The Marcel Podcast

By Marcel SchwantesBusiness Management

The Marcel Podcast episodes

November 14, 2025How to See What’s Holding You Back as a Leader with Martin Dubin
Episode recap

In this episode, I sat down with Dr. Martin Dubin — a clinical psychologist turned entrepreneur and executive coach — to unpack the blind spots that quietly sabotage leaders. Marty’s journey from therapy rooms to boardrooms shaped his book Blindspotting, where he helps executives see what they can’t see about themselves. We dug into why even the smartest leaders miss their own patterns, how to build self-awareness without beating yourself up, and why humility and small shifts matter more than big transformations.

Key Insights:
Blind spots aren’t flaws — they’re unseen patterns. Marty explained how our minds naturally focus on familiar territory, leaving some behaviors invisible to us.
Six areas to watch: identity, motives, traits, emotions, intellect, and behavior — all interconnected layers that shape how leaders show up.
Awareness beats overhaul. Growth happens through small, intentional adjustments, not massive self-reinventions.
Humility is the gateway to insight. The best leaders don’t try to be perfect — they stay curious about what they might be missing.
Self-awareness drives effectiveness. Understanding your motives and emotional triggers helps you lead with more clarity, empathy, and confidence.
BIO:

Martin Dubin is a clinical psychologist, serial entrepreneur, business coach, and adviser to C-suite executives and Silicon Valley entrepreneurs. He founded several companies, including a multimillion-dollar health care company where he also served as CEO. A former coach at the Center for Creative Leadership and a partner at talent firm RHR International, he worked directly with hundreds of C-suite senior executives from Fortune 500 companies and with Silicon Valley venture capital firms and their portfolio companies.

Quotes:
“Self-awareness is the single most important tool of your leadership.”
“You are the tool of your leadership, so the better you know yourself, the better you lead.”
“Your greatest strength becomes a blind spot the moment you overdo it.”
“Stress narrows your motives, so you default to survival instead of wise leadership.”
“Real change in leaders comes from small tweaks, not dramatic transformation.”

Takeaways:
Name your core strengths, then ask what happens when you are too much of that strength to uncover likely blind spots.
Notice when your role has changed but your identity has not and ask if you are still leading like your old job.
Pay attention to emotional overreactions after meetings; they are clues to motives or values you may not fully understand.
Stop trying to be the smartest person in the room and start asking more questions to draw out the intelligence of your team.
Focus on small, intentional behavioral changes rather than chasing a complete personal transformation.

Timestamps:

[00:00] Marcel’s intro: why what used to work in leadership suddenly stops working
[02:40] Marty’s story from clinical psychologist to entrepreneur to executive coach
[07:20] The spark behind Blind Spotting and why entrepreneurs reveal raw blind spots
[09:06] Why is it so hard for leaders to see their own blind spots
[11:31] The six blind spot areas and the “target” model are explained
[13:15] Identity blind spots and the pain of transitioning into new roles
[16:12] Traits, emotions, and intellect as hard-to-change parts of our wiring
[20:37] Emotional blind spots, EQ, and using feelings strategically at work
[22:41] Different kinds of intellect and how over-reliance on smarts backfires
[27:49] Motives at the center: power, achievement, affiliation, and values
[32:30] How stress distorts motives and narrows our leadership choices
[33:16] A simple exercise to find blind spots by adding “too” to your strengths
[34:17] Why sustainable growth comes from small behavioral tweaks, not wholesale reinvention
[35:13] Speed round: what makes Marty smile, big life lessons, and hopes for the future
[37:45] Leading with love by accepting yourself and using what you have
[38:16] Final takeaway: start somewhere small and let self-awareness do its work

Conclusion:

This conversation reminds us that leadership is fundamentally an inside job. Blind spots are not signs of failure but evidence that we are human, shaped by patterns, histories, and motives we do not always see. By understanding identity shifts, naming our traits and emotional patterns, and getting honest about what truly drives us, we gain more choice in how we show up. Rather than chasing dramatic transformation, Marty urges leaders to embrace small, focused behavioral changes—asking more questions, listening longer, or dialing down an overused strength. Over time, those small tweaks compound into deeper authenticity, healthier relationships, and more effective, human-centered leadership.

