Leadership Live Daphna Horowitz

Transitioning from being an expert to being a leader can be a challenging process for actuaries. Actuaries are known for their technical expertise and analytical skills, which they have honed through years of studying and passing exams. However, when they are promoted to leadership positions, they often struggle to step back from the technical work and trust others to handle it.
In this episode, we dive into a conversation with Julia Lessing, a fellow of the Institute of Actuaries, Australia, and principal actuarial director of Guardian Actuarial, about building management and leadership skills that go beyond simply reading books or studying theory. Some of the insights shared are the need for actuaries to let go of control and trust their team members, as well as the importance of active listening and empathy in building strong relationships, the value of learning from mistakes, and the need for patience and flexibility in career progression. We show that leadership can be broken down into a set of micro-skills that can be learned, even when these skills don’t come about naturally.
 
About the guest:
Julia Lessing is a fellow of the Institute of Actuaries, Australia, with 20 years of experience as a consulting actuary. She is also a certified organizational coach and an experienced counselor. Julia established Guardian Actuarial in 2015, where she is the principal actuarial director. She is passionate about fostering forward-thinking leaders in the actuarial industry and runs the Guardian Actuarial Leadership program to help actuaries build their management toolkits and leadership skills. Julia is a mother of four adult children and is actively involved in her community as a qualified counselor for Lifeline and an authorized foster carer.
 
Resources:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julia-lessing/  
Website: https://www.guardianactuarial.com.au/
Guardian Actuarial Leadership Program: https://www.guardianactuarial.com.au/ga-leadership-program
Podcast: https://www.guardianactuarial.com.au/podcast
Recommendations: 
Book “Courage to Lead” by Daphna Horowitz on Amazon
Link: https://www.amazon.com/Courage-Lead-Leadership-Lessons-Kilimanjaro/dp/1920292284
Book “The Improbable Entrepreneur: A story about the other 99.9% of startups” by Ilan Leas
Link: https://www.amazon.com.au/Improbable-Entrepreneur-story-about-startups-ebook/dp/B09WCVWJTK 
Watch full episodes of “Leadership Live” podcast on Youtube
Link: https://www.youtube.com/user/daphna1231 
 
Timestamps:
3:40 The gap between technical skills and management skills
5:09 Importance of feedback in leadership
11:27 Challenges actuaries face when transitioning into leadership
13:00 We’re not taught how to manage people at “actuary school”
14:05 Mindset shift: stepping back and teaching junior team members
15:17 Building confidence and trusting people to learn from mistakes
19:45 Learning skills from general life experiences
24:48 Integration of leadership skills with actuarial expertise
26:14 Communication micro-skills
32:18 Careers are not linear
38:10 The importance of networking and building relationships
39:21 Two books: motivation and sparking resources for future development
42:03 Can AI take on the role of leadership?
45:10 Connect with Julia Lessing
 
Key Takeaways: Actuaries often struggle with transitioning from expert to leader, particularly in letting go of control and trusting their team members.
Developing leadership skills requires active listening, empathy, and the ability to understand and connect with team members on an individual level.
Actuaries should embrace the non-linear nature of their careers and be open to sideways steps or additional experiences that can broaden their skill set.
Building strong relationships and networking with colleagues and industry professionals is crucial for career growth and advancement.
Actuaries should apply the time value of money concept to

Are you craving deeper, more authentic connections in your life? In this compelling episode, we explore the profound impact of genuine relationships on personal and professional growth. Join us as we unravel the secrets to cultivating authenticity, fostering trust, and embracing vulnerability. Through personal anecdotes and thought-provoking insights, this episode inspires action, inviting you to embark on a journey towards deeper understanding, empathy, and impactful leadership.If you're ready to embark on a journey towards extraordinary leadership from within, this episode is a must-listen. Tune in now for a deep dive into the transformative power of authentic connections. 
WIN A BOOK- Survey link: https://forms.gle/Yfwvhf1nSGqDWiLp6 
 
Key Takeaways: Authentic connections are built on being true to oneself and being sincere in interactions with others.
Building authentic connections can be challenging due to societal pressures and fear of judgment.
Authentic connections are important in personal and professional relationships as they foster trust and support.
Vulnerability, empathy, and active listening are key factors in building authentic connections.
Engaging in genuine conversations and asking meaningful questions can lead to authentic connections.
To listen to the full episode and engage in authentic conversations, visit https://daphnahorowitz.com/leadership-podcast/ . Stay tuned for more enlightening content from Leadership Live.
Timestamps:
0:00:06
Importance of authentic connections
0:02:27
Defining authenticity and its importance in relationships
0:05:43
Why is it hard to build authentic connections 
0:08:01
Personal story of vulnerability leading to stronger connections
0:10:56
Importance of authentic connections in leadership
0:13:07
Put yourself in the shoes of others and truly listen to their stories
0:13:36
Reach out to someone and have a genuine conversation
0:14:11
Reflect on when you last reached out for support or guidance
0:15:15
Identify barriers to asking for help 
0:15:45
What do you need to work on for authentic connections?
0:16:17
Authenticity is the key to unlocking meaningful relationships
0:16:53
Journey to extraordinary leadership starts from within

 

 
Get in touch with Daphna Horowitz:
 
Official website:
www.daphnahorowitz.com 
LinkedIn: 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/daphnahorowitz/
Youtube:
https://www.youtube.com/user/daphna1231
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/PEACSolutions/
 

In this conversation with Moshe David, a British-Israeli serial entrepreneur, startup founder, angel investor, and advisor, Moshe discusses his diverse career journey, from running a web agency to fintech development and his current projects in DeFi blockchain and AI-powered fundraising. We also touch on Moshe's passion for MMA and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu, his love for football, and his transition to a sober, alcohol-free lifestyle. Join the conversation as Moshe shares insights on entrepreneurship and his personal experience of overcoming illness while spearheading a fintech startup, the importance of having mentors and supportive investors. The discussion touches on the balance between work and personal life, managing ADHD, prioritization, and self-awareness as key factors in effective leadership.
 
Who is Moshe David?
Moshe David is a British-Israeli serial entrepreneur, startup founder, angel investor, and advisor to early-stage ventures. He is the editor of the English tech and startup desk at Ynet and has recently launched the Iron Links Network. Moshe has a diverse background in web agency management, fintech development, and blockchain technology. He is known for his expertise in the startup ecosystem and his ability to navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship.
 
Social media links:
Website: www.moshedavid.xyz 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/moshe-david-rubi/
 
Timestamps:
 
0:01:07
Introduction of Moshe David and his background
0:03:10
Unique challenges founders face
0:05:30
Illness and its impact on his role as a founder
0:09:57
The future of the business
0:12:49
Importance of mentors and solid relationships with investors
0:17:05
Balancing work and personal life as a founder
0:19:34
Ultimate responsibility toward family
0:22:58
Conversations about success in marriage and startups
0:25:57
Investor's priority is the entrepreneur and the journey, not just the money
0:27:40
Balancing income generation and pursuing passion projects
0:30:13
Discovering and managing ADHD as a founder
0:32:19
The importance of having a visionary and an integrator
0:35:10
Self-awareness and understanding of personal strengths and weaknesses
0:37:24
Strategies for managing impulsive behavior
0:38:57
Recommendations for entrepreneurs: self-reflection and finding a co-founder
0:40:46
Challenges faced by businesses during the war
0:50:06
Iron Links Network as a platform for business advocacy
0:53:15
The future of business: Decentralized economy and AI
    Key Takeaways: The founder's journey is characterized by unpredictability and the ability to navigate challenges. Building a strong support network, including mentors and supportive investors, is crucial for success.
Balancing work and personal life is a challenge for founders. Open and honest conversations with family members and loved ones about expectations and support are essential.
Prioritization is a constant struggle for founders. Understanding personal strengths and weaknesses, as well as enlisting the help of complementary team members, can help manage priorities effectively.
Self-awareness is imperative for leadership. Recognizing behavioral patterns and understanding one's strengths and weaknesses allows for better decision-making and the ability to rectify mistakes.

Get in touch with Daphna Horowitz:
Official website:
www.daphnahorowitz.com 
LinkedIn: 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/daphnahorowitz/
Youtube:
https://www.youtube.com/user/daphna1231
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/PEACSolutions/
 

In this episode, Daphna interviews Daniel Levitats, the man behind the success of Datum Dental. During the covid pandemic, Daniel and the company’s team decided to cut down their business expenses but decided to expand the directions on the market. The courage to dream big paid off; today, the company is one of the most successful of its kind. Tune in, because Daniel shares his 5 key leadership lessons and you need to hear them. 
 
Who’s Daniel Levitats?
Daniel Levitats is a man who sets high bars and keeps raising them, no stranger to the high-tech world with 16 years under his belt driving business transformation, process change, and implementing foundations for accelerated growth, in fast-growing Nasdaq traded companies (Mercury, NICE).
 
Social media and links: 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-levitats-6a25ab4/
English - https://www.datumdental.com/en/resources/patients/while-large-scale-corporations/  
Original: https://www.globes.co.il/news/article.aspx?did=1001361282#utm_source=Apps&utm_medium=SharedTo
 
https://www.medicaltechoutlook.com/magazines/December2020/MedTech_APAC/?digitalmagazine#page=22
 
Timestamps:
1:05 Let’s welcome Daniel Levitats to the show
2:46 Covid-era: tough times bring the time for the correct decisions 
10:05 Dramatic changes and conditions- the adjustment of the market
11:29 Smart marketing can grow the business and recreate the models
13:20 Do the opposite- go against what everyone else is doing (marketing tip)
13:49 Investment expenses can act as marketing expenses
15:31 Creating a turnaround in the company- encourage the employees to go along with the changes
19:10 Lesson 1- Using change to your advantage
30:00 Lesson 2- Sticking to the core values
34:22 Lesson 3- Stay close to the people in your company
35:58 Lesson 4- You’re strong when you share your knowledge
38:09 Lesson 5- Dreaming big and planting seeds
41:05 What has been the hardest lesson about leadership that you had to unlearn?
 
Get in touch with Daphna Horowitz:
Official website:
www.daphnahorowitz.com 
LinkedIn: 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/daphnahorowitz/
Youtube:
https://www.youtube.com/user/daphna1231
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/PEACSolutions/
 

In this episode, Daphna interviews Michael Bungay Stanier, author of "How to Work With (Almost) Anyone." The discussion leads to the importance of being authentic and embracing our good and not-so-good aspects. Michael shares a quirky story about a high school prank and how it relates to his work in disrupting traditional leadership and empowering others through coaching. The focus stays on exploring the concept of keystone conversations and building strong relationships at work. Tune in to discover Michael's unique perspective on life and coaching..
 
Who’s Michael Bungay-Stanier?
Michael Bungay-Stanier is a renowned leadership coach, author, and speaker. He authorizes several books, including "The Coaching Habit" and "How to Work With Almost Anyone." Michael is known for his humorous and quirky approach to coaching and is dedicated to helping people realize their potential and improve their working relationships.



Social media links: 
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/michaelbungaystanier/
Website: www.MBS.works
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdFUOWjr4uI6T45zN1uJZ3Q
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/mbs.works
Order the Book: How to Work with (Almost) Everyone: Building the Best Possible Relationship https://www.amazon.com/How-Work-Almost-Anyone-Relationship/dp/B0C1TDT5X9/ref=sr_1_1?keywords=Michael+Bungay-Stanier&qid=1695060632&sr=8-1
Order the Book: The Coaching Habit https://www.amazon.com/Coaching-Habit-Less-Change-Forever/dp/0978440749/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1695060732&sr=8-3 
 
Timestamps:
[00:01:21] The balloon incident. 
[00:03:46] Disrupting old-school leadership. 
[00:07:31] Being real in this world. 
[00:12:16] Being a bad CEO. 
[00:15:13] What's your best? 
[00:18:48] Self growth in the workplace. 
[00:22:58] Challenging working relationships. 
[00:24:30] Relationships and personal growth. 
[00:29:50] Be the person who starts. 
[00:31:11] Maintaining a working relationship. 
[00:34:11] Building trust and connection.
 
Key takeaways:
Embrace your full humanity, including both your strengths and weaknesses.
Power can be disruptive and abusive, but coaching can empower and disrupt hierarchy.
Understand the difference between what you are good at and what fulfills you.
Building strong working relationships requires ongoing maintenance and open communication.
Be the person who starts difficult conversations and be brave enough to address challenging topics.
 
Get in touch with Daphna Horowitz:
 
Official website:
www.daphnahorowitz.com 
LinkedIn: 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/daphnahorowitz/
Youtube:
https://www.youtube.com/user/daphna1231
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/PEACSolutions/



 

Intro:
Why do Startups need to master the art of storytelling? 
In today's fast-paced world, there is an abundance of information and distractions. A well-crafted and engaging story can capture people's attention and make them curious about the startup's products or services.
In this episode of Leadership Live, our guest Donna Griffit, a corporate storyteller and pitch alchemist, shares insights on the importance of storytelling for startups. She emphasizes the need to polish and refine the ideas and visions of startups, comparing them to diamonds that require tending to before they can shine. Donna's expertise in helping startups create and deliver compelling presentations and pitches shines through as she discusses the power of storytelling in driving results for these emerging companies.
 Tune in and let's explore the mastery of storytelling now. 
 
Who's Donna Griffit?
Donna Griffit is a Corporate Storyteller, Pitch Alchemist for StartUps, and Best Selling Author of the book “Sticking to My Story - The Alchemy Of Storytelling For Startups”. She has worked globally for over 17 years with Fortune 500 companies, startups, and investors in a wide variety of industries, helping them create and deliver presentations, pitches, and messages; she knows how to spin raw data to drive results.
 
Social media links:
Donna Griffit’s Website: https://donnagriffit.com/
Donna’s Book: Sticking to My Story: The Alchemy of Storytelling for Startups
Linkedin Link: https://www.linkedin.com/in/donnaabraham/ 
Facebook Link: https://www.facebook.com/donna.abraham 
 
Timestamps:
0:02:35 The story of a startup and its significance
0:03:42 The power of storytelling and its impact
0:08:17 Tips for writing a winning pitch deck
0:10:23 What investors look for in a pitch deck
0:21:41 Common mistakes in pitch deck presentations
0:25:07 Challenges faced by women founders in the startup world
0:31:07 Importance of being open to feedback as a founder
0:34:06 Opportunities in times of crisis
0:38:58 Conclusion and contact information



Key takeaways:
* Stories resonate with people on an emotional level and make presentations more memorable.
* Startups should distill their message in a clear and inspiring way to engage their audience.
* Pitch decks should include the problem, solution, business model, and vision for the future.
* Investors look for urgent needs, market trends, and signals when evaluating startups.
* Women founders should be bold in showcasing their achievements and numbers in their pitch decks.
 
Get in touch with Daphna Horowitz:
 
Official website:
www.daphnahorowitz.com 
LinkedIn: 
https://www.linkedin.com/in/daphnahorowitz/
Youtube:
https://www.youtube.com/user/daphna1231
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/PEACSolutions/