In this episode of Lead with Courage, Cherie is joined by Mandy Dudson to explore one of the most impactful leadership capabilities: emotional intelligence.

Together, they unpack what EQ really means beyond the buzzwords and how leaders can actively develop the five core dimensions: self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, empathy, and social skills.

From understanding your "human iceberg" to navigating emotional triggers and practicing daily habits that build calm and clarity, this episode offers both insight and practical tools for leaders who want to respond more effectively, connect more deeply, and lead with heart.

You’ll hear:

• Why EQ is a skill, not a fixed trait
• The power of self-awareness as the foundation for empathy
• How stress affects your ability to respond (and what to do about it)
• Ways to uncover your personal triggers and help others do the same
• Why curiosity is the antidote to judgement

Whether you’re a seasoned executive or a developing leader, this conversation is a timely reminder that the more emotionally intelligent our leaders are, the better our workplaces and our world will be.

Did you enjoy the episode? Send us a text!

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Thanks for joining us on the Lead with Courage podcast, bought to you by Luminate Leadership. We trust this episode has given you some insights and joy to empower you live your biggest, best life.

If you enjoyed it, we'd be grateful if you like, share and subscribe to hear our future conversations.

To find out more about the work we do Luminate Leadership connect with us:
Luminate's Website and LinkedIn and on
Instagram : Luminate_Leadership and Cherie Canning

Until the next episode, we hope you live and Lead with Courage!
Cherie x
______________

Luminate Leadership is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a healthcare professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.

In this candid and inspiring conversation, Cherie and special guest host Andy Canning sit down with Matt Turner, founder of 99 Bikes and Chair of Pedal Group, to unpack the real journey of business growth, from opening one bike shop to leading Australia’s largest bike retailer. Matt reflects on the power of vision (including the infamous "50 stores" goal), the hard lessons in profitability, and the turning point that came from taking two months away from the business to reset and recharge.

Matt shares openly about navigating personal challenges, including an episode of psychosis that reshaped his outlook on life and leadership. He speaks about the ongoing balance between drive and acceptance, the role of employee ownership in building a thriving culture, and what legacy and success mean to him today—as a dad, a leader, and a human being.

Expect reflections on:

• The messy middle of growing a business
• Creating momentum without losing yourself
• Values that shape enduring leadership
• How health, authenticity, and contribution now guide Matt’s definition of success

Whether you're a founder, leader, or simply curious about what it really takes to lead with courage this one’s not to be missed.

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/matt9red/

Did you enjoy the episode? Send us a text!

______________

Thanks for joining us on the Lead with Courage podcast, bought to you by Luminate Leadership. We trust this episode has given you some insights and joy to empower you live your biggest, best life.

If you enjoyed it, we'd be grateful if you like, share and subscribe to hear our future conversations.

To find out more about the work we do Luminate Leadership connect with us:
Luminate's Website and LinkedIn and on
Instagram : Luminate_Leadership and Cherie Canning

Until the next episode, we hope you live and Lead with Courage!
Cherie x
______________

Luminate Leadership is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a healthcare professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.

Guest: Nat Cook – Olympian & Advocate for Aussie Athletes

In this inspiring episode, five-time Olympian and Olympic gold medallist Nat Cook sits down with Cherie to share the real story behind elite sport, the courage, resilience, and grit required to compete at the highest level, and the often unseen challenges that come after the medals.

Nat opens up about:

• The raw truth of leading with courage: why courage only exists alongside fear, and the importance of being bold enough to take the first step — even when terrified.
• Her journey through five Olympic Games, including the mindset shifts from "failure isn’t an option" to embracing resilience and bouncing back stronger.
• A powerful lesson she learned on the sand during competition: “No one’s coming” the brutal but liberating advice to own your journey and never wait for rescue.
• The real cost of a sporting career, including retiring with significant debt, no superannuation, and no formal degree and how this inspired her to create and champion the Aussie Athlete Fund to support the next generation.
• How sport and leadership lessons translate into everyday life — from managing pressure to building resilience, to leading yourself when no one else will.
• Her call to arms for the Brisbane 2032 Olympics: why staying in your city and being part of this moment is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for individuals, families, and communities.

Nat also shares fun and personal stories about her love for golf, the importance of networks, and her ongoing mission to empower young athletes to not only survive but thrive in their careers and beyond.

If you want a fresh perspective on leadership, courage, and resilience from someone who’s lived it on the world’s biggest stage this episode is a must-listen.

https://aussieathletefund.com/
https://nataliecook.com/
https://au.linkedin.com/in/nataliecookoamoly
https://www.instagram.com/natcook_official/

Did you enjoy the episode? Send us a text!

______________

Thanks for joining us on the Lead with Courage podcast, bought to you by Luminate Leadership. We trust this episode has given you some insights and joy to empower you live your biggest, best life.

If you enjoyed it, we'd be grateful if you like, share and subscribe to hear our future conversations.

To find out more about the work we do Luminate Leadership connect with us:
Luminate's Website and LinkedIn and on
Instagram : Luminate_Leadership and Cherie Canning

Until the next episode, we hope you live and Lead with Courage!
Cherie x
______________

Luminate Leadership is not a licensed mental health service and is not a substitute for professional mental health advice, treatment or assessment. The advice given in this episode is general in nature, but if you’re struggling, please see a healthcare professional, or call lifeline on 13 11 14.