Today's Balanced Leader with Caroline Baird

Caroline Baird
Today's Balanced Leader with Caroline Baird

Are you ready to become the kind of leader who’s not just in control, but aligned with your purpose—no excuses? Welcome to Today's Balanced Leader, the podcast that cuts through the fluff and gives you the real strategies you need to lead, transform, and thrive. I’m your host, guide and coach, Caroline Baird, and I’m here to show you how to ditch the excuses and embrace bold, unapologetic change. We’re not just talking about balance—we’re living it. We’re challenging outdated norms, tackling tough conversations, and arming you with the tools to break free from limits you’ve placed on yourself. This isn't about quick fixes or feel-good sound bites. It's about raw, real growth that sticks. Every month, I bring in experts and thought leaders to help you discover what it truly means to lead with confidence, compassion, and continuous growth. But this isn’t just about leadership—it's about your entire life. We’ll dive into how you can stay healthy in mind, body, and spirit, even when life is chaotic. From burnout to overwhelm, we’re here to give you straight-up solutions to help you lead with resilience, balance, and power. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, this podcast will push you to rethink what’s possible. So, if you're ready to stop playing small and start leading with clarity and purpose, you’re in the right place. Let’s get to work. The life you deserve is waiting. Be sure to follow, and ring that bell to keep up to date on new episodes every other week! And if you love an episode, leave a rating and review, as I value your input. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caroline_baird_coaching/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100092229123713 Website: https://www.carolinebaird.com/ LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/carolinebaird1 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CarolineBairdCoaching

  1. Ep 36 How to Build a High-Trust Workplace & Transform Your Culture with Tim McCleary

    4 DAYS AGO

    Ep 36 How to Build a High-Trust Workplace & Transform Your Culture with Tim McCleary

    Are you facing disengaged employees, struggling with organizational change, or trying to create a high-performance culture in your workplace? In this episode of Today's Balanced Leader, I sit down with Tim McCleary, an expert in culture activation and founder of The Involvement Practice. With 20+ years at NBC, Warner Bros., and GE, Tim shares actionable strategies for unlocking employee potential, increasing trust, and adapting to AI-driven leadership changes. 🔹 What You’ll Learn in This Episode: ✔️ The hidden drivers of disengagement & how to fix them ✔️ The neuroscience behind trust & high-performance leadership ✔️ How to navigate layoffs & major organizational changes ✔️ Strategies for measuring and improving employee engagement ✔️ The impact of AI & remote work on workplace culture With references to Elisabeth Kübler-Ross’s stages of grief and insights from Dr. Paul Zak, this episode is packed with actionable advice and thought-provoking conversations. Don't miss out on mastering the next evolution of involvement culture and building a high-trust workplace environment. 02:22 Hidden Drivers of Disengagement 03:52 The Importance of Third-Party Insights 09:00 Recognizing Silent Warning Signs 14:20 Generational Differences in the Workplace 19:12 Navigating Large-Scale Layoffs 20:41 The Human Side of Organizational Change 26:32 The Role of Neuroscience in Building Trust 41:17 Introduction to Leadership Challenges 44:40 Building Strong Team Cultures 50:55 Transparency and Trust in Leadership 57:25 Navigating Remote Work and AI in the Workplace 01:06:15 Measuring Trust and Productivity 01:09:44 Immediate Actions for Leaders 💡 About Tim McCleary: Tim McCleary is a leading expert in culture change activation and the founder of The Involvement Practice, a firm dedicated to transforming organizations through immersive employee engagement strategies. With a career spanning two decades at NBC, Warner Bros., and GE, Tim pioneered Involvement Culture™, a model designed to drive trust, engagement, and measurable business success. 📩 Want to build a high-trust, high-performance culture in your organization? 👉 Connect with Tim McCleary at https://www.theinvolvementpractice.com Instagram: @involvement_practice LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/company/the-involvement-practice-llc http://linkedin.com/in/timmccleary Want more from Caroline? Website: https//:www.carolinebaird.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/people/Caroline-Baird-Coaching/100092229123713/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolinebaird1/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caroline_baird_coaching/ Offers: Time to Reset Virtual Retreats (Feb, Mar, Apr) https://carolinebaird.com/virtual-retreat Free Leadership Level-Up Call https://calendly.com/carolinebaird/1-hour-free-strategic-leadership-level-up-call Strategic Leadership Accelerator Program https://carolinebaird.com/strategic-leadership-accelerator Got any burning questions you want answered, or a topic to cover? Email me at caroline@carolinebaird.com.

