The Company Doctor

Hosted by Gary Gamp & George Clode

Business Management

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108

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May 2026

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About the show

Welcome to The Company Doctor; the podcast that diagnoses business challenges, and prescribes practical, forward-thinking solutions.The show is a biweekly, 25-minute hit of eye-opening, horizon-expanding advice, knowledge and key takeaways to implement straight away - all expertly curated for those at the forefront of leading growth and change within business. From accelerating start-up entrepreneurs and ambitious leaders inspiring teams, to managers implementing growth solutions - wherever you're starting from, we’ll give you the shortcuts and knowledge you need to navigate the ever-changing business landscape, by helping companies improve performance, and people, their careers. https://thecompanydoctor.com/

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June 15, 2026Episode 10823 min

The Evolving Role Of The COO Linked To Diversity In Tech #108

Welcome to another episode of The Company Doctor! This week, we are thrilled to be joined by Fiona Richards, Group COO of the Ephelia Group. With a career spanning traditional banking giants like Deutsche Bank and HSBC, Fiona now sits at the bleeding edge of payment technologies, blockchain, and AI.The role of the Chief Operating Officer is evolving fast. It’s no longer just about back-office efficiencies and controls; it’s about knitting together technology, compliance, customer service, and commercial priorities to execute a founder's vision. But how do you build a culture capable of delivering that? And how do you navigate "crypto bro" stereotypes to build a genuinely diverse tech workforce?In this episode, Fiona faces the George Clode Grill, sharing her operational wisdom on everything from unlearning old banking habits to using AI to elevate (not eliminate) entry-level talent. Plus, she explains why "diversity of thought" will always be the ultimate competitive advantage.Key takeaways from this episode:The Modern COO: The role has shifted from just back-office control to managing a complex spectrum of technology, compliance, and commercial verticals. Flexibility is the name of the game.Visions aren't "Eureka" moments: A vision evolves over time. If the people executing the strategy aren't involved from the get-go, delivery becomes nearly impossible.Diversity of Thought Wins: Corporate diversity initiatives are a good start, but the real prize is diversity of thought—creating a culture where constructive challenge and asking questions are actively encouraged by the C-Suite.AI Elevates the Entry-Level: Automating the "grunt work" doesn't destroy entry-level roles; it actually gives junior talent the opportunity to take on higher-value, diverse tasks much earlier in their careers.Send us Fan MailLinks & references: https://www.thecompanydoctor.com/Gary Gamp: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garygampGeorge Clode: https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgeclodeGary's new book, Career Catalyst - available online now: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Career-Catalyst-Secret-Skills-School-ebook/dp/B0DFYVG6XY/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

May 18, 202622 min

Fireside Chat: Confidence Trick - How to reclaim your value in an AI Obsessed market #107

Every time you open the news right now, another major company is announcing mass layoffs and blaming "AI." It’s easy for the workforce to feel completely paralyzed by the wave of automation. But is this just a handy excuse for CEOs to trim the fat, or is it a genuine technological revolution that we need to adapt to?In our very first (and very cozy) "Fireside Chat," Gary and George sit down to provide a roadmap through this murky, AI-obsessed terrain. Gary explains why companies need to shift their mindset from "Artificial" to "Assistive" Intelligence, and why keeping your team in the dark during times of change is the fastest way to lose your best people.For professionals feeling the pressure, this episode is the ultimate confidence booster. Learn how to adopt "Double Denim Confidence," approach your role as if you had £300,000 in the bank, and use periods of massive industry change to secure your next big promotion.Key takeaways from this episode:Assistive, not Artificial: Start looking at AI as a tool to make employees more efficient, not a tool to replace them. Focus on finding specific "use cases" that add actual business value.The £300k Confidence Trick: Desperation has a smell. Change your attitude and drop the fear by asking yourself: How would I behave at work today if I had £300,000 in the bank?Don't treat your team like they're stupid: If a company hides its AI or restructuring plans, employees will assume the worst and leave. Bring them on the journey with honest communication and a balanced scorecard.Pilot your own career: The most promotions happen during times of change. Don't be a passenger—put yourself forward, ask for the sticky projects, get inside the tent, and make yourself invaluable.Send us Fan MailLinks & references: https://www.thecompanydoctor.com/Gary Gamp: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garygampGeorge Clode: https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgeclodeGary's new book, Career Catalyst - available online now: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Career-Catalyst-Secret-Skills-School-ebook/dp/B0DFYVG6XY/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

