Great leadership starts with backstage conversations, not just center-stage charisma.

I had the best time talking with Carl Walsh—award-winning actor turned business coach—about how the principles of theater can shift the way we build teams, lead people, and run companies. Carl’s path from the Royal Academy of Dramatic Arts to working at Disney and launching Alpha Dogs Coaching is anything but ordinary. And yet, every step is tied together by one powerful thread: relationships.

We talked about how the magic happens when everyone has a seat at what Carl calls “the oval table.” Whether it’s a cast of actors or a team of warehouse staff, real progress starts when you value every voice. Carl shared stories that made me laugh, made me think, and made me grateful all over again for the power of showing up, listening, and leading with heart.

Highlights:

1. Acting Skills that Translate to Business - Carl shares how presence, empathy, and clarity from the theater world shape more effective teams.

2. The Power of the Oval Table - Learn how bringing all voices—especially from the front lines—into decision-making unlocks unseen value.

3. Leadership Lessons from Disney - From prioritizing internal customers to transparency in project planning, Carl explains what Disney got right.

4. Building Cohesion Without Hierarchy - Hear how Alpha Dogs Coaching helps shift companies from siloed and strained to open and collaborative.

5. Why Graciousness Wins Every Time - Carl’s story about Angela Lansbury is a masterclass in staying kind, even when others fall short.

Connect with Carl:

Website: https://thealphadoggroup.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carl-walsh-alphadogs

In appreciation for being here, I have some gifts for you:

A LinkedIn Checklist for setting up your fully optimized Profile:

An opportunity to test drive the Follow Up system I recommend by checking this presentation page - you won’t regret it. 

AND … Don’t forget to connect with me on LinkedIn and be eligible for my complimentary LinkedIn profile audit – I do one each month for a lucky listener!

Connect with me:

http://JanicePorter.com

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