Talking Toughness
Hosted by Dr John Perry and Doug Strycharczyk, Talking Toughness will centre on the Mental Toughness concept and its application in the worlds of sport, education, business, public administration, social mobility and health.
info_outline
Talking Toughness with Jake White (Part Three)
06/15/2025
Talking Toughness with Jake White (Part Three)
Talking Toughness with Jake White (Part Three) 🏉 The concluding part of our episode with Jake White. We assure you that this will be one of the most engaging and valuable podcasts we've recorded. Jake White gained recognition as the coach of the Springboks Rugby Union team that triumphed in the 2007 Rugby World Cup. He has coached at the highest levels worldwide, including in Japan, Australia (Brumbies), South Africa (Sharks), Tonga, and France (Montpellier) — and now he returns to South Africa with the Bulls. His experience encompasses work with a variety of cultures. Jake possesses a grounded understanding of mental toughness and recognises its significance in his team’s success. He offers valuable leadership insights that are relevant across various fields, not limited to sports. Additionally, he is deeply passionate about youth development. Jake White takes a comprehensive approach to individual and cultural development within teams, which is both refreshing and illuminating. There is much valuable learning being shared here. You can find part three and the previous episodes using the links below.
/episode/index/show/e68355d9-7343-4106-9702-b1c58d4612ba/id/36999645
info_outline
Talking Toughness with Jake White (Part Two)
06/08/2025
Talking Toughness with Jake White (Part Two)
Talking Toughness with Jake White (Part Two). Our guest for these webinars is Jake White. We assure you that this will be one of the most engaging and valuable podcasts we've recorded. Jake White gained recognition as the coach of the Springboks Rugby Union team that triumphed in the 2007 Rugby World Cup. He has coached at the highest levels worldwide, including in Japan, Australia (Brumbies), South Africa (Sharks), Tonga, and France (Montpellier)- and now he returns to South Africa with the Bulls. His experience encompasses working with a variety of cultures. Jake possesses a grounded understanding of mental toughness and recognises its significance in his team’s success. He offers valuable leadership insights relevant across various fields, not limited to sports. Additionally, he is deeply passionate about youth development. Jake White takes a comprehensive approach to individual and cultural development within teams, which is both refreshing and illuminating. There is much valuable learning being shared here.
/episode/index/show/e68355d9-7343-4106-9702-b1c58d4612ba/id/36893310
info_outline
Talking Toughness with Jake White (Part One)
06/01/2025
Talking Toughness with Jake White (Part One)
Our guest for these webinars is Jake White. We can promise that this is one of the most interesting and useful podcasts that we have recorded. Jake White achieved a degree of fame as the coach of the Springboks Rugby Union team that won the 2007 Rugby World Cup. Since he has coached at the highest level around the globe – in Japan, Australia (Brumbies), South Africa (Sharks), Tonga, and France (Montpellier)- and now back in South Africa with the Bulls. He has worked with and managed a multiplicity of cultures. And he has a very down-to-earth understanding of mental toughness and its importance in the success of all his teams. He has useful insights into leadership that apply to all sectors, not just sport. He also has a deep interest in and passion for the development of young people. Jake White adopts a “big picture” view on individual development and its relationship with team and cultural development, which is both refreshing and insightful. There is a lot of learning being shared here. Part one of three episodes.
/episode/index/show/e68355d9-7343-4106-9702-b1c58d4612ba/id/36790735
info_outline
Talking Toughness with Kirstin Davis and Euan Woolley (Part Two)
05/12/2025
Talking Toughness with Kirstin Davis and Euan Woolley (Part Two)
In Part 2 of our podcast with Kirstin Davis and Euan Woolley, we are talking 'Mental Toughness, Resilience, Performance and... Wellbeing'. Only a decade ago, psychometrics were mainly used to identify the most productive and to explore how productivity could be enhanced. Today, we look at this through the lens of 'wellbeing'. "I wrote a book about 10 years ago on sports psychology, and it was all about performance. The second edition came out this year, and a lot of it is about 'wellbeing'." Prof. John Perry Welcome to Part 2 of our show. Listen, learn, and enjoy.
/episode/index/show/e68355d9-7343-4106-9702-b1c58d4612ba/id/36509785
info_outline
Talking Toughness with Kirstin Davis and Euan Woolley (Part One)
05/06/2025
Talking Toughness with Kirstin Davis and Euan Woolley (Part One)
What makes a good, reliable psychometric? In this podcast, Kirstin Davis and Euan Woolley, experts in the use of psychometric measures, explore, with Doug and John, the field of psychometrics and why users and clients should be increasingly wary. The use of Psychometrics continues to grow in popularity. They are used in a variety of settings, such as workplaces, education, and coaching. But not all psychometrics meet the basic requirements for a good psychometric. And not all psychometrics are used properly. They are becoming popular, but is a popular assessment necessarily the right measure for the purpose at hand? Understood and used properly, they can provide a great deal of valuable information. They can be incredibly cost-effective. For example, using psychometrics in a coaching session might mean you can do more productive work and move people forward much more quickly, rather than spending a lot of time in sessions finding out the same information. "By definition, a psychometric test should be scientifically rigorous, and if it has never actually been scientifically tested, then it really doesn't meet the criteria to be called a 'psychometric'." - Prof. John Perry Welcome to Part One of this podcast. Listen, learn, and enjoy.
/episode/index/show/e68355d9-7343-4106-9702-b1c58d4612ba/id/36412130
info_outline
Talking Toughness with Nathan Cornwell (Part Two)
03/03/2025
Talking Toughness with Nathan Cornwell (Part Two)
In part two of this podcast with Nathan Cornwell, we look at employability through the lens of the Mental Toughness framework. Understanding your mental toughness profile is crucial when navigating transitions, especially when moving to another country, immersing oneself in a new culture and taking on a new job. Transition requires adaptability, resilience, and a positive mindset. Reframing challenges as opportunities for growth, building strong support networks, and maintaining a positive outlook helps to succeed despite initial difficulties. By cultivating their mental toughness, individuals can successfully transition to a new job in a foreign country, thrive in the new culture, and emerge stronger and more confident, both personally and professionally. Listen and learn.
/episode/index/show/e68355d9-7343-4106-9702-b1c58d4612ba/id/35482970
info_outline
Talking Toughness with Nathan Cornwell (Part One)
02/24/2025
Talking Toughness with Nathan Cornwell (Part One)
Is employability the same as career guidance? It is not, and the difference matters in the 21st Century. This podcast episode features Nathan Cornwell, an organisational psychologist and talent management consultant who, although young, already has extensive experience working in different cultures around the world. He will share his unique insights on employability, particularly for ex-pats, and introduce the "FLARE" framework for leveraging overseas experience. The discussion will emphasise the importance of self-awareness and explore tools like psychometrics to understand personal values and identify suitable work cultures. Nathan's personal experience brings a unique and practical dimension to his support for his clients who seek to develop their careers in foreign territories. As he puts it himself, "I have walked in your shoes!” Listen and learn.
/episode/index/show/e68355d9-7343-4106-9702-b1c58d4612ba/id/35403990
info_outline
Talking Toughness with Dr Maria Katsarou-Makin (Part Two)
02/03/2025
Talking Toughness with Dr Maria Katsarou-Makin (Part Two)
In this pair of Podcasts, we welcome a very special guest in Dr Maria Katsarou-Makin. Maria is the founder of the Leadership Psychology Institute where she brings together her deep knowledge of leadership and all that this implies together with 20 years of practical experience working with leaders and leadership teams to create an approach which really does help those who are in leadership roles and who aspire to leadership roles. In part two of our discussion with Dr. Maria Katsarou-Makin, we start with pondering about the effectiveness of leadership when the leader is mentally sensitive. Can a mentally sensitive person be an effective leader? Leadership self-awareness is crucial for effective leadership, as it allows leaders to make informed decisions, build strong relationships, and adapt their behaviours to better meet the needs of their team. It appears that self-awareness about our pattern of mental toughness or sensitivity is what is important here. This part of our discussion with Maria will deep dive into 'me as a leader' and my mental approach to the challenges of leadership. Listen, learn and enjoy this thoughtful conversation.
/episode/index/show/e68355d9-7343-4106-9702-b1c58d4612ba/id/34994015
info_outline
Talking Toughness with Dr Maria Katsarou-Makin (Part One)
01/27/2025
Talking Toughness with Dr Maria Katsarou-Makin (Part One)
In this pair of Podcasts, we welcome a very special guest in Dr Maria Katsarou-Makin. Maria is the founder of the Leadership Psychology Institute where she brings together her deep knowledge of leadership and all that this implies together with 20 years of practical experience working with leaders and leadership teams to create an approach which really does help those who are in leadership roles and who aspire to leadership roles. All this is supported by her complementary interest in psychology and in executive coaching. Her work is rooted in an evidence-based approach - something we have noted in her dealings with us and which we very much admire. We are delighted that she has joined us to share her expertise and experience with you and us. In part one, we explore Maria's interest in Leadership which started in her childhood whilst watching her father setting up, developing, and growing a thriving business based in Nigeria. Reflecting the diverse cultural contexts in which Maria has worked and her personal experiences of leaders, good and bad, Maria suggests that leadership can be understood as a dynamic interplay between leaders, followers, and the situational backdrop. While leadership can be influenced by cultural norms, it also possesses the power to reshape those very norms, making it a complex yet essential aspect of societal development. We will also explore the notion of where the leader's intrinsic motivation comes from, how purpose provides the fuel, and how a leader's intrinsic motivation can be critical in fostering an environment where empathy and compassion thrive, ultimately enhancing the effectiveness and impact of leadership in any context. Listen, learn and enjoy this thoughtful conversation.
/episode/index/show/e68355d9-7343-4106-9702-b1c58d4612ba/id/34993980
info_outline
Talking Toughness Best Bits 2024 (Part Three)
01/06/2025
Talking Toughness Best Bits 2024 (Part Three)
Part Three of our Talking Toughness Best Bits 2024 is now live on all major podcasting sites. This episode features clips from Jason Wyatt, Adrian Green, Anthony Taylor, Dave Otter, Craig Hammer, Sara Ireland, Jim Loehr, John Mark Williams, Sylwia Rybak, and Sam Sloan. In the 2024 series of the Talking Toughness podcast, we've had the privilege of engaging with true authorities in their fields such as Dr. Jim Loehr and Professor David Clutterbuck, to explore the evolution of human performance and organisational development. Through these conversations with experienced coaches and professionals, we've explored the future landscape of personal, team and organisational growth, including pondering how AI will ultimately impact on our work. We appreciate your feedback, your support and look forward to continuing this journey with you into 2025! Evolution is about growth and adaptation, but it doesn’t require abandoning our core values or essence.
/episode/index/show/e68355d9-7343-4106-9702-b1c58d4612ba/id/34710565
info_outline
Talking Toughness Best Bits 2024 (Part Two)
12/30/2024
Talking Toughness Best Bits 2024 (Part Two)
Part Two of our Talking Toughness Best Bits 2024 is now live on all major podcasting sites. This episode features clips from Monika Lozinskiene, Joanne Taylor, William McKee, Paul Ryder and David Clutterbuck. In the 2024 series of the Talking Toughness podcast, we've had the privilege of engaging with true authorities in their fields such as Dr. Jim Loehr and Professor David Clutterbuck, to explore the evolution of human performance and organisational development. Through these conversations with experienced coaches and professionals, we've explored the future landscape of personal, team and organisational growth, including pondering how AI will ultimately impact on our work. We appreciate your feedback, your support and look forward to continuing this journey with you into 2025! Evolution is about growth and adaptation, but it doesn’t require abandoning our core values or essence.
/episode/index/show/e68355d9-7343-4106-9702-b1c58d4612ba/id/34579555
info_outline
Talking Toughness Best Bits 2024 (Part One)
12/23/2024
Talking Toughness Best Bits 2024 (Part One)
Evolution is about growth and adaptation, but it doesn’t require abandoning our core values or essence. In the 2024 series of the Talking Toughness podcast, we've had the privilege of engaging with true authorities in their fields such as Dr. Jim Loehr and Professor David Clutterbuck, to explore the evolution of human performance and organisational development. Through these conversations with experienced coaches and professionals, we've explored the future landscape of personal, team and organisational growth, including pondering how AI will ultimately impact on our work. We appreciate your feedback, your support and look forward to continuing this journey with you into 2025! Part One of our Talking Toughness Best Bits 2024 is now live on all major podcasting sites. This episode features clips from Stephen Murphy, Alessia Mevoli, Lucy Myers, Gordon Ryan, Dan Abrahams and Peter Sewell.
/episode/index/show/e68355d9-7343-4106-9702-b1c58d4612ba/id/34551440
info_outline
Talking Toughness with Stephen Murphy (Part Two)
11/18/2024
Talking Toughness with Stephen Murphy (Part Two)
In this discussion with Stephen Murphy, we consider the added value that good quality psychometrics can bring to coaching practice. However, not all psychometrics are the same. Some might be useful in some settings, others in other settings. It all comes down to coaches' better understanding of what psychometrics are and which measures can make a difference for the coach and their clients. This customised understanding fosters a deeper connection with the client and empowers clients to explore and find meaning in their experiences, making the coaching process more effective and fulfilling as they navigate their personal and professional journeys. Listen and learn.
/episode/index/show/e68355d9-7343-4106-9702-b1c58d4612ba/id/33945327
info_outline
Talking Toughness with Stephen Murphy (Part One)
11/11/2024
Talking Toughness with Stephen Murphy (Part One)
In the next two episodes, we chat with Stephen Murphy. Until recently Stephen was, for many years, Vice President, Thought Leadership & Development for EMCC Global (European Mentoring and Coaching Council.) As Managing Partner for Clarity Consulting, he coaches and mentors senior business leaders, individually and in teams, towards greater self-awareness and operational impact. His experience spans a wide range of sectors including AI, Banking, Chemicals, Consulting, FMCG, Insurance, IIoT, Legal, Logistics, Media, Pharma, Software, and Wines & Spirits. This session explores the importance of 'reflective practice'. As soon as you reflect on something, you start to make sense of it. Effective reflection stems from creating an intentional space — both physically and mentally — where individuals can engage in deep thought and active listening. While coaching models can provide useful frameworks and guidelines, they can also impose rigidity that conflicts with the organic nature of conversation and growth. As coaching evolves, the ability to practice with a coaching mindset will likely become increasingly important, emphasising the significance of reflective practice in nurturing both personal and professional development. Listen and learn.
/episode/index/show/e68355d9-7343-4106-9702-b1c58d4612ba/id/33849972
info_outline
Talking Toughness with Dan Abrahams (Part Three)
11/04/2024
Talking Toughness with Dan Abrahams (Part Three)
In this session with Dan Abrahams, we explore his perspectives on the differences and similarities between business coaching and sports coaching, highlighting how the context can shape the coaching approach. In addition, we delve into Dan's biopsychosocial model of coaching, which emphasises the integration of biological, psychological, and social factors in understanding human performance and wellbeing. This model illustrates how our physical makeup, mental toughness, and social support systems interact to influence our ability to perform at our best, providing a holistic view that can enhance coaching effectiveness in both sports and business settings. "We have to understand and appreciate the human behaviour, is biopsychosocial informed." - Dan Abrahams Listen, learn and enjoy!
/episode/index/show/e68355d9-7343-4106-9702-b1c58d4612ba/id/33737967
info_outline
Talking Toughness with Dan Abrahams (Part Two)
10/28/2024
Talking Toughness with Dan Abrahams (Part Two)
We're excited to welcome Dan Abrahams back today to delve into his insights on how we can elevate those who are already successful to aspire to and achieve even greater heights in an increasingly competitive landscape. Dan shares his strategies for sustaining peak performance, focusing on mental resilience, goal-setting, and adapting to the evolving demands of sports and personal challenges. Together, we explore how he fosters a growth mindset in athletes and coaches, empowering them to navigate competition while continuing to thrive and achieve their fullest potential. It's not just for those who work in sport. It's for everyone engaged in helping others to be the best that they can be. "I don't know what it's like to work in an office. However, I can see the relationship between a game face on the pitch and a game face in that facilitation." - Dan Abrahams Listen, learn and enjoy!
/episode/index/show/e68355d9-7343-4106-9702-b1c58d4612ba/id/33613247
info_outline
Talking Toughness with Dan Abrahams (Part One)
10/21/2024
Talking Toughness with Dan Abrahams (Part One)
In this session of Talking Toughness, we will tap into the skills, experience and tremendous expertise of Dan Abrahams, a leading sports psychologist dedicated to simplifying the often unnecessarily complex world of sports psychology. Known for his innovative approaches and engaging insights, Dan works with a diverse range of clients, from athletes to coaches, helping them to incorporate practical strategies into their performance. His experience covers Formula 1 (Aston Martin), England Golf, England Rugby, leading European Soccer clubs as well as corporate clients. He has a deep interest in how people of all types mentally approach their challenges Through exploring his professional methods, we can illuminate how Dan demystifies key concepts in sports psychology, making them accessible and actionable for everyday life. Dan also runs his own podcast show, The Sport Psych Show, as he aims to demystify sport psychology for players, coaches and parents. "You know how you perceive the world is going to influence how you act in the world." Dan Abrahams. Listen and learn.
/episode/index/show/e68355d9-7343-4106-9702-b1c58d4612ba/id/33501447
info_outline
Talking Toughness with Lucy Myers (Part Two)
10/14/2024
Talking Toughness with Lucy Myers (Part Two)
In the second part of our discussion with Lucy Myers, the focus is on the evolving landscape of coaching and therapy, emphasising the importance of accessibility for individuals across all social statuses. As we see similar overlapping approaches such as coaching, mentoring, psychotherapy and so on emerge, Lucy highlights the vital role of professional bodies in avoiding confusion and particularly in defining therapeutic coaching to foster clarity, confidence, and change for clients. As practitioners adapt to the needs of a dynamic world, they aim to empower individuals by helping them recognise the advantages and disadvantages they can bring to a situation and navigate the journey toward effective change. This underscores the virtue of collaborative effort within the community of professionals in this field. The need for clarity has never been greater. Listen and learn.
/episode/index/show/e68355d9-7343-4106-9702-b1c58d4612ba/id/33421057
info_outline
Talking Toughness with Lucy Myers (Part One)
10/07/2024
Talking Toughness with Lucy Myers (Part One)
In the first of two related podcasts, we are thrilled to welcome Lucy Myers, Founder and CEO of Therapeutic Coaching Consultancy, for a timely and insightful discussion on therapeutic coaching. In this part of our conversation, we'll explore what therapeutic coaching entails, who can benefit from it, and how it integrates with traditional coaching practices, shedding light on its unique approach to personal and professional development. While many dual-qualified practitioners have been combining the skillsets of coaching and psychotherapy for some time, there is a lack of formal research into what the term 'therapeutic coaching' means for practitioners, and - crucially - how we can understand the benefits of this approach for clients. Lucy is a key member of a group carrying out formal research, as well as developing case studies, which should serve to support the development of a 'gold standard' of practice for dual-practitioners (in alignment with strategic objectives of the British Association of Counselling and Psychotherapy). There is real expertise here. Listen and learn.
/episode/index/show/e68355d9-7343-4106-9702-b1c58d4612ba/id/33329982
info_outline
Talking Toughness with Gordon Ryan (Part Two)
09/30/2024
Talking Toughness with Gordon Ryan (Part Two)
In Part 2 of our dialogue with Gordon Ryan, we delve into the complexities of human nature within high-pressure environments, such as the world of first responders. Understanding the diverse manifestations of mental toughness and sensitivity among team members is crucial for effective leadership. By acknowledging individual differences, supervisors can tailor strategies to motivate and support their teams, thereby enhancing resilience and performance in challenging situations. Learning Orientation, in the context of mental toughness, underscores the significance of reflection for personal and professional growth. Constant evaluation of thoughts, actions, and experiences allows individuals to identify areas for improvement, adapt strategies, and cultivate resilience in the face of adversity. Exploring belongingness sheds light on its dual nature within team dynamics. While it serves as a fundamental aspect of identity and fosters advantages for individuals and teams, the reluctance to speak up or address issues can lead to unhealthy consequences. By listening and learning from these discussions, we can navigate the complexities of belongingness to foster a healthy team environment. Listen and learn.
/episode/index/show/e68355d9-7343-4106-9702-b1c58d4612ba/id/33234752
info_outline
Talking Toughness with Gordon Ryan (Part One)
09/23/2024
Talking Toughness with Gordon Ryan (Part One)
Our next guest, Gordon Ryan, a chartered psychologist and founder of PRISM Work Psychology, will delve into the challenges faced by first responder services in a two-part series. In the first episode, Gordon highlights the transition to leadership roles within these critical services. Climbing the promotional ladder brings increased stress and new challenges that may catch individuals unprepared, emphasizing the need for comprehensive training. Beyond enhancing basic skills, employees must be equipped to manage their own stressors and foster resilience among their teams. Recognising the strain at higher levels is crucial to creating a supportive environment that minimises stress and promotes success for all team members. First responders often grapple with emotional challenges amid traumatic incidents, facing public scrutiny and organisational expectations. When met with criticism, especially in perceived unjust situations, emotional distress can undermine well-being. Organisations must provide robust support to enhance resilience and mental health in this indispensable workforce. Confidence plays a pivotal role in navigating such pressures. Having self-assurance to trust one's capabilities is paramount when expectations fall short, enabling effective problem-solving. As Gordon aptly puts it, confidence means backing oneself to make the best decisions in challenging moments. Listen and learn
/episode/index/show/e68355d9-7343-4106-9702-b1c58d4612ba/id/33124717
info_outline
Talking Toughness with Alessia Mevoli and Peter Sewell (Part Two)
09/16/2024
Talking Toughness with Alessia Mevoli and Peter Sewell (Part Two)
We are living in exceptional times marked by the interests of an individual but also by the interests of the times they live in. Employability was and is still a crucial factor for individuals seeking rewarding careers and control over their lives. It ensures an individual remains competitive in the job market. It involves not only the capability to obtain initial employment but also the adaptability required to meet new job requirements within the same organisation or find new employment if necessary. In the second part of this podcast featuring Alessia Mevoli and Peter Sewell, the discussion highlights how Further and Higher Education institutions play a crucial role in enhancing student employability through innovative curriculum development, such as the introduction of the MAFA modules focused on mental agility, flexibility, and adaptability. This initiative reflects a collaborative partnership between students and institutions, outlining mutual expectations and responsibilities as they navigate their educational journey together. Alessia and Peter are also contributing authors to AQR’s newly released book on employability, ‘The Employability Code - Unlocking the Most Employable Version of You' available on Amazon this week. We hope you enjoy this learning piece.
/episode/index/show/e68355d9-7343-4106-9702-b1c58d4612ba/id/32908867
info_outline
Talking Toughness with Alessia Mevoli and Peter Sewell (Part One)
09/09/2024
Talking Toughness with Alessia Mevoli and Peter Sewell (Part One)
SEEKING ANSWERS TO THE SECRETS OF ‘EMPLOYABILITY’. We are leaving exceptional times marked by the interests of an individual but also by the interests of the times they live in. Employability was and is still a crucial factor for individuals seeking rewarding careers and control over their lives. It ensures an individual remains competitive in the job market. It involves not only the capability to obtain initial employment but also the adaptability required to meet new job requirements within the same organisation or find new employment if necessary. In the first part of this podcast featuring Alessia Mevoli and Peter Sewell, the discussion highlights how Further and Higher Education institutions play a crucial role in enhancing student employability through innovative curriculum development, such as the introduction of the MAFA modules focused on mental agility, flexibility, and adaptability. This initiative reflects a collaborative partnership between students and institutions, outlining mutual expectations and responsibilities as they navigate their educational journey together. Alessia and Peter are also contributing authors to AQR’s newly released book on employability, ‘The Employability Code - Unlocking the Most Employable Version of You' available on Amazon this week. We hope you enjoy this learning piece.
/episode/index/show/e68355d9-7343-4106-9702-b1c58d4612ba/id/32895557
info_outline
Talking Toughness with Paul Ryder (Part Two)
09/02/2024
Talking Toughness with Paul Ryder (Part Two)
'What’s happening with modern leadership, and where is it going as a practice?‘ In this second of a pair of podcasts, we welcome Paul Ryder, a Learning & Resourcing Professional with 30+ years of experience split between consultancy and the financial services sector, West (London) and East (Shanghai). In recent times, Paul was a Group Managing Director of the Bank of China Learning Institute in Shanghai where he provided strategic development guidance at the highest levels of the organisation. He provides us with an insight into a culture we can rarely experience for ourselves. In this second part of the discussion with Paul, we explore the inner workings of a leader, examining their level of emotional maturity, leadership style, and ability to adapt to the ever-evolving global landscape. "Dealing with your own demons first, before you have the right to manage and lead others.“ - Paul Ryder. Listen, learn and enjoy this insightful discussion.
/episode/index/show/e68355d9-7343-4106-9702-b1c58d4612ba/id/32809987
info_outline
Talking Toughness with Paul Ryder (Part One)
08/27/2024
Talking Toughness with Paul Ryder (Part One)
‘An English Man in Shanghai’ - what can we learn about leadership across cultures? In this pair of podcasts, we welcome Paul Ryder, a Learning & Resourcing Professional with 30+ years of experience split between consultancy and the financial services sector, garnered in the West and in the East (Hong Kong and China) In recent times, Paul was a Group Managing Director of the Bank of China Learning Institute in Shanghai where he provided strategic development guidance at the highest levels of the organisation. In this part of the discussion with Paul, we are exploring the subject of leadership and analysing it in depth through the lens of different jurisdictions, cultures, types of organisations, and workforces. Through the lens of Pauls unique vantage point, we delve into the approaches to leadership in China and the West, exploring significant differences in leadership philosophies, values, and practices between the two regions. It is an incredibly thoughtful exploration which is gently provocative in equal measure. Listen, learn and enjoy this insightful discussion.
/episode/index/show/e68355d9-7343-4106-9702-b1c58d4612ba/id/32713762
info_outline
Talking Toughness with Monika Lozinskienė (Part Two)
08/19/2024
Talking Toughness with Monika Lozinskienė (Part Two)
In this pair of podcasts, we enter the world of the performing arts where we meet with Monika Lozinskiene, classical pianist. As well as developing a hugely successful career as a pianist, she has developed as a Social Media expert and a business person who, despite her young age, has long understood that the world of music is, in important ways no different to any other world of work. If you want to succeed, you have to push yourself every day, see challenges as opportunities, have self-belief and confidence, and most of all… know your purpose – why are you doing this? In Part 2 we explore how society can lose out on many great performers if their mental sensitivity has been inappropriately managed preventing them the chance to thrive later on in their lives. By creating a culture of support, we can help these individuals thrive, leading to personal and societal benefits such as increased creativity, improved mental health, and a more diverse range of perspectives and talents being brought to the forefront of everyone's lives. These individuals, often referred to as "highly sensitive people," can bring unique perspectives, creativity, and innovative thinking to the table. "Mental Toughness is not about doing difficult things, it's about you doing things that you might find difficult to do." - Professor John Perry Listen, learn and appreciate this very personal account.
/episode/index/show/e68355d9-7343-4106-9702-b1c58d4612ba/id/32608592
info_outline
Talking Toughness with Monika Lozinskienė (Part One)
08/12/2024
Talking Toughness with Monika Lozinskienė (Part One)
PERFORMANCE ANXIETY - ADOPTING MENTALLY TOUGH BEHAVIOURS ON STAGE In this pair of podcasts, we enter the world of the performing arts where we meet with Monika Lozinskienė, classical pianist. As well as developing a hugely successful career as a pianist, she has developed as a Social Media expert and a business person who, despite her young age, has long understood that the world of music is, in important ways no different to any other world of work. If you want to succeed, you have to push yourself every day, see challenges as opportunities, have self-belief and confidence, and most of all…know your purpose – why are you doing this? As a musician, focusing on developing mental toughness and self-belief is, for Monika, as important as purposeful practice. By focusing on building mental toughness, musicians can overcome their fears and doubts, and perform at their best. The best performers are not scared of failing. They are prepared to take risks even though they know they might make mistakes. Having the ability to bounce back from mistakes and setbacks and learn from them can help alleviate performance anxiety and reduce stress. In Part One, we delve into Monika's personal experience. Monika's journey to becoming one of the world's renowned pianists was marked by her intense introspection and self-awareness. She recounts how she had to navigate her own emotions, fears, and obstacles to overcome her struggles with performance anxiety and self-doubt, ultimately finding a path towards greater confidence and artistic expression. Listen, learn and appreciate this very personal story.
/episode/index/show/e68355d9-7343-4106-9702-b1c58d4612ba/id/32516652
info_outline
Talking Toughness with Joanne Taylor (Part Two)
08/05/2024
Talking Toughness with Joanne Taylor (Part Two)
Our guest for this second part of the show is Joanne Taylor. Joanne is an early adopter of the 4Cs mental toughness concept and measures, who has led the way in its application with some of the toughest challenges in society. One highly successful flagship 3-year project targeted reducing re-offending by young offenders coming to the end of their sentences. Joanne and her colleagues have shown that by creating self-awareness about their mental approach to the changes they face and developing strategies and tactics to manage what they learn, they can look forward positively to a life with better chances. Talent Match Black Country works in partnership with unemployed young adults, aged 17-29, who have direct experience of offending and those who face disadvantage and are furthest from the labour market, to help them achieve: Increased confidence, optimism and resilience. Reduced levels and avoidance of re-offending. Progress nearer and into sustainable employment. For more information about the application of the 4Cs Mental Toughness Model and MTQ measure to enhance social mobility reach out to Listen and learn.
/episode/index/show/e68355d9-7343-4106-9702-b1c58d4612ba/id/32400637
info_outline
Talking Toughness with Joanne Taylor (Part One)
07/29/2024
Talking Toughness with Joanne Taylor (Part One)
A CASE STUDY IN REDUCING YOUNG OFFENDER RE-OFFENDING THROUGH APPLICATION OF THE MENTAL TOUGHNESS CONCEPT Our guest, Joanne Taylor (nee Turley), is an early adopter of the 4Cs mental toughness concept and measures, who has led the way in its application with some of the toughest challenges in society. Joanne is a Co Founder of AQR Consulting, a key partner of AQR, whose remit is focused on providing leadership and talent development programmes to SMEs and organisations of all sizes and types. She was formerly a People & Performance Consultant with ARK Consultancy in the UK which focuses on the social housing sectors and issues associated with that sector Including working with young people who are often at the fringes of society. One highly successful flagship 3-year project Joanne was involved with while at ARK targeted reducing re-offending by young offenders coming to the end of their sentences. Joanne and her colleagues showed that by creating self-awareness about their mental approach to the changes they face and developing strategies and tactics to manage what they learn, they can look forward positively to a life with better chances. Talent Match Black Country works in partnership with unemployed young adults, aged 17-29, who have direct experience of offending and those who face disadvantage and are furthest from the labour market, to help them achieve: · Increased confidence, optimism and resilience. · Reduced levels and avoidance of re-offending. · Progress nearer and into sustainable employment. Joanne has created a body of knowledge and skills working with young people which make a real difference for them and, measurably, for society There is learning here for all.
/episode/index/show/e68355d9-7343-4106-9702-b1c58d4612ba/id/32291937
info_outline
Talking Toughness with William McKee (Part Two)
07/22/2024
Talking Toughness with William McKee (Part Two)
"A lot of the ideas that I came into contact with, when you give them a bit of a nudge, they fall over." William McKee. The quote is increasingly relevant as awareness grows that not all models measures and ideas in the world of people and organisation development are reliable. Many have little or no real evidence to support them. In this podcast, we welcome William McKee. William is an exceptional individual who challenges the status quo of the people and organisation development industry by advocating strongly for an evidence-based approach to any tools and assessments used to support the growth of organisations, especially individuals. William McKee is a civil engineer who attended a development course for his own benefit. As a result, got enthusiastic about the wide range of possibilities that the human performance industry can provide. William's engineering background makes him question each concept and tool used to help people grow and prosper - how valid and reliable are they? It is crucial to separate fact from fiction when it comes to the tools and assessments used to support the work of coaches, trainers and managers if they are to make a real difference. In William's own words, he is not so keen on all “the pseudoscience and daft ideas permeating the worlds of L&D, OD and HR and people developments”. This is Part 2 of this insightful discussion, exploring the importance of an evidence-based approach wherever we develop individuals. Listen and learn from William McKee
/episode/index/show/e68355d9-7343-4106-9702-b1c58d4612ba/id/32216907