Naked at the Top

Belonging, identity, power, and the courage to build something new.In this episode of Naked at the Top, Aleyx sits down with Christopher Asahara for a deeply honest conversation about growing up between cultures, being told you are not quite one of “us”, and learning how to turn difference into advantage rather than disadvantage.Christopher shares what it feels like to be an outsider in certain rooms, how global perspective reshapes the way you see leadership, and why narrow “America First” thinking often fails in a world built on connection, collaboration, and cultural intelligence. From community building and leadership during moments of social tension, to speaking up, taking risks, and trusting your own judgement, this episode explores what it really means to lead with both confidence and conscience.The conversation moves through entrepreneurship, imposter syndrome, redundancy, reinvention, and the responsibility that comes with influence. There are stories of starting again, building teams, protecting people, and staying calm when everything around you is moving fast.At its core, this episode is about identity, voice, and learning to stand comfortably in your own power — not by dominating, but by serving, listening, and building communities that last.📲 Connect with Naked at the Top: 🎥 YouTube – https://youtube.com/@NakedAtTheTop?sub_confirmation=1 💼 LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/naked-at-the-top 📸 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/nakedatthetoppodcast 🎧 Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/7oepK8jODbGvwsCzPbMBeY 🍎 Apple Podcasts – https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/naked-at-the-top/id1741310522 🌐 Website – https://www.nakedatthetop.com

sterclass in human-first leadership, honest business building, and why caring is not a soft skill — it’s a strategic advantage.Aleyx Ward sits down with Damien Gooden, CEO of HR Central, to unpack what it really takes to build a business where people stay, trust grows, and leadership doesn’t hide behind titles. From accidentally becoming a CEO to navigating COVID, firing customers, and building deep loyalty inside teams, Damien shares real stories from two decades in business.The conversation moves beyond textbook leadership and into the messy, human reality of running companies. Damien explains why subscription revenue nearly stalled growth, why referrals beat control, and why focusing on outcomes — not micromanagement — is the only way to scale without burning out.There are powerful reflections on parenting, culture, authenticity, and mental health, including phone-free dinners, getting teenagers to talk, and why men need spaces where it’s safe to open up. Damien also breaks down Radical Candour with real-world examples that every leader will recognise.If you’re building a business, leading a team, or trying to be a better human while doing both — this episode is for you.📲 Connect with Naked at the Top: 🎥 YouTube – https://youtube.com/@NakedAtTheTop?sub_confirmation=1 💼 LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/naked-at-the-top 📸 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/nakedatthetoppodcast 🎧 Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/7oepK8jODbGvwsCzPbMBeY 🍎 Apple Podcasts – https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/naked-at-the-top/id1741310522 🌐 Website – https://www.nakedatthetop.com

What does it look like when an entrepreneur applies business discipline to comedy – and comedy thinking to business?In this episode of Naked at the Top, Morry Morgan shares the unconventional path that took him from an only-child upbringing and global travel, through China’s fast-moving business culture, and into building one of the most unexpected ventures in Australia: a comedy school and conference that shouldn’t exist – but does.This conversation is about preparation, courage, and following ideas all the way through. Morry unpacks how five minutes on stage became the turning point for an entirely new career direction, why breaking comedy’s rules unlocked commercial opportunity, and how creating something niche can actually grow the wider economy.We explore the reality of fast-speed living, the mental cost of always being “on”, and the resilience required when momentum disappears overnight. Morry speaks candidly about burnout, anxiety, fasting, and the mindset shift that turned a breakdown into a breakthrough.If you’ve ever wondered whether your strangest idea might actually be your most viable one – this episode will challenge how you think about preparation, energy, and commitment. This is a conversation for founders, creatives, and leaders who don’t fit neatly into one box – and don’t want to.📲 Connect with Naked at the Top: 🎥 YouTube – https://youtube.com/@NakedAtTheTop?sub_confirmation=1 💼 LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/naked-at-the-top 📸 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/nakedatthetoppodcast 🎧 Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/7oepK8jODbGvwsCzPbMBeY 🍎 Apple Podcasts – https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/naked-at-the-top/id1741310522 🌐 Website – https://www.nakedatthetop.com

