The Modern Manager
Mamie Kanfer Stewart
Host Mamie Kanfer Stewart shares practical approaches to help you be a great manager. Learn more at: https://themodernmanager.com/
Solo episodes are like mini-courses, providing actionable tips based on experience and research. Guest episodes are engaging conversations that elicit insights and suggestions for how to apply the ideas.
Learn more about effective meeting practices, communication skills, managing conflict, team building, time management, group dynamics, goal setting and accountability, team competencies, productivity and collaboration technologies, organizational culture, and more.
Be sure to follow the podcast on your favorite platform so you never miss a new episode!
Solo episodes are like mini-courses, providing actionable tips based on experience and research. Guest episodes are engaging conversations that elicit insights and suggestions for how to apply the ideas.
Learn more about effective meeting practices, communication skills, managing conflict, team building, time management, group dynamics, goal setting and accountability, team competencies, productivity and collaboration technologies, organizational culture, and more.
Be sure to follow the podcast on your favorite platform so you never miss a new episode!
Episodes
Mentioned books
15 snips
Oct 7, 2025 • 33min
378: How to Lead Projects and People without Chaos and Burnout with James Louttit
James Louttit, author and former CIO turned leadership coach, joins the conversation to share insights on effective project management. He introduces his "eight lenses," emphasizing prioritization as the key to avoiding chaos and burnout. Listeners learn about engaging stakeholders, managing risks, and estimating project effort versus duration. James also highlights the importance of blending agile and waterfall methods for efficiency. Through relatable examples, he illustrates how strong leadership can protect teams and drive project success.
12 snips
Sep 30, 2025 • 33min
377: Unlock 24 Hidden Strengths to Transform Your Leadership & Work with Natalya Pestalozzi
Join Natalya Pestalozzi, a positive psychology expert and certified coach, as she explores the profound impact of character strengths on leadership and workplace dynamics. She reveals the 24 VIA character strengths, emphasizing their universal value across cultures. Discover how positive psychology differs from toxic positivity, and learn about the PERMA model of wellbeing. Natalya shares practical tips for utilizing strengths in teams and the importance of cultivating traits like social intelligence and gratitude for authentic leadership.
26 snips
Sep 23, 2025 • 31min
376: How To Delegate And Unlock Growth With Chris Ronzio
In this engaging discussion, Chris Ronzio, Founder and CEO of Trainual and author of The Business Playbook, shares his expertise on effective delegation and documentation. He explores why managers struggle to let go of tasks, emphasizing the need for clear processes to foster team success. Chris introduces a three-step framework for delegation and offers practical templates for documentation. He also discusses the importance of keeping documentation current and how cultivating a proactive culture can enhance team dynamics.
8 snips
Sep 16, 2025 • 32min
375: The Hidden Power of Groups That Makes Teams Succeed with Colin Fisher
Colin Fisher, an Associate Professor at University College London and author of The Collective Edge, dives into the hidden mechanics behind successful teamwork. He explains why groups are essential for achieving not just tasks but also creativity and emotional fulfillment. Colin discusses how clear goals and team structure lead to improved collaboration and engagement. He also shares practical tips on fostering psychological safety and effective communication, ensuring managers can unlock their teams' collective potential.
21 snips
Sep 9, 2025 • 36min
374: How to Lead People Who Are Different From You with Stephanie Chung
In this conversation, Stephanie Chung, an international bestselling author and human capital expert, discusses leading diverse teams effectively. She emphasizes that understanding differences—such as generational, cultural, and gender variances—is crucial for managers. Chung introduces her ALLY framework, which encourages curiosity and inclusive practices. She also highlights leveraging privilege responsibly to foster inclusivity and create high-performing teams. By promoting a culture of learning and active listening, leaders can truly embrace the power of diversity.
Sep 2, 2025 • 31min
373: How Thoughtful Leadership Helps Introverts Contribute Their Best at Work with Salvatore Manzi
Salvatore Manzi, a leadership communications coach and author of "Clear and Compelling," reveals how workplaces often neglect introverts. He discusses strategies that empower introverts to share their insights, such as thoughtful meeting structures and the crucial 10-second rule for communication. Salvatore emphasizes the importance of pre-work and breaks to create an inclusive environment. He also highlights the significance of recognizing quiet leadership, shedding light on how introverts can thrive and succeed in collaborative settings.
Aug 26, 2025 • 29min
372: Why Emotional Intelligence Matters More Than Ever with Jamelle Lindo
Jamelle Lindo, an executive coach and emotional intelligence specialist, shares insights on the vital role of emotional intelligence in leadership today. He discusses essential EQ skills like empathy, assertiveness, and self-awareness that drive effective communication. Jamelle provides practical tools for delivering feedback and fostering self-awareness, emphasizing the importance of balancing technical skills with human connections. His perspective in a tech-driven world highlights how emotional intelligence can be a competitive edge for leaders.
8 snips
Aug 19, 2025 • 30min
371: Rewire Your Brain for Leadership Success with Larry Olsen
Larry Olsen, an expert in performance-driven neurology and founder of Aperneo, reveals how understanding brain mechanics can revolutionize leadership. He explains the key differences between the brain and mind, and how predictability can hinder growth. Listeners learn about neuroplasticity and practical brain hacks to overcome limiting beliefs. The conversation also touches on how to foster authentic leadership and enhance communication through positive self-talk, ultimately inspiring a culture of growth and resilience within teams.
Aug 12, 2025 • 31min
370: Improv Techniques That Instantly Boost Your Communication Skills with Jeff Mondoro
Join Jeff Mondoro, an improviser and executive coach, as he reveals how improv can supercharge your communication skills. He emphasizes that it's not about being funny but rather about active listening and collaboration. Discover ways to overcome nerves in conversations and the power of asking questions to bridge communication gaps. Jeff shares insights on fostering a growth mindset and how unpolished ideas can lead to innovation. Embrace spontaneity and authenticity to enhance your team's dynamics!
7 snips
Aug 5, 2025 • 31min
369: Make Work More Fun Without Losing Your Professional Edge with Bree Groff
Bree Groff, author of TODAY WAS FUN and a transformation expert, shakes up traditional notions of professionalism. She discusses the distinction between functional and performative professionalism, advocating for authenticity over appearance. Bree shares how micro acts of fun can enhance team trust and creativity, even in remote settings. She emphasizes the importance of individual expression in attire and leadership, encouraging open communication and simple rituals to foster psychological safety in the workplace.
