People Soup

One of Ross's favourite places to visit on holiday isn't a famous landmark...It's the local supermarket.Why?Because holidays have a wonderful way of awakening our curiosity.In this Quick Spoon, Ross explores the idea of beginner's mind - approaching ordinary places as if you're seeing them for the very first time—and why curiosity helps us become more present.Here's something to tryOn your next holiday, visit somewhere completely ordinary—a supermarket, a café or simply a street you've never walked before.Then explore it with extraordinary curiosity.Finally, ask yourself:Where else in my life could I benefit from adopting a beginner's mind?People Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following People Soup, leaving a rating or review, or sharing it with someone who might find it useful.Every recommendation helps more people discover practical, evidence-based conversations about work, leadership and being human.Watch this Quick Spoon on YouTubeRecover on purpose: the holiday matrix - People SoupDownload the holiday matrix hereHere's the People Soup Website.Visit Ross' Website.Connect with Ross on LinkedInPeople Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian lifeHe's now also on Bluesky

Have you ever arrived on holiday, only to find your mind is still back at work?In this Quick Spoon, Ross explores psychological detachment - one of the key ingredients of effective recovery. It's not just about leaving work physically; it's about leaving it mentally too.Ross shares one simple ritual to help you make the transition into your holiday with a little more intention.Here's something to tryBefore you finish work:Write down what's still outstanding.Leave yourself a note for your first day back.Identify your priorities.Remind yourself why your work matters.Then close the laptop and let your work have somewhere safe to stay while you're away.Question: What helps you switch off from work before a holiday?People Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following People Soup, leaving a rating or review, or sharing it with someone who might find it useful.Every recommendation helps more people discover practical, evidence-based conversations about work, leadership and being human.Recover on purpose: the holiday matrix - People SoupWatch the short on YoutubeDownload the holiday matrix hereHere's the People Soup Website.Visit Ross' Website.Connect with Ross on LinkedInPeople Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian lifeHe's now also on Bluesky

What if your next holiday wasn't simply time away from work — but an opportunity to reconnect with what matters?In this solo episode, Ross explores why recovery is much more than rest. Drawing on behavioural science, the Job Demands-Resources Model and research into leisure time recovery, he shares a fresh perspective on why holidays can help us rebuild one of our most important leadership capacities: our psychological flexibility.Ross introduces the holiday matrix—a simple coaching tool to help you recover with intention rather than drift through your break on autopilot.Whether you're travelling abroad, enjoying a staycation or simply taking a few days away from work, this episode offers practical ideas to help you return feeling more present, curious and connected.In this episode, Ross explores:Why leaders can become less psychologically flexible when they're under sustained pressure or exhaustedWhat the Job Demands-Resources Model tells us about recoveryThe four key ingredients of leisure time recovery:Psychological detachmentRelaxationMasteryControlWhy curiosity might be one of the first signs that you're genuinely switching offHow to use the Holiday Matrix to recover on purposeSimple daily practices to help you reconnect with what mattersThree invitations for your next holiday✔ Create a simple ritual that marks the beginning of your break.✔ Take one photograph each day of something you only noticed because you slowed down.✔ Choose a song that becomes the soundtrack to your holiday—and let it remind you how you want to show up during this precious time.Reflection questionWhich side of the Matrix deserves more of your attention and energy on this holiday?Resources mentionedJob Demands-Resources ModelLeisure Time Recovery research (including the work of Sabine Sonnentag and colleagues)Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT)The McIntosh ACT Leadership FrameworkPeople Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following People Soup, leaving a rating or review, or sharing it with someone who might find it useful.Every recommendation helps more people discover practical, evidence-based conversations about work, leadership and being human.Download the holiday matrix hereHere's the People Soup Website.Visit Ross' Website.Connect with Ross on LinkedInPeople Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian lifeHe's now also on Bluesky

Most of us have a way of managing our time.A diary.A calendar.A to-do list.But how often do we give the same attention to our energy?In this Quick Spoon, chartered coaching psychologist Dr Rose Aghdami shares a simple but powerful idea: if we think of energy as a limited resource, perhaps it deserves managing just as carefully as our time.This Quick Spoon is taken from my full conversation with Dr Rose Aghdami, author of How to FUEL Your Resilience.If you'd like to hear the complete conversation, you'll find it wherever you listen to People Soup.People Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following People Soup, leaving a rating or review, or sharing it with someone who might find it useful.Every recommendation helps more people discover practical, evidence-based conversations about work, leadership and being human.Resilience starts with staying human – People Soup – Apple PodcastsConnect with Rose on LinkedinThe Book — Dr Rose AghdamiRose's websiteHere's the People Soup Website.Visit Ross' Website.Connect with Ross on LinkedInPeople Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian lifeHe's now also on Bluesky

Sometimes the signs that we're running low on resilience aren't dramatic.We're still turning up.Still getting through the to-do list.Still appearing to cope.But underneath, something feels different.In this Quick Spoon, chartered coaching psychologist Dr Rose Aghdami shares some of the subtle warning signs that we might be running on empty, and invites us to ask a simple but powerful question:Am I thriving, or am I simply surviving?This Quick Spoon is taken from my full conversation with Dr Rose Aghdami, author of How to FUEL Your Resilience.If you'd like to hear the complete conversation, you'll find it wherever you listen to People Soup.People Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following People Soup, leaving a rating or review, or sharing it with someone who might find it useful.Every recommendation helps more people discover practical, evidence-based conversations about work, leadership and being human.Resilience starts with staying human – People Soup – Apple PodcastsConnect with Rose on LinkedinThe Book — Dr Rose AghdamiRose's websiteHere's the People Soup Website.Visit Ross' Website.Connect with Ross on LinkedInPeople Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian lifeHe's now also on Bluesky

Sometimes the questions that shape our careers don't come from research papers or textbooks.They come from the people we meet.In this Quick Spoon, chartered coaching psychologist Dr Rose Aghdami shares the client conversation that transformed the direction of her work.After hearing a client ask, "So you mean work can make you ill?", Rose found herself asking another question:If work can contribute to poor mental health, could it also become a place where people thrive?This Quick Spoon is taken from my full conversation with Dr Rose Aghdami, author of How to FUEL Your Resilience.If you'd like to hear the complete conversation, you'll find it wherever you listen to People Soup.People Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following People Soup, leaving a rating or review, or sharing it with someone who might find it useful.Every recommendation helps more people discover practical, evidence-based conversations about work, leadership and being human.Resilience starts with staying human – People Soup – Apple PodcastsConnect with Rose on LinkedinThe Book — Dr Rose AghdamiRose's websiteHere's the People Soup Website.Visit Ross' Website.Connect with Ross on LinkedInPeople Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian lifeHe's now also on Bluesky

