I had the pleasure of interviewing Joe Middleton, a seasoned professional in the apparel industry who's now making waves in the world of paddle tennis with his brand, Pulco. Joe shared his journey from playing cricket and field hockey to working for Levi's and Canterbury, before retiring and then unexpectedly diving into the paddle tennis market. He identified a gap in the sport's apparel and set out to create a brand that reflects the unique culture of paddle tennis. Joe emphasized the importan...
Jun 21, 2025•1 hr 2 min•Ep. 616
This episode is with Dan Docherty, an expert in leadership and communication. We explored the importance of personal vision and purpose in both professional and personal life. Dan shared his journey from corporate leadership to academia and consultancy, emphasising the value of lived experiences in coaching. We discussed the power of perspective-taking and empathy in leadership, and how understanding personal stories can transform workplace relationships. Dan highlighted the need for psychologic...
Jun 14, 2025•55 min•Ep. 615
I had the pleasure of speaking with Dana Cox, a business strategist, coach, and author from St. Louis. We delved into her journey from burnout to becoming a 'badass', as detailed in her book "From Burnout to Badass". Dana shared her personal experience of overcoming burnout, which stemmed from years of overcompensation and juggling multiple responsibilities. We discussed the challenges of recognizing burnout and the importance of self-knowledge in overcoming it. Dana emphasized the need to rewri...
Jun 07, 2025•1 hr 2 min•Ep. 614
In this episode, I sit down with Petra Velzeboer, a psychotherapist, author, and mental health consultant. We explore her journey from growing up in a religious cult to becoming a leading voice in workplace well-being. Petra shares insights on digital detoxes, the importance of self-awareness, and aligning well-being strategies with business objectives. We discuss the challenges of modern work culture, including always-on expectations and the need for authentic leadership. Petra offers practical...
May 24, 2025•56 min•Ep. 613
In this episode, I had the pleasure of interviewing Loïc Fery, a fascinating figure in both the business and sports worlds. Loïc shared insights from his diverse career, including his role as founding and running Chenavari, being the owner of French football club FC Lorient and his recent venture into the world of padel. We discussed the similarities and differences between managing a sports team and running a business, with Loïc emphasizing the unique emotional aspect of sports. He also shared ...
May 17, 2025•51 min•Ep. 612
I had the pleasure of speaking with Dr. Frances Lee, a professor of politics and public affairs at Princeton University. We delved into the political landscape during the COVID-19 pandemic, exploring how our democratic systems struggled to cope with the crisis. Dr. Lee shared insights from her book "In Covid's Wake: How Our Politics Failed Us," co-authored with Stephen Macedo. We discussed the concept of moralized antagonism and how it hindered productive dialogue during the pandemic. Dr. Lee hi...
May 10, 2025•1 hr 1 min•Ep. 611
This podcast features Ben Nichols, a communications expert and paddle enthusiast, discussing his career journey and current ventures in the paddle industry. Nichols shares insights from his time at the World Anti-Doping Agency, addressing the complexities of doping in sports. He also delves into his current role in promoting paddle through various initiatives, including Paddle22, a PR and marketing communications business, and Insider22, a membership community for paddle industry professionals. ...
May 03, 2025•1 hr 5 min•Ep. 610
This podcast features a conversation between host Minter Dial and guest Flavia Barbat, exploring the intricacies of branding and communication. Flavia, originally from Transylvania, shares her journey as editor-in-chief of Branding Mag and her approach to crafting meaningful brand narratives. The discussion delves into the importance of nuanced, long-form content in a world dominated by short attention spans and clickbait. Flavia emphasises the need for honesty and clarity in brand communication...
Apr 27, 2025•1 hr 13 min•Ep. 604
I had the pleasure of sitting down with Simon Hartley, a renowned sports psychologist and author, to explore the fascinating world of human psychology in sports and business. In our chat, Simon shared insights on motivation, focus, and the pursuit of excellence that apply far beyond the realm of athletics. We discussed the power of accountability, the importance of enjoyment in performance, and how to develop self-awareness to reach the next level. Simon also opened up about his latest book, "Ke...
Apr 19, 2025•1 hr•Ep. 608
This podcast features a conversation with my guest Mitch Joel, discussing various aspects of digital marketing, content creation, and the impact of AI. Joel shares insights on his career journey, the evolution of his work, and his new venture, ThinkersOne. The discussion covers topics such as the changing landscape of business books, the role of AI in content creation, and the challenges of hybrid work environments. Key points: 1. Joel introduces ThinkersOne, a platform connecting thought leader...
