Lead at the Top of Your Game Karan Ferrell-Rhodes and Shockingly Different Leadership

IN THIS EPISODE...
Meet Joe Dunlap, a seasoned Learning and Performance Improvement strategist renowned for his forward-thinking approach and expertise in fostering continuous learning cultures. With a robust career spanning over 18 years, Joe has established himself as a trailblazer in competency modeling, innovation, and engagement strategies.
In this episode, we delve into the intricacies of leadership and professional development, stressing the significance of grasping human dynamics, upskilling, and reskilling endeavors. With a keen eye on tailoring training programs to individualized needs, Joe highlights ongoing challenges in optimizing talent development and organizational effectiveness, notably the tendency to overlook the human element amidst technological advancements. He also offers insights into the implementation of intrapreneurship as a catalyst for fostering innovation and improvement within organizations.
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Full show notes, links to resources mentioned, and other compelling episodes can be found at http://LeadYourGamePodcast.com. (Click the magnifying icon at the top right and type “Joe”)
Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!
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JUST FOR YOU: Increase your leadership acumen by identifying your personal Leadership Trigger. Take my free my free quiz and instantly receive your 5-page report.
Need to up-level your workforce or execute strategic People initiatives? https://shockinglydifferent.com/contact or tweet @KaranRhodes.
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ABOUT JOE DUNLAP:Joe Dunlap serves as the Global Director of Training and Development for the CJK Group. This privately held conglomerate comprises international companies specializing in printing, publishing services, and technology/information solutions. 
As a thought leader, Joe excels in bridging the gap between traditional Learning and Development practices and cutting-edge methodologies. His proficiency is designing and implementing transformative learning initiatives that drive tangible performance improvements. Moreover, Joe's adeptness in leveraging tech, analytics, and social learning mechanisms empowers organizations to adapt and thrive in rapidly evolving landscapes. Beyond his role as a strategist, Joe is a dynamic communicator, often sought after as a keynote speaker, panelist, and podcast guest. He shares his insights on topics ranging from competency modeling to the future of workplace learning, inspiring audiences to embrace innovation and experimentation.
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WHAT TO LISTEN FOR:1.    What is the significance of continuous learning and development throughout one's career?
2.    What benefits does the concept of intrapreneurship bring to organizations?
3.    When discussing the integration of AI into traditional industries, what are the potential challenges and opportunities?
4.    Why is organizational commitment to employee development essential, and how does it impact overall effectiveness?
5.    How can initiatives like "Ranger status" be evaluated regarding their effectiveness in fostering genuine learning and development?
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FEATURED TIMESTAMPS:[05:28] Joe's Career Journey
[10:52] The Myth of the Quick Fix: Embracing Continuous Learning Over One-n-Done Training
[13:52] The Reality

IN THIS EPISODE...
From the dangers inherent in leadership roles to the critical role of shared understanding and expectations, uncover key insights that shape leadership effectiveness and organizational success. Learn the importance of understanding when to lean into change and how to navigate the delicate balance between leading and following.
Today’s guest, Denise Cooper, is the CEO and Founder of Remarkable Leadership Lessons. Denise brings 25 years of experience in guiding C-suite executives and transitioning individuals through the complexities of leadership during times of change or company transformation to our conversation. Recognizing that many corporate transformations falter not due to flawed business strategies but rather due to ineffective people management, Denise specializes in developing practical, specific, and tactical leadership skills and behaviors to unlock success. By partnering with clients to enhance their management approaches and drive quantifiable performance improvements, she aims to bridge the gap between business strategy and effective leadership execution.
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Full show notes, links to resources mentioned, and other compelling episodes can be found at http://LeadYourGamePodcast.com. (Click the magnifying icon at the top right and type “Denise”)
Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!
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JUST FOR YOU: Increase your leadership acumen by identifying your personal Leadership Trigger. Take my free my free quiz and instantly receive your 5-page report.
Need to up-level your workforce or execute strategic People initiatives? https://shockinglydifferent.com/contact or tweet @KaranRhodes.
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ABOUT DENISE COOPER:Denise Cooper is a pioneering figure in neuroplasticity and executive coaching, leading CEOs and C-Suite teams through the dynamic currents of change with grace and innovation. With over 25 years of experience in corporate, union, and government settings, she understands the transformative potential of Conversational Intelligence firsthand.
Denise's approach is rooted in the belief that change is not a storm to weather but a wave to ride. Through tailored coaching and training programs, she helps organizations tap into the inherent agility of the human mind, rewiring their approach to challenges and fostering a culture of continuous improvement. Rejecting rigid hierarchies, she champions open dialogue and collaboration as catalysts for success.
As a certified C-IQ Coach, Denise empowers leaders to harness the magic of dialogue for unprecedented collaboration and results. Also, her book, "Remarkable Leadership Lessons: Change Results One Conversation at a Time," serves as a roadmap for individuals and teams seeking to unlock their potential and make a lasting mark on the world.
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WHAT TO LISTEN FOR:1.    What is the main focus of leadership coaching?
2.    When does leadership become dangerous?
3.    Why do leaders often struggle with change?
4.    What role does communication play in leadership?
5.    Where do leaders commonly face challenges post-pandemic?
6.    How does effective communication contribute to organizational success?
7.    Why is it important for leaders to...

IN THIS EPISODE...
Discover the significance of intentional, empathetic leadership in embracing neurodiversity, from challenging hiring practices to fostering collective decision-making. Champion a journey towards greater inclusion, collaboration, and success in the modern workforce through practical strategies and a commitment to continuous learning.
Meet Ed Thompson, a visionary entrepreneur and advocate for neurodiversity in the workplace. As the CEO and founder of Uptimize, he has pioneered a groundbreaking corporate training platform designed to revolutionize how organizations approach talent acquisition and retention. Uptimize stands out for its innovative strategies in attracting, hiring, and nurturing individuals who think differently.
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Full show notes, links to resources mentioned, and other compelling episodes can be found at http://LeadYourGamePodcast.com. (Click the magnifying icon at the top right and type “Ed”)
Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!
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JUST FOR YOU: Increase your leadership acumen by identifying your personal Leadership Trigger. Take my free my free quiz and instantly receive your 5-page report.
Need to up-level your workforce or execute strategic People initiatives? https://shockinglydifferent.com/contact or tweet @KaranRhodes.
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ABOUT ED THOMPSON:Ed Thompson serves as the CEO and founder of Uptimize, an innovative platform for corporate training tailored to assist organizations in recruiting, engaging, and retaining individuals with diverse thinking styles. Under Ed's leadership, Uptimize has made significant strides in fostering neurodiversity within prominent global enterprises such as Salesforce, JPMorgan Chase, Deloitte, and IBM. Through robust programs tailored to each organization's needs, Uptimize has demonstrated its ability to create inclusive work environments that harness the unique strengths of diverse minds.
Furthermore, Ed has emerged as a prominent advocate of neurodiversity within professional environments, and he has recently authored a book titled "A Hidden Force – Unleashing the Power of Neurodiversity in the Workplace."
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WHAT TO LISTEN FOR:1.    What are some critical components of neurodiversity in the workplace?
2.    When discussing neurodiversity, what are the strategies for surfacing individual preferences?
3.    What is the importance of intentionality in hiring practices?
4.    Why neurodiversity should be considered in interactions with customers and partners?
5.    How do we approach collective decision-making in the workplace?
6.    What are the tools or methods for promoting neuro-inclusion within organizations?
7.    Why are humility and openness valuable in leadership and decision-making processes?
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FEATURED TIMESTAMPS:[05:13] Understanding Neurodiversity and the Case for Inclusion
[12:29] Catalyzing Change in Organizational Thinking Towards Neurodiversity
[15:26] Extending Neuro Inclusion to Customers and Partners
[17:59] Insights from 'A Hidden Force' and Practical Steps for Neuro Inclusion
[20:48] Subtle Strategies for Understanding Team Preferences
[23:58] Embracing Neurodiversity for Innovation and...

IN THIS EPISODE...
In the dynamic realm of human resources, today's guest, Anthony Howard, stands out as a trailblazer who advocates for inclusivity and representation with unwavering dedication. With a journey from the south side of Chicago to entrepreneurship, Anthony's path is marked by a relentless pursuit of purpose and a commitment to empowering others.
In this episode, we explore Anthony's profound insights into the HR landscape, from his transformative approach to education as the founder of HR Certified to his bold stance on diversity within the industry. Through candid conversations, Anthony sheds light on the challenges and triumphs he's encountered, offering invaluable lessons on courageous leadership and the importance of driving meaningful change.
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Full show notes, links to resources mentioned, and other compelling episodes can be found at http://LeadYourGamePodcast.com. (Click the magnifying icon at the top right and type “Anthony”)
Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!
------------
JUST FOR YOU: Increase your leadership acumen by identifying your personal Leadership Trigger. Take my free my free quiz and instantly receive your 5-page report.
Need to up-level your workforce or execute strategic People initiatives? https://shockinglydifferent.com/contact or tweet @KaranRhodes.
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ABOUT ANTHONY HOWARD:Anthony P. Howard is a seasoned HR leader and certification coach dedicated to empowering HR professionals across various career stages to attain their aspirations through certification. With an extensive background spanning over two decades in diverse and international HR positions, Anthony possesses the knowledge and qualifications to guide individuals through their learning and advancement journey.
As the founder and CEO of HR Certified, LLC, Anthony is committed to enhancing the confidence, marketability, and significance of underrepresented HR professionals within the industry. Through strategic utilization of his expertise as an HR business partner, coupled with his experience in global talent management and dedication to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives, he crafts and delivers impactful and inclusive programs and services.
Anthony's credentials include the SPHR, SHRM-SCP, and LDSS designations, further bolstering his credibility as a leading figure in the HR domain. He actively contributes to publications, webinars, and panel discussions as an esteemed thought leader and influencer, cementing his reputation as a trusted resource within the HR community.
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WHAT TO LISTEN FOR:1.    Why the diversity in the HR profession is essential?
2.    What are the challenges when discussing HR's role in organizational culture?
3.    How is courageous agility defined and promoted in the context of HR leadership and representation?
4.    Where are opportunities for improvement seen in the HR profession, particularly regarding diversity and inclusion?
5.    How do strategic partnerships contribute to success, and why are they essential for entrepreneurship?
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FEATURED TIMESTAMPS:[03:42] Anthony's Story
[06:54] Driving Diversity in HR
[08:52] Empowering HR Professionals with The HR...

IN THIS EPISODE...
Join us for this fascinating conversation about empowering people with disabilities and accessibility technology's pivotal role in shaping inclusive digital experiences.
Meet Alwar Pillai, the CEO of Fable, a pioneering accessibility platform dedicated to helping enterprises create inclusive digital products. With a genuine commitment to inclusive product development, Alwar leads Fable in its mission to empower individuals with disabilities and foster a culture of accessibility. In this episode, we explore the evolving landscape of digital inclusion, from redefining accessibility as a business asset to uncovering Fable's visionary approach.
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Full show notes, links to resources mentioned, and other compelling episodes can be found at http://LeadYourGamePodcast.com. (Click the magnifying icon at the top right and type “Alwar”)
Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!
------------
JUST FOR YOU: Increase your leadership acumen by identifying your personal Leadership Trigger. Take my free my free quiz and instantly receive your 5-page report.
Need to up-level your workforce or execute strategic People initiatives? https://shockinglydifferent.com/contact or tweet @KaranRhodes.
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ABOUT ALWAR PILLAI:With a background in UX Design and a Masters of Inclusive Design from OCAD University, Alwar's expertise lies in crafting digital solutions that cater to diverse user needs. Before founding Fable, she honed her skills at the Ontario Ministry of Education and as the Manager of Accessibility at Rogers Communications.
