Unapologetic Leadership

Cory Dunham
  • 5.0 (1)
  • Business

In a noisy, distracted world, authentic leadership matters more than ever. Hosted by Cory Dunham—entrepreneur, business leader, and follower of Jesus—this podcast is real talk for real leaders who want to live and lead with clarity, courage, and conviction. From overcoming fear mindsets to leading with love, Cory shares personal stories, faith-driven values, and practical tools that help you grow as a leader in your workplace, family, and community. Each episode offers actionable takeaways, mindset shifts, and sometimes guest insights—so you can lead without burnout, build trust, create alignment, and anchor yourself in what truly matters. Whether you’re a boss, teacher, parent, entrepreneur, career professional, or single mom, this show will help you lead yourself and others in a way that’s bold, authentic, and sustainable. Because leadership isn’t a title—it’s a way of living. Subscribe and join a community of leaders who are done with surface-level living. The world doesn’t need louder leaders—it needs leaders who are clear, courageous, and grounded.

  1. 11h ago

    Why Soft Skills Win in Leadership: Science vs Art, with Abbas Alimorad

    Will AI replace great leaders? Not if leadership remains human. In this episode of Unapologetic Leadership, Cory Dunham sits down with Abbas Alimorad, executive leader, board member, AI and strategy advisor, and project management expert, to explore why the future of leadership isn't about choosing between technology and people. It's about mastering both. Drawing from more than 20 years of experience leading complex initiatives across higher education, government, and healthcare, Abbas explains why AI excels at processing information, analyzing data, and improving efficiency, but will never replace the human qualities that define exceptional leadership. Empathy, emotional intelligence, communication, trust, resilience, and integrity remain the competitive advantages every leader must develop. The conversation also explores mentorship, networking, lifelong learning, raising resilient children, overcoming setbacks, and staying grounded in your values when facing pressure. Abbas shares why every challenge is an opportunity to grow and why authentic leadership begins with putting people before performance. About Abbas Alimorad A recognized executive leader and keynote speaker, Abbas specializes in transforming project management and organizational performance through intelligence, innovation, and strategic leadership. He is known for advancing organizational growth through evidence-based planning, inclusive change management, operational excellence, and collaborative leadership. Abbas holds a Master of Arts in Leadership from the University of Guelph, a Master of Professional Education in Educational Leadership from Western University, and is a certified Project Management Professional (PMP). Whether you're leading a team, implementing AI, managing complex projects, or preparing for the future of work, this episode will help you embrace technology without losing the human connection that great leadership requires. Because technology may transform the way we work. But it's our humanity that determines how we lead. Connect with Abbas Alimorad LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abbasalimorad/ Email: abbas@jhmjconsulting.com

    36 min

  2. 5d ago

    Building High-Performance Human Teams in the Automotive Industry, with Jill Trotta

    What's the secret to building high-performing teams that deliver results without burning people out? In this episode of Unapologetic Leadership, Cory Dunham sits down with Jill Trotta, Managing Director of One Guard Inspections, a Repairify company, to explore what it really means to lead people instead of simply managing numbers. With more than 30 years in the automotive and mobility industry, Jill shares how trust, empathy, integrity, and authentic relationships create stronger teams, better performance, and lasting success. About Jill Trotta From navigating personal loss while leading a new team to mentoring future leaders and championing women in the automotive industry, Jill offers practical leadership lessons on empowering people, preventing burnout, giving meaningful feedback, and creating cultures where individuals can thrive. She also explains why sustainable business success begins by recognizing that your greatest asset isn't your product or process. It's your people. Known for her high-energy, people-first leadership style, Jill has built a career leading growth across startups and enterprise organizations, overseeing multi-million-dollar P&Ls, driving strategic partnerships, scaling operations, and leading successful business exits. She is respected for combining high standards with low ego, clear accountability, and a commitment to building organizations that honor the people behind the work. Whether you're leading a small team or a global organization, this conversation will inspire you to lead with purpose, humanity, and courage. Because great leaders don't just build successful companies. They build successful people. Connect with Jill Trotta LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jilltrotta/

    36 min

  3. Jun 24

    Serving Nonprofits with Compassion, While Showing God's Grace, with Dr. Kimberly Terry, EdD

    In this inspiring episode of Unapologetic Leadership, Cory Dunham sits down with Dr. Kimberly Terry, consultant, nonprofit leader, and humanitarian, to discuss what it means to lead with compassion, humility, and faith. Dr. Terry shares her journey from corporate America to building a mission-driven consulting business and nonprofit organization serving women and children in Sierra Leone. Together, they explore powerful leadership lessons about personal transformation, healing from past wounds, receiving difficult feedback, and allowing faith to shape how we show up in the world. This conversation dives into overcoming adversity, embracing humility, practicing financial stewardship, and discovering how God's grace can guide leaders through both success and challenge. Dr. Terry also shares how servant leadership, compassion, and authentic relationships can create lasting impact in both professional and personal settings. If you're a leader, entrepreneur, nonprofit professional, or person of faith looking to make a greater impact, this episode will encourage you to lead with authenticity, serve others with purpose, and stay focused on your calling. Tune in to learn how faith-driven leadership, resilience, and genuine human connection can transform both your life and the lives of those you serve. About Dr. Kimberly Terry Dr. Kimberly Terry, EdD, is a Consultant, Group Facilitator, and Program Evaluator. She is an experienced leader in health and human services with strong emotional intelligence and compassion. Dr. Terry possesses a unique blend of technological expertise and business acumen and is passionate about travel, writing, and movies. She is always ready for her next adventure. Connect with Dr. Kimberly Terry Website: https://www.drkim-speaks.com/ Email: kterry@magnifiedigc.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drkimspeaks/

