignity, potential and power of every person.My purpose as a leader is to turn barriers into breakthroughs and to move organizations from intention to impact, and to ensure no one is left behind in the process of progress.”To assist you in crafting yours, here is some advice from Angela:Reflect on your answers to the following questions.1. What impact do I want to make on the people, organization, or world around me? Why do I show up every day?2. What principles do I refuse to compromise on- even under pressure?3. If people talked about my leadership 20 years from now, what would I hope they’d sayThen write your purpose statement: “My purpose as a leader is to…” Keep it to one or two sentences. It should be true, bold, and feel just a bit scary to say out loud.Here’s another powerful quote from Angela: “When we lead with purpose, we don’t just change outcomes, we change what’s possible!”Good luck and share your purpose statements in the comments!What You’ll Learn- Insights into purpose-driven leadership and how it can transform organizations- Strategies for overcoming challenges and turning them into opportunities- Social good and organizational excellence go hand in hand- How to be an effective advocate- Purpose as an antidote to impostor syndrome- How to craft your own personal purpose statementPodcast Timestamps(00:00) – Angela’s Path to Leading with Purpose(11:48) – Breaking Barriers: Doing Good Drives Organizational Success(21:20) – Actively Listen to Lead with Impact(31:53) – Embrace Challenges and Learn from Setbacks: The Pathway to Leadership Excellence(41:57) – The Power of Reflection for Purposeful Leadership(52:49) – Overcoming Imposter SyndromeKEYWORDSPositive Leadership, Leading with Purpose, Inclusive Leadership, Systemic Change, Advocacy, Transformative Journey, Driving Impact, Navigating Tough Conversations, Managing Polarized Environments, Constructive Dialogue, Resilience, Vulnerability, Pilot Projects, Intentionality, Humility, Overcoming Imposter Syndrome, Creating A Legacy, Personal Growth; Self-Awareness, CEO Success

Elizabeth Weingarten, a journalist and applied behavioral scientist, shares her journey through the labyrinth of life's uncertainties in our latest episode. As she faced personal challenges in her marriage and career, she found solace and guidance not in conventional advice, but in the words of Rainer Maria Rilke's "Letters to a Young Poet." Elizabeth's new book, "How to Fall in Love with Questions," is a testament to the power of thoughtful inquiry in an uncertain world. She unveils how embracing questions, rather than fearing them, can lead to personal growth and deeper connections.This episode also tackles the importance of resisting the constant pull of technology for quick answers and instead invites listeners to build resilience by living with uncertainty in everyday situations. By nurturing this practice, we discover how to manage life's bigger, more ambiguous questions with courage and self-awareness.Listeners will find inspiration in creating a "questions practice," an approach that fosters curiosity, conversation, community, and commitment. Learn to transform limiting questions into ones that open possibilities and guide you towards your true desires. With practical examples and strategies, Elizabeth illustrates how open-ended questions can enhance relationships and foster a collaborative spirit, especially within teams. This episode is a call to view uncertainty as an opportunity for growth, to embrace diverse perspectives, and to transform questioning into a powerful tool for personal and professional development.What You’ll Learn- The transformative power of embracing questions during uncertain times- How thoughtful inquiry can ignite personal growth- Strategies for building resilience through the art of questioning- Ways to forge deeper connections in personal relationships using questions- Techniques to enhance professional interactions by embracing curiosity- The empowering and inspiring effects of incorporating questions into daily lifePodcast Timestamps(00:00) - Falling in Love With Questions – A Personal Journey(12:33) – Questions As Acts of Courage(20:22) – What Is A Questions Practice?(34:09) – The Power of Open-Ended Questions(43:25) – Creating A Team Culture That Embraces Questions(51:24) – Questions to Keep and Questions to Let GoKEYWORDSPositive Leadership, Navigating Uncertainty, The Power of Questions, Personal Growth, Leading with Courage, Vulnerability as Strength, Managing Technology, Enhancing Resilience, Deepening Relationships, Open-ended Questions, Positive Team Dynamics, The Benefits of Rituals, The Secrets to Collaboration, Raising Self-awareness, CEO Success

