Levelling Up: Why Diverse and Inclusive Teams Succeed

In an age where productivity is prized and burnout is common, what if the key to sustainable performance wasn’t found in doing more, but in understanding why we do anything at all? At Pendulum Summit New York, world-renowned thought leader Dr. Deepak Chopra challenged the audience to go beyond motivation and self-help hacks. His goal? “To help you solve the mystery of our existence, and why we are here.” That ambition set the tone for a keynote that was both scientific and spiritual, grounded in Chopra’s early training as a medical doctor and endocrinologist, and expanded by decades of exploring consciousness, energy, and human potential. The Biology of Emotion Chopra began with a simple but powerful truth: your emotions are chemistry. “Whenever you are experiencing any emotion, you make chemicals in the brain and they circulate in your body.” These chemicals, such as serotonin, dopamine, oxytocin, anandamide don’t just affect mood, they interact with every major system in the body, including the immune system. In other words, how you feel directly influences how you function. “Look at stomach cells, immune cells—any cell in the body—you’ll see receptors to these chemicals. You’ll even find them on immune cells that help us fight infection and cancer.” For leaders and high performers, this isn’t abstract theory. It’s a reminder that our internal state, our level of awareness, stress, and emotional balance is directly tied to our health, creativity, and leadership capacity. Beyond Motivation: The Inner Operating System “I’m not here to motivate you. Not even to inspire you. Just to share what’s been useful in my journey.” Unlike many keynotes aimed at short-term energy boosts, Chopra’s intention was deeper: to offer a new operating system for understanding life, work, and self. He spoke about neuroendocrinology (the study of how brain chemicals regulate emotion and behavior) and invited the audience to consider how much of our action is unconscious, reactive, and based on learned patterns. What if the first step in becoming a better leader wasn’t setting bigger goals but cultivating awareness? The Science of Self-Awareness Chopra’s work bridges ancient wisdom and modern neuroscience. He believes that self-awareness is the foundation of everything, from empathy to resilience to innovation. He referenced findings in brain chemistry and immune function, but his ultimate message was about conscious choice: “When we access awareness beyond thought, we begin to see that we are not our thoughts, not our emotions. We are the observers.” In a business context, this becomes profound: leaders who can observe without reacting, who respond instead of reflex, create space for clarity, creativity, and trust. Emotional Intelligence Starts in the Body What’s often called “emotional intelligence” in leadership circles begins in the body. The ability to regulate stress, remain calm under pressure, and foster connection is physiological before it’s behavioral. Understanding the chemical nature of emotion, as Chopra explains, gives us the power to intervene – not just mentally, but physically. Simple practices like breathwork, meditation, and mindfulness aren’t just trends, they’re tools to regulate our internal chemistry, making us more effective leaders, colleagues, and creators. Final Reflection: “If we can learn to witness ourselves—our thoughts, our emotions—we open the door to transformation.” At Pendulum Summit, Deepak Chopra delivered more than a keynote, he offered a reframing of what it means to live and lead well. In doing so, he connected the dots between science, consciousness, and business performance in a way only he can. His message to the Pendulum audience remains timeless: If you want to lead others, start by understanding yourself, not just psychologically, but biologically and spiritually too. It’s a defining moment, not just in his talk, but in his philosophy. Leadership is not a title. It’s an obligation to show up fully. And if that fire is gone? Step aside and let someone else carry the flame. This kind of self-awareness and humility is rare. But it’s exactly what separates leaders of position from leaders of purpose. Final Reflection: “We want to build something solid, strong, genuine, built on good values..with a real respect for what we were doing.” At Pendulum, Brian Cody didn’t deliver a performance. He delivered a philosophy – a blueprint for how to lead with integrity in any arena. His message wasn’t motivational for the sake of it. It was measured, methodical, and anchored in lived experience. In today’s fast-moving world, his brand of leadership may seem understated. But for those who understand the true weight of responsibility, it’s exactly the kind of clarity we need more of. Because legacies aren’t built in moments, they’re built in the standards we keep, the values we protect, and the people we lift along the way. Looking Ahead to Pendulum 2026 If this year’s event is anything to go by, Pendulum Summit 2026 is set to raise the bar yet again. The early buzz suggests another powerhouse line-up and even more tailored leadership content. Tickets are already in demand, with early-bird packages available now for teams looking to secure their place at the world’s leading business and self-empowerment summit. Visit here for more information.

