

Leanne on Demand Daily with Leanne Hughes
Leanne Hughes
Leanne on Demand is your unfiltered backstage pass to bold ideas, fresh perspectives, and the messy magic of life beyond the boardroom. Think of it as your daily dose of scrappy creativity, served up while I’m walking, working in public, or just living out loud.Every day, I’ll bring you real-time reflections on business, leadership, and the random sparks of inspiration that pop up along the way. From behind-the-scenes peeks into my work to off-the-cuff chats with brilliant minds (or solo rants while I’m on a run), these bite-sized episodes are all about keeping it raw, relatable, and ridiculously actionable.This isn’t your typical polished business podcast – no overthinking, and no-fluff.Perfect for big thinkers, go-getters, and anyone itching for a fresh perspective on how to show up, take action, and make moves.New episodes drop daily. Grab your headphones and let’s take this outside.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Feb 16, 2025 • 9min
🌴48. ROI or ROL (Return on Luck)? feat. Cherie Canning
The CEO in me knows to focus on ROI... BUT, the Leanne loves ROL (Return on Luck) more.And that's what I spoke to Cherie Canning about today!Btw, if you don't know Cherie, you must connect with her.Cherie invited me on her podcast, Lead with Courage this week, and afterwards we hit record for this daily episode.In this 9 min episode, Cherie reflects on the cost and benefits, both tangible and intangible, of running a podcast and explores the concept of 'opportunity cost'. You'll hear insights into her business, Luminate Leadership, and how it evolved from the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Overview00:10 The Decision to Restart the Podcast00:31 Evaluating the Impact and ROI of Podcasting04:20 Personal Development Through Podcasting05:14 Illuminate Leadership and Business Journey08:31 Conclusion and Where to Find the PodcastSign 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.

Feb 15, 2025 • 32min
🌴47. Your stories are boring (Here’s how to fix them!) feat. Matthew Dicks (Weekend Rewind)
Internationally bestselling author Matthew Dicks shares why storytelling so important, and how telling stories is not simply sharing a series of events; it’s the manipulation of emotions.It’s a skill that can be taught and he shares some of the techniques he uses to engage his audience, whether they're 10 year old kids, or politicians.In this episode you’ll learn:What a story is (and what it isn’t)The details you should leave in your story and more importantly; the details you can leave outHow you can become more memorable by sharing things that are vulnerable, amusing or embarrassingThat it’s important to assume that no one wants to listen to anything you have to sayHow to start collecting your own stories by reflecting on everyday momentsMatthew Dicks is the internationally bestselling author of the novels Memoirs of an Imaginary Friend, Something Missing, Unexpectedly, Milo, The Perfect Comeback of Caroline Jacobs, Storyworthy: Engage, Teach, Persuade, and Change Your Life through the Power of Storytelling.His novels have been translated into more than 25 languages worldwide.When not hunched over a computer screen, Matthew fills his days as an elementary school teacher, a storyteller, a speaking coach, a blogger, a wedding DJ, a minister, a life coach, and a Lord of Sealand.ResourcesMatthew DicksGrab his new book! Stories Sell: Storyworth Strategies to Grow Your Business and BrandVideo: Life lessons learned while pole vaulting told by Matthew DicksVideo: Homework for Life by Matthew DicksSign 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.

Feb 14, 2025 • 31min
🌴46. Stop running from AI: Here's how to harness it feat. Alan Weiss (Weekend Rewind)
In this Talk the Walk chat with consulting legend Alan Weiss, we explore how professionals can stay relevant and thrive in the age of AI. Rather than viewing AI as a threat, Alan shares his perspective on using it as a powerful tool to create more value for clients.Key highlights:Why AI is currently about 80% accurate and how to account for its limitationsAlan reveals his groundbreaking "Allen Intelligence" project that will give consultants access to his decades of wisdom through AIThe surprising shift in the job market: white-collar jobs declining while blue-collar trades become more valuableWhy universities and traditional education are facing a seismic disruptionHow remote work is here to stay, and why leaders need to adapt their management approachThe critical difference between judgment and factual knowledge in consultingWhy asking provocative questions is more valuable than having all the answersThe "Madonna Strategy" for staying relevant by continually reinventing yourselfResources Mentioned:American Primeval (TV Show)Microsoft CopilotAlan's upcoming AI platform (launching in 90 days)Whether you're a consultant, knowledge worker, or leader wondering about AI's impact on your industry, this episode offers practical insights on embracing technological change while maintaining your unique human value proposition.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.