Apr 13, 2025•1 hr 7 min•Ep. 607
Esther O'Callaghan, founder of Hundo and OBE recipient, joins me to discuss the global youth employment crisis. We explore Hundo's innovative approach to workforce skills development and their new research arm, HUNDO Lab. Esther shares insights on the disconnect between education and employment, the importance of integrating technology skills earlier, and the need for businesses to engage with future workforces sooner. We delve into the challenges of intergenerational workplace dynamics, the val...
Apr 05, 2025•54 min•Ep. 606
Mark Schaefer, marketing expert and author, joins me to discuss his latest book "Audacious: How Humans Win in an AI Marketing World." We explore the importance of breaking bad rules for good reasons in marketing, the power of word-of-mouth, and the need for brands to create meaningful experiences. Mark challenges conventional marketing norms, emphasizing the value of play, humor, and embracing imperfection in brand strategies. We delve into the concept of "collective effervescence" and how brand...
Mar 30, 2025•1 hr•Ep. 605
Leslie Grandy, author of "Creative Velocity," shares her journey from film to tech, including encounters with industry giants like Brian De Palma and Steve Jobs. We explore the importance of emotional regulation when dealing with big personalities, and how character fuels creativity. Leslie discusses the ethics of AI co-creation and the need for critical thinking when using AI tools. We delve into the value of play in adult life and how it unlocks creativity. Leslie's insights on combining flow,...
Mar 23, 2025•1 hr 9 min•Ep. 604
In this episode, I had the privilege of speaking with Sir Mark Carleton-Smith, former Chief of the General Staff of the British Army. We explored his journey from a young rugby player to a seasoned military leader, discussing the geopolitical shifts he's witnessed throughout his career. Sir Mark shared invaluable insights on leadership, emphasising the importance of character, trust, and empowering others. We delved into the challenges facing Western nations, including the need for increased def...
Mar 16, 2025•1 hr 9 min•Ep. 603
From Bangladesh to Boardrooms: Faisal Hoque's Inspiring Journey In this episode, I sit down with Faisal Hoque, an entrepreneur, author, and innovator. We explore Faisal's journey from Bangladesh to the US, his experiences in tech entrepreneurship, and his shift towards philosophical writing. Faisal shares insights on leadership, resilience, and the importance of humanities in the age of AI. We discuss his upcoming book "Transcend: Unlocking Humanity in the Age of AI" and delve into the ethical c...
Mar 09, 2025•1 hr 7 min•Ep. 602
The Power of Creativity: Nicol Kindness's Journey into Podcasting I chat with Nicol Kindness, a former British Army officer turned podcaster living in the Swiss Alps. We explore his journey from a struggling youth to finding purpose in the military, and how that shaped his approach to life and leadership. Nicol shares insights from his podcast, "Mr. Kindness," where he interviews ordinary people with extraordinary stories. We discuss the importance of embracing risk, listening to intuition, and ...
Mar 02, 2025•1 hr 9 min•Ep. 601
Chantal Cornelius, founder of Apple Tree Marketing, joins me to discuss her unique approach to marketing and branding. We explore her journey from corporate life to entrepreneurship, and how her passion for horse riding has influenced her business philosophy. Chantal shares insights from her books "Magnetic Marketing" and "Standout Strategies," emphasizing the importance of emotional connections in marketing. We delve into the evolution of USPs, the five standout strategies she's identified, and...
Feb 23, 2025•57 min•Ep. 600
This 599th episode features Ron Szekely, a business coach with a fascinating background. Ron shared his journey from corporate life to entrepreneurial coaching, emphasizing the importance of simplifying business processes and maintaining passion in leadership. We explored his experiences in various industries, from beauty to beverages, and how this diversity has shaped his coaching approach. Ron's insights on hockey as a metaphor for business and life were particularly illuminating. We discussed...
Feb 15, 2025•57 min•Ep. 599
In this episode, I sit down with Saul Ezra, an architect and businessman with a rich multicultural background. Importantly, Saul has also been diagnosed with terminal brain cancer. We explore Saul's journey from Bombay to London, his experiences in architecture and property development, and the values that have shaped his life. Saul shares insights on education, sports, and the importance of family, offering a unique perspective on success and happiness. We discuss the challenges of modern socie...
Feb 02, 2025•1 hr 1 min•Ep. 598
In this episode, I sit down with Chantel Ray, author of "Delegate Everything but Sex." We explore Chantel's unique approach to delegation and time management, discussing how she built a life that prioritizes personal time and family. Chantel shares insights on becoming a "time millionaire," offering practical tips on simplifying processes, automating tasks, and identifying what to delegate. We delve into the importance of self-awareness in delegation, the concept of decision fatigue, and how to ...
Jan 26, 2025•1 hr 1 min•Ep. 597
Minter Dialogue with Brian Solis In this 596th episode, I sit down with Brian Solis, a digital analyst, anthropologist, and futurist. We explore his journey from digital disruption expert to personal transformation advocate, discussing his latest book, "Mindshift: Transform Leadership, Drive Innovation, and Reshape the Future." Brian shares insights on the rapid acceleration of digital adoption during COVID-19 and the subsequent challenges in true business transformation. We delve into the impor...
Jan 19, 2025•36 min•Ep. 596
Minter Dialogue with Dr Chris Kerr (Re-release) In 2024, I released 47 new episodes and with listeners from 113 countries I want to acknowledge those who are listening from as far away as Argentina, Chile, New Zealand, Indonesia and South Africa. I want to thank you for all your support and words of encouragement. I am grateful to have your ear and precious time once a week. So to celebrate the new year, I wanted to re-release the top 3 episodes of the year in terms of popularity. And I found it...
Jan 12, 2025•57 min
Minter Dialogue with Felix Velarde (re-release) This year, I released 47 new episodes on the Minter Dialogue podcast and we had listeners from 113 countries with the top 3 being the US, UK and India. But there’s also Jamaica, Botswana, Bahrain, Mongolia and Turks & Caicos. At this point, with the pod running since 2010, I just five more episodes to go before hitting number 600 (at number 595) and I want to thank you for all your support and words of encouragement. I am grateful to have your ...
Jan 05, 2025•1 hr 11 min
Minter Dialogue with Paul Assaiante (re-release of episode 554) "Coach" Paul Assaiante is one of the greatest coaches in the history of intercollegiate athletics. He's labelled as the “winningest coach in college sports history,” sporting a 252-match winning streak over 13 years, a 507-29 all-time record, and winning 17 NCAA Championship titles as head coach at Trinity College. Paul systematically brought together great players from around the world and demonstrated how teammates from diverse cu...
Dec 29, 2024•1 hr 4 min
In this engaging episode, I welcome back Kevin Eikenberry, a repeat guest on the show, to discuss his upcoming book, "Flexible Leadership: Navigate Uncertainty and Lead with Confidence," set for release in early 2025. We explore the critical role of confidence in leadership, especially amidst today's chaotic and fast-paced world. Kevin shares insights on the importance of self-awareness and the often-overlooked value of confidence in leadership development. We delve into the concept of sense-mak...
Dec 22, 2024•1 hr 1 min•Ep. 595
In this episode, I had the pleasure of hosting two-time Stanley Cup champion and former Philadelphia Flyers player, Daniel Carcillo. Daniel shares his transformative journey from a violent and angry NHL player to a person deeply connected to nature and consciousness. He discusses the pivotal role of natural mushrooms in his healing process, which helped him overcome brain health issues and become the best version of himself. We explore the power of psychedelics in personal growth and the importa...
Dec 15, 2024•1 hr 15 min•Ep. 594
In this episode, I welcome Oleksandr Buratynskyi, a dynamic founder and executive coach based in Kyiv. Oleksandr shares his journey from a diverse career background, including roles in IT, logistics, and travel blogging, to becoming a startup founder and volunteer amidst the challenges of war in Ukraine. He is currently founder and CEO of tTravel.me, an app that allows travellers to keep all their itinerary and memories together in one location. We explore his role as a Jooble Agile Coach, where...
Dec 08, 2024•59 min•Ep. 593
In this 592nd episode of the Minter Dialogue podcast, I sit down with Justin Jones-Fosu, founder and CEO of Work Meaningful, to explore the intersection of meaningful work and inclusion. Justin shares his journey as a global citizen, husband, and father, and discusses his latest book, "I Respectfully Disagree: How to Have Difficult Conversations in a Divided World." We dive into the concept of meaningful work, challenging the notion that it must always bring happiness, and instead focusing on pu...
Dec 01, 2024•1 hr 10 min•Ep. 592
In this episode, I had the pleasure of welcoming back Maria Garrido, a dynamic individual who juggles multiple roles with grace and enthusiasm. Maria describes herself as a "hyperactive queenager," a term she embraces as she navigates her life as a mother of three, a multilingual Paris resident, and the Chief Marketing Officer of Deezer. We delved into her approach to maintaining cultural relevance in the music streaming industry, emphasising the importance of credibility and staying attuned to ...
Nov 24, 2024•1 hr•Ep. 591
Minter Dialogue with Sara Ismail-Beigi Bartlett In this episode, I sit down with Sara Ismail-Beigi Bartlett, a dynamic HR consultant and executive coach based in Cleveland. We explore her unexpected journey from aspiring mechanical engineer to a leader in organisational behaviour and change management. Sara shares insights into the challenges and opportunities within the HR landscape, emphasising the importance of understanding the psychological aspects of change. We also delve into her podcast,...
Nov 17, 2024•53 min•Ep. 590
