In this episode of Spirituality in Leadership, Andrew Cohn sits down with world-renowned horseman Warwick Schiller for a deeply personal and profound conversation on transformation, emotional intelligence, and the unexpected teachers in life: horses. 

Warwick opens up about his journey from high-level competition and the pursuit of external validation to a more grounded, spiritually attuned approach to life and horsemanship. What started as trying to “fix” a talented but quirky horse became a mirror that revealed suppressed emotions, judgmental thinking, and the need for deeper connection with self and others. That turning point led him to therapy, self-inquiry, and eventually, the work of Brené Brown, whose insights on vulnerability and emotional suppression hit him like a lightning bolt.

Warwick shares how therapy, vulnerability, and learning to truly “see” rather than judge, whether a horse or a human reshaped not only how he trains, but how he lives. He explores how presence, empathy, and self-awareness create real leadership, both in and out of the arena. 

If you’ve ever felt that personal growth could come from the most unlikely of places, this episode is for you.

Key Takeaways

• Horses Mirror Our Inner State: Often, the behavior we’re trying to “fix” in others, horse or human, reflects unresolved energy within ourselves.

• Presence Over Patience: True leadership comes from being deeply present, not just waiting for a desired outcome.

• Judgment Undermines Connection: Becoming aware of judgmental thoughts, especially self-judgment, creates space for compassion, clarity, and healing.

• You Can’t Lead What You Haven’t Met in Yourself: Personal growth and leadership are intimately tied; as we heal ourselves, we lead better.

• Functional Doesn’t Mean Whole: Like people, some horses appear to perform well but are emotionally shut down. Healing begins with seeing.

• The Universe Responds to Purity of Intention: True service, offered without expectation, opens unexpected doors.

In This Episode:

• [00:00] Introduction and personal realization
• [00:16] The transformative power of horses
• [01:00] Introduction to Warwick Schiller
• [02:38] Warwick Schiller's journey and insights
• [04:49] The shift from competition to personal growth
• [08:06] Therapy and emotional awareness
• [10:15] Impact of therapy on horse training
• [23:38] Judgmental thoughts and personal growth
• [35:06] The magic of giving without expectation
• [39:58] Exploring sensitivity: Horses vs. humans
• [42:46] Understanding the root cause: The five whys
• [45:07] Patience vs. presence: Lessons from horses
• [51:37] Seeing without judgment: A new perspective
• [01:00:52] The power of purpose: A personal journey
• [01:10:50] Conclusion: Applying wisdom beyond horses
  

Resources and Links

Spirituality in Leadership Podcast

• https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/spirituality-in-leadership/id1713365406




Warwick Schiller

• Website: https://go.warwickschiller.com/online-horse-trainer

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/warwick-schiller-23b76968

• Facebook Fanpage: https://www.facebook.com/Warwickschillerfanpage/

• Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/WarwickSchillerPerformanceHorsemanship/

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/warwickschiller




Andrew Cohn

• Website: https://www.spiritualityinleadership.com/

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewcohnusa/




Music: 

• Kodiak: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4rURKtnJr3jeHvZ0IVRQCe

In this powerful episode, host Andrew Cohn speaks with Dr. Karen Wilson-Starks, clinical psychologist, executive coach, and host of The Voice of Leadership podcast. With decades of experience, including as an Army psychologist and senior faculty at the Center for Creative Leadership, Dr. Karen shares how deep faith and a spirit of service have shaped her approach to leadership.

Karen opens up about her early struggles to integrate spirituality with psychology and how she became a pioneering voice encouraging others to bring their whole selves, including their spiritual dimension, into the workplace. She reflects on the meaning of eldership as witnessing and blessing, and how modeling peace and presence can be more powerful than words.

Together, Andrew and Karen explore how spiritual grounding, especially her Christian faith, can support leaders through uncertainty, foster inclusive workplaces, and serve as an anchor in turbulent times. Whether it’s leading through riots, coaching executives one-on-one, or mentoring the next generation, Karen’s presence and perspective offer wisdom for leaders of all kinds.

Key Takeaways

• Leadership begins with self-leadership. As Karen says, “You are the instrument of your leadership” — and that instrument needs regular tuning.

• Spirituality adds depth to leadership. Leaders of faith can draw from inner peace, presence, and purpose — even in secular settings.

• Eldership means modeling, mentoring, and blessing. Being an elder is about showing what’s possible and supporting others on their path.

