Avsnitt

  • Ever wonder why you “click” with some people and “clank” with others?

    DISC is a behavioral assessment tool, kind of like Myers-Briggs Clifton Strengths, but I like it because it only has four Styles.

    In this deep dive episode, I’ll take you through the DISC methodology, how to identify your DISC Profile Style and what to look for in others to identify their Style. You’ll get some tactical and practical takeaways for how to communicate more effectively for each Style. We’ll also go through how to tell your “natural style” and “adapted style” and what to do if they are too far apart.

    I facilitated running DISC reports for my CEO and leadership team as Chief of Staff. It was a great way to get to know each other better, communicate and collaborate more effectively, streamlined and accelerated us “gelling,” and was also fun guessing everyone’s Style.

    Resources:

    Taking Flight

    Assessments 24x7 

    – – – – –

    Timestamps

    00:34 The Power of DISC Report in Leadership

    01:58 Understanding DISC Assessment and Its Importance

    02:41 The Platinum Rule in DISC

    03:18 The Three-Part Framework of DISC

    13:08 The Four DISC Styles: Dominant, Influential, Steady, Conscientious

    16:09 Strengths and Challenges of Each DISC Style

    16:43 The Dominant

    18:42 The Influencer

    20:37 The Steadies

    23:22 The Conscientious Style

    26:08 Importance of Diverse Styles in High Performing Teams

    27:22 Identifying the Best Style for Different Scenarios

    30:00 Understanding Natural and Adapted Styles

    32:52 Adapting Communication Styles for Effective Interactions

    39:32 Understanding Commonalities and Differences in DISC Styles

    41:07 Practical Takeaways and Recommendations

    – – – – –

    Emily Sander is a C-suite executive turned leadership coach. Her corporate career spanned Fortune 500 companies and scrappy start-ups. She is an ICF-certified leadership coach and the author of two books, An Insider’s Perspective on the Chief of Staff and Hacking Executive Leadership. Emily works with early to senior executives to step into effective leadership with one-on-one coaching. Go here to read her story from seasoned executive to knowledgeable coach.

    Get your free Chief of Staff Skills Assessment Checklist here.

    Download your free Chief of Staff Toolkit here.

    To learn more about Emily and Next Level Coaching, click here.

    Follow Emily on LinkedIn | YouTube

  • You’ve heard the analogy used to describe a COS, but is it true? Jim Terheyden was a real-life air traffic controller in the Marines. Hear his take!

    Jim and I also talked about the theme of humility in the role, managing team dynamics, spearheading an overseas initiative, and knowing which balls to drop when you get overwhelmed.

    Jim on LinkedIn

    Smartcar

    Jim Terheyden is a seasoned leadership expert with a rich background as a former Marine air traffic controller, bringing military precision to strategic business guidance. His adeptness at navigating complex team dynamics and steering projects through uncertainty has made him a venerated Chief of Staff in the business world. Jim champions the cultivation of resilience, adaptability, and emotional detachment in decision-making, ensuring organizations thrive even amidst unpredictability. His experience highlights the importance of humility and collaboration, making him a guiding force for companies looking to foster a culture of dynamic leadership and team synergy.

    – – – – –

    Timestamps

    00:55 The Analogy of Air Traffic Controller and Chief of Staff

    01:41 The Invisible Impact of a Chief of Staff

    02:13 The Challenges of Interdepartmental Clashes

    03:48 The Role of a Chief of Staff in a Startup

    06:01 The Importance of Humility and Flexibility in Leadership

    10:48 The Role of a Chief of Staff in Facilitating Team Dynamics

    13:38 The Challenge of Managing a Remote Team

    14:12 The Importance of Trust in a Team

    21:19 The Role of a Chief of Staff in Project Management

    31:16 The Importance of Investing in Your Team

    36:50 Key Takeaways

    – – – – –

    Emily Sander is a C-suite executive turned leadership coach. Her corporate career spanned Fortune 500 companies and scrappy start-ups. She is an ICF-certified leadership coach and the author of two books, An Insider’s Perspective on the Chief of Staff and Hacking Executive Leadership. Emily works with early to senior executives to step into effective leadership with one-on-one coaching. Go here to read her story from seasoned executive to knowledgeable coach.

    Get your free Chief of Staff Skills Assessment Checklist here.

    Download your free Chief of Staff Toolkit here.

    To learn more about Emily and Next Level Coaching, click here.

    Follow Emily on LinkedIn | YouTube

  • Saknas det avsnitt?

    Klicka här för att uppdatera flödet manuellt.

  • Learn how the ranking member of the House Armed Services Committee overcame panic attacks and severe physical pain.

    Emily has a special connection to this Congressman as she served as their intern right after university!

    Hear about the special connection the Congressman had with his Chief of Staff throughout the process.

