Culture of Leadership

What if you could reshape your life with just one powerful choice? Join us as we sit down with Richard Flint, a man whose life journey is a testament to resilience and personal transformation. Abandoned by his adoptive parents at the tender age of 16, Richard faced a crucial decision: let adversity define him or rise above it. He chose the latter, and now he shares his story with the world, emphasizing the significance of living for tomorrow with clarity and purpose. His experiences offer profound insights into leadership, personal growth, and the power of choice in the face of life's challenges. Check out the episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/YJliOskjkGo SHOW HIGHLIGHTS (00:00) Episode Intro (02:15) Transforming Life Through Resilience and Determination (14:14) Overcoming Adversity With Resilience (23:10) Leadership, Passion, and Purpose (31:15) Cultivating Resilience and Personal Responsibility (40:45) Building Exceptional Leadership Through Partnership (55:05) Developing Quality Leadership Through Accountability (01:01:43) Cultivating Effective and Authentic Leadership (01:17:21) Key Traits of Confident Leadership Do you want to be a more confident leader? Get your FREE workbook at https://thecultureofleadership.com/confident-leader-workbook/ -- LINKS --(When available, we use affiliate links and may earn a commission!) *** PRODUCTS WE LOVE *** (and use!)✅ Check them out at https://thecultureofleadership.com/products-we-use/ *** BOOKS WE LOVE *** (and read!)✅ Check them out at https://thecultureofleadership.com/books-we-recommend/ Subscribe to Culture of Leadership podcast:Apple Podcast: https://apple.co/3oPVZhUSpotify: https://spoti.fi/2LvUjvIGoogle Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3aZlglJCastro: https://bit.ly/3yILSRoPocket Casts: https://bit.ly/34nqOSzPodchaser: https://bit.ly/2SxL15FiHeartRadio: https://ihr.fm/3xVl4fwDeezer: https://bit.ly/3w1gvibPodcast Addict: https://bit.ly/3hiY3w7 ResourcesCulture of Leadership Website (https://thecultureofleadership.com/​)Brendan Rogers LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/bjrogers01/​)Culture of Leadership Podcast Website (https://thecultureofleadership.com/podcast/​)Culture of Leadership LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-culture-of-leadership/)Culture of Leadership Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/tcolpodcast​)Culture of Leadership Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/thecultureofleadership/) DISCLOSURE: We often link to products & services we regularly use and think you might find helpful. Wherever possible we use referral links. This means, if you click one of the links and make a purchase we may receive a small commission or other compensation. We're fans of Amazon, and many of our links to products are links to those products on Amazon. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and related sites.

Ethan Mulholland got to a desperate point in his addiction and said to himself, “I’m either going to kill myself… or ask for help.” Fortunately, he chose the latter.  Check out the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U9l2a9Uz9rg Show Highlights00:00 Introduction02:30 Growing in Western Sydney10:57 Ethan's experience when he broke his arm13:40 The dark road22:34 Family awareness of Ethan's problem26:50 Ethan's decision to ask for help31:00 Ethan at The Glen Rehab37:25 The new Ethan49:08 Ethan's biggest challenge52:00 From The Glen's client to an employee58:00 Running as part of Ethan's journey01:08:00 Ethan's way to inspire others01:10:02 Ethan's tattoos01:13:25 Impact on Ethan's leadership journey -- LINKS --(When available, we use affiliate links and may earn a commission!) *** PRODUCTS WE LOVE *** (and use!)✅ Check them out at https://thecultureofleadership.com/products-we-use/ *** BOOKS WE LOVE *** (and read!)✅ Check them out at https://thecultureofleadership.com/books-we-recommend/ Subscribe to Culture of Leadership podcast:Apple Podcast: https://apple.co/3oPVZhUSpotify: https://spoti.fi/2LvUjvIGoogle Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3aZlglJCastro: https://bit.ly/3yILSRoPocket Casts: https://bit.ly/34nqOSzPodchaser: https://bit.ly/2SxL15FiHeartRadio: https://ihr.fm/3xVl4fwDeezer: https://bit.ly/3w1gvibPodcast Addict: https://bit.ly/3hiY3w7 ResourcesCulture of Leadership Website (https://thecultureofleadership.com/​)Brendan Rogers LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/bjrogers01/​)Culture of Leadership Podcast Website (https://thecultureofleadership.com/podcast/​)Culture of Leadership LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-culture-of-leadership/)Culture of Leadership Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/tcolpodcast​)Culture of Leadership Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/thecultureofleadership/) DISCLOSURE: We often link to products & services we regularly use and think you might find helpful. Wherever possible we use referral links. This means, if you click one of the links and make a purchase we may receive a small commission or other compensation. We're fans of Amazon, and many of our links to products are links to those products on Amazon. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and related sites.

