75 episodes

Are you the strongest leader you can possibly be? And if not, ever wonder what other elite leaders know and do that you aren’t, which may be stopping you from bringing your A+ game?

The Lead at the Top of Your Game Podcast celebrates the ingenuity, resilience and execution excellence of firebrand leaders who are doing big things in their profession or industry by boldly dancing on the edge and playing by their own rules.

Organizational psychologist & leadership tactics strategist, Karan Ferrell-Rhodes, interviews the persons at the forefront of leading the transformative ideas, tactical maneuvers and gut-wrenching pivots behind the People, Business & Leadership strategies which are helping individuals do their best work and organizations to become future-ready, today.

Listen in, as she cracks open their playbooks and compares them with her research on the top seven leadership tactics of the world’s most successful leaders. Join us to take advantage of gaining an insider’s look into the ups, downs and lessons learned from these thriving A+ leaders, so that you too can become a stronger leader who masters any “game of expertise” in which you choose to play.

The Lead at the Top of Your Game podcast is brought to you by Shockingly Different Leadership, the leader in on-demand People, Talent Development & Organizational Effectiveness professional services, all designed to up-level leader capability and optimize workforces to do their best work.

Learn more at http://LeadYourGamePodcast.com or https://shockinglydifferent.com/podcast. Be sure to SUBSCRIBE to the show on your favorite podcast app and leave a 5-star review.

Lead at the Top of Your Game Karan Ferrell-Rhodes and Shockingly Different Leadership

    • Business
    • 5.0 • 26 Ratings

Are you the strongest leader you can possibly be? And if not, ever wonder what other elite leaders know and do that you aren’t, which may be stopping you from bringing your A+ game?

The Lead at the Top of Your Game Podcast celebrates the ingenuity, resilience and execution excellence of firebrand leaders who are doing big things in their profession or industry by boldly dancing on the edge and playing by their own rules.

Organizational psychologist & leadership tactics strategist, Karan Ferrell-Rhodes, interviews the persons at the forefront of leading the transformative ideas, tactical maneuvers and gut-wrenching pivots behind the People, Business & Leadership strategies which are helping individuals do their best work and organizations to become future-ready, today.

Listen in, as she cracks open their playbooks and compares them with her research on the top seven leadership tactics of the world’s most successful leaders. Join us to take advantage of gaining an insider’s look into the ups, downs and lessons learned from these thriving A+ leaders, so that you too can become a stronger leader who masters any “game of expertise” in which you choose to play.

The Lead at the Top of Your Game podcast is brought to you by Shockingly Different Leadership, the leader in on-demand People, Talent Development & Organizational Effectiveness professional services, all designed to up-level leader capability and optimize workforces to do their best work.

Learn more at http://LeadYourGamePodcast.com or https://shockinglydifferent.com/podcast. Be sure to SUBSCRIBE to the show on your favorite podcast app and leave a 5-star review.

