Lea Hegge, a facilitator, coach, and content developer at Catalyzer, shares her journey from non-profit work focused on violence prevention to leadership development. She emphasizes the importance of collective action within organizations and the role of psychological safety in empowering employees. Lea discusses the challenges of managing up, the power of strong relationships, and the need for program evaluation to ensure effective training. She believes that all organizations are fundamentally in the people business and that leadership development should equip individuals with the skills and confidence to drive positive change.

This episode of Mission Ignition Podcast features Aza H. Bittinger Jr., the President and CEO of the Community Bankers Association of Ohio (CBAO), in a conversation about the enduring relevance and future prospects of community banking in Ohio. They delve into the distinguishing features of community banks, highlighting their local ownership, decision-making, and commitment to personal relationships. The discussion explores the challenges of consolidation, attracting talent in a competitive market, and adapting to technological advancements like AI. Throughout the conversation, Aza emphasizes the importance of strong leadership, clear vision, adaptability, and compelling storytelling in securing a bright future for Ohio's community banks.

This podcast is a conversational interview exploring the multifaceted leadership journey of Jon Smidt, a nine-year veteran at Catalyzer. John shares insights into Catalyzer's unique approach to leadership development, which emphasizes facilitated discussions, powerful questions, and creating a safe space for growth. He reflects on his 41-year friendship with the host, marked by shared military experiences and personal milestones. John emphasizes the importance of self-reflection and accountability in leadership, drawing upon his diverse career and personal anecdotes to illustrate key principles. Ultimately, the interview offers a compelling look at the power of introspection and meaningful relationships in shaping effective leadership.

#leadership #accountability #emotionalintelligence #communication #personalgrowth #military #experience #family