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Inspiring Leadership with Jonathan Bowman-Perks MBE

Inspiring Leadership with Jonathan Bowman-Perks MBE
Author: Jonathan Bowman-Perks
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Each week former British Army Officer, CEOs coach, Top Team coach and motivational speaker Jonathan Bowman-Perks MBE brings inspiring leadership themes and guest interviews to you. Jonathan’s wide cross-section of guests vary from Generals to distinguished SAS Officers, CEOs and business leaders. This podcast appeals to the full cross-section of leaders: from younger aspiring leaders, Entrepreneurs, experience managers to CEOs, Partners, MDs and Chairs of businesses. Stories of inspiration, failures, hard won lessons, top tips and practical leadership advice for you.
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🌍 Kevin Godlington joined the army at 16 after a challenging childhood in state care. He served in the Royal Engineers, Special Forces, and the FCDO, operating globally before turning to entrepreneurship.He co‑founded Planting Naturals, creating the world’s largest organic palm oil cooperative, and later founded a private equity firm supporting entrepreneurs from low socio‑economic backgrounds. In 2022, he launched The Rewilding Company, restoring over 25,000 hectares of rainforest and mangrove ecosystems.A world‑record mountaineer, licensed pilot, and endurance racer, Kevin leads through action and vision. His story is one of resilience, reinvention, and relentless drive with leadership rooted in lived experience, service, and a bold vision for global impact. 🧭Tune in to hear how one man’s mission to rewrite his story is helping rewrite the future for thousands more. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
🚀 Elke Anderl – Leading with Purpose, Passion & InnovationAs Chief Commercial Officer at T-Systems International, Elke Anderl brings over two decades of leadership across telecoms, tech, and global markets. Since stepping into her executive role in 2024, she’s been driving bold growth, customer-centric innovation, and a future-forward approach to digital transformation across Deutsche Telekom’s B2B units.From leading global sales to transforming service experiences, Elke’s leadership is rooted in empathy, curiosity, and strategic clarity. With international experience in Japan and Singapore, she shares how cultural awareness, consistent communication, and choosing your attitude consciously can turn customers—and teams—into true advocates. 💡A champion of female leadership and diversity, Elke offers invaluable insights into what it takes to lead with vision in a fast-changing world.Tune in now to discover how connection, innovation, and mindset can redefine modern leadership. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Franklyn Butler is a trusted voice in family business, corporate governance, and the Bahamian capital markets . He began his career at the Milo Butler group, helping transform his family’s company and leading the transition from the second generation to the third. That journey was later featured on the cover of Family Business Magazine.Today Franklyn is President and CEO of Cable Bahamas. He also chairs AML Foods, the largest supermarket chain in the Bahamas, and Be Aliv, where he helped launch the country’s second mobile operator and built the ALIV brand. He serves on the boards of Arawak Port Development, RBC Royal Bank Bahamas, and the Bahamas Property Fund.Franklyn is the founder of the Butler Legacy Foundation, a member of the Young Presidents Organization, and co-host of the award-winning Butler Legacy Podcast 🎙️. Outside of business, he is a husband, father, and mentor who loves reading, traveling, and spending time on the water.Tune in now to hear his story of leadership, legacy, and building businesses that last across generations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
🌍 Vishal Dalal – Leading Global Change Through InnovationFrom McKinsey to Citibank to Barclays, and now as Global CEO of Pismo, Vishal Dalal has built a career at the forefront of digital finance and tech transformation. With over 25 years of experience in core banking and card systems, Vishal brings deep expertise and a truly global perspective to modern leadership.Based in London and newly appointed in May 2025, Vishal shares how purpose-driven leadership, cross-cultural insight, and constant innovation are shaping the future of fintech and financial inclusion. 💡Tune in now to hear how a leader grounded in both engineering and empathy is helping redefine what global leadership looks like. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
🎙️ New Episode: Leadership with Purpose – Colonel Simon Hutchinson MBEFrom front-line deployments in Northern Ireland, the Balkans, and Afghanistan to strategic roles at the Pentagon and the City of London, Simon Hutchinson MBE has lived a life of leadership, service, and resilience. In this episode, Simon shares the powerful principles that have shaped his journey — from his Quaker-inspired leadership values to commanding signal regiments, advising on billion-dollar defence programs, and supporting charitable governance at the prestigious Goldsmiths’ Company.His story is a masterclass in humility, integrity, and putting people first. 💡Tune in now to hear why, after all the accolades, Simon’s greatest success is still: “Sandra and the boys.” 🎧 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
🎙️ Damian McKinney – Leading with a Commando MindsetFrom elite military missions to boardroom transformations, Damian McKinney brings a rare blend of leadership, grit, and global business insight. After an 18-year career with the UK Royal Marine Commandos—earning an MBE and rising to Lieutenant Colonel by age 35—Damian transitioned into the corporate world, founding the global consultancy McKinney Rogers. He’s since led major transformations for world-class brands like Walmart, Diageo, Pfizer, and Stoli Group.Now, as Founder and CEO of DioniLife, Damian is on a mission to revolutionize the beverage industry with a bold, non-alcoholic portfolio. His bestselling books Commando Way and Commando Entrepreneur capture his results-driven leadership philosophy, forged under fire and proven in business.🔥 Don’t miss this powerful episode on resilience, innovation, and building success under pressure.Tune in now and get inspired! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
🎙️ On this episode of the Inspiring Leadership Podcast, we’re honoured to welcome The Rt Hon Sir Vince Cable — economist, author, former Leader of the Liberal Democrats, and Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills.From his early days in the Kenya Treasury and the Foreign Office to advising on global trade, climate policy, and sustainable development, Sir Vince’s career has spanned diplomacy, academia, business, and politics. 📚He reflects on leadership in government and global institutions, the future of economic policy, and how his experiences — from Shell to the House of Commons — shaped his views on resilience, reform, and responsibility. We also discuss his prolific writing career, including his upcoming book Eclipsing the West.🌍 With wisdom from decades at the intersection of politics, economics, and global affairs, this is a conversation not to be missed.🎧 Tune in now for insight, candour, and inspiration from one of Britain’s most influential public thinkers. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this compelling episode of the Inspiring Leadership Podcast, we speak with Chris Piehota, a retired FBI executive who spent nearly 25 years leading high-stakes global security operations at the highest levels of U.S. law enforcement and intelligence.As one of only eight senior executives in the FBI, Chris led complex national security programs and oversaw cutting-edge technical operations — often under intense pressure and scrutiny. Today, through his firm YF5 Solutions, LLC, he brings that same strategic mindset and calm leadership to organizations worldwide, helping them strengthen performance, leadership, and long-term success.With a doctorate in Human Performance Improvement, Chris shares powerful insights on navigating risk, leading through crisis, and building resilient teams — whether in national security or in the corporate boardroom.🎧 Tune in to discover what true leadership looks like when lives are on the line, and how those lessons can drive excellence in any organization. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
🎙️ New episode alert from the Inspiring Leadership PodcastThis week, we're joined by Anthony Scaramucci — founder of SkyBridge Capital and SALT, co-host of The Rest Is Politics US and Open Book, and author of six books including The Little Book of Bitcoin.From his early days at Goldman Sachs to founding Oscar Capital and serving briefly as White House Communications Director, Anthony's journey spans finance, politics, and crypto innovation. Ranked among the top influencers in blockchain and recognized as Entrepreneur of the Year by Ernst & Young, his story is one of bold leadership and constant reinvention.💼 A member of the Council on Foreign Relations and a powerful voice in global finance, Anthony brings sharp insights and candid reflections on what it means to lead with resilience.Tune in now for an unmissable conversation! 🎧 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Zsuzsanna Recsey is a dynamic executive leader with a proven track record of driving transformation and growth across global corporations and purpose-led businesses. As CEO of Standing on Giants, she has tripled the company’s revenue, expanded its services, and grown the team from 25 to over 70 — all while fostering an inclusive culture of innovation and collaboration 🚀.With senior roles at Barclays and Citibank, Zsuzsanna brings deep expertise in strategic development, corporate governance, and stakeholder management. A passionate advocate for B Corp principles, she led Standing on Giants to full certification — reflecting her commitment to ethical, sustainable business practices 🌍.Armed with an MBA from the University of Chicago Booth School of Business, Zsuzsanna is also known for her impactful coaching and mentoring, empowering teams to reach their full potential. Off the clock, she recharges through squash, theatre, and travel, embracing a well-rounded approach to leadership and life.🎧 Tune in now to hear Zsuzsanna’s inspiring journey, leadership insights, and her vision for purpose-driven business on The Inspiring Leadership Podcast. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
