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    <title>Who's Your Captain?</title>
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    <description>Who's Your Captain explores the leadership lessons hidden in the stories of sports' greatest captains. Hosted by Mark Francis, this podcast dives deep into what separates good leaders from legendary ones—on the field, in the locker room, and beyond.
Each episode features conversations with elite athletes, coaches, and sports professionals who've experienced world-class leadership firsthand. From the mental resilience required to lead under pressure to the communication strategies that unite divided teams, Mark unpacks the principles that make exceptional captains unforgettable.
Whether you're leading a business, managing a team, or navigating your own personal challenges, the insights from sports captains translate directly to everyday leadership. These aren't just sports stories—they're blueprints for building trust, inspiring performance, and leading with integrity.
Mark Francis brings his passion for sports and leadership together to deliver authentic, actionable conversations that inspire listeners to step up and lead in their own lives. New episodes drop weekly, bringing you closer to understanding what it truly means to captain your own ship.
Subscribe to join a community of leaders who believe the best lessons come from those who've done it at the highest level.</description>
    <copyright>© 2026 Mark Francis</copyright>
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    <pubDate>Fri, 17 Jul 2026 13:00:13 +0100</pubDate>
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    <itunes:summary>Who's Your Captain explores the leadership lessons hidden in the stories of sports' greatest captains. Hosted by Mark Francis, this podcast dives deep into what separates good leaders from legendary ones—on the field, in the locker room, and beyond.
Each episode features conversations with elite athletes, coaches, and sports professionals who've experienced world-class leadership firsthand. From the mental resilience required to lead under pressure to the communication strategies that unite divided teams, Mark unpacks the principles that make exceptional captains unforgettable.
Whether you're leading a business, managing a team, or navigating your own personal challenges, the insights from sports captains translate directly to everyday leadership. These aren't just sports stories—they're blueprints for building trust, inspiring performance, and leading with integrity.
Mark Francis brings his passion for sports and leadership together to deliver authentic, actionable conversations that inspire listeners to step up and lead in their own lives. New episodes drop weekly, bringing you closer to understanding what it truly means to captain your own ship.
Subscribe to join a community of leaders who believe the best lessons come from those who've done it at the highest level.</itunes:summary>
    <itunes:subtitle>Who's Your Captain explores the leadership lessons hidden in the stories of sports' greatest captains.</itunes:subtitle>
    <itunes:keywords>Who's Your Captain, Mark Francis, leadership podcast, executive coaching, business leadership, mentorship, leadership development, transformational leadership, The Uspire Partnership, business strategy, executive thinking, leadership wisdom, professional development, team leadership, business growth, leadership inspiration, coaching insights, purposeful leadership, business performance, organisational transformation, leadership conversations, mentor stories, business success, executive mindset, leadership influence, retail leadership, organisational change</itunes:keywords>
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    <itunes:complete>No</itunes:complete>
    <itunes:explicit>No</itunes:explicit>
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      <title>SE01E25 The Psychology of Great Leadership I Ben Farrell MBE</title>
      <itunes:episode>25</itunes:episode>
      <podcast:episode>25</podcast:episode>
      <itunes:title>SE01E25 The Psychology of Great Leadership I Ben Farrell MBE</itunes:title>
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        <![CDATA[<p>What makes a truly great leader? In this insightful episode, Mark Francis sits down with Ben Farrell MBE, CEO of CIPS, Chairman at the Forces Employment Charity &amp; The Invictus Games Foundation Programme Board, to explore the principles of leadership, emotional intelligence, trust, and influence.</p><p>Drawing from his distinguished military career, including service as a Colonel in the British Army, and his leadership experience in global organizations, Ben shares powerful lessons on mission leadership, emotional connection, empowerment, and building high-performing teams.</p><p>In this conversation, Mark Francis and Ben Farrell MBE discuss:</p><p>• The difference between leadership and management<br>• Why emotional connection is the foundation of effective leadership<br>• Lessons learned at Sandhurst and in military service<br>• How fear and confidence spread through teams<br>• The power of mission leadership and empowerment<br>• Leading global organizations across cultures and countries<br>• Building trust and developing future leaders<br>• Awakening organizational potential and driving change<br>• Creating purpose-driven workplaces that inspire people<br>• How great leaders measure success</p><p>Ben also shares fascinating stories from Iraq, his experiences leading internationally, and how his leadership philosophy continues to shape organizations around the world.</p><p>Whether you're a business leader, entrepreneur, executive, manager, military professional, or someone passionate about personal growth, this episode offers practical leadership insights that can be applied in any environment.</p><p>Guest:<br>Ben Farrell MBE<br>Chairman at the Forces Employment Charity &amp; The Invictus Games Foundation Programme Board</p><p>Connect with Ben Farrell MBE on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-farrell-mbe/</p><p>Host:<br>Mark Francis</p><p>Topics Covered:<br>Leadership Development, Emotional Intelligence, Mission Leadership, Team Building, Organizational Culture, Military Leadership, Executive Leadership, Business Growth, Employee Engagement, Leadership Mindset, Management Skills, Professional Development, Strategic Leadership, Global Leadership, Procurement Leadership</p><p>#MarkFrancis #BenFarrellMBE #Leadership #LeadershipDevelopment #EmotionalIntelligence #MissionLeadership #ExecutiveLeadership #BusinessLeadership #Management #TeamBuilding #MilitaryLeadership #PersonalDevelopment #OrganizationalCulture #ProfessionalGrowth #LeadershipPodcast</p><p>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
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        <![CDATA[<p>What makes a truly great leader? In this insightful episode, Mark Francis sits down with Ben Farrell MBE, CEO of CIPS, Chairman at the Forces Employment Charity &amp; The Invictus Games Foundation Programme Board, to explore the principles of leadership, emotional intelligence, trust, and influence.</p><p>Drawing from his distinguished military career, including service as a Colonel in the British Army, and his leadership experience in global organizations, Ben shares powerful lessons on mission leadership, emotional connection, empowerment, and building high-performing teams.</p><p>In this conversation, Mark Francis and Ben Farrell MBE discuss:</p><p>• The difference between leadership and management<br>• Why emotional connection is the foundation of effective leadership<br>• Lessons learned at Sandhurst and in military service<br>• How fear and confidence spread through teams<br>• The power of mission leadership and empowerment<br>• Leading global organizations across cultures and countries<br>• Building trust and developing future leaders<br>• Awakening organizational potential and driving change<br>• Creating purpose-driven workplaces that inspire people<br>• How great leaders measure success</p><p>Ben also shares fascinating stories from Iraq, his experiences leading internationally, and how his leadership philosophy continues to shape organizations around the world.</p><p>Whether you're a business leader, entrepreneur, executive, manager, military professional, or someone passionate about personal growth, this episode offers practical leadership insights that can be applied in any environment.</p><p>Guest:<br>Ben Farrell MBE<br>Chairman at the Forces Employment Charity &amp; The Invictus Games Foundation Programme Board</p><p>Connect with Ben Farrell MBE on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-farrell-mbe/</p><p>Host:<br>Mark Francis</p><p>Topics Covered:<br>Leadership Development, Emotional Intelligence, Mission Leadership, Team Building, Organizational Culture, Military Leadership, Executive Leadership, Business Growth, Employee Engagement, Leadership Mindset, Management Skills, Professional Development, Strategic Leadership, Global Leadership, Procurement Leadership</p><p>#MarkFrancis #BenFarrellMBE #Leadership #LeadershipDevelopment #EmotionalIntelligence #MissionLeadership #ExecutiveLeadership #BusinessLeadership #Management #TeamBuilding #MilitaryLeadership #PersonalDevelopment #OrganizationalCulture #ProfessionalGrowth #LeadershipPodcast</p><p>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
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      <pubDate>Fri, 17 Jul 2026 13:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
      <author>Mark Francis</author>
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      <itunes:author>Mark Francis</itunes:author>
      <itunes:duration>3069</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>
        <![CDATA[<p>What makes a truly great leader? In this insightful episode, Mark Francis sits down with Ben Farrell MBE, CEO of CIPS, Chairman at the Forces Employment Charity &amp; The Invictus Games Foundation Programme Board, to explore the principles of leadership, emotional intelligence, trust, and influence.</p><p>Drawing from his distinguished military career, including service as a Colonel in the British Army, and his leadership experience in global organizations, Ben shares powerful lessons on mission leadership, emotional connection, empowerment, and building high-performing teams.</p><p>In this conversation, Mark Francis and Ben Farrell MBE discuss:</p><p>• The difference between leadership and management<br>• Why emotional connection is the foundation of effective leadership<br>• Lessons learned at Sandhurst and in military service<br>• How fear and confidence spread through teams<br>• The power of mission leadership and empowerment<br>• Leading global organizations across cultures and countries<br>• Building trust and developing future leaders<br>• Awakening organizational potential and driving change<br>• Creating purpose-driven workplaces that inspire people<br>• How great leaders measure success</p><p>Ben also shares fascinating stories from Iraq, his experiences leading internationally, and how his leadership philosophy continues to shape organizations around the world.</p><p>Whether you're a business leader, entrepreneur, executive, manager, military professional, or someone passionate about personal growth, this episode offers practical leadership insights that can be applied in any environment.</p><p>Guest:<br>Ben Farrell MBE<br>Chairman at the Forces Employment Charity &amp; The Invictus Games Foundation Programme Board</p><p>Connect with Ben Farrell MBE on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/ben-farrell-mbe/</p><p>Host:<br>Mark Francis</p><p>Topics Covered:<br>Leadership Development, Emotional Intelligence, Mission Leadership, Team Building, Organizational Culture, Military Leadership, Executive Leadership, Business Growth, Employee Engagement, Leadership Mindset, Management Skills, Professional Development, Strategic Leadership, Global Leadership, Procurement Leadership</p><p>#MarkFrancis #BenFarrellMBE #Leadership #LeadershipDevelopment #EmotionalIntelligence #MissionLeadership #ExecutiveLeadership #BusinessLeadership #Management #TeamBuilding #MilitaryLeadership #PersonalDevelopment #OrganizationalCulture #ProfessionalGrowth #LeadershipPodcast</p><p>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
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      <title>SE01E24 From Introvert to International Keynote Speaker I Shola Kaye</title>
      <itunes:episode>24</itunes:episode>
      <podcast:episode>24</podcast:episode>
      <itunes:title>SE01E24 From Introvert to International Keynote Speaker I Shola Kaye</itunes:title>
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        <![CDATA[<p>In this inspiring episode, Mark Francis sits down with Shola Kaye, Communication and Empathy Keynote Speaker, author, former investment banker, IT consultant, professional singer, and internationally recognized expert on empathy, leadership, communication, and workplace culture.</p><p>Shola shares her remarkable career journey, from teaching and corporate consulting to building a successful career as a professional singer and becoming one of the world's leading keynote speakers on empathy and inclusive leadership. Together, Mark and Shola explore how courage, curiosity, emotional intelligence, and authentic communication can help individuals unlock their potential and create greater impact in their careers and organizations.</p><p>The conversation dives into the power of empathy in leadership, overcoming introversion, building confidence, developing presentation skills, speaking with influence, and creating psychologically safe workplaces where employees feel heard, valued, and empowered.</p><p>Key topics discussed:</p><p>* The role of empathy in effective leadership<br>* How introverts can build confidence and influence<br>* Communication skills for leaders and professionals<br>* Emotional intelligence in the workplace<br>* Moving from small talk to meaningful conversations<br>* Building psychologically safe and inclusive teams<br>* Public speaking, presentation skills, and audience engagement<br>* Career reinvention and personal growth<br>* The importance of courage, curiosity, and compassion<br>* How to create more engaged and productive workplace cultures</p><p>Shola also shares practical insights from her books, including strategies for developing stronger communication skills, navigating difficult conversations, and becoming a more empathetic leader. Her unique perspective combines years of corporate experience, performance expertise, and leadership development to help professionals communicate with greater confidence and impact.</p><p>Whether you're a leader, manager, entrepreneur, HR professional, speaker, or someone looking to improve your communication and leadership skills, this conversation is packed with valuable lessons and actionable insights.</p><p>Subscribe for more interviews featuring leadership experts, business professionals, authors, keynote speakers, and industry leaders sharing strategies for personal growth, communication excellence, workplace success, and professional development.</p><p>Connect with Shola Kaye on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sholakaye/</p><p>#MarkFrancis #SholaKaye #CommunicationSkills #EmpathyLeadership #LeadershipDevelopment #EmotionalIntelligence #PublicSpeaking #PresentationSkills #WorkplaceCulture #InclusiveLeadership #LeadershipPodcast #ProfessionalDevelopment #PersonalGrowth #EmployeeEngagement #BusinessLeadership #ConfidenceBuilding #CareerDevelopment #PsychologicalSafety #CommunicationTraining #LeadershipSkills</p><p><br>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </description>
      <content:encoded>
        <![CDATA[<p>In this inspiring episode, Mark Francis sits down with Shola Kaye, Communication and Empathy Keynote Speaker, author, former investment banker, IT consultant, professional singer, and internationally recognized expert on empathy, leadership, communication, and workplace culture.</p><p>Shola shares her remarkable career journey, from teaching and corporate consulting to building a successful career as a professional singer and becoming one of the world's leading keynote speakers on empathy and inclusive leadership. Together, Mark and Shola explore how courage, curiosity, emotional intelligence, and authentic communication can help individuals unlock their potential and create greater impact in their careers and organizations.</p><p>The conversation dives into the power of empathy in leadership, overcoming introversion, building confidence, developing presentation skills, speaking with influence, and creating psychologically safe workplaces where employees feel heard, valued, and empowered.</p><p>Key topics discussed:</p><p>* The role of empathy in effective leadership<br>* How introverts can build confidence and influence<br>* Communication skills for leaders and professionals<br>* Emotional intelligence in the workplace<br>* Moving from small talk to meaningful conversations<br>* Building psychologically safe and inclusive teams<br>* Public speaking, presentation skills, and audience engagement<br>* Career reinvention and personal growth<br>* The importance of courage, curiosity, and compassion<br>* How to create more engaged and productive workplace cultures</p><p>Shola also shares practical insights from her books, including strategies for developing stronger communication skills, navigating difficult conversations, and becoming a more empathetic leader. Her unique perspective combines years of corporate experience, performance expertise, and leadership development to help professionals communicate with greater confidence and impact.</p><p>Whether you're a leader, manager, entrepreneur, HR professional, speaker, or someone looking to improve your communication and leadership skills, this conversation is packed with valuable lessons and actionable insights.</p><p>Subscribe for more interviews featuring leadership experts, business professionals, authors, keynote speakers, and industry leaders sharing strategies for personal growth, communication excellence, workplace success, and professional development.</p><p>Connect with Shola Kaye on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sholakaye/</p><p>#MarkFrancis #SholaKaye #CommunicationSkills #EmpathyLeadership #LeadershipDevelopment #EmotionalIntelligence #PublicSpeaking #PresentationSkills #WorkplaceCulture #InclusiveLeadership #LeadershipPodcast #ProfessionalDevelopment #PersonalGrowth #EmployeeEngagement #BusinessLeadership #ConfidenceBuilding #CareerDevelopment #PsychologicalSafety #CommunicationTraining #LeadershipSkills</p><p><br>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
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      <pubDate>Fri, 10 Jul 2026 13:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
      <author>Mark Francis</author>
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      <itunes:duration>2883</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>
        <![CDATA[<p>In this inspiring episode, Mark Francis sits down with Shola Kaye, Communication and Empathy Keynote Speaker, author, former investment banker, IT consultant, professional singer, and internationally recognized expert on empathy, leadership, communication, and workplace culture.</p><p>Shola shares her remarkable career journey, from teaching and corporate consulting to building a successful career as a professional singer and becoming one of the world's leading keynote speakers on empathy and inclusive leadership. Together, Mark and Shola explore how courage, curiosity, emotional intelligence, and authentic communication can help individuals unlock their potential and create greater impact in their careers and organizations.</p><p>The conversation dives into the power of empathy in leadership, overcoming introversion, building confidence, developing presentation skills, speaking with influence, and creating psychologically safe workplaces where employees feel heard, valued, and empowered.</p><p>Key topics discussed:</p><p>* The role of empathy in effective leadership<br>* How introverts can build confidence and influence<br>* Communication skills for leaders and professionals<br>* Emotional intelligence in the workplace<br>* Moving from small talk to meaningful conversations<br>* Building psychologically safe and inclusive teams<br>* Public speaking, presentation skills, and audience engagement<br>* Career reinvention and personal growth<br>* The importance of courage, curiosity, and compassion<br>* How to create more engaged and productive workplace cultures</p><p>Shola also shares practical insights from her books, including strategies for developing stronger communication skills, navigating difficult conversations, and becoming a more empathetic leader. Her unique perspective combines years of corporate experience, performance expertise, and leadership development to help professionals communicate with greater confidence and impact.</p><p>Whether you're a leader, manager, entrepreneur, HR professional, speaker, or someone looking to improve your communication and leadership skills, this conversation is packed with valuable lessons and actionable insights.</p><p>Subscribe for more interviews featuring leadership experts, business professionals, authors, keynote speakers, and industry leaders sharing strategies for personal growth, communication excellence, workplace success, and professional development.</p><p>Connect with Shola Kaye on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sholakaye/</p><p>#MarkFrancis #SholaKaye #CommunicationSkills #EmpathyLeadership #LeadershipDevelopment #EmotionalIntelligence #PublicSpeaking #PresentationSkills #WorkplaceCulture #InclusiveLeadership #LeadershipPodcast #ProfessionalDevelopment #PersonalGrowth #EmployeeEngagement #BusinessLeadership #ConfidenceBuilding #CareerDevelopment #PsychologicalSafety #CommunicationTraining #LeadershipSkills</p><p><br>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </itunes:summary>
      <itunes:keywords>Who's Your Captain, Mark Francis, leadership podcast, executive coaching, business leadership, mentorship, leadership development, transformational leadership, The Uspire Partnership, business strategy, executive thinking, leadership wisdom, professional development, team leadership, business growth, leadership inspiration, coaching insights, purposeful leadership, business performance, organisational transformation, leadership conversations, mentor stories, business success, executive mindset, leadership influence, retail leadership, organisational change</itunes:keywords>
      <itunes:explicit>No</itunes:explicit>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SE01E23 People First Leadership That Actually Works I Lycia Lobo</title>
      <itunes:episode>23</itunes:episode>
      <podcast:episode>23</podcast:episode>
      <itunes:title>SE01E23 People First Leadership That Actually Works I Lycia Lobo</itunes:title>
      <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
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      <link>https://share.transistor.fm/s/6ec93e1e</link>
      <description>
        <![CDATA[<p>Mark Francis speaks with Lycia Lobo, Chief Operating Officer at the Design Museum, about building a high growth cultural organisation through people first leadership, strong operations, and long term vision.</p><p>In this conversation, Lycia Lobo shares how the Design Museum balances daily operations with strategic growth, how teams stay aligned across multiple functions, and how leadership, rhythm, and collaboration shape the visitor experience.</p><p>She also discusses the museum’s evolving exhibitions, commercial transformation, digital development, and the importance of trustees, volunteers, and cross functional teams in driving sustainable impact.</p><p>Mark Francis and Lycia Lobo explore how the Design Museum continues to grow as a global hub for design, while staying focused on culture, community, and future focused innovation.</p><p>Chief Operating Officer<br>the Design Museum</p><p>Connect with Lycia Lobo on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lycia-lobo-67a2272b/?originalSubdomain=uk</p><p>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </description>
      <content:encoded>
        <![CDATA[<p>Mark Francis speaks with Lycia Lobo, Chief Operating Officer at the Design Museum, about building a high growth cultural organisation through people first leadership, strong operations, and long term vision.</p><p>In this conversation, Lycia Lobo shares how the Design Museum balances daily operations with strategic growth, how teams stay aligned across multiple functions, and how leadership, rhythm, and collaboration shape the visitor experience.</p><p>She also discusses the museum’s evolving exhibitions, commercial transformation, digital development, and the importance of trustees, volunteers, and cross functional teams in driving sustainable impact.</p><p>Mark Francis and Lycia Lobo explore how the Design Museum continues to grow as a global hub for design, while staying focused on culture, community, and future focused innovation.</p><p>Chief Operating Officer<br>the Design Museum</p><p>Connect with Lycia Lobo on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lycia-lobo-67a2272b/?originalSubdomain=uk</p><p>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </content:encoded>
      <pubDate>Fri, 03 Jul 2026 13:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
      <author>Mark Francis</author>
      <enclosure url="https://media.transistor.fm/6ec93e1e/7b7b1686.mp3" length="22024628" type="audio/mpeg"/>
      <itunes:author>Mark Francis</itunes:author>
      <itunes:duration>2748</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>
        <![CDATA[<p>Mark Francis speaks with Lycia Lobo, Chief Operating Officer at the Design Museum, about building a high growth cultural organisation through people first leadership, strong operations, and long term vision.</p><p>In this conversation, Lycia Lobo shares how the Design Museum balances daily operations with strategic growth, how teams stay aligned across multiple functions, and how leadership, rhythm, and collaboration shape the visitor experience.</p><p>She also discusses the museum’s evolving exhibitions, commercial transformation, digital development, and the importance of trustees, volunteers, and cross functional teams in driving sustainable impact.</p><p>Mark Francis and Lycia Lobo explore how the Design Museum continues to grow as a global hub for design, while staying focused on culture, community, and future focused innovation.</p><p>Chief Operating Officer<br>the Design Museum</p><p>Connect with Lycia Lobo on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lycia-lobo-67a2272b/?originalSubdomain=uk</p><p>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </itunes:summary>
