In this episode, Julian sits down with Professor Antonina Pereira, Executive Dean of the Faculty of Science, Social Sciences and Humanities at the University of Chichester, to explore the evolving landscape of leadership in higher education. Antonina shares her powerful "constant gardener" metaphor for leadership—the daily work of pruning, planting, and tending that never stops. She discusses the mounting complexities facing universities today, from frozen tuition fees that haven't kept pace with costs to the shift in student expectations since fees were introduced in 2012. Despite financial pressures that have seen fees remain largely static while operational costs have soared, Antonina emphasises that her non-negotiable remains putting people at the center of every decision, whether that's supporting staff development or ensuring students receive a transformative education rather than simply a transactional degree.

Throughout the conversation, Antonina reveals what makes the University of Chichester special—its unapologetically small size that allows leaders to know students by name at graduation, and its commitment to helping every student thrive regardless of their entry grades. She discusses the importance of developing leadership capabilities in higher education, as many academics step into management roles without formal training. Looking ahead with hope despite sector challenges, Antonina shares her vision for 2027 and beyond, grounded in understanding what makes Chichester unique: a cathedral group university that develops programmes in collaboration with industry, provides exceptional levels of support, and ensures students exit with far more than a degree—they leave with a well-rounded education prepared for the challenges of the world. Her passion for enabling people to achieve their goals, whether students or staff, shines through as the driving force behind her leadership approach.

If you are looking for a Blueprint to help you and your business manage uncertainty, deal with failure and navigate change then reach out to Julian at: julian@julianrobertsconsulting.com

You can buy my book "Weathering the Storm: A Guide to Building Resilient Teams" on Amazon: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0DFTYN2Y2

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In this engaging conversation, global PR expert and executive coach Marjie Hadad reveals why every leader needs to adopt a "PR mindset" – and it's not what you think. Moving beyond the stereotypes of spin and press releases, Marjie reframes PR as strategic communication that helps us achieve our goals and solve problems in every area of life. Through vivid real-world examples – from handling an unresponsive waitress to inspiring frustrated team members – she demonstrates how intentional communication, clear goal-setting, and empathetic delivery can transform outcomes in both professional and personal contexts.

Marjie shares her practical framework for effective communication: reverse engineer from your desired outcome, understand your audience's mindset, and deliver your message with the right words, tone, and timing. She emphasises the power of listening over talking, the importance of body language, and her favourite Irish proverb: "Keep your eye on the donut, not on the hole." Whether you're leading a team, preparing for a presentation, or simply trying to get your dry cleaning done faster, Marjie's insights offer a refreshing approach to communication that prioritises win-win outcomes, authenticity, and strategic thinking.

If you are looking for a Blueprint to help you and your business manage uncertainty, deal with failure and navigate change then reach out to Julian at: julian@julianrobertsconsulting.com

You can buy my book "Weathering the Storm: A Guide to Building Resilient Teams" on Amazon: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0DFTYN2Y2

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In March 2020, a seemingly routine walk turned into a fight for survival when Laurence Penn, a West Sussex businessman became one of the UK's first COVID-19 patients. Rushed to Worthing Hospital, he was placed in an induced coma in Bed Number One—and didn't wake up for 29 days. When he finally regained consciousness, he faced a devastating reality: he'd lost 25 kilograms of muscle mass, couldn't walk unaided, had developed a drop foot and speech impediment, and was told recovery would take 18 months. But rather than accept this prognosis, he chose a different path—one built on discipline, breaking down impossible goals into small wins, and celebrating every milestone, no matter how minor.

This episode explores an extraordinary journey of resilience and mental toughness, from learning to stand five times in a row to cycling 106 miles along the South Downs Way exactly one year after being put into a coma. Discover how daily discipline, controlling what you can control, and seeking perspective from others can transform adversity into strength. Whether you're facing business challenges, health struggles, or personal setbacks, this conversation offers practical wisdom on building resilience, maintaining focus, and finding purpose in the darkest moments. The conversation also touches on how this life-changing experience reshaped his approach to business, leading him to create a leaner, more intentional way of working that prioritises what truly matters.

If you are looking for a Blueprint to help you and your business manage uncertainty, deal with failure and navigate change then reach out to Julian at: julian@julianrobertsconsulting.com

You can buy my book "Weathering the Storm: A Guide to Building Resilient Teams" on Amazon: https://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B0DFTYN2Y2

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