🎙️ In this powerful episode of the Inspiring Leadership Podcast, we welcome Sam Smith — trailblazing entrepreneur, board advisor, and the founding CEO of finnCap, the City’s first female-led stockbroking firm.Over 24 years, Sam built what is now Cavendish Financial into a £50m+ investment bank, backing hundreds of high-growth companies. Her leadership journey is defined by empathy, inclusion, and purpose-driven governance — themes she explores in her bestselling book The Secret Sauce.Sam reflects on what it takes to scale a business while staying true to your values, the mindset behind lasting success, and how to navigate critical pivot points with resilience. She shares the vision behind The SuperScalers, a global initiative she co-founded to help underrepresented founders grow their businesses from £1m to £50m+, and how this movement is shifting the narrative of who gets to build big.As a respected non-executive director across multiple sectors and a passionate advocate for equity in entrepreneurship, Sam is also championing a campaign to bring entrepreneurship into the school curriculum — ensuring every young person, regardless of background, has the tools to shape their own future.🎧 Tune in for a conversation full of insight, inspiration, and practical wisdom from one of the UK’s most impactful business leaders. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
🎖️ Major Scotty Mills is a former Royal Marines Commando Officer and Head of Performance for all 6,500 of Britain’s elite Green Berets. From the backstreets of South London to leading battlefield missions alongside US Navy SEALs, Scotty’s life is a powerful story of resilience, leadership, and human potential.As Commanding Officer, he led recovery teams transforming the lives of injured and traumatised service personnel across the UK’s Armed Forces. A world record holder and London 2012 Olympic Flag Bearer, he later became a trusted advisor to elite sports teams—most notably helping Gareth Southgate and the England Football Team forge a winning culture under pressure ⚽.Named the most inspirational serviceman in the UK, Scotty is now a globally sought-after motivational speaker, performance coach, and author of Never Give In: 12 Commando Rules for Life. His mission? To help people and teams around the world unlock the courage to achieve their impossible dreams.🎧 Tune in now to hear Scotty’s incredible journey—from combat zones to coaching world champions—and discover the leadership lessons that will change how you show up in life and work. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
✈️ Emma Henderson MBE is a transformative speaker, award-winning CEO, and one of fewer than 500 female airline captains worldwide.With over 30 years of aviation experience, she brings powerful, real-world lessons on resilient leadership, high-stakes decision-making, and leading teams through turbulence—both literal and figurative.From flying aircraft at 37,000 feet to founding the celebrated Project Wingman during the pandemic, Emma has become a trusted voice in developing authentic, human-centric leadership cultures. Her "captain's mindset" equips leaders to make fast, confident decisions, build trust, and adapt in high-pressure environments.Her bestselling book GROUNDED distills these lessons into a practical framework for success in business and life. As an Aviation Ambassador and MBE honouree for services to charity, she’s inspired top organisations like NatWest, EDF, Boeing, and the NHS.🚀 Tune in now to hear how Emma turns cockpit wisdom into boardroom brilliance—and walk away with the tools to lead with clarity, courage, and resilience. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
🎙️ Chris Duncan is a seasoned media leader with over 25 years of experience driving transformation and growth across the agency, national newspaper, and magazine sectors. He’s led strategic change in complex global environments for UK, US, and European businesses.From doubling revenue at a cloud CRM startup to launching the first iPad edition of The Times, Chris has consistently delivered innovation and impact. As Chief Customer Officer at NewsCorp, he spearheaded marketing and business development across UK brands, and as MD of The Times, he scaled its digital subscriptions to record highs.As CEO of Bauer Media UK Publishing, he oversaw 80 brands and 800 people, driving profitability and double-digit digital growth 📈. Today, he leads Seedelta, a media consultancy helping companies align strategy, technology, people, and processes to achieve sustainable revenue growth.🎧 Tune in now to hear Chris’s inspiring journey and powerful leadership insights that will challenge your thinking and spark new ideas. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
