Humor In The C-Suite – Details, episodes & analysis

Welcome to the first episode of 2025 of "Humor in the C Suite," where host Kate Davis dives into the intersection of humor and leadership. As the new year unfolds, Kate reflects on the previous year’s episodes filled with insightful discussions from guests representing diverse industries such as publishing, construction, and economics. This episode marks a departure from tradition, as Kate chooses to fly solo, taking time to explore recurring themes from last year's interviews.

Using personal storytelling as a central theme, Kate illustrates how these narratives foster strong connections and are instrumental in creating a shame-free work environment. Reflecting on personal stories and experiences, the episode provides practical advice on how to harness humor for better leadership and interpersonal connections.

Key Takeaways:

• Humor is a powerful tool in team management, enhancing collaboration and fostering a positive work environment.
• Authenticity and personal storytelling are crucial in creating a trusting and open workplace culture.
• Humor fosters a creative and playful atmosphere, leading to innovation and problem-solving.
• Even simple gestures and stories can convert transactional interactions into deep and genuine human connections.

"We all have that one story we retell over and over and over again... a shared moment allows us to bond. It takes us from transactional to human. That's what it's all about."

Additional Links & Resources:

• Interested in being a guest on Humor in the C-Suite? Reach out to book a call with Kate!
• Learn more about me and my work at katedavis.ca

Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Humor in the C-Suite! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow the podcast, share it with your friends, and leave a rating or review. Your support helps the podcast continue to grow.

Hosted by Kate Davis
Edited by Chris @ Wider View Studios

In this episode of "Humor in the C Suite," host Kate Davis welcomes Melissa Hurley, VP of Learning and People Development at Bill Gosling Outsourcing, for an engaging conversation on how humor influences leadership and workplace culture. The episode kicks off with Kate's enthusiastic introduction of Melissa and a recount of how they met during a high-intensity leadership development weekend named "Outside the Wire." The experience involved military-style exercises, which taught Melissa and Kate invaluable lessons about teamwork, leadership, and, importantly, the use of humor under pressure.

Key Takeaways:

• Humor is a powerful tool in leadership for building trust, enhancing collaboration, and reducing workplace stress.
• Creating an inclusive environment where employees feel they "get to come to work" rather than "have to" is pivotal in fostering employee engagement.
• Understanding and respecting cultural differences is crucial when applying humor in a global setting.
• Vulnerability and self-deprecating humor can establish a strong connection and humanize leaders, making workplaces more inviting.
• Despite cultural and language barriers, humor can serve as a common ground to improve team cohesion and break down hierarchical divides.

"Laughter is a medicine. It's something you need in stressful times, sad times, and happy times." - Melissa Hurley

Additional Links & Resources:

• Interested in being a guest on Humor in the C-Suite? Reach out to book a call with Kate!
• Learn more about me and my work at katedavis.ca

Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Humor in the C-Suite! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow the podcast, share it with your friends, and leave a rating or review. Your support helps the podcast continue to grow.

Hosted by Kate Davis
Edited by Chris @ Wider View Studios

Judd Shaw is an adventurer, storyteller, and agent of change, blending his background as a lawyer and CEO of Judd Shaw Injury Law with a passion for helping others. Judd chased professional success up the "I made it Mountain," only to discover its hollow rewards without genuine human bonds. Through introspection, therapy, and collaboration with professionals, Judd developed the CURE framework—a compass guiding individuals and businesses to create authentic connections and thrive. 

As a celebrated keynote speaker on authenticity, vulnerability, and shame-friendly work environments, Judd shares his transformative journey to inspire others. Judd also shares his messages through his bestselling children's book series, "Sterling the Knight," and his podcast 'Behind the Armor'. His motto is "Bravery Starts in the Heart." To learn more about the Juddverse, visit Juddshaw.com.

Additional Links & Resources:

• Interested in being a guest on Humor in the C-Suite? Reach out to book a call with Kate!
• Learn more about me and my work at katedavis.ca

Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Humor in the C-Suite! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow the podcast, share it with your friends, and leave a rating or review. Your support helps the podcast continue to grow.

Hosted by Kate Davis
Edited by Chris @ Wider View Studios

Em Stroud is the Comic Coach. Who speaks on a range of subjects including how laughter and fun can impact on leadership, teams and culture. How tools and ideas from the world of Improvisation, Comedy and Clowning can impact business success and team performance as well as leadership. Stroud is a best selling author, Clown and successful entrepreneur who has been described as “innovative, witty, engaging and authentic” by Diva Magazines Sam Grierson. She is the host of two podcasts Funny yet Deep and Simply Feel Better. She has also done two tedx talks (one dressed as a banana!)Em explores the relationship between culture within organisations and the human element, how we can collaborate more successfully and shift our own personal choices when it comes to engagement, communication, impact and storytelling. Em comes from having worked with a compelling list of previous teams, senior individuals and leadership groups in companies including Bloomberg, Bayer, Barclaycard and other firms that do not begin with a B including Airbus, King and Fisher German!

