Business development is tough. Cold calls go unanswered, emails are ignored, and introductions rarely stick. But what if there was a better way to build influence, win opportunities, and create growth?In this episode of Shifting Views with Willis, I speak with Bob Spence, a former executive at Coutts Bank and now a consultant and trainer who helps leaders and professionals build valuable networks. This conversation is not about handing out business cards or delivering slick elevator pitches. It is about how to create genuine, mutually beneficial connections that unlock doors in ways cold outreach never can.Bob shares stories and examples that show how real opportunities come from being part of the right network and why influence flows through the people you know and trust. Why valuable connections are the most powerful tool in business developmentThe limitations of cold calls, emails, and one-off introductionsHow to move beyond transactional networking into meaningful, long-term relationshipsReal stories of opportunities created through networksThe practical steps to build a network that works for you, and how the process opens doors in business and beyondNetworking is not only vital in business. It matters just as much in music, the arts, charities, hiring, sport and any arena where people and relationships are at the centre.If you are in sales, business development, or simply trying to grow your influence, this episode will give you a fresh perspective and actionable guidance on why your network might be your most important asset.🔗 Follow and subscribe for more conversations that shift views in business, community and society. #NetworkingTips #BusinessDevelopment #SalesStrategy #BuildConnections #ProfessionalGrowth #InfluenceMatters #ShiftingViews Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
I’m joined by Jonathan Leafe, former owner of the marketing agency Strawberry and coach to over 40 agency owners. We discuss the challenges faced by agency owners and service-based businesses more broadly in today’s fast-paced and competitive landscape.Jonathan shares his insights on:🎯 The key challenges and changes facing the marketing and advertising industry.🎯 How agency owners can adapt to thrive in a rapidly evolving world.🎯 The debate between being a generalist versus a specialist.🎯 Tips for spotting future trends and staying ahead of the competition.🎯 Navigating the AI and technology revolution.🎯 The must-have traits to grow as a marketing, advertising or digital agency.🎯 Revenue sources to keep your agency in profit.This episode is packed with practical advice for agency owners and service-based businesses looking to grow, adapt, and succeed in an ever-changing environment.Subscribe for more debate, advice and insight on how we shift views on the challenges facing business, community and society.#agencygrowth #marketingagency #businessleadership #agencyowner #businesssuccess #marketingtrends #ShiftingViews #marketinginsights #adlife Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
What is solarpunk and why is it gaining momentum? Can storytelling and citizen science shape a more hopeful, sustainable future?In this episode of Shifting Views with Willis, I’m joined by Alan Raw — former BBC journalist, creative practitioner, eco-activist, and author of the solarpunk novel Salt & Seeds. We explore how creative thinking, community action, and alternative knowledge networks like Grokkist are helping us reimagine life in a world facing climate breakdown.This is a conversation about optimism, systems change, and the quiet power of imagining something better.🔍 What we talk about in this episode:🌱 What is Solarpunk and why does it matter now?How solarpunk fiction inspires action through connection, not conflictReplacing dystopian fear with practical hopeThe role of speculative fiction in imagining regenerative futures🧠 How does neurodivergent thinking help reimagine sustainability?Alan’s work with the Grokkist NetworkAlternative education, polymaths, and creative systems thinkingWriting as “future-pacing” and making sense of complexity📚 What inspired Salt & Seeds and what does it explore?Climate resilience, community knowledge, and ancient wisdomCitizen science and reclaiming shared knowledgeStorytelling as a tool for belonging and ecological awareness🤝 What can local communities do right now?Why grassroots change mattersBlending eco-tech with local wisdomEncouraging curiosity, connection, and collective action📣 If you enjoyed this episode…Follow or subscribe for more conversations on Shifting Views, Systems Change, Sustainability, and Creative FuturesLeave a review — it really helps us growShare this episode with someone who cares about building better futures Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Listeners' questions answered by Councillor Mike Ross, Leader of Hull City Council, during the recording of our recent 'Shifting Views with Willis' podcast.Thank you for all of your submissions.#HullPolitics #EastYorkshire #LocalGovernment #MikeRoss #HullAndEastYorkshire #Devolution #Populism #LiberalDemocrats #VoterEngagement #ShiftingViewsWithWillis #PoliticalLeadership #HumberRegion #PoliticalDivision #UKPolitics Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of Shifting Views with Willis, I sat down with Councillor Mike Ross, Leader of Hull City Council and former candidate for Hull and East Yorkshire's first elected mayor. Mike discusses the implications of devolution and the newly introduced mayoral system, offering insights into the opportunities and challenges ahead for the region.We discuss the outcome of the recent mayoral election, where Mike finished as the runner-up to a new Reform Candidate, and explore the low voter turnout, examining what it means for democracy in the area. Mike shares his views on how we can encourage more people to engage in local politics, the rise of populism, and how parties like the Liberal Democrats can provide an alternative that resonates with voters.If you're passionate about Hull, East Yorkshire, and the future of UK politics, this conversation is for you.#HullPolitics #EastYorkshire #LocalGovernment #MikeRoss #HullAndEastYorkshire #Devolution #Populism #LiberalDemocrats #VoterEngagement #ShiftingViewsWithWillis #PoliticalLeadership #HumberRegion #PoliticalDivision #UKPolitics #ReformParty #MayoralElection Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Sarah Agar-Brennan is the Head of Commercialisation at the University of Hull. Drawing from her experience as a successful (and sometimes failed) entrepreneur and her appearance on Dragons' Den, Sarah shares invaluable insights on university commercialisation, startup development, and becoming an entrepreneur.Discussion Points:- Why are university students best placed to create startup businesses?- The value of going to university, beyond academia.- The highs and lows of being an entrepreneur.- Sarah's experience of appearing on TV's Dragons Den.- How universities are adapting to add value and create new enterprises.- What you need to know as a new startup business.Whether you're a student entrepreneur, business professional, or academic, this conversation offers practical advice on bridging the gap between higher education and enterprise.#UniversityEnterprise #StartupAdvice #DragonsDen #BusinessInnovation #UKEntrepreneurship #HigherEducation #BusinessGrowth #UniversityOfHull Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Why do business leaders get marketing wrong? In this episode of Shifting Views with Willis, marketing strategist Tom Wardman reveals why treating marketing as an expense rather than a revenue driver is killing your business growth.If you're a CEO, founder, or business leader struggling to see ROI from your marketing efforts, this episode is your wake-up call. Discover:• Why traditional sales-focused marketing is dead• How to transform marketing from a cost centre into a profit engine• The secret to building customer trust that drives sustainable revenue• Real examples of companies that have revolutionised their growth through strategic marketing• Practical steps to reshape your marketing approach for 2025 and beyondTom shares insights from working with countless business leaders, revealing the exact mindset shifts and strategic changes needed to reach marketing's true potential in your organisation.Whether you're sceptical about marketing's value or ready to rethink your approach, this conversation will challenge everything you think you know about growing your business.Subscribe to the Shifting Views with Willis podcast to stay updated with the latest episodes and shift views on business, community and society.#BusinessStrategy #MarketingROI #BusinessGrowth #CEOMindset #RevenueGrowth #BusinessLeadership #MarketingStrategy #DigitalMarketing #BusinessSuccess #MarketingTips #LeadershipDevelopment #BusinessTransformation #MarketingManagement #BusinessAdvice #ExecutiveLeadership #CorporateStrategy #GrowthStrategy #MarketingLeadership #BusinessInnovation #RevenueGeneration Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of Shifting Views with Willis, Professor Carl Grombrich challenges traditional perspectives on higher education. As Dean of London Interdisciplinary School and creator of UCL's groundbreaking Arts and Sciences degree, Carl shares how interdisciplinary learning better prepares graduates for our complex world.Is the traditional university offer still valuable for students? Does it prepare them for a world that is rapidly evolving, more complex and in need of more creative, critical and interdisciplinary thinking? Should students still opt for university in 2025 and will it serve them?Join us as we shift perspectives on what university education can be, exploring why breaking down subject silos creates more adaptable, innovative thinkers. Whether considering university, working in education, or leading a business, this conversation will transform your view on higher education's future.#ShiftingViews #FutureOfEducation #InterdisciplinaryLearning #HigherEducation #UniversityInnovation #GlobalSkills #university #universitychoices #HE Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
