Explore every episode of the podcast The Seismic Shift with Michelle K. Johnston
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
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| Achieving True Work-Life Integration, featuring serial entrepreneur Chantell Preston | 08 Jan 2025 | 00:33:20 | |
Welcome to a whole new year and another truly impactful episode of The Seismic Shift. We’re starting off 2025 strong, talking with serial healthcare entrepreneur, Chantell Preston, all about how to actually achieve that always-elusive work-life integration. Let’s dive in! Chantell has been starting her own companies since she was 27 years-old, and in that time she’s learned a thing or two about what it takes to find fulfillment both at work and at home through building connection with the entirety of your employee—not just their work identity or ability to produce results. During her candid conversation with Michelle, Chantell vulnerably shares her own story of finding a work-life integration that fulfilled her, plus the two also talk females in leadership, how they would define personal success, and their best advice for managing your time and priorities in a way that’s life-giving, not draining. Chantell’s is a story that will empower you to get up and make your goals happen! Don’t miss this incredible kickoff to a whole new year on The Seismic Shift! Learn more about Chantell and her podcast, Get Real, Get Results here: https://chantellpreston.com/.
00:00 Embracing Imposter Syndrome Special thanks to our friend Brian Wayy for the theme music this season! | |||
| Finding the Fire in your Belly, featuring Corent Technology CEO Feyzi Fatehi | 18 Dec 2024 | 00:33:54 | |
How do we find that fire in our belly to do something truly revolutionary with our lives? Silicon Valley disruptor and current CEO of Corent Technology, Feyzi Fatehi, knows a thing or two when it comes to answering that question. For today’s episode of The Seismic Shift, Michelle sits down with Feyzi to take a look at his meteoric rise through some of the world’s top technology companies—outlining the biggest lessons he’s learned along the way. From spearheading Hewlett-Packard’s global alliances in his 20s to getting his MBA from Stanford and going on to lead from the C-suite, Feyzi has had a front row seat to the seismic shifts happening in Silicon Valley over the last few decades. Together he and Michelle discuss the evolution of leadership practices in the tech industry, the motivation behind Feyzi’s book—Democratizing SaaS, and his best advice for finding that fire in your belly to do great things with your life and talents. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation! Purchase Democratizing SaaS here: https://www.corenttech.com/democratizing-saas-testimonials.html. CHAPTERS 00:00 Transforming Questions for Better Understanding Special thanks to our friend Brian Wayy for the theme music this season! | |||
| Summer Re-Release: Own Your Story with Kenneth Polite, US Assistant Attorney General | 18 Sep 2024 | 00:49:57 | |
Original Aired Date: 7/13/2022 Every leader has their own story behind them, but do they truly own that same story? If we’re going to lead others through connection, we need to prioritize getting connected with ourselves first. To shed light on this central tenet of connective leadership, Michelle is joined by US Assistant Attorney General, Kenneth Polite, who, having grown up in the highly incarcerated lower ninth ward of New Orleans and since risen through the ranks of the US justice system, is an unparalleled voice on the importance of understanding and owning where you came from in order to get where you, and the team you lead, want to go. You can pick up a copy of Michelle Johnston's newest book, The Seismic Shift, on her website: https://michellekjohnston.com WXJ7FT8JMVC6QVQS | |||
| Summer Re-Release: How to Lead like a Super Bowl Champion with Jon Stinchcomb | 04 Sep 2024 | 00:39:30 | |
Original Aired Date: 2/8/2023 Ever wonder what takes place behind the scenes of a Super Bowl team? Learn leadership best practices from former Super Bowl Champion, Jon Stinchcomb. Jon played for The New Orleans Saints for 8 seasons and served on the offense with Drew Brews when they won Super Bowl XLIV. According to Jon, the secret sauce is not just skill level, it’s your character, how you treat each other inside and outside of the locker room. Tune in to this episode and learn how to build a championship team whether you are a leader in the sports, non-profit or corporate world. You can pick up a copy of Michelle Johnston's newest book, The Seismic Shift, on her website: https://michellekjohnston.com WXJ7FT8JMVC6QVQS | |||
| Summer Re-Release: Showing Care & Compassion with Hospitality Executive Robért LeBlanc | 21 Aug 2024 | 00:41:07 | |
Original Aired Date: 9/7/2022 Robért LeBlanc, Founder and CEO of LeBlanc + Smith, is a true servant leader who built his business around his people. “We want our team to enjoy themselves every day while learning and being really productive, and we want them to have joyful and balanced lives while doing so.” This mentality is not the norm in the hospitality industry, where burnout is high and quality of life is typically low. Listen to Robért talk about why he believes showing care and compassion is his main job as a leader. You can pick up a copy of Michelle Johnston's newest book, The Seismic Shift, on her website: https://michellekjohnston.com
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| Summer Re-Release: Being a Servant Leader Judi Terzotis | 07 Aug 2024 | 00:35:59 | |
Original Aired Date: 1/11/2023 Communication and connection are very different. With communication, it’s found to be more transactional getting from A to B. What we find with connecting with our teams in today's work environment now means something different perhaps than it did before. How seen are people? Do they feel heard? Are they cared for? 2022 Businessperson of the Year and the President and Publisher of The Advocate and Times-Picayune, Judi Terzotis exhibits the highest level of these qualities through modeling servant leadership. In this episode, Michelle and Judi explain that by building a positive listening environment and disrupting the status quo, we can create a workplace where people actually want to go in. You can pick up a copy of Michelle Johnston's newest book, The Seismic Shift, on her website: | |||
