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Mastering the Padel Rating Game: Curiosity, Self-Awareness, and Joy in Play (JOPS04E17)

Mastering the Padel Rating Game: Curiosity, Self-Awareness, and Joy in Play (JOPS04E17)

by | Sep 9, 2026 | , ,

This episode of the Joy of Padel takes a solo turn as Minter dives deep into the elusive topic of padel ratings and self-assessment. The conversation focused on why knowing your true level is a gift, not a judgment, and how it impacts everything from match enjoyment to partnership dynamics. A key theme that emerged was the importance of curiosity, self-awareness, and communication for improvement on and off the court.
Key points:
1. Ratings are signposts, not identities—focus on growth, not numbers.
2. Honest self-assessment and purposeful practice lead to more joyful, rewarding padel experiences.

Story Alchemy and Authentic Voice: Elizabeth Brett on Embracing Presence and Inner Sovereignty (MDE670)

Story Alchemy and Authentic Voice: Elizabeth Brett on Embracing Presence and Inner Sovereignty (MDE670)

by | Sep 6, 2026 | , ,

The conversation with Elizabeth Brett focused on the art of authentic storytelling and the power of presence in leadership. One concept discussed was the importance of connecting inner beliefs with outward expression for true authenticity. A key theme that emerged was the ability to access emotional depth, allowing stories to move and inspire others. The discussion explored how leaders can remain present, avoid performance traps, and share stories that align with their current identity. Several points were raised, including the value of setting boundaries, maintaining sovereignty over personal narratives, and embracing the cyclical nature of personal evolution.

Serious Fun and Instincts and the Human Algorithm in Business with Mike Anderson (MDE669)

Serious Fun and Instincts and the Human Algorithm in Business with Mike Anderson (MDE669)

by | Aug 30, 2026 | , , ,

The conversation focused on finding balance between instinct and data in business leadership, exploring how personal experiences shape professional growth. One concept discussed was the importance of maintaining a sense of humour and connection, even in high-pressure environments. A key theme that emerged was the value of reflection and authenticity, especially when navigating change or adversity. The discussion explored practical approaches to leadership, including storytelling, fostering open conversations, and never losing sight of one’s personal “human algorithm.” Several points were raised, including strategies for resilience, gratitude, and staying true to oneself amidst business turbulence.

From Málaga to the World Champion: Carolina Navarro Björk and the Passion for Padel (JOPS04E16)

From Málaga to the World Champion: Carolina Navarro Björk and the Passion for Padel (JOPS04E16)

by | Aug 26, 2026 | , ,

Carolina Navarro, a former professional padel player and an international icon, shares her journey from her beginnings in Málaga to becoming world number one. In her interview with me, she discusses the importance of stepping out of one’s comfort zone, the evolution of padel, the process of selecting partners, and her work on inclusive projects like *Palas Para Todos*. She also offers valuable advice for enthusiasts: enjoying the game on the court, competing at one’s best, and the importance of warming up before playing. It is an inspiring story of overcoming challenges, passion, and community within the world of padel.

Navigating Agency Culture: Peter Finn’s Insights on Values, Growth, and Difficult Choices (MDE668)

Navigating Agency Culture: Peter Finn’s Insights on Values, Growth, and Difficult Choices (MDE668)

by | Aug 16, 2026 | , , , , , ,

The conversation focused on building organisations guided by values, exploring how empathy, collaboration, and respect can coexist with ambitious growth. One concept discussed was the importance of matching company culture with client and acquisition partners, ensuring long-term alignment. A key theme that emerged was making a meaningful difference, both in business and through initiatives like the Catskill Mountain Foundation, which revitalised a community through the arts. The discussion explored practical challenges in leadership, including when to prioritise honesty over likeability, and how to measure personal and organisational impact beyond financial success.

Vanity Awards in the Age of AI: When Recognition Becomes Pay‑to‑Play

Vanity Awards in the Age of AI: When Recognition Becomes Pay‑to‑Play

by | Aug 13, 2026 | ,

Beware the growing vanity economy targeting creators, podcasters and authors. From “exclusive” global leadership conclaves to industry awards and retroactive book prizes, these solicitations package generic flattery as recognition—then reveal the fee, promotional upsell or paid-entry funnel. With AI making polished, personalised outreach cheap to produce at scale, distinguishing genuine merit from purchased prestige is becoming harder. Here’s how three seemingly flattering invitations exposed a common pattern—and why we all need to sharpen our scamdar.

Adapting to Padel: Giulia Dal Pozzo’s Transformation From Tennis To Top Padel Player (JOPS04E15)

Adapting to Padel: Giulia Dal Pozzo’s Transformation From Tennis To Top Padel Player (JOPS04E15)

by | Aug 12, 2026 | , ,

This episode of the Joy of Padel welcomes Giulia Dal Pozzo, a top-ranked Italian left-hander, who shares her inspiring journey from competitive tennis to professional padel. The conversation focused on the challenges of switching sports, mastering the use of walls, and the importance of communication with partners. Giulia discusses Italy’s growing padel scene, the evolution of women’s padel, and what it takes to thrive at the highest level.

Key points:

Transitioning from tennis to padel requires adapting both mindset and technique, especially with the use of walls.

Strong partnership and constant on-court communication are vital for performance and enjoyment.

Loving Assertiveness in Action: Omar Khan on Meaningful Conversations in Business and Beyond (MDE667)

Loving Assertiveness in Action: Omar Khan on Meaningful Conversations in Business and Beyond (MDE667)

by | Aug 9, 2026 | , ,

This conversation with Omar Khan focused on the importance of building bridges rather than barriers, drawing on personal stories of global experience and educational transitions. A key theme that emerged was the power of “loving assertiveness”—a balance between compassion and strength—in both personal and professional settings. The discussion explored how meaningful conversations and genuine empathy are crucial for leadership, team success, and even organisational transformation. Several points were raised, including the value of synthesising diverse educational backgrounds, the necessity for authentic dialogue in strategic decision-making, and the role of vulnerability and curiosity in effective coaching and conflict resolution.

Business, Belonging, and Being Human – A World in Motion and Making Sense of Modern Disruption

Business, Belonging, and Being Human – A World in Motion and Making Sense of Modern Disruption

by | Aug 4, 2026 | , , , , ,

The first quarter of the 21st century has not been a story of gradual change, but of repeated shocks: the Internet, smartphones, financial crises, climate disruption, COVID, social media, and now AI. This article argues that these upheavals fall into three overlapping categories — business and commerce, personal and societal, and existential — and explores how each has reshaped our world, our work, and our sense of self. The real challenge is not just adapting to disruption, but learning how to remain human through it.

To Book Minter!

I’m Minter Dial and I serve my clients by elevating the debate and energy, telling powerful stories and connecting people and ideas. My mission to insert more meaningfulness into our lives and at work. I relish being an engaging professional speaker on leadership, transformation and branding. I’m known for being someone who walks the talk and delivers on or above expectations. I’m the author of four award-winning books, including the second edition of my award-winning book, Heartificial Empathy (April 2023, available in English and French), You Lead published by Kogan Page that won the Business Book Award 2022, and Futureproof (FT-Press/Pearson) that won the Business Book Award 2018. I’m also the producer of the award-winning WWII book and documentary film The Last Ring Home.

My last major published project was Dialogos, Fostering More Meaningful Conversations that was published weekly via Substack, over 79 weeks. I am currently working on a new book, The Avatar Trap.  

Click here to inquire about booking Minter!

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