The Human Side of Leadership in Healthcare

Why does so much great training fail to produce measurable results?In this episode of The Human Side of Leadership, Dr. Pelè sits down with Greg Schinkel, CEO of Unique Training & Development, for a candid conversation between two leadership development practitioners who have spent decades wrestling with the same challenge: how do we turn learning into behavior change, and behavior change into business results?Greg shares his journey from manufacturing and leadership development into the ongoing pursuit of better ways to activate and measure learning. Dr. Pelè traces his own perspective back to an extraordinary childhood experience during the Nigerian Civil War, where he learned a lesson that would shape his philosophy decades later: survival did not depend on one person. It took a village.Together, they explore why traditional training measurement often stops short of results, the limitations of surveys and self-reported behavior, the roles managers and executives must play after training, and how AI is creating new possibilities for seeing behavior change as it happens.Their central conclusion is simple but consequential: the learner cannot carry the responsibility for training success alone.If organizations want development programs to create measurable results, participants must practice, leaders must activate, and organizations must leverage what they learn.Training may begin in the classroom. Results happen in the village.

As technology and AI reshape the way we work, how do leaders embrace innovation without losing the human touch?Joshua Evarts has spent more than three decades building businesses in technology. But some of his most important lessons about leadership came from an unexpected place: a cigar lounge he opened as a gathering space for conversation, community, and connection.In this episode of The Human Side of Leadership, Dr. Pelè talks with Joshua, author of If Jesus Smoked Cigars, about why relationships remain at the heart of meaningful leadership, even as technology becomes more powerful.Joshua shares how his battle with cancer deepened his appreciation for human connection, why technology should ultimately lead us back to better conversations, and what his cigar lounge taught him about creating spaces where people feel seen, heard, and valued.They also explore the growing role of AI, the importance of listening more than speaking, and why knowing that relationships matter isn't enough. Leaders have to turn that belief into everyday behavior.Joshua's challenge to leaders is both simple and profound: don't try to transform every relationship at once. Start with one.Because ultimately, great leadership isn't just about building a successful business. It's about building a culture strong enough to help people navigate the inevitable challenges of business and life without losing what makes us human.Connect with Joshua Evarts on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshuaevarts/

Why do some employees embrace AI while others resist it, quietly avoid it, or deliberately use it poorly?According to behavioral scientist Dr. Gleb Tsipursky, AI adoption is not primarily a technology challenge. It is a human challenge rooted in three powerful emotions: fear of job loss, threats to professional identity, and shame surrounding the use of AI-generated work.In this episode of The Human Side of Leadership, Dr. Pelè talks with Dr. Gleb about his new book, The Psychology of AI Adoption at Work: From Resistance to Results. Together, they explore why traditional change-management approaches often fall short, how leaders unintentionally trigger resistance, and why simply purchasing AI tools and telling employees to use them rarely produces meaningful results.Dr. Gleb also explains how organizations can discover where AI will genuinely help employees, design tools around real workplace frustrations, and move from scattered individual experimentation to productive team-wide adoption.If leaders want AI to deliver results, they must first address the psychology of the people being asked to use it.Dr. Gleb Tipursky on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-gleb-tsipursky/

Artificial intelligence is transforming the workplace, but are organizations redesigning work before they truly understand it?In this episode of The Human Side of Leadership, Dr. Pelè sits down with workforce transformation executive, author, and LinkedIn Top Voice Kason Morris to explore his groundbreaking concept of Execution Visibility.Together, they discuss why AI doesn't replace jobs, but the tasks within them, why human judgment may become the most valuable capability of the AI era, and why leaders must first understand how work creates value before they can successfully redesign it.Kason shares practical guidance for executives, HR leaders, and learning professionals on balancing automation with human development, preserving critical thinking, and building organizations where technology strengthens rather than weakens capability.If you're leading AI transformation, workforce strategy, leadership development, or organizational change, this conversation offers a thoughtful framework for designing the future of work without losing what makes people indispensable.Connect with Kason Morris below:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kason-morris/Kason's book on Amazon: "Lifework Revolution" 

What transforms a workplace from a collection of employees into a culture of ownership?In this episode, Dr. Pelè sits down with StoneAge CEO and bestselling author Kerry Siggins to explore the leadership behaviors that create trust, accountability, and genuine ownership. Drawing from her own remarkable journey—from overcoming addiction to leading a global, employee-owned company—Kerry shares why culture isn't built through slogans or values on the wall, but through the conversations leaders choose to have every day.Together, they discuss the "Own It" mindset, why trust is the foundation of high-performing teams, how leaders can recognize accountability (and excuses), why difficult conversations are essential to healthy cultures, and how AI can become a powerful thought partner without replacing the human side of leadership.Whether you lead a global organization, a small team, or simply want to become a better leader, this conversation offers practical wisdom for building cultures where people—and results—can thrive.Connect with Kerry Siggins on LinkedIn: [ HERE ] Visit her website: https://kerrysiggins.com Get the Book "Talk With Trust" on Amazon [ HERE ] 

