TIE Unearthed

Some people sense that the question they are allowed to ask is not yet the question that matters.Reflect on that for a moment.It comes from Philippe Vandenbroeck, my guest on this week's episode. An engineer who became a philosopher, then an urban planner, then one of Europe's most original thinkers on how organisations actually change. He founded shiftN thirty years ago and now teaches imagination as a pre-design practice at ETH Zürich.What makes Philippe rare is where he has arrived. Not at more certainty, but at less. He describes a shift from systems thinking to what he calls systems being. From trying to master the mess to accepting our place inside it.We talk about why imagination is not a luxury but a precondition for change. And about a gap most organisations never measure. Most boards can name the cost of a decision, but almost none can name the cost of doing nothing. Philippe believes that gap is where the questions that matter actually live.The full episode is out now.👉 In the meantime, don't forget to share your thoughts on the episode, leave a review, and subscribe!If you'd like to stay updated on future episodes and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter here.If you would like to order my international bestselling book Return on Humanity: Leadership lessons from all corners of the earth, you can do that here.

How many times this week did you nod along when something in you wanted to say no? That small surrender feels harmless, but Nick Whitnell would argue it's exactly where the cracks begin.In this episode of TIE Unearthed, I sit down with Nick. A leadership coach, facilitator, former corporate executive, and the founder of Daring Works and The Natural Network.After years in senior leadership roles, burnout brought Nick to a full stop. What followed wasn't a dramatic reinvention or a neatly packaged transformation story. It was instead something far more honest; a slower, messier journey back toward authenticity and self-compassion.But this conversation isn't really about burnout.It's about the quiet cost of swallowing who we are to fit the systems we're part of. Maybe it's the mortgage, the family expectations, the roles we play until we forget they were ever roles at all. And it's about what it takes to come home to yourself.We talk about resilience, and why Nick avoided the word for years as it became something weaponised. The version that says "look how much I can endure" while everything inside is shattering. He offers a different picture - a lotus flower. I love the imagery.Resilience as deep roots in a nourishing environment rather than gritted teeth in a toxic one. As the art of saying no. The fierce, as well as soft, compassion to stay in bed for four days, because that, not pushing through, is what keeps you standing in the long run. Nature does this, he reminds me. What looks rotten and composted down isn't weakness. It's the whole system regenerating.We explore the tension Gabor Maté describes between authenticity and attachment. Why we nod along in meetings rather than say the thing we actually believe. And how those small surrenders become the cracks that form in our souls.And we end on Buckminster Fuller's trim tabs. The idea that the smallest movement can turn a far larger system. Follow what's truly yours, he says, and you pollinate far more than you ever planned to. Like a bee that only set out to find food.If you've been questioning the pace of your life, reassessing what success actually means, or searching for a more grounded way to move through the world, this one's for you.👉 In the meantime, don't forget to share your thoughts on the episode, leave a review, and subscribe!If you'd like to stay updated on future episodes and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter [here]. If you would like to order my international bestselling book Return on Humanity: Leadership lessons from all corners of the earth, you can do that [here]. You can also reach out to Nick and join his Trim Tabs newsletter here: https://www.daring.works/blog/trimtabs-2-connecting-more-deeply-prf7d-dmcft-zx36g-dwrkn

What happens when a profession designed to bring more humanity into organisations gets weaponised by a culture war?When language that was meant to create belonging becomes something both sides throw at each other?And when the corporate world quietly retreats from work it once pledged to champion, what are the real consequences for innovation, adaptability, and long-term survival?In this episode of TIE Unearthed, I sit down with Joe Gerstandt, a speaker, author, and advisor with over 25 years of experience leading and supporting organisational DEI efforts across nearly every industry imaginable. From Fortune 100 companies to government, healthcare, and nonprofits, Joe has spent his career helping leaders move beyond performative conversations and toward something far more grounded: cultures where people can actually think, challenge, contribute, and belong.But this conversation isn't a defence of a programme or a political argument.It's a clear-eyed look at what went wrong, what was never properly understood, and what's actually at stake.Joe talks candidly about the backlash against DEI in corporate America, why so many organisations quietly walked away, and how fear, legal uncertainty, and short-term thinking have distorted conversations that were always meant to be about people. He shares why DEI as a profession was chronically underfunded and under-supported long before the backlash, and why that changes how we should evaluate what's actually happened.We talk about what Kodak and Blockbuster have to do with inclusion. Why organisations that stop listening eventually stop adapting. And what it really costs to build cultures where truth can no longer be spoken safely across levels and across difference.Joe ends with Minneapolis. With a community that faced something hard, and responded in a way that quietly answers the question this whole conversation had been circling.You'll want to hear this.👉 Don't forget to share your thoughts, leave a review, and subscribe.If you'd like to stay updated on future episodes and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter here.If you would like to order my international bestselling book Return on Humanity: Leadership lessons from all corners of the earth, you can do that here.

What happens when technology becomes more powerful than ever, but we then forget to fully and intentionally live our lives? In this episode of TIE Unearthed, I connect with Brad Rossacci - a Creative Director, storyteller, and self-described “rebellious optimist” who believes curiosity and creativity are the fuel for human flourishing.Brad has spent years at the forefront of innovation at Accenture, and he’s now Executive Creative Director and Head of Story - shaping how some of the world’s biggest brands think, create, and connect.But this conversation goes far beyond branding and AI.We talk about the stories we tell ourselves, and how those stories end up shaping the way we create our lives. We explore the power of intentional living, the importance of the pause between stimulus and response, and what human agency means in the age of AI. We also explore authenticity and just how valuable it is in this ever-evolving world we are living in today. One of my favourite moments was Brad’s insight that:“High agency organisations use AI to augment human judgment. Low agency organisations use AI to offload thinking.”Fascinating insight. Perhaps that’s the real tension sitting underneath this entire conversation?As technology accelerates, what happens? Do we become more passive, or perhaps more intentional?More disconnected, or maybe more human?This is a conversation about story, self-awareness, technology, creativity, and what it means to consciously shape the life you want to live.So, if you’ve been thinking about the power of living more intentionally, how to build the life you want to live, and how to approach AI - and the future - from a place of agency and abundance rather than fear and scarcity, then this one’s for you.👉 In the meantime, don’t forget to share your thoughts on the episode, leave a review, and subscribe!If you'd like to stay updated on future episodes and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter ⁠⁠[⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠]. If you would like to order my international bestselling book Return on Humanity: Leadership lessons from all corners of the earth, you can do that ⁠⁠⁠[⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠].

What does resilience really look like when life doesn’t go to plan?When the future you mapped out disappears….When the people you love are facing something you can’t fix….When success, as you once defined it, no longer feels like enough….In this episode of TIE Unearthed, I sit down with Joe Hamrahi, a seasoned CFO and trusted advisor who has spent over three decades helping businesses grow, scale, and make smarter decisions.But what makes Joe different is this:He doesn’t just understand numbers.He understands what really drives them.After nearly 20 years as CFO and COO of M Booth - scaling the business from $9M to over $90M - Joe now works closely with founders through FinStrat CFO, helping them navigate complexity with clarity, grounded in both performance and humanity. Because for Joe, Return on Humanity isn’t a concept. It’s something he’s lived.After navigating his wife’s stage 4 cancer diagnosis, the breakdown of his marriage, and stepping away from a corporate world that no longer aligned with his values, he was forced to rethink everything.What actually matters?How do you keep going when life changes the rules?And what does resilience really mean, when it’s not about pushing through?This is a conversation about perspective.About how we respond when control disappears.And about redefining success - not by what we accumulate, but by how we live, lead, and show up for others.If you’re navigating uncertainty, questioning your path, or simply trying to keep going in a world that feels unpredictable….This one’s for you.👉 In the mean time, don’t forget to share your thoughts on the episode, leave a review, and subscribe!If you'd like to stay updated on future episodes and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter ⁠⁠[⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠]. If you would like to order my international bestselling book Return on Humanity: Leadership lessons from all corners of the earth, you can do that ⁠⁠⁠[⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠].

What if the most powerful leadership tool we have right now… is a story?Not a framework.Not a strategy.But a story that shifts belief, in ourselves and in others.In TIE Unearthed, episode 113, I’m joined by Cyril Awere - a people-first transformation leader and the creator of the Believe Africa podcast, now reaching 24,000 subscribers, largely across the African continent.Born in London. Raised in Ghana. Working globally. Cyril sits at the intersection of growth mindset, agility, culture, and humanity.In this conversation, we explore how people often know far more than they think they do - but haven’t yet been given permission to believe it.Why short, accessible stories can create more movement than even the most sophisticated leadership models. How adaptability starts with mindset, not method. And why changing a narrative can quietly unlock potential - in individuals, organisations, and entire generations.Because today’s leadership challenge isn’t a lack of data or tools.It’s a lack of belief, psychological safety, and space to think differently.So whether you’re heading out for a run, walking the dog, or settling in with your favourite drink - press play, get comfortable, and let’s get stuck in.👉 In the mean time, don’t forget to share your thoughts on the episode, leave a review, and subscribe!If you'd like to stay updated on future episodes and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter ⁠⁠[⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠]. If you would like to order my international bestselling book Return on Humanity: Leadership lessons from all corners of the earth, you can do that ⁠⁠⁠[⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠]. If you’d like to follow the Believe Africa podcast, you can find it and Cyril’s book [here].

