Surfacing Leaders

In this episode of the Surfacing Leaders podcast, host Marc Koehler sits down with David Allison, a two-time bestselling author, keynote speaker, and the world’s leading expert on human values. Together, they explore why traditional demographic-based leadership strategies are failing in today’s workplace and what to do instead. David introduces his groundbreaking Valuegraphics Project, the world’s first global inventory of what truly drives people: their values. He explains how leaders can use values-based data to build more connected teams, shape inclusive cultures, and make faster, more aligned decisions. With nearly a million surveys conducted in 152 languages, David’s research uncovers five “togetherness values” that are shared by high-performing teams across every industry and region. He also shares simple, actionable questions any leader can ask to better understand what motivates their people. This episode offers powerful insights for leaders seeking to: – Build unity in diverse, multigenerational teams – Make smarter, faster decisions rooted in human truth – Replace outdated stereotypes with authentic human understanding Discover how to unlock the full potential of your people by seeing them for who they truly are. Connect with David Learn more about David’s work Book David to speak Get The Death of Demographics

In this episode of the Surfacing Leaders podcast, host Marc Koehler has a powerful conversation with George Randle, Army Vet, talent expert, and co-author of the best-selling book The Talent War. With a background that spans military command and leadership at Fortune 100 companies, George offers a unique perspective on what it truly takes to build elite teams and lead in today’s fast-paced world. They explore the foundational attributes of great leadership: humility, discipline, team ability, and resilience, and why these are more essential than ever in a world where technology, speed, and complexity continue to accelerate. George shares stories from his time as a U.S. Army officer and corporate executive, revealing what organizations often get wrong about talent and how to get it right. Listeners will gain critical insights into: George also breaks down how to lead yourself first, why trust should be the starting point (not earned later), and how to create cultures that reflect leadership behavior at the top. Whether you're in the military, in the boardroom, or just starting out, this episode offers timeless leadership lessons grounded in real-world experience. Connect with George: LinkedIn Book: The Talent War Website

This might be one of the most important episodes of Surfacing Leaders we’ve released. In this gripping conversation, host Marc Koehler sits down with Rashmi Airan, ex-felon, lawyer, keynote speaker, and self-proclaimed unapologetic truth-teller, whose fall from grace led her through the darkest chapter of her life and into the brightest clarity of purpose. Rashmi doesn’t just talk about resilience, transformation, and ethics: she lives it. Her story of being federally indicted, serving prison time, and then rebuilding her life with integrity and purpose is both sobering and deeply inspiring. What emerged from her journey is the RISE framework: Reframe, Identify, Surrender, Evolve; a process that will fundamentally reshape how you lead, live, and respond to adversity. This episode will shake loose everything you thought you knew about leadership. You’ll walk away rethinking the pace you operate at, how you make decisions under pressure, and what it truly means to take ownership. More importantly, you'll learn how to stop chasing perfection and start rising through struggle—with courage, clarity, and compassion. Key takeaways: – Slowing down might be the boldest move you can make as a leader. – Vulnerability isn’t a weakness: It’s your greatest leadership tool. – You can’t earn trust until you tell the truth–to others and yourself. This episode isn’t just a conversation, it’s a wake-up call. If you’re leading at any level, you need to hear this. 🔗 Learn more about Rashmi: Website: https://rashmiairan.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rashmiairan

In this episode of the Surfacing Leaders podcast, host Marc Koehler reconnects with Fire Chief David Parsons of the Oceanside Fire Department to explore what leadership looks like when the stakes are at their highest. Chief Parsons shares the gripping story of the April 2024 Oceanside Pier fire, one of the most high-risk, high-visibility events in the city’s recent history, and how the department’s response became a case study in trust, preparation, and calm under pressure. As the first graduate of the Oceanside Fire Academy to rise to the rank of Chief, David reflects on how his leadership style has evolved, the systems that allowed his team to perform at the highest level, and the importance of fostering a culture of humility, readiness, and agility. Listeners will walk away with practical insights, including: Whether you're leading a department, a company, or a team of one, this conversation will equip you with timeless leadership principles that transcend industries and emergencies. Connect with Chief Parsons LinkedIn

