Change Proof

Technical organizations face massive scaling pressures, making Resilient Tech Leadership more critical than ever. Host Adam Markel sits down with executive coach Jossie Haines , a former software engineering leader who built Emmy-winning teams at Apple and served as VP of Engineering at Tile. Together, they tackle the high-stakes transitions, burnout, and imposter syndrome that often plague senior tech professionals. Jossie shares her journey from software engineer to leadership coach, detailing how to manage the intense zero-to-one phase without losing your sanity. You'll learn how to build a healthy relationship with negative feedback and build the emotional muscles needed to weather industry crashes. Discover why the secret to scaling high-performing teams lies in clear prioritization, active recovery, and intentional self-belief. Show Notes: 03:26 - Connecting Beyond the Code 07:15 - The Real Value in Your Follow-Up 12:06 - Dismantling the Illusion of Linear Success 16:04 - The Cost of Staying Silent 23:57 - Slaying the Perfectionism Dragon 27:27 - Narrowing Your Ideal Customer Lens 40:02 - Building a Muscle for Hard Truths Get the newest Change Proof Podcast episode delivered directly to you – subscribe here. And, if you’re enjoying the podcast, please give us a 5-star rating on iTunes! For instructions, click here. How do we leverage continuous uncertainty to thrive in this unprecedented new world? The answer is to build the resilience we need to power us through the challenges we face so that we become “Change Proof.” Prepare to tackle the future with confidence by reading Adam’s latest book Change Proof: Leveraging the Power of Uncertainty to Build Long-Term Resilience .

Resilience isn't about pushing through burnout. It's about aligning your business decisions with your personal values. In this episode, Sanjiv Patel , entrepreneur, board advisor, and leadership coach, joins Adam Markel to discuss the reality of leading with heart when the path forward is unclear. They explore the critical difference between reactive leadership and conscious, authentic choices. You’ll learn how to navigate professional crises without sacrificing your integrity. We also break down how to manage your cognitive load and reclaim your role as the CEO of your own life. Stop letting external narratives drive your decisions and start building a foundation of systemic recovery today. Show Notes: 01:27 - Why You Must Lead With Your Heart 14:09 - The Real Cost of Unethical Business 16:48 - Authenticity Over Corporate Masks 26:40 - The Power of the Pause 32:24 - Navigating Media Storms and Trauma 40:45 - Detox Your Digital Life 49:04 - You Always Have A Choice Get the newest Change Proof Podcast episode delivered directly to you – subscribe here. And, if you’re enjoying the podcast, please give us a 5-star rating on iTunes! For instructions click here. How do we leverage continuous uncertainty to thrive in this unprecedented new world? The answer is to build the resilience we need to power us through the challenges we face so that we become “Change Proof.” Prepare to tackle the future with confidence by reading Adam’s latest book Change Proof: Leveraging the Power of Uncertainty to Build Long-Term Resilience .

Chris King , the Director of Corporate Services at the Institute of Nuclear Power Operations and Communications Program Director for the World Association of Nuclear Operators-Atlanta Center , joins the show to discuss how leaders drive safety and excellence. He shares why Strategic Communications is the key tool to align a modern workforce during organizational shifts. Leaders often struggle with team alignment, but building trust on the shop floor changes everything. You'll learn how to break down institutional silos by practicing management by walking around. True leadership requires showing up with complete humility when things don't go according to plan. Show Notes: 00:00 - Breaking Silos Through Connection 02:02 - From Order Takers to Problem Solvers 04:17 - The Power of Walking the Floor 07:09 - Enrolling Your Change Advocates 09:28 - Leading With Authentic Humility 12:20 - Fighting the Danger of Overconfidence 19:51 - Actively Creating Team Margin 26:21 - The Unfinished Pursuit of Excellence Get the newest Change Proof Podcast episode delivered directly to you – subscribe here. And, if you’re enjoying the podcast, please give us a 5-star rating on iTunes! For instructions click here. How do we leverage continuous uncertainty to thrive in this unprecedented new world? The answer is to build the resilience we need to power us through the challenges we face so that we become “Change Proof.” Prepare to tackle the future with confidence by reading Adam’s latest book Change Proof: Leveraging the Power of Uncertainty to Build Long-Term Resilience .

