Communications - Leadership Powered by Common Sense

Leading Through Uncertainty: A Conversation with Rebecca Homkes on Survive, Reset and Thrive Introduction Well, hello again, everyone. I hope you’re having a great day, wherever you may be, whether it’s early or late in your day. Glad you could spend a moment to join us. This is Doug Thorpe, and you’re listening to Leadership […] The post Leadership SECRETS: Thrive in Uncertainty | Ep 427 first appeared on Leadership Powered by Common Sense.

Introduction Well, hello again, everyone. I’m glad you’re spending a minute to check in with us. This is Doug Thorpe, and this is another episode of The Leadership Powered by Common Sense. I’m very honored today to bring a guest who is a, author, an advisor and coach. He also has a wildly successful TEDx […] The post You Can’t Inspire Accountability in Others Until You Model It Yourself | Ep 424 first appeared on Leadership Powered by Common Sense.

How one entrepreneur transformed personal tragedy into a mission-driven organization serving 400,000 kids fighting cancer worldwide In the world of nonprofit leadership and purpose-driven entrepreneurship, few stories are as compelling as Eric Newman’s journey from childhood cancer survivor to founder of a multi-million-dollar organization that builds hope for families facing pediatric cancer. In a recent […] The post From Cancer Survivor to Purpose-Driven Entrepreneur: Eric Newman’s Journey with Rock Solid Foundation | Ep 402 first appeared on Leadership Powered by Common Sense.

In the latest episode of Leadership Powered by Common Sense, host Doug Thorpe sits down with Derek Fredrickson, an accomplished CEO and fractional Chief Operating Officer who’s helping service-based entrepreneurs break through growth barriers. Broadcasting from the heart of Paris, where he’s lived for nine years, Derek shares his unique journey from Wall Street finance […] The post Fractional COO Insights for Service-Based Entrepreneurs | Ep 398 first appeared on Leadership Powered by Common Sense.

In this episode of "Leadership Powered by Common Sense," host Doug Thorpe interviews sales and branding expert John Golden. They discuss the importance of aligning company culture with brand values, effective sales strategies, and the challenges of selling SaaS products. John shares insights from his career, emphasizing customer-centric approaches, the need for strong internal alignment, and the value of disciplined sales processes. The conversation highlights practical advice for business leaders on adapting to change, fostering customer loyalty, and leveraging technology to empower sales teams and drive growth.

In this episode of "Leadership Powered by Common Sense," host Doug Thorpe and guest Sally Mahamdeh delve into the critical issue of burnout, particularly in leadership and workplace well-being. Sally shares her personal experiences with burnout during her career at Microsoft and Google, emphasizing the impact of high-performance cultures and the COVID-19 pandemic on mental health. The discussion highlights the importance of recognizing burnout signs, the role of leadership in fostering open conversations about mental health, and practical tools for self-evaluation. Both stress the need for a supportive work environment that prioritizes well-being and meaningful connections.

In this episode of "Leadership Powered by Common Sense," host Doug Thorpe engages with Dr. Shonda Gore, an expert in leadership development with experience in corporate settings and higher education. Dr. Gore shares insights from her book "Pin Leader Path," emphasizing the importance of emotional intelligence and interpersonal skills in leadership. They discuss the significance of fostering a positive workplace culture, effective communication, and the challenges of managing diverse teams. The conversation also explores the role of artificial intelligence in organizations. Dr. Gore encourages community engagement and continuous improvement, while Doug invites listeners to interact and suggest future topics.

Navigating the Transition from Execution to Strategy In the latest episode of “Leadership Powered by Common Sense,” host Doug Thorpe engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Ashley Rudolph, an executive coach and advisor based in New York. The episode delves into the intricacies of leadership, particularly focusing on the challenges high achievers face when transitioning […] The post The Shift from Execution to Strategy: Essential Skills for Modern Leaders | Ep 389 first appeared on Leadership Powered by Common Sense.

