Zoë Routh Leadership Podcast

My guest today has an incredible track record in technology and innovation, is a 2 x author and entrepreneur who bridges the gap between hardware and software. Ajay Malik is the driving force behind Secomind, a forward-thinking company dedicated to incorporating AI seamlessly into products, workflows, and customer support processes.  In our far reaching conversation we attempt to answer the question of, where do leaders start with AI? We’re exploring general principles and good practices, how to identify where AI can have an impact in business and what that might look like. We’re not talking about job elimination, but instead exciting things like efficiency, exploration and experimentation!  Shownotes See more at: http://www.zoerouth.com/podcast/leadership-principles-ajay-malik   Key Moments  Planet Human: Exciting developments in the realm of ‘space farming’ happening in Melbourne right now!  Planet Zoë: Bali, Olympus Bound - pre-orders available now - and hitting the Australian Alps trail.  Getting Started with AI in Business (00:02:24) Addressing the question of how to start integrating AI into business practices. Ajay Malik's Journey into Computer Science and AI (00:04:11) Ajay Malik shares his journey into computer science and AI. Principles for Integrating AI into Business (00:05:58) Discussion about the principles to consider when integrating AI into business practices. Avoiding a Cost-Cutting Approach to AI (00:07:01) Exploring the misconception of starting AI integration with a focus on job elimination. Selecting AI Solutions for Business (00:10:48) Guidelines for curating and finding the right AI solutions for specific business needs. Platform Approach for AI Integration (00:11:36) Emphasising the importance of a platform approach for AI integration and data security. Centralised AI Platform (00:16:40) Discussion about the need for a centralised AI platform to manage multiple tools and applications. Future of Centralised AI Solutions (00:19:01) Exploring the potential for centralised AI solutions and the development of such platforms. Security Concerns with Centralised AI (00:20:15) Addressing the security concerns associated with centralised AI platforms and the need for encryption. Barriers to AI Adoption (00:22:54) Challenges leaders face in adopting AI, including fear of job elimination, scepticism, and uncertainty about where to start. Starting with Small AI Projects (00:27:18) Advises starting with small AI projects, using the "t-shirt sizing" approach, and ensuring measurable benefits. Examples of AI Implementation (00:29:52) Real-life examples of AI implementation in customer support, operations, and product improvement. Leadership Tip: Enabling Team Success (00:36:41) The importance of enabling team success and serving as a reverse boss to support and empower team members. Future Technology: Brain-Computer Interface (00:35:13) Desire for a brain-computer interface for communication and control, leveraging brainwaves for interaction. Leadership Book Recommendation (00:39:05) Recommendation of "Leaders Eat Last" by Simon Sinek as a favourite leadership book. The future of AI and its accessibility (00:40:55) Discussion on the impact of AI on society, concerns about the accessibility of AI technology to all individuals. Technology and its impact on society (00:42:49) Exploration of the impact of technology on society, considerations for ensuring technology benefits all individuals. The potential of AI to improve productivity and efficiency (00:44:25) Discussion on how AI can enhance productivity, efficiency, and reduce costs, with a focus on reaching individuals at all socio-economic levels. Considerations when implementing AI (00:47:25) Exploration of criteria for evaluating AI solutions, including centralised platforms, privacy, security, explainability, and ethical principles.  

This week I have two guests on the podcast: Jason Walker and Rey Ramirez, the innovative minds behind Thrive HR Consulting. Jason has a background in re-engineering workforces and Rey comes from the world of mergers and acquisitions, together they are at the vanguard of using AI to streamline HR.  We dive deep into the intersection of artificial intelligence and human resources, exploring cutting-edge tools that are reshaping how we approach everything from employee engagement surveys to recruitment processes. Imagine AI providing real-time data analysis and creating interactive survey experiences – it's happening now, and we're discussing the implications. If you’re looking for actionable insights on responsibly harnessing AI - this is the place.  Shownotes See more at http://www.zoerouth.com/podcast/leadership-perspectives-thrive-HR Key Moments  Planet Human: Reflecting on We Work’s Adam Newman’s erratic journey now he’s in the news again wanting to buy back his co-working business.  Planet Zoë: As you listen to this, Zoe is busy bushwalking the Australian Alpine Walking Trail, a 15 day hike of 240km! While that’s happening there’s goodies galore for those who pre-order Olympus Bound - get the paperback or the eBook on Amazon (please email your receipt to get your goodies).  Introduction of Jason Walker and Rey Ramirez (00:03:56) Zoe introduces Jason Walker and Rey Ramirez, co-founders of Thrive HR Consulting, and their expertise in AI tools for HR processes. Getting Started in HR Processes with AI (00:05:03) Jason and Rey talk about their backgrounds and transition into consulting, focusing on innovation and client satisfaction. The Latest Tools and Strategies in HR and AI (00:08:27) Discussion on the current excitement around AI in HR and the challenges of implementing AI tools in organisations. Interactive Employee Engagement Surveys with AI (00:16:07) The benefits of AI-enabled surveys, including interactive and empathetic interactions with employees, and the potential for use in various organisational functions. Security Concerns Related to AI Voice Technology (00:20:52) Discussion about security issues, including the potential for deepfake voice cloning and the need for robust security features in AI tools. Hurdles and Considerations for AI Implementation (00:21:55) Obstacles and considerations for leaders when selecting and implementing AI tools, including planning and ethical use. AI Strategy and Employee Impact (00:22:13) Planning an AI strategy, ethical considerations, and addressing employee displacement concerns. Guardrails and HR Leadership in AI Implementation (00:24:30) The importance of setting policies, piloting AI tools, and HR leadership in implementing AI for efficiency and profitability. Independent Review and Certification for AI Tools (00:33:44) The need for independent review and certification of AI tools to ensure ethical and responsible use. HR Leaders and AI Technology (00:44:29) The importance of having an honest discussion with the c-suite about AI and building a strategy around AI technology. Considerations Before Implementing AI (00:46:43) Advice for HR leaders on hypothetical scenarios, guardrails, and staying informed about technology trends. Future of Leadership and Technology (00:48:21) Recommendations for blogs, podcasts, and discussions on the intersection between technology and humans in the workplace.

