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        <title>Leading Across Boundaries</title>
        <link>https://redcircle.com/shows/leading-across-boundaries</link>
        <language>en-US</language>
        <copyright>All rights reserved.</copyright>
        <itunes:author>Scott Acker</itunes:author>
        <itunes:summary>The Long Journey to Leadership is a podcast for those who understand that leadership is not a destination, but a lifelong process of growth, reflection, and action. In this series, we explore what it truly means to become an effective leader—drawing from personal experiences, diverse leadership styles, and lessons learned in the field.

Each episode dives into leadership through a new lens, whether examining a high-profile decision made on the world stage, unpacking a leadership failure in the news, or exploring how different styles—transformational, servant, adaptive—play out in today’s complex environments.

We bring in practical insights, thought-provoking questions, and real-world examples to guide current and aspiring leaders in navigating today’s rapidly changing landscape. Whether you&#39;re leading a team, managing change, or striving to lead from within, this podcast helps illuminate the journey—with honesty, humility, and purpose.</itunes:summary>
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        <description><![CDATA[<p><em>The Long Journey to Leadership</em> is a podcast for those who understand that leadership is not a destination, but a lifelong process of growth, reflection, and action. In this series, we explore what it truly means to become an effective leader—drawing from personal experiences, diverse leadership styles, and lessons learned in the field.</p><p>Each episode dives into leadership through a new lens, whether examining a high-profile decision made on the world stage, unpacking a leadership failure in the news, or exploring how different styles—transformational, servant, adaptive—play out in today’s complex environments.</p><p>We bring in practical insights, thought-provoking questions, and real-world examples to guide current and aspiring leaders in navigating today’s rapidly changing landscape. Whether you&#39;re leading a team, managing change, or striving to lead from within, this podcast helps illuminate the journey—with honesty, humility, and purpose.</p>]]></description>
        
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        <itunes:owner>
            <itunes:name>Scott Acker</itunes:name>
            <itunes:email>likhasolutions@gmail.com</itunes:email>
        </itunes:owner>
        
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                <itunes:title>S5 - PM as.a Leader - E10 Transition from PM to Organizational Leader</itunes:title>
                <title>S5 - PM as.a Leader - E10 Transition from PM to Organizational Leader</title>

                
                
                <itunes:author>Scott Acker</itunes:author>
                
                <description><![CDATA[<p>In the Series 5 finale I explore the transition from delivering projects to shaping organizations. This episode dives into systems thinking, leadership identity, and how influence scales beyond individual teams. Learn how great leaders move from execution to designing environments where success becomes repeatable.</p>]]></description>
                <content:encoded>&lt;p&gt;In the Series 5 finale I explore the transition from delivering projects to shaping organizations. This episode dives into systems thinking, leadership identity, and how influence scales beyond individual teams. Learn how great leaders move from execution to designing environments where success becomes repeatable.&lt;/p&gt;</content:encoded>
                
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                <itunes:title>S5 - PM as a Leader E9 Leading Up - Influencing Sponsors and Executives</itunes:title>
                <title>S5 - PM as a Leader E9 Leading Up - Influencing Sponsors and Executives</title>

                
                
                <itunes:author>Scott Acker</itunes:author>
                
                <description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of the Leadership Journey Podcast, I explore how project leaders can effectively communicate with sponsors and executives, frame decisions, and build credibility upward. Learn how to move from reporting status to shaping outcomes — and why these same leadership principles apply even at the highest levels, where leaders must navigate pressure, competing priorities, and moments of conflict.</p>]]></description>
                <content:encoded>&lt;p&gt;In this episode of the Leadership Journey Podcast, I explore how project leaders can effectively communicate with sponsors and executives, frame decisions, and build credibility upward. Learn how to move from reporting status to shaping outcomes — and why these same leadership principles apply even at the highest levels, where leaders must navigate pressure, competing priorities, and moments of conflict.&lt;/p&gt;</content:encoded>
                
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                <pubDate>Sat, 28 Mar 2026 12:49:07 &#43;0000</pubDate>
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                <itunes:duration>1220</itunes:duration>
                
                
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                <itunes:title>S5 - PM as a Leader - E8 - Decision Making with Incomplete Information</itunes:title>
                <title>S5 - PM as a Leader - E8 - Decision Making with Incomplete Information</title>

                
                
                <itunes:author>Scott Acker</itunes:author>
                
                <description><![CDATA[<p>Project leaders rarely have perfect information when important decisions must be made. In this episode of the Leadership Journey Podcast, I explores how leaders balance speed and certainty, clarify risk, and guide teams through ambiguity. Learn practical frameworks for making responsible decisions when the full picture isn’t visible.</p>]]></description>
                <content:encoded>&lt;p&gt;Project leaders rarely have perfect information when important decisions must be made. In this episode of the Leadership Journey Podcast, I explores how leaders balance speed and certainty, clarify risk, and guide teams through ambiguity. Learn practical frameworks for making responsible decisions when the full picture isn’t visible.&lt;/p&gt;</content:encoded>
                
