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  • Challenging Assumptions: The Art of Inquiry and Future Thinking in Leadership with Ralph Mercer

    Challenging Assumptions: The Art of Inquiry and Future Thinking in Leadership with Ralph Mercer
    2024/11/17

    This week, we engage in a thought-provoking discussion on leadership and the philosophy of inquiry with Ralph Mercer.

    We examine the significance of challenging our assumptions and fostering robust thinking in collaborative environments. Ralph shares insights from his diverse background, including his experiences in the military and academia, to illustrate how our worldviews shape our understanding of the future.

    We discuss the role of technology in shaping human experiences, the concept of gray swans in foresight, and practical methods for analyzing literature through causal layered analysis. Join us as we unpack these ideas and consider how they can enhance our leadership practices and decision-making processes.

    SHOWNOTES are here.

    Key Quotes

    1. "Better leadership needs better thinking. If we can think about what our common drivers are, our common drivers create connection." Zoë Routh

    2. "When we have connection, we can actually create a path forward. That is the magical thinking that we're after." Zoë Routh

    3. "Our understanding of ourselves and the world around us defines how we see the present and the future, and very much how we deal with our problems every day." Ralph Mercer

    4. "Causal layered analysis became a very good way for me to take apart the book and look at what was hoping to psychologically motivate me to believe this way." Ralph Mercer

    5. "If you're reading something to develop yourself or to understand the bigger picture, then you've really being human to yourself and to those that you're going to be dealing with." Ralph Mercer

    Questions Asked

    1. How can we effectively challenge our thinking and develop robust perspectives in leadership?

    2. In what ways do metaphors and underlying philosophies shape our understanding of leadership literature?

    3. What tangible benefits arise from deep reading and analyzing texts to enhance our leadership capabilities?

    Take Action

    1. Challenge Your Worldview: Regularly reflect on beliefs and engage with diverse perspectives and consider how they influence your leadership style.

    2. Join a Book Club: Participate in discussions analyzing literature on societal issues.

    3. Practice Deep Reading: Analyze metaphors and philosophies in leadership literature for deeper understanding.

    4. Engage in Reflective Dialogue: Initiate conversations to find common values and foster empathy.

    5. Commit to Lifelong Learning: Seek diverse information sources to continuously expand your knowledge base.

    Tip of the Week:

    Review the collaboration self-checklist - available for subscribers only. Join the community here. You’ll get 40 book summaries and recommendations on Leading Strategy and Performance, along with a special secret audio from my award-winning book, People Stuff.

    Key Moments

    00:00 Introduction and Weekly Question

    00:20 Google's Nuclear Power Deal

    01:14 Zoe's Personal Updates

    02:06 Understanding Different Perspectives

    06:08 Tea Time with Ralph Mercer

    07:03 Exploring Leadership and Technology

    11:37 Analyzing Books with Causal Layered Analysis

    15:46 The Importance of Deep Reading

    21:49 Challenges in Technology and Society

    25:34 Envisioning the Future: Who Stands Next to You?

    26:26 Post Humanism and Ethical Technology

    27:31 Rethinking Our Relationship with Technology

    28:31 The Importance of an Evolving Worldview

    29:18 Quantum Social Sciences and New Perspectives

    30:35 Books That Shift Worldviews

    34:20 Leadership: Understanding Power Dynamics

    36:33 The Fast Three: Future Tech, Leadership Tips, and Reading Recommendations

    40:19 The Gray Swan Guild Book Club

    43:53 Fiction Books on the Future

    46:23 Conclusion: Stretching Our Brains and Changing Worldviews
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    43 分
  • Leadership Insights from the US Election

    Leadership Insights from the US Election
    2024/11/12

    In this special episode, Zoe, a leadership futurist and Canadian Australian in Canberra, dives deep into the implications of the US election results. Despite living outside the US, she reflects on the global ripple effects of American democracy and economy, discusses the division between political sides, and explores the values and stories driving these reactions.

    Zoe examines the leadership maturity framework and emphasizes the importance of curiosity, compassion, and systemic thinking in bridging political divides. She also stresses the necessity of supporting security and education initiatives to build a better future.

    Full Shownotes here.

