In this episode of the Badass Leaders Podcast, Jonathan Bennett, leadership advisor, board director, and former CEO, shares how great leaders don’t avoid conflict—they humanize it.

From scripting tough conversations with executives to building resilient board cultures, Jonathan reveals how curiosity, generosity, and relational governance can transform how leaders show up in the moments that matter most.

You’ll hear:

• Why conflict can unlock growth instead of derail it

• How boards can move beyond ego and power struggles

• The personal journey that shaped Jonathan’s leadership philosophy

• Practical tools to lead with clarity, curiosity, and courage

If you’ve ever wondered how to navigate the hardest conversations without losing your humanity—or your influence—this conversation is for you.

Learn More About Jonathan:

• Podcast: https://clearlythen.com/listen

• Website: clearlythen.com

• LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/bennettjonathan/

Mentioned in this Episode:

• A League of Their Own (film) – quote “It’s supposed to be hard. If it were easy, everyone would do it.”

• Culture Eats Strategy for Breakfast – popular business quote

• AI note-taking tools: Fathom (Angela’s mention): https://www.fathom.ai/

• AI note-taking tools: Granola (Jonathan’s mention): https://www.granola.ai/

• Angela’s blog about hobbies: https://www.angelagillnelms.com/why-doing-many-things-at-once-might-be-the-smartest-move-you-ever-make/

About Angela: Angela Gill Nelms is a trailblazer in the creation of exceptional companies and teams. She serves as the Director of Biolocity and is the Founder and Chief Executive Officer of both The AGN Group and the Recovery Advocate Network. Previously, she held the position of Chief Operations Officer at Aetos Imaging, RenovoRx, and Florence Healthcare. With a Bachelor's degree in Biomedical Engineering from Georgia Tech, Angela has a proven track record of successfully navigating the FDA, leading diverse teams, prioritizing the needs of customers and patients, and building exceptional companies.

Angela shares her lessons learned around the country in keynote speeches, coaching, and team-building workshops. Learn more about Angela at www.AngelaGillNelms.com.

About The AGN Group: At The AGN Group, we believe every individual, team, and company can unlock their inner badass, one brave step at a time. We offer keynote and panel speaking, leadership and team-building workshops, fractional and management consulting, brand and storytelling services. Email us at [email protected] to connect. Learn more at www.TheAGNGroup.com.

Social Media Channels:

• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@bebravebebadass/podcasts

• Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/73Dg8OQ7SqtGtSiCWQUfLB?si=c17c0f1abe29446f

• Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/badass-leaders-podcast-brave-hearts-brave-conversations/id1788987881

• Audible: https://www.audible.com/podcast/Badass-Leaders-Podcast-Brave-Hearts-Brave-Conversations-Badass-Leaders/B0DS2CQL9V?source_code=ASSGB149080119000H&share_location=pdp

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• TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@baleaderspod

• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/badass-leaders-podcast2

Want to be a Podcast Guest?

If you are interested in being a guest on the podcast, email [email protected].

Learn more about the podcast at www.BadassLeadersPodcast.com.