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                <pubDate>Sat, 14 Mar 2026 13:22:59 &#43;0000</pubDate>
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                <itunes:duration>1333</itunes:duration>
                
                
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                <itunes:title>S5 PM as a Leader E7 Trust Credibility and Reputation Capital</itunes:title>
                <title>S5 PM as a Leader E7 Trust Credibility and Reputation Capital</title>

                
                
                <itunes:author>Scott Acker</itunes:author>
                
                <description><![CDATA[<p>In Episode 7 of the Leadership Journey Podcast, we explore how trust is built, how it’s quietly lost, and how reputation capital compounds over time in project leadership. Learn the four pillars of credibility, how to lead under pressure, and why ownership and transparency are your greatest strategic advantages.</p><p>Because long after the project ends, your reputation remains.</p>]]></description>
                <content:encoded>&lt;p&gt;In Episode 7 of the Leadership Journey Podcast, we explore how trust is built, how it’s quietly lost, and how reputation capital compounds over time in project leadership. Learn the four pillars of credibility, how to lead under pressure, and why ownership and transparency are your greatest strategic advantages.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Because long after the project ends, your reputation remains.&lt;/p&gt;</content:encoded>
                
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                <pubDate>Sat, 28 Feb 2026 17:32:44 &#43;0000</pubDate>
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                <itunes:duration>679</itunes:duration>
                
                
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                <itunes:title>S5 PM as a Leader - E6 - Leading Through Conflict and Tension</itunes:title>
                <title>S5 PM as a Leader - E6 - Leading Through Conflict and Tension</title>

                
                
                <itunes:author>Scott Acker</itunes:author>
                
                <description><![CDATA[<p><span>Projects are built on competing priorities, limited resources, and strong perspectives,  which means conflict is inevitable. In this episode, I explore how project managers can move from avoiding tension to structuring it productively. You’ll learn practical frameworks for navigating disagreement, managing emotional dynamics, handling upward conflict, and turning friction into forward momentum. Leadership isn’t about eliminating conflict, it’s about leading through it.</span></p>]]></description>
                <content:encoded>&lt;p&gt;&lt;span&gt;Projects are built on competing priorities, limited resources, and strong perspectives,  which means conflict is inevitable. In this episode, I explore how project managers can move from avoiding tension to structuring it productively. You’ll learn practical frameworks for navigating disagreement, managing emotional dynamics, handling upward conflict, and turning friction into forward momentum. Leadership isn’t about eliminating conflict, it’s about leading through it.&lt;/span&gt;&lt;/p&gt;</content:encoded>
                
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                <pubDate>Sun, 15 Feb 2026 19:53:05 &#43;0000</pubDate>
                <itunes:duration>851</itunes:duration>
                
                
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                <itunes:title>S5 - PM as Leaders E5 - Becoming the Multiplier Not the Bottlenect</itunes:title>
                <title>S5 - PM as Leaders E5 - Becoming the Multiplier Not the Bottlenect</title>

                
                
                <itunes:author>Scott Acker</itunes:author>
                
                <description><![CDATA[<p>Many project managers slow their teams down without realizing it, not from lack of effort, but from caring too much and staying at the center of every decision. In this episode of <em>The Leadership Journey Podcast</em>, I explore explore how project managers can shift from being the hub of activity to becoming true multipliers. You’ll learn how to increase decision velocity, share context instead of control, build trust under pressure, and create space for your team to move faster and think independently. This episode is a practical guide to scaling your leadership impact without burning yourself out.</p>]]></description>
                <content:encoded>&lt;p&gt;Many project managers slow their teams down without realizing it, not from lack of effort, but from caring too much and staying at the center of every decision. In this episode of &lt;em&gt;The Leadership Journey Podcast&lt;/em&gt;, I explore explore how project managers can shift from being the hub of activity to becoming true multipliers. You’ll learn how to increase decision velocity, share context instead of control, build trust under pressure, and create space for your team to move faster and think independently. This episode is a practical guide to scaling your leadership impact without burning yourself out.&lt;/p&gt;</content:encoded>
                
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                <pubDate>Sun, 01 Feb 2026 18:56:25 &#43;0000</pubDate>
                <itunes:duration>821</itunes:duration>
                
                
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                <itunes:title>S5 - PM as a Leader - E4 Coaching Instead of Controlling</itunes:title>
                <title>S5 - PM as a Leader - E4 Coaching Instead of Controlling</title>

                
                
                <itunes:author>Scott Acker</itunes:author>
                
                <description><![CDATA[<p>Under pressure, many project managers default to control, telling instead of asking, fixing instead of developing. In this episode, I explore how coaching creates stronger teams, better decisions, and sustainable performance, even when you don’t have formal authority. Learn how to replace command-and-control habits with powerful coaching questions, handle underperformance without micromanaging, and stop becoming the bottleneck in your projects.</p>]]></description>
                <content:encoded>&lt;p&gt;Under pressure, many project managers default to control, telling instead of asking, fixing instead of developing. In this episode, I explore how coaching creates stronger teams, better decisions, and sustainable performance, even when you don’t have formal authority. Learn how to replace command-and-control habits with powerful coaching questions, handle underperformance without micromanaging, and stop becoming the bottleneck in your projects.&lt;/p&gt;</content:encoded>
                
