The C-Suite Framework – Details, episodes & analysis

The "C-Suite Framework" podcast dives deep into the world of corporate leadership by speaking with experts and C-Suite executives about key roles such as Operations, Risk, People, and Sustainability. Each episode dissects the challenges leaders face today, offering insights and practical takeaways for listeners looking to enhance their own careers. Balancing depth with fun, the podcast is both entertaining and informative, giving listeners a unique perspective into the dynamics of executive roles and how to navigate their own path to success.

🔎 Hosted by Jennifer Geary — former COO, CRO, and bestselling author of How to be a CRO, The Augmented COO, and more.

➡️ For more insights and training, visit csuiteframework.com

Bio

Amy Walters Cohen is an award-winning author and independent researcher specialising in cutting-edge thought leadership on today’s most pressing business challenges. 

With over 10 years’ experience in applied psychology, serving as a Head of Research for EY and Lane4, she has led projects into an array of HR and leadership topic areas, including the future of leadership, GenAI and digital transformation, maximising coaching effectiveness, hybrid working, 21st century career development, and organisational culture change. Amy is also a visiting lecturer at the University of Bath. 

Her book, Ruthlessly Caring: And Other Paradoxical Mindsets Leaders Need to Be Future-Fit, was published by the world-leading academic publisher John Wiley & Sons in 2023. In 2024, she became the first solo female author to win Business Book of the Year at the Business Book Awards and also won the People, Culture, and Management category. Additionally, she was named Thought Leader of the Year at the Management Consultancies Association (MCA) Awards.

Amy is a regular keynote speaker and has been featured in Ambition, The CEO Magazine, PQ Magazine, and HRD Magazine, as well as on The Evolving Leader podcast.

Keywords

leadership, paradoxical mindsets, research, organizational culture, future of work, coaching, AI, hybrid working, career development, evidence-based insights

Summary

In this podcast episode, Amy Walters-Cohen discusses her journey as an award-winning author and researcher specializing in leadership and organizational culture. She shares insights from her book 'Ruthlessly Caring,' which explores the paradoxical mindsets leaders need to navigate today's complex business environment. The conversation delves into the importance of research in leadership, the writing process of the book, and the impact of her recent awards on her career. Amy also introduces her new venture, Human Dynamics Research, aimed at helping leaders develop the skills necessary for future success.

Takeaways

• Paradoxical mindsets are essential for effective leadership.

• The writing process can be both rewarding and challenging.

• Awards can significantly enhance a book's visibility and credibility.

• Understanding internal scripts can empower leaders to change.

• Leadership requires a nuanced approach to decision-making.

• The importance of embracing discomfort for growth.

• AI and technology are reshaping leadership dynamics.

• Human Dynamics Research aims to provide evidence-based insights.

Sound Bites

"The importance of paradoxical mindsets"

"It's a human tendency to want to simplify"

"You need this in yourself as a leader"

"You can't outsource some of the mindsets"

"The writing process did come relatively easy"

"The book gave the audience a wider perspective"

"It's about being thoughtful about risks"

"You need to embrace both and thinking"

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Amy Walters-Cohen

02:22 Amy's Background and Career Journey

06:43 The Importance of Research in Leadership

07:08 Inspiration Behind 'Ruthlessly Caring'

09:34 Research Methodology for the Book

12:07 Complexity in Leadership Mindsets

14:30 The Role of Internal Scripts in Leadership

18:28 The Writing Process of the Book

19:54 Impact of Awards on Amy's Career

22:31 Discussion on Paradoxical Mindsets

28:24 Relevance of the Book in Today's Context

33:21 Amy's New Venture: Human Dynamics Research

For online courses, tools and books, visit www.csuiteframework.com 

In this podcast episode, Brendan Gilmore, managing director of BPG Strategy, shares his extensive experience in financial services, particularly focusing on debt and its strategic implications for businesses. He discusses the importance of understanding readiness for debt, the mindset required for engaging with debt markets, and the various types of debt available to companies. Brendan emphasizes the need for proper financial management and the scrutiny that comes with debt financing, contrasting it with equity funding. He also explores the different sources of debt and how businesses can navigate these options effectively. In this conversation, Brendan Gilmore from BPG Capital discusses the various sources of debt available for businesses, particularly SMEs, and the competitive landscape of lending. He emphasizes the importance of speed and simplicity in the funding process, especially for founders who are often busy with other aspects of their business. The discussion also covers current market conditions, the debt raising process, and the critical role of due diligence. Brendan shares insights for first-time debt borrowers, highlighting the necessity of paying a premium initially to build a track record for future funding opportunities.

