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How to Lead with Kate Waterfall Hill
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How to Lead with Kate Waterfall Hill

Author: Kate Waterfall Hill

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A guide for CEOs, founders, business owners and leaders who want the perfect balance of authority and empathy when it comes to leading their people.

I'm Kate Waterfall Hill, a leadership coach, author and the creator of "Linda, the bad manager", my alter ego on social media who inspires better leadership by showing us how not to lead.

I’ve worked with CEOs and founders for the whole of my 30+ year career, I am one myself and I’ve coached hundreds of leaders to elevate their skills.

This podcast will be available weekly and will contain simple, immediately actionable tips, tricks and habits that will set you up for success, so you can stop worrying about the people management side of running your business. We'll take a look at how "Linda, the bad manager" tackles a situation and then move to delivering some genuine insights and top tips of how to handle the same topic with finesse and elegance.

You’ll find "How to Lead" on all the usual podcast channels and there’s even a video version on YouTube.

I’ve also written a best-selling book, called “How to Lead”, which is a great accompaniment to the podcast.

Please subscribe or follow to ensure you don’t miss out on future episodes. If you enjoy the show, please like, leave a review and share with your fellow leaders to help spread the word. I truly appreciate your support.

For more information on my coaching programmes please visit my website: www.waterfallhill.co.uk.

If you have any suggestions for future episodes, please email me at hello@waterfallhill.co.uk.

Follow me on all the usual social media channels - just look for Kate Waterfall Hill (or Linda, the bad manager). Join over 200,000 other followers on YouTube, TikTok, Facebook and LinkedIn.
45 Episodes
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Boundaries

Boundaries

2025-09-0413:47

In this episode of the 'How to Lead' podcast, Kate shares her insights on setting and maintaining boundaries as a leader. Drawing from over 30 years of experience in business and leadership development, Kate discusses the importance of boundaries to protect time, energy, and well-being, with actionable steps for leaders to strengthen their boundaries and model healthy leadership for their teams.Episode Highlights:00:00 Introduction to Boundaries00:40 Linda, the Bad Manager02:11 Defining Boundaries02:40 Challenges in Setting Boundaries04:07 The Cost of Weak Boundaries04:52 Benefits of Healthy Boundaries05:32 How to Set Boundaries06:49 Communicating Boundaries08:08 Maintaining Boundaries08:51 People Pleasing and Boundaries10:46 Boundaries as a Leader11:27 Practical Steps to Strengthen Boundaries12:54 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsJOIN MY COMMUNITY: Subscribe HERE⁠⁠ if you’d like new podcast episodes delivered right to your inbox along with weekly tips, tools, and musings. Have you subscribed yet?It would mean so much to me if you would SUBSCRIBE, SHARE OR REVIEW the How to Lead podcast wherever you get your podcasts!Useful links:Free Resources and more information on Kate's coaching programmes Buy the "How to Lead" bookConnect with Kate on LinkedInFollow Kate on TikTokContact Kate
Psychological safety

Psychological safety

2025-08-2812:22

Psychological safety and its impact on team performance, innovation, trust, and retention, is the subject of today's podcast. Kate discusses common barriers to psychological safety, such as fear of judgment and inconsistent leadership behaviour, and outlines six research-backed strategies to foster a safe environment for open dialogue and risk-taking. Episode Highlights:00:00 Introduction to Psychological Safety00:33 The Importance of Psychological Safety01:12 Linda, the Bad Manager: A Case Study02:26 Defining Psychological Safety03:10 The Impact of Psychological Safety05:36 Building Psychological Safety: Practical Steps08:40 Assessing Psychological Safety in Your Team09:33 Real-World Examples of Psychological Safety10:19 Actionable Tips for Leaders11:29 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsJOIN MY COMMUNITY: Subscribe HERE⁠⁠ if you’d like new podcast episodes delivered right to your inbox along with weekly tips, tools, and musings. Have you subscribed yet?It would mean so much to me if you would SUBSCRIBE, SHARE OR REVIEW the How to Lead podcast wherever you get your podcasts!Useful links:Free Resources and more information on Kate's coaching programmes Buy the "How to Lead" bookConnect with Kate on LinkedInFollow Kate on TikTokContact Kate
In this episode of the How to Lead Podcast, Kate delves into the pressing issue of burnout, focusing on how to identify, mitigate, and prevent it. Key insights include recognising early warning signs, setting boundaries, fostering sustainable work practices, and promoting a supportive culture within teams and workplaces. Episode Highlights:00:00 Introduction to Burnout00:36 Understanding Burnout02:37 The Real Cost of Burnout03:18 Early Warning Signs of Burnout04:30 Causes of Burnout06:08 Preventing Burnout: Practical Tips08:00 Leadership Strategies to Combat Burnout09:02 Organizational Approaches to Burnout Prevention10:44 Actionable Steps for This Week11:50 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsJOIN MY COMMUNITY: Subscribe HERE⁠⁠ if you’d like new podcast episodes delivered right to your inbox along with weekly tips, tools, and musings. Have you subscribed yet?It would mean so much to me if you would SUBSCRIBE, SHARE OR REVIEW the How to Lead podcast wherever you get your podcasts!Useful links:Free Resources and more information on Kate's coaching programmes Buy the "How to Lead" bookConnect with Kate on LinkedInFollow Kate on TikTokContact Kate
Accountability

