Coaching for Leaders

In this engaging conversation, David Hutchens, an expert in storytelling for leaders and author of Story Dash, shares how to uncover impactful stories within organizations. He emphasizes the concept of the "Us At Our Best" taxonomy, illustrating how small, relatable moments can convey powerful messages. David discusses essential storytelling frameworks and tools that help leaders craft narratives that inspire emotional connections. Listeners learn practical strategies for finding and developing stories to drive organizational change and foster team alignment.

Ari Weinzweig, co-founder of the celebrated Zingerman's Community of Businesses, shares his insights on transforming beliefs for effective leadership. He discusses how our often-unconscious beliefs drive our daily actions and the importance of introspection. Ari encourages confronting discomfort as a means to challenge long-held convictions. He also highlights the role of belief transformation in boosting teamwork and attracting new talent. Writing emerges as a powerful tool for communication and fostering community connections, vital for ongoing growth.

Ruth Gotian, a renowned expert in mentorship and leadership development, discusses how high achievers cultivate their networks despite busy schedules. She shares her 24/7/30 rule for making connections and emphasizes the importance of meaningful, authentic relationships over mere transactions. Listeners will learn about the art of small talk, effective conversation starters, and the shift from quantity to quality in networking. Ruth also highlights the value of engaging with diverse individuals for inspiration and insight, enriching both personal and professional growth.

Marshall Goldsmith, a world-renowned executive coach and bestselling author, shares insights on the complexities of empathy in leadership. He discusses the benefits and pitfalls of different types of empathy, revealing how too much can hinder decision-making. Goldsmith introduces the concept of singular empathy, which helps leaders stay present despite busy lives. He encourages listeners to ask themselves, "Am I being the person I want to be right now?" This thought-provoking discussion blends personal growth with meaningful leadership practices.

Ruchika Tulshyan, founder of the global inclusion strategy firm Candour and author of *Inclusion on Purpose*, shares vital insights on inclusive hiring practices. She emphasizes the need for transparency in hiring, advocating for authentic equal opportunity statements to attract diverse candidates. Ruchika also highlights harmful jargon in job postings, promoting a shift towards skills over degrees. Lastly, she urges leaders to rethink traditional interview methods to create a genuinely inclusive culture within organizations.

David Gergen, a seasoned political analyst and former White House adviser to four presidents, shares valuable insights on supporting strong leadership. He emphasizes the importance of speaking truth to power and helping managers overcome challenges by leveraging their strengths. Gergen discusses the delicate balance of loyalty and honesty in leadership, drawing from his experiences during pivotal moments like the Watergate scandal. He also highlights the need to empower the next generation and embrace diverse voices for a brighter future in leadership.

Dive into insightful discussions about enhancing teamwork and communication styles within organizations. Explore how leaders can adapt their approaches to boost team dynamics and individual confidence. The conversation highlights practical strategies for new leaders to recognize talents and foster a supportive environment. Additionally, navigate the complexities of challenging authority with analogies from aviation. Small actions are emphasized as impactful ways to drive meaningful change in leadership.

Eric Pliner, CEO of YSC Consulting and author of "Difficult Decisions," delves into the art of stakeholder engagement in decision-making. He emphasizes the importance of clear communication to define roles—whether providing input, a voice, or a vote. Eric also discusses standardizing decision-making processes to foster collaboration and enhance accountability. He advocates for asking deeper questions to truly understand stakeholder perspectives, and highlights the ethical complexities faced in these interactions. A thought-provoking dialogue on leadership and engagement!

Scott Keller, a senior partner at McKinsey and co-founder of Digital Divide Data, shares invaluable insights from his extensive experience in leadership and teamwork. He emphasizes the importance of staffing for both aptitude and attitude, advocating for a 'first team' mindset among leaders. The conversation reveals how top CEOs navigate personnel changes and establish a team-first culture through effective communication. Scott also discusses the delicate balance of personal connections in leadership, offering fresh perspectives on fostering collaboration and enhancing overall team performance.

Susan MacKenty Brady, CEO of the Simmons University Institute for Inclusive Leadership and an authority on leadership wellbeing, shares her insights on fostering inclusivity. She emphasizes the shift from being an ally to an upstander, advocating for proactive action in addressing inequalities. The conversation highlights the need for self-awareness through implicit bias assessments and the importance of relationship-building in leadership. With a focus on personal responsibility, Susan encourages leaders to engage in meaningful actions that create lasting change.