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Discussions with Creatives, Leaders, and Thinkers
265 Episodes
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Joanne Sweeney, the author of AI Playbook, CEO of the Public Sector Marketing Institute, and Owner of the Digital Training Institute, joins Host Simon Hodgkins on this episode of The Global Discussion. Joanne has worked at the intersection of journalism, communications, and digital transformation for many years, constantly adapting her skills to stay ahead of change. She has carved out a unique space as a trusted authority in public sector communications. In this episode, Joanne shares her journey from her early days as a journalist to becoming a leading voice on AI, digital strategy, and government communications.00:00 - Introduction to the episode and guest Joanne Sweeney00:26 - 25 years in communications, staying ahead through every digital wave02:48 - The aha moment, niching into public sector and launching a global mission06:03 - The Apprentice lesson, why scalability and focus changed everything10:33 - Exclusive, announcing The AI Playbook and who it is for14:08 - Creating a language for public sector marketing and Harvard takeaways20:15 - Lead with value, podcasts, and building trust over virality27:09 - Inside AIj, turning a career’s knowledge into practical AI productsListen to The Global Discussion• Spotify ► https://open.spotify.com/show/3QdMqfzyvca6EVlEJ80I4n• Web ► https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com• YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/@theglobaldiscussion/videos• Others ► LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and FacebookJoin the newsletter via the website for updates on new episodes.
Host Simon Hodgkins welcomes Alastair McDermott, an AI consultant, speaker, trainer, and the founder of HumanSpark•ai. Alastair is also the author of "Use AI, Stay Human" and the host of "The AI-Powered Business Leader" podcast. His perspective on artificial intelligence blends deep technical expertise with a clear focus on people, empathy, and real-world results.01:25 - Pivot to AI, rebranding to HumanSpark.ai, why he went all in03:14 - Human-first AI, empower teams, from productivity gains to transformation and learning07:38 - Case study, medical lab automation cuts processing from 90 minutes to two14:02 - Accuracy and evals, error checking, and why the EU AI Act matters17:22 - AGI outlook, the jagged edge of AI strengths and weaknesses21:56 - Writing Use AI, Stay Human, developmental editor, and synthetic beta readers32:48 - Free AI toolkits, adoption roadmap, where to find Alastair, closing remarksListen to The Global Discussion• Spotify ► https://open.spotify.com/show/3QdMqfzyvca6EVlEJ80I4n• Web ► https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com• YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/@theglobaldiscussion/videos• Others ► LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and FacebookJoin the newsletter via the website for updates on new episodes.
Jona Hysa, a London-based social media strategist, founder of Time4PA, and the driving force behind the Moving Women Forward community, speaks with Simon Hodgkins on this episode of The Global Discussion. Jona’s story is one of resilience, transformation, and a deep commitment to helping others thrive in both business and life.00:00 - Introduction to the episode and guest Jona Hysa01:07 - From Albania to London: Jona’s Journey02:20 - Starting as a Virtual Assistant04:32 - Building Confidence and Helping Businesses08:01 - The Social Media Landscape Today15:19 - SEO vs AI Optimization17:49 - Creating the Moving Women Forward Community29:25 - Key Takeaway: “I Did It” MindsetListen to The Global Discussion• Spotify ► https://open.spotify.com/show/3QdMqfzyvca6EVlEJ80I4n• Web ► https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com• YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/@theglobaldiscussion/videos• Others ► LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and FacebookJoin the newsletter via the website for updates on new episodes.
James Louttit, Founder and Lead Trainer at Impactful Project Management, is in discussion with Host Simon Hodgkins on The Global Discussion to discuss a common challenge faced by leaders and team members: how to deliver results without burning out.00:00 - Introduction to the episode and guest James Louttit00:40 - James’s hospital epiphany and shift from effort to impact04:59 - The eight lenses of project work with a focus on prioritization11:48 - From saying no to asking why, driving real prioritization decisions13:34 - The SAVE technique, practical tactics to kick start any project19:51 - Lean Coffee explained, surfacing issues and creating buy in24:24 - Risk based contingency, replacing blanket 10 to 20 percent buffers29:43 - Blending agile and waterfall, choosing what fits your team and contextListen to The Global Discussion• Spotify ► https://open.spotify.com/show/3QdMqfzyvca6EVlEJ80I4n• Web ► https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com• YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/@theglobaldiscussion/videos• Others ► LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and FacebookJoin the newsletter via the website for updates on new episodes.
Host Simon Hodgkins speaks with Iza Dabek, a Rapid Transformational Practitioner and Founder of Healing Habits Coaching. Iza works with high-achieving professionals, creatives, and founders to help them break through the subconscious patterns that keep them stuck, particularly those tied to self-sabotage, low confidence, and burnout.00:00 – Introduction to the episode and guest Úna Herlihy00:39 – Úna’s background in advertising and early career journey02:15 – Transition to freelancing in 2005 and early challenges06:49 – Impact of COVID-19 and how The Indie List began13:10 – How The Indie List is different from other freelance platforms22:16 – Providing business and compliance support for freelancers25:01 – The changing mindset of senior professionals post-COVID33:02 – Future focus on skills development and education initiativesListen to The Global Discussion• Spotify ► https://open.spotify.com/show/3QdMqfzyvca6EVlEJ80I4n• Web ► https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com• YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/@theglobaldiscussion/videos• Others ► LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and FacebookJoin the newsletter via the website for updates on new episodes.
Úna Herlihy, Founder & CEO and Chief Matchmaker at The Indie List, speaks with Host Simon Hodgkins in this episode of The Global Discussion. Based in Ireland, Úna built Ireland's leading curated freelance network for marketing and creative talent, bridging experienced professionals with purposeful clients through thoughtful matchmaking.00:00 – Introduction to the episode and guest Úna Herlihy00:39 – Úna’s background in advertising and early career journey02:15 – Transition to freelancing in 2005 and early challenges06:27 – Impact of COVID-19 and how The Indie List began13:14 – How The Indie List is different from other freelance platforms25:05 – The changing mindset of senior professionals post-COVID33:02 – Future focus on skills development and education initiativesListen to The Global Discussion• Spotify ► https://open.spotify.com/show/3QdMqfzyvca6EVlEJ80I4n• Web ► https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com• YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/@theglobaldiscussion/videos• Others ► LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and FacebookJoin the newsletter via the website for updates on new episodes.
When it comes to turning complex technologies into compelling stories, few do it with the clarity, warmth, and precision of Andie Cooper, International PR Director at Beachhut PR. On this episode of The Global Discussion, host Simon Hodgkins sat down with Andie to explore the evolving world of public relations, the unique challenges of working with tech companies, and the importance of communicating with purpose.00:00 – Introduction: Meet Andie Cooper of Beachhut PR02:45 – Why Local PR Comes First for Startups05:00 – Telling a Value-Driven Story, Not a Technical One07:43 – The Importance of Translating Complexity11:23 – Building Media Relationships That Last15:17 – Helping Founders Become Confident Spokespeople25:36 – How PR Has Evolved With Speed and New Channels32:33 – Using PR to Amplify Women in TechListen to The Global Discussion• Spotify ► https://open.spotify.com/show/3QdMqfzyvca6EVlEJ80I4n• Web ► https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com• YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/@theglobaldiscussion/videos• Others ► LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and FacebookJoin the newsletter via the website for updates on new episodes.
Jim Carlough, Chief Sales Officer at mPulse, is a seasoned leader with over 25 years of experience in healthcare and technology. With a proven track record of empowering leaders and launching his new book, Six Pillars of Effective Leadership, Jim joins Simon Hodgkins to unpack how integrity, empathy, and laughter can define outstanding leadership in today's world.00:00 – Introduction Jim Carlough 01:03 – From Healthcare & Tech to Mentoring 04:36 – Pillar 1: Integrity & Trust 05:00 – Authoritarian vs Human Leadership 06:29 – Compassion vs Empathy Defined 07:45 – Stability, Focus & the Bezos Example 08:27 – Humor as a Leadership Tool 13:32 – Lifelong Learning & Mentors 16:39 – Remote Leadership & Video Connection 20:00 – Burnout, Well‑Being & Duty of Care 21:59 – Coaching Program & Future Plans 24:40 – Connect with Jim & Book Info 25:44 – Closing Thoughts on OptimismListen to The Global Discussion• Spotify ► https://open.spotify.com/show/3QdMqfzyvca6EVlEJ80I4n• Web ► https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com• YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/@theglobaldiscussion/videos• Others ► LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and FacebookJoin the newsletter via the website for updates on new episodes.