     

    Read Lost and Broken


    Resources listed in the back of the book:

    American Psychological Association

    Anxiety & Depression Association of America

    Association for Behavioral and Cognitive Therapies

    Find Treatment

    National Institute of Mental Health

    Muscle Activation Techniques

    – – – – –

    Timestamps

    00:09 Book Club: 'Lost and Broken' by Congressman Adam Smith
    00:21 Emily's Special Connection to the Congressman
    01:16 The Role of a Chief of Staff in a Congressman's Journey
    02:03 The Journey of Congressman Adam Smith
    05:47 The Struggles of Imposter Syndrome
    07:26 The Physical and Mental Challenges Faced
    09:40 The Importance of Seeking Help
    11:17 The Role of a Chief of Staff in Crisis Management
    16:39 The Human Side of Leadership 20:07 Quote from the book

    – – – – –

    Free Resources:

    Strategic Planning Checklist 

    Chief of Staff Skills Assessment Checklist

    A Day in the Life of a Chief of Staff

    Chief of Staff Toolkit

    Get in touch with Emily:

    Connect on LinkedIn

    Follow on YouTube

    Learn more about coaching 

    Sign up for the newsletter

    Clarity Call with Emily

     

    WHO AM I?

    If we haven’t yet before - Hi👋 I’m Emily, Chief of Staff turned Executive Leadership Coach. After a thrilling ride up the corporate ladder, I’m focusing on what I love - working with people to realize their professional and personal goals. Through my videos here on this channel, books, podcast guest spots, and newsletter, I share new ideas and practical and tactical tools to help you be more productive and build the career and life you want.

     

  • It’s not every day you get to talk to someone who has lifted a car, helps people tap into their inner and outer strength, and is an NLP and CBT practitioner!

    But that’s what happened in this episode of Leveraging Leadership. Zoe Thompon stopped by and we had a great conversation around building resilience personally and professionally, balancing health and productivity, making choices and saying “yes”, reframing thoughts and acting “as if.”

    Zoe Thompson on LinkedIn

    Phoenix Coaching Website

    Zoe Thompson is a former international strongwoman competitor and a 20-year UK Police Service veteran. Now a transformative strength coach, she leverages her expertise in Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) and Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) to empower individuals in their personal and professional lives. With a deep understanding of resilience and self-discovery, Zoe guides her clients to unlock their full potential, fostering growth through reframing thoughts and actions. Her coaching methods are enriched by her own experiences, where she mastered the art of balancing rigorous competition with single parenthood and a demanding career.

    – – – – –

    Timestamps

    01:32 Zoe Thompson's Background and Journey to Strong Woman Competition

    05:53 The Impact of Physical Challenges on Personal Growth

    10:07 Exploring Neuro Linguistic Programming (NLP)

    13:40 The Power of Perspective and Choice in Personal Development

    20:42 Understanding Emotions and Their Importance

    22:56 The Power of Body Language

    24:22 How Our Physical State Impacts Our Mental State

    25:09 Asserting Presence in Meetings

    31:06 The Importance of Rest and Downtime

    34:42 The Art of Balancing Productivity and Rest

    36:58 Cultural Differences in Expressing Appreciation

    39:03 Connecting with Zoe and Learning More

    – – – – –

    Emily Sander is a C-suite executive turned leadership coach. Her corporate career spanned Fortune 500 companies and scrappy start-ups. She is an ICF-certified leadership coach and the author of two books, An Insider’s Perspective on the Chief of Staff and Hacking Executive Leadership. Emily works with early to senior executives to step into effective leadership with one-on-one coaching. Go here to read her story from seasoned executive to knowledgeable coach.

    Get your free Chief of Staff Skills Assessment Checklist here.

    Download your free Chief of Staff Toolkit here.

    To learn more about Emily and Next Level Coaching, click here.

    Follow Emily on LinkedIn | YouTube

  • This episode is about being a good situational leader when a team member is driving you nuts

    First, make sure you’re using the right word to describe them. Are they truly incompetent (i.e. unable to perform a task, are incapable of it) or is this a training or communication issue - is it a “YOU thing”?

    Are you “bracketing” them correctly? Teams will be made up of three groups, over performers, average (this is not a bad thing, you need these folks), and underperformers.

     – – – – –

    Timestamps

    00:09 Understanding Incompetence in a Team

    00:59 Differentiating Between Incompetence and Different Work Styles

    01:44 Recognizing the Reality of Team Performance

    03:38 The Importance of Diverse Work Styles and Ambitions

    04:28 Addressing True Incompetence

    05:08 Evaluating and Assessing Team Members

    05:59 Conclusion

     – – – – –

    Emily Sander is a C-suite executive turned leadership coach. Her corporate career spanned Fortune 500 companies and scrappy start-ups. She is an ICF-certified leadership coach and the author of two books, An Insider’s Perspective on the Chief of Staff and Hacking Executive Leadership. Emily works with early to senior executives to step into effective leadership with one-on-one coaching. Go here to read her story from seasoned executive to knowledgeable coach.

