Episodi
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In this episode, Kevin and Maria Ross discuss:
What empathy truly means in leadership and business decision-makingBreaking the myth that empathy makes leaders weak or indecisiveHow leaders can build empathy muscles and foster human connectionBalancing performance, people, and mental health in high-pressure environmentsThe five pillars of empathetic, effective leadershipKey Takeaways:
Empathy is a leadership strategy, not a weakness. Itâs about understanding othersâ perspectives to make informed, compassionate decisionsânot about caving in or being overly sentimental.Productivity thrives in empathetic cultures. The data proves that when leaders prioritize people and human connection, performance and innovation increase.Leaders must develop a rhythm of feedback and decisiveness. Delaying difficult conversations for the sake of âbeing niceâ causes long-term harm to relationships and team growth.You donât need permission to lead with empathy. Even in unsupportive company cultures, leaders can model empathy within their own teams and create micro-cultures of trust and collaboration.The five pillars of empathetic leadership are self-awareness, self-care, clarity, decisiveness, and joy. Mastering these areas enables leaders to balance compassion with high performance.âYou actually have to be really strong to be empathetic, because to have that kind of conversation with compassion and concern, but with clarity, it takes a lot of inner strength and inner confidence to be able to have a conversation like that.â â Maria Ross
About Maria Ross:
Maria Ross is a speaker, author, strategist, and empathy advocate who has spent decades helping forward-thinking leaders and brands connect and engage through empathy for success. Maria's latest book is The Empathy Dilemma: How Successful Leaders Balance Performance, People, and Personal Boundaries, and she hosts The Empathy Edge podcast. A TEDx speaker, Maria delivers dynamic keynotes, talks, and leadership trainings to global companies and startups to help them boost engagement and performance. Media appearances include MSNBC, Inc., NPR, Forbes, Entrepreneur, and Thrive Global.
Connect with Maria Ross:
Podcast: www.TheEmpathyEdge.com
Website: www.red-slice.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariajross/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/redslicemaria/
Connect with Kevin Neal:
Website: https://drkdneal.com
Book: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0C47RZDSS
Email: [email protected]
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachkd63
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/coachkd63
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@coachkd63
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In this episode, Kevin and Daniel Vestal discuss:
The deep connection between faith, leadership, and influenceDeveloping leadership skills through spiritual formation and self-awarenessHow rhythm, not balance, sustains healthy leadershipThe importance of community and learning from diverse perspectivesTaking risks in leadership and standing firm in convictionKey Takeaways:
True leadership flows from inner alignment. When your soul and role are congruent, you cast light through your leadership, shaped by integrity, self-awareness, and purpose.Growth doesnât happen by accident. It takes time, effort, and community. Leadership is enriched by intentional learning and sharing space with people who think differently.Rhythm sustains well-being. Rather than chasing balance, leaders must cultivate rhythms of solitude, community, and meaningful engagement to thrive over the long term.Leadership comes with risk. Standing firm in your convictions may cost something, but it builds respect, character, and long-term influence.Mentorship must honor individuality. Great mentors donât create replicas of themselves; they help others become the leaders they were uniquely called to be."Leadership is really influence. So in a sense, everybody is a leader, because everybody has influence."â Daniel Vestal
About Daniel Vestal:
Rev. Dr. Daniel Vestal is the Distinguished University Professor of Baptist Leadership and director of the Eula Mae and John Baugh Center for Baptist Leadership. From 1996 to 2012, he served as the Executive Coordinator of the Cooperative Baptist Fellowship, based in Atlanta. Prior to that, he was a pastor of Baptist churches both in Texas and Georgia.
He has authored and contributed to numerous books, including Being the Presence of Christ: A Vision for Transformation and his memoir, This Treasure Within. He has written and contributed to various journals, periodicals, and news magazines while also traveling extensively as a preacher, teacher, and speaker for conferences, conventions, and retreats.
Connect with Daniel Vestal:
Website: https://baughcenter.mercer.edu/about/meet-the-director/
Connect with Kevin Neal:
Website: https://drkdneal.com
Book: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0C47RZDSS
Email: [email protected]
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachkd63
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/coachkd63
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@coachkd63
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Episodi mancanti?
