Love in Action

Episode recap 

 

This episode is brought to you by Peak Performers, a nonprofit staffing agency that champions professionals with disabilities. Learn more at www.peakperformers.org. 

 

This week on the Love in Action Podcast, I welcomed back Bob Chapman and Raj Sisodia for a powerful conversation about what happens when leadership is rooted in genuine care. We talk about the 10th anniversary edition of their seminal classic, Everybody Matters, and why the book and movement continue to resonate around the world. We break down why people-centered leadership is more urgent than ever, and how treating people with care, dignity, and respect isn’t just the right thing to do, it’s what builds strong, resilient organizations. If you care about creating workplaces where people actually thrive, this episode is for you. 

 

BOB CHAPMAN is the chairman of Barry-Wehmiller. A sought-after speaker on human-centered leadership, business growth, sustained performance, and culture transformation, Chapman strives to use his business leadership platform to build a better world.  

  

RAJ SISODIA is a cofounder of the Conscious Capitalism movement and a pioneering voice in the global business renaissance. He is the author or coauthor of 16 books, including The New York Times bestseller Conscious Capitalism (with John P. Mackey of Whole Foods Market).  

 

Quotes: 

We have a hunger for caring in the world, and this book addresses caring. 

The way we lead impacts the way people live. 

Business could be the most powerful force for good in the world if we simply knew how to care for the people we have the privilege of leading. 

You cannot ask people to care for others; you must teach them the human skills of caring. 

You cannot lead the people unless you love the people, and you cannot love the people unless you know the people. 

Takeaways: 

Truly Human Leadership reframes business from an economic relationship to a deeply human relationship where people are the purpose. 

Caring is a learnable skill that must be intentionally taught, not just requested or assumed. 

The person you report to at work can affect your health more than your family doctor. 

Most business education still focuses on numbers and profit while bypassing the human heart and soul. 

Conscious, caring leadership positively ripples into marriages, families, and even future generations. 

Timestamps: 

00:00:03 Opening and introduction of Bob Chapman and Raj Sisodia 

00:02:33 Tenth anniversary of Everybody Matters and why it still matters 

00:06:01 Origin story and why the book had to be written 

00:08:02 Lessons from a decade of impact and stress testing through crisis 

00:11:24 How leadership at work shapes health, marriage, and family life 

00:16:15 What business schools still get wrong about leadership and purpose 

00:21:08 How Everybody Matters deepened the idea of conscious capitalism 

00:25:22 What Truly Human Leadership really means beyond just being nice 

00:30:30 Stories of companies transformed by caring cultures 

00:34:04 Why the wrong people often rise and how to rethink who becomes a leader 

00:39:20 A message that can heal business, education, and society 

00:44:18 Love, leadership, and practical caring in everyday management 

00:46:00 Conclusion  

Conclusion: 

This conversation shows that leadership is not about titles or metrics, but about the lives entrusted to you. Bob and Raj reveal that when leaders choose to care, organizations do not just perform better; people become healthier, more hopeful, and more connected at home. They challenge the prevailing belief that profit must come before people and instead show how human dignity and strong business performance can reinforce each other. The episode also exposes how our education and promotion systems neglect the human side of work, and why teaching caring skills is no longer optional. In the end, listeners are invited to see business as a profound opportunity to practice love in action so that, in every workplace, everybody truly matters. 

Links/Resources: 

The Book: https://www.amazon.com/Everybody-Matters-Extraordinary-Caring-People/dp/1591847796/ref=tmm_hrd_swatch_0  

Bob Chapman - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bob-chapman-89b936b8/  

Raj Sisodia - https://rajsisodia.com/  

Barry-Wehmiller - https://www.barrywehmiller.com/  

Conscious Capitalism - https://www.consciouscapitalism.org/   

Truly Human Leadership - https://www.barrywehmiller.com/blog    

Bob Chapman, Episode #6: https://www.marcelschwantes.com/bob-chapman/  

Raj Sisodia, Episode #36: https://www.marcelschwantes.com/raj-sisodia/   

Substack: https://marcelschwantes.substack.com/

Episode recap 

This episode is brought to you by Peak Performers, a nonprofit staffing agency that champions professionals with disabilities. Learn more at www.peakperformers.org

 

If you’ve ever wondered what shaped Ken Blanchard into one of the most trusted leadership voices of our time, this episode offers a rare behind-the-scenes look. I sat down with Martha Lawrence—Ken’s longtime friend, collaborator, and biographer—and what unfolded was a rich mix of humor, history, and heart. In her new book, “Catch People Doing Things Right: How Ken Blanchard Changed the Way the World Leads,” Martha reveal the real Ken. She walks through her own journey as well—how a post-9/11 turning point led her to Blanchard’s organization and eventually to writing the definitive biography that captures his wisdom, quirks, and quiet resilience. 

