The Comic Coach Podcast

This episode features the delightful Dr. Fiona Lovely making her second appearance on the podcast! Join Em and Fiona as they dive into an incredibly honest and thought-provoking conversation about life, death, and finding peace in a chaotic world. Dr. Fiona shares insights from a recent personal health scare that reshaped her perspective, and they explore practical ways to reduce daily clutter – both physical and mental – for a more joyful existence. Get ready for some laughs, profound wisdom, and a much-needed reminder to slow down and breathe. Relevant Links: Dr. Fiona Lovely's Website: DrLovely.com Not Your Mother's Menopause Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/not-your-mothers-menopause-with-dr-fiona-lovely/id1097326296 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drfionalovely/ TikTok: https://www.instagram.com/drfionalovely/ Em Stroud's YouTube Channel: @TheComicCoach Insight Timer Meditation App: https://insighttimer.com/ About Dr. Fiona Lovely: Dr. Fiona Lovely is an expert of women's health at the menopause transition, the creator and host of the popular Not Your Mother's Menopause podcast and senior clinician. Her work is to see women where they are and offer wisdom and guidance through the lens of functional medicine, functional neurology and restorative endocrinology.

We delve into the inspiring world of Dr. Narisa Chauvidul-Aw, a trailblazer in FinTech and a passionate advocate for humanitarian causes. Join us as she shares profound insights on what drives her, from the enduring impact of her mother's kindness to her unwavering commitment to serving others. Discover her unique approach to maintaining motivation amidst challenges and how she finds joy and rejuvenation through travel and unexpected hobbies. This episode offers a refreshing perspective on balancing professional ambition with personal well-being and making a tangible difference in the world. Episode Links Dr. Narisa Chauvidul-Aw on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/drnarisa/ KogoPAY: https://www.kogopay.com/ KogoX: https://www.kogox.com/ Em Stroud's Tour Dates: www.emstroud.com/tour About Narisa: Narisa is the Founder and CEO of a fintech company and co-founder of an AI company. A PhD graduate (2003) from the London School of Economics, she has over 20 years of experience in finance, technology, and entrepreneurship, and is an advocate for women in tech and leadership. After spending time as a short-term missionary helping the homeless and orphaned, her long-term mission is to use her business success to create greater social impact, especially in underserved communities.

In this episode of the Comic Coach Podcast, Em Stroud engages in a heartfelt chat with Leigh about the importance of rewriting personal narratives, the influence of grandmothers, and the need for self-care. They discuss the societal pressures faced by mothers, the significance of play in adulthood, and the journey towards authenticity. Leigh shares her experiences as a mother of triplets and the challenges of navigating societal expectations, while Em emphasises the importance of prioritising oneself and embracing individuality. Together, they inspire listeners to challenge norms, embrace their true selves, and create a supportive community for diverse motherhood experiences. Follow Leila Green: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tripped_up_mama/  LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/leilagreen/ About Leila: Leila Green is a triplet mama, founder of the F*** Mum Guilt movement, and co-author of a new motherhood book with Stacey Dooley. Her bold takes on mum guilt and mindset have earned her regular media coverage from Sky News to Stylist Magazine - and there's a TEDx coming soon. She's on a mission to help mums ditch the guilt.

Join Em and guest Abigail Wilmore, founder of People Flow, for a conversation packed with warmth and wisdom. Abigail shares why she created a community for HR professionals who are often burnt-out from caring for others . They also explore a moving redefinition of motherhood , the surprising ways adults play , and why self-care and boundaries are crucial, especially for self-confessed 'people pleasers'. Links Abigail Wilmore on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/abigailwilmore People Flow Website: https://www.wearepeopleflow.com People Flow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wearepeopleflow/  About Abigail Wilmore Abigail Wilmore is an accomplished HR leader with over 25 years of experience in luxury fashion and beauty, including roles as Chief People Officer at Tom Ford Fashion, Stella McCartney, and Dr Barbara Sturm, as well as HR Director at Kering (formerly Gucci Group). Starting her career on the shop floor, she discovered her passion for Human Resources early on and has since become a champion of human-centred workplace cultures. As the Founder of People Flow and a Chartered Fellow of the CIPD, Abigail is dedicated to leading with empathy and driving positive change in the workplace. She is also a triple-accredited Executive Coach and a sought-after speaker who advocates for diversity, inclusion, and sustainable people strategies.  