What if purpose isn’t something you find, but instead something that you build?Recorded earlier this year, before life threw me a curveball, this episode ended up waiting a little longer than planned.But returning to it now, its message feels even more relevant.This episode is all about purpose. Real, steady-you-when-the-ground-moves purpose.The kind leaders are craving.The kind businesses can’t afford to ignore.My guest is the brilliant Nicola Pye - Leadership Coach, People Person, former EY Global Talent Director, and someone who has spoken to more than 40 purposeful leaders across continents and sectors to decode what purpose looks like in practice.Together, we explore:💫 What truly gives you energy (and what quietly drains it)💫 Why purpose isn’t a lightning bolt, but a series of intentional steps💫 What happens when leadership teams aren’t aligned💫 How stepping out of your comfort zone can reveal what actually lifts you💫 And why purpose and commerciality are two sides of the same coinIt’s grounded. It’s practical. And it’s full of insights that stay with you long after you’re done listening.If you’re navigating change, leading through uncertainty, or wondering whether you’re building your life and leadership intentionally, this one is for you.So throw on those running shoes, or grab that favourite beverage, and let's get stuck in!👉 In the mean time, don’t forget to share your thoughts on the episode, leave a review, and subscribe!If this conversation sparks something for you and you want to dive deeper into the research behind it, you can download all three of Nicola’s Purpose Papers – The Power of Purpose, The DNA of a Purposeful Leader, and The Dark Side of Purpose – here: ⁠www.nicolapye.com/purpose-papers⁠. They’re short, practical and full of the kind of grounded insight leaders say they wish they’d had years ago.If you'd like to stay updated on future episodes and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter ⁠⁠[⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠]. If you would like to order my international bestselling book Return on Humanity: Leadership lessons from all corners of the earth, you can do that ⁠⁠⁠[⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠].

In this special episode of TIE Unearthed, the tables turn once again.This time, my friend Helen Wada - fellow author, fellow cancer thriver, fellow podcaster, and passionate advocate for humanity in business - steps in to interview me.After an unexpected pause these last few months, life took me on a journey I never planned for. One that forced a full stop, asked me to trust my intuition, and revealed more beauty, gratitude, and clarity than I ever thought possible in the middle of a cancer chapter.Together, Helen and I explore what really happens when life throws everything up in the air - and how we choose to meet it. We talk about the power of manifestation and the art of responding when the universe has other ideas. We reflect on what emerges in the space created when everything stops, what it teaches us, and how it reshapes what we value.We dive into the lessons that surprised us both:✨ how gratitude can exist even when life feels hard✨ how joy and beauty can still find you in the thick of it✨how connection, community and letting others in becomes its own kind of strength✨ how challenge, if we allow it, can transform us from the inside outIt’s a conversation about seeing ourselves, each other, and what truly matters more clearly. And it's about finding purpose in the moments we never thought we’d have to navigate.I hope this episode gives you something meaningful to reflect on in your own life. A massive thank you to Helen for joining me and for asking such thoughtful questions. Helen's book HUMAN-WISE: How to lead from within and sell with confidence will be available globally both in store and online from March 2026.Don’t forget to share your thoughts on the episode, leave a review, and subscribe!If you'd like to stay updated on future episodes and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter ⁠⁠[⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠]. If you would like to order my international bestselling book Return on Humanity: Leadership lessons from all corners of the earth, you can do that ⁠⁠⁠[⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠].

What if the richest life wasn’t about accumulation, but contribution?What if success wasn’t about climbing higher, but going deeper - into purpose, into service, into meaning?And what if the greatest performance boost available to us today wasn’t technological, but human?Welcome to Episode 110 of TIE Unearthed.This week I sit down with Dr. Narath Carlile, a Harvard-trained physician, clinical informatician and systems thinker whose work is redefining how we live, work, and care.Born in South Africa, shaped by Canada, and working at the cutting edge of healthcare innovation, Narath’s story is one of constant evolution. After years inside medical systems that rewarded output over empathy, he asked a radical question: What if we designed systems to support human flourishing, not just survival?What followed was MakeTimeFlow Labs, a high-performance AI-supported platform that integrates neuroscience, emotional intelligence, and purpose-driven productivity to help people reclaim time, energy, and joy.In this conversation, we explore:• Why so many high performers are burnt out, and how we fix the system, not just the symptoms• What philosophy and emotional intelligence have to do with high-scale, high-touch healthcare• How systems rooted in truth, justice, and fairness can transform the future of global wellbeing• And how leaders can shift from performance at all costs, to performance with integrity, balance, and careWe also unpack the true cost of misaligned values in professional life.Why a poverty mindset in systems (even wealthy ones) leads to emotional and ethical burnout.And how we can raise children, and build businesses, that measure worth through meaning, not just metrics.This is a rich, wide-ranging episode that pulls together everything from universal healthcare and burnout to parenting, purpose, and what it really means to live a fulfilled life.If you’ve ever felt like the metrics of modern success don’t quite match your inner compass, this one’s for you.I’m off on holiday at the end of next week. But we’ll be back again in August for more TIE Unearthed. Until then! 👉 In the mean time, don’t forget to share your thoughts on the episode, leave a review, and subscribe!If you'd like to stay updated on future episodes and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter ⁠⁠[⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠]. If you would like to order my international bestselling book Return on Humanity: Leadership lessons from all corners of the earth, you can do that ⁠⁠⁠[⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠]. To learn more about MakeTimeFlow Labs, their tools development arm, and get  6 weeks of pro click here: ⁠https://my.maketimeflow.com/philippaTo learn more about their Cognitive High Performance Solutions, their training and coaching arm, click here: https://www.cognitivehighperformance.com

What if we’ve been asking the wrong questions about AI?What if it’s not just about what AI can do, but instead who we become in relationship with it?What if the real challenge isn’t technological, but moral, ecological, and civilisational?Welcome to Episode 109 of TIE Unearthed.This week I’m joined by Caroline Chubb Calderon, futurist, humanist, and one of the Top 100 Brilliant Women in AI Ethics. She’s the founder of Hello Humanity, a bold futures practice reimagining the role of AI in a flourishing world.Caroline doesn’t just talk about AI ethics. She challenges us to shift our entire worldview; from extraction to regeneration, from automation to imagination, from machine alignment to Life alignment.In this conversation, we explore:🧭 Why regenerative economics, not efficiency at all costs, may be our only sustainable path forward🌱 What it means to align AI with the principles of life, and the danger if we don’t💡 The power of moral imagination and why it’s the leadership skill of our time🧬 How awe, curiosity, and deep human intelligence are our greatest assets in the age of intelligent machines🌍 Why we must dream differently, and how a small, committed group really can tip the systemWe also talk about AGI, ASI, digital relationships, and why the real question isn’t what these technologies can do for us, but instead who we are becoming as we live alongside them.As Caroline reminds us: if we don’t design AI intentionally in service to Life… it will be unintentionally designed against it.This one’s not just for the technologists. It’s for anyone who cares about the future of humanity, and the role we each have to play in shaping it.So grab that favourite beverage, or put on those running shoes, and here is Caroline. 👉 Don’t forget to share your thoughts on the episode, leave a review, and subscribe!If you'd like to stay updated on future episodes and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter ⁠⁠[⁠⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠]. If you would like to order my international bestselling book Return on Humanity: Leadership lessons from all corners of the earth, you can do that ⁠⁠⁠[⁠here⁠⁠⁠⁠]. (For a limited time only, the Kindle is only 99p/99c!)🔗 Learn more about Caroline’s work at: https://www.hellohumanity.com

What if the person at your next boardroom meeting, client lunch, or team offsite is secretly battling an addiction - yet looking like they have it all together?What if that person is you?And what if the culture you work in not only enables the behaviour, but rewards it?Welcome to Episode 108 of TIE Unearthed.This one is raw, honest, and a truth that few people publicly talk about.I’m joined by Tabbin Almond; coach, speaker, author, podcast host - and a former advertising exec who lived a double life. On the outside, polished, driven, and successful. On the inside, quietly struggling with alcohol addiction.In this candid and powerful conversation, Tabbin opens up about:✨ How casual drinking evolved into a dangerous habit✨ The shame and silence that kept her stuck✨ Her first attempt at change - through hypnotherapy - and why it eventually wasn’t enough✨ The turning point - and support resource - that finally helped her break freeWe hear about the science behind addiction, the myths we’ve absorbed about alcohol (and just assumed as truths), and the role of childhood trauma.And we also dig into the uncomfortable realities about alcohol culture in the workplace; especially in high-performing industries like advertising, law, media and finance. What are the hidden costs? Who’s being excluded? And what does this mean for inclusion, performance, and wellbeing?But this isn’t a story of defeat. It’s a story of freedom.Tabbin didn’t just find her way out, she now helps others do the same. Her tools, insights and compassion light a new path forward for anyone ready to question their relationship with alcohol, or support someone they love who might be struggling.Whether you drink or don’t, whether you lead teams or simply work within one, this episode will leave you thinking differently.So grab that favourite beverage, or put on those running shoes, and here is Tabbin. 👉 Don’t forget to share your thoughts on the episode, leave a review, and subscribe!If you'd like to stay updated on future episodes and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter ⁠⁠[⁠here⁠⁠⁠]. If you would like to order my international bestselling book Return on Humanity: Leadership lessons from all corners of the earth, you can do that ⁠⁠⁠[here⁠⁠⁠]. To access further resources, tools, and Tabbin’s book check out: bottlinguptrouble.comLearn more about how to get help if you're struggling with alcohol or know someone that is at: thisnakedmind.com

