Show Up as a Leader with Dr. Rosie Ward

Rosie Ward and her friend Nikki Lewallen Gregory flip the script, coming together for a lively, in-person conversation that's part geek-out, part leadership masterclass. This episode is part of our Courageous Leadership series. After years of virtual connection, Rosie and Nikki finally meet at CultureCon, and the energy is palpable. What's on the table? A deep dive into how leaders can align their...

In this episode, Dr. Chris Johnson opens up about the wake-up call that made her rethink how she balances leadership and life. From juggling personal loss to a demanding career, Chris found herself burnt out—until nature reminded her of a simple truth: rest is power. Tune in for actionable insights and a practice that will help you slow down and show up more fully—because leadership isn't just abo...

Have you ever found yourself craving feedback to help you grow, only to feel disappointed with what you receive? Many people, even those who enjoy giving feedback, can be hesitant due to fear of coming across as judgmental or hurting feelings. Tune in to discover an approach that fosters constructive conversations when you're seeking input from others. Additional Resources: Connect with Rosie on L...

Can remote companies really build strong cultures? Rosie sits down with Matt Tait, CEO and Co-Founder of Decimal, to uncover the messy middle of building a people-first, values-driven company. Matt Tait has spent his career as an entrepreneur, having previously launched two technology companies. Matt shares the lessons learned from his past failures, how Decimal grew from a team of two to over 80...

Rana DeBoer dives into actionable strategies to enhance your leadership impact by leveraging "power moments." Moving beyond mindset, Rana guides leaders on how to take purposeful actions that align human needs with business goals. Discover how to identify and capitalize on key moments throughout your day that can make a difference in your leadership effectiveness Tune in to explore how to elevate...

The conversation explores the topic of courage in the workplace, specifically in the context of diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) work. Hosts, Natalie and Rebecca, interview Julio Quintero, who works with the University of Dayton on DEIB strategic planning. They discuss the importance of courage in speaking up and sharing perspectives, as well as the need for individuals to calibr...

If mastering prioritization is on your bucket list, this episode is for you. Rosie delves into effective time management and prioritization with her insightful metaphor, "Glass vs Rubber Balls." Rosie introduces the concept of viewing tasks as balls in a bucket, categorized as glass (critical and non-negotiable), wood (recoverable if damaged), and rubber (tasks that bounce back). This episode high...

Rosie's guest Matt Poepsel shares his journey of self-discovery and the importance of personal development in leadership. He introduces the concept of the three killer B 's - being, belonging, and something bigger than oneself - and how organizations often fail to meet these higher order needs. Matt believes in the importance of embracing a selfless approach to leadership and shares examples of or...

In this episode, Chris Johnson discusses the challenging yet transformative topic of emotional regulation at work. She recounts a personal story of being on the receiving end of an unexpected rant during a professional interaction. Understand the physiological and psychological reactions we have when triggered and how our deeply ingrained mindsets shape these responses. Learn practical strategies...

What is the importance of seeking authentic feedback to challenge self-limiting beliefs and assumptions? Rosie explores the common misconceptions leaders often have about their value—whether it's being the fixer, the person with all the answers, or the one who always keeps everyone happy. Through a powerful exercise known as the "interview test," we learn how to ask those around us the right quest...

Dr. Gary Sanchez, founder of the Why Institute, discusses the importance of understanding one's why, how, and what in order to show up as an authentic leader. He shares his journey of discovering his own why and how it transformed his dental practice. The Why Operating System (WHY.os)helps individuals and teams uncover their unique operating system and communicate their purpose effectively. This e...

In this episode, Rana DeBoer discusses the importance of beliefs in driving behavior and becoming a better leader. She introduces the concept of the 'Believe, Behave, Become' formula, which emphasizes the power of personal and organizational core values. By aligning beliefs with behaviors, leaders can outperform and achieve their goals. Rana encourages listeners to define their personal core value...

I n this episode of Energy, Connection & Courage at Work, hosts Rebecca Johnson and Natalie Johnson explore the relationship between courage, humility, energy, and connection in the workplace with special guest Shontra Powell. Shontra shares a personal story about a challenging leadership role where she had to find the courage to admit her mistakes and seek to understand her team. She emphasizes t...

