What I Learned from Kate Manton’s Inspiring Journey on The Quite Peckish Podcast

Having Kate Manton on The Quite Peckish Podcast was an absolute privilege. Her story is one of resilience, adaptability, and a relentless drive to help others grow. What struck me most during our conversation was how she turned personal and professional setbacks into a springboard for something truly impactful.

Kate’s journey hasn’t been an easy one. Two years ago, she faced a double blow – losing her father and being made redundant from her senior leadership role. For many, these challenges might have been overwhelming, but Kate chose to pivot. She left behind the corporate world and followed her passion for coaching and mentoring. That decision, as she shared, wasn’t just about starting a business; it was about creating a life aligned with her values and purpose.

One of the standout moments in her story was how she travelled and lived in a number of countries as part of her global roles, and in particular her move to Japan to help open a new office. Imagine stepping into completely different cultures, leading large teams, and navigating all the nuances that come with it. Kate didn’t just adapt, she thrived. She talked about how those experiences shaped her understanding of leadership and the importance of cultural awareness in building high-performing teams and talent.

What I found particularly fascinating was Kate’s focus on self-leadership. She invested in herself, sought out mentors, and learned to navigate disruption with confidence. Her TEDx talk, “What’s Your Blind Spot?”, is a must-watch. It’s packed with practical strategies for uncovering unconscious biases and creating inclusive environments. Kate’s approach is all about listening, seeking diverse perspectives, and fostering connections that lead to better decisions.

During our chat, Kate shared a philosophy that really resonated with me: “Try everything.” Whether it’s a new dish or a bold life move, she believes in embracing the unknown. Even in tough times, she finds moments of humour and positivity, showing how resilience and adaptability can be powerful tools for growth. It’s a lesson we can all take to heart.

Kate’s story is a reminder that setbacks and disruptions are not the end. They’re often the beginning of something extraordinary. If you haven’t already, I highly recommend watching her TEDx talk and connecting with her on LinkedIn. Her insights are not just inspiring, they’re actionable. And if you’re looking for more stories like hers, make sure to follow The Quite Peckish Podcast. You won’t want to miss the incredible lessons from leaders like Kate.

Here is the podcast episode recorded with her:

You can watch her TEDx Talk here:”