    Decreasing the Digital Accessibility Divide with Alwar Pillai

    Decreasing the Digital Accessibility Divide with Alwar Pillai

    IN THIS EPISODE...
    Join us for this fascinating conversation about empowering people with disabilities and accessibility technology's pivotal role in shaping inclusive digital experiences.
    Meet Alwar Pillai, the CEO of Fable, a pioneering accessibility platform dedicated to helping enterprises create inclusive digital products. With a genuine commitment to inclusive product development, Alwar leads Fable in its mission to empower individuals with disabilities and foster a culture of accessibility. In this episode, we explore the evolving landscape of digital inclusion, from redefining accessibility as a business asset to uncovering Fable's visionary approach.
    ------------
    Full show notes, links to resources mentioned, and other compelling episodes can be found at http://LeadYourGamePodcast.com. (Click the magnifying icon at the top right and type “Alwar”)
    Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!
    ------------
    JUST FOR YOU: Increase your leadership acumen by identifying your personal Leadership Trigger. Take my free my free quiz and instantly receive your 5-page report.
    Need to up-level your workforce or execute strategic People initiatives? https://shockinglydifferent.com/contact or tweet @KaranRhodes.
    -------------
    ABOUT ALWAR PILLAI:With a background in UX Design and a Masters of Inclusive Design from OCAD University, Alwar's expertise lies in crafting digital solutions that cater to diverse user needs. Before founding Fable, she honed her skills at the Ontario Ministry of Education and as the Manager of Accessibility at Rogers Communications.
    Alwar's passion for inclusive product development led her to establish Fable Tech Labs, an online platform facilitating collaboration between researchers, designers, developers, and individuals with disabilities. Through Fable, she strives to streamline the process of creating accessible digital products, empowering teams to effectively engage with diverse user perspectives.
    Recognized as one of the 50 innovators making a positive impact by the Globe and Mail, Alwar's dedication to accessibility has garnered widespread acclaim. Fable Technology's inclusion in the DMZ's Incubator program in 2020 further solidifies its position as a driving force in the accessibility technology landscape.
    ------------
    WHAT TO LISTEN FOR:1.    How can companies transition accessibility from compliance to a business asset?
    2.    What are the critical elements of an empathy-driven approach to accessibility in product development?
    3.    How can companies integrate accessibility into product development across stages?
    4.    What role do tools and technology play in ensuring digital product accessibility?
    5.    What accessibility technology trends are companies missing or adopting?
    6.    How does Fable plan to expand its impact, especially within the disabled community?
    7.    Will Fable extend services to small and medium-sized businesses or focus on enterprises?
    8.    How can one balance work-life demands as a startup leader and stay focused?
    ------------
    FEATURED TIMESTAMPS:[04:41] Alwar' Story
    [06:59] Fable: Bridging the Digital Accessibility Divide
    [11:52] Maturing...

    • 32 min
    Agile Leadership in the Digital Age with Manisha Dhawan

    Agile Leadership in the Digital Age with Manisha Dhawan

    IN THIS EPISODE...
    Meet Manisha Dhawan, founder and CEO of MPath Coaching, who is recognized for her expertise in leadership development and change management. With over two decades of diverse experience spanning various industries and roles, Manisha has honed her skills and insights to empower individuals and organizations. Also, she is the author of "The Digital Agile Leader," which empowers aspiring leaders to thrive in an ever-evolving digital landscape.
    In this episode, Manisha shares her journey of resilience, growth, and leadership evolution. From witnessing the humble beginnings of a family business to navigating career pivots and eventually founding her venture, she offers candid insights into the challenges and triumphs that shaped her path. Exploring adaptability, stakeholder savvy, and emotional intelligence, Manisha delves into the importance of leading authentically and finding balance amidst leadership demands. With engaging anecdotes and practical tips, she inspires listeners to embrace change, cultivate self-awareness, and strive for excellence in their leadership journeys.
    ------------
    Full show notes, links to resources mentioned, and other compelling episodes can be found at http://LeadYourGamePodcast.com. (Click the magnifying icon at the top right and type “Manisha”)
    Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!
    ------------
    JUST FOR YOU: Increase your leadership acumen by identifying your personal Leadership Trigger. Take my free my free quiz and instantly receive your 5-page report.
    Need to up-level your workforce or execute strategic People initiatives? https://shockinglydifferent.com/contact or tweet @KaranRhodes.
    -------------
    ABOUT MANISHA DHAWAN:Manisha's journey commenced within her family business, Applied Membranes, where she gained comprehensive exposure across all operational functions. Transitioning to roles at esteemed firms like PwC, Deloitte, and Slalom, Manisha spearheaded global digital transformation endeavors, notably contributing to Taco Bell's pioneering digital initiatives.
    Also, as the founder of MPath Coaching, Manisha leverages her wealth of experience to nurture leadership capabilities and foster high-performance team dynamics. Her bespoke coaching and training programs, tailored to individual and organizational needs, cover an array of vital subjects such as emotional intelligence, agility, and effective communication.
    Manisha's academic foundation includes a Bachelor of Science degree in Chemistry and an MBA from UC Irvine, complemented by her coaching certification from iPEC. Additionally, she holds an EverythingDiSC authorized partner accreditation and certifications in Emotional Intelligence and Design Thinking, further enriching her toolkit for transformative coaching and leadership development.
    ------------
    WHAT TO LISTEN FOR:1.    How should individuals and organizations approach digital transformations with care and responsibility?
    2.    What are the reasons behind people's resistance to change?
    3.    What are the strategies to implement change effectively?
    4.    How can one handle a challenging situation with a team member?
    5.    Why is stakeholder savvy important in leadership?
    6.    How can leaders prioritize self-care

    • 33 min
    Using Customer-centric Leadership to Accelerate Brand Loyalty with Chris Hood

    Using Customer-centric Leadership to Accelerate Brand Loyalty with Chris Hood

    IN THIS EPISODE...
    In customer-centric leadership, every decision reverberates with the echo of customer desires, and every strategic move is a testament to their satisfaction. Here, brand loyalty isn't merely a target; it naturally blossoms as a result.
    In this episode, we delve into how this transformative approach not only fosters loyalty but also propels brands to unprecedented heights of success, featuring insights from industry expert Chris Hood. With over 35 years of experience, Chris is a prominent figure in fostering customer-centric environments by seamlessly merging customer success with digital strategy. His expertise is underscored by his acclaimed book 'Customer Transformation,' earning him a place among the Top 30 Customer Experience Gurus in 2024.
    ------------
    Full show notes, links to resources mentioned, and other compelling episodes can be found at http://LeadYourGamePodcast.com. (Click the magnifying icon at the top right and type “Chris”)
    Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!
    ------------
    JUST FOR YOU: Increase your leadership acumen by identifying your personal Leadership Trigger. Take my free my free quiz and instantly receive your 5-page report.
    Need to up-level your workforce or execute strategic People initiatives? https://shockinglydifferent.com/contact or tweet @KaranRhodes.
    -------------
    ABOUT CHRIS HOOD:Chris Hood, an esteemed keynote speaker and strategist, has emerged as a key figure in integrating customer success with digital strategy. With over thirty years of experience fostering business growth, Chris's innovative approach has cemented his status as a leader in cultivating customer-centric environments. As the author of 'Customer Transformation' and an upcoming book on Customer Aspirations, he provides invaluable insights into aligning businesses with the changing demands of their clientele. Recognized as one of the Top 30 Customer Experience Gurus by Global Gurus in 2024, Chris's expertise spans his tenure at Google, where he spearheaded digital strategy initiatives within the Customer Success division and his groundbreaking work in narrative technologies at Fox & Disney.
    In 2024, Chris continues pushing boundaries with his Fractional Chief Customer Officer practice, which is dedicated to reshaping organizations into customer-focused entities. His contributions to 'The Chris Hood Digital Show' and advisory roles for innovative companies in the Gaming and AI sectors further highlight his impact on driving digital innovation and customer alignment across diverse industries. Additionally, Chris shares his wealth of knowledge with Southern New Hampshire University students, emphasizing the pivotal intersection of business strategies and technology for achieving customer-centric success.
    ------------
    WHAT TO LISTEN FOR:1.    What factors contribute to the evolution of customer expectations?
    2.    How can a culture of customer-centricity be promoted across every organizational level?
    3.    What is the impact of employee ideas on organizational success?
    4.    What are the seven stages involved in aligning business value with customer needs?
    5.    How does...

    • 44 min
    Using Hybrid Book Publishing to Catapult Your Leadership Brand with Tanya Hall