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In this episode, Kevin and Nancy Becher discuss:
The challenges faced by women veterans in accessing recognition and supportThe power of servant leadership in advocacy and nonprofit workForgiveness and healing in the aftermath of trauma and chronic illnessThe founding of Invisible Warriors and its mission to uplift underserved voicesHow leaders can build deeper connections through listening and actionKey Takeaways:
Leadership requires presence, not just position. Leaders must model compassion and commitment and show up consistently for those they serve.Listening is a transformative leadership skill. True connection comes from understanding the needs and lived experiences of others, especially those who feel unseen.Forgiveness is essential to healing. Nancyâs journey illustrates how forgiving othersâand yourselfâcan unlock purpose and clarity after trauma.Advocacy must begin with awareness. Many women veterans donât receive the same recognition or resources as their male counterparts, and Nancyâs work brings visibility to their experiences.Vision and imagination can lead to real change. What began as a dream became a thriving nonprofit by simply believing that a better way was possibleâand doing the work to build it."I really think that unless the leaders truly understand where their people are coming from, they're not going to be very good leaders." â Nancy Becher
About Nancy Becher:
Nancy Becher is the founder of Invisible Warriors, a 501(c)(3) ministry dedicated to supporting military women facing invisible challenges such as PTS and Military Sexual Trauma (MST). Her work is deeply personal, inspired by her own journey of resilience after a life-changing accident in 2014 and her 14-year marriage to a retired Marine Corps MSgt with 23 years of service.
With a Masterâs in Counseling and a Ph.D. (ABD) in Sociology, Nancy brings a wealth of knowledge to her mission. She is also an International #1 bestselling author, certified Peer Support Specialist, and Chaplain. Through Invisible Warriors, Nancy provides tailored programs that empower military women to overcome challenges, build resilience, and reclaim their worth. Passionate about continuous growth, Nancy is pursuing certification as a Mental Health Coach while collaborating with military organizations nationwide to expand her reach and impact. To connect with Nancy, email her at [email protected].
Connect with Nancy Becher:
Website: https://invisiblewarriors.org
Linktree: https://linktr.ee/nancybecher
Connect with Kevin Neal:
Website: https://drkdneal.com
Book: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0C47RZDSS
Email: [email protected]
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachkd63
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/coachkd63
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@coachkd63
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In this episode, Kevin and Nick Prefontaine discuss:
How a life-changing accident shaped Nickâs mindsetThe importance of persistence in overcoming adversityWhy taking the next step, no matter how small, is crucial for growthShifting from fear to confidence in real estate and lifeThe impact of mentorship and community in personal transformationKey Takeaways:Resilience is built one step at a time. After his accident, Nick learned that moving forward, no matter how small the step, creates momentum and growth.Mindset is the key to overcoming obstacles. Challenges are inevitable, but having the right perspective can turn setbacks into opportunities.Fear shouldnât dictate your decisions. Facing fear head-on and taking action lead to confidence and success.Success is a continuous journey. Thereâs no overnight transformationâprogress comes from consistently showing up and embracing each step.Surrounding yourself with the right people makes all the difference. Having a supportive community or mentor can help you push through challenges and reach new heights."By continuing to move forward every day, you are building an unstoppable momentum." â Nick Prefontaine
About Nick Prefontaine:
https://nickprefontaine.com/step
Connect with Nick Prefontaine:
https://www.facebook.com/nick.prefontaine.7
https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickprefontaine
Connect with Kevin Neal:
Website: https://drkdneal.com
Book: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0C47RZDSS
Email: [email protected]
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachkd63
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/coachkd63
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@coachkd63
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In this episode, Kevin and Dean Newlund discuss:
The importance of ethical leadership in todayâs worldWhy leaders should embrace an ethic of "enough" and mutualityThe shift from maximizing profits to optimizing valueThe role of mentorship in personal and professional growthHow capitalism can be reimagined to serve more people effectivelyKey Takeaways:True leadership starts with a clear purpose. Leaders who understand their "why" create a meaningful impact and inspire others to follow with intention.Intuition is a powerful leadership tool. Beyond logic and data, trusting your instincts can lead to deeper connections and better decision-making.Technology should support, not replace, human connection. While digital tools are useful, over-reliance on them can diminish trust, empathy, and engagement in the workplace.Storytelling bridges the gap between logic and emotion. Leaders who use stories to communicate can make complex ideas more relatable and memorable.Self-awareness is key to transformation. The more leaders understand themselvesâtheir triggers, strengths, and growth areasâthe better they can guide their teams and organizations."When you start smelling a rat, take action on it. I'm a big person who believes in intuition, especially with leaders, and if you start to feel something is off, it probably is." â Dean Newlund
About Dean Newlund:
Recognized by some of the worldâs most influential organizations, Dean Newlund is a consultant, facilitator, coach, speaker, author, and leadership expert who is awakening organizations to fulfill their purpose. With a career spanning over 30 years, Dean has worked across five continents to build the capacity for transformative leadership, mindful organizations, strategic collaboration, and thriving cultures.
As the Chief Executive Officer at Mission Facilitators International (MFI), a boutique consulting firm headquartered in Phoenix, Arizona, Dean has dedicated his career to helping leaders, teams, and their organizations grow their people, clarify their visions, and implement their plans. His work has touched the lives of tens of thousands of employees, leaders, and board and community members, helping them resolve complex challenges and discover new opportunities.