Jason Tham, co-founder and Chief Innovation Officer of Nulogy, joins the Do Good to Lead Well podcast to share his insights into effective leadership in a rapidly evolving world. Authenticity, relatability, and a compelling purpose are not just buzzwords for Jason—they're the foundation of a resilient leadership style that thrives on change. As we navigate complexities in fields like supply chain management, Jason emphasizes the critical role of adaptability and agility. His personal TEDx talk and numerous accolades craft a leadership narrative where values lead the way.Moving beyond traditional business frameworks, we explore the transformative power of core values in building purpose-driven organizations. Jason reveals the importance of prioritizing people and relationships over products, a strategy that has guided Nulogy to sustainable success. By focusing on co-creation and community, we discuss how maintaining alignment with an organization's North Star fosters growth and adaptability. With a culture rooted deeply in positive leadership, continuous improvement, and shared success, there's a refreshing take on how regular reflection and dialogue integrate new members into this thriving ecosystem.Resilience and mentorship take center stage as we uncover the intricate balance between persistence and knowing when to pivot. Jason shares personal stories that illuminate the journey through adversity and the empowering role of a supportive network. We weave in narratives of psychological safety, addressing loneliness at the top, and the insidious nature of imposter syndrome. He even shares a powerful leadership lesson he learned from his daughter. Listen in as Jason makes the compelling case that strong leadership is inextricably linked to authenticity, purpose, and the courage to embrace challenges while fostering an inclusive environment.What You’ll Learn- The transformative power of core values in building purpose-driven organizations.- How adaptability and agility are essential to navigate complex times.- The balance between persistence and knowing when to pivot.- The role of mentorship and a supportive network in fostering resilience.- Addressing challenges like imposter syndrome and fostering psychological safety within teams.Podcast Timestamps(00:02) – What are the Key Leadership Qualities in a Changing World?(14:09) - Strategic Alignment Through Core Values(26:21) - Building Resilience Through Mentorship(40:34) – Personal Journey of Resilience and Community(46:36) - Leadership and EmpowermentKEYWORDSPositive Leadership, Innovation, Authenticity, Adaptability, Agility, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Purpose, Resilience, Mentorship, Psychological Safety, Growth Mindset, Core Values, Continuous Learning, Overcoming Adversity, Maximizing Engagement, Energy Management, Learning Conversations, Values-Based Leadership, CEO Success

What if the most honest conversations people are having… aren’t with each other, but with artificial intelligence?In this eye-opening episode, Craig dives into recent Harvard Business Review research revealing the top 10 use cases for AI—and the findings are both fascinating and deeply human. The #1 reason people are turning to AI? Therapy. Not spreadsheets. Not task management. Therapy. Closely followed by “organizing my life” and “finding purpose.”This shift points to something powerful: people are craving spaces where they can be open, reflective, and vulnerable—without fear of judgment. And AI, for all its limitations, offers exactly that.So what does this mean for leadership? For workplace culture? And most importantly, for trust?Craig unpacks the message behind this trend and offers a provocative challenge for leaders: If your people feel safer confiding in a machine than in you, what needs to change?You’ll walk away with practical insights on:Why psychological safety is becoming a leadership imperativeHow to “listen like AI” to build deeper trust and connectionWhat empathy looks like in action—without overstepping or over fixingA powerful weekly challenge to shift from reactive to reflective leadershipThis episode is a wake-up call—and a call to action. In a world turning to AI for human connection, leaders who show up with empathy and presence have never been more important.

This week on the Do Good to Lead Well podcast I am joined by Martin Dubin, a seasoned clinical psychologist and business coach. We discuss his recently released book, "Blindspotting: How to See What's Holding You Back as a Leader." Martin's rich experience with 360-degree feedback highlights how a leader's strengths can sometimes inadvertently become weaknesses and why a heightened self-awareness is key in maintaining a balanced approach.We also tackle the complex web of unconscious biases and leadership blind spots, identifying six specific types that can impact our effectiveness. This engaging discussion anchors itself in a psychological model focused on the core motives driving behavior, with special attention to the needs for power, affiliation, and achievement. Martin touches on identity blind spots, where a disconnect between one's role and self-perception can create challenges, especially during transitions from individual contributor roles to managerial positions. He emphasizes the necessity of adapting one's identity to align with evolving roles and responsibilities.Finally, we tackle the emotional aspects of leadership, addressing the significance of emotional awareness for leadership success. A key skill is learning how to accurately identify and label a wide range of emotions. Martin and I also discuss the SBI (Situation, Behavior, Impact) framework, a powerful approach for promoting a culture of feedback and personal growth. The episode wraps up with an important discussion on the importance of authenticity and storytelling in leadership, providing valuable reflections and insights for leaders seeking to foster connections and drive positive change.What You’ll Learn- The delicate balance of strengths and weaknesses- Unconscious biases and six types of leadership blind spots- Identity transitions and redefining roles- Raising our emotional awareness and regulation- The interplay between imposter syndrome and authenticity- The power of the SBI frameworkPodcast Timestamps(00:00) – A Deep Exploration of Leadership Blind Spots(10:36) – The Six Types of Leadership Blind Spots(22:04) - Recognizing and Regulating Emotions in Leadership(29:00) - Navigating Imposter Syndrome and Authenticity(35:18) – The Importance of Identity Alignment(45:22) – Entrepreneurial Blind SpotsKEYWORDSPositive Leadership, Blind Spots, Self-Awareness, Leveraging Strengths, Managing Weaknesses, Unconscious Bias, Emotional Intelligence, Identity, Imposter Syndrome, Authenticity, Emotional Awareness, Culture of Feedback, Instilling Trust, Entrepreneurship, The Power of Storytelling, CEO Success

