Shows
Leadership & Life ChatFeel the fear and retire anyway! How exactly did Mark Curtis retire before 50?Four years, 131 episodes, 38 guests and three presenters later, it’s time to say goodbye to the Leadership & Life Chat ‘band’ as we know it. In this episode, original presenter, James Lay, makes a triumphant return and, alongside Becky, questions Mark on exactly how he’s been able to pre-plan and orchestrate his retirement at only 49, and the lessons he’s learnt on the way. Mark is, as always, open about his views on taking control of one's life, and recognising choices while always having a focus on a roadmap for the future, both in business and personal life. The t...2024-04-041h 11
Leadership & Life ChatLeading through anxiety – Let’s get philosophical with Garath SymondsIn this episode, Garath Symonds, the founder of Reconnect Coaching, joins Mark and Becky to discuss his upcoming book, ‘The Anxious Leader’. They explore how anxiety impacts decision-making and leadership, the importance of rational thinking and ego reflection, as well as strategies for tolerating anxiety as opposed to rejecting it. They delve into the role of meditation and self-reflection for leaders, along with managing trauma's impact and the importance of vulnerability and psychological safety in top level roles, and ultimately, embracing life’s lessons. Tune in for fascinating insights into leadership and personal growth in the pod...2024-03-2858 min
Leadership & Life ChatIt doesn’t have to be lonely at the top – with campaigner and award-winning leader, Nick JonssonYou might not think this topic applies to you – but it’s a conversation that might be important for someone you love. TRIGGER WARNING: This episode contains mention of drug addiction, depression and suicide We open the LAST EVER series of the podcast with Mark and Becky chatting to Nick Jonsson in one of our most frank, honest and powerful episodes surrounding the often brutal reality of leadership and its toll. Nick opens up about his personal journey with executive loneliness and his own ‘rock bottom’, what led him to seek help, and his path t...2024-03-1455 min
Leadership & Life ChatChaos, in theory?In this episode we talk all things chaos theory. No, not the ‘interdisciplinary area of scientific study and branch of mathematics focused on underlying patterns and deterministic laws of dynamical systems that are highly sensitive to initial conditions’ (thanks Wikipedia). Rather, how our unpredictable behaviour can impact our work and those around us. Mark and Becky discuss how there’s a difference between chaotic and energetic, how the differences impact our productivity, and how the pros and cons of what can be perceived as chaos in the workplace impact our relationships. GET IN TOUCH! We would...2024-02-0141 min
Leadership & Life ChatShould leaders be ruthless or rigorous? Examining the work of Jim CollinsWe are back for series 7! Loyal listeners will know that Mark and Becky are huge fans of Jim Collins, so they decided it was time to dive deep into his work, and look at the seven key questions he claims all leaders need to ask themselves. They outline how each question can help with recruitment and retaining our talented people! Jim once said leaders should be “rigorous, not ruthless.” Can this really be applied to success? GET IN TOUCH! We would love to hear your thoughts on today’s episode, email us at podcasts@larking-gowen.co.uk. We’d also...2024-01-1838 min
Leadership & Life ChatSilence your inner critic with coach Kamini WoodDo you think you’ve grown as a person, or as a leader, or have you allowed your challenges or failures to hold you back? Human Potential Coach Kamini Wood is passionate about helping people to understand their worth and grow their personal and professional paths, or as she puts it, “I mess with how people think!” Do you ever feel like you don’t belong? You don’t fit in? What do you allow your inner critic to tell you? Kamini started her journey into personal development after realising, as a mother of five, she needed...2023-12-141h 02
Leadership & Life ChatIQ v EQ - why it's not all about technical skillsThis week, Mark and Becky reflect on a topic which keeps coming up with their guests – the importance of emotional intelligence. They look back on their AI episodes and how the human in the loop theory will become more important in the future, extending past the technical aspects of a job, and into how to retain the people in your team; after all, people join organisations but leave managers. They discuss how EQ skills can be taught and learned, and why it’s so important for leaders to get hold of their own self-awareness, set the drum beat...2023-12-0740 min
Leadership & Life ChatPredictive is the new proactiveThe world of business is changing again and, where once we were encouraged to be proactive in our businesses, now, thanks to the advancement in AI, we might have to start being predictive – but how easy is this for humans, and will the world look like Minority Report! Mark and Becky reflect on their special roundtable chat this summer with AI experts, Alison Alexander and Alix Rübsaam, and discuss their fears around AI and the reliance that we might put on it, going forwards. They discuss the bias that will exist in the algorithms, how we must...2023-11-2334 min
Leadership & Life ChatSelling up is hard to do. What comes next? With business strategist, Dawn BloomerStudies suggest that selling your business or retiring early do not necessarily make someone happier. Dawn Bloomer, a former veterinarian turned strategic advisor, knows this all too well. Dawn guides us through her journey after selling her successful practice and finding herself adrift – she hadn’t planned what to do next! She chats to Mark and Becky about the importance of exit plans and considering ‘what comes next’. They talk about the accountability and logistics often over-looked in any move, and the toxic ‘workaholic’ culture that still exists despite its known impact on our wellbeing. Dawn prefers...2023-11-161h 11
Leadership & Life ChatWe're back for SERIES 6, with how to cultivate creativity at work!We’re back for series SIX, and what better way to start than letting Mark do what he does best – philosophise about himself! He muses around what ‘being a creative person’ really means, and how we can embrace creativity and innovation in our businesses. Mark and Becky look at how creativity can’t be forced and how the pressures of work diaries, workloads and deadlines, particularly for business owners, can stunt creativity and what impact this has on your work and wellbeing. They discuss practical ways to empower your teams and how permission to think outside the box is some...2023-11-0937 min
Leadership & Life ChatRevisiting strength, tenacity and mental fortitude for leaders in 2023‘Stuff’ happens, as Becky politely put it– but how do we deal with it now we’re all facing a new wave of challenges? There’s a lot going on; geo-political, environmental, and economic pressures and worries infringe on all our lives in some way, so Mark wants to revisit resilience. But that’s a bit of a buzz word now, so they work on the peripherals of what this encompasses, looking back on the Locus of Control technique; how you can learn, rather than defend yourself, in tricky situations; and how to avoid pity parties. They take inspira...2023-07-0635 min
Leadership & Life ChatS5 E4. Mission accomplished: Leadership lessons from former Marine, Janet PolachIt’s widely considered that the US Marine Corps is one of the best examples of leadership in the world. Veteran Janet Polach chats to Mark and Becky about how best to leverage the skills of your team and avoid being a selfish leader. They examine each step of Janet’s book, The Seven Mistakes New Managers Make, and delve into Janet’s ‘make it worse’ technique. After discussing the importance of people knowing their responsibilities and role, and the value in one-to-ones, they reflect on the impact of the transition between feedback frenzy in school, into the feedbac...2023-06-291h 01
Leadership & Life ChatCulture vs cult - what side does your leadership fall on?Mark is inspired this week by a TEDx talk which leads him to reflect on one of his favourite topics – evolution, tribes and what makes humans tick. It’s a tough question to ask yourself, but are you creating a cult or a culture? Mark and Becky discuss where the idea of culture comes from and what it really means for businesses. “Cult leaders see greatness in themselves”, whereas, if you operate as a culture, you see greatness in the team. They also discuss the impact the CEO/owner has on a culture and why active eng...2023-06-2236 min
