
Episode #20
Ep 20: Leading on the Edge: Advancing Leadership With Heart, Integrity, and Innovation w/Judi Neal
For full show notes, visit https://heartsetstudio.com/podcast What does it truly mean to lead with heart in times of uncertainty and change? Step into a transformative conversation on the HEARTset Studio Leadership Podcast, where Lisa Virtue welcomes Dr. Judi Neal, renowned author, scholar, and founder of Edgewalkers International. With a PhD from Yale and decades spent pioneering the field of workplace spirituality, Judi Neal brings unparalleled insight into the intersection of leadership, creativity, and the authentic self. In this episode, leaders and change agents will discover: What is an "Edgewalker"? Learn how having one foot in the mainstream and one in the realm of creativity or “weirdness” drives authentic innovation and impact in organizations. Real-world leadership lessons from whistleblowing at a major defense manufacturer—how one’s heart and integrity can shape courageous choices in the face of systemic wrongdoing. The shift from top-down to collective leadership: Explore groundbreaking examples of companies and communities, like the Fetzer Institute and Rockport Shoes, that are embracing shared leadership models and heart-centered practices to increase collaboration, trust, and innovation. Five Archetypes of Change: Discover Judi Neal’s new model for navigating transformation—Edgewalkers, Flamekeepers, Hearth Tenders, Placeholders, and Guardians—and how leaders can use these archetypes to build effective teams and lead change with compassion. Actionable tips for leaders : From harnessing intuition and spirituality at work to practical strategies for creating psychological safety, authentic communication, and fostering true inclusion. You’ll also learn about the “Edgewalker” self-assessment and how embracing your natural change archetype—alone or with your team—can unlock higher performance, resilience, and meaning in your organization. If you’re seeking: Leadership podcasts about heart-centered and authentic leadership in business How to drive organizational change while supporting wellness and innovation Practical frameworks for collective leadership, psychological safety, and team engagement How to integrate workplace spirituality without religious overtones Tools and insights for navigating rapid change, AI disruption, and workplace transformation —this episode provides the fresh perspectives, real stories, and expert frameworks leaders are turning to for inspiration and true impact. Be ready to walk the edge, lead with heart, and discover your unique role in transforming the future of work. Don’t miss this essential episode with Dr. Judi Neal and Lisa Virtue—your roadmap to courageous, connected, and conscious leadership starts here.

