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/
Do you know that feeling when you're asked a question, you’re under pressure, so you reach for the nearest answer?Or when you're in a meeting and someone says "let's not overcomplicate this" or "we just need to make a decision" and something inside you knows you're moving too fast, but the momentum carries you forward anyway?This episode explores what Kate Christiansen calls "the Answer Trap," that invisible current pulling us toward quick closure when what we actually need is better thinking. Kate shares how our brains, when faced with disruption and complexity, default to comfort-seeking patterns that feel like progress but actually limit our capacity to navigate what's really happening. What if the biggest risk we face isn't making the wrong decision, but stopping our thinking too soon?Kate Christiansen is a ‘cognitive detective’ who's spent decades helping leaders think more clearly when it matters most. Having lived through disruptive environments her entire career, she's developed an uncanny ability to see patterns in complexity that others miss. Kate is the author of "The Answer Trap," a book that names something we've all experienced but never had language for. In this episode, you'll discover:How to recognise the five "autopilot" thinking patterns that drag us toward premature answersWhy disruption makes us crave closure and how this creates a cycle of reactive decision-makingHow to switch from autopilot to "copilot" by partnering with your brain rather than being controlled by itWhy asking "What am I thinking right now?" is the simplest way to break free from default patternsHow AI both amplifies the answer trap and offers new ways to enhance our thinkingWhy the "dodo effect" threatens our cognitive abilities and what we can do about itHow to create "surface piercing questions" that move beyond comfortable answersWhy slowing down in conversations actually accelerates better outcomesTimestamps:(00:00) - The Dodo Effect and Outsourcing Thinking(10:57) - The Answer Trap: Understanding the Problem(20:17) - The Relationship with AI: A Double-Edged Sword(27:39) - Understanding Autopilots in Decision Making(32:20) - Breaking Free from Autopilot Thinking(46:09) - The Power of Naming the Answer TrapOther references:Curly Conversations for Teams Book| Kate ChristiansenThe Answer Trap | Kate ChristiansenThe Thrive Cycle | Kate ChristiansenGrowth Mindset | Carol DweckChat GPTYou can find Kate at:Website: www.katechristiansen.com.auLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katechristiansen/Check out my services and offerings
Ever found yourself in a conversation where someone's perspective seems completely wrong to you? Where your first instinct is to correct them, challenge them, or prove your point? What if that instinct is actually blocking you from real connection and genuine influence?This solocast explores a powerful encounter on a flight that challenged everything about how we engage with differing viewpoints. You'll discover why everyone's perspectives make perfect sense to them, even when they seem completely at odds with your own beliefs. Understanding this changes everything about your ability to connect and lead.Through a candid story about a conversation on US politics and South Africa, I'll show you how curiosity beats critique every time, and why meeting people where they're at without judgment opens doors that argument slams shut. This isn't about agreeing with everyone – it's about expanding your own perspective and building the kind of understanding that creates real influence.You'll learn:Why your first instinct to correct someone's "wrong" viewpoint limits your leadershipHow to listen for understanding rather than listening to respondThe difference between proving your point and improving your viewpointWhy meeting people where they're at is essential for genuine connectionHow expanding your perspective gives you greater awareness of the complex world we're leading inPractical ways to ask questions that deepen understanding rather than create defensivenessWhy curiosity and judgment can't coexist – and which one actually creates influenceWhether you're navigating difficult conversations at work, trying to understand different perspectives in your community, or simply wanting to become a more effective communicator, this episode will shift how you approach every interaction where viewpoints differ.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 most courageous leadership decision you ever make isn't about charging forward, but about stepping aside? And what if the key to authentic influence isn't having all the answers, but mastering the paradox of deep confidence paired with genuine curiosity?This episode explores the delicate balance between ego and humility that defines transformational leadership. We dive deep into how brutal self-honesty can become your greatest strength, why emotional intelligence is no longer optional for leaders, and how creating space for others to contribute might be the missing piece in your leadership approach.Andrew Little is a figure who redefined political courage in New Zealand by making one of the gutsiest calls in the country's political history: resigning as Labour Party leader just