Accountability

2025-08-1411:49

In this episode of How to Lead, Kate looks at how to foster accountability within your team without resorting to shame, guilt, or micromanagement. With practical steps to create a culture of healthy accountability, highlighting common pitfalls like vague expectations and lack of autonomy, and offering strategies to encourage responsibility and transparency. Episode Highlights00:00 Introduction to Accountability02:14 Defining Accountability02:59 Importance of Accountability04:42 Challenges in Accountability05:37 Building Healthy Accountability06:48 Practical Tips for Leaders08:57 Accountability with Stakeholders and Peers09:46 Action Plan for Leaders10:33 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsJOIN MY COMMUNITY: Subscribe HERE⁠⁠ if you’d like new podcast episodes delivered right to your inbox along with weekly tips, tools, and musings. Have you subscribed yet?It would mean so much to me if you would SUBSCRIBE, SHARE OR REVIEW the How to Lead podcast wherever you get your podcasts!Useful links:Free Resources and more information on Kate's coaching programmes Buy the "How to Lead" bookConnect with Kate on LinkedInFollow Kate on TikTokContact Kate
Kate delves into the foundational role of personal values in leadership. Drawing on over 30 years of experience in business and leadership development, she explains how knowing your personal values can help you lead with purpose, clarity, and confidence. With practical exercises to help identify and align your values.Episode Highlights:00:00 Introduction to Confident Leadership00:41 Understanding Personal Values01:09 Linda's Perspective on Values02:37 The Importance of Personal Values in Leadership05:33 Identifying Your Core Values07:04 Aligning Actions with Values09:00 Adapting to Changing Values10:16 Practical Steps to Explore Your Values11:14 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsJOIN MY COMMUNITY: Subscribe HERE⁠⁠ if you’d like new podcast episodes delivered right to your inbox along with weekly tips, tools, and musings. Have you subscribed yet?It would mean so much to me if you would SUBSCRIBE, SHARE OR REVIEW the How to Lead podcast wherever you get your podcasts!Useful links:Free Resources and more information on Kate's coaching programmes Buy the "How to Lead" bookConnect with Kate on LinkedInFollow Kate on TikTokContact Kate
Setting objectives

Setting objectives

2025-07-3112:45

In this episode of 'How to Lead,' with Kate Waterfall Hill, Kate explains how clear objectives can create focus, motivation, and measurable results. She covers different types of objectives including short-term, long-term, personal, team, performance, and development goals, with reflection questions for leaders to set their own meaningful and achievable goals.Episode Highlights:00:00 Introduction and Overview00:40 The Importance of Setting Objectives01:47 Common Pitfalls in Setting Objectives03:17 Types of Objectives04:58 SMART Goals Explained06:25 Alternative Goal-Setting Frameworks07:58 Avoiding Common Mistakes09:12 Involving Your Team in Goal Setting10:00 Personal Objectives for Leaders10:44 Practical Steps to Implement Objectives11:30 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsJOIN MY COMMUNITY: Subscribe HERE⁠⁠ if you’d like new podcast episodes delivered right to your inbox along with weekly tips, tools, and musings. Have you subscribed yet?It would mean so much to me if you would SUBSCRIBE, SHARE OR REVIEW the How to Lead podcast wherever you get your podcasts!Useful links:Free Resources and more information on Kate's coaching programmes Buy the "How to Lead" bookConnect with Kate on LinkedInFollow Kate on TikTokContact Kate
Self-regulation

