Let's Talk Leadership with Helen Woodward

Dive into the fascinating world of impactful communication with our latest episode featuring Alex Merry, the dynamic force behind Mic Drop, a platform dedicated to empowering individuals through the art of storytelling. Join us as we uncover the secrets to crafting compelling narratives, seizing the spotlight, and leaving a lasting impression. In this insightful conversation, our host engages with Alex Merry to explore the transformative power of storytelling. Discover the inspiration behind Mic Drop and how it's become a catalyst for individuals seeking to amplify their voices and share their stories with authenticity. Alex Merry, a seasoned expert in the realm of public speaking and communication, shares invaluable insights on conquering stage fright, structuring a narrative for maximum impact, and leveraging storytelling as a tool for connection. Whether you're an aspiring speaker, a seasoned storyteller, or simply intrigued by the magic of captivating narratives, this episode is a must-listen.

Step into the world of transformative leadership as we talk with Alan Sieler, a pioneer in the field of ontological coaching. In this illuminating episode, we engage in a thought-provoking conversation, exploring the depths of ontological coaching and its profound impact on leaders. Discover how ontological coaching goes beyond the surface, delving into the very essence of leadership—examining the way leaders show up, communicate, and influence others. Alan guides us through thinking about the power of language, moods, and emotions in shaping effective leadership practice. Whether you're a seasoned executive, an aspiring leader, or someone passionate about personal and professional development, this episode promises a deep dive into the transformative potential of ontological coaching. Listen to learn more about how to cultivate a leadership presence that inspires and empowers.

You might be surprised, but intertwining science with leadership roles is no easy feat. The essence of our leadership often rests on our values, a vital one being the heart - and not just in a metaphorical sense. For this enlightening episode of Let's Talk Leadership, I dive deep with Professor Lynne Bianchi from the University of Manchester. Lynne, newly promoted as Professor, wears multiple hats, including being the Vice Dean for Social Responsibility. Our conversation spans from the kindness in leadership to the challenges and 'messiness' it entails. The stories and reflections she brings forward are not just insightful, but truly resonate on a personal level.

Many teachers embark on a journey from small UK community schools to the international arena, and the adventure isn’t just about teaching; it’s about personal growth, emotions and adjusting to unique school cultures. In this episode of Let’s Talk Leadership, we dive deep with a talented and caring school leader turned leadership coach who reflects on their early days in the UK, the challenges and joys and the exciting leap to schools in Jordan, the Netherlands and Nepal. Understanding the heartbeat of a school, its culture and nuances, can shape a school leader's journey. Join us as we delve into anecdotes of teaching and transitioning across borders.

For this episode of Let’s Talk Leadership I talk with Matt de la Hey, the CEO of Inploi, a London UK based software company helping big employers streamline their hiring, and helping people open to work find the roles they want. In this episode Matt De La Hey talks through the journey of startup to scaleup, from inspiration to working with leading brands, and the essential role of learning through experience. He also shares the reflective questions which help him stay grounded and ‘Relentlessly focussed on what people want.’

Hiring well is foundational to any organisation’s success. So how do we do it well? For this episode of Let’s Talk Leadership, I talk with Kristen Shannon whose background includes leading the HR team at Ark Academies whilst recruiting 800+ staff and she’s now the CEO of Highliner Technology. We talk about how to make good hires, pitfalls to avoid, bias to be aware of and how to keep ourselves on track when we’re under pressure to hire fast. We also look at organisational culture and how to build the culture we want.

You may not know, but many of us are going to live to be 100 - which is amazing! The quality of our life depends on many things, a significant one is how your heart is – and I don’t just mean your emotional state. For this first episode of Let’s Talk Leadership, I talk with Maria Brosnan about heart health. Maria is the founder of Pursuit Wellbeing, who work with groups of school leaders on taking care of their hearts. The data behind her work is clear, and the impact of her work on individuals is life changing.