Links/Resources:
Website: https://www.martindubin.com/
Blind Spotting assessment and resources: https://www.blindspotting.com/
Book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DRZFK8J6?tag=bk00010a-20&th=1&psc=1&geniuslink=true
42 min
November 08, 2025Discover How to Unlock a Brighter, Happier, Bolder You with Dr. Paul Zak
Today’s episode is made possible by TerraSlate. TerraSlate Waterproof Paper is waterproof, rip-proof, and recyclable — no more laminating sheets, and no more wasted paper. TerraSlate prints through any standard laser printer and can be written on with a regular ballpoint pen. Powered by 100% renewable energy and recently named a Denver Broncos Small Business Partner, TerraSlate combines durability with sustainability. From ocean dives to mountain summits, it’s trusted by the NFL, the U.S. military, and Michelin-starred restaurants to perform when nothing else does. If your work matters, make it last.
Visit TerraSlate.com and make your ideas indestructible.

Episode Recap:
In this Love in Action episode, Marcel sits down with neuroscientist and author Dr. Paul Zak to unpack what truly makes us happy—and how love, connection, and neuroscience intersect to create thriving workplaces and healthier lives. Drawing on research from The Little Book of Happiness and his company, Immersion Neuroscience, Zak reveals how happiness isn’t just a feeling—it’s a measurable state shaped by our relationships, daily choices, and leadership behaviors.

Bio:

Paul Zak is a distinguished university professor at Claremont Graduate University. His research has taken him from the Pentagon to Fortune 50 boardrooms to the rainforest of Papua New Guinea. He is ranked among the top 0.3 percent of most cited scientists, with over 200 published research articles. His lab and company, Immersion Neuroscience, help people live longer, happier, and healthier lives.

Quotes:
"Vulnerability is one of the best ways to build bonds with people, whether in your family, your circle of friends, or your professional team and organization. Vulnerability teaches them that you are approachable and that you need others to help you develop answers and embrace feedback."
"The more you go in an organization, the more people you lead, the more you become a role model. You're also visible as a role model to people you do not interact with daily, both inside and outside your organization."
"If the map differs from the terrain, go with the terrain. This means assessing the situation in real time, getting inputs from every team member on that special assignment, and making a new plan, which hopefully is a winning plan."
Takeaways:
·Reflect on Your Leadership Style: Take 10 minutes to write down how you respond to mistakes and feedback. Are you open to vulnerability, or do you default to defensiveness? Identify one behavior you can adjust to build trust with your team.
· Build Genuine Connections: Schedule one conversation this week with a team member to learn their personal or professional story. Ask questions that show you care about their perspective and challenges.
·Challenge Long-Held Beliefs: Identify one assumption you rely on when making decisions. Ask yourself, “What if this isn’t true?” and explore how adapting your approach could improve outcomes.
Practice “Fearless Learning”: Pick a recent setback and outline what went wrong without assigning blame. Write down one concrete action to improve your approach next time.
Create a Commitment Plan: Draft a one-page outline with three areas to focus on: how you’ll lead yourself, lead your team, and lead your organization. Revisit it regularly to stay aligned with your goals.
Timestamps:
[00:00] Introduction & Why Happiness Matters
[04:00] The Science Behind Social Connection
[08:00] Redefining Happiness for Introverts
[10:00] The 45 Cardinal Virtues Explained
[12:00] The Six App and Measuring Key Moments
[17:00] How the Brain Creates Happiness
[19:00] Longevity and Social Bonds
[20:00] Love vs. Fear in Leadership
[24:00] Oxytocin, Trust, and Connection
[30:00] Healing Division Through Empathy
[33:00] Emotional Fitness and Therapy
[36:00] Building Happy, Sustainable Organizations
[38:00] Personal Lessons & Reflections
[44:00] Leading with Love and Practical Kindness
[45:00] Final Takeaways & Resources

Conclusion:
To thrive in today’s demanding world, leaders must embrace human-centric leadership. Great leadership starts with self-awareness and a commitment to personal growth. By fostering empathy, encouraging open feedback, and seeing vulnerability as a strength, leaders create environments where teams feel valued and empowered. Practicing fearless learning—letting go of rigid assumptions—enables leaders to adapt and guide their organizations through uncertainty. Ultimately, the most effective leaders prioritize authentic relationships, inclusion, and continuous growth, ensuring their teams can innovate, collaborate, and succeed while building cultures that endure beyond immediate challenges.

Links/Resources:
Website: https://www.getimmersion.com/
Download the SIX app here: https://your6.com/
Book: https://a.co/d/9IIYijt
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-j-zak-91123510/
50 min
October 31, 2025Mark C. Crowley: Beyond Engagement: Building Workplaces Where People Truly Flourish
Today’s episode is made possible by TerraSlate. TerraSlate Waterproof Paper is waterproof, rip-proof, and recyclable — no more laminating sheets, and no more wasted paper. TerraSlate prints through any standard laser printer and can be written on with a regular ballpoint pen. From ocean dives to mountain summits, it’s trusted by the NFL, the U.S. military, and Michelin-starred restaurants to perform when nothing else does. If your work matters, make it last.

Visit TerraSlate.com and make your ideas indestructible.

Episode recap:
In this powerful conversation with Mark C. Crowley, author of Lead from the Heart and The Power of Employee Wellbeing, we discussed the growing realization that employee engagement without well-being is hollow—and how genuine human connection, frequent feedback, and emotional awareness drive real performance.

Other highlights from the episode:
Why belonging is the new foundation of well-being.
How unresolved trauma shapes leadership—and how awareness leads to healing.
Why resilient leaders embrace uncertainty and learn through “two-way doors.”
How care and accountability together create workplaces people want to stay in.

Mark’s message is simple but radical: when people feel cared for, they thrive—and so do organizations.

Tune in to explore how leading with heart isn’t soft—it’s smart, strategic, and deeply human.

Guest Bio:
With twenty-five years in the competitive financial services industry, Mark C. Crowley rose to national roles, earning Leader of the Year for his emotionally connected, heart-centered approach that drove exceptional performance and employee growth. His book Lead from the Heart (2011, second edition 2023) disrupted conventional management with research proving that traditional methods undermine employee achievement. Now taught in eleven universities, it ignited a global movement for humane leadership. In his new book, The Power of Employee Well-Being, he advances this vision, demonstrating that thriving teams fuel organizational success. Mark’s Lead from the Heart podcast, ranked in the top 1.5 percent globally, reaches 175+ countries.

Quotes:
Feelings and emotions drive behavior. Engagement is literally a decision of the heart."
"If you don't know yourself, how could you possibly manage other people? You're not well-informed."
"Belonging isn't just connection. It's emotional safety, respect, and the freedom to be who you are."
"When you make decisions, think about how they'll make people feel. That's what it means to lead with love."
"The work experience should not be something people dread. Create a culture where people want to belong."

Key Takeaways
Know yourself before you lead others. Reflect on your upbringing and motivations. Hidden childhood influences often shape your leadership habits.
Clarify your values. Define what you stand for, and let those values guide every decision—even when it costs you short-term success.
Build belonging. Create environments where people feel safe, respected, and accepted for who they are.
Lead with love. You don't need to say "I love you" at work. You show it by caring about how people feel and treating them with kindness.
Embrace uncertainty. Replace fear with curiosity and experimentation—model calm confidence during change.

Timestamps
[00:02] The failure of the engagement industry
[02:29] Mark's return to the show and his new book, The Power of Employee Well-Being
[02:52] A childhood without love shaped a new kind of leadership philosophy
[07:13] The evolution of "heart-based" leadership and why it's now mainstream
[10:59] Why engagement hasn't improved in 12 years—and how companies got it wrong
[16:51] Moving from engagement to well-being as a leadership priority
[17:23] The first key drivers of well-being: Know thyself and know thy values
[24:03] Why values matter more than performance—and the courage to protect culture
[27:15] The most significant driver of well-being: Belonging and emotional safety
[30:41] How to lead through uncertainty with confidence and hope
[37:04] The link between childhood wounds and leadership behavior
[41:52] Why workplace change is inevitable—and how well-being is the future
[48:56] How to lead with actionable love every day
[51:17] Why work should never be something people dread
[53:13] Where to connect with Mark and explore his work

Conclusion:
Mark C. Crowley's message is clear: the future of leadership depends on humanity. Employee engagement may have stalled, but well-being is the key to unlocking performance, retention, and innovation. When leaders know themselves, honor their values, and build genuine belonging, they create workplaces where people thrive. Leading with love isn't soft—it's strategic.

Links/Resources:
Website – https://markccrowley.com/
Book - https://www.amazon.com/Power-Employee-Well-Being-Engagement-Flourishing/dp/B0DRXGD4YK/
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/markccrowley/
Podcast - https://markccrowley.com/podcasts/
Thank You!
59 min
October 24, 2025Ed Frauenheim: Liberating Masculinity
Today’s episode is made possible by TerraSlate. TerraSlate Waterproof Paper is waterproof, rip-proof, and recyclable — no more laminating sheets, and no more wasted paper. TerraSlate prints through any standard laser printer and can be written on with a regular ballpoint pen. Powered by 100% renewable energy and recently named a Denver Broncos Small Business Partner, TerraSlate combines durability with sustainability. From ocean dives to mountain summits, it’s trusted by the NFL, the U.S. military, and Michelin-starred restaurants to perform when nothing else does. If your work matters, make it last.

Visit TerraSlate.com and make your ideas indestructible.

Episode recap:
In this Love in Action podcast episode, guest Ed Frauenheim discusses the concept of "confined masculinity"—the traditional view that men must be stoic, dominant, and self-reliant—which often leads to emotional suppression, poor relationships, and health issues. Ed shares his personal experiences, including a mild heart attack and a cancer diagnosis, as moments that forced him to reevaluate his own masculinity. He and co-author Ed Adams propose "liberating masculinity" as an alternative—one that embraces compassion, emotional expression, connection, and vulnerability. Their book, Reinventing Masculinity, outlines how this new model can lead to better well-being, stronger relationships, and more effective leadership. The conversation emphasizes that healthy masculinity is about balance—integrating both traditionally “masculine” and “feminine” traits. It’s not about rejecting strength, but expanding what strength means.

Guest Bio:
Ed Frauenheim is a soulful storyteller, a writer, speaker, and consultant who has focused on workplace, technology, and culture matters for more than 25 years. His stories have been featured in USA Today, Harvard Business Review, and Fortune. Ed spent six years as director of content at Great Place to Work, the global consultancy that produces the annual Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For list. His co-written book, Reinventing Masculinity, outlines the way to better well-being, stronger relationships, and more effective leadership.

Quotes
“Winning isn’t everything.”
“We’re told to be tough all the time. The truth is, we need to be tough and tender.”
“Clear courage today is emotional: naming pain, asking for help, and saying ‘I love you, man.’”
“Curiosity turns know-it-alls into learn-it-alls.”
“Liberating masculinity lets a man truly love—in every sense of the word.”

Takeaways
Name the trap. Confined masculinity prizes stoicism, domination, and lone-wolf myths; it shortens lives and weakens teams.
Practice the Five C’s.
Curiosity: Ask more, assume less.
Compassion: Start with self-kindness; pain is human, not a personal failure.
Connection: Men need men—find healthy brotherhood (walk-and-talks, groups, circles).
Courage: Include emotional and moral courage (own privilege, apologize, seek help).
Commitment: Build weekly habits (journaling, check-ins) so change sticks.
+ Contemplation (BONUS): Prayer/meditation to return to your best self.
Lead with both/and. Tough-minded on standards; tender-hearted with people.
Model vulnerability. Leaders who share struggles (mental health, setbacks) unlock trust and performance.
Redesign rewards. Promote for humility, empathy, and learning—not just charisma and conquest.

Timestamps
[00:00] Marcel’s intro + why masculinity matters now
[04:00] Ed’s story: success on paper, struggle inside
[07:00] Health wake-ups: heart attack, cancer—and choosing help
[09:30] Defining confined masculinity (stoic, self-made, self-sacrificing)
[13:30] How we got here: history, culture, and alternatives
[18:00] The antidote: liberating masculinity & the Five C’s
[22:00] Self-compassion vs. self-pity; Kristen Neff’s insights
[27:00] Connection without shame: men’s groups that work
[31:00] “Tough & tender” leadership in action (ski industry example)
[36:00] Curiosity: from know-it-all to learn-it-all
[38:30] Role models at the top: soulful leadership that performs
[41:00] Homework: journal, join a men’s group, contemplation
[44:00] Women & promotion: why the wrong traits get rewarded—and how to fix it
[48:00] Faith in men: most guys are more supportive than we think
[50:30] Leading with love: start by listening
[51:30] Final takeaway: fuller lives are possible—for all of us

Conclusion:
Ed Frauenheim’s story reminds us that true strength isn’t found in silence or self-reliance but in the courage to connect, feel, and grow. By embracing “liberating masculinity,” men can lead with both toughness and tenderness—creating healthier families, stronger teams, and more compassionate workplaces. Leadership rooted in love and curiosity fosters trust, innovation, and long-term success. As Ed’s journey shows, self-compassion and connection are not signs of weakness but pathways to wholeness. The future belongs to men who have the courage to lead with heart.

