362 - Building Connections in a Virtual World: The Importance of Empathy in Remote Work

362 - Building Connections in a Virtual World: The Importance of Empathy in Remote Work

Doug Noll
Published on: 03/03/2026

In this episode of "Listening with Leaders," host Doug Noll interviews Ben Gaddis, Partner and Co-founder of Superstep Capital, and author of Embracing Irrationality. They discuss Ben’s journey from marketing to private equity, investing in SaaS companies, and the impact of AI on software. The conversation explores leadership assessment, effective board meetings, and the vital role of empathy in business.

LeadershipEntrepreneurshipSoftware DevelopmentArtificial Intelligence and Technology
361 - Embracing Technology Without Losing the Human Touch in Leadership

361 - Embracing Technology Without Losing the Human Touch in Leadership

Doug Noll
Published on: 24/02/2026

In this episode of "Listening with Leaders," host Doug Noll and guest Chip Higgins, Founder of Bizzics, discuss how leadership and communication are evolving in the age of digital technology, remote work, and AI. They explore the challenges and opportunities of building genuine connections without physical presence, the impact of generational differences, and the role of listening in effective leadership.

LeadershipEntrepreneurshipBusiness Growth and Strategies
360 - From Code to Connection: Transforming Engineers into Emotionally Intelligent Leaders

360 - From Code to Connection: Transforming Engineers into Emotionally Intelligent Leaders

Doug Noll
Published on: 16/02/2026

In this episode of "Listening with Leaders," host Doug Noll interviews Vidar Hokstad, Founder and Consultant at Hokstad Consulting, about his journey from early computer fascination to leading startups and venture-backed companies. The conversation explores lessons learned from product failures, the importance of emotional intelligence in engineering teams, and the challenges of adopting AI. An unidentified third speaker adds thoughtful questions.

LeadershipEntrepreneurshipBusiness Growth and StrategiesPersonal Growth
359 - Untangling the Communication Knot: Mastering Emotions in Leadership

359 - Untangling the Communication Knot: Mastering Emotions in Leadership

Doug Noll
Published on: 10/02/2026

In this episode of Listening with Leaders, host Doug Noll and guest Maria Garaitonandia, Founder of Global Bridges Training, explore the complexities of communication in leadership and cross-cultural settings. Maria shares how her international upbringing shaped her passion for “untangling” communication challenges, emphasizing the importance of emotional intelligence and empathy. The discussion covers generational and cultural differences, the impact of technology, and practical frameworks for improving dialogue.

LeadershipEntrepreneurshipBusiness Growth and StrategiesPersonal Growth