Sparkling and Dogged: Erina Reddan on Optimism and Storytelling
Sparkling and Dogged Optimism: Erina Reddan on Leadership, Storytelling, and Communication That Inspires
The Optimism Man Podcast with Victor Perton

Listen on Apple Podcasts
Listen on Spotify Podcasts
In a world filled with noise and uncertainty, optimism is a clear call to action. For today’s leaders, optimism is a strength that shapes better outcomes, fosters deeper trust, and enables confident decision-making.
On this week’s episode of The Optimism Man Podcast, Victor Perton sat down with the extraordinary Dr Erina Reddan, foreign correspondent, award-winning novelist, strategist, and trusted coach to contemporary leaders. This robust conversation examined how sparkling optimism and unwavering determination can foster clarity, resilience, and purpose in leadership.
Optimism as a Strategic Force
Erina brings to life two dynamic expressions of optimism:
-
Sparkling Optimism shines through with creativity, warmth, and joy
-
Dogged Optimism shows up through persistence, courage, and steadiness in uncertainty
Her lived experience spanning war zones, newsrooms, boardrooms, and writing desks reveals optimism as a bold mindset and a reliable companion in leadership. It empowers calm thinking, consistent action, and a hopeful presence in the face of challenges.
“Optimism means being able to see your way through to a better place and keeping going. It is a motor.” — Erina Reddan
The Power of Story in Leadership
Erina reminded us that leaders must be storytellers. It is not enough to merely inform; great leaders inspire. They create meaning, shape culture, and connect the dots with clarity.
“People want to follow someone who sounds like they know what they are doing. Story gives structure to chaos.”
Storytelling is how people remember. It is how cultures evolve. It is the beating heart of every great leader’s communication.
Communication That Inspires Trust
Through her consultancy, Red River, Erina helps leaders:
-
Communicate with confidence and calm
-
Deliver difficult messages without losing trust
-
Replace noise with a meaningful connection
“If you can bring calm into your communication, you create space for people to think.”
She teaches a leadership voice that is grounded, strategic, and above all, human. It is communication that cuts through complexity and inspires action.
A Special Offer for Listeners
Erina has generously offered 25% off her leadership communication program exclusively to listeners of The Optimism Man Podcast.
🖥️ To access this offer and explore her consulting work, visit: https://www.redriver.net.au/
📚 To discover her writing and novels, visit: https://www.erinareddan.com.au/
A Closing Reflection
Erina Reddan leads with presence and purpose. Her storytelling sharpens strategy. Her optimism lifts teams and transforms outcomes. Whether you are building a vision, navigating change, or finding your voice as a leader, her insights will stay with you.
“The kind of communication I teach helps people stay together, work together, and go forward together.”
So, what is your next act of optimism?
And how will you lead with greater clarity, creativity, and courage?
