Life Beyond The Numbers

#177 Sleep - Dan White

"There's four key components that I focus on in my work and my programs. The environment [ ]. There's behaviour. You would be shocked if I told you that almost every single thing that we do from the moment we wake up until the moment we go to bed, is an amalgamation of the quality later that night of how we sleep." Dan White
 
Dan White and I discuss the critical role of sleep in our daily lives. He outlines four key components - environment, behaviour, psychology, and culture - that influence sleep. We delve into Dan's personal experiences with sleep, why quality trumps quantity, and how our modern lifestyles impact our sleep and circadian rhythms. Dan shares valuable insights into the interplay between sleep, health and well-being, and performance at work. We also touch on Dan's initiatives with Sleep Better, Live Better Foundation which focuses on educating younger generations about the benefits of proper sleep habits. Throughout, Dan stresses the value of simple solutions, like spending time outdoors and integrating natural light into daily routines, to improve sleep and health.
 
Daniel White is a Registered Nutritionist (MSc, ANutr) and Functional Medicine Certified Health Coach (FMCHC) with extensive educational, research and clinical experience in the fields of nutrition, psychology, stress management, sleep science, health education and human behaviour change. Daniel educates people on how to radically transform their lives whilst spreading his passion for a natural and holistic evidence-based approach to health and well-being. 
 
Connect with Daniel
Through social media: LinkedIn and Instagram
Visit his website
Check out Sleep Better Live Better Foundation
 
Resources Mentioned
Why We Sleep, Matthew Walker
The Biology of Sleep & Your Unique Sleep Needs | Huberman Lab Guest Series with Dr. Matt Walker

#176 Trust - Kevin Chevis

"The one thing ..... there's so many. I would probably say, as a reaction to your question, trust yourself and other people." Kevin Chevis
 
Kevin Chevis shares valuable insights from his extensive career in a variety of leadership roles, highlighting his diverse experiences, including with mergers, acquisitions, and navigating financial challenges. He discusses the significant shift he experienced from merely selling products, like speed cameras, to engaging in initiatives that make the world safer. Kevin emphasises the importance of developing intimate, trusting relationships with clients and suppliers, focusing on long-term goals, and fostering open communication. He discusses the impact of a strong internal company culture that values empathy, trust, and effective communication and fosters environments where people are motivated to contribute and succeed. Kevin recounts the challenges and successes of working in international and diverse environments, including navigating cultural differences in multinational teams. Throughout the episode, Kevin reflects on his career milestones, the impact of mentorship, and his belief in trusting and supporting employees for better business outcomes.
 
Kevin Chevis has extensive international experience running technology-based companies. He has been involved in several MBO/MBI deals involving Private Equity, all with successful exits. He is an innovative thinker, with excellent communication skills, P&L experience and a proven ability to lead and drive strategic development, cultural change, sales and client service on a global basis.
 
Connect with Kevin:
Reach out to him on LinkedIn 
 
Resources Mentioned:
Leading Beyond the Numbers by Susan Ni Chriodain 
Helen Joy at People Spark

#175 Book Launch - LinkedIn Live Replay with Introduction

"Susan, I've taken enough time with these questions. Firstly, I just want to say, I'm thankful that I've met you. And two, this is an absolutely brilliant book and I love it." Matt Phelan
In this episode I celebrate the launch of my new book Leading Beyond the Numbers: How accounting for emotions tips the balance at work. The book was launched during a LinkedIn Live on Monday May 13th with the help of Matt Phelan, who wrote the foreword to the book, and Dr. Susanne Evans. The book has already achieved bestseller status in three Amazon categories in the UK. We explore the key themes, some takeaways and personal reflections including the creative process, navigating self doubt and what I hope the legacy of the book will be. Please do purchase, read and review the book to help spread its impactful message.
 
Matt Phelan is a dad, founder, business adviser & keynote speaker as well as being a proud geek (his words!) and supporter of decent people. He believes that the future of tech is human and co-founded The Happiness Index to try and positively shape the future of work in a small but important way. Matt has written two books ‘Freedom to be Human: The business case for happiness’ and most recently ‘The Happiness Index: Why today's emotions equal tomorrow's business success.’ He also hosts the insightful ‘Happiness and Humans’ podcast.
 
Dr Susanne Evans creates change, one story at a time. She is on a mission to change the way transformations are managed in organisations. She founded Feldspar Consulting in 2007 to help her clients lead change in a more human, effective way through her work as an organisation change consultant, trainer, coach and researcher. Susanne is a storyteller and is writing ‘ChangeStories: How to have powerful conversations, tell inspiring stories and build engagement for transformation’ which is due to be published in November and is the host of the engaging ChangeStories podcast.
 
