Do Good To Lead Well with Craig Dowden

Have you ever looked in the mirror and your reflection does not match how others see you in the world? Have you been in situations where your intentions do not match your impact and it negatively affects your success and relationships? In this engaging episode, bestselling authors Scott Osman and Jacquelyn Lane join me to discuss the essence of coachability. They also discuss the personal pathways that led them to embrace coaching for self-improvement.  Our conversation unveils the profound impact that a culture of feedback, gratitude, and continuous improvement can have on leaders and their teams. We start by diving deep into what being coachable means and answer critical questions such as how we can select the best coach for our self-development journey.  We also explore the critical importance of feedback. In particular, Scott and Jacquelyn emphasize how saying thank you is one of the most powerful tools in a leader’s arsenal when it comes to creating a feedback-rich environment. Rather than responding to or challenging the other person’s observation, expressing gratitude is a powerful reinforcing approach to continue receiving the feedback we need to be at our best. The art of receiving feedback becomes a dance, where each step is about maintaining balance between openness and critically reflecting on the insights shared by those around you.  When the rubber hits the road, accountability and intentional change are the vehicles driving leaders towards their goals. Sharing strategies for aligning daily actions with our core values, we look at how setbacks can be repositioned as growth opportunities, and every sunrise offers a new chance at success. Join us as we narrate transformational tales of leadership and the importance of stakeholder-centered coaching. Whether you’re at the helm of an organization or steering your personal career, this episode is filled with guidance on mastering the art of self-leadership through the impactful process of coaching. What You’ll Learn: • Discover the secrets of becoming coachable and finding the right coach • How a culture of feedback combined with a spirit of gratitude can optimize your leadership style. • Uncover the balance between vulnerability and strength that is key to leadership excellence. • Equip yourself with strategies for eliciting constructive feedback and nurturing growth. • Understand the importance of accountability and intentional change in your daily practice. • Understand Backsliding and Progress in Leadership Development • The Concept of Flourishing Leadership Podcast Timestamps: (00:00) - Mastering Self Leadership Through Coaching (11:02) - Choosing the Right Coach (24:38) - Importance of Feedback and Gratitude (32:17) - Accountability and Intentional Change (38:15) - The Path to Flourishing Leadership Key Topics Discussed: Self-leadership, Coachability, Personal Growth, Feedback, Continuous Improvement, Accountability, Intentional Change, Core Values, Leadership Development, Coaching, 360 Assessments, Sustainable Change, Stakeholder-centered Coaching. More of Scott and Jacquelyn: Scott’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottosman/ Jacquelyn’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jacquelyn-lane/ More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Ever felt that rush of release after venting your frustrations, only to be engulfed by the same fiery emotions moments later? Although it may come as a surprise, this episode reveals the double-edged sword that is venting. In fact, your well-intended cathartic release might be doing more harm than good, intensifying feelings of anger and perpetuating a victim mentality. Far from being the pressure valve we often consider it to be, unleashing our grievances often fans the flames of negativity. Venting in the echo chambers of social media can be a high-stakes game, and we dissect the reasons why it’s so risky compared to face-to-face interactions. We’ll guide you through the art of transforming the urge to vent into a strategy for empowerment, with a focus on intentionality and cultivating a mindset of curiosity. Your takeaways will include actionable advice for becoming a better communicator and listener, crucial skills for building stronger relationships and leading with empathy. So join us for an episode that’s not just about venting—it’s about transforming our approach to emotional challenges and becoming the leaders we aspire to be. What You’ll Learn: • The dark side of venting and its effects on our well-being and those around us. • How to turn venting into a process of empowerment. • How to navigate the risks of venting through social media. • How to transition from a victim mentality to a growth and resilience mindset. • Evidence-based tips for how to manage our emotions more effectively. Podcast Timestamps: (00:19) - The Negative Effects of Venting (09:31) - Dangers of Social Media Venting (15:43) - Effective Venting and Listening Dynamics KEYWORDS Venting, Emotional Intelligence, Managing Emotions, Emotional Contagion, Social Media, Empowerment, Reframing, Listening, Mindset, Curiosity, Personal Growth, Resilience, Victim Mentality, Effective Communication. More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