What if the very system we trust to build our future is the reason we feel so lost today?What if the next revolution in business isn't about growth or profit, but instead about remembering what it means to be human?What if marketing could save capitalism?Welcome to episode 107 of TIE Unearthed, where I sit down with the extraordinary Elsie Maio; Wall Street veteran, McKinsey alum, and creator of the SoulBranding℠ System. For decades, Elsie has helped top executives navigate billion-dollar decisions with one eye on the market and the other on humanity.But this episode is about much more than business.It’s about myths. Those we’ve inherited and the ones we urgently need to write.It’s about the soul of leadership, the power of asking beautiful questions, and the deep systems work required to shift from ego-driven capitalism to inclusive wellbeing.In our conversation, we cover:🔸 Elsie's journey, from reading Greek mythology at age 9 to counseling Fortune 50 boardrooms in the ‘80s🔸 Her time at McKinsey, where she first saw how power really works, and who gets to wield it🔸 The rise of corporate identity and purpose before it was cool🔸 What it meant to be one of the few women senior executives in corporate America back then, and how it shaped her🔸 The cracks in our institutions and the myth of the American DreamWe also confront what’s at stake if we keep feeding the beast of “casino capitalism”, especially with AI now behind the wheel.Elsie brings in the two faced Roman god Janus - looking both backward and forward - as a powerful metaphor for this pivotal moment in history.And she leaves us with a question. One that just might be the most important question we can ask ourselves today.Because, as Elsie says, beautiful questions lead to beautiful minds. And when those minds are activated inside the right systems - systems that honour our shared humanity - they have the power to change everything.👉 Don’t forget to share your thoughts on the episode, leave a review, and subscribe!If you'd like to stay updated on future episodes and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter ⁠⁠[⁠here⁠⁠⁠]. If you would like to order my international bestselling book Return on Humanity: Leadership lessons from all corners of the earth, you can do that ⁠⁠⁠[here⁠⁠⁠]. 🌐 Learn more about Elsie and the SoulBranding℠ System: https://www.soulbranding.comCheck out beautiful questions create beautiful minds by John O’Donohue, Irish poet and philosopher here: https://www.johnodonohue.com/

What does it look like when a democracy slowly starts to unravel?It's not overnight and not with tanks in the streets.But instead piece by piece; when institutions are quietly dismantled, civic norms are eroded, and unchecked power begins to take root.And more importantly - what can we do about it?This week on TIE Unearthed, I speak with my long-time friend Christina Hartman - powerhouse in the world of democracy, both at home in the U.S. and internationally. She’s worked with the likes of Freedom House and the National Democratic Institute, led multi-million dollar international programs, run for Congress and for Pennsylvania Auditor General, and raised millions for nonprofits.But today, she brings a warning: democracy in one of the world’s most influential nations is under threat, and many don’t even realise how far it’s already gone.In this conversation, we explore: 🔹 Christina’s incredible journey from international development to American politics🔹 The slow path to authoritarianism and how it really happens🔹 Why voters are disillusioned, and what it’ll take to rebuild trust🔹 The power of community, civic engagement, and what you can do to make democracy deliver.We talk about Project 2025, April’s protests, the media’s role, the idea of seeding power, and the terrifying vacuum left when America steps back from global leadership.This episode is a wake-up call. But it’s also a rallying cry.Because if we want systems that serve people - not power - we have to show up. Together.🎧 Tune in now to episode 106 of TIE Unearthed for an insight to what is happening right now in the US, and what we can all do about it.👉 Don’t forget to share your thoughts on the episode, leave a review, and subscribe!If you'd like to stay updated on future episodes and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter ⁠⁠[⁠here⁠⁠⁠]. If you would like to order my international bestselling book Return on Humanity: Leadership lessons from all corners of the earth, you can do that ⁠⁠⁠[here⁠⁠⁠].

What do you do when the storm hits?Do you cling to what was—or boldly redefine what could be?Caspar Craven knows what it means to navigate the unknown.He’s sailed around the world. Twice. Once in a gruelling yacht race as team leader. And again—just a few years later—with his wife and three young kids under 10.But he’s not just an adventurer. He worked at KPMG, is also a serial entrepreneur, a former CFO, and a leading voice on what it really takes to achieve Big Bold Goals—not through spreadsheets and pressure, but through people, purpose, and the power of bold conversations.Welcome to episode 105 of TIE Unearthed.In this episode, Caspar joins me to talk about the deeply human side of leadership.We explore how constraints—whether in the middle of the ocean or in the boardroom—unlock creativity and resilience. Why real leadership means getting out of the comfort zone and going deep. And how our identity, fear of failure, and unwillingness to have uncomfortable conversations are often the biggest barriers to change.Caspar shares what happened when he led a team with a “drive hard, win fast” approach—and how it ended in burnout and dysfunction. And he explains why it’s not enough to aim for results—you need to create a culture where people feel valued, understood, and safe to contribute.We talk emotions. Vision. Reinvention. AI. And how the best leaders aren’t afraid to rethink the rules—and lead from a place of depth, not just direction.So if you have ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure of how to lead when the path isn’t clear, this one is for you.👉 Tune in, and ask yourself:What bold conversation are you avoiding?And what might be possible if you had it?🎧 So grab that favourite beverage, or throw on those running shoes, and get inspired by Caspar.👉 Don’t forget to share your thoughts on the episode, leave a review, and subscribe!If you'd like to stay updated on future episodes and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter ⁠⁠[⁠here⁠⁠⁠]. If you would like to order my international bestselling book Return on Humanity: Leadership lessons from all corners of the earth, you can do that ⁠⁠⁠[here⁠⁠⁠]. If you'd like to learn more about Caspar, check out his site [here]

AI is changing everything. But are we losing something essential in the process?Imagine this: You ask a chatbot how its weekend was. It responds in a way that feels human—but does it really understand?Now, picture a doctor second-guessing their diagnosis. One moment, it's X. Then maybe it's Y. Then back to X again. That’s what AI is like right now—impressive, yes, but also flawed, inconsistent, and not always reliable.Welcome to episode 104 of TIE Unearthed. Today I’m joined by the brilliant Nathalie Nahai—bestselling author, keynote speaker, artist, psychologist, and advisor whose expertise lies at the intersection of psychology, technology, and human behaviour. Together we dive into the profound impact AI is having on our creativity, decision-making, and even our sense of connection.In this episode we explore:🔹 The dangers of synthetic intimacy—when AI mimics human empathy but lacks a moral compass🔹 The cognitive risks of outsourcing too much thinking to AI—are we weakening our own abilities?🔹 How we can harness AI’s potential without losing what makes us human🔹 The skills we need to thrive—critical thinking, resilience, creativity—to thrive in an AI-driven worldAI can be a powerful tool, but it’s humans who bring imagination, intuition, and meaning to the table.If you’re wondering how to navigate this fast-changing world while staying true to what makes us us—this episode is for you.So throw on those running shoes or grab that favourite beverage, and here is Nathalie.👉 Don’t forget to share your thoughts on the episode, leave a review, and subscribe!If you'd like to stay updated on future episodes and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter ⁠⁠[⁠here⁠⁠⁠]. If you would like to order my international bestselling book Return on Humanity: Leadership lessons from all corners of the earth, you can do that ⁠⁠⁠[here⁠⁠⁠]. Check out Nathalie’s resources mentioned in the episode here: https://www.nathalienahai.com/ai-resources/Also, check out Nathalie's websites here:Salons: https://www.ffsalons.com/Art: https://www.nathalienahai.art/Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/in-conversation-with-nathalie-nahai/id1387510537

"We don’t have time to be kind—we need to make money."This is what Raphael Cohen heard when he first started teaching leadership.Fast forward, and he’s now proving the opposite: If you want profitability, you need engagement. And if you want engagement, you need fairness and kindness. In fact, engaged teams can boost performance by 35%.So why are so many leaders still getting it wrong?That’s exactly what we dive into in this episode of TIE Unearthed.Raphael is a serial entrepreneur, professor, business angel, and expert in executive education. He taught entrepreneurship at the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology and later created the first MBA in entrepreneurship in Switzerland. His focus is teaching leaders how to spot opportunities, drive innovation, and create high-performing teams.We explore:💡 The biggest blocker of innovation (hint: it’s not a lack of ideas)💡 The key to seizing the right opportunities—and avoiding the wrong ones💡 Why psychological safety is essential for engagement💡 Two human skills that AI will never replace💡 How his decision tree of critical questions became an ISO standard for managing ideasAnd of course, we talk about the power of being fair and caring for others in leadership—not as a feel-good ideal, but as a business necessity.If you’re a leader (or an aspiring one), this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.👉 Don’t forget to share your thoughts on the episode, leave a review, and subscribe!If you'd like to stay updated on future episodes and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter ⁠⁠[⁠here⁠⁠⁠]. If you would like to order my international bestselling book Return on Humanity: Leadership lessons from all corners of the earth, you can do that ⁠⁠⁠[here⁠⁠⁠]. 🔗 Check out Raphael’s free engagement tool here: [EazyMirror.com] 🔗 Check out IpOp Tools here: [https://ipoptools.com]

🚀 What does it take to navigate high-stakes moments in leadership and emerge stronger, more impactful, and truly aligned with your values?Some leaders wait for the right moment. Others create it.In this episode of TIE Unearthed, I’m joined by the brilliant Sally Henderson—an in-demand high-stakes leadership mentor who helps senior executives and C-suite leaders thrive in moments of challenge, complexity, and opportunity.Sally’s journey is as bold as her approach. A proud Northerner with a straight-talking, no-fluff philosophy, she started in recruitment, building a successful agency from the ground up. But when she found herself coaching leaders through transitions, only to see them flounder post-recruitment, she realized where she could make the biggest impact. So, she took the leap, left the security of her business behind, and built her own global high-stakes leadership practice.Now, through her REAL Method™, Sally equips leaders with the fundamental principles they need to master how they lead—not just what they do. And in this conversation, we dive deep into:✅ The moment she realized she was stuck—and the unconventional way she broke free✅ Why even the most senior leaders struggle to define their role—and how to fix it✅ A simple brain hack to make your goals a reality✅ The five crucial steps to set yourself up for success in leadershipThis episode is packed with insight, real talk, and game-changing strategies for anyone navigating leadership in uncertain times.So, grab your favourite beverage or hit play on your next run—you won’t want to miss this one. 🎧👉 Don’t forget to share your thoughts on the episode, leave a review, and subscribe!If you'd like to stay updated on future episodes and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter ⁠⁠[⁠here⁠⁠⁠]. If you would like to order my international bestselling book Return on Humanity: Leadership lessons from all corners of the earth, you can do that ⁠⁠⁠[here⁠⁠⁠].

