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The Dynamic Leader Podcast

The Dynamic Leader Podcast

By Shelley Flett

In season #3 we continue speaking with experts and sharing insights around the future of leadership, the importance of communication, building capability through people, remaining curious and transforming the way we approach work to become more effective and ultimately, more dynamic.

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Episode #109. Interview with Richard Newman on communicating with impact

The Dynamic Leader PodcastAug 31, 2022

00:00
51:58
Episode #184. Interview with Casey Buttler about her operational leadership journey
Mar 27, 202438:32
Episode #183. Interview with Dan Tocchini on dealing with challenging conversations and taking responsibility
Mar 20, 202450:47
Episode #182. Interview with Amit and Kumar Ramlall on what it means to leverage unique strengths
Mar 20, 202447:13
Episode #181. Interview with Cortney McDermott on using time effectively
Mar 05, 202442:38
Episode #180. Interview with Mirella Petrucci on wellbeing
Feb 28, 202438:23
Episode #179. Interview with Lyndal Hamwood on inclusion & innovation
Feb 20, 202439:49
Episode #178. Interview with Dimitra Panagos on loving what you do
Feb 14, 202436:26
Episode #177. Interview with Sophia Kristjansson on connection and belonging
Feb 14, 202449:29
Episode #176. Interview with Ashley Fell on a decade of reflection with McCrindle

Episode #176. Interview with Ashley Fell on a decade of reflection with McCrindle

In this episode, Shelley engages in a profound conversation with Ashley Fell, a distinguished social researcher, author, TED X speaker and Director of Advisory at the globally recognised McCrindle. Celebrating her decade-long journey with McCrindle, Ashley reflects on the ebbs and flows, or 'tensions,' that have shaped her experiences within the organisation.

With a focus on the evolution of her role, Ashley shares insights into the intricacies of navigating the dynamic landscape of a research-focused career. Emphasising the concept of tension, Ashley shares valuable perspectives on communication, advocating for a balanced approach by recognising that life unfolds in the midst of tensions—where nothing is purely good or bad, and many situations are not either/or but rather both/and.

This episode unfolds as a rich exploration of a decade of reflection, offering listeners a unique glimpse into Ashley's journey and the wisdom she has gained along the way.


As a bonus...here are Ashley's 10 reflections after 10 years:


1. Life is lived in the tension: Nothing is all good or all bad, a lot of things are not either/or, but rather both/and. Recognising that every situation has benefits and challenges is helpful to remember.

2. Say yes to opportunities that scare you: It’s okay to feel scared and like an imposter when taking on something new, but know those feelings can be overcome and don’t let them stop you. We grow the most when we are out of our comfort zone and we rarely ever feel ready, so say yes and learn along the way.

3. Great colleagues are invaluable: We spend a third of our day at work, so getting along with colleagues is not only helpful for your work but for your wellbeing and sense of community. And if you’re lucky, can also lead to great friendships.

4. People underestimating you can be a blessing in disguise: It might seem counter intuitive, but low expectations can actually play to your favour, allowing you to prove people wrong and exceed their expectations. 

5. Words of encouragement should not be undervalued: A kind word to someone has the power to put a smile on their face, brighten their day and have greater impacts on them than you might ever realise.

6. Progress, not perfection: Perfection is a myth that stops us from getting things done. Your first attempt at something is rarely good. And that’s totally fine. It gives you something to build off of. Don’t let imperfection stop you from trying at all.

7. Regular rest is essential: Big holidays are amazing and you should definitely take them, but regular rhythms of rest (daily, weekly) are vital to a sustainable career.

8. Reading is a secret power: Non-fiction can teach us so much and so can fiction as it allows us to grow in empathy. I’m also a firm believer that reading makes you a better communicator.

9. Learning takes place through osmosis: Formal learning opportunities are awesome, but don’t forget about the passive learning that takes place by being around others. Although it often takes place without you knowing it, putting yourself in the orbit of people you respect is a great way to learn. 

10. Don’t forget to laugh along the way: Humour connects us. I’ve found the moments of laughter are the ones that I remember. Humour is worth pursuing - in presentations, the workplace and in relationships. Having fun along the way is important. 

She thanks all those who have had an impact on her and her career so far. Especially Mark McCrindle who has modelled empowering and enlarging leadership so well. 🙏

Connect with Ashley: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashleyfell1/ McCrindle website: https://mccrindle.com.au/
The Future Report Podcast:  https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/thefuturereport

Connect with Shelley: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelleyflett/⁠⁠

Work with Shelley: ⁠⁠https://shelleyflett.com ⁠

Jan 30, 202445:09
Episode #175. Interview with Melissa van der Burgt on leadership lessons learnt
Jan 23, 202448:09
Episode #174. Interview with Bette Safour on leading in a contact centre environment
Jan 16, 202442:03
Episode #173. Adopting a mindset of curiosity webinar with Fran Southward from Auscontact Association
Jan 09, 202401:00:53
Episode #172 - Welcome to Season 5 with Shelley Flett
Jan 02, 202415:04
Episode #171 - Final episode of Season 4 with Shelley Flett
Dec 26, 202314:01
Episode #170. Interview with Nicki Ursu on our role and responsibilities as leaders

Episode #170. Interview with Nicki Ursu on our role and responsibilities as leaders

In this episode, Shelley chats with Nicki Ursu on our role and responsibilities as leaders.

Nicki, a seasoned Director of People and Culture in the health sector with 15 years of leadership experience, brings a wealth of passion for leadership to her role. Beyond her professional commitments, Nicki also runs a side hustle as a coach and facilitator for leaders, underscoring her deep dedication to the development of effective leadership skills.

The connection between Shelley and Nicki blossomed during a Neurolinguistic programming course, where Shelley, as an assistant facilitator, offered feedback to Nicki, who was a participant. Nicki shares that despite initial discomfort, the feedback was delivered with consideration and kindness and it left a lasting impression.

This experience became a pivotal lesson for Nicki, emphasising the importance of providing feedback as a leader without micromanaging the outcome. Nicki stresses the significance of offering feedback in a way that fosters growth rather than shame, allowing individuals the space to reflect and genuinely desire personal development. This transformative experience has shaped Nicki's leadership philosophy, highlighting the power of seeking permission to share feedback as an integral aspect of leadership for fostering growth and personal development.

Connect with Nicki: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickiursu/

Connect with Shelley: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelleyflett/⁠⁠

Work with Shelley: ⁠⁠https://shelleyflett.com ⁠

Dec 20, 202342:34
Episode #168. Interview with Daniele Iezzi on transforming contact centres
Dec 13, 202349:05
Episode #169. Interview with Deanna Cooney on verbal communication
Dec 12, 202352:54
Episode #167. Interview with Karen Stein on leadership coaching.
Nov 29, 202350:43
Episode #166. Interview with Jamie Anderson on mentorship
Nov 22, 202341:52
Episode #165. Interview with David Fish on strategic storytelling
Nov 14, 202350:47
Episode #164. Interview with Adam Bennett on leading strategy & transformation
Nov 09, 202350:36
Episode #163. Interview with Kim O’Keeffe on Anything is Possible
Nov 01, 202339:56
Episode #162. Interview with Grayson James on effective collaboration

Episode #162. Interview with Grayson James on effective collaboration

In this episode, Shelley speaks with Grayson James, a seasoned expert with over three decades of experience assisting Executives, Boards and Senior Management teams in enhancing their collaborative business performance.

A common misconception is that effective collaboration hinges on the level of cooperation exhibited by our colleagues—a notion Grayson opposes, considering it a costly oversight. To Shelley, the term 'collaboration' is often carelessly tossed around in many workplaces. Grayson simplifies it to 'working together with other people to get important stuff done,' an essence critical to the existence of organisations.

Delving deeper, they consider whether the rising emphasis on collaboration aligns with a decline in hierarchical structures. Grayson has seen a shift over recent years in the nature of interactions and expectations, steering away from the top-down command and control model, which does not fly anymore, especially by the younger generation.

Embracing a collaborative leadership approach, Grayson acknowledges the necessity of command and control, consensus, or even no consensus, depending on the given context.

The true challenge lies in how we discern what is needed at this time and to pivot and respond effectively in the given situation’.


Grab a copy of Graysons book: Full Contact Performance: The Internal Art of Organizational Collaboration. Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Full-Contact-Performance-Organizational-Collaboration/dp/1803412518

Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/full-contact-performance-grayson-james/1142627370?ean=9781803412511

Indiebound Books: https://bookshop.org/p/books/full-contact-performance-the-internal-art-of-organizational-collaboration-grayson-james/19039197?ean=9781803412511

Connect with Grayson: linkedin.com/in/graysonjames Connect with Shelley: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelleyflett/⁠⁠ Work with Shelley: ⁠⁠https://shelleyflett.com ⁠

Oct 25, 202349:50
Episode #161. Interview with Ella Zhang on the link between self-care and success

Episode #161. Interview with Ella Zhang on the link between self-care and success

In this thought-provoking episode, Shelley engages in a conversation with Ella Zhang, a dedicated strategic change maker, facilitator and executive coach with extensive experience in both fortune 100 companies and start-ups.


The focus of their discussion is the profound link between self-care and success, delving into the correlation between inward self-awareness and its profound impact on outward outcomes. Ella, the author of the book 'Upgrade,' passionately explores how our thoughts, emotions and actions bear direct consequences that ripple across our organisations and interpersonal dynamics. She advocates that understanding this crucial link between self-care and success is paramount for modern leaders.


The emergence of self-reflection and personal growth in leadership development has gained momentum in recent years. Ella emphasises the need to intertwine professional and personal development, gaining insights into our own cognitive and behavioural patterns to prevent self-sabotage. Often the challenges we are facing are not from the outside world, but self-imposed. It is through overcoming and 'upgrading' these challenges, adjusting our habitual reactions, that we can enhance our effectiveness as leaders.


She underlines the essential aspect of managing and taking ownership of our time, energy and performance to become the inspirational leaders that others need us to be.


Grab a copy of Ella's book 'Upgrade': Ellazhang.com.au/book  Connect with Ella: linkedin.com/in/ellazhangsyd 

Connect with Shelley: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelleyflett/⁠⁠

Work with Shelley: ⁠⁠https://shelleyflett.com ⁠

Oct 18, 202339:39
Episode #160. Interview with Lisa Carlin on working within your culture

Episode #160. Interview with Lisa Carlin on working within your culture

Culture is something we could endlessly explore, there are so many different perspectives and opinions.


In this episode, Shelley talks with Lisa Carlin about working within your culture, as opposed to changing it.


Lisa is a strategy execution specialist and the co-founder of Future Builders Group, a network of organisational development specialists.  She works with Leaders to turbo charge their transformation projects and change.


Strategy execution, Transformation, Change, Projects, implementation, cultural change, digital transformation – these words all mean something slightly different and they mean something different to each individual. They all motivate a feeling of ‘let’s do something significant to move forward’.


Lisa’s first step to developing her transformation journey began in South Africa the 1990's when she started working in systems development. This encouraged a curiosity in change management. Following this, she started working for McKinsey on strategy projects. The firm delivered amazing strategy work, but just like systems development, didn’t always go as planned because due to people.


After moving to Australia, Lisa started working for a culture change organisation where ideas from a transcendental, meditation movement where used to developed ‘culture in the workplace’.  Culture was not used or understood in the workplace in these years and it inspired Lisa to start her own business combining all the different skills learnt over the years.


Lisa's learnings in strategy, technology, culture and people work, led her to create a multidisciplinary transformation perspective.


There are three stages to multidisciplinary transformation and Lisa will guide you through these during the conversation.


Connect with Lisa: Subscribe to Turbocharge Weekly or 17 top transformation tips. Connect with Shelley: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelleyflett/⁠⁠

Work with Shelley: ⁠⁠https://shelleyflett.com ⁠


Oct 11, 202341:43
Episode #159. Interview with Mei Ouw and Kylie Ryan about how emotions impact the way we lead
Sep 27, 202346:47
Episode #158. Interview with Wayne Schembri on transitioning to a new role
Sep 20, 202349:38
Episode #157. Interview with Brett Lillie on rediscovering your athlete within

Episode #157. Interview with Brett Lillie on rediscovering your athlete within

Sep 13, 202347:04
Episode #156. Interview with Nina Mapson Bone on meaningful work
Sep 08, 202342:19
Episode #155. Interview with Max Ginpil on executive leadership
Aug 30, 202334:59
Episode #154. Interview with Peter Baines on why leadership matters
Aug 23, 202349:44
Episode #153. Interview with Michael Clark on customer experience
Aug 15, 202351:53
Episode #152. Interview with Jacqueline Farrington on motivating people through stories
Aug 09, 202343:19
Episode #151. Interview with Leah Mether on leading courageously through change
Aug 02, 202351:41
Episode #150. Part Three on Feedback with Dwight Hodge - Giving Feedback
Jul 26, 202351:37
Episode #149. Part Two on Feedback with Dwight Hodge - Seeking Feedback
Jul 19, 202340:19
Episode #148. Part One on Feedback with Dwight Hodge - The importance of connection
Jul 12, 202350:11
Episode #147. Shelley talks about saying no without damaging your brand
Jul 04, 202324:03
Episode #146. Interview with Adrian Baillargeon on teams that swear
Jun 28, 202341:11
Episode #145. Interview with Marnie Jones on recruitment & attracting talent
Jun 21, 202344:23
Episode #144. Interview with Vanessa Vershaw on ambition
Jun 13, 202348:04
Episode #143. Interview with Lana Johnson on strategy and change
Jun 07, 202345:50
Episode #142. Interview with Jacqui Clarke on your money story
May 30, 202345:49
Episode #141. Interview with Jade Green on authenticity and unlocking potential
May 24, 202349:49
Episode #140. Interview with Brenda Harrington on inclusion and diversity
May 17, 202346:10
Episode #139. Interview with Anne Duggan on self-disruption
May 10, 202350:02
Episode #138. Interview with Darren Fleming on mindset mastery
May 02, 202346:25
Episode #137. Interview with Kerry Howard on how to heal a workplace
Apr 25, 202355:10
Episode #136. Shelley speaks about boundaries and managing expectations
Apr 19, 202329:30
Episode #135. Interview with Melo Calarco on beating burnout
Apr 11, 202346:59