Lifting Leaders Podcast

We are revisiting this Fan Favorite episode because it lit so many sparks for our listeners. In this inspiring episode of Lifting Leaders Podcast, we continue our “What Brings Us Hope” series with Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter and moral activist John Ondrasik, best known as Five for Fighting. Recorded just minutes before he stepped onstage, John shares a powerful reflection on music, moral courage, and hopein a world facing immense challenges. Through songs that spotlight some of humanity’s most painful struggles, he uses his platform to raise awareness, compassion, and purpose-driven action. Listen as John opens up about: 🎵 His creative journey and what fuels his mission to inspire hope 🌍 Lessons he’s learned from some of the world’s most oppressed yet resilient people 💫 The importance of following your moral compass—even when it’s difficult This heartfelt conversation will move you to think differently about leadership, purpose, and the quiet power of hope in action. Listen now and be reminded that even in dark times, one voice—and one song—can make a world of difference.

In this Lifting Leaders Podcast Gems episode, inspired by our conversation with career coach and leadership expert Shirlene Evans, we explore the value of candor in leadership and why courageous conversations are essential for effective leaders. What becomes possible when a leader is willing to clearly name what is not working? In today’s complex and rapidly changing workplace, leaders must strengthen their candor muscle—the ability to speak with honesty, clarity, and purpose. Leadership candor is not about bluntness or criticism. It is about communicating truth with intention, alignment, and respect. We explore how strong leaders anchor candid conversations in shared purpose, organizational vision, and team priorities. When leaders communicate with clarity, confusion decreases, alignment increases, and teams move forward with greater focus and trust. Inspired by Shirlene’s insight, we also discuss the importance of preparing for courageous conversations at work. Before raising difficult issues, leaders should gather relevant information—such as employee feedback, surveys, research findings, and leadership assessments—and seek multiple perspectives. One powerful preparation technique we discuss: Explain the issue as if you were speaking to a sixth grader. This exercise helps leaders simplify complex ideas and communicate with greater clarity. Finally, we unpack why candor delivered with compassion and support is critical for building trust, engagement, and buy-in during change. When people feel respected and understood, they are far more willing to listen, adapt, and participate in meaningful progress. Candor is not always comfortable—but it is one of the most important leadership skills for navigating change, strengthening teams, and leading with integrity. If you are a leader, executive, or team manager seeking to improve communication, feedback, and courageous leadership conversations, this episode offers practical insight and inspiration.

What happens when a successful technology leader feels a spark that simply won’t be ignored? In this inspiring episode of Lifting Leaders Podcast, we welcome Career Coach, Shirlene Evans, ACC, whose thriving career in the tech industry took a powerful turn when she realized her true calling was helping others navigate theirs. That spark shifted her focus from building systems to building people and the ripple effects have been profound. Listen in as Shirlene shares why one of the most overlooked leadership skills is the courage to pause and identify what is not working before rushing in to fix it. Too often, leaders move straight to solutions without fully naming the real issue. Shirlene unpacks what happens, to leaders, to teams, and to entire systems, when things go unspoken. Silence does not create stability; it stifles creativity, drains energy, and quietly erodes innovation. But when leaders learn to speak up with intention, they open the door to fresh thinking and forward momentum. You will also hear why honesty alone is not always enough when naming what is not working. It takes imagination. It takes vision. It takes the ability to see beyond the current reality and invite others into what is possible. Shirlene offers practical recommendations to help leaders build the courage and skill to speak up, move forward, and foster an environment where creativity and innovation thrive. Shirlene’s energy, warmth, and passion for coaching and mentoring shine throughout this conversation. If you have ever felt the tension between staying silent and saying what needs to be said, this episode will light a spark for you. We think you’re going to love this one.

In this Lifting Leaders Spark episode, Tricia Rhine invites listeners to explore a powerful leadership question: What is your leadership superpower? Spark episodes are short leadership reflections designed to help leaders pause, think differently, and apply practical insights in their daily leadership. In this episode, Tricia explores: • Identifying your natural leadership strengths • Recognizing the gifts others consistently see in you • How your strengths can build trust, connection, and psychological safety Through thoughtful questions and relatable insights, this episode encourages leaders to notice the strengths they may be overlooking and to intentionally steward those gifts. ✨ Reflection for listeners: What is the strength people thank you for most often - the one that feels so natural you almost overlook it?

