In episode 26 of season 2, we sit down with Topaz Adizes, award-winning filmmaker, founder of The Skin Deep, and author of 12 Questions for Love. Topaz has spent years exploring the transformative power of deep human connection and asking the right questions. In this episode he shares how leaders can create safe spaces for authentic conversations, build trust within teams, and harness group dynamics to unlock creativity.

Topaz emphasizes the importance of “the space between humans” - the emotional gaps and differences that AI cannot replace. He also introduces practical tools to foster open dialogue and strengthen workplace relationships. Through powerful stories and a five-act framework for structuring conversations, Topaz shows leaders how to cultivate vulnerability, navigate conflict, and drive meaningful collaboration.

Tune in to discover how asking better questions and creating intentional spaces can elevate your leadership and bring your teams closer together. 

Whether you’re a new manager or a seasoned executive, this episode offers actionable advice for building resilient, human-centered organizations.

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Like this episode? Be sure to leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review and share the podcast with your colleagues.

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TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES:

[03:17] From filmmaker to exploring the emotional human experience

[05:47] Creating space and asking better questions for transformative conversations

[08:30] How humans can differentiate themselves from AI in the workplace

[12:28] A five-act framework for designing deeper conversations

[17:17] Building trust in new teams by creating safe spaces

[19:47] Using The AND card deck to improve team communication and connection

[22:27] The role of physical and virtual spaces in shaping team dynamics

[25:40] The future of relationships in an AI-driven workplace

[32:47] Balancing creativity by separating brainstorming, execution, and analysis

[37:18] Why leaders must “prime vulnerability” to foster openness in teams

👉 Check out the resources mentioned here: 

https://fellow.app/supermanagers/topaz-adizes

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Connect with Topaz on LinkedIn

Check out Topaz’s films

Check out The And card decks

Read Topaz’s book: 12 Questions for Love

Read Arthur Aron’s 36 Questions to Fall in Love study

Check out The Skin Deep

Join the Supermanagers Slack community

Connect with Aydin on LinkedIn
Follow Fellow on LinkedIn

In this episode of the Supermanagers podcast, we sit down with Zabeen Hirji, former Chief Human Resources Officer at RBC, to explore the evolving role of organizational purpose and leadership in modern times.

Zabeen shares insights from her extensive experience managing a global workforce of 80,000 employees across 40 countries. She emphasizes the importance of regularly revisiting an organization's purpose to align with shifting internal and external environments.

Aydin and Zabeen discuss how AI is reshaping the workplace, and AI's potential to augment human capabilities, automate mundane tasks, and enhance productivity. They also touch on the increasing importance of maintaining a base knowledge alongside AI adoption, advocating for a blend of human employees and AI agents managed with enhanced skills.

Tune in to explore these valuable insights and more, as Zabeen Hirji and Aydin Mirzaee provide a roadmap for thriving in a rapidly transforming work landscape. Don't forget to rate, review, and subscribe to the Supermanagers podcast and share it with your friends and fellow managers.

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Like this episode? Be sure to leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review and share the podcast with your colleagues.

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TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES:

[00:00] Purpose-driven leadership: Insights from Zabeen Hirji

[05:48] Promoting transparency and experimentation in organizations

[11:08] Convergence of human and AI agents

[14:01] Revolutionizing knowledge work: Streamlined data processing

[20:03] Balancing profits and sustainability: A purpose-driven approach

[25:29] Aligning roles with organizational purpose and values

[33:58] Empowering leaders for impactful third act journeys

[35:09] Creating impactful opportunities through wisdom and connections

[38:39] Embracing lifelong learning for personal growth

In episode 24 of season 2, we sit down with Alan Todd, an entrepreneur, executive learning expert, and advocate for cohort-based leadership development. Alan brings decades of experience in helping organizations build learning cultures that harness collective intelligence and foster team resilience. He is known for his work in developing innovative leadership programs and creating environments where individuals and teams thrive through meaningful dialogue and psychological safety.

In this episode, Alan discusses the principles behind building effective cohort-based learning teams and how this approach leverages collective intelligence for organizational success. He explains the importance of balancing System 1 and System 2 thinking to enhance decision-making and team problem-solving. Alan also delves into the concept of connecting people to their purpose and creating sustainable competitive advantages through continuous learning and development.

With real-life examples and actionable takeaways, Alan outlines how leaders can inspire curiosity and embed psychological safety into team dynamics, encouraging open dialogue and diverse perspectives. He also shares his insights on “team-of-teams” leadership and how facilitating conversations across departments can lead to more cohesive and innovative organizations.

Tune in to gain valuable insights from Alan’s strategies on fostering learning cultures, building resilient teams, and leading with empathy.

