Leadership BITES

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In this conversation, Guy Bloom discusses the importance of viewing leadership as a craft and the necessity of proactive learning for personal and professional development. He emphasizes the significance of being aware of one's learning journey, the flow state of competence, and the need for tools and techniques to navigate challenges effectively. Bloom encourages leaders to take ownership of their development and to seek resources beyond their organizations to enhance their skills.

Takeaways

• Leadership should be seen as a craft.
• Proactive learning is essential for effective leadership.
• Self-funding learning opportunities can be beneficial.
• The world offers many free resources for learning.
• Being in a flow state is crucial for competence.
• Recognizing when your usual approach isn't working is key.
• Consciously competent leadership is necessary in challenging situations.
• Having tools and techniques is vital for effective leadership.
• Reflecting on experiences helps improve future performance.
• Reliance on oneself is a strong indicator of future success.
  
  

Sound Bites

• "Leadership as a craft is crucial for development."
• "You can learn just about anything for free."
• "You need a tool, a process, a mechanism."

To find out more about Guy Bloom and his award winning work in Team Coaching, Leadership Development and Executive Coaching click below.

The link to everything CLICK HERE
UK: 07827 953814
Email: guybloom@livingbrave.com
Web: www.livingbrave.com

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This conversation delves into the critical topic of mental health in the workplace, featuring insights from Steve Phillip (The Jordan Legacy) and Charie Brackley. They share their personal experiences and professional backgrounds, emphasizing the importance of open discussions about mental health, the impact of corporate responsibility, and the need for supportive environments. The dialogue highlights the alarming statistics surrounding suicide and mental health issues, urging companies to take meaningful action rather than merely ticking boxes. The speakers advocate for genuine engagement and training to foster a culture of care and understanding within organizations. This conversation delves into the significance of vulnerability in leadership, the duty of care that managers have towards their employees, and the importance of creating a supportive workplace culture. The speakers discuss the need for frameworks to enhance employee wellbeing, the challenges of measuring engagement, and the universality of mental health issues. They emphasize the necessity of having difficult conversations and applying training beyond the workplace to foster genuine connections.

Takeaways

• Mental health conversations are vital in the workplace.
• Personal experiences shape our understanding of mental health.
• Suicide rates are disproportionately higher among men.
• Companies often fail to grasp the connection between mental health and productivity.
• Creating a supportive work environment is essential for employee wellbeing.
• Isolation in certain roles can exacerbate mental health issues.
• Intent and tone matter in conversations about mental health.
• Training is necessary for effective communication about mental health.
• Corporate responsibility should go beyond superficial measures.
• Leadership plays a crucial role in setting the tone for mental health discussions. Vulnerability is a strength in leadership.
• A duty of care is essential for managers.
• Investing in employee wellbeing yields significant returns.
• Caring for employees should be simple and genuine.
• The workplace culture impacts employee engagement.
• Mental health issues affect everyone, regardless of rank.
• Difficult conversations are necessary for growth.
• Training should be applicable in all areas of life.
• Creating a safe space for conversations is crucial.
• Cultural integration of mental health discussions is vital.

Sound Bites

• "We try and make it far simpler than it is."
• "Be strong enough to be vulnerable"
• "Caring about our people is simple"
• "We have a duty of care"
• "For every one pound invested, four pound return"
• "It's about the culture and the environment"
• "We need to talk about things that are real"
• "Navigating difficult conversations is essential"
• "If it's true, it's probably true everywhere"

To find out more about Guy Bloom and his award winning work in Team Coaching, Leadership Development and Executive Coaching click below.

The link to everything CLICK HERE
UK: 07827 953814
Email: guybloom@livingbrave.com
Web: www.livingbrave.com

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In this episode of Leadership Bites, Guy Bloom and Erik Korsvik Østergaard discuss the evolving landscape of leadership in the context of future trends as set out in Erik's book Anticipatory Leadership, particularly focusing on the implications of technology and AI. They explore the importance of futures literacy, emotional engagement, and the need for organizations to foster agency among their teams. The conversation emphasizes the significance of involving individuals in the planning process to create a sense of ownership and confidence, ultimately leading to a more adaptive and resilient organizational culture. In this conversation, Erik Korsvik Østergaard discusses the importance of strategic foresight and futures thinking in navigating the complexities of modern leadership and organizational change. He emphasizes the need for leaders to be responsive and anticipatory, integrating futures literacy into their strategic planning to better prepare for uncertainties. Through his books, he explores the traits of effective leadership and the necessity of storytelling in mobilizing teams towards a shared vision of the future.

