Amplified: The Leadership Student 2.0

How Leading with Humanity Changes Everything

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 18:10:03 +0000

Leadership expert Russell Davis shares how servant leadership transforms organizations by centering human dignity. From the Peace Corps to the boardroom, he unpacks how ethical leadership, empathy, and resilience fuel high-performing teams. Join MK Palmore in this episode and discover actionable ways to rebuild trust, lead with intention, and redefine success, not through power but through care, clarity, and connection.

Timestamps

00:00 Meet Russell Davis

02:36 Russell’s Mission and Early Path

04:09 Peace Corps Lessons & Early Leadership Challenges

08:49 What Servant Leadership Really Means

12:17 Surviving a Bonfire Explosion and Resilience

17:54 How Positivity Changes Everything

23:29 Russell’s Empowering Leadership Philosophy

27:17 Rebuilding Trust with Wounded Team Members

31:58 Inside Russell’s Leadership Models and Writings

35:39 Why Ethics Is the Cornerstone of Real Leadership

39:50 Final Thoughts and Where to Learn More

🎙️ Thanks for tuning in to The Leadership Student 2.0 Podcast!
If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to follow/subscribe so you never miss an inspiring conversation.

✨ Connect with Apogee Global RMS for more leadership insights:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mkpalmore/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/apogee_rms/
X/Twitter: https://x.com/apogee_rms

💼 This episode is brought to you by Apogee Global RMS – experts in risk management solutions. Check out their website to learn more about how they can support your business.

Let’s keep growing and leading boldly. Until next time!

It’s Not Money: Why Great Teams Stay

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 18:10:02 +0000

Leadership veteran Brian Little, Chief People Officer at Altera, unpacks the real reason top talent stays—and it’s not just money. From building a spinout culture post-Intel to mastering values-based recruiting, Brian reveals how to craft a high-trust, mission-driven organization that attracts and retains elite performers. Discover why emotional intelligence, personalized recruiting, and real leadership development are non-negotiable for building teams that care deeply and perform exceptionally.

Timestamps:

00:00 Welcome & Introduction to Altera
2:10 Brian’s Path: HR to Leadership
5:05 The State of Leadership Development
7:39 Why It Often Gets Overlooked
9:29 Today’s Recruiting Landscape
14:49 What Motivates Candidates Now
17:09 Recruiting & Candidate Engagement
19:28 Communication’s Role in Hiring
22:29 Real-Life Examples of Effective Leaders
26:47 Emotional Intelligence & Key Traits
32:12 Building Trust Through Transparency
38:03 Why Brian’s Optimistic on Leadership
39:39 Final Thoughts & What’s Next

🎙️ Thanks for tuning in to The Leadership Student 2.0 Podcast!
If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to follow/subscribe so you never miss an inspiring conversation.

💼 This episode is brought to you by Apogee Global RMS – experts in risk management solutions. Check out their website to learn more about how they can support your business.

Let’s keep growing and leading boldly. Until next time!

How EQ and AI Are Shaping Modern Leadership

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 18:10:02 +0000

Explore what it takes to lead in today’s world with HR executive Paul Carney. Learn why emotional intelligence is essential for leadership, how AI is reshaping HR and recruiting, and proven ways to build high-performing teams. Acquire strategies for career growth and organizational strengthening. Subscribe to the podcast and connect with Apogee Global RMS for tailored leadership development solutions. Begin your path to leadership excellence today.

Timestamps

00:00 Introducing Paul Carney

00:50 Defining the Current State of Leadership

01:51 Transitioning from Team Leader to Leader of Leaders

03:56 Personal Leadership Journeys and Career Shifts

06:28 Technical Expertise vs. Leadership Skills

07:59 Passion for Leadership and Teaching

08:55 Can Leadership Be Learned?

