Flourishing Leaders Podcast

What if the most powerful lever for culture change isn’t policy or perks—but dignity?When leaders treat dignity as non-negotiable (and know the difference between dignity and respect), conflict de-escalates, trust returns, and people bring their best. In this episode, Dr. Scott Parsons and Jason Viyar chat with Harvard’s Dr. Donna Hicks, international conflict facilitator and author of Dignity and Leading with Dignity, shares a clear, practical roadmap for building teams and institutions where everybody truly matters.In this conversation, you’ll learn:The crucial distinction: dignity (inherent worth) vs respect (earned) and why it transforms how you lead and resolve conflict.How empathy, story, and acknowledgment repair moral injuries and rebuild trust.Donna’s Ten Elements of Dignity—what they look like in everyday leadership (identity, recognition, acknowledgment, inclusion, safety, fairness/equity, independence, understanding, benefit of the doubt, accountability).How to apologize well (intention vs impact), invite feedback on your blind spots, and create psychological safety.Why Archbishop Desmond Tutu’s charge—no one can take your dignity—is both liberating and practical for leaders.Timestamps00:00 Welcome & Donna’s definition of a flourishing leader05:30 The “human dimension” of conflict—from Harvard to high-stakes diplomacy14:40 Dignity ≠ respect; restoring empathy when it vanishes24:10 The Ten Elements of Dignity in everyday leadership36:30 Apology, accountability, and rebuilding trust44:45 Psychological safety and culture change52:20 “No one can take your dignity”—Tutu’s charge56:30 Final takeaways & next stepsAbout our guest Donna Hicks, PhD is an Associate at Harvard’s Weatherhead Center for International Affairs; former Deputy Director of the Program on International Conflict Analysis and Resolution; and author of Dignity and Leading with Dignity. She has facilitated dialogues in conflicts across the Middle East, Northern Ireland, Sri Lanka, Colombia, Cuba, Libya, and Syria, and co-facilitated the BBC series Facing the Truth with Archbishop Desmond Tutu.Resources mentionedDignity: Its Essential Role in Resolving Conflict — Donna HicksLeading with Dignity: How to Create a Culture That Brings Out the Best in People — Donna HicksBBC’s Facing the Truth (with Archbishop Desmond Tutu)If this episode resonates Share it with a leader navigating conflict or culture change, and subscribe for future conversations on character, practical wisdom, and flourishing at work and in your relationships.Thank you for listening to the Flourishing Leaders Podcast! Hosted by Dr. Scott Parsons, this podcast explores how character, virtue, wisdom, and purpose can shape a more flourishing life and leadership journey. Learn more at: Flourishing Leaders AcademySubscribe & Follow: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google | YouTube Share this episode with someone who’s ready to lead with integrity and flourish in every domain of life. Connect with Scott: LinkedIn | Scott@FlourishingLeaders.us Flourish with us—because leadership rooted in character changes everything.

What if flourishing leadership isn’t something we achieve, but something we practice — moment by moment — through intention, vulnerability, and wisdom?In this inspiring conversation, Dr. Scott Parsons sits down with Dr. Kimara Ellefson — National Director of Strategy & Partnerships at the Kern National Network for Flourishing in Health — and explores how leaders can cultivate flourishing across healthcare systems by first cultivating it within themselves.Together they explore:• Flourishing leadership as knowing who we are — and who we’re becoming • Why leaders must “nourish their own souls” before caring for others • Character, caring, and practical wisdom as foundations for thriving cultures • Emotional intelligence, relational influence, and the courage to pause • Feminist relational theory and the power of community in leadership • Ecosystem-wide flourishing — moving beyond burnout and learned helplessness • The role of reflection, intentional habits, and shared humanity in healthcare • How small “pauses” create space for practical wisdom and better decisions • Why our leaders may impact our health as much as — or more than — our doctorsKimara brings extraordinary clarity and compassion to leadership in healthcare — inviting us to rethink how we support healers, cultivate culture, and build systems where everyone can flourish.This episode is for leaders in medicine, organizational development, education — and anyone who believes that leadership is, at its heart, a relational and moral act.Learn more about the important work of the KNN by visiting The Kern National Network for Flourishing in Health. Thank you for listening to the Flourishing Leaders Podcast! Hosted by Dr. Scott Parsons, this podcast explores how character, virtue, wisdom, and purpose can shape a more flourishing life and leadership journey. Learn more at: Flourishing Leaders AcademySubscribe & Follow: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google | YouTube Share this episode with someone who’s ready to lead with integrity and flourish in every domain of life. Connect with Scott: LinkedIn | Scott@FlourishingLeaders.us Flourish with us—because leadership rooted in character changes everything.