weeks before an election to make way for Jacinda Ardern. A former union leader turned politician, Andrew brings a unique perspective on leadership forged through decades of navigating complex stakeholder relationships, from representing workers to serving as a cabinet minister. His journey from a conservative household to progressive leadership offers profound insights into how our views can evolve while our core values remain steadfast.You'll discover:How to balance confidence with "wonderance": the art of remaining curious while holding firm convictionsWhy reading your opponents' views strengthens rather than weakens your positionHow to create psychological safety where no viewpoint is considered "dumb" and everyone has access to leadershipWhy the phrase "you're either there to make decisions or make friends" misses the point of collaborative leadershipHow to process significant setbacks without letting them derail your purpose or self-worthWhy showing appropriate emotion in leadership is a superpower rather than a weaknessHow to navigate opposing views by finding shared values and common groundWhy the question "what is the why?" becomes your most powerful tool for building understandingTimestamps:(00:00) - The Paradox of Leadership(11:18) - The Decision to Step Aside(14:39) - Processing Emotions in Leadership(20:44) - The Role of Collective Leadership(26:00) - Navigating Opposing Views(30:33) - The State of Leadership TodayOther references:1981 Springbok Tour in New ZealandAndrew Little resignation as Labour LeaderEngineering, Printing and Manufacturing UnionAndrew Little to run for Wellington MayoraltyYou can find Andrew at:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrewlittle-nz/Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/andrewlittlenz/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andrewlittlenzBlueSky: https://bsky.app/profile/andrewlittlenz.bsky.socialX : a...
Have you ever found yourself speaking at cross purposes with someone, searching for that elusive connection point that might unlock meaningful progress?What if the most powerful leadership practice isn't about getting straight to business, but about genuinely meeting people where they're at first?In this solocast episode, I share a story from Papua New Guinea that changed how I think about building trust and connection. When a head of HR literally threw my 360-degree feedback report in the bin, I had a choice: push harder or find another way in.What happened next taught me something profound about what I call "I-matter conversations" - those moments when someone feels truly seen and heard, not for what they can deliver, but for who they are.You'll discover:Why connection before content transforms resistance into opennessHow to recognise when someone needs to feel they matter before they'll engageThe power of patience and genuine curiosity when building relationshipsWhy investing time in "I-matter conversations" is leadership, not just nicenessHow small moments of authentic listening can unlock breakthrough conversationsWhether you're facing resistance from a team member, trying to build trust quickly, or simply wanting to create more meaningful connections in your leadership, this story will change how you approach those challenging relationship moments.Sometimes the longest route to getting things done is actually the shortest.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 you think makes you qualified to lead is actually limiting your impact? And what if the version of leadership you've been trying to perfect isn't even yours to begin with?This episode explores how authentic leadership begins with claiming your own space to be you, rather than becoming a caricature of someone else's approach. We discover why recognising your agency isn't about gaining permission from others, but about remembering the power you already possess and learning to wield it with intention.Nicola Nation is the former CEO of the Ākina Foundation, a leader who at age seven wrote to her parish priest demanding girls be allowed to serve on the altar, with aspirations of becoming the first female pope. Her journey from that bold seven-year-old to a purpose-driven executive offers profound insights into how we can break free from the "should" and "have to" stories that constrain us. You'll discover:How shifting from obligation to desire transforms your leadership effectivenessWhy creating space for yourself actually creates space for others to thriveHow to recognise when you're operating from over-responsibility versus empowered choiceWhy being a "ruthless prioritiser" is essential for sustainable leadershipHow to identify and move through the fear that keeps you playing smallWhy "hell yeah, within a container" becomes your framework for big decisionsHow small friction changes (like logging out of LinkedIn) can reclaim your attentionWhy curiosity about others becomes a pathway to unexpected wisdomTimestamps:(00:00) - Introduction(10:24) - Transforming Leadership: From Should to Want(12:23) - Creating Space for Others and Yourself(14:42) - The Scary Journey of Being Yourself(26:40) - Navigating Life's Hell Years(30:07) - Embracing Fear and Opportunity(33:11) - The Journey to Purpose-Driven LeadershipOther references:Derek Sivers: https://sive.rs/n“Things You Can See Only When You Slow Down: https://www.amazon.com/Things-Only-When-Slow-Down/dp/0241298199Kaitoke Regional Park: https://www.gw.govt.nz/parks/kaitoke-regional-park/Andrew Maffet: https://dig-deeper.captivate.fm/episode/4-the-power-of-being-unhurried-what-happens-when-you-dial-up-curiosity-and-what-leadership-is-really-about-andrew-maffett/Simon Dowling: https://dig-deeper.captivate.fm/episode/18-why-creating-space-matters-more-than-efficiency-simon-dowling-on-intentional-leadership/You can find Nicola at:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicola-nation/Check out my services and offerings https://www.digbyscott.com/Subscribe to my newsletter https://www.digbyscott.com/subscribeFollow me on LinkedIn
What if the secret to finding your place in any new situation isn't about making a big first impression, but about the quiet power of simply showing up, again and again? And what if the discomfort you feel when you're the outsider is actually the gateway to genuine connection?This solocast explores the profound simplicity of consistency – how regular presence creates familiarity, familiarity builds trust, and trust opens doors you didn't even know existed. Through personal stories from a new neighbourhood café and a windsurfing beach in New Zealand, you'll discover why being a reliable presence comes before becoming a significant one.Drawing on the psychological principle of the ‘mere exposure effect’, I'll show you how exposure over time naturally creates preference and connection. This isn't about networking tactics or forced relationship-building – it's about the patient art of becoming part of the energy of what's already happening around you.You'll learn:Why the discomfort of being "new" is actually where real connection beginsHow consistency creates opportunity in ways that one-off efforts never canThe difference between being a reliable presence and a significant one – and why sequence mattersHow the mere exposure effect works in boardrooms, communities, and anywhere you want to belongWhy authentic persistence beats impressive entrances every timeThe art of joining the flow rather than forcing your way inHow to bring your authentic self into spaces regularly without being overbearingWhy patience with the process is essential for real connectionWhether you're starting a new job, joining a new team, moving to a new community, or trying to create change in your organisation, this episode will shift how you think about showing up and finding your place.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 question isn't "Where are all the leaders?" but "Where are all the responsible adults?"Today I'm joined by Kirsten Patterson, better known as KP, CEO of the Institute of Directors New Zealand and chair of the Global Network of Directors Institutes.She had an auspicious start by getting suspended from school at five for challenging the system. Yet she went on to become one of New Zealand's most respected governance leaders. In 2025 she was awarded the New Zealand Royal Honour, Member of the New Zealand Order of Merit for her services to governance and women in leadership, She’s also known for her work founding multiple diversity initiatives including Chapter Zero New Zealand, which focuses on climate governance.KP's background includes growing up in a funeral home, giving her a unique perspective from observing how humans show up during challenging times, and what actually matters when the chips are down. She's built her reputation on asking the curly questions others avoid in a world that’s chasing answers.We explore how wonder and curiosity might be the antidote to our crisis-driven world, why asking questions we don't know the answers to is a lost art, and how creating space for reflection isn't a luxury – it's essential for responsible leadership.Whether you're wrestling with uncertainty or seeking to lead with more depth and authenticity, this conversation will challenge how you think about what it means to be a grown-up in today's world.Timestamps:(00:00) - The Chocolate Fish Test: Questioning Leadership(02:10) - Where Are the Responsible Adults?(10:53) - Balancing Confidence and Wonderance(21:00) - The Role of Wonder in Leadership(34:28) - Personal Journey: From Funeral Home to Leadership(41:54) - Collective Responsibility in Developing LeadersOther references:Institute of DirectorsSusan Cain - TED TalkSusan Cain - “Quiet” bookWellington Homeless Women’s TrustWellington City MissionCranlaner FoundationKate Christiansen - The Answer Trap Book - Not yet releasedJames Miller EpisodeYou can find Kirsten at:Website: https://www.iod.org.nz/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/pattersonkirsten/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 resistance isn't something to overcome, but something to work with? And what if that uncomfortable tension you feel when facing change is pointing you toward something valuable on the other side?This solocast dives into the emotional messiness of change through the lens of a recent house move. It’s one of life's most stressful transitions. You'll discover how loss aversion creates natural tension between holding onto what we treasure and stepping into the unknown, and why this tension is is feature, not a