Leadership Odysseys

Exploring Innovation and Leadership with Frerk-Malte Feller

Exploring Innovation and Leadership with Frerk-Malte Feller
In this episode of Leadership Odysseys, we dive deep into the journey of Malte, a seasoned leader in the technology and fintech industries. From his formative years growing up in Berlin to his pivotal roles at eBay, PayPal, Facebook, and beyond, Malte shares valuable insights gleaned from his diverse experiences. Join us as we uncover the lessons learned, the challenges faced, and the vision that propels him forward in his quest to drive innovation and inspire future leaders.
Key Highlights:
Childhood in Berlin:
Malte reflects on his childhood in Berlin, a city marked by its vibrant culture and the lingering presence of the Berlin Wall. Growing up amidst this historical backdrop, he developed a keen awareness of the city's dichotomy and the socio-political complexities it represented. The Wall served as a constant reminder of division and ideological conflict, fueling Malta's curiosity about the world beyond its confines. This backdrop instilled in him a sense of resilience and an appreciation for the interconnectedness of global events, shaping his perspective on innovation, collaboration, and the power of unity in overcoming barriers.
Innovation at eBay and PayPal:
Transitioning into his professional journey, Malte recounts his experiences at eBay and PayPal, where he played pivotal roles in driving innovation and shaping product strategy. He shares anecdotes of navigating the fast-paced tech landscape, tackling challenges, and harnessing the power of collaboration to deliver impactful solutions. From launching new products to expanding market reach, Malte's tenure at these tech giants laid the foundation for his future leadership endeavors.
Leadership Insights from Facebook:
At Facebook, Malte delved into the realm of messaging platforms, envisioning a future where communication with businesses seamlessly transitions to messaging apps. Despite facing challenges and setbacks, he reflects on the invaluable lessons learned and the importance of resilience in the face of adversity. From redefining product strategies to fostering a culture of innovation, Malte's journey at Facebook underscored the transformative power of leadership in driving organizational change.
 
CEO Role at Linkly:
Stepping into his role as CEO at Linkly, Malte embraced the opportunity to lead a dynamic team and drive business growth in the fintech landscape. He shares insights into the challenges and triumphs of integrating diverse businesses, refining product strategies, and fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation. Through his leadership, Linkly emerged as a dominant player in the market, testament to Malte's vision and strategic acumen.
Malte's journey exemplifies the intersection of innovation, leadership, and resilience. From his humble beginnings in Berlin to his impactful roles at tech giants and fintech startups, he embodies the spirit of a visionary leader committed to driving positive change. As he continues to chart new territories and inspire future leaders, Malte's journey serves as a beacon of inspiration for aspiring innovators and changemakers worldwide.
 
Connect with Frerk-Malte: LinkedIn 
The Trust Equation: You Tube 
Connect with Kirsty Gee:  LinkedIn |  Instagram.
Sponsorship: Naturally Glutenfree website

Unravelling the Human Psyche with Nuala Walsh, Author of "Tune In" and Founder of Mind Equity

Unravelling the Human Psyche with Nuala Walsh, Author of "Tune In" and Founder of Mind Equity (Leadership Odysseys Host: Kirsty Ghahramani)
In this captivating episode of Leadership Odysseys, host Kirsty delves deep into a thought-provoking conversation with Nuala Walsh, an esteemed author and consultant renowned for her insights into human psychology. Nuala's journey unfolds from her foundational years to her illustrious corporate career, punctuated by memorable encounters such as interviewing Bill Clinton and delivering a TEDx talk. Through candid reflections and illuminating anecdotes, Nuala provides a glimpse into the essence of her recently launched book, "Tune In," offering a unique perspective on navigating the complexities of decision-making and overcoming indecision.
 
Key Highlights:
 
Foundational Years: Nuala's journey begins with her formative years, shaped by a diverse range of experiences that laid the groundwork for her future endeavours. From her early corporate career to her passion for writing, Nuala's multifaceted background informs her unique approach to understanding human behaviour.
 
Corporate Career: Nuala's corporate career spans various roles and industries, providing her with invaluable insights into organizational dynamics and human interactions. Her experiences navigating corporate environments underscore the importance of authenticity and resilience in leadership.
 
Interviewing Bill Clinton: A highlight of Nuala's career includes the opportunity to interview former President Bill Clinton, offering her a firsthand glimpse into the mind of a global leader and further fueling her curiosity about human psychology.
 
