Do Good To Lead Well with Craig Dowden

Craig Dowden
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If you're passionate about mastering self-leadership, you're in the right place. I've dedicated my career to understanding the science and practice of positive leadership. I Integrate evidence-based principles from the fields of positive psychology with those in leadership and organizational excellence that will help you develop real-life solutions to solve your greatest challenges. Each week I'll bring world-class content with industry experts to help you use positive leadership to build a peak performance culture.

  1. From Ideas to Action: Choosing Creativity with Zorana Ivcevic Pringle

    4H AGO

    From Ideas to Action: Choosing Creativity with Zorana Ivcevic Pringle

    Join us for an enlightening conversation this week with Zorana Ivcevic Pringle, a senior research scientist at Yale University's Center for Emotional Intelligence, as she shatters the myth of creativity as a fixed trait. Her insights from "The Creativity Choice: The Science of Making Decisions to Turn Ideas into Action" guide us through redefining creativity as a choice, empowering us to intentionally cultivate it in all aspects of life. Whether you're an artist or a business professional, Zorana's wisdom will help you recognize and harness your creative potential. We explore the (often overwhelming) challenge of managing an abundance of ideas and the art of creative problem-solving. Learn practical strategies to overcome creative blocks, such as task switching and the innovative concepts of "problem finding" and "problem construction" that encourage redefining challenges for fresh solutions. Explore the vital role of psychological safety in fostering organizational creativity. We discuss how leaders can create an environment where diverse perspectives are welcomed, and emotions are seen as valuable datapoints for decision-making. Through this lens, creativity becomes a continuous series of choices, each an opportunity for originality and innovation. Zorana's insights offer a roadmap for choosing creativity at every turn, leading to more effective and innovative outcomes. Don't miss out on this opportunity to enhance your creative journey with the tools and techniques shared in this episode. What You’ll Learn - How to redefine creativity as a conscious choice - Strategies to ignite and enhance personal creativity - Techniques to manage and overcome idea overload - Ways to foster and spark innovation within organizations - The importance of psychological safety in the creative process - Insights into unlocking and realizing one's full creative potential Podcast Timestamps (00:01) – Creativity is a Choice (15:14) – Navigating Ideas and Creative Problem Solving (31:16) – Unleashing Organizational Creativity (42:23) – Fostering Psychological Safety for Innovation (51:56) – Creativity as a Continuous Process KEYWORDS Positive Leadership, Creativity, Innovation, Generating Ideas, The Power of Problem-Finding, Social Connections, Overcoming Creative Blocks, Task Switching, Psychological Safety, Organizational Creativity, Inviting Diverse Perspectives, Emotions as Data, Improving Decision-Making, Continuous Learning, CEO Success

    55 min
  2. A CEO’s Playbook for Building an Award-Winning Culture: A Conversation with Lindsay Dodd

    OCT 9

    A CEO’s Playbook for Building an Award-Winning Culture: A Conversation with Lindsay Dodd

