Leaders in Business

In this powerful episode of Leaders in Business, host Marlene Lowe speaks with Amy Callaghan, former Member of Parliament for East Dunbartonshire and current Strategic Political Adviser at Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland. Amy's story is one of extraordinary resilience, marked by life-altering health events that redirected her path from teaching to politics to advocacy.Amy's journey began at age 19 with a melanoma diagnosis that opened her eyes to health inequalities in the West of Scotland. This experience, combined with support from Teenage Cancer Trust, transformed her aspirations from becoming a teacher to entering politics to create systemic change. She witnessed firsthand how young people with cancer needed greater psychological and financial support, and how many preventable deaths resulted from health inequalities.After working as a staffer in the Scottish Parliament at Holyrood—which she describes as a "modern functioning parliament"—Amy stood for Westminster and achieved a remarkable victory in 2019, defeating the incumbent leader of a Westminster party by just 149 votes. However, her time as an MP was immediately challenged by the COVID-19 pandemic, followed by a severe brain haemorrhage that left her navigating Parliament as a young woman with an acquired disability.The conversation reveals the stark contrast between Holyrood and Westminster, particularly regarding accessibility and support for disabled MPs. Amy had to campaign for the basic right to a proxy vote whilst recovering from her brain injury—an experience she describes as "resentful" but one that left a positive legacy for future MPs with disabilities.Amy speaks candidly about authentic leadership, distinguishing between showing up when you shouldn't (which she did) versus being true to yourself by acknowledging capacity limits. Her cyclical grief over her acquired disability, leadership challenges during the pandemic whilst consuming information simultaneously with constituents, and the pressure of being perceived as strong when feeling vulnerable paint a realistic picture of leadership under extraordinary circumstances.Now at Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland, Amy works on the very rehabilitation programme that helped her regain independence—including the seemingly small but profoundly significant goal of being able to put on her own bra so she could wear power suits in Parliament. The programme challenges outdated scientific evidence about stroke recovery timelines, proving that neuroplasticity continues far longer than previously believed.The episode concludes with Amy's passionate call to protect democracy, encouraging listeners to research candidates thoroughly, align votes with personal values, and actively lobby their elected representatives. Her message is clear: every vote counts, and democracy requires active participation, not passive observation.

In this captivating episode of Leaders in Business, host Marlene Lowe discovers an unexpected connection with guest Hamish Taylor—both with roots in Zambia's Copper Belt, setting the stage for a conversation filled with personal insights and professional wisdom. Hamish's remarkable career journey spans from Procter & Gamble's rigorous brand management training to transforming customer experience across British Airways, Eurostar, and Sainsbury's Bank.Hamish's story begins with his education at St Andrews University and an MBA in America during the early days when MBAs weren't popular in Europe. His first claim to fame was becoming "the UK's leading expert on housewives' toilet cleaning habits" at Procter & Gamble—an experience that taught him the fundamental principle that would define his career: it's not about your product, it's about the customer benefit.The conversation reveals how Hamish thrived as "the outsider"—the non-banker running a bank, the non-railwayman running a railway. His philosophy centres on the Procter & Gamble principle of customer benefit over product features, which he brilliantly demonstrated at British Airways with the "arrive ready for business" promise that revolutionised business class travel with innovations like arrival lounges and pre-flight dining.Hamish candidly discusses his career transitions, admitting he "gets bored easily" and explaining how each move taught him that technical brilliance isn't enough—the missing piece is always putting the customer at the centre. His turnaround experiences at Eurostar (starting with a £206 million loss, no service due to Channel Tunnel fire, and striking French workers) and Sainsbury's Bank showcase his ability to transform product-led organisations into customer-centric businesses.The episode explores three levels of customer experience: product quality, customer experience, and emotional connection. Hamish argues that whilst product competence is essential, true differentiation comes from how you make customers feel—citing Disney's "magical surprises" and Starbucks' experience-driven success.Personal insights emerge as Hamish reveals his biggest weaknesses: not being tough enough and struggling with managing upwards, which ultimately led him to leave corporate life for consulting and speaking. The discussion touches on recruitment philosophy, the importance of passion in work, and the challenge of institutional memory loss when experienced leaders leave organisations. Hamish advocates for thinking beyond job titles to focus on the benefits others receive from your expertise, embodying his core principle that "everything we ever do is about somebody else's success.