Self-regulation

2025-07-2413:02

Today Kate delves into the important skill of self-regulation, exploring how leaders can manage their thoughts, emotions, and actions to enhance their leadership effectiveness. Listeners are encouraged to become aware of their triggers, challenge unhelpful thoughts, and practice new habits to improve their leadership impact. Episode Highlights:00:00 Introduction to Self-Regulation00:49 Linda's Approach to Self-Regulation01:45 The Importance of Self-Regulation04:40 Understanding Your Triggers and Reactions05:31 Techniques for Self-Regulation07:52 Reframing and Practicing New Habits10:29 Positive Intelligence and Saboteurs11:12 Weekly Challenge and Recap11:48 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsJOIN MY COMMUNITY: Subscribe HERE⁠⁠ if you’d like new podcast episodes delivered right to your inbox along with weekly tips, tools, and musings. Have you subscribed yet?It would mean so much to me if you would SUBSCRIBE, SHARE OR REVIEW the How to Lead podcast wherever you get your podcasts!Useful links:Free Resources and more information on Kate's coaching programmes Buy the "How to Lead" bookConnect with Kate on LinkedInFollow Kate on TikTokContact Kate
Collaboration

Collaboration

2025-07-1711:33

In this episode of How to Lead, Kate focuses on the essence of genuine collaboration within teams, sharing insights from her 30 years in business and leadership development. The discussion covers the pitfalls of flawed collaboration practices, exemplified humorously by 'Linda, the bad manager,' and delves into the necessity of collaboration for modern organisational success, with practical advice for leaders to model, facilitate, support, coach, and celebrate collaborative efforts in their teams.Episode Highlights00:00 Introduction to Collaboration00:41 Defining True Collaboration03:06 Common Collaboration Pitfalls04:10 Strategies for Effective Collaboration08:29 Leadership's Role in Collaboration09:54 Practical Tips and ConclusionJOIN MY COMMUNITY: Subscribe HERE⁠⁠ if you’d like new podcast episodes delivered right to your inbox along with weekly tips, tools, and musings. Have you subscribed yet?It would mean so much to me if you would SUBSCRIBE, SHARE OR REVIEW the How to Lead podcast wherever you get your podcasts!Useful links:Free Resources and more information on Kate's coaching programmes Buy the "How to Lead" bookConnect with Kate on LinkedInFollow Kate on TikTokContact Kate
Giving feedback

Giving feedback

2025-07-1011:17

Today Kate delves into the essentials of giving effective feedback that is clear, kind, and useful. Emphasis is placed on the importance of regular, specific, and growth-focused feedback, as well as fostering a culture where feedback is normalised and constructive. Kate also touches on how to handle feedback to peers and superiors, ultimately aiming to create a positive environment of continuous improvement.Episode Highlights00:00 Introduction to Effective Feedback00:41 The Importance of Feedback01:10 Common Mistakes in Giving Feedback02:11 Why Feedback is Kind03:09 Overcoming the Fear of Giving Feedback04:36 The SO-ROCK Feedback Framework05:36 Real-World Feedback Example06:46 Language and Approach in Feedback07:20 Giving Feedback to Bosses and Peers08:09 Building a Feedback Culture09:24 Key Takeaways and Final Tips10:33 Conclusion and Call to ActionJOIN MY COMMUNITY: Subscribe HERE⁠⁠ if you’d like new podcast episodes delivered right to your inbox along with weekly tips, tools, and musings. Have you subscribed yet?It would mean so much to me if you would SUBSCRIBE, SHARE OR REVIEW the How to Lead podcast wherever you get your podcasts!Useful links:Free Resources and more information on Kate's coaching programmes Buy the "How to Lead" bookConnect with Kate on LinkedInFollow Kate on TikTokContact Kate
Managing up