What drives a person to choose service over lucrative opportunities? Join us as we explore this compelling question with Oak, a retired Army officer who has dedicated his life to serving others. From his impressive 23-year military career to his impactful post-retirement work, Oak shares his journey and the principles that have guided him. We'll hear about his deployments, disaster relief efforts, and his pivotal role in managing a food bank during the BP oil spill crisis. Oak also gives us a sneak peek into his upcoming book, focusing on the keys to achieving success through hard work and perseverance. Oak’s story takes us from the battlefields to the boardrooms, highlighting his knack for mediation and conflict resolution. Check out the episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/_2al538eECI CHAPTERS(00:00) Episode Intro(02:10) Podcast Experiences and Military Career(07:44) Negotiating Peace and Transitioning Back(18:48) Building Leadership Legacy Through Mentorship(30:57) Building Trust and Making a Difference(36:36) Inspiring Leadership and Mentorship Discussion(40:17) Building Trust and National Identity(50:07) Leadership, Mentorship, and Action(59:21) Building Leadership Through Mentorship(01:07:11) Leadership Legacy and Mentorship Aura Do you want to be a more confident leader? Get your FREE workbook at https://thecultureofleadership.com/confident-leader-workbook/ -- LINKS --(When available, we use affiliate links and may earn a commission!) *** PRODUCTS WE LOVE *** (and use!)✅ Check them out at https://thecultureofleadership.com/products-we-use/ *** BOOKS WE LOVE *** (and read!)✅ Check them out at https://thecultureofleadership.com/books-we-recommend/ Subscribe to Culture of Leadership podcast:Apple Podcast: https://apple.co/3oPVZhUSpotify: https://spoti.fi/2LvUjvIGoogle Podcasts: https://bit.ly/3aZlglJCastro: https://bit.ly/3yILSRoPocket Casts: https://bit.ly/34nqOSzPodchaser: https://bit.ly/2SxL15FiHeartRadio: https://ihr.fm/3xVl4fwDeezer: https://bit.ly/3w1gvibPodcast Addict: https://bit.ly/3hiY3w7 ResourcesCulture of Leadership Website (https://thecultureofleadership.com/​)Brendan Rogers LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/bjrogers01/​)Culture of Leadership Podcast Website (https://thecultureofleadership.com/podcast/​)Culture of Leadership LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-culture-of-leadership/)Culture of Leadership Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/tcolpodcast​)Culture of Leadership Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/thecultureofleadership/) DISCLOSURE: We often link to products & services we regularly use and think you might find helpful. Wherever possible we use referral links. This means, if you click one of the links and make a purchase we may receive a small commission or other compensation. We're fans of Amazon, and many of our links to products are links to those products on Amazon. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and related sites.

Today I’m speaking with Cassandra Gordon, founder of Growth Culture.  Cassandra shares her vision of what leaders, companies, and workplaces need to do to evolve into thriving businesses with safe, happy employees.  It’s not complicated, but the hierarchical old-school thinking that persists in our society is blocking these transformations. 

