Do Good To Lead Well with Craig Dowden

Everyone knows empathy is a vital skill to master when it comes to leadership, but what tactics do established leaders use to balance humanity and expectation? What are the 3 H’s to grounding your leadership skills. In this episode, Dr. Danika Goosney answers these questions and more. What You’ll Learn: 1. Using data to advocate for diversity, equity and inclusion in the STEM field. 2. The 3 grounding H’s of leadership: humanity, humility and humor. 3. Linking the connection between empathy and trust. 4. Conducting an energy audit to observe work trends and assess priorities. 5. Balancing transparency, oversharing, authenticity and professionalism. 6. Reframing situations from a different lens to paint the whole picture. 7. What actually makes for a good mentor. 8. Maximizing impact with data by telling a good story and knowing the audience. 9. 3 ways to maintain resilience as an individual and a leader. Who is Danika? Dr. Danika Goosney, appointed as Vice-President at NSERC in 2019, holds a first-class honors Bachelor of Science and a PhD from the University of British Columbia, where she earned the Governor General's Gold Medal. With a background in microbiology and immunology, she pursued postdoctoral training at the Scripps Research Institute before contributing to Vancouver-based biotech firms. Over nearly a decade at CIHR and later at the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council, she played pivotal roles in research, knowledge translation, and ethics. Dr. Goosney is nationally recognized for her positive leadership in equity, diversity, and inclusion in STEM, advocating for open science and science literacy, while also passionately mentoring those seeking careers in science policy and public service. She now serves as Director and Chief Executive Officer, Canadian Museum of Nature. Follow Danika: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danika-goosney-ph-d-a361b42/ More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

If you have ever wanted to raise your negotiation skills to the next level, then this is the episode for you! Join me as I sit down with Alexandra Carter, a renowned author and the director of the Mediation Clinic at Columbia Law School. In this episode, we journey through Alexandra's fascinating life—from her Long Island upbringing to her pivotal discoveries in mediation at Columbia Law School as well as her ongoing work with the United Nations. With wisdom drawn from her book, "Ask for More: 10 Questions to Negotiate Anything," Alexandra shares actionable, science-backed strategies to empower you in any negotiation scenario. Discover powerful techniques for sales negotiation that pivot on asking the right questions. We'll reveal how to lead with open-ended questions to uncover customer concerns and turn potential "no's" into "yes's." Alexandra also discusses the critical role of self-reflection and emotional intelligence in decision-making, offering personal stories and practical examples to illustrate how understanding your own position can pave the way for successful outcomes. Finally, we'll focus on mastering the communication skills necessary so we can better understand our needs and those of our counterparts more clearly. By embracing silence and avoiding assumptions, you can gather comprehensive information that informs your proposals. Whether you're negotiating financial requests, handling uncertain counterparts, or leading a team through challenging times, this episode is packed with valuable strategies to boost your personal and professional growth. Join us for these compelling insights and elevate your negotiation game to new heights. What You’ll Learn: • The science and practice of negotiation • The importance of asking open-ended questions • The role of self-reflection & emotional intelligence • How to elevate your communication skills in negotiation  • Aligning personal needs with company goals Podcast Timestamps: (00:00) – From Long Island to Working With the United Stations – The Story of “Ask For More.” (13:33) - Effective Sales Negotiation Strategies (17:46) – Empower Your Negotiation Through Self-Reflection (26:15) - Navigating Emotions in Negotiation (31:26) - Understanding Needs Through Effective Communication (42:05) - Negotiating for Value More of Alexandra: She's the director of the Mediation Clinic at Columbia Law School. So she's also an award winning professor there. And a world renowned negotiation trainer for the United Nations. and she draws on her experience in the book through that, which is really, really beneficial. She also serves as an executive director of Stand Up Girls, helping tween girls develop relationships for greater self esteem. She's appeared in a variety of the top profile outlets. So, like CBS This Morning, MSNBC's Live Weekend Hardball Marketplace. She's been in the New York Times, the Wall Street Journal, and is the best selling author of Ask for More, 10 Questions to Negotiate Anything. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alexandrabcarter/  Key Topics Discussed: Positive Leadership, Negotiation, Sales Leadership, Self-Reflection, Emotional Intelligence, Empowerment, Mediation, Ask for More, Personal Growth, Open-Ended Questions, Understanding Customer Concerns, Overcoming Barriers, Defensive Questions, Managing Emotions, Internal Conflicts, Power of Silence, Effective Communication, Lead with Empathy, CEO Success Mentions: Ask For More: 10 Questions to Negotiate Anything by Alexandra Carter https://alexcarterasks.com/book/  More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

What truly drives creativity and innovation in the workplace? Join us as we sit down with Dr. Teresa Amabile from Harvard University, the brilliant and visionary author and researcher behind "The Progress Principle." Dr. Amabile's groundbreaking study, which involved analyzing over 12,000 diary entries, reveals the critical factors that influence employee creativity. We dive into the pivotal role of organizational culture, supervisory support, and team dynamics in fostering an environment where innovative ideas can flourish. Discover the fascinating "inner work life effect," derived from daily diary entries, which shows how positive emotions, perceptions, and intrinsic motivation lead to higher levels of creativity and productivity. We discuss the profound impact of managing setbacks and the surprising finding that many leaders mistakenly prioritize recognition over progress. Dr. Amabile provides valuable insights into how even small impediments can significantly affect employee creativity and productivity, emphasizing the importance of facilitating progress. Learn practical strategies for supporting your team's inner work life, with a focus on basic respect, recognition, encouragement, emotional support, and camaraderie. Finally, she offers advice on how to use diaries to track inner work life and reflect on progress, fostering a motivated and cohesive work environment. Don't miss this enriching conversation that promises to elevate your leadership skills and drive creativity within your team. What You’ll Learn: - The crucial role of organizational culture, supervisory support, and team dynamics. - Surprising findings about managers' misconceptions regarding employee motivation. - Practical strategies for leaders to support their teams effectively. - The power of progress over mere recognition in driving motivation. - A daily progress checklist inspired by Atul Gawande's "The Checklist Manifesto." Podcast Timestamps: (00:00) – What Can You Learn From 12,000 Diary Entries?  (11:49) - The Inner Work-Life Effect (24:51) - Managing Setbacks and Facilitating Progress (32:25) – The Vital Role of Interpersonal Support (46:08) – The Power of Checklists Who is Teresa? As Director of Research at Harvard Business School, Dr. Amabile has had the opportunity to interact with managers at all levels from a variety of industries. Most recently, Teresa collected over 12,000 diary entries from over 200 people working on 26 project teams. These diary entries gave Teresa insight into the inner work lives of the employees, allowing her to parse out what fosters creativity, progress, and ultimately a successful project. The results of this research can be found in her book: The Progress Principle: Using Small Wins to Ignite Joy, Engagement, and Creativity at Work. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/teresa-amabile-8542727/  Key Topics Discussed: Creativity, Innovation, Progress Principle, Organizational Culture, Supervisory Support, Team Dynamics, Inner Work Life Effect, Positive Emotions, Intrinsic Motivation, Managing Setbacks, Checklist Manifesto, Reflection, Diary, Gratitude, Connection, CEO Success Mentions: The Progress Principle by Teresa Amabile: https://www.amazon.ca/Progress-Principle-Ignite-Engagement-Creativity/dp/1491514353  Amy Edmondson: https://amycedmondson.com/ The Checklist Manifesto by Atul Gawande https://www.amazon.ca/Checklist-Manifesto-How-Things-Right/dp/0312430000/ref=sr_1_1?hvadid=208307794507&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9001326&hvnetw=g&hvqmt=e&hvrand=5539261850166569313&hvtargid=kwd-295612719286&hydadcr=2438_9638418&keywords=the+checklist+manifesto&qid=1698867545&sr=8-1  More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

In order for us to be effective leaders on the outside, we must be self-aware within. In a recent study of over half a million people, Travis Bradberry narrowed success down to one factor, self-awareness. Awareness is a vital skill to master in which your values, beliefs and behaviors have to be in alignment. Tasha Eurich illustrates the four ways all people embody this trait by examining their internal vs external loci of awareness. She breaks self-awareness down into four quadrants: seekers, introspectors, pleasers, and those who are aware. In this episode, Craig discerns how to understand which quadrant you fall underneath, as well as the key component to moving towards awareness: asking for feedback, one of the most inexpensive activities we can take on as leaders.  What You’ll Learn: 1. The key trait in mastering your external presence as a leader 2. The definition of self-awareness 3. Internal vs external awareness 4. The four types of awareness 5. The steps you need to take to move towards awareness Mentions: Self-Awareness: https://www.amazon.com/Self-Awareness-Hidden-Driver-Success-Satisfaction/dp/0399535314 Insight: https://www.amazon.com/Insight-Surprising-Others-Ourselves-Answers/dp/0525573941 More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

How can a positive leadership and company culture lead to massive success? How can this culture be spread throughout all offices in a company? In this episode, Roheel Ahmad answers these questions and more. What You’ll Learn: 1. Why Roheel gave his employees a 10% raise, across the board. 2. When your people do well, the business will do well. 3. How experiences can mean more than earnings. 4. How to be close with employees, but have high expectations. 5. How to make sure your positive company culture exists in all your offices. 6. Why good managing means serving your employees. 7. How job offers should be more like marriage proposals. Who is Roheel? Roheel Ahmad is Co-founder and Managing Partner of Forsyth Barnes, which over the past 8 years has grown to over 100 million pounds in revenue! Taking his company international, Roheel has opened an office in New York, with plans for Los Angeles and Dubai. A major focus for Roheel is company culture, leading to his great successes. The Financial Times has recognized FB as one of the fastest growing businesses in Europe. Follow Roheel: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roheelahmad/  More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

How can we get more women in leadership positions? How can collaboration foster growth in all of us? In this episode, Lindsay Glassco answers these questions and more. What You’ll Learn: 1. The qualities needed for a leader in the modern world. 2. How collaboration and consultation are an investment in outcomes. 3. How impact will follow a culture of authenticity and diversity. 4. How youth working with executives has improved the lives of both. 5. The importance of having diverse role models. 6. Why you need to celebrate the small successes. Who is Lindsay? Lindsay Glassco is President and CEO of Plan International Canada, which is a member of a global organization dedicated to advancing children's rights in over 80 countries. They exist to create a just world where children, especially girls, learn, lead, decide, and thrive. Lindsay is a dynamic leader with over 25 years of experience developing and managing social policies and programs in diverse environments worldwide. In 2023, under her leadership Plan International Canada has earned a place in Waterstones, Canada's most admired cultures hall of fame, the first non profit to receive this distinction, so a heartfelt congratulations. Lindsay also received the 2023 McGill Distinguished Leader Award. Before joining PLAN, Lindsay was based in Geneva, Switzerland, acting as Secretary General of CARE International. She has also held executive roles, including President and CEO of Special Olympics Canada and Global Director of Policy and Strategy for Right to Play. Lindsay is truly a global citizen, having lived and worked in over 60 countries. Follow Lindsay: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindsayglassco/  More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Are you ready to unlock the transformative power of the digital mindset? Join me as I engage in an enlightening discussion with Dr. Paul Leonardi, a renowned digital thought-leader and author of the compelling book, Digital Mindset: What It Really Takes to Thrive in the Age of Data, Algorithms and AI. We'll peel back the layers on the crucial role of technology in driving organizational change, and how a deft grasp on data, A.I. and algorithms can fuel performance and innovation in today's ever-evolving workspace. Picture yourself in the shoes of a corporate leader struggling with inclusive decision-making in a diverse team. How would you navigate this? Dr. Leonardo serves us an intriguing case study demonstrating how a digital mindset can be harnessed to rectify such a predicament. We'll also explore the importance of humility in