Managing up

2025-07-0312:33

This episode of 'How to Lead with Kate Waterfall Hill,' explores the skill of managing up. Drawing from her 30 years in business and leadership development, Kate debunks myths about managing up, provides five practical principles for engaging with your boss, and offers strategies for dealing with different types of managers—from micromanagers to vague visionaries. Episode Highlights:00:00 Introduction to Managing Up02:05 Understanding the Importance of Managing Up04:43 Five Practical Principles for Managing Up09:13 Tailoring Your Approach to Different Boss Types11:11 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsJOIN MY COMMUNITY: Subscribe HERE⁠⁠ if you’d like new podcast episodes delivered right to your inbox along with weekly tips, tools, and musings. Have you subscribed yet?It would mean so much to me if you would SUBSCRIBE, SHARE OR REVIEW the How to Lead podcast wherever you get your podcasts!Useful links:Free Resources and more information on Kate's coaching programmes Buy the "How to Lead" bookConnect with Kate on LinkedInFollow Kate on TikTokContact Kate
Today's episode focusses on mastering the art of influencing without formal authority. Kate dives into practical strategies and shares valuable tips on framing conversations, effective listening, and presenting with clarity. Episode Highlights00:00 Introduction to Influencing Without Authority00:53 Meet Linda: The Bad Manager01:58 Understanding Influence Without Authority03:13 Building Credibility and Relationships05:08 Timing and Framing Your Message08:42 Handling Resistance and Effective Communication11:07 Final Tools and Summary12:06 Conclusion and Further ResourcesJOIN MY COMMUNITY: Subscribe HERE⁠⁠ if you’d like new podcast episodes delivered right to your inbox along with weekly tips, tools, and musings. Have you subscribed yet?It would mean so much to me if you would SUBSCRIBE, SHARE OR REVIEW the How to Lead podcast wherever you get your podcasts!Useful links:Free Resources and more information on Kate's coaching programmes Buy the "How to Lead" bookConnect with Kate on LinkedInFollow Kate on TikTokContact Kate
This episode of 'How to Lead' concludes the four Cs miniseries with a practical guide on how to measure and improve team engagement. Kate dissects the crucial elements of the four Cs: clarity, challenge, control, and community, and provides specific methods to assess and enhance these areas within teams. Episode Highlights00:00 Introduction to the Four Cs00:48 The Importance of Practical Application01:31 Linda's Bad Management Example02:03 Recap of the Four Cs02:45 Measuring the Four Cs06:06 Improving Clarity07:25 Enhancing Challenge08:10 Balancing Control and Autonomy09:00 Fostering Community09:47 Overcoming Common Obstacles10:42 Final Thoughts and Recap11:50 Conclusion and Next StepsJOIN MY COMMUNITY: Subscribe HERE⁠⁠ if you’d like new podcast episodes delivered right to your inbox along with weekly tips, tools, and musings. Have you subscribed yet?It would mean so much to me if you would SUBSCRIBE, SHARE OR REVIEW the How to Lead podcast wherever you get your podcasts!Useful links:Free Resources and more information on Kate's coaching programmes Buy the "How to Lead" bookConnect with Kate on LinkedInFollow Kate on TikTokContact Kate
In this final episode of the miniseries on the four Cs of Employee Engagement, Kate discusses how to build a sense of community within teams. She outlines the five key elements of community—connection, recognition, psychological safety, shared purpose, and inclusion—and provides practical tips for leaders to foster these within their teams. Episode Highlights:00:00 Introduction to Community Building00:25 Recap of the Four Cs Miniseries01:20 Linda the Bad Manager: A Case Study01:52 Defining Community in the Workplace02:36 The Importance of Community at Work03:17 Five Key Ingredients of Community03:52 Building Connection and Recognition05:12 Fostering Psychological Safety06:09 Creating a Shared Purpose07:00 Promoting Inclusion07:36 Common Traps That Destroy Community08:26 Practical Steps to Build Community09:09 Conclusion and Final Thoughts09:43 Closing Remarks and Call to ActionJOIN MY COMMUNITY: Subscribe HERE⁠⁠ if you’d like new podcast episodes delivered right to your inbox along with weekly tips, tools, and musings. Have you subscribed yet?It would mean so much to me if you would SUBSCRIBE, SHARE OR REVIEW the How to Lead podcast wherever you get your podcasts!Useful links:Free Resources and more information on Kate's coaching programmes Buy the "How to Lead" bookConnect with Kate on LinkedInFollow Kate on TikTokContact Kate
