Leadership Elevation: Mastering the Human Element

Episoder

• 
  I Respectfully Disagree: How to Have Difficult Conversations in a Divided World, with Justin Jones-Fosu 14.04.2026 31min

  In this podcast episode, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Justin Jones-Fosu about his book, I Respectfully Disagree: How to Have Difficult Conversations in a Divided World. Justin Jones-Fosu is the embodiment of energy, both at home as a dedicated father to two spirited children and atop the world's highest peaks, having recently conquered one of the famed 7 Summits. But Justin's passion for elevation doesn't end with trekking, it's mirrored in his professional ascent as a captivating business speaker, innovative social entrepreneur, and insightful workplace researcher. At the helm of Work. Meaningful., Justin is the driving force and CEO behind a movement that empowers organizations across the globe, delivering over 50 keynote addresses a year on the pivotal topics of meaningful work and inclusion. His mission is to ignite a transformation in corporate culture, guiding organizations and individuals to ascend to their peak potential through mastery of mindset, purpose, and performance. Justin is not only a pathfinder in the wilderness but also in the literary world, authoring essential reads such as "Your WHY Matters NOW," "The Inclusive Mindset," and his latest thought-provoker, “I Respectfully Disagree: How to have Difficult Conversations in a Divided World.” His work is a compass for those seeking direction on creating connections in an often-fragmented society. With a flair for infusing humor into his well-researched content, Justin doesn't just give a speech; he crafts an experience, leaving his audience not just informed but transformed. His approach is not merely to inform but to inspire, not just to direct but to make a difference. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• 
  How Companies Can Operationalize Agility for All Teams, with Juan Betancourt 07.04.2026 25min

  In this podcast episode, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Juan Betancourt about how companies can operationalize agility for all teams. Juan Betancourt, CEO of Humantelligence, is a visionary leader with a lifelong commitment to reshaping the business landscape for the better. Having observed the limitations of conventional human capital management systems during his time in the software industry, Juan recognized a need for innovation. It was this realization that led him to Humantelligence, where he saw the potential to revolutionize productivity, motivation, and employee retention while making it accessible to all. With a track record of revitalizing global brands like Puma and overseeing the US division of Décathlon, Juan's expertise is unmatched. A Harvard economics graduate with an MBA from The Wharton School, Juan is committed to making work better for all and actively engages in community leadership roles.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• 
  Balancing Team Dynamics and Leadership, with Captain Kelly J. Gordon 31.03.2026 32min

  In this podcast episode, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Captain Kelly J. Gordon about balancing team dynamics and leadership. Captain Kelly J. Gordon is an accomplished motor yacht captain, public speaker, social media influencer, and the 2022 recipient of A Crew Yachting's Master 500-GT award. The former chemistry professor grew up on a farm in a small town in Indiana, where she developed the work ethic and drive that have made her successful. Her thirst for adventure has led her to become one of the busiest and most respected captains. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• 
  Building Highly Engaged Teams in Today's Performance-Focused Environment, with Dr. Roger A. Gerard 24.03.2026 33min

  In this podcast episode, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with how leaders can build highly engaged teams in today's performance-focused environment. Dr. Roger A. Gerard is the owner of Sloan & Gerard Consulting, a private consulting practice serving executives and boards in strategic planning, operational planning, executive coaching, and management development. He also specializes in process improvement, and the use of lean methodologies in bringing about significant and measurable organizational improvement. He is the former Chief Learning Officer for ThedaCare, an integrated healthcare delivery system, retiring from that position in 2014 after 23 years in that role. Dr. Gerard has a 52-year career history leading executive and management development initiatives, in both large and small organizational environments. His work has been primarily within the healthcare industry, but he has also spent a quarter of his career consulting in manufacturing and service industries nationwide. In addition, he is a creative photographer, and provides help to his wife Debra in her fine art business (www.sloangerardstudio.com). Previously, Dr. Gerard served as Vice President of Northern Michigan Hospitals and as the Director of Organizational Development. Before joining NMH, he was Creative Manager for Quality Systems for Sandy Corporation where he consulted with major clients (Burroughs, IBM, General Motors, Hyatt, etc.) on systemic leadership development and quality improvement projects. Dr. Gerard is the author of Owning the Room: Leading with Mind, Heart and Spirit to Make Extraordinary Choices in a Demanding World and the forthcoming title, Lead With Purpose: Reignite Passion and Engagement For Professionals in Crisis. He also co-authored On the Mend: Revolutionizing Healthcare to Save Lives and Transform the Industry. Dr. Gerard has presented at numerous national conferences and locally throughout Wisconsin and Michigan on leadership and lean in the healthcare industry. He earned his Ph.D. in Management and Applied Decision Sciences from Walden University in 2001. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• 
  Leaders' Role in Promoting and Supporting Inclusion and Belonging, with Alida Miranda-Wolff 17.03.2026 30min