The crackle of a starting pistol and the first determined steps into a marathon might seem worlds apart from executive boardrooms, but my guest, Allison Simpson, bridges that gap with a vigor that's as relentless as her running stride. Across 63 marathons and the vast expanse of the Sahara, Allison has mastered the art of endurance, a skill she translates to her role as President and CEO of the Canadian Marketing Association. Our conversation reveals how the tenacity required for long-distance running mirrors the resilience needed for effective leadership. She shares the accidental beginnings of her marathon journey and how those miles under her feet have shaped her professional approach, offering insights that resonate with anyone looking to push their potential both personally and professionally. Dive into the heart of inclusive leadership where empathy, active listening, and embracing diversity aren't just ideals—they're essential strategies for innovation and success. Celebrating inclusivity isn't just about fairness; it's smart business, with diverse teams often surpassing financial expectations. Finally, for those emerging leaders listening in, we chart a course through the unpredictable waters of career progression, highlighting the value of transparent communication and the courage to step into roles that might feel just beyond your reach. Allison emphasizes that sometimes the most rewarding paths are the ones least expected. Join us for a candid exploration of the skills and attitudes that constitute the bedrock of successful leadership and carry away strategic advice that will empower anyone looking to make their mark. What You’ll Learn: • The symbiosis of personal challenges and professional growth. • How diversity and empathy act as navigational beacons in today's corporate landscape. • The secret sauce to fostering a culture of innovation within your team. • Personal strategies to bolster resilience and maintain a buoyant spirit in the face of adversity. • Practical advice for emerging leaders on making strides in their career, even when the path seems daunting. Podcast Timestamps: (00:00) How Leadership Is Like A Marathon (10:15) Questioning, Reframing, and Positive Feedback (18:29) Embracing Fresh Perspectives for Innovation (28:34) Leveraging the Power of Diversity (38:22) Active Listening and Building Resilience (47:33) Charting Your Career Path: The Power of Flexibility Key Topics Discussed: Positive Leadership, Endurance, Resilience, Diversity, Empathy, Clear Communication, Career Progression, Inclusivity, Innovation, Personal Growth, Professional Growth, Curiosity, Active Listening, Problem-Solving, Decision-Making, Transparency, Values, Creativity, Productivity, Self-Discovery, Risk-Taking, CEO Success More of Alison: Alison is the president and CEO of the Canadian Marketing Association (CMA). Throughout her career, she's held executive marketing roles and served as president of several marketing agencies. Having worked for and with top tier brands, including Holt Renfrew, Rogers Communications, and TMX Group, Alison is a high achiever with plenty of experiences and insights. Prior to joining the CMA, Allison was Chief Marketing Officer and Head of Consumer Business at Key, an innovative, Technology company that has developed the world's first all digital on demand home ownership platform to make home ownership a reality for many. She's a director on several boards, both not for profit and publicly traded. She also serves on the advisory board for the Master of Management Analytics and Artificial Intelligence program at the Smith School of Business. And, of course, she’s highly successful in her time away from work, having run 63 marathons! LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alisonksimpson/  More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Could leadership rooted in empathy be the game-changer in today’s diverse, multi-generational workplaces? In this timely episode, I welcome the remarkable father-daughter team, James and Krista White, to explore the pressing topic of anti-racist leadership. In this enlightening discussion, the Whites share the powerful synergy behind their book, a fusion of CEO-level wisdom with a millennial’s fresh take on diversity, equity, and inclusion. The episode highlights how the journey towards a truly inclusive corporate culture involves confronting common pitfalls and embracing Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion as non-negotiable elements that power a company’s heart and soul. James and Krista dissect the unfortunate tendency of sidelining DEI during tough times and advocate for hiring practices that celebrate cultural enhancement rather than mere fit. Our discussion brings to light how a strong DEI focus not only enriches company culture but also fosters innovation and retention, which are integral elements to any organization’s success. As we wrap up this rich dialogue, we examine the strategic roles that Chief Diversity Officers and middle managers play in shaping and maintaining a diverse environment. What You’ll Learn: • The inspiration behind James and Krista’s timely book • Concrete strategies for cultivating empathy among leaders • The influence of Gen Z on the corporate landscape • Sustainable DEI practices • Truly embracing the power of Chief Diversity Officers • How middle managers can become catalysts for change Podcast Timestamps: (00:00) – An Introduction to Anti-Racist Leadership (11:06) – Empathy: An Essential Building Block for Inclusive Cultures (22:53) – Sustainable DEI Practices, Including Hiring for Cultural Enhancement, Not Fit (33:47) – Why Chief Diversity Officers and Middle Managers Are Integral to Long-Term (DEI) Success (48:31) – Call for Engagement: Be the Change We Wish to See in the World Key Topics Discussed: Anti-Racist Leadership, Empathy, Inclusive Workplaces, Gen Z, Corporate Culture, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, DEI, Hiring Practices, Cultural Enhancement, Chief Diversity Officers, Middle Managers, Sustainable Practices, Human Capital, Engagement, Community Interaction, Transformation, Inspiration

