INSTINCT

By Kari Sulenes and Natalie Rothfels

A podcast about leadership, one animal at a time.

Join executive coaches Kari Sulenes and Natalie Rothfels as we uncover what humans can learn about leadership from the animals all around us.

On eac... more

· Business

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FAQs about INSTINCT:

How many episodes does INSTINCT have?

The podcast currently has 8 episodes available.

INSTINCT episodes:

November 30, 2023The allure of anglerfish: Slow, steady, and deadly
In the season finale of INSTINCT, we plunge into the ocean's depths to uncover the secrets of the anglerfish. Renowned for its adaptability, leaders can learn from the resilience of this deep-sea dweller.
Anglerfish are masters of attraction, and opportunistic predators, using a bioluminescent lure to attract unsuspecting prey. Join us as we discover the surprising parallels between the anglerfish and successful leadership, particularly for founders.
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In today’s episode, we discuss:
Why frontier tech founders should study the anglerfish

How the anglerfish thrives in extreme conditions with limited resources

Lessons on authority, delegation, and responsibility

What parasitic mating teaches us

Knowing your role, and effective collaboration

Hunting and survival strategies of anglerfish

Season wrap-up
—
Referenced:
Check out this video of the deep-sea anglerfish mating pair (which shows the vast size difference between the male and female fish): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XhsyZnVx2rQ

National Geographic’s deep dive into anglerfish: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/fish/facts/anglerfish

Learn more about the bioluminescent lure and the weird reproduction strategies of this fish: https://www.livescience.com/deep-sea-anglerfish.html

Some pretty weird research suggesting that anglerfish have developed an immune system that is totally different than most animals (which is what enables the males to become parasites without the female body totally rejecting them): https://www.washington.edu/news/2020/07/30/deep-sea-anglerfishes-have-evolved-a-new-type-of-immune-system/
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Where to find Kari Sulenes:
Kari's company: https://joinpilea.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karisulenes
—
Where to find Natalie Rothfels:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nrothfels

Website: https://natalierothfels.com/
—
Production and distribution by: ⁠⁠https://www.supermix.io
...more
57min
November 16, 2023The novelty of newts: playing defense instead of offense
In today’s episode of INSTINCT we dive into the world of newts. These small salamanders showcase a remarkable blend of might and tenacity as they fiercely protect themselves in the wild.
Discover the art of outmaneuvering rivals, cultivating resilience across diverse environments, and crafting ingenious defense strategies to safeguard your domain. Join us as we uncover the secrets of newts, proving that playing defense can be valuable for leaders and companies alike.
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In today’s episode, we discuss:
How companies can develop regeneration and regrowth strategies

Crazy characteristics of newts, including their toxicity, and fascinating mating rituals

The numerous defense mechanisms of newts

Why the lifecycle of newts are similar to startups

Navigating shifting contexts, and developing environmental coping strategies

Posturing and protecting against potential competitors
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Referenced:
Researcher Elly Tanaka discusseshttps what we know about “organizer” cells’ role in regenerative limb creation (their lab researchers tail regeneration in the axolotl): //youtu.be/V1sXsaxZr8A?feature=shared

Why newts (and other salamanders) are important to their ecologies: https://www.usgs.gov/media/images/a-proactive-policy

Learn more about the 3 development stages of newt development: https://blog.greatparks.org/2022/03/what-the-eft-the-odd-life-cycle-of-the-eastern-newt/

During the mating process, the male deposits a spermatophore, and then the females decides, based on the success of the male’s courtship skills, whether to deposit the sack of sperm internally. Wow! So much consent?!: https://www.froglife.org/2017/03/27/croaking-science-courtship-reproductive-behaviour-newts-salamanders/

Image of an impressive defensive display (the unken reflex): https://www.usgs.gov/media/images/rough-skinned-newt-defensive-posture-epa-ponds-corvallis-or
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Where to find Kari Sulenes:
Kari's company: https://joinpilea.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karisulenes
—
Where to find Natalie Rothfels:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nrothfels

Website: https://natalierothfels.com/
—
Production and distribution by: ⁠⁠https://www.supermix.io
...more
1h 1min
November 09, 2023The elegance of elephants: quiet leadership and collective health
In today’s episode of INSTINCT we explore the world of elephants. These elegant creatures, with their complex social structures and behaviours, offer a treasure trove of insights for aspiring leaders and team builders.

