Episodi

  • What if resistance isn't something to overcome, but something to work with? And what if that uncomfortable tension you feel when facing change is pointing you toward something valuable on the other side?

    This solocast dives into the emotional messiness of change through the lens of a recent house move. It’s one of life's most stressful transitions. You'll discover how loss aversion creates natural tension between holding onto what we treasure and stepping into the unknown, and why this tension is is feature, not a bug, in the system..

    Through honest reflections on leaving my much-loved home for a fresh start, I'll share three practical approaches that helped navigate the interior world of transition. This isn't just about personal change – these insights translate directly into how you can lead your team through organisational shifts, restructures, and new directions.

    You'll learn:

    Why resistance is a signal pointing toward possibility, not an obstacle to eliminateHow loss aversion affects our ability to embrace change – and what to do about itThe power of being in motion and creating meaningful involvement during transitionsWhy acknowledging the full range of emotions speeds up the change processHow to lean into the new while honouring what you're leaving behindThree practical strategies for leading your team through change without fighting their resistanceWhy showing what's now possible matters more than pushing people to let goHow to create non-judgmental spaces for people to process transition

    Whether you're facing personal change, leading organisational transformation, or simply wanting to get better at navigating life's inevitable shifts, this episode will change how you think about resistance and what lies on the other side of it.

    I also mention Jason Clark's "Four Doors of Change" tool. Check that out here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vPhM8lxibSU

    Check out my services and offerings https://www.digbyscott.com/

    Subscribe to my newsletter https://www.digbyscott.com/subscribe

    Follow me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/digbyscott/

  • What if your perception of "unhurried productivity" isn't about someone constantly on holiday, but rather a deliberate approach to crafting a life aligned with your values?

    And what if the most powerful leadership practice isn't about getting things done faster, but creating genuine I-matter conversations where people truly feel seen and heard?

    That's what emerges in this special episode of Dig Deeper, where the tables are turned as I step into the guest chair of my own podcast. My friend Antonia Milkop takes the host role, guiding a conversation that explores the person behind the mic.

    We get into:

    Why "meeting people where they're at" transforms resistance into meaningful connectionHow burnout at 30 led to a complete reevaluation of my approach to life and workThe distinction between being "nice" versus being "kind" in leadershipWhy connection before content is the foundation of trust in any relationshipHow unhurried productivity is a state of mind, not just a state of movementWhy pivotal moments with "tough love" mentors can shape our leadership journeyHow embracing discomfort and messiness might be the gateway to our most significant growth

    Whether you're wrestling with busyness, curious about building trust quickly with new teams, or simply interested in the philosophy behind Dig Deeper, this conversation offers a glimpse behind the curtain that might change how you think about creating space for what truly matters.

    In this role-reversal episode, Antonia skillfully draws out perspectives on my journey from being a people pleaser to someone who stands for something, and why focusing on intentionality rather than constant activity leads to more meaningful outcomes.

    Timestamps:

    (00:00) - Introduction

    (05:16) - The Importance of Intentionality 

    (12:09) - Pivotal People and Moments in Life

    (15:32) - Building Trust in Leadership

    (23:40) - The Power of Connection Before Content

    (36:27) - Unhurried Productivity: Finding Balance in Busy Lives 

    (41:02) - Embracing Discomfort and Uncertainty in Leadership

    You can find Antonia at:

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/antoniamilkop/

    Others mentioned:

    Cam Fink: https://www.camfink.com/

    Simon Dowling: https://dig-deeper.captivate.fm/episode/18-why-creating-space-matters-more-than-efficiency-simon-dowling-on-intentional-leadership

    Georgia Murch: https://georgiamurch.com/

    Jennifer Garvey Berger: https://www.cultivatingleadership.com/team-member/jennifer-garvey-berger

    Adam Cooper: https://dig-deeper.captivate.fm/episode/14-natural-systems-nervous-systems-and-navigating-change-adam-cooper

    Check out my services and offerings https://www.digbyscott.com/

    Subscribe to my newsletter https://www.digbyscott.com/subscribe

    Follow me on LinkedIn

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  • Ever found yourself so focused on getting things done that you've completely disconnected from what you're feeling? And noticed how that numbness starts seeping into your relationships, your team dynamics, and your ability to truly lead?

    This episode explores the critical balance between head and heart in leadership – and why operating from just one without the other is limiting your impact. You'll discover how emotional disconnection during high-pressure periods can undermine everything you're trying to achieve, and more importantly, how to reconnect in ways that enhance both your effectiveness and your humanity.

