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Seema, a leader in business transformation, shared how she realized that leadership needed a serious overhaul to create value without causing harm. Her experience launching Canada’s first Social Finance Bank and working in finance across the country gave her a unique perspective on what works and what doesn’t in leadership. I recognized her drive to improve leadership and make a real impact, something she’s now bringing to the world through her book.

Seema and I had a tough but necessary conversation about why so many workplaces today are toxic. The issue isn’t just lousy management; leaders are laser-focused on short-term targets while ignoring the human side of business. We both agreed that authentic leadership means creating an environment where people feel valued, engaged, and can do meaningful work. People don’t quit companies—they leave bad leaders.

I shared my experience turning around a high-turnover primary care clinic by doing something surprisingly simple—listening. Great things happen when leaders stop dictating and start understanding their people’s needs. Humility is key. Seema echoed this, emphasizing that leadership is about gathering perspectives, being fully present, and observing challenges with a fresh lens. If leaders truly listened more and talked less, they’d be amazed at what they could learn.

Seema’s new book explores how consciousness can transform organizations and society. She first felt the pull to write in 2016, but the pandemic gave her message new urgency. Despite the skeptics, she boldly chose to walk away from a corporate consulting gig in Toronto to finish her book. That level of commitment to change is precisely what leadership needs today.

We talked about how leaders who fail to adapt don’t just hurt their businesses—they create ripple effects that impact families and communities. History is full of once-dominant companies that collapsed because their leaders ignored external changes. The lesson? Adaptability isn’t optional. Leaders must be open to new experiences, actively listen to their teams, and adjust their strategies before it’s too late. Business isn’t static, and leadership shouldn’t be, either.

Great leaders don’t pretend to have all the answers—they ask better questions. I emphasized the power of vulnerability in leadership, while Seema reinforced the importance of trusting the expertise within your team. When leaders foster a culture of learning and openness, innovation thrives. Seema’s book, launching March 28th, aims to start a much-needed dialogue about this shift in leadership.

Seema and I also discussed the impact of our respective podcasts. She praised the conversational nature of my show, and we explored the role of storytelling in leadership. We also touched on her journey from burnout to being a book author, which is an essential reminder that leaders must prioritize their well-being to make a lasting impact.

Book:  https://amzn.to/43jGXI6

Website:  https://www.seemadhanoa.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seemadhanoa/

Matthew Lesko, an 81-year-old entrepreneur, shared his life journey, his realization about government money programs, and his desire to educate people about them. He also discussed the importance of giving and helping others, the role of technology in sharing information, and the significant income disparity in the US. The conversation concluded with a discussion on personal growth, the widening income gap, and the importance of taking control of one's own destiny.

Transformative Leadership Insights: As the founder of Conscious Business Consulting, Monika has empowered high-profile clients like EY, Unilever, and Toyota to enhance their leadership capabilities and prevent burnout, showcasing her ability to drive results across diverse industries. Her work with leaders from 68 countries provides unique cultural perspectives that can inspire actionable changes within workplace environments.

Website:  https://monikaguzek.com/

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/monika-guzek/

Courses:  https://monikaguzek.com/sklep/

Monika and I dove into the tough realities of today’s world—everything from the lingering effects of the pandemic and global conflicts to economic struggles and shifting governments. One of the biggest challenges we see? The decline of joy in the workplace. Monika pointed out that the blending of personal and corporate life plays a huge role in this. She stressed the importance of embracing cultural and generational diversity, with leaders stepping up to empower their teams and create truly inclusive environments. We also explored how social skills are critical in today’s workplace—many people feel overwhelmed and struggle to manage their workload effectively.

Communication in a diverse workplace isn’t just about words—it’s about understanding the meaning behind them. Monika emphasized the need to strike a balance between positivity and tough conversations, as well as the importance of reading between the lines in different cultural contexts. I completely agreed. Clear communication is key, but so is recognizing cultural nuances. Personally, I appreciate direct communication and love using humor as a tool—even if it doesn’t always land perfectly. We both agreed that embracing these differences leads to stronger collaboration and better teamwork.

We also explored what it takes to build a thriving workplace culture—one where people feel connected and supported. Monika highlighted the importance of playfulness and fun at work, even bringing up how something as simple as Lego can spark creativity. That said, there’s a balance—some industries require a more structured approach. We also touched on the insights from The Culture Map, discussing how different cultural dimensions influence workplace interactions. At the end of the day, considering different perspectives makes for a more productive and enjoyable work environment.

Trust is the foundation of any great workplace. When leaders and employees trust each other, they can create better products and services that make a real impact. I emphasized how crucial it is for leaders to foster that trust—because without it, everything else falls apart. Monika added that trust-building requires awareness of cultural differences and individual needs. It’s all about open communication, self-awareness, and a conscious approach to understanding those we work with. When we get this right, we create workplaces where people feel valued, heard, and truly connected.

