Love in Action

Episode recap    This episode is brought to you by Peak Performers, a nonprofit staffing agency that champions professionals with disabilities. Learn more at www.peakperformers.org.    This week on the Love in Action Podcast, I welcomed back Bob Chapman and Raj Sisodia for a powerful conversation about what happens when leadership is rooted in genuine care. We talk about the 10th anniversary edition of their seminal classic, Everybody Matters, and why the book and movement continue to resonate around the world. We break down why people-centered leadership is more urgent than ever, and how treating people with care, dignity, and respect isn’t just the right thing to do, it’s what builds strong, resilient organizations. If you care about creating workplaces where people actually thrive, this episode is for you.    BOB CHAPMAN is the chairman of Barry-Wehmiller. A sought-after speaker on human-centered leadership, business growth, sustained performance, and culture transformation, Chapman strives to use his business leadership platform to build a better world.      RAJ SISODIA is a cofounder of the Conscious Capitalism movement and a pioneering voice in the global business renaissance. He is the author or coauthor of 16 books, including The New York Times bestseller Conscious Capitalism (with John P. Mackey of Whole Foods Market).     Quotes:  We have a hunger for caring in the world, and this book addresses caring.  The way we lead impacts the way people live.  Business could be the most powerful force for good in the world if we simply knew how to care for the people we have the privilege of leading.  You cannot ask people to care for others; you must teach them the human skills of caring.  You cannot lead the people unless you love the people, and you cannot love the people unless you know the people.  Takeaways:  Truly Human Leadership reframes business from an economic relationship to a deeply human relationship where people are the purpose.  Caring is a learnable skill that must be intentionally taught, not just requested or assumed.  The person you report to at work can affect your health more than your family doctor.  Most business education still focuses on numbers and profit while bypassing the human heart and soul.  Conscious, caring leadership positively ripples into marriages, families, and even future generations.  Timestamps:  00:00:03 Opening and introduction of Bob Chapman and Raj Sisodia  00:02:33 Tenth anniversary of Everybody Matters and why it still matters  00:06:01 Origin story and why the book had to be written  00:08:02 Lessons from a decade of impact and stress testing through crisis  00:11:24 How leadership at work shapes health, marriage, and family life  00:16:15 What business schools still get wrong about leadership and purpose  00:21:08 How Everybody Matters deepened the idea of conscious capitalism  00:25:22 What Truly Human Leadership really means beyond just being nice  00:30:30 Stories of companies transformed by caring cultures  00:34:04 Why the wrong people often rise and how to rethink who becomes a leader  00:39:20 A message that can heal business, education, and society  00:44:18 Love, leadership, and practical caring in everyday management  00:46:00 Conclusion   Conclusion:  This conversation shows that leadership is not about titles or metrics, but about the lives entrusted to you. Bob and Raj reveal that when leaders choose to care, organizations do not just perform better; people become healthier, more hopeful, and more connected at home. They challenge the prevailing belief that profit must come before people and instead show how human dignity and strong business performance can reinforce each other. The episode also exposes how our education and promotion systems neglect the human side of work, and why teaching caring skills is no longer optional. In the end, listeners are invited to see business as a profound opportunity to practice love in action so that, in every workplace, everybody truly matters.  Links/Resources:  The Book: https://www.amazon.com/Everybody-Matters-Extraordinary-Caring-People/dp/1591847796/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0   Bob Chapman - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bob-chapman-89b936b8/   Raj Sisodia - https://rajsisodia.com/   Barry-Wehmiller - https://www.barrywehmiller.com/   Conscious Capitalism - https://www.consciouscapitalism.org/    Truly Human Leadership - https://www.barrywehmiller.com/blog     Bob Chapman, Episode #6: https://www.marcelschwantes.com/bob-chapman/   Raj Sisodia, Episode #36: https://www.marcelschwantes.com/raj-sisodia/    Substack: https://marcelschwantes.substack.com/  

