It's my pleasure to share with you the latest episode of the Communicating Purpose podcast with Dan Harris, Founder and CEO of Neurodiversity in Business.Neurodiversity in Business is a remarkable charity and business forum dedicated to advancing best practices in neurodiversity recruitment, retention, and empowerment. Their mission is to help organizations create more neuro-inclusive workplaces while championing the one in five neurodivergent individuals in today’s workforce.Although NiB is run entirely by unpaid volunteers, it partners with some of the world’s largest corporations—reflecting the growing commitment across industries to embrace neurodiversity and inclusion.In this episode, we discussed:🤝 Destigmatising neurodiversity in the workplace and fostering genuine inclusion🏢 Why businesses thrive when neuro-inclusion is embedded at their core💬 My own personal journey with ADHD and how it has shaped my careerI hope you enjoy.John Higginson,Founder & CEO, Higginson Strategy
It's my pleasure to share with you the latest episode of the Communicating Purpose podcast with Charlotte Morgan, Senior Head of Communications at BBC News.At the heart of the world’s largest broadcast news organisation, Charlotte helps shape how the BBC engages global audiences, navigates controversy, and builds trust in its journalism around the world. From organising the launch of a new bureau in a foreign country to leading communications through national moments, Charlotte offers a unique perspective on telling the story of a public institution trusted by millions worldwide.Charlotte brings a wealth of experience from both government and media. She began her career as a Press Officer in the Civil Service—working at the Department for Transport, the Office of the Deputy Prime Minister, and the Department for Communities and Local Government—before moving into senior communications roles at the BBC. Today, she plays a pivotal role in ensuring the BBC’s messages cut through on both the national and international stage.In this episode, we discussed:🚦 Working in the Department for Transport during the “good day to bury bad news” scandal🗳️ Broadcasting live from the BBC briefing room during last year’s general election coverage📣 Why repetition is a powerful tool for delivering a clear and consistent messageI hope you enjoy.John Higginson,Founder & CEO, Higginson Strategy
It's my pleasure to share with you the latest episode of the Communicating Purpose podcast with Rachel Epstein, Head of Marketing and External Affairs at Skyral.At the forefront of this British advanced modelling software company, Rachel leads Skyral's global marketing, brand strategy and external affairs - shaping how this innovative data company communicates its mission, drives innovation to predict tomorrow's issues and positions itself in a rapidly changing defence and technology landscape. Rachel brings a wealth of experience from the private and public sector. Before joining Skyral, Rachel worked at tech giant Palantir, was a senior press officer for COP26 and before that, a Senior Communications Officer at the Ministry of Defence and Cabinet Office. She is also the first guest I have had on who also worked at Higginson Strategy as an intern at the start of her career.In this episode, we discussed:🌾How Skyral communicated its groundbreaking achievement in reducing childhood malnutrition in Indonesia📝 Lessons learned from interning at Higginson Strategy—and the skills that shaped a career in communications📣 Why clear, human-centred messaging is essential in a data-driven industryI hope you enjoy.John Higginson,Founder & CEO, Higginson Strategy
It's my pleasure to share with you the latest episode of the Communicating Purpose podcast with Liam Parker, Chief Communications and Corporate Relations Officer at Formula 1.At the heart of this global brand, Liam leads Formula 1’s communications, digital strategy, and political engagement—shaping how the sport speaks to the world, drives sustainability, and navigates its place on the international stage.Liam brings a wealth of frontline experience from the public sector, having served as Special Advisor to the Foreign Secretary, Head of Press to the Governor of the Bank of England, and in senior comms roles across HM Treasury, Downing Street, and the Financial Services Authority.In this episode, we discussed:🌍 Formula 1’s journey toward sustainability and its ambitious net zero targets📉 How communications missteps can lay the groundwork for future success🗞️ Why, in a digital world, print media still holds a unique powerI hope you enjoy. John Higginson,Founder & CEO, Higginson Strategy
