Wired to Lead

The Power of "With": How Vulnerability Fuels Leadership

Julia LeFevre — Mon, 01 Jun 2026 07:00:00 -0500

Why you should listen:
Most leaders obsess over the "what." What goals? What metrics? What strategy? Damon Young argues we're missing the real work: discerning the "why" and the "how." In this season premiere, Damon shares how journaling, shedding old beliefs, and building learning cultures (not knowing cultures) changed everything for him. If you've ever felt depleted by your own ambition, this conversation is your permission slip to slow down and lead from a different place.

Key Takeaways:

The Three Rs: Revelation without relationship becomes burnout. Responsibility without community becomes isolation.
Trade-In, Don't White-Knuckle: Damon's practice of "trading in" limiting beliefs offers a gentler, more sustainable model for growth.
Control vs. Growth: Craig Groeschel's binary question and how Damon applied it to board leadership, community work, and personal life.
Offense as the #1 Blocker: Why unresolved offense keeps organizations (and entire communities) from moving forward.

I hope you enjoy this episode!
Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
Julia and the Wired to Lead podcast team

Connect with Julia Lefevre on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliaklefevre/
Visit the Brave Restoration website here: https://braverestoration.org/

Listen to Wired to Lead on these podcast platforms:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/1hed3JQ5LGi5sQcAXBCYk5
Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/wired-to-lead/id1818563028
Amazon Podcasts: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/e45fe954-ce5e-43d9-92ac-cee721d8dc5c/wired-to-lead

#WiredToLead #JuliaLefevre #LeadershipPodcast #EmotionalIntelligence #SelfLeadership #PersonalDevelopment #GrowthMindset #MindfulnessAtWork #ResilientLeadership #ExecutiveCoaching #LeadershipGrowth #WomenInLeadership #MentalHealthAtWork #LeadershipSkills #WorkplaceWellness #LeadershipDevelopment #ProfessionalGrowth #TeamLeadership #MotivationalPodcast #LeadershipTips
Wired to Lead, hosted by Julia Lefevre, explores the intersection of neuroscience, emotional intelligence, and leadership. Each episode dives into practical strategies and inspiring stories designed to help leaders build self-awareness, resilience, and authenticity in their leadership style. Whether you’re an emerging leader or an executive, Wired to Lead provides tools to develop emotional intelligence, improve team dynamics, and lead with greater clarity and purpose.

Why the Best Leaders Stop Trying to Be Perfect

Julia LeFevre — Mon, 20 Apr 2026 07:00:00 -0500

Why you should listen:
Julia and Michael met in a process group. He was the one who stopped calling her "Julie" and started calling her "Julia." That small act of recognition became a turning point in her leadership journey. In this deeply personal episode, they pull back the curtain on identity, CliftonStrengths, and why the nervous system matters more than any strategy deck. If you've ever felt like your greatest strengths were the things people punished you for, this conversation will feel like a deep exhale.

Key Takeaways:

All Communication Is Identity Negotiation: The stress at work isn't about the project. It's about who you're being told you need to be.
CliftonStrengths on Steroids: Michael's "Core Clarity" approach goes deeper than top-5 lists. It shows how talents interact and gives leaders permission to be great at some things and not others.
Neural Leadership: How the brain is physically shaped by relationship, and why this is "next gen" leadership development.
Cultural Headwinds: Women leaders with strengths like competition and significance face unique resistance. Michael names it directly.

I hope you enjoy this episode!
Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
Julia and the Wired to Lead podcast team

Connect with Julia Lefevre on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliaklefevre/
Visit the Brave Restoration website here: https://braverestoration.org/

The "Loser Move of the Week" That Built Psychological Safety

Julia LeFevre — Wed, 17 Dec 2025 06:30:00 -0600

What if HR leadership wasn't about compliance but about building belonging, trust, and psychological safety?

Jennifer Golynsky has spent decades in HR leadership, and her approach goes far beyond compliance. In this episode, she and Julia explore the neuroscience of belonging, the power of curiosity as a practiced skill, and how to build workplaces where people feel safe enough to fail. From hybrid work strategies that actually work to the importance of not taking rejection of advice personally, Jennifer shares hard-won wisdom for anyone navigating the complexities of leading people.

