100 Women in Insurance

This episode is sponsored by MS Reinsurance. In this episode, Sandra speaks with Maria V Amelio about what hard work really looks like, why confidence in your ability matters, and how visibility can change the course of a career. "Working hard and just saying ‘I’m so busy’ doesn’t necessarily mean you’re a good hard worker." – Maria V Amelio Maria shares the pivotal risks that shaped her journey, how she built her personal brand, and the difference between mentors who guide you and sponsors who open doors for you. She also reflects on empathy in difficult conversations and why clear career paths and incentives are essential to retaining female talent. Maria reflects on her involvement with St. Baldrick’s, a childhood cancer charity founded by reinsurance professionals, and how her personal loss made the cause deeply meaningful. She also shares how the industry’s support during that time shaped her career and her life. Takeaways The importance of having personal goals Different career paths in insurance require distinct skill sets. Taking risks can lead to significant career opportunities. Local and global companies offer different experiences, but performance is key. Personal branding influences how others perceive and interact with you. Authenticity at work means being true to yourself while remaining professional. The insurance industry faces a talent gap that needs addressing. Mentorship provides guidance, while sponsorship offers opportunities. Visibility is crucial for career advancement; hard work alone isn't enough. Difficult conversations require confidence and empathy. About the guest Connect with Maria V Amelio. About the sponsor MS Reinsurance is a global reinsurer domiciled in Switzerland with underwriting offices in Zurich, Bermuda, Miami, and New York. The Company underwrites non-life treaty reinsurance solutions on a worldwide basis through its three business units: Americas, International, and Specialty Lines. About the host Connect with Sandra Lewin on LinkedIn Sign up to ‘Coffee with Sandra’ newsletter to stay up to date on all 100 Women In Insurance and more. Join ‘The Pink Book’ Collective, private LinkedIn Group connecting women in insurance to find mentors, speaking opportunities and much more.

Summary In this episode, Sandra is joined by Crystal Riley, who entered the insurance industry by chance and has since built a successful career across underwriting, broking and claims. Crystal shares how exploring different roles helped her understand where she could thrive, and how feeling stuck prompted her to reflect on what she truly wanted from her career. She speaks openly about letting go of other people’s timelines, focusing on her strengths, and building a reputation around what she wanted to be known for. The conversation explores the power of difficult conversations and the everyday courage it takes to advocate for yourself at work. Crystal offers practical insight into how to prepare, stay grounded, and revisit conversations when they do not go to plan. She also reflects on the role of informal mentorship, the importance of self-reflection, and how learning to speak up has shaped both her professional and personal confidence. This is a story about awareness, growth and the clarity that comes from doing the work to define success on your own terms. Takeaways Exploring different roles in insurance can help you understand where you truly thrive Recognising when you feel stuck is a sign to pause and reflect Networking and mentorship are key to navigating career challenges Difficult conversations, though uncomfortable, often build trust and respect Preparation is essential for having difficult conversations It's okay to revisit conversations if they don't go as planned. Personal and professional growth often intertwine in the workplace Learning from both positive and negative experiences is valuable Confidence can be built through experiences in the industry About the guest Connect with Crystal Riley on LinkedIn About the host Connect with Sandra Lewin on LinkedIn Learn more about the 100 Women in Insurance Collective: www.100womenininsurance.com/collective

