SPOS #936 – Dan Pontefract On Leaders As Coaches

Welcome to episode #937 of Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast. Here it is: Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast - Episode #937. Life is a negotiation... and every one of us should be thinking about how we can get better at it. Scott Walker is a Sunday Times bestselling author and a keynote speaker on negotiation, communications, leadership and resilience. Scott is one of the world’s most experienced kidnap-for-ransom negotiators, offering discreet advice to top corporate, political, and NGO leaders to manage and recover from all sorts of real-life threats. With over three hundred cases resolved worldwide, he now helps clients develop resilient and agile leadership skills to navigate uncertainty and conflict, while consistently delivering top performance. He also trains leaders and teams to master communication, influence, and conflict resolution.In our conversation, Scott dives into negotiation strategies and techniques, pulling from his new book, Order Out Of Chaos - Win Every Negotiation, Thrive In Adversity, And Become A World-Class Communicator. He emphasizes that negotiation is everywhere in life and underscores the critical role of trust, especially in hostage situations. Scott breaks down the challenges of dealing with irrational actors, the importance of saving face in negotiations, and why maintaining long-term relationships matters. We also touch on managing stress and anxiety, emotional self-regulation, and understanding one's own emotions before entering a negotiation. Scott shares stories from his hostage negotiation days, highlighting empathy, trust-building, and assertiveness. We also explore the complexities of kidnapping negotiations and the unique challenges of cyber extortion. His book, Order Out Of Chaos isn’t just about high-stakes negotiations - it's a guide to becoming a top-notch communicator. Scott's book, built on years of experience and research, offers simple, proven strategies to handle high-pressure moments, practice proactive listening, develop emotional intelligence, and manage conflict. Whether you're negotiating a deal at work or navigating everyday situations (like with your kids!), the techniques in this book will help you communicate effectively and get the results you want. Enjoy the conversation... Running time: 1:08:246. Hello from beautiful Montreal. Subscribe over at Apple Podcasts. Please visit and leave comments on the blog - Six Pixels of Separation. Feel free to connect to me directly on Facebook here: Mitch Joel on Facebook. Check out ThinkersOne. or you can connect on LinkedIn. ...or on Twitter. Here is my conversation with Scott Walker. Order Out Of Chaos - Win Every Negotiation, Thrive In Adversity, And Become A World-Class Communicator. Follow Scott on LinkedIn. Follow Scott on X. This week's music: David Usher 'St. Lawrence River'. Takeaways Negotiation is a part of everyday life, and it is important to recognize and improve our negotiation skills. Trust is crucial in hostage negotiations, and third-party intermediaries can play a significant role in building trust. Saving face and maintaining pride are important considerations in negotiations, as they can impact the outcome and long-term relationships. Time can be a powerful negotiation strategy, allowing for emotional regulation and the exploration of options. Managing stress and anxiety is essential in negotiations, as they can impact decision-making and outcomes. Emotional self-regulation is crucial in negotiation, and understanding one's own emotions before entering a negotiation is essential. Building trust and empathy are key elements in successful negotiations, whether in hostage situations or business deals. Kidnapping negotiations involve balancing empathy and assertiveness, managing expectations, and developing a battle rhythm. The cyber extortion industry presents unique challenges, and companies must weigh the risks and benefits of negotiation. Difficult situations can be opportunities for personal growth and resilience, and reframing the meaning of challenges can lead to a more fulfilling life. Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction and Background 00:30 - Negotiation in Everyday Life 03:08 - Trust in Hostage Negotiations 05:17 - Negotiating with Irrational Actors 08:06 - Saving Face and Maintaining Pride 09:28 - Negotiating in Geopolitical Conflicts 11:33 - Time as a Negotiation Strategy 12:49 - Expanding the Pie: Win-Win Negotiations 16:25 - Addressing Concerns and Criticisms 20:51 - Short-Termism vs. Long-Term Success 26:14 - Negotiating with Nefarious Intentions 31:08 - Simplifying Negotiations 32:03 - Managing Stress and Anxiety in Negotiations 32:07 - Emotional Self-Regulation in Negotiation 36:15 - The Importance of Negotiating with Yourself 37:02 - Lessons from the First Professional Negotiation 44:04 - The Complexity of Kidnapping Negotiations 49:25 - The Business of Kidnapping for Ransom 53:07 - The Aftermath of Hostage Situations 55:46 - The Unique Challenges of Cyber Extortion 01:02:14 - Finding Resilience and Meaning in Difficult Situations

Welcome to episode #936 of Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast. Here it is: Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast - Episode #936. My friend, Dan Pontefract, is a renowned leadership strategist, author, and keynote speaker with over two decades of experience in senior executive roles at companies like SAP, TELUS, and Business Objects. His focus has always been on corporate culture change, leadership development, employee experience, and overall performance improvement. Since leaving the world of full-time gigs in 2018, Dan has worked with organizations worldwide, including Salesforce, Amgen, Nestlé, and the City of Toronto, and countless others. He has a knack for turning leaders and corporate cultures into a competitive advantage, believing firmly that the future of work is now. In this conversation, Dan shares his insights on the evolution from work-life balance to work-life flow, emphasizing the need for a more fluid integration of work and personal life. We discuss how economic factors like the death of the middle class and shareholder primacy has reshaped work-life balance. Dan highlights the generational shifts in perspectives, with younger generations craving greater personalization and flexibility in their work lives. He stresses the importance of setting and respecting boundaries to maintain a healthy work-life balance, the role of culture in shaping this balance, and the potential impacts of gamifying work. Dan’s latest book, Work-Life Bloom - How to Nurture A Team That Flourishes, delves into the intricate dance between our professional and personal lives. Drawing parallels to how a flower needs the right mix of sunlight, water, and nutrients to thrive, Dan argues that team members need the right mix of work-life factors to create a fulfilling existence. Through global research, interviews, and personal anecdotes, he offers practical solutions for leaders and organizations to foster environments where teams can truly bloom. Dan is also the author of Lead Care Win, Open To Think, The Purpose Effect and Flat Army. Enjoy the conversation... Running time: 59:06. Hello from beautiful Montreal. Subscribe over at Apple Podcasts. Please visit and leave comments on the blog - Six Pixels of Separation. Feel free to connect to me directly on Facebook here: Mitch Joel on Facebook. Check out ThinkersOne. or you can connect on LinkedIn. ...or on Twitter. Here is my conversation with Dan Pontefract. Work-Life Bloom - How to Nurture A Team That Flourishes. Lead Care Win. Open To Think. The Purpose Effect. Flat Army. You can also have Dan pop in to your meeting and more at ThinkersOne. Follow Dan on LinkedIn. Follow Dan on X. This week's music: David Usher 'St. Lawrence River'. Takeaways Work-life balance has evolved into work-life flow, emphasizing the need for a more fluid integration of work and personal life. Economic factors, such as the death of the middle class and shareholder primacy, have had a significant impact on work-life balance. Generational differences exist in work-life balance perspectives, with younger generations seeking greater personalization and flexibility in their work. Setting and respecting boundaries is crucial for maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Culture plays a vital role in shaping work-life balance, and organizations need to consider individual needs and values. The gamification of work can have both positive and negative effects on work-life balance. In-person interactions and connections are valuable for fostering work-life balance. Integrating productivity into work-life balance is a complex challenge that requires finding ways to be productive without sacrificing personal time. Leaders should strive to be coaches, providing support, empathy, and constructive feedback to their team members. The integration of artificial intelligence in the workplace raises concerns about job security and the need for human skills that cannot be automated. Societal considerations should include addressing the struggles faced by men in the workplace and ensuring equal support and opportunities for all genders. Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction and Background 03:02 - The Shift from Work-Life Balance to Work-Life Flow 06:31 - The Impact of Economic Factors on Work-Life Balance 10:23 - The Death of the Middle Class and Its Effect on Work-Life Balance 13:08 - The Influence of Shareholder Primacy on Work-Life Balance 16:47 - Generational Differences in Work-Life Balance Perspectives 19:19 - The Personalization of Work and Its Impact on Work-Life Balance 23:57 - The Importance of Boundaries in Work-Life Balance 28:03 - The Role of Culture in Work-Life Balance 32:30 - The Gamification of Work and Its Effect on Work-Life Balance 36:25 - The Current State of Work-Life Balance 39:40 - The Importance of Respect in Work-Life Balance 43:48 - The Role of Boundaries in Work-Life Balance 46:33 - The Value of In-Person Interactions in Work-Life Balance 47:52 - Integrating Productivity into Work-Life Balance 48:21 - Leaders as Coaches 51:26 - The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Work 55:15 - Societal Considerations for Men in the Workplace

Here it is: Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast - Episode #935. Malissa Clark is an associate professor of industrial/organizational psychology at the University of Georgia and the brains behind the Healthy Work Lab. Known for her expertise in workaholism, burnout, and employee well-being, Malissa has made significant strides in understanding the modern work environment. Her work has been featured in top journals like the Journal of Applied Psychology, the Journal of Management and many more. In this conversation, Malissa dove into the concept of the "ideal worker" and how this can wreak havoc on work-life balance. We talked about how the pandemic has changed our approach to work, pushing the need for flexibility and remote work options into the spotlight. She shared insights on how implementing changes like shorter workweeks and better communication practices can boost productivity and employee happiness. We also touched on the critical role of government and unions in ensuring fair work practices. Malissa didn’t hold back when discussing workaholism and the rise of hustle culture. She highlighted the importance of psychological detachment from work for overall well-being and how leaders today need to manage individual needs with empathy. Her thoughts on balancing side hustles and hobbies with work were particularly enlightening, stressing that we need time for daydreaming and mental rest to foster creativity. Malissa's latest book, Never Not Working - Why The Always-On Culture Is Bad For Business - And How To Fix It, tackles the unhealthy relationship many of us have with work. In a world that praises long hours and constant connectivity, Malissa offers a deep dive into busting myths and providing strategies to break free. She explains how overwork and burnout affect both individuals and organizations, and offers practical advice on fostering a healthier work culture. Whether you’re a leader or an