After Dinner Leadership

Join Simon around the After Dinner Leadership table with Nima Rahmany, Nervous System & Attachment Facilitator and Founder of Become Trigger Proof. In this episode, Nima Rahmany shares how his journey from chiropractor to leadership teacher was shaped by a codependent relationship, a violent breakup, and a turning point that forced him to study the space between stimulus and response. From there, he built the idea of becoming trigger-proof—not by suppressing emotion, but by learning how t...

Join Simon around the After Dinner Leadership table with Natalie Johnson, Co-Founder & Chief Visionary at Vidl Work, and Co-Author of Leading the Culture Journey. What does it take to build a healthier workplace culture? In this episode, Natalie reflects on an early leadership experience where frustration, blame, and gossip helped create an accidental culture that eventually felt toxic. She explains how leaders can focus on the influence they do have, speak honestly through difficult mome...

Join Simon around the After Dinner Leadership table with Ryan Spoors, Account Executive at Redo. Simon and Ryan sit together for a thoughtful, candid conversation as Ryan prepares to move on to a new role and a new industry. After years behind the scenes helping shape the podcast, Ryan turns the tables and reflects on what hundreds of hours of listening to leaders has taught him. You will hear Ryan unpack three themes that show up again and again in great leaders: Why listening is a skill you...

Join Simon around the After Dinner Leadership table with George Costard, Managing Director of DEKA Life Sciences. In this episode, Simon and George explore why creating a strong hiring culture is essential to building a successful business - and the true cost of getting it wrong. They discuss knowing when it’s okay not to have all the answers, what good performance metrics really look like, and how the right people can shape the success of a business. Whether you’re a business leader, aspirin...

Join Simon around the After Dinner Leadership table with Zoë Thompson, Strategic Leadership Consultant and Coach. In this episode, we explore how to find your unique leadership style, lead with confidence through uncertainty, and elevate your impact in an AI-powered world. Whether you're an emerging leader, or a seasoned executive, you'll leave with fresh perspectives and practical insights to help you lead with authenticity, adaptability, and purpose. Send us Fan Mail Connect with us on Link...

Join Simon around the After Dinner Leadership table with Aleck Jones, CEO & Co-Founder of Kindling Bio. In this episode, Aleck reflects on the leadership lessons he wishes he'd learned earlier, including the importance of becoming comfortable with discomfort and using it as a catalyst for growth. He also shares the inspiring work Kindling Bio is doing to advance children's cancer research, offering a powerful reminder of how purpose can drive innovation and impact. Send us Fan Mail Conn...

Join Simon around the After Dinner Leadership table with Amrit Dhaliwal, CEO of Walfinch. In this episode, Amrit shares insights on the role of mentors in shaping leaders, the value of accountability in driving growth, and why meaningful relationships matter more than material possessions. Together, Simon and Amrit explore the limits of materialism and discuss what it truly means to build a successful and fulfilling life. https://walfinchfranchising.com Send us Fan Mail Connect with us on L...

Joining Simon around the After Dinner Leadership table is Daniel Rellaford. In this episode, we explore The Empowerment Dynamic, a powerful framework that challenges the familiar patterns of drama that can quietly shape our leadership and relationships. Daniel brings clarity and depth to the roles we often fall into, and offers a compelling alternative: one grounded in ownership, creativity, and purposeful action. Pull up a seat and join the conversation! Send us Fan Mail Connect with us on L...

In this episode, Simon is joined at the After Dinner Leadership table by his childhood friend, Grant Watling, Portfolio Chief Customer Officer at Hg. Drawing on a successful career, Grant reflects on the three leadership lessons he wishes he had learned much earlier. Pull up a seat and join the conversation. Grant Watling Send us Fan Mail Connect with us on LinkedIn Follow us on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube If you would like to feature on the Podcast, please get in touch! ...

Joining Simon around the After Dinner Leadership table is founder of Build Yourself, Maya Sharfi, who shares practical insights to help professionals take their next step without burning out. They also explore how to leverage AI in career advancement. What's Between You and Your Next Level Role Quiz https://buildyourselfworkshop.com/ADL Maya Sharfi - Linkedin Send us Fan Mail Connect with us on LinkedIn Follow us on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube If you would like to feature on ...

