How Avoiding One Conversation Could Cost You Everything

Lead with Levity

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Join us each week as celebrity guests pitch an idea for a film based on one of the SUPER niche sub-genres on Netflix. From ‘Steamy Crime Movies from the 1970s’ to ‘Australian Dysfunctional Family Comedies Starring A Strong Female Lead’, our celebrity guests will pitch their wacky plot, their dream cast, the marketing stunts, and everything in between. By the end of every episode, Jimmy Carr, Comedian by night / “Netflix Executive” by day, will decide whether the pitch is greenlit or condemned to development hell! New episodes on Wednesdays starting May 28th! Listen on all podcast platforms and watch on the Netflix is a Joke YouTube Channel . The Big Pitch is a co-production by Netflix and BBC Studios Audio.…

about a year ago 17:26

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Avoiding tough conversations might feel safe, but it’s costing you and your team more than you realize.
In this episode, we dive into why unresolved conflicts grow into bigger problems, how avoiding them damages trust, and the hidden toll it takes on your confidence and leadership. Learn simple steps to stop avoiding difficult conversations, rebuild trust, and create the clarity your team needs to thrive.

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Did you have any lightbulb moments while listening? Share it with us on Instagram @leadwithlevity or visit our website leadwithlevity.com so we can talk about it!

164 episodes

How Avoiding One Conversation Could Cost You Everything

Lead with Levity

published about a year ago

MP3•Episode home

Send us a text

Support the show

Did you have any lightbulb moments while listening? Share it with us on Instagram @leadwithlevity or visit our website leadwithlevity.com so we can talk about it!

164 episodes

All episodes

Lead with Levity

1
Playing the Game Before It Plays You Mastering Behind-the-Scenes Influence 26:19

2 days ago26:19

26:19

Send us a text Have you ever walked into a meeting fully prepared, only to realize the decision was already made without you? You're not alone. In this episode, we're pulling back the curtain on the hidden dynamics of workplace power plays. You'll meet Rachel, a talented leader blindsided by decisions made behind closed doors, and Jack, who feels invisible despite putting in the work. Together, we'll break down why simply doing good work isn't enough and how you can proactively shape conversations and secure buy-in before the meeting even starts. You'll learn: Red flags you're being shut out of important conversations How to identify and connect with key influencers early Practical steps for securing allies and building your inner circle How to position your ideas so they're impossible to ignore Support the show Did you have any lightbulb moments while listening? Share it with us on Instagram @leadwithlevity or visit our website leadwithlevity.com so we can talk about it!…

Lead with Levity

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The BIKE Framework: Redefining Leadership with Self-Kindness and Creativity 27:05

9 days ago27:05

27:05

Send us a text What if leadership wasn’t about your title, but about the energy you bring into every room? In this episode, Dr. Heather Walker sits down with Tonya Kay Herb -- CEO, coach, and founder of Outspoken - to explore how redefining leadership starts with reclaiming kindness, starting with yourself. Tonya shares her signature BIKE framework (Be You, Insight, Kindness, Engage), a soulful and science-backed approach to showing up with purpose and presence in every area of life. You’ll hear how a forgotten bicycle turned into a powerful coaching tool - and why the voice in your head might just need a hug. If you’ve ever struggled with imposter syndrome, burnout, or that nagging inner critic, this episode offers the tools - and the mindset shift - you didn’t know you needed. Support the show Did you have any lightbulb moments while listening? Share it with us on Instagram @leadwithlevity or visit our website leadwithlevity.com so we can talk about it!…

Lead with Levity

1
5 Types of People You Want in Your Corner at Work 39:28

16 days ago39:28

39:28

Send us a text Ever feel like you're doing everything right at work but still not getting the recognition, resources, or results you deserve? You’re not alone—and you’re not crazy. In this powerful kickoff to a 4-part series, Dr. Heather Walker breaks down the 5 types of people every professional needs in their corner to grow, thrive, and finally stop operating in isolation. You’ll also hear Heather’s personal story of stepping into leadership without the support she truly needed—and what she wishes she had known earlier. This episode is for you if: You find yourself having to figure things out on your own. You lead a team but feel disconnected or under-supported. You want to get ahead without losing yourself in the process. Stay tuned for Part 2: “Hidden Power Moves Happening Behind Closed Doors (That You Can’t Afford to Ignore).” Mentioned in this episode: Why high performers still get shut out How to evaluate your current network The real reason some people seem to “coast” into promotions How to stop playing the game alone Support the show Did you have any lightbulb moments while listening? Share it with us on Instagram @leadwithlevity or visit our website leadwithlevity.com so we can talk about it!…