What if healthcare could identify disease before symptoms appear?And what if artificial intelligence could help physicians think better, not simply move faster?In this episode of The Human Side of Leadership in Healthcare, Dr. Pelè sits down with Trevor Turner, MD, Co-Founder of Provida Health, to explore the future of predictive, personalized medicine.Drawing from his experience caring for professional athletes, Special Operations personnel, and everyday patients, Trevor explains how genomics, wearables, imaging, and AI-powered clinical intelligence are transforming healthcare from a reactive system into a proactive one.But this conversation goes far beyond technology.Trevor shares his own journey through injury and recovery, explains why movement is foundational to long-term health, and reveals why the most important moments in medicine still require human connection, trust, and compassion.Together, they explore: Why healthcare remains largely reactive  The difference between information and clinical intelligence  How AI can support physician judgment without replacing it  Why more data does not automatically create better outcomes  The role of emotional intelligence in healthcare leadership  What leaders can do today to move their organizations toward predictive care If you're interested in the future of healthcare, leadership, artificial intelligence, and the human experience of medicine, this conversation is for you.Connect with Dr. Trevor Turner on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/trevor-turner-9778733/

What if burnout isn't simply a workload problem?In this fascinating conversation, Dr. Pelè sits down with physician, chef, regenerative organic farmer, and two-time New York Times bestselling author Dr. John La Puma to explore a surprising idea: many of the health challenges we blame on stress, aging, and burnout may actually be linked to the fact that modern humans spend approximately 93% of their lives indoors.Drawing from more than 2,000 scientific studies and the research behind his new book, Indoor Epidemic, Dr. La Puma explains how natural light, fresh air, distance, movement, and time in nature directly influence sleep, mood, memory, focus, cardiovascular health, and even leadership performance.They discuss:• Why "nature is not a luxury, it's a biological requirement"• The concept of "digital obesity" and pixel overload• How morning light impacts deep sleep and brain health• What healthcare organizations can learn from hospital design research• Why burnout may actually be a symptom of under-restoration• The surprising minimum effective dose of nature for better performanceWhether you're a healthcare leader, executive, clinician, or simply someone who spends too much time in front of a screen, this conversation may change the way you think about productivity, wellness, and the environments we create for ourselves and others.

Healthcare professionals are some of the smartest people in the world. Yet burnout, frustration, and emotional exhaustion continue to drive talented clinicians away from the work they love.In this episode, Dr. Mickey Lebowitz, physician, emotional intelligence expert, and author of The EQ Prescription, explains why the real challenge in healthcare is not a lack of knowledge. It is learning how to manage ourselves when the pressure is highest.We explore Dr. Mickey's powerful concept of the Emotional Intelligence Zone, why leaders often struggle under stress, and practical techniques for staying grounded when the heat is on.If you've ever wondered why knowing better doesn't always lead to doing better, this conversation is for you.Connect with Dr. Mickey Lebowitz on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mickey-lebowitz-2550b2156/

When patients leave the hospital, the healthcare journey is far from over.In this episode of The Human Side of Leadership in Healthcare, Dr. Pelè sits down with caregiver advocate and educator Lynnel Townsend to explore one of healthcare's most overlooked challenges: the invisible work of family caregiving.Drawing from years of professional caregiving experience and deeply personal stories, Lynnel explains how family caregivers often become an unseen extension of the healthcare system, providing around-the-clock care with little training, support, or preparation. She shares her concept of Caregiver Robotic Syndrome and highlights the emotional, physical, and psychological toll that caregiving can take when families are left to navigate complex healthcare needs on their own. Together, they discuss:• Why family caregivers are often the hidden patient in the healthcare continuum • The warning signs of caregiver burnout • What happens after a patient is discharged home • Why education and preparation are critical for caregiver success • The communication gap between healthcare systems and family caregivers • How families can share responsibility more effectively • The role of personalized care plans and support systems in preventing burnout • Why supporting caregivers ultimately improves patient outcomes and reduces readmissions This conversation is a powerful reminder that healthcare does not end at discharge. Behind every patient receiving care at home is often a caregiver carrying an invisible burden that deserves recognition, support, and compassion.Lynnel Townsend is on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lynnel-townsend-73b07828b/

After 40 years as a pediatric neurosurgeon, Dr. Alan Cohen has seen some of medicine’s most extraordinary miracles and most heartbreaking moments.In this episode of The Human Side of Leadership in Healthcare, Dr. Pelè sits down with Dr. Cohen, Chief of Pediatric Neurosurgery at Johns Hopkins and author of Comfort Always: Healing in the Age of Technology, to explore a question healthcare must continue asking:As medicine advances, what must we never lose sight of about the human side of healing?Dr. Cohen shares gripping stories from a lifetime of caring for children and families facing the crisis of their lives, and reflects on the emotional realities of medicine that technology can never replace.In this conversation:• Why healing and treatment are not the same thing • What patients remember long after the technology is forgotten • How compassion shapes trust under pressure • The emotional weight physicians carry in high-stakes medicine • Why AI must never replace the patient-doctor relationship • The simple human behaviors that patients remember foreverOne of the most memorable lines from this episode:“Technology treats the disease. Humanity heals the patient.”A powerful conversation about medicine, leadership, compassion, and the forgotten art of healing.Connect with Dr. Alan Cohen on LinkedIn: [ HERE ] Get his book, Comfort Always, on Amazon: https://amzn.to/4fDhUpJ

Healthcare leadership often struggles when executives and clinicians operate in silos, each seeing the world through different pressures, priorities, and assumptions.In this episode of The Human Side of Leadership in Healthcare, Dr. Pelè sits down with Jill Bowen and Dr. Elisabeth Fontaine, co-founders of Let’s Lead LLC, to explore what it really takes to build trust, emotional intelligence, and alignment across healthcare teams.Drawing from their lived experience as a hospital CEO and physician leader, Jill and Elisabeth unpack why fear, hierarchy, silence, and “staying in your lane” often weaken collaboration, and how team coaching can create the psychological safety, vulnerability, and shared purpose needed for better outcomes.They also discuss emotional intelligence under pressure, why “soft skills” are often the missing infrastructure beneath performance, and how healthcare teams can move beyond chaos to become more human-centered, connected, and effective.In this episode:• why executive-clinician tension often starts long before conflict appears • the hidden role of fear in healthcare team dynamics • why vulnerability may be the key to stronger leadership teams • emotional intelligence as a practical leadership tool, not just theory • how team coaching helps organizations break silos and improve collaboration • what patient-centered leadership looks like in a chaotic healthcare system • real examples of trust, teamwork, and performance improvement in practiceConnect with Let's Lead LLC on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/letsleadllc/

What if healthcare systems have been optimizing the wrong thing?In this episode of The Human Side of Leadership in Healthcare, Dr. Pelè sits down with internationally recognized transplant surgeon, healthcare executive, and author Douglas Slakey to explore why great healthcare outcomes require more than clinical excellence and standardized systems.Drawing from more than 30 years in transplant surgery and healthcare leadership, Dr. Slakey explains why overly rigid processes often fail real people, and why healthcare leaders must begin designing systems that adapt to the realities of individual patients rather than forcing patients to adapt to the system.Together, they discuss:• why healthcare breaks down under pressure despite intelligent leadership • the hidden limitations of standardization and process rigidity • how social, economic, spiritual, and environmental realities shape patient outcomes • why healthcare systems struggle with fragmentation and incentives misalignment • the role of leadership flexibility in high-reliability organizations • how AI and technology could enable truly personalized healthcare experiences • the future of patient-centered healthcare through Dr. Slakey’s new venture, LifePath • why the ultimate measure of success is not operational efficiency, but whether people can truly live better livesThe episode closes with a powerful story from a transplant patient whose life was transformed 25 years after surgery, reminding us that the human side of healthcare leadership is ultimately about helping people live fully beyond the walls of the hospital.Connect with Dr. Douglas Slakey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/douglas-slakey-md/

We talk with Renee Thompson about why bullying and incivility in healthcare are not just culture issues, but patient safety risks. She shares how leaders unintentionally reinforce disruptive behavior, what actually happens in the moment when conflict is avoided, and how organizations can operationalize respect at scale.• why incivility has always impacted patient outcomes, even when ignored • the hidden patterns leaders miss, including silence as a strategy • short-term comfort vs. long-term cultural damage • why high performers are often protected despite toxic behavior • a simple in-the-moment technique to stop disruptive behavior immediately • the role of awareness, scripting, and confidence in leadership action • the three pillars of the Healthy Workforce Culture Framework™ • scaling culture change through systems, not just intention • self-awareness as the starting point for any culture transformationMake sure you follow Renee Thompson on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rtconnections/

We talk with Teri Renfrow about why strategy often breaks down at the point of execution in healthcare, and what it really takes to move from pilot to full-scale adoption.Teri shares how frontline experience, not just technology, determines success, and why storytelling paired with measurement is the key to building trust, driving behavior change, and sustaining results across complex systems.  why well-designed initiatives fail once they reach the frontlinethe critical role of “why” in preventing backslide and resistancewhy negative feedback is not resistance, but datahow storytelling translates data into meaningful actionbalancing metrics with real-world clinician experiencethe leadership habit of “going to Gemba” to understand realityscaling adoption while preserving human connectionone practical way leaders can improve adoption this weekConnect with Teri Renfrow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/terirenfrow/

