Leadership, Brand Strategy & Transformation - Minter Dialogue

In this latest episode, I had a wide ranging discussion with Michael Brown, author of "I Don't Agree", a book that explores navigating disagreements and fostering mutual respect. Brown shares his personal journey, highlighting a tumultuous period in his career involving a power struggle with business partners, which inspired his book. Two key points discussed include the concept of attribution bias, where individuals often credit themselves for positive outcomes in negotiations, and the innovative idea of integrating mental health support within soup kitchens, aiming to address homelessness by providing accessible mental health services.

In this episode of the Minter Dialogue podcast, I explore the possibilities of delegating the hosting to AI, in the form of Google's NotebookLM. In the ensuing interview that is artificially constructed by two voices, there are two interviews with quite different editorial approaches to exploring my book, "Heartificial Empathy, 2nd edition". The first discussion centres around the potential of empathy as a competitive advantage in a world increasingly dominated by AI and algorithms. Two key points raised include the idea that empathy is not merely a passive feeling but an active process requiring genuine understanding of others' emotions and motivations. The second discussion focuses on more ethical issues and is more critical of my book.... Which do you prefer? One, both or neither? Please drop in your comments and let us know your thoughts/reactions!

This episode is with Vincent Kouwenhoven, a Dutch entrepreneur who transformed a hobby into the largest safari operation in Zambia and Malawi. Vincent shares his journey from a corporate career in telecoms and venture capital to pioneering fintech solutions in Africa. He discusses his passion for the continent, sparked by a gap year adventure, and how it led him to invest in sustainable safari lodges. We explore the unique allure of Zambia's wilderness, the importance of creating jobs for local communities, and Vincent's innovative approach to eco-friendly tourism. Discover how Vincent's leadership style evolved through hands-on involvement and his commitment to kindness and sustainability. Whether you're a seasoned traveller or new to the safari experience, Vincent's insights offer a fresh perspective on luxury travel and conservation. Tune in to learn more about the magic of Africa and the impact of responsible tourism.

In this engaging episode, I welcome back Fabrice Grinda, a seasoned tech entrepreneur and investor. Fabrice shares his journey from his early days in France to building tech companies and investing in over 1100 startups through FJ Labs. We delve into his unique approach to life, challenging societal norms and embracing authenticity. Fabrice discusses his transformative experiences with psychedelics and how they influenced his personal and professional life. We also explore the role of AI in modern business, with Fabrice explaining how every company he invests in utilises AI in some capacity. He introduces Fabrice AI, a digital representation of himself, designed to answer frequently asked questions from entrepreneurs. Throughout the conversation, Fabrice offers insights into the future of AI, the importance of emotional intelligence, and the value of a broad education.

In this episode, I sit down with Karin von Hippel, Director of the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) in London. We explore her extensive career in think tanks and foreign policy, including her work with the United Nations, the State Department, and the European Union. Karin shares insights into her early career, discussing her first job working on Somalia's political options post-dictatorship. We delve into the concept of resilience in conflict zones and the importance of national service. Karin reflects on the challenges of geopolitics, the role of think tanks like RUSI, and the complexities of global security threats. We also discuss leadership qualities and the evolving nature of international relations. As Karin prepares to leave RUSI, she offers her perspective on the future of global politics and her own next steps. Join us for a thought-provoking conversation on leadership, resilience, and the intricate web of global affairs.

In this episode, I had the pleasure of hosting Willie Pietersen, a distinguished professor at Columbia Business School and former CEO, who shared his remarkable journey from South Africa to the United States. Willie discussed his experiences growing up during apartheid, his career transition from law to business, and his insights on leadership. He emphasised the importance of personal leadership, strategic direction, and interpersonal skills, drawing on his own life lessons and the example set by Nelson Mandela. We explored the challenges of maintaining ethical standards in leadership and the role of moral courage. Willie also shared his thoughts on the biases that affect decision-making and the significance of having a shared purpose in business. For those interested in learning more, his book "Leadership: The Inside Story" is available on Amazon. It was a truly enlightening conversation, and I hope to meet Willie in person someday to continue our discussion.

Minter Dialogue with Neal Schaffer In this episode, I host Neal Schaffer, a digital marketing expert and author of the new book, "Digital Threads: The Small Business and Entrepreneur Playbook for Digital Marketing." Neal shares his journey from Southern California to becoming a global influencer, educator, and consultant. He discusses his extensive experience in Japan, where he lived for 15 years, and how it shaped his approach to social media and digital marketing. Neal emphasises the importance of a results-driven, experimental mindset in marketing, inspired by the PDCA (Plan, Do, Check, Act) methodology. He also highlights the value of long-term relationships and a holistic perspective in business. Neal's latest book aims to democratise digital marketing strategies for small businesses and entrepreneurs, helping them make meaningful connections and achieve sustainable growth.

Minter Dialogue with Lucy McCarraher In this episode, I sit down with Lucy McCarraher, co-founder of Rethink Press and founder of the Business Book Awards. Lucy shares her journey from magazine publishing to becoming a TV journalist and scriptwriter, before diving into the world of business books. She discusses the innovative publishing model of Rethink Press, which allows authors to pay for publishing packages and receive higher royalties. Lucy also touches on the importance of storytelling in business books and the emotional journey of writing. Our conversation explores the role of AI in publishing and the significance of the Business Book Awards in recognising diverse voices in the industry.

Minter Dialogue with Mark Cox In this episode, I host Mark Cox, a prominent figure in the sales industry and author of "Learn to Love Selling." Mark shares insights from his extensive career in managing large sales organisations and founding In the Funnel, a company dedicated to elevating the sales profession. We delve into the nuances of B2B sales, the importance of curiosity, and the evolving role of salespeople. Mark also highlights the significance of building genuine relationships, maintaining integrity, and fostering a customer-first mentality. This episode is a treasure trove of practical advice for anyone looking to excel in sales and leadership.

Minter Dialogue with Michael Katz In my latest podcast episode, I had the pleasure of hosting Michael Katz, the innovative mind behind Flowsend AI. Michael, a technologist from Baltimore, shared his journey from a sceptical tech enthusiast to a pioneering entrepreneur in the AI space. Initially cynical about AI, Michael eventually recognised its potential to amplify human creativity, leading him to develop Flowsend AI. This tool was born out of his frustration with the time-consuming process of managing podcast content. Flowsend AI automates these tasks while maintaining high standards of quality and personalisation, transforming original content into various formats for broader audience engagement. Michael emphasised that while AI might not yet generate original thought, it excels at repurposing and enhancing existing material, making it invaluable for content creators. He candidly discussed the challenges of running a startup, particularly prioritisation and client acquisition, but his passion for solving real problems keeps him motivated. Looking ahead, Michael aims to expand Flowsend AI's capabilities, envisioning a future where AI tools seamlessly integrate into content creation. For those interested, Flowsend AI offers a free trial and a special discount with the promo code Minter30. To stay updated on Michael's journey and Flowsend AI's developments, follow him on LinkedIn (Michael N. Katz) or Twitter (@MiguelKatz). This episode highlights the transformative power of AI in content creation and Michael Katz's inspiring journey, showcasing how passion and innovation can lead to groundbreaking solutions.

Minter Dialogue with Maria Ross In the latest episode of my podcast, I had the pleasure of welcoming back Maria Ross, an empathy advocate, speaker, author, workshop facilitator, and brand strategist. It's been four years since Maria last joined us, and she has continued to champion the cause of empathy in leadership and business. Her new book, "The Empathy Dilemma: How Successful Leaders Balance Performance, People, and Personal Boundaries," explores the complexities of applying empathy in the workplace, especially in a post-pandemic world. Maria shared her journey into empathy advocacy, which began with a life-altering brain aneurysm at 35. This experience shaped her understanding of empathy, particularly in healthcare, where she discovered the power of patient and family-centred care. We discussed how empathy can be operationalised in healthcare and business to improve outcomes and satisfaction. We also delved into the connection between empathy and resilience, emphasising the importance of self-awareness and self-care. Maria highlighted the role of psychological safety in fostering an empathetic workplace and the need for mutual trust between leaders and employees. For more insights, you can connect with Maria through her website, The Empathy Dilemma : https://theempathydilemma.com, on Instagram at @redslice.maria, or on LinkedIn.