Leadership & Life ChatHow powerful is your personal brand? – with leadership architect Mihaela BerciuWe all have a personal brand, whether we know it or not. Born in Romania, under a Communist regime, personal brand expert, Mihaela Berciu, faced more than the usual teenage worries. Simply saying the wrong thing would have landed her in a lot of trouble, but, little did she know that this lived experience, of having heightened anxiety over her own behaviour, would lead her into a post-revolutionary world. Mihaela headed to the UK, Cambridge University no less, then hosted her own tv show, and has forged her path to become a pioneer in the introduction of p...2023-06-1552 min
Leadership & Life ChatThere’s no such thing as ‘self-made’Mark loved explaining how Einstein was not great at making sandwiches this week! He didn’t grow the wheat, didn’t knead the dough, so did he really make a sandwich? The point being none of us really ever make it on our own. We’re all reliant on so many factors around us that help guide, support and ultimately achieve our success. They challenge the listener to think about whether they lean into their technical capabilities, as it’s easy to hide behind expertise, but to think about how many ‘soft-skills’ they could honestly claim to be expert in...2023-06-0828 minLeadership & Life ChatWhy self-doubt is bad for businessBecky makes a great point in this episode – “it’s only bragging if it isn’t true”. Doubting ourselves is part of our genetic makeup as humans, but we no longer need as much of a ‘fear instinct’ as our Homo sapiens predecessors – we’re fairly high on the food chain now! Context is key, and you can use this as a driver when assessing decisions you need to make as a leader. A fear of judgment can also be a barrier for businesses, so Mark and Becky let us in on what they have learnt about how to...2023-05-1842 min
Leadership & Life ChatTo volunteer or not to volunteer? That’s the question. With Voluntary NorfolkThis week, Mark and Becky connect with a local Norfolk organisation, whose insights have global relevance – why businesses should embrace a strong Corporate social responsibility (CSR) package. (And we find out who Mark’s favourite Womble is!) Voluntary Norfolk connects businesses and charitable organisations, to help businesses meet their community objectives. In previous episodes, Mark and Becky have discussed the change in what younger generations are expecting from employers, and how they now look beyond just salary in job searches. CSR forms a huge part of most company employment packages and is a key part of Employer Bran...2023-05-1151 minLeadership & Life ChatThe new office, and the generation gapWith Gen-Z now entering the workforce, how do you go about navigating the massive cultural divide that might now exist in your office? Typically, Gen-Z are no wallflowers; strong minded, often politically active and not afraid to call out inappropriate ‘banter’. They are moving into workspaces with Gen-X, millennials and even boomers, who have not had to deal with such a big cultural leap in the generational divide for some time. How you operate on a day-to-day basis may start to look different, not necessarily for better or worse, just different. Mark and Becky troubleshoot what...2023-05-0447 min
Leadership & Life ChatHonesty and authenticity in business, with ProspHER founder Serena FordhamTRIGGER WARNING – This episode contains mention of suicide Not only is Serena’s business journey inspirational, but she’s also doing important work in empowering and supporting women’s mental and career health! Shortly after facing redundancy, Serena founded ProspHER, a business providing training, practical support and mentoring for women in business, with a focus on empowerment and community. Serena is a breath of fresh air in her honesty around the challenges women often face in their careers, and how honesty, authenticity and workplace cultures are integral to success – things we know tick all of Mark and B...2023-04-271h 01Leadership & Life ChatWorking 9-5, not the only way to make a livingThis week’s episode is based around a quote from the business icon that is, Dolly Parton “Find out who you are, and do it on purpose”. Becky makes the argument that attaching your personal values to your work, makes for clearer messaging within your business, from your reputation through to recruitment. Her and Mark debate the idea of not leaving business to chance, and how living and working consciously is important, and not having your core values as part of your business plan can be detrimental to its success. GET IN TOUCH! We would love to hear yo...2023-04-2031 min
Leadership & Life ChatHow to be an AWESOME leader and achieve a great work-life balance, with coach and author Ben CoomberWhat does giving 100% really mean? For most of us, we go straight to working more, but is that really the best way forward? High performance coach Ben Coomber talks to Mark & Becky about what the reality of working ‘smarter not harder’ really involves, and addresses what leaders need to do to change and adapt to new behaviours to improve their personal and professional lives. They discuss Ben’s entrepreneurial journey; from owning more than one business, writing his bestselling book How to Live an Awesome Life, to the epiphany he had which led to his passio...2023-04-131h 11Leadership & Life ChatThe best of Kevin Kruse’s secrets to success – PART 2Back in 2016, renowned entrepreneur and New York Times Best Seller, Kevin Kruse, published a popular blog that piqued Mark’s interest, and here we are seven years later, digging through the best bits of ’15 Surprising Things Productive People Do Differently’. His points are still as relevant now as they were then. There’s so much good stuff in Kevin’s work, that this is the second of two episodes, click here to listen to PART 1 Kevin interviewed over 200 people who were considered highly productive, including billionaires, Olympians and straight-A students, and published his 15 secrets to productivity based on his fin...2023-03-3025 min
Leadership & Life ChatThe power of diversity, inclusion and coaching in leadership, with Brenda HarringtonThis week’s episode is a fascinating insight into a brilliant mind! Brenda Harrington is a business coach, founder of Adaptive Leadership Strategies, and author, who advocates for the benefits of learning and development outside of our core competencies and professions. These skills were vital for business leaders to help them ‘survive’ the COVID-19 lockdowns. This period also allowed Brenda the space to put onto paper her thoughts and lessons on diversity, empathy and inclusion in business, publishing her book Access Denied: Addressing Workplace Disparities and Discrimination. Mark and Becky are both huge fans of coachi...2023-03-231h 02Leadership & Life ChatThe best of Kevin Kruse’s secrets to success PART 1Back in 2016, renowned entrepreneur and New York Times Best Seller, Kevin Kruse, published a blog that piqued Mark’s interest, and here we are seven years later, digging through the best bits of his article, ’15 Surprising Things Productive People Do Differently’. His points are still as relevant now as they were then. Kevin interviewed over 200 people who were considered highly productive, including billionaires, Olympians and straight-A students, and published his 15 secrets to productivity based on his findings. Success can’t happen without productivity, so Mark and Becky break down their favourite secrets from the article, and how...2023-03-1631 min
Leadership & Life ChatEPISODE 100 with Ipswich Town Football Club legend David Sheepshanks CBE: Life and business at the top of the beautiful gameThis is the one hundredth podcast for Mark, after starting Impromptu Business Chat back in May 2020, and to celebrate this milestone, we needed a very special guest, and they don’t get much better than local legend (and Tractor Boy!) David Sheepshanks CBE. David was Chairman of Ipswich Town Football Club (soccer to our US listeners) during their success in the 90s, including their infamous win over Manchester United, but was also there to witness the fall into relegation out of the Premier League. He chats to Becky and life-long Ipswich Town Football Club fan, Mark, about ho...2023-03-091h 08
Leadership & Life ChatPractical guide to de-stressing with Havening Technique expert Tony BurgessSometimes stress and anxiety can get in the way of our personal or professional progress, but there are a multitude of techniques, therapies, and systems available to help us combat these barriers. One such being the Havening Technique, of which Mark is already a big fan. We welcome expert practitioner, Tony Burgess, to the pod, who gives a ‘hands-on’ practical demonstration of how this application works. Tony shows us how it impacts our brain and can help to change our lens; and relax, stimulate and unburden our minds, making way for a more positive and improved mindset. You...2023-03-021h 01Leadership & Life ChatWhat does ‘dress for success’ even mean?We’re back, and avid listeners to the pod will know that Mark loves a challenge, especially when it comes to following rules, and in the first episode of series 3 he discusses the relevance of workplace dress codes and workplace etiquette with our fabulous new co-host Becky Ames. The lockdowns of 2020 brought about many changes in how we work, least of all what we wear whilst we’re doing it, but has it changed the meaning of ‘dress for success’? Becky and Mark discuss if dress codes even matter anymore, and if they’re in place, what they repre...2023-02-2338 min
Leadership & Life ChatThe business of grief, menopause, maternity and beyond with occupational therapist Hilary HortonTRIGGER WARNING – this episode contains mentions of miscarriage, child-loss, suicide, eating disorders and self-harm. If you’re a male business leader, this episode may be of particular interest. Our special guest is occupational health specialist Hilary Horton. Hilary has decades of personal and professional experience and insight into the complexities of women’s health. She chats to Mark about how managers and business owners need to educate themselves to better support their teams. Many modern businesses haven’t kept up with societal change, and women still face barriers in the workplace, particularly around maternity leave, depression, menopause, complex...2022-12-011h 10
Leadership & Life ChatKnow your worth. How Janet Mui smashed the glass ceiling of wealth managementJanet Mui is Head of Market Analysis at RBC Brewin Dolphin, and is top of her game in a male dominated industry. Janet handles over 60 million pounds in investments and is a regular face on news channels commentating on economic issues. Having grown up in China, Janet chats to Mark not just about why wealth management is important for entrepreneurs and business leaders, but also how she had to learn to adapt to British culture in order to ‘make it’. Janet speaks frankly about her experiences as ‘the only woman in the room’, battling prejudices around ‘diversity hires’ and...2022-11-1758 min
Leadership & Life ChatBITESIZE - The Climate Crunch with Dr Mathew Hampshire-WaughIn our most popular episode to date, climate change expert Dr Mathew Hampshire-Waugh chats to James and Mark about the realities of what’s ahead, and what steps businesses can take to protect themselves. In this BITESIZE episode, we focus on Mathew outlining the history of the climate crisis and how we got to where we are, as detailed in his book, Climate change and the road to net-zero. Listen to the full episode here, or why not watch this engaging chat in full on YouTube. GET IN TOUCH! We would love to hear your th...2022-11-1014 min
Leadership & Life ChatAdapting to culture change and empathy in business with storytelling coach Jamie DixonJamie has worked with 160 multi-national companies as a corporate coach and trainer and has lived in Shanghai for 15 years. He chats to James and Mark about the profound impact Chinese culture and traditions has had on his thinking and how he delivers his work to his clients, specifically around the ideas of pragmatism, practicality and philosophy, and what he has learnt about high context communication. He reflects on his early years in China and how the language barriers made him feel vulnerable and inspired in equal measure. He shares lessons he learnt about the cultural differences in...2022-11-031h 04
Leadership & Life ChatS2 Ep6. BITESIZE Alix Rübsaam and the future of artificial intelligence in businessMark reflects on the chat earlier this year with artificial intelligence specialist, Alix Rübsaam. In this BITESIZE episode she discusses accessibility and legislation around algorithms, what businesses can do now to keep up with what’s coming, and how discrimination and bias works across apps, websites etc. She also covers avoiding compliancy around the technology whilst pursuing efficiency and outsourcing to it. This episode is the perfect buddy to last week’s chat with Alison Alexander on the metaverse. We recommend you listen to both to get a full picture of the future of tech and the in...2022-10-2714 min
Leadership & Life ChatS2 Ep4 BITESIZE Believe in yourself, with psychologist Owen Fitzpatrick and coach Paul McVeighIn this week’s bitesize episode, we look at the power of belief; belief in ourselves, in our teams, and in our businesses, but so many struggle with this. Understanding our own psychology and learning new techniques to improve our mindsets are key to making us better and more productive leaders, and indeed, people. TEDx Talk legend and psychologist Owen Fitzpatrick, and former pro-athlete turned performance coach Paul McVeigh both offered fascinating insights into these areas in their separate appearances back on Impromptu Business Chat. Mark reflects on their insights into being our better selves. Lis...2022-10-1325 min
Leadership & Life ChatWho do you think you are? Embrace your style with leadership expert Robert JordanRobert Jordan is the co-author of Right Leader, Right Time: Discover Your Leadership Style for a Winning Career and Company. CEO of InterimExecs, he has spent decades working with leading executives in business, narrowing down the four unique styles of leaders that exist in the workplace which result in excellence. He chats to James and Mark about his experience and research, and how the findings in his book can help identify what type of leader we really are, how we can harness the power of this style and reject the aspects that aren’t effective, and learn how to st...2022-10-061h 01
Leadership & Life ChatBITESIZE – The power of debriefs with former Red Arrows pilot Dan LowesIn this BITESIZE episode, we go back to April 2021 to James and Mark’s chat with former RAF Fighter Pilot and Executive Officer of the Red Arrows, Dan Lowes. Mark reflects on their conversation around the power of situational debriefs and how tick box exercises can be avoided. Debriefs help you improve communication, and gauge success, and are valuable to people at all levels, and let’s face it, if they’re good enough for the Red Arrows, they’re good enough for us and our businesses! In these clips, Dan also discusses the ‘Half error tech...2022-09-2920 min
Leadership & Life ChatHighway to the conquer zone with profit hunter Freddie BennettFreddie’s baaaack! Series 2 of Leadership & Life Chat kicks off with a former guest, professional adventurer and profit hunter, Freddie Bennett! Freddie first joined James and Mark back in early 2021 on Impromptu Business Chat, chatting about how he uses the lessons he’s learnt in life to advise and inspire businesses on how to motivate their teams and embrace change. Since then, Freddie has had some major life changes, including packing up and moving his family to New Zealand, so the team invited him back to find out why, and talk about his new book and career chang...2022-09-221h 10
Leadership & Life ChatMind your language! Your success depends on itSuccess and failure ultimately come from good or bad communication. How we verbalise our thoughts and feelings, and internalise them, affects our performance, relationships and wellbeing. James and Mark discuss what you can do to retrain your brain and learn new ways of looking at how you speak to others, and to yourself, and how focusing on this can help build your personal success as a leader. They discuss all sorts of themes, including the art of the ‘pity-party’, energy vampires, the power of verbalising thoughts, and how to deal with awkward office conversations! GET I...2022-07-2140 min
Leadership & Life ChatBITESIZE – Motivation, passion and autonomy with ‘The Business Motivator’, Susannah Brade-WaringSusannah is a member of the global business coaching platform, Mindshop, and back in 2021 received the coveted Value to Others award for European advisors. Mark describes her as the motivational map ‘Yoda’! She chats to James and Mark about how you can learn new behaviours, and how motivational maps can help you do this. In this clip they discuss the value in psychometric testing, embracing others’ ways of learning and working, and how investing in training your people will build confidence and motivation – all good for business! You can listen to the full Impromptu Business Chat epi...2022-07-1428 min
Leadership & Life Chat10. Confidence is key! Fear of failure is bad for businessConfidence is king. Success comes from being confident; we need confidence to make decisions for the betterment of both our business and personal lives. We wouldn’t marry someone unless we’re confident we love and trust them; likewise, don’t go into business with someone unless you’re confident in their skill, commitment and honesty! James and Mark discuss the current lack of confidence in society that has followed lockdown, and the negative impact a lack of confidence can have. It can be catastrophic for businesses in particular, but there are ways in which we can reprogra...2022-06-3044 minLeadership & Life ChatObstacle or opportunity? How to positively reframe your thinkingDo you view a problem as an obstacle or an opportunity? How you answer this question can define and set you apart as a leader, in life and business. Inspired by Ryan Holiday’s book The Obstacle is the Way, James and Mark dive into how fear can equal disaster in business, and how our state of mind can be reprogrammed to find the positives. There will always be problems, but how we handle them can make us stronger. We can relearn how to handle tough situations, increase motivation (which is not the same as di...2022-06-0943 min
Leadership & Life ChatBITESIZE – Positive mental health and wellbeing in business, with Louise NewbyThis week, James and Mark look back on their chat with Louise Newby, and how their conversation on mental health and wellbeing is still just as relevant now as it was back in November 2020, on their Impromptu Business Chat series. They also reflect on how this episode inspired them to put together their own Men’s Mental Health Special, in July 2021. We pull out and reflect on some highlights from the original episodes and discuss how they are relevant now when considering how to improve our leadership skills. In the clips they discuss the pot...2022-06-0224 min
Leadership & Life ChatThe Climate Crunch: Why should you care? With net-zero expert Dr Mathew Hampshire-WaughDr Mathew Hampshire-Waugh is the author of Climate change and the road to net zero but doesn’t describe himself as an environmentalist; the self-confessed ‘city boy’ simply wants to give the climate change low-down to those people not already sold on it. His book has been described as; “Blowing away the entrenched idea that solving climate change is a trade-off between the economy and environment to reveal why a twenty-year transition to NET-ZERO is a win-win for all on planet Earth”. Mathew has a science background, which led to a varied career where he worked on improving building energy efficiency...2022-05-261h 19Leadership & Life Chat4. The Attitude of Gratitude: reap the rewards of appreciationOne of the best ways to re-focus our personal resilience is completely free: practice gratitude! The impact of gratitude on our physical and mental wellbeing can never be underestimated. Both dopamine and serotonin are brain chemicals that bring proven benefits to our overall health. Experts across the globe agree that being content with what you have and aiming to ‘be better’ is the first step to success in all areas of life. James and Mark look at how to achieve meaningful gratefulness by discussing the power of journaling; the negative impact of catastrophising; the 5,4,3,2,1 method; and how embracing neuro-linguistic prog...2022-05-1933 min
Leadership & Life ChatBITESIZE – Diversity in the workplace with Andy Nichol & Sue Liburd MBEThis week, in the first of their BITESIZE episodes, James and Mark look back on their chat with Andy Nicol and Sue Liburd MBE, and how their conversation on diversity and inclusion is still just as relevant now as it was back in October 2020 on their Impromptu Business Chat series. It is, to date, their second most downloaded episode which further proves that this topic is still so pertinent, especially to business leaders. We pull out and reflect on some highlights from the original episode and discuss how they are relevant now when considering how to improve our leadership skills. I...2022-05-1223 min
Leadership & Life ChatPublic speaking power with Andrew BrammerPublic speaking is often cited as one of our biggest fears, feared more than death itself. But what if you can hone your skills and combat your fears? Is it worth the effort? Andrew Brammer is a global award-winning public speaker and fellow podcaster, who believes passionately in the power of public speaking, and the wider benefits that your new-found confidence can bring to all aspects of your life. Andrew is also the author of both Talking the Talk, and Telling the Tale, and in this episode reflects on the themes of his career and life as a storyteller that...2022-05-051h 06Leadership & Life ChatYou’ve got the power! Improve your ‘Locus of Control’Welcome to the first episode in our new series! There will be three different episode styles in this new series, our expert guest interviews, special bitesize gems, and these deep dive episodes. James and Mark will be ‘deep diving’ into a specific topic each week. If you were a listener of Impromptu Business Chat, you’ll be familiar with their casual, fun and informative discussions. Now they’ll be focusing on how listeners can further put the advice and themes they explore into action. This week, they examine our own perceptions of why things happen in our lives, whether we think...2022-04-2841 minLeadership & Life ChatNew series! LEADERSHIP & LIFE CHAT!From the team that previously brought you Impromptu Business Chat, comes the new series Leadership and Life Chat, dropping in the spring, sponsored by Larking Gowen. James and Mark will be looking at what makes a great leader and offer tips to help improve your leadership skills and wellbeing in general. In each episode, they will discuss a different topic, possibly one you may never have considered impacts your life and provide their now infamous top 3 tips on how to implement these into your everyday routines to boost your health, wealth and self! Each month, they will a...2022-03-1705 min
Leadership & Life ChatLonely this Christmas - How to cope with the pressure of ChristmasThis week’s episode is all about coping with Christmas! James and Mark look back nostalgically on bygone years, and have musical references aplenty to keep spirits up. They have been inspired by recent guest Chris Anthony, and in the spirit of Christmas, decided to devote this episode to the mantra of ‘being in service to others’ and offer their wellbeing tips for coping with the festive period. How can you actually switch off, cope with burnout, and set realistic expectations? Many will be feeling the ‘pressure of Christmas’ after another challenging year, and James and Mark are here w...2021-12-1720 min
Leadership & Life ChatLeadership in the face of Omicron: Harder, better, faster, stronger!*SPOILER ALERT* FOR NO TIME TO DIE! If you still haven’t seen the latest Bond film, please skip to 02:58! James and Mark are watching over the news this week as James’s self-imposed ‘No News November’ ends, and they discuss what the new COVID variant Omicron could mean for businesses as we head into winter. They discuss how we need to lean on the skills and lessons we have learnt during the last 18 months including how to adapt, lead by example, and empower people to take responsibility. *Please note this episode was recorded before t...2021-12-1021 min
Leadership & Life Chat'The Sober Exec' - Chris Anthony on how to navigate sobriety in corporate drinking cultureFor those in the corporate world, the festive season brings with it invitations to parties with an expectation that alcohol will be freely consumed….and you will be involved! How do you navigate these events if you’re sober? Mark and James welcome the ‘Sober Exec’ Chris Anthony to chat about navigating the corporate drinks culture. Chris talks about what life is like at the top of the corporate world; with over 25 years’ experience in the tech sector, Chris is now the Vice President of U.S. Consumer Goods at Salesforce Marketing Cloud. He stands out not only for h...2021-12-031h 03
Leadership & Life ChatIs 2021 the year of burnout in business? - Under Pressure This week, James and Mark discuss a recent UK survey which revealed that 50% of workers, from management to shop floor level are secretly hoping for a ‘fire-break’ lockdown over Christmas, as they are facing burn out. For many, 2021 feels like it’s been a longer, more stressful year than 2020, as there appears to be more work out there for businesses than expected. They are facing the perfect storm of high demand and a recruitment crisis, so it’s no wonder teams are feeling the pressure. It’s important for business leaders to understand that many people will be facing...2021-11-2623 min
Leadership & Life ChatClimate vs Commerce: 3 Sustainability Truths Every Business Should KnowWhat does sustainability REALLY mean in practical terms for business, and what does the future look like? Mark breaks down what is currently happening in big business, and what still needs to be done at both corporate and SME levels. He’s currently writing a paper on how his business (Larking Gowen!) needs to tackle sustainability, and his sources are steering away from the ‘trendy stuff’. His personal research aligns with the reports coming from COP26, that businesses play a key role in improving the environmental outlook. In making it his mission to improve practices in his own business, his ey...2021-11-1928 min
Leadership & Life ChatDoes your business stand out from the crowd? Make your business advantage sustainableJames and Mark look at the myth that is having a Unique Selling Point. Instead they focus on the business critical concept of Sustainable Competitive Advantage (SCA) and walk the listeners though a step by step process to help them identify what their SCA is. In time honoured fashion, the come up with 3 top tips and a musical link for good measure! If you are enjoying the series, we would really appreciate it if you could follow us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Audible, or wherever else you get your podcasts! You can also find all episodes on...2021-11-1223 min
Leadership & Life ChatInterview with Paul McVeigh - pursuing a growth mindsetPaul has competed in two of the most competitive industries in the world: elite sport, and performance psychology. Paul played professional football at Premier League level, for both Tottenham Hotspur and Norwich City FC. He realised though, early on in his career, that whilst he knew he wanted to play football, he also had a time limit on his career. This realisation sparked a career in his other passion—psychology. Paul is now a qualified psychologist; published author of ‘The Stupid Footballer is Dead’; and motivational speaker. He works worldwide, with companies such as Microsoft and Aviva, on per...2021-11-0545 min
Leadership & Life ChatTime Management in a hybrid-working post-covid world - The times they are a changin'James and Mark share the time management difficulties they're encountering as they return to face-to-face meetings. Many people are, for the first time, managing their workloads and diaries with a mix of face-to-face and virtual meetings, placing new challenges and stresses. How do you overcome this? As usual, James and Mark come up with 3 top tips, cross-referring to musical links whenever they can! podcasts@larking-gowen.co.uk www.larking-gowen.co.uk (c) Larking Gowen LLP 2021-10-2922 min
Leadership & Life ChatPreparing your business for sale: Fail to prepare, prepare to failIn this weeks episode of Impromptu Business Chat, Mark and James provide 3 practical tips that business owners can implement in the lead up to a sale of their business. The tips, many of which are just as valid for those business owners not looking to sell, are taken from the 9 key factors of our 'Business Sale Readiness' online diagnostic tool. It only takes 5 minutes to complete, its entirely free and the results are instant. Why not try it out here? In addition, we have prepared this handy summary of the 9 key factors for a successful sale. If you'd like to fin...2021-10-2224 min
Leadership & Life ChatNeutral thinking for positive performance: Inspiration from the late great Trevor MoawadIBC is back for series 6! Mark and James reflect on the recent World Mental Health Day and the work of the late great Trevor Moawad. We learn that saying something negative is up to 70x more powerful than thinking a positive thought, so we must be very careful what we say! In their trademark casual but informative style, they come up with 3 top tips and make references to some musical links along the way! Show note links: Mental Health week Mindset Expert Shows You How to Control Your Negative Thoughts | Trevor Moawad on Impact Theory It...2021-10-1522 min
Leadership & Life ChatSPECIAL EPISODE! Celebrating 60 episodes, our 'Diamond anniversary'In celebration of their 60-episode Diamond anniversary, James and Mark are looking back over some highlights from the past 18 months, and yes, even some of the low points, mostly consisting of Mark’s tenuous/terrible musical links! During this special episode they listen back to past clips from both the interviews and top tip episodes, demonstrating just how far they have come as presenters, learning along the way from their own, and their guest’s advice. It’s been a strange 18 months to say the least, but feedback from listeners has been so positive, that the team felt a...2021-10-0821 min
Leadership & Life ChatInterview with former RAF Fighter Pilot & Executive Officer of the Red Arrows Dan LowesWhat does it really take to work in one of the most respected and well-known military branches in the world? And what can business leaders learn from the lessons it teaches? James and Mark chat to former RAF Fighter Pilot and Executive Officer of the Red Arrows Dan Lowes, who reflects on his 16 years as a fast jet pilot and qualified weapons instructor (aka Top Gun School!) and how business leaders can learn from the resilience, mistakes, lessons and discipline it takes to make it to the Red Arrows. As he says, it’s not just about be...2021-09-241h 23
Leadership & Life ChatAttracting and retaining the best talent in a post Covid-19 lock-down worldJames and Mark chat about the huge surge in vacancies across the UK and many parts of the world. They reflect on what businesses can do to help retain and attract the best talent, providing 3 top tips along the way. They take inspiration from a recent article in Wired by Alex Christian, the experience of local chef and restaurant owner Iain McCarten, Stephen Covey's 7 Habits of Highly Effective People, and the late American actor Steve McQueen! We would love to hear from you - you can get in touch with us on podcasts@larking-gowen.co...2021-09-1720 min
Leadership & Life ChatManaging hybrid teams in a post furlough world - The future is hybrid!James and Mark chat about the new challenges facing businesses emerging from furlough with a growing need to manage hybrid teams working from home and the office. They provide 3 top tips and take inspiration from John Seddon's book Freedom From Command & Control, Jocko Willink and Leif Babin's New York Time's bestseller Extreme Ownership, and 1970's American disco group The Village People! We would love to hear from you - you can get in touch with us on podcasts@larking-gowen.co.uk. If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe and whilst you are there, we would really appreciate a 5* review, as th...2021-09-1022 min
Leadership & Life ChatMaking Work More Enjoyable, Easier & Fun - Easy like Monday morningMark and James chat about the importance of enjoying your job and the benefits this bring to business and life. As usual, they come up with 3 top tips, and along the way take inspiration from various sources including Richard Bandler & Owen Fitzpatrick's book Conversations, 301 Ways to Have Fun at Work by Dave Hemsath and Leslie Yerkes and even Lionel Richie! We would love to hear from you - you can get in touch with us on podcasts@larking-gowen.co.uk If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe and whilst you are there, we would really appreciate a 5* review, as this help...2021-09-0323 min
Leadership & Life ChatOffice energy - how to invigorate your desk job!James and Mark chat about how desk-bound workers can increase their energy levels despite the increasing demands of virtual meetings. As usual, they provide 3 top tips, and along the way they take inspiration from Aubrey Marcus' recent podcast with author and body alignment expert Aaron Alexander (episode #319), American social psychologist Amy Cuddy and James' 90's smash hit Sit Down! We would love to hear from you - you can get in touch with us on podcasts@larking-gowen.co.uk. If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe and whilst you are there, we would really appreciate a 5* review, as this he...2021-08-2724 min
Leadership & Life ChatAn Interview with Susannah Brade-Waring 'The Business Motivator'James and Mark chat to the woman known as ‘The Business Motivator.’ Susannah Brade-Waring is a renowned and trusted business advisor and coach for SME businesses. A member of the global business coaching platform, Mindshop, Susannah recently received the coveted Value to Others award for European advisors. She started out with a Master’s degree in IT from Loughborough University before becoming a Director of a start-up business, where she helped the ‘non-family’ family business build to a £10m turnover before facilitating a management buyout (MBO) in 2008. Susannah notes that for many business founders, their company is their baby...2021-08-201h 11
Leadership & Life ChatArtificial Intelligence and Business Communication - I like big butsMark and James respond to a listener suggestion to chat about the increasing use of Artificial Intelligence in business, particularly to review the hidden meanings within business communications. As usual, they provide 3 top tips, and along the way they take inspiration from FT's podcast 'Tech Tonic', Swiss psychiatrist Carl Jung, and hit US comedy Friends! We would love to hear from you - you can get in touch with us on podcasts@larking-gowen.co.uk. If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe and whilst you are there, we would really appreciate a 5* review, as this helps other people find ou...2021-08-1325 min
Leadership & Life ChatIBC053 Business, Wellbeing and Environmental Hacks: I want to ride my bicycleJames and Mark chat about the multiple benefits for businesses encouraging their teams to embrace cycling and similar activities. As usual they provide 3 top tips, and along the way they make reference to the UK government's Cycle to Work Scheme, Amsterdam's cycling culture, foxes, badgers and Katie Melua! We would love to hear from you - you can get in touch with us on podcasts@larking-gowen.co.uk. If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe and whilst you are there, we would really appreciate a 5* review, as this helps other people find our podcast! pod...2021-08-0630 min
Leadership & Life ChatConquering Covid related anxietyMark and James share their views and personal experiences of Covid induced anxiety. They offer 3 top tips to help reduce anxiety levels, and along the way they make reference to the theory of Hedonic Adaption, the book Getting Things Done by David Allen, the work of Peter Crone (AKA The Mind Architect) and the song-writing skills of family entertainer Ken Dodd! Find about more about David Allen's Getting Things Done here and Peter Crone, The Mind Architect here. We would love to hear from you - you can get in touch with us o...2021-07-3039 min
Leadership & Life ChatMen's Mental Health SpecialJames and Mark respond to a specific listener request to chat about a very important topic; Men's Mental Health. They share their personal experiences and offer ideas and practical tips to help promote better mental well-being (which are applicable regardless of gender). As usual, they sprinkle the episode with references to a mix of credible authors and speakers, along with some light-hearted musical links! Special thanks to Louise Newby at Three Eggs Training for inspiring this episode. If you would like to learn more about the work Louise does with Three Eggs, you can visit their site h...2021-07-2330 min
Leadership & Life ChatThe power of podcasts! Why should your business embrace audio? with Rob LawrenceHow we build relationships with our customers, clients and contacts during the last year has changed dramatically. Podcasts have helped many business leaders reach their audience during the pandemic. They have helped fill the void where physical connection was almost eliminated, and in celebration of their 50th episode, James and Mark decided to reflect on why they chose to start Impromptu Business Chat, and chat to their audio expert producer, and owner of Podcast Plus, Rob Lawrence, on why businesses need to embrace audio. Fundamentally podcasts are about relationships. They are also leverage in developing existing connections. Pod...2021-05-281h 21
Leadership & Life ChatEp49: Find meaning in your work: Meaningful MayMark and James chat about the benefits to business owners and their teams of adding more meaning to their businesses and lives. As usual, they end with 3 top tips, and along the way they refer to Professor Brian Cox, Motivational Maps and Limp Bizkit! We would love to hear from you – you can get in touch with us on podcasts@larking-gowen.co.uk. If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe, and whilst you’re there, we would really appreciate a 5* review, as this helps other people find our podcast! larking-gowen.co.uk Key tips timestamps: 1. Mission statement - 2:57 2. Appreciation - 7:54 3...2021-05-2119 min
Leadership & Life ChatEp48: Readjusting from furlough life: from furlough to all go!James and Mark chat about the challenge for businesses and their people returning from furlough, including changes to anxiety, confidence and motivation levels. As always they end with 3 top tips, and along the way they take inspiration from Motivational Maps, Sir Clive Woodward and Mohammad Ali. Show notes: https://www.motivationalmaps.com We would love to hear from you – you can get in touch with us on podcasts@larking-gowen.co.uk. If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe, and whilst you’re there, we would really appreciate a 5* review, as this helps other people find our podcast! larking...2021-05-1425 min
Leadership & Life ChatEp47: Do you run your business or does your business run you? Keep it simple stupid!Mark and James chat about how business owners can share in their teams anticipated changes to working practices in life after lockdown. As usual, they end up with 3 top tips, and along the way take inspiration from top business coach Brad Sugars, a strategy from the US Navy and Mark’s flawless impression of Tom Jones! We would love to hear from you - you can get in touch with us on podcasts@larking-gowen.co.uk. If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe, and whilst you're there, we would really appreciate a 5* review, as this helps other peo...2021-05-0721 min
Leadership & Life ChatEp46: An interview with Owen Fitzpatrick – a practical guide to psychology in businessMark and James welcome special guest, TEDx Talk presenter and neuro-linguistic programming (NLP) legend, Owen Fitzpatrick! They chat about the language of leadership, the science of decision making, reframing the language we use to motivate and positively influence ourselves and those around us, and how this applies to businesses! As a qualified psychologist, Owen has coached more than 10,000 clients and worked with numerous large global corporate brands to help them perform more effectively, including professional sports stars, Olympic athletes, and billionaires! Owen shares a fascinating insight into self-talk, practical neuroscience and the world of neuro-linguistic...2021-04-3054 min
Leadership & Life ChatEp45: Body language and rapport building in the video age : Look into my eyes, not around my eyes...James and Mark chat about how business owners and their teams can use body language to build rapport on video calls. As usual they provide 3 top tips, and along the way make reference to Richard Bandler (the co-founder of Neuro-Linguistic Programming), Tony Robbins and top road cyclist Peter Sagan. Show notes: NLP - eye patterns We would love to hear from you - you can get in touch with us on podcasts@larking-gowen.co.uk. If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe, and whilst you're there, we would really appreciate a 5* r...2021-04-2324 min
Leadership & Life ChatEp44: Embracing technology in business - Techno friend or technophobe?Mark and James talk about the importance of business owners challenging and embracing their use of technology. As usual they provide 3 top tips and along the way they take inspiration from The Way Home (by Mark Boyle), The Machine That Changed The World (by James P Womack, Daniel T Jones and Daniel Roos), supermarket checkouts, and Arnold Schwarzenegger. We would love to hear from you - you can get in touch with us on podcasts@larking-gowen.co.uk. If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe, and whilst you're there, we would really appreciate a 5* review, as...2021-04-1623 min
Leadership & Life ChatEp43: Family Business Success; Keep it in the familyJames and Mark share their professional experiences on the key traits of successful family businesses. They reflect on the recent Meghan and Harry "debacle" and end with 3 top tips whilst drawing inspiration from industrialist and philanthropist Andrew Carnegie, thrash metal band Anthrax and US comedy smash Modern Family. We would love to hear from you - you can get in touch with us on podcasts@larking-gowen.co.uk. If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe, and whilst you're there, we would really appreciate a 5* review, as this helps other people find our podcast! www.larking-gowen.co.uk K...2021-04-0921 min
Leadership & Life ChatEp42: Interview with professional dare-devil Freddie BennettThis episode can best be summed up by the word’s ‘inspiration’ and ‘perspiration’! James and Mark chat to special guest, and professional adventurer, Freddie Bennett. Listen to how Freddie uses the lessons he’s learnt in life to advise and inspire businesses on how to motivate their teams and embrace change. Freddie worked for many years in management consultancy, in London, but felt like an imposter in the corporate world. His talent was socialising! He grew to understand that it’s important for businesses to nurture and support their people. He’s worked with companies such as Coca Cola, Heine...2021-04-021h 14
Leadership & Life ChatEp41: Find your work life balance: Have a break, have a chit chatMark and James chat about the importance for business owners and their teams to take effective breaks to recharge their batteries. As usual, they come up with 3 top tips to help achieve this, and along the way they try out their Swedish pronunciation skills and draw inspiration from Gandhi, the benefits of meditation and the Black Eye Peas Resources mentioned in this episode: Lillördag: Sweden's workers de-stress with 'Little Saturday' Lillelordag podcast We would love to hear from you - you can get in touch with us on podcasts@larking-gowen.co...2021-03-2621 min
Leadership & Life ChatEp40: Business Life After COVID-19: Avoiding the lockdown hangoverJames and Mark chat about the likely challenges businesses will face as lockdown restrictions are eased and hopefully removed as the UK targets its "VC Day" on 21 June 2021. As usual they come up with 3 top tips to prepare businesses for the 'new normal', and along the way they take inspiration from Larking Gowen, Silicon Valley, and Madonna. We would love to hear from you - you can get in touch with us on podcasts@larking-gowen.co.uk. If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe, and whilst you're there, we would really appreciate a 5* review, as...2021-03-1220 min
Leadership & Life ChatEp39: Managing growth out of lockdown; Cash is kingJames and Mark talk about the encouraging signs coming out of lockdown and the prospect of economic recovery and growth. They provide 3 top tips to help you grow your business over the coming months by proactively managing cash flow and managing working capital. Along the way they make reference to the Toyota production system, Johnny Cash, and Mark's Fridge freezer. We would love to hear from you – you can get in touch with us on podcasts@larking-gowen.co.uk. If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe, and whilst you’re there, we would really appreciate a 5* review...2021-03-0527 min
Leadership & Life ChatEp38: Special interview episode with Damian Horner: The Dark Art of MarketingIn this special episode Mark and James pick the brains of Marketeer extraordinaire, Damian Horner. They draw out some amazing advice, tips and insights from Damian that are relevant to SME Business owners on the use of marketing and marketing strategies in the digital age. Damian has used the skills he acquired when building a career in a London marketing agency to not only advise global brands on marketing but also starts, grows and sells his own businesses. His current venture is that of founder and Chief Creative Officer for Real Vision, a global platform aimed at helping investors easily u...2021-02-261h 18
Leadership & Life ChatEp37: Improve your sleeping habits - Don't sleep on the job!James and Mark chat about the benefits of sleep for business leaders and their teams, and share 3 top tips on ways to improve the quality of our sleep. They discuss what does and doesn't work for them, and along the way refer to Ruari Fairbairns and Andy Rammage of One Year No Beer, Jon Kabat-Zinn of Full Catastrophe Living fame and The Lion Sleeps Tonight by Tight Fit! Links and resources: One Year No Beer Jon Kabat-Zinn of Full Catastrophe Living NHS Sleep Well We would love to hear from you – you can get in touch with us on podcasts@larki...2021-02-1924 min
Leadership & Life ChatEp36: Avoiding video call fatigue - I've got the video bluesJames and Mark share their experiences of the video blues. Since the first lockdown, businesses have become ever more reliant on video calls, but is it now starting to impact our metal health and wellbeing. As usual they share 3 top tips, and along the way they draw inspiration from Harvard Business Review, Jeannette (Pritchard) Pearce MBE and Huey Lewis & The News! We would love to hear from you – you can get in touch with us on podcasts@larking-gowen.co.uk. If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe, and whilst you’re there, we would really appreciate a 5* review, as this...2021-02-1220 min
Leadership & Life ChatEp35: Does self-help work? Knowledge isn't powerMark and James discuss the booming self help industry and the promises it makes to solve life's problems. Looking back on their own experiences, they come up with 3 top tips, and along the way they name check the Dalai Lama, Mark Manson and Mark's growing library. We would love to hear from you – you can get in touch with us on podcasts@larking-gowen.co.uk. If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe, and whilst you’re there, we would really appreciate a 5* review, as this helps other people find our podcast! larking-gowen.co.uk ...2021-02-0522 min
Leadership & Life ChatEp34: Special interview episode with Simon Mundie Mark and James welcome broadcaster and presenter Simon Mundie. Simon has been a presenter on BBC Radio 1, and has covered sporting events like Wimbledon as well as a number of large music events. In more recent years, Simon has been hosting BBC Radio 4’s critically acclaimed Don’t Tell Me The Score, which uses sport to explore life’s bigger questions. He has interviewed many of the most well known and successful people on the planet including Caitlyn Jenner, Jonny Wilkinson, Michael Johnson and even a former bank robber turned professional ironman - as well as psychologists, neuroscientists and former Buddhis...2021-01-291h 15
Leadership & Life ChatEp33: The Power of Storytelling - I wanna tell you a story!James and Mark highlight the power of storytelling in business. Whether you're selling products, services or yourself, stories can make all the difference. As usual they come up with 3 top tips, and along the way they make reference to Andrew Brammer's book Telling The Tale, the late Max Bygraves and Mark's new spectacles! We would love to hear from you – you can get in touch with us on podcasts@larking-gowen.co.uk. If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe, and whilst you’re there, we would really appreciate a 5* review, as this helps other people find our podcast! Show notes...2021-01-2220 min
Leadership & Life ChatEp32: Formation of Teams - There's no "I" in team (but there is "me"!)James and Mark talk about the importance of forming effective teams in business. As usual, they come up with 3 top tips and make reference along the way to 'Good to Great' author Jim Collins, Jordan Belfort and Culture Club! We would love to hear from you – you can get in touch with us on podcasts@larking-gowen.co.uk. If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe, and whilst you’re there, we would really appreciate a 5* review, as this helps other people find our podcast! www.larking-gowen.co.uk Top tips timestamps: 1...2021-01-1521 min