In this deeply personal episode of Leaders in Business, host Marlene Lowe sits down with her close friend and colleague, Professor Sonia Aitken, CEO of Pain Association Scotland and Visiting Professor at York St John University. What begins as a conversation between friends reveals the extraordinary journey of a leader who transformed multiple redundancies into resilience and found her true calling in the third sector.Sonia's story starts with teenage rebellion—defying her mother's wishes to pursue higher education when banking seemed like the "safe" career choice. Her path took her through export sales, banking, insurance, and multiple redundancies that she now recognises as building blocks of resilience. Each setback became a stepping stone, ultimately leading her to Pain Association Scotland 15 years ago, where she's transformed from administrator to CEO.The conversation explores the myth that charities don't need to operate like businesses, with Sonia passionately arguing that sound business practices are essential for third sector survival. As both women share a commitment to running organisations with business rigour whilst maintaining heart-centred missions, their friendship exemplifies how professional networks can evolve into meaningful personal connections.Sonia candidly discusses her reputation as an "ice queen" in previous roles, revealing how passion for results can be misinterpreted as coldness. She advocates for situational leadership—adapting style based on context whilst never losing authenticity. Her recent appointment as Visiting Professor demonstrates how expertise gained through lived experience can enhance academic learning.The episode tackles the unique challenges facing charity leaders today, from government bureaucracy to the dilution of chronic pain within broader "long-term conditions" categories. Sonia's frustration with unnecessary obstacles and lack of common sense in systems resonates as she advocates for more sensible, passion-driven leadership across all sectors.

In this captivating episode of Leaders in Business, host Marlene Lowe interviews Julie Ashworth, Chair of the Institute of Directors for Scotland. Julie shares her unconventional career path from filling shelves at Tesco to leading organizations across multiple sectors. Her story takes a dramatic turn when she left corporate life to participate in the Round the World yacht race—despite not being able to swim or sail.Julie's career spans retail giants like Tesco, Liberty of London, and Marks & Spencer, as well as IBM's transition from hardware to professional services. Throughout her journey, she founded Broadreach, a leadership consultancy, whilst simultaneously holding executive roles. Her leadership philosophy centres on leaving people better than you found them and championing others when they're not in the room.The conversation explores themes of career transitions, the importance of networks, giving back to communities, and the evolving nature of leadership across generations. Julie reflects on succession planning challenges and how five generations currently exist in today's workplace, with 70% of senior leadership positions held by baby boomers whilst younger generations bring different expectations and communication preferences.

In this episode of Leaders in Business, host Marlene Lowe sits down with Jane-Claire Judson, Chief Executive of Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland, to explore what it truly means to lead with purpose, humility, and fierce competence. From her early days in student politics to the halls of the Scottish Parliament and into the heart of third sector leadership, Jane-Claire shares the twists, turns, and mentors that shaped her path.They discuss the value of consistency over charisma, building legacy beyond ego, and the often-overlooked power of stepping back. With reflections on personal growth, navigating imposter moments, and the unexpected leadership tool of a great playlist, this conversation offers a grounded yet inspiring take on what it means to lead well—and to live a life that’s fully your own.Three Reflections to Take With You As we close this conversation, here are three powerful reflections that Jane-Claire encourages us all to consider:Know Your CompassYou won’t always get to work in perfect alignment with your values—but you must know what they are. Understanding your stretch points helps you make better decisions and stay anchored in what truly matters.Read Widely, Think DeeplyWhether it’s the back of a cereal box or a complex autobiography, reading invites you into other worlds and perspectives. The broader your input, the richer your thinking.Build Your Leadership PlaylistEveryone needs a personal soundtrack—a few songs that lift you, energise you, and remind you who you are when the stakes are high. Curate it, use it, and let it power you through the moments that matter.

