Dig Deeper

What if the most lasting leadership isn't about the monuments you build but about the quiet spaces you create for others to thrive? Many senior leaders wrestle with this tension: how do we create impact that endures beyond our tenure without becoming the very "founder effect" that stifles the organisation's future? We know intellectually that leadership is about developing others, yet our systems still reward personal visibility over collective growth, heroic intervention over sustainable culture.This conversation with Professor David Murdoch offers a different lens. We explore what happens when leadership becomes less about being essential and more about making yourself unnecessary. Through his experience moving from technical expert to Vice Chancellor, from academic to industry leader, and through his two years running a remote hospital in Nepal, David reveals how unconventional detours often become our most formative experiences. His practice of building guitars (30 of them, all given away to friends around the world) isn't a hobby separate from his leadership, it's the creative renewal that sustains it. What's possible when we stop treating our "opposite world" as optional?Professor David Murdoch is an infectious disease expert, former Vice Chancellor of Otago University, and currently works with PHF Science leading organisational transformation. His father's quiet championing of women in education shaped David's approach to what I'm calling "covert mentoring," lifting others into opportunities without fanfare or expectation of recognition. In this conversation, you'll discover:How creative practice serves as a barometer for your work-life integration (when your mind wanders to the workshop during boring meetings, you're in a good spot)Why taking opportunities that "wreck your career" often become the best decisions you'll makeHow to build high trust, high accountability cultures through deliberate delegation and learning to let goWhy working with young people isn't just about developing them, it's about their fresh questions keeping your thinking aliveHow succession planning is the ultimate success metric (things continuing well when you're not there)Why you can't assume you have a legacy, and how that humility actually creates enduring impactHow experiences in radically different environments (like running a remote hospital in Nepal for two years) shape your leadership in ways conventional career paths never couldWhy the "founder effect" happens and what warning signs to watch for in your own leadershipTimestamps:(00:00) - Introduction(03:02) - The Creative Outlet: Guitar Building and Leadership(09:13) - The Journey from Expert to Leader(23:59) - Trusting Young Talent in Leadership Roles(32:54) - Creating Lasting Impact in Leadership(38:20) - Building a Culture of Trust(42:02) - Lessons from Nepal: A Unique Leadership ExperienceOther ReferencesNick Petrie

What if the most important measure of your leadership isn't what you achieve while you're in the role, but what continues after you've moved on? It's a question most senior leaders avoid because the answer is often uncomfortable. You've built the strategy, delivered the results, transformed the culture. But if you left tomorrow, how much of it would actually last?In this special Year in Review episode, Digby reflects on five interconnected themes that emerged from a year of deep conversations with remarkable leaders, change-makers, and systems thinkers. These aren't isolated insights, they're facets of the same question: how do we create change that endures? From understanding complex systems and shifting from hero to host leadership, to embracing unhurried productivity and living with deliberate authenticity, each theme builds toward a powerful framework for leading lasting impact.This episode is Digby's invitation to step back and see the bigger picture. Drawing on insights from over 50 conversations, personal experiences of burnout and breakthrough, and years of working with leaders across sectors, he maps a journey from crisis-driven leadership through to creating change so embedded that people don't want to go back. You'll discover:How to assess where you sit on the spectrum from crisis-driven to lasting impact leadership (and why most leaders get stuck at stage two)Why systems thinking is essential for addressing root causes rather than just treating symptoms, and how the dragonfly metaphor reframes our understanding of generational impactHow shifting from hero to host leadership transforms dependency into capability, and why your job isn't to be the answer but to create conditions where answers emergeWhy unhurried productivity isn't about slowing down but about creating spaciousness within the work itself, and how this becomes the foundation for everything elseHow living deliberately means making daily choices that align with who you truly are, not who you think you should beWhy these five themes aren't separate ideas but interconnected pieces that, when working together, create leaders whose impact outlasts their tenureHow to measure leadership success differently, focusing on what continues after you're gone rather than what you achieve while you're thereLeading Lasting Impact self-assessmentOther References:James McCulloch Podcast EpisodeDr. Richard Hodge Podcast EpisodeAdam Cooper Podcast Episode

How much of what matters most are you missing while you're listening? Not the words themselves (you're good at capturing those) but what's underneath them, between them, beyond them. Here's the uncomfortable truth: most of us believe we're better listeners than we actually are. We're busy preparing our response, managing the future, or distracted by the ping of the next urgent thing. Meanwhile, the people in front of us (the ones we're meant to be leading) are telling us everything we need to know. If only we knew how to truly hear it.In this conversation with Oscar Trimboli, we explore something deeper than communication skills. We venture into the territory of how we show up, what we say no to, and why the foundations we've already built might matter more than the future we're chasing. This is about the shift from hero to host, from infinite ambition to the surprising lightness of a ‘tour of duty’, and from listing ingredients to sharing the story of the meal.Oscar Trimboli is on a quest to create 100 million deep listeners in the workplace. He's spent decades discovering that the gap between speaking and listening isn't just about paying attention. It's about understanding that how we frame something can change what happens next. His work helps leaders see what they're missing when they focus only on the words.In this conversation, you'll discover:• Why the legacy you're creating might already exist in ways you can't yet see, and how acknowledging your past builds the foundation for what's next• How setting boundaries isn't about limitation but about the strategic clarity of knowing what you choose not to do• Why corporate funerals (literally burning what no longer serves) can create the trust that moves organisations forward when change initiatives get stuck• How the "tour of duty" mindset releases the weight of infinite responsibility and brings unexpected lightness to leadership• Why effective leaders operate as hosts rather than heroes, facilitating learning instead of performing expertise• How metaphors become mental shortcuts that help people understand the unfamiliar through the familiar, and why food and music work better than sport• Why distraction isn't just about devices but about the stories we tell ourselves when our attention wanders, and what choices we have in those moment• How "getting over yourself" enables you to serve the work rather than protect your ego, and why this shift makes everything else easierTimestamps:(00:00) - Introduction(06:39) - The Importance of Boundaries(10:32) - Navigating Change and Acknowledging the Past(19:11) - Corporate Funerals: Letting Go to Move Forward(24:41) - The Power of Rituals in Leadership(32:46) - Navigating Distractions in Conversations(42:59) - The Impact of Metaphors in CommunicationOther references:Animal Liberation OrchestraDeep Listening: Impact Beyond Words by Oscar TrimboliDeep Listening QuizYou can find Oscar at:Website: oscartrimboli.comLinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/oscartrimboliTake the Deep Listening Quiz: listeningquiz.comCheck out my services and offerings

Are you the bottleneck in your organisation? What if your greatest leadership contribution isn't solving every problem, but creating the conditions where others can thrive without you?I've been reflecting on a pattern I keep seeing in leaders—this constant pressure to prove our worth by being indispensable. Yet the organisations that truly transform are the ones where leadership doesn't depend on any single person staying in the room. This episode explores a fundamental shift: moving from proving yourself to backing yourself, and what that means for creating lasting impact.Drawing on insights from my conversation with James McCulloch, CEO of Victim Support New Zealand, I unpack what it takes to build systems that outlive your tenure, why organisations often reward heroics over sustainability, and how small, consistent choices can shift you from being the solution to creating the space where solutions emerge.You'll explore:The hidden cost of trying to prove your worth through constant interventionWhy backing yourself changes everything about how you show upWhat sustainable leadership actually looks like in practiceHow to create conditions for others to succeed rather than being the sole heroThe shift from individual heroics to building systems that thriveWhy true leadership effectiveness is measured by the capability you build in othersCheck out my services and offerings: https://www.digbyscott.com/Subscribe to my newsletter: https://www.digbyscott.com/subscribeFollow me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/digbyscott/

What if the stories we're not telling are the very ones that could shape our organisations long after we're gone? In a world flooded with AI-generated content that sounds increasingly the same, I wonder what happens to the distinctly human act of storytelling. And here's the deeper question: are we waiting too long to make the changes that matter most?This conversation explores the enduring power of authentic human stories in an age of artificial intelligence, the gift of presence in our distracted leadership, and what becomes possible when we stop gradually planning and simply flip the switch. We're examining how stories don't just communicate culture—they are the culture, coursing through organisations like lifeblood, carrying meaning long beyond our tenure. What's emerging here is an invitation to reconsider where real impact lives and how it spreads.Gabrielle Dolan is one of the world's leading experts on storytelling in business, having spent over two decades helping leaders find their authentic voice and communicate with depth through story. She's the author of eight books, including her latest Story Intelligence, which she describes as the first she's felt truly compelled to write. After a health scare prompted her to abandon gradual retirement in favour of immediate life redesign, Gabrielle now spends her time between storytelling work she carefully selects, travelling, and watching kangaroos at her holiday property in Bermagui. In this episode, you'll discover:How authentic human stories serve as the antidote to AI-generated content that lacks heart and feelingWhy the most powerful cultural change happens when leaders let stories do the heavy lifting, rather than always being the storyteller themselvesHow the practice of presence—whether watching wildlife or protecting creative time—becomes a discipline that sustains meaningful workWhy success might be better defined as freedom of choice rather than conventional measures of achievementHow stories create lasting impact by living in organizational culture long after the storyteller moves onWhy flipping the switch immediately can be more liberating than gradually planning for changeHow leaders can spot when they're needed versus when they need to focus on what only they can doWhy knowing what a value means to you personally is essential before you can authentically communicate it to othersTimestamps:(00:00) - The Role of Storytelling in an AI World(01:33) - Finding Presence in Nature(10:07) - Navigating Leadership Challenges(29:24) - The Art of Storytelling in Leadership(36:01) - The Enduring Nature of Stories(41:01) - Health Scares and Life ChoicesOther References:Story Intelligence by Gabrielle DolanSapiens: A Brief History of Humankind by Yuval Noah Harari"Maker's Schedule, Manager's Schedule" by Paul GrahamNational Australia Bank (NAB)Bermagui, New South Wales, AustraliaDig Deeper Episode 20 with Sarah Manleya...

What if the most dynamic leadership doesn't happen in the stable center or the chaotic unknown, but right at the edge between them? And what if trying to control everything is actually keeping you from discovering what's possible?In this solo episode, I explore leadership through the lens of the coast — that fascinating space where land meets sea. The intertidal zone, where stability and change collide, offers a powerful metaphor for the kind of leadership our complex world demands. I'll share why embracing the tension between control and adaptability isn't just necessary — it's where the most vital leadership occurs.You'll discover why the patterns you notice matter more than the predictions you make, how to navigate the loneliness that comes with leading at the edge, and what it means to be a lighthouse keeper who provides orientation rather than control.Whether you're feeling the pull between certainty and possibility, wrestling with forces you can't fully control, or simply curious about how to create the conditions for something new to emerge, this conversation will shift how you think about leading from the edge of things.In this episode, we explore:Why leadership exists in the dynamic space between stability and changeHow the ocean's unpredictability mirrors the challenges leaders faceWhat the intertidal zone teaches us about thriving in uncertaintyThe challenges that come with leading from the edge (and why they're worth it)Why awareness of patterns matters more than trying to control outcomesHow creating conditions for new ideas is more powerful than forcing solutionsReflective questions to guide your own leadership developmentWhat it means to be a lighthouse keeper in your leadershipCheck out my services and offerings https://www.digbyscott.com/Subscribe to my newsletter https://www.digbyscott.com/subscribeFollow me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/digbyscott/

What if the very language you use—from "my target" to "our target," from "my client" to "our client"—is either building or breaking the culture you're trying to create? And what if being constantly busy is actually preventing the very work that matters most?In this conversation, I'm catching up with my mate Colin Ellis in a traditional English pub in Winchester. Colin's a five-time best-selling author and a super practical culture consultant who's spent decades helping organisations around the world rid themselves of what he calls toxic cultures. We're exploring the tension between delivering results and creating space for what actually sustains us—both as individuals and as teams and organisations. What emerges is a powerful reminder that building great culture isn't complicated. It's about creating the conditions where people can be good humans and do good work together.Colin Ellis grew up in Liverpool in a working-class family where security was paramount. After flunking school, he found his calling in project management—not for the technical side, but for the team-building aspect. His career took him from window cleaning family business roots to leading major project departments, from Melbourne to New Zealand and back to the UK. What's shaped his work most is his observation that the best teams valued both hard work and play, both productivity and camaraderie. He's built his reputation on making the complex simple, using language that connects with people who do the work day in, day out. His mission? To rid the world of toxic cultures by teaching leaders how to build great teams.You'll discover:How a simple shift in language from "my" to "our" transforms everything about how teams show up and support each otherWhy creating permission for your team to not be busy all the time might be the most productive thing you do as a leaderHow investing in relationships and camaraderie is as important as delivering on your targets—and why Friday drinks became sacred time for Colin's highest-performing teamWhy determination matters more than having a clever strategy when you're trying to create momentumHow reading Harvard Business Review in the office was "frowned upon" but essential for Colin's growth as a leaderWhy the most productive teams are often the least hurried—and what Colin did in 2008 to create that cultureHow burnout at 31 became the catalyst for building an integrated life where work is part of the whole, not the whole itselfWhy demystifying culture change is about using language people understand, not complicated frameworksTimestamps:(00:00) - Introduction(10.39) - Individualism vs. Teamwork(27:09) - Burnout and the Path to Change(35:27) - Creating Productive Work Environments(38:34) - Redefining Productivity(41:41) - Cultural Shifts in Work DynamicsOther ReferencesOn the Road Jack Kerouac - https://www.penguin.co.nz/books/on-the-road-9780241951538Harvard Business Review - https://hbr.org/Michael Page - https://www.michaelpage.co.uk/Liverpool Echo - https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/Camp America - https://www.campamerica.co.uk/Abel Tasman Coast Track -