• Peace is contagious. A grounded leader sets the emotional tone for an entire organization.

• Respectful inclusion is essential. Faith-based leadership can be offered with openness and humility, never imposition.

• We influence more than we know. Whether through family, clients, or peers, our presence creates ripples beyond our awareness.

In This Episode:

• [00:00] Introduction to eldership and wisdom

• [01:06] Welcome to the podcast

• [01:41] Introducing Dr. Karen Wilson-Starks

• [05:13] Dr. Karen's journey in psychology and spirituality

• [06:14] Challenges in combining psychology and spirituality

• [09:55] The role of elders in different cultures

• [12:59] The importance of role models

• [17:20] Spirituality in leadership

• [18:34] Integrating faith in professional settings

• [23:57] Leveraging faith to lead with peace

• [25:44] The CEO's influence on organizational peace

• [26:14] Finding personal peace in leadership

• [27:13] Jesus as a model for peaceful leadership

• [28:03] Modeling peace in the workplace

• [29:26] The impact of faith on leadership

• [33:08] Changes in workplace spirituality

• [39:30] Balancing faith and inclusivity in leadership

• [40:49] Practical examples of faith in leadership

• [44:42] Conclusion and resources

Resources and Links

Spirituality in Leadership Podcast

• https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/spirituality-in-leadership/id1713365406

Dr. Karen Wilson-Starks

• Podcast: The Voice of Leadership

• Website: https://transleadership.com/

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCbX0XrG1TknGthurUMnFXdA

• Email: [email protected]

• Book: Lead Yourself First: The Senior Leader’s Guide to Engaging Your People for Greater Performance and Impact

Andrew Cohn

• Website: https://www.spiritualityinleadership.com/

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewcohnusa/

Music: 
Kodiak: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4rURKtnJr3jeHvZ0IVRQCe

In this episode of the Spirituality in Leadership podcast, host Andrew Cohn sits down with Rebecca Wilson, executive coach, mindfulness teacher, and founder of Arborvida, an organization dedicated to helping leaders cultivate self-awareness, purpose, and conscious leadership from the inside out.

Together, they explore what happens when leaders slow down, cut through the noise, and reconnect with their deeper sense of meaning. Andrew and Rebecca dive into why leadership is ultimately an inner journey and how greater self-awareness, intention, and presence can transform the way we lead, make decisions, and show up for others.

They also unpack real challenges leaders face, like burnout, overwhelm, and the constant pressure to “do more,” while offering practical tools to lead with clarity, impact, and fulfillment, whether it’s honoring silence in meetings, setting clear intentions, or creating space for reflection.

Rebecca also shares details about her latest initiative, The Conscious Leaders Collective – a peer-driven community supporting mindful, purpose-driven leaders navigating today’s fast-paced, high-pressure environments.

If you’re a leader looking to expand your impact, avoid burnout, and lead with more presence, this episode offers valuable insights and inspiration for the journey.

Key Takeaways

• Leadership is an inside job. True leadership starts with self-awareness, reflection, and intentional action.

• Quiet the noise to hear your inner compass. Slowing down reveals the subtle insights that guide purpose-driven leadership.

• Small practices create big shifts. Moments of silence, pausing to set intentions, and simple reflective questions help leaders reconnect with what matters.

• Leaders shape culture through energy, not just words. How you show up impacts your team as much as what you say or do.

• Spirituality in leadership is human, not hierarchical. It’s about connection, fulfillment, and meaning, not religion or exclusion.

• Community matters. Peer-to-peer spaces for reflection help leaders stay anchored in their values and purpose.

  
  

  In This Episode:

  • [00:00] Introduction to the invitational approach

  • [00:39] Value of language in spiritual development

  • [01:19] Podcast introduction and guest background

  • [03:00] Rebecca’s journey into spirituality and leadership

  • [03:42] Challenges of spiritual language in the workplace

  • [06:05] Rebecca’s coaching approach and client resonance

  • [08:14] Practicality and inclusivity in coaching

  • [09:27] Examples of coaching work and client challenges

  • [12:34] Case study: burnout and reconnection

  • [17:40] Depth and root causes in coaching

  • [18:13] Encouraging leaders to foster deeper conversations

  • [19:14] Embodiment and leading by example

  • [20:37] Simple practices for leaders: silence and questions

  • [23:30] Intention setting in leadership

  • [27:12] Self-awareness and flexibility in leadership

  • [30:12] Rebecca’s coaching model and peer groups

  • [33:18] Sustaining growth through community

  • [35:00] Finding Rebecca and final reflections

  • [36:40] Closing remarks and podcast outro

    
    

