Who's Elvis Around Here?

What happens when you introduce AI to “help” your people… and they all go on sick leave?In this episode of Who’s Elvis Around Here?, Chris sits down with leadership expert Joe Hildebrand to explore the human side of AI — and why so many organisations are getting it wrong.As AI rapidly reshapes the workplace, leaders are facing a critical choice:👉 Use AI purely for efficiency, cost-cutting, and productivity👉 Or use it to unlock human potential, creativity, and growthJoe shares real-world stories (including one AI rollout that completely backfired), powerful leadership frameworks, and why psychological safety, storytelling, and co-creation are more important than ever.This conversation dives into:- Why removing “mundane work” can actually harm employees- The hidden stress AI can create in teams- The “Red Pill vs Blue Pill” decision every leader faces- How to balance structure and freedom in modern leadership- Why the biggest risk right now is losing the human connectionIf you’re a leader, founder, or simply navigating change in the age of AI — this episode will challenge how you think about work, people, and the future.

What if changing masculinity… started with something as simple as painted nails?In this episode of Who’s Elvis Around Here?, Chris sits down with author, entrepreneur, and rule-breaker Sam Conniff for a surprising, thought-provoking conversation about identity, culture, and the hidden rules we all live by.What begins as a trip to a Harry Styles concert with his daughter quickly turns into something much bigger — a nationwide experiment with hundreds of men, challenging ideas of masculinity and unlocking conversations many have never had before.This episode dives into:Why small acts of rule-breaking can create big cultural shifts What the “man box” is — and how it shapes behaviour Why men expected backlash… and what actually happened The link between uncertainty, anxiety, and human potential How leaders can unlock creativity by embracing the unknownOne of the most powerful takeaways? 👉 What we often see as weakness can actually be a source of strength.If you’ve ever questioned the rules you live by - or wondered how real change actually happens - this conversation will stay with you.And if you want more from Sam, you can learn more about his work here https://www.samconniff.com and explore his latest book The Uncertainty Toolkithere: https://www.panmacmillan.com/authors/sam-conniff/the-uncertainty-toolkit/9781035060054

What if the thing holding you back… is just a story you’ve been telling yourself?In this episode of Who’s Elvis Around Who, Chris sits down with writer and entrepreneur Dan Kieran for a deeply honest, funny, and surprisingly powerful conversation about identity, creativity, and what it really takes to become your true self.From a completely chaotic (and hilarious) journey driving a milk float across England 🚐… to building a publishing company and rediscovering purpose after hitting rock bottom — Dan shares the moments that reshaped how he sees life, business, and human potential.This episode dives into:Why we’re all living inside stories we didn’t consciously chooseHow “soothing a wound” drives so many careersThe surprising power of authenticity (and why it attracts people)Why being MORE human is your biggest advantage in an AI worldA simple exercise you can do today to uncover your true storyOne of the most powerful takeaways?👉 The magic you’re looking for is often on the other side of the thing you’re avoiding.If you’ve ever felt stuck, unsure of who you are, or like you’re capable of more — this conversation will hit home.🎧 Listen today and start rewriting your story.

In this episode of Who’s Elvis Around Here?, Chris sits down with organisational psychologist Antoinette Raymond for a powerful conversation on what it really takes to lead in today’s world.From redefining leadership as an energy game (not a time problem), to unlocking the genius in people through connection, this episode is packed with practical insight and refreshing honesty.Antoinette shares:✨ Why connection is the #1 driver of creativity and performance✨ How leaders can create environments where people feel safe to be brilliant✨ A surprising and hopeful real-world use of AI in healthcare✨ Simple, powerful techniques to become more present and impactful✨ What gives her hope about the future — from bold young voices to fearless women redefining their later yearsThis is a conversation about being more human at work — and why that might be the most important leadership skill of all.If you care about leadership, culture, or bringing out the best in people, this one’s for you.🎧 Listen now and discover how to lead with energy, connection, and purpose.