    Get your free Chief of Staff Skills Assessment Checklist here.

    Download your free Chief of Staff Toolkit here.

    To learn more about Emily and Next Level Coaching, click here.

    Follow Emily on LinkedIn | YouTube

  • Nathan Lian went from working at JP Morgan, to startups, and is our first guest who works as a part-time Chief of Staff. Learn the differences and similarities between a full-time Chief of Staff role. 

    We chat about:

    -       How he selects which companies to work with

    -       How many companies he works with at one time

    -       What kind of projects he works on within companies

    -       Which team members he interacts with

    -       How he keeps himself organized being COS for multiple companies.

    Nathan on LinkedIn

    Nathan is a strategic leadership expert who has seamlessly transitioned from the high-pressure environment of investment banking at JPMorgan to mastering the Chief of Staff role in the fintech startup sphere. As a fractional Chief of Staff, he specializes in navigating companies through critical phases of growth and transformation, leveraging his experience in scaling marketing efforts, strategic finance, and executive team dynamics. Nathan is known for his ability to influence without direct authority and for his dedication to aligning his professional endeavors with his personal values and passion for innovative fintech solutions.

    – – – – –

    Timestamps

    00:43 Nathan's Journey to Chief of Staff

    02:53 The First 90 Days as a Chief of Staff

    06:06 The Challenges of Being a Chief of Staff

    17:38 The Role of a Fractional Chief of Staff

    21:03 Balancing Multiple Projects as a Fractional Chief of Staff

    27:26 Choosing the Right Projects as a Fractional Chief of Staff

    40:23 Advice for Aspiring Chiefs of Staff

    43:21 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

    – – – – –

    Emily Sander is a C-suite executive turned leadership coach. Her corporate career spanned Fortune 500 companies and scrappy start-ups. She is an ICF-certified leadership coach and the author of two books, An Insider’s Perspective on the Chief of Staff and Hacking Executive Leadership. Emily works with early to senior executives to step into effective leadership with one-on-one coaching. Go here to read her story from seasoned executive to knowledgeable coach.

    Get your free Chief of Staff Skills Assessment Checklist here.

    Download your free Chief of Staff Toolkit here.

    To learn more about Emily and Next Level Coaching, click here.

    Follow Emily on LinkedIn | YouTube

     

  • Need to get something done and don’t have time to do the “fully baked” version? Here’s a real-life example of how to break something down into the Minimally Viable Product version. 

    Listen to this example and see how you might apply the equivalent solution in projects you’re working on now. 

    Timestamps

    00:22 Example New Hire Training Program

    01:34 Recording Existing Calls for Video Bank

    02:57 Enhancing Training with Transcripts

    04:28 Incorporating Practical Learning Experiences

    06:19 Establishing Feedback Loops

    08:31 Applying the MVP Approach to Other Tasks

  • In this episode, Emily sits down with her former CFO (and one of her all time favorite people), Rory Liebhart!

    They explore the multifaceted role of the Chief Financial Officer (CF) in today’s business landscape.

    ●     Rory’s journey from selling t-shirts on a doc to a multi-time CFO, President and Director of PE-backed companies

    ●     Collaborating with other executives to drive organizational success (while not avoiding productive tension)

    ●     Navigating financial challenges including budgeting, forecasting, and managing cash flow

    ●     Strategic decision making - balancing financial considerations with broader business objectives

    ●     Adapting to change - how the CFO role has evolved over time

    ●     Providing context and teaching - the importance of providing rationale for decisions

    ●     Internal and external focus - a strong CFO operates both internally and externally (including engagement with investors board members)

    Rory Liebhart on LinkedIn

    Rory Liebhart is an accomplished Chief Financial Officer and private investor known for his exceptional ability to navigate the complexities of executive finance. With a diverse background that includes transforming from a streetwear entrepreneur to a financial maestro, Rory brings a wealth of experience in leading companies through strategic financial planning and analysis. His career, mentored by industry leaders like Ed Barton, has spanned private equity settings and public companies, emphasizing the importance of clear communication and trust in financial leadership. Rory's insights offer invaluable guidance for aspiring business leaders seeking to enhance their acumen.