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                <itunes:title>S5 - PM as Leaders - Delegation Without Direct Reports</itunes:title>
                <title>S5 - PM as Leaders - Delegation Without Direct Reports</title>

                
                
                <itunes:author>Scott Acker</itunes:author>
                
                <description><![CDATA[<p>Project managers are accountable for results, but often without formal authority. In this episode of <em>The Leadership Journey Podcast</em>, I explore how to delegate work, decisions, and ownership when no one reports to you. Learn practical strategies for creating clarity without hierarchy, empowering specialists without micromanaging, and maintaining accountability through influence, trust, and visibility. This episode is packed with real-world examples and tools you can use immediately to lead more effectively across teams and functions.</p>]]></description>
                <content:encoded>&lt;p&gt;Project managers are accountable for results, but often without formal authority. In this episode of &lt;em&gt;The Leadership Journey Podcast&lt;/em&gt;, I explore how to delegate work, decisions, and ownership when no one reports to you. Learn practical strategies for creating clarity without hierarchy, empowering specialists without micromanaging, and maintaining accountability through influence, trust, and visibility. This episode is packed with real-world examples and tools you can use immediately to lead more effectively across teams and functions.&lt;/p&gt;</content:encoded>
                
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                <itunes:title>S5 PM as a Leader - E2 Thinking Like a Leader Not a Planner</itunes:title>
                <title>S5 PM as a Leader - E2 Thinking Like a Leader Not a Planner</title>

                
                
                <itunes:author>Scott Acker</itunes:author>
                
                <description><![CDATA[<p>Project managers are trained to plan — but leadership requires more than schedules and task lists. In this episode, we explore the critical mindset shift from planner to leader, focusing on outcomes, clarity, anticipation, and judgment. A must-listen for project managers ready to lead, not just coordinate.</p>]]></description>
                <content:encoded>&lt;p&gt;Project managers are trained to plan — but leadership requires more than schedules and task lists. In this episode, we explore the critical mindset shift from planner to leader, focusing on outcomes, clarity, anticipation, and judgment. A must-listen for project managers ready to lead, not just coordinate.&lt;/p&gt;</content:encoded>
                
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                <itunes:title>S5 - PM as a Leader - Leading Without Authority</itunes:title>
                <title>S5 - PM as a Leader - Leading Without Authority</title>

                
                
                <itunes:author>Scott Acker</itunes:author>
                
                <description><![CDATA[<p>Project managers rarely get authority — but they’re expected to lead anyway.</p><p>In this episode, I introduce a new series focused on <strong>project managers as leaders</strong>, not just coordinators. We explore what leadership really looks like when you don’t control titles, priorities, or performance reviews, and why influence, credibility, and presence matter more than authority ever could.</p><p>This episode sets the foundation for the series, challenging common PM myths and offering a practical, human approach to leading peers, stakeholders, and teams through trust rather than control.</p><p>Whether you’re early in your PM career or deeply experienced, this episode reframes leadership as something you practice, not something you’re granted.</p>]]></description>
                <content:encoded>&lt;p&gt;Project managers rarely get authority — but they’re expected to lead anyway.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;In this episode, I introduce a new series focused on &lt;strong&gt;project managers as leaders&lt;/strong&gt;, not just coordinators. We explore what leadership really looks like when you don’t control titles, priorities, or performance reviews, and why influence, credibility, and presence matter more than authority ever could.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;This episode sets the foundation for the series, challenging common PM myths and offering a practical, human approach to leading peers, stakeholders, and teams through trust rather than control.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Whether you’re early in your PM career or deeply experienced, this episode reframes leadership as something you practice, not something you’re granted.&lt;/p&gt;</content:encoded>
                
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                <itunes:title>S4 - From Manager to Leader - E5 - Becoming a Multiplier Not a Bottleneck</itunes:title>
                <title>S4 - From Manager to Leader - E5 - Becoming a Multiplier Not a Bottleneck</title>

                
                
                <itunes:author>Scott Acker</itunes:author>
                
                <description><![CDATA[<p>Great leaders don’t slow teams down — they accelerate them. In this episode, I explore how leaders unintentionally become bottlenecks and how shifting to a multiplier mindset unlocks capability, confidence, and momentum across a team. Practical, reflective, and deeply relevant for anyone ready to lead at scale.</p>]]></description>
                <content:encoded>&lt;p&gt;Great leaders don’t slow teams down — they accelerate them. In this episode, I explore how leaders unintentionally become bottlenecks and how shifting to a multiplier mindset unlocks capability, confidence, and momentum across a team. Practical, reflective, and deeply relevant for anyone ready to lead at scale.&lt;/p&gt;</content:encoded>
                
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                <itunes:title>S4 - From Manager to Leader - E4 - Coaching Instead of Controlling</itunes:title>
                <title>S4 - From Manager to Leader - E4 - Coaching Instead of Controlling</title>

                
                
                <itunes:author>Scott Acker</itunes:author>
                
                <description><![CDATA[<p>This extended episode explores how leaders unlock true performance by coaching rather than controlling. You’ll learn the mindset shifts, practical frameworks, and real-world techniques that help teams think independently, take ownership, and grow into capable leaders. Discover how coaching builds confidence, accountability, and long-term capability — transforming your leadership and your team’s culture.</p>]]></description>
                <content:encoded>&lt;p&gt;This extended episode explores how leaders unlock true performance by coaching rather than controlling. You’ll learn the mindset shifts, practical frameworks, and real-world techniques that help teams think independently, take ownership, and grow into capable leaders. Discover how coaching builds confidence, accountability, and long-term capability — transforming your leadership and your team’s culture.&lt;/p&gt;</content:encoded>
                
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                <pubDate>Sat, 06 Dec 2025 11:42:55 &#43;0000</pubDate>
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                <itunes:title>S4 - From Manager to Leader - E3 - Delegating with Intention</itunes:title>
                <title>S4 - From Manager to Leader - E3 - Delegating with Intention</title>

                
                
                <itunes:author>Scott Acker</itunes:author>
                
                <description><![CDATA[<p>Delegation isn’t about offloading work — it’s about developing people, building trust, and amplifying your leadership. In this episode, In this episode I break down the mindset, methods, and real-world examples of intentional delegation, showing how it transforms teams and accelerates growth.</p>]]></description>
                <content:encoded>&lt;p&gt;Delegation isn’t about offloading work — it’s about developing people, building trust, and amplifying your leadership. In this episode, In this episode I break down the mindset, methods, and real-world examples of intentional delegation, showing how it transforms teams and accelerates growth.&lt;/p&gt;</content:encoded>
                
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                <pubDate>Sat, 29 Nov 2025 12:49:38 &#43;0000</pubDate>
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                <itunes:title>S4 - Special Episode - Employees Do Not Leave Companies - They Leave Bad Leaders</itunes:title>
                <title>S4 - Special Episode - Employees Do Not Leave Companies - They Leave Bad Leaders</title>

                
                
                <itunes:author>Scott Acker</itunes:author>
                
                <description><![CDATA[<p>This special episode of <em>The Long Journey Toward Becoming an Effective Leader</em> tackles one of the most misunderstood truths in the modern workplace: employees rarely quit organizations—they quit the leaders who shape their daily experience.</p><p>Through real-world stories, practical insights, and honest reflection, this episode explores the five core reasons people walk away from otherwise good jobs: broken trust, lack of clarity, poor recognition, limited growth, and leaders who avoid hard conversations. More importantly, it highlights what great leaders do differently—and how those differences directly impact retention, culture, and performance.</p><p>Whether you lead a team of two or an organization of thousands, this episode will challenge you, empower you, and equip you with concrete actions you can use immediately to become the kind of leader people are proud to follow.</p><p>If you care about building strong teams, creating meaningful impact, and leading with humanity, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.</p>]]></description>
                <content:encoded>&lt;p&gt;This special episode of &lt;em&gt;The Long Journey Toward Becoming an Effective Leader&lt;/em&gt; tackles one of the most misunderstood truths in the modern workplace: employees rarely quit organizations—they quit the leaders who shape their daily experience.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Through real-world stories, practical insights, and honest reflection, this episode explores the five core reasons people walk away from otherwise good jobs: broken trust, lack of clarity, poor recognition, limited growth, and leaders who avoid hard conversations. More importantly, it highlights what great leaders do differently—and how those differences directly impact retention, culture, and performance.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;Whether you lead a team of two or an organization of thousands, this episode will challenge you, empower you, and equip you with concrete actions you can use immediately to become the kind of leader people are proud to follow.&lt;/p&gt;&lt;p&gt;If you care about building strong teams, creating meaningful impact, and leading with humanity, this is an episode you don’t want to miss.&lt;/p&gt;</content:encoded>
                
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                <itunes:title>S4 - From Manager To Leader - E2 - Thinking Like a Leader</itunes:title>
                <title>S4 - From Manager To Leader - E2 - Thinking Like a Leader</title>

                
                
                <itunes:author>Scott Acker</itunes:author>
                
                <description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode, I explore the single biggest shift that separates managers from true leaders: the way they think. From seeing beyond daily tasks to recognizing patterns, anticipating outcomes, and empowering others, leadership begins in the mind long before it shows up in behaviour. Through real-world stories, practical tools, and powerful insights, this episode teaches you how to think more strategically, more intentionally, and more like the leader your team needs.</p>]]></description>
                <content:encoded>&lt;p&gt;In this episode, I explore the single biggest shift that separates managers from true leaders: the way they think. From seeing beyond daily tasks to recognizing patterns, anticipating outcomes, and empowering others, leadership begins in the mind long before it shows up in behaviour. Through real-world stories, practical tools, and powerful insights, this episode teaches you how to think more strategically, more intentionally, and more like the leader your team needs.&lt;/p&gt;</content:encoded>
                
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                <itunes:title>S4 - From Manager to Leader - E1 What got you here will not get your there</itunes:title>
                <title>S4 - From Manager to Leader - E1 What got you here will not get your there</title>

                
                
                <itunes:author>Scott Acker</itunes:author>
                
                <description><![CDATA[<p>In this kickoff to Series 4, I explore the pivotal leadership truth every new leader eventually discovers: the skills that made you a successful individual contributor won’t carry you into effective leadership. Through real stories, practical insights, and lessons learned the hard way, this episode breaks down how to shift from doing the work yourself to enabling others to thrive. If you’re stepping into a leadership role—or realizing your old playbook isn’t working anymore—this episode gives you the mindset reset you need to lead with clarity, confidence, and purpose.</p>]]></description>
                <content:encoded>&lt;p&gt;In this kickoff to Series 4, I explore the pivotal leadership truth every new leader eventually discovers: the skills that made you a successful individual contributor won’t carry you into effective leadership. Through real stories, practical insights, and lessons learned the hard way, this episode breaks down how to shift from doing the work yourself to enabling others to thrive. If you’re stepping into a leadership role—or realizing your old playbook isn’t working anymore—this episode gives you the mindset reset you need to lead with clarity, confidence, and purpose.&lt;/p&gt;</content:encoded>
                
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                <itunes:title>S3 - Navigating Change - E5 - Building Resilience in Your Team</itunes:title>
                <title>S3 - Navigating Change - E5 - Building Resilience in Your Team</title>

                
                
                <itunes:author>Scott Acker</itunes:author>
                
                <description><![CDATA[<p>When everything seems to be falling apart, great leaders help their teams rise stronger. In this episode, Scott shares real stories and practical tools for building resilience — keeping people motivated, connected, and confident even in the toughest moments.</p>]]></description>
                <content:encoded>&lt;p&gt;When everything seems to be falling apart, great leaders help their teams rise stronger. In this episode, Scott shares real stories and practical tools for building resilience — keeping people motivated, connected, and confident even in the toughest moments.&lt;/p&gt;</content:encoded>
                
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                <pubDate>Sat, 01 Nov 2025 16:26:10 &#43;0000</pubDate>
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                <itunes:title>Series 3 - Navigating Change - Episode 4 - Making Decisions With Limited Information</itunes:title>
                <title>Series 3 - Navigating Change - Episode 4 - Making Decisions With Limited Information</title>

                
                
                <itunes:author>Scott Acker</itunes:author>
                
                <description><![CDATA[<p>In leadership, waiting for perfect clarity is often the riskiest choice of all. In this episode, I explore how great leaders make smart, timely decisions even when the data is incomplete, the stakes are high, and uncertainty feels overwhelming. Through Canadian corporate and political examples, practical tools, and personal reflection, this episode reveals why courage, communication, and decisive action are core to effective leadership. Learn how to move forward with confidence — even when you don’t have all the answers</p>]]></description>
                <content:encoded>&lt;p&gt;In leadership, waiting for perfect clarity is often the riskiest choice of all. In this episode, I explore how great leaders make smart, timely decisions even when the data is incomplete, the stakes are high, and uncertainty feels overwhelming. Through Canadian corporate and political examples, practical tools, and personal reflection, this episode reveals why courage, communication, and decisive action are core to effective leadership. Learn how to move forward with confidence — even when you don’t have all the answers&lt;/p&gt;</content:encoded>
                
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                <itunes:title>Series 3  - Navigating Change - Episode 3 - Leading Through Crisis</itunes:title>
                <title>Series 3  - Navigating Change - Episode 3 - Leading Through Crisis</title>

                
                
                <itunes:author>Scott Acker</itunes:author>
                
                <description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode, I explore what true leadership looks like when everything feels uncertain. From navigating organizational upheaval to supporting teams under extreme pressure, <em>Leading Through Crisis</em> reveals how empathy, trust, and calm direction can keep people grounded when challenges hit hardest. This episode offers practical strategies and real-world examples of leaders who turned moments of chaos into opportunities for growth — and reminds us that how we lead in crisis defines who we are as leaders.</p>]]></description>
                <content:encoded>&lt;p&gt;In this episode, I explore what true leadership looks like when everything feels uncertain. From navigating organizational upheaval to supporting teams under extreme pressure, &lt;em&gt;Leading Through Crisis&lt;/em&gt; reveals how empathy, trust, and calm direction can keep people grounded when challenges hit hardest. This episode offers practical strategies and real-world examples of leaders who turned moments of chaos into opportunities for growth — and reminds us that how we lead in crisis defines who we are as leaders.&lt;/p&gt;</content:encoded>
                
