Amplified: The Leadership Student 2.0

M K Palmore

Amplified: Leadership Student 2.0 Podcast, hosted by MK Palmore, is a monthly exploration of the multifaceted world of leadership. Each episode features insightful conversations with guests from diverse industries and backgrounds, delving into the practicalities of leadership, the hard lessons learned, and the deep-water experiences that shape successful leaders.

  1. 12/23/2025

    Leading Through ALS: How Aaron Lazar Rewired His Mindset

    What happens when a Broadway star, single father, and high achiever is diagnosed with ALS at the height of his career? In this episode, Aaron Lazar shares how he transformed crisis into conscious healing, rebuilt his identity, and used adversity to deepen purpose, faith, and self-awareness. You’ll learn practical mindset shifts for leaders facing uncertainty. If this resonates, follow the show and explore more leadership insights at Apogee Global RMS. Timestamps 0:00 – Introducing Aaron Lazar 1:36 – Broadway career, leadership identity, and ALS diagnosis 4:52 – Quad twitching, Google search, and nine months of fear 6:40 – Divorce, identity collapse, and emotional rock bottom 10:25 – How ALS reignited self-belief, faith, and mission 15:33 – Expanding what’s possible through awareness and mindset 27:57 – Fast vs. slow thinking and mental shortcuts 41:58 – The power of the mind and conscious choice 48:14 – Stop being a passenger in your own life 53:52 – Awakening personal power and where to find Aaron Thanks for tuning in to The Leadership Student 2.0 Podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to follow/subscribe so you never miss an inspiring conversation.  Connect with Apogee Global RMS for more leadership insights: Website: https://www.apogeeglobalrms.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mkpalmore/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/apogee_rms/X/Twitter: https://x.com/apogee_rms This episode is brought to you by Apogee Global RMS – experts in risk management solutions. Check out their website to learn more about how they can support your business. Let’s keep growing and leading boldly. Until next time! 🎙️ Thanks for tuning in to The Leadership Student 2.0 Podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to follow/subscribe so you never miss an inspiring conversation. ✨ Connect with Apogee Global RMS for more leadership insights: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mkpalmore/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/apogee_rms/ X/Twitter: https://x.com/apogee_rms 💼 This episode is brought to you by Apogee Global RMS – experts in risk management solutions. Check out their website to learn more about how they can support your business. Let’s keep growing and leading boldly. Until next time!

    1h 4m
  2. 10/20/2025

    Leading Tough Conversations with Confidence

    Leadership today demands courage and compassion. HR executive Jill Washington shares how trust, transparency, and executive coaching strengthen teams and culture. Hear how she rebuilt trust after an unpopular decision, balanced external pressures, and guided leaders through difficult conversations in a changing workplace. 🎧 Listen to Amplified: The Leadership Student 2.0 and explore Apogee Global RMS for tailored leadership coaching solutions. Timestamps 00:00 Introducing Jill Washington 01:12 Early Leadership Lessons 04:46 Making Unpopular Decisions 09:31 Rebuilding Trust After Change 13:36 Leadership Pressures & External Influences 18:26 Talent Management & Leadership Development 21:35 Leadership in Strategy Meetings 23:21 Executive Recruiting & “Failing Up” 30:48 Difficult Conversations & Performance Management 36:21 HR’s Evolving Role 39:05 Employee Wellness & Mental Health 45:28 Final Thoughts 🎙️ Thanks for tuning in to The Leadership Student 2.0 Podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to follow/subscribe so you never miss an inspiring conversation. ✨ Connect with Apogee Global RMS for more leadership insights: - Website: https://www.apogeeglobalrms.com/  - LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mkpalmore/  - Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/apogee_rms/  - X/Twitter: https://x.com/apogee_rms  - 💼 This episode is brought to you by Apogee Global RMS – experts in risk management solutions. Check out their website to learn more about how they can support your business. - Let’s keep growing and leading boldly. Until next time! 🎙️ Thanks for tuning in to The Leadership Student 2.0 Podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to follow/subscribe so you never miss an inspiring conversation. ✨ Connect with Apogee Global RMS for more leadership insights: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mkpalmore/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/apogee_rms/ X/Twitter: https://x.com/apogee_rms 💼 This episode is brought to you by Apogee Global RMS – experts in risk management solutions. Check out their website to learn more about how they can support your business. Let’s keep growing and leading boldly. Until next time!

