Business

Do Good To Lead Well with Craig Dowden

If you’re passionate about mastering self-leadership, you’re in the right place. I’ve dedicated my career to understanding the science and practice of positive leadership. I Integrate evidence-based principles from the fields of positive psychology with those in leadership and organizational excellence that will help you develop real-life solutions to solve your greatest challenges. Each week I’ll bring world-class content with industry experts to help you use positive leadership to build a peak performance culture.

Latest Episodes:

Keeping it R.E.A.L.: A success strategy in leadership and in life w/ Dianna Fioravanti (President, Kuehne + Nagel Canada) Jun 19, 2025

Show notes

Dianna Fioravanti, the trailblazing president of Kuehne + Nagel Canada, joins us to unveil her transformative "REAL" leadership model—Resiliency, Empathy, Authenticity, and Legacy. As the first female President in her organization, Dianna shares her journey of breaking barriers, achieving gender parity on her executive team, and leveraging self-leadership in a post-COVID world. Get ready to be inspired as she details her strategies for flipping the switch from a fixed mindset to a proactive, growth-oriented approach, all while emphasizing the power of self-awareness and authenticity in effective leadership.

During our conversation, Dianna opens up about the importance of resilience and leading with authenticity, especially during challenging times. She shares personal anecdotes about overcoming imposter syndrome and highlights the necessity of creating a safe environment where team members are encouraged to fail forward and learn quickly. Discover how Dianna's empowering perspective on embracing one's uniqueness and building a supportive, innovative culture has not only driven organizational success but also empowered other women to pursue leadership roles.

Explore the critical role of emotional intelligence and personal connection as Dianna recounts her experiences fostering a positive team culture through trust-building and storytelling. Her insights into embedding diversity, equity, and inclusion within organizational values offer a blueprint for transformational change. Plus, she delves into the future of leadership with AI, sharing how embracing change with optimism can unlock new potentials for growth and efficiency. Join us for an enlightening episode packed with practical advice and leadership wisdom that will leave you ready to lead with heart and hustle.

What You’ll Learn

- Strategies for flipping the switch from a fixed mindset to a growth-oriented approach.

- Overcoming imposter syndrome.

- Creating a safe environment for team members to "fail forward" and learn quickly.

- Building a culture of trust, innovation, and emotional intelligence.

- Why the best executives lead with empathy

- Embracing AI and change for the future of leadership.

Podcast Timestamps

(00:00) – Keeping it R.E.A.L. – A Blueprint for Leadership Excellence

(06:52) - Staying Resilient and Authentic as Leaders

(17:40) - Building a Positive and Empowering Culture

(30:22) - Fostering Connection

(34:02) - Leading with Empathy

(46:39) – The Power of Stories

(51:20) - Navigating A.I. Transformation for Future Leadership

KEYWORDS

Positive Leadership, Resilience, Empathy, Authenticity, Legacy, Gender Parity, Self-Leadership, Growth Mindset, Self-awareness, Psychological Safety, Fail Forward, Fostering Innovation, Emotional Intelligence, Creating Personal Connection, Building Trust, The Power of Storytelling, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Artificial Intelligence, Optimism, Navigating Change, Positivity, Gratitude, CEO Success

The Scientific Secrets of Great Listening Jun 12, 2025

Show notes

Have you ever been caught in a conversation where you felt unheard or misunderstood? On this episode of the Do Good to Lead Well podcast, I'm exploring the transformative power of effective listening. With insights from Stephen Covey's timeless principle of seeking first to understand, and a revealing study from Zenger Folkman in Harvard Business Review, I uncover the real markers of great listening. It's not just about nodding silently; it's about engaging mindfully, channeling curiosity through thoughtful questions. These skills help us navigate today’s polarized landscape and build bridges where there were none.

Active listening is more than a skill; it's an art that can mend divides and strengthen connections. Drawing from my own experiences, I share how misplaced advice during an enthusiastic travel story highlighted the pitfalls of assuming rather than understanding. Empathy and emotional intelligence are key, especially in a tech-driven world where face-to-face interactions are rare. By being present, asking the right questions, and truly listening, we can foster more meaningful relationships and learn from disagreements. Tune in to this episode and discover how great listening can lead to a brighter, more connected future.

What You’ll Learn

- Why listening is a crucial skill in our personal and professional lives.

- Common misconceptions about effective listening.

- Is being silent sufficient to demonstrate great listening?

- It’s all about timing when it comes to giving advice.

