#48 Leading Through Loss with Active Hope, Love and Wise Optimism, with Jenny Steadman and Gillian Coutts

Just 11 days before her life-altering stroke, Gillian Coutts and I had shared the stage at The Thriving Workplace event in Sydney. I was captivated by her charisma, profound insights into applied positive psychology, and unwavering dedication to help others unlock their full potential back then, and remain as inspired by her positive force in the world today.

Over the past two years, Gillian has embarked on an extraordinary journey of rehabilitation, with her family and good friend and professional colleague, Jenny Steadman right by her side. Each day, she is learning to integrate her former identity with the realities of her new one, which as a result of her stroke, is shaped by acquired physical limitations and cognitive differences.

In this episode of the NeuroPEAK series, I had the privilege of sitting down with Gillian and Jenny, who has recently shifted into the role of National Director of The Potential Project, a role she'd previously shared with Gillian. Together, they candidly explored what it has been like to navigate these profound changes, offering insights into the transformative power of vulnerability in leadership, the importance of self-awareness, and the invaluable role of love and connection in navigating life’s toughest challenges.

To read further, follow the transcript and gain links to today's resources, visit the episode webpage -  https://www.marianepower.com.au/blog/48

If you liked this episode, please share it with a friend, or take a minute to rate and review on your favouritie podcasting platform! 

Conversation Highlights:

• How The Potential Project is shaping a more human world of work.

• The story of Jenny and Gillian’s enduring friendship and its role as a source of strength in challenging times.

• How Gillian’s stroke has reshaped her perspective on love, relationships, and leadership.

• The power of “wise optimism”: accepting reality while moving forward with hope and intentional action.

• Why navigating change requires emotional agility and self-awareness.

• The role of compassion in modern leadership and workplace culture.

• How AI can complement, rather than replace, human qualities.

• The importance of inclusive workplaces in fostering connection and well-being.

• Why celebrating small achievements builds resilience.

• Gillian and Jenny’s reflections on what makes life truly meaningful

Connect with Mariane:

IG : ‪@marianepower‬

LinkedIn @marianepower

www.marianepower.com.au