    
    

    Resources and Links

    
    

    Spirituality in Leadership Podcast

    • https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/spirituality-in-leadership/id1713365406

    
    

    Rebecca Wilson

    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccawilsoncoaching

    • Arborvida : https://www.arborvida.com/

    • The Conscious Leaders Collective: https://www.arborvida.com/the-collective

    
    

    Andrew Cohn

    • Website: https://www.spiritualityinleadership.com/

    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewcohnusa/

    Music: 

    • Kodiak: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4rURKtnJr3jeHvZ0IVRQCe

    
    

In this eye-opening episode of the Spirituality in Leadership podcast, host Andrew Cohn is joined by Bond Snodgrass—banker, sustainability entrepreneur, and creator of Awakened Economics—for a rich conversation about reimagining how we lead, measure success, and shape the systems we live in.

Bond shares his personal journey from the high-stakes world of global finance to a deeper spiritual awakening sparked by a health crisis. That turning point led him to question the economic assumptions we take for granted—especially the idea that growth always equals progress. Together, Bond and Andrew explore how leaders can bring more consciousness into business—without sacrificing performance.

From ESG investing and stakeholder capitalism to redefining what we even mean by “value,” this episode offers bold ideas and grounded insights for leaders who want to build organizations that serve both people and the planet. It’s part vision, part toolkit—and all heart.

Ready to rethink what leadership and economics can be? Hit play and join the conversation.

And don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode that challenges, inspires, and uplifts your leadership journey. 

Key Takeaways

• Spirituality in business is possible: High-consciousness leadership doesn’t negate profitability—it deepens responsibility.

• Stakeholder capitalism expands the definition of who matters in business beyond shareholders to include employees, communities, and the planet.

• Sustainability is multidimensional: It encompasses economic viability, social responsibility, and environmental stewardship.

• Young professionals care: Gen Z and Millennials are driving demand for purpose-driven companies and ESG transparency.

• Economics can evolve: Bond’s “awakened definition” of economics centers on interdependence, service, and sustainable well-being—replacing outdated models of infinite self-interest.

• Progress, not perfection: Even small commitments to sustainability or spiritual values by leaders can make meaningful shifts.

  
  

  In This Episode:

  • [00:00:01] Bond’s spiritual awakening and health crisis

  • [00:00:52] Introduction to the podcast and guest

  • [00:03:57] Bond’s career journey and spirituality

  • [00:07:04] The genesis of awakened economics

  • [00:08:24] High consciousness in business

  • [00:09:31] Defining spirituality and connection

  • [00:10:39] Applying spirituality to business and sustainability

  • [00:11:38] Community and the conscious business movement

  • [00:13:01] Shareholder vs. stakeholder capitalism

  • [00:14:22] Three pillars of sustainability

  • [00:16:18] Defining sustainability and its origins

  • [00:17:52] Theoretical vs. practical impact for leaders

  • [00:19:08] Progress and CEO commitment

  • [00:20:55] ESG reporting and market demand

  • [00:23:10] Growth and pushback in ESG investing

  • [00:25:04] Complexity and lack of standards in sustainability

  • [00:26:53] Challenges for corporations in sustainability

  • [00:27:56] Responding to business leader skepticism

  • [00:30:13] Benefits of sustainability for business

  • [00:32:42] Sustainable finance and green bonds

  • [00:32:56] Regional differences in sustainability practices

  • [00:35:26] Trends and the future of sustainability

  • [00:37:09] Challenges in ESG implementation

  • [00:38:15] Political pushback and communication issues

  • [00:39:30] Economic benefits of sustainability initiatives

  • [00:41:26] Introduction to awakened economics

  • [00:41:33] Critique of neoclassical economics

  • [00:44:06] Proposing a conscious economic model

  • [00:46:25] Awakened definition of economics

  • [00:49:41] Resources and closing

  
  Resources and Links

  Spirituality in Leadership Podcast

  • https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/spirituality-in-leadership/id1713365406

  
  

  Bond Snodgrass

  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bond-snodgrass-99274932/en

  • Awakened Economics: https://awakenedeconomics.substack.com/

  
  

  Andrew Cohn

  • Website: https://www.spiritualityinleadership.com/

  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewcohnusa/

  
  

  Music: 

  • Kodiak: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4rURKtnJr3jeHvZ0IVRQCe

  
  

What does it mean to lead with both purpose and integrity in a world that often separates the spiritual from the professional?