cultivating this mindset and the level of technical proficiency required. It's a journey of discovery that challenges conventional wisdom and pushes the boundaries of strategic thinking. The digital landscape is an intimidating frontier for many. Together with Dr. Leonardi, we'll confront the fears surrounding new tech tools, unravel the potential of A.I. in generating value for your organization, and underscore the significance of data literacy and psychological safety amidst these changes. Moreover, we'll explore how leaders can maintain a meaningful and effective connection with their team in this digital age. Join us as we equip you with the essential tools to thrive in the exciting new world of digital transformation. What You’ll Learn: • Uncover the blueprint of the digital mindset and the essential skills for innovation in the modern workplace. • How a product leader transformed team decision-making with a digital approach. • Discover the level of technical proficiency required to harness the digital mindset effectively. • Strategies for overcoming the fear of new tech. • Explore the transformative potential of AI in creating space for creative thinking and innovation. • Understand the significance of data literacy and psychological safety in the context of digital transformation. Podcast Timestamps: (00:00) - Exploring the Digital Mindset (10:26) – The Power of the Digital Mindset (24:54) - Embracing A.I. for Digital Transformation (36:47) - Skill Building in a Digital Environment (44:54) - Data Literacy and the Importance of Psychological Safety Key Topics Discussed: Positive Leadership, Digital Mindset, A.I., Algorithms, Technological Advancement, Inclusive Decision-Making, Technological Proficiency, Humility, Digital Transformation, Data Literacy, Psychological Safety, A.I. Game-Changer, Creative Thinking, Strategic Conversations, Technological Innovation, Technology Disruption, CEO Success More of Paul: At UC Santa Barbara Dr. Leonardi is chair of the technology management department whose programs are all aimed at teaching engineers and other technical leaders how to build and run innovative companies. In addition to his extensive speaking and consulting work, he has published over 80 articles and chapters in peer reviewed journals and management outlets, including Harvard Business Review and Sloan Management Review. He's also the author of three books on innovation and organizational change. And he has won major awards for his research, including from very well respected organizations like the Academy of Management and the American Sociological Association. His most recent book, The Digital Mindset: What It Really Takes to Thrive in the Age of Data, Algorithms, and AI, explores digital literacy, the roles technology can play in our organizations, and how we can adapt with it. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-leonardi-45b67321/ Mentions: The Digital Mindset, Humble, The Right Kind of Wrong More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Today you’ll meet the visionary, Jan Ryde, a remarkable CEO, whose leadership has catapulted Hästens’ growth by an astounding 50,000%. Yes, you read that right! His unique philosophy explores how love serves as the foundation for Hästens’ entire organization, from its approach to craftsmanship to the way employees interact. We take you behind the scenes of Hästens, a 170-year-old family-owned business renowned for crafting the world's highest-quality beds and mattresses. Unlike the noisy, dusty image you might have, Hästens’ factory exudes serenity, calmness, and a deep sense of connection. So what makes them different? Hästens’ values and beliefs are authentically embodied by its people and leadership, reinforcing the philosophy outlined in Jan Ryde's upcoming book, When Business is Love. Hear Craig’s reaction to Jan’s question he proposed, "what makes you awesome?" Spoiler, it's not just about strengths but a deeper level of emotional engagement. Stay tuned for the full episode in January 2024, where we explore these concepts in even greater depth… More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Imagine stepping into a high-profile leadership role, just as a global pandemic hits. This was the reality for Tracey Black, President and CEO of Payments Canada. In our deeply insightful conversation, Tracey offers a candid look into her leadership style, the challenges she faced, and the lessons she learned. Have you ever considered the power of authenticity and empathy in leadership, especially in the face of adversity? Tracey emphasizes how these traits have not only shaped her as a leader, but have also been vital in navigating the pandemic and the challenges and opportunities it provided. From addressing the struggles faced by individuals with invisible disabilities, to maintaining constructive dialogue amidst conflict, her experiences underscore the need for understanding and commitment in leadership during difficult times. Finally, we address the undervalued importance of self-care and engaging in intentional networking. Tracey spotlights the myriad advantages that can spring from connecting with a diverse group of individuals - it's all about broadening perspectives and building relationships. She also speaks on the powerful role of mentors and sponsors in supporting one's growth, reminding us that no one climbs the ladder of success alone. What You’ll Learn: • The importance of authenticity and empathy in leadership • How to create inclusive work environments, including for those with invisible disabilities • Effective communication strategies for difficult conversations • Questions open doors; statements close doors • The benefits of networking and maintaining diverse interests • The influential role of mentors and sponsors in career growth Podcast Timestamps: (00:00) – Imagine Your First Day as CEO is the Start of a Pandemic (14:03) - Empathy and Understanding in Workplace Accommodations (17:18) – Maintaining Constructive Dialogue During Disagreements (29:25) – Self-care and the Power of Networking (34:47) – Taking Risks and Making Decisions with Incomplete Information (43:50) – The Impact of in-Person Connection Key Topics Discussed: Positive Leadership, Authenticity, Empathy, Integrity, Invisible Disabilities, Trust-Building, Inquiry, Constructive Dialogue, Managing Disagreements, Self-Care, Networking, Diverse Interests, Mentorship, Sponsors, In-Person Conversation, Meaningful Connection, Crisis Leadership, Gratitude More of Tracey: Tracey Black is the President and CEO of Payments Canada. Taking over the role in early 2020, Tracey saw the organization through a period of tremendous change. Payments Canada plays a vital role in supporting the Canadian economy as it ensures that our financial transactions are carried out safely and securely. In 2022, Payments Canada systems cleared and settled 119 trillion transactions. That works out to 476 billion every single business day! Tracey’s past experience includes executive roles at TD Canada Trust and RBC Royal Bank, and she's consulted extensively in the financial services industry as an independent consultant and with McKinsey Company. As President of GFH Group Inc. her responsibilities included the launch of chip cards or smart cards in Canada.  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracey-black-2606884/  More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

How can you energize your team, drive accountability, and foster a positive work environment as a remote leader? How can a leader harness the power of transparency to ignite a sense of ownership and empowerment within their team? In this episode, Shaun Kindopp answers these questions and more. What You’ll Learn: 1. When to practice the trial by fire method 2. Encouraging the right conflict within your team dynamic 3. Holding your team accountable from afar 4. The 4-day work week 5. Creating transparency in your organization 6. Allowing your team to take ownership of the results 7. The role of humble leadership 8. A questions first approach 9. Creating buy-in with your team for your vision 10. Maximizing your level of resilience 11. Being the leader you’d want to work for Who is Shaun? Shaun Kindopp is the CEO of the Canadian Western Agribition, which is the largest livestock show in Canada. This role has Shaun leading an international hub of agricultural excellence, which reaches over 1,200 international guests from over 63 countries. In this position, Shaun focuses on his passion for creating inclusive and collaborative cultures and streamlining processes. Before taking over his current role, Shaun has had a number of executive roles, including Director of Corporate Partnerships and Sales for the Regina Exhibition Association Limited, as well as Senior Account Executive of Corporate Partnerships for the Regina Pats Hockey Club Limited. These positions have instilled Shaun with the knowledge and experience of being a positive leader and have taught him many lessons that he will share with us today. Follow Shaun: LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/shaun-kindopp-2304b61ab?challengeId=AQE6t0bz3UHniwAAAYqQsZERY_1T_-2KkEgzkedveTR7hLhIMn3FIevBo270JJb2xImozLqZ7zuCR_jBSbOoH3tOpr6PrT9iZg&submissionId=2242ae5f-5996-8417-d4f0-cdf7cf534430&challengeSource=AgFk_Vo92DxlcQAAAYqQseKgjsZuzcN5cs6g01XUwfXZZ9WSX5wNhElx3Odh0ik&challegeType=AgGq2wsc3aMnEAAAAYqQseKj9nOnu5t4FTUH5Xj1mzRPbb3Npf2In6E&memberId=AgGyLRGZ8v3rhwAAAYqQseKmBR-ZekBUid29ZobrS-OhBtA&recognizeDevice=AgFoaaptr9MMWQAAAYqQseKoNhm1CdfaiZRWT9kC9luwM2cWoVe1  More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/