Do Good To Lead Well with Craig Dowden

On this week’s episode of Do Good to Lead Well, I speak with Jay-Ann Gilfoy, CEO of Meridian Credit Union, to discuss the critical qualities of effective leadership in today's ever-changing world. Listen in as Jay-Ann shares her insights on the importance of agility, transparency, and curiosity. She emphasizes the role of empathy as a foundation for understanding diverse perspectives and making informed decisions. Jay-Ann also explores how fostering an abundance mindset within organizations can create opportunities and drive growth, offering valuable strategies for building positive cultures.Our conversation continues with an exploration of fostering trust within organizations. The discussion highlights the significance of transparency, active listening, and creating spaces for honest feedback, especially during challenging times. Discover how these practices led Meridian Credit Union to be recognized by Forbes as one of Canada’s Best Employers.We also explore the role of self-care in leadership and how to maintain resilience in the face of life's challenges. Discover the importance of focusing on controllable aspects, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and employing strategies like the "24-hour rule" to manage emotional reactions. Jay-Ann shares her insights on the integration of AI in leadership, encouraging curiosity and proactive engagement with new technologies to enhance productivity and decision-making.Tune in for another inspiring and insightful episode from anaward-winning CEO.What You’ll Learn- How to build trust within organizations.- Strategies for fostering resilience.- The power of abundance thinking.- Approaches to creating an inclusive organizational culture.- The importance of leadership qualities like empathy and agility.- The role of transparency in effective leadership.- Strategies for integrating AI and technology in the workplace to maximize innovation and growth.Podcast Timestamps(00:00) – The Key Qualities of Effective Leaders(10:28) - Fostering Trust in Organizations(23:14) – The Power of Self-Care(27:30) - Creating a Culture of Belonging(33:00) - Building Resilient Organizations(47:56) - Embracing A.I. in LeadershipKEYWORDSPositive Leadership, Agility, Abundance Thinking, The Power of Transparency, Empathy, Fostering Trust, Creating Belonging, Organizational Culture, Credit Unions, Positive Culture, Active Listening, Self-Care, Resilience, A.I. Leadership, Employee Resource Groups, OrganizationalLearning, Adapting to Technology, Future of Work, CEO Success

Dr. John Hillen, a distinguished CEO of a publicly traded company and former US Assistant Secretary of State, shares his insights on strategic leadership that you won't want to miss. With his latest book, "The Strategy Dialogues," Dr. Hillen demystifies the art of strategy through engaging conversations, making it approachable for everyone. As we unpack the attributes that differentiate a visionary leader from the rest, Dr. Hillen sheds light on how strategic thinkers see opportunities in challenges and prioritize long-term goals over immediate tasks. We highlight the crucial balance between strategic thinking and planning, providing actionable recommendations for senior executives to weave a strategic mindset into their daily practices, and avoid the common trap of letting meeting schedules drive decision-making.We also examine how organizations can leverage strategic thinking to gain a competitive edge in rapidly changing landscapes. By aligning with emerging trends and staying true to their strengths, businesses can not only survive but thrive amidst digital transformation. Empathy, communication, and understanding AI's role are presented aspivotal elements in leading change effectively. Most importantly, we emphasize that strategic thinking is not an exclusive privilege of big corporations; it's a vital tool for organizations of all sizes aiming to succeed in today's dynamic world.What You’ll Learn- Attributes of visionary leaders and how they transform challenges into opportunities.- Balancing strategic thinking with effective project management for organizational growth.- Leveraging empathy, communication, and AI in leading change.- Practical strategies for aligning with emerging trends and gaining a competitive edge.Podcast Timestamps(00:00) – What Does Strategy Actually Mean?(13:21) – The Qualities and Practices of Strategic Leaders(24:15) – The Balance Between Strategy and Execution(41:22) – Using Strategy for Competitive Advantage and Differentiation(52:20) – Strategy in the Digital EraKEYWORDSPositive Leadership, Strategic Leadership, Strategy, Visionary Leader, Strategic Thinker, Strategic Planning, Digital Transformation, Empathy, A.I., Competitive Advantage, Leading with Innovation, Mergers and Acquisitions, Effective Change Management, Adapting to Technology, CEO Success