Join us for a compelling conversation with Geoff Woods, the visionary founder of AI Leadership and the bestselling author of The Ai-Driven Leader, as we discuss how to unleash the power of artificial intelligence in your leadership and your life. This episode promises to transform your understanding of AI, not as a magic bullet but as a thought partner that enhances your strategic thinking and decision-making. Geoff shares invaluable insights from his tenure at Jindal Steel and Power, emphasizing the pivotal role leaders play in driving AI's potential for real enterprise value. Learn how to embrace AI strategically to develop skills and achieve long-term goals, shattering the myth that technology alone can solve your business challenges.Leaders face the dual challenge of empowering growth-oriented team members while supporting those wary of AI's impact. Throughout the episode, we delve into practical strategies for fostering a growth mindset, using AI tools to unlock potential and drive innovation. Discover the CRIT prompt framework—Context, Role, Interview, Task—as a tool to turn AI into a strategic advisor.We also explore ethical leadership in the AI era and navigate the delicate balance between technology and humanity. Geoff and I delve into the importance of empathy, self-awareness, and maintaining data privacy amidst AI advancements. This episode offers a roadmap for leaders eager to redefine their organization's success through AI while keeping humans at the forefront of technological progress.What You’ll Learn- Discover innovative ways to integrate AI for enhanced decision-making.- Overcome apprehensions about AI and harness its full potential.- Champion ethical AI practices that align with human-centric values.- Transform AI into a dynamic partner for accelerating growth.- Ignite groundbreaking innovations through strategic AI collaboration.- Equip yourself with futuristic leadership skills in the age of AI.Podcast Timestamps(00:00) - The Ai-Driven Leader(09:06) - Empowering Growth and Overcoming Fear(17:30) - Strategic Planning Acceleration with AI(26:43) - Shaping the Future Workforce With AI(40:18) - Navigating Ethical Leadership in the AI Landscape(49:19) – Considerations for AI Usage, Data Privacy, etc.KEYWORDSPositive Leadership, AI, AI Leadership, Strategic Growth, Decision-making and artificial intelligence, Human-centric, Growth Mindset, Innovation, CRIT prompt, Increasing Collaboration, AI as Competitive Advantage, Virtual Personas, Adaptability, Ethical Considerations with AI, Data Privacy, ChatGPT, Resistance to AI, AI Transformation, CEO Success

Welcome to another enriching edition of the Do Good to Lead Well podcast series, where we explore the power of meaningful work and its profound impact on personal and professional growth. In this episode, I am thrilled to be joined by Wes Adams and Tamara Miles, the authors of "Meaningful Work". A serendipitous encounter evolved into extensive research and collaboration, gaining endorsements from global thought leaders like Adam Grant.Listen in as we challenge the common misconceptions about meaningful work, often assumed to be exclusive to certain professions. Wes and Tamara eloquently argue that meaningful work can be found in any role when it aligns with three core pillars: community, contribution, and challenge. Through compelling examples of janitors and hairstylists who find deep meaning in their daily tasks, we emphasize the role of leadership in shaping perceptions of meaningful work. Our conversation also addresses the hurdles leaders face with employees primarily motivated by financial incentives and how fostering a sense of community and purpose can enhance their work experience.Finally, we explore strategies for building meaningful work cultures within organizations. Wes and Tamara share valuable insights into the importance of aligning organizational values, particularly in remote work environments, and the significance of measuring progress towards creating meaningful work. We discuss how role modeling, clear communication, and understanding employees' unique narratives can foster a thriving work environment. Don't miss this enlightening episode where we uncover the science and practice of meaningful work.What You’ll Learn- How to align any job with the pillars of community, contribution, and challenge to find fulfillment.- Insights into the transformative power of leadership in creating meaningful work.- Meaningful work in a remote world.- The importance of community in achieving meaningful work.Podcast Timestamps(00:00) – What is Meaningful Work?(07:27) – Common Misconceptions About Meaningful Work(13:49) – The 3 Pillars of Meaningful Work(20:44) - Creating A Culture for Meaningful Work(31:13) - Measuring Progress Towards Meaningful Work(40:12) – Meaningful Work as a Foundational Building Block for Scaling Organizations(51:20) - Meaningful Work and Employee EngagementKEYWORDSPositive Leadership, Meaningful Work, Professional Growth, Maximizing Fulfillment, Positive Psychology, Organizational Structures, Peak Performance, Fostering Innovation, Increasing Resilience, Creating Community, Values-Based Leadership, Managing Remote Work, Organizational Culture, Authenticity, Role Modeling, Employee Engagement, CEO Success

