Leadership, Brand Strategy & Transformation - Minter Dialogue

Evergreen Podcasts | Minter Dialogue
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With the Minter Dialogue podcast, your host Minter Dial is on a mission to help elevate the debate and insert more meaningfulness into our lives. He gives weekly interviews around leadership, brand strategy and transformation, featuring top business leaders, personalities, entrepreneurs and authors from around the world who are making things happen! This show has had multiple awards and citations over the years, including the #2 Brand Strategy podcast worldwide by Feedspot in 2025 (#1 in the UK), as well as #22 among all Leadership podcasts. It was also listed as a Top 50 leadership podcast by LeadersHum for 2022 and Top 50 Marketing Blog/Podcasts by Linkedin. Minter Dial is a filmmaker and author of multiple award-winning books, including The Last Ring Home, Futureproof (FT Press), You Lead (Kogan Page) and Heartificial Empathy, 2nd edition (2023). He also hosts The Joy of Padel podcast. Podcast show notes are on minterdial.com. To rate & review: RateThisPodcast.

  1. 7h ago

    Stop Chasing and Start Creating: Justin Jones-Fosu on Finding Meaning in Work and Life

    In this illuminating conversation, Minter Dial reconnects with Justin Jones-Fosu, noted speaker, author, and workplace meaning advocate, who returns to the show as both a published fable writer and a man redefined by personal growth. Reflecting on life’s dualities and the integration of personal and professional identity, Justin Jones-Fosu shares the intentional steps he’s taken to align with his deepest values, especially when tested by profound family challenges. Together, they dissect the concept of meaningfulness at work and in life, drawing from Justin Jones-Fosu’s national research on what Americans consider genuinely meaningful in their jobs. The discussion spans the surprising findings around remote work, generational shifts in the search for purpose, and the critical roles of community, ownership, and daily intentional habits in crafting a life that matters. The episode doesn’t shy away from vulnerability. Justin Jones-Fosu opens up about his evolving relationship with his father, the power of forgiveness, and forging an authentic path to manhood while raising his own sons. With insights into rituals, the science of habits, and the enduring importance of team and tribe, this conversation offers practical ideas and heartfelt wisdom for anyone seeking significance—whether as a leader, a parent, or simply as a human navigating modern complexity. If you’re curious about creating meaning—one small, intentional step at a time—this episode with Minter Dial and Justin Jones-Fosu delivers inspiration, research-backed guidance, and a fresh outlook on what truly makes work and life worth living.

  2. Sep 26

    Living Your Dash: Linda Ellis Discusses Meaning, Mortality, and Authenticity

    In this moving conversation, Minter Dial welcomes poet Linda Ellis, whose work—most notably the widely-shared poem "The Dash"—has touched millions around the world, often at the most poignant moments of their lives. Linda Ellis reflects on her journey from a corporate environment to becoming a poet whose words are read at funerals, inscribed as tattoos, and woven into the fabric of people's daily lives. The discussion delves into the profound impact of contemplating mortality—not to dwell on death, but to enrich the meaning found within the ‘dash’ between life’s dates. Linda Ellis shares candidly about her own struggles with being closely associated with loss and funerals, and how she intentionally reframed her message to champion the celebration of life as much as its inevitable end. Together, they examine why, as a society, we so often shy away from conversations about death, and how embracing the finite nature of existence can inspire more authentic living. The episode also explores the art of creating poetry that is universally accessible without sacrificing emotional depth. Linda Ellis offers insights into fostering legacy, communicating authentically in both personal and professional settings, and the significance of expressing love and gratitude while there is still time. Whether you seek greater meaning in daily routines, guidance in dealing with loss at work, or simply a nudge to live more intentionally, this conversation offers warmth, wisdom, and practical inspiration. Join Minter Dial and Linda Ellis as they discuss the delicate balance between silliness and seriousness, and invite listeners to consider: how will you spend your own dash?

    Living Your Dash: Linda Ellis Discusses Meaning, Mortality, and Authenticity

  3. Sep 19

    Beyond the Hero’s Pedestal: Dr Michael Gerharz on Authentic Persuasion and Impact

    In this episode, Minter Dial is joined by Dr Michael Gerharz, accomplished author, communicator, and strategist, for a compelling exploration of how the right words can shape organisational impact at the moments that matter most. Drawing on a background in computer science and communication systems, Dr Gerharz shares his journey from machine-to-machine communication to helping leaders articulate strategy in ways that truly resonate. The conversation focused on the critical intersection of strategy, culture, and communication. One concept discussed was the oft-repeated axiom “culture eats strategy for breakfast,” with Dr Gerharz arguing that real progress stems from aligning strategy so closely with culture that it becomes part of a company’s DNA. A key theme that emerged was the difference between being correct and being heard—how even the most well-crafted strategies can falter if not communicated in terms people understand and care about. The discussion explored techniques for making complex ideas accessible, the importance of repetition and clarity, and the art of listening to ensure messages actually land across diverse teams. Several points were raised, including why simplicity is not the enemy of complexity but its essential gateway, and how heartfelt communication rooted in genuine conviction is far more powerful than any staged display of charisma. Whether you’re grappling with getting your strategy adopted across a global organisation, searching for ways to inject more meaning into your leadership communication, or simply keen to step off the hero’s pedestal and champion those you lead, this episode offers practical wisdom and fresh perspectives to help you make your message count. Join Minter Dial and Dr Michael Gerharz for insights on navigating the human complexities of strategic impact in today’s ever-evolving business landscape.

    Beyond the Hero’s Pedestal: Dr Michael Gerharz on Authentic Persuasion and Impact

  4. Sep 12

    Dr Florence Hazrat on Hyphens, Heritage, and How Punctuation Shapes Identity

    In this conversation, the podcast turns its attention to the world of punctuation with Dr Florence Hazrat, an expert in Renaissance literature and the history of written marks. The discussion focused on the overlooked yet defining role that punctuation plays not only in language, but in identity, thought, and culture. One concept discussed was the existential significance of the hyphen—how this small symbol can represent a fusion of cultures, backgrounds, and even lives, as seen in personal stories of mixed heritage and global identity. A key theme that emerged was the evolution of punctuation: from ancient Greek and Roman systems that combined grammar and rhythm, to the creative flourishes of Renaissance writers, and the democratic rise of punctuation as a universal tool across diverse languages. The conversation explored the parallels between music and writing, highlighting how silence, rhythm, and expectation in music are mirrored by pauses, rests, and punctuation in text. Several points were raised, including the power of the full stop and the comma, the experimental use of punctuation throughout history, and the symbolism behind marks such as parentheses and dashes. Listeners will find fresh insights into the ways modern technology—emoticons, emojis, and fonts—both disrupt and revitalise our understanding of written expression. The discussion delves into multilingualism, cross-cultural differences in punctuation, and the unique creative freedoms found within English compared to the stricter conventions of German grammar. Whether you’re fascinated by the history of language, intrigued by the philosophy underpinning everyday marks, or looking for new ways to express nuance in your writing, this episode invites you to rethink the humble yet potent role of punctuation in shaping how we communicate, connect, and make sense of the world.

    Dr Florence Hazrat on Hyphens, Heritage, and How Punctuation Shapes Identity

  5. Sep 5

    Story Alchemy and Authentic Voice: Elizabeth Brett on Embracing Presence and Inner Sovereignty

    In this episode, Minter Dial welcomes Elizabeth Brett, a former NBC news reporter turned expert in storytelling and authenticity. Drawing upon her rich background in media and her personal journey through motherhood and self-discovery, the conversation focuses on what it truly means to communicate with intention and to forge genuine connections—whether on stage, on camera, or in everyday life. The discussion explores the challenges of authenticity in a world driven by performance, as Elizabeth introduces her concept of “Story Alchemy,” a framework that encourages leaders to align their inner narratives with their outward expression. Delving into the nuances of emotional intelligence, trust-building, and the dynamic between performance and presence, Elizabeth sheds light on why sharing stories is fundamental to influence and memorability. A key theme that emerged is the interplay between vulnerability and sovereignty—how individuals can share their stories with integrity, set boundaries, and avoid the pitfalls of over-giving. The pair also discusses the pivotal life experiences that strip away the masks, allowing for personal transformation and deeper understanding of one’s purpose and voice. For leaders navigating the complexities of communication, those interested in building trust on both an individual and large-scale level, or anyone seeking to cultivate authenticity in their storytelling, this episode offers invaluable insights and practical wisdom. Join Minter Dial and Elizabeth Brett as they challenge prevailing notions of performance and authenticity—and offer a fresh look at the power of presence in modern leadership and life.

  6. Aug 29

    Serious Fun and Instincts and the Human Algorithm in Business with Mike Anderson

    In this conversation, the focus is on the journey of Mike Anderson—from his early days on Fleet Street through to entrepreneurship and his role as a coach and connector. Drawing on decades of experience navigating transitions from print to digital, desktop to mobile, and now into the era of AI, the discussion explores the importance of balancing instinct with data in business decision-making, emphasising the enduring value of human skills even as technology accelerates. The exchange delves into leadership, reflecting on the lessons learned from pivotal life events and the power of both storytelling and humour in bringing teams together. Anderson unpacks key themes from his book, Serious Fun in Business: A Human Algorithm, including the vital role of personal authenticity, maintaining a “day one” mentality, and not losing your “soul” when the business rhythm is disrupted. Several points are raised around navigating adversity, leaning into pressure moments, and the concrete steps leaders can take to stay grounded—such as practising gratitude, fostering open conversations, and being honest about challenges. The conversation also explores the impact of sport, family influences, and the importance of environment and context in coaching. Whether you’re a business leader facing uncertainty, someone interested in the intersection of instinct and data, or simply curious about finding more enjoyment and humanity in work, this episode offers plenty of practical wisdom and firm reminders on the power of connection, perspective, and resilience.

  7. Aug 22

    Listener Choice: Most Resonant Padel and Leadership Episodes on the Show This Year

    In this summer interlude, Minter Dial pauses the regular schedule to reflect on meaningful moments and recommend three standout episodes from the Minter Dialogue archive (based on the number of listens this year!). Minter highlights conversations on harnessing AI and data, navigating the entrepreneurial journey, and building authentic leadership. Listeners are invited to revisit insightful dialogues on personal and professional growth, consider what stayed with them, and use these episodes as sparks for deeper conversation and reflection—wherever summer takes them. Key points: Thoughtful conversations on AI, entrepreneurship, and practical leadership fundamentals. Episodes encourage reflection, productive disagreement, and meaningful dialogue beyond the podcast. Spotlight on Past Guests Dr. Kim Nilsson—a dynamic force with an MBA and a PhD in astrophysics, and founder of Pivigo, which connects organizations with data science and AI talent. https://www.minterdial.com/2018/10/big-data-pivigo-kim-nilsson/ Then there’s Céline Lazorthes, a pioneering French entrepreneur who launched Litchi, the popular group payment platform, and its spin-off, Mango Pay. https://www.minterdial.com/2016/10/leetchi-celine-lazorthes/ Finally, Tess Fyalka, an expert coach who equips new and emerging leaders with crucial skills like courage, compassion, and resilience. https://www.minterdial.com/2026/03/tess-fyalka/

  8. Aug 15

    Navigating Agency Culture: Peter Finn’s Insights on Values, Growth, and Difficult Choices

    In this episode, the conversation with Peter Finn focused on the remarkable journey of building purpose-driven organisations and the essential role of values in shaping both business and community. The episode features a deep dive into the career of Peter, the founder and CEO of one of the world’s largest independent PR firms, who recounts the challenges and rewards of departing from a family business, scaling an agency to over 1,300 employees, and remaining steadfastly guided by principles such as respect, genuine kindness, and collaboration. A key theme that emerged was the tension between the conventional “cutthroat” model of business success and the philosophy of “work hard and play nice.” The discussion explored whether empathy and a people-centric approach can truly drive growth, especially when managing creative teams and making difficult decisions. Several points were raised, including the complexities of integrating acquisitions, navigating client relationships that align with organisational values, and the realities of measuring impact beyond financial metrics. The episode also highlighted the transformative power of the arts, with the founding of a multi-venue, community-energising arts foundation in upstate New York. The conversation illuminated how arts initiatives can revive communities, foster social cohesion, and provide a meaningful narrative for regeneration. Listeners interested in leadership, purposeful growth, the role of culture in M&A, or the wider value of art in society will find this exchange full of hard-won lessons and thought-provoking insights. Tune in for a compelling reflection on building businesses—and communities—that leave a lasting mark.

    Navigating Agency Culture: Peter Finn’s Insights on Values, Growth, and Difficult Choices
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About

With the Minter Dialogue podcast, your host Minter Dial is on a mission to help elevate the debate and insert more meaningfulness into our lives. He gives weekly interviews around leadership, brand strategy and transformation, featuring top business leaders, personalities, entrepreneurs and authors from around the world who are making things happen! This show has had multiple awards and citations over the years, including the #2 Brand Strategy podcast worldwide by Feedspot in 2025 (#1 in the UK), as well as #22 among all Leadership podcasts. It was also listed as a Top 50 leadership podcast by LeadersHum for 2022 and Top 50 Marketing Blog/Podcasts by Linkedin. Minter Dial is a filmmaker and author of multiple award-winning books, including The Last Ring Home, Futureproof (FT Press), You Lead (Kogan Page) and Heartificial Empathy, 2nd edition (2023). He also hosts The Joy of Padel podcast. Podcast show notes are on minterdial.com. To rate & review: RateThisPodcast.

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