Change Cultivators

Patrick sits down with Glenn Caruso, an expert in applied AI training, to explore what every leader needs to know about the evolving role of artificial intelligence in business.

This conversation is more than a trend watch, it’s a practical, forward-looking guide for change leaders who want to stay relevant, strategic, and human in an AI-powered world. Glenn shares how to master advanced prompting, build contextual understanding, and rethink AI as a collaborator rather than a threat.

Takeaways include:

• Why AI is now a core survival skill for leaders

• How advanced prompting unlocks better outcomes

• Practical ways AI can enhance your daily workflow

• The emotional intelligence needed to lead with tech

• Why continuous learning is the only sustainable strategy

SUMMARY

In this energizing conversation, Tomissa Smittendorf, a transformative Sr. Director of Commercial Capability from Kellanova, talks with Patrick Fitzmaurice about how a modern L&D strategy can power culture change, employee engagement, and long-term business growth.

With a focus on building knowledge capital, nurturing a growth mindset, and developing strategic industry partnerships, Tomissa lays out how learning becomes a competitive advantage in times of transformation.

TAKEAWAYS INCLUDE:

• Why investing in people fuels successful change
• How L&D drives both retention and innovation
• Building a culture of safe spaces and continuous growth
• The role of sales training in culture evolution
• Why relationship-building is essential in change leadership

SUMMARY

In this candid and thought-provoking conversation, Patrick dives into the shifting world of marketing and agency life with Rob Sellers, a bold voice in creative strategy and transformation.

They explore how technology, AI, and evolving client demands are rewriting the rules for agencies. From the urgent need for agility to the enduring value of talent and authenticity, this episode is a wake-up call for anyone working in or with creative organizations.

TAKEAWAYS INCLUDE:

• Why the traditional agency model is under pressure
• How AI is revolutionizing production—and what that means for creatives
• The importance of investing in talent as your only true IP
• Why agility and speed must be matched by human connection
• How authenticity is becoming the most powerful brand strategy

In this engaging conversation, Patrick Fitzmaurice chats with Stephen Shapiro - a Hall of Fame speaker, author of 7 books, with over 20 years in leadership and innovation. They explore what it really takes to drive meaningful change in today’s fast-moving world. 

From building a stable foundation to unleashing innovation through tools like Personality Poker, Stephen challenges conventional thinking and shares powerful insights from his latest book, Pivotal. Whether you're leading a team, a transformation, or an entire organization, this discussion will give you fresh perspective on how stability fuels innovation - and how leaders can harness both to stay ahead.

Takeaways include:

• How to identify your organization’s true differentiators

• Why agility fails without a stable base

• The surprising role of AI in innovation strategy

• How creative hobbies can fuel better leadership

• Why emotional connection beats efficiency every time

#ChangeLeadership #Innovation #StephenShapiro #PivotalThinking #OrganizationalGrowth #ChangeCultivators #LeadershipStrategy #AIinBusiness

Overcoming Story Poverty in Organizations

Discover how unlocking hidden stories can spark connection, culture, and lasting change in your organization.

Summary

In this conversation, Patrick and Todd explore the significance of storytelling in leadership and organizational change. Todd, an advocate for story stewardship, discusses the concept of 'story poverty'—the lack of personal narratives within organizations, particularly in churches. They delve into the emotional and vulnerable aspects of storytelling, emphasizing how sharing personal stories can foster connection and drive change. The discussion also highlights the barriers individuals face in sharing their stories and the role of technology in facilitating this process. Ultimately, they provide insights on how to cultivate a culture of storytelling to enhance communication and engagement within organizations. In this conversation, Todd Miechiels and Patrick discuss the importance of storytelling in leadership and organizational change. They explore how to create safe environments for introverts to share their stories, the challenges of distributing these stories effectively, and the concept of 'story poverty'—the lack of shared narratives that can hinder leadership development. Todd shares his journey from business to church storytelling and emphasizes the need for organizations to invest in sharing their stories of impact. The discussion highlights the interconnectedness of storytelling, vulnerability, and authenticity in fostering change within communities.

Takeaways

• Storytelling is crucial for effective communication in leadership.

• Many organizations suffer from 'story poverty'—a lack of personal narratives.

• Vulnerability is key to authentic storytelling.

