Do Good To Lead Well with Craig Dowden

As the magnetic force behind Wajax, Iggy Domogalski joins us to unravel the threads of positive leadership and their undeniable influence on his corporate culture. Bringing with him a storied career that weaves through executive roles and philanthropic endeavors, Iggy imparts the must-have leadership skills that allow today's movers and shakers to not only adapt to change but to lead it. Our dialogue spans the spectrum from strategic vision to the art of inspiration, all anchored by real-world examples. Our conversation with Iggy takes an intimate turn when we contemplate the interplay of luck, gratitude, and mentorship in shaping one's career path. He shares stories of pivotal moments and celebrates the enduring support that companies can offer during life-altering events, reinforcing the importance of a compassionate workplace. The discourse on personal growth doesn't end there; we also delve into strategies for fostering innovation. Hear how one of Wajax's products exemplifies the importance of aligning purpose with performance and gain insights into the delicate balance of integrating AI technology in the workplace without losing the human touch. We round out our discussion by peering into the future, deconstructing how AI and machine learning are reshaping the workplace, and emphasizing the undiminished value of empathy amidst these technological strides. Iggy's perspectives on leading a company through acquisitions and the transition to hybrid work environments stand as a testament to the resilience and adaptability required of contemporary leaders. This episode isn't just a conversation; it’s a masterclass in the evolving landscape of leadership that is sure to leave you equipped and inspired to navigate your own professional journey. What You’ll Learn: • Iggy’s career success and philanthropic impact. • The role of luck, mentorship, and gratitude in shaping our professional journeys. • Embracing innovation and nurturing a 'say-do' ratio that resonates with action. • The crafting and communication of organizational values that genuinely represent company culture. • How AI and machine learning are revolutionizing the workplace without diminishing the value of empathy. • The agility required to lead through acquisitions and transitions to hybrid work environments. • Iggy's personal experience transitioning to the role of CEO. Podcast Timestamps: (00:00) – Wajax: Anchored in Positive Leadership (11:12) - The Power of Luck and Gratitude (16:51) - Fostering Innovation Through Listening  (23:49) - Crafting and Communicating Organizational Values (31:18) – The A.I. and Remote Work Revolution (38:45) – Navigating Company Acquisitions (44:05) - Transitioning to CEO Role Key Topics Discussed: Positive Leadership, Adaptability, Strategic Vision, Inspiration, Mentorship, Core Values, Driving Innovation, Leading with Purpose, Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Workplace Dynamics, Empathy, Resilience, Hybrid Work Environments, Mergers and Acquisitions, CEO Success More of Iggy: Iggy Domagalski is the CEO of Wajax, one of Canada's longest standing industrial services providers. Iggy served as the CEO of Tundra Process Solutions Limited when he was approached for a buyout of his company by Wajax. In addition to his professional achievements, Iggy is actively involved in fundraising and has served on the boards of organizations such as the Learning Disabilities Association and the Kids Cancer Care Foundation. He has received notable accolades, including being named one of Canada's "Top 40 Under 40" and one of the country's "50 Most Inspirational Entrepreneurs." Iggy's impact is further recognized by an award named in his honor, given annually by a student body since 2004. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/iggydomagalski/?originalSubdomain=ca More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

How do you establish a positive work culture? Where does an organization’s values arise from? In this episode, Garry answers these questions and more. What You’ll Learn: 1. The Petri dish analogy of growing culture at your company 2. Addressing toxic behavior from high performers 3. Five lessons from tribal communities 4. Identifying if you’re an accidental soul sucking CEO 5. Replacing your managers with coaches 6. Defining your organization’s values and distributing authority 7. The three most important words to learn in your life are I don’t know 8. Flying through turbulence as the captain of the plane 9. What constitutes accountability and how to command it as a leader 10. Taking the Maniac Pledge Who is Garry Ridge? Garry Ridge is the Chairman Emeritus at the WD-40 Company. Under his leadership, WD-40 Company grew