Managing Potential Podcast

Daniel Taylor

The podcast for managers and future leaders where we share stories from a wide range of people and sectors.

Episodes

  1. 2d ago

    Navigating Leadership, Unpaid Care Work, and Authenticity with Nic Booth

    Join Daniel Taylor as he explores leadership growth, supporting unpaid carers, and staying authentic with Nic Booth, founder of Daughterhood UK. In this episode, Nic shares her journey from social care professional to advocate, highlighting the importance of authentic leadership, embracing discomfort, and leveraging data to grow a meaningful social enterprise. Key topics - 5-10 bullets:Nic's background in social care, achieving success despite limited formal academicsHow her personal experience as an unpaid carer drives her mission with Daughterhood UKThe significance of authentic leadership and overcoming perceptions of being "too nice"Strategies for supporting unpaid carers in the workplace and advocating for policy changeThe power of coaching in developing leadership authenticity and tackling challenging conversationsThe importance of leaning into discomfort for personal and professional growthUsing data and key performance indicators to drive business growth in social careThe role of mindset and perspective in overcoming challenges and motivating othersPractical advice for new managers: find your authentic self and surround yourself with beliefNic’s big hairy audacious goal for Daughterhood UK to expand across the entire UKTimestamps: 00:00 - Introduction: Leadership, caring, and authenticity with Nic Booth 01:00 - Nic’s background: From social care to founding Daughterhood UK 02:26 - Personal journey as an unpaid carer and its influence on her mission 03:50 - The power of authentic leadership: overcoming being perceived as “too nice” 04:44 - Supporting unpaid carers in the workplace: challenges and solutions 06:55 - The importance of employer support and policy in retaining unpaid carers 08:50 - Developing leadership through coaching and authentic self-awareness 10:17 - Embracing discomfort for growth and challenging conversations 12:41 - Reflection, celebrating milestones, and managing imposter syndrome 13:34 - Power of coaching and mentorship in leadership development 15:13 - The impact of belief and mindset on achieving big goals 18:57 - Nic’s big audacious goal for Daughterhood UK expansion 19:42 - Key lessons learned: leaning into discomfort and authentic leadership 20:39 - Reflecting on achievements and the importance of taking stock 22:09 - Advice for new managers: find your authentic self and lead with conviction 23:18 - The role of data in driving social care and business success 25:48 - Intrinsic motivator: making a difference in others’ lives 26:39 - Question for future guests: how have your beliefs about leadership changed? 27:16 - Personal insight: leaning into challenging conversations for better outcomes 28:13 - Leaders must get comfortable being uncomfortable 30:39 - Book recommendation: "Traction" by Gina Wickman 30:25 - Follow on LinkedIn: Daniel Taylor and Daughterhood UK 30:39 - Inspirational quote: “You can do anything you put your mind to” 31:07 - What's your why? Reflecting on personal drivers and motivation 32:25 - Song that inspires resilience: “Lifeboat” by Ray Links Nic Booth MSc | LinkedIn Jaqui Temperley | LinkedIn (18) Daughterhood UK: Overview | LinkedIn Daughterhood UK | Practical support for unpaid carers

  2. Jul 30

    Why 'Less Talk, More Do' is the Secret to Building a High-Performance Culture"

    In this episode, we explore how organizations can genuinely embed their culture into daily practices, moving beyond mere words to real action. Nicholas Wardle, an award-winning culture practitioner and co-author of Monetizing the Employee Experience, shares insights from his 20-year journey supporting high-performance cultures across sectors. Key Topics The importance of "less talk, more do" in cultivating authentic company cultureHow senior leadership buy-in drives meaningful culture change, exemplified by Al Saya Franchising in KuwaitPractical strategies for empowering employees through regular one-on-one "power chats"The value of continuous improvement: tools like Culture Health Index (Qi) for real-time culture assessmentHow to develop and nurture high-potential talent early in managers' careersThe significance of authentic leadership and avoiding micromanagementInsights into creating a high-trust environment based on integrity and action Timestamps 02:31 - Why words are often empty without real action in organizational culture 04:17 - Case study: Kuwait's Al Saya Franchising and senior leadership commitment 05:36 - Implementing continuous improvement with the Culture Health Index and employee action plans 08:36 - Reflections on managerial styles and building meaningful relationships 09:05 - The power of regular "power chats" for team engagement 11:15 - Promoting talent and giving teams visibility to accelerate growth 12:38 - The importance of empowering employees and trusting team members 15:18 - Developing organizational potential through consistent feedback and adaptation 16:21 - Introducing Qi, the free culture survey tool and its benefits 19:12 - Asking "Are we delivering what our customers actually need?" 20:15 - Big learning moments as a manager and avoiding common pitfalls 22:37 - Advice for new managers: the significance of personal initiative and authentic onboarding 27:19 - Guested question: What one change would increase happiness? 30:21 - Motivation and the importance of understanding intrinsic drivers 32:20 - The rewarding nature of helping others unlock their potential 34:32 - Book recommendation 37:47 - Song that describes Nicholas Resources & Links Fusion by Denise Lee YoungMonetizing the Employee Experience·  Al Sayer Franchising case study: https://www.brandexperiences.com/projects/our-recipe-for-a-great-culture-al-sayer-franchising/ ·  Mojo: https://mapmymojo.com/ Brand Experiences - Supporting EX and CXCulture Health Index (Qi)Marushka Bustani - LinkedInConnect with Nicholas Wardle LinkedInTwitter

  3. Jul 23

    Unlocking Human - AI Collaboration with Erica Farmer

    Discover how AI can enhance human potential, leadership, and organizational performance. In this episode, Erica Farmer, an expert in human-AI collaboration and author of AI for People Professionals, shares practical strategies for integrating AI into work and life to unlock personal and organizational benefits. Main TopicsThe evolving landscape of AI and its impact on managementNeurodiversity in leadership and how AI supports diverse needsPractical steps for managers to embrace AI confidentlyThe importance of mindset and emotional intelligence in AI adoptionPersonal development and maintaining happiness through AI and self-awarenessKey InsightsErica’s journey from corporate L&D to AI thought leader, emphasizing authentic learning and growth.The concept of the "AI dividend" — personal benefits gained from AI collaboration.How neurodiversity can serve as a strength when supported by AI, fostering better understanding and inclusion.Practical questions for leaders: How do you feel about AI? What is your personal benefit?The significance of mindset: Believing you can or cannot do something influences the outcome.The power of prompts, communication clarity, and emotional intelligence in managing AI effectively.Role of coaching and self-reflection in navigating career & leadership challenges.Identify one change to improve happiness and reduce stress using AI or self-awareness.Timestamp Highlights(00:00) - Introduction to Erica Farmer and her expertise (01:15) - The importance of practical AI implementation for organizations (02:07) - Erica’s background in corporate L&D and recent work with AI (04:00) - The need for accessible, step-by-step AI guidance (06:35) - Neurodivergence’s role in leadership and the potential of AI (08:05) - How AI can support neurodivergent individuals in corporate environments (10:07) - Developing potential through continuous learning and curiosity (12:27) - AI as a tool for better management and communication (15:02) - First steps for managers: understand and explore feelings about AI (16:55) - Identifying personal "AI dividends" for wellbeing and efficiency (17:49) - Lessons learned from managing teams and the importance of self-awareness (22:31) - Advice for new managers: discover what truly motivates you (26:02) - The significance of reflection and making intentional career choices (30:22) - Final quick-hitters Resources & Links:AI for People ProfessionalsBook: How to Win Friends and Influence PeopleHaley Byrd on LinkedInConnect with Erica Farmer:LinkedInTwitter

  4. Jul 15

    Great Managers Ask Great Questions to Lead With Curiosity & Kindness

    In this episode, Michelle Parry-Slater joins Daniel Taylor and shares her insights on leadership, talent development, and the importance of curiosity, kindness, and reflection in management. She discusses her career journey, managing across continents, and lessons learned from challenging experiences.    The importance of curiosity and kindness in leadership Developing talent through reflection and feedback Leaders should focus on unleashing potential, not just giving answers. Reflection is key to learning and growth in leadership. Trust and due diligence are crucial in partnerships and projects. Living in your joy and strengths leads to fulfillment and success.   Chapters   00:00 Introduction to Michelle Parry-Slater 01:11 The Journey of Learning and Development 03:29 Management Style and People Development 07:32 Developing Talent and Self-Awareness 10:46 Finding Joy in Work and Life 13:46 Learning from Difficult Experiences 20:44 Leading with Kindness and Curiosity 22:16 Embracing Uncertainty in Management 26:07 Strengths-Based Leadership 28:11 The Cost of Misplaced Trust 32:52 Navigating Relocation Challenges 34:01 Creating a Thinking Environment 36:05 Quick 5 Andy Lancaster https://www.linkedin.com/in/andy-lancaster/ Erica Farmer https://www.linkedin.com/in/ericafarmer/ & Egle Vinauskaite https://www.linkedin.com/in/vinauskaite/ Dani Bacon  https://www.linkedin.com/in/danibacon478/ & Garin Rouch https://www.linkedin.com/in/garinrouch/ Bree Gorman. https://www.linkedin.com/in/breegormandeicoach/   Podcasts Garin & Dani's Org Dev https://distinction.live/orgdev-podcast/ John Helmer's Learning Hack https://learninghackpodcast.com/ Learning From The Edges https://www.kairosmodernlearning.com/podcast/ Learning Uncut https://learninguncut.global/podcast/   Books The Color Purple by Alice Walker Time to Think by Nancy Kline The Promise That Changes Everything by Nancy Kline Ian Pettigrew Hope is a Strategy  Meg Peppin http://www.mppartnership.co.uk/thinking-environment-1 LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/michelleparryslater/ Twitter - https://twitter.com/michelleparrystl

  5. Jul 6

    Redefining Roles: Why AI is About Repurpose, Not Replacement

    In this episode of Managing Potential, Daniel kicks off Series Two with a fresh format and a big conversation: why AI isn’t replacing jobs—it’s repurposing them. Fresh from the CIPD Festival of Work, Daniel unpacks the shift in how organisations are using AI, moving beyond fear and into opportunity. He explores real-world case studies—from IKEA transforming 8,500 customer service reps into interior design consultants, to Airbus embedding AI skills across its global workforce—to show how smart leaders are elevating human capability rather than cutting it. This insight episode dives into the evolving role of managers, the skills people need to stay future‑ready, and the mindset shift required to thrive in an AI‑enabled workplace. It’s a practical, optimistic look at how leaders can guide teams through change, unlock higher‑value work, and reshape roles with confidence and empathy. Each week, join Daniel Taylor, L&D expert, coach and management / leadership development professional, as we sit down with seasoned managers to deconstruct their greatest breakthroughs, their toughest challenges, and the life lessons they’ve gathered along the way. If you’re looking to turn talent into performance, you’re in the right place. Make sure to subscribe wherever you listen to a podcast so you don't miss the launch episode and to join our community.  Want more? Visit ManagingPotentialPodcast.com to sign up for our newsletter and get regular leadership insights delivered straight to your inbox. Copyright: ManagingPotentialPodcast.com 2026.

  6. Apr 14

    Managing Potential Podcast: Houra Amin: Consider the Shadow You Cast As a Manager

    In this energising and thought‑provoking episode, Houra Amin dives into one of the most overlooked truths of leadership: every manager casts a shadow. Whether you realise it or not, your tone, your clarity, your confidence, and even your hesitations ripple outwards and shape the people around you. Houra reflects on why getting your impact right isn’t a “nice to have” — it’s the heartbeat of great leadership. She explores how your shadow can either stretch your colleagues into their potential or unintentionally shrink their ambition. And she makes a powerful case for why clarity isn’t just helpful, it’s transformative.  When people know what you expect, what you believe in, and what you see in them, they rise. Expect an upbeat, inspiring conversation filled with practical insights on: • How to become more conscious of the shadow you cast • Why clarity is the most generous gift you can give your team • What it really means to stretch someone in a way that empowers, not overwhelms • How small shifts in your behaviour can create big shifts in others This is a warm, uplifting reminder that leadership isn’t about perfection — it’s about intention. And when you get intentional about your impact, you unlock the best in yourself and everyone around you. If you’re ready to lead with more purpose, more positivity, and more stretch, this episode will light the way. Connect with Houra on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/houraamin/ Here are the links, as discussed in the podcast: Book recommendation: Thinking, Fast and Slow by Daniel Kahneman: https://amzn.to/4cl3I1vLinkedIn follow recommendation: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lizwiseman/Houra's website: https://bluejaylearning.com/Each week, join Daniel Taylor, L&D expert, coach and management / leadership development professional, as we sit down with seasoned managers to deconstruct their greatest breakthroughs, their toughest challenges, and the life lessons they’ve gathered along the way. If you’re looking to turn talent into performance, you’re in the right place. Make sure to subscribe wherever you listen to a podcast so you don't miss the launch episode and to join our community.  Want more? Visit ManagingPotentialPodcast.com to sign up for our newsletter and get regular leadership insights delivered straight to your inbox. Copyright: ManagingPotentialPodcast.com 2026.

    Managing Potential Podcast: Houra Amin: Consider the Shadow You Cast As a Manager
  7. Mar 18

    Managing Potential Podcast: Gary Butterfield: Power of Good Appraisals But Make Sure To Listen

    Gary dives into the real power of a great appraisal conversation and how it can genuinely transform someone’s working life. He explores why being a truly attentive listener—especially when it comes to wellbeing—matters more than ever, and how showing up for each other builds stronger, healthier teams.  This episode is packed with reminders that small, thoughtful actions can create big shifts in confidence, performance, and overall wellbeing. It’s all about making work a more supportive, human place to be. Connect with Gary on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/garybpt/  Each week, join Daniel Taylor, L&D expert, coach and management / leadership development professional, as we sit down with seasoned managers to deconstruct their greatest breakthroughs, their toughest challenges, and the life lessons they’ve gathered along the way. If you’re looking to turn talent into performance, you’re in the right place. Here are the links, as discussed in the podcast: https://www.joyjunction.co.uk/links/managing-potential-podcast-march-2026 Plus, details of It's a piece of cake 10K and not Cake Race as I remembered.  Make sure to subscribe wherever you listen to a podcast so you don't miss the launch episode and to join our community.  Want more? Visit ManagingPotentialPodcast.com to sign up for our newsletter and get regular leadership insights delivered straight to your inbox. Copyright: ManagingPotentialPodcast.com 2026.  Welcome to Managing Potential, is the podcast where we go behind the scenes with the world’s most impactful leaders.  Each week, join Daniel Taylor, L&D expert, coach and management / leadership development professional, as we sit down with seasoned managers to deconstruct their greatest breakthroughs, their toughest challenges, and the life lessons they’ve gathered along the way. If you’re looking to turn talent into performance, you’re in the right place. Want more? Visit ManagingPotentialPodcast.com to sign up for our newsletter and get regular leadership insights delivered straight to your inbox.

  8. Feb 25

    Managing Potential Podcast: Sharon Green: Leading change with confidence, curiosity and human touch?

    What does it take to lead change with confidence, curiosity, and a truly human touch? In this episode of Managing Potential, Daniel Taylor is joined by Sharon Green professional interim, qualified coach, consultant, and founder of Chiara Consultancy. Sharon brings warmth, clarity, and a wealth of experience as she dives into the world of organisational development and the power of putting people at the heart of change. She shares how relationship management, influence, and negotiation shape her work as an interim—and how being a lifelong learner keeps her growing, adapting, and making a meaningful impact. Expect honest reflections, practical insights, and a positive, curious look at what it really means to support organisations through change while staying grounded in your values. Perfect for anyone passionate about leadership, organisational development, change management, and the mindset of a truly human‑centred practitioner. Connect with Sharon on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/sharongreenchiara/ Each week, join Daniel Taylor, L&D expert, coach and management / leadership development professional, as we sit down with seasoned managers to deconstruct their greatest breakthroughs, their toughest challenges, and the life lessons they’ve gathered along the way. If you’re looking to turn talent into performance, you’re in the right place. Here are the links, as discussed in the podcast: Rachel Wilson-Rugelsjøen https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-wilson-rugelsj%C3%B8en/ Dr Shereen Daniels https://www.linkedin.com/in/shereen-daniels/  The books are: Ros Jay: How to Handle Tough Situations at Work - https://amzn.to/4awM1fL Margaret Heffernan: Wilful Blindness: Why we ignore the obvious - https://amzn.to/4aM7jES Make sure to subscribe wherever you listen to a podcast so you don't miss the launch episode and to join our community.  Want more? Visit ManagingPotentialPodcast.com to sign up for our newsletter and get regular leadership insights delivered straight to your inbox. Copyright: ManagingPotentialPodcast.com 2026.

  9. Feb 18

    Managing Potential Podcast: Lyndon Roberts - Driving Culture & Inclusion On The Global Stage

    Ready for a leadership boost that feels fresh, global, and genuinely inspiring? In this episode of Managing Potential, Daniel Taylor sits down with Lyndon Roberts, Expert Consultant at the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA), for a lively conversation about what modern management development really looks like on the world stage. Lyndon brings big energy and big insight—sharing how equality, representation, and truly listening to people can transform teams, organisations, and leaders everywhere. From global motorsport to everyday management challenges, he offers practical ideas you can put to work straight away. Perfect for anyone who wants to grow as a leader, build more inclusive teams, and enjoy a positive, forward‑thinking take on management development, leadership skills, and global organisational culture. Connect with Lyndon on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lyndon-roberts/ Each week, join Daniel Taylor, L&D expert, coach and management / leadership development professional, as we sit down with seasoned managers to deconstruct their greatest breakthroughs, their toughest challenges, and the life lessons they’ve gathered along the way. If you’re looking to turn talent into performance, you’re in the right place. Here are the links, as discussed in the podcast: Dr. Jonathan Ashong-Lamptey | LinkedIn John Amaechi OBE | LinkedIn Jackson Katz, Ph.D. | LinkedIn  Every Man: Why Violence Against Women is a Men’s Issue, and How You Can Make a Difference : Katz, Dr Jackson: Amazon.co.uk: Books  The Most Wuthering Heights Day Ever 2026 - Margate Tickets, Sun, 26 Jul 2026 at 12:00 | Eventbrite Make sure to subscribe wherever you listen to a podcast so you don't miss the launch episode and to join our community.  Want more? Visit ManagingPotentialPodcast.com to sign up for our newsletter and get regular leadership insights delivered straight to your inbox. Copyright: ManagingPotentialPodcast.com 2026.

  10. Feb 8

    Managing Potential Podcast: From Manager to Author: David Hayden on Growth, Creativity & Leadership

    Looking for leadership inspiration with a spark of creativity and real‑world experience? In this episode of Managing Potential, Daniel Taylor is joined by David Hayden—leadership expert, Director of Talent Delivers, and author of three insightful books on learning and development. David brings a warm, engaging perspective as he shares how his management journey shaped him not only as a leader but also as a writer. Expect practical ideas, uplifting stories, and a refreshing take on what great management development looks like today. Perfect for listeners who want to grow their leadership skills, boost their confidence, and explore the mindset behind effective managers, coaches, and authors Each week, join Daniel Taylor, L&D expert, coach and management / leadership development professional, as we sit down with seasoned managers to deconstruct their greatest breakthroughs, their toughest challenges, and the life lessons they’ve gathered along the way. If you’re looking to turn talent into performance, you’re in the right place. Here are the links, as discussed in the podcast: -          Davids books are available to buy https://www.amazon.co.uk/Adjacent-Learning-Organization-Workplace-Performance/dp/1398608238 David recommended the following books https://www.amazon.co.uk/Everything-We-Know-Wrong-Spotters/dp/9814328057 Stephen Coveys 7 Habits - https://amzn.to/4koOgFa  David recommended connecting with: https://www.linkedin.com/posts/nick-williamson-b3904841_diary-of-a-gen-x-job-hunter-chapter-2-activity-7424738278890807296-vWDE https://www.linkedin.com/in/garinrouch/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/fionamcbride/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/phil-willcox-emotion/ The podcast - 25 leaders - G Evans -  youtube.com/watch?si=gThCORD6ScXQglwN&v=p4Cvdff94R0&feature=youtu.be Make sure to subscribe wherever you listen to a podcast so you don't miss the launch episode and to join our community.  Want more? Visit ManagingPotentialPodcast.com to sign up for our newsletter and get regular leadership insights delivered straight to your inbox. Copyright: ManagingPotentialPodcast.com 2026.  Welcome to Managing Potential, is the podcast where we go behind the scenes with the world’s most impactful leaders. Each week, join Daniel Taylor, L&D expert, coach and management / leadership development professional, as we sit down with seasoned managers to deconstruct their greatest breakthroughs, their toughest challenges, and the life lessons they’ve gathered along the way. If you’re looking to turn talent into performance, you’re in the right place. Want more? Visit ManagingPotentialPodcast.com to sign up for our newsletter and get regular leadership insights delivered straight to your inbox. Welcome to Managing Potential, is the podcast where we go behind the scenes with the world’s most impactful leaders.  Each week, join Daniel Taylor, L&D expert, coach and management / leadership development professional, as we sit down with seasoned managers to deconstruct their greatest breakthroughs, their toughest challenges, and the life lessons they’ve gathered along the way. If you’re looking to turn talent into performance, you’re in the right place. Want more? Visit ManagingPotentialPodcast.com to sign up for our newsletter and get regular leadership insights delivered straight to your inbox.

  11. Jan 22

    Managing Potential: Gary Cookson - Culture of a Team and Learning Through Mistakes

    What if your biggest mistakes turned out to be your greatest leadership lessons? In this episode of Managing Potential, Daniel Taylor is joined by Gary Cookson—Director of Epic HR and author of three insightful books on people development. Gary brings humour, honesty, and a refreshingly real take on leadership as he explores how getting things wrong can actually make managers stronger, wiser, and more human. He shares the missteps that shaped his expertise, the lessons he wishes more leaders embraced, and why learning through experience is at the heart of great management development. Perfect for anyone who wants to grow their leadership confidence, build resilient teams, and enjoy a positive, practical look at what it really takes to develop as a manager. Each week, join Daniel Taylor, L&D expert, coach and management / leadership development professional, as we sit down with seasoned managers to deconstruct their greatest breakthroughs, their toughest challenges, and the life lessons they’ve gathered along the way. If you’re looking to turn talent into performance, you’re in the right place. Here are the links, as discussed in the podcast: -          Search for #AdventBlogs on LinkedIn to access the blogs -          www.DanielTaylorDevelopment.com/Blogs to access the AdventBlogs -          Garys books are available to buy from https://www.amazon.co.uk/stores/Gary-Cookson/author/B09R4N5RN6  -          https://www.linkedin.com/in/katiecookson -          https://www.linkedin.com/in/philcookson -          https://www.linkedin.com/in/edmonk Make sure to subscribe wherever you listen to a podcast so you don't miss the launch episode and to join our community.  Want more? Visit ManagingPotentialPodcast.com to sign up for our newsletter and get regular leadership insights delivered straight to your inbox. Copyright: ManagingPotentialPodcast.com 2026.  Welcome to Managing Potential, is the podcast where we go behind the scenes with the world’s most impactful leaders.  Each week, join Daniel Taylor, L&D expert, coach and management / leadership development professional, as we sit down with seasoned managers to deconstruct their greatest breakthroughs, their toughest challenges, and the life lessons they’ve gathered along the way. If you’re looking to turn talent into performance, you’re in the right place. Want more? Visit ManagingPotentialPodcast.com to sign up for our newsletter and get regular leadership insights delivered straight to your inbox.

About

The podcast for managers and future leaders where we share stories from a wide range of people and sectors.