Cobe Williams had every reason to give up. Following his father's imprisonment and death, alongside his mother's struggle with drug addiction, the odds were stacked against him. Yet, Cobe's journey from the harsh realities of street life to becoming a community leader is a testament to resilience and the transformative power of relationships. In this episode, we explore Cobe's incredible path to redemption, focusing on the significance of conflict resolution and the essential nature of neutrality. We delve into stories that highlight the profound impact of family connections, like a poignant court encounter between a father and his young son that ignited a life-changing shift. Cobe also underscores the importance of positive role models and mentors in steering individuals away from a destructive path and towards a life filled with purpose. Building safer communities through violence intervention is more than a mission; it’s a necessity. As Cobe shares his personal experiences and successes, including the positive reception of his book, we examine the critical need for greater resource allocation in community empowerment efforts. By listening, understanding, and never giving up on individuals, we can foster real change. This episode is a call to action, urging us all to support and invest in the continuous work required to make a lasting impact on our communities. Check out the episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/Kf4Tk9TEPOU

 I’m joined today by Matt Kelly, Head of Regional Operations North for Healthe Care.  Matt started his career in health as a registered nurse working in Newcastle and the UK. He has worked in Intensive Care Units around Sydney in both clinical and management roles, before moving into executive roles in the public and private sectors across Australia. Tune in to hear inspirational stories and examples of how Matt’s hospital group, (with nearly 700 team members across the country), and Matt as a leader, creates and cultivates culture, trust and transparency, and promotes the organisation’s values and best practices.  Matt is passionate about not just “patient-centered care” but  “person-centered care” and the use of values to drive the culture of an organisation. The Healthe Care organization of hospitals promotes empathy and compassion for staff and patients, to ensure the best experience for all.  In 2019 Matt was the first Australian invited to speak at the worlds leading Patient Experience Summit held by Cleveland Clinic in Ohio. In 2018 and 2019 he was named Business Leader of the Year by the Gosford/ Erina and Coastal Chamber of Commerce, the Central Coast Regional Business Leader of the year in 2019, and the NSW Business Leader of the Year by the NSW Business Chamber in 2019. Stay tuned for future episodes of The Culture of Leadership! Discussion Points Trust and culture change - “The Triangle of T” Matt’s definition of culture Showing Brendan around the hospital and explaining their values Matt’s early days of training as a nurse - as CEO he knew what he was talking about Observing the culture at Matt’s 8 different hospital environments Reward and recognition feels different for everyone - being able to choose is important Not just “Patient-centered care” but “person-centered care” The 5 Values across 17 hospitals: Best Practice Best Experience Respect It’s Personal Positive Energy Creating your organisation’s values - be persistently consistent Using the WorkPlace platform for the internal teams Teambuilding and transparency The Leader’s role and impacting culture Personality tests and results Matt’s Dad, working as a nurse, and previous hospital leaders have had the greatest impact on Matt as a leader  Challenges and stress during the pandemic Three Key Takeaways: Leaders make time to observe culture Leaders show persistent consistency Leaders know culture change is a slow burn What will you do today to improve your organisation’s culture? Let me know on my socials! Resources: Matt Kelly LinkedIn Healthecare Website Brendan Rogers LinkedIn Brendan Rogers Website The Culture of Leadership YouTube Channel The Culture of Leadership LinkedIn The Culture of Leadership Website The Culture of Leadership Facebook The Culture of Leadership Instagram 

Unlock the secrets to global business success with Brad Sugars as he takes us through his extraordinary journey from Brisbane to Las Vegas. Discover why Las Vegas is more than just neon lights and casinos, and how Brad strategically transformed a local catering business into a booming restaurant and bar. Brad also opens up about the profound impact Jim Rohn had on his life, sharing timeless lessons on self-improvement and the power of continuous learning through reading. Learn the art of building great companies by focusing on developing exceptional employees. Brad breaks down effective scheduling and management techniques, emphasizing the critical role of leadership and mentorship in nurturing decision-making skills. With his insights, you’ll understand why investing time and energy into training is essential for cultivating a motivated and capable team. Brad’s philosophy is clear: the success of a company hinges on the strength of its people. Stay ahead of the curve by embracing digital transformation and the power of AI in business. Brad explains why rethinking your strategies every seven to ten years is crucial to staying competitive, highlighting the importance of video content and online presence. He also shares personal stories about his passions and fatherhood, revealing how these experiences have shaped his perspective on patience and the value of time. Wrapping up, Brad discusses the joys and challenges of foster parenting and balancing a demanding career with hands-on parenting. Tune in for a wealth of insights and inspiration from one of the leading figures in global business coaching. Check out the episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/p7Yi3KzF7Pw