12:17 Essential Qualities of Great Leaders

15:49 Learning from Failure

17:22 Practical Advice for Emerging Leaders

22:26 Entering HR and Lessons Learned

23:39 Must-Have Skills for HR Leaders

27:59 Leadership Development and Learning Programs

31:22 Recruiting Trends and Challenges

33:28 Hiring for Critical Thinking Skills

34:37 How to Prepare for Executive Roles

37:54 Writing, Speaking, and Sharing Leadership Insights

38:57 AI’s Impact on the Future of Work

41:10 Final Takeaways

🎙️ Thanks for tuning in to The Leadership Student 2.0 Podcast!
If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to follow/subscribe so you never miss an inspiring conversation.

💼 This episode is brought to you by Apogee Global RMS – experts in risk management solutions. Check out their website to learn more about how they can support your business.

Let’s keep growing and leading boldly. Until next time!

Leading Tough Conversations with Confidence

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 18:10:02 +0000

Leadership today demands courage and compassion. HR executive Jill Washington shares how trust, transparency, and executive coaching strengthen teams and culture. Hear how she rebuilt trust after an unpopular decision, balanced external pressures, and guided leaders through difficult conversations in a changing workplace.

🎧 Listen to Amplified: The Leadership Student 2.0 and explore Apogee Global RMS for tailored leadership coaching solutions.

Timestamps
00:00 Introducing Jill Washington
01:12 Early Leadership Lessons
04:46 Making Unpopular Decisions
09:31 Rebuilding Trust After Change
13:36 Leadership Pressures & External Influences
18:26 Talent Management & Leadership Development
21:35 Leadership in Strategy Meetings
23:21 Executive Recruiting & “Failing Up”
30:48 Difficult Conversations & Performance Management
36:21 HR’s Evolving Role
39:05 Employee Wellness & Mental Health
45:28 Final Thoughts

🎙️ Thanks for tuning in to The Leadership Student 2.0 Podcast!
If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to follow/subscribe so you never miss an inspiring conversation.
✨ Connect with Apogee Global RMS for more leadership insights:

- Website: https://www.apogeeglobalrms.com/
- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mkpalmore/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/apogee_rms/
- X/Twitter: https://x.com/apogee_rms
- 💼 This episode is brought to you by Apogee Global RMS – experts in risk management solutions. Check out their website to learn more about how they can support your business.
- Let’s keep growing and leading boldly. Until next time!

🎙️ Thanks for tuning in to The Leadership Student 2.0 Podcast!
If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to follow/subscribe so you never miss an inspiring conversation.

💼 This episode is brought to you by Apogee Global RMS – experts in risk management solutions. Check out their website to learn more about how they can support your business.

Let’s keep growing and leading boldly. Until next time!

Why Leadership Fails and Strong Culture Wins

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 18:10:01 +0000

Leadership isn’t accidental; it’s intentional.

In this episode, discover how Gallup Strengths and leadership assessments fuel culture, accountability, and long-term performance. Learn why leadership programs often get cut, the evolving role of HR, and the toolkits leaders need for difficult conversations and talent challenges. With stories from the field and proven strategies, you’ll gain insights to grow with clarity, confidence, and impact.

Subscribe or visit Apogee Global RMS for resources.

Timestamps

0:00 Introduction & Guest Welcome

1:10 The Current Landscape of Leadership Development

2:22 Culture, Behavior & Missed Opportunities

5:55 Why Leadership Programs Get Cut

8:03 HR’s Role in Leadership Development

10:30 Practical Toolkits for Leaders That Work

14:13 Teaching Leaders Difficult Conversations

18:51 The Real Value of Leadership Assessments

23:10 Lessons from Great Leaders in Action

25:05 Talent Acquisition Trends & Economic Shifts

28:05 Advice for Job Seekers

30:53 Core Advice for Leadership Development

32:42 Closing Thoughts

Thanks for tuning in to The Leadership Student 2.0 Podcast!

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to follow/subscribe so you never miss an inspiring conversation.

Connect with Apogee Global RMS for more leadership insights:

Website: https://www.apogeeglobalrms.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mkpalmore/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/apogee_rms/
X/Twitter: https://x.com/apogee_rms
This episode is brought to you by Apogee Global RMS – experts in risk management solutions. Check out their website to learn more about how they can support your business.
Let’s keep growing and leading boldly. Until next time!

🎙️ Thanks for tuning in to The Leadership Student 2.0 Podcast!
If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to follow/subscribe so you never miss an inspiring conversation.

💼 This episode is brought to you by Apogee Global RMS – experts in risk management solutions. Check out their website to learn more about how they can support your business.

Let’s keep growing and leading boldly. Until next time!

Women in Tech: Leading with Resolve and Vision

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 18:10:01 +0000

In today’s high-stakes business landscape, leadership goes beyond survival—it demands strategic resilience and bold vision. Cybersecurity expert My-Ngoc Nguyen shares how she navigates economic uncertainty with clarity, adaptability, and strong partnerships. Learn how top leaders communicate effectively, make data-driven decisions, and build mutual partnerships. This episode delivers real-world strategies for thriving as a high-impact leader in times of crisis and change.

Timestamps:

00:00 Current state of corporate leadership
05:16 Leading through tough times
06:06 Surviving economic uncertainty
09:16 Navigating solo decision-making
14:03 Keys to strong partnerships
17:06 My-Ngoc’s ideal team size and structure
18:47 Success metrics
22:12 Why culture shifts as companies grow
25:29 Examples of successful and failed scaling
32:25 Being a woman in tech leadership
38:29 Power of communication
45:13 What My-Ngoc wishes she knew
47:25 Closing thoughts

Thanks for tuning in to The Leadership Student 2.0 Podcast!

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to follow/subscribe so you never miss an inspiring conversation.

Connect with Apogee Global RMS for more leadership insights:

- Website: https://www.apogeeglobalrms.com/

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mkpalmore/

- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/apogee_rms/

- X/Twitter: https://x.com/apogee_rms

This episode is brought to you by Apogee Global RMS – experts in risk management solutions. Check out their website to learn more about how they can support your business.

Let’s keep growing and leading boldly. Until next time!

🎙️ Thanks for tuning in to The Leadership Student 2.0 Podcast!
If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to follow/subscribe so you never miss an inspiring conversation.

💼 This episode is brought to you by Apogee Global RMS – experts in risk management solutions. Check out their website to learn more about how they can support your business.

Let’s keep growing and leading boldly. Until next time!

Engineer to CEO: Mastering Cyber Leadership

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 18:10:01 +0000

In a high-stakes digital world, startups face constant cyber threats. Cybersecurity expert Yasmin Abdi shares her game-changing approach to protecting emerging tech ventures. From college innovator to NoHack's CEO, Yasmin reveals how to build secure infrastructure, democratize cybersecurity, and turn technical challenges into growth opportunities. Ready to safeguard your startup’s future?

Tune in to amplify your leadership with expert strategies that empower founders!

Timestamps:

00:00 Introduction
1:25 NoHack’s origin story
3:29 Yasmin’s journey to CEO
4:59 Leading in Big Tech
6:58 The “Go, get them” mindset
7:29 Key leadership qualities
10:56 Pressures to prove yourself
13:28 Breaking In: Leveraging AI
15:51 Self-discipline in leadership
20:04 Finding the right advisors
21:06 Diversity in tech
27:21 Building culture and reverse mentorship
32:19 The struggles of entrepreneurship
35:04 Being the face of your business
36:57 The importance of quick iteration
38:06 Industry transformation insights
39:39 Personal philosophy & legacy
41:14 Closing remarks and contact info

🎙️ Thanks for tuning in to The Leadership Student 2.0 Podcast!
If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to follow/subscribe so you never miss an inspiring conversation.

💼 This episode is brought to you by Apogee Global RMS – experts in risk management solutions. Check out their website to learn more about how they can support your business.

Let’s keep growing and leading boldly. Until next time!

