OxTalks

In this episode of Oxtalks, I sit down with Lucile Flamand, Chief Transformation Officer at Bibby Financial Services, to talk about leadership, transformation and something we came to describe as the “Secret Coach”.In an industry driven by targets, pace and performance, coaching is not always the first skill people associate with senior leadership. Yet listening to Lucile, it becomes clear how important the “Secret Coach" has been in shaping her leadership style.It all started early on in Lucile's career when she was fortunate enough to encounter a not-so-secret coach who really caught her attention. Inspired by it, she went on to train formally as a coach and, although she is not overly keen on the word “coach” itself, she recognised the impact these skills would have not just on her, but on those around her.For her, it is not a title. It is a toolkit. A way of leading.We talk about leaders who quietly use coaching skills every day without necessarily calling it that. Asking instead of telling. Creating ownership instead of dependency. Building the kind of psychological safety that allows change to stick.A particularly interesting part of the conversation is the distinction between coaching and mentoring. Mentoring shares experience and advice. Coaching draws out thinking and ownership. Knowing when to use which is a critical skill in developing people, and one many leaders never formally learn.Listening to Lucile, you get the sense that while technical ability matters, it is the ability to ask better questions, give meaningful feedback, manage ego and genuinely support your team that shapes the type of impact you as a leader can have.A thoughtful and practical conversation about modern leadership in financial services and why some of the most effective leaders are coaching behind the scenes.OxTalks is produced by Urban Podcasts.

The UK wealth management sector is in the middle of sustained M&A consolidation. While deal logic often looks compelling on paper, many firms are still losing talent, momentum and value after completion.In this episode, Chris Oxley is joined by Chartered Occupational Psychologist and culture strategist Paula Brockwell to explore cultural integration as a material risk in M&A, and why it continues to be underestimated.Rather than treating culture as engagement or morale, the conversation reframes it as an operating system: the systems, norms and behaviours that determine how people actually perform under pressure. When acquisitions take place, uncertainty rises, people retreat to familiar behaviours, and misalignment quickly surfaces. Stable, relationship-led businesses are pushed into growth modes they were never designed for. Farmers are asked to hunt. High-quality individuals disengage or leave — often taking clients and revenue with them.A central theme is timing. Most organisations only address cultural integration once problems appear: rising attrition, falling energy, decision paralysis and a sense that everything feels harder than it should. By that point, value has already leaked. Paula argues that cultural integration should be treated as a pre-deal and post-deal risk — assessed with the same seriousness as financial, regulatory and operational factors.The episode also explores what happens beneath the surface during integration: why leaders and employees experience change so differently, why process alignment without clear storytelling increases resistance, and why line managers — not frameworks or initiatives — ultimately determine whether people commit to the new direction or retreat into survival mode.For leaders navigating consolidation, this is a practical, commercially grounded discussion about cultural integration as a driver of risk, performance and long-term value.OxTalks is produced by Urban Podcasts.

In this episode, Chris speaks with Emma Boardwell, founder of Emotional Finance, psychotherapist, coach and qualified financial adviser. Emma brings a rare combination of therapeutic training and industry experience, offering deep insight into why financial advice is increasingly becoming a human, relational profession rather than a purely technical one.Together, they explore how emotional intelligence, relational awareness and reflective practice are transforming the expectations placed on advisers. Emma explains why technical expertise alone no longer meets the needs of modern clients, how trust is built through transparency and authenticity, and why collaborative, co-created conversations lead to better client outcomes than traditional directive advice.Emma also shares the story behind Emotional Finance, her framework for developing relational intelligence across three levels: building trust, forming meaningful connection and working collaboratively. She and Chris discuss the impact of AI, shifting client expectations, vulnerability under consumer duty, and the importance of presence, empathy and self-awareness in financial planning.Emma provides real examples of the transformations she sees in advisers, from early-career planners building confidence to experienced advisers rediscovering purpose and depth in their work. She also introduces the Emotional Finance Collective, a reflective practice community designed to help advisers continuously refine their relational skills.Whether you're an adviser, leader or simply curious about the human side of money, this conversation offers a powerful look at how emotional and relational intelligence can reshape client relationships and elevate the profession.OxTalks is produced by Urban Podcasts.