This episode is sponsored by Markel International. Summary In this episode, Sandra is joined by Sophie Forsyth and Philippa Hartrick-Morris, colleagues at Markel and this year’s riders in the Markel Magnolia Cup, the UK’s most prestigious charity horse race. Held each summer at the Qatar Goodwood Festival, this all-female amateur race celebrates women leading in business, sport, fashion and media. Their stories take us far beyond the racetrack. Sophie shares how a career in insurance led her back to horse riding after more than a decade away, while Philippa reflects on receiving the call while on maternity leave, and how training just 12 weeks after giving birth became a powerful way to rebuild strength and reconnect with herself and embrace a once-in-a-lifetime challenge. From renewal season and nursery drop-offs to four-minute planks and dawn gallops, this conversation explores what it means to say yes to something that scares you, and the transformation that follows. Sophie and Philippa are riding in support of Project Lehar, a King’s Trust International programme supporting girls in India to access education, build skills and create pathways to employment. This is a story about courage, visibility and what becomes possible when insurance creates space for women to grow. Takeaways The Markel Magnolia Cup is an all-female amateur race that has raised over £2.7 million for women’s causes since 2011. Training includes demanding fitness tests, race-day preparation and weekly riding sessions at professional yards, all balanced alongside full-time roles. Sophie and Philippa are only the second and third women from Markel ever to compete in the race. “Just say yes.” It’s the advice Sophie has followed throughout her career and one that’s led to challenge, growth and unexpected opportunities. Postpartum doesn’t have to mean pressing pause. Philippa’s journey shows how ambition and new motherhood can coexist with the right support. You don’t need experience to step forward. Both riders started from scratch, proving that courage and commitment count for more than credentials. Progress looks different for everyone. For some, it’s a promotion. For others, it’s holding a plank for four minutes and getting back in the saddle. None of it happens alone. From family to teammates, support made all the difference, especially on the hardest days. A career in insurance can open doors to extraordinary and unexpected places. About the guests Connect with Sophie Forsyth on LinkedIn Connect with Philippa Hartrick-Morris on LinkedIn Resources Donate to the riders’ JustGiving page Explore the 2025 Magnolia Cup lineup and cause Follow Markel International on LinkedIn and Instagram for race day coverage About the host Connect with Sandra Lewin on LinkedIn Learn more about the 100 Women in Insurance Collective: www.100womenininsurance.com/collective

This episode is sponsored by RPC. Summary In this live recording from event at RPC FIG Network, Sandra is joined by Sam Tymms for a powerful and honest conversation about what it really means to own your career. Sam shares reflections from a career spanning regulation, advisory and governance, and speaks openly about the common traps women fall into when it comes to progression. Too often, women wait to be tapped on the shoulder, rely on their employer to plot the next step, or assume success will be recognised without saying a word. Together, Sandra and Sam explore how career ownership starts with self-awareness, clarity and courage. From navigating networking with curiosity, to preparing for non-executive roles, this episode unpacks what it takes to get boardroom-ready and why authenticity and failure are essential parts of leadership. The conversation also dives into the evolving nature of diversity and inclusion in financial services, and how regulation, unconscious bias and cultural expectations continue to shape the experience of women in the industry. Whether you're just starting out, pivoting mid-career or stepping up into leadership, this episode is a reminder that you are your own best advocate, and that sisterhood, celebration and support go a long way. Takeaways Women often don't do enough to own their career Outsourcing your career management can hinder progress Success looks and feels different at every stage, and that’s OK Networking works best when you lead with curiosity Sisterhood is about support and empowerment Non-executive roles can provide valuable experience Know your value and be ready to articulate it in board setting Diversity and inclusion discussions are evolving Networking can be less intimidating with the right mindset Career ownership is essential for professional growth. Diversity and inclusion are ongoing challenges in financial services Regulatory interviews often lack awareness of gender dynamics Future leaders must be tech-savvy and self-aware Authenticity is crucial in leadership; accept your strengths and weaknesses Failure is a natural part of career growth Recognising personal value is essential for career advancement Cultural perceptions can influence women's career choices Self-doubt can create barriers to success Owning your career means challenging societal expectations Celebrating achievements fosters a supportive professional community About the Guest Connect with Sam Tymms on LinkedIn About the host Connect with Sandra Lewin on LinkedIn Learn more about the 100 Women in Insurance Collective: www.100womenininsurance.com/collective

Summary In this episode, Sandra is joined by Cristina Galindo for a thoughtful conversation on career transitions, sustainability, and the changing world of work. Cristina shares her journey from a career in HR across financial services and tech to her current focus on sustainability and talent. She reflects on the benefits and challenges of moving abroad, the realities of career breaks, and the importance of embracing change at any age or stage. From the rise of sustainability roles in insurance to the need for organisations to retain knowledge as professionals approach retirement, Cristina brings fresh insight into how careers, and workplaces, are evolving. Together, Sandra and Cristina explore the concept of the “empty box,” a space for reflection and reinvention, and discuss why transferable skills, introspection, and storytelling are essential in today’s job market. They also tackle the shifting language of CVs, how to balance legal compliance with company culture, and why kindness and performance are not mutually exclusive. This episode is packed with practical advice and quiet encouragement, for anyone navigating change, rethinking their purpose, or creating more human-centred ways of working. Takeaways It's never too late to change careers or pursue new opportunities Moving abroad can be a great learning opportunity but comes with challenges The traditional linear career path is becoming less common Career breaks can develop leadership, negotiation and project management skills The "empty box" is a space to pause, reflect and explore new directions before taking your next step CVs need to evolve to focus on skills, strengths and stories, not just job titles Introspection helps you reconnect with your values and design a career that fits with your authentic self The job market is changing rapidly, with sustainability roles expanding across insurance and beyond People are living and working longer, but many organisations are not prepared for longer careers Knowledge retention is a growing challenge as senior professionals retire without transition plans Equal and inclusive parental leave policies send a powerful message about what a company values Kindness and high performance can coexist Creating human-centered workplaces enhances employee loyalty About the guest Connect with Cristina on LinkedIn About the host Connect with Sandra Lewin on LinkedIn Learn more about the 100 Women in Insurance Collective: www.100womenininsurance.com/collective

