Lead with Less – Details, episodes & analysis

In this episode, I sit down with Jeremy Dean and talk about the power of emotional leadership. 

Jeremy is the Founder and Master Gamemaker at Riders & Elephants. R&E makes simple, human-focused tools that reimagine the way people and organisations connect and grow. 

As a Gamemaker, Jeremy takes complex concepts and simplifies them into beautifully simple card-based games and tools. All R&E games unlock emotion-led conversations. Their games give people the words people need to shift work cultures, change the experiences for customers and articulate what wellbeing means personally. 

In 2018, after four years of development, R&E successfully launched The Emotional Culture Deck. The ECD is a card-based tool used in 60+ countries by over 500,000 people worldwide.  Organisations including IBM, Netflix, IAG, Canva, Airbnb, United Nations, Toyota and PWC use R&E games. But with all that being said. His main focus is on his young family – Jeremy and his wife Becky have three kids under three – it's beautiful, loving chaos!

Jeremy and I dive into practical strategies for integrating emotional understanding into leadership practices, ensuring that leaders can effectively influence their teams not just through what they do, but how they make their teams feel. 

Here’s what you’ll learn: 

- Understand the science behind emotional contagion and how your own emotions can significantly impact your team’s morale and productivity.

- Learn how to identify the emotions that drive high performance within your team and how to cultivate these emotions intentionally.

- Discover techniques for handling "undesired" emotions in the workplace, helping you and your team navigate challenges more effectively.

- How to create an emotional strategy that aligns with your leadership goals, enhancing your ability to lead with empathy.

- The concept of "strategic emotions" and how to balance authenticity with the need to influence your team positively.

This episode is packed with actionable advice on setting emotional intentions and using emotions strategically to lead with compassion and effectiveness.

I’d love to hear about how emotional leadership is playing a role in your professional journey. Please reach out to me on  Instagram or LinkedIn and let me know! 

If you know someone who would benefit from listening to this episode, please pass it on.

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Links and Resources Mentioned:

FREE Workload Audit: A practical guide for managers to streamline their workload and maximise impact so you focus on what REALLY matters

VIP Leaders Program – Next round starts soon. Join a community of driven leaders who are committed to building habits that inspire and motivate those they lead.

Permission to Feel Dr Mark Brackett (Book)

Emotional Leadership Course by riders&elephants - Find all the information here.

The ECD card deck - Use code TASHPIETERSE for 10% OFF.

Are we connected? If not, connect here:

Website: tashpieterse.com

Instagram: @tash_pieterse

LinkedIn: tashpieterse

Are you enjoying the Lead With Less podcast?

You can leave a review on Apple or Spotify, or submit a question in the Q&A section on Spotify and we’ll get back to you! 

In this episode, I explore the top leadership trends and skills for 2025.  I talk about what’s IN this year to stay ahead in your industry. 

This episode is perfect for anyone leading a team because it explores new and important ways to be a great leader in 2025. 

You'll learn how to use different skills and ideas to make your team stronger and more creative. It's all about staying ahead and making sure you're ready for the future of work.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

- Why strengths diversity is the secret sauce to high performing teams

- Technology - friend or foe? How to decide and why

- How AI can become your biz bestie and make life a heck of a lot easier

- Why learning to lead multi-generational teams is a key topic to think about this year.

These are THE skills needed for leadership in a rapidly evolving work environment. 

If you want to be a legendary leader this year, you need to adapt to these key trends that will define the future of work. 

I’d love to hear about the leadership trends you predict this year!  Please reach out to me on  Instagram or LinkedIn and let me know! 

If you know someone who would benefit from listening to this episode, please pass it on.

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Links and Resources Mentioned:

FREE Workload Audit: A practical guide for managers to streamline their workload and maximise impact so they focus on what REALLY matters

Are we connected? If not, connect here:

Website: tashpieterse.com

Instagram: @tash_pieterse

LinkedIn: tashpieterse

Are you enjoying the Lead With Less podcast? You can leave a review on Apple or Spotify, or submit a question in the Q&A section on Spotify and we’ll get back to you!

In this episode, I talk about how certain leadership behaviours can unexpectedly affect your team and your productivity.

These 5 unintended consequences are the 5 that I see most commonly in my group program (VIP Leaders) and my 1:1 clients.

These actions and consequences are encountered by so many leaders, regardless of their experience level.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

• How quick responses might set unrealistic expectations for your availability and impact your workload.
• The risk of being too accessible which can lead to team dependency, stifling their ability to solve problems independently.
• The importance of delegating rather than doing, to create and nurture team growth to prevent personal burnout.
• Recognising that avoiding tough conversations, or 'silent kindness', can lead to frustration and a toxic work environment.

This episode is for you if you’re aiming to lead with intention and avoid common behaviours that can subtly undermine your leadership effectiveness.

I’d love to hear how this episode resonates with you and if there are any other unintended consequences you’ve encountered in your leadership journey.  Please feel free to reach out via Instagram or LinkedIn.

Also, if you know someone else would benefit from listening to this week’s episode, please pass it on.

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Links and Resources Mentioned:

• VIP Leaders Program – Early enrollment and interest for 2025 now
• Free 1:1 Playbook for how to turn casual catch ups into meaningful conversations that build trust, respect and connection in your team.
• Previous episode 67 - Setting & Managing Expectations As a Leader

Are we connected? If not, connect here:
Website: tashpieterse.com
Instagram: @tash_pieterse
LinkedIn: tashpieterse

Are you enjoying the Lead With Less podcast? You can leave a review on Apple or Spotify, or submit a question in the Q&A section on Spotify and we’ll get back to you!

In this episode, I explore the essential leadership skill of setting and managing expectations.

Inspired by a discussion in our VIP Leaders programme, this topic is important for new and seasoned leaders to master for effective team and personal management.

Here’s what you’ll learn:

• The importance of setting clear and achievable expectations.
• How setting and managing expectations can improve your leadership style and your team dynamics.
• My unique “Six C’s Framework” that will help you create expectations that are not only clear, but motivating.
• The difference between being ‘nice’ and being ‘kind’ in leadership
• Practical strategies to ensure your team knows exactly what’s expected of them and how to avoid common pitfalls that lead to confusion and frustration

Setting clear expectations simplifies leadership and improves relationships both professionally and personally.

Mastering expectations isn’t just about making your job easier. It’s about empowering your team and improving interactions across the board.

You’ll see how clear expectations reduce confusion and conflicts, making everyone’s job smoother and more enjoyable.

I would love to hear how you apply these strategies in your own leadership journey.  Please feel free to reach out and connect with me via Instagram or LinkedIn.

If you know someone who would benefit from listening to this episode, please pass it on.

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Links and Resources Mentioned:

• Set Supportive Boundaries Workshop that covers everything you need to know to start setting supportive boundaries.
  
• Free 1:1 Playbook. Learn how to have impactful catchups with your team - Free download.
• Round Table Strategy Sessions - Leadership Strategy Session.The Round Table - Leadership Strategy Sessions
  
• EP63 - Setting boundaries as a leader
• EP44 - How to say yes that actually supports you

Are we connected? If not, connect here:
Website: tashpieterse.com
Instagram: @tash_pieterse
LinkedIn: tashpieterse

Are you enjoying the Lead With Less podcast? You can leave a review on Apple or Spotify, or submit a question in the Q&A section on Spotify and we’ll get back to you!

In this episode, I talk to Colin D Ellis, a renowned culture change expert, about creating and maintaining a positive workplace culture.
Colin D Ellis is a global culture consultant sought after by organisations around the world to help them build vibrant, high-performance places to work.
To date, he has worked with almost 100 different cultures in almost 20 countries with clients ranging from Red Bull in Austria, to the US House of Representatives, the Dutch Olympic Team and IAG Insurance in Australia.
He shares his insights on the importance of culture in achieving high performance and the factors contributing to a toxic work environment.
We talk about proactive and intentional culture building strategies you can take to nurture a vibrant culture.
In this episode, you will learn:

• What it really means to create a great workplace and why every leader should care.
• What the signs of a negative culture are and practical steps to turn it around.
• How to nurture a culture that embraces change and nurtures a sense of belonging.
• The critical role workplace culture plays in achieving high performance and employee satisfaction.
• Practical strategies for leaders to cultivate a positive and inclusive workplace environment.
• The impact of leadership actions and decisions on shaping organisational culture.
• Methods to address and transform toxic workplace elements into constructive, engaging experiences.

 
Whether you’re leading a small team or an entire organisation, this conversation will give you the tools to create a positive environment where everyone feels valued.

If you want to improve your organisational culture, start with this episode. 

Resources from Colin

Quiz: www.fiveculturesquiz.com

Resources
FREE QUIZ: Find out which iconic movie character best represents your leadership style.

Connect with Colin:
Website: www.colindellis.com
Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/colindellis
Youtube: www.youtube.com/colindellis
Instagram: www.instagram.com/colindellis
Facebook: www.facebook.com/colindellis

Connect with Tash:
Website: tashpieterse.com
Instagram: @tash_pieterse
LinkedIn: tashpieterse

Are you enjoying the Lead With Less podcast? You can leave a review on Apple or Spotify, or submit a question in the Q&A section on Spotify and we’ll get back to you!

In this episode, I explain how to have effective 1:1 catch-ups with your team members.

It's such an important part of people leadership, yet often overlooked.

It is fundamental to creating strong connections and driving growth within your team.

In this episode you will learn:

• What makes 1:1’s so vital for your leadership and your team’s development.
• How to set the right tone for these catch ups so they are productive and meaningful.
• What the common barriers are to effective 1:1s, and how can you overcome them
• The questions you need to ask to facilitate growth and open communication
• How you can create accountability and continuous improvement from these catch ups.

1:1’s with your team aren’t a nice to have, they need to be non-negotiable if you want a high performing team.

If this episode helps you rethink how you engage with your team, or if you have anything to share, I’d love to hear from you on Instagram or LinkedIn.

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Resources mentioned:
Download my FREE 1:1 Playbook here that covers how to have good 1:1's and powerful questions to ask here
EP54 - Leading Without Expertise, with Emma Bennett

Need support to level up your leadership skills?
Learn more about my personalised 1:1 strategy sessions for Leaders to work on what’s challenging you right now. Head here.

Are we connected? If not, connect here:
Website: tashpieterse.com
Instagram: @tash_pieterse
LinkedIn: tashpieterse

Are you enjoying the Lead With Less podcast? You can leave a review on Apple or Spotify, or submit a question in the Q&A section on Spotify and we’ll get back to you!

In this episode, I talk about the challenge of imposter thoughts and feelings among leaders – an experience where accomplished individuals doubt their achievements and live in fear of being exposed as frauds.

This topic has been coming up a lot in my leadership programmes, online discussions, and even during client coaching sessions.

Leaders, especially high achievers and perfectionists, often face this challenge when stepping into new roles or taking on more responsibility, which is why I wanted to explore this further on the podcast this week.

I'll discuss the signs, types of imposter thinking, and offer practical tools to overcome it.

In this episode, you will learn:

•  What imposter thinking is and how it affects leaders
•  Why fear of rejection, judgement, or failure are often the drivers behind imposter thoughts and feelings 
•  The common imposter thinking signs and how they show up
•  What the five common imposter types are
•  Actionable tips and strategies for navigating imposter thoughts

Imposter feelings are common among leaders, but they don’t have to define your leadership experience.

Remember, you’re not alone in this, and learning to navigate imposter thinking can help you become a great Leader.

Resources mentioned:
EP20 - Overcoming Imposter Syndrome Thinking
EP54 - Leading Without Expertise with Emma Bennett

Work with me:
Round Table Personalised Strategy Session
VIP Leaders Programme

Are we connected? If not, connect here:
Website: tashpieterse.com
Instagram: @tash_pieterse
LinkedIn: tashpieterse

Are you enjoying the Lead With Less podcast? You can leave a review on Apple or Spotify, or submit a question in the Q&A section on Spotify and we’ll get back to you!

This week is all about the essential topic of boundary setting in leadership.

Boundaries are more than just personal limits; they are the foundation of healthy, productive relationships, both in and out of the workplace.

So, I'll explore what boundaries are, why they are challenging to establish, and the critical role they play in leadership.

From emotional and material boundaries to time and mental boundaries, you'll learn how to define and communicate your limits clearly and effectively.

In this episode, you will learn:

• What boundaries are and why they matter
• How boundaries can help you maintain healthy relationships
• Why setting boundaries can feel vulnerable and difficult
• Common fears that hold people back from establishing boundaries
• The leader's role in modelling and respecting boundaries
• Five key types of boundaries – emotional, material, time/energy, mental, and physical – and how to apply them in your leadership
• Practical steps for establishing where you may need boundaries, then how to set and maintain them

Whether you're leading a team or navigating relationships, this episode will empower you to set boundaries that foster respect, trust, and clarity.

How are you going to apply boundaries in your leadership? I would love to hear from you. Please feel free to reach out via Instagram or LinkedIn.

Also, if you know someone else would benefit from listening to this week’s episode, please pass it on.

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Resources mentioned:
EP61 - Difficult Conversations Made Simpler
Round Table Single Strategy Session

Something NEW is HERE for Leaders…
The Leaders Lounge - The community for Leaders who want to connect, grow, and Lead with courage and confidence. I've got all the details for you HERE

Are we connected? If not, connect here:
Website: tashpieterse.com
Instagram: @tash_pieterse
LinkedIn: tashpieterse

Are you enjoying the Lead With Less podcast? You can leave a review on Apple or Spotify, or submit a question in the Q&A section on Spotify and we’ll get back to you!

In this week’s episode, I sit down with Danni Ermilova Williams, a dynamic leader, coach, and consultant with a remarkable 17-year career in leadership, human resources, and organisational transformation. Danni shares her journey from a Director at PwC to founding her own consultancy, where she empowers individuals and organisations to navigate change with clarity and resilience.

Throughout the conversation, Danni opens up about the pivotal moments that led her to re-evaluate her definition of success and make significant life and career changes.

She discusses the challenges of embracing uncertainty, the strategies she uses to stay grounded during times of transition, and how she has redefined her purpose in both her professional and personal life.


In this episode, you will learn:

• How to recognise when change is needed, and the steps Danni took to make bold career moves
• Ways you can manage the discomfort of the “void” during periods of transition
• Why this time of discomfort is a crucial part of growth
• Strategies Danni used to reframe her understanding of success and purpose
• Key tactics for individuals and leaders to navigate and implement change effectively in their lives and organisations
• Advice for those seeking to intentionally create change, focusing on resilience, clarity, and action-oriented approaches

The episode is a must-listen for anyone looking to make a meaningful impact and navigate the complexities of change with confidence.

We would love to know what stood out for you the most in this episode. Please feel free to get in touch with myself or Danni on the links below.

Also, if you know someone else would benefit from listening to this week’s episode, please pass it on.

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Are You a Leader Looking for Community?

The Leaders Lounge - The community for Leaders who want to connect, grow, and Lead with courage and confidence is NOW OPEN! There are only two weeks to join to be part of the founding membership, so make sure you check it out!

If this sounds like something you are interested in hearing more about, click here.

Connect with Danni:
Email: hello@danniermilovawilliams.com
Website: danniermilovawilliams.com
LinkedIn: Danni Ermilova Williams
Instagram: @dewcoaching

Connect with Tash:
Website: tashpieterse.com
Instagram: @tash_pieterse
LinkedIn: tashpieterse

Are you enjoying the Lead With Less podcast? You can leave a review on Apple or Spotify, or submit a question in the Q&A section on Spotify and we’ll get back to you!

This week, I get into the art of navigating difficult conversations – those moments that are often avoided because they make us uncomfortable, trigger our egos, or seem unpredictable.

Whether it’s talking to your boss about something you’re struggling with, giving or receiving feedback, or setting boundaries in personal relationships, these conversations are unavoidable and necessary. 

You'll hear about the types of difficult conversations that frequently arise in various aspects of life, and I’ll guide you through a step-by-step process to handle them with confidence and clarity.

In this episode, you will learn:

• What can create unnecessary fear and anxiety
• How to make uncomfortable conversations less intimidating
• Why it’s important to engage in difficult conversation more often
• My step-by-step process for simplifying difficult conversations
• How to develop the emotional intelligence needed to manage your reactions and stay centred during these conversations

By the end of this episode, you'll be equipped with practical strategies to start these conversations with purpose, maintain emotional intelligence, and achieve a positive outcome for everyone involved.

What were your key takeaways from this episode? I would love to hear from you. Please feel free to reach out via Instagram or LinkedIn.

Also, if you know someone else would benefit from listening to this week’s episode, please pass it on.

Resources mentioned:
[Book] ‘Crucial Conversations’, by Kerry Patterson
Leadership Style Quiz 

Something NEW is coming for Leaders…

The Leaders Lounge - The community for Leaders who want to connect, grow, and Lead with courage and confidence.

If this sounds like something you are interested in hearing more about, click here.

Are we connected? If not, connect here:
Website: tashpieterse.com
Instagram: @tash_pieterse
LinkedIn: tashpieterse

Are you enjoying the Lead With Less podcast? You can leave a review on Apple or Spotify, or submit a question in the Q&A section on Spotify and we’ll get back to you!