My guest today is the courageous Jessica Hickman
As the founder of Bullyology and Upstand Academy, Jessica is known globally as ‘The Bullyologist’. Bullyology is a professional anti-bullying methodology derived from personal experiences and meticulous research, dedicated to breaking the silence on bullying while striving to promote healthy workplace relationships.
Jessica’s mission is to create thriving workplace cultures where individuals are empowered to be Upstanders rather than silent bystanders.
Jessica has worked across the UK and Australia in multiple industries including public and private sectors. She is known for her work delivering an improved workplace culture winning multiple industry awards. Delivering motivational workshops with passion and commitment to engage internal staff and external clients on ‘unspeakable’ topics. Her passion lays with delivering social inclusion programs to promote equality, psychological safety and trust within the workplace.
Jessica describes how she now uses her adversity as her superpower to make a difference for others. She is super passionate and driven to do this and we chat about:

Jessica’s journey to becoming known as the Bullyologist
The Upstander effect
Tips to becoming an Upstander
The shift in bullying now more people are working from home
How we can all make a difference in this space
LinksBullyology

<div>My guest today is the courageous Jessica Hickman</div><div> </div><div>As the founder of Bullyology and Upstand Academy, Jessica is known globally as ‘The Bullyologist’. Bullyology is a professional anti-bullying methodology derived from personal experiences and meticulous research, dedicated to breaking the silence on bullying while striving to promote healthy workplace relationships.</div><div> </div><div>Jessica’s mission is to create thriving workplace cultures where individuals are empowered to be Upstanders rather than silent bystanders.</div><div> </div><div>Jessica has worked across the UK and Australia in multiple industries including public and private sectors. She is known for her work delivering an improved workplace culture winning multiple industry awards. Delivering motivational workshops with passion and commitment to engage internal staff and external clients on ‘unspeakable’ topics. Her passion lays with delivering social inclusion programs to promote equality, psychological safety and trust within the workplace.</div><div> </div><div>Jessica describes how she now uses her adversity as her superpower to make a difference for others. She is super passionate and driven to do this and we chat about:</div><div> </div><ul><li>Jessica’s journey to becoming known as the Bullyologist</li><li>The Upstander effect</li><li>Tips to becoming an Upstander</li><li>The shift in bullying now more people are working from home</li><li>How we can all make a difference in this space</li></ul><div> </div><div>Links</div><div><a href="https://bullyology.com" target="_blank">Bullyology</a></div><div> </div>

Want to know the secret to confident and successful leadership?

Every week, Leading You showcases leadership of all kinds and you get the scoop on how to be an effective, modern leader who makes an impact.

There’s one thing we all have in common. We’re all leaders. First and foremost, you’re a leader of you. You don’t need a title to be a leader. Leadership is a mindset which anyone can adopt to create influence. The more leaders the world has, the better it will be.

I'll let you into something I know to be true - You can’t be a leader of others unless you’re a leader of self first. So if you want to have impact that leads to prosperity and happiness, it all starts with you. With your mindset and personal leadership toolbox, which Leading You will help you build up.

Leading you is hosted by Julie Hyde, an entrepreneur, corporate drop out and passionate leader. Julie knows one thing: you can’t control what happens to you but you can control how you respond. It’s why Leading You is important.

Each week, guests share their secret sauce. They reveal their roadmaps to success. How they’ve stayed anchored to who they are, insights into their courage and resilience and how to be emotionally and behaviourally agile. It’s a conversation, not an interrogation, and you’ll hear the human side of household names.

Want to know the secret to confident and successful leadership?
Every week, Leading You showcases leadership of all kinds and you get the scoop on how to be an effective, modern leader who makes an impact.
There’s one thing we all have in common. We’re all leaders. First and foremost, you’re a leader of you. You don’t need a title to be a leader. Leadership is a mindset which anyone can adopt to create influence. The more leaders the world has, the better it will be.
I'll let you into something I know to be true - You can’t be a leader of others unless you’re a leader of self first. So if you want to have impact that leads to prosperity and happiness, it all starts with you. With your mindset and personal leadership toolbox, which Leading You will help you build up.
Leading you is hosted by Julie Hyde, an entrepreneur, corporate drop out and passionate leader. Julie knows one thing: you can’t control what happens to you but you can control how you respond. It’s why Leading You is important.
Each week, guests share their secret sauce. They reveal their roadmaps to success. How they’ve stayed anchored to who they are, insights into their courage and resilience and how to be emotionally and behaviourally agile. It’s a conversation, not an interrogation, and you’ll hear the human side of household names.

