Leadovation

About Ken Schmidt:Ken Schmidt is one of the business world’s most in-demand executive advisors and speakers, driven by the acclaim he earned leading Harley-Davidson Motor Company’s against-all-odds turnaround in the 1990s from the brink of financial ruin to global dominance. He’s the author of Make Some Noise: The Unconventional Road to Dominance, the host of the Tailgating with Geniuses podcast, and co-founder of Torque Sessions Leadership Training. Ken’s success, unconventional business approach, and playful outspokenness led him to consulting assignments with household-name brands and transformed him into a highly requested speaker with more than 1,200 keynotes presented globally to date. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Ken Schmidt discuss:Human-centered brand differentiationEmotional connection as a competitive edgeReframing traditional marketing strategiesBusiness transformation through customer feedbackThe power of language in brand identity Key Takeaways:Harley-Davidson’s resurgence came from abandoning a product-focused mindset and embracing a strategy centered on emotional connection, human interaction, and delivering consistent delight.By directly asking riders one powerful question—“What do we have to change on this motorcycle to convince you to buy it?”—Harley created a fast, impactful loop between feedback and product innovation.The company aligned its brand around three key questions—what are people saying about us, what do we want them to say, and what are we doing to get them to say it—shaping its message and behavior for lasting impact.Harley proved real customer loyalty is built not on specs or price, but on small, repeated experiences that make people feel seen, valued, and emotionally tied to the brand. "What makes a business attractive is when it is known for who it is rather than what it is.” — Ken Schmidt Connect with Ken Schmidt:  Website: https://kenspeaks.com/Torque Sessions: https://www.torquesessions.com/Book: Make Some Noise: https://www.amazon.com/Make-Some-Noise-Unconventional-Dominance/dp/150115561XShow: Tailgating With Geniuses: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/tailgating-with-geniuses/id1576378423LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ken-schmidt-5b08115/ See Dean’s TedTalk “Why Business Needs Intuition” here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EEq9IYvgV7I Connect with Dean:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgqRK8GC8jBIFYPmECUCMkwWebsite: https://www.mfileadership.com/The Mission Statement E-Newsletter: https://www.mfileadership.com/blog/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deannewlund/X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/deannewlundFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/MissionFacilitators/Email: dean.newlund@mfileadership.comPhone: 1-800-926-7370 Show notes by Podcastologist: Hanz Jimuel AlvarezAudio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

About Vishal Gondal:Vishal Gondal is a prominent Indian entrepreneur known as the pioneer and Father of the Indian Gaming Industry. He founded Indiagames at the age of 16, scaling it internationally before its acquisition by Disney in 2011 for approximately $100 million. Vishal then transitioned into health-tech, establishing GOQii in 2014—a groundbreaking company promoting holistic wellness through advanced wearable technology and personalized coaching. He also hosts "The Awakening Code" podcast, exploring the intersection of AI, spirituality, innovation, and consciousness. Recognized globally as an innovative leader, Vishal continues to bridge technology and wellness, transforming how people engage with their health and lives. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Vishal Gondal discuss:How gamification influences long-term behavior changeShifting from reactive treatment to preventive healthcare modelsUnderstanding the gap between knowing and doing in healthThe role of AI in predicting and personalizing health interventionsExploring human purpose and spirituality in the age of AI Key Takeaways:Gamification works best when tasks are aligned with a person's skill level and progress is reinforced through small, consistent rewards.Most people already know what to do for their health, but the challenge lies in sustained motivation, not access to more information.The current healthcare system is incentivized to treat sickness instead of preventing it, which misaligns its goals with actual health outcomes.Artificial intelligence is enabling real-time, personalized health risk predictions that can guide users to make proactive lifestyle changes. "AI is going to force the healthcare system to transform, because now you no longer have to have a probability game—it’s a predictability game.” — Vishal GondalConnect with Vishal Gondal:  Website: https://goqii.com/in-enShow: The Awakening Code: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL2gtuaqZASZ0ddMrBVq_CjkXqV9UvrhMYYouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheAwakeningCodeLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vishalgondal/X (Twitter): https://x.com/vishalgondalFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/VishalGondalOfficial/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vishygo/GOQii Smart Vital series: https://store.goqii.com/smartvital  See Dean’s TedTalk “Why Business Needs Intuition” here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EEq9IYvgV7I Connect with Dean:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgqRK8GC8jBIFYPmECUCMkwWebsite: https://www.mfileadership.com/The Mission Statement E-Newsletter: https://www.mfileadership.com/blog/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deannewlund/X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/deannewlundFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/MissionFacilitators/Email: dean.newlund@mfileadership.comPhone: 1-800-926-7370 Show notes by Podcastologist: Hanz Jimuel AlvarezAudio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

