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Leading Change
By Ema RoloffBusiness
Leading Change episodes
- AI-First Is Not a Strategy: Duolingo’s Mistake ExplainedWant to know what declaring you are AI-First will get you? Canceled and quick.In this solo episode of Leading Change, Ema Roloff breaks down Duolingo’s major misstep after a leaked internal memo revealed their “AI-First” strategy.Thousands of users canceled subscriptions. Critics flooded the comments. Why? Because People-first > AI-first, especially when the message is delivered without clarity, empathy, or vision.📉 In this breakdown, you’ll learn:✅ What Duolingo got wrong in their AI-first messaging✅ How it triggered backlash from both users and employees✅ Why vision statements fail without clarity, transparency, and empathy✅ How to actually lead digital transformation using the 4P Framework (Purpose, People, Process, Participation)Whether you’re a CEO, team lead, or tech enthusiast, this episode is your go-to guide for navigating the intersection of leadership, AI, and change management, without alienating your people.17 min
- What Improv Can Teach Us About Leading Through Uncertainty with Ian McCain
Ema is joined by Ian McCain, a digital transformation expert and seasoned improviser, to explore how the mindset of improv can unlock trust, momentum, and innovation during change initiatives. Whether you're leading a tech rollout or managing team dynamics, this episode offers powerful, practical tools to help you navigate the unknown with confidence.
17 min - How to Lead a People-First Digital Transformation Without Burning Out with Michelle RaueIn this special Live from New York edition of Leading Change with Ema Roloff - Ema sits down with Michelle Ralph, EVP, Chief Claim and Transformation Officer at Preferred Mutual, to talk about what it really takes to lead a successful digital transformation—starting with your people.11 min
- How Defense Teams Can Break the Cycle of Nuclear Verdicts with Ashley Fetyko
Ema sits down with Ashley Fetko, Partner and Head of Growth & Client Engagement at Tyson & Mendes, to explore the defense strategies that actually stop nuclear verdicts. Ashley dives into the power of storytelling, the need for collaboration, and why being a good human is more than just a motto—it's the foundation of winning in the courtroom.
18 min - The FBI’s Secret to Building Trust: What Leaders Can Learn with Robin Dreeke
Ema is joined by Robin Dreeke, founder of People Formula, former FBI Special Agent, and behavioral expert, for a powerful conversation on what it truly takes to build trust as a leader. Drawing from his experience recruiting spies and leading counterintelligence efforts, Robin shares powerful lessons on vulnerability, active communication, and shifting your focus from self to others.
16 min - Why Your Team is Holding Back in Meetings (And How to Fix It) with Minette Norman
Ema is joined by Minette Norman, an expert in inclusive leadership and psychological safety. Together, they explore how to recognize and fix the “meeting after the meeting” culture—those side conversations that happen when teams don’t feel safe speaking up.
23 min - Why Empathy is a Leadership Superpower with Maria Ross
Ema is joined by Maria Ross, an author, speaker, and empathy advocate, to discuss why empathy isn’t just about being nice—it’s a strategic advantage. They dive into the myths of empathy in leadership, how it drives high-performance teams, and why it’s essential for building a strong workplace culture.
25 min - Leading with Intention: Overcoming Fear and Embracing Authenticity with Jon Giganti
Ema sits down Jon Giganti as he shares his journey from corporate sales to leadership coaching and speaking. He opens up about overcoming self-doubt, managing anxiety, and embracing vulnerability in leadership. Discover how shifting your mindset from “being good” to “being helpful” can transform the way you lead and connect with others.
19 min - The Reality of Agile: How to Make It Work for Your Organization with Bob Pick
Ema sits down with Bob Pick, CIO at Tokio Marine North America, to share insights on implementing practical Agile in enterprise environments. From managing unrealistic expectations to driving culture change, Bob breaks down what works, what doesn’t, and how companies can make Agile truly effective.
21 min - Rethinking Data in Insurance: A New Approach to Innovation with Luke Fraser
Ema sits down with Luke Frazier, CEO of Stepwise Innovation, to discuss why relying on the same data sources leads to stagnation—and how companies can break the cycle by creating unique datasets and looking outside the industry for inspiration
13 min
About Leading Change
From the publisher's feed
Welcome to Leading Change, where we dive into the real conversations shaping the future of work. Hosted by Ema Roloff, this series brings together business leaders, change-makers, and innovators to explore the intersection of technology, change management, and leadership in today’s evolving workplace.
Each episode is packed with actionable insights, candid stories, and fresh perspectives on navigating transformation—whether it’s leveraging emerging tech, leading through disruption, or building resilient teams.
If you’re passionate about creating meaningful change and thriving in the digital era, this is the podcast for you. Let’s redefine what it means to lead in a world where change is the only constant.