Drop the Act
Drop the Act
Podcast Description
Drop the Act is a podcast that dives deep into the power of authentic leadership, communication, and storytelling. Hosted by Christopher Key, it features candid conversations with high achievers across industries who share their lessons, challenges, and the transformative power of leading with authenticity.
This isn’t just another leadership podcast. It’s a call to cut through the noise, drop the pretence, and embrace real, impactful connections. Whether you’re a leader, or striving for personal growth, Drop the Act offers practical insights to help you lead and communicate authentically with confidence.
About the Host: Christopher Key
Christopher Key is an accomplished theatre professional and Associate Director for world-renowned productions such as Les Misérables (Korea & Japan, 2024) and The Wizard of Oz (UK Tour, 2024) and With a career spanning continents and roles both on stage and behind the scenes, Chris has mastered the art of leadership, collaboration, resilience, and communication under pressure.
Chris’s unique background in theatre translates seamlessly into leadership and business. Directing large-scale productions has given him deep insights into team motivation, creative problem-solving, and authentic communication—skills which he shares with listeners on Drop the Act.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast explores diverse topics centered on authentic leadership, storytelling, and effective communication. Episodes include insights on building high-performing teams, overcoming self-doubt, the transition from performer to entrepreneur, and the importance of emotional intelligence in leadership.
Drop the Act is a podcast that dives deep into the power of authentic leadership, communication, and storytelling. Hosted by Christopher Key, it features candid conversations with high achievers across industries who share their lessons, challenges, and the transformative power of leading with authenticity.
This isn’t just another leadership podcast. It’s a call to cut through the noise, drop the pretence, and embrace real, impactful connections. Whether you’re a leader, or striving for personal growth, Drop the Act offers practical insights to help you lead and communicate authentically with confidence.
About the Host: Christopher Key
Christopher Key is an accomplished theatre professional and Associate Director for world-renowned productions such as Les Misérables (Korea & Japan, 2024) and The Wizard of Oz (UK Tour, 2024) and With a career spanning continents and roles both on stage and behind the scenes, Chris has mastered the art of leadership, collaboration, resilience, and communication under pressure.
Chris’s unique background in theatre translates seamlessly into leadership and business. Directing large-scale productions has given him deep insights into team motivation, creative problem-solving, and authentic communication—skills which he shares with listeners on Drop the Act.
In this powerful episode, Chris is joined by Dr. Sophia Cashman and Mr. Benedict Sherwood—two exceptional surgeons at the forefront of NHS leadership and patient care. Together, they take us inside the operating theatre to explore the life-or-death communication, real-time decision-making, and emotional intelligence required to lead under pressure.
What unfolds is an unflinching, honest, and surprisingly human look at leadership, teamwork, and trust—offering vital insights for any business leader seeking to build resilient, high-performing teams.
🎧 What You’ll Learn:
How surgeons prepare to perform when the stakes are highest
Why communication isn’t just about talking—it’s about timing, tone, and trust
How to lead when things go wrong, not just when they go right
What businesses can learn from surgical debriefs and team briefings
How to manage emotions, personalities, and pressure with grace
Why great leaders aren’t always liked—but they are respected
🩺 About Dr. Sophia Cashman & Mr. Benedict Sherwood:
Sophia Cashman is a Consultant Urological Surgeon specialising in bladder dysfunction, complex urinary infections, and reconstructive urology. She’s also a rising leader in NHS training and education, passionate about communication and clarity under pressure.
Benedict Sherwood is a Consultant Urological Surgeon and clinical leader with over 30 years in the NHS. He specialises in robotic surgery and prostate cancer care and is a trusted educator and mentor at one of the UK’s leading teaching hospitals.
Together, their insights offer a rare blend of clinical excellence and leadership wisdom forged in high-stakes environments.
🎭 About Christopher Key & Performing Perfectly:
Christopher Key is a theatre director, communication coach, and founder of Performing Perfectly—a company that helps business leaders improve how they connect, influence, and lead using techniques drawn from the performing arts.
🔗 Connect with Performing Perfectly: 🌐 Website: www.performingperfectly.com 📸 Instagram: @performingperfectly 🔗 LinkedIn: linkedin.com/company/performing-perfectly
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Disclaimer
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