Episode recap  This episode is brought to you by Peak Performers, a nonprofit staffing agency that champions professionals with disabilities. Learn more at www.peakperformers.org   If you’ve ever wondered what shaped Ken Blanchard into one of the most trusted leadership voices of our time, this episode offers a rare behind-the-scenes look. I sat down with Martha Lawrence—Ken’s longtime friend, collaborator, and biographer—and what unfolded was a rich mix of humor, history, and heart. In her new book, “Catch People Doing Things Right: How Ken Blanchard Changed the Way the World Leads,” Martha reveal the real Ken. She walks through her own journey as well—how a post-9/11 turning point led her to Blanchard’s organization and eventually to writing the definitive biography that captures his wisdom, quirks, and quiet resilience.    Bio   A former editor at Simon & Schuster and Harcourt, Martha C. Lawrence has shaped the voices of some of the world’s most successful thought leaders. As executive editor at Blanchard, she has collaborated with Ken Blanchard for more than 20 years. Her editing credits include multimillion-copy bestsellers and #1 New York Times titles. Lawrence is passionate about leadership, storytelling, and capturing legacies that matter. She is the author “Catch People Doing Things Right: How Ken Blanchard Changed the Way the World Leads.”    Quotes:  I knew I could not have worked alongside a human being who not only was so innovative and intelligent and heart-centered, but who lived the same things he's teaching.  If one of the takeaways from the book is that you don't have to be perfect to be successful.  You want to lift people—you want to catch them doing things right.    Takeaways:  True leadership is based on humility, trust, and the authentic desire to lift others up.  Setbacks and personal challenges can become sources of strength and inspiration.  Servant leadership means supporting your team from the bottom up, not ruling from the top.  The best leaders are those who make others feel valued and recognized for their contributions.  Lifelong learning and collaboration can fuel both personal and organizational growth.    Timestamps:  0:00:00 — Sponsor Message & Podcast Welcome  0:01:30 — Marcel introduces Ken Blanchard's influence and today’s theme  0:02:30 — Introducing guest Martha C. Lawrence and her background  0:05:00 — Martha shares her story and career path  0:07:30 — Martha discusses overcoming personal adversity  0:10:54 — How Martha began working with Ken Blanchard  0:12:54 — Inspiration to write Ken’s biography  0:16:09 — Ken’s connections and meeting Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.  0:19:33 — How Ken’s parents shaped his leadership values  0:21:21 — The inverted pyramid and servant leadership explained  0:23:13 — Ken’s mentors, co-authors, and learning philosophy  0:25:07 — Ken’s personal and professional setbacks  0:27:38 — Ken’s humor and breaking the rules  0:31:26 — The evolution of Ken’s servant leadership philosophy  0:33:39 — "The One Minute Manager"—origins and impact  0:35:54 — Are the principles of "The One Minute Manager" still relevant?  0:37:51 — Research and surprises from Ken's archives  0:39:57 — Including love in leadership and chapter discussion  0:42:42 — What readers can gain from the book; catching people doing things right  0:45:08 — Distinguishing between care and love in leadership  0:47:39 — Speed Round: What makes Martha smile, her inspirations, and hopes  0:53:33 — The big takeaway: Leadership is love  0:54:25 — Where to find Martha and Ken’s resources online  0:55:01 — Closing gratitude and episode wrap-up    Conclusion:  The stories shared in this episode remind us that genuine leadership is shaped by humility, resilience, and compassion. Ken Blanchard’s journey proves that success is rooted as much in character as in achievement. Martha’s perspective brings to life the transformative effect of working alongside a true role model. Their experiences illustrate that lifting other and embracing authenticity can leave a legacy that outlasts any title. As you move forward, ask yourself: how can you lead with more heart in your own life and work?    Links/Resources:  www.marthalawrence.com www.blanchard.com www.kenblanchardbooks.com Episode #3: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/love-in-action/id1456073489?i=1000433623822 Episode #122: https://www.marcelschwantes.com/ken-blanchard-2/

This episode is brought to you by Peak Performers, a nonprofit staffing agency that champions professionals with disabilities. Learn more at www.peakperformers.org     Episode recap:    Today’s guest is Bree Sarlati, President and CEO of Peak Performers, a nonprofit staffing agency that champions professionals with disabilities. Sarlati is leading Peak Performers’ mission to raise the standard of employment for people with disabilities. She breaks down the biases that still shape hiring and explains how Peak is proving that skilled talent is everywhere. We discuss how to build inclusive teams and how Peak is scaling nationally while staying deeply human-centered. Bree also shares their “Talent Without Limits” initiative and explains how her team is integrating AI into recruiting without losing empathy or accountability.    