What if boosting productivity and retention wasn’t about perks or pay but about truly listening to your people?In this episode, Emma Caiger, Director of Talent Intelligence at Henley Insights Group joins me, to explore how smart data, cultural awareness and a people-first mindset are transforming the world of work.Emma shares how talent intelligence goes beyond HR buzzwords, helping organisations truly understand what drives employee engagement and business success. From global workforce shifts post-Covid to the rise of AI and evolving employee expectations, we break down how leadership teams can make better, more informed decisions that put people at the centre.What You’ll Learn- The Happiness Dividend: How employee engagement directly impacts productivity, retention, and profitability.- Talent Intelligence in Action: Why tailored, data-led people strategies beat one-size-fits-all solutions every time.- Building Trust: How meaningful listening and proactive retention strategies turn employees into brand advocates.Emma’s insights are a reminder that a happy, engaged workforce isn’t just good for morale - it’s essential for growth. When we stop treating people as commodities and start seeing them as partners, everything changes.OxTalks is produced by Urban Podcasts.

Can mindset truly be the secret weapon for modern HR leaders?In this episode, I speak with Tom Emery, People Performance Consultant, coach, and bestselling author of People People: Reach Your Full Potential as a CHRO. As the creator of the CHRO Impact Framework and founder of HEX, Tom brings over two decades of executive HR experience across sectors from retail to financial services.Tom’s leadership journey, from firefighting in chaos to architecting and driving strategic transformation, sparked the development of the CHRO Impact Framework and shaped a coaching philosophy for senior leaders grounded in reflection, emotional intelligence, and commercial acumen. His CHRO Impact Framework supports senior HR professionals in shifting from operational reactivity to purposeful, enterprise-level impact.From mindset and self-awareness to curiosity and commercial fluency, Tom explores what it truly means to lead HR teams that drive change, influence power structures, and elevate organisational performance.What You’ll LearnMindset mastery: Why purposeful thinking, curiosity, and reflection are the foundation of every great HR leader.From firefighting to frameworks: How to move from reaction to intention using Tom's CHRO Impact Framework.Commercial curiosity: How understanding business dynamics transforms HR from a support function to a strategic powerhouse.Tom reminds us: real transformation does not begin with systems or structures, it begins with people.Change happens when people change. And as a leader, you're the one who sets that change in motion.If you’re interested in continuing the conversation with Tom or working with him to increase your impact, feel free to get in touch at [email protected] reminds us that real transformation doesn't start with systems or structures-it starts with people. Change happens when people change-and you're the person to start that change.OxTalks is produced by Urban Podcasts.

What if transformation wasn’t about technology at all - but about people?In this episode of Ox Talks, I sit down with Jamie Pizzorno, former Chief Product Owner and Head of Cyber Security Change at Standard Chartered, and Executive Director at Goldman Sachs. Across nearly two decades in global finance, Jamie has led large-scale organisational transformation – from embedding AI and machine learning into risk controls to managing multi-million-pound cyber security portfolios.But Jamie’s perspective goes far beyond systems and processes – he sees transformation as a deeply human journey.During this episode we explore what transformation really means, how to bridge the gap between technical teams and senior executives, and why empathy, trust, and communication are the true drivers of lasting change. Jamie also shares the frameworks that have shaped his career – including Kaizen and ADKAR – while emphasising simplicity, clarity, and stakeholder engagement. What You’ll Learn- Human-Centred Change: Why successful transformations begin with empathy, trust, and psychological safety.- Frameworks that Work: How Kaizen and ADKAR can simplify complex change into actionable steps.- Leadership Skills: The power of communication, storytelling, and stakeholder engagement as transformation superpowers.Jamie’s journey is a reminder that meaningful change isn’t just about systems - it’s about people, resilience, and leaving organisations better than you found them.OxTalks is produced by Urban Podcasts.

