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#26 Curiosity in nonprofit retail with Ed Ewing

A thumbnail for the Curiosity at Work podcast episode "Curiosity in nonprofit retail" with Ed Ewing. It features Julie Pham as the host. The podcast is presented by "Curiosity Based."

In this episode of Curiosity at Work, Dr. Julie Pham explores curiosity in nonprofit retail with Ed Ewing, Executive Director of Bike Works, a Seattle-based nonprofit that empowers youth and builds community through bicycles. With over 30 years of leadership experience, Ed shares his passion for social justice, racial equity, and cycling. These values drive the mission at Bike Works, where all revenue from selling refurbished bikes is reinvested into the community.

Building Access for Underserved Communities

Ed’s visionary leadership focuses on creating access for underserved communities, particularly in Seattle’s South End. By using bicycles as a tool for connection, Bike Works fosters a sense of empowerment and belonging. This episode explores how curiosity plays a central role in guiding Bike Works through challenges.

For instance, when youth programs were shuttered during the pandemic, Ed and his team quickly adapted. They launched the BikeMobile, a mobile shop delivering low-cost and free bike services to neighborhoods in need. This initiative highlights the importance of being open to change and listening to the community’s needs.

Leading with Curiosity

Ed believes that curiosity is key to effective leadership. He encourages his team to ask questions, listen deeply, and challenge assumptions. His mantra, “Be curious and don’t take it personally,” has been vital in navigating uncertainty with clarity and compassion. This mindset fosters a workplace culture where growth and feedback are welcomed.

A Model for Social Justice in Nonprofits

Under Ed’s leadership, Bike Works has become a model for integrating social justice into nonprofit operations. The organization has made strides in expanding wellness time, ensuring pay equity, and supporting staff-led innovation. Ed’s leadership demonstrates how nonprofits can thrive while staying true to their core mission of equity and justice.

Whether mentoring staff, redefining nonprofit success, or sparking joy through cycling, Ed Ewing embodies leadership driven by curiosity and heart. This episode is a reminder that great leadership isn’t about having all the answers. Instead, it’s about asking better questions and leading with empathy.

Connect with Dr. Julie Pham:

Connect with Ed Ewing:

#EdEwing #BikeWorks #CuriosityAtWork #NonprofitLeadership #SocialJustice #RacialEquity #CommunityEmpowerment #YouthDevelopment #LeadershipWithPurpose #SeattleNonprofits #BikesForChange #YouthPrograms #CommunityBuilding #BikeRepairServices #CuriosityInLeadership”

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#24 Curiosity in health and social services with Michael Byun

Video thumbnail: A thumbnail for the Curiosity at Work podcast episode "Curiosity in health & social services" with Michael Byun. It features Julie Pham as the host. The podcast is presented by "Curiosity Based."

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Curiosity at Work: Michael Byun on Leadership, Curiosity, and Social Change in Health and Social Services

In episode 24 of Curiosity at Work, Dr. Julie Pham interviews Michael Byun, Executive Director of Asian Counseling and Referral Service (ACRS), to explore how curiosity influences leadership in health and social services. Michael shares how curiosity drives effective leadership in complex environments and supports social justice, especially for diverse and underserved communities.

Michael Byun’s Leadership in Health and Social Services

With over 25 years of experience in health disparities, social justice, and immigrant and refugee issues, Michael currently leads over 320 employees at ACRS, Washington’s largest agency serving Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander (AANHPI) communities. His work centers on supporting diverse populations and multilingual teams while balancing urgent service needs with long-term policy goals.

Curiosity in Leadership: Embracing Complexity and Adaptability

Curiosity plays a critical role in Michael’s leadership approach. It helps him stay open-minded and adaptable, especially when quick decisions and emotional sensitivity are necessary. Michael explains how curiosity fosters reflection, enabling leaders to remain flexible and make better decisions in complex situations.

Supporting Staff Well-Being Through a Hybrid Work Model

To support staff well-being, ACRS has adopted a hybrid work model that addresses the emotional demands placed on their team. Michael describes how curiosity helps create an environment where employees feel safe to ask questions, challenge assumptions, and contribute new ideas. These conversations lead to stronger collaboration and innovation, improving outcomes for both staff and the community.

Intentional Leadership in High-Pressure Environments

In high-pressure environments, Michael emphasizes the importance of intentional leadership. Pausing before making decisions or listening deeply can result in better outcomes. By practicing curiosity and mindfulness, leaders can make thoughtful choices that positively impact their teams and the communities they serve.

Real-World Impact: Curiosity in Action

Throughout the conversation, Michael shares real-world examples of how curiosity has led to positive change. For example, curiosity helped ACRS address community safety concerns, advocate for more equitable services, and push for systemic changes through thoughtful policy engagement.

A Valuable Perspective on Social Change

As a former Obama appointee to the President’s Advisory Commission on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, Michael brings a rare and valuable perspective on leadership and social change. His insights demonstrate how curiosity drives grassroots work and fuels broader social change, helping leaders push for more inclusive policies and equitable services.

Valuable Leadership Lessons for Empathy and Purpose

This episode offers meaningful lessons for anyone leading with empathy and purpose. Whether you work in healthcare, nonprofits, or advocacy, curiosity is a powerful and essential tool for making a lasting impact. Michael’s story highlights the transformative power of curiosity in driving social change and creating inclusive, supportive environments.

Connect with Dr. Julie Pham:

Connect with Michael Byun:

#MichaelByun #ACRS #CuriosityAtWork #Leadership #SocialJustice #CommunityAdvocacy #NonprofitLeadership #PublicPolicy #MentalHealth #DiversityAndInclusion #WorkforceDevelopment #HybridWork

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