In this episode of The Experimental Leader podcast, hosts Melanie Parrish and Mel Rutherford speak with Col. Bree Fram, one of the highest-ranking out transgender officers in the U.S. Space Force. Together, they explore the complexities of leading with authenticity, the unique strengths queer leaders bring to their work, and the emotional toll of being visible in challenging political times.

From the superpowers of queer leadership to navigating misgendering in professional spaces, this conversation offers an unfiltered look at identity, advocacy, and the courage it takes to keep leading when the stakes are high.

In this episode of The Experimental Leader Podcast, hosts Melanie Parish and Mel Rutherford are joined by executive coach and ADHD expert Frankie Berkoben to explore how executive functioning and systems thinking can elevate leadership performance.

Frankie shares her unique approach to coaching high-performing leaders in tech—drawing from design thinking, behavioral psychology, and neurodiversity-informed practices. Together, they unpack the importance of managing cognitive load, the power of time-blocking, and why trusting your own intuition is essential for sustainable success.

This episode also explores practical leadership lessons around inclusive hiring, the value of diverse personality traits in the workplace, and conflict navigation strategies for discerning leaders.

Whether you're a seasoned executive or an emerging leader, this conversation offers valuable insights to help you lead with clarity, intention, and impact, without relying on grit alone.

In this Pride Month episode of The Experimental Leader Podcast, hosts Mel Rutherford and Melanie Parish are joined by Dr. Liz Cavallaro, executive coach and author of Forging Queer Leaders.

Together, they explore how LGBTQ+ leaders leverage resilience, authenticity, and inclusivity to drive impactful leadership.

Packed with actionable insights on allyship, vulnerability, and embracing diverse perspectives, this episode is a powerful resource for leaders and allies alike.

Celebrate International Coaching Week 2025 with this insightful episode exploring coaching’s evolving role in leadership. From AI advancements to maintaining a pure coaching mindset, this conversation offers practical tips, powerful questions, and valuable insights into how coaching fosters transformation, innovation, and shared leadership. Whether you're a coach, leader, or lifelong learner, this episode delivers inspiration and actionable wisdom.

Celebrate a remarkable milestone with The Experimental Leader Podcast as we mark five years of exploring leadership through innovation, curiosity, and authenticity. In this special anniversary episode, podcast founder Melanie Parish reflects on the journey that started during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Melanie shares candid insights into the challenges of hosting authentic conversations, the importance of curiosity and presence, and her commitment to providing value to listeners. With over 30,000 downloads—a number that resonates deeply with her—she discusses the unexpected joys of creating a platform for thought-provoking discussions and leadership experimentation.

Looking to the future, Melanie envisions continuing the podcast with the same passion that launched it, embracing its emergent nature and the spontaneous, real moments that make it unique.

Whether you’ve been with us from the beginning or are discovering us for the first time, this episode is a heartfelt celebration of five years of leadership experimentation.

Tune in to join the celebration and keep experimenting!

This episode of The Experimental Leader explores leadership challenges, the power of experimentation, and ethical influence.

Discover principles like bravery, reciprocity, and consistency, along with actionable insights to foster purpose-driven leadership and a values-aligned culture.

This episode explores the power of connection in leadership, emphasizing the importance of civility, respect, and understanding impact. Through real-life stories and practical strategies, it highlights how a coaching approach can simplify leadership by focusing on outcomes and relationships rather than conflict details.

Discover how fostering curiosity, navigating workplace dynamics, and experimenting with personal growth can transform leadership at every level.

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In this episode of The Experimental Leader, we explore how leaders can balance empathy and accountability while supporting mental wellness in the workplace.

We discuss practical strategies for creating a compassionate and resilient environment for teams, navigating mental health challenges, and leading with authenticity.

Packed with actionable takeaways, this episode offers valuable insights for any leader looking to foster a healthier, more supportive workplace while maintaining strong leadership.

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Join The Experimental Leader community today:

• melanieparish.com
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In this episode of The Experimental Leader, we explore how self-awareness, compassion, and effective communication can transform workplaces into cultures of belonging.

Discover practical strategies to foster deeper connections, nurture work relationships, and create environments where people thrive.

Learn how intentional leadership can make belonging a cornerstone of your team’s success.

Julianna Newland joins The Experimental Leader Podcast to share insights on navigating leadership, breaking barriers, and advancing careers. Learn about the "sticky floor," the "glass cliff," and how to lead with creativity and confidence.

Tune in for actionable advice and inspiration!

Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!

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Join The Experimental Leader community today:

• melanieparish.com
• YouTube