Small Things Make A Big Difference

Leadership isn’t about authority—it’s about connection.What if the real secret isn’t telling people what to do… but helping them believe why it matters?Loved this conversation with Scott Youmans (VP of Sales at Tarsus) on empathy, influence, and a simple What–Why–How–Why framework that inspires real action.Plus… a great story about knocking on doors to make friends as a kid. That says it all 🚲

Be more Buffalo!Lately, I’ve been noticing a pattern in both leadership and life:When challenges come, we either lean in… or we run with the storm.In this episode, I share a simple but powerful analogy from growing up in Southern Alberta, the difference between buffalo and cows, and what it teaches us about facing hard conversations, decisions, and moments that matter.If you’re navigating something right now, this one might resonate.And if someone comes to mind who could use it......please pass it along.

In this episode of Small Things Make a Big Difference, I sit down with leadership expert, bestselling author, and Culture Works co-founder Adrian Gostick.You may know Adrian from The Carrot Principle, All In, or Leading with Gratitude. But in this conversation, we go deeper.We explore:Why culture is “the perfume in the air” — and how leaders shape it every dayThe three simple, low-cost actions that immediately improve engagementThe surprising lesson Adrian learned about gratitude as a senior executiveWhy specificity matters more than generic praiseHow hybrid work is reshaping culture (and what great leaders are doing about it)His 15-year journey to writing his first fiction novel, Jack Slade and the Butcher BirdOne of my favorite takeaways?The best leaders aren’t the smartest in the room — they’re the best at asking questions and bringing out the brilliance in others.This conversation is a powerful reminder that small habits — listening well, sharing future vision, expressing specific gratitude — create extraordinary cultures.And yes… we talk Beatles too.If you care about culture, leadership, and becoming more intentional in how you show up — this one’s for you.

New episode: When Truth Becomes CareOne of the hardest leadership lessons?If you truly care about people, you have to be willing to tell them the truth. In this episode of Small Things Make a Big Difference, I sit down with Gaby Bourbara President of AstraZeneca Canada, to talk about values, courageous conversations, and why honesty—when rooted in care—is one of the most human leadership acts there is. From coaching kids’ hockey to leading complex organizations, this conversation is a powerful reminder that care without truth isn’t leadership… and truth without care doesn’t land.

Leadership, Hand-Dipped with Rod Holt (Global Leader Group) : What chocolate, mistakes, and generosity teach us about leading teams.In this special holiday episode, I sit down with my brother Rod to explore how a simple family tradition, hand-dipping chocolates reveals powerful leadership lessons. Together, we unpack what mistakes can teach us, why generosity builds trust, and how intentional rituals create belonging and stronger teams. It’s a reminder that leadership isn’t about grand gestures, but small, consistent acts done with care.As we close, we also want to acknowledge that this time of year can be hard. Many people are navigating job loss, uncertainty, or transition. If that’s you or someone you know—Rod and I would love to help. We’re offering a few complimentary coaching sessions where you can think out loud with us and get support during this season. The first eight people who reach out to us on LinkedIn will be set up for a session. And if you know someone who could use this right now, please share this episode with them.Small things really do make a big difference.

In this episode, Sasha Koloskov from AstraZeneca helps us rethink leadership at the jagged frontier of AI. Together, we dive into how leaders can stay soulful and human while using AI wisely, and why pausing, reflecting, and redefining roles between humans and machines is essential for creating safety, purpose, and even “superhuman” performance in our teams.A timely and important discussion as AI reshapes the world of work at an unprecedented pace.

New Thanksgiving episode! 🦃In just 3 minutes, I share three simple ways to be thankful , no journals, no stress, just small habits that can lift your day.A micro-moment.A specific thank-you.And one thing you appreciate about… you.A perfect gratitude reset for the holiday season.Thankful for this community.

In this episode of Small Things Make a Big Difference, I sit down with Tony Ramy, Executive Vice President at Mayne Pharma, whose leadership philosophy blends high care with high accountability.Tony shares the small but powerful habits behind his success, from winning the morning with disciplined routines to intentionally hitting the decline button to create space for what matters most: developing people.You’ll hear stories of humble leadership learned from immigrant parents, insights on balancing empathy with performance, the art of radical candor, and how to coach individuals into greatness they can’t yet see in themselves.If you want to lead with more energy, clarity, courage, and humanity—this one’s for you.