bug, in the system..Through honest reflections on leaving my much-loved home for a fresh start, I'll share three practical approaches that helped navigate the interior world of transition. This isn't just about personal change – these insights translate directly into how you can lead your team through organisational shifts, restructures, and new directions.You'll learn:Why resistance is a signal pointing toward possibility, not an obstacle to eliminateHow loss aversion affects our ability to embrace change – and what to do about itThe power of being in motion and creating meaningful involvement during transitionsWhy acknowledging the full range of emotions speeds up the change processHow to lean into the new while honouring what you're leaving behindThree practical strategies for leading your team through change without fighting their resistanceWhy showing what's now possible matters more than pushing people to let goHow to create non-judgmental spaces for people to process transitionWhether you're facing personal change, leading organisational transformation, or simply wanting to get better at navigating life's inevitable shifts, this episode will change how you think about resistance and what lies on the other side of it.I also mention Jason Clark's "Four Doors of Change" tool. Check that out here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vPhM8lxibSUCheck 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 your perception of "unhurried productivity" isn't about someone constantly on holiday, but rather a deliberate approach to crafting a life aligned with your values?And what if the most powerful leadership practice isn't about getting things done faster, but creating genuine I-matter conversations where people truly feel seen and heard?That's what emerges in this special episode of Dig Deeper, where the tables are turned as I step into the guest chair of my own podcast. My friend Antonia Milkop takes the host role, guiding a conversation that explores the person behind the mic.We get into:Why "meeting people where they're at" transforms resistance into meaningful connectionHow burnout at 30 led to a complete reevaluation of my approach to life and workThe distinction between being "nice" versus being "kind" in leadershipWhy connection before content is the foundation of trust in any relationshipHow unhurried productivity is a state of mind, not just a state of movementWhy pivotal moments with "tough love" mentors can shape our leadership journeyHow embracing discomfort and messiness might be the gateway to our most significant growthWhether you're wrestling with busyness, curious about building trust quickly with new teams, or simply interested in the philosophy behind Dig Deeper, this conversation offers a glimpse behind the curtain that might change how you think about creating space for what truly matters.In this role-reversal episode, Antonia skillfully draws out perspectives on my journey from being a people pleaser to someone who stands for something, and why focusing on intentionality rather than constant activity leads to more meaningful outcomes.Timestamps:(00:00) - Introduction(05:16) - The Importance of Intentionality (12:09) - Pivotal People and Moments in Life(15:32) - Building Trust in Leadership(23:40) - The Power of Connection Before Content(36:27) - Unhurried Productivity: Finding Balance in Busy Lives (41:02) - Embracing Discomfort and Uncertainty in LeadershipYou can find Antonia at:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoniamilkop/Others mentioned:Cam Fink: https://www.camfink.com/Simon Dowling: https://dig-deeper.captivate.fm/episode/18-why-creating-space-matters-more-than-efficiency-simon-dowling-on-intentional-leadershipGeorgia Murch: https://georgiamurch.com/Jennifer Garvey Berger: https://www.cultivatingleadership.com/team-member/jennifer-garvey-bergerAdam Cooper: https://dig-deeper.captivate.fm/episode/14-natural-systems-nervous-systems-and-navigating-change-adam-cooperCheck out my services and offerings https://www.digbyscott.com/Subscribe to my newsletter https://www.digbyscott.com/subscribeFollow me on LinkedIn
Ever found yourself so focused on getting things done that you've completely disconnected from what you're feeling? And noticed how that numbness starts seeping into your relationships, your team dynamics, and your ability to truly lead?This episode explores the critical balance between head and heart in leadership – and why operating from just one without the other is limiting your impact. You'll discover how emotional disconnection during high-pressure periods can undermine everything you're trying to achieve, and more importantly, how to reconnect in ways that enhance both your effectiveness and your humanity.In this solo episode, I share my experience of emotional disconnection during a recent transition and how it affected my leadership. I explore the stark differences between head-only and heart-centred leadership approaches, and I share some practical steps to integrate emotional awareness into your leadership practice without sacrificing results.You'll learn:Why numbness in one area of life inevitably affects your leadership effectivenessHow to recognise when you're operating purely from the head versus connecting with heartThe difference between task-focused and emotionally intelligent leadership responsesPractical ways to schedule "heart time" and celebrate wins that create deeper team connectionHow vulnerability and courage become essential tools for authentic leadershipWhy connection becomes even more crucial during tight deadlines and high-pressure periodsCheck out my services and offerings https://www.digbyscott.com/Subscribe to my newsletter https://www.digbyscott.com/thoughts#subscribeFollow me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/digbyscott/
