Life Beyond The Numbers

"There is a pilot light running in all of us, and to me that pilot light is the artist inside us." Alexander Inchbald   Alexander Inchbald and I have an in-depth conversation about creativity and the courage to listen to something larger than ourselves. Alexander equates our inner spark - our "light" - with the artist within, present in all of us, even when dimmed. We explore the roles of different types of artists, like creators, collaborators, cultivators, and choreographers and how these roles influence personal and professional lives. He shares stories of painting in blizzards, consulting with global leaders and learning to surrender control. We talk about what surrender really means? Spoiler ... it doesn't mean wave a white flag. Alexander emphasises the need for leaders to embrace change and come from a place of inner peace to make a meaningful impact. And we talk about what is playing out in the world stage and the importance of speaking truth to power.   Alexander Inchbald is a global authority on creativity and how we can use it to reinvent business in harmony with Mother Nature. He leads The #Masterpiece Agency, designing personal journeys for purposeful pioneers (and their teams) to elevate themselves to the next level by creating and communicating their Masterpiece. He has helped over 2,000 to discover their Purpose in life. Everything he does is based on his mystical experiences painting around the world in blizzards, gale force winds and tropical storms. These experiences and his research into psychology, physiology, metaphysics and epigenentics have helped him to realise we are not passive participants in a universe beyond our control, but active creators of our own playground. He is a bestselling author a few times over, has worked on all of the UN SDGs for some of the largest and most recognised companies. His paintings have been exhibited at Google and Tesla and he lives with his family above Lake Geneva.   Connect with Alexander Through his website The #Masterpiece Agency Branding Made Simple Masterclass   Resources Mentioned Vernon Frost - esoteric teacher Sir Ken Robinson (TED Talk) ‘Do schools kill creativity?'  Masterpiece: What would you do with all the time and money in the world by Alexander Inchbald  

"At this particular moment, am I in alignment with, am I in resonance with my values, with what I stand for, with what my heart beats for?" Migena Gjerazi   In this special compilation episode, I revisit conversations from Episodes 100 to 200, to bring together moments from conversations to explore how choice isn't always obvious, but it's always there. Awareness opens the door. Articulation gives it form. And action, aligned action, carries it forward. You'll hear different voices and perspectives, but the thread remains the same: we are more powerful than we realise when we give ourselves permission to see, to speak and to step. This episode is a celebration of that. Of the messy, hopeful and courageous work of being human and of choosing to continue moving towards what feels true for us.    People featured in this episode: Migena Gjerazi, Asking for Help, Episode 152 Paul Kervanis, Our Expectations, Episode 131 Rob Lawrence, Really Listening, Episode 172 Sam Allen, Reconnecting, Episode 120 Phil Dorman, What You Stand For, Episode 136 Achim Arnold, The Twin Trails, Episode 135 Carissa Bub, Hear the Silence Emerging, Episode 197 Alison Smith, A Metaphor for our Lives, Episode 178 Robyn Harris, The Answers are Inside, Episode 108 James Thirlwall, Transfixed, Episode 194

I didn't set out to reach 200 episodes—I set out to follow the joy. And in this episode, I reflect on how joy hasn't come from numbers or milestones, but from the moments in between - from the magic of sitting down and having real, honest conversations. Over the years, I've explored everything from emotional intelligence to leadership transitions, from burnout to belonging, from accounting for our emotions to creating more human workplaces. And at the heart of it all has been conversation - curious, meaningful conversation. To mark this milestone, I took myself (and the title of the episode) on a walk through London. I stopped to notice what caught my eye, and three unexpected moments - a sculpture, a street sign, and a sticker - each reminded me in their own way of the joy, the depth and the permission that conversation can hold. This episode isn't just a celebration of a number - it's a pause, a breath and an invitation. To slow down. To notice. To listen. Because in a world that rushes, true conversation remains one of our most powerful tools for connection and change and continues to have the power to move us.   Susan Ní Chríodáin is the host of Life Beyond the Numbers and founder of Beyond the Numbers, a leadership consultancy rooted in human connection and meaningful change. She's the author of Leading Beyond the Numbers—an Amazon bestseller and finalist in the 2025 UK Business Book Awards (Leadership category). A former finance director turned leadership guide, Susan brings bold questions, honest conversations and an emotionally intelligent lens to how we live and lead. Through engaging interviews and thoughtful reflection, the podcast explores what really matters at work - beyond the numbers- so we can thrive as whole human beings.  Resources Mentioned: This episode includes clips from  Episode 109, Collective Joy, Pete Bearder Episode 116, Challenges, Diego Adame Episode 122, What Matters Most, Solo Episode 132, Inner Development Goals, Katharina Moser Episode 133, At Our Best, Solo Episode 135, I Feel Like Me Again, Jo Hunter Episode 145, Facilitate People, John Fairhurst Episode 176, Trust, Kevin Chevis Episode 187, Willing to Take Risks, Liz Jarman Episode 190, Just a Couple of Centimeters of Care, Marc Haine I also make reference to episode 197, Hear the Silence Emerging, Carissa Bub "I Did it My Way" Frank Sinatra David Whyte    

"Playfulness is our natural state of well-being. We are playful when we are well." Chris Marshall   Chris Marshall and I explore why playfulness isn't frivolous or childish but fundamental to how we thrive at work and in life. We discuss how playfulness helps us embrace complexity, navigate uncertainty and show up as our whole, human selves. Chris shares his multi-faceted career journey and how bringing all parts of himself into his work is an act of rebellion against boxes and niches. Together, we unpack how playfulness, far from being a distraction, is a powerful driver of well-being, creativity and leadership.   Chris Marshall is an entrepreneur and neurodivergent polymath, founder of The Playfulness Institute and Beyond Here, aiming to change the world through research and insights into playfulness and human thriving. Author, researcher, behavioural scientist, psychologist, psychotherapist, investment manager, podcaster, speaker, financial planner, and master distiller. Chris has been told by multiple PR and branding gurus that he should refine his message and concentrate on just one aspect, lest he risk losing his time-starved audience. Yet he's ignored that advice and gone with what feels right. After all, he's the first to admit he's happiest spinning multiple plates. For Chris, it's not just the joy of learning and discovery; it's the integration and synergies that can be found between disparate fields of understanding. The golden thread that runs through his life is the aim to change the world by promoting human thriving – and the vital role that playfulness holds.   Connect with Chris On LinkedIn The Playfulness Institute website Being Playful Podcast    Resources Mentioned The Playful Advantage and Decoding Change by Chris Marshall World Happiness Day – March 20th David Whyte – poet and philosopher Leading Beyond the Numbers by Susan Ní Chríodáin Emotions at Work - Being Playful Podcast (Chris & Susan)   

"... you take people outdoors. They get into a resourceful state, you're able to explore more. You can use nature. I call it wayfinding, just like you use a compass and things like that. You can use the path you're on as a metaphor. And because you're outdoors, you can stay inquisitive longer." Murph    Murph and I explore the incredible benefits of movement, nature and human connection in leadership and decision-making. We discuss how walking and movement help unlock creativity, enhance decision-making and act as a natural "reset" for the brain​. Being outdoors helps people escape fixed thinking patterns and fosters deeper, more meaningful conversations​ during their shared experience. Murph also shares insights into the power of flow states and why human intelligence remains our greatest asset in a world increasingly dominated by artificial intelligence.    Murph is a philosophical adventurer and seasoned coach with a mission to regenerate our approach to community, learning, and personal growth through nature and adventure. With deep roots in outdoor pursuits and wilderness survival, Martin designs and leads bespoke adventure-based learning experiences that enhance wellbeing, resilience, and team performance. Drawing inspiration from philosophers like Aristotle, Martin offers Wild Coaching and Wisdom Walks, integrating ancient wisdom with modern strategies for personal and professional development. These immersive "walkshops" guide leaders and teams into the wild to unlock creativity, strengthen bonds, and foster a regenerative mindset. With a background in military training, environmental science, and outdoor leadership, Martin's life has been shaped by a deep connection to the outdoors. From early Himalayan explorations to jungle survival training, Martin now channels this wealth of experience into empowering others to harness the transformative power of adventure for mental health and wellbeing.   Connect with Murph: Through LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/martinmurphy-coach/    Through his website https://martinmurphy.coach/ And on Instagram https://www.instagram.com/stoicPILGRIMCOACH/   Resources Mentioned: Episode 42, Metamorphosis, with John Shinnick McKinsey Study on Flow States – Research showing executives in flow states are five times more effective​. Ian McGilchrist – Referenced for his work on the asymmetry of the brain Wayfinding by Michael Bond – Discussed in relation to how over-reliance on GPS is diminishing our natural navigational abilities and intelligence. The book explores the psychology of being lost and how it parallels problem-solving in the workplace​. Forest Bathing (Shinrin-Yoku, Japan) – Mentioned in relation to how walking in nature, particularly around trees, increases oxygen intake and contributes to mental well-being​ Stoicism – Murph discusses Stoicism as a philosophy that influenced his approach to resilience, mindset, and coaching. His Instagram handle, Stoic Pilgrim, reflects this blend of Stoic thought and the continuous journey of learning and self-improvement​.

