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The Indispensable Conversation

The Indispensable Conversation

By James M. Kerr

Most podcasts out there today do little more than provide a platform for somebody to promote their latest book.

As a person who has been interviewed hundreds of times on these kinds of programs, I know how they work – contrived and pre-planned. In fact, you will likely hear the same messages nearly every time an expert is interviewed.

The Indispensable Conversation is different.

We host authentic conversations about real topics that impact leaders of all kinds. There are no read ahead questions, no retakes, no BS.

Just one guest, one provocative question, one indispensable conversation.
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Currently playing episode

Mark Cumicek: Does finding one’s purpose really matter in today’s crazy, mixed-up world?

The Indispensable ConversationApr 08, 2022

00:00
30:35
Monte Pedersen: Do you have to stay hungry to be outstanding?

Monte Pedersen: Do you have to stay hungry to be outstanding?

Monte Pedersen joins Jim Kerr on the 50th episode of The Indispensable Conversation podcast. If you're unfamiliar with Monte, he heads up The CDA Group LLC an independent leadership training firm specializing in strategy execution. The focus of his thought leadership centers around how to get results. It's this focus that makes him the perfect guest to tackle this question with me: "Do you have to stay hungry to be outstanding?"

Nov 30, 202331:46
Rishad Ahmed - Do you need to develop a keen intuition to be an exceptional leader?

Rishad Ahmed - Do you need to develop a keen intuition to be an exceptional leader?

World famous keynote speaker and business coach Rishad Ahmed joins me for next episode of The Indispensable Conversation. Rishad works to ignite transformation through holistic thinking and wisdom-driven leadership. He wants to help you to empower your organization for an inspired future. This all makes him the "right guest, at the right time" to delve into this question with me: Do you need to develop a keen intuition to be an exceptional leader?

Nov 17, 202332:28
Tyler Schmoker: Is it possible to navigate between staying true to oneself and adapting to societal expectations

Tyler Schmoker: Is it possible to navigate between staying true to oneself and adapting to societal expectations

Today my guest is the world famous thrill seeker and creative motivator Tyler Schmoker. Tyler is a retired army veteran, mountain climber, cross country skier, and all around good guy. His posts on LinkedIn are distinctive because they typically feature him in some sort of “day in the life” motif. Indeed, death defying cycling vids are inter-meshed with views from the State Fair or his vegetable garden and all come with a message that inspires. In our opinion, this makes Tyler the ideal guest to tackle this question with me: "Is it possible to navigate between staying true to oneself and adapting to societal expectations?"

Nov 02, 202331:12
Eric Stone: Does Company Culture Matter When Work is Fully Remote?

Eric Stone: Does Company Culture Matter When Work is Fully Remote?

Join me as I welcome Eric Stone, newly minted author and consultant, to The Indispensable Conversation Podcast as we explore the question:
"Does Company Culture Matter When Work is Fully Remote?"


We sure get after it on topics including motivation, community and commitment.

Oct 20, 202331:12
Joe Polanin: Is it on leaders to make their people happy?

Joe Polanin: Is it on leaders to make their people happy?

This episode of The Indispensable Conversation features award winning CEO, combat veteran, and author Joseph Polanin.

Listen in as we tackle the question:


Is it on leaders to make their people happy?


Listen in! You just might be surprised where we go on this one!

Oct 12, 202330:46
Tim Hughes: Does social selling still have a place in an AI-based world?

Tim Hughes: Does social selling still have a place in an AI-based world?

Tim Hughes’ LinkedIn profile states he “Should have played Quidditch for England.” But, that’s not the reason he’s joining me as a guest on the next episode of The Indispensable Conversation.

Rather, the fact that he wrote a terrific book last year entitled: Social Selling: Techniques to Influence Buyers and Change-makers makes him the “right” guest to wrestle through the following question with me on this episode of The Indispensable Conversation:

Does social selling still have a place in an AI-based world?

Listen in as we get after this one!

Sep 19, 202332:13
Dr. Gary Crotaz: Will AI Change The Face of Leadership Coaching?

Dr. Gary Crotaz: Will AI Change The Face of Leadership Coaching?

Will AI change the face of leadership coaching?
This is the question that I tackle with my guest
Dr Gary Crotaz, in the this episode of The Indispensable Conversation.
As some may know, I covered this topic in a piece that I wrote for Psychology Today a few weeks back and it sparked great interest. So, I thought, why not cover it in the podcast.
Gary’s recent involvement in the creation of a self-coaching app makes him the perfect guest to tackle this topic with me. Listen in...