In this episode of "Leadership Powered by Common Sense," host Doug Thorpe converses with Michael Reddington about the intricacies of leadership and communication. Reddington shares his journey from special education teacher and baseball coach to expert in non-confrontational interview techniques. The discussion emphasizes the importance of creating a psychologically safe environment where team members feel comfortable sharing honest feedback. Reddington highlights the need for leaders to frame conversations to encourage openness and self-reflect on their communication clarity. Practical steps for enhancing leadership communication are explored, aiming to foster a culture of transparency and trust within teams.

In this episode of "Leadership Powered by Common Sense," Doug Thorpe hosts Chuck Wisner, a leadership advisor and coach with a background in architecture. They discuss the concept of conscious conversations in leadership, emphasizing the importance of clarity and intentionality in communication. Chuck shares his journey from architecture to leadership advising, highlighting how effective communication can resolve conflicts and foster collaboration. They explore the transition from management to leadership, the significance of creating a safe space for dialogue, and the need for leaders to be mindful of their words and authority. Chuck also introduces his book, which outlines different types of essential leadership conversations.

In this episode of "Leadership Powered by Common Sense," host Doug Thorpe and guest Vince Covino delve into the transformative journey of leadership and personal purpose. Vince shares his experience of leaving the Mormon faith, which led to an identity crisis and a deeper understanding of himself. The discussion highlights the importance of authentic leadership, self-discovery, and empathy in fostering a positive organizational culture. Vince emphasizes the need for leaders to engage in inner work, address past wounds, and cultivate self-worth independent of external validation. The episode concludes with a call to action for leaders to prioritize genuine connections and personal growth.

In this episode of "Leadership Powered by Common Sense," host Doug Thorpe engages with Dr. Greg Stewart on the importance of "conscious conversations" in leadership. Dr. Stewart shares his journey from ministry to becoming a counselor and executive coach, emphasizing emotional intelligence's role in effective leadership. The discussion covers how leaders can foster open communication, critical thinking, and collaboration while addressing biases and emotional influences. Dr. Stewart introduces practical techniques like "I Cubed" (Information, Interpretation, Intensity) to enhance communication and decision-making. The episode underscores creating a culture of openness and adaptability in organizational settings.

In this episode of "Leadership Powered by Common Sense," host Doug Thorpe discusses workplace safety and civility with guest David Dilger, a lawyer and co-founder of a law firm focused on creating safe and productive workplaces. David shares insights from his background in employment law and human resources, emphasizing the importance of proactive measures to prevent workplace disputes and the detrimental effects of incivility on employee performance. They explore the biological responses to workplace stress, the impact of management styles on employee well-being, and practical strategies for fostering a positive organizational culture through self-awareness, respectful communication, and balanced leadership.

In this episode of "Leadership Powered by Common Sense," host Doug Thorpe discusses the critical role of mindset in leadership with guest Jeni Jonte. Jeni shares her journey from physical therapy to personal development coaching, highlighting the transformative impact of Bob Proctor's teachings on her life. The conversation delves into the importance of understanding paradigms, conscious and subconscious thinking, and self-image in leadership. Jeni emphasizes the need to recognize and challenge limiting beliefs to achieve personal and professional growth. The episode underscores that effective leadership is deeply rooted in a positive and proactive mindset.

In this episode of "Leadership Powered by Common Sense," host Doug Thorpe and guest Steve Cadigan delve into the evolving landscape of work and leadership. They discuss the impact of increased turnover rates, technology, and generational shifts on employee expectations and retention. Steve emphasizes the need for leaders to adapt by investing in employee development and creating supportive work environments. The conversation highlights the importance of rethinking talent strategies to accommodate shorter employee tenures and the benefits of fostering a culture of continuous learning. Doug and Steve advocate for a collaborative leadership approach to navigate the complexities of the modern workplace.

Overcoming Founderitis: A Deep Dive into Effective Leadership for Business Growth In the latest episode of “Leadership Powered by Common Sense,” host Doug Thorpe engages in a compelling conversation with guest Nico van de Venne about the challenges faced by founders as their businesses grow. The focal point of their discussion is a phenomenon Nico […] The post Breaking Free from Founderitis: A Path to Empowered Leadership | Ep 371 first appeared on Leadership Powered by Common Sense.

