• Its all in the title: Renee Preston CEO
    Feb 19 2026

    Renee Preston, doesn't just do nice chats - she wants change and she is happy to role her sleeves up and be a leading force in creating change. A reluctant CEO of Gallaway Construction, in this episode we dive into everything from representation of women on site, to mentoring and imposter syndrome.

    It explores the importance of leadership, male allies, and support for women in construction, as well as the need for representation and change in the industry culture. Renee shares her personal journey, lessons learned, and her vision for the future of women in construction.

    Takeaways

    • Leadership in Construction
    • Mentoring and Support for Women in Construction

    If today’s conversation resonated with you, you’ll find even more support at Glee Coaching. I’m Barbra Carlisle, helping leaders who never expected to be in charge lead with clarity, confidence and impact. If you’re enjoying The Unlikely Executive, please follow, like and share the podcast -it helps more leaders find the tools and honesty they need.

    And if you’re ready for deeper support, resources and ways to work with me, visit www.gleecoaching.co.uk - your next step in stronger, more courageous leadership starts there.

    Reach Renee on LInked In (10) Renee Preston | LinkedIn and visit her website at Gallaway Construction - Building For Better

    Show More Show Less
    25 mins
  • The Unlikely Executive: On the runway with Tim Walder
    Feb 5 2026

    Tim Walder shares his journey in the aviation industry, emphasizing the importance of career purpose and emotional intelligence. He discusses career progression, leadership, mentorship, challenges, resilience, and retirement, highlighting the need for a sense of purpose in life after retirement.

    Takeaways

    • Career purpose
    • Emotional intelligence

    Chapters

    • 00:00 Passion for Aviation
    • 05:55 Leadership and Mentorship
    • 24:29 Challenges and Resilience
    • 30:12 Retirement and Purpose
    Show More Show Less
    24 mins
  • From Geologist to Global Growth Officer
    Jan 22 2026

    The conversation covers Kathleen Abbott's career journey, challenges in the construction industry, work-life balance, and societal impact in the construction sector. It also delves into the transition into a new role, starting a new job, and career planning. Kathleen shares insights on navigating career growth, expectations, and the importance of balancing work and personal life.

    Takeaways

    • Career journey and growth
    • Balancing work and personal life

    Chapters

    • 00:00 Navigating Career Growth and Expectations
    • 08:46 Early Career and Professional Development
    • 15:16 Challenges and Progress in the Construction Industry
    • 22:43 Balancing Work and Personal Life
    • 28:43 Supporting Societal Benefit in the Construction Sector

    To find our more about Kathleen connect with her on Linked In

    or visit www.shawmut.com

    Barbra the host is an executive coach and experienced facilitator helping people navigate their own leadership journey with spirit and authenticity. To find our more email barbra@gleecoaching.com or www.gleecoaching.com

    Show More Show Less
    26 mins
  • Changing the Lives of Others
    Jun 20 2025



    Sabiene didn't need to have left her financially rewarding job in Private Banking, and Financial Analysis: but she did. After spending time raising money on behalf of Huntingdon Disease charity she reflected on where she was at and what she could offer the world. This saw her leave her secure job and start to have a small role fundraising for Be Free Young Carers. Listen to the podcast to find out how she became CEO. What she brings to the role and what her challenges are. Maybe something in what she says will resonate for you. With at least 3 children in every classroom in Oxfordshire identified as young carers we need to do more to support and nurture their happiness and talent. Be Free Young Carers not only allows them a space to be children, but also equips them with life-changing skills such as first aid training, cookery, and mindfulness. The aim is to provide peace of mind and wellbeing skills to help them maintain a positive outlook on their lives and achieve in their education and future careers.


    For more information, please visit: https://befreeyc.org.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.


    If you are kind enough to leave a review, please do let Barbra know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at barbra@gleecoaching.com


    If you enjoyed this one please hit Subscribe on your favourite podcast app to be notified each time a new episode of The Unlikely Executive is released

    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
    30 mins
  • Transformation Comes in Many Ways
    Jan 31 2025

    Cohan follows his purpose with a very clear passion. A passion to increase diversity within the Tech sector. Cohan had experienced the sector and knew that there was more diverse talent that could be tapped into to accelerate the tech sector as well as the careers of highly talented individuals. After being made redundant he bit the bullet and set up Equity in Tech, to support others to excel.


    In our latest podcast Cohan talks to us about how mental wellness impacted his decisions, and how, as a start-up, there are lots of arrows to be throwing all at the same time and in different directions!



    For more information, you may find this via the link below:

    LinkedIn- https://www.linkedin.com/in/cohanleondaleyuk/


    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
    32 mins
  • Bringing Southport Together: The Devotion Behind the Community
    Jun 5 2025

    Alan Adams was told that he wouldn't amount to much by his teachers. He is now leading a charitable organisations that delivers the UK's largest flower show - Southport Flower Show every year, as well as managing one of the North West's premier outdoor event spaces - Victoria Park. Listen to him talk about his journey and what he thinks makes a good leader.



    For more information, please visit:

    Company Website: https://southportflowershow.co.uk/

    Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SouthportFlowerShow

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/southportflowershow/

    LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alan-adams-2a93068a/

    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
  • We Are Radical Change Makers: From Barriers to Breakthroughs
    Jul 4 2025

    Emma is radical - in the way she sees the world and the spirit she brings into what she does. With two start up organisations to lead, Emma is a strong story teller with a purpose.


    The first organisation is Radical Recruit which is the UK's only charitable recruitment, CSR, ESG and Social Value partner for businesses that want to level the playing field for Radical people and communities. Founded by Emma and Jude (Em's mum) in October 2019, the Radical team has placed over 750 people who are furthest from the labour market ‘Super Radicals’ - into good jobs, that offer fair pay in exchange for meaningful work. B Radical, the second organisation helps businesses - big and small - to turn their diversity, Corporate Social Responsibility and 'Environmental Social and Governance' rhetoric into meaningful action by levelling the playing field for Radical people and communities.


    For more information, please visit:


    B-Radical Website: https://www.b-radical.co.uk/

    Radical Recruit Website: https://radicalrecruit.co.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.


    If you are kind enough to leave a review, please do let Barbra know so she can say thank you. You can always reach her at barbra@gleecoaching.com


    If you enjoyed this one please hit Subscribe on your favourite podcast app to be notified each time a new episode of The Unlikely Executive is released

    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
    32 mins
  • Leaving to Leading: Trusting your Gut and Business Start-Ups
    Oct 23 2025

    With over 35 years of experience in Financial Services including Fintech, Pensions and Investment, Steve is a seasoned business leader and entrepreneur who is passionate about helping people maximise their retirement. He is the Managing Director of Pension Potential, a digital at-retirement guidance and advice solution that empowers members and employees to make informed decisions about their retirement. He is a regular writer and speaker on intergenerational working, retirement, and older worker business management issues, and has published several business books about intergenerational managment and inclusive culture. He is committed to developing an inclusive culture in the workplace, where people of all ages and backgrounds can thrive and contribute.




    For more information, please visit:


    Company Website: https://www.puntersouthall.com/

    Guest's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevenbutler/?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
    27 mins