 

Bio

 

A former editor at Simon & Schuster and Harcourt, Martha C. Lawrence has shaped the voices of some of the world’s most successful thought leaders. As executive editor at Blanchard, she has collaborated with Ken Blanchard for more than 20 years. Her editing credits include multimillion-copy bestsellers and #1 New York Times titles. Lawrence is passionate about leadership, storytelling, and capturing legacies that matter. She is the author “Catch People Doing Things Right: How Ken Blanchard Changed the Way the World Leads.” 

 

Quotes: 

I knew I could not have worked alongside a human being who not only was so innovative and intelligent and heart-centered, but who lived the same things he's teaching. 

If one of the takeaways from the book is that you don't have to be perfect to be successful. 

You want to lift people—you want to catch them doing things right. 

 

Takeaways: 

True leadership is based on humility, trust, and the authentic desire to lift others up. 

Setbacks and personal challenges can become sources of strength and inspiration. 

Servant leadership means supporting your team from the bottom up, not ruling from the top. 

The best leaders are those who make others feel valued and recognized for their contributions. 

Lifelong learning and collaboration can fuel both personal and organizational growth. 

 

Timestamps: 

0:00:00 — Sponsor Message & Podcast Welcome 

0:01:30 — Marcel introduces Ken Blanchard's influence and today’s theme 

0:02:30 — Introducing guest Martha C. Lawrence and her background 

0:05:00 — Martha shares her story and career path 

0:07:30 — Martha discusses overcoming personal adversity 

0:10:54 — How Martha began working with Ken Blanchard 

0:12:54 — Inspiration to write Ken’s biography 

0:16:09 — Ken’s connections and meeting Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. 

0:19:33 — How Ken’s parents shaped his leadership values 

0:21:21 — The inverted pyramid and servant leadership explained 

0:23:13 — Ken’s mentors, co-authors, and learning philosophy 

0:25:07 — Ken’s personal and professional setbacks 

0:27:38 — Ken’s humor and breaking the rules 

0:31:26 — The evolution of Ken’s servant leadership philosophy 

0:33:39 — "The One Minute Manager"—origins and impact 

0:35:54 — Are the principles of "The One Minute Manager" still relevant? 

0:37:51 — Research and surprises from Ken's archives 

0:39:57 — Including love in leadership and chapter discussion 

0:42:42 — What readers can gain from the book; catching people doing things right 

0:45:08 — Distinguishing between care and love in leadership 

0:47:39 — Speed Round: What makes Martha smile, her inspirations, and hopes 

0:53:33 — The big takeaway: Leadership is love 

0:54:25 — Where to find Martha and Ken’s resources online 

0:55:01 — Closing gratitude and episode wrap-up 

 

Conclusion: 

The stories shared in this episode remind us that genuine leadership is shaped by humility, resilience, and compassion. Ken Blanchard’s journey proves that success is rooted as much in character as in achievement. Martha’s perspective brings to life the transformative effect of working alongside a true role model. Their experiences illustrate that lifting other and embracing authenticity can leave a legacy that outlasts any title. As you move forward, ask yourself: how can you lead with more heart in your own life and work? 

 

Links/Resources: 

www.marthalawrence.com

www.blanchard.com

www.kenblanchardbooks.com

Episode #3: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/love-in-action/id1456073489?i=1000433623822

Episode #122: https://www.marcelschwantes.com/ken-blanchard-2/

Episode recap 

 

If you’ve ever wondered what shaped Ken Blanchard into one of the most trusted leadership voices of our time, this episode offers a rare behind-the-scenes look. I sat down with Martha Lawrence—Ken’s longtime friend, collaborator, and biographer—and what unfolded was a rich mix of humor, history, and heart. In her new book, “Catch People Doing Things Right: How Ken Blanchard Changed the Way the World Leads,” Martha reveal the real Ken. She walks through her own journey as well—how a post-9/11 turning point led her to Blanchard’s organization and eventually to writing the definitive biography that captures his wisdom, quirks, and quiet resilience. 

 

Bio

 

A former editor at Simon & Schuster and Harcourt, Martha C. Lawrence has shaped the voices of some of the world’s most successful thought leaders. As executive editor at Blanchard, she has collaborated with Ken Blanchard for more than 20 years. Her editing credits include multimillion-copy bestsellers and #1 New York Times titles. Lawrence is passionate about leadership, storytelling, and capturing legacies that matter. She is the author “Catch People Doing Things Right: How Ken Blanchard Changed the Way the World Leads.” 

 

Quotes: 

I knew I could not have worked alongside a human being who not only was so innovative and intelligent and heart-centered, but who lived the same things he's teaching. 

If one of the takeaways from the book is that you don't have to be perfect to be successful. 

You want to lift people—you want to catch them doing things right. 

Takeaways: 

True leadership is based on humility, trust, and the authentic desire to lift others up. 

Setbacks and personal challenges can become sources of strength and inspiration. 

Servant leadership means supporting your team from the bottom up, not ruling from the top. 

The best leaders are those who make others feel valued and recognized for their contributions. 

Lifelong learning and collaboration can fuel both personal and organizational growth. 

 

Timestamps: 

0:00:00 — Sponsor Message & Podcast Welcome 

0:01:30 — Marcel introduces Ken Blanchard's influence and today’s theme 

0:02:30 — Introducing guest Martha C. Lawrence and her background 

0:05:00 — Martha shares her story and career path 

0:07:30 — Martha discusses overcoming personal adversity 

0:10:54 — How Martha began working with Ken Blanchard 

0:12:54 — Inspiration to write Ken’s biography 

0:16:09 — Ken’s connections and meeting Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. 

0:19:33 — How Ken’s parents shaped his leadership values 

0:21:21 — The inverted pyramid and servant leadership explained 

0:23:13 — Ken’s mentors, co-authors, and learning philosophy 

0:25:07 — Ken’s personal and professional setbacks 

0:27:38 — Ken’s humor and breaking the rules 

0:31:26 — The evolution of Ken’s servant leadership philosophy 

0:33:39 — "The One Minute Manager"—origins and impact 

0:35:54 — Are the principles of "The One Minute Manager" still relevant? 

0:37:51 — Research and surprises from Ken's archives 

0:39:57 — Including love in leadership and chapter discussion 

0:42:42 — What readers can gain from the book; catching people doing things right 

0:45:08 — Distinguishing between care and love in leadership 

0:47:39 — Speed Round: What makes Martha smile, her inspirations, and hopes 

0:53:33 — The big takeaway: Leadership is love 

0:54:25 — Where to find Martha and Ken’s resources online 

0:55:01 — Closing gratitude and episode wrap-up 

 

Conclusion: 

The stories shared in this episode remind us that genuine leadership is shaped by humility, resilience, and compassion. Ken Blanchard’s journey proves that success is rooted as much in character as in achievement. Martha’s perspective brings to life the transformative effect of working alongside a true role model. Their experiences illustrate that lifting other and embracing authenticity can leave a legacy that outlasts any title. As you move forward, ask yourself: how can you lead with more heart in your own life and work? 

 

Links/Resources: 

Martha’s Website: https://marthalawrence.com/author  

Blanchard on LinkedIn (Company Page): https://www.linkedin.com/company/blanchardleadership/  

Martha Lawrence on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marthaclawrence/  

Books “Catching People Doing Things Right”: https://a.co/d/4DYUcKD   

Substack: https://marcelschwantes.substack.com/      

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcelschwantes/  

Twitter/X: https://x.com/MarcelSchwantes  

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9fO2r_ZQ3wy5ie522f-DTQ  

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marcel.schwantes/

This episode is brought to you by Peak Performers, a nonprofit staffing agency that champions professionals with disabilities. Learn more at www.peakperformers.org  

 

Episode recap: 

 

Today’s guest is Bree Sarlati, President and CEO of Peak Performers, a nonprofit staffing agency that champions professionals with disabilities. Sarlati is leading Peak Performers’ mission to raise the standard of employment for people with disabilities. She breaks down the biases that still shape hiring and explains how Peak is proving that skilled talent is everywhere. We discuss how to build inclusive teams and how Peak is scaling nationally while staying deeply human-centered. Bree also shares their “Talent Without Limits” initiative and explains how her team is integrating AI into recruiting without losing empathy or accountability. 

 

BIO:

 

Bree Sarlati is a pragmatic strategist known for turning complexity into clarity. As CEO of Peak Performers, Bree has led the organization's national expansion, modernizing operations, embracing new technology, and scaling its mission beyond Texas. Her focus on agility ensures that even as Peak grows, it never loses the human touch that defines its work. Bree has a talent for spotting potential that others miss and for connecting people with opportunities that move them forward. Passionate about disability employment and gender equity in leadership, she champions fair, future-ready systems and brings clarity, curiosity, and a people-first approach when the stakes are high.

 

Quotes: 

Our mission as a non-profit has always been to set a higher standard of employment for people with disabilities. 

We stay focused on the candidates who are going through one of the most stressful experiences of their lives, which is job searching. That's a time when we should be very aware of people's human-level needs. 

A CEO always needs to be looking inward and asking, 'What skills do I need to add to take this organization to where I want it to go? 

Takeaways: 

Inclusive hiring unlocks hidden talent and drives organizational success. 

Disabilities encompass many unseen conditions and should be understood broadly. 

Technology can scale impact without sacrificing the human connection in recruiting. 