their market cap from $250 million to nearly $2.5 billion. He's also a bestselling author and adjunct professor at the University of San Diego, where he teaches the principles and practices of corporate culture and the master of science and executive leadership. He further delves into these principles in his three books: The Unexpected Learning Moment: Lessons in Leading a Thriving Culture through Lockdown 2020, Tribe Culture: How it Shaped WD-40 Company, and the co-authored, Helping People Win at Work: A Business Philosophy called Don’t Mark My Paper, Help Me Get an A. He's been named one of the top 10 most admired CEOs in the world by Inc. Magazine. Simon Sinek has called him Igniter of the Year, Global Gurus in 2021. Now, Garry is busy writing a new book called Any Dumb Ass Can Do It. Mentions: Helping People Win at Work: A Business Philosophy called Don’t Mark My Paper, Help Me Get an A: https://www.amazon.com/Helping-People-Win-Work-Philosophy/dp/0137011717/ref=sr_1_2?qid=1684957917&refinements=p_27%3AGarry+Ridge&s=books&sr=1-2 Tribe Culture: How it Shaped WD-40 Company: https://www.amazon.com/TRIBE-CULTURE-Shaped-WD-40-Company-ebook/dp/B08DJBZKDP/ref=sr_1_3?qid=1684957917&refinements=p_27%3AGarry+Ridge&s=books&sr=1-3 The Unexpected Learning Moment: Lessons in Leading a Thriving Culture through Lockdown 2020: https://www.amazon.com/UNEXPECTED-LEARNING-MOMENT-Thriving-Lockdown-ebook/dp/B09649CDTM/ref=sr_1_4?qid=1684957917&refinements=p_27%3AGarry+Ridge&s=books&sr=1-4 Follow Garry: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garryridge/ More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Craig discusses his key learnings from the North American Business Summit that he recently attended. The summit brought together CEOs and business leaders from Canada, the US, and Mexico to discuss pressing issues in North American businesses. First, it is essential to test our assumptions in today's fast-paced world. As things change rapidly, it is important to evaluate our beliefs and hypotheses to determine their validity and whether they serve us well. Continuous learning is crucial to update our thinking and remain open to new information and experiences. Second, instead of taking an either-or approach, it is beneficial to look for opportunities that balance and integrate different priorities. This mindset allows for more compelling and valuable decision-making. Third, there is an increasing need to listen to oneself and be aware of physiological, emotional and psychological data. Listening to others and engaging in collaborative conversations is essential for understanding different perspectives and making informed decisions, especially in complex situations. The summit's overarching theme of "stronger together" highlights the significance of human connection and cooperation. Doing good and performing well are not competing priorities. Business leaders can achieve positive results while also making a positive impact on their communities. More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

When it comes to driving successful projects across the finish line, how can leaders ensure their team is motivated and equipped? In this episode, Clint Padgett answers this question and more. What You’ll Learn: 1. The three steps along the worry curve 2. How to make a plan that creates commitment and accountability 3. The difference between communication and conversation 4. How to work and hire effectively in a remote environment  5. The key ingredients of management by commitment Who is Clint? Clint Padgett is the CEO and President of Project Success Incorporated, where he helps leaders and their team implement repeatable, sustainable strategies to deliver high-stakes projects on time, on target. As a ForbesBooks featured author, his first book, The Project Success Method, offers a unique and effective methodology for planning, managing, and closing out projects on time and within budget. In his second book, How Teams Triumph: Managing By Commitment, he provides a blueprint for building strong foundations for cross-functional teams through conversation and commitment. Mentions: The Project Success Method: https://www.amazon.com/Project-Success-Method-Achieving-Performance/dp/0470455837 How Teams Triumph: Managing By Commitment: https://books.forbes.com/books/how-teams-triumph-managing-by-commitment/ Follow Clint: Website: https://projectsuccess.com/ Website: https://clintonmpadgett.com/ More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Communication is an invaluable skill to master as an inspiring leader. How do you better equip yourself to learn and grow this skillset? In this episode, Brian Mills answers this question and more. What You’ll Learn: 1. How onboarding is a two way street 2. Using data and market intelligence to communicate process change 3. How to structure an open forum conversation 4. Using a disc profile to learn to communicate 5. How to scenario plan in the current environment 6. Tell it all, tell it early communication style 7. What it takes to build resiliency in yourself and your organization 8. What is your say, do ratio? 