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The Unlikely Executive

The Unlikely Executive

Written by: JCT Media
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You know there’s more in you—more to explore, more to give, and more to live.

Welcome to The Unlikely Executive Podcast, a bi-weekly show for those who want to make a difference—whether they’re already doing good, don’t know where to start, or are simply curious about what’s possible.

This podcast is designed especially for New CEOs of nonprofits who feel they’re in the right place but wonder, Now what? Those at a crossroads, unsure if they have what it takes to craft a meaningful career doing what they love.

Curious minds seeking inspiration and clarity about the art of the possible.

Every episode, host Barbra Carlisle, Founder of Glee Coaching Ltd, Accredited Coach, and Mentor, brings you candid conversations with people like you who are now leaders making a significant difference. These are people whose journeys to where they are today were far from textbook. Challenges, self-doubt, and surprising turns all play a part. Yet, they’ve emerged with a sense of purpose, passion, and a desire to contribute positively to our wonderful and complex world.

Through inspiring stories, actionable tips, and heartfelt moments, each guest reveals how they stepped into the unknown, discovered their purpose, and made a difference.

If you’re ready to unlock your potential, challenge yourself, and take steps toward creating the impact you dream of, this podcast is for you.

Subscribe now to start your journey of discovery, and together, let’s build a better future—one purposeful step at a time.

Visit www.gleecoaching.com to learn more.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

JCT Media Careers Economics Leadership Management Management & Leadership Personal Success
Episodes
  • Creating a Blueprint for a Sustainable Future: With Alan Brookes

    Creating a Blueprint for a Sustainable Future: With Alan Brookes
    Jan 9 2026

    Chief Arcadian. People Champion. Passionate about sustainable transformation and finding solutions to global challenges. Playing his part in helping to preserve the planet and improve quality of life.


    Alan was born in Chester in the United Kingdom. He has lived and worked abroad in Asia, but home now is in Warrington, just over half an hour away from where he grew up. He’s married to Tracy and has four children – who are now (young) adults – and is a ‘retired’ amateur singer and lover of all kinds of music.


    Alan was appointed Chief Executive Officer in May 2023, and leads Arcadis with a clear vision: to create a blueprint for a sustainable future. Under Alan’s leadership, Arcadis has positioned itself at the forefront of global efforts to address climate change, accelerate clean energy transition and build resilient, livable cities. Today he works with and leads more than 36,000 talented and gifted Arcadians in over 30 countries, all dedicated to improving quality of life.



    For more information, please visit:


    Company Website: https://www.arcadis.com/en-gb

    Guest's LinkedIn: https://nl.linkedin.com/in/alan-brookes-703a3114


    barbra@gleecoaching.com | www.gleecoaching.co.uk | (17) Barbra Carlisle (FCIPD) | LinkedIn


    If you found this episode of The Unlikely Executive helpful, please do rate and review it on Apple, Spotify or Amazon.

    Subscribe now to start your journey of discovery, and together, let’s build a better future—one purposeful step at a time.

    Visit www.gleecoaching.com to learn more.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
    Show More Show Less
    34 mins
  • No Linear Path: From Journalist to Charity CEO

    No Linear Path: From Journalist to Charity CEO
    Dec 19 2025

    For more information, please visit:


    Company Website: https://careerready.org.uk/

    Guest's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anne-spackman-3bb19a82/?originalSubdomain=uk


    barbra@gleecoaching.com | www.gleecoaching.co.uk | (17) Barbra Carlisle (FCIPD) | LinkedIn


    If you found this episode of The Unlikely Executive helpful, please do rate and review it on Apple, Spotify or Amazon.

    Subscribe now to start your journey of discovery, and together, let’s build a better future—one purposeful step at a time.

    Visit www.gleecoaching.com to learn more.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
    Show More Show Less
    34 mins
  • Opening Up Workforce Opportunities: Connecting Northumberland

    Opening Up Workforce Opportunities: Connecting Northumberland
    Dec 5 2025

    Appointed as Chief Executive, Liz Mayes brings dynamic leadership and a forward-thinking perspective to Connect Northumberland. Her extensive experience in industry and regional development positions her well to drive the organisation's strategic vision. Liz's passion for diversity and equality of opportunity is set to elevate Connect Northumberland's impact, ensuring it continues to address the evolving needs of the county.



    For more information, please visit:


    Company Website: https://www.connectnorthumberland.org/


    barbra@gleecoaching.com | www.gleecoaching.co.uk | (17) Barbra Carlisle (FCIPD) | LinkedIn


    If you found this episode of The Unlikely Executive helpful, please do rate and review it on Apple, Spotify or Amazon.

    Subscribe now to start your journey of discovery, and together, let’s build a better future—one purposeful step at a time.

    Visit www.gleecoaching.com to learn more.

    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
    Show More Show Less
    31 mins
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