How can leaders use culture as a true competitive advantage?In this episode of OxTalks, I sit down with Jo Rice – former Chief Executive and Co-Founder of Resurgo, named Best Place to Work by The Sunday Times in 2024, and creator of the award-winning Spear Programme, which has helped over 10,000 young people overcome barriers to employment.Drawing on her experience coaching leaders in industries from wealth management to manufacturing, Jo shares how culture isn’t just a “nice to have” – it’s the engine that drives engagement, innovation and performance. We explore the neuroscience of trust, how authentic leadership inspires teams, and why ignoring culture during growth can cost you dearly.Jo’s stories from guiding organisations through mergers, rapid growth and high-stakes transitions reveal practical steps to align teams around shared values, unlock communication and create workplaces where people thrive.If you’ve ever wondered how small cultural shifts can lead to big business wins, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.OxTalks is produced by Urban Podcasts.

Is digital overload quietly eroding you and your team’s productivity, focus, and mental health?In this must-listen episode, we’re joined by Petra Velzeboer—Global TEDx Speaker, CEO, and renowned mental health consultant, to confront the hidden costs of our always-on culture.From escaping a religious cult and battling addiction, to becoming one of the most sought-after voices in workplace mental health, Petra brings raw honesty, clinical expertise, and business-savvy insights. She’s the author of Digital Wellbeing and host of the Disrupting Wellbeing podcast, challenging how we think about success, performance, and sustainable leadership in the digital age.Petra unpacks how doom scrolling, notifications, and blurred work–life boundaries are silently draining your team’s focus, resilience, and innovation. More importantly, she offers real solutions used by FTSE leaders and global organisations to:Build healthier tech habits that drive performance, not burnoutRedesign hybrid work with clearer digital boundariesAlign wellbeing strategy with commercial objectivesCultivate a culture of psychological safety, creativity, and meaningful connectionHer challenge to you: Ask your team how your tech habits affect them. The answer may change how you lead.Want to learn more about Petras work?Website | LinkedIn Get a copy of Petra's Digital Wellbeing book.OxTalks is produced by Urban Podcasts.

In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Dr Rob Archer, a psychologist renowned for his work in optimising health and enhancing performance under high-pressure conditions. Dr Archer shared insights from his extensive experience with elite sports teams and leading corporate clients, focusing on the crucial roles of high performance routines and effective recovery strategies.We explored the concept of "high performance routines," which Dr Archer identified as essential frameworks that support individuals and teams in maintaining peak performance by balancing intense work demands with proper recovery. Rob introduced his concept of a High Performance Routine—grounded in circadian science and principles from elite sport—outlining the four key stages that can help us work more effectively and sustainably. These stages provide a structure to our day that promotes focus, energy management, and long-term resilience.He emphasised that effective recovery is not merely about avoiding burnout, but is vital for sustained high performance and realising one’s full potential. Dr Archer also discussed the common challenges faced by high-performing corporate leaders, particularly the risk of falling into a “flatline” routine of non-stop work without breaks, which can severely impact productivity and health. He offered practical advice on how to structure our days to include focused work periods interspersed with significant recovery times, highlighting the importance of aligning with the body’s natural circadian rhythms.Throughout our conversation, Dr Archer provided actionable tips for integrating high performance routines into daily life, ensuring long-term productivity and wellbeing. This episode not only illuminated the psychological aspects of performance but also equipped us with valuable tools to enhance our professional and personal lives.OxTalks is produced by Urban Podcasts.

Ever felt like doing the job isn’t enough—that there’s something else that sets the standout performers apart? In this episode, I’m joined by Gareth Lewis, Executive Coach at Hatwell Group, who brings a rare perspective: 20+ years in private banking and wealth management, followed by a pivot into coaching top talent in finance.Gareth opens up about hitting a wall during a bank sale, the identity crisis that followed, and how working with a coach changed the game for him. From that turning point, he’s made it his mission to help others navigate the complex world of finance—not just with technical skills, but with emotional intelligence, curiosity, and a deeper understanding of the personalities around them.We get into the real stuff: how to build trust in a world built on relationships, how to deal with big egos and tricky dynamics, and how to make an impact—especially when you’re still finding your feet. Gareth shares practical advice on everything from networking and presence to avoiding burnout and learning to speak up, even when you’re the most junior in the room.It’s straight-talking, no-fluff insight for anyone trying to get ahead—or just stay sane—in the fast-paced world of private banking and finance.OxTalks is produced by Urban Podcasts.

How can personalised employee development and a focus on purpose drive success in today’s organisations? In this episode of Ox Talks, we sit down with Bradley Honnor, Managing Director of Matchfit, to explore his unique approach to high-performance coaching and organisational development.Bradley shares his journey from over two decades in corporate management to founding Matchfit, a consultancy that prioritises humanistic, tailored learning experiences over traditional, one-size-fits-all methods. We explore the importance of treating employees as individuals with distinct needs and motivations, as well as how purpose and self-reflection are critical for personal and professional growth.Our conversation also covers the dynamics within teams, especially in the context of mergers and acquisitions, and highlights the importance of effective communication strategies. Bradley introduces the concept of “campers” and “climbers” to help identify different professional motivations and how these personalities shape organisational success.We also explore leadership decisions, the role of empowerment in team engagement, and Bradley’s formula for success, which blends a positive mindset, seizing opportunities, and fostering strong people skills.OxTalks is created by Urban Podcasts.

In this episode of Ox Talks, I sit down with Philippa Hann, the incoming CEO of Paradigm Norton Financial Planning. With over 20 years of experience in financial services litigation, Philippa shares her journey from a litigator challenging large financial institutions to a leader in the world of financial planning.Philippa discusses the emotional toll of cases like the British Steel pension scandal, the complexities of human behaviour in the financial advice sector, and the deep trust clients place in their advisers. She reflects on why good professionals sometimes make decisions they later regret—a topic that has inspired her upcoming book.In a pivotal moment, Philippa reveals how a conversation with her personal financial planner became the catalyst for change, giving her the push to leave her legal career and explore new opportunities, including writing her book and taking on NED roles. This ultimately led to her appointment as CEO of Paradigm Norton. Her insights into the importance of balancing professional success with personal fulfilment offer valuable lessons for anyone in wealth management, financial planning, or professional services.This episode is packed with thoughtful reflections on ethics, human behaviour, and the transformative power of financial advice in shaping life's journey.OxTalks is produced and managed by Urban Podcasts.

Can technology transform how we think about compliance?In this episode, I explore the cutting-edge world of risk management with Cristian and Gary from Lexverify. They share how their innovative approach, powered by AI and real-time assistance, is revolutionising the way organisations handle compliance, shifting from reactive measures to proactive strategies that keep companies ahead of potential issues.Cristian shares his unique journey from social scientist to tech entrepreneur, revealing how his deep understanding of human behaviour shapes Lexverify's game-changing solutions. We explore how integrating social sciences into compliance technology can address the human element often overlooked in legal and regulatory contexts.Gary introduces the intriguing concept of "left of bang" versus "right of bang," offering insights into how organisations can prevent compliance breaches before they happen.With use cases from financial services to employee well-being, they share how this technology offers real-time feedback and guidance, transforming compliance from a burdensome necessity into an opportunity for growth and integrity.OxTalks is produced and managed by Urban Podcasts.

How does the brain react when the stakes are high? Psychologist Jake Lovelock joins me to explore the universal principles behind performance under pressure, revealing why even the best-trained individuals can falter when it matters most. Jake, an elite sports psychologist within F1, Premiership football and Premiership rugby discusses the critical balance between striving for perfection and settling for "good enough," providing actionable insights for anyone facing high-pressure situations, from athletes to corporate professionals. Confidence, self-perception, and the growth mindset are pivotal in handling stress. Jake breaks down the ways these mental frameworks influence performance, particularly when anxiety and information overload come into play. Together, we uncover strategies to improve decision-making and maintain composure using real-world examples like sports and public speaking. By redefining stress as a potential enhancer, Jake outlines how to harness anxiety for better outcomes.OxTalks is produced and managed by Urban Podcasts.

