Do Good To Lead Well with Craig Dowden

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/

Today is a very special day in the Do Good to Lead Well universe! The podcast officially turns 100. It is hard to imagine how far we have traveled together in a very short time. It is impossible to do justice to the amazing conversations we have shared together. To mark this very special occasion, I curated some of the most inspiring and thought-provoking insights shared by the CEOs, bestselling authors, and TED speakers I have spoken with over the past 2 years. I picked the clips that attendees most commented on during or after the live broadcast. My goal on putting this episode together was to provide a masterclass on self-leadership. After sharing these powerful clips, I’ll provide my commentary, linking the threads together and connecting them with past guests. At the close of the episode, the tables are turned as Alan Mulally, the former CEO of Ford Motor Company and my collaborator on my latest book, asks me a question or two. I hope you enjoy this extended episode as much as I did putting it together. What You’ll Learn: • Why we need to manage things and lead people. • How radical respect is the foundation of leadership effectiveness. • Why the best leaders focus on continuous improvement. • How to better manage our egos • Delegation allows us to scale ourselves as leaders and uplevel our team members. • Ways to create an inclusive environment. • How to maximize personal accountability • Navigating conflict and leading with courage • Building resilience  • Mastering authentic leadership Podcast Timestamps: (00:00) - A Heartfelt Thank You (07:11) - Manage Things, Lead People with Stephen M.R. Covey (Bestselling Author of Trust & Inspire and The Speed of Trust) (13:27) - Radical Respect: A Foundation for Positive Leadership with Kim Scott (Bestselling Author of Radical Respect and Radical Candor) (17:27) - What Do I Need to Do to Be Better? With Dr. Lisa Calder (CEO, Canadian Medical Protective Association) (22:21) - Humility Is The New Smart with Ed Hess (Bestselling Author + Professor Emeritus, Darden) (27:01) - Unleashing the Power of Your Team with Sue Hutchison (President and CEO of Equifax Canada) (31:45) - The Power of Curiosity and Asking Questions with Tracey Black (Former CEO of Payments Canada) (35:38) - Give Things Away to Scale Yourself with Adam Bryant (Bestselling Author of The Leap to Leader and The Corner Office) (40:35) - Truly Creating an Inclusive Environment with Sally Helegesen (Bestselling Author of Rising Together and How Women Rise) (44:54) - How to Leverage the Upsides of Conflict with Matt Abrahams (Bestselling author of Think Faster, Talk Smarter) (51:32) - Leading with Courage with Doug Conant (Bestselling Author of The Blue Print + former CEO of Campbell Soup Company) (57:22) - The Maniac Pledge: A Mantra for Personal Accountability with Garry Ridge (Bestselling author + former Chairman and CEO WD-40 Company) (1:02:57) - Self-Compassion: An Underdeveloped leadership and life skill with Kristin Neff (Bestselling author and pioneering researcher) (1:08:35) - What Is Authentic Leadership? with Alan Mulally (Former CEO of Ford Motor Company) Key Topics Discussed: Positive Leadership, Managing Emotions, Emotional Intelligence, Mindset, Humility, Learning Moments, Asking Questions, Seeking Feedback, Resilience, Empathy, Accountability, Inclusivity, Delegation, Coaching, Curiosity, Active Listening, Leading with Courage, Vulnerability, Values, Productivity, Self-Discovery, Self-Leadership, CEO Success More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Do you think that asking for help is a leadership superpower? Join us as we sit down with Justine Hendricks, President and CEO of FCC, to answer this thought-provoking question and many others over the course of our discussion. We start by examining the importance of curiosity, particularly for CEOs who must navigate complex crises and uncharted territories. Justine shares her thoughts on maintaining an open mind and understanding different perspectives before jumping to solutions. Additionally, we discuss the critical role of communication and accessibility in leadership, emphasizing how these qualities help leaders adapt to today's dynamic environment. Justine takes us through the evolving workplace culture, emphasizing how humility and the willingness to ask for help have become essential strengths. Reflecting on significant events like George Floyd, she illustrates the profound impact of observation and reflection in addressing the root causes of crises. We delve into the emotional aspects of organizational transformation, highlighting how clear communication and linking changes to the company’s mission can build trust and resilience among employees. Finally, we explore the critical roles of authenticity and active listening in leadership. Justine shares her thoughts on the importance of balancing being true to oneself with maintaining