In this engaging conversation, Em Stroud and Alain Bertallo explore the dynamics of generational perspectives, the impact of personal experiences, and the importance of motivation in professional life. They discuss the role of play, standing up for values, and the significance of self-care and balance in a demanding world. Alain shares insights from his life and work, emphasizing the need for positivity and understanding in both personal and professional contexts. Follow Alain: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alain-bertallo-a78aa93 About Alain Bertallo: Alain is a social anthropologist, interested in people, their interactions with each other and their  embedment in organisations. He loves to contribute to the development of people, organisations and corporate cultures, allowing people to be the very best version of themselves in an environment that allows them to performing at their very best. He is a father of three children, an outdoor enthusiast and loves to explore in many directions and a broad variety of subjects.  

In this episode of the Comic Coach Podcast, Em engages in a deep conversation with Christoph Williams, exploring themes of listening, personal growth, motivation, and the importance of self-care. Christoph shares insights from his life experiences, including impactful relationships and the significance of state management in both personal and professional settings. The discussion also touches on the challenges of customer service in the age of AI and the need for a more empathetic approach to communication. Throughout the conversation, the importance of understanding commonalities among individuals is emphasized, highlighting the potential for constructive dialogue and collaboration. Follow Christoph: LinkedIN: http://www.linkedin.com/in/christophwilliams1/ About Christoph Williams: Christoph Williams is a seasoned HR professional and Chartered Occupational Psychologist with a deep fascination for human behavior across all contexts. As a dedicated Dad and partner, he brings a grounded perspective to his passion for challenging conventional thinking and exploring the nuances of our species through insightful experiments. He also possesses a unique (and often humorous) talent for uncovering the hidden limitations of technology and established processes!    

Em Stroud welcomes the fabulous Karen Seth to the Comic Coach podcast for a delightful chat filled with laughter (and a bit about cheese and dogs!). Karen shares her inspiring journey, discussing the strong women who shaped her, the importance of adding value and giving back, and her passion for the work she does. Discover how being brave, embracing change, and finding joy in everyday moments can lead to a fulfilling life. Plus, Karen offers insights into her love for the Peak District, the joy of volunteering, and the simple pleasures that keep her grounded. Follow Karen: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/karen_seth40139/ LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/karen-seth-fcipd-89406514 Twitter: https://x.com/KMS40139/ About Karen Seth: Karen Seth is an experienced commercial HR Director adept at navigating complex business environments. Proven skills in negotiation, industrial and employee relations, interviewing, succession planning, organizational development, mediation, and recruiting. Karen also brings NED experience as both a board member and trustee. Outside of her professional life, Karen enjoys an active outdoor lifestyle as a dog mum to two Labradors, and finds balance through yoga, pilates, and swimming.

Join Em Stroud as she chats with the splendid Melissa Dinwiddie, a creativity instigator from California's Silicon Valley. Melissa shares her journey from a creative background to working with tech companies, discussing the importance of connection, communication, and creativity. They delve into the impact of Melissa's parents on her life, her passion for unlocking creativity in others, and her many playful pursuits, from music to improvisation. Melissa also talks about her decision to embrace speaking as a core part of her business and her inspiring work to galvanise her community. Follow Melissa: Website: https://www.melissadinwiddie.com/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/melissadinwiddie/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MelissaDinwiddie Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/a_creative_life/ Special Offer (Impact Innovation Checklist): https://bit.ly/comiccoachthankyou About Melissa: Melissa Dinwiddie helps leaders and teams turn the "impossible" into reality. A Juilliard-trained dancer, professional artist for 15 years, jazz singer-songwriter, and performing improviser, Melissa blends creativity, communication, and connection to drive innovation at companies like Google, Meta, and Salesforce. She's the author of The Creative Sandbox Way™ and a keynote speaker known for designing engaging, playful experiences that unlock creativity and foster collaboration. Get in touch with Em Stroud: http://www.emstroud.com https://www.linkedin.com/in/em-stroud/ https://www.instagram.com/emrstroud/ https://www.facebook.com/emmastroudldn/