In this episode of The Human Side of Leadership in Healthcare, Dr. Pelè speaks with October Ambrose, Vice President of People Partnerships and Engagement at Central Health, about what culture actually looks like inside a mission-driven healthcare organization.They explore why culture is not something leaders define once, but something teams build and experience every day through behavior, especially under pressure.October shares how trust, transparency, and empathy shape engagement more than mission alone, and why even the strongest purpose-driven organizations can struggle when leaders lose sight of culture in real moments.The conversation also dives into the gap between what leaders know and what they actually do, how teams support each other when that gap shows up, and why true empathy is one of the most important leadership behaviors in healthcare today.This episode offers a practical and honest look at how culture drives patient experience, team engagement, and organizational performance, not through statements, but through everyday actions.Connect with October Ambrose on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/october

In this episode, Dr. Pelè speaks with Vanessa McNeal about what really drives burnout and performance under pressure.They explore how leaders unknowingly operate in survival states like fight-or-flight and shutdown, and why this isn’t a motivation problem, but a nervous system and safety issue. Vanessa shares practical tools leaders can use in real moments, from simple awareness practices to quick physiological resets, along with mindset shifts that transform how leaders show up for their teams.The conversation also highlights how emotional regulation shapes culture, spreads across teams, and directly impacts trust, decision-making, and patient outcomes in high-stakes environments.If leadership is experienced in moments, this episode reveals what’s happening beneath the surface in those moments and how to change it.Connect with Vanessa on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vanessa-mcneal/

In this episode, we talk with Dr. Russell Robinson about why the transition into college mirrors what new hires experience in high-pressure environments like healthcare.We explore how emotional intelligence shapes performance under stress, and how AI coaching can help people build self-awareness, manage pressure, and show up better in real moments.first-year transition as a proving ground for emotional intelligencea simple framework: results, belonging, and personal wellnesswhy leader emotional intelligence drives engagement and culturein an AI world, human connection becomes the differentiatorcoaching, trust, and psychological safety as the future of leadershipAI as a neutral partner to close the self-awareness gapreal examples of in-the-moment support through prioritization and reflectionhow hiring and onboarding may shift toward emotional intelligenceleading with curiosity, listening, and meeting people where they areConnect with Dr. Russell Robinson on LinkedIn [ HERE ]

In this episode, we unpack how trust, purpose, and people-first leadership power real culture change, and how AI can scale feedback, belonging, and performance without losing the human edge.Gena Pirtle, founder of The People Equation and former global HR leader at Cisco, shares practical insights on redesigning HR, strengthening retention, and building cross-sector talent ecosystems for the future of work.In this conversation, we explore:• redefining strategic HR as a true business engine• culture as lived behavior, not policy• trust as the foundation for transformation• AI’s role in continuous performance and feedback• why human skills rise in value alongside automation• scaling personalization with tools like Belonging Intelligence• retention through safe experimentation and ERG-led pilots• veteran talent pipelines and workforce ecosystems• what leaders get wrong about culture and how to fix it• current initiatives with Great Place to Work and 4BlockConnect with Gena Pirtle on LinkedIn or visit PeopleEquationConsulting.com to learn more.

Most leadership breakdowns are not failures of intelligence or strategy. They are emotional failures.In this episode of the Leadership AI Podcast, Maggie Sass, Ph.D., Executive Vice President of Product, Research, and Professional Services at TalentSmart EQ, explores how emotional intelligence functions as the operating system beneath strategy, coaching, and decision-making.Together, we unpack what it really means to treat leadership as daily emotional behavior, especially in high-pressure environments like healthcare.In this conversation, we discuss:why leadership is fundamentally emotional, not just technicalhow limbic “hijacks” happen under pressure and how to recoverthe four core EQ skills and how they build on each otherdelivering feedback that creates learning, not defensivenessbuilding habits through tiny experiments and simple cuesscaling EQ through assessments, onboarding, and certificationsnavigating generational differences around emotions at worka simple five-minute morning and evening practice to strengthen EQIf you care about leadership performance that holds under pressure, this episode is for you.Be sure to follow Maggie Sass, Ph.D. on LinkedIn for practical insights on emotional intelligence and organizational performance.