Despite being the largest land mammals on earth, you can hardly hear them move — follow in their footsteps and learn how to master the art of 'quiet' leadership by prioritizing long-term success, team wellbeing, and cooperative leadership.
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In today’s episode, we discuss:
How elephants embrace experience, and learn from their elders

Diverse roles within elephant herds, including the matriarch leader

The strong bonds between herd members, and how this creates a shared consciousness

The remarkable memory of elephants

How elephants impart wisdom to younger generations

What makes elephants excellent communicators

Future-proofing to ensure survival

How social intelligence affects team performance
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Referenced:
Amboseli Trust for Elephants https://www.elephanttrust.org/research/#1552999697822-571c1d66-ca63

The research on mirror self-recognition (evidence that elephants may have some self-awareness): https://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.0608062103

The story of male elephants killing 40 rhinos, and what happened when elder males were introduced into the park: https://www.nature.com/articles/35044191

An synthesis on what we know about PTSD in elephants (especially after a traumatic experience like a matriarch dying): https://www.cbc.ca/natureofthings/features/new-research-shows-that-elephants-and-other-animals-can-suffer-from-ptsd
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Where to find Kari Sulenes:
Kari's company: https://joinpilea.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karisulenes
—
Where to find Natalie Rothfels:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nrothfels

Website: https://natalierothfels.com/
—
Production and distribution by: ⁠⁠https://www.supermix.io
...more
53min
November 02, 2023The challenge of cheetahs: speed and the burnout cycle
In today's episode, we’re chasing the cheetah’s secrets! From inspiring the "Move Fast and Break Things" mantra in business to their exceptional adaptability and unwavering determination, cheetahs teach business leaders the art of agility, speed and precision.
But that's not all – they also showcase the importance of downtime and co-regulation. Even nature's fastest sprinters understand the need to slow down, recharge, seek clarity in order to fine-tune their strategic focus. Join us as we draw lessons from the cheetah on how to conquer the corporate jungle.
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In today's episode, we cover:
The "Move Fast and Break Things" approach inspired by the cheetah's lightning speed

How single-minded strategy can sharpen your business focus

Applying the cheetah's precision and pragmatism to optimize resources

Changing direction at speed

Striking the balance between rigidity and flexibility in your business tactics

Learning from the cheetah's unique physical features to innovate in your own field

The importance of slowing down and recharging for sustained success

Embracing post-hunt clarity for strategic planning after success
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References:
Cheetahs can go up to about 70mph, but they can only sustain that speed for about 30 seconds (which we incorrectly state during the episode): www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/mammals/facts/cheetah

Cheetah Conservation Fund. "About Cheetahs." cheetah.org: https://cheetah.org/learn/about-cheetahs/

National Geographic. "Video Captures Rough Cheetah Mating.": www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/article/video-captures-rough-cheetah-mating-spd

Natalie mentions a podcast she listened to about cheetahs. That’s 'Just The Zoo of Us' cheetah episode: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0cN8riFO9Trfpa3bEZ7Iq5?si=fcaea293e32948b2 with conservation biologist Gabi Fleury.

Some other basic facts about cheetahs: https://cheetah.org/learn/about-cheetahs/

Africa Range-Wide Cheetah Conversation Initiative: https://cheetahconservationinitiative.com/cheetah/
—
Where to find Kari Sulenes:
Kari's company: https://joinpilea.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karisulenes
—
Where to find Natalie Rothfels:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nrothfels