Lead with Levity

1
From Bias to Breakthrough: What Happens When We Actually Get Honest at Work 37:29

23 days ago37:29

37:29

Send us a text What if the biggest barrier to inclusion isn’t policy—but pride? In this episode, Justin Jones-Fosu , CEO of Work Meaningful and author of “I Respectfully Disagree,” joins me for a brutally honest, career-shifting conversation on what it really takes to lead inclusively. We go beyond the checkboxes and get into the messy middle—where unconscious bias meets real-time growth. Justin opens up about a personal moment of bias that still shows up for him and walks us through how he rewrites the story with curiosity, empathy, and humor. We talk about: 🔹 Why inclusion must go beyond race, gender, and identity 🔹 The leadership habit that’s more effective than the “open door” policy 🔹 How childlike curiosity builds better teams 🔹 The role of therapy in staying grounded under pressure 🔹 What to do after the bias shows up This episode might just change how you show up—at work and in life. If this hits home, DM me on Instagram @leadwithlevity or LinkedIn https://linkedin.com/in/leadwithconfidence Support the show Did you have any lightbulb moments while listening? Share it with us on Instagram @leadwithlevity or visit our website leadwithlevity.com so we can talk about it!…

Lead with Levity

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Drop the spatula: You’re the chef, not the line cook 31:07

4 weeks ago31:07

31:07

Send us a text Ever find yourself buried in work that technically isn’t even your job anymore? You know you should delegate, but somehow, it feels easier (or safer) to just do it yourself . Sound familiar? In this episode, we’re flipping the script on delegation. Because real leadership isn’t about doing everything —it’s about making sure everything gets done . We’ll cover: ✔ Why delegation feels so hard (and how to get over it) ✔ The #1 mindset shift that makes letting go easier ✔ How to ask the right questions before delegating ✔ What to do when your team is junior, stretched thin, or error-prone ✔ Why mistakes will happen—and why that’s actually a good thing If you’re tired of being overwhelmed and ready to step into true leadership, this one’s for you. If this hits home, DM me on Instagram @leadwithlevity or LinkedIn @ https://linkedin.com/in/leadwithconfidence Support the show Did you have any lightbulb moments while listening? Share it with us on Instagram @leadwithlevity or visit our website leadwithlevity.com so we can talk about it!…

Lead with Levity

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Comedy, Confidence & the Power of Trying Something New 10:23

5 weeks ago10:23

10:23

Send us a text What if the thing that brings you joy… is the thing you’re most afraid to try? In this special International Humor Month episode of the Lead with Levity Podcast, Dr. Heather Walker sits down with UK-based comedian Stea to talk about the courage it takes to chase joy—even when the odds (and audience) feel stacked against you. What’s in this episode: How Stea overcame self-doubt to step on stage for the first time Why your “weirdness” might be your greatest strength And how to find your people by being yourself Support the show Did you have any lightbulb moments while listening? Share it with us on Instagram @leadwithlevity or visit our website leadwithlevity.com so we can talk about it!…

Lead with Levity

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Don’t Leave Money on the Table: Insider Secrets from a Fortune 500 Recruiter 37:53

6 weeks ago37:53

37:53

Send us a text If you've ever played it safe during a job offer—or stayed silent when you knew you deserved more—this episode is your wake-up call. Dr. Heather Walker sits down with salary negotiation expert John Gates, founder of Salary Coach, to reveal the insider strategies companies use to save money... at your expense. With decades of recruiting experience and over 75,000 job offers under his belt, John shares how you can negotiate more money, more flexibility, and a bigger title— without risking your offer or your relationships. From navigating the application box that asks for your salary expectations, to the under-the-radar power of political sponsorship, John breaks it all down with precision and empathy. Whether you’re aiming for a raise, a new role, or a seat at the leadership table, this episode delivers the clarity and courage you need to stop playing small and start commanding what you’re truly worth. 🎧 Listen in to learn: Why negotiation starts before you even apply How to position yourself as the obvious choice (even in a saturated market) The exact moment to ask for a raise—and when it’s too late How to make yourself promotable without begging for it What most onboarding programs miss (and how to reverse-engineer your first-year success) Support the show Did you have any lightbulb moments while listening? Share it with us on Instagram @leadwithlevity or visit our website leadwithlevity.com so we can talk about it!…

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Do you know how to build a high performing team? 29:33

