Explore every episode of the podcast The Change Agent Podcast
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Learning From Failure | 10 Feb 2025 | 00:11:22 | |
In this episode of The Change Agent, Eric tackles the powerful concept of learning from failure and turning setbacks into stepping stones for success. He explores common reasons why projects fail, such as poor communication, scope creep, and weak leadership, and offers practical strategies for leaders to turn these failures into valuable lessons. Through actionable steps like conducting a blame-free post-mortem, extracting lessons learned, and applying those insights to future projects, Eric emphasizes the importance of adapting and growing through challenges. Drawing from a personal experience, he highlights the significance of preparation, stakeholder alignment, and documenting lessons to improve project outcomes. Tune in for practical advice on how to embrace failure as a tool for continuous improvement and stronger leadership. 🎧 A conversation about understanding the power of failing. Success is built on learning and learning needs you to experience failure! Send us a message and let’s connect! Support Our Show On Apple Podcasts! Support Us On YouTube by Subscribing! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Support the show to help us continue! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2449509/support | |||
| Own Your Niche - Dennis Meador | 16 Mar 2026 | 00:31:18 | |
In this episode The Change Agent Podcast, Eric and Dennis examine how professionals differentiate themselves in crowded, price-driven markets and why authority, trust, and precision positioning matter more than raw visibility. Dennis “DM” Meador has spent more than two decades working alongside attorneys and professional service firms, observing how digital search and market saturation have reshaped how expertise is perceived and purchased. His work now focuses on helping legal professionals move away from commoditized competition and toward authority-driven positioning through targeted podcasting and content ecosystems designed to attract the right clients rather than the most attention. The conversation explores the strategic use of podcasting not as a vanity metric exercise but as a trust-building mechanism. Dennis explains why highly specific content aimed at narrowly defined audiences consistently outperforms broad messaging, and why a smaller, highly qualified audience often produces better business outcomes than mass exposure without conversion. This discussion also addresses how trust is built through audio, why intimacy and consistency matter in long-form conversations, and how answering real client questions in practical terms creates credibility before the first direct interaction ever occurs. The episode highlights how thoughtful content strategy can move relationships from discovery to confidence before a single sales conversation begins. This is a conversation about influence built on clarity, the economics of trust, and what it takes to stand out when expertise alone is no longer enough. ----------------- Send us a message and let’s connect! Support Our Show On Apple Podcasts! Support Us On YouTube by Subscribing! | |||
| Stay Curious, Lead Better - Simon Kardynal | 09 Mar 2026 | 00:44:08 | |
Leadership in the military is changing — and so is authority. In this episode of The Change Agent, Warrant Officer Simon Kardynal (Royal Canadian Air Force) discusses modern military leadership, generational shifts, empathy in structured systems, and what real accountability looks like at the senior NCO level. With nearly three decades of service — from infantry to Aircraft Maintenance Superintendent to Chief Warrant Officer — Simon explains:
Simon also shares practical tools: rehearsing hard conversations, preparing for discipline decisions, managing physiological reactions under stress, and developing guiding leadership principles. This is a candid conversation about leadership maturity, emotional intelligence, command responsibility, and the cost of authority. Topics Covered: Simon Kardynal - Trench Leadership Website #Leadership #MilitaryLeadership #EmotionalIntelligence #Command #SelfLeadership #RCAF Send us a message and let’s connect! Support Our Show On Apple Podcasts! Support Us On YouTube by Subscribing! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Support the show to help us continue! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2449509/support | |||
| The Science of Leadership - Dr. Valentina Schneider | 26 Jan 2026 | 01:01:04 | |
Leadership advice is everywhere—but leadership that actually works is rare. In this episode of The Change Agent, Eric sits down with Dr. Valentina Schneider, a leadership advisor and organizational behavior researcher, to unpack what most leaders misunderstand about empathy, assertiveness, and effectiveness. Drawing from years of academic research and real-world advisory work, Dr. Schneider challenges the false binary that leaders must choose between being nice or being effective. Through evidence-based insight, she explains why that belief is not only wrong—but actively damaging to teams, performance, and careers. Together, they explore:
This is not a conversation about soft skills. If you lead people, manage conflict, or operate in high-stakes environments where clarity is rare and responsibility is heavy—this episode will change how you think about leadership. 🎧 Listen closely. The science is clear—but the work is yours. Send us a message and let’s connect! Support Our Show On Apple Podcasts! Support Us On YouTube by Subscribing! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Support the show to help us continue! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2449509/support | |||
| Managing a Crisis | 25 Mar 2025 | 00:21:04 | |
In the Season 1 finale of The Change Agent, we’re diving into a high-stakes topic: Managing Through a Crisis. How do the best leaders handle pressure when everything is on the line? The answer lies in the 72-Hour Rule—a powerful strategy used in military, intelligence, and emergency response to make critical decisions and take decisive action in the first 72 hours of a crisis. 🎧 A conversation about how to manage a crisis in your project or organization. Send us a message and let’s connect! Support Our Show On Apple Podcasts! Support Us On YouTube by Subscribing! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Support the show to help us continue! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2449509/support | |||
| Chaos in Leadership - with Dr. Kevin Mays | 12 Jan 2026 | 00:56:00 | |
In this episode of The Change Agent, Eric sits down once again with Dr. Kevin Mays to explore one of the most uncomfortable—and defining—realities of leadership: chaos. When certainty collapses, plans fail, and people look to you for answers you don’t yet have, how you show up matters more than what you know. Together, Eric and Dr. Mays unpack why our obsession with clarity can actually undermine leadership, how expertise can quietly become a liability, and why the most effective leaders learn to stand calmly in uncertainty rather than rush to control it. This conversation dives deep into:
Drawing on real-world leadership experience—from military command to executive coaching—this episode challenges the idea that leadership is about certainty, authority, or control. Instead, it reframes leadership as an internal discipline: leading yourself first, so others can follow with confidence. If you lead people in complex, high-pressure environments—or if you aspire to—this episode offers practical insight into navigating chaos without losing yourself or your team. Send us a message and let’s connect! Support Our Show On Apple Podcasts! Support Us On YouTube by Subscribing! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Support the show to help us continue! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2449509/support | |||
| Foundations of Project Management for Leaders | 11 Apr 2025 | 00:28:52 | |