Additional Links & Resources:

• Interested in being a guest on Humor in the C-Suite? Reach out to book a call with Kate!
• Learn more about me and my work at katedavis.ca

Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Humor in the C-Suite! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow the podcast, share it with your friends, and leave a rating or review. Your support helps the podcast continue to grow.

Hosted by Kate Davis
Edited by Chris @ Wider View Studios

Anne is currently the Vice President of Education at the Healthcare Distribution Alliance (HDA). In this role she is responsible for all educational activities, including Diversity Equity & Inclusion, internally and externally. Before joining HDA in 2016, Anne provided education and certification management for both healthcare and trade associations, to include multiple associations at SmithBucklin and the Helicopter Association International. She is a proud graduate of Florida State University and after spending 16 years in the DC Metro area is living and working remotely back in her home state of Florida. She is passionate about learning and connecting people for the purpose of sharing and growth, which drives her personal pursuits. 

Additional Links & Resources:

• Interested in being a guest on Humor in the C-Suite? Reach out to book a call with Kate!
• Learn more about me and my work at katedavis.ca

Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Humor in the C-Suite! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow the podcast, share it with your friends, and leave a rating or review. Your support helps the podcast continue to grow.

Hosted by Kate Davis
Edited by Chris @ Wider View Studios

Charlene Wheeless is a multifaceted powerhouse in the business world. She blends over 30 years of extensive experience in leadership, communications, and operations with a personal journey that exudes authenticity and resilience. As a highly sought-after keynote speaker, leadership advisor/coach, and author, she has empowered executives and teams globally to achieve breakthrough performance and transform business cultures.

Charlene began her public life as an NFL cheerleader, performing in front of millions, which honed her presence and poise for the stage. Her mission is deeply rooted in helping ambitious women embrace life with unapologetic authenticity. This commitment is evident through her “SOAR and Be Seen” keynote, which has inspired countless professionals internationally. Her debut book, “You Are Enough! Reclaiming Your Career and Life with Purpose, Passion, and Unapologetic Authenticity,” was a bestseller in 2021, winning three independent book awards for best non-fiction and inspirational books of the year.

At Charlene Wheeless LLC, she leverages her vast business acumen to assist organizations in achieving their goals. She also served as a senior advisor for equity and justice at APCO Worldwide, guiding C-suite leaders and companies in implementing effective DE&I initiatives. Charlene’s multidisciplinary business skills were honed through roles at multinational companies like Raytheon, CGI, PRC (Now Northrop Grumman), and DynCorp, handling global communications, crisis, issues, reputation risk, and business operations management. As the Principal Vice President of Corporate Affairs at Bechtel Corporation, she provided C-suite counsel on marketing, business development, strategy, international affairs, and talent engagement.

Her insights have been featured in major publications like Forbes, Business Insider, Thrive Global, and PRWeek, as well as on networks like ABC and Fox. Charlene’s leadership and expertise are recognized by her inclusion in Marshall Goldsmith’s prestigious 100 Coaches community and certifications in leadership disciplines from Georgetown University and the International Coaching Federation (ICF).  She also holds a bachelor’s degree in journalism and two master’s degrees in public communication and business administration.

Charlene has coached, spoken for, and worked with global industry leaders like IBM, Google, Northrop Grumman, Raytheon Corp., Lockheed Martin, Cisco, General Motors, The U.S. Air Force Academy, and National Geographic. She has also been the spokesperson for multinational giants, including Bechtel, CGI, and DynCorp.   She has played pivotal roles in over ten mergers, acquisitions, and divestitures, leading to successful rebranding and accretive value for owners and shareholders.

As a speaker, Charlene’s TEDx talk “CHOICE NOT CHANCE!” and her keynotes offer practical and empowering steps for breaking down fear, overcoming obstacles, and making bold business and life choices. Her service on several boards, including NO MORE, The Page Society, the Page Center, and the Institute for Public Relations Research, underscores her unwavering dedication to driving meaningful change. As the past chair of the Page Society, HCA Healthcare Virginia, and t

Additional Links & Resources:

• Interested in being a guest on Humor in the C-Suite? Reach out to book a call with Kate!
• Learn more about me and my work at katedavis.ca

Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Humor in the C-Suite! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow the podcast, share it with your friends, and leave a rating or review. Your support helps the podcast continue to grow.

Hosted by Kate Davis
Edited by Chris @ Wider View Studios

Lori Saitz is a nationally recognized stress eradication expert, award-winning author, speaker, broadcaster, trainer, writer, executive coach, and employee wellbeing consultant.

As the founder and CEO of Zen Rabbit, a forward-thinking health and wellness company, she is dedicated to guiding business leaders toward creating and nurturing healthier, more productive work environments. With a comprehensive background in wellness strategies and employee engagement, her mission is to share easy-to-implement tools and techniques that not only improve the well-being of employee teams but also contribute to their bottom line through enhanced performance, improved morale, and increased employee retention and engagement. 

Lori is currently living a nomad life while cat-sitting in states across the southeast U.S. You can often find her in her sanctuary, AKA the weight room at the gym. She also loves cupcakes, Thai food, and classic rock music.

Additional Links & Resources:

• Interested in being a guest on Humor in the C-Suite? Reach out to book a call with Kate!
• Learn more about me and my work at katedavis.ca

Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Humor in the C-Suite! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow the podcast, share it with your friends, and leave a rating or review. Your support helps the podcast continue to grow.

Hosted by Kate Davis
Edited by Chris @ Wider View Studios

Chris Dyer, a celebrated keynote speaker with over 15 years of experience, specializes in company culture and remote work. As a CEO, his leadership led his companies to be recognized as best workplaces and to feature on Inc Magazine’s fastest-growing companies list five times. Renowned for his expertise, Inc Magazine named him the #1 Leadership Speaker on Culture.

He is the author of three bestselling books, “The Power of Company Culture” and “Remote Work.” Chris has received numerous accolades, including being ranked #5 on the Leadershum Power List, named a Top 40 Change Management Guru and a Top 50 Global Thought Leader, and his leadership podcast is among the top 50 globally. His speaking engagements are known for their transformative impact, blending insightful candor, humor, and effective strategies like his 7 Pillar Strategy, significantly boosting productivity and performance in many organizations.

Additional Links & Resources:

• Interested in being a guest on Humor in the C-Suite? Reach out to book a call with Kate!
• Learn more about me and my work at katedavis.ca

Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Humor in the C-Suite! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow the podcast, share it with your friends, and leave a rating or review. Your support helps the podcast continue to grow.

Hosted by Kate Davis
Edited by Chris @ Wider View Studios

Since 2005, Allan Ebedes has led Excellence Canada, formerly known as the National Quality Institute. Working with the Board of Directors, he is responsible for setting the strategic direction of Excellence Canada and delivering on its business plan and mission.

Allan began his business career as a Chartered Accountant (CA) at Coopers & Lybrand, now PWC. He then became a partner at a small furniture and appliance chain, which grew significantly during his ownership, and was subsequently sold to The Brick. In 1979, he started a private career college called the Toronto School of Business, a division of International Business Schools, which grew to become the largest career college in Canada, with 50 locations coast to coast which during his ownership, trained over 250,000 adult students for new and rewarding careers. Allan took the company public on the NASDAQ exchange.

In 2002, Allan founded Management Mentors International, a company dedicated to corporate training and development, coaching and mentoring. He was also appointed as President of the Academy of Learning, a chain of 100 computer learning centres across Canada.

Allan is a CA, CPA and earned an MBA from the University of Toronto (now Rotman School of Management) and an LLM law degree in Global Business through an evening program at the Faculty of Law. Allan is a Certified Director (ICD.D) with the Institute of Corporate Directors and is a member of the Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO).

Additional Links & Resources:

• Interested in being a guest on Humor in the C-Suite? Reach out to book a call with Kate!
• Learn more about me and my work at katedavis.ca

Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Humor in the C-Suite! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow the podcast, share it with your friends, and leave a rating or review. Your support helps the podcast continue to grow.

Hosted by Kate Davis
Edited by Chris @ Wider View Studios

As CEO of Amplify Publishing Group, Naren advises industry experts and thought leaders on the opportunities and challenges that exist in the ever-evolving world of publishing. Naren’s visionary leadership has spearheaded a critical disruption of the publishing industry and has legitimized the fastest-growing sector of the market to date. At each turn, he has created more opportunities for deserving authors across genres to not only publish their work, but to publish their work well.

He launched Amplify with a single title in 2003 and guided it to what it is today—one of the fastest growing and most respected hybrid publishing companies in the world. At the core of Amplify’s ethos is Naren’s prioritization of innovation. Over the past two decades he has brought new and exciting ways to publish to the fore.

Prior to entering the world of books, Naren worked as a lawyer, advising technology companies in the Washington, DC, area. He is a frequent speaker on the publishing landscape, content development and positioning, book production and marketing, and author branding.

Additional Links & Resources:

• Interested in being a guest on Humor in the C-Suite? Reach out to book a call with Kate!
• Learn more about me and my work at katedavis.ca

Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Humor in the C-Suite! If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to follow the podcast, share it with your friends, and leave a rating or review. Your support helps the podcast continue to grow.

Hosted by Kate Davis
Edited by Chris @ Wider View Studios