Shows
Unbound | Conversations Without LimitsUnbound Tool #13: The Person Effect – Leading Through Connection, Not Control with George KohlrieserHostage negotiator, clinical psychologist, and leadership expert, George Kohlrieser, explains the ‘Person Effect’, the emotional impact we have on others through our presence, mostly communicated non-verbally. Some people naturally inspire trust, while others create distance. Find out how effective leadership goes beyond rapport to true emotional bonding, which many avoid due to past pain. When bonding leads to hurt, the brain learns to protect itself by pulling away from connection.Listen to the full episode here: https://www.liveunbound.com/podcasts/31-george-kohlrieser-applying-hostage-negotiation-tactics-in-leadership2025-07-2402 min
Unbound | Conversations Without Limits#44: All-Ireland Preview | Tipp, Cork, and the Final ShowdownIn this special episode of Unbound, hurling champions Noel Conners (former Waterford captain) and John “Bubbles” O’Dwyer (Tipperary All-Star) join host Stephen McDonnell (former Cork Captain) as they gear up for this weekend’s All-Ireland senior hurling final.Tune in as they unpack Cork’s explosive form, Tipp’s hunger for an upset, and what it takes for defenders to survive against the country’s sharpest forwards. Who will take home the cup? You’ll want to hear their takes!Join us to explore:Honest predictions: All-Ireland Hurling FinalWhy Waterford’s struggling, Tipp’s rising fastSurvivi...2025-07-1845 min
Unbound | Conversations Without Limits#43: Eline Meijer | How to Lead With What Makes You StrongStrengths-based leadership specialist Eline Meijer unpacks how to move beyond "weakness fixing" and use your strengths for ultimate growth.Eline draws on her decade of experience with CliftonStrengths and her background in psychology to demystify how we can thrive by identifying, understanding, and leading with our natural abilities.She reveals why traditional approaches to personal development and performance management often fall short and how applying a strengths-based lens benefits individuals, teams, and organisations.Join us to explore:How to leverage your strengths vs. weaknessesWhere strengths really come fromWhen strengths go too far...2025-06-2551 min
The Wilmac WireS2 Ep12 - Interaction Data, AI Blind Spots & the Future of Comms – A Conversation with Principal Analyst Jon ArnoldIn this episode of The Wilmac Wire, Emily Miller sits down with Wilmac Technologies CEO Steve McDonnell and guest analyst Jon Arnold, principal of J Arnold & Associates, for a deep-dive on what AI actually means for contact centers—and why so many businesses are still stuck at square one.From foundational data strategy to the real use cases of AI in CX, they explore the difference between hype and meaningful outcomes—and how legacy systems, dark data, and siloed infrastructure are slowing progress.Hear how Wilmac Technologies and Jon Arnold:Break down what...2025-06-1243 minUnbound | Conversations Without LimitsUnbound Tool #12 How to Show Up When You Don't Feel Like It with Eímear NooneHow do you push through your toughest days when the pressure is on and it feels like everything is going wrong? Eímear Noone, Irish composer and conductor, shares her approach to overcoming personal challenges while maintaining a high level of performance on stage. She reveals the mindset shift that helps her show up for others, even when she's not feeling her best, and how she navigates the balance between self-compassion and the drive to deliver excellence.Listen to the full episode here: https://www.liveunbound.com/podcasts/28-eimear-noone-irish-culture-mindset-breaking-barriers2025-06-0403 minThe Wilmac WireS2 Ep11 - Rethinking Enterprise Data in the Modern Contact Center Era – A Conversation with Enterprise Communications Analyst Dave MichelsIn this episode of The Wilmac Wire, Emily Miller is joined by Wilmac's CEO Steve McDonnell and Dave Michels, lead analyst at TalkingPointz.com, for a wide-ranging conversation on how contact center data is becoming the new gold standard for AI—and why legacy systems are holding organizations back.From breaking down the CRM vs. contact center debate to spotlighting how transcripts and recordings are fueling generative AI, this episode explores the evolution