#122 - Authentic Leadership and Critical Communication Skills with Dan Owolabi

Being “one of the guys” has always been seen as an achievement. A recognition of having made it. Oftentimes, ‘guy’ related phrases are thrown around, with the assumption that the noun covers the entire gender spectrum, just like most dictionaries define it.    But just who are the guys?   And why are we all forced to fit in as "one of the guys"?   Emily Nichols, Chief Connection Officer at Connect Better Inc., is on a mission to challenge the status quo by educating us on the importance of using inclusive language in the workplace. Through her experiences in never being able to meet the "guy" criteria in male-dominated fields, Emily offers valuable insights into how our language and physical work environments can perpetuate gender inequities.   On this episode of The Workplace Communication Podcast, Emily shares her experiences and expertise on the changes we can all make in our use of language to foster a more equitable and supportive work environment.    Leadership tips you won’t want to miss:  🎙️ Embracing inclusive language to create a supportive work culture 🎙️ Recognizing and addressing microaggressions in everyday interactions 🎙️ Advocating for gender-neutral job company policies 🎙️ Fostering open dialogue about inclusion and diversity within your team   Speaking from the stage or the factory floor, Emily Nichols nudges technical people to embrace their human skills, so they can become better problem solvers, team players, and leaders.   If you’re looking to foster a more inclusive team while questioning the status quo, then this episode is for you!   If you’ve enjoyed this episode, please be sure to subscribe and leave a review.     🎧 Listen to the episode here: https://lindsaylapaquette.com/emily-nichols/   For a full written transcript of the episode, please see the show notes at the link above.    Emily Nichols’s contact information: Website LinkedIn YouTube Facebook Twitter/X Instagram My TEDx talk Recommended book    Lindsay’s contact information:  To book a discovery call  E-mail Website Free e-course: Free Yourself from Workplace Confrontation and Conflict LinkedIn  Previous podcast episodes  

From navigating a farm restaurant job as a teenager to leading soldiers in combat during his mid-20s with the British and Canadian armies, and eventually diving into the public service and corporate world, Phil Jewell has explored a multitude of leadership styles. Each chapter of his career has taught him something unique, forming the foundation of his belief in becoming an irrelevant leader.    After the pandemic, Phil took a step back to reassess his life’s purpose, combining insights from his diverse experiences as a soldier, restaurant worker, spouse, and father. This introspection led him to challenge conventional beliefs, as he discovered that true leadership is more focused on empowering others to make decisions and thrive independently.    On this episode of The Workplace Communication Podcast, we’re talking with Phil Jewell, Founder, Impact Leadership Development and Coaching at Impact Leadership about the concept of becoming an irrelevant leader. Phil explains how leaders can foster trust, delegation, and empowerment within their teams, ensuring that the team can thrive even in their absence.    Leadership tips you won’t want to miss:    🎙️ Embracing servant leadership by prioritizing the growth of your team   🎙️ Building trust and psychological safety to foster team autonomy   🎙️ Letting go of your ego to create space for your team to thrive   🎙️ Encouraging team accountability by supporting and trusting their decisions   Passionate lifelong learner with a focus on leadership. Drawing from diverse experiences including military leadership roles, academic instruction, and public service executive positions. Led soldiers in combat in my mid-twenties and served in leadership capacities in both the British and Canadian armies, engaging with various cultures worldwide. Acknowledging flaws, daily mistakes, and past failures, I am committed to giving back and sharing insights to help others learn from my experiences.   If you’re looking to explore the concept of irrelevance in leadership, then this episode is for you!   If you’ve enjoyed this episode, please be sure to subscribe and leave a review.     🎧 Listen to the episode here: https://lindsaylapaquette.com/podcast/    For a full written transcript of the episode, please see the show notes at the link above.    Phil Jewell’s contact information: Website LinkedIn YouTube Instagram   Lindsay’s contact information:  To book a discovery call  E-mail Website Free e-course: Free Yourself from Workplace Confrontation and Conflict LinkedIn  Previous podcast episodes  