Beyond Code: Build Influence and Identity in Tech

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 18:10:00 +0000

Your next big move in tech might not be a promotion—it might be learning to say no. Priyanka Vergadia shares how intentional decisions, personal branding, and influence without authority can fuel long-term success. From navigating pivots to building thought leadership, this episode shows you how to take control of your story and stand out.

Listen now and learn how to lead, grow, and thrive—on your terms.

Timestamps:

00:00 Welcome to the Episode

01:07 Introducing Priyanka Vergadia

05:37 Google’s 20% Project

08:28 The Process of Career Introspection

12:21 Intentionality in Career Development

16:00 The Real Secret to Growth in Tech

19:31 Priyanka’s Personal Branding

25:01 How to Influence Without Authority

30:42 Leadership Evolution and Approach

33:19 Being a Woman in Tech

35:00 Excitement Over the Future and AI

36:27 Advice for Breaking Into Tech

38:22 Find Priyanka's Content

39:40 Joining the Apogee Speakers Bureau

41:45 Closing Remarks

🎙️ Thanks for tuning in to The Leadership Student 2.0 Podcast!
If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to follow/subscribe so you never miss an inspiring conversation.

💼 This episode is brought to you by Apogee Global RMS – experts in risk management solutions. Check out their website to learn more about how they can support your business.

Let’s keep growing and leading boldly. Until next time!

Master The Art of Asking the Right Questions

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 18:10:00 +0000

Ever wondered how a single question can change your life?

In this episode, Ken Woodward reveals the transformative power of strategic questioning. Discover how asking the right questions can help you break through personal limitations, uncover hidden strengths, and create new paths to professional and personal success.

Tune in to unlock new levels of self-awareness, leadership, and human connection! Grab a notebook, lean in, and prepare to question everything.

Timestamps
00:00 - 2:12 Introduction
2:13 - 3:50 Ken’s journey on curating questions
3:51 - 6:17 The purpose behind curating questions
6:18 - 7:49 Asking questions goes beyond getting to know people
7:50 - 9:27 How to make better questions
9:28 - 12:08 Ken’s impression of Washington, D.C.
12:09 - 14:11 Developing questions as a getaway to coaching
14:12 - 14:38 What type of coaching does Ken do?
14:39 - 16:58 How to make sure you’re aligned with your client
16:59 - 18:40 Why are people opposed to the idea of seeking coaches
18:41 - 21:14 How to formulate and organize questions
21:15 - 25:54 Most powerful question you can ask
25:55 - 28:21 Self-awareness and responsibility
28:22 - 31:17 The freedom that comes with self-awareness
31:18 - 33:56 Soft skills and individual strengths to nurture growth
33:57 - 36:27 Does technology play a role in coaching?
36:28 - 38:17 AI as a tool for productivity
38:18 - 39:46 Future of coaching and personal projects
39:47 - 42:37 Closing remarks

🎙️ Thanks for tuning in to The Leadership Student 2.0 Podcast!
If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to follow/subscribe so you never miss an inspiring conversation.

💼 This episode is brought to you by Apogee Global RMS – experts in risk management solutions. Check out their website to learn more about how they can support your business.

Let’s keep growing and leading boldly. Until next time!

How Connection-Based Leadership Changes Lives

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 18:09:59 +0000

What if leadership wasn’t about technical skills—but about human connection? David McGurk, a former Army leader and Apogee Global principal, shares hard-won insights from combat zones and command posts, revealing why traditional leadership training fails. In this deeply personal episode, discover why emotional intelligence, self-awareness, and trust—not credentials—drive real performance. Learn how to unlock your people, build resilient cultures, and transform how leadership gets done.

Timestamps
00:00 Welcome & Episode Setup
01:39 Meet David McGurk
03:32 How Great Leadership Changes Lives
07:43 What Sparks True Leadership?
10:19 Mental Health: A Hidden Leadership Crisis
16:03 Why Leadership Training Is Broken
21:03 Leadership: Skills vs. Natural Talent
24:11 Why Apogee Invests in People
28:39 Unlocking Productivity Through People
31:08 Tech’s Role in Leadership Development
35:38 The Market Opportunity for Leadership Training
39:29 Apogee’s Disruptive Model
40:20 Final Takeaways & Where to Connect

🎙️ Thanks for tuning in to The Leadership Student 2.0 Podcast!
If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to follow/subscribe so you never miss an inspiring conversation.

