Leadership requires communication, because as famed author and leadership mentor Margaret J. Wheatley once said, “I believe we can change the world if we start listening to one another again.  Simple, honest, human conversation.”

The importance of communication is featured in almost every leadership style and principle because leaders have to be able to communicate everything, to everyone, all the time.

And this ability isn’t only about relaying orders and directives, it’s about being able to hear and understandthe needs and desires of your team and the organization.

The challenge for emerging leaders is that they are often unaware of how to adjust their communication style to hear and be heard, creating tension, paranoia, and confusion amongst the group.

Join us as Jason "the Donk" Donkersgoed hijacks this episode and plays host to Stacie Calder, MBA, and Executive Vice-President (North American Distribution & Marketing) for Conquest Planning Incorporated, where we will unlock the secrets of effective communication. Join us as we journey through Stacey's transformation from a small-town dreamer to a leader, where communication has been a cornerstone of her success. Discover how the art of listening extends beyond words to include body language and personal experiences, fostering genuine understanding and alignment in both personal and professional realms.

Explore the transformative power of vulnerability in communication, especially when delivering honest feedback. Stacey reflects on personal experiences and cultural nuances, highlighting the importance of Brene Brown's mantra, "clear is kind." We delve into the challenges of self-communication, discussing how reshaping internal dialogues can empower leadership. Through personal anecdotes, we spotlight how empathetic feedback, and emotional intelligence can lead to more authentic and effective interactions.
Learn how self-talk, balanced living, and accountability play a pivotal role in successful communication. We discuss strategies for maintaining wellness and overcoming mental barriers, including the use of mantras and meditation. Dive into the dynamics of team communication, where humility and empathy foster a collaborative environment. Whether it's handling impulse control or managing sarcasm, this episode is a compelling testament to the profound impact of communication in leadership and life. Join us for an inspiring discussion filled with insights and practical advice that can transform your communication skillset.

Dialogue is the foundation of effective leadership, encompassing understanding, vulnerability, and accountability. Stacey Calder shares practical insights on how to enhance communication, emphasizing the importance of self-talk and fostering teamwork to build trust.

In this special Bonus episode, Scott and I will talk about how we can be the most extraordinary leaders possible.

The best part of being a podcast host is meeting extraordinary people with extraordinary ideas with extraordinary methods to help other people be, well, extraordinary.

MGen (Ret’d) Scott Clancy is one of these people. His book, Developing Coaching Leaders: The Fundamentals and Techniques that Make Leaders Extraordinary, guides leaders to help everyone be dynamic. 

In this special Bonus episode, Scott and I will talk about how we can be the most extraordinary leaders possible.

I’m so excited to have a conversation with Necole Belanger, Retired Command Chief Warrant Officer in the Royal Canadian Air Force. Necole’s book, Pride Amid Prejudice, where Necole offers her story.

This is a story about pride, frustration, happiness, anger, shame, joy, prejudice. Necole and I will talk about how her desire to serve her country, to make an institutional difference, led to her sacrificing her values, to allowing herself be silenced, all for the desire to make a difference.