Julia Unlocks Career Satisfaction Through Core Values The Secrets Of Learning & Development podcast

8:18

If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you! What if confidence isn’t the real issue? In this bonus episode of The Secrets of Learning and Development , Valerie Merrill interviews Executive Career Transition Coach Julia Bend to unpack a common career assumption: “I just need more confidence.” But is that really what’s holding people back? Julia shares practical insights from coaching professionals in transition revealing how what looks like a confidence issue is often something deeper: lack of clarity, misalignment with values or simply being in the wrong environment. Expect real examples, powerful questions to ask yourself, and a refreshing take on how to move forward when doubt creeps in. Whether you’re questioning your next step or supporting others through change, this conversation might just reframe the way you think about confidence.…

The Secrets of Learning & Development

1
From Career Crossroads to Purposeful Work: Holly Worton on Reinventing Yourself with Confidence 30:07

11 days ago30:07

30:07

If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you! S3: In this episode, we meet the multifaceted Holly Worton – coach, author, shamanic practitioner and founder of North Downs Publishing. From quitting graduate school to running an eco hotel in Mexico, and later building a thriving publishing business in the UK, Holly shares the defining moments that shaped her unconventional career. She opens up about the mindset challenges she’s faced, particularly around self-worth, and the powerful tools she uses – like journaling and PSYCH-K – to navigate them. We explore the intersection of coaching, publishing and energy work, the misunderstood value of multidisciplinary careers, and how dynamic alignment can unlock a life of ease and flow. A must-listen for anyone contemplating change, feeling creatively stuck, or thinking about writing a book Key Learnings You don’t have to choose just one path Holly’s journey shows that a successful career can be built by weaving together different passions and disciplines. Whether it’s coaching, publishing or shamanic work, her experience proves that combining varied interests can create a richer, more aligned professional life. Mindset blocks evolve but don’t disappear One of Holly’s biggest insights is that limiting beliefs, like “I’m not good enough,” can resurface in different forms throughout life. The key is recognising them early and using practical tools, such as PSYCH-K and journaling, to shift those beliefs and keep moving forward. Guest Information: https://hollyworton.com/ http://northdownspublishing.com/ https://www.goodreads.com/hollyworton http://viewauthor.at/HEW https://instagram.com/hollyworton/…

The Secrets of Learning & Development

1
L&D in 2025: Personalised, Inclusive and Always Evolving 6:53

18 days ago6:53

6:53

If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you! In this bonus episode of The Secrets of Learning and Development , Valerie takes the lead as she and Julia explore the trends shaping L&D in 2025. From the rise of personalised learning and microlearning to the growing emphasis on inclusivity and accessibility, Valerie shares timely insights and practical examples that reflect a rapidly changing environment. They also introduce the term “Learnership” and discuss how technology is changing the way we learn. If you’re keen to understand where L&D is heading and how to stay ahead, this episode is packed with value.…

The Secrets of Learning & Development

1
The Mindset Shift You Need to Succeed: Lessons from Sarah Pittendrigh 33:02

26 days ago33:02

33:02

If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you! S3 E1: What does it take to rise from financial devastation and build a thriving business? In this episode of The Secrets of Learning and Development, we welcome Sarah Pittendrigh award-winning entrepreneur, investor, mentor, and author of The ICAN Method. Sarah’s story is a testament to resilience. After facing bankruptcy and losing everything, she rebuilt her life and went on to create multiple successful businesses, including a seven-figure empire. Through her ICAN Method, she has helped countless founders break free from limitations and create businesses that align with their values and lifestyle. In this candid conversation, Sarah shares the real cost of success, why mindset is everything, and how she challenges the glossy ‘seven-figure dream’ narrative. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a leader, or navigating career challenges, this episode is packed with hard-won insights and practical strategies for building success on your terms. Key Learnings Reframing Your Mindset is the First Step to Overcoming Adversity Sarah’s story highlights that before taking action, you must reframe how you see your situation, only then can you unlock opportunities and move forward with clarity and confidence. Success Isn’t Just About Revenue It’s About Alignment and Purpose Sarah challenges the idea that every business needs to chase seven-figure success. She explains that scaling a business comes with trade-offs, and what truly matters is building something that aligns with your values and desired lifestyle. Guest Information: https://sarahpittendrigh.com/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarahpittendrigh sarah@sarahpittendrigh.com…

The Secrets of Learning & Development

1
Season 3 of The Secrets of Learning and Development has arrived! 7:51

30 days ago7:51

7:51

If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you! This season hosts Valerie Merrill and Julia Bend, bring you fresh, thought-provoking conversations with the people shaping how we learn, lead and grow at work. From bold career moves to innovative approaches to leadership and development, each episode offers honest reflections, practical takeaways and new ways of thinking about success in a changing world. Expect curious questions, unexpected insights and conversations that go beyond the usual soundbites. Subscribe now and discover the ideas, challenges and real-life stories that could shift your perspective and your next step.…

The Secrets of Learning & Development

1
Dynamic Alignment: Find Clarity, Energy & Purpose with Brad Borkan & Holly Worton 33:39

6 weeks ago33:39

33:39

If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you! S2 E:13 In this insightful episode of Secrets of Learning and Development, Julia and Valerie are joined by authors Brad Borkan and Holly Worton to discuss their collaborative book, Dynamic Alignment. Together, they unpack the eight-step process designed to help you uncover your passions, align with your true values and create a fulfilling, purpose-driven life. Listen as Brad and Holly share how their contrasting backgrounds, corporate decision making and personal growth, led to a uniquely blended approach to finding clarity and motivation. They reveal the story behind the book’s title, the challenges of co-authoring and the concept of a "unique interest set" that invites you to reflect on what energises you. Whether you’re feeling stuck, curious about personal development or looking for a fresh perspective on goal-setting and alignment, this episode is packed with inspiration and practical insights to help you begin your own journey. Tune in now to hear how Dynamic Alignment can help you shift from feeling out of sync to confidently embracing your own path. Key Learnings Discover Your Unique Interest Set: Brad and Holly introduce the concept of a "Unique Interest Set," which encourages you to combine a few key interests that truly energise you, creating a clear, authentic direction for your life and work. Embrace Flexibility in Alignment: Dynamic Alignment isn’t about rigid goals, but about creating a personal, adaptable approach to growth and purpose that can evolve with you over time.…

The Secrets of Learning & Development

1
Global Mindsets Unlocked: Viktoria Kish on Leading Across Cultures 28:09

7 weeks ago28:09

28:09

If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you! S2:E12 In this episode of Secrets of Learning and Development, hosts Valerie and Julia are joined by Viktoria Kish, a global business consultant, entrepreneur, and connector with over 25 years of experience in international business education and leadership. Viktoria shares her remarkable journey from founding her first company in the Czech Republic in 1999 to guiding CEOs and founders across the globe in navigating new markets and cultural landscapes. Viktoria reflects on leaders' challenges and misconceptions when expanding into international markets, emphasising the importance of cultural adaptation, understanding local regulations, and preparing employees for global assignments. Drawing on her extensive experience, she highlights key lessons in leadership, including the value of trust, collaboration, and authenticity in building successful teams. Throughout the episode, Viktoria discusses her innovative approach to designing experiential learning programmes, from tailoring corporate trips to fostering meaningful connections between diverse business leaders. She offers insights into adapting business models during the pandemic and the power of connecting people to achieve mutual goals. Tune in for an insightful conversation packed with practical strategies, leadership lessons, and a deep understanding of global business dynamics, delivered with Viktoria’s warmth, wisdom, and a touch of humour. Key Takeaways Cultural Adaptation is Key: Viktoria emphasises that assuming a business model that works in one country will succeed in another is a critical mistake. Leaders must deeply understand local cultures, market behaviours, and expectations to achieve sustainable success in international markets. The Power of Authentic Leadership: Viktoria highlights the importance of authenticity in leadership, including acknowledging personal strengths and weaknesses. Building trust, fostering collaboration, and leveraging diverse perspectives are essential for creating effective and resilient teams. Guest Information: kish@studyprograms.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/viktoriakish/ http://www.theglobalexec.com/ http://www.studyprograms.com/…

The Secrets of Learning & Development

1
Beyond the Numbers: Douglas Lines on Building Trust and Inspiring Innovation 34:25

8 weeks ago34:25

34:25

If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you! S2:E11 - In this episode of The Secrets of Learning and Development , hosts Julia and Valerie sit down with Douglas Lines, a seasoned chartered accountant and co-founder of IBEM Group, who has led transformative change across multiple continents and industries. With a career that spans corporate banking, cultural transformations, and entrepreneurial leadership, Doug shares his journey from traditional finance to becoming a champion of collaboration and innovation in complex organisations. Doug discusses his insights on effective team collaboration, the importance of deep listening, and how he navigated challenges like the 2008 financial crisis by fostering trust and shared purpose. He explores the critical difference between transformation and true innovation, sharing practical frameworks from his co-authored book, How to Create Innovation , which provides tools to guide organisations from ideation to commercialisation. In addition to sharing his expertise, Doug introduces his latest programme on entrepreneurial leadership, aimed at empowering leaders to adapt to today’s unpredictable world. He shares his unique philosophy of “lighting a flame in someone’s heart,” demonstrating how purpose-driven leadership and a collaborative mindset can lead to lasting organisational impact. Tune in to this inspiring episode to learn from Doug’s wealth of experience and gain actionable insights on leading with empathy, fostering innovation, and creating a collaborative culture in any industry. Key Learnings The Power of Collaboration in Challenging Times : Doug’s experience leading through the 2008 financial crisis highlights how collaboration and trust can be pivotal, not only internally but also with clients. He emphasises that collective strength and aligned purpose are essential to weather difficult periods, reinforcing that true leadership is about supporting one another through tough times, not just celebrating wins. Differentiating Transformation from Innovation : Doug discusses the critical difference between transformation and genuine innovation, a distinction often misunderstood. Transformation might improve or streamline existing processes, but innovation is about creating entirely new revenue streams, customer segments, or services. Doug’s approach encourages leaders to think beyond surface changes and build a mindset geared towards long-term, impactful innovation. Guest Information: https://www.linkedin.com/in/douglaslines/ douglaslines@outlook.com https://ib-em.com/…

The Secrets of Learning & Development

1
Julia Bend: Why Boundaries Aren’t Harsh – They’re Essential 7:07

9 weeks ago7:07

7:07

If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you! In this bonus episode of The Secrets of Learning and Development , the spotlight turns to our co-host Julia Bend as she unpacks the power of boundaries in leadership, coaching and life. Together with Valerie Merrill, she explores why boundaries are so often misunderstood, and how setting them with intention can boost resilience, prevent burnout and create healthier relationships — both at work and at home. Expect honest reflections, light touches of humour and practical insights for anyone who’s ever struggled to say no. Whether you're a leader, a coach or just feeling stretched too thin, this conversation might be exactly what you didn’t know you needed.…

The Secrets of Learning & Development

1
Redefining Inclusion and Creativity: Allegra Chapman’s Journey to Empowerment 36:25

10 weeks ago36:25

36:25

If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you! S2:E10 In this episode of Secrets of Learning and Development, hosts Julia and Valerie are joined by Allegra Chapman, co-founder of Watch This Sp_ce, a consultancy dedicated to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion in workplaces. Allegra shares her inspiring and non-linear career journey, beginning in the charity sector, moving through publishing and communications, and ultimately co-founding her own business. Allegra reflects on pivotal moments in her life, including discovering her neurodivergence and navigating the challenges of being a working mother, which shaped her approach to leadership and inclusion. She highlights the importance of creating workplaces that celebrate diverse thinking and support neurodivergent individuals, emphasising the value of universal design for thriving teams. Allegra also discusses the measurable impact of her consultancy’s work, sharing powerful examples of transformation within organisations. Additionally, Allegra explores the role of creativity as a tool for self-care and wellbeing, offering practical advice for reconnecting with creative instincts. She introduces her book Creativity Is Your Self-Care, which features 52 exercises to inspire emotional wellbeing, and discusses how creativity benefits teams by enhancing problem-solving, communication, and innovation. Tune in for an enlightening conversation filled with actionable insights, powerful personal stories, and strategies to create inclusive and innovative workplaces, delivered with Allegra’s passion and authenticity. Key Takeaways Embracing Neurodiversity and Authenticity in Leadership Allegra highlights the importance of recognising and celebrating diverse ways of thinking and working in the workplace. She emphasises that creating inclusive environments through universal design benefits all employees, not just those who are neurodivergent. Organisations can enhance communication, innovation, and collaboration by understanding and leveraging individual strengths. The Role of Creativity in Wellbeing and Workplace Success Allegra passionately advocates for creativity as a tool for emotional and mental wellbeing. She encourages individuals to reconnect with their natural creativity, offering practical advice for overcoming societal conditioning that suppresses artistic expression. She also underscores how creativity can improve problem-solving, communication, and team cohesion, making it an invaluable asset for personal growth and business success. Guest Information: https://www.linkedin.com/in/allegrachapman/ https://www.watchthisspace.uk/ https://gathertogether.substack.com/…

The Secrets of Learning & Development

1
Curiosity in Practice: Coaching Meets Training 5:04

11 weeks ago5:04

5:04

If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you! In this episode of Secrets of Learning and Development , Julia and Valerie take a closer look at Curiosity, what it means, how it shows up in their work and why it matters more than ever. While they approach it from different angles, Julia through coaching and Valerie through IT training, they uncover how curiosity fuels deeper engagement, creative thinking and real change. They explore: How curiosity shows up in client conversations and learner behaviour The balance between structure and spontaneity in learning environments What it takes to create the right conditions for curiosity to flourish Why curiosity is more than a personality trait, it’s a professional strength Whether you're a leader, coach or trainer, this conversation will prompt you to consider how you encourage curiosity in yourself and others.…

The Secrets of Learning & Development

1
From Saving Lives to Leading Teams: Ashley Brice on Mastering High-Stakes Communication 46:04

12 weeks ago46:04

46:04

If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you! S2:E9 In this episode of Secrets of Learning and Development, hosts Valerie and Julia are joined by Ashley Brice, a former military police officer, police negotiator, and now a highly sought-after communication and leadership expert. Ashley’s journey spans from handling covert police operations and life-or-death hostage negotiations to transforming businesses with his innovative approaches to communication. Ashley reflects on his progression from building trust in high-pressure situations to teaching negotiation mastery in the business world. He shares key moments in his career, including his transition to becoming a national instructor for UK police negotiators and his personal mission to turn life’s adversities into a force for good. Ashley discusses the principles behind his company, Polaris Resolutions, where he simplifies complex negotiation methods to empower business leaders to thrive under pressure. Throughout the episode, Ashley provides invaluable insights into effective listening, emotional intelligence, and building authentic connections. He offers actionable techniques for improving communication, avoiding escalation, and developing meaningful relationships in any context. With a unique perspective shaped by his military and police experience, Ashley explains how these skills translate seamlessly into improving business outcomes. Tune in for a fascinating and heartfelt conversation packed with practical strategies, powerful anecdotes, and Ashley’s unwavering dedication to helping others succeed in even the most challenging circumstances. Key Takeaways The Power of Active Listening and Emotional Intelligence Ashley emphasised the importance of truly listening to understand rather than listening to respond. He highlighted techniques such as emotional labeling, mirroring, and using effective silences to build trust quickly in high-pressure situations. These skills, honed during life-or-death negotiations, are equally transformative in business for fostering stronger connections and resolving conflicts. Turning Adversity into Strength Ashley shared how personal and professional challenges, including overcoming a tragic accident, shaped his mission to help others. His dedication to saving lives and teaching negotiation mastery underscores the value of resilience and using one’s experiences to empower others to succeed, whether in crisis management or professional growth. Guest Information: https://www.linkedin.com/in/ashley-brice-32a60010b/ ashley@polarisresolutions.com Polaris Resolutions Ltd: Posts | LinkedIn www.polarisresolutions.com (website live as of May 2025)…

The Secrets of Learning & Development

1
Is Your Story Landing? Why Perception Shapes Opportunity 6:43

13 weeks ago6:43

6:43

If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you! In this reflective bonus episode of The Secrets of Learning and Development , Valerie Merrill is joined by co-host and executive career transition coach Julia Bend to unpack the real impact of perception during times of change. It’s not just about your experience, it’s about how others interpret it. Julia shares practical insights on spotting blind spots, reframing your narrative and making sure your CV, LinkedIn profile and interview presence reflect where you're going, not just where you’ve been. If you’re navigating a transition or considering your next step, this episode will help you take control of how your story lands. A useful listen for anyone in transition or supporting someone who is.…

The Secrets of Learning & Development

1
Mastering Workplace Harmony: Proactive Conflict Resolution with Nicole Posner 32:24

14 weeks ago32:24

32:24

If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you! S2:E8 In this episode of Secrets of Learning and Development, hosts Julia and Valerie welcome Nicole Posner, an expert mediator and executive conflict coach. With a background in PR and psychology, Nicole shares how her early experiences in a toxic work environment inspired her to specialise in workplace conflict resolution and leadership coaching. Nicole discusses the importance of proactive communication, the role of listening in preventing misunderstandings, and the unseen factors that drive conflict. Drawing on years of experience, she introduces her Co-Founder Alignment Programme, a structured approach to helping business leaders and founders navigate tensions and foster collaboration before issues escalate. Through her blend of mediation, coaching, and conflict archetype analysis, Nicole offers practical tools to help leaders address challenges, build stronger workplace relationships, and create healthier organisational cultures. Whether you're a leader, a founder, or a professional navigating workplace dynamics, Nicole’s insights provide actionable strategies for meaningful change. Key Takeaways The Power of Active Listening and Acknowledgment in Resolving Conflict One of the most critical skills in conflict resolution is genuine listening. Nicole emphasises that many people hear but do not truly listen. Active listening involves acknowledging the other person’s perspective, avoiding dismissive phrases like "yes, but," and demonstrating understanding before responding. This approach not only diffuses tension but also fosters clearer communication and stronger relationships in the workplace. The Importance of Proactive Conflict Prevention in Leadership and Partnerships Nicole highlights the need for leaders and founders to anticipate potential sources of conflict rather than reacting to issues once they arise. She introduces strategies such as having "what if" conversations, aligning values and goals early on, and fostering a culture of open communication. Proactive conflict prevention, such as through her Co-Founder Alignment Programme, helps build resilient and cohesive teams, reducing the risk of escalations that could damage relationships or businesses. Guest Information: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nicoleposner-conflict/ https://www.nicoleposner.com/ nicole@posner.london For her Book: https://amzn.eu/d/jcxMRK7…

The Secrets of Learning & Development

1
Bonus Episode: Bespoke Training – Why It’s More Than Just ‘How-To’ 6:13

14 weeks ago6:13