TEDx Talk: Nuala shares her experience of delivering a TEDx talk, highlighting the challenges and rewards of public speaking while conveying her message on overcoming indecision and embracing authenticity.
 
Launch of Book and Narrative around Human Psychology: Nuala provides insights into the inspiration behind her recently launched book, "Tune In," offering a compelling narrative that explores the intricacies of human psychology. Through engaging storytelling and practical wisdom, Nuala invites readers to reconsider their approach to decision-making and embrace a more conscious mindset.
 
Nuala Walsh's journey is a testament to the transformative power of curiosity, resilience, and authenticity. From her early experiences in corporate settings to her current role as a thought leader in human psychology, Nuala's unwavering commitment to understanding the human psyche continues to inspire and empower others. As readers embark on a journey through her book "Tune In" and listeners glean insights from her engaging dialogue, Nuala's influence transcends boundaries, sparking meaningful conversations and fostering a deeper understanding of the human experience.
 
Connect with Nuala: LinkedIn | Website 
Mind Equity: LinkedIn 
Tune In: Amazon | Website
Connect with Kirsty Gee:  LinkedIn |  Instagram.
Sponsorship: Naturally Glutenfree website

Unveiling the Entrepreneurial Journey with Steve Grace

Unveiling the Entrepreneurial Journey with Steve Grace 
In this episode, we embark on an entrepreneurial journey with a seasoned entrepreneur and Founder of The Nudge Group, Steve Grace. Join us as Steve shares invaluable insights gained from his ventures, delving into the critical elements of perseverance, passion, and financial wisdom that have shaped his path to success.
 
Key Highlights
Foundational Years: Steve reflects on the early years of entrepreneurship, emphasizing the significant difference between short-term expectations and long-term achievements. He shares how perseverance through the initial challenges can lead to substantial growth and success over time.
 
The Nudge Group: Steve provides an inside look into the inception and evolution of The Nudge Group, a pioneering venture at the intersection of recruitment, technology and marketing. Steve highlights how creativity, passion and vision propel success in the competitive landscape. 
 
Facing Fears: Steve candidly discusses overcoming fears and stepping out of comfort zones as essential components of personal and professional development. From public speaking to Wing Foil, he shares how confronting fears can lead to unexpected growth and fulfilment.
 
Embracing Creativity: Despite initial reservations, Steve discovered a passion for creative pursuits like podcasting, public speaking, and writing. He discusses the positive impact of embracing creativity on confidence, communication skills, and overall business success.
 
Future Ventures: Teasing an upcoming project, Steve hints at a new business venture on the horizon. With excitement and anticipation, he shares insights into the process of innovation, collaboration, and the thrill of pursuing new opportunities.
 
As our conversation draws to a close, Steve leaves listeners with profound words of wisdom gleaned from his entrepreneurial odyssey, particularly through his experiences with The Nudge Group. He emphasizes the importance of perseverance, passion, and innovation as indispensable pillars of success in the dynamic world of entrepreneurship. 
 
Connect with Steve: LinkedIn
The Nudge Group: Website | LinkedIn | Instagram 
Balance The Grind: Website | LinkedIn | Instagram 
Connect with Kirsty Gee:  LinkedIn |  Instagram.

Unveiling the Entrepreneurial Odyssey: A Conversation with Barratt Kennett

Unveiling the Entrepreneurial Odyssey: A Conversation with Barratt Kennett
(Leadership Odysseys Host:Kirsty Ghahramani)
In this episode of Leadership Odysseys, host Kirsty explores the remarkable journey of Barratt, a former mixed martial arts champion turned entrepreneur. Barratt shares insights from his diverse career path, highlighting the pivotal role of resilience, passion, and a strong sense of purpose in overcoming challenges and achieving success.
Key Highlights:
Early Foundations: Barratt reflects on his journey from a career in mixed martial arts to the challenging world of entrepreneurship. Despite facing setbacks, Barratt discovered a newfound passion for writing during a career break, leading to the creation of two fiction books before venturing into nonfiction.
The Genesis of Bestselling Book: Barratt's latest bestseller, focusing on leadership in sales, emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic. He emphasizes the importance of real-life experience and authenticity in both his writing and speaking engagements, offering practical advice and strategies from his own trials and triumphs in the sales industry.
The Power of Authenticity: Drawing from his experiences, Barratt emphasizes the importance of authenticity and meaningful connections in leadership and sales. He credits his faith as a driving force behind his resilience and success, highlighting the transformative power of passion, perseverance, and purpose.
Balancing Act: Barratt's unconventional journey includes balancing his roles as an MMA champion by day and a stripper by night. This unique blend of experiences has contributed to his multifaceted approach to life and business, shaping his perspective on resilience, discipline, and embracing diverse opportunities.
Barratt's odyssey serves as a testament to the transformative power of passion, perseverance, and purpose. From navigating the challenges of the sales industry to embracing the unexpected twists of fate, his journey underscores the importance of staying true to oneself and finding strength in adversity. As he continues to inspire others through his writing and speaking engagements, Barratt's story reminds us that success is not just about reaching the destination but about embracing the journey with courage and conviction.
 
Connect with Barratt:  LinkedIn | Instagram 
EFCOMM: Website | LinkedIn | Instagram
Connect with Kirsty Gee:  LinkedIn |  Instagram.
Sponsorship: Naturally Glutenfree website

Unleashing your potential with Terry Hawkins

Unleashing Your Potential with Terry Hawkins 
(Leadership Odysseys Host: Kirsty Ghahramani)
In this episode, we had the privilege of diving deep into the remarkable journey and insights of Terry Hawkins, a renowned speaker, author, and founder of Ignite Humans. From her early experiences to her profound philosophy on personal growth and leadership, Terry shared invaluable wisdom that resonates with anyone seeking inspiration and empowerment.
 
Key Highlights:
 
The Evolution of a Visionary Leader: Terry recounted her journey from humble beginnings to becoming a sought-after speaker and founder of Ignite Humans. Her story is a testament to resilience, determination, and unwavering commitment to personal and professional growth.
 
Pit and Flip: Transforming Mindsets: Through her engaging characters Pit and Flip, Terry elucidated the power of mindset transformation. By understanding and navigating the pitfalls of negative thinking, individuals can flip their perspectives and embrace positive change.
 
The Importance of Self-Discovery: Terry emphasized the significance of knowing oneself and embracing self-love. True growth and empowerment stem from within, and Terry's insights shed light on the profound impact of falling in love with oneself.
 
Stronger Together: Building Meaningful Connections: Reflecting on her experiences with audiences and clients, Terry highlighted the value of collaboration and connection. By fostering authentic relationships and leveraging collective strengths, individuals and organizations can achieve greater success.
 
Terry Hawkins' journey is a testament to the transformative power of self-discovery, resilience, and authentic leadership. Her insights inspire us to embrace our potential, cultivate positive mindsets, and foster meaningful connections in our personal and professional lives. As we navigate our own paths, let us remember Terry's words: "Know thyself, fall in love with yourself, and remember, we are stronger together”.
 
Connect with Terry: LinkedIn | Instagram | Website 
Ignite Humans: Website | LinkedIn | Instagram 
Connect with Kirsty Gee:  LinkedIn |  Instagram.
Sponsorship: Naturally Glutenfree website

Celebrating 50 Years in Media with Ron Wilson

Celebrating 50 Years in Media with Ron Wilson (Host Kirsty Ghahramani )
Join host Kirsty on a special episode of Leadership Odysseys as she delves into the extraordinary 50-year career of media icon Ron Wilson. From his humble beginnings to his role as a seasoned journalist whose very name and distinctive voice resonated in households across Australia during his 34-year tenure presenting the news, Ron's story is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and unwavering leadership in the dynamic world of Australian media.
Ron's odyssey commences with foundational years shaped by personal and professional challenges, notably the profound impact of Cyclone Tracy. Despite enduring hardships, Ron's unwavering resilience propelled him forward, fostering deep empathy and understanding for others facing adversity.
Throughout his career, Ron emphasizes the importance of genuine connections and leading from the front. He shares invaluable insights on navigating the challenges of small business ownership, emphasizing flexibility, resilience, and the importance of seeking assistance when needed. Ron's commitment to living in the moment and finding joy in both work and personal life serves as a powerful reminder to embrace each day with gratitude and purpose.
Ron's remarkable journey inspires aspiring leaders, founders, and communicators entering the media world. His legacy transcends headlines, underscoring the transformative power of storytelling and the enduring impact of genuine human connection. As Ron continues to navigate life's adventures, his wisdom and insights will undoubtedly shape the future of the media landscape.
Connect with Ron: LinkedIn | facebook 
 
Connect with Kirsty Gee:  LinkedIn |  Instagram.
Sponsorship: Naturally Glutenfree website

Revolutionizing Talent Acquisition with Jo Harris, Co-Founder & CEO of Stevie

In this episode of Leadership Odysseys, host Kirsty engages in a dynamic conversation with Jo, the visionary CEO behind Stevie, a groundbreaking platform revolutionizing talent acquisition. Jo's journey from her formative years to founding Hunting for George and now Stevie is a testament to her entrepreneurial spirit, resilience, and commitment to creating meaningful connections. Through insightful anecdotes and candid reflections, Jo shares the driving force behind Stevie's mission and her unwavering dedication to reshaping the recruitment landscape.
 
Key Highlights:
 
From Nurse to Entrepreneur: Jo's journey began as a nurse, where she honed her skills in empathy and communication. Her transition to entrepreneurship marked the inception of Hunting for George, an innovative online homeware store, showcasing Jo's versatility and passion for creating impactful ventures.
 
The Genesis of Stevie: Inspired by her own experiences and fueled by a desire to revolutionise talent acquisition, Jo embarked on a new journey with Stevie. By leveraging her network and prioritising authentic connections, Jo set out to redefine the recruitment process.
 
Authenticity in Recruitment: Jo emphasizes the importance of authenticity and meaningful conversations in recruitment, steering away from traditional noise and focusing on genuine connections. With Stevie, individuals have the opportunity to express their true selves, leading to more aligned opportunities.
 
Community Building: From beta testing to refining the platform based on user feedback, Jo underscores the significance of building a vibrant community around Stevie. Through continuous learning and adaptation, Stevie evolves to meet the needs of its users, fostering a culture of collaboration and growth.
 
The Role of Advisory Boards: Jo's strategic decision to assemble an advisory board for Stevie reflects her commitment to seeking guidance and expertise. By surrounding herself with industry experts, Jo ensures Stevie remains at the forefront of innovation in talent acquisition.
Jo's remarkable journey from nurse to entrepreneur to CEO of Stevie exemplifies the transformative power of passion, perseverance, and community. Her unwavering dedication to authenticity and meaningful connections has not only shaped her success but also revolutionized the way individuals and businesses approach talent acquisition. As Stevie continues to flourish and evolve, Jo remains steadfast in her mission to create a platform where genuine connections thrive, driving positive change in the recruitment landscape. 
 
Connect with Jo: LinkedIn 
Stevie: LinkedIn | Website | Instagram 
Connect with Kirsty Gee:  LinkedIn |  Instagram.
Sponsorship: Naturally Glutenfree website

Reshaping Small Business Lending with Yanir Yakutiel

Reshaping Small Business Lending with Yanir Yakutiel
In this insightful episode of "The Leadership Odysseys Podcast," we delve into the entrepreneurial journey of Yanir Yakutiel, the visionary founder and CEO of Lumi, as he shares his experiences and perspectives on reshaping small business lending. From his formative years, marked by a unique blend of military service and academic excellence, to the strategic growth of Lumi, Yanir's story unfolds with lessons for aspiring entrepreneurs and leaders. Discover how his foundations have shaped him and learn about the pivotal role of culture in fostering success at Lumi.
Key Takeaways:
Military and Academic Fusion: Yanir's early years, combining military service and academic achievements, laid the groundwork for his resilient and disciplined approach to entrepreneurship.
Cultural Cornerstone: A flat organizational structure and a strong emphasis on leading by example form the cultural cornerstone at Lumi. Yanir sheds light on the importance of building a robust team and fostering an open and welcoming work environment.
Navigating Challenges: The episode explores how Lumi navigated challenges during the COVID-19 pandemic, the significance of maintaining a positive workplace culture, and the resilience required to lead a startup through uncertain times.
Strategic Funding: Gain insights into Lumi's strategic approach to funding, including equity, debt, and the pursuit of institutional investors. Discover the importance of timing and luck in the capital-raising journey.
Lumi's Role in the Market: Explore the unique position Lumi holds in reshaping small business lending. Uncover how Lumi is making a difference in the market, offering innovative solutions and challenging traditional norms in the lending landscape.
Vision for 2024: Yanir shares his ambitious vision for Lumi in 2024, highlighting the company's focus on growth, new product offerings, and strategic positioning in the lending landscape.
As Yanir Yakutiel reshapes small business lending with innovation and determination, his journey serves as a beacon for those navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship. From instilling a unique company culture to strategically approaching funding and embracing the mantra of progress over perfection, Yanir's insights offer valuable lessons for leaders at every stage. Join us in this compelling episode as we uncover the dynamic story of Yanir Yakutiel and the transformative journey of Lumi.
Connect with Yanir Yakutiel: LinkedIn  
Connect with Lumi: Website | LinkedIn
Connect with Kirsty Gee:  LinkedIn |  Instagram.
Sponsorship: Naturally Glutenfree website