Links / Resources
Book: Reinventing Masculinity: The Liberating Power of Compassion and Connection (Ed Frauenheim & Ed Adams): https://a.co/d/clezbvM
Connect with Ed on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ed-frauenheim-685294/
Website – https://www.edfrauenheim.com/
Substack (Ed’s Cancer Journey) - https://frauentimes.substack.com/
56 min
October 17, 2025Kyle Ewing on Leading Multiple Companies, Culture, Delegation, and AI
Today’s episode is made possible by TerraSlate. TerraSlate Waterproof Paper is waterproof, rip-proof, and recyclable — no more laminating sheets, and no more wasted paper. TerraSlate prints through any standard laser printer and can be written on with a regular ballpoint pen. Powered by 100% renewable energy and recently named a Denver Broncos Small Business Partner, TerraSlate combines durability with sustainability. From ocean dives to mountain summits, it’s trusted by the NFL, the U.S. military, and Michelin-starred restaurants to perform when nothing else does. If your work matters, make it last.
Visit TerraSlate.com and make your ideas indestructible.

Marcel sits down with Kyle Ewing, CEO and founder of TerraSlate, a two-time Inc. 5000 honoree known for creating waterproof paper used by top restaurants and NFL teams. Kyle shares his journey from Olympic-level skiing to entrepreneurship and building multiple companies. He shares how his Inverted Pyramid Leadership model—where leaders serve their teams—drives TerraSlate’s success. He breaks down core values of grit, growth, focus, and candor, his “buy back your time” principle for scaling, and his Business Navigator Operating System for helping founders start and scale their businesses. Kyle also explores using AI as a “co-CEO”, documenting systems, and leading with clarity, kindness, and accountability.

Kyle Ewing is the CEO and Founder of TerraSlate. Under his leadership, TerraSlate has been featured in Forbes, The Wall Street Journal, USA Today, the Denver Post, and NPR, and twice named to the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing private companies. Beyond TerraSlate, Kyle also founded Big Island Honey, Windward Equity, and Cube Dynamics, and invests in Sustainability Partners to advance eco-conscious innovation. He blends business acumen with heart-centered leadership, reminding us that leading with love unlocks true potential. Kyle has been recognized with Business Elite’s “40 Under 40” and as a two-time Titan 100 award winner in Colorado.

Quotes
“Leading with love is doing the hard thing, not the easy thing.”
“Don’t delegate the task, delegate the outcome—and always state the why.”
“Clear is kind. The worst thing you can do to someone is delay feedback.”
“Culture isn’t soft. It’s the system that scales your company.”
“If someone else can do it for less than your hourly rate, delegate it right now.”
“AI doesn’t replace you. It replicates your thinking so your people can lead without fear.”

Takeaways
Flip the leadership pyramid: serve your team so they can serve your customers.
Document everything. Systems free people to lead with humanity.
Delegate outcomes, not tasks, and always explain the purpose.
Build a “Co-CEO” AI system to preserve your company’s institutional knowledge.

Timestamps:
[00:00] Welcome and intro to Kyle Ewing
[03:00] From Olympic trials to business rebirth
[06:00] The origin of TerraSlate and waterproof paper
[10:00] Redefining leadership through service and empathy
[14:50] The four values driving TerraSlate’s success
[21:30] The art of delegation and owning the outcome
[26:30] Time hacking and the buyback rate
[29:30] Building a “Co-CEO” using AI
[33:00] Speed round: lessons, decompression, and legacy
[35:00] How to lead with love and practical kindness
[37:50] Why true networking happens in service, not events
[39:10] Closing: scaling business with heart

Links/Resources:
Website: kyleewing.com
TerraSlate: terraslate.com
Instagram: @kyleewingofficial
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kyleewing
43 min
October 02, 2025Wes Adams & Tamara Myles: How to Create Meaningful Work in Every Employee
Episode recap:
In this episode, Marcel sits down with Wes Adams and Tamara Myles, co-authors of A Meaningful Work, to explore what truly makes work meaningful in the age of AI. Drawing from positive psychology and organizational research, they unpack how leaders can move beyond removing obstacles and instead foster environments of high well-being, challenge, contribution, and connection. They highlight the role of positive, timely feedback in reinforcing meaningful contributions and show how challenge, paired with strong support, creates a “zone of possibility” where people thrive. Together, they make the case that meaningful work is a business imperative. Listeners will walk away with actionable ways to spark purpose and connection in their own workplaces.
Guest Bio:
Wes Adams, CEO of SV Consulting Group, partners with Fortune 500s and growing companies to develop leaders and create effective structures for high-performing teams. He researches positive psychology at the University of Pennsylvania, focusing on leadership practices that help employees thrive.
Tamara Myles is a speaker, author, professor, and entrepreneur focused on human flourishing at work. She helps leaders and organizations like Microsoft, KPMG, and MassMutual unlock meaningful work to boost performance, innovation, and resilience. As faculty at Boston College and at the University of Pennsylvania, her work shows that meaningful work leads to thriving teams and lasting impact.

Quotes
“Leaders are responsible for almost half of each individual’s experience of meaning at work.”
“Community says, I matter here.”
Takeaways
Leaders must intentionally foster community, contribution, and challenge to create meaningful work.
Simple practices—like synchronized breaks, positive feedback, and development conversations—can transform team culture.
Timestamps
[00:00] Marcel’s introduction: why meaningful work matters in today’s world
[04:19] Tamara’s personal story: what makes work meaningful (or not)
[06:26] Wes’s journey: purpose-driven work isn’t always meaningful
[09:33] Defining meaningful work and debunking misconceptions
[12:41] Has the meaning of work changed post-pandemic?
[23:43] Research on social connection and productivity
[28:22] The “friendship effect” and overcoming challenges together
[28:31] Contribution—understanding impact and purpose at work
[52:21] The power of saying “thank you” and recognizing others

Conclusion
Wes Adams and Tamara Myles make it clear: meaningful work is not about what you do, but how you experience it—and leaders play a pivotal role in shaping that experience. By focusing on community, contribution, and challenge, and by practicing care, feedback, and support, leaders can ignite passion and performance in every employee. The call to action is simple: start today, with small steps, to make work more meaningful for your team and yourself. The ripple effects can transform not just organizations, but lives.
Links Mentioned
Book: https://www.amazon.com/Meaningful-Work-Passion-Performance-Employee/dp/1541704533
Website: https://www.makeworkmeaningful.com/
Send Marcel a text message!
57 min
September 25, 2025Kimberly Davis: How to Unleash Brave Leadership to Achieve Results
Episode recap:
Marcel sits down with Kimberly Davis, actor-turned-leadership coach and author of Brave Leadership. They explore her journey from the stage to coaching leaders worldwide, redefining what bravery means at work, and why authenticity and vulnerability matter more than ever. Kimberly shares strategies for courageous conversations, lessons from her TED talk, and her vision of helping 1 million people uncover their “super objective.” Along the way, you’ll learn how to focus on impact and bring more courage into your leadership.

Guest Bio:
Kimberly Davis is the founder and author of Brave Leadership, where she champions emerging leaders and senior managers navigating today’s workplace. She shares her inspirational message of personal power, responsibility, and impact with organizations across the country and teaches leadership programs worldwide. Kimberly is Adjunct Faculty for Southern Methodist University’s Cox School of Business’ Executive Education Program. She’s also a TEDx speaker, and her book, Brave Leadership, named among Inc. Magazine's most impactful books, became an Amazon bestseller in Business Leadership and Motivation, and received the Benjamin Franklin Silver Award for Business and Career.

Quotes:
"Bravery is not the absence of fear—it’s the choice to move forward in spite of it."
"Authenticity isn’t about oversharing; it’s about aligning your actions with who you truly are."
"The leaders who will thrive in this new world are those who dare to connect, even when it feels uncomfortable."

Takeaways:
Stop trying to be the “perfect” leader—focus instead on being present and authentic.
Bravery is a practice: small, consistent choices to act with clarity and courage.
Connection is leadership currency—without it, influence falls flat.
Fear is natural, but it doesn’t have to run the show.
Leading bravely isn’t about heroics; it’s about showing up as your best, real self.

Timestamps:
[00:00] Welcome and introduction
[01:07] Introducing Kimberly Davis and Brave Leadership
[03:11] Kimberly's Journey from Acting to Leadership Training
[07:19] From Onstage Leadership to Brave Leadership
[12:36] Defining Brave Leadership in Today's World
[17:36] Special Launch Announcement
[22:21] Collaborative Leadership and Global Change
[25:17] Authenticity in Leadership
[26:32] Defining Authenticity in Leadership
[27:53] The Role of Vulnerability in Leadership
[29:02] Navigating Personal Vulnerability
[30:38] Impact of Vulnerability on Leadership
[44:07] Creating a Culture of Courage
[46:23] Speed Round and Final Thoughts

Conclusion:
Leadership today isn’t about following old scripts—it’s about writing a new one rooted in bravery and authenticity. Kimberly Davis reminds us that the leaders who will thrive in uncertain times are those who show up with courage, presence, and connection. By practicing bravery in small, intentional ways, we not only inspire others but also unlock our own potential to lead with impact.

