Episodes
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"A really powerful lesson is knowing that it is okay to admit when you've made a mistake. That shows people that your ego isn’t getting in the way of you showing up as a good human.”
In this episode of Executive Evolution, Craig Anderson sits down with Susan Baroncini-Moe, Executive Coach and CEO at Baroncini-Moe Executive Coaching, about leadership grounded in empathy, self-awareness, and authenticity. Susan shares the importance of vulnerability in building team trust and explains why candid feedback, rather than anonymous reviews, strengthens teams.
Susan reflects on her early career managing her father’s medical practice and shares the leadership lessons she learned firsthand through these experiences. She also advises fostering a safe, open culture that promotes honesty, growth, and authenticity, which is essential for today’s executives.
Get your copy of Fierce Leadership by Susan Scott Connect with Susan Baroncini-Moe on LinkedIn Check out Baroncini-Moe Executive Coaching Connect with Craig on LinkedIn Subscribe to Craig’s "The Evolving Leader" newsletter Check out Craig’s monthly free training on holding difficult conversations
After You Listen:
Develop emotional intelligence and self-awareness to inspire authentic connections Build a legacy of integrity and growth through honest, open communication Approach difficult conversations with empathy and listening first
Key Takeaways:Things to listen for:
(00:00) Intro
(02:26) Lightning round
(17:46) Mastering self-awareness
(18:29) Evolving leadership philosophy
(19:00) The power of vulnerability
(20:01) Handling mistakes with grace
(20:52) The weight of leadership
(27:30) The role of a coach
(31:31) The pitfalls of Performance Improvement Plans
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"Instead of protecting their feelings for them, I’ve learned that it’s their job to protect their feelings. It’s my job to give them the truth, and you can do it in an empathic way.”
In this episode, Craig Anderson speaks with Peter Dunn, CEO of Your Money Line, about the leadership lessons that come from embracing empathy and self-awareness. Peter recounts his early experiences where he focused on achieving his personal goals, only to realize that true leadership means helping others grow. He shares how this shift in perspective transformed his approach and led to better team outcomes.
After You Listen:
Get your copy of Give and Take by Adam Grant
Connect with Peter Dunn on LinkedIn
Check out Your Money Line
Connect with Craig on LinkedIn
Subscribe to Craig’s "The Evolving Leader" newsletterCheck out Craig’s monthly free training on holding difficult conversations
Leadership is about providing resources and removing obstacles to help your team succeed Empathy in communication, especially during difficult conversations, is crucial for effective leadership Nurturing potential in team members who may not see it in themselves promotes internal growth and leadership development
Key Takeaways:Things to listen for:
(00:00) Intro
(02:32) Lightning round with Peter Dunn
(04:05) Setting up a “talent bomb”
(11:09) How self-awareness shapes leadership growth
(15:35) Leadership is a privilege
(16:37) The power of empathy in leadership
(21:57) Maturity means being comfortable with difficult conversations
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Missing episodes?
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"Leadership is about more than directing, it's about inspiring your team and guiding them towards a shared goal.”
Connect with Craig on LinkedIn Check out Craig’s monthly free training on holding difficult conversations
In this episode of Executive Evolution, Craig Anderson interviews his son, Daniel Anderson, discussing various aspects of leadership experienced throughout Daniel’s naval career.
Daniel reflects on his initial leadership role as a Combat Electronics and Main Propulsion Division Officer upon joining the Navy. He shares his insights into the balance between hands-on leadership and administrative duties, the evolution of his leadership strategies, and the application of the "good dude" theory of leadership.
After You Listen:
Key Takeaways:
Identify individual motivations to inspire and effectively lead your team Delegate tasks according to team strengths to maintain efficiency Trust your team but verify their work to ensure accountability and foster growthThings to listen for:
(00:00) Intro
(02:10) Lightning round
(05:55) Navigating team dynamics in the Navy
(08:16) How to balance leadership and learning
(14:43) Lessons on delegation and micromanagement
(19:45) The ‘good dude’ theory in leadership
(22:50) How to improve time management in leadership -
"Make sure your intent and the impact are aligned, right? Because even if it's not necessarily a positive situation, if you do your job well, then it should be articulated objectively and with the right tone and outcome.”