Resources Mentioned 
Follow this link to purchase Leading Beyond the Numbers: How accounting for emotions tips the balance at work
If you would like to read a preview of this book follow this link.
If you would like to watch the LinkedIn Live click here

#174 Variation is the Norm - Susan Ni Chriodain

"Variation is the norm, that actually we're all unique. We are all different. And even how we approach learning and decision making, we're all different." Susan Ni Chriodain
In this special episode of 'Life Beyond the Numbers,' I take on a unique role as the interviewee, giving Dr. Susanne Evans the reins to explore the themes, inspirations, and key takeaways from my about to be launched book, 'Leading Beyond the Numbers.' This episode not only showcases the book's concepts but also reflects on the broader implications for personal development and organisational change. We shed light on why embracing individual differences and genuine self-expression in professional settings is not just beneficial but essential for creating more engaging and effective workplaces. We conclude with emphasis on the SEE-SAW acronym (Sleep, Eating & Hydration, Exercise, Sense-making, Awareness, Wisdom) as a practical framework for capturing the essence of this book.
 
Susan Ni Chriodain is a leadership coach, facilitator and experienced finance director Susan Ní Chríodáin who sits at the nexus of business and emotion and in her book Leading Beyond the Numbers she reveals how to reintroduce humanity into the workplace, for improved engagement and fulfilment, benefiting both individuals and organisations.
Dr. Susanne Evans, host of ChangeStories podcast and founder of Feldspar Consulting, was the guest host on this episode.
 
Connect with Susan
On LinkedIn
 
Resources Mentioned
Leading Beyond the Numbers: How accounting for emotions tips the balance at work is published on May 14th 2024 and can be purchased from https://mybook.to/LBTN
Lisa Feldman Barrett
Episode #126 Slowing Down - Professor Giana M. Eckhardt
Episode #127 The Performance Paradox - Kerry Cullen
Episode #128 Alignment - Ana Bernardes
Episode #134 I Feel Like Me Again - Jo Hunter
Episode #67 Being Yourself - Eamon FitzGerald

#173 Momentum - a solo episode

"When momentum really comes into play so much of the background noise fades further into the background. And then momentum builds momentum. You become unstoppable, mostly!" Susan Ni Chriodain
 
In this episode you are invited to explore the multifaceted journey of writing and self-discovery, offering a glimpse into the challenges and rewards. I delve into the inner and outer challenges faced during the writing process, including self-doubt, perfectionism, and the importance of acknowledging progress. And I discuss the transformative impact of sharing the manuscript. I also emphasise the value of commitment, momentum, asking for help, and adapting personal routines to enhance your creativity and productivity. And I talk about celebrating the arrival of the book!
 
Leading Beyond the Numbers: How Accounting for Emotions Tips the Balance at Work will be published by Practical Inspiration Publishing on May 14th, 2024.
 
Connect with me:
On LinkedIn
Through my website: Beyond the Numbers
 
Resources Mentioned:
Leading Beyond the Numbers: How accounting for emotions tips the balance at work will be published on May 14th 2024 by Practical Inspiration Publishing. It is available for pre-order online at major booksellers and on Amazon.
David Whyte: Consolations and Start Close In

#172 Really Listening - Rob Lawrence

"Most of the time we're not listening, really listening. We're actually just thinking, what do I want to say next or what shall I say next? And just listening for the odd word or phrase that we need to hear in order to meaningfully respond in a way that satisfies us." Rob Lawrence
 
Rob Lawrence and I talk about the power of sound, the art of listening, and the journey of discovering and living one's truth. We delve into how our truths can be buried under societal expectations and the significance of listening — to both our inner selves and others — in uncovering and aligning with our truths. We also touch on the power of sound beyond its conventional appreciation, highlighting Rob's deep connection with sound and its impact on him. Rob shares insights from his personal journey, including a pivotal choice. He also talks about his podcast 'Inspirational Creatives,' its evolution, and his passion for collaboration and helping others find their voice and truth. 
 
Rob Lawrence is a qualified audio producer, author, podcaster and certified coach who helps creative entrepreneurs, high-achieving professionals and business leaders embrace the power of sound to broadcast messages worth listening to. As an audio production coach, he helps his clients hear the meaning and messages beyond their words, before helping them use technology and broadcasting tools to guide their audiences into powerful explorations, dialogues and conversations of the topics that matter most to them. Prior to this Rob had a 21-year career in Information Technology and audio production, led award-winning teams and helped revolutionise communications for major European and Australasian corporations and brands.
 
Connect with Rob
On LinkedIn
Through his website
 
Resources Mentioned
Inspirational Creatives Podcast

#171 Books with Dr. Susanne Evans, David Lee & Me

"Basically it's books that we recommend a lot or books that have really changed our practice." Dr. Susanne Evans
 
In honour of World Book Day and the value of reading Dr. Susanne Evans, David Lee and I recorded a conversation that explores a wide range of reads that have significantly impacted us including personal development, reflective practice, storytelling, neuroscience and touching on historical events such as the Rwandan Genocide. We each share insights on books that have changed our life, practice, or perspective, accompanied by anecdotes and a deeper look into the themes and lessons of selected works. This conversation offers listeners a rich tapestry of knowledge and a massive list of 'must-reads' for anyone looking to expand their understanding of themselves and the world through literature. 
 
