Small Things Make Great Leaders with Dr. Julian Barling

In this episode, Dr. Julian Barling joins host Ben Tepper to discuss how the smallest actions can define truly effective leadership. Together they explore why leadership development and training should start before people move into management roles, the impact of leaders’ mental health on performance, and how evidence-based research can help create stronger, more human-centered leaders.

Putting People First with Eric Lenard at Johnson & Johnson

In this episode, Eric Lenard, VP of Global Services Finance at Johnson & Johnson, speaks with Jen Knox Shanahan about how courageous leadership means staying true to your values, embracing risk, and leading with empathy. He reflects on his own growth, the importance of celebrating people as well as results, and how a culture of learning and psychological safety empowers teams to lead boldly. 

Storytelling and Primal Intelligence with Angus Fletcher

In this episode of The Leadership Initiative, host Jen Knox Shanahan sits down with Angus Fletcher to discuss the deep connection between storytelling and primal intelligence. Fletcher shares how leaders can tap into narrative, curiosity, and imagination to spark innovation, foster engagement, and cultivate more human-centered leadership.

Navigating Tech-Driven Change with John Hrusovsky at Synexis Consulting

In this episode, John Hrusovsky continues his conversation with host Jen Knox Shanahan, exploring how leaders can navigate technology-driven change through principled leadership and strategic alignment. Join us as John shares practical insights on leading with intention, adopting AI responsibly, and returning to technology fundamentals to drive sustainable success.

Strategic Leadership in a Changing World with John Hrusovsky at Synexis Consulting

In this episode of The Leadership Initiative, John Hrusovsky, Managing Director at Synexis Consulting and Program Advisor at The Ohio State University Fisher College of Business, shares actionable insights on strategic leadership in today’s evolving business landscape. He discusses how to inspire teams, drive organizational change, and align people and priorities for long-term success.

Creating Space for Authenticity with Tracey Boggs

In this episode, Host Jen Knox Shanahan speaks to higher education leader Tracey Boggs as she shares her leadership journey from finance to academia and how she fosters psychologically safe workplace cultures. She discusses the power of vulnerability, values-driven leadership, and creating environments where teams feel supported, empowered, and inspired to grow.

Diving into Human-Centered Leadership with Andrea Carter at Belonging First

In this episode of The Leadership Initiative, Andrea Carter shares how organizations can cultivate psychological safety and a deep sense of belonging to drive performance and inclusion. Drawing on her work at Belonging First, she offers practical strategies for building truly human-centered workplaces.

Enhancing Workplace Culture with Andrea Carter at Belonging First

In this episode, Andrea Carter from Belonging First discusses the power of building strong workplace cultures that prioritize connection, trust, and collaboration. She shares strategies for fostering inclusive environments where employees feel engaged, valued, and motivated to contribute to organizational success.