Best Kevin Sparrow Podcasts (2025)

1
Culture Codes with Christian Mendoza of Nizhoni Music 1:41:06

6h ago1:41:06

1:41:06

Christian Mendoza of Nizhoni Music talks to Julian from the wilds of New Zealand and shares about his life's journey, his creative process and his new work which he is called 'Culture Codes' Find Christian at: https://www.instagram.com/nizhoni.music/ https://open.spotify.com/artist/0zfGz5kMT2Y4ZJF1NSUHOD?si=DYNS7_wWTPSJ7ygoC_lfOQ https://soundcloud…

1
How to Lead People Not Like You with Stephanie Chung 33:30

3h ago33:30

33:30

How do you effectively lead a team filled with individuals who are different from you? Kevin is joined by Stephanie Chung to discuss what it truly takes to lead with intention in today's diverse workforce. Stephanie’s unique leadership model is represented by the acronym ALLY—Ask, Listen, Learn, and You take action. This framework emphasizes the im…

1
Playing the Long Game: Why Great Leaders Think Long-Term - Thoughts from Kevin 5:34

9h ago5:34

5:34

Are you willing to play the long game? In this episode of Remarkable TV and The Remarkable Leadership Podcast, Kevin Eikenberry explores why playing the long game is one of the most powerful habits leaders can develop—especially in a world dominated by instant gratification. He shares a compelling story and challenges us to lead with purpose, patie…

1
Episode #157 - Mitch Gropman, Moderator of /r/ChicagoFood on Reddit 1:18:56

1h ago1:18:56

1:18:56

The Chicago food subreddit has quietly become one of the internet’s most reliable sources for up-to-the-minute restaurant intel, thoughtful recommendations, and lively conversation celebrating the city’s singular hospitality culture. This week’s guest, Mitch Gropman — better known by his Reddit handle TriedForMitchcraft — has played a key role in s…

1
250. Disrupting the Future with AI - Kevin Surace 29:08

7h ago29:08

29:08

In episode 250 of IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, we sit down with Kevin Surace - a Silicon Valley trailblazer, AI visionary, and dynamic speaker who holds 93 patents and has reshaped industries from construction to tech. From pioneering the first AI virtual assistant to leading energy retrofits on the Empire State Building, Kevin brings a rare blend of tec…

1
The Psychology of Leadership with Sébastien Page 33:47

2d ago33:47

33:47

How can lessons from sports and psychology transform the way we lead, especially when the pressure is on? Kevin is joined by Sebastien Page to explore how high-performance mindsets from sports apply to leadership. They discuss how goal-induced blindness, where an intense focus on achieving goals can obscure ethical or practical considerations, impa…

1
Getting Past Blame - Thoughts from Kevin 5:17

4d ago5:17

5:17

Blame is easy—but it's also a barrier to your growth, your relationships, and your results. In this episode of Remarkable TV, Kevin Eikenberry shares a powerful mindset shift that can help you move from blame to ownership. You’ll learn: - Why blaming others holds you back as a leader - How language and perspective fuel blame - The ONE question you …

1
Episode #156 - Tigist Reda of Demera 1:19:41

4d ago1:19:41

1:19:41

When this week’s guest moved to Chicago from Ethiopia in 1997, she brought with her the deep culinary traditions of her homeland and a vision for sharing them with her new community. Now, Chef Tigist Reda is the acclaimed chef and owner of Demera Ethiopian Restaurant—featured in the Michelin Guide and soon expanding from its Uptown flagship to a ne…

1
249. How to Become a Published Author - Everett O’Keefe 30:32

4d ago30:32

30:32

In the episode 249 of IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, I’m joined by Everett O’Keefe, a Wall Street Journal, USA Today, and international #1 bestselling author and the founder of Ignite Press. With more than 200 bestselling book launches behind him, Everett is a leading voice in hybrid publishing - helping entrepreneurs and professionals turn their ideas int…

1
Creating Meaningful Work with Wes Adams and Tamara Myles 37:03

10d ago37:03

37:03

What makes work meaningful, and how can leaders create that experience for their teams? Kevin is joined by Wes Adams and Tamara Myles, who state that their research shows nearly 50% of an employee's experience of meaning at work is tied to what their leaders do or fail to do. Meaningful work is the upstream factor that drives engagement, productivi…

1
How Many Meetings Are Too Many? - Thoughts from Kevin 5:51

11d ago5:51

5:51

Are you drowning in meetings? In this episode of Remarkable TV, Kevin Eikenberry explores a common leadership challenge: How many meetings are too many? The answer may not be a number—but a shift in mindset, purpose, and effectiveness. Discover: ✅ How to clarify your desired meeting outcome ✅ How to decide whether a meeting is truly necessary ✅ How…

1
Episode #155 - Carlos Gaytán of Tzuco 1:08:10

11d ago1:08:10

1:08:10

This week, we sidle up to the only chef on the planet to earn Michelin stars in more than one country: Carlos Gaytán. A trailblazer and culinary virtuoso, Gaytán is known for his bold, genre-defying approach that fuses French technique with the bright flavors of his native Mexico. His cooking is elevated yet playful, rooted in tradition but always …

1
248. The Art of Conscious Conversations - Chuck Wisner 30:02

12d ago30:02

30:02

In the episode 248 of IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, I sit down with Chuck Wisner, renowned leadership advisor, communication expert, and author of The Art of Conscious Conversations. With decades of experience coaching Fortune 200 leaders, teaching mediation at Harvard Law School, and studying organizational learning at MIT, Chuck brings a rare depth of i…

1
Fearless Authenticity with Jeanne Sparrow 37:32

17d ago37:32

37:32

How can you be authentic in a way that strengthens your leadership and personal success? Kevin sits down with Jeanne Sparrow to chat about what authenticity truly means, why it matters for leaders, and how you can live it out with courage and confidence. Jeanne explains that being authentic isn't simply about being yourself; it's about knowing your…

1
What Do You Celebrate? - Thoughts from Kevin 4:50

21d ago4:50

4:50

We’re great at celebrating birthdays and personal milestones—but are we celebrating enough at work? In this episode, I explore why workplace celebrations matter and how we can make them more intentional and meaningful. I share questions you can ask yourself and your team to determine what’s worth celebrating and how to do it in a way that reinforce…

1
Episode #154 - Marcos Ascencio of Taqueria Chingón and Mariscos San Pedro 1:28:28

18d ago1:28:28

1:28:28

This week, we welcome Chef Marcos Ascencio, the man behind Taqueria Chingón and Mariscos San Pedro. Taqueria Chingón is a Mexico City-style taqueria known for its bold Al Pastor and playful takes on classic tacos. From his early days at NoMi under Chef Sandro Gamba to mentoring young chefs in Chicago Public Schools, Ascencio has carved out a path t…

1
247. Why the Future of Business Is Deeply Human - Kelly Hall 28:55

20d ago28:55

28:55

In this thought-provoking episode of IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, I’m joined by Kelly Winegarden Hall, a powerhouse leadership consultant with over 30 years of experience leading global teams and transforming organizational cultures. As the founder of Live L.A.R.G.E. LLC, Kelly is on a mission to help leaders shift their companies from survival mode to t…

1
Win the Inside Game with Steve Magness 35:52

24d ago35:52

35:52

Are you thriving or just surviving? Steve Magness joins Kevin to discuss how many of us operate in psychological survival mode far more often than we realize, treating everyday workplace challenges as threats rather than growth opportunities. They explore the psychological traps of modern stress responses, protective systems, and the impact of flat…

1
What Leaders Can Learn from Trees 5:00

25d ago5:00

5:00

What can a tree teach you about being a better leader? More than you might think. In this episode of Remarkable TV, Kevin Eikenberry draws powerful lessons from the natural world—specifically trees—to help you become a more stable, adaptable, and effective leader. Learn how to stay rooted in your values while remaining flexible in your approach to …

1
Episode #153 - Dylan Trotter of Charlie Trotter's 1:47:44

25d ago1:47:44

1:47:44

This week we’re excited to have Dylan Trotter in the studio. He’s the son of the legendary Charlie Trotter, and he’s now honoring that lineage with a series of pop-up dinners leading up to the much-anticipated reopening of Trotter’s. But Dylan is also a hospitality force in his own right. Having interned at the famed El Bulli and worked at BOA Stea…