awareness of the surrounding environment. We stress the importance of setting boundaries, celebrating small wins, and prioritizing well-being to cultivate a supportive and sustainable leadership approach. This episode offers a rich tapestry of insights, personal anecdotes, and actionable advice for anyone looking to enhance their leadership journey. What You’ll Learn: • The indispensable role of curiosity in CEO success • Embracing vulnerability and the strength in asking for help • Managing the emotional landscape of organizational transformation • Authenticity as a cornerstone of genuine human connection • The underestimated power of active listening • Prioritizing well-being for sustained leadership effectiveness Podcast Timestamps: (00:00) – What Are the Essential Leadership Qualities? (13:10) - The Power of Asking for Help (21:43) - Navigating Transformation and Challenge (34:20) - The Role of Authenticity in Strong Leadership (39:55) – The Importance of Active Listening in Leadership Excellence (46:23) - Prioritizing Well-Being in Leadership More of Justine: Justine Hendricks is the President and CEO of FCC, a Canadian federal crown corporation which offers financing, insurance, software, and more to Canada’s agriculture industry. With previous experience at RBC and Export Development Canada, Kristine has a wealth of knowledge to offer when it comes to building, leading, and empowering successful teams in business. She's a member of the University of Ottawa Board of Governors and currently sits on their Audit Committee. She earned an MBA from the University of Ottawa and a bachelor's degree from Carleton University. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/justine-hendricks-ab82664/ Key Topics Discussed: Leadership, Effective Leadership, Curiosity, Open-mindedness, Communication, Navigating Uncertainty, Crisis Management, Workplace Culture, Humility, Vulnerability, Asking for Help, Human Connection, Organizational Transformation, Authenticity, Active Listening, Well-being, Setting Boundaries, CEO Success More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

What if the secret to successful leadership lies not in expertise but in empathy and purpose? Join us as we sit down with Dr. Lisa Calder, CEO of the Canadian Medical Protective Association, to uncover what it truly takes to lead with impact in today's fast-paced world. Dr. Calder, who brings a wealth of experience from her background as an emergency physician, shares her unique insights on synthesizing dynamic information and leveraging generalist skills to build and optimize expert teams, all while managing ego and understanding one's purpose. Explore the essence of intentional reflection in elevating your leadership practice. Dr. Calder shares practical strategies like the "five whys," mind mapping, and the use of a color-coded calendar to align professional and personal goals. These tools and strategies offer a roadmap for maintaining balance and focus in a demanding environment. Dr. Calder shares her personal wellness journey, emphasizing the importance of intentional energy management, authenticity, and vulnerability. We discuss how these qualities foster a supportive organizational culture and normalize mental health, setting clear boundaries for disconnecting from work. By role modeling healthy behaviors and embedding wellness practices into daily routines, leaders can significantly enhance both personal and organizational well-being. Tune in to discover actionable strategies for leading with empathy and resilience. What You’ll Learn: • Don’t aim to be the smartest person in the room: Be the best leader in the room • The value of generalist skills for 21st-century leadership • Manage our egos to manage our success • Why you need to know where you spend your time • The keys to effectively managing your energy • The parallels between sports leadership and building a peak performance company • How to instill EDI into the fabric of your organization Podcast Timestamps: (00:00) Keys to Successful Leadership (09:56) The Power of Reflection and Time Management for Leaders (22:37) Why the Best Leaders Care About Empathy (29:54) Fostering Resilience in Organizations (35:53) Promoting Wellness and Well-Being (41:02) Authenticity and Vulnerability: A Dynamic Duo for Leadership Excellence (47:15) EDI and the Need to Focus on Continuous Improvement More of Lisa: Dr. Lisa Calder is a distinguished healthcare leader, emergency physician, and researcher with a demonstrated history of working in hospital and healthcare settings. She excels in leveraging analytics to drive data-informed improvements in clinical care, with expertise in clinical research, patient safety, quality improvement, and medico-legal data analysis. As a collaborator, innovator, and team builder, Dr. Calder works across various departments within the CMPA and with healthcare stakeholders to enhance care safety through research. She is renowned for her dynamic teaching and presenting style, having received numerous awards for her contributions. Dr. Calder has published over 80 research papers, significantly advancing the CMPA's research profile in patient safety, obstetrical care, surgical care, and risk management. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-calder-8aa9b441/ Key Topics Discussed: Empathy, Purpose, Canadian Medical Protective Association, Managing Expert Teams, Managing our Ego, Effective Time Management, Reflection, Intentional Leadership, Coaching, Mind Mapping, Maintaining Balance, Focus, Emotional Intelligence, Wellness, Vulnerability, Mental Health, Energy Management, Authenticity, Organizational Culture, Meditation, Self-Awareness, Energy-Draining Activities, Mental Health Stigma, Boundaries, Role Modeling, Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, Continuous Improvement, CEO Success More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Is the traditional office becoming a thing of the past? In this episode, we sit down with Nick Bloom, Stanford professor and LinkedIn’s Top Voice on Remote Work, to uncover the transformative shifts in our work models that accelerated throughout the pandemic. With two decades of research behind him, Nick provides an in-depth look at how technology has revolutionized remote and hybrid work environments. We explore the rising popularity of hybrid work models, the slowdown of the return-to-office movement, and practical advice for executives and managers navigating this new terrain. Discover how different organizations are uniquely adapting to remote work, from consulting firms to call centers. Nick shares valuable insights on how to balance flexibility with performance and the profound benefits of remote work. We dive into the importance of tailored approaches based on job nature and organizational needs, offering crucial recommendations for both startups and larger companies who are embracing or considering hybrid models. Furthermore, we discuss the challenges of managing hybrid and fully remote teams, and the impact of these models on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. We close out the episode discussing mental health, employee retention, and the economic reshaping due to the "donut effect.” Join us for an enlightening conversation and stay ahead of the curve in the evolving landscape of the future world. What You’ll Learn: • The balance between flexibility and performance • How to tailor hybrid work for various roles and organizations • The benefits of remote work that equate to an 8% pay raise • Strategies for integrating successful remote work practices into your organization • The crucial role of choice and flexibility for mental health • Solving the mystery of remote onboarding • The ongoing shifts in workforce dynamics and hiring practices   Podcast Timestamps: (00:03) - Leading Remote and Hybrid Teams (10:29) - The Future of Hybrid Work Arrangements (17:04) - Remote Work Benefits and Considerations (20:28) - Strategies for Remote Work Integration (33:06) - Remote Work – Impacts on DEI and Productivity (43:40) - Mental Health and Remote Onboarding (52:00) – The Future of (Remote) Work More of Nick: Nick Bloom is a professor in the Department of Economics and, by courtesy, at the Stanford Graduate School of Business. He co-directs the Productivity, Innovation and Entrepreneurship program at the National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER) and is a fellow at both the Centre for Economic Performance and the Stanford Institute for Economic Policy Research. Bloom's research focuses on management practices, working with McKinsey & Company and Accenture to gather extensive data and conduct management experiments, and he has extensively studied the impacts of large uncertainty shocks on the U.S. economy. He lives on the Stanford campus with his wife and three children, maintaining a multi-lingual household influenced by his London roots and his Scottish wife. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-bloom-86b79510b/ Key Topics Discussed: Remote Work, Hybrid Work, Nick Bloom, Future of Work, Technology Advancements, Managing Work,  Job Satisfaction, Employee Retention, Inclusion, Mental Health, Onboarding, Hiring Practices, Work Dynamics, Productivity, Flexibility, Connectivity More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Have you ever started down a conversational pathway and wish you could turn around and exit stage right? Despite our good intentions, we can find ourselves knee-deep in a complex and challenging situation. Our ‘Speak-First, Think-Later’ culture amplifies the potential risk. Join me in this month’s solo episode as I unveil a simple yet powerful three-step process, borrowed from an unlikely source—the comedian Craig Ferguson. We probe the depths of when to speak, what to share, and who should deliver the message, turning your communication into a deliberate and effective tool. Discover how asking ourselves these critical questions before speaking can steer us away from potential conversational pitfalls and guide us toward more meaningful interactions. What You’ll Learn: • A 3-step reflection process to guide if and how you contribute to crucial conversations • The importance of asking why you are sharing this message • The role of timing in effective communication • Being strategic about the messenger Podcast Timestamps: (00:00) Introduction (01:55) The Importance of Effective Communication (02:22) Introducing Craig Ferguson's Three-Step Process (03:25) Question 1: Does This Need to Be Said? (05:52) Question 2: Does This Need to Be Said by Me? (09:02) Question 3: Does This Need to Be Said by Me Now? (10:30) Applying the Three-Step Process in Real Life (14:16) Conclusion Key Topics Discussed: Meaningful Connection, Communication, Open-ended Questions, Self-reflection, Managing Relationships, Navigating Conflict, Emotional Intelligence, Craig Ferguson, Timing, Effective Communication, Actionable Tips, Personal Development More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Welcome back to the Do Good to Lead Well podcast, where the art and science of communication takes center stage. Join us as we engage with Stanford professor and communication maestro, Matt Abrahams, discussing the secrets unveiled in his best-selling book "Think Faster, Talk Smarter." From the power of open-ended questions to the finesse required for a graceful exit from a conversation, we cover it all and ensure that you walk away with skills that transcend the ordinary, transforming every interaction into a moment of engaging connection. Through a combination of science, neuroscience and applied practice, Matt brings a wealth of knowledge that will sharpen your ability to communicate. This episode isn't just about mastering the high-stakes world of spontaneous dialogue; it's about the nuances of everyday interactions. Listen in as we explore the underestimated skill of small talk, revealing how to navigate social exchanges with confidence and purpose. Discover the importance of asking open-ended questions, learn the art of exiting conversations without awkwardness, and appreciate the power of listening—skills that transform small talk from a dreaded chore into an opportunity for meaningful connections. Whether you're remote or face-to-face, we've got tips to help you communicate more effectively and engage listeners with greater equity and impact. Finally, we dive into the soft skills that often go unnoticed but can significantly influence our interactions. Unpack the strengths of introversion and how humor and cultural understanding play pivotal roles in effective communication. We also examine the evolving landscape of digital communication, including the strategic use of emojis and the importance of feedback in building a culture of open dialogue.  This episode promises to equip you with the tools necessary for becoming a more empathetic and impactful communicator in your personal and professional lives. Tune in, subscribe, and join us on this transformative journey to elevate your communication prowess. What You’ll Learn: • How to Conquer the Fear of Impromptu Speaking • The Strategic Art of Small Talk • Hybrid Communication: Best Practices • The Strengths of Introverts for Effective Communication • Navigating Cultural Nuances • Using Humor to Create Connection • Why Empathy is the Key Ingredient to Navigate Conflict • The Perils and Promise of Emojis • Effective Feedback Techniques • Improving Our Communication Is A Lifelong Journey Podcast Timestamps: (00:00) – The Power and Promise of Effective Communication (10:33) - Mastering Small Talk and Impromptu Communication (17:40) – Equity and Engagement in Communication (23:24) - Leveraging Lessons from Introversion, Humor, and Cultural Awareness to Elevate Your Impact (31:55) – Communication Secrets for Navigating Conflict (45:21) - Effective Use of Emojis and Feedback to Enhance Connection Key Topics Discussed: Communication Skills, Small Talk, Hybrid Communication, Humor, Conflict Management, Emojis, Feedback, Virtual Communication, Managing Anxiety, Public Speaking, Active Listening, Empathy, Radical Candor, Improvisation More of Matt Abrahams: Matt Abrahams is a renowned expert in communication, celebrated for his dynamic roles as a Stanford University lecturer, author, and podcast host. He teaches strategic communication at Stanford's Graduate School of Business, where he received the prestigious Alumni Teaching Award. As a sought-after keynote speaker and communication consultant, Matt has coached presenters for high-stakes events such as IPO roadshows, TED Talks, and World Economic Forum presentations. He hosts the award-winning podcast "Think Fast, Talk Smart" and has authored books like "Think Faster, Talk Smarter" and "Speaking Up without Freaking Out," which offer practical strategies for confident and effective communication. Website: https://mattabrahams.com/ More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/