Some careers begin with a plan. Others begin with a quiet decision made far earlier than anyone expects.In this episode of Naked at the Top, Aleyx sits down with Colleen Callander — a leader who started working in retail at just 16 and went on to become CEO of two of Australia’s most iconic fashion brands. But this conversation isn’t about polished confidence or highlight-reel success.Colleen speaks candidly about imposter syndrome that never truly disappeared, burnout that hit at the peak of her career, and the internal stories that quietly shape how leaders show up every day. She shares why confidence isn’t something you’re born with, but something you build through action, reflection, and repetition.This episode explores leadership through a deeply human lens — kindness as a strength, values as decision-makers, and environments where people genuinely want to do their best work. From redefining success to rebuilding after burnout, Colleen offers grounded insight for anyone navigating leadership, ambition, or self-belief.If you’ve ever looked capable on the outside while questioning yourself on the inside, this episode will resonate deeply.📲 Connect with Naked at the Top: 🎥 YouTube – https://youtube.com/@NakedAtTheTop?sub_confirmation=1 💼 LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/naked-at-the-top 📸 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/nakedatthetoppodcast 🎧 Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/7oepK8jODbGvwsCzPbMBeY 🍎 Apple Podcasts – https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/naked-at-the-top/id1741310522 🌐 Website – https://www.nakedatthetop.com

Alan Gill brings a rare mix of sharp business instinct and playful curiosity to this conversation. As co-founder of Choice Energy, one of the fastest-growing energy businesses in AsiaPac, he has lived through the chaos, pressure and exhilaration of scaling at speed. Yet beneath the targets and milestones sits a leader who still draws sharks in meetings, turns corporate stresses into comedy, and uses creativity as a tool for clarity, connection and calm. This episode reveals the human side of ambition, from startup survival to finding joy in the everyday.Aleyx and Alan explore the early days of building a business with no safety net, raising a young family at the same time, and carrying the weight of responsibility when people are relying on you for their livelihood. They dive into leadership identity, humour as a resilience strategy, navigating growth, and why the best insights often come from childlike curiosity rather than boardroom bravado.Through stories about sharks, toilet echo disasters, corporate lessons, cultural contrasts and the people who keep him grounded, Alan gives a refreshingly honest view of what leadership feels like behind the scenes. Not polished. Not filtered. Simply human. This is an episode for anyone building something meaningful while trying to stay connected to who they really are.Alan’s reflections land with warmth, wisdom and a healthy dose of mischief. If you’re growing a business, leading people or simply trying to make sense of ambition while still living a life that feels like yours, this conversation will stay with you.📲 Connect with Naked at the Top: 🎥 YouTube – https://youtube.com/@NakedAtTheTop?sub_confirmation=1 💼 LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/naked-at-the-top 📸 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/nakedatthetoppodcast 🎧 Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/7oepK8jODbGvwsCzPbMBeY 🍎 Apple Podcasts – https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/naked-at-the-top/id1741310522 🌐 Website – https://www.nakedatthetop.com

Authentic leadership grows from the unseen parts of a life. In this episode, Seung Paik reveals the moments that shaped his identity long before he ever stepped into a leadership role. He shares the immigrant values that built his work ethic, the twenty-five years of military service that taught him discipline and humility, and the internal questions that guided him through purpose, crisis and transformation.Seung speaks openly about identity over image, the privilege of leading others, how economics sharpens decision-making and the cost–benefit thinking that guides meaningful life choices. He explores the role relationships play in shaping markets, why transactional leadership falls short and how transformation always begins at the top. This episode invites you to slow down, go inward and see leadership as something built through service, gratitude, humility and truth delivered with compassion. It is a conversation for anyone searching for clarity, direction or a more authentic way to lead.📲 Connect with Naked at the Top: 🎥 YouTube – https://youtube.com/@NakedAtTheTop?sub_confirmation=1 💼 LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/naked-at-the-top 📸 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/nakedatthetoppodcast 🎧 Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/7oepK8jODbGvwsCzPbMBeY 🍎 Apple Podcasts – https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/naked-at-the-top/id1741310522 🌐 Website – https://www.nakedatthetop.com

When tragedy strikes, some people crumble. Others rebuild the system that failed them. Naomi from Care Advisory is one of those people. After witnessing first-hand how broken the aged care industry can be, she set out to create change – building a business grounded in ethics, transparency, and trust.In this episode of Naked at the Top, Naomi shares how she turned heartbreak into purpose, defied expectations, and created a business model that puts people before profit. She opens up about the personal sacrifices behind her success – from single parenting and burnout to late ADHD diagnosis – and how she learned to lead with courage, compassion, and conviction.If you’ve ever felt torn between doing what’s right and doing what’s easy, Naomi’s story will remind you what real leadership looks like.🎧 Subscribe to Naked at the Top for honest conversations with leaders who are redefining success through authenticity, purpose, and heart.📲 Connect with Naked at the Top: 🎥 YouTube – https://youtube.com/@NakedAtTheTop?sub_confirmation=1 💼 LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/naked-at-the-top 📸 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/nakedatthetoppodcast 🎧 Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/7oepK8jODbGvwsCzPbMBeY 🍎 Apple Podcasts – https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/naked-at-the-top/id1741310522 🌐 Website – https://www.nakedatthetop.com

In this episode of Naked at the Top, host Aleyx Ward sits down with Stephen Luxmore, founder of Your HR Team, to explore how growth mindset, self-awareness and authenticity are redefining modern leadership.From starting out as a gardener to becoming a respected HR consultant, Stephen shares how moments of doubt and stereotype shaped his purpose. He talks openly about creating psychological safety, breaking corporate conformity, and why simplicity wins when it comes to building a people-first culture.Together, Aleyx and Stephen uncover what it means to lead with courage and kindness, how to stay authentic in a world of business buzzwords, and why humour, humility and curiosity always outlast control.This conversation is packed with insight for founders, HR professionals and anyone leading teams through change — a reminder that leadership isn’t about power, it’s about people.📲 Connect with Naked at the Top: 🎥 YouTube – https://youtube.com/@NakedAtTheTop?sub_confirmation=1 💼 LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/naked-at-the-top 📸 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/nakedatthetoppodcast 🎧 Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/7oepK8jODbGvwsCzPbMBeY 🍎 Apple Podcasts – https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/naked-at-the-top/id1741310522 🌐 Website – https://www.nakedatthetop.com

Advisory boards might sound like something reserved for big corporates – but for founders and entrepreneurs, they’re one of the most powerful growth levers you’ve never used.In this episode of Naked at the Top, we uncover how founders, leaders, and business owners can use advisory boards to sharpen decisions, strengthen strategy, and accelerate personal growth.Our guest dives into the hidden psychology of leadership, exploring how loneliness, self-doubt, and risk-taking shape the entrepreneurial journey. From career pivots to neuroscience, EQ versus IQ, and the surprising impact of adventure on leadership, this episode gives a masterclass in how to grow both a business and a mindset.You’ll also discover how boards can transform culture, expand thinking, and hold leaders accountable in ways that traditional management structures can’t.Whether you’re scaling fast, starting fresh, or just feeling stuck – this is the conversation that’ll help you see your business, and your leadership, differently.📲 Connect with Naked at the Top: 🎥 YouTube – https://youtube.com/@NakedAtTheTop?sub_confirmation=1 💼 LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/naked-at-the-top 📸 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/nakedatthetoppodcast 🎧 Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/7oepK8jODbGvwsCzPbMBeY 🍎 Apple Podcasts – https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/naked-at-the-top/id1741310522 🌐 Website – https://www.nakedatthetop.com

From a second-hand mower to a nationwide empire of 5,500 franchises – Jim Penman’s story is proof that purpose and persistence can outlast any plan. In this episode of Naked at the Top, Jim shares how a small lawn mowing business turned into one of the world’s most successful franchise systems, and why his mission was never about money – it was about funding research that might just change the world.We unpack what it really takes to scale a values-led business: obsessive improvement, servant leadership, and an unshakable focus on helping others succeed. Jim reveals how giving his personal phone number to every franchisee isn’t crazy – it’s how he stays connected to the people who matter most. From there, his philosophy of “franchisees first” has redefined what leadership looks like.He talks candidly about faith, failure, family, and fulfilment – why wealth without purpose feels empty, and how raising grounded kids is the ultimate measure of success. There’s no polished PR here, just raw honesty from a man who built a movement by caring deeply, thinking differently, and walking the walk.Whether you’re leading a team, building a business, or chasing your next idea, this episode will leave you rethinking what success truly means – and how small, daily improvements can build something extraordinary.📲 Connect with Naked at the Top: 🎥 YouTube – https://youtube.com/@NakedAtTheTop?sub_confirmation=1 💼 LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/naked-at-the-top 📸 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/nakedatthetoppodcast 🎧 Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/7oepK8jODbGvwsCzPbMBeY 🍎 Apple Podcasts – https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/naked-at-the-top/id1741310522 🌐 Website – https://www.nakedatthetop.com

Mindset is the single biggest factor in whether your business thrives or collapses - yet it is also the part most entrepreneurs get wrong.In this Naked at the Top episode, Alex Sy joins us to unpack why mindset is the root of business success. He shares his journey from hitting rock bottom to mentoring others, and why many owners sabotage themselves with fake goals, poor retention strategies, and a short-term obsession with cutting costs.We dive into what truly drives sustainable growth: understanding customers, building resilience, and recognising when closing a business is actually the smartest move. Alex also reveals how mentorship shaped his path, and the hard truths leaders need to face if they want to keep growing.If you have ever wondered why your business feels stuck despite all the effort, this episode will challenge your assumptions and give you practical ways to rethink your strategy.Hit subscribe for more real, unfiltered business lessons - no fluff, no ego.🔗 More from Naked at the Top: 📌 Subscribe on YouTube: https://youtube.com/@NakedAtTheTop?sub_confirmation=1 🎧 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/3zNkgJ0CNjPqM0hF7pGmWz 🎧 Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/naked-at-the-top/id1786932272 💡 Follow us on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/naked-at-the-top📲 Connect with Naked at the Top: 🎥 YouTube – https://youtube.com/@NakedAtTheTop?sub_confirmation=1 💼 LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/naked-at-the-top 📸 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/nakedatthetoppodcast 🎧 Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/7oepK8jODbGvwsCzPbMBeY 🍎 Apple Podcasts – https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/naked-at-the-top/id1741310522 🌐 Website – https://www.nakedatthetop.com

What does it really take to build a business you love without losing yourself along the way? In this Naked at the Top episode, Kellie Simpson shares her journey from corporate burnout to building a thriving, values-led business as a Legal VA.She opens up about the breaking points that forced change, the importance of choosing clients wisely, and the mindset shifts that helped her go from surviving to thriving. Expect raw honesty, practical strategies, and plenty of inspiration for anyone looking to grow their business on their own terms.From pricing red flags and firing bad clients, to building dream teams remotely and setting healthy boundaries, Kellie’s story is packed with lessons that every entrepreneur can take away. This is about more than business growth – it’s about creating a life and business that truly align.If you’re an entrepreneur, leader, or anyone feeling stuck in the grind, Kellie’s journey will give you the tools and courage to take action.#Entrepreneurship #Leadership #BusinessSuccess #Startup #Growth #Mindset #Teamwork #Productivity #ResilienceSubscribe now so you don’t miss what’s coming: https://www.youtube.com/@NakedattheTop?sub_confirmation=1 Special thanks to our sponsors, Core Story – find out more at https://corestory.com.au Aleyx on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aleyxward/ Catch us on your favourite podcast directory: https://nakedatthetop.buzzsprout.com/share📲 Connect with Naked at the Top: 🎥 YouTube – https://youtube.com/@NakedAtTheTop?sub_confirmation=1 💼 LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/naked-at-the-top 📸 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/nakedatthetoppodcast 🎧 Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/7oepK8jODbGvwsCzPbMBeY 🍎 Apple Podcasts – https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/naked-at-the-top/id1741310522 🌐 Website – https://www.nakedatthetop.com

What does it really take to build wealth without losing yourself along the way? Tal Evans shares his powerful story of growing up in a poor migrant family, and how those early struggles shaped his resilience, mindset, and approach to business.From starting with nothing to creating lasting success, Tal opens up about the lessons he learned through failure, leadership challenges, and building teams that thrive. He breaks down what resilience actually looks like when things get tough, and why mentorship, planning, and strategy are non-negotiables for any entrepreneur.This episode is packed with honest reflections and practical wisdom – from the dark side of micromanagement to why passion alone isn’t enough, and even how a prank turned into a long-running tradition in his business journey. Tal’s story proves that success is never just about money – it’s about purpose, people, and the courage to do things differently.If you’re starting your own business or leading a team, this conversation will give you real, straight-talking insights that you won’t find in a textbook.Subscribe now so you don’t miss what’s coming: https://www.youtube.com/@NakedattheTop?sub_confirmation=1Special thanks to our sponsors, Core Story – find out more at https://corestory.com.au Aleyx on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aleyxward/Catch us on your favourite podcast directory: https://nakedatthetop.buzzsprout.com/share📲 Connect with Naked at the Top: 🎥 YouTube – https://youtube.com/@NakedAtTheTop?sub_confirmation=1 💼 LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/naked-at-the-top 📸 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/nakedatthetoppodcast 🎧 Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/7oepK8jODbGvwsCzPbMBeY 🍎 Apple Podcasts – https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/naked-at-the-top/id1741310522 🌐 Website – https://www.nakedatthetop.com

