Watch our conversation on YouTube.Alan Weiss returns to the podcast this week, for the third time, to (metaphorically) poke me in the eye again.In this conversation, we riff on:Speedy workshop designHow Alan turns an idea into an offer almost immediatelyHow consultants need to focus on helping their clients innovate, and fail fastHow consultants should market now (vs. 5 years ago)Interactions between AI and Humans, what works?The ageing population in the workforce and how to manage itConnect with thousands of facilitators from all over the world in our free Facebook group called The Flipchart:    / firsttimefacilitator  Love Alan’s shares? Contact him and let him know!Alan Weiss on LinkedInLearn more about the host, Leanne Hughes' work at https://www.leannehughes.comGrab Leanne’s book, The 2-Hour Workshop Blueprint: https://2hourwork.shopAlan ResourcesAlan Weiss's Website: This is the primary source for accessing all of Alan Weiss's content, books, and workshops. Monday Morning Memo: This is a regular communication from Alan that provides insights and advice, likely a valuable resource for listeners interested in regular updates from him.A Minute with Alan: A series of one-minute videos where Alan Weiss shares quick insights. These videos are beneficial for viewers looking for short, impactful advice.Upcoming Workshops and Zoom Sessions: Specifically, any current or upcoming workshops or sessions that Alan mentioned during the interview, like his $100 workshop aimed at adding value for existing and prospective clients. Support the show

Today, I'm joined by Lisa Leong, a broadcaster, author, and facilitator. Watch us chat on YouTube.Her superpowers, which you'll hear very clearly in this episode, are curiosity and  creativity.She's a former IP, technology, and wine lawyer—yes, that's actually a thing. She caught the radio bug in 2001, which is exactly why I brought her on the show. Wedelve into the parallels between having talk-back radio and getting listeners to call in to hosting workshops and being truly present. We also talk about energy, meeting the room where it's at, and the best ways to prepare to be spontaneous—an awesome oxymoron, right? And Lisa shares how she does this, even down to the detail, like her unique research approach, which includes a bit of LinkedIn stalking. Lisa draws on her unique experiences, combined with design thinking and mindfulness practices, to bring a fresh approach to conversations and connection.She presents on ABC Radio Melbourne on Sundays and also hosts 'This Working Life' on ABC Radio National, which is an awesome show. Connect with Lisa LeongLisa Leong on LinkedInLisa Leong on InstagramLisa's profile on ABC RadioWhy you can't miss this episodeIt's not every day you get to hear from someone who's mastered the art of engaging people through radio, law, and facilitation. Lisa's stories are not just inspiring—they're packed with actionable tips you can use to level up your facilitation game. Plus, her take on mindfulness and presence is a game-changer for anyone looking to connect more deeply with their audience.Memorable Quotes:"Jumping into facilitation was like jumping into a whole new world with both feet. Scary, but thrilling!""You don't have to be a Zen master to make mindfulness work for you in workshops.""Inclusivity isn't just nice to have; it's a must-have for unforgettable workshops.""Preparation meets improvisation—that's where the magic happens."Resources Mentioned:Lisa's Favorite Mindfulness Apps"The Skilled Facilitator" by Roger SchwarzSupport the show

In the First Time Facilitator podcast, host Leanne Hughes introduces guest Sally Prosser, a voice and confidence coach.We riff on the concept of 'breveloquence', a portmanteau of brevity and eloquence, and how they aim to develop and use this tool in verbal and written forms.We also take you behind the scenes of our new workshop called Get to the Point, which we're co-hosting in Brisbane on 16 April 2024.Find out more about the Brisbane workshop and grab your ticket here.Conversation time-stamps00:31 The Importance of Brevity in Communication02:17 The Power of Storytelling and Brevity02:59 The Art of Asking Questions03:43 The Value of Silence and Pausing04:14 The Power of Personal Stories04:40 The Role of Confidence in Communication05:07 The Importance of Setting Rules in Communication05:27 The Excitement of Co-Facilitating06:05 What to Expect in the 'Get to the Point' Workshop07:35 Closing Remarks and Workshop DetailsAbout today's guest: Sally ProsserSally helps you fire-up your voice so you can share your light with the world.Her background as a TV reporter, company spokesperson and speech & drama teacher gives her the ideal skill set to work with professionals, biz owners and corporate teams on -⭐ Building confidence🥊 Combating a fear of public speaking❤ Producing a warm, trustworthy voice🎤 Speaking with clarity and impact🎥 Media Awareness and Spokesperson TrainingSupport the show

In today's conversation, Phil Woods from Catalyst Strategy shares his journey from a legal career to becoming an independent strategy and team development consultant.Watch our conversation on YouTube.Phil outlines how he uses frameworks to guide organisations through transformation, draws on his command and activator strengths for maximum impact, and explains the importance of managing energy in workshops. From strategic ideation to facilitating self-realisations, Phil offers valuable insights into his facilitation style and how he prioritises the participant experience. Phil delivers impactful strategy and positive, strengths-orientated team transformation for a diverse mix of clients in Australia and abroad.  He has a practical, no-nonsense style leveraging decades of real-world experience, and brings contagious energy and authentic passion to his client collaborations.Conversation prompts:Introduction and WelcomePhil Woods: A Journey Through Career PhasesThe Power of Engaging Teams and Co-Creating Strategy The Art of Making Workshops EngagingBalancing Facilitation and Self-Discovery The Role of Powerful Questions in FacilitationBringing the X Factor into WorkshopsLeveraging Strengths in Facilitation Maintaining Energy and Engagement in Workshops Final Thoughts and Advice for First-Time FacilitatorsConnect with Phil WoodsConnect with Phil Woods on LinkedInVisit his website: Catalyst StrategyOther things mentioned:2024 State of Facilitation report from Session LabSupport the show

Tune in to discover how to design fast and deliver strong without the stress...using Chat GPT!In this episode, host Leanne Hughes discusses five ways she uses chat GPT to improve and enhance her workshop experiences and delivery. She shares examples of how she uses Chat GPT for image creation, generating questions, creating case studies, generating frameworks, and coming up with attractive titles for her workshops. You'll also hear some personal updates and experiences related to her work.How are you using it to supercharge your workshop design?Let us know in The FlipchartWant Leanne's support for 30 days? Join Leanne on DemandGrab her book, The 2-Hour Workshop Blueprint: Design Fast. Deliver Strong. Without Stress.Support the show

Leanne Hughes’ 2023 Annual Report podcast/video episode, where I share my favourite UNOFFICIAL business metrics, and quarter by quarter highlights/lessons learnt.Some of my unofficial metrics include:📈 # of countries visited📈 Clients I loved partnering with📈 New topics explored📈 Messages about the book and its impact 📈 How often did I wake up, look at my calendar and get excited about the day?What unofficial metrics do you like to report on at the end of the year?Offers launched:Book: The 2-Hour Workshop BlueprintSentient StrategyLeanne Hughes’ Red Carpet ExperienceLeanne on DemandSupport the show

Watch our conversation on YouTube!My experience with luck has been, you can actually optimize for luck. So, what is this got to do with workshops and facilitation and hosting group events? I think it has a lot to do with it. If your goal is next year to create more workshops, to work with really great clients, to be more aligned with the work that you do-- yhere's an element of intentionality around that and making a decision and making a choice. And I'm currently going through that at the moment. Today, we’re joined by Dr. Christian Busch, the author of the book “The Serendipity Mindset: The Art and Science of Creating Good Luck”. He’s the Director of Global Economy Program at New York University’s Center for Global Affairs where he teaches on purpose-driven leadership, impact, entrepreneurship, innovation, and emerging markets. He’s been featured on many TEDx Talks. I recently watched one of the TEDx Talks he was in, and it was so fantastic; I’ve decided to invite him here. Join me as we learn from what Christian has to share today.  In this conversation, you’ll hear Dr. Christian discuss:What it actually means to cultivate a serendipity mindsetThe difference between blind luck and smart luckThe fear of missing outThe contrast between planning and being open to opportunitiesThe dynamics between being an introvert and an extrovertHow introverts can cultivate more serendipity in their lifeRapid Round Conversation moments:The difference between blind luck and smart luck How to balance FOMO while cultivating serendipity in your life -- the hook strategy It’s great to have a milestone but why would you limit yourself to that?How to bring serendipity as a mindset in your day-to-dayCultivating serendipity when you’re an introvertConnect with Dr. Christian Busch here:Dr. Christian’s websiteDr. Christian on LinkedInDr. Christian on Twitter Rapid Round Recommendations:Book: “Man’s Search for Meaning” by Viktor E. FranklTool: HeadspaceSong: “Beautiful Day” by U2Quote: “We cannot always control the situation we’re in, but we can always control our response to it.” – Viktor E. FranklConnect with Leanne Hughes on all the platforms:LinkedInInstagramTwitterFor suggestions, collaborations and queries, email me hello@leannehughes.com. Support this podcast by subscribing and leaving a review, it would mean a lot!Thanks for being here. See you next week.Support the show

How do you personally POWER YOURSELF UP to host a workshop when you're sleep deprived? That's the topic Leanne riffs off in this solo episode, where she shares ideas on:* * Insights from her personal story on powering up after facing challenges like jet lag and disrupted routines.* How personal energy significantly impacts workshop facilitation and the need to show up as your best self.* Exploring various power-up routines, including environment shifts, the magic of music, and tailored playlists for different workshop vibes.* Quick strategies for resetting and refocusing, such as gratitude practices, journaling, and the benefits of movement.Join Leanne's free community on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/firsttimefacilitatorGrab her book, The 2-Hour Workshop Blueprint: https://2hourwork.shopSupport the show

Welcome back to another episode with your host, Leanne Hughes. I received a listener question from my friend, Juraj Holub and thought I'd share my thoughts on the show.Here's the question:I'm thinking about the flow of a session.Let me share more details. Goal: I'd like the workshop participants to practice and learn "how to open a presentation."Option A:- Participants go first and deliver their opening to their current best capabilities. - We debrief each opening (What went well? What could be improved?)- After that, I'll share and add additional tips on how to best open a presentation.Option B:- We start with a group brainstorming about the best ways to open a presentation.- Only then do participants get the chance to step on stage and deliver their opening.- We debrief each openingWhat are your thoughts?What factors would you consider in your response?Resources Mentioned:The Two Hour Workshop Blueprint (Leanne Hughes)Slido (Polling App)Remote People (Juraj's  New Business)Connect with JurajConnect with Leanne:Instagram: @LeanneHughesLinkedIn: [Leanne Hughes's LinkedIn]Email: hello@leannehughes.comClosing Thoughts:Leanne encourages listeners to stay subscribed for upcoming episodes, and welcomes feedback and questions through her social media and email.Support the show

What does it mean to truly have the character of a leader? Is culture really something we can influence in an organisation? Watch our conversation on YouTube!Shane Hatton is an author, trainer, coach, and speaker who is passionate about developing remarkable leaders and cultures. He works with organizations to close the leadership gap between mid and senior level leaders. Aside from being the author of the books “Let’s Talk Culture – The Conversations You Need to Create the Team You Want” and “Lead The Room – Communicate a Message That Counts in Moments That Matter”, Shane is also a Gallup Certified Strengths Coach, a member of the Forbes Global Coaches Council, and is the Founder of the People Leaders Network. I met Shane on the Clubhouse app, where we had various conversations around various topics, but it was when I attended his book launch earlier this year in Sydney that we finally got to meet in real life. In this conversation, you’ll hear Shane discuss:His book, “Let’s Talk Culture – The Conversations You Need to Create the Team You Want”The insights of culturePractical things leaders can do to build and reinforce their cultureHis personal insights on how he handles his energyHow he manages the contrast of being the person in front of the room and while also thriving behind the scenesRapid Round Connect with Shane Hatton here:Shane’s websiteShane on InstagramShane on FacebookShane on TwitterShane on LinkedInShane on YouTubeRapid Round Recommendations:Book: The Moment of Lift by Melinda GatesTool/App: ClickUpSong: Bohemian Rhapsody by QueenQuote: “The moment we begin to think we have all the answers, we forget all the questions.” – Madeleine L’EngleQuote: “You can tell whether a man is clever by his answers. You can tell whether a man is wise by his questions.” – Naguib MahfouzConnect with Leanne Hughes on all the platforms:LinkedInInstagramTwitterFor suggestions, collaborations and queries, email me hello@leannehughes.com. Support this podcast by subscribing and leaving a review, it would mean a lot!Thanks for being here. See you next week.Support the show

Welcome to another episode of the First Time Facilitator podcast, where your host, Leanne Hughes, goes solo, diving deep into the Keep section of the SPARK framework, a crucial element of her book, "The Two Hour Workshop Blueprint," now available on Audible.Key Takeaways:Continuous Improvement: Learn about the importance of reflecting on what worked well in your past workshops and what didn't, to continuously improve and design more effectively for future sessions.Personal Organisation: Leanne shares her personal system of organising facilitator materialsLeveraging the Keep Method: Understand the intricacies of the Keep method in workshop desigSmart Resource Management: Learn about innovative ways to manage your resources, including using cloud services, books, and Post-it notes, to bookmark and quickly access your favorite workshop activities.Efficient Post-Workshop Practices: Find out why sending workshop show notes within 24 hours is crucial, and learn a practical approach to preparing and disseminating these resources promptly.Building a Resource Bank: Learn how to proactively compile and categorize a variety of resources, from books and podcasts to videos and articles, for easy access and reference.Support the show

Can you use space to create contrast, even in a virtual call? Today’s guest proves that you can!We have an absolute world-leader in the field of nonverbal communication joining us on the show this week, Michael Grinder.Michael has over 40 years of experience training thousands of groups. Known as the pioneer of nonverbal communication, Michael helps executives and educators assess people more accurately, connect with others more deeply, and build their charisma.We explore how to use his famous model, the House of Communication in our workshops.During this conversation, I picked up so many incredibly nuanced things you can do to boost the clarity of my communication in both virtual and face-to-face workshop environments.The beauty of this conversation is how Michael talks about the large and the small, the micro and the macro, the philosophy around what you do, and then the micro: what type of chair you need, in order to do that.We also delve into using space, and how to segment space within our environments.About today’s guest: Michael GrinderMichael Grinder has over 40 years of experience training thousands of groups. Known as the pioneer of nonverbal communication, Michael helps executives and educators assess people more accurately, connect with others more deeply, and build their charisma.Two well-known experts personally trained Michael in the field of communication: Carl Rogers, the father of humanistic psychology, and Michael’s brother, Dr. John Grinder, co-founder of Neuro-Linguistic Programming. Over his career, Michael has written 14 books, which have been translated into seven languages. He’s a sought-after speaker for national and international events and has presented on seven continents. Some of Michael’s additional achievements include:National Director of NLP for EducationTeacher of the year at three different schools in California, Washington, and Oregon.Recipient of the 2019 DACH “Mediator of the Year.”Today, Michael continues to train individuals and companies, and volunteers with community organizations. He lives in Washington State with Gail, the love of his life.In this episode you will learn:Importance of non-verbal elements in virtual workshopTips to better utilise our voice in a workshopHow you can “block/anchor” elements of the room during face-to-face and virtual workshopsHow to be confident during in-person and online workshops How to use your hands effectively, anytime you communicateThe difference between Intellectual safety vs. Emotional safety ABC's of conveying a message for in-person or virtual facilitationResources mentioned in the show:Learn more about Michael Grinder on his website5 Circles of HumannessLearn more about non-verbal communications tips by Michael Grinder on House of CommunicationsConnect with Michael Grinder on LinkedInWatch more non-verbal communications tips on Michael’s YouTube channelWatch the video!Support the show

In this solo episode, host Leanne Hughes reflects on the world of event planning, MCing, and the unforeseen challenges that can arise during a charity event.Watch the YouTube videoHighlights:Committee Dynamics: The initial stages of planning, the process of narrowing down nominees, and how this committee stood out from typical group projects.Communication Platforms: The value of asynchronous communication, the prominence of WhatsApp, and the advantages of immediate messaging.Roles & Responsibilities: Discovering personal strengths, navigating through responsibilities, and how to tweak and adjust pre-existing templates.Co-MCing Insights: Splitting the MC role, understanding the environment, ensuring audience engagement, and the importance of staying organized.Challenges Faced: Unexpected hurdles like potential noise disruptions, technical difficulties, and overlooked details. How adaptability and quick thinking made the difference.Event Dynamics: Balancing philanthropy with entertainment. Creating a unique event atmosphere likened to "philanthropy meets Shark Tank meets a cocktail party."The Power of Introductions: How adding humor and connection can set the tone for the event and engage attendees.Audience Engagement: Encouraging interaction, making connections, and using humor to lighten the mood.Mentions:Organisations: Altru, Indigenous Futures Foundation, and What Ability. 10x10 PhilanthropyKey Takeaways:Preparation is Key: Ensuring you're fully prepped not just for your role but also for potential challenges that could arise.Environment Matters: Recognizing the significance of being aware of the surroundings and adjusting accordingly.Open Communication: Ensuring there's clear communication between all key players, like co-hosts or other committee members.Engage & Interact: How engaging your audience and encouraging interaction can change the dynamic of an event.Support the show

Join host Leanne Hughes as she delves deep into the mind of a facilitator with guests John Norcross and Tricia Conyers from the "Every Little Model" podcast, this episode offers a genuine conversation exploring the intricacies of facilitation, sharing personal experiences, challenges, and models that guide their work.Watch the conversation on YouTube.What You Will Learn:The journey of becoming a facilitator: How John and Tricia began leading group conversations and meetings.The multifaceted roles in a workshop: From mindfulness to handling logistical aspects like air conditioning and room design.Key facilitation models:Leanne's "SPARK Framework" from The Two-Hour Workshop BlueprintTricia's "Nine Dimensions of Engagement" emphasising the power of contrast in facilitation activities and debriefs.The art of balancing: How to juggle structure and flexibility in facilitation.John's experience emphasizing the importance of adapting to group needs rather than rigidly sticking to a process.About Our Guests:John NorcrossJohn is a change leadership professional who works at the intersection of human centered design, organizational effectiveness, strategy, and implementation. His 25+ years in consulting have taken him from Canada, to the UK, South America, the Caribbean, and to the US working across a range of industries, from energy and chemicals to life sciences and the public sector. John spent over a decade with Evolve Partners, an implementation consultancy, as a geography leader and as SVP for Accounts. He also co-founded a boutique change agency, BridgeOne LLC. Over the last couple of years, he has volunteered as a community change agent in Wisconsin, focused on advocating for public schools as well as diversity and inclusion efforts. He is also the co-host of the Every Little Model podcast, which focuses on exploring the models and frameworks we use to make sense of our organization and our world. Connect with John Norcross on LinkedInTricia ConyersTricia Conyers is a leadership coach, facilitator, trainer, and podcaster. She helps individuals and teams to unlock their full potential and achieve breakthrough results. Through a combination of individual coaching, hybrid professional development programs, facilitated in-person experiential events, and her Every Little Model podcast, she helps leaders to think differently, recognize and leverage leadership moments, and develop the confidence and capabilities they need to succeed in today’s fast-paced business world. Learn more about Tricia’s work here https://islandinspirations.co/Connect with Tricia on LinkedInCheck out her online program: Engagement Matters To continue the conversation, join over 2,200 global facilitators in the free Facebook group, "The Flip Chart". Reach out to Leanne on LinkedIn or via email at hello@leannehughes.com. Enjoy the episode!Support the show

How do you design fast? You create an underpinning framework! In today's episode, host Leanne Hughes shares why she loves frameworks SO MUCH, and some ideas on how to create your own.Watch the video on YouTube.Key TakeawaysGift Wrapping Information: Organising and packaging information in a way that's digestible and actionable.Overcoming Fears: You don't need a PhD or decades of experience to create a useful framework.Case Study - Pivot by Jenny Blake: A framework for career decision-making featuring Plant, Scan, Pilot, and Launch.Creating Your Framework: The story behind The 2-Hour Workshop Blueprint book and the SPARK framework (Setup, Power-up, Activities, Review, Keep) for workshop design.The Utility of Frameworks: Beyond business and personal development, frameworks can serve as a general tool for clarity in any context.How to Create Your Own Framework: Practical tips, including using brainstorming buddies like ChatGPT.Mentioned Resources"The Two-Hour Workshop Blueprint" (Book)"Pivot" by Jenny BlakeChatGPT"The Power of the 2 x 2 Matrix  (Book)Alan Weiss’s Framework for Sentient StrategyListener ChallengeAre you currently using frameworks in your work or life? Do you find them helpful? If you haven't tried, take a moment to think about how a framework could help in your current projects. Share your thoughts or your own frameworks with Leanne @leannehughesJoin us for more insightful discussions and practical advice on future episodes. Subscribe now, so you don't miss out!Support the show

I love jumping on The Flipchart Facebook group to see where members are hosting their workshops. My guest today, Nancy Mamolejo, hosts her workshops overlooking the Golden Gate bridge, and she also brings amazing ideas and energy into her sessions, including her emotional support kit.Tune in today, to hear us discuss:Creating a Sense of Belonging in WorkshopsStrategies and tools to foster an environment where everyone feels like they are a valued part of the conversation.Going Beyond 'Tick and Flick'Delving deeper than superficial diversity initiatives and truly embedding inclusive practices in the organization.Standing in Your ValueRecognizing and appreciating your unique contribution to the workspace and the importance of every individual's perspective.Workshop Structure and Participant AwarenessInsights into how Nancy designs her sessions to be most effective and how she ensures she remains attuned to participants' needs and responses.Embracing Self-Worth and BelongingThe transformative realization that "I belong here" and understanding the significance of self-worth in professional settings.About today's guest: Nancy Marmolejo is passionate about helping organizations “walk their DEI talk” by moving them from abstract theory to people-to-people interactions. Using tools such as the DiSC Assessment, communication skills training, and leadership development models, she creates a safe space for people to transform on personal and professional levels. With over 10,000 hours of experience as a coach and facilitator, her mission is to amplify the voices of underrepresented groups in the workplace, and to transform workplace culture so belonging and inclusion are the norm for all.Find out more by going to TalentAndGenius.comConnect with Nancy on LinkedInSupport the show

As you know, I'm here to help you design fast, deliver strong without stress. That's hat is in the form of workshops, right? But today I'm going to be talking about designing life in general.I'm celebrating and reflecting because I turn 40 this Thursday. What an honour: Every day above ground is a great day.Watch the YouTube recording!Disclaimer: I'm not an Olympic gold medalist. I haven't climbed Everest.  I'm just a type of person who likes having a crack at life, looking for cool opportunities  and  treating life as an experiment. And so I wanted to share some ideas today that reflect how I think about life design.I've summarised these in Leanne's 12 Rules for Life... And what I'm excited about is in two decades, or even in two weeks, I might prove my own rules wrong. The beauty of life is in its ever-evolving nature. Are you approaching a watershed moment in your life, whether it's a milestone, you've had a significant life change? It might be nice for you create your own 12 rules! How do you like to see the world? Here are a sneak peak of my 12 Rules for Life:We’re all gonna die: A reminder of our impermanence.If you're feeling like a fish out of water, find a new pond: Adaptability is key.Shake hands with your heroes, they probably have sweaty palms, too: We’re all human at the end of the day.There is no glass ceiling: Limitations are often self-imposed.Your clicking reveals your calling: Listen to what resonates with you.Live regionally, work globally: Embrace the vast opportunities the world offers.Be like Tom Cruise in the moments that matter: Show up and give it your best.Find the pattern interrupter in your life: Break monotonies and spark creativity.If you don’t have permission, get permission: Advocate for your own desires and goals.Share your work in public: Be open and transparent in your endeavors.Double click everyday moments: Find depth in daily occurrences.Real wealth is discretionary time (Alan Weiss): Time is our most valuable resource.What do you think? Do any of these rules resonate with you? Let me know! Tag me on socials, send me a message, or email hello@leannehughes.comLinks and Resources:Don Miller’s Hero on a MissionKathy Oneto: Sustainable AmbitionJenny Blake: Free TimeAlan WeissLive in the regions! Check out Move to MoreSupport the show

In today's episode, I'm delighted to introduce our guest, Jeff Skipper. Jeff and I have been colleagues for the past couple of years, sharing insights in our growth cycle mastermind group. We've connected virtually every two weeks and had the pleasure of meeting in person during a memorable gathering in Hawaii, part of Alan Weiss's community.About Jeff SkipperJeff Skipper is a recognised expert in accelerating change with over 25 years of experience. He has worked with renowned clients such as IBM, Suncor, Goldman Sachs, and the Salvation Army, helping them achieve remarkable results in their strategic transformation efforts by infusing complex change with a motivating mission.Jeff possesses a unique talent for creating impactful activities and workshops. He excels at breaking down complex challenges and reengineering them into practical solutions. Exciting news for our listeners, Jeff is currently working on a workshop booklet that will feature his top 30 change activities.During our conversation, we delve into the essential aspects of driving and leading change. Jeff underscores the significance of visible leadership, especially in today's virtual landscape where meaningful connections can be a challenge. We also explore opportunities for meaningful in-person connections and how they contribute to the success of change initiatives.Jeff is the author of the insightful book, "Dancing with Disruption." In this podcast episode, you'll learn:The role of emotions in leading changePractical strategies for engaging people during times of disruption.How leaders can inspire trust and commitment in their teamsThe significance of consistency in messaging,The contagious nature of both resistance and enthusiasm in organisational change.Quotes from the Episode:"It's hard to generate that level of excitement until you're out there, shaking hands with people, patting them on the back, and telling them they're doing a good job.""Even if your organization's life depends on it, not everyone's gonna get on board. So what do you need to do?""It's important to give people space to connect. When we have an hour to just talk and unpack things, that's where we really start to connect and build levels of trust.""You're trying to engage people on an emotional level. Yes, I need to help them build new competencies to navigate a change, but I'm trying to keep a positive viewpoint around what's going to happen.""If I dip my toe in the water, it's going to be safe. Again, the role of leaders is to create that safety for people."Links and Resources:Jeff Skipper's WebsiteJeff Skipper's Book: "Dancing with Disruption"Connect with Jeff Skipper on LinkedInSupport the show