What if great leadership wasn’t about making more decisions, but knowing which ones really matter?In this week’s episode of Small Things Make a Big Difference, I sit down with Mike Menta, CEO of Red Nucleus, to explore what he’s learned in his first year leading a fast-growing global company. From Jeff Bezos’ “two tiers of decisions” to the art of empowering others, Mike shares how he’s building a culture where people love both the work they do and the place they do it.We talk about:- How to know when to decide — and when to let go-Why happy people drive business performance-The surprising power of compartmentalization and being “in the moment”-What it means to really care about your people — at work and at homeIt’s a conversation about leadership, balance, and the small choices that shape extraordinary results.

In this week’s episode of Small Things Make a Big Difference, I sit down with Tamara Driol, Chief Human Resources Officer at Kedrion, to explore why people are the heartbeat of every business. Tamara shares her perspective on building cultures where individuals feel valued, connected, and inspired to make an impact.We also have some fun exploring her Italian roots — from her favorite places to visit and personal style, to (of course) her love of gelato. 🍨👉 Tune in for a thoughtful and inspiring conversation on leadership, people, and the small things that truly make a big difference.

Your career path isn’t a straight line—it’s a winding trail full of twists, turns, and messy moments. And that’s exactly what makes it powerful.In the latest episode of Small Things Make a Big Difference, I share lessons from my time at Merlin Entertainments and why “Career paths are not an exact science.”🎧 Tune in to hear how embracing uncertainty, leaning into your values, and making space for connection can shape not just your career—but your life.

One of the greatest pleasures in doing this podcast is being able to reconnect with old colleagues. I know Sofia from my days at AstraZeneca and now she is CEO of Oncopeptides AB, a biotech company focused on research, development and commercialisation of therapies for difficult-to-treat cancers. As with anything worthwhile the journey hasn’t always been easy, and Sofia talks about being bold, curious and driven. About dreaming big, and being inquisitive about the people you work with - leaning into their strengths and giving them the right tasks to help them and the business excel. Sofia is living proof that there 'ain't no mountain high enough' and also that there 'ain't no frozen lake cold enough' for some wild swimming.

Trust - it's the foundation of every great workplace. Michael C. Bush, CEO of Great Place To Work, knows this better than anyone. As the leader of the organisation behind the Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For list, Michael has spent years studying what makes organisations truly exceptional.   Join us for an illuminating conversation as we deep-dive into the foundations of building exceptional workplace cultures. Michael reveals how trust serves as the true barometer of organisational health, explaining that without it, there can be no genuine engagement or job satisfaction.   As the leader of the world's most trusted authority on workplace culture, Michael shares profound insights on how fairness emerges as the key lever in building trust. We'll explore the transformative power of authentic listening, transparent communication, and the importance of creating an environment where employees feel genuinely cared for and valued. Learn why being a great leader isn't about having all the answers – it's about asking the right questions.

Happy New Year! I'm joined by Howard Yu, who has the unique title of LEGO Professor of Management and Innovation at the IMD Business School, for a brilliant conversation about being future ready, slowing down rather than constantly chasing the next best thing, and how, like Howard's love of jazz music, business is collaborative, dynamic, curious and often requires us to improvise. #Leadership #MemoriesMatter #Smallthingsmakeabigdifference #HowardYu #IMD #MilesDavis

2025 is almost in the rearview mirror—so let’s make this holiday season count! It’s not about perfect gifts or Pinterest-worthy decor; it’s about connection, quirky traditions, and memories that make you laugh (or cringe). Want to spread some holiday magic? Tune in to the latest episode of Small Things Make a Big Difference: Making the Holidays Meaningful: Small Traditions, Big Impact.

Welcome to this week's episode of "Small Things Make a Big Difference," where we dive into the enchanting world of Merlin Entertainments with this exclusive conversation with Cassie Fairclough, the General Manager of Merlin's Phoenix attractions, and Alec Posta from the LEGO Master Model Builder workshop. Cassie shares her management journey – the transition from peer to manager and embracing an "all for one", collaborative mentality within her team. Alec gives us a peek behind the curtain of the LEGO Master Model Builder workshop. He highlights the significance of keeping the end goal in mind – creating joy, excitement, and enthusiasm for visitors. They both talk about how using mistakes as learning opportunities has been crucial in their personal growth and leadership style and how maintaining a focus on guest experience shapes their decision-making and drives innovation in their respective roles.  You can also watch along with this episode, and I urge you to marvel in Alec's creations. https://vimeo.com/1029675269/3edf625d8e?share=copy Follow Alec here https://www.tiktok.com/@masterbuilder_alec?lang=en https://www.youtube.com/@masterbuilderalec And don't forget to like and subscribe!!

In this episode I chat to a true star in the Merlin Entertainments firmament - leadership and business management apprentice, Vineeta Sandhu, who talks about life working at an actual castle (Merlin’s Warwick Castle), the true essence of leadership, the power of networking and the bravery to be open to opportunities. We also discuss maintaining a positive mindset, and just how much hot chocolate is too much hot chocolate… I refer to Vineeta as wise beyond her years, but I think you’ll agree - Vineeta is just wise. Visit Warwick Castle this Christmas #Smallthingsmakeabigdifference #Leadership #MemoriesMatter #Networking #WarwickCastle #Coldplay  Don't forget to hit 'subscribe'!

Welcome to a brand-new season of Small Things Make A Big Difference. We have some great conversations coming up over the next few months. To kick off, I sat down with Caroline Casey, the founder of The Valuable 500, an amazing initiative aimed at putting disability on the business leadership agenda. After Caroline recovers from the shock of riding Thorpe Park’s new Hyperia ride we delve into actionable strategies that organisations can implement to create more inclusive workplaces, enhancing both employee satisfaction and guest experiences. Caroline’s personal story highlights the importance of authenticity and vulnerability in leadership, encouraging listeners to embrace their unique journeys. It’s truly inspiring. Learn about the work of The Valuable 500 here Come and ride Hyperia  #Leadership #MemoriesMatter #Smallthingsmakeabigdifference #TheValuable500 #CarolineCasey #DollyParton #Hyperia #ThorpePark

Discover three powerful leadership lessons drawn from the nail-biting final match of my sons volleyball tournament. It is a short but powerful episode that is designed to help you reflect on your own experiences of adversity and growth.

🎙️ Exciting News: Join us for an insightful podcast episode with a remarkable guest, Fiona Eastwood recorded on the iconic London Eye! 🎡🌆🌟 In this episode, Fiona delves into the captivating world of leadership and the profound impact of memories. Discover the hidden gems of leadership skills, and learn why memories play a critical role in shaping our leadership journeys. Fiona Eastwood shares her wisdom and experiences, shedding light on the power of effective leadership and how our memories can be the guiding stars on our path to success. Don't miss this enlightening conversation – it's a podcast you won't want to forget! 🚀 Stay tuned for this thought-provoking discussion that could transform the way you perceive leadership and memories. #Leadership #MemoriesMatter #Smallthingsmakeabigdifference #FionaEastwood

Diane Neville is the Chief People Officer for Shake Shack Enterprises and shares how her background and up bringing has shaped who she is today and how in todays organizations Culture = Care. Enjoy this episode and make a note of one small thing you will do different that will make a big difference in the cultures you are trying to influence.

This week is about discovering what makes a memory and the introduction to a new phase for me and my family. Please share what small things make for a great memory?

In this episode I interview a really good friend who recently published a book. Exceptional: Being the Exception to the Rule.  it reveals 14 life lessons that will equip you as well as challenge you to chart and navigate your own path to success. There may be no secret formula for living a life of passion and purpose, but success does leave clues. Enjoy this fun interview and I hope you walk away with one small thing you can apply that will make a big difference.

Florent Edouard is an out loud thinker that loves the challenge of building teams, shaping organizational culture, and innovating through the power of causing people to think different. I love the phrase he uses in this episode "Respectfully Challenge". Enjoy this episode and ask yourself what small thing are you doing this week to respectfully challenge people to think different people?

One of the most important aspects of life is tradition. In this short but yet powerful episode you will discover one of the small traditions that have made a big impact in my life, my daughters, and many others.  I hope you take a moment and ask yourself, what are the leadership traditions that you are doing that are making a difference? 

I can't think of a better way to start 2023 than listening to CEO, Michelle Werner share how purpose, authenticity, and recalibrating what is possible has helped her navigate her leadership journey.   My favorite part of the interview is when she talks about her son and what is happening in his life and how this fuels what she is doing for patients all over the world.  Enjoy this episode and ask yourself, what is one small thing I can do this week to move closer to my purpose?

I love this episode. James Davies is a world class recognised osteopath, performance coach and massage therapist and shares leadership lessons as we talk about his new book Body.  His leadership lessons on resilience, service, and mindset that anything is possible is contagious.  Enjoy this episode and think about the small things you will do this month that will help your energy and your leadership journey

Happy Thanksgiving. I am grateful for each one of you. Take time this week to be thankful

"If you see it....You can become it"  This weeks episode is a tribute to National Hispanic Heritage Month. Limarys Perez shares her insights into why this is such an important event and her incredible leadership story.  Three things I am taking away: 1. If you see it...You can become it (Have a vision of who you are becoming) 2. Don't be afraid to say yes 3. Get out of your comfort zone

"Sometimes it's the journey that teaches you a lot about your destination" -Drake This week's episode I share insights from the 100 mile bike ride my wife and I experienced on the weekend.  - Look for people to help you along the way - Leadership is a privilege - take the time to be prepared and make the journey for others amazing - What's Most Important, don't lose focus on what really matters Which lesson resonates with you the most? 

How can we cultivate and sustain an optimal mindset at a time when we are dealing with so much political, economic, and sometimes personal upheaval? This week's episode is a discussion with Joe Nabrotzky who gives us a very simple and practical way of helping us process information and be more deliberate in our beliefs, actions, which ultimately will impact our results. 

Reggie is a Technologist, Philanthropist, and Business Professional focused on utilizing his breadth of knowledge to create win-win solutions for people who cross his path. As you listen to this episode you will be amazed and how intentional Reggie is in his leadership journey and the impact he is having in the world. Find your GPS (Goals, Purpose, Super Powers) and much more during this episode. I hope you have as much fun listening as I did recording. 

Eric is a sales leader with a tremendous track record of success and is a well respected expert in the technology industry. He started a podcast on culture 2 years ago and shares some of those insights on this episode. One of the best things of this interview is Eric shares insights from a book he is working on and the reality of how we all struggle....... and that is okay. 

“The future depends on what we do in the present.” - Mahatma Gandhi This week's episode I share a few leadership lessons learned while trekking with just over hundred youth for three days.  Find out why:  1. Leadership is all about the people 2. Everyone on at some point will push, pull, or sit 3. Do hard things with your team - it will make you stronger, better, and more unified.  Enjoy 😎

Don't compare your chapter 1 to someone else's chapter 20. This weeks episode is small but the lesson are big 😎

Dr. Karyn Gordon shares how we all can be leaders who are confident, productive, and highly energized by following a few simple steps. Take a listen and share. Also take sometime to watch her recent Tedx talk: https://www.ted.com/talks/dr_karyn_gordon_why_confidence_is_the_secret_to_great_leaders_at_work_home Be amazing this week!

Clark Maxwell former CEO of Chatham Financial shares his unique leadership formula of high expectation and high love and how the balance between the two is a critical piece of the puzzle in every aspect of his life. Enjoy this insightful conversation and ask yourself - what is my leadership formula? 

This week's episode is short but will provide some insight on how we can all benefit from being clipped in and why going through some personal recalibration is helpful for everybody. 

Not only does Fraser Hall ride a bike - he also understands that today more than ever belonging matters 😀. This weeks episode is a must listen. Fraser Hall is the president of Biogen's Intercontinental region and shares insights, strategies, things he would do different, and his favorite song - all of which will make you want to be a better leader.  

Lorna Ewart is passionate about how scientific data generated in the laboratory translates to the clinic and increases the probability of success of new medicines. She is also an amazing leader that strives to learn something new everyday and is an example of how courage has helped her make key decisions in her career. Ask yourself are you bored? What do you need to do different to ensure you are learning, growing, and reaching your purpose as a leader. 

Maryna Storrs was born in Russia and raised in Ukraine.  She shares valuable insights for listeners to think about during this Ukraine crisis. This episode has so many highlights but what I loved most about the interview, was her practical tips on how each of us can get involved.  1. Stay educated 2. Find ways to support 3. Hug someone today This week, I would like to challenge each of us to take one small tip from Maryna to help make this world a better place. 

"Progress is impossible without change, and those who cannot change their minds cannot change anything." - George Bernard Shaw. This weeks' episode comprises of insights from a recent trip to Saudi Arabia. Adam Rampton (Senior managing partner at Global Leader Group) and Abdulmajeed Albalushi (Founder & CEO at elm Platform). This short but powerful episode will challenge you to think different, encourage you to pivot when things to go according to plan, and be open to meeting new people. 

I love this week's episode!  Rashad Drakeford shares his daily 5 questions that he asks himself so that he is intentional in his daily interactions and how he is leading. Rashad not only leads with love but he demonstrates a level of authenticity we can all learn from.  What are your 5 daily questions

Simply put Nate Randle is an optimist, people-first leader, team builder, collaborator and brand storyteller. He is always what I like to call a new brand of leadership that organizations desperately need. As CEO of Gabb Wireless Nate takes lessons he learned from his Mom at a very young age and leads from his heart.  Take a listen and ask yourself - what is your brand of leadership?

Ask yourself, am I running forward or am I running back to my comfort zone?  This week I give thanks to AstraZeneca, share a life lesson I learned from a fox and share three small things I am working on for 2022. 1. Use your time wisely 2. Increase your personal energy 3. Smarter vs. Smarter goals Enjoy the episode 

Reframing is a way of changing the way you look at something and, thus, changing your experience of it. This week Rebekah Martin is absolutely brilliant in the insight she gives on her own growth as a leader and why reframing is something she is working on in 2022.  Enjoy the episode. 

Are you ready to make 2022 the best year yet? By design the episode of the year is with Liz Wiseman who recently published the book Impact Players - How to take the Lead, Play Bigger, and Multiply your impact.  Liz shares insights to the book, how to be a impact player in 2022, and which skill she is currently working on.  This is one you will want to listen and share. Let's make 2022 the best one yet 😎 Liz Wiseman is a researcher and executive advisor who teaches leadership to executives around the world. She is the author of New York Times bestseller Multipliers: How the Best Leaders Make Everyone Smarter, The Multiplier Effect: Tapping the Genius Inside Our Schools, and Wall Street Journal bestseller Rookie Smarts: Why Learning Beats Knowing in the New Game of Work. She is the CEO of the Wiseman Group, a leadership research and development firm headquartered in Silicon Valley, California. Some of her recent clients include: Apple, AT&T, Disney, Facebook, Google, Microsoft, Nike, Salesforce, Tesla, and Twitter. Liz has been listed on the Thinkers50 ranking and named one of the top 10 leadership thinkers in the world.

Nicole has over 21 years of experience as an officer, leader and fighter pilot in the United States Air Force. In this week's episode of Small Things Make a Big Difference she shares her formula for leadership success. Be prepared to be inspired and share with others. This is a hall of fame episode 😎

Dylan Gambardella is the CEO and Co-founder of Next Gen HQ. A Forbes 30 Under 30 entrepreneur, Dylan and his team provide the momentum founders, students, and young professionals need to win at work and in life. In this episode Dylan shares his formula for success as a young CEO and Entrepreneur.  This is what I am focusing on after my interview with him: 1. MVP (minimal viable product) 2. Never stop learning 3. Treat People with Kindness

With over 20 years of experience at the forefront of Artificial Intelligence and Communications Technologies, Edo Segal leads Touchcast in the pursuit of the future of communications. By fusing state-of-the-art advances in both Mixed Reality and Artificial Reality, Touchcast is facilitating the next generation of communications and collaboration experiences.  In this episode, Edo shares his passion for innovation, the importance of trust and for the first time ever instead of sharing a song - he give is own link to his favorite songs.  https://protect-de.mimecast.com/s/XMjQCoZ30mtXYy04XT1cR5n?domain=open.spotify.com