In this powerful “Gems” episode, we revisit our rich conversation with Barbara Acevedo Visser, Master Certified Coach and uncover some leadership gems we gleaned within her wisdom. If you’ve ever left a conversation thinking, “I could have listened better,” this episode is for you. We explore what it really means to listen at deeper levels - beyond words, beyond responses, and beyond the internal dialogue that competes for our attention. Barbara reminds us that curiosity is not just a mindset - it’s a disciplined leadership practice. When we intentionally suspend judgment and choose curiosity instead, we create space for trust, insight, and genuine connection. In the episode, we’re digging into: How suspending judgment transforms conversations and strengthens rapport Why curiosity is the antidote to assumption Simple, practical steps to quiet a busy mind before and during a conversation How both speaker and listener benefit when presence is intentional What to consider before a one-on-one conversation when “fixing” isn’t the goal One of the biggest insights? When leaders enter conversations without the pressure to solve or fix, something powerful happens. Clarity emerges. Trust deepens. And both parties feel heard and valued. Sometimes the most impactful leadership move is not offering the answer - it’s offering your full attention. Barbara’s sage advice offers practical tools you can apply immediately: pausing before responding, checking your intention, naming what you’re noticing, and consciously choosing curiosity over certainty. These simple shifts can radically improve the quality of your leadership conversations. There is so much to hear and reflect on in this episode. If you are committed to building trust, strengthening relationships, and leading with intention, you will find this conversation truly insightful.

We’re taking a short break from our Light the Spark series to share something close to our hearts — love. 💛 In this special post-Valentine’s Day episode of the Lifting Leaders Podcast, we’re sending heartfelt gratitude to you, our listeners, and celebrating the people and places we cherish most — our friends and families, and the breathtaking beauty of the Pacific Northwest we’re blessed to call home. We also reflect on a powerful “Gist of Things” article by Marilyn Gist, titled The Courage to Let Yourself Be Helped. As we share highlights from her insights, we explore how accepting help is not weakness - it’s love in action. What goes through your mind when someone offers to help you? Do you worry that they don’t see you are fully capable, on our own? Just what if you accepted help? There’s something profound about this simple exchange. Accepting help can build connection. It can strengthen trust. It can spark community. So, what does that have to do with interdependence? Everything. In this episode, we share stories of when interdependence was simply “the way we did life” - and why it still matters for leaders today. We hope you love this week’s episode - and that it reminds you that leadership, at its core, is relational. 💕

In this Lifting Leaders Podcast Gems episode, we revisit key insights from our conversation with Julie Pham, PhD, author of 7 Forms of Respect and share what we discovered after taking her Respect Assessment. This brief reflection revealed powerful aha moments about how respect is experienced differently across teams and cultures. We explore what the assessment uncovered for us, how leaders can intentionally build trust and respect, and why co creating team norms and working guidelines is essential for a healthy culture. If you are a leader looking to strengthen trust belonging and respect on your team, this episode offers practical insight and inspiration to spark meaningful cultural shifts. ✨ We hope this episode lights a spark and supports you in leading with greater awareness and intention to make a better world.

What does respect really mean and why does it look so different across cultures, teams, and leadership contexts? In this episode of the Lifting Leaders Podcast, we’re joined by Julie Pham, PhD, author of 7 Forms of Respect, to explore how respect shapes leadership effectiveness, influence, trust, and belonging, especially in today’s polarized world. Julie challenges the assumption that respect is universal, inviting leaders to examine how culture, micro-cultures, hierarchy, and lived experience shape both the respect we expect and the respect we extend to others. Together, we dive deeply into two often overlooked forms of respect and why misunderstanding them can quietly erode trust, collaboration, and inclusion on teams. Grounded in our 2026 focus on Influencing Genuine Hope, this conversation explores how curiosity about respect can: Reduce polarized communication Bridge cultural and relational divides Strengthen leadership influence without authority Foster trust, psychological safety, and belonging Insightful, practical, and deeply human, this episode offers leaders a hope-forward path one where respect becomes an everyday leadership practice that brings people closer together rather than pushing them apart.

In this special Lifting Leaders Podcast “Gems” episode, we revisit the most powerful insights from our two Three-Peat conversations with Lindsey Godwin, Jeff McAuliffe, and Carla Ondrasik, three voices shaping the future of leadership, hope, and human-centered change. These conversations were rich with practical wisdom, and today we’re highlighting the moments that truly stood out, the ideas that continue to light the spark, ignite genuine hope, and help leaders lead meaningful change in 2026 and beyond. In this episode, we explore questions that matter deeply for today’s leaders: Why does language matter so much in leadership and change? What’s missing as we look toward the future of our organizations and our world? How does the way we show up influence whether people resist or embrace change? What capabilities and mindsets do leaders need to create a hopeful, sustainable future? As we reflected on these conversations, a powerful meta-message emerged: Slow down. Pay attention. Take intentional steps forward. You’ll hear our guests’ heartfelt recommendations for leaders, including: Starting small and building momentum Noticing where energy and possibility are emerging Reducing distractions to focus on meaningful action Reflecting on lessons learned before setting forward-focused intentions Whether you’re a senior leader, coach, or change agent, this episode offers practical insights and reflective prompts to help you lead with clarity, courage, and hope. 🎧 Listen in—and if you haven’t heard the original Three-Peat episodes yet, be sure to explore them on your favorite podcast platform.