What does resilience really mean?For many of us, the word has become associated with pushing through, staying strong and simply carrying on, whatever life throws at us.In this Quick Spoon, chartered coaching psychologist Dr Rose Aghdami offers a different perspective.Rather than seeing resilience as suppressing difficult emotions, Rose suggests that resilience starts with acknowledging them. Feeling worried, overwhelmed or vulnerable doesn't mean you've failed—it means you're human.This Quick Spoon is taken from my full conversation with Dr Rose Aghdami, author of How to FUEL Your Resilience.If you'd like to hear the complete conversation, you'll find it wherever you listen to People Soup.People Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following People Soup, leaving a rating or review, or sharing it with someone who might find it useful.Every recommendation helps more people discover practical, evidence-based conversations about work, leadership and being human.Resilience starts with staying human – People Soup – Apple PodcastsConnect with Rose on LinkedinThe Book — Dr Rose AghdamiRose's websiteHere's the People Soup Website.Visit Ross' Website.Connect with Ross on LinkedInPeople Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian lifeHe's now also on Bluesky

What does resilience really mean?For many people, the word has become associated with simply pushing through, coping no matter what, or carrying on regardless. But what if resilience isn't about becoming tougher at all?In this episode I'm joined by chartered coaching psychologist Dr Rose Aghdami, author of How to FUEL Your Resilience.Together we explore why resilience has developed such a mixed reputation at work, how one conversation with a client changed the direction of Rose's career, and why staying human might be the most resilient thing we can do.Rose also introduces her practical 'FUEL' model and shares simple ways to recognise when we're running on empty, protect our energy, and respond more intentionally when work and life become challenging.In this episode we explore:Why resilience sometimes gets a bad reputationThe client conversation that changed Rose's careerWhy resilience starts with staying humanThe FUEL model for building resilienceRecognising the signs you're running on emptyWhy managing your energy matters just as much as managing your timePractical ideas you can try this weekAbout RoseDr Rose Aghdami is a chartered coaching psychologist, speaker and author specialising in resilience, wellbeing and professional performance. She works with individuals and organisations to help people thrive in demanding environments.People Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following People Soup, leaving a rating or review, or sharing it with someone who might find it useful.Every recommendation helps more people discover practical, evidence-based conversations about work, leadership and being human.Connect with Rose on LinkedinThe Book — Dr Rose AghdamiRose's websiteHere's the People Soup Website.Visit Ross' Website.Connect with Ross on LinkedInPeople Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian lifeHe's now also on Bluesky

We often assume that if we're not taking action, the problem must be motivation.But what if there's more to it than that?In this Quick Spoon, Ross reflects on a practical framework shared by organisational psychologist Dr Joe Gray, based on the work of Professor Sharon Parker.Before judging ourselves for not following through, Joe suggests asking three simple questions:Can I do it?Do I have a reason to do it?Do I have the energy to do it?Together, they offer a more compassionate and practical way of understanding what's getting in the way.Something to Reflect OnThink about one thing you've been putting off.Then ask yourself:Can I do it?Do I have a reason to do it?Do I have the energy to do it?Which answer reveals the real barrier?Listen to the Full EpisodePowering Workplace Proactivity with Dr Joanne Gray

What does it really mean to be proactive?In this Quick Spoon, Ross reflects on a key insight from his conversation with business psychologist and author, Dr Joanne Gray.Many organisations say they want proactive employees, but we often confuse proactivity with simply being helpful or saying yes to every request.Jo explains that real proactivity is different. It's about spotting opportunities to improve things, taking initiative, and creating positive change before someone asks you to.Ross explores the difference between reacting to what's already happening and making space to shape what happens next.Something to Reflect OnAm I spending most of my time responding to what's already happening......or am I creating even a small amount of change for the future?Listen to the Full EpisodePowering Workplace Proactivity with Dr Joanne GrayPeople Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following People Soup, leaving a rating or review, or sharing it with someone who might find it useful.Every recommendation helps more people discover practical, evidence-based conversations about work, leadership and being human.Full episode - Powering workplace proactivity with Dr Joe Gray – on Apple PodcastsFind Joe on InstagramThe Progress Lab | We’re on a mission to make workplaces work better, helping people & organisations unleash their potential.Connect with Joe on LinkedInJoe's website - Powering ProactivityJoe's Book - Powering Workplace ProactivityHere's the People Soup Website.Visit Ross' Website.Connect with Ross on LinkedInPeople Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian lifeHe's now also on Bluesky

Sometimes the people closest to us can see things we've become blind to.In this Quick Spoon, Ross reflects on a powerful moment from his conversation with organisational psychologist Dr Joanne Gray.After years in a demanding corporate role, Joe made the decision to leave. When she shared the news with her Dad, his response was immediate:"Thank God for that."Those four words revealed something important. While Joe had been pushing on, those closest to her had already noticed the impact that work was having on her wellbeing.This Quick Spoon explores perspective, self-awareness, and the value of having people in our lives who are willing to tell us the truth when we need to hear it.Something to reflect uponWho are the people in your life who tell you the truth when you need to hear it?And when was the last time you listened?Listen to the Full EpisodePowering Workplace Proactivity with Dr Joanne GrayPeople Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following People Soup, leaving a rating or review, or sharing it with someone who might find it useful.Every recommendation helps more people discover practical, evidence-based conversations about work, leadership and being human.Full episode - Powering workplace proactivity with Dr Joe Gray – on Apple PodcastsFind Joe on InstagramThe Progress Lab | We’re on a mission to make workplaces work better, helping people & organisations unleash their potential.Connect with Joe on LinkedInJoe's website - Powering ProactivityJoe's Book - Powering Workplace ProactivityHere's the People Soup Website.Visit Ross' Website.Connect with Ross on LinkedInPeople Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian lifeHe's now also on Bluesky

