Welcome to Play for Performance. Today, we engage with Kate Byrne—founder of Kate Byrne, CEO, and host of the Women Advancing podcast. With leadership roles at SoCap Global and Fast Company, Kate has been pivotal in promoting intentional leadership and advancing women's roles across various sectors.
In our conversation, Kate discusses her new position at the Karsh Institute for Democracy, where she will facilitate civil discourse among a diverse group of students. We explore strategies for building collaborative teams and the importance of maintaining humanity in today’s fast-paced environment.
Kate recounts her transition from corporate roles to founding her own ventures, sharing insights gained from overcoming challenges. She emphasizes the role of play in both professional and personal settings, highlighting how humor and curiosity enhance her leadership approach. Additionally, Kate offers practical advice on work-life balance and staying grounded, illustrating why events often unfold for us rather than to us.
For those seeking practical strategies to enhance workplace culture and incorporate intentionality into daily practices, this episode provides valuable perspectives. Discover how integrating simple elements like LEGO bricks can foster creativity, improve team dynamics, and help you find your flow.
Chapters:00:00 - Introduction
00:10 - Introducing Kate Byrne: Advocate & Leader
04:54 - Kate Byrne's Career Shift and Impact
07:43 - "Intentional Leadership and Impact Investing"
11:05 - Expanding Women's Initiatives Globally
14:20 - Embrace Change for Self-Improvement
19:42 - "Daily Meditation Practices Explained"
22:04 - Misunderstood Lightheartedness
27:32 - Regrets of Lost Playtime
30:15 - Outro
Quotes:“Embrace the mindset that things happen for you, not to you. It opens your perspective and reveals unexpected opportunities.”- Kate Byrne
“Changing workplace culture takes time, but every small step toward play and connection matters.”- Jolynn Ledgerwood
Key Takeaways:Intentional Leadership and Civil Discourse
Growth Happens at the Edge of Comfort
Businesses Are Living Organisms
Work-Life Harmony: Forget “Balance”
Play Is Powerful—At Work and at Home
When in Doubt, Just Ask
Reframe the Unexpected: “For You, Not To You”
Connect with Kate Byrne:Website:
https://katherinebyrne.com or
https://katebyrne.coLinkedIn:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/katebyrne/Call To Action:Book Kate for speaking or workshops and listen to her podcast:
https://katherinebyrne.com/podcast/Connect with the Host:Linkedin:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/jolynnledgerwood/Website:
https://elevateyourtalent.co/