In this episode of the Connected Leadership Podcast, Andy welcomes Amy Rowlinson, Shining a light on what is possible when you focus on ‘why’, Amy Rowlinson empowers people to forge their own path to create a purposeful, sustainable and fulfilling way of life. As a life purpose coach, podcast strategist and podcaster, Amy’s mission is to gift a living Legacy of inspiration, insight and knowledge. On her podcast, Focus on WHY, Amy provides uplifting and relatable conversations designed to inspire listeners to take purposeful action.

Andy and Amy discuss Amy’s recent project—a book co-authored with her late grandfather, George Kerr. This unique collaboration was born out of imagined conversations; using George’s letters; war diaries,and even an interview Amy conducted with him at age 15.

Amy reflects on how imposter syndrome initially held her back from writing the book, until she learnt to embrace vulnerability and authenticity. This shift allowed her to overcome self-doubt and recognise the importance of sharing her story. The book is not just a memoir but a guide on creating a purposeful way of life. It combines George’s Wisdom with Amy’s reflections on modern challenges like Burnout and finding meaning in work. Amy emphasises the need for sustainable fulfilment and stresses connecting everyday tasks to a broader purpose, bringing emotional significance to all aspects of life.

Both Andy and Amy highlight the value of diverse Relationships. She credits mentors, coaches, and peers for helping her navigate vulnerabilities and unlock her potential. No single person fulfils every role; instead, a network of supporters aids her journey. For instance, her husband

provides perspective, while professional mentors offer expertise. This collaborative approach aligns with her belief in connectedness—a core value driving her work.

Amy’s story underscores the power of intergenerational connections and the courage required to share one’s truth authentically.

What we discussed:

1. Embracing Vulnerability: Overcoming imposter syndrome requires embracing vulnerability and authenticity. By acknowledginglimitations, individuals open themselves up to Growth and support.

2. Purpose-Driven Living: Creating a fulfilling life involves aligning daily actions with future goals. Connecting tasks to a larger purpose enhances emotional significance.

3. Collaborative Growth: Building a diverse support system—including mentors, coaches, and peers—enables holistic development. No single person can fulfill all needs; multiple perspectives are essential.

4. Intergenerational Connections: Leveraging stories and lessons from previous generations fosters deeper understanding and resilience. Amy’s collaboration with her grandfather exemplifies this idea.

5. Authentic Leadership: Authenticity builds trust and invites meaningful relationships. Dropping the “mask” allows others to provide genuine support, unlocking hidden potential.

SELECTED LINKS FROM THE EPISODE

Connect with Andy Lopata: Website | Instagram | LinkedIn | X/Twitter | YouTube

Connect with Amy Rowlinson: Website |LinkedIn |X | YouTube

The Financial Times Guide to Mentoring

Focus on Why: Create a purposeful way of life,

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Andy Lopata Author, Podcast Host and Speaker on Professional Relationships Strategy

Andy Lopata is a specialist speaker on professional relationships, mentoring, networking, and social media strategy. He is a firm believer that professional relationships underpin our success in business, our roles, and our careers. The right relationships with the right people can lead to new business opportunities, investment, collaborative working, innovation, and career progress. We just need to be comfortable approaching those relationships strategically, without making people feel ‘networked’ by us.

Andy has worked in the field of networking and professional relationships for 25 years, working with global giants such as Paypal, GSK, AstraZeneca, Wella, HSBC, Wembley Stadium, the BBC, and the Prime Minister’s Office of the UAE, among many others during that time. He has also worked with leading universities including NYU, Duke University, and Oxford University’s Said Business School.

A regular blogger for Psychology Today, Andy has been quoted in The Sunday Times, The Financial Times, and The Guardian, as well as many other national and regional newspapers and magazines worldwide. He has written or co-authored six books on networking and professional relationships, with his sixth book, "The Financial Times Guide to Mentoring," being published in Spring 2024. He is also the host of The Connected Leadership Podcast and has interviewed globally recognized names in business, academia, sports, and entertainment for the show.

Andy has been inducted into the PSAE Hall of Fame – the Professional Speaking Association Award of Excellence, which was held by only 21 other speakers at the time it was presented. He is a Fellow and a former President of the Fellows’ Community of the Professional Speaking Association (PSA), a Fellow of the Learning and Performance Institute (LPI), and a Member of the Association of Business Mentors and the Meetings Industry Association.