BIO:   Bree Sarlati is a pragmatic strategist known for turning complexity into clarity. As CEO of Peak Performers, Bree has led the organization's national expansion, modernizing operations, embracing new technology, and scaling its mission beyond Texas. Her focus on agility ensures that even as Peak grows, it never loses the human touch that defines its work. Bree has a talent for spotting potential that others miss and for connecting people with opportunities that move them forward. Passionate about disability employment and gender equity in leadership, she champions fair, future-ready systems and brings clarity, curiosity, and a people-first approach when the stakes are high.   Quotes:  Our mission as a non-profit has always been to set a higher standard of employment for people with disabilities.  We stay focused on the candidates who are going through one of the most stressful experiences of their lives, which is job searching. That's a time when we should be very aware of people's human-level needs.  A CEO always needs to be looking inward and asking, 'What skills do I need to add to take this organization to where I want it to go?  Takeaways:  Inclusive hiring unlocks hidden talent and drives organizational success.  Disabilities encompass many unseen conditions and should be understood broadly.  Technology can scale impact without sacrificing the human connection in recruiting.  Agile leadership starts with self-awareness and adapting to constant change.  Empathy and respect should guide all workplace interactions and decision-making.  Timestamps:  00:00:00 Introduction and Overview of Peak Performers  00:02:30 Bree Sarlati’s Journey and Passion for Storytelling  00:08:40 Peak Performers’ Mission and Redefining Disability Employment  00:14:20 Challenges and Evolution in Disability-Inclusive Hiring  00:21:00 The Importance of Agility and Leadership Self-Awareness  00:26:30 Building Agile, Human-Centered Teams  00:32:00 Leveraging Technology Without Losing the Human Touch  00:36:30 The “Talent Without Limits” Initiative  00:41:00 The Role of Empathy, AI, and Creativity in Modern Recruiting  00:45:30 Leading with Love, Key Takeaways, and Final Thoughts  00:49:00 Connecting with Bree Sarlati and Closing Remarks    Conclusion:  As this inspiring conversation draws to a close, reflect on how inclusive hiring can transform both businesses and lives. We have learned that true agility in leadership comes from embracing change with empathy and purpose. Peak Performers shows us that technology and human connection can coexist to build workplaces of belonging. The journey to future-ready teams begins by recognizing untapped potential and challenging our own assumptions. Let us carry these lessons forward and strive to create workplaces where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.    Links/Resources:  Peak Performers Website: https://www.peakperformers.org/   Peak Performers on LinkedIn (Company Page): https://www.linkedin.com/company/peak-performers-staffing-agency/   Bree Sarlati on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bree-sarlati/      

Don’t forget Marcel’s special offer to join his Substack community. Subscribe here: https://marcelschwantes.substack.com/subscribe   Episode recap: This episode explores a quiet but powerful turning point many high-achieving leaders face in midlife, when success no longer feels fulfilling. It names the real issue—not burnout, but misalignment between a leader’s outer accomplishments and inner values—and reframes it as a necessary recalibration rather than a crisis. Through reflection, values realignment, and intentional listening, leaders can reconnect with meaning, purpose, and a more authentic way of leading and living.   Bio: Marcel Schwantes is a speaker, author, and acclaimed executive coach with a global following. Recognized by Inc. Magazine as one of the Top 50 Leadership and Management Experts in 2025, Marcel’s thought leadership reaches millions each month through global media like Inc., Time, Fast Company, Business Insider, and Forbes. Marcel delivers presentations, workshops, courses, and coaching programs about the human side of business and how cultures of care,  connection, and belonging power companies to thrive and outperform the competition.   Quotes:  True fulfillment begins when you pause to listen to your inner voice, not just your outer achievements.  The greatest crisis we face in midlife is not failure but living a life out of alignment with who we truly are.  Success without meaning will always leave you feeling restless and incomplete.  When you dare to revisit your core values, you rediscover the energy and purpose that fuel your next chapter.  Your next breakthrough starts when you ask what decision moves you closer to who you are becoming.    Takeaways:  External accomplishments alone cannot bring lasting fulfillment without inner alignment.  Regular stillness and reflection are essential to connect with your true values and desires.  Midlife is not a crisis, but a powerful opportunity for recalibration and growth.  Simple daily questions and journaling can reveal the real story of who you are now.  