    Using Hybrid Book Publishing to Catapult Your Leadership Brand with Tanya Hall

    IN THIS EPISODE...
    As leaders in our respective fields, many of us nurture aspirations of authorship or have already embarked upon the journey of literary creation. This episode offers a captivating glimpse into the intricacies of the publishing process, providing invaluable guidance on refining existing works and realizing the full potential of forthcoming literary endeavors.
    Meet Tanya Hall, CEO of Greenleaf Book Group, a pioneering force in the literary landscape. Greenleaf Book Group is a distinguished hybrid book publishing entity specializing in comprehensive author support and strategic publishing endeavors. Leveraging their extensive industry expertise, Greenleaf cultivates collaborative partnerships with authors, guiding them towards optimal pathways for their literary works.
    ------------
    Full show notes, links to resources mentioned, and other compelling episodes can be found at http://LeadYourGamePodcast.com. (Click the magnifying icon at the top right and type “Tanya”)
    Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!
    ------------
    JUST FOR YOU: Increase your leadership acumen by identifying your personal Leadership Trigger. Take my free my free quiz and instantly receive your 5-page report.
    Need to up-level your workforce or execute strategic People initiatives? https://shockinglydifferent.com/contact or tweet @KaranRhodes.
    -------------
    ABOUT TANYA HALL:Tanya Hall is a dynamic leader known for her innovative approach to the publishing industry. As the CEO of Greenleaf Book Group, a pioneering hybrid book publisher, she spearheads growth efforts while nurturing a culture centered on author service and thought leadership. With a wealth of experience, Tanya has played a pivotal role in shaping Greenleaf's success story.
    Before assuming the CEO position, Tanya held vital roles within Greenleaf, working closely with authors to craft effective publishing strategies. Her expertise has contributed to developing multiple New York Times bestsellers, showcasing her ability to navigate the competitive landscape of the publishing world.
    Tanya's visionary leadership extends beyond traditional publishing avenues. She has been instrumental in driving growth strategies, such as pioneering Greenleaf's ebook program and launching the River Grove digital-first imprint. Under her guidance, Greenleaf's distribution organization has flourished, earning a reputation as one of the fastest-growing distribution businesses in the industry. Tanya's strategic insight and hands-on approach have been instrumental in establishing Greenleaf as a trailblazer in the publishing realm.
    ------------
    WHAT TO LISTEN FOR:1.    What is hybrid book publishing and distribution?
    2.    How does hybrid publishing differ from traditional and self-publishing?
    3.    How has the rise of mobile readers and various reading apps affected the hybrid publishing industry?
    4.    Besides royalties from book sales, what other revenue opportunities exist for authors?
    5.    If someone desires to publish a book or seeks enhanced distribution, what steps should they take to prepare?
    6.    What are some common misconceptions among the public about book publishing, including hybrid...

    • 35 min
    How Powerful People Master Powerful Partnerships with Dr. Stephen Barden

    How Powerful People Master Powerful Partnerships with Dr. Stephen Barden

    IN THIS EPISODE...
    This episode is a testament to the power of leadership, the resilience of the human spirit, and the boundless potential of organizational change. You’ll be inspired, enlightened, and perhaps even transformed.
    Today's episode features a distinguished guest joining us from Germany, Dr. Stephen Barden. Stephen is the founder and CEO of Stephen Barden Coaching Limited and the author of the book "How Successful Leaders Do Business with Their World." With over a decade of experience working closely with CEOs and boards across various industries, including media, technology, and communication, Stephen is renowned for his leadership coaching and mediation expertise.
    ------------
    Full show notes, links to resources mentioned, and other compelling episodes can be found at http://LeadYourGamePodcast.com. (Click the magnifying icon at the top right and type “Stephen”)
    Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!
    ------------
    JUST FOR YOU: Increase your leadership acumen by identifying your personal Leadership Trigger. Take my free my free quiz and instantly receive your 5-page report.
    Need to up-level your workforce or execute strategic People initiatives? https://shockinglydifferent.com/contact or tweet @KaranRhodes.
    -------------
    ABOUT DR. STEPHEN BARDEN:Dr. Stephen Barden is a seasoned professional with a background as a former CEO, now specializing in organizational leadership at both strategic and managerial levels. Holding a Doctorate in Professional Studies (DProf), he has conducted extensive research on how highly successful leaders wield power and authority, a subject he delves into further in his acclaimed book, "How Successful Leaders Do Business with Their World." Also, Stephen hosts two podcasts and is a certified executive coach and mediator.
    Drawing from his wealth of experience and scholarly pursuits, Stephen is a passionate advocate for "Partnering Leadership," emphasizing the importance of leaders and organizations collaborating closely with all stakeholders, leveraging their resources, ideas, and talents while considering their interests. He collaborates with organizations to ensure their culture aligns seamlessly with their strategic objectives, recognizing the detrimental effects of misalignment on both strategy and culture.
    ------------
    WHAT TO LISTEN FOR:1.    What is the alignment between organizational culture and strategy?
    2.    What are the challenges of remote work during the pandemic?
    3.    What are the principles of leadership, and how do they contribute to effective decision-making?
    4.    How do leadership, resilience, and values evolve after a difficult transition?
    5.    What is the relationship between leadership and intrapreneurship?
    ------------
    FEATURED TIMESTAMPS:[05:00] Journey of a Strategic Nomad
    [07:45] The Vital Link Between Organizational Culture and Strategy
    [10:57] Navigating Remote Work Realities: Trends and Challenges Post-Pandemic
    [17:55] Partnership Leadership: The Foundation of Success in Business and Beyond
    [30:00] Signature Segment: Stephen's entry into the LATTOYG Playbook: Resilience at the

