Leadership Is Changing

778: Leadership is Changing Mash Up 2025 (ft. Chad Hufford and Sondra Sutton Phung)

Leadership Is Changing

Show Notes

Some leaders guide with numbers, others with innovation, but both reveal that leadership is about purpose, adaptability, and influence. In this mashup, Denis Gianoutsos brings together Chad Hufford, a financial planner and performance coach from Alaska, and Sondra Sutton Phung, Marketing General Manager for Electric Vehicles at Ford. Though from very different industries, both share a mission of leading change with intention: Chad through purpose-driven financial stewardship that transforms lives, and Sondra through driving the global shift to EVs while sharing leadership lessons from her 25-year international career.

This is about the leadership we need for the world we’re stepping into.

Catch the full episode to explore why leadership starts with purpose, how to balance knowledge with execution, and why influence beats authority in shaping the future.

EP 596 - Chad Hufford: Stewardship, Purpose, and the Human Side of Finance From biochemistry to financial planning: a journey shaped by intention The 2008 financial crisis as a leadership crucible “Job-optional lifestyle”: reframing retirement as freedom and purpose Why leadership in finance is about guidance, hope, and vision, not just numbers

EP 395 - Sondra Sutton Phung: Driving the Future of Leadership and EVs A 25-year global career at Ford across Japan, China, Thailand, and the U.S. From skeptic to believer: why EVs represent both innovation and sustainability Mentorship and advocacy as accelerators of non-traditional career paths Building systems and insights across Asia-Pacific to shape customer engagement

Key Quotes:

“You do not get to choose whether you’re a leader or not, you only get to choose if you’re an effective one.” - Chad Hufford

“Mentors and advocates are the bridge that helps you cross into the next level of leadership.” - Sondra Sutton Phung

“Whatever is going on for you, you’ll have a lot more confidence because you do have that knowledge, that intent and purpose, and what you’re focusing on.” - Denis Gianoutsos

The 10 Proven Ways to Lead and Thrive in Today's World - FREE Executive Guide Download https://crm.leadingchangepartners.com/10-ways-to-lead

Connect with Denis: Email: [email protected] Website: www.LeadingChangePartners.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/denisgianoutsos LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/denisgianoutsos/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/leadershipischanging/ YouTube Channel: https://www.youtube.com/@DenisGianoutsos

More from Leadership Is Changing

Oct 31, 2025

When was the last time you truly listened to your own voice, not just the sound, but what it stands for? In this heartfelt Ask Denis episode, Denis shares his personal journey of losing and reclaiming his voice, both physically and as a leader. Through reflection and resilience, he reveals how leaders can rise above the noise by speaking with clarity, conviction, and purpose. This message reminds us that your voice is more than communication, it is influence, integrity, and impact. When aligned with your values, it becomes a tool for change that others cannot help but listen to. Rediscovering the Voice Within Denis reflects on his personal journey of losing his voice and finding it again after adversity. How adversity shaped his appreciation for speaking and leadership. A reminder that what once felt broken can return stronger than ever.

Oct 29, 2025

The pace of change has never been faster, and leadership has never required more courage, empathy, and adaptability. In this special mashup, two distinct voices share how leaders can evolve to meet the moment. Denise Reed Lamoreaux reveals why inclusion is more than representation; it is the heartbeat of every thriving organization. Russ Perry invites us to embrace transformation as the leader’s greatest advantage, showing that the future belongs to those who learn, unlearn, and grow. These conversations remind us that in a rapidly shifting world, leadership is not about control; it is about connection, curiosity, and the willingness to change first. EP 20 – Denise Reed Lamoreaux: Leading Through Inclusion and Belonging Why diversity alone is not enough and how inclusion creates a culture where everyone thrives. The power of transparency and open communication in times of rapid change. How recognition and appreciation fuel engagement and loyalty. The leadership shifted from diversity checklists to belonging-driven cultures.

Oct 27, 2025

In a world that is evolving faster than ever, leadership is not just about keeping up; it is about staying grounded in what truly matters. In this mashup episode, two thought-provoking leaders share their take on what leadership looks like in times of disruption and rapid change. Nik Cree challenges us to think critically, question the status quo, and create space for open dialogue in business and society. Kevin Bonfield explores why the core principles of leadership remain timeless, even as the pace of change accelerates, and how authenticity, accountability, and vision are more vital than ever. Together, they remind us that leadership is not about being infallible. It is about being human, curious, and courageous enough to lead with conviction. EP 10 – Nik Cree: Leading Through Dialogue and Discovery Why great leadership starts with engaged discussion, not blind agreement How open dialogue drives innovation, ownership, and learning Why allowing mistakes leads to creativity and growth How leaders can foster a culture where people think and speak for themselves

Oct 24, 2025

The pace of change today is faster than ever. Disruption, technology, and transformation are constant, and leaders everywhere are being challenged to keep up. The truth? The ones who thrive are not those who hold on to the old ways, but those who adapt, connect, and evolve. In this episode, Denis shares the three essentials every leader needs to focus on right now to not just survive change, but to lead it. Drawing from his work with executives and teams around the globe, he breaks down how adaptability, human connection, and smart use of technology are shaping the next generation of leadership. Whether you are navigating uncertainty, leading through transformation, or simply wanting to future-proof your leadership, this episode will help you stay relevant and lead with purpose in a world that never stops changing. Tune in to learn how to stay adaptable, lead with heart, and embrace technology without losing the human touch. Adaptability and Continuous Learning Why adaptability has become the defining trait of modern leadership How curiosity and a hunger to learn keep you ahead of change The ripple effect of learning on personal growth and organizational success

Oct 22, 2025

The world of leadership continues to evolve and the question for every leader is: are you evolving with it? In this special mashup episode, two voices bring unique perspectives on the inner and outer work of leadership transformation. Dr. Alex Vincent unpacks why culture isn’t just strategy’s sidekick; it’s the heartbeat of every thriving organization. Then, Liam Naden shares how understanding and rebalancing your brain can free you from fear and help you lead with clarity, calm, and confidence. From redefining what a healthy culture looks like to unlocking your mind’s potential for authentic success, these conversations will challenge you to look inward, evolve deliberately, and lead differently in 2025 and beyond. Every meaningful shift begins with awareness and this episode shows you exactly where to start. EP 548 – Dr. Alex Vincent: Culture Eats Strategy Alive Why a strong culture outperforms even the best business strategy How to take a cold, hard look at your organizational culture Balancing innovation with emotional intelligence and psychological safety The power of creating “psychological security” to uphold safety and trust Why culture must evolve as your environment and people do

See all episodes →