Inspiring Leadership with Jonathan Bowman-Perks MBE

As the co-founder of OasisX, Jimi is driving the innovation and growth of a company that leverages technology and decentralization to create new opportunities and solutions in various industries, such as real estate, trading, and gaming. With a passion for emerging technologies, he entered the cryptocurrency space in 2016 by establishing a successful crypto mining farm in Lebanon, and has since become a reputable crypto trader and investor, with a commitment to empowering talented individuals to shape the future. Jimi is also a partner of Jamil Ibrahim Establishment, one of Lebanon's leading family-owned high-end residential development companies, where he applies his diverse background and expertise in real estate, FNB, tech, and entertainment to identify and execute profitable investments across the globe. Equipped with the skills and knowledge to navigate the complex and dynamic markets and sectors he operates in, a true visionary, Jimi is dedicated to making a lasting impact on the world through his entrepreneurial pursuits. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Roland Rudd – Founder & Chair, FGS Global Roland Rudd is a founder and Chair of FGS Global, the leading stakeholder advisory group created through the combination of Finsbury, Hering Schuppener, Glover Park Group and Sard Verbinnen. He provides personal counsel to board members and senior executives at the most critical moments for their companies. Prior to founding the strategic communications company Finsbury in 1994, he worked as a political and financial journalist at the Financial Times and The Times. Roland is also the Chair of Tate, which he has been involved with for the past 25 years, first serving as a Patron, Chair of the Business Advisory Group and then as Deputy Chair. He has also been a Trustee and fundraiser for the Royal Opera House and is currently a Trustee of the Bayreuth Festival, as well as a patron of Grange Park Opera and the Holburne Museum. He is currently Chair of the Governors for Millfield School, a Trustee at Speakers for Schools, an ambassador for Made by Dyslexia and an Honorary Fellow at the Centre for Corporate Reputation, Regents College, Oxford University. He also serves as a Specially Appointed Commissioner at the Royal Hospital Chelsea and is an Ambassador for the Alzheimer’s Society. Top Leadership Tip: Be focused: it’s so easy to waste time on things that have little or no relevance to what you are doing. Most people waste at least half their time doing irrelevant stuff. Be effective: make what you are doing count, by making a difference. Don’t put things off; do them now. Have fun: you are best at what you are most passionate about. And in pursuing what you like best, it’s important to have fun. Summary 1-line: “Be focused, be effective, and have fun – you are best at what you are most passionate about, and in pursuing what you like best, it’s important to have fun”. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr STEPHEN BARDEN, Dprof Dr Stephen Barden is a respected strategic, business and operational partner to corporate leaders and their organisations. After decades of experience at CEO and executive board levels across the media, technology, and communications sectors, Dr Barden established a thriving private practice in 2001, working extensively in the UK, Europe, the USA and Asia. Stephen is one of a few individuals who took up coach mentoring after having been at the top of the corporate ladder. And it is this experience of running entire organizations that has grounded his practice in both pragmatic wisdom as well as holistic strategy. His approach has helped his clients achieve strategic zenith whilst maintaining enough transparency “on the ground” to monitor ethical integrity. At an individual level, he empowers leaders and managers to wield their authority effectively, ensuring their true potential is harnessed. If his road to coach-mentoring was not via the usual HR-led path, neither was that to corporate leadership. Born in Tanzania, his parents sent him to what was then Apartheid South Africa after his birthplace’s liberation from colonial rule. His subsequent work in South Africa as broadcaster and political activist resulted in his being detained and then deported to Britain, where he landed with his wife, one year old son, a reel-to-reel tape recorder, 300 dollars and one contact. Realising that the on-screen/on mike star-roles were closely guarded, he focused on management in the media and later technology. Within 10 years he had reached the level of Managing Editor, then COO and finally CEO. He worked with, and for, such colourful characters as Rupert Murdoch, Jonathan and Tim Aitken, Bruce Gyngell and Guy Hands – involving projects in the UK, the US, mainland Europe and Asia. Dr Barden is also a writer and podcaster. His book, "How Successful Leaders Do Business with Their World," is a testament to his passion for fostering partnerships between leaders and stakeholders, arguing that the most successful leaders, partner with their stakeholders, to