‘What It's Taken’ by David and Jenny Harkin

In this episode we’re joined by Agnes Cserhati, internationally recognised leadership strategist, keynote speaker, and author of the bestselling book The Performance Advantage. With more than 25 years of global experience across over 100 countries, Agnes has worked with Fortune 500 companies, UN agencies and global institutions to help leaders and organisations perform at the highest level.Agnes began her entrepreneurial journey early, founding and selling her first company at just 22 in post-communist Hungary. Since then she has built a global career advising senior executives and leadership teams on how to navigate complexity, lead with clarity and create cultures that sustain performance over time. As the Founder and CEO of AC PowerCoaching and the creator of The Performance Advantage® methodology, she challenges a common assumption about leadership success.Her belief is simple but powerful: high performance is not talent. It is a system.In this conversation we explore: – What truly separates high-performing leaders from the rest – Why performance under pressure is built, not inherited – How leaders can move beyond motivation to measurable results – And the mindset shifts required to build resilient, high-performing teamsAgnes also shares insights from her bestselling book, outlining the principles that help leaders elevate their impact and sustain excellence in an era of constant change.

In this episode, we’re joined by Aatif Hassan, the founder and chairman of Dukes Education, whose story moves in that quiet, surprising way where one decision changes the entire direction of a life.Aatif grew up in West London, navigating school with dyslexia and ADHD, feeling the familiar frustration of a system that didn’t quite know what to do with him. Everything shifted when his father made a huge sacrifice to send him to a small independent school where, for the first time, he felt seen. Passionate teachers. A nurturing structure. Space to breathe a bit. It set the foundation for everything that followed.He threw himself into rugby and the army cadets, eventually commissioning as a British Army Officer. The military sharpened the edges of his discipline, taught him how to lead, how to work, how to hold himself to a higher standard. From there he moved into finance, carving out a first-class academic record and an award-winning career.And then life changed again. A cluster of tragic personal events forced a kind of reckoning, pulling him towards a new purpose: empowering young people through education.Today Aatif chairs multiple organisations, including Cavendish Education and the Dukes Foundation, and serves as a trustee for the British Asian Trust and The Queen’s Reading Room. His influence stretches across schools, charities and policy, yet his motivation remains rooted in that early experience of what education can be when it’s done with care.In this conversation, we explore: 💡The turning points that shaped his philosophy on leadership 💡 How adversity rewires ambition 💡What it means to build an organisation with purpose, not ego 💡Why giving young people the right environment can change everything

In this episode, we sit down with Sally Orange MBE, someone who somehow manages to be both utterly extraordinary and completely human at the same time.A former British Army Major, world record–breaking endurance athlete, mental health campaigner and fundraiser, Sally has built a life around service, resilience and a kind of stubborn optimism that pulls people in. She’s completed some of the toughest endurance challenges on the planet, from the Marathon des Sables to the Race Across America, alongside more than 80 marathons, 8 full Ironmans and even a marathon on every continent dressed as different pieces of fruit. And that’s just the shortlist.But the real story sits underneath all that, the personal journey through chronic depression and anxiety that has shaped the work she does today. It’s the reason she speaks so openly, and so generously, about what it takes to keep going when everything in you is telling you to stop.Across three decades, she’s raised over £800,000 for charities, served on the front line as an Army physiotherapist, inspired young people through the Army Cadet Force and championed countless mental health causes. Her warmth and humour, even in the heaviest conversations, make her message land in a way that stays with you.In this conversation, we explore: ⭐️The real meaning of endurance, beyond medals or miles ⭐️ How to be resilient without losing compassion ⭐️ Why mental health is everyone’s business ⭐️ And the small, practical things that help you rebuild when life eventually knocks you flatA powerful, honest and uplifting episode with one of the most inspiring voices in the UK today.

In this episode, we’re joined by Edwina Dunn OBE, one of the most influential leaders in data and a pioneer of transformational change.Edwina helped revolutionise the world of retail and consumer goods when her company Dunnhumby developed Tesco Clubcard and global loyalty programmes that reshaped how brands understand and serve customers.Today, she is the Founder and Chair of The Female Lead, an educational foundation celebrating the achievements and diversity of women shaping our world. With a social community of nearly 9 million, they use data to uncover the real challenges women face and work with businesses and governments to drive practical change inside workplaces and across society.She’s also Director of Tandem Agency, a creative agency that helps brands connect with the most powerful consumer force on the planet: women. Through storytelling, talent partnerships and influence, they’re turning cultural energy into measurable impact.In this conversation, we explore:➡️ What true loyalty means and how data can make business more human➡️ The journey from disruptive startup to global impact➡️ Why representation and equality matter for everyone➡️ What it really takes to stay ahead as a leader today A fascinating conversation with a genuinely transformational figure in business and social change.

This episode, we are joined by twins Julius and Fabian Cowdrey, boys from the Cowdrey cricket family. With backgrounds spanning entrepreneurship, music, professional sport, and even reality TV, the Cowdrey brothers have channelled their diverse experiences into a new shared mission as co-founders of Joyna - a community platform built to help people connect, grow, and find joy in an increasingly disconnected world. ✨Julius and Fabian open up about their journeys, from the pressures of legacy and performance to the purpose they’ve found in building something that celebrates authenticity and human connection.They share:🔹 The courage to pivot careers and start again🔹 The role of energy and mindset in building something new🔹 How to overcome challenges while staying true to your purpose🔹 What it really takes to create a connection in a digital ageFrom lessons in resilience to insights on modern community-building, this episode is packed with inspiration for anyone looking to combine passion with purpose.

We kick off the new season of What It's Taken, with Sue Atkins - internationally recognised parenting expert, bestselling author, broadcaster and leading voice in modern family life.A familiar face on ITV’s This Morning, Good Morning Britain, Jeremy Vine on 5 and BBC Radio, Sue has spent her career empowering parents to raise happy, confident and resilient children, without judgement or pressure. She has worked with Fortune 500 companies, celebrities and global brands, including fronting Disney’s ‘Gift of Play’ and ‘Time to Shine’ campaigns.Her bestselling books - Parenting Made Easy, Raising Happy Children for Dummies and Navigating the Digital Jungle - are packed with practical tools that help families thrive in a rapidly changing world. Through journals, roadmaps, podcasts and downloads, Sue’s impact reaches millions across the globe.✨ Whether you’re a parent, educator or simply passionate about child development, this episode offers wisdom for us all.Tune in to explore:• Why connection should always come before correction• How to build children’s confidence and self-esteem from day one• Parenting in the digital age • What it means to Pause to Ponder what really matters growing up

In this special wrap-up episode of What It’s Taken, hosts David and Jenny Harkin reflect on the incredible journey of Series 1 - a collection of nine conversations with extraordinary guests from around the world and from all walks of life.Across entrepreneurs, educators, creatives, and leaders, one message rang loud and clear: the power to lean in to challenges, opportunities, and even the moments that test us most.In this reflective and inspiring finale, David and Jenny share:The biggest lessons learned from their guests - and from hosting the series itselfHow the stories have inspired their own thinking about leadership, creativity, and resilienceA glimpse into what’s next for Series 2 - with new voices, fresh perspectives, and even bolder conversations If you’ve enjoyed the journey so far, this episode is the perfect chance to pause, reflect, and lean in one more time.

🎙️ In this episode of What It’s Taken, we’re joined by Tom Munday – entrepreneur, storyteller, and one of the founders of LUX Rewards, a tech start-up in the payment-linked rewards space.Tom helped scale LUX from £0 to over £600k MRR, playing a pivotal role in its growth and ultimate acquisition. Known for outmanoeuvring larger sales teams with creativity, persistence, and genuine human connection, Tom brings a refreshing take on how to stand out in a noisy, tech-driven world.Now, he’s passionate about showing businesses how to thrive in the age of AI by leaning into authenticity, personality, and the power of human relationships. Never far from a camera, whiteboard, or quirky prop, Tom’s energy is as engaging as his insights. ✨Whether you’re in start-ups, sales, or simply curious about how creativity can drive real impact, this is one not to miss.Tune in to discover:How to scale a start-up against the oddsWhy creativity and persistence beat size and scaleWhat it really takes to build authentic connections in the age of AI

🎙️What It's Taken – Episode 008: Jeroen van de Waal – 'Work-Life Flow' In this episode of What It s Taken, we’re joined by Jeroen van de Waal – mechanical engineer turned global CEO, and now a passionate ocean conservationist, educator, and CEO and founder of the BlueBeat Group.After a decade leading multinational companies in Asia, Jeroen took a bold step away from conventional success to focus on what matters most: protecting our oceans and inspiring the next generation to take action. Now, through his ventures including OrcaNation and The Reef Company, he’s building a global movement around sustainability, innovation, and the transformative potential of the blue economy.From boardrooms to coral reefs, Jeroen brings together world leaders, businesses, and young people to create lasting impact – proving that profit and planet can thrive together. Whether you’re interested in sustainability, education, or bold leadership, this episode will challenge your thinking and stir your sense of purpose.Tune in to discover:How a career pivot led to a planet-first missionWhy educating young people is key to real changeWhat it really takes to drive sustainable innovation at scale

In this episode of What It's Taken, we’re joined by Hugo Mitchell-Heggs MBE, Royal Navy Marine Engineering Officer, submariner, and founder of HMS Oardacious – the fastest serving military team to row across the Atlantic Ocean.With 15 years spent operating nuclear reactors and ship systems on submarines in some of the world’s most extreme environments, Hugo’s story is one of extraordinary endurance. Twice rowing the Atlantic Ocean—facing towering waves, capsizes, salt sores, and sleep deprivation—he’s pushed physical and mental limits to new heights.Beyond his adventures, Hugo is a passionate advocate for mental health and wellbeing in the Defence community. He chairs the HMS Oardacious Submariner Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund and serves as Head of Human Performance for the Royal Navy, focusing on building resilience and helping personnel thrive under pressure. Whether you’re inspired by tales of adventure, leadership, or mental toughness, this episode delivers powerful insights on overcoming adversity and driving cultural change.Tune in to discover:The mindset required to endure extreme physical and psychological challengesHow Hugo’s ocean rowing campaigns are transforming mental health supportWhat it really takes to lead and inspire in high-pressure environments