| Summer Re-Release: Listen to Lead with CEO Boysie Bollinger | 24 Jul 2024 | 00:38:53 | |
Original Aired Date: 10/5/2022 We believe that if you actually listen to your team, they will be more motivated to perform well and generate new ideas. Today we have Boysie Bollinger on the podcast to talk about how to listen to lead. Do you believe that lower-level employees often have observations that higher level leaders cannot see? Listen to learn and transform into a leader that listens! You can pick up a copy of Michelle Johnston's newest book, The Seismic Shift, on her website: WXJ7FT8JMVC6QVQS | |||
| Summer Re-Release: Connection Through Strategy with Don McGuire, CMO of Qualcomm | 10 Jul 2024 | 00:36:13 | |
Original Aired Date: 3/8/2023 For too long, there have been many experiences underneath the ego-forward leadership umbrella that ultimately have pushed people out the door. Can those past experiences lead to a greater understanding of how to change that narrative in our own leadership? Don McGuire seems to think so. In this episode, Michelle and Don McGuire, CMO of Qualcomm, discuss how empowering employees to rethink the status quo through encouraging connection, ideation, and building trust can bring about a shift in leadership. You can pick up a copy of Michelle Johnston's newest book, The Seismic Shift, on her website: WXJ7FT8JMVC6QVQS | |||
| Summer Re-Release: Connection Begins with Organization Alignment with Juan Martin, Global President of Kind Snacks | 26 Jun 2024 | 00:42:02 | |
Original Aired Date: 12/8/2022 Juan Martin is an executive who epitomes Kindness and Connection. As the Global President of KIND Snacks and Nature’s Bakery, Juan is genuinely trying to make the world a better place through acts of kindness. Juan believes Success is measured by how kind we are to ourselves, each other, and our planet. Tune in to today’s episode of The Seismic Shift podcast to learn strategies from Juan on how to more effectively connect with your people and your organization.
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| Summer Re-Release: Creating Positive Culture with Larry Closs | 12 Jun 2024 | 00:38:10 | |
Original Aired Date: 11/2/2022 Have you ever heard of a construction company that has a Culture of Happiness? Me, neither! But I just spent an afternoon with the leaders of Maxhome and it’s a real thing and it works! I was blown away by their positivity and enthusiasm for their company. Tune in to uncover how Larry Closs, Founder of MaxHome, built such a positive culture. You can pick up a copy of Michelle Johnston's book, The Seismic Shift, on her website: | |||
| Summer Re-Release: How Leading with Connection Drives Results with Pete November, CEO of Ochsner Health | 29 May 2024 | 00:38:40 | |
Original Aired Date: 4/5/2023 Is there a different way to lead where you don’t have to be commanding, controlling, and micromanaging with your people? The answer is Yes, yes, and absolutely yes! Michelle speaks with Pete November, the new CEO of Ochsner Health, with 38,000 employees and physicians. As Pete’s coach, Michelle had a front row seat to observe his leadership in action. You’ll discover how Pete wholeheartedly believes that connection drives results. Pete shares specific tactics on how he creates environments that empower his people to thrive. You can pickup a copy of Michelle Johnston's newest book, The Seismic Shift, on her website: | |||
| Summer Re-Release: Redefining Power in Leadership with Marshall Goldsmith | 15 May 2024 | 00:39:43 | |
Original Aired Date: 6/1/2022 Marshall Goldsmith has been ranked as the World’s #1 Executive Coach and #1 Leadership Thinker. Marshall was chosen as the inaugural winner of the Lifetime Award for Leadership by the Harvard Institute of Coaching and is the author or editor of 41 books, which have sold over 2.5 million copies, been translated into 32 languages and become listed bestsellers in 12 countries. Marshall also happens to be Michelle's official mentor and wrote the forward to Michelle’s new book, The Seismic Shift in Leadership. Today we are talking to Marshall about a topic he knows best: The necessary characteristics to be successful. And it’s not all about achievement. He talks about his new book, The Earned Life, where he implores readers to avoid the Great Western Disease of “I’ll be happy when. . . .” He offers practical advice and exercises aimed at helping us shed the obstacles that prevent us from creating our own You can pick up a copy of Michelle Johnston's newest book, The Seismic Shift, on her website: You can pick up a copy of Marshall Goldsmith's newest book, The Earned Life, on his website: | |||
| The Art of Delicate Conversations, featuring No. 1 Startup Coach Alisa Cohn | 11 Dec 2024 | 00:29:53 | |
As leaders, it’s essential that we master the art of the delicate conversation to foster connection among the people we lead. But delicate conversations are just that … delicate, and it’s tempting to put them off. Today on The Seismic Shift, Michelle sits down with the world’s no. 1 startup coach, Alisa Cohn, to dive into how to have those delicate conversations we all dread, and how to have them well. To open the episode, Michelle invites Alisa to share her incredible story of reinventing her career at 27 years-old and becoming one of the world’s most sought-after startup coaches. Michelle then pulls from the scripts Alisa outlines in her bestselling book, and together the two illustrate for us how to have some of the delicate conversations many leaders face. From delivering bad news to your staff to walking an employee through why you don’t believe they’re ready for a promotion right now, Alisa shows us how to have these delicate conversations in a way that builds trust and connection. Michelle and Alisa’s conversation concludes with Alisa sharing her insights into how managers can better connect with their employees, even in an increasingly remote work space. Don’t miss this incredible episode of The Seismic Shift! Check out Alisa’s book, From Start-Up to Grown-Up here: https://www.alisacohn.com/start-up/. Chapters 00:00 The Importance of Vulnerability in Connection Special thanks to our friend Brian Wayy for the theme music this season! | |||
