Leading You

As we step into 2025, I'm thrilled to welcome you to another season of Leading You, and what better way to kick it off than with a splash of creativity and intuition? 

Each new year holds the promise of fresh starts and new possibilities, and I love to think of it as a blank canvas. It's a chance for us to thoughtfully consider what we want to express and achieve in the coming months.

As we greet the new year, let's cast aside limitations and get excited about the freedom to paint our own blank canvas for 2025, imbued with the colours that resonate with our dreams and ambitions. For this episode, we’ll focus on the symbolism and power of colour in shaping our journey through the year.

For me, this year's colour is gold—a departure from my usual palette. Gold speaks to abundance, light, and boldness, encouraging me to cherish the good in my life while striving for new heights. It's a harmonious colour that pairs well with others, symbolising a continued openness to the richness of life's elements. 

What colour speaks to you for 2025? What does it signify about your hopes and goals? I'd love for you to share your thoughts with me, perhaps even joining our community conversation on social media with the hashtag #MyColour2025. Remember, your canvas is yours to paint. Whether your chosen colour remains by your side all year or evolves as you journey through, let it be a reflection of your growth and aspirations.

 

LINKS

Order My New Book “You Always Have A Choice” here 

 

Connect with Julie:

LinkedIn:    https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-hyde/

Instagram: @juliehydeleads

Website:     https://juliehyde.com.au

 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

As this year comes to an end, we have the opportunity to pause, reflect, and plan for 2025 with clarity and intention.

If you’re not sure where to start, consider asking your future self for guidance. Imagine you’re talking to the you at the end of 2025. What advice would they share? What choices would they tell you to make today to create the life that you truly want?

Before we fly forward, we want to look at the year that’s gone. Did you take strides in self-care? Perhaps a career decision that resonated with your values? Celebrate these wins! Too often we move past victories, missing the momentum they create.

Personally, releasing my book "You Always Have a Choice" was a monumental triumph amidst adversity. The empowerment that comes from seeing such projects to fruition is immense, and now it’s lighting the path for others. What win are you celebrating? Write it down and bask in it.

On the other hand, it’s important to reflect on the things that didn’t go to plan. This isn’t about judgment; it’s about learning from our mistakes so we can avoid them in the future.

Looking ahead once again, I invite you to visualise yourself in December 2025. What does your life look like? Are you healthy, content, and deeply connected with your true self? Most importantly, what steps did the future you take to build that beautiful future? This exercise isn’t about achievements in your career or finances, but rather how you live and how you feel.

Once we have an idea of where we’re going, it can be a good idea to unload some things that aren’t serving us. Perhaps it’s the fear of saying 'no,' or the pressure to remain perpetually busy. Give yourself permission to let go of what no longer serves you—jot it down and embrace the simplicity of one decisive step forward.

Next, boundary-setting is vital. It’s about defending your time and energy rather than shutting others out. Identify a boundary that aligns with your 2025 vision. A personal example is my commitment to unwinding before bedtime and being off my phone after a certain hour, which has been non-negotiable during my health journey.

Finally, it's about those daily choices that shape who you'll become. Be intentional with how you act, respond, and prioritise. Have a clear understanding of your goals and values to guide these decisions, and let your envisioned future self be the beacon.

You always have a choice in how you lead your life, so why not make 2025 the year you live boldly, and embrace your potential?  Thanks so much for tuning in. Leading You will be back in the new year but until then I’m wishing you and your loved ones a magical holiday season.

 

LINKS

Order My New Book “You Always Have A Choice” here 

 

Connect with Julie:

LinkedIn:    https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-hyde/

Instagram: @juliehydeleads

Website:     https://juliehyde.com.au

 

 

 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The only part of our future we can know for certain is that things will change.

It’s inevitable, and nowhere is that more apparent than in the fast-paced world of business and technology. As a leader, being able to guide people through this change is but it’s not about having all the answers—it's about how you bring people along with you on this journey.

Recently, I sat down with Steve Vamos, author, speaker, and veteran leader in the technology and digital media industries, to discuss what it truly means to lead effectively in times of change.

One of my favourite nuggets of wisdom Steve shared the power of mindset in determining our fate. He drew from his diverse experiences, comparing different leadership mindsets at Apple and how they influenced the company's trajectory. He explained that during times of change, clinging tightly to what you know can be a hindrance. In order to thrive, leaders need a mindset that embraces flexibility, learning, and growth. Mistakes, Steve argued, should be seen as steps towards mastery rather than failures to avoid.

A common mistake Steven has seen leaders making is not getting their team aligned with the strategy before executing change. To avoid this, he recommends being clear about your purpose and priorities, driving alignment across the board, and constantly reviewing progress. This ensures everyone is on the same page and resources are optimally utilised. Leaders must encourage feedback and carry out difficult conversations as a part of this process, ensuring the team is equipped to adapt as needed.

But remember, leading change isn't just about managing others - it’s also about managing yourself. A leader who doesn’t make time for their health, wellbeing, and self-awareness will struggle to stay effective.

Simple habits like getting enough exercise, maintaining mindfulness, and seeking honest feedback keep us better equipped to lead others through uncertain times without succumbing to burnout.

Preparing ourselves to face challenges proactively rather than reactively helps maintain a clearer, calmer mind ready to tackle whatever comes our way.

So, change isn’t going anywhere, and it’s not slowing down, but we don’t have to be afraid of it. By focusing on relationships, listening actively, and genuinely caring about your team's development, you’ll be able to confidently navigate any storm.

Until next time, stay resilient and remember it’s all about the people.

 

LINKS

Connect with Steve Vamos

Website:     https://www.stevevamos.com/

Book:    https://www.stevevamos.com/through-shifts-and-shocks

LinkedIn: https://au.linkedin.com/in/stevevamos

 

Order My New Book “You Always Have A Choice” here 

Connect with Julie:

LinkedIn:    https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-hyde/

Instagram: @juliehydeleads

Website:     https://juliehyde.com.au

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

One of the many difficulties for those with ADHD is the constant need to try and fit into a world that really isn't designed for a complex brain.

For neurodivergent leaders, or those leading neurodivergent team members, the traditional workplace can present challenges that not only negatively affect performance, but have the potential to create psychological harm. 

So how do we create inclusive, safe environments for ourselves and those we lead?

Julie Cockerill is an expert in the field of neurodiversity and workplace inclusivity, and has an ADHD diagnosis herself. I had the pleasure of sitting down to chat with her all about it. Julie is the founder of Lemon Co, a leadership coaching and consultancy firm dedicated to transforming how leaders thrive amidst today’s fast-paced demands. Julie blends her experience with a deep knowledge of brain science, positive psychology and emotional intelligence to empower leaders to lead boldly, break through burnout and create inclusive, brain friendly workplaces.

Julie shares her insights around understanding the unique way our brains function, which empowers us to better manage our work and energy. She takes us through her own journey to an ADHD diagnosis and how she has learnt to embrace her neurodivergence. 

Historically, ADHD was often overlooked or misdiagnosed, especially in women, leading to a myriad of misunderstood emotional experiences. Our discussion underscores the importance of an accurate understanding of ADHD, a neurodevelopmental condition characterised by varying symptoms, complexities and brain wiring differences.

Julie passionately describes what it means to create a neurodivergent-inclusive workplace. The brain's natural inclination is to seek safety and reward, hence organisations must foster an environment where team members feel secure and engaged. Psychological safety and inclusive leadership are key to unlocking creativity, learning and collaboration. 

When a team member discloses their neurodivergent diagnosis, it’s crucial for leaders to listen and respond with curiosity and compassion. We discuss building trust through understanding and vulnerability, which can greatly enhance a team's dynamics. 

In a world still learning to embrace neurodiversity, these conversations are vital. I’m grateful to Julie for sharing her insights and for the important work she does in paving the way for more inclusive workplaces. As leaders, may we continue to evolve, ensuring that everyone can bring their whole selves to work, shining brightly in their own unique ways.

 

LINKS

Connect with Julie Cockerill:

Website:     https://juliecockerill.au/ 

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

Instagram:    @juliecockerill.au

 

Order My New Book “You Always Have A Choice” here 

Connect with Julie:

LinkedIn:    https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-hyde/

Instagram: @juliehydeleads

Website:     https://juliehyde.com.au

 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

You know that feeling when you walk into a room and the tension is so palpable you could cut it with a knife? It's as if there's a massive elephant taking up all the space, silently daring anyone to acknowledge it.

 No one ever does, because we’re scared. But if we’re brave enough to face our fears, we can shrink the elephant and give our team more room to shine.

I recently had the pleasure of discussing this very topic with Genevieve Hawkins, an expert with deep skills in health, human behaviour, and commercial business, and the author of “Shrinking Elephants.” Our conversation left me with invaluable insights that I'm excited to share with you

According to Genevieve, the elephants arise when people see the same situation through different lenses, shaped by their experiences and perspectives. The first step to confronting them is to acknowledge that other people might see things differently than you. Not because they want to be difficult, but because their view of the problem—or the elephant—is different from ours. Having differing views isn’t a bad thing in itself.  It’s when we fail to acknowledge and discuss these differences that conflicts grow, blocking effective communication and productivity.

So why don’t people speak up more often? The biggest reason is fear - fear of confrontation, fear of career repercussions, or simply the belief that speaking out wouldn't change anything. It's an environment we've all experienced, where discomfort festers quietly and impacts not just culture and teamwork but individual mental health as well.

Fortunately, Genevieve shares her advice on overcoming that fear and shrinking these elephants - trust. When disagreements are addressed openly, trust is built—not on agreeing, but on the shared ability to have open discussions about differing views. To foster this environment, Genevieve suggests leaders intentionally create bonds with their teams. By finding common ground, recognising strengths, and being curious about team members’ perspectives, leaders can create a safe space where divergent opinions are valued.

Managing group discussions when an elephant emerges requires tact. Genevieve recommends establishing a common language for addressing and resolving these issues. By recognising the elephant and setting ground rules for respectful discussion, teams can embrace diverse perspectives, turning potential flashpoints into opportunities for creative problem-solving.

Finally, Genevieve reminded me that workplaces aren't meant to be free of conflict. On the contrary, the absence of disagreement often indicates tension and lurking quiet conflicts. Constructive conflict, when managed well, can be beneficial by providing a platform for new ideas and improvements.

So, look around your workplace for any elephants lingering in the corners, it’s time to illuminate them! In doing so, you’re opening pathways to trust, innovation, and ultimately, a stronger, more cohesive team.

 

LINKS

Connect with Genevieve Hawkins:

LinkedIn:    https://au.linkedin.com/in/genevievehawkins

Website:     https://genevievehawkins.com.au/

 

Order My New Book “You Always Have A Choice” here 

Connect with Julie:

LinkedIn:    https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-hyde/

Instagram: @juliehydeleads

Website:     https://juliehyde.com.au

 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

How often do we hear ourselves saying the word “try”?

I’ll try to get to the gym. I’ll try to stop being so busy. I’ll try to not look at my phone so much. 

While “try” sounds harmless, it often acts as an escape route. It can be our way of saying that we're going to make an effort, but leaves room for us to back out and make excuses if things get too hard.  

So how do we change our vocabulary in a way that supports us to turn our commitments into real accomplishments? 

Today, we're going to discover how the word “try” might be holding you back from achieving the life you truly desire, and the steps you can take to change your mindset.

We'll talk about the power language has to shape our reality, and how replacing "I'll try" with "I will" can make a huge impact in shifting your day-to-day reality. 

I challenge you to make this change for one week - you'll begin to notice how liberating and powerful this can be. You'll set realistic expectations and acquire a new level of commitment.

Think about the goals you want to achieve and stop giving yourself a way out. Whether it’s hitting your sales targets, spending more time with family or finally going to the gym, commit to it. When you switch from ”I'm trying” to “I'm doing”, you are setting yourself up for success. As we approach a new year, think about your 2025 goals and align them with a life you love, filled with committed actions.

Remember, it's these small shifts in language that can lead to big changes in life. I’d love to hear your one week challenge goes and the commitments you’re making towards making your dreams a reality!

 

LINKS

Order My New Book “You Always Have A Choice” here 

Connect with Julie:

LinkedIn:    https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-hyde/

Instagram: @juliehydeleads

Website:     https://juliehyde.com.au

 

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Negotiation—it’s a word that fills most of us with dread. 

It conjures up images of high-stakes boardroom confrontations or uncomfortable salary discussions. But what if I told you that negotiation is a skill we wield more frequently than we realise, and that mastering it could unlock immense value in our lives? 

I had the pleasure of diving into this very topic with the fascinating Glin Bayley, known as the Value Negotiator. Glin isn’t just any expert; she’s a negotiation specialist, non-exec board director, self-leadership coach, author and an inspiring speaker. 

Her approach is unique, focusing not just on the tactics of negotiation but on the transformative process of understanding who you become along the journey. 

Her new book, The Negotiation Playbook, is a treasure trove of insights into value-driven negotiations, and I was thrilled to have her share some of her wisdom with us.

We discuss negotiation as a daily dialogue and how to apply a value-based negotiation framework to both professional and personal interactions. Glin also take us through clear steps that can apply to any situation where we seek to create value. 

What I love about Glin’s teachings is how negotiation becomes a pathway to self-understanding, rather than just a transactional skill. By facing our fears of rejection or inadequacy, we grow into more confident communicators and leaders.

Glin’s insights left me with a renewed perspective on negotiation: it’s all about unlocking our own value, understanding others and developing a framework that can transform both professional and personal arenas. Whether you're a leader, collaborator, or even a friend, the ability to negotiate with confidence is invaluable.

I highly recommend Glin’s book for anyone looking to delve deeper into these concepts. You’ll find the tools and inspiration to negotiate not just effectively, but authentically.

 

 

LINKS

Connect with Glin:

Book:         The Negotiation Playbook

Website:     https://www.heartofhuman.com/

Instagram: @heartofhumanofficial

LinkedIn:    https://www.linkedin.com/company/heartofhuman/ 

 

Order My New Book “You Always Have A Choice” here 

Connect with Julie:

LinkedIn:    https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-hyde/

Instagram: @juliehydeleads

Website:     https://juliehyde.com.au

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A lot of women feel overwhelmed by the constant juggle… life, career, business, family, taking care of your health - all the things! With so many balls in the air, it can feel like you’re not doing a good job of anything.

If you feel this way, trust me, you're not alone. Many have reached out to me with the same question: How do I be my best when life keeps throwing so many things at me? 

Staying in your A-game doesn’t mean upholding a standard of perfection. It means being the best version of you that you can be, even when you're faced with challenges. 

And the best version of you isn't static; it changes all the time as you grow and evolve.

At the heart of it all is a proactive mindset. Embracing this mindset sets the foundation for making empowered choices that propel you forward, no matter what life throws your way.

The Juggling Act

In my book, You Always Have a Choice, I talk about categorising the different areas of your life into three balls: crystal, rubber, and concrete. Crystal balls represent your top priorities and values - if these shatter, it would be catastrophic. Rubber balls can bounce back if dropped temporarily and concrete balls are the ones you juggle out of obligation. By identifying and letting go of these concrete balls, you free yourself from unnecessary burden, which is so empowering.

The Power of the Pause

Pausing isn't just a luxury; it's a necessity for clarity and control. I encourage my clients to pause for 10 minutes at the end of each day to breathe, reflect and themselves questions like, "What's most important to maintain my A-game today?" This simple act not only takes you into your parasympathetic nervous system but also empowers you to reset your focus and align with what truly matters.

Mindset is Your Superpower

Our mindset shapes everything—our actions, beliefs, and ultimately, our performance. It's the lens through which we view life's challenges. Shifting from "I have to do everything" to "I choose what's most important for my A-game" transforms obligations into choices. This simple shift can be a game changer in helping you align your actions with your values and long-term goals.

 

I encourage you to integrate these concepts into your daily life. Whether it's prioritising tasks, allowing time for a thoughtful pause, or transforming your mindset, each step brings you closer to your A-game. Remember, it's not about perfecting it all but choosing wisely in the midst of the juggle.

LINKS

Order My New Book “You Always Have A Choice” here 

Connect with Julie:

LinkedIn:    https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-hyde/

Instagram: @juliehydeleads

Website:     https://juliehyde.com.au

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

I visited Siem Reap, Cambodia many years ago, and have a surface-level understanding of the challenges faced there. Aviv Palti not only visited Siem Reap, but together with his family founded an organisation to help break the poverty cycle in Cambodia through the power of education. 

 

Aviv Palti is the CEO of Lifestyle Brands and founder of the Cambodia Rural Students Trust (CRST). The journey started unexpectedly when Aviv's 14-year-old daughter, Steph, was rejected from a school volunteering trip to Cambodia. Upset and dejected, the Palti family decided to seize the opportunity as a family mission. Two months later, six of them found themselves in Cambodia, volunteering at a rural school outside Siem Reap.

 

What began as teaching English evolved into a comprehensive program. CRST supports students not only through tuition but also by providing living allowances, healthcare, and mentorship. This support allows them to stay focused on their education and future success. The ripple effect to their extended family is huge, breaking the cycle of poverty that so many Cambodian students are trapped in. 

 

Empowering Others: A Leadership Philosophy

The philosophy of building others up underscores CRST, rooted in the belief that empowerment is key to sustainable change. Aviv emphasised the importance of leaders knowing when to step aside and support others, especially when they stumble. It’s about building resilience and capability rather than merely stepping in to fix problems.

 

Leading by Doing: The CRST Model

CRST’s innovative model places its students at the helm. From early on, students are taught to lead and manage the NGO. They are given roles equivalent to government positions—NGO Manager, Deputy NGO Manager, Education Manager, etc. This hands-on leadership develops their skillsets and instills in them a deep sense of responsibility and ownership, making CRST a sustainable model that equips the leaders of tomorrow.

 

Building Trust and Sustainability

One of the key elements Aviv highlighted was the importance of trust. From the onset, CRST committed to seeing its students through high school and university. This commitment, coupled with transparency and accountability, has built strong relationships with students and their families. Every year, new student selection teams, composed of current students, engage in a meticulous selection process that involves meeting families and village chiefs, ensuring a deep-rooted trust within the community.

 

Make sure you check out Aviv’s book, "Empowered," which is designed as a leadership guide. Featuring stories of CRST alumni who worked to become the future social leaders of their country, Aviv’s message is that leadership is a set of responsibilities anyone can learn, practise and own.

LINKS

Connect with Aviv Palti:

Book: Empowered: A new generation of leaders

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aviv-palti-02596080/

Website: https://www.cambodiaruralstudentstrust.org/

 

Order My New Book “You Always Have A Choice” here 

Connect with Julie:

LinkedIn:    https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-hyde/

Instagram: @juliehydeleads

Website:     https://juliehyde.com.au

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Can you believe we're already at the 201st episode of Leading You? It feels like just yesterday that I hit the record button for the very first time, and I’m so grateful for the support I get from each of you.

This milestone has made me reflect on just how much we’ve uncovered about leadership—what it truly means to lead oneself and others effectively.

Today I want to share the seven truths that have stuck with me the most from these past 200 episodes. Whether you’re new to leadership or a seasoned pro, these insights will help elevate your leadership to new heights.

1. The Power of the Pause
   You've heard me talk about this endlessly, and for good reason. Pausing before reacting is a leadership superpower. It allows us to assess situations, make informed decisions, and communicate more clearly. This space for reflection helps avoid emotional responses, fostering a more thoughtful leadership style. One of our guests, Shivani Gupta, shared an excellent example when she stepped away from her business for six months to figure out her next move. This intentional pause allowed her to think about what truly fuels her purpose.
2. Self-Care Fuels Success
   Effective leadership starts with looking after yourself. Prioritising your physical, mental, and emotional well-being is crucial for preventing burnout and sustaining long-term success. Leaders who model self-care not only maintain their health but also encourage a healthier work culture within their teams. It's easy to put self-care on a backburner while we focus on busyness, but it’s important to remember that self-care is not a luxury; it’s a necessity for effective leadership.
3. Vulnerability Strengthens Resilience and Trust
   Vulnerability is no longer seen as a weakness but as a powerful leadership tool. Leaders who openly admit their mistakes and share personal challenges build deep trust with their teams. Through my own experiences and those shared by my guests, I've seen how being authentic and vulnerable fosters stronger connections and more collaborative environments.
4. Empowered Choices Drive Growth
   Leadership is about making conscious, empowered decisions. Whether it's navigating tough conversations or setting boundaries, intentional choices significantly shape how effectively a leader can grow and inspire their teams. It’s about being proactive rather than reactionary. Making empowered choices sets the tone for growth and purpose, not only for you but for your team as well.
5. Emotional Intelligence Builds Strong Leaders
   While high IQ can make you the smartest person in the room, it’s emotional intelligence (EQ) that makes you an effective and influential leader. High EQ involves self-regulation, recognising how your emotions impact others, and understanding what motivates you. Leaders with high emotional intelligence inspire loyalty and cohesion within their teams, resolving conflicts more effectively. I’ve seen this in guests like Catherine Duncan and Adam Rouse, who demonstrate strong EQ in their leadership practices.
6. Resilience Comes from Self-Mastery
   Resilience is a great tool for any leader, because it helps you to stay composed under pressure, adapt to challenges, and maintain focus on long-term goals. Unfortunately, as Peter Baines shared when I spoke to him, you can’t build resilience in your comfort zone. You need to face challenges head-on, learn from setbacks, and stay grounded in your purpose. It's about leading yourself through difficulties with the tools to overcome and grow from those experiences.
7. Adaptability is Essential
   Adaptability is one of the most important traits a leader can possess. Flexibility and openness to change allow leaders to respond proactively to new challenges. Carlo Pagano’s episode on relevance underscores this perfectly. Leaders who embrace change and guide their teams through uncertainty thrive in dynamic environments, ensuring that they remain relevant and effective in leading both others and themselves.

 

These seven truths, gathered from hundreds of conversations and personal experiences, have been instrumental in shaping my leadership style and I hope they can do the same for you. Thank you for being an essential part of this incredible journey. Your support has been invaluable, and I look forward to continuing this adventure with you.

Remember, leadership starts with you and the choices you make today will define the leader you become tomorrow. So, lead with intention, lead with heart, and keep growing.

LINKS

Order My New Book “You Always Have A Choice” here 

Connect with Julie:

LinkedIn:    https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-hyde/

Instagram: @juliehydeleads

Website:     https://juliehyde.com.au

 

 

Episodes Mentioned:

#153 - The Importance of Inclusion and Why It's Needed with Shivani Gopal: https://juliehyde.com.au/the-importance-of-inclusion-and-why-its-needed-with-shivani-gopal/

 #82 - An Unconventional Life and the Question to Stop Asking with Michelle Cox: https://juliehyde.com.au/an-unconventional-life-with-michelle-cox/

 #129 - The Key to Creating an Inclusive and Equitable Workplace with Adam Rowse & Catherine Duncan: https://juliehyde.com.au/the-key-to-creating-an-inclusive-and-equitable-workplace-with-adam-rowse-catherine-duncan/

 #154 - Building Resilience: Not letting today be defined by yesterday with Peter Baines: https://juliehyde.com.au/building-resilience-not-letting-today-be-defined-by-yesterday-with-peter-baines/

 #200 - Resilience and Real Talk: Patrina Jones on Thriving Through Life’s Challenges with Patrina Jones: https://juliehyde.com.au/resilience-and-real-talk-patrina-jones-on-thriving-through-lifes-challenges/

 #163 - How to Adapt to Change and Remain Relevant with Carlo Pagano: https://juliehyde.com.au/how-to-adapt-to-change-and-remain-relevant-with-carlo-pagano/

See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.