Leadership with Sonia

Sonia McDonald

Leadership isn't a title — it's how you show up. Welcome to Leadership with Sonia. Real conversations. Courageous leadership. I'm Sonia McDonald — CEO and Founder of LeadershipHQ, keynote speaker, executive coach, and author of First Comes Courage, Leadership Attitude and Just Rock It! For more than 35 years I've worked with leaders and teams across Australia and beyond, helping them lead with courage, kindness and impact. This show is where leadership gets real. No fluff. No jargon. No corporate speak. Just honest conversations about what it actually takes to lead — backed by neuroscience and decades of experience in the trenches. What you'll get every episode: 🎙️ Real talk on courageous leadership — including the conversations most leaders avoid 🧠 The brain science behind great leadership, explained simply 💛 Practical tools you can use the same day — at work, at home, in life 🔥 Stories from the front line of leadership — the wins, the failures and the lessons 🚀 Interviews with leaders who lead with heart and back themselves Whether you're a CEO, an emerging leader, or someone rebuilding your career from scratch (I've been there — 40 job rejections before I built my own company), this podcast is for you. Because the world needs great leadership — and it starts with you. New episodes weekly. Subscribe so you never miss one. Connect with Sonia: 🌐 Website: https://www.soniamcdonald.com.au 🏢 LeadershipHQ: https://www.leadershiphq.com.au 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/soniamcdonald 📚 Books: First Comes Courage | Leadership Attitude | Just Rock It! ✉️ Newsletter: sign up at leadershiphq.com.au Work with Sonia: Keynote speaking | Executive coaching | Leadership programs | Courageous Conversations workshops #Leadership #CourageousLeadership #LeadershipDevelopment #ExecutiveCoaching #Neuroscience #WomenInLeadership #LeadershipPodcast

  1. Jul 25

    Episode 20: Vale, Sam Neill. And Call Your Mum. | Leadership with Sonia

    Leadership is not measured by titles, achievements, or fame. It is measured by the lives we touch, the values we leave behind, and the people who shape us along the way. In this deeply personal episode of Leadership with Sonia, Sonia McDonald reflects on the life, legacy, and humanity of one of the world's most admired actors, Sam Neill. A simple television interview became a powerful reminder that behind every successful person is a story of family, love, and the people who helped shape them. When Sam Neill was asked about his mother, the conversation revealed something far greater than celebrity, it revealed vulnerability, gratitude, and the enduring impact of those who raise us. This episode explores one of the most important leadership lessons of all: leadership is not about status or recognition. It is about the legacy we create through kindness, humility, compassion, and the relationships we nurture throughout our lives. Sonia also invites listeners to reflect on the people who have influenced their own leadership journey and asks a simple but powerful question: What is the most important lesson your parents taught you? Whether you're leading a team, raising a family, or simply trying to become a better human, this episode is a reminder that our greatest leadership lessons often begin long before our careers do. In this episode, you'll discover:Why leadership is about legacy, not titles.The lasting impact of family, mentors, and role models.How vulnerability makes leaders more authentic.Why gratitude and reflection strengthen leadership.The importance of leading with kindness, humility, and purpose.A reminder to appreciate the people who matter most. Sometimes the greatest leadership lessons come from the quietest moments. Vale, Sam Neill. And call your mum. Learn more:🌐 Website: https://soniamcdonald.com 🎧 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/033UOd38a2S05vQO2nZcau?si=8492e89de06948ad 🍎 Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/leadership-with-sonia/id6794179566 Follow Sonia on Socials:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/soniamcdonald/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesoniamcdonald/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/soniamcdonald01 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sonia_mcdonald Stay kind. Stay courageous. #leadership #authenticleadership #humanleadership #leadershipdevelopment #leadershipmindset #leadershippodcast #legacy #gratitude #personalgrowth #emotionalintelligence #selfleadership #kindness #resilientleadership #lifelessons #inspiration #keynotespeaker #motivationalspeaker #leadershipwithsonia #samneill #soniamcdonald

    Episode 20: Vale, Sam Neill. And Call Your Mum. | Leadership with Sonia

  2. Jul 25

    Episode 19: Nobody Toxic Ever Got Promoted, Sounding Unsure | Leadership with Sonia

