Chief Influencer Social Driver

Johnny C. Taylor serves as the President and CEO of SHRM, a global organization dedicated to advocating for the interests of workers and workplaces. With a membership of 325,000 individuals spanning 165 countries, SHRM is a leading authority and convener on contemporary workplace issues, impacting millions of workers and families worldwide.

At the core of Johnny's leadership philosophy lies a belief in the transformative potential of personal branding and workplace civility. He underscores the importance of authenticity, urging leaders to remain true to themselves across professional and personal spheres. Johnny distinguishes himself as a leader committed to fostering positive influence and meaningful connections by prioritizing trust and civility.

In today’s episode, Johnny shares his approach to embracing change and prioritizing his digital presence. He discusses the challenges of navigating difficult conversations and promoting inclusivity while highlighting the strategic significance of personal branding in cultivating trust and influence. Moreover, Johnny offers insights into modern leadership complexities, advocating for embracing change and exploring the integration of AI in the workforce.

Takeaways:
The world is evolving rapidly, and leaders must cultivate a mindset that welcomes change as an opportunity for growth and innovation. By practicing adaptability, leaders can navigate challenges and seize new opportunities more effectively.Authenticity is crucial in today’s workplace. Leaders need to be genuine, transparent, and true to their values. This builds trust and credibility, creating a stronger connection with their teams.The shift to remote and hybrid work models has shown the importance of trusting employees. Leaders should focus on outcomes rather than monitoring every step, fostering an environment of empowerment and respect.Disagreements are inevitable, but how we handle them makes all the difference. Leaders should promote healthy, respectful discourse and encourage teams to 'disagree better,' enhancing collaboration and understanding.Inclusion goes beyond diversity numbers. It’s about making every individual feel valued and heard. Leaders must strive to create workplaces where everyone feels they belong, contributing to a more cohesive and productive environment.With AI and automation reshaping job landscapes, leaders must guide their teams toward embracing new technologies. This includes identifying new skill requirements and preparing employees for future challenges and opportunities.Leaders should prioritize effective policy-making that benefits the workforce and the organization over political considerations. This approach ensures decisions are made based on data, fairness, and the company's and its people's long-term well-being.
Quote of the Show:
“We have to create an environment where we can disagree better. Where we can have a civil conversation, and that doesn't mean you compromise on your values and what you believe in.” - Johnny C. TaylorLinks:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/johnnyctaylorjr SHRM Website: https://www.shrm.org Reset: A Leader’s Guide to Work in an Age of Upheaval (Book link): https://a.co/d/6Wo59NI 
Shout Outs:
Roy Abdo on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/royabdo Digital Revamp (Website): https://digitalrevamp.com 

Steven Taylor is the President and CEO of the Arthritis Foundation, an organization dedicated to finding a cure and improving the lives of nearly 60 million Americans with arthritis. They align advocacy and science with patient priorities, drive progress through awareness, education, and research, and empower individuals with arthritis to live fuller lives.

Steven delves into his unique approach, characterized by his unwavering commitment to cultivating a supportive community, both internally and externally, while discussing their utilization of social media as a valuable tool for amplifying their mission. At the core of Taylor's leadership is a profound empathy, drawn from his personal journey, which drives his pursuit of impactful transformation.

Stay tuned to gain valuable insights into empathetic leadership, the significance of building inclusive communities, and the lasting effects of genuine care and recognition. Steven emphasizes the importance of enjoying life, saying yes to more, and saying no to less, highlighting the need for mutual inspiration and collaboration. This encapsulates the core of impactful leadership, illustrating how a supportive environment can lead to organizational success, whether enhancing quality of life or advocating for a cure.

