Leading Minds Revealed

In this episode of Leading Minds Revealed, host Michael Apollo sits down with Lamiaa Soliman, a global leader working at the intersection of healthcare, technology, AI, and international expansion.
Drawing from lived experience across the Middle East, Europe, and North America, Lamiaa shares what it truly means to lead across cultures — not from theory, but from practice. From navigating healthcare adoption in culturally sensitive markets to understanding why slowing down can be a strategic advantage, this conversation explores how trust, listening, humility, and context shape successful leadership.
Lamiaa also reflects on growing up in Saudi Arabia, bridging Western and Middle Eastern leadership models, dispelling stereotypes, and why representation, ethical AI, and human-centered design matter more than ever in global healthcare.
This is a thoughtful, grounded conversation for leaders navigating complexity, change, and cross-border work in today’s world.
⏱ Timestamps
00:00 — Welcome to Leading Minds Revealed
01:10 — Introducing Lamiaa Solaiman
02:09 — Returning to Saudi Arabia and unlearning assumptions
03:41 — Women, technology, and shifting cultural narratives
04:57 — The challenge of leading across cultures
05:48 — Healthcare as a culturally sensitive space
06:47 — Why language and naming matter
07:46 — Human-centered design across borders
08:40 — “Same language, different meanings”
10:09 — Family dynamics and patient decision-making
11:43 — Expanding healthcare platforms globally
13:19 — Navigating the NHS and public systems
14:49 — Time, trust, and relationship-based regions
15:53 — Growing up between cultures
18:01 — Skills leaders need in cross-cultural meetings
19:44 — Listening beyond words
21:16 — Growth mindset and adapting to change
22:15 — AI adoption in unexpected ways
25:30 — A lesson in slowing down during conflict
27:29 — Dispelling stereotypes through presence
29:55 — Polarization, identity, and empathy
32:24 — Diversity, inclusion, and lived experience
37:30 — AI, healthcare, and representation
41:14 — Ethics, data, and patient impact
45:43 — Genomics and population health
47:30 — Leadership shaped by upbringing
50:09 — Majlis, storytelling, and leadership without titles
52:45 — Ego, humility, and informed leadership
56:24 — How leaders can build cultural fluency
01:00:19 — Where to connect with Lamiaa
01:02:00 — Final reflections and close
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In this episode of Leading Minds Revealed, host Michael Apollo sits down with Aamer Hasham, Vice President of Client Partner at Bits In Glass, to explore what it really means to lead digital transformation without losing the human element.
As organizations race to adopt AI, automation, and new technologies, Aamer challenges a common assumption: that transformation is purely digital. Instead, he reframes transformation as a deeply human process — one that requires clarity of purpose, empathy, conscious leadership, and the courage to slow down in order to move forward.
Together, they explore leadership blind spots in AI adoption, the importance of understanding why before how, and how mindfulness, reflection, and human connection can actually accelerate performance in complex, fast-moving environments.
This episode is a thoughtful conversation for leaders navigating uncertainty, scale, and change — and for anyone asking how to balance efficiency, innovation, and humanity in the age of AI.
⏱️ TIMESTAMPS
00:00 – Welcome to Leading Minds Revealed
00:32 – What this podcast is about
00:45 – Today’s focus: digital transformation & humanity
01:15 – Introducing Aamer Hasham, VP at Bits In Glass
01:58 – Business fads vs human-centered leadership
02:54 – The tension between efficiency and humanity
03:27 – Why “digital transformation” misses the human
03:51 – Understanding the why before acting
04:47 – Leadership responsibility & creating safe spaces
05:55 – Clear thinking in complex initiatives
06:18 – How AI can create space for deeper thinking
07:01 – Organic leadership vs rigid methodologies
08:06 – Mechanics vs meaning in transformation
09:21 – Asking “why” repeatedly
10:24 – Qualitative vs quantitative value
11:42 – Alignment before acceleration
12:45 – Leadership blind spots in digital change
13:34 – “Failing forward” and cognitive overload
14:27 – Slowing down thinking vs slowing operations
15:33 – Time as a leadership variable
16:45 – Fixed mindsets & unconscious habits
17:19 – Mindfulness and awareness in leadership
18:13 – Meditation, biking & conscious detachment
20:22 – Slower speed as growth
21:47 – Deep thought as productivity
22:43 – Creating human connection in fast teams
23:34 – Getting to know your people
24:25 – Modeling wellbeing as a leader
25:49 – Airline transformation case study
27:14 – Communication breakdowns vs technical issues
28:28 – Reducing chaos through clarity
29:54 – Burnout, flexibility & team awareness
31:14 – Relationships as the core of leadership
32:20 – Productivity vs happiness research
33:28 – Finding balance between efficiency & empathy
34:09 – Lessons from entrepreneurship & legacy
35:30 – Innovation driven by listening
37:14 – Empathy, honesty & difficult conversations
38:58 – Humanity as a leadership advantage
41:03 – AI freeing time for human connection
43:13 – Data, insight & reducing stress
45:01 – Automation enabling better collaboration
46:22 – Using AI for responsiveness, not reactivity
47:31 – Measuring trust and team sentiment
48:52 – Reflection, impermanence & leadership growth
49:57 – Loss, learning & mindset