7 weeks ago29:33

29:33

Send us a text What makes a high-performance team actually work? In this episode, Dr. Walker sits down with INSEAD professor and leadership expert Henrik Bresman, co-author of X-Teams and co-founder of xLEAD. Henrik shares what elite organizations like Microsoft and the Museum of Modern Art are doing differently—and how you can apply those lessons right now. Dr. Walker and Henrik talk about leading through uncertainty, breaking out of rigid team structures, and the uncomfortable truth about why some teams soar while others stall. If you've ever felt like you're carrying the weight of your team while secretly wondering if you're doing it right, this episode is for you. They cover: What high-performing teams do differently How to lead when you’re the new face in a high-stakes environment Ways to encourage innovation without losing control Why most leadership advice misses the mark—and what to do instead If you're ready to lead with clarity and courage—without burning out—tune in now. Follow @leadwithlevity on Instagram for tools to level up your leadership game. Support the show Did you have any lightbulb moments while listening? Share it with us on Instagram @leadwithlevity or visit our website leadwithlevity.com so we can talk about it!…

Lead with Levity

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Greg survived war zones–but Corporate America broke him 35:24

8 weeks ago35:24

35:24

Send us a text Greg did everything right—or so he thought. After serving his country with honor, he returned home, took an entry-level job, and spent five years quietly showing up, working hard, and checking all the boxes. But no one was checking for him. If you’ve ever felt invisible at work—like your talent is being overlooked and your potential is stuck in neutral—this episode is for you. In this powerful episode, Dr. Heather Walker shares: - A raw, emotional story of her own journey from invisible to influential - The 3 myths that keep smart, capable people stuck in the shadows - Why hard work alone will never get you noticed (and what will) - A 4-part system that helps you get recognized, respected, and rewarded - An inspiring reminder that you don’t have to play politics—you just need a plan Remember: You are capable. You are worthy. You deserve to be seen. 💡 Ready to invest in yourself? Learn more about my course here: https://bit.ly/leadwithlevity Support the show Did you have any lightbulb moments while listening? Share it with us on Instagram @leadwithlevity or visit our website leadwithlevity.com so we can talk about it!…

Lead with Levity

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The high achiever’s trap: Why you're pushing harder but feeling worse 38:15

9 weeks ago38:15

38:15

Send us a text In the latest episode of the Lead with Levity podcast, Dr. Heather Walker sits down with Dr. Jenny Powers, a chemical engineer turned author, to discuss the pressures of high achievement and how to find true balance in life. The Myth of Having It All Dr. Powers shares her deeply personal journey of chasing success—first as an athlete, then as a scholar—only to realize that relentless striving often leads to burnout rather than fulfillment. Her story challenges the belief that we must “do it all” to be worthy. Key Takeaways from the Conversation: Achievement vs. Well-Being – Society glorifies overachievement, but constant striving can disconnect us from what truly matters. Recognizing the Disconnect – Many struggle because modern life ignores fundamental human needs like rest, social connection, and self-reflection. Small Steps to Change – Transformation isn’t about drastic leaps but making intentional choices that align with personal values. Building a Support System – Community, spirituality, and creative outlets—like writing—help redefine purpose and fulfillment. Redefining Success – True success isn’t about meeting external expectations but about creating a life that feels meaningful and sustainable. A New Path Forward Dr. Powers’ journey illustrates that stepping away from the traditional definition of success can lead to a more fulfilling and authentic life. By weaving in self-care, creativity, and connection, anyone can break free from the high achiever’s trap. Want to hear more from Dr. Jenny Powers? Follow her work and explore her co-authored book, On the Origin of Being Instagram: @ontheoriginofbeing Tune into Lead with Levity for this powerful conversation and start creating a life that truly aligns with you! Support the show Did you have any lightbulb moments while listening? Share it with us on Instagram @leadwithlevity or visit our website leadwithlevity.com so we can talk about it!…

Lead with Levity

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Stop Wasting Time: 6 Meeting Mistakes and How to Fix Them 24:05

