Surfacing Leaders

In this episode of Surfacing Leaders, host Marc Koehler explores the transformative journey of Chris Dyer, a business culture expert, and keynote speaker. They focus on creating a workplace culture centered around transparency, openness, and a unique concept coined by Dyer as "Part-Time Leadership."   The episode navigates through Dyer's experiences and practical advice, highlighting the significance of creating environments where mistakes are seen as opportunities for growth. Dyer shares insights into the evolving leadership landscape, emphasizing the importance of leaders adapting to change and encouraging open team communication.    The discussion touches upon embracing failure as a learning tool, fostering a culture that welcomes diverse perspectives, and the role of leaders in continuously improving themselves and their teams. The episode also explores the impact of AI on leadership and envisions a future where technology enhances our lives, allowing more time for creative and fulfilling pursuits.   Join Marc Koehler and Chris Dyer in this insightful conversation as they unravel the layers of leadership, share anecdotes, and inspire listeners to cultivate cultures that empower individuals to thrive personally and professionally.

In this episode of the Surfacing Leaders podcast, host Marc Koehler sits down with Marcus Collins, an award-winning marketer, cultural translator, and author of the newly released book For The Culture. Marcus shares his remarkable story of surfacing as a leader, from music and tech to his current, prominent roles as Chief Strategy Officer at Wieden+Kennedy New York and marketing professor at the Ross School of Business.    Their conversation highlights Marcus's unique leadership perspective, which straddles both realms of academia and practical marketing experience. Drawing from his background as a startup co-founder, his work on iTunes + Nike sport music initiatives at Apple, and his pivotal role in shaping digital strategy for Beyoncé, Marcus offers a wealth of insights.   The episode emphasizes the importance of:   Cultural understanding in leadership to create empathy for colleagues and employees Shifting from tasks to vision/purpose, drawing examples from historical figures like Martin Luther King Jr. and Steve Jobs.  Fostering a business culture that aligns with a shared vision, highlighting the challenges leaders face when the workforce needs more belief in the organization's ideologies.  Understanding different forms of empathy, from automatic, semantic empathy to more intentional, cognitive empathy.   Marcus offers valuable advice for leaders navigating the changing landscape, particularly with the upcoming generational shift. He challenges the notion of generational stereotypes, urging leaders to focus on instilling belief in their organizational culture.   Perfect for seasoned or aspiring leaders, Marcus Collins blends academic wisdom with practical experience, providing valuable insights into the mind of a leader. He offers a roadmap for cultivating effective and empathetic leadership in any industry.

In this episode of the Surfacing Leaders podcast hosted by Marc Koehler, listeners will gain valuable insights from Hala Khalaf's journey of surfacing as a leader. Hala is a multifaceted individual who balances various roles as a leader in the Hard Rock organization, a new mother, and the CEO of her handbag line. During the conversation, Hala shares her experiences managing the memorabilia department at Hard Rock, where she oversaw a team responsible for curating and showcasing over a thousand iconic pieces globally. She highlights the importance of effective communication, collaboration, and weekly meetings to align the team. The discussion also touches on leadership qualities, emphasizing the significance of humility, adaptability, and the ability to wear various hats. As the conversation unfolds, Hala shares her experiences as a new mother and a business owner. She provides practical insights into time management, planning, and the significance of prioritizing tasks to maintain a balanced life. By listening to this episode, you will learn: Strategies for managing a team in a dynamic environment by emphasizing effective communication. The qualities that make a leader successful in a small, collaborative team setting. The importance of staying attuned to societal preferences and evolving design concepts. Practical insights into balancing professional responsibilities with motherhood and entrepreneurship. A glimpse into visionary leadership, setting aspirations, and collaborating for a meaningful cause. This episode provides listeners with a comprehensive understanding of leadership dynamics, personal growth, and the intricate balance required to thrive in various aspects of life.