Aug 18, 202333:10
Ebony Travis Tichenor: How should employee satisfaction be measured in a hybrid work world

Ebony Travis Tichenor: How should employee satisfaction be measured in a hybrid work world

Ebony Travis Tichenor is the Director, Global Well-being & HR Employee Policies at Boston Scientific. She has more than 25 years of hands-on experience directing all aspects of workforce development, including diversity, equity, outreach, inclusion training, and internal policy and practice review for efficiency and equity. However, it’s Ebony’s vast experience in talent acquisition and retention that makes her the ideal guest to explore the following question with me on this episode of The Indispensable Conversation: How should employee satisfaction be measured in a hybrid work world?


Jul 27, 202331:05
Karl Hebenstreit⁠: Do tools like Enneagram, Myers-Briggs and DISC still provide value to business leaders today?
Jul 06, 202331:50
Enrico Biscaro - Does the “boss mentality” have a place in business today?

Enrico Biscaro - Does the “boss mentality” have a place in business today?

For the past 15 years, Enrico Biscaro has mentored, coached and touched the lives of countless people, helping them become the best version of themselves and achieve their dreams. His book Resonance amplifies the importance of servant leadership within organizations. More notably, however, Enrico always puts team, first.
It's these characteristics that make him the perfect guest to tackle this question with me on The Indispensable Conversation:

Does the “boss mentality” have a place in business today?

Jun 13, 202332:19
Tony Martignetti - Is social media to blame for our increased unhappiness at work?

Tony Martignetti - Is social media to blame for our increased unhappiness at work?

Tony Martignetti works to elevate leaders and equip them with the tools  to navigate through change. He is also the host of the popular The  Virtual Campfire Podcast. 

Most importantly, though, folks that work with  Tony say he has a rare combination of sunny personality, deep thinking,  and intuition that serve him well.     

It's these traits that make him the perfect guest to tackle this  question with me on The Indispensable Conversation:    

Is social media to blame for our increased unhappiness at work?

Be sure to check it out and pass it along to someone in your circle that may benefit from the perspective.

Feb 20, 202331:14
Reggie Walker - Must we accept accountability for our behavior to effectively lead others?

Reggie Walker - Must we accept accountability for our behavior to effectively lead others?

Reggie Walker played 7 years in the NFL, was a team captain for the  Arizona Cardinals and is the author of The Game Within The Game. 

He has  also lived through some trauma and has come out the other side stronger  and wiser because of it.    

It's this last point that makes him the perfect guest to tackle this  question on this episode of The Indispensable Conversation:    

Must we accept accountability for our behavior to effectively lead  others?    

Come and join us in this indispensable conversation.

Feb 03, 202331:14
Cali Williams Yost - Should achieving work-life balance really be the goal?

Cali Williams Yost - Should achieving work-life balance really be the goal?

Cali Williams Yost is a leading authority on high performance work  flexibility. A visionary workplace futurist, strategist, author, and  keynote speaker.    

Additionally, Yost is the Founder and CEO of the Flex+Strategy Group, a  solutions company helping organizations unlock performance and  engagement by reimagining how, when, and where work is done.    

It’s this background that makes Cali the outright “best” guest for this  episode of The Indispensable Conversation where we explore this  question:    

Should achieving work-life balance really be the goal?      

It is an awesome question to explore as we head into 2023. Be sure to give it a listen and let us know what you think. Thanks!

Jan 23, 202331:28
Kathy Caprino - How can we assess if the "grass is really greener" over there?

Kathy Caprino - How can we assess if the "grass is really greener" over there?

Kathy Caprino is a Leadership Coach, Speaker, Senior Forbes Contributor and host of the Finding Brave Podcast. She draws on her work as a former corporate therapist, to help people dig deep, discover their right work, and illuminate the world with it.

It’s this background that makes Kathy the absolute “right” guest for this episode of The Indispensable Conversation where we explore this question:

How can we assess if the "grass is really greener" over there?

It is a terrific topic to begin the New Year as many have made resolutions to move on to bigger and better things.

Call your friends around and give a listen!

Jan 07, 202330:59
Ben Lytle - Can successful people who choose not to pivot remain on top?

Ben Lytle - Can successful people who choose not to pivot remain on top?

Ben Lytle, retired Chairman and CEO of Anthem, is an entrepreneur,  investor and author of The Potentialist.  

