The Dynamic Leader Podcast

With the rise of AI-assisted written communication toolsthat enhance our written expression, many have shifted away from verbal communication, potentially losing the art of authentic speech. In this discussion, Shelley is joined by Deanna Cooney, a 20-year veteran in the voice-over and acting industry, as well as a voice and speaking coach in WA specialising in practical voice-over skills. Together, they explore verbal communication from a leadership perspective, the impact of over-preparation on authenticity, conversational flow and active listening. Deanna also shares insights on trusting yourself to communicate effectively in the moment and how to identify key points to present relevant information with confidence.Connect with Deanna: https://www.linkedin.com/in/deannacooney/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 conversation, we’re redefining workplace wellness for the modern world with Dr. Elizabeth Kirk, founder of Beyond Ergo—one of Australia’s leading experts in behavior-based office ergonomics and injury prevention. Liz is on a mission to reshape how we work and care for ourselves in the digital age, drawing on research into the health risks of tech-driven, sedentary work. Join Shelley and Liz as they explore simple yet effective ways to release shoulder tension and improve posture using the three-step method—Roll, Reset, Relax—integrating ergonomics, stretching, and aerobic exercise to relieve tension headaches and shoulder pain.Connect with Liz: https://beyondergo.com.au/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabethkirktraining/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, the tables have turned and Shelley is interviewed by, friend and colleague, Viren Thakrar on conflict.Viren, founder, facilitator and product manager of In the Game, brings 17 years of experience in psychology, collaborative design and facilitation to help organisations foster value-led cultures. In this discussion, Shelley shares the importance of conflict—why it excites her, why it’s necessary and how to navigate it effectively. She explains that cohesion is the goal, but conflict is the vehicle that gets us there. Together, Shelley and Viren take us through the spectrum of conflict, from "playing nice"—where excessive agreeability stifles challenge and growth—to the risks of unspoken disagreements leading to resentment and disengagement. They emphasise the need for open, value-aligned conversations where differing perspectives are communicated clearly to build stronger, more engaged teams.Connect with Viren: https://www.linkedin.com/in/virenthakrar/https://inthegame.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 a world filled with uncertainty and ambiguity, fear and insecurity can take hold when we’re unsure of what lies ahead. Simon, as a leading geographer and demographer, provides clarity by showing how human behaviour follows predictable patterns tied to life stages. Through demographic insights, he helps us understand how societal shifts, economic trends and political factors shape Australia and the World. While the key drivers remain constant, Simon examines behavioural changes and evolving values to reveal their impact. His insights offer practical guidance for managing organisations and leading teams—cutting through the noise to focus on what truly matters.Connect with Simon: https://www.linkedin.com/in/simonkuestenmacherConnect with Shelley: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelleyflett/⁠⁠Work with Shelley: ⁠⁠https://shelleyflett.com ⁠Shelley books: https://www.shelleyflett.com/shop

In this episode, I chat with Glin Bayley, known as the Value Negotiator, a non-executive director, self-leadership coach, author, and speaker. Glin’s unique approach to negotiation is rooted in the belief that it's not just about what you do, but who you become in the process.Famous for herGlin & Tonic events—intimate connection circles designed for deep conversations—she is passionate about guiding others in growth and value creation. Writing is her tool for reflection, and through herGlin & Tonic blog, she shares insights on authenticity and self-expression.In this discussion, Glin and Shelley explore how sharing personal insights can open up deeper dialogue—not just in negotiations with others but also within ourselves—unlocking new possibilities for growth, meaningful relationships, and sustainable success.Grab a copy of Glin's book: https://www.thevaluenegotiator.com/playbookConnect with Glin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/glinbayley/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 Fran Southward about disrupting leadership approaches and driving meaningful change. As a change agent with a proven track record in connected engagement and leadership, Fran has been aligned with Shelley for the past nine years. With expertise in Contact Centre design and optimisation, she brings extensive stakeholder engagement experience as CEO of the peak industry body for Australia’s Contact Centre sector. This year’s Auscontact Conference in Melbourne focuses oninnovation, disruption and evolution—sparking strategic and controversial conversations to drive real organisational outcomes. With technology not being the only solution, the industry is embracing innovation, challenging conventional practices and expanding thought leadership to redefine the future of the operating craft.Register for the Auscontact National Conference: https://www.auscontact.com.au/Web/Web/Activities/Event_Display.aspx?EventKey=NATCONF25 Connect with Fran: https://www.linkedin.com/in/fran-southward-82455b49/Connect with Shelley: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelleyflett/⁠⁠Work with Shelley: ⁠⁠https://shelleyflett.com ⁠Shelley books: https://www.shelleyflett.com/shop

Today, Shelley is speaking with Steve Vamos on leading through disruption and change. With 40 years of experience in global technology and digital media, Steve has held leadership roles as CEO of Xero, CEO of Ninemsn and Managing Director of Apple Asia Pacific and he serves as a non-executive director on multiple boards. As the author of Through Shifts and Shocks: Lessons from the Front Line of Technology and Change, Steve will share insights on navigating disruption, the critical role of the How in executing change and the challenges of turning common sense into common practice. He emphasises that while people are an organisation’s greatest asset, aligning individual objectives with business purpose, priorities, resources and technology is key—yet often difficult to achieve. As businesses scale, ensuring alignment becomes even more crucial, as misalignment is what ultimately leads to failure. Steve’s perspective highlights that our mindset and actions in response to change determine our success, making adaptability, teamwork and collaboration essential for meaningful progress. Grab a copy of Steve's book: https://www.stevevamos.com/ Connect with Steve: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevevamos/ Connect with Shelley: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelleyflett/⁠⁠ Work with Shelley: ⁠⁠https://shelleyflett.com ⁠ Shelley's books: https://www.shelleyflett.com/shop

In this episode, I speak with Jenny Brockis, a Board-Certified Medicine Practitioner and workplace health and leadership consultant, about her book The Natural Advantage and the profound benefits of reconnecting with nature. Jenny works with business leaders, professionals and individuals to inspire positive lifestyle changes that enhance health and wellbeing. We discuss how spending more time outdoors can reduce stress, improve overall health and boost social connections. Jenny highlights the evolutionary bond humans share with nature and the negative impacts of urban living, such as stress, irritability, poor sleep and diminished happiness. She shares practical ways to overcome nature deficiency, no matter our location and explains how nature can transform both body and mind, leading to a richer, more fulfilling life. Grab a copy of Julie's books: https://drjennybrockis.com/shop-2/ Connect with Julie: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drjennybrockis/ Connect with Shelley: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelleyflett/⁠⁠ Work with Shelley: ⁠⁠https://shelleyflett.com ⁠ Shelley shop: https://www.shelleyflett.com/shop

In today’s episode, Shelley welcomes internationally acclaimed keynote speaker and business philosopher Anders Indset to discuss creating a high-performance team culture. A Norwegian-born author of multiple Spiegel bestsellers, deep tech investor and former elite athlete, Anders brings a unique perspective on the intersection of leadership, philosophy and exponential technologies. He argues that in an era of almost unlimited access to knowledge, the ability to anticipate future scenarios, foster deeper understanding and cultivate interpersonal skills has become essential for executives. Shelley and Anders explore the shift from traditional management frameworks to navigating a world shaped by AI and rapid technological growth, where understanding ethics, philosophy and the paradoxes of human thought are crucial for effective leadership. Grab a copy of Anders book: https://andersindset.com/books/ Connect with Anders: https://www.linkedin.com/in/andersindset/ Connect with Shelley: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelleyflett/⁠⁠ Work with Shelley: ⁠⁠https://shelleyflett.com ⁠

In 2025, Shelley’s key focus is sustainability, acknowledging its theoretical simplicity but practical complexity. Sustainability is deeply personal, with no universal approach, as it involves navigating numerous variables to find a balance that aligns with one’s values. Shelley encourages starting by answering a profound question: “What do I truly want for myself?” By imagining life without barriers or constraints, one can identify their genuine desires and vision for an all-encompassing life. Shelley highlights the importance of focusing on what you do want, rather than what you don’t, reinforcing the idea that “energy flows where attention goes.” By aligning your attention with your goals, you can create relevance and connection in your efforts, paving the way toward a more sustainable and fulfilling life. Grab a copy of Shelley's book: https://www.shelleyflett.com/shop Connect with Shelley: ⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/shelleyflett/⁠⁠ Work with Shelley: ⁠⁠https://shelleyflett.com ⁠