Do Good To Lead Well with Craig Dowden Craig Dowden

Is the traditional office becoming a thing of the past? In this episode, we sit down with Nick Bloom, Stanford professor and LinkedIn’s Top Voice on Remote Work, to uncover the transformative shifts in our work models that accelerated throughout the pandemic. With two decades of research behind him, Nick provides an in-depth look at how technology has revolutionized remote and hybrid work environments. We explore the rising popularity of hybrid work models, the slowdown of the return-to-office movement, and practical advice for executives and managers navigating this new terrain.

Discover how different organizations are uniquely adapting to remote work, from consulting firms to call centers. Nick shares valuable insights on how to balance flexibility with performance and the profound benefits of remote work. We dive into the importance of tailored approaches based on job nature and organizational needs, offering crucial recommendations for both startups and larger companies who are embracing or considering hybrid models. Furthermore, we discuss the challenges of managing hybrid and fully remote teams, and the impact of these models on diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives.

We close out the episode discussing mental health, employee retention, and the economic reshaping due to the "donut effect.” Join us for an enlightening conversation and stay ahead of the curve in the evolving landscape of the future world.



What You’ll Learn:

- The balance between flexibility and performance

- How to tailor hybrid work for various roles and organizations 

- The benefits of remote work that equate to an 8% pay raise

- Strategies for integrating successful remote work practices into your organization

- The crucial role of choice and flexibility for mental health 

- Solving the mystery of remote onboarding

- The ongoing shifts in workforce dynamics and hiring practices

 

Podcast Timestamps:

(00:03) - Leading Remote and Hybrid Teams

(10:29) - The Future of Hybrid Work Arrangements

(17:04) - Remote Work Benefits and Considerations

(20:28) - Strategies for Remote Work Integration

(33:06) - Remote Work – Impacts on DEI and Productivity

(43:40) - Mental Health and Remote Onboarding

(52:00) – The Future of (Remote) Work



More of Nick:

Nick Bloom is a professor in the Department of Economics and, by courtesy, at the Stanford Graduate School of Business. He co-directs the Productivity, Innovation and Entrepreneurship program at the National Bureau of Economic Research (NBER) and is a fellow at both the Centre for Economic Performance and the Stanford Institute for Economic Policy Research. Bloom's research focuses on management practices, working with McKinsey & Company and Accenture to gather extensive data and conduct management experiments, and he has extensively studied the impacts of large uncertainty shocks on the U.S. economy. He lives on the Stanford campus with his wife and three children, maintaining a multi-lingual household influenced by his London roots and his Scottish wife.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-bloom-86b79510b/



Key Topics Discussed:

Remote Work, Hybrid Work, Nick Bloom, Future of Work, Technology Advancements, Managing Work,  Job Satisfaction, Employee Retention, Inclusion, Mental Health, Onboarding, Hiring Practices, Work Dynamics, Productivity, Flexibility, Connectivity



More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/


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Have you ever started down a conversational pathway and wish you could turn around and exit stage right? Despite our good intentions, we can find ourselves knee-deep in a complex and challenging situation. Our ‘Speak-First, Think-Later’ culture amplifies the potential risk.

Join me in this month’s solo episode as I unveil a simple yet powerful three-step process, borrowed from an unlikely source—the comedian Craig Ferguson. We probe the depths of when to speak, what to share, and who should deliver the message, turning your communication into a deliberate and effective tool. Discover how asking ourselves these critical questions before speaking can steer us away from potential conversational pitfalls and guide us toward more meaningful interactions.



What You’ll Learn:


A 3-step reflection process to guide if and how you contribute to crucial conversations


The importance of asking why you are sharing this message


The role of timing in effective communication


Be strategic about the messenger





Podcast Timestamps:


(00:00) Introduction


(01:55) The Importance of Effective Communication


(02:22) Introducing Craig Ferguson's Three-Step Process


(03:25) Question 1: Does This Need to Be Said?


(05:52) Question 2: Does This Need to Be Said by Me?


(09:02) Question 3: Does This Need to Be Said by Me Now?


