
Hosted by Andrew Cohn · EN
Spirituality in Leadership features a broad variety of leaders in profound, one-on-one conversations with host Andrew Cohn. Andrew and his guests explore how to bring spiritual dimensions to teams and workplaces, in service of creating more fulfillment, greater success and healthier organizations. Spiritual dimensions may or may not encompass religion, and broadly include one's deepest values, an awareness of the unseen yet certainly felt realms which exist beyond the tangible. This podcast investigates how we can engage these more profound realms and aspects of ourselves in our workplaces, and how we can incorporate the qualities of presence, acceptance, love, forgiveness, and peace in those spaces, because such qualities are needed in the workplace now more than ever before. Therefore, Spirituality in Leadership aspires to “de-dogmatize" and normalize the topic of spirituality, and to elevate its impact on people in the workplace. In each episode, Andrew gathers practical advice from the unique perspectives of his guests on the benefits of practical spirituality in their leadership. He explores how these leaders/teachers combine their own personal practices, development and spirituality to grow and to create better work cultures.
Andrew Cohn is the founder and president of Lighthouse Consulting LLC. Andrew is a counselor, executive coach and consultant who drives results through improved individual and team performance. A former attorney, his work helps leaders think more strategically, communicate more clearly and effectively, make better decisions, and lead from their values and personal purpose. Over the course of his career, Andrew has been an indispensable resource for leaders in the corporate world. He understands the drive many of us have to reach out and help people fully express themselves in the workplace; his mission involves supporting leaders who want to use their influence to make the world a better place.
The Spirituality in Leadership podcast not only provides access to Andrew’s 25+ years of experience as a counselor and advisor to leaders in a wide variety of business areas, and draws from his extensive educational background in international business, law, and spiritual psychology, but also it brings us each different guest's personal experience and wisdom. These healthy and authentic conversations inspire, encourage and challenge us to do our best work and they provide practical support for stronger leadership and more cohesive teams.

What does it mean to lead with both purpose and integrity in a world that often separates the spiritual from the professional?In this thought-provoking episode of the Spirituality in Leadership podcast, host Andrew Cohn sits down with John Mitchell, a leadership development consultant, coach, and fellow "recovering lawyer," to explore the intersection of spirituality, faith, and effective leadership. John shares his unique journey—from growing up in a military family with broad exposure to diverse faiths, to his current work helping leaders align their actions with their deepest values. The conversation explores the challenges of congruence—ensuring one’s behavior aligns with one's stated beliefs—and the importance of interconnectedness as a guiding principle in leadership. John offers practical insights for leaders across sectors, from corporate executives to faith leaders, on how to navigate hypocrisy, foster inclusivity, and make decisions rooted in integrity. Whether you're a corporate executive, faith leader, or purpose-driven professional, this episode offers powerful, practical wisdom on navigating ethical dilemmas, embracing inclusivity, and making value-aligned decisions in complex environments. Listen now to discover how spirituality can be a strength—not a side note—in leadership. Key TakeawaysFaith and spirituality aren’t the same—but often overlap.Congruence matters. Leadership credibility stems from living your values consistently, not just preaching them.Leaders need mirrors. Coaches can help by reflecting back a leader’s own values—especially during moments of self-doubt or hubris.The best leaders check themselves. High-integrity leaders actively ask, “Are my actions aligned with my beliefs?”Inclusiveness grows from spiritual awareness. A belief in interconnectedness leads to more inclusive and effective leadership.Discernment is not judgment. Leaders must evaluate situations with clarity without falling into prejudice or rigidity.In This Episode:[00:00] Introduction: Faith vs. spirituality[03:00] John’s childhood, military upbringing, and multifaith exposure[06:00] Spirituality through the lens of connection and nature[10:00] Diversity, integration, and spiritual evolution[13:00] Coaching faith leaders and guiding them through their own frameworks[18:00] The danger of ego and the pedestal problem[24:00] Leading with integrity—lessons from a transportation executive[30:00] Self-checks and internal congruence as a leadership discipline[36:00] Discernment vs. judgment in decision-making[39:00] Leadership in law firms and the challenge of tough decisions[41:00] Closing reflections and where to find John onlineResources and LinksSpirituality in Leadership Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/spirituality-in-leadership/id1713365406John MitchellLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thepurplecoachAndrew CohnWebsite: https://www.spiritualityinleadership.