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The Mind Takeaway Podcast
Peter & Mira
156 episodes
13 hours ago
The Mind Takeaway podcast empowers listeners to develop their leadership skills and cultivate a thriving workplace culture by sharing valuable insights on leadership, collaboration, and creativity. Mira and Peter often create episodes in interesting locations for their work, reflecting on the insights gained from coaching leaders, teams, and businesses. They also have hopeful and thought-provoking conversations with diverse guests to give listeners actionable advice and fresh perspectives on some the world most challenging and current topics.
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Business
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All content for The Mind Takeaway Podcast is the property of Peter & Mira and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.
The Mind Takeaway podcast empowers listeners to develop their leadership skills and cultivate a thriving workplace culture by sharing valuable insights on leadership, collaboration, and creativity. Mira and Peter often create episodes in interesting locations for their work, reflecting on the insights gained from coaching leaders, teams, and businesses. They also have hopeful and thought-provoking conversations with diverse guests to give listeners actionable advice and fresh perspectives on some the world most challenging and current topics.
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Business
Episodes (20/156)
The Mind Takeaway Podcast
The AI Dilemma: Can Machines Truly Coach You

In this episode of The Mind Takeaway Podcast, we explore the controversial topic of artificial intelligence and coaching. We share insights on its potential benefits and inherent limitations.

AI-driven coaching tools are often hyped for their ability to provide instant responses and information. However, these models used for coaching often hallucinate, where AI-generated content appears credible but lacks accuracy, and may not be safe to use for vulnerable people, especially young adults. Unlike human coaches who challenge clients and explore the emotional nuances, AI cannot truly empathise or connect on a personal level or spot when an intervention is required, for example, if someone has suicidal ideation.

We highlight the importance of trust, compassion, and the ability to hold space for uncomfortable discussions. We reflect on our experiences with clients, emphasising how genuine human connection fosters deeper insights and encourages growth in ways that AI cannot replicate.

Key Takeaways

  • The limitations of AI in providing genuine coaching and emotional support are significant.
  • The importance of being challenged by a human coach to foster growth and insight.
  • Understanding the role of trust and compassion in effective coaching relationships.
  • The significance of human connection in navigating uncomfortable topics.


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2 weeks ago
12 minutes 58 seconds

The Mind Takeaway Podcast
Beyond Certainty: Preparing for an Unpredictable Future

In this episode of The Mind Takeaway Podcast, we join you from the vibrant city of Zagreb, where we delve into the complexities of navigating unpredictable futures. Drawing inspiration from our previous discussion with Margaret Heffernan, we explore the common anxieties our clients face regarding uncertainty and change.


We discuss the importance of unlearning preconceived notions and the limitations of past experiences that often cloud our vision for the future. Instead of succumbing to stress and the need for certainty, we advocate for a mindset shift that embraces curiosity and exploration of potential opportunities. By fostering a culture of 'what ifs', we can prepare ourselves for the unknown and create pathways for innovation and growth.


Throughout the episode, we emphasise the value of documenting our thoughts and ideas, encouraging listeners to map out their visions and explore possibilities beyond their immediate perceptions. We also introduce the concept of 'pre-mortem' analysis, a strategy that confronts fears and obstacles head-on, enabling proactive planning and resilience in the face of uncertainty.


We share personal anecdotes and insights on how collaboration and open dialogue with peers can alleviate fears surrounding the future. This episode serves as a reminder that while the future may be unpredictable, our approach to it can be shaped by curiosity and preparation.


Key Takeaways

- The significance of unlearning past limitations to embrace future opportunities.

- Shifting from a mindset of fear to one of curiosity regarding the unknown.

- The benefits of documenting thoughts and exploring possibilities through mind mapping.

- Understanding the pre-mortem analysis as a tool for proactive planning.

- The power of collaboration and dialogue in alleviating fears about the future.

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1 month ago
12 minutes 11 seconds

The Mind Takeaway Podcast
Mastering Negotiation: The Art of Listening and Collaboration

In this episode of The Mind Takeaway Podcast, we join you from the Omanovac Mountain Lodge in Croatia, where we explore the art of negotiation. As we walk through the forest, we reflect on our recent experiences helping clients enhance their negotiation skills, challenging the notion that negotiation is an exclusive domain reserved for the skilled few.