51:23 – Presence, purpose & relationships
54:10 – Where to find Aamer
56:31 – Closing & subscribe
Get in touch with Aamer:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aamer-hasham-66ab543/
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In this episode of Leading Minds Revealed, host Michael Apollo sits down with Jo Knowler, Head of People & Talent at SBE Media Group, to explore how leaders can build resilient teams in fast-changing, founder-led and AI-driven workplaces.
From team culture to learning environments, neurodiversity, adaptability, and leadership under rapid growth — Jo brings deeply human insights from the front lines of scaling brands like Supercar Blondie and SBX Cars.
⏱️ TIMESTAMPS
00:00 – Welcome to Leading Minds Revealed
00:32 – Introduction & episode setup
01:11 – Meet Jo Knowler: Head of People & Talent
02:10 – Frank the office dog joins the conversation
02:57 – Building teams in the age of AI
03:24 – Why long-term planning is disappearing
05:09 – AI reshaping roles and recruitment
06:09 – No AI experts: test, learn, evolve
07:12 – Rethinking hiring & CVs
08:35 – Gamification and neurodiversity in recruitment
09:18 – Human-centered talent strategies
10:14 – Skills & attributes leaders look for
11:07 – Feedback, adaptability & being thick-skinned
12:22 – Why stubbornness slows growth
14:06 – Rapid change & agility
15:42 – IT and People merging under one leader
16:48 – Founder-led businesses: why Jo thrives
18:09 – Trust, strategy & leadership partnership
19:33 – Where founders get stuck
20:48 – Balancing vision with stability
22:00 – Finding the “adult in the room”
23:21 – Structuring communication
24:19 – Culture, training & growth
25:29 – Transparency from day one
27:04 – Weekly communication rhythms
28:23 – Cross-functional collaboration
29:46 – Clarity & psychological stability
30:34 – Recruiting with honesty
31:35 – Engagement, happiness & retention
32:38 – Listening, empathy & solving problems
33:56 – Coaching & career development
35:17 – Creating learning pathways
37:07 – Rapid innovation & knowledge sharing
39:15 – Turbo Talks & internal learning
41:00 – AI tools, law, and internal education
42:11 – Keeping teams aligned across regions
43:46 – Masterclass in internal learning
45:30 – Leadership lessons from bad managers
47:47 – Showing up consistently as a leader
49:18 – Presence over reactivity
50:52 – Repairing relationships after conflict
51:49 – Support systems & recharge
53:20 – Boundaries, parenting and switching off
55:07 – Book club, community & self-care
57:00 – Intentional wellbeing for leaders
59:39 – How to connect with Jo
01:01:30 – Window-shopping luxury cars
01:02:31 – Closing & next episode preview
01:03:04 – Subscribe for more
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In this powerful episode of Leading Minds Revealed, former UK Member of Parliament Chris Ruane joins host Michael Apollo for a rare and deeply personal conversation on leadership, humility, service, and the lifelong journey of self-transformation. From being labeled a “parliamentary thug” to becoming known as a “mindful fellow,” Chris offers a compelling look at what it means to lead with clarity, compassion, and purpose in an increasingly chaotic world.
🎧 Join us as Chris opens up about his evolution, the role mindfulness played in reshaping his leadership, and the wisdom he gained from decades in public life.
⏱ Timestamps
00:00 — Welcome to Leading Minds Revealed
00:45 — Introduction to the episode
01:21 — Guest introduction: Chris Ruane
02:21 — Catching up with Chris
03:07 — Defining power and leadership
04:36 — Chris’ upbringing and political foundations
06:26 — Serving with humility
07:14 — Leadership styles in times of crisis
08:41 — Authoritarian vs. democratic leadership
10:13 — Citizens assemblies and democracy
11:11 — Human-focused leadership
13:20 — Ego, intention, and authentic leadership
15:12 — Staying connected to the people
16:47 — From “Parliamentary Thug” to “Mindful Fellow”
20:21 — Mindfulness inside Parliament
23:21 — Retaining your spark while transforming
25:46 — Practical impact of mindfulness for leaders
27:55 — Responding vs. reacting
28:53 — Nourishment vs. depletion
29:41 — Gratitude and inner stability
30:31 — The importance of silence
34:04 — Mindfulness and resilience through loss
36:41 — Working on your parachute
38:19 — Navigating uncertainty and overwhelm
40:59 — Why equanimity is essential for modern leaders
41:33 — Learning from great leaders like Mandela and MLK
43:02 — Finding stillness amid pressure
44:46 — Creating space despite commitments
45:55 — The cost of distraction
48:47 — Breaking free from the societal treadmill
50:12 — Are we “wired” to stay the same?
52:38 — The lifelong journey of self-awareness
53:59 — Mindfulness as a creative act of living
56:26 — Values, upbringing, and modern pressures
58:33 — Why mindfulness must start early
59:59 — Polarization and bridging divides
01:01:27 — Mindfulness inside governments globally
01:02:51 — Vulnerability in leadership
01:05:46 — Seeing humanity in others
01:07:11 — Institutionalizing mindful leadership
01:08:33 — Global best practices
01:10:29 — Mindfulness in Canada
01:11:34 — Additional resources and links
01:12:00 — How to reach Chris Ruane
01:13:21 — Closing reflections
01:14:39 — Final message & episode close
01:15:12 — Outro
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Welcome to another enlightening episode of Leading Minds Revealed! Join host Michael and global HR leader Gabi Loureiro as they delve into the transformative power of diversity and inclusion in organizational culture.
 