Takeaways

• Erik helps leaders understand future trends and their implications.
• Organizations need to think about multiple futures, not just one.
• AI will require leaders to be more tech-savvy in the future.
• Emotional responses to trends are crucial for engagement.
• Creating agency among team members fosters ownership and confidence.
• Involvement in planning leads to a sense of purpose.
• Wholeness and self-leadership are essential in modern organizations.
• Short-term and long-term planning must coexist.
• Adaptability is key in navigating future challenges.
• Regularly discussing trends can build futures literacy in teams. Organizations are currently more short-sighted than long-sighted.
• China's strategic planning is generational, unlike Western approaches.
• Innovation in Europe is being stifled due to current challenges.
• Futures thinking should augment existing strategic planning.
• Futures literacy is essential for critical thinking about the future.
• Storytelling is crucial for mobilizing teams around a vision.
• Leaders must be responsive to navigate complexities.
• Any day can be a fresh start for change.
• Futures thinking can apply to immediate and long-term scenarios.
• Engaging younger talent in futures thinking is vital for adaptability.

Sound Bites

• "I help leaders understand future trends."
• "AI will require leaders to be tech savvy."
• "The future is unevenly distributed."
• "Hope, ownership, confidence, and agency."
• "Doctors are shifting their identity."
• "Plan your way out of problems."
• "It's a thousand little adaptations."
• "China plays chess while we play drafts."
• "It's all about mobilization."
• "Any day is day zero for change."

To find out more about Guy Bloom and his award winning work in Team Coaching, Leadership Development and Executive Coaching click below.

The link to everything CLICK HERE
UK: 07827 953814
Email: guybloom@livingbrave.com
Web: www.livingbrave.com

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In this episode of Leadership Bites, Rob Oxley, Head of HR, UK for John Sisk and Son Ltd, talks with Guy Bloom about the journey of achieving and maintaining the Platinum Investors in People (IIP) certification. 

Rob shares insights into the importance of external validation, the role of reflection in continuous improvement, and the engagement of senior leadership in the process. He emphasises that the motivation behind pursuing IIP is not merely to obtain a badge, but to genuinely enhance the organisation's 'people and culture' strategy. 

The conversation also touches on the significance of leadership development and the interconnectedness of various initiatives within the organisation.

Takeaways

• The journey to IIP Platinum status is an ongoing journey.
• External validation is a huge enabler for organisational culture.
• Reflection on past successes and failures is key to continuous improvement.
• Engaging senior leadership is essential for the success of IIP initiatives.
• Platinum status indicates exceptional performance across multiple indicators.
• Maintaining IIP status requires continuous improvement and adaptation.
• Leadership development programs are vital for bridging gaps in management skills.
• HR should enable and support organisational success rather than dictate it.
• Celebrating achievements and acting on feedback is crucial for growth.

Sound Bites

• "You can't hide. You can't try and frame this."
• "We have to show continuous improvement."
• "It's not to get another shiny badge."
• "It's not just press repeat."
• "We don't do things in isolation."
• "It's about incentivising people to really get on board."
• "It's a beautiful thing."
• "It's a heck of a process."

To find out more about Guy Bloom and his award winning work in Team Coaching, Leadership Development and Executive Coaching click below.

The link to everything CLICK HERE
UK: 07827 953814
Email: guybloom@livingbrave.com
Web: www.livingbrave.com

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In this episode of Leadership Bites, Kyle McDowell shares his transformative journey from a corporate leader to an author and speaker. He discusses the importance of care in leadership, the hunger for a better work environment, and the principles that guide effective leadership. The conversation delves into the significance of trust, relatability, and the concept of 'We' in fostering a positive organizational culture. Kyle also introduces the 10 We's framework, which serves as a guide for leaders to create a thriving workplace. In this conversation, Kyle McDowell discusses the foundational principles of leadership that can transform teams and organizations. He emphasizes the importance of doing the right thing, leading by example, and fostering a culture of accountability and challenge. The discussion also touches on the human element of leadership, the resistance to change, and the significance of commitment in embedding these principles into an organization's culture. Kyle shares insights on how these principles can lead to personal and professional growth, ultimately creating a more engaged and effective team.

Takeaways

• Kyle transitioned from a corporate leader to an author and speaker.
• His upbringing instilled a strong work ethic and teamwork values.
• Apathy in the workplace can lead to a desire for change.
• The decision to write a book stemmed from a need for a better way.
• Feedback from colleagues inspired him to share his leadership principles.
• Care in leadership is crucial for building trust and loyalty.
• Relatability is key to establishing trust in leadership.
• The concept of 'We' emphasizes collective success over individualism.
• The 10 We's framework provides actionable principles for leaders.
• Transformational leadership can create a positive impact on teams. Leadership principles are simple but not easy to implement.
• Doing the right thing always is foundational to leadership.
• Leading by example sets the tone for team behavior.
• Accountability is crucial for team dynamics and success.
• Embracing challenge fosters innovation and growth.
• Details can differentiate between good and great experiences.
• Cultural change requires commitment from all levels of leadership.
• Resistance to change often stems from past disappointments.
• Creating a supportive environment is essential for team success.
• Leadership is about valuing and connecting with people.

Sound Bites

• "It's a beautiful thing."
• "I care about you."
• "I trust you."
• "You don't have to go to dinner."
• "The concept of 'We' is essential."
• "We do the right thing always."
• "We lead by example."
• "We own our mistakes."
• "We embrace challenge."
• "Details are not just the details."
• "We want to add value, be valued."

To find out more about Guy Bloom and his award winning work in Team Coaching, Leadership Development and Executive Coaching click below.

The link to everything CLICK HERE
UK: 07827 953814
Email: guybloom@livingbrave.com
Web: www.livingbrave.com

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In this episode of Leadership Bites, Ken shares his journey as a blue collar entrepreneur and the inspiration behind his book 'Blue Collar Cash'. He discusses the importance of taking action, setting timelines for goals, and challenges the traditional notion that college is the only path to success. Ken emphasizes the value of blue collar work and the entrepreneurial characteristics that can emerge from it, encouraging listeners to visualize their life's goals and take control of their futures. In this conversation, Ken Rusk discusses the importance of setting clear goals and creating actionable pathways to achieve them. He emphasizes the need for a positive mindset and personal responsibility in shaping one's future. The discussion also touches on the significance of trusting oneself, navigating career transitions, and the critical role of financial literacy in achieving long-term success. Ken shares personal anecdotes and practical advice, encouraging listeners to take control of their lives and pursue their dreams with confidence.

Takeaways

• Ken's journey began with his daughter's illness, inspiring him to write.
• The concept of 'blue collar entrepreneur' reflects resilience and hard work.
• Action and anticipation are key to achieving goals.
• Timelines are essential for turning dreams into reality.
• Many students enter college without a clear purpose.
• Blue collar jobs can be more lucrative than traditional degrees.
• Stigmatization of blue collar work needs to change.
• Entrepreneurial characteristics are inherent in everyone.
• Visualizing life goals can guide personal development.
• Starting young with goal setting can lead to success. Visualizing goals can simplify the path to achieving them.
• Mindset is crucial for personal success and fulfillment.
• Trusting yourself is the first step to creating your vision.
• Creating a vision board can help clarify your goals.
• Sharing your goals with supportive people enhances accountability.
• Many people are influenced by societal norms instead of their own desires.
• Starting a side gig can lead to fulfilling career transitions.
• Financial literacy is essential for long-term independence.
• Understanding compound interest can significantly impact financial security.
• Taking risks is necessary for personal growth and success.