      <itunes:keywords>Who's Your Captain, Mark Francis, leadership podcast, executive coaching, business leadership, mentorship, leadership development, transformational leadership, The Uspire Partnership, business strategy, executive thinking, leadership wisdom, professional development, team leadership, business growth, leadership inspiration, coaching insights, purposeful leadership, business performance, organisational transformation, leadership conversations, mentor stories, business success, executive mindset, leadership influence, retail leadership, organisational change</itunes:keywords>
      <itunes:explicit>No</itunes:explicit>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SE01E22 COO Leading High Growth Logistics with People First Leadership Victor Mraz</title>
      <itunes:episode>22</itunes:episode>
      <podcast:episode>22</podcast:episode>
      <itunes:title>SE01E22 COO Leading High Growth Logistics with People First Leadership Victor Mraz</itunes:title>
      <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
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      <link>https://share.transistor.fm/s/3f81546f</link>
      <description>
        <![CDATA[<p>In this episode of Who's Your Captain, Mark Francis sits down with Victor Mraz, Chief Operating Officer of Diverse Logistics &amp; Distribution LLC, to explore what it really takes to run and scale a complex final mile logistics business.</p><p>Victor breaks down how leadership in logistics goes far beyond operations. From managing large frontline teams and contractor networks to ensuring customer experience at every doorstep, the conversation dives into how culture, trust, and structure drive performance at scale.</p><p>A major theme is servant leadership, where leadership exists to support the frontline teams, not the other way around. Victor explains how this mindset, combined with clear principles like the Three Cs: customer service, capacity, and compliance, creates consistency across hundreds of team members and multiple markets.</p><p>The discussion also covers how the business has achieved sustained organic growth, improved employee retention, and built structured career development paths using tools like the nine box performance and potential model. Victor shares how frontline tenure has grown significantly by focusing on development and progression rather than just hiring and replacement cycles.</p><p>There is also a strong focus on real world execution. From training delivery teams on soft skills and customer communication, to handling customer issues in real time using structured language techniques, Victor explains how operational excellence and customer experience are tightly linked.</p><p>The episode also explores modern leadership tools, including how AI driven scheduling and task management helps prioritize work, adapt calendars dynamically, and improve decision making across a fast moving organization.</p><p>Finally, Victor reflects on long term vision and legacy, emphasizing the importance of building future leaders and shaping industry standards, not just growing revenue.</p><p>Guests:<br>Mark Francis<br>Victor Mraz</p><p>Connect on LinkedIn: Victor Mraz LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/victor-mraz/</p><p>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </description>
      <content:encoded>
        <![CDATA[<p>In this episode of Who's Your Captain, Mark Francis sits down with Victor Mraz, Chief Operating Officer of Diverse Logistics &amp; Distribution LLC, to explore what it really takes to run and scale a complex final mile logistics business.</p><p>Victor breaks down how leadership in logistics goes far beyond operations. From managing large frontline teams and contractor networks to ensuring customer experience at every doorstep, the conversation dives into how culture, trust, and structure drive performance at scale.</p><p>A major theme is servant leadership, where leadership exists to support the frontline teams, not the other way around. Victor explains how this mindset, combined with clear principles like the Three Cs: customer service, capacity, and compliance, creates consistency across hundreds of team members and multiple markets.</p><p>The discussion also covers how the business has achieved sustained organic growth, improved employee retention, and built structured career development paths using tools like the nine box performance and potential model. Victor shares how frontline tenure has grown significantly by focusing on development and progression rather than just hiring and replacement cycles.</p><p>There is also a strong focus on real world execution. From training delivery teams on soft skills and customer communication, to handling customer issues in real time using structured language techniques, Victor explains how operational excellence and customer experience are tightly linked.</p><p>The episode also explores modern leadership tools, including how AI driven scheduling and task management helps prioritize work, adapt calendars dynamically, and improve decision making across a fast moving organization.</p><p>Finally, Victor reflects on long term vision and legacy, emphasizing the importance of building future leaders and shaping industry standards, not just growing revenue.</p><p>Guests:<br>Mark Francis<br>Victor Mraz</p><p>Connect on LinkedIn: Victor Mraz LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/victor-mraz/</p><p>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </content:encoded>
      <pubDate>Fri, 26 Jun 2026 13:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
      <author>Mark Francis</author>
      <enclosure url="https://media.transistor.fm/3f81546f/9689f168.mp3" length="20919353" type="audio/mpeg"/>
      <itunes:author>Mark Francis</itunes:author>
      <itunes:duration>2610</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>
        <![CDATA[<p>In this episode of Who's Your Captain, Mark Francis sits down with Victor Mraz, Chief Operating Officer of Diverse Logistics &amp; Distribution LLC, to explore what it really takes to run and scale a complex final mile logistics business.</p><p>Victor breaks down how leadership in logistics goes far beyond operations. From managing large frontline teams and contractor networks to ensuring customer experience at every doorstep, the conversation dives into how culture, trust, and structure drive performance at scale.</p><p>A major theme is servant leadership, where leadership exists to support the frontline teams, not the other way around. Victor explains how this mindset, combined with clear principles like the Three Cs: customer service, capacity, and compliance, creates consistency across hundreds of team members and multiple markets.</p><p>The discussion also covers how the business has achieved sustained organic growth, improved employee retention, and built structured career development paths using tools like the nine box performance and potential model. Victor shares how frontline tenure has grown significantly by focusing on development and progression rather than just hiring and replacement cycles.</p><p>There is also a strong focus on real world execution. From training delivery teams on soft skills and customer communication, to handling customer issues in real time using structured language techniques, Victor explains how operational excellence and customer experience are tightly linked.</p><p>The episode also explores modern leadership tools, including how AI driven scheduling and task management helps prioritize work, adapt calendars dynamically, and improve decision making across a fast moving organization.</p><p>Finally, Victor reflects on long term vision and legacy, emphasizing the importance of building future leaders and shaping industry standards, not just growing revenue.</p><p>Guests:<br>Mark Francis<br>Victor Mraz</p><p>Connect on LinkedIn: Victor Mraz LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/victor-mraz/</p><p>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </itunes:summary>
      <itunes:keywords>Who's Your Captain, Mark Francis, leadership podcast, executive coaching, business leadership, mentorship, leadership development, transformational leadership, The Uspire Partnership, business strategy, executive thinking, leadership wisdom, professional development, team leadership, business growth, leadership inspiration, coaching insights, purposeful leadership, business performance, organisational transformation, leadership conversations, mentor stories, business success, executive mindset, leadership influence, retail leadership, organisational change</itunes:keywords>
      <itunes:explicit>No</itunes:explicit>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SE01E21 Women’s Football Growth, Leadership and the Future of the Game I Sue Day</title>
      <itunes:episode>21</itunes:episode>
      <podcast:episode>21</podcast:episode>
      <itunes:title>SE01E21 Women’s Football Growth, Leadership and the Future of the Game I Sue Day</itunes:title>
      <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
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      <link>https://share.transistor.fm/s/ce37fb43</link>
      <description>
        <![CDATA[<p>Mark Francis speaks with Sue Day MBE, Director of Women’s and Para Football at The Football Association, about the rapid rise of women’s sport, leadership across rugby and football, and what it takes to build a sustainable future for the game.</p><p>Sue shares her unique journey from elite rugby player and England captain to senior leadership roles at KPMG, the RFU, World Rugby, and now the FA. The conversation explores how women’s football is growing at grassroots level, the importance of schools and coaching development, and how the Lionesses’ success is inspiring the next generation.</p><p>They also discuss the long-term vision for women’s football, including the ambition around the 2035 Women’s World Cup, the need for investment, and how communication, culture, and role models shape the future of the sport.</p><p>A powerful conversation on leadership, legacy, and building systems that give equal opportunity for women and girls in sport.</p><p>Sue Day<br>Director of Women’s and Para Football<br>The Football Association</p><p>Connect with Sue Day on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sue-day-1b043210/</p><p>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </description>
      <content:encoded>
        <![CDATA[<p>Mark Francis speaks with Sue Day MBE, Director of Women’s and Para Football at The Football Association, about the rapid rise of women’s sport, leadership across rugby and football, and what it takes to build a sustainable future for the game.</p><p>Sue shares her unique journey from elite rugby player and England captain to senior leadership roles at KPMG, the RFU, World Rugby, and now the FA. The conversation explores how women’s football is growing at grassroots level, the importance of schools and coaching development, and how the Lionesses’ success is inspiring the next generation.</p><p>They also discuss the long-term vision for women’s football, including the ambition around the 2035 Women’s World Cup, the need for investment, and how communication, culture, and role models shape the future of the sport.</p><p>A powerful conversation on leadership, legacy, and building systems that give equal opportunity for women and girls in sport.</p><p>Sue Day<br>Director of Women’s and Para Football<br>The Football Association</p><p>Connect with Sue Day on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sue-day-1b043210/</p><p>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </content:encoded>
      <pubDate>Fri, 19 Jun 2026 13:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
      <author>Mark Francis</author>
      <enclosure url="https://media.transistor.fm/ce37fb43/7a9d6e1a.mp3" length="23233046" type="audio/mpeg"/>
      <itunes:author>Mark Francis</itunes:author>
      <itunes:duration>2899</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>
        <![CDATA[<p>Mark Francis speaks with Sue Day MBE, Director of Women’s and Para Football at The Football Association, about the rapid rise of women’s sport, leadership across rugby and football, and what it takes to build a sustainable future for the game.</p><p>Sue shares her unique journey from elite rugby player and England captain to senior leadership roles at KPMG, the RFU, World Rugby, and now the FA. The conversation explores how women’s football is growing at grassroots level, the importance of schools and coaching development, and how the Lionesses’ success is inspiring the next generation.</p><p>They also discuss the long-term vision for women’s football, including the ambition around the 2035 Women’s World Cup, the need for investment, and how communication, culture, and role models shape the future of the sport.</p><p>A powerful conversation on leadership, legacy, and building systems that give equal opportunity for women and girls in sport.</p><p>Sue Day<br>Director of Women’s and Para Football<br>The Football Association</p><p>Connect with Sue Day on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sue-day-1b043210/</p><p>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </itunes:summary>
      <itunes:keywords>Who's Your Captain, Mark Francis, leadership podcast, executive coaching, business leadership, mentorship, leadership development, transformational leadership, The Uspire Partnership, business strategy, executive thinking, leadership wisdom, professional development, team leadership, business growth, leadership inspiration, coaching insights, purposeful leadership, business performance, organisational transformation, leadership conversations, mentor stories, business success, executive mindset, leadership influence, retail leadership, organisational change</itunes:keywords>
      <itunes:explicit>No</itunes:explicit>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SE01E20 From Everest to Everyday Resilience I Bonita Norris</title>
      <itunes:episode>20</itunes:episode>
      <podcast:episode>20</podcast:episode>
      <itunes:title>SE01E20 From Everest to Everyday Resilience I Bonita Norris</itunes:title>
      <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
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      <description>
        <![CDATA[<p>Mark Francis sits down with Bonita Norris, Motivational Speaker at BONITA NORRIS LTD, for a powerful conversation about resilience, self belief, leadership, motherhood, mental health, and climbing Mount Everest at just 22 years old with no previous mountaineering experience.</p><p>Bonita shares the emotional story behind becoming the youngest British woman to summit Everest at the time, how she overcame an eating disorder, and why success comes from small consistent steps rather than overnight transformation. From surviving the death zone on Everest to becoming an award winning speaker, author, and mother, Bonita opens up about fear, failure, ambition, and finding strength in unexpected places.</p><p>In this inspiring episode, Mark Francis and Bonita Norris explore goal setting, teamwork, trust, personal growth, resilience, public speaking, parenting, mental health, and the lessons the mountains can teach about life. Bonita also reflects on Sherpa culture, human connection in the AI era, and why curiosity and courage matter more than talent.</p><p>A deeply honest conversation packed with life lessons, motivation, and perspective for anyone chasing big goals or navigating personal challenges.</p><p>Connect with Bonita Norris on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bonita-norris-keynote-speaker-15191869/</p><p><br>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </description>
      <content:encoded>
        <![CDATA[<p>Mark Francis sits down with Bonita Norris, Motivational Speaker at BONITA NORRIS LTD, for a powerful conversation about resilience, self belief, leadership, motherhood, mental health, and climbing Mount Everest at just 22 years old with no previous mountaineering experience.</p><p>Bonita shares the emotional story behind becoming the youngest British woman to summit Everest at the time, how she overcame an eating disorder, and why success comes from small consistent steps rather than overnight transformation. From surviving the death zone on Everest to becoming an award winning speaker, author, and mother, Bonita opens up about fear, failure, ambition, and finding strength in unexpected places.</p><p>In this inspiring episode, Mark Francis and Bonita Norris explore goal setting, teamwork, trust, personal growth, resilience, public speaking, parenting, mental health, and the lessons the mountains can teach about life. Bonita also reflects on Sherpa culture, human connection in the AI era, and why curiosity and courage matter more than talent.</p><p>A deeply honest conversation packed with life lessons, motivation, and perspective for anyone chasing big goals or navigating personal challenges.</p><p>Connect with Bonita Norris on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bonita-norris-keynote-speaker-15191869/</p><p><br>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </content:encoded>
      <pubDate>Fri, 12 Jun 2026 13:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
      <author>Mark Francis</author>
      <enclosure url="https://media.transistor.fm/669d0d95/678c4de4.mp3" length="25479675" type="audio/mpeg"/>
      <itunes:author>Mark Francis</itunes:author>
      <itunes:duration>3180</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>
        <![CDATA[<p>Mark Francis sits down with Bonita Norris, Motivational Speaker at BONITA NORRIS LTD, for a powerful conversation about resilience, self belief, leadership, motherhood, mental health, and climbing Mount Everest at just 22 years old with no previous mountaineering experience.</p><p>Bonita shares the emotional story behind becoming the youngest British woman to summit Everest at the time, how she overcame an eating disorder, and why success comes from small consistent steps rather than overnight transformation. From surviving the death zone on Everest to becoming an award winning speaker, author, and mother, Bonita opens up about fear, failure, ambition, and finding strength in unexpected places.</p><p>In this inspiring episode, Mark Francis and Bonita Norris explore goal setting, teamwork, trust, personal growth, resilience, public speaking, parenting, mental health, and the lessons the mountains can teach about life. Bonita also reflects on Sherpa culture, human connection in the AI era, and why curiosity and courage matter more than talent.</p><p>A deeply honest conversation packed with life lessons, motivation, and perspective for anyone chasing big goals or navigating personal challenges.</p><p>Connect with Bonita Norris on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/bonita-norris-keynote-speaker-15191869/</p><p><br>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </itunes:summary>
      <itunes:keywords>Who's Your Captain, Mark Francis, leadership podcast, executive coaching, business leadership, mentorship, leadership development, transformational leadership, The Uspire Partnership, business strategy, executive thinking, leadership wisdom, professional development, team leadership, business growth, leadership inspiration, coaching insights, purposeful leadership, business performance, organisational transformation, leadership conversations, mentor stories, business success, executive mindset, leadership influence, retail leadership, organisational change</itunes:keywords>
      <itunes:explicit>No</itunes:explicit>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SE01E19 How to Build a Lasting Legacy in Business I Paul David Munnelly </title>
      <itunes:episode>17</itunes:episode>
      <podcast:episode>17</podcast:episode>
      <itunes:title>SE01E19 How to Build a Lasting Legacy in Business I Paul David Munnelly </itunes:title>
      <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
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      <link>https://share.transistor.fm/s/c4065b80</link>
      <description>
        <![CDATA[<p>What does it take to lead a successful family business into a new era of growth, innovation, and long term success?<br>In this episode of Who's Your Captain?, Mark Francis speaks with Paul David Munnelly, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at Munnelly Group, about taking over a highly respected family business and building the next chapter with confidence.<br>Paul shares how Munnelly Group has embraced cultural transformation, expanded into new markets, invested in people, and created a clear long term vision through Target 2030. He explains how strong leadership, innovation, collaboration, and talent development are helping the company grow in a changing construction industry.<br>The conversation also explores succession in family business, creating future leaders, attracting top talent, and why staying still in business is the biggest risk of all.<br>In this episode:<br>Paul David Munnelly leadership journey<br>How Munnelly Group is evolving for the future<br>Family business succession done right<br>Building culture through trust and collaboration<br>Innovation in the construction industry<br>Developing future leaders and retaining talent<br>Why long term vision drives sustainable growth<br>Leadership lessons for CEOs and entrepreneurs<br>If you are a business owner, leader, entrepreneur, or part of a family run company, this episode offers practical insights on growth, leadership, and legacy.<br>Featuring:<br>Paul David Munnelly - Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Munnelly Group<br>Hosted by Mark Francis<br>Connect with Paul David Munnelly on Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/pauldavidmunnelly/ </p><p><br>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </description>
      <content:encoded>
        <![CDATA[<p>What does it take to lead a successful family business into a new era of growth, innovation, and long term success?<br>In this episode of Who's Your Captain?, Mark Francis speaks with Paul David Munnelly, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at Munnelly Group, about taking over a highly respected family business and building the next chapter with confidence.<br>Paul shares how Munnelly Group has embraced cultural transformation, expanded into new markets, invested in people, and created a clear long term vision through Target 2030. He explains how strong leadership, innovation, collaboration, and talent development are helping the company grow in a changing construction industry.<br>The conversation also explores succession in family business, creating future leaders, attracting top talent, and why staying still in business is the biggest risk of all.<br>In this episode:<br>Paul David Munnelly leadership journey<br>How Munnelly Group is evolving for the future<br>Family business succession done right<br>Building culture through trust and collaboration<br>Innovation in the construction industry<br>Developing future leaders and retaining talent<br>Why long term vision drives sustainable growth<br>Leadership lessons for CEOs and entrepreneurs<br>If you are a business owner, leader, entrepreneur, or part of a family run company, this episode offers practical insights on growth, leadership, and legacy.<br>Featuring:<br>Paul David Munnelly - Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Munnelly Group<br>Hosted by Mark Francis<br>Connect with Paul David Munnelly on Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/pauldavidmunnelly/ </p><p><br>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </content:encoded>
      <pubDate>Fri, 05 Jun 2026 13:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
      <author>Mark Francis</author>
      <enclosure url="https://media.transistor.fm/c4065b80/c5a778a4.mp3" length="23057622" type="audio/mpeg"/>
      <itunes:author>Mark Francis</itunes:author>
      <itunes:duration>2877</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>
        <![CDATA[<p>What does it take to lead a successful family business into a new era of growth, innovation, and long term success?<br>In this episode of Who's Your Captain?, Mark Francis speaks with Paul David Munnelly, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at Munnelly Group, about taking over a highly respected family business and building the next chapter with confidence.<br>Paul shares how Munnelly Group has embraced cultural transformation, expanded into new markets, invested in people, and created a clear long term vision through Target 2030. He explains how strong leadership, innovation, collaboration, and talent development are helping the company grow in a changing construction industry.<br>The conversation also explores succession in family business, creating future leaders, attracting top talent, and why staying still in business is the biggest risk of all.<br>In this episode:<br>Paul David Munnelly leadership journey<br>How Munnelly Group is evolving for the future<br>Family business succession done right<br>Building culture through trust and collaboration<br>Innovation in the construction industry<br>Developing future leaders and retaining talent<br>Why long term vision drives sustainable growth<br>Leadership lessons for CEOs and entrepreneurs<br>If you are a business owner, leader, entrepreneur, or part of a family run company, this episode offers practical insights on growth, leadership, and legacy.<br>Featuring:<br>Paul David Munnelly - Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Munnelly Group<br>Hosted by Mark Francis<br>Connect with Paul David Munnelly on Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/pauldavidmunnelly/ </p><p><br>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </itunes:summary>
