Better Understanding with Susan MacKenty Brady

Too often, men want to support women in the workplace—but don’t know how. In this episode, Brad Johnson and David Smith break down the myths, fears, and missed opportunities that hold men back from being effective allies. They share data-driven insights and real stories about what women say makes the difference, and how mentorship and sponsorship can open doors that change careers—and cultures. 3 Takeaways You’ll Learn: * Why allyship isn’t just good for women—it makes organizations stronger. * How to move past fear and hesitation to take meaningful action. * Simple, powerful practices of listening, humility, and courage that all leaders can adopt. This conversation is a call to action for leaders everywhere: to listen with humility, lead with courage, and actively create workplaces where women can thrive.

As the 19th Chief Master Sergeant of the U.S. Air Force, JoAnne Bass made history as the first woman and the first person of Asian American descent to serve as the highest-ranking noncommissioned officer in any U.S. military branch. In this powerful conversation, she shares the lessons that helped her rise to the top — from embracing every season as preparation for the next, to leading with humility and character, to building teams that thrive on trust and accountability. You’ll walk away inspired to: * Lead from your best self by aligning strengths with purpose * Invest in mentorship and strategic relationships that expand your impact * Recognize the power of mindset in navigating change and career transitions * Remember that true legacy is about how you make people feel Whether you’re charting your next leadership move or simply looking for the motivation to keep going, JoAnne’s story offers both wisdom and encouragement for every modern leader.

In this candid conversation, Susan MacKenty Brady sits down with Mark Servodidio—CEO, cofounder of PGP Solutions, and former global CHRO and Fortune 300 President—to explore how real transformation happens when leaders double down on people. From building community through teams to creating cultures of trust and accountability, Mark shares powerful lessons from his leadership journey—where humility meets high performance and purpose drives results.

What does it really take to lead with impact in a world full of change? In this episode, Tamla Oates-Forney—change-maker, people-centered executive, and advocate for inclusive leadership—joins Susan MacKenty Brady for a candid conversation about leading from your Best Self, even in uncertain times. Tamla shares how a personal health scare transformed her outlook, deepening her commitment to joy, purpose, and people. She opens up about how leaders can rediscover themselves, show up more authentically, and build workplaces rooted in empathy, trust, and belonging.

In this episode of the Better Understanding podcast, change maker Lori Spicer Robertson invites us to live in our vision, not our circumstances. She shares how returning to your Best Self—especially during times of uncertainty—is a daily practice rooted in calmness, curiosity, and joy.  From redefining emotional expression in leadership to building intentional work tribes and setting personal boundaries, Lori offers practical wisdom on how to lead with authenticity, create inclusive environments, and source joy even in the toughest moments.