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!

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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.

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.

In this episode, Cherie is joined by real estate powerhouse and entrepreneur Hayley Van De Ven, owner of multiple RE/MAX businesses and ambassador for Four Voices. Together, they explore what it means to lead with courage — from navigating tough conversations and setting boundaries, to building magnetic culture and a strong personal brand.

Hayley shares her journey from a teenage Kiwi receptionist to CEO of five businesses, including three RE/MAX offices and a thriving virtual assistant company. Her story is one of values-driven leadership, resilience, and unwavering authenticity. Whether you're an aspiring leader or seasoned entrepreneur, this episode is packed with relatable lessons and bold inspiration.

Key Takeaways

• What “lead with courage” means to Hayley
• The secret to creating values-led culture
• Her powerful morning routine and energy rituals
• Balancing leadership, parenting, and personal ambition
• How to handle rejection and build sales resilience
• Growing from one RE/MAX office to five businesses
• The importance of personal brand and showing up as your best self
• Hayley’s impactful role as an ambassador for Four Voices

Some of Hayley’s Mic Drop Moments:

Resources & Mentions:

• Four Voices – Support for women facing domestic violence, homelessness & isolation
• Sonia Stradiotto Couture – Power suits for powerful women
• Vinnies CEO Sleepout – National fundraiser to support homelessness services

Connect with Hayley Van De Ven

💼 RE/MAX Results | Bayside | Bayside Properties:

• Website: https://www.remaxresults.com.au
• Facebook: facebook.com/REMAXResultsQLD
• Instagram: @remaxresults
• LinkedIn (Office): RE/MAX Results

👤 Hayley Van De Ven:

• Instagram:

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.

What does it take to lead with trust, resilience, and courage—both in the pool and in the boardroom? In this episode of Lead with Courage, Cherie Canning sits down with Olympian-turned-entrepreneur Toby Jenkins to explore the lessons he’s learned from elite sport and leadership.

Toby, a former Australian water polo player and now Executive Coach, knows firsthand the power of trust under pressure. He shares how his Olympic journey shaped his leadership philosophy and how the same principles of teamwork, discipline, and psychological safety apply to business and beyond.

Together, Cherie and Toby dive into why trust is the ultimate competitive advantage, how leaders can create environments where people feel safe to take risks, and the small yet powerful actions that build deeper connections. With practical strategies and real-world insights, this conversation will leave you feeling inspired to lead with more authenticity, courage, and impact.

If you're looking to elevate your leadership, strengthen relationships, and create high-performing teams, this episode is packed with wisdom you won’t want to miss!

Resources:

Psychological Flexibility Test

Connect with Toby

Website: https://www.tobyajenkins.com/

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

Instagram @tobyjenkins

X: Toby_Jenkins

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.

In this episode of Lead with Courage, Cherie Canning speaks with workplace strategist and author Melissa Marsden about how the design of our work environments can significantly impact our well-being, productivity, and overall fulfillment. Melissa shares her expertise on creating spaces that support both individual and collective success by considering factors such as culture, leadership, and employee experience.

Drawing from her book The Next Workplace, Melissa emphasizes the importance of designing workplaces that align with human needs rather than forcing people to fit into rigid, outdated models. She also highlights how leaders can cultivate environments that foster creativity, collaboration, and engagement.

Key Takeaways:

✅ Workplace Design Affects Performance: Thoughtful workplace design can enhance productivity, creativity, and well-being. It’s not just about aesthetics but how spaces function to support people.

✅ Culture and Leadership Matter: A workplace’s success isn’t just about physical space; culture and leadership play a critical role in how employees feel and perform.

✅ The Future of Work is Human-Centered: Organizations need to rethink traditional office models and design workspaces that prioritize flexibility, connection, and purpose.

✅ Aligning Space with Strategy: The best workplaces are designed intentionally to reflect and reinforce company values, goals, and the unique needs of their teams.

✅ Practical Tips for Leaders: Melissa shares actionable insights for leaders looking to create more engaging and effective work environments, whether in-office, hybrid, or remote.

Resources:
Two Wolves

Contact Melissa

https://www.melissamarsden.com.au/

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

Instagram: @melmar

X: /melissamarsden1

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.

In this episode of the Lead with Courage podcast, Cherie welcomes Leanne Hughes, a dynamic facilitator, speaker, and podcast host known for pushing boundaries in leadership and learning. Leanne shares her journey from corporate life to entrepreneurship, highlighting the pivotal moments that shaped her career—including an unexpected challenge in a leadership workshop that ultimately led her to launch the First Time Facilitator podcast.

Cherie and Leanne dive into themes of personal branding, innovation in facilitation, and the courage required to stand out and take risks. Leanne reflects on the importance of embracing failure, stepping off the "Hesitation Station," and the power of saying "yes" to opportunities, even when they feel daunting—like cold-messaging cricket legend Justin Langer, which led to an unforgettable moment.

The conversation also explores the future of leadership development in the age of AI, the significance of personal energy management, and the value of building meaningful connections. As a special moment, Leanne turns the tables on Cherie, encouraging her to share her aspirations for writing a Lead with Courage book.

With humour, wisdom, and a wealth of insights, this episode is an inspiring reminder that leading with courage means trusting yourself, embracing bold decisions, and always staying curious.

https://www.leannehughes.com/

https://podcast.leannehughes.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/leannehughes/

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.

Shea Morrison, co-founder of The Goodnight Co. and a corporate wellness facilitator specialising in sleep health join Cherie for the first episode of season 3. Cherie and Shea explore the crucial role of sleep in leadership, well-being, and performance, as well as practical strategies for improving sleep quality.

Key Insights from the Conversation:

1. The Importance of Sleep in Leadership & Well-being – Good sleep enhances resilience, decision-making, and emotional regulation, making it essential for effective leadership.
2. Shifting the Narrative Around Sleep – Historically, sleep deprivation was seen as a badge of honor, but the conversation is shifting toward recognising sleep as a key pillar of health alongside diet and exercise.
3. Practical Tips for Better Sleep – Shea shares strategies such as maintaining a consistent sleep routine, managing light exposure, and prioritising rest and recovery.
4. Workplace Sleep Awareness – Leaders should understand their team's sleep challenges, encourage recovery breaks, and promote a culture that values rest to enhance productivity and well-being.
5. Sleep & the Bigger Picture – Sleep impacts long-term health, brain function, and overall quality of life. Small, consistent habits can make a significant difference in improving sleep.

The discussion highlights the importance of personalized sleep strategies, breaking unhealthy cycles, and integrating sleep awareness into corporate culture. Shea also shares her journey from a fast-paced media career to co-founding The Goodnight Co., emphasising the power of living authentically.

https://www.thegoodnightco.com.au/

Instagram: thegoodnightco

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.