Brendan Gilmore is Managing Director of BPG Strategy (https://bpgstrategy.com/)

Brendan has almost 30 years’ Financial Services experience, working across Lending, Credit, Workout, Strategy and Risk and so has a deep understanding of Financial Services from end to end.

Since 2017, Brendan has acted as consultant / adviser to Challenger Banks, Building Societies, Non-Bank Lenders, Technology Platforms and Start-ups.

Brendan helps market participants in to:

• optimise Strategy, Proposition, Operating Models and Risk

• acquire Customers

• develop Strategic Partnerships

• and of relevance today, to secure debt Funding for businesses

Brendan is a regular Speaker, Panellist and Moderator at Fintech, Banking and Building Society focussed events.

In this episode of The C-Suite Framework, host Jennifer Geary speaks with Corinne Thompson, founder and CEO of eCap Financial, about the realities of raising capital for startups — and why fundraising should be treated as a sales process.

Corinne shares hard-earned insights from her career spanning KPMG, VC-backed tech companies, and now as a fractional CFO and M&A advisor to high-growth B2B SaaS and deep tech startups. From equity to debt, data rooms to financial modelling, this conversation walks you through everything C-suite leaders and founders need to know to raise money with confidence.

🔍 Topics Covered:

• The difference between equity and debt funding — and when to use each

• How to build a compelling data room that attracts investors

• Common financial modelling mistakes that sabotage raises

• Why team alignment is critical throughout the fundraising process

• Market trends in venture capital and M&A activity

• What founders must communicate to win trust (and funding)
  
  

Corinne also shares her motivation for launching Fundraising 101, a course for founders navigating this process for the first time — and what she wishes she'd known earlier.

💡 Perfect for:
Founders, CFOs, startup COOs, aspiring C-suite execs, and anyone preparing to raise capital in today’s market.

🎧 Hosted by Jennifer Geary, author of The Augmented COO, How to be a CRO, and The C-Suite Series. Learn more at csuiteframework.com

🔗 Connect with Corinne: eCap Financial
📚 Browse all Jennifer’s books

In this episode of The C-Suite Framework, host Jennifer Geary is joined by Paula Boyle, executive coach and founder of Paula Boyle Coaching & Facilitation, to explore the often-overlooked emotional journey to becoming a confident, impactful C-suite leader.

With over 25 years of experience working with senior leaders across the globe, Paula shares transformative insights into:

• Imposter syndrome and how it shows up at the top
  
  

• Why calm, clarity and compassion are the most powerful leadership tools
  
  

• The link between mental wellbeing and strategic thinking
  
  

• How to prepare for a C-suite role emotionally, politically and practically
  
  

• Reducing cognitive load and managing attention to stay focused under pressure
  
  

Together, Jennifer and Paula dive into the internal work required to lead effectively — from self-acceptance and purpose to influence, power dynamics and the importance of relationships at the highest levels.

You’ll also hear Paula’s practical methods to help leaders:

• Slow down to speed up

• Build the right support networks

• Improve political intelligence without losing integrity

• Reconnect with joy, confidence and authentic presence
  
  

💡 This episode is for emerging executives, senior leaders in transition, or anyone preparing to step into bigger rooms with greater clarity and courage.

🎧 Hosted by Jennifer Geary, former COO/CRO and bestselling author of How to be a COO, The Augmented COO, and more.
➡️ More leadership insights, online courses and tools: csuiteframework.com

🔗 Learn more about Paula: https://www.paula-boyle.com 
📚 Browse Jennifer’s books: www.csuiteframework.com/books

In this episode of The C-Suite Framework, host Jennifer Geary sits down with Bronwyn Boyle, Chief Information Security Officer at PPRO, to explore the evolving role of the CISO — from risk manager to strategic business enabler.

With over two decades of global experience in cybersecurity, AI enablement, and technology strategy, Bronwyn shares her unexpected journey from studying classics to leading cybersecurity for global financial institutions. Together, she and Jennifer unpack what it takes to lead with clarity, simplicity, and empathy in a high-stakes digital world.

🔍 Topics covered:

• Why diverse backgrounds strengthen leadership in tech and cybersecurity
  
  

• The impact of AI on risk management — and how to stay ahead of evolving threats
  
  

• The growing importance of security culture across all departments
  
  

• How to align security strategy with business goals
  
  

• Redefining vulnerabilities and enabling safe, scalable AI adoption
  
  

• Why women are essential to the future of tech leadership
  
  

Bronwyn also shares insights on supporting mental health in high-pressure environments and offers practical takeaways for executives navigating today’s cyber risk landscape.

💡 This episode is essential listening for CISOs, CROs, tech-forward execs, and future-focused leaders navigating AI, security, and strategic transformation.

🎧 Hosted by Jennifer Geary, former COO/CRO and author of The Augmented COO, How to be a CRO, and the full C-Suite book series.

🔗 Learn more about Bronwyn: LinkedIn – Bronwyn Boyle
📚 Explore Jennifer’s books
🌐 More tools & training: csuiteframework.com

In this episode of The C-Suite Framework, host Jennifer Geary is joined by Mary Foley, sustainability consultant and former mining engineer, for a deep-dive into the future of supply chain governance, regulatory compliance, and sustainable strategy.

Mary brings her rare blend of engineering, sustainability leadership, and real-world consulting experience to discuss the powerful intersection of:

• Sustainability,
  
  

• Supply chain risk, and
  
  

• C-suite responsibility.
  
  

Together, Jennifer and Mary unpack the business implications of upcoming regulations like CSRD and CS Triple D, and how companies must act now to remain compliant, competitive, and credible in the eyes of investors and stakeholders.

🔍 Key discussion points:

• What the CSRD and CS Triple D mean for C-suite leaders
  
  

• Why internal collaboration across Legal, Risk, Finance and Ops is critical
  
  

• How AI and automation are reshaping sustainability reporting
  
  

• The leadership qualities needed to drive meaningful change
  
  

• Lessons from Mary’s transition from mining engineering to ESG consulting
  
  

• Advice for women in male-dominated industries — and the next generation of leaders
  
  

💡 A must-listen for COOs, CROs, CSOs, and senior professionals responsible for regulatory compliance, ESG, or operational transformation.

🎧 Hosted by Jennifer Geary, former COO and bestselling author of The Augmented COO, How to be a CSO, and the full C-Suite series.

📚 Explore Jennifer’s books
🌐 Tools & insights for modern leaders: csuiteframework.com

In this episode of The C-Suite Framework, host Jennifer Geary sits down with Anne Kiely, Chief People Officer at Aer Lingus and co-author of How to be a Chief People Officer, to unpack what it really takes to lead with empathy, data, and strategy in today’s C-suite.

Anne shares her journey from banking to HR leadership in global organisations like Twitter and Aer Lingus, and reflects on the evolving demands of the CPO role across industries. Together, she and Jennifer explore how employee experience, talent management, and DEIB (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion & Belonging) sit at the heart of long-term business success.

🔍 In this episode:

• The dual lens of the modern Chief People Officer: employee-first and business-aligned

• How to hire for skills over background in a competitive market

• Practical strategies for building a positive, resilient workplace culture

• The role of data and AI in shaping future-focused HR decisions

• Why DEIB isn’t just a programme — it’s a mindset

• The impact of community leadership through Anne’s work with Special Olympics Ireland
  
  

Get the book 'How to be a Chief People Officer' by Anne and Jennifer here.

This episode is filled with real-world wisdom for HR leaders, CPOs, CEOs, and anyone committed to putting people at the centre of strategy.

🎧 Hosted by Jennifer Geary, bestselling author and former COO/CPO. Jennifer and Anne are co-authors of How to be a Chief People Officer, part of the acclaimed C-Suite Series.

📘 Get the book: How to be a Chief People Officer
🌐 Tools, resources & leadership insights: csuiteframework.com
📚 Browse all titles in the C-Suite Series

Jennifer Geary interviews Anna Krotova, co-author of 'How to be a Chief Sustainability Officer.' They discuss the evolution of sustainability roles, the importance of organizational culture, the integration of sustainability into business strategy, and the concept of double materiality. Anna shares insights on building effective sustainability teams, the skills needed for a career in sustainability, and future trends in the field. The conversation emphasizes the challenges and responsibilities of CSOs and the importance of collaboration and support within the sustainability community.

Anna Krotova is a Sustainability Director and a pioneer in sustainability. She has been working in the field since 2010, advocating for transparent and responsible business practices that are rooted in respect for planetary boundaries and human rights. In her roles at the International Finance Corporation, Metabolic, Global Reporting Initiative, and private sector companies, Anna has helped organisations improve their sustainability practices, usher in impactive changes in company operations and culture, and encourage meaningful reflection around sustainability issues. She holds an MA in Environmental Policy from Moscow State University as well as an MSc in Industrial Ecology from Delft University of Technology, and she serves in various capacities across the sustainability community. She lives in Amsterdam with her husband and son.

Get 'How to be a Chief Sustainability Officer' by Anna and Jennifer here.

🎧 Hosted by Jennifer Geary, former COO and bestselling author of The Augmented COO, How to be a CSO, and the full C-Suite series.

📚 Explore Jennifer’s books
 🌐 Courses, tools & insights for modern leaders: csuiteframework.com

Dr. Max McKeown is an English writer, consultant, and researcher specialising in innovation strategy, leadership and culture. He has written six influential books and conducts research with Warwick Business School. He is a fellow of the RSA. He served on the advisory board for the Rollins Center for eBusiness. He earned his master's degree in Business Administration and PhD from the Warwick Business School 

Speaker, Innovator & Author of The Strategy Book, Adaptability and The Innovation Book, Creator of Speed Strategy, Strategic Psychologist.

In this engaging conversation, Dr. Max McKeown, a strategic psychologist, discusses the importance of strategy in leadership and innovation. He emphasizes that strategy is not just a document but a dynamic process that connects actions to desired outcomes. Dr. McKeown shares insights on how leaders, especially COOs, can engage with strategy, the significance of time for reflection, and the need for adaptability in a rapidly changing world. He also highlights common pitfalls in strategic thinking and the power of innovation as a means to achieve organizational goals.

Max’s website https://thespeedstrategy.com

Max’s latest book https://www.amazon.co.uk/Strategy-Book-Max-Mckeown/dp/1292466634

Takeaways

• The difference between a good manager and a great leader is strategic thinking.

• Strategy is everything that leads from where you are to where you want to be.

• Engaging with strategy requires asking the right questions.

• Time for strategic reflection is crucial for effective leadership.

• Balancing strengths and weaknesses is essential for a COO.

• Strategy should be integrated into every aspect of the organization.

• Innovation is about making new ideas useful for achieving goals.

• Strategic procrastination can hinder organizational success.

• Understanding the connection between actions and results is key to effective strategy.

• Culture and strategy must work together for successful execution.

🎧 Hosted by Jennifer Geary, former COO and bestselling author of The Augmented COO, How to be a COO, and the full C-Suite series.

📚 Explore Jennifer’s books
🌐 Tools & insights for modern leaders: csuiteframework.com

Welcome to the launch of the C-Suite Framework podcast!

In this short trailer, hear from me, Jennifer Geary, as I talk about my experience in stepping up to my first C-suite role, what I learned, how I distilled that learning into a set of books and why I felt compelled to start a podcast. Take a listen and head over to my first podcast with none other than Dr. Max McKeown, author of the best-selling strategy book in the world!

The "C-Suite Framework" podcast dives deep into the world of corporate leadership by speaking with experts and C-Suite executives about key roles such as Operations, Risk, People, and Sustainability. Each episode dissects the challenges leaders face today, offering insights and practical takeaways for listeners looking to enhance their own careers. Balancing depth with fun, the podcast is designed to be both entertaining and informative, giving listeners a unique perspective into the dynamics of executive roles and how to navigate their own path to success.