Grayson James is a former CEO, author of Full Contract Performance The Internal Art of Organizational Collaboration and he's a sixth Dan black belt in Aikido - a particular interest of mine as I often use the term emotional Aikido in my programs to help people master the difficult conversations that are part of leadership. 

Together we go deep on the embodied experience of leadership and especially how that applies to working effectively with others. We explore somatic awareness in leadership - paying attention to our physical intention and interactions. Expanding our field of vision, checking our blind spots - there is so much we can be better aware of and utilise for enhanced collaboration.

Shownotes

See more at http://www.zoerouth.com/podcast/leadership-framework-grayson-james

Key Moments 

Planet Human: The self-checkout falls from favour - sometimes the human touch is best.

Planet Zoë: I’m taking a fresh perspective on 2024 with the Leadership Conclave, a beautiful day of reflection and connection planned for March. Find out more. 

The importance of collaboration in leadership (00:03:34)
Introducing guest Grayson James and the concept of somatic awareness, embodied leadership, and the significance of collaboration in leadership.

The learning conversation (00:13:08)
Discussing the importance of learning together and expanding what is possible through comparing data, sharing interpretations, and exploring differences and commonalities.

The design conversation (00:14:25)
Exploring the process of designing the future together, making decisions, declarations, and setting priorities, goals, and strategies.

The fulfilment conversation (00:17:05)
Highlighting the significance of executing promises, managing commitments, building trust, and ensuring successful collaboration through effective communication and follow-through.

The importance of collaboration (00:24:13)
Our success is dependent on the success of others.

Creating a constructive environment (00:25:02) 

The importance of framing the conversation, focusing on root causes instead of blame, and creating a shared perspective.

Paying attention the correct way (00:26:43) 

Different ways of paying attention and the need to shift attention from blame to learning and expanding perspectives.

Somatic awareness in collaboration (00:36:34)
Exploration of the connection between somatic awareness and effective collaboration, using the principles of Aikido to respond without aggression and work with the energy of others.

Breathing practices for calming the nervous system (00:40:57)
The practicality and effectiveness of using simple breathing practices to reset the nervous system, enhance receptivity, and prepare for difficult conversations and collaboration.