Podcast

Firing on All Syllables

Invaluable tips from the world's most influential leaders. Hosted by Gary Kalaci.
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Latest Episodes

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    Executive Transitions in Regulated Industries: The Hidden Power of Networks with Mark Hamill – Ep52

    Artificial intelligence, regulatory pressure, and evolving business demands are forcing leaders in regulated industries to rethink how they operate, but one constant remains: relationships drive opportunity.

    In this episode of Firing On All Syllables, Gary Kalaci speaks with Mark Hamill about executive transitions, leadership in regulated environments, and how networks shape career outcomes, board opportunities, and business growth.

    They discuss:
    - Why 80% of executive opportunities come from your network
    - How leaders should approach career transitions and second careers
    - The role of boards in scaling businesses and managing risk
    - Why “giving” creates long-term advantage in executive leadership
    - How to navigate uncertainty after leaving a long-term role

    If you’re a senior leader, board member, or executive operating in legal, financial, or other regulated industries, this conversation offers a practical perspective on staying relevant, building influence, and unlocking new opportunities.

    42 min listen

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    A.I. in Law: You Cannot Outsource Accountability with Chad Aboud – Ep51

    Artificial intelligence is rapidly changing how legal work gets done, but accountability still sits with professionals.

    In this episode of Firing On All Syllables, Gary Kalaci speaks with Chad Aboud, Chief Commercial Officer at Goodlawyer, about how legal leaders should approach A.I., technology, and the evolving role of in-house counsel and law firms.

    They discuss:
    - Why accountability cannot be outsourced in the age of A.I.
    - How legal teams should think about validation, risk, and governance
    - The shift from legal “gatekeepers” to business partners and system architects
    - How to stay close to the business while scaling with technology

    If you're a legal leader navigating A.I. adoption, this conversation will help you think more clearly about trust, responsibility, and where professionals add the most value.

    40 min listen

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    Resilience, a tool to face challenge – Zabeen Hirji – Founder, Purposeful Third Act | Former CHRO, RBC – Ep50

    Leadership is not about where you sit. It’s about how you show up.
    In our latest episode of Firing On All Syllables, Gary Kalaci speaks with Zabeen Hirji about what it takes to create opportunity inside organizations, especially when influence doesn’t come from title alone.

    From advancing values that leaders dismissed as “soft” to earning sponsorship and driving impact in the face of resistance, Zabeen reflects on how executives can move initiatives forward and build alignment across organizations.

    Recently appointed to the Order of Ontario and named Trent University’s 13th Chancellor, Zabeen brings a rare blend of conviction, humility, and purpose to the conversation.

    39 min listen

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    Leadership, judgment, and restraint at the side of Nelson Mandela with Etienne van Eck – Ep49

    In this episode of Firing On All Syllables, Gary Kalaci speaks with Etienne van Eck, who served as a close protection officer to Nelson Mandela during South Africa’s transition from apartheid to democracy.

    Drawing on firsthand experience during one of the most consequential periods in modern leadership, Etienne reflects on judgment under pressure, the discipline of restraint when power is absolute, and how fragile public trust truly is when every decision is visible.

    The conversation connects Mandela’s example to the realities leaders face today: moral complexity, heightened scrutiny, and the responsibility that comes with leadership in uncertain times.

    43 min listen

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