Global Skills Podcast

In this episode of the Global Skills Podcast, I’m joined by Breda O’Toole, Head of Client Talent Development & Digitalisation at IDA Ireland. Breda brings more than two decades of experience supporting Ireland’s enterprise and investment ecosystem, and she shares a fascinating perspective on how the country has evolved into a global hub for multinational companies, innovation, and high-value careers. Together we reflect on the transformation of Ireland’s economy and the role talent development plays in sustaining that growth. Breda explains how IDA Ireland works closely with over 1,800 multinational companies to strengthen the talent pipeline, support digital transformation, and ensure Ireland remains competitive in a rapidly changing global economy. We explore the importance of collaboration between industry, education, and government, as well as the growing focus on advanced skills, digitalisation, and sustainability. What stands out in this conversation is Breda’s people-first approach to workforce development. She highlights why investing in skills, creating meaningful career pathways, and supporting lifelong learning are essential for both organisations and national economies. It’s an insightful look at how strategic talent development can shape the future of work and opportunity at scale.   Connect with Breda O'Toole Breda O'Toole - IDA Ireland | LinkedIn Connect with the Global Skills Podcast Connect with the Host Vanessa Wainwright LinkedIn Visit Our Website https://www.globalskillspodcast.com Send us an email at editor@globalskillspodcast.com

In this episode of the Global Skills Podcast, I sit down with Adam Gordon, serial HR tech founder and CEO of PoetryHR, to unpack what is really happening inside talent acquisition right now. With over 20 years in recruitment technology and a successful exit of Candidate ID to iCIMS, Adam shares his honest journey from agency recruiter to tech founder and what building, scaling, and selling a global HR tech company truly looks like. We dive deep into AI, automation, and the future of talent acquisition. Adam explains why traditional TA roles are evolving, how recruiter enablement is becoming critical, and why professionals must become intentional about upskilling in the age of AI. From employment “brutality” to elite workforce dynamics, this conversation challenges how we think about hiring, skills, and career ownership. Adam also shares practical advice for job seekers on how to stand out by working “between the seams” and becoming the recruiter of your own life.

In this episodeGlobal Skills Podcast, I sit down with Polly Boardman, Senior Global Learning and Talent Leader, Learning and Talent Director at Collaboradoodle, and Advisory Board Member at Marlin Environmental Services. Polly shares her journey from working in social and economic regeneration programs to leading global learning, talent, OD, EDI, and AI-enabled development strategies. We explore how learning and development plays a critical role across the entire talent journey — from attraction to alumni — and why skills-based, data-driven approaches are shaping the future of work. Polly also speaks candidly about supporting underrepresented talent, mid-career women, and returning parents, and how organizations can design more inclusive, accessible development pathways. We discuss AI’s impact on workforce planning, the risks of losing early talent pipelines, and why L&D must move from being seen as “training” to being recognized as a strategic driver of culture, engagement, and future-proofing talent. Connect With  Polly boardman https://www.linkedin.com/in/pollyhboardman-fcipd Connect with the Global Skills Podcast Connect with the Host Vanessa Wainwright LinkedIn Visit Our Website https://www.globalskillspodcast.com Send us an email at editor@globalskillspodcast.com  

In this episode of the Global Skills Podcast, I sit down with Ben Sewell, Senior Talent Acquisition Leader in Hospitality Recruitment and Co-Founder & Podcast Host of Talking Talent, to explore the realities of hiring in today’s hospitality sector. With experience leading recruitment across casual dining, premium restaurants, and experiential brands, Ben shares insights on high attrition, labour pressures, and why skills-first hiring is reshaping hospitality talent acquisition. We discuss transferable skills from retail and customer service, the power of apprenticeships, and how hospitality builds leadership, resilience, and communication under pressure. Ben Sewell also offers honest perspectives on retention challenges, government support, and the role of AI in modern recruitment. This episode highlights why investing in skills over experience could redefine the future of hospitality hiring.

