Podcast

#77: Why is Empathy essential?

Episode Notes Mimi Nicklin explores the intersection of empathy and loneliness within the corporate world. The discussion highlights empathy as a critical leadership skill, the power of active listening, and the systemic barriers preventing emotional connection. Ultimately, the conversation argues that high performance is driven by deep human connection, not emotional distance. Our Guest: Mimi…

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#76: Preparing for a challenging meeting

Episode Notes Navigating high-stakes meetings requires moving from reactive survival to intentional leadership. This episode explores how to build “conflict intelligence” by prioritizing preparation over ego and focusing on desired outcomes rather than personal anxieties. By mastering the balance of energy and empathy, leaders can turn a “fog of ambiguity” into a clear path for…

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#75: The Engagement Gap, with Manjuri Sinha

Episode Notes Manjuri Sinha breaks down the alarming decline in global employee engagement and the pivotal role managers play in reversing this trend. The discussion addresses systemic issues driving disengagement, the unique pressures facing female leaders, and why organizational clarity is the only path to better workplace dynamics.The conversation references the “State of the Global…

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#74: Effective Internal Communication

Episode Notes Monique Zytnik explores why internal communication is the “lifeblood” of organizational health, especially during transformation. The discussion breaks down common misconceptions, the weight of leadership responsibility, and the high cost of failing to align corporate words with actual deeds Our Guest: Monique Zytnik Monique Zytnik is a Berlin-based global communication leader and award-winning…

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#73: Lessons from a CEO

Episode Notes In this episode, Costas Kalisperas deconstructs the leadership philosophy of Doug McMillon (Former President and CEO, Walmart Inc.) to show how high-level CEO strategies apply to leaders at every level. We explore the vital link between team composition, active listening, and the mental clarity that comes from making (and communicating) decisive choices. Our…

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#72: Hyperfocus or Hyperstress?

Episode Notes In this conversation, Matteo Casini and Dr. Caroline Böttiger explore the tension between hyperfocus and hyperstress at work, with a particular lens on ADHD. They discuss how people can move between these states, why they’re often confused with healthy flow, and how stress-driven productivity can undermine creativity and well-being. The conversation points to…

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#71: Establishing priorities and setting pace

Episode Notes In this conversation, Michael Duning reflects on how leaders think about pace, not just in terms of hitting targets, but sustaining teams over time. He explores the role of adaptability, clear priorities, and communication in setting a pace that supports both performance and well-being. Our Guest: Michael Duning Michael Duning is the Chief…

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#70: The evolution of Change Management

Episode Notes In this conversation, Nicole draws on her experience in change management to explore why effective change is less about control and more about capability. She reflects on the role leaders play in navigating uncertainty, the importance of building leadership capability, and why involving teams through co-creation is essential to creating workplaces that can…

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#69: Petra Velzeboer and the Modern Workplace

Episode Notes In this conversation, Petra Velzeboer reflects on how work has changed since COVID-19, from the role of technology and remote work to personal agency and connection. Petra explores what responsibility leaders and individuals now carry in creating healthier, more meaningful ways of working amid ongoing pressure and complexity. Our Guest: Petra Velzeboer Renowned…

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#68: Kindness, Niceness, and Responsibility

Episode Notes In this episode, we explore the difference between being kind and being nice in leadership. Niceness can smooth interactions, but kindness is often what creates clarity, accountability, and growth. How do you balance care and firmness in your leadership style? Our Guest: Costas Kalisperas Costas is the Founder & CEO of In Tune…

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