    47 min
  3. 10/06/2025

    Transforming Talent Acquisition With Data-Driven HR

    Leadership is action, not a title. In this episode, discover how HR analytics and AI are transforming talent acquisition, shaping culture, and driving retention. From emotional intelligence to people development ROI, today’s leaders must blend data with empathy to build stronger teams. We also explore Toni Walsh’s Behaviour Change Coaching, where mindset, consistency, and accountability fuel lasting transformation. Tune in for insights to hire smarter, grow culture, and lead boldly. Timestamps 0:00 Introduction & Guest Welcome   0:35 Early Leadership Lessons and Influences   01:39 The Power of EQ in Leadership   03:12 Servant Leadership and Leadership as Action   04:45 Industry Trends: Leadership Development Successes   07:25 Customizing Leadership Development Programs 08:57 Leadership Pitfalls: Promoting Without Readiness 13:09 Assessing Leadership Readiness    14:50 The ROI of People Development   18:59 Culture’s Impact on Retention and Growth   21:04 The Expanding Role of HR Leaders   26:14 Talent Acquisition: Current Challenges   36:08 Technology, AI, and Analytics in Recruiting   42:07 Final Thoughts on Leadership and Lifelong Learning   43:27 Closing Remarks and Episode Wrap-Up 🎙️ Thanks for tuning in to The Leadership Student 2.0 Podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to follow/subscribe so you never miss an inspiring conversation. ✨ Connect with Apogee Global RMS for more leadership insights: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mkpalmore/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/apogee_rms/ X/Twitter: https://x.com/apogee_rms 💼 This episode is brought to you by Apogee Global RMS – experts in risk management solutions. Check out their website to learn more about how they can support your business. Let’s keep growing and leading boldly. Until next time!

    44 min
  4. 09/22/2025

    Why Leadership Fails and Strong Culture Wins

    Leadership isn’t accidental; it’s intentional.  In this episode, discover how Gallup Strengths and leadership assessments fuel culture, accountability, and long-term performance. Learn why leadership programs often get cut, the evolving role of HR, and the toolkits leaders need for difficult conversations and talent challenges. With stories from the field and proven strategies, you’ll gain insights to grow with clarity, confidence, and impact.  Subscribe or visit Apogee Global RMS for resources. Timestamps 0:00 Introduction & Guest Welcome 1:10 The Current Landscape of Leadership Development 2:22 Culture, Behavior & Missed Opportunities 5:55 Why Leadership Programs Get Cut 8:03 HR’s Role in Leadership Development 10:30 Practical Toolkits for Leaders That Work 14:13 Teaching Leaders Difficult Conversations 18:51 The Real Value of Leadership Assessments 23:10 Lessons from Great Leaders in Action 25:05 Talent Acquisition Trends & Economic Shifts 28:05 Advice for Job Seekers  30:53 Core Advice for Leadership Development 32:42 Closing Thoughts  Thanks for tuning in to The Leadership Student 2.0 Podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to follow/subscribe so you never miss an inspiring conversation. Connect with Apogee Global RMS for more leadership insights: Website: https://www.apogeeglobalrms.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mkpalmore/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/apogee_rms/X/Twitter: https://x.com/apogee_rms This episode is brought to you by Apogee Global RMS – experts in risk management solutions. Check out their website to learn more about how they can support your business.Let’s keep growing and leading boldly. Until next time!🎙️ Thanks for tuning in to The Leadership Student 2.0 Podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to follow/subscribe so you never miss an inspiring conversation. ✨ Connect with Apogee Global RMS for more leadership insights: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mkpalmore/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/apogee_rms/ X/Twitter: https://x.com/apogee_rms 💼 This episode is brought to you by Apogee Global RMS – experts in risk management solutions. Check out their website to learn more about how they can support your business. Let’s keep growing and leading boldly. Until next time!

    33 min
  5. 09/08/2025

    How EQ and AI Are Shaping Modern Leadership

    Explore what it takes to lead in today’s world with HR executive Paul Carney. Learn why emotional intelligence is essential for leadership, how AI is reshaping HR and recruiting, and proven ways to build high-performing teams. Acquire strategies for career growth and organizational strengthening. Subscribe to the podcast and connect with Apogee Global RMS for tailored leadership development solutions. Begin your path to leadership excellence today. Timestamps 00:00 Introducing Paul Carney 00:50 Defining the Current State of Leadership 01:51 Transitioning from Team Leader to Leader of Leaders 03:56 Personal Leadership Journeys and Career Shifts 06:28 Technical Expertise vs. Leadership Skills   07:59 Passion for Leadership and Teaching 08:55 Can Leadership Be Learned? 12:17 Essential Qualities of Great Leaders 15:49 Learning from Failure 17:22 Practical Advice for Emerging Leaders 22:26 Entering HR and Lessons Learned   23:39 Must-Have Skills for HR Leaders 27:59 Leadership Development and Learning Programs  31:22 Recruiting Trends and Challenges 33:28 Hiring for Critical Thinking Skills 34:37 How to Prepare for Executive Roles 37:54 Writing, Speaking, and Sharing Leadership Insights   38:57 AI’s Impact on the Future of Work 41:10 Final Takeaways 🎙️ Thanks for tuning in to The Leadership Student 2.0 Podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to follow/subscribe so you never miss an inspiring conversation. ✨ Connect with Apogee Global RMS for more leadership insights: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mkpalmore/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/apogee_rms/ X/Twitter: https://x.com/apogee_rms 💼 This episode is brought to you by Apogee Global RMS – experts in risk management solutions. Check out their website to learn more about how they can support your business. Let’s keep growing and leading boldly. Until next time!