If you've been wondering how SEO is evolving in the age of AI, this episode of The Global Discussion is one you'll want to spend time with. Host Simon Hodgkins is joined by Maeva Cifuentes, Founder of Flying Cat Marketing, to discuss the shifting landscape of search, content, and digital strategy.Maeva brings sharp insight, deep experience, and a clear voice to conversations that cut through the hype and get to what matters for businesses today.00:40 – How SEO and Search Are Evolving with AI01:10 – Why Ranking #1 Doesn’t Always Mean Clicks03:05 – The Hidden Cost of Ignoring Technical SEO05:00 – Rethinking SEO Metrics in the Age of AI Overviews06:00 – Chasing LLM Visibility: What Actually Matters08:15 – Why Domain Expertise Beats High-Volume Content11:42 – How Brands Can Start Ranking in AI Results22:02 – Empowering Ambitious Women Toward LeadershipListen to The Global Discussion• Spotify ► https://open.spotify.com/show/3QdMqfzyvca6EVlEJ80I4n• Web ► https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com• YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/@theglobaldiscussion/videos• Others ► LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and FacebookJoin the newsletter via the website for updates on new episodes
Niamh Cooper has a way with words. Whether she's helping a global brand craft compelling content or guiding aspiring writers to start their first story, her passion for storytelling runs deep.00:00 – Introduction: Meet Niamh Cooper03:40 – Launching “Word Matters”04:13 – Writing for Humans in an AI World10:12 – Enter the Stan Challenge13:00 – Starting a 30-Day Writing Challenge16:16 – The “Find Your Voice” Retreat20:04 – What’s Ahead: Word Matters & Beyond24:11 – Final Thoughts: Reignite Your VoiceWatch or Listen to The Global DiscussionSpotify ► https://open.spotify.com/show/3QdMqfzyvca6EVlEJ80I4nWeb ► https://www.theglobaldiscussion.comYouTube ► / @theglobaldiscussion Others ► LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and Facebook Join the newsletter via the website for updates on new episodes
Jamie Schwartzman, Founder of Flux Branding and a seasoned brand strategist with over three decades of experience in creative direction, psychology, and business transformation, speaks with Host Simon Hodgkins in this episode.00:00 – Introduction & Welcome01:07 – What Is Brand Strategy?03:14 – Brand as a Long-Term Asset05:25 – How AI Is Changing Branding09:20 – The IDEA Method Explained15:22 – The Concept Behind “Brilliant”20:38 – What's Ahead: AI, Ethics & Embracing Change25:55 – Final Thoughts: Find Your RadianceWatch or Listen to The Global DiscussionSpotify ► https://open.spotify.com/show/3QdMqfzyvca6EVlEJ80I4nWeb ► https://www.theglobaldiscussion.comYouTube ► / @theglobaldiscussion Others ► LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and Facebook Join the newsletter via the website for updates on new episodes
There's something quietly electric about hearing someone talk when they've truly followed a hunch into uncharted territory and made something real out of it. That was the vibe when Pia Mailhot-Leichter, founder of Kollektiv Studio and author of Welcome to the Creative Club, joined The Global Discussion podcast with Host Simon Hodgkins.00:00 - Welcome and Introduction00:51 - Agency Life as a Creative SWAT Team02:45 - The "Extinction Moment" That Changed Everything03:47 - A Winding Path from NYC to Copenhagen08:12 - Creativity Meets Coaching: A New Kind of Work16:21 - Writing Welcome to the Creative Club22:38 - What's Next: Audio Projects and Creative Flow26:34 - A Parting Challenge for the CreativesWatch or Listen to The Global DiscussionSpotify ► https://open.spotify.com/show/3QdMqfzyvca6EVlEJ80I4nWeb ► https://www.theglobaldiscussion.comYouTube ► / @theglobaldiscussion Others ► LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and Facebook Join the newsletter via the website for updates on new episodes
Host Simon Hodgkins catches up with David Carson, a marketing innovator and creative strategist who has turned the idea of "dumb thinking" into a superpower. With a rich background in advertising, entertainment, and brand innovation, David shares his unconventional philosophy that might inspire your next big idea.00:00 - Introduction & Welcome01:45 - Dumb Ideas as the Secret Sauce02:19 - What is Demify?05:25 - Dumb Ideas that Changed the World10:05 - The Trap of Being Too Smart15:09 - AI & Generating Dumb Ideas20:38 - Working with Big Brands26:07 - Final Thoughts: Let Your Dumb Ideas FlyListen to The Global DiscussionSpotify ► https://open.spotify.com/show/3QdMqfzyvca6EVlEJ80I4nWeb ► https://www.theglobaldiscussion.comYouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/@theglobaldiscussion/videosOthers ► LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and Facebook Join the newsletter via the website for updates on new episodes
Host Simon Hodgkins welcomed a genuinely inspiring guest: Kim Mackenzie-Doyle, Instigator and CEO of The Big Idea. With a powerful personal story and a passion for reshaping education through creativity and problem-solving, Kim is not just talking about change—she’s building it from the ground up.00:00 – Welcome & Guest Introduction00:26 – From Trauma to Firestarter02:10 – Discovering Design & Defying Expectations03:40 – The Birth of The Big Idea06:30 – Education Reform, ADHD, & Mass Collaboration09:59 – Behind the Scenes: How The Big Idea Works12:33 – Real Stories, Real Impact15:05 – What’s Next for The Big Idea & KimListen to The Global DiscussionSpotify ► https://open.spotify.com/show/3QdMqfzyvca6EVlEJ80I4nWeb ► https://www.theglobaldiscussion.comYouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/@theglobaldiscussion/videosOthers ► LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and Facebook Join the newsletter via the website for updates on new episodes
In this episode of The Global Discussion, Matt Lyles—Customer Experience (CX) Consultant, Keynote Speaker, and member of the Board of Directors at CX Accelerator, joins Host Simon Hodgkins for a wide-ranging conversation that unpacked the evolving world of customer and employee experience. With a career rooted in marketing, brand management, and CX leadership at FedEx, Matt now helps businesses worldwide build loyalty through one powerful principle: simplicity.00:00 - Welcome & Introduction to Matt Lyles00:44 - Matt’s Journey: From FedEx to CX Consultant04:11 - AI vs. Human Touch: Finding the Right Balance in CX06:59 - Airline Industry Lessons: Loyalty vs. Cost-Cutting09:42 - The Power of Community: What is CX Accelerator?12:50 - The Business Case for Customer Experience and Simplicity15:33 - The Simple Brand Podcast and the Link Between CX & Employee ExperienceListen to The Global Discussion• Spotify ► https://open.spotify.com/show/3QdMqfzyvca6EVlEJ80I4n• Web ► https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com• YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/@theglobaldiscussion/videos• Others ► LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and Facebook Join the newsletter via the website for updates on new episodesFollow The Global Discussion on LinkedIn, YouTube, Spotify, and more! Stay tuned for more inspiring stories from Creatives, Leaders, and Thinkers on The Global Discussion. Join the newsletter for updates on new episodes.