    In this week’s episode of the Do Good to Lead Well podcast, I had the pleasure of speaking with Lindsay Dodd, the CEO of Cashco Financial, for an enlightening conversation about how to build an award-winning culture. He reveals how purpose and profitability can successfully coexist, emphasizing a people-first mindset that champions dignity, trust, and empowerment. His insights showcase how Cashco Financial has consistently earned recognition as one of Alberta’s best workplaces for five consecutive years. We explore leadership not as a set of inherent qualities, but as learned behaviors such as courage, confidence, empathy, and resilience, drawing from frameworks that advocate for modeling the way and inspiring a shared vision. Our discussion delves into the true meaning of authentic leadership, defining it as a consistent commitment to building trust by aligning our actions with our values and beliefs. Lindsay illustrates how genuine vulnerability, coupled with an openness to feedback and a commitment to inclusive workplaces, strengthens bonds and fosters collaboration. We explore practical strategies for navigating challenging peer interactions, stressing the importance of curiosity and addressing issues directly yet calmly. Additionally, Lindsay shares CashCo’s unique cultural practices, from hiring based on empathy to an “upside-down triangle” leadership model that prioritizes frontline staff, reinforcing values through daily core value stories. As we look to the future, the conversation addresses the complexities of leading in a polarized society and the rapid evolution of artificial intelligence. Lindsay offers advice on finding common ground amidst differing opinions and encourages leaders to engage with new technologies, learning and playing with them to discover new opportunities while managing risks. This episode offers practical wisdom for building successful, values-driven organizations and preparing for tomorrow’s challenges. What You’ll Learn - Leadership is a learned behavior - How authenticity builds trust - Go beyond superficial values. Identify operating values that show “how we do things around here” - Empathy drives performance and engagement - Hire for growth, always - Embrace AI with curiosity Podcast Timestamps (00:00) – Lessons in Leadership (07:02) – Authentic Leadership & Trust (12:38) – Vulnerability in Leadership (16:11) – Bringing Culture & Values to Life (20:28) – Leading in a Polarized World (25:38) – Operationalizing Core Values (35:35) – The Power of Empathy (40:29) – Leveraging Strengths, Building Teams (46:21) – Founder Advice: Hire Great People (49:21) – Navigating the AI Revolution (54:54) – Courageous Leadership: The Penguin Principle KEYWORDS Positive Leadership, Purpose-driven Leadership, Organizational Culture, Authentic Leadership, Building Trust, Employee Engagement, Core Values, Vulnerability in Leadership, Curiosity, Managing Conflict, Values Alignment, Future of Work, Artificial Intelligence, Empathy, Navigating Polarization, Adaptive Leadership, CEO Success

    56 min

  3. OCT 2

    The Power and Pitfalls of Self-Disclosure at Work

    Can sharing personal stories at work really boost your well-being and productivity? In my latest solo episode, I explore the fascinating dynamics of self-disclosure in the workplace, drawing insights from recent research. Discover how sharing positive experiences can elevate emotional well-being, enhance work energy, and foster deeper connections with colleagues, while venting about negative experiences might have the opposite effect. We also examine the motivations behind why we share, including connecting, venting, or seeking advice, and how they impact our well-being. To close, we consider the intriguing interplay of mismatched intentions, where what we are looking for is not returned and how Craig also unpacks the intriguing concept of response mismatches, where the intention to connect can be misaligned and strategies we can use, as both a sharer and listener, to avoid this unfortunate outcome. Tune in as explore an issue that we all face and learn evidence-based practices that can deepen the quality of our communication and connection. What You’ll Learn - How sharing positive experiences can boost your energy and strengthen connections with colleagues - The potential downsides of venting - The crucial role of intentions in self-disclosure; why we share impacts what we receive in return - The role of intention in improving the quality of our conversations - How to avoid misalignment between our intentions and our impact KEYWORDS Positive Leadership, Group Dynamics, Positive Communication, Self-Disclosure, Emotional Well-being, Mental Health, Managing Professional Relationships, Lead with Intention, High-Quality Conversations, Team Success, The Power of Vulnerability, Emotional Regulation, Support, CEO Success RESOURCES Do you have a minute? The cognitive and emotional consequences of self-disclosures at work - PubMed: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40424152/

    19 min
  4. Having It All: A Fresh, Evidence-Based Perspective on Work and Family Life with Dr. Corinne Low

    SEP 25

    Having It All: A Fresh, Evidence-Based Perspective on Work and Family Life with Dr. Corinne Low