Do you want to discover the secret recipe to align company and employee needs and create a harmonious and profitable work environment? Pull up a chair because today's guest, Paul ter Wal, author and president of the Virtual Speakers Association International, is here to share his transformational journey and insights on just that. Whether you're a CEO of a Fortune 500 company or a small start-up, Paul's principles are key to cultivating a culture of employee happiness and company profitability. To connect with Paul ter Wal, visit:Website: https://paulterwal.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulterwal/

Are you ready to revolutionize your leadership style? Join us as we host Tiffany Houser, a seasoned leadership and team culture expert. Tiffany will unpack the concept of human-centric leadership that champions people and relationships. Discover how empowering our sense of self-worth and nurturing honesty, authenticity, and vulnerability can transform your leadership style and team performance. To connect and learn more with Tiffany Houser online, please visit:Website: https://evolveeq.com/Course: https://www.selfworthadvantage.com/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tiffanyhouser/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tiffanyhouser/

Ever felt the weight of leadership loneliness? Fret not, as we bring you an enlightening conversation with Jonathan Bennett, an executive coach and trusted advisor who unpacks how executive coaching is a potent remedy for this isolation. Jonathan shares his journey through the worlds of business and social purpose, offering insights into how organizations can align their values with their employees for a happier, more productive workplace.You can connect with Jonathan Bennett online here:Website: https://clearlythen.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bennettjonathan/

What if the key to a highly profitable business lies in the engagement and happiness of its employees?This question is at the heart of our enlightening conversation with our esteemed guest, international author, speaker, and award-winning coach, Kon Apostolopoulos. Throughout our discussion, we dive headfirst into the seas of engagement, using Coach Kon's decade-long experience with a construction company as the compass to navigate these often turbulent waters. The episode is ripe with practical examples and strategies shared by Coach Kon to tackle the evergreen challenge of disengagement. He illuminates the four essential drivers for engagement and how leaders can foster them in the workplace, from transparent communication to aligning people and business plans. Join us for this insightful exploration, and you'll walk away equipped with tools to create an environment where employees are not just engaged but thriving.To learn more about Coach Kon and his work, visit:Website: https://www.freshbizsolutions.com/Assessment Tool: https://www.freshbizsolutions.com/assessment-toolLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/coachkon/

Ever wonder why communication breakdowns seem to be a perpetual cycle in organizations? Join me as I get to the heart of this issue with the dynamic Marsha Acker, CEO and principal at Team Catapult. With her unique expertise, Marsha highlights how we can initiate the solution from within ourselves just by 'reading the room' and identifying when we're stuck in an endless loop of redundant conversations. She underscores the pivotal role of our choice of words in framing a conversation – how a simple shift in vocabulary can flip problems into opportunities. Listen in as Marsha walks us through her remarkable journey to the leader she is today.To connect with Marsha Acker online, visit:Website: https://teamcatapult.com/Booksite: https://buildyourmodel.com/Boon on Amazon: https://amzn.to/45zphGcLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marsha-acker-3486a72/

What if you could tap into the ancient philosophy of eudaimonic happiness to create a thriving, engaged and productive work culture? That's exactly what we're discussing with Dr. Alise Cortez interviewing Dr. Pelè, in this eye-opening episode. Drawing on the lessons of resilience, joy, and determination from his war-torn African upbringing, Dr. Pelè shares his belief that happiness is not a result of success but the precursor to it.As we navigate through the episode, we uncover Dr. Pelè's unique "H.A.P.P.Y." strategy - a remarkable model that leverages software to foster happiness, appreciation, pride, purpose, and a 'yes' mentality within teams. Don't miss this enlightening conversation - it might just hold the keys to transforming your work culture!Connect with Dr. Pelè online here:website: https://drpele.comSoftware: https://profitablehappiness.comBook: https://amzn.to/3HGSsy3Music: https://drpele.com/musicLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/drpele

Imagine a workplace where everyone gets to tell their story, and where everyone feels a sense of belonging. Sounds utopian, right? Brace yourself for an enlightening conversation with Maria Morukian, acclaimed author of the book, "Diversity, Equity and Inclusion for Trainers."We delve into her journey of becoming a voice for the voiceless and her commitment to ensuring every story gets told, and every voice heard, forging an environment that resonates with DEI principles. In her signature manner, Maria declares that "inclusion is NOT enough," and imparts her wisdom on how trainers and talent development professionals can help embed DEI into an organization's core. Be prepared to have your perspectives challenged and broadened by this riveting discussion.You can reach Maria Morukian online here:Website: https://msmglobalconsulting.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-morukian/Book: https://amzn.to/3ZJBw1p

Have you ever wondered about the actual cost of burnout - on personal and organizational levels? Did you know that your beliefs about stress can significantly alter your experience of it?Our guest today, Dr. Sharon Grossman, an expert on Burnout, takes us through this invisible crisis, its root causes, and its impacts on productivity, healthcare costs, and workplace culture. This episode offers fresh perspectives on stress, highlighting its often-overlooked benefit and how it can be leveraged positively. You can connect with Dr. Sharon Grossman online here:Website: https://drsharongrossman.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharongrossman/New Book: "The Stress Advantage" — https://amzn.to/3LE9tur

What does it mean to be a leader? Rose Fass, the trailblazing founder and chairman of fassforward, invites us to unravel this complex question in our latest deep-dive episode. Rose, a veteran leader and author, leverages her new book, "The Leadership Conversation" to help us demystify some common misconceptions about leadership, emphasizing the importance of listening and the critical idea that "leadership happens in conversations!"This episode is a veritable gold mine for anyone yearning to bridge the leadership gap and lead more effectively. To connect with Rose Fass online, please visit:Website: https://www.fassforward.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rosefass/

Imagine a world where your EMPLOYEE HAPPINESS directly links to PRODUCTIVITY at work. Sounds like a dream, doesn't it? Well, our guest, the thought-provoking Dr. Pelè, a best-selling author, musician, and software architect, makes a compelling case for this dream to be a reality. In an episode host reversal, Dr. Rick Garlick had the opportunity to sit down with Dr. Pelè, our regular host, to discuss Dr. Pelè's journey from a war-torn country to becoming an influential thought leader. Dr. Pelè's unique insights about how focusing on employee happiness leads to increased business performance is something you'll definitely want to hear!To learn more about Dr. Pelè online, visit:Speaking: https://drpele.comBook: https://amzn.to/3HGSsy3Software: https://profitablehappiness.comLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/drpeleYouTube: https://youtube.com/drpeleraymond

Ever been trapped in a pattern that's holding you back? Our guest today, Tony Martignetti, a distinguished Leadership Coach and Chief Inspiration Officer, has turned this common dilemma into an opportunity for growth and transformation in today's organizations. Tony deftly explains how even well-established patterns can be detrimental if they're not serving your purpose and underlines the importance of breaking free from these patterns to foster alignment with your organization and the people who surround you.To connect with Tony Martignetti online, visit:Website: https://www.inspiredpurposecoach.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonymartignett1/

What if stress, that ogre of modern life, could be our friend? We pose this provocative question to our special guest, Chris Young, the Director of Workforce Development at the Texas Department of Transportation. With his impressive background in military service, diplomacy, consultancy, and workforce development, Chris offers a fresh perspective on stress and change. He introduces us to "Eustress" and "Distress," the two faces of stress, which in some ways are loose, parallel opposites to the two forms of happiness: "hedonistic" and "eudaimonic." If you've been wondering how to navigate rapid change in the workplace, Chris's insights are what you need. Join us for an invigorating chat about compassion, empathy, and business self-care.To learn more and connect with Chris Young, visit:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chrisyoungphd/

Are you ready to tap into the pulse of healthcare leadership? Join us as we navigate the uncharted waters of this subject with our distinguished guest, Lara Burnside. Lara, a seasoned executive leadership coach, international speaker, and Chief Experience Officer at C.S.E. Leadership, brings her rich experience and wisdom gathered over 25 years in the healthcare sector. From discussing the current struggles in the healthcare industry to sharing her inspirations, Lara encourages leaders to reignite their passion and compassion, thereby influencing their teams positively.To connect with Lara Burnside online, visit:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lara-burnside-mha-cec-ba53b417/

Imagine you're stuck in your career, unsure of how to ascend further or maybe you're craving for a shift in your role within the organization. What if you could turn things around? Enter Amechi Udo - career change coach extraordinaire! Amechi's unique insights have empowered mid-level and senior professionals to reshape their roles and organizations. Join us for an enlightening conversation where Amechi unfurls the importance of leadership and its profound impact on workplace culture.To connect with Amechi online, visit:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/careercoachforexecutives/Website: https://www.yourcareermatters.co.uk/

How often do we feel obligated to fit into a certain mold to progress in our careers? Is there a way to break free from this pattern and become the leader we desire to be? Find out as we welcome Kneisha Sanders to our show. Kneisha, an executive coach, diversity and inclusion expert, and author, shared her insights on how she empowers leaders to make choices that align with their true selves rather than conforming to established norms.Kneisha doesn't stop there. She brings a unique approach to leadership by integrating faith into business, believing it's an instrumental tool for leaders.  To connect with Kneisha Sanders online, visit:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kneisha-sanders/Website: https://www.kneishasanders.com/Article 1: "Is the Whirlwind Spiraling into Burnout? 5 Ways to Claim Back your Time and Peace of Mind"Article 2:  "Stop the Whirlwind and Deliberately Lead Energetic Teams: 9 Things to Consider when Burnout Leaders are Managing Burnout Employees"

Ever wondered about the links between engaged employees, positive employee experiences, and organizational performance?Well, tune in as we unravel this intriguing concept with our special guest, Christi Gilhoi, an Employee Experience Executive who designs data-responsive ‘people-first’ programs to ensure all employees feel valued, connected, empowered, and supported.Christi enlightens us by emphasizing the crucial difference between employee engagement and experience, highlighting the significance of a holistic approach that factors in joy, meaningful experiences, and purpose.To connect with Christi online, visit:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/christi-gilhoi/

