SummaryAs Star Wars fans celebrate May the 4th, we’re kicking off season 4, reflecting on the stories that shape us.Star Wars was a big childhood influence that I’ve carried with me into my work and my leadership. Knowing ‘I’m no Jedi but I know the force’ is about saying that I don’t have all the answers, but I know these conversations matter. And along the way, I’ll have a few things to share with you that will help, support and encourage you.We’re looking at the shadow sides we all have, and that, like overusing our strengths, we can get tripped up if we’re not aware, but you don’t need to be a hero to be a great leaderI’m also exploring the deeper truth: fear-based tight control isn’t just ineffective in healthcare—it’s exhausting. Instead, connection, purpose and curiosity are powerful antidotes.If you’ve ever felt like you should know more as a leader, this episode is a permission slip to lead with curiosity and courage instead.LinksGrab your spot at one of two workshops - how do you want to feel at work?
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19:50
The one where I forgot it was Easter!
Wrapping up season 3 with planning ahead tips in a mini-mid-week episode because I completely forgot it was Easter.Links and Resources 5 qualities of high-impact healthcare leadersGet started, get simplified and organise your work lifeThe digital declutter you didn’t know you neededTwo things I know about getting things doneI don’t want to keep fighting fires What’s a topic you want the lounge to explore? Let me know here.
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6:04
Leading Through Scarcity: The Abundance Mindset Advantage
Healthcare is stretched, but your mindset is still a choice. This episode isn’t about pretending things aren’t tough—it’s about the power of noticing how you think, and choosing to lead with clarity and impact anyway. We explore the Abundance Mindset and how it supports stronger, more intentional leadership—even in stretched systems.Links and Resources 5 qualities of high-impact healthcare leadersGrateful In AprilGratitude FreebiesGratitude Practice when you have no timeAppreciative Feedback to Shift Your CultureThere will always be more: overcoming scarcity mindsetHabit Four: Think Win-WinWhen a sense of scarcity takes overMoving from scarcity to gratitude: your leadership choiceWhat’s a topic you want the lounge to explore, let me know here.
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17:00
Milestones & Meaning: Lessons from 50 Conversations on Leadership
Behind every episode of The Leadership Lounge is a deeper reason for showing up. Hitting the 50-episode mark felt like the right time to pause and reflect—not just on the podcast, but on the leadership journey itself. Every leadership journey starts somewhere—but what keeps it going? In this episode, I share three key reflections that have shaped both the podcast and my own leadership: getting clear on your why, showing up with persistence (especially on the tough days), and staying adaptable as things around you change.These aren’t just podcasting lessons—they’re leadership ones. I also revisit the foundation of what we talk about: supporting personal leadership growth, building strong and connected teams, and making healthcare work better through operational excellence. Whether you're leading in complexity, starting to find your feet, or recalibrating your role—this conversation is for you.Links and Resources 5 qualities of high-impact healthcare leadersGrit, purpose and hopeAsking for helpGetting started with reflectionHow to re-think managing upBuilding your professional networkWhat’s a topic you want the lounge to explore, let me know here.
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24:02
#49 Collaboration & Cooperation in Healthcare: Knowing the Difference and Making an Impact
Every day, healthcare teams work together—but are they cooperating or collaborating? And does it matter? In this episode, we explore the key differences, when to use each approach, and why shared purpose is the glue that makes both work. Breaking down silos and strengthening connections between leaders and teams is critical to delivering better patient outcomes and creating healthier workplace cultures. Whether you're a new charge nurse leading a team or a seasoned leader looking to foster deeper collaboration, this conversation will give you practical insights to build trust, alignment, and impact.Links and Resources Download your guide to finding your team’s purpose5 qualities of high-impact healthcare leadersThe difference between collaboration and cooperation The difference between collaboration and cooperation (yes the same title but it’s a different link) Cooperation, coordination and collaborationThe power of teamwork and collaboration What’s a topic you want the lounge to explore, let me know here.
The leadership lounge is those who lead and work in healthcare. A place to pause, think and reset. Providing you with a fresh take on your work as a healthcare leader, leaving you feeling refreshed, inspired and able to keep going.
New Zealand