    Great leadership is not about sounding the most confident. It is about having the courage to be honest, stay curious, and make better decisions. In this thought-provoking episode of Leadership with Sonia, Sonia McDonald explores why confidence is often mistaken for competence, and how this misunderstanding can lead organisations to promote the wrong people. Drawing on the research of Dr. Leanne ten Brinke, Director of the Truth and Trust Lab at the University of British Columbia and author of Poisonous People, Sonia explains why our brains naturally associate certainty with capability, even when confidence isn't backed by evidence. She also discusses why some toxic personalities rise into leadership positions and how organizations can avoid rewarding overconfidence while overlooking thoughtful, capable, and authentic leaders. This episode offers practical leadership insights for anyone responsible for hiring, promoting, or developing people, as well as anyone who has experienced working with a toxic leader or colleague. In this episode, you'll discover:Why confidence is often mistaken for competence.How toxic leadership behaviors can be rewarded.What the research says about psychopathy and leadership.Practical ways to identify genuine leadership potential.How to reward curiosity, honesty, and sound decision-making.Strategies for creating healthier, more trustworthy workplace cultures. Leadership is not about always having the answers. Sometimes the strongest leaders are those who are willing to say, "I'm not sure yet, let me find out." Have you ever seen confidence beat competence in the workplace? Share your experience in the comments, we'd love to hear your perspective. Learn more:🌐 Website: https://soniamcdonald.com 🎧 Listen on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/033UOd38a2S05vQO2nZcau?si=8492e89de06948ad 🍎 Listen on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/leadership-with-sonia/id6794179566 Follow Sonia on Socials:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/soniamcdonald/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesoniamcdonald/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/soniamcdonald01 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sonia_mcdonald Stay kind. Stay courageous. #leadership #leadershipdevelopment #authenticleadership #ethicalleadership #workplaceculture #leadershipmindset #emotionalintelligence #psychologicalsafety #trust #leadershippodcast #toxicleadership #peopleleadership #futureofwork #growthmindset #leadershipskills #keynotespeaker #motivationalspeaker #leadershipwithsonia #soniamcdonald #drleannetenbrinke

    Episode 19: Nobody Toxic Ever Got Promoted, Sounding Unsure | Leadership with Sonia

  3. 09/16/2024

    Episode 18: Leadership, Connection & Inclusion | Rachel & Tasha from Inclusi | Leadership with Sonia

    Leadership is about creating meaningful connections, building inclusive communities, and making every person feel valued. In this inspiring episode of Leadership with Sonia, Sonia McDonald is joined by Rachel, CEO of Inclusi, and Tasha, Strategic Partnerships Manager, for a powerful conversation about leadership, inclusion, and the importance of human connection. Together, they explore how meaningful relationships strengthen individuals, workplaces, and communities. Rachel and Tasha share the inspiring mission behind Inclusi, an organization dedicated to reducing social isolation and loneliness across Australia by creating opportunities for people to connect, contribute, and belong. The conversation highlights the power of servant leadership, the value of embracing neurodiversity, and why creating inclusive environments helps people thrive. Sonia, Rachel, and Tasha also discuss the importance of mentorship, intergenerational learning, and building cultures where everyone feels heard, respected, and empowered. With more than 100,000 hours of connection already created, Inclusi continues to transform lives through community, collaboration, and purposeful leadership. Their vision reminds us that small acts of kindness and connection can create extraordinary impact. In this episode, you'll discover:Why human connection is at the heart of great leadership.How servant leadership builds stronger teams and communities.The importance of inclusion and embracing neurodiversity.How intergenerational mentoring creates meaningful impact.Why belonging and purpose improve wellbeing and workplace culture.Practical leadership lessons for creating more inclusive environments. Whether you're leading a team, supporting your community, or looking to make a greater impact, this episode will inspire you to lead with compassion, courage, and purpose. Learn more at: https://soniamcdonald.com Stay kind. Stay courageous. Follow Sonia on Socials:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/soniamcdonald/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesoniamcdonald/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/soniamcdonald01 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sonia_mcdonald #leadership #inclusiveleadership #servantleadership #humanconnection #belonging #neurodiversity #communityleadership #workplaceculture #leadershipdevelopment #authenticleadership #emotionalintelligence #socialimpact #leadershippodcast #mentorship #personalgrowth #keynotespeaker #motivationalspeaker #leadershipwithsonia #inclusi #soniamcdonald

    Episode 18: Leadership, Connection & Inclusion | Rachel & Tasha from Inclusi | Leadership with Sonia

  4. 09/09/2024

    Episode 17: What Great Leadership Really Looks Like | Paul Scurrah on Courage

    Great leadership is not defined by titles or authority. It is revealed through courage, integrity, and the choices we make when facing uncertainty. In this inspiring episode of Leadership with Sonia, Sonia McDonald is joined by Paul Scurrah, one of Australia's most respected business leaders, to explore what great leadership truly looks like in today's fast-changing world. With more than 25 years of experience leading organizations across transport, logistics, aviation, and major infrastructure, Paul shares powerful lessons from navigating some of the most challenging moments in business, including industry disruption, natural disasters, and organisational transformation. Together, Sonia and Paul discuss why courageous leadership begins with trust, humility, and clear communication. They explore how leaders can build resilient teams, make difficult decisions with confidence, and create workplace cultures where people feel respected, supported, and empowered to perform at their best. Paul also reflects on the importance of staying curious, learning from setbacks, and leading with authenticity. This conversation is a reminder that leadership is not about having all the answers, it is about showing up consistently, serving others, and making decisions that create lasting impact. In this episode, you'll discover:What courageous leadership looks like in practice.Why trust and communication are essential during uncertainty.How resilience helps leaders navigate change and adversity.The importance of humility, curiosity, and continuous learning.How values-based leadership builds stronger teams and cultures.Practical leadership lessons from decades of executive experience. Whether you're leading a business, managing a team, or developing your own leadership journey, this episode offers practical insights that will inspire you to lead with confidence, courage, and purpose. Learn more at: https://soniamcdonald.com Stay kind. Stay courageous. Follow Sonia on Socials:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/soniamcdonald/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesoniamcdonald/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/soniamcdonald01 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sonia_mcdonald #leadership #courageousleadership #authenticleadership #executiveleadership #leadershipdevelopment #leadershipmindset #humanleadership #resilientleadership #workplaceculture #emotionalintelligence #trust #leadershippodcast #futureofwork #growthmindset #teamleadership #keynotespeaker #motivationalspeaker #leadershipwithsonia #paulscurrah #soniamcdonald

    Episode 17: What Great Leadership Really Looks Like | Paul Scurrah on Courage

  5. 09/02/2024

    Episode 16: Stress as Your Superpower | How to Reframe Stress & Build Resilience with Sonia

    Stress does not have to hold you back. When understood and managed well, it can become one of your greatest strengths. In this empowering solo episode of Leadership with Sonia, Sonia McDonald explores how to reframe stress, overcome anxiety, and build the resilience needed to thrive in both leadership and everyday life. Drawing on her own experiences and practical leadership insights, Sonia explains why stress is a natural part of growth and how changing the way we think about it can transform challenges into opportunities. Rather than viewing stress as the enemy, she encourages listeners to see it as a signal for growth, learning, and positive action. Throughout the episode, Sonia shares simple yet powerful strategies for managing stress, improving emotional wellbeing, and developing a resilient mindset. From mindfulness and breathing techniques to self-compassion, gratitude, and building strong support networks, this conversation is filled with practical tools that you can apply immediately. Whether you're navigating workplace pressures, leading a team, or managing personal challenges, this episode will help you build resilience, improve your wellbeing, and lead with greater confidence and clarity. In this episode, you'll discover:How to reframe stress as a source of growth and motivation.Practical techniques to reduce stress and anxiety.The benefits of mindfulness, deep breathing, and meditation.Why a growth mindset helps you overcome setbacks.How resilience is built through daily habits and self-awareness.The importance of self-care, gratitude, and strong support networks.How to turn challenges into opportunities for personal and professional growth. Stress is part of life, but it doesn't have to control your life. With the right mindset and practical strategies, you can transform pressure into purpose and resilience into your greatest leadership advantage. Learn more at: https://soniamcdonald.com Stay kind. Stay courageous. Follow Sonia on Socials: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/soniamcdonald/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesoniamcdonald/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/soniamcdonald01 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sonia_mcdonald #leadership #stressmanagement #resilience #growthmindset #mentalwellbeing #selfleadership #emotionalintelligence #mindfulness #selfcare #personalgrowth #leadershipdevelopment #resilientleadership #workplacewellbeing #leadershippodcast #anxietymanagement #keynotespeaker #motivationalspeaker #leadershipwithsonia #soniamcdonald

    Episode 16: Stress as Your Superpower | How to Reframe Stress & Build Resilience with Sonia

  6. 08/26/2024

    Episode 15: Leading with Courage and Kindness | Jane Phipps on Authentic Leadership

    Leadership is not about having all the answers. It is about leading with courage, kindness, and authenticity while creating opportunities for others to thrive. In this inspiring episode of Leadership with Sonia, Sonia McDonald is joined by Jane Phipps, Chief Operating Officer of Teach For Australia, to explore how authentic leadership can transform people, teams, and communities. Jane shares her remarkable leadership journey, from beginning her career as a mathematician in the defense sector to becoming a leader dedicated to improving education and developing future leaders across Australia. Along the way, she reflects on the mentors and role models who shaped her leadership philosophy, both the positive examples that inspired her and the challenges that helped her grow. Together, Sonia and Jane discuss why courage, kindness, and authenticity are essential leadership qualities in today's world. They explore the importance of building trust, creating inclusive workplaces, and empowering others through coaching, mentorship, and meaningful leadership development. Jane also shares the incredible work of Teach For Australia, supporting passionate educators in low socioeconomic communities while helping develop the next generation of leaders. She speaks openly about personal growth, resilience, and the daily habits that help her lead with clarity and purpose, including journaling, reading, therapy, and prioritizing wellbeing. This episode is a powerful reminder that leadership is not about perfection. It is about showing up with integrity, leading with compassion, and helping others become the best version of themselves. In this episode, you'll discover:Why courage and kindness are powerful leadership strengths.How authentic leadership builds trust and stronger relationships.The importance of coaching, mentoring, and continuous learning.Leadership lessons from education and social impact.Practical habits that support resilience, wellbeing, and personal growth.How inclusive leadership creates lasting impact. Whether you're leading a team, working in education, or developing your own leadership journey, this conversation will inspire you to lead with purpose, courage, and authenticity. Learn more at: https://soniamcdonald.com Stay kind. Stay courageous. Follow Sonia on Socials: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/soniamcdonald/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesoniamcdonald/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/soniamcdonald01 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sonia_mcdonald #leadership #authenticleadership #kindleadership #courageousleadership #educationleadership #womeninleadership #leadershipdevelopment #leadershipmindset #inclusiveleadership #emotionalintelligence #mentorship #coaching #personalgrowth #resilientleadership #leadershippodcast #teachforaustralia #keynotespeaker #motivationalspeaker #leadershipwithsonia #soniamcdonald

    Episode 15: Leading with Courage and Kindness | Jane Phipps on Authentic Leadership

  7. 08/19/2024

    Episode 14: Boundaries, Trust and Neuroscience in Leadership | Leadership with Sonia

    Great leadership starts with trust, grows through self-awareness, and thrives when leaders create psychologically safe environments where people can perform at their best. In this insightful episode of Leadership with Sonia, Sonia McDonald is joined by Shannan Quain, a senior leader in the Australian Public Service, for an honest conversation about what leadership really looks like in today's complex workplaces. Drawing on her extensive leadership experience, Shannan shares valuable lessons on building trust, setting healthy boundaries, and leading with authenticity. She reflects on how feedback, vulnerability, and difficult conversations have shaped her leadership journey, while highlighting the importance of curiosity, empathy, and continuous learning. Together, Sonia and Shannan explore the fascinating role of neuroscience in leadership, explaining how fear, trust, motivation, and psychological safety influence the way people think, behave, and perform at work. They challenge traditional approaches to performance management and discuss how leaders can create environments where people feel safe, supported, and empowered to succeed. This conversation also explores why self-awareness, resilience, and personal wellbeing are essential leadership skills. Sonia and Shannan remind us that effective leadership begins with looking after ourselves, so we can better support and inspire those around us. In this episode, you'll discover:Why trust is the foundation of great leadership.How neuroscience helps leaders better understand behaviour.The importance of healthy boundaries in leadership.How psychological safety improves team performance.Why curiosity, empathy, and honest feedback create stronger leaders.Practical ways to lead with confidence, compassion, and authenticity. Whether you're leading a team, managing change, or developing your own leadership skills, this episode offers practical insights that will help you build stronger relationships and create lasting impact. Learn more at: https://soniamcdonald.com Stay kind. Stay courageous. Follow Sonia on Socials: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/soniamcdonald/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesoniamcdonald/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/soniamcdonald01 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sonia_mcdonald #leadership #neuroleadership #leadershipdevelopment #authenticleadership #humanleadership #psychologicalsafety #trust #workplaceculture #leadershipmindset #emotionalintelligence #resilientleadership #selfleadership #growthmindset #leadershippodcast #futureofwork #keynotespeaker #motivationalspeaker #leadershipwithsonia #shannanquain #soniamcdonald

    Episode 14: Boundaries, Trust and Neuroscience in Leadership | Leadership with Sonia

  8. 08/12/2024

    Episode 13: Lead with Love: Why Kindness, Courage, and Inclusion Matter in Leadership

    Leadership is not about titles or authority. It is about leading with love, courage, kindness, and a genuine commitment to making a positive difference. In this inspiring episode of Leadership with Sonia, Sonia McDonald reflects on what leadership truly means in today's rapidly changing world. Drawing on her personal journey building Leadership and working alongside leaders across industries, Sonia shares why kindness, courage, and inclusion are no longer optional, they are essential leadership strengths. Sonia speaks openly about the global challenges facing leaders today, the growing negativity surrounding leadership, and why people are searching for leaders who lead with authenticity, empathy, and purpose. She explains that leadership is not defined by a job title but by the choices we make, the values we live by, and the impact we have on those around us. Throughout the episode, Sonia explores the importance of leading with compassion, embracing diverse perspectives, and creating environments where people feel seen, valued, and empowered. She also reflects on the role of self-kindness, gratitude, and resilience, reminding us that the way we care for ourselves directly influences how we lead others. This episode is a powerful reminder that the future of leadership belongs to those who choose courage over fear, kindness over ego, and connection over control. In this episode, you'll discover:Why kindness is a powerful leadership strength.How courageous leadership builds trust and confidence.The importance of inclusion and diverse perspectives.Why self-kindness and gratitude make better leaders.How leading with purpose creates lasting impact. Whether you're leading a team, an organization, or simply striving to become the best version of yourself, this episode will inspire you to lead with heart, courage, and authenticity every day. Learn more at: https://soniamcdonald.com Stay kind. Stay courageous. Follow Sonia on Socials: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/soniamcdonald/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thesoniamcdonald/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/soniamcdonald01 TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@sonia_mcdonald #leadership #kindleadership #courageousleadership #inclusiveleadership #humanleadership #authenticleadership #leadershipdevelopment #leadershipmindset #emotionalintelligence #workplaceculture #growthmindset #selfleadership #compassion #gratitude #personalgrowth #leadershippodcast #keynotespeaker #motivationalspeaker #leadershipwithsonia #soniamcdonald

    Episode 13: Lead with Love: Why Kindness, Courage, and Inclusion Matter in Leadership
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About

Leadership isn't a title — it's how you show up. Welcome to Leadership with Sonia. Real conversations. Courageous leadership. I'm Sonia McDonald — CEO and Founder of LeadershipHQ, keynote speaker, executive coach, and author of First Comes Courage, Leadership Attitude and Just Rock It! For more than 35 years I've worked with leaders and teams across Australia and beyond, helping them lead with courage, kindness and impact. This show is where leadership gets real. No fluff. No jargon. No corporate speak. Just honest conversations about what it actually takes to lead — backed by neuroscience and decades of experience in the trenches. What you'll get every episode: 🎙️ Real talk on courageous leadership — including the conversations most leaders avoid 🧠 The brain science behind great leadership, explained simply 💛 Practical tools you can use the same day — at work, at home, in life 🔥 Stories from the front line of leadership — the wins, the failures and the lessons 🚀 Interviews with leaders who lead with heart and back themselves Whether you're a CEO, an emerging leader, or someone rebuilding your career from scratch (I've been there — 40 job rejections before I built my own company), this podcast is for you. Because the world needs great leadership — and it starts with you. New episodes weekly. Subscribe so you never miss one. Connect with Sonia: 🌐 Website: https://www.soniamcdonald.com.au 🏢 LeadershipHQ: https://www.leadershiphq.com.au 💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/soniamcdonald 📚 Books: First Comes Courage | Leadership Attitude | Just Rock It! ✉️ Newsletter: sign up at leadershiphq.com.au Work with Sonia: Keynote speaking | Executive coaching | Leadership programs | Courageous Conversations workshops #Leadership #CourageousLeadership #LeadershipDevelopment #ExecutiveCoaching #Neuroscience #WomenInLeadership #LeadershipPodcast

Information

  • Creator
    Sonia McDonald
  • Years Active
    2026
  • Episodes
    20
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright 2026 Sonia McDonald
  • Show Website
    Leadership with Sonia