Join us for an eye-opening conversation with Jerry Kaplan, a leading authority in artificial intelligence and a prolific entrepreneur, as we unpack the profound implications of generative A.I. Jerry, an adjunct lecturer at Stanford, dives into his motivations behind his latest book, "Generative Artificial Intelligence: What Everyone Needs to Know," stressing the necessity of understanding this fast-paced field. We dissect what generative A.I. is, the distinctions it holds from previous A.I. waves, and the vast potential it has in reshaping our interactions with technology and society at large. Throughout our discussion, we explore the seismic shifts generative A.I. is bringing to the job market and the broader workforce. From the evolution of work since the 1800s to contemporary changes, we see how technological advancements have altered job roles—sometimes displacing old ones while creating new opportunities. Generative A.I. stands poised to revolutionize creative and analytical tasks, even in software development, while underscoring the enduring importance of human empathy and personal interaction in a rapidly changing job landscape. We also delve into the rise of emotionally expressive A.I. and its societal impacts, from elder care to reducing political extremism. Jerry provides valuable insights into the concepts of A.I. hallucination and superintelligence, debunking myths and emphasizing the responsible use of A.I. technologies. Our conversation wraps up with a forward-looking perspective on the future of A.I. and society, highlighting the need to address wealth inequality and ensure the benefits of A.I. are widely distributed, fostering a more equitable and optimistic future. What You’ll Learn: • What is Generative A.I. • How is Generative A.I. different from previous waves of A.I.? • The seismic disruptions from A.I. in the job market. • The rise of emotionally expressive AI and its impacts on society. • The innovative potentials and the ethical challenges we face with Generative A.I. • The critical importance of empathy in an A.I.-driven world. Podcast Timestamps: (00:00) – What is Generative Artificial Intelligence? (04:56) - Impacts of Generative A.I. (12:36) - Job Market Shifts Due to Automation (26:28) - Rise of Emotional A.I. Companions (41:00) – A.I. Hallucination and A.I. Superintelligence (52:14) - The Future of A.I. and Society More of Jerry: Jerry Kaplan is a distinguished Artificial Intelligence expert, serial entrepreneur, technical innovator, educator, and bestselling author. He holds a PhD in Computer and Information Science from the University of Pennsylvania, specializing in AI, and a BA from the University of Chicago. Kaplan has founded numerous technology startups, two of which became public companies, and has been a key contributor to the development of groundbreaking technologies such as tablet computers, smartphones, online auctions, and social computer games. Currently, he is an Adjunct Lecturer at Stanford University, where he teaches about the social and economic impact of AI. Kaplan's literary contributions include four influential books, with his latest, "Generative Artificial Intelligence: What Everyone Needs to Know," offering a comprehensive exploration of AI's evolving landscape. His work has earned him recognition in major publications and accolades such as the Ernst & Young Emerging Entrepreneur of the Year award. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jerry-kaplan/ Key Topics Discussed: Positive Leadership, Artificial Intelligence, Generative A.I., Automation, Technological Advancements, Workforce Disruption, Emotional A.I., Superintelligence, Wealth Inequality, Responsible Use of Technology, A.I. Hallucination, Future of A.I., Ethics for Artificial Intelligence, Natural Language Processing More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Today, we are joined by Joe Davis, Managing Director and Senior Partner at the Boston Consulting Group, who has navigated his remarkable career from a humble start as a sales rep at Procter & Gamble to steering BCG North America through the turbulent waters of the COVID-19 pandemic. Joe shares insights from his latest book, "The Generous Leader," and discusses how fostering positive cultures and championing people has shaped his leadership style, aligning perfectly with our "Do Good to Lead Well" philosophy. Joe Davis' journey is more than just a career path; it's a testament to the power of honesty and openness in leadership. He walks us through instances of profound vulnerability, highlighting how saying "I don't know" can build trust and authenticity within teams. Joe challenges traditional leadership paradigms, presenting a compelling case for the transformative power of generous leadership. From the importance of asking questions to fostering inclusive environments, Joe shines a light on the importance