Nick Bendel is the owner of Hunter & Scribe, a copywriting and content marketing agency that writes blogs, social media posts, emails, ebooks and media releases for small businesses. Nick publishes a daily marketing newsletter called Nick’s Marketing Tips. When he’s not working, Nick is kept busy with his #500lunches project, which involves having lunch with 500 strangers in five years. Nick also loves sport, reading, history, travelling and public speaking. The focus of our conversation today is Nick’s journey to have 500 lunches with strangers. Website & Social Media Website: https://500lunches.net/ Business Website: https://hunterandscribe.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-bendel     If you have any questions for Brendan around this episode or generally around culture, leadership or teamwork, feel free to contact him here.

Unlock the secrets to mastering social media and crisis communication with insights from Evan Nierman, the CEO and founder of Red Banyan. In this compelling episode, we explore how to share with care and post with purpose, while emphasizing the potential dangers of oversharing. Evan delves into the profound impact of cancel culture on individuals and businesses, providing real-life examples that highlight the need for cautious online behavior. With his extensive background in crisis management, Evan offers invaluable tips on how to avoid and mitigate the risks associated with social media exposure. Join us as we recount the evolution of Red Banyan, from overcoming early challenges to executing a strategic pivot during the COVID-19 pandemic. Evan shares lessons from losing a significant client and the importance of not relying too heavily on one revenue stream. We also explore the nuances of balancing strategic communications with crisis management and the importance of being prepared for any eventuality. Hear how Red Banyan survived the financial hit from the pandemic and repositioned itself as a crisis-specific agency, and learn from Evan’s experience in rebranding and relaunching the company’s website. In our final segments, we shift our focus to proactive leadership and communication strategies. Discover how confident leaders can anticipate challenges and maintain regular engagement with their audience to foster a culture of openness and trust. We highlight the significance of having a well-prepared crisis plan and upholding core values to build resilient organizations. Learn from Evan’s expertise on managing reputation and communication effectively, ensuring long-term success for both individuals and businesses. This episode is packed with practical advice for navigating the complexities of modern social media and crisis communication. Tune in for a conversation that equips you with the tools to safeguard your reputation and thrive in today’s digital landscape. Check out the episode on YouTube: https://youtu.be/LHNurlIvWe8

What if hope and happiness were more than just abstract concepts? Join me as I sit down with Dr. Randy Ross, the brilliant mind behind “Fireproof Happiness,” a book inspired by the trials of the COVID pandemic. Randy takes us on a journey through the powerful interplay between hope and happiness, invoking John Templeton’s timeless wisdom that “happiness pursued eludes, but happiness given returns.” Explore the transformative shift from a VUCA (volatility, uncertainty, complexity, and ambiguity) world to a CAVU (ceiling and visibility unlimited) mindset and discover how hope is not just an emotion, but a dynamic motivational system crucial for achieving success. Our discussion doesn’t stop there. We delve into the foundational beliefs necessary to cultivate hope—positivity, responsibility, agility, and reality—and provide actionable strategies to nurture these traits. Learn how to turn obstacles into opportunities with the simple yet profound question, “What does this now make possible?” Discover the significance of personal narratives and find inspiration from historical figures who have triumphed over adversity. Randy’s insights help us understand how to harness these stories to regain hope and take personal responsibility for crafting our own life stories. In our final segments, we explore the creation of remarkable organizations through conscious awareness and the essential role of emotional health in the workplace. Dr. Randy Ross shares his mission of enhancing employee engagement through relationally rich environments. We discuss the importance of value-based goals, conscious capitalism, and the necessity of fostering a leadership culture rooted in vulnerability, transparency, and trust. This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom for leaders, dreamers, and anyone seeking to build a hopeful and happy life. Tune in and be inspired to create not just a successful career, but a meaningful and fulfilling journey. Check out the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hj5MXN0NY0Q

