What if you could predict who will buy, who will click—or even who might lie or die? In this episode, Ben Owden sits down with Dr. Eric Siegel founder of Machine Learning Week, a globally recognized expert on demystifying machine learning and author of two landmark books, Predictive Analytics and The AI Playbook, Dr. Siegel.They cut through the hype of “AI” to reveal how predictive analytics (the real engine behind so many “AI” claims) is transforming day-to-day business operations—from fraud detection and targeted marketing to life-saving medical breakthroughs. Dr. Siegel explains why machine learning doesn’t grant magical crystal-ball power, yet still delivers massive value by accurately tipping the odds at scale. Together, they explore how this technology can help build a world that our kids—indeed, all of us—can thrive in, if we apply it ethically and responsibly.Whether you’re a data scientist, a tech-savvy entrepreneur, or just curious about AI’s practical impact, this conversation will recalibrate how you see machine learning. Discover why some projects succeed while others fizzle out, how real machine learning differs from inflated notions of “intelligent machines,” and why the secret lies in collaboration, probabilities, and concrete, operational goals—not grandiose futurism.Get a copy of The AI PlaybookImportant Links*Join Thrive in the Middle Today!*Book WhyLead to Train Your Teams*Explore Our ServicesSocial Media*Ben Owden's LinkedIn*Ben Owden's Twitter 

What if everything you thought you knew about strategy was wrong—or at least incomplete? In this eye-opening episode, Ben Owden sits down with Felix Oberholzer-Gee, Harvard Business School’s Andreas Andersen Professor of Business Administration and the author of Better, Simpler Strategy: A Value-Based Guide to Exceptional Performance. Renowned for his award-winning teaching and cutting-edge research, Felix distills strategy down to its essence: value creation for customers, employees, and partners.Discover why some of the biggest buzzwords in business—from the metaverse to cryptocurrencies—may not be worth your organization’s time. Felix explains how focusing on “willingness to pay” and “willingness to sell” helps you weed out pointless projects and, instead, channel resources into efforts that truly move the needle. Learn how timeless principles of value creation can apply to everything from tech innovations like AI to employee engagement—and even your personal life.This conversation offers a refreshing antidote to today’s obsession with “chasing trends,” underscoring that competitive advantage stems from relentlessly improving what people love about your offering—and how employees experience their work. Tune in to rethink how you pick your projects, price your products, and reward your people.Get a Copy of Dr. Felix's book Better, Simpler StrategyImportant Links*Join Thrive in the Middle Today!*Book WhyLead to Train Your Teams*Explore Our ServicesSocial Media*Ben Owden's LinkedIn*Ben Owden's Twitter 

How do we create a world where our children—and all of us—can truly thrive? In this episode, Ben Owden sits down with Dr. Monica Sharma, a physician, epidemiologist, and former senior leader at the United Nations, whose groundbreaking work in Radical Transformational Leadership helps people tackle global challenges by harnessing their own inner capacities. Drawing from decades of experience across continents, Dr. Sharma explains how universal values—like dignity, equity, and compassion—can disrupt exploitative systems and foster real, systemic change.She reveals how her Conscious Full-Spectrum Response model simultaneously solves problems, transforms unworkable norms, and taps into our innate human wisdom. If you’re ready to stop applying mere band-aids and start building a society you’d be proud to pass on to your kids, this conversation offers deep insights and actionable steps. Discover why Dr. Sharma believes radical transformation is “easy,” how to align your values with your actions, and what it really takes to spark sustainable, large-scale shifts—right where you are.Get a Copy of Radical Transformational LeadershipImportant Links*Join Thrive in the Middle Today!*Book WhyLead to Train Your Teams*Explore Our ServicesSocial Media*Ben Owden's LinkedIn*Ben Owden's Twitter 

Ever felt your heart sink when someone says, “I have some feedback for you”? You’re not alone. In this insightful episode, I chat with Jason Rosoff, co-founder of Radical Candor, about the gripping fear and anxiety that often hijack feedback and performance conversations.Jason has helped organizations of every size—from scrappy startups to Fortune 100 heavyweights—create honest, human-centered cultures. Drawing on both brain science and real-world success stories. Jason offers practical tips on moving from avoidance and dread to candor and collaboration.We explore:Why feedback sparks so much anxiety—and how to keep conversations future-focusedIntent vs. content: focusing on the relationship outcome, not just the mistakeHow leaders can “lay down their power” and invite genuine, two-way dialogueThe surprising power of small, frequent check-ins over staged, high-pressure reviewsConfronting in-group vs. out-group bias so everyone—from underrepresented employees to introverts—gets the feedback they needLearn More About Jaon and his workImportant Links*Join Thrive in the Middle Today!*Book WhyLead to Train Your Teams*Explore Our ServicesSocial Media*Ben Owden's LinkedIn*Ben Owden's Twitter 

In a riveting chat with Ben Owden, Dr. Peter Fader, a Wharton professor and co-founder of a predictive analytics firm, dives deep into customer centricity. He debunks the myth that all customers are equal and stresses the importance of focusing on high-value customers for sustainable growth. Peter reveals insights into measuring customer lifetime value without drowning in data and shares strategies for transforming customer acquisition. His perspectives on prioritizing quality over quantity can reshape any business approach.