What if everything you thought you needed to succeed stability, certainty, control—was actually holding you back? In today’s world, the leaders who thrive aren’t the ones who stick to the plan; they’re the ones who know how to adapt, inspire, and drive real change. In this episode, I sit down with Fernanda Lopes Larsen, Executive Vice President at Yara International, a global leader in sustainable agriculture solutions, to explore what leadership truly means when the stakes are high, and uncertainty is the only constant. Born and raised in Brazil, Fernanda’s journey is one of resilience, ambition, and an unrelenting commitment to breaking barriers. From FMCG to agribusiness, from Brazil to Austria to Singapore—her path wasn’t planned, but it was driven by a refusal to settle for what was expected. And that mindset has served her well. Leading a vast region across Africa, Asia, and Oceania, she has had to navigate everything from global pandemics to political upheaval—all while championing diversity, equity, and inclusion as a business imperative, not a 'nice to have.' We talk about: 🔹 Why diversity isn’t just morally right—it’s critical for business success. 🔹 How the murder of George Floyd catalysed one of Scandinavia’s only Black talent programs. 🔹 The leadership traits that matter most in times of crisis—agility, curiosity, and courage. 🔹 Why leaders must be willing to stand alone, have tough conversations, and push forward even when change isn’t yet profitable. As we enter a world where DEI mandates are being questioned and the challenges of leadership are greater than ever, this conversation is essential listening. And begs the question: are we cultivating the kind of leaders we need for the future? So, throw on those running shoes or grab that favourite beverage, and let’s get stuck in. 🎧 👉 Don’t forget to share your thoughts on the episode, leave a review, and subscribe! If you'd like to stay updated on future episodes and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter ⁠⁠[here⁠⁠]. If you would like to order my international best selling book Return on Humanity: Leadership lessons from all corners of the earth, you can do that ⁠⁠[here⁠⁠].

What happens when the interviewer becomes the interviewee? To celebrate the 100th episode of TIE Unearthed, the tables have turned! In this special milestone episode, Philippa is joined by her friend Juliana Xavier, who takes the lead in a heartfelt and fascinating conversation about Philippa’s extraordinary journey—from her upbringing across South Africa, Canada, Thailand, UK, and Brazil, to founding TIE.   Philippa reflects on her family’s profound influence, including her father’s work as a specialist anesthesiologist and her uncle’s role as one of Nelson Mandela’s physicians. While her family focused on helping people through medicine, Philippa charted her own path, first in advertising and later as the founder of TIE, driven by a passion for helping professionals break out of their monotonous routines and develop skills that create a more sustainable private sector—and a better world.   But that’s not all—Juliana has gathered reflections and questions from Philippa’s friends, colleagues, and participants in TIE’s transformative programs, including former podcast guests. Their insights and memories add a rich, personal dimension to this milestone celebration.   ✨ What you’ll discover in this conversation: The pivotal moments that shaped Philippa’s purpose-driven career and life. The power of stepping out of your comfort zone to embrace change and innovation. How cross-sector collaboration can spark global solutions. Philippa’s reflections on resilience, growth, and what success truly means. Heartwarming and inspiring tributes from those who know her best.   This episode is packed with wisdom, inspiration, and heartfelt stories that celebrate 100 episodes of making a difference—and the incredible woman at the heart of it all. So, grab a cuppa or take us along on your walk, and get ready to meet the person behind the mic like never before. 🎧 👉 Don’t forget to share your thoughts, leave a review, and subscribe! Here’s to 100 episodes of TIE Unearthed—and to many more. 🥂

What if work didn’t feel like… work? Imagine a workday that energises you instead of draining you. A career where intention, joy, and purpose lead the way. In this week’s episode of TIE Unearthed, I’m joined by the brilliant Beth Stallwood—coach, author, and founder of Create WorkJoy—to dive into how to transform your relationship with work.   From her childhood days starring in a Heinz ketchup commercial (yes, really!) to creating a purpose-driven business, Beth’s journey is both inspiring and relatable. In this conversation, she shares her wisdom and practical tools to help you: ✨ Infuse joy into your work through small, actionable steps—no perfection required. ✨ Shift from negativity to intentionality and transform your mindset. ✨ Reflect on where you are, where you want to be, and how to bridge the gap. ✨ Escape chronic WorkGloom using Beth’s powerful 3 P’s framework.   This isn’t just about work—it’s about living your life with intention, unlocking progress over perfection, and reclaiming joy in what you do.   Grab your favorite beverage or take us along on your walk, and let’s dive into WorkJoy together. 🎧 👉 Don’t forget to share your thoughts on the episode, leave a review, and subscribe! If you'd like to stay updated on future episodes and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter ⁠⁠[here⁠⁠]. If you would like to order Return on Humanity: Leadership lessons from all corners of the earth, you can do that ⁠⁠[here⁠⁠].

What does it take to lead in a world where connection and belonging are shifting before our eyes? How do leaders need to adapt to a workforce that’s increasingly hybrid, and where the next generation of talent expects so much more? I’m thrilled to reconnect with Susy Martins, a friend from university and an inspiring leader with a career that has spanned over 20 countries and some of the biggest names in business, from GE to Clearco. Susy’s journey from corporate powerhouses to founding her own HR consultancy is packed with valuable insights for today’s evolving workplace. Together, we explore Susy’s transition from leading large teams with million-dollar budgets to building her own business. We talk about the new paradigm of “conscious unbossing” and how it’s shaping future leadership. She shares eye-opening stats on connection and belonging in remote work—and why it’s a wake-up call for leaders. We hear how organizational network mapping is revealing hidden insights about engagement. And then the shifts in leadership the next generation demands—and how we can adapt. And Susy shares her key to success and a simple yet transformative framework that’s shaped her career. If you want to foster a more connected, engaged, and agile workforce, this episode is for you. Grab your favourite drink, lace up those running shoes, and here is Susy! 👉 Don’t forget to share your thoughts on the episode, leave a review, and subscribe! If you'd like to stay updated on future episodes and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter ⁠⁠[here⁠⁠]. If you would like to order Return on Humanity: Leadership lessons from all corners of the earth, you can do that ⁠⁠here⁠⁠.

How does connecting with the real world connect us to our unconscious mind? Why is learning to harness our intuition considered one of the greatest superpowers at our disposal? And in what way is intuition both scientifically proven and deeply spiritual? Today, we’re exploring the hidden power of intuition—a concept often regarded as mysterious or “woo-woo,” yet grounded in a wisdom that transcends the rational. My guest, Hrund Gunnsteinsdóttir, is an Icelandic author, filmmaker, and leading voice in sustainability who has shaped her life and career across diverse fields, sparking change through her unique blend of insights. Hrund’s journey is nothing short of remarkable. From community-driven post-conflict reconstruction work in Kosovo to confronting burnout in the UN, she has navigated intense experiences that ultimately led her to embrace intuition and purposeful connection as guiding forces. Today, she’ll share practical ways to tap into your own intuition—and why sometimes we need to tune into a different rhythm to find our way forward. By the end of this episode, you’ll understand why intuition is a powerful tool for navigating our fast-paced, complex world. If you’ve ever wondered how intuition fits into our modern, data-driven lives or how it might be the secret to both personal fulfilment and groundbreaking innovation, this episode is for you. So, wherever you are, let’s delve into this fascinating conversation with Hrund and uncover the transformative power of intuition. 👉 Don’t forget to share your thoughts on the episode, leave a review, and subscribe! If you'd like to stay updated on future episodes and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter ⁠⁠[here⁠⁠]. If you would like to order Return on Humanity: Leadership lessons from all corners of the earth, you can do that ⁠⁠[here⁠⁠]. And to reach out to Hrund, you can find her here: Website - www.hrundgunnsteinsdottir.com InnSæi with Hrund Gunnsteinsdóttir - Newsletter https://substack.com/@hrund Linkedin www.linkedin.com/in/hrundgunnsteinsdottir And here is Hrund's TED talk - go.ted.com/hrundgunnsteinsdottir

For most of us, AI became an everyday reality when ChatGPT hit the scene in November 2022. But Joe Fennell, my guest on this week’s TIE Unearthed podcast, has been wrestling with AI’s challenges and opportunities long before that. In today's episode we dive deep into AI ethics, exploring questions like: Can AI be a force for good? How do we prevent it from widening global inequalities? And what guardrails are crucial to keep our world safe? Joe’s journey began when he realised that AI was going to transform the future—he even changed career plans from law to philosophy of AI and ethics. Now, he’s just graduated from the University of Cambridge’s first-ever Mphil cohort studying the 'Ethics of AI, Data, and Algorithms.' We talk about everything from AI's role in global power dynamics, to fuzzy robots helping kids learn, and even how AI might reshape healthcare. Plus, we dig into Joe's work with the UN Mission in Kosovo, using AI to empower young people and keep them safe from scams and threats in the digital world. This is one of the most thought-provoking conversations I’ve had. If you're curious about how AI can be used as a social catalyst, how it might impact society at large—or what you should specifically be worried about—this episode is for you. 🎧 Tune in now to Episode 96 of TIE Unearthed. If you’d like to get in touch with Joe, you can find him here [email protected] or here joefennell.com 👉 Don’t forget to share your thoughts on the episode, leave a review, and subscribe! If you'd like to stay updated on future episodes and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter ⁠⁠[here⁠⁠]. If you would like to order Return on Humanity: Leadership lessons from all corners of the earth, you can do that [⁠⁠here⁠⁠.]

What does it mean to align purpose with business, and why is artisanal mining key to a sustainable future? In today’s TIE Unearthed episode, we’re joined by Rob Karpati, a leader whose impressive career in global finance took a purposeful turn toward driving social impact. As a partner at The Blended Capital Group, Rob is on a mission to reshape artisanal mining—an industry that plays a critical role in the global energy transition. We’ll explore how artisanal mining, which accounts for 20% of the world’s gold and significant portions of essential minerals, can be formalised to improve not just environmental outcomes, but also the dignity and livelihoods of millions in underdeveloped regions. Rob takes us through the collaborative opportunities between artisanal miners and larger industries, the potential for building trust with communities, and why professionalizing this sector is the future of sustainable business. From human rights to climate change, Rob reminds us that business is, at its core, about people. He shares how his own journey from corporate finance to championing responsible mining was driven by the belief that creating social value isn’t charity—it’s a competitive advantage. Tune in for a deep dive into the future of mining, the importance of stakeholder collaboration, and why real impact starts with human connection. 👉 Don’t forget to share your thoughts on the episode, leave a review, and subscribe! If you'd like to stay updated on future episodes and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter ⁠⁠here⁠⁠. If you would like to order Return on Humanity: Leadership lessons from all corners of the earth, you can do that ⁠⁠here⁠⁠.

Meritocracy would be a nice idea, but there is no evidence that leadership selection is meritocratic. We live in a world where men succeed because of their incompetence, and women fail because of their competence. So, what does progress look like? It is not about making it easy for competent women to succeed. Instead, progress is making it harder for incompetent men to succeed in the first place. If you would like to understand how the word authenticity has been weaponised in mainstream discussions. Why you should not be yourself. And the reason gender diversity in business isn’t for the benefit of women – then you really do need to listen to this episode with Dr Tomas Chamorro-Premuzic. Tomas is the Chief Innovation Officer at ManpowerGroup, Professor of Business Psychology at University College London and Columbia University, co-founder of deepersignals.com, and an associate at Harvard’s Entrepreneurial Finance Lab. And he is the author of 12 books – which includes Why Do So Many Incompetent Men Become Leaders? (and How to Fix It). This is a conversation that turns so much conventional thinking on its head. My favourite type of conversation! So if you’re keen to understand how not to lead to the economic decline of your company, this thinking will probably be helpful. So throw on those running shoes or find that favourite beverage, and here is Tomas. If you’d like to find out more about Tomas’ books and check out his TED talk, you can here: 👉 Don’t forget to share your thoughts on the episode, leave a review, and subscribe! If you'd like to stay updated on future episodes and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter ⁠⁠[here⁠⁠]. If you would like to order Return on Humanity: Leadership lessons from all corners of the earth, you can do that [⁠⁠here]⁠⁠.

Ever wondered about the unseen struggles that young girls face around the world when it comes to menstruation, especially in remote areas? 🌍 In this eye-opening episode of TIE Unearthed, I sit down with Sia Towo, the Managing Director of Femme International in Tanzania, to delve deep into the challenges around culture and periods. Sia, with nearly eight years of experience working on grassroots initiatives across East Africa, sheds light on the harsh realities that many young girls endure due to lack of education and cultural stigmas surrounding menstruation. From the remote villages where girls are left uninformed about puberty, to the heartbreaking truth of young girls being forced into early marriage simply because they've started menstruating, Sia paints a vivid picture of the challenges they face. We discuss how these deeply ingrained cultural practices need to be rethought, especially when they infringe upon basic human rights. But it’s not just about the challenges—Sia shares stories of resilience and progress, highlighting the tangible impact that education and access to menstrual products can have on a girl’s life. And then, what is a crucial part of the solution to change. It’s not what you would expect. So, whether you’re commuting, sipping your morning coffee, or winding down for the day, tune in to hear Sia’s powerful insights and learn how we can all play a part in breaking down these barriers. 👉 Don’t forget to share your thoughts on the episode, leave a review, and subscribe! If you'd like to stay updated on future episodes and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter ⁠⁠here. If you would like to order Return on Humanity: Leadership lessons from all corners of the earth, you can do that ⁠⁠here⁠⁠. And if you would like to learn more about Femme International, click here.

We know people-first companies are more competitive. BUT, for that to be possible, we need the L&D bods to be confident, have a voice, and have a place at the table. This is the KEY to ensure that the culture of companies is heading in the right direction. So, who is getting the L&D people ready for the C-suit conversations? 🤔 Today I’m speaking with my friend Cathy Hoy, a seasoned learning leader with over two decades of experience in Learning and Organisational Development. After working for big corporates like Tesco, Coke, and Expedia, Cathy co-founded and now runs CLO100, which focuses on developing those who develop others. CLO100 provides Community Membership and the Learning Leaders Programme, a programme dedicated to the development of L&D leaders, equipping them with the tools and knowledge they need to create high-performing learning organisations. 🏆 In this episode Cathy highlights the power of learning from failures, creating safe communities for support, and the importance of well-being in the workplace. Her experience in transforming the culture of a 500k-strong workforce at Tesco offers incredible insights into making behavioural changes part of an organization’s DNA. And don’t miss her tips on combatting low trust, high absenteeism, and disengagement in today’s business world. So throw on those running shoes, or grab that favourite beverage, and here is my friend Cathy. Please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe. If you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter ⁠here⁠. If you would like to order Return on Humanity: Leadership lessons from all corners of the earth, you can do that ⁠here⁠. If you’d like to check out CLO100, the home of learning leaders, you can here. And to watch Cathy Hoy's recommended TED Talk (mentioned in the episode) you can here: The Happy Secret to Better Work by Shawn Achor

I love mining companies – said no one, ever. This is a problem, right? These essential minerals have a critical role in the energy transition; but we don’t want them mined. And few people, as a result of this negative image, want to go into the industry. How is it ever going to evolve and be more sustainable? This is the conundrum we are talking about on today’s episode of TIE Unearthed. I am joined by Dr. Haydon Mort, a British Earth Scientist with over 15 years of research and lecturing experience, and the visionary founder of Geologize Ltd. With a PhD from Switzerland and a post-doc from the Netherlands, Haydon leads a globally acclaimed training program that reaches over 200,000 scientists. In this episode, Haydon emphasises the critical role of effective communication in the geosciences, underscoring how humanity and empathy can drive understanding and responsible behaviour in our increasingly interconnected world. We explore how his deep dive into neurology led to innovative teaching methods, making his university lectures wildly popular. And now, as a trainer for geoscientists and engineers, why he champions the integration of empathy and psychological insights to engage the public effectively. So, throw on those running shoes or find that favourite beverage, and join us as we uncover how personal journeys shape professional paths and the transformative power of diverse perspectives in science and beyond. Please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe.   If you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter ⁠here⁠. If you would like to order Return on Humanity: Leadership lessons from all corners of the earth, you can do that ⁠here⁠. Keen to find out more about Haydon and his work? You can find the Geologize website here: And email haydon here: [email protected]

Welcome to Episode 90 of the TIE Unearthed podcast! Today, I’m thrilled to feature Oliver Banks, an expert consultant who works with senior leaders to transform retail and consumer-facing businesses. Ollie's career began with designing intricate systems in engineering, driven by a childhood curiosity for how things work. Seeking a more dynamic and people-focused role, he pivoted to retail with Tesco, the UK's largest supermarket. Now, as a consultant, he advises on navigating transformation and the ever-evolving world of retail. In this episode, we explore what true transformation means and why a human-centric approach is crucial in retail. Ollie shares his thoughts on the industry’s responsibility to cultivate future leaders, hybrid working, and the delicate decisions of company policies when considering variables such collaboration, trust, and mental health. We also discuss leadership, engagement, and the power of courage, with Ollie reading an excerpt from his book. This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom and practical advice for anyone interested in transformation and leadership. Join us as we uncover the mosaic of Oliver Banks' career and the invaluable lessons he's learned along the way. Let's dive in! Please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe. If you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter ⁠here⁠. If you would like to order Return on Humanity: Leadership lessons from all corners of the earth, you can do that ⁠here⁠. If you would like to order Driving Retail Transformation, you can do that here.

Today I welcome Milla Chaplin Rae from Mumbai, who shares her transformative journey and the incredible experiences that have shaped her life and career. Listen as we explore her profound experience with the TIE Leadership program, and how it became the catalyst for her next life chapter and her compelling book. Milla opens up about the emotional depths of her time in Myanmar during the military coup, the whirlwind of life abroad, and how these experiences reignited her passion for writing. We also discuss the realities of reverse culture shock, the journey of writing her book Not Quite to Plan amidst its traumatic content, and the universal lessons learned through immersive experiences. Milla provides practical advice for navigating difficult moments, offers a heartfelt glimpse into the often unspoken aspects of parenting, and reveals the magic formula of grit that played a crucial role in her story. Tune in for insights on finding fulfilment and purpose in corporate roles, the power of adaptability, and a sneak peek into her second book. Then we wrap up with the invaluable wisdom of Jon Steel: "If the role you’re in doesn’t leave you or your company a little nervous, you’re not pushing yourself hard enough." Expect profound reflections, inspiring advice, and a celebration of resilience and creativity. So throw on those running shoes, or grab that favourite beverage, and here is Milla. Please don't forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe. If you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter here. If you would like to order my book Return on Humanity: Leadership lessons from all corners of the earth, you can do that here. And if you would like to order Not Quite to Plan, you can do that here. And you can follow Milla on instagram here: millarae_writes.