Dugald Topshee is the acting Chief Service and Digital Officer at Transport Canada. In this conversation with Adam Markel, he breaks down what a healthy work culture looks like – and why it does not only depend on delivering results. He explains why leaders must know how to connect high-level goals with technical realities to avoid creating gaps that prevent the development of scalable, easy-to-implement solutions. Dugald also talks about the beauty of building a got-your-back work environment rooted in trust, accountability, and common purpose. Find out how to develop a work culture that truly brings out the best in people and shapes them into highly responsible leaders. Get the newest Change Proof Podcast episode delivered directly to you – subscribe here. And, if you’re enjoying the podcast, please give us a 5-star rating on iTunes! For instructions click here. How do we leverage continuous uncertainty to thrive in this unprecedented new world? The answer is to build the resilience we need to power us through the challenges we face so that we become “Change Proof.” Prepare to tackle the future with confidence by reading Adam’s latest book Change Proof: Leveraging the Power of Uncertainty to Build Long-Term Resilience . Show Notes: 03:32 - Lessons About Mutual Respect From Rugby 07:55 - Working In Public Service 13:43 - Finding People Who Can See Both Small And Big Pictures 18:13 - Learning From Your Failures And Mistakes 22:49 - Why We Need Leaders Who Step Forward And Make Decisions 29:07 - Building A Got-Your-Back Culture 38:34 - Discussion Wrap-up And Closing Words

Achievement is often fueled by a powerful, sometimes destructive, force: the ego. Amy Woodall , expert in mindset and founder of Conscious Habit , knows this firsthand, admitting that she was “determined” to prove people wrong after becoming a mom at a young age. But, as she reveals, chasing success as a means to earn worthiness is a daily mess that will always leave you “damn hungry.” In this candid conversation, Amy shares her journey from a self-professed “horrible manager” to an internationally-sought expert, explaining why the next evolution of work is not just about mind and body, but about interjecting the soul. Discover the simple, five-part Conscious Habit framework that leaders can use to slow their thinking, detach from ego-driven stories, and cure burnout by connecting to the truest part of themselves. Show Notes: 00:33 – Amy’s Background And Founding Conscious Habit 02:36 – The Role Of Ego In Becoming An Entrepreneur 08:22 – Ego Making A Daily Mess And Chasing Worthiness 11:58 – I Am Not My Thoughts; Creating Separation 16:10 – Detaching Ego Stories For Self-Leadership In Organizations 21:33 – The Five-Part Conscious Habit Framework 27:09 – Interjecting The Soul: The Next Evolution Of Work And Curing Burnout 37:27 – Daily Conscious Habit: Unconditional Love And Breathwork

Organizational change management takes center stage as Adam Markel and Richard Carson explore what it really means to lead through constant disruption and uncertainty. Drawing from decades of experience, Richard introduces the often-overlooked change manager role and unpacks how leaders can move beyond reactive decision-making into a more intentional, forward-looking approach to business transformation strategy. The conversation moves through the realities of workplace culture change in a post-pandemic, AI-driven world, highlighting the tension many organizations face between resistance and adaptation. At its core, this exchange circles back to a simple but demanding leadership truth: managing organizational change begins with listening, not control, and the leaders who learn to hear what is happening beneath the surface are the ones best equipped to guide their teams through what comes next. Show Notes: 02:49 From Divination To Management: Defining The Change Manager 05:07 The Listening Post: Bridging The Gap Between C-Suite And Staff 12:00 The Three E’s: A Human-Centric Model For Organizational Health 20:33 Two Cultural Tsunamis: Navigating The Pandemic And AI 27:38 Future-Casting: Moving From Reaction To Strategic Preparation 34:04 Beyond Resistance: Establishing A Proactive Change Function