    1h 17m
  2. Ep 35 BONUS: Navigating Uncertainty: Leadership with an Empowered Edge with Caroline Baird

    FEB 6

    Ep 35 BONUS: Navigating Uncertainty: Leadership with an Empowered Edge with Caroline Baird

    Feeling the weight of uncertainty? Economic shifts, trade tensions, rising costs, and workforce concerns are hitting leaders across industries. If you’re responsible for a business, a team, or simply trying to keep things afloat, this episode is for you. You don’t have to let uncertainty paralyze you—you can lead through it with confidence, clarity, and resilience. In this episode of Today’s Balanced Leader, I’ll walk you through: 🔹 [0:46] Why uncertainty isn’t just about external chaos—it’s about how you lead through it with heart-centered leadership. 🔹 [7:31] How to focus on what you can control—scenario planning, financial resilience, and operational agility. 🔹 [13:34] Leading with stability and confidence—creating psychological safety and keeping your team engaged. 🔹 [16:51] Lessons from history’s greatest leaders: Franklin D. Roosevelt and his fireside chats that reassured a nation during the Great Depression and WWII.Angela Merkel’s calm, data-driven leadership through the European financial crisis.Howard Schultz’s ability to rebuild Starbucks’ mission and employee trust after the 2008 crash. 🔹 [19:05] Your next steps—how to join me for a free Leadership Level-Up Call and my upcoming virtual retreat to help you reclaim your energy and focus. Uncertainty isn’t going away—but how you show up as a leader will define your success. You don’t have to do it alone. If today’s episode resonated with you, share it with another leader who needs it. And if you’re ready to step into your next level of leadership, book a call with me today at https://calendly.com/carolinebaird/1-hour-free-strategic-leadership-level-up-call. Let’s navigate this together—because resilient leaders don’t just react, they rise. 00:33 Navigating Leadership Through Uncertainty 03:33 Understanding and Managing Uncertainty 07:31 Controlling What You Can Control 13:34 Leading People with Stability and Confidence 16:51 Historical Leadership Examples in Times of Crisis 19:05 Final Thoughts and Call to Action Want more from Caroline? Time to Reset Virtual Retreats (Feb, Mar & Apr): Free Leadership Level-Up call   Strategic Leadership Accelerator Program Got any burning questions you want answered, or a topic to cover?  Email me at caroline@carolinebaird.com.   Website LinkedIn Facebook Instagram

    21 min
  3. Ep 34 Master Leadership Communication & Emotional Regulation with Jayna Swan

    FEB 4

    Ep 34 Master Leadership Communication & Emotional Regulation with Jayna Swan

    Imagine having the confidence to communicate with clarity, the emotional regulation to navigate challenges with ease, and the alignment to ensure every goal you set fuels both your success and fulfillment. What if the key to thriving as a leader wasn’t about doing more, but about being more intentional with your time, energy, and values? Join me in this episode, as I welcome Jayna Swan, a dynamic speaker and coach dedicated to empowering women in business. Together, we dive into key strategies for thriving as a leader and entrepreneur, including: Effective Communication TechniquesAligning Goals with Core ValuesThe Power of Emotional RegulationUsing Technology to Create BalanceCultivating Meaningful ConnectionsHarmonizing Professional Growth with Family LifeThe Healthy Emotional Regulation App (Free Resource) Jayna shares her groundbreaking approach to emotional regulation through movement, meditation, and mindfulness—helping leaders navigate challenges with clarity and confidence. We also explore the realities of balancing career growth with personal life, offering practical boundary-setting strategies and actionable tips to create harmony. Key Takeaways:✔ How to align your goals with your values for greater fulfillment ✔ The role of AI in streamlining tasks and reducing mental load ✔ Simple ways to stay present in conversations and relationships ✔ How to lead with clarity while maintaining balance Don’t miss this insightful conversation packed with real-world strategies to elevate your leadership and well-being! 02:02 Key Communication Techniques for Leaders 19:18 Leveraging AI for Business Efficiency 27:30 Emotional Regulation and Leadership Performance 35:35 Empathy and Curiosity in Leadership 39:40 The Importance of Follow-Up in Human Connection 41:20 Balancing Professional Growth and Family Life 43:52 Setting Boundaries for Work-Life Harmony 46:07 The Big Three: Prioritizing Daily Tasks 51:13 Introducing the Healthy Emotional Regulation App 52:08 The Five M's for Emotional Well-being Want to follow Jayna Swan: Website Instagram Healthy Emotional Regulation FREE - Healthy Emotional Regulation App - https://www.healthyemotionalregulation.com/app Want more from Caroline? Website LinkedIn Facebook Instagram Time to Reset Virtual Retreats (Feb, Mar & Apr): Free Leadership Level-Up call   a...