In this episode of The Change Agent Season 2, Episode 2, Eric guides you through the foundational principles of project management with practical insights inspired by PMBOK Guide Chapter 1. He explores what makes projects unique, outlines the key phases of the project life cycle—from initiation to closure—and emphasizes the importance of tailoring your approach to deliver real value. Blending theory with real-world leadership practices, Eric discusses how empathetic communication, continuous learning, and proactive risk management not only keep projects on track but also empower teams to thrive. Whether you’re new to project management or looking to reinforce your leadership skills, this episode offers actionable strategies to navigate your projects with confidence and adaptability. 🎧 A conversation about project management principles for leaders. Send us a message and let’s connect! Support Our Show On Apple Podcasts! Support Us On YouTube by Subscribing! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Support the show to help us continue! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2449509/support | |||
| Project Control in Action | 26 May 2025 | 00:36:38 | |
In Episode 9, Season 2 of The Change Agent, your host Eric explores how to keep your project aligned, focused, and adaptable during the execution phase. Learn how to monitor what matters, manage change without chaos, and lead your team and stakeholders through uncertainty with clarity and confidence. If you’re in the thick of project delivery, this episode gives you the tools to stay in control and deliver value in real time. 🎧 A conversation about getting the action going and to manage. Send us a message and let’s connect! Support Our Show On Apple Podcasts! Support Us On YouTube by Subscribing! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Support the show to help us continue! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2449509/support | |||
| The Courage to Realign with Myrna King | 02 Feb 2026 | 00:43:05 | |
What happens when the life you worked hard to build no longer fits? In this episode of The Change Agent, Eric sits down with Myrna King—business and life coach, former tech consultant, and founder of A Life Aligned—to explore what it really means to make YOURSELF the priority. Myrna shares how high-performing professionals often reach the goals they fought for, only to discover burnout, misalignment, or a quiet loss of purpose. Together, they unpack why accountability feels threatening, how courage shows up in personal leadership, and why alignment isn’t about doing more—but doing what actually restores you. This conversation bridges practical leadership execution with inner work, showing how tools like structured project thinking, Socratic questioning, and emotional release practices help leaders move from feeling stuck to living deliberately. If you’ve ever felt successful on paper but unfulfilled in reality, this episode will help you rethink progress, redefine leadership, and take your next step with clarity. Send us a message and let’s connect! Support Our Show On Apple Podcasts! Support Us On YouTube by Subscribing! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Support the show to help us continue! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2449509/support | |||
| Strategy Hits Reality - With Mr. Mike Jones | 19 Jan 2026 | 00:52:39 | |
Most organisations don’t fail because they lack strategy. In this episode of The Change Agent, Eric sits down with Mike Jones, Founder and Director of LBI Consulting, to unpack what leadership and strategy actually look like when certainty disappears and complexity takes over. Drawing on his experience as a former British Army officer and leadership instructor at Sandhurst, as well as his work advising organisations across rail, healthcare, infrastructure, and large-scale enterprises, Mike challenges one of the most deeply held assumptions in modern leadership: that more clarity is always better. Instead, he introduces a more uncomfortable — and more effective — idea: strategic ambiguity. This conversation explores why over-specified strategies create fragility, how leaders can set clear intent without strangling execution, and why trust, decentralised decision-making, and freedom of action are essential in complex environments. Together, Eric and Mike discuss:
This is not a conversation about frameworks, buzzwords, or leadership theatre. If you’re a senior leader, programme manager, executive, or anyone navigating complexity where the stakes are real and the answers are incomplete, this episode will challenge how you think about leadership, control, and responsibility. 🎙️ Listen now — and learn why the ability to hold intent firmly, plans loosely, and ego lightly may be the most important leadership capability of our time. Learn More About: Mike's podcast - "Strategy Meets Reality" Send us a message and let’s connect! Support Our Show On Apple Podcasts! Support Us On YouTube by Subscribing! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Support the show to help us continue! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2449509/support | |||
| The Cost of Constant Pace - with Erin Treacy | 15 Feb 2026 | 00:37:04 | |
Leadership rarely breaks in a single moment—it wears down through sustained pressure, blurred boundaries, and leaders carrying too much for too long. In this episode of The Change Agent, leadership coach Erin Treacy joins the conversation to explore burnout, emotional intelligence, and what sustainable leadership actually looks like in practice. Drawing on nearly three decades across hospitality, marketing, and communications—as well as her experience as a former competitive alpine skier—Erin reframes leadership away from endurance and toward rhythm, recovery, and clarity. This is a grounded discussion for leaders who are still performing, but at a cost—and want to lead well without losing themselves in the process. Send us a message and let’s connect! Support Our Show On Apple Podcasts! Support Us On YouTube by Subscribing! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Support the show to help us continue! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2449509/support | |||
| Olga Rudnieva - Leadership, War, and Human Resilience | 05 Jan 2026 | 00:54:40 | |
In this powerful episode of The Change Agent, Eric sits down with Olga Rudnieva, CEO of the Superhumans Center, to explore what leadership looks like when everything familiar has been taken away. Against the backdrop of war in Ukraine, Olga shares her lived experience leading a national effort to restore dignity, purpose, and hope to those who have sacrificed the most. This is not a conversation about titles or theory — it is about responsibility, courage, and humanity under pressure. Together, we examine how leadership emerges in crisis, how moral clarity is forged through adversity, and why rebuilding lives is as important as rebuilding nations. This episode is a reminder that real change is driven by people who act when comfort disappears. 🎧 A conversation about resilience, purpose, and leadership when it matters most. Support The Superhumans Center in Ukraine! Follow Olga and her work on Facebook! Support Our Show On Apple Podcasts! Support Us On YouTube by Subscribing! Support Our Show via Donations below :) Send us a message and let’s connect! Support Our Show On Apple Podcasts! Support Us On YouTube by Subscribing! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Support the show to help us continue! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2449509/support | |||
| Managing Toxic Leadership | 18 Mar 2025 | 00:17:03 | |
Dealing with a toxic manager can feel like an impossible challenge—but you’re not powerless. In this episode of The Change Agent, we break down what makes a manager truly *toxic* (vs. just difficult), the impact they have on your well-being and career, and most importantly—how to handle them. 🎧 A conversation about how to handle and influence toxic management. Send us a message and let’s connect! Support Our Show On Apple Podcasts! Support Us On YouTube by Subscribing! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Support the show to help us continue! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2449509/support | |||
| Personal Lessons in Leadership | 10 Feb 2025 | 00:11:59 | |
Leadership is a journey, not a destination. In this episode of The Change Agent, I take a personal dive into my experiences—from my early days in the military to leading teams in the corporate world. I’ll share the key lessons I’ve learned, the mistakes that shaped me, and how leadership evolves alongside the people we lead. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to refine your leadership style, this episode offers real-world insights into building trust, managing relationships, and growing as a leader. Tune in and take your leadership to the next level! 🎧 A conversation about my personal lessons learning to lead. I made the mistakes so you don't have to. Send us a message and let’s connect! Support Our Show On Apple Podcasts! Support Us On YouTube by Subscribing! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Support the show to help us continue! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2449509/support | |||
| Starting the Project | 12 May 2025 | 00:26:15 | |
In Episode 7 of Season 2 of The Change Agent, we dive into what happens after a project is initiated—guiding new project managers through their next critical step: planning for execution. Building on the foundation laid during initiation, this episode explores how to translate a project’s vision into a clear, actionable roadmap. Eric breaks down the essential planning activities, including defining scope, building schedules, estimating costs, engaging stakeholders, tailoring your project approach, and preparing your team for success. Whether you're managing your first project or refining your leadership style, this episode gives you the clarity and confidence to lead the planning phase with purpose and precision. 🎧 A conversation about starting the project. Starting well generally means ending well. Send us a message and let’s connect! Support Our Show On Apple Podcasts! Support Us On YouTube by Subscribing! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Support the show to help us continue! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2449509/support | |||
| Setting The Project Rhythm | 17 Aug 2025 | 00:17:54 | |
In Episode 10 of The Change Agent, Eric explores how to set the right rhythm as you step into project management or leadership. From establishing a steady cadence of communication to aligning people, processes, and tools, this episode shows how rhythm brings clarity, accountability, and predictability to your team. Highlights include building trust through consistent leadership, practicing clear and empathetic communication, and focusing on execution without micromanaging. Whether you’re leading your first project or refining your leadership style, this episode will help you create a rhythm that keeps your team aligned, motivated, and moving forward. 🎧 A conversation about the importance of setting the rhythm of the project. Send us a message and let’s connect! Support Our Show On Apple Podcasts! Support Us On YouTube by Subscribing! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Support the show to help us continue! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2449509/support | |||
| Leading with Emotional Intelligence | 10 Feb 2025 | 00:08:16 | |
In this episode of the Change Agent, we dive into the power of Emotional Intelligence (EQ) in leadership and how it can transform team dynamics. Great leaders aren’t just skilled in strategy—they understand emotions, build trust, and foster collaboration. We break down the five key components of EQ, explore why it’s essential for project managers, and share actionable tips to develop self-awareness, empathy, and strong communication skills. Whether you’re leading a remote team or managing a fast-paced project, mastering EQ can make all the difference. Tune in to learn how to lead with confidence, navigate challenges with emotional awareness, and create a motivated, high-performing team. 🎧 A conversation about thriving with mastery of emotional intelligence. Send us a message and let’s connect! Support Our Show On Apple Podcasts! Support Us On YouTube by Subscribing! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Support the show to help us continue! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2449509/support | |||
| From Plan to Action | 19 May 2025 | 00:29:49 | |
In Episode 8 of The Change Agent, host Eric dives into the Execution phase of the project life cycle—where plans meet reality and leadership is tested. Learn how to guide your team with clarity, protect project scope, keep stakeholders engaged, and deliver true value. This episode is packed with practical advice for staying focused, adaptable, and resilient as you move from strategy to action. If you’re in the thick of project delivery or preparing to lead your next big initiative, this episode will help you lead with confidence and purpose. 🎧 A conversation about transitioning from the plan you've made to the execution of the project. Send us a message and let’s connect! Support Our Show On Apple Podcasts! Support Us On YouTube by Subscribing! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Support the show to help us continue! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2449509/support | |||
| Team Building and Introduction to Empathetic Leadership | 10 Feb 2025 | 00:09:42 | |
In this first episode of The Change Agent, we dive into one of the most critical aspects of leadership—building a strong, motivated team. A project is only as successful as the team behind it, and as a leader, your role is to foster trust, collaboration, and a shared purpose. I share real-world experiences from my 27-year career, exploring the difference between simply assembling a team and intentionally building one that thrives. We’ll cover key strategies like empathetic leadership, psychological safety, and recognizing wins to drive motivation. Whether you're leading a remote team, stepping into a new role, or looking to energize your current team, this episode will give you practical tools to elevate your leadership and create a culture of success. Tune in and be the Change Agent your organization needs!
Send us a message and let’s connect! Support Our Show On Apple Podcasts! Support Us On YouTube by Subscribing! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Support the show to help us continue! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2449509/support | |||
| Primer to Project Management | 31 Mar 2025 | 00:27:38 | |
Welcome to Season 2 of The Change Agent podcast! We’re kicking off this new season with fresh perspectives, and deeper insights. Send us a message and let’s connect! Support Our Show On Apple Podcasts! Support Us On YouTube by Subscribing! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Support the show to help us continue! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2449509/support | |||
| Closing with a Purpose | 28 Oct 2025 | 00:52:51 | |
Closing with Purpose: Finishing Well and Delivering Lasting Value Every project begins with energy and ambition — but how it ends defines its true success. In this season finale, we explore the often-overlooked art of project closure through the lens of the PMI framework and real-world leadership practice. From validating deliverables and celebrating achievements to applying lessons learned and sustaining value long after the final report, this episode dives deep into what it means to finish well. You’ll learn how great leaders turn closure into transformation — ensuring that every project leaves behind not just results, but resilience, culture, and continuity. Whether you’re a project manager, a team lead, or simply someone guiding change, this conversation will help you close your next chapter with purpose — and prepare for the next one with clarity. 🎧 A conversation about thriving with mastery of emotional intelligence. Send us a message and let’s connect! Support Our Show On Apple Podcasts! Support Us On YouTube by Subscribing! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Support the show to help us continue! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2449509/support | |||
| Truth Under Threat - Nobel Laureate Oleksandra Matviichuk | 02 Mar 2026 | 00:38:22 | |
Nobel Peace Prize laureate Oleksandra Matviichuk, Chairwoman of Ukraine’s Center for Civil Liberties (CCL), joins Eric with The Change Agent Podcast to examine the future of international justice, accountability, and civilian protection amid Russia’s ongoing aggression against Ukraine. Ukraine is now a full State Party to the International Criminal Court (ICC). Arrest warrants have been issued for Vladimir Putin and other senior Russian officials. Yet enforcement depends on state cooperation, and the crimes against Ukrainian civilians continue. What does international justice actually achieve in wartime? Do arrest warrants matter without an international police force? And how can accountability gaps—particularly the crime of aggression—be addressed? In this in-depth conversation, Matviichuk discusses: • ICC enforcement challenges and jurisdictional limits • The crime of aggression and calls for a Special Tribunal • Systemic civilian detention under Russian occupation • Torture, deportation, and the documentation of crimes against humanity • Frozen Russian assets and reparations mechanisms • The psychological toll of documenting atrocities • Justice as a parallel track to peace negotiations • Leadership, hope, and long-term responsibility This episode explores Ukraine, international law, war crimes accountability, human rights advocacy, and the global consequences of impunity. It is a conversation about truth, power, and the difficult path toward justice. -------------- Ukraine's Center for Civil Liberties Oleksandra Matviichuk LinkedIn ----------------- CREDITS ----------------- Music: The Surge by Cody Martin - Soundstripe ContentID: SVONXLZ13HJQWTT4 --------------- Production Lead: Tonya Bulgakova (Ukraine) - --------------- Graphics and Video Introduction: Voice: ElevenLabs (Intro Voice); Graphics and Video created by Andrii Horkavyi (Ukraine) Find Andrii's Work Here Video Clips: Video by Dmytro Glazunov and Support Our Show On Apple Podcasts! Support Us On YouTube by Subscribing! | |||
