Shows
Love and LeadershipWe're Taking a Baby Break - But We'll Be BackA brief update: we're taking a hiatus through the end of summer to welcome our newborn son. While we had hoped to have new content during parental leave, life had other plans. We want to reassure you that we're committed to the podcast and will return with fresh episodes soon enough. In the meantime, there are 43 episodes to explore, and we welcome content suggestions at loveandleadershippod@gmail.com.Podcast Website: www.loveandleadershippod.comInstagram: @loveleaderpodFollow us on LinkedIn!Kristen: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristenbsharkey/ Mike: https://www.linkedin.com/in...
2025-07-0202 min
Love and LeadershipLeadership Book Club: The Advice Trap by Michael Bungay StanierMike and Kristen dive deep into Michael Bungay Stanier's The Advice Trap, exploring why our natural instinct to give advice actually makes us worse leaders. This episode reveals the uncomfortable truth: your advice isn't as good as you think it is, and constantly offering solutions is damaging your team and overwhelming your schedule. The hosts get painfully honest about their own advice-giving habits while breaking down the three personas of the "advice monster" - Tell It, Save It, and Control It. They explore the psychological rewards we get from playing rescuer (#winsnotwins) and share practical strategies for staying curious...
2025-06-271h 23
Love and LeadershipLeadership Book Club: The Go-Giver Leader by Bob Burg and John David MannKristen and Mike explore The Go-Giver Leader by Bob Burg and John David Mann, a parable that flips traditional command-and-control leadership on its head. Through the story of Ben, an ambitious M&A executive who discovers that true influence comes from yielding rather than forcing, listeners will learn why the best leaders don't take leadership - they give it away. Mike brings his signature tangents, while Kristen keeps things grounded with practical insights. If you've ever wondered why some leaders inspire fierce loyalty while others barely get compliance, this episode reveals the five keys that separate legendary leaders from...
2025-05-291h 11
Love and LeadershipLeadership vs Management: Why You Need BothYou've probably heard "leadership versus management" debates many times, but Kristen and Mike break it down in a way that actually makes sense. This isn't about which one is better - spoiler alert: you need both. Instead, they explore how these distinct skill sets work together and why understanding the difference can transform your career. From Confucius to Navy SEALs, they share practical insights on when to lead people versus manage systems, common myths that trip up even experienced professionals, and why the best leaders toggle between both modes throughout their day. If you've ever wondered whether you're managing...
2025-05-1440 min
Love and LeadershipBuzzword Breakdown: Psychological SafetyKristen and Mike kick off their new Buzzword Breakdown series by tackling psychological safety, a term often referenced in leadership discussions without clear explanation. Created by Harvard professor Amy Edmondson, psychological safety is the belief that you won't be punished for speaking up with ideas, questions, or concerns. Research shows it's the #1 predictor of high-performing teams - more important than who's on the team. Despite its importance, many misconceptions exist around what psychological safety actually means and how to create it. Whether you lead a team or are part of one, understanding this concept can transform your workplace relationships...
2025-05-0728 min
Lead at the Top of Your GameHow Improv Skills Drive Exceptional Leadership with Kristen Brun SharkeyIN THIS EPISODE...Kristen Brun Sharkey, Founder and Executive Coach of Emboldify, highlights how improv transformed her confidence, creativity, and collaboration skills—key elements in Emboldify's AdLib Leader Model, which includes presence, authenticity, vulnerability, resilience, creativity, and supportiveness.Kristen explains how improv combats impostor syndrome, sharpens decision-making, and fosters innovation. She stresses the value of interactive, reflective coaching sessions and the power of courageous agility in uncertain times. Kristen also introduces her podcast, Love and Leadership, offering insights on adaptive leadership and bold, human-centered growth.------------Full show notes, guest bio, li...
2025-05-0629 min
Love and LeadershipENCORE: Leading Through Turbulent Times with Megan Romano, LMFTWe originally aired this episode in October prior to the election, and are sharing it again today because we find it more relevant than ever! Leaders today face a unique challenge: supporting their teams' mental wellness during a very high-stress period. In this episode, Kristen and Mike explore this timely topic with licensed therapist Megan Romano. They discuss how leaders can navigate the emotional minefield of turbulent political times, from recognizing their own triggers to creating a psychologically safe environment for their teams. Megan shares practical techniques for emotional regulation and emphasizes the importance of leaders modeling v...