Hope-led leadership. Strategic slowness. Accountability. Collective action. What happens next when The Three-Peat conversation continues? ✨ Deeper reflection. Bolder truth-telling. Practical wisdom for leaders navigating 2026. In Part 2 of The Three-Peat, Dr. Lindsey Godwin, Jeff McAuliffe, and Carla Ondrasik return to explore the mindsets and behaviors leaders need for sustainable, hope-led leadership in a complex world. As the year unfolds, this powerful conversation invites leaders to slow down, pay attention, and lead with greater intention. Together, they challenge urgency culture and explore strategic slowness as a leadership practice, one that creates space for wiser decisions, stronger relationships, and long-term impact. In this episode, we explore: • Why strategic slowness strengthens leadership rather than weakening it • The importance of clarifying intentions at the start of a new year • How accountability turns intention into action and keeps hope moving • A surprising insight about motivation and leadership behavior • What leaders must stop doing-and start doing-in 2026 This conversation calls leaders to release habits that no longer serve and to choose practices rooted in purpose, responsibility, and hope in action. ✨ Listen in and lead differently. Because hope doesn’t rush. Leadership isn’t performative. And the future we’re creating depends on what we choose - starting now. 🎙️ Lifting Leaders Podcast | The Three-Peat-Part 2 Let’s keep lighting the spark.

Hope-led leadership. Resilience. Courageous action. What happens when three trusted leadership voices come together for the first time? ✨ A Three-Peat—and a powerful conversation to launch the new year with clarity, purpose, and hope. In this special two-part episode of the Lifting Leaders Podcast, we welcome back three influential leaders and authors Lindsey Godwin, Jeff McAuliffe, and Carla Ondrasik, for a deep conversation about leadership in uncertain times, meaningful change, and what it takes to move from intention to action. Together, they explore how hope functions as a leadership practice, why curiosity and possibility matter more than ever, and how leaders can break free from unsustainable norms in their organizations, communities, and lives. In Part 1, we explore: • Why hope is not passive, but relational and actionable • How resilience and commitment are built over time • Why leaders must create positive visions of the future • How curiosity, purpose, and courageous leadership open new paths forward This episode is more than a reunion, it’s a call to lead with hope, act with intention, and create meaningful impact. ✨ Join us for Part 1 of The Three-Peat and begin the year with hope-led leadership and real-world action.

As we step into 2026, we’re inviting you into a bold new chapter of hope-driven, human-centered leadership, one grounded in action, connection, and real-world impact. This year on Lifting Leaders Podcast, our focus is clear: Light the Spark. Ignite Genuine Hope. Lead the Change.Together, we’ll explore how leaders can create meaningful change, in themselves, their organizations, their communities, and the world, especially in complex and uncertain times. In 2026, listening goes beyond inspiration. We’ll challenge the idea that hope is simply optimism and instead explore why hope is relational, actionable, and essential for leadership today. Through candid conversations, practical leadership tools, and powerful stories, we’ll show how hope must be practiced and lived or it fades. Expect episodes that: Expand how you think about leadership, purpose, and possibility Offer practical tools you can apply immediately Explore leadership as a force for connection, courage, and positive change Ground hope in intention, action, and human relationships If you’re ready to lead with intention, spark genuine hope, and be part of a leadership community that believes leadership can truly be a force for good, we’d love to have you with us in 2026. 🎧 Subscribe, listen, and join us as we light the spark together.

As 2025 comes to a close, we’re taking a heartfelt pause to reflect on a powerful year of learning, leadership, and HOPE on the Lifting Leaders Podcast. This special year-end episode looks back at the conversations and guests who shaped our thinking, inspired our courage, and reminded us what’s possible when leaders show up with authenticity and purpose. Join us as we revisit the stories and insights that quieted our early-year worries and transformed them into clarity, connection, and renewed belief in what leaders can create even in complex times. Our guests shared extraordinary wisdom this season, helping us see leadership through the lens of hope, resilience, curiosity, and possibility. Most of all, this episode is about gratitude for our remarkable guests, and for YOU. Your presence, engagement, and commitment to leading with intention are the heartbeat of this podcast. You are the reason we show up, week after week, to elevate conversations that move leaders and the world, forward. Listen in as we wrap up 2025 with appreciation, reflection, and an inspired look ahead to 2026. We can’t wait to continue lifting leaders together in the new year.