Do you find yourself constantly seeking clarity and certainty, even when faced with complex challenges that don't have simple answers? What if that very pursuit of certainty – that comfortable feeling we all chase – is actually blocking your growth, your learning, and your ability to create something new?This episode explores the counterintuitive idea that confusion isn't something to avoid, but rather something to value as a gateway to deeper learning. What's possible when we release our grip on needing to know and instead embrace the generative space of uncertainty? Together we consider how the most meaningful growth often happens precisely when we're willing to step into discomfort rather than rushing to make it disappear.Jennifer Garvey-Berger is a thoughtful disruptor who's constantly questioning how we might do business, relationships, family, and leadership better. As CEO of Cultivating Leadership, she's spent decades helping leaders navigate complexity and uncertainty. Jennifer brings a fascinating blend of intellectual rigor and lived experience to our conversation, including her bold experiment of buying a house with twelve friends in France to deliberately create a different way of living. In this episode, you'll discover:How confusion serves as a necessary gateway to learning and growthWhy certainty, despite feeling comfortable, often blocks our ability to discover new possibilitiesHow good conversations create something neither person had thought of beforeWhy crafting a meaningful life requires questioning default assumptionsHow deliberate disruption can lead to more authentic ways of working and livingWhy play and exploration remain essential elements of leadership at any ageHow creating intentional communities can challenge our assumptions about work/life separationWhy our idealism is not something to outgrow but rather a strength to cultivateTimestamps(00:00) The Value of Confusion(08:47) The Quest for a Better World(14:55) Living Fully vs. To-Do Lists(32:18) Creating a Unique Living Environment(40:03) Growth Through Difficulties(42:28) Giving Less FucksOther references:David Whyte: https://www.goodreads.com/quotes/9100423-what-you-can-plan-is-too-small-for-you-toRichard Bach: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Illusions_(Bach_novel)Oliver Burkeman: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Four_Thousand_Weeks:_Time_Management_for_MortalsVito Perrone: https://www.gse.harvard.edu/ideas/news/11/09/hgse-remembers-vito-perroneThomas Huebl: https://thomashuebl.com/Heidi Brookes: https://www.cultivatingleadership.com/team-member/heidi-brooksAndrew Maffett: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/8dc40ef3-104d-4a48-a38e-495ed4650abbAdam Cooper: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/48bf4ecf-f533-47d3-943e-2445135d473dYou can find Jennifer...
What if the most powerful thing you could do as a leader isn't to step in and save the day, but to step back and create space for others to shine? And what if your obsession with being the hero is actually preventing your team from reaching their potential?This episode looks at one of the most challenging transitions in leadership: moving from hero to host. You'll discover why the traditional heroic model of leadership, where you're the one with all the answers, solving every problem, is unsustainable and ultimately limits both your impact and your team's growth.I'll share practical insights on how stepping away strategically can enhance your leadership effectiveness, create self-sustaining systems, and build the kind of collaborative culture where everyone thrives. This isn't about becoming passive or disengaged. It's about becoming the kind of leader who creates ecosystems rather than dependencies.You'll learn:How to recognise when your heroic tendencies are holding your team backThe difference between stepping away and stepping out – and why timing mattersPractical strategies for creating psychological safety that allows others to step upHow to build sustainable systems that don't depend on your constant interventionWhy focusing on who you build is more important than what you buildSpecific tools and approaches to make the hero-to-host transition successfullyHow to celebrate team successes in ways that reinforce collaborative cultureThe art of identifying opportunities to step back without losing momentumWhether you're burning out from trying to be everything to everyone, or you're ready to create lasting impact beyond your direct involvement, this episode will reshape how you think about what leadership really means.Download the Plan on a Page mentioned in this episode here: https://www.digbyscott.com/planonapageCheck 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/