Dr. Katharine Schmidt - Secrets of Leadership - How one woman went from a commune childhood to coaching top CEOs

In this episode of Better Together, we sit down with Dr. Katharine Schmidt — one of America’s top executive and strategic coaches, working with CEOs and senior leaders across business, nonprofit, and civic sectors.

Dr. Schmidt shares a remarkable personal journey: growing up in a commune, navigating a radically different path into the business and leadership world, and eventually coaching some of the nation’s top CEOs. She also opens up about her beautiful marriage to Arne Arens (former CEO of The North Face and Boardriders), the challenges and hopes within their family story, and how hope was eventually answered.

Through her story and work, we draw out transferable principles for unity and collaboration in any context — business, church, nonprofit, community, family, or relationships.

You’ll hear Dr. Schmidt unpack:

• ​ How curiosity and respect across difference unlock trust and unity
• ​ What great leaders do to collaborate without fear of losing control
• ​ How to lead people you disagree with without dividing
• ​ Practical ways to create environments where people feel safe, seen, and empowered

If you want to grow in leadership and learn how to build unity that actually transforms your context — this conversation is for you.