  In this podcast episode, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Alida Miranda-Wolff about leaders' role in promoting and supporting inclusion and belonging. Alida Miranda-Wolff is a diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) practitioner committed to teaching love and cultivating belonging. She is an Amazon-bestselling author of two books with HarperCollins Leadership, Cultures of Belonging: Building Inclusive Organizations That Last (February 2022) and The First-Time Manager: Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (May 2024). She is principal at SR4 Partners, a full-service DEIB and employee advocacy firm, which serves hundreds of clients across the world. She hosts Care Work with Alida Miranda-Wolff, a podcast about what it means to offer care for a living. In 2021, Alida received The University of Chicago’s Early Career Achievement Award. She is a graduate of The University of Chicago and holds certificates from the School of the Art Institute (graphic design) and Georgetown University (DEI). She lives in Chicago with her partner, toddler, rabbits, and cats. When she’s not working, reading, writing, or parenting, Alida is wild gardening, interior designing, and falling down research rabbit holes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• 
  The Future of Social Impact Investing: Trends and Opportunities, with Shahar Botzer 10.03.2026 25min

  In this podcast episode, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Shahar Botzer about the future of social impact investing and current trends and opportunities. Shahar Botzer is co-founder and managing partner at Good Company, an early-stage VC fund with a mission to back bold entrepreneurs who solve the world’s biggest challenges for people and the planet. They invest in software-driven innovations in Digital Health, Education, Energy, Circular Economy, and Agriculture because they believe these are the domains where technology can rewrite the future. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• 
  Creating a Sense of Community in a Highly-Fragmented Workplace and World, with Jamie Ramsden 03.03.2026 30min

  In this podcast episode, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Jamie Ramsden about creating a sense of community in a highly-fragmented workplace and world. Jamie Ramsden is CEO & Founder at Adastra Leadership. He is an Executive Leadership Coach and Former CEO, and is the author of "Let's Go!" Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• 
  Recruiting and Interviewing in a Tight Labor Market: How to Identify 'High-Probability' Hires, with Paul Falcone 24.02.2026 33min

  In this podcast episode, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Paul Falcone about recruiting and interviewing in a tight labor market and how to identify 'high-probability' hires. Paul Falcone is a renowned expert on effective hiring, performance management, and leadership development, specializing in helping companies build higher performing leadership teams. He spent the last three decades in human resources executive roles at organizations including Nickelodeon, Paramount Pictures, NBCUniversal, Time Warner, and City of Hope Cancer Center Hospital. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• 
  Becoming a Change Ninja, with Tammy Watchorn 17.02.2026 28min

  In this podcast episode, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Tammy Watchorn about what it takes to become a "Change Ninja"! Tammy Watchorn is an experienced change management specialist who honed her expertise through years in the public sector, where she navigated complex organizational challenges. After encountering numerous obstacles to innovation, she developed a strategic approach to change management that she calls the "Change Ninja" methodology—focusing on subtle, effective techniques that eliminate barriers and resistance. As the author of "The Change Ninja Handbook," Tammy offers a unique, gamified approach to change management, helping professionals overcome workplace resistance through practical, often humorous strategies. Following a significant personal challenge, she applied her professional expertise to her own circumstances, demonstrating the universal applicability of her methods. This experience inspired her second book, "The Change Ninja Returns, and this time it's personal," scheduled for release in Autumn 2024. Tammy's work combines neuroscience principles with proven change management tools to help individuals and organizations navigate transitions more effectively and create space for creativity and innovation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• 
  Leveraging Talent to Win in the Future of Work, with Johnathan Grzybowski 10.02.2026 28min

  In this podcast episode, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Johnathan Grzybowski about leveraging your organizational talent to win in the future of work. Johnathan Grzybowski is Co-Founder at Penji and it is his goal in life if to help small business owners, agencies, and entrepreneurs with their biggest problems, finding reliable talent to help them with the growth of their business. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• 
  Effectively Leading Diverse Teams, with Kathryn Landis 04.02.2026 27min