What does it take to lead with joy, grit, and zero ego—even when life tries to crush you?Chris Christofi has built an empire from the ground up. But it’s not the hustle that defines him—it’s the heart. In this episode of Naked at the Top, Chris shares how being fired, losing it all, and even getting banned from motorcycles taught him everything he needed to know about leadership, humility, and human connection.This conversation dives into what culture really means (hint: it’s not ping pong tables), how trust changes everything, and why fun isn’t just a bonus—it’s necessary for performance. Chris tells raw, hilarious, and inspiring stories from his journey, including being recognised by a homeless man, cleaning his own office mess, and the unexpected legacy that now guides his every move.If you're a founder, a people leader, or someone who’s trying to build something real—you need this episode. It’s a roadmap for leading with both steel and softness. And it will make you laugh, think, and maybe even change how you show up at work.Subscribe now so you don’t miss what’s coming: https://www.youtube.com/@nakedatthetop?sub_confirmation=1Special thanks to our sponsors, Core Story – find out more at https://corestory.com.auAleyx on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aleyxward/ Catch us on your favourite podcast directory: https://nakedatthetop.buzzsprout.com/share 📲 Connect with Naked at the Top: 🎥 YouTube – https://youtube.com/@NakedAtTheTop?sub_confirmation=1 💼 LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/naked-at-the-top 📸 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/nakedatthetoppodcast 🎧 Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/7oepK8jODbGvwsCzPbMBeY 🍎 Apple Podcasts – https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/naked-at-the-top/id1741310522 🌐 Website – https://www.nakedatthetop.com

Zoe Goodhardt doesn’t just understand growth—she builds it from the inside out. In this high-impact episode of Naked at the Top, Zoe shares what it really takes to lead modern marketing, shape high-performing teams, and strip back the fluff in business. With a background that spans bold career moves and brand-defining moments, she offers grounded insight into leadership, clarity, and what separates real growth from empty noise.This conversation isn’t your typical marketing talk. Zoe challenges the culture of fake empathy and political correctness that often dilutes genuine connection and leadership. Instead, she makes the case for direct communication, values-based hiring, and a relentless focus on performance over polish. If you’ve ever questioned how to build a brand without losing your soul—or a team without losing your edge—this is your episode.We go deep into the psychology behind sales, the hidden strengths of hospitality training, and why women in leadership need to stop shrinking themselves with self-deprecating language. Zoe shares personal stories, sharp strategy, and the mindset shifts that took her from imposter syndrome to strategic clarity.Whether you're a founder, CMO, or just trying to level up your influence and impact, this episode is packed with moments that land. No jargon. No hype. Just clarity, strategy, and a powerful reminder to lead like you mean it.Subscribe to catch more: https://www.youtube.com/@nakedatthetop?sub_confirmation=1 Special thanks to our sponsors, Core Story – find out more at https://corestory.com.auAleyx on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aleyxward/ Catch us on your favourite podcast directory: https://nakedatthetop.buzzsprout.com/share📲 Connect with Naked at the Top: 🎥 YouTube – https://youtube.com/@NakedAtTheTop?sub_confirmation=1 💼 LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/naked-at-the-top 📸 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/nakedatthetoppodcast 🎧 Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/7oepK8jODbGvwsCzPbMBeY 🍎 Apple Podcasts – https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/naked-at-the-top/id1741310522 🌐 Website – https://www.nakedatthetop.com

What does it really take to lead with heart - without losing your edge?In this emotionally charged and fiercely practical episode, we meet Ronnie Lewis, a CEO and founder whose leadership philosophy is anything but conventional. Raised on courage and built through loss, Ronnie doesn’t just talk values - he lives them. From moments of sharp self-awareness to radically honest hiring practices, this conversation strips back the facade of modern leadership and invites us into something more grounded, more human.You’ll hear why he asks interview questions that leave candidates stunned. Why he believes trust is everything - and what happens when it breaks. And how an unexpected life moment gave him a lesson in priorities that still guides his business today. Whether you’re a founder, a team leader, or just tired of the leadership buzzwords, this episode will reconnect you to what actually matters.We also unpack how to spot the wrong people early, celebrate tiny wins like they’re huge, and build cultures where no one hides behind a title. Ronnie’s stories are raw, funny, and rich with insight. This one hits hard and stays with you.Watch now on YouTube, subscribe, and lead like you mean it: https://www.youtube.com/@nakedatthetop?sub_confirmation=1Special thanks to our sponsors, Core Story – find out more at https://corestory.com.auAleyx on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aleyxward/📲 Connect with Naked at the Top: 🎥 YouTube – https://youtube.com/@NakedAtTheTop?sub_confirmation=1 💼 LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/naked-at-the-top 📸 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/nakedatthetoppodcast 🎧 Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/7oepK8jODbGvwsCzPbMBeY 🍎 Apple Podcasts – https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/naked-at-the-top/id1741310522 🌐 Website – https://www.nakedatthetop.com

