Product Powers - Human Skills for Product Thinkers to Thrive in the Age of AI

Curious about how a murder mystery can enhance team dynamics and business skills?

Imtiaz and Lewis, creators of the Murder Mystery Experience Workshop, share how they turned a fun idea into a transformative commercial success using gamification.

They explore the nuances of engaging storytelling, real-life scenario simulations, and the power of personalised learning to address modern workplace challenges.

00:00 Introduction

02:23 Favorite Childhood Games

03:18 Imposter Syndrome as a Superpower

04:49 The Murder Mystery Experience

06:49 The Popularity of Murder Mysteries

10:53 Creating Realistic Storylines

16:56 Challenges and Evolution of the Workshop

19:40 The Power of Live Performance

20:21 Exploring Gamification

21:35 The Science Behind Gamification

24:31 Hybrid Work Challenges

27:31 Reconnecting Teams

30:00 Workshop Dynamics

32:06 Creating Immersive Experiences

37:33 Future Plans and Innovations

41:28 Conclusion and Contact Information

⚡️ In each episode, Paddy Dhanda deep dives into a new human Superpower to help you thrive in the age of AI.

Host: Paddy Dhanda

Paddy works at the largest Tech training organisation in the UK and is passionate about helping tech professionals build human skills to thrive in the age of AI.

Contact Paddy: [email protected]

Subscribe to my newsletter:

👉 Newsletter: https://www.superpowers.school/subscribe

Want to Bring the Experience to Your Team?

If you’re intrigued by what you’ve heard in this episode, looking to break down team silos, reconnect or re-energise your team, or just have a damn good time. visit the Kilts and Kente website and complete the contact form, or reach out directly to Lewis and Imtiaz on LinkedIn.As a special bonus, use the discount code Anna Litics when booking to unlock an exclusive offer!

https://www.kiltsandkente.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/lewis-james-carroll/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/imtiazkaderbhoy2/

Explore unconventional approaches to facilitation and creativity with guest Rach Davis. We discuss the importance of finding inspiration outside traditional fields, the concept of cross pollination, and how it enhances workshop design.

The conversation delves into specific facilitation techniques, the impact of tools like Butter, and the strategic use of AI in workshops.

Rach shares entertaining anecdotes from San Antonio and valuable facilitation tips, such as using Lego Serious Play and the 'full body yes.'

The episode is filled with practical insights for anyone looking to elevate their facilitation skills.

00:00 Introduction

01:14 Meet Rach Davis

01:35 The Creative Weirdo

02:19 Superpower of Cross-Pollination

03:44 San Antonio Stories

08:24 Journey into Facilitation

14:49 Creative Workshop Activities

20:47 Creating a Safe Space for Ideas

21:22 The Power of a Smile in Workshops

23:15 Full Body Yes: Understanding Physical Reactions

24:38 Exploring Tools for Facilitation

27:39 Using AI in Workshops

31:57 Innovative Workshop Techniques

32:47 Abolishing the 'Always Done This Way' Mentality

34:21 Concise Communication with Balance

36:16 Recommended Books and Resources

37:34 Connecting and Upcoming Sessions

39:15 Conclusion and Farewell

⚡️ In each episode, Paddy Dhanda deep dives into a new human Superpower to help you thrive in the age of AI.

Host: Paddy Dhanda

Paddy works at the largest Tech training organisation in the UK and is passionate about helping tech professionals build human skills to thrive in the age of AI.

Contact Paddy: [email protected]

Subscribe to my newsletter:

👉 Newsletter: https://www.superpowers.school/subscribe

Guest: Rach Davis

Meet Rachel, a Workshop Experience Designer and Facilitator who runs her own business as an independent consultant. With almost 20 years of strategy and workshopping experience, she's a firm believer that play is the doorway to our wildest ideas. Coming from an environment where being creative was like pulling teeth, she now helps others move past blockers to creative problem solving by crafting workshop experiences infused with joy and energy.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachdavis/

https://www.rachdavis.com/

https://bento.me/rachdavis

We explore the unique intersection of doodling, creativity, and facilitation with artist and coach Karen Light.

Karen shares her experiences on how doodling activates multiple learning centers in the brain and can foster deeper connections in both educational and corporate settings.

We discuss the transformative power of play and creativity, Karen's personal journey with doodling, and practical ways to incorporate doodling into facilitation and coaching sessions.

00:00 Introduction

01:58 Karen Light's Artistic Journey

02:57 The Power of Doodling

05:53 Personal Story: Discovering Doodling

08:40 Incorporating Doodling into Work

10:12 Interactive Doodling Exercise

21:23 Facilitation Techniques and Personal Insights

22:20 Group Doodling Activities

24:03 Doodling for Engagement and Creativity

26:35 Neurodiversity and Executive Function

28:43 Practical Doodling Tips

31:16 The Importance of Creativity in Education

36:41 Transformative Power of Art

39:56 Creating Inspiring Work Environments

43:52 Connecting and Wrapping Up

⚡️ In each episode, Paddy Dhanda deep dives into a new human Superpower to help you thrive in the age of AI.

Host: Paddy Dhanda

Paddy works at the largest Tech training organisation in the UK and is passionate about helping tech professionals build human skills to thrive in the age of AI.

Contact Paddy: [email protected]

Subscribe to my newsletter:

👉 Newsletter: https://www.superpowers.school/subscribe

Guest: Karen Light

Karen Light is a multi-passionate Creative, Artist, and Neurodiversity Advocate dedicated to helping others activate their creativity and embrace their unique minds. As the founder of Studio Light Illustration, she illustrates books for self-publishing authors and creates meaningful, mixed-media art. She also runs HowDoodle, a Creative Productivity Coaching company supporting neurodiverse individuals in harnessing their strengths. With a background in art, education, and executive function coaching, Karen empowers both creatives and non-creatives to unlock their potential. She holds a BFA (Xavier University), an MA in Cultural Management (City University London), and coaching certifications from Transformation Academy and the Academy of Modern Applied Psychology.

https://www.howdoodle.com/

In this episode, I sit down with Dr Tammy Watchorn, a prolific author and former NHS project manager, to discuss her latest book, The Change Ninja Returns. Tammy shares her journey from leading change in the health service to applying change management principles in her personal life.

She highlights the importance of understanding the neuroscience behind change and offers practical tools for effective change management. We explore her unique approach of using humour and gamification in her books to make the concepts more engaging.

Tammy also talks about the impact of AI on the workplace and the importance of focusing on human skills development as technology evolves.

00:00 Introduction

01:01 Meet the Author: Tammy's Journey

01:45 The Concept of Change Ninja

02:43 Challenges in the Health Services

04:35 Writing the First Book: The Change Ninja Handbook

08:40 Gamification and Personal Change

09:27 Workplace Innovation Stories

16:31 Personal Life and Change Management

21:46 Neuroscience Behind Change

24:11 Understanding the Brain's Response to Change

26:26 The Role of Data in Decision Making

28:46 Facilitation Tips for Effective Workshops

33:23 The Impact of AI on the Workplace

41:21 Eliminating Time-Wasting Activities

45:12 Conclusion and Final Thoughts

⚡️ In each episode, Paddy Dhanda deep dives into a new human Superpower to help you thrive in the age of AI.

Paddy Dhanda (Host)

Paddy works at the largest Tech training organisation in the UK and is passionate about helping tech professionals build human skills to thrive in the age of AI.

Contact Paddy: [email protected]

Subscribe to my newsletter:

👉 Newsletter: https://www.superpowers.school/subscribe

Janna Bastow, co-founder of Mind the Product and ProdPad, shares her journey of becoming a product manager, launching the world's largest community for product people, and the challenges of transitioning to entrepreneurship.

From unexpected career paths to understanding key skills for success in product management, Janna provides invaluable insights and practical tips for anyone looking to break into product management.

The conversation delves into product discovery, the impact of AI in product management, and the importance of aligning product goals with business needs. Jana also discusses the unique challenges of curating events and scaling a community from a small gathering to a global phenomenon.

00:00 Introduction to the World's Largest Product Community

01:03 Superpower: Connecting the Dots in Product Management

02:07 Journey into Product Management: Accidental Beginnings

04:51 Defining the Role of a Product Manager

06:03 Skills for Success in Product Management

09:40 Breaking into Product Management: Tips

17:17 Balancing Customer Needs and Business Goals

21:54 The Importance of Product Discovery

25:27 The Birth of Mind the Product

28:20 The Growth of a Product Community

31:02 Building a Community and Selling Out Events

37:30 Founding ProdPad: From Idea to Execution

43:24 Integrating AI in Product Management

48:23 Reflections and Future Outlook

Janna Bastow

Janna Bastow is the inventor of the Now-Next-Later roadmap and is co-founder and CEO of ProdPad, product management and roadmapping software for product people. Janna is also co-founder of ProductTank and Mind the Product, the global community of product managers. She often starts and stops conversations with the question: “What problem are you trying to solve?”

⚡️ In each episode, Paddy Dhanda deep dives into a new human Superpower to help you thrive in the age of AI.

Paddy Dhanda (Host)

Paddy works at the largest Tech training organisation in the UK and is passionate about helping tech professionals build human skills to thrive in the age of AI.

Contact Paddy: [email protected]

Subscribe to my newsletter:

👉 Newsletter: https://www.superpowers.school/subscribe

We explore the power of storytelling with Geoff White, an investigative journalist and co-host of the popular BBC podcast 'The Lazarus Heist.'

Geoff shares the story of North Korea's cybercriminal activities, particularly the infamous Bangladesh Bank heist. He shares insights into the underpinnings of successful cybersecurity breaches and the human vulnerabilities they exploit.

Geoff also discusses his career trajectory, tips for compelling storytelling, and his experiences interviewing key figures involved in these cybercrimes. The episode highlights the importance of emotional connection and narrative in effectively communicating complex information, both in cybersecurity and beyond.

00:00 The Tragic Tale of Ignaz Semmelweis

03:52 Introducing Geoff White: Master Storyteller

14:53 The Genesis of the Lazarus Heist

18:24 The Bangladesh Bank Heist

20:47 The Heist Unfolds: From Bank to Casino

22:28 Personal Connection to the Heist

23:26 Cybersecurity Lessons from the Lazarus Heist

26:25 The Art of Storytelling in Investigative Journalism

30:42 Memorable Interviews and Behind-the-Scenes

33:31 Final Thoughts

⚡️ In each episode, Paddy Dhanda deep dives into a new human Superpower to help you thrive in the age of AI.

Paddy Dhanda (Host)

Paddy works at the largest Tech training organisation in the UK and is passionate about helping tech professionals build human skills to thrive in the age of AI.

Contact Paddy: [email protected]

Subscribe to my newsletter:

👉 Newsletter: https://www.superpowers.school/subscribe

Guest: Geoff White

With more than a decade of experience covering computer hacking for the likes of Channel 4 News, BBC News and Forbes online, Geoff is one of the world’s leading journalists in this field. From ransomware to business email compromise to nation-state attacks, he has delved deep into the tactics that cyber crime gangs use to target their victims, and shares the insights that can help organisations protect themselves from attack.He has given keynote talks for leading tech security companies and at major conferences including DefCon and InfoSec.

Website: https://geoffwhite.tech/

We are always taught to put others before ourselves. But when we put ourselves first, it creates a sense of guilt.

One of the rare moments when we accept we should is when the cabin crew reminds us on a flight:

“Put on your own oxygen mask before assisting others.”

It’s a simple but powerful reminder.

In today’s episode, I had the pleasure of speaking to Self Care expert Araceli Higueras and author of And how? A guide to self-care, self-leadership and purpose.

The Superpowers of Self-Care and Self-Love

One of the biggest investments we can make is in ourselves. When you invest in your own well-being, you’re building resilience, emotional stability, and a stronger capacity to handle challenges.

Self-care isn’t about extravagant spa days or indulgent treats (though those are nice occasionally). It’s about maintaining your emotional and mental equilibrium to give your best to the people and tasks that matter. Imagine trying to pour water from an empty jug—impossible, right? The same goes for your energy and focus. You can’t give what you don’t have.

