The Legendary Leaders Podcast

Do you ever feel like you’re chasing status, promotions, or recognition only to arrive and still feel unfulfilled? What if leadership wasn’t about control, but about creative direction and truly designing a life and career that excites you?   In this inspiring episode of Legendary Leaders, host Cathleen sits down with Vincent Wanga, dynamic design thought leader, brand strategist, creative executive, and author of The Art of Direction. Vincent’s story bridges cultures and continents: from a Kenyan childhood, to hustling through setbacks in America, to helping build a billion-dollar tech unicorn. Along the way, he’s developed a philosophy of relentless adaptability, creative courage, and leadership that unlocks the best in others.   If you’re craving more meaning, momentum, or creativity in your leadership journey, this episode will energise you to rethink what’s possible.   Episode Timeline:   00:00 Introduction: Reframing creativity   02:45 Why chasing titles leaves us empty   07:02 From adversity to agency  13:04 Immigrant perspective: adaptability, onlyness and resilience   19:43 Building skills across industries & the power of pivoting   22:23 Embracing (and loving) imposter syndrome   33:47 Really listening and redefining expertise 41:28 The humility of leadership: paying yourself last   49:56 Nurturing leadership in teams and creating safe cultures   1:07:07 Vincent’s leap into tech, loss, and building billion-dollar unicorns   1:13:43 Making adversity your rocket fuel (and what’s next for Vincent)     Key Takeaways: Leadership is not about titles or control, but about creative direction and meaningful impact. Your darkest failures and detours are the rocket fuel for reinvention. If you want clients, teams, or work that truly excites you. Be both your boldest advocate and your most humble student.   About Vincent Wanga: Vincent Wanga is a dynamic international design thought leader, creative keynote speaker, award-winning creative and executive, author of The Art of Direction, serial entrepreneur, and experienced brand consultant with an exceptional range of expertise over a distinguished two-decade career.   Connect with Vincent: Website: https://www.vincentwanga.com  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vincent-wanga Book:https://www.amazon.com/Art-Direction-Personal-Perspectives-Leadership/dp/B0DWR3911D Connect: 
  Find | Cathleen O’Sullivan  Business: https://cathleenosullivan.com/  Email: cmc@cathleenmerkelcoaching.com  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathleen-merkel/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/legendary_leaders_cathleenos/     FOLLOW LEGENDARY LEADERS ON APPLE, SPOTIFY OR WHEREVER YOU LISTEN TO YOUR PODCASTS

Have you ever wondered why, no matter how big your ideas or how talented your team, you keep running into the same old obstacles at work? Today, in Legendary Leaders, Cathleen O'Sullivan, is talking to Doug Hall,  renowned innovation expert, founder of Eureka Ranch and Brain Brew Distillery, and author of  Proactive Problem Solving. Doug is on a mission to help leaders everywhere "stop the stupid" and restore real joy and creativity to the workplace.   If you’re tired of endless meetings, redundant tasks, and systems that just don’t make sense, get ready. This episode is packed with real-world examples, practical strategies you can apply today, and leadership insights you won’t find anywhere else. Episode Timeline: 00:00  The “Stop the Stupid” mission with Doug Hall 02:19  Leadership’s silent killer, and the surprising truth about wasted time 08:49 Doug’s journey; real-life stories of broken systems and how tiny changes spark massive engagement 11:08 Enable employees to proactively solve problems 18:13 Focus on fundamental processes and effective communication 25:29  Getting leaders onboard  36:09 Saving 3.5 hours a day stopping the stupid 47:33 Collaborative problem-solving breakthrough 01:03:56 Unclear strategic direction issues 01:19:33 Embrace authentic innovation Key Takeaways: “Stop the stupid” is a powerful lens: Most wasted time and disengagement in companies come from outdated or broken systems Managers waste 3.5 hours a day on avoidable problems caused by dysfunctional processes and unclear communication. Proactive problem-solving is a skill not an accident: Doug outlines a three-step system that can increase your team’s effectiveness by up to 500%.   About Doug Hall Doug Hall is an innovation expert, founder of Eureka Ranch and Brain Brew Distillery, and the author of the book Proactive Problem Solving. With nearly 50 years of experience in leadership, innovation, and entrepreneurship, Doug’s passion centers on helping organizations “stop the stupid”—his signature phrase for eliminating outdated systems that destroy productivity and creativity at work. Renowned for his energetic and practical approach, Doug translates complex innovation strategies into simple, actionable steps. He has worked with some of the world’s largest companies, like Nike and Disney, and brings to the table real-world stories from both consulting and running his own rapidly-scaling bourbon business. Doug’s mission is to empower leaders at all levels to create smarter, more engaging workplaces by tackling broken systems head-on and igniting the problem-solving power within their teams.   Connect with Doug:  Website: www.doughall.com Connect: 
  Find | Cathleen O’Sullivan  Business: https://cathleenosullivan.com/  Email: cmc@cathleenmerkelcoaching.com  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathleen-merkel/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/legendary_leaders_cathleenos/     FOLLOW LEGENDARY LEADERS ON APPLE, SPOTIFY OR WHEREVER YOU LISTEN TO YOUR PODCASTS  

Have you ever found yourself stuck in the cycle of trying to be the “perfect” leader (always switched on, always in control) only to end up burned out and disconnected? In this solo episode of Legendary Leaders, Cathleen O'Sullivan shares what happened when she finally let go of performing leadership and started showing up as herself.   From moments of self-doubt to the awkward reality of what she calls being a “cow at work,” Cathleen opens up about the pressures we put on ourselves to look like we’ve got it all together. She talks honestly about the impact it had on her well-being, her team, and her work and what changed when she chose presence over perfection. If you're feeling the weight of doing it all, or just wondering if there’s a more human way to lead, this episode is for you. Episode Timeline: 00:00 Introduction 04:59 Leadership thrives in authenticity; burnout taught me to lead from presence, not performance. 09:15 I wanted to lead as me with flaws, feelings, tired days and all.  13:06 You can’t lead well in survival mode 14:45 The power of saying “I’m not quite on today” 16:55 Rethink feedback and self-leadership Key Takeaways: Authenticity over perfection: Cathleen talks honestly about moving from trying to lead perfectly to simply showing up as herself. Letting go of the pressure to always have it together helped her build real trust with others even on the messy days Burnout changed everything: Working non-stop to meet impossible standards left Cathleen burnt out and disconnected. That low point pushed her to slow down, get honest with herself, and start leading with more care and clarity The SPACE method makes it practical: Cathleen shares a simple five-part tool to lead with more presence, not performance. Connect:   Find | Cathleen O’Sullivan  Business: https://cathleenosullivan.com/  Email: cmc@cathleenmerkelcoaching.com  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathleen-merkel/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/legendary_leaders_cathleenos/     FOLLOW LEGENDARY LEADERS ON APPLE, SPOTIFY OR WHEREVER YOU LISTEN TO YOUR PODCASTS

What does it really mean to lead with authenticity and move from “I” to “We” in today’s ever-evolving workplace? In this episode of Legendary Leaders, host Cathleen O’Sullivan is joined for a second time by Kyle McDowell, bestselling author of Begin With We, speaker, leadership coach, and former Fortune 10 executive. They talk about what’s changed since his book came out, how toxic cultures take hold, and why leading with principle matters more than ever. Episode Timeline:  1:38 Kyle’s mission: moving from “I” to “We” in leadership  03:13 Cathleen invites listeners to reflect on their own leadership style and authenticity. 08:38 Kyle opens up about his long-standing experience with imposter syndrome. 12:16 The fine line between confidence and cockiness 15:31 Kyle shares his anti “fake it till you make it” stance  18:26 The continued growth of Kyle’s book, Begin With We, and teases a second book. 23:03 The value of clear, jargon-free communication in leadership  26:24 How empathy and practical advice guide Kyle’s evolution as a leader. 39:09 The challenges and impact of growing polarisation and toxicity in workplaces. 01:06:46 Kyle names his struggle with obsessing over details and how he balances strengths and weaknesses.   Key Takeaways: Real Leadership Starts with Principles: Kyle and Cathleen talk about what it really means to lead with values. For Kyle, it’s about shifting from “I” to “we” and living out a set of clear, practical principles. Toxic Cultures Can’t Always Be Fixed: They unpack what toxicity can look like, from one bad boss to a whole system. Kyle shares why it’s important to know when you can create change and when it’s time to walk away.  Doubt Happens, lead anyway: Both Cathleen and Kyle open up about imposter syndrome and how it shows up, even years into their careers. Kyle explains how he uses self-doubt as a check-in rather than a barrier.    About Kyle McDowell: Former Fortune 10 Executive turned inspirational speaker, bestselling author and leadership coach Kyle McDowell is on a quest to create cultures of excellence and reignite leaders’ passion and purpose. With nearly three decades of experience leading tens of thousands of employees at some of America’s biggest firms, McDowell’s philosophy is rooted in his trademarked principles, The 10 WEs. While today’s workforce is plagued with uncertainty and apathy, his strategy is simple - Begin With WE. McDowell’s mission is clear: crush the deep-rooted dysfunctions so many organizations passively accept. During his incredibly successful run in corporate America, McDowell’s leadership legacy was born from delivering superior results, empowering leaders, and driving massive cultural transformations. His Wall Street Journal and USA Today bestseller, Begin With WE, delves into the root causes of business dysfunction, offering a remedy through The 10 WEs framework. Rather than outsourcing solutions or ignoring cultural challenges, McDowell elevates leaders and sparks massive change within organizations by adopting a mindset that prioritizes “WE” over “I,” “you,” or “me.” McDowell’s insights have earned him invitations to speak at prestigious business, educational, and nonprofit institutions, and his expertise has been featured in major national publications, including The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, and Inc. Magazine. Connect with Kyle: Instagram: www.instagram.com/kylemcdowellinc/ TikTok :www.tiktok.com/@kylemcdowellinc YoutTube: www.youtube.com/@kylemcdowellinc Facebook: www.facebook.com/KyleMcDowellInc X: x.com/KyleMcDowellInc LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/kylemcdowellinc Website: www.kylemcdowellinc.com Connect: 
  Find | Cathleen O’Sullivan  Business: https://cathleenosullivan.com/  Email: cmc@cathleenmerkelcoaching.com  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathleen-merkel/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/legendary_leaders_cathleenos/     FOLLOW LEGENDARY LEADERS ON APPLE, SPOTIFY OR WHEREVER YOU LISTEN TO YOUR PODCASTS.

Get ready for a thoughtful and down-to-earth conversation with our host, Cathleen O’Sullivan and guest is Michael Frantl, Global Lead for Culture, Engagement, and Performance Solutions at Novo Nordisk about what really shapes strong leadership and why culture matters more than ever. With a career that’s taken him across the US, UK, and Scandinavia, Michael shares his real-world experience of building workplace cultures that go beyond posters and buzzwords.   Together, they talk about leading with trust, creating space for belonging, and the small, everyday actions that bring values to life. Michael also reflects on the role of optimism, why control doesn’t build connection, and how to make culture feel genuine wherever you work. If you’re building a team, leading change, or just trying to show up more intentionally, this episode is for you.   Episode Timeline:  00:00 Introduction 04:36 Life since we last met: moves, parenthood, and big shifts 06:03 Taking the leap, moving to Denmark and starting fresh 10:50 Balancing positivity and reality in leadership 14:09 From rush to reflection: Building quiet moments Into busy days 19:48 Lessons from the family construction business 30:58 Listening to understand: what philosophy taught me about dialogue 39:09 Building workplaces that support people and results 52:06 The power of focus and consistency in culture work 01:03:26 Practical steps for organizations tobBring values to life Key Takeaways: Culture is about what you do every day: Michael and Cathleen stress that company culture isn’t just about posters or slogans. It’s about how people act and interact every day.    Positivity Matters, but keep it real: Michael talks about finding joy in small moments and connecting with others, but also warns against ignoring challenges.  Leading with intention and space: Move away from micromanaging to truly supporting people. Listening, clear communication, and giving teams room to grow are key.  About Michal Frantl: Michael is a Global Culture, Engagement, & Performance Solutions Lead at Novo Nordisk, based in Copenhagen Denmark. He is an experienced people and culture professional with a focus on culture building and measurement, leadership development/coaching, and employee engagement who has worked across international offices both in house and as an external consultant.   Originally from Wisconsin in the US, he has lived in the US, UK, Sweden, Italy, and Denmark and has a Masters degree in Organizational Behaviour from Birkbeck, University of London. Connect with Michael: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelfrantl/   Connect: 
  Find | Cathleen O’Sullivan  Business: https://cathleenosullivan.com/  Email: cmc@cathleenmerkelcoaching.com  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathleen-merkel/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/legendary_leaders_cathleenos/     FOLLOW LEGENDARY LEADERS ON APPLE, SPOTIFY OR WHEREVER YOU LISTEN TO YOUR PODCASTS.

Are you constantly busy? In this solo episode of Legendary Leaders, Cathleen O’Sullivan explores a powerful but often overlooked leadership principle: the importance of creating space. Drawing from her experience coaching leaders worldwide, Cathleen unpacks how stepping away from constant busyness and perfectionism can unlock greater clarity, impact, and presence. She introduces her signature SPACE method, offering practical ways to build in reflection, set boundaries, and lead with intention. A must-listen for anyone looking to lead with more focus, energy, and purpose, at work or at home.   Episode Timeline:    00:00 Introduction   04:13 The Book that changed my view on leadership   07:31 Introducing the SPACE Method: Leading with clarity and confidence   10:46 Responding vs. Reacting: The impact of inner space   15:14 The cost of carrying It all: Leadership and life load   18:43 What your arrival says about your leadership style   22:31 Rediscovering your light: What are your values and vision?   25:50 Where do you need more space?   Key Takeaways:   Cathleen explains that leadership isn’t about doing more, but about creating space to pause and think clearly. She points out how being constantly busy, especially for women leaders, leads to burnout and stresses the need to set boundaries. The SPACE Method: Cathleen’s method helps leaders stop, reflect, address limiting beliefs, and take clear steps to lead with confidence and ease. Connect: 
  Find | Cathleen O’Sullivan  Business: https://cathleenosullivan.com/  Email: cmc@cathleenmerkelcoaching.com  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathleen-merkel/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/legendary_leaders_cathleenos/     FOLLOW LEGENDARY LEADERS ON APPLE, SPOTIFY OR WHEREVER YOU LISTEN TO YOUR PODCASTS.  

What if your biggest career breakthrough came from breaking your own rules about what “success” is supposed to look like? On this episode of Legendary Leaders, Cathleen O’Sullivan sits down with serial entrepreneur Joe Zentmyer for an honest, wide-ranging exploration of pivots, reinvention, and leading with genuine passion.   With over two decades of experience spanning Fortune 500 sales, food manufacturing, rock climbing gyms, and now a thriving aquarium supply business, Joe’s unconventional story is living proof that authentic curiosity and adaptability trump following “the script.” If you’ve ever held yourself back from a new opportunity because it didn’t fit the usual definition of success, this episode is for you.   Cathleen and Joe unpack the mindset shifts, resilience, and hard-won lessons that come with building (and sometimes rebuilding) teams and businesses from scratch. From learning the art of self-awareness and dealing with rapid change, to rebuilding after a crisis and keeping the entrepreneurial spark alive, this conversation will inspire you to take bold steps even (or especially) when the path is unconventional.   Episode Timeline Highlights: 06:36 From corporate life to becoming a climbing entrepreneur 13:21 Entrepreneurial life - you need to embrace the unknown 16:55 Performance problems are often leadership issues, not just HR 25:18 Climbing gym staff protests 31:01 Leaders can lack perspective in the midst of a crisis 33:22 Overcoming work overload: Need to find balance 40:46 Rediscovering leadership passion, post-Covid lockdowns 46:26 Passion-driven marketing and staffing 54:26 Hiring challenges for small businesses 01:01:40 Entrepreneurs need to embrace long-term optimism   Key Takeaways: True success in leadership and business is not one-size-fits-all; embracing your own curiosity and passion is the best guide. Building great teams starts with self-awareness, clear expectations, and prioritising attitude over technical skills. Crisis reveals character: resilience, honest communication, and willingness to learn from setbacks will define your leadership. Entrepreneurship isn’t for everyone the risks and rewards are real. Understand your motivations, know your limits, and be willing to reflect and reset. Protect your passion by delegating, innovating, and making time for self-reflection—don’t let the business become all-consuming. ABOUT Joe Zentmyer: As a serial entrepreneur with more than 20 years of experience, Joe builds businesses by developing business managers along with systems that support those managers. He’s very proud of the many young professionals he has mentored during his career. Joe’s diverse business experience from food manufacturing to rock climbing gyms, gives him a unique perspective and ability to creatively assess every opportunity. He loves the process of creating a business and turning a concept into a profitable reality. Before launching Snaggletooth Goby, Joe c-ofounded First Ascent, a Chicago-based climbing and fitness chain. From 2013 to 2022, his partners, investors, and himself grew the business to seven locations in multiple markets. Each location was 20,000 to 50,000 square feet in size. They achieved this rapid growth by partnering with lenders, landlords and key vendors to identify and develop only the best locations.   Connect with Joe: Website: snaggletoothgoby.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joe-zentmyer/  Connect: 
  Find | Cathleen O’Sullivan  Business: https://cathleenosullivan.com/  Email: cmc@cathleenmerkelcoaching.com  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathleen-merkel/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/legendary_leaders_cathleenos/     FOLLOW LEGENDARY LEADERS ON APPLE, SPOTIFY OR WHEREVER YOU LISTEN TO YOUR PODCASTS.  

What if the working world wasn’t designed for you, and following the rules held you back from the leadership and life you actually want? In this episode of Legendary Leaders, Cathleen welcomes Nyree Ambarchian, co-founder of purpose-led communications agency Jack & Grace, for a bold and honest conversation about ditching outdated workplace norms and rewriting the “rules” of work.   Nyree shares her journey from diligently following the rules to challenging and rewriting them, both in her own career and in building her business.    This episode is a must-listen for anyone ready to question inherited workplace “rules,” embrace authentic leadership, and create environments where people and planet can thrive.   Episode Timeline: 01:35 What might happen if we stopped following outdated workplace rules and started making work fit us instead? 07:56 Launching her purpose-led communications agency during the lockdowns leveled the playing field  10:44 Motherhood led Nyree to reevaluate workplace norms  13:29 Personal challenges with miscarriage and infertility 18:09 Support for miscarriage should never be a one-size-fits-all policy 25:02 Jack & Grace founded as an experiment to challenge industry norms 27:33 Why unlimited holidays didn't work at Jack & Grace 29:24 Salary transparency is a powerful tool for reducing inequality 37:20 All jobs at Jack & Grace are offered part-time as standard   49:50 Measuring success not just by profit, but also people and planet Key Takeaways:   Most workplace “rules” weren’t designed for the modern workforce and often exclude, rather than empower people. Open conversation about real-life challenges like miscarriage and menopause can transform organisational culture and support. Experiments in flexibility, salary transparency, and inclusive hiring aren’t just “nice” they drive retention, talent attraction, and genuine well-being. Measuring success by profit alone ignores the vital health of people and the planet - embrace the triple bottom line. ABOUT Nyree Ambarchian: Nyree Ambarchian is a Co-Founder of Jack & Grace, a purpose-driven communications agency. On a mission to use comms as a force for good, Jack & Grace is a B Corp and only works with organisations that value people, planet, and profit equally. Nyree has twenty years experience in communications, specialising in behaviour change campaigns, delivering work for the likes of Riverford, the Duke of Edinburgh's Awards, and Defra. Having obediently followed the ‘rules’ of work all her career, in 2018, Nyree became a mum. Finding herself no longer able to stick to ‘the rules’, the burn of failure hit hard. Until she realised the problem wasn’t her, it was the rules. That marked the start of her journey to rewrite the rules of work, so they work for more people. Connect with Nyree : LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/jackandgrace/  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jackgracecomms/ Website: https://www.jackandgrace.co.uk/   Connect: 
  Find | Cathleen O’Sullivan  Business: https://cathleenosullivan.com/  Email: cmc@cathleenmerkelcoaching.com  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathleen-merkel/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/legendary_leaders_cathleenos/     FOLLOW LEGENDARY LEADERS ON APPLE, SPOTIFY OR WHEREVER YOU LISTEN TO YOUR PODCASTS.

What if burnout wasn’t a personal failure, but a sign that something bigger at the system level needs to change? In this episode of Legendary Leaders, host Cathleen O’Sullivan sits down with Kelly Swingler, the renowned “burnoutologist” and founder of the Burnout Academy, to uncover the truth behind today’s burnout epidemic. With candour and compassion, Kelly challenges the norms that glorify stress and exhaustion, exploring why real burnout is so much more than long hours. It’s about broken systems, shame, and outdated definitions of success.   Together, Cathleen and Kelly dive into the emotional realities of burnout, breaking down stigma and sharing personal stories of their own experiences. You’ll discover why leaders are often the first to “burn the brightest and break first,” and how shifting our focus from individual fixes to systemic change is the real path to sustainable well-being at work. Filled with vulnerability, laughter, and bold truths, this episode offers both insight and a call-to-action: it’s time to stop treating burnout as a weakness and start building workplaces and lives where well-being isn’t just an afterthought. Episode Timeline: 03:27 Introducing Kelly Swinger, the "burnoutologist". 07:29 Burnout is the debilitating result of chronic stress 14:10 Leaders often misinterpret feeling overwhelmed or struggling as incompetence 19:47 Burnout is a global issue often caused by toxic workplaces 25:48 Living an unhealthy lifestyle can't be offset by minimal healthy activities 32:48 Many avoid discussing mental health as workplace stress rises 33:45 Burnout is often masked by other conditions due to stigma 56:27 Workplace freedom and creativity could reduce toxicity 01:07:35 Stressed leaders repeat outdated patterns 01:13:08 Leaders should focus on self-awareness and personal values over profits 01:20:20 Self-care routines can't cure burnout without genuine presence 01:24:49 Self-awareness and inner work are ongoing, challenging but rewarding. Key Takeaways:   Burnout is not just chronic stress or exhaustion, it’s falling off the edge of your stress scale into a place that affects your whole life. Leaders and organisations must move beyond surface-level “well-being” fixes and tackle the root causes of systemic burnout. You can’t “self-care” your way out of burnout, lasting transformation requires stopping, reflecting, and doing the deep inner work.   ABOUT Kelly Swingler Kelly is the Burnoutologist, empowering Leaders to Banish Burnout in the changing world of work for themselves and their people. She leads the world’s number one Burnout Academy, training in Burnout Awareness. Known for being a rebel and a rule-breaker, Kelly has been ripping up the rulebook since 2002 after realising that the way we are working isn't working, and how we are taught to define success is outdated. Today, Kelly educates leaders, Coaches HR and managers from companies around the world on how to recognise, prevent and recover from Burnout. Connect with Kelly: The Burnout Academy: https://www.kellyswingler.com/burnoutacademy Book: https://www.kellyswingler.com/fckburnout   Social Media Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kellyswingler/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamkellyswingler/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC9Z6iJPB4gYz1MZoUPOgdlQ Connect: 
  Find | Cathleen O’Sullivan  Business: https://cathleenosullivan.com/  Email: cmc@cathleenmerkelcoaching.com  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathleen-merkel/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/legendary_leaders_cathleenos/     FOLLOW LEGENDARY LEADERS ON APPLE, SPOTIFY OR WHEREVER YOU LISTEN TO YOUR PODCASTS.

What if your greatest legacy isn’t what you build, but who you build with along the way? In this episode of Legendary Leaders, your host, Cathleen O’Sullivan, invites you into a candid conversation with Nick Peel, a leader whose career spans some of the world’s most ambitious projects, from Arsenal Football Club to the cutting-edge NEOM "Line" project in Saudi Arabia. You’ll hear how Nick’s human-first approach to leadership has empowered teams to thrive under pressure, transcending titles and status in favour of authenticity, humility, and genuine impact. Together, they explore why self-awareness, openness to failure, and the courage to lead with empathy are at the heart of truly legendary leadership. Tune in to discover how embracing your humanity and building others up may just be the most powerful legacy you leave behind.   Episode Timeline:  00:00 Introduction 11:51 Embracing innovation and tackling ambitious projects 15:48 The importance of authenticity and being human in leadership 20:16 Learning from failure and the power of reflection 32:06 Building a strong, supportive family while leading global projects  38:09 Leading high-performing teams through empowerment and simplicity 44:22 The origins of NEOM’s The Line: bold ideas and collaboration 52:03 Leading diverse teams and unlocking innovation through trust 57:31 Supporting women’s leadership for future generations   Key Takeaways:  Nick shares stories of nurturing talent and pride in seeing former colleagues grow, highlighting the importance of building others up on your leadership journey. Nick discusses the value of showing up authentically, empowering diverse teams, and leading with humility, whether in the high-pressure corporate world or ambitious projects like NEOM’s "The Line".  Nick’s career, shaped more by "default than design," showcases how adaptability, curiosity, and learning steer personal and professional growth. He talks of the importance of reflection, being open to new ideas and leveraging lessons from both success and failure.   ABOUT Nick Peel Nick has over 30 years of senior commercial and operational leadership expertise under his belt with esteemed organisations like Arsenal FC, LandSec,  Battersea Power Station, McArthur Glen Designer Outlets, and Morrison Supermarkets. He has also held Non-Exec roles with a number of entities, including UCI World Cycling Championships, Streetwork charity, and Icons.com. His career spans retail, hospitality, property / real estate and sports, which he confesses is more by default than by design.    Nick is currently Director of Operational Readiness for THE LINE, the futuristic city under development at NEOM in Saudi Arabia. He specializes in building high performance teams, creating go to market strategies, building the new, and fixing the broken. He prides himself on a ‘ human first ‘ leadership style, and is motivated by change, learning, travel, and in particular his family and children.   Connect with Nicholas: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-peel-a5943a9?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app    Connect: 
  Find | Cathleen O’Sullivan  Business: cathleenmerkel.com   Email: cmc@cathleenmerkelcoaching.com  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathleen-merkel/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/legendary_leaders_cathleenos/     FOLLOW LEGENDARY LEADERS ON APPLE, SPOTIFY OR WHEREVER YOU LISTEN TO YOUR PODCASTS.  

Is leadership about going it alone, or could sharing the load lead to even greater success? In this episode of Legendary Leaders, host Cathleen O'Sullivan welcomes the dynamic duo Clare Freshwater-Turner and Annabelle Richards to explore how job sharing could be the key to enhanced leadership and personal fulfilment. Clare and Annabelle, senior managers in sustainable business at Lloyds Banking Group, have mastered the art of job sharing, proving that two heads can indeed be better than one. Join us to learn about the unique partnership they’ve built over nine years, sharing insights into how combining different strengths and perspectives leads to superior outcomes. Tune in for a conversation that challenges conventional leadership norms and offers a refreshing perspective on ambition and success.   Episode Timeline:  00:00 Introduction ​​08:41 Supporting each other and managing priorities 17:49 The benefits of two coaches for a team  24:10 How to play to each other's strengths 32:07 Why creating a work-life balance is so important  47:42 Communication practises for effective teamwork 56:39 Flexible working enhances productivity and satisfaction   Key Takeaways:  Clare and Annabelle highlight how their contrasting personalities and skills enhance decision-making and problem-solving. They emphasise that two heads can indeed be better than one, providing richer ideas and solutions, which in turn benefits the entire team and organisation. The conversation addresses common misconceptions about job sharing, such as it being more work for managers or only suitable for certain roles. Clare and Annabelle debunk these myths by sharing their experience of managing each other’s development and workload, easing the burden on their line manager.  On a personal level, job sharing has allowed Clare and Annabelle to maintain a healthy work-life balance. They can pursue personal interests and family commitments while still having fulfilling careers.     ABOUT Clare Freshwater-Turner & Annabelle Richards Annabelle and Clare are a jobshare and senior managers in Sustainable Business at Lloyds Banking Group, working in the Nature team. They have been with Lloyds Banking Group for many years, working in a wide variety of roles in the Finance and Sustainability functions. These included leading teams, culture change and developing manager training programs. They joined the Group Sustainable Business Team in 2022 supporting Dr. Rebecca Heaton in setting up the team. After they both completed the CISL course with a distinction, they transferred to the nature senior manager role. Within the Nature team, their primary focus is to integrate nature into decision-making and developing training to meet business unit requirements.     Connect with Annabelle & Clare: Website: https://thejobsharecoach.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thejobsharecoach/   Connect: 
  Find | Cathleen O’Sullivan  Business: cathleenmerkel.com   Email: cmc@cathleenmerkelcoaching.com  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathleen-merkel/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/legendary_leaders_cathleenos/     FOLLOW LEGENDARY LEADERS ON APPLE, SPOTIFY OR WHEREVER YOU LISTEN TO YOUR PODCASTS.  

Are you merely enduring tough times, or are you truly thriving through them? In this episode of Legendary Leaders, army veteran and leadership expert Rachel McGill joins Cathleen to explore the nuanced art of resilience. Rachel unveils the clear difference between merely bouncing back and proactively moving forward. She shares her journey, from breaking a world record to creating Resilient Leaders Elements, a framework designed to help leaders like you build genuine resilience. Discover why true resilience is not about muscling through challenges but about adapting, making better decisions under pressure, and balancing control with adaptability. Tune in for a conversation that will inspire you to transform challenges into opportunities and rethink the way you lead during challenging times.   Episode Timeline:  00:00 Introduction 05:40 How to best structure your day and maximise energy 12:17 Building and developing resilient leadership skill 20:26 Why inclusion is a fundamental need  34:04 Turning crisis into opportunity 41:10 Visualising desired outcomes helps build resilience 51:12 Foreseeing crises, staying informed and being prepared 01:08:51 Authentic leadership and emotional intelligence 01:15:32 True diversity requires different perspectives and experiences   Key Takeaways:  Rachel explains that resilience isn't about simply toughing it out through difficult times. She explains how having a bias for achievement and a positive intention can provide clarity and direction even during uncertainty. Cathleen and Rachel discuss the importance of creating a culture where everyone feels included and empowered to lead. This involves sharing control, encouraging openness, and fostering an environment of trust and accountability.  Rachel shares stories of experience in the army and in business, emphasising the need for leaders to be adaptable and aware of their environments. During times of crisis or change, the ability to reassess and invite diverse perspectives becomes crucial.    ABOUT Rachel McGill Having served as an army officer, Rachel McGill has 30 years’’ leadership development experience and specialises in the development of resilience in leaders and the tools they need to succeed. As co-founder of Resilient Leaders Elements with her colleague Dr Jeremy Mead, her ambition is to make world-class resilient leadership development available to all. Rachel has designed and facilitated hundreds of courses for thousands of people and leads on ensuring pragmatic approaches to leadership development.   Connect with Rachel McGill: Website: www.resilientleaderselements.com  X: www.twitter.com/leaderselements Facebook: www.facebook.com/resilientleaderselements Instagram: www.instagram.com/resilientleaderselements LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/resilient-leaders-elements   Connect: 
  Find | Cathleen O’Sullivan  Business: cathleenmerkel.com   Email: cmc@cathleenmerkelcoaching.com  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathleen-merkel/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/legendary_leaders_cathleenos/     FOLLOW LEGENDARY LEADERS ON APPLE, SPOTIFY OR WHEREVER YOU LISTEN TO YOUR PODCASTS.  

What if you stopped waiting for the right time and started living fully right now? In this episode of Legendary Leaders, Cathleen O'Sullivan welcomes the inspiring Keisha Hickson, a transformative thought leader and resilience advocate. Diagnosed with a rare incurable cancer multiple myeloma at a young age. Keisha's story isn't just about survival; it's about thriving and leaving a legacy on her own terms. She explores her experiences of overcoming fears and embracing authenticity daily, all while battling a rare incurable disease. Keisha also shares her insights on ‘daring to change’ and how to make bold changes and decisions. Tune in for a conversation that will challenge you to start living now and inspire you to create your own legendary legacy, one step at a time.   Episode Timeline:  00:00 Introduction 08:22 Keisha's life-changing cancer diagnosis 18:00 Normalising diverse paths to impact by addressing struggles 26:19 How to support employees with invisible disabilities 38:08 Discovering your "Why" is crucial in defining your legacy 50:57 Celebrate milestones, embrace resilience, and pursue true passions 57:57 Being a proactive advocate for healthcare   Key Takeaways:  Keisha emphasises the importance of determination, action, resiliency, and execution through her concept of "Dare to Change." She explains how she moved from a place of complacency to making bold changes and decisions. Keisha shares the challenges of living with an invisible disability, such as her ongoing battle with multiple myeloma. She explains how she manages her condition while maintaining her daily activities and endeavours. Cathleen and Keish talk about leaving a legacy that is not defined solely by financial success but rather by the impact on our community, loved ones, and personal fulfilment.     ABOUT Keisha Hickson   Keisha Hickson is a professional speaker, transformative thought leader, and passionate advocate for resilience, transformation, and women’s empowerment. Her personal journey, marked by a diagnosis of multiple myeloma and a challenging prognosis, has fueled her pursuit of a limitless legacy. This concept, which she passionately advocates, is about living life on your own terms, creating a narrative that leaves a lasting and meaningful impact beyond conventional boundaries.   Keisha brings 25 years of experience in the financial industry to the table, including roles up to Vice President & Senior Branch Manager in Wealth Management. She has successfully owned and operated multiple businesses, demonstrating her diverse interests and business savvy. Her ventures include a children’s salon, a wellness brand, and a luxury gifting business, each flourishing under her leadership with collective revenues in the seven-figure range.    Connect with Keisha Hickson: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thereal_keishahickson/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/keisha-hickson/ Email: hello@keishahickson.com   Connect: 
  Find | Cathleen O’Sullivan  Business: cathleenmerkel.com   Email: cmc@cathleenmerkelcoaching.com  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathleen-merkel/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/legendary_leaders_cathleenos/     FOLLOW LEGENDARY LEADERS ON APPLE, SPOTIFY OR WHEREVER YOU LISTEN TO YOUR PODCASTS.  

Are you still chasing the wrong kind of success? In this episode of Legendary Leaders, Nancy Ho joins host Cathleen O'Sullivan to discuss the hidden struggles of high-performing professionals and the paradox of success. Nancy shares how defining success externally can lead to a void of stress and unfulfillment. She talks about turning pain into gain, redefining what you truly want, and the importance of being authentic rather than conforming to societal pressures. Discover how your thoughts shape your reality and the power of self-reflection in transforming your life. Tune in for a conversation that invites you to redefine success on your own terms and move towards a life filled with genuine satisfaction and freedom.   Episode Timeline:  00:00 Introduction 08:40 Choosing what you want over what you need 17:22 The difference between authentic self-care and social pressure 27:37 Addressing your needs genuinely and fostering long-term relationships 36:32 Gradually changing bad habits to good ones with ongoing support and strategy adjustments 44:28 Success comes from the inside so focus on inner fulfilment  50:05 Living in the past and having a fear of judgment  01:01:01 Wake up calls from life   Key Takeaways:  Nancy emphasises the importance of self-reflection to understand your own habits and tendencies. Being aware of the pain points and reflecting on them helps to make necessary changes.  Nancy explains that recognising the authentic pain (what one truly wishes to avoid) and the real gain (the genuine pleasure and outcome desired) can lead to more motivated and effective action. Cathleen and Nancy discuss how true motivation and contentment come from internal desires rather than external validation. Nancy highlights the importance of doing things for yourself rather than seeking approval from others.    ABOUT Nancy Ho   Introducing Nancy Ho, a distinguished Life Strategist, Clarity Messenger, and state-of-mind specialist with over 26 years of experience guiding individuals toward holistic success. Throughout her illustrious career, Nancy has empowered over 10,000 clients, including C-Suite executives, mid-level managers, and business owners, to navigate the intricate balance between professional achievement and personal fulfillment. As an internationally-recognized thought leader on "The Professional Paradox," Nancy brings a unique perspective to the podcasting world. With a focus on helping high-performing professionals transcend the silent weight of success, Nancy's insights offer valuable guidance for listeners seeking harmony in their professional and personal lives. Nancy's expertise lies in addressing the disconnect between external success and inner fulfillment. Her comprehensive approach includes personalized executive coaching, strategic planning, and confidential support tailored to the unique needs of each client.   Connect with Nancy Ho: Website: https://www.nancyho.net/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nancy-ho-exec-coach/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lifecoachnancyho/   Connect: 
  Find | Cathleen O’Sullivan  Business: cathleenmerkel.com   Email: cmc@cathleenmerkelcoaching.com  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathleen-merkel/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/legendary_leaders_cathleenos/     FOLLOW LEGENDARY LEADERS ON APPLE, SPOTIFY OR WHEREVER YOU LISTEN TO YOUR PODCASTS.  

Are you living to work, or working to live? In this episode of Legendary Leaders, Dr. Rana Al-Falaki joins host Cathleen O'Sullivan to share her incredible journey from being a successful but stressed professional to finding true joy and authenticity. She opens up about overcoming trauma, breaking through unhealthy patterns, and discovering genuine self-love - all while building a thriving career helping others find balance and fulfilment. Dr. Al-Falaki explains the critical difference between "being" versus "doing". She reveals how understanding your unique stress response can transform your resilience, and offers you strategies for creating sustainable success without burnout. Tune for a conversation that will help you shift from external validation to internal peace while still performing at your highest level.   Episode Timeline:  00:00 Introduction 11:19 Accessing your intuition when you're truly busy 16:21 Overcoming fears with holographic thinking 25:14 The benefits of living with authenticity 35:23 Defining human energy: what does it mean? 46:19 Living with a false mask and learning how to trust 51:32 Dr. Al-Falaki's life-altering diagnosis transformational journey 01:13:10 Empowerment through self-reflection 01:20:07 Navigating menopause and personal growth   Key Takeaways:  Dr. Al-Falaki emphasises the importance of creating silence in your life to access intuition. During busy and hectic times, prioritising silence helps in making more conscious and effective decisions.  Both Cathleen and Dr. Al-Falaki discuss how the definition of success evolves over time. In their experiences, it shifted from external validations and material achievements to internal peace, joy, and self-love.  The conversation touches on how trust and empathy are foundational for effective leadership and creating a high-performing team. Vulnerability is about expressing true needs and emotions, which fosters a healthy, open, and supportive work environment.   ABOUT Dr. Rana Al-Falaki Dr Rana Al-Falaki openly talks about her past life struggles and traumas and is passionate about making an impact on every person she meets.  She claims this as her purpose and gives meaning to all events in her life. She describes her first 40 years of life as OUTWARDLY SUCCESSFUL BUT INWARDLY STRESSFUL. Having perfected how to reach a state of flow where everything happens - laser focus, high productivity, financial wealth, powerful leadership, loving relationships, high energy, motivation, feeling at ease, in peace, joyful and present - she  works with professionals and teams to do the same, be that through coaching, speaking or training. Connect with Dr. Al-Falaki: Website: https://nail-it.uk/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dr-rana/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/rana.alfalaki Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nailit_drrana   Connect: 
  Find | Cathleen O’Sullivan  Business: cathleenmerkel.com   Email: cmc@cathleenmerkelcoaching.com  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathleen-merkel/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/legendary_leaders_cathleenos/     FOLLOW LEGENDARY LEADERS ON APPLE, SPOTIFY OR WHEREVER YOU LISTEN TO YOUR PODCASTS.  

