Leadership and Culture First

In this episode of Leadership and Culture First, hosts Sharon Black and Dr Nichola Ashby are joined by Professor Claire Pryor, the RCN Foundation Chair and Professor of Adult Social Care Nursing at the University of Salford. In a wide ranging and reflective conversation, Claire shares the journey that took her from intensive care nursing to leading research and education that is shaping the future of adult social care nursing across the UK and beyond.Claire speaks candidly about the curiosity that has driven her career, describing how constantly asking questions in clinical practice led her into research, education and ultimately into a pioneering national role. Despite her achievements, she challenges the traditional idea of what leadership looks like, explaining why she prefers to see herself as part of a “gang” or collective where people lead through their individual strengths rather than hierarchy.The discussion explores the cultural differences between the NHS and social care, and why social care can offer more freedom for innovation, collaboration and emerging leadership. Claire also highlights the often overlooked expertise of social care nurses, calling for greater recognition of the complex and highly skilled work they do every day across care homes, community services and specialist settings.Throughout the conversation, the hosts reflect on the importance of self awareness, compassionate leadership and truly listening to colleagues. Claire introduces the powerful idea of “listening with fascination” and shares how small moments of support or dismissal can shape the leaders of the future.The episode also examines the challenges of integrating health and social care, the need for stronger visibility of social care nursing within education and media, and why giving nurses the freedom to grow into leadership earlier in their careers could transform the profession.This is a thoughtful and honest conversation about curiosity, collaboration and redefining what leadership means in modern healthcare.In this episode you will hear about:• Why curiosity and questioning can shape a career in nursing• Rethinking leadership beyond hierarchy and titles• The value of collective leadership within teams• The hidden expertise of social care nurses• Bridging the cultural divide between health and social care• Listening with fascination and the power of being heard• How early opportunities can help nurses grow into leadership rolesA powerful conversation for anyone interested in leadership, culture and the future of nursing across health and social care.

In this episode of Leadership and Culture First, Sharon Black and Nichola Jane Ashby are joined by Professor Gemma Stacey, former Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Florence Nightingale Foundation and current Associate Dean for Practice at Nottingham Trent University.Gemma shares her remarkable journey from lived experience of mental health services at a young age to becoming a national and international voice in nursing leadership, workforce development and system change.Together, we explore:How values shape leadership identityThe power and responsibility leaders hold within complex systemsWhy influence often matters more than titleThe realities of leading under scrutinyMobilising networks to create lasting changeRecognising blind spots and avoiding burnoutGemma reflects on building the Florence Nightingale Foundation Academy, supporting thousands of nurses to develop political confidence and leadership voice, and the importance of relational leadership in volatile and uncertain environments.This is a thoughtful and honest conversation about courage, influence, resilience and what it truly means to lead in healthcare today.If you are a healthcare professional, educator, system leader or someone passionate about values driven leadership, this episode will challenge and inspire you.Subscribe to Leadership and Culture First for weekly conversations that explore the complexities of leadership and culture and offer practical insight for aspiring and experienced leaders alike.

In this episode of the Leadership and Culture First podcast, Sharon and Nichola are joined by transformational leader and social impact strategist Edyta Ozbek, whose work spans Europe, Africa, Asia and the Pacific.Edyta shares her leadership journey from banking and finance into international healthcare recruitment, where she built and scaled teams across nine countries. She reflects openly on the realities of entrepreneurship, the weight of responsibility, leading through political change, and the emotional resilience required when difficult decisions affect people’s livelihoods.The conversation explores what it truly means to shape culture as a leader. Edyta speaks about creating psychological safety, welcoming constructive disagreement, and building confidence through self awareness tools such as Myers Briggs and CliftonStrengths. She discusses the challenge of balancing passion with structure, especially when leading highly accomplished professionals, and how humility and integrity underpin sustainable leadership.A central focus of the episode is Nou Zetwals Mauritius, a nonprofit movement founded by Edyta to recognise and celebrate health and social care professionals. Meaning “our stars” in Mauritian Creole, the initiative aims to raise morale, inspire national pride, and shine a light on the unseen dedication of nurses and care workers across the country.This episode is a powerful reflection on:• Leading with values across cultures• Building remote teams while maintaining engagement• The realities of starting and scaling a business• Recognition as a tool for cultural change• Resilience, peer support and emotional intelligence in leadershipWhether you are an established leader, an aspiring entrepreneur, or working within health and social care, this conversation offers practical insight and honest reflection on leading with courage, compassion and purpose.If you enjoy the episode, please like, subscribe and share. New episodes are released weekly.

This week, Janet Shreeve joins Dr Sharon Black and Dr Nichola Jane Ashby for an inspiring and grounded conversation about leadership, values and building a business in the care sector later in life.Janet launched her business at 65, proving that experience, wisdom and purpose can be powerful foundations for entrepreneurship. This episode explores resilience, advocacy and why better communication is essential across care services.In this conversation, we discuss:• Leading with values in the care sector• Why advocacy empowers families and individuals• Resilience through challenge and change• The importance of networking at every stage of life• Curiosity as a lifelong leadership strengthA few moments that stayed with us:"It’s all about being true to yourself.""Be curious and don’t be afraid.""Every day is a school day."Leadership is not defined by age. It is defined by courage, impact and authenticity.

In this reflective episode of the Leadership and Culture First podcast, Sharon Black and Nichola Jane Ashby look back on the themes, insights, and moments that have shaped recent conversations with guests.They explore what leadership really looks like in practice, beyond job titles and frameworks. From courage in everyday conversations to the role of authenticity, trust, and communication, the discussion highlights how leadership shows up in many different forms.The episode also dives into the realities of entrepreneurship, the difference between management and leadership, and why coaching plays such a powerful role in personal and professional development. At its heart, this conversation is about creating cultures where people can grow, contribute, and lead in ways that are true to who they are.

