Hello Pocket Dojo Community,

I’m delighted to bring you some exciting highlights from our latest podcast episode, where I had the pleasure of hosting a heartfelt conversation between Asha and Simon Hampel. This episode is brimming with wisdom, personal stories, and insights that I believe will resonate deeply with you. Here are some key takeaways and intriguing points we discussed:

Key Lessons and Ideas:

Leadership and Purpose: Simon shares his journey from running businesses in his 20s and 30s to leading NGOs across Africa and India. He talks about transitioning from traditional leadership to purposeful leadership and how this shift has shaped his life.

Personal Growth and Resilience: Simon opens up about the challenges he faced, including losing businesses and dealing with guilt and shame. He emphasises the importance of resilience and learning from these experiences.

Balancing Life as an Older Dad: With three young children, Simon discusses the joys and challenges of being an older parent and how it keeps him young and grounded.

Building a Community: Simon talks about creating Sarsen, an organisation aimed at fostering a community that supports personal and collective growth. He highlights the importance of having a council of trusted individuals who can provide guidance and support.

The Power of Presence: We delve into the significance of being present in our lives, despite the overwhelming distractions. Simon shares practical tips on how to cultivate presence through simple practices like walking in nature, meditation, and even chopping carrots!

Curiosities and Intriguing Points:

Experiential Learning: Simon's work with Global Leaders Quest focuses on growing wise, compassionate leadership through experiential learning. He shares fascinating stories from his time leading expeditions and living in remote parts of the world.

Trust and Letting Go: One of the most profound insights Simon offers is about the power of trust. He encourages us to let go of control and trust the process of life, which can lead to unexpected and powerful outcomes.

Purpose and Energy: Simon discusses how our sense of purpose evolves over time and how connecting with our true purpose can energise and motivate us.

Creating Safe Spaces: We explore the importance of creating environments where people feel heard and safe. Simon shares practical advice on how to foster trust and open communication within any organisation.

I hope these highlights spark your curiosity and inspire you to listen to the full episode. Simon's journey is a testament to the power of resilience, purpose, and community. Tune in to hear more about his incredible experiences and the valuable lessons he's learned along the way.

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