The Courage of a Leader

The New Rules of Courageous Leadership in Uncertain Times | Mary Lynn Fayoumi

When the ground keeps shifting beneath us, courageous leadership means leaning into what’s real; our experience, our humility, and our values. Mary Lynn Fayoumi, President and CEO of HR Source, brings decades of wisdom in workplace culture and HR leadership. She guides organizations through disruption with a clear focus on purpose and people, and she shows us how to do the same. We talk about what it takes to lead right now, when answers aren’t clear and the pressure to act feels constant. Courage today looks less like having all the answers and more like pausing to process, listening deeply, and staying grounded in what matters most. It’s about creating space for others, knowing your true north, and responding instead of reacting. Mary Lynn reminds us that it's okay not to know everything, and that strength often shows up as steady presence, not quick decisions. We slow down, reflect, and lead with calm, curiosity, and a focus on what truly matters. That’s how we move forward together. Highlights 1. Calm Is a Superpower - Learn how to find your center and lead from it—even when everything around you feels chaotic. 2. Authenticity Builds Trust - Being real, showing emotion, and admitting you don’t have all the answers creates space for others to do the same. 3. Processing Takes Practice - Hear why leaders need built-in reflection time and how routines can anchor clarity in the middle of noise. 4. Humility Creates Momentum - Letting go of control opens the door to innovation and stronger team engagement. It’s about leading with people, not above them. 5. Purpose Is the Compass - When the path is uncertain, returning to your mission helps guide every decision with confidence and care. Resources Mentioned The Inspire Your Team to Greatness assessment (the Courage Assessment) How can you inspire our team to be more proactive, take ownership and get more done? You demonstrate and empower The Courage of a Leader. In my nearly 3 decades of work with leaders, I’ve discovered the 11 things that leaders do – even very well-intentioned leaders do – that kill productivity. In less than 10 minutes, find out where you’re empowering and inadvertently kills productivity, and get a custom report that will tell you step by step what you need to have your team get more done. https://courageofaleader.com/inspireyourteam/ About the Guest: Mary Lynn Fayoumi, CAE, SPHR, SHRM-SCP is the President and CEO of HR Source, a Chicago-based employers’ association with over 1200 member organizations. She is a highly respected speaker, trainer and advisor and an accepted authority on a variety of workplace issues including culture, employment trends, and HR management. Countless organizations have benefited from her expertise during her long tenure at the association. Mary Lynn is a prolific writer, quoted and published regularly in a variety of industry publications. She currently serves as the Lead Director of the World at Work Board and is Past Chair of the Board of Directors for both the Association Forum of Chicagoland and the Employer Associations of America. She is also an Advisory Board Member of the Community Memorial Foundation. Mary Lynn was honored by Crain’s Chicago Business as a Notable Leader in HR in 2020 and was named the 2021 Woman of Influence by the Association Forum. Mary Lynn is a summa cum laude graduate of the University of Iowa with a Bachelor of Business Administration in Industrial Relations/Human Resources. She also holds an MBA with honors from the Thunderbird School of Global Management. https://www.hrsource.org/ About the Host: Amy L. Riley is an internationally renowned speaker, author and consultant. She has over 2 decades of experience developing leaders at all levels. Her clients include Cisco Systems, Deloitte and Barclays. As a trusted leadership coach and consultant, Amy has worked with hundreds of leaders one-on-one, and thousands more as part of a group, to fully step into their leadership, create amazing teams and achieve extraordinary results. Amy’s most popular keynote speeches are: The Courage of a Leader: The Power of a Leadership Legacy The Courage of a Leader: Create a Competitive Advantage with Sustainable, Results-Producing Cross-System Collaboration The Courage of a Leader: Accelerate Trust with Your Team, Customers and Community The Courage of a Leader: How to Build a Happy and Successful Hybrid Team Her new book is a #1 international best-seller and is entitled, The Courage of a Leader: How to Inspire, Engage and Get Extraordinary Results. http://www.courageofaleader.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/amyshoopriley Thanks for listening! Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page. Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below! Subscribe to the podcast If you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app. Leave us an Apple Podcasts review Ratings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts. Mentioned in this episode:The Inspire Your Team to Greatness assessment (The Courage Assessment)https://courageofaleader.com/inspireyourteam/