Welcome and Introduction - Minter Dial welcomes Jay Baer back to the show after five years. - Introduction of Jay Baer as a business growth and customer experience researcher, author, expert, and advisor. Jay Baer's Background and Expertise - Jay Baer shares his extensive experience in digital marketing and customer experience. - Discussion of his new book, "Time to Win," and its powerful insights. The Importance of Domain Names in Branding - Jay Baer explains the process of choosing book titles and securing domain names. - Emphasis on the significance of having a memorable and relevant domain name for branding. Empathy and Customer Experience - Jay Baer and Minter Dial discuss the decline of empathy in business interactions. - Jay highlights the importance of treating customers with dignity, respect, and kindness. - The concept of an "empathy deficit" in modern business and its implications. Efficiency vs. Empathy in Business - Exploration of the tension between efficiency and empathy in customer service. - Jay Baer argues that true empathy is circumstantial and requires understanding individual customer needs. - The challenge of balancing efficiency with genuine customer care. The Role of Speed in Customer Satisfaction - Jay Baer discusses the critical role of speed in customer experience. - The concept of "responding without answers" to manage customer expectations. - The importance of setting realistic expectations for response times. Internal Communication and Organisational Efficiency - The necessity of fast internal communication to achieve external responsiveness. - Jay Baer emphasises the need for internal cohesion and alignment to meet customer expectations. The Future of AI in Customer Service - Jay Baer predicts the increasing role of AI in customer service and its impact on job roles. - Discussion on the balance between AI efficiency and maintaining a human touch in interactions. Setting Expectations and Managing Customer Perceptions - The importance of setting clear expectations for response times and service delivery. - Jay Baer shares examples of how businesses can manage customer perceptions through effective communication. Conclusion and Contact Information - Minter Dial praises Jay Baer's pragmatic solutions and engaging insights. - Information on how to contact Jay Baer, hire him for speaking engagements, and access his books. - Mention of Jay Baer's website (jaybaer.com) and the book's website (thetimetowin.com) for further resources and research. Final Thoughts - Minter Dial reflects on the importance of balancing speed, empathy, and efficiency in business. - Encouragement for listeners to apply Jay Baer's principles to improve their customer experience strategies.

Minter Dialogue with Torsten Hoffmann Torsten Hoffmann, a filmmaker and techno optimist with a passion for emerging technologies. Torsten's journey from Munich to Melbourne and finally to London is as fascinating as his career in documentary filmmaking. His insights into the world of artificial intelligence and space exploration are not to be missed. From Business Deals to Filmmaking Torsten's transition from the business side of documentaries to becoming a filmmaker himself is a story of curiosity and passion. Initially involved in selling documentary packages to platforms like Netflix and Samsung, he realised that filmmaking was not an insurmountable challenge. His first documentary on bitcoin, inspired by his academic work on alternative currencies, marked the beginning of his journey into the world of documentaries. Despite its modest budget, the film's success set the stage for his future projects. The Allure of Space Torsten's latest documentary, "Fortitude," delves into the burgeoning space industry. He discusses the various facets of space exploration, from the geopolitical motivations of the past to the current commercialisation efforts. The film explores the economic potential of space, highlighting the significant reduction in costs and the technological advancements that are making space more accessible. The Hype Cycle and Timing One of the key themes Torsten touches upon is the importance of timing in the success of technological ventures. Using the example of bitcoin and the space industry, he explains how being at the right place at the right time can lead to viral success. His films mirror the hype cycles of the technologies they cover, capturing the zeitgeist and riding the wave of public interest. The Future of Space Exploration Torsten's optimism about the future of space is tempered by concerns about space debris and the potential for geopolitical conflicts. However, he remains hopeful about the scientific and commercial opportunities that space offers. His film "Fortitude" aims to inspire a new generation of space enthusiasts and highlight the economic potential of space technologies. The Art of Documentary Filmmaking Creating a documentary is a labour of love for Torsten. He invests his own time and money, often without a script, allowing the project to evolve organically. This approach, while risky, results in a more authentic and engaging film. His dedication to capturing detailed and factual content sets his work apart in a landscape often dominated by lighter, less rigorous productions. The Role of Space in Everyday Life Torsten's insights into the practical applications of space technology are eye-opening. From improving agricultural practices to tracking environmental changes, the data provided by satellites has far-reaching implications. He emphasises the importance of understanding these technologies, not just for their scientific value but for their potential to transform industries and improve lives. Looking Ahead As Torsten prepares for the release of "Fortitude," he is already contemplating his next project, which will focus on artificial intelligence and the future of work. His commitment to exploring cutting-edge technologies and their impact on society ensures that his future films will continue to be both informative and thought-provoking. For those interested in watching "Fortitude," it will be available on Apple TV, Amazon, and Torsten's own website. Engaging with his work through these platforms not only supports independent filmmaking but also provides an opportunity to delve deeper into the fascinating world of space exploration.