In this thought-provoking episode of the Spirituality in Leadership podcast, host Andrew Cohn sits down with John Mitchell, a leadership development consultant, coach, and fellow "recovering lawyer," to explore the intersection of spirituality, faith, and effective leadership. John shares his unique journey—from growing up in a military family with broad exposure to diverse faiths, to his current work helping leaders align their actions with their deepest values.  

The conversation explores the challenges of congruence—ensuring one’s behavior aligns with one's stated beliefs—and the importance of interconnectedness as a guiding principle in leadership. John offers practical insights for leaders across sectors, from corporate executives to faith leaders, on how to navigate hypocrisy, foster inclusivity, and make decisions rooted in integrity.  

Whether you're a corporate executive, faith leader, or purpose-driven professional, this episode offers powerful, practical wisdom on navigating ethical dilemmas, embracing inclusivity, and making value-aligned decisions in complex environments. Listen now to discover how spirituality can be a strength—not a side note—in leadership. 

Key Takeaways

• Faith and spirituality aren’t the same—but often overlap.

• Congruence matters. Leadership credibility stems from living your values consistently, not just preaching them.

• Leaders need mirrors. Coaches can help by reflecting back a leader’s own values—especially during moments of self-doubt or hubris.

• The best leaders check themselves. High-integrity leaders actively ask, “Are my actions aligned with my beliefs?”

• Inclusiveness grows from spiritual awareness. A belief in interconnectedness leads to more inclusive and effective leadership.

• Discernment is not judgment. Leaders must evaluate situations with clarity without falling into prejudice or rigidity.

  
  

  In This Episode:

  • [00:00] Introduction: Faith vs. spirituality

  • [03:00] John’s childhood, military upbringing, and multifaith exposure

  • [06:00] Spirituality through the lens of connection and nature

  • [10:00] Diversity, integration, and spiritual evolution

  • [13:00] Coaching faith leaders and guiding them through their own frameworks

  • [18:00] The danger of ego and the pedestal problem

  • [24:00] Leading with integrity—lessons from a transportation executive

  • [30:00] Self-checks and internal congruence as a leadership discipline

  • [36:00] Discernment vs. judgment in decision-making

  • [39:00] Leadership in law firms and the challenge of tough decisions

  • [41:00] Closing reflections and where to find John online

    
    

    Resources and Links

    Spirituality in Leadership Podcast

    • https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/spirituality-in-leadership/id1713365406

    John Mitchell

    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thepurplecoach

    Andrew Cohn

    • Website: https://www.spiritualityinleadership.com/

    • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewcohnusa/

    Music: 

    • Kodiak: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4rURKtnJr3jeHvZ0IVRQCe

    
    

In this episode of Spirituality in Leadership, host Andrew Cohn sits down with Allison Schultz, coach, writer, and co-founder of Reboot—to explore a deeper, more human-centered approach to leadership.

At Reboot, coaching goes beyond developing managerial skills. It’s about transformation—helping leaders access their full humanity through radical self-inquiry, embodied presence, and spiritual integration.

Drawing from her rich background, including a master’s in Religious Studies, a lifelong bond with horses, and her new book The Art of Being Human at Work,  Ali shares candid stories and powerful insights. She speaks openly about how childhood emotional invisibility and early discomfort with corporate norms shaped her path. Her connection with horses, which she describes as a sacred devotional practice, has deeply informed her understanding of relational intelligence and inner work.

Together, Andrew and Ali explore how spirituality, shadow work, and embodiment can shift the very foundation of how we lead and show up in the workplace.