of leading with heart and authenticity. We explore how simple gestures of recognition can strengthen team bonds and promote an inclusive atmosphere. With insights from industry titans and practical advice for leaders at all levels, this episode is filled with actionable insights for anyone looking to take their leadership to the next level. What You’ll Learn: • The essence of generous leadership • The power of asking over telling • The significance of vulnerability during challenging times • The impact of small gestures of recognition • Strategies for fostering an inclusive and diverse work environment Podcast Timestamps: (00:00) – The Journey to Generous Leader (12:13) – What Is A Generous Leadership? (15:36) - The Power of Generous Leadership (20:43) - Effective Questioning is the Cornerstone of Effective Leadership (28:46) – Vulnerability in Generous Leadership (36:20) - Inclusive Leadership Through Action (44:28) - Empathy and Perspective-Taking Key Topics Discussed: Positive Leadership, Transformational Leadership, Vulnerability, Empathy, Questioning, Leading Teams, Boston Consulting Group, The Generous Leader, Human Connections, Inclusive Work Environment, Authenticity, Generosity, Diversity and Inclusion, Role Modeling, Perspective-Taking, Active Listening, Navigating Biases, Managing A Diverse Workforce More of Joe: Joe Davis is a Managing Director and Senior Partner at Boston Consulting Group (BCG), where he chairs BCG's Center for Inclusion and Equity and is the North America Regional Chair Emeritus. Since joining BCG in 1988, Joe has held various leadership roles, including co-founding the Washington, DC office and launching BCG’s Federal Public Sector practice during the 2008 banking crisis. His public sector work earned him recognition as one of Consulting Magazine’s Top 25 Consultants in 2011. Joe also led BCG’s West Coast, where he played a key role in bringing Super Bowl 50 to San Francisco. In addition to his BCG responsibilities, he serves as Vice Chairman of B Capital Group. Before BCG, Joe worked at Procter & Gamble. He holds a BA in Economics from Whitman College and an MBA from Harvard Business School. Joe has been married to his spouse, Sarah, for over 35 years and has four children. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joedavis1313/ More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Is people development truly the key to business success and societal impact? Join us as we welcome Catherine Allen, co-founder and Chief Impact Officer of AO People Partners, who passionately argues that it is. Catherine sheds light on the transformative power of intentional people development while advocating for a paradigm shift where developing interpersonal skills, such as emotional intelligence, becomes a strategic priority, especially during challenging times. We break down the essential soft skills into core mind skills and people skills. Catherine shares her insights on cognitive-based abilities like executive function, adaptability, and creativity, as well as emotional intelligence-derived skills such as empathy and active listening. Emphasizing the gap between knowledge and practice, Catherine underscores the significance of daily practice and supportive environments for skill development. Learn how these skills are best cultivated through consistent interactions and behaviors within organizations. Our discussion culminates in the creation of a growth-minded, development-centric culture. Catherine illustrates the vital role leaders play in modeling continuous learning and authenticity. She shares real-life examples, including a software company leader who turned project failure into a profound learning opportunity. Discover how fostering a growth mindset, embedding learning rituals, and normalizing a shared language around development can elevate both individual performance and organizational success. Dive into the practical steps leaders can take to embed development into the core of business strategy, ultimately contributing to a thriving workplace and society. What You’ll Learn: • The importance of rethinking why and how organizations develop their employees. • Distinguishing between core mind skills and people skills. • The gap between knowing and doing. • How to create supportive environments to integrate these skills into everyday interactions. • Compelling real-life examples of putting these skills into practice.  • Practical steps to foster a culture of development and continuous learning. Podcast Timestamps: (00:00) - Reimagining People Development in Business (12:15) - Developing Core Soft Skills in Business (19:22) - Fostering a Growth Mindset in Organizations (26:46) – A Model for Leadership Development (42:59) - Creating a Development-Centric Culture More of Catherine: Catherine Allen is the co-founder and Chief Impact Officer of AO People Partners, a leadership development and culture transformation firm dedicated to inspiring and supporting the conscious practice of people development and culture. She specializes in helping executive leaders and teams own, model, and drive the integration of business and people development within their organizations. With a 30-year track record in leadership and consulting, Catherine assists executive leaders in designing strategies, navigating the complex human realities of organizational life. She holds an MS in Conflict Analysis and Resolution from George Mason University. Catherine is also the co-author of "Conscious, Capable, and Ready to Contribute: How Employee Development Can Become the Highest Form of Social Contribution." LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/catherineallenao/ Mentions: Conscious, Capable, and Ready to Contribute: How Employee Development Can Become the Highest Form of Social Contribution by Ed Offterdinger and Catherine Allen  Key Topics Discussed: Positive Leadership, Employee Development, Societal Impact, Intentional People Development, Interpersonal Skills, Emotional Intelligence, Navigating Challenging Times, Developing Soft Skills, Growth Mindset, Creativity, Empathy, Active Listening, Organizational Change, Self-awareness, Authenticity, Continuous Learning, Development-Centric Culture More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Ever struggled with how to deliver effective feedback? Have you ever wondered if there is such a thing as too much honesty? How can I share my truth without hurting the other person? If so, this episode is definitely for you. Join me as I speak with Kim Scott, the bestselling author of "Radical Candor" and "Radical Respect," to share her profound insights on effective interpersonal and workplace dynamics. We open the conversation by diving into the complexities of addressing implicit biases and fostering an inclusive environment. Kim recounts a transformative moment that led her to champion radical respect. In this enlightening conversation, we break down the often misunderstood concepts of bias, prejudice, and bullying, providing you with practical strategies to tackle each issue head-on. Learn how "I" statements can address unconscious biases, "it" statements can confront prejudice, and "you" statements can effectively call out bullying. We emphasize the importance of speaking up against wrongdoing and making conscious decisions that align with your personal values to foster a respectful and positive workplace culture. Join us as we explore the pivotal role of radical candor in communication, especially in fast-paced environments where honest feedback can transform team dynamics. Our engaging dialogue offers strategies for discussing diversity, equity, and inclusion with a growth mindset, underscoring the significance of grace and understanding in fostering a more inclusive and respectful work environment. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for leaders committed to nurturing a culture of respect and positive team dynamics. What You’ll Learn: • The subtle but critical differences between bias, prejudice, and bullying. • Practical strategies to address bias, prejudice, and bullying - hint: they are not the same. • The critical role of honest feedback and radical candor in fast-paced environments. • Fostering a culture of inclusion, diversity, and equity with a growth mindset. • Confronting unconscious biases and overcoming workplace bullying with respect Podcast Timestamps: (00:00) – An Introduction to Radical Respect (10:55) - Effective Communication Strategies for Speaking with Respect (26:38) - Fostering Radical Candor in Communication (33:04) - Creating a Culture of Radical Respect (39:13) - Confronting Bias in the Workplace (45:53) - Challenging Bias with Grace  (51:59) – How to Confront Workplace Bullying with Respect More of Kim: Kim Scott is the bestselling author of "Radical Respect: How to Work Together Better" and "Radical Candor: Be a Kickass Boss Without Losing Your Humanity." She co-founded Radical Candor and has served as a CEO coach at Dropbox, Qualtrics, Twitter, and other tech companies. Kim was also a faculty member at Apple University and previously led the AdSense, YouTube, and DoubleClick teams at Google. Kim co-hosts the podcasts "Radical Candor" and "Radical Respect" and lives with her family in Silicon Valley. Her books are highly regarded and frequently referenced by coaches and speakers, who find her ideas and principles transformative in both their personal and professional lives. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimm4/  Mentions: Radical Respect: How To Work Together Better by Kim Scott Radical Candor: Be a Kickass Boss Without Losing Your Humanity by Kim Scott Key Topics Discussed: Positive Leadership, Respectful Workplace, Radical Candor, Radical Respect, Effective Communication, Overcoming Bias, Dealing with Prejudice, Bullying, Effective Feedback, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Growth Mindset, Positive Culture, Workplace Dynamics, Conscious Decision-Making, Team Success, Honest Communication, Unconscious Bias, Inclusive Environment, Toxic Behavior More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