In this episode, I’m joined by Daniella Freeman, who works in leadership development at Google and is also an accomplished executive coach supporting senior leaders through complexity, transformation, and rapid change. Daniella sits at the intersection of leadership, humanity, and high performance, and brings a deeply human lens to how leaders grow, adapt, and make decisions—especially in the age of AI. We explore why self-awareness is one of the most critical leadership skills today, how leaders can intentionally reskill and redesign work rather than react from fear, and why learning only sticks when it’s reinforced across the whole system. Daniella shares practical insights on transferable skills, the power of small experiments in career transitions, and why investing time in reflection and coaching isn’t a “nice to have” but a strategic advantage. If you’re a leader navigating uncertainty, redefining roles, or questioning what the future of work really demands, this conversation offers clarity, reassurance, and grounded direction. Connect With Daniella Freeman https://www.linkedin.com/in/daniellafreeman Connect with the Global Skills Podcast Connect with the Host Vanessa Wainwright LinkedIn Visit Our Website https://www.globalskillspodcast.com Send us an email at editor@globalskillspodcast.com

In this episode, I’m joined by Federico Menna, CEO of 28 Digital, for a wide-ranging conversation on Europe’s digital future, skills transformation, and the power of ecosystems. Federico shares his journey from telecommunications engineering at Vodafone to leading one of Europe’s most influential digital innovation networks, explaining why bridging education, research, and industry is critical to closing the digital skills gap. We explore how Europe can future-proof talent through lifelong learning, micro-credentials, and strong public-private collaboration, as well as why a shared global language for skills is becoming essential. Federico also reflects on leadership, AI regulation, and why continuous investment in education is not a cost but a long-term competitive advantage. This episode is a must-listen for policymakers, business leaders, educators, and anyone passionate about building resilient, future-ready workforces across Europe and beyond. Connect With Federico Menna https://www.linkedin.com/in/federicomenna Connect with the Global Skills Podcast Connect with the Host Vanessa Wainwright LinkedIn Visit Our Website https://www.globalskillspodcast.com Send us an email at editor@globalskillspodcast.com  

In this episode, I’m joined by Phil Smith, Chair of Skills England, for a wide-ranging and deeply human conversation about skills, leadership, and the future of work. Phil shares his unexpected journey from studying microbiology to leading global technology organisations, representing Team GB as a triathlete, and now helping shape the UK’s national skills agenda. His story is a powerful reminder that careers aren’t always linear — and that curiosity, resilience, and adaptability matter just as much as qualifications. We explore the growing mismatch between education and employment, the real challenges businesses face when it comes to hiring and reskilling, and why simplifying access to skills funding is critical — especially for SMEs. Phil also reflects on the rise of AI, the importance of human skills like communication and confidence, and what leaders can do right now to invest in people rather than fear change. This conversation is full of insight for business leaders, policymakers, and anyone navigating career transitions in an increasingly uncertain world. Connect With Phil Smith https://www.linkedin.com/in/phil-smith-cbe-a2332220 Connect with the Global Skills Podcast Connect with the Host Vanessa Wainwright LinkedIn Visit Our Website https://www.globalskillspodcast.com Send us an email at editor@globalskillspodcast.com  

In this episode of The Global Skills Podcast, I sit down with Sonal, a senior talent acquisition leader whose career spans India and the UK across major tech and consulting companies. We explore her journey from India to the UK, how recruitment differs across both regions, and why scale, mobility, and high-volume tech talent define the Indian hiring landscape. Sonal shares why UK talent still faces STEM shortages, how higher education has improved, and why educators need to integrate AI skills earlier to meet industry demand—especially for young women considering STEM careers. We dig into the rapid rise of AI, the confusion it has created in job descriptions and CVs, and the growing need for educators to validate real AI skills. Sonal also explains why TA teams must evolve beyond transactional recruiting and start operating closer to the business and talent management. This episode is packed with practical insight for recruiters, educators, and anyone navigating the future of work.   Connect With Sonal Bhadwaj https://www.linkedin.com/in/sonalbhardwaj/ Connect with the Global Skills Podcast Connect with the Host Vanessa Wainwright LinkedIn Visit Our Website https://www.globalskillspodcast.com Send us an email at editor@globalskillspodcast.com  