Realigning your life with your authentic self opens the door to deeper joy, meaning, and impact.    Timestamps:  00:00:00 Introduction & The Hidden Question Behind Success 00:01:40 Success Achieved, Emptiness Remains 00:03:20 The Disconnect of “Going Through the Motions.” 00:05:00 Decades of Momentum & Inner Tiredness 00:06:40 Playing a Character & Seeking Deeper Meaning 00:08:20 Facing Burnout & The Concept of Misalignment 00:10:00 Rediscovering Values and Building Self-Awareness 00:11:40 Time to Pivot: Steps for Realignment 00:13:20 Grounding Yourself with Daily Questions 00:15:00 Journaling Exercise, Reflections & Outro   Conclusion:  True fulfillment starts when you stop chasing more and start tuning into what matters most within. The path to congruence is not about abandoning your achievements but about aligning them with your deepest values and desires. Remember, the discomfort you feel is really an invitation that serves as a wake-up call to a richer, more meaningful season of life. By embracing stillness, revisiting your core values, and asking powerful questions, you can chart a new course that feels genuinely right for you. Your next chapter is waiting, so are you ready to write it with purpose and passion?    Links/Resources:  Substack: https://marcelschwantes.substack.com/       LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcelschwantes/   Twitter/X: https://x.com/MarcelSchwantes   YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@MarcelSchwantes1 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marcel.schwantes/  

Episode recap:   Subscribe to Marcel’s Substack here:   https://marcelschwantes.substack.com/subscribe     Marcel Schwantes opens Season 10 with gratitude and a renewed call for better leadership. He previews more solo episodes in 2026 and emphasizes that a leadership strategy only works when a leader’s character and inner operating system are solid. He reframes authentic leadership as humility, self-honesty, and service. Authenticity starts with self-awareness, supported by a weekly reflection: where you lived your values, where you drifted, and what triggered it. He links authentic leadership to well-being by urging leaders to remove friction, create clarity, support mental health, and help people connect to purpose—since burnout often stems from a loss of meaning, not just workload.    Bio:   Marcel Schwantes is a speaker, author, and acclaimed executive coach with a global following. Recognized by Inc. Magazine as one of the Top 50 Leadership and Management Experts in 2025, Marcel’s thought leadership reaches millions each month through global media like Inc., Time, Fast Company, Business Insider, and Forbes. Marcel delivers presentations, workshops, courses, and coaching programs about the human side of business and how cultures of care,  connection, and belonging power companies to thrive and outperform the competition.    Quotes:  "You become a far more effective leader the moment you stop performing leadership and start practicing it."  "Authentic leadership always, always starts with self-honesty."  "Humility is a performance enhancer, not just a personality trait."  "Great leaders aren't afraid of holding up the mirror; they invite feedback and treat it like data, not judgment."  "Real authentic leadership exists to meet real human needs."    Takeaways:  Authentic leadership begins with self-honesty and removing the mask.  Humility allows leaders to learn, grow, and truly connect with others.  Seeking and acting on feedback transforms workplace relationships.  Meeting the real needs of people is at the heart of effective leadership.  Redefining leadership with authenticity, humility, and service sets the stage for a thriving culture.    Timestamps:  00:00 Introduction & Podcast Purpose  03:26 2026 Podcast Direction & New Year Focus  06:00 Principles of Authentic Leadership  08:30 Practical Implementation Tips  14:45 Conclusion & Call to Action    Conclusion:  As we close out this episode, remember that real leadership begins with honesty, humility, and a genuine commitment to serving others. By embracing authenticity and staying true to your values, you create space for growth, trust, and lasting impact. Let this new year be your opportunity to lead with heart, listen deeply, and elevate the people around you. True change starts from within, and your leadership can set the tone for a better tomorrow.    Links/Resources:  Substack: https://marcelschwantes.substack.com/       LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcelschwantes/   Twitter/X: https://x.com/MarcelSchwantes   YouTube: hhttps://www.youtube.com/@MarcelSchwantes1  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marcel.schwantes/  