| Interview with Tonya Bulgakova | 24 Aug 2025 | 00:52:55 | |
In this special episode of The Change Agent, Eric sits down with Tonya Bulgakova for the show’s first-ever interview and video podcast. Tonya shares her remarkable journey of moving countries, stepping into new leadership roles, and learning to adapt across cultures and organizations. Together, they explore how relocation shaped her management style, the challenges she faced—from language barriers to balancing family and career—and the ways she built credibility and trust in a new environment. Tonya also reflects on the freedoms and responsibilities of leadership, how her goals have evolved, and what it truly takes to influence team climate and success. This conversation is packed with lessons on resilience, empathy, and growth for anyone navigating leadership in today’s changing world. 🎧 An interview with project manager, Tonya Bulgakova. Send us a message and let’s connect! Support Our Show On Apple Podcasts! Support Us On YouTube by Subscribing! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Support the show to help us continue! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2449509/support | |||
| The Philosophy of Leadership | 05 Mar 2025 | 00:10:24 | |
In this episode of Philosophy of Leadership we explore how stoic philosophy can help project managers stay calm, focused, and effective in high-pressure environments. Learn how to control what you can, embrace challenges as opportunities for growth, and lead with logic instead of emotion. Tune in for practical insights that will transform the way you approach leadership and decision-making in your projects. Lead wisely. 🎧 A conversation about excelling in leadership using wisdom as your weapon. Send us a message and let’s connect! Support Our Show On Apple Podcasts! Support Us On YouTube by Subscribing! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Support the show to help us continue! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2449509/support | |||
| Managing Imposter Syndrome | 11 Mar 2025 | 00:12:32 | |
Stepping into a leadership role can feel exciting—but also intimidating. If you’ve ever doubted your abilities, feared being "found out," or questioned whether you truly belong in your role, you’re not alone. Imposter syndrome affects even the most accomplished leaders, and it can hold you back from reaching your full potential. Send us a message and let’s connect! Support Our Show On Apple Podcasts! Support Us On YouTube by Subscribing! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Support the show to help us continue! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2449509/support | |||
| Experiences in Leadership | 05 May 2025 | 00:40:24 | |
In this reflective and deeply personal episode of The Change Agent, host Eric shares real-life leadership moments and the hard-earned lessons behind them. Through eight powerful stories—from navigating team disengagement and facing burnout to confronting greed, career disillusionment, and the illusion of irreplaceability—Eric pulls back the curtain on what leadership really looks like beyond the title. Each story is paired with a candid, actionable learning lesson designed to help you lead with integrity, protect your well-being, and find clarity in the often messy reality of professional life. If you’ve ever questioned the balance between career ambition and personal fulfillment, this episode is for you. 🎧 A conversation about Eric's experiences in leadership. Send us a message and let’s connect! Support Our Show On Apple Podcasts! Support Us On YouTube by Subscribing! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Support the show to help us continue! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2449509/support | |||
| From Contributor to Leader | 10 Feb 2025 | 00:11:16 | |
Welcome back and to Episode 7 with The Change Agent. In today's episode, we are making the leap from contributor to leader, and it is one of the biggest transitions in a professional career—and it can feel overwhelming. In this episode of we break down the essential mindset shifts, strategies, and pitfalls to avoid as you step into leadership. Learn how to build credibility, communicate effectively, and set yourself up for long-term success. Whether you're leading a team for the first time or looking to refine your approach, this episode will give you the confidence and tools to lead with impact. 🎧 A conversation about transitioning from doer to leader. Send us a message and let’s connect! Support Our Show On Apple Podcasts! Support Us On YouTube by Subscribing! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Support the show to help us continue! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2449509/support | |||
| Project Performance | 02 Oct 2025 | 00:31:01 | |
In this episode of The Change Agent, we explore how new project managers can track the initial performance of their programs without getting lost in complex formulas. Drawing on practical experience in program management, risk, and efficiency measurement, we break down how to recognize early signs of underperformance or overperformance, what those signals mean, and how to take corrective action. Listeners will gain simple tools to monitor project health, communicate trends to stakeholders, and build credibility from day one. Whether you are leading your first project or refining your skills, this episode will help you approach performance tracking with clarity, confidence, and purpose. 🎧 A conversation about the importance of tracking and managing your project's performance. Send us a message and let’s connect! Support Our Show On Apple Podcasts! Support Us On YouTube by Subscribing! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Support the show to help us continue! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2449509/support | |||
| Traits of Good Leadership | 10 Feb 2025 | 00:14:45 | |
The Change Agent is your go-to podcast for real, no-nonsense conversations about leadership, project management, and team dynamics. Hosted by Eric, this show dives deep into what it truly means to lead—whether you're managing a remote team, building trust, or navigating the challenges of modern leadership. In each episode, we break down essential leadership traits, share practical strategies, and explore how to inspire and motivate your team effectively. If you’re looking to transform your leadership approach and become the kind of leader people want to follow, tune in and start driving real change in your organization. 🎧 A conversation about developing traits that make a good leader. Send us a message and let’s connect! Support Our Show On Apple Podcasts! Support Us On YouTube by Subscribing! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Support the show to help us continue! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2449509/support | |||
| Managing Team Conflict | 10 Feb 2025 | 00:10:48 | |
In this episode of The Change Agent, we dive into the complex world of team dysfunction and how to resolve it. Hosted by Eric, we explore the key challenges leaders face, such as lack of trust, poor communication, unclear roles, avoiding conflict, and low accountability. With practical strategies like building trust through transparency, improving communication, clarifying roles, and fostering accountability, Eric shares actionable steps to turn dysfunction into a high-performing team. He also draws from a real-world example of managing an IT project, demonstrating how understanding underlying issues and addressing them early can prevent long-term problems. Tune in to learn how you can lead your team through the storming phase and start generating real value for your organization.