On this episode of Do Good to Lead Well, I speak with Jim Estill, the innovative CEO of Danby Appliances, who started his entrepreneurial journey from the trunk of his car, driven by a personal need and a passion for technology. Jim’s story is not just about building a business; it's about the transformative power of pursuing what truly excites you. We unravel Jim's insights into leadership, where authenticity and growth are paramount, and explore how his commitmentto philanthropy—like sponsoring Syrian refugee families—reflects a deep-seated family ethos of giving back to the community.Authenticity and connection emerge as central themes as we navigate the art of leadership in challenging times. Jim shares how gratitude can galvanize a team, enhancing happiness and performance by aligning roles with individual skills and passions. This episode also underlines the importance of personal development, encouraging listeners to learn from those whose success we wish to emulate.Rather than feeling frustrated by where we are, use these role models for motivational fuel towards a positive future.Exploring leadership in the modern era, we highlight the delicate balance between empathy and tough business decisions. Core values emerge as guiding principles for organizational identity, shaping hiring and firing decisions in a manner that is both genuine and actionable. As we discuss the evolving role of technology and AI in business, humility and open-mindedness become the cornerstones of effectiveleadership. Join us as we close with revisiting the transformative power of gratitude, leaving you inspired to nurture relationships and embrace the positivity around you.What You’ll Learn- How Jim Estill transitioned from selling computers out of a car trunk to leading a major company.- Key insights into effective entrepreneurial leadership.- The transformative power and importance of gratitude in business and leadership.- Strategies for fostering a culture of empathy and authenticity.- The significance of maintaining unwavering core values in business.- Techniques for navigating the fast-paced world of modern business successfully.Podcast Timestamps(00:00) – The Power of Doing Good(12:11) – Effective Leadership Through Authenticity and Growth (23:03) – Embrace Core Values(35:22) – How to Build Success Habits(47:01) – Positive Leadership in the Age of Technology(56:20) – Leading with Gratitude and ImpactKEYWORDSPositive Leadership, Entrepreneurship, Authenticity, Growth, Philanthropy, Community-Focused, A.I., Empathy, Tough conversations, Leading with Gratitude, Managing Performance Reviews, Building Success Habits, The Power of Micro Habits, Humility, Open-mindedness, Personal Development, Core Values, Giving Back, CEO Success

Discover how to revolutionize your organization by embedding inclusion into its very DNA. Explore the foundations of Amri's groundbreaking book, "Reconstructing Inclusion," which challenges the norms of traditional DEI approaches. Through his experiences at Novartis, Amri shares how organizations can cultivate environments where everyone thrives by aligning skills and capabilities with their purpose.Addressing the elephant in the room, we tackle the current backlash against DEI efforts and explore the concept of anti-fragility. Learn how creating spaces for civil dialogue and fostering cognitive diversity can combat ideological resistance and enhance productivity. Amri also highlights how focusing on agency and prevention versus (over)reaction leads to a more sustainable and inclusive organizational culture.We close the conversation unpacking the nuances of cultural intelligence and relational fitness, vital tools for navigating the complexities of building inclusive environments for all. Join us for this transformative conversation where you will walk away with actionable strategies to foster growth, collaboration, and inclusivity in your organization.What You’ll Learn- How to build sustainable and inclusive organizations.- A challenge to traditional DEI frameworks.- An introduction to the COST model—Care, Openness, Safety, and Trust.- Ways to create vibrant, thriving work environments that inspire and empower everyone.Podcast Timestamps(00:00) - Creating Inclusive and Generative Organizations(10:27) - Navigating DEI Backlash and Anti-Fragility(23:02) - Creating Inclusive Organizations(28:20) - Embracing Inclusion Beyond Surface Identities(41:51) - Navigating Cultural Intelligence for Inclusion(47:46) - Sustainable Inclusion Practices in OrganizationsKEYWORDSPositive Leadership, Inclusive Organizations, Social Capitalism, Inclusion Strategy, DEI Frameworks, Sustainable Practices, Anti-Fragility, Cognitive Diversity, Respectful Dialogue, Cultural Intelligence, Relational Fitness, Inclusive Leadership, Collaborative Growth, Mutual Understanding, CEO Success

What happens when an organization fails to define its core values, allowing them to become mere decorative words on a wall rather than the guiding principles they are meant to be? Join me as I draw inspiration from my recent conversation with Garry Ridge, the Chairman Emeritus and former CEO of the iconic WD-40 Company. While the terms are often used interchangeably, I talk about the crucial distinction between values and beliefs and use real-world scenarios where lack of clarity leads to confusion and inconsistency. Together, we'll explore how to translate values into actionable behaviors that serve as anchors and navigational compasses for individuals and teams alike. Last but not least, we examine why organizations benefit from having a values hierarchy. What You’ll Learn:• How to transform organizational values into actionable strategies.• The impact of core values on effective decision-making.• Ways to enhance integrity within the organization.• Strategies to improve team cohesion through shared values.• The power of a values hierarchy.Podcast Timestamps:(00:00) The Power of Organizational Values(12:37) Prioritizing Organizational Values for Clarity(19:30) Maximizing Values Alignment: The Role of IntentionKey Topics Discussed:Organizational Values, Translating Values Into Action Garry Ridge, WD-40 Company, Prioritizing Values, Maximizing Clarity, Ensuring Alignment, Values-Based Decision-Making, Increasing Trust, Creating A Culture of Integrity, Building Cohesion, Doing the Right Thing, Fostering Empowerment, Positive Team Dynamics, CEO SuccessMore of Do Good to Lead Well:Website: https://craigdowden.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Tune in to discover the power of authentic leadership and transformative corporate culture with Garry Ridge, the highly esteemed Chairman Emeritus of WD-40 Company. Ever wondered how some leaders turn failure into a stepping stone for success? This episode will equip you with the tools to redefine setbacks as valuable "learning moments" and nurture a positive, growth-oriented workplace culture. We promise you'll walk away with actionable insights on fostering engagement, accountability and resilience within your teams.Explore the profound impact of self-awareness and empathy as Garry shares wisdom from his provocatively titled USA Today bestseller, "Any Dumbass Can Do It." Discover how mental health, authentic communication, and leading with core values form the bedrock of a thriving workplace, especially during challenging times. Learn from cautionary tales like Alex, the soul-sucking CEO of Fear Inc., to steer clear of toxic leadership pitfalls.Garry offers valuable strategies for leaders to build psychologically safe workplaces through intention and candor. He illustrates the significance of vulnerability, encouraging open dialogue to avoid fear-driven behaviors. By unpacking the concept of a values hierarchy, Garry shows how this approach empowers everyone across the company to make the right decisions so they can focus on their best work. Listen is as one of the world’s top Chief Executives shares his insights from a career of servant leadership and putting people first. You will leave inspired and empowered!What You’ll Learn:• The creation story of WD-40 and how redefining failures as "learning moments" fosters resilience.• The critical role of mental health in building thriving organizational cultures.• Practical strategies for leaders to build psychologically safe workplaces.• The importance of a values hierarchy to create alignment and unlock the potential within your organization.• How self-awareness and prioritizing reflection can lead to enduring influence and build an enduring legacy of excellence.Podcast Timestamps:(00:00) – The Origin Story for the Book Title(14:07) – Empathy, Humility, and Self-Awareness: Key Ingredients for Strong Leadership(21:47) - Leadership Through Intention and Candor(28:22) – The Power of a Values Hierarchy(39:12) - Cultivating Authentic Leadership in Today's World(50:03) - Reflections on Leadership LegacyMore of Garry:Garry Ridge is a leadership coach, author, and culture expert dedicated to helping organizations build workplaces where people feel valued, connected, and inspired. As Chairman Emeritus of the WD-40 Company, he spent over 35 years leading, growing, and transforming global businesses, fostering a culture of innovation and engagement. Now, he coaches executives, advises organizations, and speaks worldwide on the power of workplace culture. A board member for The Gorilla Glue Company and Eastridge Workforce Solutions, Garry also taught leadership principles as an adjunct professor at the University of San Diego. His book, Any Dumb Ass Can Do It (2025), distills his leadership philosophy—emphasizing clarity, consistency, and culture. Passionate about creating high-trust environments, he believes in putting people first, prioritizing learning over ego, and leading with values like love, care, and accountability.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garryridge/Key Topics Discussed:Positive Leadership, Corporate Culture, Empathy, Self-awareness, WD-40, Fear Inc., Authentic Leadership, Mental Health, Purpose, Values Hierarchy, Building A Legacy, Growth Mindset, Vulnerability, Reflection, Intention, Candor, Learning Moments, Learning from Failure, Living Your Values, Building Trust, Servant Leadership, Soul-Sucking CEO, Values-Based Leadership, CEO SuccessMore of Do Good to Lead Well:Website: https://craigdowden.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Unlock the secrets to purpose-driven leadership and sustainability with our special guest, Selwyn Crittenden, CEO and Chief Sustainability Officer of IKEA Canada. Imagine a world where businesses thrive by aligning with core values such as doing more with less, promoting inclusivity, and taking bold steps towards climate action. In this episode, Selwyn shares how IKEA stays true to these principles, integrating sustainable practices like waste reduction and renewable energy into their daily operations, thus achieving both economic success and a positive societal impact.Explore the critical qualities that define effective leadership in the modern business landscape. Together, we discuss the art of balancing transparency with stability, fostering a culture of trust, and maintaining personal and organizational values. Learn how adaptability, active listening, and celebrating team achievements contribute to building resilient organizations capable of navigating complex challenges. Our conversation highlights the importance of understanding diverse communities and how leaders can harness these insights to create inclusive and impactful solutions.With the advent of AI, our conversation pivots to how technological advancements are reshaping leadership and customer service. Selwyn shares concrete examples of where AI can enhance productivity while still valuing human intuition and action. He also offers advice for emerging leaders, emphasizing the importance of mentorship, curiosity, and a test-and-try mentality to foster continuous growth. Join us in this enriching episode that embodies the core values of the Do Good to Lead Well podcast, and let's continue to foster meaningful discussions together.What You’ll Learn:• Integration of leadership and sustainability at IKEA.• IKEA's innovations in the circular economy.• How AI is being integrated into leadership and customer service strategies.• The importance of a values-driven culture in building resilient teams.• Methods for igniting transformative change within organizations.• Strategies to navigate and thrive in an ever-evolving world.Podcast Timestamps:(00:00) - Purpose-Driven Leadership at IKEA Canada(18:50) - Nurturing Transparent and Inclusive Leadership(29:17) - Building Resilient Teams and Organizations(43:37) - Embracing AI for Leadership Growth(58:05) - Leading With Values and EngagementMore of Selwyn:Selwyn Crittendon is the CEO and Chief Sustainability Officer of IKEA Canada, a unique dual role that reflects his deep commitment to both business growth and environmental responsibility. With over two decades of experience at IKEA, Selwyn has held various leadership positions, most recently serving as Chief Business Development Manager at IKEA U.S., where he spearheaded expansion, transformation, and innovation efforts. Since stepping into his current role in July 2023, he has continued to champion IKEA’s global mission of social purpose and positive leadership, embodying the company’s values and driving sustainable progress within the Canadian market.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/selwyn-crittendon/Key Topics Discussed:Positive Leadership, Sustainability, IKEA, Circular Economy, Climate Action, Waste Reduction, Zero-Emission Deliveries, Leading with Transparency, Living Your Values, Trust, Active Listening, Adaptability, Resilient Teams, Organizational Values, AI, Customer Service, Mentorship, Gratitude, Learning Conversations, Values-Based Leadership, CEO SuccessMore of Do Good to Lead Well:Website: https://craigdowden.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