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                <itunes:title>S3 - Leading Through Change - E2 - Staying Grounded When Everything Shifts</itunes:title>
                <title>S3 - Leading Through Change - E2 - Staying Grounded When Everything Shifts</title>

                
                
                <itunes:author>Scott Acker</itunes:author>
                
                <description><![CDATA[<p>In a world where change never stops, true leadership begins with steadiness. In <em>Episode 2: Staying Grounded When Everything Shifts</em>, I explore how grounded leaders maintain clarity and calm under pressure. Through real-world examples—from Canadian business and public leaders to personal reflections—you’ll learn how to build inner balance, lead with composure, and create stability for your team when everything feels uncertain.</p>]]></description>
                <content:encoded>&lt;p&gt;In a world where change never stops, true leadership begins with steadiness. In &lt;em&gt;Episode 2: Staying Grounded When Everything Shifts&lt;/em&gt;, I explore how grounded leaders maintain clarity and calm under pressure. Through real-world examples—from Canadian business and public leaders to personal reflections—you’ll learn how to build inner balance, lead with composure, and create stability for your team when everything feels uncertain.&lt;/p&gt;</content:encoded>
                
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                <itunes:title>S3 - Leading Through Change - E1 - The Nature of Change</itunes:title>
                <title>S3 - Leading Through Change - E1 - The Nature of Change</title>

                
                
                <itunes:author>Scott Acker</itunes:author>
                
                <description><![CDATA[<p>In this opening episode of <em>Series 3: Leading Through Change</em>, I explore what change really means for leaders — why it’s constant, disruptive, and ultimately full of opportunity. Through real-world corporate, political, and military examples, I reveal how great leaders turn uncertainty into growth, resistance into resilience, and fear into focus. Learn how to guide your team through change with empathy, clarity, and trust — and why embracing change is the true test of effective leadership.</p>]]></description>
                <content:encoded>&lt;p&gt;In this opening episode of &lt;em&gt;Series 3: Leading Through Change&lt;/em&gt;, I explore what change really means for leaders — why it’s constant, disruptive, and ultimately full of opportunity. Through real-world corporate, political, and military examples, I reveal how great leaders turn uncertainty into growth, resistance into resilience, and fear into focus. Learn how to guide your team through change with empathy, clarity, and trust — and why embracing change is the true test of effective leadership.&lt;/p&gt;</content:encoded>
                
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                <itunes:title>Series 2 - Leading Others With Purpose - Episode 6 - Leadership and Emotional Intelligence</itunes:title>
                <title>Series 2 - Leading Others With Purpose - Episode 6 - Leadership and Emotional Intelligence</title>

                
                
                <itunes:author>Scott Acker</itunes:author>
                
                <description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode, I explores why emotional intelligence is essential for effective leadership. I will share real-world examples of leaders who built strong teams by showing empathy and awareness—and the damage caused when EI is missing. Listeners will take away practical ways to strengthen their own emotional intelligence and understand why it’s the foundation of trust, communication, and lasting impact.</p>]]></description>
                <content:encoded>&lt;p&gt;In this episode, I explores why emotional intelligence is essential for effective leadership. I will share real-world examples of leaders who built strong teams by showing empathy and awareness—and the damage caused when EI is missing. Listeners will take away practical ways to strengthen their own emotional intelligence and understand why it’s the foundation of trust, communication, and lasting impact.&lt;/p&gt;</content:encoded>
                
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                <itunes:title>Series 2 - Leading Others With Purpose - Episode 5 -Trust - The Hidden Engine of Great Teams</itunes:title>
                <title>Series 2 - Leading Others With Purpose - Episode 5 -Trust - The Hidden Engine of Great Teams</title>

                
                
                <itunes:author>Scott Acker</itunes:author>
                
                <description><![CDATA[<p>Trust is the foundation of every high-performing team—but it’s fragile, easily lost, and often overlooked. In this episode, we explore how leaders can build, maintain, and repair trust in the workplace, drawing on real-world examples from Canadian corporate, political, and military leaders, as well as global figures. I also share a personal story about empowering my team to tackle challenging projects, and what it taught me about the power of trust. Whether you lead a small team or a large organization, this episode offers practical insights and inspiring lessons to help you harness trust as the engine for lasting impact.</p>]]></description>
                <content:encoded>&lt;p&gt;Trust is the foundation of every high-performing team—but it’s fragile, easily lost, and often overlooked. In this episode, we explore how leaders can build, maintain, and repair trust in the workplace, drawing on real-world examples from Canadian corporate, political, and military leaders, as well as global figures. I also share a personal story about empowering my team to tackle challenging projects, and what it taught me about the power of trust. Whether you lead a small team or a large organization, this episode offers practical insights and inspiring lessons to help you harness trust as the engine for lasting impact.&lt;/p&gt;</content:encoded>
                
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                <itunes:title>Series 2 - Leading Others With Purpose - Episode 4 - Leading Difficult Conversations</itunes:title>
                <title>Series 2 - Leading Others With Purpose - Episode 4 - Leading Difficult Conversations</title>

