Closing The Gap With Denise Cooper

In 2024, leaders may grapple with uncertainty and a sense of urgency as they navigate the complex and emotionally charged process of transformation. While the drive for change is crucial, balancing it with empathy and attention to the human element is equally important. Leading transformation is no easy feat - it requires a delicate balance of strategy, execution, and people management. As a hiring executive, it's crucial to identify internal talent who possess not only the necessary skills but also the adaptability, resilience, and emotional intelligence to thrive in a rapidly changing environment. In this episode, Deborah Walsh and I delve into the three key considerations for hiring and evaluating internal talent in a transforming organization: defining the right skill set, creating a culture of adaptability, and fostering emotional intelligence.We'll also talk about:Leaders may experience feelings of uncertainty, fear of the unknown, and a sense of urgency to drive change while also balancing the human el

Tired of the same old HR-executive drama? As an executive, do you question whether you're getting enough value from your HR department? Do you feel HR isn't preparing your company for the future? CHROs are worried that your team is myriad in the past and not staying relevant or preparing for the future. Can your HR Business Partners convince managers to change and develop their leadership skills? Well, it's time to reinvent the relationship and unlock your team's true potential. In this episode, we dive into The common pitfalls of hiring and scaling, How to change mindsets and get others to embrace change. Results your HR function needs to achieve to demonstrate relevance to the business. Karan is an organizational strategist who is obsessed with up-leveling leadership capability and optimizing workforces to do their best work. After 18+ years of witnessing the chaos and trauma caused by bad HR and leadership actions within organizations, she ditched her comfy job as a corporate HR exec at Microsoft to found

Have you ever wanted to ask for a raise, find out why something happened, or frame a question to encourage collaboration? We've all heard there is a "right way to ask a question." Chances are, if you were faced with any of these three questions, you've struggled to get the answers you want or need. Brian Gibkowski, our guest today, has a new book called Answer Intelligence: Raise Your AQ (IQ). The most interesting thing I learned was how often we ask lazy questions that aren't aimed at getting the right answer. His work helps you develop the skills to get the answers you need to make the best decisions. We talk about: How to answer questions during a job interview.How to ask questions and increase the chances of getting the "true" facts rather than the safe answers. Using story, procedure, and action to improve communication and reduce rework. How to provide discipline and intentionality in your meeting so you get the best answers. Brian Glibkowski, Ph.D. Dr. Brian Glibkowski is an author, researcher, and f

When Robert Sutton wrote the book, The No "A**hole" Rule, he received over 8,000 emails from people who were or are managed by a toxic boss. Research shows about 65% of bosses are toxic. How can anyone be successful if you work for a toxic boss?Does the toxic boss know they are an "A**hole"?Why do executives and HR tolerate the horrendous impact of toxic bosses on employees, productivity, and the bottom line?Do organizations breed toxic bosses? In this episode, we'll delve into the detrimental impact of toxic bosses on their employees and the organization as a whole. We'll explore six distinct types of toxic bosses, their prevalence, and the harmful effects they exert on their teams.My guess Rob Kalwarowski, says he knows why and what you can do about it. How does he know? Rob was at the top of his game as an MIT graduate Mechanical Engineer, and then he had to work with a toxic boss. What he learned and how he learned to heal and help others heal is something to hear. Listen as we Define 6 types of toxic bos

Toxic positivity has become a prevalent issue in the workplace, with several studies highlighting its widespread impact.67.8% of respondents in a Science of People survey reported experiencing toxic positivity from someone in the past week. More than 75% of respondents in the same survey admitted that they "sometimes, often, or very often ignore their own emotions in favor of being happy." Source: Science of People survey, 2023But why should an executive or even a manager care?What’s wrong with pumping up people by focusing on what’s working? In a recent Forbes article entitled The Negative Impact of Toxic Positivity In the Workplace, Senior Contributor Jack Kelly defined “toxic positivity as the belief that employees must focus on positive emotions and disavow negative feelings in the workplace. A toxic positivity agenda calls for being enthusiastic and upbeat despite the dire situation. No matter what goes wrong, you are not allowed to show or say anything resembling negativity. No