Agile leadership starts with self-awareness and adapting to constant change. 

Empathy and respect should guide all workplace interactions and decision-making. 

Timestamps: 

00:00:00 Introduction and Overview of Peak Performers 

00:02:30 Bree Sarlati’s Journey and Passion for Storytelling 

00:08:40 Peak Performers’ Mission and Redefining Disability Employment 

00:14:20 Challenges and Evolution in Disability-Inclusive Hiring 

00:21:00 The Importance of Agility and Leadership Self-Awareness 

00:26:30 Building Agile, Human-Centered Teams 

00:32:00 Leveraging Technology Without Losing the Human Touch 

00:36:30 The “Talent Without Limits” Initiative 

00:41:00 The Role of Empathy, AI, and Creativity in Modern Recruiting 

00:45:30 Leading with Love, Key Takeaways, and Final Thoughts 

00:49:00 Connecting with Bree Sarlati and Closing Remarks 

 

Conclusion: 

As this inspiring conversation draws to a close, reflect on how inclusive hiring can transform both businesses and lives. We have learned that true agility in leadership comes from embracing change with empathy and purpose. Peak Performers shows us that technology and human connection can coexist to build workplaces of belonging. The journey to future-ready teams begins by recognizing untapped potential and challenging our own assumptions. Let us carry these lessons forward and strive to create workplaces where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. 

 

Links/Resources: 

Peak Performers Website: https://www.peakperformers.org/  

Peak Performers on LinkedIn (Company Page): https://www.linkedin.com/company/peak-performers-staffing-agency/  

Bree Sarlati on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/bree-sarlati/

Don’t forget Marcel’s special offer to join his Substack community. Subscribe here:

https://marcelschwantes.substack.com/subscribe

 

Episode recap:

This episode explores a quiet but powerful turning point many high-achieving leaders face in midlife, when success no longer feels fulfilling. It names the real issue—not burnout, but misalignment between a leader’s outer accomplishments and inner values—and reframes it as a necessary recalibration rather than a crisis. Through reflection, values realignment, and intentional listening, leaders can reconnect with meaning, purpose, and a more authentic way of leading and living.

 

Bio:

Marcel Schwantes is a speaker, author, and acclaimed executive coach with a global following. Recognized by Inc. Magazine as one of the Top 50 Leadership and Management Experts in 2025, Marcel’s thought leadership reaches millions each month through global media like Inc., Time, Fast Company, Business Insider, and Forbes. Marcel delivers presentations, workshops, courses, and coaching programs about the human side of business and how cultures of care,  connection, and belonging power companies to thrive and outperform the competition.

 

Quotes: 

True fulfillment begins when you pause to listen to your inner voice, not just your outer achievements. 

The greatest crisis we face in midlife is not failure but living a life out of alignment with who we truly are. 

Success without meaning will always leave you feeling restless and incomplete. 

When you dare to revisit your core values, you rediscover the energy and purpose that fuel your next chapter. 

Your next breakthrough starts when you ask what decision moves you closer to who you are becoming. 

 

Takeaways: 

External accomplishments alone cannot bring lasting fulfillment without inner alignment. 

Regular stillness and reflection are essential to connect with your true values and desires. 

Midlife is not a crisis, but a powerful opportunity for recalibration and growth. 

Simple daily questions and journaling can reveal the real story of who you are now. 

Realigning your life with your authentic self opens the door to deeper joy, meaning, and impact. 

 

Timestamps: 

00:00:00 Introduction & The Hidden Question Behind Success

00:01:40 Success Achieved, Emptiness Remains

00:03:20 The Disconnect of “Going Through the Motions.”

00:05:00 Decades of Momentum & Inner Tiredness

00:06:40 Playing a Character & Seeking Deeper Meaning

00:08:20 Facing Burnout & The Concept of Misalignment

00:10:00 Rediscovering Values and Building Self-Awareness

00:11:40 Time to Pivot: Steps for Realignment

00:13:20 Grounding Yourself with Daily Questions

00:15:00 Journaling Exercise, Reflections & Outro

 

Conclusion: 

True fulfillment starts when you stop chasing more and start tuning into what matters most within. The path to congruence is not about abandoning your achievements but about aligning them with your deepest values and desires. Remember, the discomfort you feel is really an invitation that serves as a wake-up call to a richer, more meaningful season of life. By embracing stillness, revisiting your core values, and asking powerful questions, you can chart a new course that feels genuinely right for you. Your next chapter is waiting, so are you ready to write it with purpose and passion? 

 

Links/Resources: 

Substack: https://marcelschwantes.substack.com/      

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marcelschwantes/  

Twitter/X: https://x.com/MarcelSchwantes  

YouTube: http://www.youtube.com/@MarcelSchwantes1

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marcel.schwantes/