What does flourishing leadership look like when the mission is to serve those who’ve sacrificed for us all?In this deeply moving conversation, Dr. Scott Parsons and Jason Viyar sit down with Kate McCauley, President and CEO of Wounded Warriors Family Support — one of America’s most respected veterans’ organizations.Kate shares her remarkable journey from Nebraska real estate agent to national nonprofit leader — a story of humility, purpose, and fierce dedication to those who have borne the battle. Together, they explore:The evolution of Wounded Warriors Family Support from basement beginnings to a four-star national charityHow compassion, accountability, and transparency became the foundation of its cultureThe life-changing impact of programs like Mobility is Freedom and the upcoming Jason Dunham HouseThe emotional toll and profound meaning of serving veterans and their familiesHow purpose and well-being intertwine in leadership that healsKate’s story is a testament to grace under pressure and purpose in service — a reminder that leadership rooted in empathy can change lives.🎧 Listen now on Apple, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.Thank you for listening to the Flourishing Leaders Podcast! Hosted by Dr. Scott Parsons, this podcast explores how character, virtue, wisdom, and purpose can shape a more flourishing life and leadership journey. Learn more at: Flourishing Leaders AcademySubscribe & Follow: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google | YouTube Share this episode with someone who’s ready to lead with integrity and flourish in every domain of life. Connect with Scott: LinkedIn | Scott@FlourishingLeaders.us Flourish with us—because leadership rooted in character changes everything.

What happens when wellbeing becomes the heart of education — not an add-on, but a way of life? In this uplifting episode, Justin Robinson — Co-founder of The Wellbeing Distillery and former Director of the Institute of Positive Education at Geelong Grammar School — joins Dr. Scott Parsons and Jason Viyar for an inspiring exploration of leadership, wellbeing, and human flourishing.Together they trace the story of how positive psychology and positive education transformed one of the world’s leading schools — and how those same ideas continue to ripple outward through teachers, parents, and leaders worldwide.Justin shares the origin of The Wellbeing Distillery, a venture that “distills the science” of wellbeing into everyday practice, and his new reflective project, My Manifesto, helping individuals and teams clarify purpose and live with alignment.He also introduces the Wellbeing Operating System — a practical, whole-school framework that integrates leaders, educators, students, and families into a shared culture of care and contribution.This episode is a masterclass in hope, humility, and human connection — a reminder that flourishing begins not with perfection, but with the courage to grow together.Guest: Justin Robinson — Honorary Fellow at the University of Melbourne, global board member and treasurer of the International Positive Education Network (IPEN), co-founder of The Wellbeing Distillery, and co-author of My Manifesto.Learn more about Justin’s incredible work at The Wellbeing Distillery. Learn more about the important work of IPEN by visiting The International Positive Education Network. To embark on an extraordinary journey of self-discovery, visit My Manifesto. Resources from the Positive Education Enhanced Curriculum (PEEC), which was developed at Geelong Grammar School in Victoria, Australia, are available  through the Institute of Positive Education.  Thank you for listening to the Flourishing Leaders Podcast! Hosted by Dr. Scott Parsons, this podcast explores how character, virtue, wisdom, and purpose can shape a more flourishing life and leadership journey. Learn more at: Flourishing Leaders AcademySubscribe & Follow: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google | YouTube Share this episode with someone who’s ready to lead with integrity and flourish in every domain of life. Connect with Scott: LinkedIn | Scott@FlourishingLeaders.us Flourish with us—because leadership rooted in character changes everything.