  In this podcast episode, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Kathryn Landis about effectively leading diverse teams. Kathryn Landis helps organizations accelerate success by empowering growth-minded leaders and their teams with executive coaching, team coaching, offsites, and leadership development training in today's dynamic business environment. Kathryn's insights and strategies have gained recognition in prestigious publications like Harvard Business Review, Fast Company, and Forbes, further establishing her reputation as a sought-after expert in the field. She holds an MBA from Northwestern University, Certificate in Executive and Organizational Coaching from Columbia University, Certificate in Diversity and Inclusion from Cornell University and BS from Indiana University. Moreover, Kathryn is a National Diversity Council Certified Diversity Professional (NDCCDP), Associate Certified Coach by the International Coaching Federation (ACC) and Professor of C-Suite Leadership New York University.   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• 
  The Importance of Empathetic Leadership in the Modern World of Work, with Ashlie Marshall 03.02.2026 27min

  In this podcast episode, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Ashlie Marshall about the importance of empathetic leadership in the modern world of work. Ashlie Marshall is a results-driven Chief Strategy Officer at Tier Level who transforms digital marketing challenges into growth opportunities. Since joining the company in 2018, she rapidly advanced from Account Manager to CSO through her exceptional ability to build client relationships and deliver measurable business outcomes. In her current role, Ashlie collaborates with business owners to develop customized digital marketing strategies that align with their organizational culture while driving revenue growth. She simultaneously leads Tier Level's strategic initiatives, establishing infrastructure that positions the company as an industry leader. Ashlie's professional journey reflects her determination to overcome obstacles and help others succeed. Her balanced perspective as a strategist, marketing professional, team leader, wife, and mother informs her holistic approach to business challenges. Through authentic partnerships and forward-thinking leadership, Ashlie continues to create meaningful impact for clients and colleagues alike. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• 
  Amazon HR Cuts Signal Dangerous Trend Across Corporate America, with Erin DeVito 28.01.2026 27min

  In this podcast episode, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Erin DeVito about Amazon HR cuts signal dangerous trend across Corporate America. Erin DeVito is the General Manager of Impact North America, leading teams that design transformative, people-centric learning experiences. Since joining Impact in 2012, she has helped organizations navigate change, strengthen leadership, and build cultures where people thrive. With more than a decade of experience across operations and senior leadership, Erin brings a deep belief in the power of human connection to everything she does. A mom of five, she’s constantly reminded of the beauty in imperfection, growth, and humour in chaos—and she channels that perspective into creating workplaces where people can bring their whole selves to work and do their best, most meaningful work together. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• 
  Creating a Magnetic Culture in Your Organization, with Cyndi Wenninghoff 27.01.2026 30min

  In this podcast episode, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Cyndi Wenninghoff about creating a magnetic culture in your organization. Cyndi Wenninghoff has over 10 years of experience working in human resources in various industries including advertising, insurance, and technology. She currently works as the Director of Employee Success at Quantum Workplace in Omaha where she oversees employee engagement, recruiting, DE&I, onboarding, and retention efforts. Previously she was the Director of Human Resources at SilverStone Group, a HUB International company as well as the Head of Talent at Bailey Lauerman. Outside of work, she is a member of the Human Resources Association of the Midlands (HRAM) and the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM). Additionally, she serves as the Director-Elect for the HR Nebraska State Council. She is also the Communications and PR Coordinator for RISE Omaha, a motivating speaker series designed to inspire and unite women throughout Omaha, helping to connect women leaders and build the next generation of female business leaders. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• 
  How Companies Can Tap into the Humanity of their People in the Era of AI, with Lauren Tropeano 21.01.2026 25min

  In this podcast episode, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Lauren Tropeano about how companies can tap into the humanity of their people in the era of AI. Lauren Tropeano is the Chief People Officer at Docebo. She brings over 20 years of Human Resources expertise to Docebo, having led diverse, multinational teams for several global, high growth tech organizations. Prior to Docebo, Lauren was the Chief People Officer at Skillshare, a leader in creative learning, from 2022 to 2024. She also held several executive roles leading global People teams at tech companies such as DraftKings from 2018 to 2022, and Cogito, Pivotal Software and Dell/EMC prior. In those leadership roles, she led teams and organizations through several periods of rapid growth and transformation. She is also the founder of Destination People, a boutique human resources consulting firm. Lauren received her MBA from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst and B.A. in Organizational Behavior from Boston College. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• 
  Integrating Empathetic Leadership into Your Strategies, with Jevon Wooden 21.01.2026 34min