In this episode of Executive Evolution, Craig Anderson chats with Caroline Abeleda, Co-Founder of Exploradoor. Caroline discusses why treating your team with dignity is essential, even in difficult situations like layoffs. She explains how embracing vulnerability helped her address the challenges of transitioning from peer to leader and how this openness fostered trust within her team. Caroline also talks about the realities of leading a company that’s always in growth mode, and where time management and resource allocation play a crucial role.
Get your copy of Leaders Eat Last by Simon Sinek Connect with Caroline on LinkedIn Check out Exploradoor
After You Listen:
Connect with Craig on LinkedIn Check out Craig’s monthly free training on holding difficult conversations
Show your team honesty in one-on-one conversations to build trust and strengthen relationships. Ensure your leadership actions match your business goals to achieve desired outcomes Handle tough decisions with compassion, preserving the dignity of your team members
Key Takeaways:
Things to listen for:
(00:00) The lightning round
(07:22) Defining leadership beyond the title
(10:38) Becoming a leader among your peers
(15:07) Challenges of leading a company that’s always in growth mode
(19:13) The Importance of self-awareness in leadership
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“Leadership is getting in the trenches with those you serve and leading by example.”
In this episode of Executive Evolution, Craig Anderson chats with Cassie Mecklenburg, Executive Director of Sheltering Wings, about how emotional intelligence and empathy play a big role in leadership.
Cassie shares her story, starting from her leadership roles in college all the way to running a successful non-profit, and how she leads at Sheltering Wings today. She talks about how she balances big-picture thinking with the day-to-day stuff, and why having a team with different strengths makes all the difference.
After You Listen:
Connect with Cassie on LinkedIn Connect with Craig on LinkedIn Check out Craig’s monthly free training on holding difficult conversationsKey Takeaways:
Practice empathy by understanding your team’s challenges Surround yourself with diverse perspectives to enrich decision-making Lead by example by getting in the trenches and showing you're willing to do the hard work alongside themThings to listen for:
(00:37) The importance of emotional intelligence
(01:54) How to navigate tough topics with people-first leadership
(03:49) Knowing when to compromise or stand firm
(15:03) The importance of curiosity in leadership
(17:31) From daily tasks to community-focused leadership
(20:07) How to be a coach and not just a problem solver
(24:25) Why leaders should build friendships with their teams
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"Be confident in yourself to pour into other people what they need.”
In this episode, our host, Craig Anderson, is joined by Steve Rupp, a seasoned real estate coach and passionate leader. Steve shares how managing from a place of confidence and generosity can break the negative cycle of threatened leadership and drive real team success.
Listen in as Steve recounts his journey from his first leadership role as a Boy Scout patrol leader to his impactful career in real estate coaching. He discusses the critical lessons learned along the way, emphasizing the importance of building trust and improving communication through creative team-building exercises.
You'll also hear about the transformative power of mentorship and effective delegation. Steve offers actionable insights on how young leaders can motivate their teams from within and the art of asking the right questions to inspire self-reliance and ongoing improvement.
After You Listen:
Get your copy of Leadership Promises for Every Day by John Maxwell
Connect with Steve on LinkedIn
Connect with Craig on LinkedIn
Check out Craig’s monthly free training on holding difficult conversations
Key Takeaways:Be confident and provide your team with the right tools—don't feel threatened. It’s essential for positive leadership.
Stay positive and maintain confidence for your team, even during challenging times. Positivity is contagious.
Embrace the power of questioning. Encourage self-discovery instead of providing all the answers.
