Crises don’t just challenge organizations—they reveal the very core of leadership. In this powerful episode, we sit down with Edward Segal, one of the nation’s leading experts on crisis management and author of The Crisis Casebook: Lessons in Crisis Management from the World’s Leading Brands and Crisis Ahead: 101 Ways to Prepare for and Bounce Back from Disasters, Scandals, and Other Emergencies.Edward has spent decades advising leaders and studying how some of the world’s most recognized brands navigate disaster. From corporate scandals and public relations nightmares to cybersecurity breaches and natural disasters, he’s seen firsthand what separates organizations that recover and rebuild trust from those that crumble under pressure.Together, we explore:Why so many leaders underestimate the likelihood and impact of a crisisThe critical first steps leaders must take in the earliest hours of chaosHow to balance transparency and brand protection when communicating under fireThe evolving role of social media in shaping public perception during a crisisPractical strategies for rebuilding trust and resilience after the storm passesWhether you’re leading a team, a company, or an entire community, this conversation will equip you with insights and strategies to prepare for the unexpected—and to lead with courage and clarity when it matters most.If you want to ensure you and your organization are crisis-ready, this is a must-listen episode.To learn more about Edward and his work, visit https://www.crisiscasebook.com/To download a free crisis management template, click here: https://www.crisiscasebook.com/free-crisis-management-plan
--------
42:37
--------
42:37
Rethinking Succession Planning: with Ernesto Gómez
In this episode of The Leadership Code Podcast, we sit down with Ernesto Gómez, a seasoned executive whose three-decade career spans entrepreneurial ventures and global corporate leadership. From building food service businesses in the U.S. and Mexico to leading human capital strategies for Sigma Alimentos and Grupo Alfa—two powerhouse organizations with a combined workforce of over 120,000—Ernesto brings a rare perspective on leadership, transformation, and the critical importance of succession planning.Together, we explore why succession planning is often an afterthought until it becomes a crisis—and how to shift from reactive backfills to proactive talent development. Ernesto shares insights from his global work leading cultural and talent initiatives, offering practical strategies for identifying and developing high-potential talent, embedding succession into daily leadership practice, and creating equitable access to leadership roles for underrepresented groups.We also tackle the psychology of leadership—what it takes to prepare successors without feeling threatened, how to measure what matters, and where organizations should begin if they’re just now taking succession seriously.Whether you're a C-suite executive, HR leader, or emerging leader preparing to shape the future, this episode offers a blueprint for turning succession from a risk into a strategic advantage.
--------
41:34
--------
41:34
The Approachable leader : with Steve Worthy
Approachability isn’t about being “nice.” It’s about being present. It’s about building trust before there’s a crisis, creating space for truth to surface, and modeling the kind of leadership that makes growth possible—for your team and for yourself.In this episode of The Leadership Code, we’re joined by Steve Worthy, Head of Growth at Competitor IQ (CIQ) and founder of The Campus, a leadership development platform redefining how we develop leaders in fast-paced industries like banking and retail. Steve is the mind behind the S.M.I.L.E. Approachability™️ Framework, a modern model that helps leaders foster trust, inspire teams, and expand their impact—without sacrificing performance.We break down:Why many leaders think they’re approachable (but aren’t)What self-awareness and mindful listening really look like in practiceHow to lead former peers and manage up without losing credibilityWhat role empathy and trust play in fostering high-performing, psychologically safe teams🔍 The S.M.I.L.E. Framework:Self-AwarenessMindful ListeningInspiring TrustLead by ExampleEffective EmpathyWhether you’re an emerging leader, managing a legacy team, or guiding an organization through growth, this episode is packed with actionable insights for leading with both strength and humility.Learn more about Steve at www.worthyretail.com/now
--------
35:20
--------
35:20
Cultivating a Culture of Empathy: with Rebecca Shaddix
In today’s high-velocity work environments, where deadlines loom, priorities shift by the hour, and the pressure to perform never lets up, empathy can feel like a luxury we can’t afford. But what if that thinking is backwards?In this episode of The Leadership Code, we’re joined by Rebecca Shaddix—a powerhouse strategist and founder of Strategica Partners—who’s helped organizations generate over $450 million in revenue growth in just three and a half years. With her sharp eye for product-market fit and her signature blend of analytical thinking and emotional intelligence, Rebecca argues that empathy isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s a performance multiplier.We explore:What empathy actually looks like in fast-paced, high-stakes teamsHow to lead with heart without losing your edgeWhy emotionally intelligent leaders build stronger products, cultures, and bottom linesWhat you can do today to foster empathy across teams—especially in roles where metrics often overshadow meaningWhether you're scaling a startup, leading cross-functional teams, or trying to stay grounded in the chaos—this conversation will challenge your assumptions and equip you with practical tools to lead with both clarity and compassion.
--------
43:19
--------
43:19
The 4 Faces of Frustration: with Andrew Oxley
Whether you're leading a small team or an entire organization, chances are you've felt the weight of frustration—where nothing seems to stick, clarity is elusive, and results don’t reflect your effort.Joining us on The Leadership Code is internationally recognized executive coach, author, and founder of The Oxley Group, Andrew Oxley. He’s worked with over 2,000 leaders across industries—from CNN and Cartier to TK Elevator and Progressive. In his new book, The 4 Faces of Frustration, Andrew unpacks the four hidden dynamics that quietly sabotage leaders and teams.We kick off with the fictional yet all-too-real story of Jack Staff, a new CEO thrown into chaos without a map. From there, Andrew walks us through each “face” of frustration, how to recognize them, and how to move forward with clarity, ownership, and traction.Highlights include:A practical framework for diagnosing and addressing invisible leadership breakdownsWhy some of the most dangerous frustrations are the quietestHow to turn frustration into forward momentum—not burnoutThe role emotional intelligence plays in navigating ambiguityReal stories from the field that illustrate what’s possible when leaders step into clarityIf you’ve ever felt stuck, reactive, or stretched thin—this conversation will leave you feeling seen, equipped, and ready to lead from a more grounded place.“Frustration isn’t the problem—it’s the breadcrumb. It’s pointing to something deeper.” — Andrew OxleyTune in and discover how to name your frustration, reframe your approach, and lead with renewed purpose.Learn more about Andrew here: https://www.transformingresults.com
Welcome to The Leadership Code, a podcast that explores the principles behind exceptional leadership with a focus on helping leaders grow, thrive, and lead effectively in today’s dynamic world. Each episode is packed with key principles, actionable strategies, and insights from thought leaders and industry experts to help you unlock your leadership potential. Whether you are navigating a team, driving organizational change, or simply looking to grow as a leader, The Leadership Code Podcast is here to guide you along your journey.
The Leadership Code is sponsored by Gatts Consulting, a human capital and organizational development consultancy. Learn more at www.gattsconsulting.com
Disclaimer: The views, opinions, beliefs, and resources shared in this podcast are those of the guests and are not meant to be endorsements of podcast host.