What happens when your body starts telling you something you don't want to hear?In this Quick Spoon, Ross reflects on a moment from his conversation with business psychologist, consultant and author, Dr Joe Gray.While working in a demanding corporate role, Jo began experiencing a persistent "flicky eye". What seemed like a minor irritation turned out to be a sign that something deeper was going on.It's a reminder that warning signs don't always arrive as a crisis. Sometimes they show up as tension, disrupted sleep, irritability, or a feeling of being permanently switched on.Ross explores how easy it is to normalise these signals and offers a simple reflection to help us pay attention before small signs become bigger problems.Something to Reflect OnWhat signal might your body be sending you that you've stopped paying attention to?Listen to the Full EpisodePowering Workplace Proactivity with Dr Joanne Gray via the link below!People Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following People Soup, leaving a rating or review, or sharing it with someone who might find it useful.Every recommendation helps more people discover practical, evidence-based conversations about work, leadership and being human.Full episode - Powering workplace proactivity with Dr Joe Gray – on Apple PodcastsFind Joe on InstagramThe Progress Lab | We’re on a mission to make workplaces work better, helping people & organisations unleash their potential.Connect with Joe on LinkedInJoe's website - Powering ProactivityJoe's Book - Powering Workplace ProactivityHere's the People Soup Website.Visit Ross' Website.Connect with Ross on LinkedInPeople Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian lifeHe's now also on Bluesky

What happens when success no longer feels quite right?In this episode of People Soup, Ross speaks with organisational psychologist, consultant and author Dr Joanne Gray.Joe shares the story of a major career transition that took her from a senior corporate leadership role into the world of business psychology and consulting. Along the way, she reflects on the warning signs she experienced, the role of values in shaping career decisions, and the moment she realised something had to change.The conversation then explores Joe's work on workplace proactivity – what it really means, why organisations often struggle to create the conditions for it, and how leaders can unintentionally shut it down.You'll also hear a simple and practical framework that can help us think about taking action when something matters.In this episodeJoanne's journey from corporate leadership to organisational psychologyRecognising the signs of exhaustion and burnoutWhat happens when workplace culture no longer aligns with your valuesWhy proactivity is more than simply being helpfulThe difference between reactive and proactive workWhy proactivity can sometimes become another workplace demandThe Can Do, Reason To, Energised To frameworkLeadership, psychological safety and fairnessJoanne's walk-on music choiceA question to reflect onWhen you're considering a change, taking initiative or speaking up, ask yourself:Can I do it?Do I have a reason to do it?Do I have the energy to do it?Walk-on MusicEverybody's Free (To Feel Good) – RozallaPeople Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following People Soup, leaving a rating or review, or sharing it with someone who might find it useful.Every recommendation helps more people discover practical, evidence-based conversations about work, leadership and being human.Find Joe on InstagramThe Progress Lab | We’re on a mission to make workplaces work better, helping people & organisations unleash their potential.Connect with Joe on LinkedInJoe's Book - Powering Workplace ProactivityHere's the People Soup Website.Visit Ross' Website.Connect with Ross on LinkedInPeople Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian lifeHe's now also on Bluesky

Pressure has a way of revealing patterns we'd rather not see.Defensiveness.Control.Avoidance.Reactivity.But these experiences aren't signs that we've failed.They're opportunities to notice what's driving our behaviour.In this Quick Spoon, Ross explores one of the central ideas behind psychological flexibility: once we notice what's running us, we create the possibility of choosing differently.And that's where leadership begins.Key Quote"Pressure doesn't reveal who we are. Pressure reveals what's running us."Reflection QuestionsThe next time you feel pressure building:What is driving me right now?And what matters here?People Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following People Soup, leaving a rating or review, or sharing it with someone who might find it useful.Every recommendation helps more people discover practical, evidence-based conversations about work, leadership and being human.Why good leaders go off track - A People Soup special #1 - People SoupLeadership beyond autopilot - The McIntosh ACT Leadership FrameworkHere's the People Soup Website.Visit Ross' Website.Connect with Ross on LinkedInPeople Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian lifeHe's now also on Bluesky

Starting a new role, joining a new team or entering a different culture can be unsettling.The expectations feel different.The responses you receive aren't what you expected.And sometimes, without realising it, you start holding back.In this Quick Spoon, Ross explores a common misunderstanding about adaptability. It's not about becoming smaller or suppressing what matters to you. It's about finding a way to express what matters in a way that fits the context.Reflection QuestionsWhere are you currently holding back more than you'd like?What's one small way you could contribute more visibly this week?People Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following People Soup, leaving a rating or review, or sharing it with someone who might find it useful.Every recommendation helps more people discover practical, evidence-based conversations about work, leadership and being human.Why good leaders go off track - A People Soup special #1 - People SoupLeadership beyond autopilot - The McIntosh ACT Leadership FrameworkHere's the People Soup Website.Visit Ross' Website.Connect with Ross on LinkedInPeople Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian lifeHe's now also on Bluesky

Avoidance Rarely Feels Like AvoidanceMost workplace avoidance isn't dramatic.It's the difficult conversation that gets pushed into next week.And then the week after.In this Quick Spoon, Ross explores one of the most common patterns he sees in leadership and the workplace: avoiding discomfort while convincing ourselves we're waiting for the right moment, more information or greater certainty.The challenge?Discomfort often grows when left unattended.Reflection QuestionWhat's one conversation you've been postponing?And what's the smallest possible step you could take today?People Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following People Soup, leaving a rating or review, or sharing it with someone who might find it useful.Every recommendation helps more people discover practical, evidence-based conversations about work, leadership and being human.Why good leaders go off track - A People Soup special #1 - People SoupLeadership beyond autopilot - The McIntosh ACT Leadership FrameworkHere's the People Soup Website.Visit Ross' Website.Connect with Ross on LinkedInPeople Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian lifeHe's now also on Bluesky

Success doesn't always feel like success.In this Quick Spoon, Ross reflects on a coaching conversation with someone who appeared to have everything going for them: successful, respected and on track for a remarkable career.Yet something wasn't right.As they explored what mattered most, a powerful pattern emerged. Many of their decisions weren't moving them towards what they valued. Instead, they were helping them avoid disappointing other people.It's a trap that many of us fall into, especially when we're caring, conscientious and ambitious.Reflection QuestionThink about a decision you're currently wrestling with.Are you moving towards something important, or away from someone else's disappointment?People Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following People Soup, leaving a rating or review, or sharing it with someone who might find it useful.Every recommendation helps more people discover practical, evidence-based conversations about work, leadership and being human.Why good leaders go off track - A People Soup special #1 - People SoupLeadership beyond autopilot - The McIntosh ACT Leadership FrameworkHere's the People Soup Website.Visit Ross' Website.Connect with Ross on LinkedInPeople Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian lifeHe's now also on Bluesky

You can't lead beyond what you notice and awareness often begins with a metaphorical itch.A feeling that something isn't quite right. Something isn't fitting. Something needs attention.In this Quick Spoon, Ross reflects on a question that changed what he started paying attention to and explores why awareness can be uncomfortable, but essential for growth and leadership.Reflection Question - What have you been noticing recently that you've been tempted to brush aside?People Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following People Soup, leaving a rating or review, or sharing it with someone who might find it useful.Every recommendation helps more people discover practical, evidence-based conversations about work, leadership and being human.Leadership beyond autopilot - The McIntosh ACT Leadership FrameworkHere's the People Soup Website.Visit Ross' Website.Connect with Ross on LinkedInPeople Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian lifeHe's now also on Bluesky

We're encouraged to be quick, responsive and always on.But what happens when urgency becomes identity, reaction becomes leadership and speed becomes a virtue?In this Quick Spoon, Ross reflects on why he believes the pause is becoming an unfashionable leadership skill—and why that might be a problem.Discover why the pause sits at the heart of Ross's leadership framework and a simple practice to help create more choice in moments that matter.Reflection QuestionPause for 5 seconds and as yourself - what's needed here?People Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following People Soup, leaving a rating or review, or sharing it with someone who might find it useful.Every recommendation helps more people discover practical, evidence-based conversations about work, leadership and being human.Leadership beyond autopilot - The McIntosh ACT Leadership FrameworkHere's the People Soup Website.Visit Ross' Website.Connect with Ross on LinkedInPeople Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian lifeHe's now also on Bluesky

Why do good people do things they later regret?It's a question that's fascinated me for years.Before I became a coach, studied organisational psychology, or discovered Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), I spent years in HR leadership. One of my roles was leading the Conduct and Discipline Team in a large government department in the UK Civil Service. In that job I became increasingly curious about what really drives human behaviour.In this special solo episode, I share my working hypothesis about leadership:Under pressure, leaders often default to behaviours designed to reduce discomfort rather than create impact.I explore six common patterns of psychologically inflexible leadership and introduce my leadership framework, built around three core skills topped and tailed by the Pause and the Review Loop:PauseAwarenessAuthentic ActionAdaptabilityand the Review Loop.Along the way, I share stories from my own leadership journey, including:What I learned from conduct and discipline casesA memorable disagreement with a tech startup founder about the value of pausingThe conversation with my husband that changed what I paid attention toLessons from coaching senior leaders through moments of challenge and transitionWhy authenticity became such an important part of my leadership philosophyThis episode is both a reflection on leadership and an invitation to consider what might be running you when pressure shows up.In this episodeWhy leaders are not exempt from being humanSix common ways leaders can drift off courseWhy the pause is a leadership superpowerThe importance of awareness and noticing what mattersValues, authenticity and courageous actionAdapting without abandoning yourselfWhy reflection turns experience into wisdomWhat ACT has taught me about leadership and human behaviourKey quote"Pressure doesn't reveal who we are. Pressure reveals what's running us."Reflection questionWhen pressure rises, what patterns show up most often for you?ResourcesYou can find an illustration of my ACT-based Leadership Framework in the show notes.People Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following People Soup, leaving a rating or review, or sharing it with someone who might find it useful.Every recommendation helps more people discover practical, evidence-based conversations about work, leadership and being human.Leadership beyond autopilot - The McIntosh ACT Leadership FrameworkHere's the People Soup Website.Visit Ross' Website.Connect with Ross on LinkedInPeople Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian lifeHe's now also on Bluesky

In this Quick Spoon, Ross explores the fourth skill in the McIntosh Leadership Framework: Adaptability.Inspired by a candid reflection from Gabriella Braun, this episode explores what happens when leadership becomes uncertain, messy, political, and deeply human.So many leadership books promise certainty, control, and easy answers.But real leadership often starts feeling difficult at exactly the moment complexity arrives.Ross reflects on what leaders can do when pressure rises, certainty disappears, and their usual ways of coping stop working.And he shares one practical question that can help turn pressure into purposeful action.In this Quick Spoon🥄 Why leadership becomes harder under uncertainty🥄 What happens when leaders grip tighter under pressure🥄 The hidden link between rigidity and reduced impact🥄 A practical reflection question to try this weekKey reflection“Who do I want to be in this moment?”People Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following People Soup, leaving a rating or review, or sharing it with someone who might find it useful.Every recommendation helps more people discover practical, evidence-based conversations about work, leadership and being human.Leadership beyond autopilot - The McIntosh ACT Leadership FrameworkHere's the People Soup Website.Visit Ross' Website.Connect with Ross on LinkedInPeople Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian lifeHe's now also on Bluesky

In this Quick Spoon, Ross explores the third skill in the McIntosh Leadership Framework: Authentic Action.Inspired by a powerful insight from Gabriella Braun, this episode looks at the tension leaders face between acting from fear… or acting from what matters most.Gabriella describes how every workplace contains both constructive and destructive forces — and how leadership often involves helping people move towards the constructive side.Ross reflects on what this can mean in practice during difficult conversations, moments of tension, and everyday leadership decisions.Because authentic leadership isn’t about avoiding discomfort.It’s about acting with clarity, courage, and humanity.In this Quick Spoon🥄 Why leadership is more than decision-making🥄 The difference between acting from fear and acting from values🥄 Why love and courage belong in leadership conversations🥄 A practical reflection to try before your next difficult conversationKey reflection“What would love and courage look like here?”People Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following People Soup, leaving a rating or review, or sharing it with someone who might find it useful.Every recommendation helps more people discover practical, evidence-based conversations about work, leadership and being human.Leadership beyond autopilot - The McIntosh ACT Leadership FrameworkHere's the People Soup Website.Visit Ross' Website.Connect with Ross on LinkedInPeople Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian lifeHe's now also on Bluesky

In this Quick Spoon, Ross explores the second skill in the McIntosh Leadership Framework: Awareness.Inspired by a reflection from Gabriella Braun, this episode looks at the leadership power of noticing what’s happening beneath the surface — in ourselves, in teams, and in the wider system around us.So often, leaders feel pressure to speak quickly, solve problems, and drive action.But what if better leadership sometimes starts with noticing more… and saying less?Ross shares a practical experiment to help leaders develop awareness in meetings, conversations, and everyday workplace dynamics.In this Quick Spoon🥄 Why awareness is a core leadership skill🥄 The hidden dynamics we often miss in meetings🥄 How curiosity can change a room🥄 A practical experiment to try this weekKey reflection“You can’t lead beyond what you notice.”People Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following People Soup, leaving a rating or review, or sharing it with someone who might find it useful.Every recommendation helps more people discover practical, evidence-based conversations about work, leadership and being human.Leadership beyond autopilot - The McIntosh ACT Leadership FrameworkHere's the People Soup Website.Visit Ross' Website.Connect with Ross on LinkedInPeople Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian lifeHe's now also on Bluesky

In this Quick Spoon, Ross explores the first skill in the McIntosh Leadership Framework: Pause.Inspired by a powerful reflection from Gabriella Braun, this episode looks at those moments when our reactions feel immediate, emotional, and difficult to control.Why does one comment roll off our backs… while another lingers all day?And what might change if, instead of reacting automatically, we paused long enough to notice what’s happening inside us?Ross shares a simple practical experiment to help leaders interrupt autopilot, create choice, and respond with greater awareness and intention.In this Quick Spoon🥄 Why our reactions at work can feel instant🥄 The leadership power of pausing before reacting🥄 How to interrupt autopilot and habitual responses🥄 A simple reflection question to try this weekKey reflection“Between stimulus and response… that’s where your leadership lives.”People Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following People Soup, leaving a rating or review, or sharing it with someone who might find it useful.Every recommendation helps more people discover practical, evidence-based conversations about work, leadership and being human.Here's the People Soup Website.Visit Ross' Website.Connect with Ross on LinkedInPeople Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian lifeHe's now also on Bluesky

Every workplace seems to have one.The difficult colleague.The challenging client.The person who pushes your buttons before they’ve even opened their mouth.In this Quick Spoon from my conversation with Dr Eric Goodman, we explore a different way of responding to difficult people at work.Not by excusing behaviour.Not by pretending it’s easy.But by asking a different question:What if compassion reduced your suffering… not just theirs?A practical reflection on threat responses, workplace relationships, and how seeing people differently might change the impact they have on us.People Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following People Soup, leaving a rating or review, or sharing it with someone who might find it useful.Every recommendation helps more people discover practical, evidence-based conversations about work, leadership and being human.Eric's WebsiteHere's the People Soup Website.Visit Ross' Website.Connect with Ross on LinkedInPeople Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian lifeHe's now also on Bluesky

In this episode of People Soup, Ross is joined by consultant, psychoanalytic thinker, and author Gabriella Braun for a deeply human conversation about why work can feel so personal.Drawing on her remarkable book All That We Are, Gabriella explores what really happens beneath the surface in teams, organisations, and leadership.Together, Ross and Gabriella explore:Why we can’t simply “leave our emotions at home”How Gabriella’s experience as the child of immigrants shaped her ability to observe human systemsThe leadership experience that left her “floundering”… and sparked a lifelong curiosity about organisational lifeWhy so many workplaces are carrying hidden distressWhat leaders learned about vulnerability during COVIDWhy psychoanalytic thinking has so much to offer the workplaceThe deeply personal writing journey behind All That We AreWhy leaders may be helping their organisations choose between constructive and destructive forces every single dayAnd finally…Why love may have a lot more to do with leadership than we often admit.Originally released in 2023. Reimagined and re-edited for the new People Soup format in 2026.People Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following People Soup, leaving a rating or review, or sharing it with someone who might find it useful.Every recommendation helps more people discover practical, evidence-based conversations about work, leadership and being human.Connect with Gabriella on LinkedInGabriella Braun's websiteHere's the People Soup Website.Visit Ross' Website.Connect with Ross on LinkedInPeople Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian lifeHe's now also on Bluesky

What do you do when anxiety shows up… right when something matters?A networking event.A room full of strangers.A voice in your head saying:“Your Spanish isn’t good enough.”In this Quick Spoon, I share a very real moment from a networking event for psychologists in Seville—where social anxiety showed up… and so did the urge to run.But instead of waiting to feel confident…I tried something smaller.Something more workable.Speak to three people.That was the goal.Not confidence.Not perfection.Just one small, values-based action.A practical reflection on anxiety, workable goals, and taking action—even when your mind is telling you otherwise.People Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following People Soup, leaving a rating or review, or sharing it with someone who might find it useful.Every recommendation helps more people discover practical, evidence-based conversations about work, leadership and being human.Here's the People Soup Website.Visit Ross' Website.Connect with Ross on LinkedInPeople Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian lifeHe's now also on Bluesky

What do you do in those moments when emotions are running high?An awkward conversation.A difficult email.A family disagreement.A colleague who’s pushing your buttons.In this Quick Spoon from my conversation with Dr Eric Goodman, we explore one simple question that can create a little more space… and a little more choice:“If I was at my absolute best right now… what would I want to do?”Not…What do I feel like doing?Not…What would be easiest?But…What would my best self choose?A practical reflection on values, choice, and how to respond—rather than simply react—when things get challenging.People Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following People Soup, leaving a rating or review, or sharing it with someone who might find it useful.Every recommendation helps more people discover practical, evidence-based conversations about work, leadership and being human.Eric's WebsiteHere's the People Soup Website.Visit Ross' Website.Connect with Ross on LinkedInPeople Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian lifeHe's now also on Bluesky

What if the goal was never to become stress-free?Or anxiety-free.Or grief-free.In this Quick Spoon from my conversation with Dr Eric Goodman, we challenge a myth that many of us still buy into:That difficult emotions are somehow a sign that something’s gone wrong.Eric offers a different perspective:Painful emotions aren’t a design flaw.They’re part of being human.And the real skill may not be fighting what we feel…but learning how to notice it with a little more awareness—and a little more compassion.People Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following People Soup, leaving a rating or review, or sharing it with someone who might find it useful.Every recommendation helps more people discover practical, evidence-based conversations about work, leadership and being human.Eric's WebsiteHere's the People Soup Website.Visit Ross' Website.Connect with Ross on LinkedInPeople Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian lifeHe's now also on Bluesky

Ever noticed how pressure can shrink your options?A difficult conversation.An awkward email.A deadline.A piece of feedback you weren’t expecting.And suddenly… you’re reacting before you’ve even realised it.In this Quick Spoon from my conversation with Dr Eric Goodman, we explore what he describes as one of the most crucial skills in mental health:Getting off autopilot.Taking a pause.Calling a timeout.And choosing a response that’s…Helpful, not harmful.A short practical reflection on choice, self-awareness, and creating a little more space when life gets challenging.Because that space, creates options.People Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following People Soup, leaving a rating or review, or sharing it with someone who might find it useful.Every recommendation helps more people discover practical, evidence-based conversations about work, leadership and being human.Eric's WebsiteHere's the People Soup Website.Visit Ross' Website.Connect with Ross on LinkedInPeople Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian lifeHe's now also on Bluesky

Why do we sometimes react in ways that don’t feel like us?Why do we say things we later regret, shut down under pressure, or act against our values?In this Quick Spoon from my conversation with Dr Eric Goodman, we explore a powerful idea:Sometimes, in difficult moments…“We’re locked out of the controls.”And if that’s true…Beating ourselves up probably isn’t the answer.Awareness might be.A practical reflection on self-compassion, threat responses, and how to choose a response that’s guided by your values—not just your emotions.People Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following People Soup, leaving a rating or review, or sharing it with someone who might find it useful.Every recommendation helps more people discover practical, evidence-based conversations about work, leadership and being human.Eric's WebsiteHere's the People Soup Website.Visit Ross' Website.Connect with Ross on LinkedInPeople Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian lifeHe's now also on Bluesky

Why do good people sometimes say things they later regret?Why do we shut down, snap, or go into fight mode when pressure rises?In this Quick Spoon from my conversation with Dr Eric Goodman, we explore a powerful idea:Sometimes it’s not weakness.Sometimes your threat system is driving the bus.And when that happens, we can find ourselves reacting in ways that don’t reflect who we want to be.A practical and compassionate reminder that awareness creates choice… especially in difficult moments.People Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following People Soup, leaving a rating or review, or sharing it with someone who might find it useful.Every recommendation helps more people discover practical, evidence-based conversations about work, leadership and being human.Eric's WebsiteHere's the People Soup Website.Visit Ross' Website.Connect with Ross on LinkedInPeople Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian lifeHe's now also on Bluesky

Why do some people push our buttons so easily?And what if compassion wasn’t about excusing behaviour… but understanding how people are shaped?In this Quick Spoon from my conversation with Dr Eric Goodman, we explore a powerful idea:None of us chose our genetics.None of us chose our upbringing.None of us chose the experiences that shaped us.But…We do have some say in who we become next.A thought-provoking reflection on compassion, responsibility, and how we respond to difficult people—at work and beyond.People Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following People Soup, leaving a rating or review, or sharing it with someone who might find it useful.Every recommendation helps more people discover practical, evidence-based conversations about work, leadership and being human.Eric's WebsiteHere's the People Soup Website.Visit Ross' Website.Connect with Ross on LinkedInPeople Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian lifeHe's now also on Bluesky

When life and work feel busy, speed can become the default.We move quickly from one conversation to the next, reacting, deciding, replying, and solving without much space in between.In this final Quick Spoon from Ross’ conversation with Jessica Lee, we explore the value of something simple:The pause.A pause can create enough distance to notice what matters, respond with more intention, and choose how we want to show up.It doesn’t need to be dramatic.Sometimes it’s one breath.Sometimes it’s one question.Sometimes it’s a few seconds before replying.Small pauses can create meaningful change.What This Episode ExploresWhy constant speed can reduce clarityHow pauses create better choicesThe link between awareness and behaviourA practical tool for leaders and teamsHow small moments can change outcomesKey IdeaThe pause creates space — and space creates choice.ReflectionWhere could you create a small pause today?People Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following People Soup, leaving a rating or review, or sharing it with someone who might find it useful.Every recommendation helps more people discover practical, evidence-based conversations about work, leadership and being human.You’re not “just” anything: rethinking leadership, identity and assumptions at work with Jess LeeHere's the People Soup Website.Visit Ross' Website.Connect with Ross on LinkedInPeople Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian lifeHe's now also on Bluesky

Dr. Eric Goodman joins Ross McIntosh for a practical and powerful conversation about how we respond when life feels overwhelming.Why do smart, capable people sometimes say things they regret, shut down under pressure, or react in ways that don’t reflect who they want to be?Eric explains how our threat system can take over, why that’s completely human, and what we can do to regain choice in difficult moments.Together, Ross and Eric explore:Why we all go on autopilot sometimesHow the threat system can “drive the bus”Why painful emotions are part of being humanA simple sequence for getting grounded under pressureHow self-compassion can reduce suffering without removing difficultyOne question that can guide wiser action:“If I was at my absolute best, what would I want to do now?”How to deal with difficult people at workEric’s memorable acronym: AFGO – Another F*ing Growth Opportunity**This episode is full of practical ideas for work, leadership and everyday life.People Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following People Soup, leaving a rating or review, or sharing it with someone who might find it useful.Every recommendation helps more people discover practical, evidence-based conversations about work, leadership and being human.Guided meditations from EricEric's WebsiteHere's the People Soup Website.Visit Ross' Website.Connect with Ross on LinkedInPeople Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian lifeHe's now also on Bluesky

Leadership roles often come with more pressure than preparation.In this Quick Spoon, Ross reflects on why leadership can feel so difficult — especially when people step into bigger roles and suddenly face new expectations.They may still be doing their day job. Still managing people.But now they’re also expected to think strategically, communicate differently, make bigger decisions, and carry wider responsibility.All at once.For many people, the challenge is not capability.It’s the gap between what the role demands and the support available.If leadership feels hard at times, it may not be a personal failing. It may be a sign that the expectations need to be re-examined.What This Episode ExploresWhy leadership roles can feel overwhelmingThe shift from manager to broader leadership responsibilitiesThe gap between expectations and supportWhy difficulty doesn’t equal failureA practical reflection for regaining clarityKey Idea👉 Leadership often feels hard when expectations rise faster than support.ReflectionWhat actually matters right now?People Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following People Soup, leaving a rating or review, or sharing it with someone who might find it useful.Every recommendation helps more people discover practical, evidence-based conversations about work, leadership and being human.You’re not “just” anything: rethinking leadership, identity and assumptions at work with Jess LeeHere's the People Soup Website.Visit Ross' Website.Connect with Ross on LinkedInPeople Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian lifeHe's now also on Bluesky

“I’m just a manager.”“They’re a leader.”These phrases reveal a common assumption at work: that leadership belongs to people with titles.In this Quick Spoon, Ross explores a different perspective.Leadership often starts long before someone joins a senior team or receives a promotion. It shows up in behaviour, communication, consistency, and how people respond under pressure.People notice more than we think.They notice how we treat colleagues, how we make decisions, what we reward, and what we tolerate.Which means leadership may already be happening — whether we realise it or not.What This Episode ExploresWhy leadership is often confused with hierarchyThe difference between title and influenceHow behaviour shapes cultureWhy people are always watching leaders (formal or informal)A simple reflection on personal impact at workKey IdeaLeadership doesn’t start with a title. It starts with behaviour.ReflectionWhat are you modelling — whether you realise it or not?People Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following People Soup, leaving a rating or review, or sharing it with someone who might find it useful.Every recommendation helps more people discover practical, evidence-based conversations about work, leadership and being human.Here's the People Soup Website.Visit Ross' Website.Connect with Ross on LinkedInPeople Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian lifeHe's now also on Bluesky

A single word can mean different things to different people.In this Quick Spoon, Ross shares a simple example from a conversation with Jess — where saying “sorry” meant something very different depending on the cultural context.What felt normal in one place was interpreted completely differently in another.And this kind of misunderstanding happens more often than we realise.At work, we tend to assume that our way of communicating is the standard — when in reality, it’s just what we’re used to.When something feels off — too direct, too soft, or slightly uncomfortable — it’s easy to label it as wrong.But often, it’s simply different.What This Episode ExploresHow the same words can carry different meaningsThe role of cultural and contextual differences in communicationWhy we assume our communication style is “normal”How misinterpretation can happen at workA simple shift in perspectiveKey IdeaWhat feels “normal” to us is often just familiar.ReflectionWhat might be different — rather than wrong?People Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following People Soup, leaving a rating or review, or sharing it with someone who might find it useful.Every recommendation helps more people discover practical, evidence-based conversations about work, leadership and being human.Here's the People Soup Website.Visit Ross' Website.Connect with Ross on LinkedInPeople Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian lifeHe's now also on Bluesky

“I’m just…”It’s a phrase that shows up in many workplaces — often without much thought.But this seemingly small piece of language can have a significant impact.In this Quick Spoon, Ross explores how the word “just” can subtly shape behaviour, influencing how people contribute, communicate, and see their own value at work.When people describe themselves as “just” something, they can unintentionally minimise their role — speaking up less, holding back ideas, and second guessing their contribution.Over time, these small patterns can reinforce limiting beliefs about what someone is capable of.But the reality is:Everyone is already influencing something.Everyone is already shaping the culture around them.What This Episode ExploresThe hidden impact of the phrase “I’m just…”How language shapes behaviour at workWhy people may undervalue their contributionThe link between identity and actionA simple reflection to build awarenessKey IdeaThe language we use about ourselves can shape how we show up — often without us realising.ReflectionWhere are you saying “I’m just…”?People Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following People Soup, leaving a rating or review, or sharing it with someone who might find it useful.Every recommendation helps more people discover practical, evidence-based conversations about work, leadership and being human.Here's the People Soup Website.Visit Ross' Website.Connect with Ross on LinkedInPeople Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian lifeHe's now also on Bluesky

“You’re not a creative.”It’s a simple phrase — but one that can have a lasting impact.In this Quick Spoon, inspired by a conversation with Jess Lee, Ross explores how quickly we label people at work, and how those labels can shape behaviour in subtle but powerful ways.From “creative” to “not creative”, “strategic” to “not strategic”, these categories can influence who speaks up, who contributes, and who holds back.But creativity — like many capabilities — isn’t a fixed identity or a job title.It shows up in how we solve problems, connect ideas, and approach challenges.And the real risk?We don’t just apply labels to others — we start to believe them about ourselves.What This Episode ExploresHow labels form quickly in workplace settingsWhy labels can limit contributionThe difference between identity and capabilityHow internalised labels shape behaviourA simple reflection to increase awarenessKey IdeaThe labels we carry can shape how we show up — often without us realising.ReflectionWhat label might be shaping how you show up?People Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following People Soup, leaving a rating or review, or sharing it with someone who might find it useful.Every recommendation helps more people discover practical, evidence-based conversations about work, leadership and being human.Connect with Jess on LinkedInJess' WebsiteHere's the People Soup Website.Visit Ross' Website.Connect with Ross on LinkedInPeople Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian lifeHe's now also on Bluesky

Grief can stop us in our tracks — but it can also shape what we do next.In this Quick Spoon, Jill Stoddard shares a deeply human moment about loss, connection, and continuing forward.People Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following People Soup, leaving a rating or review, or sharing it with someone who might find it useful.Every recommendation helps more people discover practical, evidence-based conversations about work, leadership and being human.Here's the People Soup Website.Visit Ross' Website.Connect with Ross on LinkedInPeople Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian lifeHe's now also on BlueskyDr Jill StoddardJill's Website.Jill's Books.Jill's TEDx Talk - How to Succeed in Every Moment Even When You're FailingConnect with Jill on LinkedIn.

If you could learn one skill to change your life — this might be it.In this Quick Spoon, Jill Stoddard explains why willingness — not confidence — is the real key to growth.A simple practice you can try immediately.People Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following People Soup, leaving a rating or review, or sharing it with someone who might find it useful.Every recommendation helps more people discover practical, evidence-based conversations about work, leadership and being human.Here's the People Soup Website.Visit Ross' Website.Connect with Ross on LinkedInPeople Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian lifeHe's now also on BlueskyDr Jill StoddardJill's Website.Jill's Books.Jill's TEDx Talk - How to Succeed in Every Moment Even When You're FailingConnect with Jill on LinkedIn.