In this third part of a mini-series on the four key elements of team engagement, Kate explores the topic of control in leadership. She focusses on how to empower your team without abandoning them, breaking down the importance of giving your team the right amount of control, how to do it effectively, and common pitfalls to avoid. Episode Highlights00:00 Introduction to Empowering Leadership00:24 The Four Cs of Team Engagement01:07 Diving into Control01:12 Linda's Management Style01:58 Defining Control in Leadership03:51 Common Leadership Pitfalls04:41 Practical Framework for Delegation07:06 Building a Culture of Ownership09:04 Self-Check for Leaders09:31 Conclusion and Next StepsJOIN MY COMMUNITY: Subscribe HERE⁠⁠ if you’d like new podcast episodes delivered right to your inbox along with weekly tips, tools, and musings. Have you subscribed yet?It would mean so much to me if you would SUBSCRIBE, SHARE OR REVIEW the How to Lead podcast wherever you get your podcasts!Useful links:Free Resources and more information on Kate's coaching programmes Buy the "How to Lead" bookConnect with Kate on LinkedInFollow Kate on TikTokContact Kate
In this second episode of the Four Cs of Employee Engagement mini-series, Kate discusses the importance of challenging team members in a way that promotes growth without overwhelm. Exploring the concept of the comfort-stretch-panic model she provides practical strategies for introducing healthy challenges in the workplace. Episode Highlights00:00 Introduction and Program Announcement00:49 Exploring the Four Cs Leadership Model01:19 Understanding the Importance of Challenge01:25 Linda's Approach to Challenging Her Team03:23 The Sweet Spot: Comfort, Stretch, and Panic Zones05:19 Practical Ideas for Introducing Healthy Challenge06:47 The Role of Psychological Safety in Challenge07:38 Recognizing and Addressing Panic Zone Signs08:19 Encouraging Effort and Self-Trust09:06 Challenge for Leaders and ConclusionJOIN MY COMMUNITY: Subscribe HERE⁠⁠ if you’d like new podcast episodes delivered right to your inbox along with weekly tips, tools, and musings. Have you subscribed yet?It would mean so much to me if you would SUBSCRIBE, SHARE OR REVIEW the How to Lead podcast wherever you get your podcasts!Useful links:Free Resources and more information on Kate's coaching programmes Buy the "How to Lead" bookConnect with Kate on LinkedInFollow Kate on TikTokContact Kate
This episode of 'How to Lead,' with Kate Waterfall Hill kicks off a mini-series on the Four Cs of Employee Engagement: Clarity, Challenge, Control, and Community. Clarity, and its importance for team engagement and performance, is the focus today. Kate discusses how a lack of clarity can lead to confusion, frustration, and underperformance, and provides practical tips on how leaders can communicate more clearly, align team goals with organisational vision, and create a shared understanding to enhance team motivation and effectiveness. Episode Highlights00:00 Introduction to the Four Cs of Leadership00:43 Focus on Clarity01:27 Linda's Struggle with Clarity02:11 The Importance of Clarity in Leadership02:50 Creating Clarity for Your Team07:44 Common Pitfalls and Solutions09:05 Practical Steps to Enhance Clarity10:14 Emotional Impact of Clarity11:40 Final Thoughts and Next Episode PreviewJOIN MY COMMUNITY: Subscribe HERE⁠⁠ if you’d like new podcast episodes delivered right to your inbox along with weekly tips, tools, and musings. Have you subscribed yet?It would mean so much to me if you would SUBSCRIBE, SHARE OR REVIEW the How to Lead podcast wherever you get your podcasts!Useful links:Free Resources and more information on Kate's coaching programmes Buy the "How to Lead" bookConnect with Kate on LinkedInFollow Kate on TikTokContact Kate
Micromanaging