optimise access to the best ideas for both strategies and execution. As he puts it, “leaders who do not partner with their world risk shrinking their organisations to the size of their heads – and no one has a head that large.” Meticulously researched, very readable and strikingly insightful, his book shows how the experiences and assumptions, formed by children about the power balance they hold with their world goes on to help shape the way they wield authority and power as individuals. Drawing from interviews with top military, corporate, and educational leaders, Stephen’s book provides a wealth of practical wisdom for real-world application. Stephen presents and produces two podcasts: Migrant Odyssey, in which he explores the narratives of refugees and migrants; and The Power of Balance, which expands on the themes of his book. This extraordinarily rich experience has gifted Dr Barden with both the ability and appetite to shift perspectives, catalyse transformation, and empower organisations to not be left behind by the unforgiving changes sweeping the world. With a proven track record of driving success through ethical partnering leadership, Stephen is a sought-after speaker and partner for organisations and leaders dedicated to making a meaningful impact. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

David P. Kasperson is co-author of the Wall Street Journal bestselling book, Trust & Inspire: How Truly Great Leaders Unleash Greatness in Others. He has been building high-trust partnerships and innovative solutions for clients of FranklinCovey’s Global Trust Practice for more than 15 years, and has been instrumental in developing and teaching the Speed of Trust content. David is a collaborator with Stephen M. R. Covey, managing his speaking business and custom client solutions as the Director of Business Development. An expert on trust, he has served clients via consulting, coaching, program design, and keynote speaking in more than twenty countries. Prior to leading the Speed of Trust speaking business, David managed the Leading at the Speed of Trust Executive Workshop program held in Sundance, Utah, a premier senior-level leadership training, where he worked with hundreds of senior level and influential leaders from across the globe. His client experience includes work with multinational organizations, Fortune 500 companies, franchising, nonprofit, small businesses, educational and governmental agencies, pharmaceutical companies, and financial institutions, including Procter & Gamble, Microsoft, Adventist Health, Kash Group, Lockheed Martin, Nestle, Real Estate Board of New York, Chevron, Yale New Haven Health Center, Astellas, eBay, LinkedIn, Lend Lease Asia, and Utah Valley University. David graduated Summa Cum Laude with a BA & an AA in Communication Theory & Practice from Utah Valley University. He recently served on the Board of Trustees at Mountainville Academy, a “Leader in Me” school that incorporates The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People into its curriculum. David resides with his wife and children in Utah’s beautiful Rocky Mountains. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jim is the founder and Chairman of Afterburner Inc., a prominent management consulting and leadership training firm consisting of over 80 accomplished military professionals, both current and former. Having served as an F-15 Fighter/Instructor pilot in the U.S. Air Force, he established Afterburner in 1996. Jim is also the author of seven insightful books covering a spectrum of topics, from leadership and management development to veteran career transition. He stands as a globally acknowledged thought leader in agile continuous improvement, a pivotal aspect of Afterburner's acclaimed Flawless Execution methodology. Utilising Flawless Execution, Jim and his Afterburner team collaborate with numerous global corporations to foster results, bridge execution gaps, and expedite their individual, team, and organisational performance. Afterburner's excellence has been lauded with six Inc. Magazine's fastest growing company awards, and inclusion in Forbes Magazine's Small Giants List. They've engaged with 85% of the U.S. Fortune 50 and numerous Global 1000 corporations spanning 24 countries. The impactful work of Afterburner has graced esteemed publications such as The Wall Street Journal, Business Week, Financial Times, Newsweek, and Meetings and Conventions Magazine. Their insights have also been featured on prominent national media networks including CNN, Fox News, CNBC, and Bloomberg News. Moreover, Jim holds the esteemed position of Co-Founder and former Chairman at Advanced Care Partners, an expeditiously advancing home healthcare company dedicated to the care of our nation's medically fragile children since 2010. The company has consistently secured a spot on Inc. Magazine's list of fastest growing companies each year since 2016 (6x). In a recent milestone, Advanced Care Partners joined forces with a leading private equity firm in the healthcare sector to propel their growth into the future. With a keen interest in start-ups, Jim is an active investor and board member in several ventures. Presently, he is actively seeking to expand his footprint in the realm of private equity, leveraging his expertise to guide companies through Afterburner Capital. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Saul brings almost 30 years of global clinical, commercial and governance experience in the healthcare and life sciences industries, having practice medicine in South Africa and the United Kingdom, been commercially responsible for the successful global launch of a $1BN+ annual revenue device delivered biotechnology product, and has led various advisory practices/firms focused on the regulatory, compliance, disputes and investigations. As an independent monitor and independent compliance expert to Life Sciences companies under government scrutiny and/or enforcement, Saul regularly interacts with the Office of Inspector General – Health and Human Services, the Department of Justice and the Drug Enforcement Agency. Saul brings this unique experience of clinical, commercial and compliance experience to his support of governance within the industry. Speaking regularly at industry conferences, Saul has also published extensively on the role of the Board of Directors as it relates to their fiduciary responsibilities and healthcare compliance. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Pat is a retired Royal Marines Officer who lives in the Peak District with his wife Nicky. His mountaineering career began at school in the mountains of North Wales and since then he has climbed widely, made first ascents and led many expeditions to the Himalayas, Antarctica, North America, Africa and the alps. In 1980 he was awarded the Royal Humane Society Bronze medal for saving the life of a fellow climber on a mountain in India. His career in the Royal Marines was long and varied; he ran the Nigerian Army Jungle Warfare Course and also commanded the Mountain & Arctic Warfare Cadre during Operation Haven, the Kurdish refugee crisis in 1991. He served as an advisor to the Kosovo Liberation Army and his last posting was in the Czech Republic where he commanded the British Military Training Team in Eastern Europe. Pat’s outdoor agenda was interrupted in 2018 when he suffered a serious climbing accident, sustained a spinal injury and was diagnosed as an ‘incomplete paraplegic’. At the accident site he was rescued by the Derby Mountain Rescue Team which, although not apparent at the time, was to open another chapter of his life. Pat enjoys Sea kayaking, mountain biking, motor biking, and boating. He is currently the Chairman of the Derby Mountain Rescue Team - the same team that rescued him in 2008. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Chip Massey Mercy is a former FBI hostage negotiator & special agent who led high-profile cases spearheading the New York’s FBI office Crisis negotiation team. He was involved in post 9/11 investigations and won the prestigious FBI Director’s award. He is co-founder, the convincing company, a crisis, communication and training firm where he helps executives and the teams apply FBI negotiation techniques in business situations. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gavin Patterson Gavin has significant international senior leadership experience and has served on boards for companies across FTSE, NASDAQ, AIM and for private equity as well as charities and educational establishments. He has worked across airlines, business services, consumer products, software, technology, telecommunications and third sector. His portfolio currently includes chairing Elixirr plc, Beamery Inc, Kraken Technology and Kahoot!, while also serving on the boards of Wix Inc, Fractal Analytics and Malt. He acts as a Senior Advisor to Octopus Energy, Alix Partners, Celonis, CAA and Blackstone. He chairs the British-American Business Association. He completed his executive career as President and Chief Revenue Officer at Salesforce from 2019-23, overseeing a period when the business almost doubled its revenues. Previously, he served on the board of BT Group plc for 11 years including six as CEO from 2013-19, leading the business through the acquisition of EE, its investment in sport, its major expansion of the fibre network, the creation of a market leading cyber security business and the championing the company’s approach to responsible and sustainable business. He started his career at P&G in Brand Management. Gavin has also served as a trustee of The British Museum, President of The Advertising Association and Chair of Business in the Community. He sat on the British Airways board between 2012-20. He has an MA MEng in Chemical Engineering from Cambridge University. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Todd Gustafson President, HP Federal LLC Head of U.S. Public Sector HP Inc. Todd Gustafson is President of HP Federal LLC and Head of U.S. Public Sector at HP Inc. In this role, Gustafson is responsible for managing customer and partner relationships, strategic financial plans, product and technology strategies, sales force strategy and structure, and P&L ownership within HP’s U.S. Public Sector business. As the leader of HP Federal LLC, a wholly owned subsidiary of HP Inc. he is focused on providing IT innovation, enabling business outcomes, and supporting the U.S. government, State and Local Government, K-12 and High-Ed across the United States. With a 30+ year tenure at HP, Gustafson has held a variety of leadership positions in Channel Sales, Direct Sales, and ISV Marketing. Most recently, Gustafson took on the role of Vice President of U.S. End User Sales, which included the Commercial customer segment. From 2006 to 2012, he was Vice President for the Personal Systems Group (PSG) Commercial Solutions organization. Prior to that, Gustafson was the Vice President of U.S. Workstation sales. Gustafson graduated from Bryant University in Smithfield, Rhode Island. He currently resides in Massachusetts, where he continues to be an avid road cyclist and remains actively involved as leader in various community organizations Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Daniel Bernard has enjoyed over twenty years’ experience in the Sports Industry, having built operations, companies and platforms across multiple territories and jurisdictions. As an active strategic investor into startups and early-stage companies in the sports and sports technology sector, Daniel is launching new initiatives to help optimise the use of data and technology by Sports Associations and Federations. Born in London in the UK, Daniel has lived in France, Spain, and Italy before settling in Israel in 1999. Working in television for the Sports Channel offered a broad entry into the industry, and he worked from the ground up through logistics and production to deal with broadcast rights acquisitions. In 2004, Daniel founded the Sports Data agency that was to become Redwood International Sports. Redwood was a first mover in advanced analysis of player and team performance always adopting innovative technologies to increase the company’s capacity to deliver quality data and insights for its customers. Daniel turned his focus in 2015 to the gaming sector and created brand new platforms for emerging markets, dealing with everything from compliance and regulation to product and IT delivery. As part of this journey, he founded Suntech Innovation in Kyiv, Ukraine, delivering fully customised and turnkey product for the specific market. Grateful to continue working in an industry he enjoys so much, Daniel is an active investor in the sports sector. In addition to his own angel investing, he is a Venture Partner with Mindspring Capital, sits on the advisory board for Sharp Alpha Fund and is connected with a number of VC funds with a global reach into the Sports Industry. In addition, he works with selected companies as a board member or in an advisory role, to bring value through strategic, operational and business development partnerships. Daniel wholeheartedly believes in servant leadership. At the center of his core values are a dedication to hard work, high energy, an entrepreneurial spirit and creating teams that embrace diversity of thought as much as they embrace diversity of background. He is a strong advocate for gender equality and believes that, beyond being morally and ethically correct, it is also extremely wise commercially. After over two decades in the Sports Industry, Daniel is now looking to maximise his focus on creating a positive impact on people’s lives through sport, both children and adults alike and in parallel via commercial and philanthropic initiatives. At the heart of this endeavour, he has founded Ride For Unity, bringing together business leaders, trailblazers and athletes from around the world to cycle together and spread the values of Diversity, Tolerance, Inclusion and Sustainability through active sessions with schools, universities and commercial forums. His Top Leadership Tip is: Leadership is so often associated with a person who stands at the front, strong in command with others following them wherever they go. My thoughts on leadership have evolved to see things differently. Each of us has our own capabilities, our own possible future. We cannot know what the best future for those around us can be. Hence, in leadership, the best we can do is to be like a shepherd at the back to allow them to step forward themselves without fear, as we guide and support them in their journey. It is a leader’s responsibility to help steer whilst still allowing our people to find their own path to their best self. Be the Shepherd your people need, rather than the commander they think they want. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Leah Tedrow is a seasoned Strategic Communications, Internal and External Marketing expert specializing in mass media and public relations/social engineering campaigns in conflict, post conflict and developing countries, with over 29-years experience in the global media, marketing and business development field. She has helped lead and develop over $750 million in strategic communications and social change campaigns. As a business executive and long-time media and contracts liaison to U.S. and NATO military commands, Leah has proven experience managing businesses, projects, campaigns and contracts that deliver the results that senior executives, board members and clients need under stringent guidelines, requirements and often austere environments. Leah has 11 years experience in the U.S. Army as a military broadcast journalist, producing multiple-award-winning programs and documentaries and is a three-time Department of Defense Thomas Jefferson Award Recipient, Crystal Communicators Award of Excellence winner, the U.S. Army Europe Broadcast Journalist of the Year (2003), and recipient of over a dozen U.S. Army Keith L. Ware Award’s in both radio and television. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

1. **The Why Behind the Podcast:** Join us on the Inspiring Leadership Podcast as we celebrate our 5th year by revisiting the inception of this transformative journey. 2. **MQ - Moral Quotient:** Explore the moral landscape of leadership with insightful discussions on integrity, values, and life plans from guests like General The Lord Dannatt and Daniel Bernard. 3. **PQ - Purpose Quotient:** Discover the profound meaning and purpose driving the lives of inspiring leaders such as Nando Cesarone, Marc Allera, General Petraeus, and Colonel Stuart Tootal. 4. **HQ - Health Quotient:** Uncover the health secrets of successful individuals, from targeted nutrition and supplements to innovative practices like hot/cold therapy and wearable tech, as shared by guests like Barbara Cox-Lovsey, Yilmaz Erceyes, and Graham Brown. 5. **EQ - Emotional & Social Intelligence Quotient:** Delve into the realms of emotional and social intelligence with impactful stories from guests like Chip Massey and Herb Lang, who inspire both adults and children alike. 6. **CQ: Cultural & Collective Intelligence Quotient:** Ride for Unity with Sheika Sareh Ameri and Faisal Al Nuami (Episode 295) as we explore the importance of cultural and collective intelligence in our ever-changing world. 7. **RQ - Resilience Quotient:** Learn how successful guests overcome adversity, featuring stories of resilience from Justin Levene, Rodney Flowers, Jessica Smith, and Hari Buddha Magar. 8. **BQ - Personal Brand Quotient:** Navigate the realm of personal branding with a focus on servant leadership, exploring the impactful brands represented by guests like Ben Bengougam, Jon, and SAS leaders. 9. **LQ - Legacy Quotient:** Understand the legacy and stewardship values that matter most to our guests, including stories of making a difference from Brian J Esposito, Sophie Neary, and the vibrant life of Manley Hopkinson. 10. **Podcast Highlights:** Tune in for a celebration of openness, vulnerability, and recommendations from remarkable leaders like General David Petraeus, Prof Sharon Peacock, Guy Hands, and special forces leaders. 11. **Top Leadership Tips:** Conclude your journey with profound 2-minute leadership tips, including insights from General The Lord Dannatt, General Sir Mike Jackson, Huw Owen, and Dr. Chris Pyle. 12. **Top Book Recommendations:** Elevate your leadership knowledge with recommended reads, including classics like "How to Win Friends and Influence People" and modern gems like "The Daily Stoic" and "The Promise that Changes Everything." Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

1.Why the Inspiring Leadership Podcast and What Does it Mean to You? The Inspiring Leadership Podcast originated in 2019, and as we embark on our fifth year, it's an opportune moment to reflect on its inception. Early guests, including Lieutenant General Sir Nick Pope (Episode 1), Commandant RMAS Paul Nanson (Episode 3), Alison Nimmo, CEO of Crown Estate (Episode 2), and Philippa Snare, SVP of The Trade Desk (Episode 4), laid the foundation for the podcast's evolution. The guiding principle has always been to inspire and empower leaders to be their best selves, while also recommending other inspiring leaders as guests. 2. Which Podcast Guests Have Shaped Your CEO Leadership Coaching and Team Trust-Building Offsites? Noteworthy figures such as Stephen Covey (Episode 299), Commander David Marquet (Episode 120), Jeff Nischwitz (Episode 138), and participants in The CEO Forums have been instrumental in shaping my CEO leadership coaching and Team Trust-Building Offsites. The forums provide a platform for reciprocal learning among participants. 3. What Are Your Favorite Guests and Episodes Among the 300? Some standout guests and episodes from the extensive list include Mike Manazir (Episode 270), Lords Richards (Episode 298), Matt Oppenheimer (Episode 43), Deanna Oppenheimer (Episode 80), Catherine Baird (Episode 29), and SVP Emirates Cabin Crew. 4. What Were the Best Pieces of Advice Your Guests Wished They Had When Starting Out (Aged 16-18)? Maj Gen Andrew Mackay, in Episode 181, emphasized the importance of acknowledging that what you don't know is often more crucial than what you do know. He urged individuals to read, foster curiosity, and engage in critical thinking. Other valuable advice from various guests included being less intense, saying "yes" more often, learning from failure, maintaining integrity and keeping one's word, and being courageous and confident in personal beliefs, as shared by Darren Moorcroft. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