Send us a message and let’s connect! Support Our Show On Apple Podcasts! Support Us On YouTube by Subscribing! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Support the show to help us continue! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2449509/support | |||
| Generational Leadership | 02 Sep 2025 | 00:28:18 | |
Generations don’t just mark time—they shape the way we lead, work, and imagine the future. Today’s workplaces bring together Gen X pragmatism, Millennial collaboration, and Gen Z’s bold digital fluency, often in the same meeting room. The result? A fascinating mix of perspectives that can either create tension or drive innovation. In this episode of The Change Agent, we explore how leadership looks through the lens of each generation, the shifting definitions of work ethic, and what happens when experience meets fresh ideas in real time. 🎧 A conversation about how managing across the generational spectrum is more important than you think. Send us a message and let’s connect! Support Our Show On Apple Podcasts! Support Us On YouTube by Subscribing! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Support the show to help us continue! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2449509/support | |||
| Complexity and Uncertainty in Projects | 08 Mar 2025 | 00:13:53 | |
In this episode of The Change Agent, we dive into one of the biggest challenges in project management—navigating complexity and uncertainty. No project follows a perfect script, and as a leader, your ability to adapt, manage risks, and keep your team focused can make all the difference. Join Eric as he explores strategies rooted in the PMBOK Guide 7th Edition, focusing on flexibility over rigid planning, continuous risk management, transparent stakeholder communication, and building a resilient team. Learn how to embrace uncertainty, foster a culture of experimentation, and prepare for multiple scenarios—so you can lead your projects with confidence, no matter what challenges arise. If you're ready to take your project management skills to the next level, this episode is for you! Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a review, and visit thechangeagent.studio for more insights. 🎧 A conversation about handling complexity and uncertainty in your projects. Send us a message and let’s connect! Support Our Show On Apple Podcasts! Support Us On YouTube by Subscribing! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Support the show to help us continue! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2449509/support | |||
| Leading Yourself First: How Self-Leadership Shapes Stronger Teams with Dr. Kevin Mays | 15 Dec 2025 | 00:54:05 | |
Leadership doesn’t fail because of a lack of strategy — it fails when leaders lose clarity, ownership, and focus. In this episode of The Change Agent, Eric sits down with Dr. Kevin Mays, a transformative leadership coach, speaker, and author whose work centres on one core belief: true leadership begins with self-leadership. Dr. Mays shares what he sees behind the scenes when business owners and leaders feel stuck, overwhelmed, or stretched too thin — and why the real problems are often internal before they’re organisational. Drawing from his 5-Step Business Ascent process and personal leadership journey, Dr. Mays breaks down what effective leadership actually looks like in day-to-day life, not just in theory. This conversation challenges leaders to stop managing symptoms and start leading with intention — building clarity, accountability, and healthier team cultures from the inside out. What You’ll Learn in This Episode
Key Takeaway Leadership isn’t about doing more — it’s about leading better. About the Guest: Dr. Kevin Mays Dr. Kevin Mays is a leadership coach, speaker, and author dedicated to helping leaders and organisations move beyond survival and into sustainable growth. Through his coaching and frameworks, including the 5-Step Business Ascent process, Dr. Mays helps leaders strengthen self-leadership, build clarity, and create environments where people and businesses can thrive. About the Podcast The Change Agent is a podcast for leaders who refuse to stay comfortable. Links https://www.upgradeyourleadership.com https://www.maysleadership.com https://www.kalyna-vision.com Send us a message and let’s connect! Support Our Show On Apple Podcasts! Support Us On YouTube by Subscribing! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Support the show to help us continue! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2449509/support | |||
| Project Performance Domains | 21 Apr 2025 | 00:30:02 | |
In Episode 4 of Season 2 of The Change Agent podcast, we explore the essential framework of the Project Performance Domains as outlined in the PMBOK® Guide – Seventh Edition. Designed for both new and experienced project leaders, this episode offers a practical, conversational look at the nine performance domains that shape successful project delivery: Stakeholder, Team, Development Approach and Life Cycle, Planning, Project Work, Delivery, Measurement, and Uncertainty. We break down how each domain contributes to effective project outcomes, highlights best practices, and helps project managers lead with clarity and confidence in today’s dynamic environments. Whether you're preparing for PMP certification or simply looking to sharpen your leadership, this episode is packed with real-world insights to help you thrive. 🎧 A conversation about the domains of project management. Send us a message and let’s connect! Support Our Show On Apple Podcasts! Support Us On YouTube by Subscribing! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Support the show to help us continue! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2449509/support | |||
| Leading Without Authority | 10 Feb 2025 | 00:10:12 | |
Leadership isn’t about titles—it’s about influence. In this episode of The Change Agent, we explore how to lead effectively when you don’t have formal authority. Whether you're a new project manager, leading a cross-functional team, or stepping up in your role, you'll learn practical strategies to build credibility, communicate persuasively, and foster strong relationships that drive success. Tune in for actionable insights that will help you inspire and influence your team—no title required! 🎧 A conversation about learning to lead when you're necessarily the one with authority. Send us a message and let’s connect! Support Our Show On Apple Podcasts! Support Us On YouTube by Subscribing! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Support the show to help us continue! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2449509/support | |||
| Motivating Remote Teams | 10 Feb 2025 | 00:14:02 | |
Welcome to Episode 4 of The Change Agent, the podcast that equips leaders, managers, and professionals with the strategies they need to drive success in today’s dynamic workplaces. Hosted by Eric, we tackle real-world challenges in leadership, team management, remote collaboration, project execution, and empathetic leadership. Each episode delivers practical insights, actionable strategies, and engaging stories to help you build strong teams, foster trust, and inject value into your organization—fast. Whether you’re navigating a tough project, leading a remote workforce, or looking to refine your leadership style, The Change Agent is your go-to resource for making a lasting impact. Subscribe now and become the leader your team needs. 🎧 A conversation about the challenges and solutions to motivating remote teams. Send us a message and let’s connect! Support Our Show On Apple Podcasts! Support Us On YouTube by Subscribing! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Support the show to help us continue! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2449509/support | |||
| Focusing On Value | 14 Apr 2025 | 00:23:44 | |