Leading a team where the focus on humanity and results seamlessly coexists may seem like an unattainable goal, doesn't it? For many leaders, striking that balance between driving performance and prioritizing their team's well-being is a daily struggle. So, how can you keep your team productive and engaged without neglecting either aspect?   Pierre Battah, an award-winning author and workplace leadership specialist, steps into this delicate terrain, offering insights honed through years of experience. With a background encompassing HR management, consulting, and academia, Pierre focuses on bridging the gap between people management and achieving exceptional outcomes.   On this episode of The Workplace Communication Podcast, Pierre shares practical tips on how leaders can engage employees, maintain work-life balance, and achieve outstanding results without sacrificing one for the other. Join us as we explore strategies to foster a culture that values both people and results.   Leadership tips you won’t want to miss:    🎙️ Cultivating adaptability and resilience 🎙️ Recognizing and leveraging individual strengths 🎙️ Building strong relationships to enhance performance 🎙️ Implementing structured check-ins for better engagement   Pierre Battah is an award-winning author and workplace leadership specialist. He is a long-time workplace columnist for CBC/Radio-Canada, a TEDx presenter, a former senior manager in HR and was previously an associate professor in management at Mount Allison University.  Pierre holds an MBA and professional designations in HR, management consulting and as a professional speaker.  His book “Humanity at Work, Leading for Better Relationships and Results” won gold at the 2020 Nautilus Book Awards in the US. He recently received Rotary International’s highest distinction, the Paul Harris Award for outstanding contribution to the community.     If you’re looking to harmonize people management with achieving exceptional results, then this episode is for you!   If you’ve enjoyed this episode, please be sure to subscribe and leave a review.     🎧 Listen to the episode here: https://lindsaylapaquette.com/pierre-battah/    For a full written transcript of the episode, please see the show notes at the link above.    Pierre Battah’s contact information: Website Book LinkedIn   Lindsay’s contact information: To book a discovery call  E-mail Website Free e-course: Free Yourself from Workplace Confrontation and Conflict LinkedIn  Previous podcast episodes  

Marathons on their own are tough. But imagine running a marathon with someone else's heart and lungs. Mark Black is a living testament to the incredible power of resilience. Born with a congenital heart defect, Mark underwent life-saving open-heart surgery at just one day old. His journey of resilience began even before he took his first steps.    Against all odds, Mark not only survived but thrived, becoming the only man in history to complete a marathon with another person's heart and lungs. His remarkable story serves as a poignant reminder of the human spirit's capacity to triumph over adversity.    On this episode of The Workplace Communication Podcast, we’re talking with Mark Black, Speaker, Author, Coach at Resurgo Training Solutions Inc. about the roadmap to building inner resilience and its profound impact on personal and professional development. Mark's compelling narrative offers invaluable lessons on embracing adversity, fostering adaptability, and cultivating resilience in the face of life's trials.   Leadership tips you won’t want to miss:  🎙️ Embracing challenges as opportunities for growth 🎙️ Fostering adaptability by cultivating a growth mindset 🎙️ Recognizing the power of resilience in overcoming obstacles 🎙️ Cultivating a supportive work environment that nurtures resilience 🎙️ Empowering your team to embrace change and navigate adversity with resilience   Mark Black is a resilience expert, speaker, author, and coach. He is the only man in history to run a marathon using someone else's heart and lungs.    If you’re looking for inspiration to overcome life's challenges with determination, then this episode is for you!   If you’ve enjoyed this episode, please be sure to subscribe and leave a review.     🎧 Listen to the episode here: https://lindsaylapaquette.com/podcast/    For a full written transcript of the episode, please see the show notes at the link above.    Mark Black’s contact information: Website Book LinkedIn Facebook Instagram   Lindsay’s contact information:  To book a discovery call  E-mail Website Free e-course: Free Yourself from Workplace Confrontation and Conflict LinkedIn  Previous podcast episodes