Unlock the secrets of a self-made business maven as Belinda, a woman with a four-decade entrepreneurial legacy, shares her story of determination and the power of a strong work ethic. Her journey from breaking gender norms to becoming a business leader is a beacon for anyone looking to ignite their own entrepreneurial spirit. Listen as Belinda divulges how customer service excellence and her transition from musician to business powerhouse have not only shaped her success but also influenced her children’s approach to their careers and passions. Distractions are the nemesis of productivity, and in today’s episode, we tackle them head-on with strategies that every entrepreneur should arm themselves with. From the ‘Power Hour’ to dedicating just 15 minutes a day to income-producing tasks, we cover practical ways to build momentum and make consistent progress toward your business goals. The art of goal setting takes center stage as we delve into the psychological challenges entrepreneurs face, sharing anecdotes that celebrate the triumphs of clarity and persistence. Wrapping up, we dissect the art of sales and the foundational pillars of business success, underscoring the essence of commitment and resilience. We highlight Belinda’s experiences and my own insights on identifying client needs, the indispensability of business analytics, and the power of organization. Moreover, we discuss the value of empowering leadership through collaboration and the celebration of victories, big and small. Whether you’re a burgeoning entrepreneur or a seasoned professional, this episode is laden with wisdom to propel your business and personal growth to new heights. Check out the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eRT475HxjZ0

Unlock the secrets to forging deep business connections with our latest episode, featuring a renowned hospitality and events professional who turned the aftermath of 9/11 into a catalyst for his career. Explore the intersection of authenticity, trust, and the hospitality mindset that this expert believes are critical for any business’s success. From the power of remembering names to the importance of aligning your company with likeminded businesses, this episode is brimming with actionable insights that will help you create lasting impressions and build stronger relationships. Dive into the subtleties of networking and customer engagement as our guest outlines the transformative effects of mentorship and the significance of a service-centered heart in the workplace. Discover how even the most introverted among us can captivate customers through the art of listening and asking the right questions. Learn how mentorship shapes business strategies and personal development, drawing upon wisdom from industry giants like Walt Disney and the Ritz-Carlton. The conversation also reveals how to enhance experiences in settings as diverse as live events, casual lunches, or even a massage clinic, further proving that the essence of hospitality can thrive in any environment. Wrapping up, we grapple with the challenges and opportunities presented by social media in modern business practices. Our guest reflects on the importance of maintaining privacy in an age where our digital footprint is ever-expanding, offering a sincere appreciation for the ability to influence and guide others through shared expertise. With personal tales of success and stumbling blocks, this episode is not only an education in hospitality but also a masterclass in leveraging your past to enrich your business’s future. Check out the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lg3tjwPdzfM

Listen in as we explore the essential facets of human-centered leadership in healthcare, inspired by the groundbreaking work of Dr. Bill Maples and his colleagues, Dr. Bridget Duffy and Dr. Ron Paulus. My journey in healthcare has been revolutionized by their insights into creating a culture that cherishes human connections, both within our teams and with patients. We unpack the profound impact of leading with empathy, presence, and vulnerability, and discuss the ripple effects of this leadership style on small and medium businesses, underlining the power of building trust and respect in every interaction. This episode also zeroes in on the significance of being fully present in business settings. Apologizing for tardiness and giving someone your undivided attention can change the entire dynamic of a meeting. I share actionable strategies to help leaders foster an attentive and focused team environment, and the transformational effects of cultivating gratitude in the workplace. You’ll learn how these practices not only increase personal efficiency but also deepen the trust and connection you have with colleagues, shifting workplace dynamics from the brink of burnout to a state of thriving. Wrapping up, our conversation with Jennifer delves into the blend of technical acumen and human-centered leadership. She sheds light on the development of a people operating system that champions character, competence, and connection. We also discuss the shift from traditional feedback methods to a forward-looking approach that capitalizes on individual strengths, and how these methods can be applied to enhance both leader and patient experiences. Join us as we reflect on the joy of leadership that comes from seeing others succeed and the anticipation of Jennifer’s contributions to the field. Check out the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1dM8zC5Jgp0

Growing up amidst the hustle of cattle sales and the wisdom of a financially savvy mother, Ben Law, our Financial Bloke, knows a thing or two about life’s wealth beyond the dollar. With heartwarming candor, Ben recounts how his rural roots and a confrontational health scare steered him from the familiarity of farm life to the dynamic realm of finance. This episode is a tapestry of tales, from the hard-won lessons of entrepreneurship to the pivotal changes that come with life’s curveballs, all threaded together by the common theme of discovering true prosperity. Leading a team and building trust don’t come from textbooks; they’re learned in the field, which is precisely where Ben has cultivated his expertise. He reveals the nitty-gritty of transforming The Financial Bloke from a one-man show to a thriving advisory, navigating the complexities of leadership, and fostering a team ethos grounded in authenticity. The conversation, often punctuated with laughter, takes us through the intricacies of aligning with the right professionals, the strategic game of wealth creation, and the art of embracing “I don’t know” to evolve as a trusted leader. But it’s not all business; we’re exploring the balance beam of life. Delving into the planning needed for a worry-free retirement, the rigors of setting up generational wealth, and the pressing need to prepare the heirs of family legacies. Ben passionately shares why prosperity isn’t just about financial security—it’s about crafting a life rich in experiences, relationships, and health. So, join us as we unwrap the lessons from Ben Law, the man who wears the financial truths of his past as a badge of honor, and learn how to navigate your own journey to holistic success. Check out the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=86015DGENNE

Tax maven and mentorship advocate Marna Ricker sits with us to demystify the world of global tax and share the vibrancy of her journey from Ohio State to EY’s global vice chair of tax. A beacon of intelligence and enthusiasm, Marna encapsulates the essence of dynamic leadership, breaking down the stereotype that tax professionals lack excitement. She generously pulls back the curtain on the intricate balance of professional growth and the personal life challenges she’s faced, showcasing how mentorship has been a cornerstone of her success and the success of those she’s guided. Our conversation with Marna branches out into the universal importance of mentorship across diverse fields, from sharpening the skills of collegiate athletes to fortifying family dynamics. It’s the candid stories of triumph over vulnerability, such as a career-defining mistake turned into a valuable lesson, that highlight the significance of transparent communication and strong relationships. Marna’s anecdotes inspire business owners and professionals alike to embrace mentorship as a tool for learning, resilience, and empowerment on their paths to achievement. In the latter half of our dialogue, we explore the art of nurturing talent to the pinnacle of partnership and the subtle navigation of office politics with authenticity and empathy. Marna’s journey is a testament to the enduring value of mentorship at every career stage and the profound impact of authentic leadership. Her reflections remind us that growth often lies in the courage to step beyond the familiar while holding steadfast to our values—a lesson as poignant for seasoned professionals as it is for those just beginning to carve their path.

Unlock the full potential of your leadership skills as Agile expert Angela takes us through the essential art of prioritization. Peel away the layers of productivity myths, especially multitasking, and learn why sequencing tasks could be the secret to your team’s success. Angela’s insights on gender dynamics in task switching and the cultural variations in understanding priorities provide a fresh perspective on managing workloads effectively. Join us for a deep dive into the power of trust and communication in leadership. Discover how these cornerstones shape the prioritization process within teams and directly influence performance. By exploring customer impact, regulatory compliance, ROI, and other industry-specific factors, Angela illustrates how leaders can strategically determine task order and adapt priorities. This episode is a treasure trove of strategies for fostering collaboration, reducing the risk of project misalignment, and turning every meeting into a productive powerhouse. Embark on a transformative journey that challenges conventional time management and embraces structured conversations and time boxing. Hear firsthand how Angela’s personal experiences with Agile principles radically improved her workflow and how these lessons can be applied to your leadership style. We wrap up with a candid look at the growth opportunities that stem from tackling unfinished tasks and learning from failures, gearing you up for a streamlined and focused approach to leadership in 2024. Check out the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7kfSywsRv1M

Join me as I sit down with the remarkable Andrew Stotz, the mind behind the "My Worst Investment Ever" podcast, who not only inspired the concept for this series but also graced us as our first guest.