Episode recap Vanessa Druskat, social and organizational psychologist and author of The Emotionally Intelligent Team, joined the Love In Action podcast to unpack what truly separates average teams from exceptional ones. Her decades of research reveal that it’s not brilliance at the top or superstar individual contributors that drive sustained performance. The real differentiator is a team’s emotional ecosystem—the shared norms, routines, and habits that create trust, belonging, and collaborative energy. By shaping the everyday habits discussed, leaders can create a culture where people feel safe, energized, and committed—conditions that ultimately drive exceptional performance.   Bio Vanessa Druskat is an associate professor at the Peter T. Paul College of Business and Economics at the University of New Hampshire. As an internationally recognized leadership and team performance expert, Vanessa Druskat advises leaders and teams at over a dozen Fortune 500 and Fortune Global 500 companies. She is the recipient of multiple research and teaching awards. She is the author of The Emotionally Intelligent Team.    Quotes:  “We spend a lot of time trying to hire the best people or fix people, but we don’t spend enough time asking the collective what it needs to work better together.”  “To experience belongingness, a person must feel seen, known, understood, and supported by the entire team. We are wired to perform at our best under these conditions.”  “Leaders have the power to change their teams’ cultures and add practices that respect members’ universal human need to belong.”  Takeaways:  Emotionally intelligent teams thrive by creating routines that build trust, psychological safety, and belonging.  Successful collaboration is driven by helping team members succeed, improving constantly, and seeking new ideas.  Understanding teammates’ unique strengths and personalities is key to engagement and high performance.  Addressing unacceptable behavior with caring, actionable feedback strengthens team dynamics.  Leaders should assess team needs regularly and set collective norms to foster a culture of continuous improvement.  Timestamps:  0:00:02 Introduction & Episode Overview  0:02:40 Guest Welcome & Background  0:05:32 Motivations for Studying Teams  0:07:10 Defining Team Emotional Intelligence  0:10:40 Team Norms & Three Core Buckets  0:15:33 Helping One Another Succeed  0:16:37 Understanding Team Members  0:18:55 Demonstrating Caring  0:23:15 Addressing Unacceptable Behavior  0:29:43 Measuring Team Success  0:32:11 Groupthink & Decision Making  0:33:29 Speed Round: Personal Insights  0:36:26 Hopes for 2026  0:37:53 Leadership, Love, and Final Advice  0:40:53 Connecting with Vanessa Druskat  0:41:41 Closing Remarks  Conclusion:  As we wrap up this episode, remember that extraordinary teams aren’t built by perfect individuals—they’re powered by collective trust, curiosity, and care. Let today be your reminder to reach out, understand, and uplift those around you. When we lead with empathy and foster true connection, the results speak for themselves. Here’s to building teams where every voice matters, and collaboration leads the way.  Links/Resources:  LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/vanessa-druskat/   Website - https://www.vanessadruskat.com/   Team EI Survey – https://www.vanessadruskat.com/survey   Book - https://www.amazon.com/dp/1647824877?tag=bk00010a-20&th=1&psc=1&geniuslink=true   University of New Hampshire -  https://paulcollege.unh.edu/person/vanessa-druskat  

Episode recap   What happens when a West Point–trained Army Ranger turns his convictions about faith, entrepreneurship, and country into a fast-growing, American-made apparel brand? In this episode, Marcel sits down with Dean Wegner, founder and CEO of Authentically American, to explore how military discipline, servant leadership, and a mission-driven business model are reshaping what “Made in the USA” can mean today.    Note: You can purchase one of the sweat-activated T-shirts here: https://www.authenticallyamerican.us/collections/army-west-point-screenprint    If you use the code FOUNDER, you will get 25% off.   Bio: Dean Wegner is the Founder and CEO of Authentically American, a Veteran-owned, American-made premium apparel brand. They are a company that celebrates patriotism, supports the American worker, and donates 10% of its profits to Veteran and First Responder charities. A West Point graduate, Dean served 7 years as a helicopter pilot and Army Ranger. Dean and Authentically American have been featured in Forbes, Inc. Magazine, FOX News, MSNBC, Nasdaq, Newsmax TV, and SiriusXM Radio.    Quotes:  “When things are really challenging, you cannot do it on your own. You need a team.”  “No one cares about how much you know until they know how much you care.”  “You do not get to sing second unless you have a tireless work ethic.”    