This episode is sponsored by the Chartered Insurance Institute (CII). Summary In this episode, Sandra is joined by Vanessa Riboloni, Professional Capabilities and Insight Manager at the Chartered Insurance Institute (CII), for a conversation about visibility, growth, and the story behind the CII Professional Map. Vanessa shares how she found her way into insurance by chance. A researcher at heart who followed her curiosity rather than a fixed plan. Vanessa reflects on how she built a meaningful career by leaning into learning, taking calculated risks, and staying open to where her skills were needed. As someone who doesn’t naturally seek the spotlight, Vanessa speaks candidly about visibility in the workplace, and the realisation that competence isn’t always enough. She offers practical reflections on how to become your own PR manager, especially in a hybrid environment where it’s easy to go unnoticed if you don’t actively show up. The episode centres on the CII Professional Map, a free, open-access tool designed to help individuals, line managers and teams reflect on development needs and define what “good” looks like at every stage of an insurance career. Vanessa walks us through how the map was built, from field research and behavioural interviews to user testing and team workshops, and shares how it’s being updated to reflect evolving expectations around skills, sustainability and AI. Whether you’re navigating your next move, supporting others as a manager, or returning to work after time away, this episode is a practical guide to making growth feel possible, even when you’re not sure where to start. Takeaways You don’t need a fixed plan to build a fulfilling career, sometimes the path reveals itself along the way Curiosity is a powerful driver of growth, learning and connection Visibility matters, being good at your job isn’t always enough if people don’t see your impact If you’re more introverted or focused on delivery, you may need to be more intentional about showing your value The Professional Map is a free tool designed to support career development at every level It’s useful for return-to-work planning, confidence building, interview preparation and team reviews, are all things that the Professional Map can help with About the guest Connect with Vanessa Riboloni on LinkedIn About the host Connect with Sandra Lewin on LinkedIn Learn more about the 100 Women in Insurance Collective: www.100womenininsurance.com/collective Resource  Explore the CII Professional Map

This episode is sponsored by Full Circle Communications. ⚠️ Content note This episode includes open reflections on mental health, including anxiety, depression, and stress leave. Sandra and Kirsty speak from personal experience and are not medical or mental health professionals. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms discussed, please contact your GP or reach out to a trusted mental health organisation such as My Black Dog, Mind, or BetterHelp. Summary In this episode, Sandra is joined by Kirsty, Executive Director at Full Circle Communications, for a powerful and personal conversation about PR, mental health, and building confidence on LinkedIn. Kirsty shares her insurance journey shaped by curiosity, a love for writing, relationship-building, and storytelling, which helped her carve out a meaningful career in PR and communications. She talks about finding her voice through storytelling, challenging the myth that insurance is ‘boring,’ and why every business (and person) has a story worth telling. She speaks candidly about living with anxiety, taking time off for stress, and the real emotions tied to returning to work. Kirsty offers reflections on the importance of leadership support and the role psychological safety plays in cultivating better workplaces. The conversation also explores how to navigate LinkedIn with intention. From overcoming visibility blocks to showing up authentically, Kirsty shares practical guidance for anyone wanting to grow their presence online, without the pressure to overshare or perform. This is a thoughtful, insightful, and honest episode about finding your pace, owning your story, and leading with care. Takeaways Insurance careers can evolve in unexpected and fulfilling ways PR is about building relationships and sharing stories, not just crisis management Every business in insurance has a story worth telling Mental health is an integral part of an employee's overall wellbeing and performance Supportive management can significantly impact an employee's mental health journey There is a stigma around mental health that needs to be addressed in workplaces Taking time off for mental health should not be seen as a weakness Open conversations about mental health can help reduce stigma and promote healing Returning to work after a break can be less daunting than expected LinkedIn is a powerful tool for professional networking Authenticity is key in social media engagement Avoid posting overly personal content on professional platforms Start slow with social media engagement and build confidence Resources: If you are experiencing any of the symptoms discussed, please contact your GP or reach out to a trusted mental health organisation such as My Black Dog, Mind, or BetterHelp. About the guest Connect with Kirsty on LinkedIn. About the Host Connect with Sandra on LinkedIn and explore more insights: Sandra’s LinkedIn Discover the 100 Women In Insurance Collective dedicated to connecting women in insurance: www.100womenininsurance.com/collective.