In this episode of Who’s Elvis Around Here?, Chris Baréz-Brown sits down with Tom Kay, founder of Finisterre - the pioneering outdoor brand born on the cliffs of Cornwall.From humble beginnings in a flat above a surf shop to a global, purpose-driven business, Tom shares the real story behind building a brand that stands for something more. This is not just about business growth - it’s about culture, purpose, and the power of people.Tom reveals why “low ego” is the most underrated leadership trait, how a clear purpose can unlock creativity and ownership, and why staying connected to nature (yes, even cold-water swims!) shapes better teams and better decisions.They also explore:The highs and lows of building a brand from scratch How to maintain startup energy after 20+ years Why purpose-driven companies attract better people The role of the ocean in shaping Finisterre’s identity What gives Tom hope in a challenging world If you're a founder, leader, or anyone interested in building meaningful culture - this episode is packed with insight.👉 “Never underestimate the power of a small group of people to drive change.”

What happens when a top restaurateur sells his own name… and then buys it back for £7,000?In this episode of Who’s Elvis Around Here, Chris sits down with legendary chef and restaurateur Mark Hix to unpack the highs, lows, and lessons from a life in hospitality.From running multiple restaurants and leading hundreds of staff, to losing everything overnight during the pandemic, Mark shares the unfiltered reality of entrepreneurship — and what he’s learned about creativity, leadership, and starting again.We also dive into:The story behind selling (and reclaiming) his nameHow he developed chefs using his “Challenge Hix” methodWhy creativity thrives under restrictionThe pressures of running restaurants vs the freedom of a portfolio lifeWhat he’s building next (including the return of Mark’s Bar 👀)This is a candid, funny, and insightful conversation about reinvention, resilience, and doing things differently.

In this episode of Who’s Elvis Around Here?, Chris sits down with theatre producer, writer, and creative change-maker David Micklem to explore what it really takes to unlock human potential in organisations—and why creativity might be our greatest untapped superpower.David shares his unique journey from running iconic institutions like Battersea Arts Centre to becoming a “fixer” for arts organisations navigating change. Together, they dive into powerful ideas around leadership, storytelling, and how the role of people in society has evolved—from subjects to consumers to citizens. 💡 In this conversation, you’ll discover:Why modern organisations must move from hierarchy to participationHow creativity isn’t a job title—it’s a human trait we’ve forgottenThe importance of building daily creative habits (your “mental health gym”)What great leadership really looks like: “be yourself with skill”Why many leaders struggle to know who they truly areThe impact of technology on our mindset—and how to reconnect with what mattersWhere hope actually lives in today’s chaotic worldFrom cultural democracy to the power of nature, this episode is packed with insight for leaders, creatives, and anyone looking to bring more energy, authenticity, and imagination into their work and life.

In this episode of the podcast, I’m joined by James Sills — choir leader, speaker and founder of Gather Sing — to explore the power of singing, creativity, and connection.James has spent years bringing people together through music, helping audiences rediscover something many of us lost along the way: the confidence to use our voice.We talk about how singing builds trust, why so many adults stop singing as they grow up, and how creating shared experiences through music can transform teams, communities and organisations.James also shares the story of being asked to speak at TEDx Manchester with just 48 hours’ notice, and why some of the most important opportunities in life come from saying yes before you feel ready.This conversation is about permission, creativity, and the courage to start before everything feels perfect.Whether you love singing, lead teams, or just want to build deeper connections with the people around you, this episode is full of insights.

In this episode of Who's Elvis Round Here, Chris Baréz-Brown sits down with Sophie Devonshire, CEO of The Marketing Society and author of Superfast: Lead at Speed and Love Work.Sophie shares powerful insights on leadership, creativity, and how to bring more energy, optimism and humanity into the workplace.From the story of a pioneering 19th-century entrepreneur who transformed the champagne industry, to practical advice on how leaders can create more playful, innovative teams, this conversation explores what it really takes to thrive in a fast-moving world.You’ll hear why Sophie believes leaders should “act with audacity,” why humour is one of the most human leadership skills we have, and how the best organisations create environments where people feel energised, curious and able to do their best work.If you’re a leader, marketer, entrepreneur or simply someone who wants to enjoy work more while making a bigger impact, this episode is packed with insight and inspiration.