Podcast Timestamps

(00:00) – Why Listening is a (Leadership) Superpower

(02:52) – Key Behaviors of Great Listening

(15:47) – A Personal Example

(19:11) – A Final Thought

KEYWORDS

Positive Leadership, Active Listening, Communication Skills, Empathy, Emotional Intelligence, Effective Communication, Seek First to Understand, Asking Questions, Building Relationships, The Power of Curiosity, Navigating Disagreements, Unsolicited Advice, Polarized World, Open Dialogue, CEO Success

A Deep Dive into Fairness at Work with Bestselling Author Siri Chilazi Jun 05, 2025

Show notes

Join me for an engaging conversation with Siri Chilazi, a senior researcher at the Women in Public Policy Program at Harvard Kennedy School, as we explore the crucial topic of fairness in the workplace. Together, we discuss the thoughtful process behind the title of her bestselling book, Make Work Fair, which emphasizes actionable steps to align workplace dynamics with fairness. Siri's expertise as a behavioral scientist provides valuable insights into how organizations can align their practices with their values and aspirations, ensuring inclusivity and equality. Having had the privilege to meet Siri in person at a CEO Mastermind event I recently hosted at Harvard University, I can attest to the powerful impact of her insights on an audience.

We unravel the complexities of meritocracy and fairness, diving into real-world examples where biases permeate hiring practices. Through audit studies, we uncover the disturbing reality that meritocracy often remains an ideal rather than a lived reality. Our conversation challenges these discrepancies, emphasizing the importance of clear dialogue and thoughtful intervention. We explore how small, behaviorally designed interventions, like a short video in a global firm, can significantly improve female and international representation, showcasing the power of targeted efforts in creating equitable opportunities.

This episode also touches on the strategic use of data to evaluate and address biases in hiring, urging a culture of curiosity and continuous improvement. We emphasize the collective responsibility for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) and the need to recalibrate efforts to avoid unintended consequences. Discover how by harnessing diverse talents and perspectives, we can build inclusive workplace cultures where everyone feels they belong and can thrive.

What You’ll Learn

- The myths of meritocracy and the real biases affecting hiring practices.

- Innovative, behaviourally-designed interventions for fostering inclusivity.

- How grassroots initiatives can drive system-level change.

- The critical role of data in evaluating biases and the importance of continuous improvement.

- The need to recalibrate DEI efforts to avoid unintended consequences

Podcast Timestamps

(00:00) - Make Work Fair: More Than A Title

(15:27) - Fairness in Workplace Practices

(30:06) - Meritocracy and Fairness in Organizations

(38:45) - Igniting Change Through Bottom-Up Approaches

(46:07) - Building Inclusive Workplace Cultures With Data

KEYWORDS

Positive Leadership, Focus on Fairness, Make Work Fair, Inclusive Environments, Meritocracy, Overcoming Biases, Improving Hiring Practices, Audit Studies, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Grassroots Initiatives, Driving Positive Organizational Change, Leveraging Data, Unintended Consequences, Data-Driven Decisions, CEO Success

How to Become A Likeable Badass May 29, 2025

Show notes

Can you be likeable and a badass at the same time? Bestselling author and award-winning professor Alison Fragale answers this question with a resounding “Yes!” Join us in this engaging conversation as we uncover the scientific secrets of blending respect with approachability. Alison shares insights from her groundbreaking book, "Likeable Badass," where she combines her expertise in management consulting and organizational psychology to help individuals—especially women—master the art of influence and negotiation. Discover how you can leverage the science of status to enhance career success and life satisfaction.

Get ready to explore the delicate dance between generosity and strategic career advancement. Learn to strategically navigate tasks and relationships, ensuring you build a supportive professional network well ahead of promotion time. Alison also delves into the fine line between being approachable and authoritative, offering tips on how first impressions can shape perceptions of status and how to avoid common pitfalls.

Finally, we address the impact of imposter syndrome and gender biases, with powerful strategies for overcoming self-doubt and enhancing communication. Alison emphasizes authentic self-presentation and the role of mentors and allies in achieving leadership success. Whether you're just starting your career or aiming for the next level, our conversation offers actionable insights on building a genuine, influential professional identity without burning bridges or becoming a doormat. This episode is a must listen.

What You’ll Learn

- Navigating career paths with confidence and charisma

- Strategies for balancing generosity with strategic relationships

- Overcoming gender biases and mastering influence in the workplace

- Practical advice for tackling imposter syndrome and promoting authentic communication

Podcast Timestamps

(00:00) – What is a Likable Badass?