In this episode of the Surfacing Leaders podcast, host Marc Koehler welcomes Lindsay Wilson, co-founder and CEO of Ink Factory Studio, to explore how visual storytelling transforms communication and leadership. Lindsay shares her journey from military base beginnings to becoming a leader in visual note-taking and collaborative communication. She explains how visuals—what she calls “modern-day pictograms”—cut through noise, build clarity, and help leaders align teams across generations, cultures, and learning styles. Throughout the conversation, Lindsay reveals the high-level skills her team uses in real time—active listening, synthesizing, and visual hierarchy—to turn complex ideas into engaging visual summaries. She also offers practical advice for leaders to bring visual thinking into everyday meetings, even without a professional artist in the room. Listeners will discover how visuals are not just “pretty pictures” but powerful tools for understanding, retention, and connection. Whether it’s a high-stakes strategy session or a quick team huddle, Lindsay shows that showing—rather than just telling—can make all the difference. The episode concludes with a powerful takeaway: listen to understand, not to respond. Learn more about Lindsay and Ink Factory Studio at inkfactorystudio.com, connect with her on LinkedIn and follow their work on Instagram: @inkfactorystudio

In this episode of the Surfacing Leaders podcast, host Marc Koehler has a heartfelt and eye-opening conversation with special guest and daughter, Sophie Koehler, a young engineer and emerging Gen Z leader who is reshaping what leadership looks like today—and tomorrow. Sophie shares her experience growing up in the orbit of high-stakes leadership, only to realize that her generation is leading in different, quieter, and often more courageous ways. With honesty and introspection, she talks about moving beyond perfectionism, finding her voice, and navigating early career challenges in the engineering world, where confidence sometimes lags behind capability. Together, Marc and Sophie explore how today’s young professionals are not waiting their turn—they're already transforming the workforce with values like empathy, self-awareness, and adaptability. Sophie speaks to the often-unseen brilliance of her peers and why the future of leadership will be built not just on bold action, but also on deep listening and personal alignment. Listeners will hear reflections on the pressures Gen Z faces, the power of authenticity over approval, and the leadership lessons that emerge from simply staying in the room when things get uncomfortable. The episode ends with encouragement for the next wave of leaders—and those guiding them: – Trust the next generation; they’re more capable than we give them credit for. – Leadership doesn’t require a title—just presence. – Growth happens when you question the script you’ve been handed. Join us for this inspiring episode and discover why the future of leadership is already here—and it sounds a lot like Sophie. Connect with Sophie Koehler: LinkedIn

In this episode of the Surfacing Leaders podcast, host Marc Koehler has a powerful and deeply personal conversation with Charlene Wheeless, former NFL cheerleader, women’s keynote speaker, best-selling author, and leadership expert. Charlene’s story is a testament to the power of resilience, authenticity, and conscious choice. Through her experiences, she challenges the myths around success and leadership, offering a fresh perspective on what it really means to lead with purpose. The conversation explores the lessons Charlene learned on the sidelines of the NFL and in high-stakes corporate environments. She discusses the emotional toll of fitting in, the hidden cost of performance, and how cancer forced her to confront her identity and ultimately redefine her life. Charlene’s mantra, “choice, not chance,” becomes a guiding theme for the episode. Listeners will walk away with actionable insights on: Join us in this unforgettable episode to learn how Charlene Wheeless reclaimed her voice—and how you can too.Learn more about Charlene Wheeless: Website LinkedIn Book: You Are Enough

In this episode of the Surfacing Leaders podcast, host Marc Koehler has a compelling conversation about performance psychology with Paul McVeigh, a former professional football player (soccer, if you’re in the US) from Belfast, Northern Ireland, who competed at the highest levels of the English Premier League. After a decade-long career with clubs like Norwich City and Tottenham Hotspur, Paul transitioned into the world of performance psychology, becoming a keynote speaker and author specializing in mental resilience and elite leadership. They dive deep into the critical role that mindset plays—not just in elite sports but in life and leadership. Paul shares powerful insights from his time on the field, where he learned that talent alone isn’t enough. He reveals the inner work required to sustain peak performance and how he now helps leaders in business and beyond develop the same psychological edge. From growing up during a time of conflict in Northern Ireland to competing in front of tens of thousands of fans, Paul’s story is a testament to grit, intentional thinking, and purpose-driven growth. Listeners will walk away with practical tools and mindset shifts that can be applied to any arena—whether you're running a business, leading a team, or simply striving to be better than you were yesterday. The episode wraps with key leadership takeaways: – Don’t leave your mindset to chance—train it. – Pressure reveals preparation. – Know who you are before the world tells you who to be. Join us in this inspiring episode to discover how Paul McVeigh’s journey from the soccer pitch to the boardroom can help unlock the leader within you. Connect with Paul McVeigh: Website LinkedIn Book