Join us around the virtual After Dinner Leadership table as Simon explores the concept of antifragility. The idea that individuals and systems can grow stronger through challenge and adversity. Drawing inspiration from Jonathan Haidt’s book The Anxious Generation, Simon reflects on what this idea means for leaders today, and why resilience alone may no longer be enough in a world that often shields people from difficulty. Send us Fan Mail Connect with us on LinkedIn Follow us on Instagram S...

In this episode, Simon is joined around the After Dinner Leadership table by Andy Freed. A Business executive, board chair, leadership advisor, and author of Lead Like The Boss, for a compelling conversation on leadership through the lens of one of music’s most enduring icons. Andy explains why Bruce Springsteen isn’t just a legendary performer, but a truly exceptional leader and someone who has inspired generations not only through his music, but through the way he leads his band, connects w...

In this bitesize episode of the After Dinner Leadership Podcast, our host Simon reflects on what it truly means to Bring Light — both in the choices we make as leaders and in the way we show up for others. Through quiet intention and everyday actions, Simon explores how choosing light can shape our leadership and the cultures we create. Pull up a chair and join the conversation. Send us Fan Mail Connect with us on LinkedIn Follow us on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube If you would...

In this episode of After Dinner Leadership, Simon is joined by Amy Jacobson, author of The Emotional Intelligence Advantage, to explore why EQ is essential for leaders. Amy shares five practical steps to strengthen emotional intelligence, from building self-awareness to improving relationships and handling pressure with greater clarity. Packed with real-world insights and actionable ideas, this conversation shows how anyone can develop the skills at the heart of effective leadership. Pull up ...

Pull up a chair and join in as Simon and Ryan discuss their word for the year in 2026 and what excites them heading into the new year. Send us Fan Mail Connect with us on LinkedIn Follow us on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube If you would like to feature on the Podcast, please get in touch! mailto: info@withleadership.co.uk Thank you for listening!

Join us around the After Dinner Leadership table as we talk about all things 2025 and reflect on the journey of this podcast and some of the interesting things we have read and listened to this year. Pull up a seat and join the conversation. Send us Fan Mail Connect with us on LinkedIn Follow us on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube If you would like to feature on the Podcast, please get in touch! mailto: info@withleadership.co.uk Thank you for listening!

In this episode of the After Dinner Leadership podcast, Simon sits down with Amos Balongo, a keynote speaker and communication coach. Together, they explore the lessons Amos wishes he had learned earlier in his leadership journey and the transformative power of giving back to help aspiring leaders thrive. Pull up a seat and join the conversation! Send us Fan Mail Connect with us on LinkedIn Follow us on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube If you would like to feature on the Podcast, ...

In this episode, we return to episode 87 and delve more deeply into the three leadership lessons Greg McKeown wishes he had learnt earlier and he shares insights that continue to shape his thinking and his work. Pull up a chair and join the conversation. Send us Fan Mail Connect with us on LinkedIn Follow us on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube If you would like to feature on the Podcast, please get in touch! mailto: info@withleadership.co.uk Thank you for listeni...

Joining Simon on this episode of After Dinner Leadership is Carolina Pola, CEO of STAb Therapeutics. Together, they talk about the importance of being intentional with how we spend our time and the value of being truly present. They also explore the power of belief — and how leaders serve as purveyors of hope. Pull up a chair and join the conversation. Carolina Pola Send us Fan Mail Connect with us on LinkedIn Follow us on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube If you would like to feat...

Joining Simon around the After Dinner Leadership table is business strategist Terry Healey, who at just 21 was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer that left him with a facial difference. Together, they explore how gratitude shapes true resilience and the powerful lessons Terry has learned along the way. Terry Healey The Resilience Mindset Send us Fan Mail Connect with us on LinkedIn Follow us on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube If you would like to feature on the Podcast, please ...