Ever wondered how the greats of our time catapult themselves to the top of their fields? That's the burning question we tackle with the brilliant minds behind the recently released book, "Learned Excellence." Authors Eric Potterat (PhD) and Alan Eagle shed light on the idea that peak performance isn't solely a gift of nature, but a skill that can be learned and developed. Using a hardware-software metaphor, they highlight how our software is vitally important to truly maximize our potential. During our engaging conversation, the authors illustrate how the world's elite performers consistently align their actions with their core values. As we delve deeper into the idea, you're invited to create your personal values credo, and how such clarity can streamline your decision-making, augment your performance, and serve as a beacon through life's tumultuous journey.  We also delve into the science and practice of effective goal-setting. Goals are an essential aspect of achieving excellence, as they provide clear direction, keeping us focused and motivated. They act as a roadmap to our destination, enabling us to measure our progress and adjust our strategies accordingly. This way, we can effectively manage our time and resources, and significantly enhance our chances of success. In our final leg of the episode, we turn the spotlight to the concept of mental toughness, as our guests highlight the transformative potential of embracing failures and nurturing incremental personal growth. They share how to use evidence-informed strategies, from visualization to stress management techniques, which are vital for building resilience. Compelling vignettes of high performers teach us that mental toughness is not just about weathering the storm but thriving within it, guiding listeners on how to achieve a harmonious balance across the spectrum of life's endeavors. Join us for this riveting exchange that promises to equip you with the tools to chase excellence in your own life’s journey. What You’ll Learn: • Debunking the myth that peak performance is born, not made. • The power of a personal values credo. • How to balance life’s pillars to foster resilience and build a meaningful legacy. • The science of effective goal setting. • Embracing a growth mindset to transform setbacks into success. • Practical techniques for cultivating mental toughness. Podcast Timestamps: (00:00) - Writing the Book on Peak Performance (05:16) – Success Is All About the Quality of Your Software (12:25) – Peak Performance Springs From Our Values (18:22) – The Science and Practice of Goal Setting (27:53) – Embracing a Growth Mindset (40:01) - Mental Toughness and its Role in Achieving Excellence Key Topics Discussed: Performance, Peak Performance, Learned Excellence, Identity, Values, Skill Enhancement, Authentic Decision-Making, Goal Setting, SMART Goals, Resilience, Legacy, Growth Mindset, Mental Toughness, Stress Management, Adversity Tolerance, Life in Balance, Personal Growth More of Eric and Alan: Eric’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/eric-g-potterat-ph-d-49ab6b93 Alan’s LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alaneagle/ Mentions: Trillion Dollar Coach, Learned Excellence More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Unlock the transformative power of “Trust & Inspire” leadership with insights from New York Times bestselling author and global thought leader Stephen M. R. Covey. In the latest episode of the Do Good to Lead Well podcast, we explore the seismic shift from the conventional command-and-control approach to one that empowers and elevates your team to new heights. With Covey's storied experience and unbridled passion for positive leadership, we dissect the critical need for leaders to embrace a leadership paradigm rooted in trust and inspiration and the profound impact it can have on an organization's potential. Throughout our conversation, we challenge the status quo, advocating for a balance between managing things with efficiency and leading people with effectiveness. We reveal how mastering the 'genius of the and' can create environments brimming with purpose, caring, and belonging. By fostering a trust-and-inspire culture, we discuss practical advice on nurturing a vibrant leadership style that resonates even in the complexities of hybrid work environments and remote team management. Closing our discussion, we underscore the pivotal role of trust in empowering teams, particularly in remote work contexts. Covey imparts practical strategies for fostering a high-trust culture where clarity of expectations and accountability reign supreme. We explore how Microsoft's renaissance under Satya Nadella exemplifies the remarkable impact of trust and inspiration in leadership. Finally, we challenge you to step into 2024 with a renewed commitment to trust and inspire leadership. What You’ll Learn: • Why we need to transition from traditional "command-and-control" to “trust and inspire” leadership. • The distinction between managing things and leading people. • How the 'genius of the and' is crucial for creating purpose-driven environments. • How trust and inspire leadership turned around Microsoft. • Why being trustworthy is not enough to build trusting relationships. • Strategies for fostering trust and inspiring leadership in remote team management. Key Timestamps: (00:00) – An Introduction to Trust & Inspire Leadership (05:37) – Enlightened Command and Control is Not Enough (14:56) – “Manage Things, Lead People” (29:12) - Trust and Inspire Leadership In A Hybrid World (35:10) - Build Collaborative Agreements to Unlock Peak Performance and Engagement (44:27) – Lessons in Trust and Inspire Leadership from Satya Nadella – CEO of Microsoft (54:22) – The Secret to Changing Your World - Go First! More of Stephen? Stephen M. R. Covey is a renowned author, best known for his New York Times and number one Wall Street Journal bestseller, "The Speed of Trust." As the former CEO of Covey Leadership Center, he played a pivotal role in transforming the organization into the world's largest leadership development company. Under his leadership, the company expanded its reach to over 40 countries and significantly increased its brand value. Stephen's influence extends beyond his own works, as he personally led the strategic efforts that propelled his father's book, Dr. Stephen R. Covey's "The Seven Habits of Highly Effective People," to become one of the two most influential business books of the 20th century. During his tenure as president and CEO, he nearly doubled revenue and increased profits by 12 times, taking the company from a valuation of 2.4 million to an impressive 160 million through a successful merger with FranklinQuest, forming FranklinCovey. His impact on leadership development and the success of the Covey brand are testament to his exceptional leadership and strategic vision. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stephen-m-r-covey-6400191a5/ Key Topics Discussed: Positive Leadership, Trust, Inspiration, Stephen M. Covey, Command and Control, Empowerment, Team Management, Hybrid Work Environments, Progressive Leadership, Maximizing Potential, Purpose, Caring, Belonging, Remote Work, Organizational Culture Mentions: The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People: Powerful Lessons in Personal Change by Stephen R. Covey https://www.amazon.ca/Habits-Highly-Effective-People-Powerful/dp/0743269519  Do Good To Lead Well: The Science And Practice Of Positive Leadership by Craig Dowden https://www.amazon.ca/Do-Good-Lead-Well-Leadership/dp/194663302X/ More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Gaslighting was the word of the year in 2022. It is referenced often and shows up in our personal and professional lives. To start off the New Year, I decided to share my personal and difficult journey with gaslighting in a relationship that was very important to me. My hope in sharing my experience is to unpack the critical moments, emotions, and insights that emerged. Key Takeaways: 1. The history of the relationship and some of the ongoing challenges and consequences, including disengagement and disillusionment. 2. A critical inflection point where I decided to interrupt the gaslighting tango and insert more of myself and my values into the conversation. 3. My commitment to approaching the conversation and the other person with non-reactivity and curiosity. 4. How the conversation unfolded with that approach and the key things I learned. 5. Why approaching challenging and dysfunctional relationships through the lens of our core values is critical for honoring ourselves. 6. While our core values are essential navigational tools for our journey in leadership and in life, they profoundly affect the relationships we maintain and those we let go.  More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Have you ever considered that showing yourself kindness could be the key to overcoming life's hurdles? This week, I had the privilege of welcoming Dr. Kristin Neff, a trailblazer in the field of self-compassion research, and together we embarked on a conversation that promises to alter the way you confront personal and professional challenges. Through Dr. Neff's compelling personal narrative, we unearth the transformative power of self-compassion, demonstrating how it can shift our typical self-critical responses to a nurturing and supportive mindset. During this insightful conversation, Dr. Neff and I tackle the myths surrounding self-compassion, shedding light on how it distinguishes from self-pity and actually promotes a heightened sense of shared humanity and resilience, particularly within the high-pressure realm of leadership. We unpack how incorporating self-compassion can reduce burnout, enhance performance, and redirect one's inner critic to become a source of encouragement, akin to a coach championing their team. As we wrap up our conversation, Dr. Neff offers tangible strategies for applying self-compassion to navigate the stormy seas of negative emotions. We delve into the simple yet profound effects of physical gestures of self-kindness and the power of addressing ourselves with the same compassion we'd extend to a dear friend. By embracing these practices, listeners will find encouragement to foster personal growth, align with their core values, and approach life's adversities with a balanced mix of courage and tenderness. What You’ll Learn: • The essential differences between self-compassion, self-esteem, and self-pity. • Intriguing research findings on how self-compassion can combat workplace burnout and bolster resilience. • How self-compassion allows you to take more, not less, responsibility and grow. • The role of self-talk and journaling in reinforcing your self-compassion. • Practical strategies for managing