Key Takeaways

• The connection between early family dynamics and later leadership patterns

• Why Religious Studies offers a surprisingly practical lens for coaching

• How horses taught Ali the power of presence, embodiment, and devotion

• The sacred importance of shadow work in leadership development

• Why “making peace with your shadows” is foundational to authentic leadership

• How The Art of Being Human at Work bridges spiritual depth with professional growth

• The impact of edited spiritual traditions—and what was left out

• How journaling and reflection support sustained leadership growth

• Leadership as a relational and inner-development practice—not performance

In This Episode:

• [00:00] Opening reflections on coaching and religious studies

• [01:05] Meet Ali Schultz: co-founder of Reboot and horsewoman-philosopher

• [03:48] Her early tension with work and the seeds of integration

• [07:53] The practicality of a Religious Studies degree for coaching

• [11:20] Horses and embodiment: a devotional relationship

• [15:25] Growing up emotionally unseen—and being witnessed by animals

• [18:45] Do coaches talk enough about religion and meaning?

• [22:23] Turning blog essays into a leadership wisdom book

• [24:37] Parker Palmer quote + spiritual wisdom in the workplace

• [26:52] How to use the book + journaling for integration

• [28:44] Reboot's approach to coaching and shadow work

• [33:55] The sacred act of holding space as a coach

• [36:59] Where to learn more: Reboot.io and beyond 

Resources and Links

Spirituality in Leadership Podcast

• https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/spirituality-in-leadership/id1713365406

Allison Schultz

• Website:

             https://www.reboot.io/

• Book: 

            The Art of Being Human at Work

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alschultz

Andrew Cohn

• Website: https://www.spiritualityinleadership.com/

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewcohnusa/

Music: 
Kodiak: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4rURKtnJr3jeHvZ0IVRQCe

In this thought-provoking episode of the Spirituality in Leadership podcast, Andrew Cohn is joined by Dr. Erika Kleestorfer, a seasoned leadership consultant and executive coach. With over two decades of experience in corporate leadership development, Dr. Kleestorfer offers invaluable insights into the intersection of spirituality and leadership. She shares her unique perspective on how understanding one’s essence, core values, and inner light can help leaders navigate challenges and inspire teams to thrive.

Drawing on her extensive experience working with global organizations including IBM, Dr. Kleestorfer explains how spirituality in leadership is not just a concept, but a practice that enhances business success, team cohesion, and individual fulfillment. From creating a safe space for emotional growth to utilizing frameworks like the PERMA model, this episode provides both spiritual wisdom and practical tools for leaders at all levels.

Key Takeaways

• 
  
• How understanding your true essence as a leader can transform your team and organization
• 
  
• The importance of asking deep, reflective questions to uncover core values and beliefs
• 
  
• How to cultivate trust and emotional safety within teams to foster open and honest conversations
• 
  
• The connection between root cause analysis and spiritual leadership in navigating complex challenges
• 
  
• Why the PERMA model is essential in fostering positive workplace climates and employee well-being
• 
  
• The impact of generational shifts on leadership and how younger employees are changing the workplace dynamics
• Practical tools for integrating spirituality and leadership to achieve both personal and organizational growth
  

In This Episode:

• [00:00] Introduction to Dr. Erika Kleestorfer and her background

• [03:07] The essence of spirituality in leadership

• [05:23] Key questions for leaders to ask themselves and their teams

• [07:46] The connection between emotional intelligence and effective leadership

• [10:25] How leaders can foster a culture of openness and trust

• [14:17] The PERMA model and its application in leadership

• [18:45] Adapting to the changing workforce and generational shifts in leadership

• [23:10] Practical steps for integrating spirituality into corporate leadership

• [28:05] Closing thoughts on leadership and spiritual growth

  
  

  
  

  Resources and Links

  Spirituality in Leadership Podcast

  • https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/spirituality-in-leadership/id1713365406

  
  

  Dr. Erika Kleestorfer

  • Website: www.kleestorfer.com

  • Podcast: Alles Liebe, Erika – Podcast on Spotify

  • Workshop: Transformational Leadership Journey

  • Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/erikamariakleestorfer/

  
  

  Andrew Cohn

  • Website: https://www.spiritualityinleadership.com/

  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewcohnusa/

  
  

  Music: 

  • Kodiak: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4rURKtnJr3jeHvZ0IVRQCe

  
  

How can one’s personal experiences with life and meaning translate into corporate leadership and a legacy of meaning? In this powerful conversation on the Spirituality in Leadership podcast, Andrew Cohn sits down with Steve Hart, educator, leadership coach, musician, and former executive at the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia, to explore the deep connection between the human spirit, meaningful work, and adaptive leadership.