The following titles are included in our conversation
The Right Questions by Debbie Ford
The Four Agreements by Don Miguel Ruiz
Presentation Zen by Garr Reynolds
Frequency by Penny Pierce
Man's Search for Meaning by Viktor Frankl
The Joy of Appreciative Living by Jacqueline Kelm
Reflective Practice in Medicine by John Launer
On Being Certain Robert A. Burton
Don't Bite the Hook by Pema Chodron
Season of Blood by Fergal Keane
Bittersweet by Susan Cain
The Long Win by Cath Bishop
The Soul's Code by James Hillman
Time to Think by Nancy Klein
Quiet by Susan Cain
Prayer to the Great Creator by Julia Cameron
Dealing with a Difficult Co-Worker by David Lee
Leading Beyond the Numbers by Susan Ni Chriodain
ChangeStories by Dr Susanne Evans
 
Dr Susanne Evans is an organisation change consultant, trainer, coach and researcher on a mission to change the way that transformations are managed in organisations. She founded Feldspar Consulting in 2007 to help her clients lead change in a more human, effective way. As well as writing and speaking about organisation change, Susanne hosts open storytelling workshops, supporting organisations and individuals in writing a compelling story for themselves, and she is the host of the popular ChangeStories podcast.
 
David Lee is a coach, consultant, workshop facilitator, keynote speaker, and author, who loves creating a win/win/win relationship between people and the organizations they work for. He helps leaders and leadership teams learn how to become "people whisperers", and by doing so, increase their ability to make their organization THE choice for "A List Talent" and inspire the best in their people.
 
Connect with Susanne
On LinkedIn
Through her website: Feldspar Consulting
Listen to Change Stories podcast
 
Connect with David
On LinkedIn 
Through his website Human Nature at Work
 

#170 Leaping Forward with Helen Joy

"Imagine if we create this whole chain of psychologically safe environments that every single individual in that chain had that sense of psychological safety. The innovation, the creativity and the sheer drive, growth, productivity and all of those things mean that we would be leaping forwards in terms of how we do things and generating new opportunities and new ways of doing things and better ways of doing things." Helen Joy
 
Helen Joy and I talk about how innovation and psychological safety are intrinsically linked. Helen highlights that a lack of psychological safety in the workplace stifles innovation by preventing people from expressing their ideas out of fear of judgment or humiliation. We chat through practical steps for fostering psychological safety at the individual, team, and organisational levels to create a conducive environment for innovation. Furthermore, we explore the challenges of maintaining such an environment across different parts of an organisation and the critical role of trust in building psychological safety. By addressing these challenges, organisations can unlock the full potential of their teams, enhance retention, and drive innovation.
 
Helen Joy is on a mission to change workplaces for the better by supporting that critical middle management level to develop the skills, knowledge and confidence to lead. She has more than 20 years experience in management training and her passion is in Leadership and Management Development, particularly for new and aspiring managers. Through People Sparks' bespoke, interactive programmes, Helen coaches businesses to create and motivate great managers, develop skills and confidence, and build environments that drive success. 
 
Connect with Helen
On LinkedIn
Through her website People Spark
 
Resources Mentioned:
Amy Edmondson
How Psychological Safety Powers Innovation on YouTube
 
 

#169 Insights Compilation

"Insights" is a compilation episode that explores themes of resourcefulness, inner resources, and personal responsibility in accessing those resources.
 
Through excerpts from previous episodes in 2024, you are introduced to various perspectives on living vibrant lives, self-leadership, the significance of listening to one's inner voice, and taking personal responsibility for one's joy and mindset. 
 
Insights includes excerpts from:
02:30 Karina Rook, Episode 159 Freedom to be Human
05:45 Claudia Anghel, Episode 161 All Roads Lead to Centre
09:30 Nathan Simmons, Episode 167 A Future Possibility
13.45 Caroline Tanja Banz, Episode 158 Wake Up!
17.45 Beth Stallwood, Episode 165 WorkJoy Formula
19:15 Andy Brown, Episode 166 Emotional Overdraft
22:00 Karina Rook, Episode 159 Freedom to be Human
 
 

#168 Leading. Beyond. The Numbers. - Solo Episode

"This book is about telling a different version of a story. That might begin to rebalance and imbalance. It is about leading beyond the numbers and still knowing our worth contribution and value. It is about recognising people as people and not as numbers on a payroll or statistics in a report." Susan Ni Chriodain 
 
In this solo episode I talk more about my upcoming book, Leading Beyond the Numbers: How Accounting for Emotions Tips the Balance at Work. The focus today is on the title. I talk about leading - leaders and leadership. I talk about 'beyond' and what that means. And I talk about 'the numbers' and leading beyond them.  
 
I am the host of Life Beyond the Numbers Podcast. I've recently written my first book which will be out in May '24. I believe that the future of work relies on us harnessing the power of conversation so we interact with one another with intention and integrity. I help people have more fulfilling work-lives by guiding them to see their uniqueness to let it shine through. 
Connect with me:
On LinkedIn
Through my website: Beyond the Numbers
 
Resources Mentioned:
Leading Beyond the Numbers: How accounting for emotions tips the balance at work will be published on May 14th 2024. It is available for pre-order online at major booksellers and on Amazon.
Episode 145 Facilitate People with John Fairhurst