Summer Sparks: The Power of Values in Leadership

Hosts: Simon Phillips & Renée Smith discussing their conversation with Chris Hirst

***Get your free copy of our Season 1 Souvenir Guide here*** - https://a-human-workplace.myflodesk.com/llc-souvenir-guide-2025

In this episode of Summer Sparks, Simon Phillips and Renée Smith reflect on their journey through the series, discussing the transition from summer to autumn and the celebrations that come with it. They delve into leadership insights from Chris Hirst, CEO of Bespak, emphasizing the importance of open communication, transparency, and fostering a sense of belonging within teams. The conversation highlights the significance of organizational values and how they can be developed collaboratively to enhance engagement and performance. Practical tips for leaders to connect with their teams are also shared, culminating in a discussion about the simplicity and effectiveness of common sense in leadership practices.

Takeaways

• Open communication is essential for effective leadership.
• Creating a sense of belonging requires visibility and engagement.
• Values should be co-created to resonate with the entire organization.
• Real engagement involves asking for input, not just informing.
• Transparency fosters trust and open dialogue in teams.
• Leaders must manage their biases to connect with all team members.
• Values-based activities enhance organizational performance.
• Respect is a complex value that needs clear definitions.
• Common sense actions can lead to significant improvements in leadership.
• Engagement should be a structured and regular practice.

Sound Bites

"All ideas are welcome and honored."

"Respect is a complicated construct."

"Common sense is not commonplace."

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction and Reflections on Summer Sparks

05:06 - Transitioning Seasons: Autumn and Celebrations

09:50 - Leadership Insights from Chris Hurst

13:10 - The Importance of Organizational Values

20:44 - Practical Tips for Leadership Engagement

24:59 - Conclusion and Future Directions

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Connect with the Hosts and Guest:

Chris Hirst - LinkedIn Profile

Renée Smith - LinkedIn Profile

Simon Phillips - LinkedIn Profile

All Music composed by Adam Phillips

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Summer Sparks: Embracing Leadership Vulnerability

Hosts: Simon Phillips & Renée Smith discussing their conversation with Gary Keogh

***Get your free copy of our Season 1 Souvenir Guide here*** - https://a-human-workplace.myflodesk.com/llc-souvenir-guide-2025

In this episode, Simon Phillips and Renee Smith reflect on their personal experiences and insights from their conversation with Gary Keogh, the former global brand director for Balvenie whiskey. They discuss the evolving nature of leadership, emphasizing the importance of diverse perspectives and the distinction between kindness and niceness in communication. The episode encourages leaders to embrace discomfort and prioritize empathy in their interactions, ultimately fostering a more supportive and effective team environment.

Takeaways

• No leader has all the answers.
• Diverse perspectives lead to better solutions.
• Kindness involves empathy and sometimes difficult feedback.
• Niceness can undermine trust and authenticity.
• Leaders must embrace discomfort in communication.
• Feedback is essential for growth and development.
• Trusting team members' experiences is crucial.
• The impact of our communication matters.
• Intentions must align with the desired impact.
• Sharing insights can inspire others.

Sound Bites

"No leader has all the answers."

"Lean into the discomfort."

"Our intent is pure."

Chapters

00:00 - Introduction and Personal Updates

04:15 - Leadership Insights from Gary Keough

11:21 - The Difference Between Kindness and Niceness

18:02 - Conclusion and Call to Action

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Connect with the Hosts and Guest:

Gary Keogh - LinkedIn Profile

Renée Smith - LinkedIn Profile

Simon Phillips - LinkedIn Profile

All Music composed by Adam Phillips

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Summer Sparks: Embracing Authenticity in Leadership

Hosts: Simon Phillips & Renée Smith discussing their conversation with Kate Blackburn

***Get your free copy of our Season 1 Souvenir Guide here*** - https://a-human-workplace.myflodesk.com/llc-souvenir-guide-2025

Listen to the full episode: [https://shows.acast.com/love-lead-change/episodes/leading-with-love-in-public-health]

In this episode of Summer Sparks, Simon Phillips and Renée Smith reflect on their summer memories and delve into the principles of loving leadership. They discuss the importance of authenticity, vulnerability, and perspective in leadership roles, emphasizing that true leadership comes from being oneself rather than emulating others. The conversation highlights the significance of taking breaks and connecting with nature for mental well-being, culminating in a call to action for listeners to embrace these practices.

Takeaways

• Being yourself is crucial in leadership roles.
• Loving leadership should be authentically yours.
• Leadership isn't about wearing a mask or costume.
• Vulnerability fosters trust and connection in teams.
• Fresh air and perspective can change your mindset.
• Authenticity in leadership is sustainable and effective.
• Leaders should model vulnerability for their teams.
• Taking breaks can enhance mental clarity and well-being.
• Personal experiences shape our leadership styles.
• Engaging with nature can provide fresh insights.

Sound Bites

• "Be yourself as a loving leader."
• "Go outside, look at the horizon."
• "Get outside, get some fresh air."

Chapters

00:00 Summer Memories and Reflections

02:48 The Essence of Loving Leadership

06:05 Vulnerability in Leadership

08:57 The Importance of Perspective

11:57 Call to Action and Season Wrap-Up

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Connect with the Hosts:

Renée Smith - LinkedIn Profile

Simon Phillips - LinkedIn Profile

All Music composed by Adam Phillips

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.