In this episode of the Comic Coach podcast, Em Stroud discusses the concept of possibility and how it can impact our lives. Drawing inspiration from her lifelong support of Newcastle United, who recently won a cup after a long drought, she emphasizes the importance of hope and believing in what is possible. Em shares her own journey of starting new projects, including the Leadership Impact School and her upcoming book, while encouraging listeners to explore their own possibilities and embrace change. She highlights the need for consistency and a positive mindset to turn possibilities into reality, urging everyone to take time to reflect on their goals and aspirations. Links: Leadership Impact School: https://theleadershipimpactschool.com/ Em Stroud's Website: https://emstroud.com/ Insta: https://www.instagram.com/emrstroud/ FB: https://www.facebook.com/emmastroudldn/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/em-stroud/

Em Stroud chats with Juls Abernethy, clinical hypnotherapist and women's wellness coach, about the transformative power of play and retreats. Juls shares her personal journey, including a recent health challenge that led her to embrace a slower pace of life. Discover the 12 ways adults play, why prioritizing play is crucial for well-being, and how retreats can help you reconnect with yourself. Plus, hear Juls's inspiring take on Jane Fonda's recent activism and the importance of standing up for what you believe in. Relevant Links: The Body Retreat: https://www.instagram.com/julsthebodyretreat/ https://www.facebook.com/thebodyretreat https://www.linkedin.com/company/thebodyretreat/ https://www.youtube.com/user/brealybootcamps Conscious Cooking Blog: https://www.thebodyretreat.co.uk/conscious-cooking-blog Jane Fonda's speech at the SAG Awards: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Z_v0NJ8_8ps About Juls Abernethy: Before co-founding The Body Retreat, Juls enjoyed (or perhaps endured!) a long and varied career spanning three decades. Her experiences included dental nursing, retail, hospitality, and HR before burnout led to a three-month stay at a private psychiatric hospital. This stay ultimately ended her corporate career, but it also marked the beginning of her true life's work. Now a clinical hypnotherapist and women's wellness coach, Juls is on a mission to help other busy women understand how to look after themselves. When not working on retreats, she loves to be outdoors, walking, cycling, and especially cold-water swimming, of which she is an enthusiastic advocate.

Em Stroud shares three simple yet powerful changes that have significantly impacted her life in early 2025. These include a minimalist phone app, a return to a personalised nutrition program, and a focus on establishing healthier boundaries. Discover how these adjustments have enhanced her productivity, well-being, and personal interactions, and learn how you can implement similar changes in your own life. Links: Minimalist Phone App: https://www.minimalistphone.com/ Zoe: https://zoe.com/ Brene Brown's "Braving the Wilderness": https://brenebrown.com/book/braving-the-wilderness/ Em Stroud's "Lessons from a Clown": https://www.amazon.com/Lessons-Clown-Courage-Yourself-Laugh-ebook/dp/B09JMWXLJ5  

In this episode of the Comic Coach Podcast, Em Stroud reconnects with Vincenzo Pilato, exploring themes of authenticity, motivation, and the importance of play in life. Vincenzo shares his journey of self-discovery, the bravery of embracing unemployment, and the significance of self-care. The conversation also touches on family dynamics and the contemplation of relocation, highlighting the challenges and excitement of navigating life choices. Emphasizing the value of connection, Vincenzo invites listeners to engage with him and explore their own paths to authenticity and joy. Links: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vincenzopilato/ https://www.youtube.com/@9ninetovibe About Vincenzo: Vincenzo is a Life & Business Coach, Founder of Spark, and HR Leader. An Italian expat living in Berlin with his neurodivergent wife and two children, he once appeared to have a perfect life, meeting all societal expectations. However, he felt a deep emptiness until coaching helped him realize that life is about personal fulfillment and enjoying the journey, not perfection.  This realization transformed his personal life and influences his approach as an HR leader, where he prioritizes connection, authenticity, and understanding individual needs.  As a coach, he supports others in creating a light, aligned, and fulfilling life. He offers free discovery calls.

