We Are Power Podcast

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 Damson’s Friendship Wish, a children’s book that gently teaches kids about acceptance and the beauty of inclusion. Listen to learn:- Why creating inclusive communities benefits us all- How compassionate leadership can challenge unconscious bias- The quiet impact of helping others without seeking recognition- The importance of small acts of kindness Sign up to our Power Platform to check out our events calendar here. Keep up to date on the latest news from We Are Power : Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram & Facebook Sign up to our newsletter.

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 RicaHer dedication to empowering young female entrepreneurs through mentorship at the Women of Colour Global NetworkThe triumphs and challenges she’s faced as an entrepreneurThis episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking motivation, guidance, and a fresh perspective on balancing personal and professional growth.Sign up to our Power Platform to check out our events calendar here. Keep up to date on the latest news from We Are Power : Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram & Facebook Sign up to our newsletter.

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, ambition, and integrity.Listen to learn:The key traits that fuel entrepreneurial successWhy embracing fearlessness, adaptability, and learning from setbacks are non-negotiablesThe power of knowing your "why" in businessEssential advice for women stepping into (or back into) industries where they’re often underestimated.Sign up to our Power Platform to check out our events calendar here. Keep up to date on the latest news from We Are Power : Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram & Facebook Sign up to our newsletter.

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 women’s progression in the workplace.- The importance of showcasing women’s achievements to inspire others.- Stevie's top tips on how to advocate for yourself.- Insights into the impactful work of the Women in Leadership Network.Sign up to our Power Platform to check out our events calendar here. Keep up to date on the latest news from We Are Power : Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram & Facebook Sign up to our newsletter.

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 make all the differenceWhy inclusivity matters in dance and the artsHow believing in your vision helps you overcome challengesThe power of education and representation in breaking ballet stereotypesClaire's journey is a testament to resilience, innovation, and the power of staying true to one's mission.Sign up to our Power Platform to check out our events calendar here. Keep up to date on the latest news from We Are Power : Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram & Facebook Sign up to our newsletter.

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 supportive gaming scene in LiverpoolThe crucial role of digital literacyHow key mentors have shaped her careerThe challenge of staying connected in a fast-paced, tech-driven worldIf you're interested in technology, education, or career growth, this is a conversation you won't want to miss!Sign up to our Power Platform to check out our events calendar here. Keep up to date on the latest news from We Are Power : Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram & Facebook Sign up to our newsletter.

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 trailblazing female athletes - The ongoing battle for equality in sports - Why diverse role models are key to inspiring the next generation of athletes!Sign up to our Power Platform to check out our events calendar here. Keep up to date on the latest news from We Are Power : Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram & Facebook Sign up to our newsletter.

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 drive.The unique challenges women face in the entrepreneurial world—and how Jessica tackles them head-on!The story behind her passion project, Take Care LeadJess' surprising love for scuba diving!Sign up to our Power Platform to check out our events calendar here. Keep up to date on the latest news from We Are Power : Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram & Facebook Sign up to our newsletter.

"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, where she climbed the highest mountains in eight Alpine countries and cycled between them—all in just 32 days. Her narrative is a testament to how pushing beyond conventional limits can lead to remarkable personal growth and deeper fulfilment.Sophie also discusses: ✨ Her inspiring youth empowerment project aimed at uplifting teenage girls from underprivileged backgrounds ✨ Free diving in the Bahamas ✨ The profound impact of mentorship✨ The transformative power of daily actionsSophie’s experiences highlight the importance of connection and the extraordinary potential within all of us. Tune in for an episode filled with inspiration, practical advice, and heartfelt stories that will motivate you to take your own leap of faith.Sign up to our Power Platform to check out our events calendar here. Keep up to date on the latest news from We Are Power : Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram & Facebook Sign up to our newsletter.

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 to leader in health research How the NIHR team is changing the face of healthcare and research for underserved groups Why innovation is essential in tackling health inequalities The importance of celebrating success as a team Sign up to our Power Platform to check out our events calendar here. Keep up to date on the latest news from We Are Power : Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram & Facebook Sign up to our newsletter.

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 inspiration for starting STEMazing- How even the smallest actions can create lasting, positive changeSign up to our Power Platform to check out our events calendar here. Keep up to date on the latest news from We Are Power : Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram & Facebook Sign up to our newsletter.

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 dynamic career path with confidence.- The role of being an ally in inclusive workplaces.Sign up to our Power Platform to check out our events calendar here. Keep up to date on the latest news from We Are Power : Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram & Facebook Sign up to our newsletter.

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 female entrepreneurs. -The life-changing impact of mentorship, peer support, and community-driven efforts-How Julie creatively balanced her career with motherhoodSign up to our Power Platform to check out our events calendar here. Keep up to date on the latest news from We Are Power : Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram & Facebook Sign up to our newsletter.

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.Listen to learn:How Alison is fighting poverty and driving economic growth in Gateshead.The urgent need to tackle staff burnout.Why support services should be available to everyone, no matter their situation.How introducing a four-day workweek turned sceptics into believers. Sign up to our Power Platform to check out our events calendar here. Keep up to date on the latest news from We Are Power : Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram & Facebook Sign up to our newsletter.

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 of being yourself - Why it's essential to keep pushing boundaries - How to celebrate your achievements and not be afraid to share your winsSign up to our Power Platform to check out our events calendar here. Keep up to date on the latest news from We Are Power : Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram & Facebook Sign up to our newsletter.

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 and advocates in creating supportive networks -  the impact of small, bold actions in growing your confidence- how to make STEM more inclusive and accessible Sign up to our Power Platform to check out our events calendar here. Keep up to date on the latest news from We Are Power : Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram & Facebook Sign up to our newsletter.

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 Gill- How Square One Law became a B-Corp- The hurdles women face in the legal profession- The importance of recognising unsung heroesSign up to our Power Platform to check out our events calendar here. Keep up to date on the latest news from We Are Power : Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram & Facebook Sign up to our newsletter.

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' mentoring programme -  the multiplier effect of mentorship -  the benefits of job sharing-  where Chloe keeps her trophy!Sign up to our Power Platform to check out our events calendar here. Keep up to date on the latest news from We Are Power : Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram & Facebook Sign up to our newsletter.

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 importance of authenticity🎙️how to address subconscious biases🎙️the impact of strong female role models🎙️how Bentley creates a inclusive workplace cultureSign up to our Power Platform to check out our events calendar here. Keep up to date on the latest news from We Are Power : Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram & Facebook Sign up to our newsletter.

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 traditional gender roles - Ways that AI can be used for the greater good.- How we can all fight gender biases and promote equality  Sign up to our Power Platform to check out our events calendar here. Keep up to date on the latest news from We Are Power : Twitter, LinkedIn, Instagram & Facebook Sign up to our newsletter.