Lead with Curiosity

About Lead with Curiosity

If you are a business owner, people leader or aspiring people leader, this podcast is for you. My guests will be sharing tips and their lived experience about starting their businesses, scaling up teams, using AI impactfully and managing their finances. This is a warts and all podcast with no fluff, just practical advice and some great stories.

Publisher

Anthony Donovan

Category

business

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

1 Apr 2026

Latest episode

8 Oct 2026

Latest episodes

15 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   8 Oct 2026

   Know your numbers, grow your business

   In this episode of Lead with Curiosity, I’m joined by Phil Walker, Co-Founder and Fractional CFO from Mettryx to explore how business finance can feel a little less intimidating, and considerably more useful. We explore the financial blind spots that can hold otherwise successful businesses back, why so many owners avoid engaging with their numbers, and whether the old saying “turnover is vanity, profit is sanity” actually tells us enough. Phil shares the financial measures every business owner should understand, the early warning signs of cash flow problems, and the habits that can increase the value of a business long before anyone starts thinking about investment or exit. We also explore the theme of confidence. As the decisions get bigger, how can better financial information help leaders move beyond gut instinct and make bold decisions with greater confidence? And, inevitably, we talk about AI, where it can improve financial decision making, and where human judgement still matters. If you would like to learn more about Mettryx, you can find their website here https://mettryx.com/ You can contact Phil directly via his LinkedIn profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/philwalkermettryx/ And if you would like to learn more about Phil's wine making venture, you can learn more here https://vyndene.com/ To find out more about Donovan Training Associates, please visit https://www.donovantrainingassociates.co.uk/ We'd love to know what you think of the episode and if you have any questions for Phil or I, please get in touch in the comments section. Thank you for watching or listening and enjoy the episode.

2. 

   1 Oct 2026

   Beyond the business card - networking done differently

   What if the best networking had very little to do with selling? In the first episdoe of the new series of Lead with Curiosity, I had the pleasure of being joined by Cathy Dunbabin, founder of Opendoorz, to explore what more than 25 years of building professional relationships has taught her about networking, trust and genuine human connection. We discussed why collecting contacts isn’t the same as building a network, why walking into a room looking for someone to sell to is often the wrong place to start, and what happens when you create a culture where people genuinely want to help one another succeed. Cathy also shares lots of practical advice for anyone who finds networking uncomfortable, including how to build confidence when walking into a room full of strangers. Finally, we looked ahead. As AI and technology increasingly influence how we find, meet and communicate with people, what happens to the human relationships behind great businesses? If you would like to learn more about Opendoorz and whether this might be the right networking fit for you, you can find their website here https://opendoorz.biz/ You can contact Cathy directly via her LinkedIn profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/cathydunbabin-networkingexpert/ To find out more about Donovan Training Associates, please visit https://www.donovantrainingassociates.co.uk/ We'd love to know what you think of the episode and if you have any questions for Cathy or I, please get in touch in the comments section. Thank you for watching or listening and enjoy the episode.

3. 

   16 Jul 2026

   The new face of apprenticeships

   For many Organisations, the biggest challenge with AI is not the technology, it is having people with the skills and confidence to use it effectively. In this episode of Lead with Curiosity, I had the pleasure of speaking with Richard Lambden, Director of Business Development at Cambridge Spark about how Data and AI apprenticeships are transforming the way Organisations develop talent. We discussed how and why apprenticeships have evolved far beyond traditional trades, the misconceptions many employers still hold, and how businesses of every size can benefit from investing in digital capability. Richard also shares some insights on what great employers do to help apprentices thrive, how blended learning creates lasting workplace performance and the measurable business outcomes that come from developing Data and AI skills from within. Whether you are considering apprenticeships for the first time or looking to build an AI ready workforce, this episode offers practical insights into preparing your Organisation for the future. If you would like to learn more about Cambridge Spark and how they can support you with apprenticeships, you can find their website here https://www.cambridgespark.com/ You can contact Richard directly via his LinkedIn profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/richardlambden/ To find out more about Donovan Training Associates, please visit https://www.donovantrainingassociates.co.uk/ We'd love to know what you think of the episode and if you have any questions for Richard or I, please get in touch in the comments section. Thank you for listening and enjoy the episode.

