Welcome to our podcast
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Leadership isn’t all lollipops and rainbows and in this podcast we cover how you f*cked things up as well as get things right so please come prepared to share the good, the bad and the ugly side of being a leader.
LATEST EPISODE
EPISODE 23: Utilising Play to Boost Creativity in Leadership with Dr. Veronique Richard
In this episode of the Braver Leader’s podcast, host Sam Harvey is joined by the amazing Dr Veronique Richard to explore the transformative power of play in leadership.
After all, play isn’t just for kids. It can be a valuable tool for connection and growth… when utilised right.
Tune in to discover how embracing curiously, experimentation, and even a little silliness will boost creativity, drive innovation, and encourage your team to think differently. You’ll learn:
Why every team needs time and space to play
How playful leadership is essential for problem solving and psychological safety
Simple ways to bring play into meetings, brainstorming, and daily workflows
Whether you’re leading a team, managing change, or trying to spark new ideas, this episode will challenge you to lead with more lightness, courage, and creativity.
EPISODE 22: How to Know if You’re Burned Out, and What to Do About It
Burnout is everywhere, but do we even know what it really is anymore? In this episode, Katie Maycock and Sam Harvey dive deep into the evolving nature of burnout, why middle and upper management are feeling it the most, and whether employees are actually experiencing burnout—or just completely disengaged from their work.
How stress is misdiagnosed (and why it matters)
The real impact of stress on your body, from gut health to decision-making
The silent warning signs that leaders miss
How systemic burnout is shaping the modern workforce
This one’s raw, real, and unfiltered—because tackling burnout requires more than just a mindfulness app and a day off.
How to know if you're burned out, and what to do about it.
EPISODE 21: Leading through healing : Trauma-informed leadership
In this episode of the Braver Leaders Podcast, we’re joined by Louise Marra — leadership coach, facilitator, and expert in trauma-informed leadership. Louise shares how trauma shapes workplace dynamics and how leaders can create safer, more connected environments.
From recognizing signs of trauma to avoiding common pitfalls when implementing supportive practices, Louise offers practical insights and powerful stories that reveal the impact of leading with emotional intelligence and care.
We also explore how leaders can care for their own well-being while holding space for their teams.
If you're ready to lead with more humanity, this conversation will inspire and equip you.
EPISODE 20: OWning your story: The corporate coming out with martin caine
In this powerful episode, Sam Harvey sits down with Martin Caine for an honest conversation about the complexities of coming out in the corporate world. Martin reflects on his own journey to authenticity—how hiding parts of himself impacted his leadership, and how embracing vulnerability ultimately unlocked deeper trust and connection at work. Together, they unpack the emotional weight of "corporate coming out," the fear of judgment, and the courage it takes to show up as your whole self.
Whether you're navigating your own identity or leading others through theirs, this episode is a timely reminder that leadership starts with truth—and the most impactful change often begins with a personal story.
EPISODE 19: Learning & Development Programs that Create IMPACT! with Lynne mcgarvey
In this energetic episode, Lynne McGarvey (Head of HR at Warehouse Gym UAE) joins Sam Harvey to share her journey from hospitality to HR and her fresh take on learning & development that actually works.
Why self-directed learning is the future
How to design engaging & relevant L&D programs
Measuring success beyond attendance—real impact & behaviour change
Leadership as a trait, not just a title
Navigating five generations in the workplace with cultural & emotional intelligence
Lynne drops a powerful truth: "You can’t change others—you can only adapt." Tune in for practical strategies to build a learning culture that drives real growth.
EPISODE 18: PARADOXICAL LEADERSHIP : HOW TO LEAD AMID COMPETING DEMANDS
Leadership is full of contradictions. Should you push for action or hold space? Make bold decisions or embrace uncertainty? Focus on short-term wins or long-term vision? The answer isn’t either-or—it’s both.
In this episode, Dr. John Cairney joins Sam Harvey to explore the paradoxical nature of leadership, the power of holding tension, and why the best leaders resist the urge to "fix" everything immediately.
Why great leaders thrive in the grey area
How "both-and" thinking leads to smarter decisions
The difference between management, influence & leadership
Why stepping back often leads to greater impact
Paradoxical leadership isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about navigating uncertainty with confidence. If you’re leading in complex environments (which, let’s be honest, is everywhere in 2025), this one’s a must-listen.