    Dr. Corinne Low, a renowned associate professor at the Wharton School, joins us this week on the Do Good to Lead Well podcast. Drawing from her latest book, "Having It All: What Data Tells Us About Women's Lives and Getting the Most Out of Yours," Dr. Low explores the unique challenges faced by working mothers today. She candidly shares her personal experiences and rigorous research findings to offer evidence-based strategies for managing time pressures and empowering working mothers. Our conversation navigates through the shifting dynamics of parenting from the 1980s to today, underlining the significance of quality time with children against the backdrop of demanding societal standards. We dive into the nuanced topic of invisible labor, predominantly shouldered by mothers, and propose effective tools like data tracking for couples to evenly distribute household responsibilities. By encouraging open dialogue around these issues, the goal of her book is to foster a more equitable division of labor that enhances family dynamics and personal well-being. The episode also emphasizes the critical role of self-care and intentionality in relationships, with a special focus on mothers striving to "have it all." Dr. Low provides practical exercises to help listeners reconnect with their values, prioritize their own needs, and achieve a fulfilling work-life balance. She challenges traditional notions of success, urging listeners to align their personal values with professional goals for a truly rewarding career and life. Don't miss out on this insightful discussion filled with strategies for personal growth and a more balanced approach to work and family life. What You’ll Learn - The evolving landscape of gender economics and the pressures on working mothers. - Strategies to tackle invisible labor and foster equitable household responsibilities. - The significance of self-care and intentionality for personal and parenting relationships. - Aligning your values with your time; at work and at home. - Insights into redefining success in the modern family context. Podcast Timestamps (00:00) – What is the Meaning of “Having It All?” (07:29) – High-Quality Time and the Costs of Invisible Labor (19:30) – Asking the Right Questions of Ourselves and Our Partners (23:35) – The Importance of Self-Care in Relationships (35:28) – The Science and Practice of Work-Life Balance (42:38) – Building A Values-Based Roadmap in Work and in Life KEYWORDS Positive Leadership, Gender Economics, Work-Life Balance, Working Mothers, Gender Roles, Invisible Labor, Personal Well-being, Self-Care, Flexible Work Schedules, Career Goals, Personal Growth, Parenting, Leisure Time, Structural Dynamics, Reflection Questions, Personal and Professional Growth, CEO Success

    43 min
  5. The Power of Principled Dissent and Curiosity in Leadership with Todd Kashdan

    SEP 18

    The Power of Principled Dissent and Curiosity in Leadership with Todd Kashdan

    On this episode of the Do Good to Lead Well podcast, I sit down with Dr. Todd Kashdan, a top expert in well-being, curiosity and resilience to dive right into an engaging discussion about what makes a great conversationalist. We cover a wide range of topics during our time together, including three of his exceptional books and his Substack – Provoked. Dr. Kashdan’s insights will challenge your perceptions and assumptions and provide deeper and richer insights into how we approach our personal and professional lives. We start by exploring the science of Curiosity, which he outlined in an earlier book. He also sheds light on his previous book, the "Upside of your Dark Side," exploring how traditionally ‘negative’ emotions like anger can be powerful drivers of social change and effective leadership. This exploration extends to challenging the culture of toxic positivity and recognizing the indispensable role of negative emotions in personal and professional growth. Finally, we unpack the complex terrain of principled dissent. Through personal stories and real-world applications, the conversation highlights the importance of social courage and independent decision-making. Dr. Kashdan discusses how integrating dissenters with supportive allies can create a productive environment, both online and offline, and underscores the necessity of authenticity beyond performative gestures. This episode offers valuable insights into navigating leadership challenges with principle, providing a compelling roadmap for fostering positive environments where we effectively leverage the diversity of the human experience to achieve extraordinary things together. What You’ll Learn - The essence of great conversationalists - The importance of social sensitivity in fostering positive group dynamics - Harnessing diverse perspectives to drive creativity and innovation. - Exploring the "Upside of your Dark Side" and how traditionally negative emotions can fuel positive social change. - The role of principled dissent in societal and individual growth - The power of alignment between your Values X Actions Podcast Timestamps (00:00) - Curiosity as a Vital Skill in Leadership and in Life (13:59) - Navigating Diversity and Psychological Safety (20:36) - Exploring the Upside of Your Dark Side (38:50) - Challenging the Status Quo: Group Norms and Decision-Making (48:16) – The True Power of Principled Dissent KEYWORDS Positive Leadership, The Art of Meaningful Conversation, Curiosity, Psychological Safety, Cognitive Diversity, Navigating Group Dynamics, Fostering Creativity and Innovation, The Benefits of a Wandering Mind, Facing the Shadow Self, The Upside of Anger, Power Dynamics, Principled Dissent, Exhibiting Social Courage, Creating Allyship, The Perils of Performative Versus Principled Leadership, CEO Success

    57 min
  6. Embracing Uncertainty: Transforming Challenges into Success with Scott Stirrett

    SEP 11

    Embracing Uncertainty: Transforming Challenges into Success with Scott Stirrett

    Scott Stirrett, the inspiring entrepreneur and author, graces us with his presence to unravel the wisdom behind his latest book, "The Uncertainty Advantage: Launching Your Career in an Era of Rapid Change." Scott candidly shares personal battles with anxiety, OCD, burnout, and imposter syndrome, revealing how vulnerability and storytelling can transform uncertainty into a powerful tool for growth. Through Scott's lens, we explore the idea that embracing the unknown can unlock untapped potential and drive both personal and professional success. We tackle the pressing issue of burnout, distinguishing it from typical stress and uncovering how mindfulness can be a key player in managing it. Scott and I dive into practical strategies that help identify burnout's root causes, often hidden in misalignment with personal values or toxic environments, and offer actionable advice on mitigating its effects. For those skeptical about mindfulness, we share simple practices to integrate reflection into daily life, helping build resilience and safeguard mental health amidst chaos. As the world of work evolves, the conversation shifts toward the future, where skills like collaboration and communication become indispensable. We discuss how embracing intelligent failures and risk-taking leads to success, highlighting the myth of the singular big risk and emphasizing the importance of a strong support network. Leaders will find valuable insights on fostering a culture that thrives in uncertainty, celebrating both achievements and failures, and making informed decisions with limited data. This episode is packed with enriching perspectives on navigating uncertainty with confidence and compassion. What You’ll Learn - How to embrace and leverage uncertainty for personal and professional growth - Unpacking mindfulness for skeptics - Strategies for conquering burnout and maintaining well-being - Insights into mastering intelligent risk-taking - The power and practice of self-compassion - Strategies for maximizing team clarity, alignment, and trust Podcast Timestamps (00:00) – A Personal Window into the Uncertainty Advantage (08:03) – The Role of Mindfulness in Managing Burnout (14:55) – The Power of Self-Compassion in for Navigating Uncertainty (18:45) – Dealing with Impostor Syndrome (27:02) – The Upside of Stress (35:24) – Failure as a Path to Success (41:58) – How to Build Resilient and Adaptable Teams| Connect with Scott Stirrett: Website: https://www.scottstirrett.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottstirrett/ Buy the Book: https://www.scottstirrett.com/the-uncertainty-advantage Substack: https://scottstirrett.substack.com/archive KEYWORDS Positive Leadership, Group Dynamics, Team Success, Navigating Uncertainty, Managing Burnout, Practicing Mindfulness, Increasing Resilience, Stress Management, Dealing with Imposter Syndrome, The Power of Vulnerability, Emotional Regulation, Anti-Fragility, RULER, Intelligent Failures, Self-Compassion Support, Adaptability, CEO Success

