The Connected Leadership Podcast

Evergreen Podcasts
The Connected Leadership Podcast

Speaker and author on professional relationships, Andy Lopata, explores great connections with experts and high achievers worldwide.

  1. Why Would People Recommend You? with Michael Roderick

    2일 전

    Why Would People Recommend You? with Michael Roderick

    In this episode of Connected Leadership Bytes, Andy Lopata revisits his interview with Michael Roderick, host of the "Access to Anyone" podcast, exploring the dynamics of recommendations and referrals. Michael, who transitioned from a high school teacher to a Broadway producer, shares his insights on how to build a personal brand that encourages people to recommend you. Andy and Michael note that people like to feel useful, not used. It's crucial to focus on the benefit you provide to clients rather than just describing what you do, framing it as solving a problem for them. This makes it easier for others to see how they can recommend you when the opportunity arises. Michael also discusses the nuances of reciprocity, highlighting that individuals have different impulses and timelines for reciprocating. Some feel compelled to immediately reciprocate, while others take time to vet those they recommend. Michael uses his "fast to view, slow to recommend" approach from his Broadway days as an example of considered and thoughtful recommendations. They also explore the importance of trust and consistency, emphasising the need to do what you say you'll do promptly to build confidence in your credibility. Furthermore, they address how word-of-mouth, qualified recommendations, and clear communication impact success. To build a personal brand for referrals, Michael uses the acronym "AIM" - Accessibility, Influence and Memory. You need to have an accessible message, make people look good when they share it, and be memorable. Ultimately, it is better to be focused on the curiosity it creates than the access it gains, as this will mean people will be more likely to recommend you. Key Takeaways: Focus on Usefulness, Not Just Functionality: When describing what you do, highlight the problem you solve for clients, making it easy for others to see who in their network could benefit. Reciprocity is Nuanced: Understand that people have different impulses and timelines for reciprocating. Some are quick to reciprocate, whilst others take a long time. Be aware of these differences. Consistency Builds Trust: Follow through on your commitments promptly to establish credibility and encourage recommendations. AIM for a Referrable Brand: Make your message accessible, so people understand it. Ensure it creates influence which helps the sharer to look good and create memory by using language, emotion, simplicity and structure. Prioritise Curiosity over Access: Craft your message to generate interest and curiosity rather than just focusing on getting in front of people. Stories Enhance Memorability: Use stories and metaphors to make your message more engaging and easier for others to remember and repeat accurately.   Connect with Andy Lopata: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | X/Twitter | YouTube Connect with Michael Roderick: Website |LinkedIn | The Financial Times Guide to Mentoring Episode 131 Featuring Michael Roderick

    25분
  2. The Mole and the Mountain: Navigating Your 2025 Journey with Jane Gunn

    1월 6일

    The Mole and the Mountain: Navigating Your 2025 Journey with Jane Gunn

    Welcome back to the Connected Leadership Podcast! We kick off 2025 with a returning guest, commercial mediator Jane Gunn, who joins Andy Lopata to discuss her new book, "The Mole and the Mountain." This parable explores the journey of overcoming obstacles and finding personal fulfillment, offering valuable insights for goal setting and personal growth in the New Year. Jane explains the two key principles of mediation that underpin the book: self-determination and being fully informed. She introduces the "Map of Experience" that guides the mole's journey and represents the stages of mediation. The first stage, "Now," involves understanding the narrative and identifying the challenges we face. This is about stepping out of our comfort zones and embracing curiosity. Andy and Jane then discuss the importance of mentorship in pushing ourselves out of our comfort zones and overcoming fear. Jane emphasises the role of a mentor who provides challenge without taking control. Next, they explore the fear of being wrong, a common obstacle in both mediation and personal life. Jane talks about shifting from a "win-lose" mindset to a "win-win" approach, emphasising the importance of understanding people's needs and interests rather than focusing on who is right or wrong. The focus turns to the importance of clarity in creating a vision for the future, the need to dig deep and understand what truly drives us. Andy and Jane also discuss the concept of "no one is coming to save us," the importance of self-determination and taking responsibility for our own decisions. Jane argues that mediation is a "grown-up" way of resolving disputes, allowing individuals to find creative solutions by taking control. Staying on track despite obstacles and setbacks, they share their personal experiences of perseverance and the importance of vision and a clear "why" to motivate them during difficult times. The episode concludes with a discussion on the importance of celebrating successes and recognising that failure can often be a stepping stone to greater success. What we discussed ·       How to deal with change that snatches us out of our comfort zone ·       How to overcome the fear that stops us following our dreams ·       How to create a clear vision of the future and belief that we can make it ·       How no one is coming to save us and we must dig deep when we are stuck ·       How to stay on track and never give up despite the obstacles and setbacks ·       How hardship and pain is part of the journey and path to triumph ·       How in the end it is up to us to decide and no one can take the journey for us Connect with Andy Lopata: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | X/Twitter | YouTube Connect with Jane Gunn: Website |LinkedIn |X/Twitter The Financial Times Guide to Mentoring The Mole and the Mountain

    41분
  3. Bytes; Vulnerability, Habits, and Productising Your Business with Andy Lopata

    2024. 12. 30.

    Bytes; Vulnerability, Habits, and Productising Your Business with Andy Lopata

    In this episode of Connected Leadership Bytes, Andy Lopata revisits his interview with Malcolm Palmer on making Making Your Business Less Dependent On You. Andy and Malcolm discuss the challenges of business ownership, stress management, and the importance of strong professional relationships. Andy shares his personal journey of learning to cope with stress, highlighting the need to recognise both conscious and unconscious stress signals. Andy also emphasises the importance of vulnerable leadership, sharing experiences that led to him writing his book "Just Ask." He stresses the need for balance between work and personal life, incorporating hobbies and healthy activities into his schedule as part of his job.  Complacency is a major enemy of productivity, and the key to overcoming it is to build habits and find strategic ways of working. Andy also mentions the importance of strategic thinking, taking time to work on big projects, and being mindful. Andy and Malcolm also explore the concept of "catastrophising"—anticipating" potential disasters to proactively avoid them—and the importance of letting go of negative relationships to improve focus and productivity. Andy concludes with insights into transitioning the business from being time-based to product-based and his plans for an app, The Relationship Matrix, which he is piloting. Key Takeaways: Recognise and Manage Stress: Business owners often hide stress, but it's essential to understand both conscious and unconscious stress signals.  Vulnerable Leadership: Be open and share with your team, but strategically and when it's appropriate, trust builds strong relationships. Authenticity and transparency make you relatable. Balance is Key: It’s vital to schedule in personal time, hobbies and health. By treating wellness as part of your job, you make it non-negotiable. Combat Complacency: Be wary of complacency and create habits that help your business grow. Build in processes to allow time for the important but not urgent tasks. Strategic Time Management: Prioritise deep work and focus on important tasks rather than the easy wins first.  Relationships Matter: Build strong, positive professional relationships with the right people and let go of negative relationships to improve productivity. Be ready to move on from relationships that aren’t strong. SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE Connect with Andy Lopata: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | X/Twitter | YouTube Connect with Malcom Palmer: Website |LinkedIn | The Financial Times Guide to Mentoring

    21분
  4. Connected Leadership Bytes: Investing in Relationships for Success with Melina Palmer

    2024. 12. 23.

    Connected Leadership Bytes: Investing in Relationships for Success with Melina Palmer

    In this episode, Andy Lopata revisits his guest interview with Melina Palmer on The Brainy Business Podcast, to explore the power of connected leadership. Andy, a master of networking, discusses his approach to building genuine, helpful relationships for both career advancement and business growth. He emphasises emphasizes that executive success depends on the network one builds, which goes beyond surface-level contacts. Andy shares insights on fostering "connected leadership" by surrounding yourself with people who can both offer help, want to help and know how to help. He explains that these elements are tied to performance, image, and exposure, a concept that can supercharge one's career. He reveals that people are more likely to support you not just because they're told to or see a personal gain, but because they genuinely like and trust you, making it important to nurture relationships by connecting on a human level. Andy further discusses how to move past fears of being seen as vulnerable when asking for help by reframing it as a request based on confidence and inner strength. He encourages listeners to make it easy for people to help them through clear, specific asks. Andy and Melina look The conversation delves into the importance of mentoring and letting supportive connections evolve naturally.Andy He stresses the need to balance giving and receiving while always prioritising prioritizing personal capacity. Finally, Andy introduces his "Curiosity Cycle," where curiosity, listening, authenticity and vulnerability interconnect to build meaningful relationships. Key Takeaways: Executive success is linked to the relationships one builds. People are motivated to help when they like and trust you. Asking for help is a strength, not a weakness. Be specific in your asks, and make it easy for people to help. Letting mentoring evolve naturally, and know when to say "no." Cultivate a mindset of curiosity, listening, authenticity, and vulnerability. SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE Connect with Andy Lopata: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | X/Twitter | YouTube Connect with Melina Palmer: Website |LinkedIn | The Financial Times Guide to Mentoring The Curiosity Cycle: Developing Trust and Engagement

    22분
  5. Designing Authentic Connection with Melva Lajoy Legrand

    2024. 12. 16.

    Designing Authentic Connection with Melva Lajoy Legrand

    This episode of Connected Leadership Bytes features a revisit of Andy's conversation with Melva Lajoy Legrand, a leading event planner. Andy and Melva discuss the art of creating authentic connections, not just at large-scale events but also within teams and with individual relationships. Melva emphasises the importance of designing experiences that make people feel seen, valued, and heard. She shares practical strategies for event organisers, including using icebreakers that encourage storytelling, and creating spaces catering to diverse personality types (introverts and extroverts). The conversation then extends beyond event planning, exploring how to foster authentic connections in the workplace and personal life. Melva reveals the significance of vulnerability and humility in building genuine relationships, both professionally and personally. They also touch upon the evolving landscape of events, with an emphasis on interactive experiences over traditional lecture formats, and pre-event engagement strategies for creating lasting connections with audiences.  In this episode, Andy asks Melva to share a podcast episode in which she tells her personal journey. Melva recommends listening to her podcast interview with Elizabeth Smart Foundation. Melva asked to stress that, "This post contains sensitive information which is meant to heal not harm. Read with care. Consider with compassion. Protect your peace." This episode of Connected Leadership Bytes offers a deep dive into the art of creating authentic connections, whether through events, leadership, or everyday interactions, and provides valuable insights for anyone looking to foster genuine relationships in their personal or professional life. Key Takeaways: Design for Connection: Creating events (or any interaction) should prioritise making people feel seen, valued, and heard. Authenticity is Key: Genuine connections are built on vulnerability, humility, and a willingness to share both successes and challenges. This fosters trust and deeper engagement. Know Your Audience: Recognise the diverse personality types within any group and design experiences that cater to introverts and extroverts alike. Avoid a one-size-fits-all approach. Beyond Job Titles: Encourage interactions based on shared experiences and stories rather than solely professional roles. This fosters a sense of community and belonging. Pre- and Post-Event Engagement: Extend the connection beyond the event itself through pre-event communication and post-event follow-up, creating a more lasting impact. The Power of Vulnerability: Openly sharing personal struggles can build stronger connections with others, fostering empathy and trust. It's important to do the personal work before sharing to ensure authenticity.   SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE Connect with Andy Lopata: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | X/Twitter | Youtube Connect with Melva Lajoy Legrand: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn

    21분
  6. Building Effective Professional Relationships: Interview with Andy Lopata

    2024. 12. 09.

    Building Effective Professional Relationships: Interview with Andy Lopata

    In this episode of Connected Leadership Bytes, Lisa Fane, CEO of the Center for Mentoring Excellence, and her colleague Michelle Hancock interview Andy Lopata. They discuss the importance of professional relationships, networking, and mentoring. Focusing on building authentic connections, understanding the difference between networking and professional relationships, and the concept of a personal board of advisors. Andy shares strategies for maintaining professional networks, the role of vulnerability in mentorship and the impact of remote work on mentoring and professional relationships. He emphasises the importance of consistency and frequency in building connections and offers insights into evolving mentoring practices in the modern workplace.   Key Takeaways Reframing Networking: Shifting the perception of "networking" to "professional relationship strategy." Focus on building genuine, long-term relationships based on mutual respect and trust. The Power of Personal Boards of Advisors (Mastermind Groups): Crucial for leveraging diverse expertise and perspectives, this peer-to-peer mentoring approach offers invaluable support, guidance, and problem-solving capabilities. Regular meetings are key. The Seven Stages of Professional Relationships: Andy highlights a model (detailed in his book Connected Leadership) outlining seven stages of relationship development. Focusing on strengthening relationships in the middle stages (where rapport and trust exist but advocacy hasn't fully developed) is more effective than constantly seeking new connections. Vulnerability and Trust: Authentic professional relationships require vulnerability from both the mentor and mentee. Sharing struggles, mistakes, and doubts builds stronger connections and increases the resonance of the mentorship. Avoiding Common Pitfalls: Common networking mistakes: prioritising quantity over quality, asking for help too soon, and treating relationships transactionally. Instead look for consistent, frequent engagement, and fostering genuine connections without an immediate expectation of return. The Evolution of Mentorship: Andy notes the shift in mentorship due to remote work and changing career paths. This necessitates a more inclusive approach, embracing virtual mentoring, cross-organisational collaborations, and adapting to the needs of younger generations who prioritise long-term development over short-term project-based coaching.   Connect with Andy Lopata: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | X/Twitter | YouTube Connect with Lisa Fain: Website |LinkedIn | Listen to the full episode here The Financial Times Guide to Mentoring

    25분
  7. Ridiculously Easy to Do Business With... David Avrin

    2024. 12. 02.

    Ridiculously Easy to Do Business With... David Avrin

    In this month’s premiere episode of the Connected Leadership Podcast, Andy Lopata interviews David Avrin. David is one of the most in-demand Customer Experience speakers and consultants in the world today, He has shared his content-rich, entertaining and actionable presentations with enthusiastic audiences across North America and in 24 countries around the world. David helps organisations better understand and connect with their customers and clients to help future-proof their businesses.  David's insights have been featured on thousands of media outlets around the world. He is also the author of seven books including the acclaimed: It's Not Who You Know, It's Who Knows You! Why Customers Leave (and How to Win Them Back), The Morning Huddle, and his newest book, Ridiculously Easy to Do Business With.  Andy and David explore the crucial differences between customer service and customer experience, highlighting that while good service is essential, it's the overall experience that truly drives customer loyalty in today's competitive market. David argues that while many businesses boast high-quality products and services, the experience they provide is often far from ideal, leading to customer frustration. Their conversation traces the changing landscape of customer interaction, particularly the role of social media and the increasing reliance on AI-powered chatbots. While social media once served as a powerful tool for holding companies accountable, its effectiveness appears to be waning, as organisations struggle to manage the sheer volume of feedback.  They also highlight the significant generational differences in customer expectations and preferences regarding technology. While younger generations are tech-savvy and prefer self-service options, older generations often require more personalised assistance. This necessitates an "omni-channel" approach, offering a variety of ways for customers to engage based on their individual needs and preferences. The overuse of surveys is criticised, with David suggesting that less frequent, shorter, and simpler surveys are more effective. Building relatability and likability within a brand's identity is emphasised, and it's suggested that businesses shouldn't necessarily aim to please everyone, but to be the best choice for their target audience.  Finally, Andy and David reflect on the importance of striking a balance between efficiency and personalisation, prioritising speed and respect for customers' time. They emphasise that while businesses strive for predictability and efficiency, they must not lose sight of the human element and the importance of making the customer experience not just competent, but preferable. What we discussed: 1.     Customer Service vs. Customer Experience: Understand the critical distinction and why customer experience trumps service in today's market. 2.     The Evolving Role of Social Media: Social media's influence on customer feedback is shifting and how businesses can adapt. 3.     AI and Human Interaction: What is the optimal balance between AI-driven efficiency and essential human interaction. 4.     Generational Differences: How to cater to the diverse needs and technological preferences of different generations. 5.     The Power of Feedback (and the Perils of Overdoing It): How to effectively gather and use customer feedback without causing frustration Listen to this episode to gain actionable insights into creating a superior customer experience, leveraging technology effectively, and navigating the complexities of a multi-generational market. Connect with Andy Lopata: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | X/Twitter | YouTube Connect with David Avrin: Website |LinkedIn |Facebook | YouTube The Financial Times Guide to Mentoring Ridiculously Easy to Do Business With.

    43분
  8. Complete Guide To Effective Mentoring with Andy Lopata

    2024. 11. 25.

    Complete Guide To Effective Mentoring with Andy Lopata

    In this episode of the Connected Leadership Bytes, we feature Andy Lopata’s guest interview on the Authority Podcast with Ross Romano. Andy is a specialist speaker on professional relationships and co-author with Dr Ruth Gotian, of the Financial Times Guide to Mentoring. Mentoring in its various forms and benefits for both mentors and mentees is discussed. Andy explains that mentoring isn't just a hierarchical senior-junior relationship; it can be reverse mentoring (junior mentoring senior), peer-to-peer and formal/informal approaches. He emphasises the importance of having a "mentoring team," drawing support from various individuals. Andy and Ross agree that the qualifications for being a mentor are experience and expertise rather than formal qualifications. Andy explains the distinctions between mentoring, coaching, role models, and sponsors. The podcast also discusses what mentors should expect from mentees (commitment, accountability, openness to challenge) and vice versa. Andy also advocates for an abundance mentality in mentoring, both at an individual and organisational level, arguing that investment in mentorship yields significant returns in terms of staff retention, upskilling, and creating a positive work environment. Key Takeaways: Diverse Mentoring Models: Andy shared that mentoring extends beyond the traditional hierarchical model to include reverse mentoring, peer-to-peer mentoring, and informal mentoring teams, catering to diverse needs and situations. Clarity of Objectives: He emphasised the crucial role of clearly defined goals and objectives for both mentor and mentee to ensure the relationship's effectiveness and to prevent it from stalling. Honest and Supportive Guidance: The balance between honest feedback and supportive encouragement is critical. Mentors should challenge mentees while providing the support needed to succeed. Accountability and Commitment: A successful mentoring relationship requires both parties' commitment and willingness to be held accountable for agreed-upon actions and goals. Organisational Mentorship Programmes: To be successful these programmes require strategic planning, senior management buy-in, and peer-level support to ensure effectiveness and prevent resentment within teams.   SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE Connect with Andy Lopata: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | X/Twitter | YouTube Connect with Ross Romano: Website |LinkedIn |X/Twitter The Financial Times Guide to Mentoring

    33분
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Speaker and author on professional relationships, Andy Lopata, explores great connections with experts and high achievers worldwide.

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