Things to listen for:
(00:00) The lightning round
(02:23) Defining leadership
(07:09) Leadership lessons from the Boy Scouts
(11:07) Challenges of young leadership
(15:19) Scarcity vs. contribution in leadership
(17:45) The importance of creativity in leadership
(23:31) The role of curiosity in effective leadership
(27:14) Steve’s advice to his younger self
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"Leadership isn't just about steering the ship. It's about making sure every crew member knows they're on the right journey.”
In this episode of Executive Evolution, our host Craig Anderson sits down with Evan Huck, CEO of UserEvidence, to discuss the highs and lows of leading through uncertainty, building a thriving remote culture, and inspiring a mission-driven team.
Join us to discover how Evan leads with empathy and insight, even when facing the hard truths of executive life.
After You Listen:Get your copy of Let My People Go Surfing: The Education of a Reluctant Businessman by Yvon Chouinard
Connect with Evan on LinkedIn
Check out UserEvidence
Connect with Craig on LinkedIn
Check out Craig’s monthly free training on holding difficult conversations
Key Takeaways:Sharing your company's story openly fosters trust and keeps your team motivated, especially during tough times
Documenting priorities and progress helps everyone to be aligned and focused
Curiosity and humility: these qualities drive growth and problem-solving within the company
Things to listen for:
01:22 Evan's Leadership Journey
01:52 Lightning Round: Leadership book
03:48 Leadership Influence
08:23 Defining Leadership
10:31 Early Leadership Roles
16:30 Lessons in Leadership
22:56 Final Thoughts and Takeaways
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"Leadership is about more than making decisions. It's about being curious, courageous, and continuously learning from those around you."
In this episode of Executive Evolution, host Craig Anderson welcomes Dr. Jackie Freiberg, co-founder of Epic Work, Epic Life, to discuss building brave leaders who embrace risks and seek better ways to lead.Jackie shares invaluable insights on creating a support network, addressing problems quickly, and surrounding yourself with advisors who challenge your decisions. She emphasizes the transformational power of asking questions and avoiding "I know" statements, drawing on her rich experience with iconic leaders. Tune in and learn about practical wisdom from a seasoned leadership expert.
Get your copy of Nuts!: Southwest Airlines’ Crazy Recipe for Business and Personal Success Connect with Jackie on LinkedIn
After You Listen:
Check out Epic Work, Epic Life
Connect with Craig on LinkedIn
Check out Craig’s monthly free training on holding difficult conversations
Emerging leaders must cultivate a mindset of curiosity and courage to ask questions and seek better ways of doing things
Key Takeaways:It's important for leaders to build a strong support system of trusted advisors and to develop superior public speaking skills
Effective leadership requires avoiding toxic work environments and fostering an atmosphere of feedback, empathy, and grace
Things to listen for:
02:14 Lightning Round with Jackie
02:21 Discussing Leadership Books
05:22 Leadership Crushes
10:26 Defining Leadership
12:50 Challenges for New Leaders
18:03 Dealing with Bad Bosses
21:50 Key Lessons for Successful CEOs
28:35 Final Advice for New Leaders
33:12 Conclusion and Key Takeaways -
"True leadership isn't just about making decisions. It's about being authentic, serving your team, and building real connections.”
In this episode of Executive Evolution, host Craig Anderson sits down with Matt Tait, CEO of Decimal, to have a conversation about the transformative power of authentic leadership.
Matt shares how transparency and authenticity have steered him through challenging times, including scaling a company and navigating the uncertainties of the pandemic. He
also jumps into the importance of leading with core values, managing both up and down within your organization, and the necessity of self-care for sustainable leadership while opening up about his reliance on family support, executive coaching, and peer groups.