Minter Dialogue with Lidewij Niezink and Peter van der Putten Lidewij Niezink's Background and Current Work - Lidewij shares her extensive experience in empathy within psychology. - Recent focus on integrating AI into applied psychology at Hanze University. - Exploration of using AI, particularly chatbots, in student projects to enhance their studies and professional development. Peter van der Putten's Background and Current Work - Peter discusses his long-standing fascination with AI since 1989. - His dual role as an assistant professor at Leiden University and director of the AI lab at Pegasystems. - Emphasis on AI's role in understanding human intelligence and emotions, and its application in customer interactions. Intersection of Empathy and AI - Minter highlights the guests' converging paths: Peter from AI to empathy, and Lidewij from empathy to AI. - Discussion on the potential of AI to assist in therapeutic contexts due to a shortage of human therapists. Defining Human Uniqueness - Peter and Lidewij debate what makes humans unique, considering empathy, consciousness, and irrationality. - Peter suggests that our projection of human qualities onto AI and other entities is a significant aspect of our interaction with technology. Empathy in AI and Human Interaction - Lidewij emphasises the importance of holding experiential space in empathy, avoiding projection and judgement. - Peter discusses the moral expectations in empathetic interactions, whether human or AI-driven. Challenges and Opportunities in AI Empathy - The guests explore the complexities of encoding empathy into AI, including the need for transparency and understanding the end goals of AI applications. - Peter shares insights from his research on AI's ability to understand and replicate human emotions and intentions. Practical Applications and Ethical Considerations - Lidewij and Peter discuss the practical applications of AI in customer service and the importance of aligning AI behaviour with company values. - The conversation touches on the ethical implications of AI empathy, including the need for transparency and the potential for AI to hold humans to higher standards. Conclusion and Call to Action - Lidewij invites collaboration on developing empathic AI applications, emphasising transparency and ethical considerations. - Peter highlights the importance of starting with a human perspective in AI development and shares resources for responsible AI use. Contact Information - Lidewij Niezink can be reached through her website, empathicintervision.com, and LinkedIn. - Peter van der Putten's work can be explored further through Pega.AI and his academic research, accessible via a simple Google search.

Minter Dialogue with Mark Hurst In this episode of the podcast, Minter Dial welcomes Mark Hurst, a digital strategy expert and founder of Creative Good. The conversation begins with a nostalgic reflection on their long-standing acquaintance and shared interests, particularly their collaborative work on World War II research. Mark delves into his career-long mission to improve technology for the benefit of users, highlighting his early optimism during the advent of the web in the mid-90s. He contrasts this with his current concerns about the unethical practices of the major tech companies. Mark discusses his radio show, Techtonic, which he started to address the negative impacts of these tech giants. He emphasises the importance of ethical considerations in technology development and criticises the industry's shift towards exploiting users for profit. The conversation also touches on the historical context of tech regulation, the role of customer feedback in product development, and the ethical dilemmas posed by modern capitalism. Minter and Mark explore the potential for more responsible business models, such as cooperatives and B Corporations, and reflect on the legacy of companies like Hewlett-Packard. The episode concludes with Mark recommending an insightful interview with astronomer Sam Lawler on his show, which highlights the broader implications of unchecked technological growth. If you've got comments or questions you'd like to see answered, send your email or audio file to nminterdial@gmail.com; or you can find the show notes and comment on minterdial.com. If you liked the podcast, please take a moment to go over to Apple Podcasts or your favourite podcast channel, to rate/review the show. Otherwise, you can find me @mdial on Twitter.

Minter Dialogue with Rob Greenlee Rob Greenlee is a veteran of the podcasting industry with a rich history in radio and online content. Rob shares his journey from radio to podcasting, highlighting his roles at Microsoft, PodcastOne, Spreaker, and Libsyn. The conversation delves into the evolution of podcasting, contrasting it with traditional radio, and discussing the impact of platforms like Spotify and Apple. We explore the global podcasting landscape, the role of AI in content creation, and the tension between maintaining podcasting's authenticity and commercial pressures. Rob also touches on the importance of trust in media and the potential for branded podcasts to build deeper connections with audiences. If you've got comments or questions you'd like to see answered, send your email or audio file to nminterdial@gmail.com; or you can find the show notes and comment on minterdial.com. If you liked the podcast, please take a moment to go over to Apple Podcasts or your favourite podcast channel, to rate/review the show. Otherwise, you can find me @mdial on Twitter. 00:00:05 Welcome 00:01:35: Introduction of Rob Greenlee 00:05:39: Rob Greenlee's Background and Early Career 05:18: Transition from Radio to Podcasting 06:30: Learning and Unlearning from Radio to Podcasting 08:50: Challenges of Producing Radio Shows 10:63: Differences Between Radio and Podcasting 12:54: Trust and Reality in Radio vs. Podcasting 15:08: Commercial Influences on Podcasting 18:07: Current State of Podcasting 20:24: Global Differences in Podcasting 21:38: Distribution and Data in Podcasting 24:11: Chinese Podcast Market 26:43: Ecosystem Around Podcasting 29:31: Big Tech Companies in Podcasting 31:59: Spotify vs. Apple in Podcasting 33:42: Monetization and Premium Content in Podcasting 35:09: Importance of Voice in Podcasting 37:39: Transition to Video in Podcasting 42:30: YouTube's Role in Podcasting 43:45: Rob's Approach to Speaking to an Audience 48:15: Role of AI in Podcasting 51:66: Free Speech and Content Moderation in Podcasting 54:29: Podcasting for Brand Marketers 58:22: Rob's Show "Trust Factor" 1:07:30: Where to Find Rob Greenlee's Content 1:10:53: Conclusion and Thank You

Minter Dialogue with Pete Steege In this episode, I host Pete Steege, a seasoned marketing expert and author of "On Purpose: The CEO's Guide to Marketing with Meaning." Pete shares his journey from electrical engineering to a 30-year career in marketing, focusing on the importance of meaningful marketing in technical industries. The discussion delves into the evolution of marketing, the significance of understanding customer needs, and the challenges of maintaining clarity and consistency in marketing messages. Pete emphasises the value of generosity, authenticity, and simplicity in marketing strategies. The conversation also explores the role of CEOs in embodying the brand and the impact of AI on marketing. This episode is a treasure trove of insights for anyone interested in effective marketing and leadership. If you've got comments or questions you'd like to see answered, send your email or audio file to nminterdial@gmail.com; or you can find the show notes and comment on minterdial.com. If you liked the podcast, please take a moment to go over to Apple Podcasts or your favourite podcast channel, to rate/review the show. Otherwise, you can find me @mdial on Twitter.

Minter Dialogue with Zoltan Vass In the latest episode of our podcast, I had the pleasure of hosting Zoltan Vass, a transformation director with a focus on technology, processes, and people. Zoltan's journey from Yugoslavia to the UK is not just a tale of geographical relocation but a profound narrative of resilience, adaptability, and the relentless pursuit of creating collaborative environments. A significant portion of our discussion revolved around the future of work, particularly in the context of remote and flexible working environments. Zoltan emphasised the importance of trust, ownership, and creating a safe environment where employees feel valued and supported. He advocates for a 100% flexible work model, where employees can choose their work environment, be it the office, home, or a coffee shop, based on what suits them best. We discuss how leaders and organisations might navigate the evolving landscape of work, including concepts such as wellness, sleep, the four-day work week, and how companies can implement shift patterns to ensure continuous coverage while allowing employees to enjoy longer weekends, thus boosting morale and efficiency. If you've got comments or questions you'd like to see answered, send your email or audio file to nminterdial@gmail.com; or you can find the show notes and comment on minterdial.com. If you liked the podcast, please take a moment to go over to Apple Podcasts or your favourite podcast channel, to rate/review the show. Otherwise, you can find me @mdial on Twitter.