Links:
Now Be Brave - https://nowbebrave.com/
Website - https://brave-leadership.com/
Book: https://www.amazon.com/Brave-Leadership-Confident-Powerful-Authentic-ebook/dp/B077ZH91TG?ref_=ast_author_dp
LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberlydavisonst
Send Marcel a text message!
58 min
September 19, 2025Margaret Moore: The Science of Leadership Based on 50 Years of Research
Episode recap:

Today’s guest is Margaret Morre, MBA, co-author of The Science of Leadership: Nine Ways to Expand Your Impact. Margaret and Marcel discussed the translation of scientific research into practical leadership practices and the nine key leadership capacities. They explored concepts such as conscious leadership, mindfulness, and the "quiet ego," while examining specific leadership qualities and the importance of maintaining healthy relationships and fostering forgiveness in the workplace. The discussion concluded with conversations about shared leadership, the role of AI in leadership development, and the concept of love as an action in leadership contexts.

Bio:

Margaret Moore, MBA, blends leadership, coaching, and science, including thirty years in C-suite roles, co-leading four successful start-ups in biotechnology and coaching, and two decades of professional coaching and coach training. For 25 years, she has been a prolific translator of science into coaching, training, and leadership practice. Margaret's vision for this book is to help bring scientists, leaders, and coaches together to foster leadership excellence and support everyday leaders far and wide.

Quotes:
"Leadership is the highest expression of human endeavor. It’s a calling, a legacy."
"The more whole you are, the more you feel like you’re flying instead of trudging uphill."
"A relationship is a cycle of back and forth, empathy and compassion. The more relational leaders are, the more they can be influential."

Takeaways:
Reflect on your leadership: Are you developing capacities at the self, relational, and systemic levels?
Practice conscious leadership by cultivating presence and integrating your fears into strengths.
Build trust and influence by focusing on relationships, empathy, and forgiveness—not just transactions.
Embrace shared leadership by engaging people at all levels in vision, strategy, and implementation.
Take responsibility for shaping technology (like AI) with intention, values, and accountability.
Pause regularly to assess what your team or organization needs—compassion, agility, or a new perspective.

Timestamps:
[00:00] Introduction and the cost of poor leadership
[00:04] The science behind effective leadership
[03:43] Margaret Moore’s background and approach to translating research
[10:00] The nine leadership capacities and their organization
[12:41] Self, other, and systems-oriented leadership
[13:21] Conscious leadership and the quiet ego
[18:07] Example of conscious leadership: Astronaut Sunita Williams
[20:23] Relational leadership and the importance of trust
[34:21] The rise of AI and the need for responsible leadership
[40:07] Leading with love and values
[43:07] The power of pausing and choosing the right leadership approach
[44:48] Closing thoughts and resources
Conclusion:
Strong leadership today requires a blend of self-awareness, relational intelligence, and systemic thinking. Moving beyond rigid, top-down models allows leaders to create cultures of trust, meaning, and adaptability. The most effective leaders are those who continually grow, model their values, and choose the right approach for each moment. Real change starts with those who lead by example, shaping not just organizations, but the future of leadership itself.
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43 min
September 12, 2025Josh Hartzell: A Doctor’s Prescription for Leadership Excellence
Episode recap:

Marcel and Josh explored the intersection of healthcare, leadership, and well-being, drawing on Josh’s experience as a physician and retired army colonel. They discussed the transition from clinical practice to leadership development, the importance of compassionate leadership, and the need for consistent, evidence-based approaches to improve both staff retention and patient outcomes. Themes included self-awareness, aligning leadership with personal values, listening deeply, and shaping culture intentionally. Josh emphasized making a business case for investing in healthcare worker well-being and caring for teams as a core leadership responsibility. The conversation also touched on humility, resilience, unity, and lifelong learning, with Josh sharing insights from his book A Prescription for Caring in Healthcare Leadership and personal reflections on resilience, humor, and values.

