The Brave Next Step

This week, I want to speak directly to the CEOs and managing directors out there - and honestly, to anyone leading a business. How often do you check in on your HR leader? Not just on their workload, but on their wellbeing? HR carries an invisible weight that so often goes unseen. They hold space for everyone else through restructures, grievances and endless waves of organisational change, but rarely have a space to process their own emotional load.HR professionals deserve the same kind of reflective support that therapists and coaches receive - a safe, structured space for supervision where they can process what they’re holding. That’s what I’m committed to creating. So, if you’re a CEO or leader, I’m asking you to make this a priority. Give your HR team permission, budget and time to access proper support. When they thrive, your whole organisation does too.  Highlights:(00:46) – A call to CEOs: are you checking in on your HR leaders?(02:10) – The unseen emotional weight of the HR profession(04:00) – My personal experience with burnout and what it taught me(06:20) – Why HR needs supervision spaces, not just strategy(08:10) – What real support could look like in practice(09:30) – A direct invitation to CEOs to take actionConnect with Emma:LinkedInWebsiteThis Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

What kind of leader are you when no one’s watching? In this episode, I’m talking about what it really means to lead from within - starting with who you are, what you stand for, and the values that shape your decisions. I share the story of how a misalignment between my personal values and my corporate role pushed me to make one of the biggest pivots of my life, and how clarity on my values became the foundation of my leadership.If you’ve ever felt that quiet tug of dissatisfaction or wondered why certain situations feel off, this episode will help you see what your inner compass might be trying to tell you.  Here are the highlights:Why “leadership from within” is the only place to start (01:20)The moment I realised my values and work didn’t align (05:15)How knowing your triggers reveals what you truly value (09:00)Simple questions to uncover what matters most to you (10:45)Why your personal values shape your leadership impact (13:00)Connect with Emma:LinkedInWebsiteThis Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

In this episode, I share a few powerful leadership lessons inspired by my recent trip to India. What began as a family adventure turned into an unexpected reflection on culture, adaptation, and legacy. From the overwhelming chaos of the streets to the quiet brilliance of the Taj Mahal, I found myself thinking deeply about what it means to lead, to adapt, and to leave something meaningful behind. This is a conversation about how quickly we adjust to new environments, the power of preserving craftsmanship, and why true leadership is measured not just by impact in the moment, but by the legacy that lasts long after we’re gone.  Here are the highlights:Adapting to the unknown and finding your footing (03:20)What chaos teaches us about leadership (05:10)The artistry and legacy behind the Taj Mahal (07:45)Passing down skills across generations (09:04)Why legacy matters in leadership (11:00)Reflecting on leaders who shaped us - for better or worse (12:10)The question every leader should ask: what will I leave behind? (13:25)Connect with Emma:LinkedInWebsiteThis Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

In this episode, I’m talking about one of the trickiest balances in leadership - knowing when to step in and when to step back. Inspired by a moment with my son’s sports coach, I reflect on how leaders can help others learn to make decisions without taking over. We explore how coaching through questions, rather than instructions, can create real ownership, accountability, and growth within a team.I share practical examples and coaching prompts you can use right away to shift from “telling” to “asking,” build trust, and empower your people to take confident action - even when mistakes happen. If you’ve ever found yourself wondering whether to guide, protect, or let go, this episode will help you find that sweet spot between leadership and learning.  Here are the highlights:When to let others take responsibility (02:30)The parenting–leadership connection (04:12)How to coach through questions, not answers (08:45)Handling mistakes without blame (10:45)Why curiosity creates growth (12:20)Encouraging accountability through empathy (13:40)Connect with Emma:LinkedInWebsiteThis Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

In this solo episode, I explore a perspective that might surprise you - that the solution to burnout isn’t always rest. Drawing on my own experience of hitting burnout as an HR leader, I share why stepping back isn’t always enough, and how real recovery often requires deeper reflection, change, and courage. Using insights from Nick Petrie’s research on the three degrees of burnout, I unpack how to recognise what stage you’re in and what kind of response will actually help you heal.From setting boundaries to rethinking your purpose and even making bold life changes, this episode offers practical wisdom for leaders who are tired of running on empty. If you’re questioning whether a holiday is really what you need - or if it’s time for something more transformative - this conversation will give you both clarity and compassion as you take your next brave step.Here are the highlights:Sobering stats on leadership and HR burnout (01:34)Understanding the three degrees of burnout (5:00)My personal story: from thriving to survival mode (7:29)When rest wasn’t enough (10:00)The power of boundaries and saying no (12:30)Building a business aligned with my values (15:00)Why self-reflection, not escape, is the real medicine (17:01)Connect with Emma:LinkedInWebsiteThis Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

“You can’t teach an old dog new tricks.” We’ve all heard it, but is it really true? In this episode, I share why that phrase is more myth than fact, and how lifelong learning is not only possible but essential for leaders. Drawing on fresh research from the IMF and what it means for an ageing workforce, I explore how our brains and bodies remain more capable than we think, and why mindset and practice matter more than age.I also dig into how neuroplasticity works, why instant gratification holds us back, and the practical ways leaders can keep learning - whether that’s through new experiences, creativity, or meaningful social connection. If you’ve ever caught yourself thinking “it’s too late for me,” this conversation will challenge that belief and give you permission to see growth as a lifelong journey.Here are the highlightsWhat research says about ageing and brainpower (02:00)Why lifelong learning is always possible (04:30)The truth about brain training myths (07:10)Leadership, mindset, and permission to grow (09:20)Link to the IMF Article - https://www.imf.org/en/Publications/fandd/issues/2025/06/sustaining-growth-in-an-aging-world-bertrand-grussConnect with Emma:LinkedInWebsiteThis Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

Failure is never fun in the moment, but what if it could be the thing that makes you stronger? In this episode, I sit down with Peter Mols to talk honestly about the brutal lessons of failure, the pain of losing it all, and the resilience that comes from getting back up. We explore how focus, vulnerability, and simple daily habits can transform setbacks into fuel for growth.Peter shares the raw story of building a business too young, too fast, and how it led him into depression before he found his way back. We talk about why resilience matters more than perfection, why failure isn’t the end unless you quit, and how leadership really starts with leading yourself. This is an inspiring, no-fluff conversation that will leave you thinking differently about what it means to fall and rise again.  Here are the highlightsFrom big dreams to rock-bottom reality (05:47)The painful lessons of a first failed business (06:22)Why focus beats chasing shiny ideas (14:05)The truth about pain, resilience, and entrepreneurship (16:21)How daily habits build armour for tough times (22:36)Reframing failure and rewriting the story (33:33)Recovery can be simple, but not always easy (38:06)Pete’s brave next step (42:28)Connect with Peter:https://www.linkedin.com/in/petermols/Connect with Emma:LinkedInWebsiteThis Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

In this reflective episode, I sit down with Ben to explore the role of feelings in leadership and work. We talk about how emotions don’t switch off when you walk through the office door, how they influence our relationships, and why dismissing them can lead to burnout. I share my own experiences of trying to suppress emotions early in my career, and how learning to see feelings as data has completely shifted the way I work and lead.Together we explore the impact of personal transitions, how unspoken emotions can shape organisational culture, and why giving space for reflection matters so much. From small shifts, like noticing the energy in a room, to bigger lessons around burnout and resilience, this conversation is a reminder that feelings aren’t a weakness, they’re a source of insight and connection.Here are the highlights:Starting with how we’re really feeling (03:17)When personal transitions spill into work life (04:59)The old advice that led me to suppress emotions (10:00)Why bottling up feelings can fuel burnout (15:00)Seeing feelings as data, not distractions (21:36)Small interventions that shift the energy in a room (30:30)Connect with Emma:LinkedInWebsiteThis Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

Feedback can feel daunting, but it doesn’t have to be. In this episode, I share how leaders can create feedback conversations that feel supportive, specific, and truly helpful. Instead of focusing on what you can’t control, I walk through what you can - from preparation and intention to the environment you set.I also introduce the SBI model as a simple framework to give feedback that’s clear, thoughtful, and actionable. By treating feedback as a conversation rather than a monologue, you’ll build trust, encourage growth, and set the tone for a stronger team culture.Here are the highlights:Why leaders often over-focus on what they can’t control (01:22)The mindset shift that changes everything about feedback (03:46)How the SBI model makes feedback clear and actionable (07:55)Turning feedback into a conversation, not a lecture (10:40)Creating safety and trust to support team growth (13:10)Connect with Emma:LinkedInWebsiteThis Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

Feedback can be one of the hardest parts of leadership, but it’s also one of the most powerful ways we grow. In this episode, I share why great leaders don’t just give feedback, they model how to receive it first. I walk through what it takes to create a safe space for others to be honest with you, how to listen without getting defensive, and why gratitude and reflection are essential if you want people to keep sharing valuable insights. If you want to strengthen your leadership and build trust with your team, this episode will give you practical steps to start today.Here are the highlights:Why feedback feels uncomfortable (01:48)Checking if you’re ready to receive it (03:10)The power of active listening (05:25)Showing gratitude before reacting (08:44)Asking open-ended, non-defensive questions (10:37)Separating the message from the messenger (13:15)Connect with Emma:LinkedInWebsiteThis Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

