How can cultural intelligence reshape the way leaders connect with diverse teams and foster inclusivity? This week I am joined by David Livermore, the renowned global thought leader and author of “Leading with Cultural Intelligence, the bestselling book on the topic.

As we navigate the nuances of cultural intelligence, we explore its application across various cultural contexts and the importance of the four core capabilities: drive, knowledge, strategy, and action. Learn how traditional leadership traits may shift when viewed through different cultural lenses, and how biases can affect self-assessment of cultural competence. We also delve into the generational dynamics within teams, emphasizing the delicate balance between authenticity and adaptability, to ensure everyone can thrive without sacrificing their identity.

Our episode takes a deep dive into the intricacies of cultural integration, particularly in global operations and mergers. David shares strategies for addressing politically sensitive topics and fostering open conversations that respect diverse perspectives. We navigate the challenges of remote work environments, where cultural differences are often magnified, and discuss how curiosity and openness are crucial for effective leadership. This episode reinforces the role of leaders in facilitating respectful and productive discussions, aligning with the mission of the Do Good to Lead Well podcast, to enhance understanding and growth through meaningful dialogue.

What You’ll Learn

- The inspiration behind David's best-selling book, "Leading with Cultural Intelligence."

- The four key components of Cultural Intelligence: motivation, knowledge, strategy, and action.

- The impact of generational dynamics and authenticity in team settings.

- Strategies for navigating cultural integration in global operations and mergers.

- The crucial role of curiosity and openness in developing Cultural Intelligence.

Podcast Timestamps

(00:00) – What is Cultural Intelligence?

(10:59) - Assessing Cultural Intelligence and Team Dynamics

(20:58) – Navigating the Interplay Between Diversity and Authenticity

(35:59) - Navigating Cultural Integration in Global Operations

(45:27) – Curiosity: The Foundational Upon Which to Build Cultural Intelligence

KEYWORDS

Positive Leadership, Cultural Intelligence, Diversity, Inclusion, Leading Global Teams, Authenticity, Generational Dynamics, Cultural Integration, Managing Remote Work, Curiosity, Openness, Respectful Conversations, Inclusive Leadership, Cultural Differences, Organizational Culture, Inclusive Environments, Managing Biases, Driving Positive Organizational Change, Leveraging Data, Unintended Consequences, Data-Driven Decisions, CEO Success

Despite its popularity and promise, unfortunately, there are numerous misconceptions about the definition and practice of psychological safety. Inspired by Amy Edmondson's recent article in Harvard Business Review, I dive into the real meaning of psychological safety—it's about cultivating a space where open debates and the free exchange of ideas thrive, not an environment in which conflict or critical feedback is avoided. Discover how focusing on challenging concepts, not individuals, can foster innovation, engagement, and inclusivity within your team. I unpack why conflict and vigorous debate are not only natural but essential components of a psychologically safe environment.

But who is responsible for this shared sense of safety? It's not just the leader's job. Drawing from my experiences as an executive coach, I emphasize the importance of bi-directional relationships within teams. Everyone plays a part in creating a safe space. Learn how implementing concrete behaviors and KPIs, while seeking external feedback, can help assess and improve psychological safety. Reflect on your own role and contributions to developing such an environment, not only in your professional sphere but in your personal life as well.

What You’ll Learn

- Debunking common myths about psychological safety.

- How to dynamically measure psychological safety within teams.

- The impact of psychological safety on innovation and inclusivity.

- The importance of shared responsibility in fostering psychological safety.

Podcast Timestamps

(00:00) – Misconceptions About Psychological Safety

(20:13) – Psychological Safety is a Two-Way Street

KEYWORDS

Positive Leadership, Psychological Safety, Constructive Conflict, High-Performing Teams, Open Debates, Free Exchange of Ideas, Combatting Misconceptions, Amy Edmondson, Navigating Conflict, Radical Candor, Collective Excellence, CEO Success

Dianna Fioravanti, the trailblazing president of Kuehne + Nagel Canada, joins us to unveil her transformative "REAL" leadership model—Resiliency, Empathy, Authenticity, and Legacy. As the first female President in her organization, Dianna shares her journey of breaking barriers, achieving gender parity on her executive team, and leveraging self-leadership in a post-COVID world. Get ready to be inspired as she details her strategies for flipping the switch from a fixed mindset to a proactive, growth-oriented approach, all while emphasizing the power of self-awareness and authenticity in effective leadership.

During our conversation, Dianna opens up about the importance of resilience and leading with authenticity, especially during challenging times. She shares personal anecdotes about overcoming imposter syndrome and highlights the necessity of creating a safe environment where team members are encouraged to fail forward and learn quickly. Discover how Dianna's empowering perspective on embracing one's uniqueness and building a supportive, innovative culture has not only driven organizational success but also empowered other women to pursue leadership roles.

Explore the critical role of emotional intelligence and personal connection as Dianna recounts her experiences fostering a positive team culture through trust-building and storytelling. Her insights into embedding diversity, equity, and inclusion within organizational values offer a blueprint for transformational change. Plus, she delves into the future of leadership with AI, sharing how embracing change with optimism can unlock new potentials for growth and efficiency. Join us for an enlightening episode packed with practical advice and leadership wisdom that will leave you ready to lead with heart and hustle.

What You’ll Learn

- Strategies for flipping the switch from a fixed mindset to a growth-oriented approach.

- Overcoming imposter syndrome.

- Creating a safe environment for team members to "fail forward" and learn quickly.

- Building a culture of trust, innovation, and emotional intelligence.

- Why the best executives lead with empathy

- Embracing AI and change for the future of leadership.

Podcast Timestamps

(00:00) – Keeping it R.E.A.L. – A Blueprint for Leadership Excellence

(06:52) - Staying Resilient and Authentic as Leaders

(17:40) - Building a Positive and Empowering Culture

(30:22) - Fostering Connection

(34:02) - Leading with Empathy

(46:39) – The Power of Stories

(51:20) - Navigating A.I. Transformation for Future Leadership

KEYWORDS

Positive Leadership, Resilience, Empathy, Authenticity, Legacy, Gender Parity, Self-Leadership, Growth Mindset, Self-awareness, Psychological Safety, Fail Forward, Fostering Innovation, Emotional Intelligence, Creating Personal Connection, Building Trust, The Power of Storytelling, Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, Artificial Intelligence, Optimism, Navigating Change, Positivity, Gratitude, CEO Success