1
246. Winning the Talent War - Cary Sparrow 29:04

27d ago29:04

29:04

In the episode 246 of IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, I’m joined by Cary Sparrow, a former U.S. Navy submarine officer turned tech entrepreneur, and the CEO of WageScape - a company that’s revolutionizing how businesses understand the labor market and compete for top talent. We explore Cary’s unique journey from commanding nuclear submarines to building one…

1
Become the Manager You Want to Be with Sabina Nawaz 34:27

1M ago34:27

34:27

What if your well-intentioned leadership style is holding your team back? Kevin sits down with Sabina Nawaz to discuss the illusion of "bad bosses," the myth of singular authenticity, and the impact of pressure on leadership behaviors. Sabina introduces the idea that it’s pressure, not power, that corrupts and outlines the three primary pressure pi…

1
How Patient Are You With Yourself? - Thoughts from Kevin 7:02

1M ago7:02

7:02

How patient are you with yourself? In this episode of Remarkable TV and the Remarkable Leadership Podcast, I’m challenging you to reflect on an important leadership skill: giving yourself the same patience and grace you extend to others. We’ll explore: - What your self-talk says when things don’t go as planned - How to zoom out and gain perspective…

1
Episode #152 - Gregg Horan of The Greggory 1:07:30

1M ago1:07:30

1:07:30

Gregg Horan is the founder — and namesake — behind The Greggory, and owner and managing partner of Hearth Hospitality. A sharp, good-humored force in Chicago’s dining scene, Horan’s journey took him from wild shifts at Cubby Bear in Wrigleyville to the polished halls of Gibson’s, where he helped the restaurant evolve into one of the world’s premier…

1
245. Leading Change Bigger Than Yourself - Evan Mawarire 29:47

1M ago29:47

29:47

In this powerful episode, I’m joined by Evan Mawarire, Zimbabwean pastor, global human rights advocate, and fearless founder of the #ThisFlag movement. Evan became a global symbol of nonviolent resistance when his heartfelt video recorded in frustration and hope ignited a nationwide call for justice in Zimbabwe. We dive deep into the origin of #Thi…

1
How to Get What You Need From the People in Charge with Melody Wilding 36:57

1M ago36:57

36:57

Do you know how to effectively communicate with someone in a higher position, such as your boss, a board, or anyone in a position of authority? Kevin welcomes Melody Wilding, who shares strategies and conversation frameworks to help professionals at all levels navigate complex relationships with their leaders. Melody and Kevin discuss the concept o…

1
How Patient are You with Others? - Thoughts from Kevin 5:02

1M ago5:02

5:02

How patient are you with others—especially as a leader? In this episode of Remarkable TV, Kevin Eikenberry explores why patience is more than just a virtue—it’s a leadership skill that impacts trust, engagement, and your effectiveness as a coach. Kevin walks through the common triggers that test our patience (like stress, urgency, and mood), and he…

1
Episode #151 - Ivan Valdez of Taquizas Valdez 1:19:08

1M ago1:19:08

1:19:08

Ivan Valdez is the veteran chef and creative driver behind Taquizas Valdez, a vibrant taqueria and panadería tucked away in Irving Park. The establishment is renowned for its inventive tacos, house-baked shareable tortas, and weekend pastries, all of which pay homage to Valdez’s rich culinary heritage and personal journey. But his path to restaurat…

1
244. How to Solve the Right Problems in Business - Tara Landes 24:24

1M ago24:24

24:24

In the episode 244 of the IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast, I'm thrilled to welcome Tara Landes — founder of Bellrock, seasoned management consultant, leadership trainer, and expert in turning strategy into sustainable success for small businesses. With an MBA, PROSCI certification, a license in Influence Training, and over 25 years of experience advising mor…

1
Bringing Values to Life at Work with Laura Hamill 35:28

1M ago35:28

35:28

What makes culture so powerful, and why do so many organizations get it wrong? Kevin sits down with organizational psychologist Laura Hamill to discuss the disconnect between the practice of culture and the science of culture. Laura defines culture not just as what’s visible on the surface, but as the underlying "collective set of reasons why" beha…

