Leading People: Recent Episodes
Gerry Murray
Gerry Murray talks to leading people about leading people. Get insights and tips from thought leaders about how to bring out the best in yourself and others.
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What happens inside us doesn’t just stay inside us.
Our beliefs, emotions, assumptions and internal state all influence how other people experience us — often before we have said very much at all.
In this short reflection episode, Gerry Murray revisits two earlier Leading People conversations with Julia Carden, Alan Briskin and Mary Gelinas.
Together, they explore why self-awareness is never just an individual matter, how our presence shapes the atmosphere around us, and why leading others begins with paying closer attention to what we ourselves are bringing into the room.
From the idea that “who you are is how you lead,” to the subtle ways our inner state affects conversations, relationships and the wider field, this episode offers a timely invitation to pause and reflect.
Before your next meeting, conversation or difficult moment, pause and consider:
What happens when you walk into the room?
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What happens when organisations move faster, adopt smarter tools, and still keep running into the same problems?
In this short reflection episode, Gerry Murray revisits two earlier Leading People conversations — with Chris Soderquist and Angela Montgomery — to explore why better tools do not remove the need for better thinking.
From repeated problems and firefighting, to silos, outdated management habits, and the danger of automating what isn’t working, this episode is a timely reminder that leadership in a complex world still depends on judgment, perspective, and systemic awareness.
If you care about leadership, decision-making, learning, change, or the hidden cost of solving the wrong problem, this episode is for you.
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What if the biggest risk in AI-driven hiring is not what it helps you find — but what it filters out before a human ever gets involved?
In this episode, Gerry Murray talks to investigative journalist and author Hilke Schellmann about what happens when black-box AI tools start shaping high-stakes workplace decisions.
Hilke’s book, The Algorithm, exposed how AI was already being used to assess, rank, and filter people in hiring and employment. In this conversation, she shares some of the strange, troubling, and very human stories behind that work — and why leaders, HR teams, and hiring managers may need to ask much harder questions before trusting these systems.
Together, Gerry and Hilke explore bias, false objectivity, weak oversight, and the growing gap between the promises made about AI in hiring and the reality many candidates may actually face.
If talent decisions matter in your world, this episode is well worth your time.
Or, if you’re a job seeker, you might be alarmed at what’s really going on.
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Why does so much training still fail to change behaviour — even when the content is good, the facilitator is strong, and the intentions are right?
In this episode, Gerry Murray talks to learning expert, Fergal Connolly, about one of the most persistent and costly problems in workplace learning:
The gap between training delivered and behaviour changed.
Fergal argues that the issue often starts long before the session itself. If the environment around the learner is working against application, even well-designed training may struggle to make a difference.
That has major implications for L&D, for line managers, and for leaders trying to decide where learning investment is really going.
Together, Gerry and Fergal explore why training is so often asked to solve the wrong problem, what better transfer design looks like, and why the future of L&D may depend less on creating faster content and more on understanding what actually helps people apply what they learn.
If you care about leadership, learning, performance, or whether development really leads to change, this one is worth your time.
Fergal also shares a special offer for listeners during the episode.
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What if one of the most powerful ways people learn at work is also one of the most overlooked?
In this conversation, Gerry Murray talks to Andy Lancaster about why learning communities deserve far more attention from leaders than they usually get — not as a nice extra, but as a serious way to build confidence, capability, and innovation at work.
Andy’s new book, Organisational Learning Communities, explores why people often learn best with and through other people — and why that may matter even more in a world of AI, fragmented working lives, and increasing pressure to do more with less.
Together, Gerry and Andy explore what makes learning communities work, why some never quite get off the ground, and what leaders may be missing when they treat learning as an individual activity rather than a shared one.
If you care about learning, leadership, culture, or how people actually grow at work, there’s a lot in this one to think about.
Andy also shares a special listener offer during the episode.
Curious?
Connect with Andy on LinkedIn
Buy Organisational Learning Communities
Visit Andy's Website
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What if the thing holding you and your organisation back isn't a market problem, a resource problem, or even a people problem — but a thinking problem you can't yet see?
This week's guest, Angela Montgomery, has spent three decades helping leaders discover exactly that. As author of The Human Constraint and co-founder of Intelligent Management, she brings together the work of W. Edwards Deming and Eliyahu Goldratt into a practical framework for leading in complexity.
In this conversation, Angela and Gerry explore what it means to run an organisation as a living system, why the assumptions we don't question become the constraints we can't escape — and what it actually takes to think differently as a leader.
And, you could be one of 10 lucky listeners who will receive a special offer from Angela. Details in the conversation.
Curious?
Connect with Angela on LinkedIn
Visit Angela's website
Buy The Human Constraint
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Have you ever walked into a room and felt something you couldn't quite name? A tension, an energy, a sense that something invisible was shaping everything happening around you — and inside you?
What if that feeling wasn't imagination? What if there were hidden forces actively at play in every meeting, every team, every relationship — and most leaders have no idea they're there?
In this episode, Alan Briskin and Mary Gelinas — authors of Space is Not Empty — reveal what those forces are, why they matter more than ever right now, and how developing awareness of them could change the way you lead, collaborate, and make decisions forever.
This one will shift how you see the room you're sitting in right now.
Check out The Space is not Empty
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You may already be expecting this conversation.
In fact, you may be dreading it.
Someone on your team wants to talk about pay, fairness, and why they feel something doesn’t add up.
And once that conversation starts, you need to handle it in a way that feels clear, constructive, and consistent — not just for one person, but across the team.
In this short One Simple Thing episode, Gerry Murray explores a practical way to handle these conversations without getting pulled into unhelpful comparisons.
Curious?
Listen now
Book a discovery call about Team Leader Essentials or other leadership development services https://www.widecircle.eu/lets-chat-page
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What if the real issue isn’t the problem someone brings you — but the way they are thinking about it?
Or, perhaps it's how they're behaving...
In this episode of Leading People, Gerry Murray is joined by coaching pioneer Dr Marcia Reynolds to explore a more powerful approach to coaching, leadership, and human development.
Their conversation goes well beyond formal coaching. It looks at how leaders, HR professionals, and people managers can create better conversations by listening more deeply, reflecting more skillfully, and helping others find their own insight rather than rushing to fix, advise, or solve.
If you’ve ever wondered how to support real change in behaviour, confidence, and self-awareness — whether as a coach, a leader, or an HR partner — this episode will give you plenty to think about.
Curious?
Connect with Marcia on LinkedIn
Visit Marcia's website
Check out Team Leader Essentials and the Performance Accelerator here
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Few things drain a team faster than two people who just can’t seem to work well together.
And for a team leader, it can be surprisingly easy to get pulled into the wrong conversation.
In this short episode of One Simple Thing, Gerry Murray looks at a familiar workplace challenge and shares one practical shift that can help you respond with more clarity, confidence, and impact.
If you’ve ever had to deal with friction between team members, this episode is for you.
Curious to learn more?
Check out Team Leader Essentials and The Performance Accelerator https://www.widecircle.eu/our-services
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Most leaders believe they’re self-aware.
Research suggests otherwise.
Studies indicate that while the majority of us think we understand how we show up, only a small percentage are accurately perceived that way by others. And under pressure — in uncertainty — those blind spots don’t stay hidden.
- They shape our decisions.
- Our relationships.
- Our leadership.
In this episode of Leading People, Gerry Murray speaks with researcher and author Dr Julia Carden about why self-awareness is far rarer than we assume — and why it matters most in uncertain environments.
We explore:
- Why other people’s perceptions of us don’t update as quickly as we think
- What makes feedback useful rather than threatening
- The role of identity and ego in leadership blind spots
- Why self-acceptance is a quiet but powerful leadership strength
- And how self-awareness builds adaptive capacity in unstable times
If you’ve ever wondered why capable, intelligent leaders can still get in their own way — this conversation will give you language, research, and practical insight to reflect on your own leadership.
Curious?
Listen in — and notice what you'll discover about yourself
Check out the Leading People programmes
Connect with Julia on LinkedIn
Visit Julia's Website
Buy the book
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What do you say when your team pushes back on a policy you didn’t create?
This episode explores a common moment where many team leaders lose credibility — and how you can handle it differently.
If you’ve ever felt stuck between your team and “head office,” this one’s for you.
Want to go further?
Our Team Leader Essentials and Performance Accelerator programmes are designed to help you navigate tough leadership moments like this — and bring out the best in yourself and your team.
Here's the Link
https://www.widecircle.eu/better-leadership
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What if engagement wasn’t the finish line — but the starting point?
In this episode of Leading People, Gerry Murray is joined by Alli Gibbons, author of The Power of Ownership Culture, to explore how employee ownership can fundamentally reset leadership and culture — when it’s treated as more than just a new structure.
Rather than focusing on legal models or financial mechanisms, the conversation centres on what really shifts when people are invited to take genuine responsibility — and why leadership matters even more, not less, in ownership environments.
Alli shares insights from her journey across engineering, large-scale projects, and organisational culture, and explains why ownership doesn’t automatically change behaviour. Structure alone isn’t enough.
What makes the difference is how leaders
- build ownership literacy
- tell a clear strategic story
- create decision rights that invite voice without losing momentum
- and shape environments where accountability feels meaningful rather than imposed
Together, we explore the practical leadership tensions this creates — psychological safety versus pace, participation versus clarity, and the pivotal role middle managers play as translators between strategy and day-to-day work.
At its heart, this is a conversation about shifting from company-as-machine to company-as-community — where performance still matters, profit remains essential, but purpose becomes the anchor that sustains commitment over time.
This episode is for leaders who are curious about ownership — or who simply want people to think and act like owners — and are willing to reflect on what that requires of leadership itself.
Curious?
Have a listen...
Connect with Alli on LinkedIn for the special offer
Buy the book here
Visit her company website
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If you had to explain leadership in one simple sentence, what would you say?
After 100 episodes of talking to extraordinary people about what it means to lead, one answer keeps rising to the top. And it’s not what you might expect.
This short episode marks the beginning of a new chapter — and a return to something essential.
Tune in to discover the one thing that most great leaders have in common.
(And if you’re serious about growing as a leader, check out our Team Leader Essentials and Accelerating Performance programmes — link below)
Check out the Leadership Programmes
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Episode 100 felt like a moment worth marking.
Not with a summary.
Not with highlights.
And not with a look back.
Just a conversation — allowed to unfold.
This episode exists thanks to the generosity, creativity, and support of Kate Walker Miles and Valeriia Diakiv, whose contributions helped bring it into being.
As always, thank you for listening — and for being part of the Leading People journey since January 2021.
Here's to the next 100 episodes...
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What does it really mean to create a culture where people perform at their best?
In this episode of Leading People, I’m joined by Zach Mercurio, researcher, speaker, and author of The Power of Mattering, to explore how leaders can create a culture of significance — one where people feel seen, valued, and needed.
Drawing on decades of research into motivation and human performance, Zach explains why performance, resilience, and engagement suffer when people feel invisible or replaceable — and why leaders play a pivotal role in shaping the everyday signals that tell people whether they matter.
In our conversation, we explore:
- What a culture of significance really looks like in practice
- Why people perform better when they feel valued and needed
- How leaders often unintentionally signal that people don’t matter
- Small, everyday leadership behaviours that have an outsized impact
- Why significance isn’t a “soft” idea — but a serious performance driver
Zach brings these principles to life through compelling stories from an array of organisations.
Whether you lead a team, work in HR or L&D, or care about creating environments where people thrive and perform, this episode offers practical insights you can apply immediately.
Curious?
🎧 Let’s have a listen
Connect with Zach on LinkedIn
Check out the Power of Mattering on Zach's website
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Most people think they know where their paycheck comes from — but the real answer might surprise you.
In this short episode, Gerry Murray shares a surprising pattern he’s seen in leadership workshops across sectors and industries. It’s a simple mindset shift that separates teams who truly add value… from those who don’t.
This episode just might change the way you think about your work — and the people who depend on it.
Curious?
🎧 Listen now and discover One Simple Thing every leader needs to remember.
Check out Team Leader Essentials
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What really drives performance at work?
It’s a question many leaders and learning professionals wrestle with — and one that my guest, Paul Matthews, has spent decades exploring.
In this wide-ranging conversation, Paul challenges some of the most common assumptions about training and learning. Drawing on insights from his three books — on informal learning, capability building, and learning transfer — he explains why so many well-intentioned programmes fail to create real behaviour change, and what organisations must do differently.