On this episode of The Workplace Communication Podcast, we’re talking with Watchen Nyanue Hampton, Founder & CEO at I Choose the Ladder, LLC about addressing the corporate culture "elephant in the room." Discover how to foster authentic dialogue, elevate accountability, and prioritize people over metrics to cultivate a healthier organizational environment.  Leadership tips you won’t want to miss:  Fostering a culture of open dialogue that transcends traditional boundaries Elevating accountability to foster a culture of responsibility Prioritizing the well-being of your team over metrics to promote a healthy workplace culture Actively listening to your team to uncover hidden insights and cultivate a culture of trust and transparency Watchen Nyanue Hampton is an expert talent management strategist, speaker, and facilitator who helps Fortune 500 companies keep their employees from quitting. If you’re looking to revolutionize your approach to corporate culture and leadership, then this episode is for you! If you’ve enjoyed this episode, please be sure to subscribe and leave a review.   Listen to the episode here: https://lindsaylapaquette.com/podcast/  For a full written transcript of the episode, please see the show notes at the link above.  Watchen Nyanue Hampton’s contact information: Website LinkedIn Instagram Lindsay’s contact information: To book a discovery call  E-mail Website Free e-course: Free Yourself from Workplace Confrontation and Conflict LinkedIn  Previous podcast episodes

Many times, we find ourselves on the wild roller coaster called life - navigating twists, turns, and unexpected loops along the way. We push through the chaos, driven by the need to prove our resilience and greatness, whatever the cost.  After all, isn't that what resilience is all about?  We scream, cry, laugh, and hold on tight, eagerly awaiting the moment when the ride comes to a peaceful stop, allowing us to finally catch our breath.  But what if there was another way? What if we could find strength in vulnerability? As a Certified Movement Professional and Owner of Inspired to Move, Ashley Farrar is the ultimate guru of finding both meaning and humour in life's absurdities. She brings a refreshing perspective to the table, reminding us that it’s okay to get down from that ride if it no longer brings us joy.  With her contagious energy and relatable anecdotes, Ashley shows us that resilience isn't about forcing ourselves to endure the chaos - it's about embracing the messy, beautiful journey of life with open arms. On this episode of The Workplace Communication Podcast, I chat with my younger sis, Ashley, about the hilarious mishaps and unexpected turns that shape our journey through life. From surviving bike accidents and brain injuries, to navigating the twists and turns of neurodiversity, Ashley's story is as relatable as it is inspiring. Get ready to laugh, learn, and maybe even snort with laughter as we uncover the secrets to resilience and finding joy in life's chaos. Embracing the balance between perseverance and self-compassion Fostering open communication and empathy to support team members facing adversity Cultivating a workplace culture that prioritizes holistic well-being and mental health Encouraging vulnerability and authenticity in leadership to inspire resilience among team members Encouraging your team to embrace imperfection and celebrate progress over perfection Leadership tips you won’t want to miss:  As a Certified Movement Professional, Ashley believes that movement should be enjoyable, that the mind and body are interrelated, and that all bodies are good bodies. She creates space in her classes for practicing self-compassion, increasing body awareness, and finding ease through movement. A neurodivergent mom of three, Ashley is passionate about challenging the status quo, loves to ski, read, and spend time in nature.  If you're seeking inspiration to overcome life's challenges and cultivate resilience in your personal and professional journey, then this episode is for you!  If you’ve enjoyed this episode, please be sure to subscribe and leave a review.   Listen to the episode: https://lindsaylapaquette.com/podcast/  For a full written transcript of the episode, please see the show notes at the link above.  Ashley’s contact information: Website Instagram  YouTube  Facebook Video of Ashley Farrar post-accident Lindsay’s contact information:  To book a discovery call  E-mail Website Free e-course: Free Yourself from Workplace Confrontation and Conflict LinkedIn  Previous podcast episodes

Whether or not we want to admit it, for many of us, leadership has been defined by authority and control. However, now is the time to step into the future of leadership – one where effective leadership is defined by embarking on a journey of self-discovery. One that enables you to connect deeply with yourself and your team, while also guiding others. According to Dan Owolabi, Founding Executive Director of Branches Worldwide, an authentic leader isn't someone who bosses others around, but rather someone who remains true to themselves while serving others in a similar capacity. With over two decades of leadership development experience across multiple continents, Dan brings a wealth of wisdom and practical insights to the table. On this episode of The Workplace Communication Podcast, Dan and I explore how to authenticity, cultivate effective communication, and leverage strategic transparency with your team members. It’s high time we ditch the rulebook and discover how being yourself can transform your leadership style and supercharge your team's success! Leadership tips you won’t want to miss: Engaging in active listening to foster better understanding and connection Embracing vulnerability as a strength to build trust and authenticity within your team Recognizing and valuing diverse perspectives to promote inclusivity and innovation Cultivating empathy to enhance communication and foster stronger relationships Leveraging strategic transparency with your team members Dan Owolabi is the Founding Executive Director of Branches Worldwide, a fast-growing non-profit dedicated to making long-term investments in high-impact Christian entrepreneurs around the world. With over 20 years of experience teaching leadership, Dan is a sought-after international keynote speaker, teaching pastor, and a member of the Global Leadership Summit teaching faculty. To date, Dan has worked with leaders in over twenty countries and four continents, helping them clarify their identity and leverage their influence to serve others.   Dan's latest book "Authentic Leadership", quickly became an Amazon #1 New Release. He holds a graduate degree from Ashland University centering on American Leadership and is completing a doctorate in Global Leadership from Fuller Theological Seminary. Dan is a teaching pastor at Grace Church in Wooster, Ohio where he lives with his wife & two daughters.  If you’re looking to enhance your leadership and communication skills while fostering a culture of authenticity, then this episode is for you! If you’ve enjoyed this episode, please be sure to subscribe and leave a review.  Listen to the episode here: https://lindsaylapaquette.com/podcast/ For a full written transcript of the episode, please see the show notes at the link above. Dan Owolabi’s contact information: Website Book LinkedIn Facebook Instagram Lindsay’s contact information: To book a discovery call E-mail Website Free e-course: Free Yourself from Workplace Confrontation and Conflict LinkedIn Previous podcast episodes

Ever tallied up the number of meetings you’ve been in since you stepped into the workforce? How many of those have dragged on endlessly, achieving next to nothing? Amidst tight deadlines, conflicting priorities and endless emails, meetings can either facilitate progress or be a total soul sucking adventure. With over two decades of experience in nonprofit and community development, Jason Doiron is here to guide us through the chaos. Jason guides us as we uncover the secrets behind why effective communication is the key to untangling the mess and unlocking the potential of diverse teams. On this episode of The Workplace Communication Podcast, Jason Doiron, Cocreator at O Stratégies, talks to us about how to leverage your time and efficiency in meetings by consciously crafting meetings to serve the purpose you most need, at each different point in time. Say goodbye to wasted time, watch-checking, and doodling, and say hello to better conversations that will lead to innovation, clarity, and stronger team dynamics. Leadership tips you won’t want to miss: Designing meeting structures that align with desired outcomes Creating space for creativity and innovation in team meetings Balancing structured and organic conversation formats Leveraging diverse methodologies for idea generation and decision-making Jason has over 20 years of experience in the nonprofit and community development world. He focused his academic studies in language and communications studies at the Université de Moncton. He is a practitioner of Art of Hosting and Applied Improv and has held positions in many nonprofit organizations focused on youth, arts and culture, capacity building and social innovation.  His strong and adaptable skills as group facilitator helps him to guide groups in finding clarity, common purpose and work better together in meaningful ways, creating spaces for learning, innovation and co-creation. Jason is co-owner at O Stratégies, a consulting firm specializing in organizational strategy, leadership and social innovation. If you’re looking to harness the power of conversation to drive meaningful change and collaboration in your workplace, then this episode is for you! If you’ve enjoyed this episode, please be sure to subscribe and leave a review.  Listen to the episode here: https://lindsaylapaquette.com/podcast/ For a full written transcript of the episode, please see the show notes at the link above. Jason Doiron’s contact information: Website Instagram LinkedIn Lindsay’s contact information: To book a discovery call E-mail Website Free e-course: Free Yourself from Workplace Confrontation and Conflict LinkedIn Previous podcast episodes  