What does Nelson Mandela dancing on stage have to do with leadership?Why do most businesses spend their time looking everywhere… except at the donkey?And what if the single most powerful tool in leadership isn’t strategy, structure, or AI — but belief?In this episode of Who’s Elvis Around Here?, I sit down with Scott Morrison — founder of The Boom and one of the most energising leadership minds I know.We talk about:- Creating “Dance Like Mandela” moments in your organisation- Why movements beat mandates every time- The difference between problems and puzzles- Why “business as usual” might be the most dangerous phrase in leadership- And how to make hope normal againIf you care about unlocking genius in your team, creating real momentum, and leading with energy instead of ego — this one’s for you.Let’s get into it.

What does it really take to build a movement - not just a business?In this episode of Who’s Elvis Round Here?, Chris Baréz-Brown sits down with Emma Sayle, founder of Killing Kittens, to talk about leadership, energy, and what happens when you trust instinct over business plans.Emma shares how anger can be a creative force, why contagious energy matters more than job descriptions, and how releasing other people’s genius starts with letting go of control.This is a bold, honest conversation about leadership, rebellion, and building teams that actually care.If you’re leading people - or trying to change the world - this one’s for you.

What if the biggest thing getting in the way of your potential at work isn’t your talent, your role, or your boss — but a little voice in your head?In this episode of Who’s Elvis Round Here?, I’m joined by the brilliant Helen Tupper, co-founder of Amazing If and one of the most human voices in the world of work today. We dive into squiggly careers, confidence gremlins, and those pivotal moments when something inside you says, “Now is the time.”Helen shares the story of leaving a successful corporate career to follow a deeper sense of purpose, why confidence is the hidden unlock for so much potential at work, and how small experiments - not big grand plans - are what really create momentum. We talk about missed opportunities, learning like a lobster, and the quiet power of people’s ability to “go again,” even when things get hard.This is a conversation about bravery, curiosity, and creating work that feels more alive. Practical, honest, and deeply human - exactly the kind of dialogue we need more of right now.Settle in. You’re going to love this one.

What if confidence isn’t something you have… but something you train?In this episode of Who’s Elvis Round Here, I’m joined by the brilliant Scott Ransome - coach, trainer, and ex-professional actor who helps people show up powerfully on video, on stage, and in the moments that actually matter.We get into:• The “Elvis moment” where you take the leap (even when it might flop)• Why connection beats performance every time• The four performance responses: fight, flight, freeze, fawn• How to shift from subconscious reaction to conscious response• And why the inability to run away can be the greatest blessing for flowIf you want more presence, more impact, and more of you coming through - this one will light you up.

What happens when you really look at yourself — and don’t look away?In this episode of Who’s Elvis Around Here?, Chris Baréz-Brown sits down with leadership consultant and founder of The People Performance Consultancy, Dolly Waddell, for a raw, funny, and deeply practical conversation about ambition, identity, and unlocking human potential.Dolly shares the pivotal “mirror moment” that changed her life — from being a vicar’s wife and stay-at-home mum to building a fast-growing leadership business by following curiosity, courage, and a thousand phone calls worth of breadcrumbs.Together, Chris and Dolly explore:Why looking yourself in the eye can be the most confronting leadership tool of allHow changing the rules of your life can unlock trapped ambitionThe Drama Triangle (Victim, Persecutor, Rescuer) — and how leaders can flip it to create ownership, challenge, and coachingWhy language shapes performance more than strategyHow most meetings, agendas, and job titles are quietly killing energyFun, rollerblades, Michael McIntyre — and why play is a serious leadership skillThis is a conversation about leading with humanity, precision, and energy — without losing joy, hope, or yourself along the way.🎧 If you’re a leader, founder, or anyone feeling a bit “trapped” by the life you’re meant to be grateful for, this episode will hit home.

