- 12
- Episodes
- 2025
- First episode
About Subject To Approval
Subject To Approval is your unfiltered look into the real-world messiness of modern business and agency life. Every episode dives straight into the chaos, challenges, and curveballs shaping the way we work today. Expect candid conversations, sharp insights, and a good dose of practical wisdom on what’s breaking and what’s actually working in the trenches of business. Whether you’re navigating growing pains, chasing innovation, or just trying to keep up with the madness, this podcast is here to help you make sense of it all. Because work is tough — but you don’t have to figure it out alone.
- Publisher
- Becca Maxwell - Artemis Consulting
- Category
- business
- Language
- en
- Explicit
- No
- First episode
- 9 Jun 2025
- Latest episode
- 22 Dec 2025
Latest episodes
12 episodes in the feed.
22 Dec 2025
Why Aren’t we Talking? The missed competitive advantage of human conversation
In this episode, Steve explores a deceptively simple question with far-reaching consequences. Why have we stopped talking to each other at work, and what is it costing us? At a time when we are more digitally connected than ever, many teams are avoiding live human conversation in favour of messages, emails and documents. What feels safer and more efficient on the surface is, in practice, slowing decisions, weakening relationships and eroding trust. Steve unpacks why this shift has happened, what it is doing to teams, leadership and creativity, and how organisations can begin to rebuild the habit of real conversation without forcing it or adding unnecessary friction. In this episode, we explore: Why messaging has quietly replaced conversation and why it feels safer, easier and more controlled How the move away from talking is slowing decisions, weakening relationships and increasing misunderstanding What gets lost when tone, presence and context disappear from everyday communication The impact this has on creativity, leadership and trust inside teams Simple, practical ways to rebuild the habit of real conversation without overcomplicating it Key takeaway The world may be messaging more, but it is thinking and feeling less. What looks like speed on the surface often creates friction underneath. Relearning how and when to talk restores clarity, trust, creativity and culture. In a workplace increasingly shaped by AI, automation and algorithms, being human and choosing real conversation may be one of the most powerful competitive advantages we have. If this episode resonated, do not just forward the link. Pick up the phone and talk to someone about it. Learn more about Artemis and how we support agency leaders at ArtemisAPAC.com (https://www.artemisapac.com) Reach out at hello@artemisapac.com (mailto:hello@artemisapac.com).
20 Dec 2025
The Power (and Necessity!) of Cultural Competence
In this episode, Steve takes us into one of the most overlooked commercial levers for agencies working across APAC: cultural competence. Not as a conversation about DE&I or values frameworks, but as a pragmatic, commercial muscle that directly impacts pitches, client relationships, campaign performance and bottom line outcomes. Steve shares a real story from a Southeast Asia boardroom where brilliant work missed the mark because the cultural operating system it was built on did not match the client’s. Not a quality issue. Not a capability issue. A cultural one. Culture, as he frames it, is an invisible operating system that shapes how people think, decide and behave. And the similarities at surface level (same phones, same coffee shops, same brands) often trick us into assuming a sameness that simply is not there under the surface. Together, we explore: why silence in Japan is not awkward why laughter at a mistake in Thailand is not mockery why yes can still mean no why colours, humour, pace, hierarchy and risk all land differently market to market and crucially, why this is not a nice to have. It is a performance requirement in APAC. Steve talks about: the commercial cost of cultural misreads why global campaigns collapse not on the strategy, but on the interpretation why curiosity is the starting point (not assumption) how to ask better, more open questions in global and hybrid teams why diversity is not the passport someone holds but the perspective they bring and reframes cultural competence as a skillset that can (and should) be trained, just like SEO or UX, so teams can make better decisions, give better feedback and build ideas that land. APAC is not just another region. APAC is a global growth engine. And cultural competence is commercially essential for the agencies working here. For coaching, workshops or a fresh perspective, reach out to us at hello@artemisapac.com Learn more about Artemis and how we support agency leaders at ArtemisAPAC.com (https://www.artemisapac.com)
29 Oct 2025
Moving from Team Talent to Team Leadership
In this episode of Subject to Approval, host Steven Mcginnes explores one of the biggest transitions many agency professionals face, the leap from being a talented individual contributor to becoming an effective team leader. It’s a shift that happens often, but rarely easily. As Steven explains, excelling at your craft doesn’t automatically prepare you for the realities of leadership. The skills, mindset and tools that make you a great designer, strategist or producer aren’t the same ones that make you a great leader. Drawing on his own experience and a few honest lessons learned the hard way, Steven unpacks why this transition can be so challenging and what agencies can do to support their rising stars before they’re thrown in the deep end. From mindset shifts to practical skills, he highlights the essentials every new leader needs: Moving from “I do great work” to “I enable great work.” Understanding the fundamentals of resource planning, budgeting and people management. Leading client conversations that go beyond presenting work to solving problems. Creating clarity, structure and support so the entire team can thrive. Steven also introduces Artemis’ one-day training course “From Talent to Team Leader” designed specifically for agency creatives and specialists stepping into leadership roles. The program focuses on building confidence, capability and the mindset needed to make this transition successfully. If you’ve got team members ready to take their next step, this episode will help you understand how to set them up for success, not just to step up, but to step forward with clarity and confidence. For coaching, workshops, or a smart second opinion, reach out at hello@artemisapac.com (mailto:hello@artemisapac.com) Learn more about Artemis and how we support agency leaders at ArtemisAPAC.com (https://www.artemisapac.com)
14 Oct 2025
The truth about what motivates your team (& it’s not money!)