Are you ready to transform your approach to customer success and discover how aligning your leadership with customer needs can drive sustainable growth? In this captivating conversation on Legendary Leaders, Cathleen O'Sullivan sits down with Thomas Voigt, founder of TV Consulting and the Customer Success Academy. Thomas shares his remarkable journey from corporate leadership to entrepreneurship. Tune in for an episode filled with inspirational insights and practical strategies for driving success and growth.   Episode Timeline:  07:50 Struggled with solopreneurship, returned to employment at GWI for five years. 13:50 Learning from discomfort enhances leadership and personal growth. 16:15 I questioned what truly sparked joy beyond societal expectations of success. 27:37 Career ambitions thwarted by poor job market; led to self-reflection and acceptance. 33:55 Embraced entrepreneurship for freedom, launched TV consulting and Customer Success Academy. 48:58 Practicing daily routines like breathing exercises helps manage stress and maintain wellness. 53:28 Leverage fear and joy to drive ambition on LinkedIn by consistently engaging and adding value, fueled by a love for routine and exploration. 56:03 Embrace life's challenges, prioritise values over achievements. 01:10:23 Outsourcing customer success can work if teams are properly onboarded.  01:11:34 AI enhances customer success by streamlining admin tasks and enabling efficient outsourcing, with AI Copilots improving work processes. Key Takeaways:    The power of understanding and accepting your inner critic (whom Thomas named "TED") rather than trying to silence it completely How implementing a human-first approach to customer success can transform business relationships and drive sustainable growth Practical insights on integrating AI and technology in customer success while maintaining the human element   ABOUT Thomas Voigt. Hey there, I am Thomas! I'm passionate about helping scale up businesses and unravel the mysteries of creating the perfect product/market fit. My adventure kicked off in advertising in Germany, where I honed my skills and guided media companies and advertisers in decoding consumer insights. I helped build new TV channels targeting high-value viewers, generating 8-digit revenue in their first years. In 2011, I moved to London to help Discovery Inc. understand its global audiences, set up intelligence tools, and build its digital businesses. After this, I took a sharp turn and dove into growing revenue for scale-up companies, scoring 140% net retention and building Customer Success teams that generated 8 digits in annual recurring revenue. Fast-forward to today, I'm a revenue leader and consultant, steering companies into their customers' loving arms and fine-tuning their revenue engines for sustainable growth.   Connect with Thomas: Website: www.tvconsulting.net   Social Media Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/thomas-voigt/   Connect: 
  Find | Cathleen O’Sullivan  Business: cathleenmerkel.com   Email: cmc@cathleenmerkelcoaching.com  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathleen-merkel/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/legendary_leaders_cathleenos/     FOLLOW LEGENDARY LEADERS ON APPLE, SPOTIFY OR WHEREVER YOU LISTEN TO YOUR PODCASTS.  

Have you ever wondered what it takes to lead effectively in an uncertain, ever-changing world? Your host Cathleen O'Sullivan sits down with Graham Wilson, a distinguished leadership expert and author of Wabi Zugi: The Art of Resilience for Everyday Warriors. Together they uncover the essential strategies and ideas that will help you thrive as a leader in complex environments. Learn why embracing uncertainty and fostering a culture of experimentation is vital for modern leadership. Let's explore how moving beyond traditional management can empower your teams and spur innovation. We'll be rethinking performance management to create a more empowered, innovative workplace. As you listen, consider reflecting on your own leadership practices. Are they helping your team to adapt and thrive, or are they holding them back? Tune in and get ready to transform your approach to leadership!    Episode Timeline:  07:22 Authentic and context-driven leadership skills 18:03 Challenging traditional education norms 22:28 Military Training vs. Corporate Standards 28:40 How values guide behaviours 40:06 Success doesn't require a degree, it requires work 43:25 Dedating research-based leadership in an ever-changing world 59:06 Focus on simplifying work by guiding essential skills and daily actions 01:11:57 Why authenticity and individuality drive success 01:24:22 Empowering and motivating teams Key Takeaways:  Embracing Uncertainty in Leadership: Graham emphasises the importance of leading without having all the answers. Embracing uncertainty and fostering a culture of experimentation is essential for leaders navigating today's unpredictable environments.  Moving Beyond Traditional Management: Traditional micromanagement and rigid structures stifle innovation. Graham explains that leaders need to empower their teams by focusing on inclusivity and collaboration rather than controlling every detail.  Rethinking Performance Management: Graham highlights that many organisations are over-managed and under-led, and he advocates for focusing on what truly adds value to the customer and the business.   ABOUT Graham Wilson  Driven by the conviction that today’s turbulent business landscape demands extraordinary leadership, Graham Wilson crafts bespoke programs that empower leaders to achieve unparalleled results from both themselves and their teams and drive profound organizational change. At the heart of Graham's approach lies a deep understanding of the evolving nature of leadership in the modern world. By decoding the essence of effective leadership and championing a paradigm shift away from 'over-management', Graham equips leaders with the tools and mindset necessary to navigate complexity with confidence. Graham's passion for peak performance was cultivated during his military service and global corporate career and culminated in the founding of SuccessfactoryTM. Connect with Graham: Website: https://www.thesuccessfactory.co.uk/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SuccessfactoryTraining/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leadershipwizard Buy his book: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Wabisugi-resilience-everyday-warriors-Leadership/dp/0993139027   Connect: 
  Find | Cathleen O’Sullivan  Business: cathleenmerkel.com   Email: cmc@cathleenmerkelcoaching.com  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathleen-merkel/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/legendary_leaders_cathleenos/     FOLLOW LEGENDARY LEADERS ON APPLE, SPOTIFY OR WHEREVER YOU LISTEN TO YOUR PODCASTS.

Join us to discover how to build a fulfilling encore career with purpose and adaptability. Cathleen is joined by Dr. Michelle Prince, a global leadership coach, human capital consultant, and author of "Creating Your Encore Career." Dr. Prince and Cathleen uncover the unique challenges and opportunities of navigating family-owned businesses, challenging generational stereotypes, and redefining retirement. You'll hear about the emotional aspects of career transitions, the necessity of personal branding, and the dual responsibility between job seekers and employers in overcoming biases. Whether you're considering an encore career or looking to challenge biases in hiring practices, this episode is full of advice to help you create purpose and impact, regardless of age. So, tune in, and let's make your next chapter legendary!   Episode Timeline:  01:02 Why creating purpose beyond retirement is crucial. 09:29 Dr. Prince helps leaders excel and coaching encore careers. 23:06 How to challenge stereotypes and practice self-discovery. 27:21 What does a fulfilling encore career look like?  37:59 Emotional well-being after career transitions. 49:45 Exploring your identity, beliefs, opportunities, and open doors. 59:54 How can work boost emotional and physical health? 01:08:57 Curiosity and questioning foster lifelong learning. 01:17:55 Surround yourself with uplifting, influential people.   Key Takeaways:  Challenging Generational and Age-related Biases: Cathleen and Dr. Prince discuss biases related to age and career transitions, highlighting the importance of curiosity and open-mindedness. Demonstrating personal strengths, adaptability, and willingness to acquire new skills is important. Redefining Retirement and Exploring Encore Careers: With increased lifespans, there is a pressing need to rethink retirement. Dr. Michel Prince emphasises the significance of planning an encore career that balances purpose and income, encouraging activities such as mentoring, freelancing, and volunteer work for personal fulfillment. Embracing Continuous Learning and Adaptability: Dr. Prince highlights the role of curiosity in her career, particularly within human resources. Her journey to obtaining a doctorate, spurred by a desire for intellectual stimulation, reflects the non-linear nature of personal and professional growth.    ABOUT Dr. Michelle Prince  Dr. Michelle Prince is a global leadership coach, HR tech advisor, human capital consultant and author. A certified leadership coach since 2006 with a doctorate in management and organizational leadership, she helps professionals and organizations achieve transformational growth. Michelle has over 30 years of corporate HR experience and now runs her consulting firm, MPrince Consulting LLC. An advocate for sustainability and empowering people to thrive, she wrote the book Creating Your Encore Career in 2024 to inspire others to craft their own fulfilling Encore Careers.    Connect with Dr. Prince: Website: https://www.linkedin.com/company/mprince-consulting  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelle-prince-dm  Buy her book: https://www.amazon.com/Creating-Your-Encore-Career-Prosperity/dp/1950336778    Connect: 
  Find | Cathleen O’Sullivan  Business: cathleenmerkel.com   Email: cmc@cathleenmerkelcoaching.com  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathleen-merkel/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/legendary_leaders_cathleenos/     FOLLOW LEGENDARY LEADERS ON APPLE, SPOTIFY OR WHEREVER YOU LISTEN TO YOUR PODCASTS.

Gain insights on how to be a mentally strong leader with your host Cathleen and her guest Scott Mautz. Scott is a former Procter & Gamble executive and renowned author, to explore the profound concepts of mental strength and resilience in leadership. Join them as they dissect the tools and strategies outlined in Mautz's latest book The Mentally Strong Leader, offering practical advice on overcoming self-doubt, managing negative emotions, and fostering a culture of authentic leadership. From the significance of self-assessment to the necessity of vulnerability, every minute is packed with actionable insights that can transform your approach to leading with mental prowess. Discover how mentally strong leaders can inspire confidence, drive organisational success, and leave an indelible positive impact on the world around them.   Episode Timeline:  05:32 Balancing authenticity and corporate expectations is challenging. 12:08 Chasing approval distorts identity and fulfillment. 20:38 Great leaders prioritise others over themselves. 26:58 Mental strength involves six key skills: fortitude, confidence, boldness, decision-making, goal focus, and positive messaging. 29:34 Self-regulation is crucial for resilience and confidence. 34:07 Quiz assesses mental strength through honesty. 42:27 Habits bolster confidence and resilience in vulnerability. 48:19 Use the "redirect rhythm" tool to manage emotions during setbacks and maintain effective messaging. 52:42 Mentally strong leadership drives organizational success. 55:58 Maintain supportive habits when confidence weakens.   Key Takeaways: Self-Regulation Is Key: Scott Mautz emphasises that mental strength in leadership hinges on the ability to self-regulate emotions, thoughts, and behaviours, particularly in challenging situations.   Tool for Resilience: Mautz introduces "the 4 lenses of Adversity in Resilience," which includes the "perspective lens" tool, encouraging leaders to broaden their perspective to better understand and meet their resilience needs.   Authenticity Over Approval: Mautz advises leaders to "chase authenticity, not approval," stressing that true mental strength involves being genuine and focusing on personal growth rather than seeking external validation.     ABOUT Scott Mautz Scott is the author of The Mentally Strong Leader and the founder and CEO of Profound Performance™, a keynote, training, and coaching company. Mautz is a former Procter & Gamble executive who successfully ran four of the company’s largest multi-billion dollar businesses, he is also the multi award-winning author of Leading from the Middle, Find the Fire, and Make It Matter. Mautz has been named a “CEO Thought-leader” by The Chief Executives Guild and a "Top 50 Leadership Innovator" by Inc.com, He is faculty on reserve at Indiana University’s Kelley School of Business for Executive Education and is a top instructor at LinkedIn Learning.    Connect with Scott: Website: www.scottmautz.com.   Social Media Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/scottmautz X: https://x.com/scott_mautz Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ScottMautzPP/ YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCESjWJrnWegel9lAlhXDS3A   Connect: 
  Find | Cathleen O’Sullivan  Business: cathleenmerkel.com   Email: cmc@cathleenmerkelcoaching.com  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathleen-merkel/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/legendary_leaders_cathleenos/     FOLLOW LEGENDARY LEADERS ON APPLE, SPOTIFY OR WHEREVER YOU LISTEN TO YOUR PODCASTS.

How important is workplace well-being to you? Kelly Mackin, co-founder of the Motives Met platform and author of "Work Life Well Lived," joins Cathleen to talk about human-centred work environments. Kelly shares her understanding of unconscious commitments and the critical need to align our work motives with personal well-being. Drawing from her own challenges in toxic work environments and inspired by her mother's experiences as a pioneering female executive, Kelly emphasises that well-being is a right, not a privilege. Join us as we uncover the "No BS Solution" to workplace well-being, discuss the importance of psychological safety and emotional health, and learn how to design meaningful and human-centred work environments. Don't miss it!  Episode Timeline:  07:20 Only 16% of people are thriving at work, let's change that. 15:27 Reflecting on ambition, needs, success and the burnout cycle. 23:47 Create action plans by considering: goals, support, mindset, boundaries and growth. 30:10 Equip leaders with questions to boost trust and foster safety. 40:06 5-step pathway to thriving in a people-first culture. 54:39 Unconscious commitments often undermine work-life harmony. 01:04:14 Witnessing my mom's work journey taught me the highs and lows of work. 01:13:14 Balancing work, quality time, and freedom.   Key Takeaways:  Kelly discusses the concept of unconscious commitments, highlighting how individuals consciously striving for work-life balance, might unknowingly overcommit to work to prove their worth.  Kelly and Cathleen emphasise that well-being is a right, not a privilege. Kelly shares her personal journey from experiencing burnout in a toxic work environment to prioritising her well-being through meditation and cognitive coaching.  Kelly introduces the "5 Step Motives Met Pathway" to help leaders understand, evaluate, and meet these needs in the workplace by fostering a culture of psychological safety.   ABOUT Kelly Mackin  Kelly Mackin is the author of Work Life Well-Lived: The Motives Met Pathway to No-B.S. Well-Being at Work and cofounder and CEO of the Motives Met Platform and Human Needs AssessmentTM which empowers people to create their best work life and workplace. Kelly’s journey from ill-being to well-being at work ignited her passion and dedication for helping people create health and happiness in their lives through a unique blend of skills. Her expertise spans quantitative research in human behavior to fostering psychological safety, from guiding individuals in mind management coaching to imparting the practice of mindfulness meditation both in and outside of work. As a researcher, she gains insights into significant parts of our lives like values, stress, and emotions to develop frameworks to better understand the world and ourselves to make positive change. Connect with Kelly : Website: https://www.motivesmet.com/   Social Media Links: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kelly-mackin-52793110/ Connect: 
  Find | Cathleen O’Sullivan  Business: cathleenmerkel.com   Email: cmc@cathleenmerkelcoaching.com  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathleen-merkel/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/legendary_leaders_cathleenos/     FOLLOW LEGENDARY LEADERS ON APPLE, SPOTIFY OR WHEREVER YOU LISTEN TO YOUR PODCASTS.