🎙️ What It's Taken – Episode 006: Tom Whittle, Founder of Mission – 'Becoming Incredibly Comfortable With Failure 'In this episode of What It's Taken, we’re joined by Tom Whittle, the record-breaking adventurer and founder of Mission – the natural energy drinks brand fuelling everyone from Premier League clubs to Formula One drivers.Tom’s story is far from ordinary. He left a Magic Circle law career behind to cycle the length of South America (12,500km in 300 days), followed by 17 marathons in 10 days – a journey that led to a Guinness World Record and the discovery that would spark Mission’s creation.From testing performance teas during a brutal crossing of Iceland, to building a business that’s now sold over 10 million units and is redefining how we fuel our bodies – Tom’s journey is packed with grit, purpose, and ambition. Whether you’re into sport, entrepreneurship, or simply love stories of pushing the limits – this is not one to miss.Tune in to discover:The mindset behind leaving corporate life to chase adventureHow Mission is tackling the global caffeine and sugar crisisWhat it really takes to build a performance-led brand from scratch

🎙️ What It's Taken – Episode 005: Chris & Jess Woodward-Jones, Co-Founders of Vizzy – ‘Polite Persistence’In this episode of What It's Taken, we’re joined by Chris and Jess Woodward-Jones, the dynamic husband-and-wife team behind Vizzy – a platform transforming the way early career talent is seen and hired.With backgrounds in consultancy, marketing, and change management, Chris and Jess share the story of how they built Vizzy to bring the CV into the 21st century – helping people express who they really are, and enabling businesses to hire based on potential, not just experience.From the importance of energy in leadership to the personal and professional challenges they’ve overcome, this episode offers an honest look at what it takes to launch a business with purpose and stay grounded while doing it. Whether you’re passionate about innovation, people, or building something from scratch, this one’s for you.💭 Tune in to discover:How Vizzy is giving diverse talent a platform to shineWhy energy matters just as much as strategyWhat lifelong learning looks like for modern founders

 What It's Taken – Episode 004: Sir Clive Woodward – 'Passion for Knowledge'In this episode of What It's Taken, we sit down with Sir Clive Woodward, the visionary coach who led England to their historic 2003 Rugby World Cup victory. A former international player turned pioneering leader, Sir Clive shares insights into the mindset, preparation, and innovation that propelled his team to the pinnacle of world rugby.Beyond the pitch, Sir Clive has applied his principles of high performance to roles such as Director of Sport for Team GB and as a consultant in business and leadership. His unwavering “passion for knowledge” underscores the importance of continuous learning and adaptability in achieving excellence. ✨Whether you’re in sport, business, or any field striving for high performance, this conversation offers valuable lessons on leadership, resilience, and the pursuit of success.

🎙️ What It's Taken – Episode 003: Dr Sherylle Calder, Sports Scientist – “Maintain Forever Learning”In this episode of What It's Taken, we speak with Dr Sherylle Calder, renowned sports scientist and creator of EyeGym – a groundbreaking programme that trains visual and cognitive performance for athletes and professionals alike.A former international hockey player with a PhD in visual performance, Dr Calder has worked with elite teams across rugby, cricket, golf,Formula 1. She's the only woman to have worked with the All Blacks, South Africa, and English rugby team, helping the latter two win World Cups in 2003 and 2007. Known as “The Eye Lady”, she shares how training the eyes and brain can unlock faster decisions, sharper focus, and better results – both on and off the field.Rooted in her belief to “Maintain Forever Learning”, this conversation explores the mindset and methods behind sustained high performance. ✨Whether you’re in sport, business or education – this is a fresh take on reaching your full potential.

🎙️ In this episode of What It's Taken, we're joined by The Right Honourable the Baroness Morgan of Cotes (Nicky Morgan) – a former Cabinet Minister, trailblazing MP, and now a member of the House of Lords with a portfolio career spanning the public and private sectors. 🚀Baroness Morgan brings a wealth of experience to the conversation. She served in the Cabinets of both David Cameron and Boris Johnson, holding positions as Education Secretary, Minister for Women & Equalities, and Secretary of State for Digital, Culture, Media and Sport. Notably, she was the first woman to chair the House of Commons Treasury Select Committee, and represented Loughborough as MP from 2010 to 2019.In this powerful discussion, she reflects on the challenges of political life, how to stay grounded through public scrutiny, and the evolving role of leadership in uncertain times.✨ Whether you’re interested in politics, inspired by strong leadership, or curious about what happens behind the scenes in government – this is a must-listen.

🎙 Welcome to What It's Taken! If you're passionate about uncovering the key traits that define extraordinary leaders, you're in the right place! 🚀In our very first episode, we’re joined by Emma Watkinson, the powerhouse behind a global fashion brand SilkFred that has shipped over 300 million items to 85+ countries. Emma takes us through her incredible journey—navigating the highs and lows of entrepreneurship, overcoming the challenges of Covid, and even welcoming twins along the way!Get ready to be inspired. Enjoy the episode!