Leadership Odysseys
Whether you are a seasoned entrepreneur, a founder of a startup, or a leader climbing the corporate ladder, this podcast is for you. Leadership Odysseys has been born out of a deep desire to uncover the stories that often go untold - those journeys filled with ups and downs, challenges and triumphs. So much of leadership happens behind the scenes, and it’s time to share real advice from genuine leaders at all levels. We’re diving into the heart of leadership to create a future filled with purpose and authenticity. My mission is truly simple: it’s about inspiring, empowering, and transforming the next generation of leaders. It’s up to all of us to bridge the gap between aspiration and reality, showcasing that leadership is an ongoing odyssey of self-discovery and transformative impact. So join your Host Kirsty Ghahramani on this incredible Odyssey at @kirsty.gee so together we can create something extraordinary! Remember to lead with courage, lead with heart, and keep exploring the remarkable world of leadership. Enjoyed the journey? - Hit the subscribe button, rate us, and leave a review if our stories ignited your leadership spirit. Your feedback fuels our odyssey.
Episodes
Tuesday Mar 12, 2024
Tuesday Mar 12, 2024
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
Tuesday Feb 27, 2024
Tuesday Feb 27, 2024
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
Tuesday Feb 13, 2024
Tuesday Feb 13, 2024
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
Tuesday Jan 23, 2024
Tuesday Jan 23, 2024
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
Tuesday Jan 16, 2024
Tuesday Jan 16, 2024
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
Tuesday Jan 09, 2024
Tuesday Jan 09, 2024
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
Tuesday Jan 02, 2024
Tuesday Jan 02, 2024
Navigating a Purpose-Led Journey with Anthony Chesler Kirsty Ghahramani, Leadership
In this insightful episode of the Leadership Odysseys podcast, we embark on a journey through the life and leadership of Anthony Chesler, the visionary leader at the helm of Thread Together. Delve into the early influences that have shaped Anthony's values and commitment to creating positive change in the world.
Highlights:
Early Influences: Dive into Anthony's formative years and discover the early influences that laid the foundation for his values and commitment to positive change.
Leadership Philosophy: Anthony shares his unique leadership philosophy, rooted in values such as compassion, courage, humility, respect, and innovation. Learn how these principles shape his approach to leadership.
Passion for Positive Change: Explore the pivotal moments and experiences that ignited Anthony's passion for making a tangible difference in the lives of vulnerable individuals.
Thread Together's Impact: Gain insights into Thread Together's evolution under Anthony's guidance, having clothed nearly 700,000 people across Australia in the last decade. Uncover the role of empathy in the organization's success.
Challenges and Triumphs: Join the conversation as Anthony reflects on the challenges and triumphs encountered along the way, providing valuable lessons for aspiring leaders.
Creating a Culture of Contribution: Understand Anthony's focus on contribution and the creation of a culture where every team member is empowered to lead and contribute their unique skills.
Innovative Initiatives: Explore the sustainable practices and innovative initiatives employed by Thread Together, including repurposing clothing and transforming landfill materials into vital resources.
Join us in this odyssey of leadership as we unravel the story of navigating a purpose-led journey with Anthony Chesler. His inspiring tale serves as a beacon for aspiring leaders, illustrating the profound impact that purpose, authenticity, and empathy can have on shaping a brighter future.
Connect with Anthony: LinkedIn
Thread Together: LinkedIn | Website | Instagram | Facebook | Volunteer
Book Reference: The Leader Who Had No Title by Robin Sharma
Connect with Kirsty: LinkedIn | Instagram.
Sponsor: Naturally Glutenfree website
Tuesday Dec 26, 2023
Tuesday Dec 26, 2023
Leadership Odysseys: A Gratitude-filled Reflection
Happy Holidays to our Leadership Odysseys community!
A Labour of Love: Launching Leadership Odysseys has been a true labour of love. Kirsty reflects on her passion for leadership mastery, nurturing the next generation, and engaging in conversations with exceptional leaders.
Valuable Lessons: The stories shared on this podcast aren't just narratives; they're invaluable lessons shaping the development of future leaders. It's about building resilience, fostering self-accountability, and creating a community that empowers leaders of tomorrow.
Our Mission: At Leadership Odysseys, the mission is simple yet profound: to inspire, empower, and transform the next generation of leaders. "Embrace the Journey" encapsulates the essence of bridging the gap between leadership aspirations and reality.
Raw and Unfiltered: Each episode offers a raw and unfiltered exploration of behind-the-scenes leadership challenges. Stories of resilience, turning points, and authentic human experiences emphasize that greatness is not just a destination but a product of the entire odyssey.
Thank You: To the vibrant community, thank you for your love, support, and active participation. [Your Name] expresses genuine gratitude for the kindness experienced in connecting with leaders across Australia.
Holiday Wishes: As we wrap up this year, let's carry the spirit of inspiration, empowerment, and transformation into the next. Happy holidays to you and your loved ones. Here's to a new year filled with continued growth, meaningful connections, and, of course, many more leadership odysseys.
Connect with Kirsty: LinkedIn | Instagram.
Tuesday Dec 19, 2023
Tuesday Dec 19, 2023
In this captivating episode of Leadership Odysseys, we delve into the life and extraordinary journey of Owen Webb and embark on his journey that has been ‘driven by passion’. From his formative years on a dairy farm, where he discovered his love for cars at a young age, to crafting carriages for the Royal Family, Owen's story is a testament to passion, hard work, and the transformative power of community. Kirsty Ghahramani
Episode Highlights:
Growing Up on a Dairy Farm:
Owen's early life on a dairy farm and the influence of rural surroundings on his love for cars.