Grab a 'Coffee with Sandra' on a fortnightly basis by signing up for her fortnightly newsletter and staying up to date on all 100WII news, Sandra's behind-the-scenes and gender equality matters. Sign up here. ------------------------------------------- Summary In this episode of 100 Women in Insurance, Sandra sits down with Suzy Berry, Sales Director, for a wide-ranging conversation on self-belief, shifting definitions of success, and the realities of juggling career and motherhood. Having entered insurance by chance after raising her children, Suzy shares how she carved out a fulfilling career path, first by saying yes to opportunity, then by taking control of her narrative. From becoming a single mother mid-career to leading in a high-performing sales role, Suzy speaks candidly about the myths we hold around working parents, networking, and what it really means to “do it all.” The conversation also challenges common assumptions about sales. Suzy reframes it as problem-solving with purpose, built on trust, credibility and honesty. Whether you’re a parent, in sales, or simply navigating the next step in your career, this one is packed with relatable insights. Takeaways Careers often evolve from unexpected beginnings. Embrace the chance moments Becoming a single mother can shift your perspective on career and success Progression often comes from being seen, showing up and doing the work Balancing work and family is possible, but it doesn’t mean giving 100% to everything Sales isn’t about selling. It’s about solving problems and building trust Knowing your worth helps you say yes to the right things Being honest, with yourself and others, leads to better outcomes You can be a present parent and still pursue a fulfilling career Networking doesn’t have to be intimidating. Start with simple, human connection Believing in yourself helps you grow in the right direction Travel and career exposure can open unexpected doors About the guest Connect with Suzy on LinkedIn. About the Host Connect with Sandra on LinkedIn and explore more insights: Sandra’s LinkedIn Discover the 100 Women In Insurance Collective dedicated to connecting women in insurance: www.100womenininsurance.com/collective.

Grab a 'Coffee with Sandra' on a fortnightly basis by signing up for her fortnightly newsletter and staying up to date on all 100WII news, Sandra's behind-the-scenes and gender equality matters.Sign up here. ------------------------------------------- Summary In this conversation, Sandra is joined by the inspiring, honest and fun insurance leader Donna Scully who shares her journey into the insurance, emphasising the importance of continuing learning. Donna shows that is it possible to be both professional and friendly leader. What is more, she also shows that it is possible to create a company where flexible working comes in many shapes and forms, whilst continuing to drive a positive outcome for both business and employees. She dispels common myths surrounding women in leadership roles and emphasizes the value of experience in the workforce, advocating for a supportive environment that recognizes the contributions of all employees. In this conversation, Donna Scully and Sandra discuss the multifaceted challenges and opportunities women face in the workplace, particularly in leadership roles. Donna highlights the significance of mentorship, especially when it comes to learning from the younger generations, while also addressing the challenges of leadership, particularly for women. The discussion also touches on the significance of work-life balance, the impact of family on career progression, and the need for flexible work environments. They emphasize the power of intentional diversity initiatives and the importance of being open-minded in creating a more equitable workplace. Finally, they reflect on personal growth and the influence of role models in shaping their careers. Takeaways Courage is needed for the days when it goes wrong. Continuous learning is essential for personal growth. Technology should enhance, not replace human interaction. Be yourself and don't conform to societal molds. Women in leadership should embrace their true selves. Bridging the leadership gap requires both men and women to step up. Inclusivity and diversity should be at the forefront of business practices. Networking and mentorship play a vital role in women's career advancement. Work-life balance is a significant challenge for many women. Flexible work environments can help retain talent and support families. About the guest Connect with Donna on LinkedIn. About the Host Connect with Sandra on LinkedIn and explore more insights: Sandra’s LinkedIn Discover the 100 Women In Insurance Collective dedicated to connecting women in insurance: www.100womenininsurance.com/collective.

