What does it really mean to lead with heart in today’s high-pressure workplaces? In this episode, Mark Crowley shares his powerful journey from a challenging childhood to becoming a leading voice in heart-centered leadership, employee well-being, and emotional intelligence. Through his globally recognized podcast, his writing in Fast Company, and his work as a speaker and consultant, Mark has become a guiding voice for leaders everywhere who want to build workplaces where people truly flourish. Together, we explore how leadership, mental health, and workplace dynamics intersect—and why corporate culture must evolve beyond engagement metrics to truly support people. Mark reflects on the resistance he faced introducing well-being-focused management strategies, the surprising parallels between parenting and leadership, and why prioritizing employee feelings drives stronger performance, loyalty, and long-term growth. As organizations confront burnout, economic uncertainty, and shifting expectations, this conversation offers practical insights into personal growth, leadership accountability, and the future of work grounded in well-being.

Sound bites

"The heart is much more than a pump."

"I was met with a lot of resistance."

"We need to move on from engagement."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Mark Crowley and His Work

04:19 Mark's Personal Journey and Its Impact on Leadership

10:52 The Evolution of Leadership Philosophy

15:27 The Connection Between Employee Well-being and Leadership

22:43 Rethinking Employee Engagement Surveys

24:46 Integrating Well-Being into Leadership Culture

30:36 Addressing Burnout in Leadership

40:54 The Future of Employee Well-Being

45:51 Conclusion and Call to Action

Learn more about Mark C. Crowley’s books and podcast: https://markccrowley.com/

Learn more about The Empathy Collective: https://www.theempathycollective.com/

What does it really take to build an inspired workforce—one where people feel respected, included, and empowered to do their best work? In this episode, Rebecca Dhrimaj sits down with Gary Peterson and Nermana Kuzmanovic of O.C. Tanner to explore how intentional human connection fuels employee engagement and lasting cultural transformation. Through personal stories, practical examples, and candid leadership insights, they unpack why respect isn’t just a value—it’s a daily practice—and how small, meaningful actions can unlock extraordinary human potential at work.

Sound bites

"Creating a human connection leads to incredible business results."

"The greatest thing about this company is respect."

"People feel safe to speak their mind."

"It's a sense of family where human potential becomes alive."

"We want people who want to make a difference in people's lives."

"The power of empowering people unleashes so much more human potential."

Chapters

00:00 Creating an Inspired Workforce

06:29 Personal Journeys and Transformations

12:36 The Power of Inclusion and Belonging

18:06 Measuring Success in Workplace Culture

24:27 Engagement Activities that Inspire30:51 Preparing Future Leaders

41:44 Taking the First Step Towards Change

Learn more about O.C. Tanner: https://www.octanner.com/

Learn more about The Empathy Collective: https://www.theempathycollective.com/

What if the secret to retaining millennials isn’t another perk—but purpose? In this episode, Dr. Katie Thomas unpacks why “purpose is retention” and how connecting everyday tasks to a bigger mission can dramatically boost work engagement. Through the timeless story of three masons—each seeing the same work very differently—we explore why meaning, organizational support, and feeling valued matter more than ever for today’s workforce. If you’re struggling with millennial retention or wondering how to turn “I’m laying bricks” into “I’m building something that matters,” this conversation is a must-listen.

Learn more about Dr. Katie Thomas’s research and take her 7 Blind Spots quiz: https://moremillennialexecutives.com/

Dr. Katie Thomas’s YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@drkatiethomas

Learn more about The Empathy Collective: https://www.theempathycollective.com/