We discuss the power of listening and understanding the motivations behind others' desires, emphasising that effective negotiation is less about winning an argument and more about fostering collaboration. By shifting our focus from ego-driven tactics to genuine dialogue, we can uncover common ground and work towards mutually beneficial outcomes.

Our conversation highlights the importance of intention in negotiation. When parties approach discussions with a positive mindset, they are more likely to find creative solutions that incorporate diverse perspectives. We draw upon the inspiring example of Daryl Davis, who exemplifies the value of curiosity and understanding in overcoming deep-seated divisions.

As we explore the barriers that can hinder effective negotiation, we encourage you to consider your own willingness to change and adapt. By fostering an environment of openness and vulnerability, negotiators can engage in meaningful conversations that lead to productive outcomes. This episode serves as a reminder that successful negotiation lies in our ability to listen, understand, and collaborate.

Key Takeaways

- The importance of listening and understanding in negotiation.

- Shifting from ego-driven tactics to collaborative dialogue.

- How intention influences negotiation outcomes.

- The role of curiosity in overcoming divisions.

- Identifying and addressing barriers to effective negotiation.

- The significance of openness and willingness to change.

- Finding common ground to achieve mutually beneficial results.

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2 months ago
11 minutes 54 seconds

The Mind Takeaway Podcast
How to Increase Your Impact as a Leader

Here's an episode we recently recorded in Dubai where we reflect on our recent experiences delivering leadership development programmes and 1:2:1 coaching.

Our discussion is sparked by a thought-provoking question from one of our clients regarding the transformative power of coaching sessions compared to self-reflection.

We explore the significance of human connection in leadership, emphasising the necessity for leaders to create a space of collaboration and open dialogue. By listening and prioritising time with their teams, leaders can break down barriers that often hinder genuine connection. We discuss the common pitfalls of busyness and the importance of being present, as well as how this presence can foster trust and psychological safety within teams.

We also emphasise the importance of slowing down, reflecting, and creating space for personal growth. We encourage leaders to embrace the journey of transformation, not only for themselves but for those they lead, recognising that everyone has the capacity for change. This episode serves as a reminder that impactful leadership is rooted in connection, collaboration, and a willingness to listen and learn.

Takeaways

  • The significance of human connection in leadership.
  • Overcoming barriers to effective communication.
  • The impact of busyness on leadership effectiveness.
  • Creating space for reflection and insights.
  • The importance of collaboration across teams.
  • How to foster psychological safety within teams.
  • The role of coaching in personal transformation.
  • The power of slowing down to enhance leadership impact.
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4 months ago
22 minutes 20 seconds

The Mind Takeaway Podcast
Embracing Uncertainty: How to Lead in a Complex World with Margaret Heffernan

In this episode of The Mind Takeaway Podcast, we explore the topic of uncertainty with the remarkable Margaret Heffernan, a renowned entrepreneur, author, and professor at the University of Bath. With her extensive experience in mentoring senior executives and her acclaimed books, including "Willful Blindness" and "Embracing Uncertainty," Margaret shares her insights on the importance of embracing uncertainty in the business world.

We discuss the often overlooked connection between creativity and uncertainty, as Margaret highlights how traditional business mindsets can stifle innovation and adaptability. We discuss the challenges leaders face in fostering an environment that values creative thinking and the importance of allowing space for exploration and reflection.

Our conversation also explores the impact of technology, particularly AI, on our cognitive abilities and the potential risks associated with outsourcing our thinking processes. Margaret emphasises the need for leaders to cultivate a culture of openness and to encourage their teams to voice ideas without fear of judgment. This episode is a call to action for leaders to embrace uncertainty, foster creativity, and ultimately drive meaningful change in their organisations.

Timestamps:

03:44 I can see the value in this, but I am not creative.

04:36 That creativity is a fundamental component of leadership, and we need it now more than ever.

08:12 There may well be a mutually assured stalemate where young people don't think their employers want creative thinking.