About Isaac MacDonald:In his eight-year tenure at Trepwise, Isaac has consulted with over a hundred organizations and initiatives, including the New Orleans Youth Master Plan, the Jazz & Heritage Festival & Foundation, and the Orleans Public Defender’s Office. He received his B.A. in Urban Studies at Brown University, where he started the Urban Journal, an annual publication focused on building and sustaining the urban environments of the future. Before relocating to New Orleans, he worked at several environmental nonprofits in Washington, D.C. Isaac is a 2015 Venture for America Fellow and a 2021 New Leaders Council Fellow, and serves as Treasurer for the local chapter of the Sunrise Movement. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Isaac MacDonald discuss:Nonprofit organizational challenges in changing political landscapesReimagining leadership structures in social impact organizationsGovernment funding and nonprofit sustainabilityCommunity-driven transformation and place-based solutionsAdapting organizational models to complex environments Key Takeaways:To build long-term resilience, nonprofits should reduce their reliance on unpredictable government funding by developing diverse revenue sources, including earned income and creative funding models.By moving away from rigid hierarchies, organizations that embrace shared leadership structures can foster a more collaborative culture, promote innovation, and respond more effectively to change.Community-led efforts, rooted in local knowledge and shared values, offer a strong alternative to top-down approaches—allowing solutions to emerge from those closest to the challenges.Navigating today’s dynamic political and social environments requires nonprofits to stay nimble. Embracing flexible, adaptive models can enhance responsiveness and support collective problem-solving. "One of the things that we're seeing right now is that nonprofits are experiencing multiple layers of uncertainty.” — Isaac MacDonald Connect with Isaac MacDonald:  Website: https://trepwise.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/isaac-macdonald-28229067 & https://www.linkedin.com/company/trepwiseX (Twitter): https://twitter.com/trepwiseFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/trepwise See Dean’s TedTalk “Why Business Needs Intuition” here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EEq9IYvgV7I Connect with Dean:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgqRK8GC8jBIFYPmECUCMkwWebsite: https://www.mfileadership.com/The Mission Statement E-Newsletter: https://www.mfileadership.com/blog/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deannewlund/X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/deannewlundFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/MissionFacilitators/Email: dean.newlund@mfileadership.comPhone: 1-800-926-7370 Show notes by Podcastologist: Hanz Jimuel AlvarezAudio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

About Michelle Prince:Dr. Michelle Prince, founder of MPrince Consulting, is a global leadership coach, HR tech advisor, and human capital consultant. With 30+ years in HR, she’s been a certified leadership coach since 2006 and holds a doctorate in organizational leadership, bringing 20+ years of global leadership expertise.Michelle empowers professionals and organizations to achieve transformational growth and navigate challenges while advocating for sustainability and well-being.Dr. Prince recently wrote the book "Creating Your Encore Career," a #1 Best Seller Career Guide on Amazon. The book inspires people approaching retirement age but not quite ready for traditional full retirement to craft an Encore Career that provides personal fulfillment and flexibility. It is full of insights and practical advice for anyone looking to pivot in their career. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Michelle Prince discuss:Navigating encore careers and career reinventionThe challenges and rewards of professional transitionsThe role of mindset in embracing changeThe impact of a strong support network in career shiftsPersonal development as a key to long-term success Key Takeaways:Career transitions can be intimidating, but embracing them with the right mindset allows for new opportunities, fulfillment, and a second chapter of success.Many professionals hesitate to make a change due to fear of the unknown, but taking small, intentional steps can help smooth the transition into an encore career.Surrounding yourself with supportive people—mentors, coaches, and peers—plays a critical role in successfully navigating career shifts and personal reinvention.Professional reinvention isn’t just about changing jobs; it’s about aligning your work with your values, strengths, and passions to create a more meaningful path forward. "I wrote the book to be fully accessible to people who can't afford or wouldn't do a coaching engagement, but they might read a book about it, and might look at it as a guide and a self help.” — Michelle Prince Connect with Michelle Prince:  Website: www.mprinceconsulting.comEmail: michelle@mprinceconsulting.comBook: Creating Your Encore Career: A Guide to Finding Purpose and Prosperity in Your THIRD Act: https://www.amazon.com/Creating-Your-Encore-Career-Prosperity/dp/1950336778LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mprince-consulting & https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-prince-dm  See Dean’s TedTalk “Why Business Needs Intuition” here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EEq9IYvgV7I Connect with Dean:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgqRK8GC8jBIFYPmECUCMkwWebsite: https://www.mfileadership.com/The Mission Statement E-Newsletter: https://www.mfileadership.com/blog/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deannewlund/X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/deannewlundFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/MissionFacilitators/Email: dean.newlund@mfileadership.comPhone: 1-800-926-7370 Show notes by Podcastologist: Hanz Jimuel AlvarezAudio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