Takeaways:  Servant leadership becomes even more important in moments of difficulty  Values create the foundation for how a leader shows up each day  Having a Ranger buddy or trusted partner increases your chances of success  Great ideas do not always come from the leader; they come from the team  Mission-driven work fuels perseverance and purpose    Timestamps:  [01:55] Dean joins and aligns with servant leadership  [02:13] Dean shares his personal story and values  [03:27] What Authentically American is and why American-made matters  [04:38] The impact of creating American jobs  [05:45] Business model explanation and pricing strategy  [06:49] Military experiences shaping Dean as a leader  [08:53] The meaning of sing second and respect in leadership  [11:15] Leadership lessons from Ranger School and corporate life  [15:20] Servant leadership during challenging times  [16:27] Counterintuitive leadership lesson about thought leadership  [18:15] Advice for aspiring founders and servant leaders  [19:16] Future growth and building a sales team  [20:34] Dean demos the sweat-activated T-shirt  [23:29] Custom apparel for businesses and nonprofits  [24:08] How Authentically American serves charities at cost  [25:09] Speed round: family, fitness, and inspirations  [27:29] Dean’s biggest hope for 2026  [28:33] Leading with practical love in action  [29:19] Final takeaway about having a Ranger buddy  [30:09] How to connect with Dean and the brand  [31:06] Closing remarks and Army-Navy game reminder    Conclusion:  Dean Wegner leaves listeners with a clear message that leadership is ultimately an act of service. Through his military lessons, commitment to American manufacturing, and daily devotion to putting others first, he demonstrates that meaningful leadership is built on humility, teamwork, and purpose. His story calls us to lead with care, stay rooted in our values, and pursue missions that create real impact in the lives of others.    Links/Resources:  Website: https://www.authenticallyamerican.us/     Dean Wegner on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deanwegner93/  Facebook: @AuthenticallyAmericanCo   Instagram: @authentically_american  

Episode Recap This week on the podcast, I sat down with Dr. Jaime Goff — executive coach, therapist, and author of The Secure Leader. Our conversation goes deep into something many leaders feel but rarely explore: how our early attachment patterns quietly follow us into the workplace.    Dr. Jaime breaks attachment theory down into something extremely practical for leaders. At the core are two questions we all carry:  Am I worthy of connection? Can I trust others to show up for me?  Our answers tend to show up at work in three ways. One of those ways is that of a “secure leader”: Grounded, steady, and empowering — the hallmark of modern servant leadership.  Leaders who do the inner work of a Secure Leader create workplaces where people can flourish.    Guest Bio Dr. Jaime Goff is the founder of The Empathic Leader, LLC, where she specializes in helping leaders unlock their full potential through executive coaching, insightful workshops, and thought-provoking keynotes. Jaime holds a PhD in Couple and Family Therapy from Michigan State University and a graduate certificate in executive coaching from Southern Methodist University   Quotes:  “We are not prisoners to our previous patterns, because we all have the power to become more secure.”  “Your leadership is shaped long before you ever enter a leadership role.”  “To love others well as a leader, you first have to believe you are worthy of love yourself.”  “Emotional regulation is the first step toward showing up as a secure and present leader.”  “All behavior makes sense in context, especially when you understand your story.”    Takeaways:  “We are not prisoners to our previous patterns, because we all have the power to become more secure.”  “Your leadership is shaped long before you ever enter a leadership role.”  “To love others well as a leader, you first have to believe you are worthy of love yourself.”  “Emotional regulation is the first step toward showing up as a secure and present leader.”  “All behavior makes sense in context, especially when you understand your story.”    Timestamps:  00:02 Intro and podcast milestones  05:12 Meet Dr. Jaime Goff and her personal story  07:21 The “latchkey kid” upbringing and over-independence  10:55 Why she wrote The Secure Leader  13:26 Attachment theory explained  15:21 How unworthiness shapes controlling or approval-seeking leadership  18:50 Jaime’s aha moment as a young leader  21:34 Gaining awareness and deconstructing your story  24:07 Avoidant, anxious, and secure leadership styles  28:44 Trauma, triggers, and past patterns repeating at work  32:18 The cost of skipping inner work  37:49 First steps to becoming a secure leader  40:06 Where to take the Secure Leader style scan  41:37 Speed round  45:52 Jaime’s hope for more secure leadership  48:31 Leading with love and building self-worth  50:56 Final takeaway on moving slow to move fast  52:57 How to connect with Dr. Jaime Goff    Conclusion:  As we close this inspiring conversation, remember that real leadership begins within. When you commit to self-discovery, you build the foundation to lead others with empathy, purpose, and resilience. Growth is a lifelong journey where each step forward helps you make a positive impact on those around you. Lead with clarity, nurture meaningful connections, and watch your influence create ripples of transformation in your team and beyond.    Links/Resources:  Website (take the assessment)- https://drjaimegoff.com/   LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjaimegoff/   Amazon - https://www.amazon.com/Secure-Leader-Discover-Leadership-Story/dp/B0FBZ39H8Y/   Email Dr. Goff: jaime@drjaimegoff.com       