employee, this is a must-listen for anyone looking to reclaim their well-being and improve company performance. Enjoy the conversation... Running time: 1:01:55. Hello from beautiful Montreal. Subscribe over at Apple Podcasts. Please visit and leave comments on the blog - Six Pixels of Separation. Feel free to connect to me directly on Facebook here: Mitch Joel on Facebook. Check out ThinkersOne. or you can connect on LinkedIn. ...or on Twitter. Here is my conversation with Malissa Clark. Never Not Working - Why The Always-On Culture Is Bad For Business - And How To Fix It. Healthy Work Lab. Follow Malissa on X. Follow Malissa on LinkedIn. This week's music: David Usher 'St. Lawrence River'. Takeaways The concept of the ideal worker, who prioritizes work above everything else, can be detrimental to employee well-being and work-life balance. The pandemic has highlighted the need for a more flexible and adaptable approach to work, including remote work options. Implementing changes in the workplace, such as shorter workweeks and improved communication practices, can lead to increased productivity and employee satisfaction. Government regulations and the involvement of unions may be necessary to ensure fair and equitable work practices. Work-life balance is a challenge in the modern work environment, and the concept of a mandated 40-hour work week may not be feasible in the US. Psychological detachment from work is important for overall well-being and has been linked to positive outcomes such as work engagement and restful sleep. The rise of hustle culture has led to the monetization of hobbies and side hustles, but it is important to find a balance and avoid obsession. Leaders in the modern work environment need to manage individuals and their unique needs, which requires empathy and understanding. Taking time for boredom, daydreaming, and being alone with one's thoughts is important for creativity and well-being in a constantly connected world. Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction and Background 03:00 - The Gap Between Academic Research and Real-World Application 06:00 - The Concept of the Ideal Worker 09:00 - Balancing Work and Personal Life 11:00 - The Challenges of Remote Work 17:00 - The Changing Landscape of Work 25:00 - The Impact of the Pandemic on Work 31:00 - Reconciling Work and the Economy 42:00 - The Role of Government and Unions 43:33 - Work-Life Balance and the 40-Hour Work Week 44:31 - Identifying Workaholism and Burnout 46:58 - The Importance of Psychological Detachment from Work 47:57 - The Challenge of Constantly Thinking About Work 49:40 - The Rise of Hustle Culture 50:39 - The Individualization of Work and Leadership Challenges 51:30 - Balancing Hobbies and Side Hustles 56:24 - The Role of Leaders as Mentors and Life Coaches 57:30 - The Difficulty of Being Bored and Alone with Thoughts 59:55 - The Impact of Personal Conversations on Research

Welcome to episode #934 of Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast. Here it is: Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast - Episode #934. When it comes to management and innovation, Vijay Govindarajan (aka VG) is a true legend. VG is a name synonymous with strategy and innovation. As the Coxe Distinguished Professor at Dartmouth’s Tuck School of Business and a key player in Silicon Valley’s Mach49 incubator (prior to joining the faculty at Tuck, VG was on the faculties of Harvard Business School, Insead and the Indian Institute of Management), VG's insights are pure gold for anyone looking to push their business thinking forward. VG’s journey is impressive. From being the first Professor in Residence and Chief Innovation Consultant at General Electric to working with top management teams in over 40% of the Fortune 500, VG has seen it all. In our conversation, he breaks down the evolving definition of innovation and why it's crucial for organizations to aim high and take risks. One of his standout ideas is the fusion strategy — melding physical products with tech to create something truly remarkable (also the name of his latest book, Fusion Strategy - How Real-Time Data and AI Will Power the Industrial Future). It’s not just about having the latest gadgets but about integrating them in ways that make life better. We also tackle the topic of leadership. VG stresses that true leaders are those who can solve customer problems in real-time and build lifelong relationships. He’s a firm believer that smart data and AI are the new electricity - essential and transformative. But it's not just about having the tools... it's about how you use them. Innovation isn’t just a buzzword for VG; it’s a necessity, especially in our unpredictable world. We also talked about the impact of black swan events and how these unpredictable challenges require a new way of thinking and an openness to change. He’s all about thinking differently and pushing the boundaries to reach your true potential (see his ten-plus business books or the countless articles he’s published in the top academic journals - work like Reverse Innovation, Stop The Innovation Wars and many more). It’s about being bold, taking risks, and learning from every step along the way. VG’s practical experience and strategic mind make him a treasure trove of insights. He’s worked with industry giants like Boeing, Coca-Cola, FedEx, and Walmart, and spoken at major events like TED and the World Economic Forum at Davos. He’s a big brain with a warm heart and a passion for doing things right in business today. Enjoy the conversation... Running time: 1:06:48. Hello from beautiful Montreal. Subscribe over at Apple Podcasts. Please visit and leave comments on the blog - Six Pixels of Separation. Feel free to connect to me directly on Facebook here: Mitch Joel on Facebook. Check out ThinkersOne. or you can connect on LinkedIn. ...or on Twitter. Here is my conversation with Vijay Govindarajan. Fusion Strategy - How Real-Time Data and AI Will Power the Industrial Future. Reverse Innovation. Stop The Innovation Wars. Follow VG on LinkedIn. Follow VG on X. This week's music: David Usher 'St. Lawrence River'. Takeaways Embrace true potential and overcome risk aversion to achieve innovation. Integrate physical and tech to create better products through fusion strategy. Leverage digital technologies to transform the industrial sector. Focus on solving customer problems in real time and building lifelong relationships. Smart data and AI are the new electricity, providing immense power and potential for companies. Innovation is crucial in a world of unpredictable change, and conducting low-cost experiments at the edges of the organization can lead to strategic flexibility and adaptability. Black swan events, such as Covid 19, require leaders to think differently and embrace new ways of navigating uncertainty. The marketplace is evolving and improving our lives, with technology enabling greater connectivity and convenience. Thinking differently and continuously striving to reach one's true potential is key to personal and professional growth. Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction and Background 02:07 - The Ever-Evolving Definition of Innovation 06:36 - Overcoming Risk Aversion in Organizations 09:31 - The Impact of the Poly Crisis on Innovation 11:28 - The Potential of Digital Technologies in Business 13:20 - The Optimistic Outlook for Innovation 15:27 - Fusion Strategy: The Integration of Physical and Tech 21:21 - Digitizing the Industrial Sector 23:35 - The Role of Leadership in Embracing Innovation 26:09 - The Importance of Understanding Product in Use 28:36 - Augmented Intelligence and the Future of Work 31:24 - The Role of Policymakers in Regulating AI 36:17 - Navigating the Complexities of AI Regulation 39:30 - The Challenge of Meeting Consumer Expectations 46:27 - Solving Customer Problems in Real Time 50:19 - The Importance of Building Lifelong Customer Relationships 51:18 - The Significance and Challenges of Speed in Technology 52:39 - Smart Data and AI as the New Electricity 55:19 - Innovation in the Face of Unpredictable Change 57:35 - The Rise of Black Swan Events 58:12 - The Evolution of the Marketplace 1:00:29 - Thinking Differently and Embracing Potential

Welcome to episode #933 of Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast. Here it is: Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast - Episode #933. Let’s dive deep into the transformative insights of Steve Dennis - a strategic advisor, retail leadership expert, and bestselling author. Steve's latest book, Leaders Leap - Transforming Your Company At The Speed Of Disruption, dissects why so many transformations fail and reveals what leaders must do to keep their organizations relevant in an ever-evolving landscape. With a diverse career that includes c-suite roles at two Fortune 500 companies and his current position as President of SageBerry Consulting, Steve brings a wealth of experience to the table. First he was at Sears and then Neiman Marcus Group, where he pioneered customer insight, loyalty, and omnichannel marketing strategies, making him a sought-after voice in retail innovation. Steve underscores the urgency for leaders to aim higher and move faster to navigate a world of abundant choice and zero friction. He argues that being remarkable is not just about standing out but creating an emotional connection with customers. In an era where technology has leveled the playing field, businesses must differentiate themselves and offer value beyond price. Steve stresses the need for agility in leadership, urging leaders to understand the factors impacting their business and respond swiftly to volatility. He warns against the trap of incrementalism and highlights the importance of creating a sense of urgency and embracing change. Steve's insights are not just theoretical - they are grounded in his extensive practical experience and are vital for any leader looking to thrive in today's fast-paced business environment. He is also a Forbes senior contributor and co-host of the Remarkable Retail podcast, which amplifies the themes of his first book, Remarkable Retail - How To Win And Keep Customers In The Age Of Disruption. Enjoy the conversation... Running time: 1:03:30. Hello from beautiful Montreal. Subscribe over at Apple Podcasts. Please visit and leave comments on the blog - Six Pixels of Separation. Feel free to connect to me directly on Facebook here: Mitch Joel on Facebook. Check out ThinkersOne. or you can connect on LinkedIn. ...or on Twitter. Here is my conversation with Steve Dennis. Leaders Leap - Transforming Your Company At The Speed Of Disruption. Remarkable Retail - How To Win And Keep Customers In The Age Of Disruption. Remarkable Retail Podcast. Follow Steve on X. Follow Steve on Instagram. Follow Steve on LinkedIn. This week's music: David Usher 'St. Lawrence River'. Takeaways Being remarkable is about creating a distance between your brand and the competition, and making an emotional connection with customers. Leaders need to aim higher and move faster in order to stay relevant and avoid becoming irrelevant or extinct. Technology enables access to information and substitutes, making it crucial for businesses to differentiate themselves and provide value beyond price. Leaders must understand the factors that impact their business and be agile in responding to a volatile and uncertain environment. Creating a sense of urgency and embracing change are essential for driving innovation and staying ahead of disruption. Success anomalies can be misleading and it is important to analyze them critically and not draw general conclusions from them. Attracting and inspiring talent is crucial for the success of a company, and it is important for leaders to create a culture that values and leverages the unique gifts of their employees. Brands taking a stance on social and political issues can be a complex and risky endeavor, and leaders need to carefully consider the impact on their customers and stakeholders. Physical retail still has a role in a digital world, particularly for experiential and social shopping experiences, but it needs to evolve and provide unique value to customers. Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction and Background 02:49 - The Power of Being Remarkable 06:04 - Aiming Higher and Moving Faster 08:55 - Navigating a Volatile Business Environment 13:03 - The Role of Technology in Driving Innovation 28:48 - Analyzing Success Anomalies 30:39 - Self-Reflection and Adaptability for Leaders 39:21 - Attracting and Inspiring Talent 44:03 - Navigating Brands and Social Issues 49:20 - The Role of Acquisitions 51:08 - The Evolving Role of Physical Retail