• Emotional connections through stories can drive change.

• Barriers to sharing stories include fear and lack of time.

• Creating a culture of storytelling requires intentionality and support.

• Technology can help capture and share stories effectively.

• Introverts often have the most transformational stories to share.

• Addressing story poverty can lead to greater organizational engagement.

• Personal stories can unlock awareness and desire for change. Creating environments for stories to be revealed is crucial.

• Story poverty can significantly impact leadership development.

• Investing in storytelling is as important as acquiring customers.

• Introverts need safe spaces to share their stories.

• The church often struggles with effective storytelling.

• Vulnerability and authenticity resonate deeply with audiences.

• Organizations should prioritize sharing stories of life change.

• Storytelling can bridge the gap between sacred and secular.

• Effective communication involves understanding nonverbal cues.

• Building a community around storytelling fosters connection and change.

Master the art of communication centric and trust centric change leadership behaviors. This episode focuses on strategic communication and trust-building to lead your team through change with confidence.

Dive into the key behaviors of vision-centric and human-centric change leaders. Understand how aligning with organizational vision and addressing individual needs can propel your change leadership effectiveness.

Uncover the importance of having the mindsets of structured improvisation and tenacious pursuit in change leadership. Patrick and Gareth discuss how to balance flexibility and persistence in driving successful transformations.

Explore the first three mindsets - Change Embracers, Curious Seekers, Pathfinders - of exceptional change leaders. Hear how to embrace change, foster curiosity, and carve new paths.

Discover the essential mindsets and behaviors for effective change leadership. Host Patrick Fitzmaurice and Producer Gareth Hosking delve into the differences between traditional leadership and change leadership, setting the stage for this insightful series.

Episode 14 of our "40 Under 40 Global Change Leaders" podcast is here. In this episode, Sean Lee, President & Co-Founder of Cincy Brands and former CMO at P&G, shares insights on the vital role of data in driving organizational change. Sean emphasizes how data can shape compelling narratives for change. He also discusses the importance of engaging with diverse individuals in an organization, understanding their motivations, and tailoring change to benefit them personally to overcome resistance. Sean's extensive leadership experience across various sectors makes this episode a valuable resource for change leaders.

Episode 13 of our "40 Under 40 Global Change Leaders" podcast is live, featuring Clare Galvão, VP of Customer & Channel Strategy at Kellanova. Clare brings a wealth of international experience, having worked with industry giants like Kellogg's and Coca-Cola.

In this episode, Clare discusses the significance of active and empathetic listening. She underscores the value of genuinely listening to colleagues to gain a deep understanding of the real issues that require attention. Moreover, Clare highlights the importance of identifying and tackling challenges or pain points that may arise during projects, emphasizing the need for adaptability and openness to new ideas.

This episode of "40 Under 40 Global Change Leaders" features the incredible Mythili Sarathy. An IIM Bangalore alumna and Anna University graduate, Mythili boasts a stellar track record in transportation, oil & energy, telecom, and IT. Leading business strategy, marketing, IT, and HR, she drives growth through diversification, brand building, and change management. Mythili excels in coaching, talent management, Pre-sales, and more. 

In this episode, Mythili imparts invaluable insights on the significance of inspiring and influencing as essential leadership qualities during times of change, as well as the art of taking risks.

Exciting news! The 40 Under 40 podcast is back this week with another episode. In this session, we sit down with Janani Prakaash, a remarkable Human Resources leader, development coach, and a multi-talented individual with skills ranging from vocal training to yoga instruction - just to mention a few! Join us as we delve into Janani's thoughts on leadership, where she emphasizes the importance of an optimistic, opportunity-seeking mindset and the value of diverse experiences as a unique differentiator. Don't miss out on this insightful conversation.

Uncover the key to effective leadership through our League of Leaders 'On the Road' Change Cultivators Podcast! Embark on an exceptional voyage delving into the realm of change leadership, and acquire unparalleled wisdom on leading teams in the dynamic landscape of the modern business world. Learn from Brandon Walker, a student from Morehouse College, as he shares how actively seeking connections and building diverse relationships can provide unexpected opportunities and how prioritizing diversity and creating a culture of coaching and development can drive innovation, growth, and individual success. Join us on this journey of leadership growth!