Lifting Leaders Podcast closes out our 2025 guest lineup with a truly inspiring duo: acclaimed Pacific Northwest landscape photographer Robert LaSelle Chism and his life and creativity partner, Sun So, making her debut on the show. In this visually rich and deeply human conversation, Robert and Sun share the stories, techniques, and artistry behind Robert’s breathtaking Pacific Northwest landscape photography images known for their vibrant color, depth, and mind-bending perspectives. (Yes…including those “how is that even possible?” puddle shots Sun helps direct.) You’ll hear how these high school sweethearts found their way back to one another after years apart and built a life filled with creativity, collaboration, and purpose. Together, they offer a rare look into what it means to merge love, art, and a shared vision, transforming everyday moments into extraordinary works of photographic storytelling. If you’re a photography lover, PNW adventurer, artist, creative professional, or simply someone who loves a beautiful real-life love story, this episode will both inspire and delight. What You’ll Learn in This Episode How Robert captures iconic Pacific Northwest landscapes with next-level composition The creative process and partnership behind his stunning photography Tips for seeing the world through a more artistic lens How love and reconnection sparked a powerful creative collaboration Why everyday scenes (even puddles!) can become extraordinary art Tune in to enjoy an authentic, heart-centered conversation that blends nature, creativity, and the power of partnership. After this episode, you’ll never look at landscape photography—or love—quite the same way again.

As we close out our “What Brings Us Hope” series, we’re taking time to reflect on the most powerful lessons, insights, and stories shared by our extraordinary guests—leaders, creators, innovators, and everyday changemakers who brought hope to life in meaningful ways. In this episode, we revisit key themes from the series and highlight the surprising insights, moving stories, and memorable moments that resonated with our listeners. We also share discoveries from our two-year research study on HOPE, including what helps people strengthen hope, sustain it during challenges, and amplify it in community. Whether you’re new to the series or catching up on episodes you missed, this conversation will leave you feeling inspired, grounded, and ready to carry hope into the future.

This Thanksgiving week, we’re sharing what we’re most grateful for and exploring creative, eco-friendly ways to celebrate the holiday. In this episode of Lifting Leaders Podcast, we dive into simple, sustainable Thanksgiving ideas, from reducing waste to choosing Earth-friendly traditions, that can make your holiday more meaningful, mindful, and memorable. Whether you’re cooking, commuting, or prepping for the big feast, tune in for low-effort, high-impact tips that help you honor gratitude while caring for the planet. If you’re looking for sustainable holiday ideas, greener hosting practices, or inspiration for a more intentional Thanksgiving, this episode offers plenty to reflect on. Give it a listen before Thursday because your future self (and the Earth) may thank you. Happy Thanksgiving!

In this inspiring episode of Lifting Leaders Podcast, we continue our “What Brings Us Hope” series with Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter and activist John Ondrasik, best known as Five for Fighting. Recorded just minutes before he stepped onstage, John shares a powerful reflection on music, courage, and hope in a world facing immense challenges. Through songs that spotlight some of humanity’s most painful struggles, he uses his platform to raise awareness, compassion, and purpose-driven action. Listen as John opens up about his creative journey and what fuels his mission to inspire hope, lessons he’s learned from some of the world’s most oppressed yet resilient people and the importance of aligning your actions to your values even when it’s difficult. This heartfelt conversation will move you to think differently about leadership, purpose, and the quiet power of hope in action. Listen now and be reminded that even in dark times, one voice and one song, can make a world of difference.

Feeling overwhelmed or hopeless? You’re not alone. In this Lifting Leaders Podcast episode, Kristal Roberts and Tricia Rhine share practical ways to rise out of hopelessness and rediscover hope through small, intentional actions—like self-care, gratitude, and shifting your mindset. Tune in and learn how to rebuild resilience, nurture emotional wellbeing, and move forward with grace.

