Leading by Nature

Hosted by Giles Hutchins

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Aug 2026

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About the show

In this podcast series, executive coach, keynote speaker and author, Giles Hutchins, interviews pioneering leaders from diverse organisations, exploring future fit leadership and organisational development. Each episode, Giles and an esteemed guest will discuss the inner nature and outer nature of their respective organisation and the inner and outer nature of themselves as a leader, as they journey toward regenerative futures. For more information on Leading by Nature, you can follow Giles Hutchins on LinkedIn, or visit gileshutchins.com for free downloads of tools and practices for regenerative leadership and future fit business. And watch out for his book, Leading by Nature: The Process of Becoming a Regenerative Leader. Giles' latest book is Keys for Future Fit Leadership - From Coping to Thriving Amid Rising Complexity , which can be purchased directly from the sustainable/local publishers here and shipped globally, and you can watch a short video about it here . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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60 recent

August 21, 202624 min

Russell Smith: Major Capital Energy Projects Advisor & Moving Beyond Ambassador

On this episode of Leading by Nature, Russell Smith joins Giles Hutchins for a wide-ranging conversation about purpose, transformation and the future of leadership in the energy sector. Russell reflects on the personal reason for being that has guided both his life and career - a deep curiosity, a passion for integration and a “courageous optimism” about the future. He also opens up about two deeply significant life events that reshaped his outlook, sharing the lessons they taught him about resilience, perspective and what truly matters. The conversation explores the changing landscape of the net zero movement, with Russell explaining why many of the most exciting and impactful innovations are now being driven by startups rather than traditional oil giants. Together, Russell and Giles discuss the importance of adaptive leadership, systems thinking and creating space for new ideas to flourish in times of major change. Russell also shares what makes Springwood such a meaningful place for reflection and connection, why Nature Works resonates so strongly with him, and how the Japanese concept of Ikigai has influenced the way he approaches life and work. For more information on Leading by Nature, you can follow Giles Hutchins on LinkedIn, or visit gileshutchins.com for free downloads of tools and practices for regenerative leadership and future fit business. And watch out for his book, Leading by Nature: The Process of Becoming a Regenerative Leader. Giles' latest book is Keys for Future Fit Leadership - From Coping to Thriving Amid Rising Complexity , which can be purchased directly from the sustainable/local publishers here and shipped globally, and you can watch a short video about it here . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

August 7, 202638 min

Kaj Löfgren: CEO of Regen Melbourne

In this episode, Giles is joined by Kaj Löfgren, CEO of Regen Melbourne, to explore how regenerative leadership can help communities and cities thrive in an era of growing complexity and disruption. Drawing on his work leading one of the world’s pioneering city-wide regenerative initiatives, Kaj shares how Regen Melbourne emerged from the twin crises of Australia’s Black Summer bushfires and the COVID-19 pandemic. Together, Giles and Kaj discuss the power of place-based collaboration, the importance of balancing structure with emergence, and why meaningful systems change requires both urgent action and long-term patience. They also explore applying living systems frames to systems change, the role of inner development in creating outer change, and why cultivating relationships, hope and shared purpose may be the foundations of a truly regenerative future. To learn more about Kaj’s work and Regen Melbourne, visit https://regen.melbourne/ For more information on Leading by Nature, you can follow Giles Hutchins on LinkedIn, or visit gileshutchins.com for free downloads of tools and practices for regenerative leadership and future fit business. And watch out for his book, Leading by Nature: The Process of Becoming a Regenerative Leader. Giles' latest book is Keys for Future Fit Leadership - From Coping to Thriving Amid Rising Complexity , which can be purchased directly from the sustainable/local publishers here and shipped globally, and you can watch a short video about it here . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

July 23, 202615 min

Embodying Future-Fitness

In this special solo episode, Giles Hutchins explores what it truly means to embody future-fitness in an age of accelerating change, uncertainty and AI. Drawing on ideas from his latest books, Nature Works and Keys for Future Fit Leadership, Giles unpacks why our greatest leadership advantage lies not in doing more, but in cultivating greater presence, awareness and flow. Discover how viewing the body as a living instrument can deepen self and systemic awareness, why flow is becoming an essential leadership capability, and how everyday moments offer opportunities to build resilience, creativity and authentic connection. A thought-provoking listen for leaders, changemakers and anyone seeking to navigate complexity with greater wisdom, courage and humanity. For more information on Leading by Nature, you can follow Giles Hutchins on LinkedIn, or visit gileshutchins.com for free downloads of tools and practices for regenerative leadership and future fit business. And watch out for his book, Leading by Nature: The Process of Becoming a Regenerative Leader. Giles' latest book is Keys for Future Fit Leadership - From Coping to Thriving Amid Rising Complexity , which can be purchased directly from the sustainable/local publishers here and shipped globally, and you can watch a short video about it here . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