We are all about the pursuit of workplace happiness this week with my guest Lori-Ann Duguay.   LorAnn is the owner and founder of People Powered Solutions, and the author of The Happiness Factor, a delightful book filled with actionable insights for creating happy cultures drawn from Lori-Ann’s extensive experience in the HR space.  She shines a light on the 10 fundamental needs of employees that are key to fostering a joyful and productive work environment. We discuss how effective communication and a robust onboarding process are not just nice-to-haves but essential for long-term success. The heart of our conversation centred on the importance of purpose, how as leaders we demonstrate and communicate purpose in a way that resonates across the organisation. That’s a big ask but Lori-Ann’s insights make it feel achievable for all. Press play for a hit of happiness!    Shownotes See more at http://www.zoerouth.com/podcast/leadership-strategies-lori-ann-duguay Key Moments  Planet Human: The Intersection of Social Responsibility and Free Speech on Twitter/X Planet Zoë: Zoë is still in Bali, writing away making good progress on her fourth novel, tentatively called Olympus Rising. Olympus Bound is available for pre-order now.  **Lori-Ann Duguay's Career Journey (00:04:48)** Lori-Ann Duguay discusses her transition from a large organisation to HR consultancy and her mission to create happy and productive workplaces. **Choosing Happiness as a Focus (00:07:17)** Discussion on why happiness was chosen as the main focus in Lori-Ann's book and business. **Research for the Ten Happiness Factors (00:09:54)** Insight into the research process and the identification of the ten fundamental needs for employee happiness. **Importance of Effective Communication (00:13:11)** The essential role of communication in ensuring message interpretation and understanding in the workplace. **Secrets to Successful Onboarding (00:14:56)** The significance of a successful onboarding process and the impact on employee retention and success. **Maintaining Purpose in the Organisation (00:20:34)** Discussion on the importance of maintaining purpose in the organisation and making new employees feel welcomed and part of the team. **Purpose-driven leadership (00:20:58)** Discussion on keeping purpose at the forefront of daily tasks and how it drives motivation and resilience. **Conveying purpose (00:22:10)** Specific ways to convey purpose, such as storytelling, visual displays, and involving the team in the process. **Growth plans (00:26:13)** The importance of growth plans in mapping out career trajectory and skill development within the organisation. **Vertical and horizontal development (00:32:54)** Exploring the significance of both vertical and horizontal development in leadership and skill enhancement. **Use of AI in business (00:34:36)** Leveraging AI for administrative tasks and maintaining brand consistency in content creation. **Best leadership tip (00:36:56)** The importance of being human as a leader, emphasising vulnerability and empathy. **Lack of accountability in the workplace (00:37:22)** Highlighting the challenge of lack of accountability and its impact on organisational culture. **Thumbs up for a remarkable leader (00:38:11)** Acknowledgment of an exceptional leader's approach to employee engagement and visibility. **Favourite leadership book (00:39:52)** Recommendation of "Five Dysfunctions of a Team" for understanding high-performing team behaviours. **Starting workplace culture transformation (00:42:30)** The need to assess the current state using tools like the "Happiness Factor" culture check. **The 10 needs assessment (00:42:55)** Understanding the 10 needs and their delivery within the company, identifying areas for improvement and investment. **Assessing the employee experience (00:42:55)** Evaluating the current employee journey, touchpoints, and fulfilment of the 10 needs at various stages. **Key takeaways on leadership and culture (00:44:39)** Reflection on growth paths, buddy system for onboarding, and creating defining leadership moments.

My guest this week, Nadeem Ahmad, believes that mindset is everything. He's a testament to how shedding limiting beliefs can unlock our true potential and provides powerful insights into how we can create a growth mindset. Nadeem is a visionary tech leader who has taken his extensive experience as a CTO and pivoted to helping entrepreneurs and start-ups to embrace innovation and technology. He shares his leadership journey, from burnout to bouncing back, and insights from his fantastic book, Becoming an Innovation Navigator. We explore how innovation isn't just for products or services – it's for personal growth too.  So, are you ready to foster a culture of innovation, embrace a growth mindset, and navigate the exciting journey of curiosity and learning?    Shownotes See more at: http://www.zoerouth.com/podcast/leadership-innovation-nadeem-ahmad   Key Moments  Planet Human: Democracies have been shrinking and authoritarianism has been on the rise - this is problematic because abuse of power is rife.  Planet Zoë: I’m on a writer’s retreat in Bali as my husband takes part in his company’s conference. A change of scene is so inspiring!  **Introduction to Nadeem Ahmad (00:03:29)** Nadeem Ahmad, with three decades of experience in technology, discusses innovation and leadership, and his book "Becoming an Innovation Navigator." **Nadeem's journey to innovation (00:04:33)** Nadeem shares his career journey, burnout, and transition to the entrepreneurial world, offering insights into his personal and professional experiences. **Challenges of embracing innovation (00:07:21)** Leaders struggle with innovation due to limiting beliefs and the need for a growth mindset. **Innovation as a personal journey (00:11:10)** Nadeem emphasises that innovation is not just about business and technology; it's about personal growth and human interactions. **Unlocking your inner leader (00:12:23)** The importance of leadership in driving innovation, focusing on inspiring and understanding human needs to facilitate smoother innovation processes. **Overcoming uncertainty in innovation (00:15:43)** Nadeem discusses the need to balance innovation and uncertainty, emphasising the importance of a growth mindset, informed decisions, diversified projects, and a culture that embraces failure as a learning opportunity. **Curiosity and innovation (00:18:53)** Exploring the role of curiosity in innovation, drawing parallels with children's curiosity and its potential to alleviate uncertainty in the business context. **The evolution of innovation (00:19:47)** Discussion on fostering a culture of curiosity, experimentation, and rewarding failure in businesses. **Understanding innovation (00:20:28)** Comparison of large-scale organisational transformation and small-scale mindset-based innovation. **Consolidation vs. constant improvement (00:23:32)** Debate on the need for stability versus continuous improvement in organisations. **AI's growth and impact (00:26:35)** Explanation of the reasons behind the booming growth of AI, including Moore's Law, global data expansion, plummeting training costs, and increased global investments. **Approach to AI and experimentation (00:28:51)** Advice on approaching AI, understanding customer needs, aligning with business goals, and keeping up with trends. **The guardian archetype (00:40:03)** Explains the role of the guardian archetype in maintaining traditions and balancing innovation in leadership. **The herald and threshold guardian (00:40:03)** Describes the roles of the herald and threshold guardian in Joseph Campbell's hero's journey and their relevance in contemporary workplaces. **Guardians as catalysts for achievements (00:42:19)** Discusses how guardians can serve as catalysts for great achievements and the importance of preserving values whilst being cautious in innovation and progress.

Are you listening to what your body is telling you? And what has that got to do with how you show up as a leader? My guest, somatic leadership expert and educator Dr. Pavini Moray, and I explore how tuning into the body's signals can guide better decision-making, boost leadership empathy and prevent burnout. Our conversation also covers the significance of creating trauma-informed workplaces and developing skills to process triggers. I love this idea of the body as a continuous source of wisdom and insights. Helping us to process what’s going on internally and giving us little external signals - a tightening of the shoulders, a clench of the jaw, a shallow breath.  What’s happening below our necks? Let’s find out!   Shownotes See more at http://www.zoerouth.com/podcast/somatic-leadership-pavini-moray Key Moments  Planet Human: What does Microsoft’s market capitalisation valuation of $3 trillion tell us about where wealth and power - unelected - really lives?  Planet Zoë: Embarking on an outdoor experiential program with emerging leaders in the science world - very cool! Continuing to mull global power dynamics and how that will influence this year’s writing, fiction and nonfiction.  Introduction to Somatic Leadership and Dr. Pavini Moray (00:04:27) Bringing the Body into the Conversation (00:06:40) Discussion on the importance of paying attention to the body's signals and incorporating the body in leadership and decision-making. Understanding the Body's Signals as a Source of Wisdom (00:08:42) Exploration of different signals the body provides. Practising Somatic Awareness and Interpreting Body Signals (00:11:05) Insight into the process of practising somatic awareness, cultivating curiosity, and interpreting body signals for better decision-making. Impact of Ignoring Body Signals and Potential for Stress and Burnout (00:16:09) Discussion on the consequences of ignoring body signals, leading to stress, burnout, and the importance of paying attention to early signs of burnout. Personal Experience and the Importance of Paying Attention to Body Signals (00:19:40) Personal experience shared by Zoë about the impact of ignoring body signals and the shift in mindset after going through a significant health event. Stepping into Leadership (00:20:49) Exploring the impact of stepping into a leadership role and holding power in an organisation. Somatic Awareness and Power (00:22:02) Understanding the concept of holding power and learning to feel its impact on others through somatic awareness. Listening and Empathy (00:28:08) Understanding the role of deep listening and empathy in embodying power and creating human connection in leadership. Trauma-Informed Workplace (00:31:28) Recognising and addressing trauma in the workplace, creating a culture of consent, and developing skills to handle triggers and responses. Technology and Empathy (00:38:57) Exploring the potential of technology to enhance empathy and somatic practices, and its impact on human potential and love. Avoiding Pain and Repair (00:42:57) Discussion about avoiding pain and repairing relationships, and the tendency to sweep aside difficult questions. Understanding Personal Power (00:47:04) Dr. Pavini Moray emphasises the importance of recognising personal power and influence, and the impact of each individual's actions. Somatic Leadership Practices (00:50:24) Zoë Routh discusses the importance of somatic practices, such as body scans and breathing exercises, for centred leadership and compassionate responses.

My guest this week is the insightful Russel Lolacher, a fellow Canadian with a background steeped in communications and leadership before an employee experience epiphany in 2018 ultimately led to the creation of his fantastic podcast, Relationships at Work.  Russel shares his wisdom on fostering better organisations through stronger relationships. He takes us on his personal journey into the realm of relationship building at work, highlighting the power of personalisation, connecting work to value, and empowerment. It's all about creating a workplace culture that thrives on positive connections. We delve deep into how power dynamics and leadership styles influence workplace relationships and culture. Russel underscores the responsibility that comes with power, advocating for leaders to be more accessible and engaged. It's a call for intentional and meaningful interactions—something every leader should hear. Shownotes See more at http://www.zoerouth.com/podcast/leadership-relationships-russel-lolacher Key Moments  Planet Human: OpenAI has showcased Sora, a text to video tool that looks like it has huge potential to democratise media production. Planet Zoë: Reflecting on the Leadership Conclave and already thinking about the next event. Subscribe to the Monthly Round-Up to be the first to know about future events and get a free People Stuff ebook. Or if fiction is more your thing, please apply for an Advanced Reader Copy of Olympus Bound.  Introduction to Russel Lolacher (00:05:26) A diverse background and powerful personal leadership journey Impact of Negative Leadership Experiences (00:09:42) Discussion of the long-lasting impact of negative leadership experiences on individuals and consultants. Leadership Behaviour and Impact on Culture (00:10:53) Exploration of how leaders get away with bad behaviour and the focus on results over leadership development. Shift in Leadership Perspective (00:12:06) The impact of the global pandemic on leadership perspectives and the need for self-awareness among leaders. Surviving and Influencing Toxic Cultures (00:14:12) Strategies for leaders to survive and influence toxic cultures, focusing on what they can control and building relationships. Building Relationships at Work (00:18:31) The importance of relationships in workplace culture and the similarity between building relationships at work and in personal life. Professionalism and Its Impact (00:20:06) Challenging the notion of professionalism and its potential impact on diversity, equity, and inclusivity. Ageism and Gender Bias (00:20:42) Discussion on ageism, gender bias, and the changing expectations of employees in the workplace. Power and Responsibility (00:21:46) Exploration of the impact of power on leadership, responsibilities, and the disconnect between executives and employees. Accountability and Leadership (00:22:57) Analysis of the lack of accountability in leadership roles and the shifting perspectives on power among new generations. Remote Work and Office Return (00:25:33) Debate on the push for employees to return to the office and the impact on diversity, equity, and inclusion. Remote Work Challenges (00:27:56) Discussion on balancing remote work flexibility with the desire for connection and community in the workplace. Intent in Digital Leadership (00:28:43) Importance of intention and meaningful efforts in building a digital culture and fostering connections in a hybrid or digital model. Purposeful Gathering (00:31:14) Emphasis on purposeful gatherings, whether virtual or in-person, and the need for intentional interactions. Redesigning Meetings (00:32:10) Approach to redesigning work practices with relationship-based principles and tips for intentional and meaningful meetings. Understanding Impact as a Leader (00:34:41) Insight into understanding the impact of leadership on employees and the importance of self-awareness and situational awareness. Future Technology and Leadership (00:37:50) Desire for advanced AI technology to support and enhance leadership capabilities. Leadership Tips and Decisiveness (00:38:21) The universal tip of listening and the importance of decisiveness in leadership. Checkbox Mentality in Leadership (00:38:58) Frustration with the checkbox mentality in leadership and the lack of follow-up and understanding of the impact of actions. Effective Leadership and Onboarding (00:40:13) Discussion on the frustration with ineffective onboarding processes and the missed opportunity to support new employees. Leadership Assessment (00:35:04) Insight into assessing leadership impact through the perspectives of the environment, work culture, and self-awareness. Leadership Role Model (00:41:14) Recognition of a leader doing something right Russel Lolacher's Leadership Experience (00:41:26) Russel's transformation from a poor leader to a compassionate one, learning from past mistakes. Shift from Top-Down Leadership (00:46:04) Discussion on the need to move away from top-down leadership and the potential challenges in global politics.

In this solosode I’m advocating for reading fiction to enhance and broaden our leadership perspectives - and then using this new outlook to increase curiosity and creativity in our leadership. It's not just about thinking outside the box; it's about reshaping the box entirely. By developing fresh ideas, we can tackle the challenges that come our way with a renewed vigour and rigour. This segues into the seven early warning signs of power abuse - a slippery slope in any organisation. I walk us through the red flags and how to mitigate them, from the complicity of organisational systems to speaking truth to power.  Shownotes See more at: http://www.zoerouth.com/podcast/leadership-power-abuse-zoe-routh Key Moments  Planet Human: Intuitive Machines recent moon landing, its underwhelming broadcast, and how art and life collide.  Planet Zoë: Olympus Bound is with the typesetter and Zoe is looking for advance readers email zoe@zoerouth.com with ARC in the subject line and you could be getting an early look at the ebook version of Olympus Bound The Importance of Developing Perspective (00:04:23) Discussion of creativity, problem-solving, and the role of perspective in leadership. Expanding Perspective Through Reading Fiction (00:05:20) Exploration of how reading fiction can enhance perspective and strategic thinking. Technical Skills for Developing Perspective (00:10:43) Tips for developing perspective and problem-solving skills, focusing on hypothesising and examining situations from multiple perspectives. Early Warning Signs of Power Abuse (00:12:02) Identification and discussion of seven early warning signs of power abuse in organisations and leadership. The Lack of Diversity in Leadership (00:21:07) The importance of diverse perspectives in leadership teams and the impact on decision-making and technology implementation. The Impact of Technology on Prosperity (00:22:24) Exploration of the hypothesis that technological advancements do not always lead to greater freedom and prosperity, and the need for control of the narrative. The Need for Diverse Perspectives in Decision-Making (00:23:30) Highlighting the importance of diverse perspectives in decision-making, especially in considering the negative impacts of solutions like AI implementation. The Importance of New Blood in Leadership (00:27:02) Emphasising the significance of new leadership perspectives and the impact of limited turnover on organisational vitality. Addressing Power Traps in Systems (00:28:08) Exploration of power traps within organisational systems and the potential solutions to counter abuses of power. Developing Independence, Interdependence, and Influence (00:30:38) Discussion on empowering individuals to be independent agents of power, encouraging interdependence, and expanding the narrative in decision-making.  

Have you ever encountered someone in your professional life who seemed charming at first, but turned out to be a bit too self-centred for comfort? This week on the podcast we're diving deep into the world of narcissism with my guest, the insightful Lindsay Ruiz who has deep experience in this area and focused her doctorate in organisational development and change around narcissistic behaviour. Together, we unravel the complexities of narcissistic behaviour and its impact on the workplace. It's a conversation filled with personal stories and research that will arm you with the knowledge to navigate these tricky waters.  Press play for a thoughtful exploration of the human psyche, the complexities of workplace dynamics and the nuances of narcissism.  Shownotes See more at http://www.zoerouth.com/podcast/leadership-systems-lindsay-ruiz   Key Moments  Planet Human: NASA's discovery of building blocks of life on the asteroid Bennu in the Osiris-REx mission and the use of artificial intelligence to decode chicken speech and its potential impact on understanding animal communication.   Planet Zoë: Apply for an Advanced Reader Copy of Olympus Bound!     Introduction to Lindsay Ruiz (00:04:42) And her background in dealing with narcissism in the workplace.   Understanding Narcissism and Narcissistic Abuse (00:07:13) Explanation of narcissism as a personality disorder and the impact of narcissistic abuse on individuals.   Causes and Traits of Narcissistic Personality Disorder (00:10:24) Discussion on potential causes and traits of narcissistic personality disorder, including environmental, genetic, and neurobiological factors.   Emotional World of Narcissists (00:13:47) Insight into the emotional world of narcissists and the lack of self-awareness and empathy.   Narcissists' Pursuit of Power and Control (00:16:50) Explanation of how narcissists seek power, manipulate their environment, and get away with their behaviour, especially in the workplace.   Comparison of Narcissism, Psychopathy, and Machiavellianism (00:19:35) Comparison of narcissism, psychopathy, and machiavellianism as part of the "dark triad" of personalities.   Institutional Complicity and Betrayal in Narcissistic Abuse (00:21:52) Discussion on how institutions contribute to the thriving and protection of narcissists, and the lack of support for victims of narcissistic abuse in organisational settings.   Systemic Issues in Workplace (00:24:37) Exploring how competitiveness and political environments contribute to promoting narcissistic leaders.   Speaking Truth to Power (00:28:31) The difficulties in creating environments for dissent and constructive conversations with leaders.   Narcissistic Clusters (00:35:56) Exploring how narcissists attract and enable each other in power structures.   Enabling Narcissistic Behaviour (00:38:20) Discussion on the rewards and motivations for being an enabler of narcissistic behaviour.   Preventing Abusive Behaviour (00:40:04) Suggestions for systemic changes, personal empowerment, and redefining ethical leadership.   Leadership Crisis (00:46:44) Reflection on the current leadership crisis and the difficulty in finding exemplary public leaders.   Favourite Leadership Podcast (00:49:20) Lindsay recommends "The Path," a podcast showcasing non-linear success stories.   Impact of Narcissistic Abuse (00:52:31) Discussion on the pervasive and systemic nature of narcissistic abuse and the need for awareness.   Creating Safe Cultures (00:54:12) Reflection on creating safe cultures in workplaces and communities to prevent emotional wounds.   Dealing with Narcissists (00:55:19) Zoë's tips on identifying and dealing with narcissists in the workplace.

My guest this week is a former lawyer turned empathy guru, and she's here to share her secret sauce for creating a more connected workplace: storytelling. Dr. Ann Kowal Smith and I explore how stories aren't just for entertainment—they're powerful tools for challenging our assumptions, widening our circles of empathy, and sparking those "aha" moments that bring us closer to our colleagues. We delve into the magic of literature, from short stories to essays, and how they create safe spaces for us to share and grow together. Imagine expanding your imagination, seeing the world through different lenses, and finding common ground in the most unexpected places. That's the power of storytelling in action, and Dr. Smith is here to guide us through it. It feels counterintuitive, but we can make our workplaces more ‘real’ through fiction.  Shownotes See more at http://www.zoerouth.com/podcast/leadership-stories-ann-kowal-smith   Key Moments  Planet Zoë: Zoë has swapped skiing for running as she settles back into her routine, plus exciting developments as the launch of Olympus Bound gets ever nearer. If you would like to get an advance eBook copy and write a review before the launch, Zoë would be thrilled! You can do so here. Building a More Empathetic Workplace (00:02:26) Zoë introduces the topic of building a more empathetic and connected workplace. Using Stories to Build Connection and Empathy (00:03:41) Dr Ann Kowal Smith discusses using stories to build connection and empathy in the workplace. The Genesis of the Work (00:05:44) Dr Smith shares the genesis of using stories to create genuine, engaging conversations in the workplace. Encouraging Engagement with Literature (00:07:01) Dr Smith discusses overcoming resistance to engaging in literature-based conversations in the workplace. The Power of Stories to Expand Imagination (00:13:35) Dr Smith explains the power of stories to expand imagination and push people beyond their comfort zones. Deriving Personal Connections from Stories (00:16:51) Dr Smith and Zoë discuss how individuals derive personal connections and lessons from stories. Using Written Word for Interpretation (00:19:04) Dr Smith explains the use of written word to allow participants to visualise and interpret stories without external influence. The Importance of Stories in Unpacking Assumptions (00:20:01) Discussion on how stories can reveal cultural biases and unpack assumptions. Curating Stories for Building Connections (00:21:37) The process of curating stories with specific parameters to spark meaningful conversations. Duration and Frequency of Reflection Point Assignments (00:25:38) The ideal duration and frequency of sessions with a team for building the muscle of connection and empathy. Facilitation and Structure of Conversations (00:28:27) The facilitation methodology, emphasising process-oriented facilitation and the importance of open-ended conversations. The Intersection of Fiction and Workplace Practices (00:38:27) Zoë and Dr Smith discuss the integration of fiction into workplace practices and its impact on leadership and connection. The Power of Stories in the Workplace (00:39:50) Using stories to unite communities and improve workplace collaboration.  

Do you want more influence? What about more power? It doesn’t feel quite the same to pursue power does it? Power and power structures don’t have a great reputation, and history is littered with abuses of power, but what if we reframe our understanding of power and use it to make us better leaders? That’s interesting, that’s exciting! We can dismantle the ‘power pyramid’ and turn it into something much more organic and collaborative with humanity at its heart. This is something I’ll be exploring in depth this year, so let’s get started!  Shownotes See more at: http://www.zoerouth.com/podcast/leadership-power-zoe-routh Key Moments  Planet Human: Zoë is just back from Japan, where they have just landed a spacecraft on the moon - which is exciting news! Another development is the ability to create virtual loved ones that we’ve lost - that’s happening over at Project December  Planet Zoë: After a blissful time skiing, Zoë is back writing, thinking and delivering. The  Leadership Conclave is fast approaching and Olympus Bound is now available for pre-order - via Zoë’s site and on Amazon.  Reflection on Power and Influence (00:08:39) The impact of power on individuals and society. Conception of Power as Structures (00:09:43) Exploration of the traditional model of power and its impact on leadership. Triangle vs. Circle Concept of Power (00:12:29) Comparison of the traditional triangle model and the proposed circle model of power. Impact of Power Conceptualisation (00:15:08) Discussion on the energising and enduring aspects of power conceptualization. Takeaway Tips for Power Reflection (00:21:11) Reflection questions and tips for individuals to consider their perception of power.

This is a conversation that's close to my heart as I first met Benny Callaghan way back in 1999 when he joined Outward Bound as a trainee and I was his first trainer. His potential was obvious from day one and I couldn’t be more thrilled at his trajectory since then and to have him on the podcast!  Benny is a leadership coach and facilitator extraordinaire who excels at seeing complexity and the dynamics at play between human relationships. We discuss the challenges of leadership and organisational dynamics, the difficulty of breaking down silos within organisations and how high workloads can prevent leaders from engaging in crucial relationship-building.  It’s a time travelling episode where we reflect on our shared past and ponder the future of leadership and what that means today. We tackle some tough questions about power dynamics, the challenges of organisational systems, and how to maintain trust and collaboration in complex environments. Benny shares a powerful story about overcoming competing priorities within an organisation, and it's a tale that's sure to resonate with many of you. Shownotes See more at: http://www.zoerouth.com/podcast/leadership-change-benny-callaghan Key Moments  Benny Callaghan’s Leadership Journey (00:03:22) Benny discusses his career journey, including his experience at Outward Bound and founding the School for Social Entrepreneurs. Interest in Social Entrepreneurship (00:05:14) Benny explains his interest in social entrepreneurship and the challenges of blending purpose with a commercial mindset. Leadership and Systems in Disaster Recovery (00:10:16) The Regenerate programme, focusing on leadership and system dynamics in disaster recovery, particularly in the context of bushfires. Power Dynamics in Organisational Systems (00:13:47) Delving into power dynamics within organisations, particularly in emergency services, and the challenges of integrating diverse voices. Maintaining Relationships and Agency in Organisations (00:18:48) Exploring the difficulty of maintaining relationships and a sense of agency in organisations, especially when dispersed, and the need for discipline and deliberate attention. Fostering Individual Agency (00:16:25) The importance of recognising and addressing inherent blind spots and power privilege, particularly in empowering younger individuals within organisations. Designing Organisational Systems (00:21:12) Challenges in breaking down silos, leadership maturity, and workload impact on cross-functional collaboration. Confronting Reality and Collaboration (00:23:50) Addressing competing priorities, implementing incentive systems, and fostering collaboration through frank conversations. Systems Thinking and Organisational Design (00:30:05) Leaders' lack of systems thinking, understanding organisations as systems, and mapping relationships and interconnectivity. Facilitating Conversations and Relationship Clarity (00:36:48) Importance of external facilitation, role clarity, and relationship clarity in building a powerful system. Feedback Loops and Co-location (00:40:17) Informal communication, feedback loops, and the value of spending time in co-location for understanding challenges.

We are welcoming back for the third time on the podcast, because he’s just that good, Dermot Crowley - a maestro of efficiency and author of several productivity books including his latest, Lead Smart. This episode is chock full of productivity and prioritisation insights that will especially appeal to busy leaders looking to build highly productive teams.  Dermot explains the different productivity types that exist within our teams – and how each brings a unique flavour to how work gets done. Understanding this will be a game-changer for reducing friction and boosting team synergy. We also tackle the ever-present challenge of maintaining personal productivity boundaries as a leader. Dermot shares some golden nuggets on how to protect and honour your time, and we explore a subtle yet powerful shift in prioritisation.  Shownotes See more at: http://www.zoerouth.com/podcast/leadership-prioritisation-dermot-crowley Key Moments  Planet Human: We continue to be mired in conflict and that weighs heavily. In better news, Sam Altman returns to OpenAI, and ChatGPT moves forward so I’ll be watching that with interest.  Planet Zoë: From the ski-fields of Japan to the production cycle for my next beek, Olympus Bound, I’m managing both work and play! I now have a pre-order page for Olympus Bound and a cover that I love! Check it out.  Meet Dermot Crowley (00:02:19) Zoë introduces Dermot Crowley, a productivity expert, and discusses his latest book "Lead Smart." A Productivity Lifestyle (00:03:05) Dermot shares his lifestyle changes during COVID and how it has impacted his productivity. Evolution of Dermot's Book Series (00:04:50) Dermot explains the evolution of his book series from personal productivity to productivity cultures and leadership. Productivity Types and Cultures (00:08:48) Dermot discusses different productivity types and their impact on building a productive culture. Resolving Power Struggles (00:13:07) Dermot and Zoë discuss resolving conflicts and power struggles between different productivity styles. Challenges in Setting Boundaries (00:18:29) Exploring the challenges leaders face in setting boundaries and protecting their time for priorities. Managing Fixed and Flexible Activities (00:20:22) The difference between fixed and flexible activities and their impact on productivity. The importance of time management (00:21:42) Explains the difference between priorities and tasks and the impact of urgency on productivity. Protecting and honouring time (00:22:51) Discusses the importance of protecting time for important tasks and honouring that protection to maintain productivity. Personalising priorities (00:24:45) Suggests personalising priorities with avatars to prevent dismissing important tasks for less urgent matters. Challenging urgency-driven prioritisation (00:26:20) Challenges the flawed prioritisation based solely on urgency and advocates for a more nuanced approach. Developing a prioritisation framework (00:27:32) Discusses the importance of developing a prioritisation framework beyond urgency and due dates and the equation for priority determination. Importance-driven culture (00:30:01) Advocates for building a culture focused on importance rather than urgency to avoid reactivity and drowning in urgency. Balanced approach to prioritisation (00:32:25) Emphasises the need for a balanced approach to prioritisation and the importance of being responsive while also prioritising important tasks. Executive and EA relationship (00:34:44) Discusses the dynamics of the executive and executive assistant relationship and the importance of visibility and shared planning routines. Weekly planning routine (00:39:23) Highlights the significance of a joint weekly planning routine for executives and their assistants to align priorities and improve productivity. Leadership and productivity insight (00:41:10) Shares the concept of "above the line" leadership and its impact on productivity and leadership effectiveness. Meeting cultures in organisations (00:42:25) Expresses the need to decompress schedules and protect time for important work due to overwhelming meeting cultures in organisations.

My guest this week has evolved from punk rock protester to common ground champion, she is a fearless Indian American activist and a beacon of hope for racial justice. Meet the truly inspiring Nisha Anand as she shares her remarkable story, from being arrested in Burma for her pro-democracy efforts to leading transformative change with DreamOrg, a social justice nonprofit where she is CEO. We learn about the pivotal moment that changed Nisha’s relationship to power and get her insights into building inclusive solutions and finding the all important common ground that can turn perceived enemies into unlikely allies. Collaboration is a must-have leadership skill and Nisha’s unique experiences and wisdom will help you approach it from a fresh perspective.  Shownotes See more at http://www.zoerouth.com/podcast/leadership-collaboration-nisha-anand Key Moments  Planet Human: Reflecting on the current unrest and remembering to look for the good in the world.  Planet Zoë: Olympus Bound is with the editor and the cover is primed for a reveal soon!  Meet Nisha Anand (00:02:10)  Zoe introduces Nisha Anand, an Indian American activist, and her background. An activist arrested (00:03:17)  Nisha shares her experience of being arrested and sentenced to hard labor in a Burmese prison. Activism and bridge-building (00:04:26)  Nisha discusses her activism and the role of being a bridge builder between different worlds and causes. Changed perspective on power and common ground (00:06:27)  Nisha talks about her transformation in viewing power and finding common ground with influential figures. Experience in Burmese jail (00:08:33)  Nisha describes her experience in a Burmese jail and the emotional impact on her and her family. Changed relationship with power (00:12:37)  Nisha explains her previous anarchist views and how her perspective on power has evolved over time. Determining the just cause (00:18:05)  Nisha discusses the complexity of determining the just cause and the importance of acknowledging blind spots. Building the biggest table for solutions (00:20:10) Nisha talks about the approach to creating inclusive solutions by considering diverse perspectives and unlikely allies. Belief in Dignity and Freedom for Everybody (00:22:19)  Emphasis on the desire for a future with dignity, freedom, and justice for all, and the importance of not marginalising any group. The Power of Collective Will and Collaboration (00:24:33)  A story about the success of collective will and collaboration in passing bipartisan criminal justice reform legislation. Influence of Individual Leaders and Rise of Authoritarianism (00:28:16)  The impact of individual leaders on a country's behavior and the danger of the rise of authoritarianism and strongmen around the world. Democracy at Scale and Leadership Style (00:32:52) Discussion on the importance of democracy at scale, the influence of individual leaders, and the leadership style focused on embracing love. Fast Five: Leadership Tips and Recommendations (00:36:16)  Nisha's responses to leadership and future tech, leadership tip, workplace problem, leaders deserving thumbs up, and a favorite leadership book. Challenges of Collective Decision Making (00:43:13) The effort and time required to consider diverse perspectives and the limitations of picking a single solution.

Happy new year and welcome to the first episode of the Zoë Routh Leadership Podcast for 2024!   In this solosode I explore seven critical areas for leadership reform: democracy, healthcare, food production, education, wealth distribution, climate change, and urbanisation. Additionally, I identify three key trends that leaders need to navigate this year: redefining the employee work contract, incorporating AI in leadership, and shifting from command-based to collaborative power dynamics. These topics offer a roadmap for leaders to effectively traverse challenges and build leadership capabilities that are fit for the future. Are you ready? Let’s go… Shownotes See more at http://www.zoerouth.com/podcast/leadership-revolution-zoe-routh   Key Moments  00:02:28 Planet Human: Advancements in science: lab-grown human organs and protein production from air. Check out the Future Normal end of year reflection and prediction article.  00:04:41 Planet Zoë: Updates on Zoë's book projects and forthcoming event, The Leadership Conclave, a small, intimate session with deep individual reflection and some group strategising. Find out more 00:08:51 Ripe for Reform or Revolution: Democracy. 00:10:56 Ripe for Reform or Revolution: Healthcare. 00:12:00 Ripe for Reform or Revolution: Food production. 00:13:12 Ripe for Reform or Revolution: Education. 00:14:19 Ripe for Reform or Revolution: Wealth, property, economies, and taxation. 00:15:33 Ripe for Reform or Revolution: Climate change politics. 00:16:40 Ripe for Reform or Revolution: Ongoing urbanisation. 00:17:51 Central leadership question and three trends to manage. 00:18:51 Revisiting the work contract value proposition with employees. 00:20:06 Experiment: Purposeful gathering. 00:21:12 Trend: AI-assisted everything and corresponding experiment. 00:22:35 Power and Collaboration: Discussing the dangers of wielding power alone and the need for collaborative leadership. 00:23:50 Collective Decision Making: Exploring the importance of collective decision-making processes and recommending resources for implementing them. 00:26:18 Leadership Constants: Highlighting the unchanging needs of leaders, including self-care, safety, belonging, status, autonomy, and fairness. 00:29:40 Complexity and Perspective: Emphasising the necessity for leaders to navigate complexity by developing perspective, understanding diversity, and honing futurist skills. 00:31:57 Reading and Emotional Intelligence: Promoting the use of fiction to develop empathy and emotional intelligence in leaders, with a book example. 00:33:02 Book Discussion: Analysing the science fiction book "Children of Memory" and its implications on human experiences and connections.

We have made it to the end of the year! And this is the wrap up episode for the Zoë Routh Leadership Podcast. I'm going to do my best to summarise the highlights, the insights and the awesomeness that was this year's show. We did a lot of great interviews and I'm really keen to showcase some of the awesome highlights from the year.  Of course I’m already planning and recording interviews for 2024 and we will continue our journey of leadership exploration, musing on the future of leadership, the intersection of leadership and technology and how we can expand our perspectives to be the leaders we need right now and in the future. I’m also thinking a lot about leadership power and the power structures we cling to. Do they really serve us? This also ties in with culture, teamwork and the workforce of the future - we need to think more creatively about all these aspects of work. Thank you for listening in 2023 and we’ll be back with a new episode on January 16th 2024!  Shownotes See more at: http://www.zoerouth.com/podcast/leadership-highlights-zoe-routh Key Moments  Planet Human: There has been a prototype built and tested for nuclear fusion, not fission. So nuclear power is generally when they split the atom and they harness the energy for that. Nuclear fusion is when they smash two atoms together and harness that energy, and the result is a clean energy, potentially a near infinite source of clean energy. This is big news. And in the UK, Rolls-Royce has a prototype lunar nuclear fission machine; a modular type of traditional nuclear reactor.  Planet Zoë: Olympus bound is with the editor and I’ve already started to dabble with the next book in the series, which is exciting. You can also get a free e-book version of my award-winning People Stuff book, just by signing up to my monthly newsletter.  Interview Highlights The war in Ukraine (00:08:18) Zoë recaps an interview with Oksana about her family's memoir on the war between Ukraine and Russia, highlighting the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. AI and its impact (00:12:05) How will ChatGPT and AI change how we work? Two guests share their experiences. The future of leadership (00:21:56) Discussion on moving towards regenerative practices, the shift to an experience economy, and the integration of AI in business. The new leadership skills (00:23:08) Exploration of the skills of creativity, collaboration, and compassion as essential capabilities for future leadership. The future of power (00:24:21) Focus on changing the relationship to power, elevating others, and wielding power responsibly for the betterment of more people.

Grayson James is a former CEO, author of Full Contract Performance The Internal Art of Organizational Collaboration and he's a sixth Dan black belt in Aikido - a particular interest of mine as I often use the term emotional Aikido in my programs to help people master the difficult conversations that are part of leadership.  Together we go deep on the embodied experience of leadership and especially how that applies to working effectively with others. We explore somatic awareness in leadership - paying attention to our physical intention and interactions. Expanding our field of vision, checking our blind spots - there is so much we can be better aware of and utilise for enhanced collaboration.   Shownotes See more at http://www.zoerouth.com/podcast/leadership-framework-grayson-james Key Moments    Planet Human: The self-checkout falls from favour - sometimes the human touch is best.   Planet Zoë: I’m taking a fresh perspective on 2024 with the Leadership Conclave, a beautiful day of reflection and connection planned for March. Find out more.    The importance of collaboration in leadership (00:03:34) Introducing guest Grayson James and the concept of somatic awareness, embodied leadership, and the significance of collaboration in leadership.   The learning conversation (00:13:08) Discussing the importance of learning together and expanding what is possible through comparing data, sharing interpretations, and exploring differences and commonalities.   The design conversation (00:14:25) Exploring the process of designing the future together, making decisions, declarations, and setting priorities, goals, and strategies.   The fulfilment conversation (00:17:05) Highlighting the significance of executing promises, managing commitments, building trust, and ensuring successful collaboration through effective communication and follow-through.   The importance of collaboration (00:24:13) Our success is dependent on the success of others.   Creating a constructive environment (00:25:02)  The importance of framing the conversation, focusing on root causes instead of blame, and creating a shared perspective.   Paying attention the correct way (00:26:43)  Different ways of paying attention and the need to shift attention from blame to learning and expanding perspectives.   Somatic awareness in collaboration (00:36:34) Exploration of the connection between somatic awareness and effective collaboration, using the principles of Aikido to respond without aggression and work with the energy of others.   Breathing practices for calming the nervous system (00:40:57) The practicality and effectiveness of using simple breathing practices to reset the nervous system, enhance receptivity, and prepare for difficult conversations and collaboration.

Get ready for an amazing, inspiring and enlightening conversation with my guest this week, Alysia Silberg - author and Venture Capitalist. She is so many things: a natural entrepreneur with insatiable curiosity and courage. She sees a challenge and she wants to solve it. She is a prolific reader and assimilates knowledge at an incredible rate. She's a survivor with a harrowing and inspiring story. Alysia shares her journey from South Africa to Silicon Valley, where she is an entrepreneur and venture capitalist, and now author of Unemployable: How I Hired Myself. An early adopter of AI, we also get to dip into Alysia’s amazing AI-enhanced daily routine, from analysing her leadership weaknesses to making sure she takes a yoga class. So much to gain from this conversation - enjoy!  Shownotes See more at http://www.zoerouth.com/podcast/leadership-journey-alysia-silberg Key Moments  Planet Human: Nasa is mapping water on Mars. An exciting development for the ultra long-term future.  Planet Zoë : Easing into summer while plotting for 2024, including our next event The Leadership Conclave **Alysia Silberg's Journey (00:06:58)** Zoë introduces Alysia Silberg, an entrepreneur and venture capitalist, and discusses her book "Unemployable" and her journey from growing up poor in South Africa to becoming successful in Silicon Valley. **The traumatic experience (00:10:53)** Alysia shares the traumatic experience of her mother being beaten during a carjacking incident in South Africa. **A journey of resilience and adaptability (00:13:29)** Alysia reflects on how the traumatic experience shaped her resilience and adaptability, leading her on a journey from South Africa to Canada and eventually becoming a venture capitalist. **Obsession with learning and the power of knowledge (00:17:04)** Alysia discusses her obsession with learning, how it was her salvation, and the empowering nature of knowledge. **Seeking patterns in research and venture capitalism (00:23:02)** Alysia discusses her approach to researching and finding patterns in venture capitalism, and how it has been valuable in her career. **A structured daily ritual practice (00:25:43)** Alysia shares her daily routine, which includes meditation, deep work, specific eating and drinking habits, and cryotherapy, and explains how it helps her self-care and self-management. **Starting self-experimentation (00:33:31)** Alysia recounts her journey of self-experimentation, which began in 2006 after going through a difficult period in her life and receiving a Tony Robbins recording from her husband. **Getting involved in AI (00:37:06)** Early adopter experiences **The daily check-in with ChatGPT (00:44:34)** Alysia explains how she uses ChatGPT for daily check-ins, goal setting, and mental health check-ins. **The future of AI-driven education (00:51:00)** Alysia expresses her wish for an AI-driven global learning platform to provide high-quality personalised education for everyone worldwide.

Human resources specialist Kimberly Williams is extremely dedicated to building safe, inclusive cultures and she joins me to explore the challenges of dealing with toxic CEOs and workplaces, generously sharing her own experiences of speaking truth to power.  Kimberly arrived at HR via an unconventional route: first as a history professor and then a diplomat in the US Foreign Service before falling ‘head over heels in love’ with HR and all the messy people stuff it brings.  We discuss the many ways a toxic workplace can show itself, the difficult power dynamics that impact managers, and the role of HR in shaping corporate culture. It’s a remarkable, candid conversation full of practical actions we can take to protect ourselves, our teams and our company cultures.  Shownotes See more at:  http://www.zoerouth.com/podcast/toxic-corporate-culture-kim-williams   Key Moments  Planet Human: Marc Andreessen's Techno Optimist Manifesto and the advent of techno-topia city projects. Planet Zoe: Back from Canada and happy to complete the last edits of Olympus Bound, the sequel to the Olympus Project. Toxic Workplaces and How to Identify Them (00:07:18) Guest Kimberly Williams discusses how toxic workplaces can manifest through both overt and subtle behaviours. Causes of Toxic Workplaces (00:08:07) The lack of difficult conversations and fear of retribution prevent managers from addressing issues, leading to the deterioration of the organisational environment. Dealing with Toxic Workplaces as an Individual (00:11:05) Kim advises individuals to take detailed notes to document their experiences and protect themselves when navigating a toxic workplace. Document everything (00:12:14) Putting complaints in writing, citing company policies, can be a powerful way to address toxic behaviour and secure one's position. The toxic workplace and dealing with toxic CEOs (00:31:19) Discussion about toxic workplaces, the harm caused by toxic CEOs, and the approach to addressing the issue. Misconceptions about HR (00:32:26) Exploration of the types of issues HR deals with, including the majority being people struggling with lack of self-awareness, and common misconceptions about HR. The role of HR in managing culture (00:36:21) Discussion about HR's role in contributing to and influencing organisational culture, creating psychological safety, and providing insights to executives. HR's struggles and toxic workplaces (00:43:43) Conversation about the struggles HR professionals face and the reputation of HR, as well as the signs of a toxic workplace.

There is no hiding in this solosode as I share how I approached a leadership mistake with a focus on being proactive and rebuilding trust. I took full accountability - and it hurt! But it was the right thing to do and the only way to move forward. In this episode I also talk about above and below the line leadership behaviours and their ripple effect, role modelling ethics and values as a leader and what we can learn from a ‘mystery poo’!  Shownotes See more at http://www.zoerouth.com/podcast/leadership-integrity-zoe-routh Key Moments  Planet Human: The heaviness of a world at war; connecting the micro to the macro  Planet Zoë: Olympus Bound update with fantastic feedback from my beta readers, travel, family and working with clients in WA.  The Mystery Poo (00:04:44) Discussion about a situation involving a mystery poo in a wilderness expedition and the challenges of taking ownership and responsibility. The Missing First Aid Kit (00:08:24) An example of taking ownership, accountability, and responsibility for a mistake Shame, Humiliation, and Regret (00:09:11) Reflection on the impact of shame, humiliation, and embarrassment. Apologising to the group (00:12:41) Taking the initiative and accountability. Leadership responsibility (00:14:48) The importance of taking ownership, accountability, and responsibility for mistakes and the positive impact it can have on relationships and the world.

If you’re looking for a leadership perspective that is not only relatable but also grounded in the reality of our current times, my guest Dr Karuna Ramanathan has some vital insights for you.   An ex naval warship captain, formerly the Senior Principal Change Consultant in Singapore Government and, prior to that, Deputy Head of the Center for Leadership Development in the Singapore Armed Forces, Karuna is the author of Navigating the Seas of Change, a concise guide to leadership and change management with a maritime metaphor. Karuna compares the unpredictability of change to the sea, emphasising the crucial role of leadership in navigating these tumultuous waters. Karuna shares his experiences of driving large-scale organisational change, the challenges of positional power, the tension between having a transformative vision and taking incremental steps and the importance of managing different risk appetites. Karuna also reflects on his time in the military and how hierarchy and accountability have a huge impact on team dynamics, pushing through change and, ultimately, getting results.  Shownotes See more at http://www.zoerouth.com/podcast/leadership-change-karuna-ramanathan Key Moments  Planet Human: Carbon Labelling of Food at Hilton Hotels (00:00:29) The implementation of carbon labelling on menus at Hilton hotels and the impact on guests' food choices. Planet Zoë: Family, friends, connection and celebration in Canada!  Interview with Karuna Ramanathan (00:03:42) Meet Karuna Ramanathan, a former naval warship captain and leadership trainer, and an expert on large-scale organisational change and its practical implementation. The importance of personal insights (00:10:21) Taking time for personal reflection and converting observations into personal insights for learning and growth. The challenges of large-scale organisational change (00:11:24) The importance of treating people with dignity and respect during the transformation process. Different contextual states for change (00:17:45) Exploring hierarchical organisations like the military, government organisations, and corporate organisations, highlighting the differences in risk appetite and approaches to change. The challenges of positional power (00:20:16) The problems that arise when senior executives overuse their positional power and the need for them to be more flexible and relatable. Fixing systemic issues in leadership (00:20:58) Instead of focusing on fixing mental health, organisations should address the systemic issues in leadership that contribute to employees' dissatisfaction and well-being. Identifying influence points in organisations (00:25:04) How change consultants approach this task. Navigating the seas of change (00:30:42) Lessons learned from leadership in the navy and the challenges of leading in extreme and unpredictable environments. Conceiving the alternative vision state (00:32:30) Exploring the process of imagining a transformational end point in organisations and the methodology behind it. The messy nature of adaptive leadership (00:37:51) Highlights the non-linear and uncertain nature of adaptive leadership and the challenges it poses for individuals and organisations. The shift in attitudes towards remote meetings (00:42:59) Exploring the shift in attitudes towards remote meetings and the use of technology like Zoom, highlighting the impact of the pandemic on changing perspectives. Sense Making and Expanding Perspective (00:52:09) Expanding our sense of time and complexity to make sense of the bigger picture and draw interactions within organisations.