9. Using the 360 method to identify your skill gaps Who is Brian? Brian Mills is the president of US Water Filters. Prior to joining USWF, he was the Chief Commercial Officer with Glen Dimplex Americas, where he led the commercial strategy on a turnaround objective in the North American market, resulting in 200% growth. Prior to Glen Duplex, Brian engineered the turnaround of the electrical enclosure division of Pentair for the Canadian market. He also held the Vice President of Business Development role for Can Water Group, the divestiture from Culligan International Company. Follow Brian: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianjmills/ More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

With the world in a constant state of flux, how do you manage change? You only have two options: be the recipient or be the cause. In this episode, Caroline Riseboro discusses these two options and more. What You’ll Learn: 1. Where should decisions be made within your organization? 2. The value of transparency 3. Grit is the most common trait of successful people 4. Sharing your experience is key to addressing loneliness and creating rapport within your team 5. How to set performance expectations 6. The soft skills that are invaluable for this new economy 7. As a leader, do you need to have all the answers? Who is Caroline? Caroline Riseboro currently serves as the President and CEO of Trillium Health Partners Foundation, one of the largest hospitals in Canada. In 2019, Caroline was awarded Canada’s most admired CEO in the broader public sector. Twice, she’s been named one of Canada's 100 Most Powerful Women. She remains the youngest person in history to lead a major Canadian charity.  Follow Caroline: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/criseboro/?originalSubdomain=ca More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

We are all the narrators of our own lives. How are the stories we’re telling ourselves affecting our ability to frame an effective response? Can we increase our learning agility? In this episode, Craig answers these questions and more. What You’ll Learn: 1. The two key benefits of taking a vacation 2. With every bit of knowledge at our fingertips, reassessing, relearning and curating information are the skills to mastering our learning agility 3. The stories we tell ourselves can limit our ability to frame an effective response 4. The concept of pronoia and how can you leverage it Mentions: Ed Hess Episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/quiet-your-ego-and-become-a-better-listener-ed-hess/id1634491338?i=1000608732845 Sally Helgesen Episode: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/creating-an-inclusive-workplace-sally-helgesen/id1634491338?i=1000609762920 Hyper-Learning: How to Adapt to the Speed of Change: https://www.amazon.com/Hyper-Learning-How-Adapt-Speed-Change/dp/1523089245 Humility is the New Smart: Rethinking Excellence: https://www.amazon.com/Humility-New-Smart-Rethinking-Excellence-ebook/dp/B01LX9DDUE How Women Rise: http://www.howwomenrise.com/ Rising Together: How We Can Bridge Divides and Create a More Inclusive Workplace: https://www.amazon.com/Rising-Together-Divides-Inclusive-Workplace/dp/0306828308 More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Join us for an eye-opening conversation with Sally Helgeson, the world's foremost authority on women's leadership and the brilliant mind behind the book "Rising Together: How We Can Bridge Divides and Create a More Inclusive Workplace." Discover how an unexpected encounter at a construction conference illuminated the urgent need for practical strategies to foster inclusion, and how Sally's extensive research has crafted actionable methods for building inclusive relationships, teams, and workplaces. Throughout this episode, we explore the various narratives that shape our professional interactions, particularly when triggered by feelings of invisibility. Using real-world examples, we discuss the importance of identifying and addressing specific triggers to prevent negative emotions from hindering constructive action. We also emphasize the value of peer support and informal coaching in reframing negative perceptions into learning opportunities. By examining the balance of contributions in discussions about inclusion and equity, we highlight the significance of seeking