Dr. Nick Morgan is one of America’s top communication theorists and coaches who founded Public Words Inc , a consulting firm specializing in communications. He joins Adam Markel to discuss how to master the art of public speaking and use it to your business advantage. From harnessing your “sixth sense” to leveraging your most catastrophic experiences, Dr. Morgan breaks down how to craft a captivating story that will attract and inspire your target audience. He also explains how to elevate your public speaking by eliminating the most boring and predictable parts without losing the authenticity of your spoken word. Get the newest Change Proof Podcast episode delivered directly to you – subscribe here. And, if you’re enjoying the podcast, please give us a 5-star rating on iTunes! For instructions click here. How do we leverage continuous uncertainty to thrive in this unprecedented new world? The answer is to build the resilience we need to power us through the challenges we face so that we become “Change Proof.” Prepare to tackle the future with confidence by reading Adam’s latest book Change Proof: Leveraging the Power of Uncertainty to Build Long-Term Resilience . Show Notes: 06:13 - The Art Of Public Speaking With A Purpose 12:57 - Removing Boredom And Predictability In Your Stories 17:42 - How AI Is Changing How Stories Are Written And Told 20:54 - Harnessing The Power Of Your Sixth Sense 25:17 - How Leaders Can Become Powerful Speakers 31:34 - Stories To Tell Yourself In The Face Of Uncertainty 44:08 - Discussion Wrap-up And Closing Words

What if the greatest threat to today’s executives isn’t burnout or failure—but the crushing loneliness no one talks about? In a captivating conversation, bestselling author and executive well-being advocate Nick Jonsson sits down with host Adam Markel to expose a silent epidemic plaguing the corporate world: Executive Loneliness. From elbowing his way to the top of his career to a devastating rock bottom that cost him his job, health, and family, Nick shares the raw, vulnerable story of his V-shaped recovery. This episode is more than just a personal memoir—it's a critical look at the culture of invulnerability, the illusion of success, and the profound power of psychological safety. Discover why working hard isn't always working smart, how repressing emotions can lead to physical illness, and the surprising, instantaneous way a corporate culture can shift when a leader chooses to surrender the fight and speak the truth. If you've ever felt isolated at the top, burned out from the hustle, or struggled to ask for help, this is the essential guide to finding resilience, building trust, and leading with genuine purpose. Show Notes: 02:14 - The Burnout Experience: Not Knowing Any Better 04:12 - Day in the Life: The Insecure Overachiever Mentality 05:55 - Reaching the Top: When Success Isn't Enough 07:05 - The Epiphany: Losing Motivation and Starting the Resignation Path 11:25 - Hitting Rock Bottom: The Psychosomatic Illness 12:10 - The Game-Changer: The First Honest Conversation 16:23 - The Surrender Moment: Acceptance as a Predicate to Recovery 19:12 - Defining Executive Loneliness: Isolation and Fear of Judgment 21:13 - Shifting Company Culture: The Need for Buy-in and a Champion 24:04 - The Power of Vulnerability: A Story of Rehearsed Suicide and Cultural Change 27:57 - Psychological Safety and Personal Transparency 33:23 - Building Trust: Getting to Know Each Other as Human Beings 35:38 - The Challenge of Remote Work: Loneliness and Social Health 40:07 - Personal Definition of Resilience: Falling Forward and Sharing What You Learn

