Do Good To Lead Well with Craig Dowden

How can a positive leadership and company culture lead to massive success? How can this culture be spread throughout all offices in a company? In this episode, Roheel Ahmad answers these questions and more. What You’ll Learn: 1. Why Roheel gave his employees a 10% raise, across the board. 2. When your people do well, the business will do well. 3. How experiences can mean more than earnings. 4. How to be close with employees, but have high expectations. 5. How to make sure your positive company culture exists in all your offices. 6. Why good managing means serving your employees. 7. How job offers should be more like marriage proposals. Who is Roheel? Roheel Ahmad is Co-founder and Managing Partner of Forsyth Barnes, which over the past 8 years has grown to over 100 million pounds in revenue! Taking his company international, Roheel has opened an office in New York, with plans for Los Angeles and Dubai. A major focus for Roheel is company culture, leading to his great successes. The Financial Times has recognized FB as one of the fastest growing businesses in Europe. Follow Roheel: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roheelahmad/  More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

How can we get more women in leadership positions? How can collaboration foster growth in all of us? In this episode, Lindsay Glassco answers these questions and more. What You’ll Learn: 1. The qualities needed for a leader in the modern world. 2. How collaboration and consultation are an investment in outcomes. 3. How impact will follow a culture of authenticity and diversity. 4. How youth working with executives has improved the lives of both. 5. The importance of having diverse role models. 6. Why you need to celebrate the small successes. Who is Lindsay? Lindsay Glassco is President and CEO of Plan International Canada, which is a member of a global organization dedicated to advancing children's rights in over 80 countries. They exist to create a just world where children, especially girls, learn, lead, decide, and thrive. Lindsay is a dynamic leader with over 25 years of experience developing and managing social policies and programs in diverse environments worldwide. In 2023, under her leadership Plan International Canada has earned a place in Waterstones, Canada's most admired cultures hall of fame, the first non profit to receive this distinction, so a heartfelt congratulations. Lindsay also received the 2023 McGill Distinguished Leader Award. Before joining PLAN, Lindsay was based in Geneva, Switzerland, acting as Secretary General of CARE International. She has also held executive roles, including President and CEO of Special Olympics Canada and Global Director of Policy and Strategy for Right to Play. Lindsay is truly a global citizen, having lived and worked in over 60 countries. Follow Lindsay: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindsayglassco/  More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Are you ready to unlock the transformative power of the digital mindset? Join me as I engage in an enlightening discussion with Dr. Paul Leonardi, a renowned digital thought-leader and author of the compelling book, Digital Mindset: What It Really Takes to Thrive in the Age of Data, Algorithms and AI. We'll peel back the layers on the crucial role of technology in driving organizational change, and how a deft grasp on data, A.I. and algorithms can fuel performance and innovation in today's ever-evolving workspace. Picture yourself in the shoes of a corporate leader struggling with inclusive decision-making in a diverse team. How would you navigate this? Dr. Leonardo serves us an intriguing case study demonstrating how a digital mindset can be harnessed to rectify such a predicament. We'll also explore the importance of humility in cultivating this mindset and the level of technical proficiency required. It's a journey of discovery that challenges conventional wisdom and pushes the boundaries of strategic thinking. The digital landscape is an intimidating frontier for many. Together with Dr. Leonardi, we'll confront the fears surrounding new tech tools, unravel the potential of A.I. in generating value for your organization, and underscore the significance of data literacy and psychological safety amidst these changes. Moreover, we'll explore how leaders can maintain a meaningful and effective connection with their team in this digital age. Join us as we equip you with the essential tools to thrive in the exciting new world of digital transformation. What You’ll Learn: • Uncover the blueprint of the digital mindset and the essential skills for innovation in the modern workplace. • How a product leader transformed team decision-making with a digital approach. • Discover the level of technical proficiency required to harness the digital mindset effectively. • Strategies for overcoming the fear of new tech. • Explore the transformative potential of AI in creating space for creative thinking and innovation. • Understand the significance of data literacy and psychological safety in the context of digital transformation. Podcast Timestamps: (00:00) - Exploring the Digital Mindset (10:26) – The Power of the Digital Mindset (24:54) - Embracing A.I. for Digital Transformation (36:47) - Skill Building in a Digital Environment (44:54) - Data Literacy and the Importance of Psychological Safety Key Topics Discussed: Positive Leadership, Digital Mindset, A.I., Algorithms, Technological Advancement, Inclusive Decision-Making, Technological Proficiency, Humility, Digital Transformation, Data Literacy, Psychological Safety, A.I. Game-Changer, Creative Thinking, Strategic Conversations, Technological Innovation, Technology Disruption, CEO Success More of Paul: At UC Santa Barbara Dr. Leonardi is chair of the technology management department whose programs are all aimed at teaching engineers and other technical leaders how to build and run innovative companies. In addition to his extensive speaking and consulting work, he has published over 80 articles and chapters in peer reviewed journals and management outlets, including Harvard Business Review and Sloan Management Review. He's also the author of three books on innovation and organizational change. And he has won major awards for his research, including from very well respected organizations like the Academy of Management and the American Sociological Association. His most recent book, The Digital Mindset: What It Really Takes to Thrive in the Age of Data, Algorithms, and AI, explores digital literacy, the roles technology can play in our organizations, and how we can adapt with it. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-leonardi-45b67321/ Mentions: The Digital Mindset, Humble, The Right Kind of Wrong More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Today you’ll meet the visionary, Jan Ryde, a remarkable CEO, whose leadership has catapulted Hästens’ growth by an astounding 50,000%. Yes, you read that right! His unique philosophy explores how love serves as the foundation for Hästens’ entire organization, from its approach to craftsmanship to the way employees interact. We take you behind the scenes of Hästens, a 170-year-old family-owned business renowned for crafting the world's highest-quality beds and mattresses. Unlike the noisy, dusty image you might have, Hästens’ factory exudes serenity, calmness, and a deep sense of connection. So what makes them different? Hästens’ values and beliefs are authentically embodied by its people and leadership, reinforcing the philosophy outlined in Jan Ryde's upcoming book, When Business is Love. Hear Craig’s reaction to Jan’s question he proposed, "what makes you awesome?" Spoiler, it's not just about strengths but a deeper level of emotional engagement. Stay tuned for the full episode in January 2024, where we explore these concepts in even greater depth… More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Imagine stepping into a high-profile leadership role, just as a global pandemic hits. This was the reality for Tracey Black, President and CEO of Payments Canada. In our deeply insightful conversation, Tracey offers a candid look into her leadership style, the challenges she faced, and the lessons she learned. Have you ever considered the power of authenticity and empathy in leadership, especially in the face of adversity? Tracey emphasizes how these traits have not only shaped her as a leader, but have also been vital in navigating the pandemic and the challenges and opportunities it provided. From addressing the struggles faced by individuals with invisible disabilities, to maintaining constructive dialogue amidst conflict, her experiences underscore the need for understanding and commitment in leadership during difficult times. Finally, we address the undervalued importance of self-care and engaging in intentional networking. Tracey spotlights the myriad advantages that can spring from connecting with a diverse group of individuals - it's all about broadening perspectives and building relationships. She also speaks on the powerful role of mentors and sponsors in supporting one's growth, reminding us that no one climbs the ladder of success alone. What You’ll Learn: • The importance of authenticity and empathy in leadership • How to create inclusive work environments, including for those with invisible disabilities • Effective communication strategies for difficult conversations • Questions open doors; statements close doors • The benefits of networking and maintaining diverse interests • The influential role of mentors and sponsors in career growth Podcast Timestamps: (00:00) – Imagine Your First Day as CEO is the Start of a Pandemic (14:03) - Empathy and Understanding in Workplace Accommodations (17:18) – Maintaining Constructive Dialogue During Disagreements (29:25) – Self-care and the Power of Networking (34:47) – Taking Risks and Making Decisions with Incomplete Information (43:50) – The Impact of in-Person Connection Key Topics Discussed: Positive Leadership, Authenticity, Empathy, Integrity, Invisible Disabilities, Trust-Building, Inquiry, Constructive Dialogue, Managing Disagreements, Self-Care, Networking, Diverse Interests, Mentorship, Sponsors, In-Person Conversation, Meaningful Connection, Crisis Leadership, Gratitude More of Tracey: Tracey Black is the President and CEO of Payments Canada. Taking over the role in early 2020, Tracey saw the organization through a period of tremendous change. Payments Canada plays a vital role in supporting the Canadian economy as it ensures that our financial transactions are carried out safely and securely. In 2022, Payments Canada systems cleared and settled 119 trillion transactions. That works out to 476 billion every single business day! Tracey’s past experience includes executive roles at TD Canada Trust and RBC Royal Bank, and she's consulted extensively in the financial services industry as an independent consultant and with McKinsey Company. As President of GFH Group Inc. her responsibilities included the launch of chip cards or smart cards in Canada.  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tracey-black-2606884/  More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