How can cultural intelligence reshape the way leaders connect with diverse teams and foster inclusivity? This week I am joined by David Livermore, the renowned global thought leader and author of “Leading with Cultural Intelligence, the bestselling book on the topic. As we navigate the nuances of cultural intelligence, we explore its application across various cultural contexts and the importance of the four core capabilities: drive, knowledge, strategy, and action. Learn how traditional leadership traits may shift when viewed through different cultural lenses, and how biases can affect self-assessment of cultural competence. We also delve into the generational dynamics within teams, emphasizing the delicate balance between authenticity and adaptability, to ensure everyone can thrive without sacrificing their identity.Our episode takes a deep dive into the intricacies of cultural integration, particularly in global operations and mergers. David shares strategies for addressing politically sensitive topics and fostering open conversations that respect diverse perspectives. We navigate the challenges of remote work environments, where cultural differences are often magnified, and discuss how curiosity and openness are crucial for effective leadership. This episode reinforces the role of leaders in facilitating respectful and productive discussions, aligning with the mission of the Do Good to Lead Well podcast, to enhance understanding and growth through meaningful dialogue.What You’ll Learn- The inspiration behind David's best-selling book, "Leading with Cultural Intelligence."- The four key components of Cultural Intelligence: motivation, knowledge, strategy, and action.- The impact of generational dynamics and authenticity in team settings.- Strategies for navigating cultural integration in global operations and mergers.- The crucial role of curiosity and openness in developing Cultural Intelligence.Podcast Timestamps(00:00) – What is Cultural Intelligence?(10:59) - Assessing Cultural Intelligence and Team Dynamics(20:58) – Navigating the Interplay Between Diversity and Authenticity(35:59) - Navigating Cultural Integration in Global Operations(45:27) – Curiosity: The Foundational Upon Which to Build Cultural IntelligenceKEYWORDSPositive Leadership, Cultural Intelligence, Diversity, Inclusion, Leading Global Teams, Authenticity, Generational Dynamics, Cultural Integration, Managing Remote Work, Curiosity, Openness, Respectful Conversations, Inclusive Leadership, Cultural Differences, Organizational Culture, Inclusive Environments, Managing Biases, Driving Positive Organizational Change, Leveraging Data, Unintended Consequences, Data-Driven Decisions, CEO Success

Despite its popularity and promise, unfortunately, there are numerous misconceptions about the definition and practice of psychological safety. Inspired by Amy Edmondson's recent article in Harvard Business Review, I dive into the real meaning of psychological safety—it's about cultivating a space where open debates and the free exchange of ideas thrive, not an environment in which conflict or critical feedback is avoided. Discover how focusing on challenging concepts, not individuals, can foster innovation, engagement, and inclusivity within your team. I unpack why conflict and vigorous debate are not only natural but essential components of a psychologically safe environment.But who is responsible for this shared sense of safety? It's not just the leader's job. Drawing from my experiences as an executive coach, I emphasize the importance of bi-directional relationships within teams. Everyone plays a part in creating a safe space. Learn how implementing concrete behaviors and KPIs, while seeking external feedback, can help assess and improve psychological safety. Reflect on your own role and contributions to developing such an environment, not only in your professional sphere but in your personal life as well.What You’ll Learn- Debunking common myths about psychological safety.- How to dynamically measure psychological safety within teams.- The impact of psychological safety on innovation and inclusivity.- The importance of shared responsibility in fostering psychological safety.Podcast Timestamps(00:00) – Misconceptions About Psychological Safety(20:13) – Psychological Safety is a Two-Way StreetKEYWORDSPositive Leadership, Psychological Safety, Constructive Conflict, High-Performing Teams, Open Debates, Free Exchange of Ideas, Combatting Misconceptions, Amy Edmondson, Navigating Conflict, Radical Candor, Collective Excellence, CEO Success