    • 41 min
    The Power of Using Narratives to Lead Teams with Jevon Wooden

    The Power of Using Narratives to Lead Teams with Jevon Wooden

    IN THIS EPISODE...
    In the tapestry of leadership, one of the most crucial threads is the ability to construct a compelling narrative that resonates with others, elucidating what one aims to achieve and why it matters. Today, we are privileged to gain invaluable insights from a true maestro in this craft.
    Jevon Wooden, founder of BrightMind Consulting Group, is a visionary achiever with impressive academic credentials and 12 years of military service. He integrates his diverse experiences to excel in leadership and peak performance, overcoming challenges with unwavering commitment. Throughout today's conversation, Jevon shares his wealth of knowledge, illuminating the path toward effective leadership and narrative craftsmanship.
    ------------
    Full show notes, links to resources mentioned, and other compelling episodes can be found at http://LeadYourGamePodcast.com. (Click the magnifying icon at the top right and type “Jevon”)
    Love the show? Subscribe, rate, review, and share!
    ------------
    JUST FOR YOU: Increase your leadership acumen by identifying your personal Leadership Trigger. Take my free my free quiz and instantly receive your 5-page report.
    Need to up-level your workforce or execute strategic People initiatives? https://shockinglydifferent.com/contact or tweet @KaranRhodes.
    -------------
    ABOUT JEVON WOODEN:Jevon Wooden is a dynamic leader known for his unwavering dedication to excellence and ability to drive organizations toward unprecedented success. With a cybersecurity and business administration background, Jevon combines his expertise in data-driven strategies with a keen understanding of human dynamics to navigate the complexities of the modern marketplace.
    Having pursued his education at esteemed institutions such as Fordham University and the Robert H. Smith School of Business at the University of Maryland, Jevon's strategic insights are deeply rooted in academic rigor and practical experience. However, it is his distinguished 12-year military career that truly sets him apart. Decorated with a Bronze Star for valor, Jevon's time in the military instilled in him invaluable resilience, adaptability, and decisive leadership qualities, which he brings to every endeavor he undertakes.
    As the driving force behind BrightMind Consulting Group, Jevon and his team are more than just consultants—they are architects of potential. Committed to transforming visions into actionable strategies that yield tangible results, Jevon's approach has garnered recognition from top publications such as Entrepreneur, Inc. Magazine, and Forbes.
    ------------
    WHAT TO LISTEN FOR:1.    What is the purpose of using narratives to connect with audiences and achieve goals?
    2.    How does storytelling aid effective leadership and communication?
    3.    What are some tactics for leadership execution and developing executive presence?
    4.    How does leading with humility contribute to sustainable success in consulting?
    ------------
    FEATURED TIMESTAMPS:[04:50] Journey of a Lifelong Learner: From Cybersecurity Specialist to Leadership Advocate
    [10:04] Crafting Compelling Narratives: A Framework for Leadership Influence
    [24:00] Signature Segment: Jevon's LATTOYG Tactics of Choice: Leading with Executive Presence
    [25:21]...

    • 36 min

Customer Reviews

5.0 out of 5
26 Ratings

26 Ratings

Paris4U ,

The Necessary Conversation For Todays Leaders

I appreciated the ability to share unique perspectives on the platform and feeling “right at home” while doing it. You’re not up to date as a Leader if you are not listening to this podcast!

Culture Coach ,

Insightful & Experienced

Karan has a way of making her guests feel comfortable, heard and supported. An approach that represents her leadership style and teachings. I was grateful to have the opportunity to discuss our common passion around creating workplaces that not only provide an amazing culture but also build a remarkable brand! Karan is changing the world, one leader at a time!

JoeDunlap ,

Leadership advice for today

Karan captures the true practices of leaders who are facing the challenges head on in todays’s uncertain business world. She gets to the roots of good practices and shares common sense advice on how use them according to your own leading gf style.

Top Podcasts In Business

Private Equity Podcast: Karma School of Business
BluWave
Money Rehab with Nicole Lapin
Money News Network
The Ramsey Show
Ramsey Network
REAL AF with Andy Frisella
Andy Frisella #100to0
The Diary Of A CEO with Steven Bartlett
DOAC
The Prof G Pod with Scott Galloway
Vox Media Podcast Network