Steve opens up about a transformative near-death experience that reshaped his entire life, and how that moment of awakening fuels his mission to infuse workplaces with soul, trust, and purpose. Steve brings wisdom, warmth, and clarity from his early days as a special education teacher to leading large-scale cultural shifts in government and nonprofit organizations.

You’ll hear about the surprising lessons leadership can take from nature (particularly Zoysia grass!), how reflection becomes a gateway to growth, and why trust is the bedrock of real transformation. Whether you're leading a team or navigating your inner shift, this episode is a blueprint for blending practical leadership with deeper personal truth.

Key Takeaways

• Why leadership starts with trust, not tactics

• The “warrior and artist” polarity is one that every great leader must balance

• Steve’s near-death experience and how it sparked a lifelong transformation

• How to lead organizational culture shifts with empathy and vision

• What quantum physics and zoysia grass can teach us about change

• The role of reflection and safe spaces in leadership development

• How places like Cranaleith Spiritual Center (https://cranaleith.org) offer renewal for leaders and frontline workers alike

In This Episode:

• [00:00] Introduction and near-death experience

• [00:14] Leadership foundations in special education

• [00:34] Podcast introduction and guest overview

• [01:09] Steve Hart's leadership journey

• [03:20] Connecting spirituality and leadership

• [05:23] Special education insights and leadership

• [10:20] Transforming leadership at the Federal Reserve

• [20:21] Personal transformation and near-death experience

• [27:11] Spiritual experiences and family connections

• [27:49] Discovering Life After Life

• [28:14] Introduction to Cran Oleth

• [28:25] The history and mission of Cranaleith

• [30:20] Personal reflections and leadership at Cran Oleth

• [32:58] Connecting spirituality with corporate leadership

• [42:43] Adaptive leadership and organizational change

• [48:34] Final thoughts and resources

Resources and Links

Spirituality in Leadership Podcast

• https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/spirituality-in-leadership/id1713365406

Steve Hart

• Website: https://www.theprofessionaldevelopmentgroup.com/

• Cranaleith Spiritual Center: https://cranaleith.org/

Andrew Cohn

• Website: https://www.spiritualityinleadership.com/

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewcohnusa/

Music: 
Kodiak: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4rURKtnJr3jeHvZ0IVRQCe

In this episode of the Spirituality in Leadership podcast, host Andrew Cohn sits down with Gino Peremans, a men’s work expert and leadership coach from Belgium. Gino’s journey is both gripping and inspiring—from a challenging childhood to becoming a mentor for men seeking to break free from societal expectations. He shares how he went from feeling lost and disconnected to creating spaces where men can rediscover their true selves.

Gino dives deep into the importance of vulnerability, connection, and building healthy communities of men. He talks about the retreats he leads—transformative experiences where men step away from the pressures of performance and status to embrace their inner lives. But this isn’t just theory; Gino offers practical tools to bring this mindset into your personal and professional life. Whether you’re leading a team, a family, or just yourself, his insights are game-changing.

This conversation is for anyone who’s ever felt the weight of pretending to be someone they’re not. Gino’s message is clear: true leadership starts with authenticity. Tune in to discover how you can step into a new kind of strength—one rooted in vulnerability, connection, and your truest self.

Key Takeaways

• Exploration of men's work and healthy masculinity

• Challenges men face regarding vulnerability and societal expectations

• Importance of creating deeper connections and conversations among men

• Personal journey and experiences of the guest related to emotional expression

• Societal pressures on men to perform and provide

• The concept of brotherhood and support among men

• Impact of modern distractions, such as social media, on genuine connections

• Establishing safe spaces for men to share vulnerabilities

• The role of curiosity and reflection in personal growth

• The potential ripple effects of men's work on families and communities

In This Episode:

• [00:00] Introduction to addiction and external validation  

• [01:09] Meet Gino: background and professional journey  

• [08:41] Gino's personal journey and struggles  

• [14:21] The role of vulnerability and brotherhood in men's work  

• [17:32] Challenges of modern masculinity and distraction  

• [22:22] Challenges faced by executives and managers  

• [23:25] The concept of a healthy tribe  

• [24:28] Building a sense of community  

• [25:22] Encouraging vulnerability and personal sharing  

• [29:02] Introducing Gentle Giants

• [32:15] Practical tools for corporate settings  

• [35:32] Reconnecting with the body  

• [38:17] Conclusion and resources 

Resources and Links

Spirituality in Leadership Podcast

• https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/spirituality-in-leadership/id1713365406