What if the name you were born with became a barrier to your dream job? Jahanzaib Ansari faced this exact challenge and used his personal story of overcoming discrimination to fuel his passion to create a hiring process that partners with giants like IBM and Deloitte to ensure fairer hiring practices. Through his eyes, you’ll uncover the journey of leading an innovative company in Canada, navigating the hurdles of growth, and using artificial intelligence to champion equality and inclusion in the workforce.The tech world is ever-changing, and staying ahead requires a unique set of skills. Emphasizing a growth mindset and the ability to remain agile, Jahanzaib discusses how openness to feedback and surrounding oneself with a skilled team can enhance leadership effectiveness. We delve into the importance of resilience in weathering economic challenges and organizational changes. Learn strategies to transform from a negative mindset to one of opportunity and growth, acknowledging that every leader's journey is filled with its own set of trials and triumphs.The episode wraps up with a focus on navigating AI ethics and fostering trust in professional relationships. Jahanzaib brings attention to the increasing role of Chief Ethics Officers in ensuring ethical use of data and preventing discrimination. We discuss best practices for hiring, advocating for collaboration between recruiters and hiring managers, and the importance of objective competency setting. As the conversation unfolds, we highlight the significance of building trust and fostering Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, despite the societal polarization surrounding these efforts. Jahanzaib underscores the need for organizations to remove unfair gatekeepers, ensuring that all individuals, regardless of background, have equal opportunities to thrive.What You’ll Learn:• The evolution of leadership in the fast-paced world of A.I.• Building resilience and fostering a growth mindset• Navigating A.I. ethics and promoting bias-free hiring practices• The importance of trust and collaboration in professional relationships• Overcoming societal polarization to champion Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiativesPodcast Timestamps:(00:00) - Turning Bias Into Opportunity: Knockri's Origin Story(14:59) - Building Resilience Through A Growth Mindset(29:36) - Navigating Ethics: A.I. and Hiring Practices(36:29) - Building Trust and DEI Practices(44:20) - Mastering Self-Leadership Is A Lifelong ProcessMore of Jahanzaib Ansari:Jahanzaib Ansari is the co-founder of Knockri, an award-winning behavioral assessment platform that integrates ethical AI with I/O Psychology to revolutionize hiring. Driven by a mission to create a more inclusive, fair, and efficient recruitment process, he partners with Fortune 500 companies like IBM, Deloitte, SAP, and the Canadian Federal Government to help them build diverse teams and foster equity. Beyond leading Knockri, Jahanzaib serves as a Next Generation Business Leader to the Business Council of Canada, collaborating with top executives to drive meaningful change. A recognized thought leader in AI, the Future of Work, and Diversity, he has spoken at prestigious international events and earned accolades such as Innovator of the Year by Ascend, the Exceptional Leadership Award by AUSCAN Forum, and a spot on HRD Magazine’s list of Canada’s Rising Stars. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jansari1/Key Topics Discussed:Positive Leadership, Entrepreneurship, Tech Innovation, Adaptability, A.I., Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Hiring, Ethics, Resilience, Growth Mindset, Agility, Receiving Feedback, Persistence, Collaboration, Building Trust, DEI, Leading with Transparency, Chief Ethics Officer, Establishing Credibility, Emerging Leaders, Servant Leadership, Self-Leadership, CEO SuccessMore of Do Good to Lead Well:Website: https://craigdowden.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

What if the key to navigating today's whirlwind of chaos and uncertainty lies in four universal qualities? As we journey through Gallup's Global Leadership Report, we unpack what followers worldwide are desperately seeking from their leaders. This episode shines a spotlight on how authentic leadership can serve as an anchor in turbulent times, and why empathy and compassion are becoming non-negotiable in an increasingly AI-driven world.Hope, identified as the most pressing need, is dissected through real-world examples, illustrating its power to inspire resilience and forward-thinking. Join us in reflecting on these qualities and learn how embracing them can foster environments of stability and growth, paving the path for a brighter future for everyone.What You’ll Learn:• Real-world examples of leadership during turbulent times.• The critical role of trust and how to nurture it.• How hope can drive motivation and resilience.• Practical tips to integrate the four needs of followership into your daily leadership.Key Topics Discussed:Positive Leadership, Global Leadership Report, Gallup, Stability, Compassion, Trust, Hope, Authentic Leadership, Empathy, Resilience, Managing Disruption, Stephen M.R. Covey, Human Connection, A.I., Personal Growth, Evidence-Informed Leadership, CEO SuccessMore of Do Good to Lead Well:Website: https://craigdowden.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Rebecca Kacaba, CEO of DealMaker, joins us on the Do Good to Lead Well podcast, sharing her captivating journey from a corporate attorney to a trailblazing entrepreneur reshaping North America's tech landscape. Her transition from law to entrepreneurship is driven by a desire to tackle the financing hurdles startup founders face. Rebecca's story is rich with lessons in empathy, resilience, and persistence, and how being mindful of our mindset can bring about transformative changes in our personal and professional lives.We explore the traits essential for leadership today, particularly adaptability and grit, which are crucial in the ever-evolving tech world. Rebecca shares her insights on fostering adaptability within organizations through creative exercises and how maintaining a solid vision aligned with strategic goals is crucial for leaders. Balancing empathy with leadership responsibilities, she illustrates how fostering a culture of integrity and autonomy can democratize access to capital markets, showcasing DealMaker's mission.Rebecca also candidly discusses overcoming imposter syndrome and embracing authenticity. She shares how being genuine reduces stress and builds meaningful connections. The episode wraps up with a thoughtful discussion on AI's impact on leadership, emphasizing the need for empathy and visionary leadership. Rebecca's insights provide a wealth of knowledge for aspiring leaders and entrepreneurs eager to make a significant impact beyond their balance sheet.What You’ll Learn:• The essential traits for modern leadership, such as adaptability and grit.• Strategies for fostering adaptability within organizations.• Overcoming imposter syndrome• Embracing authenticity to build meaningful connections.• The role of AI in the future of leadership and the enduring need for empathy and visionary leadership.Podcast Timestamps:(00:00) – The Journey from Attorney to Tech CEO(10:50) - Building Adaptive Leadership with Grit(26:30) – The Importance of Empathy and Integrity in Leadership(38:43) - Embracing Authenticity and Overcoming Imposter Syndrome(46:33) - Navigating AI and the Future of LeadershipMore of Rebecca:Rebecca Kacaba is the CEO and co-founder of DealMaker, a leading capital-raising platform revolutionizing the industry with cutting-edge technology. A former securities lawyer with over a decade of experience on Bay Street, she co-chaired the Toronto Venture Technology and Emerging Growth Companies group at a global law firm before launching DealMaker to streamline and modernize fundraising. Under her leadership, DealMaker has processed over $2 billion in transactions, earning recognition on Deloitte’s Canada Technology Fast 50 and North America’s Fast 500 lists, ranking alongside and even above industry giants like Zoom and DraftKings. Named one of North America’s most innovative lawyers by the Financial Times and one of Canada's most admired CEOs, Rebecca is dedicated to empowering founders to raise capital as easily as e-commerce, turning supporters into shareholders and reshaping the future of capital markets.LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccakacaba/Mentions: DealMaker: https://www.dealmaker.tech/Key Topics Discussed:Positive Leadership, Entrepreneurship, Tech Innovation, Adaptability, Inspiration, Core Values, Artificial Intelligence, Financing, Startup Founders, Empathy, Resilience, Persistence, Grit, Capital Markets, Leading with Integrity, Authenticity, Dealing with Imposter Syndrome, Vulnerability, Mentorship, AI Strategy, Visionary Leadership, Personal Growth, CEO SuccessMore of Do Good to Lead Well:Website: https://craigdowden.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/