In this value-packed episode of The Change Agent, host Eric explores the foundational elements of project management through a practical lens, focusing on what truly drives successful outcomes—value. From understanding how to create and deliver value within the Value Delivery System to navigating the internal and external project environments, Eric breaks down key concepts from the PMBOK® Guide – Seventh Edition in an accessible and conversational way. The episode also dives into core Project Management Principles like responsibility, respect, fairness, and honesty, offering actionable insights for both new and seasoned project leaders. Whether you're leading complex projects or just stepping into project management, this episode will help you sharpen your perspective and lead with purpose. 🎧 A conversation about checking and improving value in your project. Send us a message and let’s connect! Support Our Show On Apple Podcasts! Support Us On YouTube by Subscribing! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Support the show to help us continue! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2449509/support | |||
| The Management Primer | 10 Feb 2025 | 00:10:13 | |
Welcome to The Change Agent Podcast! In this episode, we lay the foundation for those stepping into project management or leadership for the first time. We’ll dive into the core project management skills you need to succeed—without getting lost in the technical details. This episode will prepare you for the structured concepts we'll cover in Episode 11. Join Eric as he walks through essential leadership qualities such as clarity, empathy, decisiveness, and adaptability. Learn how to balance people, processes, and technology to drive results and motivate your team. Get practical tips on communication, prioritization, execution, and follow-through that will help you succeed as a project manager and leader. Whether you’re new to project management or looking to sharpen your skills, this episode is for you. Tune in to start building the leadership mindset and essential skills that will guide you through successful projects and empowered teams. 🎧 A conversation about getting ready for management. To prepare here is to prepare for success. Support Our Show On Apple Podcasts! - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-change-agent/id1799999172 Send us a message and let’s connect! Support Our Show On Apple Podcasts! Support Us On YouTube by Subscribing! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Support the show to help us continue! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2449509/support | |||
| Crisis Management - Interview with Sophia Klewer of Prevency | 11 Nov 2025 | 00:51:45 | |
In this episode of The Change Agent, host Eric Adams sits down with Sophia Klewer, Chief Operating Officer of PREVENCY®, a fast-growing European startup specialising in digital resilience and crisis management. Sophia shares her deep expertise from working with international businesses, defence clients, and public sector organisations, helping them navigate cyber threats, disinformation, and organisational crises. Together, Eric and Sophia explore how to define a crisis, why effective management is essential, and how leaders can adapt their strategies to different stakeholders’ needs when chaos strikes. From decision-making under pressure to lessons learned through real-world challenges, this conversation offers practical insights for leaders who want to build resilience in their teams and organisations. 🎯 Key Topics:
📚 About Sophia: 🎧 Available on Buzzsprout, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube. Please don't forget to support the show and be a part of the Change Agent Family! Send us a message and let’s connect! Support Our Show On Apple Podcasts! Support Us On YouTube by Subscribing! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Support the show to help us continue! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2449509/support | |||
| Leadership in Transition - Zoe Price | 16 Mar 2026 | 00:45:35 | |
Executive careers are not stalling because leaders lack capability. They are stalling because the rules have changed. In this episode of The Change Agent, I sit down with Zoe Price, CEO of Resume Pilots, to explore what is really happening in today’s leadership market. This is not a tactical conversation about CV formatting. It is a deeper discussion about generational transition, shrinking decision timelines, succession gaps, and the unintended consequences of short-term thinking inside organizations. We discuss why many Gen X leaders are experiencing a loss of traction despite strong performance, how internal talent acquisition has replaced traditional recruitment models, and why institutional knowledge is quietly eroding in large companies. We examine the risks of external “borrowed credibility,” the disappearance of long-term succession planning, and what happens when experience is undervalued in favor of speed.We also explore: - Why the traditional career “playbook” no longer works. - The danger of pushing experienced leaders out too early - The hidden cost of replacing maturity with lower salary - The shift from execution to strategic leadership in the C-suite - Why emotional resistance to change can stall capable leaders - How velocity of change is reshaping hiring and promotion decisions This conversation is for leaders navigating redundancy, stalled promotions, generational shifts, or the move into executive management. It is also for organizations questioning whether short-term thinking is undermining long-term stability. Timestamps: 00:00 Introduction 02:00 Why capable leaders are losing traction 05:30 Generational differences in career progression 07:00 Contracted timeframes and velocity of change 10:15 The shift to internal talent acquisition 14:00 Unlocking the hidden job market 16:00 LinkedIn, visibility, and signal 18:30 Being interviewed by younger leaders 22:30 What happens when experience leaves organisations 27:00 The military drawdown analogy and succession gaps 30:00 The true cost of replacing experience 36:00 Why companies hire externally If leadership is about judgement, context, and long-term thinking, this episode asks a difficult question: are we undervaluing the very experience that protects organizations from repeating costly mistakes? Resume Pilots WebsiteResume Pilots on LinkedIn Subscribe to the podcast! Music: Neon Beach - What Actually Happened ContentID: VCXLCFZIIDZADT25 Sourced from Soundstripe Support Our Show On Apple Podcasts! Support Us On YouTube by Subscribing! | |||
| Navigate What You Cannot Control | Leadership, Crisis & Complexity with Thomas Jepson-Lay | 08 Feb 2026 | 00:35:36 | |
Leadership is often judged by confidence and certainty. But in reality, the most defining moments of leadership occur when clarity disappears. In this episode of The Change Agent, Eric Adams is joined by Thomas Jepson-Lay, executive coach and former senior humanitarian leader, to explore what leadership actually demands when control is impossible. Drawing on nearly two decades leading emergency responses across conflict zones and disaster environments, Thomas unpacks:
This is not a conversation about tools or techniques. If you lead people, teams, or systems in high-stakes environments — this episode will challenge how you think about control, authority, and decision-making. Learn more about Thomas Jepson-Lay and his mission: https://www.thomasjepsonlay.com/ Check out his podcast - The Sector Debrief Send us a message and let’s connect! Support Our Show On Apple Podcasts! Support Us On YouTube by Subscribing! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Support the show to help us continue! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2449509/support | |||
| Beyond The Comfort Zone with Tony Gunn | 23 Feb 2026 | 00:25:57 | |
Most leadership doesn’t fail because of a lack of intelligence, strategy, or ambition. It fails because of ego, comfort, and the refusal to listen. Support Our Show On Apple Podcasts! Support Us On YouTube by Subscribing! | |||
| Tailoring a Project | 29 Apr 2025 | 00:28:18 | |
In this episode of The Change Agent, we explore the powerful and essential concept of Tailoring in modern project management. Drawing from the PMBOK® Guide Seventh Edition, this 30-minute session demystifies what tailoring really means, why it matters, and how new and experienced project managers alike can apply it to deliver meaningful results. We examine real-world examples of how tailoring supports different project environments, discuss common pitfalls, and show how tailoring connects directly to the Project Performance Domains and core principles. Whether you're managing your first project or leading high-stakes initiatives, this episode will help you move beyond rigid processes and embrace the art and science of adaptability. 🎧 A conversation about how to tailor a project. Send us a message and let’s connect! Support Our Show On Apple Podcasts! Support Us On YouTube by Subscribing! --------------------------------------------------------------------------------- Support the show to help us continue! https://www.buzzsprout.com/2449509/support | |||
| Ukraine's Hidden Resistance - Amber French Griette and The Change Agent Podcast | 26 May 2026 | 01:09:06 | |
Amber French-Griette leads the Organization for Nonviolent Movements in France and has spent more than a decade studying how ordinary people defend freedom without weapons. In this episode she breaks down the discipline behind that work, what over 420 documented nonviolent tactics look like in practice, and why Ukraine's civilian resistance is not a footnote to its military campaign but a second channel of power operating alongside it. She talks through the inaugural issue of the journal Across Fault Lines, published in partnership with Columbia University Press, which makes the case that Europe is leaving real power on the table by not understanding what Ukraine's civic shield is actually doing. The conversation also goes into what leadership feels like eight months into building an organization at the edge of a conflict, working across defense circles where these ideas are still far from mainstream. Hit play if you want a different frame for understanding what is happening in Ukraine. 00:00 Introduction 00:55 How the war in Ukraine reshaped ONM's work 02:34 Defining strategic nonviolent conflict and unarmed civilian defense 05:21 Ukraine's civilian resistance beyond the battlefield 10:16 The 420 documented tactics and how they function 17:25 Preserving Ukrainian cultural heritage as frontline defense 21:14 Across Fault Lines: the inaugural journal and its arguments 28:23 Oleksandra Matviichuk and the human dimension of the war 33:23 Partnering with the countering violent extremism world 47:01 Leading an early-stage organization with a large mission 54:52 How ONM measures impact and what success looks like Amber French-Griette LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amber-french-griette Amber French-Griette at ICNC: https://www.nonviolent-conflict.org/contributor/amber-french/ Organization for Nonviolent Movements: https://nonviolent-movements.org/ Our Stuff Our website: https://www.thechangeagent.studio Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/TheChangeAgentPodcast Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-change-agent-podcast/id1794550342 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4LoAakYrrg60ld766wKqto?si=OjaQfNF9RbiRH1GCzxOtsw Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thechangeagentpodcast?igsh=OXRoZmp5Z2FhdjJm Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1WtowvBVkr/?mibextid=wwXIfr Music licensed via Soundstripe Song: Healed Artist: Cody Martin ContentID: OGHSFOKWVFH214LU | |||
| Mothers Still Waiting - Ukraine - Mariam Lambert and The Emile Foundation - The Change Agent Podcast | 22 May 2026 | 01:08:13 | |
The Emile Foundation works two cases: 48 infants from the Kherson orphanage and children with disabilities from the Oleshky boarding school, all with living relatives waiting, in many cases without a word, for years. Finding one child can take two months or several years. The Russians are the only ones who can authorise a release. Every country, every institution failed these children. One recent peace proposal offered armistice with no accountability for war crimes. Treating oil access as a higher priority than stolen children is not diplomacy. Childhood has an expiry date. That lands differently once you have heard a mother describe finding a single memory, a ballet lesson her daughter half-remembered, to convince a child she was her mother.
05:10 From volunteer to full-time: the moment Mariam chose this life 10:00 What it costs to walk away from security for a cause 15:30 The scale of Russia's child deportation operation 20:45 How the crime extended to teachers, nurses, and businesses 25:00 The Emile Foundation's two pilot cases and the return process 30:00 What families go through while they wait 36:00 The international community: an honest assessment 42:30 Peace deals, accountability, and why armistice without justice fails victims 48:30 The Seven Women Seven Lives campaign and the mothers still waiting 54:30 Why return and justice must run in parallel 57:00 How Mariam stays in it Mariam Lambert LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mariam-lambert-43527a3a/ Emile Foundation Website: https://emilefoundation.org/ Our Stuff Our website: https://www.thechangeagent.studio Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/TheChangeAgentPodcast Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-change-agent-podcast/id1794550342 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4LoAakYrrg60ld766wKqto?si=OjaQfNF9RbiRH1GCzxOtsw Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thechangeagentpodcast?igsh=OXRoZmp5Z2FhdjJm Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1WtowvBVkr/?mibextid=wwXIfr Music licensed via Soundstripe Song: Winds of Change Artist: Four Trees ContentID: RKQSKSJCG9XNSTHB | |||
| The Blueprint for Change - Wani Iris Manly | 19 May 2026 | 00:43:14 | |
Wani Iris Manly is an attorney, keynote speaker, and strategic advisor who left a successful law career in Miami to start over in Paris with no contacts, no plan, and no certainty about what came next. In this episode, she explains why most organizations misread resistance as a process problem when it is actually a fear of identity loss, and what leaders should do about it. She walks through her six-part Change Blueprint framework, shares the self-destructive pattern she sees most often in high achievers, and argues that change is a skillset to be built rather than an event to manage. Her closing message is one she developed on the streets of Paris when she had nothing but the decision she had made: success is inevitable, but only if you stop making failure an option. If you are leading people through uncertainty right now, this one is worth your time. Wani Iris Manly Strategic Advisory: https://wanimanly.com/strategic-advisory/ Wani Iris Manly LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/wani-iris-manly-esq-44510a5a/ Our Stuff Our website: https://www.thechangeagent.studio Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/TheChangeAgentPodcast Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-change-agent-podcast/id1794550342 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4LoAakYrrg60ld766wKqto?si=OjaQfNF9RbiRH1GCzxOtsw Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thechangeagentpodcast?igsh=OXRoZmp5Z2FhdjJm Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1WtowvBVkr/?mibextid=wwXIfr Music licensed via Soundstripe Song: Studied Abroad Artist: Neon Beach ContentID: TMU3DXXJUIZOODH2 | |||
| Dr. Kevin Mays - Upgrade Your Leadership | 28 Apr 2026 | 00:51:35 | |
Dr. Kevin Mays returns to The Change Agent Podcast for a third conversation, and this one gets uncomfortably honest. The episode explores why capable leaders crack under pressure, why authority becomes a trap, and what the inner work of real leadership actually demands. Dr. Mays draws on his new book, Upgrade Your Leadership, to explain the neuroscience behind reactive behavior and the practices that can change it. If this conversation makes you think differently about how you show up as a leader, subscribing and leaving a review helps the show reach more people who need it. The conversation opens with a question Dr. Mays keeps encountering: why do high performers fail the moment they have to lead people? Their identity is built around being right. That attachment blocks curiosity, breeds reactivity, and creates a blind spot no framework fixes. He introduces the robot brain and the caveman brain to explain how neural programming formed in early childhood gets reactivated under pressure decades later, producing the anger and defensiveness that leaders mistake for strength. Disengagement in an organization is a mirror. If people are checked out and the person at the top is pointing fingers, they are looking in the wrong direction. The fear that building capable, independent people makes you redundant is just the old scripting running the show again. The episode closes with the one discipline everything else depends on: presence. Two minutes of focused breathing, done consistently, rewires the circuitry. That is where the upgrade begins 00:00 Introduction and context
Our website: https://www.thechangeagent.studio Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/TheChangeAgentPodcast Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-change-agent-podcast/id1794550342 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4LoAakYrrg60ld766wKqto?si=OjaQfNF9RbiRH1GCzxOtsw Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thechangeagentpodcast?igsh=OXRoZmp5Z2FhdjJm Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1WtowvBVkr/?mibextid=wwXIfr
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| Dr. Valentina Schneider - Know Your Empathy | 20 Apr 2026 | 00:52:29 | |
Dr. Valentina Schneider returns to The Change Agent for a second conversation, and this one gets into the research that most leadership advice skips. Valentina recently moved from her PhD work at London Business School into applied leadership advisory, and she brings both the data and the real-world context to bear on a single, uncomfortable question: what if the empathy leaders are praised for is actually making them less effective? The episode centers on the difference between cognitive and affective empathy, two distinct processes that science has long separated but leadership training still treats as one. Valentina walks through what each type looks like in practice, why one produces better outcomes across nearly every leadership scenario her research examined, and what happens neurologically when a leader absorbs the emotional state of the room rather than reading it. The conversation also covers narcissism, vulnerability, anger management, and the specific pressures female leaders face. If you lead people or work alongside leaders, this episode is worth your time. 00:00 Introduction and Valentina's transition to industry 05:00 Why empathy became a top leadership demand after COVID 08:00 Cognitive vs affective empathy explained 12:00 How each type of empathy plays out when letting someone go 16:00 Emotional contagion and why it makes leaders change course 20:00 The bias problem inside affective empathy 27:00 Cognitive empathy as the leadership superpower 33:00 Empathy, gender labels, and the authority double standard 38:00 Using empathy to defuse anger in the room 43:00 Vulnerability at work and when it backfires 48:00 One thing every leader should take away Dr. Valentina Schneider LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/valentina-sara-schneider-phd/ Our Stuff Our website: https://www.thechangeagent.studio Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/c/TheChangeAgentPodcast Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-change-agent-podcast/id1794550342 Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/4LoAakYrrg60ld766wKqto?si=OjaQfNF9RbiRH1GCzxOtsw Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thechangeagentpodcast?igsh=OXRoZmp5Z2FhdjJm Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1WtowvBVkr/?mibextid=wwXIfr Music licensed via Soundstripe Song: Studied Abroad Artist: Neon Beach ContentID: LQIWHSG1OOG3LI3I | |||
| Behind It All - with Eric Adams | 18 Apr 2026 | 00:24:15 | |
Eric Adams started The Change Agent Podcast in February 2025 with a conviction that leadership had a personal side most shows were ignoring. In this episode, the camera turns around. Producer Tonya sits down with Eric to ask the questions he normally asks everyone else: why he built this, what it costs, and where he intends to take it. The podcast began as an audio-only experiment in basic management principles. But somewhere in that first year, Eric noticed he kept gravitating toward something harder to teach: what actually makes a person worth following. The episodes shifted. Empathetic leadership. Leading under conflict. The structural content gave way to the personal, and the show found its footing. The move to video in early 2026 was not just a format change. Eric describes it as a shift in the relationship with the listener. Video demands your eyes. That demand, they found, matched the weight of the conversations they were starting to have. Tonya pulls back the curtain on what one episode actually takes: roughly 40 hours of work before a single frame records. Guest research. Question development. One-sheets. Pre-conversations. The workflow that holds it together. Eric talks about what keeps that effort going across more than a year, and the answer has two parts. The first is mission. The second is competitive: he wants this to be the best podcast out there, and he means it. The conversation lands on what Eric believes every guest on the show has shared, regardless of their field or their stakes. He names Valentina Schneider, Oleksandra Matviichuk, Olga Rudnieva as examples. Not one of them, he says, led with process. Every single one led with care. That thread, running through every episode, is what the show is really about. What Eric wants in two years is not a follower count. He wants the Change Agent Podcast to be the name that comes to mind when someone hears about consequential leadership and asks where they can learn more. If you have never listened before, this is the episode that shows you exactly what you would be signing up for. 00:00 Introduction and why this episode is different 02:25 From audio only to video and what changed 04:20 The hardest part of hosting: research and tonal switching 06:18 What every great guest has had in common 08:13 How the show filters and sometimes turns away guests 11:45 Where the show is headed in two years 13:27 Why this podcast matters to Eric personally 15:16 What keeps the work going after more than a year 18:17 Every episode is a different canvas. Our Stuff Our website: https://www.thechangeagent.studio Music: Studied Abroad - by Neon Beach ContentID (Soundstripe): ARAFPVTBKIQCY9ZD | |||
| The Art of Neuro-Focused Leadership - with Gillian Nycum | 13 Apr 2026 | 00:48:50 | |
Gillian Nycum works at the intersection of neuroscience, neurodiversity, and systems thinking. In this episode, she argues that effective leadership starts with understanding how the nervous system shapes behavior under pressure, not just in theory but in the moments when it matters most. If this conversation is useful to you, subscribing and leaving a review helps The Change Agent Podcast reach more people doing this kind of work. She opens with the distinction between neurodiversity and neuropluralism, and the cost of organizations built around a single dominant neurotype. Neurodivergent employees spend their energy conforming rather than contributing what makes them distinctive. From there she walks through what happens when fear activates in a leader who knows they should act, her framework of practice, skill, and humility for closing that gap, and why shared vision consistently outperforms command and control when complexity increases. The closing argument is about presence. Leaders running on chronic urgency gradually lose the ability to sense what is actually happening around them. Staying regulated is not a wellness add-on. It is what makes effective leadership possible.
Gillian Nycum LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gillian-nycum/
Our website: https://www.thechangeagent.studio
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