A Podcast dedicated to business owners and leaders to inspire you to make it count

Leading You

Want to know the secret to confident and successful leadership?
Every week, Leading You showcases leadership of all kinds and you get the scoop on how to be an effective, modern leader who makes an impact.
There’s one thing we all have in common. We’re all leaders. First and foremost, you’re a leader of you. You don’t need a title to be a leader. Leadership is a mindset which anyone can adopt to create influence. The more leaders the world has, the better it will be.
I'll let you into something I know to be true - You can’t be a leader of others unless you’re a leader of self first. So if you want to have impact that leads to prosperity and happiness, it all starts with you. With your mindset and personal leadership toolbox, which Leading You will help you build up.
Leading you is hosted by Julie Hyde, an entrepreneur, corporate drop out and passionate leader. Julie knows one thing: you can’t control what happens to you but you can control how you respond. It’s why Leading You is important.
Each week, guests share their secret sauce. They reveal their roadmaps to success. How they’ve stayed anchored to who they are, insights into their courage and resilience and how to be emotionally and behaviourally agile. It’s a conversation, not an interrogation, and you’ll hear the human side of household names.

My guest today is the courageous Jessica Hickman
As the founder of Bullyology and Upstand Academy, Jessica is...

The Upstander Effect - Jessica Hickman

The only part of our future we can know for certain is that things will change.

It’s inevitable, and nowhere is that more apparent than in the fast-paced world of business and technology. As a leader, being able to guide people through this change is but it’s not about having all the answers—it's about how you bring people along with you on this journey.

Recently, I sat down with Steve Vamos, author, speaker, and veteran leader in the technology and digital media industries, to discuss what it truly means to lead effectively in times of change.

One of my favourite nuggets of wisdom Steve shared the power of mindset in determining our fate. He drew from his diverse experiences, comparing different leadership mindsets at Apple and how they influenced the company's trajectory. He explained that during times of change, clinging tightly to what you know can be a hindrance. In order to thrive, leaders need a mindset that embraces flexibility, learning, and growth. Mistakes, Steve argued, should be seen as steps towards mastery rather than failures to avoid.

A common mistake Steven has seen leaders making is not getting their team aligned with the strategy before executing change. To avoid this, he recommends being clear about your purpose and priorities, driving alignment across the board, and constantly reviewing progress. This ensures everyone is on the same page and resources are optimally utilised. Leaders must encourage feedback and carry out difficult conversations as a part of this process, ensuring the team is equipped to adapt as needed.

But remember, leading change isn't just about managing others - it’s also about managing yourself. A leader who doesn’t make time for their health, wellbeing, and self-awareness will struggle to stay effective.

Simple habits like getting enough exercise, maintaining mindfulness, and seeking honest feedback keep us better equipped to lead others through uncertain times without succumbing to burnout.

Preparing ourselves to face challenges proactively rather than reactively helps maintain a clearer, calmer mind ready to tackle whatever comes our way.

So, change isn’t going anywhere, and it’s not slowing down, but we don’t have to be afraid of it. By focusing on relationships, listening actively, and genuinely caring about your team's development, you’ll be able to confidently navigate any storm.

Until next time, stay resilient and remember it’s all about the people.



LINKS

Connect with Steve Vamos

Website:     https://www.stevevamos.com/

Book:    https://www.stevevamos.com/through-shifts-and-shocks

LinkedIn:https://au.linkedin.com/in/stevevamos



Order My New Book “You Always Have A Choice”here

Connect with Julie:

LinkedIn:    https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-hyde/

Instagram: @juliehydeleads

Website:     https://juliehyde.com.au

The only part of our future we can know for certain is that things will change.
It’s inevitable, and nowhere is that more apparent than in the fast-paced world of business and technology. As a leader, being able to guide people through this change is but it’s not about having all the answers—it's about how you bring people along with you on this journey.
Recently, I sat down with Steve Vamos, author, speaker, and veteran leader in the technology and digital media industries, to discuss what it truly means to lead effectively in times of change.
One of my favourite nuggets of wisdom Steve shared the power of mindset in determining our fate. He drew from his diverse experiences, comparing different leadership mindsets at Apple and how they influenced the company's trajectory. He explained that during times of change, clinging tightly to what you know can be a hindrance. In order to thrive, leaders need a mindset that embraces flexibility, learning, and growth. Mistakes, Steve argued, should be seen as steps towards mastery rather than failures to avoid.
A common mistake Steven has seen leaders making is not getting their team aligned with the strategy before executing change. To avoid this, he recommends being clear about your purpose and priorities, driving alignment across the board, and constantly reviewing progress. This ensures everyone is on the same page and resources are optimally utilised. Leaders must encourage feedback and carry out difficult conversations as a part of this process, ensuring the team is equipped to adapt as needed.
But remember, leading change isn't just about managing others - it’s also about managing yourself. A leader who doesn’t make time for their health, wellbeing, and self-awareness will struggle to stay effective.
Simple habits like getting enough exercise, maintaining mindfulness, and seeking honest feedback keep us better equipped to lead others through uncertain times without succumbing to burnout.
Preparing ourselves to face challenges proactively rather than reactively helps maintain a clearer, calmer mind ready to tackle whatever comes our way.
So, change isn’t going anywhere, and it’s not slowing down, but we don’t have to be afraid of it. By focusing on relationships, listening actively, and genuinely caring about your team's development, you’ll be able to confidently navigate any storm.
Until next time, stay resilient and remember it’s all about the people.
 
LINKS
Connect with Steve Vamos
Website:     <a href="https://www.stevevamos.com/">https://www.stevevamos.com/</a>
Book:    <a href="https://www.stevevamos.com/through-shifts-and-shocks">https://www.stevevamos.com/through-shifts-and-shocks</a>
LinkedIn: <a href="https://au.linkedin.com/in/stevevamos">https://au.linkedin.com/in/stevevamos</a>
 
Order My New Book “You Always Have A Choice”<a href="https://youalwayshaveachoice.com.au/"> here</a> 
Connect with Julie:
LinkedIn:    <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-hyde/">https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-hyde/</a>
Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/juliehydeleads/">@juliehydeleads</a>
Website:     <a href="https://juliehyde.com.au/">https://juliehyde.com.au</a>

The Secret Sauce to Leading Change

One of the many difficulties for those with ADHD is the constant need to try and fit into a world that really isn't designed for a complex brain.

For neurodivergent leaders, or those leading neurodivergent team members, the traditional workplace can present challenges that not only negatively affect performance, but have the potential to create psychological harm. 

So how do we create inclusive, safe environments for ourselves and those we lead?

Julie Cockerill is an expert in the field of neurodiversity and workplace inclusivity, and has an ADHD diagnosis herself. I had the pleasure of sitting down to chat with her all about it. Julie is the founder of Lemon Co, a leadership coaching and consultancy firm dedicated to transforming how leaders thrive amidst today’s fast-paced demands. Julie blends her experience with a deep knowledge of brain science, positive psychology and emotional intelligence to empower leaders to lead boldly, break through burnout and create inclusive, brain friendly workplaces.

Julie shares her insights around understanding the unique way our brains function, which empowers us to better manage our work and energy. She takes us through her own journey to an ADHD diagnosis and how she has learnt to embrace her neurodivergence. 

Historically, ADHD was often overlooked or misdiagnosed, especially in women, leading to a myriad of misunderstood emotional experiences. Our discussion underscores the importance of an accurate understanding of ADHD, a neurodevelopmental condition characterised by varying symptoms, complexities and brain wiring differences.

Julie passionately describes what it means to create a neurodivergent-inclusive workplace. The brain's natural inclination is to seek safety and reward, hence organisations must foster an environment where team members feel secure and engaged. Psychological safety and inclusive leadership are key to unlocking creativity, learning and collaboration. 

When a team member discloses their neurodivergent diagnosis, it’s crucial for leaders to listen and respond with curiosity and compassion. We discuss building trust through understanding and vulnerability, which can greatly enhance a team's dynamics. 

In a world still learning to embrace neurodiversity, these conversations are vital. I’m grateful to Julie for sharing her insights and for the important work she does in paving the way for more inclusive workplaces. As leaders, may we continue to evolve, ensuring that everyone can bring their whole selves to work, shining brightly in their own unique ways.



