Simon Hodgkins catches up with Amanda Wallace on this episode of The Global Discussion. As Director of CDH Consultants Ltd, Amanda brings two decades of executive experience, combining a deep understanding of people with the complex realities of business transformation.00:00 - Introduction to the episode and guest Amanda Wallace02:50 - From “office politics” to stakeholder management05:02 - The speed trap in transformation, resistance, and leadership misalignment08:04 - How Amanda aligns leadership, current state to target state15:14 - Stakeholder mapping, choosing champions, understanding impact and resistance20:33 - Supporting senior leaders, the perfection trap, when to step in or step back25:43 - AI, real data, and the future of leadership and org designWatch or Listen to The Global DiscussionSpotify ► https://open.spotify.com/show/3QdMqfz...Web ► https://www.theglobaldiscussion.comYouTube ► / @theglobaldiscussion Others ► LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and Facebook Join the newsletter via the website for updates on new episodes.
Charlotte Otter, a former journalist turned executive coach and founder of Otter Advisory, is in conversation with Host Simon Hodgkins on this episode of The Global Discussion. The topics include leadership, reputation, and what it really means to build trust in a world that never stops changing!
00:33 - Charlotte's journey, journalism to SAP to Otter Advisory, and change leadership MSc
04:13 - Why we need new leaders today, the crisis of leadership
07:35 - Adaptability over command and control, qualities modern leaders need
10:39 - Reputation equity explained, own your story, and create a record of success
14:11 - Reputation 360, unlocking executive narratives and a shy CEO case study
20:43 - The art of storytelling for leaders, details that create connection
26:52 - Final takeaway: build your reputation on LinkedIn.
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Carolina Arroyo, the Founder and Managing Director of EC Peasy Communication, joins Host Simon Hodgkins on this episode of The Global Discussion to explore how companies can scale their revenue without expanding headcount.00:35 - EC Peasy mission and services01:39 - From cold calling to smarter outbound systems06:38 - Content that drives sales, 80 percent research, and the 50-30-20 mix12:49 - AI-powered sequencing, email to LinkedIn to warm calls16:11 - Strategic commenting and LinkedIn profile optimization21:03 - Debunking myths about AI agents and why calling still works25:19 - Reverse pitching framework, lead with symptoms before the pitchWatch or Listen to The Global DiscussionSpotify ► https://open.spotify.com/show/3QdMqfz...Web ► https://www.theglobaldiscussion.comYouTube ► / @theglobaldiscussion Others ► LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and Facebook Join the newsletter via the website for updates on new episodes.
Host Simon Hodgkins speaks with Kim Polley, Co-founder of Frontièr Advisory, a firm that helps organizations navigate some of the world's most complex markets.
Their conversation focused on reputation, trust, and the evolving challenges global businesses face when entering or operating in high-stakes environments.
00:00 - Introduction to the episode and guest Kim Polley
00:36 - What is Frontièr Advisory?
02:04 - Why Trust Matters Now
02:56 - ESG and the Trust Dividend
05:01 - AI and Reputation
08:35 - From License to Operate to License to Belong
15:35 - Crisis, Community, and Reputation
22:41 - Misunderstanding Africa
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Host Simon Hodgkins speaks with Mays Elansari, a seasoned marketing leader known for her sharp strategic mind, storytelling skills, and ability to bring brands to life across industries and regions. With experience at some of the world’s most recognized names, including McCann Erickson, BBDO, Subway, and Pinkberry, Mays has built a career around balancing creativity with commercial impact. She is also widely recognized in the industry as the “Queen of Events”.
Mays shared thoughtful insights about marketing leadership, brand building, and the importance of human connection in an increasingly digital world.
00:00 - Introduction to the episode and guest Mays Elansari
01:44 - Art and science in marketing, long and short balance
06:02 - Subway EMEA transformation, alignment, and the why
08:54 - Queen of Events, networking to insights and impact
13:41 -Judging top awards, creativity with measurable results
18:37 - Global to local, Pinkberry case and cultural nuance
27:22 - The future of engagement, the human element with AI
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Joanne Sweeney, the author of AI Playbook, CEO of the Public Sector Marketing Institute, and Owner of the Digital Training Institute, joins Host Simon Hodgkins on this episode of The Global Discussion.
Joanne has worked at the intersection of journalism, communications, and digital transformation for many years, constantly adapting her skills to stay ahead of change. She has carved out a unique space as a trusted authority in public sector communications. In this episode, Joanne shares her journey from her early days as a journalist to becoming a leading voice on AI, digital strategy, and government communications.
00:00 - Introduction to the episode and guest Joanne Sweeney
00:26 - 25 years in communications, staying ahead through every digital wave
02:48 - The aha moment, niching into public sector and launching a global mission
06:03 - The Apprentice lesson, why scalability and focus changed everything
10:33 - Exclusive, announcing The AI Playbook and who it is for
14:08 - Creating a language for public sector marketing and Harvard takeaways
20:15 - Lead with value, podcasts, and building trust over virality
27:09 - Inside AIj, turning a career’s knowledge into practical AI products
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Host Simon Hodgkins welcomes Alastair McDermott, an AI consultant, speaker, trainer, and the founder of HumanSpark•ai. Alastair is also the author of "Use AI, Stay Human" and the host of "The AI-Powered Business Leader" podcast. His perspective on artificial intelligence blends deep technical expertise with a clear focus on people, empathy, and real-world results.
01:25 - Pivot to AI, rebranding to HumanSpark.ai, why he went all in
03:14 - Human-first AI, empower teams, from productivity gains to transformation and learning
07:38 - Case study, medical lab automation cuts processing from 90 minutes to two
14:02 - Accuracy and evals, error checking, and why the EU AI Act matters
17:22 - AGI outlook, the jagged edge of AI strengths and weaknesses
21:56 - Writing Use AI, Stay Human, developmental editor, and synthetic beta readers
32:48 - Free AI toolkits, adoption roadmap, where to find Alastair, closing remarks
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Jona Hysa, a London-based social media strategist, founder of Time4PA, and the driving force behind the Moving Women Forward community, speaks with Simon Hodgkins on this episode of The Global Discussion. Jona’s story is one of resilience, transformation, and a deep commitment to helping others thrive in both business and life.
00:00 - Introduction to the episode and guest Jona Hysa
01:07 - From Albania to London: Jona’s Journey
02:20 - Starting as a Virtual Assistant
04:32 - Building Confidence and Helping Businesses
08:01 - The Social Media Landscape Today
15:19 - SEO vs AI Optimization
17:49 - Creating the Moving Women Forward Community
29:25 - Key Takeaway: “I Did It” Mindset
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James Louttit, Founder and Lead Trainer at Impactful Project Management, is in discussion with Host Simon Hodgkins on The Global Discussion to discuss a common challenge faced by leaders and team members: how to deliver results without burning out.
00:00 - Introduction to the episode and guest James Louttit
00:40 - James’s hospital epiphany and shift from effort to impact
04:59 - The eight lenses of project work with a focus on prioritization
11:48 - From saying no to asking why, driving real prioritization decisions
13:34 - The SAVE technique, practical tactics to kick start any project
19:51 - Lean Coffee explained, surfacing issues and creating buy in
24:24 - Risk based contingency, replacing blanket 10 to 20 percent buffers
29:43 - Blending agile and waterfall, choosing what fits your team and context
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Host Simon Hodgkins speaks with Iza Dabek, a Rapid Transformational Practitioner and Founder of Healing Habits Coaching. Iza works with high-achieving professionals, creatives, and founders to help them break through the subconscious patterns that keep them stuck, particularly those tied to self-sabotage, low confidence, and burnout.
00:00 – Introduction to the episode and guest Úna Herlihy
00:39 – Úna’s background in advertising and early career journey
02:15 – Transition to freelancing in 2005 and early challenges
06:49 – Impact of COVID-19 and how The Indie List began
13:10 – How The Indie List is different from other freelance platforms
22:16 – Providing business and compliance support for freelancers
25:01 – The changing mindset of senior professionals post-COVID
33:02 – Future focus on skills development and education initiatives
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Úna Herlihy, Founder & CEO and Chief Matchmaker at The Indie List, speaks with Host Simon Hodgkins in this episode of The Global Discussion. Based in Ireland, Úna built Ireland's leading curated freelance network for marketing and creative talent, bridging experienced professionals with purposeful clients through thoughtful matchmaking.
00:00 – Introduction to the episode and guest Úna Herlihy
00:39 – Úna’s background in advertising and early career journey
02:15 – Transition to freelancing in 2005 and early challenges
06:27 – Impact of COVID-19 and how The Indie List began
13:14 – How The Indie List is different from other freelance platforms
25:05 – The changing mindset of senior professionals post-COVID
33:02 – Future focus on skills development and education initiatives
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When it comes to turning complex technologies into compelling stories, few do it with the clarity, warmth, and precision of Andie Cooper, International PR Director at Beachhut PR. On this episode of The Global Discussion, host Simon Hodgkins sat down with Andie to explore the evolving world of public relations, the unique challenges of working with tech companies, and the importance of communicating with purpose.
00:00 – Introduction: Meet Andie Cooper of Beachhut PR
02:45 – Why Local PR Comes First for Startups
05:00 – Telling a Value-Driven Story, Not a Technical One
07:43 – The Importance of Translating Complexity
11:23 – Building Media Relationships That Last
15:17 – Helping Founders Become Confident Spokespeople
25:36 – How PR Has Evolved With Speed and New Channels
32:33 – Using PR to Amplify Women in Tech
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Jim Carlough, Chief Sales Officer at mPulse, is a seasoned leader with over 25 years of experience in healthcare and technology. With a proven track record of empowering leaders and launching his new book, Six Pillars of Effective Leadership, Jim joins Simon Hodgkins to unpack how integrity, empathy, and laughter can define outstanding leadership in today's world.
00:00 – Introduction Jim Carlough
01:03 – From Healthcare & Tech to Mentoring
04:36 – Pillar 1: Integrity & Trust
05:00 – Authoritarian vs Human Leadership
06:29 – Compassion vs Empathy Defined
07:45 – Stability, Focus & the Bezos Example
08:27 – Humor as a Leadership Tool
13:32 – Lifelong Learning & Mentors
16:39 – Remote Leadership & Video Connection
20:00 – Burnout, Well‑Being & Duty of Care
21:59 – Coaching Program & Future Plans
24:40 – Connect with Jim & Book Info
25:44 – Closing Thoughts on Optimism
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If you've been wondering how SEO is evolving in the age of AI, this episode of The Global Discussion is one you'll want to spend time with. Host Simon Hodgkins is joined by Maeva Cifuentes, Founder of Flying Cat Marketing, to discuss the shifting landscape of search, content, and digital strategy.
Maeva brings sharp insight, deep experience, and a clear voice to conversations that cut through the hype and get to what matters for businesses today.
00:40 – How SEO and Search Are Evolving with AI
01:10 – Why Ranking #1 Doesn’t Always Mean Clicks
03:05 – The Hidden Cost of Ignoring Technical SEO
05:00 – Rethinking SEO Metrics in the Age of AI Overviews
06:00 – Chasing LLM Visibility: What Actually Matters
08:15 – Why Domain Expertise Beats High-Volume Content
11:42 – How Brands Can Start Ranking in AI Results
22:02 – Empowering Ambitious Women Toward Leadership
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Niamh Cooper has a way with words. Whether she's helping a global brand craft compelling content or guiding aspiring writers to start their first story, her passion for storytelling runs deep.
00:00 – Introduction: Meet Niamh Cooper
03:40 – Launching “Word Matters”
04:13 – Writing for Humans in an AI World
10:12 – Enter the Stan Challenge
13:00 – Starting a 30-Day Writing Challenge
16:16 – The “Find Your Voice” Retreat
20:04 – What’s Ahead: Word Matters & Beyond
24:11 – Final Thoughts: Reignite Your Voice
Watch or Listen to The Global DiscussionSpotify ► https://open.spotify.com/show/3QdMqfzyvca6EVlEJ80I4nWeb ► https://www.theglobaldiscussion.comYouTube ► / @theglobaldiscussion Others ► LinkedIn, X, Instagram, and Facebook Join the newsletter via the website for updates on new episodes
Jamie Schwartzman, Founder of Flux Branding and a seasoned brand strategist with over three decades of experience in creative direction, psychology, and business transformation, speaks with Host Simon Hodgkins in this episode.
00:00 – Introduction & Welcome
01:07 – What Is Brand Strategy?
03:14 – Brand as a Long-Term Asset
05:25 – How AI Is Changing Branding
09:20 – The IDEA Method Explained
15:22 – The Concept Behind “Brilliant”
20:38 – What's Ahead: AI, Ethics & Embracing Change
25:55 – Final Thoughts: Find Your Radiance
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There's something quietly electric about hearing someone talk when they've truly followed a hunch into uncharted territory and made something real out of it. That was the vibe when Pia Mailhot-Leichter, founder of Kollektiv Studio and author of Welcome to the Creative Club, joined The Global Discussion podcast with Host Simon Hodgkins.
00:00 - Welcome and Introduction
00:51 - Agency Life as a Creative SWAT Team
02:45 - The "Extinction Moment" That Changed Everything
03:47 - A Winding Path from NYC to Copenhagen
08:12 - Creativity Meets Coaching: A New Kind of Work
16:21 - Writing Welcome to the Creative Club
22:38 - What's Next: Audio Projects and Creative Flow
26:34 - A Parting Challenge for the Creatives
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Host Simon Hodgkins catches up with David Carson, a marketing innovator and creative strategist who has turned the idea of "dumb thinking" into a superpower. With a rich background in advertising, entertainment, and brand innovation, David shares his unconventional philosophy that might inspire your next big idea.
00:00 - Introduction & Welcome
01:45 - Dumb Ideas as the Secret Sauce
02:19 - What is Demify?
05:25 - Dumb Ideas that Changed the World
10:05 - The Trap of Being Too Smart
15:09 - AI & Generating Dumb Ideas
20:38 - Working with Big Brands
26:07 - Final Thoughts: Let Your Dumb Ideas Fly
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Host Simon Hodgkins welcomed a genuinely inspiring guest: Kim Mackenzie-Doyle, Instigator and CEO of The Big Idea. With a powerful personal story and a passion for reshaping education through creativity and problem-solving, Kim is not just talking about change—she’s building it from the ground up.
00:00 – Welcome & Guest Introduction
00:26 – From Trauma to Firestarter
02:10 – Discovering Design & Defying Expectations
03:40 – The Birth of The Big Idea
06:30 – Education Reform, ADHD, & Mass Collaboration
09:59 – Behind the Scenes: How The Big Idea Works
12:33 – Real Stories, Real Impact
15:05 – What’s Next for The Big Idea & Kim
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