The Legendary Leaders Podcast Cathleen O'Sullivan – Leadership Consultant, Thinking Partner and Podcast

In today’s episode I interview the remarkable Stephanie Brown, a trailblazer in the creative marketing and tech industries, and the brains behind Creative Career Level Up. With roles that include a tenure at Nike and Apple, Stephanie brings a wealth of experience to the table.
We explore the power of self-reflection, the art of strategic planning, and the entrepreneurial mindset necessary to catapult your career to the next level. Stephanie shares her personal story of her own transitions in her career, both the highs and the lows. Culminating in her development of an innovative career coaching programme designed to elevate professionals in the marketing, branding, creative, and tech sectors.
We'll uncover how Stephanie turned the challenge of being let go from a job into a remarkable opportunity for growth and self-discovery, resulting in not only a successful coaching business but also a property portfolio and a book.
We also discuss why it's important not to settle for less in our professional lives, finding joy in our work, and break free from the constraints that hold us back. 
Whether you're feeling stuck in a rut or on the brink of your next big leap, this episode is full of actionable advice to help you find your path.
 
 
Episode Timeline: 
 
06:50 Finding income streams to work in London.
13:11 Admiration for flexibility in work-life balance.
26:36 Appreciating job opportunities and the decision-making process.
31:43 Podcasts connect entrepreneurs, expand networks, and foster relationships.
37:43 Seeking advice, networking, and planning a new path.
45:45 Overcoming job boredom and boosting confidence at work.
48:20 Embrace growth, use evidence to reframe narratives.
54:00 Finding purpose in work beyond grand gestures.
1:01:53 Programme framework emphasises self-awareness and exploration.
1:08:11 Reflect on time, prioritise, challenge your narrative.




Key Takeaways: 
Stephanie Brown's experience showcases the importance of self-reflection and having a strategic plan when advancing one's career. The three-stage program (reflect, refine, result) she discusses serves as a guideline for individuals to discover their true career desires, understand the industry landscape, and implement strategies for securing positions that align with their personal and professional goals.
The notion of changing one’s mindset from passive job seeker to proactive career architect is a focal point in the conversation, as exemplified by Steph Brown's entrepreneurial approach to job hunting and career development. Her success in securing a role at Apple and eventually starting her own coaching business underscores the value of networking, self-belief, and taking an entrepreneurial approach to crafting one's career path.
Both Stephanie and Cathleen emphasise the significance of adaptability and learning from personal experiences, whether it is transitioning from corporate life to entrepreneurship, dealing with job loss, or reshaping career objectives. Stephanie’s journey, from working at renowned companies like Nike and Apple to leveraging her experiences to write a book and create a coaching program, highlights how personal and professional growth intertwines with the ability to adapt and the pursuit of a fulfilling and flexible lifestyle.
 
ABOUT Stephanie Brown
 
Steph Brown is a seasoned professional with a rich 15-year career in Marketing, Creative, and Tech industries. With an impressive 13-year tenure in senior positions at renowned companies like Nike and Apple. In 2019 she established Creative Career Level Up, a pioneering coaching and training initiative. This flagship programme is meticulously designed to empower individuals within the Marketing, Creative, and Tech sectors, equipping them with the tools and knowledge needed to elevate their careers to new heights. Steph is also an Angel Investor for early-stage startups and property investor across the UK.



Connect with St

Cathleen has a fascinating conversation with Mosongo Moukwa, an expert in leadership and organisational change. With over 30 years of experience, Mosongo shares insights from his early days of management to his current prowess as a business coach and president of Hathaway Advanced Materials. This episode unpacks innovation beyond the traditional realms, advocating for a cohesive approach across all organisational sectors. Mosongo and Cathleen discuss the vitality of curiosity and the psychological safety necessary for fostering a culture of innovation. Mosongo's leadership journey marked by self-discovery, continuous learning, and building significant human connections shows what is needed to be an effective leader. He also emphasises the importance of nurturing potential within teams and leaving a lasting impact on individuals' lives.
 
Episode Timeline: 
 
00:01 Mosongo’s book 'Be a Leader of Significance' emphasises daily impactful leadership moments.
09:41 Weekly challenges promoted people-focused management development.
13:25 Striving for positive impact through coaching and mentoring.
17:19 Discuss memories, values, competencies, and influential books.
25:28 Questioning sense of authenticity and conformity.
28:28 Discussion on safety and risk in material production.
32:49 Growth mindset fuels resilience through new challenges.
38:13 Reflection on work experience leads to writing his book.
45:02 Employees want to be valued with gestures.
51:25 Significant leadership focuses on heart and mind.
54:02 Recommendation for past employees, maintaining human connections.
01:02:51 Children have specific needs, learn through open-ended questions.
01:05:32 Innovation in plastic coating moves from the lab.
01:11:53 Encouraging feedback, share your desired life legacy.




Key Takeaways: 
Innovation Is a Behaviour: Expand the boundaries of innovation beyond R&D and marketing. It is a collaborative effort driven by curiosity and a culture of psychological safety across the organisation.
Growth Through Support: The alignment of support and challenge is crucial in leadership. An effective leader creates lasting emotional connections, impacting both the hearts and minds of team members.
Leading with Authenticity: Leadership is not just a position, it's a journey. Embrace your unique experiences and lead with whole-person integrity. Authenticity builds trust and encourages others to follow in their truth.



ABOUT  Mosongo Moukwa
Mosongo Moukwa is a seasoned executive and consultant who has dedicated his career to helping companies thrive by commercializing new technologies, diversifying their product offerings, and entering new markets.
Across thirty-plus years in leadership, Mosongo has applied his unique talent for identifying leadership gaps and developing the talent and culture necessary for success. He helps solve important innovation challenges that hold organizations back by unleashing the collective creativity of their people. This results in increased profitability and growth expansion.
Mosongo has held leadership positions in R & D and operations at some of the world’s most respected brands, including vice president, global technology at SC Johnson; vice president, global technology at Reichhold; vice president, technology at Asian Paints; director of technology at Avient (formerly Poly- One); and chief, global R & D at PCBL (formerly Phillips Carbon Black Ltd.). He is currently President at Hathaway Advanced Materials.
Mosongo holds a PhD from Université de Sherbrooke, Québec, Canada; a postdoctoral fellow at Northwestern University, Illinois; and an MBA from Case Western Reserve University, Ohio, US. He has been a keynote speaker at numerous international technical conferences and holds several patents. Be a Leader of Significance is his new book.
 
Connect with Mosongo:
Book: https://a.co/d/c3HZFE3
 
Social Media Links:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moson

Your host Cathleen engages in an impactful dialogue with the renowned leadership psychologist and author, Markus van Alphen. They discuss the nuances of saying "no," the strength found in "and" over "but," and the art of observational listening. If you've ever felt the pressure of cultural communication barriers or the ripples of emotional intelligence in the workplace, this episode will resonate with you. Here, authenticity and psychological safety are not just concepts, but practised philosophies that shape successful, innovative teams. So, take a moment to listen to the transformative ideas that Markus and Cathleen bring to the table. Get ready to be equipped with strategies that could redefine your approach to leadership. Tune in to discover how embracing empathy can unfold into your most authentic self and foster genuine connection in your personal and professional life.
 
Episode Timeline: 
 
11:46 Challenging emotions tied to Western societal upbringing.
20:43 Empathy training uses role-playing for understanding.
26:23 Focus on one task at a time.
27:45 Focus on what to do, get curious.
35:37 Happy employees lead to better performance and retention.
39:54 Emotional regulation is crucial in tough situations.
45:04 Noticing body signals to prevent stress explosion.
52:06 Justify saying no can be counterproductive.
56:31 Saying yes to everything leads to burnout.
1:00 Speaking up is crucial for tech success.
1:07 Embracing diversity in high-tech for innovation.
1:18 Improve empathy through active listening.



Key Takeaways: 
Saying "No" with Power: Discover why lengthy explanations can hinder professional relationships and learn the art of concise refusal that respects both parties.
Cultivating 'AND' Culture: We explore the subtle yet impactful shift from "but" to "and" in conversations to foster inclusivity and encourage diverse perspectives in leadership.
The Empathetic Leader: Embrace the role of empathy in creating a safe space for innovation and understand the significance of leaders' authenticity in promoting team well-being for positive business outcomes.
 
ABOUT MARKUS VAN ALPHEN
Renowned leadership psychologist and author of more than 15 books in Dutch and English, Markus van Alphen developed the Observational Listening concept in 2014.  Observational Listening goes a step further than active listening in understanding what an individual has to say. By observing what emotions they are experiencing, you really get the other’s story and their underlying emotions, whereby the other feels heard, seen, acknowledged and psychologically safe, resulting in increased happiness, motivation, and overall success. Observational listening augments empathic leadership in a powerful way into excellent leadership. 
 
Find out more: https://excellent-leader.com/
 
Social Meida Links:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/the-excellent-leader/; https://www.linkedin.com/in/markusvanalphen/
X/Twitter: https://twitter.com/MarkusvanAlphen
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/markusvanalphen/
YouTube: https://youtube.com/channel/UCKb14iJQMlhuMcHpSulgcBA



Connect: 
 
Find | Cathleen O’Sullivan 
Business: cathleenmerkel.com  
Email: cmc@cathleenmerkelcoaching.com 
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/cathleen-merkel-2b0991151 
Instagram: www.instagram.com/cathleenmerkel 
Twitter: twitter.com/CathleenMerkel7 
 
 
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Cathleen and Claire Chandler explore the vital role of aligning personal talents with professional roles, the necessity of setting boundaries for energy management, and the profound impact of mindset on leadership capacity. Together, they unpack Claire's journey from overcoming the skepticism that greeted her career transition to the liberation she felt as she embraced her true path. For those who have ever felt confined by corporate norms or struggled with the transition into a management role, Claire's insights into authenticity and vulnerability are a must-listen.
 
They also discuss the challenges HR departments face as they shift from traditional roles to become the architects of company culture, and how they can support leaders in this transformative time. Prepare to be moved by Claire's touching experiences and the wisdom she's gathered on her journey from the corporate world to advising executives on how to retain their best talent during expansions through her "growth on purpose" methodology. This isn't just a conversation - it's a masterclass in becoming the leader you were meant to be.
 
 
Episode Timeline: 
 
00:00 Introduction
08:25 Organisations improving inclusion, but need broader acceptance.
11:33 Recognise blind spots, create capacity for growth.
17:49 First boss shaped career boundaries early on.
21:50 Authenticity and vulnerability are key to effective leadership.
30:47 Engaged audience through unexpected interaction, transformed career.
36:23 Overcoming fear to be authentic and passionate.
39:39 Cancer was a gift, motivated change.
44:10 Transitioning into a leadership position, faced resistance, but persisted.
52:41 Understanding the "why" of business success.
55:56 Reevaluate roles, schedules, and capacity for productivity.
01:02:06 HR must create capacity, find future talent.
01:05:27 True inclusion in problem-solving creates workforce fulfilment.





Key Takeaways: 
Navigating organisational expansion with purpose.
Harnessing "limitless talent" to drive success.
Redefining leadership with vulnerability and authenticity.
 
ABOUT CLARE CHANDLER
 
President and Founder of Talent Boost, Claire Chandler specializes in aligning HR and
business leaders so they can deliver strategic outcomes... both today and in the future. She taps into over 25 years of experience in people leadership, human resources, and business ownership to help leadership teams work together more effectively in less time, with less cultural resistance, so they can accelerate their business growth. She has broad-based expertise in
management team due diligence, organizational design, acquisition integration and onboarding,
strategic planning, executive coaching, and performance acceleration.Claire holds a certificate in strategic HR leadership from Cornell’s School of Industrial and Labor Relations, a master’s degree from the New Jersey Institute of Technology, and a bachelor’s degree from Fairfield University. She has appeared as a guest on over 100 podcasts and is the author of several books on leadership and business strategy.
 
Connect with Claire:
Website: https://www.clairechandler.net/
 
Social Media Links:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/clairechandlersphr/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/Claire_Talent
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/talentboostllc
 
Connect: 
 
Find | Cathleen O’Sullivan 
Business: cathleenmerkel.com  
Email: cmc@cathleenmerkelcoaching.com 
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/cathleen-merkel-2b0991151 
Instagram: www.instagram.com/cathleenmerkel 
Twitter: twitter.com/CathleenMerkel7 
 
 
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Join Cathleen as she delves into the art of communication and connection with the remarkable Laura Crandall. Renowned for her expertise in fostering communication and human connection within the corporate framework. Laura is a communications expert and the author of Working with Humans.
In this riveting conversation, they unpack the art of active listening, the magic of managing with lightheartedness, and the significance of honing those all-too-often undervalued fundamental social skills in the workplace.
They explore the transformative power of simply being present and how mastering the basics, such as direct communication, can alleviate misunderstandings and bolster trust. So, whether you’re a seasoned leader or just starting, get ready to dive deep into what it means to navigate the complexities of the workplace with empathy, clarity, and a touch of humour.
 
Episode Timeline: 
 
11:21 Book discusses essential skills for human interaction.
19:56 Leadership requires empathy, influence, mentoring, and manners.
25:47 Value time, courtesy, and foundational behaviors.
30:32 Reexamining priorities and reclaiming social interactions.
35:59 Acknowledge issues, find humour, and encourage open communication.
38:44 Leveraging energy and playfulness for work success.
47:05 Key questions to consider for effective communication.
49:59 Prioritise relationships, not just shiny new tools.
58:11 Focus on the process, not just output.
01:01 Living in alignment with your values is important.
01:06 Balancing academic rigour with self-confidence and authenticity.
01:14 Helping leaders understand and change problematic behaviour.
01:16 Expertly navigating difficult conversations by building foundations.

 
Key Takeaways: 
The Power of Presence. Both Laura and Cathleen advocate for the importance of being wholly present in conversations, affirming that active listening is integral to saving time, uncovering essential details, and deepening relationships.
Back to Basics. Good workplace communication is paralleled with an excellent Italian meal; it's about high-quality fundamental ingredients like manners, acknowledgment, and showing genuine interest in others that build trust and create a positive environment.
Humanity in Leadership. Embracing your true self, incorporating playfulness, and acknowledging personal and others’ successes can lead to a more fulfilling and productive work culture, countering the stress of performance pressures.
 