of enterprise communications and what it means for the future of CX.Hear how Wilmac Technologies and TalkingPointz:Explain wh...2025-05-2935 minUnbound | Conversations Without Limits#42: Alex Hutchinson | Seeking the UnknownScience journalist Alex Hutchinson explores risk, reinvention, and what drives us to seek the unknown – in sport, life, and beyond.With a rare mix of elite athletic experience and academic insight, Alex unpacks what drives high performers to grow, adapt, and keep going, especially when the path ahead isn’t clear.Whether you’re an athlete, a leader, or standing at a personal crossroads, this conversation will hit home. We explore how to navigate transitions, rebuild identity, and find meaning in challenge. This is about more than performance… It’s about purpose, curiosity, and how to rewrite...2025-05-1552 minUnbound | Conversations Without LimitsUnbound Tool #11 Fighting Disease Through Visualisation with Patrick SweeneyIn this Unbound Tool, best-selling author and entrepreneur Patrick Sweeney shares his journey of battling a rare form of leukaemia, using mental performance techniques from the Olympic Training Centre.As doctors collaborated with a Penn State expert, Patrick harnessed visualisation to strengthen his mind and body, picturing his cells as warriors fighting the disease. With the support of friends, including a local priest, and an unwavering focus on recovery, Patrick's story highlights the power of mental imagery and positive self-talk in overcoming adversity.Listen to the full episode here: https://www.liveunbound...2025-05-0704 min
Unbound | Conversations Without Limits#41: Karen Eber | How to Influence & Inspire Through StorytellingKaren Eber breaks down the science of storytelling and why it’s the secret weapon for influence, connection, and driving real change.Karen shares how the right story can shape teams, inspire action, and build stronger relationships. Whether you're leading a company, managing a team, or just want to communicate more effectively, this conversation is packed with insights you can apply instantly.Join us to explore:How childhood shaped Karen’s storytellingKey ingredients of a relatable storyWhy our brains crave great storiesTurning data into engaging narrativesLeadership lessons through storytellingPlea...2025-04-0852 min
The Loud CrowdEp57 - Stephen McDonnellComing up on this week’s episode of The Loud Crowd Podcast, we’re sitting down with a man who has lived and breathed football at every level. From stepping onto the pitch at Celtic Park to leading teams from the dugout, Stephen McDonnell has lived every side of the game. In this episode, he takes us through his incredible footballing journey—the highs, the lows, and the lessons learned along the way.We dive into his early days at Quay Celtic, his move to Glasgow Celtic, and what it was like to captain Irelan...2025-03-271h 59Unbound | Conversations Without LimitsUnbound Tool #10 The Mental Cost of Constant Virtual Connectivity with Sarah McKayWhat happens when technology takes the place of real-world interactions? In this Unbound Tool, Sarah McKay reveals the impact of digital life on our well-being, touching on everything from social media addiction to the loss of authentic communication. As our reliance on virtual connections grows, Sarah warns of the mental health consequences and the decline of meaningful face-to-face relationships.Check the full episode here: https://www.liveunbound.com/podcasts/27-neuroscience-managing-tech-consumption-digital-overload 2025-03-2606 minUnbound | Conversations Without LimitsUnbound Tool #9 How to Create and Maintain Powerful Connections with Jordan HarbingerWhat if you could build a network based on trust and mutual respect, without ever asking for anything in return? Jordan Harbinger breaks down the art of relationship-building in a way that is both practical and meaningful. Tune in to learn how you can use these techniques in your own life to cultivate deeper connections and open doors you didn’t even know existed.Check the full episode here: https://www.liveunbound.com/podcasts/using-psychological-tactics-to-win-in-life2025-03-1903 min