Takeaways:
Leaders should prioritize genuine, open communication with their team and community. Personal stories and experiences inspire and connect people on a deeper level. Publicly recognizing the work of volunteers, staff, and colleagues fosters a culture of appreciation and motivates everyone to continue their efforts. Understanding and acknowledging the challenges others face, including chronic diseases or personal losses, make leaders more approachable and relatable. Creating opportunities for engagement, such as virtual events or water cooler conversations, helps build a supportive community, especially in remote work environments. Being active and visible on platforms like LinkedIn strengthens personal branding for leaders and shines a spotlight on their organization’s mission and achievements. Whether adopting new technologies or embracing virtual worlds for team engagement, leaders must remain flexible and open to change to keep their organizations forward-thinking. Leaders can achieve greater impact by seeking consensus and fostering collaboration across various stakeholders within and outside their organization.
Quote of the Show:
“People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.” - Steven Taylor
Links:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/steven-taylor-a18b9b2  Arthritis Foundation (Website): https://www.arthritis.org 
Shout Outs:
The Sjögren’s Foundation: https://sjogrens.org Brené Brown on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brenebrown Sabrina Sexton on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sabrinasexton Sarah Miller on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-miller-4553b29 Shannon Marang Cox on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shannon-marang-cox The California Coast Classic Bike Tour: https://www.arthritis.org/events/bike-event Lauren Clanton on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauren-clanton-312a8a18 The National Health Council: https://nationalhealthcouncil.org The National Institutes of Health: https://www.nih.gov Cass Wheeler on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cass-wheeler-9704688 Nancy Brown on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancybrownaha The American Cancer Society: https://www.cancer.org The American Diabetes Association: https://diabetes.org Brian Saber - Fundraising for Introverts: Harnessing Our Powers for What Matters: https://a.co/d/bFW26Q1 

Bill Smith is the Founder and CEO of Inseparable, an organization dedicated to advancing mental health policy. Additionally, he holds the position of Chair at Civitas Public Affairs Group, a firm he co-founded. At Civitas, he guides philanthropists, foundations, and donor collaboratives on various policy objectives alongside national non-profit organizations striving for progressive policy advancements.

In today’s conversation with host Anthony Shop, Bill shares insights into his impactful journey of shaping mental health policy and empowering the LGBTQ+ community politically. He delves into the founding motivations behind Inseparable, stressing the significance of research and genuine communication in driving policy transformations. Bill also discusses successful strategies for achieving significant policy victories across different states.

Together, they explore leveraging research for influence, simplifying intricate messages effectively, and harnessing authenticity and encouragement to propel social change. Bill advocates for leaders to recruit individuals smarter than themselves, fostering a culture of brilliance and collaboration within organizations, thereby ensuring success through collective intelligence and expertise.

Takeaways:
Be yourself in your communications and leadership style. Authenticity resonates with people and builds trust. Establish a genuine connection with your team, stakeholders, and audience.Surround yourself with people who are more intelligent than you. This approach enhances your team's overall capabilities and fosters learning and innovation.Determine the core areas or issues that need addressing and concentrate your efforts there. A focused approach ensures impactful outcomes and better allocation of resources.Before embarking on any major project or initiative, invest in research. Understanding the opinions and needs of your audience is essential for crafting messages that resonate and to make informed decisions.Research and data are invaluable; let them guide your communications, decisions, and strategies. Even if the findings challenge your assumptions, being open to data-driven insights can lead to more effective outcomes.Develop messaging that is straightforward and resonates with your audience. Simplifying complex ideas into relatable, engaging narratives can amplify your influence and the impact of your messages.Personalize your communication to build deeper connections. Whether through emails, social media, or direct engagement, sharing your journey, challenges, and successes can inspire and engage people more effectively.
Quote of the Show:
“At the end of the day, you have to listen to research because if it's done well, it's telling you what people think and it's telling you what you need to hear.” - Bill Smith
Links:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bill-smith-7376424 Inseparable (Website): https://www.inseparable.us Civitas Public Affairs Group (Website): https://www.civitaspublicaffairs.com 
Shout Outs:
The Gill Foundation: https://gillfoundation.org Jan Van Lohuizen: https://www.c-span.org/person/?16114/JanVanLohuizen 

Dr. Joel Braunstein is the CEO and Co-Founder of C₂N Diagnostics, a company dedicated to the development and commercialization of diagnostics for Alzheimer's disease and related neurodegenerative conditions.

In today's episode, Dr. Braunstein offers insights from his extensive experience in the healthcare sector, detailing his academic journey and highlighting the pivotal role played by C₂N in advancing Alzheimer's diagnostics over the past two decades. Engaging in conversation with host Anthony Shop, Dr. Braunstein traces the evolution of Alzheimer's disease diagnosis, from conventional methods to the groundbreaking blood test pioneered by C₂N, which provides a more accessible and less invasive diagnostic alternative.

Throughout the discussion, Dr. Braunstein underscores the importance of early and accurate diagnosis in Alzheimer's disease management, emphasizing its potential for treatment intervention and its profound impact on patients and their families. He also addresses the challenges inherent in navigating the healthcare industry and stresses the significance of stakeholder engagement. Furthermore, Dr. Braunstein reflects on the complexities of communicating scientific advancements to diverse audiences, including patients, clinicians, and policymakers, highlighting the delicate balance between ethical responsibility and the imperative of raising disease awareness effectively.

Takeaways:
Leaders should commit to relentless pursuit in their fields, especially when facing long-term challenges. For instance, Braunstein's dedication to Alzheimer's research underscores the importance of steadfast commitment to making a difference.Be transparent and evidence-driven in your communication, especially when introducing new technologies or innovations. Leveraging reliable data to support claims builds trust among stakeholders, from patients to practitioners.Develop a company culture rooted in a strong moral fiber. This moral basis helps navigate the complexities of balancing legal, marketing, and ethical considerations while ensuring the company's dealings enhance patient care and trust in the industry.Use professional networks like LinkedIn to share progress and highlights with a broader audience. This can enhance visibility among stakeholders and keep them informed about important milestones and innovations.Understanding and addressing the needs of patients and their families as primary stakeholders can significantly improve the effectiveness and reception of healthcare solutions. This places importance on simplifying the patient journey and making medical interventions more accessible and less invasive.Leaders should recognize the importance of stress relief and personal well-being in maintaining a productive and happy team. Enabling team members to pursue passions outside of work can foster a balanced and innovative workplace environment.
Quote of the Show:
"It all starts with a high moral integrity, and this moral fiber permeates throughout all elements of the organization." - Joel Braunstein
Links:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joel-braunstein-md-9456611 C₂N Diagnostics (Website): https://c2n.com 
Shout Outs:
The Robert Wood Johnson Clinical Scholars Program: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/general-internal-medicine/training-education/fellowship/rwj Brigham and Women's Hospital: https://eye.hms.harvard.edu/brighamandwomens Johns Hopkins Carey Business School: https://carey.jhu.edu Northwestern University - Feinberg School of Medicine: https://www.feinberg.northwestern.edu Washington University School of Medicine: https://medicine.wustl.edu Randall J. Bateman, MD: https://physicians.wustl.edu/people/randall-j-bateman-md David M. Holtzman, MD: https://holtzmanlab.wustl.edu/people/david-m-holtzman-md Ilana Fogelman, MD, MPH, on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ilana-fogelman-5142014 

Congressman Andy Kim serves as a U.S. representative for the Third Congressional District of New Jersey. In today’s episode, Congressman Kim delves into his journey from serving in various government roles, including at the Pentagon and in Afghanistan, to campaigning for the United States Senate. 

As a career public servant and the first Democratic member of Congress of Korean descent, Congressman Kim emphasizes the importance of integrity, bipartisanship, and advocacy for democracy. He discusses his legal battle against New Jersey's 'county line' ballot system to promote fairness in elections. He also reflects on the personal and professional challenges faced when taking a stand against party norms. Highlighting the profound impact of his efforts to maintain the Capitol's dignity post-January 6th, Congressman Kim stresses the significance of authenticity and connecting with constituents through storytelling. 

He also delves into the critical need for leadership that embraces risk, engages with diverse perspectives, and is rooted in a commitment to public service and democratic values. Congressman Kim emphasizes the power of showing up, engaging earnestly in both digital and physical spaces, and maintaining a commitment to service above self.