                
                
                <itunes:author>Scott Acker</itunes:author>
                
                <description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of <em>The Long Journey Towards Becoming an Effective Leader</em>, I explore the art of leading difficult conversations with clarity, compassion, and courage. From handling conflict on a development team to global examples of leaders navigating crises, this episode provides practical tools and real-world stories to help leaders face tough moments head-on. Discover how to transform discomfort into growth, build trust through honesty, and set the tone for a healthier team culture.</p>]]></description>
                <content:encoded>&lt;p&gt;In this episode of &lt;em&gt;The Long Journey Towards Becoming an Effective Leader&lt;/em&gt;, I explore the art of leading difficult conversations with clarity, compassion, and courage. From handling conflict on a development team to global examples of leaders navigating crises, this episode provides practical tools and real-world stories to help leaders face tough moments head-on. Discover how to transform discomfort into growth, build trust through honesty, and set the tone for a healthier team culture.&lt;/p&gt;</content:encoded>
                
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                <itunes:title>Series 2 - Leading Others With Purpose - Episode 3 - Giving and Receiving Feedback</itunes:title>
                <title>Series 2 - Leading Others With Purpose - Episode 3 - Giving and Receiving Feedback</title>

                
                
                <itunes:author>Scott Acker</itunes:author>
                
                <description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of <em>Leading Others with Purpose</em>, we will dive deep into the art—and science—of giving and receiving feedback. From navigating uncomfortable conversations to building a culture where feedback fuels growth, this episode offers practical strategies, real-world examples, and proven techniques to transform feedback from something people fear into something they value. Whether you’re guiding a team, working with peers, or learning from those who lead you, you’ll discover how to make feedback a powerful tool for trust, respect, and lasting improvement.</p>]]></description>
                <content:encoded>&lt;p&gt;In this episode of &lt;em&gt;Leading Others with Purpose&lt;/em&gt;, we will dive deep into the art—and science—of giving and receiving feedback. From navigating uncomfortable conversations to building a culture where feedback fuels growth, this episode offers practical strategies, real-world examples, and proven techniques to transform feedback from something people fear into something they value. Whether you’re guiding a team, working with peers, or learning from those who lead you, you’ll discover how to make feedback a powerful tool for trust, respect, and lasting improvement.&lt;/p&gt;</content:encoded>
                
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                <itunes:title>Series 2 - Leading Others with Purpose - Episode 2 - Listening Like a Leader</itunes:title>
                <title>Series 2 - Leading Others with Purpose - Episode 2 - Listening Like a Leader</title>

                
                
                <itunes:author>Scott Acker</itunes:author>
                
                <description><![CDATA[<p>In this episode of <em>The Leadership Journey Podcast</em>, I will explore why great leadership starts with great listening. Learn how to move beyond hearing words to truly understanding your team—and why listening might be the most powerful tool in your leadership toolkit. With real-world examples and practical habits, this episode helps you build trust, empathy, and influence—one conversation at a time.</p>]]></description>
                <content:encoded>&lt;p&gt;In this episode of &lt;em&gt;The Leadership Journey Podcast&lt;/em&gt;, I will explore why great leadership starts with great listening. Learn how to move beyond hearing words to truly understanding your team—and why listening might be the most powerful tool in your leadership toolkit. With real-world examples and practical habits, this episode helps you build trust, empathy, and influence—one conversation at a time.&lt;/p&gt;</content:encoded>
                
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                <itunes:title>Series 2 - Leading Others With Purpose - Episode 1 - The Power of Presence</itunes:title>
                <title>Series 2 - Leading Others With Purpose - Episode 1 - The Power of Presence</title>

                
                
                <itunes:author>Scott Acker</itunes:author>
                
                <description><![CDATA[<p>Presence isn’t about charisma or commanding attention—it’s about how fully you show up for others. In this episode, we explore what true leadership presence looks like, why it matters, and how to cultivate it through small, intentional habits. You’ll hear real-world examples of leaders who inspired trust and calm simply by being grounded and authentic, and you’ll walk away with practical strategies to strengthen your own presence—especially when it matters most. Because when you’re fully present, you’re not just seen—you’re felt.</p>]]></description>
                <content:encoded>&lt;p&gt;Presence isn’t about charisma or commanding attention—it’s about how fully you show up for others. In this episode, we explore what true leadership presence looks like, why it matters, and how to cultivate it through small, intentional habits. You’ll hear real-world examples of leaders who inspired trust and calm simply by being grounded and authentic, and you’ll walk away with practical strategies to strengthen your own presence—especially when it matters most. Because when you’re fully present, you’re not just seen—you’re felt.&lt;/p&gt;</content:encoded>
                
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                <itunes:title>Series 1 - Becoming a Leader - Episode 5 - Leading Upwards — Inspiring Those Who Lead You</itunes:title>
                <title>Series 1 - Becoming a Leader - Episode 5 - Leading Upwards — Inspiring Those Who Lead You</title>

