The Sharpening Stone of Leadership: Insights from Faris Aranki

The Whisper of Resistance: Insights from Andrew Keating

In this episode of the How2-Change Words of Wisdom podcast, Andrew Keating, a seasoned transformation leader, delivers a powerful truth: “Not everyone wants your programme to succeed.” With years of experience managing high-stakes change programmes, Andrew reveals how resistance—whether subtle or overt—can shape the success or failure of initiatives. His unique perspective offers leaders actionable strategies for navigating resistance and turning it into opportunity.

Andrew has built a career leading large-scale transformations, M&A integrations, and turnaround efforts. His expertise lies in understanding and managing boardroom dynamics, uncovering hidden motivations, and aligning teams to achieve results. Andrew’s approach to addressing resistance has made him a sought-after advisor to executives tackling complex challenges.

Andrew’s approach reframes resistance as a signal rather than a barrier. For leaders managing transformation efforts—whether in M&A, turnarounds, or team transitions—this episode offers practical guidance for using resistance to uncover risks and seize opportunities. Andrew’s advice aligns perfectly with How2-Change’s mission to empower leaders with the tools and insights they need to achieve sustainable results.

Whether you’re an experienced executive or just stepping into a leadership role, Andrew’s insights will challenge the way you think about resistance and offer you strategies to lead with clarity and purpose.

At How2-Change, we specialise in turning challenges into opportunities. With tools like the How2-Change Reality Check® and actionable frameworks such as M&A in a Box, we help leaders navigate complexity and deliver lasting results.

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The Canvas of Character with Andrew Austin

In this episode of the How2-Change Words of Wisdom podcast, we’re joined by Andrew Austin, creator of Integral Eye Movement Therapy (IEMT) and Metaphors of Movement. Andrew’s unique approach combines therapeutic insight with practical tools for personal growth, leadership, and authenticity. He reveals why chasing status can ironically hold people back from real growth, and why true progress begins by embracing authenticity and centring work around meaningful actions.

Authenticity Over Status: Andrew’s main message is to let go of the pursuit of status in favour of nurturing personal and professional integrity. As he explains, the drive for validation often disconnects people from their true values, leading to burnout. Through the metaphor “The Canvas of Character,” Andrew describes personal growth as a work of art where each action is a brushstroke adding depth to our character. Leaders who prioritise integrity over recognition can inspire trust and create a healthier, more resilient team culture.

Transformation Through Metaphor: As both a course attendee and coaching client, I’ve personally experienced Andrew’s approach to Metaphors of Movement. He helps clients uncover unconscious metaphors they use to interpret their lives, revealing fresh perspectives and pathways for problem-solving. By bringing these metaphors to awareness, leaders and individuals alike can see their challenges in a new light, often uncovering solutions that uniquely suit their situations. This is a powerful method for those seeking creative ways to tackle obstacles in business and life.

Integral Eye Movement Therapy (IEMT): Andrew also shares his work with IEMT, a therapeutic model that assists individuals in reprocessing emotional “imprints” tied to past traumas. IEMT differs from conventional therapy as it allows clients to resolve issues without reliving them in detail. This helps individuals build personal resilience, an invaluable asset for leaders and organisations striving for stability in high-stakes environments.

Andrew Austin’s philosophy provides a transformative framework for engaging in meaningful work while staying authentic. His approach aligns with How2-Change’s mission to create lasting change by combining actionable tools with psychological insights. Known for supporting teams through mergers, acquisitions, and transformations, How2-Change brings added authenticity and introspection to each project. Whether you’re looking for personal growth or aiming to inspire authenticity within your team, this episode offers invaluable guidance for moving beyond superficial achievements to character-driven impact.

At How2-Change, our goal is to provide leaders and teams with the tools, mindset, and methods to achieve what may have once seemed impossible. Subscribe to the How2-Change Words of Wisdom podcast for more conversations that challenge conventional thinking and inspire meaningful change in business and life.

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In this thought-provoking episode of the How2-Change Words of Wisdom podcast, Benjamin Taylor, a visionary leader in organisational transformation, shares his unique insights into the art of change. For Benjamin, transformation isn’t just a single breakthrough moment; it’s a mosaic—a carefully constructed collection of ideas, experiences, and connections that reveal a larger, cohesive picture over time.

Title: The Double Helix of Success: How Win-Win Thinking Drives Business Transformation

Description:
Welcome to the How2-Change Words of Wisdom podcast, where we dive deep into the strategies and mindsets that help leaders navigate complex business landscapes. In this episode, Dan sits down with Antony Bream, founder of Ribbit Consulting, a seasoned sales director and transformation coach with over 30 years of experience building resilient client relationships in technology and financial services. Antony shares the importance of the Win-Win approach—a mindset that has helped him transform client partnerships from transactional interactions into powerful, enduring alliances that drive measurable impact.

Antony’s Win-Win philosophy serves as the “double helix” of business transformation: just as the strands of DNA interlock to create stability and resilience, so too does a partnership built on mutual success create sustainable growth. Antony explains how he developed this mindset while leading sales and transformation initiatives across high-stakes sectors like financial services, where risk aversion and high compliance standards demand more than a quick solution. His insights reveal why understanding the client’s needs—and aligning them with your own objectives—ensures both sides benefit in a way that’s productive and enduring.

At How2-Change, we’ve integrated the Win-Win philosophy into our own work, using our How2-Change Reality Check® to help clients bridge the gap between strategy and execution. By partnering with clients to unearth the hidden challenges and potential in their operations, we aim to ensure every transformation yields a legacy of growth, resilience, and shared success.

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If you’re interested in practical, no-nonsense advice on transformation, business resilience, and leadership, subscribe to How2-Change Words of Wisdom. Join us as we explore the best insights from leaders like Antony, whose unique experience combines both strategic and hands-on expertise in sales transformation, business coaching, and relationship-building.

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We’re on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and many other platforms so you can listen wherever you prefer. Follow our journey to discover the wisdom behind successful transformations and the tools to drive your own.

Welcome to this episode of the How2-Change Words of Wisdom podcast, where we uncover the essence of transformative leadership with insights from Tony Lockwood, a seasoned expert in change and transformation. Today, Tony shares a piece of advice that has shaped his approach for over 30 years: “People don’t care about what you know until they know that you care.” This wisdom, simple yet profound, speaks to the power of empathy as the cornerstone of successful transformation.

Empathy in leadership isn't just a ‘nice-to-have’; it's essential. In this episode, we delve into how empathy, like an architect’s blueprint, provides the foundation for sustainable change. An architect doesn’t merely focus on the structure but considers the needs and experiences of those who will live within it. Likewise, effective leaders look beyond strategy to ensure that their teams feel valued and understood, creating a culture where change isn’t a disruption but a shared journey.

Key Takeaways from Tony’s Episode:

Through How2-Change Reality Check®, we embed empathy into every stage of transformation. This proprietary methodology ensures that strategies are designed with people at the core, setting the foundation for lasting impact. By recognising the importance of both organisational goals and human needs, How2-Change helps leaders create transformations that are not only effective but meaningful.

Are you ready to apply empathy to your transformation strategy? Subscribe to How2-Change on Spotify, YouTube, Apple Podcasts, and other platforms to stay updated on future episodes. Here are the links:

Like an architect with a blueprint, great leaders craft their strategies with people in mind, building not just solutions but legacies. Tune in for insights that will inspire your journey in change and transformation.

#Leadership #Transformation #Empathy #How2Change #WordsOfWisdom #BusinessTransformation #TonyLockwood #Podcast

Clearing the Fog: Why Direct Communication Matters in M&A and Business Transformation

In this episode of the How2-Change Words of Wisdom podcast, Dan Leyland sits down with Dan Adler, Partner at Apiary Capital, to uncover the simple yet profound power of direct communication. Drawing on decades of experience in private equity, Adler shares the best piece of advice he’s ever received: "Always return someone’s call on the day they reach out." In an industry driven by high-stakes deals and ever-increasing complexity, Adler’s advice is a beacon of clarity—a way to cut through the noise and maintain human connection.

Why does this matter? When left unanswered, even minor issues can snowball, causing confusion, misalignment, and stress. But a timely call clears the air, helping professionals focus on core goals rather than anxieties. Adler’s insights reveal that direct communication is a critical skill for leaders in M&A, integration, and transformation, offering not only efficiency but also a touchpoint for building trust and addressing complex, often emotional concerns.

Through the "Clearing the Fog" metaphor, this episode illuminates the role of clear communication in navigating ambiguity and resolving issues promptly. As Adler explains, voice conversations are uniquely powerful for expressing tone and sentiment—elements that email lacks. In a world where inboxes overflow and CC lists mushroom, he advocates for the lost art of picking up the phone, pointing out that even the toughest issues seem lighter with the right conversation.

At How2-Change, we know that transformation success hinges on more than post-deal integration. It starts pre-deal, with rigorous due diligence, synergy modelling, and a clear governance structure. Our proprietary How2-Change Reality Check® ensures that these crucial early steps are executed with clarity and precision. Designed to act as a “fog-clearer,” How2-Change Reality Check® establishes streamlined communication pathways, sets up effective governance frameworks, and provides a structured approach to due diligence.

For M&A professionals, having the right people communicating in the right way can mean the difference between a seamless integration and a fragmented one. With the How2-Change Reality Check®, we don’t just prepare organisations for integration; we equip them to succeed from the outset. By kicking the tyres on deal assumptions, stress-testing synergy models, and ensuring transparent information flows, we help clients bridge the gap between vision and execution, transforming intent into measurable results.

Whether you're a leader in M&A, a private equity professional, or simply someone looking for practical advice on handling complex, fast-paced environments, this episode offers actionable insights that can make an immediate impact. Hear directly from Dan Adler as he breaks down the importance of clarity, direct communication, and proactive problem-solving in business.

Watch on YouTube, listen on Spotify, or find us on Apple Podcasts and your preferred platforms. Here are the links:

Join us as we explore how straightforward advice, like returning calls on time, can serve as a foundation for building trust and driving transformation forward. After all, even in the fog of change, a clear call can guide the way.

The How2-Change Reality Check®: Adding Clarity to Pre-Deal M&A DynamicsTune in for Insights on Navigating Change

The Compass Within: Trusting Your Inner Guidance for Leadership and Change

In this thought-provoking episode of the How2-Change Words of Wisdom podcast, we sit down with Amaranatho, a former Buddhist monk turned leadership coach, to explore the profound lessons he has carried from monastic life into his work with leaders today. With 15 years of experience as a monk and a degree in Artificial Intelligence, Amaranatho shares a unique blend of ancient wisdom and modern insights on how leaders can navigate complex and fast-paced environments with clarity and purpose.

The core of his best advice? Trust yourself. Initially learned as a simple response from his teacher when faced with strict monastic rules, this mantra evolved into a deep understanding of what it means to truly trust not just oneself, but life itself. It is an invitation to look beyond rigid structures and learn how to adapt, reflect, and lead with authenticity and presence.

This episode delves into the importance of pausing, connecting with your internal compass, and fostering relational awareness—skills that help leaders not only make decisions but make meaningful ones. We explore how this approach enables leaders to find purpose in challenging circumstances, and why trusting life, even amid uncertainty, is essential for growth and effective leadership.

At How2-Change, we use our proprietary How2-Change Reality Check® methodology to guide leaders in harnessing this inner compass. Our approach uncovers the root causes of challenges and sets leaders up for success by bridging the gap between strategy and execution. By integrating both the wisdom of ancient practices and contemporary insights, leaders can navigate the demands of M&A, integration, and transformation with confidence.

Join us as we discuss:

We add all episodes to YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and a variety of other platforms so you can pick your favourite. Here are the links:

Ready to discover how to tap into The Compass Within and lead with trust and purpose? Listen now, and don’t forget to subscribe for more insights from leaders and changemakers.

In this compelling episode of the How2-Change Words of Wisdom podcast, we sit down with Craig Willis, a respected expert in process optimisation and business transformation, to discuss the single most impactful piece of advice that shaped his approach to leadership and change. Craig recounts a defining moment from his early career when he was pitching consultancy work alongside a retired CIO in the retail industry. This experienced executive, who had faced countless high-stakes meetings, laid out a piece of wisdom that resonated deeply:

“As a C-level executive, I have a very, very short attention span. After this meeting, I’m moving straight into another one that’s just as important, if not more so. So, you have 60 seconds to tell me the problem and what I can do about it.”

This insight became a guiding principle for Craig, influencing not just his sales pitches but his entire approach to change management and stakeholder communication. In the world of business transformation, where attention spans are fleeting and priorities constantly shift, the ability to deliver concise, impactful messages is essential. Craig’s experience is a masterclass in understanding your audience and fine-tuning your communication to ensure that your message not only reaches but resonates with decision-makers at every level.

The Art of the One-Minute Pitch: Orchestrating Your Message Like a Symphony

Imagine your pitch as a carefully crafted symphony where every note matters. The first few seconds are your opening chord—the attention grabber. Just as a symphony needs a powerful start to engage the listener, your message must begin with a statement so clear and compelling that your audience can’t help but pay attention. Craig’s experience serves as a template for anyone looking to refine their elevator pitch or leadership communication.

Three Steps to Compose Your Perfect Pitch:

Customising the Pitch for Diverse Stakeholders

Craig highlights that no two audiences are the same. The best communicators know how to adjust their approach to cater to different needs:

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Craig’s story is a reminder that being an effective leader means mastering the art of impactful, concise communication. His 'elevator pitch symphony' strategy can help anyone, from C-level leaders to project managers, sharpen their skills and inspire action across their teams.

Tune in to this episode and explore how a simple shift in your communication style can make a lasting impact. Craig’s advice isn’t just about what you say; it’s about making every second count.

We release new episodes on platforms including YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more so that you can listen on your preferred platform. Here are direct links to follow and subscribe:

Igniting the Spark: Tony Nutley’s Journey from Belief to Action

In this episode of the How2-Change Words of Wisdom podcast, we welcome Tony Nutley, CEO and Founder of the UK College of Personal Development (UKCPD). Tony’s story is a compelling reminder that true transformation is sparked not just by belief but by the courage to act on that belief. With over 25 years dedicated to coaching, NLP, and leadership development, Tony’s career has impacted thousands of lives and continues to inspire.

Tony shares the single most impactful piece of advice he ever received: “If you believe in it and trust it, make it work for yourself.” This advice came at a pivotal moment early in his career when he was navigating the transition from theory to practice. Encouraged by these words, Tony took the leap, founding UKCPD and turning his knowledge into a living, breathing legacy. His journey exemplifies the metaphor of “igniting the spark”—a spark of belief that, when kindled with action, grows into a flame of meaningful change.

The conversation explores the importance of moving from insight to implementation, showing that the most significant results come when we commit to acting on our expertise. For leaders in M&A, integration, and business transformation, this is a powerful lesson: knowledge fuels intention, but action turns that intention into reality.

In this episode, Tony reflects on:

Key Takeaways for Listeners:

💡 This episode is a must-listen for anyone at the crossroads of belief and action, whether you’re leading an organization, managing change, or seeking personal growth. Gain insights that will motivate you to turn your beliefs into real, lasting impact.

🎧 We add all episodes to YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and various other platforms so you can pick your favourite. Here are the links:

🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe to the How2-Change channel and share this episode with anyone ready to ignite their journey of change.