(10:30) Applying the Three-Step Process in Real Life


(14:16) Conclusion





Key Topics Discussed:

Meaningful Connection, Communication, Open-ended Questions, Self-reflection, Managing Relationships, Navigating Conflict, Emotional Intelligence, Craig Ferguson, Timing, Effective Communication, Actionable Tips, Personal Development



More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/


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Welcome back to the Do Good to Lead Well podcast, where the art and science of communication takes center stage. Join us as we engage with Stanford professor and communication maestro, Matt Abrahams, discussing the secrets unveiled in his best-selling book "Think Faster, Talk Smarter." From the power of open-ended questions to the finesse required for a graceful exit from a conversation, we cover it all and ensure that you walk away with skills that transcend the ordinary, transforming every interaction into a moment of engaging connection. Through a combination of science, neuroscience and applied practice, Matt brings a wealth of knowledge that will sharpen your ability to communicate.

This episode isn't just about mastering the high-stakes world of spontaneous dialogue; it's about the nuances of everyday interactions. Listen in as we explore the underestimated skill of small talk, revealing how to navigate social exchanges with confidence and purpose. Discover the importance of asking open-ended questions, learn the art of exiting conversations without awkwardness, and appreciate the power of listening—skills that transform small talk from a dreaded chore into an opportunity for meaningful connections. Whether you're remote or face-to-face, we've got tips to help you communicate more effectively and engage listeners with greater equity and impact.

Finally, we dive into the soft skills that often go unnoticed but can significantly influence our interactions. Unpack the strengths of introversion and how humor and cultural understanding play pivotal roles in effective communication. We also examine the evolving landscape of digital communication, including the strategic use of emojis and the importance of feedback in building a culture of open dialogue. 

This episode promises to equip you with the tools necessary for becoming a more empathetic and impactful communicator in your personal and professional lives. Tune in, subscribe, and join us on this transformative journey to elevate your communication prowess.



What You’ll Learn:


How to Conquer the Fear of Impromptu Speaking


The Strategic Art of Small Talk


Hybrid Communication: Best Practices


The Strengths of Introverts for Effective Communication


Navigating Cultural Nuances


Using Humor to Create Connection


Why Empathy is the Key Ingredient to Navigate Conflict


The Perils and Promise of Emojis


Effective Feedback Techniques


Improving Our Communication Is A Lifelong Journey 





Podcast Timestamps:

(00:00) – The Power and Promise of Effective Communication

(10:33) - Mastering Small Talk and Impromptu Communication

(17:40) – Equity and Engagement in Communication

(23:24) - Leveraging Lessons from Introversion, Humor, and Cultural Awareness to Elevate Your Impact

(31:55) – Communication Secrets for Navigating Conflict

(45:21) - Effective Use of Emojis and Feedback to Enhance Connection



Key Topics Discussed:

Communication Skills, Small Talk, Hybrid Communication, Humor, Conflict Management, Emojis, Feedback, Virtual Communication, Managing Anxiety, Public Speaking, Active Listening, Empathy, Radical Candor, Improvisation



More of Matt Abrahams:

Matt Abrahams is a renowned expert in communication, celebrated for his dynamic roles as a Stanford University lecturer, author, and podcast host. He teaches strategic communication at Stanford's Graduate School of Business, where he received the prestigious Alumni Teaching Award. As a sought-after keynote speaker and communication consultant, Matt has coached presenters for high-stakes events such as IPO roadshows, TED Talks, and World Economic Forum presentations. He hosts the award-winning podcast "Think Fast, Talk Smart" and has authored books like "Think Faster, Talk Smarter" and "Speaking Up without Freaking Out," which offer practical strategies for confident and effective communication.

Website: https://mattabrahams.com/



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Website

Ever wrestled with the relentless voice in your head that magnifies every slip-up and whispers doubts at the worst possible moments? I had the privilege of sitting down with Ethan Kross, an acclaimed authority on controlling the conscious mind and the inner mechanisms that govern our self-talk. Together, we dissect the phenomenon of ‘chatter’, those pesky negative thought loops that can ambush our emotional equilibrium. With a blend of personal insights and evidence-based strategies, this episode will you with the arsenal you need to tame these internal foes and lead a more poised, positive life

We start by dissecting some common misunderstandings, shedding light on the importance of balancing emotional expression with solution-focused problem-solving when engaging with our own or other’s personal or professional challenges. Also, learn how to navigate the intricate dance of giving and receiving support with the finesse that builds true connections and effective leadership. 

Next, we delve into the advent of the digital age, which has woven social media so intimately into our lives that it’s become a double-edged sword; capable of slicing through our confidence or defending our sense of community. Later in our conversation, we navigate the intricacies of how these platforms can amplify our internal chatter or, conversely, serve as lifelines of support and understanding. 

Finally, we explore the transformative role of your environment on your mental chatter as we discuss how external factors can become critical allies in your quest for tranquility. From the calming influence of nature to the orderliness of your living and working space, discover how your surroundings can contribute to a more harmonious inner life. Join us for this immersive episode and leave feeling empowered to optimize the emotional tools at your disposal for a life with less chatter and more clarity.



What You’ll learn

- The link between emotional and social pain

- The pros and cons of social media in managing our inner monologue

- The transformative role of rituals and structured behavior in managing our chatter

- How to give and receive emotional support.

- The answers lie within – why we hold the key to our chatter



Podcast Timestamps

(00:00) – An Introduction to Chatter

(14:15) - Understanding the Impact of Social Media

(25:45) – The Power of Rituals

(30:01) – How to Effectively Give and Receive Support

(33:07) – Our Environment Shapes Our Chatter

(44:51) –On the Importance of Negative Emotions and the Perils of Toxic Positivity



Key Topics Discussed:

Self-Leadership, Self-Awareness, Negative Thought Spirals, Emotional Well-Being, Rituals, Emotional Expression, Inner Critic, Self-Talk, Mental Mastery, Emotional Intelligence, Emotional Mastery, Resilience, Personal Growth



More of Ethan:

Ethan Kross is a renowned expert on controlling the conscious mind, an award-winning professor, and a bestselling author at the University of Michigan’s top-ranked Psychology Department and Ross School of Business. He investigates how self-talk impacts health, performance, decisions, and relationships. Born and raised in Brooklyn, he graduated magna cum laude from the University of Pennsylvania and earned his PhD in Psychology from Columbia University, followed by a postdoctoral fellowship in social-affective neuroscience. Kross's research is widely published and has garnered significant media attention. He is the author of the national bestseller "Chatter: The Voice in Our Head, Why it Matters and How to Harness It," and resides in Ann Arbor with his family.



LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ekross/ 



More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/


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Ever wonder what it takes to create a company culture that not only endures but thrives? Unlock the secrets as Dan Turner, the visionary CEO of Xperigo, pulls back the curtain on fostering a workplace where Mondays are the new Fridays. Throughout our enlightening conversation, Dan shares the ins and outs of nurturing core values that resonate at every level of the organization. He takes us on a tour from the early days of shaping Xperigo’s cultural identity to the present, where recognition systems and performance reviews are steeped in core values and principles. It’s a masterclass in making every employee an indispensable part of the company’s cultural journey.



The episode is filled with strategies for authentically engaging with your team, from heartfelt meet and greets with new hires to championing a culture of support and recognition that turns workplace challenges into opportunities. 



As we cast our gaze to the horizon, Dan reflects on the monumental shift in leadership and corporate ethos over the recent decade. The conversation turns to how the pandemic has catalyzed a departure from archaic command-and-control models towards embracing a more empathetic and trust-centric leadership style. Dan’s experiences and forward-thinking exemplify how a culture of care and authenticity doesn’t just elevate a business—it elevates everyone who comes into contact with it; both inside and outside of the organization. Join us and discover how these cultural shifts can lead to a future where business success and personal fulfillment are not mutually exclusive but interwoven threads of the same fabric.



What You’ll Learn

- The Essence of a Purpose-Driven Culture

- Practical Steps to Embedding Purpose

- Creating Recognition Systems that Reinforce Core Values

- Consistent Communication: The Key to Community Building

- Culture Drives Peak Performance

- How to Lead with Authenticity and Vulnerability

- Sustaining Culture Wherever You Are

- Embracing Change and Continuous Learning



Podcast Timestamps

(00:00) The Secrets of an Award-Winning Culture – Practical Insights to Drive Exceptional Engagement

(11:27) Never Stop Learning – The Role of Continuous Improvement to Sustain Excellence.

(20:37) The Power of Employee Feedback

(25:13) Vulnerability and Authenticity – A Dynamic Duo for Leadership Success

(27:51) Nice Guys Don’t Finish Last in Business – They Win the Race

(34:47) How Far Can We Take This? Keep Pushing to Challenge Yourself and Your Team



More of Dan:

Dan Turner is the esteemed President and CEO of Xperigo, a premier provider of customer experience management services in the automotive industry. With over three decades of experience, Dan has honed his skills in strategic planning, business development, and fostering invaluable partnerships. Under his visionary leadership, Xperigo has flourished, earning accolades such as Shell Mobility Partner of the Year and Canada's Most Admired Corporate Culture award, a remarkable achievement reflective of Dan's commitment to excellence. Beyond his professional prowess, Dan is revered for his dedication to cultivating a workplace culture marked by collaboration, empowerment, and continuous improvement, making Xperigo a standout choice for top talent and industry recognition.



LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/turnerdan/?originalSubdomain=ca



Key Topics Discussed

Purpose-Driven Culture, Resilience, Employee Recognition, Award-Winning Corporate Culture, Leadership, Empathy, Trust, Fostering Employee Voice, The Power of Vulnerability, Caring Culture



More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/


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This is the inspiring story of Dan Turner, CEO of Xperigo, a company that has been recognized multiple times as being one of Canada’s Most Admired Corporate Cultures. In the first part of this special two- part series, we unpack Dan’s improbable journey from tow truck driver to CEO. It shines a light on the grit, gumption, and the audacious goals that can lead any determined individual from the roadside to the corner office. Dan opens up about the role models that sparked his ambition and the confidence that grew from each small win, providing a blueprint for anyone ready to take the wheel of their career and steer it towards success.

Dan and I dig into the parallels between the leadership qualities forged in the competitive fires of high school sports and how those skills translate seamlessly into guiding teams in a business setting. This episode is a playbook for dreaming big, crafting a winning strategy, and maintaining momentum in the darkest times. Together, we dissect the attributes that propel an individual from the starting line to the finish line, emphasizing the resilience that turns setbacks into setups for greater achievements.

We wrap up our conversation with a candid look at the risks that lead to the greatest rewards and immerse ourselves in how to navigate the choppy waters of leadership during crisis. Our exchange sheds light on the value of authenticity, adaptability and the strength found in teamwork. Dan’s journey is not just a testament to his own success, but a beacon for those yearning to unleash their potential and make the climb from the ground floor to the C-suite.



What You’ll learn:

- The power of role models

- Why setting small goals is key to achieving big wins

- The mindset needed to overcome self-doubt and set audacious goals

- The role confidence plays in taking risks

- How to celebrate small victories and build unshakable confidence

- The parallels between sports leadership and building a peak performance company

- The importance of adaptability and authenticity in navigating a company through challenging

times



Podcast Timestamps:

(00:00) - From Tow Truck Driver to CEO

(08:39) - Celebrating Wins and Building Confidence

(15:18) - Overcoming Setbacks and Finding Motivation

(20:44) - The Power of Leadership and Teamwork

(30:29) - Setting and Achieving Big, Hairy, Audacious Goals (BHAGs)

(39:58) - Taking Big Chances for Big Success

(48:24) – Navigating Crisis Leadership

(52:30) - Embracing Authentic Leadership



More of Dan:

Dan Turner is the esteemed President and CEO of Xperigo, a premier provider of customer experience management services in the automotive industry. With over three decades of experience, Dan has honed his skills in strategic planning, business development, and fostering invaluable partnerships. Under his visionary leadership, Xperigo has flourished, earning accolades such as Shell Mobility Partner of the Year and Canada's Most Admired Corporate Culture award, a remarkable achievement reflective of Dan's commitment to excellence. Beyond his professional prowess, Dan is revered for his dedication to cultivating a workplace culture marked by collaboration, empowerment, and continuous improvement, making Xperigo a standout choice for top talent and industry recognition.



LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/turnerdan/?originalSubdomain=ca



Key Topics Discussed:

CEO Mindset, Success, Self-Belief, Grit, Teamwork, Big Goals, Self-Motivation, Navigating Setbacks, Authentic Leadership, Adaptability, Empowerment, Collaboration, Confidence, Resilience, Growth, Overcome Obstacles



More of Do Good to Lead Well:

Website: https://craigdowden.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/craigdowden/


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