We cover a wide range of topics, including:
- Why people learn best through activities, not content
- How capability depends on both the individual and the environment
- What your SatNav can teach you about turning learning into performance
- The link between diagnostics, performance consulting, and business outcomes
- How culture can “eat training for breakfast”, and often does
- Designing learning like an engineer: with purpose, precision, and clear success criteria
- Why AI is fast becoming “the world’s tutor” — and what that means for L&D and leaders
- Practical examples of organisations turning learning into sustained performance
Whether you’re a leader, an L&D professional, or simply someone curious about how people grow, this episode offers powerful insights into what actually helps people change behaviour — and what gets in the way.
🎧 Let’s have a listen
Connect with Paul on LinkedIn
Visit Paul's website
Check out his People Alchemy product
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Every team has a weather system — and often, as a Leader, you’re the one creating it.
In this short Leading People episode of One Simple Thing, we explore how your presence as a leader can lift people up… or wear them down.
If your team’s energy and well-being aren’t where they should be, the solution might not be more perks, more processes, or more pressure.
It might be you.
Curious?
🎧 Listen in to discover one simple leadership move that can shift the climate for the better.
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Could AI help us end conflict — at work, at home, or even at a global level?
In this episode, Gerry Murray talks with negotiation expert and author Simon Horton about his provocative new book, The End of Conflict.
We explore how AI is already influencing negotiation and collaboration, what it gets right (and wrong), and how a more symbiotic Human–AI relationship could change the way we resolve disagreements of every kind.
If you’re curious about the future of negotiation, the role of AI in reducing conflict, and what this means for leaders today, this conversation is worth your time.
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Most people have a manager. Some even have great ones. But what if you could take more ownership of the relationship — and turn your boss into a genuine career ally?
This short One Simple Thing episode explores one powerful mindset shift that could change everything.
Part of a series on how to be brilliant at the basics of leadership.
Curious?
🎧 Hit play and find out.
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What if the key to thriving in the age of AI isn’t smarter technology — but a smarter relationship with your own brain?
In this episode of Leading People, Gerry Murray talks with Dr Jon Finn, founder of Tougher Minds and author of Train Your Brain for the AI Revolution.
Jon has spent more than two decades studying how the brain drives performance and wellbeing — and how we can train it to stay focused, energised, and adaptable in an AI-saturated world.
Together, Gerry and Jon explore:
- Why brain science, not algorithms, will define the next generation of leaders
- How Brain State Intelligence helps you shift from distraction to focus and flow
- The habits that protect attention, motivation, and mental energy
- Why your inner technology — your brain — is still your ultimate competitive edge
It’s a practical and hopeful conversation about leading yourself, staying human, and using AI without losing focus or purpose.
Curious?
🎧 Listen and discover how to train your brain for the AI era.
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You just got promoted. Now what?
In this short, punchy episode, Gerry poses one essential question that every new (and not-so-new) leader needs to answer.
Because leadership isn’t just a new job…
…it’s a whole new identity.
Curious?
Tap play to find out more.
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What happens when your entire world changes overnight?
In this profound and moving episode, Julie Brown shares how she found the strength to rebuild her life and leadership practice after the tragic loss of her husband and business partner, polar explorer Dixie Dansercoer.
Drawing on her new book, Discover Your Pivot: How Strong Leaders Can Adapt to Any Situation, Julie reveals how leaders can find stability in uncertainty — not by resisting change, but by learning how to pivot with purpose.
Together, we explore:
- Why pivoting is better than managing change
- How collaboration and teamwork sustain resilience
- Why strong leaders need a suitcase of options
- How to "innovate" grief and find meaning in adversity
- Why challenge is a privilege
- And why attention may be a leader’s most powerful skill
This conversation is about grief, resilience, and hope — and what it really means to lead when life takes an unexpected turn.
Curious?
🎧 Listen now
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Check out Julie's Website
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It’s one thing to have a leadership title. It’s another thing to have people truly want to follow you.
In this Leading People episode of One Simple Thing, Gerry Murray explores the difference and what you can do to close the gap.
If you’re new to leadership or simply want to reconnect with the fundamentals, this 5-minute listen could be your reset moment.
Check out the Team Leader Essentials and Performance Accelerator programmes here
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What does your body say about you when you walk into a room?
And how much of your leadership impact depends on something you can’t see — but everyone else can feel?
In this episode, Kate Walker Miles of RADA Business — a trusted advisor to senior executives and leadership teams — reveals how posture, breath, and voice shape credibility, confidence, and influence.
Drawing on her background in experimental psychology, acting, and behavioural coaching, Kate explains how to use your body as an ally in communication, especially when the stakes are high.
And in a unique five-minute guided exercise, she helps you experience what authentic presence feels like in real time — offering practical tools to:
- Ground yourself and manage nerves before high-stakes moments
- Use breath and alignment to project calm authority
- Speak with clarity and conviction
- Reconnect with your physical presence to lead with impact
If you’ve ever wondered why some leaders hold the room while others disappear into it, this episode will help you understand — and change — what’s really going on.
A practical, engaging conversation that proves leadership isn’t just what you say — it’s how you show up.
Curious?
🎧 Listen now
🎥 Watch Kate’s humorous, yet provocative, talk The Secrets of Food Marketing — viewed over 9.2 million times on YouTube.
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What does good leadership really look like in the day-to-day?
This short Leading People episode kicks off a brand-new One Simple Thing series on how to be brilliant at the basics of leadership. Because let’s face it — it’s the basics that often go missing.
Click play to hear the one question that every leader should be asking themselves.
Check out Team Leader Essentials here
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What if bringing in the dough doesn’t always mean having the power?
In this episode, BBC journalist Melissa Hogenboom explores how breadwinning roles — in families and at work — are shaped by power dynamics, gender norms, and invisible expectations.
Whether you’re a leader, a parent, or both, this conversation will challenge how you think about success, status, and sharing the load.
Together, we discuss:
- Why power at home and power at work are more connected than we think
- How gender roles are evolving — and where they’re stuck
- Why some people feel pressure to perform, even when they don’t hold power
- What leaders and organisations can do to create more balanced dynamics
- How to open up space for empathy, equity, and trust
You'll also discover the Parenting Amplification Effect.
This episode provides a fresh take on power, ambition, and what it means to thrive — at work and at home.
Curious?
🎧 Join the conversation.
Connect with Melissa on LinkedIn
Check out Breadwinners
Read Melissa's Health Fix newsletter
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Ever typed a question into ChatGPT and gotten a weird or underwhelming response?
You’re not alone.
In this One Simple Thing episode, we explore why so many AI queries fall flat — and what leaders can do differently. There’s one small shift that makes all the difference… and no, it’s not about being a tech expert.
This is the final part of our short series on how to use AI to enhance your leadership — without losing your human touch.
🎧 Curious?
Hit play and find out what makes AI really work for you.
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What if the biggest barrier to change isn’t strategy or communication — but biology?
In this episode, organisational change expert Hilary Scarlett shares powerful insights from the 3rd edition of her book, Neuroscience for Organizational Change. She explains how understanding the brain can help leaders navigate resistance, foster trust, and lead transformation that sticks.
Drawing on neuroscience and real-world examples, Hilary shows why getting brains onboard — not just people — is the secret to lasting change.
Together, Hilary and Gerry discuss a wide range of topics, including:
- What neuroscience reveals about why people resist change
- Why uncertainty and ambiguity overwhelm the brain
- How to reduce threat responses and build trust during change
- What leaders can do to communicate more effectively
- How to create clarity, reward prediction, and support resilience
Whether you’re leading a restructure, launching a new initiative, or helping teams through transition — this episode offers practical guidance rooted in science and empathy.
Curious to learn more?
🎧 Listen now to this episode
Connect with Hilary on LinkedIn
Buy Neuroscience for Organizational Change
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What would you do with an extra 30–60 minutes in your day?
In this One Simple Thing episode, Leading People host, Gerry Murray, explores how AI can give leaders back precious time - not by taking over, but by taking the heavy lifting out of your writing tasks.
You'll be able to free up time for more important leadership tasks.
Whether it’s an email, a proposal, or a tricky LinkedIn post, learn how to use AI to create smart starting points, enhance your clarity, and even communicate across multiple languages.
If you're someone who doesn't enjoy writing, then this episode may even be a life saver!
Find out how Gerry lost a job to AI and didn't mind!
Curious to learn more?
🎧 Listen now to this Leadership time-saving tip
This is part of our mini-series on how to use AI to support your leadership, without losing your human touch.
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What separates exceptional leaders from mediocre managers?
This week's guest, Andrew Palmer, Senior Editor at The Economist and host of the Boss Class podcast, has spent years interviewing some of the world's most influential executives to answer this question.
Drawing from his extensive experience writing the witty and insightful Bartleby column and developing the Boss Class podcast series, Andrew reveals that great leadership isn't only about charisma or authority - it's about mastering the art of balance.
During our conversation, Andrew unpacks four critical leadership dimensions that emerged from his research.
First, effective leaders act as amplifiers of culture and strategy, using systematic approaches to project their vision throughout an organisation. Companies like Stryker implement this through deliberate hiring practices, organisational structures, and shared language, while Levi's CEO Michelle Gass creates tangible symbols to reinforce strategic priorities.
Second, self-management distinguishes exceptional leaders. Andrew shares a valuable insight from his presentation training with RADA: "turn selfie view off"— focus on your audience rather than yourself. GSK's Emma Walmsley consciously manages her emotions, knowing they impact everyone around her, while other executives create explicit "user manuals" detailing their working preferences.
Third, Andrew demystifies negotiation and decision-making. From the diamond district in New York to diplomatic negotiations with Iran, successful negotiators focus heavily on preparation and relationship-building before formal discussions begin. For decision-making, distinguishing between "one-way doors" (irreversible choices) and "two-way doors" (easily changed decisions) helps calibrate appropriate decision speeds.
Finally, Andrew draws fascinating parallels between jazz improvisation and crisis management, showing how thorough preparation enables creative responses to unexpected challenges. When facing novel situations, leaders succeed by empowering frontline employees to respond based on shared principles rather than rigid protocols.
Whether you're a seasoned executive or newly promoted manager, this conversation offers invaluable insights into practical leadership challenges.
Andrew's thoughtful analysis, delivered with characteristic wit, illuminates why management remains difficult even for those at the top—and he provides concrete strategies for improvement.
Curious to learn more?
🎧 Listen now to this episode
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Ever asked ChatGPT a question, looked at its response and thought… “This isn’t what I wanted”?
In this episode of One Simple Thing…
Gerry Murray reveals why so many AI prompts fail - and what to do instead. Discover how to brief AI tools like ChatGPT as you would a colleague, so they become your assistant, not your replacement.
You’ll learn:
- The six essentials of a good AI brief
- Why vague prompts produce vague outputs
- How to turn AI into a productivity partner (not a frustration machine)
Curious?
🎧 Listen now and transform your AI results with this simple leadership tip.
This is part of the One Simple Thing mini-series on using AI to lead better while staying human.
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In this episode…
How do you prove the value of your people programs when budgets are tight and leaders demand evidence?
This week's guest is Dr. Alaina Szlachta, author of the book Measurement and Evaluation on a Shoestring.
In this illuminating conversation, Alaina shares practical approaches to measurement and evaluation that don't require a PhD in statistics or massive resources.
Drawing from her experience across corporate, non-profit and academic sectors, Alaina reveals why data literacy is the foundation of effective evaluation. She explains how her journey from "data-phobic" to "data enthusiast" shaped her practical approach to demonstrating impact with limited resources.
The game-changing "Impact Hypothesis" framework Alaina shares creates a logical chain connecting learning programs to business outcomes, without requiring complex statistical analysis. Rather than attempting to prove perfect causation (which is nearly impossible in complex organisations), she demonstrates how to identify meaningful correlations and trends that reveal program effectiveness.
Most provocatively, Alaina addresses the paradox many organisations face: leaders want ROI data from learning initiatives but fail to provide the resources needed to gather it.
Her "build, borrow, buy" strategy offers practical ways to leverage existing organisational assets to overcome this challenge.
For HR professionals tired of fighting for budget without evidence, and business leaders questioning the value of people investments, this conversation offers a refreshing middle path.
Alaina's approach makes measurement accessible to everyone, transforming L&D from a cost centre to a strategic driver of organisational success.
Curious?
🎧 Listen now
Connect with Alaina on LinkedIn and mention this podcast to receive a special gift.
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Ever wonder if your message is landing the way you intend?
In this episode of One Simple Thing…
You'll discover how to use AI tools like ChatGPT to refine your writing, without losing your human voice.
