The Dynamic Leader Podcast

In this episode, Shelley speaks with Gary Waldon, a transformational change specialist and self-confessed master of reinvention. With a colourful background that includes everything from topless waiter to lecturer, start-up founder and CEO advisor, Gary brings a wealth of lived experience to the conversation. As a passionate mental health advocate, Gary opens up about his personal journey through anxiety and depression. He’s also the author of Sort Your Sh!t Out and Mastering the Art of Reinvention, where he explores how we can adapt to life, AI and big transitions. Together, Gary and Shelley delve into the narratives we create around our past, how fast thinking can keep us stuck and the importance of unpacking old stories to move toward future opportunities.Grab a copy of Gary's book: https://www.garywaldon.com/Connect with Gary: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-waldon-aa000819/Connect with Shelley: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelleyflett/⁠⁠Work with Shelley: ⁠⁠https://shelleyflett.com ⁠Shelley books: https://www.shelleyflett.com/shop

In today’s episode, Shelley speaks with Cherie Mylordis about conscious unbossing—a fresh term capturing a shift in leadership that prioritises autonomy, collaboration and purpose. As a recognised expert in future-fit leadership and founder of nextgenify Academy, Cherie explores how outdated organisational models are being challenged by a new generation of leaders and workers seeking deeper meaning and contribution. Drawing on global trends and engagement research, Cherie explains that unbossing isn’t about eliminating leadership but evolving it—enabling dynamic leaders to create environments where people thrive, lead with clarity, influence and purpose and work in more agile, visible and collaborative ways. It’s about creating the conditions for meaningful contribution at every level.Connect with Cherie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cherie-mylordis/Cherie's website: https://nextgenify.com/Connect with Shelley: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelleyflett/⁠⁠Work with Shelley: ⁠⁠https://shelleyflett.com ⁠Shelley books: https://www.shelleyflett.com/shop

In this episode, Shelley speaks with Emanuel Pillay, a visionary change agent in sales, marketing and digital strategy, about the biggest challenges leaders will face in the future. With a track record of transforming organisations and championing open communication, Emanuel brings a fresh and future-focused perspective to leadership. Based in South Africa but travelling the world, he thrives on cultural exchange, asking unconventional questions and redefining what’s possible in business. Shelley and Emanuel explore their shared passion for fun,authenticity and meaningful impact—unpacking how playful experimentation leads to better learning, lighter leadership and stronger group dynamics.Connect with Emanuel: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emanuel-pillay-98600979/Connect with Shelley: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelleyflett/⁠⁠Work with Shelley: ⁠⁠https://shelleyflett.com ⁠Shelley books: https://www.shelleyflett.com/shop

In this episode, Shelley delves into the evolving nature of leadership by unpacking the powerful shift from constant “doing” to intentional “being.” She reflects on her own high-action tendencies, how they once served her—and how they eventually led to burnout. Shelley shares the personal insights gained from slowing down, recognising that leadership is no longer just about checking things off a list, but about creating space tothink, connect and lead with intention. She discusses how leaders can find their value beyond execution—bringing strategy, adaptability and presence to complex, changing environments. This conversation invites leaders to reconsider their motivational drivers, embrace the “be, do, have” mindset and explore how stepping out of relentless doing can ultimately lead to deeper impact and more sustainable progress.Connect with Shelley: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelleyflett/⁠⁠Work with Shelley: ⁠⁠https://shelleyflett.com ⁠Shelley books: https://www.shelleyflett.com/shop

In this episode, Shelley is joined by Chris Smith, a Brisbane-based leadership specialist, senior lecturer and aviation counsellor, to explore the surprising parallels between motorcycles and leadership. Bonded by a shared passion for two wheels, Chris and Shelley reflect on their personal journeys—from Chris’s early days riding a Honda CL90 through the Toowoomba bush, to Shelley’s upbringing on a farm surrounded by bikes and family road trips. Together, they dive into the way motorcyclists are perceived by the public—sometimes with fear or concern—and discuss the unique camaraderie and sense of belonging that exists within the riding community, drawing thought-provoking links to leadership, identity and human connection.Grab a copy of Chris's book: https://www.aculturalleadership.com/store/p/leadership-at-43000-feet-paperbackConnect with Chris:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-g-smith/Connect with Shelley: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelleyflett/⁠⁠Work with Shelley: ⁠⁠https://shelleyflett.com ⁠Shelley books: https://www.shelleyflett.com/shop

In this episode, Shelley sits down with Simi Rayat, a multi-award-winning global business psychologist and founder of Wellbeing Face, to explore the powerful intersection of productivity and joy. Simi shares her personal journey from the brink of burnout—feeling unfocused, overwhelmed and disconnected—to discovering how small daily practices, like five minutes of emotional check-in, can reignite focus and spark joy.With burnout costing Australian businesses up to $60 billion annually, this conversation is a timely reminder of the importance of emotional awareness, authentic leadership and creating moments of connection. Tune in as Shelley and Simi delve into how reconnecting with what truly matters can not only elevate your own wellbeing but also empower those around you through the ripple effect of joy.Grab a copy of Simi's book: https://simirayat.com/book/Connect with Simi: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simirayatbusinesspsychologist/Connect with Shelley: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelleyflett/⁠⁠Work with Shelley: ⁠⁠https://shelleyflett.com ⁠Shelley books: https://www.shelleyflett.com/shop

In today’s episode, Shelley is joined by Fran Southward, CEO of Auscontact, to reflect on the highlights and insights from their recent annual conference, themed around innovation, disruption and evolution. From the emotional and mental demands of organising such an event to the powerful impact of creating a truly present and tech-free space, Fran shares how attendees were challenged to shift their focus, connect more deeply and engage fully. With organisations investing in their people being away from the workplace, the goal was to ensure a meaningful return on that investment—encouraging presence, open-minded listening and fresh perspectives. Join Shelley and Fran as they unpack the bold decisions, unexpected reactions and lasting impressions of a conference designed to disrupt routine, elevate people practices and inspire real change.Connect with Fran: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fran-southward-82455b49/Learn more about Auscontact: https://www.auscontact.com.au/Connect with Shelley: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelleyflett/⁠⁠Work with Shelley: ⁠⁠https://shelleyflett.com ⁠Shelley books: https://www.shelleyflett.com/shop

In this episode, Shelley sits down with Hannes van Rensburg to explore the transformative power of care in leadership. Alongside his partner Siew-Fang, Hannes co-authored The Power of Care and co-founded the leadership consultancy Bento Box of Care, which champions the importance ofleading with compassion and purpose. Reflecting on a pivotal moment in 2008 while drafting afive-year plan and overseeing workplace health and safety, Hannes began to understand the deep connection between organisational culture and genuine care. This sparked a journey toward what he now calls a Culture of Care. Together, Shelley and Hannes dive into the Bento Box model and discuss how care—often sidelined in high-pressure leadership roles—can be the key to inspiring meaningful change, maintaining personal wellbeing, and reshaping the boundaries between leaders and their teams.Grab a copy of Hannes & Siew's book: https://bentoboxofcare.com/Connect with Hannes: linkedin.com/in/hannes-van-rensburg-56311160Connect with Shelley: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelleyflett/⁠⁠Work with Shelley: ⁠⁠https://shelleyflett.com ⁠Shelley books: https://www.shelleyflett.com/shop

Shelley continues celebrating 10 years in business with Part 2! If you missed Part 1, catch up to hear about her journey, insights, and some honest reflections on leadership.In this episode, she dives into the next 5 of the top 10 leadership questions she's received, sharing the beliefs that have helped her grow with compassion and kindness over the past decade. Here’s a sneak peek at what she covers:✨ The 5 core beliefs that guide her leadership, including:Understanding that everyone sees the world differentlyRemembering everyone is doing their best with the resources they haveBelieving people are well-intendedTrusting you’re exactly where you’re supposed to beRecognising that what annoys you in others might be a growth opportunity for yourself💡 Plus, she answers questions on:How leaders can truly motivate and engage teams (hint: it’s about helping people find their own motivation)The real impact leaders have on shaping organisational culture (it’s all in the small moments and how you show up)Why leadership development often falls short-and what we can do to make it stickIf you’re passionate about leadership, growth, and creating positive change, this episode is for you. Listen in and let’s keep leading with strength and kindness!  Connect with Shelley: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelleyflett/⁠⁠⁠⁠Work with Shelley: ⁠⁠⁠⁠https://shelleyflett.com ⁠⁠⁠Shelley books: ⁠⁠https://www.shelleyflett.com/shop

Shelley left her corporate career in May 2015 so in this episode she shares some reflections of her journey.She has also taking on the task of answering the top 10 leadership questions - five are answered in this episode and the remaining five will be answered in episode #239.Connect with Shelley: ⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelleyflett/⁠⁠⁠Work with Shelley: ⁠⁠⁠https://shelleyflett.com ⁠⁠Shelley books: ⁠https://www.shelleyflett.com/shop