Leanne on Demand Daily with Leanne Hughes

Hey, great to have you here. In this episode, I share the story behind my recent experience with paperwork that inspired me to rename the episode from “Bureaucracy” to “Bureaucrazy.” I felt that swapping the C for a Z better captured how frustrated I was with the process.What Went Down:I was dealing with a never-ending loop of paperwork at the Department of Transport. It all started when I was trying to sort out some car paperwork, which turned out to be nearly impossible to get done. Even after returning early the next day, I was met with more questions – like whether I had a roadworthy certificate for my car – even though I was in the process of switching the paperwork to my name. I ended up booking a service and scheduling an extra roadworthy certificate, and I still haven’t closed the loop on it yet!Listener Responses:I received a few fantastic voice notes from you lot. One came from my friend, Steph Clark, who shared a really interesting story about Australia Post in New South Wales.I also got a voice note from Steve Harvey. He talked about a model he uses – the three C’s: Contribution, Confidence, and Consensus. According to him, these help assess whether a document or process is truly adding value. He pointed out that often people agree behind the scenes that a system is inefficient, but it takes a conversation to bring that issue to light.Final Thoughts:I really enjoyed hearing your feedback and sharing these experiences with you. If you’ve ever encountered similar bureaucratic challenges, or if you have thoughts on how organisations can cut through the red tape, I’d love to hear your story. Feel free to send me a voice note on any of my social platforms.Thanks so much for tuning in. I’m still sorting out that car paperwork, so here’s hoping for a smoother ride next time. Speak to you soon!Here are a couple of questions for you to think about:Have you ever experienced a moment when bureaucracy just got in the way of getting things done?Do you have any ideas on how large organisations could simplify their procedures?Sign up for free for my best articles every week: Work Fame.Show notes for every episode at https://podcast.leannehughes.comP.S. Ready to take things up a level? Here are some ways I can help:Watch My 2025 Speaker Reel: Let's energise your next event.Get My Book: Design your workshops fast using The 2-Hour Workshop Blueprint. Let's connect on all the channels:Leanne Hughes on LinkedInLeanne Hughes on InstagramVisit my website: leannehughes.comEmail me: hello@leannehughes.comWould you like to deliver your own private podcast feed to your audience? Sign up for a free trial today at Hello Audio.

I talk about my love for Vietnamese food and how visiting a cluster of similar stores showed me that competition isn’t something to fear—it’s an opportunity.I recount my personal experience at different food spots where I discovered that when businesses are close together, they naturally push each other to improve.I invite you to think about how this approach can apply to your own work or business. Instead of seeing competition as a threat, I challenge you to consider how it can signal market demand and inspire you to refine your own offerings.Reflect:How do you see competition influencing your own approach to business or creativity?What small changes could you make to stand out in a crowded market?Which part of my experience at the Magic Mile resonated most with you?Sign up for free for my best articles every week: Work Fame.Show notes for every episode at https://podcast.leannehughes.comP.S. Ready to take things up a level? Here are some ways I can help:Watch My 2025 Speaker Reel: Let's energise your next event.Get My Book: Design your workshops fast using The 2-Hour Workshop Blueprint. Let's connect on all the channels:Leanne Hughes on LinkedInLeanne Hughes on InstagramVisit my website: leannehughes.comEmail me: hello@leannehughes.comWould you like to deliver your own private podcast feed to your audience? Sign up for a free trial today at Hello Audio.

Today, I share my personal framework that has helped me host engaging and lively panel discussions. I break it down into four essential parts that I call the 4Ps. By the end of our chat, you’ll see how a bit of preparation and a clear vision can make all the difference.1. PhilosophyI start by explaining how having a strong vision and clear values sets the tone for your panel. I talk about why balancing diverse viewpoints and keeping the audience’s interests front and centre matters to you and your panelists.2. PreparationI dive into the nitty-gritty of doing your homework—researching your topic, getting to know your panelists, and crafting sharp introductions. You’ll hear how I go the extra mile to get familiar with every detail that can enhance your discussion.3. Pre BriefingNext, I highlight the importance of connecting with your panelists before the event. I share my approach to setting expectations through a quick email or video, ensuring that everyone’s on the same page before the spotlight hits.4. PerformanceFinally, I take you through what happens on the day. I explain how you can keep the conversation dynamic and engaging, making sure that every moment on stage truly counts.I hope you enjoy these insights and feel inspired to try out these steps for your own panel events. Remember, a bit of planning goes a long way in making your panel conversations memorable.What’s one new idea from this episode that you’re excited to try out?Sign up for free for my best articles every week: Work Fame.Show notes for every episode at https://podcast.leannehughes.comP.S. Ready to take things up a level? Here are some ways I can help:Watch My 2025 Speaker Reel: Let's energise your next event.Get My Book: Design your workshops fast using The 2-Hour Workshop Blueprint. Let's connect on all the channels:Leanne Hughes on LinkedInLeanne Hughes on InstagramVisit my website: leannehughes.comEmail me: hello@leannehughes.comWould you like to deliver your own private podcast feed to your audience? Sign up for a free trial today at Hello Audio.

