<![CDATA[Finding Your Inner Mister Rogers]]>Those who lead with kindness, compassion and empathy build the most successful teams. This podcast will explore this topic and you will get to meet incredible leaders from across the country who we all would love to work for, and with.

]]>https://riverside.comRiverside.fm (https://riverside.com)Sat, 18 Jul 2026 06:32:01 GMTMon, 16 Mar 2026 18:34:20 GMT60Todd Faber<p>Those who lead with kindness, compassion and empathy build the most successful teams. This podcast will explore this topic and you will get to meet incredible leaders from across the country who we all would love to work for, and with.</p>episodicTodd Fabertoddfaber@thefabergroup.comno<![CDATA[The Chief Helper: Tim Garvin, United Way]]>The most radical thing we can be right now? Kind. Here's why leads a community helper to truly connect.

Drop a đź’™ if you agree kindness is the secret to real leadership.

Fred Rogers taught us that leadership isn't about control-it's about service to others' dignity. Tim Garvin exemplifies this daily. As the CEO of United Way, he's not just managing statistics; he's mobilizing neighbors, building trust, and transforming complex problems into human-sized solutions.

Whether responding to a crisis or inspiring volunteers, he shows that when we unite resources and hearts, there's no stranger, only a neighbor we haven't helped yet. It's simple but powerful: kindness is a leadership superpower.

Think about it: are we leading with compassion enough? What small act could you do today to be the helper?

👉 Click the links in the comments below to listen to how Tim talks about the power of community

#FindingYourInnerMrRogers #95%rule #CommunityLeadership #LeadWithKindness #SocialImpact #UniteForGood

]]>e50f32ff-b797-4629-bd3a-0c5832faa790Tue, 14 Jul 2026 14:56:36 GMT<p>The most radical thing we can be right now? Kind. Here's why leads a community helper to truly connect.</p><p>Drop a 💙 if you agree kindness is the secret to real leadership.</p><p>Fred Rogers taught us that leadership isn't about control-it's about service to others' dignity. Tim Garvin exemplifies this daily. As the CEO of United Way, he's not just managing statistics; he's mobilizing neighbors, building trust, and transforming complex problems into human-sized solutions.</p><p>Whether responding to a crisis or inspiring volunteers, he shows that when we unite resources and hearts, there's no stranger, only a neighbor we haven't helped yet. It's simple but powerful: kindness is a leadership superpower.</p><p>Think about it: are we leading with compassion enough? What small act could you do today to be the helper?</p><p></p><p>👉 Click the links in the comments below to listen to how Tim talks about the power of community</p><p></p><p><b>#FindingYourInnerMrRogers</b> <b>#95%rule</b> <b>#CommunityLeadership</b> <b>#LeadWithKindness</b> <b>#SocialImpact</b> <b>#UniteForGood</b></p>no00:47:35The Chief Helper: Tim Garvin, United Wayfull<![CDATA[Dave Harmon: The Truth Teller]]>Ever wonder what honest, empathetic leadership really looks like? It’s simple: tell the truth, treat people like humans, and build trust. Drop a 🙌 if you believe kindness and honesty can change the workplace. In a world obsessed with policies, true leadership is about seeing people deeply, to recognize their struggles, celebrate their wins, and be transparent even through tough times. Dave Harmon shared stories from leading Fortune 500 teams where honesty forged loyalty and resilience.He reminds us: People aren’t numbers, they’re individuals with stories, struggles, and strengths. When leaders walk the floor, ask about hobbies, or send a note of thanks, they build a family, not just a workforce.Worth thinking about: How can you bring more honesty and kindness into your own leadership today?

#LeadershipWithHeart #RealPeopleRealStories #HumansFirst #AuthenticLeadership #MentalHealthMatters #findingyourinnermisterrogers

]]>ec1b65b3-d145-4c62-b3c3-8ebf0e88fc1bTue, 07 Jul 2026 09:45:00 GMT<p>Ever wonder what honest, empathetic leadership really looks like? It’s simple: tell the truth, treat people like humans, and build trust. Drop a 🙌 if you believe kindness and honesty can change the workplace. In a world obsessed with policies, true leadership is about seeing people deeply, to recognize their struggles, celebrate their wins, and be transparent even through tough times. Dave Harmon shared stories from leading Fortune 500 teams where honesty forged loyalty and resilience.He reminds us: People aren’t numbers, they’re individuals with stories, struggles, and strengths. When leaders walk the floor, ask about hobbies, or send a note of thanks, they build a family, not just a workforce.Worth thinking about: How can you bring more honesty and kindness into your own leadership today? </p><p>#LeadershipWithHeart #RealPeopleRealStories #HumansFirst #AuthenticLeadership #MentalHealthMatters #findingyourinnermisterrogers</p>no00:45:22Dave Harmon: The Truth Tellerfull<![CDATA[Colette Phillips: The Connector]]>Here’s the truth Fred Rogers would agree with — kindness is revolutionary in today’s world.

Drop a đź’™ if you believe a simple kind word can change a neighborhood.
We often think leadership is about control, but real influence is about service and inclusion. Colette Phillips from Get Konnected reminds us that everyone deserves a seat at the table. Her insight? Breaking bread and showing genuine interest dissolve barriers faster than any policy. When we acknowledge others’ humanity, we create trust and positive change.
What’s one small act of kindness you’ll do today?

]]>13062b41-a52a-4115-9671-e134d8c1eba9Wed, 24 Jun 2026 16:15:13 GMT<p>Here’s the truth Fred Rogers would agree with — kindness is revolutionary in today’s world.<br /><br />Drop a 💙 if you believe a simple kind word can change a neighborhood.<br />We often think leadership is about control, but real influence is about service and inclusion. Colette Phillips from Get Konnected reminds us that everyone deserves a seat at the table. Her insight? Breaking bread and showing genuine interest dissolve barriers faster than any policy. When we acknowledge others’ humanity, we create trust and positive change.<br />What’s one small act of kindness you’ll do today?</p>no01:00:34Colette Phillips: The Connectorfull<![CDATA[Shaheer Mustafa: The Guardian]]>In this episode of Finding Your Inner Mister Rogers, I chat with Shaheer Mustafa, the President and CEO of HopeWell, one of the most innovative social service agencies in New England.

Shaheer’s work is the modern-day embodiment of Fred Rogers’ fierce advocacy for the forgotten child. He isn't just managing a non-profit; he is completely redesigning a system to ensure that children in transition still have a "neighborhood" to call home. With a background in clinical social work and a deep commitment to social justice, Shaheer leads with a powerful belief: every child deserves a stable, loving environment in which to grow. He and his team are dedicated to transforming the lives of children and young adults in the foster care system by creating innovative, person-centered models of care.

Shaheer is a champion for the vulnerable and a leader who proves that systemic change always begins with a single, compassionate connection.

#findingyourinnermisterrogers #leadingwithkindness #leadingwithempathy #leadingwithcompassion

]]>e4d0ea6c-ab6a-48b9-9f5f-d80b171dbc1fWed, 17 Jun 2026 13:11:48 GMT<p>In this episode of Finding Your Inner Mister Rogers, I chat with Shaheer Mustafa, the President and CEO of HopeWell, one of the most innovative social service agencies in New England.</p><p></p><p>Shaheer’s work is the modern-day embodiment of Fred Rogers’ fierce advocacy for the forgotten child. He isn't just managing a non-profit; he is completely redesigning a system to ensure that children in transition still have a "neighborhood" to call home. With a background in clinical social work and a deep commitment to social justice, Shaheer leads with a powerful belief: every child deserves a stable, loving environment in which to grow. He and his team are dedicated to transforming the lives of children and young adults in the foster care system by creating innovative, person-centered models of care.</p><p></p><p>Shaheer is a champion for the vulnerable and a leader who proves that systemic change always begins with a single, compassionate connection.</p><p></p><p><b>#findingyourinnermisterrogers</b> <b>#leadingwithkindness</b> <b>#leadingwithempathy</b> <b>#leadingwithcompassion</b></p>no00:35:48Shaheer Mustafa: The Guardianfull<![CDATA[Carolyn Jones: The Community Publisher]]>In a world racing with noise, Carolyn Jones, the market president & publisher of the Boston Business Journal reminds us that true influence comes from integrity and community. As Boston’s town square publisher, she emphasizes that stories should build us up, not divide us, whether through local news, business awards, or community initiatives.

Her focus? Highlighting leaders who lead with kindness and helping others succeed...just like Fred Rogers did in his neighborhood.

]]>d6dda2bc-20dc-4f75-a0b6-00cdae07d3f2Wed, 10 Jun 2026 01:07:35 GMT<p>In a world racing with noise, <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.linkedin.com/feed/#" target="_blank"><b>Carolyn Jones</b></a>, the market president &amp; publisher of the Boston Business Journal reminds us that true influence comes from integrity and community. As Boston’s town square publisher, she emphasizes that stories should build us up, not divide us, whether through local news, business awards, or community initiatives.</p><p></p><p>Her focus? Highlighting leaders who lead with kindness and helping others succeed...just like Fred Rogers did in his neighborhood.</p>no00:31:05Carolyn Jones: The Community Publisherfull<![CDATA[Jurgen Wiehn, the Architect of Capacity]]>In this insightful interview, Jurgen Wien shares how leaders can harness the power of self-regulation, groundedness, and emotional awareness to improve decision-making, foster safety, and lead with kindness. Drawing from his experience in life sciences and insights from Fred Rogers, this conversation explores practical techniques for managing stress and creating resilient leadership environments.

leadership, self-regulation, stress management, emotional intelligence, Fred Rogers, organizational culture, resilience, mindfulness, nervous system, high-stakes decision making.

Fred Rogers' Philosophy - https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fred_Rogers

The Capacity Movement - https://www.capacitymovement.com/

Emotional and Physiological Integration Techniques - https://www.mindful.org/what-is-emotional-regulation/

Breathing Exercises for Stress Relief - https://www.headspace.com/meditation/breathing-exercises

guest links

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

]]>06884a6d-f400-47bd-bcbf-ac1135a627f7Wed, 03 Jun 2026 13:40:22 GMT<p>In this insightful interview, Jurgen Wien shares how leaders can harness the power of self-regulation, groundedness, and emotional awareness to improve decision-making, foster safety, and lead with kindness. Drawing from his experience in life sciences and insights from Fred Rogers, this conversation explores practical techniques for managing stress and creating resilient leadership environments.</p><p>leadership, self-regulation, stress management, emotional intelligence, Fred Rogers, organizational culture, resilience, mindfulness, nervous system, high-stakes decision making.</p><p></p><p>Fred Rogers' Philosophy - <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fred_Rogers" target="_blank">https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fred_Rogers</a></p><p>The Capacity Movement - <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.capacitymovement.com/" target="_blank">https://www.capacitymovement.com/</a></p><p>Emotional and Physiological Integration Techniques - <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.mindful.org/what-is-emotional-regulation/" target="_blank">https://www.mindful.org/what-is-emotional-regulation/</a></p><p>Breathing Exercises for Stress Relief - <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.headspace.com/meditation/breathing-exercises" target="_blank">https://www.headspace.com/meditation/breathing-exercises</a></p><p>guest links</p><p>LinkedIn - <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/jurgenwien/" target="_blank">https://www.linkedin.com/in/jurgenwien/</a></p><p></p><p></p>no00:37:43Jurgen Wiehn, the Architect of Capacityfull<![CDATA[Pardeep Kaleka: The Peacemaker]]>In this episode, I sit down with Pardeep S. Kaleka MS, LPC to explore how acts of kindness, forgiveness, and community engagement can transform lives after tragedy. Pardeep shares his inspiring story of healing following the 2012 Oak Creek Sikh temple shooting, emphasizing the importance of expansive compassion and the role of faith in overcoming hate.The conversation explores the transformative power of kindness and compassion, the practice of forgiveness as a form of empowerment, and the inheritance of a spirit of service. It delves into the themes of leadership in moments of tragedy, unity in diversity, and the impact of forgiveness on personal growth and community healing. The conversation delves into themes of legacy, courage, and service, emphasizing the importance of creating a better world for future generations. It explores the concepts of healing, divine responsibility, and the impact of heartbreak on personal insight. The role of each individual in creating positive change is highlighted, along with the power of curiosity and active listening in fostering connection and understanding.

