After a successful career spanning engineering, sustainability and executive leadership within the aviation industry, Kathy shares why she chose to dedicate her work to developing leaders and supporting women to thrive in their careers.

The conversation explores leadership transitions, imposter syndrome, confidence, volunteering and the importance of creating workplaces where people feel they belong. Kathy also shares the inspiring work of Smart Works, a charity helping unemployed women regain confidence, prepare for interviews and return to employment.

Whether you're leading a team, navigating a career change or looking to make a greater impact through your leadership, this episode is full of practical insight and thoughtful reflection.

Connect with Kathy on LinkedIn

Email - kathymorrissey@purplebrilliance.com

Discover Purple Brilliance

Learn more about Smart Works

Drawing on a career that has spanned nursing, psychology, the NHS and coaching, Karen reflects on her journey and explains why she believes many coaches and leaders hold themselves back by trying too hard to follow the rules.

Together, they explore authenticity, storytelling, curiosity and the power of meaningful conversations. Karen shares the thinking behind her book Breaking the Coaching Code, why listening remains one of the most powerful skills we possess, and how leaders can create greater impact through clarity, compassion, curiosity and courage.

This episode is for anyone interested in leadership, coaching and the art of connecting with others.

Connect with Karen

Karen's book: Breaking the Coaching Code

Explore the Coach Tribe: www.thecoachtribe.com

Badri shares his personal journey from exploring different career paths to finding his purpose in teaching, coaching, and positive psychology. The conversation explores what truly drives happiness, why modern life often reduces peace and presence, and how leaders can better support wellbeing in themselves and their teams.

Badri offers a grounded perspective on happiness, connection, and the importance of human conversation in leadership.

The discussion also explores practical ways leaders can create happier environments, from simply asking better questions to increasing connection, reflection, and time in nature.

A thoughtful and reflective conversation on happiness, leadership, and what it really means to live and work well.

Connect with Badri on LinkedIn

Badri's books: Happiness A to Z and Mosaic Leadership

Brady shares insights from his work in leadership development, including why organisations struggle to have honest conversations, how conflict avoidance and over-agreeability can limit performance, and why shifting from “preferences” to “needs” can transform how teams operate.

The discussion explores the role of challenge, psychological safety, and intentional dialogue in building healthier organisational cultures. Brady also introduces practical tools and interventions that help leaders reduce tension, improve collaboration, and surface the conversations that too often go unsaid.

A practical and energetic conversation on leadership, communication, and the hidden dynamics that shape team performance.

Find out more about Juice Inc.

Brady's latest book: The Power of Conversation

Connect on LinkedIn

The conversation focuses on her influential book Wilful Blindness and unpacks the human behaviours that drive poor decision-making, organisational silence and ethical failure. Margaret explains how exhaustion, conformity, hierarchy and excessive competition can all reduce a leader’s ability to see clearly, and why speaking up in organisations is far rarer than most leaders assume.

She also shares practical ways leaders can design environments where people are more likely to challenge, think clearly and raise concerns early.

A powerful and practical discussion for anyone interested in leadership, culture and how organisations can avoid repeating the same avoidable mistakes.

Connect with Margaret: Website: Margaret Heffernan Substack: Available via www.mheffernan.com

Together, they explore why every leader has both “light” and “shadow”, how unconscious behaviours shape teams and organisations, and why leadership growth starts with inner development, not just external performance.

Max shares insights from his work developing servant leaders across education, politics, and coaching, including the impact of helping leaders confront the gap between who they aspire to be and how they actually show up under pressure.

The conversation also explores:

• Why self-awareness alone isn’t enough
• How shadow shows up in leadership and organisational culture
• The relationship between coaching, integrity, and emotional responsibility
• Why AI is making inner development more important than ever
• How leaders can build habits of reflection without overcomplicating the process

A thought-provoking episode for leaders, coaches, and anyone interested in conscious leadership and personal growth.

Connect with Max on LinkedIn

Find out more about the Centre for Courageous Wholeness

Max's book: Developing Servant Leaders at Scale

Find out more about Max

Drawing on his extensive experience at Microsoft, Amazon, and beyond, Jonathan explores what it really takes to build inclusive environments where people can thrive. The conversation dives into practical leadership behaviours, from daily habits and one-to-one conversations to hiring practices and speaking up when it matters most.

Together, they discuss how leaders can move beyond surface-level inclusion to develop deeper awareness, stronger judgement, and more intentional decision-making. It’s a grounded, insightful conversation about leadership, accountability, and the small practices that shape culture over time.

A practical and thought-provoking episode for anyone interested in leadership, culture, and better ways of working.

Find out more: Global Diversity Partners

Reach Jonathan at: jmstutz@gmail.com

Connect with Jonathan on LinkedIn

In this episode of Beyond Potential, Tom Emery and Tom Mason welcome back executive coach and host of The Look & Sound of Leadership podcast, Tom Henschel, for a thoughtful and wide-ranging conversation on leadership, coaching, self-awareness, and communication.

Together, they explore why preparation matters more than leaders realise, the growing challenge of speaking up and being heard, and how leaders can give feedback without judgement. The conversation dives into emotional responsibility, deep listening, leadership authenticity, and the pressure many leaders feel to “fix” every problem around them.

A standout moment is Tom Henschel’s brilliant analogy comparing therapy to repairing potholes in the road, while coaching helps people learn how to drive around them. It’s a simple but powerful way of understanding the role coaching can play in leadership development.

The episode also takes an unexpected turn into gardening, California wildflowers, and the importance of slowing down and staying curious.

A thoughtful, practical, and deeply human conversation for leaders, coaches, and anyone interested in personal growth.

Find Tom on LinkedIn.

Listen to The Look & Sound of Leadership Podcast: episode #246 Coaching versus Therapy.

Download the Giving Upward Feedback PDF.

Link to the Wildflower Hotline

Adam shares his journey into leadership and development, from delivering sofas and studying for his CIPD in the evenings, through to leading L&D teams and building his own coaching and team development business.

The conversation explores the growing pressure leaders face in modern organisations, particularly the impact of constant meetings, operational demands and lack of space for meaningful development. Adam reflects on why leaders often become stuck in the day-to-day, and how this can unintentionally limit the growth and confidence of their teams.

The episode also focuses on the importance of team development and why organisations often prioritise developing individual leaders while overlooking the collective performance of teams. Adam shares his perspective on mindset change, high-performing team cultures and the role self-awareness plays in leadership effectiveness.

