In this episode, I explore what it means to be both transparent and authentic as a leader.This often comes up as we pursue leadership.We wonder how much of ourselves we can show and how to be our true selves.I’m dedicating a full episode to this because it was a big discussion in one of the VIP Leaders coaching call, my leadership programme.Here’s what you’ll learn: The true meaning of transparency and its role in leadership. Why transparency doesn't mean sharing everything, and how to...

In this episode, I speak to Hannah Hardy-Jones about navigating mental health. Hannah is the co-founder of Contented, an AI startup that turns talk into extraordinary outcomes, capturing meetings and conversations and creating meaningful outputs. She previously founded The Kite Program, a mental health tech company, and has used her background in HR and psychology within her work, as well as her lived experience of postpartum bipolar. As leaders, we're often expected to have all the answers,...

In this episode, I dive into some of my more controversial views on leadership that challenge the norm. These opinions are things I have been thinking about for a while now when it comes to leadership.These takes might challenge the way you see things, but that’s the point.Here’s what you’ll learn:  Why leadership isn’t as complicated as we make it, and how listening more could be the key to simplifying your role.  How fixing everything for your team does more harm than good, and why...

In this episode, I talk about how certain leadership behaviours can unexpectedly affect your team and your productivity.These 5 unintended consequences are the 5 that I see most commonly in my group program (VIP Leaders) and my 1:1 clients.These actions and consequences are encountered by so many leaders, regardless of their experience level.Here’s what you’ll learn: How quick responses might set unrealistic expectations for your availability and impact your workload. The risk of being too...

In this episode, I explore the essential leadership skill of setting and managing expectations.Inspired by a discussion in our VIP Leaders programme, this topic is important for new and seasoned leaders to master for effective team and personal management.Here’s what you’ll learn: The importance of setting clear and achievable expectations. How setting and managing expectations can improve your leadership style and your team dynamics. My unique “Six C’s Framework” that will help you create...

In this episode, I talk to Colin D Ellis, a renowned culture change expert, about creating and maintaining a positive workplace culture.Colin D Ellis is a global culture consultant sought after by organisations around the world to help them build vibrant, high-performance places to work.To date, he has worked with almost 100 different cultures in almost 20 countries with clients ranging from Red Bull in Austria, to the US House of Representatives, the Dutch Olympic Team and IAG Insurance in...

In this episode, I explain how to have effective 1:1 catch-ups with your team members.It's such an important part of people leadership, yet often overlooked.It is fundamental to creating strong connections and driving growth within your team.In this episode you will learn: What makes 1:1’s so vital for your leadership and your team’s development. How to set the right tone for these catch ups so they are productive and meaningful. What the common barriers are to effective 1:1s, and how can...

In this episode, I talk about the challenge of imposter thoughts and feelings among leaders – an experience where accomplished individuals doubt their achievements and live in fear of being exposed as frauds.This topic has been coming up a lot in my leadership programmes, online discussions, and even during client coaching sessions.Leaders, especially high achievers and perfectionists, often face this challenge when stepping into new roles or taking on more responsibility, which is why I...

This week is all about the essential topic of boundary setting in leadership.Boundaries are more than just personal limits; they are the foundation of healthy, productive relationships, both in and out of the workplace.So, I'll explore what boundaries are, why they are challenging to establish, and the critical role they play in leadership.From emotional and material boundaries to time and mental boundaries, you'll learn how to define and communicate your limits clearly and effectively.In...

In this week’s episode, I sit down with Danni Ermilova Williams, a dynamic leader, coach, and consultant with a remarkable 17-year career in leadership, human resources, and organisational transformation. Danni shares her journey from a Director at PwC to founding her own consultancy, where she empowers individuals and organisations to navigate change with clarity and resilience.Throughout the conversation, Danni opens up about the pivotal moments that led her to re-evaluate her definition of...

This week, I get into the art of navigating difficult conversations – those moments that are often avoided because they make us uncomfortable, trigger our egos, or seem unpredictable.Whether it’s talking to your boss about something you’re struggling with, giving or receiving feedback, or setting boundaries in personal relationships, these conversations are unavoidable and necessary. You'll hear about the types of difficult conversations that frequently arise in various aspects of life, and...

