What if confronting life’s toughest conversations could lead to healing and empowerment? In this powerful episode of the We Are Power Podcast , we sit down with Jenny Guay, host of the Why Are We Whispering? podcast, author of Howie Blend , and a passionate advocate for open dialogue around sensitive topics. Jenny shares her transformative journey, where she turned personal adversity into a mission to amplify voices often silenced by shame. Driven by her experiences, she’s created safe spaces fo...
Dec 02, 2024•27 min
What if you could transform your workplace into a hub of innovation, well-being, and inclusivity? In this powerful episode of the We Are Power Podcast , we’re joined by Eloise Leonard-Cross, the Group Head of People at Northumbrian Water and winner of this year’s Northern Power Women Awards in the Large Organisation category. Eloise takes us on an inspiring journey, sharing her insights on why prioritising mental health, individuality, and well-being is essential for a thriving workplace. Discov...
Nov 25, 2024•20 min
Meet Dr. Deborah Lawson, a powerhouse in disability advocacy. Her story is not just about personal achievements but about fuelling a greater passion for equality, diversity, and inclusion. Deborah shares the experiences that shaped her path, from battling for accessible housing to helping others navigate a system that can be slow to change. Her stories are a reminder of the everyday courage that pushes society forward, bit by bit. Deborah’s mission to raise awareness also led her to create Damso...
Nov 18, 2024•30 min
Join us for an inspiring conversation with Raina Heverin, founder of Reculture and co-founder of Supplywell. Raina's journey goes far beyond business—it’s a powerful story about aligning passion with purpose. From heartfelt insights to actionable strategies, our chat is filled with life lessons about how personal growth drives professional impact. Raina also shares: Practical steps for employers and employees to support mental well-being Stories from her volunteering experience in Costa Rica Her...
Nov 11, 2024•25 min
Join us for an episode with Kelly Whitfield, founder and CEO of KLIK UK, who launched her entrepreneurial journey with just a £500 overdraft and built it into a powerhouse career. In this episode, Kelly shares her game-changing insights on standing out, staying true to your vision, and why focusing on personal growth is everything. From the legendary inspiration of Coco Chanel, Daniel Priestley, and Simon Sinek to a life-changing battle over maternity leave, Kelly’s story is one of resilience, a...
Nov 04, 2024•22 min
This week we are joined by Stevie Mclaren, Employability Partner at Newcastle Building Society and chair of the Women in Leadership Network. Stevie shares how her career was shaped by powerful female role models and a drive to uplift women and boost social mobility. We tackle the pressing barriers women encounter today, including gender bias and the struggle for work-life balance. Plus, Stevie reveals innovative solutions that are paving the way for change! Listen to learn: - The key barriers to...
Oct 28, 2024•17 min
Join us as we sit down with Claire O'Connor, founder of Baby Ballet, who has revolutionised how children experience dance. Growing up around ballet, Claire often felt she didn’t measure up to the high standards around her. But her journey is all about overcoming challenges, and defying expectations. With Baby Ballet now reaching over 22,000 children each week, Claire's story is a powerful reminder of the impact one person's vision can have. Listen to learn: How community and support networks can...
Oct 21, 2024•23 min
Join us as we chat with Jade Parkinson-Hill, Canva's Education and Community Manager, about her incredible career journey and how she found her way into the world of Canva. Jade talks about how Canva’s innovative features, like AI tools and website creation, are empowering freelancers, small business owners, and educators to unlock their creativity. She also highlights the importance of self-belief and resilience when navigating a non-linear career path. In this episode, Jade also discusses: The...
Oct 14, 2024•21 min
What drives an Olympic Story Teller to become an advocate for gender equality in sports? Meet Jamie Mittelman, the driving force behind Flamebearers, who’s on a mission to spotlight Olympians and Paralympians from all corners of the world. But that’s not all—Jamie also tells us about the progress and setbacks in the push for equal media coverage, pay, and recognition for women and para-athletes. Listen to learn: - How media can be used as a tool for empowerment and education - Stories of trailbl...
Oct 07, 2024•24 min
Jessica Page's journey from beauty queen to entrepreneur will give you a never seen before insight into the world of pageantry! 👑💪 Instead of letting obstacles slow her down, she turned them into stepping stones on her way to becoming Miss Universe Great Britain in 2023. Now, she's sharing her wisdom on building an authentic personal brand, staying true to yourself, and pushing through the tough times. Listen to learn: How her dad’s deli and her mom’s pageant history shaped her unstoppable dri...
Sep 30, 2024•31 min
"A ship is safe in the harbour, but that's not what ships are made for." Meet Sophie Storm Roberts, an extraordinary adventurer who shares her story on how a powerful mindset, mental resilience, and psychological tools helped her overcome both physical and emotional hurdles. You'll learn how she built confidence by confronting challenges head-on, proving that bravery is a skill anyone can develop. In this episode, Sophie also shares the gripping tale of her Alpine coast-to-coast expedition, wher...
Sep 23, 2024•27 min
This week, we're joined by Joanne Henry from NIHR, winners of the 2024 Northern Power Women Inclusive Innovation Award. Joanne shares how winning boosted their mission to transform healthcare and ensure fair access to health research for underserved communities in Greater Manchester. From the joy of winning to a celebration that involved everyone from finance to communications, Joanne’s story highlights the power of teamwork and community. Listen to learn: Joanne’s journey from children’s nurse ...
Sep 16, 2024•17 min•Season 17Ep. 28
This week we are joined by Alex Knight, founder and CEO of STEMazing, about her mission to empower women in STEM and inspire the next generation. Alex dives into the power of mentoring, smashing gender stereotypes, and why everyone, no matter their position, can be a role model. And she reveals the book that reshaped her mindset on lifting others up while pursuing success. Listen to learn: - The power of STEM education and mentorship - Why harmony is more important than balance - Alex’s inspirat...
Sep 09, 2024•22 min•Season 17Ep. 26
Unlock the secrets of successful leadership and career growth with Iwona Szmidt and Michael Howard from Bank of America. Discover how resilience and transferable skills can transform your professional journey. Tune in to hear insightful stories about the role of employee networks in creating inclusive workplaces, especially for the LGBTQ+ community. Listen to Learn: - How embracing diversity boosts leadership and drives success. - The transformative power of active listening. - Navigating a dyna...
Sep 02, 2024•28 min•Season 17Ep. 25
This week, we sit down with Julie Baker, Head of Strategic Partnerships at NatWest Group. Julie shares her inspiring 42-year journey from aspiring PE teacher to a leading role at NatWest, and her dedication to empowering women in business. Discover the power of sponsorship, the importance of stepping outside your comfort zone, and how building the right networks can lead to success. Listen to learn: -The importance of investing in women-led businesses -The collective efforts needed to empower fe...
Aug 26, 2024•20 min•Season 17Ep. 24
Ever wondered how a four-day workweek could revolutionise your workplace? This week, we’re joined by Alison Dunn, our 2024 Levelling Up Leader and CEO of Citizens Advice Gateshead, who’s done just that. She takes us through her incredible career journey and shares how the Northern Power Women Awards supercharged her organisation’s mission. Alison’s passion shines through as she encourages leaders to stand up for their communities and always think about the real people behind their decisions. Lis...
Aug 19, 2024•24 min•Season 17Ep. 23
Join us this week as we chat with Hayley Roberts, CEO of Distology and our 2024 Outstanding Entrepreneur Winner! Hayley shares the emotional story behind winning the award and what it means to her. Discover the importance of staying true to yourself how being authentic has led to Hayley's achievements. And she shares her nostalgic love for perms and why she’s still proud of her hair days gone by! Listen to learn: - The challenges and rewards of building a tech business in the North - The power o...
Aug 12, 2024•21 min•Season 17Ep. 22
Join us as we sit down with Jayne Little, the founder and CEO of Skills4, and our 2024 Agent of Change! Jayne opens up about her incredible journey from leaving school with limited qualifications to overcoming personal losses and setting up her own business. Facing bias and microaggressions in male-dominated fields? Janye shares her experiences of confronting gender inequality, particularly within STEM. Listen to learn: - how Jayne has impacted the lives of over 10,000 women - the role of allies...
Aug 05, 2024•22 min•Season 17Ep. 21
Ever wondered what it takes to balance purpose and profit? Gill Hunter takes us behind the scenes of Square One Law's two-year journey to achieve B Corp certification. She shares candid insights into building an inclusive workplace, why cultural change is crucial for any organisation. Discover how she and her team are not just aiming for financial success, but also making a positive impact on people and the planet. Listen to Learn: - What winning at the 2024 Northern Power Women Awards meant to ...
Jul 29, 2024•23 min•Season 17Ep. 20
This week on the We Are Power podcast, we chat with Chloe Fletcher, co-founder of the Job Share Revolution and 2024 Northern Power Women Awards' Mentor of the Year commended winner. Chloe shares how her award nomination came at a pivotal moment in her career, and the moving testimonials from her mentees. Join us to explore the power of mentorship and advocacy through the inspiring story of a finance director turned passionate mentor. Listen to learn; - about the Northern Power Women Awards' ment...
Jul 22, 2024•20 min•Season 17Ep. 19
Join us as we chat with Nicola Johnson, Director of the HR Centre of Excellence at Bentley , as she opens up about balancing a high-powered career and being a mum. From her return to work after maternity leave to the thrill of driving a Continental GT Speed at Silverstone, Nicola's stories are all about breaking boundaries. And find out about Nicola's role models, like Michelle Obama and Katie Piper, and key figures in the automotive world who have paved the way. Listen to learn: 🎙️the importan...
Jul 15, 2024•19 min•Season 17Ep. 18
Get ready for a captivating episode with Eleonore Fournier-Tombs, the brilliant mind behind 'Gender Reboot: Reprogramming Gender Rights in the Age of AI'. Eleonore shares her path from a shy teenager in Model UN to a trailblazing data scientist at the UN. Listen as she dives deep into the motherhood penalty and the urgent need to challenge stereotypical gender roles in caregiving. Listen to learn: - Why women’s participation in AI development is essential - How AI tools often reinforce tradition...
Jul 08, 2024•26 min•Season 17Ep. 19
This week we are joined by Simon Calderbank, Positive Leadership Mindset Coach and 2024 Northern Power Women Awards Advocacy Lister. Listen as Simon shares how a cancer scare led to him finding a passion-driven career. Learn about Simons work in coaching, with everyone from corporate leaders to troubled teenagers. And hear the inspiring story of a woman who overcame a toxic work environment to land her dream job with the help of Simon's coaching. Listen to learn: How to use your privilege for go...
Jul 01, 2024•23 min•Season 17Ep. 17
Meet Angela Owen OBE, the founder of Women in Defence UK and a 2024 Northern Power Women Awards finalist! Discover how Angela transitioned from a military career to founding an organisation advocating for gender equality in the defence sector. And hear Angela's story of being the second ever mother to re-join the military... Listen to learn: - The evolving policies and attitudes towards women in the military - About the Women in Defence UK mentoring programme - Angela's experience competing at t...
Jun 24, 2024•19 min•Season 17Ep. 16
2024 Northern Power Women Awards Future Lister, Dr Beth Barnes shares her journey into the world of engineering. From her accidental discovery of civil engineering to her dedication to building inclusive spaces, Dr. Barnes provides valuable insights for listeners from all walks of life. And find out how she founded the Durham Women's Engineering Society to create a safe space for women to discuss challenges and support each other. Listen to learn: - How we can create inclusive spaces within engi...
Jun 17, 2024•19 min•Season 17Ep. 15
Join us as Seb Randle, Founder of The Helpful Space and a UN Women UK Delegate, shares his journey from a 20-year career in media to a fulfilling role in coaching and advocacy. Discover how a pivotal moment just before the pandemic inspired Seb to empower young professionals in a tech-driven world. And hear Seb's passionate insights on advocacy, allyship, and creating a positive future through inclusive conversations. Listen to learn: - Seb's ongoing journey of learning and self-reflection. - Th...
Jun 10, 2024•23 min•Season 17Ep. 14
Discover the true meaning of resilience as we bring you an insightful episode of the Northern Power Women podcast, live from EY HQ in Manchester. Our panelists Lauren, Rebecca, and Kerry share their unique stories and wisdom about overcoming setbacks. . Join us to hear inspiring anecdotes about learning from challenges, embracing progress over perfection, and the importance of making everyone in the room feel included and valued. Listen to Learn: - common misconceptions about resilience - how ti...
Jun 03, 2024•31 min•Season 17Ep. 13
Paul Sesay, the driving force behind Inclusive Companies Limited, joins us to share his awe-inspiring story of resilience. Paul shares how his early years forged a path of activism which led to his recognition as a 2024 Northern Power Women Advocate. He candidly discusses his own struggles with mental health and the importance of seeking help. And find out which Liverpool legend inspired him... Listen to Learn: - how we can better promote diversity and inclusion - the value in viewing setbacks a...
May 27, 2024•22 min•Season 17Ep. 12
Meet Olivia Clarke, a leading advocate for educational reform from our 2024 Future List. Hear Olivia’s story as the first in her family to graduate from university and her eye-opening experience stepping into the shoes of the mayor. And her advice for aspiring activists? Move forward fearlessly, collaborate widely, and boldly stand out from the crowd. Listen to learn: - the influence of working-class perspectives - how we can all champion change - about the grassroots organisation Reclaim - the ...
May 20, 2024•21 min•Season 17Ep. 11
Step into the heart of cinematic innovation with our latest episode featuring not one, but two incredible guests: Rizwan Wadan and Nina Karwalska. Together, they're leading the charge for diversity and inclusion in film. Join us as we discuss how they're breaking down barriers in the industry and creating opportunities for everyone through projects like Futures in Film. And find out what joining our 2024 Advocacy List meant to Rizwan. Listen to learn: - The importance of accurate representation ...
May 13, 2024•23 min•Season 17Ep. 10
