Beyond Instinct

The Beyond Instinct podcast delves into the world of innovation, business transformation, and industry advancements, bringing expert perspectives to the forefront. In this episode, Michael Russell is joined by Katharine Pons, from Executive Wisdom, for a thought-provoking conversation on conscious leadership. Together, they unpack what it really means to lead with awareness, purpose, and empathy in today’s fast-moving business landscape. From decision-making and culture to personal accountability and sustainable growth, they explore how conscious leadership can drive stronger teams, healthier organisations, and more meaningful impact.

Beyond Instinct Podcast: Reflecting, Learning, and Looking AheadIn this special episode of the Beyond Instinct podcast, host Michael Russell takes a step back to reflect on his journey since launching the show. Looking ahead, he explores the future of Beyond Instinct and what listeners can expect as the podcast continues to evolve. Plus, he shares his perspective as an SME business owner for 2026.

The Beyond Instinct podcast delves into the world of innovation, business transformation, and industry advancements, bringing expert perspectives to the forefront. In this episode of Beyond Instinct, Michael Russell sits down with Darcy Laceby, co-founder of Absolute Collagen. They explore Darcy’s journey as a founder, the challenges and rewards of working with family, and the rapid growth of Absolute Collagen and what it meant for her and the business.

The Beyond Instinct podcast delves into the world of innovation, business transformation, and industry advancements, bringing expert perspectives to the forefront. Transitioning from founder to business owner is rarely a straight path. In this episode, we explore the unique challenges, frustrations, and roadblocks that SME founders face when stepping back from the day-to-day. We dive into the emotional journey of letting go—understanding that your business isn’t a reflection of you, and learning that sometimes, even with the best intentions, letting go doesn’t go quite to plan. Through candid stories and real-life experiences, we uncover the lessons, the missteps, and the unexpected growth that comes from shifting your role in the business you built.Whether you’re a founder contemplating the next chapter or simply curious about the reality behind ownership transitions, this episode offers insight, empathy, and practical advice for navigating the leap from founder to owner.

The Beyond Instinct podcast delves into the world of innovation, business transformation, and industry advancements, bringing expert perspectives to the forefront. In this episode, Michael sits down with Russ Edgar from VDM to dive deep into the world of design. Together, they explore the creative process behind logos, effective branding, and the evolving role of design in shaping a company's identity. Whether you're a designer, business owner, or just curious about the power of visual storytelling, this conversation offers valuable insights and inspiration.

The Beyond Instinct podcast delves into the world of innovation, business transformation, and industry advancements, bringing expert perspectives to the forefront. In this episode, Michael is joined by Greg Sewell to explore how businesses can move beyond founder-led operations, focusing on building and developing teams and the challenges that come with it.

The Beyond Instinct podcast delves into the world of innovation, business transformation, and industry advancements, bringing expert perspectives to the forefront. In this episode, Michael is joined by Leigh Hall where they discuss how intuition and care for people shows up in small businesses.

The Beyond Instinct podcast delves into the world of innovation, business transformation, and industry advancements, bringing expert perspectives to the forefront. In this episode, Michael is joined by Chris Wilson from Health Tech Global for a deep dive into stress, wellbeing, and why traditional approaches to measuring them often fall short. Together, they explore how many organisations still treat wellbeing as a “one-size-fits-all” metric, and why it’s time for a shift.They discuss:The limitations of current wellbeing measurements and data useHow a multi-modality model can create a more layered, individualised approachThe critical role of health literacy in helping people understand and articulate their own stateWhy emotions and physiology are deeply interconnected, and how recognising this can transform workplace wellbeing strategiesThis is a must-listen for leaders and professionals looking to go beyond surface-level metrics and build healthier, more resilient organisations.

The Beyond Instinct podcast delves into the world of innovation, business transformation, and industry advancements, bringing expert perspectives to the forefront. In this episode Michael is joined by Jack from Cookie Cut Media, where they explore the fascinating tightrope walk between intuition and intentional action. Share compelling stories of moments when overriding our gut feelings led to surprising successes, and equally insightful tales of when ignoring that initial hunch veered us off course. Discover the delicate balance of trusting your instincts versus the power of considered choices.

The Beyond Instinct podcast delves into the world of innovation, business transformation, and industry advancements, bringing expert perspectives to the forefront.In this episode, Michael is joined by Motion's Erin Nicolaisen for a powerful conversation about what it means to go beyond instinct - and the stories we carry - to navigate life’s hurdles. Erin shares what it’s like being the first: the first to do things differently, the first to rise, the first to prove herself.They unpack how early experiences and internal narratives shape our instincts - like pushing through, overachieving, or carrying it all alone - and how those patterns either fuel us or hold us back. Erin reflects on the mindset shifts that come with growth, how to challenge your default reactions, and the importance of surrounding yourself with people who are equally driven - but also grounded.This is a raw, insightful look at ambition, identity, and the quiet work of changing how we move through the world. If you’ve ever felt like you’re carrying the pressure to be the one who does it all, this episode is for you.

The Beyond Instinct podcast delves into the world of innovation, business transformation, and industry advancements, bringing expert perspectives to the forefront.In this episode of the Beyond Instinct podcast, the tables are turned on Michael, as Orca Intelligence's (and previous guest) Tim Britt asks the questions. They dive deep into the often-uncomfortable but essential journey of pushing past your initial instincts and venturing beyond the familiar confines of your comfort zone in business. Tackling the constant internal struggle between what you want to do and what needs to be done for true growth and success.

The Beyond Instinct podcast delves into the world of innovation, business transformation, and industry advancements, bringing expert perspectives to the forefront.In this episode of Beyond Instinct, Michael is joined by Stefano Gonnelli to discuss the critical role relationships play in business success.

The Beyond Instinct podcast delves into the world of innovation, business transformation, and industry advancements, bringing expert perspectives to the forefront.In this episode of Beyond Instinct, we’re joined by Carla Crocombe for a powerful conversation about uncovering your true purpose — both as a person and as a business, exploring how who you are shapes what you create.

The Beyond Instinct podcast delves into the world of innovation, business transformation, and industry advancements, bringing expert perspectives to the forefront.In episode 5 Michael discusses mindset in business with Harsha Malaweera. They discuss and challenge the ingrained "next steps" mentality we often inherit, revealing how breaking free from that secure, linear path can unlock entrepreneurial potential.

The Beyond Instinct podcast delves into the world of innovation, business transformation, and industry advancements, bringing expert perspectives to the forefront.In episode 4 Michael talks all things HR with Pip Foulsham; discussing the many facets of HR as well as the importance of emotional intelligence within business.

The Beyond Instinct podcast delves into the world of innovation, business transformation, and industry advancements, bringing expert perspectives to the forefront.In episode 3 Michael talks all things strategy with Orca Intelligence's Tim Britt. In this podcast Tim discusses what strategy is to him, how he entered down the path of strategy; as well as how the mindset of Orca Vs Sharks translates in business.

The Beyond Instinct podcast delves into the world of innovation, business transformation, and industry advancements, bringing expert perspectives to the forefront.In episode 2 Michael talks all things marketing with Kirsty Goddard from VDM. Discussing what marketing is, her background in marketing and how marketing isn't just a logo.

The Beyond Instinct podcast delves into the world of innovation, business transformation, and industry advancements, bringing expert perspectives to the forefront.Episode 1 launches the Beyond Instinct podcast, introduces Michael Russell and gives some background insight into why start a podcast.