In This Episode You'll Discover:

The #1 belief about HR that executives need to unlearn
Why celebrating failure builds psychologically safe teams
How to stay regulated when someone comes to you dysregulated
Hybrid work strategies that increased employee engagement by 42 out of 43 metrics
Why curiosity is a practiced skill, not just a mindset
How coaching conversations unlock more potential than directive leadership
Career advice: Find your village and don't take rejection personally

Key Quote: "It's not your job to convince people. It's better to build the relationship so that when you need something, they ask, 'How can I help?' not 'What do you want?'"Jennifer Golynsky

Connect with Julia:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliaklefevre/
Website: https://braverestoration.org/

About Wired to Lead: Hosted by Julia Lefevre, Wired to Lead explores the intersection of neuroscience, emotional intelligence, and leadership. Each episode provides practical strategies to help leaders build self-awareness, resilience, and authenticity.

Why Insecurity Is Leadership's Biggest Enemy

Julia LeFevre — Wed, 10 Dec 2025 06:00:00 -0600

Ever been told you're "too different" for your industry? Brandon Stanchok turned that feedback into his leadership superpower. He joins Julia to explore how childhood permission to be himself shaped his contrarian style, why he intentionally seeks failure for perspective, and how understanding the neuroscience of insecurity can unlock breakthrough performance. From two years of imposter syndrome to building a thriving culture of "growth-ish" mentality, this episode is essential for leaders ready to drop the corporate mask.

I hope you enjoy this episode!
Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
Julia and the Wired to Lead podcast team

How a Female Leader Redefined Jack Daniel’s Future

Julia LeFevre — Wed, 03 Dec 2025 06:30:00 -0600

Summary
In this conversation, Julia LeFevre speaks with Heather Howell, CEO of Greater Than, about her journey in leadership, particularly in male-dominated industries like beverages and banking. They discuss the importance of innovation, authenticity, and the unique perspective women bring to leadership roles. Heather shares her experiences at Jack Daniel's and her transition to a health-focused startup, emphasizing the need for supportive workplace cultures and psychological safety. The conversation highlights the significance of collaboration, the power of female perspectives in consumer markets, and the importance of creating environments where everyone can thrive.

Takeaways

Innovation in leadership is about reshaping industries, not just products.
Women bring unique insights as primary consumers in the market.
Authenticity is crucial for female leaders to earn credibility.
Creating a supportive culture enhances employee performance.
Psychological safety is essential for fostering creativity and innovation.
Surrounding yourself with the right people is key to success.
Women should not be asked questions that would not be posed to men.
Investing in a culture of safety yields dividends for businesses.
Embracing change is necessary for brand evolution.
Collaboration between men and women is vital for progress.

I hope you enjoy this episode!
Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
Julia and the Wired to Lead podcast team

Connect with Julia Lefevre on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliaklefevre/
Visit the Brave Restoration website here: https://braverestoration.org/

Why Working Less Made Him More Successful: Bennett Maxwell on Leading Without Burnout

Julia LeFevre — Wed, 26 Nov 2025 06:00:00 -0600

Bennett Maxwell scaled Dirty Dough from one cookie shop to over 450 franchises in under three years, while learning that success without inner peace is hollow. In this conversation, he shares how he lost 130 pounds, rewired his relationship with work, and discovered that the best leaders don't work the most hours. If you've ever wondered whether there's more to leadership than grinding harder, this episode will shift your perspective on what actually drives sustainable success.

I hope you enjoy this episode!
Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
Julia and the Wired to Lead podcast team

Connect with Julia Lefevre on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliaklefevre/
Visit the Brave Restoration website here: https://braverestoration.org/

The Neuroscience of Habit Formation: How Leaders Build Resilience and Drive Change with Robert Feeney

Julia LeFevre — Wed, 19 Nov 2025 18:30:00 -0600

You can't think your way into better leadership. Robert Feeney, creator of Ring-a-Ring habit formation technology, explains why information alone fails to create transformation and what actually works instead. After losing two brothers to suicide, Robert dedicated his life to understanding what causes someone to take action in the heat of the moment. This raw, science-backed conversation explores brain patterns, belonging, and how leaders can build the neural capacity to stay curious under pressure instead of reactive.