In this episode of the Comic Coach Podcast, Em Stroud engages in a heartfelt conversation with Susannah Cole, exploring themes of health, resilience, and the importance of proactive self-care. They discuss the impact of family influences, the journey into property and financial health, and the significance of play and creativity in life. Susannah shares her personal experiences with cancer and how it shaped her approach to life and work, emphasizing the need for mindfulness and rest. The conversation highlights the importance of building a safety net and the power of community and support in overcoming challenges. Links: Website: https://thegoodpropertycompany.co.uk/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/TheGoodPropertyCompanySusannahCole Insta: https://www.instagram.com/susannahcoleuk Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/SusannahColeTGPC LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/susannahcole/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/SusannahColeUK The Leadership Impact School: https://theleadershipimpactschool.com/ About Susannah Cole: Susannah Cole started in property because she had a problem to solve. As a head of household with two little children, her month and money were only just meeting (and sometimes there was a gap) and she wanted more time with her family rather than having to swop her time for money at work. She could see property could deliver that, so she set to!  She started The Good Property Company in 2009, as a kitchen table start-up. At first the goal was to source deals for investors, work on JV flips and then invest in property for herself and her family, to reach Financial Freedom and get to her personal goal which was more time with her family and loved ones, and the relatively passive money coming in, to not worry about money!  In the first four 1/2 years of being full time in property, The Good Property Company sourced more than 200+ properties, all in Bristol, with a value of over £45 million, at a purchase price of £30 million (before refurb).  She now lives in both Bristol and Barcelona, spending time with her now grown up family and travels to explore this wide old wonderful world of ours.  She was asked by Wendy, who became her first student, to share her simple step-by-step-systems, and since then she has taught thousands of student to flip, deal source, JV, find investors and undertake the journey to get to Financial Freedom, so they can reach their goals, and spend more time with their family and friends, and live life on their terms. Not bad for a start up!

Join Em Stroud on the Comic Coach Podcast as she chats with the sparkling Victoria Ivanov! They discuss the magic of Blackpool, the importance of bringing joy to communities, and the power of self-belief. Victoria shares heartwarming stories about her Nan, her experiences working in entertainment, and the inspiration behind her work in shopping centres. They delve into the challenges of balancing work and play, the bravery of trusting oneself, and the significance of love and family. Get ready for an inspiring conversation filled with laughter, insights, and a touch of Christmas magic! Vicki's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vicki-ivanov-68a46334 Website: https://www.linkedin.com/in/vicki-ivanov-68a46334 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/candyhouseentertainment

Join Em in a heartwarming conversation with Kristy Duncan, a true Canadian trailblazer, all the way from the chilly plains of Canada! Kristy shares her inspiring journey of self-discovery, resilience, and the pursuit of passion, from embracing her nomadic spirit to championing women in the payments industry. Tune in to hear Kristy's insights on the profound influence of her family, the importance of believing in oneself, and the evolving landscape of gender equity and inclusion in the global payments world. Get ready to be inspired by Kristy's adventures, from repurposing fur coats to exploring Vietnam, and her wisdom on ditching the "shoulds" and living a life filled with purpose and play. Links: Connect with Kristy Duncan on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristyduncan/ Learn more about Women in Payments: https://womeninpayments.org/ About Kristy Duncan: Kristy founded Women in Payments in 2012, a global initiative that connects, inspires, and champions women across the fintech and payments markets in Canada, USA, Australia, New Zealand, the UK, Latin America, and Singapore. A payments industry thought leader, she is also avid supporter of fintech. Kristy is a sought-after advisor to a number of fintechs at various stages, as well as holding non-executive director roles. She has participated as a judge for various fintech awards and accelerators around the world. Prior to founding Women in Payments, Kristy consulted extensively in payments and fintech, where her clients included financial institutions, payment networks, and other leaders and stakeholders in the global payments arena. Kristy also worked at a tier one Canadian bank, in leadership positions in global transaction banking, treasury, finance and operations. Named to the UK's Women in Fintech Power List in 2017, 2018 and 2019 (Standout 35), and Lattice 80's Global 100 Power Women in Fintech in 2018 and 2019, Kristy is frequently invited to speak at global industry fora on topics of payments innovation, fintech, and diversity. Kristy is a registered Professional Engineer, and holds a Bachelor of Applied Science and Engineering from the University of Toronto.