At Pendulum Summit 2019, Brian Cody, legendary manager of the Kilkenny hurling team, offered a rare insight into the values and mindset that shaped one of the most extraordinary dynasties in sport. During his 21-year tenure, Cody led Kilkenny to 11 All-Ireland titles and 15 Leinster championships, not through slogans or gimmicks, but through unwavering clarity, discipline, and respect for the game, the jersey, and the people. Cody’s philosophy was not built in the boardroom. It was forged in the dressing room, in the training ground, and in the moments of honest reflection that every great leader must confront. Begin with Clarity “I think first of all, what’s hugely important is for me to ask myself: why? Why do I want to be the Kilkenny manager? Am I entitled to be the Kilkenny manager from day one? What was I hoping to achieve? What ambition did I have?” This wasn’t just a rhetorical question. For Cody, leadership started with self-interrogation. Before setting out to lead others, he had to know where he stood himself. It’s a powerful reminder for leaders at any level: don’t chase the title, own the responsibility. Without that clarity, leadership becomes performative. With it, it becomes a service. Raise the Standard, Relentlessly Reflecting on his early days in charge, Cody didn’t sugarcoat the truth. “I believed we were underachieving… I believed it was possible to get in there, set standards, and try and put fundamentals and structure in place.” His approach wasn’t revolutionary. It was foundational. He wasn’t there to reinvent the game, he was there to instill discipline, demand accountability, and make sure every player who pulled on the jersey knew exactly what it meant. This is a crucial lesson for any team leader: Before you aim for success, make yourself hard to beat. Build something robust, not reactive. Culture Before Strategy Cody’s teams were known for their grit, their humility, and their unshakable unity. That wasn’t an accident, it was by design. “We were representing something very, very outstanding… all the great players, all the great teams we had, and we were duty-bound to ensure that this was sustained.” In the corporate world, culture is often discussed in lofty language. But Cody brought it back to the ground: you honour what came before you by how you show up today. Legacy, in his world, wasn’t about reputation, it was about stewardship. When leaders create a culture based on purpose and pride, the team polices itself. Standards become shared. And high performance becomes habitual. Build from the Inside Out “I went in very, very clear in my head what I wanted to do,” Cody said. “And I’m still very, very clear in my head… we want to build something solid, strong, genuine, built on good values.” What makes this statement so compelling is its simplicity. Cody didn’t chase trends or overcomplicate things. He focused on what doesn’t change: effort, honesty, respect, teamwork. Business leaders often seek the next big idea, but Cody’s leadership proves that clarity of purpose beats novelty every time. When your values are non-negotiable, everything else falls into place. It’s Not About You One of the most understated themes of Cody’s talk was humility. He saw his role not as the centre of attention, but as the custodian of something much bigger. He spoke of building “a spirit within the whole hurling community in Kilkenny.” Everyone mattered. The goal wasn’t individual glory, it was collective pride. This kind of servant leadership is rare, but there is no doubt that it is powerful. In times of change or uncertainty, the most trusted leaders are those who stay grounded, focus on what’s real, and keep the spotlight on the team. When It’s Time to Step Aside At one point in his Pendulum keynote, Cody offered a strikingly honest reflection on the demands of leadership and when to let go: https://pendulumsummit.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Unleash-Your-Leadership_-Drive-With-Genuine-Ambition.mp4 It’s a defining moment, not just in his talk, but in his philosophy. Leadership is not a title. It’s an obligation to show up fully. And if that fire is gone? Step aside and let someone else carry the flame. This kind of self-awareness and humility is rare. But it’s exactly what separates leaders of position from leaders of purpose. Final Reflection: “We want to build something solid, strong, genuine, built on good values..with a real respect for what we were doing.” At Pendulum, Brian Cody didn’t deliver a performance. He delivered a philosophy – a blueprint for how to lead with integrity in any arena. His message wasn’t motivational for the sake of it. It was measured, methodical, and anchored in lived experience. In today’s fast-moving world, his brand of leadership may seem understated. But for those who understand the true weight of responsibility, it’s exactly the kind of clarity we need more of. Because legacies aren’t built in moments, they’re built in the standards we keep, the values we protect, and the people we lift along the way. Looking Ahead to Pendulum 2026 If this year’s event is anything to go by, Pendulum Summit 2026 is set to raise the bar yet again. The early buzz suggests another powerhouse line-up and even more tailored leadership content. Tickets are already in demand, with early-bird packages available now for teams looking to secure their place at the world’s leading business and self-empowerment summit. Visit here for more information.

In a world where volatility, complexity, and pressure define the business landscape, resilience is no longer a soft skill, it’s a strategic imperative. At Pendulum Summit 2024, clinical psychologist and bestselling author Dr. Julie Smith delivered a masterclass in emotional strength, exploring how leaders can cultivate resilience not just to endure, but to thrive. Best known for her widely acclaimed book Why Has Nobody Told Me This Before?, now translated into over 40 languages, Dr. Smith has carved out a global reputation for making psychological strategies accessible, evidence-based, and deeply human. Her message at Pendulum was clear: if leaders want to perform at a high level, they must treat their mental wellbeing with the same seriousness as their bottom line. Mental Fitness is Leadership Fitness “Too often we wait until crisis strikes before thinking about our mental health,” Dr. Smith said. “We don’t do that with physical fitness, we exercise to stay strong. Mental health deserves the same proactive care.” This perspective reframes resilience not as a reactive fix, but as a daily discipline. Just as leaders invest in strategic planning or performance metrics, Dr. Smith urges them to build emotional awareness and psychological tools into their routine. The Power of Micro-Habits Rather than prescribing radical overhauls, Dr. Smith focuses on what she calls “micro-interventions” – small, repeatable actions that rewire our emotional responses over time. Techniques like journaling negative thoughts, practicing daily gratitude, using breathwork to regulate stress, or even pausing to identify emotions with precision can create what she calls “psychological momentum.” “Every time you respond to stress with awareness rather than reaction, you’re building strength. These are small wins, but they compound.” Her practical, no-jargon approach offers leaders a roadmap for integrating wellbeing into high-performance environments without overcomplicating the process. Redefining Strength: Permission to Struggle Dr. Smith also challenged one of the most persistent myths in leadership: that strength means never showing weakness. “The reality is that struggle is not a flaw, it’s part of being human,” she said. “Denying it doesn’t make it disappear. It just pushes it underground, where it can become even more disruptive.” By normalising vulnerability, Dr. Smith advocates for a leadership model built on authenticity, transparency, and empathy. This isn’t about oversharing, but about fostering environments where people feel psychologically safe to be human. Supporting Others Starts with Supporting Ourselves In leadership, there’s often a focus on how to support teams through change. But Dr. Smith emphasized that leaders must first apply the same support to themselves. “If you’re running on empty, you won’t have the clarity, patience, or creativity to support others effectively.” This idea is especially relevant in the post-pandemic landscape, where burnout and disengagement remain widespread. Leaders who model self-regulation, emotional literacy, and balanced ambition create the conditions for healthier, more sustainable cultures. Why It Matters Now According to the World Health Organization, depression and anxiety cost the global economy over $1 trillion annually in lost productivity. More than ever, organisations are recognising that psychological resilience isn’t just a personal asset, it’s a competitive advantage. Dr. Julie Smith’s contribution to Pendulum Summit 2024 was not simply motivational, it was methodical. Her insights provide a framework for leaders to move beyond reaction, toward intentional emotional stewardship. In doing so, they unlock not just their own potential, but that of everyone around them. Closing Reflection: “Resilience isn’t about always bouncing back. It’s about knowing how to bend without breaking, and making space for recovery when you do.” — Dr. Julie Smith As businesses prepare to lead into another year of transformation and challenge, these words offer more than inspiration. They offer a blueprint for a healthier, more human approach to leadership, one rooted in awareness, empathy, and the courage to do the inner work. Looking Ahead to Pendulum 2026 If this year’s event is anything to go by, Pendulum Summit 2026 is set to raise the bar yet again. The early buzz suggests another powerhouse line-up and even more tailored leadership content. Tickets are already in demand, with early-bird packages available now for teams looking to secure their place at the world’s leading business and self-empowerment summit. Visit here for more information.

In a world of AI, automation and relentless digital transformation, it’s easy to believe that business success is all about data, speed and efficiency. But at Pendulum Summit, some of the world’s leading thinkers remind us that amidst all the noise, human connection remains the ultimate business strategy. Speakers like David Meade and Kingsley Aikins have shared powerful lessons about why people, relationships and influence sit at the heart of growth, resilience and innovation. The Science of Influence and Connection David Meade, behavioural scientist and international speaker, explores how small changes in how we connect with others can have a transformative impact on results. From the psychology of decision-making to the art of persuasion, David reveals that success often hinges not on big strategies but on small, human interactions: “Decisions are the oxygen of great teams, individuals and organisations. If we’re not making and taking them all the time, we’re already starting to slow down.” Whether it’s presenting options in just the right order to influence a ‘yes’, leading with bad news to build trust, or using the power of losses and dangers to drive action, David’s insights reveal that connection and influence are built moment by moment, conversation by conversation. Above all, he emphasises authenticity and empathy: “Ultimately, what matters is that when we leave this event, we don’t leave it for someone else, somewhere else, to do the important stuff. The only person who can do anything about your life or your career is you.” Networks Are More Than Contacts — They’re Life’s Orchestra Kingsley Aikins, founder of The Networking Institute and veteran of six countries’ worth of professional adventures, shares a different but equally powerful message. For Kingsley, human connection isn’t just useful — it’s critical to business and personal success. “The hidden cost of Covid is that our networks have shrunk. We’ve hunkered down with friends, family and just a few business connections. But actually, opportunity lies in the outer ring — the wide array of weak ties.” He explains that networking isn’t about flicking business cards across a bar. It’s a strategic, intentional process that any personality type can master — even introverts, who often excel because they network with integrity, authenticity and listening skills. Kingsley describes a great network as an orchestra: “Orchestras are made up of people brilliant at strings, percussion or wind instruments. When they all come together, it’s formidable. Your network is the same. Diversity is critical — if everybody played the same instrument, it’d be pretty grim.” He encourages leaders to audit their networks, ask if it’s fit for where they want to go, and actively cultivate new connections. The goal? Not just to get help, but to give help: “Networking is a two-way process. It’s reciprocal. You have to give as much as you get.” The Power of Perspective and Purpose Both speakers remind us that connection fuels resilience, innovation and progress. David’s story of building tens of thousands of prosthetic hands and water filters across the world — sparked entirely by accident — shows how human connection and a willingness to act can change lives. His lesson is clear: “As human beings, we live up to and down to our expectations of ourselves. If you convince yourself the odds are stacked against you, all that does is shrink your ambition and performance.” Kingsley likewise calls for leaders to be deliberate about creating the conditions for serendipity. To put themselves in places, conversations and communities where chance encounters spark new possibilities: “Serendipity doesn’t happen lying in bed. It happens when you’re out and about, when you put your talents on display, when you talk to strangers, when you attend events like this.” Why Human Connection is the Ultimate Strategy Pendulum Summit celebrates the human edge in business — the mindset, relationships and personal growth that drive true success. Whether it’s influencing decisions, building trusted relationships or opening yourself to unexpected opportunities, David Meade and Kingsley Aikins remind us that the ultimate business strategy is profoundly human. “Every major decision about your career, your promotion or your compensation will be taken by a group of people sitting around a table in a room — and you won’t be in that room.” — Kingsley Aikins That’s why the connections you make, the trust you build, and the reputation you cultivate remain your greatest strategic advantage. Looking Ahead to Pendulum 2026 If this year’s event is anything to go by, Pendulum Summit 2026 is set to raise the bar yet again. The early buzz suggests another powerhouse line-up and even more tailored leadership content. Tickets are already in demand, with early-bird packages available now for teams looking to secure their place at the world’s leading business and self-empowerment summit. Visit here for more information.