    Key Moments:

    00:00 Introduction to the U.S. Election Solo Sode

    00:15 Why the U.S. Election Matters Globally

    01:26 Diverse Reactions to the Election Results

    02:26 Understanding Moral Outrage

    03:30 Analyzing Values in the Election

    06:00 The Power of Compelling Stories

    07:07 Leadership Maturity and Election Dynamics

    11:01 Elon Musk: Genius or Power Player?

    12:49 Moving Forward: System Thinking and Civic Responsibility

    17:07 Conclusion: Bridging the Gap for a Better Future
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    18 分
  • How to Lead in Exponential Times

    How to Lead in Exponential Times
    2024/11/10

    This week, we explore the future of leadership, focusing on exponential thinking and futures literacy with Charlotte Kemp. We discuss the importance of developing a flexible mindset, utilising strategic foresight tools, and adopting iterative learning methods to navigate an increasingly complex world.

    The conversation covers various topics, including SpaceX's innovations, the impact of generative AI on creativity, and practical techniques for intelligence gathering and scenario planning.

    SHOWNOTES are here

    Key Quotes:
    1. "Exponential thinking is about understanding that we have to change our thinking for the pace and the time that we're in; the world is so much faster and more complex." Zoë Routh
    2. "Futures thinking gives us the tools to anticipate change, allowing us to be more agile and flexible in how we respond to whatever happens next." Charlotte Kemp
    3. "As leaders, we must get really good at asking genius questions and creating unusual connections, as that is where our true value lies." Zoë Routh
    4. "Our brains can't tell whether what we're thinking about is an imaginary story or a real experience, which is why we need to prepare ourselves for both worst-case and best-case scenarios." Charlotte Kemp
    5. "The old five-year strategic plan can be thrown out; we need new ways of approaching our leadership that reflect the interconnected, fast-paced world we live in." Zoë Routh

    Questions Asked:
    What is exponential thinking?
    What are some examples of different ways of approaching our leadership or our thinking in an exponential world?
    How do these tools, like scenario planning, actually prepare our brains?What practical steps can leaders take to ensure they are prepared for both negative and positive outcomes?


    Take Action
    1. Develop a flexible mindset by regularly challenging your assumptions and seeking diverse perspectives.
    2. Practice scenario planning to prepare for multiple possible futures.
    3. Implement iterative learning methods in your organization to adapt quickly to changes.
    4. Engage in environmental scanning to gather intelligence on emerging trends and potential disruptions.
    5. Cultivate futures literacy by exploring various futures thinking tools and methodologies

    Tip of the Week
    Review the collaboration self-checklist - available for subscribers only. Join the community here. You’ll get 40 book summaries and recommendations on Leading Strategy and Performance, along with a special secret audio from my award-winning book, People Stuff.

    Key Moments
    00:00 Welcome to the Future of Leadership
    00:33 SpaceX and the Journey to Mars
    01:16 Leadership Training in Western Australia
    01:49 Upcoming Projects on Planet Zoe
    02:38 The Role of Generative AI in Creativity
    04:09 Introducing Charlotte Kemp: Futures Alchemist
    04:57 Understanding Exponential Thinking
    07:04 The Importance of Futures Thinking
    09:25 Scenario Planning: Preparing for the Future
    17:38 Mistakes in Strategic Leadership
    22:29 Mindset, Toolset, and Skillset for Future Leadership
    24:27 The Four Stages of Futures Thinking
    24:37 Gathering Intelligence: The First Stage
    24:48 Managing Change: The Second Stage
    25:23 Describing the Future: The Third Stage
    25:33 Testing Strategy: The Fourth Stage
    26:58 Practical Techniques for Intelligence Gathering
    30:24 Avoiding Confirmation Bias
    32:35 Examples of Leading Exponentially
    34:26 Iterative vs. Revolutionary Approaches
    36:56 The Fast Three: Quickfire Questions
    40:30 Conclusion and Final Thoughts
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    45 分
  • Non-Obvious Thinking: Navigating Future Trends with Rohit Bhargava

    Non-Obvious Thinking: Navigating Future Trends with Rohit Bhargava
    2024/11/03

    In this episode, we explore the importance of recognizing non-obvious trends and their implications for leadership and innovation with Rohit Bhargava, a 3-time Wall Street Journal Bestselling Author.