In this episode of Lifting Leaders Podcast, we continue our “What Brings Us Hope” series with a powerful conversation with Jeni Craswell, President & CEO of Leadership Eastside. Jeni shares how courageous, values-based leadership can transform not only organizations but entire communities. As co-chair of the visionary team that created the first community-focused adaptive leadership curriculum for LE, she’s helping local leaders build the mindset and capacity to address complex social challenges collaboratively. Discover how initiatives like Eastside Pathways are creating thriving, equitable communities through trust, connection, and shared purpose. Jeni offers wisdom on aligning who you are and what you value with the work you do, reminding us that real change begins within. Tune in for inspiration on how to lead with hope and courage in times of change, build leadership capacity across communities, and foster collaboration, equity, and belonging. Listen now to be inspired to lead differently, starting with yourself.

This week on Lifting Leaders Podcast, we explore the power of pressing pause. In a world that glorifies busyness, intentional rest can feel risky—but it’s often where hope, resilience, and creativity return. Learn how taking an intermission can restore well-being, spark innovation, and renew your sense of purpose as a leader and human being.

Continuing our “What Brings Us Hope” series, we explore what our Hope Survey reveals about how people sustain hopein daily life and leadership. Discover simple, research-backed practices that build resilience, strengthen well-being, and help leaders stay grounded when challenges arise. Hope is a verb — and we all have a role in keeping it alive.

Continuing with our theme of “What Brings Us Hope,” we are so happy to introduce you to Darrell Thomas, Creator and Host of “The Money Levels Show,” host of “Resource Investment Conference Media Channel” and seasoned EDI professional. Spend this time with us, as Darrell candidly shares his fascinating story, from his beginnings in Oklahoma, through his varied endeavors that have led him to this point in his life journey. Learn what sparked Darrell’s focus toward financial wealth and how that started him on a new journey to help others gain control of their own finances. He even has a few things to say about our country’s current economic concerns and how we can keep things in perspective. We HOPE you enjoy spending this time with the three of us.

Continuing with our theme of “What Brings Us Hope,” we are excited to introduce you to a World-class research scientist, Dr. Matt Sturchio, PhD, who is transforming how we think about solar energy. Most people know that solar panels are used to feed the grid, so we can heat and light up our homes or recharge our vehicles. Imagine a world where solar panels coexist with native plants, nourishing the soil and possibly mitigating some of our worst climate challenges. What if we could grow more habitats for foraging animals? Listen in and learn about Ecovoltaics, and how Matt’s research is transforming our future. Hear about Matt’s Cornell University project focusing on the co-location of agriculture and solar, in New York State and beyond. If you, like us, are interested in learning about how existing materials are shaping a better world for now and for our future, listen to this episode. We HOPE you will feel as inspired as we do.

We’re beyond excited to share our first-ever public speaking engagement, on the topic of HOPE—at the International Organization Development Network Conference. It’s only Day One but we are already learning so much! We spent this great day meeting fellow OD Professionals and learning from some of the pioneers in our profession. What does it feel like to step onto a global stage for the first time? How can somatic practices, like music, create alignment across systems and organizations? Do you know what Agency is and why it matters? And what unexpected insights emerge when you sit in a World Café conversation, where collective wisdom takes shape through dialogue? In this episode, we reflect on what we learned, how it inspired us, and why this milestone matters for our journey. Curious? Come listen in—you might discover ideas that spark your own growth, too.

What better way to kick off our new, Season Five series, “What Brings Us Hope,” (that’s one!) than to celebrate with one of our absolute, all-time favorite guests, for the third time, Carla Ondrasik (that’s two!)? And we are thrilled and honored to be sharing this episode on the very day that Carla’s new book, STOP TRYING – The Life-Transforming Power of Trying Less and Doing More, is launching! (that’s three!). Yes, listeners…that’s right! You can get it hot off the press today!! Listen in, as Carla shares a bit of her journey, over the past 20 years, to get to this day…launch day. Learn about the role planning played in helping Carla Stop Trying and begin Doing. Ever hear the expression, “Eat the frog”? Well listen in and you may find yourself embracing the practice yourself. What Brings Us Hope, during this upbeat episode lies in seeing ourselves and anyone who reads this book, begin to feel stronger, more confident, empowered and engaged, when we all Try less and Do more. We hope you check out the episode. We’re inspired to Stop Trying and we hope you will be too!

We are SO excited to be back from our annual Summer break AND to introduce Season FIVE of Lifting Leaders Podcast! We did a lot during our six-week sabbatical, and we want to share some of it with you. Listen in and hear about a key lesson learned, during this time off. Hint…how many activities can one commit to, in a six-week period of time? Hear about a related lesson learned that we believe everyone should heed, particularly when winding down from work or school. Check out our latest series, focusing on What Brings Us Hope, that will officially kick off next week. We will be digging into different ways people find and feel more aligned with hope. So, if you find hope in art, music, the environment, activism, whatever, you will likely find a great deal of inspiration in this series. It took approximately 15 minutes to get the show notes written (counting spelling and grammatical corrections!). This episode is just about 20 minutes longer than that – and you don’t need Spell Check! Let’s keep that conversation going, shall we?