Many of us wrestle with self-doubt. Whether it leaves us exhausted by over-preparing for things, or feeling frustrated and unfulfilled because it's holding us back. Join me on this episode of TIE Unearthed as I engage in a conversation with Julie Smith, the bestselling author of 'Coach Yourself Confident.' Julie's journey from corporate life at Mars and PepsiCo to founding Talent Sprout is truly inspiring. Throughout our discussion, we delve into the motivations behind Julie's focus on confidence in her book, exploring its complexities and how it evolves. We also uncover the often-overlooked pitfalls of over-preparation and overwork driven by self-doubt. Julie generously shares invaluable tips for mastering presentations, navigating the "self-doubt tax”, as she calls it, and then vividly depicts her own journey of writing the book. As we wrap up, Julie leaves us with a poignant quote on confidence saboteurs, emphasising the importance of embracing authenticity and staying true to ourselves. Expect insightful reflections, practical advice and some stories to bring all of this to life. So throw on those running shoes, or grab that favourite beverage, and here is Julie. Please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe. If you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter ⁠here⁠. If you would like to order Return on Humanity: Leadership lessons from all corners of the earth, you can do that ⁠here⁠. And if you would like to order Coach Yourself Confident, you can do that here.

Welcome to today's episode where we embark on a journey with Pietra Mello-Pittman MBE, tracing her extraordinary path from the hallowed halls of the Royal Ballet School in London to the global stage of the Royal Ballet. But that's just the beginning. Get ready for a backstage pass into the mesmerising world of "Inala" – the Zulu Ballet, a Grammy Nominated sensation co-created by Pietra and her visionary partner, Ella Spira. From the glittering lights of the West End to standing ovations around the globe, their work not only captivates audiences but earns them the prestigious MBE honours. We get to hear about the grand renaissance as "Inala" returns as a permanent fixture in London's iconic West End, adorned with revolutionary designs and sets made of biodegradable materials, a testament to Pietra and Ella's unwavering commitment to pushing boundaries. Join us as we unravel the tapestry of Sisters Grimm, the creative powerhouse behind it all, dedicated to weaving tales that transcend borders and celebrate diversity. Throughout our conversation, Pietra imparts invaluable lessons on purpose, collaboration, and resilience, igniting sparks of hope and possibility. This episode is not just a conversation—it's a beacon of light, illuminating the endless possibilities when passion meets purpose. So, join us on this unforgettable journey filled with opportunity and an insight to the transformative power of art with Pietra. Please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe. If you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter ⁠here⁠. If you would like to order Philippa's book Return on Humanity: Leadership lessons from all corners of the earth, you can do that ⁠here⁠. If you’d like to know more about the Inala relaunch, click here: https://sisters-grimm.co.uk/inala-2024-west-end-relaunch/ Click here for more about Sister’s Grimm productions: https://sisters-grimm.co.uk/productions/ To learn more about UK Art in Nature click here: http://www.ukartinnature.com

In an industry often dominated by relentless pursuit of profit and growth, Coffee and TV charts a different course, prioritising a deep-seated belief in the power of nurturing a supportive, family-like environment. Since its inception, this unique company has steadfastly refused to follow the conventional path laid out by corporations driven by financial metrics, choosing instead to grow at a pace dictated by artists and creative minds. And the result? Not only being a highly sought after creative studio to work at, but also being a profitable multi-million pound b-corp business. What is their secret sauce? Today Derek Moore, CEO of Coffee and TV, tells us. We learn about their commitment to being a force for good and how they have created an electrifying atmosphere that transcends the traditional employer-employee dynamic, leading to ground-breaking creativity and innovation. So throw on those running shoes, or find that favourite beverage, and here is Derek. Please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe. If you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter here. If you would like to pre-order Return on Humanity: Leadership lessons from all corners of the earth, you can do that ⁠here⁠. Here are the ads he refers to on the podcast: https://coffeeand.tv/work/no-room-for-racism/ https://coffeeand.tv/work/spring-2024/ https://coffeeand.tv/work/meta-for-work/

Did you know that 90% of the world’s money is controlled and invested by white men? Did you also know that when women are at the table, investment returns are proven to be higher? This is a conversation that will bring to life how portfolios can predictably outperform the market. It also shines a spotlight on a truly broken system. Recognising the stark disconnect between philanthropic grant dollars and how the rest of foundation assets are invested, Ruth Shaber wanted to do things differently with the Tara Health Foundation. Their bold intention was to utilise all capital, not just grant money, towards driving their social purpose of improving the lives of women and girls. This was about being 100% mission aligned. BUT, this was just the beginning of this journey. What they discovered next was not only fascinating, but game changing. It was also the catalyst to Ruth co-writing The XX Edge: Unlocking Higher Returns and Lower Risk. Ruth Shaber is the founder and president of Tara Health Foundation, a philanthropic investment group that uses evidence-informed programs to promote women's well-being and opportunities. She is also on a mission to increase the assets managed by gender-diverse and racially-diverse teams to 33 percent by 2033. Today we hear about all of this. It's a conversation packed full of proof points, stats and solid arguments that gender-diverse teams significantly outperform the market – predictably. If you invest money – then you need to listen to this episode. What was once considered radical is now a beacon of hope for a more inclusive and equitable future. So throw on those running shoes, or grab your favourite beverage, and here is Ruth. Please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe. If you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter ⁠here If you would like to pre-order Return on Humanity: Leadership lessons from all corners of the earth, you can do that ⁠here⁠. If you would like to buy Ruth’s book The XX Edge, you can do that ⁠here⁠. For more insights into Ruth Shaber’s work and the Tara Health Foundation, you can visit their website here.

This is a story that starts with a rogue trader. And then moves to what happens when you truly empathise with the other side of an equation. Today I speak with Christian Hunt, the founder of Human Risk, a Behavioural Science led Consulting and Training Firm, specialising in the fields of Ethics and Compliance. And Author of Humanizing Rules. After Christian started to “eat his regulatory cooking” after implementing it at the financial services firm UBS, his life took an interesting turn. He started to focus entirely on people’s behaviour, on what makes them tick, and what gets them doing the things they shouldn’t, and neglect to do the things they should. In this episode we talk about Danny Boyle and the Olympics, and how his opening show was a powerful example of how to get people to do things you want them to do. Christian talks about how to get the best out of people. We hear how the airline industry can teach us a lot about compliance. And then Christian brings to life how the move from authoritarian leadership to a more empowering style of leadership, although the way forward, poses more organisational risk. There is talk of the importance of experimenting, we hear where AI fits into all of this and the importance of thinking about the overall employee experience. He then leaves us with not only his most important philosophy, but also two great songs that bring to life his thinking. I promise you – this podcast about compliance is anything but boring. Even though it is rooted in one of the most boring subjects of all time! 😊 So throw on those running shoes, or grab your favourite beverage, and here is the very entertaining Christian. Please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe. If you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter here. If you would like to pre-order Return on Humanity: Leadership lessons from all corners of the earth, you can do that here. If you would like to buy Christian’s book Human Rules, you can do that here. Here are the songs he references on the show: Higher by The Saturdays Spotify Link: "I'm doing nothing 'Cause then at least I'm doing nothing wrong" Elegantly Wasted by INXS Spotify Link:

When someone has lived around the world as a young person, what sort of job do they go into as an adult? And what happens when someone sees something that then impacts them on a visceral level? Today I speak with Lucy McCray, CEO at the Freedom Story. The Freedom Story is an organization that works to prevent child trafficking in Northern Thailand. As a child growing up, Lucy became very aware of inequality, the raw reality for people experiencing poverty, and how where someone is born can dictate one’s life path. These realisations started to shape her life’s purpose. She talks about her move to Thailand, where she started to understand what statelessness means, and the implications of someone not having citizenship in any country in the world. We hear about the real reason for people being trafficked, what prevents trafficking from happening and how to prevent abuse and exploitation from taking place. Lucy talks about pity-based marketing versus stories that are more dignified for everyone. And then we move to the shocking truth of well-known brands who have been caught having child trafficking in their supply chains. Lucy tells us about a brand-new form of trafficking, which when you hear it, will realise you are exposed to it almost daily. And then how creating unlikely partnerships is providing a powerful anti-trafficking solution. It’s fascinating. This conversation proves that together we are stronger. And by thinking out of the box and giving people agency, you can scale impact. This is a podcast rooted in hope. Showing the power of purpose. And that when you tap into human assets, anything is possible. So grab that favourite beverage or throw on those running shoes, and here is Lucy. Please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe. If you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter here. If you would like to pre-order Return on Humanity: Leadership lessons from all corners of the earth, you can do that here.