This isn’t about outsourcing your message. It’s about coaching yourself to be clearer, more intentional, and more confident in what you write and send to others.
You'll learn:
- How AI can act as your writing mirror
- The power of asking better questions
- Why AI doesn’t replace your voice - it sharpens it
Curious?
🎧 Listen now and test this out for yourself.
This is part of our One Simple Thing Mini-Series on using AI to become a better leader - while staying human.
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In this episode…
Gerry Murray speaks with organisational psychologist and Chief Scientist at AIHR, Dieter Veldsman, about how to redesign work for a more human future.
Drawing on his new book Work for Humans, Dieter shares why employee experience (EX) is much more than a buzzword, and how to make it a philosophy, a process, and a practice.
Together, they discuss:
• Why EX is now a core leadership issue, not just an HR function
• How to measure EX meaningfully — without making it overly soft or overly rigid
• The role of technology in either amplifying or eroding human experience
• Why frontline workers must be central to any EX strategy
• How EX links to organisational design, trust, inclusion, and long-term performance
This is a manifesto for leaders and HR professionals who want to build workplaces where people — and businesses — thrive.
Curious?
🎧 Listen to the full conversation now to discover how to do this.
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What does it really take to become a top employer in today’s world of work?
In this episode, Gerry Murray talks to Ammara Naeem, Client Experience Director at the Top Employers Institute, about what smart HR leaders are doing differently to stay ahead, from systems thinking to AI-powered leadership.
In this fascinating conversation, you'll learn:
- What top employers are doing that others aren’t
- Why HR needs to speak the language of the business
- Gen Z, talent fluidity, and the rise of the “new collar” workforce
- The link between employee and customer experience
- How to prove the value of learning, development, and culture to the C-suite
Ammara shares practical insights from working with 2,400+ certified employers across the globe and explains why empathy still wins in uncertain times.
Curious?
🎧 Listen to the full conversation now to discover what others are doing.
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In this episode…
How often do you hit send on an email without considering how your words might land with the recipient?
Leadership communication carries emotional weight, and without the benefit of facial expressions or body language, your carefully crafted emails can easily be misinterpreted.
This episode tackles a deceptively simple yet powerful leadership practice.
When you're in a position of leadership, your words carry extra weight and get amplified throughout your team.
That quick message about a missed deadline or that feedback on a project might seem straightforward to you, but how will it make your reader feel? Will they perceive your tone as supportive or critical? Clear or confusing?
The most effective leaders understand that clarity is kindness and can transform routine communication into a meaningful connection. Remember, you're not being bossy when you're specific about what you need - you're being helpful.
Every email you send as a leader is a "moment of truth" for your leadership style and values. By applying the simple practices in this episode of One Simple Thing, you can ensure your communications build trust rather than erode it.
Curious?
🎧 Listen to this 5-minute tip on how to write emails that don’t just get read, but get results.
Connect with me on LinkedIn to share how this approach has transformed your workplace communications, and subscribe for more Leading People episodes of One Simple Thing that can make a significant difference in your leadership journey.
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In this episode…
What makes some leaders genuinely inspiring while others leave us frustrated and disengaged?
In this transformative conversation with Columbia Business School's Professor Adam Galinsky, we discuss his latest book: Inspire – The Universal Path for Leading Yourself and Others
Along the way, we uncover the hidden psychology that determines whether you'll inspire or infuriate the people around you.
Adam reveals the "Inspire-Infuriate Continuum"—a powerful framework showing how every interaction we have falls somewhere on this spectrum.
Through compelling stories and research-backed insights, he demonstrates how life naturally slants us toward the infuriating end but offers clear pathways back to inspiration.
The conversation takes fascinating turns through real-world examples, from the contrasting leadership styles during two famous crises to how a simple coffee machine placement can transform organizational culture.
Adam shares the three universal factors that determine our position on the continuum.
Perhaps most eye-opening is the "Leader Amplification Effect". To illustrate this, Adam recounts how Nobel laureate Daniel Kahneman's offhand criticism devastated him as a student, while a simple compliment weeks later has sustained him for decades.
This awareness of our impact as leaders becomes the foundation for designing more inspiring interactions.
The discussion provides practical strategies for moving toward the inspiring end of the spectrum.
Adam's insights extend beyond traditional leadership contexts - executives report becoming better spouses, parents, and friends by applying these universal principles.
Ready to transform your impact on others?
🎧 Listen now to discover the universal path for bringing out the best in yourself and everyone around you.
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In this episode…
Taking back control of your inbox might be the most important productivity shift you make as a leader.
Have you noticed how email has transformed from a helpful tool into the central focus of your workday? That subtle shift has massive consequences for your effectiveness, focus, and the example you set for your team.
In this actionable One Simple Thing episode, I tackle the modern challenge of email addiction that's plaguing knowledge workers everywhere. We've normalized checking messages before breakfast, during meetings, and sometimes even in the bathroom!
This constant reactivity comes with serious costs: increased anxiety, decision fatigue, fragmented attention, and ultimately, lower quality work. As leaders, we're not just managing our own productivity – we're modeling behaviors that our teams will likely adopt.
The solution doesn't require complex systems or productivity hacks. I share four straightforward strategies that have transformed how I handle over 30 emails in under 10 minutes most mornings.
You'll learn how to establish strategic checkpoints throughout your day, implement a quick-response system, block focused time for thoughtful replies, and set clear expectations with colleagues.
The key insight?
Email should serve your priorities, not the other way around.
This small shift delivers outsized benefits:
- reduced stress
- improved focus
- better work quality
- and the powerful example of intentional leadership.
Small steps truly can lead to big changes.
Curious?
🎧 Listen now and take back control of your day...
Test out implementing just one of these strategies this week and notice the difference in your day.
I'd love to hear how it transforms your approach – connect with me on LinkedIn and let me know your results!
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In this episode…
Margaret Heffernan joins the Leading People podcast to challenge our dangerous addiction to certainty and predictability. Drawing from her latest book "Embracing Uncertainty," she reveals why the traditional management approach - forecast, plan, execute - is fundamentally broken in today's volatile world. When the first leg of this three-legged stool collapses, everything else follows.
What makes this conversation so compelling is Margaret's unique perspective, bridging her experience as a CEO with deep research into how creative professionals - writers, musicians, filmmakers, artists - naturally thrive in uncertainty. These creators don't just tolerate the unknown; they actively seek it out as the fertile ground where breakthroughs happen. The stark contrast with today's corporate environments is telling: we're producing highly credentialed professionals who excel at following instructions but freeze when asked to navigate ambiguity.
Margaret offers practical wisdom for leaders wanting to break free from this trap. She examines how WL Gore's elegant three-question innovation framework makes idea development accessible to everyone, why performance management systems often strangle creativity, and how companies can build innovation into their everyday operations rather than relegating it to specialized departments. Her insights on efficiency are particularly provocative.
The conversation takes a fascinating turn when discussing technology and AI.
Margaret cuts through the hype with characteristic clarity, questioning whether these tools will deliver the promised benefits and examining the often-overlooked costs. Her perspective isn't anti-technology but rather a call for technology that genuinely serves human flourishing rather than diminishing it.
Curious?
Whether you're facing uncertainty in your leadership role, struggling with innovation challenges, or simply curious about how to thrive in an unpredictable world, this episode offers both inspiration and practical guidance.
Subscribe to Leading People and join our LinkedIn community to continue the conversation about embracing uncertainty as an opportunity rather than a threat.
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Step into the revolutionary intersection of neuroscience and leadership with Professor Patricia Riddell and Ian McDermott as they shatter outdated brain myths and reveal how understanding neuroscience transforms leadership effectiveness.
Most leaders operate on brain models that are 60-65 years out of date. This knowledge gap isn't just academic – it directly impacts how we develop talent, make decisions, and build organizational capacity.
Patricia and Ian introduce "neuro-effective leadership," a groundbreaking approach that applies cutting-edge neuroscience to practical leadership challenges.
Neuroplasticity emerges as the game-changing concept every leader needs to understand. Leaders who understand neuroplasticity see potential differently – not as a fixed attribute to be measured, but as a capacity that can be systematically developed through the right experiences.
The conversation reveals surprising insights about how our brains handle tasks versus relationships.
We also explore how understanding empathy as a structured cognitive skill rather than a vague "soft skill" provides practical techniques for creating psychological safety while maintaining accountability.
Patricia and Ian's upcoming book "Neuro-Effective Leadership" will be published by Routledge in June 2025, with pre-registration available in May.
Connect with them on LinkedIn to learn about their Applied Neuroscience program (get a special offer) and discover how understanding your brain can transform your leadership capacity.
Curious?
If you want to lead more effectively, build better relationships, and create a leadership style that truly works for you and your teams, this episode is packed with practical neuroscience-backed insights you can apply immediately.
🎧 Tune in now and start leading with more choice, clarity, and confidence!
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Ever found yourself putting off an important task—only to scramble at the last minute?
Procrastination isn’t just about being lazy. It’s a deeply ingrained habit fueled by brain chemistry, energy, and even our personal values. And if you’re in a leadership role, the stakes are even higher.
In this episode of One Simple Thing, we break down:
✔️ Why procrastination happens (it’s not what you think!)
✔️ How our brains trick us into avoiding important work
✔️ What Enjoyment-Performance Theory reveals about our motivation
✔️ Four simple strategies to take back control
✔️ Why managing procrastination isn’t just about time management
Curious?
🎧 Listen now—and stop putting things off for later.
What are you waiting for? 😉
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In this episode…
We challenge traditional views of midlife and explore how this phase can be a powerful transition for leaders.
Aneace Haddad, a former tech CEO and an executive coach with extensive experience, invites listeners to rethink what it means to lead in the second half of life. He examines the cognitive shifts that occur as people enter their 40s and beyond, revealing that this period often marks the emergence of unique leadership superpowers that younger leaders may not yet possess.
Through engaging storytelling and practical advice, Aneace illustrates how leaders in midlife can embrace ambiguity and let go of the need for the granular detail-oriented thinking that served them well in their youth.
Instead, he emphasizes the importance of big-picture strategic thinking, collaboration, and fostering a supportive environment where every team member can thrive.
Aneace's insights shine a light on the positives of aging, reframing the concept of resilience into a joyful and rejuvenating process.
Listeners looking to enhance their leadership approach will find this episode rich in resources and inspiration, encouraging personal reflection and growth.
Whether you are in midlife or simply interested in understanding leadership evolution, Aneace's wisdom will resonate with anyone striving to improve their impact in the workplace.
Curious?
Join us in embracing the beauty of growth at any age, and let’s celebrate the incredible potential that emerges through experience.
Remember to visit Aneace.com to connect with Aneace and explore his work!
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Ever feel like there just aren’t enough hours in the day?
You start with good intentions, but distractions, interruptions, and never-ending demands pull you in every direction. Before you know it, the day is gone - and your most important work is still unfinished.
What if you could reclaim an hour (or more) every single day - without waking up earlier, working longer, or burning yourself out?
In this One Simple Thing episode of Leading People, I share a practical strategy that will help you take back control of your time, boost your focus, and get more done with less stress.
It’s a small change that can have a huge impact.
Curious?
🎧 Listen now and start winning back your time today...
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In this episode:
Unlock the secrets to becoming a "Supercharged Leader" as we chat with leadership gurus Mandy Flint and Elizabeth Vinberg-Hearn.
Promising a unique take on leadership that veers away from traditional HR-driven methods, Mandy and Elizabeth enlighten us with strategies that synchronize personal leadership skills with business goals.
They draw from their rich experiences at American Express, illustrating how self-leadership is crucial for navigating today's fast-paced corporate world. Prepare to explore the six superchargers that could transform your leadership style and elevate your impact.
The conversation takes a deep dive into the qualities leaders need to thrive amidst rapid technological and global shifts. Mandy and Elizabeth discuss the mindset and skillsets that leaders must cultivate to tackle unforeseen challenges, especially those brought on by events like COVID-19.
They also touch upon the evolving role of AI and how leaders can harness collective intelligence to stay ahead. Expect to gain insights into balancing strategic thinking with daily operations and the role of trust in creating high-performing teams in a VUCA world.
For middle managers and leaders transitioning from individual contributor roles, this episode offers invaluable guidance on fostering trust and collaboration.
Learn how to effectively manage your emotional state to influence positive team dynamics and understand the ripple effect of self-leadership.
As AI continues to shape the business landscape, Mandy and Elizabeth stress the importance of continuous learning and adaptability.
Curious?