Grab a 'Coffee with Sandra' on a fortnightly basis by signing up for her fortnightly newsletter and staying up to date on all 100WII news, Sandra's behind-the-scenes and gender equality matters.Sign up here. ------------------------------------------- Summary Note: The founder’s voice in this episode has been altered to protect their identity. In this powerful and insightful episode, Sandra sits down with the founder of the widely followed Instagram account @insurancewomen—a platform now inspiring over 15k followers. This isn’t a “complain and point fingers” conversation. Instead, it’s a deeply insightful look into what’s really happening in the industry and how we can practically come together—men and women alike—to build a better, more inclusive environment for current and future generations. Key takeaways: The origin story behind the Insurance Women account and the purpose that fuels it Why anonymity matters—and what it reveals about the industry culture Misconceptions about the account and why it’s not about blame Real-life stories and observations from the community A practical call to collaboration: how men and women can work together, not in opposition What the founder wants every insurance professional to reflect on—regardless of their gender or seniority This is a rare behind-the-scenes look at a platform that’s become a powerful voice in insurance. It’s an honest, and constructive conversation that goes beyond surface-level discussions. Whether you’re early in your career or leading teams, this episode will inspire you to think differently about inclusion, leadership, and shared accountability in the industry. About the guest Follow InsuranceWomen on Instagram. About the Host Connect with Sandra on LinkedIn and explore more insights: Sandra’s LinkedIn Discover the 100 Women In Insurance Collective dedicated to connecting women in insurance: www.100womenininsurance.com/collective.

Grab a 'Coffee with Sandra' on a fortnightly basis by signing up for her fortnightly newsletter and staying up to date on all 100WII news, Sandra's behind-the-scenes and gender equality matters.Sign up here. ------------------------------------------- Summary In this episode, Sheila Cameron shares her journey in insurance, discussing her career path, the importance of mentorship, and the challenges of work-life balance. She emphasizes the need for clear boundaries and flexibility in the workplace, particularly for parents. Sheila also addresses the issue of diversity in leadership roles and shares insights and statistics on the progress made so far vs work yet to be done. This is a very honest conversation about leadership and diversity, giving incredible insights into what intentional leadership means for gender equality. She emphasizes the need for leaders to create supportive environments for women, particularly during career dips and maternity. Sheila and Sandra share practical and simple tips on how to create impactful change in your organisation to attract and retain diverse talent. Ahead of Mother’s Day, Sheila ends the episode with a personal story, shared first time in the public domain, which may bring a tear to your eye, whilst also making you smile. This is both an insightful and personal episode that is worth adding to your podcast playlist. Takeaways Leadership programs should focus on systemic change rather than fixing women. Retention during career dips is vital for long-term success. Recognizing weaknesses in leadership is a strength, not a flaw. Paternity leave should be normalized and equally valued as maternity leave. The journey towards equality in leadership roles is ongoing. Leadership intent is crucial for fostering diversity and inclusion. Being a parent can enhance leadership qualities and perspectives. Setting clear boundaries and transparency are key aspects of making work-life balance a success Women are present in the talent pool but often not considered or attracted to the leadership roles. Kindness and high performance can coexist in effective leadership. A mindset shift is necessary to embrace both motherhood and career aspirations. About the guest Connect with Sheila Cameron. About the Host Connect with Sandra on LinkedIn and explore more insights: Sandra’s LinkedIn Discover the 100 Women In Insurance Collective dedicated to connecting women in insurance: www.100womenininsurance.com/collective.