| Summer Re-Release: Giving up Perfection with Tania Tetlow, President of Fordham University | 30 Apr 2024 | 00:44:05 | |
Original Aired Date: 8/10/22 It’s tempting to believe that if leaders strive to maintain an aura of perfection, this masking act will then trickle down throughout our organization and make everyone want to be better. Today, Michelle and Tania Tetlow, Current and first woman President of Fordham University, are here to share stories as to why this couldn’t be further from the truth of leading effectively. Tania’s reflections on her most meaningful moments in academic leadership will prove that moments of imperfection as leaders are often when we achieve the greatest level of trust with our teams. And as Michelle argues, it’s not until we have this trust and resulting connection that our organizations are poised to strive for greatness, without the false pretense of perfection. You can pickup a copy of Michelle Johnston's newest book, The Seismic Shift, on her website: https://michellekjohnston.com WXJ7FT8JMVC6QVQS | |||
| 10 Tips to Level Up Your Leadership with Dr. Michelle K. Johnston | 17 Apr 2024 | 00:28:05 | |
The final episode of season two of the Seismic Shift podcast provides the top 10 tips, themes and takeaways from the season. The themes include gratitude, allyship, inclusion, servant leadership, creativity, courage, mentoring, becoming coachable, deep listening, and work-life balance. Michelle recaps the guests, who are bestselling authors and global thought leaders, and shares her insights from their conversations on how leaders can adapt to the seismic shifts happening in the workplace and create positive environments that foster connection and collaboration. The key message is that everything has changed, and leaders must change and show up as the best versions of themselves to drive results. Chapters You can pick up a copy of Michelle Johnston's newest book, The Seismic Shift, on her website: https://michellekjohnston.com Music licensed through Soundstripe: WXJ7FT8JMVC6QVQS | |||
| The Case for Female Leadership: Why We Need to Attract, Retain, and Advance More Women in the Workplace With Jennifer McCollum, CEO of Catalyst | 03 Apr 2024 | 00:35:47 | |
Michelle talks with Jennifer McCollum, CEO of Catalyst and the author of the best-selling book, In Her Own Voice, about her journey to becoming a C-suite executive. They discuss the challenges faced by women and the importance of creating work environments where women can thrive. Jennifer shares her personal story and the seismic shifts she experienced during the pandemic. They also explore the superpowers women bring to the table, and the importance of networks and mentors. The conversation concludes with a call to action to find your purpose and share it loudly. Chapters Grab a copy of Jennifer McCollum's book today! You can pick up a copy of Michelle Johnston's newest book, The Seismic Shift, on her website: https://michellekjohnston.com Music licensed through Soundstripe: WXJ7FT8JMVC6QVQS | |||
| Balancing your Creativity, Presence, and Energy with Michael Gelb | 20 Mar 2024 | 00:32:33 | |
The conversation between Michelle and Michael covers his journey exploring his diverse experiences, from studying spiritual traditions to becoming an expert in the Alexander Technique. Emphasizing the need for a culture of connection in the workplace, Gelb discusses strategies, including leaders embodying genuine presence and balancing chronological and non-linear time. They address workplace challenges, humor sensitivity, and concludes with a preview of Gelb's upcoming book, "Walking Well," advocating the transformative power of walking for connection and collaboration. Join Michelle and her guest as they navigate the evolving landscape of leadership and personal growth. Michael J. Gelb, is a renowned author and expert in creativity and connection. Gelb, a bestselling author of 17 books, shares profound insights from his 50-year career, highlighting the seismic shift he witnessed with the rise of women in business and leadership. Creativity. Innovation. Leadership. For more on Micheal J. Gelb: You can pick up a copy of Michelle Johnston's newest book, The Seismic Shift, on her website: https://michellekjohnston.com Music licensed through Soundstripe: | |||
| The Path to Courageous Conversations with Scott Jeffrey Miller | 06 Mar 2024 | 00:38:42 | |
Michelle is joined by Scott Miller who currently serves as FranklinCovey’s Senior Advisor on thought leadership. Together, they emphasize the importance of connection and power skills. Scott highlights the need for leaders to develop relationships and embrace imperfection. They also explore the role of mentorship in creating a culture of connection and provide insights from his book series, Master Mentors. Scott encourages leaders to own their leadership style and have courageous conversations to foster a culture of connection. 00:00 Introduction and Scott Miller's Background For more on Scott and how to ignite your genius You can pick up a copy of Michelle Johnston's newest book, The Seismic Shift, on her website Music licensed through Soundstripe: | |||
| Rising Together: How Leaders Can Build More Inclusive Relationships, Teams, and Workplaces with Sally Helgesen | 21 Feb 2024 | 00:34:43 | |
Sally Helgesen is cited in Forbes as the world’s premier expert on women’s leadership. In this episode, Michelle and Sally discuss the importance of creating a culture of belonging and inclusion in organizations. Sally emphasizes the need for leaders to use language intentionally to signal inclusivity and to make people feel valued for their potential. She also explores the concept of authenticity and the balance between being authentic and professional. Through practical tips and showing up as human to create meaningful connections with their team members, this conversation highlights the importance of allyship and the collective effort to rise together. Sally’s latest book, Rising Together: How We Can Bridge Divides and Create a More Inclusive Workplace, offers practical ways to build more inclusive relationships, teams, and workplaces You can pick up a copy of Michelle Johnston's newest book, The Seismic Shift, on her website: https://michellekjohnston.com Music licensed through Soundstripe: | |||
| How Unity and Inclusion Build a Winning Culture with All-Pro NFL Linebacker, Demario Davis | 07 Feb 2024 | 00:35:34 | |
Demario Davis, a 2x Pro Bowl linebacker and reigning 2024 NFL Pro Bowl Defensive MVP of the New Orleans Saints, shares his personal story and insights on connection and leadership. He emphasizes the importance of being connected with oneself first and then using that connection to motivate and connect with teammates. Together with Michelle, they believe that unity and inclusion are key drivers of connection and success. He discusses the unique culture of the Saints in the NFL and how it is deeply connected to the city of New Orleans. They crystallize this conversation by encouraging leaders to be servant leaders and to prioritize the well-being and development of their team members. Follow Demario Davis on Instagram: You can pick up a copy of Michelle Johnston's newest book, The Seismic Shift, on her website Music licensed through Soundstripe: | |||
| Going From Work Life Balance to Work Life Bloom with Dan Pontefract | 24 Jan 2024 | 00:34:02 | |
Dan Pontefract, a bestselling author and global thought leader joins Michelle to discuss work-life balance and ultimately, creating a work-life bloom. Michelle and Dan cover the seismic shift happening in organizations regarding employee engagement and the need for a new approach. Dan introduces the concept of work-life bloom, which focuses on factors such as trust, belonging, value, purpose, and well-being. They emphasize the importance of connection, care, and kindness in the workplace and the need for leaders to create environments that allow people to thrive. The conversation concludes with advice to be patient and surround oneself with support. The future of work is now. For more info on Dan Pontefract: You can pick up a copy of Michelle Johnston's newest book, The Seismic Shift, on her website Music licensed through Soundstripe: | |||
| Emotional Connections Are the Armor for Burnout with Dr. Mark Goulston | 11 Jan 2024 | 00:46:31 | |
Dr. Mark Goulston and Michelle discuss the seismic shift he has experienced and the impact it has had on his perspective. He shares insights on the cause of burnout and the antidote to it, emphasizing the importance of emotional connection in countering burnout. Dr. Goulston also introduces the 'Five Reallys' exercise, a tool for building deeper connections and understanding in conversations. He discusses the significance of creating a culture of connection in organizations and offers practical steps for leaders to implement. The conversation concludes with a reflection on the power of vulnerability and the importance of meaningful connections in life. You can pick up a copy of Michelle Johnston's newest book, The Seismic Shift, on her website: https://michellekjohnston.com Music licensed through Soundstripe: | |||
| Building Transparent Leadership Through Micro Courage with CB Bowman | 27 Dec 2023 | 00:34:31 | |
Michelle welcomes the extraordinary CB Bowman-Ottomanelli, an illuminating force in leadership and courage. CB is set to release her upcoming book, "Courage to Leap & Lead," and today's discussion revolves around what it truly means to be a courageous leader in the face of the seismic shifts we're experiencing. This conversation covers the seven pandemics reshaping our world, from COVID and social injustice to economics, climate change, mental health, war, and the workforce attitude. CB sheds light on the confusion leaders face in today's cancel culture, where authenticity and empathy are crucial but seemingly at odds with the prevailing norms. The conversation takes a profound turn as CB introduces the concept of "micro courage" and redefines courage as a series of small, impactful acts. The duo explores the importance of connection, empathy, and feeling like one to build a culture of trust within organizations. Michelle shares her revelation about the power of illuminators – leaders who lean in, find common ground, and show genuine interest, fostering a culture of connection. You can pick up a copy of Michelle Johnston's newest book, The Seismic Shift, on her website: https://michellekjohnston.com | |||
| BONUS Episode: A Look at the Seismic Shifts happening in Higher Education, featuring Loyola University’s Dr. Xavier Cole and Dr. Bobby Savoie | 27 Nov 2024 | 00:36:07 | |
For this week’s special, bonus episode of The Seismic Shift, Michelle has the privilege of sitting down with two of her colleagues at Loyola University New Orleans: the university’s new president—and first president of color—Dr. Xavier Cole, and Loyola’s interim dean of the College of Business, Dr. Bobby Savoie. It’s no secret that the value (and price tag) of higher education have come into question in recent years. So together these three dynamic leaders discuss some of the key seismic shifts happening in higher education right now, answering the question of if an advanced degree is still worth it in our changing job landscape. Throughout their conversation, Dr. Cole and Dr. Savoie both share how higher education changed their career trajectories—discussing some of the ways they’re disrupting higher education as we know it, why an education that focuses on how to think critically is so vital, and how higher education is different today than it was for previous generations. Don’t miss this insightful conversation! Learn more about Loyola University New Orleans on their website: https://www.loyno.edu/. CHAPTERS 00:00 Transformational Power of Education Special thanks to our friend Brian Wayy for the theme music this season! | |||