In this thought-provoking episode of Leaders in Business, Marlene Lowe sits down with John McMorris, Director of Business Development at the Scottish Qualifications Authority, for a conversation that traverses continents, career paths, and the deeper purpose of leadership. From the semiconductor floors of Japan to the educational corridors of Sri Lanka, John’s journey is defined by curiosity, adaptability, and a profound respect for culture.What unfolds is a masterclass in global business development—anchored not just in strategy, but in humanity. John shares how honour, presence, and long-term thinking have shaped his approach to leadership and helped forge trust across borders. He speaks candidly about the tensions between risk and growth, the subtle art of cultural integration, and why education must be seen as a global currency—one that empowers movement, opportunity, and equity.This episode is rich with insight for anyone who leads, who learns, or who believes in building something that will outlast them. With humility and clarity, John reflects on the responsibilities of being a director, the lessons he’s drawn from global travel, and the joy of watching small ideas become legacy projects.If you’ve ever wondered how to lead across cultures, bridge business with meaning, or plant seeds you may never see bloom—this one’s for you.

In this vibrant and unfiltered conversation, Marlene Lowe welcomes Sandra Dailidyte—wealth manager, Lithuanian-born powerhouse, and British Masters weightlifting champion—to the Leaders in Business podcast. What follows is a bold and honest exploration of ambition, identity, and the drive to create space for women in rooms where they’ve historically been overlooked.From her early days in post-Soviet Lithuania to landing in the UK with £550 and a one-way ticket, Sandra shares her extraordinary path to success in wealth management—and how she has built a career that unapologetically blends intellect, empathy, and strength, both mental and physical. She opens up about the challenges of forging a new path in a new country, the emotional cost of striving, and the joy of finally feeling fully herself in her work.Together, Marlene and Sandra delve into the psychology of stress, the need for emotional integrity in leadership, and the immense power of financial literacy—especially for women. With humour, depth, and fierce clarity, Sandra offers not only a masterclass in determination but a passionate call to dream bigger, take up space, and lift others as you rise.Whether you’re a business owner, a first-generation dreamer, or simply seeking a spark to reignite your fire, this episode is a powerful reminder: the path may not be clear, but you can still choose to walk it with purpose—and joy.

In this deeply engaging episode of Leaders in Business, host Marlene Lowe welcomes veteran recruiter Ivan McGeorge for a conversation that moves far beyond the mechanics of hiring. With candour, humour, and heartfelt reflection, Ivan charts his unexpected journey into recruitment—from dreams of a political career and chance encounters at Stirling University, to decades spent matching people to purpose.Together, they explore the profound impact of mentorship, the quiet art of active listening, and the enduring power of authenticity in business. Ivan speaks to the emotional weight of the recruitment cycle—its highs, its heartbreaks, and the lessons held in both. With a gentle honesty, he reveals how he has learned to navigate setbacks, embrace vulnerability, and ground himself through human connection, personal fitness, and, of course, endless cups of coffee.This is not just an episode about recruitment. It is a conversation about life, about showing up as you are, and about building meaningful relationships in a world that too often values transaction over truth. Whether you’re in business, at a crossroads, or simply seeking insight into what it means to listen—really listen—this one is worth your time.

In this powerful and profoundly moving episode of Leaders in Business, host Marlene Lowe speaks with journalist, advocate, and changemaker Sophie Dow—whose life has been defined not only by global headlines and celebrity interviews, but by a deeply personal mission to reframe how society understands neurodiversity.Sophie shares the remarkable journey that took her from the newsrooms of Swedish television to the glittering world of film star interviews in London, and ultimately to the founding of Mindroom, a charity dedicated to supporting neurodivergent individuals and their families. Born of love and necessity following the birth of her daughter Annie—who lives with a rare neurological profile now known as “Annie’s Syndrome”—Mindroom has become Sophie’s third child and life’s calling.With grace, humour, and unwavering conviction, Sophie reflects on the challenges of navigating an often unsympathetic system, the transformative power of listening, and the urgent need for societal change. Together, Marlene and Sophie explore what it means to lead with empathy, the importance of inclusive narratives, and why dignity must be at the heart of every conversation about difference.This episode is both a tribute to the power of personal resolve and a clarion call for a kinder, more compassionate world. It’s about journalism and justice, science and spirit—and the quiet but unshakable belief that every life deserves to be understood, celebrated, and loved.

In this episode of the Leaders in Business podcast, Marlene Lowe interviews Richard Scaife, a director at the Keil Centre, who shares his journey from aspiring pilot to psychologist. Richard discusses his early interest in psychology, the importance of human factors in various industries, and his experiences in occupational psychology. He emphasises the significance of understanding human behaviour in safety and performance improvement, as well as the challenges of leadership and the balance between personal and professional life.In this engaging conversation, Richard and Marlene explore the complexities of personal and business identity, the impact of AI on the workforce, and the importance of critical thinking in navigating modern challenges. They discuss fostering creativity and psychological safety within organisations, the potential for life beyond Earth, and the significance of building trust while embracing failure as a learning opportunity. The dialogue emphasises the need for leaders to unlock hidden talents within their teams and adapt to the evolving landscape of work.

In this episode of the Leaders in Business podcast, Marlene Lowe interviews Rosemary Eribé, founder of Eribé Knitwear. Rosemary shares her journey from a naive graduate to a successful entrepreneur in the textile industry. She discusses the challenges she faced starting her business, the importance of education and mentorship, and her vision for creating beautiful knitwear that honours Scottish heritage. Rosemary emphasises the significance of understanding customer needs and adapting to change in business, reflecting on her proudest moments and achievements along the way. In this conversation, Marlene and Rosemary explore the themes of embracing opportunities, resilience in the face of challenges, and the importance of creativity and imagination in business. They discuss the unexpected pivots in Rosemary's career, the balance between boundaries and creativity, and the significance of sustainable practices in the fashion industry. The conversation highlights the joy that can be created through business and the need for personal expression in fashion.

In this episode of the Leaders in Business podcast, host Marlene Lowe interviews Ken Thompson, a recently retired principal of Forth Valley College. Ken shares his fascinating journey from aspiring animal behaviourist to a leader in education, discussing his innovative approaches to leadership, the importance of creating a culture of innovation, and his experiences engaging with staff and students. He emphasises the significance of belief in leadership and the need for collaboration across disciplines to foster creative learning initiatives. In this engaging conversation, Ken Thomson shares his innovative approaches to health and safety training, emphasising the importance of real-world experience for students. He discusses the significance of passion in job interviews and the need to streamline bureaucracy in education. Ken introduces his 'Pandas' initiative aimed at identifying and eliminating unnecessary processes while also highlighting the importance of empowerment and responsibility in leadership. He reflects on the value of learning from experience, taking risks, and the role of innovative projects in education. The discussion also touches on leadership lessons, the importance of reflection and journaling, and Ken's fulfilling life after retirement.

In this episode of the Leaders in Business podcast, Marlene Lowe and Claire Winskill engage with Joanne Alday, Head of Strategy and Business Development at Port of Cromarty Firth. The conversation explores various themes of leadership, particularly focusing on the evolution of leadership styles, the importance of authenticity, and the dynamics of gender in leadership roles. Joanne shares her experiences in a male-dominated industry, the significance of supportive networks among women, and her journey in inspiring the next generation to pursue careers in green industries. The discussion also touches on non-traditional career paths and the value of diverse experiences in professional development. In this engaging conversation, the speakers discuss their experiences with education, professional development, and the challenges of leadership. They explore the importance of in-person learning, overcoming exam anxiety, and the impact of imposter syndrome. The discussion also delves into governance in organisations, the challenges faced in the third sector, and the significance of qualified directors. Additionally, they reflect on the appeal of living in the Highlands and the importance of connecting with nature.

In this episode of the Leaders in Business podcast, Marlene Lowe speaks with Cameron McCready, Chief Executive at Homestar Aberdeen. They discuss Cameron's extensive experience in the third sector, the importance of addressing stigma around seeking help, and the pressing issue of poverty affecting families in Aberdeen. Cameron shares insights on how social isolation impacts parents of young children and emphasises the need for community support and resilience-building initiatives. The conversation highlights the interconnectedness of various social issues and the importance of grassroots efforts to create meaningful change. In this conversation, Cameron discusses the multifaceted challenges individuals and families face, emphasising the importance of prevention and early intervention in addressing these issues. He highlights the economic sense of supporting those in need before they reach a crisis point. Cameron also shares insights into his leadership style, the value of volunteering, and the impact of lived experiences on his approach to leadership. The discussion touches on the significance of recognising when to seek help and the importance of community support while also addressing the pervasive issue of imposter syndrome among leaders.

