The Real Leadership Podcast

I'm your host, Chris Obst; in this episode, I'm tackling a challenge many face this time of year—beating the winter blues. As the cold settles in and the days get darker, it's easy to feel stuck. But together, we'll explore simple yet powerful tips to help you boost your energy and feel your best this season. Whether it's for your well-being or sharpening your leadership edge, remember: no matter the season, there's always an opportunity to keep growing. Let's get started!"

Welcome to the new season of The Real Leadership Podcast!  In this first episode, I explore the idea of "wearing masks" at work and why it’s holding us back as leaders. I’ll break down how showing up as your authentic self builds trust, inspires your team, and drives real results—all in just a few minutes. It’s the perfect way to kick off this season and dive into what it truly means to lead with authenticity. Give it a listen, I’m excited to kick off the season with this important topic.  

Leadership Insights and Loving Your Craft: in this episode, I’m thrilled to bring you a conversation with a true legend in Canadian sports—Paul Dolan! As the first-ever goalkeeper to represent Canada in a World Cup and a distinguished member of the Canada Soccer Hall of Fame, Paul’s journey is nothing short of extraordinary. We explore the leadership lessons he’s learned on and off the field, look into the pressures of leading at the highest levels of sport, and discuss the excitement building up to the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted on Canadian soil. This is an inspiring discussion you won’t want to miss. Tune in and boost your leadership game with insights from one of Canada’s most celebrated athletes.

If you want to increase performance and drive employee engagement and job satisfaction, tune in to this episode. I’ll discuss how leaders can walk the talk, ensuring that the values and principles we preach are genuinely reflected in the everyday experiences of our teams. I will share practical things you can do that don’t cost anything but can significantly impact your employees and their performance. Remember,  “Your company culture is not words on your website or posters on the wall. It’s how your people feel on a Sunday night.” Let’s get started.

For this episode, I’m thrilled to have Jen Muller, a Senior Technical Project Manager at Demonware, a company at the forefront of the gaming industry. We had an enlightening conversation where Jen shared her valuable insights on the importance of mentorship and the crucial role of women in tech. She also discussed the ongoing lack of recognition for women leaders and offered her perspective on breaking barriers and promoting diversity in the industry. Don't miss this inspiring discussion!

Get ready for an insightful conversation with our special guest, Michelle Johnston In this episode, Michelle shares her wisdom on the concept of perfection equating to disconnection, breaking free from shame, and embracing vulnerability. As a leadership expert, Loyola Business Professor and the author of the best-selling book "The Seismic Shift in Leadership," Michelle brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. Tune in as we delve into the transformative power of authenticity, hear heart-warming stories  and explore pathways to authentic leadership.

Join me for the second part of my conversation with Chera Justice, a dynamic multi-passionate expert who blends realms from behavioral studies, public health, and yoga to leadership coaching and clinical psychology. She injects fresh perspectives into the leadership and health coaching scene. Tune in for an inspiring discussion on well-being, navigating life's chaos, resilience, and uncovering keys to a healthier life.

In this episode, I'll talk about a powerful experience I had with horse medicine. You may recall that I've been working with Hillary Schneider, an equine-assisted learning coach, and her herd of 20 wild horses to develop a meaningful experience for leadership professionals. However, this time, I found myself learning an important lesson. I took a moment to reflect on the question, "Who takes care of me?" and the herd came up with the answer.

I am thrilled to introduce Chera Justice, a dynamic multi-passionate expert, seamlessly blending realms from behavioural studies, public health and yoga to Leadership coaching and clinical psychology. She brings fresh air to the leadership and health coaching scene. Tune in for an honest and inspiring conversation on well-being, navigating life's chaos,  resilience  and discovering some keys to a healthier life.

Join me in this first episode of the new season! Whether you're a seasoned road warrior or just getting started, there's a mindset to make your business travel better. Tune in for practical tips that will upgrade your business travels and allow you to return home even better than when you left.