    We discuss Norway's electric vehicle advancements, the preparation for the Leadership Conclave, and methods for effective trend spotting, including the Haystack method and scenario planning.

    Learn how to spot the next big thing and position yourself for success.

    SHOWNOTES are here.

    Key Quotes

    • "We can't solve the whole problem with just one part of the problem; we need to think in systems." - Zoe Routh
    • "Leaders must create mental space to uncover insights." - Rohit Bhargava
    • "Embrace the obvious insights; they often hold the key to broader understanding." - Rohit Bhargava

    Questions Asked:

    • What are you paying attention to?
    • How can leaders prepare for emerging trends?
    • What role does creativity play in recognizing patterns?

    Take Action:

    • Practice non-obvious thinking by observing everyday trends.
    • Engage in scenario planning to anticipate future developments.
    • Read Rohit Bhargava's book, Non-Obvious Thinking, for deeper insights.

    Tip of the Week:
    Review the collaboration self-checklist - available for subscribers only. Join the community here. You’ll get 40 book summaries and recommendations on Leading Strategy and Performance, along with a special secret audio from my award-winning book, People Stuff.

    Key Moments
    00:00 Welcome and Weekly Question
    00:17 Electric Vehicle Revolution in Norway
    01:38 Leadership Conclave Preparation
    02:28 Reflecting on the Past and Future
    05:43 Introducing Rohit Bhargava
    06:50 Discussing Non-Obvious Trends
    21:37 Breaking the Rules of Book Publishing
    22:54 Time Horizons in Non-Obvious Thinking
    25:37 Scenario Planning and Trend Prediction
    28:39 The Haystack Method for Pattern Recognition
    30:46 Surprising Insights in Non-Obvious Thinking
    36:32 The Fast Three: Quickfire Questions
    39:56 Podcast Wrap-Up and Listener Engagement
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    42 分
  • Kind Business Revolution: How Values Create Value

    Kind Business Revolution: How Values Create Value
    2024/10/20
    We explore the transformative potential of kindness in business with Dr. David Cooke, former Managing Director of Konica Minolta Australia. Dr. Cooke shares his journey from traditional hierarchical leadership to a more inclusive, kind approach that drove significant cultural and commercial success. Practical examples and heartfelt stories illustrate how kindness can be a powerful force in achieving both profit and social good. Don't miss out on an inspiring conversation that challenges conventional business practices and offers a vision for a more compassionate future. #FutureOfLeadership #ESG #KindBusiness #Ethics Become a Podcast Insider! For subscriber only bonuses including an implementation checklist, discussion questions, water cooler factoids, and special subscriber-only offers. Join us here: Podcast Insider Full shownotes here. Planet Human: Neuralink aims to cure blindness Join us at the Leadership Conclave here. Summary The potential future of human augmentation through technological advances like Neuralink. Zoe shares personal updates: Upcoming book Olympus Rising (Book 3 of the Gaia Enterprises series). Nonfiction project Power Games, exploring leadership and ethics. Ethical questions in leadership, focusing on: The balance between personal responsibility and system regulation. Preventing leaders from slipping into unethical behaviors. Dr. David Cooke reflects on: Embedding kindness into corporate leadership. The importance of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) principles in business. His experience at Konica Minolta and how kindness-driven leadership leads to business success. Key Quotes "What if we started to evaluate businesses on their contribution to social good and not just their accumulation of wealth?" Zoë Routh "None of them really believe they are the villain. And yet we can show up and have villainous behaviour." Dr David Cooke "Leadership isn't being aloof and distant. Leadership is working with people." Dr David Cooke "Once you know, you can't unknow. Once you've seen, you can't unsee." Dr David Cooke "I just want us all to work together to build a company that cares." Dr David Cooke Questions Explored Can kindness really be a force for good in business, or do nice guys finish last? Will there be two streams of humans, the natural and the amplified humans? What would society look like if businesses were evaluated on social good? How do we avoid slipping into unethical behavior while believing we are doing the right thing? How did kindness as a business philosophy help transform your company? Take Action Consider the role of kindness in leadership and how it can positively impact business outcomes. Engage in big-picture thinking by joining the Leadership Conclave to stay ahead of trends for 2025. Reflect on how systems within organizations can promote ethical leadership and prevent negative behaviors. Explore Power Games, Zoe’s upcoming book, for deeper insights on leadership and ethics. Tip of the Week: Evaluate your business not just by financial success but by its contributions to social good. This approach, as exemplified by companies like B Corps, can enhance both your company culture and long-term success. Key Moments 00:00 Introduction and Question of the Week 00:20 Neuralink's Ambitious Vision 01:15 Ethical Implications of Amplified Humanity 02:00 Updates from Planet Zoe 02:56 Leadership Conclave and Future Trends 03:54 Evaluating Business for Social Good 04:49 Self-Regulation and System Regulation 06:25 Introducing Dr. David Cooke 08:07 David Cooke on Kind Business 10:53 Challenges in Leadership and Cultural Change 29:11 Seeking Feedback and Leadership Balance 30:27 Implementing Cultural Change 35:15 Addressing Everyday Sexism 39:25 Promoting Ethical Sourcing and Human Rights 43:59 The Power of Kindness in Business 49:15 Fast Three: Quick Insights 52:50 Final Thoughts and Reflections 59:31 Podcast Wrap-Up and Listener Engagement Don't forget to like, share, and subscribe for more insights on the future of leadership! About Dr David Cooke Dr Cooke is the Executive Director of ESG Advisory, a consultancy dedicated to helping organizations challenge their leadership to think more broadly and responsibly about environmental, social, and governance practices. With over 35 years of corporate experience, including serving as Chair and Managing Director of Konica Minolta Australia, David brings a wealth of knowledge to his advisory role. He is a sought-after speaker and facilitator, offering keynotes, workshops, and panel participation on topics such as Kind Business, Business as a Force for Good, Building Strong Corporate Cultures, Ethical Decision Making, Business and Human Rights, and Fostering Successful Non-profit and For-profit Relationships. With a deep understanding of how to build strong, engaged corporate cultures and achieve ethical, sustainable business outcomes, Dr David Cooke is a passionate advocate for the values ...
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    58 分
  • Fighter Pilot Wisdom for Better Leadership