Are you ever spending your profits on resolving conflicts that could have been solved with just a thoughtful 5-minute conversation early on?   Mediating conflicts often results in the loss of team efficiency, alongside and a significant financial investment. The challenge of balancing peace, productivity, and profit in the workplace is real.   As a Workplace Relationships Expert, seasoned professional speaker and coach, Penny Tremblay, helps teams and individuals through workplace relationship complexities, not only addressing surface-level issues but also uncovering the root causes of conflicts. This approach fosters an environment where communication flows effortlessly, creating a path to sustainable workplace harmony.   On this episode of The Workplace Communication Podcast, Penny shares elements of her Sandbox System, so you can unlock the secrets to a workplace where peace, productivity and profit can coexist harmoniously.   Leadership tips you won’t want to miss:   ️ Cultivating a workplace where open communication is key to building a positive atmosphere ️ Resolving conflicts promptly by addressing issues head-on ️ Actively listening to your team to foster a culture of empathy and collaboration ️ Recognizing the power of empowerment in the workplace ️ Embracing diversity to nurture an inclusive work environment   Penny Tremblay is the founder of Tremblay Leadership Center and the Workplace Sandbox System™. Organizations save millions of dollars by helping their teams manage conflict from the inside out. Harvard training and years of experience bring fresh concepts and stories to inspire productivity and peace in the workplace sandbox.   If you're looking to create a workplace where peace, productivity, and profit coexist seamlessly, then this episode is for you!   If you’ve enjoyed this episode, please be sure to subscribe and leave a review.     Listen to the episode here: https://lindsaylapaquette.com/podcast/   For a full written transcript of the episode, please see the show notes at the link above.   Penny Tremblay’s contact information:   Website Book LinkedIn YouTube Facebook Instagram   Lindsay’s contact information:   To book a discovery call E-mail Website Free e-course: Free Yourself from Workplace Confrontation and Conflict LinkedIn Previous podcast episodes

  In a world where work often feels like a routine, Mark Mears, Founder & Chief Growth Officer at LEAF Growth Ventures brings a refreshing perspective. One that focuses on the transformative power of LOVE in leadership – learning to listen, observe, value and empower.   On this episode of The Workplace Communication Podcast, Mark brings his extensive background in conscious capitalism and purposeful growth to reshape how leaders can create meaningful and fulfilling environments.    Join us as we discuss how to reimagine the workplace together - Let's reimagine the workplace together – where purpose meets productivity and leadership is all about love.   Leadership tips you won’t want to miss:   ️Fostering a workplace culture that values individuality and diversity ️Actively listening to your team's needs to create a more engaged workforce ️Recognizing the whole person – not just the employee – to build genuine connections and relationships ️Cultivating a leadership style centered around LOVE – Listen, Observe, Value, and Empower   Mark A. Mears is a #1 Best Selling author, keynote speaker, consultant, and visionary business leader. He has a significant track record of building stakeholder value—driving innovation and profitable growth among world-class, high-profile brands such as PepsiCo/Pizza Hut, McDonald’s, Frito-Lay, JCPenney, NBCUniversal, and The Cheesecake Factory.Today, Mark serves as Founder and Chief Growth Officer for LEAF Growth Ventures, LLC—a consulting firm inspiring individuals, teams, and organizations to find purpose in fulfilling their true growth potential while making a positive, lasting difference in the world.   Mark has just released his new book titled, The Purposeful Growth Revolution: 4 Ways to Grow from Leader to Legacy Builder. Mark is also a member of the Senior Leader Network within Conscious Capitalism, Inc., a global organization whose mission he shares: Elevating Humanity Through Business.   If you’re looking to foster a workplace where love leads, and individuals thrive, then this episode is for you!   If you’ve enjoyed this episode, please be sure to subscribe and leave a review.    Listen to the episode here: https://lindsaylapaquette.com/podcast/   For a full written transcript of the episode, please see the show notes at the link above.   Mark Mears’s contact information:   Website Book LinkedIn Purposeful Growth Self-Assessment   Lindsay’s contact information:   To book a discovery call E-mail Website Free e-course: Free Yourself from Workplace Confrontation and Conflict LinkedIn Previous podcast episodes