Welcome to the 100th and final episode of the Knowing Self, Knowing Others Podcast! I'm your host, Nia Thomas, and today we’re marking this milestone in self-aware leadership by welcoming a true expert in the field—Dr. Julia Carden. Julia is the founder of Carden Consulting, an executive coach, supervisor, and educator whose work is grounded in her PhD research on self-awareness. With a career that began as a Royal Naval Officer and evolved through HR and leadership development before she launched her own consultancy, Julia brings a wealth of real-world insights to our conversation.

In this episode, we explore the meaning of self-awareness, pulling apart its complex, ever-evolving nature and exploring the differences between self-awareness, self-knowledge, and self-consciousness. Julia shares fascinating findings from her doctoral research, including why self-awareness is difficult to define, how it develops in leaders and executive coaches, and the importance of reflection and curiosity on this lifelong journey. We also discuss her forthcoming book, "You Are Not as Self Aware as You Think You Are," which is packed with practical steps for leaders wanting to grow their self-awareness muscle.

Join us as we reflect on three years of conversations about self-aware leadership, celebrate all that we’ve learned, and look ahead to the future of leadership practice. Whether you’re a seasoned leader or just starting out, this episode will leave you inspired to keep exploring the depths of self-awareness, for the benefit of yourself and those you lead.

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Welcome to The Knowing Self Knowing Others Podcast, where we explore the art and impact of self-aware leadership. In this episode, host Nia Thomas sits down with Ruth Wells, the CEO of Headway Devon—a leader who truly embodies leading with both head and heart. Ruth’s approach to leadership centers on kindness, authenticity, and the courage to balance accountability with empathy. Together, they explore why kindness is an underrated leadership skill, how to let organizational values live beyond the poster on the wall, and the power of vulnerability and observation in supporting a thriving team.

Ruth shares candidly about her journey, touching on the challenges and rewards of creating a culture where people are supported as individuals, seen for their humanity, and encouraged to grow—even when times are tough. If you’re looking for honest insights on compassionate leadership, practical ways to build self-awareness in yourself and your team, and the importance of learning from feedback, this conversation will inspire you to lead with intention and care.

Tune in for an episode packed with reflections, practical advice, and heartfelt stories about what it really means to make a difference as a leader.

Find out more about Headway Devon here: LINK

Connect with Ruth on LinkedIn here: LINK

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Welcome to the Knowing Self, Knowing Others Podcast! In this episode, host Nia Thomas sits down with Neil Woodbridge, the dynamic CEO of Thurrock Lifestyle Solutions (TLS). Neil’s story is one of inspiring social leadership: from growing TLS into a thriving, multi-million-pound organization supporting over 200 disabled people, to pioneering an “experts by experience” model where those with lived experience co-lead and shape services. Neil talks about his unique approach to inclusive leadership, the importance of humility and self-awareness, and why balancing energy with well-being matters—both for himself and his team.

Throughout the episode, Neil shares his journey towards impactful, self-aware leadership, drawing on lessons from his early days working in retail, his lived experience with ADHD, and the bold decisions that have shaped TLS’s culture. You’ll hear practical strategies for embedding co-production, managing burnout, and fostering positive, strengths-based environments—plus how embracing failure and rapid learning can drive innovation. Whether you’re a leader, a changemaker, or simply passionate about creating more inclusive communities, you won’t want to miss Neil’s honest insights and actionable wisdom.

Get ready for an engaging and thought-provoking conversation, packed with the kind of real-world advice you can take back to your own organization or leadership journey!

Find out ore about TLS here: LINK

Listen to Thurrock Community Business Radio here: LINK

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In this episode, host Nia Thomas is joined by Ruth Hallett, an expert in turning bold ideas into reality with over 25 years of experience leading transformative change across the commercial and public sectors. Ruth’s career spans roles at KPMG, Virgin Atlantic, Barclays, Marks & Spencer, the NHS, local authorities, charities, and more, making her uniquely qualified to blend academic rigor and technical expertise with a deeply people-centered approach.

Together, Nia and Ruth explore the importance of self-awareness in leadership, exploring how reflective practice, emotional intelligence, and adaptability are essential for successful teams and impactful change. Ruth shares powerful insights from her own journey, including pivotal moments of self-discovery, the value of external coaching, and how to foster psychological safety and trust within teams, even when facing challenging or stalled projects.

If you’re a leader or aspiring changemaker seeking practical tips on building strong, resilient teams and leading with authenticity, this conversation is filled with actionable advice, real-world examples, and inspiring stories. Plus, you’ll hear about creative facilitation methods like LEGO Serious Play and strategies for maintaining well-being amid the demands of modern work.

Tune in to discover how self-aware leadership can drive better outcomes for people, projects, and organizations!

Connect with Ruth here: LINK

Check our Ruth's website here: LINK

Access free resources from Jo Hall here: LINK

Connect with Virginie Frezel for coaching: LINK

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Welcome to another episode of The Knowing Self Knowing Others Podcast, where we dive into self-aware leadership with inspiring thinkers from around the world. In today's conversation, hosts Nia Thomas and sits down with Dr. Craig Dearden Phillips MBE—social entrepreneur, author, and leadership expert celebrated for his commitment to purpose-driven leadership and empowering others.

Craig shares his journey from working as a care worker to founding impactful organisations and chairing major boards. He opens up about the powerful lessons learned in those early days, the role of self-awareness and situational awareness in effective leadership, and the importance of showing up authentically in challenging times. Together, they explore the nuances of boardroom dynamics, giving and receiving feedback, and navigating change in the nonprofit sector.

You’ll also hear Craig’s honest take on the differences between political and organizational leadership, why openness and candor are essential during times of uncertainty, and his rallying call for leaders: don’t hide, especially when things get tough. Whether you’re leading a charity, social enterprise, or any organization facing change, this episode is stacked with practical wisdom for modern leadership.

Ready to explore the real impact of knowing yourself and others in today’s leadership landscape? Let’s get started.

Find Craig on LinkedIn

Find out more about Social Club

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In this episode, host Nia Thomas sits down with Richard Reid, executive coach, psychotherapist, and founder of Pinnacle Wellbeing Services, to dive deep into the power of self-awareness in leadership. With a background working alongside high-profile business leaders, entrepreneurs, and even European royalty, Richard shares his unique journey from IT consultant to leadership expert, highlighting why self-awareness is foundational to meaningful change.

Together, Nia and Richard explore practical strategies leaders can use to create space for reflection, navigate stress, and avoid simply running on autopilot—especially in today’s fast-paced, virtual world. The conversation covers the true meaning of charisma, the importance of intentional communication, and the courage it takes to embrace vulnerability and even being disliked. Plus, Richard offers thoughtful insights into managing personal branding, storytelling in leadership, and actionable steps for developing authentic connections.

If you’re eager to unlock your own leadership potential and foster more genuine, impactful relationships at work, this episode is packed with practical wisdom and relatable stories you won’t want to miss.

Access Richard's website here

Buy Richard's book 'Charisma Unlocked' here

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Welcome to The Knowing Self Knowing Others Podcast! In today’s episode, host Nia Thomas sits down with the fascinating Ravinder Taylor—a specialist in the power of the subconscious mind. Born in India, raised in England, and now living in Washington, Ravinder has navigated life through diverse cultural perspectives and began her career as a hard scientist, studying microbiology in Wales. However, a chance encounter with a hospital-hosted hypnosis demonstration sparked her passion for understanding the mind’s hidden depths.

Ravinder shares her remarkable journey from science into hypnotherapy and psychotherapy, including personal experiences that revealed just how much our subconscious shapes our present—often without us realizing it. Together, Nia and Ravinder explore how subconscious programming affects everything from personal choices to workplace dynamics, the real science behind hypnosis, the surprising power of the placebo effect, and how subtle micro-behaviors can impact our relationships at work and beyond.

Packed with practical tips and grounded in science, this conversation is all about self-awareness: what it means to truly understand ourselves, break free from old patterns, and empower our conscious choices—at work, in our health, and in our everyday lives. Whether you’re interested in the tools of hypnotherapy or how to foster self-belief and positivity, you’ll take away a wealth of insights and actionable advice from this episode.

Tune in and join us on a journey through the subconscious for a new perspective on self-aware leadership and empowerment!

Buy Ravinder's Book: Mind Training here

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Welcome to The Knowing Self Knowing Others Podcast with your host, Nia Thomas. In today's episode, we're thrilled to be joined by Jean Larkin, an expert in leadership development and employee engagement, and cofounder of Octopy.

Jean Larkin, originally from the United States, has spent the past decade in Europe exploring the intricacies of leadership and management. Her career began with a diverse array of experiences, where she observed many well-meaning individuals struggling to make a meaningful impact as leaders, often resorting to replicating ineffective management techniques. Driven by intense curiosity, Jean embarked on an in-depth exploration of leadership strategies, seeking more effective approaches. This quest led her to meet Matt, and together they envisioned a new path for impactful leadership, ultimately co-founding Octopy, a venture aimed at revolutionizing management practices.

Jean shares her experiences navigating the complexities of today's competitive job market and how she helps leaders foster human-focused workplaces where engagement flourishes and growth is sustainable. Tune in as Jean delves into her own career journey, her transition from The US to Europe, and her innovative approach to leadership that emphasizes curiosity, self-awareness, and collaborative development. Whether you're a leader struggling with engagement strategies or a curious learner, Jean's insights promise to create more fulfilled and effective teams in the modern workforce. Join us as we explore how self-awareness and a human-centered approach can transform leadership styles and work environments.

Check out Octopy here

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