    In this solo episode, I share my experience of emotional disconnection during a recent transition and how it affected my leadership. I explore the stark differences between head-only and heart-centred leadership approaches, and I share some practical steps to integrate emotional awareness into your leadership practice without sacrificing results.

    You'll learn:

    Why numbness in one area of life inevitably affects your leadership effectivenessHow to recognise when you're operating purely from the head versus connecting with heartThe difference between task-focused and emotionally intelligent leadership responsesPractical ways to schedule "heart time" and celebrate wins that create deeper team connectionHow vulnerability and courage become essential tools for authentic leadershipWhy connection becomes even more crucial during tight deadlines and high-pressure periods

    Check out my services and offerings https://www.digbyscott.com/

    Subscribe to my newsletter https://www.digbyscott.com/thoughts#subscribe

    Follow me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/digbyscott/

  • Do you find yourself constantly seeking clarity and certainty, even when faced with complex challenges that don't have simple answers? What if that very pursuit of certainty – that comfortable feeling we all chase – is actually blocking your growth, your learning, and your ability to create something new?

    This episode explores the counterintuitive idea that confusion isn't something to avoid, but rather something to value as a gateway to deeper learning. What's possible when we release our grip on needing to know and instead embrace the generative space of uncertainty? Together we consider how the most meaningful growth often happens precisely when we're willing to step into discomfort rather than rushing to make it disappear.

    Jennifer Garvey-Berger is a thoughtful disruptor who's constantly questioning how we might do business, relationships, family, and leadership better. As CEO of Cultivating Leadership, she's spent decades helping leaders navigate complexity and uncertainty. Jennifer brings a fascinating blend of intellectual rigor and lived experience to our conversation, including her bold experiment of buying a house with twelve friends in France to deliberately create a different way of living. In this episode, you'll discover:

    How confusion serves as a necessary gateway to learning and growthWhy certainty, despite feeling comfortable, often blocks our ability to discover new possibilitiesHow good conversations create something neither person had thought of beforeWhy crafting a meaningful life requires questioning default assumptionsHow deliberate disruption can lead to more authentic ways of working and livingWhy play and exploration remain essential elements of leadership at any ageHow creating intentional communities can challenge our assumptions about work/life separationWhy our idealism is not something to outgrow but rather a strength to cultivate

    Timestamps

    (00:00) The Value of Confusion

    (08:47) The Quest for a Better World

    (14:55) Living Fully vs. To-Do Lists

    (32:18) Creating a Unique Living Environment

    (40:03) Growth Through Difficulties

    (42:28) Giving Less Fucks

    Other references:

    David Whyte: https://www.goodreads.com/quotes/9100423-what-you-can-plan-is-too-small-for-you-toRichard Bach: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Illusions_(Bach_novel)Oliver Burkeman: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Four_Thousand_Weeks:_Time_Management_for_MortalsVito Perrone: https://www.gse.harvard.edu/ideas/news/11/09/hgse-remembers-vito-perroneThomas Huebl: https://thomashuebl.com/Heidi Brookes: https://www.cultivatingleadership.com/team-member/heidi-brooksAndrew Maffett: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/8dc40ef3-104d-4a48-a38e-495ed4650abbAdam Cooper: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/48bf4ecf-f533-47d3-943e-2445135d473d

    You can find Jennifer...

  • What if the most powerful thing you could do as a leader isn't to step in and save the day, but to step back and create space for others to shine? And what if your obsession with being the hero is actually preventing your team from reaching their potential?

    This episode looks at one of the most challenging transitions in leadership: moving from hero to host. You'll discover why the traditional heroic model of leadership, where you're the one with all the answers, solving every problem, is unsustainable and ultimately limits both your impact and your team's growth.

    I'll share practical insights on how stepping away strategically can enhance your leadership effectiveness, create self-sustaining systems, and build the kind of collaborative culture where everyone thrives. This isn't about becoming passive or disengaged. It's about becoming the kind of leader who creates ecosystems rather than dependencies.

    You'll learn:

    How to recognise when your heroic tendencies are holding your team backThe difference between stepping away and stepping out – and why timing mattersPractical strategies for creating psychological safety that allows others to step upHow to build sustainable systems that don't depend on your constant interventionWhy focusing on who you build is more important than what you buildSpecific tools and approaches to make the hero-to-host transition successfullyHow to celebrate team successes in ways that reinforce collaborative cultureThe art of identifying opportunities to step back without losing momentum

    Whether you're burning out from trying to be everything to everyone, or you're ready to create lasting impact beyond your direct involvement, this episode will reshape how you think about what leadership really means.

    Download the Plan on a Page mentioned in this episode here: https://www.digbyscott.com/planonapage

    Check out my services and offerings https://www.digbyscott.com/

    Subscribe to my newsletter https://www.digbyscott.com/subscribe

    Follow me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/digbyscott/

  • Have you ever found yourself caught in an endless cycle of meetings and tasks, wondering if your leadership is truly making a difference? 

    What if the most powerful leadership tool isn't your strategic plan or your team's expertise, but your ability to recognise and act on the second chances life gives you?

    This episode explores how our personal challenges can become a driving force and focusing tool for positive change and authentic leadership. 

    Sarah Manley's journey reveals the quiet power of listening to your gut, sitting with uncertainty, and moving beyond the "hero leader" mindset. What emerges is a perspective where leadership becomes less about personal achievement and more about creating space for something greater to emerge—where vulnerability becomes strength and purpose fuels resilience.

    Sarah Manley is the Chief Executive of MITEY New Zealand, delivered through the Sir John Kirwan Foundation. MITEY is a purpose-led organisation that provides evidence-based mental health education to primary and intermediate schools in New Zealand. 

    Born in Chile and adopted by New Zealand and Australian parents at just five weeks old, Sarah's origin story has shaped her deep sense of purpose and commitment to making a difference. In this conversation, she shares:

    How transforming your relationship with meetings can create space for what truly mattersWhy journaling for just five minutes a day can shift your focus from what you do to who you want to beHow to discern the difference between your gut instinct and your "love filter" when making decisionsWhy sitting with tension and uncertainty can lead to more authentic leadership choicesHow personal rock-bottom moments can become catalysts for purpose-driven leadershipWhy the "pinchy point" of leadership loneliness requires intentional connection with othersHow to build relationships before you need them rather than waiting for crisisWhy recognising that "you cannot not impact" transforms how you show up as a leader

    Timestamps

    (05:51) Listening to Your Gut

    (10:02) Journaling for Clarity

    (15:14) The Impact of Personal History

    (24:22) Transforming Adversity into Purpose

    (27:09) Rising from Rock Bottom

    (31:46) Building Support Networks

    Resources referenced:

    The Bigger Me ToolThe Network DiagnosticEpisode 15: Hazel Maclaurin on the Value of Mentorship

    You can find Sarah at https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-manley-nz/

    Check out my services and offerings https://www.digbyscott.com/

    Subscribe to my newsletter https://www.digbyscott.com/subscribe

    Follow me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/digbyscott/

  • Have you ever wondered what it takes to shift an entire leadership team's mindset and approach in today's fast-changing environment?

    This week, I share a case study from a recent 12-month engagement with a senior leadership team. It’s a story about moving from technical perfection to purposeful experimentation, and from control to empowerment.

    You'll discover the four essential ingredients that make lasting leadership change possible: 

    How to create the right amount of heat for transformationThe support systems that sustain progressWhy deliberate experimentation beats perfectionismHow connecting change to a bigger purpose keeps momentum alive.

    Whether you're leading change in your team or looking to evolve your leadership approach, this real-world example offers practical insights you can apply immediately.

    Check out the blog version of this episode at digbyscott.com/thoughts

    Check out my services and offerings https://www.digbyscott.com/

    Subscribe to my newsletter https://www.digbyscott.com/subscribe

    Follow me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/digbyscott/

  • What if leadership isn't about having all the answers, but about creating the right space for people to thrive? 

    And what if the outcomes from meetings weren’t just about being efficiency and effectiveness, but also about being engaging and expansive?

    Simon Dowling brings a fascinating blend of legal precision and improvisational creativity to his work with leaders. 

    We explore how the most impactful leaders intentionally shape the emotional quality of the environments they create – not just to get things done efficiently, but to generate genuine energy and connection. 

    And we get into the classic tension between the desire for control and the opportunity that exists when you let go.

    We explore:

    The power of "catalyst questions" that spark energy, thinking, and emotional responsesThe connection between creating space and making intentional choices as a leaderThe "three E's" framework: balancing Efficiency, Effectiveness, and Emotional quality in leadershipThe challenge of creating space within busyness rather than seeing it as something separateThe concept of "dual awareness" - being conscious of both your internal state and the environment simultaneouslyThe power of combining seemingly contradictory skills: pragmatic legal thinking with improvisational creativityPractical techniques for developing your "noticing muscle" and being more present as a leader

    Whether you're leading a team meeting or a major transformation, this conversation will change how you think about the spaces you create and the choices you make within them.

    Simon Dowling is a leading thinker on creating and leading collaborative teams and workplaces. As a speaker, facilitator and educator, he is all about equipping leaders with the inspiration and know-how to build strong, highly engaged teams.

    Simon began his career as a commercial lawyer, and is also an experienced improviser, including having been a regular cast member on the hit Australian TV show Thank God You’re Here.

    He’s the author of ‘Work With Me’, an authoritative work on the power and pragmatics of collaboration, and his writing spreads further with his insightful posts on LinkedIn. He’s a man worth following and a man worth talking with.

    Resources referenced:

    A More Beautiful Question by Warren BergerDevelop Dual AwarenessThe Moment of ChoiceI Love the Present

    You can find Simon at:

    Website: https://www.simondowling.com.au/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simondowling-aus/

    Check out my services and offerings https://www.digbyscott.com/

    Subscribe to my newsletter https://www.digbyscott.com/subscribe

    Follow me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/digbyscott/

  • Are you trapped in a life you didn't consciously choose? 

    Do you find yourself constantly reacting to demands rather than intentionally responding? Are you seeking a more deliberate way to live and lead that creates impact without burning you out?

    In this episode, Derek Sivers shares counterintuitive wisdom about breaking free from unconscious patterns, embracing slow thinking in a reactive world, and designing a life that truly reflects your choices rather than obligations.

    We discuss:

    The power of conscious choice: Derek reveals how recognising the difference between "have to" and "choose to" transformed his relationship with his successful business and ultimately led him to sell it.Slow thinking as a leadership advantage: Learn why pausing before responding leads to more original ideas, better decisions, and more meaningful connections with others.Breaking free from the zeitgeist: Discover how creating distance from mainstream thinking can become your competitive advantage in developing unique perspectives.The simplification technique: Derek explains how clarifying and simplifying complex problems often reveals the solution without needing outside expertise.

    About Derek Sivers

    Derek is a writer, musician, programmer, and entrepreneur who founded CD Baby (which he sold in 2008 after growing it into the largest seller of independent music online). Now focused on writing and sharing unconventional wisdom, Derek approaches life with deliberate intentionality.

    In our conversation, we cover:

    Why Derek sees moving and changing perspective as essential to growth and learningHow to recognise when you're following "useful but not true" assumptions that limit your optionsThe transformative practice of journaling and how it clarifies thinkingWhy creating a life without an audience to impress can lead to more authentic choicesThe value of unhurried productivity in a world obsessed with speedHow asking better questions often matters more than finding answers

    You can find Derek at https://sive.rs/

    Check out my services and offerings https://www.digbyscott.com/

    Subscribe to my newsletter https://digbyscott.com/subscribe

    Follow me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/digbyscott/

  • Have you ever wanted to take a career break? Maybe you’ve taken one and want to get inspiration for the next one? Perhaps you’re curious about how you can make them a part of your organisation’s talent strategy?

    Career breaks done well can provide massive benefits for your professional and personal life. This conversation gives you both ideas for the inspiration and implementation of your own career break, as well as ideas for how they can benefit organisations looking to retain and develop their talent.

    This episode is a conversation between three colleagues - Katie Hair, Jodi Willocks, Colm Kearney and me. We’ve all recently taken career breaks and gotten a huge amount from them. 

    We discuss:

    (00:09) Introduction to the conversation on career breaks

    (06:36) The difference between a "sabbatical" vs. "career break"

    (10:36) Recognising when it's time for a change

    (15:34) How we frame our time away from work

    (20:51) Practical preparations: Financial planning and communication strategies

    (29:03) The value of creating space and renewal

    (38:18) Why career breaks should be normalised in the future of work

    (44:24) The "evaporation" phase: letting everything go to see what remains

    (49:18) How breaks accelerate personal growth and leadership development

    (54:24) Navigating the emotional journey of a career break

    (01:01:11) Practical tools for making the most of your break

    (01:07:04) How organisations could better support career breaks

    (01:16:02) Final advice for those considering a break

    (01:21:36) Conclusion and resources at digbyscott.com/careerbreak

    You can learn more about my guests at: 

    Katie Hair: https://www.katiehair.co.nz/ (and check out Episode 5 for a deep dive conversation with Katie)Jodi Willocks: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodi-willocks-6b035446/Colm Kearney: https://www.linkedin.com/in/colm-kearney/

    Sign up to the Career Break community https://digbyscott.com/careerbreak

    Check out my services and offerings https://www.digbyscott.com/

    Subscribe to my newsletter https://www.digbyscott.com/subscribe

    Follow me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/digbyscott/

  • Have you ever felt caught between competing identities in your professional life? Perhaps you've built a career on expertise and achievement in one domain, only to find yourself navigating an entirely new landscape that fundamentally changes how you're perceived.

    Today's conversation explores the importance of evolving your identity as your context changes, and how as we get older, we can get more nuanced in how we relate to the complexity that change brings. 

    Hazel Maclaurin shares her multifaceted journey as a musician, poet, digital marketing leader, and strategic HR content expert. She discusses the profound impact of mentorship on her career, the importance of storytelling in evoking change, and the necessity of nuance in today's world. 

    Whether you're wrestling with complexity in your organisation or seeking to honor all dimensions of your life, this conversation offers both wisdom and a refreshingly honest take on what it means to lead with authenticity.

    We discuss:

    The growing importance of ‘adaptive capacity’The power of brilliant mentorsThe difference between running away from something vs. moving toward something and how that difference transforms our relationship with work and leadership.the value that her ‘squiggly career’ has brought her the importance of embracing nuance in decision-making. the power of storytelling and language in fostering understanding and connectionthe societal expectations placed on women, the impact of motherhood on professional identity, the significance of self-compassion in personal evolution

    Hazel Maclaurin is a strategic HR content expert with over a decade of high-level corporate experience, including roles as global content manager for enterprise at Korn Ferry and global head of content at the Project Management Institute. Her "squiggly career" path—spanning titles including (but not only) musician, poet, digital marketing specialist, and HR strategist—has given her ‘range’ - unique insights and understanding into the human condition and the power of connection through language.

    You can find Hazel at:

    Website: https://www.hazelmaclaurin.com/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/hazel-maclaurin-b985a625/

    Blog: https://thiswomenswork.com/

    Substack: https://thiswomenswork.substack.com

    Check out my services and offerings https://www.digbyscott.com/

    Subscribe to my newsletter https://www.digbyscott.com/#subscribe

    Follow me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/digbyscott/

  • Do you know that feeling when you're in a meeting or delivering a speech and you're caught up in thinking about what you want to say next? Then you completely miss the moment when something happens? And you're scrambling to catch up?

    This episode hones in on how we can stay more present to what's going on and then respond in the moment to what's happening so we can engage people more effectively and better navigate messy, complex situations.

    You’ll learn:

    How diving into the unknown fosters creativity and connectionWhy pre-meeting interactions shape the outcomes of gatheringsHow language influences our identity and decision-makingWhy navigating the unknown requires collective effort and presenceFour forms of listening that you need to masterHow nature serves as a powerful teacher for leadership.How systemic change begins with individual awareness and action.Why breath and presence are essential tools for leaders.Why savouring the world leads to deeper understanding and connection.

    Adam Cooper is one of those people who sees the world just a little bit differently. Adam grew up in Zimbabwe during a time of profound change, watching a society transform before he moved to New Zealand when he was 18. And that experience of seeing how quickly things can shift has shaped his unique lens on leadership and change.

    Adam's known for helping leaders and organisations see possibilities they didn't know existed. And he brings a fascinating blend of strategic thinking and embodied wisdom to his work. He's got this uncanny ability to spot patterns and shifts in society long before they become obvious to everyone else. 

    Adam designs his own path and is a role model for how you can too. 

    You can find Adam at:

    Website: https://www.creativeleadership.co.nz/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adcoops/

    Check out my services and offerings https://www.digbyscott.com/

    Subscribe to my newsletter https://www.digbyscott.com/thoughts#subscribe

    Follow me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/digbyscott/

  • How willing are you to let your ideas be destroyed? 

    That's a scary concept for many people because we can equate good ideas with being worthy. 

    But what if your worth comes from being a learner and not perfect?

    In this messy and complex world where the old structures and systems of society and work are found wanting, we need to evolve and adopt new ideas fast. 

    If you want to level up how you lead change, innovation, and learning, this episode will teach you: 

    How to create an environment of constructive challenge that enables fresh perspectives and stronger relationshipsWhy Rob believes collaboration trumps competition when problem-solving every timeThe importance of understanding the purpose behind traditionsWhy critical thinking should focus on accuracy rather than being rightThe way information is shared impacts its receptionThe discipline of patience when planting seeds of wisdom

    CO2 Rob Pa’o exemplifies an approach to life and leadership that is about blending curiosity, humility, and integrity into a potent package with plenty of practical wisdom for all of us.

    Rob’s heritage is Samoan. He’s a first-generation immigrant to New Zealand and was brought up in the predominantly white city of Christchurch. 

    Growing up in this environment, as someone who didn’t necessarily look like most other people there, strongly shaped how Rob made sense of who he is.

    When Rob and I first met a few years ago, he struck me as someone with a strong sense of who he is, yet with a deep curiosity to keep learning and growing. Rob makes you feel seen, heard, and invited to be bigger. It’s a powerful experience!

    You can find Rob on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/co2-robert-pa-o-417b70223/

    Check out my services and offerings https://www.digbyscott.com/

    Subscribe to my newsletter https://www.digbyscott.com/thoughts#subscribe 

    Follow me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/digbyscott/

  • Are you trying to make lasting change happen, but you feel like you’re banging your head against a wall of short-term dramas and siloed thinking?

    This episode will help you to rise above the fray and hone in on how to be valuable, stay relevant, and play the longer game. 

    Dr. Richard Hodge is one of Australasia’s preeminent thought-leaders in systems thinking. He’s been in the workforce since 1970, with wide experience in science, engineering, public sector policy and the corporate world. Richard was one of the founding fathers of a major strategy business in Canberra, growing it to 80 staff and >$20M in revenue in 6 years. In 2007, he moved from advising GMs to being one in a global engineering business until he was sacked in 2010, one week after completing his PhD (part time). Since then, Richard has established his own practice helping leaders engage - not manage – complexity with the help of systems sciences.

    Together, Richard and I dig deep into: 

    Why understanding value is crucial for effective leadership and decision-makingHow relevance is determined by how well we align our actions with our valuesHow the long tail of consequences highlights the impact of our actions over timeWhy community engagement is essential for sustainable changeThe importance of efficiency not overshadowing ethics in organisational practicesHow generational wisdom plays a crucial role in systems thinkingWhy imagination is essential for envisioning changeHow making small, incremental steps can lead to significant transformationHow defining 'enough' is vital for personal equilibrium.Why connection and relationships are at the heart of effective leadership.

    If you're looking for ways to have a more lasting and sustainable impact in your work and life, this episode will give you lasting pearls of wisdom.

    Time Stamps:

    (00:00) - Imagining Better Leadership Through Systems Thinking

    (03:05) - The Dragonfly: A Metaphor for Leadership

    (08:09) - Understanding Value, Relevance, and Long-Term Impact

    (14:21) - The Role of Community in Effective Leadership

    (21:38) - The Five E's of Leadership: Beyond Efficiency

    (24:51) - Personal Stories Shaping Systems Thinking

    (30:41) - Challenges in Implementing Systems Thinking in Organisations

    (33:09) - Systems Thinking: The Spirit of Adventure

    (35:37) - Imagination and Possibility Thinking in Leadership

    (38:57) - The Long Game: Transformational Change in Organisations

    (44:26) - Personal Growth: Applying Systems Thinking to Individual Development

    (58:58) - Defining Enough: Values and Life Choices

    You can find Richard at:

    Website: https://www.drrichardhodge.com/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drrichardhodge/

    Article: Play the Long Game https://www.digbyscott.com/thoughts/play-the-long-game

    Check out my services and offerings https://www.digbyscott.com/

    Subscribe to my newsletter https://www.digbyscott.com/thoughts#subscribe

    Follow me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/digbyscott/

  • Do you feel like work is taking over your life, leaving little room for fulfillment? Are you struggling to make your work align with your values or wondering how to create more balance and purpose in your career?

    In this episode, we explore how to bring more meaning into your work by aligning it with your values and learning how to lead with purpose. You'll hear how restructuring your approach to work can help you avoid burnout, create healthier boundaries, and make a lasting impact without sacrificing your well-being.

    Gillian Brookes is an HR professional, consultant, and author of Flexperts, with a passion for creating workplaces that serve people, not just the bottom line. In this episode, we dive into:

    How to redesign flexible work to create balance and well-being.Why the current economic structure is leaving many people behind—and how we can change that.The importance of boundaries and how to set them as a leader and working parent.How to sustain your energy while maintaining conviction in your values.What it means to create a purposeful and integrated life where work and personal values coexist.

    You can find Gillian at:

    Website: https://www.gillianbrookes.co.nz/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gillian-brookes-88928aa2/

    Check out my services and offerings https://www.digbyscott.com/

    Subscribe to my newsletter https://www.digbyscott.com/thoughts#subscribe

    Follow me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/digbyscott/

  • Have you ever felt uncertain about your career path or questioned whether your empathetic leadership style is a strength or a weakness? 

    Or maybe you’ve wondered if it’s okay to embrace a non-linear, “squiggly” career while still finding success and fulfillment.

    In this episode, we dive deep into the power of following your gut, embracing a career that doesn’t follow the traditional path, and leading with vulnerability and empathy. 

    If you’ve ever worried about being ‘too nice’ as a leader, or if you’re facing burnout and wondering how to recharge, this conversation will help you uncover how to honour your values while carving your own path.

    Jodi Willocks has a background in marketing and advertising. With 21 jobs in 26 years, she has a hugely diverse range of experiences that give her a unique perspective on leadership. She’s also a co-founder of the Women of Pōneke movement, and is an exquisite writer on leadership and career topics.

    In our conversation, we explore:

    Why empathy is a strength, not a weakness, in leadershipThe importance of trusting your instincts and following a non-linear career pathHow embracing vulnerability can unlock more authentic and effective leadershipWhat Jodi learned from leading through COVID and how it transformed her approach

    Timestamps:

    (00:00) - Introducing Jodi Willocks

    (04:45) - The Foundation of Authentic Leadership

    (10:05) - The Impact of COVID on Leadership

    (17:54) - Navigating Career Breaks and Burnout

    (28:58) - Discovering Creativity Through Blogging

    (34:43) - The Importance of Recovery and Recharge

    (42:58) - The Sanctuary, Sandpit, and Stage Framework

    (50:13) - Ingredients for Successful Leadership

    You can find Jodi at:

    Website: https://www.careerjourneying.nz/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jodi-willocks-6b035446/

    Women of Pōneke: https://www.womenofponeke.org.nz/

    Check out my services and offerings https://www.digbyscott.com/

    Subscribe to my newsletter (https://www.digbyscott.com/thoughts#subscribe)

    Follow me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/digbyscott/

  • In this final episode of Dig Deeper for 2024, I’m reflecting on the key themes I’ve explored in the podcast and my blogs throughout the year. I'll cover four themes:

    the importance of discomfort for growththe shift from a hero to a host mindset in leadershipthe necessity of creating space for reflection the power of letting go of control. 

    Each theme has insights from previous podcast guests and excerpts from my writing, and some questions for you to take away and reflect on.

    Links:

    Fire, by Judy Brown: https://www.judysorumbrown.com/blog/breathing-space

    The Let Go: https://www.digbyscott.com/thoughts/the-let-go

    Check out my services and offerings https://www.digbyscott.com/

    Subscribe to my newsletter https://www.digbyscott.com/thoughts#subscribe

    Follow me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/digbyscott/

  • Do you ever feel hamstrung by the rules you’re bound by? The have-to’s and should’s and the ‘don’t-do-that’s’ that govern your work practices and broader life? Do you ever wonder what things would be like if you could change the rules of the game?

    Rules are invented. They're made up. Which means they can be uninvented, or reinvented. Today’s conversation with behaviouralist and facilitator Suzanne Rosa explores the importance of identifying, challenging, and changing the rules to serve the purpose we’re here for.

    After listening, you’ll have a fresh way of thinking about how you can unlock new ways of working and living to create more of what matters.

    Suzanne was born in England and now lives in Sydney. She had a really tough upbringing: born deaf, she had multiple operations to restore her hearing. Then she lived in a truck travelling around Europe before becoming a foster child and then a homeless teenager. All of this led her to dig deeply into life's range of emotions and explore how we can utilise all that living has to offer. She's the author of two books, A Flourishing Mind, and Sleeping Giants. She can be summed up in three words: energy, curiosity, and ferocity.

    In this conversation, we explore:

    How our perception and lenses shape the meaning we make of the worldThere is no one truth, and why it's important to question our own perspectiveHow societal conditioning often limits our ability to pioneer and think outside the boxHow listening to our own signals and questioning the rules that hold us back can create conditions for a pioneering spiritThe importance of questioning societal norms and rulesHow to take time to regather and ground yourself before embarking on new chapters of personal growth.

    You can find Suzanne at:

    Website: https://suzannerosa.com/LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/suzannewaldron/?originalSubdomain=au

    Check out my services and offerings https://www.digbyscott.com/

    Subscribe to my newsletter (https://www.digbyscott.com/thoughts#subscribe)

    Join the Career Break community https://www.digbyscott.com/careerbreak

    Follow me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/digbyscott/
  • Leadership is a journey of constant tension – between expectation and authenticity, between comfort and courage, between being liked and being effective. What if you could transform those tensions into your greatest source of strength?

    Join me for an extraordinary conversation with Sir Ashley Bloomfield, a leader who navigated one of the most challenging leadership landscapes in recent history. During New Zealand's COVID-19 response, he became the face of national resilience, embodying leadership under unprecedented pressure.

    In this personal and candid episode, Sir Ashley pulls back the curtain on the raw, unfiltered realities of leadership. We'll explore the delicate balance between personal conviction and public expectation, the art of making tough decisions when the whole world is watching, and how to maintain your humanity while bearing immense responsibility.

    In this episode, we dive deep into the heart of leadership, exploring:

    Leadership as Inspiration: How an unexpected source – the beloved character Ted Lasso – provided unexpected wisdom during New Zealand's most challenging timesThe Leadership Landscape: Navigating the complex terrain of modern leadership, from the rise of populism to the critical importance of empowering othersThe Transformative Power of Agency: Understanding how true leadership is about creating space for others to act, not just directing from the topThe Courage of Vulnerability: Why saying "I don't know" is sometimes the most powerful leadership statement you can makeThe Dangerous Allure of Simplicity: Unpacking why quick fixes and simplistic solutions can be more harmful than helpful in complex challengesAdaptability as a Leadership Superpower: Exploring how continuous learning and flexibility are essential in our rapidly changing worldThe Nuanced Art of Kindness: Discovering the critical difference between being "nice" and being truly kind in leadershipDecision-Making Decoded: Balancing the drive to be decisive with the wisdom of thoughtful, inclusive decision-making processesLeadership Under Pressure: Understanding why personal conviction must often triumph over personal comfortThe Ripple Effect: How principled leadership can transform not just organisations, but entire communities

    Get ready for a conversation that goes beyond traditional leadership advice – this is leadership unpacked, unfiltered, and deeply human.

    These insights promise to challenge your understanding of leadership, offering a fresh, nuanced perspective that goes beyond traditional leadership advice.

    You can follow Sir Ashley on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-bloomfield-knzm-cminstd-b7181b17/

    Check out my services and offerings https://www.digbyscott.com/

    Subscribe to my newsletter (https://www.digbyscott.com/thoughts#subscribe) or substack

    Follow me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/digbyscott/

  • Do you ever feel the need to be the leader with all the answers? 

    Do you feel the relentless pressure to bow to the barrage of deliverables that are in front of you every day?

    Do you wish you could just get some space?

    There’s got to be a better way, right?

    This episode is gold if you’re looking for a better way to sustain your own and your people’s performance and growth.

    James Miller is an executive coach and host of a rural accommodation business. What’s common to both of these roles is the importance of creating the space for others to breathe out, reflect, and get perspective. James is an absolute master at this.

    In this episode, we explore:

    How, as corporate leader, James dealt with the pressures of having to conform, and how he found freedom and space to be himself during that periodWhy staying in a job that doesn't serve you can harm your confidence and sense of value.Ways to create the balance between ‘delivery’ and ‘discovery’How to navigate the liminal space, the space between ‘no longer’ and ‘not yet’, and why it’s a critical part of the process of creating what's next.How James has created spaciousness and a sense of unhurriedness in his everyday life, and how that has led to greater creativity, productivity, and fulfillment.The courage needed to make decisions that align with your values and contribute to personal growth and why it’s essential for long-term fulfillment.How hosting others and creating environments that support personal growth can be transformative for both the host and the guests.The power of being present and fully engaged in conversations, creating a space for others to feel heard and valued. Why every day needs to be interesting and different!

    You can find James at:

    Website https://www.idlewildbridgetown.com.au/LinkedIn

    Check out my services and offerings https://www.digbyscott.com/

    Subscribe to my newsletter (https://www.digbyscott.com/thoughts#subscribe)

    Follow me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/digbyscott/