Gino Peremans

• Website: https://www.ginoperemans.com/

• LinkedIn:https://be.linkedin.com/in/ginoperemans

Andrew Cohn

• Website: https://www.spiritualityinleadership.com/

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewcohnusa/

Music: 
Kodiak: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4rURKtnJr3jeHvZ0IVRQCe

In this episode of Spirituality in Leadership, host Andrew Cohn sits down with Judi Neal, a pioneer in workplace spirituality and the force behind the Tyson Center for Faith and Spirituality and Edgewalkers International. Judi opens up about her personal journey, including her time at Honeywell, where she took a stand as a whistleblower—an experience that reshaped her understanding of integrity, trust, and spiritual resilience.

Together, Andrew and Judi explore how spirituality can transform leadership and workplace culture, making organizations more compassionate, ethical, and inclusive. Drawing insights from her books Inspiring Workplace Spirituality, Edgewalkers, and Creating Enlightened Organizations, Judi shares practical ways to integrate faith and spirituality into daily work life—no matter your beliefs.

This conversation is for anyone looking to lead with greater purpose, foster a more inclusive workplace, or simply navigate their career with a deeper sense of meaning. 

Key Takeaways

• Integration of spirituality into leadership and business practices

• The concept of blessings in the workplace and recognizing inherent value

• Personal experiences and stories related to workplace spirituality

• The ethical dilemma faced by a whistleblower and its impact on personal values

• The importance of aligning personal values with professional responsibilities

• Fostering a culture of appreciation, trust, and community in organizations

• The transformative power of spirituality in creating ethical and compassionate work environments

• Impact of spirituality on leadership styles and organizational culture

• The concept of "edge walkers" as individuals bridging material and spiritual worlds

• Mindfulness and self-reflection as tools for effective leadership

• Addressing skepticism and resistance to spirituality in professional contexts

• Resources and frameworks for implementing spirituality in organizations

In This Episode:

• (00:00:01) Introduction to appreciative inquiry  

• (00:01:09) Introduction of Judi Neal  

• (00:03:28) Reading from Inspiring Workplace Spirituality

• (00:04:48) Moment of silence  

• (00:06:05) Concept of blessing  

• (00:07:26) Transforming judgment to blessing  

• (00:10:07) Impact of workplace negativity  

• (00:10:52) Appreciative inquiry practice  

• (00:11:00) Discussion on blessing and religion  

• (00:12:39) Cultural creative study insights  

• (00:14:45) Judi's journey into spirituality  

• (00:15:49) Whistleblower experience at Honeywell  

• (00:16:51) Moral dilemma in the workplace  

• (00:20:46) Spiritual awakening  

• (00:23:24) Consequences of whistleblowing  

• (00:24:33) Spiritual awakening and connection 

• (00:26:35) Legal action against Honeywell  

• (00:28:44) Teaching management and tokenism

• (00:31:10) Common themes among leaders  

• (00:33:23) Reception of spirituality in the workplace  

• (00:33:49) Defining religion, spirituality, and faith  

• (00:35:48) Building bridges between worldviews  

• (00:39:14) Authenticity and trust in organizations  

• (00:39:59) Creating space for conversations  

• (00:41:26) Practices for opening doors to meaning   

• (00:43:47) Inspirational reading assignments  

• (00:46:47) Eileen Fisher's personal growth initiative  

• (00:48:04) Spirituality as a dimension of diversity  

• (00:51:04) Offering options for spiritual practices  

• (00:52:04) Gateways to workplace spirituality    

• (00:57:00) Gratitude and invitation  

  
  

  Resources and Links

  Spirituality in Leadership Podcast

  • Spirituality in Leadership

  
  

  Judi Neal

  • LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/judi-neal-99a1027

  • Book:https://www.amazon.com/Inspiring-Workplace-Spirituality-Future-Work/dp/1837536155

  • Book: https://www.amazon.com/Creating-Enlightened-Organizations-Gateways-Spirit/dp/1137335157

  • Book: https://www.amazon.com/Edgewalkers-People-Organizations-Bridges-Ground/dp/0275989208

  
  

  Andrew Cohn

  • Website: https://www.spiritualityinleadership.com/

  • LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewcohnusa/

  Music: 

  • Kodiak: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4rURKtnJr3jeHvZ0IVRQCe