Ben Owden in a conversation with Dr. Simone Ahuja, best-selling author, keynote speaker, and CEO of Blood Orange, a global innovation strategy firm. Simone talks about Jugaad innovation, a frugal and flexible approach to problem-solving under constraints. She shares how embracing scarcity can actually fuel creativity and drive meaningful innovation from within organizations. Learn about intrapreneurship and practical strategies to overcome organizational resistance, align teams with a Massive Transformative Purpose (MTP), and unlock your team's creative potential. If you're ready to turn limited resources into significant breakthroughs, this episode is a must-listen!Get in touch with Dr. SimoneFollow Dr. Simone on LinkedInImportant Links*Join Thrive in the Middle Today!*Book WhyLead to Train Your Teams*Explore Our ServicesSocial Media*Ben Owden's LinkedIn*Ben Owden's Twitter 

Ben Owden engages in a conversation with Stacy Spikes, the visionary co-founder of MoviePass and author of "Black Founder: The Hidden Power of Being an Outsider." Stacy's journey is a masterclass in turning failures into stepping stones and embracing the unique advantages of being an outsider.From working alongside entertainment icons like Stevie Wonder, Spike Lee, and Eddie Murphy to reinventing himself from a junior executive to a tech CEO, Stacy shares how he defied expectations and disrupted the status quo. He opens up about pivotal moments—like when a personal setback forced him to "burn his Plan B" and fully commit to his dreams.Discover how Stacy harnessed courage, ownership, and boldness to navigate the highs and lows of entrepreneurship. He delves into the founding of MoviePass, its meteoric rise and public collapse, and why he decided to reclaim and relaunch the company despite the challenges.If you've ever felt like an outsider or faced obstacles that seemed insurmountable, this episode is packed with actionable insights and inspiring stories. Learn how to own your failures, embrace your unique perspective, and turn isolation into innovation. Important Links*Join Thrive in the Middle Today!*Book WhyLead to Train Your Teams*Explore Our ServicesStacy Spike's WebsiteStacy Spike's Time Magazine FeatureSocial Media*Ben Owden's LinkedIn*Ben Owden's Twitter 

Join host Ben Owden as he engages in a transformative conversation with Janet M. Harvey, a globally recognized leader in the coaching industry and author of "From Tension to Transformation: A Leader's Guide to Generative Change." Discover how embracing discomfort and leaning into tension can unlock your hidden leadership potential. Janet explores how to turn your inner critic into your greatest ally, break free from limiting labels, and overcome fears that hold you back. If you've ever felt stuck, unfulfilled, or constrained by others' opinions, this episode offers profound insights and practical strategies to spark authentic growth and unleash your full potential. Don't miss this chance to learn how to transform tension into a powerful catalyst for personal and professional development.Important Links*Join Thrive in the Middle Today!*Book WhyLead to Train Your Teams*Explore Our ServicesJanet's Book, From Tension to TransformationGet in touch with JanetSocial Media*Ben Owden's LinkedIn*Ben Owden's Twitter 

Host Ben Owden engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Dr. Soumya Swaminathan, a renowned pediatric leader and former WHO Chief Scientist. They explore the interconnected relationship between health and climate change and the role of transformative leadership in addressing these complex challenges.The conversation explores the need for innovative thinking, diversity of thought, and collaboration to tackle these issues. Dr. Swaminathan shares insights from her career, stressing the importance of humility, empathy, and listening to affected communities in transformative leadership. She also addresses the challenges of misinformation and the necessity of public health communication.Ben Owden speaks with Dr. Muthoni Ntonjira, Managing Director and Health Systems District Leader for Philips East Africa. They explore the transformative impact of AI on healthcare, emphasizing the need for inclusivity and equity. Dr. Ntonjira shares her journey from a medical officer to a leader in health tech, highlighting the importance of diverse data sets in AI development and the critical role of women in decision-making positions. She discusses overcoming imposter syndrome, the significance of mentorship, and the necessity of male allyship to foster a supportive environment for women in tech. Important Links*Join Thrive in the Middle Today! *Book WhyLead to Train Your Teams*Explore Our ServicesSocial Media*Ben Owden's LinkedIn*Ben Owden's Twitter 

Ben Owden talks with Dr. Samu Dube, the Executive Director of FP2030.  Dr. Dube shares her insights on the intrinsic potential within everyone to be extraordinary, highlighting the importance of intentionality and continuous improvement. She recounts her personal journey, drawing inspiration from her grandmother and stressing the significance of being uncomfortable with comfort to drive progress.The discussion explores the systemic issues of diversity and inclusion, with Dr. Dube underscoring the necessity of building agency among women leaders and creating supportive environments. She also addresses the superficiality of tokenism in diversity efforts and advocates for meaningful inclusion through policy changes and quotas.Abosede Alimi (George-Ogan), the founder of the Women in Leadership Advancement Network. Abosede shares her journey of inspiring gender-balanced leadership across various sectors, emphasizing the transformative outcomes when women take the lead. The discussion explores the importance of confidence, overcoming internalized biases, and the significance of resilience and adaptability in advancing women in leadership, particularly in healthcareImportant Links*Join Thrive in the Middle Today! *Book WhyLead to Train Your Teams*Explore Our ServicesSocial Media *Ben Owden's LinkedIn*Ben Owden's Twitter