Are you ready to challenge your traditional understanding of employee engagement and workplace productivity? Strap in for a transformational conversation with renowned expert, Jason Lauritsen, who compels us to rethink our current systems and beliefs. In a riveting analysis, we explore how legacy management and HR practices have led to low global engagement over the past 30 years. Drawing an insightful parallel between these outdated perceptions and the Matrix, we dissect how this misplaced view impacts overall performance and employees' experience, underscoring the need for a radical shift in perspective.To connect with Jason Lauritsen, please visit:Website: https://jasonlauritsen.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jasonlauritsen/

What if you discovered a simple yet powerful metaphor that perfectly illustrated a common pattern of undervaluing and underpricing, particularly prevalent among women in business? Meet Patty Block, our insightful guest for this episode, as she brings to life the 'Broken Cookie Effect,' a striking metaphor that resonates deeply with women business leaders who often settle for less. To connect with Patty Block online, visit:Website: https://theblockgroup.net/Assessment: https://she-exits.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pattyblock/

What if the secret to high performance in your organization wasn't about the latest technology but the way your team communicates and connects? We explore That question with our guest, organizational behavior management expert Dr. Kimberly Davis. With her intriguing journey from mortgage broker to behavior management specialist, Dr. Davis shares how she uses her expertise to modify and improve human behavior, touching upon the challenges that arise without good communication in cultures. Join us and discover the link between emotions and performance and how understanding this connection can lead to work cultures that foster happiness and personal growth.To connect with Dr. Kimberly Davis, visit:Website: https://www.motivatingexcellence.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-kimberly-davis-a82b63b1/

Most of us go about our lives conscious and aware of our physical health. We watch what we eat, we try to exercise, and we make sure to carefully nurse any wounds we get along the way, even if it's a small scratch on an elbow.But how many of us think about our mental health? Do we even realize it is there, every day, just like our physical health, in need of care and attention?So many organizational challenges could be avoided if we realized that focusing on  employee "wellness" is not only important when it seems something is going "wrong." In fact, our wellness and mental health, like our physical health, always need attention.In this episode, we meet Josh Rivedal, a Mission Driven Speaker/Educator, Storyteller, Standup Comic, Author, and Cook—all centered around mental health and suicide prevention. Josh is also the Founder/CEO of The i’Mpossible Project.To connect with Josh online, visit:Website: http://www.joshuarivedal.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/josh-rivedal-48a636155/

How can leaders build emotional relationships with employees to produce high organizational performance? This question often struggles from the misperception by many that "emotions" don't (or shouldn't) play a role in business performance. Thankfully, much research and evidence show it can be both "safe" and "fun" for leaders to make powerful emotional connections with employees while building high-performance cultures.In this episode, we meet Harper Collins bestselling author Paul Falcone, the former CHRO of Nickelodeon and head of international human resources for Paramount Pictures.You can connect with Paul online HERE:Website: https://www.paulfalconehr.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulfalcone1/

Few personal and professional success stories have caught my attention as powerfully as the story of Matt Higgins and his unique philosophy. Whether as a Founder, Investor, Educator, or CEO of multi-billion-dollar investment firm R.S.E. Ventures, no matter the role, Matt has always believed in trusting his instincts and never outsourcing his judgment.In his new book, "Burn The Boats," executive fellow at Harvard Business School, Guest Shark on Shark Tank, and famed angel investor Matt Higgins reveals the counterintuitive formula for a life of perpetual growth that has been practiced for thousands of years by military leaders and serial entrepreneurs alike—forget your Plan B and "burn the boats!"In this episode, Matt draws stories from scientific research, business experiences, and  his own rags-to-riches life to show you how to "toss 'plan B' overboard and unleash your full potential!"Here's how to learn more and connect with Matt online:"Burn The Boats," on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3JcA8NIWebsite: https://rseventures.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt-higgins-rse/Shark Tank: https://abc.com/shows/shark-tank/cast/matt-higgins 

How do leaders and their companies achieve high performance and profitable cultures by encouraging employee happiness? This is the core question, and in this episode of Tom Ruwitch's StoryPower Marketing show, Dr. Pelè has the answers. Dr. Pelè is an educator, musician, bestselling author, and the founder of Profitable Happiness®. He seeks to change the world through books, software, training, and music that help organizations build high employee engagement, experience, and performance cultures.DISCUSSED IN THIS EPISODEWhat every business's greatest asset is and how to leverage it for superior performanceHow to think about what “happiness” really means to take control of achieving itWhy so many businesses kill their golden goose and how to avoid making the same mistakeThe three-step process that creates long-lasting habitsUnique software that helps bring these concepts to lifeHOW TO CONNECT WITH DR. PELÈBook: https://amzn.to/3HGSsy3 Website: https://drpele.comSoftware: https://profitablehappiness.comLinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/drpele