At twice the speed of sound, decisions aren’t a luxury — they’re survival. Few people understand high-stakes decision-making better than Mandy Hickson, one of the RAF’s first female fast-jet pilots. Mandy’s career took her from flying Tornado GR4 fighter jets in war zones to standing on global stages as a leadership speaker. Today, she shares lessons that resonate as powerfully in boardrooms as they did in the cockpit. At Pendulum Summit, Mandy brings these insights to life, helping leaders transform pressure into performance. Here’s what business professionals can learn from Mandy Hickson’s leadership lessons. Clarity Under Pressure Mandy describes flying a Tornado GR4 through valleys at nearly 700 miles an hour, flames pouring from the engines, and knowing that one wrong move could spell disaster. Yet even in these moments, she returns to basics: “You can’t control the chaos, but you can control your response.” Leaders, too, must filter signal from noise. In business, it’s easy to be paralysed by data overload or fast-changing circumstances. Mandy’s experience reminds us that great decision-making often comes down to focus: knowing what matters most and trusting yourself to act.   Trust in Your Team Mandy shares vivid stories of how teamwork saved her career. After failing tactical formation flying, her RAF colleagues spent hours in a hangar, cycling in formation on bicycles to help her master complex manoeuvres. “Trusting your teammates is implicit. It’s what will keep us safe in the air.” Business leaders must foster the same trust. True high-performance teams don’t just work together — they sacrifice for each other, share knowledge freely, and help colleagues rise. As Mandy puts it, trust is built on credibility, reliability, and selflessness.   Preparation Turns Fear Into Confidence Whether dogfighting or refuelling mid-air at night, Mandy’s stories highlight one truth: excellence under pressure starts long before the crisis hits. “I’d rather sweat in training than bleed in combat.” In business, this translates to: Scenario planning Rehearsing crisis responses Building mental resilience before challenges appear Mandy’s meticulous training helped her navigate moments like a missile locking onto her aircraft over Iraq — and survive to tell the tale.   Calm Authority in High Stakes Even when facing missiles, Mandy maintained composure. In her words, “one wrong move and it could all go disastrously wrong” — but panic helps no one. Her cool authority in stressful situations inspires confidence. Business leaders, too, are judged on how they carry themselves during crises. Calm authority: Reassures teams Keeps communication clear Anchors decision-making under pressure Mandy proves that courage isn’t the absence of fear — it’s taking action despite it.   Debrief and Learn Every mission in the RAF ends with a debrief — a practice Mandy calls non-negotiable. Pilots analyse what went well, what didn’t, and how to improve, without blame or ego. “Debriefs aren’t about punishment. They’re about being better next time.” Businesses often rush past the debrief. Yet the most successful teams pause to: Reflect on outcomes Understand why mistakes happened Build stronger processes for next time Mandy’s commitment to debriefing even after a 19-hour mission underscores that learning never stops.   Overcoming Bias and Barriers Mandy’s path wasn’t easy. When she first applied to become a fast-jet pilot, she failed every test — twice. Initially offered a role as an air traffic controller, she refused to accept the limits placed on her: “I thought, they’re taking me on for who I am. Maybe it’s up to me to prove the system is flawed.” Her persistence changed RAF testing protocols, proving that sometimes the system — not the individual — needs fixing. For businesses striving for diversity and inclusion, Mandy’s journey is a powerful reminder that talent can thrive if given the chance.   Humour and Humanity Despite her military precision, Mandy is disarmingly funny. She shares stories of being nicknamed Big Bird instead of the glamorous call signs she’d imagined, and the time her son worried about “speed police” in the sky. Even in war zones, she recalls moments of levity: RAF pilots constructing cardboard cockpits to practise manoeuvres A French navigator praising her appearance, only to be told she’s “one of the boys” This humour is part of her leadership style — connecting with people, breaking tension, and building authentic relationships.   Lessons for Business Leaders Mandy Hickson’s leadership lessons remind us that: Pressure reveals character Trust transforms teams Preparation builds confidence Debriefing drives improvement Authenticity and humour are leadership superpowers Whether navigating missiles or market crises, the principles are the same: stay focused, trust your people, and never stop learning. At Pendulum Summit, Mandy shares these stories and lessons firsthand, showing how elite military thinking can transform leadership in any field. “You’ll never know what you can achieve unless you try.” Looking Ahead to Pendulum 2026   If this year’s event is anything to go by, Pendulum Summit 2026 is set to raise the bar yet again. The early buzz suggests another powerhouse line-up and even more tailored leadership content. Tickets are already in demand, with early-bird packages available now for teams looking to secure their place at the world’s leading business and self-empowerment summit. Visit here for more information.

Christian Horner’s departure from Red Bull Racing has sent shockwaves through the Formula 1 world. After nearly two decades as Team Principal — and a record-breaking run of Constructors’ and Drivers’ Championships — Horner has officially been sacked from the team he helped transform into a global powerhouse. While headlines swirl about internal tensions and off-track controversies, there’s another side to Horner’s story that deserves attention: the leadership lessons he shared on stage at Pendulum Summit. Because before he was a headline, Horner was a young leader facing an enormous challenge — and his journey offers insights for any business facing chaos, change, or crisis. Stepping into Chaos   When Horner first arrived at Red Bull Racing in 2005, he wasn’t greeted with champagne or celebrations. Instead, he found a team in disarray: “There’d been a revolving door of management… people were afraid to stick their head over the parapet. They weren’t working as a team — just blaming each other.” Half-drunk coffee sat on desks. Christmas cards lay half-open. A secretary was in tears. “The drawing office blamed manufacturing. Manufacturing blamed the aerodynamic department. The aerodynamic department blamed the wind tunnel. And the race team blamed everybody.” Horner was just 31. Many in the team looked at him and thought: “This kid won’t last long.” But he did far more than last. He changed everything.   Earning Trust as a Young Leader   In Horner’s words at Pendulum Summit, the first step was simple yet powerful: understand what you’ve inherited. Instead of imposing immediate changes, he: ✅ Listened carefully✅ Studied the culture and the reasons behind dysfunction✅ Identified who felt marginalised or afraid to speak up He knew trust wasn’t automatic — especially for someone young and new. He focused on building relationships, not just issuing directives.   Breaking Down Silos   One of Horner’s biggest observations from his early days: “People weren’t working as a team — they were just blaming each other.” This wasn’t unique to motorsport. Any business can fall into silo mentality. Horner set out to: Create open communication across departments Break the cycle of blame Align everyone around shared goals rather than individual interests At Pendulum Summit, his message was clear: Championships are not won by departments. They’re won by unified teams.   Culture Before Championships   Horner didn’t turn Red Bull into a dynasty overnight. It took years of cultural transformation — shifting from fear and blame to psychological safety and shared purpose. The results speak for themselves: Multiple Constructors’ Championships Drivers’ titles for Sebastian Vettel and Max Verstappen A reputation for relentless innovation and resilience But Horner’s Pendulum Summit insights reveal the truth: behind every trophy lies a cultural journey.   Facing the Leadership Paradox   Now, with Christian Horner officially sacked, a bigger leadership question emerges: Is principled leadership sometimes costly — or is it the only path to lasting success? Over the past 18 months, Horner has faced: Intense public scrutiny Reports of internal power struggles after Red Bull founder Dietrich Mateschitz’s death Investigations into alleged inappropriate behaviour (which he has denied and was reportedly cleared) Constant pressure to maintain Red Bull’s performance amid shifting politics These events remind us that even the strongest leaders are vulnerable to forces beyond their control. Yet Horner’s story — shared candidly at Pendulum Summit — underscores that true leadership often means stepping into dysfunction and having the courage to transform it.   Leadership Takeaways   From Christian Horner’s journey, leaders everywhere can draw powerful lessons: ✅ Diagnose culture before chasing results✅ Earn trust through listening, not titlesBreak down silos to unleash true team performance✅ Create psychological safety so people feel safe to contribute✅ Recognise that principled leadership sometimes comes at personal cost   A Final Thought   Christian Horner’s tenure at Red Bull Racing may have come to an unexpected end. But the leadership lessons he shared on the Pendulum Summit stage remain timeless. In his own words: “People weren’t working as a team — they were just blaming each other.” Thanks to Horner’s leadership, those same people became world champions. At Pendulum Summit, we believe great leadership isn’t just about celebrating success — it’s about transforming chaos into opportunity. Looking Ahead to Pendulum 2026   If this year’s event is anything to go by, Pendulum Summit 2026 is set to raise the bar yet again. The early buzz suggests another powerhouse line-up and even more tailored leadership content. Tickets are already in demand, with early-bird packages available now for teams looking to secure their place at the world’s leading business and self-empowerment summit. Visit here for more information.