This episode is ideal for leaders and team members who are passionate about creating environments where everyone can actively learn, grow, and succeed.

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Like this episode? Be sure to leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review and share the podcast with your colleagues.

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TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES:

[03:15] The transformative effect of cohort-based learning

[06:48] System 1 vs. System 2 thinking and their roles in decision-making

[09:34] Psychological safety 

[12:50] The importance of “teaching them to long for the sea” 

[16:27] Diverse thinking and leveraging interaction 

[20:41] Build learning organizations 

[24:03] The “team-of-teams” leadership approach 

[29:15] Unanimous consensus is rare 

[34:50] Connecting people to purpose 

👉 Check out the resources mentioned here: https://fellow.app/supermanagers/alan-todd-udemy

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Connect with Alan on LinkedIn

Check out cohort based learning on Udemy Business

Join the Supermanagers Slack community

Connect with Aydin on LinkedIn
Follow Fellow on LinkedIn

In episode 23 of season 2, we sit down with David Weiss, CEO of Weiss International, an expert in leadership development, innovation, and navigating complex organizational challenges. David’s experience as an author, speaker, and executive coach has equipped him with unparalleled insights into how leaders can thrive amid uncertainty and foster team environments that drive innovation and engagement.

In this episode, David dives into the essential qualities leaders need today, focusing on the power of emotional intelligence and how to lead effectively when ambiguity is the norm. He explores how fostering open dialogue and creating collaborative spaces can unlock a team's creative potential. David also shares practical strategies for helping leaders at all levels develop the resilience and agility needed to adapt to ever-changing business landscapes.

With actionable takeaways and real-world examples, David explains how leaders can close leadership gaps, inspire their teams, and harness the collective intelligence of their organizations to solve complex problems. He emphasizes the importance of developing emotional maturity and facilitating conversations that lead to impactful decision-making.

Tune in to learn David’s proven frameworks for leading through change, building innovative cultures, and enhancing your leadership toolkit for the future.

This episode is a must-listen for anyone committed to expanding their leadership capacity and fostering team success.

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Like this episode? Be sure to leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review and share the podcast with your colleagues.

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TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES:

[05:22] The importance of emotional intelligence and why it’s essential for modern leadership

[08:15] Building resilient teams 

[12:38] Strategies for facilitating open dialogue 

[16:45] Closing leadership gaps and empowering leaders at every level

[21:10] How to approach leadership when faced with ambiguity

[26:07] Embedding innovation into team culture

[30:23] Real-life examples of leaders successfully navigating complex challenges

[32:50] The role of emotional maturity in making decisions

👉 Check out the resources mentioned here: https://fellow.app/supermanagers/david-weiss-weiss-international 

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Connect with David on LinkedIn

Check out Weiss International

Check out David’s books

Join the Supermanagers Slack community

Connect with Aydin on LinkedIn
Follow Fellow on LinkedIn

In episode 22 of season 2, we sit down with Charlie Gilkey, founder of Productive Flourishing, a professional training and coaching company/community dedicated to helping individuals and teams achieve their best work. Charlie is an author, executive coach, and workplace consultant known for his expertise in organizational development, change management, and leadership strategies.

In this episode, Charlie unpacks essential team habits that can transform how teams operate, from addressing common workplace challenges, like the "broken printer problem," to fostering better communication and alignment. He introduces powerful concepts such as the "air sandwich" and explains how to identify and overcome cultural debt that holds teams back from success. Charlie also shares insights from his books Start Finishing and Team Habits, detailing how to build strong, cohesive teams that thrive on purpose and productivity.

With practical examples and actionable advice, Charlie emphasizes the importance of retrospectives, proactive problem-solving, and creating a culture where every team member contributes to continuous improvement. He challenges the notion that only managers can instigate change and highlights the potential of non-managers to drive team success.

Tune in to discover Charlie’s frameworks for improving team habits, developing sustainable work practices, and creating an environment where teams can excel.

This episode is a must-listen for leaders and team members looking to foster a culture of growth, innovation, and resilience!

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Like this episode? Be sure to leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review and share the podcast with your colleagues.

. . .

TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES:

[03:11] Military to executive coach

[07:12] Have ever heard of an “air sandwich”?