    1h 4m
  4. JAN 21

    Ep 33: Why Your Goals Fail and How To Achieve Success: Neuroscience-Backed Strategies

    Hey there, it's Caroline, your friend and guide to balanced leadership. In this episode, we're diving into why most of us struggle with goal-setting and how to reframe it for lasting success. If you've ever felt the frustration of New Year's resolutions slipping away, this episode is for you. We'll explore the psychology behind why traditional goal setting sets us up for burnout and how to create small, frequent wins that keep your motivation high. Learn to shift your focus from external outcomes to internal alignment and embody the success you desire. Whether it's tackling personal goals or aligning business KPIs with your values, we'll cover practical strategies to ensure you're making meaningful progress. Ready to recalibrate your approach to goals? Let's dive in and create the balanced life you deserve. 03:18 The Psychology Behind Goal Setting 08:57 Internal vs External Factors 13:50 The Progress Principle and Micro Wins 15:04 Identity-Based Goals 17:40 Live Goal Setting Exercise 21:18 Aligning Business Goals with Values 28:35 Recap and Final Thoughts Come Join me on Social! Website Facebook LinkedIn Instagram Free Resources I'm opening up 5 spots for a Strategic Leadership Level-Up Calls (my gift to you), Grab One Here. It's time to change how you lead!  Stressed and overwhelmed? Reset and Recharge at my Virtual Retreats happening February, March, and April. Get on the Waitlist to Secure Your Spot and learn about my bundle offer! Check out Harvard's article on Progress Principle. And remember to Share, Like and Comment so others hear about what I do.  Have a topic or challenge you'd like me to cover, just email me at caroline@carolinebaird.com.

    35 min
  5. Navigating Change: Managing Transitions, Listening to Your Team, and Preventing Turnover with Lisa Rigoli

    JAN 7

    Navigating Change: Managing Transitions, Listening to Your Team, and Preventing Turnover with Lisa Rigoli

    Feeling overwhelmed by the constant changes in your organization? Struggling to keep your team motivated and reduce turnover?  Hey, it’s Caroline, your guide to mastering balance in leadership! This episode is a must-listen for anyone navigating change and turnover within their organization. My guest, Lisa Rigoli, founder of Element of Change, dives deep into practical strategies for leading with resilience, fostering trust, and maintaining team morale during transitions. We discuss why empathy and clear communication are crucial during reorganizations, and Lisa shares her personal experience of handling unexpected job loss, offering invaluable advice for leaders. Whether you're facing a leadership change or a shift in business direction, you'll walk away with actionable insights to keep your team engaged and thriving. Tune in for tips on building resilient teams, creating a culture of belonging, and preparing for change before it hits. Mentioned in this episode are thought leaders Patrick Lentioni and Brené Brown, whose frameworks on trust and vulnerability are integral to Lisa’s approach.   04:32 Navigating Change and Resistance 06:31 Practical Examples of Managing Change 15:37 Building Resilience and Trust 21:05 Common Mistakes in Change Management 23:41 Understanding Hidden Conversations 23:55 The Importance of Senior Leadership Alignment 24:59 Addressing Turnover and Disengagement 26:57 Creating a Sense of Belonging During Vision Changes 30:43 Strategies for Identifying and Retaining Top Talent 34:31 Balancing Metrics and Team Morale 39:16 Rebuilding Trust During High Turnover   More about Lisa: WebsiteInstagramLinkedIn And check out Lisa's offers for us. What's happening at Caroline Baird Coaching? Book your free Strategic Leadership Level-Up Call - my GIFT TO YOU! Ready to Level-Up?  Check out The Strategic Leadership Accelerator Program Come and heal at our Soulful Healing membership program Join the Virtual and In-Person Retreat Waitlist now!   Got a hot topic or issue you want to hear me talk about on the podcast?  Drop me a line at caroline@carolinebaird.com!   Connect with me: InstagramFacebookLinkedIna href="mailto:caroline@carolinebaird.com" rel="noopener noreferrer"...