Leadership isn’t just about managing tasks and achieving goals – it's about deeply understanding and connecting with your people. That’s why this week I explore the foundational elements that can transform your leadership approach.I dive into three critical aspects that every leader must embrace to lead effectively: mindset, emotional baggage, and generosity. By the end of the episode, you'll walk away with actionable insights to help you become a more empathetic, adaptable, and impactful...

In this episode, I talk about the power of asking the right questions as a leader.I’ll explore five key questions that can transform your leadership approach, helping you better understand and support your team.By the end of this episode, you'll have actionable insights to foster trust, respect, and emotional intelligence within your team, setting the stage for a more connected and productive workplace.In this episode, you will learn: Why asking thoughtful questions is crucial for...

​​In this episode, I sit down with Clare Emma Wild, a certified coach specialising in Quiet Leaders. Clare shares her journey from leading senior teams and experiencing burnout to becoming a coach dedicated to empowering introverted, sensitive, and empathic individuals.Clare discusses the essence of Quiet Leadership – how it differs from traditional leadership styles and why it’s valuable.She highlights the importance of staying true to oneself, leveraging unique strengths, and practising...

This week I talk about the often-debated topic of leadership styles: being people-focused versus being effective (results-oriented).Can a leader truly prioritise their team's well-being and development while also driving high performance and achieving goals?I explore the assumptions and stereotypes surrounding these two approaches and make a compelling case for why effective leadership requires a balance of both. Learn how you can be a compassionate leader without sacrificing productivity and...

This week I talk about the essential qualities that make a leader truly inspiring and effective.Leadership isn't just about holding a position of power; it's about embodying the values, emotional intelligence, and courage needed to guide and empower others.I discuss how being true to your values, having high emotional intelligence, and tackling hard things head-on are critical parts of being a leader people actually want to follow.In this episode you will learn: How to stay true to your...

If you’ve been listening to the Lead With Less podcast for a while, you’ll know that I talk about ‘mindset’ a lot – but this week I dive into its critical importance specifically for people leaders, and explore five essential mindset shifts every leader must practice.Understanding and developing your mindset is not just beneficial, it's essential for effective leadership. I’ll discuss why mindset matters, how it shapes your interactions and perspectives, and the profound impact it has on your...

In this week’s episode I have a really great conversation with Emma Bennett, a high-impact leader known for her impressive business results and the thriving work environments she creates. Emma shares her unique approach to leadership – leading without expertise. We talk about what this concept means to her, how she’s built a successful career around it, and the strategies she’s developed along the way. Emma’s journey is filled with valuable lessons from her diverse career, which spans roles...

In this week’s episode, I talk about the key differences between management and leadership. I also cover the challenges faced by individuals transitioning from management to leadership roles, provide practical advice for managers looking to develop leadership skills, and discuss the competencies needed to excel as both effective leaders and efficient managers.   If you are preparing for leadership, this episode is a great introduction. I also offer a V.I.P Leaders programme that addresses...

This week I share 5 common leadership challenges and how to overcome them. I talk about the real-life challenges all leaders face, no matter their experience level, and explore how curiosity and a growth mindset are essential to navigating the journey from individual contributor to inspiring leader. You’ll hear about understanding different communication styles and the art of giving and receiving feedback. As well as the importance of trust, vulnerability, and clear communication in building...

In this episode, I reflect on a full year of podcasting, sharing valuable lessons learned along the way.I talk about doubt, vulnerability, ego, self-worth, success, perfectionism, creativity and feedback, and explore how taking on the challenge of the podcast connects back to leadership. The insights I share in today’s episode can help you navigate your own creative or professional projects, and hopefully also inspire you to be brave and curious in trying new things too. In this episode, you...

This week I am sitting down with someone who I have wanted to speak with since deciding to launch the podcast – Mary Haddock-Staniland, a globally recognised Diversity & Inclusion Executive, keynote speaker, and thought leader. Mary shares her compelling journey as a trans woman who has overcome numerous challenges to become a leading advocate for equity and inclusion. She offers profound insights into what it means to be truly authentic and self-accepting, both personally and...

This week I share five essential steps to take before making your next career move, with an emphasis on being intentional in your decision-making and understanding your strengths and gaps. Becoming an effective leader involves assessing your readiness, developing your value pitch, outlining an action plan, and networking to build your personal brand. Networking and personal branding are key to unlocking more career opportunities and showcasing how you want to be seen and known. I dive into...