| You, Me, We: How We Can All Rise Together at Work with Morag Barrett | 13 Dec 2023 | 00:32:45 | |
Morag Barrett, a sought-after leadership expert and co-author of the best-selling book, You, Me, We, shares insights on the professional benefits of being an ally at work. Morag emphasizes the move from a traditional, hierarchical model to a more human-centric approach. She discusses her journey from a traditional banking environment to embracing the power of bringing one's authentic self to work. The conversation unfolds to explore the significance of showing up as an ally at work, not only for individual growth but for the betterment of organizational culture. Morag sheds light on the five practices outlined in 'You, Me, We' that empower individuals to be intentional allies and foster meaningful connections. Join Michelle and Morag as they navigate the seismic shifts in leadership and share practical tips for creating a workplace where everyone can thrive. You, Me, We: Why We All Need a Friend At Work You can pick up a copy of Michelle Johnston's newest book, The Seismic Shift, on her website: https://michellekjohnston.com | |||
| The Power of Becoming Coachable with Jacquelyn Lane and Scott Osman | 29 Nov 2023 | 00:32:41 | |
Interested in coaching or being coached? Michelle engages in a thought-provoking conversation with Scott Osman and Jacquelyn Lane, authors of the best-selling book "Becoming Coachable.” As CEO and President of a premiere executive coaching firm, they share their journey of discovering the profound impact of connection and relationship-first approaches in leadership. The conversation surrounds the seismic shifts that Scott and Jacquelyn have witnessed in the coaching profession. They recount a pivotal moment where their agency shifted its focus from efficiency to cultivating deeper relationships, leading to significant dividends. As the discussion unfolds, they explore the essence of becoming coachable and the fundamental attributes that make someone open to coaching. Humility and confidence emerge as key qualities, allowing leaders to recognize their need for improvement while having the confidence to make positive changes. This episode explores the concept of “human flourishing" and the power of creating a community around coaching. Scott and Jacquelyn share insights from their book, emphasizing the importance of involving stakeholders in the coaching process, thus creating a collective effort towards success. BECOMING COACHABLE https://amplifypublishinggroup.com/product/bookstore/innovative-thought-leadership/becoming-coachable/ You can pick up a copy of Dr. Michelle Johnston's book, The Seismic Shift in Leadership, on her website: https://michellekjohnston.com | |||
| How to Combat Disconnection in Today’s Fast-Paced, Hybrid World With Chester Elton | 15 Nov 2023 | 00:34:46 | |
In the second season opener, Michelle is joined by the incredible Chester Elton, the New York Times bestselling author of Anxiety at Work, Leading with Gratitude, The Carrot Principle, and The Best Teams Win. Michelle and Chester explore the seismic shifts in the workplace, from the growing importance of gratitude and empathy to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on employee well-being. They highlight the significance of knowing and sharing your story as a leader and how it can transform workplace dynamics. They discuss the power of vulnerability, authenticity, and genuine human connection in building a thriving work environment. As they share their experiences and insights, Michelle and Chester offer practical tips for incorporating gratitude into your daily routine and fostering meaningful relationships at work. Discover how gratitude can not only boost employee morale but also combat loneliness and anxiety in today's fast-paced, hyper-connected world. TRANSFORM YOUR CULTURE: Advisor to CEOs. Thousands Engaged. Extraordinary Results. You can pickup a copy of Michelle Johnston's newest book, The Seismic Shift, on her website: https://michellekjohnston.com | |||
| Season 2 Trailer: The Seismic Shift | 01 Nov 2023 | 00:01:35 | |
The Seismic Shift with Dr. Michelle Johnston is back for Season 2! Throughout this season, we'll explore how connected leaders foster an environment where each individual feels seen, heard, valued, respected and appreciated for their unique contributions to truly grasp the essence of this impact. We'll examine real life examples of both successes and shortcomings from the angle of disconnection. We'll dissect these symptoms of disconnection that plague our businesses, our institutions and our communities. Are you ready to see remarkable results? If so, then hit the subscribe button and get ready to embark on a transformative journey with season two of the Seismic Shift podcast coming soon! | |||
| How Leading with Connection Drives Results with Pete November, CEO of Ochsner Health | 05 Apr 2023 | 00:38:40 | |
Is there a different way to lead where you don’t have to be commanding, controlling, and micromanaging with your people? The answer is Yes, yes, and absolutely yes! Wrapping up Season 1, Michelle speaks with Pete November, the new CEO of Ochsner Health, with 38,000 employees and physicians. As Pete’s coach, Michelle had a front row seat to observe his leadership in action. You can pickup a copy of Michelle Johnston's newest book, The Seismic Shift, on her website: https://michellekjohnston.com | |||
| Connection Through Strategy with Don McGuire, CMO of Qualcomm | 08 Mar 2023 | 00:36:13 | |
For too long, there have been many experiences underneath the ego-forward leadership umbrella that ultimately have pushed people out the door. Can those past experiences lead to a greater understanding of how to change that narrative in our own leadership? Don McGuire seems to think so. In this episode, Michelle and Don McGuire, CMO of Qualcomm, discuss how empowering employees to rethink the status quo through encouraging connection, ideation, and building trust can bring about a shift in leadership. You can pickup a copy of Michelle Johnston's newest book, The Seismic Shift, on her website: https://michellekjohnston.com | |||
| How to Lead like a Super Bowl Champion with Jon Stinchcomb | 08 Feb 2023 | 00:39:30 | |
Ever wonder what takes place behind the scenes of a Super Bowl team? Learn leadership best practices from former Super Bowl Champion, Jon Stinchcomb. Jon played for The New Orleans Saints for 8 seasons and served on the offense with Drew Brews when they won Super Bowl XLIV. According to Jon, the secret sauce is not just skill level, it’s your character, how you treat each other inside and outside of the locker room. Tune in to this episode and learn how to build a championship team whether you are a leader in the sports, non-profit or corporate world. You can pickup a copy of Michelle Johnston's newest book, The Seismic Shift, on her website: https://michellekjohnston.com | |||
| Connect as a Servant Leader with Judi Terzotis | 11 Jan 2023 | 00:35:59 | |
Communication and connection are very different. With communication, it is transactional, getting information from A to B. Connection, on the other hand, is a shared experience. When interacting, do your people feel seen, heard, valued, appreciated? 2022 Publisher of the Year and the President and Publisher of The Advocate and Times-Picayune, Judi Terzotis epitomizes servant leadership. In this episode, Michelle and Judi explain that by building a positive listening environment and disrupting the status quo, we can create a positive workplace where people feel connected. You can pickup a copy of Michelle Johnston's newest book, The Seismic Shift, on her website: https://michellekjohnston.com | |||
| Connection and Alignment with Juan Martin, Global President of KIND Snacks | 08 Dec 2022 | 00:42:02 | |
Juan Martin is an executive who epitomes Kindness and Connection. As the Global President of KIND Snacks and Nature’s Bakery, Juan is genuinely trying to make the world a better place through acts of kindness. Juan believes success is measured by how kind we are to ourselves, each other, and our planet, Tune in to today’s episode of The Seismic Shift podcast to learn strategies from Juan on how to more effectively connect with your people and your organization. You can pickup a copy of Michelle Johnston's book, The Seismic Shift, on her website: https://michellekjohnston.com | |||
| Creating a Positive Culture with Larry Closs | 02 Nov 2022 | 00:38:10 | |
We believe that putting yourself in a position of service to your team will help you and your team succeed as one. Avoid EGO and serve the mission! And who better to have the conversation with than Larry Closs, founder and CEO of MaxHome? You are in for a real treat today as we talk to Larry and learn how he created a positive culture based on Happiness. You can pickup a copy of Michelle Johnston's newest book, The Seismic Shift, on her website: https://michellekjohnston.com | |||
| Creating Events that Spark Joy, featuring GNO, Inc. President & CEO Michael Hecht | S3E5 | 20 Nov 2024 | 00:33:27 | |
The city of New Orleans recently experienced “the Taylor Swift effect”—the whole city coming together culturally and economically for the singer’s Eras Tour weekend. Today on The Seismic Shift, Michelle sits down with GNO, Inc. President & CEO Michael Hecht to talk all about how the city can recreate that sense of joy and belonging during next year’s Super Bowl. As New Orleans natives, Michelle and Michael are both passionate about seeing their city thrive during big events like a Taylor Swift concert and the Super Bowl, and New Orleans undoubtedly does big events very well (just look at Mardi Gras!). But how can other cities or organizations recreate the kind of weekend these two just experienced in their city—one that fostered belonging, sparked joy, and thrived on spontaneity and inclusivity? Michelle asks Michael to break it down during this conversation. Together they take a look at the practical ways Michael’s preparing for the Super Bowl next year, how other entities can foster connection around their own big events, and why the Taylor Swift effect doesn’t have to end when the Eras Tour leaves your city.
00:00 The Power of Connection in Divisive Times
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| Listen to Lead with CEO Boysie Bollinger | 05 Oct 2022 | 00:38:53 | |
We believe that if you actually listen to your team, they will be more motivated to perform well and generate new ideas. Today we have Boysie Bollinger on the podcast to talk about how to listen to lead. Do you believe that lower level employees often have observations that higher level leaders cannot see? Listen to learn and transform into a leader that listens! You can pickup a copy of Michelle Johnston's newest book, The Seismic Shift, on her website: https://michellekjohnston.com | |||
| Showing Care and Compassion with Hospitality Executive Robért LeBlanc | 07 Sep 2022 | 00:41:07 | |
Robért LeBlanc, Founder and CEO of LeBlanc + Smith, is a true servant leader who built his business around his people. “We want our team to enjoy themselves every day while learning and being really productive, and we want them to have joyful and balanced lives while doing so.” This mentality is not the norm in the hospitality industry, where burnout is high and quality of life is typically low. Listen to Robért talk about why he believes showing care and compassion is his main job as a leader. You can pickup a copy of Michelle Johnston's newest book, The Seismic Shift, on her website: https://michellekjohnston.com | |||
| Giving up Perfection with Tania Tetlow, President of Fordham University | 10 Aug 2022 | 00:44:04 | |
It’s tempting to believe that if leaders strive to maintain an aura of perfection, this effort will then trickle down throughout our organization and make everyone want to be better. Today, Michelle and Tania Tetlow, President of Fordham University, are here to share stories as to why this couldn’t be further from the truth of leading effectively. Tania reflects that her moments of imperfection often achieved the greatest level of trust with her teams. And as Michelle argues, it’s not until we have this trust and resulting connection that our organizations are poised to strive for greatness.
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| Own Your Story with Kenneth Polite, US Assistant Attorney General | 13 Jul 2022 | 00:49:56 | |
Every leader has their own story behind them, but do they truly own that same story? If we’re going to lead others through connection, we need to prioritize getting connected with ourselves first. To shed light on this central tenet of connective leadership, Michelle is joined by US Assistant Attorney General, Kenneth Polite, who, having grown up in the highly incarcerated lower ninth ward of New Orleans and since risen through the ranks of the US justice system, is an unparalleled voice on the importance of understanding and owning where you came from in order to get where you, and the team you lead, want to go. You can pickup a copy of Michelle Johnston's newest book, The Seismic Shift, on her website: https://michellekjohnston.com | |||
| Redefining Power in Leadership with Marshall Goldsmith | 01 Jun 2022 | 00:39:42 | |
Marshall Goldsmith has been ranked as the World’s #1 Executive Coach and #1 Leadership Thinker. Marshall was chosen as the inaugural winner of the Lifetime Award for Leadership by the Harvard Institute of Coaching and is the author or editor of 41 books, which have sold over 2.5 million copies, been translated into 32 languages and become listed bestsellers in 12 countries. Marshall also happens to be Michelle's official mentor and wrote the forward to Michelle’s new book, The Seismic Shift in Leadership. Today we are talking to Marshall about a topic he knows best: The necessary characteristics to be successful. And it’s not all about achievement. He talks about his new book, The Earned Life, where he implores readers to avoid the Great Western Disease of “I’ll be happy when. . . .” He offers practical advice and exercises aimed at helping us shed the obstacles that prevent us from creating our own fulfilling lives. You can pickup a copy of Michelle Johnston's newest book, The Seismic Shift, on her website: https://michellekjohnston.com You can pickup a copy of Marshall Goldsmith's newest book, The Earned Life, on his website: https://marshallgoldsmith.com | |||
| Welcome to Seismic Shift! | 09 Mar 2022 | 00:02:10 | |
Welcome to Seismic Shift - a leadership podcast that focuses on connection. I’m your host, Michelle Johnston: management professor, executive coach, and leadership expert. I believe that today’s leaders need more than power and control to get the best from their teams; they need connection. Through interviews with some of today’s top business leaders, we are going to explore how leaders' ability to connect with themselves, their teams, and their organizations defines their ultimate success or failure. This podcast runs in close parallel to my new book, The Seismic Shift in Leadership, where you can find even more insights from me and the brilliants leaders I interview this season. So let's set our sights on connection and get ready to take on the daunting, yet exciting, challenge of this Seismic Shift. | |||
| Optimizing your Calendar for Connection, featuring executive coach Taylor Johnson | 13 Nov 2024 | 00:45:30 | |
We all have those things that are most important to us, but do our calendars actually reflect those priorities? This week on The Seismic Shift, Michelle is joined by an individual who has personally helped her make some of the biggest shifts of her professional life over the past six months. That person is former NFL coach turned executive coach, Taylor Johnson. Taylor is an expert when it comes to helping others craft that winning formula that will set them on the path towards greater connection, clarity, and confidence. Taylor and Michelle dive into it all in today’s conversation. Given Michelle’s connection to Taylor and his strategies, they start this episode a little differently: with Michelle sharing how hearing Taylor speak at a conference led to working with him to create her own connection cadence. Taylor then goes into his own areas of expertise, walking listeners through a series of exercises to spark connection—including “the best of me” framework, how to optimize your calendar for connection, and taking a look at why it’s so important to start with ourselves and our own priorities before adding others to the equation. This is a truly transformational conversation on the power (and logistics!) behind building connections and increasing your performance that you’re not going to want to miss! Download "The Best of Me" exercise worksheet here: Complementary Strategy Session: Taylor Johnson, LinkedIn: Taylor Johnson Performance: Paul Graham, Maker's Schedule, Manager's Schedule: CHAPTERS 00:00 Understanding Relationships: The Three Buckets Special thanks to our friend Brian Wayy for the theme music this season! | |||
| The Power of Leading Yourself Well, featuring Elizabeth Lotardo and Lisa McLeod | 30 Oct 2024 | 00:33:10 | |
How do we deal with a micromanaging boss? What if you are that micromanaging boss? Can leading yourself well really bring purpose to even the most mundane job functions? On this week’s episode of The Seismic Shift, Michelle sits down with mother-daughter consulting team Lisa McLeod and Elizabeth Lotardo to answer these questions and more—focusing on the power we can all find in being our own best leader. Lisa is an executive coach and the author of Leading With Noble Purpose. Elizabeth is also a coach and the author of the new book Leading Yourself. Together these three dynamic leaders discuss the seismic shift this next generation of leaders is experiencing in the workplace, how to make the shift from feeling powerless to powerful at work (and why that matters), and what both the older and younger generations can learn about leadership from the other. Elizabeth and Lisa leave listeners with practical tips on everything from dealing with jerk bosses to eliminating minimizing language from your work communication. No matter what your role, leading yourself well can change everything about how you work. Don’t miss this important episode of The Seismic Shift! Learn more about Lisa and Elizabeth’s consulting work here: https://www.mcleodandmore.com/ Buy Leading With Noble Purpose here: https://www.mcleodandmore.com/leading-with-noble-purpose/ Check out Leading Yourself here: https://www.amazon.com/Leading-Yourself-Elizabeth-Lotardo/dp/1394238703 CHAPTERS 00:00 Finding Purpose in Work Special thanks to our friend Brian Wayy for the theme music this season! | |||
| Disrupting the Way we Connect, featuring Business Outside’s Bart Foster | 16 Oct 2024 | 00:29:17 | |