Grab a 'Coffee with Sandra' on a fortnightly basis by signing up for her fortnightly newsletter and staying up to date on all 100WII news, Sandra's behind-the-scenes and gender equality matters.Sign up here. ------------------------------------------- Summary In this episode, Gillie Fairbrother shares her journey into insurance, from the creative industry, via yoga teacher around the world, to the ESG role in insurance. Gillie shares the skills required to work in ESG and career opportunities that come with it. Having travelled across the world teaching yoga, as well as building her own business, Gillie shares her top tips on building a network, increasing confidence in public speaking and being your true self at work (including pink hair at work post Glastonbury festival). This episode is great for any one doubting they can pivot their career, find their niche and enjoy what they do, whilst navigating passions and side hustles outside of work. Takeaways Public speaking skills can be developed through practice and genuine interest in the audience. Breathing techniques can help manage stress and improve focus. Every career journey is unique and can lead to unexpected opportunities. Making a difference in the industry requires a receptive leadership and a commitment to change. Imposter syndrome is a common experience, but it can be managed. Authenticity in the workplace fosters better relationships and engagement. Balancing personal passions with corporate responsibilities is essential for well-being. Networking is crucial for career growth and opportunities. About the guest Connect with Gillie Fairbrother. Join Gillie at her next Sound Bath event. About the Host Connect with Sandra on LinkedIn and explore more insights: Sandra’s LinkedIn Discover the 100 Women In Insurance Collective dedicated to connecting women in insurance: www.100womenininsurance.com/collective.

Grab a 'Coffee with Sandra' on a fortnightly basis by signing up for her fortnightly newsletter and staying up to date on all 100WII news, Sandra's behind-the-scenes and gender equality matters.Sign up here. ------------------------------------------- Summary In this episode Sandra interviews Romany O'Malley, discussing her journey from a corporate career to the startup world. Romany shares insights on the importance of technology in insurance, the skills required for a CFO, and the realities of working in a startup environment. The conversation emphasizes the need for self-reflection in career progression, the significance of understanding job expectations, and the importance of asking the right questions during interviews. In this conversation, Romany and Sandra discuss the intricacies of the interview process, emphasizing the importance of mutual evaluation between candidates and employers. They explore the significance of flexibility in the workplace, particularly in the context of remote work and its impact on training and networking. The discussion also highlights the value of mentorship and the non-linear nature of career growth, especially in the insurance industry, where diverse experiences can lead to unexpected opportunities. Takeaways Transitioning from corporate to startup requires adaptability and quick decision-making. A CFO's role is not just about numbers but also about strategic leadership. Understanding the reality of a job is essential before making a career move. Startup culture demands speed and flexibility in decision-making. Being honest with yourself about your career goals can save frustration. Defining success in your role is key to thriving in a company. Use interview time for questions that matter. Flexibility in work can enhance productivity. Mentorship is crucial for career navigation. About the guest Connect with Romaney O’Malley About the Host Connect with Sandra on LinkedIn and explore more insights: Sandra’s LinkedIn Discover the 100 Women In Insurance Collective dedicated to connecting women in insurance: www.100womenininsurance.com/collective.

Grab a 'Coffee with Sandra' on a fortnightly basis by signing up for her fortnightly newsletter and staying up to date on all 100WII news, Sandra's behind-the-scenes and gender equality matters.Sign up here. ------------------------------------------- Summary In this episode, host Sandra is in conversation with the amazing Katie Brickell. Katie openly shares her story of navigating a succesful career, cancer and parenthood. In every section of this episode, Katie shares practical insights and tips on how to: turn sales negative connotation into a positive and useful skill in every aspect of our life make equal parental leave a success in every company and team create an inclusive space for returners to work build an impactful Employee Resource Group (ERG) develop a network that is full of support and opportunity, including sharing opportunities with others Among this, Katie also shares her personal story of overcoming cervical cancer and how it shaped her perspective on work and life. She highlights the success of the Parental Buddy Network, that recently launched at Howden. Ultimately, the conversation underscores the importance of people in the business world and the connections that can be formed through shared experiences. About the Guest Connect with Katie Brickell. About the Host Connect with Sandra on LinkedIn and explore more insights: Sandra’s LinkedIn Discover the 100 Women In Insurance Collective dedicated to connecting women in insurance: www.100womenininsurance.com/collective.