feedback and consulting colleagues to avoid miscommunication and foster positive development. Sally's expertise further guides us through the challenges of navigating bias and fairness in the workplace. She shares practical advice on learning from those who self-promote effectively and turning potentially toxic situations into collaborative professional relationships. Additionally, we tackle the pitfalls of unconscious bias training and the "authenticity trap," advocating for a focus on observable actions and behaviors that lead to meaningful change. To round off the conversation, we discuss the importance of self-awareness and the nuanced use of humor in professional settings. Don't miss this compelling episode filled with valuable insights and strategies to enhance inclusive leadership. What You’ll Learn: • Discover the motivations behind Sally's latest book and her mission to provide practical steps for inclusive leadership. • Learn how to address your triggers and transform negative emotions into constructive actions. • The critical role of self-promotion in navigating your career. • Explore the limitations of unconscious bias training and the pitfalls of the "authenticity trap." • Understand the role of self-awareness and humor in professional settings. Podcast Timestamps: (00:00) – An Introduction to Rising Together (11:17) - Navigating Triggers and Negative Self-Narratives (18:28) - Building Inclusive Environments (29:22) - Navigating Bias in Organizations (39:01) - Balancing Authenticity and Professionalism (48:51) – The Do’s and Don’ts of Humor in the Workplace Key Topics Discussed: Positive Leadership, Women's Leadership, Inclusive Workplace, Women in Male-Dominated Sectors, Inclusive Relationships, Triggers, Negative Narratives, Informal Coaching, Peer Support, Overcoming Barriers, The Art of Self-Promotion, Discrimination, Toxic Situations, Unconscious Bias Training, Authenticity Trap, Authenticity, Marginalization, Self-Awareness, Humor, Powerlessness. More of Sally Helgesen? Sally Helgesen is recognized in Forbes as the world's premier expert on women's leadership. Her distinguished career spans over 30 years as an internationally best-selling author, speaker, and leadership coach. She has been inducted into the Thinkers 50 Hall of Fame and ranked number 3 among the world's thought leaders by Global Gurus. Sally's latest book, Rising Together: How We Can Bridge Divides and Create a More Inclusive Workplace, soared to Amazon’s number one best seller in its first week and offers practical ways to build more inclusive relationships, teams, and workplaces. Sally's remarkable success with How Women Rise, co-authored with legendary executive coach Marshall Goldsmith, examines the behaviors that most commonly hinder women's success as they advance in their careers. Sally's other notable works include The Female Advantage: Women's Ways of Leadership, a classic in its field and continuously in print since 1990, and The Web of Inclusion: A New Architecture for Building Great Organizations, which has been cited in The Wall Street Journal as one of the best books on leadership of all time. The latter work is also credited with bringing the language of inclusion into business. Website: https://sallyhelgesen.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sallyhelgesen/ Mentions: Rising Together: How We Can Bridge Divides and Create a More Inclusive Workplace: https://www.amazon.com/Rising-Together-Divides-Inclusive-Workplace/dp/0306828308 More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

As humans we’re constantly seeking confirmation of what we believe and affirmation of our ego. What possibilities would be unlocked if you became the best version of yourself? Is the journey to the best self ever complete? In this episode, Ed Hess answers these questions and more. What You’ll Learn: 1. The skills to be a highly adaptive learner in the face of the current technological revolution 2. The biggest competition you’ll have going forward is you. How do you overcome the biases you have? 3. How to take ownership of your mind, emotions and behaviors 4. A mindful breath work meditation exercise that’ll quiet your ego, mind, body and emotions so you can better focus on listening and relating to others 5. Hacks to becoming a better listener Who is Ed? Ed Hess is a best selling author of 15 books, 160 practitioner articles, and 60 Darden business cases on topics related to business growth, innovation, and entrepreneurship, including Hyper-Learning: How to Adapt to the Speed of Change and Own Your Work Journey: The Path to Meaningful Work and Happiness in the Age of Smart Technology and Radical Change. His work has been featured in numerous publications, including