UNFILTERED: Courageous Conversations about Menopause

Is it hot in here, or is it… Menopause?In this powerful episode of UNFILTERED, Daphna and Amy crack open one of the most misunderstood and under-discussed life transitions: menopause. From brain fog to emotional turbulence, night sweats to shifting identities, they share their raw, personal experiences and invite you into a conversation that too often happens in whispers, or not at all.This isn’t about medical jargon or “grin and bear it” advice. It’s about real talk: how menopause shows up in our bodies, our moods, our relationships, and our work and why it’s time we stop pretending it doesn’t exist. If you’ve ever felt alone in your symptoms, invisible in the workplace, or unsure of what’s “normal,” this episode is for you. Let’s break the silence and make space for truth, humour, and healing. Timestamps[00:02:11] Menopause experiences and challenges[00:07:10] Symptoms of perimenopause and menopause[00:09:10] Impact of menopause[00:14:15] Redefining identity in change[00:18:51] Sharing personal struggles[00:21:40] The journey of self-acceptance[00:27:06] Leadership and menopause[00:29:27] Authentic conversationsConnect with Your Co-Hosts: Daphna Horowitzwww.daphnahorowitz.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/daphnahorowitz/https://www.facebook.com/PEACSolutionshttps://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/leadership-live/id1524072573Amy L. Rileyhttp://www.courageofaleader.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/amyshooprileyThanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcasts reviewRatings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

UNFILTERED: Courageous Conversations about… Morning Routines

Feel guilty for not joining the 5am club? You’re not alone—and you’re not doing it wrong.In the latest episode of the Unfiltered Series, Amy and Daphna break down the myth that success has to start before sunrise. Explore why early wakeups aren’t a magic formula and how tuning into your natural energy leads to more focus, creativity, and confidence throughout the day. Morning routines aren’t about checking off boxes. They’re about anchoring yourself with what feels right for you. Whether it’s a cup of coffee in silence, a walk in nature, or journaling at lunch, the key is to find moments that support your well-being. Together they share honest stories, practical ideas, and simple ways to create routines that leave you feeling grounded—not pressured.Key Takeaways:1. Stop Forcing Routines That Don’t Fit - Trying to copy someone else’s morning habits can leave you drained. Start with what actually supports you.2. Define What “Morning” Means to You - Whether your day starts at 6am or 11am, your rhythm matters more than the clock.3. Build Anchors, Not Checklists - The power of routine is in creating grounding moments, not ticking boxes. Even five minutes of reflection counts.4. Make Space for Joy and Curiosity - Whether it’s coffee in a park or journaling before bed, choose practices that feel good—not just productive.5. Success Starts With Self-Trust - The most courageous move is listening to your body, experimenting, and trusting what works for you.Connect with Your Co-Hosts: Daphna Horowitzwww.daphnahorowitz.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/daphnahorowitz/https://www.facebook.com/PEACSolutionshttps://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/leadership-live/id1524072573Amy L. Rileyhttp://www.courageofaleader.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/amyshooprileyThanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcasts reviewRatings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

UNFILTERED: Courageous Conversations about… Imposter Syndrome

In this episode of Unfiltered, hosts Daphna and Amy explore the complex and often hidden experience of imposter syndrome. They unpack its psychological roots, how it shows up across different identities and careers, and why it’s so pervasive, affecting up to 70% of people at some point in their lives.Drawing from the original 1978 research that identified the phenomenon among high-achieving women, they reflect on how imposter syndrome continues to impact leaders today. This candid conversation offers thoughtful insight into recognizing, navigating, and challenging these internal doubts, opening the door for greater confidence and self-awareness.Timestamps[00:00:14] Imposter syndrome awareness and admission.[00:04:53] Types of imposter syndrome.[00:11:14] Courage in the face of fear.[00:14:56] Imposter syndrome and growth.[00:20:06] Leadership under pressure.[00:22:18] Unique value and self-awareness.[00:26:40] Normalizing imposter syndrome discussions.[00:30:25] Imposter syndrome discussions.Connect with Your Co-Hosts: Daphna Horowitzwww.daphnahorowitz.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/daphnahorowitz/https://www.facebook.com/PEACSolutionshttps://podcasts.apple.com/ca/podcast/leadership-live/id1524072573Amy L. Rileyhttp://www.courageofaleader.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/amyshooprileyThanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcasts reviewRatings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.

