Leadership, Learning and Commercial Mindset – A Conversation with Steve Beard
🌟 Episode Summary
In this lively and thoughtful episode, Jo Pogson talks with Steve Beard, an experienced leadership consultant and coach, about how leaders can balance authenticity, curiosity, and commercial thinking in today’s complex workplaces. Together they explore what it means to lead with self-awareness, to simplify the way we describe what we do, and to help technically-minded professionals shift from task focus to people focus. Steve draws on years of experience using tools like Insights Discovery and Motivational Maps to build self-understanding and improve communication across teams. This conversation is full of warmth, humour, and practical insights for anyone developing their leadership style or helping others to do the same.
💬 In This Episode
- Translating expertise into plain English: How to explain complex roles in 60 seconds.
- Authenticity in leadership: Staying true to your natural style while adapting to context.
- From task to people: Helping detail-focused professionals develop relational confidence.
- Commercial mindset: What it really means in consultancy and how to model it with integrity.
- Using personality tools wisely: Why preferences aren’t the same as competence.
- The power of self-awareness: Real-world examples of Insights Discovery transforming team communication.
- Coaching for resilience: Supporting leaders who balance multiple pressures and roles.
- Continuous growth: Professional development, networking, and the value of reflection.
🧭 Key Quote
“Be clear about who you are and what you bring. Leadership isn’t about fitting a mould; it’s about understanding your nature and leading from it.”
🧠 Takeaway Challenge
Reflect on how you describe what you do.
Can you summarise your value and impact in under 60 seconds—clearly, confidently, and in language your audience understands?
Try it, refine it, and share it with a colleague for feedback.
🔗 Connect
- Guest: Linked In: Steve Beard
- Host: Jo Pogson – Thriving Today Academy
📩 Contact Jo at [email protected]
To buy the book Surrounded by Idiots all about Discovery Insights click here
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