                
                
                <itunes:author>Scott Acker</itunes:author>
                
                <description><![CDATA[<p>In this special bonus episode, we explore the often-overlooked art of leading those above you. Learn how to influence with integrity, offer upward feedback with courage and tact, and inspire senior leaders to walk the talk. Packed with global examples, emotional intelligence insights, and practical tools, this episode challenges you to become a leadership force—no matter your title.</p>]]></description>
                <content:encoded>&lt;p&gt;In this special bonus episode, we explore the often-overlooked art of leading those above you. Learn how to influence with integrity, offer upward feedback with courage and tact, and inspire senior leaders to walk the talk. Packed with global examples, emotional intelligence insights, and practical tools, this episode challenges you to become a leadership force—no matter your title.&lt;/p&gt;</content:encoded>
                
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                <itunes:title>Series 1 - Becoming a Leader - Episode 4 - Inpiring Lasting Impact</itunes:title>
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                <itunes:author>Scott Acker</itunes:author>
                
                <description><![CDATA[<p>In the final episode of our core series, we explore what it means to lead with purpose and create a legacy that lasts. Through real-world stories and personal reflections, we uncover how great leadership isn’t just about results — it’s about the ripple effect you leave behind. Discover how to align your actions with long-term impact and become the kind of leader people remember for all the right reasons.</p>]]></description>
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                <itunes:title>Series 1 - Becoming a Leader - Episode 3 - Building and Empowering Your Team</itunes:title>
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                <itunes:author>Scott Acker</itunes:author>
                
                <description><![CDATA[<p>Discover how effective leaders build trust, foster collaboration, and empower individuals to thrive. This episode explores the mindset, habits, and strategies needed to create high-performing, resilient teams—where every member feels valued, challenged, and inspired to lead in their own way.</p>]]></description>
                <content:encoded>&lt;p&gt;Discover how effective leaders build trust, foster collaboration, and empower individuals to thrive. This episode explores the mindset, habits, and strategies needed to create high-performing, resilient teams—where every member feels valued, challenged, and inspired to lead in their own way.&lt;/p&gt;</content:encoded>
                
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                <itunes:title>Series 1 - Becoming a Leader - Episode 2 - Leading Yourself First</itunes:title>
                <title>Series 1 - Becoming a Leader - Episode 2 - Leading Yourself First</title>

                
                
                <itunes:author>Scott Acker</itunes:author>
                
                <description><![CDATA[<p>Great leadership starts within. In this episode, we explore the three pillars of self-leadership—self-awareness, self-discipline, and self-compassion—through real-life stories and practical tools to help you lead with clarity, confidence, and integrity.</p>]]></description>
                <content:encoded>&lt;p&gt;Great leadership starts within. In this episode, we explore the three pillars of self-leadership—self-awareness, self-discipline, and self-compassion—through real-life stories and practical tools to help you lead with clarity, confidence, and integrity.&lt;/p&gt;</content:encoded>
                
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                <pubDate>Mon, 23 Jun 2025 10:00:13 &#43;0000</pubDate>
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                <itunes:title>Series 1 - Becoming a Leader - Episode 1 - Where Leadership Really Begins</itunes:title>
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                <itunes:author>Scott Acker</itunes:author>
                
                <description><![CDATA[<p>In Episode One, we’ll explore what leadership really means. We’ll talk about the mindsets, habits, and attitudes that form a strong foundation. Because before you can lead others, you have to understand what it means to lead yourself.</p>]]></description>
                <content:encoded>&lt;p&gt;In Episode One, we’ll explore what leadership really means. We’ll talk about the mindsets, habits, and attitudes that form a strong foundation. Because before you can lead others, you have to understand what it means to lead yourself.&lt;/p&gt;</content:encoded>
                
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                <itunes:title>Becoming a Leader - Intro</itunes:title>
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                <itunes:author>Scott Acker</itunes:author>
                
                <description><![CDATA[<p>Are great leaders born—or built? <em>Becoming a Leader</em> is a four-part podcast series that guides you through the essential phases of leadership development. From stepping into leadership for the first time to mastering self-awareness, building empowered teams, and inspiring long-term impact, each episode offers practical tools, real-world stories, and thoughtful insights. Whether you&#39;re a new manager, emerging leader, or simply ready to grow, this series will help you lead with clarity, confidence, and purpose.</p>]]></description>
                <content:encoded>&lt;p&gt;Are great leaders born—or built? &lt;em&gt;Becoming a Leader&lt;/em&gt; is a four-part podcast series that guides you through the essential phases of leadership development. From stepping into leadership for the first time to mastering self-awareness, building empowered teams, and inspiring long-term impact, each episode offers practical tools, real-world stories, and thoughtful insights. Whether you&amp;#39;re a new manager, emerging leader, or simply ready to grow, this series will help you lead with clarity, confidence, and purpose.&lt;/p&gt;</content:encoded>
                
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