The San Diego Airport Culture Factor: The New Process for Trust, Growth and Expansion (Encore) | Kimberly Becker

Kim Becker, President and CEO of the San Diego County Regional Airport Authority, is leading a bold transformation at the San Diego International Airport—starting from the inside out. We explored how she’s intentionally cultivating a culture that supports change, empowers leaders at every level, and aligns with a fast-evolving environment. Coming out of the pandemic, Kim knew the way they worked had shifted. Rather than revert to what was, she saw the opportunity to design something stronger.We heard how she started with the executive team and expanded the conversation across directors and managers—uncovering surprising gaps and building a shared culture statement together. We’ve seen how she uses everyday team meetings and real-life moments to embed new leadership mindsets, from listening to thoughtful decision-making. It’s not a program. It’s a way of thinking and working that’s now infused into coaching conversations, strategy sessions, and hallway chats. Her story reminds us that culture change doesn’t require sweeping declarations—it starts with intention, consistency, and the courage to have real conversations.Key Takeaways:1. Culture Grows from the Inside - Start with leadership alignment but let the full team help shape and own the culture.2. Empowerment Changes Everything - When mid-level leaders are trusted and included, they bring energy and clarity that transforms the whole.3. Real Conversations Matter - Culture shifts happen when we’re brave enough to name gaps, share reactions, and stay at the table.4. Make Mindsets Practical - Embedding culture happens when values become part of everyday language, meetings, and habits.5. Start with You - Culture change begins with modeling what you want others to adopt—even before you announce it.Resources MentionedThe Inspire Your Team to Greatness assessment (the Courage Assessment)How can you inspire our team to be more proactive, take ownership and get more done?You demonstrate and empower The Courage of a Leader. In my nearly 3 decades of work with leaders, I’ve discovered the 11 things that leaders do – even very well-intentioned leaders do – that kill productivity.In less than 10 minutes, find out where you’re empowering and inadvertently kills productivity, and get a custom report that will tell you step by step what you need to have your team get more done.https://courageofaleader.com/inspireyourteam/About the Guest:Kimberly J. Becker is President and CEO of San Diego County Regional Airport Authority, the owner and operator of San Diego International Airport (SAN). Ms. Becker is responsible for fiscal management and operational oversight of the San Diego International Airport. She has been in the role since 2017, overseeing several capital improvement projects including the $3 billion New T1 program that will replace Terminal 1 with a larger, more efficient facility and other improvements that enhance the airport experience. Before joining the Airport Authority, she was the Director of Aviation for Mineta San José International Airport (SJC) and held operations and environmental positions at Lockheed Air Terminal, now Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR) in California, and Teterboro Airport (TEB) in New Jersey. Under her leadership, SAN has been recognized for its environmental and sustainability efforts, including being named the second-ever carbon neutral airport in North America. She has been named “Woman of the Year” by the San Diego Chapter of Advancing Women in Transportation and “CEO of the Year, Government” by the San Diego Business Journal. About the Host:Amy L. Riley is an internationally renowned speaker, author and consultant. She has over 2 decades of experience developing leaders at all levels. Her clients include Cisco Systems, Deloitte and Barclays.As a trusted leadership coach and consultant, Amy has worked with hundreds of leaders one-on-one, and thousands more as part of a group, to fully step into their leadership, create amazing teams and achieve extraordinary results. Amy’s most popular keynote speeches are:The Courage of a Leader: The Power of a Leadership LegacyThe Courage of a Leader: Create a Competitive Advantage with Sustainable, Results-Producing Cross-System CollaborationThe Courage of a Leader: Accelerate Trust with Your Team, Customers and CommunityThe Courage of a Leader: How to Build a Happy and Successful Hybrid TeamHer new book is a #1 international best-seller and is entitled, The Courage of a Leader: How to Inspire, Engage and Get Extraordinary Results.http://www.courageofaleader.comhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/amyshooprileyThanks for listening!Thanks so much for listening to our podcast! If you enjoyed this episode and think that others could benefit from listening, please share it using the social media buttons on this page.Do you have some feedback or questions about this episode? Leave a comment in the section below!Subscribe to the podcastIf you would like to get automatic updates of new podcast episodes, you can subscribe to the, podcast on Apple Podcasts or Stitcher. You can also subscribe in your favorite podcast app.Leave us an Apple Podcasts reviewRatings and reviews from our listeners are extremely valuable to us and greatly appreciated. They help our podcast rank higher on Apple Podcasts, which exposes our show to more awesome listeners like you. If you have a minute, please leave an honest review on Apple Podcasts.Mentioned in this episode:The Inspire Your Team to Greatness assessment (The Courage Assessment)https://courageofaleader.com/inspireyourteam/