In this episode of the Surfacing Leaders podcast, host Marc Koehler sits down with Jeffrey Yip, a leadership professor at Simon Fraser University’s Beedie School of Business and creator of the “Listen and Build” framework.

They explore why listening, not speaking, is a leader’s most powerful tool. Drawing on years of research, Jeff explains how genuine listening builds trust, strengthens teams, and transforms leadership effectiveness. He shares stories from his early military service in Singapore and mentoring youth through the YMCA, illustrating how empathy and curiosity help leaders navigate differences and create connection.

Jeff also unpacks practical tools, such as the “Three Rs” of listening: Regulate, Relate, and Reason, that help leaders diffuse conflict, increase engagement, and foster inclusion in today’s fast-changing workplaces.

Listeners will take away actionable insights, including:

• How to shift from “Chief Speaking Officer” to “Chief Listening Officer.”
• The difference between perceived and true listening.
• Simple daily habits to strengthen emotional intelligence.

Join us in this conversation to learn why listening is a skill every leader can develop and how it can become your superpower.

Connect with Jeffrey Yip:

• LinkedIn
• Website Listeningworks.ca
• Psychology Today Blog: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/listen-and-build
• Harvard Business Review article on Listening: https://hbr.org/2025/05/are-you-really-a-good-listener

In this episode of the Surfacing Leaders podcast, host Marc Koehler has a fascinating conversation with Dr. Paul J. Zak, a pioneering neuroscientist and leading expert on trust, purpose, and human connection.

They dive into the science of leadership, exploring how oxytocin, stress, and shared purpose shape stronger teams and higher performance. Paul draws from over two decades of research in behavioral neuroscience and his work with organizations across the globe, offering insights into what truly drives human behavior at work.

He emphasizes the power of lived purpose, the role of daily rituals in creating alignment, and why challenge, not comfort, is essential for growth. From the neuroscience of trust to his groundbreaking “Six Key Moments” framework, Paul shares actionable lessons leaders can use to build resilient, connected, and high-performing teams.

Listeners will come away with practical strategies, such as:

• How to design rituals that boost alignment and reduce friction.
• Why trust is the ultimate performance multiplier.
• How leaders can create more meaningful, immersive experiences for their people.

Join us for this episode to uncover how science can transform the way we lead, connect, and thrive.

Learn more about Dr. Paul J. Zak: Website LinkedIn Books

In this episode of the Surfacing Leaders podcast, host Marc Koehler has an inspiring conversation with Dan MacQueen, a keynote speaker and resilience expert who rebuilt his life after surviving two brain hemorrhages and years of grueling recovery.

They explore the mindset shifts and daily habits that empower individuals to overcome even the toughest setbacks. Dan shares his journey from a vibrant life in London to waking up from a month-long coma unable to walk, talk, or smile, and the persistence it took to regain those abilities.

Central to his message are three guiding principles: the AAA Framework, Acknowledge, Accept, and Adapt, focusing on being better than yesterday, and finding the courage to risk failure in pursuit of growth. With humor, candor, and hard-earned wisdom, Dan explains how reframing challenges can turn the “worst” moments into the best opportunities for personal and professional transformation.

Listeners will take away practical insights, including how to:

• Build resilience by stacking small wins.
• Shift perspective to find strength in adversity.
• Lead yourself before leading others.

Join us for a conversation that blends raw honesty, actionable strategies, and a healthy dose of humor, leaving you ready to face challenges with grit, optimism, and purpose.

Connect with Dan: Website Instagram LinkedIn