Shows
The Strategic Leader4.06 Hybrid, remote or in-office - what's better? with Dr Gemma DaleIs hybrid working better than being fully remote or fully in-office? Frankly, that's the wrong question. This episode explores how decisions about work location are often based on personal opinion rather than data, and why that leads to poor outcomes.Dr Gemma Dale shares insights from her academic research, showing how deeply held beliefs about productivity and presence still drive leadership behaviour. Many organisations still lack a clear definition of what good performance actually means. Instead, they default to outdated assumptions, such as equating visibility with effectiveness. We explore why so many hybrid models fall...2025-07-2233 minThe Strategic Leader4.05 What skills will we need in 2030?The year 2030 may feel like the distant future, but it's just five years away, and the skills we need by then are already shifting. Drawing on the World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025, we explore which capabilities will matter most for individuals, teams, and organisations. Unsurprisingly, AI and big data dominate the list, but what stood out to us was how essential human-centred skills, like resilience, flexibility, curiosity and emotional intelligence, are set to surge in importance.These so-called “soft skills” are not easy; they’re hard to teach, hard to measure...2025-07-0829 minThe Strategic Leader4.04 How can HR lead the AI revolution? with Naureen HussainAI is already reshaping work, and HR has a perfect opportunity to take the lead.In this episode, we speak with Naureen Hussain, a privacy, data governance and responsible AI specialist, to explore how HR can lead the AI revolution. We talk about why HR can and should be a core voice in shaping organisational AI strategy, and how to practically assess the impact of AI across roles, talent development and recruitment.Naureen shares how HR’s unique organisational perspective makes it well-placed to act as a leader and a critical friend in AI adoption, id...2025-06-2439 minThe Strategic Leader4.03 Is it time to redefine performance?Performance is a word we throw around easily in work and HR conversations, but do we actually agree on what it means?In this episode we challenge the assumptions and complexity behind a term we think we all understand. Starting with the uncomfortable truth that most organisations operate without a shared definition. And we explore the consequences of trying to reward or manager performance without this clarity.We introduce a four-part model of performance, developed by Gemma though real-life client experience.We discuss how performance is dynamic, nuanced and influenced by context, and...2025-06-1031 minThe Strategic Leader4.02 Are Performance Ratings Still Fit for Purpose in Today’s Workplace?Performance ratings spark strong views – some see them as essential for clarity and motivation, others as outdated, divisive, and unhelpful. In this episode, we go beyond the usual debate to ask whether ratings can still play a constructive role in modern performance management, or whether they need a complete rethink.We’re joined by Anna Rasmussen, CEO and Founder of OpenBlend, who brings over a decade of experience helping organisations build people-first performance cultures. Anna suggests ratings alone are not the problem – it’s how they're used. When treated as a once-a-year judgement with no context, they can dise...2025-05-2731 minThe Strategic Leader4.01 How to Tackle Challenges More StrategicallyStrategic thinking isn’t about having the strongest opinion in the room – it’s about knowing how to take a step back and ask better questions. In this episode, we talk about what it really takes to move from personal opinion to a more strategic viewpoint, especially when you're dealing with big, complex topics that people often feel strongly about.We explore a simple approach: start by getting some perspective (take the balcony view rather than getting stuck on the dance floor), stay open to other possibilities (two things can be true at once), and always come back t...2025-05-1325 minThe Strategic Leader3.10 - How to be More Strategic with Team GatheringsDo you ever think about how to make every team gathering intentional, strategic, and worth the investment?In this episode the hosts look at how meetings, away days, training sessions, and team coaching each require distinct approaches to be truly effective.They reveal why they think team building can be a bit random, and not always address the key needs of a team to be truly effective.They talk about the importance of selecting the right approach for each situation and avoiding the common trap of defaulting to training or