    42 min
  6. 08/25/2025

    Mastering Leadership and Negotiation in Global Crisis Events

    Explore leadership lessons from Israel’s October 7 crisis and discover how trust, empathy, and negotiation under pressure can redefine enterprise risk management. Guests Adi Rotem and David Zimmermann share hard-won insights from counterterrorism, the FBI, and national security, revealing strategies that apply to boardrooms as much as battlefields. Learn how shifting from control to trust transforms leadership. Subscribe now or visit our website for exclusive resources. Timestamps 00:00 Why This Podcast Matters 00:52 Meet Adi Rotem & David Zimmermann 07:57 Leadership Philosophies That Shape Success 10:58 Managing vs. Leading 14:51 Lessons Learned from Experience 19:42 Learning from Failure and the Value of Challenges 28:14 Essential Leadership Skills   32:06 October 7th: Crisis Leadership & Negotiation Insights  42:57 Importance of Leadership and Mentorship 45:21 Closing Remarks 🎙️ Thanks for tuning in to The Leadership Student 2.0 Podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to follow/subscribe so you never miss an inspiring conversation. ✨ Connect with Apogee Global RMS for more leadership insights: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mkpalmore/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/apogee_rms/ X/Twitter: https://x.com/apogee_rms 💼 This episode is brought to you by Apogee Global RMS – experts in risk management solutions. Check out their website to learn more about how they can support your business. Let’s keep growing and leading boldly. Until next time!

    47 min
  7. 08/11/2025

    How Leading with Humanity Changes Everything

    Leadership expert Russell Davis shares how servant leadership transforms organizations by centering human dignity. From the Peace Corps to the boardroom, he unpacks how ethical leadership, empathy, and resilience fuel high-performing teams. Join MK Palmore in this episode and discover actionable ways to rebuild trust, lead with intention, and redefine success, not through power but through care, clarity, and connection. Timestamps 00:00 Meet Russell Davis 02:36 Russell’s Mission and Early Path 04:09 Peace Corps Lessons & Early Leadership Challenges 08:49 What Servant Leadership Really Means 12:17 Surviving a Bonfire Explosion and Resilience 17:54 How Positivity Changes Everything 23:29 Russell’s Empowering Leadership Philosophy 27:17 Rebuilding Trust with Wounded Team Members 31:58 Inside Russell’s Leadership Models and Writings 35:39 Why Ethics Is the Cornerstone of Real Leadership 39:50 Final Thoughts and Where to Learn More 🎙️ Thanks for tuning in to The Leadership Student 2.0 Podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to follow/subscribe so you never miss an inspiring conversation. ✨ Connect with Apogee Global RMS for more leadership insights: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mkpalmore/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/apogee_rms/ X/Twitter: https://x.com/apogee_rms 💼 This episode is brought to you by Apogee Global RMS – experts in risk management solutions. Check out their website to learn more about how they can support your business. Let’s keep growing and leading boldly. Until next time!

    41 min
  8. 07/28/2025

    Trust, Context & Connection: Keys to True Leadership

    Leadership isn’t about being the hero: it’s about empowering others. In this episode, former FBI agent and U.S. Marine Robin Dreeke reveals how shifting from self-focus to people-first leadership builds trust and transforms teams. Discover four core communication keys, why empathy beats popularity, and how great leaders create space for others to succeed. Ready to lead with impact? Connect with Apogee Global RMS for tailored leadership development solutions. Timestamps 00:00 Introduction 01:38 Meet Robin Dreeke: Marine, FBI Agent, Author 03:32 What Shaped Robin’s Leadership Philosophy 07:31 Robin’s Bestseller Books 12:13 How to Evaluate Trust in Any Relationship 16:16 Why Trust Is Really About Predictability 19:04 The Shift From Manager to People-First Leader 22:41 Why Empathy Is Your Leadership Superpower 34:14 The Real Challenges Inside Corporate Leadership 36:36 Why Leadership Programs Get Cut and Its Risks 44:33 Closing Thoughts 🎙️ Thanks for tuning in to The Leadership Student 2.0 Podcast! If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to follow/subscribe so you never miss an inspiring conversation. ✨ Connect with Apogee Global RMS for more leadership insights: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mkpalmore/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/apogee_rms/ X/Twitter: https://x.com/apogee_rms 💼 This episode is brought to you by Apogee Global RMS – experts in risk management solutions. Check out their website to learn more about how they can support your business. Let’s keep growing and leading boldly. Until next time!

    47 min

About

Amplified: Leadership Student 2.0 Podcast, hosted by MK Palmore, is a monthly exploration of the multifaceted world of leadership. Each episode features insightful conversations with guests from diverse industries and backgrounds, delving into the practicalities of leadership, the hard lessons learned, and the deep-water experiences that shape successful leaders.