According to Ben, “Potentialists” are laser-focused on the immense  potential that technology will bring to individuals and society. In a  future where limitations around language, location, even lifespan will  cease to exist, Potentialists strive to discover (and profit from) every  opportunity of emerging trends.  

This makes Ben the “right” guest for this episode of The Indispensable  Conversation where we explore this question:  

Can successful people who choose not to pivot remain on top?

Give us a listen...

Dec 19, 202230:02
Rob Salafia - Is executive presence just another over-hyped business catchphrase?

Rob Salafia - Is executive presence just another over-hyped business catchphrase?

Rob Salafia is a McGraw-Hill author, a storyteller and an MIT Master Executive Coach.     

However, it is his work in helping leaders in developing executive poise, presence and influence which makes Rob the “perfect” guest for this episode of The Indispensable Conversation where we explore the question of the week for many leaders:    

Is executive presence just another over-hyped business catchphrase?

Be sure to check it out! It is a fun topic to explore...

Nov 30, 202230:59
Eddie Turner - Why do most DEI programs leave staffers underwhelmed?

Eddie Turner - Why do most DEI programs leave staffers underwhelmed?

Eddie Turner an in-demand leadership development expert. 

He has appeared  in national print, radio, and television media such as the Wall Street  Journal, CNN, Fox News, PBS, NPR, and ABC discussing topics related to  leadership and diversity.    

It is this background that makes Eddie the “right” guest for this  episode of The Indispensable Conversation where we explore this key  question for today’s top leaders:    

Why do most DEI programs leave staffers underwhelmed?      

Be sure to check-out our conversation -- it's sure to inform and enlighten.

Nov 18, 202230:38
Dino Carella - Is the theory of positive thinking complete and utter nonsense?

Dino Carella - Is the theory of positive thinking complete and utter nonsense?

Dino Carella is a coach, mentor and author of "The Way of the Wind."     

As a one-time corporate leader with 30 years of experience, Dino  understands how the constant pressure to deliver results, can lead to  long hours, and regular conflicts between one’s family, social, and  workplace responsibilities – making it nearly impossible for one’s life  to reflect our true essence.    

That said, Dino wants us to reclaim our spark and live a more authentic  and fulfilling life and believes that adopting positive thinking isn’t  enough to make that happen.     

It is this position  that makes Dino the “right” guest for this episode  of The Indispensable Conversation where we will explore this very important question:    

Is the theory of positive thinking complete and utter nonsense?    

Please be sure to join us!

Nov 04, 202231:35
Jack Wiley - Customer-first or employee-first, which is better for business?

Jack Wiley - Customer-first or employee-first, which is better for business?

Jack Wiley, PhD, is an award-winning organizational psychologist,  researcher, and leadership consultant.     

He was awarded the prestigious Professional Practice award by the  Society of Industrial-Organizational Psychology (SIOP), a lifetime  achievement award for outstanding contributions to the practice of  industrial-organizational psychology. He also is a Fellow of the  American Psychological Association and the Association for Psychological Science.   

Additionally, Dr. Wiley is the author of three books, including his  latest The Employee-Centric Manager: 8 Keys to People-Management  Effectiveness (2021).     

It is this distinguished back ground that makes him the perfect guest for this episode of The Indispensable Conversation where we will explore  this very important question:    

Customer-first or employee-first, which is better for business?    

You don't want to miss this episode...

PLEASE SUBSCRIBE SO YOU NEVER MISS AN EPISODE!

Oct 21, 202231:56
Mark C. Crowley: Is emotional currency worth more than raises and bonuses?

Mark C. Crowley: Is emotional currency worth more than raises and bonuses?

This episode of The Indispensable Conversation features Mark C. Crowley.      

Mark is a popular leadership speaker, podcast host, consultant and  change agent for workplace engagement and culture.  He is also the  author of Lead From The Heart, a book that examines how to lead and  inspire others to greatness. by leading from the heart.    

All of this makes him the perfect guest to tackle this question with me:      

“Is emotional currency worth more than raises and bonuses?”     

In the face of today's economic uncertainties, this question is an  essential one for leaders to get a handle on.     

Indeed, you won't want to miss this episode.

Oct 07, 202233:26
Mike Mazarr - Does a nation’s competitive success simply come down to military and economic might?

Mike Mazarr - Does a nation’s competitive success simply come down to military and economic might?

This episode of The Indispensable Conversation features Michael Mazarr.     