    49 min
  6. Unwrapping Your Leadership Gifts: Presence, Joy, and Strength to Finish the Year Strong

    12/10/2024

    Unwrapping Your Leadership Gifts: Presence, Joy, and Strength to Finish the Year Strong

    Are you stuck in the grind, feeling like no matter how much you do, it's never enough? The secret to stepping into the leadership role you deserve isn’t doing more—it’s leading differently! This episode uncovers the 3 gifts that will transform how you lead: Presence, Joy, and Your Unique Leadership Strength. It’s time to stop just surviving year-end and start leading with intention, impact, and purpose. In this solo episode, I dive into strategies to help you lead with confidence, stay resilient, and avoid burnout during the high-pressure end-of-year period. This isn't just about leadership—it's about thriving holistically in mind, body, and spirit. I reveal actionable tips such as the One Minute Reset, single-tasking, and the 80/20 listening rule. Through personal stories and practical examples, like the 'Reindeer Run' tradition, I underscore the importance of connection and presence in effective leadership. Ready to not just survive, but thrive? Let's dive in and create the balanced life you deserve. 00:33 The Overwhelming Season: Thriving, Not Just Surviving 01:46 Unwrapping Three Gifts for Meaningful Leadership 04:09 The Power of Presence in Leadership 08:26 Building Presence: Practical Tips 17:02 Rediscovering Joy in Leadership 23:01 Embracing Your Unique Leadership Gift 27:58 Conclusion: Leading with Intention and Heart   Join the Waitlist for Elevate Your Leadership Presence, and make 2025 your year to shine! Want more from Caroline? Website LinkedIn Facebook Instagram Youtube

    30 min
  7. Healing Through Trauma-Informed Fitness with Gabi Varga

    11/29/2024

    Healing Through Trauma-Informed Fitness with Gabi Varga

    Ever wondered how trauma affects your physical health and leadership? In this special episode, I welcome Gabi Varga, a trauma-informed personal trainer with over 20 years of experience, to uncover that connection. We’ll explore strategies to lead with confidence, stay resilient, and avoid burnout, emphasizing a holistic approach to mind, body, and spirit. Gabi reveals her unique journey and her methodologies incorporating trauma-informed fitness and somatics to help clients connect deeply with their bodies. We dive into the significant impact of stress and trauma on physical and mental health, and how customized wellness plans can foster resilience and stability. Join us as we discuss the importance of self-awareness, boundaries in leadership, and how individualized support can truly transform your well-being. Also, don't miss the announcement of my new program, Elevate Your Leadership Presence, aimed at helping professionals work smarter and harness their innate power.   03:59 Understanding Trauma and Its Impact 17:05 The Role of Somatics in Healing 27:25 Stress, Overwhelm, and Movement Patterns 36:33 Breaking Societal and Familial Beliefs 36:57 Living Within Your Own Values 37:32 Physical Ability and Self-Confidence 38:39 Common Misconceptions About Movement and Exercise 39:06 The Importance of Trauma-Informed Fitness 46:35 Building Resilience in Movement and Leadership 54:03 Success Stories and Client Transformations 57:59 Lessons Learned and Personal Growth   Want to connect with Gabi? Instagram Facebook Website YouTube LinkedIn a href= "https://www.tiktok.com/@thetraumainformedpt?_t=8ijxnXx7QMo&_r=1" target="_blank"...

    1h 8m

About

Are you ready to become the kind of leader who’s not just in control, but aligned with your purpose—no excuses? Welcome to Today's Balanced Leader, the podcast that cuts through the fluff and gives you the real strategies you need to lead, transform, and thrive. I’m your host, guide and coach, Caroline Baird, and I’m here to show you how to ditch the excuses and embrace bold, unapologetic change. We’re not just talking about balance—we’re living it. We’re challenging outdated norms, tackling tough conversations, and arming you with the tools to break free from limits you’ve placed on yourself. This isn't about quick fixes or feel-good sound bites. It's about raw, real growth that sticks. Every month, I bring in experts and thought leaders to help you discover what it truly means to lead with confidence, compassion, and continuous growth. But this isn’t just about leadership—it's about your entire life. We’ll dive into how you can stay healthy in mind, body, and spirit, even when life is chaotic. From burnout to overwhelm, we’re here to give you straight-up solutions to help you lead with resilience, balance, and power. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just starting out, this podcast will push you to rethink what’s possible. So, if you're ready to stop playing small and start leading with clarity and purpose, you’re in the right place. Let’s get to work. The life you deserve is waiting. Be sure to follow, and ring that bell to keep up to date on new episodes every other week! And if you love an episode, leave a rating and review, as I value your input. Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/caroline_baird_coaching/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100092229123713 Website: https://www.carolinebaird.com/ LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/carolinebaird1 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@CarolineBairdCoaching

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