Welcome to episode #932 of Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast. Nicholas Mattei is an Associate Professor of Computer Science at Tulane University. Nick has dedicated his career to exploring the theory and practice of artificial intelligence, with a focus on decision-making systems for both autonomous agents and humans. He’s been into AI since he was young, influenced by his mother (a program coordinator at a science center, and his father, a professor). His early fascination with computers and programming laid the foundation for a career that has spanned prestigious institutions and cutting-edge projects. Before joining Tulane University, Nick worked as a Research Staff Member at the IBM TJ Watson Research Laboratory, where he tackled complex problems in question answering, natural language inference, decision making, and the ethical implications of AI on society. Prior to his time at IBM, he contributed to the AI & Algorithmic Decision Theory Group at Data61 in Australia. His work there and his involvement in organizing workshops on computational social choice highlight his commitment to advancing AI research. He also spent time at NASA in engineering where he was responsible for the design and implementation of control systems software for multiple small satellites. All cool stuff. At Tulane, Nick is not only advancing AI research but also emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration. He works closely with the law school and sociology departments to study the societal impacts of AI. His leadership at the Tulane Center of Excellence for Community-Engaged AI demonstrates his dedication to ensuring that technological advancements benefit the wider community. Nick is passionate about education and mentorship, continually striving to inspire the next generation of AI researchers. His ability to bridge the gap between theoretical AI and practical applications makes him a valuable asset to both the academic and broader communities... and business thinkers like you. If you’re trying to understand the distinctions between traditional coding and AI, the nuances of machine learning, and the evolving landscape of AI technologies, this one is for you. Nick reflects on the challenges and opportunities presented by Generative AI, as well as his thoughts on the ethical deployment of AI systems, offering a nuanced perspective on the future of technology. His pragmatic approach to AI, coupled with his optimism about its potential to create value, provides a balanced view that is both insightful and thought-provoking at a time when we need it most. Enjoy the conversation... Running time: 1:06:08. Hello from beautiful Montreal. Subscribe over at Apple Podcasts. Please visit and leave comments on the blog - Six Pixels of Separation. Feel free to connect to me directly on Facebook here: Mitch Joel on Facebook. Check out ThinkersOne. or you can connect on LinkedIn. ...or on Twitter. Here is my conversation with Nicholas Mattei. Tulane University. Tulane Center of Excellence for Community-Engaged AI. Follow Nick on LinkedIn. Follow Nick on X. This week's music: David Usher 'St. Lawrence River'. Takeaways Interdisciplinary work, particularly between computer science, law, and sociology, is crucial to understanding the societal impacts of AI. AI is broadly defined as making computers appear intelligent, covering tasks like Google Maps navigation and Netflix recommendations, while machine learning involves training computers to learn from data and make predictions without explicit programming. Traditional AI integrates data across sources, whereas generative AI predicts the next word in a sequence based on large datasets. Generative AI excels at repetitive writing tasks but struggles with truly innovative creativity, as it mimics patterns from its training data. Significant concerns exist about the ethical deployment of AI, particularly regarding data privacy, copyright issues, and potential societal impacts The transformer architecture, developed by Google, revolutionized AI by enabling faster and more efficient training of large language models. Skepticism exists about achieving artificial general intelligence (AGI), but aligning AI tools with human values and ensuring they support human decision-making is valuable. AI's integration into various domains, from criminal justice to creative industries, poses both opportunities and challenges, necessitating continuous adaptation and training.\ Ongoing dialogue and exploration are essential to understanding and shaping the future of AI responsibly. Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction and Nicholas's Background 06:00 - Defining AI and Machine Learning 12:00 - Generative AI Capabilities 20:00 - Ethical and Societal Impacts of AI 30:00 - Transformers and AI Development 35:00 - AI in Practice and Real-World Applications 45:00 - Future of AI and AGI 55:00 - Alignment and Ethical AI 58:00 - Conclusion and Future Discussions 