In this episode of "Leadership Powered by Common Sense," host Doug Thorpe explores the concept of human hacking with guest Chris Hadnagy, an expert in ethical social engineering. Chris shares his journey from ethical hacking to understanding human behavior, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, emotional intelligence, and open communication in leadership. The discussion highlights how leaders can foster trust, empathy, and collaboration within their teams. Chris provides anecdotes and practical advice on improving interpersonal skills, addressing challenges, and creating a supportive work environment. The episode underscores the power of understanding human behavior to enhance leadership effectiveness.

In this episode of "Leadership Powered by Common Sense," host Doug Thorpe and guest Phillip Hilt discuss the challenges and opportunities faced by mid-career professionals, particularly those in leadership roles. Phillip shares his journey from blue-collar jobs to leadership positions, emphasizing the importance of personal development and branding. They explore strategies for building visibility within organizations and the shift towards individualized leadership styles. Phillip highlights the role of senior leadership in driving cultural change and fostering a collaborative environment. The episode concludes with practical advice for mid-career professionals seeking to advance their careers and establish a strong personal brand.

Navigating Leadership and Decision-Making in Modern Business: Insights from “Leadership Powered by Common Sense” In the latest episode of “Leadership Powered by Common Sense,” host Doug Thorpe engages in a compelling conversation with Bruce Whitfield, a seasoned expert in decision-making and leadership. With a career spanning over 20 years and approximately 50,000 interviews with successful […] The post From Information Overload to Clarity: Essential Skills for Modern Leaders | Ep 368 first appeared on Leadership Powered by Common Sense.

In this episode of "Leadership Powered by Common Sense," host Doug Thorpe converses with Tia (Twanda Young), a retired brigadier general and trailblazer in military leadership. Tia shares her journey from humble beginnings to a distinguished 33-year military career, emphasizing the importance of mentorship and leadership development. She discusses her book, "Dare to Lead Differently: Chew on This 16 Bites for Bold Leaders," which offers leadership strategies and self-awareness insights. The episode highlights the significance of self-reflection, maintaining focus on core objectives, and fostering open communication within teams, providing valuable lessons for leaders in all sectors.

In this episode of "Leadership Powered by Common Sense," host Doug Thorpe converses with Irene Riad, an expert in corporate talent development and coaching. They explore the foundational principle that effective leadership begins with self-leadership. Irene shares her journey from corporate talent development to coaching, emphasizing the importance of self-awareness, mindset, and the renewal process in leadership. They discuss how personal stories and identities shape leadership effectiveness and the significance of aligning values and purpose with actions. The episode underscores the importance of continuous self-discovery and renewal for leaders to inspire and positively influence others.

In this episode of "Leadership Powered by Common Sense," host Doug Thorpe and guest Kevin Torf delve into project management leadership. Kevin shares his evolution from a dictatorial style to a collaborative approach, emphasizing the importance of communication and psychological safety. They discuss the "push-pull" dynamic in leadership, the necessity of meticulous planning, and the benefits of regular reflection. Kevin highlights the inefficiency of multitasking and the value of achieving early wins. The episode underscores the significance of fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement within teams, providing actionable insights for effective project management and leadership.

In this episode of "Leadership Powered by Common Sense," host Doug Thorpe converses with Isabelle Fortin, a Canadian Air Force veteran, about the contrasts between military and corporate leadership. Isabelle shares insights from her military experience, emphasizing the importance of leadership training, recognizing individual contributions, and fostering a collaborative environment. They critique the overuse of command-and-control styles in business and advocate for adaptable, inclusive leadership. Personal anecdotes illustrate their points, highlighting how military principles can enhance corporate settings. The episode encourages listeners to reflect on their leadership styles and incorporate these valuable lessons into their practices.

In this episode of "Leadership Powered by Common Sense," Doug Thorpe hosts James I. Bond, who introduces his concept of "brain glue," focusing on the emotional aspects of marketing. James explains how emotional connections make products memorable and successful, sharing insights from his advertising career. He highlights examples like the rebranding of "Chicken Soup for the Soul" and "Men Are from Mars, Women Are from Venus," emphasizing the power of emotional selling over logical arguments. The episode underscores the importance of creativity in branding and provides practical tips for businesses to enhance their marketability through emotional engagement.

