Level Up Leadership

Kate Peardon

This podcast is for chronically busy leaders and small business owners who are ready to get out of the weeds and start leading. Each episode will have micro leadership lessons to be 1 % better each day. Hosted by Kate Peardon, CEO at Zenith Journey. read less
BusinessBusiness
How Grown-Ups Grow Up: Exploring Vertical Development with Dr. Alis Anagnostaki
Sep 6 2023
How Grown-Ups Grow Up: Exploring Vertical Development with Dr. Alis Anagnostaki
Welcome to today's leadership podcast episode, which marks the beginning of our exciting leadership interview series. In this series, we will be diving deep into the world of leadership by talking to leaders and specialists to shed light on the multifaceted concept of leadership.Our first guest is none other than Dr. Alis Anagnostakis. Alis and I crossed paths in Spain and have collaborated on various projects throughout the years. Her expertise lies in the realm of Vertical Development, which essentially delves into how adults continue to "grow up" personally and professionally.Here are some highlights from my conversation with Dr. Alis Anagnostakis:Embracing Difficult Emotions: We discuss the power of embracing difficult emotions rather than suppressing them. Discover how curiosity can be the key to personal and professional growth."Growing Pains" in Adulthood: Alis shares a fascinating analogy involving her daughter's piano learning journey to explain the challenges and transformations that adults go through.The Vertical Development Framework: Both Alis and I are certified in the Global Leadership Profile, and we explore how this framework can be a valuable tool in understanding and enhancing leadership capabilities.Challenges for Expert-Level Leaders: We uncover the challenges that leaders at the Expert level may encounter when they personally do the work of their team (instead of leading the team).A Personal Journey: I share a personal story of a life-altering event, my stroke, which became a defining moment in my leadership journey. We also delve into the science behind the emotional growth I experienced.Overcoming Emotional Stuckness: how emotions can cloud our perspective, trapping us in a state of "stuckness," and discover strategies to navigate through such moments.I hope you enjoy this enlightening and insightful first episode with Dr. Alis Anagnostakis. Stay tuned for more interviews with remarkable leaders and experts in the field of leadership.If you’d like to explore your own level of Vertical Development, contact Alis or myself directly for leadership coaching and profile debriefs.What's Vertical Development (and what's Horizontal Development)?Horizontal development is about learning new skills, while Vertical Development is about evolving your mindset, consciousness, and ability to handle increasingly complex challenges. It's not just about what you know or do but also about how you think and who you are as a leader.Vertical development is valuable because it enables leaders to adapt to the ever-changing landscape of leadership challenges and make more effective decisions in complex and uncertain environments. It's about personal and professional growth that goes beyond the surface and helps leaders become more adaptable, empathetic, and effective in their roles.LinksDelegation PlaybookLeadership MentoringHarvard Business Review “The Seven Transformations of Leadership” https://hbr.org/2005/04/seven-transformations-of-leadership The Global Leadership Profile - https://gla.global/the-glp-overview/ Alis’ podcast The DevelopmentalAlis’ website The Vertical Development Institute Connect with Me: ·         Join Weekly Email:
Caffeinated Leadership: Energising Underperformers (instead of firing them)
Aug 21 2023
Caffeinated Leadership: Energising Underperformers (instead of firing them)
A delightful tale of my coffee machine woes and how professional tweaks can work wonders for your team.Imagine me, sipping my morning elixir, when I realize it doesn't taste heavenly anymore. Panic sets in—are my taste buds betraying me? Have I become immune to caffeine? But then, it hits me like a caffeine rush—I've got a coffee machine emergency! Instead of splurging on a new machine, I decided to give my faithful companion one last shot. Off it goes to the coffee machine spa, and lo and behold, it comes back brewing heaven in a mug!Now, let's talk about underperforming staff at work. We often consider firing and rehiring, but the cost of employee turnover is a real buzzkill. Lowered morale, decreased productivity, and the financial burden of recruiting and training—ouch! By investing in leadership mentoring and targeted strategies, struggling team members can transform into superstars without breaking the bank. It's like giving them an espresso shot of motivation! Plus, embracing professional tweaks fosters a culture of growth and improvement.So, fellow coffee aficionados and team leaders, let's caffeinate our team's performance! If you want to chat about optimizing your team, let's grab a virtual coffee. I offer team workshops and one-on-one mentoring to help you unleash your team's potential.Remember, a little professional tweak can go a long way in brewing success. Check the show notes for more info. Here's to a strong and delicious team performance. Thanks for brewing with me!LinksMasterclass “Giving Feedback That Doesn’t Suck”Leadership Mentoring 1:1 Delegation PlaybookReferences: https://www.peoplekeep.com/blog/employee-retention-the-real-cost-of-losing-an-employeeConnect with Me: ·         Join Weekly Email: https://campus.zenithjourney.com/mailinglist   ·         Website: https://www.zenithjourney.com/ ·         LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katepeardon/ ·         Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zenithjourney/
That time I made my team member cry
Aug 17 2023
That time I made my team member cry
An embarrassing story of my time as a new manager. Even as I’m recording it I can’t believe I’m sharing it with you. I was in my early twenties, I was confident and competent, but on the inside I was worried that they might notice that I'd never led a team before, and would I be good enough? As a new leader, I thought it was my duty to deliver hard feedback. I thought tough love was the way to go, even when facing real challenges, because I believed honesty was what every team member desired. Then came a situation where a team member approached me with an issue. Without hesitation, I shared my unfiltered thoughts on the matter, adhering to the notion that effective leaders rule with an iron grip.Listen to this episode to find out what unfolded and how my perspective has changed over time. This story holds valuable lessons about giving constructive feedback. I also want to invite you to a free online masterclass happening in August: "How To Give Feedback (that Doesn't Suck)." Together, we'll explore how to create a feedback-rich environment that paves the way for your team's success. Simply click the link in the show notes below to secure your spot.LinksFree Masterclass “Giving Feedback That Doesn’t Suck”Leadership MentoringDelegation PlaybookConnect with Me: ·         Join Weekly Email: https://campus.zenithjourney.com/mailinglist   ·         Website: https://www.zenithjourney.com/ ·         LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katepeardon/ ·         Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zenithjourney/
Losing my mars bars in Patagonia
Aug 7 2023
Losing my mars bars in Patagonia
I'm whisking you away (mentally!) to the awe-inspiring landscapes of Patagonia. Picture this: snow-capped peaks, icy blue lakes, and winds fierce enough to unseat a politician's toupee. Back in November 2019, I embarked on a thrilling hiking expedition through this wild wonderland. But Patagonia became more than a physical challenge; it became a masterclass in giving and receiving feedback.I vividly recall a moment when, struggling up a steep slope, a fellow hiker named Gary yelled, "Hey, buddy, your backpack's unzipped!" I had a choice: brush it off or embrace it. I chose the latter, preventing my precious emergency Mars Bars from spilling onto the trail. The lesson? Feedback, whether about a backpack or business strategy, is a gift. It's a chance to learn and grow.So, let's apply this. Why do we often get defensive in other aspects of life? Instead, let's be open. Listen, weigh the feedback, and decide. Exciting news: I'm hosting a free online masterclass, "How To Give Feedback that Doesn't Suck." Together, we'll uncover the secrets of fostering a feedback-rich culture for your team's success. Click below in the show notes to register. LinksFree Masterclass “Giving Feedback That Doesn’t Suck”Leadership MentoringDelegation PlaybookConnect with Me: ·         Join Weekly Email: https://campus.zenithjourney.com/mailinglist   ·         Website: https://www.zenithjourney.com/ ·         LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katepeardon/ ·         Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zenithjourney/
Lessons from my stroke
Jul 31 2023
Lessons from my stroke