The AI revolution isn't coming - it's already here. In this episode of Shifting Views with Willis, tech innovator Darren Crombie cuts through the noise to show how we can harness AI's potential today. From transforming social care to revolutionising education, discover how Britain's organisations already use AI to solve real problems.Key insights:Why resistance to AI is futile - and why that's good newsHow organisations are already using AI to tackle social challengesMaking AI work for everyone - from students to the elderlyPractical ways to shape AI's developmentWhy 2025 will be the turning point for AI adoptionThis isn't about whether AI will change everything - it's about how we direct that change.#AIFuture #UKTech #AIforGood #FutureofWork #DigitalTransformation #TechforGood #AI2025 #Innovation #AIBritain #SocialImpact Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Join us on Shifting Views as we explore the inspiring mission of Kari Warberg Block - CEO of multi-million dollar US environmentally friendly pest control company EarthKind, and a passionate environmental advocate transforming how we think about sustainability, one pest control solution at a time.This episode delves into the heart of true environmental stewardship, where innovation meets purpose. Kari's journey isn't just about building a business; it's about reimagining our relationship with nature, challenging harmful industrial practices, and empowering everyday people to make earth-kind choices.Discover the powerful story of a visionary who believes that every small action can create significant environmental change. Learn how one woman's commitment to protecting our planet is reshaping industries, inspiring consumers, and proving that sustainable living isn't just possible - it's essential.Key Insights:Reimagining sustainability in everyday products.The power of purpose-driven entrepreneurship.Creating systemic change through innovative solutions.Empowering consumers to make earth-friendly choices.Bridging the gap between environmental passion and practical action.A must-listen for entrepreneurs, changemakers, environmental enthusiasts, and anyone seeking inspiration to make a real difference.#SustainableLiving #ClimateAction #EarthKindness #EcoInnovation #PurposeDrivenBusiness #EnvironmentalChange #SustainableEntrepreneurship #NatureSolutions #GlobalImpact #ConsciousBusiness #entrepreneur #shiftingviews #EarthKind Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
On Shifting Views with Willis, Matt Moore reveals his TikTok Shop success blueprint. A leading digital entrepreneur who's helped hundreds build online success using TikTok Shop, Matt breaks down exactly how to:• Start from zero with no experience• Reach 1000 followers on TikTok• Select winning products• Create content that converts sales• Potentially generate £10K in 90 daysMatt's credentials:- Successful TikTok Shop creator- Runs multiple online businesses- Hosts free workshops teaching TikTok Shop- Large online community of aspiring creatorsNo fluff, just proven strategies from someone who's mastered TikTok Shop with over 50 million views on TikTok in the last 6 months alone.#TikTokShop #SideHustle #OnlineBusiness #DigitalMarketing #PassiveIncome #CreatorEconomy #MakeMoneyOnline #EntrepreneurTips #ShiftingViews #TikTokShopSecrets #TikTokShopSeller Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Join us as we explore how Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) are more than just ethical imperatives—they're strategic advantages. In this episode of Shifting Views with Willis, I sit down with Giselle Marcus, Vice Dean of EDI at Washington University in St. Louis. Giselle is not only an academic leader but also a seasoned executive with experience managing multimillion-dollar business units at major corporations like AT&T and Accenture.What you’ll learn:How to frame EDI to engage skeptical business leaders.Common misconceptions about workplace inclusion.Why some leaders misinterpret EDI as a "box-ticking exercise."Real stories showcasing the impact of EDI on a company’s bottom line.Practical actions that leaders can take today to foster genuine inclusion.About Giselle Marcus: Giselle has a rich career in turning around underperforming business units and teaching DEI in the Olin Business School’s MBA program. Her work extends to speaking engagements and corporate governance, where she highlights how inclusive practices benefit both the workforce and financial outcomes. #Equity #Diversity #Inclusion #Leadership #BusinessSuccess #EDI #ShiftingViews #GiselleMarcus #ExecutiveInsights #CorporateLeadership #BusinessEthics Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Ever wondered if hypnotherapy could help you overcome personal and professional challenges? Clinical hypnotherapist Craig Meriwether joins me on the podcast to dive into what hypnotherapy really is—and what it isn’t.In this episode, we cover:How Hypnotherapy Works: Discover how this practice taps into your subconscious to break through barriers.Myth-Busting Hypnotherapy: Separating facts from entertainment myths; learn why a hypnotherapist can’t make you do things against your will.Mind Over Matter: Explore the power of the mind to help heal the body and reduce anxiety, build confidence, resolve trauma, and achieve success in your personal and professional life.Removing Mental Barriers: Understand how hypnotherapy can help you "de-hypnotise" yourself from limiting beliefs and negative patterns.If you're ready to take control of your mind and unlock your full potential, this episode is for you. #Hypnotherapy #AnxietyRelief #SelfImprovement #Mindset #PersonalGrowth #Hypnosis #PersonalImprovement #ShiftingViews Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this compelling episode of Shifting Views with Willis, host Wayne Willis welcomes seasoned educator Darren Squires to discuss the urgent need for a new approach to education. Together, they explore the limitations of today’s curriculum and assessment practices and consider ways to adapt education to better prepare students for a dynamic world.Key topics include:Rethinking Curriculum and Creativity: Should traditional subjects like math, science, and literature be integrated into creative disciplines? How can we strike a balance that values literacy without stifling creativity?New Approaches to Assessment: Today’s assessments often penalize students who understand concepts deeply but struggle with conventional literacy or numeracy. Is there a need for broader assessment methods that use technology, multimedia, storytelling, or podcasts to capture diverse expressions of understanding?Emphasising Critical Thinking and Life Skills: How can education reform prioritize creativity, critical thinking, and practical skills that students need for real-world challenges?Global Perspectives on Reform: Lessons from countries like Singapore show that vision and investment make educational transformation possible. What can we learn from these examples?Funding and Future-Proofing Education: A funding shortfall limits reform efforts and undermines long-term planning. We examine the critical role of investment in reshaping education for future needs.This conversation is essential for educators, policymakers, and leaders who seek a bold new vision for education—one that fosters creativity, values diverse skills, and prepares students for life beyond exams.#RethinkEducation #CreativeLearning #CurriculumReform #BeyondStandardisation #CriticalThinking #EdInnovation #NewAssessment #EducationTransformation #LearningForTheFuture #EdLeaders Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of Shifting Views with Willis, we dive deep into the concept of leadership in parenting with Janet Krebs, a parent strategist and author. Janet shares her powerful perspective on why parents should adopt the posture of a leader, similar to how we approach leadership in business or sports.We explore the idea that parents play multiple roles akin to an executive C-suite—handling finance, logistics, strategy, nutrition, and HR—within the household. Janet also discusses how home life and business life are connected, why it's important to ask why you want children, and how we can draw leadership lessons from beyond the realm of parenting.If you're a parent or aspiring to become one, this episode offers invaluable insights into how leadership principles can transform your role as a parent.Tune in and discover how you can become an influential leader in your children's lives!Reach out to Jent Krebs at https://www.janetkrebs.com/#ParentLeadership #FamilyCEO #ExecutiveParenting #LeadershipInParenting #JanetKrebs #ParentingAdvice #ShiftingViewsWithWillis #ParentStrategy #FamilyLife #LeadershipSkills #PodcastInterview #ParentingTips Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of Shifting Views with Willis, I'm joined by Michal Stawicki, a personal development and business coach known as "Mr. Consistency." Michal shares his insights on why developing good habits is the key to success in both life and business. We dive deep into how habits are formed, how to wire your brain for consistency, and why consistent behaviour is the cornerstone of personal and professional growth.Michal, the author of 19 books, also talks about his work as a trainer and consultant, helping entrepreneurs and individuals elevate their lives by instilling the power of good habits. Whether you're looking to improve your personal life, boost your business, or simply become more productive, this episode is packed with actionable tips to get you there!#PersonalDevelopment #BusinessCoach #HabitFormation #SuccessMindset #MichalStawicki #Consistency #EntrepreneurGrowth #SelfImprovement #ShiftingViewsPodcast #HabitsForSuccess #GoodHabits Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
From managing a two-household family to the unique challenges step-parents face, JP Marsh, a co-parenting expert, shares actionable strategies for thriving in co-parenting situations. Learn how to maintain a healthy relationship with an ex-spouse, navigate the tricky dynamics of step-parenting, and understand the long-term impact of single-parent households on children's life choices.JP also tackles a critical issue: why fathers often face challenges in custody hearings and how parents can collaborate to create a fair and balanced parenting arrangement. Finally, discover how to make a positive, supportive environment in multiple co-parenting setups, ensuring your children have the best chance in life despite the complexities.Whether you're navigating co-parenting for the first time or have been at it for years, this episode is packed with essential insights and practical tips for building a thriving family dynamic.#CoParenting #ParentingAfterDivorce #TwoHouseholds #StepParenting #CustodyBattles #SingleParentHomes #FathersRights #HealthyCoParenting #FamilyDynamics #ChildrensWellBeing #ParentingAdvice #FamilySupport Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of Shifting Views with Willis, my guest is Kathryn Holeton, a brand designer based in Tennessee USA, who works with musicians and artists to help them find their unique voice. Kathryn shares her insights on why it’s essential for fledgling artists, bands, and musicians to establish their message, values, and purpose early in their careers. It’s not just about a logo or a catchy song—it’s about building a brand that resonates with their audience.Kathryn discusses the key questions every artist should ask: What do you stand for? What are your values? How does your music connect with your fans? Whether you’re just starting out or looking to redefine your career, this episode breaks down how artists can use purpose-driven branding to cut through the noise in today’s competitive music industry.#MusicBranding #ArtistIdentity #MusicIndustryTips #MusicianAdvice #BrandStrategy #FledglingArtists #MusicianMarketing #ShiftingViews #PurposeDrivenBranding #CreativeBranding #MusicCareer #IndieArtists #bandmarketing Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this powerful episode of Shifting Views with Willis, we sit down with Jane Franks, an Endometriosis Mentor, to delve into the reality of living with endometriosis—a condition that affects many women worldwide. Jane shares her personal story, the struggles she’s faced, and how endometriosis has impacted her physically, mentally, and emotionally.Having battled the condition herself, Jane now dedicates her life to helping women identify symptoms, seek diagnoses, and find ways to live with endometriosis. This conversation goes beyond the physical toll, as we also discuss the emotional challenges and the critical role men can play in supporting the women in their lives who are affected by this condition.We cover:The symptoms and challenges of endometriosis.The emotional and mental impact of the condition.The risks of serious complications like hysterectomies, sepsis, and infertility.How men can better understand and support women dealing with this silent illness.This episode is a must-watch for anyone—women and men—looking to better understand endometriosis and help shift the conversation on women’s health.#Endometriosis #WomensHealth #ShiftingViews #Podcast #MensHealth #Support #endometriosissupport #hysterectomyrecovery Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode, we dive into the intersection of healthcare, innovation, and sustainability. Our guest, Pete Waddingham, National Net Zero Lead from the Health Innovation Network, shares how the NHS is embracing cutting-edge technologies and service improvements to enhance patient care and meet its ambitious Net Zero targets. We explore real-world examples of healthcare innovations that reduce the carbon footprint while delivering better patient outcomes.Tune in to learn how the healthcare sector is driving both environmental and economic benefits, and what the future holds for sustainable healthcare. Subscribe to the podcast to stay up to date with all of the latest episodes.#NetZero #HealthcareInnovation #SustainableHealthcare #GreenNHS #FutureOfHealth #DigitalHealth #PatientCare #EcoFriendly #HealthTech #Innovation #NHS #ClimateChange #CleanEnergy #HealthForThePlanet #Telemedicine #AIInHealthcare Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.