How can you energize your team, drive accountability, and foster a positive work environment as a remote leader? How can a leader harness the power of transparency to ignite a sense of ownership and empowerment within their team? In this episode, Shaun Kindopp answers these questions and more. What You’ll Learn: 1. When to practice the trial by fire method 2. Encouraging the right conflict within your team dynamic 3. Holding your team accountable from afar 4. The 4-day work week 5. Creating transparency in your organization 6. Allowing your team to take ownership of the results 7. The role of humble leadership 8. A questions first approach 9. Creating buy-in with your team for your vision 10. Maximizing your level of resilience 11. Being the leader you’d want to work for Who is Shaun? Shaun Kindopp is the CEO of the Canadian Western Agribition, which is the largest livestock show in Canada. This role has Shaun leading an international hub of agricultural excellence, which reaches over 1,200 international guests from over 63 countries. In this position, Shaun focuses on his passion for creating inclusive and collaborative cultures and streamlining processes. Before taking over his current role, Shaun has had a number of executive roles, including Director of Corporate Partnerships and Sales for the Regina Exhibition Association Limited, as well as Senior Account Executive of Corporate Partnerships for the Regina Pats Hockey Club Limited. These positions have instilled Shaun with the knowledge and experience of being a positive leader and have taught him many lessons that he will share with us today. Follow Shaun: LinkedIn: https://ca.linkedin.com/in/shaun-kindopp-2304b61ab?challengeId=AQE6t0bz3UHniwAAAYqQsZERY_1T_-2KkEgzkedveTR7hLhIMn3FIevBo270JJb2xImozLqZ7zuCR_jBSbOoH3tOpr6PrT9iZg&submissionId=2242ae5f-5996-8417-d4f0-cdf7cf534430&challengeSource=AgFk_Vo92DxlcQAAAYqQseKgjsZuzcN5cs6g01XUwfXZZ9WSX5wNhElx3Odh0ik&challegeType=AgGq2wsc3aMnEAAAAYqQseKj9nOnu5t4FTUH5Xj1mzRPbb3Npf2In6E&memberId=AgGyLRGZ8v3rhwAAAYqQseKmBR-ZekBUid29ZobrS-OhBtA&recognizeDevice=AgFoaaptr9MMWQAAAYqQseKoNhm1CdfaiZRWT9kC9luwM2cWoVe1  More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Microstresses are small, almost unnoticeable stresses that can build up and keep us from our best selves. So, how can you find your microstressors and remove them? In this episode, Rob Cross answers this question and more. What You’ll Learn: 1. Your mind may not register microstress, but your body does. 2. How building a diverse community around you will make you more resilient to stress. 3. How to stop persisting through the system and start shaping it. 4. Creating better (and diverse) relationships by removing microstressors. 5. How to watch for microstresses and what to do about them. 6. How to stop the cycle of passing stress on. Who is Rob? For over 20 years, Rob Cross has studied the underlying networks of effective organizations and the collaborative practices of high performers. Having worked with over 300 organizations he’s reached thousands of leaders from the frontline to the C-suite. He's currently a senior Vice President of Research at Institute for Corporate Productivity. He is the Edward A. Madden professor of Global Leadership at Babson College in Wellesley, Massachusetts. Rob is also the co-founder and research director of the Connected Commons, a consortium of over 150 leading organizations, accelerating network research and practice. He has written over 50 articles for Harvard Business Review, Sloan Management Review, California Management Review Academy, and Management Executive and Organizational Dynamics. His work has also been repeatedly featured in high profile publications like Business Week, Fortune, the Financial Times, Time Magazine, the Wall Street Journal, and Fast Company. And if that wasn't enough, a couple of recent developments, The Microstress Effect has been recognized as an award-winning book by Thinkers 50 and as one of Harvard Business Review’s Big Ideas for 2023. Mentions: The Microstress Effect: How Little Things Pile Up and Create Big Problems--and What to Do about It https://www.amazon.ca/Microstress-Effect-Little-Things-Problems-ebook/dp/B0B5YDDR7F  https://www.robcross.org/  Follow Rob: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/crossrob/  More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

