In this episode, we dive into fear-based leadership — a management style built on intimidation, pressure, and the constant threat of consequences. Over the past few years, this approach has been on the rise. Economic uncertainty, rapid technological change, and a culture of constant performance metrics have left many leaders leaning into fear as a way to maintain control. While it can create short-term compliance, the long-term cost is steep: it stifles innovation, erodes trust, and takes a serious toll on employee well-being.

We also look at why leaders resort to fear, the damage it causes to teams and culture, and what healthier alternatives look like. Together, we uncover how to spot fear-driven tactics and, more importantly, how to replace them with strategies that inspire confidence, resilience, and collaboration.

About the Guest

Kate Lowry is the author of, Unbreakable: How to Thrive Under Fear-Based Leaders, a guide to navigating and succeeding under challenging leadership. She is a CEO coach, venture capitalist, and author based in Silicon Valley.

An expert in fear-based leaders, Kate developed her methodology through her experiences growing up in a hierarchical family and later honed it in the high-pressure environments of start-ups, private equity, management consulting, and big tech, including McKinsey, Meta, and Insight Partners.

With a unique blend of personal insight and professional expertise, she helps executives thrive in even the most demanding situations. In her free time, Kate enjoys writing comedy and music and spending time with her beloved service dog, Annie. Learn more at katelowry.com.

Guest social media

- Website: https://www.katelowry.com/

https://www.scaleheart.co/

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katherinejlowry/

- Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0FR1G981Y/ref=sr_1_2

https://www.amazon.com/Unbreakable-Thrive-Under-Fear-Based-Leaders-ebook/dp/B0FQ71FW72/ref=sr_1_1

Host social media

- Website: www.siinda.org

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberli-lewis-7a34053/?ppe=1

https://www.linkedin.com/company/search-and-information-industry-association/?viewAsMember=true

- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/followsiinda/

What does inclusion really mean beyond policies and buzzwords?

This podcast explores inclusion as a human experience and a leadership imperative—how people feel seen, valued, and able to contribute. Through real conversations on bias, belonging, and leadership, we look at what inclusion truly looks like in everyday moments.

Because inclusion isn't just about who's in the room—it's about how people experience being there.

About the Guest

Dr. Riza Kadilar was the President of EMCC Global between 2017 and 2024, and she is the author of The Contemporary Leader: The Value of Inclusion in Successful Leadership, published by Wiley in December 2024. The book explores how inclusive leadership drives success in today's complex organizations and is available through major retailers like Amazon and Wiley.

With over 30 years of senior banking leadership experience across France, the UK, the Netherlands, and Turkey, Dr. Kadilar has built a career focused on human capital and business growth. He also founded RK Academy to expand access to high-quality learning.

A visiting professor, international keynote speaker, and author of seven leadership books, Dr. Kadilar is widely recognized for his contributions to leadership and professional development.

Guest social media

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/1BjJSKBsxZ/?mibextid=wwXIfr

https://www.facebook.com/share/19e3XT75g4/?mibextid=wwXIfr

• LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/rizakadilar

Host social media

-Website: www.siinda.org

- LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kimberli-lewis-7a34053/?ppe=1

https://www.linkedin.com/company/search-and-information-industry-association/?viewAsMember=true

- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/followsiinda/