When I was considering the 10 top podcasts from 2020, from Superstar Communicator, I was overwhelmed by the quality of the guests; the response from listeners, and being inspired by the whole process of podcasting. One great way to end the year is that there have now been over 50,000 downloads of the podcast, from listeners all over the world.
I had originally planned a series of exciting interviews and masterclasses for the year, but the pandemic and subsequent lockdown meant that there was a clear need to provide support and ideas for working in a virtual, remote way. Many of the subsequent episodes reflected this.
Another point was that I was challenged to celebrate Black History Month in October; and as a result featured outstanding guests from the Black community in the United Kingdom. Also, a couple of people approached me to ask how we could all be more inclusive – ensuring that those with invisible disabilities and specific challenges, could be included in any conversation. Hence my interviewing Beth Hartley. And now, newly launched episodes include a link to download the transcript for more inclusion.
So you can understand why my challenge of choosing 10 top podcasts from 2020 was immense. You might disagree with my choices, and I apologise to any guest who wasn’t named: you were all amazing and I am so grateful to you. If you want to look at all of the podcasts go to the podcast page.
The first podcast I wanted to include was an interview on being more visible with Sara Ali Choudhury. Sara is a phenomenon; you can’t help notice or love her. She is beautiful with an energy and enthusiasm, and she generously shared many brilliant tips for us all to try out. Listen here
Next we have a brilliant interview with Penny Pullan, who wrote “Virtual Leadership”. It was such a relevant interview for everyone who was leading or working remotely. She shared many incredible tips to ensure you could work more efficiently. Listen here.
I am a great fan of Joe McCormack. I have read both of his books and use some of his findings on “speaking briefly” in my work. It was particularly relevant when we started working virtually. This is an interview full of gems. Listen here.
In April, I interviewed Paralympian: in TWO sports, Darren Harris. We were able to bring the conversation to managing your anxiety and stress during the first lockdown, and the ways he managed his nerves before competing at the Paralympics. This was one of the most popular episodes of the year and there was so much content of value to share. Listen here.
One of the most moving interviews this year was with Bob Kulhan. He was dialling in from New York and had already been in lockdown for two months. It was a very frightening time for him – and also his assistant who was in Manhattan. Unfortunately the quality of the sound was poor but the quality of the interview is truly inspiring. Listen here.
Next we have an interview with Beth Hartley who assisted me and listeners to consider how we can include everyone in conversations. Beth is profoundly deaf and is an activist to ensure people know about the challenges people like her face. As a result of this interview, I have now pledged to include transcripts of podcasts readily available. Ironically many diversity and inclusion podcasts don’t include this! Listen here.
Carol Stewart is a long time friend and someone I have always admired. During Black History Month we discussed the value of a more diverse work force and what we can all do to make this happen. Listen here.
As a Superstar Communicator, I am particularly interested in conversations we have. In life we don’t always have conversations with those we like or even those who have the same values as us. But it is important to develop great ‘conversation’ skills in order to be a great human being. I was therefore thrilled when Fred Dust’s PR company approached me to interview Fred. He has just released a book “Making Conversation”. The interview is a joy and I left the conversation with so many ideas. Listen here.
For a long time I have been aware of how financial worries impact our wellbeing. So as part of Black History Month, I was pleased to invite Peter Komalafe to discuss how to have good “Money Conversations”. A wonderful interview. Listen here.
Clare Suttie is an amazing lady. She has a successful business; three school aged children – one of whom is adopted and with specific needs. She also leads a number of community charity initiatives. She is a natural leader. In this interview, she shares some top tips for leading diverse teams – including volunteers. Listen here.
It really was a struggle choosing 10 top podcasts from 2020; and I know that I have missed some incredible ones. Thank you to all of the guests who were amazing. Listen to all of the podcasts including those I missed from this list here.
2021 The Year of Saying Yes