Five years have passed since my Vertebral Artery Dissection and Minor Stroke, marking a significant milestone in my journey. While lying in the hospital bed, I set an audacious goal for myself—to complete another half-ironman triathlon in just six months. However, the reality of my condition quickly set in. Simple tasks like walking down a corridor or making a sandwich became monumental challenges. My usual activities, such as coaching CEOs, cycling, facilitating workshops, and playing the piano, were suddenly out of reach. It was a tough pill to swallow, and the disappointment in not achieving my unrealistic goal was real.This journey of healing post-stroke turned into a personal crash course on the power of feedback. Positive and constructive feedback can be incredibly motivating and build confidence even in the face of daunting challenges. On the other hand, poorly delivered feedback can tear a person down and erode their spirit. As a leader, I've realized that the words I use hold immense power; they can either build people up or leave them feeling diminished.Given the importance of effective communication, I want to help others learn the art of giving feedback that truly makes a difference. That's why I'm thrilled to invite you to a free masterclass titled "How to Give Feedback That Doesn't Suck." This interactive session, which will be held virtually for 60 minutes on August 21st or 22nd (depending on your time zone), is designed to equip you with the Feedback Formula—an essential tool for transforming feedback conversations into opportunities for growth and success.In the masterclass, we will not only delve into the theory of feedback but also put it into practice. Together, we'll workshop your feedback conversations, giving you hands-on experience and personal breakthroughs. My goal is to ensure you leave the session with tangible strategies you can apply immediately.As a special highlight, one lucky participant will have the opportunity to be coached by me in the hot seat segment. Witnessing this transformative feedback conversation will provide invaluable insights, helping you further refine your own feedback approach.So, let's take this step together on the journey of giving feedback that truly makes a difference. I promise to guide you through these conversations in a way that doesn't feel awkward or uncomfortable. Reserve your seat below.LinksFree Masterclass “Giving Feedback That Doesn’t Suck”Leadership MentoringDelegation PlaybookConnect with Me: ·         Join Weekly Email: https://campus.zenithjourney.com/mailinglist   ·         Website: https://www.zenithjourney.com/ ·         LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katepeardon/ ·         Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zenithjourney/
The Feedback Formula
Jul 24 2023
The Feedback Formula
I absolutely love travelling and have been fortunate enough to visit 38 countries and counting. Currently, I'm on an exciting adventure, but this time, there's a twist – I'm travelling with my five-month-old baby, Alba. It's a whole new experience that both excites and makes me nervous. I want her to grow up exploring the world, just like me, with a passion for continuous learning.Interestingly, being a leader and giving feedback share the same mix of scary-meets-exciting feelings. Like a nervous flyer going through airport security, the idea of giving feedback can be intimidating. You want to learn and help others grow, but the fear of the unknown can hold you back.Yet, I firmly believe that practice makes progress. That's why I'm inviting you to join my upcoming free masterclass on "how to give feedback that doesn't suck." It's scheduled for either August 21st or 22nd, depending on your time zone. By the end of the session, you'll be equipped with the Feedback Formula and ready to have those conversations you've been longing for. You'll even witness a live feedback exchange.Interested? You can find more details and secure your seat through the link in the show notes. Remember, giving feedback may seem scary, but it doesn't have to be. Let's learn together, and I'll help you gain the confidence to provide constructive feedback to your team.If you'd like to see how our European trip is going, follow me on Instagram (@ZenithJourney) or on LinkedIn (Kate Peardon). Thanks for tuning in, and I'm looking forward to having you at the "Giving Feedback That Doesn't Suck" masterclass!LinksFree Masterclass “Giving Feedback That Doesn’t Suck”Leadership MentoringDelegation PlaybookConnect with Me: ·         Join Weekly Email: https://campus.zenithjourney.com/mailinglist   ·         Website: https://www.zenithjourney.com/ ·         LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katepeardon/ ·         Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zenithjourney/
Business on the go: European Edition!
Jul 10 2023
Business on the go: European Edition!
I'm excited to share my upcoming journey to Europe with my husband and our five-month-old daughter. Over the next six weeks, while my husband takes parental leave, I'll be working remotely and exploring new places during the European summer. To ensure a smooth operation for my business while I'm away, I've implemented five key strategies. First, delegation plays a crucial role, and I've entrusted my team to handle tasks while maintaining client communication. Second, relying on automatic workflows for routine activities, leveraging technology to streamline processes. Third, navigating time zone differences using Calendly for client bookings and choose accommodations with suitable workspaces. Fourth, equipping myself with technology like my laptop, headphones, and international SIM card, ensuring reliable client calls and conducting podcast interviews. Finally, regular check-ins with my capable team keep me informed and allow me to provide guidance without micromanaging. Although unexpected challenges may arise, I invite you to join me on this experience and share any additional suggestions. Follow my journey on Instagram or LinkedIn and stay tuned for updates. Thanks for listening and wishing us luck!LinksDelegation Playbook https://campus.zenithjourney.com/playbook   Join Weekly Email: https://campus.zenithjourney.com/mailinglist   Connect with Me: ·         Join Weekly Email: https://campus.zenithjourney.com/mailinglist   ·         Website: https://www.zenithjourney.com/ ·         LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katepeardon/ ·         Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zenithjourney/
Balancing Business and Motherhood: The Half-Year Wrap Up
Jul 3 2023
Balancing Business and Motherhood: The Half-Year Wrap Up
Join Kate as she takes a thoughtful journey through the first six months of 2023, evaluating the highs and lows in both her professional and personal life. In this candid and introspective review, Kate reflects on her goals, the transformative experience of becoming a new mum, and the impact it had on her business while on maternity leave.With refreshing honesty, Kate delves into the triumphs and challenges she faced during this period, sharing the moments that exceeded her expectations and those that didn't quite go as planned.  With a keen eye for growth and improvement, Kate discusses the goals she set for herself, both personally and professionally, and examines her progress thus far.  From celebrating significant milestones to navigating unexpected obstacles, she offers valuable insights into what worked well and what went awry.Tune in to "Balancing Business and Motherhood: The Half-Year Wrap Up" to gain invaluable insights, practical advice, and inspiration from Kate's review of the first six months of 2023.LinksJoin Weekly Email: https://campus.zenithjourney.com/mailinglist   Book the Power Hour: https://calendly.com/zenithjourney/powerhour Connect with Me: ·         Join Weekly Email: https://campus.zenithjourney.com/mailinglist   ·         Website: https://www.zenithjourney.com/ ·         LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katepeardon/ ·         Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zenithjourney/
Mastering the Art of Feedback
Jun 12 2023
Mastering the Art of Feedback
Are you tired of avoiding those dreaded feedback conversations like they're a swarm of angry bees? Well, fear not! In this podcast episode, we dive deep into the world of feedback to help you become a confident and effective feedback giver.Feedback isn't just about formal performance conversations or receiving grades on tests. It can take various forms, such as verbal or written communication, body language, and more. We debunk common feedback myths and share real-life examples of both good and bad feedback scenarios, allowing you to learn from others' experiences.But that's not all! We're excited to invite you to a free virtual masterclass on giving feedback that doesn't suck. Join us on either June 26th or June 27th, depending on your time zone, for a deep dive into the feedback formula. In this masterclass, you'll have the opportunity to workshop your own feedback conversations and even participate in a hot seat coaching session with me. Plus, there are amazing prizes up for grabs for those who attend live!Imagine feeling more confident and capable as a leader, effortlessly navigating tough feedback conversations with grace. Picture yourself inspiring growth and driving positive change within your team through effective feedback. It's all within your reach, and we're here to show you the way.So, if you're ready to polish up your feedback skills and become a feedback rockstar, join us for this transformative masterclass. Secure your spot now at campus.zenithjourney.com/feedback or find the link in the show notes. We can't wait to see you there and help you elevate your feedback game. Remember, every improvement you make in feedback has a compounding effect, and you'll be equipped to tackle feedback conversations like a pro in no time. See you at the masterclass!LinksSave my seat at the “Giving Feedback (that doesn’t suck)” Masterclass campus.zenithjourney.com/feedbackBuy the Delegation Playbook www.zenithjourney.com/playbook Solo to CEO waitlist https://www.zenithjourney.com/solo-to-ceo-leadership-program/ Get access to the free “Time to Hire” mini-course www.zenithjourney.com/timetohire Buy the Rockstar Visuals Course (7 days to noteworthy notes and fabulous flipcharts, even if you think you can’t draw) https://campus.zenithjourney.com/rockstarvisuals  Connect with Me: ·         Join Weekly Email: https://campus.zenithjourney.com/mailinglist   ·         Website: https://www.zenithjourney.com/ ·         LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katepeardon/ ·         Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zenithjourney/
Steps to overcome Imposter Syndrome
May 10 2023
Steps to overcome Imposter Syndrome
Do you ever feel like a fraud at work? Do you doubt your success despite years of experience? You might be suffering from imposter syndrome, and you are not alone. Tom Hanks, Sheryl Sandberg, and Maya Angelou also experienced it. But how can you overcome it? In this episode, we explore the first steps to conquer imposter syndrome. We discuss how awareness is the first step in the AAA model, and we reveal the five types of imposter syndrome. Join us in our upcoming free webinar on imposter syndrome to learn how to recognise and overcome it.Sign up for Kate's free webinar Imposter Syndrome - tinyurl.com/zenithwebinar.LinksSing up to Imposter Syndrome Webinar tinyurl.com/zenithwebinar.Buy the Delegation Playbook www.zenithjourney.com/playbook Solo to CEO waitlist https://www.zenithjourney.com/solo-to-ceo-leadership-program/ Get access to the free “Time to Hire” mini-course www.zenithjourney.com/timetohire Buy the Rockstar Visuals Course (7 days to noteworthy notes and fabulous flipcharts, even if you think you can’t draw) https://campus.zenithjourney.com/rockstarvisuals  Connect with Me: ·         Join Weekly Email: https://campus.zenithjourney.com/mailinglist   ·         Website: https://www.zenithjourney.com/ ·         LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katepeardon/ ·         Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zenithjourney/ Referenceshttps://www.hcamag.com/au/specialisation/employment-law/90-of-female-employees-suffer-from-imposter-syndrome/406296#:~:text=From%20the%20report%2C%20it%20showed,25%25%20are%20aware%20of%20this.
Suffering from Imposter Syndrome?
May 3 2023
Suffering from Imposter Syndrome?
Have you ever had the feeling of inadequacy, not deserving your achievements, of being a fraud and worry you'll get found out? This is called Imposter Syndrome. It is a common experience, whether you're a new leader, solopreneur, senior manager, or a C-suite business leader. Whether you're just starting out in your career or a seasoned professional, Imposter Syndrome does not discriminate.In this podcast episode, Kate talks about Imposter Syndrome and the five different types that people can experience. She explains how Imposter Syndrome can manifest in one's career, including avoiding participation in meetings, overanalyzing actions, taking constructive feedback personally, and self-sabotaging.Show Notes:Introduction to Imposter Syndrome and how it affects people in all career levelsExplanation of the five different types of Imposter Syndrome - Perfectionist, Expert, Soloist, Natural Genius and the Superhuman and their characteristicsKate's personal experience with the "superhuman" Imposter SyndromeHow Imposter Syndrome can show up in the workplace, including avoiding opportunities and self-sabotagingThe importance of awareness and curiosity as the first step to overcoming Imposter SyndromeSign up for Kate's free webinar Imposter Syndrome - tinyurl.com/zenithwebinar.LinksSing up to Imposter Syndrome Webinar tinyurl.com/zenithwebinar.Buy the Delegation Playbook www.zenithjourney.com/playbook Solo to CEO waitlist https://www.zenithjourney.com/solo-to-ceo-leadership-program/ Get access to the free “Time to Hire” mini-course www.zenithjourney.com/timetohire Buy the Rockstar Visuals Course (7 days to noteworthy notes and fabulous flipcharts, even if you think you can’t draw) https://campus.zenithjourney.com/rockstarvisuals  Connect with Me: ·         Join Weekly Email: https://campus.zenithjourney.com/mailinglist   ·         Website: https://www.zenithjourney.com/ ·         LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katepeardon/ ·         Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/zenithjourney/