What happens when CFOs lead with intention, values, and vulnerability? In this episode, Tim Magwood—High Impact CEO and Executive Coach, and Co-Founder/Partner at 1-DEGREE/Shift— explores how culture-driven leadership impacts performance.
Tim’s background in business transformation and team alignment offers powerful insight for CFOs looking to elevate not just results, but relationships. He shares how “heartful” leadership can enhance trust, sharpen focus, and drive sustained growth, especially in founder-led and scaling organizations.
We dive into why CFOs are often the glue in a company’s leadership team—and how they can use that position to build trust and clarity across the business. Tim also highlights the importance of being intentional with your team, why vulnerability is an underrated asset in financial leadership, and how simple daily rituals can create cultural momentum.
This conversation is a reminder that finance leaders don’t just report on the numbers—they shape the conditions that drive them.
Key Moments:
00:36 – Tim’s journey: music, facilitation, and culture
03:22 – What “heartful” leadership really means
07:10 – Why CFOs are often the glue in the leadership team
10:45 – Shaping culture through intention and values
14:30 – Emotional intelligence and building trust
18:12 – How small rituals create momentum
21:50 – The link between storytelling and leadership
25:35 – CFOs as performance enablers, not just reporters
29:00 – Culture isn’t soft—it’s a strategic asset
33:20 – Advice for CFOs stepping into greater leadership