Unbound | Conversations Without Limits#40: Robin Dunbar | The Science of Human Connection and EvolutionRobin Dunbar, a renowned anthropologist and evolutionary psychologist, delves into human connection and the evolution of social structures. He is widely known for devising "Dunbar’s Number," which explores how early life in culturally diverse environments shaped his understanding of the social complexities in monkeys, apes, and humans.From his groundbreaking studies on sociability in primates to human evolution, Robin illuminates the parallels between our primate cousins and contemporary human society, revealing how these insights contribute to our understanding of relationships today. Join us to explore:Human vs. primate social structuresDunbar’s Num...2025-02-261h 09Unbound | Conversations Without LimitsUnbound Tool #8 123 Days Alone: Finding Joy in the StruggleIn this Unbound Tool, we explore the profound power of inner dialogue and how it shapes our mental and emotional well-being. Woniya Thibeault shares her unique experience of spending months in complete solitude, confronting the thoughts and stories that surfaced in her mind. Tune in to discover how small wins, rituals, and intentional positivity can transform the way we navigate life's challenges.Check the full episode here: https://www.liveunbound.com/podcasts/lessons-from-the-edge-of-life2025-02-0604 min
Unbound | Conversations Without Limits#39: Marc Brackett | Harnessing Emotional Intelligence in Life and LeadershipMarc Brackett discusses the impact of negativity bias, extroversion vs. introversion, and the key role of emotional intelligence in leadership. He dives deep into the effects of social comparison on mental health, advocating for self-compassion and empathy to tackle these emotional challenges.Drawing from personal and professional experiences, Marc shares actionable insights for breaking negative emotional loops, fostering emotional awareness, and redefining societal biases around success and happiness.Join us to explore:Social media’s impact on anxietyBalancing introversion and extroversionTools for emotional healingLeadership through emotional intelligenceStrategies to manage emotions...2025-01-2455 minUnbound | Conversations Without LimitsUnbound Tool #7 Mastering the “Five Mountains” in 2025 with Mark DivineMark Divine, former Navy SEAL commander, reveals how mastering physical, mental, emotional, intuitional, and spiritual aspects, which make up the "Five Mountains", can lead to extraordinary resilience and self-mastery. Mark’s insights have reshaped the way many perceive personal transformation and leadership.Check the full episode here: https://www.liveunbound.com/podcasts/feeding-the-courage-wolf2025-01-0906 minUnbound | Conversations Without LimitsUnbound Tool #6 Harvest your learnings from 2024 with Rupal PatelRupal Patel, a former CIA intelligence analyst, has developed an annual tradition called the "Capture Your Year" exercise. This method helps to recognise unacknowledged achievements and identify areas for improvement. Plus, we’ll discuss the importance of sharing these insights with others for mutual growth and reinforcement. Make sure to listen in for actionable tips that can transform how you approach your yearly goals and planning.Check the full episode here: https://www.liveunbound.com/podcasts/the-cia-toolkit-for-life2025-01-0203 min
Unbound | Conversations Without Limits#38: Dr. Alia Bojilova | Increase your Resilience with former SAS PsychologistDr. Alia Bojilova, former special forces psychologist and resilience expert, unpacks human behaviour and psychological resilience. Discover how Dr. Alia Bojilova uses psychological profiling, micro observations, and interviews to predict individuals' capabilities and how she’s redefining resilience through her book ‘The Resilience Toolkit’.Join us to explore:Predicting behaviour in high-stress settingsThe four pillars of resilienceAchieving a balanced perspectiveSelf-worth and personal values"Bouncing forward" and redefining resiliencePlease email stephen@liveunbound.com if you have any questions about what we discussed today.Like this sh...2024-12-1950 minUnbound | Conversations Without LimitsUnbound Tool #5 Rebuilding from Rock Bottom with Megan HenryMegan Henry is a lifelong athlete playing two Division 1 sports, field hockey and track, who faced an unexpected health crisis that abruptly ended her competitive career. She shares her journey through isolation, depression, and identity loss and how she built mental resilience and used visualisation and routine to get through the darkest days. Whether you're facing a personal setback or searching for tools to strengthen your mindset, this episode offers actionable strategies to rebuild yourself in whatever situation you find yourself in.Check the full episode here: https://www.liveunbound.com/podcasts/the-power-of-the-mind2024-12-1106 min
Unbound | Conversations Without Limits#37: Dr. Sarah Sarkis | Curiosity as a Catalyst for GrowthDr. Sarah Sarkis, a clinical psychologist and high-performance coach, dives into her journey of relentless curiosity and its transformative power.In this episode, Dr. Sarah Sarkis shares a memorable childhood experience that sparked her lifelong intrigue with psychology and how curiosity has become her primary strength. She shares how to use curiosity to combat monotony, develop self-awareness, and create meaningful change both in personal development and organisational culture. Join us to explore:Leveraging curiosity to overcome fear The importance of self-awareness in lifeUsing breathwork and movement for focusThe role of leadership in...2024-12-041h 03Unbound | Conversations Without LimitsUnbound Tool #4 Overcoming Fear with Damian BrowneIn facing immense challenges, Damian Browne teaches us to be aware of ourselves and get out of the victim mentality. Tune into this week’s Unbound Tool to discover how to starve fear and feed courage.Check the full episode here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XSjHus7MpoM2024-11-2903 min
Unbound | Conversations Without Limits#36: Chris Voss | Good Things Happen When You Run To TroubleChris Voss, a former FBI hostage negotiator, unpacks high-stakes hostage negotiations and effective communication strategies in life and leadership.Chris has taught negotiation courses at Harvard and Georgetown Universities and is the author of “Never Split the Difference”. Chris explains how to use empathy, specific key questions, proactive listening, emotional processing and more to ensure you reach the best possible outcome in any complicated conversation. We even explored how Chris would navigate a negotiation with Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Vladimir Putin!Chris also shares the magic of why showing up – no matter the chaos – is what life is...2024-11-2056 min
Kicking Match: An Irish League PodcastGlenavon Managerial Switch: Paddy McLaughlin takes over as Stephen McDonnell departsMichael Scott, Editor of Newry Reporter & Banbridge Chronicle joins the pod to react to the news of Glenavon making a big switch in their dugout.
After failing to win in their past seven matches, Stephen McDonnell was releveled of his managerial duties after a short spell of just over a year in charge.
A mere day later Glenavon named former Derry City assistant manager Paddy McLaughlin as the new man to take over.
Elsewhere, Linfield take pole position in the title race as they finally win out against Larne and there are big w...2024-11-181h 23Unbound | Conversations Without LimitsUnbound Tool #3 Design Conditions that Drive Team Performance with Ruth WagemanRuth Wageman is among the foremost scholars and practitioners studying and working with teams, especially leadership teams. In this clip, we share the three essential conditions for team effectiveness, drawing on research and practical examples from diverse fields including healthcare, aviation, and emergency services.Check the full episode here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0IE7Tdp0cCc2024-11-1304 min
Realizing Real EstateRealizing Real Estate: Episode 12 - Robert McDonnell & Stephen FitzmauriceOn this episode of Realizing Real Estate, Peter Hunt chats with Robert McDonnell, President of HUNT Commercial, and Stephen Fitzmaurice, adjunct professor at the University of Buffalo School of Architecture & Planning. Listen now as Peter, Robert, and Stephen discuss the impact of the pandemic on commercial real estate over the last few years. 2024-11-0811 min
Unbound | Conversations Without Limits#35: Tim Fletcher | Redefining Connection, Trauma and HealingA pioneer in the addictions and mental health treatment profession, Tim Fletcher delves into the journey of trauma, healing and self-discovery.We'll unpack “Big T" and "Little t" traumas, the power of feeling inherently valued, generational trauma, and discuss the importance of authentic connection, both with ourselves and others.Whether you're dealing with trauma, seeking deeper connections, or striving for personal growth, this episode offers invaluable wisdom.Join us to explore:What is 'Big T' and 'Little t' Trauma?Generational trauma Why connection is crucial for dev...2024-11-0655 minThe Wilmac WireEp19: Steve McDonnell Speaking from Experience at Golisano Institute for Business & EntrepreneurshipCatch CEO Steve McDonnell at Golisano Institute’s 'Speaking from Experience' series, where he dives into his journey from sales to CEO, the growth of Wilmac, and how AI is reshaping customer service. Steve brings Wilmac’s hands-on philosophy to life, sharing real-world lessons in persistence, finding great mentors, and building tech that truly supports customers. Learn how Wilmac is leading the way in Rochester’s tech scene, making a real impact in customer experience. In This Episode:[0:36] Steve McDonnell's career journey from sales to CEO[5:09] The hi...2024-10-311h 12Unbound | Conversations Without LimitsUnbound Tool #2 Lessons from a CIA Agent: The Best Way to Lead with Rupal PatelAs a CIA officer, Rupal's job was to analyse intelligence and brief high-level officials, from Presidents to generals. It taught her the power of communicating complex information to a whole range of audiences. Tune in to this clip, as Rupal shares why it’s not about having all the answers but seeking them out and how to be direct with others about your knowledge gaps.Check the full episode here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wcsKIk02W7Y2024-10-3007 min
The extratime Football PodcastThe extratime Voice Notes Podcast - Season 2 - Episode 49 - The title race continues - Stephen McPhail - Paul Crowley - Jon Flanagan - Johnny McDonnellSend your your thoughts, opinions or feedback on any topics discussed on our podcastsOn this edition of the Voice Notes podcast with Oisin Langan, we hear from:Paul Crowley and Stephen McPhail on Drogheda United's defeat to Shamrock Rovers.Jon Flanagan on Dundalk's devastation and Derry City's winJohnny McDonnell on St. Patrick's Athletic win over Galway UnitedSupport the show2024-10-1915 minUnbound | Conversations Without LimitsUnbound Tool #1 Your Toolkit for Psychological SafetyIn these minisodes, I pick key tools from previous episodes. This clip comes from episode 33 with Dr David Burkus, author and renowned organisational psychologist. Tune in as he unpacks how to build psychological safety in teams, and his recommended toolkit with where to begin. Listen to the full episode here: https://www.liveunbound.com/podcasts/33-dr-david-burkus-how-to-build-a-high-performing-team2024-10-1405 minThe Wilmac WireEp17: Industry Round Up and a Busy Upcoming October with Steve McDonnell & Emily MillerIn this episode of The Wilmac Wire, Emily Miller sits down with Wilmac Technologies' President and CEO, Steve McDonnell, for a conversation on industry trends and Wilmac's busy October schedule. They dive into important topics around AI, workforce management, and what's happening at Wilmac.What You'll Learn:AI and Data Privacy (1:03): What the latest lawsuits mean for the contact center space and the future of AI.Workforce Management (WFM) (5:08): Why more organizations are turning to advanced WFM solutions and how the public safety sector can benefit.Omnichannel Contact Centers (12:04): Why...2024-10-0332 min
Unbound | Conversations Without Limits#34: Amy Edmondson | Creating High-Performance CulturesExpert leadership scholar Amy Edmondson unpacks psychological safety, the need for belonging, and overcoming imposter syndrome in teams.In this episode, we delve into toxic positivity, the balance between realism and optimism in leadership, and notable case studies like the "Miracle on Ice". In her books ‘Teaming’ and ‘The Fearless Organization’, Amy explains the critical role of psychological safety in fostering effective teamwork. We discuss her reflections on belonging, imposter syndrome, and her practical advice for creating supportive work environments.Join us to explore:High-performance environmentsWhat is ‘Toxic Positivity’?The ‘Stop, Challenge, Choose’ modelOvercoming imposter syndrom...2024-09-251h 07
Unbound | Conversations Without Limits#33: Dr David Burkus | How to Build a High-Performing TeamRenowned organisational psychologist Dr David Burkus unpacks how to enhance team performance and create meaningful work environments.Tune in as David shares invaluable insights on the importance of collecting stories of impact, conducting the "It's a Wonderful Life" test, and fostering a sense of value and belonging within teams. We'll also dive into the challenges of hybrid work models, understanding cultural differences, and the significance of psychological safety.Join us to explore:Having a ‘Prosocial’ purposeBuilding psychological safety in teams“It's a Wonderful Life" TestCollecting stories of impactGlobal collaboration in the modern workplace...2024-09-1150 min
Wayne's Comics PodcastInterview with Patrick McDonnellThe creator of the beloved comic strip Mutts, Patrick McDonnell, is here this week in Episode #657 as we discuss his newest book release, Breaking the Chain: The Guard Dog Story, now available in all great bookstores and local comics shops! Patrick’s book, which presents this story in color for the very first time, is described this way: “The syndicated comic strip Mutts features the adventures of Mooch, the curious cat, and Earl, the ever-trusting dog. In 1995, McDonnell introduced a new character in Mutts: Guard Dog, a chained dog longing for his freedom. Now available, Abrams...2024-09-0844 minUnbound | Conversations Without Limits#32: Nuala Walsh | How to Make World Class DecisionsIn a fast-paced, noisy, and overloaded world, Behavioral Scientist Nuala Walsh explains why we tune out what matters and how we can "tune in" and leverage the insights we need to become more decisive and impactful leaders.Nuala shares her framework for identifying and overcoming the 200+ biases that can sabotage even the most seasoned leaders. From power-based traps to ego-based biases, you'll discover 18 science-backed techniques to "outsmart your own mind" and make better choices under pressure.Join us to explore:Strategies for decisive leadershipHigh achievers, happiness and the OlympicsCutting through the...2024-08-2153 minUnbound | Conversations Without Limits#31: George Kohlrieser | Applying hostage negotiation tactics in leadershipHostage negotiator, clinical psychologist, and leadership expert George Kohlrieser has an unconventional approach to developing high-performing leaders - one that explores the impact of fear, loss, and personal transformation.George shares how his experiences on the front lines of crisis negotiation have given him a perspective into the power of communication and strong connections in effective leadership.Join us to explore:Avoid holding yourself hostage to fears and limiting beliefsPsychological safety in effective leadershipPain as a pathway to high performanceAddressing loss and griefApplying the principles of hostage negotiation2024-07-2453 minUnbound | Conversations Without Limits#30: Whitney Johnson | Disrupt YourselfWhat if achieving mastery was simply a matter of navigating the predictable stages of growth mapped by the S-curve model? Whitney Johnson, CEO of Disruption Advisors, introduces the S-curve model for mastering personal and professional growth. She guides us through this framework, offering practical examples and real-life cases to illustrate its application.Join us to explore:How to apply the S-Curve modelMentorship & self-assessmentRecognising your current growth stage The 7 accelerants of disruptionSmart growth vs dumb growthCalm down, don't slow downPlease email stephen@liveunbound.com if you...2024-07-1050 minThe Wilmac WireThe Wilmac Wire Ep9: Steve on 13WHAM & Wilmac's EvolutionThis week on the Wilmac Wire, we hear from Emily Miller as she shares a recent interview with Wilmac's President & CEO Stephen McDonnell that was a part of Rochester news station 13WHAM's Geared for Growth segment. From there, she dives into what Wilmac does as a software company and how Wilmac has evolved to get into the business we're in today.As an uncut episode, you'll get an authentic view into what Wilmac does - because it can be confusing to understand - and what Wilmac is focusing its growth on.Emily Miller...2024-06-2718 min