If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you!

In this bonus episode, Julia and Valerie unpack why so many high-performing professionals delay their own development waiting for things to calm down, for space to appear, or for the perfect time that never quite arrives.

Julia reflects on the hidden resistance that often sits behind busyness, over-delivering and perfectionism. She shares why growth can feel threatening when your identity is built around being competent, and how reconnecting with your values and purpose can shift everything.

If you’ve been putting off your next step because life is too full, this conversation is a gentle challenge and a timely reminder that your growth doesn’t have to wait.

We are thrilled to share 'The Secrets of Learning and Development' Podcast has won Podcast of the Year 2025

A heartfelt THANK YOU to all our listeners for your encouragement, shares and support. It means the world.

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Help us continue making great content and get a shout-out on the show!

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2389736/support

If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you!

In this warm and insightful episode, we’re joined by Victoria Rennoldson – global communication coach, speaker and founder of Culture Cuppa. Her journey takes us from international brand marketing to supporting leaders worldwide to communicate with clarity, confidence and cultural awareness.

We explore how Victoria built a purposeful career after stepping away from corporate life, and what it takes to find your voice in cross-cultural environments. She shares how a near-relocation, a bold career pivot and a decade of coaching led to her bestselling book, Become a Global Leader.

With candour and depth, Victoria reflects on confidence as a daily practice, the difference between being seen and being understood, and the legacy that drove her to capture ten years of insights. A rich conversation for anyone looking to lead across difference, show up with authenticity and create space for meaningful communication.

Key Learnings

Confidence grows through action, not before it.
Victoria highlights a common misconception many professionals hold — that confidence must come before action. In reality, she explains, confidence is built through action. By taking the first step, even when you're unsure, and continuing to show up, you gradually build the self-belief and presence needed to lead effectively. This mindset shift is especially powerful for those stepping into visibility or navigating unfamiliar territory.

Communication across cultures requires intentionality and adaptability.
Drawing from her global career and coaching experience, Victoria emphasises that effective cross-cultural communication goes far beyond language skills. It involves recognising non-verbal cues, understanding unspoken norms, and adapting your approach to create meaningful connection — especially in virtual environments. Tools may enable collaboration, but it’s human connection that ensures communication truly lands.

Guest information:

https://linkedin.com/in/victoria-rennoldson

https://culturecuppa.com/book

https://culturecuppa.com/podcast/

We are thrilled to share 'The Secrets of Learning and Development' Podcast has won Podcast of the Year 2025

A heartfelt THANK YOU to all our listeners for your encouragement, shares and support. It means the world.

Support the show

Support the Show
Help us continue making great content and get a shout-out on the show!

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2389736/support

If you enjoyed this podcast, we'd love to hear from you!

In this bonus episode, Julia and Valerie explore why learning goals matter more than ever in today’s fast-paced professional world. It’s not about rigid plans or endless courses, but about staying relevant, focused and intentional with how you grow.

Valerie shares how she helps professionals cut through the overwhelm by identifying learning goals that actually support their next steps not just their current role. From daily habits to quick wins, she offers practical ways to embed learning into the everyday. Julia adds her perspective from coaching, highlighting how small actions and naming your intentions can create powerful momentum.

Whether you’re feeling behind on your development or just want to make smarter choices about where to invest your energy, this episode offers grounded advice and plenty to reflect on.

We are thrilled to share 'The Secrets of Learning and Development' Podcast has won Podcast of the Year 2025

A heartfelt THANK YOU to all our listeners for your encouragement, shares and support. It means the world.

Support the show

Support the Show
Help us continue making great content and get a shout-out on the show!

https://www.buzzsprout.com/2389736/support