2025-04-3054 min
Love and LeadershipLeadership Book Club: How To Win Friends and Influence People by Dale CarnegieKristen and Mike dive into Dale Carnegie's classic "How to Win Friends and Influence People" - a book that's approaching its 90th anniversary yet remains powerfully relevant. Mike reveals he's read (or rather, listened to) the book nearly 10 times, often before starting new jobs to ground himself in core leadership principles. The couple explores why this 1936 bestseller has sold over 30 million copies and continues to influence modern leadership thinking. Unlike most leadership books, Carnegie's approach focuses on genuine human connection rather than strategy or tactics. As you listen, you'll discover timeless principles that can transform not just your leadership...
2025-04-231h 32
Texas HRS1-E16 3.0 Speakers Series: Kristen Brun SharkeyConversation between DHRHTX 3.0 speaker Kristen Brun Sharkey and Rodney Lawson on how different it is to do a DisruptHR talk, Improv-erbs for leadership and more.You can learn more about Kristen right here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristenbsharkey
2025-04-1716 min
Love and LeadershipDecoding 2025's Top Workplace BuzzwordsKristen and Mike get into the fascinating world of workplace buzzwords that are trending in 2025. From "anti-perks" to "coffee badging," these terms reveal a lot about our current work culture and employee-employer relationships. The couple unpacks these buzzwords with their characteristic humor and practical insight, examining what each trend reveals about the evolving workplace. Whether you're dealing with "quiet hiring" at your organization or considering a "lazy girl job" for better work-life balance, this episode offers a revealing look at the language shaping our professional lives and what it means for leaders at all levels.Highlights:
2025-04-1742 min
Love and LeadershipLeading Multicultural Teams with Andrea FleischfresserKristen and Mike sit down with Andrea Fleischfresser, an executive coach with over 20 years of experience in HR and coaching. Andrea shares her journey from working in Italy to building her coaching practice in the US, where she discovered that cultural backgrounds significantly influence leadership styles and workplace dynamics. Through her work with clients from diverse cultures, Andrea has observed how deeply ingrained cultural norms affect everything from communication styles to feedback delivery and meeting participation. She explains why some leaders struggle when relocating to different countries - not because they lack skills, but because leadership expectations vary dramatically...
2025-04-0947 min
Love and LeadershipBuilding a Culture of Innovation That WorksIs your team more afraid of sharing a bad idea or missing out on a great one? In this episode, Mike and Kristen dig into what truly makes a culture innovative - and it's probably not what you think. Most companies claim to value innovation, but few actually design their culture to support it. Through a framework Kristen calls the "Improvation Matrix," they explore how openness to new ideas and commitment to execution create the foundation for genuine innovation. Plus, Mike takes a delightful detour through the Museum of Failure (featuring gems like Colgate Lasagna and Limeade Oreos) to...
2025-03-2742 min
Love and LeadershipLeadership Book Club: Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara, Part TwoIn the second part of their deep dive into Will Guidara's Unreasonable Hospitality, Mike and Kristen explore the leadership lessons that transformed Eleven Madison Park into the world's best restaurant. From breaking traditional fine dining rules to creating moments of surprise and delight for guests, Guidara's approach proves that true hospitality extends beyond simply serving excellent food. His philosophy challenges leaders to build strong teams, empower staff through trust, and create authentic connections with those they serve. Whether you lead a team of two or two hundred, this episode reveals how small, thoughtful gestures—what Guidara calls "grace notes"—can...
2025-03-191h 06
Love and LeadershipLeadership Book Club: Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara, Part OneIn this first part of a two-part series, Mike and Kristen dive into Unreasonable Hospitality by Will Guidara. While it might not seem like a traditional leadership book at first glance, it's packed with lessons for anyone serving customers or managing teams. Mike brings a unique perspective to this discussion, having spent 17 years in the restaurant industry before transitioning to senior living. He shares personal insights about the intense world of restaurants, where excellence isn't just encouraged—it's demanded every single day. The conversation weaves through Guidara's journey from young food runner to co-owner of one of the world's mo...
2025-03-1258 min
Love and LeadershipLeadership Lessons from Space with Shelli BrunswickKristen and Mike talk with Shelli Brunswick, a leader in the space industry whose career spans from the US Air Force to her current role as CEO of SB Global LLC. Shelli shares how space technology impacts our everyday lives in ways we don't even realize—from the smartphone in your pocket to the blueberries in your breakfast. She explains how leadership lessons from the space industry, particularly around risk management and innovation, can help professionals in any field. If you've ever wondered what space exploration has to do with your career or how space technology affects your daily li...