4. 

   9 Jul 2026

   Your financial future

   In this episode of Lead with Curiosity, I sat down with Daniel Barnes, Chartered Financial Planner and a Director at Barnes Wealth Management, to explore why financial planning is about far more than building wealth. From debunking common myths about who financial advice is really for, to discussing retirement, inheritance, and protecting your future, our conversation offers practical guidance for professionals, business owners, and families alike. We also reflect on the experience of taking over a family business, the leadership lessons passed from one generation to the next, and the small financial habits that can make a lasting difference. Whether you're just starting your career or planning for the future, this episode will leave you with practical insights and plenty to think about. If you would like to learn more about Daniel and how his team at Barnes Wealth Management can support you with your financial planning, you can visit their website here https://www.barneswealthmanagement.co.uk/ You can also contact Daniel via his LinkedIn profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniel-barneswealth/ To find out more about Donovan Training Associates, please visit https://www.donovantrainingassociates.co.uk/ We'd love to know what you think of the episode and if you have any questions for Daniel or I, please get in touch in the comments section. Thank you for listening and enjoy the episode.

5. 

   2 Jul 2026

   Raise the standard

   What separates good teams from truly exceptional ones? In this episode, I sat down with Lisa-Marie Mallier to explore what it really takes to build high performing teams, where people feel empowered, accountable, and motivated to succeed. From creating a culture of trust and high standards, to balancing support with accountability, Lisa shares some practical leadership insights and lived experience that will help people, teams, and Organisations perform at their very best. If you would like to learn more about Lisa and how she can support your business, you can contact her via her LinkedIn profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisamariemallier/. Alternatively you can email Lisa at lisa@nofluffcomms.co.ukTo find out more about Donovan Training Associates, please visit https://www.donovantrainingassociates.co.uk/ We'd love to know what you think of the episode and if you have any questions for Lisa or I, please get in touch in the comments section. Thank you for listening and enjoy the episode.

6. 

   25 Jun 2026

   Unlocking More from AI

   Building on the foundations from episode one, I sat down with Marnie Wills, an AI strategist and trainer to explore how business owners can move beyond basic AI use and unlock greater value. From better prompting and practical workflows to creativity and the future of work, this episode focuses on turning AI from a useful tool into a strategic advantage. If you would like to learn more about Marnie and how she can support you with your AI requirements, you can find her here https://brand.contact/marnie-wills or you can contact Marnie via her LinkedIn profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/marnie-wills-ai-activist/ To find out more about Donovan Training Associates, please visit https://www.donovantrainingassociates.co.uk/ We'd love to know what you think of the episode and if you have any questions for Marnie and I, please get in touch in the comments section. Thank you for listening and enjoy the episode.

7. 

   18 Jun 2026

   Making AI Practical

   The debate around AI in the workplace centres on balancing opportunity with responsibility. Supporters argue that AI can boost productivity, reduce repetitive tasks, enhance decision making, and free people to focus on more creative and strategic work. Critics, however, raise concerns about job displacement, over reliance on technology, data privacy, and the potential loss of human judgement and connection. Wherever you sit on this debate, we can probably all agree that AI is a a major talking point and embracing it is a non negotiable for businesses that want to continue to thrive. In the first of two episodes, I sat down with Marnie Wills, an AI strategist and trainer to ask her thoughts on how we can use AI ethically alongside human expertise. We explore where to begin and how to start embracing AI. If you would like to learn more about Marnie and how she can support you with your AI requirements, you can find her here https://brand.contact/marnie-wills or you can contact Marnie via her LinkedIn profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/marnie-wills-ai-activist/ To find out more about Donovan Training Associates, please visit https://www.donovantrainingassociates.co.uk/ We'd love to know what you think of the episode and if you have any questions for Marnie and I, please get in touch in the comments section. Thank you for listening and enjoy the episode.

8. 

   11 Jun 2026

   Building business through community

   In this episode, I sat down with Michael McCalmont, Founder and Chairman of Bloxham Mill. Full confession, I have been a client at Bloxham Mill for many years and have seen first hand how it has evolved from a functional and practical workplace to a community where business thrives and it has become a genuine pleasure to walk through the door every morning. Much of this change occured during the pandemic when many businesses were understanably putting the shutters up and trying to salvage cash flow. I wanted to explore what happens when curiosity, calculated risk, and people-first leadership come together to build something that lasts. I was also keen to learn more about the perception of 'serviced offices', a phrase that Michael dislikes by the way, and why this is so often mixed. If you would like to learn more about Bloxham Mill, you can visit their website https://bloxhammill.com/ To find out more about Donovan Training Associates, please visit https://www.donovantrainingassociates.co.uk/ We'd love to know what you think of the episode and if you have any questions for Michael or I, please get in touch in the comments section. Thank you for listening and enjoy the episode.

9. 

   4 Jun 2026

   Stand out, hire better

   Finding the right candidate to fit your business and represent your brand can be stressful, time consuming and expensive. In this episode, I sat down with Dave Lewis, the founder of The Recademy, a business that specialises in working with recruiters to help them deliver a professional service with confidence and credibility. Dave has a vast amount of recruitment experience, and shares some practical tips on how you can work proactively with internal or external recruitment professionals to help both you and them reach the right outcome. If you would like to learn more about The Recademy, you can visit their website https://www.therecademy.com/ or you can contact Dave via his LinkedIn profile https://www.linkedin.com/in/therecruitmenttrainer/ To find out more about Donovan Training Associates, please visit https://www.donovantrainingassociates.co.uk/ We'd love to know what you think of the episode and if you have any questions for Dave and I, please get in touch in the comments section. Thank you for listening and enjoy the episode.

10. 

    28 May 2026

    From supplier to trusted partner

    In this episode of Lead with Curiosity, I was joined from Chicago by Aaron Schavey, a key account manager from Servomex. I was keen to explore Aaron's thoughts on what really builds trust in business relationships. We discussed the difference between selling a product or solution and becoming a genuine partner, why value always outlasts price, and how curiosity, empathy, and listening shape long term success. If you’ve ever wondered how great relationships are built, maintained, and strengthened through trust rather than transactions, this conversation will leave you thinking differently about leadership, sales, and human connection. If you would like to learn more about Servomex, you can visit their website https://www.servomex.com/ To find out more about Donovan Training Associates, please visit https://www.donovantrainingassociates.co.uk/ We'd love to know what you think of the episode and if you have any questions for Aaron and I, please get in touch in the comments section. Thank you for listening and enjoy the episode.

11. 

    21 May 2026

    From idea to momentum: Building a podcast business

    In this episode, I sat down with Hugo Austin, one of the founders of The Pod Collective to explore what really happens behind the scenes when an idea turns into a growing business. It was an opportunity to turn the tables and learn more about what goes into creating a podcast business in a fast growing and ever competitive market. From the uncertainty of starting out, to scaling quickly without losing quality, this conversation unpacks the practical realities of entrepreneurship, leadership, and building something sustainable. Hugo shares a fascinating insight into the mindset shifts that he belives stops people taking action, the mistakes that taught him and his business partner Jack Hales, the biggest lessons, and why growth only works when the foundations are strong enough to support it. The conversation also explores franchising, how partnerships work and the importance of staying curious while building a business in real time. Whether you’re sitting on an idea or leading a growing team, this episode offers honest practical thinking and reassurance that no business journey is ever as polished as it looks from the outside. If you would like to learn more about The Pod Collective, you can visit their website https://www.thepodcollective.co.uk/ To find out more about Donovan Training Associates, please visit https://www.donovantrainingassociates.co.uk/ We'd love to know what you think of the episode and if you have any questions for Hugo and I, please get in touch in the comments section. Thank you for listening and enjoy the episode.

12. 