What if the gap between being curious and creating real change is just one small action?And what if the leadership move you've relied on your whole career is actually limiting your impact?This short episode cuts through the noise to explore three powerful distinctions that can transform how you lead. These aren't abstract theories. They're practical frameworks that help you navigate the messy, complex situations leaders face every day.You'll discover:Why curiosity by itself isn't enough, and the one action that turns wondering into wisdomThe crucial difference between knowing what to do and understanding when to do it (and when not to)How shifting from hero to host leadership creates sustainable impact and brings out the best in your teamWhy heroing might feel productive while hosting builds resilience, innovation, and genuine engagementThis is a bite-sized episode designed for leaders who want practical insights they can apply immediately. Pick one distinction, experiment with it, and notice what shifts.Whether you're leading a team meeting, navigating uncertainty, or simply wanting to deepen your leadership practice, these three distinctions offer a fresh lens on what makes leadership truly impactful.Check out my services and offerings https://www.digbyscott.com/Subscribe to my newsletter https://www.digbyscott.com/subscribeFollow me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/digbyscott/

What if the pinnacle of success you've been climbing towards is actually a trap? When you finally make partner, win the promotion, or achieve the milestone you've been chasing for years, what happens when you discover it's not the answer? When the very achievement that was supposed to bring freedom instead leaves you feeling like a rat in a mill, just surviving from one deadline to the next?This conversation explores what happens when we pause long enough to ask whether the life we're living is actually the life we want. Rachel Paris shares her journey from corporate law partnership to becoming a novelist, revealing how crisis can become catalyst, how the skills that made us successful in one domain become secret weapons in another, and why freeing up your future might mean letting go of the one you thought was already set. We get into the tension between security and creativity, physical presence and emotional presence, and what it truly means to redefine success on your own terms.Rachel Paris is a former partner at Bell Gully, one of New Zealand's most prestigious law firms, where she specialised in banking and finance for over a decade. After walking away from partnership, she became a bestselling novelist with her debut crime thriller "See How They Fall." Her sister's cancer diagnosis became the catalyst for change, prompting her to question whether surviving each day was any way to live a life. Rachel's journey from Harvard Law graduate to creative writer offers a fascinating lens on how professional skills translate across domains and what becomes possible when we give ourselves permission to begin again.You'll discover:Why the partnership track in professional services can become a trap rather than a destination, and how to recognise when you're caught in itHow to shift from physical presence to emotional presence in both work and family lifeWhy redefining success requires asking what truly sustains you rather than what society says you should achieveHow professional training in law, accounting, or other demanding fields creates unexpected advantages in creative pursuitsWhy being your own agent of change means not waiting for crisis to force your handHow to navigate the guilt and fear of letting people down when walking away from senior positionsWhy creating space for others to step up can reframe career transitions from selfish to generous actsHow the wrestle of expressing something in your own words makes us human in an age of AIOther ReferencesThe Answer Trap Kate ChristiansenHumankind by Rutger BregmanOpenAIBell Gully Law FirmSee How They Fall by Rachel ParisTimestamps:(00:00) -  From Corporate Law to Creative Freedom(23:12) - Redefining Success and Embracing Change(27:07) - The Journey of Self-Discovery(29:24) - Navigating Career Transitions(32:11) - The Impact of Legal Training on Creativity(34:33) - Creativity in the Age of AIYou can find Rachel at:Website: https://rachelparisauthor.comLinkedIn:a...

What if the quality of your leadership came down to the quality of your questions?And what if shifting just one word in how you frame a question could completely change the direction of a conversation?Most leaders ask questions to get answers. But the real power lies in asking questions that unlock thinking, creativity, and action in others.This episode introduces a practical framework for asking better questions – four simple categories that can transform how you lead meetings, drive strategy, and navigate complexity. Whether you're facilitating a team discussion, making a tough decision, or trying to move beyond surface-level conversations, these questioning techniques will shift what's possible.You'll discover:The four types of questions every leader needs to master: "what", "what is", "what if", and "what now"Why "what" questions clarify focus and set the stage for meaningful dialogueHow "what is" questions help you uncover the real issues beneath the surfaceWhy "what if" questions ignite creativity and open up new possibilitiesHow "what now" questions drive action and accountabilityA practical quadrant model you can use to structure any conversationSimple techniques for naming shifts in your questioning to enhance clarityWhy progression matters more than perfection when developing your questioning practiceThis is a short, practical episode designed to give you an immediately useful tool. The goal isn't perfection – it's progression. Pick one type of question, experiment with it in your next conversation, and notice what shifts.Whether you're preparing for a strategic discussion, wanting to deepen team engagement, or simply curious about how to facilitate better conversations, this framework offers a clear path forward.Related EpisodesKP on Breaking Out of 'Answer Mode': https://dig-deeper.captivate.fm/episode/26-breaking-out-of-answer-mode-building-collective-wisdom-and-the-village-that-raises-leaders-kirsten-patterson/Kate Christiansen on Escaping the 'Answer Trap': https://dig-deeper.captivate.fm/episode/32-escaping-the-answer-trap-and-why-slowing-down-speeds-you-up/Simon Dowling on Why Creating Space Matters More Than Efficiency: https://dig-deeper.captivate.fm/episode/18-why-creating-space-matters-more-than-efficiency-simon-dowling-on-intentional-leadership/The Questions Toolkit: digbyscott.com/questionstoolkitCheck out my services and offerings https://www.digbyscott.com/Subscribe to my newsletter https://www.digbyscott.com/subscribeFollow me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/digbyscott/

What if the secret to lasting leadership impact isn't about building your legacy, but about accepting that you're just passing through? And what if the shift from trying to prove yourself to truly backing yourself changes everything about how you show up as a leader?This episode explores how moving from a hero mindset to a host mindset creates lasting change, and why focusing on embedded impact rather than personal legacy might be the most powerful leadership practice of all. We dive into the confidence that comes with experience, the urgency that emerges from accepting impermanence, and the art of creating solutions that endure long after you've moved on.James McCulloch is the CEO of Victim Support New Zealand, where he's led one of the country's most remarkable organisational transformations. His perspective has been shaped by managing high-profile parks in the heart of London, navigating complex turnarounds, and now wrestling with the tension between ambition and balance as a seasoned leader. James brings a systems-aware approach to leadership that embraces both vulnerability and fierce determination.You'll discover:How to shift from needing external validation to backing yourself with genuine confidenceWhy thinking of leadership roles as fixed-term rather than permanent creates productive urgencyHow to build embedded solutions that create lasting impact beyond your tenureWhy moving from "my legacy" language to "our impact" transforms team dynamicsHow vulnerability among leadership teams forges stronger bonds through adversityWhy the travelling CEO who over-promises creates more damage than helpHow to balance the drive for meaningful impact with sustainable work-life integrationWhy learning from your predecessors while avoiding the trap of constant comparison mattersTimestamps:(00:00) - The Impact Over Legacy Mindset(12:15) - Shifting from Proving to Backing Yourself(21:11) - The Concept of Passing Through(32:18) - Building Lasting Change: Strategies for Sustainable Impact(37:58) - Balancing Ambition and Life: The Tension of Leadership(43:11) - The Handover: Learning from PredecessorsOther ReferencesWe are all Fixed TermSir Ashley Bloomfield on When Leaders Are Human: Navigating Complexity With IntegrityInspire GroupJim Collins and Level 5 LeadershipInternational Coach FederationInternational Parks FederationIntercontinental Hotel WellingtonGuild Hall, LondonYou can find James at:Website: https://victimsupport.org.nz/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/james-mcculloch-65a2931b/Check out my services and offerings