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewcohnusa/Music: Kodiak: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4rURKtnJr3jeHvZ0IVRQCe

In this episode of Spirituality in Leadership, host Andrew Cohn sits down with Allison Schultz, coach, writer, and co-founder of Reboot—to explore a deeper, more human-centered approach to leadership.At Reboot, coaching goes beyond developing managerial skills. It’s about transformation—helping leaders access their full humanity through radical self-inquiry, embodied presence, and spiritual integration.Drawing from her rich background, including a master’s in Religious Studies, a lifelong bond with horses, and her new book The Art of Being Human at Work, Ali shares candid stories and powerful insights. She speaks openly about how childhood emotional invisibility and early discomfort with corporate norms shaped her path. Her connection with horses, which she describes as a sacred devotional practice, has deeply informed her understanding of relational intelligence and inner work.Together, Andrew and Ali explore how spirituality, shadow work, and embodiment can shift the very foundation of how we lead and show up in the workplace.Key TakeawaysThe connection between early family dynamics and later leadership patternsWhy Religious Studies offers a surprisingly practical lens for coachingHow horses taught Ali the power of presence, embodiment, and devotionThe sacred importance of shadow work in leadership developmentWhy “making peace with your shadows” is foundational to authentic leadershipHow The Art of Being Human at Work bridges spiritual depth with professional growthThe impact of edited spiritual traditions—and what was left outHow journaling and reflection support sustained leadership growthLeadership as a relational and inner-development practice—not performanceIn This Episode:[00:00] Opening reflections on coaching and religious studies[01:05] Meet Ali Schultz: co-founder of Reboot and horsewoman-philosopher[03:48] Her early tension with work and the seeds of integration[07:53] The practicality of a Religious Studies degree for coaching[11:20] Horses and embodiment: a devotional relationship[15:25] Growing up emotionally unseen—and being witnessed by animals[18:45] Do coaches talk enough about religion and meaning?[22:23] Turning blog essays into a leadership wisdom book[24:37] Parker Palmer quote + spiritual wisdom in the workplace[26:52] How to use the book + journaling for integration[28:44] Reboot's approach to coaching and shadow work[33:55] The sacred act of holding space as a coach[36:59] Where to learn more: Reboot.io and beyond Resources and LinksSpirituality in Leadership Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/spirituality-in-leadership/id1713365406Allison SchultzWebsite: https://www.reboot.io/Book: The Art of Being Human at WorkLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alschultzAndrew CohnWebsite: https://www.spiritualityinleadership.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewcohnusa/Music: Kodiak: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4rURKtnJr3jeHvZ0IVRQCe

In this thought-provoking episode of the Spirituality in Leadership podcast, Andrew Cohn is joined by Dr. Erika Kleestorfer, a seasoned leadership consultant and executive coach. With over two decades of experience in corporate leadership development, Dr. Kleestorfer offers invaluable insights into the intersection of spirituality and leadership. She shares her unique perspective on how understanding one’s essence, core values, and inner light can help leaders navigate challenges and inspire teams to thrive.Drawing on her extensive experience working with global organizations including IBM, Dr. Kleestorfer explains how spirituality in leadership is not just a concept, but a practice that enhances business success, team cohesion, and individual fulfillment. From creating a safe space for emotional growth to utilizing frameworks like the PERMA model, this episode provides both spiritual wisdom and practical tools for leaders at all levels.Key TakeawaysHow understanding