Well, we did it! Season Four is coming to a close, just as we begin our annual Summer break (August, anyway!). In this episode, we share some of the highlights from this season’s show, with fantastic guests, insightful Gem episodes, Coaches Corners and more. We learned and accomplished so much, this season, from offering a series on Coaching from the Heart; visiting our local plant nursery, to learn more about indigenous plants that attract pollinators; and sharing the spotlight during the Hudson Institute Learning Conference. Everything we offered and everything we did this season gave you, our listeners, opportunities to grow and to explore new and different possibilities. Hey! We even learned a bit from and about Chat GPT! We are so grateful that you are part of our listening network, and we look forward to bringing even more in the new season. In fact, we have some ideas for a few new series, in Season Five, and we HOPE you will join us. We are taking the month of August off, as we do, every year. Keep your ears and eyes open for an Season Five announcement, coming in early September. Collectively, we are all making the world a better place. Let’s keep that conversation going, shall we?

As we get closer to taking our annual August break, we want to take a look at ways in which we can have fun, while not overtaxing our environment. Listen in and learn about some simple ways that everyone can make a sustainable difference, while having fun. Interested in learning about how you can save on your energy usage? Did you know that it takes less water to run a full dishwasher than it does to wash dishes by hand? We didn’t. For us coffee drinkers – we don’t have to throw away our grounds anymore. They are great for the soil! When was the last time you took a trip through your local thrift store. You might be surprised to find some true treasures in previously owned and gently used items. We hope you will check it out. In fact, we would love to hear, from you, ways in which you are saving time, energy, and doing things that are sustainable. We will gladly share your ideas on our podcast and on our website. We hope you find some gems in this episode. Listen in!

When you look in the mirror, who do you see? If you’re like many people, you may be a bit self-critical. But is that self-awareness? Spend this Coaches Corner time with us, as we explore something that is foundational for everyone who leads (and that’s everyone!). Leading yourself, with self-awareness, is inspirational and it serves as a model for others to become more self-aware. It leads to higher levels of emotional intelligence and greater decisions. It is also essential for employee engagement. If you’re wondering how to build self-awareness (which is an ongoing process), listen in, and we will share ways in which you can do that. It doesn’t have to be painful. In fact, it can be truly empowering, engaging, and can lead to greater self-confidence and compassion. We hope you enjoy this episode.

Who do you belong to – and, who belongs to you? If these questions just stopped you, in your tracks, listen in to this week’s episode, where we spend nearly an hour with our new friend, Paul Haury, who shares his perspectives on the topic of true belonging. Paul’s vitae includes being a practicing coach, consultant, former Global VP of People & Culture, former IT Director and much more! Hang out with us, as Paul takes us on an expedition, in search of belonging in leadership, belonging as a foundation in culture, self-belonging, and belonging as a key to coping in challenging times. This is a great topic that goes deeper than you may have expected. Ready to rewire your neuropathways a bit? Spend this time with us and drink in Paul’s energy and enthusiasm on this most important topic. Enjoy!

Checking in with ourselves or, said another way, getting grounded was just one of many gems we gained, from Dorothy Siminovitch, PhD., founder and president of Gestalt Coaching Works. Our time with Dorothy was rich with insights and inspiration, much of which we will be unpacking for some time to come. With all the uncertainty that is swirling around us, these days, we felt it was a good idea to check in and see what other experts say about getting grounded and leading with confidence. Listen in, as we unpack an article from Forbes on staying grounded in uncertain times. The steps are foundational in the world of leadership, and they stand up over time. If you’ve listened to previous episodes, you know that leader vulnerability is a quality we value and it shows up, again, when we take steps to stay grounded. Spend this time with us and learn more about how keeping a broader perspective than your own and experimentation can help you lead with greater confidence. Finally, hear about steps we take to gain or regain our grounding, in times of need. Check it out – we believe you’ll be glad you did!