How can leaders turn polarization into possibility — and help people come together to write a hopeful, flourishing future? In this inspiring episode of The Flourishing Leaders Podcast, Dr. Scott Parsons is joined by Brandyn Keating, CEO and Co-Founder of YOUnify, an organization working to reduce political polarization and cultural divisions of all kinds and accelerate progress on humanity’s shared challenges.A civic innovator, political strategist, and contributing author in the Oxford University Press book Leadership for Flourishing, Brandyn shares her journey from leading presidential campaigns to pioneering the Global Flourishing Goals — a vision for human and planetary thriving that connects leadership, policy, and community transformation.Together, Scott and Brandyn explore:What it means to be a flourishing leaderHow energy management and well-being sustain effective leadershipThe origins and purpose of YOUnifyHow the Global Flourishing Goals can align people, policy, and purposeThe Write the Future campaign — and how you can get involvedTune in to discover practical tools for aligning energy, purpose, and collaboration across differences — and learn how to be part of the movement toward a more flourishing world. 🌎💡 Join the conversation and help build a flourishing future at YOUnify.org and on social media @WeAreYoUnify. ✨To connect with the Write the Future campaign, email them at writehefuture@younify.org.Thank you for listening to the Flourishing Leaders Podcast! Hosted by Dr. Scott Parsons, this podcast explores how character, virtue, wisdom, and purpose can shape a more flourishing life and leadership journey. Learn more at: Flourishing Leaders AcademySubscribe & Follow: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google | YouTube Share this episode with someone who’s ready to lead with integrity and flourish in every domain of life. Connect with Scott: LinkedIn | Scott@FlourishingLeaders.us Flourish with us—because leadership rooted in character changes everything.

Dr. Michael Lamb, F.M. Kirby Foundation Chair of Leadership and Character at Wake Forest University, dives into what it means to be a flourishing leader. He discusses the importance of hope as a vital virtue in times of division. Michael highlights how humanities can transform leadership education, and he explores Iris Murdoch’s idea of art as a means to transcend self-centeredness. The conversation also unveils seven strategies for fostering virtue and the impact of the Educating Character Initiative connecting numerous individuals and institutions.

What happens when one of the world’s leading strategy scholars turns her attention to character? In this fascinating conversation, Professor Mary Crossan—Distinguished University Professor and Professor of Strategic Leadership at Ivey Business School—joins Dr. Scott Parsons to explore why character is the essential foundation of flourishing leadership.Mary shares the story of how the global financial crisis shifted her focus toward character, the challenges of integrating virtues into organizations, and why character is the missing link in building psychological safety, shaping culture, and driving strategy.They discuss the interplay of virtues like justice and forgiveness, the daily choices that define us, and Mary’s latest projects—including a children’s book on character co-authored with her daughter for her grandson.This is a deep and inspiring episode that connects cutting-edge research with practical wisdom for leaders at every level.Topics include:Why character matters more than ever in organizationsHow character shapes psychological safety and cultureJustice, forgiveness, and virtue ethics in leadershipMary’s obituary exercise and living fully nowThe “Character Eats Culture for Breakfast” frameworkWriting a children’s book on characterThank you for listening to the Flourishing Leaders Podcast! Hosted by Dr. Scott Parsons, this podcast explores how character, virtue, wisdom, and purpose can shape a more flourishing life and leadership journey. Learn more at: Flourishing Leaders AcademySubscribe & Follow: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google | YouTube Share this episode with someone who’s ready to lead with integrity and flourish in every domain of life. Connect with Scott: LinkedIn | Scott@FlourishingLeaders.us Flourish with us—because leadership rooted in character changes everything.

What does it really mean to win? And how can leaders build cultures that prioritize purpose, connection, and continuous growth over short-term success?In this episode of the Flourishing Leaders Podcast, host Dr. Scott Parsons is joined by Dr. Cath Bishop—Olympic silver medalist, World Champion rower, former British diplomat, leadership consultant, and author of The Long Win.Drawing from her experiences in elite sport, international diplomacy, and organizational leadership, Cath challenges us to rethink traditional measures of success. She introduces her powerful framework of the three Cs—Clarity, Constant Learning, and Connection—and explores how leaders can cultivate flourishing cultures in business, sport, and education.Together, Scott and Cath discuss:Why “winning” is too often defined too narrowly—and how to pursue the long win.The role of psychological safety and moral courage in shaping healthy organizational cultures.Lessons from Cath’s work across sport, business, and beyond.Insights from her Guardian articles on sport, purpose, and flourishing.The importance of community in her leadership roles with the Marlow Rowing Club and Henley Royal Regatta.Cath’s insights remind us that true success is measured not by medals, titles, or quick wins, but by the lasting impact we have on people and the environments we help shape.👉 Learn more about Cath’s work at cathbishop.com and thelongwin.com.🎧 Subscribe to the Flourishing Leaders Podcast for more conversations with inspiring leaders across sport, business, philosophy, and education.Thank you for listening to the Flourishing Leaders Podcast! Hosted by Dr. Scott Parsons, this podcast explores how character, virtue, wisdom, and purpose can shape a more flourishing life and leadership journey. Learn more at: Flourishing Leaders AcademySubscribe & Follow: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google | YouTube Share this episode with someone who’s ready to lead with integrity and flourish in every domain of life. Connect with Scott: LinkedIn | Scott@FlourishingLeaders.us Flourish with us—because leadership rooted in character changes everything.