It's my pleasure to share with you the latest episode of the Communicating Purpose podcast with Phil Hall, Head of Public Policy and Public Relations, Society of Pension Professionals.SPP is the UK’s leading body representing a wide range of providers across the pensions industry—from actuaries and lawyers to investment managers and administrators—collectively influencing policy for the majority of the nation’s pension schemes.In his role, Phil leads the Society’s policy development and public voice, shaping how the industry engages with government, regulators, and the media. With a background in public affairs and a passion for impactful communication, Phil is focused on building stronger bridges between policymakers and pension professionals.His work champions the vital role pensions play in financial wellbeing, and the need for policy that supports long-term value for savers and society alike.In this episode, we discussed:🚌 How a "failed" billboard campaign with the wrong year accidentally supercharged a local energy campaign📱 The harsh LinkedIn truth that's killing your engagement 🔄 The rule of 7 and why your audience hasn't heard you until you're sick of saying it I hope you enjoy.John Higginson, Founder & CEO, Higginson Strategy
It's my pleasure to share with you the latest episode of the Communicating Purpose podcast with Adam Lake, Head of Communications at Climate Group North America.Climate Group exists to accelerate climate action by bringing together the world's most influential businesses and governments. For 20 years, they've created platforms where collective commitments drive real change.In his role as Head of Communications, Adam leads the narrative strategy for Climate Week NYC—the largest climate event of its kind globally. During his seven-year tenure, Adam has transformed the event from an exclusive business gathering into a city-wide movement of events spanning every sector.Adam is a passionate advocate for making climate action mainstream, using innovative communications strategies to bridge the gap between boardrooms and everyday people, proving that the most powerful campaigns often come from unexpected collaborations.In this episode, we discussed:📺 How a Twitter DM sparked the coordination of ALL major US late-night TV shows for one historic "Climate Night" 🎭Why backstage event drama helps fuel ambitious commitments— and CEO rivalry become the most powerful tools for accelerating climate action🌍 The art of building unstoppable momentum—why Climate Week NYC kept growing even during COVID when everything else was cancelled💡 Why your "failed" career experiments are actually your secret weapon in communications I hope you enjoy.John Higginson,Founder & CEO, Higginson Strategy
It’s my pleasure to share with you the latest episode of the Communicating Purpose podcast with Tanya Braun, Director of External Affairs and Fundraising at Living Streets—the UK charity for everyday walking.Living Streets exists to create a walking nation, where streets are free from congestion and pollution, and walking is the natural choice for everyday journeys. The charity’s mission is rooted in tackling preventable illness, reducing social isolation, and building healthy, connected communities.In her Directorial role, Tanya leads the charity’s policy, campaigns, public affairs, and communications activity. During her ten year tenure, Tanya has significantly raised the organisation’s profile and secured multiple industry awards for its work.Tanya is a passionate advocate for sustainable transport and inclusive urban spaces, using her expertise to inspire public and political support for walking as a simple yet powerful solution to many of today’s social and environmental challenges.In this episode, we discussed: 🕳️How targeting potholes unlocked 1,100 media hits and a national award (plus the secret sauce behind viral campaigns)💰 The shocking half-billion pound hidden cost that's keeping Britain's elderly prisoners in their own homes👨👩👧👦 Why ditching the school run car could be the relationship game-changer every parent needs to hearI hope you enjoy.John Higginson,Founder & CEO, Higginson Strategy
It’s my pleasure to share with you the latest episode of the Communicating Purpose podcast with Arthur Thomas, Public Affairs Advisor at FOUR PAWS UK - a campaigning organisation dedicated to improving the conditions of animals under direct human influence.With experience across multiple charity sectors, Arthur has built a career in public affairs and campaigning. Before joining Four Paws, he worked at the Holocaust Educational Trust, the Humane Society, and the International Fund for Animal Welfare.In this episode, we covered: 🦁 Four Paws' ongoing campaign to ban fur imports in the UK, despite fur farming being banned over 20 years ago 🏆 Arthur's experience helping pass the Ivory Act and lessons learned about persistence 🏛️ The reality of lobbying for good causes and the lengthy process of legislative change I hope you enjoy.John Higginson,Founder & CEO, Higginson Strategy