Takeaways

  • Kindness as radical leadership
  • Forgiveness as a practice of empowerment Curiosity fosters connection
  • Acknowledging judgment is a step towards reducing it

Chapters

  • 00:00 The Power of Kindness and Compassion
  • 07:19 Unity in Diversity
  • 12:30 The Practice of Forgiveness
  • 19:13 Empowerment Through Forgiveness
  • 24:20 Inheriting the Spirit of Service
  • 30:21 Divine Responsibility and Caretaking
  • 37:32 The Power of Curiosity and Listening
]]>f24c9b95-6aaf-4f3c-9b0d-c9e519767a45Wed, 27 May 2026 18:26:56 GMT<p>In this episode, I sit down with <a rel="noopener noreferrer nofollow" href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/toddfaber/#" target="_blank"><b>Pardeep S. Kaleka MS, LPC</b></a> to explore how acts of kindness, forgiveness, and community engagement can transform lives after tragedy. Pardeep shares his inspiring story of healing following the 2012 Oak Creek Sikh temple shooting, emphasizing the importance of expansive compassion and the role of faith in overcoming hate.The conversation explores the transformative power of kindness and compassion, the practice of forgiveness as a form of empowerment, and the inheritance of a spirit of service. It delves into the themes of leadership in moments of tragedy, unity in diversity, and the impact of forgiveness on personal growth and community healing. The conversation delves into themes of legacy, courage, and service, emphasizing the importance of creating a better world for future generations. It explores the concepts of healing, divine responsibility, and the impact of heartbreak on personal insight. The role of each individual in creating positive change is highlighted, along with the power of curiosity and active listening in fostering connection and understanding.</p><p></p><p>Takeaways</p><ul><li>Kindness as radical leadership</li><li>Forgiveness as a practice of empowerment Curiosity fosters connection</li><li>Acknowledging judgment is a step towards reducing it</li></ul><p></p><p>Chapters</p><ul><li>00:00 The Power of Kindness and Compassion</li><li>07:19 Unity in Diversity</li><li>12:30 The Practice of Forgiveness</li><li>19:13 Empowerment Through Forgiveness</li><li>24:20 Inheriting the Spirit of Service</li><li>30:21 Divine Responsibility and Caretaking</li><li>37:32 The Power of Curiosity and Listening</li></ul>no00:48:00Pardeep Kaleka: The Peacemakerfull<![CDATA[Leading with Heart: Insights from Brigadier General Jack Hammond]]>Leading with Heart: Insights from Brigadier General Jack Hammond on Compassionate Leadership and Healing Invisible Wounds

In this episode, Todd Faber explores the power of empathy, vulnerability, and compassionate leadership with retired Brigadier General Jack Hammond. Jack shares his journey from battlefield leadership to healing veterans’ invisible wounds, highlighting how kindness and emotional honesty can transform organizations and lives.

]]>6dbbc4bf-42c8-4491-9b96-19221ae34601Tue, 19 May 2026 13:45:00 GMT<h5><b>Leading with Heart: Insights from Brigadier General Jack Hammond on Compassionate Leadership and Healing Invisible Wounds</b></h5><p>In this episode, Todd Faber explores the power of empathy, vulnerability, and compassionate leadership with retired Brigadier General Jack Hammond. Jack shares his journey from battlefield leadership to healing veterans’ invisible wounds, highlighting how kindness and emotional honesty can transform organizations and lives.</p>no00:41:29Leading with Heart: Insights from Brigadier General Jack Hammondfull<![CDATA[The Nursing Heart in the CEO Chair]]>When I launched this podcast, I knew Chris Schuster would be the perfect guest. She truly epitomizes Fred Rogers’ profound wisdom on caregiving, empathy, and the vital role of "helpers."Fred’s message emphasized emotional safety, deep listening, and treating every person as a human being rather than just a case. He viewed healthcare professionals as essential helpers in the "neighborhood of life," and Chris’s career is a masterclass in that philosophy, illustrated by her transition from the bedside to the CEO’s office without ever losing sight of that mission.I hope you enjoy our conversation and see how leading with compassion and empathy creates an environment where teams achieve exceptional results.

]]>1cfc4dbc-5e80-48ba-8463-834d612e8895Mon, 11 May 2026 18:49:52 GMT<p>When I launched this podcast, I knew Chris Schuster would be the perfect guest. She truly epitomizes Fred Rogers’ profound wisdom on caregiving, empathy, and the vital role of "helpers."Fred’s message emphasized emotional safety, deep listening, and treating every person as a human being rather than just a case. He viewed healthcare professionals as essential helpers in the "neighborhood of life," and Chris’s career is a masterclass in that philosophy, illustrated by her transition from the bedside to the CEO’s office without ever losing sight of that mission.I hope you enjoy our conversation and see how leading with compassion and empathy creates an environment where teams achieve exceptional results.</p>no00:41:44The Nursing Heart in the CEO Chairfull