Become a Global Leader

Episodes

• 
  204 - Visibility is Choice plus Action 30.10.2026 20m

  Confidence is sometimes treated as something some people naturally possess and others do not. But after speaking to almost 100 women on a stage earlier this month about why talented and experienced professionals still stay invisible, I share in this episode why we need to start rethinking confidence and visibility. In this solo episode, we explore how visibility has to be connected to your personal goals, why confidence is not a personality type and why hard work alone is not a visibility strategy.  I share more of my own personal journey with confidence and visibility, from the early days in my career avoiding presentations and the spotlight, to regularly speaking on stages and giving keynotes today, and what made the difference to help break through the visibility barriers.   What you will learn in this episode: Why there is no single formula for visibility Defining your personal visibility code How to grow your confidence level to become more visible Why hard work is not a visibility strategy  How culture shapes what confidence and visibility look and sound like The importance of saying yes before you're ready Knowing the true impact of your visibility  Where do you want greater influence? Who could benefit if you became more visible? Who misses out if you are not visible? Resources: Listen to the audiobook of Become a Global Leader: https://www.audible.co.uk/pd/Become-a-Global-Leader-Audiobook/B0HGYF1LHR Read the book, Become a Global Leader: https://culturecuppa.com/book/ Follow Victoria on LinkedIn for more global leadership, strategic communication and Cultural Intelligence insights: https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoria-rennoldson Talk to Victoria about your visibility and confidence questions: https://culturecuppa.com/contact/ Watch the video of this Episode here: Visibility is Choice plus Action: https://youtu.be/hZgFIdrdhT0 Read this Episode's Blog post here: Who misses out if you stay invisible?: https://culturecuppa.com/who-misses-out-if-you-stay-invisible/
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  203 - Inclusion- Moving Beyond Good Intentions to Action, with Rob Neil 23.10.2026 46m

  What happens when fear of saying or doing the wrong thing becomes a reason to do nothing? In this conversation with Rob Neil OBE, founder of KA Harrow and long-standing inclusion, Cultural Intelligence and leadership expert, we explore what inclusive leadership asks of leaders and what actions are needed. Sharing this episode in Black History Month in the UK, we explore why inclusion is not a linear journey, how fear of 'getting it wrong' can leave behind silence, and why awareness without action changes very little. Rob shares practical examples from his own work, starting with the 'why' of inclusion initiatives, and sharing what's needed for good intentions to translate into successful implementation. Rob's view is clear- inclusion is not something you complete once, and it cannot sit only at the level of organisational statements, one-off training sessions or awareness. It becomes meaningful when there is curiosity, personal responsibility and action. Born in Paddington to Jamaican parents and raised in the London Borough of Brent, Rob spent 38 years in the Civil Service, working across Justice, Education and Human Rights, before establishing his own consultancy, specialising in developing and encouraging inclusion across sectors. What you will learn: The difference between hearing people and genuinely listening to what they are saying How fear of 'getting inclusion wrong' can create leadership paralysis  Moving inclusion from intention into action Starting with the 'why' to make inclusion work more enduring How involving the people most affected can prevent well-intentioned decisions from landing unsuccessfully Curiosity, humility and action matter more than trying to be perfect Where are you creating more opportunities for diverse views and voices to be listened to? Resources: Learn more about Rob Neil and KA Harrow: https://www.kaharrow.co.uk/about/the-ka-team/rob-neil-obe-profile/ Explore KA Harrow's work on inclusive leadership, Cultural Intelligence and workplace equity: https://www.kaharrow.co.uk/ Explore Black History Month UK 2026 and the theme 'Honouring Our Communities': https://www.blackhistorymonth.org.uk/black-history-month-2026/ https://www.reachsociety.com/ Read or listen to Victoria's book, Become a Global Leader: https://culturecuppa.com/book/ Follow Victoria on LinkedIn for more global leadership, strategic communication and Cultural Intelligence insights: https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoria-rennoldson Watch the video of this Episode here: Inclusion- Moving Beyond Good Intentions to Action, with Rob Neil: https://youtu.be/-TxYj7Vz2YM Read this Episode's Blog post here: When fear of getting inclusion wrong leads to silence and inaction: https://culturecuppa.com/when-fear-of-getting-inclusion-wrong-leads-to-silence-and-inaction/
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  202 - Power and Hierarchy across Cultures 16.10.2026 20m

  What happens when the power structure you see is not the one that matters? Moving into a new role, team, project or department, or even starting a relocation assignment can be deeply disorienting when the 'rules' of influence suddenly seem to change. You may understand the formal hierarchy on paper, yet still find decisions happening elsewhere, unexpected people shaping outcomes, or apparently informal teams operating with strong underlying power structures. In this episode, I explore how Cultural Intelligence can help you observe those invisible power lines, with examples where the organisation chart, job titles and meeting structures did not tell the full story of how influence and decision-making really worked. What you will learn in this episode: Why visible informality does not always mean low hierarchy How Cultural Intelligence can help when familiar professional 'rules' shift Why the organisation chart is not the same as the influence map How to identify the hidden power lines A practical approach to invisible power Navigating decisions that happen outside the meeting structures What could you ask to make the invisible power lines clearer in your workplace? Resources: Talk to Victoria about your team's leadership development: https://culturecuppa.com/contact/ Listen to the audiobook, Become a Global Leader: https://www.audible.co.uk/pd/Become-a-Global-Leader-Audiobook/B0HGYF1LHR Read the print book/ e-book: https://culturecuppa.com/book/ Follow Victoria on LinkedIn for more global leadership, strategic communication and Cultural Intelligence insights: https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoria-rennoldson Watch the video of this Episode here: Power and Hierarchy across Cultures: https://youtu.be/Nui7mPlVU8o Read this Episode's Blog post here: How to Navigate Invisible Power with Cultural Intelligence: https://culturecuppa.com/how-to-navigate-invisible-power-with-cultural-intelligence/
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  201 - Escaping the Leadership Hamster Wheel with Kate Jones 09.10.2026 37m