As we continue to experiment in the Do Good to Lead Well universe, for this month’s solo episode, I am happy to share a very engaging conversation I had as a featured guest on the Leader Chat podcast. We dig into both of my books (Do Good to Lead Well and A Time to Lead) to examine the science and practice of positive leadership.  Leadership isn't just about guiding others—in fact, it starts with leading yourself. Drawing on wisdom from past guests of this podcast like Doug Conant, former CEO of Campbell Soup, we highlight that how we manage our mindset and emotions profoundly affects our ability to foster high performance and innovation. We also touch on the idea that our emotions are vital data points to be learned from rather than feelings to be feared. We also unpack evidence-informed strategies for giving and receiving feedback while maintaining a nurturing environment. Finally, we close the conversation talking about strategies to overcome the fear of conflict. In fact, difficult conversations represent a powerful opportunity to learn and grow. We also identify several strategies to navigate conflict more effectively.  I hope you enjoy this special episode where I am now in the guest chair. What You’ll Learn: • What is positive leadership? • The crucial role of mindset and emotions in leadership • The benefit of viewing our emotions as valuable data points about our inner world • Practical strategies for giving and receiving (critical) feedback • How self-awareness and emotional intelligence drives performance, innovation, and engagement • The importance of prioritizing personal growth and reflection Podcast Timestamps: (00:55) - Introduction (16:24) Navigating Our Mindset and Emotions (25:54) The Power of Feedback in Leadership Excellence (38:10) Maximizing Self-Awareness as a Leader (50:18) Concluding Thoughts and the Future of Leadership More of Jeff: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjeffrose/ Mentions: https://www.cognia.org/news-events/podcasts/leader-chat/ Key Topics Discussed: Positive Leadership, Leadership Development, The Science and Practice of Leadership, The Psychology of Leadership, Self-awareness, Mastering our Mindset, Managing Emotions, Giving and Receiving Feedback, Emotional Intelligence, Peak Performance, Innovation, Employee Engagement, Personal Growth, Self-Reflection, Learning from Mistakes, Expressing Gratitude, Empathy, VUCA World More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

What are the ingredients for truly successful leadership? Vera Quinn, President and CEO of Cydcor, joins us to dissect the qualities that set great leaders apart. From her journey in door-to-door sales to navigating the complexities of the Corner Office, Vera's experiences illuminate the themes of self-awareness, integrity, and resilience. She candidly discusses the importance of leaders being brutally honest about their strengths and weaknesses and shares how focusing on service and the development of others transforms organizations. Throughout our conversation, we uncover practical strategies to enhance leadership effectiveness. Vera highlights the significance of understanding and adapting to different personalities to driving personal and collective success. She offers invaluable tips on managing high-stakes, emotional conversations, emphasizing the power of taking breaks and regaining composure. Real-life anecdotes from Vera’s career underscore the message that persistence and resilience are key to overcoming professional setbacks. Curiosity emerges as a pivotal theme, as Vera illustrates how a mindset of continuous learning fosters growth. We discuss the importance of acknowledging mistakes and modeling authenticity and accountability. Vera shares her personal journey of overcoming self-doubt and embracing the belief that with enough dedication, anyone can achieve greatness. Aspiring and experienced leaders alike will find inspiration in her advice on self-improvement and the importance of nurturing a positive internal dialogue. Tune in for an episode filled with actionable insights and heartfelt reflections on the essence of true leadership. What You’ll Learn: • How to master self-awareness through honest self-assessment. • The importance of integrity and resilience in leadership. • Practical strategies for managing high-stakes conversations with empathy. • Building and nurturing a people-first culture. • The power of curiosity. • Why admitting mistakes accelerates your leadership effectiveness. Podcast