Are we actually being productive, or are we just keeping ourselves busy? In this episode, we sit down with Kate Sotsenko to talk about the “busyness dilemma” and why so many leaders wear long hours and endless to-do lists like a badge of honor. We dig into the difference between activity and true productivity, the role of clear goals in good leadership, and why self-actualization isn’t just a personal journey but a leadership one.Kate opens up about her experiences with burnout and what she’s learned along the way, and together we explore how leaders can create environments where teams thrive without sacrificing well-being. From asking better questions to doing less in order to achieve more, this conversation is all about rethinking the way we approach leadership and success.If you’ve ever felt stretched too thin, struggled to balance pressure with purpose, or wondered how to foster a healthier team culture, this episode will give you both perspective and practical advice.Listen to FF on: YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0det-1a3XxlNgxdgFQ4nKwApple - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/fall-forward/id1759183835Visit Blend: Website - https://www.joinblend.com/Follow us:LinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/company/joinblend/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/join.blend/
In this episode of Fall Forward, international business expert and author Allyson Stewart-Allen unpacks why failure isn’t just inevitable in leadership and marketing, it's essential.
From global expansion gone wrong to cross-cultural misunderstandings, Allyson makes a compelling case for embracing failure as a path to growth, clarity, and resilience.
We explore how cultural assumptions shape leadership styles, why hiring for attitude beats hiring for skills, and how leaders can navigate the complexities of international business with curiosity and care. Allyson shares insights on communication differences between the UK and US, the impact of geopolitical shifts, and the daily practices that keep leaders grounded in uncertain times.
This conversation will challenge how you think about leadership, culture, and the future of marketing in an AI-driven world.
Trust us, you’ll want to hear this one.
Listen to FF on: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0det-1a3XxlNgxdgFQ4nKw/Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/fall-forward/id1759183835Visit Blend: Website - https://www.joinblend.com/Follow us:LinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/company/joinblend/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/join.blend/
In this episode of Fall Forward, productivity expert and author Graham Allcott challenges the traditional view of leadership by making a bold case for kindness as a strategic advantage. Far from being a soft or secondary trait, Graham shows how kindness fuels psychological safety, team trust, and long-term performance.We explore how empathy can transform workplace culture, why self-kindness is essential for leadership, and how leaders can balance tough decisions with genuine care. Graham shares career stories and practical insights on creating cultures where innovation thrives, feedback is delivered with grace, and people feel safe to grow and fail.Wherever you are in your leadership journey, this conversation will reshape how you think about productivity, team dynamics, and leadership itself. Don't miss it.Listen to FF on: YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0det-1a3XxlNgxdgFQ4nKwApple - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/fall-forward/id1759183835Visit Blend: Website - https://www.joinblend.com/Follow us:LinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/company/joinblend/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/join.blend/
What does it take to lead in a world shaped by uncertainty, remote work, and rapid tech change?
In the latest episode of Fall Forward, we had a chat with Asif Poonja, CEO of Fujitsu Americas, who shares how human-centered leadership, strong values, and cross-cultural understanding have guided his path.
We dive into the importance of feedback, and how to integrate AI without losing human connection. Alongside unpacking the role of failure in shaping resilient leaders and sharing candid stories of his career challenges to CEO.
If you're a leader trying to navigate the ever changing tech landscape, this episode is a must-watch.
Listen to FF on: YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0det-1a3XxlNgxdgFQ4nKwApple - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/fall-forward/id1759183835Visit Blend: Website - https://www.joinblend.com/Follow us:LinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/company/joinblend/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/join.blend/
On this episode of Fall Forward, we sit down with Richard Harris, Chief Legal Officer at Robert Walters, for a raw and thoughtful conversation on what leadership really looks like - real moments, missed calls, and all.
Richard opens up about how failure has shaped leadership journey, and why emotional intelligence, accountability, and self-awareness matter more than ever in high-pressure roles. From the dynamics of the boardroom to the challenges of advocating for neurodiversity, Richard brings a refreshing honesty to topics many leaders shy away from.
If you're a leader navigating complexity, driving change, or simply trying to lead with more purpose, this episode is for you.