July 9, 202631 min

Laura Storm: Founder of Regenerators and Co-Author of Regenerative Leadership

In this episode, Giles is joined by regenerative leadership pioneer, founder of Regenerators and co-author of Regenerative Leadership , Laura Storm, to reflect on seven years since the publication of their groundbreaking book and explore what regenerative leadership means in an increasingly uncertain world. Drawing on her work with thousands of leaders through Regenerators Academy, Laura shares the growing need for connection, deep listening and life-affirming ways of leading amidst rising complexity. Together, Giles and Laura discuss the evolution of the regenerative leadership movement, the challenges of navigating fear, uncertainty and the rapid rise of AI, and why cultivating inner awareness is more important than ever. They also explore the power of meaningful co-creation, the importance of creating spaces for reflection and renewal, and why hope is found not in waiting for change, but in individuals choosing to lead with courage, purpose and service to life. For more information on Leading by Nature, you can follow Giles Hutchins on LinkedIn, or visit gileshutchins.com for free downloads of tools and practices for regenerative leadership and future fit business. And watch out for his book, Leading by Nature: The Process of Becoming a Regenerative Leader. Giles' latest book is Keys for Future Fit Leadership - From Coping to Thriving Amid Rising Complexity , which can be purchased directly from the sustainable/local publishers here and shipped globally, and you can watch a short video about it here . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

June 25, 202631 min

Kenzie Barth: Social Entrepreneur & Founder of Casa Awanima & Steward of Tuqtuquilal

In this episode, Giles is joined by social entrepreneur, founder of Casa Awanima and steward of Tuqtuquilal, Kenzie Barth, to explore how reconnecting with nature can transform the way we create, lead and live. Drawing on her journey from building a successful digital media company in New York to creating regenerative land projects in Guatemala, Kenzie shares how working with the intelligence of nature, local communities and the wisdom of place has reshaped her understanding of entrepreneurship and leadership. Together, Giles and Kenzie discuss the shift from mechanistic approaches to business towards a more regenerative way rooted in relationship, listening and collaboration. They also explore the lessons of cacao as a teacher of connection, the importance of integrating ambition with ecological awareness, and why slowing down and working with the rhythms of life may hold the key to a more sustainable future. For more information on Leading by Nature, you can follow Giles Hutchins on LinkedIn, or visit gileshutchins.com for free downloads of tools and practices for regenerative leadership and future fit business. And watch out for his book, Leading by Nature: The Process of Becoming a Regenerative Leader. Giles' latest book is Keys for Future Fit Leadership - From Coping to Thriving Amid Rising Complexity , which can be purchased directly from the sustainable/local publishers here and shipped globally, and you can watch a short video about it here . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

June 12, 202635 min

Kelly Wendorf: Founder, Author & CEO of EQUUS

In this episode, Giles is joined by author, entrepreneur, Equus founder and author of Flying Lead Change, Kelly Wendorf, to explore how nature can help us become more resilient, authentic and future-fit leaders. Drawing on decades of experience working alongside horses, Kelly shares the remarkable lessons these highly social animals offer about leadership, culture and thriving through change. Together, Giles and Kelly discuss the shift from control-based leadership to a more regenerative approach rooted in care, presence and connection. They also explore why resistance and “tribal shaming” often accompany personal transformation, how organisations can be understood as living systems, and why disruption may be the very catalyst needed for growth and evolution. Kelly is offering listeners free access to her online course, " How to Lead a Transformative Life". Visit: https://www.theequusacademy.org/courses/how-to-lead-a-transformative-life-2026 and use the coupon code EQUUS100KW at checkout to enrol for free. For more information on Leading by Nature, you can follow Giles Hutchins on LinkedIn, or visit gileshutchins.com for free downloads of tools and practices for regenerative leadership and future fit business. And watch out for his book, Leading by Nature: The Process of Becoming a Regenerative Leader. Giles' latest book is Keys for Future Fit Leadership - From Coping to Thriving Amid Rising Complexity , which can be purchased directly from the sustainable/local publishers here and shipped globally, and you can watch a short video about it here . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 29, 202631 min

Damian Thornton: Vice Chairman of European Consumer Investment Banking at Piper Sandler & Director of Make-A-Wish International

On this episode of Leading by Nature, Damian Thornton joins Giles Hutchins for a deeply reflective conversation on purpose, identity and what it means to lead with humanity in a rapidly changing world. Damian shares his journey through the high-pressure world of investment banking at Piper Sandler, exploring how technology, AI and shifting attitudes towards work are reshaping both business and society. Together, Damian and Giles discuss the growing importance of becoming comfortable with who we are, rather than defining ourselves purely by achievement or status. The conversation also delves into Damian’s personal growth journey, including the transformative impact of coaching, lessons learned from time spent in nature, and how experiences of failure have helped shape his perspective on leadership and life. For more information on Leading by Nature, you can follow Giles Hutchins on LinkedIn, or visit gileshutchins.com for free downloads of tools and practices for regenerative leadership and future fit business. And watch out for his book, Leading by Nature: The Process of Becoming a Regenerative Leader. Giles' latest book is Keys for Future Fit Leadership - From Coping to Thriving Amid Rising Complexity , which can be purchased directly from the sustainable/local publishers here and shipped globally, and you can watch a short video about it here . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 15, 202620 min

Hayley Morris: Social Entrepreneur and Co-Founder of the Keys for Future Fit Leadership Academy

In this episode of Leading by Nature, Giles Hutchins is joined by Hayley Morris, social entrepreneur and Co-Founder of the Keys for Future Fit Leadership Academy, for a conversation about transformational learning, purpose-led leadership and reconnecting with life. Hayley shares the vision behind launching the academy and how its work guides transformational learning journeys for purpose-led leaders navigating complexity and change. Drawing from her unique vantage point across coaching, philanthropy and purpose-led work in Australia, Hayley reflects on the inner and outer shifts she’s witnessing in leaders today as well as the personal transformations she has experienced herself. The conversation also celebrates the launch of the new KFFLA podcast, expanding these conversations to a wider community of future-fit leaders. You can listen here: https://podfollow.com/keys-for-future-fit-leadership-academy or visit KFFLA.co For more information on Leading by Nature, you can follow Giles Hutchins on LinkedIn, or visit gileshutchins.com for free downloads of tools and practices for regenerative leadership and future fit business. And watch out for his book, Leading by Nature: The Process of Becoming a Regenerative Leader. Giles' latest book is Keys for Future Fit Leadership - From Coping to Thriving Amid Rising Complexity , which can be purchased directly from the sustainable/local publishers here and shipped globally, and you can watch a short video about it here . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

May 1, 202627 min

Will Cadbury: CFO, Noble Foods & Trustee, Bournville Village Trust

In this episode of Leading by Nature, Giles Hutchins is joined by Will Cadbury, who shares how Noble Foods is evolving its culture around a new purpose: to better nourish people, animals and the planet. He reflects on the internal and external pressures that come with embedding purpose into an established business, and what it really takes to bring people on that journey. Drawing on his family’s ties to Bournville Village Trust, Will also explores the enduring relevance of Quaker values and how a vision set in motion over 125 years ago, with space for nature at its heart, offers a powerful blueprint for future-fit thinking today. The conversation also touches on Will’s own leadership journey, the qualities needed to lead in uncertain times, and why his key advice is simple but often overlooked: creating the time and space to become the right kind of leader. For more information on Leading by Nature, you can follow Giles Hutchins on LinkedIn, or visit gileshutchins.com for free downloads of tools and practices for regenerative leadership and future fit business. And watch out for his book, Leading by Nature: The Process of Becoming a Regenerative Leader. Giles' latest book is Keys for Future Fit Leadership - From Coping to Thriving Amid Rising Complexity , which can be purchased directly from the sustainable/local publishers here and shipped globally, and you can watch a short video about it here . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

April 17, 202627 min

Phil Hails-Smith: Managing Partner at Joelson

In this episode of Leading by Nature, Giles Hutchins is joined by Phil Hails-Smith, Managing Partner at Joelson, as the firm celebrates its 70th year in operation. Phil reflects on how Joelson has evolved into a purpose-led business and why embedding purpose creates meaning across every aspect of the organisation. He shares how the firm works closely with founders and entrepreneurs, helping them scale and grow in ways that are both commercially successful and sustainable. The conversation also explores the opportunities and tensions created by AI, from its transformative potential to the cognitive dissonance many leaders feel as technology accelerates faster than our ability to adapt. Phil explains why he’s passionate about using business as a force to push forward new ways of thinking, and how Joelson became part of the first wave of law firms to achieve B Corp status. And finally, Phil reflects on what resonated most from Keys for Future-Fit Leadership and what it means to lead in a way that balances performance, purpose and responsibility. For more information on Leading by Nature, you can follow Giles Hutchins on LinkedIn, or visit gileshutchins.com for free downloads of tools and practices for regenerative leadership and future fit business. And watch out for his book, Leading by Nature: The Process of Becoming a Regenerative Leader. Giles' latest book is Keys for Future Fit Leadership - From Coping to Thriving Amid Rising Complexity , which can be purchased directly from the sustainable/local publishers here and shipped globally, and you can watch a short video about it here . Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.