It’s my pleasure to share with you the latest episode of the Communicating Purpose podcast with Rachel Bhageerutty, Global Director of Strategic Communication at Animals AsiaAnimals Asia is a charity dedicated to ending bear bile farming and improving animal welfare across Asia.At the heart of Rachel's work is a mission to shift perceptions, build trust across cultures, and centre compassion in some of the world’s most complex advocacy spaces.With a career spanning over two decades, Rachel has led strategic communications across the charity and housing sectors. Before joining Animals Asia, she spent nearly ten years at Brooke, the global NGO championing the welfare of working horses and donkeys.From The Stroke Association to Notting Hill Housing and Habinteg, Rachel has consistently shaped brand narratives, built trust across diverse communities, and developed communication strategies that connect people to powerful causes.In this episode, we covered: 🐻The remarkable story behind Vietnam's near-elimination of bear bile farming, with the help of Animals Asia, that could transform animal welfare across Asia.🌱The grassroots approach that convinced more than 90% of traditional medicine users to abandon bear bile.📰The front page media story that transformed Rachel's approach to journalism.🎯The painful lesson every communications professional needs to learn about managing expectations.I hope you enjoy.John Higginson,Founder & CEO, Higginson Strategy
It’s my pleasure to share with you the latest episode of the Communicating Purpose podcast with Toby Elliott, Head of Communications at Network Rail Western.Overseen by the Department for Transport, Network Rail is the public body that owns and manages the UK’s rail infrastructure.In his role, Toby shapes the organisation’s communications strategy - determining the most effective ways to engage audiences and ensure communications drive real impact.Toby joined Network Rail nearly a decade ago in public affairs and has led communications since 2020. His career spans politics and policy, including roles as a Swindon Councillor, a Parliamentary Assistant, and a Campaign Manager for the Conservatives. He began as a caseworker in the European Parliament. In this episode, we discussed:⛈️How Toby’s lobbying and coalition-building efforts helped turn the storm-ravaged Dawlish railway into a century-proof engineering triumph.🚆What HS2 reveals about the hidden tensions between political ambition, public trust, and infrastructure realities.🌱 Why the real debate around major projects isn’t just cost but how we measure long-term value.🤝 How the most successful professionals build networks that keep doors open.I hope you enjoy.John Higginson,Founder & CEO, Higginson Strategy
It’s my pleasure to share with you the latest episode of the Communicating Purpose podcast with Gill Perkins, CEO of the Bumblebee Conservation Trust.Perkins transitioned from a successful business career to focus on her passion for conservation. Since 2016, Gill has led the Trust's initiatives and operations, ensuring the organisation delivers against its strategy.Under Gill’s leadership, the Bumblebee Conservation Trust is on a mission to keep bumblebees buzzing by enhancing the understanding and quality of bumblebee ecology and conservation.In this episode, we discussed:⚠️ The drastic decline of bumblebees since WWII - and what we can do about it. 🛒Why mindful food purchases are essential for the recovery of bumblebee populations.🍓Why soft fruit in the UK relies on the importation of 95,000 boxes of commercially farmed bumblebees.📱Why the Bumblebee Conservation Trust is rethinking its social media strategy to engage Gen Z.🐝 The inspiring story of the short-haired bumblebee’s reintroduction.I hope you enjoy. John Higginson,Founder & CEO, Higginson Strategy
It’s my pleasure to share with you the latest episode of the Communicating Purpose podcast with Leonora Merry - Director of Communications and External Affairs at Nuffield Trust.Leonora Merry joined Nuffield Trust over a decade ago, serving as Deputy Director of Communications until 2020. She led efforts to promote the think tank’s research across media, Parliament, and the policy community.Previously, she was Head of Media and External Affairs at the Social Market Foundation, where she significantly raised its profile, contributing to its recognition as UK Think Tank of the Year (2012). She also co-founded WonkComms, a best practice network for think tank communicators.In this episode, we discussed:💡 How a well-timed campaign on NHS dentistry made headlines and reached Parliament.🏥How Nuffield Trust aims to inform better policymaking around the Assisted Dying Bill by focusing on high-quality end-of-life care.🗣️How Nuffield Trust shaped the conversation on a nationwide issue that had long been ignored by the media and policymakers⏳The strategic choices that can turn a good story into a major media moment.I hope you enjoy.John Higginson,Founder & CEO, Higginson Strategy