LINKS

Connect with Julie Cockerill:

Website:     https://juliecockerill.au/

LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliecockerill

Instagram:    @juliecockerill.au



Order My New Book “You Always Have A Choice”here

Connect with Julie:

LinkedIn:    https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-hyde/

Instagram: @juliehydeleads

Website:     https://juliehyde.com.au

One of the many difficulties for those with ADHD is the constant need to try and fit into a world that really isn't designed for a complex brain.
For neurodivergent leaders, or those leading neurodivergent team members, the traditional workplace can present challenges that not only negatively affect performance, but have the potential to create psychological harm. 
So how do we create inclusive, safe environments for ourselves and those we lead?
Julie Cockerill is an expert in the field of neurodiversity and workplace inclusivity, and has an ADHD diagnosis herself. I had the pleasure of sitting down to chat with her all about it. Julie is the founder of Lemon Co, a leadership coaching and consultancy firm dedicated to transforming how leaders thrive amidst today’s fast-paced demands. Julie blends her experience with a deep knowledge of brain science, positive psychology and emotional intelligence to empower leaders to lead boldly, break through burnout and create inclusive, brain friendly workplaces.
Julie shares her insights around understanding the unique way our brains function, which empowers us to better manage our work and energy. She takes us through her own journey to an ADHD diagnosis and how she has learnt to embrace her neurodivergence. 
Historically, ADHD was often overlooked or misdiagnosed, especially in women, leading to a myriad of misunderstood emotional experiences. Our discussion underscores the importance of an accurate understanding of ADHD, a neurodevelopmental condition characterised by varying symptoms, complexities and brain wiring differences.
Julie passionately describes what it means to create a neurodivergent-inclusive workplace. The brain's natural inclination is to seek safety and reward, hence organisations must foster an environment where team members feel secure and engaged. Psychological safety and inclusive leadership are key to unlocking creativity, learning and collaboration. 
When a team member discloses their neurodivergent diagnosis, it’s crucial for leaders to listen and respond with curiosity and compassion. We discuss building trust through understanding and vulnerability, which can greatly enhance a team's dynamics. 
In a world still learning to embrace neurodiversity, these conversations are vital. I’m grateful to Julie for sharing her insights and for the important work she does in paving the way for more inclusive workplaces. As leaders, may we continue to evolve, ensuring that everyone can bring their whole selves to work, shining brightly in their own unique ways.
 
LINKS
Connect with Julie Cockerill:
Website:     <a href="https://juliecockerill.au/">https://juliecockerill.au/</a> 
LinkedIn: <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliecockerill">https://www.linkedin.com/in/juliecockerill</a> 
Instagram:    <a href="https://www.instagram.com/juliecockerill.au/">@juliecockerill.au</a>
 
Order My New Book “You Always Have A Choice”<a href="https://youalwayshaveachoice.com.au/"> here</a> 
Connect with Julie:
LinkedIn:    <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-hyde/">https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-hyde/</a>
Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/juliehydeleads/">@juliehydeleads</a>
Website:     <a href="https://juliehyde.com.au/">https://juliehyde.com.au</a>

Neurodiversity in the Workplace: How Leaders Can Create Psychological Safety with Julie Cockerill

You know that feeling when you walk into a room and the tension is so palpable you could cut it with a knife? It's as if there's a massive elephant taking up all the space, silently daring anyone to acknowledge it.

 No one ever does, because we’re scared. But if we’re brave enough to face our fears, we can shrink the elephant and give our team more room to shine.

I recently had the pleasure of discussing this very topic with Genevieve Hawkins, an expert with deep skills in health, human behaviour, and commercial business, and the author of “Shrinking Elephants.” Our conversation left me with invaluable insights that I'm excited to share with you

According to Genevieve, the elephants arise when people see the same situation through different lenses, shaped by their experiences and perspectives. The first step to confronting them is to acknowledge that other people might see things differently than you. Not because they want to be difficult, but because their view of the problem—or the elephant—is different from ours. Having differing views isn’t a bad thing in itself.  It’s when we fail to acknowledge and discuss these differences that conflicts grow, blocking effective communication and productivity.

So why don’t people speak up more often? The biggest reason is fear - fear of confrontation, fear of career repercussions, or simply the belief that speaking out wouldn't change anything. It's an environment we've all experienced, where discomfort festers quietly and impacts not just culture and teamwork but individual mental health as well.

Fortunately, Genevieve shares her advice on overcoming that fear and shrinking these elephants - trust. When disagreements are addressed openly, trust is built—not on agreeing, but on the shared ability to have open discussions about differing views. To foster this environment, Genevieve suggests leaders intentionally create bonds with their teams. By finding common ground, recognising strengths, and being curious about team members’ perspectives, leaders can create a safe space where divergent opinions are valued.

Managing group discussions when an elephant emerges requires tact. Genevieve recommends establishing a common language for addressing and resolving these issues. By recognising the elephant and setting ground rules for respectful discussion, teams can embrace diverse perspectives, turning potential flashpoints into opportunities for creative problem-solving.

Finally, Genevieve reminded me that workplaces aren't meant to be free of conflict. On the contrary, the absence of disagreement often indicates tension and lurking quiet conflicts. Constructive conflict, when managed well, can be beneficial by providing a platform for new ideas and improvements.

So, look around your workplace for any elephants lingering in the corners, it’s time to illuminate them! In doing so, you’re opening pathways to trust, innovation, and ultimately, a stronger, more cohesive team.



LINKS

Connect with Genevieve Hawkins:

LinkedIn:    https://au.linkedin.com/in/genevievehawkins

Website:     https://genevievehawkins.com.au/



Order My New Book “You Always Have A Choice”here

Connect with Julie:

LinkedIn:    https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-hyde/

Instagram: @juliehydeleads

Website:     https://juliehyde.com.au

You know that feeling when you walk into a room and the tension is so palpable you could cut it with a knife? It's as if there's a massive elephant taking up all the space, silently daring anyone to acknowledge it.
 No one ever does, because we’re scared. But if we’re brave enough to face our fears, we can shrink the elephant and give our team more room to shine.
I recently had the pleasure of discussing this very topic with Genevieve Hawkins, an expert with deep skills in health, human behaviour, and commercial business, and the author of “Shrinking Elephants.” Our conversation left me with invaluable insights that I'm excited to share with you
According to Genevieve, the elephants arise when people see the same situation through different lenses, shaped by their experiences and perspectives. The first step to confronting them is to acknowledge that other people might see things differently than you. Not because they want to be difficult, but because their view of the problem—or the elephant—is different from ours. Having differing views isn’t a bad thing in itself.  It’s when we fail to acknowledge and discuss these differences that conflicts grow, blocking effective communication and productivity.
So why don’t people speak up more often? The biggest reason is fear - fear of confrontation, fear of career repercussions, or simply the belief that speaking out wouldn't change anything. It's an environment we've all experienced, where discomfort festers quietly and impacts not just culture and teamwork but individual mental health as well.
Fortunately, Genevieve shares her advice on overcoming that fear and shrinking these elephants - trust. When disagreements are addressed openly, trust is built—not on agreeing, but on the shared ability to have open discussions about differing views. To foster this environment, Genevieve suggests leaders intentionally create bonds with their teams. By finding common ground, recognising strengths, and being curious about team members’ perspectives, leaders can create a safe space where divergent opinions are valued.
Managing group discussions when an elephant emerges requires tact. Genevieve recommends establishing a common language for addressing and resolving these issues. By recognising the elephant and setting ground rules for respectful discussion, teams can embrace diverse perspectives, turning potential flashpoints into opportunities for creative problem-solving.
Finally, Genevieve reminded me that workplaces aren't meant to be free of conflict. On the contrary, the absence of disagreement often indicates tension and lurking quiet conflicts. Constructive conflict, when managed well, can be beneficial by providing a platform for new ideas and improvements.
So, look around your workplace for any elephants lingering in the corners, it’s time to illuminate them! In doing so, you’re opening pathways to trust, innovation, and ultimately, a stronger, more cohesive team.
 
LINKS
Connect with Genevieve Hawkins:
LinkedIn:    <a href="https://au.linkedin.com/in/genevievehawkins">https://au.linkedin.com/in/genevievehawkins</a>
Website:     <a href="https://genevievehawkins.com.au/">https://genevievehawkins.com.au/</a>
 
Order My New Book “You Always Have A Choice”<a href="https://youalwayshaveachoice.com.au/"> here</a> 
Connect with Julie:
LinkedIn:    <a href="https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-hyde/">https://www.linkedin.com/in/julie-hyde/</a>
Instagram: <a href="https://www.instagram.com/juliehydeleads/">@juliehydeleads</a>
Website:     <a href="https://juliehyde.com.au/">https://juliehyde.com.au</a>

The Upstander Effect - Jessica Hickman

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