In this episode of "Leadership Powered by Common Sense," host Doug Thorp converses with Stephen Blue, a seasoned CEO in the rail industry. Stephen shares his leadership journey, emphasizing the importance of organizational culture, clear communication, and accountability. He recounts lessons learned from both successful and failed ventures, highlighting the critical role of validating assumptions. The discussion explores the impact of confirmation bias, the necessity of aligning organizational values with practices, and the challenges of sustaining growth. Stephen underscores the need for leaders to foster a supportive culture and remain open to continuous learning and improvement.

In this episode of "Leadership Powered by Common Sense," Doug Thorpe hosts Heather Jerrehian, a futurist and entrepreneur with a rich background in Silicon Valley. They explore Heather's entrepreneurial journey, emphasizing the importance of evolving roles within growing organizations. Heather discusses her book "Sail to Scale," which guides startups through common pitfalls. The conversation also delves into the impact of AI on the workforce, stressing the need for understanding employee skills and maintaining a human element in AI-driven decisions. Heather's insights offer a roadmap for leaders navigating the future of work and organizational growth.

In this episode of "Leadership Powered by Common Sense," host Doug Thorpe engages with Torben Noerby, CEO of People and Performance, to discuss leadership, team performance, and organizational culture. Torben shares insights from his book, "The Contextual Leader," emphasizing the need for leaders to adapt their styles to different contexts. They explore the challenges of cultural change within organizations and the importance of leaders being relatable and flexible. The conversation underscores that effective leadership is contextual, requiring adaptability and continuous improvement. Doug also introduces a special coaching program, "Vision 25," aimed at individual growth and development.

In this episode of "Leadership Powered by Common Sense," host Doug Thorpe discusses mental health with guest Pat Broe. Pat shares his personal journey, including a suicide attempt at 16, and his path to recovery, which inspired his book "The Real Confident You." The conversation highlights the impact of social media on youth, the importance of understanding life inputs, and the need for empathy and support in communities. They also discuss the role of the educational system in building resilience and the significance of leaders taking care of their own mental health to effectively support their teams.

Leadership and Company Culture: Insights from Ken Wilcox on “Leadership Powered by Common Sense” In a recent episode of “Leadership Powered by Common Sense,” host Doug Thorpe engages in a compelling conversation with Ken Wilcox, a seasoned veteran of the banking industry and a leadership thinker. The discussion delves into the critical role of company […] The post The Greatest Challenge in Leadership: Aligning Values and Actions first appeared on Leadership Powered by Common Sense.

Unlocking Leadership and Personal Growth: Insights from Brad Dalton on “Leadership Powered by Common Sense” In a recent episode of “Leadership Powered by Common Sense,” host Doug Thorpe engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Brad Dalton, an author and mental performance coach. The episode delves into themes of leadership, personal growth, and the transformative power […] The post How Mindset and Personal Growth Shape Effective Leadership first appeared on Leadership Powered by Common Sense.

In this episode of "Leadership Powered by Common Sense," host @Doug Thorpe engages with guest @Gregg Murphy, who shares his extensive sales experience and insights from his book, "Sales Sucks but Sales Sucks." They discuss effective sales strategies, the challenges of building high-performing sales teams, and the importance of a structured sales process. Key themes include leveraging referrals, focusing on mid performers for growth, and the significance of hiring the right sales leaders. Greg emphasizes the value of a competitive nature and coachability in sales roles, offering practical advice for enhancing sales efforts and achieving greater success.

In this episode of "Leadership Powered by Common Sense," @Doug Thorpe hosts @John Lamy to discuss globally conscious leadership. Lamy defines such leaders as those who consider the broader impacts of their decisions on society and the environment. The conversation highlights the importance of aligning corporate culture with sustainability and ethical values. Lamy predicts a future divide between companies that adapt to sustainable practices and those that cling to outdated models. The episode underscores the role of younger generations in demanding corporate responsibility and the need for systemic thinking to address climate change and foster a sustainable future.