In Episode 17 “Inclusive Leadership: Building a Stronger Workforce through Second Chance Redemption,” host Marc Koehler engages in a profound conversation with Jeff Korzenik, an economist and author. The episode focuses on the transformative power of today’s business leaders providing second chances to individuals with criminal records - helping them surface from their past as leaders - and how it benefits the workforce, social issues, employment, and economic prosperity.   Jeff Korzenik narrates his journey, drawing from his extensive experience and keen insights, and recognizing the profound impact of social ills on the labor force. The conversation navigates through the opioid epidemic, long-term unemployment, and the detrimental effects of justice system involvement on employability. It is a journey that intertwines personal narratives with alarming societal trends, painting a comprehensive picture of the barriers a significant portion of the workforce faces.   The pivotal moment arrives when Jeff stumbles upon a solution—a beacon of hope found in companies dedicated to offering second chances. He highlights the inspiring work of business leaders in companies like Nehemiah Manufacturing, Butterball Farms, and Shaw Industries, each embracing a model that provides employment opportunities and addresses the intricate challenges faced by individuals with criminal records.   Marc and Jeff discuss these leaders’ innovative approaches, from creating private social worker networks to forming advisory councils. The emphasis is on seamlessly integrating these individuals into the workforce, transforming them into engaged, loyal, and productive employees. They also explore the profound impact of supportive structures, such as mentorship, coaching, and community engagement, in breaking down the barriers that often hinder successful reintegration into the workforce. Jeff shares compelling examples of companies recognizing the human element, thus providing jobs and fostering a sense of belonging and purpose.   As the conversation unfolds, the discussion shifts to Jeff's book, Untapped Talent, written as a catalyst to propel the dialogue further. Marc and Jeff underscore the importance of business leaders embracing this social responsibility, recognizing the profound impact they can make on individual lives and the overall health of communities and the economy.   Listeners are left inspired and encouraged to reconsider preconceived notions, understanding that providing second chances is not just a social responsibility but a pathway to unleashing untapped potential and creating a positive ripple effect far beyond the individual.

In this episode of Surfacing Leaders podcast, host Marc Koehler engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Teri Hart, the author of Hardwired to Learn and a seasoned expert in the field of learning and development. Teri, with a background rich in experience, shares insights into the transformative power of continuous learning and the evolving landscape of leadership. The episode begins by delving into Teri's journey, tracing her career from the Navy to her impactful role as a learning leader. Teri emphasizes the paradigm shift in understanding the brain's ability to generate new stem cells, challenging the notion that adults are incapable of developing them. The conversation evolves to explore neuroplasticity and the limitless potential of learning at any age, a central theme in Teri's book. The discussion takes an introspective turn as Teri reflects on her own leadership style, emphasizing the importance of being deliberate in leadership roles. She highlights the necessity of creating a system where individuals work collaboratively toward a shared vision, and she emphasizes the role of leadership in fostering a continuous learning culture. The conversation widens to discuss the dynamic landscape of learning and development in the corporate world. Teri sheds light on the importance of skills such as learning agility, cultural competence, critical thinking, collaboration, and technology fluency in the contemporary workplace. The discussion emphasizes the role of leadership development programs, drawing parallels to the military's laddered approach to skill-building. As the episode progresses, Teri explores the future of learning and development, foreseeing a shift from content creation to supporting individuals in navigating their unique learning journeys. The episode concludes with a powerful message about the imperative nature of leadership in creating a sustainable future for individuals, companies, and communities. Listeners are encouraged to explore Teri Hart's book, Hardwired to Learn, a comprehensive guide that challenges preconceptions about learning and inspires a mindset of continuous growth. This episode serves as a beacon for those seeking inspiration and guidance in the realms of leadership and lifelong learning. Tune in to Surfacing Leaders Podcast for more captivating stories of leaders in unexpected places and the indomitable human spirit that propels us all.

On Episode 15 of Surfacing Leaders, host Marc Koehler talks with former D1 soccer captain-turned-CEO of Captain's University, Anja Koehler, about her journey of being tapped as team captain to overcoming adversity and finally empowering women leaders worldwide. Among other inspiring stories from her soccer career, this episode explores Anja's experiences as a player and captain at Cal, her transition to the University of Portland, and her injury-forced deviation from playing professional soccer. Anja's leadership qualities and resilience shine as she then recounts her post-soccer journey and her pivotal decision to found Captain's University to serve the captains of tomorrow. As Anja discusses the unique leadership styles she uncovered through her research, the podcast explores the significance of fostering leadership skills in women. This conversation focuses on the importance of women having a voice in leadership roles, on and off the field, and Captain's University's transformative work in this space. Anja explains that she and CU are teaching players that they are #MoreThanAnArmband - they are the captains of their lives with a specific, identifiable leadership style they can lean into confidently. Listeners will gain insights into Anja's innovative approach to leadership development, the importance of self-awareness, and the role of empathy in leadership. The episode encapsulates a powerful narrative of triumph over adversity, offering inspiration and valuable lessons on leadership that extend beyond the soccer field. Join Marc and Anja as they explore the depths of leadership, resilience, and the transformative journey from setback to empowerment.

Dive into Episode 14 of Surfacing Leaders as Marc Koehler and guest Commander George Wallace unfold his extraordinary journey—from navigating the depths of submarine command to crafting best-selling novels turned Hollywood hits. Explore the intricacies of submarine life, where camaraderie and teamwork are crucial against the unforgiving ocean backdrop. Wallace's transition to civilian life takes unexpected turns, blending physics, engineering, and the fast-paced world of electronic stock trading. The narrative takes a literary twist as Wallace transforms naval experiences into a gripping 20-year book series, delving into the challenges of portraying submarine operations in fiction. The story unfolds further with Hollywood adapting Wallace's work, offering behind-the-scenes insights into screenplay development and actor choices. Commander Wallace shares leadership insights, highlighting the importance of being a good follower before assuming leadership roles. Drawing parallels between submarine and corporate leadership, he emphasizes mentorship, learning from leaders, and effective communication. Join us in Episode 14 to be inspired by this captivating journey and uncover the leadership lessons beneath the surface.

In this conversation with Bob Goodwin, founder of Career Club, listeners gain crucial insights into navigating career changes. Bob emphasizes the importance of attitude and introduces the "KEEL" method for maintaining a positive mindset. He highlights essential skills like curiosity and resilience that employers value today. The discussion dives into personal branding and the significance of aligning one's career with integrity and purpose. Throughout, Bob inspires listeners to embrace self-leadership on their career journeys.

In this inspiring episode of Surfacing Leaders, host Marc Koehler welcomes Coach Frank Zimmerman, a remarkable guest whose life story is intrinsically tied to the world of soccer and Marc himself, as they have coached together and been friends for almost 20 years. Join us as we delve into the extraordinary journey of an unsung hero, renowned in Southern California for his profound impact on the community. Frank Zimmerman, a true embodiment of the adage that a coach can touch more lives in one year than most people do in a lifetime, has dedicated his life to coaching soccer in Oceanside, California, and beyond. Aside from the trophies and wins, he's honed a legacy built on shaping not just skillful soccer players but also nurturing future leaders and responsible individuals. Through guided discovery, personal readiness, and technical expertise, Frank has used soccer as a vehicle to impart life skills that transcend the boundaries of the pitch. From teaching the youngest players the art of “selfishness” to understanding the complex interplay of personal and collective readiness, his unique coaching philosophy emphasizes the importance of skill development and teamwork, which can be seamlessly translated into the business world of coaching leaders. In this episode, Frank and Marc discuss how the same principles that Frank employs on the soccer field can be applied to the corporate world. They explore the idea that coaching and mentorship are powerful tools for fostering leadership qualities, problem-solving skills, and emotional intelligence among players and employees alike. Frank's unwavering commitment to personal growth and nurturing talent provides valuable insights for listeners in both sports and business. The episode takes us on a journey through Frank's exceptional career, highlighting the significance of parent involvement, advocacy, and building relationships in creating successful young athletes and, more importantly, well-rounded human beings. This episode is a testament to the idea that sports, when guided by compassionate mentors like Frank Zimmerman, can indeed be a powerful force for positive change, leaving an indelible mark on communities and individuals alike. Join us as we celebrate Frank Zimmerman's remarkable contributions, his boundless dedication to soccer, and the profound impact he has made in shaping the lives of future leaders through the beautiful game.

Join us in this flavorful episode of Surfacing Leaders as we dive into the inspiring journey of Starr Edwards, the driving force behind the culinary sensation known as Bitchin' Sauce. Starr's remarkable story takes us from her humble beginnings at a local farmers market to the global stage. We explore the secret ingredients that have made her leadership style unique and effective, uncovering the recipe for her company's astounding success. Starr's entrepreneurial spirit and relentless pursuit of excellence are showcased as she shares her insights on leadership, management, and the family-focused culture that sets Bitchin' Sauce apart. Discover how she defied conventional wisdom and embraced the unknown to turn her saucy dream into a thriving reality. With humility as her guiding principle, Starr Edwards reveals her valuable lessons on leadership, emphasizing the power of being open to learning and unafraid to ask questions. From navigating the ever-changing landscape of business to scaling up while maintaining a family-like environment, Starr's leadership journey provides a valuable source of inspiration for aspiring leaders. Tune in to this episode to learn the "secret sauce" that transforms good leaders into great ones and gain a fresh perspective on what it takes to create a lasting brand in today's dynamic world. "Secret Sauce to Leadership" will leave you hungry for success and eager to explore the untapped potential within you.