After You Listen:
Get your copy of The Great CEO Within by Matt Mochary
Get your copy of I'm Proud of You: Life Lessons from My Friend Fred Rogers
Connect with Matt on LinkedIn
Follow Matt’s podcast, After the First Million
Check out Decimal
Connect with Craig on LinkedIn
Check out Craig’s monthly free training on holding difficult conversations
Key Takeaways:
Position your office to engage with your team. Align furniture for eye contact and spontaneous conversations to build relationships Embrace transparency. Openly share challenges and plans to gain trust and validate your team’s feelings Stay healthy for better leadership. Prioritize daily workouts, even if it means waking up early for "me" timeThings to listen for:
[02:05] Lightning round with Matt
[19:34] Advice Matt would give to his younger self
[21:23] Craigs takeaways
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"Leadership isn't just about making decisions and giving orders. It's about building resilience, mental strength, and guiding your team through adversity.” In this episode of Executive Evolution, host Craig Anderson sits down with leadership speaker and author, Scott Mautz, to discuss the essentials of becoming a mentally strong leader. Join us as Scott shares invaluable insights from his extensive research and new book, The Mentally Strong Leader. You’ll learn how to stop chasing approval, start chasing authenticity, and develop the mental strength you need to lead effectively. Tune in to learn practical tools for building resilience, making smart decisions, and maintaining a positive presence.
After You Listen:
Get your copy of Good to Great by Jim Collins
Connect with Scott on LinkedIn
Get Scott’s book, The Mentally Strong Leader
Check out Scott’s website
Connect with Craig on LinkedIn
Check out Craig’s monthly free training on holding difficult conversations
Key Takeaways:
Quit chasing approval and embrace your authenticity and trust you were chosen for a reason Build mental strength by regulating emotions, thoughts, and behaviors even in tough situations Prepare for difficult conversations by imagining sitting next to the person, not acrossThings to listen for:
[02:40] Lightning round with Scott
[06:55] The importance of mental strength in leadership
[11:12] The balance between confidence and vulnerability
[21:31] Advice Scott would give to his younger self
[24:08] Craigs takeaways
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Leadership isn't just about telling people what to do. It's about inspiring them to achieve their full potential and creating a sense of belonging and trust within your team.
In this episode of Executive Evolution, our host, Craig Anderson, is joined by Grant Calder, CEO and founder of Flyt Coaching. Grant discusses the importance of emotional connections in the workplace, how they strengthen business success, and the transformative power of asking the right questions.
Discover why building close relationships with your team matters and how coaching can lead to success.
After You Listen:
Get your copy of Coaching for Performance by John Whitmore
Connect with Grant on LinkedIn
Check out Flyt Coaching
Connect with Craig on LinkedIn
Check out Craig’s monthly free training on holding difficult conversations
Key Takeaways:
Building emotional connections with employees and colleagues is crucial for business success Leaders should embrace diverse communication styles and personalities within their teams to enhance decision-making Consistently showing care, support, and presence for team members can foster loyalty and a sense of belongingThings to listen for:
[01:33] Lightning round with Grant
[11:57] Leaders empower others
[15:04] Everything gets done through people
[21:02] Establish a sense of trust and safety in your leader
[23:36] Every leader is different, and that’s okay
[29:16] Advice Grant would give to his younger self
[34:23] Craigs takeaways
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Leadership often requires stepping out of your comfort zone. And once you do this, you’ll find growth.
In this episode of Executive Evolution, our host Craig Anderson is joined by Jason Barnaby, Founder and President of Fire Starters Inc., to dive deep into a candid conversation that peels back layers of personal and professional growth, focusing on the role of discomfort in leadership.
Join us as Jason discusses his most challenging leadership moments and why he believes being uncomfortable is not just inevitable but essential for growth.
After You Listen:
Get your copy of Tribes: We Need You to Lead Us by Seth Godin
Connect with Jason on LinkedIn
Check out Fire Starters Inc.