How often do we limit ourselves with the stories we tell?“I’m not creative.”“I’m just HR.”“I’m not a leader.”In this episode of People Soup, Ross McIntosh is joined by organisational psychologist Jess Lee to explore how these seemingly small phrases can have a big impact on how we think, behave, and show up at work.Drawing on Jess’s experience across industries and cultures, they unpack how assumptions — about roles, industries, and even ourselves — can shape behaviour in subtle but powerful ways.They also explore the reality of leadership today: why expectations can feel overwhelming, why leadership is more complex than we often acknowledge, and why the starting point might not be skills — but self-awareness.This is a practical and reflective conversation about identity, leadership, and the human side of work.What You’ll LearnWhy labels like “I’m not creative” can limit contributionHow assumptions show up across cultures and workplacesThe hidden impact of saying “I’m just…”Why leadership isn’t about job titlesWhy leadership can feel overwhelming — and what’s missingThe importance of self-awareness and self-leadershipHow small pauses can create more intentional choicesPeople Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following People Soup, leaving a rating or review, or sharing it with someone who might find it useful.Every recommendation helps more people discover practical, evidence-based conversations about work, leadership and being human.Connect with Jess on LinkedInJess' WebsiteHere's the People Soup Website.Visit Ross' Website.Connect with Ross on LinkedInPeople Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian lifeHe's now also on Bluesky

Ever noticed how your mind talks you out of big opportunities?In this Quick Spoon, Jill Stoddard shares what happened when a TEDx opportunity triggered a spiral of self-doubt — and what we can learn from it.People Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following People Soup, leaving a rating or review, or sharing it with someone who might find it useful.Every recommendation helps more people discover practical, evidence-based conversations about work, leadership and being human.Here's the People Soup Website.Visit Ross' Website.Connect with Ross on LinkedInPeople Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian lifeHe's now also on BlueskyDr Jill StoddardJill's Website.Jill's Books.Jill's TEDx Talk - How to Succeed in Every Moment Even When You're FailingConnect with Jill on LinkedIn.

When you’re stuck, whose voice would help you move forward?In this Quick Spoon, Jill Stoddard introduces the “J” exercise — a simple way to act in line with your values.Who’s your “J”?People Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following People Soup, leaving a rating or review, or sharing it with someone who might find it useful.Every recommendation helps more people discover practical, evidence-based conversations about work, leadership and being human.Here's the People Soup Website.Visit Ross' Website.Connect with Ross on LinkedInPeople Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian lifeHe's now also on BlueskyDr Jill StoddardJill's Website.Jill's Books.Jill's TEDx Talk - How to Succeed in Every Moment Even When You're FailingConnect with Jill on LinkedIn.

You don’t need fear to disappear before you act.In this Quick Spoon, Jill Stoddard shares what it looks like to take action in the presence of fear — guided by your values.People Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following People Soup, leaving a rating or review, or sharing it with someone who might find it useful.Every recommendation helps more people discover practical, evidence-based conversations about work, leadership and being human.Here's the People Soup Website.Visit Ross' Website.Connect with Ross on LinkedInPeople Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian lifeHe's now also on BlueskyDr Jill StoddardJill's Website.Jill's Books.Jill's TEDx Talk - How to Succeed in Every Moment Even When You're FailingConnect with Jill on LinkedIn.

We often treat our thoughts as facts — but what if they’re just… thoughts?In this Quick Spoon, Dr. Jill Stoddard explores how creating space from your thinking can change your actions.Less autopilot. More choice.People Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following People Soup, leaving a rating or review, or sharing it with someone who might find it useful.Every recommendation helps more people discover practical, evidence-based conversations about work, leadership and being human.Here's the People Soup Website.Visit Ross' Website.Connect with Ross on LinkedInPeople Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian lifeHe's now also on BlueskyDr Jill StoddardJill's Website.Jill's Books.Jill's TEDx Talk - How to Succeed in Every Moment Even When You're FailingConnect with Jill on LinkedIn.

What if your inner critic had a name… and you didn’t have to believe it?In this Quick Spoon, Dr. Jill Stoddard shares a simple but powerful technique for creating distance from self-doubt.“Not today, Kevin” might be exactly what you need.People Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following People Soup, leaving a rating or review, or sharing it with someone who might find it useful.Every recommendation helps more people discover practical, evidence-based conversations about work, leadership and being human.Here's the People Soup Website.Visit Ross' Website.Connect with Ross on LinkedInPeople Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian lifeHe's now also on BlueskyDr Jill StoddardJill's Website.Jill's Books.Jill's TEDx Talk - How to Succeed in Every Moment Even When You're FailingConnect with Jill on LinkedIn.

“If I have to convince myself I’m extraordinary… it’s never going to happen.” In this Quick Spoon, Dr. Jill Stoddard shares a powerful truth: confidence isn’t a prerequisite for action.A short, practical insight into moving forward — even when your mind says you’re not ready.People Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following People Soup, leaving a rating or review, or sharing it with someone who might find it useful.Every recommendation helps more people discover practical, evidence-based conversations about work, leadership and being human.Here's the People Soup Website.Visit Ross' Website.Connect with Ross on LinkedInPeople Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian lifeHe's now also on BlueskyDr Jill StoddardJill's Website.Jill's Books.Jill's TEDx Talk - How to Succeed in Every Moment Even When You're FailingConnect with Jill on LinkedIn.

What if confidence isn’t required before you take action?In this episode of People Soup, Ross McIntosh sits down with Dr Jill Stoddard — psychologist, author of Impostor No More, and co-host of Psychologists Off the Clock.Together, they explore the reality of imposter thoughts and why trying to eliminate them often makes things worse.You’ll hear:Why high achievers still feel like fraudsThe limits of “positive thinking”How to respond differently to your inner criticJill’s powerful TEDx story — and what her mind was sayingThe role of values in taking meaningful actionA simple but transformative skill: getting comfortable being uncomfortableThis episode is grounded in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), offering practical tools you can apply immediately.Over the coming days, look out for Quick Spoon episodes — short, practical extracts from this conversation.This episode was produced and edited from a previous People Soup interview recording with Dr Jill Stoddard.People Soup: Real conversations about work, leadership, and being human — grounded in behavioural science, with practical ideas you can actually use.If this episode resonated with you, please consider following People Soup, leaving a rating or review, or sharing it with someone who might find it useful.Every recommendation helps more people discover practical, evidence-based conversations about work, leadership and being human.Here's the People Soup Website.Visit Ross' Website.Connect with Ross on LinkedInPeople Soup on Instagram which also features plenty of Ross' photos of the Andalusian lifeHe's now also on BlueskyDr Jill StoddardJill's Website.Jill's Books.Jill's TEDx Talk - How to Succeed in Every Moment Even When You're FailingConnect with Jill on LinkedIn.