In this episode, I sit down with Tom Perfrement, investor, tennis enthusiast, and co-founder of 5AM Capital. The conversation dives into Tom’s personal journey—growing up in Canberra, his passion for tennis, and his deep commitment to long-term investing. Together, they explore the contrasting worlds of short-term and long-term strategies in finance, highlighting the philosophical differences and pressures that shape decisions in investment banking and asset management. Tom shares insights into 5AM Capital’s unique philosophy, inspired by early-morning discipline and the company’s roots in Bondi, Sydney. They reflect on recent events impacting the Bondi community, the importance of purpose in business, and the values behind building a boutique investment firm. Throughout the episode, Tom draws parallels between tennis and investing, explaining how having diverse skills and sticking to a personal style can lead to success both on the court and in the market. Listeners will gain thought-provoking perspectives on risk, the power of monopolies and moats in business, and the psychological challenges of navigating volatile markets. Whether you’re an investor, entrepreneur, or business leader, this episode offers actionable insights on building enduring value, staying purposeful, and playing the long game. N.B. The information provided in this podcast is for general information and entertainment purposes only, and is not intended to be financial advice.

In this special episode, host Minter Dial reconnects with celebrated marketing strategist and author David Meerman Scott for their third lively conversation together. As they reflect on their decade-long friendship, David Meerman Scott shares insights from the freshly updated edition of "Marketing Lessons from the Grateful Dead," co-authored with Brian Halligan, co-founder and former CEO of HubSpot. Together, they explore why the unconventional, fan-centric business lessons from the Grateful Dead are more relevant than ever in an age dominated by digital chaos and AI. David Meerman Scott unpacks the enduring legacy of the band, discussing the importance of human connection, fandom, and letting go—both in music and business. The discussion also dives into leadership transitions, from Jerry Garcia’s era to the bold addition of John Mayer, examining how the band’s openness to innovation has kept their music and message alive for new generations. Tune in for a conversation that covers everything from navigating change in business and life to the power of authentic experiences and the wisdom in embracing both risk and generosity. Whether you’re a marketer, a Deadhead, or simply curious about how to build lasting legacies, this episode is packed with stories and actionable insights you won’t want to miss.

In this episode, host Minter Dial sits down with Chris O'Neill, a proud Canadian business leader with a rich and varied background that includes leadership roles at Google, Evernote, and multiple startups across Silicon Valley. Chris O'Neill opens up about his formative experiences working in retail, the value of hard work, and how these lessons shaped his approach to business and parenting. Their conversation dives deep into themes of resilience, team-building, and the importance of staying grounded—even while navigating the pressures of high-profile roles in tech and business. They explore the ways AI is impacting work and society, what it truly means to build strong company culture, and why purpose and authenticity make brands stand out in today’s crowded landscape. Whether you’re curious about leadership, the future of technology, or how personal values shape a career, this episode is packed with insights on playing the long game, fostering meaningful connections, and thriving through change. So grab your headphones and join us for a thought-provoking dialogue that’s equal parts practical advice and inspiration.

In this episode, I’m joined by Professor Jürgen Weigand from WHU – Otto Beisheim School of Management, one of Germany’s most prestigious business schools. We dig into Jurgen Weigand’s fascinating professional journey, from his start in academia and time abroad in the U.S., to his experience as a civil servant in the Netherlands and his influential role in shaping leadership programs at WHU. We chat about the true purpose of education, the importance of meaningful work—no matter what stage you’re at in your career—and the differences between American and German approaches to teaching. Jurgen Weigand also shares insights from his co-authored books, "Hope is Not a Strategy" and "From Chaos to Clarity," and explains why successful strategy is about ownership, humility, and navigating complexity rather than trying to master it. If you’ve ever wondered why so many transformation projects and strategies fail, or how cognitive diversity and strong communication can make all the difference in leadership, you’ll find practical takeaways and plenty of food for thought in our conversation.

Leadership coach Natasha Skolny joins Minter Dial to explore authentic leadership through the lens of her figure skating background. Based in Toronto, Skolny works with high-achieving women seeking to lead on their own terms whilst shedding corporate armour. The conversation examines how sports cultivate self-knowledge, the challenge of balancing authenticity with professional expectations, and why genuine connection matters more than conformity. From navigating social media's impact on future leaders to understanding the difference between being yourself and truly knowing yourself, this episode challenges conventional leadership wisdom whilst emphasising the power of vulnerability and presence in creating meaningful impact. Key Points: 1. Corporate Armour and Authenticity: Women leaders often conform to masculine leadership styles to be heard, particularly in boardrooms. Dropping this protective armour and leading authentically—through vulnerability and genuine connection—creates more impactful leadership than maintaining a protective facade. 2. Conversation as Leadership's Highest Tool: Intentional, present conversations build trust and connection with teams. In an AI-driven world focused on efficiency, creating space for genuine human interaction—understanding what matters to people beyond their work output—distinguishes exceptional leadership from mere management.

Henry King and Vala Afshar, co-authors of Autonomous, join me to explore how AI-first strategies are reshaping business fitness. Henry brings his unique journey from CIO to design thinking expert, whilst Vala shares insights from his decade as Salesforce's chief evangelist. We examine Salesforce's V2MOM framework—a radical transparency tool that aligns 80,000 employees—and discuss why the best implementations often mean resisting customisation. The conversation tackles uncomfortable truths about autonomous vehicles, digital labour, and the erosion of human agency, whilst exploring how companies can eliminate waste through agentic AI. Henry and Vala challenge the notion that relationships will diminish in an AI-driven world, arguing instead that they'll become more critical. We discuss enterprise fitness, the importance of identifying organisational blockages, and why trust—defined as competence plus character—remains the foundation for transformation in an age where we're the last generation managing only people.

Dr. Jack Kreindler, physician, entrepreneur, and physiologist, returns to my podcast to discuss his Antarctic expedition and insights on human resilience. We explore the differences between male and female physiology in extreme environments, the importance of communication and load-sharing in endurance challenges, and the value of embracing discomfort for personal growth. Jack shares his views on developing resilience in modern society, the entrepreneurial mindset, and his work in performance medicine. Our conversation touches on the balance between risk-taking and longevity, the richness of lived experiences, and the importance of creative problem-solving in both business and adventure. Jack's parting wisdom: "Don't die dull."

This podcast features a conversation with Marcin Piróg, an investor, entrepreneur, and former CEO of several companies. Piróg shares insights from his career, including experiences at Carlsberg and LOT Airlines. He discusses the importance of self-discovery, risk-taking, and leadership in business. Piróg also talks about his passion for ultra-marathons and how they contribute to his personal growth. The conversation touches on topics such as corporate transformations, negotiating with major companies, and the challenges of managing state-owned enterprises. Key points: 1. The importance of building a strong team and being transparent as a leader 2. The challenges of managing and transforming state-owned companies

This podcast features a conversation between host Minter Dial and guest Cat Holt, founder and CEO of Coologee. They discuss the importance of branding in today's business landscape, exploring how it impacts company performance, employee engagement, and customer relationships. Cat shares insights from her experience in the insurance industry, particularly her work at Progressive. The discussion touches on the challenges of integrating brand strategy into data-driven organisations and the role of AI in marketing and branding. Key points: 1. Brand is crucial for companies to outperform competitors and create meaningful connections with customers. 2. The importance of maintaining humanity and intuition in branding decisions, even as data and AI play increasingly significant roles.

This podcast explores the complexities of personal identity, change, and leadership through the lens of literature and storytelling. Edward Nelson, a lawyer and actor turned coach, discusses how archetypes and polarities can be used to understand ourselves and facilitate organisational change. The conversation delves into the challenges of authenticity, the power of empathy, and the importance of risk-taking in leadership. Edward shares insights from his work using Shakespeare's plays, particularly Henry V, to help leaders navigate difficult decisions and team dynamics. Key points: 1. Stories and archetypes provide a safe way to explore personal and organisational challenges. 2. Effective leadership requires balancing empathy with the ability to take risks and make unpopular decisions.

This episode features my conversation with guest Ravi Kathuria, exploring spirituality, business, and personal growth. Kathuria shares his perspective on the universe, emphasising that we are all part of it. He discusses the importance of finding inner peace and experiencing one's life force as the essence of spirituality. The dialogue touches on balancing ambition with humility, the pitfalls of obsession, and the need to enjoy the present moment rather than constantly chasing future outcomes. Key points: 1. Spirituality is defined as experiencing one's own life force, accessible to everyone regardless of background or beliefs. 2. Success and happiness in both life and business stem from maintaining a peaceful and calm mind.

I had the pleasure of interviewing Jason Zimmerman, a behavioral economist and strategy expert. We explored the fascinating world of organizational transformation and the challenges companies face in implementing change. Jason shared insights from his experience, including a case study of a 15,000-person transformation that was completed in just 2.5 years. We discussed the importance of informal networks in organizations and how they can be leveraged to accelerate change. Jason explained the concept of organizational network analysis and how it can identify influential individuals who may not hold formal leadership positions. We also delved into the psychology of resistance to change, exploring different types of resistance and how to address them. Jason emphasized the need for clarity and control in driving successful transformations. Throughout our conversation, we touched on the balance between maintaining a clear strategy and being adaptable, the role of trust and credibility in leadership, and the importance of creating meaningful work environments. Jason's insights provided valuable perspectives on navigating the complex world of organizational change and strategy execution.

This podcast features a conversation with Miles Spencer, co-founder of Reflekta.AI, a platform that uses artificial intelligence to recreate digital versions of deceased loved ones. Spencer discusses how the technology allows users to interact with these 'elders', sharing personal experiences of reconnecting with his late father. The discussion explores the potential of AI to preserve family legacies, provide emotional comfort, and address society's need for meaningful connections. Spencer also touches on his entrepreneurial background and the evolution of his perspective on value creation. Key points: 1. Reflekta AI uses photos, audio files, and autobiographical information to create interactive digital representations of deceased individuals. 2. The platform aims to preserve family legacies and values, offering a new way to maintain connections with loved ones who have passed away.

This podcast features my guest, Julianne Miles, co-founder of Career Returners, discussing the challenges and opportunities for professionals returning to work after a career break. Miles, a chartered psychologist and author, shares insights on rebuilding confidence, redefining personal narratives, and navigating the modern workplace. The discussion covers strategies for both returners and employers, emphasizing the value of diverse perspectives in the workforce. Key points: 1. Confidence rebuilding involves reconnecting with one's professional identity and taking action rather than just thinking. 2. Employers should recognize the unique skills and experiences returners bring, and provide support structures to ensure their successful integration into the workplace.

This podcast features Nick Greenhalgh, co-founder of Luca Health, discussing his journey from professional rugby player to entrepreneur. Nick shares insights into Luca Health's innovative approach to concussion management in sports, particularly focusing on schools and grassroots clubs. The conversation covers the challenges of diagnosing concussions, the use of technology in assessment, and the importance of objective data in brain health monitoring. Nick also reflects on the difficulties and rewards of running a mission-driven startup. Key points: 1. LUCA Health uses smartphone technology to provide objective data for concussion diagnosis and management. 2. The company aims to make concussion diagnosis more accurate and accessible, particularly in school and grassroots sports settings.

This podcast is with Lizzie Asher, a remarkable woman with an inspiring life story. Lizzie shared her journey as an immigrant from Peru, her experiences as a competitive swimmer, and her near-death experience during childbirth. She spoke passionately about the importance of perseverance, the power of the mind, and the value of sports in shaping character. Lizzie's commitment to making a positive impact on the world was evident throughout our conversation. She discussed her involvement with various charitable organizations, including City Squash and Safe Venice, emphasizing the importance of finding causes that resonate with one's heart. We also touched on her family's spirits company, Machu Pisco, and her husband Daniel's entrepreneurial ventures. Lizzie's story is one of resilience, determination, and a deep-seated desire to give back to society. Our conversation ended with a powerful call to action, encouraging listeners to find what they care about and take small steps towards making a difference in the world.

This podcast features a thought-provoking conversation with guest, John Vervaeke, exploring the concept of meaning in modern life. Vervaeke, a cognitive scientist and philosopher, discusses the 'meaning crisis' - a widespread sense of disconnection and lack of purpose in society. He delves into topics such as the importance of wisdom, the nature of self, and the role of spirituality in addressing this crisis. The dialogue touches on historical perspectives, contemporary challenges, and potential paths forward for individuals and society. Key points: 1. The need to reconnect with a sense of belonging and mattering in a world that has become increasingly individualistic and disconnected. 2. The importance of facing reality, including our limitations and 'negative' aspects, as part of cultivating genuine meaning and wisdom.

This podcast explores leadership challenges in today's complex business environment. Will Linssen, author of "Triple Win Leadership Coaching," discusses the state of leadership, emphasizing that only 5-8% of leaders are considered effective. He delves into the impact of ego on leadership and the importance of humility. Linssen introduces his coaching methodology, focusing on co-creating change with coworkers and building trust. The conversation covers topics such as authenticity, transparency, and the balance between personal and professional aspects in leadership. Linssen also explains his approach to assessing coachability and the paradox of structure creating freedom in coaching. Key points: 1. Ego is the main obstacle to effective leadership, while humility acts as a catalyst for improvement. 2. Co-creation with coworkers is essential for successful leadership in diverse, international environments.

Rob Mugglestone, author of "Beyond Marginal Gains," discusses high performance strategies in sports and business. He explores the limitations of traditional marginal gains approaches and introduces his OMIT and ATC models for accelerating improvement. Rob shares insights on prioritizing high-impact changes, distinguishing between optimal and maximal performance, and the importance of resilience in leadership. Using examples from sports and the music industry, he illustrates how unconventional thinking can lead to breakthrough results. The conversation delves into the challenges of fostering high performance cultures while avoiding burnout, and Rob reflects on how writing the book evolved his own views on achieving excellence.

For this special episode, I sat down with Mykolai Sierga, the founder of Cultural Forces, a Ukrainian organization using art and culture to address wartime challenges. We explore how Mikolai rapidly pivoted from artist to soldier to cultural ambassador after Russia's invasion. He shares insights on masculinity in crisis, the power of storytelling in war, and using music to bridge divides. We discuss Cultural Forces' innovative approach to maintaining support for Ukraine internationally, including performances at NATO and Cannes. Mykolai offers a unique perspective on the transformative impact of war and the vital role of culture in shaping societal values and political landscapes.