    Fighter Pilot Wisdom for Better Leadership
    2024/10/06

    Zoë Routh sits down with Christian "Boo" Boucousis, a former fighter pilot turned entrepreneur, to discuss leadership transformation through the lens of the fighter pilot mindset.

    👉 Become a Podcast Insider for more insights on evolving leadership for the future, with free implementation tip sheets and other Insider bonuses each episode: https://www.zoerouth.com/podcast-news

    👉The full shownotes are here: Boo Boucousis

    Boo shares his journey of continuous reinvention, from flying jets to founding businesses, and how the disciplined, methodical thinking of a fighter pilot can be applied to leadership and business. Together, they explore how iterative thinking, structured collaboration, and intentional leadership can help leaders create high-performing teams, drive results, and maintain credibility.

    👉 Join us at the Leadership Conclave. Canberra, Nov 8th, 2024.

    Key Takeaways:

    • The power of deliberate collaboration and face-to-face interactions in achieving team success.

    • How to use the plan-brief-execute-debrief cycle to build agility and continuously improve performance.

    • The importance of credibility and why it takes years to earn but only seconds to lose.

    Tip of the Week:
    Iterate for Success: Just as fighter pilots improve through continuous iteration, your leadership can evolve by making small, consistent changes. Debrief regularly with your team, reflect on gaps, and make actionable improvements.

    Key Moments

    00:00 Introduction and Main Question

    00:42 Neuralink and Brain-Computer Interfaces

    02:06 Ethical Challenges of Amplified Humans

    02:18 Book Writing and Upcoming Projects

    03:25 Ethical Implications and Leadership

    07:14 Tea Time with Christian Boo Boucousis

    08:27 Boo's Journey from Fighter Pilot to Entrepreneur

    19:07 Fighter Pilot Mindset and Leadership

    31:24 Diagnosing Business Dysfunction

    31:47 The Illusion of Freedom in Business

    32:31 The Myth of Overnight Success

    33:22 Technology and Dysfunctional Behaviors

    34:51 Iterative Planning and Execution

    37:33 The Power of Debriefing

    41:15 Leadership Traits and Credibility

    43:47 Introducing the Afterburner Effect

    47:31 The Fast Three Questions

    52:04 Finding Your Purpose

    54:45 Book Recommendations and Conclusion

    #Leadership #FutureOfLeadership #FighterPilotMindset #Collaboration #ChristianBoucousis #ZoeRouth #Afterburner #GrowthMindset
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    53 分
  • Business for Good: Globally Conscious Leadership