Gabi shares her extensive experience building inclusive cultures, including her tenure as Vice President of HR at Rose Life Science. They discuss the importance of embracing diverse perspectives, generations, and cultures to unlock high performance and foster innovation.
 
Learn how leading with vulnerability, empathy, and understanding can create a safe and thriving workplace. Tune in for rich storytelling and actionable insights on effective leadership in today's dynamic environment.
 
00:00 Introduction to Leading Minds Revealed
00:51 Meet Gabi Loureiro: A Global Leader in Diversity and Inclusion
01:17 The Importance of Embracing Diversity in Leadership
04:16 Challenges and Misconceptions in Diversity and Inclusion
08:02 Generational Perspectives on Work and Diversity
11:42 Developing Leaders to Foster Diversity and Inclusion
22:58 The Role of Psychological Safety in the Workplace
28:33 The Power of Diverse Perspectives in Decision Making
30:44 The Importance of Empathy in Leadership
34:12 Building a Positive Workplace Culture in a Stigmatized Industry
41:09 Embracing Diversity and Inclusion in Leadership
45:56 The Immigrant Experience and Leadership
53:47 Launching Arise: A New Consulting Firm
56:28 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
 
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Building a Resilient Team Culture During Hyper Growth with Jen Pax
In this episode of Leading Minds Revealed, Michael sits down with Jen Pax, Vice President of People and Talent at Roofer, to discuss strategies for shaping and maintaining a high-performing company culture during times of significant change. Jen shares her unique insights on emotional regulation in leadership, the importance of clear communication, and how to foster a cohesive team environment even during rapid growth. Additionally, she provides actionable advice for leaders navigating high-growth phases, all while maintaining their own sense of groundedness and self-awareness. Tune in to learn how to effectively manage change, retain talent, and cultivate a positive company culture.
00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome
00:55 The Importance of Emotional Regulation in Leadership
02:26 Navigating Emotional Responses During Change
03:39 Building Effective Communication Strategies
10:06 Balancing Leadership and Personal Life
14:27 Team Building and Organizational Growth
32:08 Handling Leadership Challenges and Feedback
46:49 Concluding Thoughts and Farewell