In this episode of the Global Skills Podcast, I sit down with Mike Byrne, NIIT’s VP of Sales for EMEA and a seasoned EdTech leader, together with Dylan Stokes, NIIT’s Global Head of HCM Technology Practice. We explore what’s really happening inside enterprise L&D right now—from the rise of GenAI-enabled learning to the shift away from one-size-fits-all content toward deeply personalized, skills-first workforce development. Mike and Dylan share powerful insights from decades in learning, talent technologies, and large-scale transformation, including why companies can no longer afford to wait when it comes to understanding and predicting skills gaps. We also highlight NIIT’s exciting collaboration with Abodoo, a partnership built on shared values around skills, access, employability, and enabling people to thrive through intelligent learning. Together, we discuss how organizations are using skills analytics, talent mobility, and rapid AI-driven implementations to future-proof their workforce. Whether you’re leading L&D, navigating transformation, or planning your 2025 skills strategy, this episode offers clear, practical direction—and a glimpse into what the next three years of learning innovation will look like.

In this episode of the Global Skills Podcast, I’m joined by Deepti Palluri, Head of Learning and Organisational Development at Commonwealth Secretariat, for a deeply insightful conversation on skills, learning, and leadership in an age of constant disruption. We explore how professionals—especially those in L&D—can help individuals navigate the noise around AI by separating personal upskilling goals from organisational needs, and by asking better, more strategic questions about capability, impact, and relevance. Deepti shares her “crooked career” journey into L&D, why learning now has a permanent seat at the leadership table, and how evidence-based approaches are reshaping how organisations measure value beyond completion rates. We also unpack the importance of a shared skills language across talent acquisition, learning, and leadership, the risks of poorly calibrated AI-driven hiring systems, and why collaboration between industry and universities is critical to future-proofing talent. This episode is a must-listen for L&D leaders, HR professionals, and anyone thinking seriously about skills, resilience, and human capability in a rapidly changing world. Connect With  Deepti Palluri https://www.linkedin.com/in/deeptipelluri Connect with the Global Skills Podcast Connect with the Host Vanessa Wainwright LinkedIn Visit Our Website https://www.globalskillspodcast.com Send us an email at editor@globalskillspodcast.com  

In this episode, I sit down with Cheney Hamilton, award-winning workforce strategist and Lead Analyst for Fusion Work at Bloor Research, to explore what happens when AI is adopted without design, governance, or regard for people. Cheney shares her personal journey into flexible working advocacy and explains how outdated, time-based job models are putting organisations, economies, and workers at serious risk as AI accelerates at machine speed. We unpack why AI is not “just a tool,” but a systemic force that magnifies existing bias, broken job design, and poor workforce planning. Cheney introduces the concept of outcome-based work and makes a compelling case for workforce sustainability as the missing fourth pillar of ESG. From AI governance and ethical hiring to reskilling, L&D’s evolving role, and the urgent need for leaders to redesign work before 2030, this conversation is a wake-up call—and a roadmap—for organisations that want to adopt AI Connect With Cheney Hamilton https://www.linkedin.com/in/cheneyhamilton Connect with the Global Skills Podcast Connect with the Host Vanessa Wainwright LinkedIn Visit Our Website https://www.globalskillspodcast.com Send us an email at editor@globalskillspodcast.com  

In this episode, I’m joined by Joe Dalton, a seasoned sales leader and skills strategist who has spent over three decades redefining what high-performance sales really looks like. We explore why, in an AI-driven world, human skills like communication, confidence, emotional intelligence, and structured thinking are becoming more valuable—not less. Joe shares how selling has always been about human connection, long before technology entered the picture, and why skills such as listening, asking the right questions, and understanding motivation are now critical for professionals at every career stage. We also unpack Joe’s sales framework, the role of trust in complex decision-making, and why over-automation can damage both businesses and society if it replaces human judgment entirely. From navigating ghosting and interviews to influencing leadership and C-suite conversations, this episode goes beyond sales—it’s a masterclass in communication for leaders, early talent, and anyone looking to stand out in a rapidly changing workplace. Joe’s insights remind us that when we invest in skills, we invest in long-term relevance. Connect With  Joe Dalton https://www.linkedin.com/in/mr-joe-dalton Connect with the Global Skills Podcast Connect with the Host Vanessa Wainwright LinkedIn Visit Our Website https://www.globalskillspodcast.com Send us an email at editor@globalskillspodcast.com  

In this episode of the Global Skills Podcast, I sit down with Anne Hubbard to explore what education, skills, and employability really look like in a world shaped by AI, neurodiversity, and rapidly changing career pathways. Anne shares her unconventional journey from investment banking and trading into education, highlighting how transferable human skills like communication, adaptability, and emotional intelligence have shaped every stage of her career. Together, we unpack the growing disconnect between traditional education systems and industry needs, the rising importance of human-centric skills, and why young people—and adults at every stage—should see themselves as evolving “brands.” Anne offers grounded insights on supporting neurodiverse learners, rethinking assessment, embracing AI as a tool rather than a threat, and encouraging lifelong learning, resilience, and instinct-led decision making in uncertain times. Connect With Anne Hubbard  https://www.linkedin.com/in/anne-hubbard-40724a160 Connect with the Global Skills Podcast Connect with the Host Vanessa Wainwright LinkedIn Visit Our Website https://www.globalskillspodcast.com Send us an email at editor@globalskillspodcast.com  

In this episode of the Global Skills Podcast, I sit down with Dannny McCoy, CEO of Ibec, to explore how skills, education, and adaptability are shaping Ireland’s economic future in a time of rapid technological and geopolitical change. Drawing on decades of experience at the intersection of business, policy, and talent, Dannny shares a powerful perspective on why human capital is now the defining competitive advantage for countries and companies alike. We dive into the real impact of AI on jobs, why fear often accompanies moments of technological tipping points, and how societies can respond without leaving people behind. From lifelong learning gaps and transferable skills to the growing importance of care, empathy, and wisdom in the workforce, this conversation challenges narrow definitions of productivity and success. Danny also reflects on what Ireland has done right, where it must do better, and why future-proofing talent requires both head and heart. Connect With Danny McCoy  https://ie.linkedin.com/in/danny-mccoy Visit Our Website https://www.globalskillspodcast.com Send us an email at editor@globalskillspodcast.com

In this episode of the Global Skills Podcast, I’m joined by Duane Baumgartner, Founder and CEO of City Ranked Media. Duane shares his journey from early sales roles to building a data-driven digital growth agency, and how that experience shaped his belief that strong human connection, measurable outcomes, and clear expectations are at the heart of sustainable business growth. We explore how AI, automation, and real-time data are changing not just marketing, but the skills leaders need to future-proof their teams. Duane unpacks why human skills like communication, trust, and decision-making matter more than ever, how agile team structures unlock innovation, and what graduates and emerging professionals must understand about linking their skills directly to business value. Connect With Duane Baumgartner  https://www.linkedin.com/in/duanebaumgartner Connect with the Global Skills Podcast Connect with the Host Vanessa Wainwright LinkedIn Visit Our Website https://www.globalskillspodcast.com Send us an email at editor@globalskillspodcast.com

In this episode of the Global Skills Podcast, I’m joined by Alvaro Gonzalez, founder and CEO of Dawere, Latin America’s first accredited online high school. Alvaro shares how his journey from telecommunications engineer to edtech founder led him to build a radically inclusive education model designed for underserved and low-income communities. What began as a bold experiment in Venezuela has now grown into a global platform supporting students across dozens of countries. We explore how AI-powered learning, virtual classrooms, and continuous assessment are transforming what high school education can look like. Alvaro explains why personalized learning at scale is finally possible, how AI tutors free teachers to focus on human and soft skills, and why students can now complete national curricula in just one to two hours a day—creating space to pursue passions, entrepreneurship, sports, or creative work. Our conversation also dives into the future of skills, apprenticeships, and lifelong learning. We discuss why traditional education systems are struggling to keep pace with a rapidly changing workforce, how online education can unlock opportunity regardless of geography, and what governments must do to create legal frameworks that support innovation. Alvaro shares powerful insights on learner mindset, skills confidence, and why the ability to keep learning may be the most important future skill of all. Connect With Alvaro Gonzalez https://ve.linkedin.com/in/alvaro-gonzalez Connect with the Global Skills Podcast Connect with the Host Vanessa Wainwright LinkedIn Visit Our Website https://www.globalskillspodcast.com Send us an email at editor@globalskillspodcast.com

In this episode of the Global Skills Podcast, I’m joined by Laura Liguori, Head of Curriculum at Britannica Education and a globally recognised leader in curriculum innovation, AI integration, and future-ready learning. With more than 20 years of experience spanning Europe, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa, Laura brings a rare global lens to how education systems must evolve to meet the realities of rapid technological change. We explore how traditional, textbook-driven models are giving way to inquiry-based, skills-focused learning — and why this shift is no longer optional. Laura shares what she’s seeing firsthand across international schools and governments, from AI-driven national curricula in the Middle East to emerging “future schools” using robotics, adaptive learning platforms, and immersive technologies. We unpack why critical thinking, reasoning, digital literacy, and ethical AI use are becoming foundational skills, and why memorisation alone is no longer fit for purpose in a world where information is instantly accessible. We also dive into one of the biggest challenges facing education today: the disconnect between schools, higher education, and industry. As jobs evolve faster than curricula, Laura explains why collaboration across sectors is essential — and why educators must be supported with time, vision, and strategy to implement meaningful change. Throughout the conversation, she reinforces a powerful message: technology should enhance learning, not replace humanity. The future of education depends on balancing artificial intelligence with natural intelligence — and acting now. Connect With Laura Liguori https://uk.linkedin.com/in/laura-liguori-9b2929b5 Connect with the Global Skills Podcast Connect with the Host Vanessa Wainwright LinkedIn Visit Our Website https://www.globalskillspodcast.com Send us an email at editor@globalskillspodcast.com  

In this episode of the Global Skills Podcast, I’m joined by Tash Wilcocks, a learning designer and systems thinker working across public service, digital transformation, and education. Together, we explore what it really means to close the skills gap at a time when AI is rapidly reshaping work, learning, and opportunity. Tash shares honest, grounded reflections on learning design, the limits of traditional education models, and why fear—especially among early and mid-career talent—is becoming one of the biggest barriers to future readiness. We also unpack the idea of being “radically human” in how we design learning, build organisations, and support people through change. From mentoring and confidence-building to rethinking how skills, curiosity, and lived experience show up in the workplace, this conversation challenges leaders, educators, and employers to pause, listen, and design learning that truly serves people—not just productivity. If you’re navigating AI, workforce transformation, or the future of education, this episode invites you to think differently about what skills really matter next. Connect with Tash Wilcoks https://uk.linkedin.com/in/tashwillcocks Connect with the Global Skills Podcast Connect with the Host Vanessa Wainwright LinkedIn Visit Our Website https://www.globalskillspodcast.com Send us an email at editor@globalskillspodcast.com

In this episode I sit down with Helen Burns — Global Talent Director at Owkin — to trace her truly non-linear journey: from freelance consulting and contract roles to leading talent acquisition at a cutting-edge AI/biotech firm. Helen shares how her background working across different sectors and countries taught her to value adaptability, curiosity and human connection above all, and how those qualities help her build resilient, human-centred talent strategies in a fast-changing industry. We dive into themes of lifelong learning, embracing uncertainty, and the role of transferable skills in redefining career paths. Helen also opens up about navigating imposter syndrome, the importance of employer value propositions, and why building company culture now matters more than ever. Her story is a reminder that careers don’t need to follow a straight line — and that sometimes curiosity and courage can lead you exactly where you belong.   Connect With Helen Burns https://www.linkedin.com/in/helenburns/ Connect with the Global Skills Podcast Connect with the Host Vanessa Wainwright LinkedIn Visit Our Website https://www.globalskillspodcast.com Send us an email at editor@globalskillspodcast.com  

In this episode of the Global Skills Podcast, we have an enlightening conversation with Kobi Ampoma, a veteran in talent acquisition with over twenty years of experience. Currently leading recruitment for Heineken in the Netherlands, Kobi is renowned for his dedication to inclusive hiring and his ability to shape diverse, high-performing teams. Throughout the episode, Kobi shares his deep insights into the evolving world of recruitment, highlighting the importance of bridging skill gaps, fostering diversity, and adapting to new challenges in the talent landscape. Kobi's passion for empowering emerging talent and his commitment to inclusive hiring practices offer valuable lessons for organizations looking to build a more inclusive and dynamic workforce. Tune in to discover how forward-thinking talent acquisition can shape the future of work. Connect With Kobi Ampoma https://www.linkedin.com/in/kobiampoma/ Connect with the Global Skills Podcast Connect with the Host Vanessa Wainwright LinkedIn Visit Our Website https://www.globalskillspodcast.com Send us an email at editor@globalskillspodcast.com