Leadership Powered by Common Sense: Integrating Sustainability and Innovation in Business In the latest episode of “Leadership Powered by Common Sense,” host Doug Thorpe engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Vanessa Thompson, an expert in sustainability, startups, entrepreneurship, and finance. Together, they explore the critical intersection of sustainability and innovation in the business landscape, emphasizing […] The post The Greatest Secrets to Merging Sustainability with Business Innovation | Ep 344 first appeared on Leadership Powered by Common Sense.

Leadership Powered by Common Sense: Insights from Mosongo Moukwa on Effective Leadership In the latest episode of “Leadership Powered by Common Sense,” hosted by Doug Thorpe, the conversation delves into the intricacies of effective leadership. The episode features Mosongo Moukwa, a seasoned leader with a diverse background across various industries, who shares his journey and […] The post Empowering Others: The Key to Effective Leadership in Today’s Workplace first appeared on Leadership Powered by Common Sense.

In this episode of "Leadership Powered by Common Sense," Doug Thorpe discusses the evolving landscape of cybersecurity with expert Tammy Klotz, recently named one of the top 50 women to admire in the field. Tammy shares her career journey, insights on sophisticated cyber threats, and the importance of robust training and awareness within organizations. She emphasizes the critical role of leadership in managing cybersecurity risks, effective communication with stakeholders, and the responsibilities of boards. The conversation highlights the necessity of a solid data protection strategy and the dual nature of AI in enhancing and threatening business operations.

In this episode of "Leadership Powered by Common Sense," Doug Thorpe hosts Leonard Scheiner, a branding and marketing expert for professional service firms. Leonard shares his journey from a small town in California to becoming a Chief Marketing Officer and founding his own PR agency. The discussion emphasizes the importance of branding and marketing for small businesses, particularly in the professional services sector. Key insights include understanding client needs, tailoring communication, creating personal connections, leveraging media exposure, and the power of storytelling. Leonard also offers practical training and resources for service-based business owners to enhance their marketing strategies.

Unlocking Business Growth with Virtual Assistants In the latest episode of “Leadership Powered by Common Sense,” host Doug Thorpe engages in a compelling conversation with Blendi Muriqi, an entrepreneur who has successfully scaled his business by leveraging virtual assistants (VAs). This episode is a treasure trove of insights for business owners looking to optimize their […] The post Delegate to Elevate: Mastering the Art of Virtual Assistance in Business | Ep 335 first appeared on Leadership Powered by Common Sense.

Navigating the Transition from Corporate Life to Independent Consulting In a recent episode of “Leadership Powered by Common Sense,” host Doug Thorpe engages in a compelling conversation with Amy Rasdal, who shares her journey from a corporate career in technology and medical devices to becoming an independent consultant. This episode delves into the complexities of […] The post The Journey from Corporate Identity to Consulting Success | Ep 331 first appeared on Leadership Powered by Common Sense.

The Power of Empathetic Leadership: Insights from Doug Thorpe and Erin Thorp In the latest episode of “Leadership Powered by Common Sense,” host Doug Thorpe delves into the transformative concept of empathetic leadership with guest Erin Thorp, an expert in the field. This episode is a treasure trove of insights and actionable advice for leaders […] The post Can Empathetic Leadership Transform Your Team Dynamics? | Ep 330 first appeared on Leadership Powered by Common Sense.

Mastering the Art of Personal Storytelling in Public Speaking In a recent episode of “Leadership Powered by Common Sense,” host Doug Thorpe engages in a compelling conversation with Leslie Fiorenzo, an expert in personal storytelling and public speaking. The episode delves into the transformative power of storytelling for business leaders and entrepreneurs, offering practical advice […] The post Captivate Any Audience with Authenticity | Ep 327 first appeared on Leadership Powered by Common Sense.

The Power of Mindset in Leadership: Insights from Jeremy Fouts In a recent episode of “Leadership Powered by Common Sense,” host Doug Thorpe engages in a compelling conversation with Jeremy Fouts, a seasoned entrepreneur from Dallas. The discussion delves into the critical themes of leadership, personal development, and the transformative power of mindset. This blog […] The post Conquer Your Mind, Conquer Your World | Ep 326 first appeared on Leadership Powered by Common Sense.