💼 This episode is brought to you by Apogee Global RMS – experts in risk management solutions. Check out their website to learn more about how they can support your business.

Let’s keep growing and leading boldly. Until next time!

Communication Matters: A Leadership Journey

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 18:09:59 +0000

Ever wondered how truly great leaders transform potential into performance?

In this new episode, Bobby Kennedy reveals the leadership playbook that took him from Naval officer to corporate executive and entrepreneur.

Discover the game-changing power of listening—not just hearing, but truly understanding your team's unspoken potential. Kennedy unpacks how communication isn't about talking but creating connections that elevate everyone around you. He shares his radical approach to leadership: developing people is your real legacy, not just completing tasks.

Whether you're a rising manager, aspiring executive, or entrepreneur hungry to unleash your full potential, this conversation will rewire how you think about leadership. Ready to unlock your team's true hidden power? Tune in now and get ready to change.

Timestamps:
0:00 - 2:28 Introduction
2:29 - 4:48 Bobby talks about his background and early interest in leadership
4:49 - 10:31 Being in the Naval Academy and early leadership experiences
10:32 - 12:04 MK’s first impression of Bobby
12:05 - 16:00 Bobby’s self-advocacy and its influence on leadership
16:01 - 23:48 Developing communication skills in corporate spaces
23:49 - 30:26 Most painful lessons about communication and what to avoid
30:27 - 34:33 How to create impact with everything you say
34:34 - 39:17 Bobby’s evolution as a leader
39:18 - 43:21 The key to building a real legacy
43:22 - 48:11 Encouraging team members to grow and building relationships as a leader
48:12 - 49:45 Closing remarks

🎙️ Thanks for tuning in to The Leadership Student 2.0 Podcast!
If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to follow/subscribe so you never miss an inspiring conversation.

💼 This episode is brought to you by Apogee Global RMS – experts in risk management solutions. Check out their website to learn more about how they can support your business.

Let’s keep growing and leading boldly. Until next time!

From Corporate to Startup: Embracing the Entrepreneurial Journey

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 18:09:59 +0000

Startup life is a rollercoaster ride, filled with both exhilarating highs and daunting challenges.

In this episode, we dive deep into the mindset and strategies of a seasoned leader who has navigated the startup world, uncovering invaluable insights on fostering agile teams, maintaining a thriving culture, and scaling a business for long-term success.

Whether you're a budding entrepreneur or a corporate leader seeking to cultivate an innovative mindset, this conversation will equip you with the tools to lead your organization to new heights.

Timestamps:
0:00 Introduction
3:25 Challenges and Attractions of Startup Leadership
6:47 Maintaining Organizational Focus and Culture
12:37 Team Building and Personality Assessments
19:07 Handling Poor Hires and Challenging Conversations
22:54 Leadership Styles and Persnal Growth
24:30 Impact of AI on Leadership
33:39 Evolution of Leaderhsip and Personal Development
34:41 Matt Chiodi’s Podcast and Leadership Insights
39:09 Final Thoughts and Contact Information

🎙️ Thanks for tuning in to The Leadership Student 2.0 Podcast!
If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to follow/subscribe so you never miss an inspiring conversation.

💼 This episode is brought to you by Apogee Global RMS – experts in risk management solutions. Check out their website to learn more about how they can support your business.

Let’s keep growing and leading boldly. Until next time!

Master Leadership Skills with an FBI Veteran

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 18:09:58 +0000

Discover the leadership secrets of a former FBI agent turned corporate coach!

In this episode, Kyle Vowinkel, a former FBI special agent, crisis negotiator, and CEO of Elite Mindsets, shares powerful leadership lessons from his incredible journey.

From making life-or-death decisions in the FBI to coaching leaders at top companies like Google and Aon, Kyle reveals what it takes to build trust, lead under pressure, and elevate team performance.

Learn how he transforms leadership with actionable insights, real-world examples, and practical strategies. Whether you're a seasoned leader or just starting, this episode is packed with tools to help you succeed.

Timestamps:
00:00 Intro
00:37 Introducing Kyle Vowinkel
01:36 FBI career and Elite Mindsets
03:28 Lessons from West Point and the FBI
06:35 Letting go of your ego as a leader
10:14 Aon, Netflix, and the Boston Marathon bomber
15:13 How to truly connect with people
16:51 The need for human-centric leadership
18:32 Finding the courage to speak up
21:00 Creating an environment of safety
23:47 From West Point to FBI executive roles
30:09 Executive leadership challenges
34:14 0vercoming HRT selection failures
40:23 Persistence, hard work, and achieving goals
44:47 Elite Mindsets - keynotes for leadership growth

🎙️ Thanks for tuning in to The Leadership Student 2.0 Podcast!
If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to follow/subscribe so you never miss an inspiring conversation.

💼 This episode is brought to you by Apogee Global RMS – experts in risk management solutions. Check out their website to learn more about how they can support your business.

Let’s keep growing and leading boldly. Until next time!

Your Leadership Journey Begins with Self-Awareness

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 18:09:58 +0000

Explore the evolving world of leadership with Devon Bryan in this deep dive into the complexities of modern team building, remote work dynamics, and the critical role of mentorship.

Devon shares his unique journey as a 5-time CISO, discussing how he navigated difficult conversations, led diverse teams, and pioneered pathways for inclusivity in cybersecurity.

From tackling the challenges of building trust across screens to creating meaningful change within a predominantly white, male-dominated industry, Devon reveals the powerful insights that shaped his career and the lessons that can inspire a new generation of leaders.

Timestamps:
00:00 Introduction
01:28 Discussion on the changes in leadership dynamics due to remote work
04:26 Challenges of having difficult conversations remotely
06:35 Advice for young aspiring leaders on getting their first leadership opportunity
14:45 Perspectives on leadership assessment tools
18:18 Importance of understanding how Devon is perceived as a leader
22:22 Devon's journey with mentorship and its impact
26:41 Challenges of young leaders in the technology space
33:10 Growth of the CISO role and its importance in the executive suite
41:38 Devon's involvement in founding the CyberSys organization

🎙️ Thanks for tuning in to The Leadership Student 2.0 Podcast!
If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to follow/subscribe so you never miss an inspiring conversation.

💼 This episode is brought to you by Apogee Global RMS – experts in risk management solutions. Check out their website to learn more about how they can support your business.

Let’s keep growing and leading boldly. Until next time!

Transforming Talent Acquisition With Data-Driven HR

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 18:09:57 +0000

Leadership is action, not a title. In this episode, discover how HR analytics and AI are transforming talent acquisition, shaping culture, and driving retention. From emotional intelligence to people development ROI, today’s leaders must blend data with empathy to build stronger teams. We also explore Toni Walsh’s Behaviour Change Coaching, where mindset, consistency, and accountability fuel lasting transformation. Tune in for insights to hire smarter, grow culture, and lead boldly.

Timestamps

0:00 Introduction & Guest Welcome

0:35 Early Leadership Lessons and Influences

01:39 The Power of EQ in Leadership

03:12 Servant Leadership and Leadership as Action

04:45 Industry Trends: Leadership Development Successes

07:25 Customizing Leadership Development Programs

08:57 Leadership Pitfalls: Promoting Without Readiness

13:09 Assessing Leadership Readiness

14:50 The ROI of People Development

18:59 Culture’s Impact on Retention and Growth

21:04 The Expanding Role of HR Leaders

26:14 Talent Acquisition: Current Challenges

36:08 Technology, AI, and Analytics in Recruiting

42:07 Final Thoughts on Leadership and Lifelong Learning

43:27 Closing Remarks and Episode Wrap-Up

🎙️ Thanks for tuning in to The Leadership Student 2.0 Podcast!
If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to follow/subscribe so you never miss an inspiring conversation.