Joining Simon around the virtual dinner table in this episode is communication strategist and author Maria Garaitonandia. Together, they explore the three lessons she wishes she’d learned earlier in her career and delve into how her CLEAR framework helps untangle the complexities of communication. Pull up a chair and join the conversation. Maria Garaitonandia Untangling Communication Send us Fan Mail Connect with us on LinkedIn Follow us on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube If you ...

Joining Simon at the After Dinner Leadership table is Niels Jensen, who currently leads the DACH region for C3 AI. Together, Simon and Niels explore the pivotal experiences from Niels’ successful career that have shaped his approach to management and leadership. Their conversation touches on the power of being fully present in our interactions and the enduring importance of human connection in an increasingly digital world. Pull up a chair and join the conversation! Send us Fan Mail Connect w...

Joining Simon around the After Dinner Leadership table is a Leadership and Family Coach, and author of The Elephant in the Family Room. Together, they explore the unique dynamics of working within family-owned businesses, uncovering both the legal frameworks that safeguard success and the emotional regulation that sustains relationships. Pull up a seat and join this insightful conversation. Rene Sonneveld The Elephant in the Family Room Send us Fan Mail Connect with us on LinkedIn Follow us ...

Joining Simon around the After Dinner Leadership table is Joe Davis, a former Boston Consulting Group Managing Director & Senior Partner who once led BCG’s operations across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico and served on the firm’s Executive Committee. Together, they explore the generous leader, offering direct feedback as a gift, discerning the right moment to give it, and embracing deep, patient listening as the quiet acts that create space for others to truly flourish. Joe Davis - Li...

Returning around the virtual dinner table with Simon Fagg is Tim Lupinacci, CEO of Baker Donaldson. Together, they explore the idea of “leadership aroma” - the atmosphere leaders create through the way they show up each day. Tim shares the journaling practices that help him lead with intention, and draws on themes from his new book Everybody’ Leads. Everybody Leads Tim Lupinacci Send us Fan Mail Connect with us on LinkedIn Follow us on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube If you would...

Pull up a chair for another serving of After Dinner Leadership, as Simon welcomes returning guest Alex Porter back to the table. After years at the helm of the Essex Rebels volleyball programme, Alex has recently stepped away from coaching – and in this reflective and energising conversation, he shares the lessons he’s taking with him from the journey. Together, they explore the realities of building a performance culture, leading young adults, and some of the proud dad moments from Alex's ti...

Pull up a chair and join Simon around the After Dinner Leadership table as he’s joined by Hillary Spiritos, founder of Bat Outta Hell. In this episode, Simon and Hillary explore what it really means to lead with authenticity—especially in the often uncertain years of early adulthood and the first steps of a career. Hillary shares her love of motivational sport films and how she helps her clients to identify and lead with their values first rather than conforming to social norms or expectation...

Joining Simon around the After Dinner Leadership table is Salvatore Manzi, a renowned communications coach and author of Clear and Compelling. Salvatore shares the three leadership lessons he wishes he’d learned earlier and unpacks his personal mantra, “It is not about me.” Together, they explore how this mindset shapes better leadership, the role of healing and forgiveness in personal growth, and how these ideas come to life in his work and writing. Clear and Compelling Playbook Send us Fan ...

Joining Simon around the After Dinner Leadership table is Logan Naidu, Founder and group CEO of Kernel Global, a trailblazer in the world of recruitment. In this insightful and thought-provoking conversation, they explore the future of recruiting in the age of AI, discuss how faith shapes leadership and decisions at work, and reflect on the powerful connection between personal growth and business success. Tune in for an episode full of practical takeaways and heartfelt wisdom for ...

In this episode, joining Simon around the After Dinner Leaderrship table is returning guest Oscar Trimboli. The pair dive deep into the evolving role of AI and transcription technology in the art of listening. Together, they explore how these tools can either enhance or hinder our ability to truly connect and how our own energy shapes our listening presence. Pull up a seat around the virtual dinner table and listen in for practical insights and reflections on how to stay fully present i...