(09:21) - Balancing Generosity and Strategic Relationships

(14:38) - Navigating Status and Gender Bias

(23:43) - Mastering the Art and Science of Communication

(34:20) - Overcoming Imposter Syndrome

(46:45) – The What and Why Power of “Other Promoters”

KEYWORDS

Positive Leadership, Likable Badass, Career Success, Personal Relationships, Managing Biases, Elevating Influence, Strategic Generosity, Fostering Meaningful Relationships, Beware Non-Promotable Work, Increasing Authority, The Power of First Impressions, Reciprocity Principle, Embracing Authenticity, Overcoming Imposter Syndrome, Navigating Self-Doubt, Personal Growth, Building Allies, CEO Success

Learning from Past Stress to Build Future Resilience May 22, 2025

Show notes

What if the key to future success lies in your ability to harness past challenges? This solo episode of the Do Good to Lead Well podcast dives into the essence of resilience and leadership through the transformative power of reflection. I introduce a game-changing three-step reflection exercise designed to reveal your inherent strengths and available resources. By asking yourself strategic questions about past challenges, you can build a personal resilience toolkit. This episode encourages listeners to see reflection as morethan just a personal growth tool; it's a pathway to leading resilient teams in our complex, ever-changing world.

We further explore how adopting a resource-based approach can bolster not only your confidence but also that of your entire team. In particular, I share how the three-step process can also be applied as a coaching tool, to support your team members and/or the people you care about as they navigate their own challenges. The future is less daunting when tackled together, and this episode lays the groundwork for facing it with courage and collaboration.

What You’ll Learn

- A game-changing three-step reflection exercise.

- How to harness both personal and team strengths.

- Techniques to transform challenges into incredible growthopportunities.

- Strategies for shared learning and resilience-building to keep you inspired and motivated!

PodcastTimestamps

(00:00) – An Introduction to Resilience

(05:02) – Leveraging Strengths for Resilience

(12:26) – Building Resilience in Others Through Coaching Conversations

KEYWORDS

Positive Leadership, Resilience, VUCA, Overcoming Challenges, Leveraging Strengths, Identifying Resources, The Power of Reflection, Building Resilient Teams, Managing Stress, Increasing Our Confidence, Collaboration, Self-Discovery, Personal Growth, Resilient Mindset, Resilient Leadership, Reflective Practice, Identifying our Strengths,CEO Success

Thriving Under Pressure: Paula Davis on Resilience, Recognition, and Workplace Well-Being May 15, 2025

Show notes

Paula Davis, a bestselling author and workplace stress expert, unveils the secrets to thriving in high-pressure environments. Her journey from the courtroom to applied positive psychology brings unique insights into fostering resilience and well-being at work. Paula's latest book, "Lead Well: Five Mindsets to Engage, Retain and Inspire Your Team," serves as a toolkit for leaders striving to combat stress and disengagement.

We explore the delicate balance between workplace wellness and overall well-being, dissecting how leadership and team dynamics hold sway over employees' happiness, stress levels, and purpose. It's not just about offering yoga classes or healthy lunches; it's about cultivating an environment where growth and resilience can flourish.By challenging teams with opportunities for mastery, leaders can ignite a spark of ongoing learning and professional development. Paula shares practical strategies for fostering this growth, encouraging leaders to align personal and professional aspirations with team goals.

Building intentional relationships takes the spotlight as we discuss methods to cultivate a sense of community within teams. From "Seinfeld meetings"—those unstructured, agenda-free gatherings—to shared meals that bring teams closer together, we emphasize the importance of trust and rapport. This episode is filled with actionable insights for leaders to inspire their teams and create a thriving workplace culture.

What You’ll Learn

- Discover the innovative concept of "sticky recognition" andhow it can transform team motivation.

- Understand the delicate balance between workplace wellness and overall well-being.

- Learn how leaders can challenge teams for growth and resilience through focusing on mastery.

- Explore methods to build intentional relationships and cultivate a sense of community within teams.

- The importance of mental agility in today's AI-driven world.