  What happens when leaders become so focused on speed, delivery and efficiency that they start to become almost machine-like themselves? In this conversation with Kate Jones, founder of Neon and architect of Deeply Human® leadership, we explore why humanity is not the opposite of performance, but one of the conditions that enables people and teams to perform at their best. We discuss what Kate calls the 'hamster wheel' of modern work, where pace, task focus and constant delivery can squeeze out reflection, creativity and meaningful connections and relationships. We also explore how leaders can create connection in remote and global teams, and why care is something people need to experience, not simply an intention. Kate's challenge is clear - demonstrating high levels of humanity as a leader does not mean accepting lower standards or weaker performance. Leaders can make tough decisions, expect high performance and still lead with care, connection and compassion. Kate Jones brings 30 years of experience in leadership, organisational culture and change, including 20 years across social work and corporate consulting before founding Neon in 2013. Her work focuses on helping purpose-led organisations build leadership capability without losing the human qualities that create trust, connection and wellbeing. What you will learn: Why humanity and high performance are not opposites How the 'hamster wheel' of work can make leaders increasingly disconnected Why self-awareness is the starting point for more human leadership Focusing on relationships to change the impact of conversations Ways to build genuine connection across remote and global teams Why self-care is a leadership responsibility, not an optional extra How small, everyday choices can communicate care When has the pace made you less connected to the people around you? What are the small ways you could communicate care to your team? Resources: Connect with Kate Jones on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katerjones Learn more about Kate Jones' Deeply Human® leadership work and Neon: https://deeplyneon.com Find all of Kate Jones' links here: https://linktr.ee/katejonesneon Discover your leadership archetype with Kate Jones' quiz: https://neon4.scoreapp.com/ Listen to the audiobook of Become a Global Leader: https://www.audible.co.uk/pd/Become-a-Global-Leader-Audiobook/B0HGYF1LHR Read the book, Become a Global Leader: https://culturecuppa.com/book/ Follow Victoria on LinkedIn for more global leadership, strategic communication and Cultural Intelligence insights: https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoria-rennoldson Talk to Victoria about you or your team's leadership development: https://culturecuppa.com/contact/ Watch the video of this Episode here: Escaping the Leadership Hamster Wheel with Kate Jones: https://youtu.be/mzJA5H0icuQ Read this Episode's Blog post here: Humanity is the Leadership Advantage: https://culturecuppa.com/humanity-is-the-leadership-advantage/
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  200 - 6 Leadership Ideas from 200 Episodes 02.10.2026 21m

  What can 200 conversations teach us about leadership? This is a very special episode, celebrating 4 years and 200 episodes of the podcast. When I started, the show was called Cultural Communication Confidence and every episode was solo. Since then, the podcast, my work and my own thinking have evolved, shaping not only the topics we explore here, but the questions we have been asking the guests who have joined us. For this very special episode 200, I look back at 6 ideas from recent conversations that have stuck in my head, and I believe deeply matter to leaders now. Very different perspectives and ideas from a range of guest experts and leaders, but one thought connects them all- being a human leader. What we explore in this episode: Why leadership is an apprenticeship Are we outsourcing too much judgement to AI Courageous leadership under pressure How to create impact without simply becoming louder What your ego may be trying to protect you from Listening and silence in multicultural teams  Which idea most changes your perspective? Resources: Explore more podcast episodes: https://culturecuppa.com/podcast Listen to the audiobook: https://www.audible.co.uk/pd/Become-a-Global-Leader-Audiobook/B0HGYF1LHR Read the book: https://culturecuppa.com/book/ Follow Victoria on LinkedIn for more global leadership, strategic communication and Cultural Intelligence insights: https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoria-rennoldson Talk to Victoria about you or your team's leadership growth: https://culturecuppa.com/contact/ Listen to the full guest episodes: Leadership is an Apprenticeship with Helen Brocklebank - https://culturecuppa.com/podcasts/188-leadership-is-an-apprenticeship-with-helen-brocklebank/ Are you outsourcing your judgement to AI? with Rahim Hirji - https://culturecuppa.com/podcasts/192-are-you-outsourcing-your-judgement-to-ai-with-rahim-hirji/ The Courage to Lead with Humanity, with Diana Osagie - https://culturecuppa.com/podcasts/196-the-courage-to-lead-with-humanity-with-diana-osagie/ Unique is Better than Better, Impactful Communication with Andrea Wojnicki - https://culturecuppa.com/podcasts/178-unique-is-better-than-better-impactful-communication-with-andrea-wojnicki/ Ego in Leadership with Mary Gregory - https://culturecuppa.com/podcasts/163-ego-in-leadership-with-mary-gregory/ Cultural Intelligence, From Knowledge to Action, with Lucy Butters - https://culturecuppa.com/podcasts/167-cultural-intelligence-from-knowledge-to-action-with-lucy-butters/ Watch the video of this Episode here: 6 Leadership Ideas from 200 Episodes - https://youtu.be/BUQ1lKBHuqo Read this Episode's Blog post here: 6 leadership ideas from 200 episodes - https://culturecuppa.com/6-leadership-ideas-from-200-episodes/
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  199 - The Non-Verbal Behaviours Shaping Trust with Jude Jennison 25.09.2026 32m

