"Embracing your multifaceted nature isn't a distraction; it's your competitive advantage."

In this episode of Everyday Leadership, I sit down with Dr. Anastacia Awad, Executive Director and Global Head of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Novartis, a powerhouse transforming the pharma industry from within.

Anastacia's journey is a testament to the transformative power of adversity and the profound impact of staying true to oneself. Her story challenges us to reexamine our paths, find strength in our uniqueness, and harness our experiencesboth triumphs and tribulationsas catalysts for change.

Whether you're at a crossroads in your career, facing seemingly insurmountable obstacles, or seeking to ignite meaningful transformation in your sphere of influence, this episode will not just inspire you - it will arm you with the mindset and strategies to turn your challenges into launchpads for extraordinary growth and impact.

Anastacia shares powerful insights on:

Embracing curiosity as a driving force for innovation

Recognising and acting on your body's warning signals

Staying true to oneself while adapting to new environments

The emotional journey of pivoting from a lifelong career path

How challenging environments are crucial for personal growth

Valuable leadership lessons learned from her research mentor

Leveraging diverse backgrounds for innovative problem-solving

The importance of knowing the rules of the game you're playing

Integrating DEI principles into scientific research and clinical trials

Connect with Anastacia

| LinkedIn |

Connect with Sope

Website | Youtube | Instagram | LinkedIn

Did you find this helpful? If you like this episode, please leave a review or share it with someone who could benefit from listening.

Were always keen to get feedback so if you have any thoughts, send us an email at hello@mindsetshift.co.uk

Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/everyday-leadership/id1467901267

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/0TuBkXzawOIl05yxbEPTIj

"I realised that in losing myself, I had the opportunity to redefine who I truly wanted to be."

Sabrina Ben Salmi, a multi-award-winning business person development consultant, public speaker, UN delegate, author, publisher, and mother of five, shares her journey of self-discovery and empowerment. She emphasises the importance of embracing all of our talents and not hiding ourselves from the world.

Sabrina discusses her childhood dreams of serving others and bridging the gap between the wealthy and less affluent. She also opens up about her experience with dyslexia and how it has shaped her perspective on intelligence and labels. Sabrina talks about the turning point in her life when she asked herself, 'Who am I to myself?' and embarked on a journey of self-discovery and purpose.

Key takeaways:

• Sabrina overcame numerous challenges in her life, using these experiences to fuel her personal growth and mission to help others.

• Authenticity is crucial, with Sabrina encouraging others to embrace their true selves and multifaceted nature.

• As a single mother, Sabrina created an environment where her children could explore their interests and develop unique talents and raised the Fantastic 5 TEDx Speaker, Founder, UN Women UK Activist & Distinguished Korean Wave Representative who are all Authors, Publishers and International Keynote Speakers.

• Sabrina balanced personal growth and parenting by integrating her children into her development journey, creating learning opportunities.

• Asking questions and maintaining childlike curiosity are essential for fostering growth and understanding. Leadership, according to Sabrina, is about activating others and serving authentically to help them realise their potential.

• Developing a family blueprint and integrating children into a long-term vision beyond material possessions is crucial for creating a lasting family legacy.

• Sabrina's mission is to help families thrive, recognizing the power of strong family units in preventing societal issues and promoting individual growth.

Connect with Sabrina Ben Salmi

Website| LinkedIn |

Connect with Sope

Website | Youtube | Instagram | LinkedIn

Did you find this helpful? If you like this episode, please leave a review or share it with someone who could benefit from listening.

Were always keen to get feedback so if you have any thoughts, send us an email at hello@mindsetshift.co.uk

Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/everyday-leadership/id1467901267

"I embrace the strength that others might label as 'masculine.' Why would I be embarrassed about traits associated with power and decisiveness?"

In this conversation, Sope speaks with Aiko Bethea, founder of Rare Culture and a consultant, about her journey as an innovative leader and experiences navigating different identities. Aiko shares her childhood experiences growing up in South Carolina as a black and Japanese individual and how she balanced both identities. She also discusses her decision to pursue a career in law and later transition into the field of inclusion and diversity.

Aiko emphasises the importance of understanding one's values and fighting for what aligns with those values. She encourages listeners to take risks and not be swayed by the judgments and expectations of others. In this conversation, Aiko Bethea and Sope discuss the importance of accountability in leadership. They emphasise the need for leaders to hold themselves and others accountable with generosity, curiosity, and a focus on growth.

They also explore the challenges of unlearning old beliefs and behaviours, embracing vulnerability, and creating workplace accountability cultures. Aiko shares her insights on leadership and the impact of accountability on personal and professional growth.

Key takeaways:

• How childhood experiences shaped Aiko Bethea's approach to navigating power dynamics and standing up for herself.

• Embracing unique qualities as strengths rather than deficits in professional settings.

• Using your Values as a compass for navigating difficult decisions and maintaining authenticity

• Recognise the power dynamics in relationships and be mindful of how they can influence decisions.

• Power dynamics and whiteness within philanthropic organisations.

• Overcoming the influence of well-meaning loved ones to pursue unconventional career paths.

• Reframing failure: How early career setbacks and changes became unexpected blessings and learning opportunities.

• Leveraging critical inquiry to drive personal development and foster inclusive environments.

• Defying stereotypes, embracing strength: Navigating the complex terrain of being a powerful Black woman in corporate America and being labelled as having "too much testosterone" or "masculine energy."

Connect with Aiko Bethea

Website| LinkedIn |

Connect with Sope

Website | Youtube | Instagram | LinkedIn

Did you find this helpful? If you like this episode, please leave a review or share it with someone who could benefit from listening.

Were always keen to get feedback so if you have any thoughts, send us an email at hello@mindsetshift.co.uk

Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/everyday-leadership/id1467901267

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/0TuBkXzawOIl05yxbEPTIj

"I went from being a statistic to creating a solution for millions."

In this riveting episode of Everyday Leadership, we dive deep into the world of workplace revolution with Molly Johnson-Jones, the visionary CEO and co-founder of Flexa. From her shocking layoff experience to the serendipitous pub conversation that birthed a game-changing idea. With a platform now boasting an impressive 2.5 million users, Flexa has transformed the job search landscape, offering unprecedented transparency into company cultures and benefits.

But Molly's story is more than just a tale of startup success. It's a masterclass in navigating the complexities of entrepreneurship, from battling gender bias in fundraising to building a high-performance team culture that doesn't sacrifice well-being. As we explore Flexa's evolution through the turbulent times of the COVID-19 pandemic and beyond, Molly offers invaluable insights into the future of work and the critical importance of continuous innovation. Prepare to be inspired, challenged, and equipped with fresh perspectives on leadership in the modern workplace.

Key takeaways:

• From shock to opportunity: Discovering layoffs via Bloomberg on the morning commute and how early-career redundancy became an unexpected blessing.

• From discrimination to determination: How Molly's battle with an autoimmune disease led to workplace discrimination and unjust dismissal, fueling her passion for creating more inclusive and flexible work environments.

• Serendipity in entrepreneurship: How a casual pub conversation sparked the creation of Flexa, revolutionising workplace flexibility.

• Transparency revolution: Flexa's mission to transform job searching by providing unprecedented insight into company cultures and benefits.

• Breaking barriers: Navigating fundraising challenges as a female founder in the male-dominated tech startup world.

• Culture by design: Crafting a high-performance team environment that balances productivity with well-being and generous benefits.

• Riding the wave: How Flexa capitalized on the COVID-19 pandemic to accelerate growth and shape the future of remote work.

• Evolve or dissolve: How Flexa's willingness to pivot from solely focusing on flexibility to encompassing broader workplace factors demonstrates the critical importance of adapting to market demands and not resting on initial success.

Connect with Molly Johnson-Jones

Website| LinkedIn | Contact

Connect with Sope

Website | Youtube | Instagram | LinkedIn

Did you find this helpful? If you like this episode, please leave a review or share it with someone who could benefit from listening.

Were always keen to get feedback so if you have any thoughts, send us an email at hello@mindsetshift.co.uk

Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/everyday-leadership/id1467901267

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/0TuBkXzawOIl05yxbEPTIj

"Being the smartest person in the room is fun for a little bit, but you're not gonna grow from that."

Joy seems an unlikely companion in a world where tragedy and life-altering conditions often cast long shadows. Yet, today's guest challenges everything we thought we knew about happiness in the face of adversity. Meet Rebecca Scott, a woman who received a multiple sclerosis diagnosis and, instead of succumbing to despair, chose to dance with joy. Her story isn't about ignoring pain or forcing a smile; it's a raw, honest exploration of finding light in the darkest corners of life.

Prepare to have your preconceptions shattered as Rebecca reveals her revolutionary approach to "microdosing joy." She'll show you how the smallest moments of delight can become a lifeline in a storm and why choosing happiness isn't just brave - it's transformative. This isn't just a podcast; it's an invitation to reconsider your relationship with joy and ask yourself: in your darkest hour, do you have the courage to choose happiness?

Buckle up for a provocative, heart-stirring ride that might change how you view adversity forever.

Key takeaways:

• Microdosing joy: Rebecca introduces her concept of finding happiness in small, everyday moments.

• Living with MS: Rebecca shares her journey of adapting to life with multiple sclerosis and finding positivity despite challenges.

• Career evolution: The podcast explores Rebecca's transition from theater to leadership coaching.

• Redefining leadership: Rebecca explains her view of leadership as making thoughtful choices with others in mind. Embracing learning: The conversation touches on the importance of admitting when you don't know something and continually seeking knowledge.

• Humour and resilience: Rebecca discusses using laughter and lightheartedness as coping mechanisms for life's difficulties.

• Social media positivity: The podcast covers how Rebecca uses social media as a source of inspiration and awe.

• Personal growth: Rebecca shares her transformation from a self-described "Eeyore" to a more optimistic outlook on life.

Connect with Rebecca

Blog| LinkedIn

Connect with Sope

Website | Youtube | Instagram | LinkedIn

Did you find this helpful? If you like this episode, please leave a review or share it with someone who could benefit from listening.

Were always keen to get feedback so if you have any thoughts, send us an email at hello@mindsetshift.co.uk

Apple -

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/0TuBkXzawOIl05yxbEPTIj

"If people say that they're walking into what God has called them to do and they've not had to make any sacrifices, I would question that."

One of the most requested guests and my favourite guest is back as she celebrates her milestone birthday. Of course, I am talking about Shirene Agbelusi, my wonderful wife.

In this episode, we flip the script to learn insights from the past 40 years. Shirene has faced unique challenges and opportunities as a black woman in church leadership. In this candid conversation, she opens up about the sacrifices of obedience, the power of authenticity, and the importance of building a lasting legacy.

Whether you're a community leader, a parent navigating the challenges of raising children, or someone seeking to make a meaningful impact, Shirene's insights offer valuable lessons for everyone.

Key takeaways:

• The true meaning of walking in obedience and the sacrifices it often requires

• Building a lasting legacy through impacting others' lives

• Navigating the unique challenges and responsibilities of being a black woman in church leadership

• The importance of empathy and authenticity in both personal and professional relationships

• Why consistency is crucial when being a role model, especially for children

• How failures can become stepping stones to unexpected opportunities and valuable life lessons

• Balancing the demands of pastoral life with self-care and community support

• The power of surrounding yourself with a strong, like-minded support network for personal growth and success

Connect with Sope

Website | Youtube | Instagram | LinkedIn

Did you find this helpful? If you like this episode, please leave a review or share it with someone who could benefit from listening.

Were always keen to get feedback so if you have any thoughts, send us an email at hello@mindsetshift.co.uk

Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/everyday-leadership/id1467901267

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/0TuBkXzawOIl05yxbEPTIj

"I've missed numerous school plays, sports matches... You miss stuff, you just miss stuff."

In this inspiring episode of Everyday Leadership, host Sope Agbelusi sits down with Sarah Brodie, a trailblazing commercial airline captain who's changing the face of aviation.

Sarah shares her incredible journey from childhood dreams to becoming one of the few female captains in a male-dominated industry. She discusses the challenges of balancing a high-flying career with family life and her passion for sustainability in aviation.

The episode also explores Sarah's transition from the cockpit to a management role, highlighting the complex relationship between operational and administrative aspects of the airline industry.

Listeners will gain insights into the unique challenges faced by female pilots, including cultural barriers in international aviation. Sarah offers valuable perspectives on leadership, resilience, and the importance of advocacy in creating a more inclusive industry.

Key takeaways:

• Sarah's early aviation experiences and their impact on her career choice

• Overcoming gender barriers in a male-dominated industry

• Balancing family life with a demanding career as a pilot

• The push for sustainability and net-zero emissions in aviation

• Transitioning from captain to a management role

• Cultural challenges faced by female pilots in international settings

• Advocating for better conditions for women in aviation

• The importance of following one's passion and embracing new opportunities

Connect with Sope

Website | Youtube | Instagram | LinkedIn

Did you find this helpful? If you like this episode, please leave a review or share it with someone who could benefit from listening.

Were always keen to get feedback so if you have any thoughts, send us an email at hello@mindsetshift.co.uk

Apple - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/everyday-leadership/id1467901267

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/0TuBkXzawOIl05yxbEPTIj

"Sometimes the best additions to your life isn't anymore. It's subtracting."

In this transformative episode of Everyday Leadership, host Sope Agbelusi delves into the powerful concept of strategic subtraction and how it can propel you from good to great.

Sope shares his experience of transitioning from a successful consultancy to fully embracing his purpose and creating Mindset Shift. He discusses the challenges and fears associated with letting go of the familiar and stepping into the unknown.

The episode also explores the concept of empty spaces, using Twitter's origin as a compelling example of how strategic subtraction can lead to groundbreaking innovation.

Listeners will learn practical strategies for applying the G.R.E.A.T framework to their lives, including relationships, careers, habits, and friendships. Sope emphasises the importance of courage in this process and offers tips on cultivating it.

Key takeaways:

• Introduction to the GREAT framework: Growth, Relevance, Excess, Alignment, Thriving

• The Hot Air Balloon analogy: Rising higher by shedding weight

• Sope's personal journey of applying strategic subtraction in his career

• The power of creating empty spaces for innovation and growth

• Twitter's origin story as an example of successful strategic subtraction

• The role of courage in embracing the "less is more" philosophy

• Practical steps to implement strategic subtraction in your life

Whether you're looking to make a career change, improve your personal relationships, or declutter your life, this episode provides valuable insights on how letting go can be the key to unlocking your full potential.

Connect with Sope

Website | Youtube | Instagram | LinkedIn

Did you find this helpful? If you like this episode, please leave a review or share it with someone who could benefit from listening.

Were always keen to get feedback so if you have any thoughts, send us an email at hello@mindsetshift.co.uk

Apple -

Spotify - https://open.spotify.com/show/0TuBkXzawOIl05yxbEPTIj