In this episode, we meet Dr. Paul, the leading authority on Employee Engagement and Respect in the workplace. Over the past decade, his first book: "Carrots and Sticks Don’t Work," has sold worldwide and received many accolades, including being named one of the 100 Best Human Resource Books of All Time by Book Authority.In his newest book, "Let’s Talk About It: Turning Confrontation into Collaboration" (McGraw-Hill, 2021), readers learn specific skills, techniques, and strategies to deal with interpersonal conflict healthily and productively. How to contact Dr. Paul online:Website: https://paulmarciano.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulmarciano/

After 20+ years as an award-winning and respected HR leader, Debra Corey now provides consulting, keynotes, and leadership workshops/training to inspire and help organizations get their HR strategies, initiatives, and culture right. She's on a mission to make a difference by:— rebelliously challenging traditional HR ways (because the world has changed).— to design and deliver HR programs to support their people (because they deserve it).— to help businesses succeed (because they need to).Debra Corey is a champion and leader of the "HR rebelution," driving change to make a better workplace—and world—where employees can be themselves, feel valued and appreciated, and ultimately do their best work.

Is your company alive and on fire with “gusto,” pulsating with energy and innovation, wowing your customers, and producing great financial results? Kind of? No? Not at all? Well, let’s get to it! In this episode, we meet Author, Speaker, Organizational Logotherapist, and Radio Show Host Dr. Alise Cortez, who helps companies activate meaning and purpose in their culture and leadership to vitalize the entire enterprise. To connect with Dr. Cortez online, visit:Website: https://www.alisecortez.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alisecortez/

Everyone talks about "culture," but very few get granular enough to leverage it as a tool for building high-performance organizations. Finally! Someone who can speak about culture, engagement, and the future of work—and give you concrete data and action steps!And instead of blaming the Millennials for everything, Jamie provides solutions that will work for every generation.In this episode, we meet Jamie Notter, Co-Founder and Culture Strategist at PROPEL, who is on a mission to help organizations get "culture done right!"You can connect with Jamie online at:Business Website: https://propelnow.co/Speaking Website: https://jamienotter.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jamienotter/

"How can I get my employees to engage?" That's every executive's question.Now there's an answer!In this episode, we meet New York Times bestselling ghostwriter, co-author, and book doctor, Tim Vandehey, with over 60 nonfiction books, including SWIPE.In SWIPE, Dr. Tracy Maylett and Tim Vandehey reveal the “X factor” that makes aspiring artists and athletes quit halfway to their goals, and turns good employees cynical and indifferent. Discover how false expectations, distraction, and technology can trap you in a cycle of failure and regret. More important, learn how to escape the “hamster wheel,” re-engage, and reach those elusive goals. Swipe shows the way.To learn more about S.W.I.P.E. and Time Vandehey, visit:Book website: https://swipethebook.com/Book on Amazon: https://amzn.to/3HbaGqQTim's Website: https://www.timvandehey.com/ Tim's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tvandehey/

In the latest episode of The Profitable Happiness Podcast, we had a mind-blowing conversation with an NLP expert who shared some amazing insights into human nature and how it applies to business. In this episode, we meet Julian Sado, who is "a spiritual being disguised as a business/Executive consultant & coach, Author, speaker, and NLP Practitioner!"Here are some key takeaways from the episode:- Focusing on neuroscience as a niche is in demand in corporate America.- Emotional connection and purposeful work are important for driving success and improving organizational culture.- Belonging and confidence are linked, and it is important to become intuitive and instinctive in the moment.What are YOUR thoughts about the intersection between our minds and organizational/cultural success?You can connect with Julian Sado online here:Website: https://www.pivot2change.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliansado/

What is the secret to building a thriving workplace culture?How can organizations create a culture of trust, respect, and purpose that leads to increased productivity, employee satisfaction, and overall success?In this episode, we meet Emmy Award Winner, Top Leadership Keynote Speaker, and #1 Bestselling Author of "I Love It Here," Clint Pulver, who works with organizations that want to retain, engage and inspire their employees. To connect with Clint Pulver online, visit: Website: https://clintpulver.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clintpulver/

Let's face it: organizational culture is a puzzle. Your missing piece costs you top talent, fresh ideas, and MONEY! If culture defines your brand, your people, and your success as an organization, what are the simple solutions you can implement to create big cultural results?In today's episode, we get the answer from Julie Ann Sullivan, a world-renowned employee experience thought leader, coach, and celebrated author of 'Catalysts of Culture'.To connect with Julie Ann Sullivan online, visit:Website: https://julieannsullivan.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julieannsullivan/Get a copy of her book: https://amzn.to/3K8gJNG