Connect with Dean Newlund:
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCgqRK8GC8jBIFYPmECUCMkw
Website: 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/deannewlund
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deannewlund/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MissionFacilitators/
Podcast: https://mfileadership.com/resources/podcast/
See Deanâs TedTalk âWhy Business Needs Intuitionâ here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EEq9IYvgV7I
Connect with Kevin Neal:
Website: https://drkdneal.com
Book: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0C47RZDSS
Email: [email protected]
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachkd63
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/coachkd63
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@coachkd63
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In this episode, Kevin and Paul Knowlton discuss:
The importance of ethical leadership in todayâs worldWhy leaders should embrace an ethic of "enough" and mutualityThe shift from maximizing profits to optimizing valueThe role of mentorship in personal and professional growthHow capitalism can be reimagined to serve more people effectivelyKey Takeaways:
Ethical leadership starts with defining "enough." Leaders must shift their focus from endless accumulation to optimizing impact, ensuring that success benefits more than just themselves.Maximizing is not always the best strategy. Moving from a mindset of maximizing to optimizing allows for more sustainable and inclusive decision-making.Transactional relationships contribute to disconnection. Society has become overly transactional, leading to loneliness and a lack of true collaborationâleaders must change this dynamic.Mentorship plays a crucial role in leadership development. Seeking guidance from mentors and later becoming a mentor helps shape stronger leaders and communities.Healing capitalism is necessary for a more equitable future. The current system can evolve to balance profit and mutual benefit, ensuring long-term success for businesses and society alike."If we're going to bring the kingdom of God to Earth, it's up to us to help do that right part of the work." â Paul Knowlton
About Paul Knowlton:
Paul Knowlton is a partner at the Stanton Law Firm, a multidisciplinary consultant with the lived experience of an adventurous and prosperous business career. As an engineer he designs and executes ideas; as a patent attorney he creates value around intellectual property; as a corporate lawyer, business and nonprofit leader, and turn-around CEO he creates effective solutions to business challenges; and as a mediator and masterâs- level pastoral counselor he brings discernment and clarity to individuals and teams. He is the co-author of Better Capitalism: Jesus, Adam Smith, Ayn Rand, and MLK Jr. on Moving from Plantation to Partnership Economics.
Connect with Paul Knowlton:
Email: [email protected]
Website: www.BetterCapitalism.org | https://stantonlawllc.com/
Connect with Kevin Neal:
Website: https://kdnealbuildsbridges.com/
Book: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0C47RZDSS
Email: [email protected]
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachkd63
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/coachkd63
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@coachkd63
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In this episode, Kevin and Michael Garrett discuss:
The power of corporate efficiency in nonprofit operationsHow Trust World maximizes resources and expands nonprofit capacityThe importance of dignity in charitable givingOvercoming funding challenges and changing perceptions of nonprofitsBuilding technology-driven solutions to streamline community supportKey Takeaways:
Nonprofits thrive when they focus on their core mission. Many organizations dilute their impact by stretching themselves too thin. By outsourcing logistics and resource management, they can focus on what they do best.Collaboration is key to amplifying impact. Connecting nonprofits, schools, and law enforcement creates a seamless support system that strengthens communities and increases efficiency.Dignity should be at the heart of charitable giving. Providing aid in a discreet and respectful way ensures that those in need receive help without stigma, encouraging trust and long-term impact.Innovation in nonprofit work requires breaking traditional molds. Trust World challenges the standard nonprofit model by integrating corporate strategies like Six Sigma and Lean Manufacturing to improve efficiency.Embracing mistakes as learning opportunities leads to growth. Success comes from iterating, improving, and adaptingâeach failure is a lesson that refines future decision-making."Every one of our roadblocks ended up becoming amazing opportunities that just took us to the next level." â Michael Garrett
About Michael Garrett:
Michael Garrett, a seasoned corporate efficiency expert with over 30 years of experience, is transforming how nonprofits serve those in need. With expertise in Six Sigma, Lean Manufacturing, and a range of other efficiency methodologies, he is redefining operational excellence in the nonprofit sectorâensuring resources are maximized, waste is minimized, and impact is amplified. Founder, CEO - Trusted World, a non-profit that specializes in the collection, warehousing, and distribution of goods such as food, clothing, and personal care items.
They provide free resources to nonprofit organizations, caseworkers, police departments, schools, and other local agencies in need of these resources.
