What if the Golden Rule is holding your leadership back? In this episode, we challenge the age-old idea of "treat others the way you want to be treated" and introduce its more inclusive upgrade—the Platinum Rule: treat others the way they want to be treated. We unpack the difference between fairness and sameness, and explore why personalized leadership—though complex—is the key to building trust, belonging, and high-performing teams. We dive into the personalization paradox: how to treat people differently while staying grounded in your team’s shared values. You’ll hear the story of a well-meaning manager who thought they were being fair but was unintentionally alienating half their team. We also introduce a simple but powerful tool—the Personal Employee Handbook—that helps uncover unconscious assumptions and build stronger relationships. You’ll learn how to ask people what they need without making it weird or awkward, and why building trust requires a cycle of connection, failure, apology, and growth. This episode connects to our book, The Bridging Leader, and is part of our adaptability framework that’s been shown to increase trust by 81%. Preorder your copy of The Bridging Leader today and get access to exclusive tools that help you lead across differences with clarity, compassion, and courage https://bit.ly/4kd6pVc Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we will explore how great leaders adjust in real-time by reading the energy, context, and needs of the room. You’ll learn: - Why one-size-fits-all leadership fails - The “Zoom Out” technique - 5 cues to watch for before you speak - How to lead by following the room first Ready to lead with more insight and impact? 📘 Preorder The Bridging Leader for more tools on how to show up as an adaptive, inclusive, and purpose-driven leader: https://bit.ly/4kd6pVc Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Research shows our brains are wired to mirror others, helping us build trust in just seconds. In this episode, we’ll introduce you to The Mirror Game—a theater-based technique now embraced by neuroscientists and leadership coaches. Discover how one executive turned around a failing client relationship in just one meeting using this powerful approach. Plus: Preorder our new book, The Bridging Leader, for more science-backed strategies to lead with empathy, courage, and purpose.https://bit.ly/4kd6pVc Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Are You as Self-Aware as You Think? 95% of leaders think they're self-aware—but only 15% actually are. That means most leaders are leading with blind spots! The 3 types of fake self-awareness that quietly sabotage your leadership. The surprising “calendar test” that shows your real priorities (hint: it's not your mission statement) If you're ready to lead with clarity and impact, don’t miss this episode. Preorder The Bridging Leader now! ⁠https://bit.ly/4kd6pVc Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we’ll explore how personal rituals—unlike big, costly versions of self-care—will offer leaders simple, effective ways to prevent burnout and sustain long-term impact. You’ll discover the key differences between self-care and personal rituals, and why rituals that take just seconds and cost nothing will be more effective in the long run. We’ll also unpack the neuroscience behind habit formation—why willpower often fails, but rituals will create lasting change. Want to lead with more impact and less overwhelm? This episode will show you how. 🎧 And while you're building rituals that sustain you, don’t forget to preorder The Bridging Leader on the link below—a powerful new book that will help you lead with connection, clarity, and courage. https://bit.ly/4kd6pVc Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Research shows that up to 96% of employees engage in workplace gossip—it’s a natural part of how humans communicate. But not all gossip is harmful. Studies have found that positive gossip—sharing praise about someone when they're not around—can boost trust, morale, and team cohesion. Let's explore the concept of “Goss-up”: intentionally flipping gossip into a force for good. Instead of whispering criticisms, what if we choose to speak positively behind people’s backs? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What makes the difference between a team that simply follows the rules and one that goes above and beyond? In this episode, we explore the key factors that transform a group from compliant to truly committed. We dive into leadership styles, team culture, and what drives people to take ownership, show up with purpose, and stay engaged—especially when it matters most. Whether you lead a team or work on one, this conversation helps you spark deeper commitment right where you are. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, you’ll find out what BioSOPs are—simple routines for your body that will help you manage stress and stay calm during conflict. We’ll talk about how these small habits will slow you down, help you think clearly, and improve how you connect with others. You’ll explore breathing techniques, body language tools, phrases to use in tough moments, and a practice called The Mirror Game that will help you build trust through movement. By the end of the episode, you’ll walk away with practical ways to stay grounded and lead with more confidence—both at work and in your everyday life. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What if merging teams didn’t mean choosing one culture over another? In this episode, Deanna Singh and Justin Ponder dive into how Co-created Norms can help teams build a new, shared culture during mergers and acquisitions. You'll learn how to create psychological safety during change, bridge cultural divides, and lead with intention and inclusion. A quick, powerful listen for anyone guiding teams through transition. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Leading during uncertain times isn’t easy—but it’s also when courage matters most. In this episode, we talk about what it means to choose courage over fear, especially when the future feels unclear. We explore how to lead with honesty and vulnerability, stay grounded in your values, build trust when things feel unstable, and support your team through change. Whether you're leading a team or just trying to lead yourself, this episode will help you show up with more confidence and connection. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As AI transforms the workplace, the most powerful leadership tools remain deeply human. This episode explores how empathy, awareness, and the Bridging Leader Framework can help professionals lead with connection, stand out from machines, and thrive in an automated world. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In a world that glorifies hustle, stepping away can feel impossible—but what if a sabbatical is exactly what you need to grow? In this episode, Deanna Singh and Justin Ponder dive into the power of taking intentional breaks to reset, reflect, and realign with your purpose. Whether it’s a few weeks or several months, stepping back can lead to breakthroughs in both your personal and professional life. If you’ve ever felt stuck, burned out, or unsure of your next move, this conversation is for you. Tune in now to learn why rest isn’t a pause—it’s a strategy for success. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this session, we’ll dive into the essential strategies that set trailblazing leaders apart—bold decision-making, purpose-driven action, and the resilience to navigate uncertainty. Whether you’re leading a team, driving change in your industry, or building something new, this conversation will equip you with the mindset and tools to break new ground. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As we prepare to welcome the new year, discover how to harness the power of language to set the right tone for fresh starts. Explore mindful communication techniques to help you craft intentions, resolve conflicts, and open doors to new possibilities in the coming year. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With the holiday season approaching, prepare to transform potentially tense family gatherings into opportunities for meaningful connection. Discover techniques for navigating diverse viewpoints, addressing sensitive topics, and fostering a spirit of unity and understanding during your holiday celebrations. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In a time when political tensions run high, how do we keep the conversation civil? Learn practical strategies for engaging in respectful, productive dialogue across political divides, without losing your voice—or your values. Let’s navigate these complex times with grace and purpose. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Motivation is key to sustaining impactful work in diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). In the latest episode of the Uplifting Impact podcast, hosts Deanna Singh and Justin Ponder delve into the essential factors for staying motivated in DEI work. The conversation begins by emphasizing the importance of understanding personal boundaries. Deanna and Justin stress the need to recognize and respect individual limits to prevent burnout and sustain a long-term commitment to DEI efforts. They further explore the concept of creating safe spaces for dialogue within organizations. This involves cultivating an environment where open and honest conversations about DEI can take place, leading to greater understanding and empathy among team members. The hosts also highlight the significance of establishing a core compass to guide decision-making in DEI work. By aligning actions with meaningful values and principles, individuals and organizations can stay grounded and focused on their mission to make a positive impact. Moreover, the episode delves into the idea of developing "mini standard operating procedures" for when personal or organizational limits are reached. These practical strategies provide a framework for addressing challenges and recharging motivation within the context of DEI work. Finally, Deanna and Justin offer practical advice for sustaining well-being in DEI efforts, emphasizing self-care practices and community support as crucial components of long-term success and impact. Tune in to the latest episode of the Uplifting Impact podcast to gain valuable insights on staying motivated in DEI work. Share the episode with others who are passionate about creating positive change, and subscribe to the podcast for ongoing inspiration and guidance. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Harassment in the workplace remains a pervasive issue that demands urgent attention and action. In the latest episode of the Uplifting Impact podcast, host Justin Ponder delves deep into the critical topic of combating workplace harassment with guest Adrienne Lawrence. This enlightening conversation sheds light on the importance of active listening and extending unwavering support to individuals facing harassment in professional settings. Moreover, the discussion underscores the pivotal role played by employee resource groups in nurturing inclusivity and creating safe spaces within organizations. Adrienne emphasizes how fostering a culture of empathy and understanding is essential in combating harassment effectively. Listeners are guided to recognize their individual responsibility in cultivating a safe work environment for all and urged to prioritize empathy and support for victims of harassment. Join host Justin Ponder and guest Adrienne Lawrence in this transformative discussion by listening to the latest episode of the Uplifting Impact podcast. Share the episode with colleagues and friends to advance awareness on combating workplace harassment. Subscribe to the podcast for more empowering conversations that drive positive change. Together, let's create workplaces where all individuals feel safe, respected, and valued. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Unconscious bias in hiring can be a significant barrier to building diverse and inclusive workplaces. In the latest episode of the Uplifting Impact podcast, hosted by Deanna Singh, we dive into this crucial topic with guest Abe Taleb, a renowned DEI-focused hiring specialist. Listen in as we explore the impact of unconscious bias in the hiring process and discover practical strategies to address it. One key discussion point revolves around the importance of creating inclusive job descriptions. Every word matters in a job posting, as it sets the stage for who feels welcome and included. Abe shares insights on how to craft job descriptions that attract a diverse pool of candidates and eliminate potential bias. Another crucial aspect explored in this episode is the significance of treating hiring candidates respectfully. It's essential to respond to every application, regardless of the outcome. Abe shares valuable advice on the right way to communicate with candidates, fostering a positive experience and building stronger employer brands. Don't miss this conversation that will empower you to make a difference in your hiring practices. Listen to the latest episode of Uplifting Impact, share it with others who care about building inclusive workplaces, and subscribe to the podcast for more insightful conversations on diverse hiring and creating impactful change. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The healthcare industry plays a pivotal role in society, offering essential services to individuals from diverse backgrounds. In the latest episode of the Uplifting Impact podcast, host Deanna Singh and guest Robin Johnson delve into the nuances of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) within healthcare. Throughout the conversation, they highlight the challenges healthcare professionals face when navigating personal identities and stress the importance of self-reflection for achieving cultural transformation. Robin, a multiracial woman with a unique perspective, shares her journey from focusing on children's education to facilitating institutional change within the healthcare sector. The episode also emphasizes the critical role cultural competency plays in healthcare and the urgent need for systemic change. It emphasizes the importance of equipping all staff with the necessary skills to provide inclusive care, ensuring that every individual feels welcome and supported within the healthcare system. To gain valuable insights into the complexities of DEI within the healthcare industry and how it intersects with Robin's personal journey, tune in to this thought-provoking episode. Don't forget to share it with others and subscribe to the Uplifting Impact podcast to stay informed on future conversations that empower positive change. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices