• Ep. 23 June Hogan: Tough Conversations Need Empathy
    May 20 2025

    In this episode of the Leaders Podcast, I welcome June Hogan, an outplacement support specialist and career coach, to discuss the critical role leaders play in managing redundancies. We delve into the emotional and practical aspects of outplacement support, the importance of empathy over sympathy, and strategies for leaders to help their teams navigate these challenging transitions. The conversation provides deep insights into the significance of human-centred leadership during tough times and highlights the value of supporting employees until their final moments with the organisation.

    Introduction

    Exercise and Self-Care

    June Hogan's Journey

    Dealing with Redundancy

    Empathy vs. Sympathy

    The Redundancy Process

    Support for Leaders

    Why Outplacement Support Matters

    Are you preparing for redundancies and want June’s support for your team? Reach out on LinkedIn (1) June Hogan MCIPD | LinkedIn or visit Wildwoodcoaching.co.uk

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    58 mins
  • Ep. 22 Paddy Roberts: Be The Change Leader Your Team Needs
    May 13 2025

    In this episode of the Leaders Podcast, I have an insightful conversation with Paddy Roberts, a specialist in cutover management, transition, and deployment management.

    We discuss various aspects and importance of change leadership, and the nuances of implementing successful transitions within organisations. Paddy shares his personal journey, offers valuable tips for leaders, and provides intriguing stories from his professional career, making this episode both informative and engaging.

    Listeners will gain a deep understanding of cutover management and the critical role of leadership in facilitating effective change.

    Introduction

    Cooking to Serve Yourself

    Early Career and Shift to Cutover Management

    What is Cutover Management?

    Responses to Change

    Characteristics of Effective Leaders

    Dealing with Resistance to Change

    Inter-Departmental Challenges

    Importance of Dress Rehearsals

    Post-Change Processes

    Discoveries During Rehearsals

    Leadership Lessons from Cutover Management

    Do you need a cutover manager and think Paddy’s your man? Get in touch with him on LinkedIn (3) Paddy Roberts | LinkedIn

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    54 mins
  • Ep. 21: How To Say "Yes" Less!
    May 6 2025

    In this episode, we delve into the challenging habit of saying yes too often and the importance of learning to say no. I share personal experiences and practical advice on breaking this habit, the psychological factors at play, and how to balance our own needs with the expectations of others. Learn strategies to set boundaries, manage your time better, and develop healthier, more sustainable work relationships.


    The Most Difficult Habit to Break

    The Culture Challenge

    Personal Experiences with Saying No

    The Day-to-Day Reality of Saying Yes

    Understanding Confirmation Bias

    Rethinking How to Help

    Realistic Capacity Planning

    The Need for Self-Acceptance

    Direct and Honest Communication

    Consistent Practice and Accountability

    If you want support to say “yes” less, DM me now on LinkedIn to join my Drop-In Mentoring group (2) Laura MacDonald | LinkedIn 2 spaces have already been taken for May!

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    18 mins
  • Ep. 20: Ditch The Labels - Unboxing Your True Potential
    Apr 8 2025

    From understanding oneself through various self-assessment tools to the impact of labels on personal and professional growth, this introspective episode delves deep into the journey of self-discovery and leadership. It explores how labels can both confine and empower individuals, emphasising the fluidity of personal attributes and the importance of introspection. The episode features insights from notable guests, discussing topics such as resilience, parenting, and the modern challenges of interviews. Through personal anecdotes and expert advice, the episode encourages listeners to embrace their evolving identities, shedding restrictive labels, and focusing on growth-oriented mindsets.


    Understanding Personal Labels

    Embracing Impulsivity in Habits

    Leadership Styles and Models

    Reevaluating Self-Assessments

    Adjusting Mindsets with Simple Changes

    Addressing Labels in Interviews

    Understanding and Managing Introversion

    Navigating Parenting Challenges

    Technology and Interests in Leadership

    Breaking out of the Box of Labels

    Continuous Growth and Reevaluation

    Conclusion: The Only Label That Matters

    Want my help to understand your labels and work with them to elevate your leadership? Join my drop-in mentoring group now Drop-In Mentoring | Laura MacDonald

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    26 mins
  • Ep.19: The Humanity In Success
    Apr 1 2025

    In this episode of 'The Leaders Podcast,' Laura MacDonald explores the true meaning of success, which extends beyond material possessions to the impact we make on the world and others. Laura revisits highlights from previous guests Nicole Winer, Chris O'Connell, Zoe Plumley, and Alice Dearing, who share their unique perspectives on success. Through their diverse experiences, we delve into the importance of understanding personal values, remaining authentic, and fostering meaningful relationships and environments, both in personal and professional spheres.


    Discussing Success in a Fast-Paced World

    Mainstream Definition vs. Real Success

    Nicole Winer: Introversion and Success

    Chris O'Connell's View on Success

    Zoe Plumley: Personal Contentment

    Alice Dearing: Embracing New Challenges

    Multi-Faceted Success Definitions

    Laura's Reflections on True Leadership

    Laura's Journey to Purpose Literacy

    Influencing Human-Centred Leadership

    If you’re a people-centred leader looking to grow your connection and influence with others and meet other leaders like you, join my new drop-in mentoring group every month for just 60 minutes of your time. DM me with “DROPIN” on LinkedIn Laura MacDonald | LinkedIn or use the contact form on my website Leadership Consultant | Laura the Leaders Coach

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    19 mins
  • Ep. 18 Alice Dearing: Who I Am Goes Far Beyond The Water
    Mar 26 2025

    Join Laura MacDonald as she meets with Alice Dearing, the former Team GB Olympic marathon swimmer and co-founder of the Black Swimming Association. In this insightful episode, Alice shares her inspirational journey from being a world junior open water champion to founding initiatives that aim to change perspectives and inclusivity in swimming. Alice talks about personal motivations, overcoming challenges, the beliefs that helped her find balance, and her vision for the future of swimming globally.


    Self-Care and Balance

    Video Games and Leisure

    Achievements and Impact

    Struggles and Recovery

    Training Environments

    University and Beyond

    Retirement Reflection

    SWYM Initiative

    Closing Thoughts

    Want to connect with Alice or find out more about her initiatives? Find her on LinkedIn (3) Alice Dearing OLY | LinkedIn or Instagram Alice Dearing🌷 (@alicedearingx) • Instagram photos and videos

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    1 hr and 5 mins
  • Ep. 17 Jacqui Frost: I Thought I Was Being Resilient, I Am Now!
    Mar 19 2025

    In this episode, Laura MacDonald interviews Jacqui Frost, an ACC accredited ICF coach, resilient leaders consultant, and director of Leadership 43. Jacqui shares insights from her journey as a former head teacher, recounting her challenges, experiences, and the profound lessons she's learned about resilience. Laura and Jacqui discuss the significance of self-awareness, the evolution of resilience over time, and practical strategies for leaders to maintain their well-being and effectiveness in demanding roles.


    Introduction to Jacqui Frost

    Personal Resilience Practices

    The Role of Clarity in Communication

    Jacqui's Career and Burnout Experience

    Understanding Resilience

    Professional Conflict and Growth

    Supporting Children's Resilience

    Reflection on Career and Values

    Leadership Presence and Self-Awareness

    Want to learn more or connect with Jacqui? Find her on LinkedIn (4) Jacqui Frost 🔑 (ICF ACC Coach) LeadershipFortyThree | LinkedIn

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    56 mins
  • Ep. 16: Strategic Networking For Your Personal Board
    Mar 12 2025

    In this episode, we delve into the significance of strategically growing your personal and professional network. Laura shares personal experiences and insights on the impact a robust network can have on one's leadership journey, career development, and personal growth. The episode explores the challenges and rewards of building meaningful connections and offers practical advice for those looking to expand their networks both within and outside their workplaces.

    Introduction to Strategic Networking

    Leadership's Lonely Path and the Power of Networking

    Building a Supportive Network

    Reflecting on Networking and Personal Growth

    Dangers of Mid-Career Overconfidence

    Learning from Failure

    Rebuilding and Adapting Networks

    Leadership and External Networks

    The Role of Experts in Networking

    The Entrepreneurship Journey

    The Importance of Stepping Outside

    Leveraging Social Media and Modern Tools

    Diversity in Networks

    Personal Preferences in Networking

    Building and Reviewing Networks

    If you’re looking for a people-centred leadership coach or mentor to add to your board, DM me now on LinkedIn to find out how we’ll work best together (4) Laura MacDonald | LinkedIn or fill in the contact form on my website www.lauratheleaderscoach.com

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    20 mins