10:54 Overall, many businesses still operate under a nineteenth-century management mindset.

13:35 There has been no genuine enquiry into what we have learned during the pandemic, where we need to be now, and how we do that best.

19:56 If we outsource work to a machine, we lose our capacity to do it ourselves in the future.

29:01 Our brains cannot multitask, and we are only capable of focusing on one thing at a time.

37:06 Leaders need to be comfortable not knowing what will happen in the future.

41:37 Often, leaders make their people fail by insisting on control.

48:12 Margaret reflects on the challenges of writing her books and how they could not have been resolved with the use of AI.

48:37 If everything in our lives was a certainty, what would be the point of living?

References

Margaret Heffernan

https://www.margaretheffernan.com

Willful Blindness

https://www.margaretheffernan.com/books/willful-blindness

Embracing Uncertainty

https://www.margaretheffernan.com/books/embracing-uncertainty

TED Talks

https://www.ted.com/speakers/margaret_heffernan

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4 months ago
50 minutes 39 seconds

The Mind Takeaway Podcast
Make Better Decisions: Insights on Productivity, Energy and Time Management

In this episode of The Mind Takeaway Podcast, we explore the vital concepts of energy management and time management, revisiting insights that have evolved since our last episode about this in 2021. Sitting by the Spree River in Berlin, we reflect on how managing our energy levels can significantly improve our productivity and overall well-being.

We share some personal anecdotes and observations from our experiences coaching clients, emphasising the importance of entering focused work periods with sufficient energy. Through this exploration, we highlight the detrimental effects of low energy on decision-making, communication, and emotional regulation. We discuss how understanding our energy patterns can enhance team collaboration and creativity, ultimately leading to better outcomes.

Our conversation also touches on the neuroscience behind energy management, referencing research from Dr. Lisa Feldman Barrett. We encourage you to consider your energy levels and identify habits that may deplete your vitality and capacity to work effectively. You can cultivate a more sustainable and productive lifestyle by increasing your self-awareness and making conscious adjustments as you learn work gives and takes your energy during the week.

Time Stamps

01:09 Learning how to manage your energy throughout the week can have a huge impact on your work and life.

14:16 What can you stop doing to balance your energy better?

15:28 How do we behave when our energy is very low?

17:34 What activities do I spend too much time on?

23:38 Once you have good energy management awareness, you will be more productive.

References
Energy vs Time Management  Exercise Download

Dr. Lisa Feldman Barrett - Seven and a Half Lessons about the Brain



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6 months ago
25 minutes 10 seconds

The Mind Takeaway Podcast
From Disconnection to Connection: Emotional Regulation for High-Performance Teams

In this episode of The Mind Takeaway Podcast, we explore the crucial topic of emotional regulation and its profound impact on individual and team dynamics. Our conversation is rooted in insights from a recent workshop on emotional regulation.


We explore how our ability to regulate our emotions shapes our behaviours and influences our interactions as leaders, coaches, and team members. Drawing from personal experiences, we discuss common pitfalls in emotional regulation, such as retreating inward or reacting outwardly, and how these responses can hinder effective communication, connection, and team performance.

Takeaways

  • The importance of self-awareness in emotional regulation
  • Common emotional responses and their impact on team dynamics
  • The role of listening in supporting emotional clarity
  • Strategies for preparing for high-pressure interactions
  • How compassion and curiosity can create a supportive environment
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6 months ago
12 minutes 23 seconds

The Mind Takeaway Podcast
How to Use Reflection as a Learning Tool

Ever felt overwhelmed by challenges?

Learn to harness your experiences, even the tough ones, to fuel personal growth and improve your leadership skills.


Takeaways

  • The significance of reflection in leadership
  • Finding time for reflection in a busy schedule
  • The process of transferring learning from experiences
  • Creating a habit of reflection
  • The impact of experiential learning on personal growth
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7 months ago
2 minutes 30 seconds

The Mind Takeaway Podcast
Trust vs Control: Insights for Effective Leadership

In this episode of The Mind Takeaway Podcast, we find ourselves in the beautiful coastal town of Denia, Spain, on our final day before returning to Berlin. Today, we explore the complex relationship between trust and control, drawing from our recent experiences and conversations with clients that have highlighted the nuances of these concepts.