The fastest route to leadership isn’t ambition… it’s energy?  And this episode has tons of it…In this episode of Who’s Elvis Around Here, I’m joined by Azita Martin, Vice President at NVIDIA and one of the sharpest, most human leaders working at the cutting edge of AI today.We talk about:Why loving what you do is the quickest path to becoming greatHow NVIDIA keeps speed, agility, and excellence at scaleWhy leaders don’t need all the answers — but do need a visionAnd what happens when the mission becomes the bossThis is a conversation about curiosity, courage, learning fast, and building cultures where brilliant people want to play.If you care about leadership, talent, and creating organisations that actually move — this one’s for you.

What if the best innovations don’t feel clever… they feel inevitable?In this episode of Who’s Elvis Round Here, Chris sits down with the legendary Mike Pell - inventor of the font menu, co-creator of PDF, and now global lead of the Microsoft Garage.We dive into:• Why real innovation is never incremental• How irritation, emotion, and curiosity spark breakthroughs• Why leaders have to let go of what made them successful• And how human ingenuity is far more powerful than any processThis is a conversation about seeing what others don’t, creating the conditions for genius, and why the best ideas make everyone say: “How could it ever have been any other way?”If you care about culture, creativity, and unlocking extraordinary people — you’re in the right place.

In this episode of Who’s Elvis Around Here?, Chris Baréz-Brown sits down with the unstoppable, endlessly energetic Molly Fletcher - former sports agent turned top keynote speaker and author of Dynamic Drive.Molly’s coached elite performers, negotiated massive deals, built a career on curiosity and service, and now helps leaders bring out the absolute best in their people. And wow… her stories fizz with wisdom.Together, Chris and Molly dive into:• How to create clarity, accountability and permission that unlock extraordinary performance• Why the best leaders “serve the heart, not the talent”• The truth about energy — what fuels us, what drains us, and how to choose the good stuff daily• Molly’s wild journey from tennis coach to premier sports agent (including the legendary nine-year free-rent story)• How optimism, purpose and legacy shape how we show up every single dayIf you love conversations packed with energy, humanity and practical brilliance, this one will light you up.

From Coca-Cola to SC Johnson to Chobani, Pavi has spent his life helping organisations see the world differently. In this weeks episode, he and Chris dive into the magic that happens when leaders stay open, curious and genuinely connected to the humans they serve.In this episode you’ll discover:- The story that reshaped Pavi’s entire approach to insight and leadership- Why “it’s okay” can sometimes be the most powerful feedback you’ll ever receive- How curiosity acts as the ultimate performance unlock- The shift from delivering answers… to driving action- Why people need to experience insights, not just read them- How the next generation (yes, Gen Z and Gen Alpha) are giving us all hope- The power of challenging routines, assumptions and “we’ve always done it like this” thinkingPavi also shares the brilliant concept of “the power of AND” - the mindset that helps leaders evolve, innovate and avoid the trap of relying on past success.If you’re a leader who wants to spark fresh energy, unlock your team’s brilliance, and stay deeply human in a world speeding ahead… this one is for you.Watch now and get curious again.Subscribe for weekly episodes of Who’s Elvis Around Here?

Brilliant ideas rarely arrive fully formed — they emerge from courage, curiosity and the beautifully human chaos of making something that matters.In this soulful, surprising episode, art producer, artist and documentary maker Fiamma Montagu joins Chris Baréz-Brown to explore how meaningful creative work really happens. From orchestrating the monumental Tower of London poppy installation to chasing mammoths in Siberia and dreaming up modern pilgrimages, Fiamma shares stories that reveal the power of belief, values and human connection in bringing extraordinary projects to life.It’s a conversation alive with imagination, honesty and proper emotional depth - the kind that reminds us why authenticity still cuts through more than anything else.In this episode, you’ll discover: - How a clear intention and shared belief can mobilise thousands of people behind an idea that initially feels impossible. - Why authenticity and emotional sincerity matter more than slick strategy when you’re trying to move people. - How co-creation, community and simple acts of unity can spark collective momentum in divided times. - Fiamma’s reflections on art, humanity and why we must protect the depth of human experience in an increasingly transactional world. - The surprising truth that commercial success and soulful intention can sit beautifully side by side when the heart leads first.If you’re craving inspiration, creative courage and a reminder of what people can achieve when they truly believe in a purpose, this episode will stay with you long after it ends.

