Episode 29: Strategic Clarity, Leadership, and AI - Marcus Dudley on Modern Leadership in the Digital Age Artwork

UNBOXING OD: From Curiosity to Capability in Organizational Development

Unboxing OD is your guide to making sense of Organizational Development - one thoughtful conversation at a time. Hosted by Kenneth Pearson, seasoned OD practitioner and author of The Flow of Five Tiers, this podcast unpacks the complexity of organizational life with clarity, compassion, and a bit of edge.

Whether you're an early-career OD professional, a leader trying to navigate change, or simply someone who believes workplaces can be more human, you'll find grounded insights and actionable takeaways here. While most episodes are solo deep dives into the fieldwork and philosophy behind OD, we also feature voices from the field, bringing in experts, newcomers, and those who challenge the status quo.

No jargon. No endless theory. Just practical wisdom, lived experience, and a steady focus on making organizations better for the people who keep them alive.

Ready to deepen your OD practice? Connect with Kenneth on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/in/kenneth-pearson or visit the Pearson & Pearson LLC website at www.pearsonpearson.llc.

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UNBOXING OD: From Curiosity to Capability in Organizational Development

Episode 29: Strategic Clarity, Leadership, and AI - Marcus Dudley on Modern Leadership in the Digital Age

September 19, 2025 • Kenneth Pearson • Season 2 • Episode 9

In this episode of Unboxing OD, Kenneth Pearson is joined by Marcus Dudley, leadership and organizational consultant, executive coach, professor, and CEO of Mammoth Leadership and Organizational Development. With over three decades of experience spanning the military, sports, nonprofits, and business, Marcus brings a direct, no-fluff perspective on what modern leaders need most.

The conversation explores why so many leadership development programs fall short, the importance of strategic clarity, and how to spot and eliminate “performance drag” — the invisible weight that slows leaders and teams down. Kenneth and Marcus also discuss the overlap and distinction between management and leadership, the ripple effects of stress and growth from workplace to home, and why understanding AI has become a critical leadership skill.

Whether you’re an OD practitioner, an HR leader, or simply someone curious about what makes leadership effective in today’s world, this episode offers practical insights grounded in real-world experience.

Connect with Marcus Dudley: