OD&D Podcast

Welcome to another episode of "The Wednesday Weekly Waffle." Today, we're diving into the fascinating world of 'The Traitors,' a reality TV show that's been grabbing attention worldwide. Let's break down the key learnings and observations I've picked up from the dynamics of the show. Getting to Know 'The Traitors': 'The Traitors' is a reality show based on the Werewolf game, where we see participants striving to win money while hidden traitors aim to deceive the group. The game involves nightly votes to eliminate players, all geared towards identifying and kicking out the traitors. Water Cooler Chats and My Takeaways: 'The Traitors' has turned into a water cooler sensation, sparking conversations among viewers who either love the suspense or feel uneasy about the intense arguments during roundtable discussions. I've noticed the polarized reactions and started thinking about how conflict, even on the screen, can make us observers uncomfortable. My Reflections on Conflict and Viewer Reactions: Reflecting on my own experience, I've observed how even minor conflicts on the show can make me feel uneasy. This mirrors research showing that rudeness and aggression, even when observed, can impact individuals. Team Shake-ups and Fast Changes: Let's talk about the rapid shifts in team dynamics on 'The Traitors,' where leaders can go from heroes to outcasts within a day. Participants are in a constant state of reassessment, forming alliances, and grappling with the stress of uncertainty. Exploring Civility and Kindness: Using the show as a lens, I encourage you to join me in a mini-experiment: observe how incivility in roundtable discussions affects your emotions. Can the concepts of civility and kindness save lives, even within the context of a reality TV show?  Creating Spaces for Honest Discussions: Wrapping things up, I want to stress the importance of creating forums for honest feedback and discussion in various aspects of our lives. I see value in having safe spaces where people can express themselves truthfully, drawing parallels to the show's roundtable discussions. Whether you're a fan of 'The Traitors' or not, the dynamics of the show offer unique insights into human behavior, conflict, and collaboration. I'm eager to hear your thoughts, so drop your comments on what you think of the 'Traitors'. Drop me a line at joe@smartjoseph.com Have an awesome week, and I'll catch you in the next episode. Take care!

Hey there, it's Joe Smart, and welcome to another edition of the Wednesday Weekly Waffle. Today, I'm diving into a quote that caught my eye recently: "A jack of all trades is a master of none." But hold on, there's more to it than meets the eye. The full quote is, "A jack of all trades is a master of none, but oftentimes better than a master of one." Here are the key takeaways: Historical Insights: Let's rewind a bit and explore the historical context where folks needed a variety of skills, like blacksmithing or thatching, to thrive in different communities. Shifting Career Paradigms: We'll talk about how the old-world emphasis on specialization has given way to a modern understanding of the value of being a generalist. Adaptability in 2024: How does this quote hold up in our current age, where information is at our fingertips and AI is shaking up traditional notions of specialization? Versatility is the Name of the Game: I'm advocating for a diverse skill set, highlighting the importance of adaptability and versatility in today's ever-changing professional landscape. A Word for the Young Guns: If you're in your late teens or early twenties, this one's for you. I'm encouraging you to take risks, join that band, start a business—because those wild experiences now might just give you a competitive edge later on. Breaking Stereotypes: We'll challenge stereotypes by sharing stories of individuals whose hidden talents defy their job roles. The Power of a Portfolio Career: Ever heard of a portfolio career? We're exploring the idea of having a main job while pursuing side interests or hustles to enrich your skill set. Risk-Taking Wisdom: Embrace the unexpected. Take those risks, invest in business ventures, because the crazy stuff you do now might just become your secret weapon down the road. Modern Application: How does the concept of a "jack of all trades" play out in today's professional world, where a broad skill set can be your ticket to seizing new opportunities? Your Turn to Share: I want to hear from you! What's your take on being a "jack of all trades" in your career? Drop your thoughts in the comments or shoot me an email at joe@smartjoseph.com. Let's build a community of shared experiences. As we wrap up, remember to take care of yourself, be kind, and I'll catch you in the next episode with more insights and waffles. Until then!

Hey there, it's Joe Smart, and welcome to another episode of the Wednesday Weekly Waffle. Today, we're diving into the fascinating concept of JoMo - the Joy of Missing Out. As we kick off 2024, I'm taking a moment to reflect on the ongoing journey of our OD& D podcast, fueled by the heartwarming support received over the festive season. Let's break down the key takeaways: FOMO Realities: We're all too familiar with FOMO, the fear of missing out. I explore how constant social media comparisons can lead to feelings of inadequacy and self-doubt, as we measure our lives against the seemingly perfect narratives of others. JoMo Unveiled: Introducing JoMo, the Joy of Missing Out, as an antidote to FOMO. It's about choosing authenticity, finding happiness on our own terms, and ditching the external validation game in favor of self-approval. Navigating 2024: I encourage listeners to consider the evolving dynamics of the year ahead. In a world post-lockdown, should we prioritize joy, well-being, and validating ourselves over the never-ending quest for external approval? Spotting FOMO Moments: It's time for some self-reflection. When do you feel FOMO creeping in? Identifying these moments is the first step towards making positive changes in our lives. Embracing JoMo Choices: I advocate for consciously choosing JoMo - the joy of missing out on things that don't align with our happiness. It might mean saying no to external pressures, events, or relationships that don't contribute to our genuine well-being. So, as we navigate the twists and turns of 2024, let's ponder the balance between chasing external validation and embracing the joyous self. Through the lens of JoMo, let's make choices that prioritize authenticity and genuine happiness in the year ahead. Thanks for tuning in, and until next time, take care! Joe www.smartjoseph.com 

Welcome to the final installment of the Wednesday Weekly Waffle for the year! As we approach the close of 2023, let's engage in a retrospective analysis of the OD&D podcast's achievements and key moments throughout the year. Commencing on March 15th, the podcast strategically centered on themes of leadership development, organizational dynamics, and the sharing of professional narratives. From the initiation of weekly reflections to thought-provoking interviews, the journey has proven to be both rewarding and insightful. Noteworthy highlights encompass a compelling dialogue with Jane Nicholson, delving into the intricate nuances of cross-cultural work dynamics. The discourse with Lex Lang, a deputy head, provided valuable insights into the intersection of education and artificial intelligence, notably addressing the accelerated pace of the design cycle. Explorations into topics such as distraction management, navigating beginnings and endings, recognizing mental health indicators, and the potency of authentic storytelling, as demonstrated by guests like Crina, added substantial depth to the podcast. Throughout the year, we dissected critical themes such as leadership dynamics, the interplay between chaos and order, the significance of resilience amidst failure, and the strategic art of choosing the path laden with challenges. Drawing inspiration from events featuring influential figures like Simon Sinek and Stephen Bartlett, we delved into the intricate dynamics of leadership and followership. The intersection of gaming concepts, such as Dungeons and Dragons, with real-world business dynamics provided unique perspectives. Conversations on time management, organizational development consultations, navigating VUCA environments, and a philosophical exploration with Todd May contributed to the podcast's diverse and enriching content. The strategic integration of quality improvement methodologies and the deliberate introduction of decision-making friction were key focus areas. In-depth interviews with notable figures, including Crina and Tim Keough from Kindness Into Action, added depth and diverse insights to the podcast. Themes of vulnerability, overcoming procrastination, and the transformative nature of challenges were cetnral themes of discussion. As we approach the festive season, I extend my sincere gratitude for the unwavering support, constructive feedback, and active engagement from our esteemed listeners. Your participation has undoubtedly elevated the podcast's impact and relevance. Wishing you all a prosperous festive season, and I eagerly anticipate our renewed engagement in 2024. Until then, take care and Happy New Year!  Joe www.smartjoseph.com 

Welcome to the Wednesday Weeky Waffle! This week I'm thrilled to dive into the topic that has been a game-changer for me – the sigmoid curve.Now, the sigmoid curve, introduced by the brilliant Charles Handy in his 1995 book, "The Empty Raincoat," is a concept that has profoundly impacted my perspective on personal and professional growth. Handy's work, sadly not as widely discussed today, holds incredible insights that are still relevant in our rapidly changing world. So, what is the sigmoid curve? Imagine the classic S-curve representing change – the ups and downs we all experience. As you embark on something new, you start at the bottom, clueless about what you're doing – unconsciously incompetent. Then comes the phase of conscious incompetence, where you know what you don't know, leading to a dip in performance. But here's the fascinating part: as you persist, learn, and adapt, you climb the curve, reaching a point of conscious competence. You're good at what you do, but there's a danger here. As you peak, complacency sets in, and your performance may start to decline. This phenomenon isn't just personal; it applies to businesses, markets, and even empires throughout history. The question arises: How do we avoid the decline? Handy suggests starting your next curve while still on the upswing of the first one. Think of it as transitioning seamlessly from conscious competence to unconscious incompetence again. Yes, your performance may dip initially, but it ensures continuous evolution and forward movement. A real-world example? Look no further than Amazon. It began as an online bookstore and seamlessly transitioned through multiple curves, becoming a giant in e-commerce, logistics, technology, and beyond. The key was embracing the unknown and venturing into uncharted territories. So, here are the takeaways: If you're in the struggle of not knowing, embrace it – you're on the right track. If you're feeling too comfortable, start your second curve. Dive into courses, explore new areas, and be comfortable with being uncomfortable. Remember, the worst that can happen is returning to where you were, but the best is discovering your next big step. So, listeners, whether you're navigating the uncertainties or contemplating your next move, think about the sigmoid curve. I'd love to hear your thoughts and experiences, so drop your feedback and questions in the comments. See you next week! Joe joe@smartjoseph.com www.smartjoseph.com 

Welcome to the OD&D podcast In this episode, I am delighted to welcome Tim Keogh to the call. Tim is the co-founder of A Kind Life (https://www.akind.life/) and the published author of 'Kinder Conversations: Talk it out, without falling out.' Tim has worked with thousands of NHS staff to develop a set of principles and tools that embed kindness into every interaction. The growing body of scientific data shows us how being kind directly affects our physical body and mental health, and how kindness enables organizations to get the best from their people while providing a brilliant place for people to work. In this podcast, Tim talks about his journey to setting up and running A Kind Life. He discusses how a smile is a proven clinical intervention and how the BUILD model enables difficult conversations to take place without people resorting to being unkind. We both share experiences of presenting kindness to senior consultants and nurses and the standard 'eye roll' we always get. However, once people see the science behind kindness, it moves from a 'nice to have' to a fundamental 'business essential.' To connect with Tim, please follow him on LinkedIn and keep an eye out for his brilliant lunchtime seminars called 'Kindness Invites Culture and Strategy to Lunch…' to see him in action! I would be really interested to hear your thoughts about kindness; please drop me an email at joe@smartjoseph.com and let me know! To paraphrase the late Jerry Springer, 'Be kind to yourself, and be kind to each other.' Take care, Joe www.smartjoseph.com

Welcome to the Weekly Waffle. I'm Joe Smart. Today, let's talk about vulnerability hangovers – a term gaining traction in leadership discussions. In the past, vulnerability was linked to weakness, but recent research suggests that leaders who show vulnerability foster stronger team collaboration. A vulnerability hangover is akin to an emotional aftermath following situations where you've put yourself out there, like job interviews or important presentations. It's that feeling of emptiness in the days that follow. To handle it: Recognize it: Understand that vulnerability hangovers are real, especially after intense workweeks or significant presentations. Communicate: Let others know if you need downtime to recharge emotionally. It's about self-care. Refuel: Find what replenishes your energy. It could be a walk, a good book, or quality time with loved ones. Remember, acknowledging vulnerability hangovers is part of maintaining emotional well-being. Share your thoughts and experiences. Until next time, take care and have a great week! Joe www.smartjoseph.com   

Unleashing the Blades: Stu Smart on Crafting a Legacy with SMART HEMA Clubs - From Fencing to Identity, a 24-Hour Sword Fight, and Beyond! Welcome, warriors, to another thrilling episode of the OD&D Podcast! Today, I'm joined by the extraordinary Stu Smart, the mastermind behind SMART HEMA Clubs, a powerhouse in the world of Historical European Martial Arts. 🗡️ In this heart-pounding episode, Stu takes us on a journey through: The Birth of a Warrior's Haven: Discover why Stu founded his own HEMA Club and how his unique blend of rehab and fencing coaching laid the foundation for something extraordinary. Defining the Art: Stu unravels his personal definition of HEMA and sheds light on why this niche sport attracts individuals as unique as the art itself. Beyond the Battleground: Learn when Stu realized his club had transcended from a mere sports class to an identity and a way of life for its members. The 24-Hour Sword Symphony: Dive into the epic tale of how Stu organized a 24-hour sword fight to champion mental health and why the last 10 seconds of that monumental period are etched into his memory forever. 🔥 Join us for a riveting conversation that goes beyond the blade, exploring the passion, commitment, and respect Stu demonstrates toward armed combat and personal growth through HEMA. Connect with Stu Smart: 🎥 YouTube Channel: @thehemashow3447 🌐 Website: www.smarthemaclubs.co.uk Get ready for a podcast episode that's not just about HEMA—it's about forging a way of life. Don't miss out on the action! See you on the battleground of the next OD&D Podcast! Cheers, Joe 🌐 www.smartjoseph.com"

Welcome to the Wednesday Weekly Waffle with Joe Smart. In this episode, Joe delves into the fascinating realm of compassionate leadership, exploring its significance and practical applications. He draws insights from the work of the King's Fund, an independent body dedicated to research and development for the NHS, which defines compassion as the sensitivity to suffering in oneself and others, with a commitment to alleviating and preventing it. Compassionate leadership, as Joe explains, goes beyond just making things happen – it's about fostering strong relationships, careful listening, understanding, and empathizing with others to ensure they feel valued, respected, and cared for. He references Professor Michael West, a renowned figure in the NHS, whose research shows that compassionate leadership leads to more engaged and motivated staff with higher levels of well-being, ultimately resulting in higher quality care. Joe shares his own experiences and insights into how he applies compassionate leadership in his organizational development work. He emphasizes the importance of viewing situations from a first-person, second-person, and third-person perspective, highlighting the value of empathy and understanding in leadership. He addresses common misconceptions about compassionate leadership, stressing that it doesn't equate to letting people off the hook. Instead, it involves having tough conversations when necessary to drive personal and professional growth. For those looking to explore compassionate leadership further, Joe recommends starting with the work of Professor Michael West and provides valuable tips for incorporating compassion into your own leadership style. He discusses the four key behaviors defined by Atkins and Parkham in 2012: attending, understanding, empathizing, and helping. By the end of this episode, you'll have a deeper understanding of compassionate leadership and how it can positively impact your leadership journey, whether in a professional or personal context. Tune in to the Wednesday Weekly Waffle and discover how compassion can transform leadership for the better. www.smartjoseph.com joe@smartjoseph.com 

Weekly Wednesday Waffle - My 3 favorite NLP Techniques!  A chance encouter in a charity shop book shelf has led me to re-explore my NLP journey and share my top 3 NLP teachniques with you this week.  NLP isn't just about techniques however; it's a lens through which we can observe the intricacies of human communication. Discover how simple cues like eye movements can reveal thinking patterns and how this knowledge can refine the way you connect with others. I'll delve into the concept of "anchoring," a tool that lets us summon positive states of mind when they are needed most. For me, it's a way to prepare for the responsibility of welcoming new team members, even on the most demanding of days. I'll also explore the art of "reframing." This subtle technique can transform challenges into opportunities by altering your perspective. For instance, missing a bus isn't just a hassle; it might be an opportunity for exercise or a moment to reflect. Lastly, we'll discuss the Disney creativity strategy. It's a method that encourages you to view problems from different angles, just as Walt Disney did. This gentle approach fosters innovation and uncovers solutions hidden in plain sight. NLP is a valuable tool for individuals and organizations alike. Whether you're new to NLP or already well-versed in it, I encourage you to explore its principles further. You may find that you've unconsciously integrated these techniques into your daily life. If you have any questions about NLP or want to discuss any topics covered in this podcast, please reach out!  Till next week!  Joe www.smartjoseph.com 

Welcome to the Wednesday Weekly Waffle! In this episode I talk about how the pain IS the gain.

Welcome to the OD&D podcast. I welcome Crina Manolescu back for a second interview after our first conversation (see OD&D podcast episode 4).  In the first interview Crina and I discussed her arrival in the UK and her career from accedmic to city banker. In this episode, we discuss Crina early life before arriving in the UK and in particually focus on her time during the Romanian revolution in 1989.  We cover how: trusting your instincts can save your life how bravery comes in many shapes and forms how all achievment comes with sacrifice and pain  how keeping positive and moving forward can be the best thing to do when you don't know what else to do how you can find freedom in being 'tested' and how that can build self confidence and focus (Please excuse some of the sound quality in this podcast, we were hit with a few technical issues during one part of our call) I would love to hear your thoughts on this podcast! Send me an email at joe@smartjoseph.com and let me know.  Take care Joe www.smartjoseph.com   

Welcome to the Weekly Wednesday Waffle! In this episode, we're diving into a common challenge that many of us face: overthinking and procrastination. We'll explore how these habits can seriously impact our lives, from causing anxiety and hindering decision-making to reducing our overall happiness. We'll even touch on some surprising physical effects, like chronic pain and sleep troubles. All of this is backed up by research from Dr. Edwards Watkins, as found in his April 2020 journal article titled "Reflecting on rumination: Consequences, causes, mechanisms, and treatment of rumination." In our world filled with endless information, understanding the science behind overthinking, particularly the role of our "monkey brain" (as explained by Prof Steve Peters in "The Chimp Paradox"), can be a game-changer in managing this tendency. We'll share tips on how to engage your "monkey brain," including practices like venting and mindfulness. These techniques can help calm your emotional center (the limbic system) and help you regain control of your thoughts, ultimately breaking the cycle of overthinking and putting you back in the driver's seat of your mind. We'll also apply these insights to organizations, stressing the importance of seeking "good enough" solutions that move a step closer to your organization's goals. We'll highlight the risks of doing nothing and the value of presenting a well-thought-out "do-nothing" scenario in decision-making. Taking small, manageable steps can help reduce risks and build momentum for change. And remember, you're not alone in your struggle with overthinking. Seeking support can make a significant difference in breaking free from this cycle. We'll catch you next week for more engaging insights! Warm regards, Joe For additional content and resources, visit www.smartjoseph.com.    

Feeling bored is a universal human condition. But what is boredem, and can it play a role in creativity? In this episode of the "Wednesday Weekly Waffle" podcast, I explore the intriguing relationship between boredom and creativity. Let me take you on a journey as I share an anecdote about how Robert Louis Stevenson created "Treasure Island" during a rainy summer holiday in Scotland, where boredom played a key role. I delve into the neuroscience behind boredom, distinguishing between the reflective nervous system (autopilot mode) and the deliberate nervous system (actively engaged mode). You see, when we experience boredom, we actually have more mental space for deliberate thinking, potentially fostering creativity. Learning Point 1: Embrace Boredom for Creativity I share insights from creative individuals like J.K. Rowling and Anna Enright, who emphasize that boredom can be a productive state, provided it's used effectively. It's a crucial lesson: boredom isn't always negative. In fact, it can be a catalyst for creativity. So, next time you find yourself feeling bored, try resisting the urge to fill that void with distractions like phones or TV. Instead, deliberately embrace boredom as an opportunity for your mind to wander, explore new ideas, and let your imagination run wild. Learning Point 2: Balance Reflexive and Deliberate Thinking I reference studies conducted by Dr. Sadie Mann and Eric Schumer, revealing that being bored at work can actually enhance creativity. It's essential to recognize the value of the deliberate mode of thinking. This mode is more accessible when experiencing boredom and offers more mental space for creative ideas and solutions. Therefore, it's wise to create moments for deliberate thinking in our daily lives. Learning Point 3: Disconnect for Creative Space In our hyperconnected world, we have constant access to digital distractions. To tap into our creative potential, we should intentionally disconnect from screens and distractions at times. Engaging in activities like going for a walk, doing mundane tasks, or simply allowing our minds to wander can provide the mental space needed for innovative thinking. The lesson is to find moments when we can be deliberately bored to spark creativity. The 'waffle' concludes with a call to action, encouraging you, the listeners, to view boredom not as something to be avoided but as an opportunity for your minds to explore uncharted creative territories. By doing so, I believe we can tap into our hidden wellsprings of innovation and inspiration. I would love to hear what crazy things you come up with when your bored!!  See you next week!  Joe www.smartjoseph.com 

In this weeks waffle I talk about how to add friction to decision making and why its very important to overcome our bias and our sometimes unhelpful behaviors. I talk about how I was inspired by Jennifer Eberhardt TED talk on 'How racial bias works, and how to disrupt it' and how simple 'pauses' or 'friction' in our decision making can be the difference that MAKES the difference in how we act and behave.  I then discuss how: One simple question in a police stop and search policy reduced black men being targeted  Decision friction can help us down from 'Mount Stupid'  adding some friction gives us control and allows us to respond to things the way we want too (rather than the way we might do without a pause) focus on the breathe and mindfulness are really helpful tools  And finally I somehow link this all back to HEMA again (!) and talk about how adding this friction to our decision making can be the difference of going to an activity we enjoy or not after a busy day at work.  As always, I would love to hear your thoughts and comments or you can contact me directly at joe@smartjoseph.com  Have a great week! 

"Get ready to dive deep into the fascinating world of change management in this week's electrifying episode of Wednesday Waffle! Join me, as I unravel the secrets of 'Quality Improvement' (QI) - a game-changing approach for tackling complex human systems. 🚀 Discover what QI is and how it can revolutionize your approach to change. 💡 Learn why thinking you've got a simple solution to a complex problem might just land you on the treacherous 'Mount Stupid.' 😅 Uncover the surprising challenges of passive resistance and malicious compliance that can unravel even the most meticulously laid plans. 🔍 Find out why 'Discovery' is the most thrilling part of the change process. 🌟 Explore the profound idea that the journey itself is the essence of change, reshaping not only systems but the individuals within them. If you're gearing up for a monumental change program and crave some thought-provoking insights, don't hesitate to reach out and chat with me at www.smartjoseph.com  Tune in now and ignite your passion for change!" 🔥🎙️

In this Wednesday Weekly Waffle I discuss: What VUCA is and why its important in our ever changing world 'Machine' based thinking for organisations  Complex Adaptive Human System thinking for organisations A look into the 'shadow side' of organisations and what we can learn spending time here As always I would love to hear your thoughts on VUCA and on the 'shadow side', does this make sense for your organisation?  See you next week! Joe ps - I have been overwhelmed by the number of requests for the FREE OD consultation and only have a few slots left for the next quarter, so if you have been thinking about booking one in make sure to do it soon before they all go. Just head to  www.smartjoseph.com to book your session :)

In this weekly wednesday waffle I am pondering how to get the most out of your holiday through the lens of your future self, your present self and your past self. I talk about: How some problems are 'Future Joe's' problem (and not mine!) How 'Present Joe' needs to focus on whats important How 'Past Joe' needs to share the learnings and not dwell on the things that didnt work The questions I then ask you are: How do you get your brain into holiday mood, (and ensure you don't physicallysit on the  on the beach but in your head you’re still on the computer or at work) If you could do  3 things for your future self, what would they be? What 3 things could you learn from your past self, and how do you take the leaning forward?  What 3 things could you do to help your present self stay in the moment?  I would love to your answers and comments, please share them with me at joe@smartjoseph.com Feel free to also share your thoughts in the comments too! See you next week  Joe

In this weeks Wednesday Weekly Waffle I ponder what thing connects David Beckham, Michael Jorden and WestPoint Military School applicants, Black Belt martial artists and Tony Robins.  I then  waffle on about: Is grit one of the commonalities of success  How do we cultivate grit? How do we encourage it in others?  What do we do when the going gets tough? What questions can we ask ourselves around grit?  How cheerleading others and being THE voice that won’t quit can be transformative  I need to do a massive shout out to Matthew Syed (https://www.matthewsyed.co.uk/) and Angela Duckworth (https://characterlab.org/playbooks/grit/) for their inspiration in this podcast - I highly recomend checking out their webpages, books and talks.  Look forward to seeing you next week!

In this week's waffle I ponder: 'People' Leaders and 'Task' Leaders and the different strengths both approaches bring  The role of 'Chaos' and 'Order' in management and leadership (Is Chaos always bad??)  Key questions for you to ponder on to see if you can reflect on your own Chaos vs Order preference  What we can learn from 'Chaos' and what we can learn from 'Order'  and what this tells us as we continue to learn and grow Whether 'Ordered Chaos' is better or worse then 'Chaotic Order'  As always I would be delighted to hear your thoughts and feedback!  (In other news I have just launched my new website at smartjoseph.com - if you could take a look and let me know what you think and how I could improve it I would be very appreciative!)  Have a great Wednesday!