Minter Dialogue with Chris Daly In our latest podcast episode, we had the pleasure of speaking with Chris Daly, the CEO of the Chartered Institute of Marketing (CIM). Chris's journey from serving as a major in the British Army to leading one of the most respected marketing bodies in the world is nothing short of inspiring. His diverse experiences have shaped his unique perspective on marketing, leadership, and the ethical challenges that come with it. Chris begins by sharing his early career in the British Army, where he learned invaluable lessons about leadership, empathy, and the importance of a team ethos. These experiences were pivotal in shaping his approach to marketing and leadership. Transitioning from the military to the Central Office of Information, Chris gained insights into the world of diplomacy and the power of effective communication. He reflects on how these roles, though seemingly distant from the commercial world of marketing, provided a solid foundation for his current role. One of the key themes Chris discusses is the evolution of marketing. He emphasizes that marketing today is far more complex and multifaceted than it used to be. It's no longer just about selling products; it's about understanding the audience, communicating effectively, and delivering value. The role of marketing has expanded to include ethical considerations, data privacy, and the impact of AI. Chris passionately argues that marketing is not just the "coloring in department" but a crucial element that drives measurable outcomes and aligns with business goals. If you've got comments or questions you'd like to see answered, send your email or audio file to nminterdial@gmail.com; or you can find the show notes and comment on minterdial.com. If you liked the podcast, please take a moment to go over to Apple Podcasts or your favourite podcast channel, to rate/review the show. Otherwise, you can find me @mdial on Twitter.

Minter Dialogue with Markus Ernsten Dive into the essence of leadership with Markus Ernsten, a seasoned mentor, coach, and the author of "True Leadership Comes from Within." In this episode, Markus shares his rich life experiences and insights into what constitutes genuine leadership. He challenges the traditional notions of leadership that prioritize external validation and self-presentation over internal growth and self-steering. With a background spanning engineering, sales, and mentorship, Markus offers a unique perspective on the evolution of leadership in the face of digital transformation and generational shifts in the workplace. Discover why Markus believes empathy, fairness, and respect are crucial in both professional and personal breakups. Learn about the power of gratefulness and how it can transform pain into satisfaction. Markus also touches on the differences in leadership styles across cultures and genders, proposing that women may inherently possess traits that make them more effective leaders.The conversation takes a deep dive into the challenges of leading during uncertain times, the importance of balancing hard facts with human feelings, and the courage required to let go and trust in the collective knowledge of a team. Markus also emphasizes the importance of smaller, more calculated decisions in navigating change.For leaders, aspiring leaders, and anyone interested in personal growth and effective management, this episode is a treasure trove of wisdom. Connect with Markus Ernsten through his website, LinkedIn, or grab a copy of his book on Amazon. Join us for a thought-provoking journey into the heart of true leadership. 00:00 - True leadership comes from within, says Markus Ernsten. 00:22 - Markus is a mentor and coach who helps people improve their lives 02:47 - You talk a lot about gratefulness during your breakup 09:07 - Markus wrote a book on leadership and why did he write it 14:01 - Is this a German centric view or is it mostly global 15:49 - What about German leadership? Is there anything unique or stands out 20:48 - What about successful role models as leaders?  26:54 - There are hundreds of leadership books out there, but why are we still writing them? 31:19 - Integrity is the first step to true greatness, says Charles Simmons 33:45 - What in your experience is the key to transforming your culture 42:39 - Post COVID managers often expect more autonomy, self responsibility, initiative 44:53 - Markus: Leadership in uncertain times is different from leadership in normal times 47:44 - Markus: When there's uncertainty, a major leader gives direction 50:25 - How can someone find Markus, get your book, hire you If you've got comments or questions you'd like to see answered, send your email or audio file to nminterdial@gmail.com; or you can find the show notes and comment on minterdial.com. If you liked the podcast, please take a moment to go over to Apple Podcasts or your favourite podcast channel, to rate/review the show. Otherwise, you can find me @mdial on Twitter.