💼 This episode is brought to you by Apogee Global RMS – experts in risk management solutions. Check out their website to learn more about how they can support your business.

Let’s keep growing and leading boldly. Until next time!

Building a Culture of Growth and Retention: Secrets from a Tech Leader Bucking Industry Trends

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 18:09:57 +0000

In this episode, you'll gain invaluable insights from Raman Ohri, the CEO of a thriving tech company who has mastered the art of servant leadership.

Discover how he's built a culture of loyalty and longevity by prioritizing his people over profits, and learn practical strategies for fostering deep, meaningful connections even in a rapidly scaling organization. Whether you're a seasoned executive or an aspiring leader, you'll walk away with a renewed understanding of the transformative power of putting your team first.

Tune in to unlock the secrets behind Raman's success and discover how you can apply these principles to elevate your own leadership journey.

Timestamps
0:00 - Introduction
1:24 - Overview of SEP, the software development company where Raman Ohri is CEO
2:15 - Raman's early career and the company culture when he joined
4:15 - Evolution of SEP's culture and focus on investing in talent
7:19 - Benefits of SEP's approach to talent development and retention
9:00 - Collaborative process of streamlining new hire programs
12:21 - Balancing autonomy and decision-making in a technical organization
15:49 - Raman's journey from individual contributor to servant leader
18:13 - Balancing personal fulfillment and leadership responsibilities
21:24 - The concept of "ideal tribe size" and its implications
27:13 - Challenges of leading in a distributed, modern work environment
33:16 - Ramon's approach to annual strategic planning
38:02 - Discussing the role of character in leadership, especially in tech
46:05 - Raman's plans for succession and smooth leadership transition

🎙️ Thanks for tuning in to The Leadership Student 2.0 Podcast!
If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to follow/subscribe so you never miss an inspiring conversation.

💼 This episode is brought to you by Apogee Global RMS – experts in risk management solutions. Check out their website to learn more about how they can support your business.

Let’s keep growing and leading boldly. Until next time!

Leading Through ALS: How Aaron Lazar Rewired His Mindset

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 18:09:56 +0000

What happens when a Broadway star, single father, and high achiever is diagnosed with ALS at the height of his career? In this episode, Aaron Lazar shares how he transformed crisis into conscious healing, rebuilt his identity, and used adversity to deepen purpose, faith, and self-awareness. You’ll learn practical mindset shifts for leaders facing uncertainty. If this resonates, follow the show and explore more leadership insights at Apogee Global RMS.

Timestamps

0:00 – Introducing Aaron Lazar

1:36 – Broadway career, leadership identity, and ALS diagnosis

4:52 – Quad twitching, Google search, and nine months of fear

6:40 – Divorce, identity collapse, and emotional rock bottom

10:25 – How ALS reignited self-belief, faith, and mission

15:33 – Expanding what’s possible through awareness and mindset

27:57 – Fast vs. slow thinking and mental shortcuts

41:58 – The power of the mind and conscious choice

48:14 – Stop being a passenger in your own life

53:52 – Awakening personal power and where to find Aaron

Thanks for tuning in to The Leadership Student 2.0 Podcast!

If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to follow/subscribe so you never miss an inspiring conversation.

Connect with Apogee Global RMS for more leadership insights:

Website: https://www.apogeeglobalrms.com/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mkpalmore/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/apogee_rms/
X/Twitter: https://x.com/apogee_rms

This episode is brought to you by Apogee Global RMS – experts in risk management solutions. Check out their website to learn more about how they can support your business.

Let’s keep growing and leading boldly. Until next time!

🎙️ Thanks for tuning in to The Leadership Student 2.0 Podcast!
If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to follow/subscribe so you never miss an inspiring conversation.

💼 This episode is brought to you by Apogee Global RMS – experts in risk management solutions. Check out their website to learn more about how they can support your business.