Bio:

Joshua D. Hartzell, MD, MS-HPEd, FACP, FIDSA, is a retired Army Colonel who spent 25 years in military medicine. He deployed as a Battalion Surgeon with the 82nd Airborne Division to Afghanistan. Dr. Hartzell has held numerous leadership positions throughout his career, including being Program Director for the Internal Medicine Residency and Assistant Chief of Graduate Medical Education at Walter Reed National Military Medical Center and Assistant Dean for Faculty Development at the Uniformed Services University. Dr. Hartzell is also a faculty member at the MGH Institute of Health Professions, where he teaches leadership development. A practicing Internal Medicine and Infectious Diseases Physician, he has devoted the last decade to developing leaders, training and teaching thousands of students, residents, and faculty within healthcare.

Quotes
“If we can improve leadership, that’s not only going to improve the lives of the people providing the care, it’s going to improve patient care.”
“Listening is your bridge to growth as an individual and as an organization.”
Takeaways
Make leadership development a priority in healthcare education and organizations.
Practice evidence-based self-care to lead with clarity and resilience.
Anchor decisions in values and balance care with accountability.

Timestamp
[00:00] Marcel’s personal story of toxic leadership in healthcare
[04:30] Dr. Hartzell’s military and medical background
[16:20] Burnout, turnover, and the cost of poor leadership
[20:15] Leadership training in medicine today
[42:10] The role of feedback in shaping culture
[47:25] Building a caring culture for the future of healthcare

Conclusion
Dr. Joshua Hartzell makes it clear that healthcare doesn’t have a medical problem, it has a leadership problem. Developing leaders who care deeply for their people is not optional, it is essential for patient safety, staff well-being, and long-term organizational health. His call is simple but urgent: invest in leadership early, practice self-care as a foundation, and create cultures where listening and accountability thrive. The future of healthcare depends on leaders who choose to care.

Links Mentioned
Dr. Joshua Hartzell on LinkedIn
A Prescription for Caring in Healthcare Leadership (Amazon, Barnes & Noble, major booksellers)
Marcel Schwantes’ website: marcelschwantes.com
Website - https://joshuahartzellmd.com/
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54 min
September 10, 2025Kelly Hall: The Radical Case for Transforming Business Through Love
Episode recap:
Marcel and Kelly discussed the importance of love and compassion in leadership and the workplace, emphasizing how caring environments enhance performance and reduce turnover. Kelly shared her personal journey and experiences leading self-directed organizations, highlighting the benefits of treating employees as adults and activating their free will. They explored the shift from traditional leadership models to a more collaborative, coaching-based approach, where leaders focus on empowering and supporting others. Marcel and Kelly agreed that building a workplace culture centered on love and care not only benefits employees but also leads to better organizational outcomes and profitability. Marcel and Kelly also discussed the evolving landscape of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) in the workplace. Kelly shared her personal experiences and insights, emphasizing that DEI is not about politics but about performance and participation.

Guest Bio:
Kelly Winegarden Hall is a leadership expert and business strategist who helps individuals and organizations move from surviving to thriving. As the founder of Live L.A.R.G.E., she brings 30 years of experience leading diverse teams and transforming struggling businesses into high-performing, self-directing organizations. Her new book is Love Works: Transforming the Workplace with Purpose and Authenticity.

Quotes
“When you start activating people’s free will and they know your hand is on their back, you will make more money. Your projects will happen faster, and those results are more sustainable over time.”
“Inclusion isn’t about being cozy, it’s about being yourself and being supported in doing so. Fierce inclusion means mastering trust and supporting people even when they fail.”

Takeaways
Treat people like adults: ask more questions than you give orders.
Shift from delegation to enrollment, activate free will, not subordination.
Build psychological safety so trauma and life challenges don’t derail performance.

Timestamps
[04:30] Kelly Hall’s story
[06:40] Why love at work
[13:30] From commanders to coaches
[18:30] The LIVE LARGE model
[24:30] The pinnacle of power
[36:45] Communicating with love
[39:50] Advice for CEOs
[51:00] Final reflections
Conclusion
Leading with love may sound unconventional in business, but it’s one of the most powerful ways to build trust, loyalty, and sustainable success. When leaders choose compassion over control and connection over command, they create environments where people feel safe to contribute their best. Love in leadership isn’t about being soft, it’s about being courageous enough to see people as whole human beings. In a time when workplaces are filled with stress and disconnection, choosing love can transform teams, strengthen culture, and unlock results that last.
Links/Resources
Website - Kellywinegardenhall.com
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-hall-0a23a11/
Love Works Book: https://www.amazon.com/Love-Works-Transforming-Workplace-Authenticity/dp/1964508282
The Empowerment Dynamic https://www.amazon.com/POWER-TED-EMPOWERMENT-DYNAMIC-Anniversary/dp/0996871802
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57 min