A practical and honest conversation about leadership, development and creating environments where teams can thrive together.

Connect with Adam on LinkedIn

'That Training Guy' - LinkedIn page

Perry shares his perspective on how leaders are approaching the future of work, and where many are getting it wrong. The conversation explores the tendency to look for a single answer, when in reality there are multiple possible futures, each shaped by different choices and conditions.

The discussion focuses on the shift from traditional job structures towards more dynamic, human-centred ways of working, where skills, capability and energy take precedence over rigid roles. Perry also highlights the increasing complexity leaders face, balancing legacy systems with emerging ways of working, and why this requires a different mindset.

A key theme throughout is the changing role of the leader, moving away from having the answers, towards creating the conditions where answers can emerge from across the organisation.

This episode offers a practical perspective on how leaders can navigate uncertainty and rethink how work is designed.

Follow Perry on LinkedIn

Discover Perry's books and substack

Visit PTHR

Jacob shares his perspective on how leadership is evolving in the context of AI, and why organisations risk losing critical thinking as these tools become more widely adopted. The conversation introduces the concept of “human prompting” - the ability for leaders to ask better questions and draw out human insight, rather than relying on AI-generated responses.

The discussion explores how companies are approaching AI, where many are getting it wrong, and the growing gap between adoption and understanding. Jacob also reflects on the future of leadership, and why human skills such as judgment, discernment and communication will become more valuable as AI continues to advance.

This episode offers a clear and practical perspective on how leaders can adapt, and why the future of work will place greater emphasis on what makes us human.

Explore more from Jacob

Reach Jacob on email - jacob@thefutureorganization.com

Andrew shares how his background in theatre shaped his approach to leadership development, and why the skills used on stage translate directly into how leaders show up in organisations. At the centre of the conversation is one core idea: listening is not just about hearing words, but about making people feel heard.

The discussion explores how self-orientation gets in the way of effective listening, why leaders often default to solutions too quickly, and how small shifts in attention can change the dynamic of a conversation. Andrew also shares practical ways to stay present, manage distraction, and create the conditions for more meaningful communication.

This episode offers a clear and practical perspective on leadership, grounded in one essential capability: the ability to listen without agenda.

Discover more of Andrew's work

Margaret shares how a pivotal moment of feedback early in her leadership journey led her to question how self-aware she really was, and ultimately shaped her work around leadership development. Drawing on her experience across business and academia, she explains why understanding yourself is the foundation of effective leadership.

The conversation explores how leaders can build greater self-awareness, why interpersonal skills matter more than technical expertise as you progress, and how feedback and reflection can unlock meaningful change. Margaret also introduces a set of powerful questions designed to help leaders better understand their values, behaviours and impact on others.

This episode offers a clear and practical perspective on leadership, centred on one core idea: you cannot lead others effectively until you understand yourself.

Connect with Margaret on LinkedIn

Drawing on her experience at Microsoft and over two decades coaching senior executives, Sabina shares how even the most capable leaders can begin to act differently under pressure, often without realising the impact it has on their teams.

A key part of the conversation is the idea of “blank space”, intentionally creating time to step away from the noise and think more clearly. Sabina explains why this practice is essential for better decision-making, stronger relationships, and more effective leadership.

The episode also explores practical ways to lead with greater awareness, including how to delegate more effectively, avoid common leadership traps, and create space for others to contribute. It’s a thoughtful and grounded conversation for anyone looking to lead with more clarity, consistency, and impact.

Check out Sabina's website

From setting her sights on a career at KPMG at just 14 years old to ultimately launching her own business during the uncertainty of COVID, Nicola’s journey is one of continuous evolution. What began as a moment of clarity on a 5K run quickly turned into the creation of a fast-growing advisory firm built on strong values, clear vision, and a commitment to doing things differently.

Throughout the conversation, Nicola reflects on the realities of stepping away from a successful corporate career and into entrepreneurship, sharing honest insights into the challenges of scaling a business and transitioning from being a technical expert to becoming a leader. She speaks openly about redefining her sense of purpose, learning to build trust and culture, and what it takes to attract and develop high-performing teams.

The episode also explores the personal side of leadership. Nicola discusses how she manages pressure, builds resilience, and stays present in a fast-paced environment, as well as the importance of creating balance and defining success on her own terms rather than following external expectations.

This is a thoughtful and inspiring conversation for anyone navigating leadership, growth, or the decision to step into something new.

Connect with Nicola on LinkedIn

Marty shares his journey from clinical psychology to scaling and selling a business, and how those experiences shaped his perspective on leadership. At the centre of the conversation is the idea of “blind spots”, the things we don't see about ourselves that can ultimately hold us back. Often, these blind spots are tied to our greatest strengths, which, when overplayed, can start to work against us.

In this episode, we explore:

• Why even high-performing leaders get stuck

• How strengths can become liabilities over time

• What it takes to recognise when your usual approach isn’t working

• Practical ways to uncover and address your blind spots

A thoughtful and practical conversation for anyone looking to improve their leadership and understand the impact they have on others.

More of Marty's work

Marty's book - Blindspotting

Drawing on his journey from leading national charities to building a global productivity consultancy, Graham shares how his experiences sparked a deep interest in productivity, focus and turning ideas into action.

Together, they explore what productivity really means in today’s fast-paced working world. Graham explains why productivity is not about doing more, but about creating space for what truly matters. He also shares practical insights on managing information overload, developing a trusted “second brain”, and protecting time for quality thinking.

They also discuss the link between kindness, trust and psychological safety in high-performing teams, and why clarity is essential for effective leadership.

A thoughtful conversation for leaders looking to improve focus, performance and team culture.

Find out more about Graham's work

Graham’s books – How to Be a Productivity Ninja and Kind: The quiet power of kindness at work

Lisa is the co-author of Permanence, written with renowned executive coach Marshall Goldsmith, and the author of the international bestseller All the Time in the World. Drawing on her experience advising CEOs, boards and senior leaders, Lisa shares insights into why organisations rarely fail because of bad ideas, but instead struggle when leaders lose alignment under pressure.

Together, they explore the research behind Permanence and the surprisingly powerful practice of asking yourself a simple set of reflective questions each day. Lisa explains how daily reflection builds accountability, drives behavioural change, and helps leaders stay focused on what truly matters in environments defined by pressure, speed and complexity.

They also discuss the role of systems thinking in leadership, why external validation can become a trap for high performers, and how small, consistent behaviours shape long-term success.

A thought-provoking conversation for leaders looking to turn insight into action and build leadership habits that create lasting impact.

Find out more about Lisa Broderick's work

Lisa's books - Permanence and All the Time in the World

Grounded in the research of Amy Edmondson, psychological safety has become embedded in modern leadership language. It appears in strategy documents, leadership frameworks and company values. But as its popularity has grown, so has the risk that it becomes a buzzword rather than a lived reality.

In this conversation, the two Toms explore what psychological safety really looks like under pressure. They discuss why it is often misunderstood as “being nice,” why high standards and high safety are not opposites, and how leaders’ stress responses can unintentionally erode the very culture they are trying to build.

Drawing on insights from The Five Dysfunctions of a Team and Radical Candor, they unpack the relationship between trust, challenge and performance, and why emotional maturity is at the heart of it all.

If you’re leading in a complex, high-pressure environment and want to create genuine psychological safety, this episode will give you practical reflections to act on.

Related Beyond Potential episodes: Our conversations with Tom Henschel on culture and feedback, and with Amanda Potter, expand on many of the themes explored here.

Drawing on over 20 years’ experience each in HR and operational leadership, Sue and Dean share their perspectives on how HR can move beyond policy-led practice to drive meaningful organisational impact. Together, they explore the realities of applying people strategy in complex business environments, the importance of balancing commercial priorities with employee experience, and why understanding operations is critical to effective leadership.

They also reflect on their own journeys through corporate HR, what led them to launch HR Unfiltered, and how their work through So People supports organisations to rethink how leadership, coaching and people strategy come together to support performance, accountability and growth.

A practical conversation for leaders looking to rethink how HR best practice translates into meaningful impact across their organisation.

Find out more about SO PEOPLE.

Follow Sue on LinkedIn

Follow Dean on LinkedIn

From the early days of recording the very first episode to building a platform that shares insights from real leadership challenges faced by clients every day, this Toms Talk explores why Beyond Potential was created and what it’s really all about.

They discuss:

• How the podcast has evolved since episode one

• Why leaders are increasingly turning to podcasts as a learning tool

• The role of honest conversations in leadership development

• Insights gained from working with leaders across the UK and beyond

• Exciting upcoming guests from both the UK and US

If you're passionate about leadership, growth, and unlocking potential, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the thinking behind Beyond Potential and where it's heading next.

If you'd like to suggest a future podcast guest or put yourself forward, we would love to hear from you: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfWNcuAGIzUtjDcY3jzWdlqrMSav0tEUCxgfTLYuy2-HEtk6Q/viewform?usp=header

They revisit insights from recent guest conversations, including Zach Mercurio’s work on mattering, and explore a common leadership challenge: what if helping people feel valued doesn’t come naturally to you? Through practical examples, they discuss how routines, contracting, curiosity and feedback can help leaders build meaningful connection, even when it feels uncomfortable.

The conversation also turns to the evolving nature of coaching. both Toms reflect on whether traditional coaching is always enough for senior leaders, and why thinking partnerships, deeper upfront work and community are becoming increasingly important in lonely, high-pressure roles.

The episode also links to Toms upcoming free webinar on stepping up to the C-suite, exploring the mindset, behaviours and presence required to lead effectively at the most senior levels. You can sign up for free: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/-RqMVT_BS4mQzEW688-fww

A thoughtful, wide-ranging conversation about leadership, presence, community, and why sometimes slowing down is exactly what helps you move forward.

Drawing on decades of qualitative research, Zach explores why feeling seen, heard, valued and needed is at the heart of meaningful work and why no wellbeing initiative, engagement survey or leadership framework can replace the impact of everyday human interactions.

Together, they discuss:

• why “mattering” is a missing ingredient in modern organisations
• how leadership behaviours shape energy, motivation and wellbeing
• the danger of transactional leadership and checklist culture
• why leadership should be treated as an occupation, not a promotion
• simple, practical ways leaders can help people feel they truly matter

A powerful conversation for leaders who want to move beyond programmes and create cultures where people and performance, genuinely thrive.

Follow Zach on LinkedIn

Explore more of Zach's work

The Power of Mattering

The Invisible Leader

Together they explore how leadership mistakes can become defining moments, why marginal gains matter, and how redefining success unlocks real potential.

Drawing on her background as an elite athlete and senior leader, Michelle shares powerful insights from her book Real Wins on conscious leadership, resilience and self-awareness.

This episode is thoughtful, honest and packed with practical insight for leaders, coaches and anyone interested in reaching their full potential, personally and professionally.

Find out more about Michelle's work

Follow Michelle on LinkedIn

Real Wins by Michelle Moore

Michelle's LinkedIn Learning course

In this episode of the Beyond Potential podcast, Andy Poole, Co-Founder of Zest, joins Tomas to explore how leaders can use storytelling to build trust, communicate more effectively, and inspire action. From sharing mistakes and vulnerability to knowing when not to tell a story, Andy offers grounded, experience-led insights into what great leadership communication really looks like.

This episode is ideal for leaders who want to be more authentic, engaging, and impactful, without feeling like they need to “perform”.

Follow Andy on LinkedIn and you can find out more about Zest here: www.zest-learning.com

Drawing on real client experiences, current workplace trends and their own leadership reflections, they explore the five critical shifts leaders need to embrace in the year ahead.

From moving beyond control toward stronger judgment, to protecting energy over time, to leaning into AI without letting it weaken capability, this episode is packed with practical insight.

They also unpack why psychological safety can no longer be optional, and how authenticity increasingly differentiates leaders who thrive from those who stall.

This is an honest, thought-provoking conversation for founders, CEOs and anyone committed to leading well in 2026.

From proactive habits to managing triggers, from letting go of control to reframing perfectionism, the two Toms unpack the tools leaders need to navigate uncertainty with clarity and confidence. They discuss the importance of support networks, vulnerability, and the reality that mindset isn’t fixed, it’s something you can train, shape, and strengthen.

This episode is packed with relatable stories, practical strategies, and reflections to help you prepare for a more intentional, grounded, and growth-focused 2026.

Plus, don’t miss Tom's free webinar in January on mindset for the year ahead: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/suISBZksSvG28UUlDMDWcg

It’s an honest and insightful conversation about what great coaching really requires, why poor coaching can be damaging, and how leaders and organisations can create the right conditions for transformative work. Sam also reflects on her own career, the lessons she’s carried forward, and the unexpected story of how Brian Cox ended up on her podcast.

A thoughtful, warm and deeply practical episode for anyone invested in leadership, coaching or people development.

Miranda Cain, Rob Clarke and Sean Spurgin draw on consulting work and the ideas in their book 'Dropping the C-Bomb: Why Team Climate Crushes Culture' to show how leaders can shape climate through proximity, consistent behaviours, early conversations and by removing everyday friction points.

They set out pragmatic tools from “illuminating awesome” (catching people doing things right) to shrinking change into tiny, repeatable actions and show how these simple habits produce measurable gains in engagement, customer outcomes and retention.

The episode makes a practical case: policies and big initiatives won’t stick unless leaders change what they do each day.

Christina’s career has been anything but linear. From widening access to higher education, to representing rider and driver communities across global tech platforms, to scaling operations impacting over a million drivers across 54 countries, her journey has shaped a unique perspective on how organisations grow, and how people thrive within them.

Together, they explore the pressures of high-growth environments, why emotional intelligence is a commercial advantage, and the truth behind gender representation in tech, including why thousands of women leave the sector each year, and why it’s not for the reasons most people assume.

The conversation dives into:

• Why “high growth” shouldn’t mean low emotional intelligence
• The hidden cost of losing women in tech and why the real issue isn’t childcare
• The structural and behavioural barriers stopping women from progressing
• Why leadership stereotypes create narrow definitions of success
• How culture, systems, and emotional intelligence work together not in isolation
• The role leaders play in shaping environments where diverse thinkers can thrive
• Why organisations must stop trying to “fix the individual” and start redesigning the system

Christina brings honesty, clarity and nuance, sharing personal stories, sharp insights, and a reminder that leadership and inclusion are not add-ons. They’re business-critical.

They explore why so many leaders and teams get stuck waiting for circumstances to change, and how the most effective ones instead take deliberate, consistent action to shape their outcomes.

From breaking limiting beliefs and reframing self-talk, to the importance of routines, boundaries, and consistency, this episode offers practical ways to reclaim your sense of control, both at work and in life.

If you’ve ever felt like things are “happening to you” instead of “through you”, this conversation will help you reset, refocus, and act with intent.

🎧 Tune in for insights as Tom & Tom unpack what it really means to lead and live with agency.

Drawing on ideas from his soon to be released book ‘Be More Strategic: 12 essential practices to build the life and career you want’, Charlie unpacks how leaders can create clarity, make better decisions, and move from reacting to leading with intent.

They discuss how to:

• Turn reflection into practical action
• Develop a “strategic lens” to spot patterns and possibilities
• Balance short-term pressures with long-term perspective
• Build confidence through self-awareness and curiosity

It’s a conversation that challenges the idea of strategy as something abstract or corporate, showing instead how it’s a daily practice of awareness, courage, and purpose.

‘Be More Strategic: 12 essential practices to build the life and career you want’ – launches 6th November find out more and sign up for the launch offer here: https://www.teammandarin.com/be-more-strategic-book

They unpack how leaders can move beyond firefighting and task management to see the bigger picture, connecting dots across markets, people, and purpose.

From widening your perspective and reflecting on your time, to linking every action back to your “why,” this episode offers practical ways to build clarity and foresight into your leadership.

If you'd like to take a look, the model is available at www.beyond-potential.co.uk 

Wes shares powerful insights into how organisations can move beyond surface-level engagement and truly enable purpose in the workplace.

Drawing from his background in positive psychology, Wes introduces the three key drivers of meaningful work: community, contribution, and challenge. Wes explains how these elements can shape more human and purpose-led cultures.

From leadership behaviours to structural design, the conversation explores practical strategies for embedding meaning into everyday work.

Whether you're a leader, HR professional, or simply looking to connect more deeply with your work, this episode offers valuable perspectives and actionable ideas.

Being a commercial genius, is not about turning every leader into a finance expert. Instead, Tom Mason explores what it really means to think commercially as a leader: understanding where value is created, thinking across systems, beyond function and balancing the short and long term.

Together, the Toms discuss how understanding the value levers you can pull that will help you have a greater impact. Curiosity, confidence, and questioning can help leaders translate data into insight, make better decisions under pressure, and connect commercial sense with human impact.

If you’ve ever felt daunted by the ‘numbers side’ of leadership, this episode will help you reframe what being commercially minded truly means. How to strengthen that muscle to drive value without losing sight of people and purpose.

The conversation delves into the complexities of leadership, the importance of finding one's voice, and the essential qualities of trustworthiness. Andrew emphasises the need for authenticity and emotional connection in leadership, offering practical tips for aspiring leaders to cultivate their unique voices and build trust within their teams.

The episode concludes with Andrew's insights on the significance of making one's voice heard in the pursuit of progress.

Follow Andrew on Linkedln

Most people are busy, but busy is not the same as impactful. In fact, some of the busiest people - those running from meeting to meeting - are not impactful at all.

Impact makers don't just show up; they use initiative to move things forward. They're outcome-focused, working with the business to understand what the collective goal is, how to reach it, and encouraging others to rally behind it.

In this episode, we explore methods and techniques you can use to become an impact maker. From prioritisation tools, like the Eisenhower matrix, to learning to delegate with clarity and intention, you can ensure your time is used effectively.

Listen to the episode to find out how creating new rhythms and rituals will enable you to be more output-focused, and what behaviours you need to embody to become an impact maker.

If you missed the previous episodes in the series, listen back here:

1. Discovering your leadership purpose
2. Role of insightful navigator in leadership
3. The importance of being a culture catalyst
4. Boosting performance as an influence architect

Learn more about Beyond Potential, HEX and Potentia, and connect with Tom Emery and Tom Mason on LinkedIn.

He shared his journey from footballer through to performance coach, including his experiences building coaching and mentoring businesses, Sanctus and MARA.

George reveals how stepping away from Sanctus allowed him space to reconnect with what he enjoyed - running - and, from there, MARA was born.

He explains how practising presence, whether in fitness, business or life, unlocks performance by allowing us to be free of distractions and negative thought. His vision is to enlighten others to the power of meditation and enable them to perform and feel better by giving them tools to remain present.

George's story is an inspiring one, full of self-awareness and moments of growth, as well as vulnerability. You won't want to miss it.

Follow George on LinkedIn 

Watch George's TEDTalk 

Learn more about MARA 

An influence architect uses trust to move the needle on performance. By influencing those above and around them, they improve the performance of themselves, their team, and the business.

But being an influence architect isn't about being the loudest or most opinionated in the room, it's about bringing others along on the journey by utilising the trust you have already built with them.

Join us in this episode as we explore how you can use situational leadership to influence by adapting your style, and to find out why self reflection is so important at every stage of the leadership model.

Catch up on the previous episodes in the series here:

1. Discovering your leadership purpose
2. Role of insightful navigator in leadership
3. The importance of being a culture catalyst

Connect with Tom Emery and Tom Mason on LinkedIn.

Find out more about: Beyond Potential, HEX and Potentia.

Do you take the time to make your team feel valued or like they matter? Do you ensure that the objective of every meeting is clear from the beginning? Do you take a breath before emotionally responding to feedback?

In this episode, we explore how microhabits can help you become more intentional and mindful. How making time for building deeper relationships with your team can actually save you time in the long run.

If you're feeling overloaded, overwhelmed and burnt out, we also have some ideas that might help you build better boundaries and intentional with your own wellbeing.

Culture often feels like an intangible concept, but as the Toms explore, it’s the invisible hand that shapes behaviours, performance, and how teams experience work.

They break down what it really means to be a culture catalyst: from building trust and psychological safety, to driving inclusion, setting accountability, and role-modelling the behaviours you want to see.

Drawing on leadership models such as Patrick Lencioni’s Five Dysfunctions of a Team, Tuckman’s team development model, and Amy Edmondson’s work on psychological safety, they show how leaders at every level can actively shape microcultures within their teams, and why these feed into the wider organisational culture.

The message is clear: culture isn’t something handed down from the CEO or written on the office wall. It’s something leaders create, protect, and sustain every day through intentional action and agency.

Short, sharp, and packed with practical insights, this 10-minute episode is designed to help you reflect on your own team culture and how you can become the catalyst for a more inclusive, high-performing environment.

Connect with Tom Emery and Tom Mason on LinkedIn.

Find out more about: Beyond Potential, HEX and Potentia.

They discuss the energy and resolutions that come with September, share personal and professional updates, and highlight standout guests and episodes. The hosts also offer a behind-the-scenes look at their evolving leadership brand, Beyond Potential, and their respective businesses, Potentia and HEX.

Dive in!

Tom shared his experience working for a scale-up and how they manage the constant pace of change by building a culture of experimentation. He discussed key disruptors in the tech industry, including the opportunities and challenges associated with using AI to scale and change business models, and what that means for jobs.

As the conversation turned to culture, Tom explained why it's important to develop intrinsic motivation amongst a team through personal development, a sense of purpose and understanding what makes people tick. He talked about Zappi's culture of experimentation, how they're upskilling and engaging teams, and revealed how he manages 'crunchy' conversations.

Connect with Tom on LinkedIn.

Remote working, hustle culture and the AI boom have all contributed to an increased pace in today's working world. For many, including senior HR leaders, this results in feelings of constant firefighting and reactivity, instead of leading with purpose and consideration. So, how do we deal with this pace, learn to slow down, and start to take agency over our lives?

The Sustain Collective brings senior HR leaders together to become more impactful leaders whilst ensuring their wellbeing remains a priority. It combines Leanne's expertise in workplace wellbeing and personal sustainability with Tom's lived experience as a CHRO and his passion for supporting HR leaders to reach their potential.

The initiative includes peer discussion and support, one-to-one coaching, plus monthly in-person meets in London. This isn't just a place to complain about the struggles of HR leadership; it's a space to be challenged and receive guidance and support to enable you to make a change. 

Find out more about The Sustain Collection, get your personalised report and sign up to the waitlist here: https://sustain-collective-waitlist.scoreapp.com/

Find out more about Leanne: https://leannespencer.co.uk/ 

Learn more about Tom and HEX: https://www.hex-development.com/ 

Tom took us on a tour of his career journey, from acting, through teaching, to coaching, and the transferable skills between the roles. He told us how his podcast began - right back in 2008 - when someone told him he had a great voice for audio, and he went from having no idea what a podcast was to launching within weeks.

We discussed at length his tools and rules for turning upward feedback into a learning conversation, including how finger-pointing won't yield results, the importance of framing to encourage better outcomes, and why you need to approach a conversation with solutions, not just problems.

Tom explained how learning conversations can take time and repetition, and revealed how approaching a discussion assuming that nothing will change can actually take the pressure off.

It's an insightful and enjoyable listen.

Find Tom on LinkedIn.

Listen to The Look & Sound of Leadership Podcast.

Find out more about Essential Communications. 

Download the Giving Upward Feedback PDF.

Citing research and tips from his book, 'Ping', Andrew left no stone unturned when it came to advice on virtual communication, including choosing the best channel, agreeing an appropriate frequency, and how to decide when is a good time to follow up.

He covered:

• The benefits of camera on versus off
• When it's better to pick up the phone
• Why voice notes are so divisive
• How to make your meetings more engaging
• The fine balance between over and under-communication

Andrew explained how his immune deficiency drove his passion for the subject area, his approach to his research, and talked us through the PING Framework. You'll also find out what people really think about your typos! 

We learned a lot from this conversation and know you will too.

Follow Andrew on LinkedIn.

Find out more about the book and access free tools and resources on the Ping Group's website.  

Felix spoke to us about the work he and his team do at Instant Impact to support organisations with talent acquisition through their advanced tech stack and specialist recruiters. He discusses the new, and fast-growing, transformation side of the business, an area focused on supporting organisations to successfully adopt and integrate AI.

During our chat, he spoke of the challenges many businesses are facing as they try to keep up with the pace of AI transformation, and reveals how those managing it most successfully are the ones investing in dedicated resource and capability that enable them to focus on AI fully. A solution, he says, may sound obvious, but he feels many still aren't doing. 

The conversation also moved to Felix's podcast 'We Need to Talk About HR', including the story behind setting it up (and choosing the show's name), how he decides what to discuss on each episode, and his experiences with his guests.

You can find Felix Mitchell on LinkedIn.

Listen to the We Need to Talk About HR podcast. 

Using findings from a comprehensive study of almost 3,000 service partners, Matt discussed the five types of partners found across professional services and how the attributes of one of them, 'The Activator', consistently drives growth.

He discussed the decline in client loyalty, the reasons why, and how the Activator still succeeds, giving real examples of ways they outshine other types, including in the art of the pitch.

It's a must-listen for anyone focused on engaging and winning clients.

Follow Matt on LinkedIn.

Find out more about Matt's work on his website and DCM Insights website

But it’s not all doom and gloom. Amidst the challenges, we’re seeing encouraging signs: organisations investing in their people, leaders becoming more intentional, and teams looking for connection, clarity and care.

The Toms share what they’re noticing in their work with leaders and teams across industries – including real examples from recent coaching and development sessions. They talk candidly about the pressure to do more with less, the reality of change fatigue, and how leaders can build resilience without burning out. And if you haven’t already, we encourage you to revisit our recent conversation with Wyndham James, where we explore the importance of consistency and alignment when leading through change, especially when it comes to return-to-office expectations.

This episode is packed with practical reflections, mindset shifts, and book recommendations for anyone looking to lead more intentionally through the second half of the year.

Cues: Master the Secret Language of Charismatic Communication by Vanessa Van Edwards

The Activator Advantage: What Today's Rainmakers Do Differently by Matthew Dixon, Rory Channer, Karen Freeman, and Ted McKenna

We unpack Wyndham’s BluePrint philosophy, a compassionate framework that helps us understand how our early inclusion criteria shape our behaviours, often unconsciously, and how we can take responsibility for rewriting the narrative. We reflect on shame, identity, and leadership, plus you'll take away practical insights into using the BluePrint to shift behaviour, lead more intentionally, and create the life (and workplace) you really want.

Whether you’re navigating a personal turning point or leading others through change, this is an episode that we hope will challenge you, inspire you, and stay with you.

Connect with Wyndham James:

Via his website: https://www.wyndhamjames.com/ 

LinkedIn 

Instagram

YouTube

In it, we focus on the role of the insightful navigator. Referring to your internal compass, the insightful navigator is guided by your purpose, which acts as your north star when making decisions about where to focus your time and energy. (Check out the previous episode for tips on identifying your purpose).

We cover a lot of ground in this one, from the importance of self-awareness and reflection, to the need for curiosity and regulating stress to ensure your demeanour remains one of calm and clarity.

We also speak about the difference between reflection and rumination, so your experiences are used as grounds for learning, not negative self-talk.

More on our leadership model here: www.beyond-potential.co.uk/model 

Without a clear purpose, it's difficult to lead effectively. In this episode, we cover ways you can identify your purpose.

We discuss the power of insightful questions - like 'how do you want others to experience you?' and 'how do you want to move forward?' - and reveal tools to support self-discovery and unearth your purpose.  

Reflection and feedback is key to growth. Have a listen to the episode to find out why you won't regret carving out time to find your purpose, and improve your resilience. 

Learn more about our transformative leadership model here: www.beyond-potential.co.uk/model 

In this episode, we discuss the journey we've had so far after 44 episodes. We reflect on how much we've enjoyed the last year, how the experience differed from our expectations, and the many things we've learned along the way - including the art of asking good interview questions.

We've welcomed fantastic guests onto the podcast in the last 12 months, and want to thank them all for being brave, sharing their stories and teaching us new insights.

And a big thank you to our listeners too. We always welcome your feedback, please share it with us by emailing: info@beyond-potential.co.uk.

Enjoy the episode, and here's to making it to episode 100!

More about our leadership programme here: https://beyond-potential.co.uk/

Bringing together our collective expertise into one exciting brand, as Beyond Potential, Tom and Tom are partnering with organisations and leaders across the UK and beyond to enhance leadership capability, build high-performing teams, and drive business success.

Their approach is grounded in real-world experience and evidence-based practice, brought to life through immersive learning tailored to the realities of modern leadership.

In this episode, they introduce the Beyond Potential Leadership Programme — a high-impact development journey for senior leaders and high-potential talent.

We discuss the journey so far, from podcast to flagship programme. Revealing the unique aspects of the programme and explaining how we can tailor it to your business's needs.

Listen and learn about the six core areas of business, people and self-leadership that the programme covers.

Find out more and enquire about the Beyond Potential Programme here: https://beyond-potential.co.uk/

From a shy introvert who dreaded public speaking to one of the most trusted voices in leadership development, Dave shares his personal story of becoming a more intentional, empathetic leader. With insights from his early struggles in management, to the pivotal role Dale Carnegie played in his development, and how leaders can bridge the gap between knowing and doing.

We explore how to move from knowledge to action, why “trying less” might help you grow more, and how small, consistent steps can lead to lasting behaviour change. We also unpack the importance of reflection and how intentional behaviour change can drive performance, all with the humility and clarity that have made Dave’s podcast essential listening for leaders around the world.

Connect with Dave on LinkedIn.

Find out more about the Coaching for Leaders podcast

We discuss:

• The emotional responses to change
• How talking these feelings out can help you to process them
• Ways to approach decision-making in a structured way

Have a listen for some practical steps you can take when faced with significant change.

Enjoy the episode!

Gary explains the concept of 'stuckness' - the ways individuals and teams can get stuck behaviourally and environmentally - and the importance of finding meaning and purpose in our work.

In this conversation, he shares insights on how coaching can help individuals navigate career paths, especially during midlife transitions. We discuss the transformative impact of leadership development programmes, how the right person at the right time can significantly impact a person's career, and why it's so important to stay humble and keep learning in a volatile world.

He also explains how running serves as a metaphor for life, through effort and reward!

You can find out more about Gary via:

His website: https://www.pinnaclecoaching.net/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-armstrong-1002a4/ 

In this powerful episode of Beyond Potential, we unpack the real challenges of modern coaching. From the fine line between coaching and consulting to the role of radical candour in driving growth. 

We talk candidly about the discomfort of growth, the trap of people pleasing, and why communication is the cornerstone of every great coaching relationship. Whether you’re a coach, consultant or just curious about personal development, this episode offers fresh insight and practical reflection.

You can find out more about Chris via:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theauthoritativecoach/

His website https://theauthoritativecoach.com/.

You can also buy his book here.

Together, Tom and Sarah explore how self-awareness and energy management play vital roles in both personal effectiveness and team collaboration. Whether you’re an introvert navigating extroverted workspaces, or a leader looking to better support a neurodiverse team, this episode is packed with insight. Expect thoughtful conversation on how to create inclusive dynamics, the importance of ‘micro boosts’, and how to talk more openly about what drains or fuels you, without fear or fluff.

It's a great episode, we hope you enjoy it as much as we enjoyed the conversation.

Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn

Together, they explore what it means to lead post-COVID, in a climate where emotional intelligence, flexible working, and human connection are no longer ‘nice to have’ but essential for survival. Brian shares why the four-day work week might not just boost productivity, but also help attract top talent, and introduces us to the Maverick Leader—a bold, emotionally intelligent changemaker unafraid to challenge the status quo.

Expect practical takeaways and a compelling call to rethink the story you’re telling yourself as a leader.

You can connect with Brian on LinkedIn and find out more on his website.

We've both got lots to talk about, not only what we've been up to, but also what's been happening in the world.

It's an optimistic episode and we can't wait to share it with you. 

Liz shares her views on how to effectively guide businesses in creating dynamic strategic plans, the challenges leaders face in workforce planning, and the importance of fostering a positive organisational culture. Not only this, she also highlights practical advice for leaders to reflect on their own experiences and improve their impact.

She's a fantastic guest - so enjoy it.

You can find out more about Liz at her website https://www.wbsllc.com/ or find her on LinkedIn here.

In this episode the Toms talk about HEX's revolutionary framework for having all sorts of conversations that feel a bit crunchy. It might be giving feedback, asking for help, calling out poor behaviours, or more positive things like giving impactful recognition. 

Whatever you struggle with, there's something here for you.

If you want more information on the framework, and a free download, you can go to https://www.hex-development.com/oi-4c-framework/. 

Enjoy the episode.

Helen is the founder of Aviatrix, a strategic research consultancy specialising in turning insights into action. 

In our conversation, we dive into the power of insights and how it can help businesses drive their performance and leaders to nurture success and fulfilment in life and work.

You can find out more about Helen via her LinkedIn page here or go to Aviatrix's website here.

Is it something to be afraid of?

Is it something we can all be using more?

What's holding us back from really embracing AI for all our benefits?

We also give some advice from our own experiences.

Enjoy the episode.

On 11 March, it's the release of one of our host, Tom Emery's first book, People People: Reach Your Full Potential as a Chief HR Officer.

In this short bonus episode, the Toms talk about the book, where Tom E found the inspiration to become an author, and what it's all about. 

They also share a great introductory offer and a launch webinar that will take place on 6 March (not 7 March as stated in the podcast - Tom E's mistake). 

You can find more detail on how to register for this at https://www.hex-development.com/events/people-people-launch-webinar. 

We dig into this important subject: what it is, how our resilience is tested in trying circumstances, and some practical tools to build our resilience and therefore our effectiveness in life and work.

It's a great episode!

You can find out more about Amanda and her work at https://www.betalent.com/. Don't forget to check out Amanda's podcast, The Chief Psychology Officer - it's not to be missed.

For the free fact sheet Amanda mentions on boosting resilience, please get in touch with one of us. 

This week the Toms are joining by the incredible Raquel Braganza. Raquel is a life coach who not only thinks finding joy is the secret to success in so many areas of life, but also brings joy to everything she does.

We talk to Raquel about the value of joy and get some practical ways we can use it to enhance our work and wellbeing.

We hope you find as much joy in listening as we found in talking to Raquel!

Learn more about Raquel’s work here:

https://www.instagram.com/raquelbraganza_lifecoach

We delve into the topic of longevity, exploring personal experiences, mindset, and the importance of social connections. We discuss how mindset influences physical health, the significance of reflection and planning for the future, and the role of small habit changes in promoting well-being.

The conversation also highlights the importance of social connections and setting boundaries to maintain a healthy work-life balance, ultimately encouraging listeners to take action towards a longer, healthier life.

Lots to think about, and hopefully some good takeaways. Enjoy!

In this episode, we discuss our exciting plans for season 2 of Beyond Potential. We talk about upcoming episodes, which will include deeper dives into specific topics, more content from us and our work, and the introduction of new guests. It's going to be an insightful and practical season (and hopefully entertaining too).

We reflect on how Beyond Potential has grown and evolved over its first 25 episodes and celebrate many of the incredible guests we've had the opportunity to talk to.

We look at how we've grown as hosts, from feeling embarrassed and uncomfortable when recording our initial episode, to feeling confident and (a little) more capable as we end the year.

We also project forward to 2025 and talk about how we're going to evolve the podcast so that it's even more insightful, educational, and entertaining than it is today.

Thank you to our guests this year Jo Smedley, Claire Fielding, Emma Lloyd, Robin Waite, Zoe Holland MBE, Steve Salee, Andy Morris, Leanne Spencer, Dr Mahrukh Khwaja, Dr Amanda Potter, Andrew Bennie, Adele Stickland, Debra Corey, Samantha Strawford, Andre Coggins, Anwen Bottois, Aimee Bateman, and Nick Cresswell. 

Have a listen - you won't regret it!

Hopefully, you won't miss Tom M too much as we have a terrific guest, Nick Creswell, who is the Global Head of Culture and Talent at energy firm Ørsted.

Nick gives us a snapshot of his varied career before taking us up to date with his current role, which has involved leading significant change and being right on the edge of his learning. He also talks about how encouraging people with diverse backgrounds and experiences is so valuable in high performing organisations. 

It's a gem of a conversation and Nick shares some great insight and practical tips. Have a pen and paper handy to take a few notes!

You can find out more about Ørsted here. 

In 2010, after a decade working within the talent development space, Aimee started a YouTube channel in her kitchen with a £10 second-hand camera she'd bought on eBay. We talk about what inspired Aimee and how she built Careercake into an award winning e-learning company before successfully selling to the world's leading e-learning platform, SocialTalent. Aimee now supports others to be successful business owners, entrepreneurs, and leaders. Join us for a great conversation and hear some fantastic practical advice. This episode is a corker!

You can contact Aimee at www.aimeebateman.com.

Anwen tells her career story and explains the ethos behind everything she does. We talk about why supporting leaders as they move into leadership positions is invaluable in ensuring their success, and how she offers this support through her Boost programme. 

We also get into some of Anwen's incredible tales from her travels.

Enjoy the conversation! 

As Andre explains, Mafia Moves is more than just a running club. It's a community, where diverse people of all running abilities come together and build connection and confidence. Andre tells us about what inspired him to set up Mafia Moves and how he uses his leadership in service of others.

It's a great episode, and don't miss his Usain Bolt anecdote! Find out more about Andre and Mafia Moves at https://www.mafiamoves.co.uk/.

In this fascinating chat, we hear from Sam about her background working in luxury travel, and how she made the decision to take the plunge and create Pepper & Seed. Her entrepreneurial journey is a fascinating one. Hope you enjoy listening to Sam as much as we enjoyed interviewing her.

This week, Tom Mason shares his origin story and where the passion for coaching came from. We then learn all about Potentia and how they support clients through bespoke Leadership, Talent and High-Performance development programmes. 

Tune in to hear more about his passion for professional development and his plans for Potentia’s future. 

In this special two-part series, we’re getting to know the men behind the mic a little better. We kick things off with Tom Emery, founder of HEX, a people performance consultancy that helps individuals, teams, and organisations reach their full potential, through expert coaching, leadership development, and culture transformation. 

Tune in to hear about Tom's journey, his passion for leadership development, and the story behind HEX.

We have a great discussion about leadership, with a particular focus on Debra’s new book, Bad Bosses Ruin Lives and how it can help us all to lead more effectively. It’s a brilliant conversation with so much insight.

Find out more about Debra at https://www.badbossesruinlives.com/ and https://www.debcohr.com/.

Adele shares her career journey which has taken her from Advertising Executive all the way through to the TEDx stage, where she recently spoke about her passion for multigenerational workplaces. 

We learn all about the fascinating work she is doing as an Organisational Psychologist, the entrepreneurial journey she’s been on and her plans for the future. We hope you enjoy the episode. 

You can find out more about Adele at https://adelestickland.com

By day, Andrew is a Senior Investment Director at wealth management firm Brooks Macdonald, but outside work he is the co-founder of Manchester Young Professionals. 

MYP's purpose is to provide dynamic young people with the tools they need to connect and develop in their chosen industries, while also providing them with access to a multifaceted community that supports their career goals. 

Andrew is an inspiration - he has a great story and shares how he, his co-founder Richard, and the wider MYP team have built a huge community for young professionals that is doing such brilliant work in one of the UK's most vibrant and dynamic cities.

Find out more about MYP at  https://www.mcryoungprofessionals.com/.

In this fascinating conversation, the Toms grill Amanda about business psychology and the value it can bring to organisations in assessing, identifying, and developing their talent. We also get into the concept of psychological safety and why it’s so important.

You can find out more about Amanda here. You can listen to Amanda’s incredible podcast, The Chief Psychology Officer, here. https://www.betalent.com/ 

Mahrukh shares her fascinating career journey which has taken her from a qualified dentist through to a business founder and leading workplace wellness expert. She discusses the unique challenges faced by many in dentistry which inspired her to start Mind Ninja and embark on her entrepreneurial journey. 

Leanne shares her story which took her from City trader to wellbeing expert. Leanne works with a wide variety of clients as a keynote speaker, coach, and facilitator of masterclasses for leaders. She particularly values personal sustainability and community and how this can support individuals and organisations.

Find out more about Leanne here. You can also view her TEDx talk here.

She’s an inspirational guest and we hope you enjoy it.

In this episode, the Toms talk about authenticity, both in the context of their own leadership journeys, and in the clients that they work with.

The discussion goes deep into how authenticity leads to better connection, engagement and performance, and the link to psychological safety and culture.

We hope you enjoy the discussion. 

Andy tells us about his fascinating career which took him from the UK to the Middle East and back again. He discusses the differences in culture across investment banking and mutuals, and how he managed the challenge of taking on the role of CEO.

He's a great leader with some fantastic insights. We hope you enjoy the episode.

You can find out more about Cirencester Friendly Society's work at https://cirencester-friendly.co.uk/.

In this Toms Talk episode, Tom and Tom talk about the coaching industry, how they came to coaching, and what questions to ask when looking for a coach. They discuss accreditation, supervision, and the difference between coaching and mentoring.

We hope you enjoy the episode!

In this fascinating conversation, we talk to Steve about Wildfire’s approach to working with teams to meet their full potential. We hope you enjoy it!

You can find out more about Steve by going to his LinkedIn page here or visit Wildfire's website at www.wildfirestrategies.com.

They chat about their own early experiences of leadership and give some of their tips on how to make the transition into leadership smoothly and effectively.

Enjoy the conversation! 

In this conversation, Zoe shares her story, including the inspiration she took from her Dad and her bravery and tenacity in trying new and exciting things. It's a great conversation. 

You can find out more about Zoe by connecting with her on LinkedIn here.

Check out Zoe's charity, Silk Elephant, here.

Tom and Tom have a brilliant conversation with Robin about how he built his coaching business, Fearless, and how he drives his clients to success.

He's an inspirational guest - we hope you enjoy the conversation.

You can find out more about Robin at https://www.robinwaite.com/. Hear his conversation with Ali Abdaal on the Deep Dive podcast here.

Emma is an innovative and adventurous coach and learning and development professional. Emma owns Create the Ripple, which provides premium experiential services to individuals, teams and businesses who know that continuous professional improvement is a competitive advantage.

In a thought-provoking discussion, Emma takes us on the journey of her career, how she works with leaders and organisations, and leaves us with some great tips for how we can all be better at what we do.

You can find out more about Create the Ripple at www.createtheripple.co.uk and connect with Emma via LinkedIn here.

We had a great conversation, and we hope you enjoy it.

You can connect with Clare on LinkedIn here.

The book mentioned was 'The Coaching Habit' by Michael Bungay Stanier.

 We grill Jo on what she thinks makes a great, high performing, organisational culture. We also find out a bit about her and what makes her tick. It’s a great conversation.

You can find out more about Jo at www.zest-learning.com, and don't forget to check out her amazing podcast, Culture Unwrapped.

You can find out more about our companies, HEX and Potentia, at www.hex-development.com and www.potentia-leadership.com. 

In this episode, Tom and Tom talk about their aims for the podcast, and what they're seeing successful leaders focus on to be effective in their roles and lives. 

You can find out more about our companies, HEX and Potentia, at www.hex-development.com and www.potentia-leadership.com.