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In this first insightful episode of MyLunchTable - host Simon Hague explores the critical yet often overlooked realm of ethical decision-making in leadership. With the average person making approximately 35,000 decisions daily, Simon challenges listeners to consider how many of these choices are consciously ethical.

The episode introduces a practical four-step framework—the "Four A's"—for making ethical decisions:

1. Awareness: Recognizing when a decision carries ethical weight and moving beyond autopilot reactions
2. Assessment: Gathering complete information, considering multiple perspectives, and evaluating long-term consequences
3. Alignment: Ensuring decisions reflect your core values and organizational mission
4. Action: Implementing decisions with transparency and taking responsibility for outcomes

Through a compelling real-world scenario involving user privacy versus client demands, Simon demonstrates how this framework can be applied under pressure. He also highlights common ethical pitfalls including stakeholder pressure, ethical fading (gradually justifying poor behavior), and groupthink.

The podcast offers practical strategies for ethical leadership, including implementing an "ethical pause" (asking if you'd make the same decision if it appeared in tomorrow's headlines), identifying your top three guiding values, and seeking external perspective from someone who can ask challenging questions.

Simon concludes by emphasizing that conscious leadership isn't defined by titles but by intentions, reflections, and integrity in daily choices.

The best leaders "don't just do things right—they do the right things even when no one's watching."

Additional Reading

The 4 A Model: A Practical Framework for Ethical Decision-Making

More Information

https://mylunchtable.com/podcast/1

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In this episode of MyLunchTable, we continue to focus on The Conscious Leader's Guide. Host Simon Hague challenges the traditional business assumption that success is measured solely by financial returns as he explores how forward-thinking organizations are redefining achievement through multiple dimensions of impact rather than just profit.

The episode introduces listeners to the evolution of success metrics in business:

1. Traditional Bottom Line: The conventional financial profit measurement (revenue minus costs)
2. Triple Bottom Line: John Elkington's framework encompassing people (social equity, employee wellbeing), planet (environmental responsibility, carbon footprint), and profit (financial sustainability)
3. Quadruple Bottom Line: An emerging concept that adds purpose as a fourth dimension, ensuring values align with actions

Simon highlights Patagonia as a compelling case study of purpose-driven business that donates profits to environmental causes, promotes sustainable sourcing, repairs products to reduce waste, and has transferred company ownership to a trust supporting climate initiatives—all while maintaining loyal customers and strong revenues.

The episode addresses the challenge of measurement, offering practical frameworks including the B Impact Assessment (which evaluates governance, community, environment, and workers), ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) criteria increasingly valued by investors, and balanced scorecards that connect financial goals with broader impact metrics.

Simon emphasizes that businesses don't need to transform overnight, encouraging listeners to "start small" by identifying one core value—whether sustainability or inclusivity—and tracking meaningful progress. He makes a compelling case for why this matters: urgent global challenges like climate change and wealth inequality, changing consumer expectations (particularly among younger generations), and investor priorities shifting toward ESG-aligned companies.

The episode concludes with Simon's powerful assertion that "the most successful companies of the next decade won't be the ones that make the most money—they'll be the ones that make the most difference," inviting listeners to redefine success as sustainable, resilient, and impactful business that benefits all stakeholders.

The Conscious Leader's Guide continues to provide actionable insights for leaders committed to making positive change through ethical, purpose-driven leadership.

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In this enlightening episode of The Conscious Leader's Guide, host Simon Hague explores how natural ecosystems provide profound lessons for effective leadership. Drawing parallels between vibrant rainforests and thriving organizations, Simon reveals how the interconnected balance of nature offers a blueprint for responsible leadership in today's complex business environment.

The episode delves into three core principles that natural ecosystems and successful leadership share:

1. Interconnectedness and Collaboration: Just as coral reefs create symbiotic relationships where diverse species support each other, effective leaders build cultures where individual strengths are recognized and celebrated. Simon shares how his previous venture "Think, Share, Create" embodied the philosophy of unlimited possibility through collaborative innovation.
2. Transparency and Feedback Loops: Nature maintains balance through constant feedback mechanisms (like predator-prey relationships). Similarly, conscious leaders create environments where open dialogue flourishes, team members feel empowered to challenge ideas, and continuous improvement becomes the norm.
3. Adaptability in Leadership: Seasons change, and ecosystems adapt accordingly. Simon emphasizes that effective leaders must demonstrate similar flexibility, adjusting strategies to meet emerging challenges while maintaining ethical frameworks that build organizational resilience.

The episode highlights trust as the foundation for high-performing teams, offering four practical strategies for building it: authenticity (sharing both triumphs and failures), reliability (following through on commitments), equity (ensuring all voices carry equal weight), and empathy (encouraging vulnerability rather than perfection).

Simon concludes by exploring psychological safety—comparing it to birds in synchronized flight or cyclists in a peloton—where team members feel secure enough to express ideas, ask questions, and admit mistakes without fear of judgment. He challenges listeners to reflect on their leadership approach with a powerful question: "Are you fostering trust as strongly as nature fosters balance?"

The Conscious Leader's Guide continues to provide thought-provoking insights for leaders committed to creating ethical, resilient, and thriving organizations through awareness, courage, and integrity.

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Ever felt pressured to make a snap decision-only to regret it later?

Simon will explore the art and science of conscious leadership through the power of the pause. This episode dives into why taking a moment before making choices isn't a weakness, but a vital leadership skill that fosters clarity, ethical action, and better outcomes.

Simon shares real-world wisdom, practical frameworks, and simple rituals to help you slow down and make more intentional decisions-whether you're leading a team, running a business, or navigating everyday life. Expect actionable tools like the Consequences Matrix and discover how micro-pauses, structured journaling, and seeking diverse perspectives can transform your decision-making.

If you're a leader, professional, or anyone looking to make wiser, more values-driven choices, this podcast will help you step back, reflect, and act with purpose. Tune in and join the movement to lead well and live fully-one pause at a time.

Key Frameworks and Practical Tools

1. The Consequences Matrix
A four-question tool to clarify the impact of any decision:

• What will happen if I take this decision?
• What will happen if I don’t take this decision?
• What won’t happen if I take this decision?
• What won’t happen if I don’t take this decision?

Reflecting on these questions helps reveal blind spots and long-term consequences.

2. Structured Journaling
Before making a decision, jot down key prompts such as:

• Who else does this affect?
• Will I be proud of this choice a year from now?

3. Micro-Pauses
Insert intentional short breaks-just 60 seconds-before responding to emails or making commitments. A brief pause can reset your perspective and prevent impulsive reactions.

4. Consultation with Diverse Perspectives
Actively seek input from people who think differently to broaden your view before narrowing your choice. This helps avoid tunnel vision and surfaces ethical considerations.

5. Reflection Rituals
Schedule a regular "reflection hour" (e.g., every Friday afternoon) to review your week’s decisions, identify what felt rushed, and consider what could have benefited from deeper thought.

6. Stakeholder 360
Ask: How will this decision affect my team, customers, and community-now and in three years? Inviting feedback from these groups enhances ethical awareness and sustainable leadership.

Takeaway

Pausing before making decisions isn’t a delay-it’s a conscious practice that leads to better leadership, stronger relationships, and more meaningful outcomes.

Episode Notes : https://mylunchtable.com/podcast/4

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In this episode, Simon addresses a sobering fact: over half of UK small businesses have less than six months’ cash reserves. If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Simon guides listeners from financial panic to practical planning, offering three actionable steps to boost financial clarity and build resilience-without needing to become an accountant.

Discover how to run a simple cashflow health check, build habits for greater financial visibility, and why seeking external support is a sign of strength, not weakness. With relatable stories and hands-on advice, this episode is your invitation to take ownership of your business’s financial future and lead with confidence.

Key Frameworks and Practical Tools

1. Cashflow Health Check
A quick, three-question exercise to assess your business’s financial runway:

• What’s your average monthly outgoing over the past 90 days?
• How much liquid cash do you have available right now?
• Divide your cash by your average monthly spend-this is your runway (in months).

If your runway is less than six months, you’re not alone. Use this clarity to identify costs to trim, renegotiate supplier terms, or accelerate outstanding payments.

2. Triple Your Visibility
Build financial confidence with simple weekly routines:

• Every Monday: Spend 10 minutes reviewing last week’s income and expenses.
• Midweek: Forecast known payments and income for the coming days.
• End of week: Plan for the next week’s cash flow.

No fancy tools required-a basic spreadsheet works, but apps like Xero or SmartBooks can automate and visualize your numbers for added insight.

3. Seek External Support
Don’t go it alone. Engage an accountant or a business coach to:

• Translate numbers into actionable strategy.
• Help you confront tricky decisions.
• Build long-term financial resilience.

Asking for help isn’t a weakness-it’s a smart business move that can transform shame or confusion into clarity and confidence.

Bonus: The Pots Method
Inspired by Jim Rohn, set up separate “pots” for different business needs (e.g., taxes, projects, reserves) as income comes in. This proactive approach reduces reliance on credit and helps you plan for future investments.

Takeaway

You don’t need to be a finance expert, but you do need to own your business’s financial health. Start with a cashflow health check, build visibility habits, and seek support when needed. With clarity comes confidence-and a stronger, more resilient business. Join Simon at the lunch table and lead your business to a better, more secure future.

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Join us as we move through fear-not around it-using proven psychological frameworks and hands-on strategies. Discover how to turn setbacks into stepping stones, foster a culture where learning from mistakes is the norm, and unlock your own growth edge. Whether you’re leading a business, advising one, or standing on the edge of a new venture, this episode will help you shift from “What if I fail?” to “What can I learn?”

Key Frameworks and Practical Tools

1. The A-B-C-D-E Model (from Rational Emotive Behavior Therapy, REBT)
A step-by-step mental framework to reframe failure and disrupt unhelpful thinking:

• A – Activating Event: What happened? (e.g., a campaign flopped)
• B – Belief: What belief do you hold about the event? (“I always mess up.”)
• C – Consequence: How do you feel and act as a result? (Deflated, avoid new ideas)
• D – Dispute: Challenge the belief. Is it really true? What else could be true?
• E – Effective New Behavior: Choose a constructive response (seek feedback, try again, reframe as a lesson)

This model helps you move from spiraling self-doubt to actionable learning and growth.

2. Normalize Micro-Failures

• Treat failures as feedback, not disasters.
• Break big goals into small experiments or “micro tests.”
• If something doesn’t work, see it as data for improvement, not a verdict on your abilities.
• This approach builds psychological safety, making it easier for teams to innovate and try again.

3. Growth Mindset Practices

• View failure as a lesson, not a final judgment.
• Focus on what you can control.
• Break projects into manageable chunks.
• Use positive mantras and self-talk to reinforce confidence and optimism.

4. Reflection and Preparation Techniques

• Analyze which elements of a “failure” actually went well and which need adjustment.
• Give yourself time to reset and visualize success before high-stakes moments.
• Use reflection to identify strengths and areas for growth, rather than dwelling on setbacks.

Takeaway

Fear of failure is universal, but it doesn’t have to be a dead end. Use frameworks like the A-B-C-D-E model to challenge limiting beliefs, normalize micro-failures as learning opportunities, and cultivate a growth mindset. Surround yourself with people-like coaches-who help you move from fear to action.

Download the free failure reframing worksheet from mylunchtable.com/podcast/6 and start learning forward. Let’s build a braver, more innovative business community-one lesson at a time.

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Running a small business means wearing many hats, from managing sales and marketing to handling customer service and admin tasks. This can be overwhelming, but automation tools are here to help. These clever solutions can take care of repetitive jobs, freeing up your time to focus on growing your business.

What Are Small Business Automation Tools?

These are software and apps designed to automate everyday business tasks. Whether it’s sending emails, scheduling social media posts, managing invoices, or tracking leads, automation tools handle the routine work so you don’t have to. This means fewer mistakes, more time for important work, and a smoother-running business.

Popular Tools for Small Businesses

• Make or Zapier: Connects your favourite apps and automates workflows without coding. For example, you can automatically save email attachments to your cloud storage or send new leads straight to your CRM.
• ActiveCampaign or Hubspot: Combines email marketing and customer management, making it easy to send targeted messages and keep track of customer interactions.
• Hootsuite and Buffer: Schedule and manage all your social media posts from one place, saving you hours each week.
• Xero: Automates accounting tasks like invoicing and expense tracking, giving you a clear view of your finances at all times.
• Calendly: Simplifies appointment scheduling by letting clients book meetings based on your real-time availability.

How Automation Helps Your Business

• Saves Time: Routine tasks like sending emails, posting to social media, and managing invoices are done automatically, giving you more hours in the day.
• Reduces Errors: Automation cuts out manual data entry, helping you avoid costly mistakes.
• Improves Productivity: Your team can focus on bigger projects, knowing the daily admin is taken care of.
• Enhances Customer Experience: Quick responses and timely follow-ups keep your customers happy.

Getting Started

Start by automating one or two key tasks, such as email marketing or social media scheduling. Many tools offer free trials, so you can see what works best for your business. As you get comfortable, you can automate more areas and enjoy even greater benefits.

In short, small business automation tools are a smart investment. They help you work more efficiently, reduce stress, and set your business up for growth.

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Let’s start with a bold claim: Companies with a strong, integrated purpose don’t just grow faster-they build deeper employee engagement and customer loyalty than those chasing profit alone. But are we really seeing the end of the “profit at all costs” era? I believe so, and here’s why.

Why Purpose Matters More Than Ever

The world’s biggest challenges-climate change, inequality, mental health, polarization-can’t be solved by squeezing out another percentage point of quarterly returns. Leaders are waking up to the fact that business doesn’t operate in a vacuum. We’re part of society, and expectations are shifting:

• Employees want meaning in their work.
• Consumers want brands that stand for something real.
• Investors care about long-term sustainability, not just short-term gains.

If you’re running your business like it’s 1999, you’re going to struggle in 2025.

Real-World Example: Purpose in Action

Take Zen Internet, a B Corp that recently won my business. Our sales conversation focused not just on price, but on values-how their mission aligns with my own. That’s what conscious business looks like in practice.

Purpose Isn’t a Slogan-It’s Strategy

Today’s most forward-thinking CEOs use purpose as their strategic North Star. This isn’t about greenwashing or empty slogans. It’s about defining a real, grounded purpose that addresses societal needs while still generating economic value. Profit and purpose aren’t opposites; when done right, purpose drives profit.

What Does a Purpose-Driven Company Look Like?

• Hiring: You look for people who share your mission, not just their skills.
• Performance: You measure impact, not just revenue-think carbon reduction, diversity, community outcomes.
• Culture: Purpose shapes every decision, from product design to partnerships.

Patagonia is a classic example. Their mission-“We’re in business to save our home planet”-permeates every aspect of their operations. It’s not just on the wall; it’s in their DNA.

Why Purpose Pays Off

• Talent Magnet: Top performers, especially younger generations, want meaningful work.
• Customer Loyalty: People stick with brands that stand for something.
• Innovation: Teams aligned around a mission solve the right problems, not just any problems.

If you’re leading a business today, integrating purpose isn’t just the right thing-it’s the smart thing. Purpose becomes the engine; profit is the outcome. As John Mackey of Whole Foods says, “A conscious business is an ethos that permeates the entire organization.”

Strategy without purpose is just tactics in disguise. But when purpose leads, you move from transaction to transformation.

Join the Movement

This is episode one of a five-part series on Conscious Leadership Transformations. If this resonated with you, subscribe, leave a review, or share this with a colleague who needs to hear it.

Stay curious. Lead with purpose. Shape the future. And remember: when you engage your deeper mission, business gets a whole lot more fun.