Want to master the art of successful business partnerships and unlock the commercial power of human connection at work? In this must-listen episode, we dive deep into the often-misunderstood world of procurement, supply chain, and human-centered leadership with industry veteran Stephen Day, Chief Procurement Officer at Kantar Group.

Whether you’re a seasoned sales pro or new to corporate partnerships, Stephen shares eye-opening insights on what buyers really want, how to break through as a trusted partner instead of just a supplier, and the essential “human skills” that AI can never replace. Discover why empathy, curiosity, reframing, and authentic communication are the real “hard skills” of the modern workplace—and how embracing them can move you from lost deals to lasting relationships.

Packed with practical examples, negotiation secrets, and heartfelt stories of career lessons learned, this episode will shift your view of procurement and arm you with the tools to build better business from the inside out. If you’re ready to bring more humanity, confidence, and success to your working world, don’t miss this conversation!

Topics Discussed in this Episode:

• Human-centered leadership in business
• Commercial advantage of being human
• Importance of empathy at work
• Navigating procurement and partnerships
• Building trusted business relationships

View extended shownotes here

Further links to follow:

Helen Wada: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/helen-wada

The Human Advantage: https://www.thehumanadvantage.co.uk/

Unlock the secret to more powerful, productive conversations in your professional and personal life by discovering the transformative potential of your own voice. In this eye-opening episode of the Human Wise Podcast, people developer and Voiceprint creator Alan Robertson joins host Helen Wada to reveal how self-awareness, intentional communication, and data-driven tools can dramatically boost your influence and connection with others.

We delve into why most workplace talk happens subconsciously—and how harnessing conscious, considerate communication unleashes better collaboration, trust, and leadership impact. Alan explains his Voiceprint model, which categorizes our conversational approaches into three core “buckets,” and shares actionable strategies to shape your talk for influencing, exploring, or collaborating with colleagues, clients, and teams. Plus, hear practical stories from Alan’s extensive background in industrial relations, people management, and coaching, with relatable tips to address difficult conversations, read the room, and adapt your voice for any situation.

Whether you’re leading a team, coaching others, or looking to strengthen workplace relationships, this episode equips you with the mindset and methods to become more human—and more effective—at work. Don’t miss this game-changing guide to leveling up your conversations and driving positive change, one voice at a time!

Topics Discussed:

• Effective communication in the workplace
• Developing self-awareness in conversations
• Using data to explore speaking styles
• Building trust through active listening
• Influencing leaders with conversational techniques

View extended shownotes here

Further links to follow:

Helen Wada: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/helen-wada

The Human Advantage: https://www.thehumanadvantage.co.uk/

Welcome to Human Wise, the podcast that explores the commercial advantage of being human at work.

With host Helen Wada, executive coach and founder of The Human Advantage, each episode will explore what being human at work looks like across a wide range of industries, from people in senior management to those on the ground.

Building authentic human connections at work is more vital—and more challenging—than ever in today’s fast-paced, tech-driven world. In this inspiring episode, host Helen is joined by Sara Hope, executive coach and founder of The Conversation Space, and rising auctioneer Luke Harris to reveal how powerful, genuine conversations can transform business relationships and accelerate success.

Discover how embracing curiosity, asking better questions, and creating intentional space for real dialogue sets top performers apart—whether you’re leading a team, navigating your first job, or developing client trust in high-stakes sales. Sara shares key lessons from her book on "conversational wisdom" and explains the science and heart behind meaningful connections. Meanwhile, Luke offers a fresh Gen Z perspective, bringing anecdotes from his entrepreneurial journey and sharing tips for young professionals on building confidence, resilience, and rapport—even over the phone or in intimidating boardrooms.

Walk away with actionable strategies to foster openness, tackle difficult conversations, and make business development feel natural (instead of scary!). If you want to build impactful relationships and thrive in an evolving workplace, this episode is a must-listen for professionals of any generation.

Topics Discussed:

• Building human connection at work
• Power of authentic workplace conversations
• Importance of curiosity in relationships
• Creating psychologically safe environments
• Developing business development skills

View extended shownotes here

Further links to follow:

Helen Wada: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/helen-wada

The Human Advantage: https://www.thehumanadvantage.co.uk/