Connect with Craig on LinkedIn
Check out Craig’s monthly free training on holding difficult conversations
Key Takeaways:
Prioritize mental health and seek help early to prevent burnout and maintain leadership effectiveness Foster collaboration by valuing team input and allow collective ideas to shape big initiatives Admit when you're unsure and encourage your team to do the sameThings to listen for:
[02:15] Lightning round with Jason
[06:14] Embrace discomfort for personal and business growth
[18:36] Disc profiles impact leadership
[21:20] Exceed expectations, learn, adapt, become subject
[24:11] Assess sales meetings and hold one-on-ones for accountability
[27:59] Mental health and well-being matters
[29:14] Checking in on others is important
[37:31] Advice Jason would give to his younger self
[40:18] Craigs takeaways
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"Leadership isn't just about directing people on what to do. It's about inspiring them to see what they could achieve and helping them unlock that potential.”
In this episode of Executive Evolution, our host Craig Anderson is joined by Chad Schultenover, GM and COO at Meridian Hills Country Club, to share the critical importance of mentorship, strategic patience, and emotional intelligence in successful leadership.
Join us as Chad shares how leadership roles require not only understanding organizational culture but also effective communication, relationship building, and the ability to inspire and empower others.
After You Listen:
Get your copy of Leading Change by John P. Kotter
Connect with Chad on LinkedIn
Check out Meridian Hills Country Club
Connect with Craig on LinkedIn
Check out Craig’s monthly free training on holding difficult conversations
Key Takeaways:
Whether you're climbing the leadership ladder or already at the top, find a mentor to provide you with guidance and a different perspective that is crucial for personal and professional growth Understand your team's and stakeholders' needs to help craft more inclusive and effective strategies Embrace change and strategic patience for gradual and accepted improvements without alienating the teamThings to listen for:
[02:03] Lightning round with Chad
[07:48] Leadership means recognizing potential in others
[11:53] Mentorship, promotion, and transition in leadership roles is key
[18:55] New leaders should cautiously implement changes
[24:03] Emotional intelligence increases hospitality
[22:11] Advice Chad would give to his younger self
[24:00] Craigs takeaways
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Your team’s truest potential comes to life when you cultivate an environment of emotional safety.
In this episode of Executive Evolution, our host Craig Anderson is joined by Steven Gaffney, President and CEO of Steven Gaffney Company, to share invaluable insights into the heart of effective leadership. Steven shares how creating a culture where communication thrives can prevent the debilitating build-up of issues within your business and offers powerful personal anecdotes, highlighting how speaking up and addressing the unsaid not only alleviates stress but also strengthens teams.
Join us as Steven shares his masterclass for those looking to improve their leadership skills and drive meaningful change.
After You Listen:
Get your copy of Switch: How to Change Things When Change Is Hard by Chip & Dan Heath
Connect with Steven on LinkedIn
Check out Steven Gaffney Company
Connect with Craig on LinkedIn
Check out Craig’s monthly free training on holding difficult conversations
Key Takeaways:
Cultivate an emotionally safe environment to foster open communication and address problems before they escalate Encourage leaders to elicit unfiltered feedback and make accountable decisions without primarily seeking consensus Mentor and coach future leaders to promote leadership development and drive continuous innovation within the organizationThings to listen for:
[02:09] Lightning round with Steven
[07:25] Mood's have an impact on productivity and interaction
[12:17] Communication and problem-solving are crucial for success
[14:00] Seek help and support during tough times
[19:55] Seek input, but be accountable for your final decision
[23:56] Be open, stay alert, reassess and adapt
[27:37] What advice Steven would give to her younger self
[30:18] Craigs takeaways
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Leadership is not always about being center stage. It's about being able to hold other people up, help them feel supported, and guide them to success.
In this episode of Executive Evolution, our host Craig Anderson sits down with Liz Higgins, the founder and therapist at Millennial Life Counseling, to dive into her journey as a leader. Liz dives into the importance of relationships, the impact of coaching and mentorship, and the significance of self-awareness in leadership.