  What are you communicating before you even say a word? In this conversation with Jude Jennison, founder of Leaders by Nature, we explore how unconscious non-verbal behaviour shapes trust, relationships and leadership impact. Jude spent 17 years at IBM before developing her methodology that uses horses to reveal the behaviours leaders may not realise they are bringing into their professional relationships.  We discuss how stress, fear and past experiences can influence behaviour, especially during uncertainty, even when leaders believe they are presenting as calm and confident. She shares why horses are so powerful at revealing incongruence between what we feel and what we project, and how this can expose patterns around trust, control, compassion and clarity. Jude has coached more than 5,000 leaders, written 3 leadership books, and describes horses as the most honest feedback mechanism leaders can engage in. What you will learn: How unconscious behaviours affect leadership impact Why uncertainty amplifies unhelpful default patterns What your non-verbal behaviour reveals about trust and psychological safety in your team The way to give and receive feedback without judgement  The changes that can shift a difficult relationship How aware are you of what you communicate non-verbally when under pressure? Resources: Connect with Jude Jennison on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/judejennison/ Learn more about Jude's leadership work with horses: https://www.leadersbynature.com Read Jude's books, 'Leading through uncertainty' and 'OPUS: The Hidden Dynamics of Team Performance': https://www.leadersbynature.com/books Listen to the new audiobook of Become a Global Leader: https://www.audible.co.uk/pd/Become-a-Global-Leader-Audiobook/B0HGYF1LHR Read the book, Become a Global Leader:https://culturecuppa.com/book/ Follow Victoria on LinkedIn for more global leadership, strategic communication and Cultural Intelligence insights: https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoria-rennoldson Talk to Victoria about you or your team's leadership development: https://culturecuppa.com/contact/ Watch the video of this Episode here: The Non-Verbal Behaviours Shaping Trust with Jude Jennison: https://youtu.be/UAgi8ys4tWA Read this Episode's Blog post here: What are you Communicating Unconsciously? https://culturecuppa.com/what-are-you-communicating-unconsciously/
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  198 - The Human Capabilities Leaders Need Now 18.09.2026 20m

  What kind of leader do you need to become now? Leadership has not stood still over the last 12 months. AI is accelerating, workplace expectations are shifting and organisations are navigating growing uncertainty. So this episode explores a deeper question for ambitious professionals - not only what do you want to achieve, but who do you need to become? I reflect on why human capabilities matter even more now, especially confidence, clarity, Cultural Intelligence and challenging conversations, the four pillars at the heart of my work. Plus, in this episode, I share the latest thinking behind the audiobook edition of Become a Global Leader, including why I recorded a new bonus chapter. What you will learn in this episode: The leadership shift from 'what you need to achieve' to 'who you need to become' How AI makes human leadership capabilities more important A new definition for confidence in this context How leaders can create clarity when answers are uncertain How Cultural Intelligence helps leaders develop greater range to respond What recording an audiobook taught me about being human Where do you need to experiment more? Which human capability do you most need to focus on? Resources: Listen to the new audiobook of Become a Global Leader: https://www.audible.co.uk/pd/Become-a-Global-Leader-Audiobook/B0HGYF1LHR Read the book, Become a Global Leader: https://culturecuppa.com/book/ Follow Victoria on LinkedIn for more global leadership, strategic communication and Cultural Intelligence insights: https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoria-rennoldson Talk to Victoria about you or your team's leadership development: https://culturecuppa.com/contact/ Watch the video of this Episode here: The Human Capabilities Leaders Need Now: https://youtu.be/9yRSNVf_TnE Read this Episode's Blog post here: Who do you need to become as a leader? https://culturecuppa.com/who-do-you-need-to-become-as-a-leader/
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  197 - How to Influence without Authority, with Laura Sellers 11.09.2026 34m

  What does it really take to influence when you do not have formal authority? In this conversation with Laura Sellers, global executive and team coach for Procurement professionals, we explore why influence, confidence and relationship-building are essential leadership capabilities for professionals who want to elevate their impact across an organisation.  Laura shares why introverted energy is not a barrier to influence or leadership presence, and how some of the most impactful leaders are not the loudest in the room, but those who choose their moment, build strong relationships and communicate with intention. We discuss the shift many professionals need to make as they become more senior, moving from technical expertise into relationship-based influence. This is especially important when you are influencing without authority, working across functions, collaborating remotely or navigating cultural differences. What you will learn in this episode: Why introverted energy can be a strength in leadership and influence How to challenge narrow ideas of what confidence should look like Ethical influence is not manipulation Why relationships are central to influencing without authority 'What does good look like?'- a simple question for complex dynamics How the drama triangle can help you understand conflict patterns Bringing more of yourself into your leadership  How does your natural communication style help you influence, and where might it need to flex? Before you step into a difficult conversation, what role could you be playing in the relationship dynamic? What part of yourself might you be leaving behind when you communicate in a different culture, language or context? Resources: Connect with Laura Sellers on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/laura-sellers/ Visit Laura Sellers' website: https://www.coachingforprocurement.co.uk/ Buy Victoria's book, Become a Global Leader:https://culturecuppa.com/book/ Follow Victoria on LinkedIn for more strategies, ideas and inspiration: https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoria-rennoldson Watch the video of this Episode here: How to Influence without Authority, with Laura Sellers: https://culturecuppa.com/podcasts/197-how-to-influence-without-authority-with-laura-sellers/ Read this Episode's Blog post here: Why influence starts with relationships: https://culturecuppa.com/why-influence-starts-with-relationships/
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  196 - The Courage to Lead with Humanity, with Diana Osagie 04.09.2026 39m

  Courageous leadership is often misunderstood as being bold, forceful or unafraid.  In this conversation with Diana Osagie, leadership coach, trainer, consultant, author and keynote speaker, we explore a much more human definition of courage at work. Diana's core idea is that courageous leadership means staying human when the situation is challenging you to become something else. Under pressure, many leaders revert to the habits that keep them safe, but those habits may not be what the team or organisation needs. She challenges us to consider whether we care enough to hold up the mirror, tell the truth and help people do excellent work, even when that may feel uncomfortable. Diana also introduces Juggernaut Thinking, her approach to helping leaders and organisations build deeper clarity around what they are for, how they behave under pressure and what they need to stop carrying. Diana is the founder of Courageous Leadership Consultancy and The Academy of Women's Leadership. With 26 years' experience leading secondary education, she brings deep practical insight into leading under pressure, alongside her work as an author of five books on leadership. What you will learn in this episode: How pressure can push leaders into unhelpful habit patterns What it means to stay human when leadership feels difficult What professional love encompasses, and how it supports accountability The role of clean motivations in difficult conversations The cultural dynamics in courageous conversations  A practical structure for speaking truth to power with respect Diana's framework, Juggernaut Thinking  What habits do you default to under pressure? How comfortable are you holding your team truly accountable? What does courageous leadership look like to you? Resources: Connect with Diana Osagie on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/diana-osagie Visit Diana Osagie's website: https://www.courageousleadership.co.uk/ Buy Diana Osagie's book: Courageous Leadership: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Courageous-Leadership-quash-tummy-butter/dp/1527249182 Buy Diana Osagie's book: Juggernaut Thinking: https://www.courageousleadership.co.uk/services/juggernaut-thinking/ Buy Victoria's book, Become a Global Leader: https://culturecuppa.com/book/ Follow Victoria on LinkedIn for more strategies, ideas and inspiration: https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoria-rennoldson Watch the video of this Episode here: The Courage to Lead with Humanity, with Diana Osagie - https://culturecuppa.com/podcasts/196-the-courage-to-lead-with-humanity-with-diana-osagie Read this Episode's Blog post here: Stay Human as a Leader when under Pressure - https://culturecuppa.com/stay-human-as-a-leader-when-under-pressure/
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  195 - Why Great Work Does Not Speak For Itself 28.08.2026 26m

  What if your great work is not seen? Many ambitious professionals believe that if they do excellent work, deliver results and make a meaningful contribution, their impact will naturally be noticed.  It is a belief that often is born from integrity, modesty and a strong work ethic, sometimes from cultural norms, yet as you move towards more senior levels, this belief can quietly hold you back. In this episode, I explore why great work is not always the same as visible impact, and why taking responsibility for your positioning is not about ego, arrogance or self-promotion. This is a challenge I see often with high-performing experienced professionals. You could be solving problems before they escalate, joining the dots across complexity, influencing behind the scenes, and using your skills to move projects forward. Yet much of that contribution can remain invisible, especially to stakeholders outside your immediate team. If you are preparing for your next promotion, stepping into a broader leadership role or aiming to be seen as more strategic, waiting to be noticed is not a strategy, visibility and positioning are both key.  What you will learn in this episode: Why great work does not always speak for itself How invisible work can limit recognition, influence and career progression Why you might feel uncomfortable talking about your impact The difference between self-promotion and strategic positioning How to articulate the value you create to the 'right people'  A three-part structure to talk about your leadership impact This episode is especially relevant if you are capable but unseen, experienced but still doubting yourself, or wondering why your hard work is not creating the career momentum you hoped for. This is an important reminder that excellence needs to be visible in the right rooms, how much of your real value could sit in the work others never see, and how your hard work could need translating into visible leadership impact.  Where are you still hoping your work will speak for itself? What value are you creating that people may not fully see yet? How could you make your thinking and contribution more visible this week? Resources: Explore Victoria's book, Become a Global Leader. Get your copy:https://culturecuppa.com/book/ Follow Victoria on LinkedIn for more global leadership, strategic communication and Cultural Intelligence insights: https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoria-rennoldson Talk to Victoria about your visibility challenges:https://culturecuppa.com/contact/ Watch the video of this Episode here: Why Great Work Does Not Speak For Itself - https://youtu.be/xE980ZU7ICI Read this Episode's Blog post here: Are People Seeing the Value You Bring? - https://culturecuppa.com/are-people-seeing-the-value-you-bring/
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  194 - How does storytelling travel across cultures? with Ned Legaspi 21.08.2026 33m

  What helps a story travel across cultures? In global organisations influenced by Western communication styles, leaders often rely heavily on data, logic, evidence and carefully structured presentations to create impact. Those things matter, but they are rarely what people remember most.  What people take away is the meaning they attach to your messages, and in leadership, storytelling shapes how you build trust, make ideas memorable, influence stakeholders, communicate change and help people connect with a shared purpose.  Yet a story that resonates in one cultural context may not land in another if the references, humour, metaphors, assumptions or emotional signals do not translate, even if you are communicating within one organisation. In this conversation with Ned Legaspi, cultural intelligence educator, author and former media executive from the Philippines, we explore why storytelling has become such an important leadership communication skill, especially for professionals working across cultures, markets and diverse teams. Ned brings over 30 years of experience in storytelling and cross-cultural communication, including senior media leadership experience and teaching communication. He is the author of Culturally Intelligent Storytelling for Southeast Asian Creators and a CQ Fellow. Together, we explore universal human themes, but why cultural translation is vital if your stories are to land. Hope, loss, family and belonging may be universal human experiences, but the way they are expressed, interpreted and emotionally received is deeply shaped by culture. Ned shares his Bamboo Framework as a practical way to think about culturally intelligent storytelling for leaders, and has clear relevance for global professionals who need their ideas to connect across cultural boundaries. Ultimately, storytelling is about audience awareness, cultural adaptation and the ability to communicate meaning in a way others can recognise and trust. What you will learn in this episode: Why storytelling is now one of the most important communication skills for leaders How stories help make strategy and business messages more memorable and meaningful Why universal themes do not automatically create universal connection How culture shapes attitudes to humour, authority, conflict, belonging and emotional expression Why metaphors, idioms and local references can create distance when they do not translate Ned's Bamboo Framework to help you think about storytelling across cultures Why understanding your own cultural DNA is the starting point for communicating across difference What Western leaders can learn from Southeast Asian perspectives on communication, relationships and time This conversation offers a great reminder that global influence is about understanding the cultural context in which your message lands and shows why culturally adjusted storytelling can help you connect, build trust, and make your ideas memorable. How culturally adaptable are the stories you tell? What idioms, humour, or metaphors could be limiting how your message lands across cultures? Resources: Connect with Ned Legaspi on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nedlegaspi Visit Ned Legaspi's website: https://http://www.nedlegaspi.com Buy Ned Legaspi's book: https://nedlegaspi.com/buy/ Buy Victoria's book, Become a Global Leader:https://culturecuppa.com/book/ Follow Victoria on LinkedIn for more strategies, ideas and inspiration: https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoria-rennoldson Read this Episode's Blog post here: Cultural Intelligence in Storytelling - https://culturecuppa.com/cultural-intelligence-in-storytelling/  
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  193 - Neuroinclusive communication in the Workplace with Sara Bagheri 14.08.2026 37m

  What does neuroinclusive communication look like at work? Many leaders want to create inclusive teams, but do not always know what that means in everyday interactions and communication in meetings and conversations. It is one thing to value difference in principle, but another to understand how communication styles, meeting structures, sensory needs, processing time and psychological safety can be shaped so people feel able to speak and truly contribute. In this conversation with Sara Bagheri, Communication and Voice Consultant, we explore the intersection between communication and neuroinclusion, with a particular focus on ADHD in the workplace. Sara holds a Bachelor of Science in Speech, Language and Voice Therapy and works with professionals and organisations to transform how they communicate in speaking environments such as panels, conferences, podcasts and high-stakes interviews. Together, we explore why neurodiversity is part of the wider human experience of how our brains process information, behaviour and communication differently. Sara shares how ADHD may show up in workplace communication and how behaviours can be misinterpreted. This conversation connects closely to Cultural Intelligence because both require us to question assumptions. Whether we are working across cultures, languages, generations or neurotypes, leaders need to ask- whose communication style is being rewarded, whose voice is being missed, and what conditions allow more people to contribute their ideas? Sara's insights and strategies are a valuable reminder that inclusive communication benefits everyone, and improves clarity, participation and psychological safety for the whole team. What you will learn in this episode: What neurodiversity, neurotypical and neurodivergent mean, and why the language matters How ADHD can show up through communication, interaction and behaviour at work Why directness, urgency, going off on a tangent, or high energy can be misinterpreted   The ways in which meeting preparation, agendas and clear expectations invite better contribution The strengths of those with ADHD and the benefits to the whole team of different communication and participation styles  Ways for managers to support and reduce the cognitive load for neurodiverse team members How meetings can be adapted to support sensory needs and processing time This conversation is ultimately about creating workplaces where individuals have the space to communicate, contribute or lead in their own way. For leaders, this means becoming more aware of your own communication preferences, noticing the styles you may unconsciously reward, and creating spaces where different people can participate without having to mask, over-adapt or exhaust themselves to fit in. What assumptions could you be making about a team member's communication style? Whose voice is missing from your meetings? Resources: Visit Sara Bagheri's website: https://www.fluencecomms.co.uk/ Connect with Sara Bagheri on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarafluencecomms/ Find out more about Victoria's book, Become a Global Leader: https://culturecuppa.com/book/ Follow Victoria on LinkedIn for more strategies, ideas and inspiration: https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoria-rennoldson Read this Episode's Blog post here: ADHD & Neurodiversity: The Communication Barriers your Team could be Struggling with - https://culturecuppa.com/adhd-neurodiversity-the-communication-barriers-your-team-could-be-struggling-with/
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  192 - Are you outsourcing your judgement to AI? with Rahim Hirji 07.08.2026 43m

  What happens to human judgement with AI? Many of you I am sure are being encouraged to use AI more, embed it fully and become even more productive. Yet there is a deeper question sitting underneath the flurry of activity and hype: are we simply outsourcing the very human skills that make us so valuable? In this conversation with Rahim Hirji, author of 'SuperSkills: The Seven Human Skills for the Age of AI' and keynote speaker on AI and human capability, we explore the specific skills to focus on as AI becomes increasingly enmeshed in our work and lives. He shares a powerful leadership tension that AI can help us move faster, but it can also quietly, and without us even noticing, weaken our judgement as we forget where our own thinking begins and ends in 'algorithmic drift', those moments when we slowly hand over our agency. This conversation is not anti-AI, in fact, Rahim talks clearly about being both pro-human and pro-AI, and argues that the real opportunity is to develop an augmented mindset, knowing when to use AI, when not to use it, and where the human needs to remain firmly in the process. Rahim co-founded the skills platform EtonX, led international growth at Quizlet across more than 60 countries, and his SuperSkills research spans more than 200 organisations in over 30 countries. He also writes 'Box of Amazing', a weekly briefing on AI, technology and human capability read by more than 25,000 leaders. What you will learn in this episode: Why judgement has become one of the most important human skills in the age of AI How we are sleepwalking into 'algorithmic drift', unconsciously handing over decision-making Where humans belong in AI-enabled processes How leadership can help their people to focus on their agency and human capabilities The power of real curiosity  The opportunity of the augmented mindset - the power of both AI and humans together Why global adaptability still matters The inherent cultural values and biases in AI  A message of hope Where in your work are you already outsourcing more judgement to AI than you realise? How often do you pause to consider how to answer your questions, and if AI is the right channel? Resources: Find out more about Rahim Hirji's book 'SuperSkills': https://www.thesuperskills.com/book Learn more about Rahim's work: https://www.thesuperskills.com/ Connect with Rahim on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rahimhirji/ Connect with Rahim on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rahimhirji/ Find out more about Victoria's book, Become a Global Leader:https://culturecuppa.com/book/ Follow Victoria on LinkedIn for more strategies, ideas and inspiration: https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoria-rennoldson Find out more about Victoria's strategic communication programmes:https://culturecuppa.com/individuals Read this Episode's Blog post here: AI: from algorithmic drift to human agency: https://culturecuppa.com/ai-from-algorithmic-drift-to-human-agency/
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  191 - The Hidden Alignment Problem in Teams 31.07.2026 22m

  What if the reason your assignment is stuck is that there is a lack of alignment on the issue? I speak regularly with professionals who are under constant pressure to move at pace, demonstrate progress and deliver tangible and visible solutions. Yet in that rush to act, teams can easily jump into solutions before they have properly aligned on the problem they are trying to solve. In this podcast episode, I explore why better answers start with better questions, and why problem alignment is often skipped in the move to create momentum. I look at what happens when key decision-makers appear to be discussing the same mission, but are actually working from very different assumptions about its purpose and measure of success.  And this is not just a delivery issue because when stakeholders are not aligned on the problem, time is wasted, frustration builds and the team can feel as if they are looping backwards to initial phases which they thought they had completed.  This becomes even more complex in global and diverse teams, where different behavioural preferences, communication styles and cultural norms can influence how people define problems in the first place, express disagreement, manage risk, and their bias for action. What you will learn in this episode: Why teams often jump into solutions before agreeing on the real problem The individual and team impact of misalignment  The aligning challenge - defining the problem The culturally driven behavioural preferences that influence how people approach projects  Which cultural factors can create the greatest resistance, friction and misalignment How uncertainty avoidance can shape how people respond to risk The clarity questions you can use before moving into implementation Where might you be jumping into solutions before agreeing on the problem? How could cultural intelligence help you notice the hidden misalignment before it becomes an issue? Resources: The topics from today's podcast feature in Pillar 2 Clarity and Pillar 4 Cultural Intelligence from Victoria's book, Become a Global Leader. Explore deeper, get your copy: https://culturecuppa.com/book/ Follow Victoria on LinkedIn for more global leadership, strategic communication and Cultural Intelligence insights: https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoria-rennoldson Talk to Victoria about your team's communication and cultural challenges : https://culturecuppa.com/contact/ Read this Episode's Blog post here: Are you solving the wrong problem? https://culturecuppa.com/are-you-solving-the-wrong-problem/
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  190 - Encouragement is Where Courage Begins with Helen Gibson MBE 24.07.2026 31m

  What happens when encouragement becomes a leadership capability, not just a nice thing to do? According to Helen Gibson MBE, encouragement is not soft or superficial, it is where we get our courage from. Many leaders and ambitious professionals are navigating what Helen calls 'the porridge (oatmeal) of life', those thick, heavy moments where progress feels slow, energy is low, you're losing momentum, and the way forward is not always clear. In complex organisations and uncertain times, this can show up as pressure, decision fatigue, or simply feeling stuck.  This is when encouragement is needed, as something we can practise, notice, capture and offer to others, not just receive.  In this conversation with Helen Gibson MBE, award-winning global entrepreneur, TEDx speaker, coach, international business leadership expert and author of 'Go for Goosebumps', we explore how encouragement can help individuals, teams and organisations move forward through difficult moments. Helen's leadership experience spans complex transformation programmes for governments around the world, including counter-terrorism, corruption, cybercrime, health crises and justice reform. As the former CEO of her family business, she led values-driven frontline change across nearly 30 countries for clients including the UK Government, the NHS, the EU and the United Nations. Recognised with an MBE for services to international trade, Helen brings deep experience in resilience, international business, women in leadership and meaningful change. What you will learn in this episode: Why encouragement matters in leadership, especially now How experiencing goosebumps (shivers of excitement) can signal momentum What happens when we get stuck in the 'porridge (oatmeal) of life' Her traffic light model to help you know where to move forward Showing people you care before trying to prove what you know How stories and legacy questions help people reconnect with what matters What to do if you have no time for the perfect pause 'Victories folders' to help build your evidence for confidence  How leaders can best encourage themselves and others  Where are you currently walking through 'the porridge of life'? What signs of encouragement might you be missing? How could you encourage someone else this week? Resources: Connect with Helen Gibson on LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/helengibsonmbe Visit Helen Gibson's website: https://www.helengibsonmbe.com Find Helen Gibson's book 'Go for Goosebumps!': https://www.waterstones.com/book/go-for-goosebumps/helen-gibson/9781806340316 Listen to Helen Gibson's TEDx talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WtbMDM33q2s Find out more about Victoria's strategic communication programmes: https://culturecuppa.com/individuals / Buy Victoria's book, Become a Global Leader: https://culturecuppa.com/book/ Follow Victoria on LinkedIn for more strategies, ideas and inspiration: https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoria-rennoldson Read this Episode's Blog post here: Why Encouragement is a Leadership Capability: https://culturecuppa.com/why-encouragement-is-a-leadership-capability/
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  189 - The Hidden Reality of Senior Leadership 17.07.2026 23m

  What happens when senior leaders have the conversations they rarely get to have? Many senior leaders carry questions, pressures and responsibilities that are not always visible from the outside. They may be managing organisational change, complex teams, at the same time as personal and family commitments and challenges. While they juggle difficult decisions, there is the pressure to appear composed, even when they are working things out themselves. In this podcast episode, I share my reflections and observations from my first senior leader dinner, a confidential and intimate evening for women leaders to come together, put job titles and organisations aside, and have a different kind of conversation about the realities of leadership today. This was not a networking evening, a general catch up, or even a formal leadership event. It was a space for honest conversation, good food, peer connection and deeper thinking in a very special experience. Respecting the confidentiality of the room, I draw on the broad themes that emerged from the dinner, exploring why leadership and life are not separate conversations, why senior leaders need trusted spaces to share, and how behaviours, language and signalling can shape the culture experienced by the people they lead. What you will learn in this episode: Why senior leaders need spaces for honest conversations beyond the usual networking places The human realities of leadership that are often hidden beneath visible exteriors Why leadership and life are not separate conversations How the work-life blend can be a more useful idea than work-life balance The opportunity to 'give permission' through signalling behaviour How language can reveal hidden assumptions about women in leadership The value of confidential peer spaces where leaders can share honestly Where do you currently go to have open conversations about the realities of your leadership? What are you carrying as a leader that is invisible to others? Resources: Who do you know who would value Victoria's next senior leader dinner for women? DM Victoria on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoria-rennoldson Learn more about and buy Victoria's book, Become a Global Leader:https://culturecuppa.com/book/ Follow Victoria on LinkedIn for more global leadership, strategic communication and Cultural Intelligence insights: https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoria-rennoldson Talk to Victoria about global leadership coaching:https://culturecuppa.com/contact/ Read this Episode's Blog post here: The Conversations Senior Leaders Rarely Have: https://culturecuppa.com/the-conversations-senior-leaders-rarely-have/
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  188 - Leadership is an Apprenticeship with Helen Brocklebank 10.07.2026 33m

  What does it take to grow into leadership? Leadership can look impressive from the title, but the reality is often far more complex. It can mean making decisions without having all the insight, shouldering responsibility without certainty, holding competing stakeholder needs, and recognising when the path you once wanted is no longer the right one. In this conversation with Helen Brocklebank, Chief Executive of Walpole, the sector body for the UK's leading luxury brands, we explore leadership as an evolving apprenticeship rather than the end goal or title you finally achieve. Since becoming Chief Executive in 2017, Helen has led significant growth and transformation, strengthening Walpole's advocacy, sustainability leadership and industry influence. She spearheaded the British Luxury Sustainability Manifesto, and serves on the Board of the European Cultural and Creative Industries Alliance and the Duke of Edinburgh's Award Women in Business Committee. Helen shares openly how a long-held ambition to run her own business ultimately taught her that success on paper does not always mean alignment in practice. That experience became a pivotal moment in understanding her values, strengths and the kind of leadership role in which she could make her greatest contribution. Together, we explore why leadership starts with knowing yourself, why physical strength, creativity and cultural curiosity can support better decision-making, and why listening is the essential first step in communication, storytelling and stakeholder influence. A core thought that emerged from this conversation- every role, relationship and difficult experience can become part of your leadership apprenticeship if you are willing to notice what it is teaching you. What you will learn in this episode: How to recognise when career ambitions no longer align with your strengths, values or wellbeing Why self-leadership is the foundation for leading others effectively The role strength, energy and personal habits play in sustaining leadership performance How your learning can strengthen empathy, problem-solving and strategic thinking Storytelling is fundamental to leadership How listening helps leaders unlock challenging situations The role of candid, uncomfortable conversations  Why leadership is a behaviour, not a job title What is your current role teaching you as part of your 'leadership apprenticeship'? Resources: Connect with Helen Brocklebank on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/helenbrocklebank/ Find out more about Victoria's strategic communication programmes:https://culturecuppa.com/individuals / Buy Victoria's book, Become a Global Leader:https://culturecuppa.com/book/ Follow Victoria on LinkedIn for more strategies, ideas and inspiration: https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoria-rennoldson Read this episode's Blog post: Leadership: the Journey, not the Job Title
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  187 - Creating Clarity in Uncertainty 03.07.2026 23m