[11:56] The “broken printer problem” 

[17:42] Prioritizing “Quadrant 2 time” for teams

[23:33] Importance of regular retrospectives 

[29:24] How to identify meeting inefficiencies

[34:41] Team habits that empower every member

[38:25] Your team is stronger than you give them credit for

👉 Check out the resources mentioned here: https://fellow.app/supermanagers/charlie-gilkey-productive-flourishing

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Connect with Charlie on LinkedIn

Check out Productive Flourishing

Check out Charlie’s book Team Habits

Check out Charlie’s book Start Finishing

Join the Supermanagers Slack community

Connect with Aydin on LinkedIn
Follow Fellow on LinkedIn

In episode 21 of season 2, we sit down with Charlene Li, New York Times bestselling author and expert in digital transformation and disruptive leadership. Known for her impactful books, including The Disruption Mindset, Open Leadership, and Groundswell, Charlene shares insights from her latest book, Winning with Generative AI: The 90-Day Blueprint for Success, which provides a strategic approach to harnessing the potential of generative AI as a leader.

In this episode, Charlene dives into the art of leading through disruption and creating growth-focused, purpose-driven organizations. She explores how leaders can shift from maintaining the status quo to actively pursuing change that aligns with future customer needs. Charlene also shares her unique framework for identifying “Big Gulp” moments — decisions that challenge leaders to embrace risk confidently — and practical methods to make AI a transformative force within teams and companies.

With real-world examples and actionable strategies, Charlene breaks down the three critical questions every leader should ask to stay aligned with evolving markets and build a resilient organization. She also shares stories from her career, and her journey from Harvard Business School to becoming a sought-after advisor for top executives.

Tune in to learn Charlene’s strategies for leading in a rapidly changing world, leveraging AI for competitive advantage, and fostering a company culture ready to tackle future challenges.

This episode is packed with wisdom for anyone looking to lead change, think strategically, and future-proof their organization!

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Like this episode? Be sure to leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review and share the podcast with your colleagues.

. . .

TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES:

[03:04] Vulnerability makes you a better leader

[07:30] The connection between growth and disruption

[09:02] “Big G” versus “small g" growth

[11:33] Building a disruption-ready organization

[17:23] 3 questions every employee should be able to answer

[23:42] “Big Gulp” moments in decision-making

[28:49] The importance of decision-making preparedness 

[29:59] Generative AI is an accelerating force 

👉 Check out the resources mentioned here: https://fellow.app/supermanagers/charlene-li-quantam-networks-group

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Connect with Charlene on LinkedIn

Check out Quantum Networks

Check out Charlene’s latest book, Winning with Generative AI: The 90-Day Blueprint for Success

Join the Supermanagers Slack community

Connect with Aydin on LinkedIn
Follow Fellow on LinkedIn

In episode 20 of season 2, we sit down with Shivani Berry, CEO and founder of Arise Leadership, a program dedicated to helping women advance in their careers and excel in leadership roles.

In this episode, Shivani delves into the key leadership skills that professionals must master to succeed, including strategic influence and getting buy-in from dominant personalities. She also explores the importance of becoming a "feedback magnet" and the power of using reflection to overcome imposter syndrome. 

With practical examples and actionable insights, Shivani explains how leaders can create a culture of development within their teams and organizations. She also shares her personal journey of transitioning from tech management to founding Arise Leadership, and the challenges she faced along the way.

Tune in to learn Shivani’s unique frameworks for leadership growth, strategies for navigating complex work environments, and how to unlock your full potential as a leader. 

You’ll find this episode valuable if you’re looking to improve your leadership skills and drive success in your organization!

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Like this episode? Be sure to leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review and share the podcast with your colleagues.

. . .

TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES:

[02:41] Mastering strategic influence is critical for leadership 

[06:36] Getting buy-in from dominant personalities

[09:15] Building trust and credibility

[12:45] Why leaders fail to get buy-in and how to avoid them

[18:46] Techniques for effective reflection

[19:28] How to consistently receive high-quality feedback

[32:18] Senior leadership challenges

[34:02] Turning self-doubt into leadership strength

[41:10] How organizations can support and accelerate the growth of women in leadership

👉 Check out the resources mentioned here: https://fellow.app/supermanagers/shivani-berry-arise-leadership

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

In episode 19 of season 2, we sit down with Aaron Hurst, a serial social entrepreneur and author of The Purpose Economy. Aaron is an expert on the science of purpose and fulfillment and has dedicated his career to helping individuals and organizations discover their purpose. 

In this episode, Aaron shares his insights on building a purpose mindset within teams and the importance of fulfillment at work, as well as offers practical strategies for leaders, including storytelling, reflection, and creating space for employees to find meaning. 

Throughout the conversation, Aaron dives deep into the science of purpose, offering compelling data from his research at NYU and PwC, and shares how leaders can implement these findings to foster engagement and growth in their organizations.

Tune in to learn how Aaron’s experience and research can help you create a more meaningful and fulfilling workplace, and discover why adopting a purpose-driven leadership style can lead to higher performance and satisfaction across your team.

You’ll find this episode valuable if you’re a leader looking to cultivate purpose in your organization and empower your team to thrive both personally and professionally!

. . .