In today's episode, we explore the intricate emotions that facilitators experience right before a workshop – a whirlwind of excitement, nerves, and anticipation. My guest today is the award-winning TV journalist from the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, Sophie Scott OAM. Sophie's multi-faceted career has transitioned her from a household face on TV to a well-renowned speaker and educator, with a prime focus on mental health. Dive into our conversation as we unravel Sophie's personal journey, discover her pre-workshop routines, and delve deep into her experience with burnout. It's a candid, open conversation about the realities of mental well-being, the importance of self-care, and the pivotal role that authentic communication plays in our lives.What You Will Learn:Sophie's transition from a journalist to an advocate for mental well-being and a sought-after speaker.The personal story of Sophie's encounter with burnout, which she faced while in the public eye.The "Spotlight Effect" – A mechanism to center oneself and focus on the audience while facilitating.Physical Reactions to Anxiety: Even when well-prepared, your body might still show signs of anxiety, but recognizing these signs and continuing to move forward can be beneficial.Facilitation vs. Journalism: Both roles involve extracting information and insight, and the techniques used in journalism can apply to facilitation.Tips and ideas on how to host engaging panels or events.About Sophie Scott OAMIn addition to an extensive career as an award-winning medical TV journalist for the Australian Broadcasting Corporation, Sophie is a professional speaker and educator with expertise in mental health.She has an extensive presence on social media, has been an invited speaker at the World Congress on Positive Psychology, has written two books (Live a Longer Life (ABC Books) and RoadTesting Happiness (Harper Collins), and has won major awards for her journalism and medical reporting including a prestigious Eureka AwardSophie’s mission is to help people help themselves, using evidence-based science and her own personal journey.She is an ambassador for Bowel Cancer Australia, Pain Australia and is a patient reviewer for the British Medical Journal.Sophie is a highly sought-after keynote speaker on topics such as preventing burnout, managing your mental well-being during times of change, the science of high-performance habits, and how to use neuroscience to stick to new habits and overcome unwanted ones.Her talks and workshops help people take better care of their mental health through science-backed techniques so they can build emotional resilience, maximise their potential and thrive at work and at home.Links and Resources:Sophie Scott's Website - A central hub where you can find all of Sophie's content, including links to her social media platforms.Insight Timer and Balance App: These apps are mentioned in the conversation, suggesting they might be tools for personalization or well-being.Continue the conversation when the show is over, join The Flipchart free group on FacebookMy new book is out: The 2-Hour Workshop Blueprint: Design Fast. Deliver Strong. Without Stress.Grab it, then Write an Amazon review!Support the show

In today's episode, I chat with Brendon Baker, a change leader I've had the pleasure of knowing for over a year and a half. Our professional relationship has grown from friendtorshop to active collaboration. We discuss the core of his workshops, how to deliver real value, and his personal experiences with business growth.About Brendon Baker:Brendon is dedicated to helping Change Leaders achieve tangible results. He's been at the helm of over $10 Billion in projects and programs, and from these ventures, he's gathered key insights:Change is tough, so it needs to be worth the effort.Simple solutions often yield the best results.Traditional methods and 'best practices' don't always translate well into practical situations.Brendon is the author of "Valuable Change" and "Creating High Value PMOs". He lives outside of Canberra, Australia.What you'll learn:The story behind Brendan Baker's business growth and his journey towards helping leaders.The significance of understanding the "reality" in corporate scenarios.The essence and application of workshops in creating change.Perception of Last-minute Work: Reframing that last-minute preparation might be seen as scrappy or inadequate. The value of being in communities to find your next career role model.Quotes from the episode:"I've come to call that a point of arrogance... they think that what they're delivering is right and ultimately they don't know.""If you focus on what truly needs to matter, then you don't have to do as much work and you can focus on shifting the dial.""Workshops are for teaching people new things and for collaboratively solving problems."Join us as we navigate the fascinating world of leadership, transformation, and the intricacies of creating meaningful change with Brendon Baker.Connect with BrendonVisit Brendon’s websiteConnect with Brendon Baker on LinkedInSupport the show