How to Lead with Kate Waterfall Hill

Kate Waterfall Hill
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How to Lead is the go-to podcast for CEOs, founders, business owners, and leaders who want to strike the perfect balance between authority and empathy. I’m Kate Waterfall Hill - leadership coach, author, and creator of Linda, the bad manager, my alter ego who shows us how not to lead. With over 30 years’ experience working with and coaching CEOs and founders (and being one myself), I’ve helped hundreds of leaders elevate their skills and confidence. Each week, I’ll share simple, actionable tips and habits to take the stress out of people management. Every episode starts with Linda’s “what not to do” moment, followed by practical insights on how to handle leadership challenges with finesse. You’ll find How to Lead on all major podcast platforms, plus video episodes on YouTube. My best-selling book, How to Lead, is also a great companion to the show. Subscribe or follow so you don’t miss an episode, and if you enjoy it, please rate, review, and share with fellow leaders. For coaching programmes or my self-paced Digital Academy, visit www.waterfallhill.co.uk. Got a topic suggestion? Email me at hello@waterfallhill.co.uk. Follow me on all major social platforms - just search Kate Waterfall Hill or Linda, the bad manager, and join a community of over 280,000 leaders.

  1. 1 DAY AGO

    Leading with Curiosity

    In this second episode of the mini-series looking at three essential leadership qualities - care, curiosity and clarity, Kate delves into the importance of curiosity in effective leadership. She look at how curiosity can help reduce tension, handle conflict, provide effective feedback, and build stronger relationships without losing momentum. The episode also covers common misconceptions about curiosity, the barriers to adopting it, and practical steps to integrate curiosity into everyday leadership practices. Episode Highlights 00:00 Introduction to Leading with Curiosity 00:36 The Importance of Curiosity in Leadership 01:39 Common Misconceptions About Curiosity 02:50 Practical Steps to Cultivate Curiosity 03:31 Using Curiosity to Manage Conflict 03:56 Building a Curiosity Bank 06:38 Curiosity in Feedback and Relationships 07:57 Curiosity in Meetings and Managing Up 09:34 Encouraging Diversity of Thought 10:02 Avoiding Curiosity Traps 11:04 Reflection and Practice Plan 12:11 Conclusion and Next Steps JOIN MY COMMUNITY: Subscribe HERE⁠⁠ if you’d like new podcast episodes delivered right to your inbox along with weekly tips, tools, and musings. Have you subscribed yet? It would mean so much to me if you would SUBSCRIBE, SHARE OR REVIEW the How to Lead podcast wherever you get your podcasts! Useful links: Free Resources and more information on Kate's coaching programmes Buy the "How to Lead" book Connect with Kate on LinkedIn Follow Kate on TikTok Contact Kate Mentioned in this episode: Giving feedback that actually lands: Even when you’re up against it - https://www.waterfallhill.co.uk/masterclass How to Lead - The leadership book every leader needs by their side - https://www.waterfallhill.co.uk/htl-book

    14 min

  2. 6 NOV

    Leading with Care

    This episode of 'How to Lead,' with Kate Waterfall is the first in a mini-series looking at three essential leadership qualities - care, curiosity and clarity. Today is all about care without being overly lenient, looking at the importance of empathy, active listening, recognising different personalities, and the role of language and tone in leadership. With actionable strategies to implement these concepts, making it clear how genuine care can improve team engagement, performance, and overall workplace morale. Episode Highlights 00:00 Introduction to Leading with Care 00:59 Understanding the Importance of Care in Leadership 03:37 Exploring Empathy in Leadership 05:03 The Power of Active Listening 06:06 Recognizing Diverse Perspectives 08:04 Effective Communication: Language and Tone 09:15 Handling Conflict with Care 10:55 Balancing Care and Challenge 12:44 Practical Steps to Implement Care in Leadership 13:32 Conclusion and Next Steps JOIN MY COMMUNITY: Subscribe HERE⁠⁠ if you’d like new podcast episodes delivered right to your inbox along with weekly tips, tools, and musings. Have you subscribed yet? It would mean so much to me if you would SUBSCRIBE, SHARE OR REVIEW the How to Lead podcast wherever you get your podcasts! Useful links: Free Resources and more information on Kate's coaching programmes Buy the "How to Lead" book Connect with Kate on LinkedIn Follow Kate on TikTok Contact Kate Mentioned in this episode: Giving feedback that actually lands: Even when you’re up against it - https://www.waterfallhill.co.uk/masterclass How to Lead - The leadership book every leader needs by their side - https://www.waterfallhill.co.uk/htl-book

    15 min

  3. 30 OCT

    Profiling tools and DiSC assessments

    In this episode of 'How to Lead,' Kate delves into the significance of behavioural assessment models, particularly DISC profiling, for CEOs, founders, and leaders. Explaining the four DISC styles—Dominance, Influence, Steadiness, and Conscientiousness—and how they contribute to effective team management, the episode aims to equip leaders with the knowledge to enhance their influence and ensure their teams thrive. Episode Highlights: 00:00 Introduction to Behavioral Assessment Models 00:56 Meet Linda, the Bad Manager 02:06 Understanding DISC Profiling 03:51 Breaking Down the DISC Styles 08:43 Applying DISC in Leadership 10:03 Other Assessment Tools 13:20 Using DISC in Teams 14:31 Personal Reflection and Conclusion JOIN MY COMMUNITY: Subscribe HERE⁠⁠ if you’d like new podcast episodes delivered right to your inbox along with weekly tips, tools, and musings. Have you subscribed yet? It would mean so much to me if you would SUBSCRIBE, SHARE OR REVIEW the How to Lead podcast wherever you get your podcasts! Useful links: Free Resources and more information on Kate's coaching programmes Buy the "How to Lead" book Connect with Kate on LinkedIn Follow Kate on TikTok Contact Kate Mentioned in this episode: Giving feedback that actually lands: Even when you’re up against it - https://www.waterfallhill.co.uk/masterclass How to Lead - The leadership book every leader needs by their side - https://www.waterfallhill.co.uk/htl-book

    18 min

  4. 23 OCT

    Things great leaders do that managers often miss

    In this episode of the How to Lead podcast, Kate discusses the crucial differences between great leaders and everyday managers. Drawing from her 30 years of experience in business and leadership development, she shares actionable insights for CEOs, founders, and leaders to help their teams thrive. The episode covers the pitfalls of task-focused management, the importance of balancing tasks with people-centric leadership, and practical shifts to elevate leadership skills. Episode Highlights: 00:00 Introduction: What Great Leaders Do Differently 00:55 Meet Linda: The Bad Manager 02:14 The Importance of Titles and True Leadership 04:11 What Great Leaders Do Differently 05:07 The Impact of Leadership on Performance and Culture 10:40 Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them 11:25 Final Reflections and Encouragement JOIN MY COMMUNITY: Subscribe HERE⁠⁠ if you’d like new podcast episodes delivered right to your inbox along with weekly tips, tools, and musings. Have you subscribed yet? It would mean so much to me if you would SUBSCRIBE, SHARE OR REVIEW the How to Lead podcast wherever you get your podcasts! Useful links: Free Resources and more information on Kate's coaching programmes Buy the "How to Lead" book Connect with Kate on LinkedIn Follow Kate on TikTok Contact Kate Mentioned in this episode: Giving feedback that actually lands: Even when you’re up against it - https://www.waterfallhill.co.uk/masterclass How to Lead - The leadership book every leader needs by their side - https://www.waterfallhill.co.uk/htl-book

    14 min

  5. 16 OCT

    The secret to getting everyone pulling in same direction

    In this episode of 'How to Lead,' Kate discusses the essential role of a clear vision in guiding businesses. She offers practical steps and thought-provoking questions to help leaders create and embed a meaningful vision, and how to utilise this vision in decision-making, hiring, and daily communication to foster a motivated and coherent team. Real-life examples from small businesses illustrate how simplicity and authenticity can make a vision impactful. Episode Highlights: 00:00 Introduction to Leadership and Vision 00:45 The Importance of a Usable Vision 01:31 Common Challenges in Defining Vision 01:59 Steps to Create a Clear Vision 03:29 Key Questions to Define Your Vision 05:51 Real-Life Examples of Effective Visions 11:01 Using Your Vision Effectively 12:20 Conclusion and Final Thoughts JOIN MY COMMUNITY: Subscribe HERE⁠⁠ if you’d like new podcast episodes delivered right to your inbox along with weekly tips, tools, and musings. Have you subscribed yet? It would mean so much to me if you would SUBSCRIBE, SHARE OR REVIEW the How to Lead podcast wherever you get your podcasts! Useful links: Free Resources and more information on Kate's coaching programmes Buy the "How to Lead" book Connect with Kate on LinkedIn Follow Kate on TikTok Contact Kate Mentioned in this episode: Giving feedback that actually lands: Even when you’re up against it - https://www.waterfallhill.co.uk/masterclass How to Lead - The leadership book every leader needs by their side - https://www.waterfallhill.co.uk/htl-book

    14 min

  6. 9 OCT

    High performing teams

    In this episode of How to Lead, Kate delves into what it truly takes to build a high performing team. Drawing on over 30 years of experience in business and leadership development, she outlines six essential conditions for team effectiveness, as well as the nine practical traits of high performing teams, which include clear communication, goal alignment, trust and respect, and collaboration. The episode offers actionable leadership strategies to create the right conditions for team performance, enhancing your ability to lead with clarity, care, and curiosity. Episode Highlights: 00:00 Introduction to High Performing Teams 01:02 Meet Linda, the Bad Manager 02:05 Defining High Performing Teams 03:21 The Six Team Conditions Framework 08:05 Practical Traits of High Performing Teams 12:01 Leadership Actions to Build High Performing Teams 14:04 Conclusion and Final Thoughts JOIN MY COMMUNITY: Subscribe HERE⁠⁠ if you’d like new podcast episodes delivered right to your inbox along with weekly tips, tools, and musings. Have you subscribed yet? It would mean so much to me if you would SUBSCRIBE, SHARE OR REVIEW the How to Lead podcast wherever you get your podcasts! Useful links: Free Resources and more information on Kate's coaching programmes Buy the "How to Lead" book Connect with Kate on LinkedIn Follow Kate on TikTok Contact Kate Mentioned in this episode: Giving feedback that actually lands: Even when you’re up against it - https://www.waterfallhill.co.uk/masterclass How to Lead - The leadership book every leader needs by their side - https://www.waterfallhill.co.uk/htl-book

    16 min

  7. 2 OCT

    Empathy v Authority

    In this episode of 'How to Lead,' Kate explores the critical balance between empathy and authority in leadership. Drawing on over 30 years of experience, she discusses the importance of integrating both qualities for effective leadership. She also addresses common pitfalls leaders face when overemphasising one trait over the other and offers reflective prompts to help leaders find their balance. Episode Highlights: 00:00 Introduction: Empathy vs. Authority in Leadership 00:49 The Challenge of Balancing Empathy and Authority 02:20 Why Balancing Empathy and Authority Matters 03:18 The Two Leadership Lenses: People and Performance 04:13 Practical Empathy in Leadership 05:38 Exercising Authority Effectively 06:43 Common Leadership Pitfalls 07:59 A Framework for Balanced Leadership 10:37 Real-World Examples of Balanced Leadership 12:42 Reflecting on Your Leadership Style 13:36 Conclusion and Final Thoughts JOIN MY COMMUNITY: Subscribe HERE⁠⁠ if you’d like new podcast episodes delivered right to your inbox along with weekly tips, tools, and musings. Have you subscribed yet? It would mean so much to me if you would SUBSCRIBE, SHARE OR REVIEW the How to Lead podcast wherever you get your podcasts! Useful links: Free Resources and more information on Kate's coaching programmes Buy the "How to Lead" book Connect with Kate on LinkedIn Follow Kate on TikTok Contact Kate Mentioned in this episode: Giving feedback that actually lands: Even when you’re up against it - https://www.waterfallhill.co.uk/masterclass How to Lead - The leadership book every leader needs by their side - https://www.waterfallhill.co.uk/htl-book

    15 min

  8. 25 SEPT

    Keeping positive when things are rubbish

    In today's episode of 'How to Lead,' Kate offers guidance on maintaining positivity during challenging times at work. Drawing from her 30 years of leadership experience, she distinguishes between toxic and resilient positivity, emphasising the importance of acknowledging reality while offering hope and solutions. The episode includes real-world case studies , illustrating effective crisis leadership. Episode Highlights: 00:00 Introduction and Overview 00:46 Linda the Bad Manager's Take 01:30 Understanding Resilient Positivity 03:18 The Importance of Positivity in Leadership 04:11 Real-World Case Studies 07:02 Practical Strategies for Staying Positive 09:56 Pitfalls to Avoid 10:23 Practical Tools for Teams 11:00 Final Reflections and Closing JOIN MY COMMUNITY: Subscribe HERE⁠⁠ if you’d like new podcast episodes delivered right to your inbox along with weekly tips, tools, and musings. Have you subscribed yet? It would mean so much to me if you would SUBSCRIBE, SHARE OR REVIEW the How to Lead podcast wherever you get your podcasts! Useful links: Free Resources and more information on Kate's coaching programmes Buy the "How to Lead" book Connect with Kate on LinkedIn Follow Kate on TikTok Contact Kate Mentioned in this episode: Giving feedback that actually lands: Even when you’re up against it - https://www.waterfallhill.co.uk/masterclass How to Lead - The leadership book every leader needs by their side - https://www.waterfallhill.co.uk/htl-book

    13 min
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About

How to Lead is the go-to podcast for CEOs, founders, business owners, and leaders who want to strike the perfect balance between authority and empathy. I’m Kate Waterfall Hill - leadership coach, author, and creator of Linda, the bad manager, my alter ego who shows us how not to lead. With over 30 years’ experience working with and coaching CEOs and founders (and being one myself), I’ve helped hundreds of leaders elevate their skills and confidence. Each week, I’ll share simple, actionable tips and habits to take the stress out of people management. Every episode starts with Linda’s “what not to do” moment, followed by practical insights on how to handle leadership challenges with finesse. You’ll find How to Lead on all major podcast platforms, plus video episodes on YouTube. My best-selling book, How to Lead, is also a great companion to the show. Subscribe or follow so you don’t miss an episode, and if you enjoy it, please rate, review, and share with fellow leaders. For coaching programmes or my self-paced Digital Academy, visit www.waterfallhill.co.uk. Got a topic suggestion? Email me at hello@waterfallhill.co.uk. Follow me on all major social platforms - just search Kate Waterfall Hill or Linda, the bad manager, and join a community of over 280,000 leaders.

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