How driving on the farm at a young age sparked his fascination with automobiles.
Early Days in the Automotive World
Owen shares his beginnings in the automotive industry and the pivotal moments that shaped his early career.
The importance of mentors and the valuable lessons learned from those who guided him.
Crafting Carriages for the Royal Family
The unexpected opportunity that led Owen to paint a carriage for the Royal Family.
Working alongside Jim Fretlington and presenting a carriage to Queen Elizabeth—an unforgettable experience.
Details about the craftsmanship, including the incorporation of historic pieces into the carriage.
Mentoring and Passing on Skills
The significance of passing on traditional skills in blacksmithing, woodwork, and heraldic art.
Owen's commitment to mentoring and the joy of working with the next generation of craftsmen.
Charity Work and Making a Difference
Owen's involvement in various charitable initiatives, including a surfboard competition for a Cambodian orphanage.
Reflections on the impact of giving back and the importance of purpose in charitable endeavors.
Insights into the "Rusted Gems" project in Alice Springs and its potential to make a significant difference in communities.
Facing Adversity and Bouncing Back
Owen's perspective on adversity and the importance of bouncing back.
Personal experiences, including health challenges, and the role of positivity in overcoming obstacles.
Words of Wisdom and Making a Positive Impact
Owen's guiding principles: treating others as you want to be treated, considering the consequences of actions, and doing good to receive good in return.
Encouragement for aspiring leaders to identify their strengths, choose causes they're passionate about, and leverage their skills to make a positive impact.
Owen Webb's extraordinary journey exemplifies the power of passion, resilience, and community. From the rural landscapes of a dairy farm to creating carriages fit for royalty and mentoring the next generation, Owen's story is an inspiration for anyone aspiring to make a meaningful difference in the world.
Connect with Owen: Instagram | LinkedIn
Rusted Gems: Website
Connect with Kirsty: LinkedIn | Instagram.
Sponsor: Naturally Glutenfree: website
Tuesday Dec 12, 2023
Tuesday Dec 12, 2023
In this episode of Leadership Odysseys, we are privileged to delve into the philanthropic leadership journey of Bruno, a distinguished leader who seamlessly combines a successful corporate career with a passion for making a meaningful impact on society. Join us as we explore the values, experiences, and insights that have shaped Bruno's extraordinary leadership path. Kirsty Ghahramani
Episode Highlights:
Early Influences and Values:
Bruno shares insights into his early life and the values instilled in him by his family.
Learn about the significance of values like integrity, humility, and discipline in shaping Bruno's leadership style.
Balancing Corporate Leadership and Philanthropy:
Discover how Bruno manages to balance a robust corporate career with his deep commitment to philanthropy.
Explore the importance of setting clear goals and aligning personal values with professional pursuits.
Leadership Beyond the Boardroom:
Bruno emphasizes the impact of leadership extending beyond organizational boundaries.
Hear about the values that Bruno instills in his own family and how they serve as a guiding force in personal life.
Five Core Family Values:
Bruno shares the five fundamental values that form the cornerstone of his family's principles.
Explore the simplicity and depth of these values, from love and spirituality to giving one's best and treating others with respect.
Balancing Life's Pillars:
Gain insights into Bruno's approach to life, which he views through six essential pillars.
Understand the importance of health, family, finance, spirituality, community engagement, and continuous learning in a balanced life.
Servant Leadership and Personal Development:
Bruno delves into the concept of servant leadership and its pivotal role in organizational success.
Learn about the importance of self-awareness and personal development in becoming an effective leader.
Tour De Cure: A Philanthropic Journey:
Explore Bruno's involvement and Leadership with Tour De Cure, a philanthropic initiative dedicated to raising funds for cancer research.
Learn about the organization's mission, impact, and the collective effort of volunteers and corporate partners.
Tour De Cure Achievements:
Delve into Tour De Cure impressive journey, raising over $114 million for cancer projects.
Understand the triple-A approach: Awareness, Ambassadors, and Achievements, driving Tour De Cure’s success.
Legacy and Recognition:
Bruno reflects on the significance of leaving a positive legacy through philanthropy.
Discover Bruno's thoughts on receiving the Order of Australia Medal (OAM) and the importance of humility in leadership.
Lessons for Future Leaders:
Bruno imparts valuable lessons for emerging leaders, focusing on faith, hope, and love.
Explore the importance of self-reflection, seeking feedback, and the underestimated power of mentorship.
As we conclude this episode, Bruno leaves us with a profound message on the essence of leadership—faith, hope, and love. His journey exemplifies the transformative impact of purpose-driven leadership and the boundless possibilities when leadership extends beyond the boardroom.
Connect with Bruno: LinkedIn
Tour De Cure: Instagram, LinkedIn, Website
CGL Retail Services: Website | LinkedIn
Clemenger Group: LinkedIn | Website
Clemenger Group Field Marketing: LinkedIn | Website
Connect with Kirsty: LinkedIn | Instagram.
Ads: Naturally Glutenfree website
Thinking.......
"You learn nothing from success. Nothing. You learn everything from failures... Success happens from failing hundreds of times" - Ed Sheeran |