When Bart Foster was forced out of the company he founded, he was challenged to think about how to do business differently. In the aftermath his organization, Business Outside, was born—all about disrupting the ways we connect and working to foster those connections in whole new ways. On today’s episode of The Seismic Shift, Michelle sits down with Bart—one of her good friends in business—to talk about all the ways we can think outside the box when it comes to building connections. During their conversation Bart and Michelle break down how meetings as we once knew them are changing (for the better!), why getting outside can actually help you connect in more meaningful ways, and what it means to work from your “zone of genius.” Bart closes their conversation with a gratefulness challenge you’re going to want to put into practice this week! Learn more about Business Outside on their website: https://www.businessoutside.com/. Grab a copy of Bart’s book here: https://bart-foster.com/businessoutside-discover-your-path-forward. CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction to Job Crafting and Connection Special thanks to our friend Brian Wayy for the theme music this season! | |||
| Building a Better Meeting, featuring Organizational Psychologist Steven Rogelberg | 02 Oct 2024 | 00:26:24 | |
Welcome to season 3 of The Seismic Shift podcast! This season Michelle is sitting down with 20 bestselling authors—diving into how their work and research is shaking up the way we live and do business. Our first guest is organizational psychologist and chancellor professor, Steven Rogelberg. Steven is an expert when it comes to meetings, specifically how to build a better meeting. During today’s conversation Steven and Michelle take a look at the intention behind meetings, why meetings have become so arduous, and how exactly to make those meetings better—for employees and leaders alike. Steven pulls from his years of research to outline how meetings are primarily about connection, and that those connections are only made through being intentional, asking questions of your people, and ending each meeting with clear action steps. Michelle and Steven conclude their conversation by taking a look at one-on-one meetings specifically, and how these types of meetings build relational capital between leader and employee. Thanks for tuning in to this first episode of season 3! We can’t wait to dive into more conversations that are shifting how we work and live. Check out Steven’s newest book on one-on-one meetings here: https://www.amazon.com/Glad-We-Met-Science-Meetings/dp/0197641873. CHAPTERS 00:00 The Purpose of Meetings: Connection Over Elimination Special thanks to our friend Brian Wayy for the theme music this season! | |||
| We're Back! with Season 3!! | 25 Sep 2024 | 00:00:43 | |
Welcome back to season 3 of the Seismic Shift podcast!! We're so excited to tell you all that it is launching on October 2nd. The Seismic Shift podcast is sponsored by Loyola University New Orleans and we'll be interviewing 20 best selling authors and they'll be talking about the seismic shifts that are shaking up how we work and how we live. So please tune in, like, subscribe, follow, share, and we'll see you all on October 2nd. | |||
| Building Rhythms & Rituals in the Age of AI, featuring Tim Williamson | 15 Apr 2026 | 00:34:35 | |
Tim Williamson—founder and CEO of NewCo—maps the seismic shift he’s watching unfold: AI accelerating change while humans decide whether to lean in or lock down. He and Dr. Michelle K. Johnston trace how New Orleans’ superpower—real connection—can become a competitive advantage in the next innovation cycle. Tim unpacks why most new ideas die at the “Thanksgiving table,” how supportive ecosystems keep curiosity alive, and why rhythms and rituals are more than fun—they’re civic glue that helps communities recover from shocks. The conversation lands on a bold vision: AI freeing time, humans reconnecting, and creativity surging into a new renaissance. CHAPTERS: Special thanks to our friend Brian Wayy for the theme music this season! Follow Michelle for more inspiring content: Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheSeismicShiftwithMichelle | |||
| Say It Skillfully, featuring Molly Tschang | 01 Apr 2026 | 00:40:29 | |
Molly Tschang doesn’t sugarcoat it: most workplaces don’t suffer from a lack of talent—they suffer from people holding back what they really think. In this episode, host Dr. Michelle K. Johnston sits down with Molly—co-author of Say It Skillfully with Marshall Goldsmith—to talk about the real reason teams stall: disconnection, fear, and leaders who unknowingly make it unsafe to speak up. Michelle and Molly also explore seismic shifts in leadership: the rise of leaders willing to lead when it’s inconvenient, and the growing urgency for workplaces where truth can be spoken without punishment. Molly ends with a mic-drop reminder for anyone feeling stuck: you have choices—find environments that deserve you, then bring your full voice to the table. CHAPTERS: Special thanks to our friend Brian Wayy for the theme music this season! Follow Michelle for more inspiring content: Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheSeismicShiftwithMichelle | |||
| Emotional Optimism & Leading with Heart featuring Claude Silver | 19 Nov 2025 | 00:34:05 | |
Chief Heart Officer Claude Silver (VaynerMedia/VaynerX) joins Michelle to unpack why the real “seismic shift” at work is bringing our humanity back. From emotional intelligence and psychological safety to trust, belonging, and authentic leadership, Claude lays out a practical roadmap leaders can use today—especially with Gen Z and Gen Alpha demanding purpose, flexibility, and voice. Claude shares her non-linear journey to becoming a Chief Heart Officer, the three-part structure of her book Be Yourself at Work (you → team → culture), and tangible moves to show up with heart—starting with knowing your non-negotiables and strengths. If you’re trying to attract and retain top talent, reduce burnout, and build a culture where people actually want to stay, this conversation is your playbook. Chapters Special thanks to our friend Brian Wayy for the theme music this season! Follow Michelle for more inspiring content: Watch the podcast on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheSeismicShiftwithMichelle | |||
| Season 4 of The Seismic Shift is here! | 05 Nov 2025 | 00:01:00 | |
Season 4 of the Seismic Shift podcast is here—and it’s all about the seismic shifts in you. Host Michelle Johnston tees up a season packed with practical tips you can use right away to create more connection and drive better results at work and in life. Expect candid insights, actionable takeaways, and stories that challenge how you lead, communicate, and collaborate. This season, she's joined by some incredible voices, including Marshall Goldsmith (co-author of her latest book, The Seismic Shift in You), Mita Mallick (author of The Devil Emails at Midnight), and Claude Silver, the first-ever Chief Heart Officer at Vayner Media, to name a few. From leadership habits to culture-building and human-centered performance, each conversation zeroes in on what actually moves the needle—so you can grow yourself and your team. Special thanks to Loyola University New Orleans for their generous support. | |||