In this episode of the Fall Forward podcast, we’re joined by Louise Scott, COO of Sustainability at PwC, for an insightful conversation on leadership, sustainability, and the evolving role of AI.Louise shares her perspectives on embracing failure as part of growth, the importance of honesty in leadership, and how encouraging ownership of mistakes within teams can lead to innovation. She also discusses the necessity of understanding the source of power used by AI, the efficiency it brings, and how it should complement human work rather than replace it.We dive into the key idea that companies truly committed to sustainability will be the ones to thrive in the future, and how the sustainability cause has progressed since “the person sat at the end of the corridor, with no support”. Louise also talks about the challenges of cross-functional alignment, emphasizing the role of honesty and collaboration in problem-solving. In this candid discussion, we explore why things often have to go wrong to ultimately go right, and how these experiences shape the path to success. Don’t miss this engaging conversation packed with valuable insights on leadership, innovation, and the future of sustainability in business.
Listen to FF on: YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0det-1a3XxlNgxdgFQ4nKwApple - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/fall-forward/id1759183835Visit Blend: Website - https://www.joinblend.com/Follow us:LinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/company/joinblend/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/join.blend/
In this episode of Fall Forward, we sat down with Kyall Mai, the Chief Innovation Officer at Esquire Bank.In this episode, we explore why real growth comes from failure, and the invaluable opportunity presented by picking yourself up after falling. Kyall’s outlines his journey of identity, and how understanding our parents, helps us understand ourselves.We discuss society’s definition of happiness can often lead us astray, and how you can still feel unfulfilled through shallow achievements. Kyall provides practical advice on how you can feel more fulfilled and lead a more meaningful life.We dive into the importance of true human connection - at work, in relationships, and in everyday life - and how shifting our perspective can change everything. As well as this, we uncover the power of saying “I don’t know” and how leading by example with vulnerability creates deeper, more authentic relationships.If you’ve ever felt stuck, like you’re checking all the right boxes but still missing something - this episode is for you. Let’s redefine success, embrace the falls, and seek true connection. Watch now!Listen to FF on: YouTube - https://youtu.be/MI9YDFMnHUkApple - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/fall-forward/id1759183835
Visit Blend: Website - https://www.joinblend.com/Follow us:LinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/company/joinblend/Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/join.blend/
In this episode of Fall Forward, we spoke with Dr. Roger Miles, behaviour investigator, research innovator, author and keynote speaker. We dive into the world of leadership and risk-taking with Roger Miles. He shares his insights on creating environments where failure is not feared but embraced, exploring the delicate balance between calculated risk and recklessness, and how leaders can foster a culture of innovation and growth. Roger emphasizes the importance of stepping out of our comfort zones and taking action, arguing that not taking action can often be more risky than calculated risk-taking. He provides valuable insight into the important of having open and honest conversations with frontline staff, leaders can gain valuable insights and empower their teams to take ownership of their work. We also discuss the impact of AI on the workplace and the need for critical thinking skills. Roger highlights the importance of human connection and the ability to think creatively and critically in an increasingly automated world. An episode full of insight and helpful tips from a seasoned risk expert! Take a watch.
Listen to FF on: YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0det-1a3XxlNgxdgFQ4nKw Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/fall-forward/id1759183835 Visit Blend: Website - https://www.joinblend.com/ Follow us: LinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/company/joinblend/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/join.blend/
In this episode, we delve into the world of AI and data with Kshitij Kumar (KK). KK is an expert in the field, with vast industry experience as a Chief Data Officer at Farfetch, Haleon and OneFootball.
We discuss the importance of not just listening, but truly being present in conversations. KK shares his insights on how to effectively leverage AI, from understanding its potential to mitigating risks. KK emphasizes that AI isn't a separate entity but rather an extension of your own data, and warns against short-term optimism and long-term pessimism, highlighting the immense transformative power of AI.
To harness this power, leaders must invest time in understanding the intricacies of data and AI. KK stresses the need to bridge the gap between technical experts and business leaders, ensuring that everyone is equipped to navigate the AI landscape.