If you listen to our podcast, you know that, at the end of each episode, we promise you future episodes with more fantastic guests. Well, this week, we delivered on that promise. Meet Dorothy Siminovitch, Ph.D., MCC. Dr. Siminovitch is a pioneer and visionary, in the field of Gestalt–based coaching, the founder and president of Gestalt Coaching Works, and co-founder of multiple major coach training programs, internationally. Listen in, as Dorothy shares her journey to now, starting out, without a true career plan, and, by following her interests, landing in the most fascinating roles that helped her find her place, at the forefront of game-changing coaching and development. Learn about resistance to change and the role that presence plays, and how small steps can minimize resistance. You will be introduced to a 2x2 model that can help us understand a bit more about why we experience resistance/reactions, in ourselves and/or from others. Want to hear more about presence as a personal power? This is truly an episode packed with valuable gems you won’t want to miss. We think you’ll be glad you spent this hour with us.

After spending a delightful hour with our friend, fellow podcaster (The Courage Effect) and professional coach, Suzanne Weller, we decided to use courage for this episode, as we wanted to share our thoughts about courage during change. If you are a regular listener of Lifting Leaders Podcast, you know that, in addition to interviews and Gems episodes, we also do Coaches Corners, where we unpack and offer tips and advice on various topics. This week’s episode is really a Gems show with a touch of Coaches Corner thrown in. Listen in as we offer ways in which you can demonstrate courage toward effective change and results. Need a roadmap for moving from concept/idea to effective change outcomes? Looking for a real growth mindset approach for conducting after action meetings that can lead to more engaged next steps? Are you ready to enable greater growth and development for your team? Well, if this sounds like what you’ve been looking for, listen in and learn some fairly simple methods that can change your outlook on change. We hope you feel more informed and comfortable with your current and/or future change steps.

Who says two podcast cohosts can’t interview another podcast host? Not your Lifting Leaders Podcast hosts. This week we are excited to interview Suzanne Weller, leadership coach, speaker, change practitioner, communication strategist, and host of the podcast, The Courage Effect. Suzanne gifted us with her wisdom, stemming from experiences that paved the way for her to help leaders (and everyone is a leader) overcome what gets in their way of leading courageously. Listen in as she shares her story of recognizing her own courage. Want some advice on how to lead with more courage and possibility? If you want to learn more about the role that courage plays in true leadership, join us…meet Suzanne and learn how she defines leadership.

Once again, we had a great time, interviewing Melissa Castro, Millennial Leadership Coach and Author of the newly launched book, Intrinsic Leadership – A Coaching Guide for Millennials Who Want To Lead in All Aspects of Life. Melissa gifted us so many gems related to her book, that it was difficult to settle on just one…but we did! If you listened to the previous episode, you heard Melissa talk about how, many Millennial leaders walk around with a “backpack of crap” – all the stuff that becomes a heavy weight, like doubts, fears, world events, everything…those very things that can stall or prevent leaders from moving forward, doing their best work and that are, most often, the sources of anxiety and fear. Listen in, as we unpack a related article, and lend our own thoughts and ideas to the twelve things you might consider doing, to unload your own backpack of unneeded/unwanted “stuff.” We think you’ll find most steps are pretty foundational, some might even be simple to navigate…all are positive steps toward discovering your own intrinsic leadership self. Check it out!

Attention, Millennial Leaders and Everyone Else! It was so fun welcoming Melissa Castro, Millennial Coach and all-around amazingly creative leader, back to our podcast to celebrate and talk about her newly published book, Intrinsic Leadership – A Coaching Guide for Millennials Who Want To Lead in All Aspects of Life. While Melissa wrote this book, with a specific audience in mind, it is clear that everyone who leads (and everyone leads) will find value within the pages of this book. Listen in and learn what compelled Melissa to write this book, at this time, in the world. Hear her share a bit of her philosophy on leadership and, from that, the questions that help her navigate though greater, intentional living. If you’ve been working within long-subscribed business success formulas that do not offer what you need, to lead in your most comfortable and authentic way, then spend this time with us. We hope you’ll listen in AND we believe you will feel inspired and ready for action.

As we recorded this episode, on the front end of Mother’s Day weekend, we started simmering on the topic of caregiving…something moms know all too well about. So, with a world of respect, to all the moms out there, we are taking a look at caregiving, from a few different angles. The first angle is, of course, all about people who provide care for others. This includes all women AND men, who may be providing ongoing care for one or more parent or other family member(s). It includes the “Sandwich Generation,” who may have kids at home and, just maybe, have older family members living in their homes. Being a primary caregiver is a truly challenging job, and it can be difficult to realize the rewards, while you’re entrenched in the role. Listen in, as we share a few of our personal journeys, as caregivers and what we gained from our experiences. If you’ve ever needed care from others, but found it difficult to ask or accept, you’ll learn more about why it’s okay and courageous to be vulnerable and accept care. Finally, we approach caregiving from the angle of caring for ourselves. This may be the most challenging aspect of caregiving and it’s critically important. So, join us as we hold caregiving “Story Time,” with you. We hope it inspires you to explore your own environment and feelings.