In today's episode, Denise Cooper and returning guest regular Deborah Snow Walsh delve into the essential role of HR in navigating the shift from change to transformation in organizations. We're talking about turnover. Listen as Deborah talks about the hidden costs and drivers of turnover. I promise it's not what you think and costs you more than you might be aware. Learn why hiring the wrong person creates conflict in your organization.We'll review resumes carefully, develop a list of questions to ask, and be clear about the skills and experience you are looking for.We'll share what most managers unintentionally do that creates a workplace culture where people want to leave and how to create an enjoyable workplace where people want to stay. Deborah Snow Walsh is the Head of Talent for Brown & Brown Insurance Company. Brown & Brown is the fifth largest insurance brokerage in the nation, with over $ 4 billion in equity. Before joining Brown & Brown, Deborah was CEO of Deborah Snow Walsh Executive S

Have you ever wondered how to create a safer and more supportive workplace? In this episode, Denise Cooper, our host, delves into the world of workplace psychological safety with an expert in the field. Join us as we interview Linda R. Crockett, a renowned figure in workplace psychological safety, who brings over 34 years of experience to the table.Cooper's conversation with Linda explores various facets of workplace psychological safety. In this episode, they discuss the definition of psychological harassment to dispel misconceptions and stereotypes, recognizing risk factors and early warning signs, and the profound impact on individuals, leaders, and the overall work environment. Linda shares real stories that shed light on the human experience of those affected by workplace bullying or harassment, emphasizing the importance of trauma-informed prevention, intervention, and recovery strategies.Linda also reveals her personal journey, recounting experiences of speaking up against workplace misconduct, facing

Ever wondered what it takes to build a healthcare ecosystem that works for everyone, including small town communities? Breck L. Rice is here to answer this, explaining his mission to remove the middle man in healthcare.In this detailed episode, Denise Cooper engages in a lively conversation with Breck L. Rice, a visionary working tirelessly to bridge the disparities in healthcare across different demographic and geographic landscapes. With a background in revenue cycle management and risk mitigation, Rice emphasizes the gravity of pharmacist involvement in ensuring personal and compassionate patient care. He shares the inception story of his endeavor into helping community pharmacies - a journey rooted in the heartfelt need to stand against large pharmacy benefit managers exploiting the system for financial gains.Rice poignantly recounts his experiences and friendships forged over years with community pharmacists and how he endeavored to protect their interests, even at the risk of facing legal challenges.Thr

How can we change our workplaces and societies to be more inclusive and understanding of neurodiverse individuals?In this deeply insightful episode, our host Denise Cooper sits down with Say Gabriel, the founder of Growing Mighty Leaders, to discuss a topic we often overlook but significantly impacts 15% of our population: neurodiversity. Say, who got her start as an unemployed graduate before forming a digital content agency and eventually pivoting into her current venture, has a unique background that combines business acumen with empathy and spirituality.Together they dive into how research shows that a significant portion of the neurodiverse population is walking around undiagnosed, with women being particularly underdiagnosed. Denise and Say explore the often ignored responsibilities that neuro-normative individuals have in fostering an inclusive environment. They touch on the delicate balance of logical thinking with deep spirituality, and how these can actually be complementary qualities, especially wh

Have you ever wondered how neuroscience can be utilized to enhance Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) within an organization? In what ways can we use data and a tech-driven approach to build diverse, inclusive teams that set new records in productivity?In this intriguing episode, our host, Denise Cooper, is interviewing Diana File, the founder and CEO of DF Analytics. With a background in organizational psychology and expertise in workforce analytics, team building, and conflict resolution, Diana has been driving results for businesses all around the world. Utilizing her neuroscience-based approach to DEI, she has helped companies uncover the deep neuroscientific factors that contribute to success or failure in their teams. Whether it's analyzing years of data to improve managerial effectiveness or overhauling business strategies to combat systemic bias, her innovative approach has been transformative for a variety of clients, including NASDAQ, Genentech, and the US Centers for Disease Control.If you've b