Listen now to discover how embracing humility and openness to new ideas can prepare you for the future challenges of leadership.
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- Do you ever find yourself saying "Yes" to things that you really don't want to do?
- Do you feel that others sometimes take advantage of your goodwill and helpfulness?
- What if you could unlock the secret to protecting your time and energy by simply saying no?
This week on Leading People it's another One Simple Thing - easy tips and insights that you can implement immediately.
Today, you'll learn the essential art of saying "No" by prioritizing yourself first. By embracing this transformative mindset, young leaders - and seasoned veterans alike - can revolutionize their approach to managing tasks and relationships.
Discover how to assertively decline requests that don't align with your true priorities.
In this episode I share practical techniques to frame your responses confidently, preserving relationships while safeguarding your most important commitments.
Plus, how to say "No" to your boss!
Tune in to each episode of One Simple Thing to learn how small steps can lead to remarkable transformations.
Connect with me on LinkedIn and follow this podcast so you're sure to get our next episode, where we'll continue to uncover simple yet powerful methods to enhance your leadership journey.
Curious?
Listen now to learn this important skill.
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On this episode of Leading People, we promise you’ll uncover the keys to building an exceptional workplace culture with our distinguished guest, Koen Dewettinck, CEO of Great Place to Work Belgium and a professor at Vlerick Business School.
During our conversation, Koen walks us through his fascinating exploration into organizational psychology and shares his insights on creating environments where employees feel truly valued. This episode is your chance to learn how the power of the employee voice can redefine success in any organization.
Great Place to Work is on a global mission to redefine workplace culture, and Koen introduces us to the tools and insights needed to achieve this transformation. From its origins in the U.S. to expanding into 180 countries, including Belgium, we discuss how this pioneering organization measures and enhances workplace culture.
Koen also shares how their evidence-based approach, complemented by workshops and tools, supports organizations in building robust cultures grounded in trust, credibility, and integrity. He offers insights on aligning theory with practice to support continuous growth and highlights the importance of personal development opportunities.
Finally, we learn about how Great Place to Work celebrates exceptional workplaces, showcasing organizations that excel in creating high engagement and a great work environment.
Curious?
Listen now to this insightful conversation that could transform your approach to leadership and organizational culture.
Discover a Great Place to Work here
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- Do you ever feel like your day slips away as soon as you open your email in the morning?
- Do you get to lunchtime and wonder where your morning went?
- Are you struggling to get your important things done every day?
Leading People is the podcast for leaders who want to consistently bring out the best in themselves and others.
These short One Simple Thing episodes have been created with recently appointed managers in mind so you can get off to a flying start as a leader.
And, with the ever-increasing demands of the modern workplace, we can all still learn new things.
If you're feeling challenged at work then I have a game-changing solution for you in this One Simple Thing episode.
And, I've even thrown in a bonus tip for you that can be effective in some situations.
So, tune in, test out this One Simple Thing and witness the transformation it can bring to your day and your leadership journey.
Connect with me on LinkedIn, share your experiences, and subscribe for more insights that will empower you and those you lead.
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Dr Marie-Hélène Pelletier, a renowned psychologist, leadership coach and author of the highly acclaimed book - The Resilience Plan - shares her groundbreaking approach to resilience in this thought-provoking episode of Leading People.
Discover how resilience can be cultivated as a skill rather than just an inherent personality trait. Marie-Hélène explains why resilience is not a trait.
We promise you'll gain valuable insights into building a personalized resilience plan to ward off burnout, especially for high achievers who often miss the early warning signs.
Marie-Hélène's journey from psychology to pioneering resilience research provides a unique backdrop for these strategies, blending psychological insights with business acumen to enhance both work performance and mental health.
Listeners will uncover common misconceptions about resilience and recognize burnout indicators that typically go unnoticed. We emphasize the importance of psychological safety in the workplace, which can nurture open conversations about mental health.
By understanding Marie-Hélène's BEAR thinking model you'll be better equipped to navigate the biases that distort our perceptions. Marie-Hélène's analogy of "don't feed the bears" serves as a memorable guide for avoiding unhelpful thoughts and embracing constructive thinking.
The discussion extends to leadership, where we explore how strategic resilience planning transforms both personal and professional life. High-performing professionals will learn to accurately assess the demands on their energy and align their tasks with personal values for more satisfying outcomes.
We also delve into the vital role leaders play in fostering a resilient organization, particularly by sharing personal strategies to build team trust and psychological safety.
Whether you're a leader or an HR decision-maker, this episode offers essential strategies for you and your team to thrive in today's high-pressure environment.
Curious?
Listen now to learn more!
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This is the podcast for leaders who want to bring out the best in themselves and others.
One Simple Thing
Imagine starting your day with a win that propels you closer to your goals, be it personal well-being, family priorities, or professional milestones.
Tune in, test out this One Simple Thing, and witness the transformation it can bring to your day and your leadership journey.
Connect with me on LinkedIn, share your experiences, and subscribe for more insights that will empower you and those you lead.
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This is the podcast for leaders and HR decision-makers who want to bring out the best in themselves and others.
What if you could unlock the secret to true leadership presence, not through charisma, but by embracing authenticity and intention?
Join us as Caroline Goyder, a TEDx speaker, coach and author, shares her transformative journey from an early career in acting to mastering gravitas, and how you can begin your path toward genuine leadership.
Through her personal stories and insights, discover how failure can be a stepping stone to growth, drawing inspiration from thinkers like Samuel Beckett and Dan Gilbert. Caroline's journey, including her experiences while writing "The Star Qualities", offers valuable lessons on developing effective communication and leading with purpose.
Explore the profound impact of intentionality and storytelling in leadership with Caroline, as we discuss how these elements can shift a leader's presence from doubt to dynamic passion. Gravitas, often misunderstood as mere charisma, is unpacked as a grounded presence aligned with one's values.
- Hear stories of community leaders who embody this quality, serving causes greater than themselves, and reflect on how such leadership transcends personal ambition.
- Be inspired by role models whose stories illustrate the power of leading authentically and with a shared purpose.
- Gain insights into overcoming imposter syndrome in presentations through preparation and presence.
Whether you're looking to cultivate gravitas, enhance your presentations, or simply lead with greater impact, this episode equips you with practical tools and strategies to elevate your leadership journey.
Finally, we preview the Leading People conversation with my next guest, Marie-Hélène Pelletier, author of “The Resilience Plan – A strategic approach to optimizing your work performance and mental health”.
Curious?
Listen now to learn more!
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As we close out the year, Gerry Murray reflects on a powerful inspiration from 2024 that will reshape how you engage with the Leading People podcast in 2025. In just 90 seconds, discover a fresh idea that could transform how you bring out the best in yourself and others.
Curious?
Tune in to find out more!
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In this episode, Malissa Clark, Associate Professor of Psychology at Georgia University in the US and author of: Never Not Working: Why the Always-On Culture Is Bad for Business—and How to Fix It, reveals the surprising truths about busyness and its impact on performance and well-being.
A key takeaway is that workaholism significantly impacts individual health and organizational culture.
Based on her extensive research, Malissa reveals the distinct differences between workaholism and overwork, providing insights into internal and external factors driving these behaviours, along with proactive strategies to combat them.
We cover a lot of ground in this conversation including:
- Defining workaholism versus overwork
- Exploring internal and external drivers of workaholic behaviour
- Examining modern perceptions of busyness and productivity
- Discussing the impact of technology on work-life boundaries
- Highlighting leadership's influence on organizational culture
- Offering actionable individual strategies to manage workaholism
- Stressing the importance of self-care and boundaries in the workplace
Curious?
Join us for this fascinating exploration of the world of work.
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Discover how putting workers first and treating them like customers can transform your business.
In this episode we chat with Stephan Meier, a leading behavioural economist and Columbia Business School professor. Stephan takes us on a journey from Switzerland to his pivotal role at Columbia, sharing insights from his latest book, "The Employee Advantage: How Putting Workers First Helps Businesses Thrive."
This episode uncovers the revolutionary impacts of personalisation and empowerment in employee management, inspired by success stories from companies like Eli Lilly and DHL Express.
Stephan challenges the conventional wisdom that often prioritises customers over employees. By examining the global disengagement epidemic, he argues for a mindset shift towards an employee-centric culture, much like Amazon's customer-centric approach.
Stephan also provides a fascinating exploration of remote work's complexities, the balance between flexibility and collaboration, and how these factors influence workplace motivation and trust.
Real-world examples shed light on how treating employees as valuable assets can lead to enhanced organizational profitability.
Finally, we delve into the future of work, exploring how AI and technology can uplift workplace motivation by reducing mundane tasks and enabling meaningful work.
Stephan offers a compelling vision for leaders aiming to inspire their workforce, emphasizing the importance of seeing employees as customers and strategically using technology to create engaging environments. With insights on leadership styles and the evolving role of AI, this episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to thrive in the modern business landscape.
Curious?
Join us for this insightful episode as we explore why employees are the new customers.
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What if leadership wasn’t just about giving orders, but about fostering innovation and collaboration through learning and development?
In a captivating conversation with Anna Mittelman, Head of the European School of Administration, we explore her transformative journey from HR professional to the leader of the EU’s training hub.
Anna shares her insights on how learning to unlearn is vital in today's rapidly evolving work environment and discusses the pivotal role of job shadowing in bridging talent gaps across EU institutions.
Discover the power of decentralized leadership and collaboration in resource-constrained environments. We explore how distributing leadership responsibilities can foster ownership and enthusiasm among team members, allowing leaders to focus on creating clarity and supporting performance.
We also discuss the unique challenges and opportunities the EU faces with technological advancements, societal shifts, and geopolitical changes, and how leadership programs must adapt to remain relevant.
Curious?
Join us for this insightful episode as we redefine leadership and learning for a future-ready European Union.
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In this new season, I’m excited to bring you more conversations with brilliant authors, organisational experts, and practitioners who shape the world of leadership today. Together, we’ll be exploring everything from the art of self-leadership to creating work cultures that empower people.
So, get ready to challenge your assumptions about leadership and hear from some of the best minds in the field.
Tune into this short preview for a taste of what’s to come and remember to subscribe to Leading People wherever you listen to your podcasts...
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Ever wondered what it takes to make a radical career shift?
My guest, Caroline Dowd-Higgins, did just that, and her journey is nothing short of inspiring.
In this episode, Caroline opens up about her battle with workplace burnout, the pivotal moment that prompted her to leave a demanding executive role, and how she leveraged her transferable skills to find a more fulfilling path.
This conversation is a goldmine for anyone grappling with career stressors or contemplating a major career pivot.
Drawing from her latest book, "Your Career Advantage: Overcome Challenges to Achieve a Rewarding Work Life," Caroline offers practical guidance on navigating career transitions, recognizing red flags in unfulfilling roles, and making informed decisions about staying or moving on.
The episode also explores the transformative power of a resilient work culture. Caroline discusses how company values and flexible work schedules can significantly impact individual and organizational success. And, we look into future work trends and the importance of aligning work schedules with personal productivity peaks.
Caroline also has a special offer for our listeners.
Curious?
Tune in now to this treasure trove of insights and actionable advice for achieving a balanced and rewarding career.
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Please subscribe via the Podcast links aboveEver wondered what drives our seemingly endless engagement with digital tools at work?
Cyberpsychology expert Carolyn Freeman joins us to shed light on this phenomenon and shares her personal journey from the corporate world to cyberpsychology, triggered by her own experiences with digital burnout.
Gain insights into how technology influences our behavior, mental health, and productivity, and learn effective strategies to manage digital stress in the workplace.
Carolyn offers valuable perspectives on mastering technology instead of letting it control you.
Balancing work and personal life has never been more challenging, especially in creative environments.
Discover the significance of managing work-home boundaries and how being constantly connected through emails and messaging platforms can heighten stress levels and impact team dynamics.
Whether you strictly separate work from personal time or blend the two, understanding and embracing your unique work style is essential for maintaining mental health and productivity.
As the workplace evolves, so do our needs for flexibility. Explore varying perspectives on hybrid and remote work and how organisational culture and leadership play crucial roles in implementing successful flexible work policies.
Learn to recognize signs of burnout and practical advice on managing technology use to maintain well-being.
By tailoring work arrangements to fit both individual preferences and team needs, we can create a more supportive and productive work environment. Carolyn explains how to do this. And, she has a special offer for a few lucky people!
Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion that addresses the complexities of modern work life and see how you can enhance the way you use technology.
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- What type of pivotal moment can lead someone to dedicate their career to leadership development?
- Why are qualities like inward soundness and other focus so critical in leadership?
- And how does the quality of leadership impact not just our work, but our overall well-being?
Join us as Tim Spiker, founder of The Aperio and author of "The Only Leaders Worth Following - Why some leaders succeed, others fail, and how the quality of our lives hangs in the balance" shares his riveting journey through the world of leadership development.
Tim delves into the importance of inward soundness and other-focused leadership, revealing how these qualities can significantly enhance the well-being of employees and reshape organisational culture.
Drawing from extensive research and personal experience, Tim discusses how certain qualities are crucial for effective leadership. Listen to real-life stories that illustrate how leaders can unlock greater strategic potential and foster a sense of unity within their teams.
We also explore the broader implications of great leadership, extending beyond the business world to areas like government, civic organizations, and family life.
And Tim shares a transformative tip to enhance your leadership skills.
Whether you're a seasoned leader or just starting out, Tim's wisdom is sure to inspire and guide you on your leadership journey.
Tune in to learn more...
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- What does it take to be the CEO of a leading global company?
- What qualities enable a CEO to bring out the best in themselves and others?
- What can you do, regardless of rank or position, to have a fulfilling career?
These are just some of the topics that I cover in this episode of Leading People.
My guest is Rob Kuijpers.
Rob rose to senior positions within Heinz before first becoming CEO of EMEA for DHL and eventually CEO of DHL Worldwide Express, at the time the most global company in the world.
When the Belgian national airline, Sabena, went bankrupt in 2001, in the aftermath of 9/11, Rob helped set up and became CEO of what is now Brussels Airlines.
Today, Rob is 86 and still active in business. And, he regularly takes part in international tennis competitions for the over 80s!
It's often said that wisdom comes with age. During what turned out to be a fascinating conversation we follow Rob's career path with stories and anecdotes, lessons learned about how to deal with mistakes and failures, and probably more importantly, how to get others to perform at their best.
And, Rob has some great advice for us all on how to have fulfilling careers.
There are so many other valuable nuggets in this conversation that I'll leave it to you to decide what your favourite ones are.
And, remember to follow us on our social media channels and share the podcast with colleagues and friends.
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Join us this week as Brian Moran, acclaimed author and innovator behind the "12-Week Year," challenges us to rethink our traditional views on accountability.
In this eye-opening episode, Brian dives into why seeing accountability as a mere consequence is a misconception that limits potential. Discover the transformative power of true accountability through ownership, choice, and clear commitments.
Whether you're leading a team, managing your own business, or looking to elevate your personal productivity, Brian’s insights will equip you with the tools to achieve more in less time.
Ready to change how you see accountability and success?
Tune in to redefine your approach and unlock a new level of effectiveness and fulfilment.
Discover the 12Week Year
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- What does it take to navigate the complex landscape of modern human resources?
- How can HR professionals foster a culture of innovation while ensuring a deep connection with their workforce?
- And what lessons can we learn from leading HR experts to adapt to the rapid changes in today's corporate world?
In this episode, we sit down with Sébastien Tranchant, an HR leader with a rich background spanning across various industries, including his transformative work at Toyota and Bridgestone.
Today, he is EMEA Head of HR for Manufacturing, Quality and Labour Relations at Bridgestone.
From his unexpected journey into the world of HR to his innovative approach to talent management and leadership, Sébastien talks about the leadership principles that have helped him in his career to date.
He also shares his expert insights on the evolving role of HR in embracing artificial intelligence, fostering a sense of community in remote work environments, and connecting with the aspirations of new generations.
Join us as we uncover the strategies that have made Sébastien an innovator in the HR field, shaping the future of work and the role of human resources in driving organizational success
And remember to follow us on our social media channels and share the podcast with colleagues and friends.
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Please subscribe via the Podcast links aboveHow are you evolving with the shifting dynamics of workplace culture and hybrid work environments?
In this episode, Gustavo Razzetti, author and CEO at Fearless Culture, a culture design firm, shares his revolutionary insights into fostering a thriving company culture in the era of hybrid work.
This episode is a treasure trove for leaders aiming to navigate the complexities of today's work culture. We dissect the essence of creating spaces that not only adapt to the hybrid work model but excel within it, offering strategies for seamless integration and sustained engagement.
During the conversation, Gustavo explores the critical role of clear communication, the challenges of maintaining connection in dispersed teams, and strategies for building an inclusive culture that values every voice. Learn how adjusting leadership styles to be more empathetic and understanding can significantly impact team dynamics and overall productivity.
Delve into this discussion on the future of workspaces, where Gustavo shares his expert predictions and the necessary shifts in mindset to stay ahead. Beyond theory, we look to practical applications within renowned companies like Spotify, Airbnb, and Allstate, extracting lessons from their successful hybrid model implementations.
Join us for an inspiring session and discover how to leverage the unique opportunities that hybrid working presents, ensuring your team not only adapts but thrives.
And remember to follow us on our social media channels and share the podcast with colleagues and friends.
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How are you adapting to the challenges in change management and leadership growth?
In this episode, Eva Maurer, Head of HR Global Development at a prominent automotive services firm, discusses her forward-thinking strategies that drive significant change within the corporate sphere.
Eva describes her journey from traditional HR practices to a more innovative approach that encourages self-exploration, open communication, and collaborative efforts to initiate change. She values resistance as critical feedback and emphasizes the importance of empowering leaders and their teams to customize their approaches to meet specific needs, moving beyond a standardized approach.
This episode offers valuable insights for anyone looking to bolster leadership efficacy in their organizations.
We explore the significance of employee feedback as an indicator of leadership effectiveness, viewing leadership as a role that supports both team achievement and individual wellness. Eva and I delve into the advantages of self-evaluation methods and the Harrison assessment for enabling leaders to reflect and better engage with their teams.
Learn how promoting a culture of ongoing conversation and appreciating employee contributions can lead to a nurturing, high-performance work environment where leaders and their teams thrive together.
As we enter a new digital era, the landscape of leadership training is quickly changing. Our discussion highlights the transition from conventional group training to personalized learning experiences that prioritise peer-to-peer learning and active engagement. Eva shares her experiences in transforming leadership training into dynamic eight-week programs that offer consistent support and practical application.
We also discuss the nuances of HR practices across different cultural settings, ensuring our insights are applicable globally.
Tune in for an enlightening session that will introduce fresh perspectives into your leadership development strategies for the digital age.
And, remember to follow us on our social media channels and share the podcast with colleagues and friends.
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Get the transformative secrets of leadership from people who are re-writing today’s HR.
Your host, Gerry Murray, guides you on a journey through the compelling landscapes of Leadership, HR development, employee engagement, and talent management.
Our latest episode is a treasure trove of insights, featuring the impressive Eva Maurer, who is revolutionising how we approach workplace learning. Say goodbye to outdated teaching methods and hello to collaborative learning that values resistance as a key to enrichment.
Then, Gustavo Razzetti lights up the discussion with vibrant insights on the collective responsibility of creating psychological safety and trust within teams—a must-hear for anyone looking to cultivate a robust and supportive work culture.
Prepare to be inspired as Sébastian Tranchant from the automotive sector shares the delicate art of balancing high performance with a compassionate work culture. The key? Tune in to find out.
And if that's not enough to whet your leadership appetite, Brian Moran returns to challenge everything you thought you knew about accountability, reframing it in a novel way.
This isn't just another leadership podcast; our guests will invite you to reshape your perspective and embrace innovative practices that will elevate your approach to guiding and developing others.
Join us and be part of a community committed to growth and excellence in leadership.
Curious?
Why not head over to your favourite podcast channel and listen to a sample of what's coming up in Season 3.
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Unlock the art of ethical persuasion as we sit down with Simon Horton, an award-winning author and negotiation expert.
Simon reveals his six-step process, based on modelling the approaches used by hostage negotiators, addiction therapists, and billionaires, to change minds and reach their objectives.
His book, Change Their Mind: Six Steps to Persuade Anyone, Anytime, is a treasure trove of practical advice, stories, and detailed models. The power of this approach lies in its ability to forge enduring relationships while achieving the desired outcome.
Simon also provides real-world examples - whether you're trying to negotiate a salary increase or convincing your kids to clean up their toys, his strategies are applicable in numerous scenarios.
Not limiting ourselves to persuasion, we'll also venture into negotiation strategies, exploring the crucial roles of ambition, research, and active listening.
- Learn from a billionaire's story about using ambition to seize opportunities for mutual benefits in deals.
- Discover how research helps in understanding your counterpart, and how active listening opens doors to meaningful conversations.
And, as we tread the path of ethical persuasion, we'll delve into effective communication, focusing on how to maintain the highest ethical standards, and how to avoid the fundamental attribution error.
With Simon's guidance, be prepared to equip yourself with a versatile toolkit and the confidence to aspire big in your goals.
Curious?
So, why not head over to your favourite podcast channel and listen to what Simon has to say...
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- How would you like to be able to consistently bring out the best in yourself and others?
- How could using a coach approach in your daily life bring hidden benefits?
- As a Coach, how could you take your coaching skills to the level of Mastery?
- As a Leader, how could you better look out for the well-being of your people?
These are just some of the many questions we explore in this episode of Leading People.
My guest is Paula King, an award-winning Master Coach, CEO, Coach Trainer and author of Becoming a Master Coach: Learn the Essential Tools, Techniques, and Approaches used by Master Coaches to Create a Successful Coaching Practice.
This episode is about Coaching. This not only includes professional coaches but also anyone who wants to incorporate coaching into their style of leadership be this at work, at home or in the community.
During our fascinating conversation, we touch on a wide variety of topics including:
- The unexpected benefits of coach training
- How to become comfortable with your own discomfort
- How to prepare for a coaching conversation
- How to be the best version of yourself
- How to avoid getting disillusioned as a coach
- Advice on how to attract clients and establish a profitable coaching business
Speaking from the heart and a vast experience, Paula shares with us her wisdom, insights and advice.
And, she has a special offer for some lucky listeners.
Curious?
So, why not head over to your favourite podcast channel and listen to what Paula has to say...
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- Does your organisation produce regular leadership communications content for employees?
- Are your messages actually getting through to the right people?
- And, if they do get through, are they being interpreted and understood as they're intended?
In this episode, I sit down with Communications Consultant, Coach, Trainer and Author Ray Walsh to explore the role of communications in organisations.
Communication skills are seen as a prerequisite for effective Leadership. Yet, as Ray points out, sending a message doesn't mean that it has been received or understood. In fact, the stats that he quotes around email open rates in organisations would suggest that the vast majority of messages are not being processed as intended.
When these messages contain important information related to strategy or change, it's no wonder that Senior Leaders are often frustrated when they visit field offices or factories.
Ray also advocates that communicating is everyone's responsibility in an organisation and not the sole job of one department.
He provides us with essential insights into how to address these challenges and uses examples from his own professional experience to illustrate what can be done, this includes how not getting your communications right can have a negative impact on profitability.
And, stay tuned, because along the way Ray also has a special offer for some lucky listeners.
So, why not head over to your favourite podcast channel and listen to what Ray has to say...
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- Do you want to feel and do better in life?
- Do you want to improve your sleep, diet, exercise, brain health and performance?
- Do you know what your super habits are?
- Do you know what your destructive habits are?
- Do you know how to maintain your super habits and change your destructive habits?
These are just some of the questions that my guest for this episode, Dr Jon Finn, answers.
During our conversation, Jon explains how some habits can serve us very well and how others can be quite destructive. He talks about how his study of neuroscience, behavioural science and psychology, and his work with world champions led him to develop a comprehensive toolbox that anyone can use to fine-tune their brain and supercharge how they live, work and lead.
And, you'll discover Jon's tip about quick tips as well as how to avail of his special offer for you.
So, why not head over to your favourite podcast channel and listen to what Jon has to say...
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- What level of impact and influence do you have at work?
- Indeed, what level of impact and influence do you have in your life in general?
- Are there situations where you wished you had more impact and influence?
In this episode, I chat with Elisabet Vinberg Hearn and Mandy Flint about their books and their work with leaders.
Elisabet and Mandy have worked together for over 20 years. They have a passion for helping leaders, and indeed all of us, develop our impact and influence in the workplace.
During our conversation, Elisabet and Mandy explain the importance of using soft skills to achieve hard results. They emphasise focusing on how to do this rather than on what to do.
Self-awareness around behaviours plays an important role. Using several examples from their work, they explain how our behaviours can bring many benefits and unintended consequences.
And, Elisabet and Mandy have a special offer for you
So, why not head over to your favourite podcast channel and dive in...
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Please subscribe via the Podcast links aboveIn thirty years time, as technology moves forward even further, people are going to look back and wonder why offices ever existed."~ Sir Richard Branson How well have you and your people adapted to remote and hybrid working?
My guest this week is Larry English, President and co-founder of Centric Consulting, a management consultancy that helps firms find solutions to complex digital, business and technology problems.
In the early 2000s, Larry and some like-minded friends founded Centric with a vision to build a remote company with a mission to create a culture of employee and client happiness.
Today, Centric employs over 1000 people.
With all that experience, Larry knows a thing or two about building and sustaining a connected culture with virtual teams and he's captured all of this in his latest book:
Office Optional - How to build a Connected Culture with Virtual Teams
During our conversation we covered a wide range of do's and don'ts of remote working and many other relevant themes such as the four generations in the workforce, remote working tools, virtual and augmented reality, the skills leaders need to be able to manage remote workers, and much more.
And, Larry has a special offer for you
So, why not head over to your favourite podcast channel and dive in...
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Please subscribe via the Podcast links aboveImagine that you're enjoying all the trappings of success, including financial prosperity, when one day you get a call from the Justice Department. They inform you that they have evidence that your financial prosperity comes from dark dealings in the world of international business.
What do you do?
Well, this was what happened to my guest, Richard Bistrong. Despite cooperating with the authorities, Richard ended up spending fourteen and a half months in a US Federal Prison Camp for his crimes. During this period, he had a lot of time for reflection and managed to read over 60 books!
Richard decided to reinvent himself and start a new career advising organisations on how to prevent their people from falling foul of corrupt practices. Along the way, he has won several awards for his work.
It's a classic tale of the poacher turned gamekeeper.
What's all this got to do with Leading People?
Actually, quite a lot!
There's a saying that the fish rots from the head. Leaders bear a huge responsibility when their people get exposed to corruption and, according to Richard, have a duty to ensure that they prepare their people well for situations where they may be tempted to take ethical risks.
In our conversation, he tells his story and explains how to ensure that you or someone you know doesn't get compromised as he did.
Meet your host, Gerry Murray
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Please subscribe via the Podcast links aboveI'm pleased to announce that Season 2 launches in January 2023!
I've already recorded and scheduled the first episodes for the new Season and **I can promise you some fascinating conversations to come.
Listen to this short preview to learn more.**Until then...
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Please subscribe via the Podcast links aboveWe've reached episode 40 of the Leading People podcast!
As so many podcasts fail after only a few episodes, I'm very proud of this achievement. I'm also very grateful to all of you who tune in every two weeks and then promote and share episodes with your friends and colleagues.
So, this is the official end of Season 1 and I'm taking a short break before launching Season 2 in September 2022.
In this short episode, I take a brief look at how to determine whether someone has potential.
Being in the business of helping clients make better talent decisions, this is one of the most pervasive questions that our clients ask us. Yet, as I explain, this is not a simple question to answer.
Many people have contacted me in recent weeks because they're thinking of launching their own podcast. So, I also provide some insights into how to do that.
I've already begun scheduling and recording episodes for Season 2 and I can promise you some fascinating conversations to come.
Until then...
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- Who is responsible for customer experiences in your organisation?
- How do leaders help or hinder the customer experience?
- Why are most organisations designed to deliver lousy customer experiences?
- And, what is a chatty check-out?
These are just some of the many questions my guest, Professor Yves Van Vaerenbergh addresses in this week's show. As an award-winning expert on customer experience, Yves shares with us his insights and tips for how to get it right.
He also answers the million-dollar question about customer experiences...
Whether you're working in an organisation or as an independent or freelance worker there's lots to learn.
So, why not head over to your favourite podcast channel and dive in...
Meet your host, Gerry Murray
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- What role do illusions play in your decision-making?
- How can you challenge your illusions so you can make better decisions?
- How does a manager with hindsight bias prevent his or her team from making good decisions?
For this episode, I sat down with magician, mentalist and keynote speaker, Alex Si, to explore the world of illusions at work. During our conversation, we explore how we create illusions, how we're susceptible to illusions created by others and how we can challenge our illusions to make better decisions.
We also answer the questions above.
Alex has just published his first book on the topic and was keen to explain how his book is different from others on the subject of decision making.
Stay tuned to the end as Alex has a special offer for some lucky listeners.
So, why not head over to your favourite podcast channel and dive in...
Meet your host, Gerry Murray
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Buy Alex's book Cerveau menteur ! - Déjouez les pièges de la prise de décision
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Why do we have a brain? It's not what you think...
How does exercise benefit your brain?
How much of your brain do you use each day?
This week's guest is Gregory Caremans, founder of the Brain Academy which currently has over 400,000 students enrolled in its courses on how to understand and better manage your brain.
The aim of the Brain Academy is to make brain science accessible to as many people as possible in a way that anyone can understand it. Gregory's goal is to demystify the scientific jargon.
In 2020 and 2021 the Brain Academy won several awards for “Most innovative neuroscience & personal development enterprise” and “Excellence in online learning”. Its courses have been featured on such noteworthy platforms as The Economist, CNN, Entrepreneur, and Udemy and its YouTube channel has over 300,000 views.
During our conversation, we touch on some common myths about the brain before getting into how leaders are impacting our brains at work and what can be done to ensure that these are positive impacts. We even explore how some organisation structures may not be the most effective way to get the best out of people.
And, stay tuned to the end because Gregory has an offer for some lucky listeners.
So, why not head over to your favourite podcast channel and dive in...
Meet your host, Gerry Murray
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Check out the Brain Academy's FREE courses
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On the morning of Tuesday, 8th June 2021 I sent an email to this week's guest, Julie Brown. It was an invitation to herself and her husband to be a guest on this podcast. I'd met him on the street a few weeks beforehand just days before he left for an expedition to Greenland and I'd forgotten to ask him.
I never received a reply.
Within hours it became clear why. The news broke that world-renowned polar explorer and leadership guide, Dixie Dansercoer, had fallen through a deep crevice in the ice in Greenland and rescue workers had given up their search for his body.
So, this episode is partly to honour and celebrate Dixie's life. But it is also a celebration of Julie his wife and how she has dealt with this tragedy and given herself permission to thrive. Manyleadership lessons shine through in our conversation.
It's also a love story on three dimensions. The deep love that Dixie and Julie had for one another, their tremendous love of nature and the environment and a profound love of life and humanity.
Dixie and Julie also published several books illustrating how we can efficiently convert professional challenges into successes and how we can surpass personal dilemmas. These themes feature prominently in our conversation.
Therefore, lots to unpack and leadership lessons to be learned...
So, why not head over to your favourite podcast channel and dive in...
Meet your host, Gerry Murray
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Check out Polar Experiences
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What have cornflakes, penicillin, cling film, velcro and post-it notes got in common?
This week's guest is an award-winning author and Head of Learning at the Chartered Institute for Personnel and Development, Andy Lancaster. During our conversation, he answers this question among many others.
Andy also outlines 7 ways in which leaders could leverage mistakes for the better in their organisations, which feature in his latest book
He even explains what we could learn from the Japanese art of kintsugi.
And, if you stay tuned to the end Andy has a special offer for you.
So, why not head over to your favourite podcast channel and dive in...
Meet your host, Gerry Murray
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Connect with Andy Lancaster on LinkedIn and get his special offer
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- Why should we become good at public speaking and what difference could it make to our careers?
- Why do some of us love public speaking and so many of us hate it?
- What is a Public Speaking Monkey, anyway?
- How could some of the issues that we have with public speaking be affecting other aspects of our lives?
These are just some of the questions I explore with this week's guest, author and public speaking expert, Dee Clayton.
Dee has written two books on public speaking and presenting and has also won several business awards for her Public Speaking Monkeys concept and brand.
According to Dee, some people think they're fantastic public speakers and they're not. Others dread the thought of speaking in public but once they overcome certain hurdles they can become great public speakers.
During our conversation we unpack some of the myths about public speaking, the silly things we say to ourselves and others say to us just before we give a presentation, including some well-meant advice that is rarely helpful.
Dee outlines the 3 steps in what she calls the monkey taming process and also provides us with valuable and useful tips for getting better at speaking in public.
So, why not head over to your favourite podcast channel and dive in...
Meet your host, Gerry Murray
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Connect with Dee Clayton on LinkedIn
Check out Dee's company website Simple Amazing Training
Buy Taming your public speaking monkeys
Buy High Performance Presentations
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Please subscribe via the Podcast links above
- Why do organisations need to invest in Internal Communications?
- What is Internal Communications, anyway?
- How do you get Managers onboard with your Internal Communications?
- How do you communicate internally in a Post-covid Hybrid working environment?
These are just some of the questions I explore with this week's guest, author and Internal Communications expert, Liam Fitzpatrick.
During our conversation, Liam explains why he's brought out a revised edition of his latest book, Successful Employee Communications, why the emphasis in the book is on tools, models and best practices rather than theories and why Middle Managers play such an important role in Internal Communications. He also has some useful tips for how to help Managers become better communicators.
So, why not head over to your favourite podcast channel and dive in...
Meet your host, Gerry Murray
Show Links
Connect with Liam Fitzpatrick on LinkedIn
Buy Successful Employee Communications
Make Better Talent decisions with Wide Circle
Please subscribe via the Podcast links above
Would you like to have more influence and get more buy-in and commitment from colleagues or other stakeholders?
Or, perhaps to sell more of your products or services?
Or, to better deal with a low performer on your team?
Or, simply to be a better parent?
This week's guest is Certified Forensic Interviewer and author, Michael Reddington whose new book is called The Disciplined Listening Method.
Michael shares his experiences of forensic interviewing - he also explains what it is - and how this led him to develop the seven core behaviours of disciplined listening which ultimately led to him writing his book, which has just been published.
During our conversation, Michael addresses the questions above and many more and explains how his method goes beyond other techniques such as active listening. He also describes how to apply his seven core behaviours to a wide variety of situations.
So, why not head over to your favourite podcast channel and dive in...
Meet your host, Gerry Murray
Show Links
Connect with Michael Reddington on LinkedIn
Buy The Disciplined Listening Method
Check out Michael's website InQuasive
Make Better Talent decisions with Wide Circle
Please subscribe via the Podcast links above
Do you have high performers on your team?
How would you feel if they went to work for your competitors?
I guess you'd prefer if they stayed and worked with you?
So, how do you create the conditions so people can thrive, enjoy what they're doing and perform at their best?
These are just some of the topics I covered in my conversation with this week's guest, Paul Zak.
Apart from having a TED talk with nearly 2 million views, Paul has written two best-selling books and there's a third one on the way. He is also the founding Director of the Center for Neuroeconomics Studies and a Professor of Economics, Psychology and Management at Claremont Graduate University in California.
His former colleagues included renowned scholars such as the late Peter Drucker and Mihaly Csikszentmihalyi.
Paul is also a co-founder and Chief Immersion Officer of the firm Get Immersion.
During our conversation, Paul explains what he's learned from his extensive research and provides tangible tips and advice that any of us can implement straight away.
So, why not head over to your favourite podcast channel and dive in...
Meet your host, Gerry Murray
Show Links
Connect with Paul Zak on LinkedIn
Buy Paul's book "Trust Factor: The Science of Creating High Performing Companies"Buy Paul's book "The Moral Molecule: How Trust Works"
Check out Get Immersion
Make Better Talent decisions with Wide Circle
Please subscribe via the Podcast links above
Why has coaching become so popular and why do leaders need coaching now more than ever as we emerge from the pandemic?
And what impact has the pandemic itself actually had on leaders?
How has the virtual work environment of the pandemic affected leaders?
These are just some of the questions that I explore with this week's guest - author and Executive Coach, Andrea Lages.
Andrea has been working as a coach for nearly 25 years and has noticed some interesting impacts that the pandemic has had on Leaders and what this means for the future.
She is also the Director of the International Coaching Community (ICC) that has over 15,000 members worldwide.
So, why not head over to your favourite podcast channel and dive in...
Meet your host, Gerry Murray
Show Links
Connect with Andrea Lages on LinkedIn
Buy How Coaching Works
Download theFREE E-Book
Check out the International Coaching Community (ICC)
Make Better Talent decisions with Wide Circle
Please subscribe via the Podcast links above
In recent years you may have come across terms such as Agile, Lean, Self-Organising Teams, Teal Organisations, Non-Violent Communication and Holocracy.