Sound Bites

• "I wanted to happen to life."
• "You can start as soon as you can dream."
• "Why isn't everybody doing this?"
• "Create a Pinterest board if you have to."
• "You can run a business from anywhere."
• "You have to have the faith of it."
• "You can start teaching that to people."
• "Why are you renting money?"
• "I guarantee you it'll change your life."

To find out more about Guy Bloom and his award winning work in Team Coaching, Leadership Development and Executive Coaching click below.

The link to everything CLICK HERE
UK: 07827 953814
Email: guybloom@livingbrave.com
Web: www.livingbrave.com

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In this episode of Leadership Bites, Guy Bloom interviews Dr. Joel A. Davis Brown, Esq, an organizational development expert, author of The Souls of Queer Folk: How Understanding LGBTQ+ Culture Can Transform Your Leadership Practice about the evolving landscape of leadership, particularly in the context of diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI). 

Joel shares his journey from corporate America to becoming a thought leader in leadership practices, emphasizing the importance of understanding the LGBTQ community's experiences in navigating a volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous (VUCA) world. 

The conversation delves into the challenges and misconceptions surrounding DEI, its politicization, and the need for nuanced discussions to foster better understanding and collaboration in diverse societies. In this conversation, Joel discusses the significance of open dialogue in Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiatives, emphasizing the need for ongoing conversations rather than mere compliance. He highlights the importance of integrating DEI into organizational culture and leadership practices, addressing the discomfort that often arises in discussions about identity and pronouns. 

Joel advocates for compassion and a growth mindset as essential components in navigating these complex topics, ultimately aiming for a more inclusive and understanding environment.

Takeaways

• Leadership requires adaptability and community-based approaches.
• The LGBTQ community offers valuable lessons in navigating VUCA environments.
• DEI initiatives aim to create equitable opportunities for all.
• Misconceptions about DEI often stem from fear and misinformation.
• Diversity, equity, and inclusion benefit everyone, not just marginalized groups.
• Understanding different cultural perspectives is crucial for effective leadership.
• Political narratives can distort the true purpose of DEI initiatives.
• Nuanced conversations are essential to address complex societal issues.
• Leadership should focus on awakening the leadership spirit in everyone.
• The future of leadership lies in embracing diversity and collaboration. Open conversations are crucial for understanding and growth.
• DEI should evolve from compliance to a core business focus.
• Discomfort in discussions is a sign of growth, not danger.
• Understanding pronouns is essential for inclusivity.
• Compassion is key in navigating DEI challenges.
• Leadership can be learned from various life experiences.
• Organizations must adapt to diverse needs and expectations.
• Curiosity should be encouraged in DEI discussions.
• Empathy is necessary for both learners and those affected.
• DEI conversations impact people's livelihoods and well-being.

Sound Bites

• "I only get people on who challenge or excite."
• "This is a very disorienting, dispiriting period."
• "We live in a VUCA world."
• "Diversity doesn't exclude you."
• "DEI is about business effectiveness and efficiency."
• "No one is entitled to a position within the school."
• "Everything you

To find out more about Guy Bloom and his award winning work in Team Coaching, Leadership Development and Executive Coaching click below.

The link to everything CLICK HERE
UK: 07827 953814
Email: guybloom@livingbrave.com
Web: www.livingbrave.com

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In this episode of Leadership Bites, Guy Bloom interviews Data Coach Paul Graeve, who shares insights on the intersection of leadership and data management. Paul  emphasizes the simplicity of data, debunks myths surrounding its complexity, and discusses the critical role leaders play in fostering a data-driven culture. He highlights the importance of viewing data as an organizational asset and the challenges organizations face in managing their data effectively. The conversation also covers the significance of data warehousing and the need for intentionality in data management practices. In this conversation, Guy Bloom and Data Coach Paul discuss the importance of data-driven leadership and the actionable steps leaders can take to foster a data-driven culture within their organizations. They explore the role of AI in data management, the challenges leaders face in transforming their data practices, and the mindset required to effectively utilize data for decision-making and organizational growth. The discussion emphasizes the value of data as a foundational asset for businesses and the necessity of intentionality and perseverance in building a data-driven culture.