In this episode of Subject to Approval, host Becca Maxwell explores one of the most common challenges agency leaders face: how do we motivate younger talent? The conversation takes a fresh look at motivation, moving away from the traditional “carrot and stick” approach and drawing on insights from Daniel H. Pink’s book Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us. Becca explains why money and perks alone rarely inspire lasting performance, and why focusing instead on Mastery, Autonomy and Purpose can fundamentally change how teams show up and engage with their work. Through real-world stories and practical examples, this episode explores: Why traditional reward systems often backfire in creative, cognitive-driven industries How agency leaders can build pathways for true mastery beyond tactical skill-building Why granting autonomy creates ownership, innovation and stronger client relationships How to uncover and articulate a sense of purpose that makes daily work meaningful Simple, actionable questions you can ask your team today to begin this shift Becca also shares how agencies that embrace this mindset see improved retention, stronger client results and a more energized culture. It’s not just theory. When people grow, contribute and connect to something bigger than themselves, they stop chasing the next small pay increase and start investing in the team they’re part of. If you’re ready to rethink motivation and build a more resilient, high-performing team, this episode will give you both the inspiration and the tools to get started. Resources & Links Book recommendation: Drive: The Surprising Truth About What Motivates Us by Daniel H. Pink Connect with Becca on LinkedIn (https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccarmaxwell/) Learn more about Artemis and how we support agency leaders at ArtemisAPAC.com (https://www.artemisapac.com) For coaching, workshops or a fresh perspective, reach out at hello@artemisapac.com
30 Sept 2025
Communication - If you can’t communicate, you can’t compete
In this episode, Steven McGinnes dives into one of the most overlooked yet decisive factors in professional and business success: Communication. From emails to presentations, meetings to public speaking, the ability to convey ideas clearly and confidently is often the difference between stalled growth and real progress. As Steven puts it—if you can’t communicate, you can’t compete. But if you can, the opportunities are limitless. What You’ll Learn in This Episode: Why communication is a career superpower – and what the research says about its impact on leadership, client relationships, and business growth. How to write emails that actually get read and acted on – with practical tips for clarity, brevity, and credibility. Presentations that land, not lull – the core structures and practices that separate forgettable decks from persuasive storytelling. Running meetings that matter – simple protocols to save time, build accountability, and position yourself as a leader who values others’ time. Public speaking as a career accelerator – how to prepare, engage, and leave an impact without the overwhelm. Mastering virtual presence – the essentials of showing up well on Zoom and hybrid calls in today’s world. Building confidence step by step – why nerves can be reframed as energy, and how confidence inspires teams and clients alike. Memorable Quote: “The most successful people I’ve worked with aren’t necessarily the smartest or the hardest working—they’re the ones who can effectively communicate, inspire, and engage.” – Steven McGinnis Takeaway: Communication isn’t just a soft skill—it’s a growth driver. By sharpening the way we write, present, and show up in conversations, we not only improve productivity but also strengthen credibility, trust, and influence. Let’s Talk: At Artemis, we’ve developed a one-day hands-on communication program that equips your teams with immediately usable skills. If you’d like to explore how we can help your team raise its communication game, reach out to us directly—email, message, or call. Contact us at: hello@ArtemisAPAC.com Explore our programmes at artemisapac.com (http://artemisapac.com)
17 Sept 2025
How to stay Focused on what Matters