      <itunes:keywords>Who's Your Captain, Mark Francis, leadership podcast, executive coaching, business leadership, mentorship, leadership development, transformational leadership, The Uspire Partnership, business strategy, executive thinking, leadership wisdom, professional development, team leadership, business growth, leadership inspiration, coaching insights, purposeful leadership, business performance, organisational transformation, leadership conversations, mentor stories, business success, executive mindset, leadership influence, retail leadership, organisational change</itunes:keywords>
      <itunes:explicit>No</itunes:explicit>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SE01E18 Powering the Electric Future I Steven Meersman</title>
      <itunes:episode>18</itunes:episode>
      <podcast:episode>18</podcast:episode>
      <itunes:title>SE01E18 Powering the Electric Future I Steven Meersman</itunes:title>
      <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
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      <link>https://share.transistor.fm/s/f077b79b</link>
      <description>
        <![CDATA[<p>In this episode of Who’s Your Captain, Mark Francis sits down with Steven Meersman, Founder Director of Zenobe Energy Limited, to explore one of the most important shifts happening in global energy today.<br>Steven shares the story behind Zenobe Energy Limited, from its early days connecting batteries to the UK grid to becoming a major force in electrifying transport systems across multiple countries. What started as a bold idea between three co-founders has now grown into a business operating at the intersection of renewable energy, battery storage, and electric mobility.<br>Mark Francis and Steven Meersman discuss how Zenobe Energy Limited is helping solve real-world infrastructure challenges, from stabilising energy grids to enabling electric bus fleets and reusing second-life batteries in powerful new ways. Steven also breaks down how the company works closely with transport operators, including Big Bus Tours, to make electrification practical, scalable, and financially sustainable.<br>The conversation goes deeper into leadership, decision-making, and what it takes to scale a mission-driven business. Steven reflects on building high-performing teams, raising capital step by step, and the importance of combining engineering, finance, and operational expertise to drive meaningful change.<br>Key themes include renewable energy innovation, battery storage systems, electric bus infrastructure, grid stability, and the future of electrification across transport and heavy industry. Steven also shares insights from expanding Zenobe Energy Limited into international markets including Australia, Europe, and North America.<br>This episode offers a clear look at how long-term thinking, disciplined execution, and strong leadership can turn a complex energy challenge into a global opportunity.<br>Host: Mark Francis<br>Guest: Steven Meersman, Founder Director Zenobe Energy Limited</p><p>Connect with Steven Meersman on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevencgmeersman/ </p><p><br>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </description>
      <content:encoded>
        <![CDATA[<p>In this episode of Who’s Your Captain, Mark Francis sits down with Steven Meersman, Founder Director of Zenobe Energy Limited, to explore one of the most important shifts happening in global energy today.<br>Steven shares the story behind Zenobe Energy Limited, from its early days connecting batteries to the UK grid to becoming a major force in electrifying transport systems across multiple countries. What started as a bold idea between three co-founders has now grown into a business operating at the intersection of renewable energy, battery storage, and electric mobility.<br>Mark Francis and Steven Meersman discuss how Zenobe Energy Limited is helping solve real-world infrastructure challenges, from stabilising energy grids to enabling electric bus fleets and reusing second-life batteries in powerful new ways. Steven also breaks down how the company works closely with transport operators, including Big Bus Tours, to make electrification practical, scalable, and financially sustainable.<br>The conversation goes deeper into leadership, decision-making, and what it takes to scale a mission-driven business. Steven reflects on building high-performing teams, raising capital step by step, and the importance of combining engineering, finance, and operational expertise to drive meaningful change.<br>Key themes include renewable energy innovation, battery storage systems, electric bus infrastructure, grid stability, and the future of electrification across transport and heavy industry. Steven also shares insights from expanding Zenobe Energy Limited into international markets including Australia, Europe, and North America.<br>This episode offers a clear look at how long-term thinking, disciplined execution, and strong leadership can turn a complex energy challenge into a global opportunity.<br>Host: Mark Francis<br>Guest: Steven Meersman, Founder Director Zenobe Energy Limited</p><p>Connect with Steven Meersman on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevencgmeersman/ </p><p><br>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </content:encoded>
      <pubDate>Fri, 29 May 2026 13:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
      <author>Mark Francis</author>
      <enclosure url="https://media.transistor.fm/f077b79b/7c30b6fc.mp3" length="24375638" type="audio/mpeg"/>
      <itunes:author>Mark Francis</itunes:author>
      <itunes:duration>3042</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>
        <![CDATA[<p>In this episode of Who’s Your Captain, Mark Francis sits down with Steven Meersman, Founder Director of Zenobe Energy Limited, to explore one of the most important shifts happening in global energy today.<br>Steven shares the story behind Zenobe Energy Limited, from its early days connecting batteries to the UK grid to becoming a major force in electrifying transport systems across multiple countries. What started as a bold idea between three co-founders has now grown into a business operating at the intersection of renewable energy, battery storage, and electric mobility.<br>Mark Francis and Steven Meersman discuss how Zenobe Energy Limited is helping solve real-world infrastructure challenges, from stabilising energy grids to enabling electric bus fleets and reusing second-life batteries in powerful new ways. Steven also breaks down how the company works closely with transport operators, including Big Bus Tours, to make electrification practical, scalable, and financially sustainable.<br>The conversation goes deeper into leadership, decision-making, and what it takes to scale a mission-driven business. Steven reflects on building high-performing teams, raising capital step by step, and the importance of combining engineering, finance, and operational expertise to drive meaningful change.<br>Key themes include renewable energy innovation, battery storage systems, electric bus infrastructure, grid stability, and the future of electrification across transport and heavy industry. Steven also shares insights from expanding Zenobe Energy Limited into international markets including Australia, Europe, and North America.<br>This episode offers a clear look at how long-term thinking, disciplined execution, and strong leadership can turn a complex energy challenge into a global opportunity.<br>Host: Mark Francis<br>Guest: Steven Meersman, Founder Director Zenobe Energy Limited</p><p>Connect with Steven Meersman on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevencgmeersman/ </p><p><br>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </itunes:summary>
      <itunes:keywords>Who's Your Captain, Mark Francis, leadership podcast, executive coaching, business leadership, mentorship, leadership development, transformational leadership, The Uspire Partnership, business strategy, executive thinking, leadership wisdom, professional development, team leadership, business growth, leadership inspiration, coaching insights, purposeful leadership, business performance, organisational transformation, leadership conversations, mentor stories, business success, executive mindset, leadership influence, retail leadership, organisational change</itunes:keywords>
      <itunes:explicit>No</itunes:explicit>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SE01E17 How to Build a High Growth Team Culture That Wins I Brian Dyer</title>
      <itunes:episode>16</itunes:episode>
      <podcast:episode>16</podcast:episode>
      <itunes:title>SE01E17 How to Build a High Growth Team Culture That Wins I Brian Dyer</itunes:title>
      <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
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      <link>https://share.transistor.fm/s/1dd31025</link>
      <description>
        <![CDATA[<p>What does it take to build a company culture where growth, innovation, and accountability happen every day? </p><p>In this episode of Who's Your Captain?, Mark Francis speaks with Brian Dyer, President at Sterling ATM, about leadership that works in the real world. From leading in the trenches with employees to building systems that drive momentum, Brian shares the exact mindset and methods that helped transform Sterling ATM into a dynamic, growth focused business. </p><p>Brian explains how daily team huddles create ownership, improve communication, and uncover new ideas across the company. He also breaks down his Four Beasts leadership framework - Lion, Owl, Cheetah, and Honey Badger - and how each mindset helps leaders take action, solve problems, and stay resilient under pressure. </p><p>The conversation also explores how Sterling ATM successfully expanded into new markets, developed innovative products, and created a workplace culture where every employee contributes to growth. </p><p>In this episode: </p><p>Brian Dyer leadership philosophy </p><p>How Sterling ATM drives growth through culture </p><p>The power of daily huddles in business </p><p>Building accountability and feedback systems </p><p>Innovation and product expansion strategies </p><p>Leadership lessons for CEOs and managers </p><p>How to create resilient high performing teams </p><p>If you are a business owner, CEO, entrepreneur, or team leader looking for practical leadership strategies, this episode delivers real insights you can apply immediately. </p><p>Featuring: </p><p>Brian Dyer - President at Sterling ATM </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis </p><p><br></p><p>Connect with Brian Dyer on Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/briandyer/ </p><p>#BrianDyer #SterlingATM #MarkFrancis #Leadership #BusinessGrowth #TeamCulture #Entrepreneurship #CEO #Management #Innovation </p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. </p><p>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team </p><p><br></p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/ </p><p>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com </p><p>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K </p><p><br></p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms: </p><p>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0 </p><p>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706 </p><p>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain </p><p><br></p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p><br></p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship. </p><p><br></p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </description>
      <content:encoded>
        <![CDATA[<p>What does it take to build a company culture where growth, innovation, and accountability happen every day? </p><p>In this episode of Who's Your Captain?, Mark Francis speaks with Brian Dyer, President at Sterling ATM, about leadership that works in the real world. From leading in the trenches with employees to building systems that drive momentum, Brian shares the exact mindset and methods that helped transform Sterling ATM into a dynamic, growth focused business. </p><p>Brian explains how daily team huddles create ownership, improve communication, and uncover new ideas across the company. He also breaks down his Four Beasts leadership framework - Lion, Owl, Cheetah, and Honey Badger - and how each mindset helps leaders take action, solve problems, and stay resilient under pressure. </p><p>The conversation also explores how Sterling ATM successfully expanded into new markets, developed innovative products, and created a workplace culture where every employee contributes to growth. </p><p>In this episode: </p><p>Brian Dyer leadership philosophy </p><p>How Sterling ATM drives growth through culture </p><p>The power of daily huddles in business </p><p>Building accountability and feedback systems </p><p>Innovation and product expansion strategies </p><p>Leadership lessons for CEOs and managers </p><p>How to create resilient high performing teams </p><p>If you are a business owner, CEO, entrepreneur, or team leader looking for practical leadership strategies, this episode delivers real insights you can apply immediately. </p><p>Featuring: </p><p>Brian Dyer - President at Sterling ATM </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis </p><p><br></p><p>Connect with Brian Dyer on Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/briandyer/ </p><p>#BrianDyer #SterlingATM #MarkFrancis #Leadership #BusinessGrowth #TeamCulture #Entrepreneurship #CEO #Management #Innovation </p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. </p><p>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team </p><p><br></p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/ </p><p>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com </p><p>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K </p><p><br></p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms: </p><p>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0 </p><p>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706 </p><p>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain </p><p><br></p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p><br></p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship. </p><p><br></p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </content:encoded>
      <pubDate>Fri, 22 May 2026 13:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
      <author>Mark Francis</author>
      <enclosure url="https://media.transistor.fm/1dd31025/cecdf045.mp3" length="23692291" type="audio/mpeg"/>
      <itunes:author>Mark Francis</itunes:author>
      <itunes:duration>2957</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>
        <![CDATA[<p>What does it take to build a company culture where growth, innovation, and accountability happen every day? </p><p>In this episode of Who's Your Captain?, Mark Francis speaks with Brian Dyer, President at Sterling ATM, about leadership that works in the real world. From leading in the trenches with employees to building systems that drive momentum, Brian shares the exact mindset and methods that helped transform Sterling ATM into a dynamic, growth focused business. </p><p>Brian explains how daily team huddles create ownership, improve communication, and uncover new ideas across the company. He also breaks down his Four Beasts leadership framework - Lion, Owl, Cheetah, and Honey Badger - and how each mindset helps leaders take action, solve problems, and stay resilient under pressure. </p><p>The conversation also explores how Sterling ATM successfully expanded into new markets, developed innovative products, and created a workplace culture where every employee contributes to growth. </p><p>In this episode: </p><p>Brian Dyer leadership philosophy </p><p>How Sterling ATM drives growth through culture </p><p>The power of daily huddles in business </p><p>Building accountability and feedback systems </p><p>Innovation and product expansion strategies </p><p>Leadership lessons for CEOs and managers </p><p>How to create resilient high performing teams </p><p>If you are a business owner, CEO, entrepreneur, or team leader looking for practical leadership strategies, this episode delivers real insights you can apply immediately. </p><p>Featuring: </p><p>Brian Dyer - President at Sterling ATM </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis </p><p><br></p><p>Connect with Brian Dyer on Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/briandyer/ </p><p>#BrianDyer #SterlingATM #MarkFrancis #Leadership #BusinessGrowth #TeamCulture #Entrepreneurship #CEO #Management #Innovation </p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p><br></p><p>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly. </p><p>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team </p><p><br></p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/ </p><p>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com </p><p>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K </p><p><br></p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms: </p><p>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0 </p><p>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706 </p><p>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain </p><p><br></p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p><br></p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship. </p><p><br></p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </itunes:summary>
      <itunes:keywords>Who's Your Captain, Mark Francis, leadership podcast, executive coaching, business leadership, mentorship, leadership development, transformational leadership, The Uspire Partnership, business strategy, executive thinking, leadership wisdom, professional development, team leadership, business growth, leadership inspiration, coaching insights, purposeful leadership, business performance, organisational transformation, leadership conversations, mentor stories, business success, executive mindset, leadership influence, retail leadership, organisational change</itunes:keywords>
      <itunes:explicit>No</itunes:explicit>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SE01E16 Lead with belief build winning teams I Simon Hawtrey-Coombs</title>
      <itunes:episode>13</itunes:episode>
      <podcast:episode>13</podcast:episode>
      <itunes:title>SE01E16 Lead with belief build winning teams I Simon Hawtrey-Coombs</itunes:title>
      <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
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      <link>https://share.transistor.fm/s/97b7c172</link>
      <description>
        <![CDATA[<p>In this episode of Who's Your Captain, Mark Francis is joined by Simon Hawtrey-Coombs, Head of Happiness, Co-Founder @ peer2peer Boards &amp; President of Bournemouth Rugby Football Club, for a powerful conversation on leadership, belief, and building high-performing teams.<br>Simon shares his journey as an entrepreneurial leader across industries including property, logistics, and sports. From transforming one of the lowest-performing depots into the number one in the UK, to helping shape a winning culture in rugby, this episode is packed with real-world leadership lessons that actually work.<br>At the heart of this conversation is a simple but powerful idea: great leadership starts with clear expectations, strong belief, and a shared purpose. Simon explains how success leaves clues and how small habits, like showing up early or setting higher standards, can create extraordinary results over time.<br>You’ll also hear insights on:<br> • How to lead change and build a culture of ownership<br> • Why handing over responsibility creates stronger teams<br> • The role of belief in entrepreneurship and risk-taking<br> • How to remove negative energy and build winning environments<br> • Why systems and processes are essential for scaling<br> • Lessons from elite teams like the All Blacks and top football clubs<br> • How peer2peer Boards help business leaders grow through shared experience<br>Simon also shares a powerful perspective on life, success, and slowing down to focus on what truly matters. This episode is not just about business, it’s about leadership in every area of life.</p><p>Connect with Simon Hawtrey-Coombs on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/simonhawtrey-coombs/ <br>If you found value in this episode, like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations with leaders who are shaping the future.<br>#MarkFrancis #WhosYourCaptain #Leadership #Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #PeerToPeer #RugbyLeadership #TeamBuilding #Mindset #StartupLife</p><p>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </description>
      <content:encoded>
        <![CDATA[<p>In this episode of Who's Your Captain, Mark Francis is joined by Simon Hawtrey-Coombs, Head of Happiness, Co-Founder @ peer2peer Boards &amp; President of Bournemouth Rugby Football Club, for a powerful conversation on leadership, belief, and building high-performing teams.<br>Simon shares his journey as an entrepreneurial leader across industries including property, logistics, and sports. From transforming one of the lowest-performing depots into the number one in the UK, to helping shape a winning culture in rugby, this episode is packed with real-world leadership lessons that actually work.<br>At the heart of this conversation is a simple but powerful idea: great leadership starts with clear expectations, strong belief, and a shared purpose. Simon explains how success leaves clues and how small habits, like showing up early or setting higher standards, can create extraordinary results over time.<br>You’ll also hear insights on:<br> • How to lead change and build a culture of ownership<br> • Why handing over responsibility creates stronger teams<br> • The role of belief in entrepreneurship and risk-taking<br> • How to remove negative energy and build winning environments<br> • Why systems and processes are essential for scaling<br> • Lessons from elite teams like the All Blacks and top football clubs<br> • How peer2peer Boards help business leaders grow through shared experience<br>Simon also shares a powerful perspective on life, success, and slowing down to focus on what truly matters. This episode is not just about business, it’s about leadership in every area of life.</p><p>Connect with Simon Hawtrey-Coombs on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/simonhawtrey-coombs/ <br>If you found value in this episode, like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations with leaders who are shaping the future.<br>#MarkFrancis #WhosYourCaptain #Leadership #Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #PeerToPeer #RugbyLeadership #TeamBuilding #Mindset #StartupLife</p><p>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </content:encoded>
      <pubDate>Fri, 15 May 2026 13:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
      <author>Mark Francis</author>
      <enclosure url="https://media.transistor.fm/97b7c172/f168337f.mp3" length="21951697" type="audio/mpeg"/>
      <itunes:author>Mark Francis</itunes:author>
      <itunes:duration>2739</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>
        <![CDATA[<p>In this episode of Who's Your Captain, Mark Francis is joined by Simon Hawtrey-Coombs, Head of Happiness, Co-Founder @ peer2peer Boards &amp; President of Bournemouth Rugby Football Club, for a powerful conversation on leadership, belief, and building high-performing teams.<br>Simon shares his journey as an entrepreneurial leader across industries including property, logistics, and sports. From transforming one of the lowest-performing depots into the number one in the UK, to helping shape a winning culture in rugby, this episode is packed with real-world leadership lessons that actually work.<br>At the heart of this conversation is a simple but powerful idea: great leadership starts with clear expectations, strong belief, and a shared purpose. Simon explains how success leaves clues and how small habits, like showing up early or setting higher standards, can create extraordinary results over time.<br>You’ll also hear insights on:<br> • How to lead change and build a culture of ownership<br> • Why handing over responsibility creates stronger teams<br> • The role of belief in entrepreneurship and risk-taking<br> • How to remove negative energy and build winning environments<br> • Why systems and processes are essential for scaling<br> • Lessons from elite teams like the All Blacks and top football clubs<br> • How peer2peer Boards help business leaders grow through shared experience<br>Simon also shares a powerful perspective on life, success, and slowing down to focus on what truly matters. This episode is not just about business, it’s about leadership in every area of life.</p><p>Connect with Simon Hawtrey-Coombs on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/simonhawtrey-coombs/ <br>If you found value in this episode, like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations with leaders who are shaping the future.<br>#MarkFrancis #WhosYourCaptain #Leadership #Entrepreneurship #BusinessGrowth #PeerToPeer #RugbyLeadership #TeamBuilding #Mindset #StartupLife</p><p>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </itunes:summary>
      <itunes:keywords>Who's Your Captain, Mark Francis, leadership podcast, executive coaching, business leadership, mentorship, leadership development, transformational leadership, The Uspire Partnership, business strategy, executive thinking, leadership wisdom, professional development, team leadership, business growth, leadership inspiration, coaching insights, purposeful leadership, business performance, organisational transformation, leadership conversations, mentor stories, business success, executive mindset, leadership influence, retail leadership, organisational change</itunes:keywords>
      <itunes:explicit>No</itunes:explicit>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SE01E15 Scaling in a volatile market I Jay Zapata </title>
      <itunes:episode>15</itunes:episode>
      <podcast:episode>15</podcast:episode>
      <itunes:title>SE01E15 Scaling in a volatile market I Jay Zapata </itunes:title>
      <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
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      <link>https://share.transistor.fm/s/a27946c8</link>
      <description>
        <![CDATA[<p>In this episode of Who's Your Captain, Mark Francis sits down with Jay Zapata, CEO &amp; Co-Founder of Satokie, for a deep dive into leadership, scaling a startup, and building in a fast-moving industry.<br>Jay shares the journey of growing Satokie from a small startup into a rapidly expanding data center and infrastructure company. From Bitcoin mining and colocation services to AI and high-performance computing, this conversation explores how the company is evolving and where the future is headed.<br>The discussion goes beyond business strategy and gets into what leadership really looks like inside a growing organization. Jay talks openly about learning through failure, building strong teams, and creating a culture where people take ownership and grow into leadership roles themselves.<br>Mark Francis brings his leadership framework into the conversation, covering vision, mobilization, development, and enablement. Together, they unpack how founders can scale not just their business, but their people and systems.<br>You’ll also hear insights on:<br> • How Satokie expanded from Bitcoin infrastructure into broader data center services<br> • Why powered land and energy access are becoming critical assets<br> • The importance of systems, processes, and communication in scaling<br> • Building leaders from within through structured development plans<br> • Balancing growth, capital, and operational efficiency<br> • What it takes to lead in a volatile and fast-changing environment<br>This episode is packed with practical takeaways for founders, operators, and anyone interested in leadership, startups, and the future of data infrastructure.</p><p>Connect with Jay Zapata on Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jay-zapata-117286b8/ <br>If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations with leaders shaping the future.<br>#MarkFrancis #WhosYourCaptain #JayZapata #Satokie #Leadership #StartupGrowth #Entrepreneurship #DataCenters #BitcoinMining #AIInfrastructure #BusinessPodcast</p><p>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </description>
      <content:encoded>
        <![CDATA[<p>In this episode of Who's Your Captain, Mark Francis sits down with Jay Zapata, CEO &amp; Co-Founder of Satokie, for a deep dive into leadership, scaling a startup, and building in a fast-moving industry.<br>Jay shares the journey of growing Satokie from a small startup into a rapidly expanding data center and infrastructure company. From Bitcoin mining and colocation services to AI and high-performance computing, this conversation explores how the company is evolving and where the future is headed.<br>The discussion goes beyond business strategy and gets into what leadership really looks like inside a growing organization. Jay talks openly about learning through failure, building strong teams, and creating a culture where people take ownership and grow into leadership roles themselves.<br>Mark Francis brings his leadership framework into the conversation, covering vision, mobilization, development, and enablement. Together, they unpack how founders can scale not just their business, but their people and systems.<br>You’ll also hear insights on:<br> • How Satokie expanded from Bitcoin infrastructure into broader data center services<br> • Why powered land and energy access are becoming critical assets<br> • The importance of systems, processes, and communication in scaling<br> • Building leaders from within through structured development plans<br> • Balancing growth, capital, and operational efficiency<br> • What it takes to lead in a volatile and fast-changing environment<br>This episode is packed with practical takeaways for founders, operators, and anyone interested in leadership, startups, and the future of data infrastructure.</p><p>Connect with Jay Zapata on Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jay-zapata-117286b8/ <br>If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations with leaders shaping the future.<br>#MarkFrancis #WhosYourCaptain #JayZapata #Satokie #Leadership #StartupGrowth #Entrepreneurship #DataCenters #BitcoinMining #AIInfrastructure #BusinessPodcast</p><p>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </content:encoded>
      <pubDate>Fri, 08 May 2026 13:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
      <author>Mark Francis</author>
      <enclosure url="https://media.transistor.fm/a27946c8/650b8594.mp3" length="22786136" type="audio/mpeg"/>
      <itunes:author>Mark Francis</itunes:author>
      <itunes:duration>2843</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>
        <![CDATA[<p>In this episode of Who's Your Captain, Mark Francis sits down with Jay Zapata, CEO &amp; Co-Founder of Satokie, for a deep dive into leadership, scaling a startup, and building in a fast-moving industry.<br>Jay shares the journey of growing Satokie from a small startup into a rapidly expanding data center and infrastructure company. From Bitcoin mining and colocation services to AI and high-performance computing, this conversation explores how the company is evolving and where the future is headed.<br>The discussion goes beyond business strategy and gets into what leadership really looks like inside a growing organization. Jay talks openly about learning through failure, building strong teams, and creating a culture where people take ownership and grow into leadership roles themselves.<br>Mark Francis brings his leadership framework into the conversation, covering vision, mobilization, development, and enablement. Together, they unpack how founders can scale not just their business, but their people and systems.<br>You’ll also hear insights on:<br> • How Satokie expanded from Bitcoin infrastructure into broader data center services<br> • Why powered land and energy access are becoming critical assets<br> • The importance of systems, processes, and communication in scaling<br> • Building leaders from within through structured development plans<br> • Balancing growth, capital, and operational efficiency<br> • What it takes to lead in a volatile and fast-changing environment<br>This episode is packed with practical takeaways for founders, operators, and anyone interested in leadership, startups, and the future of data infrastructure.</p><p>Connect with Jay Zapata on Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/in/jay-zapata-117286b8/ <br>If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, comment, and subscribe for more conversations with leaders shaping the future.<br>#MarkFrancis #WhosYourCaptain #JayZapata #Satokie #Leadership #StartupGrowth #Entrepreneurship #DataCenters #BitcoinMining #AIInfrastructure #BusinessPodcast</p><p>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </itunes:summary>
      <itunes:keywords>Who's Your Captain, Mark Francis, leadership podcast, executive coaching, business leadership, mentorship, leadership development, transformational leadership, The Uspire Partnership, business strategy, executive thinking, leadership wisdom, professional development, team leadership, business growth, leadership inspiration, coaching insights, purposeful leadership, business performance, organisational transformation, leadership conversations, mentor stories, business success, executive mindset, leadership influence, retail leadership, organisational change</itunes:keywords>
      <itunes:explicit>No</itunes:explicit>
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    <item>
      <title>SE01E14 Floating Wind Energy and the Future of Offshore Power I Dominique Roddier</title>
      <itunes:episode>14</itunes:episode>
      <podcast:episode>14</podcast:episode>
      <itunes:title>SE01E14 Floating Wind Energy and the Future of Offshore Power I Dominique Roddier</itunes:title>
      <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
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      <link>https://share.transistor.fm/s/0d3e186e</link>
      <description>
        <![CDATA[<p>In this episode of Who’s Your Captain, Mark Francis sits down with Dominique Roddier, CEO at Ocergy, to explore the future of offshore and floating wind energy and what it really takes to scale renewable power on a global level.<br>Dominique shares his journey from engineering and offshore oil and gas roots to leading innovation in floating wind technology. He explains how energy from the ocean works, why floating wind farms are becoming a major breakthrough, and how industrialisation, cost reduction, and long term investment models are shaping the clean energy transition.<br>The conversation goes deep into how large offshore projects are developed, from securing site control and permits to financing and building multi-gigawatt infrastructure. Dominique also breaks down the realities of capacity factors, grid contracts, and why offshore wind is becoming increasingly competitive with traditional energy sources.<br>Beyond technology and business, this episode highlights leadership, resilience, and purpose. Dominique speaks openly about teamwork, decision making, and what it really means to lead in a complex and fast moving industry that has a direct impact on the planet’s future.<br>Mark and Dominique also explore the human side of leadership, passion driven careers, and how innovation in renewable energy is creating long term value not just for companies, but for society as a whole.<br>If you are interested in renewable energy, offshore wind, engineering, sustainability, or leadership in complex industries, this conversation offers valuable insight into where the future of global energy is heading.<br>Connect with Dominique Roddier on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dominique-roddier-691499/</p><p>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </description>
      <content:encoded>
        <![CDATA[<p>In this episode of Who’s Your Captain, Mark Francis sits down with Dominique Roddier, CEO at Ocergy, to explore the future of offshore and floating wind energy and what it really takes to scale renewable power on a global level.<br>Dominique shares his journey from engineering and offshore oil and gas roots to leading innovation in floating wind technology. He explains how energy from the ocean works, why floating wind farms are becoming a major breakthrough, and how industrialisation, cost reduction, and long term investment models are shaping the clean energy transition.<br>The conversation goes deep into how large offshore projects are developed, from securing site control and permits to financing and building multi-gigawatt infrastructure. Dominique also breaks down the realities of capacity factors, grid contracts, and why offshore wind is becoming increasingly competitive with traditional energy sources.<br>Beyond technology and business, this episode highlights leadership, resilience, and purpose. Dominique speaks openly about teamwork, decision making, and what it really means to lead in a complex and fast moving industry that has a direct impact on the planet’s future.<br>Mark and Dominique also explore the human side of leadership, passion driven careers, and how innovation in renewable energy is creating long term value not just for companies, but for society as a whole.<br>If you are interested in renewable energy, offshore wind, engineering, sustainability, or leadership in complex industries, this conversation offers valuable insight into where the future of global energy is heading.<br>Connect with Dominique Roddier on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dominique-roddier-691499/</p><p>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </content:encoded>
      <pubDate>Fri, 01 May 2026 13:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
      <author>Mark Francis</author>
      <enclosure url="https://media.transistor.fm/0d3e186e/e6099526.mp3" length="22879371" type="audio/mpeg"/>
      <itunes:author>Mark Francis</itunes:author>
      <itunes:duration>2855</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>
        <![CDATA[<p>In this episode of Who’s Your Captain, Mark Francis sits down with Dominique Roddier, CEO at Ocergy, to explore the future of offshore and floating wind energy and what it really takes to scale renewable power on a global level.<br>Dominique shares his journey from engineering and offshore oil and gas roots to leading innovation in floating wind technology. He explains how energy from the ocean works, why floating wind farms are becoming a major breakthrough, and how industrialisation, cost reduction, and long term investment models are shaping the clean energy transition.<br>The conversation goes deep into how large offshore projects are developed, from securing site control and permits to financing and building multi-gigawatt infrastructure. Dominique also breaks down the realities of capacity factors, grid contracts, and why offshore wind is becoming increasingly competitive with traditional energy sources.<br>Beyond technology and business, this episode highlights leadership, resilience, and purpose. Dominique speaks openly about teamwork, decision making, and what it really means to lead in a complex and fast moving industry that has a direct impact on the planet’s future.<br>Mark and Dominique also explore the human side of leadership, passion driven careers, and how innovation in renewable energy is creating long term value not just for companies, but for society as a whole.<br>If you are interested in renewable energy, offshore wind, engineering, sustainability, or leadership in complex industries, this conversation offers valuable insight into where the future of global energy is heading.<br>Connect with Dominique Roddier on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/dominique-roddier-691499/</p><p>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </itunes:summary>
      <itunes:keywords>Who's Your Captain, Mark Francis, leadership podcast, executive coaching, business leadership, mentorship, leadership development, transformational leadership, The Uspire Partnership, business strategy, executive thinking, leadership wisdom, professional development, team leadership, business growth, leadership inspiration, coaching insights, purposeful leadership, business performance, organisational transformation, leadership conversations, mentor stories, business success, executive mindset, leadership influence, retail leadership, organisational change</itunes:keywords>
      <itunes:explicit>No</itunes:explicit>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SE01E14 Leadership Secrets for 2026 I Neil Mullarkey </title>
      <itunes:episode>19</itunes:episode>
      <podcast:episode>19</podcast:episode>
      <itunes:title>SE01E14 Leadership Secrets for 2026 I Neil Mullarkey </itunes:title>
      <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
      <guid isPermaLink="false">8a296e69-133b-4e17-b1ee-7343190f5cbe</guid>
      <link>https://share.transistor.fm/s/44198ea2</link>
      <description>
        <![CDATA[<p>Neil Mullarkey joins Mark Francis for a high energy conversation on leadership, communication, confidence, and the skills needed to succeed in 2026. As Chief of Improvyourbiz Ltd, Neil shares practical lessons from decades of experience in improv, business coaching, and helping professionals become stronger presenters and better leaders.</p><p>In this episode, Mark Francis and Neil Mullarkey discuss how great leaders communicate clearly, why storytelling is more powerful than slides, how to overcome fear of public speaking, and why curiosity is one of the most valuable leadership traits today.</p><p>You will learn:<br>• How to become a more confident speaker<br>• Why improv helps leaders think faster<br>• The secret to engaging presentations<br>• How to build stronger workplace relationships<br>• Why adaptability matters in business<br>• Leadership lessons for 2026<br>• How to connect with any audience</p><p><br>This episode is packed with insights for business owners, managers, entrepreneurs, and anyone looking to improve communication and leadership skills.<br>Guest: Neil Mullarkey<br>Host: Mark Francis<br>Company: Improvyourbiz Ltd<br>Role: Chief</p><p>Subscribe for more interviews on leadership, business growth, and success strategies.</p><p>Connect with Neil Mullarkey  on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/neilmullarkey/</p><p><br>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </description>
      <content:encoded>
        <![CDATA[<p>Neil Mullarkey joins Mark Francis for a high energy conversation on leadership, communication, confidence, and the skills needed to succeed in 2026. As Chief of Improvyourbiz Ltd, Neil shares practical lessons from decades of experience in improv, business coaching, and helping professionals become stronger presenters and better leaders.</p><p>In this episode, Mark Francis and Neil Mullarkey discuss how great leaders communicate clearly, why storytelling is more powerful than slides, how to overcome fear of public speaking, and why curiosity is one of the most valuable leadership traits today.</p><p>You will learn:<br>• How to become a more confident speaker<br>• Why improv helps leaders think faster<br>• The secret to engaging presentations<br>• How to build stronger workplace relationships<br>• Why adaptability matters in business<br>• Leadership lessons for 2026<br>• How to connect with any audience</p><p><br>This episode is packed with insights for business owners, managers, entrepreneurs, and anyone looking to improve communication and leadership skills.<br>Guest: Neil Mullarkey<br>Host: Mark Francis<br>Company: Improvyourbiz Ltd<br>Role: Chief</p><p>Subscribe for more interviews on leadership, business growth, and success strategies.</p><p>Connect with Neil Mullarkey  on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/neilmullarkey/</p><p><br>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </content:encoded>
      <pubDate>Fri, 24 Apr 2026 13:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
      <author>Mark Francis</author>
      <enclosure url="https://media.transistor.fm/44198ea2/4e9bf7d8.mp3" length="23451321" type="audio/mpeg"/>
      <itunes:author>Mark Francis</itunes:author>
      <itunes:duration>2926</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>
        <![CDATA[<p>Neil Mullarkey joins Mark Francis for a high energy conversation on leadership, communication, confidence, and the skills needed to succeed in 2026. As Chief of Improvyourbiz Ltd, Neil shares practical lessons from decades of experience in improv, business coaching, and helping professionals become stronger presenters and better leaders.</p><p>In this episode, Mark Francis and Neil Mullarkey discuss how great leaders communicate clearly, why storytelling is more powerful than slides, how to overcome fear of public speaking, and why curiosity is one of the most valuable leadership traits today.</p><p>You will learn:<br>• How to become a more confident speaker<br>• Why improv helps leaders think faster<br>• The secret to engaging presentations<br>• How to build stronger workplace relationships<br>• Why adaptability matters in business<br>• Leadership lessons for 2026<br>• How to connect with any audience</p><p><br>This episode is packed with insights for business owners, managers, entrepreneurs, and anyone looking to improve communication and leadership skills.<br>Guest: Neil Mullarkey<br>Host: Mark Francis<br>Company: Improvyourbiz Ltd<br>Role: Chief</p><p>Subscribe for more interviews on leadership, business growth, and success strategies.</p><p>Connect with Neil Mullarkey  on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/neilmullarkey/</p><p><br>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </itunes:summary>
      <itunes:keywords>Who's Your Captain, Mark Francis, leadership podcast, executive coaching, business leadership, mentorship, leadership development, transformational leadership, The Uspire Partnership, business strategy, executive thinking, leadership wisdom, professional development, team leadership, business growth, leadership inspiration, coaching insights, purposeful leadership, business performance, organisational transformation, leadership conversations, mentor stories, business success, executive mindset, leadership influence, retail leadership, organisational change</itunes:keywords>
      <itunes:explicit>No</itunes:explicit>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SE01E12 Leading Multiple stakeholders | Sonia Dunlop</title>
      <itunes:episode>12</itunes:episode>
      <podcast:episode>12</podcast:episode>
      <itunes:title>SE01E12 Leading Multiple stakeholders | Sonia Dunlop</itunes:title>
      <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
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      <link>https://share.transistor.fm/s/20390324</link>
      <description>
        <![CDATA[<p>What does it take to lead a global movement with a team of just 15 to 20 people? Sonia Dunlop, CEO of the Global Solar Council, joins Mark Francis to unpack the art of influencing without authority across governments, multilateral institutions, industry giants, and philanthropic funders spanning every continent. From her early days as a press officer to five years in the European Parliament and senior roles in solar policy across Europe, Sonia brings rare depth to a conversation about leadership at the highest level of global diplomacy.<br>The Global Solar Council's mission is to deploy 8 terawatts of solar PV roughly 25 billion solar panels  by the end of this decade. Solar is now the fastest and cheapest growing source of electricity in the history of civilization, with 80% of all new electricity generation capacity added to the global grid last year coming from solar. Sonia explains how a small, highly motivated team drives change at that scale: through shuttle diplomacy, radical delegation, strategic task forces in 190 political capitals, and media influence that ensures the solar industry speaks with one voice to the world.</p><p>Key takeaways:<br>Influencing stakeholders who don't have to listen to you requires building long-term relationships grounded in mutual interest, not authority<br>Delegate everything that doesn't have to be you being a bottleneck kills momentum in a small, high-impact team<br>Done is better than perfect: trust your people and resist the urge to micromanage<br>Get media training especially if you're a woman; there is specific, valuable training for how women come across in interviews and public speaking<br>Three theories of change: industry task forces, building national and regional association capacity, and strategic media presence<br>Solar's growth is now driven by pure economics, not climate politics — it is simply the cheapest electricity ever produced<br>A clear 10-year business plan with outcome-based KPIs is non-negotiable, even for not-for-profits<br>The biggest macro challenge is adapting strategy to a rapidly shifting geopolitical landscape while staying politically neutral across all 190 countries<br>Inspiring people around a shared mission is the core competency for any trade association leader<br>Energy security and national security are now part of the solar story a powerful message in an increasingly tense world</p><p>Connect with Sonia Dunlop:<br>LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sonia-dunlop-62868354<br>Website: globalsolarcouncil.org<br>To learn more about the Global Solar Council and the solar and battery storage revolution, visit globalsolarcouncil.org.</p><p><br>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </description>
      <content:encoded>
        <![CDATA[<p>What does it take to lead a global movement with a team of just 15 to 20 people? Sonia Dunlop, CEO of the Global Solar Council, joins Mark Francis to unpack the art of influencing without authority across governments, multilateral institutions, industry giants, and philanthropic funders spanning every continent. From her early days as a press officer to five years in the European Parliament and senior roles in solar policy across Europe, Sonia brings rare depth to a conversation about leadership at the highest level of global diplomacy.<br>The Global Solar Council's mission is to deploy 8 terawatts of solar PV roughly 25 billion solar panels  by the end of this decade. Solar is now the fastest and cheapest growing source of electricity in the history of civilization, with 80% of all new electricity generation capacity added to the global grid last year coming from solar. Sonia explains how a small, highly motivated team drives change at that scale: through shuttle diplomacy, radical delegation, strategic task forces in 190 political capitals, and media influence that ensures the solar industry speaks with one voice to the world.</p><p>Key takeaways:<br>Influencing stakeholders who don't have to listen to you requires building long-term relationships grounded in mutual interest, not authority<br>Delegate everything that doesn't have to be you being a bottleneck kills momentum in a small, high-impact team<br>Done is better than perfect: trust your people and resist the urge to micromanage<br>Get media training especially if you're a woman; there is specific, valuable training for how women come across in interviews and public speaking<br>Three theories of change: industry task forces, building national and regional association capacity, and strategic media presence<br>Solar's growth is now driven by pure economics, not climate politics — it is simply the cheapest electricity ever produced<br>A clear 10-year business plan with outcome-based KPIs is non-negotiable, even for not-for-profits<br>The biggest macro challenge is adapting strategy to a rapidly shifting geopolitical landscape while staying politically neutral across all 190 countries<br>Inspiring people around a shared mission is the core competency for any trade association leader<br>Energy security and national security are now part of the solar story a powerful message in an increasingly tense world</p><p>Connect with Sonia Dunlop:<br>LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sonia-dunlop-62868354<br>Website: globalsolarcouncil.org<br>To learn more about the Global Solar Council and the solar and battery storage revolution, visit globalsolarcouncil.org.</p><p><br>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </content:encoded>
      <pubDate>Fri, 17 Apr 2026 13:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
      <author>Mark Francis</author>
      <enclosure url="https://media.transistor.fm/20390324/f6739e4f.mp3" length="23070768" type="audio/mpeg"/>
      <itunes:author>Mark Francis</itunes:author>
      <itunes:duration>2879</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>
        <![CDATA[<p>What does it take to lead a global movement with a team of just 15 to 20 people? Sonia Dunlop, CEO of the Global Solar Council, joins Mark Francis to unpack the art of influencing without authority across governments, multilateral institutions, industry giants, and philanthropic funders spanning every continent. From her early days as a press officer to five years in the European Parliament and senior roles in solar policy across Europe, Sonia brings rare depth to a conversation about leadership at the highest level of global diplomacy.<br>The Global Solar Council's mission is to deploy 8 terawatts of solar PV roughly 25 billion solar panels  by the end of this decade. Solar is now the fastest and cheapest growing source of electricity in the history of civilization, with 80% of all new electricity generation capacity added to the global grid last year coming from solar. Sonia explains how a small, highly motivated team drives change at that scale: through shuttle diplomacy, radical delegation, strategic task forces in 190 political capitals, and media influence that ensures the solar industry speaks with one voice to the world.</p><p>Key takeaways:<br>Influencing stakeholders who don't have to listen to you requires building long-term relationships grounded in mutual interest, not authority<br>Delegate everything that doesn't have to be you being a bottleneck kills momentum in a small, high-impact team<br>Done is better than perfect: trust your people and resist the urge to micromanage<br>Get media training especially if you're a woman; there is specific, valuable training for how women come across in interviews and public speaking<br>Three theories of change: industry task forces, building national and regional association capacity, and strategic media presence<br>Solar's growth is now driven by pure economics, not climate politics — it is simply the cheapest electricity ever produced<br>A clear 10-year business plan with outcome-based KPIs is non-negotiable, even for not-for-profits<br>The biggest macro challenge is adapting strategy to a rapidly shifting geopolitical landscape while staying politically neutral across all 190 countries<br>Inspiring people around a shared mission is the core competency for any trade association leader<br>Energy security and national security are now part of the solar story a powerful message in an increasingly tense world</p><p>Connect with Sonia Dunlop:<br>LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sonia-dunlop-62868354<br>Website: globalsolarcouncil.org<br>To learn more about the Global Solar Council and the solar and battery storage revolution, visit globalsolarcouncil.org.</p><p><br>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </itunes:summary>
      <itunes:keywords>Who's Your Captain, Mark Francis, leadership podcast, executive coaching, business leadership, mentorship, leadership development, transformational leadership, The Uspire Partnership, business strategy, executive thinking, leadership wisdom, professional development, team leadership, business growth, leadership inspiration, coaching insights, purposeful leadership, business performance, organisational transformation, leadership conversations, mentor stories, business success, executive mindset, leadership influence, retail leadership, organisational change</itunes:keywords>
      <itunes:explicit>No</itunes:explicit>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SE01E11 WRITE YOUR BOOK | Brenda Dempsey</title>
      <itunes:episode>11</itunes:episode>
      <podcast:episode>11</podcast:episode>
      <itunes:title>SE01E11 WRITE YOUR BOOK | Brenda Dempsey</itunes:title>
      <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
      <guid isPermaLink="false">934ab871-d710-416d-9801-6403da6787ab</guid>
      <link>https://share.transistor.fm/s/a8059312</link>
      <description>
        <![CDATA[<p>Mark Francis sits down with his own publisher, Brenda Dempsey, founder of Book Brilliance Publishing, for an honest conversation about what it really takes to write a book that lasts. Brenda brings over 25 years in education, a coaching background, and hard-won life experience including raising four children alone while homeless in her final year of university to a publishing approach that is anything but surface level. She talks about the moment she stepped into her businesswoman identity, why owning your numbers matters as much as owning your story, and what separates books that leave a legacy from books that gather dust.<br>For anyone who has ever thought about writing a book but doesn't know where to start, this episode is the conversation to hear. Brenda breaks down her holistic, values-led process from deep foundation work and purpose-setting before a single word is written, to the role of storytelling, structure, and editorial precision in producing something that genuinely sounds like you. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a leader, or simply someone with a story worth telling, Brenda makes a compelling case for why your voice matters and why the world needs to hear it.<br>Key takeaways:</p><p>Start with your why before you write a single word purpose and values are the foundation of every great book<br>Know your numbers: passion alone doesn't build a business, financial literacy is non-negotiable<br>Writing a book builds credibility, authority, and legacy that no LinkedIn profile or CV can replicate<br>Your values aren't a head exercise  they come from the gut, and they run through every page of your book<br>Show don't tell applies in non-fiction too  take your reader on a journey, don't just dump what you know<br>A book is five or more years of re-purposable content hiding in plain sight<br>You don't need a degree or perfect credentials to write a book  you need lived experience and the lessons from it<br>It's never too late: Brenda launched Book Brilliance Publishing at 62<br>The byproduct of writing a book is clarity, confidence, and a deeper connection to your own purpose<br>"I can" are the two most powerful words on the planet and the best books are built on that belief</p><p>Connect with Brenda Dempsey:<br>LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/brendadempsey<br>Website: bookbrilliancepublishing.com<br>Ready to write your book? Visit bookbrilliancepublishing.com to find out how Book Brilliance Publishing can take you from idea to published author.</p><p><br>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </description>
      <content:encoded>
        <![CDATA[<p>Mark Francis sits down with his own publisher, Brenda Dempsey, founder of Book Brilliance Publishing, for an honest conversation about what it really takes to write a book that lasts. Brenda brings over 25 years in education, a coaching background, and hard-won life experience including raising four children alone while homeless in her final year of university to a publishing approach that is anything but surface level. She talks about the moment she stepped into her businesswoman identity, why owning your numbers matters as much as owning your story, and what separates books that leave a legacy from books that gather dust.<br>For anyone who has ever thought about writing a book but doesn't know where to start, this episode is the conversation to hear. Brenda breaks down her holistic, values-led process from deep foundation work and purpose-setting before a single word is written, to the role of storytelling, structure, and editorial precision in producing something that genuinely sounds like you. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a leader, or simply someone with a story worth telling, Brenda makes a compelling case for why your voice matters and why the world needs to hear it.<br>Key takeaways:</p><p>Start with your why before you write a single word purpose and values are the foundation of every great book<br>Know your numbers: passion alone doesn't build a business, financial literacy is non-negotiable<br>Writing a book builds credibility, authority, and legacy that no LinkedIn profile or CV can replicate<br>Your values aren't a head exercise  they come from the gut, and they run through every page of your book<br>Show don't tell applies in non-fiction too  take your reader on a journey, don't just dump what you know<br>A book is five or more years of re-purposable content hiding in plain sight<br>You don't need a degree or perfect credentials to write a book  you need lived experience and the lessons from it<br>It's never too late: Brenda launched Book Brilliance Publishing at 62<br>The byproduct of writing a book is clarity, confidence, and a deeper connection to your own purpose<br>"I can" are the two most powerful words on the planet and the best books are built on that belief</p><p>Connect with Brenda Dempsey:<br>LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/brendadempsey<br>Website: bookbrilliancepublishing.com<br>Ready to write your book? Visit bookbrilliancepublishing.com to find out how Book Brilliance Publishing can take you from idea to published author.</p><p><br>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </content:encoded>
      <pubDate>Fri, 10 Apr 2026 13:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
      <author>Mark Francis</author>
      <enclosure url="https://media.transistor.fm/a8059312/91194527.mp3" length="25507458" type="audio/mpeg"/>
      <itunes:author>Mark Francis</itunes:author>
      <itunes:duration>3183</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>
        <![CDATA[<p>Mark Francis sits down with his own publisher, Brenda Dempsey, founder of Book Brilliance Publishing, for an honest conversation about what it really takes to write a book that lasts. Brenda brings over 25 years in education, a coaching background, and hard-won life experience including raising four children alone while homeless in her final year of university to a publishing approach that is anything but surface level. She talks about the moment she stepped into her businesswoman identity, why owning your numbers matters as much as owning your story, and what separates books that leave a legacy from books that gather dust.<br>For anyone who has ever thought about writing a book but doesn't know where to start, this episode is the conversation to hear. Brenda breaks down her holistic, values-led process from deep foundation work and purpose-setting before a single word is written, to the role of storytelling, structure, and editorial precision in producing something that genuinely sounds like you. Whether you're an entrepreneur, a leader, or simply someone with a story worth telling, Brenda makes a compelling case for why your voice matters and why the world needs to hear it.<br>Key takeaways:</p><p>Start with your why before you write a single word purpose and values are the foundation of every great book<br>Know your numbers: passion alone doesn't build a business, financial literacy is non-negotiable<br>Writing a book builds credibility, authority, and legacy that no LinkedIn profile or CV can replicate<br>Your values aren't a head exercise  they come from the gut, and they run through every page of your book<br>Show don't tell applies in non-fiction too  take your reader on a journey, don't just dump what you know<br>A book is five or more years of re-purposable content hiding in plain sight<br>You don't need a degree or perfect credentials to write a book  you need lived experience and the lessons from it<br>It's never too late: Brenda launched Book Brilliance Publishing at 62<br>The byproduct of writing a book is clarity, confidence, and a deeper connection to your own purpose<br>"I can" are the two most powerful words on the planet and the best books are built on that belief</p><p>Connect with Brenda Dempsey:<br>LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/brendadempsey<br>Website: bookbrilliancepublishing.com<br>Ready to write your book? Visit bookbrilliancepublishing.com to find out how Book Brilliance Publishing can take you from idea to published author.</p><p><br>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </itunes:summary>
      <itunes:keywords>Who's Your Captain, Mark Francis, leadership podcast, executive coaching, business leadership, mentorship, leadership development, transformational leadership, The Uspire Partnership, business strategy, executive thinking, leadership wisdom, professional development, team leadership, business growth, leadership inspiration, coaching insights, purposeful leadership, business performance, organisational transformation, leadership conversations, mentor stories, business success, executive mindset, leadership influence, retail leadership, organisational change</itunes:keywords>
      <itunes:explicit>No</itunes:explicit>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SE01E10 MICROHABITS | Small Habits, Massive Results | Professor Damian Hughes</title>
      <itunes:episode>10</itunes:episode>
      <podcast:episode>10</podcast:episode>
      <itunes:title>SE01E10 MICROHABITS | Small Habits, Massive Results | Professor Damian Hughes</itunes:title>
      <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
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      <link>https://share.transistor.fm/s/6873fd10</link>
      <description>
        <![CDATA[<p>Over 20 years after founding Liquid Thinker, Professor Damian Hughes sits down with Mark Francis for a wide-ranging conversation about what really drives high performance — in sport, in business, and in life. From growing up in his father's boxing gym in Moston to working alongside elite coaches in rugby league and co-hosting one of the world's most-listened-to podcasts, Damian has spent his career studying the small, often invisible behaviors that separate good teams from great ones. His latest book, Micro Habits, co-authored with Jake Humphrey, distills the most powerful lessons from 500+ interviews with world-class performers into practical tools anyone can use.<br>Damian shares the story that opens the book — a gut-churning moment on his first day with the England rugby league squad — and uses it to explain why the smallest gestures can either lock someone in or lock them out of a team. He talks about his work with the Warrington Wolves, how four minutes of small talk can spike trust by 60-70%, what FBI hostage negotiator Chris Voss taught him about empathy, and why Kevin Sinfield's approach to encouragement at age 10 became his micro habit for a 20-year career. This is a conversation about people, not programs — and why the stuff that happens in the shadows is where all the real value lives.</p><p>Key takeaways:</p><p><br>Micro habits are small, simple behavioral shifts — not seismic leaps — that compound into significant change over time<br>Clarity of message, consistently applied, is one of the most underrated drivers of team success<br>Culture is made real when a leader drops someone from the team for a values breach, not just a performance one<br>Just four minutes of small talk before a conversation can increase trust and reciprocity by 60-70%<br>Empathy saves time — investing in how someone feels before making demands pays back significantly in negotiation and leadership<br>High performance is subjective: define it for yourself before you try to build it<br>Science elevates the message — anecdote plus evidence is far more persuasive than either alone<br>The best leaders and performers are identical on and off camera — consistency is authenticity<br>Resilience is built through thunderbolt moments, not despite them<br>A flower doesn't bloom all year round — rest and reflection are not optional extras, they are part of the performance cycle</p><p><br>Connect with Professor Damian Hughes:<br>Website: liquidthinker.com<br>High Performance Podcast: available on all major podcast platforms<br>Micro Habits by Damian Hughes and Jake Humphrey is available now in print and audio wherever books are sold.</p>]]>
      </description>
      <content:encoded>
        <![CDATA[<p>Over 20 years after founding Liquid Thinker, Professor Damian Hughes sits down with Mark Francis for a wide-ranging conversation about what really drives high performance — in sport, in business, and in life. From growing up in his father's boxing gym in Moston to working alongside elite coaches in rugby league and co-hosting one of the world's most-listened-to podcasts, Damian has spent his career studying the small, often invisible behaviors that separate good teams from great ones. His latest book, Micro Habits, co-authored with Jake Humphrey, distills the most powerful lessons from 500+ interviews with world-class performers into practical tools anyone can use.<br>Damian shares the story that opens the book — a gut-churning moment on his first day with the England rugby league squad — and uses it to explain why the smallest gestures can either lock someone in or lock them out of a team. He talks about his work with the Warrington Wolves, how four minutes of small talk can spike trust by 60-70%, what FBI hostage negotiator Chris Voss taught him about empathy, and why Kevin Sinfield's approach to encouragement at age 10 became his micro habit for a 20-year career. This is a conversation about people, not programs — and why the stuff that happens in the shadows is where all the real value lives.</p><p>Key takeaways:</p><p><br>Micro habits are small, simple behavioral shifts — not seismic leaps — that compound into significant change over time<br>Clarity of message, consistently applied, is one of the most underrated drivers of team success<br>Culture is made real when a leader drops someone from the team for a values breach, not just a performance one<br>Just four minutes of small talk before a conversation can increase trust and reciprocity by 60-70%<br>Empathy saves time — investing in how someone feels before making demands pays back significantly in negotiation and leadership<br>High performance is subjective: define it for yourself before you try to build it<br>Science elevates the message — anecdote plus evidence is far more persuasive than either alone<br>The best leaders and performers are identical on and off camera — consistency is authenticity<br>Resilience is built through thunderbolt moments, not despite them<br>A flower doesn't bloom all year round — rest and reflection are not optional extras, they are part of the performance cycle</p><p><br>Connect with Professor Damian Hughes:<br>Website: liquidthinker.com<br>High Performance Podcast: available on all major podcast platforms<br>Micro Habits by Damian Hughes and Jake Humphrey is available now in print and audio wherever books are sold.</p>]]>
      </content:encoded>
      <pubDate>Fri, 03 Apr 2026 13:00:00 +0100</pubDate>
      <author>Mark Francis</author>
      <enclosure url="https://media.transistor.fm/6873fd10/48f83d28.mp3" length="25474476" type="audio/mpeg"/>
      <itunes:author>Mark Francis</itunes:author>
      <itunes:duration>3179</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>
        <![CDATA[<p>Over 20 years after founding Liquid Thinker, Professor Damian Hughes sits down with Mark Francis for a wide-ranging conversation about what really drives high performance — in sport, in business, and in life. From growing up in his father's boxing gym in Moston to working alongside elite coaches in rugby league and co-hosting one of the world's most-listened-to podcasts, Damian has spent his career studying the small, often invisible behaviors that separate good teams from great ones. His latest book, Micro Habits, co-authored with Jake Humphrey, distills the most powerful lessons from 500+ interviews with world-class performers into practical tools anyone can use.<br>Damian shares the story that opens the book — a gut-churning moment on his first day with the England rugby league squad — and uses it to explain why the smallest gestures can either lock someone in or lock them out of a team. He talks about his work with the Warrington Wolves, how four minutes of small talk can spike trust by 60-70%, what FBI hostage negotiator Chris Voss taught him about empathy, and why Kevin Sinfield's approach to encouragement at age 10 became his micro habit for a 20-year career. This is a conversation about people, not programs — and why the stuff that happens in the shadows is where all the real value lives.</p><p>Key takeaways:</p><p><br>Micro habits are small, simple behavioral shifts — not seismic leaps — that compound into significant change over time<br>Clarity of message, consistently applied, is one of the most underrated drivers of team success<br>Culture is made real when a leader drops someone from the team for a values breach, not just a performance one<br>Just four minutes of small talk before a conversation can increase trust and reciprocity by 60-70%<br>Empathy saves time — investing in how someone feels before making demands pays back significantly in negotiation and leadership<br>High performance is subjective: define it for yourself before you try to build it<br>Science elevates the message — anecdote plus evidence is far more persuasive than either alone<br>The best leaders and performers are identical on and off camera — consistency is authenticity<br>Resilience is built through thunderbolt moments, not despite them<br>A flower doesn't bloom all year round — rest and reflection are not optional extras, they are part of the performance cycle</p><p><br>Connect with Professor Damian Hughes:<br>Website: liquidthinker.com<br>High Performance Podcast: available on all major podcast platforms<br>Micro Habits by Damian Hughes and Jake Humphrey is available now in print and audio wherever books are sold.</p>]]>
      </itunes:summary>
      <itunes:keywords>Who's Your Captain, Mark Francis, leadership podcast, executive coaching, business leadership, mentorship, leadership development, transformational leadership, The Uspire Partnership, business strategy, executive thinking, leadership wisdom, professional development, team leadership, business growth, leadership inspiration, coaching insights, purposeful leadership, business performance, organisational transformation, leadership conversations, mentor stories, business success, executive mindset, leadership influence, retail leadership, organisational change</itunes:keywords>
      <itunes:explicit>No</itunes:explicit>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SE01E09 Low Ego, High Want | Lucas Wilson</title>
      <itunes:episode>9</itunes:episode>
      <podcast:episode>9</podcast:episode>
      <itunes:title>SE01E09 Low Ego, High Want | Lucas Wilson</itunes:title>
      <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
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      <link>https://share.transistor.fm/s/b8cc4ad8</link>
      <description>
        <![CDATA[<p>Two years into turning around a struggling SaaS business, Signpost CEO Lucas Wilson sits down with Mark Francis to give himself an honest performance review — and sporadically, it's a D. In this episode, Lucas breaks down what it really takes to lead a company through resource constraints, cultural rebuilding, and customer-first reinvention. From his roots in an immigrant entrepreneurial family to an early career at Angie's List and executive roles at Homebase and EZ Texting, Lucas brings hard-won perspective on what separates leaders who deliver from those who stall.<br>Lucas introduces a leadership philosophy he calls "low ego, high want" — and unpacks why the most damaging ego in any organisation isn't arrogance, it's fear. He shares how Signpost went from a quarterly-initiative-churning business chasing investment to a focused home services communication platform serving roofers, plumbers, HVAC techs, and pest control operators across the US. With a current customer base of over 1,500 and a target of 5,000 by end of 2028, Lucas explains how getting brutally honest with churned customers, narrowing the product focus, and building a culture obsessed with the customer's customer has put Signpost back on a growth curve.<br>Key takeaways:</p><p>Low ego, high want: the best teammates don't care who gets the win — they care that the team wins<br>There are two types of damaging ego: arrogance and fear — and fear-based ego is harder to fix<br>The first move after taking over was calling thousands of churned customers to understand why they left<br>Narrowing focus to a core customer (home service pros) and a core problem (communication) was the turning point<br>AI should be invisible — embedded in the product, not announced as an initiative<br>Equitable opportunity matters more than equal treatment — people need different tools, styles, and timing<br>Patience is a leadership skill: farming teaches you that everything has stages and you can't skip to the end<br>Top three tips for driving change: be passionate about what you're solving, lose both types of ego, and know your end goal</p><p>Connect with Lucas Wilson:<br>LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lukewilsonsignpostceo<br>Website: signpost.com<br>If you're a home service business owner looking to streamline your customer communication, visit signpost.com to get started.</p><p><br>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </description>
      <content:encoded>
        <![CDATA[<p>Two years into turning around a struggling SaaS business, Signpost CEO Lucas Wilson sits down with Mark Francis to give himself an honest performance review — and sporadically, it's a D. In this episode, Lucas breaks down what it really takes to lead a company through resource constraints, cultural rebuilding, and customer-first reinvention. From his roots in an immigrant entrepreneurial family to an early career at Angie's List and executive roles at Homebase and EZ Texting, Lucas brings hard-won perspective on what separates leaders who deliver from those who stall.<br>Lucas introduces a leadership philosophy he calls "low ego, high want" — and unpacks why the most damaging ego in any organisation isn't arrogance, it's fear. He shares how Signpost went from a quarterly-initiative-churning business chasing investment to a focused home services communication platform serving roofers, plumbers, HVAC techs, and pest control operators across the US. With a current customer base of over 1,500 and a target of 5,000 by end of 2028, Lucas explains how getting brutally honest with churned customers, narrowing the product focus, and building a culture obsessed with the customer's customer has put Signpost back on a growth curve.<br>Key takeaways:</p><p>Low ego, high want: the best teammates don't care who gets the win — they care that the team wins<br>There are two types of damaging ego: arrogance and fear — and fear-based ego is harder to fix<br>The first move after taking over was calling thousands of churned customers to understand why they left<br>Narrowing focus to a core customer (home service pros) and a core problem (communication) was the turning point<br>AI should be invisible — embedded in the product, not announced as an initiative<br>Equitable opportunity matters more than equal treatment — people need different tools, styles, and timing<br>Patience is a leadership skill: farming teaches you that everything has stages and you can't skip to the end<br>Top three tips for driving change: be passionate about what you're solving, lose both types of ego, and know your end goal</p><p>Connect with Lucas Wilson:<br>LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lukewilsonsignpostceo<br>Website: signpost.com<br>If you're a home service business owner looking to streamline your customer communication, visit signpost.com to get started.</p><p><br>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </content:encoded>
      <pubDate>Fri, 27 Mar 2026 13:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>Mark Francis</author>
      <enclosure url="https://media.transistor.fm/b8cc4ad8/79f1ef42.mp3" length="21378439" type="audio/mpeg"/>
      <itunes:author>Mark Francis</itunes:author>
      <itunes:duration>2667</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>
        <![CDATA[<p>Two years into turning around a struggling SaaS business, Signpost CEO Lucas Wilson sits down with Mark Francis to give himself an honest performance review — and sporadically, it's a D. In this episode, Lucas breaks down what it really takes to lead a company through resource constraints, cultural rebuilding, and customer-first reinvention. From his roots in an immigrant entrepreneurial family to an early career at Angie's List and executive roles at Homebase and EZ Texting, Lucas brings hard-won perspective on what separates leaders who deliver from those who stall.<br>Lucas introduces a leadership philosophy he calls "low ego, high want" — and unpacks why the most damaging ego in any organisation isn't arrogance, it's fear. He shares how Signpost went from a quarterly-initiative-churning business chasing investment to a focused home services communication platform serving roofers, plumbers, HVAC techs, and pest control operators across the US. With a current customer base of over 1,500 and a target of 5,000 by end of 2028, Lucas explains how getting brutally honest with churned customers, narrowing the product focus, and building a culture obsessed with the customer's customer has put Signpost back on a growth curve.<br>Key takeaways:</p><p>Low ego, high want: the best teammates don't care who gets the win — they care that the team wins<br>There are two types of damaging ego: arrogance and fear — and fear-based ego is harder to fix<br>The first move after taking over was calling thousands of churned customers to understand why they left<br>Narrowing focus to a core customer (home service pros) and a core problem (communication) was the turning point<br>AI should be invisible — embedded in the product, not announced as an initiative<br>Equitable opportunity matters more than equal treatment — people need different tools, styles, and timing<br>Patience is a leadership skill: farming teaches you that everything has stages and you can't skip to the end<br>Top three tips for driving change: be passionate about what you're solving, lose both types of ego, and know your end goal</p><p>Connect with Lucas Wilson:<br>LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lukewilsonsignpostceo<br>Website: signpost.com<br>If you're a home service business owner looking to streamline your customer communication, visit signpost.com to get started.</p><p><br>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </itunes:summary>
      <itunes:keywords>Who's Your Captain, Mark Francis, leadership podcast, executive coaching, business leadership, mentorship, leadership development, transformational leadership, The Uspire Partnership, business strategy, executive thinking, leadership wisdom, professional development, team leadership, business growth, leadership inspiration, coaching insights, purposeful leadership, business performance, organisational transformation, leadership conversations, mentor stories, business success, executive mindset, leadership influence, retail leadership, organisational change</itunes:keywords>
      <itunes:explicit>No</itunes:explicit>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SE01E08 The Psychology of Trading: Ego, Risk &amp; Resilience | James Brodie</title>
      <itunes:episode>8</itunes:episode>
      <podcast:episode>8</podcast:episode>
      <itunes:title>SE01E08 The Psychology of Trading: Ego, Risk &amp; Resilience | James Brodie</itunes:title>
      <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
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      <link>https://share.transistor.fm/s/74714281</link>
      <description>
        <![CDATA[<p>In this episode, host Mark Francis sits down with experienced trader and educator James Brodie to explore the often-overlooked psychological side of trading.</p><p>While many people focus on charts, numbers, and strategies, successful trading is just as much about mindset, discipline, and emotional control. James shares insights from years of experience working with traders and explains why ego management, resilience, and risk control are critical for long-term success in financial markets.</p><p>The discussion dives into how new traders are trained, the importance of psychological resilience during market volatility, and why developing the right mindset can be the difference between success and failure in a trading career.</p><p>James also explains how AI is beginning to play a role in trading education, helping traders analyze data, improve strategies, and accelerate learning while still maintaining human judgment and decision-making.</p><p>Whether you're an aspiring trader, finance professional, or someone interested in trading psychology, this conversation provides practical insights into what it really takes to succeed in the markets.</p><p>What You’ll Learn in This Episode</p><p>Why psychology plays a major role in trading success</p><p>How traders manage ego and emotions under pressure</p><p>The importance of resilience during losses and market volatility</p><p>How induction training prepares new traders for real markets</p><p>Why risk management is essential to avoid major losses</p><p>How AI is transforming trading education and strategy development</p><p>Tips for building a long-term career in trading</p><p>Key Takeaways</p><p>Trading is not only about technical skills — mindset, discipline, and emotional control are equally important. Traders who understand their biases, manage risk effectively, and continue learning are far more likely to succeed over the long term.</p><p>Timestamps</p><p>00:00 Introduction to James Brodie and His Career<br>02:43 The Role of Psychology in Trading<br>05:43 Training New Traders: Induction and Development<br>12:34 The Importance of Resilience in Trading<br>19:25 Measuring Psychological Growth and Performance<br>23:30 Creating a Positive Team Environment in Trading<br>26:30 The Importance of Cohorts in Trading<br>27:21 Developing Managers in Trading<br>28:13 Real-World Trading Experience<br>28:53 Engaging Training Methods<br>29:39 Continuous Self-Education<br>31:27 Integrating AI in Trading Education<br>35:46 The Reality of Trading Careers<br>39:42 Understanding Psychological Factors in Trading<br>43:26 Ongoing Learning for Experienced Traders<br>44:46 The Role of Psychology in Trading<br>48:04 Top Tips for Aspiring Traders</p><p><br>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </description>
      <content:encoded>
        <![CDATA[<p>In this episode, host Mark Francis sits down with experienced trader and educator James Brodie to explore the often-overlooked psychological side of trading.</p><p>While many people focus on charts, numbers, and strategies, successful trading is just as much about mindset, discipline, and emotional control. James shares insights from years of experience working with traders and explains why ego management, resilience, and risk control are critical for long-term success in financial markets.</p><p>The discussion dives into how new traders are trained, the importance of psychological resilience during market volatility, and why developing the right mindset can be the difference between success and failure in a trading career.</p><p>James also explains how AI is beginning to play a role in trading education, helping traders analyze data, improve strategies, and accelerate learning while still maintaining human judgment and decision-making.</p><p>Whether you're an aspiring trader, finance professional, or someone interested in trading psychology, this conversation provides practical insights into what it really takes to succeed in the markets.</p><p>What You’ll Learn in This Episode</p><p>Why psychology plays a major role in trading success</p><p>How traders manage ego and emotions under pressure</p><p>The importance of resilience during losses and market volatility</p><p>How induction training prepares new traders for real markets</p><p>Why risk management is essential to avoid major losses</p><p>How AI is transforming trading education and strategy development</p><p>Tips for building a long-term career in trading</p><p>Key Takeaways</p><p>Trading is not only about technical skills — mindset, discipline, and emotional control are equally important. Traders who understand their biases, manage risk effectively, and continue learning are far more likely to succeed over the long term.</p><p>Timestamps</p><p>00:00 Introduction to James Brodie and His Career<br>02:43 The Role of Psychology in Trading<br>05:43 Training New Traders: Induction and Development<br>12:34 The Importance of Resilience in Trading<br>19:25 Measuring Psychological Growth and Performance<br>23:30 Creating a Positive Team Environment in Trading<br>26:30 The Importance of Cohorts in Trading<br>27:21 Developing Managers in Trading<br>28:13 Real-World Trading Experience<br>28:53 Engaging Training Methods<br>29:39 Continuous Self-Education<br>31:27 Integrating AI in Trading Education<br>35:46 The Reality of Trading Careers<br>39:42 Understanding Psychological Factors in Trading<br>43:26 Ongoing Learning for Experienced Traders<br>44:46 The Role of Psychology in Trading<br>48:04 Top Tips for Aspiring Traders</p><p><br>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </content:encoded>
      <pubDate>Fri, 20 Mar 2026 13:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>Mark Francis</author>
      <enclosure url="https://media.transistor.fm/74714281/0aae0b30.mp3" length="24143688" type="audio/mpeg"/>
      <itunes:author>Mark Francis</itunes:author>
      <itunes:duration>3013</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>
        <![CDATA[<p>In this episode, host Mark Francis sits down with experienced trader and educator James Brodie to explore the often-overlooked psychological side of trading.</p><p>While many people focus on charts, numbers, and strategies, successful trading is just as much about mindset, discipline, and emotional control. James shares insights from years of experience working with traders and explains why ego management, resilience, and risk control are critical for long-term success in financial markets.</p><p>The discussion dives into how new traders are trained, the importance of psychological resilience during market volatility, and why developing the right mindset can be the difference between success and failure in a trading career.</p><p>James also explains how AI is beginning to play a role in trading education, helping traders analyze data, improve strategies, and accelerate learning while still maintaining human judgment and decision-making.</p><p>Whether you're an aspiring trader, finance professional, or someone interested in trading psychology, this conversation provides practical insights into what it really takes to succeed in the markets.</p><p>What You’ll Learn in This Episode</p><p>Why psychology plays a major role in trading success</p><p>How traders manage ego and emotions under pressure</p><p>The importance of resilience during losses and market volatility</p><p>How induction training prepares new traders for real markets</p><p>Why risk management is essential to avoid major losses</p><p>How AI is transforming trading education and strategy development</p><p>Tips for building a long-term career in trading</p><p>Key Takeaways</p><p>Trading is not only about technical skills — mindset, discipline, and emotional control are equally important. Traders who understand their biases, manage risk effectively, and continue learning are far more likely to succeed over the long term.</p><p>Timestamps</p><p>00:00 Introduction to James Brodie and His Career<br>02:43 The Role of Psychology in Trading<br>05:43 Training New Traders: Induction and Development<br>12:34 The Importance of Resilience in Trading<br>19:25 Measuring Psychological Growth and Performance<br>23:30 Creating a Positive Team Environment in Trading<br>26:30 The Importance of Cohorts in Trading<br>27:21 Developing Managers in Trading<br>28:13 Real-World Trading Experience<br>28:53 Engaging Training Methods<br>29:39 Continuous Self-Education<br>31:27 Integrating AI in Trading Education<br>35:46 The Reality of Trading Careers<br>39:42 Understanding Psychological Factors in Trading<br>43:26 Ongoing Learning for Experienced Traders<br>44:46 The Role of Psychology in Trading<br>48:04 Top Tips for Aspiring Traders</p><p><br>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </itunes:summary>
      <itunes:keywords>Who's Your Captain, Mark Francis, leadership podcast, executive coaching, business leadership, mentorship, leadership development, transformational leadership, The Uspire Partnership, business strategy, executive thinking, leadership wisdom, professional development, team leadership, business growth, leadership inspiration, coaching insights, purposeful leadership, business performance, organisational transformation, leadership conversations, mentor stories, business success, executive mindset, leadership influence, retail leadership, organisational change</itunes:keywords>
      <itunes:explicit>No</itunes:explicit>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SE01 E07 CLARITY IS KING | Bruce Martin</title>
      <itunes:episode>7</itunes:episode>
      <podcast:episode>7</podcast:episode>
      <itunes:title>SE01 E07 CLARITY IS KING | Bruce Martin</itunes:title>
      <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
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      <link>https://share.transistor.fm/s/a9e5e487</link>
      <description>
        <![CDATA[<p><br>Bruce Martin didn't set out to be a CEO. He spent years in finance, from Vodafone to private equity, before taking the top job at Tax Systems — and in three and a half years, he's doubled revenue, completed international acquisitions, and led the business through a full SaaS transformation. In this episode, Bruce shares how a competitive sporting mindset shaped his approach to leadership, why clarity is the foundation of everything, and what it really means to build a high performance culture from the inside out.<br>We dig into the practical mechanics of running a PE-backed tech business: OKR frameworks, manager development, decision-making at the coalface, and why transparency with your investors is a non-negotiable. Bruce is refreshingly honest about the nerves of stepping into the CEO seat, the value of good scaffolding early on, and how his thinking on vision and mission shifted completely once he was the one responsible for owning it.<br>Key takeaways:</p><p>Leadership starts with clarity — without direction, empowerment just creates noise<br>High performance is about consistency, speed, quality, and the ability to fail fast and adapt<br>OKRs only work when they're specific, cross-functional dependencies are visible, and success measures are crystal clear at every level<br>The best individual contributors don't always make the best people managers — developing your managers is its own discipline<br>In a PE environment, full transparency with investors is a competitive advantage, not a risk<br>A strong North Star isn't just corporate language — it's what gets you out of bed and keeps the whole business aligned<br>High standards attract the right talent; don't treat them as a harsh thing</p><p>Subscribe to Who's Your Captain for more conversations on leadership, business growth, and what it takes to build high performance teams.<br>Connect with Bruce Martin:<br>https://www.linkedin.com/in/brucemartin6/<br>taxsystems.com</p><p>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </description>
      <content:encoded>
        <![CDATA[<p><br>Bruce Martin didn't set out to be a CEO. He spent years in finance, from Vodafone to private equity, before taking the top job at Tax Systems — and in three and a half years, he's doubled revenue, completed international acquisitions, and led the business through a full SaaS transformation. In this episode, Bruce shares how a competitive sporting mindset shaped his approach to leadership, why clarity is the foundation of everything, and what it really means to build a high performance culture from the inside out.<br>We dig into the practical mechanics of running a PE-backed tech business: OKR frameworks, manager development, decision-making at the coalface, and why transparency with your investors is a non-negotiable. Bruce is refreshingly honest about the nerves of stepping into the CEO seat, the value of good scaffolding early on, and how his thinking on vision and mission shifted completely once he was the one responsible for owning it.<br>Key takeaways:</p><p>Leadership starts with clarity — without direction, empowerment just creates noise<br>High performance is about consistency, speed, quality, and the ability to fail fast and adapt<br>OKRs only work when they're specific, cross-functional dependencies are visible, and success measures are crystal clear at every level<br>The best individual contributors don't always make the best people managers — developing your managers is its own discipline<br>In a PE environment, full transparency with investors is a competitive advantage, not a risk<br>A strong North Star isn't just corporate language — it's what gets you out of bed and keeps the whole business aligned<br>High standards attract the right talent; don't treat them as a harsh thing</p><p>Subscribe to Who's Your Captain for more conversations on leadership, business growth, and what it takes to build high performance teams.<br>Connect with Bruce Martin:<br>https://www.linkedin.com/in/brucemartin6/<br>taxsystems.com</p><p>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </content:encoded>
      <pubDate>Fri, 13 Mar 2026 13:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>Mark Francis</author>
      <enclosure url="https://media.transistor.fm/a9e5e487/5c691805.mp3" length="21694623" type="audio/mpeg"/>
      <itunes:author>Mark Francis</itunes:author>
      <itunes:duration>2707</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>
        <![CDATA[<p><br>Bruce Martin didn't set out to be a CEO. He spent years in finance, from Vodafone to private equity, before taking the top job at Tax Systems — and in three and a half years, he's doubled revenue, completed international acquisitions, and led the business through a full SaaS transformation. In this episode, Bruce shares how a competitive sporting mindset shaped his approach to leadership, why clarity is the foundation of everything, and what it really means to build a high performance culture from the inside out.<br>We dig into the practical mechanics of running a PE-backed tech business: OKR frameworks, manager development, decision-making at the coalface, and why transparency with your investors is a non-negotiable. Bruce is refreshingly honest about the nerves of stepping into the CEO seat, the value of good scaffolding early on, and how his thinking on vision and mission shifted completely once he was the one responsible for owning it.<br>Key takeaways:</p><p>Leadership starts with clarity — without direction, empowerment just creates noise<br>High performance is about consistency, speed, quality, and the ability to fail fast and adapt<br>OKRs only work when they're specific, cross-functional dependencies are visible, and success measures are crystal clear at every level<br>The best individual contributors don't always make the best people managers — developing your managers is its own discipline<br>In a PE environment, full transparency with investors is a competitive advantage, not a risk<br>A strong North Star isn't just corporate language — it's what gets you out of bed and keeps the whole business aligned<br>High standards attract the right talent; don't treat them as a harsh thing</p><p>Subscribe to Who's Your Captain for more conversations on leadership, business growth, and what it takes to build high performance teams.<br>Connect with Bruce Martin:<br>https://www.linkedin.com/in/brucemartin6/<br>taxsystems.com</p><p>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </itunes:summary>
      <itunes:keywords>Who's Your Captain, Mark Francis, leadership podcast, executive coaching, business leadership, mentorship, leadership development, transformational leadership, The Uspire Partnership, business strategy, executive thinking, leadership wisdom, professional development, team leadership, business growth, leadership inspiration, coaching insights, purposeful leadership, business performance, organisational transformation, leadership conversations, mentor stories, business success, executive mindset, leadership influence, retail leadership, organisational change</itunes:keywords>
      <itunes:explicit>No</itunes:explicit>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SE01 E04 Building a Learning Culture as a Team of One | Tovah Wilde</title>
      <itunes:episode>6</itunes:episode>
      <podcast:episode>6</podcast:episode>
      <itunes:title>SE01 E04 Building a Learning Culture as a Team of One | Tovah Wilde</itunes:title>
      <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
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        <![CDATA[<p>What does it actually take to build a learning and development function from scratch in a fast-growing, multi-country organisation – when you're the only person doing it? Tovah Wilde, Head of Learning &amp; Development at Curaleaf International, joins Mark Francis to answer exactly that. With operations spanning the UK, Spain, Portugal, Germany, Canada and beyond, Curaleaf is the global leader in safe and legal medical cannabis. Tovah's challenge is to create a genuine learning culture across all of it, with no team, limited measuring tools, and a population of busy people who always have something more urgent to do than attend a training session.<br>This conversation gets into the practical reality of influencing behaviour change without authority or headcount – from finding early adopters in every market to building manager buy-in one conversation at a time. Tovah shares lessons from a standout programme she built at New Balance using a marketing-led approach to manager electives, why measurement is harder than anyone admits, and how she uses Maslow's hierarchy of needs to explain to leadership why you have to lay foundations before launching the exciting stuff. If you work in L&amp;D, lead a team, or are trying to drive culture change in a growing organisation, this one is for you.</p><p>Key Takeaways:<br>You cannot drive a learning culture alone – you need to identify and cultivate ambassadors at every level and in every market who carry the message when you are not in the room.<br>Managers are the real multiplier in any L&amp;D strategy. Getting them to understand their role in embedding learning – not just signing people up to courses – is what shifts behaviour from event-based to ongoing.<br>Meeting your organisation where it is, rather than where you want it to be, is the difference between a strategy that lands and one that stalls. Build the foundations before going for the ambitious stuff.<br>Giving learners choice in what they develop – rather than mandating the same programme for everyone – dramatically increases engagement and buy-in.<br>Measurement in L&amp;D is genuinely hard, but self-assessment at the start and end of a programme, even with a simple rating scale, gives you something concrete to report back and build on.<br>Leadership role-modelling is not a nice-to-have. When senior people visibly engage with and reference learning, it changes what the wider organisation thinks is normal.<br>The biggest barriers to learning are leadership buy-in beyond lip service and the ever-present "I don't have time" – neither has a silver bullet, but both respond to consistent, clear messaging and good data.<br>Building a learning culture is a marathon, not a sprint. Small, quality interventions that are well-executed beat a flood of initiatives that never fully land.</p><p>Connect with Tovah Wilde:<br>LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tovah-wilde-1357a357<br>Learn more about Curaleaf International:<br>https://www.curaleaf.com</p><p>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </description>
      <content:encoded>
        <![CDATA[<p>What does it actually take to build a learning and development function from scratch in a fast-growing, multi-country organisation – when you're the only person doing it? Tovah Wilde, Head of Learning &amp; Development at Curaleaf International, joins Mark Francis to answer exactly that. With operations spanning the UK, Spain, Portugal, Germany, Canada and beyond, Curaleaf is the global leader in safe and legal medical cannabis. Tovah's challenge is to create a genuine learning culture across all of it, with no team, limited measuring tools, and a population of busy people who always have something more urgent to do than attend a training session.<br>This conversation gets into the practical reality of influencing behaviour change without authority or headcount – from finding early adopters in every market to building manager buy-in one conversation at a time. Tovah shares lessons from a standout programme she built at New Balance using a marketing-led approach to manager electives, why measurement is harder than anyone admits, and how she uses Maslow's hierarchy of needs to explain to leadership why you have to lay foundations before launching the exciting stuff. If you work in L&amp;D, lead a team, or are trying to drive culture change in a growing organisation, this one is for you.</p><p>Key Takeaways:<br>You cannot drive a learning culture alone – you need to identify and cultivate ambassadors at every level and in every market who carry the message when you are not in the room.<br>Managers are the real multiplier in any L&amp;D strategy. Getting them to understand their role in embedding learning – not just signing people up to courses – is what shifts behaviour from event-based to ongoing.<br>Meeting your organisation where it is, rather than where you want it to be, is the difference between a strategy that lands and one that stalls. Build the foundations before going for the ambitious stuff.<br>Giving learners choice in what they develop – rather than mandating the same programme for everyone – dramatically increases engagement and buy-in.<br>Measurement in L&amp;D is genuinely hard, but self-assessment at the start and end of a programme, even with a simple rating scale, gives you something concrete to report back and build on.<br>Leadership role-modelling is not a nice-to-have. When senior people visibly engage with and reference learning, it changes what the wider organisation thinks is normal.<br>The biggest barriers to learning are leadership buy-in beyond lip service and the ever-present "I don't have time" – neither has a silver bullet, but both respond to consistent, clear messaging and good data.<br>Building a learning culture is a marathon, not a sprint. Small, quality interventions that are well-executed beat a flood of initiatives that never fully land.</p><p>Connect with Tovah Wilde:<br>LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tovah-wilde-1357a357<br>Learn more about Curaleaf International:<br>https://www.curaleaf.com</p><p>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </content:encoded>
      <pubDate>Fri, 06 Mar 2026 13:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>Mark Francis</author>
      <enclosure url="https://media.transistor.fm/852e9b88/0d2fe6c4.mp3" length="23602008" type="audio/mpeg"/>
      <itunes:author>Mark Francis</itunes:author>
      <itunes:duration>2945</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>
        <![CDATA[<p>What does it actually take to build a learning and development function from scratch in a fast-growing, multi-country organisation – when you're the only person doing it? Tovah Wilde, Head of Learning &amp; Development at Curaleaf International, joins Mark Francis to answer exactly that. With operations spanning the UK, Spain, Portugal, Germany, Canada and beyond, Curaleaf is the global leader in safe and legal medical cannabis. Tovah's challenge is to create a genuine learning culture across all of it, with no team, limited measuring tools, and a population of busy people who always have something more urgent to do than attend a training session.<br>This conversation gets into the practical reality of influencing behaviour change without authority or headcount – from finding early adopters in every market to building manager buy-in one conversation at a time. Tovah shares lessons from a standout programme she built at New Balance using a marketing-led approach to manager electives, why measurement is harder than anyone admits, and how she uses Maslow's hierarchy of needs to explain to leadership why you have to lay foundations before launching the exciting stuff. If you work in L&amp;D, lead a team, or are trying to drive culture change in a growing organisation, this one is for you.</p><p>Key Takeaways:<br>You cannot drive a learning culture alone – you need to identify and cultivate ambassadors at every level and in every market who carry the message when you are not in the room.<br>Managers are the real multiplier in any L&amp;D strategy. Getting them to understand their role in embedding learning – not just signing people up to courses – is what shifts behaviour from event-based to ongoing.<br>Meeting your organisation where it is, rather than where you want it to be, is the difference between a strategy that lands and one that stalls. Build the foundations before going for the ambitious stuff.<br>Giving learners choice in what they develop – rather than mandating the same programme for everyone – dramatically increases engagement and buy-in.<br>Measurement in L&amp;D is genuinely hard, but self-assessment at the start and end of a programme, even with a simple rating scale, gives you something concrete to report back and build on.<br>Leadership role-modelling is not a nice-to-have. When senior people visibly engage with and reference learning, it changes what the wider organisation thinks is normal.<br>The biggest barriers to learning are leadership buy-in beyond lip service and the ever-present "I don't have time" – neither has a silver bullet, but both respond to consistent, clear messaging and good data.<br>Building a learning culture is a marathon, not a sprint. Small, quality interventions that are well-executed beat a flood of initiatives that never fully land.</p><p>Connect with Tovah Wilde:<br>LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tovah-wilde-1357a357<br>Learn more about Curaleaf International:<br>https://www.curaleaf.com</p><p>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </itunes:summary>
      <itunes:keywords>Who's Your Captain, Mark Francis, leadership podcast, executive coaching, business leadership, mentorship, leadership development, transformational leadership, The Uspire Partnership, business strategy, executive thinking, leadership wisdom, professional development, team leadership, business growth, leadership inspiration, coaching insights, purposeful leadership, business performance, organisational transformation, leadership conversations, mentor stories, business success, executive mindset, leadership influence, retail leadership, organisational change</itunes:keywords>
      <itunes:explicit>No</itunes:explicit>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SE01 E05 CAPTAIN PIVOT: From Supply Chain Head to Global Educator | Dr. Muddassir Ahmed</title>
      <itunes:episode>5</itunes:episode>
      <podcast:episode>5</podcast:episode>
      <itunes:title>SE01 E05 CAPTAIN PIVOT: From Supply Chain Head to Global Educator | Dr. Muddassir Ahmed</itunes:title>
      <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
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      <link>https://share.transistor.fm/s/08f5cba5</link>
      <description>
        <![CDATA[<p>Dr. Muddassir Ahmed spent 17 years working his way up through global supply chain roles – from buyer to divisional supply chain head overseeing a $700M business across Romania, China, Germany and the Middle East. What he kept noticing was the same problem everywhere: most supply chain professionals land in the field by accident, with no real theoretical foundation to draw on when things get complicated. Traditional accreditations existed, but they cost thousands of dollars and hadn't changed in decades. So he built something different. Starting with a $9 blog domain and YouTube videos recorded on a sofa in Karachi, he grew what is now SCMDOJO – one of the world's largest supply chain learning platforms, with 18,000 members, 76 courses across 23 expert contributors, and a community of over 300,000 supply chain professionals.</p><p>In this episode, Mark Francis sits down with Dr. Muddassir to trace the full journey – from practitioner to influencer, from blogger to academy founder, and now into his boldest pivot yet: building SCMDOJO Sensei, an AI-powered supply chain consultant trained exclusively on SCMDOJO's proprietary body of knowledge. They get into the realities of building an online education business, why ChatGPT is not the threat most educators think it is, how multi-agent AI is about to change business operations, and what it actually takes to keep pivoting before the market forces your hand.</p><p><br>Key Takeaways:<br>Most supply chain professionals enter the field by chance rather than design, creating a massive gap between the knowledge they need and what traditional, expensive certifications provide – that gap is exactly what SCMDOJO was built to close.<br>Building an audience takes consistent value creation over years, not months. Dr. Muddassir shared content for three years before seeing any meaningful traction – and that patience is what made the difference.<br>Covid was unusual, not a business model – the real proof of concept was that people will pay for digital learning when it solves a real problem. That insight drove the decision to go full-time with SCMDOJO.<br>Generic AI tools like ChatGPT hallucinate on technical, domain-specific content because they are not trained on deep vertical knowledge. Proprietary AI trained on expert content – like SCMDOJO Sensei – fills that gap in a way public LLMs cannot.<br>Multi-agent AI is the next major shift: rather than querying AI, businesses will deploy chains of agents that act autonomously to send emails, qualify leads, create documents and run workflows while the operator does something else entirely.<br>The biggest challenge in change management is not technology adoption – it is changing user behaviour among people who are too busy and too proud to admit they need a better system.</p><p><br>Visit SCMDOJO: https://www.scmdojo.com<br>Follow SCMDOJO on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/scmdojo</p><p><br>Connect with Dr. Muddassir Ahmed:<br>LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/muddassirism<br>Social media: @muddassirism on Instagram, TikTok, X and Facebook</p><p>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </description>
      <content:encoded>
        <![CDATA[<p>Dr. Muddassir Ahmed spent 17 years working his way up through global supply chain roles – from buyer to divisional supply chain head overseeing a $700M business across Romania, China, Germany and the Middle East. What he kept noticing was the same problem everywhere: most supply chain professionals land in the field by accident, with no real theoretical foundation to draw on when things get complicated. Traditional accreditations existed, but they cost thousands of dollars and hadn't changed in decades. So he built something different. Starting with a $9 blog domain and YouTube videos recorded on a sofa in Karachi, he grew what is now SCMDOJO – one of the world's largest supply chain learning platforms, with 18,000 members, 76 courses across 23 expert contributors, and a community of over 300,000 supply chain professionals.</p><p>In this episode, Mark Francis sits down with Dr. Muddassir to trace the full journey – from practitioner to influencer, from blogger to academy founder, and now into his boldest pivot yet: building SCMDOJO Sensei, an AI-powered supply chain consultant trained exclusively on SCMDOJO's proprietary body of knowledge. They get into the realities of building an online education business, why ChatGPT is not the threat most educators think it is, how multi-agent AI is about to change business operations, and what it actually takes to keep pivoting before the market forces your hand.</p><p><br>Key Takeaways:<br>Most supply chain professionals enter the field by chance rather than design, creating a massive gap between the knowledge they need and what traditional, expensive certifications provide – that gap is exactly what SCMDOJO was built to close.<br>Building an audience takes consistent value creation over years, not months. Dr. Muddassir shared content for three years before seeing any meaningful traction – and that patience is what made the difference.<br>Covid was unusual, not a business model – the real proof of concept was that people will pay for digital learning when it solves a real problem. That insight drove the decision to go full-time with SCMDOJO.<br>Generic AI tools like ChatGPT hallucinate on technical, domain-specific content because they are not trained on deep vertical knowledge. Proprietary AI trained on expert content – like SCMDOJO Sensei – fills that gap in a way public LLMs cannot.<br>Multi-agent AI is the next major shift: rather than querying AI, businesses will deploy chains of agents that act autonomously to send emails, qualify leads, create documents and run workflows while the operator does something else entirely.<br>The biggest challenge in change management is not technology adoption – it is changing user behaviour among people who are too busy and too proud to admit they need a better system.</p><p><br>Visit SCMDOJO: https://www.scmdojo.com<br>Follow SCMDOJO on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/scmdojo</p><p><br>Connect with Dr. Muddassir Ahmed:<br>LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/muddassirism<br>Social media: @muddassirism on Instagram, TikTok, X and Facebook</p><p>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </content:encoded>
      <pubDate>Fri, 27 Feb 2026 13:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>Mark Francis</author>
      <enclosure url="https://media.transistor.fm/08f5cba5/2369cadb.mp3" length="24169824" type="audio/mpeg"/>
      <itunes:author>Mark Francis</itunes:author>
      <itunes:duration>3016</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>
        <![CDATA[<p>Dr. Muddassir Ahmed spent 17 years working his way up through global supply chain roles – from buyer to divisional supply chain head overseeing a $700M business across Romania, China, Germany and the Middle East. What he kept noticing was the same problem everywhere: most supply chain professionals land in the field by accident, with no real theoretical foundation to draw on when things get complicated. Traditional accreditations existed, but they cost thousands of dollars and hadn't changed in decades. So he built something different. Starting with a $9 blog domain and YouTube videos recorded on a sofa in Karachi, he grew what is now SCMDOJO – one of the world's largest supply chain learning platforms, with 18,000 members, 76 courses across 23 expert contributors, and a community of over 300,000 supply chain professionals.</p><p>In this episode, Mark Francis sits down with Dr. Muddassir to trace the full journey – from practitioner to influencer, from blogger to academy founder, and now into his boldest pivot yet: building SCMDOJO Sensei, an AI-powered supply chain consultant trained exclusively on SCMDOJO's proprietary body of knowledge. They get into the realities of building an online education business, why ChatGPT is not the threat most educators think it is, how multi-agent AI is about to change business operations, and what it actually takes to keep pivoting before the market forces your hand.</p><p><br>Key Takeaways:<br>Most supply chain professionals enter the field by chance rather than design, creating a massive gap between the knowledge they need and what traditional, expensive certifications provide – that gap is exactly what SCMDOJO was built to close.<br>Building an audience takes consistent value creation over years, not months. Dr. Muddassir shared content for three years before seeing any meaningful traction – and that patience is what made the difference.<br>Covid was unusual, not a business model – the real proof of concept was that people will pay for digital learning when it solves a real problem. That insight drove the decision to go full-time with SCMDOJO.<br>Generic AI tools like ChatGPT hallucinate on technical, domain-specific content because they are not trained on deep vertical knowledge. Proprietary AI trained on expert content – like SCMDOJO Sensei – fills that gap in a way public LLMs cannot.<br>Multi-agent AI is the next major shift: rather than querying AI, businesses will deploy chains of agents that act autonomously to send emails, qualify leads, create documents and run workflows while the operator does something else entirely.<br>The biggest challenge in change management is not technology adoption – it is changing user behaviour among people who are too busy and too proud to admit they need a better system.</p><p><br>Visit SCMDOJO: https://www.scmdojo.com<br>Follow SCMDOJO on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/scmdojo</p><p><br>Connect with Dr. Muddassir Ahmed:<br>LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/muddassirism<br>Social media: @muddassirism on Instagram, TikTok, X and Facebook</p><p>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </itunes:summary>
      <itunes:keywords>Who's Your Captain, Mark Francis, leadership podcast, executive coaching, business leadership, mentorship, leadership development, transformational leadership, The Uspire Partnership, business strategy, executive thinking, leadership wisdom, professional development, team leadership, business growth, leadership inspiration, coaching insights, purposeful leadership, business performance, organisational transformation, leadership conversations, mentor stories, business success, executive mindset, leadership influence, retail leadership, organisational change</itunes:keywords>
      <itunes:explicit>No</itunes:explicit>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SE01 E04 Solving Supply Chain Chaos with AI and Real-Time Data | with Souroush Honary</title>
      <itunes:episode>4</itunes:episode>
      <podcast:episode>4</podcast:episode>
      <itunes:title>SE01 E04 Solving Supply Chain Chaos with AI and Real-Time Data | with Souroush Honary</itunes:title>
      <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
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      <link>https://share.transistor.fm/s/5c45b15e</link>
      <description>
        <![CDATA[<p><br>30% of the world's food is wasted – and much of it is down to supply chain failures that technology can prevent. Souroush Honary, CEO and founder of SystemLoco, joins Mark Francis to talk about how near real-time data is transforming the way goods are tracked, monitored, and protected from farm to shelf. With over 3 million devices deployed and 50+ staff across the US, UK, and Taiwan, SystemLoco is making supply chain visibility accessible to businesses of all sizes – not just those at the high end of the market.</p><p>Souroush shares what it took to build a purpose-driven tech company over nearly 10 years, why engineers are natural problem solvers and how to lead them without micromanaging, and how thinking like a PhD researcher helps him approach every business challenge differently. He also opens up about the realities of scaling – restructuring teams, managing partners, riding exponential market curves, and staying data-driven in a company that sells data-driven solutions.</p><p>If you're a founder, tech CEO, or supply chain professional wondering how to lead with curiosity, scale with purpose, and build a team that stays with you for the long haul, this episode is for you.</p><p>Key Takeaways:</p><p>Real-time supply chain data can prevent problems before they happen, reducing disruption costs that are often 5-10x the value of the goods themselves.</p><p>Embedding tracking technology into reusable packaging is dramatically reducing the cost of shipment monitoring and opening up markets that were previously unaffordable to serve.</p><p>Great leadership is about asking the right questions, not having all the answers – a shift in mindset that transformed Souroush's approach to running his team.</p><p>Building a strong partner ecosystem lets you scale without losing focus on what your company does best.</p><p>Empowering your team means accepting they may do things differently – and backing them anyway.</p><p>Incentivising staff with share options and making them part of the mission reduces knowledge loss and drives long-term retention.</p><p>Keeping your finger on the pulse of market trends – especially exponential shifts driven by AI and falling hardware costs – is essential to positioning your company for the next growth curve.</p><p>The best sales approach in complex B2B markets is to listen more than you pitch and solve the core problem before expanding scope.</p><p>Follow SystemLoco: Website: https://www.systemloco.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/systemloco</p><p><br>Connect with Souroush Honary:<br>LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/souroush-honary-5925986/</p><p><br>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </description>
      <content:encoded>
        <![CDATA[<p><br>30% of the world's food is wasted – and much of it is down to supply chain failures that technology can prevent. Souroush Honary, CEO and founder of SystemLoco, joins Mark Francis to talk about how near real-time data is transforming the way goods are tracked, monitored, and protected from farm to shelf. With over 3 million devices deployed and 50+ staff across the US, UK, and Taiwan, SystemLoco is making supply chain visibility accessible to businesses of all sizes – not just those at the high end of the market.</p><p>Souroush shares what it took to build a purpose-driven tech company over nearly 10 years, why engineers are natural problem solvers and how to lead them without micromanaging, and how thinking like a PhD researcher helps him approach every business challenge differently. He also opens up about the realities of scaling – restructuring teams, managing partners, riding exponential market curves, and staying data-driven in a company that sells data-driven solutions.</p><p>If you're a founder, tech CEO, or supply chain professional wondering how to lead with curiosity, scale with purpose, and build a team that stays with you for the long haul, this episode is for you.</p><p>Key Takeaways:</p><p>Real-time supply chain data can prevent problems before they happen, reducing disruption costs that are often 5-10x the value of the goods themselves.</p><p>Embedding tracking technology into reusable packaging is dramatically reducing the cost of shipment monitoring and opening up markets that were previously unaffordable to serve.</p><p>Great leadership is about asking the right questions, not having all the answers – a shift in mindset that transformed Souroush's approach to running his team.</p><p>Building a strong partner ecosystem lets you scale without losing focus on what your company does best.</p><p>Empowering your team means accepting they may do things differently – and backing them anyway.</p><p>Incentivising staff with share options and making them part of the mission reduces knowledge loss and drives long-term retention.</p><p>Keeping your finger on the pulse of market trends – especially exponential shifts driven by AI and falling hardware costs – is essential to positioning your company for the next growth curve.</p><p>The best sales approach in complex B2B markets is to listen more than you pitch and solve the core problem before expanding scope.</p><p>Follow SystemLoco: Website: https://www.systemloco.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/systemloco</p><p><br>Connect with Souroush Honary:<br>LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/souroush-honary-5925986/</p><p><br>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </content:encoded>
      <pubDate>Fri, 20 Feb 2026 13:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>Mark Francis</author>
      <enclosure url="https://media.transistor.fm/5c45b15e/a8ffdcbe.mp3" length="21084031" type="audio/mpeg"/>
      <itunes:author>Mark Francis</itunes:author>
      <itunes:duration>2631</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>
        <![CDATA[<p><br>30% of the world's food is wasted – and much of it is down to supply chain failures that technology can prevent. Souroush Honary, CEO and founder of SystemLoco, joins Mark Francis to talk about how near real-time data is transforming the way goods are tracked, monitored, and protected from farm to shelf. With over 3 million devices deployed and 50+ staff across the US, UK, and Taiwan, SystemLoco is making supply chain visibility accessible to businesses of all sizes – not just those at the high end of the market.</p><p>Souroush shares what it took to build a purpose-driven tech company over nearly 10 years, why engineers are natural problem solvers and how to lead them without micromanaging, and how thinking like a PhD researcher helps him approach every business challenge differently. He also opens up about the realities of scaling – restructuring teams, managing partners, riding exponential market curves, and staying data-driven in a company that sells data-driven solutions.</p><p>If you're a founder, tech CEO, or supply chain professional wondering how to lead with curiosity, scale with purpose, and build a team that stays with you for the long haul, this episode is for you.</p><p>Key Takeaways:</p><p>Real-time supply chain data can prevent problems before they happen, reducing disruption costs that are often 5-10x the value of the goods themselves.</p><p>Embedding tracking technology into reusable packaging is dramatically reducing the cost of shipment monitoring and opening up markets that were previously unaffordable to serve.</p><p>Great leadership is about asking the right questions, not having all the answers – a shift in mindset that transformed Souroush's approach to running his team.</p><p>Building a strong partner ecosystem lets you scale without losing focus on what your company does best.</p><p>Empowering your team means accepting they may do things differently – and backing them anyway.</p><p>Incentivising staff with share options and making them part of the mission reduces knowledge loss and drives long-term retention.</p><p>Keeping your finger on the pulse of market trends – especially exponential shifts driven by AI and falling hardware costs – is essential to positioning your company for the next growth curve.</p><p>The best sales approach in complex B2B markets is to listen more than you pitch and solve the core problem before expanding scope.</p><p>Follow SystemLoco: Website: https://www.systemloco.com LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/systemloco</p><p><br>Connect with Souroush Honary:<br>LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/souroush-honary-5925986/</p><p><br>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </itunes:summary>
      <itunes:keywords>Who's Your Captain, Mark Francis, leadership podcast, executive coaching, business leadership, mentorship, leadership development, transformational leadership, The Uspire Partnership, business strategy, executive thinking, leadership wisdom, professional development, team leadership, business growth, leadership inspiration, coaching insights, purposeful leadership, business performance, organisational transformation, leadership conversations, mentor stories, business success, executive mindset, leadership influence, retail leadership, organisational change</itunes:keywords>
      <itunes:explicit>No</itunes:explicit>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SE01 E03 Making fine wine an investible asset | with Callum Woodcock</title>
      <itunes:episode>3</itunes:episode>
      <podcast:episode>3</podcast:episode>
      <itunes:title>SE01 E03 Making fine wine an investible asset | with Callum Woodcock</itunes:title>
      <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
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      <link>https://share.transistor.fm/s/df387d97</link>
      <description>
        <![CDATA[<p>In this episode, entrepreneur and WineFi founder Callum Woodcock shares how wine is evolving from a luxury hobby into a powerful alternative investment class. From data-driven wine portfolios to building a fintech startup in a traditional industry, this conversation dives deep into innovation, entrepreneurship, and smart investing.</p><p>Callum reveals how WineFi is democratizing wine investment, using machine learning and 39+ data variables to identify investment-grade wines and help investors build long-term portfolios. He also shares honest insights about startup life, mentorship, hiring great teams, and what it really takes to build a sustainable business.</p><p>Whether you're an entrepreneur, investor, or wine enthusiast, this episode offers valuable lessons on building a modern business and thinking differently about wealth.</p><p>In this episode:<br>• How wine became a serious alternative investment<br>• Why revenue models matter more than ideas in startups<br>• Building a fintech business in an unregulated market<br>• The role of mentors, advisors, and great hiring<br>• Using data and AI to transform traditional industries<br>• Real talk on startup growth, leadership, and resilience</p><p>Subscribe for more conversations with visionary founders, investors, and leaders shaping the future of business.</p><p>To connect Callum - https://www.linkedin.com/in/callumwoodcock/</p><p>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </description>
      <content:encoded>
        <![CDATA[<p>In this episode, entrepreneur and WineFi founder Callum Woodcock shares how wine is evolving from a luxury hobby into a powerful alternative investment class. From data-driven wine portfolios to building a fintech startup in a traditional industry, this conversation dives deep into innovation, entrepreneurship, and smart investing.</p><p>Callum reveals how WineFi is democratizing wine investment, using machine learning and 39+ data variables to identify investment-grade wines and help investors build long-term portfolios. He also shares honest insights about startup life, mentorship, hiring great teams, and what it really takes to build a sustainable business.</p><p>Whether you're an entrepreneur, investor, or wine enthusiast, this episode offers valuable lessons on building a modern business and thinking differently about wealth.</p><p>In this episode:<br>• How wine became a serious alternative investment<br>• Why revenue models matter more than ideas in startups<br>• Building a fintech business in an unregulated market<br>• The role of mentors, advisors, and great hiring<br>• Using data and AI to transform traditional industries<br>• Real talk on startup growth, leadership, and resilience</p><p>Subscribe for more conversations with visionary founders, investors, and leaders shaping the future of business.</p><p>To connect Callum - https://www.linkedin.com/in/callumwoodcock/</p><p>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </content:encoded>
      <pubDate>Fri, 13 Feb 2026 13:13:53 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>Mark Francis</author>
      <enclosure url="https://media.transistor.fm/df387d97/63f46095.mp3" length="21751704" type="audio/mpeg"/>
      <itunes:author>Mark Francis</itunes:author>
      <itunes:duration>2714</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>
        <![CDATA[<p>In this episode, entrepreneur and WineFi founder Callum Woodcock shares how wine is evolving from a luxury hobby into a powerful alternative investment class. From data-driven wine portfolios to building a fintech startup in a traditional industry, this conversation dives deep into innovation, entrepreneurship, and smart investing.</p><p>Callum reveals how WineFi is democratizing wine investment, using machine learning and 39+ data variables to identify investment-grade wines and help investors build long-term portfolios. He also shares honest insights about startup life, mentorship, hiring great teams, and what it really takes to build a sustainable business.</p><p>Whether you're an entrepreneur, investor, or wine enthusiast, this episode offers valuable lessons on building a modern business and thinking differently about wealth.</p><p>In this episode:<br>• How wine became a serious alternative investment<br>• Why revenue models matter more than ideas in startups<br>• Building a fintech business in an unregulated market<br>• The role of mentors, advisors, and great hiring<br>• Using data and AI to transform traditional industries<br>• Real talk on startup growth, leadership, and resilience</p><p>Subscribe for more conversations with visionary founders, investors, and leaders shaping the future of business.</p><p>To connect Callum - https://www.linkedin.com/in/callumwoodcock/</p><p>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </itunes:summary>
      <itunes:keywords>Who's Your Captain, Mark Francis, leadership podcast, executive coaching, business leadership, mentorship, leadership development, transformational leadership, The Uspire Partnership, business strategy, executive thinking, leadership wisdom, professional development, team leadership, business growth, leadership inspiration, coaching insights, purposeful leadership, business performance, organisational transformation, leadership conversations, mentor stories, business success, executive mindset, leadership influence, retail leadership, organisational change</itunes:keywords>
      <itunes:explicit>No</itunes:explicit>
    </item>
    <item>
      <title>SE01 E02 Turning EVs into virtual power plants | with Arun Anand</title>
      <itunes:episode>2</itunes:episode>
      <podcast:episode>2</podcast:episode>
      <itunes:title>SE01 E02 Turning EVs into virtual power plants | with Arun Anand</itunes:title>
      <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
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        <![CDATA[<p><br>When Arun Anand bought his first electric vehicle ten years ago, he saw a critical problem nobody was solving: the grid couldn't handle millions of EVs charging simultaneously during peak hours. So he built Electric Miles, a software platform that makes charging more reliable, cheaper, and grid-friendly across five countries.</p><p>In this conversation with Mark Francis, Arun reveals how Electric Miles went from consumer frustration to managing 17,000 users globally, why his lean team handles bus depots across India and Ethiopia, and why he prioritizes building perfect products over aggressive marketing spend. From turning Delhi's air quality crisis into a business opportunity to partnering with National Grid, Arun explains why solving climate change requires thinking in decades, not quarters.</p><p>Key insights from this episode:</p><p>Say yes first, figure out how later—jumping into opportunities without all the answers unlocked expansion across multiple continents</p><p>Product quality trumps marketing spend—solving core problems creates organic growth rather than expensive campaigns</p><p>The painkiller versus vitamin principle—selling solutions to people with urgent problems converts faster than those without immediate pain</p><p>AI plus expert equals trust—large language models need skilled professionals verifying outputs to maintain credibility</p><p>Culture reveals itself under pressure—how teams respond when products fail determines customer service ratings</p><p>Network equals net worth—building genuine relationships matters more than individual financial metrics</p><p>The middle is hardest—the period when nothing works and hope fades separates successful founders from those who quit</p><p>The biggest opportunity ahead is battery storage orchestration. Arun envisions homes with solar panels, battery storage, and EVs becoming self-sustaining, earning money by selling excess energy back to the grid during peak times. Electric Miles will orchestrate this ecosystem, optimizing every kilowatt for maximum savings and minimal grid strain.</p><p>Connect with Arun Anand:<br>LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arunanandem<br>Electric Miles: https://electricmiles.com</p><p>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
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      <content:encoded>
        <![CDATA[<p><br>When Arun Anand bought his first electric vehicle ten years ago, he saw a critical problem nobody was solving: the grid couldn't handle millions of EVs charging simultaneously during peak hours. So he built Electric Miles, a software platform that makes charging more reliable, cheaper, and grid-friendly across five countries.</p><p>In this conversation with Mark Francis, Arun reveals how Electric Miles went from consumer frustration to managing 17,000 users globally, why his lean team handles bus depots across India and Ethiopia, and why he prioritizes building perfect products over aggressive marketing spend. From turning Delhi's air quality crisis into a business opportunity to partnering with National Grid, Arun explains why solving climate change requires thinking in decades, not quarters.</p><p>Key insights from this episode:</p><p>Say yes first, figure out how later—jumping into opportunities without all the answers unlocked expansion across multiple continents</p><p>Product quality trumps marketing spend—solving core problems creates organic growth rather than expensive campaigns</p><p>The painkiller versus vitamin principle—selling solutions to people with urgent problems converts faster than those without immediate pain</p><p>AI plus expert equals trust—large language models need skilled professionals verifying outputs to maintain credibility</p><p>Culture reveals itself under pressure—how teams respond when products fail determines customer service ratings</p><p>Network equals net worth—building genuine relationships matters more than individual financial metrics</p><p>The middle is hardest—the period when nothing works and hope fades separates successful founders from those who quit</p><p>The biggest opportunity ahead is battery storage orchestration. Arun envisions homes with solar panels, battery storage, and EVs becoming self-sustaining, earning money by selling excess energy back to the grid during peak times. Electric Miles will orchestrate this ecosystem, optimizing every kilowatt for maximum savings and minimal grid strain.</p><p>Connect with Arun Anand:<br>LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arunanandem<br>Electric Miles: https://electricmiles.com</p><p>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </content:encoded>
      <pubDate>Thu, 12 Feb 2026 13:00:00 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>Mark Francis</author>
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      <itunes:author>Mark Francis</itunes:author>
      <itunes:duration>3125</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>
        <![CDATA[<p><br>When Arun Anand bought his first electric vehicle ten years ago, he saw a critical problem nobody was solving: the grid couldn't handle millions of EVs charging simultaneously during peak hours. So he built Electric Miles, a software platform that makes charging more reliable, cheaper, and grid-friendly across five countries.</p><p>In this conversation with Mark Francis, Arun reveals how Electric Miles went from consumer frustration to managing 17,000 users globally, why his lean team handles bus depots across India and Ethiopia, and why he prioritizes building perfect products over aggressive marketing spend. From turning Delhi's air quality crisis into a business opportunity to partnering with National Grid, Arun explains why solving climate change requires thinking in decades, not quarters.</p><p>Key insights from this episode:</p><p>Say yes first, figure out how later—jumping into opportunities without all the answers unlocked expansion across multiple continents</p><p>Product quality trumps marketing spend—solving core problems creates organic growth rather than expensive campaigns</p><p>The painkiller versus vitamin principle—selling solutions to people with urgent problems converts faster than those without immediate pain</p><p>AI plus expert equals trust—large language models need skilled professionals verifying outputs to maintain credibility</p><p>Culture reveals itself under pressure—how teams respond when products fail determines customer service ratings</p><p>Network equals net worth—building genuine relationships matters more than individual financial metrics</p><p>The middle is hardest—the period when nothing works and hope fades separates successful founders from those who quit</p><p>The biggest opportunity ahead is battery storage orchestration. Arun envisions homes with solar panels, battery storage, and EVs becoming self-sustaining, earning money by selling excess energy back to the grid during peak times. Electric Miles will orchestrate this ecosystem, optimizing every kilowatt for maximum savings and minimal grid strain.</p><p>Connect with Arun Anand:<br>LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/arunanandem<br>Electric Miles: https://electricmiles.com</p><p>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership </p><p>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.</p><p>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
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      <itunes:keywords>Who's Your Captain, Mark Francis, leadership podcast, executive coaching, business leadership, mentorship, leadership development, transformational leadership, The Uspire Partnership, business strategy, executive thinking, leadership wisdom, professional development, team leadership, business growth, leadership inspiration, coaching insights, purposeful leadership, business performance, organisational transformation, leadership conversations, mentor stories, business success, executive mindset, leadership influence, retail leadership, organisational change</itunes:keywords>
      <itunes:explicit>No</itunes:explicit>
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      <title>SE01 E01 How One CEO Transformed His Team from Last to First | with Darryl Heffline</title>
      <itunes:episode>1</itunes:episode>
      <podcast:episode>1</podcast:episode>
      <itunes:title>SE01 E01 How One CEO Transformed His Team from Last to First | with Darryl Heffline</itunes:title>
      <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
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        <![CDATA[<p>Discover the powerful leadership transformation that took a failing team to top performance. Darryl Heffline, CEO and author of "Shifting Gears at the Crossroads," shares the brutally honest feedback that changed his entire approach to leadership and reveals the four pillars that build trust in any organization.<br>In this conversation, Darryl breaks down the exact moment a colleague told him his leadership style was destroying his team - and the four specific changes that turned everything around. Learn how vulnerability, approachability, patience, and genuine care transformed a last-place manufacturing team into industry leaders.</p><p>Darryl introduces his VAPC framework for trustworthy leadership and explains why most leaders get repositioning wrong when facing business disruptions. He shares practical insights from 40 years leading teams across 30 different projects, including his approach to the critical first 60 days as a new CEO.<br>Whether you're leading a team of five or five hundred, this episode delivers actionable strategies for building trust, creating vision, and developing the next generation of leaders. Darryl also reveals why only 10-20% of companies actually have effective succession plans and what you can do differently.</p><p><br>Key insights include the five essential steps to build a compelling case for change, the four phases of transformation (reposition, rebuild, re-emerge, realize), and why balancing faith, family, fitness, and finances matters more than just hitting your numbers.</p><p>If you've ever felt stuck in your leadership approach or wondered how to mobilize your team toward a bigger vision, this conversation will challenge how you think about influence, legacy, and what it really means to serve as a leader.</p><p>Ready to shift gears in your own leadership journey? Start by recognizing when change is needed - because the most dangerous position is realizing 10 or 20 years too late that you've been on the wrong path.</p><p>Get Darryl's book "Shifting Gears at the Crossroads" and access free downloadable tools at his website.</p><p>Connect with Darryl Heffline on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrylheffline/</p><p><br>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p><br>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p><br>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership <br>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.<br>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </description>
      <content:encoded>
        <![CDATA[<p>Discover the powerful leadership transformation that took a failing team to top performance. Darryl Heffline, CEO and author of "Shifting Gears at the Crossroads," shares the brutally honest feedback that changed his entire approach to leadership and reveals the four pillars that build trust in any organization.<br>In this conversation, Darryl breaks down the exact moment a colleague told him his leadership style was destroying his team - and the four specific changes that turned everything around. Learn how vulnerability, approachability, patience, and genuine care transformed a last-place manufacturing team into industry leaders.</p><p>Darryl introduces his VAPC framework for trustworthy leadership and explains why most leaders get repositioning wrong when facing business disruptions. He shares practical insights from 40 years leading teams across 30 different projects, including his approach to the critical first 60 days as a new CEO.<br>Whether you're leading a team of five or five hundred, this episode delivers actionable strategies for building trust, creating vision, and developing the next generation of leaders. Darryl also reveals why only 10-20% of companies actually have effective succession plans and what you can do differently.</p><p><br>Key insights include the five essential steps to build a compelling case for change, the four phases of transformation (reposition, rebuild, re-emerge, realize), and why balancing faith, family, fitness, and finances matters more than just hitting your numbers.</p><p>If you've ever felt stuck in your leadership approach or wondered how to mobilize your team toward a bigger vision, this conversation will challenge how you think about influence, legacy, and what it really means to serve as a leader.</p><p>Ready to shift gears in your own leadership journey? Start by recognizing when change is needed - because the most dangerous position is realizing 10 or 20 years too late that you've been on the wrong path.</p><p>Get Darryl's book "Shifting Gears at the Crossroads" and access free downloadable tools at his website.</p><p>Connect with Darryl Heffline on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrylheffline/</p><p><br>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p><br>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p><br>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership <br>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.<br>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </content:encoded>
      <pubDate>Fri, 06 Feb 2026 10:20:41 +0000</pubDate>
      <author>Mark Francis</author>
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      <itunes:author>Mark Francis</itunes:author>
      <itunes:duration>2968</itunes:duration>
      <itunes:summary>
        <![CDATA[<p>Discover the powerful leadership transformation that took a failing team to top performance. Darryl Heffline, CEO and author of "Shifting Gears at the Crossroads," shares the brutally honest feedback that changed his entire approach to leadership and reveals the four pillars that build trust in any organization.<br>In this conversation, Darryl breaks down the exact moment a colleague told him his leadership style was destroying his team - and the four specific changes that turned everything around. Learn how vulnerability, approachability, patience, and genuine care transformed a last-place manufacturing team into industry leaders.</p><p>Darryl introduces his VAPC framework for trustworthy leadership and explains why most leaders get repositioning wrong when facing business disruptions. He shares practical insights from 40 years leading teams across 30 different projects, including his approach to the critical first 60 days as a new CEO.<br>Whether you're leading a team of five or five hundred, this episode delivers actionable strategies for building trust, creating vision, and developing the next generation of leaders. Darryl also reveals why only 10-20% of companies actually have effective succession plans and what you can do differently.</p><p><br>Key insights include the five essential steps to build a compelling case for change, the four phases of transformation (reposition, rebuild, re-emerge, realize), and why balancing faith, family, fitness, and finances matters more than just hitting your numbers.</p><p>If you've ever felt stuck in your leadership approach or wondered how to mobilize your team toward a bigger vision, this conversation will challenge how you think about influence, legacy, and what it really means to serve as a leader.</p><p>Ready to shift gears in your own leadership journey? Start by recognizing when change is needed - because the most dangerous position is realizing 10 or 20 years too late that you've been on the wrong path.</p><p>Get Darryl's book "Shifting Gears at the Crossroads" and access free downloadable tools at his website.</p><p>Connect with Darryl Heffline on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/darrylheffline/</p><p><br>I hope you enjoy this episode! Give it a like, share, and subscribe to not miss the content coming your way weekly.<br>– Mark and the Who's Your Captain podcast team</p><p><br>Connect with Mark Francis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-francis-78b3061/<br>Visit The Uspire Partnership website here: https://theuspirepartnership.com<br>Preview Mark's book here: https://www.book2look.com/book/5PLGQaM16K</p><p>Listen to Who's Your Captain on the following Platforms:<br>Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/097OvlL7btd8f7bplgIfv0<br>Apple: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/whos-your-captain/id1875226706<br>Amazon: https://music.amazon.com/podcasts/c6109160-6448-4d95-9850-07456d5adbca/who's-your-captain</p><p><br>#WhosYourCaptain #MarkFrancis #LeadershipPodcast #ExecutiveCoaching #BusinessLeadership #Mentorship #LeadershipDevelopment #PurposeDrivenLeadership #TransformationalLeadership #BusinessGrowth #ExecutiveThinking #Leadership <br>Hosted by Mark Francis, founder of The Uspire Partnership and former senior leader at Burberry and Tesco, this podcast provokes fresh thinking, energises purpose, and transforms how leaders perform. With over 25 years of experience in learning and development, organisational change, and executive coaching, Mark brings deep insight to every conversation. He's worked across retail, FMCG, logistics, and professional services, helping leaders and organisations unlock potential and drive meaningful transformation. Whether you're building a business, leading a team, or navigating your own path, you'll discover practical wisdom and inspiration from those who know what it takes to steer the ship.<br>If you're a business leader, entrepreneur, or professional looking to elevate your leadership, find inspiration from great mentors, or understand what drives transformational performance, this podcast will give you the insights and energy to chart your own course with confidence.</p>]]>
      </itunes:summary>
      <itunes:keywords>Who's Your Captain, Mark Francis, leadership podcast, executive coaching, business leadership, mentorship, leadership development, transformational leadership, The Uspire Partnership, business strategy, executive thinking, leadership wisdom, professional development, team leadership, business growth, leadership inspiration, coaching insights, purposeful leadership, business performance, organisational transformation, leadership conversations, mentor stories, business success, executive mindset, leadership influence, retail leadership, organisational change</itunes:keywords>
      <itunes:explicit>No</itunes:explicit>
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