Joining Simon around the After Dinner Leadership table this week is Jared Keir — entrepreneur and founder of Fellow Humans. They talk about what it means to chase impact over profit, the power of just getting started, and how building real connections can open doors. From honest lessons in starting out to how networks help us grow, Jared shares his take on leadership that puts people first. Jared Keir Send us Fan Mail Connect with us on LinkedIn Follow us on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube&n...

In this episode of the After Dinner Leadership podcast, Simon is joined around the virtual dinner table by vocal facilitator and “empowerist” James Sills. Together, they explore the transformative power of music—especially singing—as a tool for fostering connection and authenticity. James shares three leadership lessons he wishes he’d learned earlier in his journey: it’s okay to be yourself, seek support when you need it, and setting clear boundaries. Pull up a chair and join the conversation...

In this episode of After Dinner Leadership, Simon is joined around the After Dinner Leadership Table by university lecturer Andrea Di Vetta. With a front-line view from the lecture theatre, Andrea shares fresh insights into how young people see leadership and what they’re challenging us to rethink. They explore leadership misconceptions and the power of reflection in learning. Pull up a chair and join the conversation. Send us Fan Mail Connect with us on LinkedIn Follow us on Instagram Subs...

Joining Simon around the After Dinner virtual table is author and thought leader Stephen M. R. Covey. Together, they reflect on the life lessons Stephen learned from his parents, including his father, Stephen R. Covey, and explore the transformative power of Trust. They discuss building self-trust, the impact of keeping commitments, and the importance of extending trust as a leader, especially the courage it takes to go first. Episode Links: Speed of Trust Trust & Inspire Stephen M. R. Co...

Joining Simon around the virtual After Dinner Leadership table is Rachel Varrilly Gierula, coach tutor and executive coach. In this episode, Rachel shares her inspiring journey from her previous career into the world of coaching, reflecting on the profound transformation that led her to where she is today. Together, they explore the power of coaching as a life skill, uncovering how it can unlock potential, deepen relationships, and empower others to thrive. Whether you're a leader looking to ...

To celebrate 100 episodes of The After Dinner Leadership Podcast, Simon gathers around the virtual dinner table to reflect on the podcast's origin story, highlight key lessons shared by our incredible guests, and reinforce our mission to inspire aspiring leaders to recognise that they can lead now. Pull up a chair and join the conversation. Send us Fan Mail Connect with us on LinkedIn Follow us on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube If you would like to feature on the Podcast, please...

In this episode of After Dinner Leadership, Simon sits down with Spencer Holt, Chief Experience and People Officer at Merlin Entertainment. Together, they explore the three leadership lessons Spencer wishes he had learned sooner and dive into the power of energy, the meaning of 'soulful curiosity,' and the journey to finding purpose. They also discuss the vital role communities play in shaping our lives. Pull up a chair and join the conversation! Spencer Holt Small Things Make A Big Differenc...

In this episode of After Dinner Leadership, Simon is joined by the esteemed international speaker, board member, and author, Stephanie Chung. Together, they delve into the three leadership lessons Stephanie wishes she had learned earlier and uncover how we can elevate those around us by leading with intention—asking, listening, learning, and taking meaningful action. Pull up a chair and be part of the conversation! Ally Leadership: How to Lead People Who Are Not Like You Stephanie Chung Sen...

In this episode of After Dinner Leadership, Simon is joined by executive coach and founder of ConsultF5, Daryl Watson. Together, they uncover the three leadership lessons Daryl wishes he had learned sooner, dive into the power of coaching and goal setting, and explore his disciplined journaling habit—revealing the profound impact it has had on his journey. Pull up a seat and join the conversation! Send us Fan Mail Connect with us on LinkedIn Follow us on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube ...

In this episode, joining Simon around the After Dinner Leadership table is inclusion strategist Vivian Acquah. Together, they explore the three critical leadership lessons Vivian wishes she had learned earlier and dive deep into the unseen challenges that people face in the workplace. Vivian shares practical insights into creating inclusive workplaces and highlights key areas where leaders can elevate their impact by fostering belonging and representation. Pull up a seat and join the ...

Join us around the virtual dinner table with Antonia Bowring, author of The ADHD Success Planner, as we dive into the principles of planning, prioritising, and being truly effective. Antonia shares valuable insights from her new book on how to manage time and tasks with clarity and focus, offering practical strategies for overcoming distractions and staying on track. Whether you're navigating ADHD or simply looking to enhance your productivity, this conversation is filled with wisdom to help...

Join us around the After Dinner Leadership table as Simon reflects on the year gone by, sharing three standout leadership lessons he’s recognised in 2024. Pull up a chair and be part of this conversation as we set the table for an astonishing 2025! Send us Fan Mail Connect with us on LinkedIn Follow us on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube If you would like to feature on the Podcast, please get in touch! mailto: info@withleadership.co.uk Thank you for li...

Who is the self we should be true to, and how do we figure that out? Join us around the virtual dinner table with Barry, the Chief Encouragement Officer at The Strength of 10. Barry shares powerful leadership lessons he wishes he had learned earlier: focusing on being true to yourself, listening with purpose, and realising that leadership isn’t about popularity but credibility. Pull up a seat and join the conversation! Barry Rellaford Contact Barry: barryrellaford@mac.com Send us F...

Join us around the virtual dinner table with 12x World Champion and triple Paralympic gold medalist Emma Wiggs MBE. In this inspiring episode, we explore Emma's journey of resilience and choice, the power of defining values, and embracing diversity in leadership and life. Send us Fan Mail Connect with us on LinkedIn Follow us on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube If you would like to feature on the Podcast, please get in touch! mailto: info@withleadership.co.uk Thank you...

In this short but powerful episode, host Simon Fagg shares the heart and soul of After Dinner Leadership. Discover why this podcast was created, why the podcast is called what it is and how it aims to inspire leaders at every stage of their journey to lead with purpose and mentor with patience. Join us as we set the stage for a new season of valuable insights from extremely inspiring individuals. Send us Fan Mail Connect with us on LinkedIn Follow us on Instagram Subscribe on YouTube ...

You can’t delegate your presence. In this episode of After Dinner Leadership, Simon sits down with author Randy Gravitt to delve into the balancing act between work and home life and how we can be truly present in each. Randy also reveals three leadership lessons he wishes he’d learned earlier, offering practical insights to help us bring our best selves to both work and home. Show Links Winning begins at home Lead Every Day Send us Fan Mail Connect with us on LinkedIn Follow us on Instagra...

One year ago, Simon welcomed author, speechwriter, and renowned speaker Simon Lancaster to the virtual After Dinner Leadership table. In their conversation, Simon shared insights into the power of rhetoric and, more broadly, the vital role communication plays in effective leadership. In this bite-sized episode, we explore Simon’s six steps for a powerful speech, discover tips for helping our children become better communicators, and uncover the often-overlooked strategy that can elevate your ...

In this episode of The After Dinner Leadership Podcast, Simon is joined by New York Times bestselling author and speaker Greg McKeown. In part two, they dive into Essentialism and Effortless, two of Greg’s bestselling books that guide you in the disciplined pursuit of less and making it easier to focus on what truly matters. Greg Mckeown Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less Effortless: Make it Easier to Do What Matters Most The Greg Mckeown Podcast Send us Fan Mail Connect with us o...

In this episode of The After Dinner Leadership Podcast, Simon is joined by New York Times bestselling author and speaker Greg McKeown. In part one, Greg discusses the three key leadership lessons he wishes he had learned sooner and opens up about his most important relationship. Greg Mckeown Essentialism: The Disciplined Pursuit of Less Effortless: Make it Easier to Do What Matters Most The Greg Mckeown Podcast Send us Fan Mail Connect with us on LinkedIn Follow us on Instagram Subscribe...

In this episode of After Dinner Leadership, Simon is joined by Founder of SightCET and Executive Coach Irene Riad, who shares the three leadership lessons she wishes she had learned sooner: letting go of others' opinions, not taking failure personally, and the power of building strong relationships. Irene also discusses the importance of trauma recovery in the workplace and the essence of conscious leadership. Reflect on your journey: How can you reframe failure in your leadership jour...