In this episode, Rosie Ward challenges listeners to let go of taking responsibility for others' outcomes. She shares that leaders often try to save people or work harder than the individuals themselves, whether in the workplace, parenting, or coaching. Rosie emphasizes that while leaders should call others to greatness, provide clear expectations, and be supportive, they must let go of attachment...

Does it feel like you're spinning your wheels trying to achieve your vision, find clarity, and maximize your impact? Andrea Butcher , CEO of  HRD  and  podcast host of Being [at Work] , says the solution is to go big picture. In this popular re-released episode, she shares her four-step visioning process and discusses the importance of knowing exactly what you're working toward. Listen in to hear...

Chris Johnson , author of " The Leadership Pause " and the owner of Q4-Consulting , is a renowned executive leadership coach, psychologist, and consultant. From a serene childhood on a Midwestern farm to guiding leaders today, Chris Johnson has always found wisdom in nature. In this episode of the "Leadership Pause," Chris explores the rejuvenating power of nature and how it can profoundly impact...

The impact of our word choices is profound. With years of experience guiding clients and colleagues, Rosie shares her insights into the crucial distinction between helping, fixing, and serving. Learn why helping can unintentionally position others as weak and fixing can make them feel broken. Through Rosie's nuanced discussion, leaders will discover how shifting towards a mindset of service allows...

Jen's life changed drastically when she found herself assisting in the aftermath of the Sandy Hook shooting, and four months later, she was nearing the finish line when the Boston Marathon bombing occurred. In the wake of those tragedies, Jen found that while so many people said they cared, those affected did not feel cared for. Since then, she has dedicated her time to bridging the gap between ca...

In this episode host Rana DeBoer shares actionable insights to help you elevate your leadership game. Rana sheds light on the intent, influence, and impact formula that leaders can use to drive greater results and outperformance within their teams and organizations. She emphasizes the importance of being purpose-driven, energy-fueled, action-orientated, and knowledge-hungry—components of her "peak...

Joe Rea is a passionate leader in the behavioral health sector who exemplifies courageous leadership in action. In this episode, hosts Rebecca Johnson and Natalie Johnson explore the multifaceted role of courage in the workplace. Joe delves into his evolution as a leader, sharing invaluable insights on how integrity and vulnerability shape effective leadership. Joe emphasizes that true leadership...

Embark on a transformative journey with Rosie Ward in this episode where she unpacks the powerful Law of Diffusion of Innovation. Rosie beautifully illustrates how change propagates through a population in an engaging and authentic manner. With a bell-shaped curve as her guide, she explains the importance of focusing on innovators and early adopters rather than being bogged down by skeptics and na...

Jeff Fortner, Clinical and HR Director at Indiana Internal Medicine Consultants, joins host Rosie Ward to discuss the power of living authentically and leading with vulnerability. Jeff, coming from a multicultural, multinational family with five kids, three of whom are adopted, shares his heartwarming journey and the lessons he's learned along the way. Rosie emphasizes the importance of authentici...

In this special BONUS episode, host Rosie Ward is joined by friend, fellow podcaster , and Founder and Chief Meaningful Work Officer at the PeopleForward Network , Nikki Lewallen Gregory , for a conversation around courageous leadership. Learn about how to foster clarity and alignment especially amidst change. By weaving practical insights with real-life experiences, our hosts underscore the impor...

Treat yourself to practical steps for energy regulation and self-awareness to optimize your leadership potential. Chris Johnson , author of " The Leadership Pause " and the owner of Q4-Consulting , is a renowned executive leadership coach, psychologist, and consultant. In this episode, Chris highlights the significance of homeostasis and energy regulation in leadership. She offers an engaging narr...

Today, Rosie Ward takes us on a journey through the essential facets of self-care and personal leadership. Rosie underscores the importance of putting on "our own oxygen masks" first, likening it to the crucial practice of self-care. She delves into a simple yet impactful exercise called "Ingredients to Be My Best," encouraging listeners to identify key factors that help them optimize their perfor...