your true essence as a leader can transform your team and organizationThe importance of asking deep, reflective questions to uncover core values and beliefsHow to cultivate trust and emotional safety within teams to foster open and honest conversationsThe connection between root cause analysis and spiritual leadership in navigating complex challengesWhy the PERMA model is essential in fostering positive workplace climates and employee well-beingThe impact of generational shifts on leadership and how younger employees are changing the workplace dynamicsPractical tools for integrating spirituality and leadership to achieve both personal and organizational growthIn This Episode:[00:00] Introduction to Dr. Erika Kleestorfer and her background[03:07] The essence of spirituality in leadership[05:23] Key questions for leaders to ask themselves and their teams[07:46] The connection between emotional intelligence and effective leadership[10:25] How leaders can foster a culture of openness and trust[14:17] The PERMA model and its application in leadership[18:45] Adapting to the changing workforce and generational shifts in leadership[23:10] Practical steps for integrating spirituality into corporate leadership[28:05] Closing thoughts on leadership and spiritual growthResources and LinksSpirituality in Leadership Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/spirituality-in-leadership/id1713365406Dr. Erika KleestorferWebsite: www.kleestorfer.comPodcast: Alles Liebe, Erika – Podcast on SpotifyWorkshop: Transformational Leadership JourneyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/erikamariakleestorfer/Andrew CohnWebsite: https://www.spiritualityinleadership.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewcohnusa/Music: Kodiak: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4rURKtnJr3jeHvZ0IVRQCe

How can one’s personal experiences with life and meaning translate into corporate leadership and a legacy of meaning? In this powerful conversation on the Spirituality in Leadership podcast, Andrew Cohn sits down with Steve Hart, educator, leadership coach, musician, and former executive at the Federal Reserve Bank of Philadelphia, to explore the deep connection between the human spirit, meaningful work, and adaptive leadership.Steve opens up about a transformative near-death experience that reshaped his entire life, and how that moment of awakening fuels his mission to infuse workplaces with soul, trust, and purpose. Steve brings wisdom, warmth, and clarity from his early days as a special education teacher to leading large-scale cultural shifts in government and nonprofit organizations.You’ll hear about the surprising lessons leadership can take from nature (particularly Zoysia grass!), how reflection becomes a gateway to growth, and why trust is the bedrock of real transformation. Whether you're leading a team or navigating your inner shift, this episode is a blueprint for blending practical leadership with deeper personal truth.Key TakeawaysWhy leadership starts with trust, not tacticsThe “warrior and artist” polarity is one that every great leader must balanceSteve’s near-death experience and how it sparked a lifelong transformationHow to lead organizational culture shifts with empathy and visionWhat quantum physics and zoysia grass can teach us about changeThe role of reflection and safe spaces in leadership developmentHow places like Cranaleith Spiritual Center (https://cranaleith.org) offer renewal for leaders and frontline workers alikeIn This Episode:[00:00] Introduction and near-death experience[00:14] Leadership foundations in special education[00:34] Podcast introduction and guest overview[01:09] Steve Hart's leadership journey[03:20] Connecting spirituality and leadership[05:23] Special education insights and leadership[10:20] Transforming leadership at the Federal Reserve[20:21] Personal transformation and near-death experience[27:11] Spiritual experiences and family connections[27:49] Discovering Life After Life[28:14] Introduction to Cran Oleth[28:25] The history and mission of Cranaleith[30:20] Personal reflections and leadership at Cran Oleth[32:58] Connecting spirituality with corporate leadership[42:43] Adaptive leadership and organizational change[48:34] Final thoughts and resourcesResources and LinksSpirituality in Leadership Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/spirituality-in-leadership/id1713365406Steve HartWebsite: https://www.theprofessionaldevelopmentgroup.com/Cranaleith Spiritual Center: https://cranaleith.org/Andrew CohnWebsite: https://www.spiritualityinleadership.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewcohnusa/Music: Kodiak: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4rURKtnJr3jeHvZ0IVRQCe

In this episode of the Spirituality in Leadership podcast, host Andrew Cohn sits down with Gino Peremans, a men’s work expert and leadership coach from Belgium. Gino’s journey is both gripping and inspiring—from a challenging childhood to becoming a mentor for men seeking to break free from societal expectations. He shares how he went from feeling lost and disconnected to creating spaces where men can rediscover their true selves.Gino dives deep into the importance of vulnerability, connection, and building healthy communities of men. He talks about the retreats he leads—transformative experiences where men step away from the pressures of performance and status to embrace their inner lives. But this isn’t just theory; Gino offers practical tools to bring this mindset into your personal and professional life. Whether you’re leading a team, a family, or just yourself, his insights are game-changing.This conversation is for anyone who’s ever felt the weight of pretending to be someone they’re not. Gino’s message is clear: true leadership starts with authenticity. Tune in to discover how you can step into a new kind of strength—one rooted in vulnerability, connection, and your truest self.Key TakeawaysExploration of men's work and healthy masculinityChallenges men face regarding vulnerability and societal expectationsImportance of creating deeper connections and conversations among menPersonal journey and experiences of the guest related to emotional expressionSocietal pressures on men to perform and provideThe concept of brotherhood and support among menImpact of modern distractions, such as social media, on genuine connectionsEstablishing safe spaces for men to share vulnerabilitiesThe role of curiosity and reflection in personal growthThe potential ripple effects of men's work on families and communitiesIn This Episode:[00:00] Introduction to addiction and external validation [01:09] Meet Gino: background and professional journey [08:41] Gino's personal journey and struggles [14:21] The role of vulnerability and brotherhood in men's work [17:32] Challenges of modern masculinity and distraction [22:22] Challenges faced by executives and managers [23:25] The concept of a healthy tribe [24:28] Building a sense of community [25:22] Encouraging vulnerability and personal sharing [29:02] Introducing Gentle Giants[32:15] Practical tools for corporate settings [35:32] Reconnecting with the body [38:17] Conclusion and resources Resources and LinksSpirituality in Leadership Podcasthttps://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/spirituality-in-leadership/id1713365406Gino PeremansWebsite: https://www.ginoperemans.com/LinkedIn:https://be.linkedin.com/in/ginoperemansAndrew CohnWebsite: https://www.spiritualityinleadership.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewcohnusa/Music: Kodiak: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4rURKtnJr3jeHvZ0IVRQCe

In this episode of Spirituality in Leadership, host Andrew Cohn sits down with Judi Neal, a pioneer in workplace spirituality and the force behind the Tyson Center for Faith and Spirituality and Edgewalkers International. Judi opens up about her personal journey, including her time at Honeywell, where she took a stand as a whistleblower—an experience that reshaped her understanding of integrity, trust, and spiritual resilience.Together, Andrew and Judi explore how spirituality can transform leadership and workplace culture, making organizations more compassionate, ethical, and inclusive. Drawing insights from her books Inspiring Workplace Spirituality, Edgewalkers, and Creating Enlightened Organizations, Judi shares practical ways to integrate faith and spirituality into daily work life—no matter your beliefs.This conversation is for anyone looking to lead with greater purpose, foster a more inclusive workplace, or simply navigate their career with a deeper sense of meaning. Key TakeawaysIntegration of spirituality into leadership and business practicesThe concept of blessings in the workplace and recognizing inherent valuePersonal experiences and stories related to workplace spiritualityThe ethical dilemma faced by a whistleblower and its impact on personal valuesThe importance of aligning personal values with professional responsibilitiesFostering a culture of appreciation, trust, and community in organizationsThe transformative power of spirituality in creating ethical and compassionate work environmentsImpact of spirituality on leadership styles and organizational cultureThe concept of "edge walkers" as individuals bridging material and spiritual worldsMindfulness and self-reflection as tools for effective leadershipAddressing skepticism and resistance to spirituality in professional contextsResources and frameworks for implementing spirituality in organizationsIn This Episode:(00:00:01) Introduction to appreciative inquiry (00:01:09) Introduction of Judi Neal (00:03:28) Reading from Inspiring Workplace Spirituality(00:04:48) Moment of silence (00:06:05) Concept of blessing (00:07:26) Transforming judgment to blessing (00:10:07) Impact of workplace negativity (00:10:52) Appreciative inquiry practice (00:11:00) Discussion on blessing and religion (00:12:39) Cultural creative study insights (00:14:45) Judi's journey into spirituality (00:15:49) Whistleblower experience at Honeywell (00:16:51) Moral dilemma in the workplace (00:20:46) Spiritual awakening (00:23:24) Consequences of whistleblowing (00:24:33) Spiritual awakening and connection (00:26:35) Legal action against Honeywell (00:28:44) Teaching management and tokenism(00:31:10) Common themes among leaders (00:33:23) Reception of spirituality in the workplace (00:33:49) Defining religion, spirituality, and faith (00:35:48) Building bridges between worldviews (00:39:14) Authenticity and trust in organizations (00:39:59) Creating space for conversations (00:41:26) Practices for opening doors to meaning (00:43:47) Inspirational reading assignments (00:46:47) Eileen Fisher's personal growth initiative (00:48:04) Spirituality as a dimension of diversity (00:51:04) Offering options for spiritual practices (00:52:04) Gateways to workplace spirituality (00:57:00) Gratitude and invitation Resources and LinksSpirituality in Leadership PodcastSpirituality in LeadershipJudi NealLinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/judi-neal-99a1027Book:https://www.amazon.com/Inspiring-Workplace-Spirituality-Future-Work/dp/1837536155Book: https://www.amazon.com/Creating-Enlightened-Organizations-Gateways-Spirit/dp/1137335157Book: https://www.amazon.com/Edgewalkers-People-Organizations-Bridges-Ground/dp/0275989208Andrew CohnWebsite: https://www.spiritualityinleadership.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewcohnusa/Music: Kodiak: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4rURKtnJr3jeHvZ0IVRQCe

What if the most effective and fulfilled leaders aren’t just those with the sharpest strategies or the best data, but those who tap into something deeper—something instinctive? Could the true power of leadership lie in embracing intuition, somatic awareness, and the ability to create nurturing environments? What if leadership goes beyond tactics and dives into the realm of self-awareness, authenticity, and inner wisdom?In this episode of the Spirituality in Leadership podcast, host Andrew Cohn and Alicia Rodriguez, a coach and consultant based in the Algarve, Portugal, discuss the profound integration of spirituality in leadership. Alicia shares her expertise on how leaders can cultivate intuition and somatic awareness guiding them through experiential learning in nature and using innovative tools like sound healing and creative exercises. Together, Andrew and Alicia explore how these practices can help leaders not only embody their values but also navigate challenges with greater clarity, confidence, and impact.Alicia reflects on her transformative journey in Ecuador, where she learned from a shaman, and she touches on the insights found in her book, The Shaman’s Wife. Alicia also emphasizes the vital importance of rest, stillness, and creating the right conditions for success, all while inspiring personal and professional transformation.Tune in to discover how embracing intuition, somatic awareness, and spiritual practices can elevate your leadership style and bring deeper meaning to your work. Key Takeaways The significance of intuition and somatic awareness in leadership. The impact of immersing ourselves in nature on developing intuitive abilities. The importance of congruence between a leader's values and actions. The use of experiential learning in nature to enhance self-awareness. Incorporation of healing modalities, such as sound therapy, in leadership coaching. The concept of "Becoming Limitless" and transcending self-imposed limits. The necessity of granting permission for emotional expression and authenticity.The transformative power of creative exploration and reframing perspectives on challenges.In This Episode: (00:00:00) – Understanding intuition (00:00:20) – Nurturing intuition (00:00:35) – Podcast introduction (00:01:09) – Meet Alicia (00:01:33) – Value of intuition (00:02:43) – Somatic awareness (00:03:50) – Indigenous wisdom (00:04:01) – Spirituality and leadership (00:06:44) – Inner and outer games (00:07:01) – Congruence in leadership (00:08:39) – Examples of incongruence (00:11:02) – Personal story (00:14:06) – Honoring dreams (00:15:18) – Greater awareness (00:19:14) – Sensing and leadership (00:21:12) – Developing intuition (00:21:56) – Becoming limitless (00:23:07) – Nature as a