Fostering Inclusion and Equity in the Workplace with Jennifer McCollum

In this episode of the Connected Leadership Podcast, Andy Lopata welcomes Dr. Stacy Moore, a practitioner psychologist specialising in organisational well-being and performance. Stacy has a wealth of expertise in training design and staff wellbeing support and is a member of the Professional Speaking Association (PSA). She has spoken on the main stage at the Insuretech Insights conference 2023 and most recently provided the closing keynote for CX BFSI UK in March 2024. She shares practical recommendations from psychology on how to positively impact the employee and customer experience. Andy and Stacy explore the role of empathy in the workplace and its impact on building strong professional relationships and enhancing organisational performance. Stacey distinguishes between empathy and sympathy, emphasising that empathy involves genuine connection and understanding without judgement, whereas sympathy often carries a sense of pity or superiority. She stresses the importance of empathy in leadership, customer service, and sales; highlighting its role in fostering trust and loyalty. Andy and Stacey discuss the impact of empathy on recruitment and retention. Stacey emphasises the need for organisations to recognise the human element in their employees and provide support and understanding for life events and challenges. They also explore the balance between efficiency and empathy, noting that while efficiency is important, organisations must prioritise empathy to build lasting relationships with both customers and employees. Stacey shares examples of companies that have successfully integrated empathy into their customer service and sales strategies, leading to improved customer satisfaction and loyalty. Andy and Stacy examine the significance of empathy in the workplace, emphasising its proactive nature. While empathy is often seen as reacting to others' challenges, Stacy highlights the importance of anticipating these challenges and implementing support systems beforehand. This proactive approach, she argues, is vital not only for employees but also for customer relations. Andy and Dr. Stacy also explore the relationship between empathy and personality styles, noting that while some individuals may naturally be more empathetic, empathy can be learned and should be a priority for managers. Stacy suggests that organisations should prioritise empathy in their cultures and incorporate it into training programmes, particularly for managers who may lack interpersonal skills. She advocates for a structured approach to empathy, breaking it down into steps to make it more accessible and actionable for all individuals. The conversation concludes with a discussion on creating psychologically safe spaces for empathetic conversations and the importance of follow-up and reflection after such interactions. This episode highlights the critical role of empathy in organisational success and encourages listeners to consider how they can cultivate empathy within themselves and their teams. Connect with Andy Lopata: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | X/Twitter | Youtube Connect with Dr. Stacy Moore: Website | LinkedIn |  Ben Afia Episode: Evergreen| Spotify|

In this episode of the Connected Leadership Podcast, Andy Lopata’s guest is Jennifer McCollum, CEO of Catalyst, a NY-based nonprofit focused on accelerating progress for women in the workplace. Andy and Jennifer discuss issues of gender equality, professional relationships, and ally ship in the workplace. Jennifer McCollum is on a mission to create better leaders and workplaces by advancing women and promoting inclusivity. She’s an accomplished CEO, speaker, and consultant, and the author of the new book "In Her Own Voice: A Woman's Rise to CEO." Using data and personal stories Jennifer sheds light on the unique challenges women face on their journey to leadership and providie actionable insights for aspiring leaders and organisations. Jennifer was the first female CEO at Linkage, a global leadership development firm dedicated to "Changing the Face of Leadership." Jennifer also shares insights from her journey to CEO, reflecting on the challenges faced by women in the corporate world, including pay inequity and the internalisation of external biases. She emphasises the importance of recognising one's value, advocating for oneself, and making bold requests to advance in leadership roles. The conversation examines the concept of ally ship, highlighting the role of sponsors in supporting women's advancement. Jennifer explains that while mentorship provides guidance and advice, sponsorship goes further by leveraging influence and networks to create opportunities for advancement. Andy and Jennifer explore the nuances of ally ship, emphasising the need for men to actively support women in the workplace. They discuss the importance of men recognising and amplifying women's contributions, as well as stepping up as sponsors and advocates. The importance of surrounding oneself with diverse talents and viewpoints to expand opportunities is another important area for discussion.  