Where should we first look to find solutions to a problem? What is one of the most effective ways to unleash a person’s potential? What happens when benchmarks disappear and new normals are created? Today’s episode is going to show you just what is possible when the right conditions are created for people to thrive. Barbara Soalheiro is the founder of Mesa Company and the creator of Mesa Method. Mesa is a team based work system designed to solve complex challenges by unleashing human potential to process more and execute faster. We talk about the power of building a team based on having every bit of knowledge and skill needed to solve a specific problem. And then how time constraints being at the core of the team design make it possible for people to come up with extraordinary, paradigm changing, tangible solutions. Barbara’s company, Mesa, is all about creating a new timespace where solutions to big problems are built. She tell us how it works, what's they've done, and why it's so powerful. We talk about the importance of working towards an objective that people connect to. Why people need to work at a place where they feel they are always learning, as well as truly accomplishing something, for them to blossom. And Barbara explains her vendetta against collaboration. As she says, “the more you focus on it, the less you get of it”. This is all about real solutions. Changing paradigms. And not following any predesigned formulas. The energy is electric on this episode, and I certainly left the conversation feeling ever more inspired to just get things done. I hope you feel that too. So grab that favourite beverage or throw on those running shoes, and here is Barbara. Please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe. To learn more about Mesa Company click here. If you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter here. If you would like to pre-order Return on Humanity: Leadership lessons from all corners of the earth, you can do that here. If you would like to learn more about TIE Leadership, check out our site here.

What is the power of giving someone a taste of possibility?  How has the advertising industry been incentivised to make ads that shatter gender stereotypes? And why is it so important to see your life and the world from a different perspective? Today I talk with my friend Senta Slingerland, who used to be the Director of Brand Strategy at the Cannes Lions International Festival of Creativity, is the creator of See It Be It, a programme for the advancement of female creative leaders, and initiator of Cannes Chimera, a collaboration with the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation to help NGOs receive creative mentorship. We hear about her time with the Brazilian innovation company Mesa that solves big problems for companies such as Google, Coca-Cola and Samsung in only 5 days by putting big thinkers around a table who have the relevant skills and knowledge to find powerful solutions to things.  She tells us of the time she worked with a cyborg – and how it got her seeing the world differently.  And she talks of the work she’s doing as co-founder of FALA, a company that trades in purposeful inspiration and counts Coca-Cola, Yara International, Bloomberg, Accenture Song and Twitch as its clients. Senta’s career has been focused on pushing people to see themselves and their jobs differently, and today’s conversation gets us seeing the power of changing perspectives. We talk about ambition and what it means to different generations.  She tells us what 83% of millennial and Gen Z’s admire in their bosses.  And we hear about what happens when we give something language. After listening to today’s episode you will feel as though you have taken your mind for a walk. So grab that favourite beverage or throw on those running shoes, and here is Senta.  And please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe. If you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter here.   If you would like to pre-order Return on Humanity: Leadership lessons from all corners of the earth, you can do that here.

What is the role of business in society? How can people’s perception with that then impact their experience at work?  How does it then impact how a business shows up when it relates to all of its stakeholders and its long-term success? Today we do a deep dive into all of this with Sarah Gillard, using examples from her 27-year career in fast-paced commercial environments at some of the UK’s largest retail companies.  In this milestone episode, Sarah Gillard talks about her time as Director of Purpose and Special Projects at the John Lewis Partnership where she was responsible for re-articulating and embedding the purpose of John Lewis so that it continues to be a source of inspiration, innovation, and strategic differentiation. Sarah compares her time working with the Arcadia group, a UK retail network with a very intense focus on short-term shareholder profit, against her time with the John Lewis Partnership, which is the UK’s largest co-owned business. John Lewis has 70,000 people working for the company, and everyone are co-owners.  We talk about how these different approaches to doing business then impact the experience inside an organisation and what that does to people, strategy and relationships with supplies and customers.  We hear how John Lewis was a massive social experiment to see what happens when a business sees its role in society differently. And we hear about the partnership’s journey over the past 100 years. We then talk about Sarah’s current role as CEO of Blueprint for Better Business, a charity that helps businesses to be inspired and guided by a purpose that benefits society and respects people and planet.  How does an organisation move from thinking of itself as a profit maximising machine to thinking of itself as a human system in service of society?  And how does that transition happen? Knowing that this is such a decisive decade, and that the role that business needs to play now is more important than ever to shape our future, we hear about how she is working with businesses to be a part of the solution.  Sarah leaves us with two beautiful quotes which sum up this episode: Antoine de Saint-Exupery: “If you want to build a ship, don’t drum up the people to gather wood, divide the work and give orders. Instead, teach them to yearn for the vast and endless sea”. Arthur Ashe: “Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.”   If you want to better understand the return on being more human, this episode is a must listen. So throw on those running shoes, or grab that favourite beverage, and enjoy this conversation with Sarah. And please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe. If you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter here.   If you would like to pre-order my book Return on Humanity: Leadership lessons from all corners of the earth, you can do that here.

What does it mean to create an environment for success at a company?   How do companies often get it wrong? What happens and what does that look like?  Psychological safety is a key ingredient for businesses and teams to be able to improve, innovate and progress. People need to feel free to speak honestly and feel supported enough to come up with new ideas; without that freedom, new innovative solutions and problem solving is less likely to happen.  And that is exactly what we’re going to be talking about today. Dr Amanda Potter is an award-winning Chartered Psychologist, Leadership/ Executive Coach and a Certified Principal Business Psychologist with over 25 years' experience. She has been working with C-suite and senior executives to enable them to drive strategic success – and today she shares her stories and knowledge of working in the area of talent strategy. We hear about her experience which is rooted in leadership in crisis, resilience, Psychological Safety and belonging. Amanda will tell us about the neuroscience of resilience and positivity and how that impacts cultures at organisations.   She'll let us in on some tips on how we can all just simply feel better. And she tells us about the contributors to low psych safety, the watch outs, and what different types of organisations need to look out for. I ask her for insights on the difference in the various cultures that her company works with, but also the difference between sectors. Amanda’s reflection on psych safety in a culture like the police force is really interesting.  She then leaves us with some top tips on what to do to create more connection between team members - and you'll even get a great exercise that you can use for future team events. Many of us know the importance of creating connection, trust and safe spaces to work - but knowing this is one thing. Being able to do it is another. If you’re keen to dig deeper on all of this, please join me for this fascinating conversation with Amanda. So grab that favourite beverage or throw on those running shoes, and here is Dr Amanda Potter.  Please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe. If you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter here.   If you would like to pre-order my book Return on Humanity: Leadership lessons from all corners of the earth, you can do that here. If you would like to listen to the Chief Psychology Officer Podcast by Dr Amanda Potter, you can listen here.

There is a problem in the communications and creative industries that few people are doing anything about.  It has to do with a senior ceiling that marginalised communities face when it comes to senior roles. There is a drain of really talented people that are leaving because they just don’t see a path for their progression in these companies. It not only doesn’t have to be that way, but business is worse off if this is allowed to happen. Today, Nazia Du Bois, former Global Head of Rare with Google, is going to bring all of this to life for us. Nazia is a multiple award-winning agency founder, creative strategy leader, and industry DEI champion. She most recently led Google's global DEI program, Rare with Google, aimed at raising diversity in the creative industries. Before that, she was Global Brand Strategy Director at Netflix, working on representation and global brand equity.  Prior to going in-house, Nazia founded Ricebowl Strategy, which developed award-winning global brand positioning platforms for Spotify, Harry's and Popeyes amongst others. She was the founding global CSO of DAVID in Sao Paulo, Buenos Aires and Miami, as well as founding Ogilvy's Islamic Branding practice. Nazia has been named one of the top 5 most awarded planning directors in the world. She is from Bangladesh and holds two degrees from Oxford. Today you’ll hear stories from her time at Netflix and how being in LA when the social justice movement kicked off in the wake of the tragic murder of George Floyd then paved the way to the next stage of her career.  We hear about the strategies that Google used to create more creative diversity at senior leavels of the company, with a view to change the culture of the organisation. Nazia shares some profound thinking from top thought leaders driving the inclusion revolution and what needs to happen to hold onto the senior talent from marginalised cultures. And then tells us what she learned about diversity and inclusion from being part of the mass layoffs at Google in 2023.  Nazia then leaves us with an important piece of advice that all of us can take to heart. This episode will leave you with lots to ponder on, so throw on those running shoes or grab that favourite beverage, and here is Nazia.  And please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe. If you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter here.  If you would like to pre-order Return on Humanity: Leadership lessons from all corners of the earth, you can do that here.

Can you do good and still be successful?  What is the true value of purpose? How are huge UK companies in the financial services sector currently struggling from a talent retention and recruitment perspective and what is the answer?  After a bit of a break, TIE Unearthed is back, and today I’m speaking with the first person that hired me when I moved to London in 2001, Chris Norman. Chris is the Founder and CEO of GOOD Agency, a pioneer of brand Purpose and has worked for the last 28 years across the commercial, government and charity sectors helping them create value from the positive impact they have on the world. Chris was included in the 2019 Progress 1000 as one of the 25 most influential people in London in media and is a regular judge and panellist. Chris’s breadth of experience is with the largest commercial and charity brands, and today we talk about how behaviours are the essence of any company, what it means to be human, and what happens when a company isn’t authentic. We talk about GOOD being a B-corp, but why they haven’t been champions of the initiative until recently. Chris tells us why they have become employee owned. What a better world looks like and how we get there. And we end with valuable learnings from Chris’ challenging journey. I have found Chris’ story and that of GOOD fascinating, so much so I have captured it in my book, Return on Humanity, coming out in April of 2024. Here you get a sneak peek! So throw on those running shoes or grab that favourite beverage, and here is Chris. And please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe. If you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter here.  If you would like to pre-order Return on Humanity: Leadership lessons from all corners of the earth, you can do that here.

