Do Good To Lead Well with Craig Dowden

Unlock the secrets to peak performance and human-centered leadership with Mark C. Crowley, a trailblazer in the field and bestselling author, as he joins the "Do Good to Lead Well" podcast. Discover how prioritizing employee well-being over conventional engagement metrics is transforming organizations globally. Mark's latest book, "The Power of Employee Well-Being," challenges the status quo by asking us to redefine what team flourishing really looks like while providing an evidence-rich and practical roadmap to make it happen.Our conversation begins by encouraging organizations to shift from outdated annual engagement surveys to the immediacy of pulse surveys, uncovering their impact on leadership accountability and organizational responsiveness. Mark also highlights the necessity of leadership commitment to move beyond performative measures, ensuring initiatives are authentic and impactful.As hybrid workspaces become the standard, we discuss the critical importance of fostering connection and a sense of belonging, regardless of physical location. From maintaining and deepening the quality of relationships through regular one-on-one meetings to using office time to build social ties, we explore strategies for hybrid success. Plus, with the rising influence of AI, we emphasize the need for transparency and empathy in workforce management, ensuring that technological advancements do not compromise our humanity. Join us in this enlightening episode full of actionable, scientifically supported insights and strategies for leaders committed to driving success by leveraging the power of employee.What You’ll Learn- The importance of prioritizing employee well-being in leadership.- How pulse surveys can provide valuable insights into employee satisfaction.- The vital role of leadership commitment in realizing the power of employee well-being.- Strategies for successfully managing hybrid workplaces.- The transformative impacts of AI on modern workplaces.- The role of authentic engagement in driving organizational success.Podcast Timestamps(00:00) – The Failure of Employee Engagement(09:27) - Transforming Organizations Through Pulse Surveys(16:40) - The Impact of Employee Well-Being(21:18) - Friendship and Belonging at Work (102 Seconds)(36:40) - Leading With Love in Leadership(44:24) - Creating Connection in Hybrid Workplaces(50:24) – Employee Well-Being in an AI WorldKEYWORDSPositive Leadership, Human Leadership, Employee Well-Being, Organizational Success, Engagement Surveys, Pulse Surveys, Workplace Happiness, Hybrid Workplaces, AI, Transparency, Leading with Empathy, Continuous Learning, Fostering Connection, Increasing A Sense of Belonging, Remote Work, Self-Leadership, CEO Success

Join us on this engaging episode of the Do Good to Lead Well podcast, where we explore the fascinating journey of Dr. Michael Nevarez, a highly respected psychiatrist and leadership coach. His insights, drawn from his work as the assistant director of the Harvard Study of Adult Development, underscore the importance of continuous personal and leadership growth, integrating scientific research into practical tools for leaders.Listen in as we explore the art of delivering effective feedback, a crucial skill for any leader. The conversation highlights the challenges leaders face in maintaining a delicate balance between fostering growth and preserving positive relationships. Discover the significance of providing feedback that is behaviorally anchored, utilizing specific and neutral information to avoid performance declines. Dr. Nevarez shares strategies like the "push" and "pull" phases, where clarity and curiosity play pivotal roles in understanding and addressing underlying issues. By focusing on clear communication and open dialogue, leaders can better navigate the intricacies of feedback, differentiating between problems such as time management and prioritization.The episode also unpacks techniques such as affect labeling and perspective checking, emphasizing the role of psychological safety in successful implementation. Discover how managing emotions in feedback conversations can avoid common pitfalls like fundamental attribution error, utilizing tools like contrast statements to reduce perceived threats and promote constructive dialogue. If you’re looking for actionable tools and scripts for creating meaningful, growth-oriented feedback conversations, this conversation is a must-listen.What You’ll Learn- The secrets of the art of feedback.- How to master the powerful STEP communication framework.- Ways to create environments of psychological safety.- Managing emotions in feedback conversations.- Balancing candor with impact.Podcast Timestamps(00:00) – The Art and Science of Leadership Development(08:16) – Navigating the “Push” and “Pull” of Feedback Conversations(23:21) – Watch Your STEP: A Powerful Framework for Effective Communication(40:33) - Managing Emotions in Feedback ConversationsKEYWORDSPositive Leadership, The Art of Meaningful Conversation, Leadership Development, Effective Feedback, Communication Framework, STEP, Psychological Safety, Behaviorally Anchored Feedback, Curiosity, Personal Growth, Fostering Accountability, Clear Expectations, Constructive Dialogue, CEO Success

What if midlife could be the most transformative period of your life? Join us in a compelling conversation with Chip Conley, renowned entrepreneur and bestselling author, who shares his transformative insights on embracing the midlife journey. Drawing from his pivotal experiences at Airbnb and his groundbreaking work with the Modern Elder Academy (MEA), we explore how Chip's latest book, "Learning to Love Midlife," challenges ageist stereotypes and redefines midlife as a time for renewal and growth.Redefining what it means to be a "modern elder," Chip shares his unique perspective on combining wisdom with curiosity. By reframing midlife as a "midlife chrysalis" rather than a crisis, he opens up new avenues for personal transformation and fulfillment. Drawing on insights from thought leaders like Becca Levy and Arthur Brooks, Chip and I discuss how emotional intelligence, social relationships, and spirituality are key areas for growth during this pivotal life stage.Finally, we journey through the concepts of generativity and life purpose as they evolve across life's stages. Drawing from spiritual and philosophical insights, we discuss how older generations can impart wisdom while embracing new purposes, and how younger generations can navigate the complexities of an AI-driven world. We delve into the importance of understanding one's life story and finding one's "ikigai," a harmonious blend of passion, proficiency, reward, and necessity. Let this conversation inspire you to see midlife not as a time of crisis but as a powerful opportunity for growth and discovery at any age.What You’ll Learn- Why midlife is not a crisis; it’s an opportunity.- How to embrace aging as an opportunity for personal growth- Harnessing the value of wisdom gained through life experiences- The importance of fostering meaningful friendships in midlife- Strategies for redefining one's purpose during midlife transitionsTake the Midlife Pathfinder Quiz: https://reportcard.meawisdom.com/pathfinder-quizPodcast Timestamps(00:00) – Learning to Love Midlife(13:09) – Midlife as a Chrysalis, Not Crisis(18:39) – What is a Modern Elder? Harnessing Our Wisdom and Life Experience(35:26) – The Power of Friendships(43:48) – Generativity and Purpose Across Different Stages of Life: Finding Your "Ikigai"KEYWORDSChip Conley, Positive Leadership, The Art of Meaningful Conversation, Curiosity, Learning to Love Midlife, Modern Elder, Challenging Ageist Stereotypes, Cultivating Wisdom, Embracing Transformation, Continuous Growth, Positive Mindset, Social Wellness, The Power of Friendship, Living with Purpose, Generativity, Creating our Life Story, Ikigai, Hero's Journey, Emotional Intelligence, Social Relationships, Spirituality, Longevity, Adaptability, Lifelong Learning, CEO Success

Join us for an enlightening conversation this week with Zorana Ivcevic Pringle, a senior research scientist at Yale University's Center for Emotional Intelligence, as she shatters the myth of creativity as a fixed trait. Her insights from "The Creativity Choice: The Science of Making Decisions to Turn Ideas into Action" guide us through redefining creativity as a choice, empowering us to intentionally cultivate it in all aspects of life. Whether you're an artist or a business professional, Zorana's wisdom will help you recognize and harness your creative potential.We explore the (often overwhelming) challenge of managing an abundance of ideas and the art of creative problem-solving. Learn practical strategies to overcome creative blocks, such as task switching and the innovative concepts of "problem finding" and "problem construction" that encourage redefining challenges for fresh solutions. Explore the vital role of psychological safety in fostering organizational creativity. We discuss how leaders can create an environment where diverse perspectives are welcomed, and emotions are seen as valuable datapoints for decision-making. Through this lens, creativity becomes a continuous series of choices, each an opportunity for originality and innovation. Zorana's insights offer a roadmap for choosing creativity at every turn, leading to more effective and innovative outcomes. Don't miss out on this opportunity to enhance your creative journey with the tools and techniques shared in this episode.What You’ll Learn- How to redefine creativity as a conscious choice- Strategies to ignite and enhance personal creativity- Techniques to manage and overcome idea overload- Ways to foster and spark innovation within organizations- The importance of psychological safety in the creative process- Insights into unlocking and realizing one's full creative potentialPodcast Timestamps(00:01) – Creativity is a Choice(15:14) – Navigating Ideas and Creative Problem Solving(31:16) – Unleashing Organizational Creativity(42:23) – Fostering Psychological Safety for Innovation(51:56) – Creativity as a Continuous ProcessKEYWORDSPositive Leadership, Creativity, Innovation, Generating Ideas, The Power of Problem-Finding, Social Connections, Overcoming Creative Blocks, Task Switching, Psychological Safety, Organizational Creativity, Inviting Diverse Perspectives, Emotions as Data, Improving Decision-Making, Continuous Learning, CEO Success

