The Mastery Effect - Episode 2 | Engaging with the system - Adam KAHANE (Canada)

Thriving in the Age of Disruption

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In this episode of The Mastery Effect, Ms Poorani Thanusha, co-founder of Impact Velocity and Dr. Ramesh Ramachandra, founder of Talent Leadership Crucible speaks with Adam Kahane, co-founder of Reos Partners, author, and globally recognised facilitator.

Adam shares insights from over 30 years of working with governments, corporations, and communities tackling tough, systemic challenges — from South Africa’s post-apartheid transition to indigenous healthcare in Canada.

His approach bridges personal mastery, systems thinking, and what he calls “stretch collaboration,” showing us how leadership today demands both self-awareness and collective action.

Key Topics Covered:
1. Stretch Collaboration - Learning to work with people we don’t agree with, don’t like, or don’t trust.
2. The Role of Personal Mastery in Systems Work - Why inner clarity is essential for navigating complex external challenges.
3. Power and Love as Forces for Change - Drawing on Martin Luther King Jr.’s quote, “Power without love is reckless and abusive, but love without power is sentimental and anaemic”, Adam reflects on balancing assertion and compassion in leadership.
4. Moving Beyond Fixing to Co-Emerging - Why traditional problem-solving doesn’t work with systemic challenges, and what to do instead.
5. Personal Lessons from 30+ Years of Facilitation - How Adam’s own learning
journey mirrors the work he does with organisations and societies.

Key Takeaways:

• The only instrument we have to create systemic change is ourselves.
• Systems leadership requires humility, listening, and the ability to let go of control.
• Real change is not about forcing solutions but co-creating what emerges next.
• Both power and love must be present in leadership for lasting impact.

About Us
Interviewee’s Affiliation: Adam Kahane is Co-founder of Reos Partners.
Impact Velocity – Co-founded by Poorani Thanusha, advancing purposeful leadership and systemic change.
Talent Leadership Crucible – Founded by Dr. Ramesh Ramachandra, cultivating leadership that thrives in complexity through coaching,

🗓️ Upcoming Events:
· Global SOL Forum, Vietnam | 26–28 Sept 2025, Virtual Addresses by Peter Senge (26 Sept 2025) and Alan AtKisson (28 Sept 2025)
· Adam Kahane's Half-Day Workshop, Vietnam | 27 Sept 2025

. Sustainable Success for Collective Advantage, (SSCA) Program

• Singapore | 19 to 21 November 2025 OR 26 to 28 November 2025
• Vietnam | 3 to 5 December 2025

Thriving in the Age of Disruption with Dr. Ramesh Ramachandra
Ready to thrive in today’s fast-changing world? Visit our website for exclusive insights and resources from Dr. Ramesh!

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🎙️ This podcast is proudly produced by Talent Leadership Crucible.