Building a Culture of Excellence In a recent episode of “Leadership Powered by Common Sense,” host Doug Thorpe and guest Dr. Jeff Standridge delve into the intricacies of leadership and its pivotal role in shaping organizational culture. This comprehensive discussion offers valuable insights into the elements that contribute to a thriving workplace environment and provides […] The post From Chaos to Clarity: Mastering Leadership in Complex Times | Ep 323 first appeared on Leadership Powered by Common Sense.

Unlocking Team Potential In the latest episode of “Leadership Powered by Common Sense,” host Doug Thorpe delves into the intricacies of team leadership with guest Regina Huber. Regina, a seasoned leader with a diverse background, introduces her “New Paradigm Leadership Framework,” which aims to build happier and more engaged teams. This blog post will break […] The post Unleashing Team Potential: The Heart of Leadership | Ep 318 first appeared on Leadership Powered by Common Sense.

Navigating Business Growth In the latest episode of “Leadership Powered by Common Sense,” host Doug Thorpe engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Rico Pena, a seasoned expert in behavior analysis and people development. Together, they delve into the complexities of business growth, the critical transitions that leaders must navigate, and the importance of understanding human […] The post How Can Understanding Human Behavior Transform Your Leadership Style? | Ep 314 first appeared on Leadership Powered by Common Sense.

Leadership and Marketing Insights from Steve Robinson: Building the Chick-fil-A Brand In a recent episode of “Leadership Powered by Common Sense,” host Doug Thorpe sat down with Steve Robinson, the former Chief Marketing Officer of Chick-fil-A, to delve into the journey and strategies that have shaped the iconic brand. This comprehensive blog post will break […] The post Covert Cows and Chick-fil-A | Ep 305 first appeared on Leadership Powered by Common Sense.

Mastering the Art of Business Exit Planning: Insights from Doug Thorpe and Rich Hall In a recent episode of “Leadership Powered by Common Sense,” host Doug Thorpe sat down with Rich Hall, a certified exit planner, to delve into the intricacies of planning for a business exit. This comprehensive discussion sheds light on the importance […] The post The Most Critical Factors for Maximizing Business Value Before an Exit | Ep 303 first appeared on Leadership Powered by Common Sense.

Achieving Entrepreneurial Freedom and Profitable Independence: Insights from Richard Walsh In a recent episode of the “Leadership Powered by Common Sense” podcast, host Doug Thorpe sat down with Richard Walsh to discuss the journey to achieve freedom and profitable independence as an entrepreneur. Richard Walsh, a former US Marine turned entrepreneur, shared his personal experiences, […] The post Overcoming Invisible Walls: A Guide to Entrepreneurial Success | Ep 302 first appeared on Leadership Powered by Common Sense.

Celebrating 300 Episodes of “Leadership Powered by Common Sense”: The Importance of Process Management in Business Welcome to the 300th episode of “Leadership Powered by Common Sense,” a podcast dedicated to exploring practical leadership strategies and insights. Hosted by Doug Thorpe, this milestone episode features a special guest, Layla Pomper, an expert in process management. […] The post How Can Process Management Transform Your Business? | Ep 300 first appeared on Leadership Powered by Common Sense.

Navigating the Complex World of M&A: Insights from an Industry Veteran As the host of “Leadership Powered by Common Sense,” I’ve had the privilege of engaging with some of the most insightful minds in various industries. In a recent episode, I sat down with Richard Parker, a seasoned expert in the mergers and acquisitions (M&A) […] The post Unveiling the Secrets of Successful Business Acquisitions | Ep 291 first appeared on Leadership Powered by Common Sense.

From ICU Nurse to Entrepreneurial Consultant: A Journey of Leadership and Process Mastery The Backstory of a Business Growth Expert Hello, everyone! I’m Doug Thorpe, host of Leadership Powered by Common Sense, and I recently had the pleasure of interviewing Donna Dube (Du-bay), a consultant who specializes in operations and process performance. In this blog […] The post The Most Common Pitfalls Entrepreneurs Face in Managing Operations | Ep 287 first appeared on Leadership Powered by Common Sense.