How does dignity transform workplaces into spaces where everybody truly matters?In this inspiring conversation, Dr. Scott Parsons and co-host Jason Viyar sit down with David Pickersgill, Senior Outreach Program Leader at Barry-Wehmiller and key leader within the Humanistic Leadership Academy.David shares how Barry-Wehmiller’s culture of care has been shaped by the principle that “everybody matters” — a vision reinforced by his collaboration with dignity expert Donna Hicks. Together, they explore the seven steps to building a dignity-based culture, the power of recognition, and how authentic listening fosters inclusion and trust.The conversation also highlights Barry-Wehmiller’s outreach to universities and MBA programs, equipping the next generation of leaders with the skills and courage to care. David reflects on authenticity, resilience, and the importance of “small things with great love” as essential practices of flourishing leadership.Whether you’re leading an organization, teaching in higher education, or simply seeking to live more authentically, this episode will challenge and inspire you to embrace dignity, inclusion, and care as cornerstones of true leadership.Learn more about David’s and Barry-Wehmiller’s work, visit the Humanistic Leadership Academy.Connect with David on LinkedIn or through email. Thank you for listening to the Flourishing Leaders Podcast! Hosted by Dr. Scott Parsons, this podcast explores how character, virtue, wisdom, and purpose can shape a more flourishing life and leadership journey. Learn more at: Flourishing Leaders AcademySubscribe & Follow: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google | YouTube Share this episode with someone who’s ready to lead with integrity and flourish in every domain of life. Connect with Scott: LinkedIn | Scott@FlourishingLeaders.us Flourish with us—because leadership rooted in character changes everything.

How does anti-fragility fuel flourishing when life takes an unexpected turn? In this inspiring episode of the Flourishing Leaders Podcast, Dr. Scott Parsons is joined by returning co-host Jason Viyar for a powerful conversation with Tom Gaymor—former professional racing driver turned international broadcaster and commentator for Formula 1, IndyCar, the Olympics, Premiership Rugby, and global sport.Tom’s journey is extraordinary. After a devastating crash that left him with a broken back, Tom transformed his path from the driver’s seat to the commentary box. Along the way, he’s learned profound lessons about resilience, vulnerability, and anti-fragility — lessons that extend far beyond sport.Today, Tom is one of the most recognized voices in motorsport, leading F1 TV coverage, anchoring Sky Sports F1’s IndyCar programming, and bringing insight to some of the world’s greatest sporting events. Beyond the broadcast booth, Tom is a mentor, consultant, and talent developer who has worked with elite athletes, teams, and organizations to unlock performance and resilience. His journey is a living example of perseverance, passion, and practical wisdom in action.In this conversation, Tom shares:His journey from motorsport to becoming a global voice in sport.How failure, adversity, and vulnerability can become strengths.What it means to create trusted spaces and bring your whole self to leadership.The importance of service — from supporting the Metropolitan Police to charities like Divert London and the National Foundation for Retired Service Animals.How true performance begins with the human being, not just the outcome.Whether you’re leading a team, building resilience, or navigating personal change, Tom’s story offers a masterclass in flourishing leadership in action. Join us as we explore themes of anti-fragility, flourishing through adversity, performance under pressure, and finding new purpose when life forces a change of course. Tune in and discover why flourishing leaders embrace both triumph and failure as fuel for growth.Thank you for listening to the Flourishing Leaders Podcast! Hosted by Dr. Scott Parsons, this podcast explores how character, virtue, wisdom, and purpose can shape a more flourishing life and leadership journey. Learn more at: Flourishing Leaders AcademySubscribe & Follow: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Google | YouTube Share this episode with someone who’s ready to lead with integrity and flourish in every domain of life. Connect with Scott: LinkedIn | Scott@FlourishingLeaders.us Flourish with us—because leadership rooted in character changes everything.