If you’re unfamiliar with Mike, he is Senior Political Scientist at RAND  Corporation. A self-defined generalist, Mike has spent substantial time  on issues including arms control, U.S. defense policy (force posture,  doctrine, etc.), decision-making theory, Korean Peninsula security, and  most recently South Asia.     

It’s this distinctive background that makes him the perfect guest to  tackle this question with me:     

“Does a nation’s competitive success simply come down to military and  economic might?”     

The question is vitally important for top leaders to contemplate, right  now, as they continue to be challenged to place their bets today for  continued success in an uncertain tomorrow.     

Truly, you don't want to miss this episode.

Sep 23, 202234:09
Dorie Clark: Can We Be Long-Term Thinkers in a Short-Term World?

Dorie Clark: Can We Be Long-Term Thinkers in a Short-Term World?

Dorie Clark is my guest to kick-off Season III of The Indispensable Conversation.    

For those who mat not know Dorie, she is a Duke & Columbia Business Professor; WSJ Bestselling Author; Ranked #1 Communication Coach and a Top 50 Business Thinker in World as designated by Thinkers50.    

But, it is the fact that her latest book, “The Long Game” is so highly regarded within today's top leadership circles that makes Dorie the perfect guest to tackle this question with me:    

“Can We Be Long-Term Thinkers in a Short-Term World?”    

The question is so compelling because leaders must be able to answer this question for themselves in these unprecedented and challenging times.     

Indeed, you won't want to miss this episode so please be sure to follow the link and register.     

Sep 14, 202232:51
Marshall Goldsmith - What is an Earned Life?

Marshall Goldsmith - What is an Earned Life?

Marshall Goldsmith is my guest on the final episode of Season II of The Indispensable Conversation.   

If you're unfamiliar, Marshall is an elite executive coach and a New York Times Number 1 best selling author. His body of work has earned several highly acclaimed distinctions, including:  

  • Harvard Business Review - World’s #1 Leadership Thinker,  
  • American Management Association - 50 great thinkers who have influenced the field of management 
  • Bloomberg Businessweek - 50 great leaders in America.  
  • Global Gurus - Corps D ’Elite Award for Lifetime Contribution in both Leadership and Coaching,   

But, it is the fact that his latest book, “The Earned Life” is so highly regarded within today's top leadership circles that makes Marshall the perfect guest to tackle this question with me:  

What is an earned life?  

It is a critically essential question for us all to answer for ourselves in these uncertain times. 

Additionally, it may very well lead to us taking on related questions, like:   

1. What is the source of today’s existential crisis? 

2. I always thought ‘empathy’ was a great thing. How can it cause more harm than good?  

3. What do you say is one of the most common challenges of the successful people you coach? 

4. What do you mean by ‘credibility has to be earned twice’? 

5. How can we balance our persistent need to win with the ‘stuff happens’ unfairness of life?  

You won't want to miss this episode! 

Listen to it now.

Jul 08, 202230:56
Freddie Ravel - Can Music Really Make Us Better Leaders?
Jun 17, 202231:33
Donna Kennedy-Glans: Which is Best for Business, Social Polarization or Apathy?

Donna Kennedy-Glans: Which is Best for Business, Social Polarization or Apathy?

Is social polarization or apathy better for business?

There's certainly high tensions in the world today. Many are  discouraged by the political and societal polarization that they are  witnessing. Overwhelmed by it all, many are "checking out" -- leaving  business leaders to wonder:

Which is better for business, social polarization or apathy?

This is the question that I explore with author and keynote speaker,  Donna Kennedy-Glans, on this week's episode of The Indispensable  Conversation.

It is Donna's diverse and extensive experiences as a  boundary-crossing leader of inspired work in over 35 countries, in the  public, private and non-profit sectors that makes her the perfect guest  to explore this question with me.

Jun 10, 202231:10
Hamish Thomson: In An Age of Shameless Self-promotion Does Experience Matter Anymore?

Hamish Thomson: In An Age of Shameless Self-promotion Does Experience Matter Anymore?

In an age of shameless self-promotion, does experience matter anymore?   

This is the question that I explore with start-up adviser, consultant,  speaker and investor Hamish Thomson on this week's episode of The  Indispensable Conversation.     

Indeed, it is Hamish's vast and varied experiences (he is the former  Regional President/CEO and Global brand head for Mars Inc (UK,  Australia, Chicago) and a one-time senior marketing leader at Reebok  International (England & the Netherlands)) that makes him the right  guy to tackle this topic with me:    

In an age of shameless self-promotion, does experience matter anymore?

