In this episode of Helping Organisations Thrive, I am joined by Sarah Katherine Schmidt as we explore the fascinating science of how our brains respond to change. Sarah dives into the psychology and neuroscience behind change management, offering actionable insights for leaders navigating transformation in their organisations. Sarah highlights the importance of self-awareness in leaders—understanding their own emotions and how they influence their response to change. Equally crucial is developing empathy for others, recognising the diverse ways team members process change. By fostering psychological safety, leaders can create a sense of inclusion and belonging, encouraging open conversations. The discussion unpacks strategies to elevate positive brain chemicals, like fostering excitement and championing change. Sarah also addresses the unique needs of those who feel more anxious about change, emphasising the need for structure, clear goals, and inclusive conversations to help them feel empowered and impactful.

If you are looking for a Blueprint to help you and your business manage uncertainty, deal with failure and navigate change then reach out to Julian at: julian@julianrobertsconsulting.com

You can buy my book "Weathering the Storm: A Guide to Building Resilient Teams" on Amazon: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0DFTYN2Y2

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In this episode of Helping Organisations Thrive, we welcome former Xero CEO Steve Vamos to discuss how leaders can navigate change effectively. Steve delves into the difference between gradual shifts and sudden shocks, emphasising that leaders who are comfortable with change can respond to shocks with a more measured approach. He shares strategies for avoiding overwhelm during constant change, such as focusing on what’s important and managing energy wisely. Steve highlights the critical role of mindset, stressing the importance of caring, connecting, and enabling others through vulnerability-based trust and genuine respect. Drawing on his experiences, Steve discusses how prioritisation, clear communication, and empathy are key to keeping teams motivated and rebuilding confidence after difficult situations. Reflecting on his career, Steve shares the lessons he’s learned: success comes from prioritising people and embracing a learner’s mindset.

If you are looking for a Blueprint to help you and your business manage uncertainty, deal with failure and navigate change then reach out to Julian at: julian@julianrobertsconsulting.com

You can buy my book "Weathering the Storm: A Guide to Building Resilient Teams" on Amazon: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0DFTYN2Y2

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In this episode of Helping Organisations Thrive, Dr. Alia Bojilova, a former special forces psychologist, shares her unique insights on resilience through the lens of psychology and her military background. Alia highlights the critical role of curiosity in building resilience, helping individuals move beyond the fight, flight, or freeze response and engage more deeply with their environment. Reflecting on her experience of being taken hostage in Syria, Alia explains how curiosity enabled her to understand her captors' intentions and communicate effectively. She also shares how small acts of positivity, like a glance or a smile, can serve as powerful survival mechanisms in the face of challenges. We explore how leaders can cultivate curiosity within teams by fostering awareness, encouraging questions, and creating collaborative environments. Drawing further on Alia’s military background, we discuss the key traits that make special forces personnel elite and resilient: Self-awareness, a deep sense of belonging, curiosity, and the ability to maintain "subjective equilibrium." Alia also offers practical tools for leaders and team members to develop and enhance these traits within themselves.

If you are looking for a Blueprint to help you and your business manage uncertainty, deal with failure and navigate change then reach out to Julian at: julian@julianrobertsconsulting.com

You can buy my book "Weathering the Storm: A Guide to Building Resilient Teams" on Amazon: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0DFTYN2Y2

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