Grab a 'Coffee with Sandra' on a fortnightly basis by signing up for her fortnightly newsletter and staying up to date on all 100WII news, Sandra's behind-the-scenes and gender equality matters. Sign up here.  -------------------------------------------- In this episode host Sandra speaks with Kate Albert about her journey in the insurance industry and her transition from corporate into a business owner. They talk about the importance of networking and tips on how to get started. Kate shares her insights on hard work, visibility, and the challenges of navigating hybrid work environments. She also shares her vision for creating supportive work environments and her aspirations for growth in the insurance industry, advocating for collaboration over competition. Kate is a fellow endometriosis warrior and openly shares her experience of living with endometriosis and working. Kate discusses her experiences with endometriosis and its impact on her career, emphasizing the importance of flexible work arrangements and supportive workplace policies for women's health. She highlights the need for open dialogue about women's health issues and the significance of diversity and gender balance in the workplace. Takeaways Hard work and visibility are crucial for career advancement. Building a supportive network can significantly impact one's career. Creating an inclusive culture requires open communication and listening to team members. Hybrid working offers flexibility but requires clear expectations from leadership. Endometriosis can significantly affect career choices and workplace experiences. Mentorship is a two-way street that requires commitment from both parties. Flexible work arrangements are crucial for managing chronic health issues. There is a stigma around women's health that needs to be addressed. Workplace policies should support women's health and well-being. Diversity in the workplace should focus on merit and hard work, not quotas. Collaboration among companies can lead to better growth opportunities. About the guest Follow Kate on LinkedIn. About the Host Connect with Sandra on LinkedIn and explore more insights: Sandra’s LinkedIn Discover the 100 Women In Insurance Collective dedicated to connecting women in insurance: www.100womenininsurance.com/collective.

In this episode Karen Hogg shares her inspiring journey from starting in the insurance industry as a 16 years old, to becoming the Chief Operations Officer at Freedom Group, which includes Stella Insurance - Insurance Company that offers car insurance that is passionately pro-women. Karen discusses the importance of self-awareness, the value of diverse roles within the insurance sector, and how being proactive and visible can significantly impact one's career. Karen also emphasizes the importance of coaching, networking, and the ability to embrace one's true self in a professional environment. In this conversation, Karen Hogg shares her insights on the importance of building a supportive network, navigating career challenges, and the evolving landscape for women in the workforce. She emphasizes the significance of female connections and mentorship. Karen also discusses innovative approaches to knowledge sharing within remote organizations and reflects on her unique experiences in the industry, highlighting the value of community and collaboration. Takeaways It is possible to work your way up from mailroom to Boardroom. Advice and feedback should be filtered based on the source. Proactive involvement in projects enhances career opportunities and visibility, which is crucial for career advancement. Networking is essential for career growth and support. Embracing one's true self leads to greater confidence and success. Building relationships and trust is crucial for career success. High autonomy in the workplace fosters individual success. Female networks provide essential support and normalization of experiences. Creating social experiences strengthens professional networks. The talent pool for women is improving, but challenges remain. Innovative knowledge-sharing systems can bridge talent gaps. About the guest Connect with Karren Hogg About the Host Connect with Sandra on LinkedIn and explore more insights: Sandra’s LinkedIn Discover the 100 Women In Insurance Collective dedicated to connecting women in insurance: www.100womenininsurance.com/collective.

This episode is sponsored by Apollo.  Summary In this episode, Sandra is joined by Eleana and Natalie, as they discuss the challenges about promoting insurance as a career choice, the role of AI in our careers and predicting what the industry will be like in 2045. The conversation continues to also reflect on the importance of flexibility, transparency, gender equality, and a human-centric approach in the evolving workplace. Eleana and Natalie explore the challenges young women and girls face in STEM fields and highlight the importance of creating equal opportunities at the early stages. The conversation ends on a hopeful note, envisioning a more inclusive and dynamic future in insurance by 2045. Takeaways STEM education still faces gender stereotypes, affecting women's participation in technical fields. Cultural and language barriers can impact career development, especially for those moving to new countries. AI is seen as both a threat and an opportunity, with the potential to change job roles in the future. The future of work may involve more flexibility and remote collaboration through technology like VR. Leadership in the future will require transparency, ethical considerations, and emotional intelligence. Gender equality in the workplace is still a challenge, with pay transparency being a significant issue. The guests reflect on their personal experiences and the importance of representation in the industry. About the guests Connect with Natalie Stephens Connect with Eleana Sklaveniti About the Host Connect with Sandra on LinkedIn and explore more insights: Sandra’s LinkedIn Discover the 100 Women In Insurance Collective dedicated to connecting women in insurance: www.100womenininsurance.com/collective.