Guest: Robert Feeney, Founder of Knowledge as a Service and Creator of Ring-a-Ring

Topics Covered:

Why knowing what to do doesn't equal being able to do it
The "heat of the moment" and what's happening in your brain
How habit formation actually works (hint: it's about patterns, not willpower)
The three core human needs: autonomy from the past, belonging in the present, power to create the future
Building neural capacity vs. accumulating knowledge
Why belonging is as essential as food, water, and shelter

Julia and the Wired to Lead podcast team
Connect with Julia Lefevre on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliaklefevre/
Visit the Brave Restoration website here: https://braverestoration.org/

Wired to Lead, hosted by Julia Lefevre, explores the intersection of neuroscience, emotional intelligence, and leadership. Each episode dives into practical strategies and inspiring stories designed to help leaders build self-awareness, resilience, and authenticity in their leadership style. Whether you’re an emerging leader or an executive, Wired to Lead provides tools to develop emotional intelligence, improve team dynamics, and lead with greater clarity and purpose.

Servant Leadership in HR: Increasing Retention by 50% with Shelley Hernandez

Julia LeFevre — Wed, 12 Nov 2025 06:30:00 -0600

What if the real engine of your company's growth wasn't strategy or sales, but the people who make it run? Shelley Maas Hernandez has built her career proving exactly that.

As a senior HR executive, Shelley has transformed workplaces by designing people-first strategies that increased retention by over 50% and saved organizations hundreds of thousands of dollars. But her journey started in an unusual place—going undercover in companies to expose HR nightmares, from inappropriate workplace behavior to missing documentation that could cost millions in lawsuits.

In this conversation, Shelley reveals how she turned HR from a cost center into a strategic advantage. You'll discover why retention starts before the interview ends, how getting buy-in for new systems is as simple as explaining "the why," and what it really means to lead with a servant's heart. From sitting at the front desk when her team needs coverage to admitting when she's wrong, Shelley models leadership that's both humble and transformational.

If you're ready to rethink what HR and leadership can be, this episode will challenge and inspire you to create workplaces where people truly thrive.

Julia and the Wired to Lead podcast team
Connect with Julia Lefevre on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliaklefevre/
Visit the Brave Restoration website here: https://braverestoration.org/

Building Trust on the Streets: A New Model for Community Policing with Officer Nate Schwiethale

Julia LeFevre — Wed, 05 Nov 2025 06:30:00 -0600

What happens when a top-arresting police officer realizes handcuffs aren't solving homelessness? Meet Officer Nate Schwiethale, whose radical shift from enforcement to empathy created a national model for community policing. After watching the same people cycle through jail day after day, Nate pioneered the Homeless Outreach Team, helping 1,500 people find housing and reducing arrests by 84%. In this episode, discover the mindset shifts, vulnerable moments, and partnership strategies that transformed not just his approach, but an entire system. From coffee runs to housing vouchers, Nate proves that building trust beats building statistics every time.

Julia and the Wired to Lead podcast team
Connect with Julia Lefevre on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliaklefevre/
Visit the Brave Restoration website here: https://braverestoration.org/

Building Trust Through Connection: An HR Leader's 20-Year Playbook

Julia LeFevre — Wed, 29 Oct 2025 06:00:00 -0500

What if the real engine of organizational success isn't strategy, it's people?

In this transformative episode, seasoned HR leader Laura Golembieski shares 20+ years of wisdom about what truly drives performance: genuine human connection. From managing retail teams 30 years her senior at age 22 to partnering with C-suites at global brands, Laura has discovered that the most successful organizations don't just have better strategies—they have leaders who understand the science of connection.

Join host Julia LeFevre as she explores:

Why weekly one-on-ones aren't optional (and the neuroscience that proves it)
How your team's "brain tank" must be filled before their thinking brain can perform
The "Christmas Eve Sunday night" vision that transformed workplace culture
Why listening without action destroys trust
How to lead when you're not the smartest person in the room (and why that's actually your superpower)

Laura reveals her non-negotiable practice of spending one hour weekly with each direct report—not for status updates, but for genuine connection. Discover why this investment yields the highest ROI in team performance, innovation, and retention.