In this episode of OxTalks, I sit down with Matt Falla, Managing Partner of Evelyn Partners Channel Islands.In this unique episode, Matt shares an open-hearted account of his career journey from traveling across Australia and Asia to the struggles he faced during two mental health breakdowns. Matt walks us through the steps he took to find support, shedding light on the often-unnoticed pressures that come with professional progression.We discuss how empathy drives his management style and the importance of creating a supportive environment for achieving both personal and professional success. Matt’s story underscores the critical role of self-awareness and the significance of genuine human connections.OxTalks is produced and managed by Urban Podcasts.

Unlock the secrets to effective risk management and insightful decision-making with Christian Hunt, the host of the Human Risk Podcast. Discover how curiosity and behavioural science can transform organisational compliance.In this episode, Christian shares his journey from regulating international banks to leading a behavioural science function. Through stories and real-world examples, including the notorious 2017 Oscars mishap, Christian emphasises the importance of cognitive diversity and innovative problem-solving techniques.Learn how focusing on human behaviour and psychology can unlock sustainable compliance and employee engagement solutions. From crises to new leadership visions, Christian categorises the key moments that drive change and shares how his unconventional approach not only fosters a culture of genuine support for compliance initiatives within organisations but also offers a hopeful view of the future of compliance.OxTalks is produced and managed by Urban Podcasts.

Have you ever wondered what ignites that spark in your brain when you make a choice, be it picking a brand or deciding to trust someone?This episode explores the mind's undercurrents with cognitive neuroscience professor Joseph Devlin. Together, we break down the walls of the subconscious, revealing the secrets of consumer neuroscience that drive our decisions, often without us even realising it.Joseph shares some of the sophisticated tools used to measure audience engagement, pushing past the limitations of traditional market research.OxTalks is produced and managed by Urban Podcasts.

Have you ever considered how AI shapes the business landscape and the psychology that drives it? Business psychologist and psychometrician Katie Thomas and I discuss AI's influence on the future of work.In this episode, we delve into the shift towards behavioural skills over technical know-how and the rise of adaptability as a prized asset. Katie explains the urgent need for personnel who can adapt and drive transformative change within their organisations, emphasising the necessity of these skills in the evolving business landscape.We also explore the ethical dilemmas in AI use, such as issues of bias and look at how AI can provide support systems in workplaces lacking extensive mental health resources to promote a more compassionate and efficient work environment.Lastly, Katie shares how Promptability is a new, innovative tool that assists users in crafting effective AI prompts.OxTalks is produced and managed by Urban Podcasts.

Known as 'Tipper X,' Tom Hardin became one of the most prolific informants in securities fraud history. He helped build over 20 of the 80+ individual criminal cases in Operation Perfect Hedge, a Wall Street house cleaning campaign that morphed into the largest insider trading investigation of a generation.As the youngest professional implicated in the sting, Tom was tasked with wearing a covert body wire on over 40 occasions to help the FBI bring down some of its biggest targets in the industry.In this episode, I hear first-hand Tom's story as we explore a world where ambition can eclipse ethics and the pursuit of success can lead to a downfall. We dissect the psychological forces when short-term profits overshadow long-term values and explore the complexities of navigating ethical dilemmas under the influence of mentors and workplace culture.Tom's reflections on his journey powerfully remind us of the thin line between right and wrong in high-stakes finance.OxTalks is produced and managed by Urban Podcasts.

Traversing the world to pursue career growth or satisfy our thirst for adventure is a challenging task. In this episode, I'm joined by Nathan Cornwell, who sheds light on the harsh realities of grappling with local languages, financial limitations, and the quest for a sense of belonging in a foreign country.Nathan shares how to create a support system from scratch, how to find guidance from colleagues and the personal traits that drive us to explore life-altering experiences abroad.OxTalks is produced and managed by Urban Podcasts.

In this episode, we take a thought-provoking journey through the dynamic intersection of AI and wealth management. Aalok Shukla, the co-founder of Implement AI, shares how AI can transform the industry and empower influential professionals to enhance their services.Aalok shares compelling examples of AI in action, from analysing consultations to generating insightful financial documents. We also explore the practical aspects of AI integration within wealth management, covering the foundational elements necessary for a smooth transition into an AI-enhanced future with the emergence of new specialised roles, such as fractional chief AI officers, demonstrating the growing commitment to AI in the sector.OxTalks is produced and managed by Urban Podcasts.