Think of self-care and self-love as maintenance for the “machine” that keeps you running. It’s the oil that keeps the cogs running smoothly.

Learning from Life’s Pivotal Moments

For many, the journey toward prioritizing self-care starts with a wake-up call. Araceli knows this firsthand. When she developed alopecia areata—a condition triggered by stress—it forced her to rethink her approach to life and work.

Now, she helps professionals navigate transitions like career changes, parenthood, and leadership shifts. These moments often bring stress, but they’re also opportunities to lean into self-care and redefine priorities.

The Role of Reflection and Purpose

Araceli took her experience a step further by writing a book: And How? A Guide to Self-Help, Self-Leadership, and Purpose. It emerged from a time of uncertainty—losing her job—but became a resource for others navigating their own challenges.

Her story is a reminder that self-care isn’t just about physical or emotional upkeep; it’s about aligning your actions with your values. Reflection, whether through journaling or intentional thinking, is a key part of finding that alignment.

Five Practical Self-Care Tips for Professionals

Here are five actionable ways to incorporate self-care into your busy routine:

* Move Your Body DailyEven a short walk or stretch can clear your mind and boost creativity. Movement doesn’t just improve your physical health—it’s a way to reset mentally during a hectic day.

* Create Simple RitualsSelf-care can be small. Applying your favorite hand lotion, lighting a candle, or savoring your morning coffee can ground you in the present moment. These rituals create micro-breaks that recharge your energy.

* Define Your Core ValuesTake time to reflect on what truly matters to you. Knowing your values helps you prioritize what deserves your energy and attention.

* Lean on Your Support NetworkFeeling overwhelmed? Reach out to friends, colleagues, or mentors. Asking for help isn’t a sign of weakness—it’s a way to share the load.

* Challenge Harmful BeliefsLet go of the idea that self-care is selfish. Taking care of yourself ensures you can show up as your best self, which benefits everyone around you.

Why Self-Leadership Matters

Self-leadership is about taking ownership of your well-being and your choices. Whether you’re a formal leader or not, listening to yourself, recognizing your stressors, and taking steps to address them is crucial for thriving both personally and professionally.

For professionals juggling multiple demands, this means setting boundaries, managing expectations, and giving yourself permission to pause. Burnout doesn’t just happen—it’s the result of consistently ignoring your own needs.

The Power of Small, Consistent Habits

Self-care doesn’t have to be about large lifestyle changes. That five-minute morning meditation or the habit of drinking water regularly adds up over time. These small, consistent actions create a foundation of resilience.

Final Thoughts

Caring for yourself isn’t selfish—it’s essential. Whether you’re a facilitator managing complex workshops or a professional navigating big career transitions, self-care equips you to handle challenges with clarity and strength.

Start small. Choose one habit that resonates with you and build from there. Remember, when you prioritize yourself, you’re not just improving your own life—you’re elevating the way you show up for everyone around you.

Your future self will thank you.

Guest: Araceli Higueras

A Barcelona native based in London since 2002, is a multifaceted professional with a background in business administration. Fluent in English and French, she holds a CEMS master's in international management from HEC Paris. With two decades in financial software, Ara has excelled in training, consulting, data modelling, software development and user experience design. Alongside her corporate journey, she embraced coaching in 2009, exploring diverse methodologies such as neuro-linguistic programming, neuroscience and clean language. Ara, a polyglot mastering German and Japanese and dabbling in Greek, Swedish, Italian and Portuguese, champions presence and communication. Guiding her coaching relationships is a commitment to clarity, flexibility, accountability and continuous learning. Passionate about empowering individuals with choices, criteria for battles and self-reliance, Ara believes in giving back. Whether volunteering with the elderly, contributing to various organisations, or serving as a charity trustee, she embodies a commitment to service, improvement, equality and fairness. A dedicated sportswoman, avid reader and handcraft enthusiast, Ara's trajectory underscores her unwavering passion for learning, personal development and supporting others through coaching.

Links:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/aracelihigueras/

https://www.instagram.com/youarasuccess/

https://www.amazon.co.uk/how-guide-self-care-self-leadership-purpose/dp/B0CZ443QN2/

Stuart Young is a fellow expert in visual thinking, product facilitation, and agile methodologies. We delve into the essence of authenticity in facilitation, the power of visual thinking, the importance of creating a psychologically safe environment, and techniques for effective virtual and face-to-face collaboration.

Key points include the significance of human connections, inclusivity, and continuous learning as essential elements for future-proofing careers in an automated world.

00:00 Introduction

01:53 The Power of Authenticity

04:49 Creating Psychological Safety in Facilitation

09:14 The Magic of Visual Thinking

12:44 Future-Proofing with Human Skills

17:27 Facilitation Techniques and Tools

23:53 Trends in Agile and Product Management

26:30 Final Thoughts and Farewell

⚡️ In each episode, Paddy Dhanda deep dives into a new human Superpower to help you thrive in the age of AI.

Paddy Dhanda (Host)

Paddy works at the largest Tech training organisation in the UK and is passionate about helping tech professionals build human skills to thrive in the age of AI.

Contact Paddy: [email protected]

Subscribe to my newsletter:

👉 Newsletter: https://www.superpowers.school/subscribe

In this episode, we explore the remarkable journey of Andy Paige, a TV personality, author, and inventor, who shares how the superpower of kindness has shaped her career.

Andy emphasizes the importance of kindness in overcoming adversity and building lasting relationships.

00:00 A Tale of Birmingham in the 1970s

01:40 The Friendship That Defied Prejudice

04:28 A Special Guest with a Superpower

05:58 The Journey to General Hospital

10:58 Revolutionizing TV Shopping

20:34 The Power of Kindness

24:46 Building Friendships Through Kindness

25:39 The Impact of Upbringing and Environment

30:12 Facing Adversity and Finding Strength

34:05 Turning Tragedy into Triumph

38:00 The Power of Positive Energy

41:39 Final Thoughts and Reflections

Guest: Andy Paige

SOAP ACTRESS, PODCAST HOST, QVC GUEST HOST, BEAUTY/IMAGE/LIFESTYLE EXPERT FOR NATIONAL TV & RADIO

With her current role as Pearl, on ABC's General Hospital, Andy Paige mimics her actual QVC guest host expertise, captivating and selling products to both TV audiences through innovative consumer advertising.

You can find Andy's podcast, The Dating Lab with the Hillbilly Yenta on both Youtube and podcast platforms and listen or watch her explore modern dating, its frustrations, realities and solutions with interesting and funny guests from all walks of life.

Website: https://shophomeandheart.com/

⚡️ In each episode, Paddy Dhanda deep dives into a new human Superpower to help you thrive in the age of AI.

Paddy Dhanda (Host)

Paddy works at the largest Tech training organisation in the UK and is passionate about helping tech professionals build human skills to thrive in the age of AI.

Contact Paddy: [email protected]

Subscribe to my newsletter:

👉 Newsletter: https://www.superpowers.school/subscribe

In this episode, Steve Stratton shares his fascinating journey from securing presidential visits with the Secret Service to becoming a cybersecurity expert and a prolific author.

Discover how storytelling and team building have been pivotal throughout his career, learn about the evolving landscape of cybersecurity, and receive invaluable advice for young professionals.

Stratton's compelling experiences and wisdom offer a unique perspective on resilience, adaptability, and the importance of lifelong learning.

00:00 Securing Presidential Visits: Behind the Scenes

00:45 Introducing Paddy Dhanda: Building Human Skills for the Future

01:23 Team Building Superpower: The Power of Storytelling

01:51 From the Redwoods to the White House: A Journey Begins

03:20 Secret Service and Beyond: A Career in Communications

05:47 The Art of Team Building: Creativity and Diversity

10:17 Hiring for Initiative: Identifying Great Talent

16:14 Early Career Adventures: White House Communications

21:25 High-Stakes Moments: Security and Danger

25:55 Military Culture and Personal Growth

32:07 Cybersecurity Threats and Personal Safety

33:36 Protecting Personal Data: Tips and Tricks

36:42 National Infrastructure Vulnerabilities