In this transformative episode of Leading Minds Revealed, host Michael Apollo sits down with Daniel McDonald, Head of HR and Chief of Staff at Spartan Race, to explore how embracing discomfort becomes the ultimate catalyst for leadership growth.
From restaurants to manufacturing to leading HR at one of the world's most challenging endurance events, Dan's journey exemplifies the power of saying "yes" before you're ready. In this candid conversation, you'll discover:
Key Takeaways:
Why "the answer is always yes" - and how to build the roadmap after committing
The critical shift from traditional training methods to immersive, conversation-based leadership development
How to have difficult conversations with team members who aren't meeting expectations
The difference between following your passion and doing what gives you energy
Why today's leaders need mentorship moments, not just information downloads
How physical and mental fitness routines create the foundation for resilient leadership
00:00 Introduction to Leading Minds Revealed
00:50 Meet Daniel McDonald: From Restaurants to Spartan Race
02:09 Embracing Discomfort for Growth
04:25 The Journey to Spartan: A Leap of Faith
07:21 Building a Resilient Team at Spartan
14:32 Training and Mentorship at Spartan
25:48 The Importance of Immersive Experiences
29:18 Lessons from Leadership Mistakes
31:26 Understanding and Motivating Your Team
39:10 Personal Practices for Mental and Physical Health
41:45 Finding Passion and Energy in Work
47:58 Embracing Discomfort for Growth
50:03 Special Offer and Final Thoughts
Whether you're a seasoned executive or emerging leader, this episode will challenge you to stop waiting until you're "ready" and start building your capacity for growth through intentional discomfort. Dan's insights on creating psychologically safe environments while pushing teams beyond their comfort zones offer a masterclass in modern leadership development.

In this transformative episode, Lauren Dunn, Chief People Officer at WISS (a progressive accounting firm), shares her journey of reimagining workplace culture in an industry known for burnout and high turnover. With a background in hospitality and a passion for human potential, Lauren reveals how WISS is breaking the mold by prioritizing culture first, then performance - creating a workplace where employees are valued for who they are, not just what they do.
From mindfulness practices with accountants to navigating AI adoption with empathy, Lauren brings practical wisdom on building resilient, high-performing teams during times of rapid change.
00:00 Introduction and Lauren's Background at WISS
02:00 What Drew Lauren to WISS and the Culture Transformation
05:00 The Importance of Female Leadership and Representation
08:00 Defining Resilience Through Mindfulness and Presence
13:00 Supporting Employees Through Life Changes
16:00 The Philosophy: "Why Does an Accounting Firm Have to Be a
Crappy Place to Work?"
21:00 Culture First, Performance Second - The WISS Approach
25:00 Introducing Performance Metrics with Transparency
30:00 The Power of Seeing Potential in Others - Restaurant Industry
Story
35:00 Helping People Embrace AI and Technological Change
40:00 Learning and Development Through Mindfulness and DEI
44:00 Advice for Leaders Building Culture and Performance
47:00 Where to Connect with Lauren and Learn More About WISS
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In this powerful episode, Mark Fam, President and CEO of Oak Valley Health, shares his transformative journey from being perceived as a "machine" or "robot" in his early career to becoming a vulnerable, authentic leader who prioritizes human connection. Serving a community of over half a million residents with over 100,000 emergency visits annually, Mark reveals how vulnerability became his secret weapon for building high-performing teams and creating psychological safety in healthcare settings.
00:00 Introduction and Mark's Background
03:00 The Value of Vulnerability in Leadership
07:00 Mark's "Robot" Wake-Up Call
13:00 Building Team Connection Through Personal Stories
18:00 Creating Psychological Safety
25:00 Self-Care Practices for Leaders
32:00 Mindfulness and Daily Rituals
38:00 Building Culture at Oak Valley Health
42:00 Advice for Emerging Leaders
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In this episode of Leading Minds Revealed, host Michael Apollo sits down with Kristine Collins, the Dean of UC Irvine Division of Continuing Education. They discuss the importance of mindfulness in leadership, the impact of team-centered leadership during times of transformation, and how to navigate change with empathy and strategic precision. Dean Collins shares her personal journey, lessons from her athletic background, and experiences from her professional life that shape her leadership approach. She emphasizes the significance of self-care, trust-building, and keeping learners at the center of educational initiatives.
00:00 Introduction to Leading Minds Revealed
00:50 Meet Dean Kristine Collins
02:57 The Importance of Team Leadership
05:06 Navigating Uncertainty and Change
11:14 Building Trust and Communication
16:30 Personal Leadership Journey
25:02 Self-Care and Leadership
30:01 Cultural Differences and Leadership Styles
30:55 Work-Life Balance in Different Cultures
32:19 Kindness in Leadership
35:08 Trust and Safety in High-Performing Teams
38:40 Human-Centered Design in Education
43:48 Balancing Leadership Roles
47:59 Influence of Upbringing on Leadership
55:39 Final Thoughts and Reflections