team building, when...2025-02-1829 minThe Strategic LeaderS3 09 - The 7 Characteristics of High Performing TeamsWe explore what makes a high-performing team, the difference between individual and collective performance, and a seven-part model for building effective, cohesive, and successful teams.Fiona shares insights from her work in leadership and team coaching, highlighting how individual brilliance does not automatically create a high-performing team. They introduce a seven-part model from Lucy Widdowson that defines the 7 essential elements of effective teamwork, including purpose, identity, relatedness, values and beliefs, awareness, ways of working, and transformation.Through analogies such as football teams and leadership dynamics, they explore common team challenges, from ineffective meetings to the...2025-02-0431 minThe Strategic Leader3.08 From Being in a Team to Leading itWe discuss the challenges and strategies when you move from team member to team manager,Drawing on personal experiences and coaching insights, we have a natter about the unique challenges this shift can pose. What's your new leadership identity? How do you balance team dynamics? How do you ensure you fulfil what the organisation needs of you in this new role?Fi shares a candid anecdotes about one of her own career missteps and lessons she learned when she was promoted over a team-mate to assume management of him. We look at a...2025-01-2130 minThe Strategic Leader3.07 Making Effective Team DecisionsDiscussing the complexities of making decisions as a team. The hosts examine how group dynamics, diverse perspectives, and unclear roles can hinder effective decision-making. A central theme is the importance of defining the decision-making process - understanding roles, responsibilities, and accountabilities - before tackling the decision itself.The conversation highlights the RACI framework (Responsible, Accountable, Consulted, Informed) as a valuable tool for clarifying roles. The hosts also address the concept of consensus, challenging the notion that universal agreement is always ideal. Instead, they explore practical alternatives like “disagree and commit” and “safe-to-try” approaches, fosterin...2025-01-0729 minThe Strategic LeaderBehind the Scenes Christmas SpecialA behind-the-scenes festive chat to reflect on The Strategic Leader podcast journey over the past year. From how it all began to the highs, lows, and lessons learned, we’re spilling the mulled wine and sharing it all!We also sprinkle in some reflective coaching questions to help you look back on your own year and plan for the next.Use these questions to spark your thinking:What are you most proud of this year?What challenges did you face, and how did you overcome them?What have you learned about yourself?What would yo...2024-12-1726 minThe Strategic Leader3.06 How to Create High-Performing Teams Without Wasting TimeHow do you create high-performing teams in lightning speed? Drawing on the rapid teaming model developed by David Clutterbuck, the hosts discuss how high-performing teams can be created without the sometimes lengthy stages of traditional models like forming, storming, norming, and performing.Fiona draws on her Team Coaching experience and explains the four core principles of the rapid teaming model: establishing shared purpose, building psychological safety, managing individual contributions, and streamlining team processes.Real-world examples, from a Chilean mining rescue to Spotify's iterative Work From Anywhere policy, illustrate how these principles can be applied to...2024-12-0330 minThe Strategic Leader3.05 - How to Build Strong Hybrid TeamsIn this episode, hosts Gemma Bullivant and Fiona Craig discuss a pressing issue for modern teams - building and nurturing strong relationships in hybrid work settings. While many leaders still debate the value of in-person versus remote work, Gemma and Fi share insights on bridging this divide by using intentional collaboration. They unpack the benefits of using strategic models like Gartner’s 2x2 matrix for remote versus in-office work and the need for purposeful choices in team interactions. Fi highlights her experience with tools like Miro for virtual collaboration, noting that with the right tools an...2024-11-1930 minThe Strategic Leader3.04 Managing Up: Why Adapting Your Style to Suit Your Manager MattersDo you find it challenging to communicate effectively with your manager? We talk about the dynamics of optimising workplace relationships, especially with managers, and offer practical techniques to improve communication and mutual understanding. Fiona shares a personal story about adapting her communication style with a previous CEO, and her learnings about the importance of recognising different personalities, thinking styles, and behavioural tendencies.Gemma explains the Parent-Adult-Child (PAC) model, a framework rooted in Transactional Analysis, and how it can specifically help with relationships influenced by the power dynamic. >> Read more about the Transactional Analysis...2024-11-0529 minThe Strategic Leader3.03 How to Build Trust in Leadership Using the Trust EquationGemma and Fi explore the role of trust in building effective teams and strategic leadership.They start by sharing personal stories highlighting the importance of stepping back, taking calculated risks, and building trust in professional relationships.The discussion centres on the "trust equation," a model from The Trusted Advisor by David Meister, Charles Green, and Robert Galford. Fiona and Gemma dissect each component—credibility, reliability, intimacy (or psychological safety), and self-orientation—explaining how they interact to foster trustworthiness.They emphasise that trust in teams isn't simply about likability; it’s built on reliability, person...2024-10-2229 minThe Strategic Leader3.02 How Our Values Affect Our RelationshipsExploring the impact of personal values on leadership and teamwork.Drawing from models such as love languages and core strengths, Gemma and Fi emphasise the importance of understanding the values that drive both ourselves and others, as misalignment can lead to friction in working relationships.The discussion offers practical advice on how to navigate value differences within teams. For example, understanding a colleague’s preference for action ("do it now") or precision ("do it right") can help create more cohesive and productive teams.Fi also introduces simple, practical techniques, such as pausing and as...2024-10-0827 minThe Strategic Leader3.01 How to Work With Others More EffectivelyGemma and Fiona dive into the third pillar of leadership: leading others. They reflect on how leaders can maximise collective impact, focusing on the skills and mindsets needed to work effectively alongside others. Building on insights from previous series, they discuss how strategic leaders need to think beyond task completion and examine relationships. Their conversation emphasises the importance of foundational steps like awareness, understanding, acceptance, and appreciation in creating more effective team dynamics. By acknowledging and valuing differences in working styles, leaders can unlock better outcomes and enhance collaboration. The hosts share practical...2024-09-2430 minThe Strategic Leader2.10 Systems and Processes: The Hidden Blockers to Strategic LeadershipIn this episode, Gemma and Fi dive into a critical yet often overlooked aspect of strategic leadership: the systems and processes that support or hinder our ability to think and act strategically. They explore how everyday interactions like meetings, communication channels, and daily routines can either facilitate or obstruct strategic goals.A key concept discussed is the RACI model, which helps define roles in a project or meeting by identifying who is Responsible, Accountable, Consulted, and Informed. This simple framework ensures that everyone knows their role, reducing confusion and enhancing efficiency. The hosts also differentiate...2024-08-2730 minThe Strategic Leader2.09 How to Manage Stress to Stay StrategicIn this episode of the Strategic Leader podcast, Gemma Bullivant and Fiona Craig discuss managing stress as a crucial aspect of strategic leadership.They begin with an analogy comparing stress management to maintaining a car's fuel level, to explain the need for regular monitoring and replenishment of personal capacity. The "stress bucket" analogy is introduced to explain how various stressors—both positive and negative—can fill our mental and emotional reserves, and need conscious actions to release and alleviate stress.The conversation introduces the three lenses approach to stress management: identifying and addressing stressors, assessing and...2024-08-0728 minThe Strategic Leader2.08 Building Core Strength: The Key to Confident LeadershipIn this episode, hosts Gemma Bullivant and Fiona Craig discuss the multifaceted nature of confidence.They address how confidence is often misunderstood as mere extroversion and bravado, but true confidence comes from a deeper sense of self-worth and capability.Fi shares her personal journey in understanding confidence, emphasising the importance of courage and the ability to act despite fear. Gemma contrasts self-esteem, which relies on external validation, with intrinsic self-worth that remains intact regardless of external outcomes.She refers to Viv Groskop's book "Happy High Status," which introduces various confidence styles, including vulnerable...2024-07-2330 minThe Strategic Leader2.07 The 3 P's to Combat PerfectionismIn this episode of the Strategic Leader podcast, hosts Gemma Bullivant and Fiona Craig discuss perfectionism and its implications for strategic leaders. The discussion begins with an exploration of personal experiences with perfectionism, highlighting the balance between maintaining high standards and avoiding the pitfalls of excessive focus on these standards. Gemma shares how her preference for action over perfection shapes her work approach, and the importance of progress and process in achieving quality outcomes.The conversation then shifts to identifying key characteristics of perfectionism, such as setting unreasonably high standards, fear of failure, and heightened...2024-07-0929 minThe Strategic Leader2.06 Managing Anxiety and Worry at WorkIn this episode we explore the tricky topic of worry and anxiety and its impact on strategic leadership.We discuss the difference between worry and anxiety, emphasising the spectrum of emotions and how these feelings can affect our ability to perform effectively in senior roles. And we discuss the importance of recognising when these emotions are beneficial and when they become detrimental.We share personal anecdotes and practical techniques to manage anxiety, such as the growth zone model, visual metaphors like the backpack of worries, and mindfulness practices, including box breathing and body awareness.2024-06-2529 minThe Strategic Leader2.05 How to procrastinate lessIn this episode of the Strategic Leader podcast, hosts Gemma Bullivant and Fiona Craig explore the topic of procrastination, and how it can get in the way of operating strategically.Fiona defines procrastination as delaying tasks without a rational reason for doing so. For Gemma, it’s when ‘the drive to delay is stronger than the drive to act’.The discussion reveals that procrastination is not about laziness or lack of capability but often linked to subconscious factors. They explore the emotional and psychological triggers behind procrastination, such as fear of failure, seeking immediate pleasure, or fee...2024-06-1130 minThe Strategic Leader2.04 How to Stop Being a People PleaserIn this episode of the Strategic Leader podcast, hosts Gemma Bullivant and Fiona Craig explore the topic of people pleasing, discussing its implications for leadership and personal well-being. They explore how the desire to be helpful and liked can often lead to prioritising others' needs at the expense of our own, ultimately hindering strategic leadership capabilities. Fiona highlights the importance of recognising when people pleasing goes too far, affecting not only the individual but also stakeholders and overall business strategy. They discuss the significance of setting boundaries and balancing personal and professional needs through assertiveness rather than...2024-05-2829 minThe Strategic Leader2.03 - How to Overcome Conflict AvoidanceIn this episode Gemma is talking to special guest Jo Bamford.We talk about the dynamics of workplace conflict and ways to embrace diverse perspectives which can lead to better outcomes. By inviting challenge, conflict can drive innovation, by prompting us to consider alternative viewpoints and solutions.Staying actively curious and active listening are essential tools for overcoming conflict avoidance and promoting constructive dialogue.A key highlight from our discussion is the insight drawn from Matthew Syed's book 'Rebel Ideas', particularly the chapter on Rebels vs Clones. Syed advocates for seeking out individuals...2024-05-1432 minThe Strategic Leader2.02 - Taming (and Reframing) your Inner CriticDoes your Inner Critic sometimes take over and stop you from operating with impact? Managing your inner critic is a critical strategic skill. In this episode we talk about its origins, impact, and strategies for transforming your inner critic into your inner guide.
We discuss how the inner critic is often a voice rooted in past experiences, offering a perspective that may no longer be relevant.
We explore the importance of discernment in listening to the inner critic's voice and introduce the concept of an "inner boardroom," where multiple perspectives, including supportive friends and evidence-based a...2024-04-3028 minThe Strategic Leader2.01 Overcoming Imposter SyndromeWe discuss the complex topic of imposter syndrome, including a discomfort with the term itself, and whether it’s even really ‘a thing’. We explore how there are blurred line between natural nervousness and the imposter syndrome term we all recognise. And we talk about what to do about the sometimes debilitating effects of low confidence, fear and nerves.