Alwar's passion for inclusive product development led her to establish Fable Tech Labs, an online platform facilitating collaboration between researchers, designers, developers, and individuals with disabilities. Through Fable, she strives to streamline the process of creating accessible digital products, empowering teams to effectively engage with diverse user perspectives.
Recognized as one of the 50 innovators making a positive impact by the Globe and Mail, Alwar's dedication to accessibility has garnered widespread acclaim. Fable Technology's inclusion in the DMZ's Incubator program in 2020 further solidifies its position as a driving force in the accessibility technology landscape.
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WHAT TO LISTEN FOR:1.    How can companies transition accessibility from compliance to a business asset?
2.    What are the critical elements of an empathy-driven approach to accessibility in product development?
3.    How can companies integrate accessibility into product development across stages?
4.    What role do tools and technology play in ensuring digital product accessibility?
5.    What accessibility technology trends are companies missing or adopting?
6.    How does Fable plan to expand its impact, especially within the disabled community?
7.    Will Fable extend services to small and medium-sized businesses or focus on enterprises?
8.    How can one balance work-life demands as a startup leader and stay focused?
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FEATURED TIMESTAMPS:[04:41] Alwar' Story
[06:59] Fable: Bridging the Digital Accessibility Divide
[11:52] Maturing...

IN THIS EPISODE...
Meet Manisha Dhawan, founder and CEO of MPath Coaching, who is recognized for her expertise in leadership development and change management. With over two decades of diverse experience spanning various industries and roles, Manisha has honed her skills and insights to empower individuals and organizations. Also, she is the author of "The Digital Agile Leader," which empowers aspiring leaders to thrive in an ever-evolving digital landscape.
In this episode, Manisha shares her journey of resilience, growth, and leadership evolution. From witnessing the humble beginnings of a family business to navigating career pivots and eventually founding her venture, she offers candid insights into the challenges and triumphs that shaped her path. Exploring adaptability, stakeholder savvy, and emotional intelligence, Manisha delves into the importance of leading authentically and finding balance amidst leadership demands. With engaging anecdotes and practical tips, she inspires listeners to embrace change, cultivate self-awareness, and strive for excellence in their leadership journeys.
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Full show notes, links to resources mentioned, and other compelling episodes can be found at http://LeadYourGamePodcast.com. (Click the magnifying icon at the top right and type “Manisha”)
Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!
------------
JUST FOR YOU: Increase your leadership acumen by identifying your personal Leadership Trigger. Take my free my free quiz and instantly receive your 5-page report.
Need to up-level your workforce or execute strategic People initiatives? https://shockinglydifferent.com/contact or tweet @KaranRhodes.
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ABOUT MANISHA DHAWAN:Manisha's journey commenced within her family business, Applied Membranes, where she gained comprehensive exposure across all operational functions. Transitioning to roles at esteemed firms like PwC, Deloitte, and Slalom, Manisha spearheaded global digital transformation endeavors, notably contributing to Taco Bell's pioneering digital initiatives.
Also, as the founder of MPath Coaching, Manisha leverages her wealth of experience to nurture leadership capabilities and foster high-performance team dynamics. Her bespoke coaching and training programs, tailored to individual and organizational needs, cover an array of vital subjects such as emotional intelligence, agility, and effective communication.
Manisha's academic foundation includes a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry and an MBA from UC Irvine, complemented by her coaching certification from iPEC. Additionally, she holds an EverythingDiSC authorized partner accreditation and certifications in Emotional Intelligence and Design Thinking, further enriching her toolkit for transformative coaching and leadership development.
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WHAT TO LISTEN FOR:1.    How should individuals and organizations approach digital transformations with care and responsibility?
2.    What are the reasons behind people's resistance to change?
3.    What are the strategies to implement change effectively?
4.    How can one handle a challenging situation with a team member?
5.    Why is stakeholder savvy important in leadership?
6.    How can leaders prioritize self-care