In this episode of The Real Leadership Podcast, I sit down with Patrick Stafford-Smith, CEO of the North Vancouver Chamber, to talk about something that’s often misunderstood and for many, uncomfortable: networking.

Patrick and I both used to be a bit skeptical about networking. We didn’t see the point at first, and like many people, we weren’t exactly eager to dive into it. That awkward feeling in a crowded room, the pressure to “work the room,” or the idea that networking means selling yourself. But over time, we’ve come to see networking differently and in this conversation, we unpack how that shift happened.

We talk about the power of being authentic, the importance of timing, and why networking should start with two goals: to learn and to help. If you're a seasoned connector or someone who dreads small talk, there’s something here for you.

Let’s talk about the truth behind networking and how to make it work in a way that feels real.

In this episode of The Real Leadership Podcast, I sit down with VJ Tarzić, an incredible Employee Engagement Coach & Consultant whose life journey, from growing up in Yugoslavia to leading teams and coaching executives, has shaped a powerful perspective on leadership, connection, and purpose.

VJ shares how his personal and professional experiences have led him to help leaders find more balance in their lives. We talk about his approach to bridging divides—whether cultural, personal, or organizational—and the four key pillars he believes every leader should nurture: work, play, health, and love.

It’s a conversation about looking to the past to better understand the future, and about how choosing to lead with humanity can transform not just our organizations, but ourselves.

Welcome to The Real Leadership Podcast with Chris Obst! In this episode, Chris shares 10 actionable tips to boost your energy throughout the workday—so you don’t just power through your job but also have energy left for your family and personal life. From strategic breaks to smarter planning, these simple yet effective strategies will help you stay sharp, focused, and productive. Tune in to learn how to work smarter, not harder!