In this solo episode of Subject to Approval, Rebecca Maxwell shares one of the most practical frameworks for agency leaders and teams navigating uncertain times — the Circle of Control and Circle of Concern. The reality is that our industry is changing. Budgets shift, stakeholders move on, AI reshapes how we work. It’s natural to feel stretched or unsettled. What matters is how we respond. This episode is about learning to redirect energy toward what truly makes a difference — and letting go of what we can’t change. Rebecca draws on real experiences from agencies across the region to show how focusing on what’s within our control doesn’t just steady us — it creates stronger teams, healthier client relationships, and cultures that thrive in the long run. Key Takeaways Separate concern from control: Recognise the difference between the issues that weigh on you and the choices you can directly influence. Focus creates resilience: By putting energy into actions you can take — from communication to capability-building — you stay calm and productive even in uncertainty. Influence grows from control: Consistently working on what’s in your hands naturally expands your influence and impact. Positivity is contagious: When teams focus on control, they create cultures that inspire confidence, build trust, and sustain growth. Practical application: Account leaders can focus on communication quality. Agency leaders can invest in their people and systems. Both are within reach, and both matter deeply. Memorable Quotes “The circle where you spend the most time grows — choose it with intention.” “Agencies that thrive are the ones that focus their energy where it matters most.” Contact Us At Artemis APAC, we partner with agencies to help teams refocus, build resilience, and unlock growth — always starting from what’s within their control. 📩 Connect with Rebecca directly at rebecca@artemisapac.com 🌐 Explore our programmes at artemisapac.com (http://artemisapac.com)
2 Sept 2025
The ONLY 5 ways to deliver revenue growth
In this solo episode of Subject to Approval, Steve takes the mic to tackle one of the biggest questions in business: how do you actually grow revenue? Instead of talking about abstract ideas like mindset or coaching, he cuts straight to the core and lays out the only five levers available to any business that wants to increase revenue. These aren’t gimmicks or trendy hacks—they’re timeless, functional approaches that apply whether you’re running a small agency or a multinational. Steve explains why so many organizations leave money on the table by working in silos, why the “hunting vs. farming” debate is misleading, and how simple shifts in pricing, scope management, and client engagement can unlock major opportunities. If you’ve ever felt stuck wondering how to scale without reinventing the wheel, this episode offers a clear, practical roadmap. What You’ll Learn in This Episode Raise your prices – why you might be undercharging (and how to benchmark fairly). Charge for everything – turning scope creep into a revenue driver. Sell more existing services to existing clients – uncovering hidden blockers that stop you from maximizing current relationships. Offer new services to existing clients – why it’s three times easier than winning brand-new customers. Deliver new services to new clients – the toughest, but also the biggest opportunity for growth. Key Takeaways Revenue growth isn’t about random tactics—it comes down to just five levers. Avoid silos: pricing, scope, and client relationships all interconnect. Growth isn’t just the “new business person’s” job—it’s everyone’s responsibility. Timing matters: Tuesday mornings and Thursday afternoons are the sweet spots for growth conversations. About Artemis Artemis provides practical, pragmatic, results-oriented training and coaching to help agencies build the skills, mindset, and capacity for significant growth. 👉 Want to step-change your business growth? 📧Contact us at: hello@ArtemisAPAC.com🌐Visit: ArtemisAPAC.com (http://artemisapac.com/)
26 Aug 2025
Profits biggest killer - Scope creep
In this solo episode, Steve shines a light on scope creep—the silent killer of profitability in agencies. Too many teams unknowingly give away time, ideas, and resources, only to see margins vanish. But scope creep isn’t inevitable—if you understand where it comes from and how to stop it. Drawing on his experience turning a million-dollar loss into a million-dollar profit (without cutting staff or raising prices), Steve unpacks the issue through the lens of the 3 P’s: Pareto’s 80/20 rule, Parkinson’s Law, and the Peter Principle. Together, we explore: Why scope creep is the #1 threat to agency profitability The hidden dangers of “just one more change” and offhand client requests How 80% of problems often come from 20% of clients Why work always expands to fill the time available How lack of training and mentoring fuels project overruns Practical ways to reset boundaries, reclaim value, and protect your margins Key Takeaways Scope creep isn’t a client problem—it’s an agency problem. 80% of scope issues come from 20% of clients. Offhand client comments don’t equal deliverables. Shorter deadlines often lead to better results. Training and mentoring—not luck—create teams that can prevent scope creep. Memorable Quotes “It ain’t what you make, it’s what you keep that matters.” — Steve McGinnis “Scope creep is the single biggest negative impact on profitability and margin.” — Steve McGinnis Who Should Listen Agency leaders and founders Project managers and client service teams Creatives who want to protect their time and value Anyone responsible for agency profitability Want Support? If scope creep is eating away at your margins, we’d love to help. Artemis offers tailored programs on growth, talent transformation, and ongoing learning—so your teams can stay profitable without burning out. 📧Contact us at: hello@ArtemisAPAC.com 🌐Visit: ArtemisAPAC.com (http://artemisapac.com/)
22 Jul 2025
Strategists
Welcome to our podcast Subject to Approval, where we cut through the noise and explore the realities of today’s agency and business world. No fluff, no jargon—just fearless conversations. In this insightful episode, Rebecca and Steve tackle a critical issue in the agency landscape: the vanishing act of strategists from agency networks—and the consequences of their absence. As quality declines and client dissatisfaction rises, the industry is realizing what it lost. But is simply bringing strategists back the answer? Together, they explore: The reasons strategy roles were removed in the first place The ripple effects on creative quality, client relationships, and project thinking Why “strategy” has become a misunderstood, sometimes feared term The difference between having a strategist and fostering a strategic culture Practical ways agencies can embed strategic thinking without a full strategy department How to empower client services, creatives, and leadership teams to think more strategically Whether you're a network agency leader, an indie founder, or a strategist yourself, this episode offers clarity, direction, and real-world solutions to a challenge facing many teams today. Key Takeaways: Strategy isn't a role—it’s a way of working. Agencies downsized strategy, then scrambled to re-hire it when quality slipped. Strategic thinking doesn’t belong to one person—it's a shared mindset. Giving teams permission, confidence, and process is key to embedding strategy. A well-executed strategy doesn't need mystique—just clarity and alignment. Memorable Quotes: “Telling people to ‘be more strategic’ isn’t helpful—it’s like telling a cycling team to just pedal faster.” — Steven McGinnes “Strategy disappeared because it was seen as a luxury. But thinking is not a luxury.” — Steven McGinnes “You don’t replace a CSO—you empower them with a cast of thousands.” — Steven McGinnes Who Should Listen: Agency leaders and founders Strategy directors and CSOs Client service and account teams Creatives who want to think more commercially Anyone tasked with driving better thinking in their teams Want Support? If you're struggling to embed strategic culture in your agency—or just want a smart second opinion—reach out. Coaching, workshops, or tailored tools, we’re here to help. 📧Contact us at: hello@ArtemisAPAC.com (hello@ArtemisAPAC.com) 🌐Visit: ArtemisAPAC.com (http://artemisapac.com/)
8 Jul 2025
Proactivity & Value Add
In this podcast episode of Subject to Approval, we dive into a common and frustrating refrain heard across agencies: "You used to give us extra stuff. Now you just give us what we ask for." We unpack what clients really mean when they say agencies aren’t being “proactive” anymore—and why this perception exists even when teams are going above and beyond. The episode tackles emotional reactivity, invisible value, and the misunderstood relationship between “more” and “better.” Key Topics Covered Proactivity vs. Reactivity: How emotions, mindset, and business behaviors play into how value is perceived and delivered. Debunking the Myth of 'More is Better': Extra work ≠ extra value. Learn why delivering six creative routes instead of four might mean nothing if the extras don’t resonate strategically. Scope Creep vs. Value Add: A practical breakdown of how to tell if you're adding real value or just burning hours without impact. Client Communication as Proactivity: Sometimes the most valuable thing you can do is send a thoughtful check-in. It builds trust without additional resources. Creating Space for Strategic Input: Why pushing back on unrealistic deadlines can lead to better work—and happier clients. Understanding Client Needs vs. Client Asks: Tips for uncovering the real motivations behind briefs, and how to proactively surface the deeper opportunities they might not even see themselves. Cultural Dynamics in Agency-Client Relationships: Exploring how market maturity, hierarchy, and client expectations shape the potential for value-added work. Practical Takeaways Value add doesn't always mean more deliverables—sometimes it's about better insight, better timing, or clearer communication. Always ask: What does my client actually value? Make the invisible visible: frame your extras clearly and show your strategic thinking. Don't be apologetic about your time or your work. Show confidence in your expertise. Look beyond the brief: understand the business context, the market, and your client’s personal drivers. Notable Quotes “We give them extra stuff all the time… to the point where we’ve got no margin left… How could they possibly say we’re not being proactive?” — Steven McGinnes “Proactivity doesn’t have to mean ‘more’. Value add can mean different—not just getting more stuff done.” — Rebecca Maxwell Where to Dig Deeper Ask clients directly what they value and need (even if it feels awkward). Track broader business trends: annual reports, press releases, exec posts on LinkedIn. Consider your client’s personal KPIs—is it really about the brand, or is it about making their boss happy? Want to Go Deeper? Have questions or want tailored coaching on account leadership, value communication, or client partnerships? 📩 Reach out: hello@artemisapac.com (hello@artemisapac.com) 🌐 Website: ArtemisAPAC.com (https://www.artemisapac.com)
24 Jun 2025
Growth
In this episode, we dive headfirst into one of the hottest (and most misunderstood) topics in today’s agency world: Growth. It’s the pressure point many leaders are wrestling with, but the conversation around it is often outdated, oversimplified, or just plain wrong. Together, we unpack: Why growth can’t sit in a silo anymore The old “hunter vs. gardener” mindset (and why it’s time to evolve) How KPIs are creeping into roles not traditionally tied to sales Why “sales” still feels icky—and how to reframe it How culture, mindset, and proper training are the real game changers With stories from the trenches, examples from real agencies, and a healthy dose of humor, this episode tackles how to shift your team from passive delivery mode to proactive opportunity hunters—without turning them into someone they’re not. Key Takeaways: Everyone's job now includes growth. Gone are the days when the new biz team did all the heavy lifting. Creatives, strategists, and client leads are now being handed KPIs tied to growth—and often without support or training. Reframing is everything. People shy away from “sales,” but are open to “solving problems” and “adding value.” It's not about pushing product; it's about being helpful and proactive. Culture eats fear for breakfast. Fear-based leadership won’t drive growth—it’ll drive people away. Leaders must cultivate environments where curiosity, experimentation, and connection are encouraged. Training isn’t optional. Expecting people to naturally “just know” how to grow business is unrealistic. Investing in upskilling isn’t a cost—it’s a growth strategy.The stick doesn’t work anymore. Bonuses and targets won’t inspire a team like purpose and autonomy will. People want to know they matter, not just their numbers. Listener Challenge: Ask yourself: Are your people clear, confident, and capable of spotting and seizing opportunities for growth? If the answer is “not yet,” then it’s time to get curious—not critical. Need support? We work with agencies across the region to build confidence, capability, and real results when it comes to growth. Whether it’s coaching, workshops, or just a sounding board, we’d love to help. 📩 Contact us at: Hello@ArtemisAPAC.com 🌐 Website: https://artemisapac.com (https://artemisapac.com)
9 Jun 2025
Juniorisation
Welcome to Subject to Approval, the podcast where we dive into the chaos, challenges, and curveballs of today’s business and agency world — straight-talking conversations about what’s breaking and what’s working right now. In this episode, your hosts Becca and Steve unpack one of the most pressing topics affecting agencies across the globe: the juniorisation of talent. What does it mean when more junior people are stepping into roles that used to require 10+ years of experience? And more importantly — what does it cost your business when that experience isn’t in the room? We discuss: What juniorisation really looks like in agencies today The good, the bad, and the missing middle: how new energy collides with missing expertise Why this shift is happening (hint: it’s not just about budgets) The invisible gap in skills — and why it’s nobody’s fault Why relying on tools and templates isn’t enough How to spot (and fix) gaps in both hard and soft skills The case for serious investment in talent development What smart agencies are doing to turn this challenge into a competitive edge Whether you’re an agency founder, team lead, or someone stepping into a bigger role faster than expected — this episode is for you. Key takeaway: If you want your people to grow, perform, and stay, you have to invest in both hard and soft skill development — and make that investment real, not symbolic. If you're wrestling with this challenge in your own agency, we’re here to help. Coaching, workshops, or just a smart second opinion — get in touch. 📩 Email us: hello@artemisapac.com 🌐 Learn more at (https://artemisapac.com)artemisapac.com (http://artemisapac.com)
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