Episode 10 of Change Cultivators' 40 Under 40 podcast series featuring Bruno Cardinali, Chief Marketing Officer, Team & Business Leader, and Adweek Executive Mentor, is here.  Bruno's passion for people development and team-building has led him to success in business management and brand marketing across different brands, products, and target groups, in both emerging and developed markets. In this episode, he shares valuable insights on building a team, creating a manifesto, and having purpose in your journey. Don't miss out on this inspiring conversation!

Check out Episode 9 of Change Cultivators 40 under 40 podcast, featuring the inspiring Hayden Keating, Director at CRD Diesel, CRD Car Service, CRD Tuned, CRD Imports, Thomsons Diesel, DCi Diesel & Performance. Hayden shares his valuable insights on investing in assets, not liabilities, and building a culture of transparency and accountability for success.

Discover the secrets to successful leadership and elevate your skills with our 'On the Road' Change Cultivators Podcast, presented by the League of Leaders. Join us on an extraordinary journey through the world of change leadership and gain unparalleled insight into what it takes to lead teams in today's fast-paced business world. As we share the remarkable journey of Justin Honaman, Head of Worldwide CPG & Retail GTM from Amazon, you'll be inspired to take your leadership game to the next level. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to learn from the best. Tune in now and start your journey to becoming an exceptional leader.

Join the 'On the Road' podcast by Change Cultivators and League of Leaders for an inspiring trip towards change leadership. In our latest episode, we have captivating experts sharing authentic stories and insights that will motivate you to become a change leader. Discover the fascinating journey of Derek Gaskins, the Chief Marketing Officer of Yesway, and learn how he embraced change leadership to achieve great success. Start your leadership journey today and drive change with us! Don't miss out on this opportunity to be inspired.

Don't miss this transformative conversation! Join Change Cultivators 'On the Road' Podcast with guests from the League of Leaders Event. Hear authentic stories and secrets of change leadership. Judy Moon, VP and Global Head of Revenue from Digimarc, shares her inspiring insights. Tune in for an informative and inspiring episode.

Get ready for a thrilling ride into the world of change leadership! The latest episode of the ‘On the Road’ Change Cultivators Podcast with the League of Leaders is here, and it's packed with invaluable insights and authentic stories about successful leadership. Join us as we explore what it takes to lead teams in today's fast-paced business world, and discover the remarkable journey of Albert Guffanti, VP and Group Publisher of CGT & RIS at Ensemble IQs. With unparalleled insight and personal experiences from the front lines of change management, you won't want to miss this unique opportunity to take your leadership game to the next level. So join us now and get inspired by the League of Leaders!

Exciting news! Our next guest on the Change Cultivators 40 Under 40 podcast is the amazing April Pekel! April is a Connector and Coach, as well as the Change Management Senior Director for Northwestern Mutual. With her support, others can navigate change, uncertainty, and innovation to better serve their clients and change lives. April brings passion, purpose, humor, and hard work to everything she does. Don't miss this episode! Tune in now on your favorite podcast platform to learn how she's driving change. Don't forget to subscribe for upcoming episodes featuring more inspiring young leaders.

Welcome to a special episode of the Change Cultivators On the Road podcast, hosted by Patrick Fitzmaurice. In this episode, we're taking a deep dive into the world of organizational change and development.

We were lucky enough to be able to take the change Cultivators microphone along to the amazing League of leaders event which has allowed us to feature four incredible guest speakers in this one amazing episode! It's packed with valuable insights and practical tips on how to become a better change leader. Whether you're a seasoned leader or just starting out in your career, there's something for everyone in this jam-packed episode.

From discussing the latest trends in organizational change to exploring the challenges facing modern leaders, our guests share their expertise and experiences with candor and humor. You'll come away from this episode with a new understanding of what it takes to lead change successfully and a renewed sense of purpose in your own leadership journey.

Tune in to this episode of the League of Leaders podcast and discover what it takes to be a true change leader.

Our latest episode of the Change Cultivators 40 Under 40 Global Change Leaders podcast features the amazing Jarvis Sam! Jarvis is the Founder/CEO of The Rainbow Disruption and an adjunct professor at Brown University. He was also recently named to Forbes' 30 Under 30 in Sports class of 2021 and Portland Business Journal's 40 Under 40. In this episode, Jarvis shares his insights on managing across lines of difference and cultivating a growth mindset. His wisdom and experience are truly inspiring, and we can't wait for you to hear his message. Don't miss out on this incredible episode!