2025-03-0543 min
Love and LeadershipThe Truth About Motivating EmployeesWhat really motivates people at work? Is it money, recognition, or something deeper? In this episode, Kristen unpacks three of the most influential motivation theories that can transform how you lead your team. Mike adds his real-world perspective as they explore why fear can be a powerful motivator, why a raise alone won't keep your employees engaged long-term, and how trust plays a crucial role in whether your team will go the extra mile. Whether you're struggling with unmotivated team members or want to create a more energized workplace, this conversation offers practical insights that go beyond standard motivational...
2025-02-2641 min
Love and LeadershipImposter Syndrome: From Self-Doubt to Self-TrustInternational Women's Day is coming up on March 8th! In this special episode Kristen shares her 2024 IWD talk from Google's Women Techmakers event on tackling imposter syndrome through improv techniques. While 75% of women executives report experiencing imposter syndrome, Kristen reveals how her journey from tech leader to improv performer helped her develop practical tools to manage self-doubt. She breaks down the five types of "imposters" and shares specific exercises anyone can use to build confidence and reduce imposter syndrome's power. From embracing mistakes to finding comfort in discomfort, listeners will learn actionable strategies they can start using today to...
2025-02-1922 min
Love and LeadershipLeadership Book Club: The First 90 Days by Michael WatkinsEver wonder why some new leaders hit the ground running while others stumble? Kristen and Mike break down Michael Watkins' essential guide The First 90 Days - a book The Economist called "the onboarding bible." Whether you're stepping into your first leadership role or you're a seasoned executive making a change, this episode will help you avoid common pitfalls and set yourself up for success. Mike shares his recent experience applying these principles in his new role, while Kristen draws on her years of using this framework in executive coaching. Plus, some late-night recording session humor and a heated debate...
2025-02-131h 39
Love and LeadershipPeople-First Leadership with Marketing Exec Candice HahnEver wonder why some leaders seem to effortlessly build thriving teams while others struggle with constant turnover? In this episode, guest Candice Hahn, a veteran marketing agency executive with over 25 years of experience, shares her refreshing take on leadership in the fast-paced agency world. Candice opens up about why working for good people has been the guiding force in her career and reveals her unique approach to developing talent. She explains why there's "no such thing as a marketing emergency" and how this mindset shapes the way she leads. Whether you're managing a team or aspiring to move up...
2025-02-0550 min
Love and LeadershipLet’s Get Critical: How to Receive Tough FeedbackMost leaders know feedback is essential for growth, but let's be honest - receiving it can be uncomfortable, even painful. In this episode, Kristen and Mike get real about their own struggles with feedback and share practical strategies to make the process less daunting. Whether you're dealing with a 360 review or an unexpected comment from a team member, you'll learn how to stay composed, listen effectively, and use feedback to become a stronger leader. Plus, discover why comparing different feedback styles to cookies might forever change how you think about giving and receiving feedback.Download your free...
2025-01-2939 min
Love and LeadershipLeadership Book Club: Never Split the Difference by Chris VossMike and Kristen break down Chris Voss's game-changing book on negotiation, Never Split the Difference. As a former FBI hostage negotiator, Voss brings street-smart tactics that work in real-world situations, not just theory. The couple explores how these techniques—from using the late-night FM DJ voice to mastering the power of "no"—can transform both business and personal interactions. Mike shares his experience applying these methods in restaurant management, while Kristen connects the dots between negotiation tactics and improv techniques. They unpack why getting to "yes" isn't always the goal and how understanding your negotiating style (are you an Acco...
2025-01-221h 26
Love and LeadershipWhy Nice Is Not Enough with Amira Barger, EVP of DEI at EdelmanWhat does it really mean to be an ally in today's workplace? For Amira Barger, Executive Vice President of DEI Advisory and Health Communications at Edelman, it's about going beyond being "nice." Growing up as the daughter of missionaries in Guam, Amira learned early on about meeting people's needs and building community. Now, she's challenging leaders to move past surface-level actions and ask the critical question: "What do you need to show up as your chosen self?" In this powerful conversation, Amira shares why "nice is not the measure" when it comes to creating real change, how behavioral communication...