As a seasoned leader with a remarkable journey through the realms of football, military service, and the corporate world, our guest this week has garnered invaluable wisdom from commanding teams on the field and in the boardroom. His candid storytelling transports us from the disciplined lessons of the Marine Corps to the challenges of adapting to the digital landscape in his current mission—coaching aspiring leaders. With his Stronger U program, he sheds light on the pressing need for tailored leadership development, revealing how the character and actions of leaders deeply influence organizational culture. It’s a conversation that unpacks the uncomfortable truth that many leaders fall short of embodying their company’s values, and how fear and a deficiency in formal training contribute to this shortfall. Throughout the episode, we peel back the layers of leadership, examining its simplicity yet profound impact on decision-making and talent management. Our guest emphasizes the potency of discipline and character—forged in his early years and honed through experiences in martial arts and military service—in shaping one’s approach to both business and personal growth. We navigate the complexities of instilling these qualities, reflecting on how a leader’s clarity and transparency can simplify strategies, and why nurturing self-trust is essential to embodying one’s values amid organizational pressures. Closing out our enlightening dialogue, we tackle the resilience necessary to lead through crises, an aspect our guest knows all too well from his leadership during the tumultuous times of COVID-19 cutbacks. He shares the poignant challenges faced by war veterans and the dire need for support systems paralleling those provided by St. Jude’s for children. Concluding with insights on mentoring and building confidence, our guest leaves us not only with strategies for climbing our own leadership mountains but also with the profound realization that shaping the leaders of tomorrow is a commitment that extends well beyond the boardroom. Check out the episode on YouTube.

Have you ever wondered what lurks behind the glossy veneer of recruitment ads and smooth-talking headhunters? Join us as Marnie Jones and I unravel the ethical conundrums of the recruitment industry, shedding light on the commission-based models that might just prioritize cash over compatibility. Marnie Jones of TalentX, is flipping the script, putting a premium on retention and role performance, ensuring that the recruiter’s success is intrinsically linked to the candidate’s thrive and the client’s satisfaction. Crafting job advertisements is an art form she has mastered, one that invites truly passionate candidates to step into roles that challenge and excite them. Moving beyond listing benefits to spotlighting opportunities that tap into the candidate’s drive for problem-solving and growth. In the same vein, Marnie’s approach to hiring is about precision—a meticulous process that evaluates potential hires on every front, from knowledge to personality, leaving no stone unturned and no client dissatisfied. Finally, she tackles the nitty-gritty of reference checks, a step too often glossed over but pivotal in the quest for authentic talent representation. It’s a dance of connecting the dots, understanding past performances, and projecting future success. Our conversation is candid, our approach is unyielding, and our results speak for themselves—confidence in our recommendations is paramount. Each story shared, each strategy discussed, is a step toward redefining recruitment where integrity isn’t optional—it’s the foundation. Check out the episode on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L6NX40v5IPY

Cooking under pressure can feel like a high-wire act, but when our guest, a personal chef with a past in engineering and butchery, faced the ultimate test of feeding Harry Styles and his crew on short notice, he found his true calling. This episode unwraps the layers of leadership and authenticity in the culinary world, guided by our guest’s journey from the logical realm of engineering to the sensory-rich trenches of butchery and beyond. His tales of resourcefulness, like catering in incomplete homes, underscore the adaptability and quick thinking that are the secret sauce to culinary success. The kitchen isn’t just a place for preparing food; it’s a melting pot of memories and emotional bonds. We stir into the narrative the transformative experience of families cooking together, transitioning from wariness to a symphony of collaboration. The episode serves up advice on involving everyone, from the market to the dining table, enhancing family ties and confidence along the way. Through our guest’s reflections, discover how the shared ritual of meal prep can fortify a family’s unity and turn dinner time into a treasured event. Leadership can be found in the most unexpected places, even in the rhythm of chopping vegetables or the ritual of handwashing. We savor the joy that comes from embracing the simple tasks that, when done with presence, become meditative practices fuelling gratitude and connection. Our guest plates up his philosophy on team building and customer service, carving out how a leader in the food industry can transform challenges into opportunities for growth. Closing the episode, we’re left with a lasting taste of how staying true to oneself is the ultimate ingredient for success, in the kitchen and in life. Check out the episode on YouTube.