Zoë Routh Leadership Podcast

My guest this week is author and expert in business and finance, Chris Lautenslager. We talk about Chris’ book The Prosperity Loop and explore his views on purpose-driven business and capitalism. We get into the importance of building relationships, adapting to change, and creating shared prosperity in business. Chris believes that businesses should focus on enhancing the value of the people they work with, including customers, vendors, and the community. This people-oriented approach, he suggests, is key to thriving in today's changing world. We also step through Chris’ wealth creation model for socially conscious leaders that aims to find a balance between people and profits.    Shownotes See more at http://www.zoerouth.com/podcast/future-leadership-chris-lautenslager    Key Moments  Planet Human: The World Economic Forum's latest report on the future of jobs. [00:00:04] Planet Zoë: Olympus Bound off to the editor [00:01:24] Introducing Chris Lautenslager  [00:03:40] Zoe introduces Chris, an author and exp

Tom Fox is literally the guy who wrote the book on compliance, with his international best seller The Compliance Handbook now into its third edition. Also going by the monikers of Compliance Evangelist™ and the Voice of Compliance, Tom is unequivocally committed to compliance!  In my conversation with Tom we delve right into the compliance landscape and its impact on leadership. We move from macro to micro issues, encompassing ethical business practices, the relationship between compliance and remuneration, the push for ESG, to international affairs, global trade practices and the role of technology in enabling transparency and accountability. From contingency planning to consistency of approach, the tentacles of compliance reach much further than even I imagined!   Shownotes See more at http://www.zoerouth.com/podcast/leadership-compliance-tom-fox Key Moments  Planet Human: The Future of Food [00:00:31] Planet Zoë: Running and Gratitude [00:01:17] Compliance and leadership  [00:03:48] Meet Tom Fox, a compli

In this episode, I’m welcoming back friend of the pod and productivity expert Donna McGeorge. We talk about Donna’s latest book The ChatGPT Revolution, including, in a very meta moment, how AI helped her write that book!  Donna shares her experience with ChatGPT and its productivity benefits plus we also get into the biases in AI, the limitations of AI and the importance of human editing and critical thinking in getting the most out of these tools. If you’re curious about how AI can boost your productivity and how it can augment how you lead, learn and develop, Donna shares practical insights from content creation to decision-making.  Shownotes See more at: http://www.zoerouth.com/podcast/leadership-future-donna-mcgeorge Key Moments  Planet Human: The Allbirds Moonshot shoe [00:00:04] The world's first net zero carbon shoe made from regenerative farmed wool.   Using ChatGPT for productivity [00:02:28] Introduction of Donna McGeorge and her book "The ChatGPT Revolution" discussing how to use ChatGPT for lea

In a career that from the outside appears to zig and zag across journalism, law and philanthropy, Laura Fredricks saw a through line : asking questions and listening, really listening, to the answers. Laura went on to develop the ‘ask’ framework and has written seven books about it, with her latest - Hard Asks Made Easy - already a bestseller.  Laura has an amazing approach to hard asks, from the secret sauce of specificity to reframing an ask as giving someone an opportunity to help. In this conversation she shares her five laws of hard asks plus a simple formula for the moment of the ‘ask’ Hearing them is like a light suddenly turning on in that dark corner of our brain where we file away asking for help, a pay rise or promotion - anything at all! So, if you want to take the fear and embarrassment out of asking for things, I’m asking you to listen to this episode, right now… Shownotes See more at http://www.zoerouth.com/podcast/leadership-asks-laura-fredricks   Key Moments  Planet Human: The rebranding of T

Brace yourself! Here's a bold statement: Sometimes, simplicity is the secret ingredient for long-term success in strategic planning. That is just one of the leadership insights from my guest, entrepreneur, author and master of the quick iteration, Brandon White.  We talk about how we can make strategic planning easier and faster, the importance of exceptional customer service and simplifying the process of writing a business plan, as per Brandon’s book series: Back of the Napkin.  We also get into the misconceptions surrounding AI in business, the future potential of technology, the complicated genius of Elon Musk and how to get busy being a problem-solving leadership role model! Shownotes See more at: http://www.zoerouth.com/podcast/leadership-principles-brandon-white Key Moments  Planet Human: China's progress in wind and solar energy [00:00:29] Planet Zoë: On the slopes [00:01:17] Brandon White’s winding journey and entrepreneurial ventures [00:03:12] From being a fisherman to starting a magazine, transit