Like this episode? Be sure to leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review and share the podcast with your colleagues.

. . .

TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES:

[02:15] Aaron's early entrepreneurial journey and family influence

[07:15] Purpose mindset vs transactional mindset

[09:20] Importance of hiring people with a purpose mindset

[11:30] How reflection and gratitude can create meaning at work

[16:05] Storytelling to drive team alignment and purpose

[19:10] The science behind purpose and why it matters in organizations

[22:50] Organizational strategies for fostering purpose and meaning

[29:00] Challenges in scaling teams and dealing with failure

[37:30] Using a portfolio approach to building multiple businesses

👉 Check out the resources mentioned here: https://fellow.app/supermanagers/aaron-hurst-the-purpose-economy

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Connect with Aaron on LinkedIn

Read Aaron’s book The Purpose Economy

Learn more about Aaron’s organization: Taproot Foundation 

Check out Aaron’s company Imperative 

Check out Aaron’s platform Board.Dev 

Join the Supermanagers Slack community

Connect with Aydin on LinkedIn
Follow Fellow on LinkedIn

In episode 18 of season 2, we sit down with Patrick Ewers, founder of Mindmaven and author of Radical Delegation. Patrick is an expert on productivity and relationship building, and in this episode, he shares his powerful strategies for freeing up time and increasing impact as a leader. 

Patrick discusses his concept of radical delegation, which allows leaders to regain 10 to 12 hours a week by delegating tasks more effectively. He emphasizes the importance of investing in relationships, explaining that strong relationships are key to success, yet often overlooked due to their lack of urgency.

Patrick also dives into the concept of positive alacrity, the simple but transformative habit of voicing positive thoughts immediately to strengthen relationships and improve workplace culture. 

Tune in to learn how Patrick's innovative approach to delegation and relationship building can help you become a more effective and impactful leader!

You’ll find this episode valuable if you’re a leader looking to optimize your time, develop relationships, and delegate tasks effectively for long-term success. 

. . .

Like this episode? Be sure to leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review and share the podcast with your colleagues.

. . .

TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES:

[04:42] How to free up time and increase productivity

[06:07] Patrick's mistake when trusting his gut in relationships

[09:46] The importance of body language and face-to-face communication

[14:34] The purpose of radical delegation

[18:58] Using an Engagement Manager for effective delegation

[22:07] Follow-up emails and dictation tools will build stronger relationships

[31:58] Inbox shadowing to increase efficiency

[39:10] Building trust with an engagement manager can enhance long-term productivity

👉 Check out the resources mentioned here: https://fellow.app/supermanagers/patrick-ewers-mindmaven

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE:

Connect with Patrick on LinkedIn

Read Patrick’s book Radical Delegation 

Check out Patrick’s company Mindmaven

Join the Supermanagers Slack community

Connect with Aydin on LinkedIn

Follow Fellow on LinkedIn

In episode 17 of season 2, we sit down with Jerry Colonna, the CEO of Reboot.IO and author of Reunion: Leadership and the Longing to Belong. Jerry is known for his radical approach to leadership and self-inquiry, and in this episode, he shares his insights on how leaders can create conditions of belonging within their organizations. He explores the concept of radical self-inquiry, emphasizing the importance of making the unconscious conscious to break free from recurring patterns that hinder personal and professional growth.

Jerry also delves into the power of empathy in leadership and how fostering real conversations can lead to more inclusive and supportive work environments. Through practical examples, Jerry discusses the importance of leaders taking responsibility for their role in shaping the culture of their organizations. He encourages leaders to look inward, challenge their belief systems, and actively create conditions where everyone can belong.

Tune in to learn how Jerry's philosophy can help you build a more inclusive and empathetic workplace. This episode offers profound insights for leaders looking to deepen their understanding of themselves and their role in creating a more connected and human-centered organization.

You’ll find this episode valuable if you’re a leader aiming to foster belonging, lead with empathy, and create a culture that embraces real conversations!

. . .

Like this episode? Be sure to leave a ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ review and share the podcast with your colleagues.

. . .

TIME-STAMPED SHOW NOTES:

[01:10] Discussing radical self-inquiry

[03:47] Radical self-inquiry’s importance in leadership

[07:01] Overview of Jerry’s new book, Reunion: Leadership and the Longing to Belong

[11:40] Creating conditions for belonging in the workplace

[16:38] The challenge of empathy and inclusion in the workplace

[18:41] How a CEO can foster an inclusive culture

[25:25] Dealing with divisiveness in organizations

[33:80] Stop thinking you have to have all the answers

👉 Check out the resources mentioned here: https://fellow.app/supermanagers/jerry-colonna-reboot

RESOURCES MENTIONED IN THIS EPISODE: