In this episode of This Connected Life, host Mel Kettle dives into the complexities of communication and connection in a disconnected world with guest Victoria Rennoldson. Victoria is a leadership communication coach and certified cultural intelligence trainer who works with global leaders and teams to amplify their impact, speak with authority, and lead confidently across diverse cultures. Together, Mel and Victoria discuss what it truly means to connect in today’s fast-paced, tech-driven world, as well as practical ways to foster collaboration and inclusivity in global teams.

We talk about:

Defining True Connection: Why connection is more than just hopping on a Zoom call.

Navigating Cultural Differences: How cultural influences affect communication styles and team dynamics.

Leadership Challenges in Global Teams: Common communication pitfalls and how to overcome them.

Practical Tips for Inclusive Leadership: Using tools and strategies to engage all team members, regardless of culture or communication style.

Building Confidence as a Leader: How to amplify your strengths and show up authentically.

Fun superpowers and coffee

Victoria Rennoldson is an award-winning cultural intelligence and communication coach, and the founder of Culture Cuppa.

In her view, the communication and cultural gap is a huge waste of talent and valuable ideas for your team and organisation. She is passionate about achieving an equal share of voice for everybody in multicultural and multilingual teams. 

Victoria works with talented and ambitious individuals and teams all over the world, who need help with leadership communication skills, communicating confidently and with the cultural challenges of collaborating successfully and building trust with global teams, international customers and partners.

You can connect with Victoria:

LinkedIn

The Culture Cuppa website and podcast

Buy a copy of my book, Fully Connected, here: https://www.melkettle.com/store/p/fullyconnectedbook

Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melkettle/ 

and Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melkettle/ 

In this episode of This Connected Life, Mel Kettle welcomes back Steph Clarke, a multi-potentialite, lifelong learner, and futures thinking specialist, to discuss the evolving nature of connection, foresight, and the future of friendship.

Steph shares her expertise on futures thinking, how leaders can use foresight to stay relevant, and why friendship deserves more value in today’s world.

We talk about:

Resources:

Connect with Steph:

Buy a copy of my book, Fully Connected, here: https://www.melkettle.com/store/p/fullyconnectedbook

Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melkettle/ 

and Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melkettle/ 

In this episode of This Connected Life, Mel Kettle sits down with marketing strategist and consultant Bec Chappell to explore the true meaning of connection—both in business and in life. Bec shares her insights into building genuine relationships in an increasingly digital world, the role of social media in marketing, and how to stand out authentically in a crowded market.

We talk about:

• The Importance of Real Connections

Connect with Bec Chappell:

• LinkedIn: Bec Chappell

Whether you're a business owner, a marketer, or just someone navigating the complexities of modern relationships, this episode is filled with actionable advice and lighthearted moments that remind us of the power of connection. Listen in and get inspired to bring more authenticity into all areas of your life.

• Learn more about the Confident Communicator workshops I mention here: https://courses.melkettle.com/comms2024

In this episode of This Connected Life, I explore the power of introverts in the workplace, especially in leadership roles. Despite a common misconception that introverts can’t thrive in fast-paced, vocal environments, I share my personal experiences and strategies for excelling as a quieter leader, including deep thinking, problem-solving, and building meaningful relationships.

I also share practical tips for introverts who want to command attention without being the loudest voice in the room.

I talk about:

How introverts often possess unique strengths like focus, observation, and empathy that make them strong leaders.

Notable introverted leaders like Oprah, Bill Gates, and Sheryl Sandberg exemplify how quiet strength can lead to monumental success.

Tips for introverts to thrive: lead with your strengths, speak when it matters, and build one-on-one connections.

How to leverage non-verbal communication and make a strong impression without saying a word.

Quiet leadership can be powerful due to its foundation in thoughtfulness, authenticity, and depth.

Download the free checklist 10 Steps to Communicate with Confidence: https://courses.melkettle.com/checklist 

Learn more about the Confident Communicator workshops I mention here: https://courses.melkettle.com/comms2024

Buy a copy of my book, Fully Connected, here: https://www.melkettle.com/store/p/fullyconnectedbook

Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melkettle/ 

and Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melkettle/ 

In this episode of This Connected Life, Mel talks with Pauly Grant, Chief Talent Officer for Publicis Groupe ANZ and APAC.

Pauly is a creative problem solver who identifies and embraces new approaches to solve complex problems by leveraging data and insights. She believes that fostering an inclusive, enabling culture is a driver for exceptional business performance, and we talk a lot about this in this episode. As a leader, Pauly’s focus is on making the shift from how to create a great employee experience, to a great life experience for people.

We talked about:

HR from the perspective of the people rather than risk and compliance, which most focus on

the power of connection, in terms of people, place and purpose

fostering belonging at work

how Publicis Group supports women going through menopause with menopause leave, and coaching and mentoring programs

Trust, flexibility and a focus on behaviour instead of strict guidelines.

Connect with Pauly on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/pauly-grant-6066423a/

Learn more about the Confident Communicator workshops I mention here: https://courses.melkettle.com/comms2024

Buy a copy of my book, Fully Connected, here: https://www.melkettle.com/store/p/fullyconnectedbook

Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melkettle/ 

and Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melkettle/ 

In this episode of This Connected Life, I dive deep into the world of functional medicine and body burnout with Filipa Bellette. Filly shares her incredible journey from personal health crises to co-founding a multi-award-winning health practice, Chris & Filly Functional Medicine. Together with her husband Chris, Filly has helped over 2,500 clients overcome burnout and regain their health through a root cause approach.

We talked about:

Balancing life and work and working with your spouse

the importance of deep trust and connection with oneself as the foundation for all other connections in life

Healing body burnout and the four-step process Filly uses in her practice to help clients recover from burnout,

The impact of unconscious beliefs

Practical and actionable advice on improving sleep, diet, and movement to support overall well-being and prevent burnout.

Buy Filly’s book, Ending Body Burnout

Sign up for the free 3-day live coaching experience to rewire your brain and end body burnout

You can connect with Filly:

via her website

on the socials: Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn

Like this show?

Please leave me a review here — even one sentence helps! Consider including your Instagram handle so I can thank you personally.

Connect with Mel on LinkedIn and let her know your top takeaway from this episode

Follow Mel on Instagram

In this episode I talk to my gorgeous friend Emma Walkinshaw. Emma is a transformational coach, accredited yoga instructor, and dynamic entrepreneur passionate about empowering women. We talk about:

Embracing your body, body acceptance and the challenging toxic diet culture

Starting your day with intention through simple practices like yoga, meditation

How collaboration has been key to Emma’s success and fulfillment

The significance of self-compassion in navigating life’s challenges.

Resources

Buy Emma’s new book: 365 Days of Morning Magic: A Daily Guide to Set Your Intentions

Emma’s transformative programs: 21 Minutes of Morning Magic and Embody Me

Emma Walkinshaw is a dedicated Transformational Coach, Accredited Yoga Instructor, and a dynamic entrepreneur with a passion for empowering women. As the Founder of the transformative "21 Minutes of Morning Magic" and "Embody Me Program," she creates spaces for growth and self-discovery.

Emma launched her first business at 23. Today, her true passion is in guiding women to elevate their self- awareness and self-confidence, challenging toxic diet culture, and encouraging the acceptance of their authentic selves.

Her work is a testament to her commitment to fostering a world where women feel empowered, confident, and aligned with their true selves.

You can connect with Emma:

via her website

Instagram: @emma_walkinshaw

Join the 21 Minutes of Morning Magic group on Facebook: 21 Minutes of Morning Magic

Mel Kettle is a leadership communication strategist, speaker, author, and facilitator. She works with leaders and teams to help them communicate so they create real connection and sustained engagement.

Mel’s work positively impacts people personally and professionally, whether she is facilitating a communication strategy workshop, running a training program on how to talk about menopause at work, or speaking about self-leadership at a conference.

In 2022 and 2023 Mel was one of only seven Australians recognised by leadersHum as one of the Top 200 Biggest Voices in Leadership.

She is the author of two books, the best-selling Fully Connected and The Social Association.

Like this show?

Please leave me a review here — even one sentence helps! Consider including your Instagram handle so I can thank you personally.

Connect with Mel on LinkedIn and let her know your top takeaway from this episode

Follow Mel on Instagram 

Leanne Hughes’ mission is to help you realise what’s possible, is possible for you and your business.

She is a consultant, speaker, and facilitator helping you maximise your team’s potential by creating influential, contagious work experiences.

Clients work with Leanne for her energy and unique approaches that provide cut-through strategies for embarking on a change initiative, or to shift performance or culture to achieve next-level success. 

She was inducted into The Million Dollar Consulting® Hall of Fame in 2022, recognised by peers as being among the world leaders in consulting, as evidenced by empirical accomplishments in client results, professional contributions, and intellectual property. In 2021, Leanne was the winner of the Asia Pacific Learning Impact awards for Learning Professional of the Year. She’s a proud mentor as part of the Minerva network: Women supporting Australian women in the business of sport.

Leanne hosts both the First Time Facilitator and Leanne Hughes’ Work and Live Large podcasts and is the author of The Two Hour Workshop Blueprint.

You can connect with Leanne:

via her website

LinkedIn

Instagram

Join Leanne’s Facebook group, The Flipchart

Leanne was a guest on episode 47, recorded waaaay back in August 2020. We have had so many amazing conversations since then, that I thought we should record another one for you! We talked about:

the fabulous Nick Gray and his blind date in Tokyo that has taken Twitter / X by storm (you can follow him here), and how being brave and putting yourself out there can reap so many rewards

adapting to change during COVID

connecting across borders

the power of vibe - and yes, we were influenced by the fabulous Australian movie The Castle 😂

the underestimated power of interpersonal connection in business

Leanne’s book "The Two-Hour Workshop Blueprint”

setting boundaries

AND SO MUCH MORE!

Listen to episode 47, my first chat with Leanne

Buy Leanne’s book "The Two-Hour Workshop Blueprint"

Buy Nick Gray's book "The Two-Hour Cocktail Party"

Michael Bungay Stanier

Buy a ticket to Leanne’s workshop with Michael Bungay Stanier

Mel Kettle is a leadership communication strategist, speaker, author, and facilitator. She works with leaders and teams to help them communicate so they create real connection and sustained engagement.

Mel’s work positively impacts people personally and professionally, whether she is facilitating a communication strategy workshop, running a training program on how to talk about menopause at work, or speaking about self-leadership at a conference.

In 2022 and 2023 Mel was one of only seven Australians recognised by leadersHum as one of the Top 200 Biggest Voices in Leadership.

She is the author of two books, the best-selling Fully Connected and The Social Association.

Like this show?

Please leave me a review here — even one sentence helps! Consider including your Instagram handle so I can thank you personally.

Connect with Mel on LinkedIn and let her know your top takeaway from this episode

Follow Mel on Instagram and Twitter (now X)

Join leadership communication strategist Mel Kettle as she explores how you can become more successful in business and in life by becoming more connectable.

Mel has almost 30 years of experience working with leaders and teams that want to build connected and trusted organisations.

When we connect first with ourselves, we are better equipped to communicate and connect with others, leading to stronger and healthier relationships.

In this episode I talk about:

the importance of social media for connection

the early days of Twitter and how it led to friendships, community and trust

using LinkedIn for business

building a strong online presence.

Connect with Mary Butler on LinkedIn and read her West Wing and leadership series

Need help with raising your social media profile? Get in touch!

Dello Mano brownies - they really are the best!

Buy a copy of The Social Association

Download LinkedIn in 10 Minutes a Day - for free

Mel Kettle is a leadership communication strategist, speaker, author, and facilitator. She works with leaders and teams to help them communicate so they create real connection and sustained engagement.

Mel’s work positively impacts people personally and professionally, whether she is facilitating a communication strategy workshop, running a training program on how to talk about menopause at work, or speaking about self-leadership at a conference.

In 2022 and 2023 Mel was one of only seven Australians recognised by leadersHum as one of the Top 200 Biggest Voices in Leadership.

She is the author of two books, the best-selling Fully Connected and The Social Association.

Like this show?

Please leave me a review here — even one sentence helps! Consider including your Instagram handle so I can thank you personally.

Connect with Mel on LinkedIn and let her know your top takeaway from this episode

Follow Mel on Instagram and Twitter (now X)

Join leadership communication strategist Mel Kettle as she explores how you can become more successful in business and in life by becoming more connectable.

In this episode, I talk to productivity expert Donna McGeorge.

Donna McGeorge is all about doing things your future self will thank you for.

Donna challenges existing concepts of time management and productivity, championing a new, more personalised approach. She knows the best way to combat the myth of "wasted time" is to live deliberately, and she is passionate about empowering individuals, teams, and organisations to be more purposeful. 

She is the author of 11 books and publications, including the best-selling productivity series, It’s About Time, and her latest book, The ChatGPT Revolution.

Donna and I talk about:

the levels and types of friendship

how small changes can leave a big impact

using AI and ChatGPT to meal plan

creating capacity in our days and weeks

productivity is about more than hacks and tips

making decisions to make life easier

rest, fuel, movement.

Donna’s books

ChatGPT

Oura Ring (save $US40 with this affiliate link)

Spooks (on Amazon Prime)

Bones (on Disney+)

You can connect with Donna:

via her website

LinkedIn

Instagram

Like this show?

Please leave me a review here — even one sentence helps! Consider including your Instagram handle so I can thank you personally.

Connect with Mel on LinkedIn and let her know your top takeaway from this episode

Follow Mel on Instagram