What makes a good leader truly great? In this week’s episode of Next Steps Forward, host Dr. Chris Meek welcomes Dr. Dana Kirchman, leadership expert, executive coach, and trusted advisor, to explore that very question. With more than 25 years of experience working alongside leaders at the highest levels, Dr. Kirchman shares her insights on the habits, mindsets, and relational skills that drive authentic leadership transformation.

From the role of compassion in high-stakes environments, to the impact of remote and hybrid work, to the essential differences between emotional intelligence and relational intelligence, Dr. Kirchman unpacks what leaders need most to succeed in today’s world. Listeners will also hear her perspectives on when to seek executive coaching, what to look for in a coach, and how coaching can empower both top executives and emerging leaders to reach their full potential.

Whether you’re a seasoned executive, an aspiring leader, or someone curious about how leadership evolves, this episode offers practical wisdom, candid stories, and thought-provoking lessons to help you take your own next steps forward.

About Dr. Dana Kirchman: Dr. Dana Kirchman, Ed.D., J.D., PCC, leads an executive and team coaching practice grounded in compassion and relational intelligence. Dana is a leadership expert, executive coach, and trusted advisor, partnering with leaders at the highest levels for over twenty-five years. Known for her combination of expertise, insightful candor, and care, Dana brings experienced points of view to leadership transformation. Dana holds a Doctorate in Organizational Change and Leadership from the University of Southern California and teaches at the Columbia University Coaching Certificate Program. She is an ICF Professional Certified Coach (PCC) and a Columbia University Certified Executive Coach, combining practical coaching methods with a rigorous understanding of organizational culture. Dana earned her J.D., cum laude, from Harvard Law School and her B.A., summa cum laude, from Yale University. She has also worked as a theatrical producer and is a trained meditation instructor who can integrate creativity and mindfulness into her coaching work. As a counselor and catalyst, Dana supports clients while challenging them to think bigger and lead more purposefully. She is a sought-after guide for executives navigating change.