May 9, 2025
What Is Authentic Leadership? 7 Lessons from Podcast Guests
A World of Difference is a leadership podcast for senior executives who know that culture, trust, and human systems are now decisive competitive advantages,and that blind spots at the top carry real risk.
Hosted by Lori Adams-Brown, Strategic Transformation Executive and global leadership advisor, this podcast goes beneath surface-level leadership trends to examine what actually drives performance, engagement, and resilience in today’s complex, high-pressure organizations. These conversations reveal the patterns many leaders sense, but rarely have time or space to fully examine.
Each episode helps CEOs, CHROs, and global teams:
Identify hidden cultural dynamics and leadership blind spots
Understand why well-intentioned change efforts stall or fail
Navigate burnout, silence, and disengagement without sacrificing performance
Build psychological safety, trust, and accountability at scale
Develop future-of-work leadership skills that translate across industries and cultures
Drawing on decades of experience working across global systems, Lori brings a rare blend of research-based insight, cross-cultural fluency, and executive-level clarity. This is not theory for theory’s sake. It’s practical, human-centered leadership intelligence for those responsible for people, strategy, and outcomes.
A World of Difference is especially relevant for leaders operating in:
Global and matrixed organizations
Periods of transformation, growth, or uncertainty
Talent retention and workforce trust challenges
Post-burnout and post-crisis environments
These are the conversations many leadership teams wish they were having about power, voice, boundaries, and the real human cost of “business as usual.” Listening isn’t just informative; it sharpens decision-making and challenges assumptions that no longer serve today’s workforce.
If you are responsible for leading people through complexity, and want to avoid costly cultural blind spots, this podcast is for you.
Here are some great episodes to start with.
Some conversations stay with us because they name what we’ve been living but haven’t had words for yet. This episode is one of those moments, a reminder that gratitude does not require us to deny our pain, and authenticity do...
Ever started a new job and realized the “real work” isn’t just the work. It’s learning the culture, the decision-making rhythm, and what success actually looks like? In this re-released best-of conversation, Dr. Shweta Miglani breaks down the small, practical moves that help you ramp faster, build credibility, and grow your career without burning out. Dr. Miglani shares how her journey began in journalism, pivoted through learning science and instructional design, and expanded into global tal
As 2025 comes to a close, this episode is a love letter to difference makers everywhere—those navigating change, courage, career pivots, and complex workplaces. Lori Adams-Brown reflects on the books that shaped her thinking ...
What if the talent your organization is searching for is already inside your walls? In this Best of episode, Lori revisits one of the most impactful conversations of the year with talent strategy expert Dr. Edie Goldberg, and...
Are you feeling the weight of leadership decisions that seem to pull you away from your core values? You're not alone in wrestling with what it means to lead authentically when the world around us feels increasingly divided a...
Are you leading with the assumption that your team is operating from a place of psychological safety? The reality might shock you. Recent research reveals that 80% of workplace professionals have experienced trauma that direc...
Are you feeling the tension between staying authentic and using AI tools in your leadership? You're not alone. Many executives are grappling with this exact challenge, and the stakes have never been higher. What happens when ...
Dr. Kristin Du Mez shares with us how John Wayne became the iconic influence on white Evangelical men in the US, and how that shaped both history and the present.
In this engaging conversation, Lori Adams-Brown interviews Mita Mallick about her book "The Devil Emails at Midnight: What Good Leaders Can Learn from Bad Bosses." Mita shares personal stories and insights on leadership, work...
If you're feeling stuck in the same old thought patterns, journaling your heart out only to end up reliving the same pain, or you keep trying new workshops and self-help tricks but still feel disconnected from your creativity and sense of wonder, then you are not alone! If you’ve signed up for writing classes hoping for transformation but walk away feeling more self-critical instead, or you’re longing for a breakthrough but just keep hitting that emotional wall, then you are not alone! If you ke
Join us for an inspiring conversation with Dr. Pamela Donnelly, founder of the American Access Institute, as she shares her mission to support vulnerable teens, including those aging out of foster care. Discover how the Catap...
Ever wondered if the very things that make you feel “too much” at work are actually what your team needs most? What if being highly sensitive or neurodivergent isn’t just something to manage, but a legitimate edge—one that could actually shape the future of leadership? In today’s conversation, you’ll hear a take on empathy, burnout, and workplace inclusion that might flip how you see yourself (and your coworkers) on its head. But there’s one perspective Rachel shares—about a hidden risk most sen
Are you ready to finally escape the soul-crushing grip of toxic bosses and workplaces for good? Imagine waking up on Monday actually excited for work, feeling confident you can spot the red flags before you ever get trapped again, and knowing exactly how to protect your peace (and your career) no matter who’s in charge. I’m breaking down the real-life strategies, warning signs, and support systems you need to get there—so you can stop surviving and start thriving, even if you’re not ready to qui
Ever wondered what really happens behind closed boardroom doors when leaders are faced with uncomfortable truths, especially when speaking up could cost them their job? This conversation isn’t just about corporate buzzwords o...