Here it is: Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast - Episode #931. What is a thought leader? What does thought leadership look like? How do you become a thought leader? I’ve spent decades fascinated by people who undertake the job of either creating or building on great ideas (mostly in business). It’s what led me to start ThinkersOne and it’s the same thing that keeps me inspired to show up here - week after week - and have these types of conversations. This week, we’re doing something a little bit different. I reached out to Peter Winick - the founder and CEO of Thought Leadership Leverage and host of the Leveraging Thought Leadership Podcast - and asked him if he would mind leading a conversation on the business of thought leadership. We were both eager to discuss and debate the value of thought leadership, the changing landscape of book publishing, building a personal brand, the power of thought leadership in corporate settings, the role of social proofing and more. We both agree that it’s all about relationship development, balancing vanity metrics and strategic networking, developing thought leadership skills and leveraging thought leadership for business opportunities. We explore the importance of creating mid-tier products, amplifying thought leaders' voices, and democratizing intellectual property. The conversation delves into building a sustainable thought leadership business, using thought leadership as a business generation strategy, and the real money in thought leadership. While we both might not love the title of “thought leader” we both agree on the value of people who chose the importance of lifelong learning, content creation, and balancing creativity with business strategy as a profession. Enjoy the conversation... Running time: 1:15:33. Hello from beautiful Montreal. Subscribe over at Apple Podcasts. Please visit and leave comments on the blog - Six Pixels of Separation. Feel free to connect to me directly on Facebook here: Mitch Joel on Facebook. Check out ThinkersOne. or you can connect on LinkedIn. ...or on Twitter. Here is my conversation with Peter Winick. Thought Leadership Leverage. Leveraging Thought Leadership Podcast. Follow Peter on LinkedIn. Follow Peter on X. This week's music: David Usher 'St. Lawrence River'. Takeaways Practice and refinement are essential for thought leaders to deliver valuable content. Social media can serve as an R&D lab for testing ideas and gathering feedback. Thoughtful thought leadership focuses on adding value and engaging with the audience, while influencer marketing aims to persuade and sell products. Respecting the publish button and ensuring the quality of content is crucial for thought leaders. Artificial intelligence can be used to enhance thought leadership by improving writing, generating opposing perspectives, and providing new insights. Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction and Background 01:31 - The Value of Thought Leadership 06:20 - Building Personal Brand and Thought Leadership 10:36 - The Power of Thought Leadership in Corporate Settings 11:36 - The Role of Social Proof in Thought Leadership 15:19 - Balancing Vanity Metrics and Strategic Networking 25:13 - Monetizing Relationships and Thought Leadership 27:10 - Democratizing Intellectual Property and Broadening Offerings 29:21 - Building a Sustainable Thought Leadership Business 30:19 - Thought Leadership as a Business Generation Strategy 31:21 - The Real Money in Thought Leadership: B2B 34:06 - Creating Personalized Experiences and Extending the Event Impact 37:27 - The Limitations of Speaking and the Need for Behavior Change 39:18 - The Importance of Lifelong Learning and Content Creation 47:58 - Experimenting with Different Formats and Reaching the Target Market 49:36 - Practicing in Public and the Challenges of Thought Leadership 53:18 - Using Social Media as an R&D Lab 54:15 Thoughtful Thought Leadership vs. Influencer Marketing 56:52 - Adding Sizzle to Thought Leadership 58:38 - Using AI to Enhance Thought Leadership

Welcome to episode #930 of Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast. Here it is: Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast - Episode #930. I’ve known Juliette Powell since she was a famed VJ on MusiquePlus - MuchMusic and I was a music journalist back in the mid-ninties. While we lost touch over the years, we reconnected when she published her book about social media in 2008, 33 Million People in the Room - How to Create, Influence, and Run a Successful Business with Social Networking, and more recently with her latest, The AI Dilemma - 7 Principles for Responsible Technology (co-authored with Art Kleiner). The balance between innovation and ethics with artificial intelligence is becoming increasingly crucial. Juliette, a seasoned consultant at the intersection of technology and business (wit her consultancy, KPI), addresses this challenge head-on in The AI Dilemma. The book is a roadmap for businesses and governments looking to harness AI's potential responsibly. Juliette delves into the pressing issues surrounding AI deployment and the imperative of upholding ethical standards. With her extensive background consulting for multinational companies and her research at Columbia University, Juliette brings a wealth of knowledge and a unique perspective to the AI discourse. She explores the dual nature of AI - its capacity to drive unprecedented progress and its potential to perpetuate harm. She articulates the seven principles outlined in her book, which serve as guidelines for developing AI systems that support human flourishing while minimizing risks. These principles focus on rigorous risk assessment, transparency, data protection, bias reduction, accountability, organizational flexibility, and fostering an environment of psychological safety and creative friction. Juliette's insights are informed by real-world examples and her collaborations with institutions like Intel Labs and governmental bodies, which underscore the complexity of AI’s impact across various sectors. Our discussion also touches on the broader social implications of AI, including the challenges posed by data ownership, the illusion of personalized experiences, and the global divide in data value. Juliette addresses the confusion surrounding the term 'AI' and the critical need for digital literacy to navigate its consequences effectively. We all know that AI presents significant challenges but it also offers remarkable opportunities for those willing to engage with it thoughtfully and ethically. Enjoy the conversation... Running time: 1:00:36. Hello from beautiful Montreal. Subscribe over at Apple Podcasts. Please visit and leave comments on the blog - Six Pixels of Separation. Feel free to connect to me directly on Facebook here: Mitch Joel on Facebook. Check out ThinkersOne. or you can connect on LinkedIn. ...or on Twitter. Here is my conversation with Juliette Powell. The AI Dilemma - 7 Principles for Responsible Technology. 33 Million People in the Room - How to Create, Influence, and Run a Successful Business with Social Networking. KPI. Follow Juliette on LinkedIn. Follow Juliette on X. This week's music: David Usher 'St. Lawrence River'. Takeaways Understanding the impact of AI requires critical thinking and digital literacy. Data ownership and the responsible deployment of AI are crucial considerations. Government regulation and international cooperation are necessary to address the challenges of AI. The term 'AI' is often misused and misunderstood, leading to confusion in the marketplace. The development and deployment of AI should be driven by ethical considerations and a risk-benefit analysis. The Apex Benchmark. Alignment and Human Values: Ensuring that AI systems align with human values is a complex challenge, as different cultures and individuals have varying moral perspectives.  Creative Friction and Diverse Perspectives: The best products and ideas are often the result of collaboration and diverse perspectives.  AI as a Tool for Creativity: AI can enhance human creativity by providing new perspectives, prompting exploration of new ideas, and generating content.  Ethics, AI, and the Future of Work: The ethical implications of AI are significant, particularly in relation to job displacement and income inequality.  Unconditional Love and Connection: The power of unconditional love and connection can shape our perspectives and actions.  Chapters: 00:00 0 Introduction and Background 02:28 - Early Recognition of AI's Impact 04:02 - Understanding Machine Learning and Data Ownership 06:36 - Lack of Transparency in AI Systems 07:42 - The Quandary of Personal Data and AI 09:33 - The Disconnect Between Public Awareness and Concern 11:08 - The Rise of AI and Data as New Oil 15:12 - The Need for Responsible AI Deployment 16:24 - Government Discourse and Regulation on AI 21:35 - Nationalism and Geopolitical Competition in AI 24:18 - Confusion and Misuse of the Term 'AI' 28:56 - The Importance of Digital Literacy 32:19 - The Pressure to Deploy AI and the Lack of Understanding 39:16 - The Excitement and Impact of ChatGPT 41:26 - The Apex Benchmark and the Race to Follow 45:23 - Alignment and the Challenge of Human Values 48:53 - Creative Friction and the Power of Diverse Perspectives 50:09 - The Medium is the Message: AI as a Tool for Creativity 54:24 - Ethics, AI, and the Future of Work 55:56 - Unconditional Love and the Power of Connection

Welcome to episode #929 of Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast. Here it is: Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast - Episode #929. Uncertainty and rapid change have become the business norm. The need for brave leadership is more pronounced than ever. Todd Henry, self-describes as an "arms dealer for the creative revolution," brings this point home in his latest book, The Brave Habit - A Guide To Courageous Leadership. Known for his extensive work with leaders and organizations to foster environments of innovation and creative brilliance, Todd's insights are always invaluable for anyone looking to thrive in creative or challenging industries. Todd’s been a friend for over a decade, and he is the person that I turn to when I think about new ways for human beings to be creative and more effective. Todd explores the evolving dynamics of bravery in the business world, especially in the realms of book publishing and the integration of artificial intelligence into creative processes. As the landscape of publishing shifts and AI begins to play a significant role in creativity, Todd discusses how these tools can be leveraged to enhance creative output without compromising the integrity of artistic expression. The Brave Habit is not just a manual - it's a manifesto for courageous action in times of daunting challenges. Todd emphasizes that bravery isn't an innate trait possessed by a select few but a skill that can be honed. His practical framework for courageous leadership is designed to empower professionals to make tough decisions and lead confidently through times of uncertainty. The conversation also touches on the risks posed by cancel culture and the pervasive fear of judgment that can stifle bold decision-making. Todd argues that creating a balance between homogeneity and creativity is crucial for fostering a culture of innovation. He highlights the role of empathy in understanding diverse perspectives and building a supportive environment where bravery can flourish. According to Todd, bravery involves doing the right thing in the face of fear or personal loss, and it is something that can and should be cultivated daily. Todd is also the author of The Accidental Creative, Die Empty, Herding Tigers, Daily Creative (also the name of his excellent and recently rebooted podcast), and Louder Than Words. Todd is also active on ThinkersOne where you can book him to pop into your next meeting. Enjoy the conversation... Running time: 1:09:06. Hello from beautiful Montreal. Subscribe over at Apple Podcasts. Please visit and leave comments on the blog - Six Pixels of Separation. Feel free to connect to me directly on Facebook here: Mitch Joel on Facebook. Check out ThinkersOne. or you can connect on LinkedIn. ...or on Twitter. Here is my conversation with Todd Henry. The Brave Habit - A Guide To Courageous Leadership. Daily Creative. Daily Creative Podcast. The Accidental Creative. Die Empty. Herding Tigers. Louder Than Words. Check out Todd on ThinkersOne. Follow Todd on X. Follow Todd In Instagram. Follow Todd on LinkedIn. This week's music: David Usher 'St. Lawrence River'. Takeaways The traditional model of book publishing is evolving, with new formats and publishing options emerging. AI has the potential to enhance creativity by providing new avenues of exploration and inspiration. Creativity is a complex concept, and the impact of AI on creativity is still being explored. Bravery is essential in creative pursuits, as it requires taking risks and challenging the status quo.  