Micromanaging

2025-05-1608:42

In this episode of 'How to Lead,' Kate Waterfall Hill addresses the pitfalls of micromanagement and offers alternative leadership strategies. With practical advice on setting clear outcomes, co-creating timelines, and fostering a culture of psychological safety.Episode Highlights00:00 Introduction to Micromanagement00:50 Linda's Management Style01:33 The Reality of Micromanagement02:54 The Cost of Micromanagement03:58 Shifting to Real Leadership04:35 Practical Tips for Delegation05:28 Creating a Supportive Culture06:01 Self-Awareness and Control07:53 Conclusion and Final ThoughtsJOIN MY COMMUNITY: Subscribe HERE⁠⁠ if you’d like new podcast episodes delivered right to your inbox along with weekly tips, tools, and musings. Have you subscribed yet?It would mean so much to me if you would SUBSCRIBE, SHARE OR REVIEW the How to Lead podcast wherever you get your podcasts!Useful links:Free Resources and more information on Kate's coaching programmes Buy the "How to Lead" bookConnect with Kate on LinkedInFollow Kate on TikTokContact Kate
In this episode of 'How to Lead,' Kate discusses what to expect from coaching. She covers one-to-one coaching, group coaching, and team coaching, highlighting how each approach benefits leaders and their teams. Episode Highlights00:00 Introduction to Coaching for Leaders00:48 Meet Linda the Bad Manager01:48 Understanding One-to-One Coaching03:31 The Structure of One-to-One Coaching05:44 Exploring Group Coaching07:25 Diving into Team Coaching08:34 Choosing the Right Coaching Approach10:08 Maximizing the Benefits of Coaching10:36 Summary and Final ThoughtsJOIN MY COMMUNITY: Subscribe HERE⁠⁠ if you’d like new podcast episodes delivered right to your inbox along with weekly tips, tools, and musings. Have you subscribed yet?It would mean so much to me if you would SUBSCRIBE, SHARE OR REVIEW the How to Lead podcast wherever you get your podcasts!Useful links:Free Resources and more information on Kate's coaching programmes Buy the "How to Lead" bookConnect with Kate on LinkedInFollow Kate on TikTokContact Kate
Holding one-to-ones

Holding one-to-ones

2025-05-0213:55

In this episode of How to Lead, Kate shares her insights on conducting effective one-to-one meetings, providing leaders with actionable advice to improve engagement, productivity, and working relationships through thoughtful interactions.Episode Highlights00:00 Introduction and Program Announcement01:11 Meet Linda, the Bad Manager02:30 What is a One-to-One?03:28 The Importance of One-to-Ones03:56 Setting the Right Tone04:50 Effective One-to-One Structure05:42 The Power of Questions06:53 Providing Constructive Feedback07:26 Feedback Models09:23 Avoiding Common Pitfalls10:19 Handling Challenging Situations12:25 Key Points and ConclusionJOIN MY COMMUNITY: Subscribe HERE⁠⁠ if you’d like new podcast episodes delivered right to your inbox along with weekly tips, tools, and musings. Have you subscribed yet?It would mean so much to me if you would SUBSCRIBE, SHARE OR REVIEW the How to Lead podcast wherever you get your podcasts!Useful links:Free Resources and more information on Kate's coaching programmes Buy the "How to Lead" bookConnect with Kate on LinkedInFollow Kate on TikTokContact Kate
Strategic Thinking

Strategic Thinking

2025-04-2510:23

In this episode of 'How to Lead,' Kate explores the critical skill of strategic thinking for leaders, CEOs, and founders. She shares practical steps for fostering strategic thinking in teams and offers insights on improving innovation, impact, and career development. Episode Highlights00:00 Introduction and Program Announcement01:09 Meet Linda, the Bad Manager01:42 Understanding Strategic Thinking02:45 Barriers to Strategic Thinking03:29 Strategies to Develop Strategic Thinking05:52 The Impact of Strategic Thinking06:49 Practical Scenarios and Tips08:38 Summary and Conclusion09:33 Closing Remarks and Call to ActionJOIN MY COMMUNITY: Subscribe HERE⁠⁠ if you’d like new podcast episodes delivered right to your inbox along with weekly tips, tools, and musings. Have you subscribed yet?It would mean so much to me if you would SUBSCRIBE, SHARE OR REVIEW the How to Lead podcast wherever you get your podcasts!Useful links:Free Resources and more information on Kate's coaching programmes Buy the "How to Lead" bookConnect with Kate on LinkedInFollow Kate on TikTokContact Kate
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