My guest this week is theauthor and consultant Jef Cumps. Jef will not only explain and demystify many of these wonderful terms but will also speak about Sociocracy 3.0 and how the principles of Sociocracy are actually quite familiar to many of us, even though the term Sociocracy may not be used in our workplaces.
A key aspect of Sociocracy is how it can enable an organisation to easily adapt itself to a changing world and Jef will help you understand why and how this works.
He'll also explain the background to his book: Sociocracy 3.0 - The Novel.
So, why not head over to your favourite podcast channel and dive in...
Meet your host, Gerry Murray
Show Links
Connect with Jef Cumps on LinkedIn
Buy Sociocracy 3.0 - The Novel
Request a FREE copy of Jef's book: jef.cumps [at] gmail.com
Check out Sociocracy 3.0
Make Better Talent decisions with Wide Circle
Have you ever felt demotivated or were struggling to get engaged with a new project?
Or, are you managing a team and find that motivating them is an ongoing challenge?
This week's guest is author, coach and NLP trainer, Jeremy Lazarus with whom I took a deep dive into the world of motivation - and not just your own motivation but also the motivation of others.
Jeremy has written 4 books, including one for sports coaches, athletes and players entitled Ahead of the Game. He began his career in the world of finance before realising that his true calling lay in helping people grow and develop and perform at their best. His work with leading sportspeople, e.g. English Premier League goalkeepers, has enabled him to teach others how to apply their mindset for success to other walks of life, including the world of work.
During our conversation, we unpack the role that motivation plays in achieving what we want and how managers and leaders can use this knowledge to build highly motivated teams.
We also explore how choice plays an important part in how we deal with setbacks and how we can ensure that no matter how we define success we don't neglect the financial aspects.
So, why not head over to your favourite podcast channel and dive in...
Meet your host, Gerry Murray
Show Links
Connect with Jeremy Lazarus on LinkedIn
Check out Jeremy's FREE resources on his website
Make Better Talent decisions with Wide Circle
Please subscribe via the Podcast links above
This week's guest is Dr Dan Harrisonthe creator and developer of the Harrison Assessment and Talent Analytics tools.
People who discover these tools often refer to them as the best-kept secret in the HR or Talent world!
Of all the investment decisions that organisations make probably the one that has the least amount of rigour is around people. Yet, the amounts invested in people can be quite significant.
There is a mountain of research out there to show that there is a real problem when it comes to people decision making and that making the wrong people decisions can be very costly to an organisation.
In this episode, you'll discover that there is a robust suite of Predictive Talent Analytics tools out there that will not only reduce the risk of making the wrong talent decisions but that can also ensure that your talent decisions lead to stronger engagement, better retention, higher performance, growth and success.
So, why not head over to your favourite podcast channel and dive in...
Meet your host, Gerry Murray
Show Links
Connect with Dan Harrison on LinkedIn
Check out the Harrison Assessments website
Request a Free Harrison Demo from Wide Circle Performance Solutions
Train in the Harrison Tools with The Paradox Coaching Academy
Please subscribe via the Podcast links above.
My guest this week is fellow Irishman, Paul Davis.
Not only has Paul authored several books but over the past 25 years or more he has advised and worked with many entrepreneurs to help them grow and scale their businesses into multi-million euro enterprises. Along the way, he admits that he has done quite well himself.
However, in this open and candid conversation, Paul reveals why so many successful people are unhappy and struggle with many things including mental health issues. In his experience, it often comes down to having lost their mojo and no longer having a clear sense of purpose.
What he has to say is not only insightful for successful entrepreneurs but applies to anyone who appears to be doing well in their career. It's also extremely relevant to all of you who aspire to being successful, whatever that means for you.
Or, if life has not been so kind to you these past few years you may just discover how to get things back on track and it won't be a case of "fake it til you make it"!
So, why not head over to your favourite podcast channel and dive in...
Meet your host, Gerry Murray
Show Links
Connect with Paul Davis on Linkedin
Check out Paul's Website for free resources
Listen to Paul's Podcast - The Executive Code
To Make Better Talent Decisions Wide Circle Performance Solutions
I'm very humbled by how many people have become regular listeners of this podcast. Based on my research, Leading People currently ranks in the top 20% of podcasts globally in terms of downloads and listeners.
Please subscribe via the Podcast links above.
It began as an experiment in January 2021. I looked at my extensive bookcase one day and wondered how could I bring so much of this wisdom and knowledge to a wider audience.
I realised that I knew many of the authors and subsequently invited them to become guests on the show. It all grew from this seed.
My goal was to create a conversational bounce that gave listeners an insight into who these authors were and how they came to write their books. I wanted to tap into their knowledge and wisdom. And, I also wanted it to be very human and full of humour!
This podcast has become a passion.
I first podcasted in 2005 long before the concept was in the mainstream. That particular podcast didn't last long. The technology to distribute it just wasn't there. However, I realised in 2020 that podcasting would bring together many things that came naturally to me:
- My life as a professional musician, having recorded many studio albums
- My experience in recording studios - understanding the technology
- My love of conversation and my curiosity to learn more from others
- My youth in Ireland listening to some of the best "talk radio" in the world
- My passion for Personal & Professional Development
- My work in Leadership Development
So, a huge shout out to my regular listeners, the amazing guests who helped me get this far and all the great conversations that are to come...
Meet your host, Gerry Murray
Show Links
The Paradox Coaching Academy
Wide Circle Performance Solutions
A while back I came across an intriguing article on the BBC Worklife website. It was written by this week's guest, David Robson.
I later went on to purchase his excellent and extremely well-researched book entitled The Intelligence Trap.
In this conversation, we chat about both the Intelligence Trap and David's forthcoming book The Expectation Effect and David reveals some fascinating insights into how so many smart people make dumb decisions and how to revolutionise your thinking so you can make wiser decisions.
During our conversation, David explains how he came to write his new book, The Expectation Effect, and he shares some of the intriguing insights he gleaned from his research into sleep, exercise, food and much more...
He also provides us with his top tips for how to avoid the intelligence trap and improve your mindset so you can get the most out of the expectation effect.
So, why not head over to your favourite podcast channel and dive in...
Meet your host, Gerry Murray
Show Links
Connect with David Robson on LinkedIn
Connect with David Robson on Twitter
Check out David's website
The Paradox Coaching Academy
Wide Circle Performance Solutions
In December as we approach Christmas and the end of another year many of us start thinking about next year. For quite some people it never goes beyond thinking.
My guest this week is New York Times Best Selling author and consultant, Brian Moran.
I invited Brian onto the show to chat about his results-focused planning methodology, which he calls The 12 Week Year.
I discovered The 12-Week Year myself a few years ago and it has completely transformed how I plan my time and where I focus my efforts. It's one of the reasons that this podcast gets recorded, produced and released consistently on time every two weeks.
During our conversation, Brian explains the key difference that makes the difference between plans that achieve results and those that don't.
He also outlines the key elements of the 12 Week Year toolbox, how to accept that every plan is flawed, why you've got to fail fast to accelerate your success and how to introduce The 12 Week Year in a large organisation.
And, you’ll be pleased to know that you can start a 12 Week Year at any time.
Now, I bet you're curious about what actually is a 12 Week Year and how is it different from other methodologies.
So, let's dive in and find out...
Meet your host, Gerry Murray
Show Links
Connect with Brian Moran on LinkedIn
Connect with Brian Moran on Twitter
Buy The 12 Week Year by Brian P. Moran & Michael Lennington
Free Course Getting Started with the 12 Week Year
The Paradox Coaching Academy
Wide Circle Performance Solutions
In this episode, I chat with Author, HR expert and CEO, Perry Timms, about his books and in particular what he calls Dispersed Leadership.
With the world of work having been turned upside down by Covid, Perry believes that Dispersed Leadership has the potential to transform workplaces.
Perry provides examples of how Dispersed Leadership is already producing results in a variety of organisations and valuable advice on how to explore and introduce it into your organisation. He advocates the benefits for leaders of being open to the concept and how it can actually simultaneously free up more time to be a better leader and grow your people in the process.
Dispersed Leadership is relevant even if you're not in a leadership position. It may help you choose your next employer!
If you're an HR consultant you'll get some useful tips on how to pilot Dispersed Leadership with your clients.
During our conversation, we discuss many topics including the way work is designed so that it ends up demotivating people, the impact of poor management on people's energy and how to raise the profile of HR and its role in organisations.
Let's dive in...
Meet your host, Gerry Murray
Show Links
Connect with Perry Timms on Linkedin
Connect with Perry Timms on Twitter
Transformational HR by Perry Timms
The Energised Workplace by Perry Timms
The Paradox Coaching Academy
Wide Circle Performance Solutions
In this episode I caught up with author and Master Trainer, Lindsey Agness, to chat about change. Lindsey is the CEO of The Change Corporation, a boutique consultancy that provides change management services to organisations.
However, whilst we touch on organisational change and Lindsey provides valuable advice for leaders, our conversation focuses more on personal change and in particular why now - as we emerge from hopefully the worst of the covid pandemic - might be a good time to make changes in your life.
And, during our conversation, you'll get tips and insights from Lindsey on how to go about making these changes.
Meet your host, Gerry Murray
Show Links
Connect with Lindsey Agness on LinkedIn
Connect with Lindsey Agness on Twitter
Check out Lindsey's special offerChange your Life with NLPby Lindsey AgnessThe Paradox Coaching Academy
Wide Circle Performance Solutions
In this episode of Leading People, I sat down with author and Master Coach, Jonathan Reitz, to talk about how coaching changes everything.
In particular, we discuss his latest book, Coaching Hacks, and Jonathan shares his top tips or hacks from his 20 plus years of coaching. These are not just useful for professional coaches but for anyone who aspires to take a more coaching approach to management or even life.
In fact, Jonathan provides an interesting insight into how some simple coaching techniques could transform both your management style and your parenting. And, he provides his top 5 Coaching Questions that anyone could learn and master to get better results.
And, if you stay tuned to the end, he has a special offer for you.
So, why not dive on in...
Meet your host, Gerry Murray
Show Links
Connect with Jonathan Reitz
Check out Jonathan's websiteThe Paradox Coaching Academy
Wide Circle Performance Solutions
In this episode I chat with Systems Thinking expert and the creator of SystemicIQ, Chris Soderquist, to learn why SystemicIQ is necessary for solving complex problems.
He outlines the 6 key skills of SystemicIQ and how to use them. He provides lots of practical examples and also advice on when, and when not, to use SystemicIQ.
He explains what Systems Thinking is and how some organisations think they're doing Systems Thinking but in effect they're not.
Along the way, we discuss diverse topics such as the current UK truck driver scarcity problem, climate change, health care, parenting, incentivisation programmes, and much more. Chris demonstrates how SystemicIQ can help us better understand these challenges and find workable solutions that don't create negative unintended consequences.
He has some sound advice for leaders to ensure that they diagnose problems in the right way. Misdiagnosis of a problem not only doesn't lead to solving the problem but often makes the problem worse!
Meet your host, Gerry Murray
Show Links
Connect with Chris Soderquist
Check out Chris' websiteFinding Leverage VideoView Chris' take on the UK Lorry Driver crisis
Wide Circle Performance Solutions
In this episode, I chat with author and leadership expert, Yene Assegid about leadership and her new book Leading with Heart. Along the way, she talks about the world-famous leaders she's met, what qualities set them apart - qualities that many of us have or could develop - and why she titled the book Leading with Heart.
She tells us about her decision to set up a foundation dedicated to helping young women from less privileged backgrounds acquire life skills to set them on the right path.
And, she provides us with her top 5 tips so we can all start Leading with Heart today.
Meet your host, Gerry Murray
Show Links
Connect with Yené Assegid
Check out Yené's Foundation Programme for Young Women
Leading with Heart by Yené Assegid
Wide Circle Performance Solutions
In this episode, I caught up with author and Master Trainer of NLP, David Shephard. We covered a lot in our conversation with the central theme being understanding Inner and Outer Leadership and why this has become so important in a post-Covid era.
He also reveals what he believes to be the ultimate life skill.
If you've been thinking of going on a Leadership skills course then you might want to listen to this podcast first. If you're currently struggling with life or work's challenges you'll also get a lot out of what David has to say. Even, if you're a parent, there's something in this for you. And, as a successful entrepreneur, David has some sound advice for anyone who thinks it might be time to rethink or reimagine their career...
David is the co-author of the book Presenting Magically and runs excellent training courses including one called Presenting Magically, which contains all the secrets of the top Keynote presenters.Meet your host, Gerry Murray
Show Links
Connect with David Shephard
Check out David's courses at The Performance Partnership
Presenting Magically by David Shephard & Tad James
Wide Circle Performance Solutions
How do you cope when faced with complexity and constant change at work?
Well, you might be surprised to discover that a lot of the answers lie in the world of jazz. My guest for this episode is Frank Barrett, Professor of Organisational Behaviour and Management at the US Naval postgraduate school in Monterey, California who is also an accomplished jazz pianist.
In his insightful book,Yes to the Mess: Surprising Leadership Lessons from Jazz, Frank outlines a framework of seven principles gleaned from how jazz musicians play together that can help make us better leaders and team members and lead to greater innovations in our organisations.
It turns out that Duke Ellington and Miles Davis can teach us a lot about Leadership!
Meet your host, Gerry Murray
Show Links
Connect with Frank Barrett
Yes to the Mess: Surprising Leadership Lessons from Jazz by Frank Barrett
Wide Circle Performance Solutions
In this episode, I chat with Leadership Expert and Executive Coach Andrea Dannerabout her contribution to the book: The Door to Inner Happiness: Secrets from Around the World for When Everything’s Going Wrong.
Although conceived pre-Covid, The Door to Inner Happiness reveals powerful strategies from around the world for bouncing back when everything’s going wrong. The book contains the stories of regular people from all over the world who have found ways to turn horrendous situations into opportunities and new possibilities.
Andrea's chapter is entitled Turning Performance Pressure into Workday Pleasure. During our conversation, she explains how a daily sense of overwhelm forced her to re-examine her life and make some changes for the better.
She provides lots of insights and tips for all of us.
Meet your host, Gerry Murray
Show Links
Andrea Danner at AD Leadership
The Door to Inner Happiness: Secrets from Around the World for When Everything's Going Wrong with contributing author Andrea Danner
Wide Circle Performance Solutions
For this episode I sat down with Executive Coach and author of no less than 17 books, Joseph O'Connor, to talk about his latest book, Coaching the Brain - Practical Applications of Neuroscience to Coaching.
During our conversation, Joseph explains why he writes books on topics that interest him and shares many fascinating insights about how our brains work so that we can all begin to coach our own brains right away.
Joseph began his career as a guitar teacher and got into Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) to explore how to help his students perform better. Today, apart from his work as an Executive Coach he is also the co-founder of the International Coaching Community (ICC), which boasts over 15,000 coaches as members worldwide. The ICC celebrates its 20th birthday in 2021.
So, whether you're a coach, currently being coached, thinking about getting yourself a coach or just simply curious about how to coach your own brain there's something here for you.
Meet your host, Gerry Murray
Show Links
Joseph O'Connor at Coaching the Brain
Joseph's Blog and Videos
Wide Circle Performance Solutions
In this episode, I chat with author and learning & development expert, Stella Collins, to discover how our brains learn best.
The Learning Organisation expert, Peter Senge, once wrote: Taking in information is only distantly related to real learning. It would be nonsensical to say, "I just read a great book about bicycle riding—I’ve now learned that.”
In order to design and deliver effective learning and development initiatives, it's essential to understand how our brains process and retain information. During our conversation, Stella provides insights into how our brains learn best and tips on how to improve our ability to retain and apply our learning.
Whether you work in HR, as a Trainer/Coach/Consultant or you're a Leader in an organisation what Stella has to say is relevant, timely and important.
Meet your host, Gerry Murray
Show Links
Stella Collins at StellarLabs
Neuroscience for Learning and Development by Stella Collins
Wide Circle Performance Solutions
Many people in the western world can remember where they were on 9/11 when the aeroplanes hit the Twin Towers in New York but can you remember where you were on 22nd March 2016?
My guest in this episode will never forget where she was on the morning of the 22nd March 2016.
Karen Northshield was standing within meters of the first suicide bomber at Brussels airport. Her life was changed in an instant. In fact, according to the medical experts who assessed her condition, she wouldn't survive. She was given almost zero chances of living. But, nonetheless, she did survive.
Today, she's rebuilding her life. She's written a book and in this conversation, she will share with you how to be more resilient.
In 2014-2015, I worked with Karen as her coach when she realised her dream of leaving her admin job and setting up her own fitness coaching business. She was so driven, so committed and so passionate about making a difference in the world.
Today, despite what she's been through, that drive, that commitment and that passion are still there.
It's a remarkable story and one worth listening to...Meet your host, Gerry Murray
Show Links
Karen Northshield at Karen Northshield
Dans le souffle de la bombe/Weggenblazen door de bom by Karen Northshield
Karen on Facebook
Wide Circle Performance Solutions
In this episode, I chat with Susan Popoola about her new book "Male Perspectives on The Value of Women at Work". What Susan has to say is not just relevant for women or men but for every one of us.
Along the way she explains how pay inequality can be inadvertently created by women, how your current salary should not affect what you're truly worth and how men prefer to choose other men for certain roles. She highlights how a woman's value and potential can be viewed way beyond the workplace and how many men fail to recognise and acknowledge qualities that women bring to any role.
She breaks the research for her book into 3 key areas of insights and provides practical tips for both women and men on how to appreciate and enhance the value of women at work...
Meet your host, Gerry Murray
Show Links
Susan Popoola at Mosaic World
Male Perspectives on the Value of Women at Work by Susan Popoola
Wide Circle Performance Solutions
In this episode, I chat with Dr Ina Weinbauer-Heidel to find out what makes training really work.
We explore her 12 Levers of Training Effectiveness under three key themes.
Ever wonder why some trainings make a real difference and others appear to be a complete waste of time?
It's not what you think!
In our conversation, we begin to unpack the answer to this question and Ina provides some fantastic insights and tips for trainees, trainers, learning & development professionals and managers/supervisors in organisations.
Meet your host, Gerry Murray
Show Links
Dr Ina Weinbauer-Heidel at the Institute for Transfer Effectiveness
What Makes Training Really Work by Dr Ina Weinbauer-Heidel
Wide Circle Performance Solutions
In this episode, I chat with Author and Crisis Expert, Caroline Sapriel.
The Covid pandemic has given us all a first-hand experience of a crisis unfolding before our very eyes. It's no longer something happening "over there", but in our own daily lives. In times of crisis, we turn to our leaders to steer us through.
But, what if they let us down?
In this informative discussion, Caroline explains how leaders can prepare for crisis events and what qualities they need to have to be able to navigate through them when they do occur. She highlights that a crisis is not just a bad week at the office, that the term "crisis management" is something of a misnomer, and that there's a difference between a crisis and a reputation meltdown.
Using references to pears, accordions, sailing boats and more Caroline explains how to approach a crisis situation, how to organise your people to deal with it and what hard and soft skills leaders (and indeed anyone working with them) need.
And, she explains why women may even have an edge over men when it comes to these skills.
When there's a crisis it seems we all need to step up and do our bit.
She ends by explaining how the Covid pandemic could've been handled so much better...
Meet your host, Gerry Murray
Show Links
Caroline Sapriel at CS&A
25 Years of Crises in Review: The Good, The Bad and The Truly Ugly by Caroline Sapriel and Dirk Lenaerts
Wide Circle Performance Solutions
In this episode, I chat with Author, Leadership Coach, NLP Trainer and fellow Harrison Assessments Managing Partner, Pat Hutchinson.
Pat explains how she has used her NLP skills and the Harrison Paradoxes to help Leaders get REAL insights into themselves and those they work with.
Citing examples from her extensive work she provides many tips on things that Leaders and indeed anyone can implement immediately.
She also explains why a "sheep dipping" approach to Leadership Development rarely works.
Meet your host, Gerry Murray
Show Links
Pat Hutchinson at Quadrant1
Brilliant NLP by Pat Hutchinson and David Molden
Wide Circle Performance SolutionsThe Paradox Coaching Academy
In this episode, I chat with author and communications expert Sheila Parry about her new book:
Take Pride - How to Build Organisational Success Through People
While the concept of being proud of our work is something that many people can identify with, PRIDE is actually a mnemonic for a framework that Sheila developed over many years of working with organisations, running her own successful Internal Communications agency (The Blue Ballroom) and carrying out independent research.
Do they know who you are?
This is a core sentiment running through our conversation and Sheila expands upon it from different perspectives. She provides insights, examples and tips that both leaders and followers can use to better understand and improve their experiences at work.
In particular, leaders can learn more about the impact they have on the experiences of their people and why communicating effectively is not an event but a continuous journey. For employees in general Sheila provides lots of food for thought about the meaning of work in today's hectic digital age. And, she's got some sound advice for HR Professionals too.
Meet your host, Gerry Murray
Show Links
Sheila Parry at Take Pride
Take Pride by Sheila Parry
Wide Circle Performance Solutions
In this episode (recorded in December 2020) I chat with leading author and collaboration expert, Jim Tamm.
Collaboration has become such an essential component in an organisation's success, yet still many people struggle to collaborate effectively. Online tools alone will not work without a collaborative mindset, skills and behaviours.
Drawing on his research and extensive experience, Jim provides us with insights and tips on how to create and embed a collaborative culture in your organisation.
He also reveals what's new in the 2nd edition of his book Radical Collaboration.
Meet your host, Gerry Murray
Show Links
Jim Tamm at Radication Collaboration
Radical Collaboration by Jim Tamm and Ron Luyet
Wide Circle Performance Solutions
This week I sat down with leading author and consultant, Craig Weber, to chat about Conversational Capacity and three critical practices that help you develop this.
Craig highlights many essential skills and provides practical tips that individuals and teams can apply immediately to get better at those tough conversations that life throws at us from time to time.
Along the way we talk about sweet spots, cognitive cartography, dancing elephants, dojos and much more...
Meet your host, Gerry Murray
Show Links
Craig Weber at Weber Consulting Group
Conversational Capacity by Craig Weber
Influence in Action by Craig Weber
Wide Circle Performance Solutions
How do you go from being a corporate lawyer to being a successful Executive Leadership Coach?
Author and Leadership Coach, Rebecca Watson shares the experiences that led her into coaching and how she's discovered some of the secrets to helping Executives succeed in the world of Leadership.
Rebecca has some useful advice for leaders about how to develop self-awareness, improve engagement, use coaching in motivating your teams and how to spot burnout and intercept it before it happens.
Meet your host, Gerry Murray
Show Links
Rebecca Watson at RebeccaWatsonLeadership
Conscious Leadership by Rebecca Watson
Wide Circle Performance Solutions
In this episode (recorded in December 2020) I chat with leading Author and Master Negotiations Trainer, Simon Horton, about negotiations and negotiating.
During our conversation, Simon demystifies negotiating. He says that negotiating is so pervasive in our world today that we're actually negotiating all the time. Negotiation is not some 'dark art' or just the purveyance of big business, international trade deals or Brexit. In fact, one of Simon's mantras is "get good at negotiation, get good at life"!
We delve into his book The Leader's Guide to Negotiation: How to Use Soft Skills to Get Hard Results (The Financial Times) and explore his three-stage model of negotiation. Did you know that there's more to negotiation than a conversation and an agreement?
Throughout, Simon draws on examples from both leadership and personal contexts where knowing how to negotiate enables you to grow, advance and achieve your goals, in a way that preserves relationships. He provides valuable tips that anyone can test out for themselves.
You can buy Simon's books on Amazon and at other reputable bookstores. Links to his website are below and I'm sure he'd love to connect with you on LinkedIn - just mention this podcast.
Meet your host, Gerry Murray
Show Links
Simon Horton at Negotiation Mastery
Wide Circle Performance Solutions
A lot has been written about how organisations are being challenged by macro paradoxes and that the 'solution' to these challenges isn't a linear approach to problem-solving. It's more about managing paradoxical situations than trying to solve them.
If organisations are going to deal with these macro paradoxes then a question arises around the challenges leaders have in managing a range of paradoxical behaviour choices that enable them to do that.
In this episode, I sit down with Author, Master Trainer and Leadership Expert Rick Tate to discuss his new book, Adaptive Capacity, and how developing this ability is essential if leaders are to successfully guide organisations in a paradoxical world.
And, these self-leadership insights and lessons can be applied to many aspects of our lives.
Meet your host, Gerry Murray
Show Links
Rick Tate at Impact Achievement Group
The Paradox Coaching Academy
Wide Circle Performance Solutions
In this short episode, you'll learn more about Leading People and why you might want to subscribe to this podcast.
- Who will you meet?
- What will you learn?
- What makes this podcast unique?
Hit the subscribe button to ensure that you're informed when new episodes land.
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Meet your host, Gerry Murray