Ultimately, the most exciting aspect of AI lies in its potential to elevate human experiences. KK believes that AI can empower us to focus on what truly matters: creativity, empathy, and human connection. However, to fully realize this potential, we must initiate open and honest conversations about AI's implications. As leaders, we must learn from our teams and foster a culture of innovation and collaboration.
In this latest episode of our podcast, we talk with Dr. Taryn Marie Stejskal. Taryn is a psychologist, author, and speaker who specializes in helping people overcome fear and live a more fulfilling life. In our conversation, Taryn shares her insights on what resilience is and how it can be developed as leaders and as humans. She also discusses the element of fear, and the importance of having the gumption to fight through it and do it anyway. Taryn embarks on some personal anecdotes about her childhood, and working within large organisations such as Nike and Cigna. She opens up about her resilience stories to demonstrate the importance of amplifying your humanity and ensuring that you're being relatable to your audience and encouraging vulnerability amongst your teams. We discuss the importance of emotional intelligence and how it can help us to be more resilient, and how acting like you have it all together can make it harder to connect with others. A must watch episode from the expert on resilience! Taryn's new book filled with inspiring and motivational stories from leaders and experts about resilience and life change is available for pre-order now! https://bit.ly/DrTarynMarieStejskal Listen to FF on: Spotify - https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/blend-fallforward YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0det-1a3XxlNgxdgFQ4nKw Visit Blend: Website - https://www.joinblend.com/ Follow us: LinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/company/joinblend/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/join.blend/
On today’s episode of Fall Forward, we spoke with Martin Gutmann, author of The Unseen Leader, Professor at HSLU and TED X Speaker.
In this episode, Martin guides us through his book, The Unseen Leader, and the importance of not dismissing these types of leaders, and their ability to mitigate risk before it escalates. He emphasises the necessity for situational awareness; as a strategy for one scenario, is rarely the same for another.
Martin highlights the importance of self-reflection, with leaders needing to be able to step back and reflect on the process leading up to their failures, despite the demanding schedules of managing large enterprise organizations.
The unseen leaders often fly under the radar but are commonly the ones that are meticulous and risk averse, take a listen on how Martin’s perspective on how we should be fostering a culture where these leaders are celebrated and valued equally.
On today’s episode of Fall Forward, we had a conversation with Jeanniey Walden, the CMO of Rite Aid.
In this episode, Jeanniey shares how her team navigated the challenges of marketing during Rite Aid's bankruptcy. Despite a tight or non-existent budget, she reveals the creative strategies they used to keep momentum going. Even though Rite Aid is out of bankruptcy, Jeanniey explains which elements of their marketing strategy they plan to continue using moving forward.
Jeanniey opens about her personal journey with failure and how she's learned to embrace it. She believes that failure is a part of leadership that's not spoken about enough, and it's time to change that conversation.
Jeanniey is a legend in her space, a must watch episode!
Join us for a thought-provoking conversation with leadership author and expert, Stephen Shedletzky. Discover how leadership attributes can be innate but require careful cultivation. We discuss the importance of feedback loops in fostering growth and understanding between leaders and their teams, the delicate balance between disagreeing and respecting others, and why feeling triggered by feedback can be a sign of truth. Stephen sheds light on the vulnerability that true leadership requires, emphasizing the need for psychological safety and the courage to face challenges head-on. Discover how diversity and experimentation are key to innovation, and why failure is a natural part of the process. Don't miss this insightful episode where we explore the human side of leadership and the importance of remaining authentic in a world of constant change.
On today’s episode of Fall Forward, we welcome the Head of e-Commerce for Europe at PepsiCo, Celso Shimabukuro.
Celso takes us on a journey through the AI revolution, discussing the monumental strides being made in CPG and the crucial role of people-centered leadership. We discover how he rallies his team behind ambitious goals, prioritizing people over profits, and fostering an environment where leaders ultimately serve their people.
Learn about the importance of stepping back, letting people excel, and embracing agility in the digital age. Celso emphasizes the significance of humility, ego calibration, and hunger for learning.
Don't miss this conversation with Celso as he sheds light on the future of AI in CPG and the essential role of people in driving success.
In this episode, we dive deep into the world of artificial intelligence, with AI expert and sitting member of the House of Lords, Lord Tim Clement-Jones.
From its transformative impact on the creative industry to the looming threat of job displacement, we explore the complex relationship between humans and AI. We'll discuss the critical role of digital literacy in an AI-driven world, the importance of bias detection in AI regulation, and the potential risks for younger generations. Tim shares insights on how to learn from AI-related mistakes and avoid overreliance on the powerful technology.
Tim is at the cutting edge of AI policy change and governmental regulation, join us on this episode as we navigate the challenging landscape of AI.
On today’s episode, we’re speaking with Jack Sharpe, the Deputy CIO of the MOD.
From working his way up as a marine, to heading defence security on a national scale; in this episode we navigate the complex world of AI, alongside the national implications and prioritizing human oversight in AI systems.
Jack shares his insights on the importance of moving forward through the learning of failures, instead of marking it as a destination, and how his experiences with imposter syndrome drove him to be more motivated to push past it and strive forward. We explore the changing role of leadership, and the urgent need for organizational adaptation in our rapidly evolving technology landscape; alongside the ethical side to national AI integration.
With discussions surrounding national security, threat of data bias and his favourite karaoke song, you don’t want to miss it.
On today’s episode, we’re speaking to Maxinne Abuyuan, the Chief Experience Design Officer at VML.
We explore Maxinne’s journey from copywriting to her role in driving excellence for one of the largest advertising brands in the world. Maxinne shares her insights into the art of storytelling in marketing, finding an organizational culture that celebrates individuality and fosters success, and the significance of diverse perspectives in the creative industry. Uncover the importance of diverse perspectives in the creative space whilst addressing diversity and stereotypes, and whether AI is a ‘friend or foe’ within the industry.
Join us for an insightful discussion that encourages creative thinking and innovation in digital design and beyond.
Join us for an exciting episode of Fall Forward with Neil Lawrence, the DeepMind Professor of Machine Learning at Cambridge University. Neil explores his journey through computer science and mechanical engineering, inspired by a childhood love of building Lego. He discusses his book Atomic Human, aiming to simplify AI literacy. The episode critiques organizational accountability and the transactional nature of leadership. It emphasizes the need for introspection, the role of culture in AI's rise, and the risk of attention bias in organizations prioritizing AI deployment over the core business goals. This conversation pushes the boundaries of our understanding, highlighting how AI transcends our human comprehension.
On today’s episode of Fall Forward, we sit down with pro-racer and Porsche Carrera Cup Winner, Angus Whiteside. Join us as we explore Angus’s journey from go-karting in Toronto to his triumphs in the Porsche Supercup. Discover the strategies he employs to achieve and maintain high performance, from controlling the controllables and shifting his mindset to training his B-game to ensure an unbeatable A-game. We'll delve into his mindfulness practices which help him stay present, focused, and driven by his purpose. Angus also shares how he deals with pressure and uses the fear of failure as a tool to leverage his success. Don't miss this insightful conversation with a champion racer dedicated to continuous improvement and high performance. Listen to FF on: YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC0det-1a3XxlNgxdgFQ4nKw Visit Blend: Website - https://www.joinblend.com/ Follow us: LinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/company/joinblend/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/join.blend/
In this episode of Fall Forward, we spoke to Carol Watson, Global Chief Inclusion Officer at BCW. We explore Carol's career journey from starting as a New York publisher to leading inclusion transformations for the world-leading PR agency in London. Carol speaks on her experiences of not being 'allowed' to fail, and how awareness of mental health aids in preventing organizational burnout. Dive into the importance of creating friction for organisational change, and how we need to approach rewarding risk and failure in the pursuit of innovation. Carol highlights the lessons learned from her career setbacks and the role in failure to where she is today. Listen to FF on: Spotify- https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/sh... Visit Blend: Website - https://www.joinblend.com/ Follow us: LinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/company/joinblend/ Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/join.blend/ #FallForward #DiversityEquityInclusion #LessonsLearned