collaborator (00:24:29) – Opening up to new experiences (00:25:07) – Getting out of our heads (00:25:56) – Permission to access senses (00:27:54) – Curiosity and limitless possibilities (00:28:39) – Imagination over knowledge (00:29:06) – Emotional transformation (00:29:52) – The importance of rest in leadership (00:31:07) – Catalysts for personal reflection (00:32:06) – Introduction to the book (00:32:18) – Personal loss and career disillusionment (00:34:23) – Meeting the shaman (00:35:27) – Creating conditions for success (00:38:11) – The book's availability (00:39:08) – Sharing essays and writing (00:40:48) – Closing remarks on wisdom sharing (00:41:10) – Podcast conclusionResources and LinksSpirituality in Leadership Podcast Spirituality in LeadershipAlicia Rodriguez Website: https://aliciamrodriguez.com/ Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/msaliciamrodriguez/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MsAliciaMRodriguez/ Book:https://aliciamrodriguez.com/the-shamans-wifeAndrew Cohn Website: https://www.spiritualityinleadership.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewcohnusa/Music: Kodiak: https://open.spotify.com/artist/4rURKtnJr3jeHvZ0IVRQCe

Like it or not, leadership isn’t just about making decisions and getting things done—it’s about how you get things done. Productivity without purpose leads to burnout, while purpose without action leaves potential unfulfilled. What if the secret to stress-free leadership lies in balancing both?In this episode ofSpirituality in Leadership, host Andrew Cohn sits down with David Allen, the mastermind behindGetting Things Done: The Art of Stress-Free Productivity. Together, they explore the intersection of leadership, authenticity, and inner guidance, revealing how GTD principles can help leaders not only manage their workload but also lead with clarity, trust, and intention.From overcoming overwhelm to embracing the “still small voice” within, this conversation offers powerful insights on how leaders can create an environment of engagement, psychological safety, and true effectiveness. Whether you're a seasoned executive or just starting your leadership journey, this episode will challenge you to rethink productivity—not just as a tool for efficiency but as a pathway to deeper fulfillment and impact.Ready to transform the way you lead? Tune in now and discover how to integrate stress-free productivity with authentic leadership. Don’t forget to subscribe, share the episode, and let us know your biggest takeaway in the comments!Key TakeawaysThe intersection of spirituality and leadershipHow authenticity boosts engagement and trust within teamsThe importance of accepting current realitiesThe balance between personal productivity and collaborationThe role of inner guidance in decision-makingManaging leadership challenges and information overloadBuilding psychological safety in teamsClarity of purpose and direction in leadershipTrust, vulnerability, and authenticity in leadership dynamicsIntegrating spiritual wisdom with practical productivity strategiesTeaching productivity principles to the next generationIn This Episode:(00:04) – Welcome and introduction(00:36) – Meet David Allen(01:39) – Authenticity in leadership(02:47) – Embracing the current reality(03:57) – Tuning into your “still small voice”(04:51) – Balancing practical and spiritual approaches(06:01) – Understanding authenticity(08:11) – The cost of inauthenticity(09:11) – Developing your authentic self(10:30) – The significance of embracing the current reality(12:07) – Managing overwhelm as a leader(14:29) – Tools vs. authenticity(15:03) – Encouraging authentic leadership in others(16:07) – Framework for authentic conversations(19:17) – The importance of vulnerability and trust(20:36) – Engagement and leadership(21:21) – Spirituality’s role in leadership(21:30) – The power of spirit in leadership decisions(23:16) – Authenticity and shifting perspectives(25:48) – Revisiting the “still small voice”(27:13) – Trusting your inner wisdom(28:45) – The power of intention in leadership(29:00) – Drifting vs. intentionality in leadership(30:38) – Acceptance and cooperation(31:54) – Efficient use of energy(32:54) – Completion and creation(34:55) – GTD for teens(36:34) – Integration of wisdomResources and LinksSpirituality in Leadership PodcastSpirituality in LeadershipDavid AllenWebsite:https://gettingthingsdone.com/LinkedIn: https://nl.linkedin.com/company/david-allen-companyX:https://x.com/gtdguy?lang=en&mx=2Book:https://www.amazon.com/Getting-Things-Done-Stress-Free-Productivity/dp/0142000280Andrew CohnWebsite:https://www.spiritualityinleadership.com/LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewcohnusa/Music: Kodiak:https://open.spotify.com/artist/4rURKtnJr3jeHvZ0IVRQCe