Website: https://natalierothfels.com/
—
Production and distribution by: ⁠⁠https://www.supermix.io
...more
57min
October 26, 2023 The savviness of squirrels: virality and longevity
In today’s episode of INSTINCT, we step into the world of a unique creature close to Kari’s heart. Not too long ago, Kari received a stuffed squirrel as a symbolic gift representative of her character. Initially taken aback, Kari has grown to cherish the clever squirrel and its ties to leadership.
Squirrels expertly balance strategic thinking and persistent problem-solving, possess a remarkable ability to communicate with other species, and hold unshakable trust in themselves, the process, and their survival skills. If you’re concerned about the short-term focus in today’s business world, this episode is for you. The squirrel exemplifies the importance of adopting a long-term perspective for not just surviving but thriving.
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In today’s episode, we discuss:
• How squirrels became super survivors
• Their unique approach to risk management
• The link between long-term thinking and longevity
• Strategies squirrels use to safeguard from future threats
• Why leaders should communicate like squirrels
• Why squirrels can’t vomit
• Plus, Natalie demonstrates the noise squirrels make
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Sources:
• How to stay perfect: the role of memory and behavioural traits in an experienced problem and a similar problem” details the study on how squirrels use problem-solving from past tasks for future, novel tasks: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s10071-017-1113-7
• A synthesis on research about chunking behavior in fox squirrels: https://news.berkeley.edu/2017/09/12/nut-chunking
• Squirrels use different types of vocalizations to send different types of messages: https://esajournals.onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/full/10.1002/ecs2.3572#:~:text=A%20wide%20variety%20of%20behaviors,%2C%20mating%2C%20and%20neonatal%20calls.
• Scatter hoarding and (wow, strategic!) fake burying: https://www.schlitzaudubon.org/2019/09/24/the-strategies-of-squirrels/#:~:text=Gray%20squirrels%20use%20scatter%20hoarding,involves%20keen%20observation%20and%20craftiness
• Mclendon, Russel. “Happy Squirrel Appreciation Day.” Treehugger, n.d., https://www.treehugger.com/happy-squirrel-appreciation-day-4868817.
• “Squirrel.” Encyclopaedia Britannica, Encyclopaedia Britannica, Inc., n.d., https://www.britannica.com/animal/squirrel.
• “Memory, Treasure, and Deceit: The Complicated Lives of Squirrels.” Animals Asia, n.d., https://www.animalsasia.org/us/media/news/news-archive/memory-treasure-and-deceit-the-complicated-lives-of-squirrels.html.
• Greb, Néstor. “How Do Squirrels Find Buried Nuts?” Live Science, Purch, 28 August 2018, https://www.livescience.com/64104-how-do-squirrels-find-buried-nuts.html.
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Where to find Kari Sulenes:
• Kari's company: https://joinpilea.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karisulenes
—
Where to find Natalie Rothfels:
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nrothfels
• Website: https://natalierothfels.com/
—
Production and distribution by: ⁠⁠https://www.supermix.io
...more
1h
October 19, 2023The magnetism of manatees: good branding and excellent delegation
In today’s episode of INSTINCT, we chill out for a moment to explore the peaceful and laid back vibes of the manatee. “Manatees and leadership?!” you might say. Well these marine mammals are surprisingly good at forming strategic alliances, delegating responsibilities, and knowing how to survive for multiple decades.
If you find yourself turned off by traditional business advice hyper-growth and maximizing returns, this episode is for you: the sea cow serves as a reminder that longevity, legacy, and long-term growth is a realistic path to both survival and success.
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In today’s episode, we discuss:
What makes manatees skillful delegators

Why personal brand actually makes a difference in leadership

How way manatees enable their surrounding ecosystem

What manatees and lifestyle business have in common

The importance of self-care for leaders
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Sources:
Save the Manatee Club

Clearwater Marine Aquarium Research Institute https://mission.cmaquarium.org/research-institute/manatee-research/

Meet “The Manatee Man” on Going Wild with Dr. Rae Wynn-Grant

How Florida manatees use warm water around power plants for winter refuges.

How the loss of seagrass is impacting manatee’s lives

As Manatees Linger, the Springs Are Strained

National Geographic: www.nationalgeographic.com/animals/mammals/facts/manatees?source=A-to-Z
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Where to find Kari Sulenes:
• Kari's company: https://joinpilea.com/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karisulenes
—
Where to find Natalie Rothfels:
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nrothfels
• Website: https://natalierothfels.com/
—
Production and distribution by: ⁠⁠https://www.supermix.io
...more
43min
October 12, 2023The hustle of hummingbirds: differentiate or die
Hummingbirds share more traits with startups, entrepreneurs, and business leaders than you might imagine. Despite being perceived as elegant and peaceful creatures, hummingbirds are relentless forces of nature that have evolved quickly to thrive in a constantly shifting environment.
These tiny but powerful birds move at astonishing speeds (in all directions) while also remaining the agility required to fiercely defend their territories. In other words, hummingbirds might just be the best icon for startups looking to stay relevant in a world of cutthroat competition.
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In today’s episode, we discuss:
What hummingbirds and startups (and Natalie?) have in common

How decision-making fatigue can lead to death in hummingbirds and businesses

Why long-term differentiation is critical for survival

When to compete, and when to collaborate

How hummingbirds develop productive relationships with their broad ecosystem
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Referenced:
Douglas Altshuler and Robert Dudley on the amazing hovering ability of hummingbirds, and how their flight patterns co-evolve with their foraging strategies: https://repository.si.edu/bitstream/handle/10088/1573/Altshuler_and_Dudley.pdf?sequence=1

If you want to be in absolute awe of hummingbird nest-building, here’s 4 minutes of beauty: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rKNfsIwUPnA

The New York Times on co-evolution, and the competitive nature of hummingbirds (and their impressively serrated beaks!) https://www.nytimes.com/2019/02/05/science/hummingbirds-science-take.html

On the co-evolution of beaks and flowers: https://askabiologist.asu.edu/hummingbird-evolution#:~:text=Different species of hummingbirds have,other animals from stealing it[.](https://askabiologist.asu.edu/hummingbird-evolution#:~:text=Different species of hummingbirds have,other animals from stealing it.)