This week, I sat down with the brilliant Dr. Erica Bowen, and wow, did we cover some ground. We talked about trauma, why it’s not just a “soft” topic, and how it shapes the way we show up as leaders and colleagues. Erica shared powerful insights on creating workplaces that feel safe, the emotional toll carried by HR and people leaders, and why doing the inner work is non-negotiable if you want to lead well. It’s honest, practical, and full of those “oh, that makes sense now” moments. If you care about leading with courage and humanity, this one’s for you.Here are the highlights:Understanding trauma: More than just being “nice” (07:38)Trauma-informed leadership: Start with yourself (11:18)Change and safety: Why resistance isn’t always about stubbornness (22:56)The hidden load of HR: Carrying everyone else’s emotions (29:57)The learning obsession: Using it to help others change (40:11)Erica’s brave next step: Trusting herself through change (46:06)Connect with Erica:https://uk.linkedin.com/in/dr-erica-bowenConnect with Emma:LinkedInWebsiteThis Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

Power. It’s a word that stirs up all kinds of thoughts, and in this episode, I share my reflections on what it really means in leadership and in life. From my grandmother’s fearless influence to lessons from Jacinda Ardern, I explore the four types of power - personal, instrumental, projected, and official - and how they show up in the roles I play as a coach, facilitator, and parent. I talk about the delicate balance between power and authority, what happens when we underuse or overuse our influence, and why becoming comfortable with our own power is essential for leading bravely.Here are the highlights:The four types of power and why they matter (2:37)Lessons on influence from my grandmother (4:10)Balancing power and authority in leadership (10:25)Managing projected power in coaching and consulting (12:40)Reflections on women, power, and societal perceptions (17:00)Connect with Emma:LinkedInWebsiteThis Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

Overthinking can feel like leaving your thoughts in the oven until they’re burnt to a crisp or stuck in a washing machine that never stops spinning. In this episode, I share two memorable metaphors to help you spot when your mind’s running in circles, plus a simple process to break the cycle. Using my THINK acronym, I show how to test your thoughts, create space, and turn mental energy into productive action. If you’ve ever wished you could stop overanalysing and start moving forward, this one’s for you.Here are the highlights:The Thought Oven Metaphor (1:12)The Thought Washing Machine Metaphor (2:11)The Process of Managing Overthinking (3:41)Applying the THINK Acronym (4:21)Connect with Emma:LinkedInWebsiteThis Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

In this episode, I’m diving into how our own thinking can trip us up - especially when it comes to leadership. If you’ve ever found yourself overthinking a situation or stuck in a loop of unhelpful thoughts, you’re not alone. I’ve been there too, and I know just how much those patterns can hold us back.I break down four common “thinking traps” that I see a lot in leadership coaching: black-and-white thinking, labelling ourselves with negative words, and what I call “smog” words.These patterns aren’t just frustrating - they can seriously get in the way of how we lead, connect, and make decisions.We can’t necessarily stop these thoughts from popping up, but we can learn how to manage them. So take a listen to learn how to spot these patterns in your own thinking.Here are the highlights:Personal Experience with Overthinking (0:47)Common Thinking Patterns in Leadership (2:36)Labelling and Should Statements (6:04)Managing Thinking Traps and Patterns (8:29)Techniques to Disrupt Thinking Patterns (10:28)Connect with Emma:LinkedInWebsiteThis Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

In this episode, I’m exploring what effective listening really means - and why it’s so much more than just hearing someone’s words. I walk through the three key types of awareness in listening: focusing on ourselves (which we all default to), tuning into the other person, and sensing the environment around us.I share some of my own struggles and learnings from coach training, where I realised just how often I was still focused on my own thoughts, rather than fully listening to the other person. The shift didn’t happen overnight - it took conscious effort to turn off my internal commentary and get curious about what others were really saying (and not saying).So, what kind of listening are you practicing most right now? This episode is your nudge to check in and maybe even stretch into new listening territory.Here are the highlights:Focusing on the Other Person (1:31)Benefits of Conscious Listening (4:25)Tuning into the Environment (5:54)Practical Exercises for Effective Listening (10:53)Connect with Emma:LinkedInWebsiteThis Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

In this episode, I’m reflecting on the power of triads - why three doesn’t have to be a crowd, but a source of energy, creativity, and balance. A trip with two close friends reminded me how transformative a group of three can be, and I’ve seen this play out in my business since hiring Ben. Together, with Mind Values Leadership as our “third pillar,” we’ve built something bigger than either of us alone.Triads can be tricky, though. Without awareness and communication, power imbalances and conflict can creep in - I’ve seen it happen in teams and matrix organisations. But when managed intentionally, the dynamic creates space for new perspectives and deeper collaboration.If you’re working within a triad, ask yourself: are you nurturing that connection or letting assumptions get in the way? For me, three isn’t a crowd - it’s where the magic often begins.Here are the highlights:Personal Reflection on the Proverb (1:50)Triadic Relationships in Leadership (4:17)Historical and Developmental Context of Triadic Relationships (7:12)Benefits and Challenges of Triadic Relationships (10:51)Practical Tips for Managing Triadic Relationships (14:43)Connect with Emma:LinkedInWebsiteThis Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

In this episode, I sat down with Lisa Ventura, whose journey through the cybersecurity industry is nothing short of incredible. Lisa shared how a career pivot from entertainment led her into tech, and how she’s now a leading voice in cyber awareness and advocacy - especially for women and neurodivergent professionals.We talked about her powerful story of resilience, rebuilding her life after personal loss, bullying, and abuse. Lisa spoke openly about being autistic and how her diagnosis helped her better understand herself and harness her strengths in an industry that often overlooks people like her.We also got into the realities of narcissism, imposter syndrome, and how Lisa’s turned her lived experiences into books, advocacy work, and upcoming training to support others.If you're someone who’s ever felt like an outsider, or you're navigating leadership while holding parts of yourself back, this conversation will remind you that your differences are your power.Here are the highlights:Lisa's Journey into Cybersecurity (4:11)Challenges in the Cybersecurity Industry (8:21)Lisa's Personal Journey and Resilience (11:21)Advice for Overcoming Imposter Syndrome (22:14)Lisa's Passion for Advocacy and Support (28:10)Connect with Lisa:Linkedlnhttps://lisaventura.co.uk/Connect with Emma:LinkedInWebsiteThis Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

Ever found yourself feeling a certain way but not quite sure if it’s actually yours to carry? In this episode, we’re talking about what happens when we absorb other people’s emotions, how to spot when it’s happening, and what to do about it. It’s something I’ve wrestled with in my own leadership journey, so I’m bringing you a real example and some simple tools to help you figure out - “is this feeling mine?” Let’s unpack it together.Highlights:(01:08) Do feelings belong in leadership?(04:40) The power of vulnerability at work(08:02) Feelings are data, not drama(11:56) Not every emotion you feel is yours(16:40) The feelings wheel is your secret weapon(20:05) Process or absorb? You get to chooseConnect with Emma:LinkedInWebsiteThis Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

In this episode, I talk about projection - the invisible ways we pass our emotions onto others without saying a word. It’s something we all do, especially under pressure, and as leaders, it can shape our teams more than we realise.I share real-life examples of how projection shows up in business and how I’ve caught myself doing it too. I also explore how to notice when someone is projecting onto you, and how to hold your boundaries without taking it on.This one’s all about building self-awareness and recognising what’s yours - and what’s not. See you next week for part two, where we’ll go deeper.Here are the highlights:Understanding Body Language (0:48)Introduction to Projection (4:12)Impact of Projection in Leadership (7:03)Recognising and Managing Projections (12:27)Personal Examples of Projection (14:03)Connect with Emma:LinkedInWebsiteThis Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio

In this episode, I’m joined by my brilliant friend and former HR colleague turned Sunday Times Bestselling author, Jennie Godfrey.Jennie shares how her journey into publishing started with a dog walk and a spark of an idea that wouldn’t let go. We talk about the fear and doubt that shows up - especially that nagging “Who am I to do this?” voice. -and how she pushed through with grit, humour, and a lot of trust.We also explore how Jennie’s experience in recovery has shaped her approach to writing, resilience, and living a values-led life. It’s an inspiring reminder that bravery doesn’t mean having no fear - it means doing it anyway.This episode is a must-listen if you're wondering what your next step could look like, or if you're craving the courage to finally take it.Here are the highlights:Jenny Godfrey's Leadership Journey (1:04)Transition from Corporate Life to Writing (4:11)Challenges and Influences in Becoming an Author (6:53)Holding Your Nerve and Overcoming Doubts (9:16)The Role of Addiction and Recovery in Writing (24:05)Advice for Younger Selves and Future Plans (28:27)Links for Jennie:https://www.instagram.com/jennie.godfrey/?hl=enhttps://www.penguin.co.uk/authors/296111/jennie-godfreyConnect with Emma:LinkedInWebsiteThis Podcast is proudly produced by Wavemakers Audio