We begin by unpacking the true essence of trust and how it can often be misinterpreted. Reflecting on a past project, we share a moment when a simple expression of trust transformed into an unexpected pressure to perform perfectly. This leads us to explore the importance of trusting oneself and being present, particularly when facing fears and challenges.

As we transition into leadership, we discuss how trust is pivotal in fostering an environment where team members can thrive. We emphasise the need for clarity in communication and the significance of understanding what trust means to each individual within a team. It’s essential to create a space where mistakes are viewed as opportunities for growth rather than failures to be controlled.

Our discussion highlights the natural ebb and flow between trust and control. When fear takes hold, control often replaces trust, leading to a lack of clarity. Conversely, when we foster trust, we create a culture of openness and creativity. Inviting leaders to reflect on their understanding of trust encourages a deeper connection with their teams and a more supportive approach to leadership.

Timestamps:

00:51 Defining trust and its misconceptions

02:04 The importance of being present and trusting oneself

04:00 Applying trust in leadership

05:55 The relationship between trust and control

08:49 How can you facilitate team discussions on trust

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7 months ago
10 minutes 19 seconds

The Mind Takeaway Podcast
The Hidden Costs of People Pleasing in Leaderdship

In this episode , we join you from the picturesque Castel de Denia, where the sounds of the coast provide a vibrant backdrop to our discussion. Today, we tackle the challeging issue of people pleasing and its counterproductive effects on personal and team growth. We explore why individuals often feel compelled to please others, even at the expense of their own values and the team's well-being.


As we explore this topic, we highlight the common tendency among leaders to avoid uncomfortable conversations in an effort to maintain harmony. We discuss how this behaviour can lead to a toxic atmosphere, stifling both individual and team development. By reframing the narrative around feedback and challenging behaviour, we encourage listeners to embrace discomfort as a pathway to growth.


Throughout our conversation, we emphasise the importance of intentionality and curiosity when addressing difficult issues. By asking open-ended questions and approaching discussions with a positive mindset, leaders can foster an environment where team members feel safe to reflect on their actions and behaviours. We also touch on the implications of people pleasing, including the potential for escalating demands and the detrimental effects on team dynamics.

This episode serves as a valuable reminder that true leadership involves challenging others to grow, rather than simply seeking to maintain comfort. Join us as we unpack the nuances of people-pleasing and offer strategies for fostering a more authentic and constructive approach to leadership.


Timestamps:

02:30 The impact of avoiding uncomfortable conversations

05:12 The role of intentionality in feedback

08:45 Fostering curiosity in challenging discussions

11:20 The implications of people pleasing on team dynamics

14:00 Strategies for addressing challenging behaviours

16:30 The importance of personal growth in leadership

19:00 Closing thoughts and resources for further exploration

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7 months ago
12 minutes 54 seconds

The Mind Takeaway Podcast
Leading with Integrity: The Backbone of Effective Leadership

In this episode of The Mind Takeaway Podcast, we find ourselves in the serene surroundings of Jardin le Albado, a beautiful Mediterranean garden near Alicante, Spain. As we stroll through this peaceful setting, we deeply discuss the crucial role of integrity in leadership. We explore how integrity is a moral compass, guiding leaders in decision-making and team interactions.

We explore the importance of addressing conflicts and differences of opinion head-on, emphasising that authentic leadership requires the courage to engage in uncomfortable conversations rather than avoiding them. By leaning into these discussions, leaders can foster a culture of psychological safety and collaboration within their teams.

Throughout our dialogue, we highlight that integrity also involves acknowledging mistakes and being open to feedback. We share personal anecdotes illustrating how humility and transparency can lead to growth and stronger relationships with team members. The episode delves into the balance between standing firm in one's values and knowing when to exercise discretion in communication.

As we unpack the complexities of integrity, we also touch on the potential consequences of failing to act on one's moral compass, including burnout and stress. This episode is a powerful reminder that integrity is not just about being right; it's about creating a sustainable and trustworthy environment for oneself and others.

Timestamps:

01:16 Defining integrity in leadership

02:12 The importance of addressing conflicts head-on

04:54 The impact of avoiding difficult conversations

07:57 Acknowledging mistakes and learning from them

10:17 Balancing integrity with effective communication

11:08 The consequences of ignoring one's moral compass

12:47 Building trust through integrity


References

Jardín de l'Albarda



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8 months ago
14 minutes 48 seconds

The Mind Takeaway Podcast
Climate Justice and the University: Shaping a Hopeful Future for All with Jennie C. Stephens

In this thought-provoking episode of The Mind Takeaway Podcast, we welcome back Jennie C. Stevens, a climate justice scholar and activist, as we delve into her latest book, "Climate Justice Universities". Jennie shares her journey from academia in the United States to her new role in Ireland, highlighting the urgent need for transformative change in higher education to address the climate crisis. Together, we explore the concept of climate justice universities, envisioning a future where academic institutions serve as powerful agents for systemic change rather than perpetuating the status quo.

Throughout our conversation, Jennie discusses the importance of radical acts of resistance within academia, the need for unlearning outdated knowledge frameworks, and the critical role of emotional and relational knowledge in leadership. We also touch on the challenges posed by corporate interests in higher education, the implications of exnovation, and the necessity of integrating diverse perspectives, including feminist and indigenous viewpoints, into our understanding of climate justice.

As we reflect on the interconnectedness of social, economic, and environmental issues, Jennie emphasises the importance of collective action and the potential for hope in the face of climate anxiety. This episode is a call to rethink our approach to education and activism, encouraging listeners to engage with these pressing issues and consider the transformative possibilities that lie ahead.

Timestamps:

01:05 Jenny's transition from the USA to Ireland and her motivations

03:30 The concept of climate justice universities and its significance

06:45 Radical acts of resistance in higher education

09:15 The importance of emotional and relational knowledge in leadership

12:50 The impact of corporate interests on academic institutions

15:30 Understanding exnovation and its relevance to climate action

18:40 The need for unlearning outdated knowledge frameworks

21:15 Feminism and its role in reshaping climate justice discourse

24:00 The significance of integrating diverse perspectives in academia

27:30 Collective Action and the Climate Justice Universities Union

30:00 Closing thoughts on hope and the future of climate justice

References

Jennie C. Stevens Website

Books

Climate Justice and the University

Diversifying Power

Maynooth University



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9 months ago
53 minutes 33 seconds

The Mind Takeaway Podcast
Creativity Unleashed: Lessons from Ivana's Artistic Journey

We introduce you to Ivana, a Serbian artist and mother of three whose journey through self-care and artistic expression has been nothing short of transformative. With her family's support and a pivotal artist retreat in Berlin, Ivana navigated the challenges of guilt and self-doubt to emerge as a celebrated artist.

Timestamps

00:37 We share our first client story of success, creativity, resilience, curiosity and leadership

01:33 Ivanas story from stressed-out mother of three and caregiver to successful artist

02:01 How Ivana started painting as a form of self-care and improve her wellbeing

03:11 An artist retreat was a big step forward in Ivana's development as a professional artist

03:59 How can strong feelings of pressure and guilt stop us from making change and moving forward

05:46 One of the first steps in personal transformation is changing how we see ourselves - changing that idea from "I'm a mother and caregiver to I'm an artist".

06:44 Why is it that when we take time for ourselves and what nourishes us, we become better humans and people around us benefit too

08:50 How it is never too late to start something that you want, like or are passionate about

10:17 How the practice of listening increases your curiosity and leads to creativity

12:31 A person can not be a leader if they are not listening and curious about themselves, others, and the world around them.

13:46 Ivana is now a prolific artist; her art is showcased in galleries, and she recently had her first solo exhibition.

14:37 Here are some questions you can ask yourself to help you reignite your passion or start something you have always wanted to.

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9 months ago
17 minutes 15 seconds

The Mind Takeaway Podcast
Twelve Insights for Impact in Leadership

In this episode of The Mind Takeaway Podcast, we explore the second half of our leadership takeaways from five years of podcasting and working with leaders, teams, and executives. Building on the first six insights shared in the previous episode, we now explore the next six takeaways that have significantly impacted our approach and can transform your leadership style.

Timestamps:

01:25 The seventh takeaway is about giving and receiving feedback

03:00 We circle back to the cultural fit part of leadership

04:48 You need to know your team well and what they are good at to delegate effectively.

07:20 Number nine is the importance of reflection and leaving yourself enough room for creativity

12:53 Being action-orientated might not always be a good fit as a leader

15:48 Number 11 is around decision-making for leaders

17:18 Being open to learning comes with lots of pressure and stress when making decisions

20:07 Number 12 is about bravery and vulnerability going hand in hand

24:37 The importance of emotional regulation in leadership.

References

The first six Leadership Insights

Book: Elastic by Leonard Mlodinow

Book: Emotional by Leonard Mlodinow

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11 months ago
27 minutes 55 seconds

The Mind Takeaway Podcast
Overwhelm, Busyness and Distractions: The Biggest Challenges Facing Leaders Today

In this episode of The Mind Takeaway Podcast, we return to Berlin to explore two insightful articles we contributed to for Forbes, addressing the significant challenges leaders face today. As experienced international executive coaches, we were among six coaches asked by @Martin Gutman to share our insights. Martin, a former guest on our podcast, writes about leadership, technology, and history.

The first article, "The Biggest Challenge Facing Leaders Today," highlights the pervasive issue of busyness without downtime, which stifles creativity and innovation, leading to burnout and a lack of focus. We discuss the impact of digital distractions and the mistaken belief that busyness equates to productivity, often leaving leaders feeling unaccomplished despite a hectic schedule.

The second article, "An Incomplete Guide for Leaders to Feel Less Overwhelmed," explores practical solutions for leaders to prioritise effectively, slow down, and embrace Reflection as part of their work. We emphasise the importance of self-care, empathy, and creating an environment built on core values to counteract the overwhelm and enhance decision-making.

This episode is a call to action for leaders to rethink their approach, embrace change, and connect with their emotions to make better decisions. We invite you to explore these articles, reflect on your leadership journey, and consider the small changes that can lead to significant improvements.

Timestamps

02:23 What is the biggest challenge facing leaders today

03:43 What causes overwhelm and a lack of focus for leaders

04:26 Why is the mistaken belief that busyness equals productivity so common among leaders

05:19 To keep up with the rapid growth and leaps in technology, leadership and the role of the leader need to change.

07:12 What can leaders do to avoid business traps

08:15 Consider Reflection and self-care as part of the work, not a pastime activity.

13:00 How can we implement changes that will help us transform leadership for the future

15:46 We connect with our intuition by connecting with our emotions, and for that, we need reflection time

References

The Biggest Challenge Facing Leaders Today, According To Coaches

An Incomplete Guide For Leaders To Feel Less Overwhelmed

Are we celebrating the wrong leaders?

The Unseen Leader with Martin Gutmann

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11 months ago
17 minutes 47 seconds

The Mind Takeaway Podcast
Leadership Redefined: Six Insights for Impact

In this episode of The Mind Takeaway podcast, we share invaluable leadership insights and takeaways from the last five years.

We share six insights that have significantly impacted our work with leaders and can transform your leadership approach. These insights emphasise the importance of aligning with a wider purpose, fostering human connection, and being open to change. We discuss how effective Leadership is not about individual achievements but about cultivating trust and psychological safety within teams.

These insights are not just theoretical; we share some real-world applications and successes, such as helping to transform one of Europe's most successful Esports teams into a world championship contender through deep human connection, building trust, and improving communication, which allowed the team to collaborate and compete at the top level.

We invite you to listen, reflect, and implement these takeaways to have more impact on your leadership journey.

Timnestamps

01:23 We reflect on five years of the Mind Takeaway podcast with six Leadership takeaways

03:21 Leadership isn't about you as a leader; it's about the wider purpose and the people around you.

05:25 Stepping into a leadership role comes with more pressure and more responsibility.

06:50 Human connection is something that can dictate your impact and results.

12:09 Your willingness to be wrong, be vulnerable in front of your team and learning from your mistakes.

14:10 How you deal with setbacks and changes can make all the difference.

16:02 Learning to manage your energy is vital in avoiding burnout and getting things done.

17:00 Being able to communicate effectively as a leader is essential, but listening to understand your audience is where you can have real impact.

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12 months ago
22 minutes 14 seconds

The Mind Takeaway Podcast
From CIA Exposé to Global Peace Maker with John Marks

In this episode of The Mind Takeaway Podcast, we speak with John Marks, a renowned peacebuilder, social entrepreneur, and former US diplomat. With a decades-long career, John shares his transformative journey from exposing abuses within the CIA to becoming a global peacemaker. He discusses the challenges and triumphs of scaling a non-profit organisation, Search for Common Ground, from a small team to 600 staff across 35 countries and the vital role of collaboration and adaptability in conflict resolution.

We explore the complexities of social entrepreneurship, exploring the hurdles of securing long-term funding and the internal bureaucratic challenges growing organisations face. John provides insights into his unique conflict resolution approach, emphasising media engagement and societal-level impact, and shares lessons from his extensive experience mentoring emerging social entrepreneurs.

The conversation also touches on the impact of stress and burnout in the non-profit sector, with John offering a unique perspective on managing these challenges through the principles of Aikido. We also explore his work in media production, including creating impactful programming such as "Under the Same Sun," a film promoting peace between Israelis and Palestinians.

This conversation highlights the power of optimism, collaboration, and the continuous search for common ground in a world often marked by division and conflict.

00:00 John Marks' life work has been all about transforming how countries deal with conflict

03:40 How did you grow your company from zero to 600 staff in 35 countries?

05:09 What's your secret to growing a business together and being married for 25 years?

08:28 What are the biggest challenges in social entrepreneurship?

13:09 Why did you write your new book, From Vision to Action, Remaking the World through Social Entrepreneurship?

21:34 What would you say to people who want to start an NGO today?

24:12 Can you tell us about your Mockumentary about two business owners, one Israeli and one Palestinian?

30:30 How did you get the US and Soviet Union to cooperate on preventing terrorism?

40:54 Every conflict can be an opportunity to learn from and grow from

42:08 Why is burnout so common in social entrepreneurship, and how do you prevent it?


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1 year ago
54 minutes 33 seconds

The Mind Takeaway Podcast
Collaboration for Impact Part 2: Scaling Collaboration

In this episode of The Mind Takeaway podcast, we bring you part two of our special recordings from TXL Berlin, situated on the site of the former Tegel Airport. As we reminisce about our travels through Tegel Airport, now the site of one of the biggest European urban development projects, we explore scaling collaboration within groups, teams, communities, and organisations.

We explore the challenges and opportunities of scaling collaboration, especially in the context of sustainability and impact-driven initiatives. We discuss the importance of time, structure, and discipline in facilitating effective collaboration at scale, respecting each other's time, maintaining a flexible agenda, and the critical role of a facilitator in guiding the whole process.

We also discuss the significance of asking for help and leveraging diverse skill sets within a community to achieve common goals. The conversation extends to the global stage, examining the dynamics of collaboration between countries and the need for healing and letting go of egos to move forward sustainably.


Timestamps

01:15 Reflecting on the nostalgia of Tegel Airport and its transformation

03:40 The importance of time and reflection in scaling collaboration

06:28 The role of structure and discipline in effective collaboration

08:45 Respecting each other's capacity and time in community projects

12:30 The necessity of asking for help and leveraging diverse skill sets

15:20 Healing and letting go of egos for sustainable collaboration

18:10 The impact of human connection and face-to-face meetings


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1 year ago
18 minutes 10 seconds

The Mind Takeaway Podcast
AI Ethics with Camila Lombana-Diaz

In this episode of The Mind Takeaway podcast, we explore the fascinating and complex world of AI ethics with Camila, an AI ethics research expert at SAP. We explore the development of AI ethics over the past decade and its crucial role in ensuring that AI technologies are designed and used responsibly and ethically. Camila sheds light on the significant gaps in AI development, the ethical concerns surrounding AI, and the importance of safeguarding human rights and societal values amidst rapid technological advancements.

We discuss the challenges posed by biased and incomplete data, the Western-centric nature of current AI technologies, and the implications of AI-generated data. Camilla emphasises the need for a balanced approach to AI development, integrating ethical principles into the engineering cycle and fostering collaboration among diverse stakeholders, including policymakers, legal experts, and designers.

We also touch on the EU AI Act, its impact on consumer and business AI technologies, and the importance of transparency, explainability, and quality testing in AI systems. The conversation highlights the necessity of slowing down and reflecting on the broader implications of AI, including environmental considerations and the right to disconnect.

•Disclosure: Camila's options are her own and not of her company.

Timestamps

01:20 Introduction to Camilla and her role at SAP

03:45 The development and importance of AI ethics

08:10 Ethical concerns in AI: Bias, discrimination, and societal impact

12:35 The Western-centric nature of AI technologies

16:50 The implications of AI-generated data and synthetic data

21:15 The EU AI Act and its impact on AI deployment

26:40 Balancing innovation with ethical considerations

31:05 The role of collaboration in achieving responsible AI

35:20 Environmental considerations and the right to disconnect

40:10 The importance of integrating human rights into AI development

45:00 Reflecting on the broader implications of AI and technology

Resources Mentioned

SAP Responsible AI

Why SAP’s Updated AI Ethics Policy Is Based on the Human Rights-Oriented UNESCO Recommendation

EU AI Act

Which Humans?

Saint George's Bookshop, Berlin

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1 year ago
50 minutes 58 seconds

The Mind Takeaway Podcast
Collaboration for Impact Part 1

In the first of a series of special episodes, we join you from Berin TXL, which is 495 hectares on the site of the former Tigel airport. It is now being transformed into one of Europe's biggest urban development projects, a new district of the city that will focus on sustainability and urban technologies; Urban Tech Republic - their research and industrial park, is already open. It is a collaborative infrastructure with laboratories, offices, a production area, and a free art, culture, and activism space. GUT, a world-class events space, is now in the former air freight hall, and a nightclub called Turbulence has been up and running since July. In the future, homes will be made in this new district, as well as a university campus.

We discuss the importance of understanding our roles in collaboration, the need for aligned purposes, and the significance of clarity and focus. We also explore how fear and ego hinder effective collaboration and why trust, transparency, and communication are crucial for successful teamwork. Finally, we share personal experiences and insights on how to navigate the challenges of collaboration, from individual efforts to larger group dynamics.

Whether you're part of a small team or looking to foster collaboration on a grander scale, this episode offers valuable perspectives on achieving impactful results through collective efforts. Keep an eye out for part two, where we will explore collaboration at scale, taking inspiration from the innovative developments at TXL Berlin.

Timestamps

01:15 Introduction to TXL Berlin and its focus on sustainability and urban technologies

03:40 The importance of collaboration for learning, growth, and innovation

06:28 Understanding our roles in collaboration and the need for aligned purposes

08:45 The impact of fear and ego on collaboration

12:30 Building trust, transparency, and effective communication within teams

15:20 The challenges of maintaining focus and commitment in collaborative efforts

18:10 Personal experiences of collaboration and overcoming obstacles

20:35 The importance of reflection and feedback in improving collaboration

22:50 Preview of part two: Exploring collaboration at scale

Berlin TXL

https://berlintxl.de/en/

Urban Tech Republic

[https://urbantechrepublic.de/en/

GICA

https://gica.community/

Turbulence Nightclub

[https://www.turbulenceclub.de/

The Century of the Self (documentary)

[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eJ3RzGoQC4s]



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1 year ago
25 minutes

The Mind Takeaway Podcast
The Mind Takeaway podcast empowers listeners to develop their leadership skills and cultivate a thriving workplace culture by sharing valuable insights on leadership, collaboration, and creativity. Mira and Peter often create episodes in interesting locations for their work, reflecting on the insights gained from coaching leaders, teams, and businesses. They also have hopeful and thought-provoking conversations with diverse guests to give listeners actionable advice and fresh perspectives on some the world most challenging and current topics.