    Business for Good: Globally Conscious Leadership
    2024/09/27
    We dive deep into what it means to be a globally conscious leader with John Lamy. 🌱 John discusses the power of businesses to lead the fight against climate change, balancing profitability with responsibility. From building inner resilience through meditation and personal practices to creating businesses that serve both people and the planet, this episode is packed with insights. 🌏💼 ✨ "Businesses can be a force for good while remaining profitable" - John Lamy Join the conversation and learn how conscious leadership can shape a better world. Planet Human: Birth rates are not greater than they were than in 1950, in every country of the world. Event: Join us at the Leadership Conclave, Nov 8th in Canberra. Become a Podcast Insider for tip sheets, discussion questions, and other insider perks. Summary Conscious Leadership and Inner Practices John Lamy emphasizes that solving climate change requires more than technical knowledge—it demands inner strength and consciousness. He connects leadership practices such as meditation, journaling, and yoga with building resilience and the emotional resources needed to face the significant challenges ahead. “You’re going to have to have inner resources... it’s not going to be easy.” Business as a Force for Good Businesses can be a powerful force in addressing climate change. John advocates for companies to go beyond profit-making and be forces for social and environmental good. He encourages them to maintain integrity, engage employees in sustainability efforts, and foster values alignment with customers. “Business could be, should be, and can be an actual force to be reckoned with.” Challenges of Changing Mindsets John discusses how difficult it is to shift the prevailing mindset from profit-first to a more sustainable, globally conscious approach. He stresses that businesses need to own up to their environmental impacts and treat sustainability as a strategic priority. “Integrity. We’ve got to be honest... you will have expenses you didn’t have previously.” Six Principles of Conscious Leadership John shares six guiding principles for globally conscious leaders: Love the Earth Take interconnection to heart Be kind Treat all people equally Respect our life’s journeys Own our externalities (environmental and social impacts) These principles emphasize the ethical and moral responsibility leaders have towards people and the planet. “It sounds easy, but we have to raise it to consciousness.” Practical Steps for Businesses John offers practical steps for businesses to begin addressing climate change while still remaining profitable, from adopting eco-friendly products and services to engaging employees and customers in sustainability efforts. “It’s not just the leaders, but also the people who will appreciate a climate-friendly approach.” Key Quotes: “This is not going to be easy. There’s a lot of pushback... You’re going to have to have inner resources.” “Businesses can be forces for good. It’s not about sacrificing profits but aligning them with what matters for the future.” “What do we want for our grandchildren? This is about their future too.” Questions Explored: How does leadership consciousness relate to addressing climate change? Can businesses balance profitability with sustainability, and how? What principles can guide leaders towards becoming globally conscious? Take Action: Reflect on the six principles of conscious leadership in your own workplace. Implement interior practices like meditation or journaling to build emotional resilience for facing global challenges. Tip of the Week:Encourage business leaders to move from a profit-first mindset to a globally conscious leadership model by focusing on sustainability, integrity, and employee engagement. Key Moments 00:00 Introduction and Altruism in Business 00:20 Global Fertility Rates and Social Implications 01:34 Personal and Professional Updates from Zoë 02:23 Olympus Bound: Book Achievements 03:33 Leadership Conclave Announcement 04:46 Daily Questions for Global Consciousness 06:44 Interview with John Lamy: Introduction 07:47 Conscious Leadership and Climate Crisis 12:21 Business as a Force for Good 21:19 Steps to Solve the Climate Crisis 21:51 Principles for a Sustainable Future 22:31 The Importance of Interconnection 23:17 Making Personal Development Okay 25:10 Exploring the Six Principles 29:47 Rapid Fire Questions 34:07 Building a Community of Leaders 38:39 Book Recommendation: For Love and Money 39:55 Closing Thoughts and Call to Action
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    38 分