Mia Bowyer doesn’t lead the way most people expect. She blends AI with authenticity, automates systems while holding space for real connection, and built a thriving business without fitting into the traditional CEO mould. In this episode of Naked at the Top, Mia opens up about what it really takes to automate your life without losing your humanity.Named Young Entrepreneur of the Year and founder of Automate Social, Mia has worked with global brands and led a fast-growing team while staying grounded in creativity, vulnerability and humour. We dive into her journey from PR at Ogilvy to remote business building, breathwork circles and even a stand-up comedy set. Her honesty is disarming - and her insights into leadership and life are deeply refreshing.You’ll learn how Mia uses her “automate, delegate, eliminate” model to scale sustainably, why raising your standards starts with yourself, and how tech tools like Notion and Make.com are reshaping the way we build businesses. She also gets real about people-pleasing, team feedback, and what it takes to stop hiding and start leading with clarity.This is a conversation for anyone feeling overwhelmed by digital tools, unsure how to delegate, or stuck in the belief that leadership has to look a certain way. It’s a reminder that real leadership isn’t about being perfect - it’s about being real.Subscribe for more: https://www.youtube.com/@nakedatthetop?sub_confirmation=1 Special thanks to our sponsors, Core Story – find out more at https://corestory.com.au Aleyx on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aleyxward/ Catch us on your favourite podcast directory: https://nakedatthetop.buzzsprout.com/share📲 Connect with Naked at the Top: 🎥 YouTube – https://youtube.com/@NakedAtTheTop?sub_confirmation=1 💼 LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/naked-at-the-top 📸 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/nakedatthetoppodcast 🎧 Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/7oepK8jODbGvwsCzPbMBeY 🍎 Apple Podcasts – https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/naked-at-the-top/id1741310522 🌐 Website – https://www.nakedatthetop.com

What happens when a messaging expert and leadership strategist decides to flip the script on herself?In this special intro episode, Aleyx Ward—the voice behind Naked at the Top—steps into the guest seat. Interviewed by future guest Mia Bowyer, this conversation strips away the brand polish and reveals the emotional engine behind the podcast. From childhood survival patterns to hard-won clarity, Aleyx opens up about the identity shifts, leadership battles, and personal breakthroughs that shaped her work and worldview.This episode isn’t just a backstory. It’s a raw, resonant exploration of what it means to lead without hiding. Aleyx gets honest about the disconnect between executive polish and real connection, and the moment she realised she couldn’t keep building her business from behind a mask. She shares how childhood conditioning created a leadership style she had to outgrow—and how vulnerability became her greatest business asset.You’ll hear how Naked at the Top was born not from a strategy session, but from a deep personal reckoning. The result is a show, a philosophy, and a platform that makes space for leaders to be fully seen.If you’ve ever struggled with self-editing, leadership loneliness, or feeling like you're two different people at work and home—this episode will hit home.🔔 Subscribe to the channel: https://www.youtube.com/@nakedatthetop?sub_confirmation=1🎧 Listen to the podcast: https://nakedatthetop.buzzsprout.com/share 💼 Connect with Aleyx: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aleyxward/ 🌐 Explore more from Core Story: https://corestory.com.au📲 Connect with Naked at the Top: 🎥 YouTube – https://youtube.com/@NakedAtTheTop?sub_confirmation=1 💼 LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/naked-at-the-top 📸 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/nakedatthetoppodcast 🎧 Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/7oepK8jODbGvwsCzPbMBeY 🍎 Apple Podcasts – https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/naked-at-the-top/id1741310522 🌐 Website – https://www.nakedatthetop.com

📲 Connect with Naked at the Top: 🎥 YouTube – https://youtube.com/@NakedAtTheTop?sub_confirmation=1 💼 LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/naked-at-the-top 📸 Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/nakedatthetoppodcast 🎧 Spotify – https://open.spotify.com/show/7oepK8jODbGvwsCzPbMBeY 🍎 Apple Podcasts – https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/naked-at-the-top/id1741310522 🌐 Website – https://www.nakedatthetop.com