How to Lead From the Heart with Mark Crowley

HR Superstars

How do you create a workplace where employees feel valued, engaged, and inspired to stay?

Mark Crowley, author of Lead From the Heart and a pioneer in human-centered leadership, believes it starts with cultivating a culture of care. Drawing on groundbreaking research and decades of experience, Mark explains how emotions, trust, and belonging shape employee well-being and performance.

Mark also shares the science behind the heart’s role in decision-making, revealing how positive emotions, like safety and appreciation, lead to innovation and loyalty. He shares actionable insights for managers and HR leaders on creating a thriving team dynamic—one that balances well-being and performance for long-term success.

Join us as we discuss:

(00:00) Introduction to the episode with Mark Crowley

(01:25) How life shaped Mark’s leadership approach

(04:28) The moment Mark recognized his leadership style

(08:12) The heart’s role in leadership and performance

(15:20) The “rule of four” for workplace emotions

(16:53) Addressing resistance to heart-centered leadership

(24:13) Tips for HR to drive meaningful change

(28:28) HR needs both a heart and a backbone

(31:26) Belonging’s impact on team performance

(36:45) The power of one-on-ones for remote teams

Resources:

For the entire interview, subscribe to HR Superstars on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube, Or tune in on our website. Original podcast track produced by Entheo.

Listening on a desktop & can’t see the links? Just search for HR Superstars in your favorite podcast player.

Hear Karina’s thoughts on elevating your HR career by following her on LinkedIn.

Click here to download 15Five’s Employee Engagement Playbook!

For more on maximizing employee performance, engagement, and retention, click here.

Mark Crowley’s LinkedIn - click here!