2025-01-0854 min
Bringing the Human back to Human Resources209. Beyond the Boardroom: Using Play and Improv to Drive Innovation ft. Kristen Brun SharkeyIn this episode of the Bringing the Human back to Human Resources podcast, Traci speaks with Kristen Brun Sharkey about building a culture of innovation and effective leadership strategies.
Guest: Kristen Brun Sharkey
Kristen Brun Sharkey is the Founder and CEO of Emboldify, an executive coach, facilitator, and speaker with 15 years of experience leading teams in advertising, tech, and marketing at companies from early-stage startups to Fortune 100s. She helps leaders advance their careers, make better decisions, execute change effectively, develop innovative solutions, and successfully engage their teams. Her unique approach combines...
2025-01-0731 min
Love and LeadershipENCORE: The New Playbook for Leadership PresenceLove and Leadership is taking a break this week, but we're re-airing one of our favorite early episodes to help you set the tone for the new year! In this episode, Kristen and Mike dive into the evolving concept of leadership presence. They explore how traditional notions of executive presence are shifting, with a growing emphasis on emotional intelligence, authenticity, and inclusivity. Drawing from Kristen's improv-inspired leadership model, they discuss practical ways to enhance awareness, authenticity, and connection in leadership roles. This episode gives leaders at all levels practical tips to build a leadership style that works well in...
2025-01-0154 min
Love and LeadershipDesign Your Best 2025: A Personal Annual Review ProcessAs the year winds down, Kristen shares her tried-and-tested process for conducting a personal annual review - a practice she's refined over 15 years. Whether you're reflecting on your career progression or contemplating personal growth, this episode offers a straightforward approach to evaluating your year and setting meaningful goals for 2025. Plus, Mike shares his perspective on performance reviews from his executive experience and why the Marine Corps' evaluation system stands out as a model of excellence.Want to make 2025 your best year yet? Download Kristen's free 20-page Personal Annual Review workbook and follow along with this episode. The...
2024-12-2537 min
Love and LeadershipLeadership Book Club: Start with Why by Simon SinekWhat makes some organizations inspire fierce loyalty while others just seem to exist? In this episode, Kristen and Mike dive into Simon Sinek's groundbreaking book "Start With Why," exploring how truly great leaders and companies create lasting success by focusing on their purpose rather than just their products. Through compelling examples from Apple to Martin Luther King Jr., they break down why people don't buy what you do - they buy why you do it. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or trying to make a bigger impact, this episode reveals how starting with your "why" can...
2024-12-181h 24
Love and LeadershipBuilding Leadership Teams That Get ResultsEver wonder what truly makes a great leadership team tick? Kristen shares insights from her recent team coaching certification program and breaks down the research-backed conditions that create outstanding teams. Drawing from Ruth Wageman and Richard Hackman's work on senior leadership teams, Mike and Kristen explore how the setup of a team accounts for 60% of its eventual success - far more than what happens once the team is already working together. Through analogies to orchestras and kitchens, they unpack what makes teams truly interdependent and how leaders can create the right conditions for their teams to thrive.
2024-12-1148 min
Love and LeadershipLeading with Care Through Uncertain Times with Tushar Pandit, CPO at SPINSLeadership isn't just about hitting the numbers - it's about how you get there. Through candid stories from his 25+ years in human resources, Chief People Officer Tushar Pandit challenges common misconceptions about workplace culture and HR. He explains why foosball tables and kombucha aren't company values (though he enjoys kombucha), why measuring employee engagement isn't enough, and what it really takes to build an organization where people want to stay and grow. This conversation dives into why the "Chief People and Culture Officer" title misses the mark, how to lead through constant change, and what it means to truly...
2024-12-0449 min
Love and LeadershipLeadership Book Club: It’s Your Ship by Captain Michael AbrashoffWhen 36-year-old Mike Abrashoff took command of the USS Benfold in 1997, he faced a demoralized crew that openly jeered their departing captain. Instead of sticking with the Navy's traditional command-and-control leadership style, Abrashoff decided to revolutionize how he led. His radical approach? Trust his crew, listen to their ideas, and make their lives better. The results were unprecedented - taking a ship with low morale and poor performance and transforming it into what many considered the best damn ship in the Navy. In this episode, Mike and Kristen break down Abrashoff's leadership philosophy and how his innovative approaches from 25...