Cancel culture and the fear of making missteps can hinder bravery in the workplace. Finding a balance between homogeneity and creativity is crucial for fostering innovation. Empathy plays a significant role in promoting bravery and understanding different perspectives. Bravery is defined as doing the right thing even in the face of fear or personal loss. Being brave in a cowardice situation requires listening to one's conscience and not succumbing to societal pressures. Bravery can be developed and trained, and it is not limited to extraordinary acts. Promoting bravery in everyday life involves creating a culture that values empathy, meaningful conversations, and the willingness to challenge the status quo. Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction and Book Formats 03:00 - The Changing Landscape of Book Publishing 06:11 - New Models for Book Publishing 09:22 - The Role of AI in Creativity 15:10 - The Complexity of Creativity and AI 21:18 - The Impact of AI on Creativity and Imagination 30:05 - The Brave Habit and Bravery in Creativity 36:36 - Balancing Artistic Expression and Market Demands 41:09 - Taking Brave Actions in Creative Pursuits 41:59 - The Rewarding of Bravery in the Business World 45:12 - The Impact of Cancel Culture on Bravery 50:14 - The Balance Between Homogeneity and Creativity 54:53 - The Role of Empathy in Bravery 01:00:06 - The Definition and Opposite of Bravery 01:01:17 - Being Brave in a Cowardice Situation 01:04:06 - Discovering the Nature of Bravery 01:05:22 - Promoting Bravery in Everyday Life

Welcome to episode #928 of Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast. Here it is: Six Pixels of Separation - The ThinkersOne Podcast - Episode #928. Let’s explore what it means to master something. Dr. Michael Gervais is a world-renowned high-performance psychologist whose work has revolutionized the way we think about fear, potential, and personal growth. Mike, whose career spans working with top athletes and Fortune 100 leaders, delves into the critical barriers that impede our success and satisfaction in life — chief among them, the Fear Of Other People's Opinions (aka FOPO). His new book, The First Rule of Mastery - Stop Worrying about What People Think of You, dives deep into overcoming this pervasive fear. Mike articulates how FOPO manifests in nearly all aspects of our lives, constricting our actions and dampening our authenticity. From the sports field to the boardroom, the consequences of surrendering to FOPO are universally detrimental, leading us to play it safe and small. During our conversation, Mike shares his personal journey of curiosity, which has fueled his passion for understanding the human mind and its vast capabilities. He emphasizes that the path to mastery isn't just about achieving external success but about engaging in a lifelong process of learning, artistic expression, and embracing the moment. This approach not only enhances personal fulfillment but also drives us to contribute meaningfully to the world around us. We discuss the broader implications of living under the shadow of FOPO in today’s society, where insularity and tribalism often dominate. He highlights the importance of embracing a balanced perspective and the dual recognition of our significance to others while acknowledging our smallness in the grand scheme of things. As someone who splits his time between innovative projects at the Performance Science Institute at USC and his podcast Finding Mastery, Mike embodies the balance between action and reflection, making him an ideal guide for anyone looking to deepen their understanding of themselves and the world through the lens of mastery. Whether you're a leader, educator, or simply someone pursuing personal growth, this conversation will empower you to lead a high-performance life by mastering the art of tuning out the noise and focusing on what truly matters. Enjoy the conversation... Running time: 1:03:16. Hello from beautiful Montreal. Subscribe over at Apple Podcasts. Please visit and leave comments on the blog - Six Pixels of Separation. Feel free to connect to me directly on Facebook here: Mitch Joel on Facebook. Check out ThinkersOne. or you can connect on LinkedIn. ...or on Twitter. Here is my conversation with Dr. Michael Gervais. The First Rule of Mastery - Stop Worrying about What People Think of You. Finding Mastery Podcast. Finding Mastery. Follow Mike on LinkedIn. Follow Mike on X. Follow Mike on Instagram. Follow Mike on YouTube. This week's music: David Usher 'St. Lawrence River'. Takeaways Fear of other people's opinions (FOPO) can be a major obstacle to personal growth and potential. Setting high standards for oneself is more effective than having expectations. Context and culture play a crucial role in shaping our actions and behaviors. The path to mastery involves a deep commitment to learning, artistic expression, and a love affair with the unfolding moment. Maintaining authenticity and staying true to oneself can be challenging in the face of external expectations and pressures.  The voice inside our heads can either be a protector or a propeller, and it's important to be aware of its influence on our thoughts and actions. Success is a subjective concept that varies from person to person and is influenced by cultural and individual values. The current state of society is characterized by increasing insularity, tribalism, and a focus on superficial metrics of success. To live a good life, it is important to prioritize experiences, relationships, and personal growth over external achievements. Investing in mental skills training, such as mindfulness, journaling, and conversations with wise individuals, can help cultivate a positive mindset and navigate challenges. The path to mastery involves embracing duality, recognizing our significance in the lives of others while also acknowledging our smallness in the grand scheme of things. Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction and Background. 08:24 - Setting High Standards for Personal Growth. 30:34 - Navigating Authenticity in the Face of External Expectations. 39:33 - The importance of awareness. 48:30 - The current state of society. 55:24 - Unleashing human potential.