What does it look like to build a company that not only outlives you, but also makes you feel good in the process? Can you make money and create a significantly positive impact on the planet at the same time? What is the return on being more human? Today I got to speak with Simon Rogerson, co-Founder and CEO of Octopus Group, a company that has invested $20 billion into many different companies in the last 23 years. He’s not only one of the sharpest and quickest minds I’ve had the pleasure to meet, but he’s also a really good guy.  His mission is simple: to invest in the people, the ideas and the industries that will change the world. Today he brings how he does this to life. Simon explains why Octopus Group will never be publicly owned.  He tells us the biggest lesson that he’s learned in 23 years of running Octopus. Let’s us in on the key interview question he asks to reveal who people really are.  And we get to hear two stories that bring to life the main two aspects of Octopus’ culture that make it possible for them to be an industry disruptor.  I have always believed that business can be a force for good, although many companies aren’t built to make it that right now. Simon brings to life how this is possible through his approach to business, and the inspiring work they are doing.  I adored this conversation – I think you’ll catch that from the energy. There is so much here.  So throw on those running shoes, or grab that favourite beverage, and here is Simon. And please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe. And if you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter here. ⁠http://bit.ly/TIENewsletter⁠

How is the law firm that took on the UK government with Article 50 and took on the Royal Family as Princess Diana’s divorce attorneys so successful? Is it because of their high-profile cases or is there another secret ingredient? I was keen to find out. So today, Elliot Moss, Partner and Chief Brand Officer at Mishcon, and Patrick Connolly, Director of the Mischon de Reya Academy, let us in on their secret.  I wanted to understand what sets the law firm apart from their competitors. How do they attract and retain such incredible talent? And what makes them top of their class? We talk about the key progressive values of the company and why they are so important. We hear about the type of person that chooses to work there. And a few of their impressive initiatives that have become an important part of the company. Elliot and Patrick’s responses say a lot about the firm, and there is one thing that connects all of their answers: It’s their human centric strategy.  Today we bring this to life. So throw on those running shoes, or grab that favourite beverage, and here is Patrick and Elliot. And please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe. And if you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter here. ⁠⁠http://bit.ly/TIENewsletter⁠⁠

Can you have purpose driven organizations without purpose driven leaders?  What does it feel like to be in service of something bigger than us?  And should it really come down to tax status to decide if people, or companies, are going to make a difference in the world? These are just some of the questions that get answered in today’s episode with Jon Duschinsky.  Jon is a global thought leader, social innovator and champion of Business for Good.   He inspires future-thinking leaders to Make More Money by Doing More Good, accelerating their innovation, social and environmental impact and talent retention. He has advised clients in over 60 countries, including companies like Airbus, NASCAR, and Prudential as well as the Governments of Germany, the US, France and the UAE. And he's coached hundreds of leaders and future leaders, written two books and lectures regularly at universities around the world. We talk about why unlocking your personal purpose and your corporate purpose is so important. Jon talks about our conditioned behavior patterns, and how they don’t serve us.  And the return on leaning into purpose - both as a company and as an individual.  There is so much here.  So grab that favourite beverage or throw on those running shoes, and enjoy this conversation with Jon. And please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe. If you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter here. http://bit.ly/TIENewsletter And you can also reach Jon on LinkedIn here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jonduschinsky/

Is it possible to be a profitable and rapidly growing business and still put people first? What makes a company an incredible place to work? And what is the return on being a human centric company and a human centric leader? As many of you know, I’m in the final stages of writing my book Return on Humanity: The unexpected benefits of being more human in life and business. I’ve been speaking with people from various sectors and businesses around the world to confirm my hypothesis. And I’m happy to say, until now, it hasn’t been challenged. But this conversation with Sam Theobald doesn’t just confirm the hypothesis. Her entire career has been focused on it. And this podcast brings the real quantifiable benefits and examples to life. It is such an incredible conversation. Sam is an HR professional with over 20 years’ experience working with entrepreneurial leaders, bringing a strong commercial edge to the HR function, and championing a “people first” approach to business. Sam’s current role at Next 15 spans multi-markets and provides strategic guidance to HR teams within subsidiaries across the group, as well as working closely to counsel businesses so they understand the value of great people practices and human centric leadership in high growth organisations. She explains how it’s possible to have a commercial focus and still put people first.  She talks about the power of self-awareness. And what it means in the context of her work. And the details of what it actually means to have a human centric approach to business.  Essentially, if you want to be able to attract great people and get the best out of them, you can’t miss this podcast.  This conversation was electric. I promise you’ll enjoy the energy! We were both buzzing afterwards.  So grab that favourite beverage or throw on those running shoes, and enjoy this conversation with Sam. And please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe. And if you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter here. http://bit.ly/TIENewsletter

What is success?   Really, if you stop to think about it. What does it mean in the whole scheme of things?   We all know how easy it is to get sidetracked in life to what we think a successful life is.    But what happens if you reflect on when you feel fulfilled? What does that look like? Is it the same as what you imagined the definition of success to be?   Today I am speaking with Erik Fernholm, co founder of The Inner Development Goals, a global framework defining the skills needed for us to reach the UN's Sustainable Development Goals. And 29k.org, the world's first free platform for practicing self-leadership, mental health, and inner development through evidence-based programs which has measurably transformed the lives of tens of thousands of people.   Today we ask some big questions.   What is the root of unsustainability?   When do we feel happiness and connection?   And what needs to happen to build a more sustainable society?   We talk about the power of shared experience and common humanity.    Corporate metrics.    And we end on the Nordic Secret. If you haven’t heard about it already, you need to. It’s the future, and how I end my up-and-coming book.    I could have talked to Erik for hours. And when you listen in, you’ll understand why. There is so much overlap with what we are both doing.    So grab that favourite beverage or throw on those running shoes, and enjoy this conversation with Erik.   And please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe.   And if you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter here. http://bit.ly/TIENewsletter

Progress. Surely a sign of progress is that you make things cheaper, faster, and more efficient, while keeping the level of quality at least the same. If not better. But I think we can all agree things don’t seem to be heading in that direction when it comes to life as a customer. Would you say that the customer experience over the last 20 years has gotten better? I think we all agree the answer is no. But is that acceptable? If things aren’t working for customers, and not working for colleagues, perhaps it’s important to find another way? And that’s exactly what John Sills, Managing Partner at the customer-led growth company, The Foundation, talks to us about today. 25 years ago, he started his career on a market stall in Essex, and since then has worked in and with companies around the world to make things better for customers. He’s been in front-line teams delivering the experience, innovation teams designing the propositions, and global HQ teams creating the strategy. He's been a bank manager during the financial crisis (not fun), launched a mobile app to millions of people (very fun), and regularly visits strangers’ houses to ask very personal questions (incredible fun). He now works with companies across industries and around the world, and before joining The Foundation spent twelve years at HSBC, latterly as Head of Customer Innovation. And he’s just published a book on the topic - The Human Experience. We talk about the importance of human-centric behaviours to create more efficient companies. The power of an outside-in perspective. And in short, how to make life better for customers. Which then creates a better business - on all fronts. This is a super fun, funny, human, and incredibly important conversation. So grab that favourite beverage, or throw on those running shoes, and here is John. And please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe. And if you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter here. http://bit.ly/TIENewsletter

What are the logistical financial challenges that a bereaved spouse faces when their loved one passes away? Is it possible for a bank to help someone who has dementia feel safe? What are the worries that people who are living with cancer have when it comes to their life-insurance policy? These are just a handful of the human concerns that people around the UK have voiced when it comes to their finances. And concerns that can be answered when companies are willing to listen. Jan and his team at Three Hands makes that listening and human interaction possible. Jan Levy is the MD of Three Hands, a small socially minded business that sets out to create business value and social value, hand in hand. Sitting in the space between businesses and non-profits, Three Hands develops leaders through projects in communities, helps businesses create and run high impact social impact activities and, increasingly, brings the voice of charities, and the ‘lived experts’ they support, into businesses. As companies move closer to the digital world and become more disconnected from society, Three Hands is helping to fill the void through social insights. Working with companies to create more connection with the services they need to offer. And the desire that customers have, to deal with humans. We talk about the power of opening channels of curiosity and understanding different parts of society. Jan explains what it means for business to be a part of society. And what happens when you create empathy between two sets of people or two organisations. Today Jan will bring all of this to life. So grab that favourite beverage or throw on those running shoes, and enjoy this conversation with Jan. And please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe. And if you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter here. http://bit.ly/TIENewsletter

What value do we lose when economics reduces communities to markets? How can investors not just be seen as check books? And if suppliers are not just simply seen as delivering to a contract, what else could that relationship look like? Today Paul answers some big questions. All rooted in shifting the stories that we live and work by. Paul Skinner is the author of The Purpose Upgrade: Change your Business to Save the World. Change the World to Save your Business. He’s also the author of Collaborative Advantage: How Collaboration Beats Competition as a Strategy for Success. Through his consulting practice The Agency of the Future, Paul helps clients to drive purpose-led change and better mobilise stakeholders for lasting success. And he also founded MarketingKind, a non-profit professional membership community that brings business leaders, marketers and change-makers together to address our most pressing problems. Today Paul explains how collaborative advantage is a radical alternative to competitive advantage. We talk about what a purpose upgrade is and why we need to elevate purpose now more than ever. And Paul gives us a beautifully articulated solution to substantially increasing the ceiling for success for any enterprise. And it’s easier than you think. We talk about economics. Why only focusing on profit isn’t good for business. And how purpose can be our most adaptive capacity as humans. Paul then finishes by explaining how we can avoid being puppets of our prior intentionality and instead the true authors of our own future change. You don’t want to miss this conversation. So, grab that favourite beverage or throw on those running shoes, and enjoy this conversation with Paul. And please don’t forget to let us know what you think of this episode, leave a review and subscribe. And if you would like to be reminded of future podcasts and other inspiring stories from TIE, join our newsletter here. http://bit.ly/TIENewsletter You can also grab a copy of his book, The Purpose Upgrade, here.