1
Patience Can Be More Than Waiting - Thoughts from Kevin 4:59

2M ago4:59

4:59

Kevin Eikenberry challenges the traditional notion of patience as merely waiting. Instead, he introduces the concept of proactive patience — a dynamic and intentional approach that involves movement, reflection, and growth even during periods of waiting. Kevin highlights the balance between slowing down without becoming passive and maintaining forw…

1
Episode #150 - Sarah Grueneberg of Monteverde 1:26:46

2M ago1:26:46

1:26:46

Chef Sarah Grueneberg — the James Beard Award-winning chef and founder of Monteverde, now celebrating its 10th anniversary — joins us in the studio for a warm and lively conversation. You might recognize her from her unforgettable run on Top Chef, but Sarah’s career spans far beyond television: she’s known for her soulful approach to Italian cuisin…

1
243. Cultivating Human-Centric Leadership - Andrea Wanerstrand 25:13

2M ago25:13

25:13

In the episode 243 of the IDEAS+LEADERS Podcast we are diving deep into leadership, mindset, and workplace culture with Andrea Wanerstrand, Founder & CEO of A3 Culture Lab and a leadership coach with over 20 years of global consulting experience. Andrea has helped top organizations like Microsoft and T-Mobile create human-centric cultures that cham…

1
Cultivating Autonomy, Authority and Leadership in Every Role with Judith Katz and Fred Miller 35:06

2M ago35:06

35:06

Are you empowering others or unleashing agency? In this episode, Judith Katz and Fred Miller join Kevin to discuss the role of agency in the workplace. While autonomy and authority are often topics of discussion, agency — the ability for all individuals, regardless of their role or tenure, to possess power, influence, and a voice — is crucial for h…

1
Music Medicine with the artist Sudakra 1:25:43

2M ago1:25:43

1:25:43

Julian talks with Sudakra. Sudakra is a musician, DJ, yogi & healer. Learn more about Sudakra: https://linktr.ee/sudakra https://tr.ee/8YTKdCFvPa https://open.spotify.com/artist/0BKQ82IMMgyoCzoEaxi0hw https://www.instagram.com/sudakra https://tr.ee/WpBd6z3Qsm Order Premium quality Shilajit from the sacred Ural Mountains of Russia. Message Julian fo…

1
Finding Safety in Uncertainty - Thoughts from Kevin 4:45

2M ago4:45

4:45

In times of uncertainty, many leaders freeze, worry, or retreat — but what if there was a better way? In this episode of Remarkable TV, Kevin Eikenberry explores the common reactions to uncertainty that hold us back, and he offers four proactive strategies to help you lead with confidence even when the path isn't clear. This episode draws directly …

1
Episode #149 - Kevin Brown of Lettuce Entertain You 1:20:51

2M ago1:20:51

1:20:51

This week, we sit down with Kevin Brown, former CEO and one of the earliest employees of the renowned restaurant group Lettuce Entertain You, whose depth, variety, and consistent success have made it a cornerstone of the hospitality world. Kevin’s creative instincts, quiet wisdom, and sharp business acumen have been central to the company’s remarka…

1
242. Financial Mistakes Entrepreneurs Make - Rohit Maini 26:02

2M ago26:02

26:02

In the episode 242 of IDEAS+LEADERS podcast we’re diving into the world of entrepreneurship with Rohit Maini, Managing Director of the award-winning Apex Accountancy — named London’s "Most Trusted Accountancy Practice" of 2023. In this inspiring conversation, Rohit shares his journey into entrepreneurship, insights into the evolving business landsc…

1
Creating Human-Powered Leadership with Dr. Christie Smith 37:28

2M ago37:28

37:28

Are we in a modern renaissance? Kevin welcomes Dr. Christie Smith to discuss the major shifts impacting leadership today, including distributed teams, AI, workforce expectations, and global uncertainties. Dr. Smith introduces the concept of gray-collar workers, a growing segment of the workforce that combines blue- and white-collar roles and explai…

1
When Different is Good - Thoughts from Kevin 5:11

2M ago5:11

5:11

When is different actually better? In this episode of Remarkable TV, Kevin shares a personal example of breaking from routine and explores how “different” can lead to growth, innovation, and new perspective. From comfort zones to habit loops, Kevin dives into the psychology of sameness — and offers compelling reasons why leaders need to occasionall…