Takeaways:
Leaders should always remember they are part of something larger than themselves. Engaging in public service or contributing to communal goals can guide decisions and actions, fostering a holistic approach to leadership.In today's digital age, leaders need to be physically present and authentically engage through digital platforms. Direct access to social media allows leaders to showcase their genuine selves, building trust and rapport with their audience.A key characteristic of influential leaders is their ability to take calculated risks after considering all available information. This willingness to step into the unknown while being informed can lead to monumental changes and growth.Through storytelling, leaders can connect deeper, sharing personal motivations and beliefs. This cultivates a stronger, more personal connection with the audience, allowing leaders to communicate and inspire action effectively.Creating an environment where honest and diverse opinions are valued is crucial for leaders. This ensures a well-rounded understanding of situations and fosters a culture of openness and trust.Leaders must learn to be comfortable with discomfort to cultivate resilience and adaptability. This ability allows them to navigate challenges more effectively and take bold steps when needed.By recognizing and valuing the contributions of others, leaders can foster teamwork and collective success. Leadership is not about individual accolades but about collaboratively working towards common goals.
Quote of the Show:
“If you're only having comfortable conversations in life, it means you're not talking to everyone you should be talking to.” - Congressman Andy Kim
Links:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andy-kim-511969  Andy Kim for New Jersey (Website): https://www.andykim.com US Congress - Andy Kim: https://clerk.house.gov/members/K000394 
Shout Outs:
The Pentagon: https://www.defense.gov The U.S. Department of State: https://www.state.gov The White House National Security Council: https://www.whitehouse.gov/nsc The U.S. Military: https://www.usa.gov/us-military Behind the viral photo of Rep. Andy Kim: https://www.nbcnews.com/news/asian-america/behind-viral-photo-rep-andy-kim-cleaning-midnight-after-riots-n1253519 President Barack Obama on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barackobama Susan Rice on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amb-susan-rice General David H. Petraeus on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/davidpetraeus General John R. Allen: https://www.defense.gov/About/Biographies/Biography/Article/602794 

Candice C. Jones is the President and CEO of Public Welfare Foundation. The Foundation seeks to catalyze a transformative approach to justice in the United States that is community-led, restorative, and racially just by supporting the creation and implementation of an alternative vision of justice rooted in communities.

This week's episode delves into the profound impact of Candice’s experiences, including her involvement in tackling gun violence in Chicago, advocating for juvenile justice reforms, and supporting educational programs for incarcerated youth. Her experiences have profoundly shaped her approach to philanthropy and social justice. Candice underscores the importance of collaborating with people rather than titles and stresses the indispensable role of sustained, long-term efforts in effecting meaningful change.

You will gain insights into the vital role of strategic influence, both inside and outside organizations, in driving systemic change and the significance of maintaining balance, resilience, and focus over the long arc of justice work.

Takeaways:
Building genuine relationships goes beyond official roles. Leaders must value and engage with people across all levels of an organization, acknowledging their contributions, regardless of their title.Accept that entering any new role or undertaking comes with a learning period. Effective leaders recognize that they won't have all of the answers on day one and commit to a journey of continuous learning and adaptation.Assemble a trusted circle of advisors or mentors who can provide sage advice and diverse perspectives. This network of support is invaluable for troubleshooting, strategizing, and maintaining perspective.Understand that meaningful change does not happen overnight. Engaging in long-term campaigns that gradually win hearts and minds requires consistent effort, patience, and resilience.Success involves initiating action and the will to repeatedly revisit, remind, and reinforce your vision and goals, especially in the face of setbacks or resistance.Acknowledge that the path towards meaningful progress is long, with the ultimate reward of achieving justice. Stay focused on the broader horizon, even when immediate gains seem elusive.Welcome the experiences you encounter as opportunities for personal and professional growth. A leader's openness to learn from every situation translates into wisdom that enriches their ability to lead effectively.
Quote of the Show:
“You have to engage with people, educate them, keep moving them along… progress is not a clean line.” - Candice C. Jones
Links:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/candice-jones-a5b24b254 Public Welfare Foundation (Website): https://www.publicwelfare.org 
Shout Outs:
Chicago CRED: https://www.chicagocred.org Illinois Department of Juvenile Justice: https://idjj.illinois.gov White House Fellows: https://www.whitehouse.gov/get-involved/fellows Bryan Stevenson: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bryanastevenson Black Women Leading by Candice Jones: https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/black-women-leading-candice-jones