Podcast Timestamps

(00:00) – An Introduction to the 5 Mindsets

(08:31) – The Science and Practice of Employee Recognition

(17:18) – Wellness Versus Well-Being? Where Organizations Can Miss the Mark

(25:10) – Leadership Lessons from Seinfeld

(28:58) – The ABCs of a Culture of Flourishing

(33:08) – The Importance of Leadership Buy-In

(48:26) – Managing Stress and Enhancing Mental Agility

KEYWORDS

Positive Leadership, Workplace Stress, Resilience, Well-being, Team Dynamics, Burnout, Positive Psychology, Employee Recognition, Increasing Motivation, Team Engagement, Organizational Culture, EstablishingCommunity, Mental Agility, Human-Centered Skills, CEO Success

Maximizing Human Potential Through the Transformative Power of Questions May 08, 2025

Show notes

Jeff Wetzler, co-CEO of Transcend and former Chief Learning Officer at Teach for America, joins us to share his journey in unlocking human potential through the power of inquiry. With a rich background in transforming educational landscapes, Jeff discusses his book "Ask: Tap into the Hidden Wisdom of the People Around You." Our conversation explores how leaders can use powerful questioningtechniques to uncover hidden insights within themselves and within their teams, fostering a collaborative and innovative environment that drives decision-making and shared understanding.

Curiosity takes center stage as we unpack the concept of evidence-based leadership, where science meets real-world application. Jeff and I shine a light on the unspoken thoughts and challenges encountered in professional settings and the valuable insights that can be gained when these thoughts are communicated clearly and openly. We emphasizethe significance of creating a learning environment where honest feedback is encouraged, allowing mutual learning and problem-solving to flourish. Drawing from expert insights, including those of Amy Edmondson, we discuss strategies for crafting questions that genuinely seek to uncover deeper understanding.

The transformative power of open-ended questions is a recurring theme throughout our discussion, offering listeners a tool to foster authentic dialogue and inclusivity. By contrasting open-ended questions with leading ones, we illustrate how genuine exploration can lead to higher-quality and more creative solutions. We highlight techniques for rekindling innate curiosity and fostering a more inquisitive mindset, encouraging a dynamic and innovative organizational culture. Whether you're a leader looking to enhance team dynamics or simply curious about the benefits of inquiry over advocacy, this episode offers a wealth of insights into harnessing the power of questions.

What You’ll Learn

- How to utilize the power of inquiry to enhance leadership effectiveness.

- Techniques for unlocking a team's full potential through curiosity.

- The impact of masterful questioning on innovation within a team.

- Ways in which open-ended exploration fosters inclusivity.

Podcast Timestamps

(00:00) - Unlocking Human Potential Through Questions

(09:51) – How to Use Questions to Enhance Communication

(19:42) – Curiosity: A Crucial Skill for Life and Leadership

(33:24) - The Power of Open-Ended Questions

KEYWORDS

Positive Leadership, Unlocking Human Potential, The Power of Inquiry, Evidence-Based Leadership, Curiosity, The Art of Asking Questions, Open-Ended Questions, Organizational Behaviour, Creating A Learning Environment, Improved Decision-Making, Effective Communication, Leading with Vulnerability, Inquisitive Mindset, Questioning Techniques, Authentic Dialogue, Innovative Solutions, CEO Success

Why Taking Time Off Fuels Success May 01, 2025

Show notes

In my latest solo episode for the Do Good to Lead Well podcast, and inspired by my own vacation, I explore the transformative power of taking time off. Evidence tells us that vacations provide us with numerous benefits, including igniting our creativity, enhancing your job performance, and even lowering the risk of heart problems. We'll also discuss why so many of us, despite knowing these benefits, let our vacation days go unused, contributing to stress and burnout.

We’ll tackle the mental barriers that hold us back from enjoying well-deserved breaks and challenge the myths around ambition and indispensability. Reflect on your own beliefs about taking time off and learn practical strategies to overcome these hurdles. From effective delegation to embracing the natural fear of disconnecting, I’ll offer actionable advice on maximizing your vacation. By fullyembracing your time away, you can return to work not only recharged but with a fresh perspective to excel. Prioritize your well-being and professional growth by making vacations an integral part of your life strategy.

What You’ll Learn

- How taking small breaks can supercharge creativity.

- Rest provides rocket fuel for your job performance.

- Secrets to overcoming mental barriers related to taking vacation.

- Strategies to unlock the full benefits of a vacation.

- The importance of prioritizing rest for personal and professional growth.

