Leadership for the Common Good

Common Good Coaching
  • 5.0 (8)
  • Self-Improvement
  • Updated Semiweekly

Welcome to Leadership for the Common Good, the podcast where we dive into the stories and strategies behind leadership that truly makes a difference. I’m your host, Jennifer McDowell, founder and Principal Coach at Common Good Coaching. Whether you’re leading a team or a project, or simply seeking to lead your life with more intention and impact, this podcast is for you. I believe leadership should feel human — it should inspire, create hope, and deliver real results. Together, we’ll explore what it means to lead in a way that serves the common good, especially in challenging times.

  1. Apr 26

    Empowering Leadership in School Communities

    The insights shared by Jennifer McDowell and David Osta highlight the transformative power of community organizing and effective leadership in education. As they explore the gradual release of responsibility and the importance of building relationships within school communities, it becomes evident that empowering others to lead is essential for fostering a thriving educational environment. Key takeaways include the value of betting on oneself, the significance of gradual responsibility release, and the enduring legacy of community organizing. Tags: community schools, education, leadership development, community organizing, gradual release of responsibility, Jane Addams, relational organizing, coaching, empowerment.

    1 hr

  2. 10/23/2025

    Collective Care is the Common Good with Danna Thomas

    In this conversation, Jennifer McDowell and Danna Thomas discuss the evolution of their friendship and the importance of supporting educators' mental health through the Happy Teacher Revolution. They explore themes of gratitude, the impact of small gestures, the need for safe spaces, and the significance of collective care in education. The discussion highlights the challenges teachers face, the importance of self-care, and the role of parents in fostering a supportive environment for children. They emphasize the need to shift focus from problems to solutions and the importance of data-driven insights in understanding teacher well-being. 🎙️ Tune in to the episode and join a community of leaders committed to making a difference for the common good. 🌐 Learn more about Jennifer’s coaching work at ⁠⁠Common Good Coaching⁠⁠. Follow Jennifer McDowell on LinkedIn: ⁠⁠Jennifer McDowell⁠⁠ #LeadershipForTheCommonGood #LeadershipPodcast #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #CoachingForLeaders

    46 min

  3. 10/16/2025

    The Power of Mattering with Zach Mercurio

    In this conversation, Jennifer McDowell and Zach Mercurio explore the concept of mattering, emphasizing its importance in personal and professional contexts. Zach shares his journey and research on how feeling valued impacts individuals' ability to contribute meaningfully to society. They discuss practical strategies for fostering connections, the role of curiosity, and the significance of intentional interactions in combating feelings of insignificance. The conversation highlights the cyclical nature of mattering, where giving and receiving value enhances relationships and contribute to the common good. 🎙️ Tune in to the episode and join a community of leaders committed to making a difference for the common good. 🌐 Learn more about Jennifer’s coaching work at ⁠⁠Common Good Coaching⁠⁠. Follow Jennifer McDowell on LinkedIn: ⁠⁠Jennifer McDowell⁠⁠ #LeadershipForTheCommonGood #LeadershipPodcast #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #CoachingForLeaders

    52 min

  4. 10/09/2025

    Healing, Leadership, and Community in Baltimore with Arica Gonzalez

    In this inspiring episode of Leadership For The Common Good, host Jennifer sits down with Arica Gonzalez, Executive Director of Urban Oasis—a Baltimore-based organization dedicated to creating spaces of healing, belonging, and empowerment for youth and families. Arica shares her journey as a community leader and advocate, discussing how Urban Oasis integrates mindfulness, social-emotional learning, and community partnerships to help people thrive in urban environments. Together, Jennifer and Arica explore what it means to lead with authenticity, build sustainable support networks, and nurture collective well-being in the face of systemic challenges. Whether you’re a community builder, educator, or nonprofit professional, this episode offers rich insights into the power of healing-centered leadership and the importance of creating spaces where everyone can be seen and supported. Learn more about Arica’s work at theurbanoasis.org and explore Jennifer’s coaching and leadership resources at commongoodcoaching.com. 🎙️ Tune in to the episode and join a community of leaders committed to making a difference for the common good. 🌐 Learn more about Jennifer’s coaching work at ⁠⁠Common Good Coaching⁠⁠. Follow Jennifer McDowell on LinkedIn: ⁠⁠Jennifer McDowell⁠⁠ #LeadershipForTheCommonGood #LeadershipPodcast #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #CoachingForLeaders

    54 min

  5. 09/16/2025

    Embracing Personal Growth in Leadership with Gwendolyn Unoko

    In this heartfelt conversation, Gwendolyn opens up about her remarkable journey through a tapestry of leadership roles, vividly illustrating the transformative power of personal growth and the deep, lasting impact of community. She delves into the essential traits that characterize effective leadership, shining a light on the importance of encouragement like a beacon of hope, and the unwavering need for compassion and honesty in our connections. Gwendolyn reflects on the indelible influence of her family and the nurturing embrace of her community, painting a picture of the uncomplicated joys of childhood experiences. She emphasizes the profound responsibility that leaders bear to create a brighter, more understanding world founded on respect and empathy. 🎙️ Tune in to the episode and join a community of leaders committed to making a difference for the common good. 🌐 Learn more about Jennifer’s coaching work at ⁠⁠Common Good Coaching⁠⁠. Follow Jennifer McDowell on LinkedIn: ⁠⁠Jennifer McDowell⁠⁠ #LeadershipForTheCommonGood #LeadershipPodcast #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #CoachingForLeaders

    48 min

  6. 08/21/2025

    Self-Discovery in Leadership with Marissa Badgley

    In this conversation, Marissa Badgley and Jennifer McDowell explore the importance of creating transformational spaces for individuals to express their authentic selves. They discuss the impact of childhood experiences on leadership styles, the challenges of professional burnout, and the need for compassionate work environments. The dialogue emphasizes the collective responsibility to address systemic issues in the nonprofit sector and the importance of emotional acknowledgment in fostering well-being. They also highlight the significance of self-compassion, the use of metaphors in leadership, and the role of community support in navigating challenges. Learn more about Marissa https://www.truereloveution.com/about 🎙️ Tune in to the episode and join a community of leaders committed to making a difference for the common good. 🌐 Learn more about Jennifer’s coaching work at ⁠⁠Common Good Coaching⁠⁠. Follow Jennifer McDowell on LinkedIn: ⁠⁠Jennifer McDowell⁠⁠ #LeadershipForTheCommonGood #LeadershipPodcast #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #CoachingForLeaders

    55 min

  7. 08/06/2025

    Empowering Leadership: A Journey of Growth with Lauren Stevens

    In this conversation, Jennifer McDowell and Lauren discuss the intricacies of leadership, personal development, and the importance of creating a supportive environment for team members. Lauren shares her journey from feeling overwhelmed in her leadership role to embracing a more reflective and curious approach. They explore the significance of one-on-one meetings, the role of coaching, and how to empower team members while fostering a culture of curiosity and growth. The discussion culminates in a reflection on the common good and the impact of individual actions on the broader community. This podcast isn’t just for CEOs or executives — it’s for anyone who believes leadership is about service, community, and courage. If you’re ready to lead in a way that lifts others and leaves a lasting impact, this space is for you. 🎙️ Tune in to the episode and join a community of leaders committed to making a difference for the common good. 🌐 Learn more about Jennifer’s coaching work at ⁠Common Good Coaching⁠. Follow Jennifer McDowell on LinkedIn: ⁠Jennifer McDowell⁠ #LeadershipForTheCommonGood #LeadershipPodcast #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #CoachingForLeaders

    51 min

  8. 07/16/2025

    The Power of Failure in Growth with Wesley Jamison

    In this conversation, Jennifer McDowell and Wesley Jamison explore the intersection of leadership, youth development, and health and wellness. Wesley shares his journey from being a young fitness enthusiast to leading MissionFit, a nonprofit organization focused on empowering youth through health and wellness programs. They discuss the importance of creating safe spaces for young people, the role of failure in the learning process, and the significance of active listening in leadership. Wesley emphasizes the importance of morning routines and self-care for effective leadership, as well as the need to build identity and brand in youth development. The conversation also touches on the balance between achieving results and fostering leadership development, crafting impactful stories for fundraising, and the essence of the common good in allowing individuals to express their authentic selves.

    1 hr
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
8 Ratings

About

Welcome to Leadership for the Common Good, the podcast where we dive into the stories and strategies behind leadership that truly makes a difference. I’m your host, Jennifer McDowell, founder and Principal Coach at Common Good Coaching. Whether you’re leading a team or a project, or simply seeking to lead your life with more intention and impact, this podcast is for you. I believe leadership should feel human — it should inspire, create hope, and deliver real results. Together, we’ll explore what it means to lead in a way that serves the common good, especially in challenging times.

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