    14 May 2026

    Building a culture that actually works

    Stepping into leadership rarely feels like a clean promotion. It can feel uncertain, uncomfortable, and at times, undeserved. In this episode of Lead with Curiosity, I sat down with Louise Wane, Managing Director of Rainbow Dust, to explore the real journey behind moving from doing the work to leading others. From early careers in sales and marketing to stepping into the role of Managing Director, this conversation brings an honest look at imposter syndrome, shifting identity, and the moments that quietly shape leadership. We move beyond theory and into lived experience. What changes when you are no longer responsible for results alone, but for people, culture, and direction? What behaviours actually build trust in a team, especially during periods of growth and uncertainty, such as acquisitions? You will hear practical reflections on building culture, leading creative and commercially driven teams, and developing the habits that help new managers grow into confident leaders. This is not about having all the answers. It is about learning to ask better questions, noticing what matters, and leading with intention when it matters most. If you would like to learn more about Rainbow Dust, you can visit their website https://www.rainbowdust.co.uk/ To find out more about Donovan Training Associates, please visit https://www.donovantrainingassociates.co.uk/ We'd love to know what you think of the episode and if you have any questions for Louise and I, please get in touch in the comments section. Thank you for listening and enjoy the episode.

13. 

    30 Apr 2026

    The shift from doing to leading

    In this episode, I sat down with Colin Butcher, Creative Partnerships Director at n-fuze. We explored the transition from being a creative expert to becoming a confident leader through the lived experience of someone who has grown within one Organisation. It is a conversation about identity as much as it is about skill, about what changes when success is no longer defined by what you produce, but by what others achieve around you. You will hear honest reflections on the challenge of letting go of the work you love, the discomfort of stepping into conversations that feel outside your expertise, and the subtle shift from focusing on output to building trust, relationships, and influence. For new and experienced managers alike, this episode offers practical habits, grounded insights, and a reminder that the hardest promotion is not technical, it is personal, the move from doing the work to enabling others to do it well. If you would like to learn more about n-fuze, you can visit their website https://n-fuze.com/ To find out more about Donovan Training Associates, please visit https://www.donovantrainingassociates.co.uk/ We'd love to know what you think of the episode and if you have any questions for Colin and I, please get in touch in the comments section. Thank you for listening and enjoy the episode.

14. 

    15 Apr 2026

    Late payers, early warnings

    Most businesses do not struggle with debt because they lack systems, they struggle because they avoid conversations. In this episode, we explore the human side of getting paid, the decisions, habits, and moments that quietly shape whether work turns into cash or into stress. Through a practical and honest conversation with Zakia Khalid, a specialist in debt recovery, you will hear what really sits behind late payments, why so many businesses hesitate to act, and how that hesitation compounds over time. You will learn how to spot early warning signs before a client becomes a problem, how to set expectations that protect both the relationship and the outcome, and how to approach payment conversations with clarity rather than discomfort. The episode also unpacks the most common mistakes businesses make when managing debt internally, offering simple, practical shifts that can be applied immediately.

15. 

    1 Apr 2026

    From scratch to studio

    Thank you for joining us today. My name is Anthony, founder of Donovan Training Associates. I help individual contributors transition into people leadership roles, and I support business owners to start and build their businesses. In this episode I had the pleasure of sitting down with Matt Brown, Founder and CEO of n-fuze. Based in Kent, UK, Matt started n-fuze from his parent's kitchen and has built the business into a highly successful agency that thinks big and creates bigger. They have just celebrated their twentieth birthday and have exciting plans for the future. Matt candidly talks us through his leadership journey, the challenge of letting go and trusting in others. He also shares a fascinating insight into how he has incorporated AI in the most human of ways. If you would like to learn more about n-fuze, you can visit their website https://n-fuze.com/ where we highly recommend the virtual tour of the Oasts. If you haven't heard what an Oast house is, it's another reason to listen and find out more. To find out more about Donovan Training Associates, please visit https://www.donovantrainingassociates.co.uk/ We'd love to know what you think of the episode and if you have any questions for Matt or I, please leave them in the comments section. Thank you for listening and enjoy the episode.

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