Join our fortnightly newsletter to stay up to date on all 100 Women In Insurance.  Summary In this episode of the 100 Women in Insurance podcast, Sandra and Tope Akindoyin discuss Tope's journey into the insurance industry, her career in compliance and regulatory affairs, and her insights on success and motivation. They explore the importance of understanding personal skills, the value of small steps towards achieving goals, and the significance of sharing stories to foster connection and understanding in the workplace. In this conversation, Sandra discusses the importance of bringing one's authentic self to work, navigating identity in professional spaces, and understanding the complexities of intersectionality and diversity. Tope emphasizes the value of relationships in career growth and the need for emotional intelligence in interactions. Sandra and Tope share their personal anecdotes and insights on how to foster connections and create an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive. Takeaways Success is personal and varies for each individual. Success is not just about reaching a destination, but the journey itself. Small steps lead to big changes in career progression. Understanding your motivations is key to personal success. Don't underestimate the skills that come easily to you. Listening to others' stories can change perceptions and foster empathy. Team dynamics improve when individual motivations are understood. You don't need to share everything about yourself at work. Intersectionality is crucial in understanding diverse identities. Actively listening can improve workplace relationships. Connect with Tope on LinkedIn. About the Host Connect with Sandra on LinkedIn and explore more insights: Sandra’s LinkedIn Discover the 100 Women In Insurance Collective dedicated to connecting women in insurance: www.100womenininsurance.com/collective.

Summary In this episode of the 100 Women in Insurance podcast, host Sandra is joined by Michelle Ansell, an executive search and recruitment consultancy. They discuss the evolution of sales styles, the different types of recruiters and the importance of networking. Michelle shares insights on common myths in recruitment and emphasizes the need for women to build relationships with recruiters to enhance their career opportunities. In this conversation, Michelle and Sandra discuss the complexities of recruitment and missed opportunity for organisations to look beyond a job description when thinking of recruitment. Michelle shares practical tips for candidates on how to effectively engage with recruiters, develop your pitch and build meaningful professional relationships. Takeaways LinkedIn is a powerful tool for networking. Career paths can pivot unexpectedly, leading to new opportunities. Sales styles have evolved from hard selling to relationship building. Recruiters are not just job finders; they are relationship builders. Engaging with recruiters should be a continuous effort, not just when seeking a job. Trust is a significant barrier for women in recruitment. Recruiters and candidates can find mutual benefits in their interactions. Understanding the difference between recruitment and headhunting is crucial. Retention strategies are often overlooked in recruitment processes About the Guest: Connect with Michelle Ansell on LinkedIn. About the Host: Connect with Sandra on LinkedIn and explore more insights: Sandra’s LinkedIn Discover the 100 Women In Insurance Collective dedicated to connecting women in insurance: www.100womenininsurance.com/collective.

Summary In this episode of 100 Women in Insurance, Sandra interviews Ingrid Woodward, who shares her journey from the insurance industry to becoming a coach and healer. Ingrid discusses her experiences with self-doubt, the importance of spirituality in the corporate world, and how she transitioned from a successful corporate career to follow her passion for helping others. She emphasizes the significance of mental health, the challenges of self-sabotage, and the transformative power of connecting with one's true purpose. Ingrid emphasizes the importance of embracing one's shadows, authenticity, and values in both personal and professional life. She also explores the integration of spirituality and the chakra system in the workplace, highlighting how energy flow impacts business dynamics. The discussion culminates in her approach to working with individuals and organizations to foster growth and healing. Takeaways Spirituality can coexist with corporate life. Personal power is about aligning with one's values. Career paths can be non-linear and filled with opportunities. Mental health is crucial in making career decisions. Self-sabotage is a common challenge for many professionals. Transitioning to a new career requires courage and self-trust. Coaching can address root causes of personal challenges. Perfectionism can lead to mistakes and self-doubt. Loving your shadows can lead to greater self-acceptance. The chakra system can influence workplace dynamics. Businesses are living entities that require healthy energy flow. Reference Akashai records Ingrid website and LinkedIn Free Webinar “The High Achiever’s Dilemma” Book Existential Kink Throat Chakra at work About the guest Connect with Ingrid Woodward on LinkedIn and on Instagram. About the host Connect with Sandra on LinkedIn and explore more insights: Sandra’s LinkedIn Discover the 100 Women In Insurance Collective dedicated to connecting women in insurance: www.100womenininsurance.com/collective.