Human Wise

Welcome to Human Wise, the podcast that explores the commercial advantage of being human at work.

With host Helen Wada, executive coach and founder of The Human Advantage, each episode will explore what being human at work looks like across a wide range of industries, from people in senior management to those on the ground.

Unlock the secrets to thriving in today’s high-pressure workplaces by mastering the art of being authentically human at work. In this inspiring episode of the Human Wise Podcast, Helen welcomes Helen Dann, Samsung Electronics’ Head of Talent Development for Europe, whose powerhouse career in learning, development, and coaching spans more than two decades. Together, they unpack why self-awareness is the key ingredient for personal growth, effective leadership, and sustainable business success—especially in the fast-paced, target-driven environments we all navigate.

Helen Dann shares her transformative journey from “fixer” to empowering coach, diving into common workplace pressures, the perils of burnout, and how to foster trust, empathy, and true connection—both within teams and with clients. You’ll learn practical strategies to shift your mindset, lead with confidence, and have richer, more commercially savvy conversations, even in the toughest corporate climates.

Whether you’re a leader, team player, or on your own path to professional growth, this episode will give you actionable insights to show up with purpose and impact. Don’t miss out—discover how putting humanity at the heart of work can radically elevate your performance, relationships, and results!

Topics Discussed:

• Self awareness in professional development
• Coaching skills for business leaders
• Building authentic workplace relationships
• Impact of coaching on team performance
• Human approach in commercial conversations

View extended shownotes here

Further links to follow:

Read HUMAN-WISE: How to lead from within and sell with confidence

Helen Wada: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/helen-wada

The Human Advantage: https://www.thehumanadvantage.co.uk/

Welcome to Human Wise, the podcast that explores the commercial advantage of being human at work.

With host Helen Wada, executive coach and founder of The Human Advantage, each episode will explore what being human at work looks like across a wide range of industries, from people in senior management to those on the ground.

Do you ever wonder how to blend commercial success with authentic human connection at work—especially in today’s fast-evolving, tech-driven world? In this episode, we uncover the secrets to building a meaningful and commercially successful career with Alex Holt, Vice Chair and Global Strategy Leader for Comms, Media, and Technology at Accenture and author of Outpacer.

Helen Wada sits down with Alex to discuss why aligning your personal purpose with your organization and role is key to finding fulfillment—and high impact—at work. Alex shares his insights on bridging UK and US workplace cultures, the art of truly human-centered selling, and why awareness and accountability matter more than ever for growth and leadership. Plus, discover how to navigate risk, master client relationships, and thrive amidst the coming AI revolution.

Whether you’re a leader, an aspiring seller, or simply want to bring more humanity to your 9-to-5, this episode offers actionable strategies and thought-provoking questions to help you create an environment where you can do your best, most devoted work. Plug in for an energizing blend of commercial wisdom and human insight—you’ll leave thinking differently about purpose, sales, and workplace connection!

Topics Discussed:

• Blending humanity into business
• Aligning personal and organizational purpose
• Building trust in sales relationships
• Navigating workplace culture differences
• Human skills in the AI era

View Extended Shownotes here

Further links to follow:

Read HUMAN-WISE: How to lead from within and sell with confidence

Helen Wada: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/helen-wada

The Human Advantage: https://www.thehumanadvantage.co.uk/

Welcome to Human Wise, the podcast that explores the commercial advantage of being human at work.

With host Helen Wada, executive coach and founder of The Human Advantage, each episode will explore what being human at work looks like across a wide range of industries, from people in senior management to those on the ground.

Unlock the secrets to authentic career growth and transformative hiring in today’s fast-changing job market with this inspiring episode! Join Human Wise host Helen Wada in a candid, in-person conversation with Amy Wolfe, founder of The Wolfe Partnership and executive search expert, as they dive into what it really means to be "human at work." Discover why authenticity, trust, and self-knowledge matter more than ever for both job-seekers and employers—and how you can harness your unique strengths for lasting success.

You’ll learn why career ownership is essential (especially in uncertain times), how to craft your own compelling personal story, and the pitfalls of transactional recruitment. Amy shares actionable tips for candidates who feel stuck—whether you’re sending countless CVs into the void, feeling overlooked by age or circumstance, or striving to stand out beyond buzzwords and job titles. For businesses, she reveals how real connection, purpose, and transparent processes can transform your hiring—and why investing in people is key to thriving.

If you’re looking for practical career advice, want to hire exceptional talent, or simply crave a human-first approach to work, this episode will motivate you to embrace your individuality and build meaningful professional relationships. Don’t miss this must-listen guide to bringing humanity back to work!

Topics Discussed:

• Human side of recruitment
• Building trust through authenticity
• Navigating career transitions successfully
• Impact of technology on hiring
• Importance of professional networking

View the extended shownotes here

Further links to follow:

Read HUMAN-WISE: How to lead from within and sell with confidence

Helen Wada: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/helen-wada

The Human Advantage: https://www.thehumanadvantage.co.uk/

What does it really mean to be human at work—and how can finding your courage, overcoming adversity, and embracing your unique strengths transform your personal and professional life? 

In this insightful episode, marketing leader turned Atlantic rower and cancer survivor Felicity Ashley shares her extraordinary journey from boardrooms to battling storms at sea and facing cancer head-on. Discover how Felicity’s “midlife awakening” propelled her across the Atlantic with a crew of moms and how the lessons in resilience, mindset, and purpose she gained continue to shape her work as a motivational speaker.

We dive deep into the power of authentic leadership, why bringing your whole self matters, and how reframing your limiting beliefs can unlock new possibilities—both for you and your team. Felicity and host Helen reveal practical strategies to tap into your superpower, build genuine workplace connections, and cultivate a culture where performance and wellbeing go hand in hand.

Packed with inspiring stories and actionable tips, this conversation is for anyone looking to thrive in business, overcome setbacks, and find meaning in what you do. Tune in for a masterclass on resilience, self-leadership, and making the workplace truly human wise.

Topics Discussed:

• Building resilience in challenging times
• Human-centered leadership in business
• Overcoming limiting beliefs at work
• Role of mindset in achieving goals
• Importance of support networks

Read extended shownotes here:

Further links to follow:

Read HUMAN-WISE: How to lead from within and sell with confidence

Helen Wada: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/helen-wada

The Human Advantage: https://www.thehumanadvantage.co.uk/

Welcome to Human Wise, the podcast that explores the commercial advantage of being human at work.

With host Helen Wada, executive coach and founder of The Human Advantage, each episode will explore what being human at work looks like across a wide range of industries, from people in senior management to those on the ground.

Transform your ability to communicate effectively with Dominic Colenso, a former actor turned communication expert, in this riveting episode of the Human Wise Podcast. Dominic joins host Helen to discuss how his background in the arts has equipped him to help leaders and teams elevate their presentation and pitching skills in the business world.

Discover the secrets of controlling your energy, the power of presence, and how to truly connect with your audience by stripping back your message to its core essence. Dominic delves into the fundamentals of storytelling, emphasizing authenticity and vulnerability to foster genuine human connections.

Whether you're an executive looking to refine your pitch, a coach aiming to improve client interactions, or someone seeking to enhance their daily communications, this episode equips you with the tools to communicate with poise and impact. Don't miss out on practical insights and transformative tips to help you stand out in any setting!

Topics Discussed:

• Effective communication in pitch situations
• Importance of presence and mindfulness
• Storytelling for business success
• Building genuine human connections
• Managing energy and presentation skills

Read extended shownotes here

Further links to follow:

Read HUMAN-WISE: How to lead from within and sell with confidence

Helen Wada: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/helen-wada

The Human Advantage: https://www.thehumanadvantage.co.uk/

Unlock the secrets to thriving in an unpredictable world by embracing creativity and innovation in your professional life. In this eye-opening episode of the Human Wise Podcast, host Helen Wada is joined by the inspiring Margaret Heffernan, a seasoned entrepreneur, CEO, and prolific writer. Margaret shares insights from her upcoming book, "Embracing Uncertainty," and delves into how artists, musicians, and writers navigate the ever-changing landscape of modern work.

Explore how Margaret's curiosity-driven mindset has fueled her success across diverse fields, from running companies to mentoring leaders. Discover why traditional management techniques often stifle creativity and why cultivating a culture of experimentation and adaptability is crucial in today's workplace. With vivid examples, Margaret highlights the importance of creating space for creative thought, allowing employees to solve complex problems and innovate fearlessly.

Whether you're a seasoned executive or an emerging leader, this episode offers valuable lessons on leveraging human potential for dynamic growth and success. Don't miss this chance to transform your approach to leadership and make a lasting impact in your organization.

Topics Discussed in this Episode:

• Embracing uncertainty in business
• Creativity in corporate environments
• Curiosity-driven leadership strategies
• Enhancing human potential at work
• Impact of complex systems on management

View extended shownotes here

Further links to follow:

Read HUMAN-WISE: How to lead from within and sell with confidence

Helen Wada: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/helen-wada

The Human Advantage: https://www.thehumanadvantage.co.uk/

Welcome to Human Wise, the podcast that explores the commercial advantage of being human at work.

With host Helen Wada, executive coach and founder of The Human Advantage, each episode will explore what being human at work looks like across a wide range of industries, from people in senior management to those on the ground.

Unlock the secrets to thriving in today's complex work environments with insights into human-centered leadership. In this enlightening episode, we join Sophie Turner, a partner development coach and PhD candidate, as she delves into the evolving dynamics of professional partnerships and the imperative of authentic leadership. Discover why Sophie believes that genuine human connection and understanding one's true self are pivotal in navigating the challenges of modern workplaces.

We tackle the impact of commercial pressures on leadership, the essential fuel for replenishment, and the often-overlooked necessity of stepping out of comfort zones. Sophie shares transformative insights from her research on high-achieving professionals and the psychology behind preventing burnout in uncertain times. Additionally, explore actionable steps that both individuals and leaders can adopt to foster human-centric workplaces that lead to tangible commercial success.

Whether you're an aspiring leader, HR professional, or anyone keen on enhancing workplace dynamics, this episode offers a thoughtful exploration of how authenticity at work can drive both personal and organizational growth. Don’t miss this chance to redefine success through a human-centric lens—your professional trajectory could depend on it!

Topics Discussed:

• Human-centered leadership skills
• Challenges in professional partnerships
• Importance of human connection
• Authenticity in workplace culture
• Overcoming fear of rejection

Click here to view the extended shownotes

Further links to follow:

Read HUMAN-WISE: How to lead from within and sell with confidence

Helen Wada: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/helen-wada

The Human Advantage: https://www.thehumanadvantage.co.uk/

Welcome to Human Wise, the podcast that explores the commercial advantage of being human at work.

With host Helen Wada, executive coach and founder of The Human Advantage, each episode will explore what being human at work looks like across a wide range of industries, from people in senior management to those on the ground.

Discover the art of being human at work and the challenges of leadership in this exciting episode of Human Wise Podcast. Join Bill Berman, founder of Berman Leadership, as he delves into the essence of authentic leadership and navigating the complex tapestry of career paths in 2025. Bill shares invaluable insights from his journey as a psychologist turned executive coach, revealing how breadth of experience empowers leaders to drive meaningful change in today's dynamic workplace environment.

Explore themes of authenticity, timing, and tact at work, and the balancing act between prioritizing individual needs versus organizational demands. Helen Wada and Bill Berman engage in a rich discussion about creating a human-centered workplace while maintaining commercial edge—transforming challenges into opportunities. Whether you're an executive, aspiring leader, or curious professional, this episode equips you with actionable strategies to foster sustainable success and cultivate a more human working world. Don't miss out on transforming your professional approach with these thought-provoking insights.

Topics Discussed:

• Executive coaching for business leaders
• Balancing individual and organization needs
• Psychological safety in workplace relationships
• Importance of self-awareness in leadership
• Building trust through deeper conversations

View Extended Shownotes here

Further links to follow:

Read HUMAN-WISE: How to lead from within and sell with confidence

Helen Wada: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/helen-wada

The Human Advantage: https://www.thehumanadvantage.co.uk/

Welcome to Human Wise, the podcast that explores the commercial advantage of being human at work.

With host Helen Wada, executive coach and founder of The Human Advantage, each episode will explore what being human at work looks like across a wide range of industries, from people in senior management to those on the ground.

Unlock the secrets of successful sales with a human touch! In this transformative episode of the Human Wise Podcast, Alex Smith, a super sales leader and Senior Account Executive at Docebo, dives deep into integrating humanity within the commercial world. Discover how empathy, trust, and authentic connections can redefine your sales strategy and why everyone is inherently part of the sales process—across all professions. Alex shares his Midwest upbringing influences, the importance of being more than just your sales numbers, and how to balance commercial pressures with genuine human interactions.

We explore his compelling journey from journalism to sales, and how a mindset shift can transform your sales approach. Learn about the art of facilitating relationships, asking the right questions, and why your role is more than hitting quotas but about making a meaningful contribution. Whether you're a seasoned salesperson or someone discovering your hidden sales skills, this episode offers invaluable insights into creating authentic business relationships that last. Don’t miss out on this captivating conversation that proves the heart of successful sales lies in being human.

Topics Discussed:

• Building trust in sales
• Managing resilience in sales
• Balancing commercial pressures and human connection
• Importance of empathy in sales
• Effective sales strategies

View Extended Shownotes here

About Alex Smith

• Follow Alex on Linkedin
• Listen to the Sell by Being Human Podcast

Alex Smith is a Senior Account Executive at Docebo and the host of the "Sell By Being Human" podcast, focusing on human skills and understanding in sales, emphasizing empathy and connection to drive success. 

Further links to follow:

Read HUMAN-WISE: How to lead from within and sell with confidence

Helen Wada: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/helen-wada

The Human Advantage: https://www.thehumanadvantage.co.uk/

Welcome to Human Wise, the podcast that explores the commercial advantage of being human at work.

With host Helen Wada, executive coach and founder of The Human Advantage, each episode will explore what being human at work looks like across a wide range of industries, from people in senior management to those on the ground.

In this episode of the Human Wise podcast, Helen engages in an enlightening conversation with Heather Orton, a dynamic leader from South Africa renowned for her strategic insights and passion for human-centric design. This episode invites listeners into a world where curiosity and creativity lead the way, encouraging organizations to rethink business strategies for long-term value and sustainability.

Heather, currently steering the strategy and innovation for Parthen across Africa, unpacks her career journey which spans top global companies like KPMG and Accenture, as well as unique experiences with the royal household. Her diverse experiences have shaped her philosophy on the importance of being human at work, championing an environment that celebrates individuality and authenticity in the workplace. Heather shares her approach to leadership, emphasizing the power of empowering teams and fostering an inclusive work culture that embraces neurodiversity and personal challenges.

In a decidedly interconnected world, this episode explores the delicate balance between human-centric leadership and commercial adeptness. Helen and Heather discuss the necessity of commercial skills in today’s business landscape, highlighting how relationship-building and effective communication are integral to professional success. Heather reveals her insights into developing commercial acumen, drawing from her extensive experience in various commercial sectors and not-for-profit initiatives.

Perfect for professionals looking to enhance their leadership skills or those curious about the intersection of empathy and business success, this episode provides practical advice and thoughtful reflections on being more human at work

Topics Discussed:

• Human-centered workplace strategies
• Consultant skills for business development
• Impact of curiosity in leadership
• Navigating commercial skills in careers
• Relationship-building in business settings

View Extended Shownotes here

Further links to follow:

Read HUMAN-WISE: How to lead from within and sell with confidence

Helen Wada: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/helen-wada

The Human Advantage: https://www.thehumanadvantage.co.uk/