How hummingbirds use spider silk to reinforce their nests, while still allowing them to stretch and grow: https://abcbirds.org/blog21/hummingbird-nests/

Hummingbird researcher Alejandro Rico-Guevara talks about the feeding, flying, and fighting tendencies of these tiny birds (and why we can’t put trackers on them!)

Stuff You Should Know on hummingbirds as the only vertebrate who can hover and flying backward and forward
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Where to find Kari Sulenes:
Kari's company: https://joinpilea.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/karisulenes
—
Where to find Natalie Rothfels:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nrothfels

Website: https://natalierothfels.com/
—
Production and distribution by: ⁠https://www.supermix.io
...more
48min
October 05, 2023The wisdom of wolves: fluid leadership and pack mentality
In the first episode of INSTINCT, we dive into the world of Wolves to uncover lessons on leadership. Despite the misguided reputation of the ‘lone wolf’, wolves are practitioners of fluid leadership, knowing when to step forward and step back into different strengths based on the needs of the pack. These animals exemplify teamwork, adaptability, and sensitivity to each other’s needs, and their dynamic leadership model offers insights into how to build an effective and empathetic team.

In today’s episode, we discuss:
The ‘lone wolf’ myth

Rotating leadership to meet the needs of the pack

What it really means to be an ‘alpha’ (and ‘beta’ and ‘omega’)

Why sensitivity and communication are crucial to high-functioning teams

Packs that play together, stay together

Why pack mentality is an alternative to strict hierarchy

Referenced:
Division of labor amongst conspecific wolf packs. Cassidy, K. A. D. R. MacNulty, D. R. Stahler, L. D. Mech, D. W. Smith. 2017. Sexually dimorphic aggression indicates male gray wolves specialize in pack defense against conspecific groups. Behavioural Processes 136:64-72.

Gese, Eric M., et al. “The Ecology and Behavior of Coyotes (Canis latrans).” National Center for Biotechnology Information, 2019, https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6912837/.

Jane Packard on different hierarchical structures of wolf packs https://www.researchgate.net/publication/241277382_Wolf_behavior_reproductive_social_and_intelligent

Lupinology with Dr. Bridgett vonHoldt (Ologies podcast) (transcript))

Mech, L. David, “Alpha status, dominance, and division of labor in wolf packs” (1999). USGS Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center. 353. ⁠⁠https://digitalcommons.unl.edu/usgsnpwrc/353⁠⁠

Mech, L. David, “Leadership in Wolf, Canis lupus, Packs” (2000). USGS Northern Prairie Wildlife Research Center. 384. ⁠⁠http://digitalcommons.unl.edu/usgsnpwrc/384⁠⁠
Mikkelson, David. “Wolf Pack Photo.” Snopes, 19 May 2007, https://www.snopes.com/fact-check/wolf-pack-photo/.

O’Gara, Megan K., et al. “Debunking Myths: A New Look at Wolves and Their Role in the Ecosystem.” University of Minnesota Libraries, 2020, https://conservancy.umn.edu/bitstream/handle/11299/228066/OGara_Debunking Myths.pdf?sequence=1&isAllowed=y.

“Pack Structure.” Wolf Haven International, https://wolfhaven.org/conservation/wolves/pack-structure/.

Smith, Andrew. “Wolf Pack Leadership Explained with Examples.” Project Practical, https://www.projectpractical.com/wolf-pack-leadership-explained-with-examples/.

The effect of the reintroduction of wolves to Yellowstone: https://www.yellowstonepark.com/things-to-do/wildlife/wolf-reintroduction-changes-ecosystem/

Trophic Cascade: How wolves keep ecosystems in check: https://www.discovermagazine.com/planet-earth/wolves-keep-the-u-s-ecosystem-in-check

Turner, Lolly Daskal. “Wolf Pack Leadership: Insights for Effectively Leading a Team.” Leadership Depot, https://leadershipdepot.com/wolf-pack-leadership-insights-for-effectively-leading-a-team/.

“What Role Would You Have in a Wolf Pack?” GoToQuiz, https://www.gotoquiz.com/results/what_role_would_you_have_in_a_wolf_pack.

Where to find Kari Sulenes:
Kari's company: https://joinpilea.com/

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

Where to find Natalie Rothfels:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nrothfels

Website: https://natalierothfels.com/

Production and distribution by: https://www.supermix.io
...more
48min

FAQs about INSTINCT:

How many episodes does INSTINCT have?

The podcast currently has 8 episodes available.