Feb 13, 2025 • 9min
🌴45. 34 things Leanne loves: A Valentine’s Day celebration of the little things that make life sweet
Happy Valentine’s Day! In today’s episode, I share a heartwarming list of 34 things she absolutely loves — some big, some small, but all of them bringing her joy. From the perfect first sip of coffee to the thrill of a spontaneous upgrade, Leanne reflects on the everyday moments that make life sweet.This episode is all about appreciating the little things — whether it’s a fast Wi-Fi connection, the perfect avocado on toast, or the joy of inside jokes that never get old. Leanne also touches on the importance of home, meaningful connections, and having space in your calendar to breathe.Leanne invites you to share what you love too! Send her a note on social media or shoot her an email at hello@leannehughes.com.Highlights:The first sip of a perfect coffee ☕The joy of sending a killer idea 💡Coming home after a trip and appreciating your own space 🏡That glorious feeling of being upgraded on a flight ✈️The magic of spontaneous yeses to wild ideas 🎉Listen in to hear about these and more!Links:Connect with Leanne on LinkedInEmail Leanne: hello@leannehughes.comSign 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.

Feb 12, 2025 • 7min
🌴44. How to (legally) make $$$ off someone else’s idea
Not all great business ideas start from scratch—some of the smartest entrepreneurs simply bolt onto existing products and services to create something even better. Think about Jibbitz (the Crocs charms that sold for $10M) or the countless AirPods cases and accessories that piggyback off Apple’s products.In this episode, I explore the power of piggyback innovation (also called derivative innovation), sharing examples of people who’ve turned small, complementary ideas into massive businesses. From my own Apple AirTag keyring gift to the genius of a Melbourne hotel using Uber Eats to elevate its guest experience, we’ll uncover how small tweaks can lead to big wins.Could your next big idea already be sitting inside a product you use daily?What You’ll Learn in This Episode:✅ How a stay-at-home mum turned Crocs charms into a $10M business✅ Why innovation isn’t always about creating something new—but improving what already exists✅ Examples of everyday products and services that have spawned billion-dollar bolt-on businesses✅ A surprising Amazon discovery that made me rethink my own product strategy✅ How a boutique hotel in Melbourne piggybacked off Uber Eats to enhance customer experienceListener Prompts:🔹 What’s a product you use every day that could be improved with a simple add-on?🔹 Can you think of a trend or product that lacks a secondary market—but should have one?🔹 What’s something you’ve hacked together for yourself that others might pay for?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.

Feb 11, 2025 • 10min
🌴43. The book proposal that never made it off my desktop
This 46 page book proposal word doc has just sat on my desktop since 2022... today's the day I share it with you!As I revisit some of its core concepts, I reflect on why it didn't materialise and what might still be relevant today. The proposed book, tentatively titled 'Discoverability' or 'Charismatic Change', aims to revolutionise change management by promoting swift, effective, and charismatic change rather than traditional, slow approaches. I'll share a few key chapters and ideas, such as why 'Change Succeeds Only When People Change Too' and the importance of 'Working in Public'. This episode encourages you to examine your own dormant goals and think about what might deserve a second look. Tune in for some insightful takeaways and reflections on making impactful change in any organisation.00:00 Introduction and Abandoned Book Proposal00:34 Book Titles and Core Concepts01:09 Premise of the Book01:53 Target Audience and Table of Contents02:13 Chapter Highlights04:32 Marketing Strategy and Author Bio04:59 Introduction and Key Insights07:14 Work in Public Strategy08:49 Final 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.

Feb 10, 2025 • 6min
🌴42. Leanne’s (sneaky) tipping strategy
Let's tip (pun intended) typical tipping practices on its head. I'll share with you my personal journey, from working in pubs in the UK to how a hefty tip changed my own service approach. Learn why pre-tipping can act as an insurance policy for great service, how it flips the power dynamic in your favour, and why this rare strategy will make you stand out. I'll also touch on the importance of showing respect and generosity, especially in challenging times for the hospitality industry. Tune in to discover a subtle hack that could guarantee you better dining experiences / faster service, always.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.

Feb 9, 2025 • 12min
🌴41. The leader who changed my life
Thanks for tuning in! If you're wondering whether great leadership can truly transform someone's career and life trajectory, this episode is for you.What you'll learn:How a bold, unconventional CEO shaped a 25-year-old's entire approach to business and creativityThe power of asking "why not?" instead of "why?"Why pushing boundaries and taking immediate action can lead to extraordinary resultsJoin me as I share my experience working at Wicked Campers, a company that threw traditional business rules out the window. You'll hear how I transitioned from a structured corporate environment to a workplace where creativity knew no bounds - including a marketing campaign that quite literally stripped away convention!I believe you'll find this particularly valuable if you're:Feeling stuck in a process-driven organisationLooking for permission to think differentlyWanting to break free from analysis paralysisThis is just part one of my story about John Webb, a leader who handed me the keys to both a Porsche and my professional growth. Whether you're a leader yourself or aspiring to make an impact, these lessons might just change how you approach your next big idea.I'd love to hear about the leaders who've transformed your own journey. Drop me a line at hello@leannehughes.com or find me on LinkedIn and Instagram.Stay tuned for part two, where I'll share more insights from this transformative period in my career.P.S. If you're wondering about those controversial van slogans... well, you'll just have to listen to find 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.

Feb 8, 2025 • 33min
🌴40. Pivoting into public speaking feat. Jenny Blake (Weekend Rewind)
In this Weekend Rewind, host Leanne Hughes shares an enriching conversation with Jenny Blake, an influential figure in her career.Join Jenny Blake's incredible Substack: Rolling in D'Oh. Jenny, a renowned author and career strategist, discusses her experience working at Google and her transition to consulting. They dive into Jenny's latest book 'Free Time: Lose the Busy Work, Love Your Business' and the impactful concepts from her previous book 'Pivot'. You’ll discover Jenny’s practical tips on public speaking, creating engaging virtual workshops, and navigating career changes. Jenny also shares her four-stage pivot process: Plant, Scan, Pilot, and Launch—designed to help you make successful career transitions. Other highlights include Jenny’s memorable moments in New York City, her learnings from global travels, and inspiring role models in the speaking community. Tune in and learn how to effectively manage career pivots and turn challenges into growth opportunities.00:00 Introduction to Weekend Rewind00:01 Meet Jenny Blake: Influential Career Mentor00:49 Jenny Blake's Career Journey02:50 Pivoting at Google: Jenny's Story05:22 Overcoming Public Speaking Fears05:53 Facilitation and Training at Google10:05 The Power of Practice and Preparation12:33 Travel and Business Tips for Solopreneurs15:14 Engaging Virtual Workshops18:18 Career Pivot Strategies23:05 Creating Memorable Models and Frameworks26:09 Speaker Role Models and Inspirations29:50 Conclusion and FarewellSign 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.

Feb 7, 2025 • 25min
🌴39. The hidden cost of low self-esteem feat. Alan Weiss (Weekend Rewind)
We often talk about confidence, success, and reaching our full potential, but there's a hidden force that quietly undermines all of that: low self-esteem.In this Talk the Walk livestream, Alan Weiss and I explore the unspoken impact low self-esteem has on your career, relationships, and personal growth. We'll explore how this silent saboteur shows up in everyday decisions, keeps you playing small, and robs you of opportunities you might not even realise you're missing.But it’s not all doom and gloom!We’ll share practical strategies to recognise, challenge, and ultimately overcome the limiting beliefs that fuel low self-esteem.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.