Unlock Your Leadership, with Dr Gary Crotaz, PhD

56 Taking Responsibility Before Authority: Tim Lupinacci on How Leadership Really Begins

gary@garycrotaz.com (Tim Lupinacci) — Wed, 11 Feb 2026 08:00:00 +0000

Some leadership lessons are learned through achievement. Others are learned when things go wrong … and you choose how to respond.

For Tim Lupinacci, Chairman and CEO of Baker Donelson, one of the United States’ leading law firms, that lesson came early. A late night, a costly mistake, and a leader who chose to see potential rather than failure reshaped how Tim understood responsibility, growth, and what leadership really asks of us.

In this episode of Unlock Your Leadership, Tim reflects on ownership under pressure, showing up when it’s uncomfortable, and how leaders shape their environment through what he calls their “leadership aroma” - the emotional and behavioural residue they leave behind.

He shares practical insight into building trust, creating psychological safety, and sustaining resilience in uncertain times, especially when leaders don’t yet have all the answers.

This conversation is a reminder that leadership isn’t triggered by title or promotion. It begins with how you choose to show up … especially when it would be easier not to.

Unlock Your Leadership is hosted by Dr Gary Crotaz, PhD — executive coach, speaker and award-winning author. From the creator of The Unlock Moment and The Box of Keys, this show brings you conversations with the world’s greatest leadership thinkers. Follow, subscribe and leave a review wherever you get your podcasts — and connect with Dr Gary on LinkedIn for more leadership insights. Part of The Unlock Moment podcast family.

55 Leading Culture Intentionally: James D. White and Krista White on What Leaders Must Design

gary@garycrotaz.com (Krista White, James D. White) — Wed, 4 Feb 2026 08:00:00 +0000

In organisations where culture is discussed constantly but felt inconsistently, one reality matters more than any slogan: culture is shaped by what leaders choose to design … and what they leave to chance.

James and Krista White bring two generations of leadership perspective to this challenge. James draws on decades advising and leading at the highest levels of global organisations. Krista works at the intersection of purpose, strategy, and social impact. Together, they co-authored Culture by Design, a practical framework for building organisations that are intentional, human, and built to perform over time.

In this episode of Unlock Your Leadership, we explore what it really takes to make culture operational. James and Krista discuss leading across generations, empathy as a core leadership capability, and how leaders close the gap between stated values and everyday experience.

This conversation is a reminder that culture isn’t something leaders inherit or delegate. It’s something they create - moment by moment, decision by decision - through what they model, reinforce, and choose to prioritise.

54 Leading Conflict Without Losing Yourself: Adam Vane on Self-Mastery Under Pressure

gary@garycrotaz.com (Adam Vane) — Wed, 28 Jan 2026 08:00:00 +0000

Some leadership challenges don’t announce themselves gently. They arrive charged, emotional, and already in motion.

For executive coach and conflict mediator Adam Vane, learning how to lead in those moments began far from the boardroom. After leaving the family business, Adam spent years in intensive Zen training, where a moment of stark clarity reshaped how he understood responsibility, self-regulation, and choice under pressure.

In this episode of Unlock Your Leadership, Adam translates that insight into practical leadership skill. He shares how leaders can stay steady when emotions run high, recognise the words that escalate conflict, and guide difficult conversations from confrontation toward understanding and progress.

Drawing on experience from UN crisis zones to high-stakes executive environments, Adam shows that effective conflict leadership isn’t about dominance or control … it’s about presence, attention, and the discipline to listen when it would be easier to react.

This conversation is for leaders who want to handle conflict without losing themselves — and turn moments of tension into moments of leadership.

53 Building Cultures That Truly Perform: Garry Ridge on Trust, Care, and Accountability

gary@garycrotaz.com (Garry Ridge) — Wed, 21 Jan 2026 08:00:00 +0000

Some leadership lessons come from frameworks and strategy. Others arrive unexpectedly … in a quiet moment that fundamentally reshapes how you lead.

For Garry Ridge, former CEO and Chairman Emeritus of WD-40, that moment changed how he understood culture, accountability, and what leaders are truly responsible for. In this episode of Unlock Your Leadership, Garry reflects on what matters most when you’re shaping an environment where people can learn, contribute, and perform at their best.

Drawing on decades of experience, Garry explores servant leadership, psychological safety, and why fear shuts down growth long before performance suffers. He unpacks the real intent behind his provocatively titled book Any Dumb Ass Can Do It, and explains why effective leadership isn’t about brilliance or charisma … but about care, consistency, and courage, practised daily.

This conversation is a practical reminder that leadership is revealed less by what you control, and more by how you show up - and the conditions you create for others to do their best work.

52 Beyond Networking: David Homan on Orchestrating Human Connection in Leadership

gary@garycrotaz.com (David Homan, Dr Gary Crotaz PhD) — Sun, 9 Nov 2025 23:39:07 +0000

In this episode of Unlock Your Leadership, Dr Gary Crotaz speaks with David Homan — founder of Orchestrated Connecting, relationship strategist, and champion of building deep, authentic human networks.

David shares his philosophy of orchestration — the idea that true connection isn’t transactional, it’s intentional. He and Gary explore how leaders can move beyond surface-level networking to cultivate relationships built on trust, empathy, and shared purpose.

They discuss how connection drives influence, why generosity is the foundation of great leadership, and how to create ecosystems where collaboration feels natural, not forced.

It’s a rich, soulful conversation about the future of human connection in leadership — and how to lead not by collecting contacts, but by creating communities that thrive.

Originally recorded for The Unlock Moment podcast.

51 Mastering Executive Transitions: Navid Nazemian on Leading Through Change with Clarity and Confidence

gary@garycrotaz.com (Navid Nazemian, Dr Gary Crotaz PhD) — Sun, 9 Nov 2025 23:31:54 +0000

In this episode of Unlock Your Leadership, Dr Gary Crotaz speaks with Navid Nazemian — executive coach, former global HR leader, and author of Mastering Executive Transitions: The Definitive Guide.

Navid shares powerful insights on what it really takes to step into a new leadership role — not just to survive the transition, but to thrive in it. Drawing on years of experience guiding senior executives around the world, he and Gary explore how leaders can build credibility fast, navigate complexity with confidence, and align personal purpose with professional impact.

They discuss the emotional and psychological dimensions of transition — the uncertainty, identity shifts, and moments of truth that every leader faces — and how to turn them into opportunities for growth and transformation.

It’s a rich, practical and deeply human conversation about how to lead yourself first, so you can lead others well when everything is changing.

Originally recorded for The Unlock Moment podcast.

50 Beyond the Algorithm: Michael Ross on Clarity, Curiosity and the Future of Data Leadership

gary@garycrotaz.com (Dr Gary Crotaz PhD, Michael Ross) — Sun, 9 Nov 2025 23:25:35 +0000

In this episode of Unlock Your Leadership, Dr Gary Crotaz sits down with Michael Ross — data scientist, technologist, and entrepreneur — for a fascinating conversation about what it means to lead in a world powered by data and AI.

Michael shares how the best leaders balance analytical thinking with emotional intelligence, using data not to replace human judgment but to enhance it. He and Gary explore how to turn information into insight, how to navigate ethical complexity in an algorithmic world, and why curiosity and humility are essential traits for data-driven leadership.

They discuss the dangers of “data without discernment,” how storytelling gives data meaning, and how leaders can foster cultures where evidence, empathy, and ethics work hand in hand.

It’s a sharp, forward-looking conversation about leading with both precision and purpose — and how data can illuminate, rather than overshadow, what makes leadership human.

Originally recorded for The Unlock Moment podcast.

49 The Maverick Leader: Alex Lazarus on Culture, Courage and Leading Boldly Through Change

gary@garycrotaz.com (Alex Lazarus, Dr Gary Crotaz PhD) — Sun, 9 Nov 2025 23:18:24 +0000

In this episode of Unlock Your Leadership, Dr Gary Crotaz is joined by Alex Lazarus — founder of Lazarus & Maverick, leadership coach, and culture transformation specialist — for a dynamic conversation about what it really takes to build high-performing, human-centred organisations.

Alex shares insights from years of helping leaders and teams navigate complexity, drive meaningful change, and create cultures where people thrive. She and Gary explore the tension between performance and wellbeing, how to lead boldly through uncertainty, and why courage, curiosity and connection are the cornerstones of modern leadership.

They discuss how to unlock “maverick energy” — the creative, values-driven force that turns good teams into exceptional ones — and how leaders can design cultures that empower authenticity and innovation.

It’s an energising and provocative conversation about leading with heart and edge — and how to build organisations that are as bold as the people within them.

Originally recorded for The Unlock Moment podcast.

48 Steward Leadership: Rajeev Peshawaria on Purpose, Sustainability and the Future of Business

gary@garycrotaz.com (Rajeev Peshawaria, Dr Gary Crotaz PhD) — Sun, 9 Nov 2025 23:13:42 +0000

In this episode of Unlock Your Leadership, Dr Gary Crotaz speaks with Rajeev Peshawaria — CEO of Stewardship Asia Centre, former Chief Learning Officer at Coca-Cola and Morgan Stanley, and author of Open Source Leadership and Sustainability by Design.

Rajeev shares his powerful vision for steward leadership — a model of leading that goes beyond profit to serve people, planet, and future generations. He and Gary explore how leaders can balance commercial performance with moral courage, and why sustainability must become a leadership mindset, not just a corporate initiative.

They discuss how purpose fuels performance, how stewardship builds trust and resilience, and what it takes to lead in a way that leaves the world better than you found it.

It’s an inspiring, future-facing conversation about redefining success through service, impact, and shared responsibility — a call to action for leaders ready to shape a more sustainable world.

Originally recorded for The Unlock Moment podcast.

47 Leading the Next Generation: Julie Carrier on Empowering Young Women to Lead with Confidence

gary@garycrotaz.com (Julie Carrier, Dr Gary Crotaz PhD) — Sun, 9 Nov 2025 23:08:38 +0000

In this episode of Unlock Your Leadership, Dr Gary Crotaz speaks with Julie Carrier — CEO of Girls Lead Worldwide, award-winning speaker, and one of the world’s leading voices on women’s leadership and youth empowerment.

Julie shares her inspiring journey from the Pentagon to the global stage, where she now helps thousands of young women find their voice, their confidence, and their path to leadership. She and Gary explore what it really takes to nurture the next generation of leaders — not by teaching them to emulate others, but by helping them discover who they truly are.

They discuss the mindset shifts that unlock confidence, how role models shape possibility, and why emotional intelligence and authenticity are the new cornerstones of leadership.

It’s an energising, heartfelt conversation about how to build leaders who lead with courage, compassion, and conviction — and how we can all play a part in unlocking their potential.

Originally recorded for The Unlock Moment podcast.

46 Ordinary Resilience: Dr Luis Velasquez on Turning Adversity into Leadership Strength

gary@garycrotaz.com (Luis Velasquez, Dr Gary Crotaz PhD) — Sun, 9 Nov 2025 23:00:10 +0000

In this episode of Unlock Your Leadership, Dr Gary Crotaz is joined by Dr Luis Velasquez — executive coach, researcher, and author of Ordinary Resilience: Rethinking How Effective Leaders Adapt and Thrive.

Luis shares his remarkable personal journey from surviving a life-altering diagnosis to becoming a trusted advisor to senior leaders worldwide. He and Gary explore what resilience really means — not as toughness or endurance, but as the capacity to adapt, grow, and lead with empathy through uncertainty and change.

They discuss how adversity shapes perspective, how vulnerability builds trust, and how everyday moments of courage can redefine what great leadership looks like.

It’s a deeply human, inspiring conversation about the ordinary practices that build extraordinary resilience — and how leaders can turn challenge into clarity and purpose.

Originally recorded for The Unlock Moment podcast.

45 Why Simple Wins: Lisa Bodell on Simplifying Leadership and Work That Matters

gary@garycrotaz.com (Lisa Bodell, Dr Gary Crotaz PhD) — Sun, 9 Nov 2025 22:56:13 +0000

In this episode of Unlock Your Leadership, Dr Gary Crotaz speaks with Lisa Bodell — founder and CEO of FutureThink, global keynote speaker, and author of Why Simple Wins: Escape the Complexity Trap and Get to Work That Matters.

Lisa shares her insights on how leaders can cut through unnecessary complexity to create space for clarity, creativity, and meaningful work. She and Gary explore why organisations so often overcomplicate things — and how simplicity, when done right, drives focus, innovation, and engagement.

They discuss practical strategies for eliminating bureaucracy, making faster decisions, and empowering people to do their best work — not more work.

It’s a sharp, energising conversation about how simplicity is the ultimate competitive advantage, and how great leaders create cultures where focus and freedom fuel performance.

Originally recorded for The Unlock Moment podcast.

44 The Unlocked Leader: Hortense le Gentil on Courage, Compassion and Leading with the Heart

gary@garycrotaz.com (Dr Gary Crotaz PhD, Hortense le Gentil) — Sun, 9 Nov 2025 22:52:33 +0000

In this episode of Unlock Your Leadership, Dr Gary Crotaz speaks with Hortense le Gentil — executive leadership coach and author of The Unlocked Leader: Dare to Free Your Mind and Discover Your Best Self.

Hortense shares her profound insight into what it means to “unlock” as a leader — to recognise and release the inner narratives, fears, and expectations that limit our authenticity and connection. She and Gary explore how courage, empathy, and self-awareness create the space for genuine transformation — and why true leadership starts not with strategy, but with humanity.

Through moving stories and practical wisdom, Hortense reveals how to move from control to trust, from fear to freedom, and from leading with the mind to leading with the heart.

It’s a graceful, powerful conversation about what happens when you stop performing leadership — and start becoming the leader you really are.

Originally recorded for The Unlock Moment podcast.

43 Transcend: Faisal Hoque on Unlocking Humanity in the Age of AI

gary@garycrotaz.com (Faisal Hoque, Dr Gary Crotaz PhD) — Sun, 9 Nov 2025 22:46:59 +0000

In this episode of Unlock Your Leadership, Dr Gary Crotaz speaks with Faisal Hoque — entrepreneur, futurist, and author of Transcend: Unlocking Humanity in the Age of AI — about what it really means to lead in a time of accelerating technological change.

Faisal shares his powerful vision for a world where AI and human consciousness evolve together, and where leadership must become more mindful, ethical, and emotionally intelligent than ever before. He and Gary explore how leaders can transcend the noise of disruption by integrating systems thinking, self-awareness, and compassion into how they make decisions and shape culture.

They discuss the risks of losing our humanity amid automation — and the opportunity to use AI as a catalyst for greater connection, creativity, and wisdom.

It’s a profound and forward-looking conversation about leading with soul in the age of machines — and how to transcend technology to rediscover what makes us most human.

Originally recorded for The Unlock Moment podcast.

42 The Power of Different: Dr Françoise Orlov on Embracing Neurodivergence in Leadership

gary@garycrotaz.com (Dr Francoise Orlov, Dr Gary Crotaz PhD) — Sun, 9 Nov 2025 18:30:17 +0000

In this episode of Unlock Your Leadership, Dr Gary Crotaz is joined by Dr Françoise Orlov — leadership coach and advocate for neurodiversity in the workplace.

Françoise shares her expertise on how understanding and embracing neurodivergence can transform leadership and organisational culture. She and Gary explore how leaders can move beyond labels to recognise the unique cognitive strengths that neurodivergent people bring — from creativity and innovation to empathy and systems thinking.

They discuss how to build psychologically safe environments where every brain can thrive, how self-awareness supports inclusion, and why diversity of thought is a vital ingredient in the future of leadership.

It’s a fascinating, deeply human conversation about the power of difference, the nuance of inclusion, and how understanding the mind unlocks the best in people.

Originally recorded for The Unlock Moment podcast.

41 Playing a Bigger Game: Dr Jenny Fernandez on Expanding Your Leadership Impact

gary@garycrotaz.com (Jenny Fernandez, Dr Gary Crotaz PhD) — Sun, 9 Nov 2025 18:25:19 +0000

In this episode of Unlock Your Leadership, Dr Gary Crotaz speaks with Dr Jenny Fernandez — executive coach, leadership strategist, and Columbia Business School educator — about what it truly means to play a bigger game as a leader.

Jenny shares her perspective on how ambitious, high-performing leaders can step into greater influence — not by doing more, but by thinking differently. She and Gary explore how courage, self-awareness, and intentional presence open the door to bigger opportunities, bolder conversations, and more meaningful impact.

Together, they unpack the mindset shifts that enable leaders to move from incremental progress to transformational change — and how to lead not just with strategy, but with purpose and conviction.

It’s a powerful, energising conversation about owning your space, amplifying your impact, and daring to play bigger than you ever have before.

Originally recorded for The Unlock Moment podcast.

40 Leadership as a Long Game: Dorie Clark on Focus, Reputation and Resilience

gary@garycrotaz.com (Dorie Clark, Dr Gary Crotaz PhD) — Sun, 9 Nov 2025 18:18:51 +0000

In this episode of Unlock Your Leadership, Dr Gary Crotaz is joined by Dorie Clark — bestselling author of The Long Game, Reinventing You, and Entrepreneurial You, and ranked among the top 50 business thinkers in the world by Thinkers50.

Dorie shares her wisdom on how to lead, learn and grow in a world obsessed with short-term wins. She and Gary explore what it really means to “play the long game” — developing patience, resilience and clarity of purpose while building a career and life that align with your deepest values.

They discuss how to balance ambition with sustainability, why reinvention is an essential leadership skill, and how to stay authentic while continually evolving.

It’s a grounded, inspiring conversation about leading with perspective — not just for today, but for the leader you’re becoming tomorrow.

Originally recorded for The Unlock Moment podcast.

39 Glad We Met: Dr Steven Rogelberg on the Art and Science of Great Meetings

gary@garycrotaz.com (Dr Gary Crotaz PhD, Steven Rogelberg) — Sun, 9 Nov 2025 18:13:09 +0000

In this episode of Unlock Your Leadership, Dr Gary Crotaz speaks with Dr Steven Rogelberg — organisational psychologist, distinguished professor, and author of Glad We Met: The Art and Science of 1:1 Meetings and The Surprising Science of Meetings.

Steven shares decades of research on one of the most underestimated leadership tools: the meeting. Far from being a mundane task, meetings — when done well — are a powerful window into a leader’s mindset, values, and ability to create clarity and connection.

He and Gary explore how to turn meetings from energy drains into energising moments of alignment, how 1:1s build trust and engagement, and why the best leaders see every interaction as a chance to listen, learn, and lead.

It’s a refreshing, evidence-based conversation that will change the way you think about meetings — and remind you that great leadership starts one conversation at a time.

Originally recorded for The Unlock Moment podcast.

38 Inside the Leadership Enigma: Adam Pacifico on What Great Leaders Get Right (and Wrong)

gary@garycrotaz.com (Adam Pacifico, Dr Gary Crotaz PhD) — Sun, 9 Nov 2025 18:08:01 +0000

In this special crossover episode of Unlock Your Leadership, Dr Gary Crotaz joins Adam Pacifico, executive coach, author, and host of The Leadership Enigma podcast, for an open and energising conversation about what it really takes to lead in a world that’s constantly changing.

Recorded on The Leadership Enigma, this episode brings together two leadership thinkers with a shared mission: to make leadership more human, courageous, and clear. Adam and Gary explore the tensions at the heart of modern leadership — between confidence and humility, structure and spontaneity, clarity and curiosity.

They share stories from their work with senior leaders across industries, reflecting on what separates the good from the truly great — and how self-awareness, empathy, and learning from failure define leadership that lasts.

It’s a lively, thought-provoking exchange that unpacks the enigma of leadership itself — and reminds us that in a complex world, the best leaders are those who stay grounded, open, and real.

Originally recorded for The Unlock Moment podcast.

37 The Coaching Habit: Michael Bungay Stanier on Curiosity, Courage and Better Conversations

gary@garycrotaz.com (Dr Gary Crotaz PhD, Michael Bungay Stanier) — Sun, 9 Nov 2025 18:02:21 +0000

In this episode of Unlock Your Leadership, Dr Gary Crotaz sits down with Michael Bungay Stanier — globally renowned coach, speaker, and author of The Coaching Habit and How to Work with (Almost) Anyone.

Michael shares his trademark blend of humour and insight as he and Gary explore how better questions — and braver conversations — can transform the way we lead, collaborate, and connect. They discuss the habits that make great leaders great coaches, why curiosity is the most underused superpower in leadership, and how to build “Best Possible Relationships” at work — even when things get messy.

Full of warmth, wisdom, and practical takeaways, this conversation reveals how to create space for honesty, trust, and growth — one question at a time.

It’s a lively, idea-packed exploration of the art of coaching as leadership, and leadership as relationship.

Originally recorded for The Unlock Moment podcast.

36 Performance at the Limit: Ken Pasternak on High-Speed Leadership and Trust Under Pressure

gary@garycrotaz.com (Dr Gary Crotaz PhD, Ken Pasternak) — Sun, 9 Nov 2025 17:56:15 +0000

In this episode of Unlock Your Leadership, Dr Gary Crotaz sits down with Ken Pasternak — leadership advisor, executive coach, and co-author of Performance at the Limit: Business Lessons from Formula 1 Motor Racing.

Ken brings insights from the world of elite motorsport into the world of leadership — revealing how the principles that drive championship-winning teams also drive high-performing organisations. He and Gary explore how clarity, collaboration, and trust under pressure separate good teams from great ones — and what leaders can learn from the way Formula 1 teams execute, adapt, and perform at the limit.

They discuss how leaders can build cultures of precision and learning, how to balance speed with control, and why psychological safety is as crucial in the boardroom as it is in the pit lane.

It’s a fast-paced, insight-rich conversation about leadership in motion — and how to perform at your best when every decision counts.

Originally recorded for The Unlock Moment podcast.

35 The Campfire of Leadership: Tony Martignetti on Connection, Purpose and the Power of Story

gary@garycrotaz.com (Dr Gary Crotaz PhD, Tony Martignetti) — Sun, 9 Nov 2025 17:49:41 +0000

In this episode of Unlock Your Leadership, Dr Gary Crotaz talks with Tony Martignetti — leadership advisor, speaker, and author of Climbing the Right Mountain: Navigating the Journey to an Inspired Life.

Tony invites us to gather round the metaphorical campfire — the place where leaders come together to share stories, connect with purpose, and find light in moments of challenge. He and Gary explore what it means to lead with warmth, presence, and vulnerability — to create spaces where people feel seen, heard, and inspired to bring their best selves forward.

They discuss the transition from chasing external success to embodying internal alignment, and how storytelling, empathy, and connection help leaders guide others through uncertainty.

It’s a rich, soulful conversation about lighting the fires that bring people together — and how the best leaders don’t just climb mountains; they build campfires along the way.

Originally recorded for The Unlock Moment podcast.

34 The Vision Code: Dr Oleg Konovalov on Clarity, Purpose and the Future of Leadership

gary@garycrotaz.com (Oleg Konovalov, Dr Gary Crotaz PhD) — Sun, 9 Nov 2025 17:39:47 +0000

In this episode of Unlock Your Leadership, Dr Gary Crotaz speaks with Dr Oleg Konovalov — global leadership expert, author of The Vision Code, and one of the foremost thinkers on the power of vision in modern organisations.

Oleg shares what he’s learned from decades of working with leaders worldwide: that true vision isn’t a slogan or a statement — it’s a living force that aligns people, purpose, and performance. Together, Gary and Oleg explore how to discover and articulate vision, how to communicate it so it inspires belief, and how to translate it into daily action that drives meaningful results.

They also discuss the personal side of vision — how leaders cultivate inner clarity, courage, and conviction when guiding others through uncertainty.

It’s a profound conversation about what it really means to see further, lead clearer, and build something that lasts.

Originally recorded for The Unlock Moment podcast.

33 The Human Connection: Dean Miles on Coaching, Communication and the Heart of Leadership

gary@garycrotaz.com (Dean Miles, Dr Gary Crotaz PhD) — Sun, 9 Nov 2025 17:35:35 +0000

In this episode of Unlock Your Leadership, Dr Gary Crotaz is joined by Dean Miles — executive coach, trusted advisor, and member of Marshall Goldsmith’s 100 Coaches.

Dean shares his philosophy of leadership as a deeply human practice — built not on authority, but on connection, curiosity, and courage. Drawing on years of coaching senior leaders across industries, he and Gary explore how great leaders communicate with presence, listen to understand rather than respond, and create the conditions for growth in others.

They discuss the craft of real coaching conversations — the kind that move beyond surface-level performance to unlock insight, empathy and change — and why humility and humour are vital leadership tools.

It’s a warm, insightful conversation about coaching as leadership, leadership as service, and connection as the foundation of both.

Originally recorded for The Unlock Moment podcast.

32 Leadership in Balance: Dr Vicki Sato on Science, Strategy and the Human Side of the Boardroom

gary@garycrotaz.com (Vicki Sato, Dr Gary Crotaz PhD) — Sun, 9 Nov 2025 17:22:47 +0000

In this episode of Unlock Your Leadership, Dr Gary Crotaz speaks with Dr Vicki Sato — biopharma innovator, former President of Vertex Pharmaceuticals, and experienced board director at some of the world’s most respected scientific and corporate institutions.

Vicki shares insights from decades at the forefront of science and leadership — from leading groundbreaking innovation in biotechnology to shaping the strategic direction of complex global organisations. She and Gary explore what it takes to lead effectively in the boardroom: balancing data and intuition, confidence and humility, and innovation with integrity.

They also reflect on how great leaders sustain perspective and balance — in their decisions, their relationships, and their lives — when the stakes are high and the pace unrelenting.

It’s a rich, thoughtful conversation about the wisdom, poise, and human clarity behind great scientific leadership, and what it means to bring both intellect and heart to the table.

Originally recorded for The Unlock Moment podcast.

31 Finding Flow: Olympic Champion Joe Jacobi on Leadership, Clarity and the River of Life

gary@garycrotaz.com (Dr Gary Crotaz PhD, Joe Jacobi) — Sun, 9 Nov 2025 12:01:51 +0000

In this episode of Unlock Your Leadership, Dr Gary Crotaz speaks with Joe Jacobi — Olympic gold medallist, performance coach, and author of Slalom.

Joe shares lessons from a lifetime on the river — from the discipline and teamwork that led him to Olympic gold, to the mindset and flow principles that now guide his coaching and leadership work. He and Gary explore how leaders can find calm in turbulence, clarity in complexity, and purpose in motion.

Through vivid stories from sport and life, Joe shows how to lead with intention, respond with grace under pressure, and rediscover flow — that state where performance feels effortless because it’s aligned with who you are.

It’s a powerful, deeply human conversation about leadership, balance, and the art of navigating life’s rapids with clarity and courage.

Originally recorded for The Unlock Moment podcast.

30 Becoming Coachable: Jacquelyn Lane and Scott Osman on the Secret to Transformational Leadership

gary@garycrotaz.com (Dr Gary Crotaz PhD, Scott Osman, Jacquelyn Lane) — Sun, 9 Nov 2025 11:51:08 +0000

In this episode of Unlock Your Leadership, Dr Gary Crotaz sits down with Jacquelyn Lane and Scott Osman, co-authors of Becoming Coachable (with Marshall Goldsmith) and co-founders of 100 Coaches Agency, to explore one of the most powerful and underrated leadership skills: coachability.

Together, they unpack what it really means to be coachable — to move beyond defensiveness, ego and certainty, and open yourself to learning, feedback, and change. Drawing on years of experience working with some of the world’s top CEOs and coaches, Jacquelyn and Scott share practical tools and inspiring stories about how coachability transforms not just performance, but identity.

Gary, Scott and Jacquelyn discuss why great leaders are lifelong learners — and how vulnerability, curiosity, and reflection unlock exponential growth.

It’s an energising and deeply human conversation about how to stay open, adaptable, and teachable — no matter how successful you already are.

Originally recorded for The Unlock Moment podcast.

29 The Inner Game: George Mumford on Mindfulness and the Art of Leadership

gary@garycrotaz.com (Dr Gary Crotaz PhD, George Mumford) — Sun, 9 Nov 2025 11:45:24 +0000

In this episode of Unlock Your Leadership, Dr Gary Crotaz speaks with George Mumford — world-renowned mindfulness coach, speaker, and author of The Mindful Athlete: Achieving Peak Performance Through Mental Strength and Focus.

Known for his work with NBA legends like Michael Jordan and Kobe Bryant, George brings the same wisdom that shaped championship teams to the world of leadership. He and Gary explore what it means to perform — and lead — from a place of inner stillness, awareness, and compassion.

George shares powerful lessons on how to access “the eye of the hurricane” — that state of calm focus where clarity and creativity emerge, even under the greatest pressure. Together, they discuss how mindfulness transforms not only personal performance but also how leaders connect, inspire, and empower others.

It’s a profound and moving conversation about presence, purpose and peace in leadership — and how mastering the inner game unlocks extraordinary results in the outer one.

Originally recorded for The Unlock Moment podcast.

28 What Makes a Great CEO: Chris Brook-Carter on Courage, Clarity and Compassion in Leadership

gary@garycrotaz.com (Dr Gary Crotaz PhD, Chris Brook-Carter) — Sun, 9 Nov 2025 11:41:05 +0000

In this episode of Unlock Your Leadership, Dr Gary Crotaz is joined by Chris Brook-Carter, Chief Executive of the Retail Trust and former Managing Director at IGD, to explore one of the most important questions in business today: what truly makes a great CEO?

Chris draws on years of experience leading complex organisations through disruption and change — from high-pressure commercial environments to purpose-driven transformation. He shares candid reflections on how the best CEOs balance clarity with curiosity, conviction with care, and ambition with empathy.

Together, Gary and Chris unpack the anatomy of modern leadership — what separates good executives from great ones, how to lead through uncertainty with integrity, and why emotional intelligence is now as essential as strategic vision.

It’s a powerful, insider’s view of the mindset and habits that define exceptional CEOs — and a reminder that the future of leadership belongs to those who lead not just with their heads, but with their hearts.

Originally recorded for The Unlock Moment podcast.

27 Lessons from Space: Astronaut Dr Charles Camarda on Courage, Curiosity and Leadership Under Pressure

gary@garycrotaz.com (Dr Gary Crotaz PhD, Dr Charles Camarda) — Sun, 9 Nov 2025 11:35:13 +0000

In this episode of Unlock Your Leadership, Dr Gary Crotaz talks with Dr Charles Camarda — former NASA astronaut, engineer, and founder of the Epic Education Foundation.

From launching aboard Space Shuttle Discovery to investigating the Columbia accident and leading innovation initiatives inside NASA, Charlie has lived leadership in some of the most complex and high-stakes environments imaginable.

He shares what spaceflight — and crisis — taught him about courage, learning, and teamwork, and why curiosity and humility are the most powerful forces driving innovation and trust. Together, Gary and Charlie explore how great leaders create cultures of psychological safety where experimentation thrives and failure becomes fuel for discovery.

It’s an extraordinary conversation about what it means to lead when the stakes couldn’t be higher — and how the mindset of an astronaut can help us all lead with more clarity, creativity, and resilience here on Earth.

Originally recorded for The Unlock Moment podcast.

26 From Start-Up to Grown-Up: Alisa Cohn on Leading Yourself Before You Lead Others

gary@garycrotaz.com (Dr Gary Crotaz PhD, Alisa Cohn) — Sun, 9 Nov 2025 11:29:56 +0000

In this episode of Unlock Your Leadership, Dr Gary Crotaz sits down with Alisa Cohn — one of the world’s top executive coaches and author of From Start-Up to Grown-Up: Grow Your Leadership to Grow Your Business.

Alisa works with founders and leaders at the most pivotal stages of their growth — helping them evolve from running the business to becoming the leader their business needs. In this candid conversation, she and Gary explore a truth too often overlooked: you can’t lead others until you’ve learned to lead yourself.

They dive into what it means to “get in touch with your own stuff” — to understand your triggers, fears, and blind spots — and how that self-awareness becomes the foundation of strong, empathetic, and scalable leadership.

It’s a powerful conversation about emotional intelligence, personal growth, and the evolution from founder to leader — packed with wisdom for anyone building something bigger than themselves.

Originally recorded for The Unlock Moment podcast.

25 Best Team Ever: David Burkus on the Science of High-Performing Teams

gary@garycrotaz.com (David Burkus, Dr Gary Crotaz PhD) — Sun, 9 Nov 2025 11:13:26 +0000

In this episode of Unlock Your Leadership, Dr Gary Crotaz talks with Dr David Burkus — organizational psychologist, keynote speaker, and author of Best Team Ever: The Surprising Science of High-Performing Teams.

David shares powerful, evidence-based insights into what makes teams truly thrive — from psychological safety and shared purpose to belonging and accountability. Together, Gary and David unpack how small leadership shifts can create big cultural changes — transforming teams from functional to phenomenal.

Drawing on cutting-edge research and real-world examples, David shows how great leaders don’t just manage people — they design environments where people do their best work.

It’s a dynamic, actionable conversation that reveals the science — and the soul — of exceptional teamwork.

Originally recorded for The Unlock Moment podcast.

24 Real-Time Leadership: David Noble on Making Winning Moves When the Stakes Are High

gary@garycrotaz.com (Dr Gary Crotaz PhD, David Noble) — Sun, 9 Nov 2025 11:05:43 +0000

In this episode of Unlock Your Leadership, Dr Gary Crotaz is joined by David Noble — executive advisor, strategist, and co-author (with Dr Carol Kauffman) of Real-Time Leadership: Find Your Winning Moves When the Stakes Are High.

David shares powerful insights from years of coaching CEOs and senior leaders navigating complex, high-pressure situations. He and Gary explore what it really means to lead in the moment — to slow down your thinking, expand your perspective, and make choices that align clarity with courage.

Through vivid examples and practical frameworks, David reveals how great leaders move beyond instinct or habit to respond with precision and purpose — even when the pressure is on.

It’s a masterclass in composure, self-awareness and real-time decision-making — for anyone who wants to lead with impact when it matters most.

Originally recorded for The Unlock Moment podcast.

23 The Unlock Journey: Dr Gary Crotaz Reflects on Leadership, Change and Purpose

gary@garycrotaz.com (Dr Gary Crotaz PhD, Beatrice Zornek) — Sun, 9 Nov 2025 10:48:20 +0000

In this special episode of Unlock Your Leadership, the tables are turned. Executive coach and podcast host Dr Gary Crotaz steps out of the interviewer’s chair and into the spotlight, joined by fellow coach Beatrice Zornek for a candid conversation about his own leadership journey.

Together they explore the defining moments that shaped Gary’s path — the transitions, doubts, and breakthroughs that led him from corporate leadership to coaching, writing, and creating The Unlock Moment and The Box of Keys.

Gary reflects on what he’s learned about authenticity, purpose, and trust — and how clarity emerges when you’re willing to pause, question, and listen.

It’s an honest, insightful look at the human side of leadership, full of lessons on courage, reinvention, and staying true to who you are — even when the path ahead is uncertain.

Originally recorded for The Unlock Moment podcast.

22 The Power of Less: Claire Pedrick on Clarity, Coaching and Transformational Conversations

gary@garycrotaz.com (Claire Pedrick, Dr Gary Crotaz PhD) — Sat, 8 Nov 2025 23:34:49 +0000

In this episode of Unlock Your Leadership, Dr Gary Crotaz talks with Claire Pedrick MCC — Master Certified Coach, author of Simplifying Coaching, and one of the most respected voices in the global coaching community.

Claire shares her refreshingly simple philosophy: that great coaching — and great leadership — isn’t about adding more, but about removing what gets in the way. She and Gary explore how presence, curiosity, and trust can turn even the briefest conversation into a moment of transformation.

From leading teams to listening deeply, Claire shows that doing less allows others to do more — and that simplicity, when grounded in attention and care, creates extraordinary results.

It’s a wise, grounded, and deeply human conversation about leading and coaching with clarity, humility, and impact.

Originally recorded for The Unlock Moment podcast.

21 VisuaLeadership: Todd Cherches on Seeing, Thinking and Leading with Clarity

gary@garycrotaz.com (Dr Gary Crotaz PhD, Todd Cherches) — Sat, 8 Nov 2025 23:21:37 +0000

In this episode of Unlock Your Leadership, Dr Gary Crotaz is joined by Todd Cherches — CEO of BigBlueGumball, TEDx speaker, and author of VisuaLeadership: Leveraging the Power of Visual Thinking in Leadership and in Life.

Todd shares how leaders can transform the way they communicate, influence, and inspire — by thinking visually. Through stories, metaphors, and mental imagery, he reveals how the best leaders make complex ideas simple, bring strategy to life, and help people truly see what success looks like.

Gary and Todd explore why visual thinking is more than a creative tool — it’s a leadership superpower that builds clarity, connection, and confidence.

It’s a lively, idea-rich conversation about how to see what you mean and show what you see — and how VisuaLeadership can change the way you lead.

Originally recorded for The Unlock Moment podcast.

20 Empowering People Through Caring Leadership: Germain St-Denis on Strategies That Actually Work

gary@garycrotaz.com (Germain St-Denis, Dr Gary Crotaz PhD) — Sat, 8 Nov 2025 23:07:31 +0000

In this episode of Unlock Your Leadership, Dr Gary Crotaz talks with Germain St-Denis — leadership strategist and author of Empowering People Through Caring Leadership: Strategies That Actually Work.

Germain shares his belief that the best leaders don’t just manage — they care. He and Gary explore what it really means to lead with compassion in today’s fast-changing world, and how genuine care for people drives trust, engagement, and long-term performance.

Drawing on decades of leadership experience, Germain offers practical strategies for turning empathy into action — from daily habits that empower teams to cultures that sustain growth.

It’s a grounded, inspiring conversation that proves caring leadership isn’t soft — it’s smart, strategic, and deeply human.

Originally recorded for The Unlock Moment podcast.

19 Leadership as Catalyst: Dr Richard Osibanjo on Mindset, Momentum and Meaning

gary@garycrotaz.com (Dr Richard Osibanjo, Dr Gary Crotaz PhD) — Sat, 8 Nov 2025 23:02:40 +0000

In this episode of Unlock Your Leadership, Dr Gary Crotaz speaks with Dr Richard Osibanjo — executive coach, transformation strategist, and author of "5 Essential Things Every Leader Must Get Right."

Richard shares lessons from years of helping leaders navigate high-stakes change across industries and cultures. He and Gary explore what it really takes to lead transformation — not just through strategy, but through mindset, empathy, and a deep understanding of human dynamics.

From overcoming resistance and inspiring belief, to creating clarity and trust amid uncertainty, Richard reveals how great leaders ignite change by becoming catalysts themselves.

It’s an energising, insight-packed conversation about the inner work of transformation — and how the most effective change starts from within.

Originally recorded for The Unlock Moment podcast.

18 Disrupt Yourself: Whitney Johnson on the S-Curve of Leadership and Personal Reinvention

gary@garycrotaz.com (Dr Gary Crotaz PhD, Whitney Johnson) — Sat, 8 Nov 2025 22:52:04 +0000

In this episode of Unlock Your Leadership, Dr Gary Crotaz speaks with Whitney Johnson — CEO of Disruption Advisors, Thinkers50 honoree, and best-selling author of Smart Growth and Disrupt Yourself.

Whitney shares her powerful model for understanding personal and professional growth — the S-Curve, a framework for navigating the stages of learning, mastery, and reinvention. Together, Gary and Whitney explore how leaders can use disruption not as a threat, but as an engine for transformation — and how embracing change can unlock both performance and purpose.

It’s a dynamic conversation about growth in all its forms — how to lean into discomfort, accelerate learning, and stay future-ready in a world that never stops changing.

Originally recorded for The Unlock Moment podcast.

17 Don’t Hold Back: Dr Carol Kauffman on Confidence, Courage and Leading in Real Time

gary@garycrotaz.com (Dr Gary Crotaz PhD, Carol Kauffman) — Sat, 8 Nov 2025 22:47:29 +0000

In this episode of Unlock Your Leadership, Dr Gary Crotaz sits down with Dr Carol Kauffman — one of the world’s top executive coaches, founder of the Institute of Coaching at Harvard, and author of Don’t Hold Back: Break Free and Lead with Confidence.

Carol shares powerful, practical insights from decades of working with senior leaders and high performers — exploring what really holds people back from leading with authenticity, confidence and impact. Together, Gary and Carol discuss how to act with courage in the moment, make wise decisions under pressure, and unlock the best version of yourself when it matters most.

It’s a candid, inspiring conversation about leadership in motion — how to show up boldly, respond skillfully, and, as Carol puts it, don’t hold back.

Originally recorded for The Unlock Moment podcast.

16 Leadership in Discovery: Nobel Laureate Dr Robert Lefkowitz on Lessons from a Life in Science

gary@garycrotaz.com (Dr Gary Crotaz PhD, Dr Robert J Lefkowitz) — Sat, 8 Nov 2025 22:40:39 +0000

In this episode of Unlock Your Leadership, Dr Gary Crotaz is joined by Dr Robert Lefkowitz, Nobel Laureate in Chemistry and one of the world’s most celebrated scientists, whose discoveries paved the way for life-saving advances in medicine.

Beyond his groundbreaking research, Dr Lefkowitz reflects on the human side of science — the perseverance, curiosity, and mentorship that define leadership in any field. Together, Gary and Robert explore how a spirit of inquiry can shape not only great discoveries but great leaders — and why humility and humour are just as vital in the lab as in the boardroom.

From navigating uncertainty to inspiring the next generation, this is a rare conversation with a Nobel Prize–winning thinker on what it truly means to lead through curiosity, integrity and purpose.

Originally recorded for The Unlock Moment podcast.

15 The Unsold Mindset: Colin Coggins and Garrett Brown on Authentic Influence and Leadership

gary@garycrotaz.com (Dr Gary Crotaz PhD, Garrett Brown, Colin Coggins) — Sat, 8 Nov 2025 22:34:57 +0000

In this episode of Unlock Your Leadership, Dr Gary Crotaz sits down with Colin Coggins and Garrett Brown, professors at USC Marshall School of Business and co-authors of The Unsold Mindset: Redefining What It Means to Sell.

Together, they challenge the traditional view of selling — and leadership — as persuasion or performance. Instead, they reveal how the most successful and fulfilled people lead and influence through authenticity, curiosity, and a genuine desire to serve others.

Gary, Colin and Garrett unpack the Unsold Mindset — the belief that selling isn’t about closing deals, but about opening relationships — and explore how these same principles can transform the way leaders connect, communicate, and create trust.

It’s a lively, thought-provoking conversation about the power of authentic influence — and how to lead, sell, and succeed without losing yourself.

Originally recorded for The Unlock Moment podcast.

14 Leading with Grace: John Baldoni on Strength, Compassion and Resilience

gary@garycrotaz.com (Dr Gary Crotaz PhD, John Baldoni) — Sat, 8 Nov 2025 22:14:31 +0000

In this episode of Unlock Your Leadership, Dr Gary Crotaz speaks with John Baldoni — world-renowned executive coach, leadership educator, and author of Grace Under Pressure: Leading Through Change and Crisis.

John shares what it really means to lead with grace — combining strength with humility, resolve with compassion, and decisiveness with empathy. Together, Gary and John explore how leaders can remain calm and centred when the world around them feels chaotic, and why grace is not weakness, but a quiet form of power that inspires trust and connection.

Drawing on decades of coaching experience and real-world examples, John offers a roadmap for leading through uncertainty with wisdom, humanity and heart.

This is a masterclass in leadership under pressure — and a reminder that in times of challenge, grace is what keeps leadership human.

Originally recorded for The Unlock Moment podcast.

13 Inside the Minds of High Performers: Dr Ruth Gotian on The Success Factor

gary@garycrotaz.com (Dr Gary Crotaz PhD, Dr Ruth Gotian) — Sat, 8 Nov 2025 22:10:16 +0000

In this episode of Unlock Your Leadership, Dr Gary Crotaz talks with Dr Ruth Gotian — researcher, educator, and author of The Success Factor — about what separates the truly exceptional from the merely excellent.

Drawing on years of research with top performers in science, sport, business, and academia, Ruth reveals the four elements that define sustained success: intrinsic motivation, perseverance, a strong foundation, and continuous learning. Together, Gary and Ruth unpack how these principles translate into everyday leadership — helping you build habits that fuel performance without burning out purpose.

It’s a conversation that blends science and storytelling, offering practical insight into how leaders can cultivate excellence that lasts — not by chasing achievement, but by aligning passion, purpose, and persistence.

Originally recorded for The Unlock Moment podcast.

12 The Leap Beyond: Maika Leibbrandt on Redefining Success After Corporate Life

gary@garycrotaz.com (Maika Leibbrandt, Dr Gary Crotaz PhD) — Sat, 8 Nov 2025 18:05:34 +0000

In this episode of Unlock Your Leadership, Dr Gary Crotaz speaks with Maika Leibbrandt — leadership coach, speaker, and former Gallup executive — about what it really takes to step away from a high-profile corporate role and carve out your own path.

Maika shares her personal journey of rediscovery — how leaving a successful career wasn’t an ending but an invitation to realign with purpose, redefine impact, and reconnect with her authentic voice as a leader. Together, Gary and Maika explore what happens when you let go of external validation, embrace uncertainty, and choose to lead on your own terms.

This is a conversation about courage, clarity and growth — and a powerful reminder that the hardest leadership journey is often the one back to yourself.

Originally recorded for The Unlock Moment podcast.

11 Servant Leadership in Action: Garry Ridge on Trust, Culture and Legacy

gary@garycrotaz.com (Garry Ridge, Dr Gary Crotaz PhD) — Sat, 8 Nov 2025 17:55:05 +0000

In this episode of Unlock Your Leadership, Dr Gary Crotaz sits down with Garry Ridge, the long-time CEO and now Chairman Emeritus of WD-40 Company — and one of the world’s most authentic champions of servant leadership.

Garry shares how he transformed WD-40 from a small, product-focused business into a global culture built on trust, learning and belonging — a “tribe” where people came first and performance naturally followed. Through humility, empathy and a relentless focus on helping others succeed, Garry modelled what it truly means to serve before you lead.

Together, Gary and Garry explore the principles and daily practices of servant leadership — from creating psychological safety to building legacy through love, learning and lasting human connection.

It’s a heartfelt, wisdom-filled conversation that redefines success as service — and shows how putting people at the centre can unlock extraordinary results.

Originally recorded for The Unlock Moment podcast.

10 Anti-Racist Leadership: James D. White on Courage, Culture and Change

gary@garycrotaz.com (Dr Gary Crotaz PhD) — Sat, 8 Nov 2025 17:32:54 +0000

In this episode of Unlock Your Leadership, Dr Gary Crotaz speaks with James D. White — former CEO of Jamba Juice and co-author of Anti-Racist Leadership: How to Transform Corporate Culture in a Race-Conscious World.

James shares his hard-won insights on what it truly means to lead with equity — not as a program or initiative, but as a daily practice of courage, empathy, and accountability. He and Gary explore how leaders can move beyond statements of intent to build cultures that are genuinely inclusive, psychologically safe, and committed to lasting change.

From his journey as a corporate leader to his work guiding organizations toward transformation, James offers a blueprint for the kind of moral and human leadership our times demand.

This is a conversation about doing the inner work to lead the outer change — challenging, inspiring, and essential for every leader shaping the future of work.

Originally recorded for The Unlock Moment podcast.

9 Question Everything: Seth Goldenberg on Radical Curiosity and the Future of Work

gary@garycrotaz.com (Dr Gary Crotaz PhD, Seth Goldenberg) — Sat, 8 Nov 2025 17:24:47 +0000

In this episode of Unlock Your Leadership, Dr Gary Crotaz speaks with Seth Goldenberg — designer, cultural critic, and author of Radical Curiosity: Questioning Commonly Held Beliefs to Imagine Flourishing Futures.

Seth invites us to rediscover the power of asking better questions — to challenge assumptions, disrupt outdated thinking, and reimagine how we lead, work, and live. Together, Gary and Seth explore why curiosity is not just a mindset but a leadership imperative in times of complexity and change.

From boardrooms to classrooms, this conversation explores how radical curiosity can ignite creativity, deepen connection, and unlock the kind of thinking the future demands.

It’s an episode for leaders ready to trade certainty for possibility — and to lead not with all the answers, but with the courage to ask the right questions.

Originally recorded for The Unlock Moment podcast.

8 The Earned Life: Marshall Goldsmith on Purpose, Fulfilment and Leading Without Regret

gary@garycrotaz.com (Dr Marshall Goldsmith, Dr Gary Crotaz PhD) — Sat, 8 Nov 2025 17:17:23 +0000

In this episode of Unlock Your Leadership, Dr Gary Crotaz sits down with legendary executive coach and best-selling author Dr Marshall Goldsmith to explore the ideas behind his acclaimed book The Earned Life.

Marshall shares the profound lessons he’s learned from coaching many of the world’s top leaders — how success and happiness don’t always align, why achievement without meaning leads to emptiness, and what it really takes to live a life that feels earned.

Together, Gary and Marshall dive into what it means to lead with intention, measure success by alignment rather than applause, and continually grow through humility and service.

It’s a deeply human, perspective-shifting conversation — about letting go, showing up, and redefining what it means to truly earn your life.

Originally recorded for The Unlock Moment podcast.

7 You, Me, We: Morag Barrett on the Power of Allyship in Leadership

gary@garycrotaz.com (Morag Barrett, Dr Gary Crotaz PhD) — Sat, 8 Nov 2025 17:08:45 +0000

In this episode of Unlock Your Leadership, Dr Gary Crotaz speaks with Morag Barrett — executive coach, leadership expert, and co-author of You, Me, We: Why We All Need a Friend at Work (and How to Show Up as One!)

Morag shares what decades of coaching senior leaders around the world have revealed about the power of authentic connection — and why the best leaders are those who build strong relationships rooted in trust, empathy, and allyship.

Together, Gary and Morag explore how to lead with relational intelligence, create cultures of belonging, and navigate the human dynamics that define modern leadership.

It’s a powerful reminder that leadership is a team sport — and that the future of work belongs to those who know how to connect, collaborate, and care.

Originally recorded for The Unlock Moment podcast.

6 The Upside of Uncertainty: Professor Nathan Furr on Finding Clarity in the Unknown

gary@garycrotaz.com (Nathan Furr, Dr Gary Crotaz PhD) — Sat, 8 Nov 2025 17:00:31 +0000

In this episode of Unlock Your Leadership, Dr Gary Crotaz is joined by Professor Nathan Furr, innovation expert, INSEAD professor and co-author of The Upside of Uncertainty.

Together they explore a radical reframing of how leaders approach the unknown — seeing uncertainty not as a threat to be controlled, but as the raw material for creativity, growth, and transformation. Nathan shares powerful stories and research insights showing how some of the world’s most effective leaders and innovators learn to navigate ambiguity with curiosity, courage, and calm.

From decision-making in complex systems to cultivating emotional resilience, this is a conversation about how to lead when the map doesn’t exist — and why uncertainty, handled well, can become your greatest leadership advantage.

Originally recorded for The Unlock Moment podcast.

5 Resilience on the Edge: Anthony Fletcher on Overcoming Unseen Challenges as CEO

gary@garycrotaz.com (Anthony Fletcher, Dr Gary Crotaz PhD) — Sat, 8 Nov 2025 16:56:54 +0000

In this episode of Unlock Your Leadership, Dr Gary Crotaz talks with Anthony Fletcher, former CEO of Graze and respected voice on innovation and purpose-driven leadership.

Anthony opens up about the moments that tested him most — the unexpected crises, the hard decisions, and the personal resilience it takes to lead when nothing goes to plan. Together, Gary and Anthony explore what happens when growth meets turbulence, how to stay clear and human under pressure, and why authenticity and courage are the true anchors of leadership in uncertain times.

This is a rare, honest conversation about leadership when it really counts — practical, reflective and deeply relevant for anyone navigating challenge and change.

Originally recorded for The Unlock Moment podcast.

4 Leading Beyond FOMO: Patrick McGinnis on Decision-Making in a Noisy World

gary@garycrotaz.com (Patrick McGinnis, Dr Gary Crotaz PhD) — Sat, 8 Nov 2025 16:45:57 +0000

In this episode of Unlock Your Leadership, Dr Gary Crotaz sits down with Patrick J. McGinnis — venture capitalist, author, and the man who coined FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) and FOBO (Fear of a Better Option).

Patrick shares the story behind how these cultural touchstones were born — and how they’ve shaped the way we think about decision-making, attention, and leadership in the modern world. Together, Gary and Patrick unpack how leaders can move from FOMO to focus, make confident choices amid constant noise, and design a life that’s guided by purpose rather than distraction.

Expect practical insight, sharp humour, and a fresh lens on what it takes to lead decisively in an age of infinite options.

Originally recorded for The Unlock Moment podcast.

3 Fuel for the Future: Simon Alexander Ong on Energy as a Leadership Advantage

gary@garycrotaz.com (Simon Alexander Ong, Dr Gary Crotaz PhD) — Sat, 8 Nov 2025 16:33:28 +0000

In this episode of Unlock Your Leadership, Dr Gary Crotaz talks with Simon Alexander Ong — international keynote speaker, award-winning coach, and author of Energize: Make the Most of Every Moment.

Simon shares the ideas behind his powerful philosophy that energy — not time — is the true currency of leadership. From redefining success and avoiding burnout, to discovering what truly fuels your creativity and influence, Simon and Gary explore how to build a life and career that radiate vitality and purpose.

It’s a conversation about momentum, mindset and meaning — how to energize your leadership from the inside out, and show up with the clarity and drive the future demands.

Originally recorded for The Unlock Moment podcast.

2 Clarity on the Touchline: Leadership Lessons from Football with Tony Walmsley

gary@garycrotaz.com (Tony Walmsley, Dr Gary Crotaz PhD) — Sat, 8 Nov 2025 16:26:21 +0000

In this episode of Unlock Your Leadership, Dr Gary Crotaz sits down with football coach and performance strategist Tony Walmsley, whose career has taken him from elite sport to leadership development and beyond.

Tony shares candid insights from life on the touchline — where every decision is visible, every moment counts, and clarity is the difference between chaos and control. Together, they explore what leadership looks like under pressure, how great coaches create trust and alignment, and why the ability to stay clear-minded in uncertainty is the hallmark of exceptional leaders.

Expect a conversation that bridges sport and strategy, mindset and method — packed with practical wisdom for anyone who wants to perform, inspire and lead with clarity.

Originally recorded for The Unlock Moment podcast.

1 Carving Insight: The Michelangelo Mindset of Leadership with Dr Mark Goulston

gary@garycrotaz.com (Dr Gary Crotaz PhD, Dr Mark Goulston) — Sat, 8 Nov 2025 12:29:58 +0000

In this episode of Unlock Your Leadership with Dr Gary Crotaz, we sit down with world-renowned psychiatrist, executive coach and author Dr Mark Goulston to trace his extraordinary journey — from suicide-prevention and hostage negotiation, to the boardrooms of global organisations — and explore his signature framework: the Michelangelo Leadership (or Michelangelo Mindset).

In our wide-ranging conversation you’ll hear:

How Goulston’s early work with suicidal patients and his technique of “surgical empathy” gave him a unique lens on leadership crisis.

The core idea of the Michelangelo Mindset: subtract the unnecessary, reveal the potential.

What this approach means for modern leaders navigating complexity, disruption and change.

Practical questions you can use to apply this mindset in your team, organisation and next leadership moment.

Whether you’re a senior executive, an emerging leader or someone committed to leading with greater human impact, this episode will give you a fresh lens and actionable ideas for how to become the kind of leader who “sculpts” rather than just “manages”.

Discover how Goulston draws on his decades of working with extreme human moments (including helping “people who are too far gone” choose life) to show how leaders can “see the angel in the marble and carve until they set it free” — i.e., remove what isn’t serving, unleash what’s possible, and lead with empathy, clarity and purpose.

Originally recorded for The Unlock Moment podcast.