In this Encore Edition, Dr. Pam McLean, Co-Founder of The Hudson Institute of Coaching, talks with us about why this is “a golden moment for us as human beings” and what she has learned, through decades of working with leaders around the globe, about the critical capabilities leaders need to develop to solve the complex issues in the world today. This episode is even more relevant today than when we initially recorded it, prior to the podcast's launch more than three years ago! We hope you enjoy the revisit to this amazing, inspiring episode.

We’ve been in Santa Barbara, California, THRIVING at the Hudson Learning Conference. This is just an introduction to the experiences we’ve had this past week. We made great connections, both new and old and have learned so much about Possibilities, ahead! We are so honored that Lifting Leaders Podcast was spotlighted during the conference and we look forward to welcoming new listeners and followers, as a result! Many thanks to Hudson Institute’s amazing staff, for a world of support they gave us, to make this happen. Listen in as we talk to a fellow Seattle coach, at the conference, and learn how she is Thriving in 25! Also, we are giving a shout out to Corey, our favorite garden center representative, for his expertise and support in teaching us about native plants that attract and nurture birds, bees, and butterflies! Check out the episode…we recorded in the lobby!

This week’s episode seems so timely, as we are digging into the beauty and importance of creating spaces that attract and nurture birds, butterflies and bees. These vital creatures are not only a joy to watch but they play a critical role in our ecosystems – and their populations are declining! Listen in as we share a bit of information and statistics on this topic. Learn how incorporating native plants in your garden space provides the food and shelter these pollinators need to thrive. Whether you garden in a yard or containers, you can create an enticing space for these beautiful and important critters. We would love to hear from you – what are you doing in your garden or outdoor space to support birds, butterflies, and bees?

As we continue on our theme of “Leaders THRIVE in 25,” we look to ChatGPT, to help us show different ways, in which we can all THRIVE, this year. Listen in and learn how we decided to use this AI tool, without bailing on the commitment we have to our own values, knowledge and experience. Learn more about the courage and bold steps it takes to thrive and how reflection helps us grow into an intentional state of thriving. Hear how imagination ignites a contagious energy that can inspire others to dream and thrive as well. Finally, BONUS…we have an AI-inspired poem that wraps all of this up with a bow. We hope you enjoy this episode and that you feel inspired to reach back and share your thoughts about it. We would love to learn what you’re doing to THRIVE in 25. Enjoy!

There were so many gems to be found, during our interview with Carole McCluskey (Episode 132). We decided to focus on Finding Courage as an appropriate gem for this week’s episode. During our interview with Carole, we noticed that she has essentially lived in courage, throughout her amazing career, from being one of the first women leaders in the tech industry, to trekking by bike over long stretches of our country, and so much more! In today’s world, we are experiencing unprecedented change and upheaval and many of these changes are testing our courage in new ways. Speaking up, when it matters, can be seen as truly courageous. Is it courageous to speak up about work matters, on the job? For those who may work in environments that don’t seem psychologically safe, practicing courage may be a bold move. Listen in as we share some essential steps to finding your courage. Learn why we say that courage is a skill.

With our theme of “Leaders Thrive in 25,” we are introducing more practicing formal leaders on our show, to hear their journeys, their ups and their downs and what it took for them to “thrive” in leadership. We are excited to introduce you to Carole McCluskey, tech industry leader/executive with over 35 years in various roles, including board and advisory roles in companies like Redbox/Coinstar, MOD Pizza, TrueBlue, Tealium and TIBCO Software. Spend this time with us as Carole shares why she is an “accidental success story.” You may be able to identify with some of her lessons learned, along her career journey. Learn about what she claims is the best advice she ever received. The story that led to that advice is a real eye-opener. So, if you’re at home, get comfortable. If you listen while commuting…you know what to do! In any event, we think you will be glad you spent time listening to this episode. Enjoy!

What are values and what purpose do they serve? If you have ever found yourself in a situation where you needed to make a very difficult and important decision, you have most likely had to do a bit of soul searching. What you were seeking was the answer that you could believe in or that you felt was the right decision. How did you do that? Well, this episode is about the importance of knowing your values. Listen in, and learn about where they come from, how they serve a purpose in your life and what to do when they aren’t working anymore. Spend this short time with us, as we discuss the foundation that guides our decisions and our behaviors. Looking for ways to determine what your true core values are? Listen in for a simple way to do that.