Have you ever wondered what it takes to navigate the most challenging conflicts, resolve disputes that seem unsolvable, and negotiate deals with confidence and success?In this episode, Denise Cooper sits down with the extraordinary Hesha Abrams, a world-renowned mediator, negotiator, and author with more than 30 years of experience in resolving conflicts and negotiating deals. Hesha has tackled some of the most difficult cases in the fields of intellectual property, antitrust, securities, and beyond. Her ability to navigate through challenging personalities, cultural barriers, and highly political situations makes her a sought-after professional in her field.From international symposiums to domestic and international cases, Hesha's knack for crafting pragmatic solutions has made her a revered figure in the world of conflict resolution. Her expertise goes beyond standard practice, encompassing complex emotional dynamics and unique approaches that stand out in the world of mediation. Her upcoming book, "Holding

Your company's next big break might not be a product or strategy. It could be a story waiting to be told.In today's episode, our esteemed host, Denise Cooper, sits down with the multifaceted CEO and Founder, Dan Cooley. Dan's journey from being a young enthusiast in the world of theater to establishing himself in the competitive realm of business is nothing short of inspirational. He began his exploration of storytelling and directing at the Actors Playground School of Theatre and, over the years, transitioned into the world of marketing and business. With the inception of his boutique marketing agency, Cooley Creative Media, Dan honed the art of helping businesses narrate their unique tales.But Dan’s story doesn't just end at business. He's a dedicated husband and father of two, and his personal experiences deeply enrich and inform his professional insights. As he discusses the nuances and challenges of modern storytelling, especially in the age of social media, listeners are bound to find resonance and valu

Are you wondering how to move your business from strategic guessing to strategic innovation? If so, this episode of our podcast might just be the one you've been waiting for. Our host, Denise Cooper, is joined by none other than Pamela Brooks Richards. As an executive coach with an undying passion for facilitating positive change, Pam has a wealth of knowledge to share with us today on the pivotal topic of strategic innovationThis episode's discussion takes a deep dive into the heart of strategic innovation and how it not only pertains to business but also our personal lives. Pamela Brooks Richards points out the inherent tension and potential conflict in this process. She emphasizes the need to think out of the box, to step out of our bubble, to see things in broader strokes before narrowing down to specifics. This, she says, helps us get out of our own way, view things from a fresh perspective, and prevent ourselves from prematurely discarding ideas that could lead to innovation.So, if you've been seeking i

Have you ever wondered how to navigate office politics, lead your team effectively, and take challenging decisions in the face of change? In this episode, host Denise Cooper engages in an enlightening conversation with the savvy and experienced Deborah Snow Walsh. Deborah, a builder of organizations, DEI advocate, and a leading talent executive, discusses strategies for dealing with office politics and power plays. With her unique background in sales and talent acquisition for Fortune 200 companies and successful entrepreneurship, Deborah possesses a wealth of knowledge and insights that will guide listeners through the often challenging terrain of office dynamics. "The most valuable people are those who focus on finding a solution and executing on it. These are the people who bring others into the process, making them feel like they are part of the solution," says Snow-Walsh.This often requires having the courage to be disliked in the office. We know that some decisions are not popular, but they're right for

Are you intrigued by how personal and professional values intertwine and shape your actions? Then join Denise Cooper in this engaging episode as she chats with Pam Brooks Richards, a seasoned executive coach and expert in both personal and professional development.Denise and Pam examine the profound influence of aligning personal values with organizational ones, and how this alignment can translate into enhanced customer satisfaction. Pam emphasizes that workplace procedures should not be rigid constraints but rather guiding principles, inspiring employees to adapt and apply their own thinking. Brooks-Richards delves into the concept of 'brave spaces', a platform where employees can express their views and venture beyond the norm without fear of backlash, fostering a culture of innovation and creativity within the organization. The discussion takes a deeper turn towards psychological safety and the role of forgiveness in crafting a positive work environment. Pam underlines the necessity of clear boundaries, s