A Journey to Empowerment & Authenticity with Kat John

A Journey to Empowerment & Authenticity with Kat John
Welcome to another episode of Leadership Odysseys! In today's inspiring conversation, host Kirsty introduces us to the incredible Kat John, a transformational coach, speaker, and founder of the ZEROFKS movement. Kat shares her journey of self-discovery, the power of authenticity, and how she's leading a movement of realness and resilience.
Key Takeaways:
Embracing Authenticity: Kat emphasizes the importance of staying true to oneself, despite societal expectations. She shares personal stories of breaking free from the constraints of social norms and discovering the power of authenticity.
ZEROFKS Movement: Kat introduces the ZEROFKS movement, a platform that encourages individuals to embrace vulnerability, face their fears, and live authentically. She discusses the impact of the Zero Fox dance parties and the Sunday Meds meditation events in creating a supportive community.
The Power of Meditation: Meditation plays a crucial role in Kat's life and leadership journey. She discusses how meditation helps her tap into intuition, make important decisions, and stay grounded. The Sunday Meds events, combining meditation and storytelling, have become a transformative experience for many.
Leadership Wisdom: Kat shares valuable leadership lessons, including the importance of self-responsibility and being a channel for guidance, not just from you, but through you. Her leadership legacy revolves around being an embodied example of authenticity, giving others permission to be themselves.
Recommended Reading: Kat suggests the book "Essentialism" by Greg McKeon as a valuable resource for leaders, emphasizing the importance of simplicity and focusing on what truly matters.
Kat's journey is a testament to the transformative power of authenticity. Her leadership style revolves around embracing vulnerability, staying true to oneself, and inspiring others to do the same. Join us on this odyssey of self-discovery and leadership growth with Kat John.
Tune in on January 16th:
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6OgNCGRlPyZqAa56hb1PHd 
Apple:
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/leadership-odysseys/id1713116471 
Connect with Kat John: LinkedIn | Instagram  | Website 
Connect with Kirsty:  LinkedIn |  Instagram.
Sponsorship: Naturally Glutenfree website

Lissy Abrahams on ‘Nurturing Your Relationship with Yourself’

In this insightful episode of Leadership Odysseys, we dive deep into the realm of self-discovery and building a healthier relationship with oneself. Our guest, Lissy Abrahams, a renowned expert in personal development and relationships, shares her wealth of wisdom and insights. From the early influences that shaped her perspective to the powerful lessons learned through personal experiences, Lissy guides us through the intricacies of understanding and nurturing the most important relationship we have – the one with ourselves. 
Episode Highlights:
Early Influences on Life's Preciousness: Lissy Abrahams reflects on the profound impact of a family friend's untimely death at the age of 38, instilling in her a deep awareness of life's preciousness from a young age.
The Role of Self-Awareness: The discussion explores the pivotal role of self-awareness in nurturing a healthy mindset, emphasizing the importance of understanding oneself for personal development.
Navigating Personal Challenges: Lissy shares her personal journey, including the challenges of supporting her family through the loss of her stepdad to cancer. The conversation touches on the delicate balance of supporting others while acknowledging one's own needs.
Self-Mastery and Accountability: Insights into the concept of self-mastery and the significance of taking personal accountability for one's actions are shared. Practical tips are provided for individuals seeking self-improvement.
The Power of Mindset Choices: Lissy emphasizes the transformative power of choosing one's mindset and approach to life, illustrating the impact of conscious choices on personal growth and resilience.
Advice for Future Leaders: The episode concludes with Lissy's profound advice for the next generation of leaders, urging them to recognize life's preciousness, make mindful choices, and understand the profound impact of those choices on themselves and others.
As the episode draws to a close, it leaves listeners with a wealth of insights to ponder and integrate into their lives. Lissy Abrahams' message resonates as a powerful resource for growth, understanding, and empowerment. The conversation transcends the boundaries of personal development, offering a roadmap for building resilience, fostering self-compassion, and creating a life marked by conscious choices. Leadership Odysseys extends heartfelt gratitude to Lissy Abrahams for sharing her transformative perspectives on building a thriving relationship with oneself.
Connect with Lissy: LinkedIn | Instagram |Website
Purchase her book: Relationship Reset 
Connect with Kirsty:  LinkedIn |  Instagram.
Sponsor: Naturally Glutenfree website