Leadership & Life ChatEp31: How to succeed with New Year Resolutions - WOOP there it is!James and Mark return for season 3 with an episode focused on achieving New Year Resolutions. They build on the WOOP model introduced in episode 28, drawing reference to The Science of Wellbeing, Situational Support by J E Painter, James' sleeping attire and Mark's new knitting hobby. We would love to hear from you – you can get in touch with us on podcasts@larking-gowen.co.uk. If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe, and whilst you’re there, we would really appreciate a 5* review, as this helps other people find our podcast! www.larking-gowen.co.uk Show notes: Episode 28 - How to drive...2021-01-0824 min
Leadership & Life ChatEp30: Negotiation Skills: Everything is a negotiationMark and James talk about the importance of negotiations skills in business and in life generally. As always they provide 3 valuable top tips, and along the way they make reference to former FBI negotiator Chris Voss, hostage negotiator George Kohlriser and Return of the Mac by Mark Morrison. We would love to hear from you – you can get in touch with us on podcasts@larking-gowen.co.uk. If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe, and whilst you’re there, we would really appreciate a 5* review, as this helps other people find our podcast! www.larking-gowen.co.uk Sho...2020-12-1824 min
Leadership & Life ChatEp29: Make the right decision (part 2) - Mind over matterMark and James talk about the pitfalls of cognitive biases and how they influence decisions in business. As usual they finish with 3 top tips, and along the way they refer to Richard Branson, Status Quo and Mark's Mum! Episode 22: Make The Right Decisions - I'm not indecisive... am I? Episode 26: The Art of Listening - Come on feel the noise Predictably Irrational - Dan Ariely The Blind Spots Between Us - Gleb Tsipursky Cognitive Biases - Jerrell Forman We would love to hear from you - you can get in touch w...2020-12-1121 min
Leadership & Life ChatEp28: How to drive lasting change - a change will do you goodMark and James reflect on 2020, and look ahead to 2021 and the inevitable New Year's Eve Resolutions. They impart advice on how to make change stick for the long term, referring along the way to melting icebergs, Princess Gabriele and Mark's "B" in GCSE German! Larking Gowen's change success diagnostic tools John Kotter - Our Iceberg is Melting Gabriele Oettingen - Rethinking Positive Thinking We would love to hear from you – you can get in touch with us on podcasts@larking-gowen.co.uk. If you enjoy this episode, please subscribe, and...2020-12-0419 min
Leadership & Life ChatEp27: Interview with Louise Newby on Mental Health & WellbeingLouise Newby, an experienced educator in the world of mental health and wellbeing, joins Mark and James for this highly relevant episode. Louise has seen first hand the detrimental effect that poor mental health and lack of training and support can have on business leaders and their teams. At the end Mark and James reflect on their 3 key take-away's from the valuable insights and numerous practical tips shared by Louise. https://www.threeeggs.co.uk/ [Book] Extreme Ownership [Book] Mental Health and Well-being in The Workplace [Book] A Mind For Business by Andy Gibson [Book] Sane new w...2020-11-271h 11
Leadership & Life ChatEp25: Handling Disappointment - You can't always get want you want...James and Mark highlight the importance of handling disappointment, which is particularly relevant in the current climate with many people and businesses facing some challenging lockdown measures. As usual, they come up with 3 top tips, and along the way they make reference to Yale University studies, George Bush Snr and Mark's mildly impressive but slightly embarrassing lawn bowls career! Mentioned links; Changing Minds with Own Fitzpatrick The Science of Wellbeing course We would love to hear from you – you can get in touch with us on podcasts@larking-gowen.co.uk. If...2020-11-1321 min
Leadership & Life ChatEp23: Tackling diversity in the workplace - Special guest episode with Andy Nicol and Sue Liburd MBE Mark and James lift the lid on the important topic of diversity in the workplace and discuss what business leaders can do now to tackle this pertinent issue. Joining Mark and James this month are guest speakers from Abstract, an award-winning learning and development company that changes people’s lives. Sue Liburd MBE is an award-winning businesswoman, human capital innovation consultant and business mentor; and Andy Nicol is a former rugby union player, who represented his country for 10 years from 1991, and also played for the British Lions on two tours in New Zealand in 1993 and Australia in 2001. Andy is no...2020-10-3053 min
Leadership & Life ChatEp20: Interview with Dr Chris Mason on Leadership SuccessDr Chris Mason is a coach to the coaches. He advises businesses all over the world, as well as owning many himself, and has a PhD in Industrial and Organisational Psychology. In this podcast James and Mark pick his brains on the traits of a great leader, the importance of building capabilities and how he manages his time and energy to achieve Kaizen! At the end, James and Mark reflect on their 3 takeaways from this fascinating and valuable interview. This is the first in a set of upcoming special guest episodes, which concludes series one of Impromptu Business Chat. Jam...2020-09-251h 05
Leadership & Life ChatEp15: How bad do you want it?! - Turn your business from good to greatJames and Mark consider what differentiates great businesses from good businesses. In their usual informal but informative style they come up with 3 valuable tips drawn from the likes of Gary Player, Sir Clive Woodward and Roy Keane, whilst Mark confesses to a mild case of Tsundoku. Top tips: Tip 1 – Importance of a good work ethic: skip to 02:47 Tip 2 – Rocks and sponges: continual learning: skip to 06:50 Tip 3 - Motivation strategy: skip to 09:48 We would love to hear from you – you can get in touch with us on podcasts@larking-gowen.co.uk. If you...2020-08-2118 min
Leadership & Life ChatEp13: Trust me, I'm an employee - Improve trust within your teamMark and James reflect on the importance of trust between leaders and their teams. Using the co-founder of Netflix, Feargal Sharkey' and Mark's fashion sense, as usual, the duo come up with 3 great ideas to help build greater trust in your business. Top tips: Tip 1 – Blend your leadership style: skip to 04:50 Tip 2 – Refresh policies and procedures: skip to 09:56 Tip 3 - Trust your team to pilot change: skip to 15:18 We would love to hear from you – you can get in touch with us on podcasts@larking-gowen.co.uk. If you enjoy this e...2020-08-0720 min
Leadership & Life ChatEp12: Lancing your blind spots - Identify your weaknesses and thriveJames and Mark reflect on how ignoring your blind spots can have a painful impact on your profits. Pushing beyond Mark's teenage acne years, they call upon footballing legend Geoff Hurst, two silly bulls and a century old Japanese story to illustrate their top 3 tips. Links to the articles mentioned; Coronavirus: Safety fears over lack of translated virus advice Firms with more female executives 'perform better' Top tips: Tip 1 – Think about team style: skip to 04:24 Tip 2 – 360 feedback: skip to 09:13 Tip 3 - Perceptual positions: skip to 13:22 We would love to hear from you – you can get in touch with...2020-07-3120 min
Leadership & Life ChatEp4: Picking The Lock of Lockdown - Reopen your business after lockdownWith the phased relaxation of lockdown measures, James and Mark have an impromptu chat about how customers will react and how businesses can ensure they are making a profit as they open their doors. James summarises with 2 top tips to consider, but Mark saves the day with a third to not let the listeners down. Top tips: Tip 1 – Phased reopening, considering furlough costs: skip to 01:26 Tip 2 – Viability, footfall and average spend: skip to 05:02 Tip 3 - Added value, it's not just about the product: skip to 3.36 We would love to hear from...2020-06-0515 min
Leadership & Life ChatEp1: To Furlough and Beyond - Use the job furlough scheme effectivelyListen to Business Advisory experts, James Lay and Mark Curtis, as they bounce around some impromptu views and ideas on how to use the ‘Job Retention Scheme’, also known as the ‘UK furlough scheme’ for the maximum benefit of your business and employees, leaving you with three top tips for actions you can take. To find out more and to book your complimentary course click here. Booking closes on the 31 May 2020 and you have six months to complete the courses. Top tips: Tip 1 – Workforce planning: skip to 04:54 Tip 2 – Keeping in touch: skip to 08:0...2020-05-1417 min