Timestamps: (00:03) – The Key Qualities of Successful Leadership (15:53) – Difficult Conversations and the Importance of Leading with Empathy (25:26) - Developing People and Building a Peak Performance Culture (37:15) - The Power of Curiosity in Leadership (49:55) - Unleashing Greatness in Yourself and Others More of Vera: Vera Quinn, CEO and President of Cydcor, has been instrumental in the company's growth for over 25 years. Beginning her career as a door-to-door sales representative, she rose through key roles such as COO and VP of Operations, showcasing her entrepreneurial spirit and effective leadership. Since taking the helm in 2020, Cydcor has been celebrated for its people-first culture and recognized as a great place to work. Vera's leadership has fueled client base expansion and the development of innovative strategies, including touchless selling technologies during the COVID-19 pandemic. Named one of the top 10 influential women leaders of 2024, Vera studied political science and history at the University of Toronto and serves as the Executive Director of Liberty Children’s Home in Belize. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/veraquinn/  Mentions: The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey Key Topics Discussed: Positive Leadership, Self-awareness, Integrity, Resilience, Authenticity, Purpose, Personality Assessment, Empathy, Innovation, People-first Culture, Personal Growth, Professional Growth, Hiring, Core Values, Curiosity, Accountability, Self-doubt, Positive Mindset, Maximizing Potential, Making Sacrifices, Building Community, Self-improvement More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

What if your ability to lead effectively hinged on a deep understanding of yourself? In this final part of our special 4-part series, I dig deeper into this critical question with CEO of the Year award winner, Kevin Ford of Calian Group. Kevin shares insightful personal anecdotes about how self-awareness has shaped his leadership journey and impacted his organization. We discuss the modern workforce's demand for higher standards in interpersonal interactions and the necessity for leaders to be mindful of their mindset, emotions, and behaviors. Personal and professional growth cannot happen in a feedback vacuum. On the contrary, feedback is the fuel that drives the engine of maximizing our potential. Kevin opens up about the humbling yet enlightening experiences of receiving candid feedback from trusted supervisors and colleagues. We highlight the value of formal feedback processes like 360 reviews and the role of supportive networks in nurturing self-awareness. As we round off the discussion, we explore the transformative potential of AI, including how tools like ChatGPT could revolutionize corporate behavior and decision-making processes. Kevin and I stress the importance of continuous learning and adapting to new technologies as vital elements of effective modern leadership. Join us as we conclude this thought-provoking series about the importance of becoming a Chief Awareness Officer and the secrets to getting there. What You’ll Learn: • Effective Leadership Begins and Ends with Understanding and Managing Our Mindset, Emotions, and Behaviors. • Proactively Seeking Feedback is a Game-Changer for Executive Development. • Beware of the Power of Emotional Contagion. • Fostering A Culture of Feedback. • The Promise of A.I. for Leadership and Organizational Effectiveness. • Where Do We Go From Here? The Future of the Chief Awareness Officer. Podcast Timestamps: (00:00) - The Power of Self-Leadership (10:03) - The Importance of Self-Awareness (15:11) - The Ripple Effects of Self-Awareness (27:50) – Feedback: The Fuel That Drives the Engine of Personal and Professional Growth (32:19) - Creating a Culture of Awareness (37:41) – The Future of A.I. in Organizations and Leadership (47:48) – A Final Word on this Special Series More of Kevin Ford: Kevin is the President and CEO of Calian Group, a solutions company with services in health, IT, systems engineering, and more. Leading the company since 2015, Kevin focuses on teamwork, integrity, and commitment. As you’ll hear in this series of episodes, he’s aware of how he works with others, affects them, and can improve himself. Kevin is also proud to shine a light on how we can improve our leadership by improving ourselves. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-ford-5426948  Key Topics Discussed: CEO Mindset, Chief Awareness Officer, Self-Awareness, Positive Leadership, Receiving Feedback, Emotional Contagion, Feedback Culture, Effective Decision-Making, Organizational Culture, Continuous Learning, Mindset, Emotions, Behaviors, Personal Growth, Professional Growth, 360 Reviews, Mentors, Social Network, Authenticity, Team Dynamics, Curiosity, Information Channels More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