Hey there! Today's episode is super fresh because I've been actively putting these strategies into practice. I want to share with you my process for dealing with overwhelm, and how I've discovered that treating everything as a project brings amazing clarity.What Overwhelm Feels Like For MeYou know those moments when you're in the shower, driving, or trying to sleep, and suddenly remember "Oh no, I didn't contact that person!" or "I forgot to respond to that email!"? When these micro-reminders keep popping up, that's my sign that overwhelm is creeping in. When I'm not overwhelmed, I'm typically proactive and on top of things. But when these little reminders start haunting me, it's time to take action.My Key Strategy: Everything Is A ProjectHere's something crucial - I don't separate work and life. Whether it's preparing for a workshop or remembering to get cash for the gardener, it all goes into one system. Why? Because these tasks all use up mental bandwidth, and the second I write them down, I feel better.My Simple But Effective SystemWant to know what works for me? Here's my process:I use Google Sheets (I've tried Asana, Trello, but this is my favourite). Here's what I do:Create columns for week beginning datesList all my projects in Column A (work commitments, life goals, even my half marathon training)Add at least 5 rows under each projectBrain dump every single micro-task, no matter how smallColor code and assign tasks to specific weeksTransfer important tasks to my calendarWhy This WorksThe magic happens when you get everything out of your head and onto the sheet. Those floating ideas that were consuming your mental RAM? They now have a home. It's like having a trusted system that lets your brain relax.Pro TipsBatch similar tasks (like recording pre-session videos)Break down big projects into tiny, manageable tasksUse your calendar as your commitment deviceGive yourself fake deadlines and treat them as realDon't judge tasks as too small - if it's taking up mental space, write it downLet's Connect!I'd love to hear your strategies for managing overwhelm. Send me a voice note on social media or email me What works for you? How do you handle those overwhelming moments?Remember, sometimes the simplest systems are the most effective. This method might not work for everyone, but it's been a game-changer for me. Try it out and let me know how it goes!Catch you in tomorrow's episode!Sign up for free for my best articles every week: Work Fame.Show notes for every episode at https://podcast.leannehughes.comP.S. Ready to take things up a level? Here are some ways I can help:Watch My 2025 Speaker Reel: Let's energise your next event.Get My Book: Design your workshops fast using The 2-Hour Workshop Blueprint. Let's connect on all the channels:Leanne Hughes on LinkedInLeanne Hughes on InstagramVisit my website: leannehughes.comEmail me: hello@leannehughes.comWould you like to deliver your own private podcast feed to your audience? Sign up for a free trial today at Hello Audio.

In this episode, I chat with Mel Kettle, an inspiring thought leader on connected leadership. We share some laughs about past podcast experiments, discuss the importance of knowing when to fail fast, and explore what it means to be fully connected. You’ll learn about Mel's professional journey, moving from Brisbane to the Sunshine Coast, and the balance between pushing through challenges and knowing when to quit. Mel offers valuable insights into setting boundaries, the importance of self-awareness, and how to incorporate self-care into your leadership approach. Plus, we touch on why public professionalism matters and how to bring your authentic self to every aspect of your work. This conversation is packed with tips and reflections that will help you think about your own experiments and leadership style. Enjoy the episode!Sign up for free for my best articles every week: Work Fame.Show notes for every episode at https://podcast.leannehughes.comP.S. Ready to take things up a level? Here are some ways I can help:Watch My 2025 Speaker Reel: Let's energise your next event.Get My Book: Design your workshops fast using The 2-Hour Workshop Blueprint. Let's connect on all the channels:Leanne Hughes on LinkedInLeanne Hughes on InstagramVisit my website: leannehughes.comEmail me: hello@leannehughes.comWould you like to deliver your own private podcast feed to your audience? Sign up for a free trial today at Hello Audio.