The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, and Harvard Business Review. Ed Hess is a Professor Emeritus of Business Administration and Batten Executive-in-Residence at the Darden Graduate School of Business at the University of Virginia. He is also the Founder and Executive Director of the Darden School's Center for Entrepreneurship and Innovation, and the Co-Director of the Darden School's Leading Growth and Change executive education program. Prior to his academic career, Ed was a successful entrepreneur and business executive. He co-founded and served as the CEO of The Martin Agency, one of the largest advertising agencies in the United States. He also served as the CEO of another successful advertising agency, and held senior marketing positions at two Fortune 500 companies. Mentions: Own Your Work Journey: The Path to Meaningful Work and Happiness in the Age of Smart Technology and Radical Change: https://www.amazon.com/OWN-YOUR-WORK-JOURNEY-Meaningful/dp/B0BW2SL7Q3 Follow Ed: Website: https://www.edhess.org/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/edward-hess-41638b16/?locale=ms_MY More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Equifax Canada's President and CEO, Sue Hutchison, joins us to unravel the fabric of leadership in the face of adversity. Steering a corporate giant through the pandemic's upheaval and an integration to the cloud, Sue shares her profound insights on virtual onboarding, cultivating connections in a remote landscape, and the invaluable lessons learnt from a peek into the personal lives of her team. Her approach to nurturing a corporate culture underscores the importance of empathy and transparency in a leader's toolkit. Navigating a company through transformative times demands a unique blend of optimism and emotional intelligence, qualities that Sue embodies and advocates for. In our discussion, she emphasizes the art of celebrating team victories and the necessity of integrating diverse viewpoints for a well-rounded strategy. The intimate interplay between trustworthy leadership and the successful migration to new technological frontiers is a recurring theme—underscoring the power of adaptability and clear communication in the face of change. Our conversation takes a deeper dive into the impact of leadership on mental health and personal growth. Sue and I reflect on the critical bonds solidified during the global crisis and the revelation of life's fragility, which fuels our zest for authentic engagement and mindful living. This episode is an exploration of the human side of corporate leadership, touching on the influence of vulnerability, the commitment to diversity in hiring, and the ways we can draw strength from our networks during our most challenging times. Sue's journey is not just a testament to resilient leadership but an invitation to embrace the growth that comes with it. What You’ll Learn: • The challenges and opportunities of virtual leadership. • The role of empathy in successfully guiding large-scale transformation. • The interplay of personal and professional growth. • Impact of leadership on mental health.  • Diversity and inclusion in hiring. • Resilience and adaptability in leadership Podcast Timestamps: (00:00) - Leading Through Change (08:58) - Leadership Qualities for Successful Transformations (21:06) - Leadership, Mental Health, and Connection (35:38) - Leadership Impact and Personal Growth Key Topics Discussed: Positive Leadership, Equifax Canada, Adversity, Virtual Onboarding, Remote Work, Corporate Culture, Empathy, Transparency, Optimism, Emotional Intelligence, Celebrating Team Victories, Diverse Viewpoints, Adaptability, Clear Communication, Mental Health, Personal Growth, Vulnerability, Diversity in Hiring, Authentic Engagement, Mindful Living, Resilient Leadership, Transformation, Building Trust, Stress Management, Personal Well-being, Workplace Dynamics, Vulnerability, Personal and Professional Networks, CEO Success More of Sue: In 2020, Sue Hutchison joined Equifax Canada as President and General Manager. With 30 years of experience in the financial services, credit and lending industries, Sue has held several senior leadership roles including those with MasterCard, Payments Canada, HSBC Bank, and Bank of America. She's also an active board member of Home Capital Group, has served as an advisory board member for Women in Payments, a board member for BC Women in Hospital Foundation, and the Nature Conservancy of Canada. She now leads Equifax’s transformation from its tremendous legacy into a 100% cloud-based data insights and technology company.  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suehutchison/?originalSubdomain=ca More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/