The Practitioner-Scholar: The PennCLO Podcast

In this episode of the Practitioner Scholar, host Becca Clanton interviews Dr. Peg Klein, a distinguished alumna of the Penn Chief Learning Officer (CLO) program. Dr. Klein shares her unique journey from growing up near a Naval base to becoming a Navy officer and eventually an ethical leadership scholar. She discusses the impact of her early exposure to the military and aviation on her career, and the pivotal moment when she discovered her 'superpower'—a strong moral compass that guided her leadership style. Dr. Klein emphasizes the profound influence of ethical leadership, defined through James Bass's concept of self-discipline and accountability, and its critical role in organizational success. She recounts her experiences in the Navy, including a significant role investigating ethical lapses within the Department of Defense. Transitioning to academia, Dr. Klein pursued a doctoral degree to further explore ethical leadership and its implications. Her research, particularly on the confluence of mentorship and leadership, highlights the importance of aligning words and deeds and the powerful role of leaders as role models. Dr. Klein also shares practical advice for dissertation candidates, stressing the need for flexibility and openness to evolving research topics. She concludes by discussing her role at the Naval War College and how she applies her research insights to develop leadership courses. Listeners can learn more by visiting the Naval War College website or connecting with Dr. Klein on LinkedIn. This episode offers valuable perspectives on integrating ethical principles into leadership and the ongoing journey of lifelong learning.

In this episode of the Practitioner Scholar podcast, host Jess Jones interviews Dr. John 'Coach' Havlick, a retired Navy SEAL Captain, Hall of Fame swimmer, and Penn CLO graduate. They discuss Dr. Havlick's storied career, from college swimming and coaching at the Naval Academy to leading elite SEAL units and his subsequent career in consulting and academia. Dr. Havlick shares insights from his book 'The Leadership Killer' and his Ph.D. research on stress management in elite performers, providing actionable strategies for routine adherence, focus, and healthy distractions. Additionally, Dr. Havlick emphasizes the importance of faith among SEALs and discusses his plans for future scholarly work and helping veterans through education.

In this episode of the Practitioner Scholar, hosted by Lisa-Marie Aird, we welcome Dr. Lilian Ajayi Ore, a distinguished digital marketing strategist, top LinkedIn influencer, and humanitarian.Dr. Ajayi Ore, an alumna of the Penn Chief Learning Officer (CLO) program, shares her journey and insights from her extensive career in global diplomacy, corporate industry, consulting, and academia. The discussion centers around the importance of having a strategic digital presence for executives and emerging leaders.Dr. Ajayi Ore provides five essential tips for executive branding: being present and strategic, understanding your purpose, creating a personal website, developing a content strategy, and practicing self-promotion. She underscores the value of continuous and lifelong learning, emphasizing its role in professional growth and personal fulfillment. Dr. Ajayi Ore also reflects on her enriching experience in the Penn CLO program and how it shaped her professional and personal development. 

In this enlightening episode of the Practitioner Scholar, Lisa-Marie Aird welcomes Dr. Raj Ramachardran, a trailblazer in leadership consulting and an alum of the Penn CLO program's first cohort. Amidst shared laughs and candid stories, they delve into pivotal leadership concepts for the modern age, examining both the challenges and transformative strategies essential for today's executives. Raj shares his personal journey from being legally blind to becoming a renowned consultant, igniting a passion for creating tangible societal impacts. 

In this episode of the Practitioner Scholar, hosted by Melissa Monti, Dr. Ann Schulte, a Penn CLO program alumna and current Senior Vice President of Talent Development and Chief Learning Officer at Procter & Gamble, discusses the integration of AI in talent development and the importance of an always Beta mindset for continuous workplace innovation. 

In this episode of 'Practitioner Scholar', host Lisa-Marie Aird dives into the realm of Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging (DEIB) with Maria Luisa Garcia Underwood, a seasoned leader in education and organizational development. Maria, who serves as the CEO of M. Ideas Consulting Services and is also a current CLO student at Penn, shares her journey into DEIB, inspired by her personal experiences as an Afro-Cuban immigrant. The discussion spans Maria's deep-rooted passion for DEIB, her strategies for making DEIB initiatives transformative, and the pitfalls of 'DEI washing'.Maria and Lisa-Marie examine the pressing need for sustained organizational change, leadership roles in fostering inclusivity, and practical steps towards implementing robust DEIB strategies. Furthermore, Maria provides advice for emerging leaders and reflects on how the Penn Chief Learning Officer program has shaped her approach to DEIB, concluding with her vision for a humanity-focused 'everyday' celebration of diversity and inclusion.

In this episode of the Practitioner Scholar, Penn Chief Learning Officer podcast, host Melissa Monti talks with Dr. Kandi Wiens, a senior fellow at the University of Pennsylvania and author of the new book, 'Burnout Immunity.' Dr. Wiens, a graduate of the Penn CLO program, shares her experiences juggling work, school, and family life, leading to a life-threatening wake-up call due to stress. Discussing her research on burnout, emotional intelligence, and organizational resilience, Wiens explores key strategies for combating stress. She also touches on her upcoming book, which offers a practical framework (ARMOR: Awareness, Regulation, Meaningful Connections, Outlook and Recover, Reconnect, and Reimagine) for building resilience and immunity to burnout. Dr. Wiens further discusses her experiences in the CLO program and how it transformed her career, encouraging potential students to balance their work schedules and trust faculty members. Highlighting the importance of defining one’s ‘having it all’ based on personal values, Dr. Wiens believes robust psychological wellbeing, physical health, and strong family relationships form the essence of her success. 

Dr. Keith Keating, Chief Learning and Talent Officer for BDO, shares insights on effective learning in the business sector, emphasizing the role of technology and the shift to a strategic approach. They discuss the talent gap issue and the value of lifelong learning. The conversation also explores Dr. Keating's work on redefining the perception of learning leaders in organizations through his book 'The Trusted Learning Advisor'.

Introducing "The Practitioner-Scholar: The PennCLO Podcast," where we blend academic know-how with real-world practicality. In this series we dive into the strategies and success stories shaping organizational learning and leadership. From dissecting practitioner-scholar approaches to featuring standout individuals from our student and alumni circles, we bring you insights that matter.Whether you're a curious learner, an emerging leader, or a seasoned executive, this is your hub for intellectual engagement and actionable insights. For more information, explore our master’s and doctoral degree programs on the Penn GSE website.