We are thrilled to introduce this week's guest, Stephen M.R. Covey, a visionary leader in the fields of trust, leadership, ethics, and collaboration. With a distinguished career and a passion for empowering individuals and organisations, Stephen Covey has left an indelible mark on the world of business and leadership. Stephen is not only a co-founder of CoveyLink but also the driving force behind the FranklinCovey Global Trust Practice. As a sought-after and captivating keynote speaker and advisor, he shares his wisdom on trust-related topics with audiences worldwide. At the heart of his acclaim is his groundbreaking book, "The Speed of Trust," which defies conventional wisdom by demonstrating that trust is a powerful economic driver rather than a mere social virtue. This New York Times and #1 Wall Street Journal bestseller has been translated into 22 languages and has sold over 2 million copies globally, cementing Stephen's status as a thought leader in trust-building. His most recent work, the Wall Street Journal bestseller "Trust & Inspire: How Truly Great Leaders Unleash Greatness in Others," challenges the status quo of leadership. In a world where many still operate under the "Command & Control" model, Stephen advocates for a paradigm shift towards "Trust & Inspire." This approach empowers leaders to unlock the full potential of their teams, fostering a sense of purpose, meaning, contribution, and inclusion. The result is a level of belonging, collaboration, and innovation that traditional models can't match. Stephen Covey firmly believes that trust is the new currency of our world, and he is dedicated to equipping individuals and organizations with the skills to cultivate, extend, and restore trust with all stakeholders. His tangible, practical approach to trust resonates deeply with audiences and organisations alike. As a former CEO of Covey Leadership Center, Stephen's impressive track record includes transforming the company into the world's largest leadership development organization. He spearheaded the strategic expansion of his father's iconic book, "The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People," solidifying its place as one of the most influential business books of the 20th Century. Stephen, a Harvard MBA, began his journey with Covey Leadership Center as a Client Developer, eventually becoming National Sales Manager and then President & CEO. Under his leadership, the company achieved remarkable milestones, including Inc. 500 status, nearly doubling revenues while increasing profits by 12 times, and expanding into over 40 countries. Stephen's strategic vision increased shareholder value by an astounding 67 times during a merger with FranklinQuest, resulting in the formation of FranklinCovey. Throughout his career, Stephen has earned the respect and influence of executives and leaders from Fortune 500 companies, mid-sized enterprises, and public sector organizations. His unique perspective, grounded in practical experience as a former CEO, makes him a trusted advisor on real-world organisational challenges. We look forward to delving into Stephen Covey's insights and expertise in our upcoming interview. Stay tuned for an enriching discussion on trust, leadership, and the path to inspiring greatness in others.. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

General The Lord Richards of Herstmonceux GCB CBE DSO DL General David Richards led operations in East Timor, Sierra Leone, and Afghanistan. He is probably best known for his command in Sierra Leone in 2000 when he interpreted his orders creatively to achieve more than was at first thought possible, ensuring the ultimate defeat of the RUF rebels and the avoidance of much bloodshed in the capital Freetown. He went on to command NATO forces in Afghanistan during the Alliance’s expansion of responsibility across the whole country. Having first commanded the British Army, in 2010 he became Chief of the Defence Staff, the professional head of Britain’s armed forces and their strategic commander as well as the Prime Minister’s military adviser and a member of the National Security Council. His UK operational awards include a Mention in Despatches, Commander of the British Empire, Distinguished Service Order and Knight Commander of the Bath; the first officer to receive an operational knighthood since World War 2. In 2011 he received the annual Churchillian Award for leadership. He retired in July 2013. David was created Baron Richards of Herstmonceux in February 2014 and now sits as a cross-bencher in the House of Lords. Amongst other appointments he is a visiting Professor of Exeter University and an Honorary Fellow of both King’s College London and Cardiff University. Until recently he was Executive Chairman of Equilibrium Global the geo-strategic advisory company. He is actively involved with a number of charities, especially the Royal Commonwealth Ex-Services League of which he is the Grand President. A keen sailor he is a member of the Royal Yacht Squadron, the Royal Cruising Club and the Royal Artillery Yacht Club. His autobiography Taking Command was published in October 2014. His second book, on the death of Grand Strategy, is due to be published in June 2024. He lectures extensively on strategy and leadership. Interviewed for Desert Island Discs in 2014 David received widespread praise for saying: “I see myself as a moral soldier. I do not associate the military with wars and bloodshed in the narrow sense. I associate the military with doing good, bringing down tyrants, with releasing people's ambitions for their children." It neatly sums up the moral code he sought to apply to his time as a professional soldier. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Marc Allera: CEO - EE and Consumer Division at BT Group As head of three of the UK’s leading communications brands – EE, BT and Plusnet – Marc runs the largest subscription business in the UK, with 25 million subscribers on the UK’s best and biggest mobile and fibre networks generating more than half a billion visits to its apps and websites every year. Under Marc’s leadership, EE is on a journey to becoming the most personal, customer-focused brand in the country. New EE is doing more: offering much more besides the connectivity it's known for by bringing customers new products and services in partnership with some of the world's biggest and best brands, from gaming to security. Marc believes a more personal business should reflect the customers it serves, with people of all ages, backgrounds, abilities, religions, ethnicities, and experiences across the UK. Empowering people through technology is at the top of Marc's agenda, too: having been first to launch 5G in the UK with EE, Marc is now driving the rollout of next-gen networks with an ambition to cover anywhere in the UK with 5G by 2028. Customer experience is also crucial: EE has been independently named the UK's best network for 10 years in a row, while Marc has steered both EE and BT to their highest-ever NPS results, with complaints at an all-time low. Previously, Marc was a driving force behind Three’s growth from start-up to major player in mobile. Prior to that, he was General Manager of Sega UK. He sits on the Corporate Partnerships Board at Great Ormond Street Hospital Charity. Marc's top leadership tip: "Don't think about your hierarchical structure as a typical pyramid. Turn it upside down. Me and my leadership team are there to serve our 25m customers, and our colleagues in the business. And that's how we try and behave, how we try and spend our time – the most important people in our business are those who speak to customers directly, whether that's in our stores or contact centres. That's a really important mindset that I've tried to get myself and our teams into. We are in service of our colleagues and customers. Forget the 'pyramid'." Socials: Twitter and Instagram: @marcallera @EE LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/marc-allera-b61754/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jessica Smith, OAM, OLY: Inspiring Leader and Champion of Inclusivity Jessica Smith stands as a beacon of resilience, inspiration, and impactful change. An Australian Paralympian swimmer who competed in the 2004 Paralympic Games in Athens, Jessica has transformed her athletic achievements into a powerful platform for advocacy and empowerment. Background and Achievements: Australian Paralympian: Competed in the 2004 Paralympic Games in Athens. Motivational Speaker & Published Author: Renowned for her dynamic speaking skills and insightful children's books. Co-founder: Instrumental in establishing a company focusing on inclusive talent management. Accolades: 2017 Cosmopolitan Woman of the Year Game Changer, Australian Government Positive Body Image Award Emerging Leader, and recipient of the Pride of Australia Medal. Disability Inclusion Consultant: As a global consultant, Jessica is dedicated to enhancing disability inclusion across various sectors. Her work spans public speaking, writing, and leveraging social media to foster discussions on diversity and accessibility. Personal Journey: Overcoming physical challenges: Born without her left arm and surviving a severe burn accident at a young age. Sporting success: Represented Australia in swimming for seven years, leading to her Paralympic journey. Battled and overcame personal struggles with depression and eating disorders in her 20s. Advocacy and Impact: Post-retirement, Jessica emerged as a vocal advocate for positive body image, diversity, inclusion, and disability awareness. Educational qualifications: BSc. Population Health from the University of Wollongong and executive studies in Gender Diversity at INSEAD. Speaking Engagements: Featured at schools, universities, corporations, community organizations, and international platforms like the UN. Focuses on sharing her experiences and insights on diversity, inclusion, and equality. Awards and Honors: Recognized for her advocacy work with numerous awards, including a Pride of Australia Medal, ‘Emerging Leader’ by the Australian Government, and the ‘Woman of The Year’ by Cosmopolitan Magazine. Honored with the ‘Medal of the Order of Australia’ for her community roles and dedication to sport. State finalist for ‘Young Australian of The Year’ in 2015. Literary Contributions: Authored the children’s book series ‘Just Jessica’, inspired by her journey into motherhood and the need for resources on disability and acceptance. Current Endeavors: Relocated to Dubai, working as a speaker and advisor on diversity and inclusion. Jessica Smith’s life story is not just about overcoming adversity but about harnessing those experiences to inspire, educate, and make a tangible difference in the world. Her journey from a Paralympic swimmer to a global advocate for inclusivity is a testament to the power of resilience and the impact of visionary leadership. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jessica Smith, OAM, OLY: Inspiring Leader and Champion of Inclusivity Jessica Smith stands as a beacon of resilience, inspiration, and impactful change. An Australian Paralympian swimmer who competed in the 2004 Paralympic Games in Athens, Jessica has transformed her athletic achievements into a powerful platform for advocacy and empowerment. Background and Achievements: Australian Paralympian: Competed in the 2004 Paralympic Games in Athens. Motivational Speaker & Published Author: Renowned for her dynamic speaking skills and insightful children's books. Co-founder: Instrumental in establishing a company focusing on inclusive talent management. Accolades: 2017 Cosmopolitan Woman of the Year Game Changer, Australian Government Positive Body Image Award Emerging Leader, and recipient of the Pride of Australia Medal. Disability Inclusion Consultant: As a global consultant, Jessica is dedicated to enhancing disability inclusion across various sectors. Her work spans public speaking, writing, and leveraging social media to foster discussions on diversity and accessibility. Personal Journey: Overcoming physical challenges: Born without her left arm and surviving a severe burn accident at a young age. Sporting success: Represented Australia in swimming for seven years, leading to her Paralympic journey. Battled and overcame personal struggles with depression and eating disorders in her 20s. Advocacy and Impact: Post-retirement, Jessica emerged as a vocal advocate for positive body image, diversity, inclusion, and disability awareness. Educational qualifications: BSc. Population Health from the University of Wollongong and executive studies in Gender Diversity at INSEAD. Speaking Engagements: Featured at schools, universities, corporations, community organizations, and international platforms like the UN. Focuses on sharing her experiences and insights on diversity, inclusion, and equality. Awards and Honors: Recognized for her advocacy work with numerous awards, including a Pride of Australia Medal, ‘Emerging Leader’ by the Australian Government, and the ‘Woman of The Year’ by Cosmopolitan Magazine. Honored with the ‘Medal of the Order of Australia’ for her community roles and dedication to sport. State finalist for ‘Young Australian of The Year’ in 2015. Literary Contributions: Authored the children’s book series ‘Just Jessica’, inspired by her journey into motherhood and the need for resources on disability and acceptance. Current Endeavors: Relocated to Dubai, working as a speaker and advisor on diversity and inclusion. Jessica Smith’s life story is not just about overcoming adversity but about harnessing those experiences to inspire, educate, and make a tangible difference in the world. Her journey from a Paralympic swimmer to a global advocate for inclusivity is a testament to the power of resilience and the impact of visionary leadership. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

FAISAL AL NUAIMI Faisal Al Nuaimi is a seasoned professional with 30 years of experience and more than 19 years in senior roles across prominent public and private sector organisations in the UAE. Faisal is currently General Manager at Ferrari World Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, and prior to joining the turbo- powered team at Ferrari World Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, Faisal was General Manager of Qasr Al Watan, dubbed the Presidential Palace IN Abu Dhabi. Faisal has held various leadership roles in the UAE, as the former CEO of Marsa Properties, Executive Director of Sales and Marketing at Ajman Free Zone and Director General of Ajman Tourism Development Department. SHEIKHA SAREH AMERI Sheikha Sareh Ameri's diverse experiences have fuelled her commitment to global unity. As founder of Armatai GmbH, she supports women and small spice farmers worldwide. Now, as Managing Director of the 7Days 7Emirates cycling event for unity, Sareh embodies the values of sustainability, unity, and inclusion, leaving an inspiring legacy of positive global change. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.