    38 min

  4. Jun 19

    From Freelancer to Founder: Uncertainty, Courage, and Business Growth, with Annett Forcier

    What do you do when there is no clear path forward? In this episode of Unapologetic Leadership, Cory Dunham sits down with entrepreneur, email marketing expert, and business owner Annett Forcier, Founder of EmailBoutique.io, to discuss the realities of building a business, embracing uncertainty, and creating opportunities where none seem to exist. About Annett Forcier Annett shares her journey from freelancer to founder, the lessons she's learned about leadership, client relationships, AI, productivity, and business growth, and why some of the most important breakthroughs happen when you're willing to step outside your comfort zone. From navigating risk and learning through failure to building trust, creating systems, and developing resilience, this conversation is packed with practical insights for entrepreneurs, leaders, and anyone building something meaningful. With more than a decade of experience in email design and development, Annett specializes in custom email design systems, modular templates, and scalable email infrastructure for growing brands. As the founder of EmailBoutique.io and recipient of the Litmus Email First Innovator Award, she helps organizations move beyond fragile, one-off email builds to sustainable systems that improve efficiency, consistency, accessibility, and performance. Known for her candid, no-fluff approach to leadership, boundaries, and business ownership, Annett also shares valuable perspectives on building a company on your own terms while navigating the worlds of technology, consulting, and creative work. If you've ever felt uncertain about your next step, struggled with growth, or wondered how successful entrepreneurs keep moving forward despite the unknown, this episode will remind you that confidence doesn't come before action. It comes from taking the next step anyway. Connect with Annett Forcier Website: https://emailboutique.io Email: welcome@emailboutique.io Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emailboutique/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/annettforcier/ Because leadership isn't about having all the answers. It's about having the courage to keep moving forward when you don't.

    44 min

  5. Jun 17

    Culture and Growth, The Leadership Principles That Transfer Across Every Industry, with Russell Warner

    What do mortgages, marketing, and skateboards have in common? More than you think. In this episode of Unapologetic Leadership, Cory Dunham sits down with entrepreneur, CEO, and sales leader Russell Warner to explore the leadership principles that transcend industries. From building businesses and leading teams to creating strong cultures and navigating rapid growth, Russell shares lessons learned from decades of entrepreneurship across multiple sectors. Together, they discuss the importance of hiring people smarter than you, creating a culture of collaboration, avoiding "CEO-itis," embracing innovation, listening to customers, and developing what Russell calls an "Us-Em" mindset where teams focus on solutions rather than blame. Whether you're leading a startup, managing a growing organization, or building a legacy business, this conversation offers practical insights on leadership, culture, adaptability, innovation, and sustainable growth in a rapidly changing world. About Russell Warner Russell Warner is the CEO of Ghost Boards, where his leadership has helped drive more than $10 million in sales through strategic product launches, operational excellence, and market expansion. With expertise in sales leadership, marketing, B2B and B2C growth, and P&L management, Russell has built a brand known for innovation, creativity, and customer engagement. His passion for building high-performing teams and fostering cultures built on trust, collaboration, and continuous improvement has made him a respected leader across multiple industries. Connect with Russell Website: https://ghostboards.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/russelldeewarner/ Instagram: @ghostlongboard Phone: +1 (801) 599-7447 Because great leadership isn't about having all the answers. It's about building a team that can find them together.

    42 min

  6. Jun 12

    Integrity First and Freedom by Design: Finding the Right Franchise, with Richard Potter

    What if business ownership didn't mean starting from scratch? In this episode of Unapologetic Leadership, Cory Dunham sits down with entrepreneur, franchise consultant, and multi-business owner Richard Potter to explore how professionals can transition from corporate careers into business ownership with greater confidence and less risk. Richard shares how he helps burned-out executives and veterans find franchise opportunities that align with their skills, values, income goals, and desired lifestyle. Drawing from his own journey of building, scaling, and operating multiple businesses, Richard discusses the importance of integrity, long-term thinking, time freedom, financial freedom, and avoiding the costly mistakes many entrepreneurs make. He also reveals why the right franchise can provide the systems, support, and community needed to accelerate success while reducing uncertainty. Whether you're considering entrepreneurship, looking for a better work-life balance, or searching for a path toward greater freedom and legacy, this episode offers practical insights into creating a business designed to support the life you want to live. About Richard Potter Richard Potter is a multi-business owner and franchise consultant who helps burned-out executives and veterans transition from corporate careers into structured business ownership. After more than a decade in corporate sales, he moved into entrepreneurship and has since built, scaled, and exited multiple businesses while continuing to actively operate today. Rather than promoting hype or speculation, Richard helps clients evaluate proven franchise models that align with their strengths, values, and lifestyle goals. His approach focuses on reducing risk, avoiding costly mistakes, and helping people build businesses that create both financial and personal freedom. Connect with Richard Website: https://FranchiseHeroes.co Schedule a Call: https://meetings.hubspot.com/richard-potter/zoom Email: Rich@QuantumFranchiseGroup.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rich-potter-533381a Because true leadership isn't just about building a career. It's about building a life by design.

    31 min

  7. Jun 10

    Nonprofit Mission Drift is Expensive, and Flexible Leaders Don’t Break, with Sharmon Lebby

    What happens when organizations chase funding instead of purpose? In this episode of Unapologetic Leadership, Cory Dunham sits down with nonprofit consultant, brand strategist, and ethical business advocate Sharmon Lebby to discuss leadership, mission drift, collaboration, and building organizations that create lasting impact. Sharmon shares why many nonprofits and businesses struggle when they lose sight of their core values, how mission drift can quietly damage an organization's effectiveness, and why leaders must prioritize purpose over profit. She also explores the power of community over competition, the importance of strong boundaries, emotional intelligence, adaptability, and how flexible leaders create stronger teams and healthier cultures. Whether you're a nonprofit leader, entrepreneur, executive, or business owner, this conversation offers practical insights on leading with integrity, staying aligned with your mission, building meaningful partnerships, and creating sustainable growth without compromising your values. About Sharmon Lebby Sharmon Lebby is the Founder & CEO of Blessed Designs Consulting, a nonprofit and small business consulting agency dedicated to helping social and environmental impact organizations thrive. With more than 20 years of experience in nonprofits and launching new initiatives, she helps purpose-driven organizations build strong foundations for long-term success. A former Neuroscience Research Associate and recovering ethical fashion entrepreneur, Sharmon is passionate about equality, equity, and justice, helping turn big ideas into sustainable impact. Connect with Sharmon Website: www.BlessedDesignsCo.com Facebook: www.facebook.com/blesseddesignsco Instagram: www.instagram.com/blesseddesignsco Threads: www.threads.com/@justsharmon YouTube: www.youtube.com/@sharmonlebby

    35 min

  8. Jun 3

    Revenue Without Relationships Is Dead: AI Can't Replace Trust, with Mike Reardon

    Is AI helping businesses grow, or is it quietly destroying the relationships that drive revenue? In this episode of Unapologetic Leadership, Cory Dunham sits down with Mike Reardon, Founder of Be Effective and Fractional CRO, to explore the intersection of leadership, sales, AI, trust, and human connection. Mike shares why relationships, communication, culture, and genuine human intelligence remain the true drivers of business success, even as organizations race toward automation and artificial intelligence. Drawing from decades of sales, business development, and revenue growth experience, Mike explains why most companies don't have a sales problem. They have a revenue operating system problem. He reveals how inefficient systems, poor communication, lack of alignment, and weak leadership can quietly cost businesses hundreds of thousands of dollars in lost revenue. The conversation explores leadership, employee engagement, sales performance, organizational growth, AI adoption, customer relationships, business strategy, and why trust remains the most valuable asset in today's marketplace. Mike also shares practical insights on building scalable systems, improving team performance, and creating sustainable growth without sacrificing the human element that drives long-term success. About Mike Reardon Mike is currently transforming into a Fractional CRO focused on helping businesses achieve breakthrough growth and scale. His career foundation is rooted in contrarian sales professionalism, successfully selling without conventional industry experience, formal credentials, or extensive business support. His unique perspective has helped organizations uncover hidden revenue leaks and build more effective revenue operating systems. If you're a leader, entrepreneur, consultant, sales professional, or business owner navigating the AI revolution, this episode will challenge how you think about growth, trust, leadership, and the future of business. Connect with Mike here Website: https://beffective.ca/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mikepcreardon/ Phone: +1 (514) 213-5947

    51 min
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About

In a noisy, distracted world, authentic leadership matters more than ever. Hosted by Cory Dunham—entrepreneur, business leader, and follower of Jesus—this podcast is real talk for real leaders who want to live and lead with clarity, courage, and conviction. From overcoming fear mindsets to leading with love, Cory shares personal stories, faith-driven values, and practical tools that help you grow as a leader in your workplace, family, and community. Each episode offers actionable takeaways, mindset shifts, and sometimes guest insights—so you can lead without burnout, build trust, create alignment, and anchor yourself in what truly matters. Whether you’re a boss, teacher, parent, entrepreneur, career professional, or single mom, this show will help you lead yourself and others in a way that’s bold, authentic, and sustainable. Because leadership isn’t a title—it’s a way of living. Subscribe and join a community of leaders who are done with surface-level living. The world doesn’t need louder leaders—it needs leaders who are clear, courageous, and grounded.

Information

  • Creator
    Cory Dunham
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    49
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Unapologetic Leadership
  • Show Website
    Unapologetic Leadership