Culture Corner by Exalto Consulting

Adrian Prodger
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Exalto Consulting brings you Culture Corner with Adrian Prodger. We have conversations with senior tech leaders about fostering great culture in their organisations and teams.

  1. Aug 25

    Moving AI From Hype to Practical Impact

    Moving AI From Hype to Practical Impact In this episode Adrian chats with Dileep Marway - VP of Engineering at Pebblepad. There’s no shortage of conversation about AI. But for technology leaders, the more important question is becoming: where is AI actually making a difference? In the latest episode of Culture Corner, Adrian sits down with Dileep to explore how engineering teams can move beyond the hype and take a more practical, considered approach to AI adoption. One of the points Dileep makes early in the conversation sets the tone for the episode: “Ask yourself what problem you’re solving with AI.” It sounds obvious, but it is an important distinction. Rather than introducing AI simply because the technology is available, Dileep talks about starting with the problem, considering where AI can genuinely add value and being clear about what success should look like. The conversation explores where AI is having a practical impact across engineering, including development, testing and quality assurance, as well as the security considerations and guardrails organisations need to think about as adoption increases. Adrian and Dileep also discuss the question every organisation eventually has to answer: is it actually working? Dileep shares his thoughts on measuring ROI through meaningful data points and metrics, rather than relying on assumptions about productivity, and explains why human judgement remains such an important part of the equation. As he puts it: “AI is best when it complements human judgment.” The episode also explores some of the common mistakes organisations are making with AI, its potential to support creativity and innovation, and what technology leaders need to consider as they prepare their teams for an increasingly AI-driven future. For anyone leading engineering or technology teams and thinking about how to turn AI experimentation into genuine business value, Dileep shares some valuable and practical insights throughout the conversation. Topics covered: Practical AI adoption in engineering teamsA reflective approach to AI implementationAI’s impact on testing and quality assuranceSecurity considerations and guardrails for AIMeasuring ROI and success in AI projectsAI’s role in boosting productivity and innovationChallenges and misconceptions around AI Dileep's LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dileepmarway/ Adrian's LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/adrianprodger exalto-consulting.com

    Moving AI From Hype to Practical Impact

  2. Jul 24

    Why vulnerability is a leadership strength, with Darren Smith

    In this episode Adrian chats to Darren Smith Darren is an experienced technology leader who has spent his career helping organisations build high-performing teams, lead large-scale transformation, and create cultures built on trust. Drawing on leadership experience across multiple organisations, he shares practical lessons on vulnerability, communication, organisational change, and the growing impact of AI on today's workplace. What separates good leaders from great leaders? Darren believes the answer starts with trust. In this episode, Adrian and Darren explore why vulnerability is one of the most underrated leadership strengths, how trust becomes the foundation of high-performing teams, and the practical behaviours leaders can adopt to build stronger cultures, navigate change successfully, and lead with authenticity. In this episode: Darren's career journey and the experiences that shaped his leadership approach Why vulnerability is a leadership strength rather than a weakness How leaders build trust through credibility, reliability, authenticity and transparency Creating psychological safety by leading through openness and honest conversations The importance of having a clear North Star to align teams and drive performance Adapting communication styles to different people, cultures and situations How reverse mentoring helps leaders gain valuable insight from every level of an organisation Recognising healthy and unhealthy organisational politics Practical advice for making an impact during your first 90 days in a new leadership role How AI is changing leadership, organisations and the future of work Building a culture where trust, collaboration and continuous improvement thrive Darren is participating in this podcast in a personal capacity. The views, opinions and experiences he shares are his own and do not necessarily represent those of any employer, client, company or organisation with which he is associated. Darren's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darren-smith-60919031/ Adrian's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrianprodger/ www.exalto-consulting.com

    Why vulnerability is a leadership strength, with Darren Smith

  3. Jun 15

    Leadership, Culture, and Change in Digital Transformation with Jim Tidball

    In this episode Adrian chats to Jim Tidball - Head of Digital at Ardent Jim Tidball is a digital transformation leader with extensive experience in guiding organisations through change. He has held key positions in various sectors, including government and healthcare, where he has played a pivotal role in introducing technology-driven solutions. His expertise lies not just in technology, but also in fostering a culture that supports growth and collaboration. Unlock the secrets to building high-performing teams and fostering a resilient, agile organisational culture. Join us as Jim Tidball shares his extensive experience in digital leadership, the importance of psychological safety, and practical strategies for navigating change and transformation projects. In this episode: Jim's journey from programmer to digital leader focused on transformationThe significance of culture and continuous improvement in organisationsHow to foster psychological safety and trust within teamsPractical steps for building high-performing teams and embedding core behavioursThe vital role of communication in change management and stakeholder engagementInsights into leadership styles and their impact, including being nice v kindStrategies to overcome resistance to change effectivelyThe importance of celebrating wins, recognising contributions, and reinforcing behavioursThe phased approach to stabilising and scaling transformation initiativesJim's experiences with impactful mentors and their influence on leadership developmentHow to demonstrate the value of IT and digital teams regularly to drive buy-in Jim's LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/jim-tidball Adrian's linkedIn: linkedin.com/in/adrianprodger www.exalto-consulting.com https://www.youtube.com/@ExaltoConsulting

    Leadership, Culture, and Change in Digital Transformation with Jim Tidball

  4. Mar 23

    Fiona Widd - Listening in leadership

    Fiona Widd - Listening in leadership In this conversation, Fiona shares her journey into the tech industry, emphasizing the importance of alternative routes into tech and the value of community support. She discusses the challenges of imposter syndrome and the necessity of having a support network for leaders. Fiona reflects on her transition from team member to leader, highlighting the significance of trust and communication within teams. The discussion also touches on the impact of AI in the legal sector and the need for critical thinking skills in the age of technology. The conversation includes: Why listening is so important as a leaderFiona and her journey in techThe importance of alternative routes into techThe value of community in techOvercoming Imposter SyndromeThe role of support networks for leadersTransitioning from team member to leaderBuilding trust and communication in teamsThe impact of AI on the Legal sectorFostering critical thinking in the age of AI

    Fiona Widd - Listening in leadership

  5. Feb 24

    Lauren Corderoy - The power of thinking time

    In this episode Adrian speaks to Lauren Corderoy, Senior Manager in Software Engineering at Dunelm. Lauren shares her honest insights on leadership, team culture, and career progression, highlighting the importance of creating environments where people feel supported, trusted, and recognised at every level. She speaks passionately about the role leaders play in shaping culture, and why communication and trust are the foundations of high-performing teams.We also explore the importance of taking ownership of your own career, building a strong personal brand, and navigating the challenges that come with leadership, including managing difficult stakeholders and overcoming imposter syndrome. Lauren offers particularly valuable perspective on the experiences of women in tech, and how resilience, self-belief, and visibility can help drive meaningful progression. ⭐Overcoming imposter syndrome ⭐Navigating leadership as a young professional ⭐The importance of personal branding ⭐Building trust with stakeholders ⭐Assuming ignorance, not malice ⭐Managing up effectively ⭐Adding value in conversations ⭐The 'Manual to Me' approach ⭐Transitioning from team member to leader ⭐Navigating career progression Lauren's LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/laurencorderoy Adrian's LinkedIn - linkedin.com/in/adrianprodger www.exalto-consulting.com

    Lauren Corderoy - The power of thinking time

  6. 11/24/2025

    Paul Agapow - Evolving Leadership Styles

    Paul Agapow - Evolving Leadership Styles Paul Agapow has a wealth of experience across the use of Data and AI in the Biotech and Pharma industries. In this podcast he shares his insights on leadership, culture, and the dynamics of working in various organisational settings. He emphasizes the importance of trust, collaboration, and adaptability in leadership roles, particularly in the context of global teams and startups. Paul discusses the challenges of managing diverse teams, the significance of hiring the right people, and the evolving role of AI in leadership Some of the topics cover: Evolving Leadership Styles Challenges in Academia vs. IndustryNavigating Large OrganizationsBuilding Internal Networks for SuccessThe Challenges of Scaling Small CompaniesLeadership Mindset in Growing OrganizationsCross-Functional Team DynamicsBridging the Gap Between Business and TechnologyHiring for Growth: Avoiding Common PitfallsDeveloping Future LeadersThe Impact of AI on Leadership Paul's LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paul-agapow/ Adrian's LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrianprodger/ www.exalto-consulting.com

    Paul Agapow - Evolving Leadership Styles

  7. 10/29/2025

    Paul Hornby - transforming healthcare with technology

    Paul Hornby - transforming healthcare with technology Adrian chats with Paul Hornby - Chief Digital & Technology Officer at Bestway Healthcare. In the episode Adrian and Paul discuss: Digital transformation across Healthcare in a B2B environmentCulture eats strategy for breakfastHiring for diversityDoes a degree matter when hiring people?How to foster culture in hybrid and in office workplacesTransparency in leadership Paul's LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulhornby Adrians LinkedIn profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/adrianprodger Exalto Consulting: www.exalto-consulting.com

    Paul Hornby - transforming healthcare with technology

  8. 09/29/2025

    The importance of self care in leadership with Stuart Day

    The importance of self care in leadership with Stuart Day Adrian chats with Stuart Day - Managing Principal Consultant at Ten10 The conversation covers: The importance of self care in leadershipStyles of leadershipDefining great cultureEarning trust in new teamsUsing coaching skills in team leadershipRecruitment and building teamsStuart's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stuart-day/ Quality talks qualitytalks.co.uk Adrian's LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/adrianprodger

    The importance of self care in leadership with Stuart Day
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Exalto Consulting brings you Culture Corner with Adrian Prodger. We have conversations with senior tech leaders about fostering great culture in their organisations and teams.

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