Join us as Liz shares her wealth of leadership experience and how to navigate the challenging waters of leadership.
After You Listen:
Get your copy of Hero on a Mission by Donald Miller
Connect with Liz on LinkedIn
Check out Millennial Life Counseling
Connect with Craig on LinkedIn
Check out Craig’s monthly free training on holding difficult conversations
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Authenticity… it’s a word we hear a lot.
And leading with authenticity is the key puzzle piece to creating a successful team.
In this episode, Kathleen Steffey, CEO and Founder of Naviga Recruiting & Executive Search, joins us to discuss the evolution of her leadership style, the impact of authentic communication on her team and clients, and the importance of maintaining one's spirit amidst the challenges of leadership.
Join us as Kathleen shares her how-to guide on leading a successful, passion-filled team.
After You Listen:
Get your copy of Geno: In Pursuit of Perfection by Geno Auriemma
Connect with Kathleen on LinkedIn
Check out Naviga Recruiting & Executive Search
Connect with Craig on LinkedIn
Check out Craig’s monthly free training on holding difficult conversations
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Becoming a successful leader begins with knowing your ‘why.’ It’s the foundation for building a strong culture and developing an effective team.
In this episode, Heather Heuman, CEO and founder of Sweet Tea Social Media Marketing, joins us to share her entrepreneurial wisdom and leadership insights. She brings a unique angle to leading a virtual team, the positives of owning your weaknesses, and understanding your personal ‘why.’
Join us as Heather shares her how-to guide on becoming the best leader you can be, while developing a team and culture that excels.
After You Listen:
Get your copy of Start with Why by Simon Sinek
Connect with Heather on LinkedIn
Check out Sweet Tea Social Marketing
Connect with Craig on LinkedIn
Check out Craig’s monthly free training on holding difficult conversations
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Roadblocks are a given when it comes to leadership. But it’s how you deal with these roadblocks that matters.
In this episode, Rachel Downey, founder, CEO, and Executive Producer of Share Your Genius, joins us to share her personal story into leadership and valuable lessons that can help us navigate our own leadership paths with more confidence and resilience.
Join us as we unpack Rachel’s 5 tips to navigating challenges, seizing opportunities, and evolving through self-awareness and intentional actions.
After You Listen:
Get your copy of The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People by Stephen Covey
Connect with Rachel on LinkedIn
Check out Share Your Genius
Connect with Craig on LinkedIn
Check out Craig’s monthly free training on holding difficult conversations
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The younger generation is the future of leadership. And it’s our responsibility to equip them with the right tools and knowledge to succeed in their leadership roles.
In this episode, professor, advisor, and performance coach, Nick Smarrelli, dives into the big challenges faced by young leaders and how to overcome them. He also discusses the the evolution of leadership in the workplace and the importance of understanding individual team members' unique traits rather than imposing a one-size-fits-all approach.
Join us as we share actionable advice for nurturing the next generation of leaders and how to develop them to become successful.
After You Listen:
Connect with Nick on LinkedIn
Connect with Craig on LinkedIn
Check out Craig’s monthly free training on holding difficult conversations
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In the fast-paced world of leadership, it's easy to get caught up in the power and status that come with the role. Leading with humility, relating to others, and demonstrating humility can create a more positive and inclusive leadership environment.
In this episode, Performance and Executive Coach, Andrea Petrone shares his invaluable insights into the challenges and lessons of transitioning into a C-suite role, particularly the importance of mindset, humility, and clear communication.
Join us as we unpack the essential attributes of successful C-suite leaders and explore the journey of evolving into an outstanding executive.
After You Listen:
Get your copy of The Five Temptations of a CEO by Patrick Lencioni
Connect with Andrea on LinkedIn
Check out The World Class Leaders Show
Follow Andrea on Youtube
Sign up for Andrea’s Newsletter
Connect with Craig on LinkedIn
Check out Craig’s monthly free training on holding difficult conversations
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