About Rebecca Macieira-Kaufmann:Rebecca Macieira-Kaufmann, a former Fortune 50 Global Executive, has a proven track record in business turnarounds, scaling ventures, and global expansion. Most notably, she led Citibank California out of a headline-making crisis in 2008, launching a decade-long career at Citigroup. As the Founding Member of RMK Group, she advises CEOs on leadership and strategic HR. Co-author of FitCEO: Be The Leader of Your Life, her book has sold thousands worldwide. Recognized for her impact, she was named one of the Bay Area's 100 Most Influential Women in Business for twelve years, earning the title of Forever Influential Woman. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Rebecca Macieira-Kaufmann discuss:Leadership and personal well-beingThe impact of small habits on health and successThe role of social connections in longevity and happinessManaging stress and maintaining a positive mindsetCultural influences on health and lifestyle choices Key Takeaways:Incorporating small, intentional habits like taking the stairs, walking during phone calls, or parking farther away can gradually build a healthier lifestyle without overwhelming effort.Meaningful social connections, whether through lifelong friendships or daily micro-interactions, have been shown to be more crucial to long-term health and happiness than even diet or exercise.Leaders who actively practice gratitude, maintain a sense of humor, and seek moments of awe can better manage stress, stay motivated, and create a positive influence on those around them.Maintaining a consistently optimistic and forward-thinking mindset has been linked to greater longevity and resilience, sometimes even outweighing the negative effects of poor health habits like smoking. "I have managed a lot of teams through crises... finding all the good that already exists and then leveraging that. So building muscle where there is muscle, versus trying to build something from scratch.” — Rebecca Macieira-Kaufmann Connect with Rebecca Macieira-Kaufmann:  Website: https://rmkgroupllc.com/Book: FitCEO: Be the Leader of Your Life: https://www.amazon.com/FitCEO-Be-Leader-Your-Life/dp/1774581426LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/r-m-k/   See Dean’s TedTalk “Why Business Needs Intuition” here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EEq9IYvgV7I Connect with Dean:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgqRK8GC8jBIFYPmECUCMkwWebsite: https://www.mfileadership.com/The Mission Statement E-Newsletter: https://www.mfileadership.com/blog/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deannewlund/X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/deannewlundFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/MissionFacilitators/Email: dean.newlund@mfileadership.comPhone: 1-800-926-7370 Show notes by Podcastologist: Hanz Jimuel AlvarezAudio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