In this episode of the Breakfast Leadership Show, Michael welcomes Dana Cox, founder and CEO of Fixed Coaching and Consulting, to discuss the realities of career advancement for high-achieving women without sacrificing well-being. Dana shares her mission to help women rise in leadership while avoiding the burnout trap.

They tackle the unique challenges female executives face, including the “third shift” of mental load that often goes unnoticed. Michael and Dana discuss why work-life harmony—not balance—is the real goal and how men can step up at home to support true equity. They also examine how COVID-19 reshaped workplace expectations, the crucial role of self-awareness in preventing burnout, and the natural leadership strengths women bring to the table.

Michael and Dana explore the power of self-reflection and boundary-setting—two critical tools for sustainable success. Dana shares her burnout journey and how it fueled her book, From Burnout to Badass. The key takeaway? You don’t have to reinvent yourself to find fulfillment. Small, intentional shifts can create a meaningful work-life dynamic that works for you, not against you.

Burnout prevention isn’t just about time off—it’s about prioritizing yourself every day. Dana and Michael discuss practical self-care strategies that help leaders maintain energy, focus, and productivity. They discuss the value of self-awareness in both personal and professional life and highlight key insights from Dana’s book on overcoming burnout and creating a life that feels both successful and sustainable.

🚀 Ready to take control of your career and well-being? Tune in now!

Website:  https://www.danalcox.com/

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/danalcox

Book: From Burnout to Badass  https://amzn.to/4bCxH47

Success isn’t just about climbing the ranks—it’s about leading with impact while living a life that feels as fulfilling as it looks. Dana L. Cox is dedicated to helping ambitious women and forward-thinking organizations achieve both.

With over two decades of senior leadership experience, Dana has navigated the high-stakes world of financial services and tech, understanding firsthand the pressures and expectations that come with leadership. She knows what it takes to excel without burnout and is on a mission to ensure women don’t have to choose between success and well-being.

As the Founder of FIX Coaching & Consulting, Dana delivers results-driven coaching and leadership programs that go beyond theory. She equips women with the strategies, confidence, and clarity to lead boldly—without compromise. For organizations, she drives efficiency, fosters inclusive cultures, and helps build workplaces where diverse leadership thrives.

Dana’s approach is accurate, actionable, and transformative. She’s here to cut through the noise, provide the tools and support needed for lasting success, and ensure that thriving professionally and personally is not just a goal but a reality.

In this episode, Michael D. Levitt and Dr. Greg Giuliano explore the evolution of leadership from a rigid, top-down approach to a more coaching-driven model. Greg highlights the shift in workplace dynamics, where employees now seek empathetic, adaptable, and empowering leaders. Using the analogy of a soccer coach, he illustrates how successful organizations recognize that leaders should set the vision, but the team is responsible for delivering results.

Michael and Greg discuss the critical role of empathy and curiosity, especially in times of change. Michael shares his experience transforming a clinic with high turnover into a thriving workplace by truly understanding his team’s needs. Greg reinforces that great leaders create environments where people are motivated to give their best—not out of obligation but because they feel valued. They also discuss the importance of allowing employees to operate in their “sweet spot” and equipping them with the necessary resources to succeed.

The conversation shifts to the benefits of integrating summer students into an organization. Michael underscores that fostering a strong workplace culture isn’t just about productivity—it’s about creating an environment where employees feel appreciated and supported, which naturally leads to retention and attraction of top talent. He emphasizes that when leaders prioritize employee well-being, they build a workplace where people want to stay and grow.

Greg emphasizes that leaders can shape positive team cultures, even within large organizations. Leaders can drive engagement and retention by setting clear expectations, establishing healthy boundaries, and prioritizing team well-being. He introduces the mindset of "serving to lead"—a principle inspired by the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst—highlighting that leadership isn’t about authority but creating the conditions for teams to thrive.

Michael shares a powerful story from his time in insurance automation software, where an overlooked installation department wholly transformed under exemplary leadership. The department became a well-respected, high-performing unit through quarterly training sessions and team-building activities. Their teamwork and strategic execution were so impactful that they were handpicked for a significant project in New Orleans, ultimately earning glowing client recommendations. This story reinforces that investing in team culture leads to stronger performance and long-term success.

Greg and Michael discuss the parallels between therapy and leadership, emphasizing the importance of emotional intelligence in building resilient teams. With his background in therapy and coaching, Greg explains how leaders who nurture personal connections within their teams create stronger, more engaged workplaces. They conclude that self-awareness and empathy are non-negotiable skills for today’s leaders.

To wrap up, Greg shares insights into his work at Ultra Leadership, where he provides executive coaching, team development, and change management consulting. 

Dr. Greg Giuliano is an advisor and executive coach to senior leaders and teams worldwide. He founded GA | Ultra Leadership, designing leadership and team development strategies that drive organizational transformation. He aims to help leaders and teams grow their capacity to enable positive disruption for markets, organizations, teams, and individuals.