"You can hear the silence emerging in the room. You can hear the sound of silence. There's a peace that comes with, a harmony that comes from it. It offers an opportunity for more sharing, more cooperation, less competition. So it's very generative." Carissa Bub   Carissa Bub and I explore the transformative power of silence in leadership and life. We dive into the paradox of silence - how it can feel awkward or even frightening, yet hold the potential for profound connection and insight. We discuss how cultivating stillness can unlock deeper awareness, relational intelligence, and a new level of courageous leadership. By tapping into stillness, leaders can listen more deeply, respond with empathy, and foster psychological safety within teams. Carissa shares her journey of embracing silence as a resource, not just as a practice but as a way of being that enhances presence, influence and authentic leadership. We also discuss the role of reflective practices, playfulness, and trusting in life's unfolding mystery.   Carissa Bub is a Leadership and Systems Coach on a mission to re-humanise organisations. With one foot firmly in the business world and the other gently planted in the earth, she enables leaders and teams to navigate complex change with dignity and agency. For 25 years, she's partnered with C-suite leaders to build stronger connections - from the boardroom to the marketplace - bringing strength and heart to strategic dialogue. As a seasoned facilitator now trained in nature-based practices, she invites her clients to take off their shoes, both physically and metaphorically, deepening their trust in life and empowering them to use their gifts for the benefit of all life. What sets Carissa apart is her unique blend of systemic coaching expertise and her background as a BBC journalist turned media trainer. She creates spaces where authentic communication catalyses real change, helping leaders develop both their inner presence and outer voice to shape lasting impact. As faculty at CRRGlobal and Six Team Conditions, she helps coaches and consultants develop their practice in systemic transformation. A TEDx speaker, Carissa challenges organisations to think differently about leadership and change, cultivating environments where people and performance naturally thrive.   Connect with Carissa: Through her website: www.carissabub.com On LinkedIn    Resources Mentioned: Conclave – an example of silence and uncertainty in leadership moments. Atomic Habits by James Clear  The Sound of Silence by Simon & Garfunkel  Marcel Marceau – influenced Carissa's fascination with silence Brother David Steindl-Rast – for his work on gratefulness and trust in life. Eckhart Tolle – someone who embodies playfulness and presence. Brahma Kumaris (BKs) – their practice of “Just a Minute” silence. London Writers' Salon – silent writing sessions. Center for Awakening – Monday silence gatherings. On Being with Krista Tippett – Yo-Yo Ma's discussion on the space between musical notes. Unlimited Futures - Episode 193 Life Beyond the Numbers 

"When I realised how much joy there was to be had in life, full stop, in your job and in people paying you to do something you actually enjoy, blew my mind. After 20 years of office work, I was like, wait, wait, I get to have fun and they pay me. I was really surprised by that." Ana Clements   Ana Clements and I explore the journey of rediscovering passion, pursuing creativity and embracing reinvention at any stage of life. She shares how reaching midlife made her reflect on what she truly wanted - bringing her back to music, voice work and ultimately, audiobook narration. Ana also shares the impact of late diagnosis of ADHD on her life and discusses the significance of self-compassion, continuous learning, and the art of performing while staying true to oneself. Whether you're considering a career shift or simply need encouragement to take that next step, Ana's story will leave you inspired to trust your own path and embrace what makes you come alive.   Award-nominated Ana Clements is a passionate speaker, coach, and professional voice artist. With over a decade in the industry, she has narrated audiobooks for major publishers, bringing a wealth of character voices to her performances in both British and Spanish. As the founder of Audiobooks on Clubhouse, Ana has built a thriving community where narrators and creatives connect and share insights. Since 2021, she has hosted weekly sessions, deepening her understanding of the challenges and lived experiences of a creative career. Ana has spoken at industry-leading events, including VO Atlanta, MexicoAudio, MAVO, One Voice Conference, and at many writers groups and workshops. A qualified coach since 2022, she works with narrators and authors, offering practical, insightful guidance that empowers them to push past self-limitations with actionable direction. Her creative coaching has been described as “helping others reach a point of clarity on who they are as creative professionals.”   Connect with Ana: All of Ana's social media (LinkedIn, Instagram, FaceBook, Threads, etc.) are @AnaClements and her website is https://www.anaclements.co.uk    Resources Mentioned: MOOC - Massive Open Online Courses https://www.mooc.org/ Personality Isn't Permanent by Benjamin Hardy  The Art of Possibility by Rosamund Stone Zander & Benjamin Zander 

"...because we're all imperfect if we have any kind of power, including even just like having a strong personality, that we can be doing things that we don't even realise are intimidating or shutting down other people."​ David Lee   In this episode, I am joined by Dr. Susanne Evans and David Lee for one of our irregular but always insightful conversations. Today, we dive into the topic of bad behaviour in our workplaces — what it looks like, why it happens and what we can do about it. We include some real-life stories shared with us by others. We touch on the corrosive effects of power and the importance of bringing attention to unacceptable conduct when we see it. We ask the question: what if we are the ones that happen to be behaving questionably .... we are all imperfect after all. We cover the importance of self-awareness and self-reflection.    Dr Susanne Evans is an organisation change consultant, trainer, coach and researcher on a mission to change the way that transformations are managed in organisations. She founded Feldspar Consulting in 2007 to help her clients lead change in a more human, effective way. As well as writing and speaking about organisation change, Susanne hosts open storytelling workshops, supporting organisations and individuals in writing a compelling story for themselves, and she is the host of the popular ChangeStories podcast.   David Lee is a coach, consultant, workshop facilitator, keynote speaker, and author, who loves creating a win/win/win relationship between people and the organizations they work for. He helps leaders and leadership teams learn how to become "people whisperers", and by doing so, increase their ability to make their organization THE choice for "A List Talent" and inspire the best in their people.   Resources Mentioned The No Asshole Rule – Robert Sutton Think Again – Adam Grant Don't Bite the Hook – Pema Chödrön The Jerk's Guide to Happiness - Alyn Mitlyng   Leading Beyond the Numbers - Susan Ni Chriodain Episode 64 Being Yourself with Eamon Fitzgerald Episode 69 What Works for You with Alyn Mitlyng

"I was completely transfixed by the idea of these very tiny teapots and these tiny tea cups that were serving small amounts of tea." James Thirlwall   James Thirlwall and I explore the connection between tea and creating connection. I venture out of my usual space to record in a delightful and intimate setting: a tiny teahouse in East Oxford. We delve into the world of Japanese tea ceremonies as well as discover how Chinese tea ceremonies cultivate mindfulness and bring people together in a shared, intentional experience. James, who jokingly describes himself as 'a big man in a tiny teahouse', takes us through his journey from living in Japan, his interest in Buddhism and practicing Chinese medicine to opening his tiny teahouse. He shares insights about creating a space that encourages connection and reflection, the role of sensory experiences in evoking memories and emotions and how tea can foster better workplace dynamics. James Thirlwall is a tea lover, former acupuncturist, UKTA certified tea sommelier and educator who uses tea to bring people together. tinyteahouse events are designed to promote fellowship, harmony and inclusion - the values of a traditional Asian tea house culture. James has been working in hospitality for the last 5+ years and works with Michelin star chefs, 5-star hotels and some of the best hotels in Europe.   Connect with James Through his tinyteahouse website and on instagram   Resources Mentioned https://www.oxfordmail.co.uk/news/24262686.oxford-borough-among-coolest-neighbourhoods-uk/ Leading Beyond the Numbers by Susan Ní Chríodáin

"Any given moment contains unlimited futures that can become real. The reality that occurs is the one you pay attention to."  [Quoting] Penney Peirce In this inaugural episode of 2025 I reflect on three recent inspirations — a movie and two exhibitions — that explore themes of creativity, certainty and choice. Drawing connections between the iterative nature of creativity, life's constant rewrites and the courage to start anew, I share insights into how we can embrace change and discover new possibilities and unlimited futures in the year ahead.  Life mirrors creative endeavours like writing, with continuous cycles of editing and rewriting. From ancient oracles to modern self-reflection, humans have always sought direction and clarity. It's okay to start over, pivot or revise one's path — every step adds to your story. This episode might be a catalyst or companion for anyone seeking inspiration to rethink their direction, rewrite their plans and rediscover joy in the process of becoming. Resources Mentioned: Constellations by David Whyte (Essay on Maturity) Vibration by Penny Peirce  Wanderful by David Pearl Change Stories by Dr. Suzanne Evans (Angus Fletcher on Storytelling) “Write. Cut. Rewrite.” at the Bodleian Library “Omens, Oracles, and Answers” at the Bodleian Library Rumi Oracle Cards by Alana Fairchild

In this year-end episode of 'Life Beyond the Numbers,' I explore the theme of going beyond the status quo. The episode features a compilation of interviews and stories from previous episodes focused on creating a more fulfilling work life by emphasising the human side of our work-lives. I share a selection of snippets with insights on topics such as the importance of avoiding short-termism, the value of shifting perspective, the impact of intentionality and care in interactions, fostering high-performing teams, and the crucial link between psychological safety and innovation. Approximate timings: 05:00 Kevin Chevis on Beyond the Short-Term 14:00 Alison Smith on Shifting Perspectives 21:00 Marc Haine on Intentional Interactions 26:00 Liz Jarman on Building High-Performing Teams 33:00 Helen Joy on Psychological Safety & Innovation Previous Episodes: #176 Trust with Kevin Chevis #178 A Metaphor for our Lives with Alison Smith #190 A Couple of Centimetres of Care with Marc Haine #187 Willing to Take Risks with Liz Jarman #170 Leaping Forwards with Helen Joy

"The actions that we take are the things that are going to get us results, whether we like it or not. And so looking at those results, which business leaders are looking at all the time. We're always looking at those results. Are we meeting our outcomes? Are we meeting our metrics? And if we're not getting those results, well, we're not taking the right actions." Katie McLaughlin   Katie McLaughlin returns to Life Beyond the Numbers to chat to me about the team dynamics and how our emotions and actions driver our results. We cover the role emotions play in shaping team performance and the link between emotional awareness and intentional action in the workplace. Katie speaks of her unique use of theatre techniques to help teams explore and transform workplace dynamics. We chat about the importance of having fun and creating moments of levity to improve team culture and how leaders can foster psychological safety and trust within their teams. A key takeaway from this episode is the common misconception we might have that if our actions got results there's this assumption that those actions are correct ... however, there's a lot of different actions that could be taken to get the same results.   Katie McLaughlin is an engaging speaker, workshop facilitator, and strategy consultant with over 15 years of experience in high-growth companies such as Wayfair, Upserve, and Rocket Lawyer. In 2020, Katie founded McLaughlin Method, a boutique consulting firm specializing in improving team and company culture through actionable, interactive, skill-building programs. She facilitates team workshops as the core focus of her practice, customizing sessions to fit specific industries, team dynamics, and outcomes. Leveraging her background in theater, Katie creates a fun, judgment-free environment where teams can improve collaboration and achieve goals through empathy, open communication, and conflict resolution. She has facilitated thousands of workshops, helping teams build collaborative cultures and achieve immediate improvements in empathy and connectivity.   Connect with Katie: Her website: www.mclaughlinmethod.com  On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mclaughlinkatie/   Resources Mentioned: Free Team Health Score Quiz www.teamhealthscorequiz.com  Episode 104 Your Intention https://www.beyond-thenumbers.com/podcast-episodes/104   

"For everything that we do, if you cared this much - just a couple of centimetres of care - it would make all the difference in the world". Marc Haine   Marc Haine and I discuss how small, intentional acts of care can transform the ordinary into the extraordinary. From building trust to creating a culture of excellence, this episode is packed with insights on why daring to care just a little bit more matters so much. From his journey in hospitality to leading teams in high-pressure environments, Marc illustrates how intentionality and connection can bridge the gap between mediocrity and excellence. He challenges us all to approach every experience — whether a banquet or a brief conversation — with the same care and dedication. Marc shares a story of Orlando Airport staff handing out free ice cream during a heatwave — an example of how thoughtful gestures, even as small as a scoop of ice cream, can leave a lasting impression. If you've ever wondered how small changes can lead to big impacts, this episode will inspire you to approach interactions with more intentionality and care, no matter the context.   Marc Haine is a customer experience expert, keynote speaker, consultant, and author of Lights! Camera! Action! With 35 years of experience in hospitality, retail, and other customer-facing industries, Marc has created unique frameworks to help organizations build lasting connections to become THE brand of choice. Marc's energetic, humorous, and authentic delivery makes him relatable and fun. He empowers business operators with unique tools to create jaw-dropping, show-stopping experiences their customers and employees deserve. Marc's podcasts, Marc Haine Live and Experience Leadership: The Small Business Podcast, have over 150,000 views world-wide. Marc is the 2023 Community Spirit Award recipient in his local community. He is the co-founder and president of several non-profit organizations, such as: Walk the Talks, East of 60 Productions Society, and sits on the national board of the Canadian Association of Professional Speakers (CAPS). During his free time (if he has any), you can find Marc tossing a mean pizza, or showing off his mad sourdough skills. If you are lucky, you might even see him on a comedy stage near you. Marc lives in the quaint town of Devon, Alberta with his beautiful wife and his menagerie of pets.   Connect with Marc: https://meetwith.marchaine.com Marc@MarcHaine.com Http://MarcHaine.com FB: / masterofexperiences IN: https:// www.instagram.com/MarcJLHaine TW: / marchaine2   Resources Mentioned: Lights! Camera! Action! Business Operational Excellence Through the Lens of Live Theatre by Marc Haine Leading Beyond the Numbers by Susan Ni Chriodain

"We can do so much better for ourselves in terms of the way in which we live and the degree of fulfilment and meaning that we derive from life." Kate Jones   Kate Jones shares her unique approach to fostering personal and organisational fulfilment. We explore her Wheel of New Horizons, a framework for helping successful yet unfulfilled individuals reconnect with their heart's desires and navigate life changes with purpose. Kate also unveils her Work Thrivometer, a tool that pinpoints 10 ingredients for thriving in the workplace. From redefining success to balancing sensitivity with strength, Kate offers a fresh perspective on achieving a deeply fulfilling life. Her story of a transformative trek in the Himalayas brings these insights to life, highlighting the interplay of leadership, followership, and inner purpose.   Kate Jones is a certified leadership and life coach, consultant and facilitator that specialises in helping purpose-led leaders create more Deeply Human® organisations where more people can thrive and do their best work without burning out. She is on a mission to change the world of work, and to help as many people as possible to live, lead and work well. She founded Neon in 2013 after ten years in corporate consulting and a further ten in social care. She is the architect of the Deeply Human® leadership model and leads The Deeply Human Culture Club, a community of like-minded leaders who want more organisations to be a force for good on the inside and out.   Connect with Kate:  Through her website Deeply Neon On LinkedIn   Kate's Linktree   Resources Mentioned: The Wheel of New Horizons & The Neon Work Thriveometer  Simon Sinek Brene Brown The Olympics  

"If they're not applying creative and intuitive thinking in addition to critical and judgmental thinking, then they're not creating new knowledge for the organisation. They're just taking old knowledge and rearranging it. And for me, that's not adding value." Jackie Eaton   Jackie Eaton shares her unique career path from obtaining a mathematics degree to working in operational research for NATO. She discusses her affection for solving complex problems, her initial struggles to discover a career-fit and the compelling nature of public service. Jackie and I chat about gender dynamics in the workplace, the challenges and rewards of working in a male-dominated, multicultural environment, the importance of effective communication, the role of psychology in leadership and the impact of AI on analytical work. Jackie shares insights on maintaining optimism and tips for those aspiring to work in organisations like NATO.    Jackie Eaton works at NATO. She is a specialist in analysis of public sector issues including defence and health sectors or anything else messy and complex with excellent communication and interpersonal skills. She describes herself as an eternal optimist, smart problem solver, data geek and psychology nerd. She is also a mentor, trainer and ray of sunshine in the office.   Connect with Jackie On LinkedIn   Resources Mentioned NATO Leading Beyond the Numbers by Susan Ní Chríodáin   

"...they were willing to take risks for the experience .... and I think I've really taken that on." Liz Jarman   Liz Jarman and I discuss her planned departure as CEO of Living Goods at the end of 2024. She shares her fascinating approach to succession planning, leadership transitions and a non-linear career path. We chat through some of her achievements, including fostering a strong organisational culture, scaling operations sustainably and spearheading a digital transformation in community health. Liz reflects on the influence of her upbringing on her leadership style, her emphasis on a high-performing team and giving people recognition - all offering invaluable lessons on leadership and managing change.    Liz Jarman was named CEO of Living Goods in 2018 and is a member of the Living Goods Board of Directors. Liz has 25 years of experience from various sectors, Liz joined Living Goods in 2014 as Director of Product Strategy and was promoted to Kenya Country Director in 2015 and at the end of 2017, she was promoted to Chief Strategy Officer. Born in Zambia, Liz spent a large portion of her career at Sainsbury's, a $30 billion UK grocery business where she rose to lead Sainsbury's Product Development and Fairtrade strategy and worked with thousands of global suppliers with a particular focus on African sustainable supply chains.    Connect with Liz On LinkedIn   Resources Mentioned Living Goods Squiggly Careers Podcast

"Don't be funny, be human -  you don't have to force it. Have a sense of humour. Have the ability to look at situations and see the humour that you do when you're outside of work. How often do you go home from work and you're sitting at the dinner table saying to your partner, or your family, you just wouldn't even believe what happened today..." Beth Sherman   Beth Sherman and I place a lens on the transformative power of humour in our work-lives. Beth shares insights from her career as a comedy writer and stand-up comedian, illustrating how humour can be a powerful tool for leaders to build trust, reduce tension and foster team dynamics. We touch on practical applications such as using humour to make interactions more human, make connections in diverse environments and improve workplace resilience. She emphasises the importance of self-awareness and authenticity in using humour effectively. Beth believes humour is a love-language, it can be used like a seasoning and that there is a lot of truth in humour.    Beth Sherman is a speaker, comedian, and seven-time Emmy Award-winning Hollywood comedy writer who's written for the biggest shows in American television, including Late Show with David Letterman, The Tonight Show With Jay Leno, Ellen, and the Academy Awards. As a speaker, she helps individuals and organizations harness the power of humor to create meaningful connection and genuine engagement with clients, colleagues and audiences.   Connect with Beth LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/beth-sherman/ Website: https://www.bethsherman.com/    Resources Mentioned: Professional Speakers Association Victor Borge

"This is about what you are experiencing. And I think the beauty of your experience is it's your experience and no one can argue with that."   David Lee and I delve into the significance of emotional self-regulation and co-regulation, highlighting the impact they have on psychological safety and productive workplace environments. We discuss concepts from my book 'Leading Beyond the Numbers' including the importance of emotional granularity and how subtle changes in language can shape one's perception and interactions. We also cover the value of reflection and curiosity, and the cultural impact of emotions in an organisation. Through relatable examples and research, our discussion offers practical techniques for managing emotions and enhancing workplace culture.    David Lee is a coach, consultant, workshop facilitator, keynote speaker, and author of Dealing with a Difficult Co-Worker, who loves creating a win/win/win relationship between people and the organizations they work for. He helps leaders and leadership teams learn how to become "people whisperers", and by doing so, increase their ability to make their organization THE choice for "A List Talent" and inspire the best in their people.    Connect with David On LinkedIn Through his website, SoulSatisfyingWork   Resources Mentioned How to Up Your People Game at Work: LinkedIn Live Series (Forthcoming onOct 7th, 14th, 21st & 28th 5pm UK/12pm EST) Leading Beyond the Numbers, Susan Ní Chríodáin The Book of Human Emotions, Tiffany Watt Smith The Emotional Dictionary, Susie Dent Lisa Feldman Barrett, How Emotions are Mad Daniel Goleman Steven Porges and Polyvagal Theory Don't Bite the Hook, Pema Chodron Ted Lasso on Apple TV Emotional Agility, Susan David

I am thoroughly enjoying reading "Wayfinding: The Art and Science of How We Find and Lose Our Way" by Michael Bond and have drawn from it to put together this episode. The parallels between how we do this out there in the wild and within the daily confines or our work-life struck me.  I've used excerpts from this book, in particular the psychology of being lost, for this episode and added some of my own thoughts, stories and poems.  Please note that I will be taking a break for the month of August. Until September .... happy wandering!   Resources Mentioned Wayfinding: The Art and Science of How We Find and Lose Our Way by Michael Bond  

"There's schools of thought around us; the quantum nature of humanity in terms of us being energy and vibrations. And whether you think of it as woo-woo, pseudoscience or whatever, I'm not concerned about that as much as understanding that when we got on this call, our energy levels were higher than usual and matching each other. And I think that is something that as people we really need to tap into. Being able to empathetically match our energy and also have the ability to shift it up or down as we see fit and that serves the environment that we're in." Steve Wright   Steve Wright and I have a dynamic discussion on his career journey from IT to coaching, and the intersection of human and information technology. We delve into how upbringing influenced Steve's interest in people and the importance of human interaction in technology. We explore leadership, the psychology-physiology connection, life's valleys and peaks and the significance of personal responsibility. We discuss the significance of energy in interactions, both personally and professionally. Steve also shares insights into his coaching practice, particularly around being a thinking partners to help managers become effective leaders.    Steve Wright's career path took him into Information Technology (IT) but the lessons of Human Technology remained, and have been a thread throughout his life. He experienced the transformation that can be achieved with a change in our physiology and psychology. Steve with over 25 years of experience is now a seasoned IT manager turned business and life coach based in Lancaster, UK. He empowers managers to become inspiring leaders through his company, SAWright Coaching.   Connect with Steve On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sawright/  Through his website: https://sawrightcoaching.com   Resources Mentioned: The 1 to One Thing Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-1-to-one-thing/id1696216009 Episode 45 of The 1 to One Thing Podcast, Leading Beyond the Numbers with Susan Ní Chríodáin: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/ep-45-leading-beyond-the-numbers-susan-ni-chriodian/id1696216009?i=1000657301125  Tony Robbins https://www.tonyrobbins.com/   

"It's doing it on purpose, and knowing you can do it on purpose; that's what's really important when it comes to negotiations." Phil Brown   Phil Brown and I delve into the nuances of negotiation. Phil emphasises the significance of human interaction, confidence-building, and specific skills such as active listening, questioning, and observation. He shares insights on purposeful negotiations versus everyday interactions, the importance of practical experience in building negotiation skills, and various tactics, including the power of odd numbers and summarising during discussions. He also introduces the concept of the Negotiation Club, an innovative platform where individuals can practice and enhance their negotiation skills in a supportive environment, leveraging simple negotiation cards for realistic and engaging practice sessions. The episode is filled with practical advice, personal anecdotes, and a deep dive into the art of negotiation, making it a must-listen for anyone who would like to know more about the power of negotiation and practice.     Phil Brown is a Negotiation Trainer and Inventor of Negotiation Cards which is The ONLY resource helping businesses practice their negotiation skills, grow revenue, boost profits & build confidence. With over 30 years professional procurement experience he is using this to create an incredible new following of those who want to improve their negotiation skills through a unique approach to negotiation practice. He works across industries as well as educational sectors to deliver a unique coaching and workshop approach based on a philosophy of “Practical Practice”.   Connect with Phil On LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/the-negotiation-club/?jobid=1234 Through his website: https://www.thenegotiationclubs.com/    Resources Mentioned Toastmasters International The Association of Speakers Clubs (ASC)

"So even in that dynamic of a relationship, how can I have a growth mindset and see my mother or father in the way they are now? How can I have conversations that may have triggered me in the past? But now I know I'm an adult, not that child reacting, to build my parent in the future. It's the same with organizations. It's the human dynamics." Tasneem Virani   Tasneem Virani and I speak about the critical need for maintaining human connection in an increasingly AI-dominated world advocating for a balanced integration of technology and human qualities in leadership. We discuss the integral role of emotional intelligence, the neuroscience behind human behaviours, and the importance of reflective and conversational intelligence in leadership. We talk about Tasneem's book 'Human Touch Leadership' and the value of nurturing human potential, fostering creativity, and the transformative power of positive human interactions in enhancing organisational performance.    Tasneem Virani is a dedicated proponent of a more human-centred approach to the workplace. She published Human Touch Leadership and developed a programme: "The Human Touch Leadership Accelerator Programme." Through this, Tasneem collaborates with companies to introduce the principles of "human touch leadership," striving to create meaningful changes in people, performance, and profits. Tasneem's focus is on partnering with senior leaders and professionals, aiding them in discovering clarity and purpose. Her skill set encompasses Leadership Development, Change Management, Organizational Coaching, Facilitation, Mediation, and Career Management.   Connect with Tasneem Through her website: https://clariscoaching.com/home   Resources Mentioned Human Touch Leadership by Tasneem Virani Conversational Intelligence by Judith E. Glaser Leading Beyond the Numbers by Susan Ni Chriodain   Episode #181

The podcast reached a milestone of 10,000 downloads during the month of June.  It has been listened to in 80+ countries and of those 10 what are the top 10 by downloads?  And do those top 10 have a central theme to them?   I was delighted to find that yes, of course they did.  Many of the guests that I speak to talk about aspects of their work-life journeys and graciously share with us how they navigated pivotal turning points,  how they discovered their true self and ultimately how they expanded their work-life horizons.  In this episode you will hear snippets from: Episode 1 Sue Rosen - Stepping into the Unknown Episode 18 John Purkiss - Letting Go Episode 68 Anna Haslock - Extreme Experiences Episode 31 Robin Kiziak - Showing Your Personality Episode 64: Eamon FitzGerald - Being Yourself Episode 26 John Collins - Guinness & Tea Episode 32 Kevin Ashley - Serial Entrepreneur Episode 92 Dougal Freeman - A Common Goal Episode 27 Sheila Walsh - Healthy High Performance Episode 132 Katharina Moser Inner Development Goals

In this episode I explore the concept of compassion and self-compassion. I unpack what compassion is and why it's crucial in our lives, the incredible benefits of self-compassion for both mental and physical health and cover some ways you can begin to cultivate compassion for yourself and others. Special insights from the work of Kristin Neff and David Whyte as well as some books enrich the examination of compassion, shedding light on how self-awareness and compassion go hand-in-hand.   Resources: Mindful Compassion by Choden and Paul Gilbert David Whyte on On Being with Krista Tippet and 3 Sundays in March The Book of Human Emotions by Tiffany Watt Dr Kristin Neff https://self-compassion.org Leading Beyond the Numbers by Susan Ní Chríodáin  