Want to hear two passionate Canadians riffing about the systems that are not designed to support parity, equity or inclusion? You got it! My guest this week, Katherine Lazarus, shares her leadership journey from teaching music and singing opera to becoming an executive coach. We delve into the concept of executive presence - what it is and whether it is still relevant in today's world. We discuss the meaning of feeling empowered (and why that can be a cringeworthy word), the importance of balanced leadership and responsible exercise of power.  This is a conversation that illuminates hidden challenges manifest in the changing dynamics of leadership and why we need a new leadership paradigm that embraces diversity and authenticity. We also touch on the challenges faced by leaders in adapting to these changes and the power of vulnerability in creating a supportive and inclusive workplace. It’s a truly fascinating way to look at the evolution of leadership!  Shownotes See more at http://www.zoerouth.com/podcast/l

  This is a deeply reflective episode where I consider my 53 years on this planet and share some non-obvious introspective questions that will help you to look at where you are, where you came from and where you want to go next. As well as contemplating what the book of your life would be titled! I also get into the importance of addressing long-term strategic questions and not just focusing on urgent priorities. That's my mission as a leader - to help others navigate both the present and the future. I have an upcoming event around strategic conversations where I encourage leaders to ask those challenging questions and find solutions. Shownotes See more at http://www.zoerouth.com/podcast/future-leadership-reflections Key Moments  Luminaries App and Copyright Concerns [00:01:14]   AI Avatars and the Future of Service Professionals  [00:04:48]   The tactical overrides the strategic and leadership priorities [00:10:27]   Asking challenging questions for personal reflection [00:11:40]   Identity and aspirations

In this episode I get to geek out with my guest, Jonathan Green, an author and celebrity ghostwriter. We delve into the use of AI tools in writing and productivity. I share my experience using AI tools like ChatGPT to enhance my writing process, while Jonathan talks about his experience with Descript and his interest in AI. We discuss the benefits of AI tools in improving productivity, managing teams, and generating creative ideas. We also touch on the importance of asking specific questions and setting context for AI tools to provide relevant information. Jonathan emphasises the affordability and accessibility of AI tools and the potential shift in how technology is used. From Jonathan’s perspective, AI is not just a buzzword; it's a game-changer. Shownotes See more at http://www.zoerouth.com/podcast/leadership-ai-jonathan-green   Key Moments  Planet Human [00:00:04] Discussing the growing pay gap between CEOs and workers, with statistics from 1978 to 2021.   Planet Zoë  [00:01:34] Using AI tools for writing

Constance Dierickx, PhD, professionally known as The Decision Doctor®, and author of Meta Leadership, joins me for a discussion about the fascinating topic of leadership decision-making processes.  We make hundreds of decisions every day, from the inconsequential to the major, transformational ones. But how often do we stop to consider how and why we made our decisions? In this episode we dive into the importance of reflecting on decision-making processes and look at the organisational habits that influence decisions. Constance and I explore the relationship between discomfort, emotion, and strategy, and even venture into using scepticism as a positive. With practical applications and high-level leadership concepts, Constance shares valuable insights for leaders looking to improve their decision-making skills.  Shownotes See more at http://www.zoerouth.com/podcast/leadership-decisions-constance-dierickx Key Moments  00:00:05 Innovative protein made from air and water. 00:04:15 Discovering decision science, st

After we bond over our love of canoeing and the wonder of wide open water, technologist and author Jeff Ton and I go on a leadership journey from the future, to the past and back again! We explore the impact of technology and culture on the future of work, including the potential  impact of generative AI platforms, the pandemic, and virtual reality in changing the way we work. We also touch on the importance of blockchain and transparency in creating a more inclusive and equitable world. We also delve into the power of journaling as a leadership tool, the challenge of keeping up with rapidly changing technology, and we have fun reimaging - and repurposing - office buildings. This is a conversation to pique curiosity and expand leadership perspectives with our exploratory ‘could’ questions about how we lead in a way that is fit for the future.   Shownotes See more at http://www.zoerouth.com/podcast/leadership-future-jeff-ton   Key Moments  Planet Human  [00:00:04] Discussion on the banning of certain education