Feedback has famously been coined “The Breakfast of Champions” by bestselling author Ken Blanchard. Yet, why are so many people willing to sit down and have the meal? What’s the best method for delivering feedback? Why are people often resistant to receiving feedback? In this episode, Craig answers these questions and more. What You’ll Learn: 1. The definition of feedback 2. The deck of cards feedback framework 3. When positive feedback because disingenuous 4. Vague vs specific communication for both positive and critical feedback 5. Creating collaboration while delivering feedback More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

How can we trust and apply the information, statistics, and data we find online? Once we have data we can trust, how do we use it to improve? In this episode, Anil Arora answers these and more. What You’ll Learn: 1. The biggest challenges and opportunities of our day and how we can face them. 2. Why data literacy is vital to existing in (and making sense of) today’s world. 3. How data can be used to improve ourselves and our organizations. 4. How AI can be applied responsibly. Who is Anil? Anil has worked with Statistics Canada for over 25 years, leading significant programs and transformations, and since 2016, he’s served as Canada’s Chief Statistician. He has also served in policy and regulatory roles in the government of Canada at Natural Resources Canada, as well as Health Canada. He has led substantial international initiatives working with the United Nations and the OECD. He serves on a number of boards and is very active in the community, supporting events and social causes. He received a Bachelor of Science from the University of Alberta and holds a Graduate Certificate in Public Sector Management and Governments from the University of Ottawa. Follow Anil Arora: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anil-arora-146278160/  More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/

⁠How does one navigate leadership in a world that can be best described as VUCA - volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous? That's the question we tackle with our special guest, Doug Conant, bestselling author, award-winning keynote speaker and former CEO of Campbell Soup Company. Doug draws from his extensive 45-year career to provide insights on how proactive and intentional leadership paves the way through this VUCA terrain. He walks us through mastering our personal stories and the power of resilience that stems from it, fostering an environment of clear communication to alleviate team anxiety, and how the essence of clarity and communication shapes leadership.⁠ Together, we venture forward to explore the concept of 'listen, frame, advance' as a key mechanism to push issues forward. Doug passionately speaks about the importance of leaders openly declaring their values, creating a solid foundation for trust. We emphasize the 'genius of the and', a concept that Doug believes holds immense power in leadership. His experiences coupled with his unique insights on leading with an abundance mindset provide a fresh perspective on leadership practices. Rounding off our riveting discussion, Doug offers his reflections on the future of leadership and the role of the next generation of leaders. He shares his belief in the 'eye of the tiger', a drive and determination he believes is key to building a better world. Lastly, Doug leaves us with some valuable wisdom on the importance of gratitude in our personal and professional lives. Join us for this enlightening talk and be inspired by Doug's vision of leadership. What You’ll Learn: • Proactive strategies for adapting to the ever-evolving leadership landscape • The crucial role of clarity and communication in fostering team trust • Harnessing the "power of and" to unlock abundance in leadership • Empowering the next generation with the 'eye of the tiger' • The transformative impact of gratitude and engagement in every interaction Podcast Timestamps: (00:00) - Leadership Challenges in a VUCA World (13:40) - Managing Anxiety in Teams (19:01) – The Importance of Clarity & Communication in Leadership (30:01) – The Power of 'And' (42:59) - Future Leadership, Better World More of Doug: Doug Conant is the only Fortune 500 CEO who is a New York Times and Wall Street Journal bestselling author. He’s a top 50 leadership innovator, a top 100 leadership speaker, and one of the most influential authors in the world. With a 45 year career defined by achieving high performance through an intentional commitment to studying, Doug is now sharing the tenants of leadership that work. He is the founder and CEO of Conant leadership, former President and CEO of Campbell Soup Company, former president of Nabisco Foods, and former chairman of Avon products. Corporate boards Dough has served on, include those of Amerisource, Bergen, and RHR International. His latest Wall Street Journal bestselling book, co-authored with Amy Federman is The Blueprint: Six Practical Strategies to Lift Your Leadership to New Heights. LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dougconant/ Key Topics Discussed: Positive Leadership, Respectful Workplace, VUCA World, Courageous Leadership, Leading with Conviction, Managing Anxiety, Clarity, Communication, Power of 'And', Future-Proof Leadership, Gratitude, Maximize Engagement, Resilience, Core Values, Principles, Clarify Expectations, Abundance Mindset, Performance Measurement, Feedback, CEO Success More of Do Good to Lead Well: Website: https://craigdowden.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/