Andy and Jennifer emphasise the importance of creating a culture of inclusion and equity, measuring and ensuring fairness in talent systems, and gaining executive commitment to sponsorship and ally ship. Jennifer emphasises that these efforts not only benefit marginalised groups but also enhance the organisation as a whole. The episode concludes with a discussion on the importance of transparency and accessibility in formal sponsorship programmes, integrating them into the organisation's DNA for meaningful impact. Jennifer stresses the mutually beneficial nature of diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts, enriching not only the organisation but also the individuals involved. Connect with Andy Lopata: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | X/Twitter | Youtube Connect with Jennifer Mccollum: X/Twitter | LinkedIn | Instagram Podcast: Navigating Imposter Syndrome With Sajna Rahman and Caroline Flanagan Book: Business Networking and Sex: Not What You Think Book: Beyond the Boys' Club: Achieving Career Success as a Woman Working in a Male Dominated Field

In this episode of the Connected Leadership Podcast, Andy Lopata explores the theme of career development and unleashing one's full potential with guest Asad Hussain, a seasoned HR professional and author of "Careers Unleashed." Asad is a 4-time CHRO with a background in leading blue-chip companies like Gillette, Procter & Gamble, Dun & Bradstreet, and Del Monte. His strategic HR achievements have not only driven the success of these companies but also positioned him as a key voice in discussions on the future of workspaces and employee engagement. Asad inspires professionals at all levels, offering guidance to CEOs, CHROs, senior managers, and HR leaders. His expertise in talent management and high-performance culture has been recognised in publications like Forbes and Big Think, where he provides actionable strategies for career advancement and emphasises the importance of taking ownership of one's career. In this episode, Asad shares insights from his extensive experience, showing the importance of aligning passion, talent, and market demand in one's career choice. He highlights the need for continuous learning, describing it as essential to stay relevant in a rapidly changing world. The conversation examines the concept of career paths no longer being linear, with individuals expected to navigate multiple job changes and industries over their working lives. Asad stresses the value of having a learning strategy and making learning a habit, rather than a separate chore, to stay ahead in one's career. He suggests practical approaches, such as reflecting on learning opportunities from past experiences and incorporating micro-learning techniques into daily routines. Andy and Asad discuss the role of mentors in career development, emphasising the need for mentors at all stages of one's career. The conversation touches on the "PI" model of promotion decisions, where performance, image, and exposure play key roles. Asad provides insights into building a strong professional image and gaining exposure to decision-makers through impactful contributions. Andy and Asad also discuss the importance of being relevant and understanding your value in career development. Asad emphasised the need for individuals to recognise and communicate their value, rather than letting their worth be defined solely by external factors like job titles or performance reviews. One key takeaway was the value of transparent conversations with leaders about career aspirations and restlessness in a role. Asad advises approaching these discussions with a mindset of inquiry and learning, rather than demand. Overall, the episode underscores the importance of lifelong learning and adaptability in today's evolving job market, where portfolio careers and continual growth are becoming the norm. This episode is packed with nuggets for leaders to think proactively about their careers, seek diverse experiences, and build strong professional relationships to unleash their full career potential. Connect with Andy Lopata: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | X/Twitter | Youtube Connect with Asad Husain : Website | LinkedIn

Andy Lopata welcomes Telly Leung to the Connected Leadership podcast. Telly is a versatile Broadway performer with an impressive list of credits, including roles in "Aladdin," "In Transit," "Allegiance," "Godspell," "Rent," "Wicked," "Pacific Overtures," and "Flower Drum Song." He has appeared on television in shows like "Warrior," "Glee," "Instinct," and "Law and Order: Criminal Intent." He is also an educator, teaching master classes at universities and drama programmes worldwide. Telly is the co-author of the "Empathy eBook: Empathy in the Workplace and Workforce," which explores the role of empathy in professional environments. Telly's work extends beyond the stage, as he has collaborated with top CEO Coaches to bring his unique perspectives as an artist and thought leader to CEOs and top executives at various organisations. In this episode Telly discusses his background growing up in Brooklyn in a traditional Chinese home. He describes his parents' escape from Communist China and their pursuit of the American dream, which initially involved high expectations for Telly to pursue a traditional career. Despite his parents' hopes, Telly followed his passion for the arts, eventually finding success on Broadway. He emphasises the importance of belonging and highlights the diverse roles within the theatre community, noting that everyone involved plays a vital part in creating a production. Telly acknowledges his parents' initial concerns about his career choice but explains that they eventually came to support him, proud of his achievements over the years. He reflects on the immigrant experience and the formation of supportive communities like Chinatowns, drawing parallels with the inclusive nature of the theatre community. Andy and Telly discuss the impact of cultural background on career choices, the challenges faced in pursuing non-traditional paths, and the value of perseverance in achieving personal and professional success. They also examine the importance of relationships in Telly's career and the impact of directors on his growth as an artist. Telly highlights how every opportunity he's had in the industry has come from building relationships on previous projects. He emphasises the value of personal connections in every industry. Telly also shares his approach to directing, highlighting the importance of understanding and respecting the different roles and perspectives within a production team and the collaborative nature of theatre, where each person's contribution is essential to creating a successful show. Andy and Telly conclude with the upcoming show in London at Crazy Coq, where Telly will be performing with a jazz trio on 28th April, 2024. Telly invited listeners to join him for an evening of Broadway songs, pop tunes, and backstage stories. The conversation reflects Telly's deep appreciation for the collaborative nature of the arts and the importance of building and nurturing relationships throughout his career. Connect with Andy Lopata: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | X/Twitter |YouTube Connect with Telly Leung: Website | Facebook | YouTube |IMDB

This episode of The Connected Leadership Podcast examines the essence of humanity in leadership, exploring the profound impact of humanising leadership practices. Host Andy Lopata is joined by international leadership coach Gerardo Segat. Gerardo worked for 20 years in the family office industry as CEO, chairman, and entrepreneur. In 2016, he left his business and re-qualified as a coach with the ICF. Gerardo has recently created 'Out As Humans', a performing arts show to humanise leaders of corporations, associations, organisations, and conventions. Andy and Gerardo explore how leaders can connect with their human side, fostering more authentic and empathetic relationships within their teams and organisations. Gerardo, drawing from his extensive experience, shares his journey of transitioning to coaching with a focus on humanising leadership. He emphasises the importance of addressing fears and harmful behaviours that hinder leaders from fully embracing their humanity. The conversation touches on the contagious nature of humanity, highlighting how leaders can set an example by embracing vulnerability and empathy. Gerardo shares powerful anecdotes, such as his experience with a bank's boardroom, where accepting vulnerability led to transformative changes in leadership dynamics. The episode underscores the importance of sensitivity in leadership, enabling leaders to see, hear, and understand their teams better. Sensitivity, as Gerardo explains, allows leaders to spot opportunities for collaboration and connect more authentically with others. Andy questions Gerardo about his unique approaches to leadership development and human connection. Gerardo explains his innovative formats for learning and decision-making, such as using debates to shape corporate decisions and conducting interviews with leaders using a mirror to foster deeper introspection. A key highlight is Gerardo's belief that AI will enhance human connection by forcing individuals to develop deeper self-awareness and empathy. He argues that as AI takes over more routine tasks, human skills such as interpersonal intelligence, sensitivity, and creativity will become increasingly valuable in leadership. Throughout the conversation, Gerardo emphasises the importance of inner objectives, such as finding meaning, love, freedom, and certainty as drivers for personal and professional fulfillment. He suggests that leaders who prioritise these inner treasures will not only excel in the AI-driven future but also contribute to a more humanised and empathetic society. Listeners are encouraged to challenge their assumptions and step out of their comfort zones to cultivate sensitivity and empathy in their leadership approach. Through insightful discussions and real-life examples, this episode inspires leaders to humanise their leadership, creating more compassionate and effective workplace cultures. Connect with Andy Lopata: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | X/Twitter| Youtube Connect with Gerardo Segat: Website | LinkedIn |  It’s OK Not To Be OK By Gerardo Segat

Welcome to a special episode of the Connected Leadership podcast. This episode is specially hosted by Alan Stevens and his guests for the episode, Andy Lopata and Dr. Ruth Gotian, co-authors of the recently released "Financial Times Guide to Mentoring." The conversation kicks off with Alan asking Andy to define mentoring. Andy describes mentoring as an exchange of experiences, skills, and expertise where someone with insights helps another along their journey. Alan then delves deeper, questioning who mentoring is for, and Andy and Ruth stress that it's for everyone, regardless of their career stage, emphasising the benefits of both being a mentor and having a mentor. The conversation flows seamlessly as they discuss the importance of mentoring, backed by research findings that demonstrate its impact on career success and organisational performance. Ruth provides statistical evidence supporting the effectiveness of mentoring, while Andy shares anecdotes and insights from his extensive experience in the field. Andy, Ruth, and Alan engage in lively exchanges, offering practical advice and expert insights on mentoring. The discussions highlight key points such as the different types of mentoring (traditional, reverse, and peer), the importance of formal and informal mentoring relationships, and the distinction between mentoring and coaching. Drawing from their collective expertise and their newly released book, "Financial Times Guide to Mentoring," they provide profound insights into the dynamics of mentoring relationships, the responsibilities of mentors, and the benefits of being mentored. Alan emphasises the often underestimated value of mentoring and highlights how it can significantly impact personal and professional development and relationships. Andy and Dr. Ruth stress the importance of trust, rapport, and mutual respect in fostering meaningful mentoring connections. By sharing real-world examples and research-backed strategies, they offer practical advice for both mentors and mentees. Imposter syndrome emerges as a common challenge for mentors, but Andy Lopata provides strategies for overcoming self-doubt and embracing the value they bring to the mentoring relationship. Dr. Ruth explores the concept of asynchronous mentoring, facilitated by modern communication tools, which opens up new opportunities for mentorship across different schedules and time zones. Additionally, Andy and Dr. Ruth discuss the significance of asking for guidance rather than directly seeking mentorship, highlighting the importance of building relationships and trust before formalising mentorship agreements. They underscore the value of fostering a mentoring culture within organisations, emphasising the benefits of supporting and rewarding mentorship initiatives. Listeners are encouraged to explore the comprehensive insights and actionable tips offered in the "Financial Times Guide to Mentoring,” which is available for purchase on Amazon and your favourite book retailer. Whether you're an experienced mentor, a prospective mentee, or someone interested in cultivating a mentoring culture, this episode provides invaluable perspectives and practical strategies to enhance your mentoring journey. Connect with Andy Lopata: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | X/Twitter | Youtube Connect with Dr. Ruth Gotian: Website | LinkedIn | X/Twitter | Youtube Connect with Alan Stevens: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | X/Twitter | Youtube

In this episode of the Connected Leadership Gold series, Andy Lopata revisits a crucial topic from April 2023, looking into the rise of artificial intelligence (AI). Andy brings a fresh perspective to the conversation around AI. He questions whether organisations are losing genuine human connections with their customers and stakeholders as they grow in size and complexity. Joining Andy is Ben Afia, a former brand strategist for Boots and an expert in culture, branding and communication. Ben shares insights from his extensive experience, shedding light on the evolving landscape where AI intersects with human interaction. Their conversation touches upon the early stages of AI integration in brands' communication strategies, highlighting both the opportunities and challenges. Ben emphasises the need for AI to reflect the values and behaviours of organisations, cautioning against generic experiences. Andy and Ben consider the delicate balance between control and empowerment in organisations. Drawing from anthropological studies and business models, they explore the challenge of maintaining consistency while allowing room for individuality and discretion. Andy and Ben examine the nuances of leadership, communication, and organisational culture. Andy reflects on his experience in direct sales, emphasising the limitations of scripted communication and the importance of authentic human connection. Ben shares insights on leveraging appreciative inquiry to unlock the potential within organisations, advocating for a coaching-style approach to leadership that empowers individuals and fosters genuine engagement. The discussion then centres on the evolving role of consultants, the need for leaders to prioritise listening and empathy, and the transformative power of coaching cultures within organisations. Andy and Ben underscore the importance of creating environments where individuals feel valued, supported, and empowered to drive meaningful change. Ben emphasises the reciprocal relationship between internal culture and external customer experience, highlighting the vital role of leadership in shaping both. Andy and Ben navigate the complexities of scaling organisations while preserving humanity in communication and relationships. They advocate for clear purpose, values, and behaviours as guiding principles to align teams and foster authentic connections, even in the age of advancing AI. Tune in to this thought-provoking conversation as Andy and Ben offer valuable insights into navigating the evolving landscape of leadership, communication, and human connection in a world increasingly influenced by technology. Connect with Andy Lopata: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | X/Twitter Youtube Connect with Ben Afia: Website | LinkedIn

In this episode of the Connected Leadership Gold series, Andy Lopata discusses the critical topic of overwhelm and burnout in today's fast-paced world. Joined by esteemed guests Dr. Katherine Semler and Dr. Amy Bradley, authors of the book "Running on Empty," the conversation explores the profound impact of excessive workload on individuals and organisations. Dr. Amy Bradley reflects on a pivotal moment during the COVID-19 pandemic when she recognised she was overwhelmed, noting similar patterns among peers. Dr. Katherine Semler highlights challenges in balancing well-being amid demanding work environments. Andy, Amy and Katherine discuss the role of technology, particularly the ubiquitous use of platforms like Zoom, which has led to the phenomenon of "Zoom fatigue." Andy underscores the importance of reevaluating scheduling practices to prevent back-to-back meetings and allow for essential breaks between engagements. There is a need for proactive measures to address burnout, both at an individual and an organisational level. The discussion progresses to advocate for open dialogue and supportive environments, where individuals feel empowered to prioritise self-care and seek assistance when needed. Additionally, the significance of tailored approaches is stressed, recognising that what may be restorative for one person could be overwhelming for another. Andy, with Dr. Katherine Semler and Dr. Amy Bradley, explores the complexities of burnout and overwhelm in various cultural and organisational contexts. Dr. Bradley highlights the importance of language and intentionality in addressing burnout, emphasising the need for genuine empathy and listening without judgment. Dr. Semler adds to the conversation by discussing the impact of toxic cultures on burnout, noting the extremes of either stigmatising or glorifying burnout within organisations. She emphasises the role of leadership in fostering a culture of support and openness, where emotional and practical support are prioritised and relationships are built on trust and reciprocity. The discussion also touches upon gender, ethnicity, and cultural differences in experiencing burnout, with Dr. Semler highlighting the added pressures faced by women, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic. Dr. Bradley emphasises the link between perfectionism and burnout, noting that individuals with perfectionist tendencies may be more susceptible to exhaustion. Overall, the interview emphasises the collective responsibility of individuals, families, communities, organisations, and societies in addressing burnout and reshaping the way work is approached to prevent its detrimental effects. The episode highlights the importance of fostering a culture of empathy, communication, and mutual support. By recognising the warning signs of burnout and taking proactive steps to address them, individuals and organisations can work towards creating healthier, more sustainable work environments. Connect with Andy Lopata: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | X/Twitter Youtube Connectwith Dr. Amy Bradley: LinkedIn  Connectwith Dr.Katherine Semler: Website |LinkedIn |

In this episode of the Connected Leadership Podcast, Andy Lopata welcomes Tendai Wileman. Tendai is Chief of Staff and Director of Organisational Change at Guy’s & St Thomas’ NHS Trust, the largest NHS organisation in the country. She has worked in healthcare for 20 years in various corporate and operational roles. Tendai shares her unexpected journey into the NHS and reflects on the pivotal role mentoring played in guiding her career path. Despite initial doubts about her potential, Tendai discusses how mentoring helped rebuild her confidence and shape her pathway into leadership. The conversation examines the importance of mentoring and supporting others, particularly for individuals from underrepresented backgrounds. Tendai shares insights into navigating the "minority tax" and balancing her role as a mentor while fulfilling her professional responsibilities. She emphasises the value of providing guidance while allowing individuals the autonomy to chart their own paths. Andy and Tendai also explore the ongoing commitment to learning and growth, both through formal mentoring relationships and informal interactions with colleagues. Tendai highlights the significance of reverse mentoring and the mutual learning that occurs when individuals share diverse perspectives. Andy and Tendai look at the concept of being a curator of ideas and how to incorporate our own views into discussions while remaining open to different perspectives. Tendai emphasises her approach of incorporating her opinions into a range of options, considering her experience while also recognising blind spots. She highlights the need for balance and logic in decision-making, acknowledging that the answer often lies somewhere in the middle. The conversation also touches on handling dissenting opinions and the challenge of maintaining a common agenda in complex organisations like the NHS. Tendai explains the impact of strikes on internal relationships and the NHS ability to deliver care effectively. Throughout the episode, Tendai's pragmatic approach to leadership shines through as she shares the complexities of managing relationships and driving organisational change in the healthcare sector. Her insights offer valuable lessons for leaders navigating similar challenges in high-pressure environments. Connect with Andy Lopata: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | X/Twitter Youtube Connect with Tendai Wileman: Instagram |LinkedIn | X/Twitter

Welcome to the Connected Leadership podcast, hosted by Andy Lopata. In this episode, Andy welcomes Antoinette Dale Henderson, an expert in leadership communications and author of "Leading with Gravitas." Antoinette is an executive coach and global keynote speaker with over 25 years’ experience in leadership communications. She specializes in strategically-driven, results-oriented masterclasses that make a powerful difference to executives, boards, and top teams in the UK and internationally. She’s a Fellow of the Professional Speaking Association and the Global Speakers Federation and is the outgoing Chair of the Board of Trustees for BelEve, a charity that inspires and empowers girls aged 8 to 18 to become leaders of their world. In today's fast-paced and dynamic business world, effective leadership requires more than just authority and expertise. It demands authenticity, connection, and a commanding presence that inspires trust and respect. Andy and Antoinette discuss the intricacies of leadership gravitas. Gravitas is a term often associated with seriousness and weightiness, but as Andy and Antoinette explored, it's much more nuanced than that. At its core, gravitas is about the ability to command respect, get taken seriously, and have your voice heard—all while staying true to your authentic self. It's not about putting on a facade or trying to be someone you're not. Instead, it's about finding the balance between projecting confidence and staying grounded in who you are. One of the central themes of the discussion was the concept of managed authenticity. In today's diverse and inclusive workplaces, leaders must be able to flex and adapt their behavior while remaining true to their core values and beliefs. This means being able to read the room, adjust your approach accordingly, and authentically connect with those around you. Humor also emerged as a key element of gravitas. Contrary to popular belief, humor can be a powerful tool for building connection and rapport with others, as long as it's used appropriately and in context. By incorporating humor into your leadership style, you can break down barriers, foster camaraderie, and create a more positive and engaging work environment. Additionally, Andy and Antoinette discussed the gender implications of gravitas and the importance of creating inclusive environments where everyone feels empowered to express their authentic selves. In today's rapidly evolving workplace landscape, diversity of thought and perspective is more important than ever, and leaders must actively work to create spaces where all voices are heard and valued. Ultimately, mastering gravitas is a journey—one that requires self-awareness, humility, and a commitment to continuous growth and development. By embracing authenticity, connecting with others on a deeper level, and cultivating a sense of gravitas, we can all become more effective and inspiring leaders in our respective fields Listen to the full episode of the Connected Leadership podcast to dive deeper into the topic of gravitas and explore actionable strategies for enhancing your leadership presence. Together, let's unlock the power of gravitas and lead with authenticity and impact. Connect with Andy Lopata: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | X/Twitter Youtube Connect with Antoinette Dale Henderson: Website | Instagram |LinkedIn | Youtube