In this episode of The Global Discussion, Host Simon Hodgkins speaks with Jamie Mackenzie, a multi-bestselling author, international speaker, and coach. Jamie's journey is one of transformation—shifting from a high-flying corporate career to a mission-driven path focused on growth and storytelling. His passion for the power of stories has not only shaped his own success but is now inspiring businesses, individuals, and even schools.00:00 Introduction02:20 The Story Behind 28 Bags of Sprouts09:34 From Corporate CMO to Bestselling Author14:49 Who Jamie Works With19:27 The Role of AI in Storytelling23:24 Looking Ahead: The Next 12 Months25:37 Final Thoughts & How to ConnectListen to The Global Discussion• Spotify ► https://open.spotify.com/show/3QdMqfzyvca6EVlEJ80I4n• Web ► https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com• YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/@theglobaldiscussion/videos• Others ► LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and Facebook Join the newsletter via the website for updates on new episodes
Mack Garrison, Co-Founder of Dash Studio, a high-end animation and motion design agency, joins Host Simon Hodgkins on this episode of The Global Discussion. Mack's passion for creativity, problem-solving, and community-building shone through as he shared insights on the evolving landscape of motion design, marketing, and the power of authentic storytelling.00:00 - Introduction00:26 - How Mack Garrison Got Into Motion Design03:10 - What Is High-End Animation and Motion Design05:55 - The Secret to High-End Content & Authenticity09:10 - The Changing Marketing Landscape & The Digital Shelf14:11 - The Future of Creative Work & Remote Collaboration18:37 - AI in Motion Design: Opportunity or Threat?Listen to The Global Discussion• Spotify ► https://open.spotify.com/show/3QdMqfzyvca6EVlEJ80I4n• Web ► https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com• YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/@theglobaldiscussion/videos• Others ► LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and Facebook Join the newsletter via the website for updates on new episodes
Jaime Schwarz joined The Global Discussion podcast with Host Simon Hodgkins, offering deep insights into the future of branding, AI-driven brand identity, and the evolving role of businesses in a post-AI world. His journey—from a successful career in advertising to pioneering brand therapy and digital authentication—reveals a visionary approach to brand-building that prioritizes authenticity, adaptability, and technological evolution.00:00 - Welcome & Introduction01:00 - From Psychology to Advertising03:15 - Brand Therapy - Empowering Brands to Listen and Speak06:30 - How AI is Changing Branding10:45 - The Power of Team Flow in Business15:20 - Web3 & The Future of Digital Ownership18:50 - The Entrepreneurial Mindset: Founders vs. Business BuildersListen to The Global Discussion• Spotify ► https://open.spotify.com/show/3QdMqfzyvca6EVlEJ80I4n• Web ► https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com• YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/@theglobaldiscussion/videos• Others ► LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and Facebook Join the newsletter via the website for updates on new episodes
Billy Samoa Saleebey, Co-Founder and CEO of Podify, joins Host Simon Hodgkins in this episode of The Global Discussion. Billy shared his incredible journey—from making films in Hollywood to revolutionizing onboarding at Tesla and now leading the charge in the podcasting industry.00:00 - Welcome & Introduction00:54 - From Hollywood to Solar Energy03:11 - Working at Tesla & Creating a Global Onboarding Program04:18 - The Shift to Podcasting & Founding Podify06:54 - Lessons from Podcasting & First Principles Thinking10:53 - The Secret to Podcast Growth & What Makes a Show Shareable22:37 - Why YouTube is Essential for Podcasters30:31 - Final Thoughts & How to Connect with BillyListen to The Global Discussion• Spotify ► https://open.spotify.com/show/3QdMqfzyvca6EVlEJ80I4n• Web ► https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com• YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/@theglobaldiscussion/videos• Others ► LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and Facebook Join the newsletter via the website for updates on new episodes
Erica Orange, Partner at The Future Hunters, a leading futurist consulting firm, joined host Simon Hodgkins on The Global Discussion podcast for an insightful conversation on the future of AI, human adaptability, and the evolving landscape of truth. With nearly two decades of experience, Erica brings a deep understanding of sociocultural, technological, economic, geopolitical, and environmental trends—translating them into actionable strategies for organizations worldwide.00:00 - Introduction & Welcome to The Global Discussion00:22 - Erica Orange on Becoming a Futurist & The Future Hunters03:32 - AI, Time, Trust & Truth: Exploring AI and the New Human Frontier06:44 - Separating AI Hype from Reality: What Can & Can’t AI Do?10:28 - The Challenge of Misinformation & The Carnival Funhouse Effect14:26 - The Future of Power: Billionaires, Governments & AI20:51 - The Rise of Digital Labor & The Neo-Human Workforce25:59 - Final Thoughts: How to Prepare for the FutureListen to The Global Discussion• Spotify ► https://open.spotify.com/show/3QdMqfzyvca6EVlEJ80I4n• Web ► https://www.theglobaldiscussion.com• YouTube ► https://www.youtube.com/@theglobaldiscussion/videos• Others ► LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and Facebook Join the newsletter via the website for updates on new episodes
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