Dig Deeper

What if the most powerful thing you could do as a leader isn't delivering results or driving change—but simply seeing and hearing the people around you?

Today I'm joined by Jenny Brown. Jenny grew up in apartheid South Africa, classified as a ‘coloured’ person, where she learned what it means to navigate between worlds—not quite belonging fully anywhere, but developing an extraordinary ability to see and be in the spaces between.

She’s got this superpower to read what's really happening in a room - not just what's being said, but what's being felt, what's being avoided, and what needs to be addressed.

She’s also learned to call out what needs to be called out, doing so with a skillfulness that keeps people whole. She understands that leadership isn't about having all the answers - it's about creating space for others to be truly seen and heard.

If you've ever wondered how to create genuine belonging in your organisation, or how your own formative experiences might become your leadership superpower, this conversation will change how you think about what leadership really means.

Timestamps:

(00:00) - The Power of Observation in Leadership

(18:01) - The Journey from Independence to Interdependence

(24:05) - Navigating Difficult Conversations

(27:00) - Calling Out BS with Compassion

(34:18) - Creating Conditions for Belonging

(40:47) - The Broader Impact of Belonging

Other references:

1. The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt
2. Together by Dr Vivek Murthi
3. Belonging by Owen Eastwood
4. Fierce Conversations by Susan Scott
5. A Leader’s Guide to Reflective Practice by Judy Brown
6. Work Human 2023 Study
7. Gallup Employee Engagement Survey
8. What’s Your Bit? by Digby Scott

You can find Jenny at:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jenny-b-aa8ba958/

Check out my services and offerings https://www.digbyscott.com/

Subscribe to my newsletter https://www.digbyscott.com/subscribe

Follow me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/digbyscott/

What if the life you're living by default could become the life you're crafting by design?

And what if the difference between drifting and deliberately creating your future comes down to one intentional weekend with the person who matters most?

In this solocast, I share what happened when my partner Gillian and I carved out a weekend to create our 'Life by Design' plan. It wasn't about rigid blueprints or perfect forecasts. It was about getting intentional with what we want to create together, and how we might navigate the messiness of making it happen.

You'll discover:

1. Why life by design is the antidote to life by default, and how to shift from one to the other
2. The simple process we used to map out our future without losing space for spontaneity
3. How clustering your ideas into themes makes overwhelming possibilities feel manageable
4. Why reflecting on what's worked (and what hasn't) is crucial before planning what's next
5. How having a shared plan makes everyday decisions easier and less energy-draining
6. Why financial planning isn't just about spreadsheets, but about creating freedom for what matters
7. The tools and templates you can use to start your own life by design journey

Whether you're wrestling with feeling like life is happening to you rather than being shaped by you, curious about how to align your daily choices with your bigger vision, or simply wanting to create something meaningful with your partner, this conversation offers a practical glimpse into what's possible when you get deliberate about designing the life you actually want to live.

If you'd like the tookit and to learn how we use it, go to https://digbyscott.com/lifebydesign

Check out my services and offerings https://www.digbyscott.com/

Subscribe to my newsletter https://www.digbyscott.com/subscribe

Follow me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/digbyscott/

What if words aren't enough to truly connect with others?

And what if there's an entire dimension of communication we're missing, one that could transform how we lead, how we listen, and how we create trust in our teams?

Today I'm joined by Jordan Harcourt-Hughes, an abstract painter, writer, and communications specialist who's spent fifteen years leading creative teams across the Asia-Pacific. Jordan's journey began with what she calls her "early midlife crisis" at nineteen. A pivotal moment when she realised that traditional language wasn't the complete picture for human connection.

We explore the fascinating concept of vibrational language.How our bodies communicate beyond words, why singing in Monday morning meetings might be more revolutionary than you think, and what happens when we learn to listen not just with our ears, but with our entire being.

Whether you're leading strategy sessions that feel stuck, or simply curious about creating deeper connection in your work, this conversation will change how you think about the spaces between what we say and what we truly communicate.

Timestamps:

(00:00) - Introduction

(01:27) - The Concept of Vibrational Language

(21:06) - Listening Beyond Words

(25:37) - Creating a Trusting Environment

(28:27) - The Importance of Recalibration and Connection

(30:19) - The Challenge of Letting Go

(38:51) - Finding Energy and Inspiration for Change

Other references

1. Down and Out in Paris and London | George Orwell
2. Let Your Life Speak | Parker J. Palmer
3. The Let Go: https://www.digbyscott.com/thoughts/the-let-go
4. Deal in Energy: https://www.digbyscott.com/thoughts/deal-in-energy

You can find Jordan at:

Website:https://jordanharcourthughes.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jordanharcourthughes/

Check out my services and offerings https://www.digbyscott.com/

Subscribe to my newsletter https://www.digbyscott.com/subscribe

Follow me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/digbyscott/

Feeling burnt out and overwhelmed by constant change? You're not alone, and more importantly, you're not broken. In this thought-provoking episode, Digby explores the paradox at the heart of modern leadership challenges: how the problems we face are both completely beyond our control and entirely within it.

Drawing on Viktor Frankl's timeless wisdom about choosing our attitude in any circumstance, Digby unpacks why structural forces often feel insurmountable and how brilliant leaders get trapped thinking they just need to push harder. Through the powerful metaphor of swimming against a fast-flowing river, he reveals the hidden choices available to us even in the most challenging situations.

You'll discover the difference between external structural forces (like organisational culture and economic pressures) and the internal ones we carry within us (our assumptions, beliefs, and the stories we tell ourselves). Most crucially, you'll learn how shifting from being subject to change to becoming an agent of change can transform both your leadership and your wellbeing.

Whether you're a CEO feeling the weight of responsibility or anyone navigating complexity and burnout, this episode offers a fresh perspective on finding your way to the riverbank when the current feels too strong.

Check out my services and offerings https://www.digbyscott.com/

Subscribe to my newsletter https://www.digbyscott.com/subscribe

Follow me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/digbyscott/

What if the very thing that makes you uncomfortable about being seen is exactly what's holding you back as a leader?

Today I'm walking by the ocean and sitting in a Wellington playground with Cam Fink, a videographer who's spent years on the other side of the lens, observing what happens when leaders step into visibility.

We explore why being comfortable on camera isn't really about cameras at all – it's about your willingness to be authentically seen. Cam shares what he's learned about energy, presence, and human connection from filming thousands of people, and why the skills that make you compelling on video are the same ones that make you an engaging leader.

Whether you're leading a team meeting or recording your first LinkedIn video, this conversation will change how you think about showing up authentically in any situation where you need to influence and inspire others.

Cam Fink is a videographer, director, and the creator of the brilliantly named course "Be Less Shit on Camera." He's also my go-to person for helping me feel comfortable and confident whenever there's a camera pointed in my direction.

Timestamps:

(00:00) - The Need for Human Connection

(06:02) - The Role of Energy in Leadership

(17:47) - Visibility and Connection in Leadership

(24:51) - Shifting from Bystander to Activator

(32:11) - Embracing Authenticity and Vulnerability

(36:12) - Navigating Negative Feedback and Self-Perception

Other references:

1. Santo, Sam and Ed's Cup Fever
2. Santo Cilauro
3. The Castle
4. Thought Leaders Business School
5. Peter Cook
6. Matt Church
7. Col Fink
8. Tony Wilson
9. Simon Dowling

You can find Cam Fink at:

Website: https://www.camfink.com/

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/camfink/

Course: https://www.camfink.com/

Check out my services and offerings https://www.digbyscott.com/

Subscribe to my newsletter https://www.digbyscott.com/subscribe

Follow me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/digbyscott/

What if the constant firefighting and crisis management that fills our days is actually stealing our chance to create something truly meaningful?

And what if the most important work we can do isn't about solving the next problem, but about building something that lasts well beyond our time here?

This episode explores how we can shift from reactive mode to creating lasting impact. Drawing from fresh insights gathered during 10 weeks of travel across five countries, Digby shares three powerful examples of enduring legacy: 3,500-year-old Bronze Age buildings in Sardinia that still stand strong, Royal Designers whose creations continue to enrich our lives decades later, and a volunteer marine rescue service that's been saving lives for over four decades.

You'll discover why our modern culture of constant change and precious time traps us in reactive patterns, how to lift your head above the daily fires to focus on what truly matters over the long term, and practical ways to start building your own lasting impact today. Whether you're leading a team, running an organisation, or simply seeking to create something meaningful, this conversation will challenge you to think differently about the legacy you're creating.

This episode marks the beginning of a deeper exploration into what it takes to lead lasting impact and offers a glimpse into new services designed to help senior leaders focus on creating enduring change.

You’ll explore:

1. Travel as a catalyst for fresh perspectives
2. Three examples of lasting impact: buildings, design, and service
3. Why reactive mode steals our chance for lasting impact
4. Questions to consider for your own lasting legacy

Check out my services and offerings https://www.digbyscott.com/

Subscribe to my newsletter https://www.digbyscott.com/subscribe

Follow me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/digbyscott/

What if the conversations we're avoiding at work are exactly the ones that could transform everything?

And what if there's a crucial difference between being nice to people and being truly kind to them – one that could revolutionise how you lead?

Today I'm joined by Georgia Murch, founder of Can We Talk and someone who's spent over 25 years mastering what she calls "the dance" of building better cultures.

Georgia's take is that most of us have lost the art of disagreeing well, and she's got some fascinating insights about why we're so conflict-avoidant – and what's possible when we learn to push through that discomfort.

We explore why people hear your content but smell your intent, how to move from being a "magpie" or a "mouse" in conflict to becoming more like a "meerkat," and the surprising business impact of developing a solid meditation practice.

Whether you're tiptoeing around difficult conversations or wondering how to create psychological safety while still holding people accountable, this conversation will change how you think about the courage required to truly serve others.

Timestamps:

(00:00) - The Difference Between Nice and Kind

(17:51) - The Art of Disagreeing Well

(27:09) - Embracing the Meerkat Within Us

(31:38) - Meditation as a Tool for Clarity

(34:50) - Leading with Freedom and Authenticity

(43:03) - The Opportunity Beyond Conflict Avoidance

Other references:

1. Brené Brown - “Dare to Lead”
2. Thought Leaders Business School
3. The Rest is Politics Podcast
4. Jennifer Garvey-Berger Episode
5. Adam Cooper Episode

You can find Georgia at:

Website: https://canwetalk.co

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgiamurch/

Check out my services and offerings https://www.digbyscott.com/

Subscribe to my newsletter https://www.digbyscott.com/subscribe

Follow me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/digbyscott/

What if the clarity you're seeking isn't about having all the answers, but about cultivating deep conviction in what matters most to you?

And what if the wobbly feeling you have when charting your own course isn't a sign you're on the wrong path, but evidence you're choosing authenticity over easy?

In this solo episode, I reflect on a conversation that sparked some deep thinking about conviction and direction. Someone who knew me 25 years ago remembered my clarity of purpose during a time when I was actually feeling quite wobbly and uncertain. It got me wondering about the difference between confidence and conviction, and why one matters more than the other for sustained leadership impact.

You'll explore:

1. How major burnout at 32 led to life-changing clarity about what truly mattered
2. Why conviction can grow even when confidence feels shaky
3. The questions that form the foundation of authentic commitment to yourself
4. How blind alleys and course corrections actually strengthen your sense of direction
5. Why comparing yourself to others' corporate trajectories misses the point entirely
6. The relationship between authentic living and sustained impact
7. How to honour your values even when the path feels uncertain

Whether you're questioning your current direction, feeling the strain of relentless effort, or simply curious about what it means to stay true to yourself over decades, this conversation offers a framework for cultivating the kind of conviction that becomes fuel for meaningful change.

Sometimes the path that feels most uncertain in the moment becomes the only path that could have been truly yours. This episode explores why that paradox might be exactly what your leadership journey needs.

Check out my services and offerings https://www.digbyscott.com/

Subscribe to my newsletter https://www.digbyscott.com/subscribe

Follow me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/digbyscott/

Do you know that feeling when you're asked a question, you’re under pressure, so you reach for the nearest answer?

Or when you're in a meeting and someone says "let's not overcomplicate this" or "we just need to make a decision" and something inside you knows you're moving too fast, but the momentum carries you forward anyway?

This episode explores what Kate Christiansen calls "the Answer Trap," that invisible current pulling us toward quick closure when what we actually need is better thinking.

Kate shares how our brains, when faced with disruption and complexity, default to comfort-seeking patterns that feel like progress but actually limit our capacity to navigate what's really happening.

What if the biggest risk we face isn't making the wrong decision, but stopping our thinking too soon?

Kate Christiansen is a ‘cognitive detective’ who's spent decades helping leaders think more clearly when it matters most. Having lived through disruptive environments her entire career, she's developed an uncanny ability to see patterns in complexity that others miss.

Kate is the author of "The Answer Trap," a book that names something we've all experienced but never had language for.

In this episode, you'll discover:

1. How to recognise the five "autopilot" thinking patterns that drag us toward premature answers
2. Why disruption makes us crave closure and how this creates a cycle of reactive decision-making
3. How to switch from autopilot to "copilot" by partnering with your brain rather than being controlled by it
4. Why asking "What am I thinking right now?" is the simplest way to break free from default patterns
5. How AI both amplifies the answer trap and offers new ways to enhance our thinking
6. Why the "dodo effect" threatens our cognitive abilities and what we can do about it
7. How to create "surface piercing questions" that move beyond comfortable answers
8. Why slowing down in conversations actually accelerates better outcomes

Timestamps:

(00:00) - The Dodo Effect and Outsourcing Thinking

(10:57) - The Answer Trap: Understanding the Problem

(20:17) - The Relationship with AI: A Double-Edged Sword

(27:39) - Understanding Autopilots in Decision Making

(32:20) - Breaking Free from Autopilot Thinking

(46:09) - The Power of Naming the Answer Trap

Other references:

1. Curly Conversations for Teams Book| Kate Christiansen
2. The Answer Trap | Kate Christiansen
3. The Thrive Cycle | Kate Christiansen
4. Growth Mindset | Carol Dweck
5. Chat GPT

You can find Kate at:

Website: www.katechristiansen.com.au

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katechristiansen/

Check out my services and offerings https://www.digbyscott.com/

Subscribe to my newsletter https://www.digbyscott.com/subscribe

Follow me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/digbyscott/

Ever found yourself in a conversation where someone's perspective seems completely wrong to you? Where your first instinct is to correct them, challenge them, or prove your point? What if that instinct is actually blocking you from real connection and genuine influence?

This solocast explores a powerful encounter on a flight that challenged everything about how we engage with differing viewpoints. You'll discover why everyone's perspectives make perfect sense to them, even when they seem completely at odds with your own beliefs. Understanding this changes everything about your ability to connect and lead.

Through a candid story about a conversation on US politics and South Africa, I'll show you how curiosity beats critique every time, and why meeting people where they're at without judgment opens doors that argument slams shut. This isn't about agreeing with everyone – it's about expanding your own perspective and building the kind of understanding that creates real influence.

You'll learn:

1. Why your first instinct to correct someone's "wrong" viewpoint limits your leadership
2. How to listen for understanding rather than listening to respond
3. The difference between proving your point and improving your viewpoint
4. Why meeting people where they're at is essential for genuine connection
5. How expanding your perspective gives you greater awareness of the complex world we're leading in
6. Practical ways to ask questions that deepen understanding rather than create defensiveness
7. Why curiosity and judgment can't coexist – and which one actually creates influence

Whether you're navigating difficult conversations at work, trying to understand different perspectives in your community, or simply wanting to become a more effective communicator, this episode will shift how you approach every interaction where viewpoints differ.

Check out my services and offerings https://www.digbyscott.com/

Subscribe to my newsletter https://www.digbyscott.com/subscribe

Follow me on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/digbyscott/