Website: ultraleadership.com

Todd Bertsch is a dynamic entrepreneur, motivational speaker, life-optimization coach, and host of The BOLT Podcast. His remarkable journey from overcoming challenges in his youth to a life-changing transformation in his 20s has shaped his career and established him as a respected figure in digital marketing, education, and leadership. In 2009,

Todd founded Evolve Marketing, a successful digital agency that reflects his curious spirit and dedication to excellence. Driven by a passion to inspire, Todd's mission is to encourage individuals to embrace change, cultivate a growth mindset, and lead lives filled with purpose and fulfillment. His commitment to community service is evident through his involvement on numerous nonprofit boards, and he currently serves as the president of Leadership Akron Signature Class 39.

Todd shares how he founded Evolve Marketing in 2009 during the recession, leveraging his prior experience to build a digital marketing agency rooted in a positive, family-like culture for his team.

The COVID-19 pandemic became a turning point for Todd, leading him to work with a high-performance coach and complete programs like Brendon Burchard’s. This journey sparked his transition into keynote speaking, life coaching, and launching a podcast focused on personal development.

Todd highlights the importance of curiosity and embracing a growth mindset. He notes that many people get stuck in a fixed way of thinking, and simple habits like daily gratitude can drive meaningful personal and professional transformation.

Todd and Michael discuss the impact of leaders fostering a safe, empathetic work environment where employees feel supported and encouraged to share challenges. This strengthens trust and cultivates a true sense of community within organizations.

Todd shares his website and social media details, while Michael expresses appreciation for the discussion and interest in staying connected for future collaborations.

Join Michael Levitt, Chief Burnout Officer of the Breakfast Leadership Network, as he dives into the exciting world of Podcasthon 2025! In this episode, Michael introduces Podcasthon—an annual event that unites the global podcasting community to support charities and amplify causes that truly make a difference. Learn how this powerful movement blends purpose-driven leadership, sustainability, and human-centered values with podcasting’s unique ability to create real-world impact.

Discover why 2025 is set to be a breakthrough year for leaders focusing on social impact and positive change. Michael shares insights on the latest leadership trends centered around people-first initiatives, sustainability, and aligning with broader causes. From donating and volunteering to simply tuning in, he explains how every bit of support counts.

🌐 Visit Podcasthon.org to learn more about this inspiring event, the causes it supports, and how you can contribute! Whether you’re a listener, a leader, or a changemaker, this episode will show you how to make a difference through the power of podcasting.

Don’t miss this inspiring conversation that empowers us to use our voices for good!

In this episode of the Breakfast Leadership Show, I sit down with Lior, a self-taught technologist and growth expert who has been building and scaling businesses since he was 14. Originally from Israel, Lior moved to the U.S. 14 years ago and has successfully built and sold multiple companies. Now, as a fractional Chief Technology Officer (CTO) and Chief Growth Officer (CGO), he helps businesses navigate technology and growth strategies without the need for full-time executive hires.

Lior shares invaluable insights on problem-solving, attention to detail, and understanding cause and effect—critical skills for success in any industry. He also challenges the misconception that only certain people can excel in technology, encouraging more professionals to explore coding and tech-driven solutions.

Technology is a game-changer for modern businesses, but navigating it can be complex and expensive. Lior and I discuss the growing need for experienced technology leaders and how companies can benefit from a fractional CTO. Rather than hiring a full-time executive, companies can leverage a senior tech expert part-time, gaining high-level strategic guidance without the hefty price tag.

We also explore a fascinating market shift: Companies are shifting away from relying solely on external tech providers and returning to in-house technology solutions. A fractional CTO helps businesses stay agile and competitive in this evolving landscape.

Beyond technology, fractional leadership is transforming executive roles across industries. Whether it's a CTO, CMO, or CFO, businesses are realizing the benefits of bringing in high-caliber talent as needed. I highlight how fractional leaders drive performance, eliminate organizational silos, and provide specialized expertise—an especially crucial advantage in today’s remote-first world.

Lior and I also discuss how fractional executives bring expertise and a vast network of connections, helping companies access opportunities they wouldn’t otherwise have. He compares hiring a fractional executive to working with a law or CPA firm—tapping into top-tier professionals without the full-time overhead.

Fractional leadership isn’t just about cutting costs but elevating business strategy. Lior breaks down how fractional CTOs support leadership teams by providing strategic insights, keeping companies ahead of tech trends, and ensuring businesses adapt to the ever-changing digital landscape. I liken it to having a fractional cleaning crew—you get expert-level service without the commitment of a full-time hire.

If your business wants to level up its technology and leadership without the constraints of full-time executive salaries, this episode is packed with actionable takeaways. Connect with Lior to explore how fractional expertise can transform your company’s growth.

Serial entrepreneur specializing in digital transformation - mobile, web, and desktop. Founded his first company at 14, Lior built over three technology companies and exited two while still in his 20s. He's worked on anything from promoting DIY Chicken Coups to extensive scale marketing automation systems.

Website:  https://ctox.com/our-team/

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/liorweinstein/