What if the most powerful way to lead isn’t through logic or authority but through love and insightful vulnerability™? In this profound and heartwarming conversation, John Bates sits down with David Cunningham—communication expert, transformation leader, and longtime advocate for creating meaningful change. From his early work in child advocacy to leading transformational programs worldwide, David shares powerful stories and insights on how love, understanding, and communication can drive authentic leadership. John and David dive into: - The transformative lesson David’s mother taught him about patience and presence while caring for his stepfather with dementia—and how it influences John’s own journey with his mom. - A groundbreaking shift in child abuse prevention messaging that turned silence into thousands of calls for help—and how leaders can use the same principles to create connection and success in their organizations. - Why righteousness breeds argument—and how shifting from ‘being right’ to ‘being committed’ creates real change. - The concept of a ‘love footprint’—what are we leaving behind in our interactions? - How leaders can embrace insightful vulnerability™ to build emotional credibility™ and stronger human connections. - David’s new book, Your Love Does Matter: A Journey to New Consciousness and Expanding Your Love Footprint, and his mission to infuse leadership, politics, and society with love through the Love Matters Collaboration and Love Goes to the Capitol initiatives. This episode is packed with wisdom, real-life stories, and actionable insights for any leader looking to make a real impact—not by being the smartest in the room, but by leading with love.