May 5, 2026Episode 10617 min

Walk & Talk 8 : Luck isn’t random, its built: How to master the serendipity mindset #106

In this windy "Walk & Talk Episode" near London’s Guildhall, Gary and George dive into the science of serendipity. Inspired by the work of Dr. Christian Busch and his book Connect the Dots: The Art and Science of Creating Good Luck, Gary explains that the "lucky" breaks we see in business aren't just random coincidences—they are the result of a specific mindset and a series of "serendipity hooks."If networking is the how, serendipity is the why. This episode breaks down how to increase your "luck surface area" by being curious, breaking through the banality of small talk, and being brave enough to connect the dots between seemingly unrelated events. Whether you are a natural extrovert or a quiet introvert, you can influence your own luck by making small, 30-day habit shifts.Key takeaways from this episode:Influencing Your Luck: Luck is not magic; it’s a skill. You can train yourself to spot and create opportunities by being slightly braver and significantly more curious."Goals in Concrete, Paths in Sand": Have a long-term vision, but remain flexible enough to let the "meaningful coincidences" of life change your route.Kill the "What Do You Do?" Question: To maximize serendipity, replace standard small talk with better questions like, "What’s the most exciting thing you’re working on right now?"The 20% Rule: Just like Google, leaders should encourage "thinking time." Productivity isn't just about doing; it’s about having the space to let new ideas collide.Introverts can be "Lucky" too: You don't have to be the loudest person in the room. Serendipity can be triggered through non-verbal actions, like thoughtful LinkedIn posts or simply being present in the right "queues."Book Mentioned:Connect the Dots: The Art and Science of Creating Good Luck by Dr. Christian BuschSend us Fan MailLinks & references: https://www.thecompanydoctor.com/Gary Gamp: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garygampGeorge Clode: https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgeclodeGary's new book, Career Catalyst - available online now: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Career-Catalyst-Secret-Skills-School-ebook/dp/B0DFYVG6XY/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

April 14, 2026Episode 10516 min

Who Do You Think You Are? The truth about imposter syndrome #105

In this episode, Gary and George take a walk through the historic Bunhill Fields in London to discuss a topic that haunts everyone from entry-level graduates to C-suite executives: Imposter Syndrome. Ironically, the more successful you become, the more the "voice in your head" tends to whisper that you aren't worthy of the role you’ve earned.Gary breaks down the difference between healthy growth pains and debilitating fear. He argues that imposter syndrome isn't a disease—it’s often a sign that you actually care about your work and are pushing yourself out of your comfort zone. From the "Zulu Principle" of expertise to the practical power of a "Ta-da List," this episode provides the mental framework to help you stop sabotaging your own success.Key takeaways from this episode:The "Ta-da" List: Combat self-doubt by writing down your superpowers and past wins. When you see your track record on paper, you realize you aren't an imposter; you're an achiever.The Zulu Principle: To build authority, steep yourself in your topic. Read the books, listen to the podcasts, and gather the experience until you become the de facto expert in the room.Be a "Critical Friend": We often say things to ourselves that we would never say to a friend. Learn to catch your negative self-talk and treat yourself with the same honesty and kindness you’d give a peer.Signs of the Syndrome: Managers should look out for "inactivity" (freezing) or uncharacteristic "irritability" in team members—both are major red flags that someone is struggling with self-doubt.Send us Fan MailLinks & references: https://www.thecompanydoctor.com/Gary Gamp: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garygampGeorge Clode: https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgeclodeGary's new book, Career Catalyst - available online now: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Career-Catalyst-Secret-Skills-School-ebook/dp/B0DFYVG6XY/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

March 17, 2026Episode 10420 min

The Career Ladder Is Broken - And Companies Are Paying The Price #104

The entry-level job market is vanishing. With UK tech graduate roles plummeting and AI adoption sweeping across global enterprises, companies are increasingly demanding prior experience for jobs that used to be strictly for beginners. But by cutting off the bottom rung of the ladder to save a quick buck, businesses are severely risking their future pipeline of talent, loyalty, and innovation.In this "lazy" Walk & Talk, Gary and George unpack the perfect storm of economic pressures, post-pandemic hangovers, and AI adoption that is completely reshaping the workforce. Gary explains why the corporate structure has shifted from a healthy pyramid to a top-heavy diamond, and why missing out on the fresh, unbaggaged perspectives of 21-year-olds is a dangerous long-term strategy.Plus, Gary shares vital advice for current students navigating this harsh landscape to stand out from the crowd, and introduces his upcoming Career Ready Academy initiative designed to bridge the gap.Key takeaways from this episode:The Diamond Structure: Understand why companies are getting top-heavy and how failing to "feed the bottom" will destroy your growth runway within the next three years.AI as a Power-Up, not a Replacement: If you replace all human activity with AI, your customers will eventually replace you with AI. Use adaptable young minds to champion your AI efficiencies instead.Mix it up: You don't have to choose between exclusively seniors or juniors. Give fresh talent a chance and intentionally blend experience with new energy.For the Graduates: To stand out in a shrinking job pool, you have to build your own experience. Start volunteering, networking, and shadowing in your second year of university.Send us Fan MailLinks & references: https://www.thecompanydoctor.com/Gary Gamp: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garygampGeorge Clode: https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgeclodeGary's new book, Career Catalyst - available online now: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Career-Catalyst-Secret-Skills-School-ebook/dp/B0DFYVG6XY/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

March 3, 2026Episode 10332 min

Coaching without Credentials: how to build authority without a certificate #103

Whether we like it or not, the barrier to entry in coaching is non-existent. There is no universal license and no mandatory degree. But if qualifications aren't the thing that makes a leader a credible coach, what is?In this episode, Gary and George break down how to turn experience into authority using a simple 3-step framework: Connect, Challenge, and Commit.Gary shares why most managers fail at coaching (hint: they skip the connection phase), the crucial difference between coaching and mentoring, and the specific "Clarity, Challenge, and Ownership" questions you need to ask to turn an underperformer into an asset.Key takeaways from this episode:The 3 C’s Framework: Connect (build trust), Challenge (ask the hard questions), and Commit (drive action).Is the chicken cooked?: You cannot challenge someone until you have earned the right to do so through connection. If you serve it raw, they will reject it.Coaching vs. Mentoring: A mentor puts experience in (role modeling); a coach pulls answers out (questioning). Know which one your team member needs.The "Side-by-Side" Secret: Difficult conversations are often easier when you aren't face-to-face. Get out of the office, go for a walk, or sit in a car to lower psychological defenses.Send us Fan MailLinks & references: https://www.thecompanydoctor.com/Gary Gamp: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garygampGeorge Clode: https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgeclodeGary's new book, Career Catalyst - available online now: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Career-Catalyst-Secret-Skills-School-ebook/dp/B0DFYVG6XY/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

February 17, 2026Episode 10229 min

2026 is won in Q1 #102

We are coming to you LIVE from the Bike Shed in London's Shoreditch! In this special panel episode, Gary and George are joined by a live audience and four industry heavyweights to tackle the post-Christmas "sludge." We’ve all been there: the year technically starts in January, but the real momentum doesn't kick in until February.How do you accelerate out of the blocks? We discuss the critical difference between strategy and execution, how to mobilize a team before they’ve even left for the holidays, and what to do if your Q1 performance hits the rocks.Featuring an expert panel:Mark Pestridge (EVP & GM, Telehouse Europe)Fiona Richards (Group COO, Aphelia Group)Rich Best (Fractional CRO, & Founder, RW Best Co)Neil Anderson (CEO, Smart Tasking)Key takeaways from this episode:Q1 actually starts in Q4: The most successful leaders set the strategy and communication before the Christmas break, not after.Swerve perfection: Pace beats perfection—don't let the need for consensus slow down decision-making in the critical early months.Don't over-engineer: When asking what not to do, the resounding answer is to avoid over-complicating processes. Keep it simple.The "George Grill": Our panelists face tough questions on keeping the lights on whilst innovating, handling regulatory pressure, and the emergency levers to pull when revenue lags.Send us Fan MailLinks & references: https://www.thecompanydoctor.com/Gary Gamp: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garygampGeorge Clode: https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgeclodeGary's new book, Career Catalyst - available online now: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Career-Catalyst-Secret-Skills-School-ebook/dp/B0DFYVG6XY/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

January 27, 2026Episode 10120 min

Walk & Talk 7: Escape the Tower - what to do if you're feeling trapped in your career #101

Do you feel like a prisoner in your own job? The door might not actually be locked…Many of us feel imprisoned in our roles, held captive by the "golden handcuffs" of a salary, fear of the unknown, or simply apathy—but are the doors actually locked, or is it all in your mind?Feeling stuck doesn't always mean you have to quit; sometimes you just need to renovate the cell you are in.This week’s ‘Walk & Talk’ podcast episode comes to you from the Tower of London, a historic symbol of imprisonment, to discuss how to break the chains of your career and find your freedom.Key takeaways from this episode:Identify the chains: Understand if you are stuck due to genuine constraints or "invisible" fears like looking bad or losing status.Renovate your cell: You don’t always have to quit to be free; job crafting and internal networking can reshape your current role into something you love.The Pilot Analogy: While hybrid work is great, being invisible can stall your career—if you want to fly the plane, you need to be in the cockpit.It’s never too late: From Ray Kroc to Nokia, history is full of late bloomers and massive pivots. Your timeline is in your hands.Send us Fan MailLinks & references: https://www.thecompanydoctor.com/Gary Gamp: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garygampGeorge Clode: https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgeclodeGary's new book, Career Catalyst - available online now: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Career-Catalyst-Secret-Skills-School-ebook/dp/B0DFYVG6XY/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

September 30, 2025Episode 10035 min

Demystifying Money & Finance with ‘That Money Guy’: Gabriel Nussbaum #100

Financial freedom is simple - don’t let anyone tell you otherwise…Gabriel Nussbaum, better known as ‘That Money Guy’, is a money myth-busting master for the modern age, and he’s our VERY special guest on this 100th episode of The Company Doctor Podcast!Make your money go further, beat the system, and turn your investments into a lifestyle of freedom - join us on this week’s episode now!Key takeaways from this episode:Teach yourself something every monthYou’ll learn best with skin in the gameRip the band-aid off and look behind the scenes at your financesGabriel Nussbaum/That Money Guy: https://www.instagram.com/gabrielinussbaum/?hl=enhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/gabriel-nussbaum/?originalSubdomain=ukhttps://www.tiktok.com/@gabriel.nussbaum?lang=enSend us Fan MailLinks & references: https://www.thecompanydoctor.com/Gary Gamp: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garygampGeorge Clode: https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgeclodeGary's new book, Career Catalyst - available online now: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Career-Catalyst-Secret-Skills-School-ebook/dp/B0DFYVG6XY/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=

September 16, 2025Episode 9940 min

Being Ghosted? Here’s Why (and What to Do About It) #99

We’ve all been there: ghosted by a potential client and wondering what went wrong. But radio silence doesn’t have to be the end…Get to the bottom of WHY you’ve been ghosted, and Gary Gamp has the steps to turn it around - this week’s Company Doctor Podcast holds the keys to engineering momentum and landing the deal that currently looks impossible.Key takeaways from this episode:Diagnose before you chase: label the silenceEngineer momentum, don’t hope for itSafe, Simple, StatusSend us Fan MailLinks & references: https://www.thecompanydoctor.com/Gary Gamp: https://www.linkedin.com/in/garygampGeorge Clode: https://www.linkedin.com/in/georgeclodeGary's new book, Career Catalyst - available online now: https://www.amazon.co.uk/Career-Catalyst-Secret-Skills-School-ebook/dp/B0DFYVG6XY/ref=tmm_kin_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=&sr=