The Practitioner-Scholar: The PennCLO Podcast

In this episode of the Practitioner Scholar, host Julio Zelaya sits down with Dr. Janet Duliga, a distinguished executive and alumna of the Penn CLO Executive Program. Dr. Duliga, currently the Chief Corporate Officer at Prada Group, shares her extensive journey through law, psychology, and human resources, emphasizing her passion for organizational learning and leadership. They delve into Dr. Duliga's groundbreaking research on workplace fun, revealing that while management-sponsored events are positively valued for fostering social connections, they have limited lasting impacts on daily work life. The conversation highlights the importance of inclusive and frequent fun activities in enhancing workplace culture. Dr. Duliga also advises leaders on effectively organizing such events and balancing professional and personal life. The discussion underscores the dynamic nature of employees' lives and the significance of understanding their needs and motivating them through meaningful connections. This insightful episode encapsulates the essence of following one’s curiosity, leading with positivity, and the transformational impact of the Penn CLO program on professional and personal growth.

In this episode of the Practitioner Scholar podcast, hosted by Lisa-Marie Aird, Dr. Mark Kaestner, an alum of the Penn Chief Learning Officer program and VP at Ball Corporation, shares his insights on authentic leadership. He discusses his journey through the Penn CLO program, the essence of leadership authenticity, and strategies for building trust with teams.  Dr. Kaestner highlights key elements such as open communication, consistency, active listening, and empathy as foundational for authentic leadership. He also delves into his dissertation on the correlation between leadership authenticity and employee engagement, concluding with a personal reflection on the nature of leadership as a continuous journey.

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.