We’ve introduced some new features to the podcast which kick-off this week for my interview with Rob Crispe, general manager of IP Australia. I start with ‘Planet Human’ - what’s having an impact on our life and leadership this week? Then moving swiftly on to ‘Planet Zoe’ - writing, program and events updates from your truly. My fascinating chat with Rob is paused for ‘Fast Five’ - a quick fire question and answer round which Rob navigates with aplomb!  Rob is honest and open about what it takes to cultivate leadership that’s fit for the future and build a sustainable culture. We traverse honestly, authenticity, vulnerability, learning from failure by way of maintaining our leadership values in a toxic environment and, ultimately, deciding: are we part of the problem or part of the solution? Be inspired by the story of courageous leadership and knowing when to leave a toxic environment. Shownotes See more at http://www.zoerouth.com/podcast/leadership-values-rob-crispe   Key Moments  Planet Human: AI Integrati

What makes good character? And how do we discover our character? Doing hard things is a place to start. Finding out what we are capable of and then asking ourselves what else can we do? I call it an explorer’s mindset. It’s why I take on big challenges - and you can too.  In this solosode I share updates, recommendations and explore the three pillars of kindness, curiosity and courage that we can demonstrate every day in our leadership actions.  Shownotes See more at  http://www.zoerouth.com/podcast/leadership-character   Key Moments  What Makes Good Character? [00:00:01]  Zoë reflects on previous guests and shares her theory of character, which includes compassion, curiosity, and courage.   Training AI on Ethical Frameworks [00:00:42]  Zoë discusses a start-up that is training an AI assistant on ethical responses using documents like the Constitution and the Bill of Rights.   Personal News and Book Recommendations [00:02:48]  Zoë shares personal news about planning a hiking trip and progress on writing a boo

Whatever is happening in the exciting world of technological development, it is being done by, for and to humans, so I immediately loved the title of my guest Kamales Lardi’s book: The Human Side of Digital Business Transformation. Kamales is a global thought leader in digital transformation who is passionate about shining a light on the human ecosystems at the heart of all things digital. We get into the overwhelming nature of digital transformation and the perennial question of ‘where to start’. With her positive and pragmatic outlook, Kamales highlights the transformative potential of blockchain technology beyond finance, such as providing transparency and traceability in the supply chain, creating identities for undocumented people, and free travel across regions. This is grounded in the importance of businesses embracing ethical practices and strategic thinking to transform their businesses and make a bigger impact. Technology can transform - but we must also transform our leadership.  Shownotes See more

Full disclosure, my guest this week is my niece Iman Kibukamusoke so I am already a huge fan! I think you will be too when you hear about the remarkable breadth and depth of experience Iman has accrued in her 23 years and how she is using it to shape the future of work from the inside. Iman is a consultant at EY in Canberra, a student, a volunteer and an active participant in her community. She has some whip-smart observations about workplace structures, leadership styles, what young people bring to the table and where they are not being given a voice.  We talk about generational differences, identity, diversity, and equity, as well as Iman’s experiences with different types of leaders. Iman shares her aspirations for a workplace that values the individual and prioritises creating a psychologically safe environment where everyone feels comfortable being themselves. If you thought Gen Z has nothing to add to the leadership conversation, this interview will make you think again! Shownotes See more at: http://ww

Rohit Bhargava, entrepreneur, speaker, author, and founder of the Non-Obvious Company, has, with fellow trendwatcher Henry Coutinho-Mason, put a new book out into the world that aims to provide the opposite of outlandish predictions. The Future Normal instead focuses on trends related to human needs and inclusivity. Rohit brings a pragmatic approach to the future of leadership. He highlights the importance of leaders experiencing things first hand to help with understanding the strengths and limitations of AI and to focus on the human needs that cannot be replaced by technology. He also talks about the need for leaders to consider the ethics and inclusivity of the products and technologies they create and shares habits that leaders can adopt to be nimble, agile, ethical, and inclusive. Shownotes See more at: http://www.zoerouth.com/podcast/leadership-trends-rohit-bhargava   Key Moments  Human needs and inclusivity [00:08:04] Discussion of trends related to human needs and how successful innovations will becom

Welcome to this solosode that wraps up the current season and its theme of Leading Culture. I’m moving past the term meta-modern leadership (because, how helpful is that really?) and instead considering leadership in terms of how can we be more compassionate? How can we be more inclusive in our leadership thinking? And how can we navigate diversity, complexity, and ambiguity better? Thinking strategically, as a team, as an organisation, is one way to make sure we move forward in the right direction but this is a huge challenge for leaders. The response to my recent Fit For The Future event was a clear indication that this is a major struggle for many. So, I share my insights into common blockers to thinking strategically and offer some practical things to help you and your team move past them. Plus, book reviews, guest previews, a Coronation and colonisation conversation, and more - to remind us of the rich tapestry of this life that we get to live!    Shownotes See more at http://www.zoerouth.com/podcast/lea

Reading is a passport to the world! And nobody is more well-travelled when it comes to books than Dr Danny Brassell - former teacher, founder of The Reading Habit , a global reading engagement platform, and author of 16 business and education titles. Danny believes in the power of books for not just learning and development but also for connection and inspiration. He has strategies and insights for everything from getting kids excited about reading to helping leaders prioritise reading and using books to supercharge presentations and leadership perspectives. Being a book lover does not preclude embracing technology - Danny shares ways to use technology to help build reading habits and track progress. We can read for entertainment, education, empathy, empowerment… in the words of Danny: read, lead, succeed!  Shownotes See more at http://www.zoerouth.com/podcast/leadership-reading-danny-brassell Key Moments  Getting kids excited about reading [00:04:47] Strategies for getting kids excited about reading based

Are you curious - worried even - about the future of technology and its implications for leadership? Brett King, author of The Rise of Techno-Socialism and host of The Futurists podcast, has some insights for you about, among other things, the impact of AI on the labour market, and the potential of cryptocurrency. A true global citizen, Brett has lived and worked in Australia, Hong Kong, Dubai, and the United States and travels the world talking about the future of technology and humanity. In this episode, he proposes the idea of "optimal humanity," where humans have a collective mission to compete for the future of humanity and accelerate advances in technology and exploration. Ultimately optimistic about the future, Brett believes that with the right leadership mindset and an adaptable approach, we can create better outcomes for all and take advantage of all the opportunities the future holds. Shownotes See more at http://www.zoerouth.com/podcast/leadership-future-brett-king Key moments Rise of Techno-Socia

Has our pursuit of professionalism usurped our innate social abilities to work collectively and creatively for the greater good?  Samantha Slade, author, social designer and cultural anthropologist, believes so and is working with organisations and teams to help them rebalance their leadership paradigms and flatten their hierarchies. While this is not a ‘perfect or easy journey’, Sam taps into what she sees as our core human instincts of care and togetherness that have been smothered by corporate structures. Making her work both hopeful and insightful is the way it braids the three strands of past, present and future paradigms  into a new way of leading, teaming and performing.  Shownotes See more at: http://www.zoerouth.com/podcast/leadership-paradigm-sam-slade Key moments 3:13  An amazing origin story - revolution and kidnapping! 10:10  Deep change is required to get horizontal 12:20  Our innate abilities - we know how to be together 14:00  Straddling two leadership paradigms 16:10  Join us in Amplifiers Ac

  We are a third of the way through the year! How does that make you feel? In this solsode I’m confronting the lingering sense of malaise that I’m noticing this year. It’s being sustained by ongoing uncertainty and as leaders we need to have strategies to navigate through difficult times by assessing both the known and the unknown. In this episode I explore three leadership truisms that will help you balance risk and opportunity with a sense of possibility - because even when times are tough, it’s important to expand our leadership perspective and remember we are all part of the bigger, beautiful picture! Shownotes See more at http://www.zoerouth.com/podcast/leadership-perspective-truisms    Key moments 1:00 Personal update: connection, comedy and writing progress 3:30 The leadership pendulum swings with uncertainty 4:20 Self-aware leadership principles 5:00 AI reality check 5:50 Establishing values to protect humanity and the planet 6:55 Looking for opportunities - previous guests help show the way 8:55 Thr