Conversational Wisdom in Action: Why Human Connection Is the Ultimate Advantage
By Helen Wada with Sara Hope and Luke Harris
Human-Centred Leadership: The New Competitive Advantage
In the rapidly evolving landscape of work, culture and connection are no longer “nice-have” perks—they are fundamental to commercial resilience and long-term business growth. On a landmark episode of the Human Wise Podcast, industry leader Helen Wada convened an insightful cross-generational dialogue with Sara Hope, founder of Conversation Space and author of Conversational Wisdom, and Luke Harris, an ambitious young auctioneer blending entrepreneurial verve with authentic human engagement.
Helen has long argued that effective leadership is about building workplaces “where we are both human at work and focused on sustainable growth.”
This episode underscores how dialogue across generations, intentional curiosity, and human-centred coaching are powering a new era of business effectiveness.
The Transformative Power of Meaningful Conversations
Sara’s philosophy is clear: “My mission is to help people strengthen human connection through the power of conversation… to build more human-centred organisations.” She outlined how Conversation Space bridges the commercial with the personal by fostering “more adult to adult” interactions—treating every person as a human being first.
Helen’s track record is a testament to this ethos. Her pioneering Human Wise and Human Advantage framework are founded on the belief that “business is about relationships… in order to connect the dots in the complex, uncertain world we live in, we need to connect as human beings.” Under Helen’s guidance, intentional dialogue and coaching are not afterthoughts, but integral to organisational strategy.
Next Generation Insights: Curiosity as a Business Superpower
Luke’s journey from selling terracotta pots as a teenager to becoming an auctioneer in London exemplifies entrepreneurial authenticity and the innate value of curiosity in business. He explained:
“I started around 12 or 13 years old buying and selling terracotta plant pots… then I had an antique dealership specialising in more industrial agricultural antiques.”
What distinguishes Luke—as Sara immediately recognised during work placement at Conversation Space—is an “ability to actually just have a chat and connect as people… Luke’s amazing at asking questions and being curious, not being afraid to just ask questions that some people might think, ‘Oh God, I can’t say that’. Having that willingness to just jump in, which I really valued.”
Helen’s leadership practice consistently champions this model of open questioning. As she advises, “Curiosity is a strategic asset—an approach that increases engagement, deepens trust, and fosters innovation.”
Building Psychological Safety for Bold, Authentic Dialogue
Crucial to unlocking ingenuity and trust is the deliberate creation of psychologically safe environments—places where people can both ask “knotty questions” and voice differing perspectives. As Luke shared, “I think that only comes from the fact that I was comfortable enough to ask those questions. I don’t think I would have asked those if I didn’t feel like it was a comfortable enough environment to put those questions to, though.”
Sara expanded: “It takes immense courage to do that, particularly going into a workplace…one of the questions Luke asked me was, ‘Where do you want the business to be in 5 years’ time?’…I don’t imagine many 22-year-olds would go into organisations and ask those kinds of knotty questions, but they are really valuable questions.”
As Helen explains, “Organisations must move beyond transactional communication and habitual busyness. As leaders, we should design cultures in which everyone—regardless of age or background—is empowered to speak truth with empathy and curiosity.”
SEO Focus: Human-Centred Selling—From Anxiety to Authenticity
Business development is often regarded with suspicion or fear, especially among technical experts and emerging professionals. Harris provided simple, actionable wisdom:
“Just pick up the phone basically… it’s just the easiest way to get better at it, get more relaxed. And the more relaxed you are, the better you’ll be at making those relationships and those connections and just better get at selling your whatever you’re selling, your good, your service, your experience.”
Even challenging sales conversations can yield positive business outcomes with the right mindset. Helen consistently reminds senior teams: “Success in sales—or any relational role—is not about perfection but about presence, tuning in to the human on the other side of the table (or phone), and being prepared to learn from the journey.”
Protecting Authenticity & Wellbeing: A Strategic Imperative for Modern Organisations
One of the most powerful themes explored in this episode is the risk that commercial pressures erode authenticity and confidence over time. As Helen observed, “There’s an argument that says we see a new generation that come through into the workplace… with ambition and excitement and authenticity. And through the years of working… it almost gets beaten out of them. All that creativity and spontaneity has kind of been hit by organisations.”
Sara called for urgent attention to this challenge:
“It’s really imperative that we focus attention and energy to making sure that we do look at the rich tapestry that is within organisations across generations and across difference, and to respect and value and grow relationships through our conversations.”
Helen’s own career demonstrates a practical commitment to human-centred culture, grounded in coaching, executive sponsorship, and relational intelligence.
Actionable Strategies for Human-Centred Organisational Growth
Drawing on years of practice and podcast insights, Helen and Sara advocate for five essential strategies:
Carve Out Real Space for Connection
“How much space do you create in your conversations to build a human connection?” as Sara asked. Helen advises: “Be deliberate about connecting—don’t leave it to chance.”Normalise Curiosity and Challenge at Every Level
“Progressive organisations must make workplaces safe for curiosity and courage; that’s where breakthrough happens.”Champion Bravery and Authenticity
“Stay true to yourself and seek those mentors who support, not smother, your growth.”View Difficult Conversations as Growth Opportunities
“Conflict and discomfort handled with empathy and skill are foundations of creative, resilient cultures.”Invest in Coaching and Sponsorship for All Generations
“Coaching is a powerful lever for unlocking both personal and commercial potential.”
Final Reflection: Success Begins with One Conversation
As the conversation closed, Helen offered a compelling vision for the future of work: “We’re learning what being human means at work, one conversation at a time.” Oraganisations across sectors are starting to wake up to the powerful truth that authentic dialogue isn’t just a ‘nice-to-have’—it’s the gateway to sustainable performance, engagement, and brand value.
For businesses ready to embrace this future, the next step is clear: start with one brave, intentional conversation—and build from there.
Follow Sara Hope on LinkedIn, or find other blogs in the series with Helen here.
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The Human Wise Podcast releases new episodes weekly—available on all major podcast platforms.