In this episode of the Weekend Rewind, I sit down with Nick Gray, the author of 'The 2 Hour Cocktail Party'. You'll hear about Nick's innovative approach to socializing, which led him to create a thriving community and launch his multimillion-dollar business, Museum Hack. Learn how Nick's formula—name tags, icebreakers, cocktails only, and a strict two-hour limit—can help you host seamless and enriching gatherings. Discover tips on overcoming the initial fear of hosting, the benefits of inviting different groups of friends, and how these gatherings can open up exciting opportunities. Tune in to be inspired to start your own two-hour cocktail party and build stronger connections within your community. 00:00 Introduction to the Weekend Rewind00:28 Meet Nick Gray: The Party Expert01:51 The Birth of Museum Hack03:18 Nick's Philosophy on Maximizing Life04:18 Nick's American Pie Experience05:56 The Two-Hour Cocktail Party Book12:13 Hosting Your First Cocktail Party19:01 Enhancing Guest Bios and Ice Breakers20:10 The Value of Hosting Cocktail Parties22:11 Australian Party Experiences and Learnings24:06 Facilitation Techniques and Icebreakers27:24 Curating Guest Lists and Advanced Hosting Tips33:52 Exploring New Social Gathering Formats36:38 Conclusion and Contact InformationSign up for free for my best articles every week: Work Fame.Show notes for every episode at https://podcast.leannehughes.comP.S. Ready to take things up a level? Here are some ways I can help:Watch My 2025 Speaker Reel: Let's energise your next event.Get My Book: Design your workshops fast using The 2-Hour Workshop Blueprint. Let's connect on all the channels:Leanne Hughes on LinkedInLeanne Hughes on InstagramVisit my website: leannehughes.comEmail me: hello@leannehughes.comWould you like to deliver your own private podcast feed to your audience? Sign up for a free trial today at Hello Audio.

You won’t believe what ChatGPT admitted when I asked it about its biggest fear. The answer? Irrelevance. And honestly, that hit home.If you’ve ever wondered how to stay relevant in a world moving at lightning speed—especially with AI shaking things up—this episode is for you. I’m joined by my good friend Ronsley Vaz, the reason I started my podcast in the first place. He’s the founder of We Are Podcast and now runs Amplify AI, where he helps people like you and me leverage AI without losing our human edge.We cover a ton of ground in this conversation, including:🔥 The crazy AI tools that are making content creation faster and smarter🔥 How Ronsley automated an entire workshop experience using AI🔥 The compression pants method (yes, really) for managing meetings🔥 Why AI isn’t replacing your expertise—but it can help you scale it🔥 The biggest mistakes people make when using AI for content🔥 A behind-the-scenes look at how I’m using AI to run a daily podcast (without losing my mind)Plus, we dive into what it really takes to stand out when AI is making content easier than ever to produce. The game has changed, but the best voices will still rise to the top.So if you’re thinking, Will AI make me irrelevant? or How do I actually use this stuff to my advantage?—this episode is packed with insights you can use right away.🎧 Hit play and let’s dive in.🔗 Links & ResourcesRonsley’s AI education: AmplifyAIs.comCheck out We Are PodcastThe AI tool Ronsley swears by: Perplexity AILet me know—what’s YOUR biggest question about AI? DM me on LinkedIn or Instagram and let’s keep the convo going! 🚀Sign up for free for my best articles every week: Work Fame.Show notes for every episode at https://podcast.leannehughes.comP.S. Ready to take things up a level? Here are some ways I can help:Watch My 2025 Speaker Reel: Let's energise your next event.Get My Book: Design your workshops fast using The 2-Hour Workshop Blueprint. Let's connect on all the channels:Leanne Hughes on LinkedInLeanne Hughes on InstagramVisit my website: leannehughes.comEmail me: hello@leannehughes.comWould you like to deliver your own private podcast feed to your audience? Sign up for a free trial today at Hello Audio.

In today’s episode, I’m joined by Kate Karanges fromThe Latest, a photographer and creative powerhouse who has helped shape my brand presence through the lens.We just wrapped our third shoot together and I thought it'd be fun to run a debrief, on some things like:➡️ When less is more—the power of simplicity, minimalism, and strategic restraint.➡️ When more is more—going big, embracing colour, layers, and boldness.➡️ How to trust your gut to know which one suits your brand, your photos, and your presence.We also talk branding, personal style, and Kate’s exciting new expansion into creative agency work with The Latest.👉 Want an ego boost and a killer brand shoot? Connect with Kate:🌐 Website: thelatest.co📸 Instagram: @___thelatest (Yes, three underscores! It’s a thing.)Key Takeaway: Whether you’re going less is more (like a classic Margherita pizza) or more is more (like a loaded supreme with pineapple), it’s all about intention. Get clear on the vibe you want, and make the call.🎙️ Enjoying Leanne on Demand?🔹 Subscribe & leave a review!🔹 Share this episode with a friend who needs a brand refresh!Sign up for free for my best articles every week: Work Fame.Show notes for every episode at https://podcast.leannehughes.comP.S. Ready to take things up a level? Here are some ways I can help:Watch My 2025 Speaker Reel: Let's energise your next event.Get My Book: Design your workshops fast using The 2-Hour Workshop Blueprint. Let's connect on all the channels:Leanne Hughes on LinkedInLeanne Hughes on InstagramVisit my website: leannehughes.comEmail me: hello@leannehughes.comWould you like to deliver your own private podcast feed to your audience? Sign up for a free trial today at Hello Audio.

Over the weekend, I had the incredible experience of seeing poet-philosopher David Whyte live in Byron Bay. His words didn’t just land—they cut straight to the core. In this episode, I share some of his most profound passages, including a powerful take on branding and identity that shook me.David Whyte challenges the way we see ourselves, reminding us that branding—something so many of us chase—can actually trap us. He describes it as an external mark of ownership, something that confines us rather than setting us free. And honestly? That hit hard.I also reflect on:✨ The tension between visibility and vulnerability—how being seen means being open to both connection and criticism.✨ A poem called "Just Beyond Yourself," which offers a beautiful reminder about growth, letting go, and stepping into the unknown.✨ How this experience made me rethink the evolving nature of my own brand—and what it means to show up as your real self.This episode is for you if you’ve ever felt boxed in by your own success, a label, or an expectation—whether it’s a personal brand, a job title, or even just how others see you.🎧 Tune in, reflect, and let me know—what part of this resonated with you?📩 Drop me a message on socials, or email me at hello@leannehughes.com.🔗 Discover more about David Whyte's work.Sign up for free for my best articles every week: Work Fame.Show notes for every episode at https://podcast.leannehughes.comP.S. Ready to take things up a level? Here are some ways I can help:Watch My 2025 Speaker Reel: Let's energise your next event.Get My Book: Design your workshops fast using The 2-Hour Workshop Blueprint. Let's connect on all the channels:Leanne Hughes on LinkedInLeanne Hughes on InstagramVisit my website: leannehughes.comEmail me: hello@leannehughes.comWould you like to deliver your own private podcast feed to your audience? Sign up for a free trial today at Hello Audio.

Bureaucrazy. Yup, that' show I spell it. Hear about my Achilles journey, my humorous experiment with redundant work reports, and the value of questioning long-standing processes. You'll also learn about Elon Musk's take on bureaucratic inefficiency and my little life hacks that defy everyday systems. By the end, I encourage you to reflect on the 'limestone mines' in your life and consider if it's time to shake things up. Curious about how breaking the rules here and there can lead to better efficiency? Tune in to find out!00:00 Introduction and Personal Anecdote00:50 The Dreaded Transport Department Visit03:08 Bureaucracy in Government and Business04:49 Challenging Inefficiencies in the Workplace06:16 Non-Conformity in Everyday Life07:43 Final Thoughts and Call to ActionSign up for free for my best articles every week: Work Fame.Show notes for every episode at https://podcast.leannehughes.comP.S. Ready to take things up a level? Here are some ways I can help:Watch My 2025 Speaker Reel: Let's energise your next event.Get My Book: Design your workshops fast using The 2-Hour Workshop Blueprint. Let's connect on all the channels:Leanne Hughes on LinkedInLeanne Hughes on InstagramVisit my website: leannehughes.comEmail me: hello@leannehughes.comWould you like to deliver your own private podcast feed to your audience? Sign up for a free trial today at Hello Audio.