"I then realised that if gardening can be a metaphor for supplier management, nature's landscapes could be a metaphor for our lives." Alison Smith   Alison Smith and I discuss her unique approach as a facilitator, coach, and author, of using nature and its landscapes as powerful metaphors to bridge understanding in business and life. Over a 24-year journey, Alison has developed various techniques, including drawing, walking, and storytelling metaphors, to help individuals gain insights while leaving their logical minds aside. Alison also highlights the significance of language, mindset, and creativity, and shares how her journey from 'sleepwalking' through life to embracing her creativity has unfolded. We also explore the importance of allowing space for internal wisdom and the benefits of stepping outside the traditional confines of a work environment.   Alison Smith wears a number of hats - facilitator, coach, trainer, author, podcaster, and poet. She helps people, inside and outside of organisations, see situations from a different perspective to see the wood for the trees and get back on track. She has over 35 years of applying these in a procurement environment but they're no longer exclusively applied there. Her work with others is done in nature, parks, museums, offices and virtually. She mainly works in Scotland and the rest of the UK but has also ventured further afield.  Connect with Alison Through her website On LinkedIn   Resources Mentioned Landscaping Your Life Podcast Can't See the Wood for the Trees by Alison Smith  Start Close In by David Whyte

"There's four key components that I focus on in my work and my programs. The environment [ ]. There's behaviour. You would be shocked if I told you that almost every single thing that we do from the moment we wake up until the moment we go to bed, is an amalgamation of the quality later that night of how we sleep." Dan White   Dan White and I discuss the critical role of sleep in our daily lives. He outlines four key components - environment, behaviour, psychology, and culture - that influence sleep. We delve into Dan's personal experiences with sleep, why quality trumps quantity, and how our modern lifestyles impact our sleep and circadian rhythms. Dan shares valuable insights into the interplay between sleep, health and well-being, and performance at work. We also touch on Dan's initiatives with Sleep Better, Live Better Foundation which focuses on educating younger generations about the benefits of proper sleep habits. Throughout, Dan stresses the value of simple solutions, like spending time outdoors and integrating natural light into daily routines, to improve sleep and health.   Daniel White is a Registered Nutritionist (MSc, ANutr) and Functional Medicine Certified Health Coach (FMCHC) with extensive educational, research and clinical experience in the fields of nutrition, psychology, stress management, sleep science, health education and human behaviour change. Daniel educates people on how to radically transform their lives whilst spreading his passion for a natural and holistic evidence-based approach to health and well-being.    Connect with Daniel Through social media: LinkedIn and Instagram Visit his website Check out Sleep Better Live Better Foundation   Resources Mentioned Why We Sleep, Matthew Walker The Biology of Sleep & Your Unique Sleep Needs | Huberman Lab Guest Series with Dr. Matt Walker

"The one thing ..... there's so many. I would probably say, as a reaction to your question, trust yourself and other people." Kevin Chevis   Kevin Chevis shares valuable insights from his extensive career in a variety of leadership roles, highlighting his diverse experiences, including with mergers, acquisitions, and navigating financial challenges. He discusses the significant shift he experienced from merely selling products, like speed cameras, to engaging in initiatives that make the world safer. Kevin emphasises the importance of developing intimate, trusting relationships with clients and suppliers, focusing on long-term goals, and fostering open communication. He discusses the impact of a strong internal company culture that values empathy, trust, and effective communication and fosters environments where people are motivated to contribute and succeed. Kevin recounts the challenges and successes of working in international and diverse environments, including navigating cultural differences in multinational teams. Throughout the episode, Kevin reflects on his career milestones, the impact of mentorship, and his belief in trusting and supporting employees for better business outcomes.   Kevin Chevis has extensive international experience running technology-based companies. He has been involved in several MBO/MBI deals involving Private Equity, all with successful exits. He is an innovative thinker, with excellent communication skills, P&L experience and a proven ability to lead and drive strategic development, cultural change, sales and client service on a global basis.   Connect with Kevin: Reach out to him on LinkedIn    Resources Mentioned: Leading Beyond the Numbers by Susan Ni Chriodain  Helen Joy at People Spark

"Susan, I've taken enough time with these questions. Firstly, I just want to say, I'm thankful that I've met you. And two, this is an absolutely brilliant book and I love it." Matt Phelan In this episode I celebrate the launch of my new book Leading Beyond the Numbers: How accounting for emotions tips the balance at work. The book was launched during a LinkedIn Live on Monday May 13th with the help of Matt Phelan, who wrote the foreword to the book, and Dr. Susanne Evans. The book has already achieved bestseller status in three Amazon categories in the UK. We explore the key themes, some takeaways and personal reflections including the creative process, navigating self doubt and what I hope the legacy of the book will be. Please do purchase, read and review the book to help spread its impactful message.   Matt Phelan is a dad, founder, business adviser & keynote speaker as well as being a proud geek (his words!) and supporter of decent people. He believes that the future of tech is human and co-founded The Happiness Index to try and positively shape the future of work in a small but important way. Matt has written two books ‘Freedom to be Human: The business case for happiness' and most recently ‘The Happiness Index: Why today's emotions equal tomorrow's business success.' He also hosts the insightful ‘Happiness and Humans' podcast.   Dr Susanne Evans creates change, one story at a time. She is on a mission to change the way transformations are managed in organisations. She founded Feldspar Consulting in 2007 to help her clients lead change in a more human, effective way through her work as an organisation change consultant, trainer, coach and researcher. Susanne is a storyteller and is writing ‘ChangeStories: How to have powerful conversations, tell inspiring stories and build engagement for transformation' which is due to be published in November and is the host of the engaging ChangeStories podcast.   Resources Mentioned  Follow this link to purchase Leading Beyond the Numbers: How accounting for emotions tips the balance at work If you would like to read a preview of this book follow this link. If you would like to watch the LinkedIn Live click here

"Variation is the norm, that actually we're all unique. We are all different. And even how we approach learning and decision making, we're all different." Susan Ni Chriodain In this special episode of 'Life Beyond the Numbers,' I take on a unique role as the interviewee, giving Dr. Susanne Evans the reins to explore the themes, inspirations, and key takeaways from my about to be launched book, 'Leading Beyond the Numbers.' This episode not only showcases the book's concepts but also reflects on the broader implications for personal development and organisational change. We shed light on why embracing individual differences and genuine self-expression in professional settings is not just beneficial but essential for creating more engaging and effective workplaces. We conclude with emphasis on the SEE-SAW acronym (Sleep, Eating & Hydration, Exercise, Sense-making, Awareness, Wisdom) as a practical framework for capturing the essence of this book.   Susan Ni Chriodain is a leadership coach, facilitator and experienced finance director Susan Ní Chríodáin who sits at the nexus of business and emotion and in her book Leading Beyond the Numbers she reveals how to reintroduce humanity into the workplace, for improved engagement and fulfilment, benefiting both individuals and organisations. Dr. Susanne Evans, host of ChangeStories podcast and founder of Feldspar Consulting, was the guest host on this episode.   Connect with Susan On LinkedIn   Resources Mentioned Leading Beyond the Numbers: How accounting for emotions tips the balance at work is published on May 14th 2024 and can be purchased from https://mybook.to/LBTN Lisa Feldman Barrett Episode #126 Slowing Down - Professor Giana M. Eckhardt Episode #127 The Performance Paradox - Kerry Cullen Episode #128 Alignment - Ana Bernardes Episode #134 I Feel Like Me Again - Jo Hunter Episode #67 Being Yourself - Eamon FitzGerald

"When momentum really comes into play so much of the background noise fades further into the background. And then momentum builds momentum. You become unstoppable, mostly!" Susan Ni Chriodain   In this episode you are invited to explore the multifaceted journey of writing and self-discovery, offering a glimpse into the challenges and rewards. I delve into the inner and outer challenges faced during the writing process, including self-doubt, perfectionism, and the importance of acknowledging progress. And I discuss the transformative impact of sharing the manuscript. I also emphasise the value of commitment, momentum, asking for help, and adapting personal routines to enhance your creativity and productivity. And I talk about celebrating the arrival of the book!   Leading Beyond the Numbers: How Accounting for Emotions Tips the Balance at Work will be published by Practical Inspiration Publishing on May 14th, 2024.   Connect with me: On LinkedIn Through my website: Beyond the Numbers   Resources Mentioned: Leading Beyond the Numbers: How accounting for emotions tips the balance at work will be published on May 14th 2024 by Practical Inspiration Publishing. It is available for pre-order online at major booksellers and on Amazon. David Whyte: Consolations and Start Close In

"Most of the time we're not listening, really listening. We're actually just thinking, what do I want to say next or what shall I say next? And just listening for the odd word or phrase that we need to hear in order to meaningfully respond in a way that satisfies us." Rob Lawrence   Rob Lawrence and I talk about the power of sound, the art of listening, and the journey of discovering and living one's truth. We delve into how our truths can be buried under societal expectations and the significance of listening — to both our inner selves and others — in uncovering and aligning with our truths. We also touch on the power of sound beyond its conventional appreciation, highlighting Rob's deep connection with sound and its impact on him. Rob shares insights from his personal journey, including a pivotal choice. He also talks about his podcast 'Inspirational Creatives,' its evolution, and his passion for collaboration and helping others find their voice and truth.    Rob Lawrence is a qualified audio producer, author, podcaster and certified coach who helps creative entrepreneurs, high-achieving professionals and business leaders embrace the power of sound to broadcast messages worth listening to. As an audio production coach, he helps his clients hear the meaning and messages beyond their words, before helping them use technology and broadcasting tools to guide their audiences into powerful explorations, dialogues and conversations of the topics that matter most to them. Prior to this Rob had a 21-year career in Information Technology and audio production, led award-winning teams and helped revolutionise communications for major European and Australasian corporations and brands.   Connect with Rob On LinkedIn Through his website   Resources Mentioned Inspirational Creatives Podcast

"Basically it's books that we recommend a lot or books that have really changed our practice." Dr. Susanne Evans   In honour of World Book Day and the value of reading Dr. Susanne Evans, David Lee and I recorded a conversation that explores a wide range of reads that have significantly impacted us including personal development, reflective practice, storytelling, neuroscience and touching on historical events such as the Rwandan Genocide. We each share insights on books that have changed our life, practice, or perspective, accompanied by anecdotes and a deeper look into the themes and lessons of selected works. This conversation offers listeners a rich tapestry of knowledge and a massive list of 'must-reads' for anyone looking to expand their understanding of themselves and the world through literature.    The following titles are included in our conversation The Right Questions by Debbie Ford The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz Presentation Zen by Garr Reynolds Frequency by Penny Pierce Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl The Joy of Appreciative Living by Jacqueline Kelm Reflective Practice in Medicine by John Launer On Being Certain Robert A. Burton Don't Bite the Hook by Pema Chodron Season of Blood by Fergal Keane Bittersweet by Susan Cain The Long Win by Cath Bishop The Soul's Code by James Hillman Time to Think by Nancy Klein Quiet by Susan Cain Prayer to the Great Creator by Julia Cameron Dealing with a Difficult Co-Worker by David Lee Leading Beyond the Numbers by Susan Ni Chriodain ChangeStories by Dr Susanne Evans   Dr Susanne Evans is an organisation change consultant, trainer, coach and researcher on a mission to change the way that transformations are managed in organisations. She founded Feldspar Consulting in 2007 to help her clients lead change in a more human, effective way. As well as writing and speaking about organisation change, Susanne hosts open storytelling workshops, supporting organisations and individuals in writing a compelling story for themselves, and she is the host of the popular ChangeStories podcast.   David Lee is a coach, consultant, workshop facilitator, keynote speaker, and author, who loves creating a win/win/win relationship between people and the organizations they work for. He helps leaders and leadership teams learn how to become "people whisperers", and by doing so, increase their ability to make their organization THE choice for "A List Talent" and inspire the best in their people.   Connect with Susanne On LinkedIn Through her website: Feldspar Consulting Listen to Change Stories podcast   Connect with David On LinkedIn  Through his website Human Nature at Work  

"Imagine if we create this whole chain of psychologically safe environments that every single individual in that chain had that sense of psychological safety. The innovation, the creativity and the sheer drive, growth, productivity and all of those things mean that we would be leaping forwards in terms of how we do things and generating new opportunities and new ways of doing things and better ways of doing things." Helen Joy   Helen Joy and I talk about how innovation and psychological safety are intrinsically linked. Helen highlights that a lack of psychological safety in the workplace stifles innovation by preventing people from expressing their ideas out of fear of judgment or humiliation. We chat through practical steps for fostering psychological safety at the individual, team, and organisational levels to create a conducive environment for innovation. Furthermore, we explore the challenges of maintaining such an environment across different parts of an organisation and the critical role of trust in building psychological safety. By addressing these challenges, organisations can unlock the full potential of their teams, enhance retention, and drive innovation.   Helen Joy is on a mission to change workplaces for the better by supporting that critical middle management level to develop the skills, knowledge and confidence to lead. She has more than 20 years experience in management training and her passion is in Leadership and Management Development, particularly for new and aspiring managers. Through People Sparks' bespoke, interactive programmes, Helen coaches businesses to create and motivate great managers, develop skills and confidence, and build environments that drive success.    Connect with Helen On LinkedIn Through her website People Spark   Resources Mentioned: Amy Edmondson How Psychological Safety Powers Innovation on YouTube    

"Insights" is a compilation episode that explores themes of resourcefulness, inner resources, and personal responsibility in accessing those resources.   Through excerpts from previous episodes in 2024, you are introduced to various perspectives on living vibrant lives, self-leadership, the significance of listening to one's inner voice, and taking personal responsibility for one's joy and mindset.    Insights includes excerpts from: 02:30 Karina Rook, Episode 159 Freedom to be Human 05:45 Claudia Anghel, Episode 161 All Roads Lead to Centre 09:30 Nathan Simmons, Episode 167 A Future Possibility 13.45 Caroline Tanja Banz, Episode 158 Wake Up! 17.45 Beth Stallwood, Episode 165 WorkJoy Formula 19:15 Andy Brown, Episode 166 Emotional Overdraft 22:00 Karina Rook, Episode 159 Freedom to be Human    

"This book is about telling a different version of a story. That might begin to rebalance and imbalance. It is about leading beyond the numbers and still knowing our worth contribution and value. It is about recognising people as people and not as numbers on a payroll or statistics in a report." Susan Ni Chriodain    In this solo episode I talk more about my upcoming book, Leading Beyond the Numbers: How Accounting for Emotions Tips the Balance at Work. The focus today is on the title. I talk about leading - leaders and leadership. I talk about 'beyond' and what that means. And I talk about 'the numbers' and leading beyond them.     I am the host of Life Beyond the Numbers Podcast. I've recently written my first book which will be out in May '24. I believe that the future of work relies on us harnessing the power of conversation so we interact with one another with intention and integrity. I help people have more fulfilling work-lives by guiding them to see their uniqueness to let it shine through.  Connect with me: On LinkedIn Through my website: Beyond the Numbers   Resources Mentioned: Leading Beyond the Numbers: How accounting for emotions tips the balance at work will be published on May 14th 2024. It is available for pre-order online at major booksellers and on Amazon. Episode 145 Facilitate People with John Fairhurst

"What we need to then do, though, is, rather than trying to create tomorrow based on all the clutter and the stuff that has and hasn't worked, we need to rewire to a future possibility." Nathan Simmonds   Nathan Simmonds and I discuss the importance of facing life challenges, overcoming personal struggles, and finding the strength to embrace a new path. Nathan shares his compelling life story, detailing how he navigated through personal challenges, including overcoming Crohn's disease, teenage bullying and a battle with drug addiction. Utilising his experiences and learnings, Nathan highlights the importance of understanding human dynamics, psychology, and adopting a reflective approach to address and overcome life's obstacles. Furthermore, he delves into the realms of leadership, hypnotherapy, and the effectiveness of future progressions in realising one's potential.   Nathan Simmonds specialises in delivering training experiences that go beyond the ordinary to ignite self-motivated, deeply aware, and conscious leaders. His training programs are designed to cultivate stronger relationships, enhance communications, and instil deep empathy while nurturing the talent of the future. He does this by combining practical tools, leadership psychology, and neuroscience, as a catalyst for innovation and creative problem-solving that propels leaders and businesses forward.   Connect with Nathan Through his website  Through LinkedIn If you have a more spiritual slant check out https://www.spiritmedicine.world/ Yet to launch eutopianpeople.com    Resources Mentioned Hurt people, hurt people by Dr. Sandra Wilson The Great Work of Your Life by Stephen Cope  Dr. Joe Dispenza Tony Robbins Karina Rook episode #159 Freedom to be Human  

"An Emotional Overdraft is the way that founders and entrepreneurs and leaders subsidise a business at the cost of their own mental or physical reserves and that can be very unhealthy and very damaging." Andy Brown   Andy Brown and I discuss how acknowledging and understanding our emotions is crucial, not just for business owners, but for anyone in a workplace. Although emotions and feelings might not be mainstream thinking for all business leaders yet Andy assures us it is coming. We delve into his book 'Emotional Overdraft', and Andy explains that an emotional overdraft leads to burnout, overwhelm and is causing “invisible damage” with hidden costs. We might think it is inevitable, it isn't. Andy takes us through some of the ten drivers of an emotional overdraft. He also tells us that if he had a tattoo it would say: Your feelings are a measure of your thinking.   Andy Brown is a Non-Executive Director, leadership coach, speaker and author. He provides coaching to leaders in people-based businesses, enabling them to make better decisions and to build more valuable businesses. Over the years, Andy has recognised that most leaders subsidize their companies at the expense of their own wellbeing, which he refers to as the ‘emotional overdraft'. This insight has enabled him to save numerous clients from burnout and stress and, at the same time, made their businesses more resilient. Andy was voted ‘Outstanding Non-Executive Director 2021'. Andy produces a twice-monthly newsletter for entrepreneurs, founders and leaders, called “Rambling On About Emotional Overdraft”. He has written hundreds of articles on leadership and business growth and has lectured at the University of Brighton.   Connect with Andy: Through his websites https://emotionaloverdraft.com/ and https://etc.co.uk/about/ On LinkedIn    Resources Mentioned: Emotional Overdraft by Andy Brown Atlas of the Heart by Brené Brown Carole Robbin Interpersonal Dynamics "Touchy Feely Course" Three Principles Permission to Feel by Marc Brackett Episode #162 Never Think You Are Reaching Too High with Mags de Valois  

"I always think about the work joy formula as how do you actually go from where you are to getting more joy in your life?" Beth Stallwood   Beth Stallwood highlights the importance of personal responsibility for one's joy in a work environment. She talks us through her journey of discovering joy in her work. She cleverly contrasts work joy from work gloom. We cover the three key components of work joy: Engagement, Energy, and Experimentation. Beth also highlights the importance of self-awareness and responsibility in creating happiness at work. She proposes the concept of 'squads' that you build from your network, and discusses six roles they can play in your career. She further suggests tracking joyful moments at work to build a more joyful experience.    Beth Stallwood is a consultant, facilitator, podcast host, author and qualified executive coach with over 15 years' experience. Her mission is to help people create and cultivate more WORKJoy. Beth's coaching style balances support and challenge in equal measure, enabling people to empower themselves to achieve their goals. With experience across commercial, public sector and not-for-profit environments, Beth's diverse background has allowed her to be highly agile in her approach, adapting to fit the context, culture and needs of each person on the WORKJoy Way programme. With a focus on the UK market, she has honed her skills in developing future leaders who can adapt, contribute and lead in an ever-changing world.    Connect with Beth:  Through her websites: Beth Stallwood and Create WorkJoy On LinkedIn   Resources Mentioned:  WORKJoy: A toolkit for a better working life by Beth Stallwood Resources to download from Beth's website WORKJoy Jam Podcast Episode 128, Alignment, Ana Bernardes  

"I delve into that in the book - the fact that none of us ever really know what's going on for someone else." Susan   In this solo episode I talk about my upcoming book, Leading Beyond the Numbers: How Accounting for Emotions Tips the Balance at Work. I talk about the inspiration behind the book. I read out some of the endorsements I have received to date. And I read some extracts from two separate chapters that include personal anecdotes and reflections on the importance of emotions and the integration of mind and body in the workplace.   I am the host of Life Beyond the Numbers Podcast. I've recently written my first book which will be out in May. I believe that the future of work relies on us harnessing the power of conversation so we interact with one another with intention and integrity. I help people have more fulfilling work-lives by guiding them to see their uniqueness to let it shine through.  Connect with me: On LinkedIn Through my website: Beyond the Numbers   Resources Mentioned: Leading Beyond the Numbers: How accounting for emotions tips the balance at work will be published on May 14th 2024. It is available for pre-order online at major booksellers and on Amazon. How Emotions Are Made by Lisa Feldman Barrett Emotional Agility by Susan David Permission to Feel by Marc Brackett Cassandra Speaks by Elizabeth Lesser Episode 28, Breakthrough with Gib Bulloch Episode 80, Why Do I Have to Fake it? with Greta Solomon Episode 107, Be In the Room with Ellen Leith

"If there's one huge piece of advice I can give, it's pick your lane and stay in it .... Don't worry about what anyone else is doing, just decide what you want, decide how you're going to get that and focus." Sally Oddy   Sally Oddy, an established entrepreneur, shares insights about her journey from being an employee to become a successful business owner. We delve into the details about her experience with burnout in a corporate environment which led her to change her career path and start a marketing consultancy. She shares how she transitioned from this to teaching others to do their own marketing. Sally outlines detailed advice for anyone planning to start a business, highlighting the importance of thorough planning, getting the basics right, and making strategic decisions based on long-term rather than short-term goals. Sally also shares her views on the challenges faced in the online business world and the misconceptions around 'quick success' in this field. The concept of 'membership' and 'mastermind' programs are explained with their respective benefits. If you are thinking about starting your own business or in a start-up phase this episode is one you won't want to miss.   Sally Oddy is a Strategic Powerhouse who shares no-nonsense systems, tactics and strategies that will completely transform how you operate your business! Working with Self-Led Soulpreneurs, she pours over 20 years experience into their hearts, minds and businesses and turned running an online business into a simple and clearly defined system enabling you to make a consistent income online and have the confidence, tools and skills to make it happen! She is on a mission to inspire you to fulfil your potential, live life to the full, and impact thousands of lives along the way!   Connect with Sally: Through her website On LinkedIn and Instagram   Resources Mentioned Episode 76 Limitless with Emma O'Brien  

"Never think you reaching too high. If you want to do something, go for it, go for what you actually want." Mags de Valois   Note: This episode from the archives was originally episode #13 on Oct 20th, 2020. For this episode I have recorded a brief introduction and a summary at the end with my key takeaways.    Margaret de Valois shares her journey of embracing her individuality while navigating the corporate city world and breaking the mould. We talk about how much more rewarding it is to make active choices and really consider what it is that you want to do in life. We talk about stereotypes, how she felt as if she was in "a controlling relationship with the City" and her relocation to Cornwall. We also delve into her love of people, communication and pensions as well as her experience with the London Philharmonic Choir. Margaret de Valois is an award-winning seasoned City professional now living in Cornwall. She qualified as an actuary and works as a Business Coach who helps businesses generate great ideas and plan practical strategies to guarantee business growth. And she is a co-host of the TV show Thinking Women.     Connect with Mags Through her website  Thinking Women TV   Resources Mentioned State Pension - UK Gov website

"I'm consistently, continuously discovering this... I discovered that the key is the centre. Not losing your centre. This message constantly comes to me, all roads lead to centre. Because of course it's normal, human, to go into extremes." Claudia Anghel   Claudia Angel talks about her transition from a traditional career in human resources to working with the resources of humans and guiding them in life. Claudia reflects on a pivotal moment that reshaped her career path. It happened after the end of a 13-year-long career with a multinational organisation that she loved. The end was abrupt but it lead to a significant life transition for Claudia. Claudia talks about the power of pausing and then pivoting and finally merging. During this time Claudia discover the Gene Keys — a system derived from ancient wisdom dating back 5,000 years ago. She talks about how Gene Keys provide insights into different aspects of your life, including work-life and various existential topics. Claudia Anghel founded the holistic HarRa Center for Gene Keys students as a space to creatively express their gifts and grow together. Following a traditional career in human resources including working as an international HR professional Claudia made a shift from human resources to working with people's inner resources and guiding them in life. Claudia loves to bring people together in an energy of trust, familiarity, and collaboration.   Connect with Claudia Through her website Through the Gene Keys website On LinkedIn, Facebook and Instagram   Resources Mentioned The Answer to How Is Yes by Peter Block PWN Global: Professional Women's Network Gene Keys The Art of Contemplation by Richard Rudd      

"Every conversation we have is co-created with other people."   In this solo episode I reflect on the influence of creative thinking in daily life. The World Economic Forum's top 10 skills of 2023 highlights creative thinking as the second top skill. Although creativity is often linked to monumental achievements or works of art, creativity emanates from all humans in our everyday activities. It is the ability to bring something into existence that didn't exist before.  Acknowledge the creativity you exhibit in your daily lives, from creating meals to creating conversations.   Resources Mentioned: The World Economic Forum Top 10 Skills Michael Neil  Aengus Fletcher on ChangeStories

"We are always at our best when we have freedom to be human. And what I mean by that is when we remember, or lean into, what makes us human, oh my gosh, that's octane for our performance and it's so much easier." Karina Rook   Karina Rook is an advocate for the virtue of 'freedom to be human' in our work-lives. In our conversation we cover the importance of genuine connection, overcoming stress and burnout, the role of rest and recovery and the concept of authentic self-leadership. We discuss the art of listening to our intuition, and nurturing attributes that light us up. Karina underscores her belief that humans are wired for success, and that compassion, understanding, and freedom to be human, dissolve barriers to optimal performance. And we discuss intriguing research that demonstrates, surprisingly, that performance only accounts for 10% of career success. Image or perception by others is 30% and networking or visibility contributes a whopping 60%.    Karina Rook is the founder of Ventures Green Ltd. and has embarked on a mission to empower women in their pursuit of holistic well-being. Her qualifications span biology, business, nutrition, mindfulness, and coaching, woven with 24+ years of empowering individuals, teams, and businesses in the corporate world. She stands against workplace inequality and believes every woman deserves to shine. Ventures Green is built upon values of freedom, interconnectedness, stardust, and adventure. She is the host of the Freedom to be Human podcast.    Connect with Karina Through her website Ventures Green On LinkedIn Celestial Coach on Instagram Freedom to be Human podcast   Resources Mentioned Harvey Coleman career success research Dr. Dorian Dugmore  Good to Great by Jim Collins  

"This is my mission, I think this is what I really want to do and what I'm born to do, to help people wake up." Caroline Tanja Banz   Caroline Tanja Banz shares her journey of self-discovery, which led her to 'marry herself' symbolically as an act of self-love and commitment to her own needs. Prior to this she said she had been a chameleon, adapting to situations and people around her instead of understanding herself. We delve into the Enneagram, a model of human psyche. Caroline advocates for the Enneagram as a powerful tool for understanding our behavioural patterns, deepening our relationship with ourselves and others, and ultimately awakening to our true selves. We talk about this tool in the context of the work environment. And we cover the importance of self-reflection.    Caroline Tanja Banz felt since she was a child that one day she would like to do something to make a difference. At first she wanted to be a musician, but then she completed a commercial apprenticeship. Then she became a mother to two wonderful boys. Music has accompanied her over the years and she still loves to bring joy to people with her music. When she later studied law, she learned a lot of practical things, but soon knew that this was not fulfilling her long-cherished desire. Today she is a Certified Professional Co-Active Coach (CPCC) and a trained Enneagram Coach. She loves her profession and has always enjoyed supporting people. Nature and sustainability are very close to her heart.    Connect with Caroline Through her website Be Your True Self    Resources Mentioned Be Your True Self sung by Caroline Tanja Banz The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz  Episode 120, Reconnecting with Sam Allen  

"Happiness comes from a wide variety of different sources. And actually happiness is not the one single thing that we should pursue because part of being human is the whole world of emotion and feelings. And all of them are valid." Gavin Andrews   In this episode, we explore the concept of mind-body connection and its implication for workplaces. The excerpts  highlight the importance of understanding and embracing emotions and feelings as a part of human intelligence rather than suppressing it. Guests share insights on navigating emotional data, enhancing emotional intelligence at a large scale in organisations, the power of belonging, importance of feelings, and the intersection of emotions and rationality. The conversation also emphasises the need for leaders to understand employee emotions, challenge unconscious biases, and foster a greater sense of belonging in the team. The episode offers a different perspective than traditional ways of thinking, urging listeners to tune in to embodied consciousness and bring their emotional selves to work for a more fulfilling and meaningful work-life.  7:30 Steve Haines on how minds and body are connected and the importance of feeling safe including with our interactions with others 13:00 Gavin Andrews on accessing the wisdom of the heart and state of coherence - an optimal state for heart and brain to be in 17:55 Rebecca Cheetham on mind-body disconnection and squishing emotions 18:50 Lisa Milnor on bringing awareness to the body 25:10 Gavin Andrews on bringing our emotional self to work 26:55 Steve Haines on how to make sense of sensations in our body 28:50 Matt Phelan on emotional data in the workplace and a sense of belonging 35:55 Jenny Ashmore on the power of a sense of belonging for teams   Resources Mentioned: My forthcoming book: Leading Beyond the Numbers: How Accounting for Emotions Tips the Balance at Work Alison Jones & Practical Inspiration Publishing  Coaches Rising Episode 10, Life Beyond the Numbers, This Feelings Business with Steve Haines Episode 38, Life Beyond the Numbers, Wisdom and Technology with Gavin Andrews Episode 48, Life Beyond the Numbers, Baby Steps with Rebecca Cheetham Episode 49, Life Beyond the Numbers, A Sense of Belonging with Jenny Ashmore Episode 59, Life Beyond the Numbers, Weird & Wonderful with Lisa Milnor Episode 67, Life Beyond the Numbers, Better Understanding with Matt Phelan

In this final episode of 2023, I take a reflective look back at the year, highlighting some guest interviews, insights and personal journeys. The journey from episode 116 to 156 was marked by diverse conversations traversing topics like personal growth, slowing down, challenges the significance of creativity, self-expression and giving people the chance to be themselves in order to create a more productive and happier workplace. And I share some anecdotes about writing my forthcoming book and the valuable insights gained during the process. As we head into 2024 I encourage listeners to embrace life's simplicity and to dare to achieve your potential.   Episode Snippets from: Episode #116 Challenges - Diego Adame Episode #120 Reconnecting - Sam Allen Episode #121 Courage - Robbie Swale Episode #122 What Matters Most? Susan Ni Chriodain Episode #126 Slowing Down - Professor Giana M. Eckhardt Episode #127 The Performance Paradox - Kerry Cullen Episode #134 I Feel Like Me Again - Jo Hunter Episode #135 The Twin Trails - Achim Arnold Episode #143 Executive Presence - Sue Rosen Episode #145 Facilitate People - John Fairhurst   Resources Mentioned 64 Million Artists January 2024 Challenge Inner Development Goals (IDGs) Leading Beyond the Numbers: How Accounting for Emotions Tips the Balance at Work by Susan Ni Chriodain

"I felt younger, I felt nostalgic, I felt the preciousness of life and the genuine appreciation of true friends." Susan   In this episode, I reflect on the significance of friendships in my life and the joy that they bring. I share experiences with friends from different phases of life, including colleagues from Deloitte, a friend from Pakistan, and school friends. I highlight the importance of friendships during challenging times and expresses my gratitude for my friends - many of whom I met at work.    Resources mentioned Consolations: The Solace, Nourishment and Underlying Meaning of Everyday Words by David Whyte    

 "If I'm working with somebody and they don't do their agreed upon "homework" and I'm telling myself a story like, Oh, they're not motivated. They're lazy. They don't take it seriously. And instead of  coming from that judgey point of view, asking, so what happened? And it turns out they didn't understand what the assignment was or whatever. Get curious, not furious. Get curious instead of judging." David Lee   Dr Susanne Evans, David Lee and I tackle the topic of motivation. We share their own examples, interpreting our motivations for our own personal behaviours and habits. We also explore motivation in a broader workplace context, including during change in an organisational setting. We emphasise the individuality of motivation, the need for leaders to understand team members' unique motivating factors, and the importance of cultivating a curiosity-driven rather than judgment-driven mindset in organisational settings.    Dr Susanne Evans is an organisation change consultant, trainer, coach and researcher on a mission to change the way that transformations are managed in organisations. She founded Feldspar Consulting in 2007 to help her clients lead change in a more human, effective way. As well as writing and speaking about organisation change, Susanne hosts open storytelling workshops, supporting organisations and individuals in writing a compelling story for themselves, and she is the host of the popular ChangeStories podcast. David Lee is a coach, consultant, workshop facilitator, keynote speaker, and author, who loves creating a win/win/win relationship between people and the organizations they work for. He helps leaders and leadership teams learn how to become "people whisperers", and by doing so, increase their ability to make their organization THE choice for "A List Talent" and inspire the best in their people.   Connect with Susanne On LinkedIn Through her website: Feldspar Consulting Listen to Change Stories podcast   Connect with David On LinkedIn  Through his website Human Nature at Work   Resources Mentioned: The video version on YouTube Quiet by Susan Cain Atomic Habits by James Clear Dark Horse: Achieving Success Through the Pursuit of Fulfillment by Todd Rose & Ogi Ogas The School of Life Change Anything by Vital Smarts Four Tendencies by Gretchen Rubin Drive by Daniel Pink's  Dr. John Launer on ChangeStories Podcast David Rock SCARF Model

"When people realise that I don't have enough self-love, I don't think you can teach somebody to have self love or to have a connection to your heart, but you can, become more conscious with the lack of it. And by doing that you start to vest in your own love and then in the love for other beings." Stephan Pfingsten   Stephan Pfingsten and I discuss his concern for the imbalance in global consciousness versus technological advancement. He explains how accumulated past traumas unconsciously affect us and suggests that we need to strive for an honest and emotional self-reflection in order to unlock our hidden potential for personal and societal transformation. Stephan shares his journey from working in accounting to being a CEO with a focus on human potential. We explored the symbiotic relationship between nurturing our inner potential and effective leadership, connecting with our heart-space, unlocking emotional intelligence in the business space, and why this is essential for harmonious, sustainable growth in the world.   Stephan Pfingsten's special gift is to be able to see a human being in all of her/his potential and in her/ his sufferings and longings. He is dedicated to accompany a person in developing her/his potential to the fullest. After graduating with a MBA he spent 3 years with Coopers & Lybrand (PwC) in San Francisco to become a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) in the State of California, U.S.A. After that he held various senior management positions in multinational enterprises in the software, banking and automotive industries in the US, Italy, and Germany.  Later he received various coaching certificates.    Connect with Stephan Through his website On LinkedIn On Facebook   Resources Mentioned Ken Wilber     

"Asking for help, I mean, I had no clue that that was the way out. It didn't even cross my mind at all. It's so crazy that asking for help was the way out." Migena Gjerazi   Migena Gjerazi and I delve into personal visions, change, surrender, taking responsibility for our choices and asking for help. Migena shares the importance of aligning with values that bring joy and excitement, even when the vision is unclear and encourages trust in the first step and openness to the unfolding path. She shares insights on imposter syndrome and suggests practical tools to combat self-doubt, including self-compassion, acceptance, and positive feedback. She recounts a powerful anecdote about asking for help and how this simple act can offer others an opportunity to contribute to our growth, creating a network of support and collaboration.   Migena Gjerazi MBA, CPCC, PCC is passionate about supporting people thrive professionally and personally by creating deeper connections, living more fully and transforming the relationships that matter most in their lives. Her area of expertise lies in self-leadership: leading from the inside out. That means taking charge and being responsible in all areas of your life activating your internal resources as well as making the best of the external circumstances - for you and the world around you. She supports you in co-creating a space where you can explore a new mindset; different perspectives; clear vision and strategy; clarity and commitment in a judgement-free and confidential environment.   Connect with Migena Through her website  On LinkedIn   Resources Mentioned: Episode 120, Reconnecting with Sam Allen  Influence is your Superpower by Zoe Chance Untaming Femininity Podcast