Conquer Your Mountains

How do you build high-performance teams to support a vision? In today’s episode, Amanda and Mandla discuss how the pace of innovation and the rapid emergence of new technologies, like artificial intelligence, have made it crucial to have high-performing teams in today’s complex world.
 
Mandla defines a high-performing team as one that achieves its desired results, fully understands the leader’s vision, and is results-oriented. Such teams have a culture of achievement and possess diverse, complementary skills. In contrast, low-performing teams miss deadlines, consume more resources than planned, and experience internal conflicts, making it difficult to implement innovation.
 
To create a high-performing team, Mandla emphasizes that it starts with the leader. A leader must introspect, identify barriers to their own performance, and act as a visionary and coach. This involves seeing beyond the horizon, sharing that vision with the team, and being a catalyst for change.
 
Mandla prefers a visionary and coaching leadership style, which involves communicating the vision clearly and helping team members understand how to achieve it. He also stresses the importance of emotional intelligence in team dynamics, likening it to the chemistry that allows a flock of birds to move in unison.
 
While team-building activities can sometimes feel artificial, Mandla believes that genuine team chemistry and understanding are crucial for high performance. He concludes with an encouragement from his book “Conquer Your Mountains,” reminding leaders to seek help and strength beyond their own efforts.
 
Amanda and Mandla wrap up the episode by reinforcing the need for leaders to be agile, visionary, and supportive to build and maintain high-performing teams.
 
Click here to access the podcast in a platform of your choice, such as Spotify and Apple Podcasts https://tr.ee/Kz8U7B2wiq  
 
Amanda de Witt is the Senior Editor at the Luca Faith and Inspiration Imprint of Penguin Random House South Africa and Mandla Moyo is the author of an inspirational book called Conquer Your Mountains as well as a science fiction book called The Fallen Angel.

Are you equipped for the challenges of leading through crisis and uncertainty in the business world. In today’s episode, Amanda and Mandla discuss that while life has always been complicated, it has now become more complex due to the increasing number of variables and rapid changes in business. Mandla uses the metaphor from the book “Who Moved My Cheese?” to illustrate how people and businesses must adapt to change.
 
Mandla compares leading through a crisis to steering a ship through a severe storm, where leaders must navigate many uncertain scenarios with limited resources. He emphasizes the importance of quick decision-making and effective communication to avoid the paralysis that can occur in poorly managed crises.
 
To make informed decisions during a crisis, Mandla suggests generating multiple options and scenarios, assessing their risks and benefits, and being ready to pivot if necessary. He highlights three key techniques for managing uncertainty: collaboration and project management, data analysis and financial modelling, and risk measurement.
 
Finally, Mandla shares an excerpt from his book “Conquer Your Mountains,” encouraging leaders to take time for self-repair and address the emotional scars that can accumulate during crises.
 
Amanda and Mandla close the episode by reminding listeners of the importance of agility and flexibility in leadership, and the value of being prepared to adapt to new challenges.
 
Click here to access the podcast in a platform of your choice, such as Spotify and Apple Podcasts https://tr.ee/Kz8U7B2wiq  
 
Amanda de Witt is the Senior Editor at the Luca Faith and Inspiration Imprint of Penguin Random House South Africa and Mandla Moyo is the author of an inspirational book called Conquer Your Mountains as well as a science fiction book called The Fallen Angel.

Are you ready to embark on a journey through the toughest waves of business, where only the bravest dare to captain their ship? 
 
This podcast episode is a beacon of hope, illuminating the tales of businesses that navigated through the darkest economic squalls and emerged not just unscathed, but fortified. Mandla and Amanda celebrate the indomitable spirit of those who transform adversity into a crucible for strength, innovation, and success. Tune in and be inspired by the stories of resilience that redefine the essence of business endurance.
 
Steering a business through the murky waters of economic uncertainty is not easy. Mandla, a business leader, sheds light on what ‘economic darkness’ really means for a company. He explains that financial struggles are often just the tip of the iceberg, signalling deeper underlying issues related to product, people, or promotion that can lead to a company’s downturn.
 
Amanda probes further, asking how leaders can ‘clean their lenses’ to gain a clearer perspective during such times. Mandla draws a compelling analogy to visiting an optician, emphasizing the importance of examining the finer details that are often overlooked, but crucial for clarity and direction. He suggests that external advisors or analytical tools can act as the optician for a business, helping leaders to focus on the ‘fine print’ of their operations.
 
The conversation also highlights inspiring examples of companies like Netflix and Lego, which not only weathered tough economic storms but emerged stronger by adapting and innovating in the face of adversity. Discover how you can transform challenges into opportunities, and apply these lessons to navigate through your own circumstances.
 
Click here to access the podcast in a platform of your choice, such as Spotify and Apple Podcasts https://tr.ee/Kz8U7B2wiq  
 
Amanda de Witt is the Senior Editor at the Luca Faith and Inspiration Imprint of Penguin Random House South Africa and Mandla Moyo is the author of an inspirational book called Conquer Your Mountains as well as a science fiction book called The Fallen Angel.

Picture this: A company not just enduring the blazing trials of adversity but emerging from them with unparalleled resilience. Like a majestic phoenix reborn from the ashes or a piece of steel forged in unyielding flames, such businesses glow with the brightness of newfound strength. In this podcast episode, Mandla and Amanda explore the remarkable renewal of enterprises that harness the heat of their challenges to spark reinvention and ascend to new heights of success.
 
In, “Refined by Fire,” Mandla and Amanda explore the transformative power of adversity on businesses. Mandla draws a vivid parallel between the intense heat required to refine precious metals and the fiery trials that forge stronger, more resilient companies. He discusses how certain innovations can only be catalyzed by external pressures, such as economic recessions, technological shifts, and changes in consumer demands.
 
The conversation takes a deep dive into the types of ‘fires’ that businesses face, from the digital revolution that phased out film cameras to the green energy transition reshaping the energy sector. Mandla emphasizes that while no business chooses to undergo refinement, in hindsight they are often grateful for the opportunity.
 
Highlighting a powerful case study, Mandla recounts the story of Apple’s remarkable turnaround. From the brink of bankruptcy in the 90s due to product failures like the Newton and Macintosh LC, Apple emerged with a clear identity and direction, revolutionizing the tech industry with the launch of the iMac, iPod, and iPhone, and changing consumer behavior forever.
 
Click here to access the podcast in a platform of your choice, such as Spotify and Apple Podcasts https://tr.ee/Kz8U7B2wiq  
 
Amanda de Witt is the Senior Editor at the Luca Faith and Inspiration Imprint of Penguin Random House South Africa and Mandla Moyo is the author of an inspirational book called Conquer Your Mountains as well as a science fiction book called The Fallen Angel.

In this episode, Mandla Moyo, author of "Conquer Your Mountains," delves into the powerful concept of integrating social impact into business. Inspired by a book passage on living with impact, Mandla shares stories and insights from his work in the healthcare industry, highlighting the tangible benefits of making a positive difference in people's lives.
 
Through an engaging conversation, Mandla and Amanda De Witt explore the balance between business success and social responsibility. They discuss practical steps businesses can take to multiply their impact, the importance of a clear vision, and the role of stakeholders in achieving sustainable results.
 
Listeners will gain valuable advice on measuring social impact, understanding the "why" behind business initiatives, and the evolving perspective on creating meaningful change. Join us for an inspiring discussion on how businesses can contribute to a better society, while also thriving economically.
 
Interviewed by Amanda De Witt, Senior Editor at LUCA, the Faith and Inspiration imprint of Penguin Random House South Africa, and featuring Dr Mandla Moyo, this episode is a must-listen for leaders and entrepreneurs aiming to make a lasting social impact.
 
Click here to access the podcast in a platform of your choice, such as Spotify and Apple Podcasts https://tr.ee/Kz8U7B2wiq  
 
Amanda de Witt is the Senior Editor at the Luca Faith and Inspiration Imprint of Penguin Random House South Africa and Mandla Moyo is the author of an inspirational book called Conquer Your Mountains as well as a science fiction book called The Fallen Angel.
 

In this episode, Amanda De Witt requests Dr Mandla Moyo, the author of "Conquer Your Mountains," to delve into the crucial role of self-belief in achieving success. Mandla shares insights from his book, discussing how self-doubt can be a significant barrier, and offering strategies for leaders to overcome it.
 
Through the lens of Vincent van Gogh's life, they explore how persistence and a small fraction of self-belief can make a difference, even if the fruits of one's labor are not immediately recognized. Mandla emphasizes the importance of preparation, community support, and adapting to challenges to maintain self-belief and achieve one's goals.
 
Join Amanda and Mandla for an inspiring conversation that offers practical advice for leaders and anyone striving to conquer their own mountains.
 
Click here to access the podcast in a platform of your choice, such as Spotify and Apple Podcasts https://tr.ee/Kz8U7B2wiq  
 
Amanda de Witt is the Senior Editor at the Luca Faith and Inspiration Imprint of Penguin Random House South Africa and Mandla Moyo is the author of an inspirational book called Conquer Your Mountains as well as a science fiction book called The Fallen Angel.
 

We delve into the crucial concept of aligning the mind and body, focusing on how leaders can turn plans into reality by maintaining balance. Mandla and Amanda discuss the importance of stress management, emotional intelligence, and physical health for effective leadership.
 
In this podcast episode, we explore practical techniques for improving mental clarity and focus, such as exercise, mindfulness, and reading. The conversation highlights the significant impact of physical health on motivation and productivity, emphasizing the need for a healthy lifestyle.
 
The episode also addresses the role of emotional balance in achieving long-term goals and provides insights on creating a daily routine that supports both mental and physical well-being. Mandla shares strategies to motivate individuals to overcome common obstacles in aligning mind and body.
 
Finally, we touch on themes from Dr. Mandla Moyo’s book, "Conquer Your Mountains," offering inspiration and practical advice for thriving in both personal and professional realms.
 
Click here to access the podcast in a platform of your choice, such as Spotify and Apple Podcasts https://tr.ee/Kz8U7B2wiq  
 
 
Amanda de Witt is the Senior Editor at the Luca Faith and Inspiration Imprint of Penguin Random House South Africa and Mandla Moyo is the author of an inspirational book called Conquer Your Mountains as well as a science fiction book called The Fallen Angel.
 

Mandla and Amanda discuss how leaders can improve business efficiency by shedding unnecessary baggage, a concept drawn from Dr. Mandla Moyo's book, *Conquer Your Mountains*. Mandla likens this process to removing barnacles from a whale, emphasizing the importance of regularly eliminating burdens that hinder progress.
 
The discussion covers common types of baggage that leaders carry, such as unresolved emotional issues, fear of failure, and micromanagement tendencies, all of which can stifle decision-making and team growth. Mandla advises leaders to first address their internal baggage, using strategies like eliminating negative self-talk and staying agile, to create a more efficient and empowered work environment.
 
The episode also highlights how businesses can streamline operations by updating outdated systems and removing redundant policies. The role of technology and data analytics in identifying inefficiencies and improving processes is underscored, alongside the need to balance streamlining efforts with maintaining quality and customer satisfaction.
 
By shedding excess baggage and focusing on what truly matters, leaders can drive better outcomes for both their teams and their businesses.
 
 
Click here to access the podcast in a platform of your choice, such as Spotify and Apple Podcasts https://tr.ee/Kz8U7B2wiq  
 
 
Amanda de Witt is the Senior Editor at the Luca Faith and Inspiration Imprint of Penguin Random House South Africa and Mandla Moyo is the author of an inspirational book called Conquer Your Mountains as well as a science fiction book called The Fallen Angel.
 
 

In this episode of our podcast, we delve into the concept of Corporate Kindness with Dr. Mandla Moyo, author of Conquer Your Mountains.
 
 
Interviewed by Amanda De Witt, senior editor at the LUCA Faith and Inspiration Imprint of Penguin Random House SA, Dr. Moyo shares his personal journey from receiving kindness during tough times to integrating generosity into his business model.
 
 
We explore how businesses can balance profitability with a commitment to generosity, the impact of non-monetary support in startups, and the various forms of capital that can be leveraged to practice generosity.
 
 
Dr. Moyo also discusses overcoming scarcity mindsets and the crucial role of leadership in fostering a culture of kindness within organizations. Join us for an inspiring conversation on how generosity can lead to thriving communities and businesses.
 
 
Click here to access the podcast in a platform of your choice, such as Spotify and Apple Podcasts https://tr.ee/Kz8U7B2wiq  
 
NEW RELEASE! Click here to access a free leadership resource that you can download, titled
Unlock the 10 Key Questions of Ethical Leadership
https://learn.conquermountains.com/products/digital_downloads/ethical-leadership-free-download
 
 
Amanda de Witt is the Senior Editor at the Luca Faith and Inspiration Imprint of Penguin Random House South Africa and Mandla Moyo is the author of an inspirational book called Conquer Your Mountains as well as a science fiction book called The Fallen Angel.
 
 
 
 
 

In this episode, Amanda de Witt sits down with Dr. Mandla Moyo, author of Conquer Your Mountains, to explore how leaders can find strength and guidance during challenging times. Dr. Moyo shares insights on why we often seek deeper guidance during crises and how to stay connected to our core values and faith. He recounts personal experiences of navigating business storms, particularly financial challenges during the pandemic, and discusses his favourite ways to connect with God during tough times.
 
 
Listeners will gain valuable advice on balancing action, meditation and reflection during turbulent periods, and also discover alternative sources of guidance whether or not they are religious. Dr. Moyo also answers a question about whether spirituality has a role in the workplace. The episode ends with a reflection of the importance of enterprise risk management in preparing for potential business storms.
 
 
Join us for an enlightening conversation that offers practical strategies and profound reflections on leading through life’s inevitable storms.
 
 
Click here to access the podcast in a platform of your choice, such as Spotify and Apple Podcasts https://tr.ee/Kz8U7B2wiq  
 
 
Click here to access a free leadership resource that you can download, titled
Unlock the 10 Key Questions of Ethical Leadership
https://learn.conquermountains.com/products/digital_downloads/ethical-leadership-free-download
 
 
Amanda de Witt is the Senior Editor at the Luca Faith and Inspiration Imprint of Penguin Random House South Africa and Mandla Moyo is the author of an inspirational book called Conquer Your Mountains as well as a science fiction book called The Fallen Angel.