10 weeks ago24:05

24:05

Send us a text Meetings can be a productivity killer when poorly managed. Many professionals, like Jordan, find themselves stuck in unnecessary, unproductive discussions that drain time and energy. Common meeting mistakes include domination by one speaker, lack of real collaboration, going off-topic, constant postponements, micromanagement, and meetings that should’ve been emails. To fix this, leaders must run meetings with clear goals, structured agendas, and a focus on efficiency. Simple strategies—like keeping discussions on track, using an agenda as a guide, and capturing off-topic ideas separately—can make meetings more productive and engaging. Key Takeaways ✔ Keep Meetings Collaborative – Avoid one-person monologues and ensure everyone’s input matters. ✔ Stick to the Agenda – Prevent discussions from derailing by consistently referencing meeting goals. ✔ Make Decisions, Not Delays – Ensure meetings lead to actionable outcomes rather than endless postponements. ✔ Respect People’s Time – If it can be an email, don’t make it a meeting. ✔ Encourage Trust & Efficiency – Avoid micromanagement during check-ins to keep morale high. Take Action Before scheduling your next meeting, ask yourself: ✅ Is this necessary? ✅ What’s the goal? ✅ Could this be an email? 🔹 Join the conversation! Share your worst meeting experiences in the comments. Let’s fix workplace meetings together! 🔹 Follow me on Instagram and LinkedIn for more leadership insights and workplace productivity tips! Support the show Did you have any lightbulb moments while listening? Share it with us on Instagram @leadwithlevity or visit our website leadwithlevity.com so we can talk about it!…

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Leadership lessons from scaling the Art of Shaving 38:44

11 weeks ago38:44

38:44

Send us a text In the latest episode of the Lead with Levity podcast, Dr. Heather Walker sits down with Eric Malka, the visionary co-founder of The Art of Shaving, to explore his remarkable path from humble beginnings to building a multimillion-dollar brand. The Art of Starting Small Eric’s journey began in a small kitchen, where he and his wife crafted high-quality shaving products with a simple yet powerful mission—elevate the shaving experience. What started as a passion project quickly grew into a thriving business, eventually catching the attention of Procter & Gamble, which later acquired the brand. Lessons from the Trenches Throughout the conversation, Eric shares invaluable insights on entrepreneurship, emphasizing the power of starting small and learning through experience. Some of his key takeaways include: Build a passionate team – Surrounding yourself with the right people can make all the difference. Embrace the process – Success isn’t just about the destination; it’s about enjoying the journey. Know when to let go – Understanding when to step away or pivot is crucial for long-term success. Redefining Success & Paying It Forward While financial success is often the focus of entrepreneurship, Eric highlights the importance of redefining success beyond money. Today, through Strategic Brand Investments , he dedicates his time to mentoring and investing in the next generation of entrepreneurs, helping them turn their big dreams into reality. Want to hear more from Eric Malka? Tune in to the full episode of Lead with Levity for a deep dive into his inspiring journey and expert insights! Connect with Eric at https://ericmalka.com Support the show Did you have any lightbulb moments while listening? Share it with us on Instagram @leadwithlevity or visit our website leadwithlevity.com so we can talk about it!…

Lead with Levity

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How do I show up for my team when I’m struggling too? 29:19

12 weeks ago29:19

29:19

Send us a text Let’s be real—the world feels like a lot right now. Between global crises, political tension, and personal stress, it’s hard enough to stay focused, let alone lead a team. If you’re feeling the weight of it all, you’re not alone. In this episode, we’re tackling one of the toughest questions leaders are facing: How do you show up for your team when you barely feel grounded yourself? I’ll break down: ✅ Your Role as a Leader – What it really means to create belonging in times of uncertainty ✅ Guiding Principles for Tough Moments – How to keep your team on track without overstepping ✅ The Right Way to Check In – Simple, powerful ways to support your people without forcing uncomfortable conversations Support the show Did you have any lightbulb moments while listening? Share it with us on Instagram @leadwithlevity or visit our website leadwithlevity.com so we can talk about it!…

Lead with Levity

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I didn’t get the promotion. What gives? 25:22

13 weeks ago25:22

25:22

Send us a text "I didn't get the promotion. What gives?” Amanda did everything right—at least, that’s what she thought. She worked hard, followed the advice she was given, and waited for her moment… but when promotion time came around, she was passed over. Again. Sound familiar? If you’ve ever felt stuck, overlooked, or frustrated because your hard work isn’t translating into career growth, this episode is for you. We’re breaking down: ✅ A silent trap that keeps high performers stuck ✅ Why waiting to be noticed is a losing game ✅ One simple habit that makes your achievements undeniable Most people assume that if they work hard, their work will speak for itself. But work doesn’t speak—people do. And if you’re not tracking your wins, your manager probably isn’t either. 🎧🔥 Listen now and to grab your free ‘Wins Log’ poster and documentation e-guide. Because never again should your hard work go unnoticed. Support the show Did you have any lightbulb moments while listening? Share it with us on Instagram @leadwithlevity or visit our website leadwithlevity.com so we can talk about it!…

Lead with Levity

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Do you feel safe enough to play at work? 31:42

14 weeks ago31:42