Some leaders talk about pressure—others have lived it. In this episode of Surfacing Leaders, host Marc Koehler sits down with Mark Fava—former naval flight officer, aviation lawyer, Boeing executive, and best-selling author—to uncover the hard truths about leadership when every decision matters. They discuss the high-stakes world of Cold War submarine tracking and the invaluable leadership lessons Mark carried from the cockpit to the corporate boardroom. Mark shares gripping stories from his time flying P-3 Orions, the intense cat-and-mouse games with nuclear submarines, and his experience navigating crisis leadership—including his time as Chief Operations Attorney for Delta Airlines on 9/11. Throughout the conversation, Mark reveals the core principles that shaped his leadership approach: clear communication, trust in your team, and the ability to adapt under pressure. He also discusses his bestselling book, Lessons from the Admiral, offering practical takeaways on how to lead with confidence and resilience in any environment. Listeners will walk away with valuable insights, including: Join us for this fascinating discussion and learn how to sharpen your leadership skills from someone who has led in the air, in the courtroom, and the corporate world. Connect with Mark Fava: Website LinkedIn Book

What does it take to lead in an industry that’s evolving faster than ever? In this episode of the Surfacing Leaders podcast, host Marc Koehler sits down with Lucas Silva, a dynamic operations leader in the construction industry. They explore what it takes to lead in one of the most demanding and rapidly evolving fields. Lucas shares his journey—from getting hands-on experience in high school to overseeing major infrastructure projects at Lucas Builders. He reveals how leadership in construction is shifting, emphasizing adaptability, trust, and fostering a culture of curiosity. Lucas discusses key leadership lessons, including the power of listening, the importance of hiring for values over experience, and how to create a workplace where employees feel invested and motivated to stay. He also dives into the future of construction, touching on AI, sustainability, and the growing need for modernization in an industry often resistant to change. Listeners will gain valuable insights from Lucas’s approach to leadership, including: Join us for this conversation to learn how to surface the leader within yourself—whether you're in construction or any other field where strong leadership is needed. Connect with Lucas Silva and Lucas Builders: Lucas Builders Website Lucas Builders Instagram Lucas Silva Instagram

What does it take to lead with confidence when you’re thrown into the deep end—whether in the military, a high-stakes veterinary clinic, or any leadership role? In this special episode of Surfacing Leaders, host Marc Koehler sits down with his niece and godchild, Dr. Petra van Moorsel, who is a former U.S. Army Veterinary Corps captain turned civilian veterinarian, to uncover the leadership lessons that translate far beyond the exam room. Petra’s story is one of resilience, adaptability, and learning to lead when you don’t yet have all the answers. She shares how she navigated imposter syndrome as a newly commissioned officer, earning the trust of seasoned soldiers, and how those same leadership principles now shape how she builds strong teams, makes critical decisions under pressure, and empowers those around her. In a world where leadership is often associated with titles and authority, Petra reveals why real influence comes from humility, action, and the ability to connect with people—whether they’re fellow officers, employees, or pet owners facing difficult decisions. If you’re a leader in any field, this conversation will challenge you to rethink what it means to step up, take responsibility, and inspire trust. Don’t miss this powerful discussion on leading with confidence, even in the face of uncertainty.

In this episode of the Surfacing Leaders podcast, host Marc Koehler sits down with Kerim Kfuri, global entrepreneur and supply chain expert, author, and CEO of the Atlas Network. They explore the intricate world of supply chains, the mindset needed for success, and the leadership principles that drive sustainable growth in an interconnected economy. Kerim shares his unique journey—from early entrepreneurial ventures to leading a global supply chain enterprise. He emphasizes the importance of adaptability, resilience, and maintaining a limitless mindset to navigate challenges. His three key pillars for supply chain success—choosing the right suppliers, ensuring visibility, and third-party attestation—offer valuable takeaways for business leaders and entrepreneurs. Throughout the conversation, Marc and Kerim discuss the broader implications of leadership, including the role of curiosity, continuous learning, and combating complacency. Kerim also provides insights into the future of AI in supply chains and the delicate balance of flexibility in today’s workforce. Tune in to discover: Join us for this engaging discussion on leadership, innovation, and the ever-evolving world of supply chains. Connect with Kerim Kfuri: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kerimkfuri/ KerimKfuri.com TheAtlasNetwork.com Supply Chain Ups and Downs