Ever wondered if being “nice” at work could actually be making everything worse? Picture this: a leader so shielded by everyone’s politeness that a single, cringeworthy comment in the halls of Congress nearly tanks a $9 milli...
. If you're feeling exhausted from trying to process your third culture kid or MK experience—maybe you've already read memoirs, joined support groups, or tried to explain the complexity of evangelical politics to your friends, but still end up feeling misunderstood, unmoored, or even invisible, then you are not alone! If you've spent hours wrestling with the tension between your parents' good work and the darker sides of white evangelicalism, but instead of clarity, you get more tangled up in gu
Get ready to be blown away by a Silicon Valley powerhouse turned leadership consultant's unexpected journey from tech industry leader to trailblazing author. This story will inspire you to rethink your approach to leadership and human connection. Stay tuned to learn how a pivotal event led to a powerful career pivot and a mission to create psychologically safe work environments. You won't want to miss this eye-opening conversation.
Are you ready for a surprising truth? The key to creating a healthier workplace might lie in the hands of those who are unintentionally contributing to toxicity. Intrigued? Let's uncover the unexpected impact of abrasive leaders and how they could be the catalyst for positive change. Keep those earbuds in, because there's a whole new perspective waiting for you.
Feeling overwhelmed at work? This conversation will open your eyes to a whole new approach to company culture and leadership. Discover how to lead with clarity, fight for better workplace environments, and keep your humanity intact. Join us as we dive deep into the wisdom of Tamesa Rogers, a powerhouse in tech who spent 25 years building global teams and shifting company cultures. You'll be amazed by her insights and empowered to make a difference in your own workplace. Stay tuned for the exclus
Have you ever heard the myths about achieving corporate board diversity? Let's debunk three common misconceptions: 1. There aren't enough qualified women for board positions. 2. Women need just one more qualification before they're ready for the board. 3. CEOs are the only suitable candidates for board seats. The truth behind these myths is eye-opening, and I'm here to share it with you.
Have you heard these myths about women in STEM? Myth 1: Women leave STEM careers because they prioritize family over work. Myth 2: Women lack the skills and aptitude for STEM fields. Myth 3: Women don't want leadership roles ...
Have you heard these common myths about impactful careers? Myth 1: You have to choose between making money and making a difference. Myth 2: Internships are only beneficial in the early stages of your career. Myth 3: Networkin...
Get ready to be blown away by the unexpected superpowers of a corporate communication expert. This is not your typical leadership conversation. Brace yourself for wisdom that transcends industries and cultures, and stay tuned for a revelation that will transform the way you see communication in organizations. Are you ready to unlock the hidden potential of your team? Let's dive in and discover the unexpected with Alejandra Ramirez.
Discover the unexpected journey of a powerhouse woman who defied cultural norms, navigated loss, and redefined success. From smashing glass ceilings in the biopharmaceutical world to overcoming the sudden death of her beloved...
If you're feeling like your workplace culture is draining the life out of you, constantly leaving you feeling exhausted and undervalued, then you are not alone! It's time to stop waiting for a change to happen and start building a culture that actually works for you and your team. Garry Ridge is the Chairman Emeritus of WD-40 Company, where he spent 25 years as CEO, building a culture of trust, belonging, and engagement that drove both business success and human flourishing. Now, as The Culture
If you're feeling the weight of past trauma and struggling to heal, then you are not alone! The journey to healing from abuse and trauma is often filled with challenges, and finding the right tools to navigate this journey ca...
Are you ready to uncover the unexpected truth about workplace bullying and abuse tactics? Get ready to be surprised as we dive deep into the world of psychological safety and resilience in high-stress work environments. This ...
If you're feeling overwhelmed by the current geopolitical tensions and the fear of not being able to fully express your identity, then you are not alone! The impact of these tensions on immigrants, especially Latina professionals, is creating a sense of anxiety and uncertainty in the workplace. The fear of being misunderstood, discriminated against, or even facing potential deportation is causing unnecessary stress and hindering your ability to thrive. It's a painful emotion that many Latina pro
Have you ever heard the myths about building trust through emotional intelligence, dealing with workplace bullying, and the importance of empathy in leadership? Let's debunk these myths together. Myth 1: Building trust throug...
If you're feeling the weight of self-muting and self-sacrifice, constantly putting others' needs before your own, and feeling like your voice and impact are being silenced, then you are not alone!
Step into a world where career success is redefined by one powerhouse leader's game-changing strategy. You won't believe what Dr. Shveta Miglani reveals about accelerating growth with one simple mindset shift. Find out how this lesser-known advice is transforming professionals' careers and making a world of difference. Stay tuned for the big reveal and get ready to take charge of your success!
In this episode of "A World of Difference," Dr. Beth Allison Barr shares her expertise as a historian, author, and pastor's wife, offering a unique perspective on the historical and contemporary experiences of women in ministry, particularly as pastor's wives with her new book "Becoming the Pastor's Wife."
Discover the unexpected side of a remarkable leader, Julie Castro Abrams, as she shares her journey and vision for women's empowerment. Stay tuned to find out her surprising hopes for 2025 and the inspiring work she's doing t...
Have you heard the myths about the future of work talent management strategies? Let's debunk three myths: 1. Internal talent marketplaces only benefit employees, 2. Skills-based hiring practices limit diversity, and 3. Women ...
If you're feeling bewildered and unsure about how to navigate the influence of white male voters in the US election, then you are not alone! The current political landscape can leave you feeling overwhelmed and lost, especial...
Do you want to truly understand the impact of international adoption and the complex web of privilege and bias it entails? If you're seeking the solution to this, then join me as we delve into this eye-opening conversation th...
Do you want to become a part of a movement that empowers women and gender expansive creators, providing them with opportunities to showcase their talents and secure fair pay? If you're ready to be a part of this transformative change, I'll be sharing the solution so that you can join in and make a difference. Let's dive in and create a more inclusive and supportive environment for women in the music industry and beyond.
Become a patron of this podcast , and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon . ********** Trigger warning: If you have experienced spiritual abuse, emotional abuse, psychological abuse or any type of...
Become a patron of this podcast , and enjoy free merch. Join other patrons of this podcast at Patreon . ********** Trigger warning: If you have experienced spiritual abuse, emotional abuse, psychological abuse or any type of...
Do you ever feel like you're constantly hustling but not getting anywhere? You've been told to push through, to give, to hustle, and it's left you feeling exhausted and overwhelmed. But what if there's a better way to lead with strength and wholeness without burning out? If you're ready to step into your full potential and lead from a place of energy and vitality, then you need to hear this. Let's dive in and discover a new approach to leadership that's truly transformative. In this episode,
If you're feeling stuck in your career, wondering why you're not getting the recognition you deserve, and feeling overwhelmed by the ever-changing work landscape, then you are not alone! Let's unpack these challenges and find the solutions together.
Are you leading teams across cultures but struggling to understand why brilliant strategies fail and talented people clash? The answer might be simpler than you think, and more complex than you've imagined. What happens when the biggest barrier to global leadership isn't language or logistics, but the invisible assumptions we carry about how work should get done? Maria Angela Calmet has spent over 15 years leading projects across five continents, and she's discovered that the most successful
What happens when faith communities quietly replace women’s leadership with unpaid, invisible labor? In this powerful Best of most downloaded episode of 2025 re-release, historian and bestselling author Dr. Beth Allison Barr joins Lori Adams-Brown to unpack how the role of the “pastor’s wife” became a substitute for women’s ordination—and the deep harm that followed. Drawing from her book Becoming the Pastor’s Wife, Beth combines rigorous historical research with lived experience to show how
What do you do when the doors you’ve worked for keep closing because of factors you can’t control? In this episode, Rebeca Lopez Valerio shares how she turned “no” into fuel, built opportunities from scratch, and learned to lead with coraje, heart-forward courage rooted in identity, resilience, and values.
Rebeca’s story is powerful and deeply human. Born in Mexico with Indigenous roots from the Oaxaca/Puebla region, she immigrated to the U.S. at age four and navigated life as a firs…
Podcast Host &. Executive Producer
Lori Adams-Brown is Director, Global Talent Development in a Silicon Valley tech company. She hosts the top 5% global podcast A World of Difference, where she interviews authentic leaders about their unique differences and encouraging us all to make a difference around the world together. She is an international speaker and consultant with over 20 years of global management work experience from living and working on 3 continents. She sits on the Silicon Valley Executive Board of How Women Lead and on the board of Justice Revival in Washington, D.C.
Raised in international schools in Costa Rica and Venezuela, and having lived and worked in Southeast Asia for 20 years, Lori has led cross-functional global teams to do everything from tsunami relief to community development to business. As a former international relief & development leader, she has led distributed global teams in multiple countries where she learned to speak six languages. She has spoken to audiences in Singapore, Venezuela, Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, Brunei, and all over the US. She holds a BA in both Sociology and Spanish and a Master of Arts in Intercultural Studies.
Her happy place is sipping a flat white coffee and having a deep conversation while enjoying either a beach or mountain vacation with the love of her life, Jason, their urbanite TCK teens, and rescue dog.
