In this pair of Podcasts, we welcome a very special guest in Dr Maria Katsarou-Makin. Maria is the founder of the Leadership Psychology Institute where she brings together her deep knowledge of leadership and all that this implies together with 20 years of practical experience working with leaders and leadership teams to create an approach which really does help those who are in leadership roles and who aspire to leadership roles.

All this is supported by her complementary interest in psychology and in executive coaching.

Her work is rooted in an evidence-based approach - something we have noted in her dealings with us and which we very much admire. We are delighted that she has joined us to share her expertise and experience with you and us.

In part one, we explore Maria's interest in Leadership which started in her childhood whilst watching her father setting up, developing, and growing a thriving business based in Nigeria.

Reflecting the diverse cultural contexts in which Maria has worked and her personal experiences of leaders, good and bad, Maria suggests that leadership can be understood as a dynamic interplay between leaders, followers, and the situational backdrop.

While leadership can be influenced by cultural norms, it also possesses the power to reshape those very norms, making it a complex yet essential aspect of societal development.

We will also explore the notion of where the leader's intrinsic motivation comes from, how purpose provides the fuel, and how a leader's intrinsic motivation can be critical in fostering an environment where empathy and compassion thrive, ultimately enhancing the effectiveness and impact of leadership in any context.

Listen, learn and enjoy this thoughtful conversation.