In this episode, we sit down with Naoum Barakat, a transformative leader in HR strategy and talent development across the UAE and beyond. With decades of experience shaping people and culture in some of the region’s most influential organisations, Naoum brings deep insight into what truly makes a great leader.

From the boardroom to the locker room, we unpack leadership through surprising lenses whether it’s Roy Keane’s intensity, Steve Jobs’ paradox of honesty and empathy, or the misunderstood difference between coaching and mentoring. Naoum doesn’t shy away from hard truths: he challenges outdated promotion tactics, questions the rise of “wellbeing theatre,” and reminds us all that you own your growth, not your boss, not your company.

If you're leading a team, building a culture, or navigating your own development journey, this conversation will reshape how you think about leadership, empathy and performance in today’s workplace.

3:08 – Why do companies want to promote but not train?

5:00 – What some companies miss out on when promoting Leaders

9:15 – What Questions should you be asking to ensure your promotion is set up for success

11:39 – Leadership is NOT a one size fits all

15:16 – Empathy without honesty is just sugar-coating

20:50 – How do we teach desire as leaders

24:50 – What is the difference between mentoring and coaching

33:18 – How can you bond and lead teams from different cultures

38:00 – Where does health and wellness fit into a business

44:44 – What you can do to have a company thriving culture and workplace wellbeing

53:40 – What impact does a pay rise have on increasing performance

1:04:30 – Project Naoum was most proud of with Mars

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