It’s my pleasure to share with you the latest episode of the Communicating Purpose podcast with Catherine Thomas, Chief Corporate Affairs Officer at Clarion Housing Group. As the UK's largest housing association, Catherine spearheads Clarion Housing Group's efforts to shape government policy and drive positive change in the housing sector.Before joining Clarion, Catherine held senior marketing and communications roles across the real estate and retail industries. Her expertise in destination marketing was refined at Land Securities, where she led communications for Victoria SW1, including the acclaimed Nova mixed-use development.Catherine has also contributed to major real estate projects across Europe and the Middle East.In this episode, we discussed:🎯 How Catherine Thomas applies lessons from the fast-paced world of fashion PR to transform communication in the housing sector💡 How a career misstep in the Middle East taught Catherine Thomas a lesson in humility and the true power of networking📚What communications professionals can learn from the evidence-led practices of academia🤝How nurturing your network can be the lifeline that saves your career when things don’t go as planned.I hope you enjoy.John Higginson,Founder & CEO, Higginson Strategy
It’s my pleasure to share with you the latest episode of the Communicating Purpose podcast with Andreas Bock, Head of Communications at the European Council on Foreign Relations.Before joining ECFR, Andreas worked at n-ost, a journalist network and media NGO dedicated to cross-border journalism and foreign reporting across Europe. As head of the editorial department for eurotopics.net, he led the daily European press review and organised trainings on access to information, data journalism, and media freedom.Earlier in his career, Andreas served as a project manager for the Institute for Foreign Cultural Relations in Budapest and worked as a freelance journalist for various print media outlets.In this episode, we discussed:🌍 How ECFR advocates for a stronger Europe in a fragmented world dominated by global powers like the US, China, and Russia📰 The power of strategic communications in foreign policy, including how ECFR’s advocacy helped secure German approval for sending Leopard 2 battle tanks to Ukraine🎙 Why think tanks matter, and how ECFR influences European governments through expert research, media engagement, and behind-the-scenes diplomacy🌍 The evolving role of Europe in global affairs, including Andreas’ perspective on the Israel-Palestine conflict and the need for Europe to play a bigger role in peace negotiationsI hope you enjoy.John Higginson,Founder & CEO, Higginson Strategy
It’s my pleasure to share with you the latest episode of the Communicating Purpose podcast with Hugo Tagholm, Executive Director and Vice President of Oceana.Hugo previously led the ocean campaigning charity Surfers Against Sewage, taking action from the beach front to the front benches of Parliament, and securing government legislation to protect our seas across four environmental pillars – plastic pollution, water quality, climate change and rewilding our ocean.Hugo founded the Plastic Free Communities movement, the Million Mile Beach Clean & the Plastic Free Awards. He is also a founding member of the Global Wave Conference.He was recently awarded a Doctorate of Science by Exeter University for his services to the marine environment, and was recognised as Environmentalist of the Year 2021 by the Save the Waves coalition.In this episode, we discussed:🌟How shifting the climate conversation from nature protection to human prosperity can drive real change📶 Why the decline of North Sea oil and gas jobs is inevitable—and how renewables can create high-skilled careers for all🤳 Oceana's global success stories—from saving whales to banning sand eel fishing—that prove international cooperation works🔊 What past crises like the ozone hole and the pandemic teach us about the power of urgent, collective actionI hope you enjoy.John Higginson, Higginson Strategy
It’s my pleasure to share with you the latest episode of the Communicating Purpose podcast with Nicola Green, Chief Communications and Corporate Affairs Officer at Virgin Media O2.Nicola is responsible for Public Affairs, Corporate Responsibility & Sustainability, Internal and External Communications. She joined the company in 2003 as Head of Media and under her leadership, helped O2 achieve the highest corporate reputation in the sector.Nicola is a communications industry figurehead, an active campaigner for Women in PR and a regular feature in PR Week’s UK Power Book.In this episode, we discussed:🌟How Nicola helped transformed the Millennium Dome into the world-renowned O2 Arena📶The behind-the-scenes story of integrating two telecommunications powerhouses into one seamless brand🤳How Virgin Media O2’s National Databank initiative is levelling access to digital connectivity🔊Nicola’s insider tips and strategies for navigating high-stakes crisis communications with confidenceI hope you enjoy.John Higginson,Founder & CEO, Higginson Strategy
It’s my pleasure to share with you the latest episode of the Communicating Purpose podcast with Pam Cowburn, Head of Communications and Campaigns at the Open Rights Group. Founded in 2005, ORG is the UK’s leading and largest grassroots digital rights and privacy campaigning organisation. They work to protect individuals’ rights to privacy and free speech online. Its current campaigns revolve around two major pieces of legislation: the Online Safety Act and the Data Bill.Pam has held senior communications positions at a number of human rights organisations, including criminal justice NGO, Fair Trials, and the freedom of expression organisation, Index on Censorship. She has also worked as a consultant for UNICEF, Survival International and ARTICLE 19.She has generated media coverage and created communications for campaigns on a wide range of issues, from surveillance, online censorship and data protection to children’s privacy, AI in criminal justice and pre-trial detention.In this episode, we discussed: 🔒 How the Open Rights Group is safeguarding digital privacy and free speech📰 How media exclusivity can shape—or stifle—public discourse on critical issues🤝 Why collaboration between media, public affairs, and grassroots activism is key to policy change📢How Open Rights Group delayed the government's flawed e-visa rolloutI hope you enjoy.John Higginson, Higginson Strategy
It’s my pleasure to share with you the latest episode of the Communicating Purpose podcast with Kerrina Thorogood, Partnerships Director at the Fairtrade Foundation.The Fairtrade Foundation is a UK charity supporting disadvantages producers by setting social, economic, and environmental standards for farmers and workers in the "first mile" of the supply chain.Kerrina’s work at the FF involves working with supermarkets across the UK to ensure responsible sourcing of the food sold.With nearly two decades' experience of securing charity sector partnerships, Kerrina previously served as Head of Partnerships at WWF for 14 years - a role in which she supported Tesco to half the environmental impact of its groceries, which later facilitated the 'Retailer's Commitment for Nature'.Kerrina has also worked in partnerships for Breakthrough Breast Cancer, following a career in the Japan Ministry of Economist, Trade and Industry, where she promoted Japan to British multinationals as a market for foreign investment. In this episode, we discussed: 🌍Why Kerrina pivoted her career to champion social issues ⏩How the Fairtrade Foundation is closing the gap between climate awareness and climate action👥The importance of amplifying the voices of those on the frontline🌱Why "tokenistic" partnerships no longer succeed, and the shift towards substantial, "sustainable" collaborations🗣️Why Fairtrade Foundation is embracing bolder, more courageous communications in2025I hope you enjoy.John Higginson, Higginson Strategy
As the year comes to a close, it's my pleasure to bring you the culminating episode of the Communicating Purpose podcast for 2024—a celebration of the remarkable conversations and insights we’ve shared this year.This special compilation highlights some of my favourite moments with accomplished purpose-driven leaders, with anecdotes and actionable wisdom from some of the most visionary communicators and founders of our time.Over the past year, I’ve had the privilege of speaking with individuals tackling the world’s biggest challenges—from the Director of Communications at the National Trust, to the Founder of anti-homophobia charity, the Naz and Matt Foundation.Tune in as I reflect on the powerful stories and learn more about the people and organisations defining what it means to communicate with purpose.Don’t miss this inspiring wrap-up to an incredible year!I hope you enjoy.John Higginson,Founder & CEO, Higginson Strategy
It’s my pleasure to share with you the latest episode of the Communicating Purpose podcast with Beth Knight, Head of Social Sustainability at Lloyds Banking.Beth is a recognised leader in social impact and sustainability, with over 15 years of experience and the title of ‘Great British Businesswoman of the Year’ in 2022.Since 2016, she has been a Senior Associate at the University of Cambridge Institute for Sustainability Leadership (CISL). Her work spans female empowerment and corporate sustainability, driving initiatives that advanced diversity, closed gender representation gaps, and tackled pay inequities in the tech sector.Previously, Beth led Amazon’s European social impact programs, overseeing humanitarian aid for the Ukraine War, disaster relief, and pandemic response efforts.Beth also serves as a Non-Executive Director at VisitBritain and Chair of Save the Children International’s Corporate Advisory Board, leveraging her corporate social and environmental sustainability expertise to further their missions.In this episode, we discussed.⚖️Beth's role in advancing intersectional access to financial support⏮️The advantages of a 'working backwards' approach🌎Examining how communication and sustainability professionals can align to bring complex mission statements to life🚭Can purpose drive traditionally controversial industries like defence and tobacco?I hope you enjoy.John Higginson,Founder & CEO, Higginson Strategy