Join Em for a captivating conversation with the fabulous Chris Cummings, a champion of workplace wellbeing and the driving force behind the Inside Out Awards. Chris shares his personal journey from the corporate world to finding purpose in creating positive change. Discover the impact his father had on his life, his passion for making workplaces better, and his unique approach to self-care (hint: it involves spinning!). Tune in for an inspiring discussion on finding motivation, embracing play, and prioritising wellbeing in a rapidly changing world. Chris also reveals his exciting travel plans and shares his insights on the future of workplace wellbeing. Links: Connect with Chris on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-cummings-b204a525/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/well-being-at-work-world   Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wellbeing_at_work_world/ Twitter: https://x.com/WellbeingEvent Inside Out Awards: https://www.insideoutawards.xyz/ Wellbeing at Work Summits: https://wellbeingatwork.world/summit/wellbeing-at-work-summit-us-2025/ About Chris Cummings: Chris Cummings, Group CEO & Founder, Wellbeing at Work Chris is on a global mission to create workplaces where employees thrive. He is Group CEO of Wellbeing at Work, organisers of the global series of Wellbeing at Work Summits, global workplace community called The Wellbeing at Work Hub and C-Suite community driving change across the world called Wellbeing at Work Bespoke. Chris is also Co-Founder of The InsideOut Awards in the UK and is an advisor to organisations with purpose around the world.

Join Em for an inspiring chat with Erika Clegg, a woman on a mission to ignite a values revolution! Erika shares her journey of self-discovery and how uncovering your true values can empower you to live a more fulfilling life. They also delve into the power of vision, overcoming fears, and the importance of self-care. Tune in for a motivating conversation that will leave you ready to embrace your values and create a life of purpose and joy! About Erika Clegg: Erika Clegg empowers leaders and their teams to identify and express their core values, designing strategies for values-driven programs. With 20 years of experience in brand consultancy and strategic communications, she now specializes in values-driven cultures, conducting workshops and delivering keynotes on leadership and values. As an award-winning speaker for Vistage CEO groups, she supports business leaders across Britain. Erika excels at helping clients navigate complexity, uncover their core principles, and pave the way for growth. Links: Erika's Website: https://www.erikaclegg.com/ Connect with Erika on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/erikaclegg/

In this engaging conversation, Em Stroud and Sophie Creese explore the importance of finding joy amidst challenges, the impact of personal stories, and the motivation behind gender equality initiatives. They discuss the significance of play, the resilience required to navigate rejection, and the necessity of self-care in personal and professional growth. The dialogue emphasizes the need for connection in a technology-driven world and the value of embracing vulnerability in public speaking.   About Sophie Creese: Sophie Creese is an award-winning expert in women's equality in the workplace. A thought-leader, public-speaker, founder and mother shaking up the future of work for women's inclusion by proving the link between female reproductive health and women not reaching their career potential.   Links: Heyflow - https://heyflow.co.uk/ Motherboard Movement - https://www.motherboardmovement.co.uk/ Sophie Creese on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophie-creese/

In this solo episode of the Comic Coach Podcast, I'm exploring how improvisation can help you become a better leader and communicator.  Think of those moments when you're put on the spot – that's where improv comes in! I'll be sharing three essential skills – presence, listening, and accepting offers – that can help you think on your feet, build stronger relationships, and feel more confident in any situation. So grab a cuppa, settle in, and get ready to unlock your inner improv superstar! Links: Leadership Impact School: https://theleadershipimpactschool.com/  

Join Em in a captivating conversation with Sim Gill, a young leader making waves in the world of events. Sim shares her refreshing perspectives on impact, motivation, and self-care, with a healthy dose of humour and honesty. Discover how her diverse group of friends, her focus on her future self, and her love for "non-screen time" play a crucial role in her life. Sim also opens up about the importance of prioritising time, setting boundaries, and embracing the power of saying "no". This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking inspiration and practical advice on creating a fulfilling life, both personally and professionally! About Sim Gill: Sim Gill is a Vice President at J.P. Morgan Chase, leading influencer and engagement marketing within J.P. Morgan Payments. Her journey at J.P. Morgan began with an internship, followed by the Corporate Analyst Development Program in 2018. Sim is passionate about payments, fostering junior talent, and promoting diversity, equity, and inclusion in the workplace. She holds a First Class Bachelor of Science Degree in Marketing from Bournemouth University. Links: Sim's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sim-k-gill/ Em Stroud's Website: https://emstroud.com/ The Leadership Impact School: https://theleadershipimpactschool.com/