What if the Christmas break you're desperately counting down to won't actually fix what's broken?And what if the way we're running our years (like we run our cars, pushing hard until we desperately need a service) is the very thing keeping us stuck in this exhausting cycle?In this solocast episode, I explore why most of us are caught in an infinite loop: work hard, get exhausted, take a break, repeat. We've all navigated some gnarly challenges this year, and it's tempting to think a few weeks off will sort everything out. But here's the truth: Christmas won't fix the underlying problems.You'll learn:Why the car metaphor for productivity is sabotaging your wellbeingHow tending a plant offers a better framework for sustainable workThe distinction between downtime and due time (and why both matter)Why discovery is just as essential as delivery for doing your best workHow to reclaim more agency over your time than you might thinkWhat it means to design your life with genuine intentionHow leaders can create conditions where people actually thriveWhether you're heading into the break feeling depleted, or you're curious about creating a more sustainable rhythm for 2026, this conversation will challenge how you think about rest, renewal, and what's actually possible when you shift from running your life to designing it.This isn't about working less. It's about working differently. And it starts with questioning the beliefs we hold about productivity, downtime, and what it means to craft a life that's genuinely worth living.Check out my services and offerings https://www.digbyscott.com/Subscribe to my newsletter https://www.digbyscott.com/subscribeFollow me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/digbyscott/Life By Design Webinar: https://digbyscott.com/lifebydesignHow to Create Your Life By Design: https://digbyscott.com/thoughts/how-to-create-your-life-by-designUnhurried Productivity: https://digbyscott.com/thoughts/fresh-insights-on-unhurried-productivity

What if the most powerful thing you could do as a leader isn't delivering results or driving change—but simply seeing and hearing the people around you?Today I'm joined by Jenny Brown. Jenny grew up in apartheid South Africa, classified as a ‘coloured’ person, where she learned what it means to navigate between worlds—not quite belonging fully anywhere, but developing an extraordinary ability to see and be in the spaces between.She’s got this superpower to read what's really happening in a room - not just what's being said, but what's being felt, what's being avoided, and what needs to be addressed.She’s also learned to call out what needs to be called out, doing so with a skillfulness that keeps people whole. She understands that leadership isn't about having all the answers - it's about creating space for others to be truly seen and heard.If you've ever wondered how to create genuine belonging in your organisation, or how your own formative experiences might become your leadership superpower, this conversation will change how you think about what leadership really means.Timestamps:(00:00) - The Power of Observation in Leadership(18:01) - The Journey from Independence to Interdependence(24:05) - Navigating Difficult Conversations(27:00) - Calling Out BS with Compassion(34:18) - Creating Conditions for Belonging(40:47) - The Broader Impact of BelongingOther references:The Anxious Generation by Jonathan HaidtTogether by Dr Vivek MurthiBelonging by Owen EastwoodFierce Conversations by Susan Scotta...

What if the life you're living by default could become the life you're crafting by design?And what if the difference between drifting and deliberately creating your future comes down to one intentional weekend with the person who matters most?In this solocast, I share what happened when my partner Gillian and I carved out a weekend to create our 'Life by Design' plan. It wasn't about rigid blueprints or perfect forecasts. It was about getting intentional with what we want to create together, and how we might navigate the messiness of making it happen.You'll discover:Why life by design is the antidote to life by default, and how to shift from one to the otherThe simple process we used to map out our future without losing space for spontaneityHow clustering your ideas into themes makes overwhelming possibilities feel manageableWhy reflecting on what's worked (and what hasn't) is crucial before planning what's nextHow having a shared plan makes everyday decisions easier and less energy-drainingWhy financial planning isn't just about spreadsheets, but about creating freedom for what mattersThe tools and templates you can use to start your own life by design journeyWhether you're wrestling with feeling like life is happening to you rather than being shaped by you, curious about how to align your daily choices with your bigger vision, or simply wanting to create something meaningful with your partner, this conversation offers a practical glimpse into what's possible when you get deliberate about designing the life you actually want to live.If you'd like the tookit and to learn how we use it, go to https://digbyscott.com/lifebydesignCheck out my services and offerings https://www.digbyscott.com/Subscribe to my newsletter https://www.digbyscott.com/subscribeFollow me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/digbyscott/

What if words aren't enough to truly connect with others?And what if there's an entire dimension of communication we're missing, one that could transform how we lead, how we listen, and how we create trust in our teams?Today I'm joined by Jordan Harcourt-Hughes, an abstract painter, writer, and communications specialist who's spent fifteen years leading creative teams across the Asia-Pacific. Jordan's journey began with what she calls her "early midlife crisis" at nineteen. A pivotal moment when she realised that traditional language wasn't the complete picture for human connection.We explore the fascinating concept of vibrational language.How our bodies communicate beyond words, why singing in Monday morning meetings might be more revolutionary than you think, and what happens when we learn to listen not just with our ears, but with our entire being.Whether you're leading strategy sessions that feel stuck, or simply curious about creating deeper connection in your work, this conversation will change how you think about the spaces between what we say and what we truly communicate.Timestamps:(00:00) - Introduction(01:27) - The Concept of Vibrational Language(21:06) - Listening Beyond Words(25:37) - Creating a Trusting Environment(28:27) - The Importance of Recalibration and Connection(30:19) - The Challenge of Letting Go(38:51) - Finding Energy and Inspiration for ChangeOther referencesDown and Out in Paris and London | George OrwellLet Your Life Speak | Parker J. PalmerThe Let Go: https://www.digbyscott.com/thoughts/the-let-goDeal in Energy: https://www.digbyscott.com/thoughts/deal-in-energyYou can find Jordan at:Website:https://jordanharcourthughes.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordanharcourthughes/Check out my services and offerings https://www.digbyscott.com/Subscribe to my newsletter https://www.digbyscott.com/subscribeFollow me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/digbyscott/

Feeling burnt out and overwhelmed by constant change? You're not alone, and more importantly, you're not broken. In this thought-provoking episode, Digby explores the paradox at the heart of modern leadership challenges: how the problems we face are both completely beyond our control and entirely within it.Drawing on Viktor Frankl's timeless wisdom about choosing our attitude in any circumstance, Digby unpacks why structural forces often feel insurmountable and how brilliant leaders get trapped thinking they just need to push harder. Through the powerful metaphor of swimming against a fast-flowing river, he reveals the hidden choices available to us even in the most challenging situations.You'll discover the difference between external structural forces (like organisational culture and economic pressures) and the internal ones we carry within us (our assumptions, beliefs, and the stories we tell ourselves). Most crucially, you'll learn how shifting from being subject to change to becoming an agent of change can transform both your leadership and your wellbeing.Whether you're a CEO feeling the weight of responsibility or anyone navigating complexity and burnout, this episode offers a fresh perspective on finding your way to the riverbank when the current feels too strong.Check out my services and offerings https://www.digbyscott.com/Subscribe to my newsletter https://www.digbyscott.com/subscribeFollow me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/digbyscott/

What if the very thing that makes you uncomfortable about being seen is exactly what's holding you back as a leader?Today I'm walking by the ocean and sitting in a Wellington playground with Cam Fink, a videographer who's spent years on the other side of the lens, observing what happens when leaders step into visibility.We explore why being comfortable on camera isn't really about cameras at all – it's about your willingness to be authentically seen. Cam shares what he's learned about energy, presence, and human connection from filming thousands of people, and why the skills that make you compelling on video are the same ones that make you an engaging leader.Whether you're leading a team meeting or recording your first LinkedIn video, this conversation will change how you think about showing up authentically in any situation where you need to influence and inspire others.Cam Fink is a videographer, director, and the creator of the brilliantly named course "Be Less Shit on Camera." He's also my go-to person for helping me feel comfortable and confident whenever there's a camera pointed in my direction.Timestamps:(00:00) - The Need for Human Connection(06:02) - The Role of Energy in Leadership(17:47) - Visibility and Connection in Leadership(24:51) - Shifting from Bystander to Activator(32:11) - Embracing Authenticity and Vulnerability(36:12) - Navigating Negative Feedback and Self-PerceptionOther references:Santo, Sam and Ed's Cup FeverSanto CilauroThe CastleThought Leaders Business SchoolPeter CookMatt ChurchCol FinkTony WilsonSimon DowlingYou can find Cam Fink at:Website: https://www.camfink.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/camfink/Course:

What if the constant firefighting and crisis management that fills our days is actually stealing our chance to create something truly meaningful? And what if the most important work we can do isn't about solving the next problem, but about building something that lasts well beyond our time here?This episode explores how we can shift from reactive mode to creating lasting impact. Drawing from fresh insights gathered during 10 weeks of travel across five countries, Digby shares three powerful examples of enduring legacy: 3,500-year-old Bronze Age buildings in Sardinia that still stand strong, Royal Designers whose creations continue to enrich our lives decades later, and a volunteer marine rescue service that's been saving lives for over four decades.You'll discover why our modern culture of constant change and precious time traps us in reactive patterns, how to lift your head above the daily fires to focus on what truly matters over the long term, and practical ways to start building your own lasting impact today. Whether you're leading a team, running an organisation, or simply seeking to create something meaningful, this conversation will challenge you to think differently about the legacy you're creating.This episode marks the beginning of a deeper exploration into what it takes to lead lasting impact and offers a glimpse into new services designed to help senior leaders focus on creating enduring change.You’ll explore:Travel as a catalyst for fresh perspectivesThree examples of lasting impact: buildings, design, and serviceWhy reactive mode steals our chance for lasting impactQuestions to consider for your own lasting legacyCheck out my services and offerings https://www.digbyscott.com/Subscribe to my newsletter https://www.digbyscott.com/subscribeFollow me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/digbyscott/

What if the conversations we're avoiding at work are exactly the ones that could transform everything?And what if there's a crucial difference between being nice to people and being truly kind to them – one that could revolutionise how you lead?Today I'm joined by Georgia Murch, founder of Can We Talk and someone who's spent over 25 years mastering what she calls "the dance" of building better cultures. Georgia's take is that most of us have lost the art of disagreeing well, and she's got some fascinating insights about why we're so conflict-avoidant – and what's possible when we learn to push through that discomfort.We explore why people hear your content but smell your intent, how to move from being a "magpie" or a "mouse" in conflict to becoming more like a "meerkat," and the surprising business impact of developing a solid meditation practice.Whether you're tiptoeing around difficult conversations or wondering how to create psychological safety while still holding people accountable, this conversation will change how you think about the courage required to truly serve others.Timestamps:(00:00) - The Difference Between Nice and Kind(17:51) - The Art of Disagreeing Well(27:09) - Embracing the Meerkat Within Us(31:38) - Meditation as a Tool for Clarity(34:50) - Leading with Freedom and Authenticity(43:03) - The Opportunity Beyond Conflict AvoidanceOther references:Brené Brown - “Dare to Lead”Thought Leaders Business SchoolThe Rest is Politics PodcastJennifer Garvey-Berger EpisodeAdam Cooper EpisodeYou can find Georgia at:Website: https://canwetalk.coLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgiamurch/Check out my services and offerings https://www.digbyscott.com/Subscribe to my newsletter https://www.digbyscott.com/subscribeFollow me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/digbyscott/

What if the clarity you're seeking isn't about having all the answers, but about cultivating deep conviction in what matters most to you?And what if the wobbly feeling you have when charting your own course isn't a sign you're on the wrong path, but evidence you're choosing authenticity over easy?In this solo episode, I reflect on a conversation that sparked some deep thinking about conviction and direction. Someone who knew me 25 years ago remembered my clarity of purpose during a time when I was actually feeling quite wobbly and uncertain. It got me wondering about the difference between confidence and conviction, and why one matters more than the other for sustained leadership impact.You'll explore:How major burnout at 32 led to life-changing clarity about what truly matteredWhy conviction can grow even when confidence feels shakyThe questions that form the foundation of authentic commitment to yourselfHow blind alleys and course corrections actually strengthen your sense of directionWhy comparing yourself to others' corporate trajectories misses the point entirelyThe relationship between authentic living and sustained impactHow to honour your values even when the path feels uncertainWhether you're questioning your current direction, feeling the strain of relentless effort, or simply curious about what it means to stay true to yourself over decades, this conversation offers a framework for cultivating the kind of conviction that becomes fuel for meaningful change.Sometimes the path that feels most uncertain in the moment becomes the only path that could have been truly yours. This episode explores why that paradox might be exactly what your leadership journey needs.Check out my services and offerings https://www.digbyscott.com/Subscribe to my newsletter https://www.digbyscott.com/subscribeFollow me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/digbyscott/