We challenge the notion of imposter syndrome as a fixed label, suggesting instead that there is a more nuanced understanding of individual experiences. Rather than trying to tackle ‘a syndrome’ which feels vague, we suggest that through self-awareness and compass...2024-04-1630 minThe Strategic Leader1.12 - Forget Gravitas. Strategic Curiosity is the real leadership skill we needIn this episode of the Strategic Leader podcast, we explore the concept of gravitas, through the lens of strategic curiosity. We share personal experiences, highlighting the significance of asking meaningful questions to foster a strategic mindset. We question the dictionary definition, that gravitas is about projecting seriousness or loftiness, but instead that it is rooted in the ability to show up with strategic curiosity.
We explore the role of active or strategic curiosity in building gravitas, and that asking thought-provoking questions demonstrates a genuine interest in others, fosters trust, and adds value to discussions. We also look a...2024-03-2030 minThe Strategic Leader1.11 - How to Operate More Strategically using the Eisenhower MatrixIn this episode we delve into the art of strategic time management using the Eisenhower matrix. They emphasise the importance of consciously planning and allocating time to enhance overall strategic effectiveness.
We discuss the four quadrants of the Eisenhower matrix:
1. Urgent and Important (Top Left): High-impact tasks requiring immediate attention, often associated with firefighting or pressing challenges.
2. Not Urgent but Important (Top Right): Crucial strategic activities that demand deep focus and thoughtful consideration.
3. Urgent but Not Important (Bottom Left): Tasks that may be delegate-worthy, enabling leaders to prioritise their high-impact responsibilities.2024-03-0529 minThe Strategic Leader1.10 - How to Align your Strategy to Business GoalsIn this episode we delve into the crucial aspect of aligning strategy with business goals. We emphasise the need for HR professionals and leaders to shift from an "inside-out" approach, where the focus is on to-do lists and internal tasks, to an "outside-in" perspective, starting with a deep understanding of the business's objectives.
We stress the importance of asking fundamental questions about the business, such as how it makes money, the phase it's in (growth, consolidation, diversification), and where it gets its business. We talk about the significance of identifying strengths and gaps in the current state...2024-02-2032 minThe Strategic Leader1.9 - How to Apply Strategic Thinking to Simple Tasks In this episode, we discuss a model that can be applied to various scenarios, from larger strategic initiatives to everyday tasks like planning a Christmas party.
We explore the "Four P's" of strategic thinking—Purpose, Pursuit, Process, and People. We emphasise the importance of understanding the purpose behind any endeavour, clarifying where one aims to go (pursuit), determining the process to achieve those goals, and identifying the people involved.
1. Purpose: Clearly define the reason for any initiative, whether strategic or routine.
2. Pursuit: Establish specific goals and objectives aligned with the overall purpose.
2024-02-0733 minThe Strategic Leader1.8 Unlocking the Power of Strategic Self-CareStrategic self-care is essential for HR professionals and leaders who want to maximize their impact.
In this podcast episode, we discuss how important it is to show up in the right way, regardless of how stressful or frustrated we might be feeling. We refer to the H.A.L.T model, which stands for Hungry, Angry, Lonely, Tired. They explore how these factors can affect our wellbeing and emotional state, our ability to make decisions, ultimately undermining our ability to be strategic.
By addressing our basic needs, such as nutrition and hydration, managing our emotions, f...2024-01-2332 minThe Strategic Leader1.7 - From Reactive to Transformational: Taking HR to the Next LevelIn this episode, we discuss the concept of HR maturity levels. We explain the transition from transactional to transformational HR practices, emphasising the importance of moving beyond routine tasks to strategic thinking.
Gemma introduces a four-level model: Reactive (Level 1), Proactive (Level 2), Strategic (Level 3), and Transformational (Level 4). The conversation explores the characteristics and challenges at each level, highlighting the need for a balance between transactional efficiency and strategic foresight.
There is more information about this model in Gemma’s blog post here
Key Points Discussed:
1. Understanding the difference between transactional and strategic HR...2024-01-0932 minThe Strategic Leader1.6 - Why HR belongs on the Executive TeamThis episode explores the challenges faced by HR in attaining a seat at the executive table, and its shift from compliance to being a crucial strategic function
We explore the pivotal role of HR in the current knowledge economy, the impact of HR's historical roots in compliance and governance, and the importance of self-awareness for HR leaders.
The episode aims to empower and inspire HR professionals and people-focused leaders to be more strategic.
Key Topics Covered:
1. Why is HR often sidelined in strategic discussions? The episode explores the historical c...2023-12-1232 minThe Strategic Leader1.5 - Exploring the Three A's of Strategic ThinkingAccording to a recent article in Harvard Business Review, strategic thinking involves acumen in understanding context, allocation of resources for optimal impact, and action that combines effective collaboration, execution, and personal wellbeing.
We invite you to consider how you can incorporate these elements into your strategic approach, bringing a balance between strategic and tactical thinking. Remember, you're likely to be already operating more strategically than you realise.
Key Points Covered:
Acumen (How You Think): - Context Awareness: Understand internal and external factors. - Insight Development: Extract meaning from context to inform dec...2023-11-2832 minThe Strategic LeaderThe Strategic Leader TrailerThis podcast explores and demystifies strategy to equip you with the tools to be naturally strategic. Our mission? To empower you to think, act and feel naturally more strategic. We help HR and people-focused leaders harness the power of strategic thinking. By merging psychology, leadership, and business acumen, we offer actionable insights, and explore the crucial connection between strategy and human motivation.2023-11-1800 minThe Strategic Leader1.4 - Overcoming Internal Barriers to Strategic ThinkingIn this episode of "The Strategic Leader," Gemma Bullivant and Fiona Craig explore the internal barriers that can hinder our ability to think and act strategically.
Have you ever asked yourself, "What if I sound stupid?" or "What if it goes wrong?" These are the questions that often loom large when we're on the cusp of transitioning from our comfort zone to the growth zone in our professional lives. They discuss the fear of sounding stupid, the discomfort of uncertainty, and the magnetic pull of our comfort zones. This insightful conversation offers practical strategies to overcome these b...2023-11-1526 minThe Strategic Leader1.3 - Why thinking strategically is important in your careerAre you looking to operate more strategically in your career?
Have you ever wondered what it truly means to be strategic, or why it's essential for career progression?
Join us in this episode as we explore the significance of strategic thinking at every career level. From understanding job leveling and its relationship with strategic thinking to practical tips for honing your strategic skills, we'll demystify strategy and empower you to excel in your professional journey.
In this episode of "The Strategic Leader" podcast, hosts Gemma Bullivant and Fiona Craig explore the concept of...2023-11-0823 minThe Strategic Leader1.2 - Crafting a Simple Yet Effective Strategy Welcome back to The Strategic Leader Podcast with your hosts, Gemma Bullivant and Fiona Craig. In this episode, we're delving deep into the art of crafting a strategy that is simple, yet highly effective.
We explore the importance of simplicity in strategy, how to differentiate a strategy from an action plan, and why it's crucial to align your strategy with the overarching goals of your business.
Do you ever wonder what it truly means to be strategic? Are you tired of overly complex strategic documents that seem impossible to decipher? Well, you're in luck! In t...2023-10-3132 minThe Strategic Leader1.1 - The 3 Essential Keys to Being StrategicIn this episode, hosts Gemma Bullivant and Fiona Craig delve into the fundamental concept of what it means to be strategic. They break down strategy into three key components: Future Focus, Breadth, and Purpose. Through engaging discussion and practical examples, they emphasize how anyone can become more naturally strategic by applying these principles to their daily work.
Show Highlights:
Gemma and Fiona introduce the podcast and emphasize that being strategic isn't as complex as it seems. They aim to demystify the concept and provide practical tips for their audience.
The Three Key Elements...2023-10-2426 min