Professional Relationships with Laura Ash and Kul Muhay

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

In this episode of the Connected Leadership podcast, Andy Lopata’s guest is Dr Andy Cope, a specialist in positive psychology. After 12 years of hard academic labour, he gained a Loughborough University PhD and became the UK’s first ever ‘Doctor of Happiness’. Dr Cope shares his journey from traditional psychology to becoming more interested in the effects of positive psychology and happiness. He explains how positive psychology focuses on wellness rather than just illness, seeking to understand what makes already happy people flourish and how others can learn from them. Dr Cope discusses the importance of intentional strategies and learned behaviours in achieving and maintaining happiness. He emphasises the significance of understanding one's own mental health and well-being, especially in today's fast-paced and challenging world. Andy and Dr Cope also examine the concept of "mental wealth" and the role of positive psychology in equipping individuals with the skills to take care of their own mental health. They highlight the impact of emotional contagion and the ripple effect of positivity. Dr Cope explains how an individual's well-being can influence the happiness of those around them, creating upward spirals of emotion. He also touches on the concept of "emotional soup," where everyone contributes to the overall emotional atmosphere in a social setting, with leaders having a particularly significant impact. Additionally, Dr Cope addresses the cultural differences between the US and the UK regarding positivity and happiness. He shares insights on the American "Pan Am smile" and the British tendency to downplay positivity, suggesting that genuine positivity and emotional contagion can transcend cultural differences. Andy and Dr Cope talk about the importance of effective leadership and creating a positive work environment. The need to move away from outdated leadership thinking and traditional approaches, such as the use of SMART objectives (specific, measurable, achievable, realistic, and time-bound), which Dr Cope believes are uninspiring and ineffective. Instead, he advocates setting ambitious and inspiring goals that encourage growth and creativity. Dr Cope promotes the importance of recognising and developing individual strengths rather than focusing on fixing weaknesses. He also challenges the concept of company values, suggesting that individuals prioritise their own values over those of the organisation. Andy agrees with Dr Cope's perspective and emphasises the value of focusing on strengths and building professional relationships. They both recognise the significance of psychological safety in creating an environment where individuals feel safe to be themselves at work. Overall, this episode offers valuable insights into effective leadership, the importance of psychological safety, and the need to move away from outdated approaches to goal-setting and development. Dr Cope's expertise and engaging storytelling make for a compelling and informative conversation. Connect with Andy Lopata: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | X/Twitter Youtube Connectwith Dr. Andy Cope: Website | Twitter |LinkedIn |  The Multiplier Effect" by Dr. Andy Cope

In this episode of The Connected Leadership podcast, Andy Lopata engages in a riveting conversation with Dawn Wray, co-founder of the Listening Collective, an organisation developed from a deeply held belief that when people thrive, then their organisations do too. Dawn is a former VP of a $1 billion financial institution and an experienced senior leader. In 2018, she trained as a relational gestalt psychotherapist. She values real and honest conversation and talks candidly about her personal experience and how she believes her psychotherapy training is vital to how we think about leadership, employee satisfaction and well-being, retention, and company culture. Andy and Dawn look into the essence of connection, exploring how we can bridge gaps and foster genuine understanding between individuals. Dawn emphasises the importance of being present and attuned to what's happening in the moment, both within us and in our interactions with others. Dawn discusses the power of active listening and the importance of being fully present in conversations. She highlights how genuine curiosity and openness can lead to more meaningful connections and understanding. Acknowledging the inevitability of biases and prejudices, Dawn advocates for honest self-awareness and empathy. She encourages listeners to challenge their assumptions and approach differences with an open mind. Dawn also shares insights on creating safe spaces for open and honest dialogue where individuals can express themselves without fear of judgment. Andy and Dawn also discuss the importance of conflict in conversations and how it can be channeled constructively. They emphasise the need for honesty and openness, particularly in leadership, to create an environment where people feel safe to express their views. They also touch on the topic of psychological safety and how it can be fostered through clear boundaries and structures. The conversation concludes with a discussion on the value of collaboration over competition and the importance of aligning personal values with organisational values. This episode offers valuable insights and practical tips for fostering genuine connection, understanding, and collaboration in both personal and professional settings. The episode highlights the need for authentic leadership and open communication to create a culture of trust and collaboration in organisations. SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE Connect with Andy Lopata: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | X/Twitter| Youtube Connect with Dawn Wray: Website | Instagram |LinkedIn | The Listening Collective RESOURCES MENTIONED “Conversations under the table" The Bridge: Dialogues across Cultures by TaliaLevine Bar-Yoseph Mark Carney: How we get what we value. BBC Reith Lectures December 2020: BBC Sounds - The Reith Lectures

In this episode of the Connected Leadership podcast, Andy Lopata welcomes David Hyner, a researcher and speaker with a passion for helping people set and achieve massive goals. David shares insights from his extensive experience working with diverse groups, from school kids to senior business leaders, and emphasises the importance of having fun in all endeavours. Andy and David discuss the concept of goal setting, challenging the widely accepted notion of SMART goals, emphasising setting realistic and achievable steps for big projects. Drawing from his research and interviews with over 258 top achievers, David highlights that successful individuals prioritise setting and achieving massive goals over SMART goals. He highlights the importance of combining effective goal-setting processes with the right mindset and behaviours. David talks about his personal journey, including his struggles with education and his transformation into a purpose-driven speaker. He shares heartwarming anecdotes of former students reaching out years later to express gratitude for his impact on their lives. David emphasises the similarities between working with school kids and senior leaders, stressing that both groups share insecurities and doubts. He advocates for leaders to connect with younger generations, leveraging reverse mentoring to prepare for the changing landscape of the workplace. He goes on to outline his steps to massive goals, emphasising the importance of breaking down goals into manageable steps and tackling the most challenging tasks first. He encourages listeners to prioritise personal development and maintain a mindset focused on growth and service. Andy and David probe the significance of taking action, seeking support, and embracing accountability on the journey towards achieving massive goals. David emphasises the importance of tackling the most daunting tasks first, referred to as "eating the sprout," and adopting a "go rhino" mindset, inspired by Scott Alexander's book, "Rhinoceros Success." Andy shares practical insights, such as the "ten-minute test" for utilising LinkedIn effectively, highlighting the impact of consistent small actions over time. They discuss the role of mentors, citing examples from personal experiences and emphasise the power of mastermind groups in providing diverse perspectives, fresh ideas, and crucial accountability. David elaborates on the historical origins of mastermind groups, tracing back to the Lunar Society, and stresses the transformative potential of surrounding oneself with individuals who challenge and support growth. Both David and Andy underscore the importance of seeking support, overcoming insecurities, and embracing accountability as essential components of success. Throughout the episode, Andy and David's lively discussion underscores the transformative power of goal-setting and the importance of fostering connections across generations to drive positive change. Listeners are encouraged to reflect on their goals, identify areas where they need support, and take proactive steps to engage with mentors, join mastermind groups, and commit to consistent action towards their aspirations. Resources to assist you in setting up and managing successful mastermind groups can be accessed through the links provided below. How to set up & run asuccessful mastermind group By David Hyner The Quick Reference Guideto Mastermind Groups by Andy Lopata Connect with Andy Lopata Website Connect with Professor David Hyner Website

In this episode of the Connected Leadership podcast, Andy Lopata hosts Hannah Wunsch, author of "The Autumn Ghost: How the Battle Against a Polio Epidemic Revolutionised Modern Medical Care," which was recommended by his colleague and co-author, Dr. Ruth Gotian. Despite his initial curiosity about the book's relevance to connected leadership, Lopata found himself engrossed in Wunsch's narrative about collaboration and competition during the polio epidemic in 1952. Hannah Wunsch, a critical care physician, Professor of Anesthesiology, and Vice Chair for Research in the Department of Anesthesiology at Weill Cornell Medicine, shares insights into her book's focus on the pivotal moment in medical history when anesthesiologist Bjorn Ibsen suggested a groundbreaking intervention to save polio patients. This discussion leads to reflections on the cultural differences in medical practices between Scandinavia and the United States, which Ibsen experienced during his training at Massachusetts General Hospital. Hannah emphasises how exposure to different medical systems broadened Ibsen's perspective, enabling him to challenge conventions and pioneer new approaches to patient care. Furthermore, Andy and Hannah explore the impact of World War II experiences on medical professionals and how those shared adversities forged deep bonds, influencing medical practices in subsequent years The conversation examines the importance of fostering open dialogue and interdisciplinary collaboration in healthcare, drawing parallels between historical medical salons and modern-day forums for knowledge exchange. Hannah highlights Ibsen's innovative thinking and willingness to engage with diverse perspectives as key factors in his ability to create the world's first modern intensive care unit. Andy and Hannah delve into the fascinating world of medical history, exploring the traditional hierarchy and segmentation of specialties in the medical field, particularly during the polio epidemic. Hannah shares insights into how this hierarchy initially hindered attempts to find cures and treatments for polio, highlighting the resistance faced by innovators like Ibsen. Despite initial reluctance, Henry Lassen ultimately deserves credit for being willing to break down barriers and listen to unconventional approaches. Reflecting on the past versus the present, Andy and Hannah discuss the persistence of hierarchy and specialisation in hindering innovation across various sectors, including healthcare and professional relationships. While there have been strides towards diversity and inclusivity, cronyism and siloed thinking remain prevalent challenges. The conversation also looks at the power of relationships and community support, exemplified by the immense volunteer effort during the polio epidemic. Hannah recounts the extraordinary sacrifice made by medical students who manually provided ventilation to patients, showcasing the strength of community response in times of crisis. Drawing parallels to navigating internal politics, Hannah emphasises the importance of active listening and withholding judgement, especially when faced with challenging situations. She highlights the value of synthesising information and understanding different perspectives to foster collaboration and achieve better outcomes. In conclusion, Hannah reflects on how her research has impacted her approach to teamwork and patient care, emphasising the importance of ensuring every voice is heard and valued. Ultimately, the discussion underscores the significance of cultural understanding, collaboration, and continuous learning in driving medical innovation and improving patient outcomes. Through Hannah's exploration of historical events and medical breakthroughs, listeners gain valuable insights into the interconnectedness of leadership, collaboration, and innovation in healthcare and professional relationships. Connect with Andy Lopata Website Connect with Professor Hannah Wunsch Website