Reclaiming your vitality and optimizing your performance starts with understanding your metabolic health. Host Adam Markel is joined by Mauro Stara , founder of Six Pack CEO , a Peak Performance expert and trusted advisor to successful CEOs and business owners. Mauro, known as "The Last Resort," dives into prioritizing advanced blood work and personalized coaching to tackle the root causes of stagnation, such as hormones and poor metabolic function, which traditional approaches often miss. They explore the vital connection between understanding critical blood markers like homocysteine and lipoprotein(a) and making intentional, empowering choices—the powerful "why"—to achieve lifelong, sustainable transformations and reach your full potential as a leader. Show Notes: 03:10 - Understanding Metabolic Health: The Root Cause Of Disease 06:28 - Taking Control Of Your Health: Beyond Acceptance 10:30 - Advanced Testing Demographics: Why The 40+ Age Group Is Engaged 17:29 - Critical Blood Markers Overlooked: Homocysteine & Lipoprotein(a) 22:10 - Accessing Advanced Blood Panels: Ordering & Doctor Trust 27:48 - The Awareness Factor: Knowing The "Why" Changes Everything 31:02 - The "Why" In Health: Fueling Your Body With Intention 33:19 - The Value Of Coaching: Beyond The Plan To Behavior Change 38:46 - Connecting Health To Peak Performance: The Olympic Mindset 44:32 - Legacy And Prevention: Mauro's Personal Motivation

Ever wondered how to truly cultivate audacity in your life and career? Adam Markel dives deep with three-time Emmy Award-winning broadcaster, author, and keynote speaker Anne Marie Anderson , who shares her inspiring journey through decades of sports television. Discover how her book, Cultivating Audacity , empowers you to dismantle doubt, embrace calculated risks, and achieve success by focusing on actionable resilience and playing to your unique strengths. Anne Marie reveals how to reframe "failure" as valuable data, understand the power of "sports specialization" in business, and navigate the four common barriers to risk-taking—fear, time, money, and your inner critic—transforming them into catalysts for growth. This episode is a must-listen for anyone ready to make audacious moves and build a "front row" of trusted advisors to propel them forward. Show Notes: 04:42 - Resilience Redefined: Data, Not Failure In Athletics 09:34 - Cultivating Audacity: Dismantling Doubt And Letting Yourself Win 12:12 - From Producer To Broadcaster: Anne Marie's Competitive Spirit 19:07 - Shape-Shifting Leadership: Lessons From Phil Jackson 25:25 - Sports Specialization In Business: Playing To Your Strengths 33:46 - Worth It Vs. Reckless Risks: The Front Row Advantage 38:54 - Embracing Imperfection: Anne Marie's First Live TV Experience

Dr. Sam Adeyemi is the CEO of Sam Adeyemi, GLC, Inc . and the founder and executive director of Daystar Leadership Academy (DLA) , where he has trained thousands of individuals in leadership over the past two decades. He joins Adam Markel to share why our attitude is one of the most intangible ingredients in how our lives will ultimately unfold. Dr. Sam explains how attitudes are shaped by the things we consistently see and hear, which take root deep into our subconscious and directly impact our decisions. He also breaks down his SHIFTS framework, a six-step process on how senior managers can shape an equitable and sustainable culture. Show Notes: 01:12 - Why Your Attitude Matters More Than Facts 06:52 - Response-Ability: Harnessing Our Power To Respond 11:45 - Improving Culture Through The SHIFTS Framework 25:11 - The Role Of Attitude In Building A Resilient Self 29:34 - Get In Touch With Dr. Sam And Get His Book 30:52 - Episode Wrap-Up And Closing Words

Leadership resiliency isn’t built in comfort—it’s forged through failure, change, and the relentless pursuit of growth. Mike Lepper , CEO of Impact Networking , shares how his rise from entry-level sales to the C-suite was fueled by grit, adaptability, and a shift from a “driver” mindset to a “multiplier” approach that empowers others to succeed. In this conversation with Adam Markel, Mike unpacks the challenges of promoting great performers into leadership, the role of managers in retention, why culture thrives on transparency and trust, and how embracing change with clear communication builds both personal and organizational strength. Show Notes: 02:37 - From Sales Driver To Multiplier 06:15 - Navigating Leadership Challenges 09:33 - Unlocking Hidden Employee Potential 14:12 - Mastering Organizational Reorganization 22:29 - The Art Of Constructive Feedback 28:17 - Building Team Resilience 30:48 - Mike's Personal Resilience Journey 37:38 Cultivating Organizational Resilience

Step into the intriguing space where deeply ingrained experiences shape your present capabilities, and unlock the profound power of mental and emotional resilience. We're joined by Chris Edwards, MS, NCC, LPC , the insightful director and founder of Neurotherapy of Colorado Springs . He unveils eye-opening perspectives on neuroplasticity and the subtle yet powerful influence of childhood patterns on adult capabilities. Discover why the crucial, often-overlooked, art of recovery is paramount. It’s not just about bouncing back from adversity, but truly "bouncing forward" into peak performance across all facets of life, from the sports arena to the boardroom and beyond. Show Notes: 00:00 - Beyond The Bio: Chris Edwards' Pivot Journey 03:14 - Wall Street Journal Insights: Neurotherapy In Action 07:25 - Visualizing Success: The Power Of Vision Boards 11:55 - Crafting Your Future: Blueprinting Your Best Self 15:21 - The Pressure Cooker: Mastering Mental & Emotional Performance 21:21 - The Bounce Forward Advantage: The ArtOof Recovery 26:48 - Unlocking Potential: Identifying Performance Roadblocks 33:14 - The Recharge Revolution: Sleep, Hydration, And Tech Recovery 40:16 - The Happiness Check: A Moment Of Self-Reflection 44:23 - Your Personal Resilience Playbook: A Snapshot

Ken Bogard is the founder of Know Honesty and author of the book of the same name. In this conversation with Adam Markel, he delves into his mission to help people create genuine connections and live the lives they truly want through effective communication. Ken explains why communication requires openness, honesty, and active listening, all while considering the interests and feelings of the person on the other end. He also discusses how to manage your ego to make it less about building walls for yourself, but more about creating meaningful connections amid today's world of individualism. Show Notes: 02:11 - Ken Bogard Of Know Honesty 05:01 - Being Comfortable With Discomfor 09:45 - Writing ‘Know Honesty’ 14:11 - How To Achieve Effective Communication 20:28 - Letting Go Of Your Ego Pursuit of Honesty Assessment 27:23 38:39 - The Tool Called The Agreement 42:45 - Ken’s Rituals Of Resilience 45:47 - Episode Wrap-Up And Takeaways

Eric Hoplin is the CEO of the National Association of Wholesaler Distributors (NAW) . He joins Adam Markel in this conversation about what it takes to deal with and thrive in a changing environment. Inspired by his experiences as a father and a leader in turbulent markets, he explores the importance of fostering integrity, resiliency, and flexibility. Eric emphasizes patience in decision-making processes, especially when faced when uncertainty, unpredictable trends and pressures from Wall Street. He also discusses how to handle cultural shifts within an organization to achieve transformation, excellence, collaboration, and maximum impact. 01:08 – Eric Hoplin, CEO of NAW 05:33 – Understanding The Why 10:58 – Influence Of Wall Street Over The Market 16:11- Developing Resilience In Leadership 20:29 – Four Aspects Of Cultural Change And Transformation 26:41 – Eric’s Rituals For Resilience 30:38 – Why Integrity And Character Are Important 32:37 – Episode Wrap-up And Closing Words

Step into the world of strategic foresight and dynamic execution as this episode unpacks the nuances of leadership in change. Join Adam Markel as he sits down with Suzanne Ogle , the astute President and CEO of SGA Natural Gas Association and Gas Machinery Research Council. With a career rooted in boardrooms and breakout sessions, Suzanne shares her unique insights as a "multiplier" leader, emphasizing the profound importance of maintaining a future-focused perspective amidst uncertainty. Discover how to effectively build capacity within organizations during times of rapid transformation and why embracing change with purpose is the ultimate currency for leaders today. Show Notes: 01:29 Suzanne Ogle: From Bio To Purpose And Drive 09:56 - Entrepreneurial Spirit: Recognizing Leadership Instincts 12:38 - From Driver To Multiplier: Suzanne's Evolving Leadership Style 19:16 - Business As Nurturing: The Deep Responsibility Of Leaders 26:14 - Pivoting To Success: Overcoming Resistance For Career Growth 34:26 - The Art Of The Designed Pivot: Proactive Career Navigation 37:07 - Workforce Dynamics: Redefining Employee-Employer Agreements 42:21 - Resilience & Purpose: Suzanne's Keys To Navigating Change

Crystal Castille-Cromedy is the SVP of Talent and Head of HR Americas for Hines . She managed to perform well in her career for over 25 years by setting boundaries, knowing when to say no, and never letting herself be consumed by work. Joining Adam Markel, Crystal explains how to build a healthy workplace culture that allows everyone to set boundaries for themselves and feel free to work comfortably. She explains how leaders must actively show the path to success and create an environment where anyone can succeed and thrive. Crystal also emphasizes the importance of providing consistent feedback to your team and having those crucial conversations to guide them toward further improvement and growth. Show Notes: 00:00:47 - Introducing Crystal Castille-Cromedy Of Hines 00:05:04 - Setting The Right Boundaries And Saying No 00:18:59 - Choose Someone To Be Your Technical Mentor 00:24:31 - Modeling Vs. Permission 00:29:41 - Creating A Psychologically Safe Work Environment 00:36:52 - Facing And Navigating Change 00:41:37 - Get In Touch With Crystal And Episode Wrap-up

Your health is your greatest asset, and optimizing it can transform every aspect of your life. Today, Adam Markel is diving deep into the science of health and performance with Dr. Tracy Gapin , a renowned expert in health optimization. This conversation explores the essential strategies for managing stress, improving sleep, and enhancing longevity. Dr. Tracy shares powerful insights on resilience, recovery, and the importance of balancing high performance with well-being. This episode will leave you buzzing with inspiration and ready to rewrite your story of health and performance. Prepare to be utterly captivated and empowered to unleash the extraordinary within! Show Notes: ● 02:40 - Mindset Matters Most In Golf Performance ● 07:52 - Scottie Scheffler And The Cost Of Distraction ● 17:13 - Understanding Sleep Issues And Their Impact ● 28:09 - How Lifestyle Choices Affect Sleep Quality ● 33:44 - Tracking Sleep Data For Better Recovery ● 39:37 - Why Entrepreneurs Prioritize Health For Peak Performance ● 43:03 - Daily Rituals To Manage Stress Effectively

Nellie Wartoft , Founder and CEO of change activation platform Tigerhall , has flipped the script when managing teams. She puts execution at the start of the process, allowing her to refine business strategies like never before. Joining Adam Markel, Nellie explains how leaders should focus more on testing and iterating their operations with tight feedback loops instead of spending way too much time on the planning stage. She underlines why those on top should encourage their teams to make good mistakes that lead to profound learning opportunities. Nellie also opens up about her deep love for EDM, the importance of self-acceptance in a rapidly moving world, and the true value of the human workforce in a highly capitalist world. Show Notes: 00:59 - EDM: The Soundtrack Of Nellie’s Life 11:44 - Implementing A Ready-Fire-Aim Strategy 17:59 - Why Leaders Should Encourage Making Good Mistakes 23:53 - Everything Starts From The CEO 31:58 - The True Value Of Human Beings 40:35 - Episode Wrap-Up And Closing Words

Justin Jones-Fosu , founder and CEO of Work. Meaningful. , is here to discuss why organizational culture requires not just raw strength but also unflinching honesty in order to thrive. Together with Adam Markel, they unpack how truth is the bedrock of resilience that allows organizational cultures to unlock long-term strategic growth over short-term gains. Justin also talks about the role of honesty in turning even the biggest challenges into learning opportunities that drive lasting and impactful change.