In this episode of the Surfacing Leaders podcast, host Marc Koehler sits down with Kevin Wathey, founder of Valara, a global resort portfolio redefining wellness, and Baseline, a health technology platform revolutionizing personalized health insights. Kevin shares his inspiring journey, from navigating personal loss to finding his purpose in wellness and hospitality. They discuss his transition from a corporate career at Hyatt Hotels to creating transformative experiences that blend luxury hospitality with cutting-edge health science. Kevin reflects on how his mother's legacy shaped his mission and shares the pivotal moments that led to his current ventures. Listeners will gain insights into: Tune in to discover how Kevin's unique approach to wellness, leadership, and connection can inspire your journey toward greater fulfillment, impact, and discovering your true North. Learn more about Kevin and his work: Website: GetBaseline.com LinkedIn

Are You Waiting for Permission to Lead Your Best Life? In this week’s episode, host Marc Koehler engages in a powerful conversation with returning guest Heather Younger, a celebrated author, keynote speaker, and leadership and workplace culture expert, who calls out the habits holding us back—waiting, blaming, and avoiding responsibility—and shares the keys to breaking free. Heather shares insights from her latest book, The Art of Self-Leadership: Discover the Power Within You and Learn to Lead Yourself, which explores how personal accountability and empowerment are the cornerstones of effective leadership. She reveals why self-leadership is essential for achieving clarity, building resilience, and fostering meaningful relationships, both personally and professionally. Listeners will gain profound takeaways from Heather's stories and frameworks, such as: Discover why self-leadership is the ultimate game-changer and how aligning your actions with your values can transform your life and leadership. Join us for this inspiring episode and learn how to take charge of your life, lead with integrity, and leave a lasting impact on those around you. Connect with Heather: Website LinkedIn Book

In this episode of the Surfacing Leaders podcast, host Marc Koehler sits down with his former commander on the USS Pogy, Vice Admiral Joe Leidig, a distinguished leader with 39 years of service in the U.S. Navy and a wealth of experience in both military and business environments. Joe reflects on his incredible journey from commanding nuclear-powered submarines to serving as Deputy Commander of U.S. Africa Command, where he led operations with 2,000 personnel and a $700 million budget. Throughout the conversation, Joe shares his insights on leadership, focusing on three timeless principles: integrity, leadership, and effort. Listeners will be inspired by Joe's stories, including his unforgettable interview with Admiral Hyman Rickover, the father of the nuclear Navy, and how it shaped his leadership philosophy. He also discusses how these principles guided his efforts to transform an underperforming submarine crew into a top-performing unit and later helped him bridge gaps in the defense industry's supply chain in his current role in private equity. Joe offers actionable advice for leaders of all levels, emphasizing the importance of believing in oneself, building trust through integrity, and fostering a shared vision that unites teams. This episode is packed with lessons on how to lead in high-stakes environments and beyond. Join us for this inspiring conversation to surface the leader within yourself! Connect with Joe: LinkedIn

In this episode of the Surfacing Leaders podcast, host Marc Koehler sits down with Elizabeth Yerecic Freedman, a leader in the family business world, to discuss leadership, sustainability, and the challenges of generational business transition. Elizabeth, who is deeply involved in her family's business, Yerecic Label, as Co-Owner and EVP, shares how they've transformed their operations through cross-functional teams and lean practices, enabling them to improve and thrive continuously. Elizabeth delves into the importance of sustainability in business, particularly how her company is making significant strides in creating recyclable and eco-friendly products. She explains how their commitment to sustainability benefits the environment and positions the company as a leader in the packaging industry. With a strong focus on process improvement, Elizabeth describes how a continuous learning and collaboration culture has fueled their success. Listeners will learn about the intersection of family business dynamics, sustainability, and leadership development. Elizabeth shares how saying "yes" to new opportunities can unlock potential, how to drive meaningful change in an organization, and the role of passion in leadership. In this episode, you'll discover actionable takeaways for your own leadership journey: Join us as we explore how Elizabeth and her family are shaping the future of their business and leading with purpose. Connect with Elizabeth: Elizabeth’s LinkedInYerecic Label Website