ABOUT LAURA CRANDALL:
Laura Crandall founded her management consulting firm, Slate Communication, in 2009. For over thirty years, she has worked in and consulted with industries that include manufacturing, journalism, hospitality, and academia; fifteen of those years were spent managing teams. Her work is dedicated to helping people within organizations discover and develop foundational management and communication skills—the background skills we assume everyone has, but rarely discuss. In her new book, Working With Humans, Laura shares the essential but generally ignored tools needed to communicate, manage, and lead with the quality that most workplaces are lacking: humanity. Laura earned her master’s degree from Harvard Graduate School of Education, where she studied cognitive neuroscience and organizational behavior.
 
Website: https://lauracrandall.com/ 
Book: https://workingwithhumans.com/ 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lauracrandalledm/ 
 
Connect: 
 
Find | Cathleen O’Sullivan 
Business: www.cathleenmerkel.com    
Email: cmc@cathleenmerkelcoaching.com  
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/cathleen-merkel-2b0991151  
Instagram: www.instagram.com/cathleenmerkel  
Twitter: twitter.com/CathleenMerkel7   
 
 
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In this episode, Cathleen O’Sullivan chats with the remarkable Beth Knight, a leader in the sustainability sector and recent recipient of the Great British Business Woman of the Year Award. We delve deep into the seismic shifts across the global economy and the significant role consumers and leaders play in catalysing change. We also discuss the dilemmas of overconsumption exacerbated during pivotal life moments. Beth presents her unique insights into how psychology and advertising coerce buyer behaviour and what can be done to change it. She also recounts her conscious departure from Amazon to pursue a portfolio career that aligns with her core values, influencing sectors like sustainable tourism and spreading her wings into roles that support children's welfare and refugee aid, a testament to her undying commitment to social impact. Let's explore the world of Beth Knight, where leadership isn't just about business acumen, but about integrity, empathy, and the pursuit of positive lasting change.
 
Episode Timeline: 
 
10:14 Amazon's pandemic relief and education support program.
14:06 Colleague’s trust led to successful mobilisation efforts.
19:32 Took bold leap, relocated to Kenya.
32:32 Misunderstood my romanticised idea of smuggling.
36:02 Embracing community and navigating uncomfortable situations.
42:36 Navigating raising a boy in today's world.
46:53 Parenting is hard, support network is crucial.
53:18 Family, role models, kindness, hustle, upbringing, heritage.
54:59 Parents juggle full-time work and family responsibilities.
01:05 Consumer power can drive economic change.
01:08 Reflecting on consumerism and the power of branding.
01:12 Multiple job titles, same focus: responsible leadership.
 
Key Takeaways: 
Sustainability in Leadership:  Beth underscores the importance of leaders who not only drive strategy but also foster regenerative practices. Her journey from working at Amazon exemplifies a conscious shift towards impactful work that aligns with one's values.
Individual Impact on Economy: Our conversation highlighted how personal choices, especially during pivotal times of life such as early motherhood or global crises like the COVID pandemic, shape market demands. The role of consumers is potent and pivotal in advocating for a shift towards sustainability.
Adapting to Change: Beth’s candid story of moving her family to Kenya provides insight into embracing cultural changes and redefining identity. Such experiences can deeply influence leadership style and personal growth, reinforcing the value of adaptability and community.
 
ABOUT BETH KNIGHT
Beth Knight is a leading figure in social impact and sustainability with over fifteen years' experience in purpose-led business transformation. Named 'Great British Businesswoman of the Year' in 2022, her expertise spans tech-for-good, sustainable development and impact investing. Beth is a frequent speaker, advisor and coach on mobilising the private sector around climate change, social justice and upskilling on sustainability. She is a Senior Associate and Head Tutor at the University of CambridgeInstitute of Sustainability Leadership ('CISL') and holds non-executive positions - ranging from Department for Culture Media & Sports ('DCMS') British Tourism Authority, to Chair of Save the Children’s corporate advisory board, to Tech Domain Expert for Carbon13’s venture builder. Beth's held roles at Amazon, EY and Accenture. She was also a trailblazer of the UK's Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability Apprenticeship standard.
 
Connect:
Website: www.sustainableleaders.ltd
Social Media Links:
LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/beth-knight/
Twitter: twitter.com/bethzknight
Facebook: www.facebook.com/bethzknight/
Pinterest: www.pinterest.co.uk/bethzknight/
Instagram: www.instagram.com/bethzknight/
 
Connect: 
 
Find | Cathleen O’Sullivan 
Business: cathleenmerkel.com  
Email: cmc