About Matt Leta: Matt Leta is an entrepreneur, digital product innovator, and #1 bestselling author with 20+ years of experience. He founded his first startup at 19 and went on to build and exit Dropr (an artist platform) and TABLE (a future-of-work platform). He later established HOO KOO E KOO, a remote company that helped 150+ startups, mid-size, and Fortune 500 companies—including Apple, Google, and JLL—with digital innovation and transformation. In 2020, he founded Future Horizon, a nonprofit uniting leaders and innovators to solve future challenges. Through his #HustleGPT challenge, he pioneered AI-driven business creation, leading to Future Works, which is driving next-gen digital transformation. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Matt Leta discuss:Building a structured and repeatable innovation processManaging innovation fatigue and resistance to changeThe role of leadership in fostering innovationThe difference between innovation, invention, and transformationIntegrating AI and digital transformation effectively Key Takeaways:Many innovation initiatives fail because organizations lack a structured process to turn ideas into tangible results.Employees at all levels hold valuable insights, and creating an inclusive process for idea generation increases engagement and buy-in.Innovation efforts should be consistent but not overwhelming, with structured participation, such as dedicating one hour per week, to maintain momentum without causing burnout.Successful innovation depends not just on generating ideas but also on securing leadership support, prioritizing the right initiatives, and effectively integrating changes into existing operations. "Saying ‘I’m too tired to innovate’ is like saying, ‘I’m too tired to go to the gym.’ Many people would be—but as a leader building a team—or a Team of Teams—do you… want your teams to have this fitness? You want them fit—to outcompete others. It’s important today.” — Matt Leta Connect with Matt Leta:  Website: https://leta.bio/Email: matt@future.worksBook: https://leap.guideLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matleta/ Matt also shares free insights on innovation, AI, and digital transformation in his fast-growing newsletter (30K+ subscribers in a year). Subscribe here: https://insights.future.works/   See Dean’s TedTalk “Why Business Needs Intuition” here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EEq9IYvgV7I Connect with Dean:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgqRK8GC8jBIFYPmECUCMkwWebsite: https://www.mfileadership.com/The Mission Statement E-Newsletter: https://www.mfileadership.com/blog/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deannewlund/X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/deannewlundFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/MissionFacilitators/Email: dean.newlund@mfileadership.comPhone: 1-800-926-7370 Show notes by Podcastologist: Hanz Jimuel AlvarezAudio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

About Christopher Seifert:Chris Seifert, founder of Enabling Empowerment, is a dynamic leader dedicated to transforming organizational leadership and team performance. With 20+ years in manufacturing operations and strategic advisory, he empowers leaders through innovative strategies.At Enabling Empowerment, Chris combats micromanagement with training and coaching that foster creativity, ownership, and shared leadership. His achievements include leading a renewable energy company’s growth from $450M to $1B, boosting production by 200%, and delivering $300M in EBITDA improvements. He also founded an Operational Excellence Practice at Wilson Perumal and is a decorated Naval Officer. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Christopher Seifert discuss:Decision-making as a teachable skillMicromanagement and poor decision systemsThe seven-step decision-making frameworkDecision rights based on competenceDecision-making and employee engagement Key Takeaways:Implementing a structured decision-making framework allows leaders to respond effectively to both strategic and emergency situations, scaling the level of rigor based on urgency and risk.Leaders often become micromanagers not because of arrogance or distrust, but because they are stuck in a cycle where their team relies on them for every decision, leading to burnout and inefficiency.Organizations that grant decision-making authority based on demonstrated competence rather than rank create a more effective leadership structure, allowing better decisions at every level.Employee engagement increases when individuals feel they have a real impact on decisions, and leaders can foster this by involving their teams in the decision-making process rather than simply handing down directives. "Few organizations I've come across deliberately improve decision-making as a skill for their leaders. They leave it to chance, hoping they make more good decisions than bad and the bad ones don't wreck the company.” — Christopher Seifert Connect with Christopher Seifert:  Website: https://enablingempowerment.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@EnablingEmpowermentLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christopherseifert/ & https://www.linkedin.com/company/enabling-empowerment/   See Dean’s TedTalk “Why Business Needs Intuition” here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EEq9IYvgV7I Connect with Dean:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgqRK8GC8jBIFYPmECUCMkwWebsite: https://www.mfileadership.com/The Mission Statement E-Newsletter: https://www.mfileadership.com/blog/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deannewlund/X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/deannewlundFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/MissionFacilitators/Email: dean.newlund@mfileadership.comPhone: 1-800-926-7370 Show notes by Podcastologist: Hanz Jimuel AlvarezAudio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

About Susan Inouye:Susan is an executive coach, bestselling author, and co-founder of Sawubona Leadership. With a two-decade career transforming over 600 companies, she's renowned for integrating millennial insights into corporate strategy. Her bestselling book, "Leadership’s Perfect Storm," explores how millennials redefine leadership through possibilities, passion, and purpose. Recognized as one of the “Top 10 Inspiring Women Rocking the Global Business World,” Susan’s work fosters inclusive cultures globally under Sawubona Leadership, celebrating individual gifts and uniting generations. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Susan Inouye discuss:A gift-centered leadership approach in organizationsBridging the gap between millennials and older generations in corporate environmentsSomatic practices for leadershipThe power of community in leadership The ‘Sawubona’ leadership approach Key Takeaways:When leaders rely too heavily on their natural gifts (e.g., planning, high standards), those strengths can become weaknesses, such as micromanagement or resistance to adaptability. Learning to integrate the "opposite" trait fosters balance.Intellectual insights alone do not create lasting change; leaders must embody new behaviors through physical experiences, such as slowing down through Tai Chi or building confidence through martial arts.Companies that implemented the "Sawubona" approach saw significant financial and cultural improvements, with some increasing profitability by 50% in just six months.Sustainable change in leadership starts with a few committed individuals who embody transformation, creating a ripple effect that reshapes organizational culture. "Most people who have a gift, they overuse the gift until it becomes a weakness or curse.” — Susan Inouye Connect with Susan Inouye:  Website: https://susaninouye.com/leadovationpodcast/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7G6sjAyzq3UDnumH7L8ZcwLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susan-inouye-083384b/X (Twitter): https://x.com/InouyeSusanFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/susaninouye2Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/susan_inouye/Book: Leadership's Perfect Storm: https://www.amazon.com/Leaderships-Perfect-Storm-Millennials-Possibilities/dp/194527137X   See Dean’s TedTalk “Why Business Needs Intuition” here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EEq9IYvgV7I Connect with Dean:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgqRK8GC8jBIFYPmECUCMkwWebsite: https://www.mfileadership.com/The Mission Statement E-Newsletter: https://www.mfileadership.com/blog/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deannewlund/X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/deannewlundFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/MissionFacilitators/Email: dean.newlund@mfileadership.comPhone: 1-800-926-7370 Show notes by Podcastologist: Hanz Jimuel AlvarezAudio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

About Projjal (JJ) Ghatak: JJ is pioneering a new approach to leadership in today's hybrid work environment. At OnLoop, he uses AI-driven feedback mechanisms to empower leaders to foster growth, collaboration, and high performance within their teams. His innovative approach shifts feedback from judgment to curiosity, turning it into a tool for constructive development. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Projjal (JJ) Ghatak discuss:The role of AI in enhancing leadership and workplace feedback systemsAI-driven productivity and its impact on workforce efficiencyThe intersection of artificial intelligence and emotional connectionThe future of AI in business and global competitivenessEthical and societal implications of AI replacing human interactions Key Takeaways:AI-generated feedback has been proven to be more structured, unbiased, and effective than feedback given by 91% of human managers, helping employees better understand their strengths and weaknesses.Studies show that people are more likely to accept constructive feedback when they don’t know if it was written by AI or a human, but they become more resistant when they are explicitly told it was AI-generated.AI-powered companionship services, such as AI-generated boyfriends and girlfriends, are growing rapidly, especially among individuals who have lost a loved one or feel emotionally isolated.Unlike some nations that regulate AI cautiously, Singapore has actively embraced AI innovation, prioritizing technological advancement over concerns about potential misuse in order to stay globally competitive. "Giving and receiving good feedback is a deeply unnatural act, and I think we've been largely unsuccessful at getting people to do it well at scale.” — Projjal (JJ) Ghatak Connect with Projjal (JJ) Ghatak:  Website: https://www.onloop.com/Email: projjal@onloop.ioLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pgonloop/X (Twitter): https://x.com/OnLoopFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/StayOnLoop/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/stayonloop/   See Dean’s TedTalk “Why Business Needs Intuition” here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EEq9IYvgV7I Connect with Dean:YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgqRK8GC8jBIFYPmECUCMkwWebsite: https://www.mfileadership.com/The Mission Statement E-Newsletter: https://www.mfileadership.com/blog/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deannewlund/X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/deannewlundFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/MissionFacilitators/Email: dean.newlund@mfileadership.comPhone: 1-800-926-7370 Show notes by Podcastologist: Hanz Jimuel AlvarezAudio production by Turnkey Podcast Productions. You're the expert. Your podcast will prove it. 

Amit Ramlall, co-founder of the Chintan Project and a unique observer through his autism, joins his father, Dr. Kumar Ramlall, an entrepreneur and medical specialist, to discuss transformative insights for leaders. They delve into how Amit's typing communication method shapes understanding and connections. The duo emphasizes the power of deep listening and intuition in tackling business challenges. Personal struggles often affect company success, and they highlight the art of turning obstacles into opportunities—all rooted in authentic relationships.