In this episode of This Connected Life, host Mel Kettle dives into the complexities of communication and connection in a disconnected world with guest Victoria Rennoldson. Victoria is a leadership communication coach and certified cultural intelligence trainer who works with global leaders and teams to amplify their impact, speak with authority, and lead confidently across diverse cultures. Together, Mel and Victoria discuss what it truly means to connect in today’s fast-paced, tech-driven world, as well as practical ways to foster collaboration and inclusivity in global teams.

We talk about:

• Defining True Connection: Why connection is more than just hopping on a Zoom call.

• Navigating Cultural Differences: How cultural influences affect communication styles and team dynamics.

• Leadership Challenges in Global Teams: Common communication pitfalls and how to overcome them.

• Practical Tips for Inclusive Leadership: Using tools and strategies to engage all team members, regardless of culture or communication style.

• Building Confidence as a Leader: How to amplify your strengths and show up authentically.

• Fun superpowers and coffee

Victoria Rennoldson is an award-winning cultural intelligence and communication coach, and the founder of Culture Cuppa.

In her view, the communication and cultural gap is a huge waste of talent and valuable ideas for your team and organisation. She is passionate about achieving an equal share of voice for everybody in multicultural and multilingual teams.

Victoria works with talented and ambitious individuals and teams all over the world, who need help with leadership communication skills, communicating confidently and with the cultural challenges of collaborating successfully and building trust with global teams, international customers and partners.

You can connect with Victoria:

• LinkedIn

• The Culture Cuppa website and podcast

Buy a copy of my book, Fully Connected, here: https://www.melkettle.com/store/p/fullyconnectedbook

Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melkettle/

and Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melkettle/

In this episode of This Connected Life, Mel Kettle welcomes back Steph Clarke, a multi-potentialite, lifelong learner, and futures thinking specialist, to discuss the evolving nature of connection, foresight, and the future of friendship.

Steph shares her expertise on futures thinking, how leaders can use foresight to stay relevant, and why friendship deserves more value in today’s world.

We talk about:

• Living a big life in a small place and insights into curating your ideal life.
• The importance of imagining possibilities instead of predicting outcomes.
• How leaders can identify signals of change and build "treasure maps" for the future.
• The role of courage and imagination in navigating ambiguity and uncertainty.
• Signals of change to watch for
• Why friendship is undervalued compared to romantic relationships.

Resources:

• Book: Imaginable by Jane McGonigal
• TED Talk by Emily Wapnick on being a multi-potentialite
• Article: The Friendship Paradox by The Atlantic ($)

Connect with Steph:

• LinkedIn
• Steph's Website
• Interested in her book, "The Future of Friendship"? Submit your friendship stories here before 24 December 2024

Buy a copy of my book, Fully Connected, here: https://www.melkettle.com/store/p/fullyconnectedbook

Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melkettle/

and Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melkettle/

In this episode of This Connected Life, Mel Kettle sits down with marketing strategist and consultant Bec Chappell to explore the true meaning of connection—both in business and in life. Bec shares her insights into building genuine relationships in an increasingly digital world, the role of social media in marketing, and how to stand out authentically in a crowded market.

We talk about:

• The Importance of Real Connections
• Navigating Social Media: Learn why social media is a tool, not a complete strategy, and how focusing on relationships can bring more meaningful engagement.
• Personal Branding and Authenticity: Discover the importance of showing up as your true self across all platforms and why your unique essence sets you apart.
• Dating in the Digital Age: Bec’s humorous and honest take on the challenges of modern dating apps, and her tips for fostering real connections beyond the swipe.
• The Role of AI in Marketing: A candid discussion on how AI is changing the marketing landscape and the importance of maintaining originality and authenticity in a world flooded with content.

Connect with Bec Chappell:

• LinkedIn: Bec Chappell
• Instagram: @bec_chappell
• Website: becchappell.com.au
• Podcast: Marketing Espresso
• White Paper: "Social Media Won't Save Your Marketing"

Whether you're a business owner, a marketer, or just someone navigating the complexities of modern relationships, this episode is filled with actionable advice and lighthearted moments that remind us of the power of connection. Listen in and get inspired to bring more authenticity into all areas of your life.

• Learn more about the Confident Communicator workshops I mention here: https://courses.melkettle.com/comms2024
• Buy a copy of my book, Fully Connected, here: https://www.melkettle.com/store/p/fullyconnectedbook
• Connect with me on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melkettle/
• and Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/melkettle/