Plus, Julia breaks out her famous blue brain model to demonstrate the neurological reality behind why connection must come before cognition—a game-changer for anyone who thinks relationship-building is "soft."

Whether you're a new manager or seasoned executive, this conversation will fundamentally shift how you think about Monday mornings and the true role of leadership.

Julia and the Wired to Lead podcast team
Connect with Julia Lefevre on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliaklefevre/
Visit the Brave Restoration website here: https://braverestoration.org/

From Selling Computers at Sears to Building Billion-Dollar Exits with Matt Watson

Julia LeFevre — Wed, 22 Oct 2025 06:30:00 -0500

The Four Types of Leaders – And Why You Can't Be All of Them

What happens when your greatest strength as a founder becomes your biggest leadership blind spot? And how do you scale a company without losing yourself – or your team – in the process?

In this episode, Julia sits down with Matt Watson, a Kansas City-based serial entrepreneur who's built and exited three companies, created over 1,000 jobs, and learned the hard way that self-awareness beats hustle every time. Matt is the founder of Stackify, VIN Solutions, and FullScale, and author of Product Driven – a book on software engineering and leadership that's really about knowing what you're good at and hiring for the rest.

This conversation goes deep into the realities of scaling businesses – the pivotal moments of self-awareness, the dangerous traps of complacency, and the intentional choices that separate sustainable growth from burnout.

In this episode, you'll discover:

The Sears origin story: How saying yes to a panicked car dealer launched a multimillion-dollar career
The four types of engineering leadership (strategic, operational, technical, product) – and why trying to be all of them will kill your company
The "Rocket Fuel" moment when Matt's COO told him his million ideas were creating chaos, not inspiration
Why complacency cost him 15% of revenue – and how to stay growth-focused without burning out
How to know when you've outgrown your people (and how to have that conversation with integrity)
Why every founder needs peers, mentors, and "a therapist of some form" to process the weight of leadership
The shift from building companies for exits to building ecosystems that create meaningful work for hundreds of families

Whether you're a founder struggling to delegate or a leader stuck doing work you hate because you think you have to, Matt's wisdom on leading from your strengths will change how you build.

ABOUT MATT WATSON:

Matt Watson is a Kansas City-based serial entrepreneur and founder of Stackify, VIN Solutions, and FullScale. Over his career, he's created more than 1,000 jobs and helped scale multiple companies to successful exits. He's a passionate advocate for self-aware leadership, building meaningful work, and helping other entrepreneurs scale without losing themselves in the process. Matt is also the author of Product Driven and host of the Startup Hustle podcast.

Connect with Matt:

Book: Product Driven
Website: Product Driven (productdriven.com)
Company: FullScale (fullscale.io)

I hope you enjoy this episode!
Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
Julia and the Wired to Lead podcast team

Connect with Julia Lefevre on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliaklefevre/
Visit the Brave Restoration website here: https://braverestoration.org/

Integrated Leadership Through Change with Nissi Ozigbu

Julia LeFevre — Wed, 15 Oct 2025 05:55:00 -0500

What if leading change didn't have to burn out your team?

Nissi Ozigbu has spent 15 years as a change management expert helping organizations transform without losing their people. In this conversation, she reveals why most change initiatives fail, how motherhood reshaped her leadership style, and what it takes to build change capability from the inside out.

You'll discover:

What change management actually is (and why organizations misunderstand it)
Why constant change is causing a global burnout crisis
How one piece of painful feedback transformed Nissi's entire approach to leadership
Why change fails when senior leaders don't embody the transformation
How to create psychological safety during organizational transition

Nissi champions integrated leadership—where who you are, what you believe, and how you lead are fully aligned. Her journey from rigid performance manager to compassionate leader offers a roadmap for anyone navigating transformation.

If you're leading change and your team is exhausted, this episode will reframe everything.

Connect with Nissi: https://www.thegrowthhut.co.uk/

Run to the Fire: Leading Through Complexity

Julia LeFevre — Wed, 08 Oct 2025 06:42:01 -0500

Hari Gopu's journey from the son of Indian immigrants in 1980s Australia to leading infrastructure and energy companies across three continents wasn't about climbing a ladder—it was about learning to read the room, watch for truth in actions not words, and never stop asking "why?"