SummaryIn this episode, Dr. Sharon Black and Dr. Nichola Ashby engage with Jules Crowther, an executive coach specializing in neurodiversity. They explore the complexities of leadership, the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals, and the importance of psychological safety in the workplace. Jules shares her personal journey of discovering her neurodivergent identity and how it shapes her coaching practice. The conversation emphasizes the need for inclusivity, understanding, and support for neurodiverse individuals in leadership roles, as well as practical strategies for organizations to foster a more inclusive environment.TakeawaysCoaching is about listening and creating a safe space.Isolation is a significant challenge for leaders.Perfectionism can lead to burnout, especially for neurodivergent individuals.Understanding neurodiversity is crucial for effective leadership.Psychological safety allows for open discussions about needs and challenges.Leaders should embrace their unique strengths and experiences.Flexibility in the workplace can enhance productivity for neurodivergent individuals.Communication should be clear and non-ambiguous to reduce anxiety.Personal experiences shape professional identity and coaching practices.Building peer support networks can combat feelings of isolation.Keywordsleadership, neurodiversity, executive coaching, female leaders, psychological safety, authenticity, perfectionism, inclusion, coaching strategies, personal growthSound bites"Perfectionism is not attainable.""Authenticity is key in leadership.""Burnout is not a badge of honor."Chapters00:00 Introduction to Leadership and Neurodiversity02:52 The Journey into Executive Coaching05:57 Challenges in Leadership: Isolation and Perfectionism08:43 Understanding Neurodiversity in Leadership11:52 The Impact of Personal Experience on Professional Identity14:37 Creating Inclusive Work Environments17:49 Practical Strategies for Supporting Neurodiversity21:21 Pivotal Moments in Leadership24:44 Navigating Barriers and Biases27:34 Advice for Aspiring Female Leaders29:19 The Future of Executive Coaching32:33 Final Thoughts and Key Messages

SummaryIn this episode, Dr. Sharon Black and Dr. Nichola Ashby explore leadership lessons derived from classic Christmas films. They discuss themes such as the importance of reflection, joy, inclusion, and values-driven leadership, drawing parallels between the narratives of these films and the challenges faced by leaders. Each film serves as a metaphor for various leadership qualities, encouraging listeners to reflect on their own leadership journeys and the impact they have on their teams.TakeawaysChristmas movies are packed with values for leaders.Reflection is crucial for understanding our impact.Positive risk-taking is essential for leadership.Joy and laughter can change a culture.Inclusion is central to effective leadership.It's okay not to be perfect as a leader.Emotional courage is key to starting over.Teamwork is vital for operational excellence.Your network is one of your greatest resources.Values-driven leadership builds trust.Sound bites"How often do we take time to reflect?""Joy and laughter can change a culture.""Values-driven leadership builds trust."Keywordsleadership, Christmas films, coaching, self-reflection, inclusion, joy, empathy, problem-solving, teamwork, values-driven leadership

In this engaging podcast episode, Dr. Nichola Ashby and Dr. Sharon Black explore the complexities of leadership and culture with Professor Laura Serrant. They discuss the importance of inclusive leadership, the evolution of nursing, and the concept of the Lioness Effect, which emphasizes integrity and impact in leadership. Laura shares her personal journey, the significance of legacy, and the challenges leaders face in today's fast-paced world. The conversation highlights the need for reflection, the role of accidental leaders, and the importance of creating equitable opportunities for all.TakeawaysLeadership and culture are foundational for organizational success.Inclusion must be practiced, not just valued.Laura Serrant's journey is marked by intentionality and openness to opportunity.The nursing profession has evolved significantly since the 1980s.Leadership is about presence and intention, not just titles.Integrity and impact are essential for effective leadership.Legacy should be a consideration for aspiring leaders.Accidental leaders often emerge from a desire to address social injustices.Creating space for reflection is crucial in leadership.The Lioness Effect embodies the potential for impactful leadership.Keywordsleadership, culture, inclusion, Lioness Effect, integrity, impact, legacy, nursing, social justice, healthcare

In this conversation, Dr. Sharon Black and Dr. Nichola Ashby explore the concept of respect, emphasizing that it should not be based on hierarchy but rather on mutual recognition of humanity. Dr. Black argues that respect is a fundamental human quality that should be extended to everyone, regardless of their position or role.Takeaways:-Respect isn't about hierarchy.-It's about being a decent human being.-Mutual respect is essential in professional relationships.-Respect should be based on humanity, not roles.-Hierarchy should not dictate respect.-Everyone deserves respect regardless of their position.-Understanding others' perspectives is crucial.-Respect fosters better communication.-Building relationships requires mutual recognition.-Respect is a fundamental human quality.

Episode 1: Welcome to Leadership and Culture FirstIn this inaugural episode, hosts Dr Nicola Ashby and Dr Sharon Black introduce Leadership and Culture First, a podcast dedicated to exploring how leadership, culture, and people shape success across healthcare, education, business, and beyond.This short introductory conversation sets the scene for what listeners can expect. Nicola and Sharon share the inspiration behind the podcast, the importance of thoughtful leadership and organisational culture, and their vision for building a learning space that supports growth, curiosity, and better ways of working.Across future episodes, you will hear insights, real experiences, and meaningful conversations with leaders, educators, and innovators who are making a difference. Whether you are leading a team, developing future leaders, or passionate about creating positive workplace cultures, this podcast is designed to support and inspire you.Subscribe and join us as we explore leadership and culture with honesty, reflection, and a commitment to making work better for everyone.Leadership and Culture First is available on all major podcast platforms.