May 23, 202231:08
David Marlow: Is altruism just a sophisticated form of selfishness?
May 09, 202231:19
Jill Slader-Young: Can those who volunteer ever give too much?
May 02, 202233:11
Simon Haigh - If you win, do I have to lose?

Simon Haigh - If you win, do I have to lose?

If you win, do I have to lose?    

It seems far too many leaders believe that for them to "win," someone  must "lose." They've bought into the notion that there's simply just not  enough to go around. But, I wonder if that's really true.    

Who better to explore this question with me on this edition of The  Indispensable Conversation than Simon Haigh?    

Simon is a Life Coach, Consultant, Speaker, Business Advisor and Lawyer.  He helps leaders avoid roadblocks, pitfalls and mistakes to unlock  their potential and create transformational change. 

Certainly, Simon is  the "right" guy to tackle this question with me!

Apr 23, 202232:45
Jenny Landgren: Is Kindness A Sign of Weakness?

Jenny Landgren: Is Kindness A Sign of Weakness?

Is Kindness A Sign of Weakness?

Kindness  has been a recurring topic of many a leadership book and article these  days. It's no wonder, with a worldwide pandemic shaking us loose from  all of the assumptions that we thought we knew about the world. That  said, many leaders struggle with the notion -- thinking that a show of  kindness is a sign of weakness. But, is it?

Who better than Jenny Landgren to explore this question with me on this episode of The Indispensable Conversation?

Jenny  is an author and Behavioral Science Expert, who counsels CEOs,  managers, and employees, helping them understand their sphere of  influence in any given situation as well as teaching them how to connect  with their teams on a deeper level.

Kindness is a major theme in Jenny's work. So, she's the absolute "right" person to explore this question with me.

Apr 15, 202230:11
Mark Cumicek: Does finding one’s purpose really matter in today’s crazy, mixed-up world?

Mark Cumicek: Does finding one’s purpose really matter in today’s crazy, mixed-up world?

Does finding one’s purpose really matter in today’s crazy, mixed-up world?

Purpose  is a popular leadership theme. However, given all of what’s taking  shape in the world, one must wonder about the relevance.

Who better to explore this question with me on this edition of
The Indispensable Conversation than Mark Cumicek?

Mark  is a Certified Dream Manager and Life Coach who increases team and  organizational engagement and performance by empowering people to become  greater versions of themselves. Clearly, purpose is his middle name!

Be sure to tune-in to this week’s episode of The Indispensable Conversation.

Apr 08, 202230:35
Marc Wynn - Have we lost our ability to have a chat over a cup of Joe?

Marc Wynn - Have we lost our ability to have a chat over a cup of Joe?

This is the question that I pose to my guest, Marc Winn, on the next episode of The Indispensable Conversation.  

Marc speaks, coaches and advises on the subject of unlocking community and networks to solve complex challenges.  

However, it is Marc's latest book - The 50 Coffee Adventure: A Fun, Light and Easy Way to Build Connections—One Magical Conversation at a Time!, that makes him the perfect guest for this episode of The Indispensable Conversation.  

Join us this wonderfully essential question:  Have we lost our ability to have a chat over a cup of Joe?

Apr 01, 202232:08
Chris Jones - Does human creativity matter when data analytics dictates our every move?

Chris Jones - Does human creativity matter when data analytics dictates our every move?

Does human creativity matter when data analytics dictates our every  move?    

This is the question featured on this episode of The Indispensable  Conversation with my guest Chris Jones.    

Chris Jones is a former writer-at-large for Esquire magazine, has won  two National Magazine Awards. He is the author of Out of Orbit and  Falling Hard: A Rookie’s Year in Boxing. His work has also appeared in  The Best American Magazine Writing and The Best American Sports Writing  anthologies.     

That said, it is Chris' latest book - The Eye Test: A Case for Human  Creativity in the Age of Analytics, that makes him the perfect guest for  this episode of The Indispensable Conversation.    

Join the conversation as we confront this critically important question:    

Does human creativity matter when data analytics dictates our every move?

Mar 25, 202233:11
Tommy Breedlove - Do our origin stories really matter?

Tommy Breedlove - Do our origin stories really matter?

Do our origin stories really matter?    

This is the question featured on this episode of The Indispensable  Conversation with my guest Tommy Breedlove.    

Tommy Breedlove is an Atlanta-based business, relationship, and mindset  coach who is a regular featured keynote speaker at global events. He is  also the author of the book Legendary, a Wall Street Journal and USA  TODAY Best Seller which provides a playbook to help lead a truly  Legendary life.    Indeed, Tommy's purpose is to empower people to live their best life,  which makes him the perfect guest for this episode of The Indispensable  Conversation.    