Takeaways

• Data is fundamentally simple: strings, dates, and numbers.
• Leaders must value data to invest in it effectively.
• Data can transform every aspect of an organization.
• A data-driven culture is essential for effective leadership.
• Organizations often struggle with scattered data across systems.
• Data warehousing provides a solution for managing data effectively.
• Leaders should be intentional about data management practices.
• Understanding data is crucial for strategic decision-making.
• Data is the identity of an organization, reflecting its operations.
• Building a data-driven culture is a continuous journey. Leaders must establish a culture that values data.
• Actionable insights from data require a data-driven mindset.
• Replacing 'I think' with 'Do we have data?' fosters better decision-making.
• Data-driven culture leads to unified decision-making among teams.
• AI can assist in managing and utilizing data effectively.
• Data is the foundation for all technology, including AI.
• Intentionality and perseverance are key in data transformation.
• Data-driven leadership improves organizational growth and decision-making.
• Survey tools can provide valuable insights into team morale and performance.
• Investing in data management is crucial for future business success.

Sound Bites

• "The first step for a leader is to value data."
• "Your data is who your organization is."
• "We need to get our data ready."
• "AI can be a great tool in that effort."
• "We need to be intentional about it."
• "Data is our most valuable asset."
• "Data is the foundation and the future of business."
• "We are going to own our data."
• "Let's use data to make better decisions."
• "Everyone wins when the leader becomes data driven."
• "Data is incredibly simple."

To find out more about Guy Bloom and his award winning work in Team Coaching, Leadership Development and Executive Coaching click below.

The link to everything CLICK HERE
UK: 07827 953814
Email: guybloom@livingbrave.com
Web: www.livingbrave.com

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In this episode of Leadership Bites, Guy Bloom engages with Bob De koch and Phil Clampitt, co-authors of 'Leading with Care in a Tough World.' They discuss the critical issues in leadership today, including the alarming statistics on employee engagement, the integration of skills and beliefs in leadership practices, and the importance of recognizing different audiences in leadership development. 

The conversation also touches on the challenges of giving feedback, building confidence in teams, and the necessity of effective communication in a fast-paced environment, especially in times of uncertainty. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the complexities of leadership in today's fast-paced environment, emphasizing the need for real-time learning, transparency, and effective communication. 

They discuss the dynamics of meetings, particularly the 'meeting after the meeting,' and how pushback can be transformed into constructive dialogue. The importance of creating a safe space for honest conversations is highlighted, along with strategies for leaders to engage with differing opinions and foster a collaborative culture.

Takeaways

• Only 15% of team members are truly engaged in their organizations.
• Leaders need to integrate skills and fundamental beliefs.
• There is a significant gap in leadership development investment.
• Different audiences require tailored leadership approaches.
• Feedback is often difficult at senior levels due to established views.
• Building confidence is essential for motivating teams.
• Leaders should find joy in their team's success, not just their own.
• The fast-paced environment demands quick and transparent communication.
• Embracing uncertainty is crucial for effective leadership.
• Highlighting the learning environment is key during crises. Real-time learning is crucial in high-pressure environments.
• Leaders must balance transparency with the need for information.
• The 'meeting after the meeting' can reveal unspoken concerns.
• Pushback is a necessary part of healthy organizational dialogue.
• Creating a safe space encourages honest communication.

Sound Bites

• "Only 15% of team members are truly engaged."
• "We have a problem in how leaders lead."
• "The joy comes from watching you do the task."
• "We live in a rapid-fire environment."
• "Leaders need to embrace uncertainty."
• "The fluidity of the situation is critical."
• "We didn't highlight the learning environment."
• "Maximum disclosure for what you know."
• "You have to be savvy to that."

References made in podcast

• Hard Truths about the Meeting after the Meeting, MIT Sloan Management Review
• Five Ways Leaders Can Turn Pushback into Progress, MIT Sloan Management Review
• How to Strategically Communica

To find out more about Guy Bloom and his award winning work in Team Coaching, Leadership Development and Executive Coaching click below.

The link to everything CLICK HERE
UK: 07827 953814
Email: guybloom@livingbrave.com
Web: www.livingbrave.com