    50 min
  7. Unlocking the Secret Power of Groups with Colin Fisher

    SEP 4

    Unlocking the Secret Power of Groups with Colin Fisher

    Step into the fascinating world of group dynamics with our special guest, Colin Fisher, an associate professor at University College London and the creative mind behind the upcoming book, "The Collective Edge: Unlocking the Secret Power of Groups." Drawing from his rich experiences in research and consulting, Colin shares how groups can achieve greatness that far exceeds individual contributions. He highlights the importance of treating groups as unique entities, crucial for problem-solving and enhancing collaboration in daily and professional settings. Explore the secrets behind effective team composition as Colin guides us through the critical elements of social sensitivity, skill diversity, and intrinsic motivation. We underline the importance of forming teams with members who are socially aware and genuinely invested in their tasks. The discussion delves into empathy's role in team performance, offering actionable insights for leaders striving to build more cohesive and dynamic teams. We also tackle the complexities of remote and hybrid work environments and stress the importance of psychological safety, enabling team members to challenge norms without fear. From enhancing trust and communication to fostering adaptability, this conversation provides an evidence-informed roadmap for anyone seeking to unlock the full potential of their teams. What You’ll Learn - Effective team composition through social sensitivity, skill diversity, and intrinsic motivation - The role of empathy in team performance and strategies for building cohesive, dynamic teams - The power of curiosity and inquiry in welcoming diverse perspectives and enhancing team dynamics - Challenges and opportunities in remote and hybrid work environments, emphasizing psychological safety and adaptability - Strategies for maximizing team clarity, alignment, and trust Podcast Timestamps (00:00) - The Power of Group Dynamics (15:09) - Effective Team Composition Through Social Sensitivity (20:21) - Improving Team Dynamics Through Inquiry (31:11) – Leading Remote and Hybrid Teams (42:16) - Maximizing Team Clarity and Alignment (50:31) - Dynamic Team Charters and Coaching Insights KEYWORDS Positive Leadership, Group Dynamics, Team Success, Social Sensitivity, Intrinsic Motivation, Empathy, Remote Work, Psychological Safety, Building Trust, Improving Team Communication, Team Building, Establishing Clear Goals, Maximizing Alignment, Elevating Curiosity, Active Listening, Continuous Communication, CEO Success

    57 min
  8. The Power of Mattering: Transforming Leadership Through Meaningful Connection with Zach Mercurio

    AUG 28

    The Power of Mattering: Transforming Leadership Through Meaningful Connection with Zach Mercurio

    Can small, meaningful interactions transform leadership and organizational success? Join us as we explore this fascinating question with Zach Mercurio, an authority in purposeful leadership and positive organizational psychology. Through Zach's compelling research, we uncover the concept of "mattering" in the workplace, a crucial element often overlooked amidst traditional rewards like pay raises and promotions. As employees grapple with feelings of invisibility, Zach introduces the idea of a "mattering deficit" and shares his insights on how leaders can create cultures where every team member feels valued and significant, elevating both well-being and performance. Our conversation with Zach also explores the profound impact of genuine care and connection in leadership. We address the distinction between caring about and caring for team members, emphasizing the importance of intentionality in leaders' actions. Unconscious signals can undermine employees' sense of mattering, and Zach provides practical strategies to ensure leaders' good intentions translate into meaningful daily practices. From understanding the role of "soft skills" to recognizing the subtle biases that can lead to complacency, we explore ways to build a supportive environment that fosters true belonging. Finally, we touch upon the critical role of noticing and affirming those we rely on at work. By moving beyond transactional interactions to transformational ones, leaders can create a more inclusive atmosphere. We share techniques like the green, yellow, red check-in to gauge emotional states and Carl Rogers' active listening principles, vital for building meaningful relationships. As we consider the intersection of AI and human connection, this episode promises a thought-provoking discussion on how recognizing and valuing each other can empower teams and, ultimately, transform organizations. What You’ll Learn - The critical nuances between caring about and caring for your team - Shifting from transactional to transformational interactions - The significance of emotional connections in communication and decision-making - The paradox of leadership: empowering teams by letting go - The vital role of soft skills and the intersection of AI and human connection Podcast Timestamps (00:03) – The Power of Mattering (in Leadership) (12:14) - The Importance of Caring for Others (18:36) – What It Truly Means to Notice Someone (27:03) –Small Gestures Can Build Deep Emotional Connections (38:03) – How to Create Psychological Safety (48:02) - Empowering Leadership Through Relinquishing Control (54:29) - Mattering in an AI World KEYWORDS Positive Leadership, The Power of Mattering, Maximizing Engagement, Enhancing Well-being, A Culture of Caring, Practicing Empathy, Soft Skills Drive Hard Results, Deep Emotional Connections, Effective Communication, Building Trust, The Perils of Command and Control, Increasing Human Connection, Relational Economy, Creativity, CEO Success

    56 min
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5
out of 5
10 Ratings

About

If you're passionate about mastering self-leadership, you're in the right place. I've dedicated my career to understanding the science and practice of positive leadership. I Integrate evidence-based principles from the fields of positive psychology with those in leadership and organizational excellence that will help you develop real-life solutions to solve your greatest challenges. Each week I'll bring world-class content with industry experts to help you use positive leadership to build a peak performance culture.

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