Are you navigating the often messy middle of growth in your mid-sized company? Are you searching for ways to get your teams to adopt new tech stacks, tackle old problems in new ways, and break down silos? Then this episode is just for you!Today, our host Denise Cooper sits down with Stefanie Krievins, the brains behind Stefanie Krievins & Co. Stefanie's company specializes in helping businesses that are innovating, scaling, and digitally transforming, but find themselves grappling with the complexities and challenges of mid-stage growth. With a diverse team of experienced coaches from a wide array of industries and roles, Stefanie Krievins & Co. offers an insightful intersection of self-leadership, team leadership, individual change readiness, and organizational change.In this engaging conversation, Denise and Stefanie explore the changing landscape of work-life balance, the evolution of business models, and the urgent need for a redefinition of leadership in our modern world. They dive deep into the

Have you ever wondered why some individuals in your workplace seem to be targeted with rumors, isolation, or even task manipulation? If so, you're not alone. In today's episode, we delve deep into an issue that's unfortunately widespread yet often swept under the rug – mobbing or workplace bullying.Host Denise Cooper is joined by the highly esteemed Organisational Psychologist, Zoe Fragou. Zoe brings a wealth of knowledge to this important topic, backed by her qualifications which include an MSc in Human Resources Management, a diploma in Business Coaching & Mentorship, and a Certificate in Agile Leadership. In this enlightening conversation, Zoe takes us through a deep dive on the topic of mobbing. Mobbing refers to the targetted act of trying to push someone out of an organization. Most often, this happens because a person thinks differently, they represent a change in the status quo, or they're being targetted for being part of a historically marginalized community. Fragou highlights that mobbing is n

Ever wondered how embracing the philosophy of "sharing is caring" could be the guiding force for leadership? Intrigued by how diversifying our understanding of entrepreneurship can be a powerful tool for social change? Then this conversation is for you.Our host Denise Cooper converses with Dani Bicknell, the Senior Manager of Programs at SecondMuse. Dani introduces herself as a woman, mother, lifelong learner, and a fervent advocate for inclusive economies. Her guiding mantra, "sharing is caring", transcends from a life lesson taught by her mother into her professional ethos, believing that sharing resources, time, and most importantly, power, is fundamental to effective leadership. Dani's unique approach contradicts traditional hierarchical leadership models, emphasizing a more collaborative and inclusive model.The conversation also unravels the often-overlooked aspects of entrepreneurship, a concept Dani believes has been unfairly "whitewashed" over the past few decades. She sheds light on the power and pot

Are you aware of how knowing queer history can empower everyone, not just queer individuals? In today's engaging episode, Denise Cooper, our host, has a thought-provoking conversation lined up with the guest, Lee Wind. A critically acclaimed author and fervent advocate of queer narratives, Lee has dedicated nearly two decades to penning stories that empower children and teenagers to be their authentic selves. His debut picture book, "RED AND GREEN AND BLUE AND WHITE," illustrated by Caldecott Medalist Paul O. Zelinsky, garnered five-starred trade reviews and was praised by The New York Times as "Beautiful… It’s a message the world can use, throughout the year." During the course of the conversation, Lee shares his valuable insights on the topic of queer allyship and intersectionality. He highlights how understanding and acknowledging sexual diversity can cause a significant shift in societal norms. Moreover, he emphasizes the importance of creating a safe and inclusive space in various settings, inc

Are you aware of the ripple effects that hiring the wrong talent can have on your organization? In this episode of Remarkable Leadership Lessons, our host, Denise Cooper, discusses the critical issue of the consequences of hiring the wrong talent with Deborah Snow Walsh, an authority on talent acquisition and management with an emphasis on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). Deborah Snow Walsh, who currently serves as the Head of Talent for Brown and Brown Insurance Company, shares insights drawn from her vast experience in talent acquisition, development, management, and more. As Denise Cooper introduces in the podcast, hiring the wrong person can lead to an array of problems such as a decrease in productivity, damaged relationships with customers, and potentially losing millions in revenue. For instance, Deborah highlights a scenario where the company hired a Vice President of Sales who turned out to be wrong for the role, causing significant harm to the business, to the extent of almost losing a $60 mi