2024-11-271h 26
Love and LeadershipHow Great Leaders Make Smart DecisionsWhat if you could make better decisions with less stress? Kristen and Mike go deep into the science of decision-making, exploring why it's such a crucial leadership skill and sharing practical frameworks to help you decide with confidence. They reveal surprising research showing that leaders make around 35,000 decisions daily and that 85% of leaders have experienced decision distress in the past year. But there's hope - by understanding cognitive biases, using structured processes, and learning when to delegate decisions, you can dramatically improve your decision-making abilities. Whether you're struggling with decision fatigue or want to help your team make better...
2024-11-2045 min
LeadovationKristen Brun Sharkey: Using Improv to Drive Real Change in Leadership and InnovationAbout Kristen Brun Sharkey:Kristen Brun Sharkey is an executive coach and facilitator who spent 15 years leading teams in ad tech and marketing at major companies, including Yahoo, Verizon, and Hearst. She holds a Master’s degree in Management, Strategy, and Leadership from Michigan State University and is an ICF-credentialed coach. Through her company, Emboldify, Kristen leverages techniques and principles from improv theatre to enhance leadership skills, helping leaders at all levels improve their decision-making, drive innovation, and execute effective change. In this episode, Dean Newlund and Kristen Brun Sharkey discuss:Using imp...
2024-11-1928 min
Love and Leadership7 Unconventional Leadership Principles with Hubspot’s Rebecca YangIn this guest interview episode, Rebecca Yang, Director of Engineering at HubSpot, shares her unconventional journey to tech leadership and reveals seven uncommon leadership principles that have shaped her success. From her early days in client services to leading a 50+ person engineering team, Rebecca opens up about how embracing authenticity and overcoming personal challenges has made her a more effective leader. Her refreshing take on leadership - including why micromanagement isn't always bad and why you shouldn't trust your gut with feedback - offers valuable insights for leaders at all levels.About Rebecca:Rebecca...
2024-11-1348 min
Love and LeadershipLeadership Book Club: What Got You Here Won’t Get You There by Marshall GoldsmithKristen and Mike break down Marshall Goldsmith's influential book "What Got You Here Won't Get You There." While they praise the practical advice and behavioral frameworks in the book, they also challenge some of its core assumptions and discuss how leadership development has evolved since its 2007 publication. Through their analysis, they reveal how seemingly small behavioral habits can make or break a leader's effectiveness - and why changing these habits requires more than just willpower. The episode offers both practical tips for behavior change and a thoughtful critique of traditional executive coaching approaches, making it valuable for anyone looking...
2024-11-061h 22
Love and LeadershipThe 6 Core Skills of Emotional IntelligenceWhat's the real difference between a manager and a leader? While technical skills and industry knowledge matter, emotional intelligence often makes or breaks leadership effectiveness. In this episode, Kristen breaks down the Genos six key competencies of emotional intelligence and how they show up in leadership, while Mike adds his perspective (using an enlightening feelings wheel). Through practical examples and even a few Star Trek references, they explore how emotional intelligence impacts everything from decision-making to team performance. Whether you've heard of EI before or this is all new territory, you'll walk away understanding exactly what emotional intelligence looks...
2024-10-3050 min
Love and LeadershipLeadership Book Club: Dare to Lead by Brené Brown, Part TwoIn part two of their deep dive into Brené Brown's Dare to Lead, Kristen and Mike explore shame, empathy, and trust through both personal and professional lenses. Through vulnerable stories - including Mike's nerve-wracking experience of saying "I love you" first and Kristen's college final exam mishap - they break down how shame shows up in leadership and what to do about it. The episode unpacks practical frameworks for building trust, developing emotional literacy, and becoming more resilient. For leaders looking to create psychologically safe environments where their teams can take risks and bounce back from failure, this episode o...
2024-10-231h 25
Love and LeadershipLeading Through Election Stress with Megan Romano, LMFTAs the 2024 US presidential election looms, leaders face a unique challenge: supporting their teams' mental wellness during a high-stress period. In this episode, Kristen and Mike explore this timely topic with licensed therapist Megan Romano. They discuss how leaders can navigate the emotional minefield of election season, from recognizing their own triggers to creating a psychologically safe environment for their teams. Megan shares practical techniques for emotional regulation and emphasizes the importance of leaders modeling vulnerability and self-care. This episode offers invaluable insights on how to lead with empathy and resilience during turbulent times.About Megan:
2024-10-1653 min
Love and LeadershipLeadership Book Club: Dare to Lead by Brené Brown, Part OneJoin Kristen and Mike as they explore the world of courageous leadership through Brené Brown's groundbreaking book Dare to Lead. In this first part of a two-episode series, they unpack the myths surrounding vulnerability, the power of clear communication, and the importance of embracing discomfort in leadership. From discussing the "armory" we use to protect ourselves to examining the differences between armored and daring leadership styles, this episode offers practical insights for leaders at all levels. Whether you're struggling with perfectionism, battling imposter syndrome, or simply looking to lead with more authenticity, this conversation will challenge you to rethink y...
2024-10-091h 16
Love and LeadershipBreaking Barriers and Fostering Inclusion with Melissa Jurkoic, CXO at ThynkKristen sits down with Melissa Jurkoic, a tech industry veteran and champion for diversity in leadership. Melissa's journey from junior software engineer to Chief Experience Officer is a testament to the power of resilience and authenticity in leadership. She shares candid insights on navigating male-dominated spaces, the importance of sponsorship, and why being your genuine self is crucial for effective leadership. Melissa's approach to "boundaried vulnerability" offers a fresh perspective on balancing openness with professionalism. This conversation will challenge you to rethink your approach to leadership and inspire you to create more inclusive, transparent work environments....
2024-10-0257 min
Love and LeadershipHow to Give Difficult Feedback EffectivelyGiving difficult feedback is a crucial skill for leaders, but it's often dreaded. In this episode of Love and Leadership, Kristen and Mike Sharkey dive into the art of delivering constructive criticism effectively. They explore why the traditional "feedback sandwich" falls short and introduce a more impactful approach. Drawing from their personal experiences and research, they offer practical strategies to make feedback conversations more productive and less anxiety-inducing for both parties. Whether you're a new manager or a seasoned executive, this episode will equip you with tools to transform challenging conversations into opportunities for growth and stronger relationships with...
2024-09-2549 min
Love and LeadershipLeadership Book Club: The Coaching Habit by Michael Bungay StanierKristen and Mike dive into The Coaching Habit by Michael Bungay Stanier, a book that's transforming how leaders approach coaching. They unpack the seven essential questions that can revolutionize your leadership style, making you more effective and less overwhelmed. From learning to tame your "advice monster" to understanding the neuroscience behind great coaching, this episode is packed with practical insights. Whether you're drowning in an over-dependent team or struggling to focus on what really matters, Kristen and Mike offer a fresh perspective on how to lead with curiosity and empower your team. Plus, they share personal anecdotes and challenges...
2024-09-181h 04
Love and LeadershipThe Power of Authentic Leadership with Nicole Mashburn, CEO of Villa MarinIn this episode, Kristen and Mike sit down with Nicole Mashburn, CEO of Villa Marin, a Continuing Care Retirement Community in Northern California. Nicole shares her journey into senior living leadership and her philosophy on authentic leadership. With over 20 years of experience, Nicole offers valuable insights on fostering a collaborative team environment, handling leadership challenges, and the importance of self-awareness. She discusses how her upbringing shaped her leadership style and emphasizes the power of vulnerability and empathy in the workplace. Listeners will gain practical advice on how to lead authentically, create a positive work culture, and find purpose in...
2024-09-1147 min
Love and Leadership10 Ways Improv Makes You a Better LeaderThink improv is just for comedians and actors? Think again. In this episode, Kristen and Mike explore how the skills from improv theatre can actually make you a better leader. Kristen shares her experience using improv techniques in executive coaching, showing how these seemingly unrelated worlds collide in powerful ways. They discuss how improv can help you think on your feet, boost your confidence, and even make better decisions under pressure. You'll hear why tech CEOs and hospitality execs alike are turning to improv to sharpen their leadership skills. Whether you're struggling with perfectionism, dreading difficult conversations, or just...
2024-09-0447 min
Love and LeadershipLeadership Book Club: Extreme Ownership by Jocko WillinkIs extreme ownership the key to unlocking your leadership potential? In this episode of Love and Leadership, Kristen and Mike dive into "Extreme Ownership" by Jocko Willink and Leif Babin, a book that's been transformative for Mike's leadership journey. They break down the core principles of this Navy SEAL-inspired approach to leadership, discussing how taking full responsibility for everything in your world can lead to better decision-making and team performance. Kristen also shares some of her initial skepticism and the challenges she faced with the book's military-heavy narrative. This episode offers practical insights on how to apply extreme ownership...