Episode recap     In this episode, I sat down with Dr. Martin Dubin — a clinical psychologist turned entrepreneur and executive coach — to unpack the blind spots that quietly sabotage leaders. Marty’s journey from therapy rooms to boardrooms shaped his book Blindspotting, where he helps executives see what they can’t see about themselves. We dug into why even the smartest leaders miss their own patterns, how to build self-awareness without beating yourself up, and why humility and small shifts matter more than big transformations.    Key Insights:  Blind spots aren’t flaws — they’re unseen patterns. Marty explained how our minds naturally focus on familiar territory, leaving some behaviors invisible to us. Six areas to watch: identity, motives, traits, emotions, intellect, and behavior — all interconnected layers that shape how leaders show up.  Awareness beats overhaul. Growth happens through small, intentional adjustments, not massive self-reinventions.  Humility is the gateway to insight. The best leaders don’t try to be perfect — they stay curious about what they might be missing.  Self-awareness drives effectiveness. Understanding your motives and emotional triggers helps you lead with more clarity, empathy, and confidence.  BIO:   Martin Dubin is a clinical psychologist, serial entrepreneur, business coach, and adviser to C-suite executives and Silicon Valley entrepreneurs. He founded several companies, including a multimillion-dollar health care company where he also served as CEO. A former coach at the Center for Creative Leadership and a partner at talent firm RHR International, he worked directly with hundreds of C-suite senior executives from Fortune 500 companies and with Silicon Valley venture capital firms and their portfolio companies.    Quotes:   “Self-awareness is the single most important tool of your leadership.” “You are the tool of your leadership, so the better you know yourself, the better you lead.” “Your greatest strength becomes a blind spot the moment you overdo it.” “Stress narrows your motives, so you default to survival instead of wise leadership.” “Real change in leaders comes from small tweaks, not dramatic transformation.”    Takeaways:  Name your core strengths, then ask what happens when you are too much of that strength to uncover likely blind spots. Notice when your role has changed but your identity has not and ask if you are still leading like your old job. Pay attention to emotional overreactions after meetings; they are clues to motives or values you may not fully understand. Stop trying to be the smartest person in the room and start asking more questions to draw out the intelligence of your team. Focus on small, intentional behavioral changes rather than chasing a complete personal transformation.    Timestamps:    [00:00] Marcel’s intro: why what used to work in leadership suddenly stops working [02:40] Marty’s story from clinical psychologist to entrepreneur to executive coach  [07:20] The spark behind Blind Spotting and why entrepreneurs reveal raw blind spots  [09:06] Why is it so hard for leaders to see their own blind spots  [11:31] The six blind spot areas and the “target” model are explained  [13:15] Identity blind spots and the pain of transitioning into new roles  [16:12] Traits, emotions, and intellect as hard-to-change parts of our wiring  [20:37] Emotional blind spots, EQ, and using feelings strategically at work  [22:41] Different kinds of intellect and how over-reliance on smarts backfires  [27:49] Motives at the center: power, achievement, affiliation, and values  [32:30] How stress distorts motives and narrows our leadership choices  [33:16] A simple exercise to find blind spots by adding “too” to your strengths  [34:17] Why sustainable growth comes from small behavioral tweaks, not wholesale reinvention  [35:13] Speed round: what makes Marty smile, big life lessons, and hopes for the future  [37:45] Leading with love by accepting yourself and using what you have  [38:16] Final takeaway: start somewhere small and let self-awareness do its work    Conclusion:    This conversation reminds us that leadership is fundamentally an inside job. Blind spots are not signs of failure but evidence that we are human, shaped by patterns, histories, and motives we do not always see. By understanding identity shifts, naming our traits and emotional patterns, and getting honest about what truly drives us, we gain more choice in how we show up. Rather than chasing dramatic transformation, Marty urges leaders to embrace small, focused behavioral changes—asking more questions, listening longer, or dialing down an overused strength. Over time, those small tweaks compound into deeper authenticity, healthier relationships, and more effective, human-centered leadership.    Links/Resources:  Website: https://www.martindubin.com/    Blind Spotting assessment and resources: https://www.blindspotting.com/   Book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DRZFK8J6?tag=bk00010a-20&th=1&psc=1&geniuslink=true  