    – – – – –

    Timestamps

    01:05 Rory's Journey to Leadership

    02:31 The Transition from Selling T-Shirts to CFO

    04:55 The Role of a CFO

    05:14 The Path to Becoming a CFO

    08:45 The Importance of Teamwork in Leadership Roles

    13:03 The Role of a CFO in a Business

    16:19 The Importance of Complementarity in Leadership Roles

    19:33 Interviewing for a CFO Role

    23:08 The Importance of Trust and Open Conversations in a Team

    25:01 Balancing the CFO Role: Being the 'Dr. No' and the Team Player

    27:35 The Importance of Providing Context and Understanding Perspectives

    30:48 Key Qualities of a Good CFO: Context, Understanding, Teaching, and Hiring

    31:40 The Role of a CFO in Internal and External Communication

    41:50 The CFO's Role in a Private Equity Backed Company

    45:59 The Importance of Complementary Skill Sets in an Executive Team

    48:27 Final Thoughts

    – – – – –

    Emily Sander is a C-suite executive turned leadership coach. Her corporate career spanned Fortune 500 companies and scrappy start-ups. She is an ICF-certified leadership coach and the author of two books, An Insider’s Perspective on the Chief of Staff and Hacking Executive Leadership. Emily works with early to senior executives to step into effective leadership with one-on-one coaching. Go here to read her story from seasoned executive to knowledgeable coach.

    Get your free Chief of Staff Skills Assessment Checklist here.

    Download your free Chief of Staff Toolkit here.

    To learn more about Emily and Next Level Coaching, click here.

    Follow Emily on LinkedIn | YouTube

  • Here’s a common scenario when I’m coaching Chiefs of Staff: They describe a situation that’s happening at work and with a shake of the head and furrowed brow they ask, “Is this…normal?”

    Great question, camper! Yes, it’s “normal” in the sense that it’s probably happening to more Chiefs of Staff than you. No, it’s not “normal” in the sense that it might not be the best way to optimize the COS role.

    I run through some quick examples in this episode.

    – – – – –

    Emily Sander is a C-suite executive turned leadership coach. Her corporate career spanned Fortune 500 companies and scrappy start-ups. She is an ICF-certified leadership coach and the author of two books, An Insider’s Perspective on the Chief of Staff and Hacking Executive Leadership. Emily works with early to senior executives to step into effective leadership with one-on-one coaching. Go here to read her story from seasoned executive to knowledgeable coach.

    Get your free Chief of Staff Skills Assessment Checklist here.

    Download your free Chief of Staff Toolkit here.

    To learn more about Emily and Next Level Coaching, click here.

    Follow Emily on LinkedIn | YouTube

  • Erin Lebacqz is an accomplished educator and author of, “High Value Writing.” 

    Upgrade your business communication with the insights of Erin: 

    -       Crafting messages with audience needs in mind

    -       How to communicate with CLARITY

    -       Active voice vs. passive voice, deciding when to use each

    -       What level of directness to use in different scenarios

    -       Nuances of global communication and cultural sensitivities

    -       Rephrasing from a directive to a question

    -       Unspoken rules on emojis

    -       How to build and maintain trust through all channels of communication!

     Examples:

    -       “Do you still need information?” (Is that sentence snarky or helpful?)

    -       “The committee requires/requests your input” (verbs carry tone)

    -       “You need more evidence in the report” / “Page 3 needs more evidence” (who or what is the focus of your sentence?)

    Erin Lebacqz on LinkedIn

    High Value Writing Website

    Erin’s book High Value Writing

     Guest Bio

    Erin empowers professionals to craft impactful messages, with a passion for teaching clear, empathetic dialogue, she assists executive teams in refining their messaging strategies, from boardroom briefs to company-wide announcements. Her transformative book, "High Value Writing," has become an essential guide for business leaders seeking to communicate with clarity and confidence in a globalized workplace.

     – – – – –

    Timestamps

    00:58 Discussing Effective Business Communication

    03:12 Strategies for Effective Group Presentations

    05:26 Considerations for Different Communication Channels

    07:47 The Role of Emojis in Professional Communication

    20:00 Navigating International and Multicultural Communication

    23:18 Building Trust Through Effective Communication

    27:47 Promoting Open Conversations About Communication

    32:14 Conclusion and Resources for Further Learning

    – – – – –

    Emily Sander is a C-suite executive turned leadership coach. Her corporate career spanned Fortune 500 companies and scrappy start-ups. She is an ICF-certified leadership coach and the author of two books, An Insider’s Perspective on the Chief of Staff and Hacking Executive Leadership. Emily works with early to senior executives to step into effective leadership with one-on-one coaching. Go here to read her story from seasoned executive to knowledgeable coach.

     Get your free Chief of Staff Skills Assessment Checklist here.

    Download your free Chief of Staff Toolkit here.

    To learn more about Emily and Next Level Coaching, click here.

    Follow Emily on LinkedIn | YouTube

  • Frustrated because you meticulously and painstakingly pull reports together for leadership and then... no one freaking reads them!? 

    I got you.

    Here’s an unconventional way to tell if people are actually reviewing what you’ve put together: Put weird stuff in the report.

    Pick your audience. Pick your timing. But this can be a fun way to go :) 

    – – – – –

    Timestamps

    00:04 The Problem of Unread Reports

    00:46 Creative Solutions to Grab Attention

    02:01 Testing the Effectiveness of Your Report

    02:35 The Importance of Knowing Your Audience

    02:46 Invitation to Share Your Experience

    03:05 Closing Remarks and Call to Action

    – – – – –

    Emily Sander is a C-suite executive turned leadership coach. Her corporate career spanned Fortune 500 companies and scrappy start-ups. She is an ICF-certified leadership coach and the author of two books, An Insider’s Perspective on the Chief of Staff and Hacking Executive Leadership. Emily works with early to senior executives to step into effective leadership with one-on-one coaching. Go here to read her story from seasoned executive to knowledgeable coach.

    Get your free Chief of Staff Skills Assessment Checklist here.

    Download your free Chief of Staff Toolkit here

    To learn more about Emily and Next Level Coaching, click here.

    Follow Emily on LinkedIn | YouTube

  • Join host, Emily Sander, as she sits down with former Chief of Staff and philanthropist, Kalen Stanton. Emily and Kalen share a unique connection, as he played a pivotal role in supporting her when she initially stepped into the Chief of Staff position.

    Get ready for a laugh as Kalen tells the story of how he ended up in the Chief of Staff role (hint: it’s not the one he applied for). Kalen discusses the different “customer” groups a COS has and how walking the halls and casual conversation can foster trust and uncover innovation within the company. He also gives the latest update on the positive impact he’s having in East Africa.

    Kalen on LinkedIn

    Root Part of Accenture 

    Lion and Leopard Journal

    Kalen Stanton is a former Chief of Staff known for adaptability and strategic innovation in the corporate realm. He mastered leadership by forging his own path and turning casual conversations into trust-building opportunities. His leadership style emphasizes understanding and serving an organization's collective vision, unearthing overlooked ideas, and fostering inclusion. Besides corporate success, Kailin's transformative initiatives in East Africa demonstrate his global leadership philosophy. His experiences make him a valuable resource for those navigating corporate strategy and leadership dynamics.

    – – – – –

    Timestamps

    00:53 Guest Introduction: Kalen Stanton

    02:23 Kalen's Journey to Chief of Staff

    07:18 The Role of Chief of Staff in Building Relationships

    17:33 The Importance of Culture in Leadership

    19:45 The Chief of Staff as a Specialist vs. Generalist

    27:30 Kalen's Experience in East Africa

    32:33 Final Thoughts

    – – – – –

    Emily Sander is a C-suite executive turned leadership coach. Her corporate career spanned Fortune 500 companies and scrappy start-ups. She is an ICF-certified leadership coach and the author of two books, An Insider’s Perspective on the Chief of Staff and Hacking Executive Leadership. Emily works with early to senior executives to step into effective leadership with one-on-one coaching. Go here to read her story from seasoned executive to knowledgeable coach.

    Get your free Chief of Staff Skills Assessment Checklist here.

    Download your free Chief of Staff Toolkit here.

    To learn more about Emily and Next Level Coaching, click here.

    Follow Emily on LinkedIn | YouTube

  • Welcome to our book club episode, featuring  “12 Week Year” by Brian P. Moran and Michael Lennington! You know that feeling you get on New Year's Eve? That fresh start, clean slate vibe? What if you could harness that energy year-round?

    Emily covers:

    Today we’re digging into creating a clear vision and overcoming mindset hurdles (shifting from “impossible” to “it’s a given”) and how to use strategy blocks, buffer blocks, and breakout blocks each week. We also chat about tracking and keeping score and integrating Weekly Accountability Meetings - or WAMs (not to be confused with WHAM!). And let’s not forget about the important difference between being interested and being committed. 

    Stick around to the end to hear about Emily’s three big goals for this 12- Week Year!

     – – – –

    Timestamps

    00:31 Understanding the Concept of Two Lives

    01:26 The Power of a 12 Week Year

    01:54 The Importance of Emotional Connection to Goals

    02:17 Shifting Mindset: From Impossible to Given

    05:18 Developing a 12 Week Plan

    08:00 The Role of Accountability in Achieving Goals

    11:17 The Difference Between Interest and Commitment

    13:14 Implementing the 12 Week Year: Personal Takeaways

    20:18 Conclusion and Invitation for Feedback

     – – – – –

    Emily Sander is a C-suite executive turned leadership coach. Her corporate career spanned Fortune 500 companies and scrappy start-ups. She is an ICF-certified leadership coach and the author of two books, An Insider’s Perspective on the Chief of Staff and Hacking Executive Leadership. Emily works with early to senior executives to step into effective leadership with one-on-one coaching. Go here to read her story from seasoned executive to knowledgeable coach.

    Get your free Chief of Staff Skills Assessment Checklist here.

    Download your free Chief of Staff Toolkit here

    To learn more about Emily and Next Level Coaching, click here.

    Follow Emily on LinkedIn | YouTube

  • In this podcast episode, Emily interviews Debra Boggs, Founder and CEO of D&S Executive Career Management. Debra offers insights on structuring your job search and positioning yourself as a Chief of Staff candidate. Discover effective ways to showcase your work experience, optimize your LinkedIn profile, and master networking. By the episode's end, you'll be equipped to navigate the job market with confidence on your path to becoming a Chief of Staff.

    Connect with Debra on LinkedIn

    Visit D&S Executive Career Management Website

    Guest Bio

    Debra Boggs, co-founder of D&S Executive Career Management, offers bespoke services for executives navigating job market complexities. With expertise in resume crafting, interview preparation, and personal branding, she helps clients present their best selves for high-level positions. Her strategic, person-centered approach focuses on articulating unique value propositions. A member of the Forbes Business Council, she aids clients in landing stretch roles and negotiating salaries. Her work involves optimizing LinkedIn profiles and resumes to resonate with the executive market's specific demands.

    – – – – –

    Timestamps

    01:26 Chief of Staff in Job Search Strategy

    04:02 Breaking into the Chief of Staff Role

    13:25 The Importance of Networking in Job Search

    16:13 Optimizing LinkedIn Presence for Job Search

    19:31 Preparing for Job Interviews

    30:08 The Role of Cover Letters in Job Applications

    33:26 Takeaways

    – – – – –

    Emily Sander is a C-suite executive turned leadership coach. Her corporate career spanned Fortune 500 companies and scrappy start-ups. She is an ICF-certified leadership coach and the author of two books, An Insider’s Perspective on the Chief of Staff and Hacking Executive Leadership. Emily works with early to senior executives to step into effective leadership with one-on-one coaching. Go here to read her story from seasoned executive to knowledgeable coach.

    Get your free Chief of Staff Skills Assessment Checklist here.

    Download your free Chief of Staff Toolkit here.

    To learn more about Emily and Next Level Coaching, click here.

    Follow Emily on LinkedIn | YouTube

  • Got a CEO who's uncharacteristically delaying an important decision that people are waiting on? One possible reason is fear. Emily discusses the critical role of the COS in pushing through this roadblock, including bringing it to their attention (hint: they might not even know it’s a thing), along with practical questions and talk tracks to move them into forward action and next steps.

     – – – – –

    Timestamps

    01:46 Bringing the Decision to the CEO's Attention

    02:18 Strategies to Initiate the Conversation

    04:22 Interpreting the CEO's Response

    05:45 Further Probing and Providing Your Opinion

    08:14 Understanding the Human Side of Leadership

    09:06 Your Role as Chief of Staff

    10:04 Conclusion and Call to Action

    – – – – –

    Emily Sander is a C-suite executive turned leadership coach. Her corporate career spanned Fortune 500 companies and scrappy start-ups. She is an ICF-certified leadership coach and the author of two books, An Insider’s Perspective on the Chief of Staff and Hacking Executive Leadership. Emily works with early to senior executives to step into effective leadership with one-on-one coaching. Go here to read her story from seasoned executive to knowledgeable coach.

     Get your free Chief of Staff Skills Assessment Checklist here.

    Download your free Chief of Staff Toolkit here.

     To learn more about Emily and Next Level Coaching, click here.

    Follow Emily on LinkedIn | YouTube

  • Join us on Leveraging Leadership with former monk Madhu Dasa as he shares his journey from spiritual seeker to business coaching success. Discover how bhakti yoga's disciplines translate into leadership excellence. In this episode, Madhu discusses the power of understanding personal gifts, creating a balanced lifestyle, and finding joy in meditation. Explore themes of mindfulness, self-discovery, and resilience as we discuss blending ancient wisdom with modern productivity hacks. We also delve into understanding your 'big why' and the importance of committing to a schedule. Madhu shares his wisdom on building micro-habits and the benefits of meditation for busy professionals.

     

    Connect with Madhu on LinkedIn

    Visit Madhu.life Website

    Guest Bio

    Former monk Madhu Dasa, now a successful online business coach, blends ancient spiritual wisdom with modern entrepreneurial strategies. His journey from a disciplined monk's life in India to a dynamic business coach has established him as an authority in mindful leadership. Rooted in bhakti yoga practices, Madhu helps professionals tap into their inner wisdom to succeed in the corporate world. His teachings promote a balanced lifestyle, emphasizing mindfulness, meditation, and self-care. He shares his knowledge to inspire others to unlock their potential and introduce a serene touchstone in daily life.

    – – – – –

    Timestamps

    00:51 Guest Introduction: Madhu's Journey from Monk to Entrepreneur

    01:09 Exploring Madhu's Monk Training and Philosophy

    04:57 Applying Monk Principles to Business Leadership

    05:31 Identifying and Leveraging Your Unique Gifts

    13:53 The Importance of Mindfulness in Business

    15:18 Practical Steps to Implement Mindfulness and Clarity

    18:07 The Monk Mindset Method for Success

    19:12 Committing to Regular Behaviors for Success

    19:30 Creating an Ideal Schedule

    19:55 Overcoming Obstacles and Staying Consistent

    20:02 Embracing Change for Different Outcomes

    20:23 Exploring Meditation and Its Varieties

    20:37 Personal Meditation Experiences and Techniques

    21:51 Approaching Meditation as a Busy Professional

    22:01 The Power of One-on-One Coaching

    22:16 Understanding Different Types of Meditation

    23:52 The Importance of Starting Small in Meditation

    30:10 Benefits of Meditation and Achieving Alignment

    34:06 Implementing Meditation in Daily Life

    35:56 Accessing Free Meditation Resources

    – – – – –

    Emily Sander is a C-suite executive turned leadership coach. Her corporate career spanned Fortune 500 companies and scrappy start-ups. She is an ICF-certified leadership coach and the author of two books, An Insider’s Perspective on the Chief of Staff and Hacking Executive Leadership. Emily works with early to senior executives to step into effective leadership with one-on-one coaching. Go here to read her story from seasoned executive to knowledgeable coach.

    Get your free Chief of Staff Skills Assessment Checklist here.

    Download your free Chief of Staff Toolkit here.

    To learn more about Emily and Next Level Coaching, click here.

    Follow Emily on LinkedIn | YouTube

  • What to do when interviewing for a Chief of Staff role and the CEO responds with "I don't know" to key questions about the role's responsibilities and structure. Emily outlines two potential scenarios and outlines how to navigate each situation. Emily also shares ongoing takeaways that every COS should remember. 

    – – – – –

    Timestamps

    00:50 Two Scenarios of CEO's Response

    04:15 How to Interpret 'I Don't Know' from a CEO

    05:34 Key Takeaways for Aspiring Chiefs of Staff

    08:08 Continuing the Conversation about Your Role

    09:28 Conclusion and Next Steps

    – – – – –

    Emily Sander is a C-suite executive turned leadership coach. Her corporate career spanned Fortune 500 companies and scrappy start-ups. She is an ICF-certified leadership coach and the author of two books, An Insider’s Perspective on the Chief of Staff and Hacking Executive Leadership. Emily works with early to senior executives to step into effective leadership with one-on-one coaching. Go here to read her story from seasoned executive to knowledgeable coach.

    Get your free Chief of Staff Skills Assessment Checklist here.

    Download your free Chief of Staff Toolkit here

    To learn more about Emily and Next Level Coaching, click here.

    Follow Emily on LinkedIn | YouTube

  • In this episode of Leveraging Leadership, host Emily Sander, a former Chief of Staff turned Executive Leadership Coach, sits down with Natalie Crohn, who has served as Chief of Staff at two different organizations. The pair share their experiences in the role, with topics from authenticity and networking to the handling of day-to-day challenges and strategic planning, there's plenty of insight to take away. Also, don't miss Natalie's unique Chief of Staff-themed cocktail recommendation. Hit subscribe to continue your leadership journey with us.

    Natalie Crohn on LinkedIn

    Natalie Crohn has expertly navigated a diverse professional journey, from social work to IT consulting, and ultimately, into a strategic Chief of Staff role. She initially started in healthcare, transitioned into IT consulting, and circled back to healthcare, gaining diverse expertise. Natalie discovered her passion for strategic management at Catalent, a biopharmaceutical company, and later expanded her skills as the Chief of Staff at Magellan Health and currently, Johns Hopkins Health. Alongside her career, Natalie actively champions organizational culture, diversity, and inclusion initiatives. Deemed an authentic leader, Natalie is always eager to learn, develop, and serve others.

    – – – – –

    Timestamps

    00:57 Guest Introduction: Natalie Cron

    01:27 Natalie's Journey to Chief of Staff

    05:28 Transitioning Between Chief of Staff Roles

    09:46 The Importance of Authenticity in Leadership

    11:59 The Role of Coaching Fridays in Leadership Development

    17:26 The Importance of Authenticity in the Workplace

    24:12 Advice for New Chiefs of Staff

    28:08 Tools for Staying Organized as a Chief of Staff

    32:09 The Chief of Staff Cocktail: A Fun Analogy

    33:21 Final Thoughts

    – – – – –

    Emily Sander is a C-suite executive turned leadership coach. Her corporate career spanned Fortune 500 companies and scrappy start-ups. She is an ICF-certified leadership coach and the author of two books, An Insider’s Perspective on the Chief of Staff and Hacking Executive Leadership. Emily works with early to senior executives to step into effective leadership with one-on-one coaching. Go here to read her story from seasoned executive to knowledgeable coach.

    Get your free Chief of Staff Skills Assessment Checklist here.

    Download your free Chief of Staff Toolkit here.

    To learn more about Emily and Next Level Coaching, click here.

    Follow Emily on LinkedIn | YouTube

  • Curious about the responsibilities of a Chief of Staff? Emily shares five specific duties in business she handled in her role. From spearheading the recruitment of key executives to revamping marketing strategies and ensuring the CEO's well-being, these examples offer a glimpse into the daily life of a Chief of Staff. Use them to assess whether this role aligns with your own responsibilities, share them with those wondering about the Chief of Staff's duties, or gain valuable insights into the diverse activities this position involves.

    – – – – –

    Timestamps

    01:03 Exploring the Daily Tasks of a Chief of Staff

    02:00 Recruiting and Training Key Hires

    04:51 The Importance of Flash Reports

    08:09 Gap Filling: A Key Responsibility of a Chief of Staff

    10:06 Revamping Corporate Marketing

    12:58 Maintaining CEO Sanity: A Crucial Role of a Chief of Staff

    17:41 Takeaways

    – – – – –

    Emily Sander is a C-suite executive turned leadership coach. Her corporate career spanned Fortune 500 companies and scrappy start-ups. She is an ICF-certified leadership coach and the author of two books, An Insider’s Perspective on the Chief of Staff and Hacking Executive Leadership. Emily works with early to senior executives to step into effective leadership with one-on-one coaching. Go here to read her story from seasoned executive to knowledgeable coach.

    Get your free Chief of Staff Skills Assessment Checklist here.

    Download your free Chief of Staff Toolkit here.

    To learn more about Emily and Next Level Coaching, click here.

    Follow Emily on LinkedIn | YouTube

  • In Leveraging Leadership, Emily Sander interviews Ed Sullivan, Marine Chief of Staff. Ed shares 30 years in the Marines, covering his journey from ROTC cadet to Colonel. The conversation explores proxy roles, leadership challenges, the significance of trust and communication, and high-stakes decisions. They discuss evolving military strategies, personal leadership styles influenced by observation and philosophy, and the discipline required for effective military leadership. Ed's insights provide a behind-the-scenes look at military command roles and highlight the importance of camaraderie in leadership.

    Plus, both Ed and Emily have Meditations by Marcus Aurelias on their bookshelves as a must-read!

    Ed Sullivan on LinkedIn

    Book Reference: Meditations by Marcus Aurelias

    Ed’s Bio

    Ed Sullivan is a retired Marine Chief of Staff with over 30 years of distinguished service. His career began as an ROTC cadet and evolved into various leadership roles, including a foreign area officer and an attache to the Sultan of Oman. Ed's tenure included critical positions in intelligence and information systems for the U.S. Special Operations Command and oversight of Marine Corps recruiting and training operations. His expertise encompasses international diplomacy, strategic decision-making, and a deep commitment to the values and camaraderie of the Marine Corps. Ed's leadership journey reflects a profound dedication to service and excellence.

    – – – – –

    Timestamps

    00:51 Guest Introduction: Ed, the Military Chief of Staff

    01:27 Ed's Journey in the Marines

    07:07 Ed's Experience as a Marine Corps Foreign Area Officer

    08:42 Ed's Transition to Chief of Staff

    11:37 Ed's Role as Chief of Staff at Marine Corps Recruit Depot

    20:28 Understanding the Role of Chief of Staff in a Military Context

    26:44 Building Trust and Communication within the Team

    29:36 Decision-Making in Military Leadership

    32:33 Managing Staff and Operations

    39:33 The Challenges and Solutions in Organizing Family Day

    43:05 The Evolution of Military Leadership

    49:54 The Power of Stoic Philosophy in Leadership

    51:38 Final Thoughts

    – – – – –

    Emily Sander is a C-suite executive turned leadership coach. Her corporate career spanned Fortune 500 companies and scrappy start-ups. She is an ICF-certified leadership coach and the author of two books, An Insider’s Perspective on the Chief of Staff and Hacking Executive Leadership. Emily works with early to senior executives to step into effective leadership with one-on-one coaching. Go here to read her story from seasoned executive to knowledgeable coach.

    Get your free Chief of Staff Skills Assessment Checklist here.

    Download your free Chief of Staff Toolkit here.

    To learn more about Emily and Next Level Coaching, click here.

    Follow Emily on LinkedIn | YouTube