We are thrilled to have Gilbert A. Ang'ana, CEO/Founder of Accent Leadership Group, as our guest on our sixth 40 Under 40 podcast! Gilbert is a multi-award-winning executive coach and consultant who specializes in organization engagement and productivity. He's also the author of Engaged & Productive, a book that helps leaders and aspiring leaders transform their leadership style. Gilbert stresses the importance of connecting with people, which is especially relevant in today's world. He's a true inspiration to all of us who strive to lead with empathy and purpose. Don't miss out on his valuable insights!

We are honored to have Annie Mayfield, a prolific writer and speaker, as our fifth guest on our podcast! Annie shared her insights on making tough decisions and drew from her vast experience as a 5-time author and 2-time #1 Amazon Bestseller in various categories. She's also the host of the Made to Shine podcast that's streamed in 42 countries and ranked in the top 25% of globally shared podcasts. Annie reminds us that we are more than just our job titles, and that it's important to embrace all the different hats we wear in life. Don't miss out on her inspiring words!

Caroline Dillon is our next 40under40 podcast guest - listen here (LINK). Caroline established a first-of-its-kind Thought Leadership center of excellence for Google industry executives achieving 100% adoption in the first 90 days. As a Global Learning Communications & Marketing Lead at Google, Caroline also created and managed global learning campaigns delivered to 15K+ employees and 4M+ customers on behalf of 200+ programs and 170+ global stakeholders. Currently heading up content marketing for a behavioral science-based solution, Caroline shares her invaluable, open and candid insights and experience. You want to hear this really valuable discussion!

Featuring award winning script writer, Ally Tara, CEO of Maze Kids - an interactive educational service for children that promotes creativity, confidence, and emotional intelligence through performing arts. Ally shares her journey as a creative entrepreneur with expertise in Global Media, International Transformation and Financial Consultancy.

Featuring the incredible Michael A Jackson, founder of a leading social impact consultancy. Michael shares his journey as a young leader and offers invaluable advice on how to drive real change.

Featuring Kelsey Mayo, CEO of a women's health company that's revolutionizing the industry. Kelsey shares her inspiring journey as a young leader and how she's building a team to drive real impact.

In our recent podcast Rozzyn Boy talks to Patricia Velazquez Sales Development Manager, Education Vertical Lead at Google about the importance of an employee’s lifelong learning, vs just higher education degree attainment. They unpack how the lens of ‘education’ no longer applies to just sub 21 year old's in traditional learning scenarios - but to all ages across the workforce. With that,  leaders now also have the opportunity to utilize the potential of Web 3.0 (The Metaverse) to radically transform a future workforce that is well equipped for their roles and motivated to produce more impactful results in their careers.

‘From birth to the boardroom: Children can only aspire to what they know exists’

Join me for this fascinating conversation with Professor Dr Ger Graus OBE and Lori Tauber Marcus (Band of Sisters, Peloton, Del Monte, Pepsico) as we discuss the impact of a child's upbringing on how they show up in the workplace one day.

It's no secret that the education sector is at the cross section of immense change. From hybrid learning models, to groundbreaking technology, to shifting student demographics, education is re-imagining both the experience and ROI of learning.

Join me as I chat to John Farrar, Director of Education at Google about the skills and knowledge employers are looking to hire, how education can evolve to better prepare students for the world today, and how technologies such as AI and the Metaverse present a new world of engaging, immersive learning. We'll explore the question, "how can education transform what's possible for the next generation of students?"

We had great fun together with The Band of Sisters – 6 accomplished C-Suite Women Leaders. In this special ‘Breaking Barriers’ mini-series of the Change Cultivators podcast, we take a specific look at the issue of 'gender bias’ and how change leaders can actively and practically go about turning some rather stale gender bias habits and narratives into wonderful positives in the workplace as they continue to build high-performance cultures and teams within their organizations.

