Built by Margin with Laurie Chen
Built by Margin is the podcast at the intersection of risk, numbers, and decision-making for founders, CEOs, and high performers. Hosted by CPA, fractional CFO, and author of the upcoming book Risk Worthy, Laurie Chen, CPA, MBA, the show explores how better decisions create better businesses, stronger leadership, and more meaningful long-term outcomes. From financial strategy and entrepreneurship to intelligent risk-taking and growth, each episode helps you think sharper and build with intention.
Built by Margin with Laurie Chen
The 2mm Shift: How Tiny Decisions Transform Leadership with Gamal J. Palmer
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What if the biggest breakthrough in your leadership doesn't require a major transformation, but just a two-millimeter shift?
In Episode 61 of Built by Margin, Laurie Chen sits down with Gamal J. Palmer, founder of Conscious Builders and creator of the Relaxed Leadership Playbook, to explore why successful leaders burn out, how small changes create lasting impact, and what it really takes to lead effectively under pressure.
Drawing from his experience working with organizations including DreamWorks, Nike, Nestlé, and NBCUniversal, Gamal explains why burnout isn't always about working too many hours. Sometimes, it's the organizational structures, workplace politics, and relationships that quietly drain even the most capable executives.
The conversation also explores the importance of developing real expertise rather than just a public persona, and why leaders should empower their teams with AI instead of simply replacing people.
In this episode, you'll learn:
- Why traditional leadership approaches often lead to burnout and diminished performance.
- How to lead effectively through uncertainty, constant change, and high-pressure situations.
- What relaxed leadership really means—and why it doesn't mean lowering your standards.
- How self-awareness and emotional regulation influence the decisions leaders make.
- Why sustainable high performance starts with building internal capacity rather than simply working harder.
- Practical ways to build trust, resilience, and stronger relationships within your team.
- How to redefine success as a leader without sacrificing your well-being.
Gamal shares two of the biggest risks of his own career: pivoting from a promising acting career at Yale to business and leadership development, and walking away from the financial security of an executive position to launch his own company.
At the heart of this conversation is a powerful reminder: Small, intentional shifts in how we lead, think, and make decisions can compound into extraordinary long-term results.
Whether you're a founder, executive, or professional navigating your next big decision, this episode offers a fresh perspective on leadership, risk, and sustainable success.
Laurie Chen
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lauriechencpamba/
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauriechen/
Risk Worthy: https://www.riskworthy.co/
Gamal J. Palmer
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gamal-j-palmer-67986926/
Website: https://www.gamalpalmer.com/
Relaxed Leadership Playbook: https://www.gamalpalmer.com/relaxed-leadership