In this episode, Hari shares hard-won lessons about transformational leadership, including:

Why explaining "the why" once (or even ten times) isn't enough
The confronting survey result that changed how he approaches safety culture
How to bridge generational divides in an era of information overload
Why the best leaders recruit people better than themselves
The power of "freedom within boundaries" to unlock creativity
How staying proximate to your team prevents the "ivory tower" trap

Whether you're navigating organizational change, building trust across diverse teams, or trying to stay focused when everything feels urgent, Hari's story offers a masterclass in leading with clarity and humanity.

From Command to Connection: Leading with the Umbrella Model

Julia LeFevre — Wed, 01 Oct 2025 05:45:00 -0500

What happens when a military-trained leader learns that authority alone doesn't build great teams? Gabe Disbrow, President and CEO of Lever Supermarkets, shares his journey from top-down command in the military to connection-driven leadership in a 100% employee-owned company.

From Command to Connection: Leading with the Umbrella ModelIn this episode, Gabe reveals his "umbrella leadership model"—a framework for protecting your team while empowering them to take risks and grow. He also opens up about the mistakes he made early in his career (the "fixer trap"), how he navigated COVID-era burnout, and why he measures success by whether employees would bring their grandma to see where they work.

If you're an emerging leader struggling to balance speed with empowerment, or a seasoned executive rethinking what truly drives performance, this conversation will challenge how you think about accountability, failure, and what it means to lead with credibility.

What You'll Learn

The transition challenge: Why military leadership doesn't translate directly to civilian workplaces (and what to do instead)
The umbrella model: How to take responsibility for your team's first mistakes while building their decision-making confidence
Behavioral baselines: The subtle art of noticing when someone's "off" and turning it into meaningful connection
The fixer trap: Why doing everything yourself creates short-term wins but long-term organizational failure
Crisis leadership lessons: What COVID taught Gabe about resource management, burnout, and widening your KPI lens
The grandma test: Gabe's definition of workplace success (and it's not what you think)
Employee ownership dynamics: How peer-to-peer accountability creates an "extra gear" most companies never access

The Leadership Paradox: When Moving "Backward" Is Actually Forward

Julia LeFevre — Wed, 24 Sep 2025 07:51:32 -0500

Carl Bowden made a decision that shocked everyone: after building a successful leadership coaching company for 4.5 years, he walked away to join someone else's team.

But here's the twist—it might be the smartest career move he ever made.

In this raw and revealing conversation, Carl takes us inside the brutal reality of entrepreneurship: the sleepless nights when he couldn't pay rent, the isolation when success felt impossible, and the perfect storm of personal tragedy that forced him to question everything. Then came one networking conversation that changed his entire trajectory.

This isn't your typical "follow your dreams" entrepreneurship story. This is about knowing when to pivot, how to stay true to your mission while changing your path, and why sometimes the most courageous thing you can do is admit you need help.

Carl reveals the counterintuitive leadership wisdom he's learned: why vulnerability is your secret weapon, how a CEO managing 8,000 employees does it with two words, and why the best leaders know when to let go of control.

Episode Highlights:

The John Maxwell book that rewired his brain (and why he read it 5 times)
How outdoor leadership retreats became his unexpected niche
The honest moment that launched his business: "I'm scared"
Why 40+ years of research proves honesty trumps charisma in leadership
The networking conversation at a mergers & acquisitions happy hour that led to his dream job

SE01 E15 - The Journey of a Resilient Leader | Mike Fidgeon | Wired to Lead Podcast

Julia LeFevre — Wed, 10 Sep 2025 07:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Wired to Lead, Julia LeFevre engages with Mike Fidgeon, a seasoned healthcare executive, discussing the complexities of leadership, resilience, and the importance of relational connections. Mike shares his journey from sports to leadership, emphasizing that leadership is a continuous learning process. They explore how past experiences shape our responses and the significance of creating a supportive environment for growth. The conversation also touches on the neuroscience behind leadership and the challenges of transitioning between different leadership styles.

I hope you enjoy this episode!
Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
Julia and the Wired to Lead podcast team

Connect with Julia Lefevre on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliaklefevre/
Visit the Brave Restoration website here: https://braverestoration.org/

SE01 E14 - Transforming Career Training: A New Approach

Julia LeFevre — Wed, 03 Sep 2025 07:00:00 -0500

In this engaging conversation, Julia LeFevre and Shelton Banks explore the transformative journey from traditional career training to innovative strategies that empower job seekers. Shelton shares his personal story of overcoming adversity, emphasizing the importance of authenticity, self-education, and storytelling in professional growth. They discuss the challenges faced in the nonprofit sector and the need for a new approach to job training that focuses on individual strengths and connections. The conversation highlights the significance of building genuine relationships and the power of narrative in interviews, ultimately advocating for a more inclusive and effective path to success.

I hope you enjoy this episode!
Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
Julia and the Wired to Lead podcast team

Connect with Julia Lefevre on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliaklefevre/
Visit the Brave Restoration website here: https://braverestoration.org/

SE01 E13 - Overcoming Adversity: Evan Marshall's Story of Resilience

Julia LeFevre — Wed, 27 Aug 2025 07:00:00 -0500

In Episode 13 of Wired to Lead, former MLB reliever Evan Marshall—who climbed from a fourth-round pick to a reliable bullpen arm for the Diamondbacks, Mariners, Indians, and White Sox—opens up about how a near-fatal skull fracture reshaped his approach to game and life. Tune in for an inspiring tale of grit, recovery, and the mental wiring it takes to lead under pressure.

I hope you enjoy this episode!
Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
Julia and the Wired to Lead podcast team

Connect with Julia Lefevre on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliaklefevre/
Visit the Brave Restoration website here: https://braverestoration.org/

SE01 E12 - Unlocking Neurodiversity: Chris Weakly's Mission | Chris Weakly | Wired to Lead Podcast

Julia LeFevre — Wed, 20 Aug 2025 07:00:00 -0500

In this conversation, Chris Weakly, founder of Logical A, shares his journey as an autistic professional dedicated to helping businesses attract and retain autistic talent. He discusses the high unemployment rate among neurodivergent individuals, the challenges they face in social interactions, and the importance of curiosity and connection in the workplace. Chris emphasizes the value of neurodivergent talent and encourages businesses to have open conversations about inclusivity and support. He also shares personal insights about his experiences and the importance of being authentic.

I hope you enjoy this episode!
Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
Julia and the Wired to Lead podcast team

Connect with Julia Lefevre on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliaklefevre/
Visit the Brave Restoration website here: https://braverestoration.org/

SE01 E11 -Navigating Leadership Challenges in Healthcare | Christopher Swing | Wired to Lead Podcast

Julia LeFevre — Wed, 13 Aug 2025 07:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Wired to Lead, Julia LeFevre interviews Christopher Swing, the president and CEO of Vantage Surgical Solutions. They discuss Chris's unique leadership journey across various industries, the importance of scaling in leadership, and the lessons learned from mistakes. Chris shares how his childhood experiences shaped his approach to risk management and leadership, and how his definition of success has evolved over time. The conversation also touches on the challenges of transitioning from peer to boss, the significance of creating a positive organizational culture, and the pressures leaders face in their roles.

I hope you enjoy this episode!
Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
Julia and the Wired to Lead podcast team

Connect with Julia Lefevre on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliaklefevre/
Visit the Brave Restoration website here: https://braverestoration.org/

SE01 E10 - Vulnerability the Key to Great Leadership | Bridgette Ferraro | Wired to Lead Podcast

Julia LeFevre — Wed, 06 Aug 2025 07:00:00 -0500

In this episode of Wired to Lead, host Julia LeFevre interviews Bridget Ferraro, CEO of iCopy Legal, who has led the company to remarkable growth through a people-first approach and innovative technology integration. Bridget shares her leadership journey, the importance of vulnerability, and how motherhood has influenced her personal growth. She discusses the impact of neuroscience on leadership and the necessity of fostering a supportive culture in the workplace. Bridget also addresses the challenges women face in tech leadership and emphasizes the value of investing in employee well-being for retention and growth.

I hope you enjoy this episode!
Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.

Bridgette Ferraro: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bridgette-ferraro-94a7773b/

Julia and the Wired to Lead podcast team
Connect with Julia Lefevre on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliaklefevre/
Visit the Brave Restoration website here: https://braverestoration.org/

SE01 E09 - HR: Open Doors and Honest Conversations | Roderick Abernathy | Wired to Lead Podcast

Julia LeFevre — Wed, 30 Jul 2025 07:00:00 -0500

In this episode of the Wired to Lead podcast, Julia LeFevre interviews Roderick Abernathy, a strategic HR executive who shares his leadership journey, the importance of learning from mistakes, and the value of building relational connections in HR. Roderick discusses his experiences with leadership, the significance of feedback, and his pursuit of further education to enhance his strategic HR skills. He emphasizes the need for trust in HR and the challenges leaders face today, particularly in balancing people-centric approaches with strategic business goals.

Roderick Abernathy: https://www.linkedin.com/in/roderick-abernathy-6251881/

I hope you enjoy this episode!
Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
Julia and the Wired to Lead podcast team

Connect with Julia Lefevre on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliaklefevre/
Visit the Brave Restoration website here: https://braverestoration.org/

SE01 E08 - The Power of Authentic Leadership | Ronald Diamond | Wired to Lead Podcast

Julia LeFevre — Wed, 23 Jul 2025 10:00:00 -0500

In this engaging conversation, Ron Diamond shares his leadership journey, emphasizing the importance of relationships, vulnerability, and authenticity in both personal and professional life. He reflects on his early experiences in the corporate world, the lessons learned from challenges, and how these shaped his values and approach to leadership. The discussion highlights the significance of living in the present, the power of gratitude, and the need for genuine connections in fostering a positive work environment. Ron's insights encourage leaders to embrace their authentic selves and prioritize meaningful relationships over mere professional success.

I hope you enjoy this episode!
Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.

Ronald Diamond: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ronalddiamond/

Julia and the Wired to Lead podcast team
Connect with Julia Lefevre on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliaklefevre/
Visit the Brave Restoration website here: https://braverestoration.org/

SE01 E07 - Orchestrating Two-Way Trust in Leadership | Daniel Wachter | Wired to Lead Podcast

Julia LeFevre — Wed, 16 Jul 2025 07:00:00 -0500

In this conversation, Daniel Wachter, a transformational CEO and leader of the Colorado Symphony, shares his unique perspective on leadership through the lens of music and the arts. He discusses the importance of trust, feedback, and collaboration in leadership, drawing parallels between conducting an orchestra and leading a business. Daniel emphasizes the need for leaders to empower their teams, listen actively, and create a culture of trust to foster innovation and community engagement. He also outlines his vision for the future of the Colorado Symphony, focusing on innovative programming and connecting with diverse audiences.

I hope you enjoy this episode!

Daniel Wachter: https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielwachter/

Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
Julia and the Wired to Lead podcast team

Connect with Julia Lefevre on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliaklefevre/
Visit the Brave Restoration website here: https://braverestoration.org/

SE01 E06 - The Neuroscience of Connection in Leadership | Scott Makin | Wired to Lead Podcast

Julia LeFevre — Wed, 09 Jul 2025 07:00:00 -0500

In this conversation, Julia LeFevre and Scott Makin explore the significance of relational experiences in personal and professional growth. Scott shares his journey from a shy individual to a leader who values deep connections and emotional intelligence. They discuss the challenges leaders face in providing feedback, the importance of building relationships in the workplace, and how accountability can sometimes hinder transformation. The conversation emphasizes the need for safe relationships and community support in fostering personal growth and healing.

Makin Institute: https://makininstitute.com/

I hope you enjoy this episode!
Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.
Julia and the Wired to Lead podcast team

Connect with Julia Lefevre on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliaklefevre/
Visit the Brave Restoration website here: https://braverestoration.org/

SE01 E05 - Navigating the Complexities of Affirmative Action | Teresa Turner | Wired to Lead Podcast

Julia LeFevre — Wed, 02 Jul 2025 07:00:00 -0500

In this engaging conversation, Julia LeFevre interviews Teresa Turner, president of Synchronized Resources, about her extensive experience in affirmative action and equal opportunity. They discuss the importance of compliance, the myths surrounding affirmative action, and how these concepts relate to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. Teresa shares her personal journey into the field, the challenges she faced, and the significance of curiosity and integrity in leadership. The conversation emphasizes the need for organizations to focus on talent availability and to foster a culture of trust and collaboration in their DEI efforts.

I hope you enjoy! Like and subscribe so you don't miss out on any content.

Website: www.braverestoration.org

SE01 E04 - Curate the narrative of your life | Lacy Gunnoe | Wired to Lead Podcast

Julia LeFevre — Wed, 25 Jun 2025 07:00:00 -0500

In this conversation, Lacy Gunnoe, the Director of Wellbeing at Camp Southern Ground, shares his journey from military service to leading programs that support veterans and their families. He discusses the importance of belief, support, and community in personal growth and transition, emphasizing the need for intentional relationships and the challenges of setting boundaries. Lacy reflects on his leadership philosophy, which centers on empowering others and creating a legacy of support and connection.

Website: www.braverestoration.org

Lacy's website: https://campsouthernground.org/veteran-programs/warrior-week/

I hope you enjoy! Like and subscribe so you don't miss out on any content.

Website: www.braverestoration.org

SE01 E03 - The Impact of Bad Leadership on Personal Growth | Mark Wessner | Wired to Lead Podcast

Julia LeFevre — Wed, 18 Jun 2025 08:00:00 -0500

Welcome to the first episode of Wired to Lead - featuring Mark Wessner!

In this conversation, Mark Wessner shares his leadership journey, discussing the challenges and transformations he faced along the way. He reflects on his initial resistance to leadership, shaped by experiences with bad leaders, and how this led to a deeper understanding of effective leadership. Mark emphasizes the importance of self-awareness, the balance between ego and identity, and the shift towards authentic leadership. He also highlights the significance of building healthy relationships in leadership roles. In this conversation, Mark Wessner and Julia LeFevre explore the significance of supportive relationships in leadership, the importance of learning from failure, and the need for creativity and innovation in today's fast-paced world. They discuss how connection and community can help individuals overcome adversity and build resilience, as well as the legacy leaders hope to leave for future generations. Mark emphasizes the responsibility of current leaders to nurture and empower the next generation, highlighting the importance of intentional relationships and personal growth.

I hope you enjoy! Like and subscribe so you don't miss out on any content.

Website: www.braverestoration.org

SE01 E02 - Authentic Leadership and the Power of Mentorship | With Tricia Cooper | Wired to Lead Podcast

Julia LeFevre — Wed, 11 Jun 2025 08:00:00 -0500

In this conversation, Tricia Cooper, Director of HR at Prime Capital Financial, shares her leadership journey, emphasizing the importance of empathy, personal growth, and mentorship. She discusses the challenges and strengths of working mothers, the dynamics of young professionals entering the workforce, and the significance of authentic leadership. Tricia highlights the need for leaders to adapt to new generations and foster a culture of support and development.

I hope you enjoy! Like and subscribe so you don't miss out on any content.

Website: www.braverestoration.org

SE01 E01 - Importance of Outsourcing Certain Functions | With Bill Maness | Wired to Lead Podcast

Julia LeFevre — Wed, 04 Jun 2025 06:29:47 -0500

Welcome to the first episode of Wired to Lead - featuring Bill Maness!

In this conversation, Bill Maness, Owner of Syndeo HR Outsourcing, shares his insights on leadership, resilience, and the evolution of HR. He discusses his personal journey, the importance of teamwork, and the value of serving others in leadership roles.

Bill emphasizes the need for high standards and the significance of creating a positive work culture that prioritizes employee satisfaction.

He also addresses the changing landscape of HR, particularly in relation to compliance and the growing need for people-centric solutions. In this conversation, Bill Maness discusses the evolving role of HR in business, emphasizing the importance of outsourcing certain functions to enhance efficiency and focus on culture. He reflects on his own experiences in leadership, the lessons learned from past mistakes, and the impact of early life experiences on his approach to business. Bill also shares his vision for a leadership legacy centered around growth and positive outcomes.

I hope you enjoy! Like and subscribe so you don't miss out on any content.

Website: www.braverestoration.org