Our guests in this series are The Band of Sisters, 6 C-Suite Women Leaders that have truly walked the halls and tread the gender diversity path across 20+ industries from the bottom rung to the boardroom – within large corporations to small startups, including Pepsico, News Corp, the NFL, Keurig, Equinox, Golftec, ESPN and more.

In this special ‘Breaking Barriers’ mini-series of the Change Cultivators podcast, we take a specific look at the issue of 'gender diversity’ and how all leaders need to be participative in enabling and empowering true change on the ground, in the boardrooms and further afield.

Angelique Krembs, Mitzi Short and Dawn Hudson (3 of the 6 experienced C-Suite Women Leaders that make up The Band of Sisters) share how leaders and teams are limited in driving successful change if they do not consider and embrace perspectives, opinions and insights from a wide diversity of thought, gender, race, physical abilities and disabilities, cultures etc.

Change Cultivators co-hosts Rozzyn Boy and Patrick Fitzmaurice continue unpacking the perspectives 3 of the 6 experienced C-Suite Women Leaders (The Band of Sisters) on ‘Breaking Barriers’ that limit transformation success.

Katie Lacey, Lori Marcus and Cie Nicholson shed a light on the need for leaders to listen more, be more open themselves to being taught and to create work environments that allow for people's voices to be heard in the moment.

A change leader needs to engage EVERYONE to successfully drive transformation.

Change Cultivators co-hosts Rozzyn Boy and Patrick Fitzmaurice get the perspectives of 6 experienced C-Suite Women Leaders (The Band of Sisters) on ‘Breaking Barriers’ that limit transformation success - unpacking the need for leaders to listen more, be more open themselves to being taught and create environments that allow for people's voices to be heard.

Award-winning international keynote speaker and author, Shola Kaye, has devoted her career to building empathy in individuals and organizations.

Shola felt the destructive effects of a lack of workplace empathy early in her own career. This experience, along with her conviction that empathy leads to greater inclusivity and tolerance, increased wellness, and all round better leadership, have fueled her flame.

During the course of her illustrious career, she has developed a range of tools by which to assist leaders and teams as they realize the need for increased workplace empathy and seek methods by which to achieve this.

Award-winning international keynote speaker and author, Shola Kaye, has devoted her career to building empathy in individuals and organizations.

Shola felt the destructive effects of a lack of workplace empathy early in her own career. This experience, along with her conviction that empathy leads to greater inclusivity and tolerance, increased wellness, and all round better leadership, have fueled her flame.

During the course of her illustrious career, she has developed a range of tools by which to assist leaders and teams as they realize the need for increased workplace empathy and seek methods by which to achieve this.

Award-winning international keynote speaker and author, Shola Kaye, has devoted her career to building empathy in individuals and organizations.

Shola felt the destructive effects of a lack of workplace empathy early in her own career. This experience, along with her conviction that empathy leads to greater inclusivity and tolerance, increased wellness, and all round better leadership, have fueled her flame.

During the course of her illustrious career, she has developed a range of tools by which to assist leaders and teams as they realize the need for increased workplace empathy and seek methods by which to achieve this.

Graeme Codrington of TomorrowToday Global has dedicated his life to astute change cultivation. Far from being a “crystal ball” or “weatherman” futurist, he has established himself as a remarkably adept discerner of trends and builder of business adaptability through decades of cutting-edge scientific and creative experience. He boasts an 80% client return rate, and an impressive gallery of success stories from his dynamic and inspiring career journey so far.

The refreshing thing about Graeme is that he was doing what he does long before COVID came along and demanded that everyone be more future-ready. This is his life and his passion which he shares generously, enthusiastically, and with fiery conviction.

Graeme Codrington of TomorrowToday Global has dedicated his life to astute change cultivation. Far from being a “crystal ball” or “weatherman” futurist, he has established himself as a remarkably adept discerner of trends and builder of business adaptability through decades of cutting-edge scientific and creative experience. He boasts an 80% client return rate, and an impressive gallery of success stories from his dynamic and inspiring career journey so far.

The refreshing thing about Graeme is that he was doing what he does long before COVID came along and demanded that everyone be more future-ready. This is his life and his passion which he shares generously, enthusiastically, and with fiery conviction.