373. Tornado Down! Leading through Uncertainty - John Peters🎙️ This week on the Inspiring Leadership Podcast, we welcome John Peters — a former RAF pilot who was shot down and captured during his first mission in the Gulf War of 1991. Held as a Prisoner of War for seven weeks, he endured brutal interrogation and torture—experiences that would ultimately shape a remarkable second chapter in his life.Since leaving the RAF, John has become a respected leadership consultant, speaker, and author. He holds an MBA, has led executive education at top business schools, and founded the consultancy Monkey Business. His bestselling book Tornado Down and its award-nominated documentary brought his story to global attention.In this powerful episode, John shares what captivity taught him about resilience, leadership, and transformation—and how those lessons now help others navigate uncertainty and lead with purpose.Tune in to be inspired 🌍 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
🎙️ Inspiring Leadership PodcastIn this episode of the Inspiring Leadership Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Ferri Abolhassan, Member of the Board of Management at Deutsche Telekom AG and CEO of T-Systems International GmbH, to explore what it takes to lead at the forefront of digital transformation.With a PhD in Computer Science and a career spanning leadership roles at Siemens, IBM, SAP, and now Deutsche Telekom, Ferri brings deep insight into managing complexity, innovation, and scale. Currently leading a global team of 26,000, he shares lessons from overseeing IT, launching Telekom Security, and transforming customer service for 30,000+ employees.Ferri also gives us a glimpse into his passion for the future of AI and research, as Chairman of the Supervisory Board of the German Research Center for Artificial Intelligence (DFKI) and his involvement with the Max Planck Instituteand Atlantik-Brücke.Tune in to hear a forward-thinking leader reflect on trust, tech, and the human side of transformation. 💡 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Mission-Driven Leadership: Turning Strategy into Action with Will CasseltonThis week on the Inspiring Leadership Podcast, we welcome Will Casselton — CEO of McKinney Rogers and VP at GP Strategies — a visionary in strategy execution and leadership development. 🚀 With a background in Mission Leadership and a track record of transforming organizations, Will shares how he helps CEOs turn bold visions into real-world results. From pioneering tools like BEOS to guiding leaders through crisis and uncertainty, his insights are both timely and timeless. 🌍Tune in and be inspired! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
🎙️ Inspiring Leadership – Mark UrbanJoin us for a powerful episode with Mark Urban – journalist, historian, Podcaster and former BBC Newsnight Diplomatic Editor – as he shares insights from a career spent on the frontlines of global conflict.Now a writer for The Sunday Times, and Podcast Cohost with former MP Amber Rudd (The Crisis Room) Mark has reported from the Gulf War to Afghanistan, served as a Royal Tank Regiment officer, and worked with EW teams such as Jonathan’s on the Cold War front. His bestselling books reveal the secret worlds of military operations and espionage.Ahead of the release of his latest book TANK (out 5th June) and his new podcast (launching 28th May), Mark discusses the leaders, decisions, and intelligence efforts that shape modern warfare. Don’t miss this episode with one of Britain’s most compelling voices on defence and leadership. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Leading Wellbeing with Professor Sir Cary Cooper, CBEJoin us on the Inspiring Leadership Podcast as we welcome Professor Sir Cary Cooper, CBE, a global authority in organisational psychology and workplace wellbeing. As the 50th Anniversary Professor at Alliance Manchester Business School, Sir Cary has authored over 170 influential books and championed healthier, high-performing work cultures. With honours including a CBE and a Knighthood, his leadership legacy is both profound and practical. Don’t miss this inspiring episode on how wellbeing is the key to unlocking business success.Tune in now to be inspired! 🎙️ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Turning Adversity into Action – Matt Gallagher’s Fight Against MNDIn this powerful episode of the Inspiring Leadership Podcast, we sit down with Matt Gallagher, former Coventry rugby player and founder of the Matt Gallagher Foundation, created following his diagnosis with Motor Neurone Disease (MND) in October 2023.Rather than stepping back, Matt has taken bold steps forward—raising over £600,000 through his foundation to support research, increase awareness, and provide hands-on support to the MND community. From charity runs and rugby matches to heartfelt public speaking and community engagement, Matt’s story is one of courage, resilience, and purpose.Tune in to hear how Matt is transforming personal adversity into a powerful movement of hope and solidarity. 🏉 Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.