Beyond Potential

Ep 44: Celebrating one year of Beyond Potential

We're celebrating one year of Beyond Potential.

In this episode, we discuss the journey we've had so far after 44 episodes. We reflect on how much we've enjoyed the last year, how the experience differed from our expectations, and the many things we've learned along the way - including the art of asking good interview questions.

We've welcomed fantastic guests onto the podcast in the last 12 months, and want to thank them all for being brave, sharing their stories and teaching us new insights.

And a big thank you to our listeners too. We always welcome your feedback, please share it with us by emailing: info@beyond-potential.co.uk.

Enjoy the episode, and here's to making it to episode 100!

More about our leadership programme here: https://beyond-potential.co.uk/

Ep 43: The next chapter: expanding Beyond Potential

We have big news to share. What began as a podcast between two friends has grown into a bold new venture. Beyond Potential is now a leadership development and executive education firm dedicated to shaping the next generation of business leaders.

Bringing together our collective expertise into one exciting brand, as Beyond Potential, Tom and Tom are partnering with organisations and leaders across the UK and beyond to enhance leadership capability, build high-performing teams, and drive business success.

Their approach is grounded in real-world experience and evidence-based practice, brought to life through immersive learning tailored to the realities of modern leadership.

In this episode, they introduce the Beyond Potential Leadership Programme — a high-impact development journey for senior leaders and high-potential talent.

We discuss the journey so far, from podcast to flagship programme. Revealing the unique aspects of the programme and explaining how we can tailor it to your business's needs.

Listen and learn about the six core areas of business, people and self-leadership that the programme covers.

Find out more and enquire about the Beyond Potential Programme here: https://beyond-potential.co.uk/

Ep 42: The journey to intentional leadership - with guest Dave Stachowiak

In this episode of Beyond Potential, Tom and Tom are joined by Dave Stachowiak, host of the hugely successful Coaching for Leaders podcast (with over 40 million downloads). For regular listeners, you’ll know just how much we admire Dave’s work; we’ve referenced him countless times on Beyond Potential, so having him as a guest on the show is quite the ‘pinch me’ moment.

 

From a shy introvert who dreaded public speaking to one of the most trusted voices in leadership development, Dave shares his personal story of becoming a more intentional, empathetic leader. With insights from his early struggles in management, to the pivotal role Dale Carnegie played in his development, and how leaders can bridge the gap between knowing and doing.

 

We explore how to move from knowledge to action, why “trying less” might help you grow more, and how small, consistent steps can lead to lasting behaviour change. We also unpack the importance of reflection and how intentional behaviour change can drive performance, all with the humility and clarity that have made Dave’s podcast essential listening for leaders around the world.

 

Connect with Dave on LinkedIn.

Find out more about the Coaching for Leaders podcast

Ep 41: How to navigate significant change

In this Toms Talk episode we focus on ways to manage big changes in your life and your career.

We discuss:

• The emotional responses to change
• How talking these feelings out can help you to process them
• Ways to approach decision-making in a structured way

Have a listen for some practical steps you can take when faced with significant change.

Enjoy the episode!

Ep 40: The importance of finding meaning in your work - with guest Gary Armstrong

In this week's Beyond Potential episode, we interview Gary Armstrong, a coach and consultant specialising in leadership development. 

Gary explains the concept of 'stuckness' - the ways individuals and teams can get stuck behaviourally and environmentally - and the importance of finding meaning and purpose in our work.

In this conversation, he shares insights on how coaching can help individuals navigate career paths, especially during midlife transitions. We discuss the transformative impact of leadership development programmes, how the right person at the right time can significantly impact a person's career, and why it's so important to stay humble and keep learning in a volatile world.

He also explains how running serves as a metaphor for life, through effort and reward!

You can find out more about Gary via:

His website: https://www.pinnaclecoaching.net/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gary-armstrong-1002a4/ 

Ep 39: The role of radical candour in driving growth - with guest Chris Marr

This week we're joined by the brilliant Chris Marr, The Authoritative Coach and the author of Become an Authoritative Coach: Stop people pleasing, challenge your clients, and be indispensable.

In this powerful episode of Beyond Potential, we unpack the real challenges of modern coaching. From the fine line between coaching and consulting to the role of radical candour in driving growth. 

We talk candidly about the discomfort of growth, the trap of people pleasing, and why communication is the cornerstone of every great coaching relationship. Whether you’re a coach, consultant or just curious about personal development, this episode offers fresh insight and practical reflection.

You can find out more about Chris via:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/theauthoritativecoach/

His website https://theauthoritativecoach.com/.

You can also buy his book here.

 

Ep 38: Energy, introversion and authentic leadership - with guest Sarah Manley

In this energising episode of Beyond Potential, Tom Emery speaks with Sarah Manley, author, coach, and speaker, known as The Quiet Catalyst. Sarah shares her journey from high-powered roles in healthcare marketing to becoming a powerful voice for introverts in the workplace. Through life pivots, pandemic reflections, and the therapeutic process of writing her book 'Quiet Catalyst: The introvert's guide to thriving in your career', Sarah has built a thriving coaching practice grounded in practical wisdom and quiet strength.

Together, Tom and Sarah explore how self-awareness and energy management play vital roles in both personal effectiveness and team collaboration. Whether you’re an introvert navigating extroverted workspaces, or a leader looking to better support a neurodiverse team, this episode is packed with insight. Expect thoughtful conversation on how to create inclusive dynamics, the importance of ‘micro boosts’, and how to talk more openly about what drains or fuels you, without fear or fluff.

It's a great episode, we hope you enjoy it as much as we enjoyed the conversation.

Connect with Sarah on LinkedIn

 

Ep 37: Challenging the norm: How maverick leaders shape culture with guest Brian Gorman

In this episode of Beyond Potential, Tom E sits down with Brian Gorman, seasoned coach and champion of Maverick Leaders, for a conversation that’s both deeply insightful and refreshingly human. Brian unpacks the true drivers of organisational change—not strategy or structure, but people—and reveals why storytelling, rooted in neuroscience, is a vital leadership tool in today’s world.

Together, they explore what it means to lead post-COVID, in a climate where emotional intelligence, flexible working, and human connection are no longer ‘nice to have’ but essential for survival. Brian shares why the four-day work week might not just boost productivity, but also help attract top talent, and introduces us to the Maverick Leader—a bold, emotionally intelligent changemaker unafraid to challenge the status quo.

Expect practical takeaways and a compelling call to rethink the story you’re telling yourself as a leader.

You can connect with Brian on LinkedIn and find out more on his website.