Boost your communication skills as in this episode, we explore the intriguing concept of empathetic curiosity with our distinguished guest, Dean Cooper. With Dean's extensive background in management consulting, psychology and neuroscience, he paints a vivid picture of how this critical skill can transform our interactions, fortify relationships, and mould us into more effective leaders.This episode is a masterclass on empathetic curiosity, promising rich insights on navigating negative emotions, engaging in challenging conversations, and genuinely understanding others' perspectives.OxTalks is produced and managed by Urban Podcasts.

I explore the secrets of motivation and persuasion in wealth management with Frederick Kermisch, a global sales coach to private bankers. Frederick sheds light on the nuances of extrinsic and intrinsic motivation and the power of a clear path to success in boosting team motivation.Together, we uncover the importance of setting targets and building systems in wealth management. Frederick offers unique insights into translating ideas into reality and the crucial role of managerial support in this process.Absorb his wisdom as we delve into the intricacies of setting realistic goals for employees. As we navigate this topic, we also touch upon the significance of comprehending how employees reach their targets and the role of creativity in goal-setting.OxTalks is produced and managed by Urban Podcasts.

Philip Grindale, Founder and CEO of Defuse Global, is a seasoned expert in the labyrinthine world of personal security, specialising in protecting high-profile individuals from targeted threats. Philip's extensive experience has honed his skill in discerning genuine threats from mere noise, a distinction that has proven critical in thwarting real-world attacks, as in the case of an intended assault on an MP.In this episode of OxTalks, we traverse the complex path from grievance to intended act, and Philip guides us through eight crucial methodologies for differentiating actual threats from harmless chatter.We explore the unique risks of online exposure, discussing how adversaries exploit the open web, deep web, and public forums to access personal details, emphasising the potential vulnerabilities such disclosure brings to high-profile figures.Philip also explains how he manages the delicate balance between security and personal freedom in family offices, particularly in the age of ubiquitous digital footprints.OxTalks is produced and managed by Urban Podcasts.

Can trauma be a catalyst for success? In this episode of OxTalks, I enter the fascinating world of the 'dark triad' with Dannielle Haig, director and Principal Business Psychologist at DH Consulting.We navigate the maze of psychopathy, narcissism, and Machiavellianism, looking at their origins and prevalence in various professions. We explore the connections between trauma, manipulation, and impulse control - all under the overarching theme of the dark triad.Dannielle shares valuable insights on how trauma can serve as a powerful catalyst for success and how dark triad personalities can manipulate their way to higher levels of achievement.OxTalks is produced and managed by Urban Podcasts.

In this intriguing conversation with Dean Cooper, an executive coach and trainer with 30 years of management consulting experience, we journey into hostage negotiation, interrogation and undercover agents.We dive into the power of labelling and curiosity in building effective relationships. Instead of asking 'why' questions, which can cause defensive reactions, Dean reveals how labels can bypass the brain's defensive mechanisms, making the person feel heard and understood.Dean also shares how to introduce and practice these communication skills and how even the most experienced people can break old habits and embrace new ones.OxTalks is produced and managed by Urban Podcasts.

What makes a company culture good or bad? In our first episode of OxTalks, we are joined by business psychologist Ben Williams as we dissect the complex world of company culture.Ben is a highly respected chartered psychologist, former chairman of the Association of Business Psychology and a founder of Sten 10.Ben provides an intriguing perspective on how culture can vary significantly from firm to firm, reminding us that while some cultures may be deemed toxic, there's no definitive right or wrong culture within reasonable limits. Ben explains that the fundamental determinant of firm or weak culture is the alignment between what those at the top envision for the culture and what the employees desire from their jobs.Venturing further into company culture, we explore the controversial topic of assessing potential employees based on cultural fit. How can this practice be a competitive advantage yet become a dangerous pitfall?Ben and I also explore the risks of cloning, potential discrimination and the possible loss of competitive edge.OxTalks is produced and managed by Urban Podcasts.