The Leadership Project Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

Leadership lives in the moments people spend with you—every check-in, every decision explained, every hard conversation you choose to have. To celebrate 300 episodes, we pull together the clearest patterns from hundreds of leaders, psychologists, authors, and operators and turn them into practical moves you can use tomorrow.

We start with meaning. People don’t just want a job; they want to know why their work matters and who benefits. You’ll hear how to connect the macro why of your team’s purpose with the micro why behind tasks and decisions, so your people shift from compliance to care. From there, we go deep on emotional intelligence as modern table stakes: noticing and naming emotions, creating space to respond rather than react, and using empathy to choose actions that steady a room and strengthen trust.

Culture comes into focus through our relationship with failure and feedback. High-performing teams don’t dodge mistakes—they learn from them. We share a five-question daily reflection and the SBIA feedback framework to move from blame to systems and from avoidance to growth. We then explore diversity of thought and psychological safety as real performance levers: who gets heard, who gets interrupted, and how to reward healthy debate so inclusion becomes muscle, not motto. Finally, we highlight listening as a leadership superpower—reflecting back meaning, asking better questions, and helping people walk away clearer than they arrived.

You’ll also hear gratitude for the listeners, guests, and the team who make this community possible, plus a look at what’s next: deeper psychology in leadership, real-world Q&A, and more ways to connect. If this conversation sparks something, share it with a leader ready to grow, hit subscribe, and leave a quick review to help others find us. What small action will you take this week to make s

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The Executive Wins Podcast features inspiring Executives who share their biggest wins.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify

Support the show

✅ Follow The Leadership Project on your favourite podcast platform and listen to a new episode every week!

📝 Don’t forget to share your thoughts on the episode in the comments below.
 
🔔 Join us in our mission at The Leadership Project and learn more about our organisation here:  https://linktr.ee/mickspiers

📕 You can purchase a copy of the Mick Spiers bestselling book "You're a Leader, Now What?" as an eBook or paperback at Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09ZBKK8XV

If you would like a signed copy, please reach out to sei@mickspiers.com and we can arrange it for you too.

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What kind of leader are you becoming: one who earns trust or one who enforces compliance? We take a clear-eyed look at leadership through four lenses—service, courage, resilience, and inclusion—drawing on highlights from Steve Fortunato, Jim Fielding, Kijuan Amey, and Stephanie Chung to turn big ideas into practical actions you can use this week.

Steve’s insights on service and storytelling show why facts inform but stories transform, helping teams reconnect to purpose and feel seen. Jim’s journey across Disney and The Gap reveals how authenticity and empathy create safe speed during change, where people move faster because fear drops and clarity rises. Kijuan’s post‑traumatic growth reframes adversity with a powerful line—losing sight without losing vision—reminding us to ask “What now?” and bounce forward with intent. Stephanie’s ally leadership invites us to pay attention to our attention—what we reward and ignore—so we amplify quiet voices, embrace healthy conflict, and unlock the innovation that diverse teams naturally generate.

Across these themes, the message is simple: leadership is human. Presence beats perfection when you show up to serve, listen, and adapt. You’ll leave with four practical moves: share one authentic story that reconnects your team to purpose; lead with empathy by checking how people are doing, not just what they’re doing; after setbacks, identify the next small step within your control; and intentionally invite a voice that hasn’t been heard. We close with reflective prompts to help you align your actions with your values and build a culture where people don’t just follow—you earn their belief.

If this conversation sparked an insight, share it with a colleague, subscribe on YouTube or your favorite podcast app, and leave a quick review so others can find the show. Your support helps more leaders trade ego for empathy and certainty for curiosity.

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

✅ Follow The Leadership Project on your favourite podcast platform and listen to a new episode every week!

📝 Don’t forget to share your thoughts on the episode in the comments below.
 
🔔 Join us in our mission at The Leadership Project and learn more about our organisation here:  https://linktr.ee/mickspiers

📕 You can purchase a copy of the Mick Spiers bestselling book "You're a Leader, Now What?" as an eBook or paperback at Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09ZBKK8XV

If you would like a signed copy, please reach out to sei@mickspiers.com and we can arrange it for you too.

If you're thinking about starting a podcast or upgrading your hosting, Buzzsprout is a great option! This link will give both of us a $20 credit when you upgrade:

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What if the key to motivation and well-being isn’t finding your purpose, but first believing you’re worthy of having one? Zach Mercurio returns to The Leadership Project with a powerful insight: “It is almost impossible for anything to matter to someone who doesn’t first believe that they matter.” He explains why many self-help books and engagement programs fall short — because they overlook the human need to matter and feel significant to others.