How does an award-winning CEO manage the complexities of leading a rapidly evolving business landscape? Join us for part 3 of this special 4-part series where I speak with Kevin Ford, the dynamic CEO of Calian, as we unpack the multifaceted nature of business awareness. Kevin sheds light on the ever-changing nature of geographical markets and the unique conditions affecting publicly traded companies, stressing how crucial it is for leaders to stay informed amidst a constant influx of data. Transparent and honest communication becomes our next focus, especially during turbulent times. Kevin discusses the significance of creating an environment where information flows freely up and down the hierarchy. He highlights the importance of mental preparedness for unexpected challenges and staying composed and receptive to input during sudden changes. By fostering such a culture, leaders can effectively navigate dynamic situations and build a resilient organizational culture. We then turn our attention to technological disruptions, particularly cybersecurity and A.I. Kevin emphasizes the necessity of relying on subject matter experts to navigate these complex areas while balancing offense and defense in business strategy. He highlights the importance of recognizing knowledge gaps and assembling teams to cover those blind spots.  Wrapping up, we set up our final conversation where we explore the role of mindset, emotions, and behaviors that are foundational for being a successful Chief Awareness Officer. What You’ll Learn: • The Multifaceted Nature of Business Awareness. • Effective Communication in Turbulent Times. • The Vital Role of Mental Preparedness and Composure When Dealing With the Unexpected. • How to Adapt to Technological Changes. • The Secrets to Building a Resilient Team and Culture. • Leveraging Emotional Intelligence to Harness the Power of Experience Podcast Timestamps: (00:00) - Understanding the Business Environment (07:22) – The Necessity of Transparent Communication and Mental Preparedness When Dealing with the Unexpected (18:28) – The Importance of Stepping Back for Moving Forward (24:35) – Navigating Technological Disruptions in Business: A.I. and Cybersecurity (28:33) – Recognizing Your Knowledge Gaps to Address Your Blind Spots More of Kevin Ford: Kevin is the President and CEO of Calian Group, a solutions company with services in health, IT, systems engineering, and more. Leading the company since 2015, Kevin focuses on teamwork, integrity, and commitment. As you’ll hear in this series of episodes, he’s aware of how he works with others, affects them, and can improve himself. Kevin is also proud to shine a light on how we can improve our leadership by improving ourselves. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-ford-5426948  Key Topics Discussed: CEO Mindset, Chief Awareness Officer, Self-Awareness, Positive Leadership, Adaptability, Market Awareness, Proactive Leadership, Publicly Traded Company, Data Influx, Market Conditions, Collective Awareness, Transparent Communication, Turbulent Times, Technological Disruptions, Cybersecurity, Artificial Intelligence, Offense and Defense, Business Strategy, ESG, Climate Change, Governance, Resilience, Mindset, Emotions, Behaviors More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

While we cannot get far without our physical health, it is often overlooked in conversations about leadership excellence, especially when it comes to hard-driving executives. In many circles, it is almost seen as a badge of honor to push ourselves to the brink. However, scientific and anecdotal evidence strongly questions that assumption. Is there a healthier and more effective way? Join me for Part 2 of this engaging 4-part series as we welcome back Kevin Ford, CEO of Calian, to share his compelling journey and insights into the critical role of physical health in leadership. Kevin opens up about his own harrowing experience, shedding light on how neglecting his own personal well-being almost cost him his life. We discuss the often-overlooked importance of incorporating health metrics into leadership evaluations, promoting a culture where self-care is encouraged and valued as much as any other leadership trait. Why aren't leaders asking the right questions about their health? Together with Kevin, we tackle the pressing need for leaders to dig deeper into their genetic history and make informed health decisions. By understanding and managing their physical and mental energy, leaders can better navigate the demands of their roles while fostering a more positive organizational culture. We dive into the significance of self-awareness and the bravery required to admit when one is not performing at their best, physically or mentally. This conversation is packed with actionable advice on how leaders can cultivate a thoughtful and intentional approach to their health and well-being so they can transform their organizations in the process. What You’ll Learn: • Self-Care as a Leadership Strategy. • Proactive Health Management: Understanding Your Genetic History. • How to Cultivate a Culture of Open Communication and Emotional Honesty.  • Why You Need to Monitor Your Energy: A leader's energy and self-awareness significantly impact organizational culture. • Adaptability as a Vital Skill for Leadership Success. Podcast Timestamps: (00:00) – Why is Physical Health So Often Overlooked When it Comes to Leadership Excellence? (09:45) – What are the Right KPIs When It Comes to Our Physical and Mental Health? (13:39) – Energy Management: How You’re Feeling Impacts How You’re Performing (19:53) – Bringing Conversations About Mental Health into the Open (24:13) – Your Company Culture Reflects Your Energy More of Kevin Ford: Kevin is the President and CEO of Calian Group, a solutions company with services in health, IT, systems engineering, and more. Leading the company since 2015, Kevin focuses on teamwork, integrity, and commitment. As you’ll hear in this series of episodes, he’s aware of how he works with others, affects them, and can improve himself. Kevin is also proud to shine a light on how we can improve our leadership by improving ourselves. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-ford-5426948  Key Topics Discussed: CEO Mindset, Chief Awareness Officer, Self-Awareness, Positive Leadership, Physical Health, Mental Health, Well-being, Self-care, Health Metrics, Performance Indicators, Stress, Demanding Roles, Proactive, Preventative Health, Energy Management, Empathy, Open Communication, Emotional Honesty, Human Connection, Company Culture, Adaptability, Hybrid Work Environments, Nurturing More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

A question we routinely ask in this podcast series is “What does it take to be a highly effective leader?” Join me as I deeply explore this question with Kevin Ford, CEO of Calian over a special 4-part series.  In particular, Kevin and I unpack an idea that profoundly resonates with each of us; the Chief Awareness Officer. We both agree that awareness is the most foundational and critical element of leadership excellence, especially when it comes to the Corner Office. In this opening episode, Kevin and I introduce the idea of a Chief Awareness Officer. We also draw on the power of vulnerability and transparency in leadership, as Kevin reflects on his journey through major companies like IBM. Learn how admitting you don't have all the answers can foster a culture of curiosity and collaborative problem-solving, ultimately enhancing collective awareness and informed decision-making. We'll also explore how to harmonize hard metrics with the human elements, like body language and energy, to lead more effectively.  This 4-part series is a must-listen for anyone aiming to cultivate a daily practice of awareness, ensuring your organization remains resilient and successful amidst constant evolution and disruption. What You’ll Learn: • Dive into the concept of a Chief Awareness Officer and why it is so important to executive excellence. • Understand the multifaceted nature of awareness. • Explore the importance of vulnerability and transparency in building awareness as a leader. • Learn how collaborative problem-solving enhances collective awareness. • Discover the critical importance of balancing hard metrics with human elements when it comes to maximizing long-term performance. • Understand the necessity of continuous curiosity and learning for personal and organizational success. Podcast Timestamps: (00:00) – Why the Best CEOs Take on the Role of Chief Awareness Officer (09:50) - The Benefit of Not Having All of the Answers for You and Your Organization (16:34) – The Best KPIs Include the Human Element (21:33) – Looking Ahead for What’s to Come In this Special 4-Part Series More of Kevin Ford: Kevin is the President and CEO of Calian Group, a solutions company with services in health, IT, systems engineering, and more. Leading the company since 2015, Kevin focuses on teamwork, integrity, and commitment. As you’ll hear in this series of episodes, he’s aware of how he works with others, affects them, and can improve himself. Kevin is also proud to shine a light on how we can improve our leadership by improving ourselves. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kevin-ford-5426948  Key Topics Discussed: CEO Mindset, Chief Awareness Officer, Self-Awareness, Positive Leadership, Effective Leadership, Organizational Dynamics, Market Insights, Vulnerability, Transparency, Problem-solving, Learning, Adaptation, Resilience, Organizational Success, Authentic Leadership, Adaptability, Confidence, Resilience, Overcome Obstacles More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/