Author: Malinda Watt

Two Truths, One Lie: How Mark Wessner Uses Humor to Break Down Hierarchy and Build Trust

Kate Davis hosts an insightful conversation with Dr. Mark Wessner, president of MB Seminary, exploring how humor plays a pivotal role in leadership. Dr. Wessner, with a diverse background spanning executive coaching and ministry, shares amusing anecdotes from his eclectic career, including his time as a prison chaplain and experiences in land development. The discussion delves into the impact of humor on organizational culture, effective communication, and leadership styles. Dr. Wessner introduces his book “The Four Languages of a Leader,” offering valuable insights into personalized leadership communication.

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Hacks: How Kevin Dias Makes Room for Humor in a Fully Remote Startup

Kate Davis welcomes Kevin Dias, founder of Ambiki, to discuss the vital role of humor in effective leadership and startup culture. Kevin, who has harnessed humor to build and inspire teams in the tech and healthcare sectors, shares anecdotes on creating a fun work environment and the importance of problem-solving in business success. With insights into the cultural nuances of humor from his life in Japan and experiences with a remote team, this engaging conversation delves into leadership, innovation, and the balancing act between confidence and self-deprecation. Tune in for laughter and leadership wisdom from Kevin Dias.

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Build your Own Building: Lintao Lu

Kate Davis welcomes Lintao Lu, affectionately known as LT, to the show “Humor in the C Suite” to explore how humor fosters a positive work culture. LT, who rose from rural China to become a successful executive and entrepreneur, shares his unique perspective on leadership, humor, and resilience. They discuss cultural differences, the role of humor in easing boardroom tensions, and stories from LT’s journey. His memoir, “In Through the Window,” illustrates how humor and adaptability can tear down barriers and build trust across cultures.

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The Rebellion: Pavithra Venkatesan

Kate Davis hosts Pavithra Venkatesan a writer and life coach, on Humor in the C Suite, exploring how humor influences human behavior and leadership. Pavithra, known for her work in pattern intelligence, shares personal insights into motherhood, cultural humor contrasts between India and the US, and the role of humor in facilitating healing. The conversation delves into the interplay of seriousness and playfulness in professional settings, emphasizing humor as a tool for personal growth, collaboration, and fostering authentic connections. This episode offers a deep dive into humor’s transformative power in both personal and professional life.

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The Skill of Vulnerability: How Executive Coach Amy Green Smith Quiets Inner Critic & Builds Trust

Kate Davis sits down with Amy Green Smith on Humor in the C-Suite to explore how humor can transform workplace dynamics. Amy, known for her work with executive teams and creator of the Worthy Method, shares insights on using humor to boost communication and set better boundaries. They discuss the power of vulnerability and humor in disarming tense environments and the importance of personal responsibility in leadership. Amy also reveals how hypnotherapy can help reshape beliefs, offering tools for improved self-worth and team collaboration.

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Know the Room, Own the Room: How Michael Earls Uses Humor to Keep Leadership Human in the Age of AI

Kate Davis welcomes Michael Earls, a leader in enterprise cloud and AI transformation, on Humor in the C Suite. They explore humor’s role in easing technological transitions and fostering human connections in a rapidly changing digital landscape. With insights from Michael’s books, including Finding Direction in the Age of AI, they discuss using levity to diffuse tensions and build trust within teams. The conversation highlights challenges and curiosities of AI, offering a blend of technological and human perspectives, and underscores humor’s power to navigate the complexities of the modern corporate world.

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The Reframe: Jeff Arnold, Bestselling Author & RightSure Founder, on Humor as a Leadership Strategy

In this episode of “Humor in the C Suite,” Kate Davis chats with Jeff Arnold, a five-time bestselling author and founder of one of North America’s most awarded insurance firms. They discuss how humor can enhance leadership and team dynamics, emphasizing the value of self-deprecating humor in fostering authenticity and collaboration. Jeff shares insights from his diverse career, from the U.S. Army to the insurance industry, and highlights the importance of embracing failure with humor. The conversation also touches on using humor to navigate technological advancements and leadership challenges.

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The Trolley Scenario: Neuroinclusive Leadership and the Hidden Cost of Masking with Ron Sosa

Kate Davis hosts Ron Sosa, a neurodivergent life and leadership coach, on this episode of Humor in the C Suite. They discuss Ron’s career journey, his passionate advocacy for neuroinclusion, and how humor plays a vital role in creating inclusive work environments. Ron shares insights from his book, “Rewriting the Rules,” offering advice on leading with authenticity and empathy. The conversation delves into the importance of understanding personal values, using humor for connection, and supporting neurodivergent individuals in professional settings. Join Kate and Ron for an engaging discussion full of valuable leadership insights.

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Coding with Humor: Leadership Lessons from Tech CEO Jeroen Derwort

Join host Kate Davis as she sits down with Jeroen Derwort, founder of Online Soccer Manager and aviation app Roster Buster. Discover how Jeroen’s journey from a shy coder to a leader in the gaming industry was shaped by humor and unexpected success. Explore stories of high-stakes negotiations, navigating corporate challenges, and the role of humor in fostering creativity and teamwork. With insightful anecdotes, Jeroen shares how humor helped him lead and adapt while building global tech companies and guiding future game developers.

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The Flight of Authenticity: Bold Leadership Lessons from Crooked Compass Founder Lisa Pagotto

Kate Davis hosts Lisa Pagotto, founder of Crooked Compass, on Humor in the C Suite. They explore how humor shapes workplace culture, particularly in niche travel experiences. Lisa shares insights from leading a remote team, managing client expectations for adventurous trips, and navigating the complexities of the travel industry. She reflects on her early career challenges and the importance of vulnerability and humor in effective leadership. Highlights include engaging travel stories and the role of humor in overcoming cultural and logistical challenges.

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