negative emotions with grace and self-understanding. Podcast Timestamps: (00:00) – An Introduction to Self-Compassion (10:11) – The Benefits of Self-Compassion (17:00) - Misconceptions About Self-Compassion (30:12) - The Power of Acceptance (38:45) - The Crucial Role of Self-Compassion in Aligning with Our Core Values (44:27) - Self-Compassion in Dealing With Negative Emotions Key Topics Discussed: Self-Compassion, Mindfulness, Personal Growth, Positive Leadership, Self-Leadership, Burnout, Resilience, Negative Emotions, Authenticity, Values, Emotional Well-Being, Mastering Emotions, Journaling, Managing Your Inner Critic, Forgiveness, Emotional Healing, Emotional Intelligence More of Kristin: Kristin Neff is currently an Associate Professor of Educational Psychology at the University of Texas at Austin, and is a pioneer in the field of self-compassion research. She conducted the first empirical studies on self-compassion more than 20 years ago, and her extraordinary career in this space has led her to publish books and articles, and share her practices with the world through the Center for Mindful Self-Compassion. Dr. Neff has been recognized as one of the most influential researchers in psychology worldwide. She is the author of the best selling book, Self-Compassion. And her latest book is Fierce Self Compassion, How Women Can Harness Kindness to Speak Up, Claim Their Power, and Thrive. Along with her colleague Chris Germer, she has developed the empirically supported Mindful Self Compassion program and founded the Center for Mindful Self Compassion. Recently, they co-wrote the best selling book, The Mindful Self-Compassion Workbook: A Proven Way to Accept Yourself, Build Inner Strength, and Thrive.  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristinneff/  Website: https://self-compassion.org/  More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

What role does love play in business? How can I create an environment where I hire people for life? In this episode, Jan Ryde answers these questions and more. What You’ll Learn: 1. Why you should have an abundance mindset. 2. How it all starts with loving and appreciating yourself. 3. How we create our reality through our thoughts and feelings. 4. Why you should let yourself live with childlike excitement and belief. 5. How humility will lead you to success. 6. Why you should ask, “What makes you so awesome?” 7. How to think in a way that optimizes for everyone. Who is Jan? Jan Ryde, the CEO of Hästens, is a fifth generation family member leading this powerhouse bed manufacturer - which has been around since 1852. Regardless of their ultimate role in the company, every employee begins as an apprentice, and Jan is no different, learning and contributing to each step in the process of hand making a Heston's bed. Jan is honored not only that his sons Lucas and David have joined the family business, but that multiple generations of other families continue to spend their careers at Heston's, dedicated to improving people's lives by helping them sleep beautifully. Jan’s book, When Business is Love: The Spirit of Hästens―At Work, At Play, and Everywhere in Your Life, comes after he grew his family’s over 170 year old business more than 50,000 percent. In the book, Jan shares his darkest moments, biggest challenges, and his most beautiful philosophies around life, love, and business. Mentions: When Business is Love: The Spirit of Hästens―At Work, At Play, and Everywhere in Your Life by Jan Ryde https://www.amazon.ca/When-Business-Love-H%C3%A4stens_At-Everywhere/dp/1637631979  Follow Jan: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jan-ryde-a6a10a1/  More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

How can I be vulnerable, and still be a strong leader? How can I analyze the biases within myself and my organization? In this episode, Kathryn Tremblay answers these questions and more. What You’ll Learn: 1. How to value everyone involved in your organization. 2. How resiliency is really just putting one foot in front of the other. 3. Why we must learn to be accountable for our strengths and our weaknesses. 4. How saying “I don’t know” and being curious will change your leadership. 5. How gratitude for the little things will give you space for optimism. 6. How diversity and inclusion change Kathryn’s life. 7. How vulnerability is about being a transparent and authentic self. 8. How to turn uncertainty and anxiety into excitement for unknown opportunities. Who is Kathryn? Kathryn Tremblay is a Canadian entrepreneur and business leader with over 30 years of experience specializing in the human aspect of human resources. As CEO and co-founder of Altis Recruitment and Technology, Kathryn has steadily grown her organization into one of Canada's largest privately held recruitment and staffing firms. Born and raised in Ottawa, Kathryn’s entrepreneurial journey began there in 1989 When she launched a small staffing firm with her co-founder and late husband. Growing the company organically, they expanded into the GTA and Vancouver. As a remote by choice employer, over 200 team members across Canada work to place more than 8, 500 talented candidates in meaningful roles each year. Kathryn was named the 2021 CEO of the Year by the Ottawa Business Journal and the Ottawa Board of Trade and has been recognized, every year since 2006, for running one of Canada's best managed companies. Follow Kathryn: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kathryn-tremblay/  More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/