The Leadership Initiative

Hosted by The Ohio State University

Business Management Careers EducationInterviews guests

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Episodes

Latest episode

Aug 2026

Language

EN-US

About the show

Welcome to The Leadership Initiative, where we explore the art and science of leadership to inspire present and future leaders. Join us as we engage in thought-provoking conversations with experts, thought leaders, and change-makers who are eager to share their experiences and evidence-based insights learned along the way. Whether you’re a seasoned leader or just starting your leadership journey, we’re here to provide you with the tools and inspiration to lead with purpose and make a meaningful difference. Together, let’s unlock the secrets to principled leadership and build a future where leaders are a force for positive transformation.

Listen to episodes

35 recent

August 13, 2026Episode 3526 min

Behavioral Intelligence for Better Leadership with Jason P. Carroll of Aptive Index

In this episode, Jason P. Carroll, founder of Aptive Index, explores how behavioral intelligence, self-awareness, and empathy help leaders build high-performing teams, strengthen workplace culture, and make better decisions. Together with host Jen Knox Shanahan, he shares practical strategies for understanding what motivates people, navigating conflict, and using AI to support human judgment and more […]

May 20, 2026Episode 3523 min

AI, Leadership, and Learning: Insights from Dean AC

In this episode of the Leadership Initiative Podcast, Max M. Fisher College of Business Dean Arvind Chandrasekaran shares insights on innovation, AI fluency, ethical leadership, and the future of business education at Fisher College of Business. Dean AC discusses how leaders can build resilient, high-performing teams by combining critical thinking, curiosity, and human-centered leadership in […]

April 23, 2026Episode 3328 min

Balancing Well-Being and Performance with Dr. Laura Little

In this episode, Dr. Laura Little explores how leaders can balance performance and well-being while building trust through emotional intelligence and genuine care for their teams. She also challenges common leadership mindsets, offering practical strategies to shift from problem-focused thinking to more intentional, growth-directed leadership.

April 16, 2026Episode 3231 min

The Power and Pitfalls of Narrow Thinking with Rebecca Greenbaum

This episode of The Leadership Initiative explores how “bottom-line mentality” and narrow thinking shape leadership behavior, revealing how an intense focus on results can both enhance performance and lead to ethical blind spots. Rebecca Greenbaum unpacks the balance leaders must strike between achieving outcomes and maintaining ethical, multidimensional decision-making in today’s organizations.

February 26, 2026Episode 3125 min

The Science of Charismatic Leadership with George Banks

In this episode, join host Ben Tepper and guest George Banks as they explore the science behind charismatic leadership, emphasizing how effective leaders inspire and mobilize others through practice and evidence-based techniques. He also discusses how emerging tools like artificial intelligence and virtual reality are transforming the way leadership skills are taught and developed.

January 29, 2026Episode 3029 min

Redefining Resilience in Leadership with Dr. Julian Barling and Dr. Simon Rego

In this episode, Dr. Julian Barling and Dr. Simon Rego speak with host Jen Knox Shanahan about how leaders can use cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) skills to navigate change, uncertainty, and transition with greater confidence. They explore what resilience really looks like in practice, how to lead hybrid teams intentionally, and preparing for the future […]

January 22, 2026Episode 2929 min

Cognitive Behavioral Tools for Leaders with Dr. Julian Barling and Dr. Simon Rego

In this episode, Dr. Julian Barling and Dr. Simon Rego speak with host Jen Knox Shanahan about how cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT) can support effective leadership by helping leaders manage stress, reframe unhelpful thinking patterns, and improve decision-making. The conversation highlights the role of leadership mindset, mental health, and values-based leadership in sustaining performance and […]

November 13, 2025Episode 2826 min

Everyday Ethics in Leadership with Parag Shah at Nationwide

In this episode, Parag Shah of Nationwide speaks with host Jen Knox Shanahan to break down what ethical leadership looks like in everyday practice, from making clear, values-aligned decisions to fostering trust and psychological safety across teams. He offers practical guidance on how leaders can stay grounded, navigate gray areas, and create workplaces where people […]

October 23, 2025Episode 2742 min

Small Things Make Great Leaders with Dr. Julian Barling

In this episode, Dr. Julian Barling joins host Ben Tepper to discuss how the smallest actions can define truly effective leadership. Together they explore why leadership development and training should start before people move into management roles, the impact of leaders’ mental health on performance, and how evidence-based research can help create stronger, more human-centered […]

September 25, 2025Episode 2650 min

Putting People First with Eric Lenard at Johnson & Johnson

Eric Lenard, VP at Johnson & Johnson, joins Jen Knox Shanahan to share how courageous leadership blends values, risk-taking, empathy, and a culture of learning.