What if the secret to brilliant business wasn’t working harder… but getting way more mischievous?In this playful, thought-provoking episode, creative maverick David Pearl joins Chris Baréz-Brown to explore how serious fun, curiosity and a bit of well-aimed troublemaking can transform the way we lead, meet and work together. From hacking feedback culture at Intel with a secret “change game” to rethinking PowerPoint, meetings and the role of ego, this is a conversation that will have you looking at work (and life) with much fresher eyes.It’s rich with stories, laughter and proper human wisdom – all grounded in David’s world of music, theatre and Street Wisdom, where the streets themselves become your teacher.In this episode, you’ll discover:- How “serious fun” can unlock performance in even the most technical, corporate environments.- A mischievous game that radically improved feedback and trust between leaders and their teams.- Why so many meetings (and slide decks) drain our energy – and simple tweaks that bring them back to life.- The power of saying “I don’t know” and why real genius starts with curiosity, not certainty.- Why music gives David hope – and what it can teach us about connection, rhythm and moving togetherIf you’re ready to bring more play, curiosity and humanity into the way you lead and work, this one will tune you up beautifully.

What happens when your job is literally to bring more heart into the world of work?In this uplifting episode, Chris sits down with Claude Silver - the legendary Chief Heart Officer at VaynerX - to explore what it really takes to create workplaces where humans actually flourish.Claude shares the wild, beautiful story that changed her life on a 93-day wilderness course, how she learned to rewrite the soundtrack in her own head, and why emotional intelligence—not spreadsheets—became her true superpower.They dive into the power of saying yes, how to spot the lies your inner critic keeps whispering, and why supporting people with empathy unlocks levels of creativity and courage most businesses never touch.In this episode, you’ll discover:• How to catch negative self-talk in the moment and change it• Why saying “yes” can transform someone’s entire trajectory• What emotional intelligence looks like in real, everyday leadership• The simple practice that reprograms your inner narrative• Why psychological safety is rocket fuel for creativity• How becoming “your own CEO” starts with one small mindset shift• What Claude’s kids have taught her about bravery, joy and hopeIf you want more heart, more humanity, and a whole lot more possibility at work… this conversation is pure gold. ⚡️

What happens when a leader decides to just do it… and actually means it?In this energising episode, Simon Daglish (ITV legend and all-round positive force of nature) lifts the lid on personal agency, embracing failure, and why culture is the invisible thread that holds everything together.It’s a conversation packed with honesty, humour and proper human wisdom -  from turning challenges into opportunities to making positivity infectious in every room you walk into.In this episode, you’ll discover:- Why the difference between success and failure is simply doing- How to turn failure into your greatest teacher- The secret role culture plays in every successful team- How positivity spreads (and why leaders must model it)- Why challenges often hide your biggest opportunities- What “just do it” really looks like in the real world- How to take charge of your own destiny at work and in lifeIf you want to lead with more courage, more action and a lot more joy… this one’s a belter. ⚡️

In this first episode of Who’s Elvis Around Here?, Chris Baréz-Brown sits down with his old friend and creative powerhouse Keith Wilmot - former Coca-Cola innovator and now Chief People Officer at Norwegian Cruise Line - to explore what it really means to lead with energy.Keith’s had one hell of a journey: from building innovation labs inside Coke to steering the people strategy of a global cruise line. Along the way he’s learned that real leadership isn’t about process, it’s about people, passion and the courage to break a few rules.🔥 In this conversation, you’ll hear about:- Why great leaders should think like captains and act like pirates.- The day Keith brought a 600-pound white tiger into a meeting to jolt creativity to life 🐯.- The art of finding your Tiger Moment - that spark that changes everything.- How “all gas, no brakes” became a mantra for energy-fuelled teams.- Why energy, story and a bit of mischief are the true engines of leadership.It’s bold, funny and full of practical wisdom on how to bring more life to the way you lead.Subscribe today for more episodes of Who’s Elvis Around Here? - where we meet maverick leaders who prove that when you bring your energy, magic happens.Because the world doesn’t need more management… it needs more Elvis. ⚡️