1
Episode #148 - Peter Vestinos of Bisous & Sparrow 1:26:54

2M ago1:26:54

1:26:54

Peter Vestinos is the driving force behind Bisous and Sparrow, two of Chicago’s most celebrated cocktail destinations, where his signature mix of elegance and intention defines the drinking experience. In addition to helming these standout bars, Peter is also the hospitality coach and cocktail program curator behind BarMedic, the consulting company…

1
241. Building Positive Team Culture - Lisa Even 24:03

2M ago24:03

24:03

In the episode 241 of IDEAS+LEADERS podcast I am speaking with Lisa Even about creating a positive team culture. Lisa is a leadership and culture expert who helps organizations create workplaces where people want to show up, engage, and make an impact. Lisa’s journey started in a small café, where she learned that leadership isn’t about numbers—it’…

1
Spirit in Action: Jake Whan, Breathwork Facilitator & Channel #136 56:42

2M ago56:42

56:42

Julian talks with Jake Whan, breathwork facilitator, Channel and healer. About Jake: I’m a Master Healer, Breathwork Facilitator, and Channel deeply devoted to helping people awaken to their true essence. My work blends somatic breathwork, energy healing, and intuitive guidance to support spiritual seekers, leaders, and high performers in healing t…

1
Undoing Urgency with Ryan Matt Reynolds 45:19

2M ago45:19

45:19

Does your calendar align with what you say matters most? Kevin sits down with Ryan Matt Reynolds, to talk about the impact of living in a constant state of urgency. He emphasizes the importance of identifying core values and intentionally aligning daily actions with those values. The conversation also covers the voluntary hardship of choosing chall…

1
Do You Run Through the Tape? - Thoughts from Kevin 4:33

2M ago4:33

4:33

Are you coasting toward your goals—or are you running through the tape? In this episode of Remarkable TV, Kevin Eikenberry explores the powerful metaphor of running through the tape, borrowed from the world of track and field, and applies it to leadership, goal-setting, and personal growth. Whether you're finishing a project, wrapping up a quarter,…

1
Episode #147 - Erick Williams of Virtue Hospitality Group 1:54:36

2M ago1:54:36

1:54:36

Chef Erick Williams is the award-winning restaurateur, community-builder, and mentor whose dedication to equity, leadership, and culinary excellence makes him one of Chicago’s most influential voices in food. He understands the importance of hospitality in making people’s days better—especially in a city like Chicago, which he sees as the perfect b…

1
240. Building a Thriving Culture - Gaby Jordan 32:49

2M ago32:49

32:49

How can leaders create aligned teams and foster a culture that drives success? In this episode, we sit down with Gaby Jordan, CEO of Source Elements Group and Founder of Human Better EDU, to explore her 4 C’s for Culture—Connect with Others, Clear the Air, Champion Conversations, and Create the Future. Gaby shares insights on championing conversati…

1
How to Communicate More Effectively and Lead a Better Life with Michael Hoeppner 37:59

3M ago37:59

37:59

Have you ever wondered how the physical act of speaking can improve your communication? Kevin sits down with Michael Chad Hoeppner to discuss the physical nature of communication and exercises we can do to get better. Michael challenges our common assumptions about speaking, such as believing it’s purely a mental activity. Instead, he introduces th…

1
What Do You Do When You Reach a Milestone? - Thoughts from Kevin 5:32

3M ago5:32

5:32

Milestones aren’t just the end of a journey—they’re a powerful pause point. In this episode of Remarkable TV, Kevin Eikenberry shares what leaders should do when they reach a milestone. Using the release of his new book Flexible Leadership as a backdrop, Kevin explores six powerful ways to maximize the impact of these moments: ✅ Acknowledge 🎉 Celeb…

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Episode #146 - Ina Pinkney, Hospitality Legend 1:41:54

2M ago1:41:54

1:41:54

This week’s guest needs no introduction — but we’ll give it a shot anyway. Ina Pinkney is the sage-like force and entrepreneurial spirit behind the late great Ina’s Kitchen, a beloved Chicago culinary landmark known for its warmth, character, and unforgettable food. But, as she wryly reminds us, she didn’t arrive fully formed. A childhood illness a…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Kevin Sparrow Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen