What does it really mean to lead with empathy—especially when life rewrites your story? It’s Jamie’s personal story that makes this conversation unforgettable. After experiencing sight loss, he shares how learning to accept help transformed his independence, deepened his empathy, and reshaped how he supports others—especially leaders managing pressure, people, and performance in the “squeezed middle.”

In this powerful episode of The Empowered Podcast, I'm joined by Dr. Jamie Ward, Head of Talent & Learning at Channel 4, to talk about human-first leadership, resilience, and the kind of authenticity you can’t fake. Jamie’s career journey is extraordinary—from selling banknote paper across the former Soviet Union and Eastern Europe during a period of huge historical change, to shaping leaders inside one of the UK’s most iconic broadcasters.

Together Jamie and I explore:

• What empathy actually looks like at work (and what to avoid)

• Why people don’t need “fixing”—they need to be heard

• The leadership power of coaching skills, open questions, and presence

• How Channel 4 uses real employee stories to build genuinely empathetic leaders

• Resilience lessons from running a half marathon with a guide runner—“running into the void”

• A joyful closing on what genre Jamie’s life story would be (plus his dream actor!)

I'm honoured to be joined in this episode by senior leader, coach and self-confessed “hugger” Ian Walker. We explore what values-led, human leadership really looks like.

Ian shares how a painful boarding school experience shaped his commitment to connection and equality, his unconventional career pivot from operations into global talent development at Salesforce, and why travel and cultural diversity are powerful antidotes to fear and nationalism.

Ian reflects on privilege, fairness, conscious leadership, and the quiet courage it takes to choose purpose, vulnerability and service over ego and power. This is a warm, thoughtful conversation about legacy, parenting, politics, and the small everyday actions we can all take to build a fairer, kinder world.

In this episode, we (among many other topics) dive into:

• How a difficult childhood experience turned Ian into a lifelong “hugger” and connector

• The values of integrity, equality and fairness that underpin his leadership

• His career pivot from operations into global learning and talent development at Salesforce

• The role of travel and cultural diversity in challenging nationalism and widening perspective

• What Jacinda Ardern taught him about vulnerability, courage and legacy in leadership

• Simple, everyday ways we can all contribute to a kinder, more equal world

Enjoy!

Super excited to be joined by a guest who has personally empowered me to become a better parent. Susie Good is a highly experienced emotional intelligence coach whose services are much sought after to help children who may be experiencing some tricky times. She transforms the lives of children and families and offers practical strategies to those who are struggling, enabling them to feel more empowered and in control.

• The Power of Empowerment: Discover what it truly means to empower children by giving them the tools, confidence, and responsibility to manage their emotions and behaviours.
• Separating Behaviour from the Child: Learn how understanding behavior as a weather pattern—temporary, changeable, and separate from the child's identity—can dramatically shift your parenting approach.
• Active Listening at Level Five: Gain practical tips on how to truly listen to children by giving them your undivided attention
• Boundaries and Safety: Understand how consistent, kind boundaries—and the boundaries you stick to—help children feel safe and secure.
• Handling Challenging Emotions: From anger to anxiety, Suzie introduces strategies for helping children channel their emotions productively, such as validating feelings and offering alternative actions.
• The Importance of Self-Care & Boundaries for Adults
• Getting to the Root of Behavioural Issues:
• Supporting Transitions and Challenging Times: Whether it’s starting secondary school or dealing with anxieties, Suzie offers guidance on how to prepare children proactively and how schools can support them better.
• Perseverance & Belief: "The worst thing that can happen is you try." Susie's story highlights resilience, adaptability, and the importance of trusting in yourself and others.

This episode provides a treasure trove of wisdom about how to nurture confident, resilient, and emotionally intelligent kids. Suzy’s compassionate approach will remind you that change takes time, effort, and patience—and that your role as a parent or caregiver is to be a steady, supportive guide.

Tune in now to learn practical tools that will help you create a safe, connected environment where children can thrive, learn responsibility, and feel truly empowered.

What an episode 9...meet my incredible guest -Jordan Stachini: The ROI-Obsessed, Guinness-Loving, No Fluff Marketer who is leading the charge in (authentic!) personal branding.

Listen in for our discussion on a tonne of meaty topics - from how to live fearlessly, knowing your purpose to disruptive marketing strategies and practical tips on getting unstuck (whether personally, professionally or both!), embracing change, and prioritising happiness.

• Get inspired by Jordan's leap of faith - leaving a corporate role to build a thriving agency (right before lockdown hit!)
• The importance of authenticity and straight talk in branding.
• Insights on leadership, empowerment, and living true to your values
• Overcoming challenges & making fearless decisions.

Jordan's story is a testament to the power of authenticity, discipline, and daring to be different. Whether you're feeling stuck or simply need a dose of motivation, her wisdom is gold.

Tune in for candid conversations, big lessons, and some seriously inspiring ideas for living and leading with purpose.

When you align what you do with who you are at your core, you create lasting change.” - a beautiful quote from this week's podcast guest JL Moura. JL is an incredible leader, executive coach, and someone I deeply respect and have personally been hugely inspired by.

In this episode of Empowered Mindset, JL opens up about his journey — from leading Fortune 500 companies to finding purpose in helping others awaken their true potential.

Some of the many topics discussed:

• Leading from your values to create genuine value
• The importance of self-awareness and resilience
• Awakening potential in others to foster growth and innovation
• Navigating challenges, setbacks, and the journey of empowerment

If you're looking for a dose of authenticity and practical wisdom on leading with purpose, I think you'll find this episode valuable.

Enjoy!

In this episode, I had the great pleasure of sitting down with Mike Silverberg, a seasoned HR leader, coach, and founder of Silver Lining. Tune in for a raw and energising conversation on how to lead with courage, bounce back stronger, and build teams that truly thrive. We also examine ways to navigate change, overcome setbacks, and build resilient leadership skills—super timely in today’s fast-paced world.

You'll also hear inspiring stories from Mike, from his career pivots, to working with LEGO, and relocating to Amsterdam.

As always you'll hear actionable insights on leadership, personal growth, and thriving through adversity.

Enjoy!

Why is it so hard to create real change in diversity, equity, and inclusion?

This week, I’m excited to chat to the incredible Richard Cootie, a DEI specialist and anti-racism advocate, who has dedicated his life to empowering others and making systemic change.

Richard’s journey is an inspiring one, and in this episode, we dive deep into the heart of diversity, equity, and inclusion, with key insights on how we can all take action to drive real change:

In this episode, we discuss:

1. The importance of authenticity in leadership and inclusion
2. Why equity should be the foundation of every organization’s DEI strategy
3. How to overcome systemic challenges and create equal opportunities for all
4. The role of mentors, sponsors, and advocates in empowering underrepresented groups
5. Richard’s powerful thoughts on leveraging privilege to level the playing field

Richard’s perspective is something we all need to hear, especially as we look at the real-world impact of inclusion, equity, and social justice. If you’re ready to get inspired and learn how to take action in your own sphere of influence, listen now!