Join the conversation as we confront this critically important question:

Do our origin stories really matter?

Mar 18, 202231:55
Erik Swoope -- Does our self-talk make any difference at all?

Erik Swoope -- Does our self-talk make any difference at all?

Does our self-talk make any difference at all?    

This is the question featured on this episode of The Indispensable  Conversation with my guest Erik Swoope.    

Erik spent 4 years playing Tight End for the Indianapolis Colts and  rounded-out his NFL career with stints with both the Las Vegas Raiders  & San Francisco 49ers.  Quite an accomplishment for a person who  went to college on a basketball scholarship and never played organized  football until joining the professional ranks!     

Today, Erik is the Head of Sports Partnerships at Heroic, a social  training platform built to make people perform at their best.    Erik's ability to relentlessly pursue growth and accomplishment makes  him the perfect guest for this episode of The Indispensable  Conversation.    

Join the conversation as we confront this critically important question:

Does our self-talk make any difference at all?

Mar 11, 202233:52
Jim Hotaling - How do you summon the courage to lead when lives are on the line? (Special Ukraine Conflict Edition)

Jim Hotaling - How do you summon the courage to lead when lives are on the line? (Special Ukraine Conflict Edition)

How do you summon the courage to lead when lives are on the line?  

With the Russian military attack of Ukraine on the tops of our minds, this question has never been more relevant.    It is the question that I pose to my guest, James Hotaling, MSL, on this special edition of The Indispensable Conversation.  

Jim serves as Head of Leadership Development & Assessment at N2Growth.  But, it is Jim's 20+ years of experience within U.S. Special Forces that makes him the perfect guest for this episode of The Indispensable Conversation.  

Join us for this special episode of The Indispensable Conversation as we confront this crucial question:  How do you summon the courage to lead when lives are on the line?

Mar 05, 202231:23
Brant Cooper - Has the time come to quiet our egos?

Brant Cooper - Has the time come to quiet our egos?

Has the time come to quiet our egos?    

This is the question on this episode of The Indispensable Conversation  with my guest Brant Cooper.    

Brant is a New York Times bestselling author and well-known business  advisor. Brant travels the globe speaking with business leaders about  how to discover and create new value and about empowering individuals to  make the change they want to see in the world. His unique take on  leadership mindset makes him the perfect guest for this episode of The  Indispensable Conversation.    

Join us for in this conversation as we confront this critically important question:

Has the time come to quiet our egos?

Feb 25, 202230:25
Verity Craft - Is ageism today's dirty, little business secret?

Verity Craft - Is ageism today's dirty, little business secret?

Is ageism today's dirty, little business secret?     

This is the question on this episode of The Indispensable Conversation  with my guest Verity Craft.    

Verity is the General Manager and Storyteller at Intelligent Ink located  in Auckland, New Zealand. Her focus is helping business leaders become  thought leaders to enhance their impact and authority.    As a younger business leader and an advisor to clients often older than  her, Verity is a perfect guest to explore this topic with me.    

Join us for the conversation as we confront this critically important question:

Is ageism today's dirty, little business secret?

Feb 18, 202233:29
Todd Cherches - Should we always believe what we see?

Todd Cherches - Should we always believe what we see?

Should we always believe what we see?  

This is the question on this episode of The Indispensable Conversation with my guest Todd Cherches.  

Todd is the CEO at BigBlueGumball, a member of the MG100 and author of “VisuaLeadership.”  

His focus on adding the visual to leadership makes him the perfect guest to explore this important question with me.  

Listen now!

Jan 30, 202231:60
Nancy Halpern - Should businesses become actively involved in the cultural debates of the day?

Nancy Halpern - Should businesses become actively involved in the cultural debates of the day?

Should businesses become actively involved in the cultural debates of the day?  

This is the question on this episode of The Indispensable Conversation with my guest Nancy Halpern.  

Nancy is a well-known keynote speaker, thought leader and host of The Political IQ podcast.  While her podcast focuses on managing office politics, Nancy consults in the workplace dynamics space, where cultural debates of the day often impact business performance. 

This makes her the perfect guest to explore this important issue with me.

Jan 11, 202231:27
Mandy Morris - Are we wired to handle this much continuous uncertainty?

Mandy Morris - Are we wired to handle this much continuous uncertainty?

It is in the spirit of #WorldMentalHealthDay (recognized on October 10th) that I offer this week’s special episode of The Indispensable Conversation, where I explore this essential question with my guest Mandy Morris, LPC. 

Mandy is a well-known Corporate Psychologist, Speaker and Season 2 Mental Health Support Advisor on 4 Days to Save the World TV Series.  As you might already know, the overall objective of World Mental Health Day is to raise awareness of mental health issues around the world and to mobilize efforts in support of mental health.  

The Day provides an opportunity for all business leaders and any stakeholders working on mental health issues to talk about their work, and what more needs to be done to make mental health care a reality for people worldwide.  

This makes Mandy the absolute "right guest" to explore the "Mental health side of managing uncertainty" issue with me.

Dec 07, 202133:07
Eugene Frazier - Is It Diversity and Inclusion or Adversity and Delusion?

Eugene Frazier - Is It Diversity and Inclusion or Adversity and Delusion?

If you want diversity and inclusion in the workplace, you need to promote and hire differently.

It is really that simple.

I  have worked with clients in transforming their company cultures for nearly 30 years. Diversity and inclusion continues to be a stumbling  block for many. Why? The fact remains that people hire other people that look, think, and behave like them. It seems that no amount of training  or awareness sessions is going to change this reality. Rather, we must  decide to deliberately change whom we hire and promote.

Eugene Frazier is absolutely the "right guest" to explore the "Diversity and Inclusion" issue with me on this episode of The Indispensable Conversation. 

Besides being the Co-Founder of Courageous Leadership, a member of the MG-100 and on the Forbes Coaches Council. Eugene is a diversity and inclusion expert with nearly 30 years of experience in the space.  

Check-out this honest conversation about diversity and inclusion between two guys from two different races.


Nov 15, 202132:52
Diana Wu David: What will work life look like in 2031?

Diana Wu David: What will work life look like in 2031?

That's just 10 years from now! 

This question is about the future of work. It's a question about the professional work settings that today's 6th Grade Middle School students will face when they graduate from college? If innovation and technology continues to rule how work is done, are we heading towards a business world with few rules, one where an budding market of specialists and niche players emerge and rule the day? Do we expect that large corporations, thirsty for highly productive human assets,  push past the limits of human ability by investing in augmentation technology, medication and implants -- just to give their people the edge?

We explore these questions with my guest Diana Wu David on this episode of The Indispensable Conversation.

Diana started her career working on high level strategy as a management consultant and as an assistant to Dr. Henry Kissinger at Kissinger Associates. She is also a former Financial Times executive, author of Future Proof: Reinventing Work in an Age of Acceleration and an adjunct professor at Columbia Business School’s EMBA Global Asia.

Diana is absolutely the "right guest" to explore the "Future of Work" issue with me.

Nov 15, 202133:08
Paul Falcone: Is the War for Talent Fake News?

Paul Falcone: Is the War for Talent Fake News?

While the pandemic has left people sick, tired, exhausted, and rattled. It has also upended their notions of what work should look like. 

The Great Resignation continues to grab headlines as different work arrangements are taking shape around the globe, including hybrid, remote, 4 day workweek and 25 hour week, to name a few.

Should top leaders be worried?

We explore these questions, and more, on this episode of The Indispensable Conversation with my guest, the CHRO to the Stars, Paul Falcone.

Paul is the Chief Human Resources Officer at Motion Picture and Television Fund & Bestselling Author with HarperCollins Leadership. Paul is also a regular contributor to HR Magazine and a long-term adjunct faculty member in UCLA School of Business & Management.

It is this resume that makes Peter the "right guest" to explore the "War for Talent" issue with me.


Nov 15, 202132:04
Peter Winick: Do thought leaders have an obligation to help other thought leaders?

Peter Winick: Do thought leaders have an obligation to help other thought leaders?

I explore this question on this episode of The Indispensable Conversation with my guest Peter Winick.    

Peter is the Founder and CEO, Thought Leadership Leverage. He is what many consider a "Thought Leader Whisperer" bringing the best out in his thought leadership clients.    

It is this reputation that makes Peter the "right guest" to explore the issue of thought leadership obligations.

As for me, I define a thought leader as one motivated by the need to contribute to the betterment of leadership thinking, by that definition, it would seem that a true thought leader has a duty to promote great ideas, even if those ideas are not there own.

Additionally, if you're like me and are of the mindset that we live a life of abundance, then, of course, thought leaders should help other thought leaders -- there's plenty of management consulting and coaching work to go around.  

However, if your worldview is one marked by scarcity, you likely believe that others must lose for you to win.

Listen-in as we debate this provocative subject.

Nov 15, 202132:14
Dr. Oleg Konovalov: Have We Lost The Art of Thinking?

Dr. Oleg Konovalov: Have We Lost The Art of Thinking?

In the world of Google, our minds are constantly being bombarded by data, and we’re forced to interpret it in real-time with no time to synthesize and reflect. What effect does that have on our thinking?

What about critical thinking? Have we lost the ability to separate fact from opinion, as result?

Experts suggest that we are wired to unknowingly spin everything to avoid any degree of dissonance.

I wonder, have we lost the art of thinking.

I explore this question on this episode of The Indispensable Conversation with my guest Dr. Oleg Konovalov. He is a member of Marshall Goldsmith 100 Coaches, the Thinkers50 and is the author of The Vision Code.     

Because he writes about the future and the importance of business vision, Oleg is the "right guest" to explore this important question with me.

Tune-in, if you dare to know...    



Nov 15, 202131:16
Harry Kraemer, Jr. - Should We Care About Decency in Leadership Within corporate America?

Harry Kraemer, Jr. - Should We Care About Decency in Leadership Within corporate America?

Being a consultant who does a ton of work in the culture change and organizational design and development space, I think decency counts -- a lot! 

Additionally, I think it's one of the characteristics that is all too often forgotten when times get tough. Given where we have been over that past couple of years, the question of decency's importance in business is worth some further examination.

My guest for this episode of The Indispensable Conversation is the incomparable Harry Kraemer, Jr., the retired chairman and CEO of Baxter International Inc., a multi-billion-dollar global healthcare company and a professor of management and strategy at Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management, where he teaches in the MBA and the Executive MBA programs.

Having to deal with so many ethical questions and challenges over his tenure as the top leader of tens of thousands of his employees worldwide, Harry is the absolutely "right" person to talk with about the importance of decency in leadership.

Nov 15, 202137:06
Elia Gourgouris: Should Happy Be The Goal?

Elia Gourgouris: Should Happy Be The Goal?

Why do we still feel empty, when we live in abundance?

Why is depression on the increase, when we are awash with information on how to be happy?

A new happiness industry has been sprouting fast to keep up with consumers’ insatiable demand for programs and prescriptions on how to experience authentic, ultimate, and lasting happiness, is it possible that the present happiness craze may be partially responsible for our unhappiness?

"Should Happy Be The Goal?" is the question that I ask my guest Elia Gourgouris, Ph.D. in this episode of The Indispensable Conversation.

Elia is the perfect guest to tackle this question with me. He is the president of The Happiness Center and a Best-Selling Author of books on Happiness & Corporate Wellness.

Listen in as we confront this essential question of our times.

Nov 15, 202131:09
Rhett Power - Is A Leader’s Pursuit Of Celebrity Good For Business?

Rhett Power - Is A Leader’s Pursuit Of Celebrity Good For Business?

People with an overriding desire to be widely known to strangers are different from those who primarily covet wealth and influence. Their fame-seeking behavior appears rooted in a desire for social acceptance, a longing for the existential reassurance promised by wide recognition. 

My question to my guest Rhett power on this episode of The Indispensable Conversation is this: Is it good for business?

Rhett is an executive Coach, Forbes Columnist and a Season 1 Cast Member of 4 Days  to Save the World (TV Series). This makes him the perfect guest to discuss the topic.

Think headline seekers like Bezos, Musk and Branson and compare them to Buffett, Brin and Balmer -- they're all billionaires only some seek the spotlight. 

Nov 15, 202130:58
Dave Summers - Is Today's Misinformation Culture Toxic to Businesses?

Dave Summers - Is Today's Misinformation Culture Toxic to Businesses?

This is the question posed to my guest, Dave Summers on this episode of The Indispensable Conversation.

Dave is founder of Pine Mountain Digital. He is absolutely the right person to have on the show to discuss this provocative question with me. He is a digital media producer/coach/animator that creates all kinds of business podcasts, interactive web-events and irreverent video-blogs for business audiences around the globe. 

As you likely know, the misinformation effect refers to the tendency for post-event information to interfere with the memory of the original event. Researchers have shown that the introduction of even relatively subtle information following an event can have a dramatic effect on how people remember that event.

Listen is as we discuss how the rapid spread of misinformation is undermining trust in business and in society at large.

Nov 15, 202127:08