Can humor really make you a better leader? Paul Osincup thinks so—and he’s got the research (and hilarious stories) to prove it. In this episode, we explore why fun > funny, how to lead with levity without losing credibility, and why your brain (and team) need more laughter. From third-grade “potty jokes” to leadership-level strategy, this is your permission slip to stop taking work so seriously—without being unprofessional. If you’re looking for ways to lead with more impact, connection, and authenticity, this conversation is full of actionable insights.

In this episode of The Savage Leader Podcast, Darren Reinke sits down with Maggie Brady, VP of HR and Talent at White Cap, for a powerful conversation about leading with vulnerability, clarity, and purpose.

Maggie shares her path from consultant to HR executive, including the early leadership challenges that forced her to confront imposter syndrome and lean into vulnerability. She opens up about a pivotal misstep that reshaped her management style—and the lessons she’s carried with her ever since.

From navigating global teams to fostering psychological safety, Maggie offers practical insights on building high-performing teams through trust, open communication, and shared values. She also dives into the deeply personal work of separating self-worth from job performance and redefining success through alignment with purpose.

This episode is packed with honest stories, actionable takeaways, and a fresh perspective on what it really means to lead authentically in today’s workplace.

In this episode of The Savage Leader podcast, Darren Reinke sits down with Michael Glass, Head of Talent and Learning & Development at Resmed, for an unfiltered dive into the world of people management.

Drawing from his 38-year career, Michael shares a pivotal moment that changed his leadership approach - a $6 movie expense that cost him a talented employee. With raw honesty, Glass deconstructs the myths of career development, offering insights into mentorship, professional growth, and the art of leading people. From navigating generational workplace shifts to understanding the true meaning of career success, this conversation provides a roadmap for emerging and established leaders alike.

Packed with personal stories, practical advice, and hard-earned wisdom, this episode challenges listeners to rethink their approach to work, leadership, and personal development.

Homelessness is a crisis, but one organization is making remarkable strides in San Diego.

In this episode, Darren Reinke sits down with Drew Moser, CEO of the Lucky Duck Foundation, to uncover their innovative and impactful approach. Drew shares the inspiring story behind the foundation's formation and the personal transformations they've witnessed. From providing immediate shelter to funding life-changing job training and addiction recovery, the Lucky Duck Foundation is tackling this issue head-on. Hear the stories of hope and learn about the common misconceptions that often prevent progress.

Drew offers practical solutions and a refreshing dose of optimism in the face of one of society's most pressing challenges. Don't miss this inside look at an organization making a tangible difference.

In this episode, Darren Reinke interviews Ramon Marquez, the COO and CMO of the iconic retail brands Sears and Kmart.

Ramon shares his fascinating journey from selling sweaters in college to rising through the ranks of fashion and retail, working for leading brands like Old Navy, American Eagle, and Abercrombie & Fitch.

He discusses the importance of living the brand, the challenges of fast fashion, and the leadership lessons he's learned through personal growth and reviving storied retail names.

Ramon provides unique insights on fostering creativity through scarcity, the power of empathy and humility in leadership, and the opportunity to breathe new life into beloved brands like Sears and Kmart. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in retail, branding, and the mindset of an experienced, purpose-driven executive.

In this episode, Darren Reinke interviews Alok Chanani, the co-founder and CEO of BuildOps. Alok shares his fascinating journey from serving in the military as a combat engineer to founding a technology company focused on serving the "unsung heroes" of the trades industry. 

Alok talked about how he creates a sense of mission by focusing on their customers’ customers, the danger of following a playbook and copying and pasting what your competitors are doing, the value of setting a big, Herculean goal, and much more.

In this episode, host Darren Reinke interviews Bonni Pomush, the inspiring CEO of Working Wardrobes. Bonni shares transformative stories of uplifting others and her insights on building a purpose-driven organization, the power of partnerships, and ways to create positive change. This is a must-listen for anyone seeking inspiration and guidance on making a difference.

In this episode, host Darren Reinke interviews Karen Brasch, the Head of Business Strategy & Operations at AWS. Karen shares her remarkable journey from growing up as the daughter of an Air Force pilot to becoming a pioneering female Navy helicopter pilot. Listeners will be inspired by Karen's perseverance in overcoming doubters and breaking barriers to achieve her dreams. She also provides valuable insights on effective leadership, including empowering your team and maintaining a positive mindset. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in stories of determination and finding purpose in one’s career.

In this episode, Darren Reinke sits down with Margie Newman Tsay, an expert in reputation management and crisis communication. Margie discusses her journey from theater to leading a communications firm, emphasizing the importance of trust and authenticity in leadership. She provides practical advice on managing personal and corporate reputations, handling crises effectively, and maintaining a communication mindset.

 Intesa Communications Group specializes in public relations, government affairs, crisis communications, and executive coaching. The firm focuses on building confidence and strategic communication skills for leaders and organizations.

 Show Notes:

• Margie’s background in theater and how it influenced her communication skills [00:19]
• Margie’s transition from theater to a career in communications, including her first job in a gubernatorial campaign [01:06]
• Why adaptability and public speaking were the most important skills Margie gained from theater [03:35]
• The importance of building trust and being coachable in leadership [05:14]
• Why public relations can be defined as reputation management [12:34]
• The necessity for leaders to maintain a communications mindset and the role of self-awareness [18:07]
• The importance of a personal brand and its impact on authentic leadership [22:12]
• Margie’s top crisis management strategies, and why she focuses on preparation and response [40:24]
• Practical steps for managing crises, including targeted communication and public perception management [49:27]

Links:

Intesa's Website: Intesa Communications Group

Margie Newman on LinkedIn: Margie Newman

In this episode of The Savage Leader Podcast, Darren Reinke sits down with Jordan Justus, the innovative co-founder and CEO of Automotus. Dive into the world of curb management solutions that are reshaping cities and airports worldwide. Jordan shares his journey from a $780 tradeshow test that led to the launch of his successful company. He offers powerful insights on the realities of entrepreneurship, building resilience, and developing thicker skin as an entrepreneur.

Automotus specializes in bringing cutting-edge technology to curb management, helping cities reduce congestion, improve safety, and cut emissions through automated parking management, enforcement, and data collection. Their solutions offer a holistic approach to modern urban mobility challenges.

Show Notes:

• Jordan’s early exposure to entrepreneurship and family background in business [01:12]
• The importance of building trust and transparent relationships in business [04:54]
• Learning from a mentor and the value of integrity in entrepreneurship [06:21]
• Transition from college student to CEO and the inspiration behind Automotus [08:39]
• Initial steps and challenges in establishing Automotus, including the first tradeshow [11:31]
• Overcoming early-stage challenges and securing initial pilots and customers [15:18]
• The pivotal role of curb management in urban mobility and the spark of his business idea [24:05]
• Practical applications and the impact of curb management solutions on reducing traffic and emissions [27:19]
• Jordan’s journey through Automotus’s stages, including cold calling and setting up pilots [30:09]
• How reflecting on criticism led Jordan to develop thicker skin [33:31]
• Jordan’s personal milestones and recent professional achievements [41:07]
• Insights on scaling the business and future directions for Automotus [42:36]

Links:

• Jordan’s LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordan-justus/
• Automotus Website - https://www.automotus.co/