In this episode of the Leaders in Business podcast, Marlene and Catherine discuss the Institute of Directors' focus on its three pillars: connect, develop, and influence. They reflect on the past year's achievements, including the addition of over 220 new members and the successful delivery of numerous events. The conversation also highlights the importance of the State of the Nation survey in shaping policy discussions and amplifying members' voices in the political landscape. In this conversation, Catherine and Marlene discuss the embedding of entrepreneurial skills in education, the insights from the State of the Nation report, and the preparations for the upcoming Scottish elections. They delve into the Chartered Director Program and its impact on leadership development, the expansion of educational opportunities in Scotland, and the importance of professional development for members. The conversation emphasizes the value of membership benefits and the need for ongoing engagement with members to shape future directions.

In this episode of the Leaders in Business podcast, Marlene Lowe interviews Lucinda Godfrey, the Chief Executive of ACOSVO. They discuss Lucinda's journey in leadership, her evolving perspective on what it means to be a leader, and the importance of authenticity and creativity in leadership roles. Lucinda shares her passion for empowering young voices and her commitment to social justice. The conversation also delves into the challenges of leadership, the significance of self-care, and the new strategic plan for voluntary sector leaders, emphasising the need for resilience, influence, and trust in the sector.

In this conversation, Marlene Lowe and Sam Sheppard delve into the complexities of introversion, exploring its neurobiological underpinnings, societal perceptions, and the challenges introverts face in the workplace. Sam shares her journey of understanding introversion and the importance of recognising and supporting introverted individuals in corporate environments. The discussion emphasises the need for a shift in workplace culture to value introverted traits and create inclusive environments that cater to diverse personality types. In this conversation, Sam and Marlene delve into the challenges faced by introverted employees in the workplace, discussing the biases that often lead to their voices being overlooked. They explore the importance of understanding introversion, the impact of workplace culture on mental health, and the need for organisations to adapt to the diverse needs of their employees. The discussion also highlights successful introverts and the role of labels in fostering self-awareness, as well as the complexities of intersectionality in the workplace.

Join Catherine McWilliam and Marlene Lowe as we welcome the festive seasons and set you up for what to expect in 2025.

In this episode of the Leaders in Business podcast, Marlene Lowe interviews Andrew Morrison, a seasoned entrepreneur and former owner of AMBid. Andrew shares his journey from local government to the world of bidding and entrepreneurship, emphasising the importance of strategic thinking, political neutrality in business, and the intricacies of the bidding process. He also discusses his experience in building and successfully selling his business, highlighting key strategies and lessons learned along the way. In this conversation, Andrew Morrison shares his experiences navigating the challenges of running a business during the COVID-19 pandemic, emphasising the importance of strategic agility and the ability to adapt to changing circumstances. He discusses the significance of acknowledging uncertainty and the value of seeking help when needed. After selling his business, Andrew reflects on the lessons learned and the importance of preparing for a business sale, introducing his new venture, Business Sale Basecamp, which aims to assist business owners in getting ready for sale. He highlights the need to maintain business performance during negotiations and the emotional aspects of selling a business.

In this conversation, Marlene Lowe interviews Pauline Radcliffe, Chief Executive of the SCQF Partnership, discussing her diverse career journey, the importance of values in leadership, and the challenges faced in aligning personal ethics with professional responsibilities. They explore the concept of recognition of prior learning as a solution to workforce development and the impact of rising costs on education and employment. The discussion also highlights the role of technology in shaping the future of business and education, emphasizing the need for adaptability and collaboration in a rapidly changing environment. In this conversation, Marlene Lowe and Pauline Jean Radcliffe explore the themes of sustainability in business practices, the importance of vocational education, corporate responsibility in employment, and the nuances of effective leadership. They discuss the need for a shift in Scotland's educational policies to recognize diverse learning pathways and the role of businesses in adapting to changing workforce needs. The conversation also delves into the value of failure in leadership and the importance of adaptability in leadership styles to meet the needs of different situations and individuals.