Today’s episode is made possible by TerraSlate. TerraSlate Waterproof Paper is waterproof, rip-proof, and recyclable — no more laminating sheets, and no more wasted paper. TerraSlate prints through any standard laser printer and can be written on with a regular ballpoint pen. Powered by 100% renewable energy and recently named a Denver Broncos Small Business Partner, TerraSlate combines durability with sustainability. From ocean dives to mountain summits, it’s trusted by the NFL, the U.S. military, and Michelin-starred restaurants to perform when nothing else does. If your work matters, make it last.  Visit TerraSlate.com and make your ideas indestructible.    Episode Recap:  In this Love in Action episode, Marcel sits down with neuroscientist and author Dr. Paul Zak to unpack what truly makes us happy—and how love, connection, and neuroscience intersect to create thriving workplaces and healthier lives. Drawing on research from The Little Book of Happiness and his company, Immersion Neuroscience, Zak reveals how happiness isn’t just a feeling—it’s a measurable state shaped by our relationships, daily choices, and leadership behaviors.   Bio:   Paul Zak is a distinguished university professor at Claremont Graduate University. His research has taken him from the Pentagon to Fortune 50 boardrooms to the rainforest of Papua New Guinea. He is ranked among the top 0.3 percent of most cited scientists, with over 200 published research articles. His lab and company, Immersion Neuroscience, help people live longer, happier, and healthier lives.    Quotes:  "Vulnerability is one of the best ways to build bonds with people, whether in your family, your circle of friends, or your professional team and organization. Vulnerability teaches them that you are approachable and that you need others to help you develop answers and embrace feedback." "The more you go in an organization, the more people you lead, the more you become a role model. You're also visible as a role model to people you do not interact with daily, both inside and outside your organization."  "If the map differs from the terrain, go with the terrain. This means assessing the situation in real time, getting inputs from every team member on that special assignment, and making a new plan, which hopefully is a winning plan." Takeaways: ·Reflect on Your Leadership Style: Take 10 minutes to write down how you respond to mistakes and feedback. Are you open to vulnerability, or do you default to defensiveness? Identify one behavior you can adjust to build trust with your team. ·  Build Genuine Connections: Schedule one conversation this week with a team member to learn their personal or professional story. Ask questions that show you care about their perspective and challenges. ·Challenge Long-Held Beliefs: Identify one assumption you rely on when making decisions. Ask yourself, “What if this isn’t true?” and explore how adapting your approach could improve outcomes.  Practice “Fearless Learning”: Pick a recent setback and outline what went wrong without assigning blame. Write down one concrete action to improve your approach next time. Create a Commitment Plan: Draft a one-page outline with three areas to focus on: how you’ll lead yourself, lead your team, and lead your organization. Revisit it regularly to stay aligned with your goals. Timestamps: [00:00] Introduction & Why Happiness Matters [04:00] The Science Behind Social Connection [08:00] Redefining Happiness for Introverts [10:00] The 45 Cardinal Virtues Explained [12:00] The Six App and Measuring Key Moments [17:00] How the Brain Creates Happiness [19:00] Longevity and Social Bonds [20:00] Love vs. Fear in Leadership [24:00] Oxytocin, Trust, and Connection [30:00] Healing Division Through Empathy [33:00] Emotional Fitness and Therapy [36:00] Building Happy, Sustainable Organizations [38:00] Personal Lessons & Reflections [44:00] Leading with Love and Practical Kindness [45:00] Final Takeaways & Resources   Conclusion: To thrive in today’s demanding world, leaders must embrace human-centric leadership. Great leadership starts with self-awareness and a commitment to personal growth. By fostering empathy, encouraging open feedback, and seeing vulnerability as a strength, leaders create environments where teams feel valued and empowered. Practicing fearless learning—letting go of rigid assumptions—enables leaders to adapt and guide their organizations through uncertainty. Ultimately, the most effective leaders prioritize authentic relationships, inclusion, and continuous growth, ensuring their teams can innovate, collaborate, and succeed while building cultures that endure beyond immediate challenges.   Links/Resources: Website: https://www.getimmersion.com/  Download the SIX app here: https://your6.com/  Book: https://a.co/d/9IIYijt  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-j-zak-91123510/