In this episode of the Surfacing Leaders podcast, host Marc Koehler is joined by Dr. Scott De Long, a serial entrepreneur, seasoned leadership expert, educator, and author of I Thought I Was a Leader. Scott brings years of experience in coaching, corporate leadership, and personal development, offering a wealth of insights on how to cultivate strong teams and become a more effective leader. In this episode, Scott shares powerful insights from his career and personal experiences, focusing on how to foster open communication, create psychological safety, and turn conflict into collaboration, with a special emphasis on connecting across generations. He highlights the importance of self-reflection and empathy in becoming an effective leader. Key takeaways: Join us for a thought-provoking discussion with Scott about the importance of reflection and personal growth in leadership. His experiences and wisdom will challenge you with new perspectives on how to lead with authenticity and intention. Connect with Scott: LinkedIn Website

In this episode of the Surfacing Leaders podcast, host Marc Koehler sits down with the renowned Coach Mark Gottfried, former NCAA Division I basketball coach and leadership expert. Together, they explore the evolution of Mark’s leadership over a 32-year coaching career and the timeless values that drive success on and off the court. Mark shares insights from his experiences coaching at the highest levels of college basketball, highlighting the importance of relationships, patience, and developing a "GID" (Grit, Integrity, Desire) mentality. He discusses the challenges and rewards of coaching, from his early days as a young head coach to adapting his leadership style over the years. Mark also offers candid advice on the changing landscape of college sports, particularly the impact of NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) and the transfer portal, and how leaders must adapt in an era of rapid change. Listeners will gain practical leadership lessons from Mark's experiences, including the crucial value of self-awareness and honest reflection. This episode is packed with actionable takeaways for anyone looking to enhance their leadership skills, including: Tune in to hear Coach Mark Gottfried's story and valuable perspective on leadership and how you can apply these principles in your journey. Connect with Mark Gottfried: Mark Gottfried OfficialThe Front Row with Coach Mark GottfriedLinkedIn

In this episode of the Surfacing Leaders podcast, host Marc Koehler engages in a conversation with Laura Hamill, a leader in organizational psychology and leadership development, founder of Paris Phoenix Group, and author of the just-released book The Power of Culture. Together, they explore the evolving dynamics of leadership, workplace culture, and the impact of generational shifts in the workforce. Laura shares her unique insights from her extensive experience working with companies like Microsoft and her consulting firm, Paris Phoenix Group. She dives into how leaders can create environments where employees feel heard, valued, and empowered. Highlighting the importance of emotional intelligence, Laura discusses how leaders can balance the need for organizational results with fostering a culture of openness and inclusivity. A key theme of the episode is the future of work, especially as Gen Y and Gen Z take the forefront in the workforce. Laura emphasizes the need for leaders to listen actively, embrace diverse perspectives, and rethink traditional office structures in favor of flexibility and trust. She also discusses the role of AI in leadership, explaining how it can be a powerful tool for enhancing decision-making and improving team performance when managed wisely. In this episode, you’ll learn: Join Marc and Laura as they uncover how leadership is evolving in response to shifting societal expectations and technological advancements. This conversation offers valuable insights for leaders at all levels, guiding you to build a stronger, more resilient leadership foundation. Connect with Laura Hamill: LinkedIn: Laura Hamill Website: Paris Phoenix Group

In this episode of the Surfacing Leaders podcast, host Marc Koehler talks with Eddie Pate, a seasoned inclusion, diversity, and equity expert. With a robust career spanning over two decades, Eddie has significantly contributed to leading inclusion initiatives at renowned organizations, including Amazon, Microsoft, and Starbucks, which has equipped him with unique insights into teamwork and leadership in high-pressure environments. Their conversation delves into the pivotal role of empathy in fostering an inclusive workplace and the daily practices that can drive meaningful change. Eddie shares insights from his extensive career, emphasizing the transformative power of recognizing and leveraging individual differences to create vibrant, evolving work cultures. Through the metaphor of 'dropping pebbles,' Eddie illustrates how small, intentional actions can empower individuals to make significant ripple effects on team dynamics and organizational success. Listeners will benefit from Eddie's practical strategies, including: Join us for this enlightening discussion and discover how integrating empathy and intentionality can inspire personal and organizational growth, unlocking untapped potential within yourself and your organization. Connect with Eddie Pate: LinkedInWebsite