Podcast Timestamps

(00:00) – The Science Behind the Importance of Taking Vacations

(07:42) – Not All Vacations Are Created Equal – How to Maximize the Benefits of Your Vacation

KEYWORDS

Vacation, Rejuvenating, Managing the Fear of Disconnecting, Enhancing Well-being, Avoiding Burnout, Mental Blocks, Self-limiting Beliefs, Effective Delegation, The Power of disconnecting, Take Your Holidays, CEO Success

Exploring Trust and Resilience in Leadership with Jay-Ann Gilfoy Apr 24, 2025

Show notes

On this week’s episode of Do Good to Lead Well, I speak with Jay-Ann Gilfoy, CEO of Meridian Credit Union, to discuss the critical qualities of effective leadership in today's ever-changing world. Listen in as Jay-Ann shares her insights on the importance of agility, transparency, and curiosity. She emphasizes the role of empathy as a foundation for understanding diverse perspectives and making informed decisions. Jay-Ann also explores how fostering an abundance mindset within organizations can create opportunities and drive growth, offering valuable strategies for building positive cultures.

Our conversation continues with an exploration of fostering trust within organizations. The discussion highlights the significance of transparency, active listening, and creating spaces for honest feedback, especially during challenging times. Discover how these practices led Meridian Credit Union to be recognized by Forbes as one of Canada’s Best Employers.

We also explore the role of self-care in leadership and how to maintain resilience in the face of life's challenges. Discover the importance of focusing on controllable aspects, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and employing strategies like the "24-hour rule" to manage emotional reactions. Jay-Ann shares her insights on the integration of AI in leadership, encouraging curiosity and proactive engagement with new technologies to enhance productivity and decision-making.Tune in for another inspiring and insightful episode from anaward-winning CEO.

What You’ll Learn

- How to build trust within organizations.

- Strategies for fostering resilience.

- The power of abundance thinking.

- Approaches to creating an inclusive organizational culture.

- The importance of leadership qualities like empathy and agility.

- The role of transparency in effective leadership.

- Strategies for integrating AI and technology in the workplace to maximize innovation and growth.

Podcast Timestamps

(00:00) – The Key Qualities of Effective Leaders

(10:28) - Fostering Trust in Organizations

(23:14) – The Power of Self-Care

(27:30) - Creating a Culture of Belonging

(33:00) - Building Resilient Organizations

(47:56) - Embracing A.I. in Leadership

KEYWORDS

Positive Leadership, Agility, Abundance Thinking, The Power of Transparency, Empathy, Fostering Trust, Creating Belonging, Organizational Culture, Credit Unions, Positive Culture, Active Listening, Self-Care, Resilience, A.I. Leadership, Employee Resource Groups, OrganizationalLearning, Adapting to Technology, Future of Work, CEO Success

Unlocking Strategic Leadership: Insights with Dr. John Hillen Apr 17, 2025

Show notes

Dr. John Hillen, a distinguished CEO of a publicly traded company and former US Assistant Secretary of State, shares his insights on strategic leadership that you won't want to miss. With his latest book, "The Strategy Dialogues," Dr. Hillen demystifies the art of strategy through engaging conversations, making it approachable for everyone.

As we unpack the attributes that differentiate a visionary leader from the rest, Dr. Hillen sheds light on how strategic thinkers see opportunities in challenges and prioritize long-term goals over immediate tasks. We highlight the crucial balance between strategic thinking and planning, providing actionable recommendations for senior executives to weave a strategic mindset into their daily practices, and avoid the common trap of letting meeting schedules drive decision-making.

We also examine how organizations can leverage strategic thinking to gain a competitive edge in rapidly changing landscapes. By aligning with emerging trends and staying true to their strengths, businesses can not only survive but thrive amidst digital transformation. Empathy, communication, and understanding AI's role are presented aspivotal elements in leading change effectively. Most importantly, we emphasize that strategic thinking is not an exclusive privilege of big corporations; it's a vital tool for organizations of all sizes aiming to succeed in today's dynamic world.

What You’ll Learn

- Attributes of visionary leaders and how they transform challenges into opportunities.

- Balancing strategic thinking with effective project management for organizational growth.

- Leveraging empathy, communication, and AI in leading change.

- Practical strategies for aligning with emerging trends and gaining a competitive edge.

Podcast Timestamps

(00:00) – What Does Strategy Actually Mean?

(13:21) – The Qualities and Practices of Strategic Leaders

(24:15) – The Balance Between Strategy and Execution

(41:22) – Using Strategy for Competitive Advantage and Differentiation

(52:20) – Strategy in the Digital Era

KEYWORDS

Positive Leadership, Strategic Leadership, Strategy, Visionary Leader, Strategic Thinker, Strategic Planning, Digital Transformation, Empathy, A.I., Competitive Advantage, Leading with Innovation, Mergers and Acquisitions, Effective Change Management, Adapting to Technology, CEO Success

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