Podcast
Leading Organizations That Matter
Hosted by Rey Spadoni · EN
A weekly podcast covering topics of interest for those who lead, support, or simply care about "organizations that matter". These include mission driven, nonprofit health care and social service organizations that exist in order to improve the lives of those who experience great challenges. Profitability is obviously important... but so too is the recognition of the other forms of value generated in these settings. Podcast topics include how we finding meaning, purpose, and impact in our work, organizational culture, leadership challenges, changing the trajectory of struggling organizations, and practical leadership strategies. Episodes are brief and to the point, always with the goals of informing and elevating listeners. Occasionally, I interview leaders and experts in related fields and hope to bring you inspiration and information to facilitate your personal leadership and life journey. For more information, please see RedSailAdvisors.com.
Music by Kevin MacLeod at incompetech.com.
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70episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
110. The Power of the Preflight Checklist
Yesterday00:05:43Summary readyIn this episode, I look at what leaders can learn from one of aviation’s simplest but most transformative tools: the pre‑flight checklist. After a fatal 1935 crash, Boeing realized that even expert pilots need more than confidence - they need a system. And leaders are no different.I break down how a checklist helps us reduce avoidable mistakes, anticipate turbulence, align our teams, and define success before we ever “take off.” And I share why consistent note‑taking and reflection are the foundation for building your own leadership checklists.
Summary109. Here’s to the Pitchers
1w ago00:04:44Summary readyAre you the pitcher… or the catcher?In this episode of Leading Organizations That Matter, I share a simple lesson from a 1990s golf pro that reshaped how I think about leadership.
Summary108. My Brother Tricked Me and Why You Should Care
2w ago00:10:04Summary readyIn this episode of Leading Organizations That Matter, I dive into the strange, fascinating rise of Eddie Dalton — the soulful, chart‑topping singer.Here, I explore why Eddie’s success leaves us feeling both outraged and oddly indifferent, what’s at stake for human creativity, and why the “blank sheet of paper” still matters more than ever.Bottom line: If creativity becomes effortless… do we lose something essential about being human?
Summary107. Why You Need to Write
3w ago00:05:46Summary readyWhat if the clearest way to think isn’t in your head at all... but on the page? In this episode, I explore why writing isn’t just a creative act, but a leadership discipline. Drawing on Flannery O’Connor, the rise of AI‑generated text, and my own unexpected path into journaling, I makes the case that putting pen to paper might be the most powerful tool you have for decision‑making, clarity, and growth. If you’ve been stuck, scattered, or second‑guessing yourself, this episode might just change how you think... by changing how you write.
Summary106. Seeing the Forest AND the Trees
4w ago00:06:07Summary readyWhat if the way you see the world is shaping the way you lead - without you even realizing it? In this episode, I draw on a surprising source - photography - to explore why some leaders naturally zoom out to the big picture while others instinctively focus on the smallest details. And more importantly, why the most effective leaders learn to do both. If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re seeing too wide… or too narrow… this conversation might just change the way you look at your organization.
Summary105. Renee McInnes: Passion for the Mission
Apr 2100:41:01Summary readyWhat does it take to lead a mission‑driven health care organization with clarity and heart? In this episode, I sit down with Renee McInnes, CEO of Croí Health, to talk about purpose, culture, and the real work of caring for both patients and the people who serve them. It’s an honest, energizing look at leadership in a time when health care needs it most.During this episode, I reference an earlier one on the topic of Medicare Advantage. Please see here for that episode.
Summary104. Maureen Groden: When a Loved One Is Dying
Apr 1400:55:08Summary readyWhat does it mean to truly accompany someone at the end of life? In this episode, I sit down with Maureen Groden, author of When a Loved One Is Dying, to explore the wisdom, clarity, and compassion she offers to families navigating one of life’s most tender passages. We talk about what to expect, how to stay present, and how small acts of love can become moments of profound meaning. If you’ve ever wondered how to show up when it matters most, this conversation is a gentle, grounding guide. To find out more about Maureen and her book, please click here.
Summary103. I Wish That I Was More Data Driven
Apr 700:05:00Summary readyWhat if being “data driven” isn’t actually about the data at all? This week, I unpack a deceptively simple confession from a client and reveal the two hidden skills every leader needs - but most never develop. One is about understanding the dashboard of your organization. The other is about turning numbers into a story people will actually follow. If you’ve ever wondered why your metrics don’t move people - or why your decisions don’t land - this episode might change the way you lead.
Summary102. Look at the Portfolio!
Mar 3100:05:32Summary readyWhat can a photography workshop teach us about leadership? More than you’d think. This episode breaks down why a strong portfolio matters, how to separate real expertise from polished marketing, and what every leader should look for when selecting a coach or consultant.
Summary101. Do We Have a Toxic Positivity Problem?
Mar 2400:05:41Summary readyWe all love positivity - but what happens when it becomes performative, relentless, or downright harmful? In this episode, I dig into the rise of toxic positivity, why it’s everywhere online, and how it can leave us feeling more disconnected and less authentic.
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