The Leadership Foundry Podcast

If you’ve caught recent episodes of the Leadership Foundry Podcast, you’ve likely picked up on a common theme: complexity vs. simplicity. Frank Blake, former chairman and CEO of The Home Depot noted that the best leaders “pull complexity up and push simplicity down.” Graciela Chadwick, COO of Crumbl Cookies, explained the balance between relationships and results, highlighting that any repeatable process must be clear and concise. On today’s episode, co-host Brandon Smith takes a deep dive into these concepts and shares some additional ways you as a leader can implement them.   

Among tasks and teams, leaders have an overall essential balance that must be maintained and that balance comes in the form of relationships vs. results. How can leaders achieve this balance? Crumbl Cookies COO, Graciela Chadwick, shares from her extensive experience working with franchisees on this edition of the podcast. Listen in for two key factors crucial for leaders in fostering connections within their teams.

We’ve got another treat for you “from the vault” for this week’s episode of the Leadership Foundry Podcast! This one features Brandon's daughter, Abby Smith. Recorded just a few short years ago, their conversation centers around generational communication in the workplace. Bridging the gap between generations isn't just a nicety; it's a necessity. Collaboration among different age groups fosters a vibrant exchange of ideas, knowledge sharing, and innovation. Listen in for Brandon and Abby's tips which still ring true today! 

In the spirit of Thanksgiving, we’re revisiting one of our favorite episodes “from the vault”! Get into the attitude of gratitude with hosts, Brandon Smith and Randy Hain as we examine RAPKG: Random Acts of Praise, Kindness and Gratitude. Listen in for ways leaders can communicate thankfulness in the workplace… and at home. 

We’re excited to welcome former The Home Depot, Chairman and CEO, Frank Blake, on this episode of the podcast. Frank reminds us: As CEO - you’re at the bottom and not at the top. Listen to this insightful conversation as he shares why (and how) the best leaders “pull complexity up and push simplicity down.”

There's a lot happening around the world and tensions are high. In this "Leadership Challenges" episode, Brandon addresses the key components of effective communication and highlights what leaders should be mindful of when navigating emotions and driving focus in their roles.

In part two of our Leadership Challenges podcast episode, co-host Brandon Smith tackles two more pressing issues submitted by our listeners and other executives. You'll hear how to deal with a narcissistic boss and ways to implement the “Author vs. Editor” approach to empowering your team so you can move from working “in” the business to working “on” the business. 

Leocadia Zak is President of Agnes Scott College, a college ranked #1 in innovation for six consecutive years. In this edition of the podcast, co-host Brandon Smith talks with President Zak about the importance of relationships and how to make innovation a cultural way of living. Listen in as President Zak imparts valuable insights that can be applied by leaders across various domains.

On this special edition of the show, co-founder and podcast co-host, Brandon Smith, tackles challenges to questions received from listeners and fellow executives. What are the greatest leadership challenges you’re facing as we make our way to the end of 2023? Listen in for insights on protecting your credibility and ways to build trust quickly.   

We’re excited to welcome back author, Sam Horn, on today’s Leadership Foundry Podcast. She and co-host, Brandon Smith, discuss quips from her new book, “Talking on Eggshells.” It’s a great discussion for leaders looking to inspire their teams!