Let’s keep growing and leading boldly. Until next time!

From Valet to Visionary: How Jerry South Built a $341M Parking Services Powerhouse

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 18:09:56 +0000

Uncover the grit, hustle, and leadership secrets behind building a $341M parking services empire.

In this captivating conversation, Town Park co-founder Jerry South shares how he scaled his startup from a single valet contract to a nationwide powerhouse - including the tough decisions, winning hiring strategies, and core values that drove his team's remarkable success. Gain the entrepreneurial insights you need to transform your own business and leadership journey.

Don't miss this inspiring episode!

Timestamps:
00:00 - Introduction
01:14 - Formation and initial challenges of Town Park
06:49 - Building and scaling Town Park
12:38 - Hiring and leadership philosophies
17:15 - Cultural values and employee ownership
24:53 - Growth and expansion strategies
38:53 - Exit strategy and legacy
45:15 - Post-Town Park ventures and mentorship

🎙️ Thanks for tuning in to The Leadership Student 2.0 Podcast!
If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to follow/subscribe so you never miss an inspiring conversation.

💼 This episode is brought to you by Apogee Global RMS – experts in risk management solutions. Check out their website to learn more about how they can support your business.

Let’s keep growing and leading boldly. Until next time!

Trust, Context & Connection: Keys to True Leadership

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 18:09:56 +0000

Leadership isn’t about being the hero: it’s about empowering others. In this episode, former FBI agent and U.S. Marine Robin Dreeke reveals how shifting from self-focus to people-first leadership builds trust and transforms teams. Discover four core communication keys, why empathy beats popularity, and how great leaders create space for others to succeed. Ready to lead with impact? Connect with Apogee Global RMS for tailored leadership development solutions.

Timestamps

00:00 Introduction
01:38 Meet Robin Dreeke: Marine, FBI Agent, Author
03:32 What Shaped Robin’s Leadership Philosophy
07:31 Robin’s Bestseller Books
12:13 How to Evaluate Trust in Any Relationship
16:16 Why Trust Is Really About Predictability
19:04 The Shift From Manager to People-First Leader
22:41 Why Empathy Is Your Leadership Superpower
34:14 The Real Challenges Inside Corporate Leadership
36:36 Why Leadership Programs Get Cut and Its Risks
44:33 Closing Thoughts

🎙️ Thanks for tuning in to The Leadership Student 2.0 Podcast!
If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to follow/subscribe so you never miss an inspiring conversation.

💼 This episode is brought to you by Apogee Global RMS – experts in risk management solutions. Check out their website to learn more about how they can support your business.

Let’s keep growing and leading boldly. Until next time!

Mastering Leadership and Negotiation in Global Crisis Events

Mon, 16 Mar 2026 18:09:55 +0000

Explore leadership lessons from Israel’s October 7 crisis and discover how trust, empathy, and negotiation under pressure can redefine enterprise risk management. Guests Adi Rotem and David Zimmermann share hard-won insights from counterterrorism, the FBI, and national security, revealing strategies that apply to boardrooms as much as battlefields. Learn how shifting from control to trust transforms leadership. Subscribe now or visit our website for exclusive resources.

Timestamps

00:00 Why This Podcast Matters

00:52 Meet Adi Rotem & David Zimmermann

07:57 Leadership Philosophies That Shape Success

10:58 Managing vs. Leading

14:51 Lessons Learned from Experience

19:42 Learning from Failure and the Value of Challenges

28:14 Essential Leadership Skills

32:06 October 7th: Crisis Leadership & Negotiation Insights

42:57 Importance of Leadership and Mentorship

45:21 Closing Remarks

🎙️ Thanks for tuning in to The Leadership Student 2.0 Podcast!
If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to follow/subscribe so you never miss an inspiring conversation.

💼 This episode is brought to you by Apogee Global RMS – experts in risk management solutions. Check out their website to learn more about how they can support your business.

Let’s keep growing and leading boldly. Until next time!