Do Good To Lead Well with Craig Dowden

Paula Davis, a bestselling author and workplace stress expert, unveils the secrets to thriving in high-pressure environments. Her journey from the courtroom to applied positive psychology brings unique insights into fostering resilience and well-being at work. Paula's latest book, "Lead Well: Five Mindsets to Engage, Retain and Inspire Your Team," serves as a toolkit for leaders striving to combat stress and disengagement.We explore the delicate balance between workplace wellness and overall well-being, dissecting how leadership and team dynamics hold sway over employees' happiness, stress levels, and purpose. It's not just about offering yoga classes or healthy lunches; it's about cultivating an environment where growth and resilience can flourish.By challenging teams with opportunities for mastery, leaders can ignite a spark of ongoing learning and professional development. Paula shares practical strategies for fostering this growth, encouraging leaders to align personal and professional aspirations with team goals.Building intentional relationships takes the spotlight as we discuss methods to cultivate a sense of community within teams. From "Seinfeld meetings"—those unstructured, agenda-free gatherings—to shared meals that bring teams closer together, we emphasize the importance of trust and rapport. This episode is filled with actionable insights for leaders to inspire their teams and create a thriving workplace culture.What You’ll Learn- Discover the innovative concept of "sticky recognition" andhow it can transform team motivation.- Understand the delicate balance between workplace wellness and overall well-being.- Learn how leaders can challenge teams for growth and resilience through focusing on mastery.- Explore methods to build intentional relationships and cultivate a sense of community within teams.- The importance of mental agility in today's AI-driven world.Podcast Timestamps(00:00) – An Introduction to the 5 Mindsets(08:31) – The Science and Practice of Employee Recognition(17:18) – Wellness Versus Well-Being? Where Organizations Can Miss the Mark(25:10) – Leadership Lessons from Seinfeld (28:58) – The ABCs of a Culture of Flourishing(33:08) – The Importance of Leadership Buy-In(48:26) – Managing Stress and Enhancing Mental AgilityKEYWORDSPositive Leadership, Workplace Stress, Resilience, Well-being, Team Dynamics, Burnout, Positive Psychology, Employee Recognition, Increasing Motivation, Team Engagement, Organizational Culture, EstablishingCommunity, Mental Agility, Human-Centered Skills, CEO Success

Jeff Wetzler, co-CEO of Transcend and former Chief Learning Officer at Teach for America, shares his insights on harnessing the power of inquiry to unlock human potential. He emphasizes how effective questioning fosters collaboration and innovation within teams. Wetzler discusses strategies for creating psychological safety, encouraging open dialogue, and exploring unspoken communication. The conversation highlights the role of curiosity in leadership and the transformative effects of open-ended questions, offering practical tips for cultivating a culture of inquiry.

In my latest solo episode for the Do Good to Lead Well podcast, and inspired by my own vacation, I explore the transformative power of taking time off. Evidence tells us that vacations provide us with numerous benefits, including igniting our creativity, enhancing your job performance, and even lowering the risk of heart problems. We'll also discuss why so many of us, despite knowing these benefits, let our vacation days go unused, contributing to stress and burnout.We’ll tackle the mental barriers that hold us back from enjoying well-deserved breaks and challenge the myths around ambition and indispensability. Reflect on your own beliefs about taking time off and learn practical strategies to overcome these hurdles. From effective delegation to embracing the natural fear of disconnecting, I’ll offer actionable advice on maximizing your vacation. By fullyembracing your time away, you can return to work not only recharged but with a fresh perspective to excel. Prioritize your well-being and professional growth by making vacations an integral part of your life strategy.What You’ll Learn- How taking small breaks can supercharge creativity.- Rest provides rocket fuel for your job performance.- Secrets to overcoming mental barriers related to taking vacation.- Strategies to unlock the full benefits of a vacation.- The importance of prioritizing rest for personal and professional growth.Podcast Timestamps(00:00) – The Science Behind the Importance of Taking Vacations(07:42) – Not All Vacations Are Created Equal – How to Maximize the Benefits of Your VacationKEYWORDSVacation, Rejuvenating, Managing the Fear of Disconnecting, Enhancing Well-being, Avoiding Burnout, Mental Blocks, Self-limiting Beliefs, Effective Delegation, The Power of disconnecting, Take Your Holidays, CEO Success

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/