Graeme Codrington of TomorrowToday Global has dedicated his life to astute change cultivation. Far from being a “crystal ball” or “weatherman” futurist, he has established himself as a remarkably adept discerner of trends and builder of business adaptability through decades of cutting-edge scientific and creative experience. He boasts an 80% client return rate, and an impressive gallery of success stories from his dynamic and inspiring career journey so far.

The refreshing thing about Graeme is that he was doing what he does long before COVID came along and demanded that everyone be more future-ready. This is his life and his passion which he shares generously, enthusiastically, and with fiery conviction.

Having featured on our most-listened-to podcast back in Season 1, Mehul Kapadia has followed the development of the Change Cultivators podcast and kindly accepted a second invitation to chat with us again, this time in his new role as Global Head of Marketing for Vodafone.

Based on his extensive career experience encompassing international leadership roles in strategic marketing, partnerships, sponsorship and operations in the technology, telecommunications, and media industries (Vodafone Business, Tata Communications, Motorsport Network and FCB Ulka), Mehul discusses what it takes to be an effective change leader across multiple scales and contexts.

Having featured on our most-listened-to podcast back in Season 1, Mehul Kapadia has followed the development of the Change Cultivators podcast and kindly accepted a second invitation to chat with us again, this time in his new role as Global Head of Marketing for Vodafone.

Based on his extensive career experience encompassing international leadership roles in strategic marketing, partnerships, sponsorship and operations in the technology, telecommunications, and media industries (Vodafone Business, Tata Communications, Motorsport Network and FCB Ulka), Mehul discusses what it takes to be an effective change leader across multiple scales and contexts.

Having featured on our most-listened-to podcast back in Season 1, Mehul Kapadia has followed the development of the Change Cultivators podcast and kindly accepted a second invitation to chat with us again, this time in his new role as Global Head of Marketing for Vodafone. 

Based on his extensive career experience encompassing international leadership roles in strategic marketing, partnerships, sponsorship and operations in the technology, telecommunications, and media industries (Vodafone Business, Tata Communications, Motorsport Network and FCB Ulka), Mehul discusses what it takes to be an effective change leader across multiple scales and contexts.

Julie Hruska, named one of the top 50 most impactful people on LinkedIn, is a coach, speaker, trainer and leader who has made it her mission to transform high potential into high performance as she develops legendary leaders and high performance cultures.

Besides her formal qualifications, Julie’s powerful personal story of successful change activation during extreme disruption gives her great credibility in her chosen quest.

She shares candidly and insightfully about what prevents leaders from performing optimally and how these barriers can be overcome. Julie is also passionate about helping companies build vibrant team cultures to ensure that employees become enlisted, enthusiastic and empowered change collaborators.

Julie Hruska, named one of the top 50 most impactful people on LinkedIn, is a coach, speaker, trainer and leader who has made it her mission to transform high potential into high performance as she develops legendary leaders and high performance cultures.

Besides her formal qualifications, Julie’s powerful personal story of successful change activation during extreme disruption gives her great credibility in her chosen quest.

She shares candidly and insightfully about what prevents leaders from performing optimally and how these barriers can be overcome. Julie is also passionate about helping companies build vibrant team cultures to ensure that employees become enlisted, enthusiastic and empowered change collaborators.

Julie Hruska, named one of the top 50 most impactful people on LinkedIn, is a coach, speaker, trainer and leader who has made it her mission to transform high potential into high performance as she develops legendary leaders and high performance cultures.

Besides her formal qualifications, Julie’s powerful personal story of successful change activation during extreme disruption gives her great credibility in her chosen quest.

She shares candidly and insightfully about what prevents leaders from performing optimally and how these barriers can be overcome. Julie is also passionate about helping companies build vibrant team cultures to ensure that employees become enlisted, enthusiastic and empowered change collaborators.

Judith Germain enables business owners and organisations to improve their leadership impact and influence. Because when they utilise their ability to 𝗦𝘁𝗿𝗮𝘁𝗲𝗴𝗶𝘀𝗲, 𝗜𝗻𝗻𝗼𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗲, and 𝗘𝘅𝗲𝗰𝘂𝘁𝗲 leaders exceed stakeholder expectations, have engaged inclusive teams and attract the clients that they want.

Since 2005 she has been defining Mavericks as ‘wilfully independent’ people. She believes that anyone can become a Maverick Leader and utilise their ©Maverick Drive™ effectively.