Welcome to the Charismatic Leader Podcast.

In this episode, Brett McDermott sits down with Lyndsay Dowd, who spent 23 years climbing the ranks at IBM before turning a career collapse into two best‑selling books, a top 2.5% global podcast, and a worldwide speaking brand. Lyndsay shows us what reinvention really looks like—and how leaders can do it too.

Together, Brett and Lyndsay explore why culture starts at the top, how recognition fuels performance, and why appreciation is a habit that rewires the way we see the world. Lyndsay shares her framework of power skills—trust, communication, delegation, and radical candor—and explains why they’re far too powerful to be called “soft.” She also reveals the importance of listening tours for new leaders, creating space for autonomy and failure, and why side hustles can be the first step toward reinvention.

This episode is packed with actionable insights for leaders, entrepreneurs, and anyone ready to reinvent themselves with courage and care.

Key Takeaways:

• Why culture starts at the top and trust is a leader’s currency

• The power of genuine appreciation to fuel teams and relationships

• How delegation creates opportunities for others to shine

• Why radical candor must be delivered with care, not cruelty

• The importance of listening tours for new leaders

• How side hustles can be the first step toward reinvention