In his new book The Power of Mattering, Zach reveals how feeling seen, valued, and needed drives our sense of purpose. When we feel we matter, we gain the confidence to add value — creating a cycle where feeling valued leads to contributing more. Yet in today’s rushed, digital world, our ability to connect deeply has faded. As Zach says, “Hurry and care cannot coexist.”

The solution lies in three simple habits: noticing others, affirming their impact, and needing them. These small acts cost nothing but can transform how people experience their worth. Zach challenges leaders to ask, “When you feel that you matter to me, what am I doing?” — and to do more of it. Because when people feel they matter, they do things that matter.

🌐 Connect with Zach:
• Website: https://www.zachmercurio.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/zachmercurio/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zachmercurio/

📚 You can purchase Zach's books on Amazon:
• The Power of Mattering: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0D8XMWCLJ/
• The Invisible Leader: https://www.amazon.com/dp/1599328518/

Send us Fan Mail

The Executive Wins Podcast features inspiring Executives who share their biggest wins.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify

Support the show

✅ Follow The Leadership Project on your favourite podcast platform and listen to a new episode every week!

📝 Don’t forget to share your thoughts on the episode in the comments below.
 
🔔 Join us in our mission at The Leadership Project and learn more about our organisation here:  https://linktr.ee/mickspiers

📕 You can purchase a copy of the Mick Spiers bestselling book "You're a Leader, Now What?" as an eBook or paperback at Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09ZBKK8XV

If you would like a signed copy, please reach out to sei@mickspiers.com and we can arrange it for you too.

If you're thinking about starting a podcast or upgrading your hosting, Buzzsprout is a great option! This link will give both of us a $20 credit when you upgrade:

👉 https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1701891

Create forms easily with Jotform! Sign up with my link: https://www.jotform.com/?referral=AkWimLxOBz

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Join us as we celebrate 200 episodes of The Leadership Project with a special reflection on the invaluable lessons from our distinguished guests. 

Discover the 6Cs of communication with Lisa Partridge and learn how conscious leadership and presence can make others feel seen and heard, as emphasized by Jennifer Mulholland, Jeff Shuck, Brendan Watt, and Pam Marcheski. 

Marvel at the transformative power of purpose, deep listening, and meaningful impact, highlighted by Kimberly Abbott, Zach Mercurio, Don Campbell, and Otto Sharma.

Unlock the secrets of effective communication and influence with insights from Oscar Trimboli on the art of deep listening. Learn how to follow curiosity for more meaningful conversations, inspired by Don Campbell's episode, and grasp the concept of becoming a multiplier in leadership through Irial O'Farrell and Liz Wiseman's wisdom. 

Understand the importance of psychological safety from Stephen Shedlesky, Heather Hansen, and Stefan Weidner, and dive into the critical themes of feedback, diversity, equity, and inclusion with expert insights from Aga Bajer, Molly McGrath, Martine Kalaw, Beth Ridley, Dr. Alessandra Wall, Yoshiko Stowell, and Lisa Tromba.

Mastering a high-performance mindset is crucial for leadership, and this episode covers it all—from Dr. John Demartini's insights on manifestation and values to Bryce Henson and Scott Mautz on resilience and stoicism. 

Learn Timothy Gallwey's equation of performance as potential minus interference, and hear a heartfelt reflection with my wife, Sei, on the leadership journey we've undertaken together. 

Don't miss our special competition announcement at the end, where you can win a prize by sharing your reflections on the show!

Send us Fan Mail

The Executive Wins Podcast features inspiring Executives who share their biggest wins.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify

Support the show

✅ Follow The Leadership Project on your favourite podcast platform and listen to a new episode every week!

📝 Don’t forget to share your thoughts on the episode in the comments below.
 
🔔 Join us in our mission at The Leadership Project and learn more about our organisation here:  https://linktr.ee/mickspiers

📕 You can purchase a copy of the Mick Spiers bestselling book "You're a Leader, Now What?" as an eBook or paperback at Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09ZBKK8XV

If you would like a signed copy, please reach out to sei@mickspiers.com and we can arrange it for you too.

If you're thinking about starting a podcast or upgrading your hosting, Buzzsprout is a great option! This link will give both of us a $20 credit when you upgrade:

👉 https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1701891

Create forms easily with Jotform! Sign up with my link: https://www.jotform.com/?referral=AkWimLxOBz

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Get ready to transform your leadership style entirely. Join us for an engaging discussion with Pam Marcheski, the mastermind behind Intentions to Actions Leadership. You'll learn how mindfulness can be a game-changer for decision-making and team performance. Pam shares her compelling journey from a high-stakes retail executive role to becoming a mindful leadership consultant, inspired by Dan Harris's "10% Happier." Discover practical steps you can take to be more present and intentional as a leader, creating mental space that enhances your ability to respond thoughtfully in any situation.

We tackle the critical components of resilience and self-awareness, emphasizing the transformative power of recognizing and embracing difficult emotions without judgment. Pam and I delve into the practice of noticing and naming feelings to manage reactions more effectively, enhancing your leadership capability. Learn to distinguish between your thoughts, emotions, and true self, and explore techniques like RAIN (Recognize, Allow, Investigate, Not Identify) that can revolutionize how you process emotions mindfully.

Lastly, we highlight the importance of presence in leadership, particularly in virtual settings. Discover how turning on your camera and eliminating distractions can significantly improve meeting focus and engagement. We'll guide you through creating a practical mindfulness kit filled with tools for daily life, including grounding techniques and sensory experiences. As we reflect on our leadership journey, we're grateful for our milestones and the support from our community. Dive in with us to embrace the power of mindfulness and elevate your leadership impact.

🌐 Connect with Pam:
• Website: https://intentact.com/
• LinkedIn: https

Send us Fan Mail

The Executive Wins Podcast features inspiring Executives who share their biggest wins.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify

Support the show

✅ Follow The Leadership Project on your favourite podcast platform and listen to a new episode every week!

📝 Don’t forget to share your thoughts on the episode in the comments below.
 
🔔 Join us in our mission at The Leadership Project and learn more about our organisation here:  https://linktr.ee/mickspiers

📕 You can purchase a copy of the Mick Spiers bestselling book "You're a Leader, Now What?" as an eBook or paperback at Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09ZBKK8XV

If you would like a signed copy, please reach out to sei@mickspiers.com and we can arrange it for you too.

If you're thinking about starting a podcast or upgrading your hosting, Buzzsprout is a great option! This link will give both of us a $20 credit when you upgrade:

👉 https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1701891

Create forms easily with Jotform! Sign up with my link: https://www.jotform.com/?referral=AkWimLxOBz

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Unlock the secrets to a more efficient recruitment process and become a mindful leader in our latest episode! 

Discover the hybrid approach to talent acquisition as Richard Triggs, CEO and founder of Arete Executive, shares his expertise on maximizing internal and external recruitment strategies. Learn how to craft precise job advertisements to attract the right candidates and speed up the hiring process. We’ll tackle the common frustrations faced by companies and candidates, from the prolonged search for talent to the lack of feedback during hiring. Get ready to redefine your recruitment strategy by clearly outlining the challenges and deliverables of open roles for a quicker, better match.

But that's not all! We also explore the transformative power of mindfulness in leadership with Pam Marcheski. Uncover how mindfulness can enhance your decision-making abilities, boost leadership qualities, and create a thriving organizational culture. Plus, we dive into the intriguing Dartmouth facial scar experiment, exploring perceptions of bias in job interviews. 

This episode is packed with practical advice and expert insights to help you navigate the dynamic landscapes of recruitment and leadership. 

Don’t forget to rate and review us on Apple Podcasts, and stay connected for more engaging content on YouTube, LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram!

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

✅ Follow The Leadership Project on your favourite podcast platform and listen to a new episode every week!

📝 Don’t forget to share your thoughts on the episode in the comments below.
 
🔔 Join us in our mission at The Leadership Project and learn more about our organisation here:  https://linktr.ee/mickspiers

📕 You can purchase a copy of the Mick Spiers bestselling book "You're a Leader, Now What?" as an eBook or paperback at Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09ZBKK8XV

If you would like a signed copy, please reach out to sei@mickspiers.com and we can arrange it for you too.

If you're thinking about starting a podcast or upgrading your hosting, Buzzsprout is a great option! This link will give both of us a $20 credit when you upgrade:

👉 https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1701891

Create forms easily with Jotform! Sign up with my link: https://www.jotform.com/?referral=AkWimLxOBz

Get extra Dropbox space—sign up with my link: Dropbox Referral Link

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Discover how resilience and rock music shaped one man's journey to becoming a leader in executive search. Join us as we sit down with Richard Triggs, CEO and founder of Arete Executive, and author of "Winning the War for Talent."

Richard's story from an aspiring rock musician to an influential executive search expert is packed with lessons on teamwork, perseverance, and the alignment of personal and professional goals within a team setting. This episode offers a treasure trove of insights into how companies can strategically find, hire, and retain top talent to maximize their impact.

Explore the decision-making process behind choosing the right recruitment model—whether in-house, external, or hybrid. Richard sheds light on the benefits and challenges of each approach, emphasizing the importance of understanding your organization's culture, cost implications, and the quality of hires. With real-world examples, he illustrates the consequences of poor recruitment processes and the transformative power of leveraging modern tools for efficient talent acquisition. This chapter is essential for executives grappling with recruitment dilemmas and seeking to optimize their hiring strategies.

Finally, we delve into the nuances of clear communication and strategic hiring practices. Richard provides practical advice on tailoring job descriptions, setting transparent candidate expectations, and ensuring alignment between company strategy and individual strengths. From hiring the perfect sales manager to navigating the complexities of recruiting a new CEO, this episode offers actionable steps to enhance your approach.


🌐 Connect with Richard:
• Arete Executive Website: https://www.areteexecutive.com.au/
• Personal Website:

Send us Fan Mail

The Executive Wins Podcast features inspiring Executives who share their biggest wins.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify

Support the show

✅ Follow The Leadership Project on your favourite podcast platform and listen to a new episode every week!

📝 Don’t forget to share your thoughts on the episode in the comments below.
 
🔔 Join us in our mission at The Leadership Project and learn more about our organisation here:  https://linktr.ee/mickspiers

📕 You can purchase a copy of the Mick Spiers bestselling book "You're a Leader, Now What?" as an eBook or paperback at Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09ZBKK8XV

If you would like a signed copy, please reach out to sei@mickspiers.com and we can arrange it for you too.

If you're thinking about starting a podcast or upgrading your hosting, Buzzsprout is a great option! This link will give both of us a $20 credit when you upgrade:

👉 https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1701891

Create forms easily with Jotform! Sign up with my link: https://www.jotform.com/?referral=AkWimLxOBz

Get extra Dropbox space—sign up with my link: Dropbox Referral Link

Wise Referral link: https://wise.com/invite/dic/michaels11434

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In this episode of The Leadership Project, Mick reflects on his interview with Kristina Fussella about non-linear career paths and her experiences. They discuss the importance of a learning mindset, stepping out of comfort zones, and balancing generalist and specialist roles. 

The episode also covers findings from Gallup's 2024 Global Emotions Report, revealing surprising correlations between learning, respect, and emotional well-being, while debunking the connection between material wealth and positive emotions. The host concludes with personal leadership reflections, emphasizing clarity of communication, patience, and curiosity in solving problems.

00:00 Introduction: Exploring Connections in Leadership
00:43 Christina Fussella's Non-Linear Career Path
01:19 Deep Experts vs. Generalists
02:42 Learning and Growth Mindset
03:37 Leading Experts as a Generalist
06:53 Gallup's 2024 Global Emotions Report
08:24 Surprising Correlations in Emotional Well-being
10:36 Learning, Loneliness, and Social Interaction
14:56 Personal Leadership Reflections
20:02 Conclusion and Upcoming Episodes

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

✅ Follow The Leadership Project on your favourite podcast platform and listen to a new episode every week!

📝 Don’t forget to share your thoughts on the episode in the comments below.
 
🔔 Join us in our mission at The Leadership Project and learn more about our organisation here:  https://linktr.ee/mickspiers

📕 You can purchase a copy of the Mick Spiers bestselling book "You're a Leader, Now What?" as an eBook or paperback at Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09ZBKK8XV

If you would like a signed copy, please reach out to sei@mickspiers.com and we can arrange it for you too.

If you're thinking about starting a podcast or upgrading your hosting, Buzzsprout is a great option! This link will give both of us a $20 credit when you upgrade:

👉 https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1701891

Create forms easily with Jotform! Sign up with my link: https://www.jotform.com/?referral=AkWimLxOBz

Get extra Dropbox space—sign up with my link: Dropbox Referral Link

Wise Referral link: https://wise.com/invite/dic/michaels11434

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💭 Ever considered how early jobs like waitressing could shape your path to senior leadership?

Join us as Kristina Fussella, Founder and CEO at Novo Nordisk, takes us through her fascinating career journey that defies the traditional linear path. From leveraging her engineering background in consulting to learning invaluable lessons from her time at IHOP, Kristina's experiences underscore the importance of meaningful work and recognition, especially for younger professionals. Her story challenges the misconception that climbing the corporate ladder quickly is the only measure of success.

Kristina emphasizes the significance of following your North Star and stepping out of comfort zones to find true passion. Listen as she discusses her diverse roles at Novo Nordisk, showcasing her transition from analytics to sales and how it helped her build a comprehensive skill set. Her journey is a testament to having a purpose-driven career, staying open to opportunities, and solving real patient problems rather than just selling products. Kristina's insights will inspire you to embrace discomfort and varied experiences as pathways to becoming a well-rounded leader.

The episode also dives into the nuances of executive apprenticeship and the multifaceted challenges of leadership transitions. Kristina’s tales from her role as Chief of Staff provide a unique look into the intricacies of decision-making and running a business. She talks about building trust within teams, maintaining resilience amid setbacks, and fostering a growth mindset.

Wrapping up with her reflections on self-compassion, curiosity, and meaningful development conversations, this episode offers a treasure trove of wisdom for aspiring leaders and anyone looking to build a fulfilling career.

🌐 Connect with Kristina:
• LinkedIn:

Send us Fan Mail

The Executive Wins Podcast features inspiring Executives who share their biggest wins.

Listen on: Apple Podcasts   Spotify

Support the show

✅ Follow The Leadership Project on your favourite podcast platform and listen to a new episode every week!

📝 Don’t forget to share your thoughts on the episode in the comments below.
 
🔔 Join us in our mission at The Leadership Project and learn more about our organisation here:  https://linktr.ee/mickspiers

📕 You can purchase a copy of the Mick Spiers bestselling book "You're a Leader, Now What?" as an eBook or paperback at Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09ZBKK8XV

If you would like a signed copy, please reach out to sei@mickspiers.com and we can arrange it for you too.

If you're thinking about starting a podcast or upgrading your hosting, Buzzsprout is a great option! This link will give both of us a $20 credit when you upgrade:

👉 https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1701891

Create forms easily with Jotform! Sign up with my link: https://www.jotform.com/?referral=AkWimLxOBz

Get extra Dropbox space—sign up with my link: Dropbox Referral Link

Wise Referral link: https://wise.com/invite/dic/michaels11434

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💭 Ever wondered how fear and limiting beliefs can hold you back more than actual failures?

Join us on this episode of The Leadership Project podcast as we unpack these concepts with Dr. Benjamin Ritter, author of "Becoming Fearless." You'll discover how to redefine your relationship with fear and learn practical techniques like the Zeigarnik effect and Brendon Burchard's competence-confidence curve to push beyond your comfort zones. Together, we’ll reveal the untapped power of stepping into courage and incremental growth to build your confidence and competence.

We'll also tackle the rising trend of quiet quitting, a phenomenon that speaks volumes about leadership rather than the employees themselves. Find out how to foster a culture where every team member feels seen, heard, and valued. I'll share my own leadership reflections, discussing the significant impact of appreciation and recognizing the gaps where I can better support my team.

Finally, join Kristina Fussella as she shares her diverse career path to becoming a Chief of Staff, providing valuable insights for those aspiring to be well-rounded leaders. Don't miss this opportunity to elevate your leadership skills and inspire your team!

Send us Fan Mail

Support the show

✅ Follow The Leadership Project on your favourite podcast platform and listen to a new episode every week!

📝 Don’t forget to share your thoughts on the episode in the comments below.
 
🔔 Join us in our mission at The Leadership Project and learn more about our organisation here:  https://linktr.ee/mickspiers

📕 You can purchase a copy of the Mick Spiers bestselling book "You're a Leader, Now What?" as an eBook or paperback at Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B09ZBKK8XV

If you would like a signed copy, please reach out to sei@mickspiers.com and we can arrange it for you too.

If you're thinking about starting a podcast or upgrading your hosting, Buzzsprout is a great option! This link will give both of us a $20 credit when you upgrade:

👉 https://www.buzzsprout.com/?referrer_id=1701891

Create forms easily with Jotform! Sign up with my link: https://www.jotform.com/?referral=AkWimLxOBz

Get extra Dropbox space—sign up with my link: Dropbox Referral Link

Wise Referral link: https://wise.com/invite/dic/michaels11434

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