  What happens when leaders can no longer offer certainty? Many professionals I speak to are navigating continuous waves of change with organisational restructures, constantly shifting priorities, AI changing ways of working, economic uncertainty and changing customer expectations all part of everyday working life. For many, it feels less like steering towards a destination on the high waves, constantly adjusting course, with no chance of calm seas. In this podcast episode, I explore one of the biggest questions that I hear emerging: how do leaders create certainty for their teams when nobody can confidently predict what comes next? As teams adapt to permanent change, leadership itself is changing too. The old expectation that leaders should always have the answers is not realistic.  Drawing on reflections from the recent CIPD Festival of Work conference, conversations with senior leaders and my own coaching work, I explore why your clarity has become one of the most important leadership skills in uncertain times. What you will learn in this episode: Why uncertainty means leaders have to be like Wimbledon tennis players  The difference between creating certainty and creating clarity How leaders can communicate direction honestly, while acknowledging what is still unknown Experimentation - a more effective leadership mindset than forecasting  The importance of alignment, communication consistency and transparency when priorities are changing What your team need most from you The questions you can answer to create clarity How the 4 Pillars of Global Leader Communication can help you through uncertainty  How can you create greater clarity for your team this week? Resources: Learn more about and buy Victoria's book, Become a Global Leader: https://culturecuppa.com/book/ Follow Victoria on LinkedIn for more leadership communication, confidence and Cultural Intelligence insights: https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoria-rennoldson Talk to Victoria about leadership coaching: https://culturecuppa.com/contact/
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  186 - Finding Your Voice with Gill McKay 26.06.2026 31m

  What does it mean to find your voice? Your ability to communicate confidently, influence others and share your perspective has never been more important, yet finding your voice is far more than about being a confident public speaker. It is about recognising the value of your contribution and having the confidence to share it. In this empowering conversation with Gill McKay, award-winning TEDx speaker, author and speaker coach, we explore what it means to find your voice and why so many people struggle to do so, and end up 'staying small'. With a background in neuroscience, Gill has helped hundreds of people overcome their imposter syndrome to share their ideas and stories with greater impact. She is passionate about helping people recognise that their views and messages matter, and that they can create an impetus for change through sharing their voice. Together, we explore the internal narratives that cause people to play small, the impact of dominant voices in teams, and why curiosity, confidence and a reframe on service can help people move beyond fear and self-doubt. Gill's message rings clear- your voice matters.  What you will learn in this episode: Why capable professionals hold themselves back from speaking How organisational culture can influence who speaks and who stays silent Confidence is built through action, rather than waiting until you feel ready The mindset shift that can move you forward  How curiosity can help you overcome fear, self-doubt and limiting beliefs The role of silence, listening and thoughtful contribution in effective communication Where might you be holding back a perspective that could add value? Resources: Connect with Gill McKay on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gillmckay/ Watch Gill McKay's TEDx Talk: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ewwAAYxPfRQ Join Gill McKay's Speak and Shine Summit: https://kieradair.com/speak-and-shine-summit/ Find out more about Victoria's strategic communication programmes: https://culturecuppa.com/individuals / Buy Victoria's book, Become a Global Leader: https://culturecuppa.com/book/ Follow Victoria on LinkedIn for more strategies, ideas and inspiration: https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoria-rennoldson
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  185 - Why being Heard Starts Before you Enter the Room 19.06.2026 22m

  What if being heard was not about speaking more? Many professionals I work with tell me they want to be more vocal in meetings, contribute with greater confidence, and ensure their ideas are recognised.  Yet beneath those goals often sits a deeper challenge. It is not a lack of expertise, experience or valuable ideas. It is the hesitation, the overthinking and the fear of judgement, and even the question of whether their perspective is good enough to share.  This is the uncertainty that comes before your contribution ever surfaces. Maybe you recognise this too? In this podcast episode, I explore why being heard starts long before you enter the meeting room. We look at what creates the opportunity for others to listen to you, and why waiting for permission, certainty, or the perfect moment may be holding you back more than you realise. This is a simple but powerful shift- being heard is not about speaking more. It is about recognising the value of your contribution, trusting yourself to make it, and crafting your own conditions for your voice to have impact. What you will learn in this episode: Why the challenge isn't your communication How fear, overthinking and perfectionism can quietly stop you from contributing A practical way to deal with the doubts before important conversations How clarity creates confidence The hidden cost of staying silent How to tap into leadership presence  Strengthen your presence and influence in meetings One of the strongest themes throughout this episode is that many professionals are already capable, experienced and knowledgeable enough to credibly share their ideas.  The challenge is not capability, but permission, specifically the permission we do or do not give ourselves. Ultimately, being heard is not about waiting for the perfect moment, it is about trusting yourself enough to create it. What valuable perspective, idea or challenge might your team be missing if you remain silent? Resources: Learn more about and buy Victoria's book, Become a Global Leader:https://culturecuppa.com/book/ Follow Victoria on LinkedIn for more leadership communication, confidence and Cultural Intelligence insights: https://www.linkedin.com/in/victoria-rennoldson Talk to Victoria about leadership coaching:https://culturecuppa.com/contact/