2024-08-281h 02
Love and LeadershipA Leader’s Guide to Imposter SyndromeEver felt like a fraud despite your accomplishments? You're not alone. In this episode, Kristen and Mike dive into the pervasive phenomenon of imposter syndrome. They explore how it affects people across industries and experience levels, debunking the myth that it's just a "women's issue." The hosts share personal experiences, discuss the five types of imposters, and offer practical strategies to combat those nagging self-doubts. Whether you're a seasoned executive or rising star, this episode provides valuable insights to help you recognize your true worth and lead with confidence. Plus, find out why we should all strive to be...
2024-08-2145 min
Love and LeadershipTransforming Workplace Culture with Gianna Driver, CPO at LatticeWhat does it really take to build a thriving workplace culture? In this episode, Kristen and Mike sit down with Gianna Driver, the new Chief People Officer at Lattice, to explore the human side of leadership. From her unconventional path into HR to her insights on transforming company cultures, Gianna shares candid stories and practical wisdom that will challenge how you think about work. She includes a team meeting tactic that transforms how people view mistakes and gives practical tips for having tough conversations with senior leaders. No matter where you are in your career, this down-to-earth discussion will...
2024-08-1449 min
Love and LeadershipThe New Playbook for Leadership PresenceIn this episode of Love and Leadership, Kristen and Mike dive into the evolving concept of leadership presence. They explore how traditional notions of executive presence are shifting, with a growing emphasis on emotional intelligence, authenticity, and inclusivity. Drawing from Kristen's improv-inspired leadership model, the hosts discuss practical ways to enhance awareness, authenticity, and connection in leadership roles. This episode gives leaders at all levels practical tips to build a leadership style that works well in today's work world. Listeners will come away with actionable strategies to boost their leadership effectiveness and create more meaningful connections with their teams.
2024-08-0750 min
Love and LeadershipLeadership Book Club: Boundaries for Leaders by Dr. Henry CloudIn this episode of Love and Leadership, Kristen and Mike dive into Boundaries for Leaders by Dr. Henry Cloud, a book that's been transformative for both of their leadership journeys. They explore how setting the right boundaries can create an environment where people's brains can truly thrive, leading to better results and more fulfilled teams. From understanding the power of neuroscience in leadership to combating learned helplessness, this episode is packed with practical insights that can help leaders at all levels. Whether you're struggling with overwhelm or looking to create a more positive work culture, Kristen and Mike's discussion...
2024-08-071h 03
Love and LeadershipIntroduction: Is Leadership a Learned Skill?In this inaugural episode of Love and Leadership, hosts Kristen Brun Sharkey and Mike Sharkey introduce themselves and their unique approach to leadership development. Can leadership truly be learned, or are great leaders born? With backgrounds spanning from tech and improv to hospitality and classical music, Kristen and Mike offer fresh perspectives on this age-old question. They dive into their personal leadership philosophies, discussing concepts like “extreme ownership” and emotional intelligence. Whether you're a seasoned executive or an aspiring leader, this episode promises practical insights to help you level up your leadership game. Plus, get a sneak peek...
2024-08-0733 minLove and LeadershipLove and Leadership Podcast TrailerCo-hosts Kristen Brun Sharkey and Mike Sharkey introduce their podcast Love and Leadership, which offers a unique blend of professional insight and personal chemistry. This leadership-focused show brings together Kristen's expertise as a leadership coach and facilitator with Mike's extensive experience as a senior living and hospitality executive. The couple, self-proclaimed "leadership nerds," share their past and present experiences, analyze influential leadership books, and conduct thought-provoking interviews with inspiring leaders and experts. Whether you're a seasoned executive or an emerging leader, Love and Leadership provides valuable insights to help you lead with both your head and your heart. With...
2024-07-1801 min
The Big Wedding Planning Podcast#395 Real Wedding Retrospective: A Wedding in the MountainsIn this episode, we delve into Kristen and Michael's unique mountain wedding. We cover everything from tackling altitude challenges and budget constraints to personalizing their big day amidst nature. Listen for insights on venue selection, DIY decor strategies, and the couple's thoughtful approach to honoring a late family member.Click HERE to become a premium subscriber and unlock all of the amazingness:
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2024-01-241h 08