In this week’s episode of the Do Good to Lead Well podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Lindsay Dodd, the CEO of Cashco Financial, for an enlightening conversation about how to build an award-winning culture. He reveals how purpose and profitability can successfully coexist, emphasizing a people-first mindset that champions dignity, trust, and empowerment. His insights showcase how Cashco Financial has consistently earned recognition as one of Alberta’s best workplaces for five consecutive years. We explore leadership not as a set of inherent qualities, but as learned behaviors such as courage, confidence, empathy, and resilience, drawing from frameworks that advocate for modeling the way and inspiring a shared vision.Our discussion delves into the true meaning of authentic leadership, defining it as a consistent commitment to building trust by aligning our actions with our values and beliefs. Lindsay illustrates how genuine vulnerability, coupled with an openness to feedback and a commitment to inclusive workplaces, strengthens bonds and fosters collaboration. We explore practical strategies for navigating challenging peer interactions, stressing the importance of curiosity and addressing issues directly yet calmly. Additionally, Lindsay shares CashCo’s unique cultural practices, from hiring based on empathy to an “upside-down triangle” leadership model that prioritizes frontline staff, reinforcing values through daily core value stories.As we look to the future, the conversation addresses the complexities of leading in a polarized society and the rapid evolution of artificial intelligence. Lindsay offers advice on finding common ground amidst differing opinions and encourages leaders to engage with new technologies, learning and playing with them to discover new opportunities while managing risks. This episode offers practical wisdom for building successful, values-driven organizations and preparing for tomorrow’s challenges.What You’ll Learn- Leadership is a learned behavior- How authenticity builds trust- Go beyond superficial values. Identify operating values that show “how we do things around here”- Empathy drives performance and engagement- Hire for growth, always- Embrace AI with curiosityPodcast Timestamps(00:00) – Lessons in Leadership(07:02) – Authentic Leadership & Trust(12:38) – Vulnerability in Leadership(16:11) – Bringing Culture & Values to Life(20:28) – Leading in a Polarized World(25:38) – Operationalizing Core Values(35:35) – The Power of Empathy(40:29) – Leveraging Strengths, Building Teams(46:21) – Founder Advice: Hire Great People(49:21) – Navigating the AI Revolution(54:54) – Courageous Leadership: The Penguin PrincipleKEYWORDSPositive Leadership, Purpose-driven Leadership, Organizational Culture, Authentic Leadership, Building Trust, Employee Engagement, Core Values, Vulnerability in Leadership, Curiosity, Managing Conflict, Values Alignment, Future of Work, Artificial Intelligence, Empathy, Navigating Polarization, Adaptive Leadership, CEO Success

Can sharing personal stories at work really boost your well-being and productivity? In my latest solo episode, I explore the fascinating dynamics of self-disclosure in the workplace, drawing insights from recent research. Discover how sharing positive experiences can elevate emotional well-being, enhance work energy, and foster deeper connections with colleagues, while venting about negative experiences might have the opposite effect.We also examine the motivations behind why we share, including connecting, venting, or seeking advice, and how they impact our well-being. To close, we consider the intriguing interplay of mismatched intentions, where what we are looking for is not returned and how Craig also unpacks the intriguing concept of response mismatches, where the intention to connect can be misaligned and strategies we can use, as both a sharer and listener, to avoid this unfortunate outcome.Tune in as explore an issue that we all face and learn evidence-based practices that can deepen the quality of our communication and connection.What You’ll Learn- How sharing positive experiences can boost your energy and strengthen connections with colleagues- The potential downsides of venting- The crucial role of intentions in self-disclosure; why we share impacts what we receive in return- The role of intention in improving the quality of our conversations- How to avoid misalignment between our intentions and our impactKEYWORDSPositive Leadership, Group Dynamics, Positive Communication, Self-Disclosure, Emotional Well-being, Mental Health, Managing Professional Relationships, Lead with Intention, High-Quality Conversations, Team Success, The Power of Vulnerability, Emotional Regulation, Support, CEO SuccessRESOURCESDo you have a minute? The cognitive and emotional consequences of self-disclosures at work - PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40424152/

Dr. Corinne Low, an associate professor at the Wharton School and author of 'Having It All,' shares her insights on the challenges faced by working mothers. She discusses the rising parenting demands and the concept of invisible labor that often falls to women. Corinne suggests using data tracking to distribute household chores more equitably and emphasizes the importance of self-care and aligning personal values with professional goals. Her practical exercises guide listeners to prioritize their needs and achieve a fulfilling work-life balance.

On this episode of the Do Good to Lead Well podcast, I sit down with Dr. Todd Kashdan, a top expert in well-being, curiosity and resilience to dive right into an engaging discussion about what makes a great conversationalist. We cover a wide range of topics during our time together, including three of his exceptional books and his Substack – Provoked.Dr. Kashdan’s insights will challenge your perceptions and assumptions and provide deeper and richer insights into how we approach our personal and professional lives. We start by exploring the science of Curiosity, which he outlined in an earlier book. He also sheds light on his previous book, the "Upside of your Dark Side," exploring how traditionally ‘negative’ emotions like anger can be powerful drivers of social change and effective leadership. This exploration extends to challenging the culture of toxic positivity and recognizing the indispensable role of negative emotions in personal and professional growth.Finally, we unpack the complex terrain of principled dissent. Through personal stories and real-world applications, the conversation highlights the importance of social courage and independent decision-making. Dr. Kashdan discusses how integrating dissenters with supportive allies can create a productive environment, both online and offline, and underscores the necessity of authenticity beyond performative gestures. This episode offers valuable insights into navigating leadership challenges with principle, providing a compelling roadmap for fostering positive environments where we effectively leverage the diversity of the human experience to achieve extraordinary things together.What You’ll Learn- The essence of great conversationalists - The importance of social sensitivity in fostering positive group dynamics- Harnessing diverse perspectives to drive creativity and innovation.- Exploring the "Upside of your Dark Side" and how traditionally negative emotions can fuel positive social change.- The role of principled dissent in societal and individual growth- The power of alignment between your Values X ActionsPodcast Timestamps(00:00) - Curiosity as a Vital Skill in Leadership and in Life(13:59) - Navigating Diversity and Psychological Safety(20:36) - Exploring the Upside of Your Dark Side(38:50) - Challenging the Status Quo: Group Norms and Decision-Making(48:16) – The True Power of Principled DissentKEYWORDSPositive Leadership, The Art of Meaningful Conversation, Curiosity, Psychological Safety, Cognitive Diversity, Navigating Group Dynamics, Fostering Creativity and Innovation, The Benefits of a Wandering Mind, Facing the Shadow Self, The Upside of Anger, Power Dynamics, Principled Dissent, Exhibiting Social Courage, Creating Allyship, The Perils of Performative Versus Principled Leadership, CEO Success

Scott Stirrett, the inspiring entrepreneur and author, graces us with his presence to unravel the wisdom behind his latest book, "The Uncertainty Advantage: Launching Your Career in an Era of Rapid Change." Scott candidly shares personal battles with anxiety, OCD, burnout, and imposter syndrome, revealing how vulnerability and storytelling can transform uncertainty into a powerful tool for growth. Through Scott's lens, we explore the idea that embracing the unknown can unlock untapped potential and drive both personal and professional success.We tackle the pressing issue of burnout, distinguishing it from typical stress and uncovering how mindfulness can be a key player in managing it. Scott and I dive into practical strategies that help identify burnout's root causes, often hidden in misalignment with personal values or toxic environments, and offer actionable advice on mitigating its effects. For those skeptical about mindfulness, we share simple practices to integrate reflection into daily life, helping build resilience and safeguard mental health amidst chaos.As the world of work evolves, the conversation shifts toward the future, where skills like collaboration and communication become indispensable. We discuss how embracing intelligent failures and risk-taking leads to success, highlighting the myth of the singular big risk and emphasizing the importance of a strong support network. Leaders will find valuable insights on fostering a culture that thrives in uncertainty, celebrating both achievements and failures, and making informed decisions with limited data. This episode is packed with enriching perspectives on navigating uncertainty with confidence and compassion.What You’ll Learn- How to embrace and leverage uncertainty for personal and professional growth- Unpacking mindfulness for skeptics- Strategies for conquering burnout and maintaining well-being - Insights into mastering intelligent risk-taking- The power and practice of self-compassion- Strategies for maximizing team clarity, alignment, and trustPodcast Timestamps(00:00) – A Personal Window into the Uncertainty Advantage(08:03) – The Role of Mindfulness in Managing Burnout(14:55) – The Power of Self-Compassion in for Navigating Uncertainty(18:45) – Dealing with Impostor Syndrome(27:02) – The Upside of Stress(35:24) – Failure as a Path to Success(41:58) – How to Build Resilient and Adaptable Teams|Connect with Scott Stirrett:Website: https://www.scottstirrett.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottstirrett/Buy the Book: https://www.scottstirrett.com/the-uncertainty-advantageSubstack: https://scottstirrett.substack.com/archiveKEYWORDSPositive Leadership, Group Dynamics, Team Success, Navigating Uncertainty, Managing Burnout, Practicing Mindfulness, Increasing Resilience, Stress Management, Dealing with Imposter Syndrome, The Power of Vulnerability, Emotional Regulation, Anti-Fragility, RULER, Intelligent Failures, Self-Compassion Support, Adaptability, CEO Success

Step into the fascinating world of group dynamics with our special guest, Colin Fisher, an associate professor at University College London and the creative mind behind the upcoming book, "The Collective Edge: Unlocking the Secret Power of Groups." Drawing from his rich experiences in research and consulting, Colin shares how groups can achieve greatness that far exceeds individual contributions. He highlights the importance of treating groups as unique entities, crucial for problem-solving and enhancing collaboration in daily and professional settings.Explore the secrets behind effective team composition as Colin guides us through the critical elements of social sensitivity, skill diversity, and intrinsic motivation. We underline the importance of forming teams with members who are socially aware and genuinely invested in their tasks. The discussion delves into empathy's role in team performance, offering actionable insights for leaders striving to build more cohesive and dynamic teams.We also tackle the complexities of remote and hybrid work environments and stress the importance of psychological safety, enabling team members to challenge norms without fear. From enhancing trust and communication to fostering adaptability, this conversation provides an evidence-informed roadmap for anyone seeking to unlock the full potential of their teams.What You’ll Learn- Effective team composition through social sensitivity, skill diversity, and intrinsic motivation- The role of empathy in team performance and strategies for building cohesive, dynamic teams- The power of curiosity and inquiry in welcoming diverse perspectives and enhancing team dynamics- Challenges and opportunities in remote and hybrid work environments, emphasizing psychological safety and adaptability- Strategies for maximizing team clarity, alignment, and trustPodcast Timestamps(00:00) - The Power of Group Dynamics(15:09) - Effective Team Composition Through Social Sensitivity(20:21) - Improving Team Dynamics Through Inquiry(31:11) – Leading Remote and Hybrid Teams(42:16) - Maximizing Team Clarity and Alignment(50:31) - Dynamic Team Charters and Coaching InsightsKEYWORDSPositive Leadership, Group Dynamics, Team Success, Social Sensitivity, Intrinsic Motivation, Empathy, Remote Work, Psychological Safety, Building Trust, Improving Team Communication, Team Building, Establishing Clear Goals, Maximizing Alignment, Elevating Curiosity, Active Listening, Continuous Communication, CEO Success