  In this podcast episode, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Jevon Wooden integrating empathetic leadership into your strategies. Jevon Wooden is a sought-after speaker, coach, and author specializing in empathetic leadership. A veteran, CEO, and expert in emotional intelligence and DISC, he empowers leaders to build high-performing teams, foster thriving workplace cultures, and achieve sustainable business growth. Jevon's insights have been featured in Forbes, Entrepreneur, Inc. Magazine, and more.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• 
  LEAD TO BEAT: The Leadership Rhythm That Shapes Tomorrow, with Jonathan Escobar Marin 14.01.2026 27min

  In this podcast episode, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Jonathan Escobar Marin about his recent book, " LEAD TO BEAT: The Leadership Rhythm That Shapes Tomorrow." Jonathan Escobar Marin has been bridging the nuanced gap between strategy and execution – and between executives and their associates – for the world's leading corporations for over two decades. His distinguished efforts have resulted in an exceptional track record, marked by over 320 successful transformations across more than thirty-two countries. After leaving school at sixteen, he later transformed adversity into advantage, ultimately guiding global boards and C-suites across FMCG, retail, pharmaceutical, and tech sectors, where he has consistently empowered firms to outperform markets and dismantle organizational complacency.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• 
  Creating a Supportive Environment for Organizational Change, with Mindy Vail 13.01.2026 29min

  In this podcast episode, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Mindy Vail about creating a supportive environment for organizational change. Mindy Vail has more than two decades of experience in leadership development, change management, education, and public speaking. Working with emerging leaders to veteran executives, her focus is cultivating a growth mindset and fostering resilience. Her new book, The Mindshift Effect: Where Change Management Is Redefined and Leadership Is Defined (April 16, 2024), provides a wellspring of inspiration for leading meaningful organizational change.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• 
  How To Evolve Your Style When Your Team, Culture, or Market Changes, with James Davies 07.01.2026 28min

  In this podcast episode, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with James Davies about how to evolve your style when your team, culture, or market changes. James Davies is the Chief Executive Officer of Kinetic Data, a Minneapolis-based software company focused on empowering organizations to deliver unified digital experiences across complex technology ecosystems. With over a decade at Kinetic, James has helped evolve the company from its workflow roots into a leader in digital experience platforms serving both enterprise and government sectors. Before assuming the CEO role, James served in multiple operational and leadership capacities, shaping the company’s growth strategy, culture, and partner ecosystem. Under his leadership, Kinetic Data reorganized around four key pillars—Growth, Product, Success, and Operations—creating an agile, scalable structure designed to drive collaboration and efficiency. James is known for his transparent and people-first leadership style, often communicating directly with employees through his “Friday Thoughts” updates—open reflections on company direction, lessons learned, and team progress. His approach blends operational discipline with an emphasis on empowerment and trust, traits that have earned him recognition for cultivating both performance and authenticity inside growing tech organizations An advocate for sustainable growth and innovation, James is passionate about bridging the gap between legacy systems and modern experiences—particularly within government and large-scale enterprises. He also champions the “low-code revolution,” believing that empowering small teams to build and adapt workflows quickly is key to organizational agility. A graduate of James Madison University, James credits his alma mater with shaping his collaborative, team-first mindset. Outside of work, he’s known for drawing leadership parallels to his love of restoring classic Toyota Land Cruisers—symbols, to him, of durability, reliability, and purpose-driven engineering. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
• 
  Developing Your Strengths to Create a Positive Change, with Josefine Campbell 06.01.2026 28min

  In this podcast episode, Dr. Jonathan H. Westover talks with Josefine Campbell about developing your strengths to create a positive change. Josefine Campbell is a distinguished executive coach, educator, and inspirational speaker who empowers multinational leaders, companies, and employees to unleash their full potential. Through meaningful conversations, she elevates clients' situations by maintaining an open, non-judgmental mindset, sharing data-driven insights that challenge conventional thinking, and emphasizing actionable outcomes that create tangible impact. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices