Super Powered: The Unique Stories of Modern Leaders

Rob D. Willis

Super Powered brings you battle-tested insights from leaders who've seen it all. From the boardroom to the poker table, these lessons come straight from the front line. You'll hear top leaders share their stories and uncover the tools they've built to succeed. Plus, you'll get tips you can use right away in your own work. Want to unlock your own superpowers? Hit subscribe now and join us as we redefine leadership in the real world. read less
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Episodes

How to Build a Powerful Leadership Brand
5d ago
How to Build a Powerful Leadership Brand
Ever wondered how to make people trust you before they've even met you? Bob Gentle transformed from a painfully shy local marketer into a globally-recognised personal branding expert by mastering this exact skill. His counter-intuitive approach helped him build a thriving consultancy where 95% of his clients have never even visited his home city of Glasgow.From recording (and deleting) over 100 videos before publishing his first one to now advising multimillionaire business leaders, Bob shares how he overcame his own visibility fears. As someone who spent 15 years in search and rescue dangling from helicopters but couldn't post a selfie online, his journey proves that fear isn't about capability - it's about comfort zones.This isn't just about building a brand - it's about understanding how people make decisions about you when you're not in the room. Bob reveals why trying to please everyone is the wrong approach, how to turn bad content into good, and why your unique perspective matters more than you think.Key Talking Points:The "scaffolding of imagination" framework that helps clients know, like and trust you before meeting youWhy showing up imperfectly beats hiding perfectly - and how one "terrible" video creator dominated his marketThe gradual desensitisation method Bob learned from search and rescue training that makes visibility less scaryHow to avoid the trap of trying to build "the unified theory of you" when starting your personal brandLinks & Resources:Bob's Podcast: Building Your LeaderBrandWebsite: amplifyme.agencyLinkedIn: Bob GentleBook Recommendation: The Alchemist by Paulo CoelhoFree Resource: Personal Brand Business RoadmapToday's Exercise: The Captain's LogThis daily video practice helps overcome camera anxiety and builds confidence in your on-screen presence. It creates a safe space to practice without the pressure of publishing.Steps to Apply:Set up a camera (not phone) in a private spaceRecord a 2-minute diary entry about your dayWatch it back, no matter how uncomfortableFocus on small improvements in delivery each timeContinue daily for at least two weeks before considering publishingNotice how your comfort level increases over time
How to Spot Opportunities Like a Serial Founder - Luke Tobin
Nov 22 2024
How to Spot Opportunities Like a Serial Founder - Luke Tobin
Ever walked past a business and thought "I could do that better"? Luke Tobin turned that exact instinct into three business exits. He spots gaps others miss - whether that's revolutionising how marketing agencies work with clients or discovering untapped revenue in the experience day industry.From a £6-figure exit of his festival bar company in his early twenties to building the UK's fastest-growing marketing agency (sold for 8-figures in 2022), Luke's track record speaks for itself. Now Co-CEO of Cadastra EMEA with 900+ employees and $50M revenue, he continues to scale companies through his £5M+ investment firm.This episode isn't just one big "success story" though. Luke openly shares his failures - the flopped modelling agency, the web design company that never launched - and reveals how burnout forced him to completely rethink his approach. His practical frameworks and hard-won insights will transform how you view the market around you.Key Talking Points:The counter-intuitive approach that achieved 95% client retention in an industry averaging 30%Why successful exits require 100% focus, and how to avoid the "multi-business trap"The hidden challenges of graduating from SME clients to global brands like Unilever and SamsungHow drama school techniques still influence million-pound business dealsLinks & Resources:Luke's LinkedInEntrepreneurial Edge BlogTobin CapitalBook Recommendation: Blair Enns - "The Win Without Pitching Manifesto"Vocal Warm-UpToday's Exercise: The Control FilterThis process helps you identify where to focus your energy by filtering out uncontrollable factors. It brings immediate relief from overwhelming situations and creates clear action steps for progress.Steps to ApplyWrite down all current problems, challenges, or stressors that are causing concernReview each item and mark which ones are directly within your controlCross out everything you cannot personally influence or controlFocus immediately on solving the controllable itemsReview remaining items the next day - many will have resolved themselvesFor persistent uncontrollable items, develop strategies to manage your response rather than trying to control the situation
20. Leadership Lessons from Amazon and Google | Richard Russell - Founder at Scaleup Leaders
Jul 17 2024
20. Leadership Lessons from Amazon and Google | Richard Russell - Founder at Scaleup Leaders
In this episode, I talk to Richard Russell who talks about his first time managerial role amid the cultural and operational transition during Google's acquisition of DoubleClick. He shares the crucial lessons he learned about adapting to different business models and the need for respecting established processes before driving change. Richard also talks about the importance of being coachable, picking your battles wisely, and executing with commitment. Guest Links LinkedIn Timestamps [00:00] Introduction to Richard Russell [00:59] Richard's Early Career and Management Aspirations [01:19] Challenges at Google and DoubleClick [02:49] Learning to Adapt and Manage [04:10] Realizations and Managerial Growth [05:33] The Importance of Metrics and Adaptability [07:16] Lessons in Leadership and Management [08:02] Applying Lessons to New Contexts [10:41] Navigating Company Cultures and Business Models [11:47] Balancing Product Improvement and Service [13:16] Navigating Customer Behavior and Organizational Change [14:12] Developing Leaders in Top Companies [14:41] The Evolution of Google's Strong Culture [15:06] Google's Product Philosophy and Market Success [16:26] Challenges in Adapting Google's Beliefs to New Markets [17:20] Misconceptions About OKRs and Business Success [18:23] Preparing First-Time Leaders for Success [18:58] Personal Reflections on Leadership Transitions [19:36] The Importance of Incremental Change in Business Strategy [20:44] Lessons from Amazon and Google on Leadership [22:44] Executing Well to Learn and Adapt [25:38] Final Thoughts and Advice for Leaders
08. How Not To Take No For An Answer - Joanna Parsons - Internal communication consultant, trainer and mentor
Jul 26 2023
08. How Not To Take No For An Answer - Joanna Parsons - Internal communication consultant, trainer and mentor
Join us in episode 08 of Leadership For Unicorns as we delve into the world of internal communication with Joanna Parsons, a seasoned consultant, trainer, and mentor. Joanna shares her wealth of knowledge and experience, offering invaluable insights into the challenges and solutions in the realm of internal comms. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking to understand the importance of effective communication within an organization and the role of leadership in fostering it. Joanna's journey, from being overlooked despite her expertise to becoming a respected voice in her field, is both inspiring and enlightening. Her experiences shed light on the common issues faced by many, particularly women, in the workplace. Whether you're a leader looking to improve your team's communication or an individual seeking to make your voice heard, this episode is packed with practical advice and strategies. Links to the Guest Joanna Parsons on LinkedInJoanna's Website Resources Mentioned Robert Cialdini - Influence Timestamps [00:01:24] About Joanna[00:03:06] Communication issues in organisations[00:08:01] Joanna's story: Ignored by leadership[00:14:03] Building confidence and believing in yourself[00:17:51] Why internal communications is critical to business[00:22:19] How to overcome bad internal communication[00:24:03] How leaders can play their part in internal comms
07. Modern Operating Model - Jenny Herald - VP Product Evangelism at Quantive, ex. Wunderlist, US Air Force
Jul 19 2023
07. Modern Operating Model - Jenny Herald - VP Product Evangelism at Quantive, ex. Wunderlist, US Air Force
Discover the secrets behind successful business operations in episode 07 of our podcast, as we dive deep into the modern operating model with Jenny Herald - VP of Product Evangelism at Quantive. With a history of navigating through the challenging landscapes of mergers and acquisitions, Jenny shares a trove of wisdom drawn from her multifaceted career. Having started out in the U.S military, Jenny's unique insights from her journey are bound to leave you captivated. Jenny's current focus revolves around OKRs, and while she recognizes their mixed reputation in the business world, she stands firm in her belief in their transformative power. Join us as we unravel the influence of OKRs in shaping successful companies, and let Jenny's eloquent advocacy sway your perception of this compelling business tool. Links to the Guest Dreams with Deadlines PodcastQuantiveJenny’s LinkedInDreams with Deadlines CommunityOffice Hours with Ben Lamorte Timestamps [00:01:15] Introducing Jenny[00:05:22] Lessons from the military: Commander's Intent[00:08:14] Wunderlist acquired by Microsoft[00:25:31] What are companies getting wrong with OKRs[00:31:40] How Jenny gets people engaged with OKRs[00:35:46] Creating a shared language of success[00:38:39] The modern operating model for business today Resources Mentioned Reid Hoffman, BlitzscalingJOHN DOERR, Speed and ScaleJohn Doerr, Measure what matters
06. When to leave and how to find a new haven - Dr. Veronika (Fischer) von Heise-Rotenburg - CFO at Everphone
Jul 12 2023
06. When to leave and how to find a new haven - Dr. Veronika (Fischer) von Heise-Rotenburg - CFO at Everphone
In episode 06 of Leadership for Unicorns, we speak to Dr. Veronika (Fischer) von Heise-Rotenburg, the CFO at Everphone. Veronika tells her story about the challenges she faced when her company was acquired. Acquisitions can often be tricky, and hers left her with a dilemma that affected her whole team. We also talk about valuable lessons she learned as a consultant, what value-based leadership means to her and how to promote sustainability in the workplace. Whether you're a seasoned executive or an emerging leader, this episode is packed with golden nuggets that will help you navigate your leadership journey with confidence and purpose. Links to the Guest LinkedIn - Dr. Veronika von Heise-Rotenburg Resources Mentioned Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us (English Edition) by Daniel H. Pink Timestamps [00:00:11] Meet Veronika[00:01:42] Extracting Golden Nuggets: Insights from McKinsey[00:03:47] The Spice of Life: Harnessing the Power of Diverse Experiences[00:06:15] Life After the Big Buyout: Navigating Post-Acquisition Terrain[00:08:38] Knowing When to Pack Up: Identifying Your Exit Cue[00:14:49] Navigating the Whirlwind: Practical Tips for Leaders in the Midst of Acquisition[00:17:24] Leadership 101: The Influence of Values in Command[00:19:43] Spotting Virtues: Assessing Candidates Beyond Their Skills[00:21:29] Upholding the Flag: Keeping Company Values Intact[00:23:13] Times of Change: When and Why to Rethink Company Values[00:25:27] Value Vistas: A Comparative Look at Different Corporate Cultures[00:26:39] Values Unleashed: How They Catalyze Peak Performance[00:28:31] Here to Stay: The Imperative of Sustainability[00:33:20] No-Nos and Deal Breakers: The Unconventional Shit List[00:34:02] Laser-Focus 101: Habits and Principles for Streamlined Productivity
05. How to turn the ship around? How to turn your project around - Andrii Dzynia - Senior Director of Engineering at Talabat, ex-Spotify, Candy Crush
Jul 5 2023
05. How to turn the ship around? How to turn your project around - Andrii Dzynia - Senior Director of Engineering at Talabat, ex-Spotify, Candy Crush
Summary Embark on an enriching journey in episode 05 of our podcast as we explore the intricate facets of leadership and project management with our guest, Andrii Dzynia, the Senior Director of Engineering at Talabat and a veteran from giants like Spotify and Candy Crush. Andrii walks us through his experience and insights into dealing with the occasional, yet inevitable, unrealistic expectations from higher-ups, which can lead to a slump in team morale if not handled deftly. In this enlightening conversation, we delve deep into the importance of self-reflection and the indispensability of strong values for creating a robust and trust-filled bond with your team. The crux? An empowered team that can stand their ground and push back when required, promoting a balanced and productive working atmosphere. Get ready to soak in Andrii's wisdom and let the ripple effect improve your leadership skills! Links to the Guest LinkedInWebsiteTwitterInstagram Resources Mentioned Steven Covey - Seven habits of highly effective peopleSteven Covey - The 8th HabitDavid Marquet - Turn the Ship Around Timestamps [00:01:05] About Andrii[00:04:09] Scaling companies[00:05:22] Why corporates aren't built for growth[00:07:51] A project that already wasn't going well[00:15:40] The importance of taking care of yourself[00:21:27] Building effective teams takes trust[00:26:06] Questions leaders should be asking themselves[00:29:15] Working in small chunks and small increments
04. From The Ashes - Sacha Dekker - Global Learning & Enablement Leader, Ex-Hubspot, LinkedIn & Oracle
Jun 28 2023
04. From The Ashes - Sacha Dekker - Global Learning & Enablement Leader, Ex-Hubspot, LinkedIn & Oracle
Summary Welcome to episode 4 of our show, titled "From The Ashes," featuring Sacha Dekker: a Global Learning & Enablement Leader with a career at industry giants like HubSpot, LinkedIn, and Oracle. In an intimate and insightful conversation, we delve into Sacha's life-altering journey of resilience and recovery after waking up paralyzed from a routine operation. A blend of the personal and professional, this episode explores how the worlds of disability and business intersect. Get ready to be moved by Sacha's powerful story as we discuss the challenges she faced both personally and professionally and how she rose from the ashes to rebuild her life. Gain insights into how the tech industry handles disability, the struggle for authenticity, and the unique experiences of an international professional in an American company. Listen in and learn how you can apply the lessons from Sacha's life to your own. Links to the guest Sacha's keynoteLinkedInInstagramTwitterJustGiving fundraiser for Beaumont Hospital Foundation Timestamps [00:01:15] Introducing Sacha[00:04:47] Working at Shell vs. working in tech[00:10:33] Authenticity vs. adapting communication[00:16:38] How great feedback helped[00:22:19] Experiences with a disability in tech[00:29:27] Advocating for people with disabilities in work[00:34:22] Building resilience in yourself[00:38:52] Helping others become more resilient Resources mentioned Reid Hoffman - BlitzscalingRobert Greene - Mastery