Connect with Michael Garrett:
Website: https://trustedworld.org/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-garrett-097431b/
Connect with Kevin Neal:
Website: https://kdnealbuildsbridges.com/
Book: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0C47RZDSS
Email: [email protected]
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachkd63
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/coachkd63
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@coachkd63
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In this episode, Kevin and Phillip Bogolub discuss:
The role of creativity in leadership and personal transformationHow mindfulness and meditation enhance leadership skillsThe importance of leading from behind and embracing collaborationUnlocking the power of imagination in professional and personal successThe philosophy of Ajanoi and its impact on leadership and daily lifeKey Takeaways:Leading from behind is just as powerful as leading from the front. True leadership isnât about visibility; itâs about impact. Many of the most influential figures work behind the scenes, ensuring success through collaboration.Creativity is the driving force behind true innovation. Instead of chasing productivity, leaders should make space for imagination and creativity, as these spark new ideas and solutions.Mindfulness and meditation are essential for effective leadership. Taking time for stillness allows leaders to clear their minds, make better decisions, and maintain emotional balance.Success isnât just about wealth or recognitionâitâs about transformation. Making a difference in people's lives and finding fulfillment in what you do matters more than titles or financial gain.Surrounding yourself with the right people is key to personal and professional growth. The people you work with and collaborate with shape your journey, making teamwork and positive relationships invaluable."You have to believe it, and you have to know that your purpose on planet Earth, your soul, knowledge, knowledge of your soul, your purpose, why you're here, is true and slow down, like Kevin's saying, slow down, turn the stuff off, put that creative imagination into being because that's the thing that's going to guide you more than anything." â Phillip BogolubAbout Phillip Bogolub:
Phillip Bogolub is the owner of Bogolub Records located in Downers Grove, Illinois.
In Phillipâs former life, he was an Engineer with an MBA and worked in the medical device field for over 25 years. His many life experiences and extensive travel around the world have led him to a transformative philosophy of the mind called, "AJANOI" (Ahjha-noy). It is centered on the awareness that everything he has experienced was intentionally designed for him to be where he is now. This opened up opportunities for a childhood dream of becoming a music composer, movie creator, producer, and philosopher of the mind. You are never too old and it is never too late to dream the dream of dreamers until it becomes real in the physical universe.
Connect with Phillip Bogolub:
Website: https://bogolubrecords.com
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bogolubrecords/
Connect with Kevin Neal:
Website: https://kdnealbuildsbridges.com/
Book: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0C47RZDSS
Email: [email protected]
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachkd63
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/coachkd63
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@coachkd63
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In this episode, Kevin and Baba Lu Olutosin discuss:
The impact of family and upbringing on leadership developmentUnderstanding the true landscape of leadership and societyThe search for identity and the power of reconnecting with one's rootsLessons from military service, music, and storytelling in leadershipThe importance of learning from mistakes and embracing lifeâs lessonsKey Takeaways:Leadership begins with understanding. The first step for any leader is awareness of the true circumstances they are facing. Without understanding the environment, decisions may be misguided.Your past shapes your purpose. Every chapter of life contributes to where you are today. Recognizing the lessons from past experiences helps in defining a clear path forward.Mistakes are only failures if you donât learn from them. When lessons arenât learned the first time, life has a way of bringing them back, often with greater intensity. Growth comes from recognizing and applying these lessons.Identity is key to personal growth and leadership. Knowing and embracing your full story prevents you from becoming just an extra in someone elseâs narrative. Owning your past and present allows you to shape your future.Success is about freedom for all. True success is achieved when every person can live without oppression, experiencing personal and collective growth in an equitable society."If you don't know who you are, you become an extra in somebody else's story." â Baba Lu OlutosinAbout Baba Lu Olutosin:
After 35 years in the Military as a Police Officer and achieving the rank of Colonel, Lutalo Olutosin aka ' Sweet Luâ Olutosin found that his calling to be a Jazz Vocalist was still as strong as it was the day he entered Military Service. âAward-winning, internationally acclaimed Jazz vocalist and lyricist Sweet Lu Olutosinâs music has seen many âbright momentsâ including reaching number #1 on the Billboard Traditional Jazz album.
Affectionately known as Baba Lu, Lutalo is a storyteller from a line of storytellers. Having recently received his citizenship from Ghana West Africa, he now holds dual citizenship and has embraced his identity as a Griot (storyteller).
Connect with Baba Lu Olutosin:
Website: https://storifi.life/
Email: [email protected]
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/19wmoquNT5/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sweetlumusic
Threads: https://www.threads.net/@sweetlumusic
Connect with Kevin Neal:
Website: https://kdnealbuildsbridges.com/
Book: https://www.amazon.com/gp/aw/d/B0C47RZDSS
Email: [email protected]
LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachkd63
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/coachkd63
YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@coachkd63
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Effective leadership starts with strong communication and connection. Each episode of Imagining Bridges to Better Leadership offers actionable tips, expert advice, and inspiring stories to help you create thriving teams and sharpen your leadership skills. Whether youâre managing a small business, leading a team in higher education, or driving growth in a midsized organization, this show is for you.
