Leaders in Conversation with Anni Townend

ABOUT THIS EPISODEToday’s guest is Lisa Partridge, communication skills specialist, facilitator, founder of SIXCOMMS and host of the SIXCOMMS podcast. I had the joy of getting to know Lisa through following each other on LinkedIn, and through our shared passion for working in nature with leaders. Lisa invites people to ‘Come Curious, and Leave Connected’.In our conversation Lisa offers valuable insights into:The 3Cs of human-centred effective communication: Connection, Curiosity and Compassion;The benefits of taking conversations outside in nature;How being in nature allows us to listen more deeply and be more present with ourselves and each other;How taking our conversations outside in nature can unlock insight and give us the clarity to see the path ahead.Lisa’s Three Key Encouragements to Leaders:Connection first, always.Step outside to see inside.Slow down to lead strong.About Lisa:Originally from the UK and based in Singapore since 2009, Lisa Partridge is a communication skills specialist, facilitator, and founder of SIXCOMMS. She has worked with leading organisations including Singapore Airlines, Marina Bay Sands, Maxwell Chambers, and ADB Bank. Guided by her 6Cs of Effective Communication: Connection, Curiosity, Compassion, Clarity, Customization, and Consistency, Lisa helps leaders and teams communicate with greater impact. She also hosts The SIXCOMMS Podcast, now with over 70 episodes, and leads 6Cs walking sessions in Singapore’s parks, where a community of professionals “Come Curious, Leave Connected.”To connect, follow and find out more about Lisa:LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/lisasing/Website: www.sixcomms.orgInstagram: @sixcommslisaYouTube: www.youtube.com/@sixcommsconversations2025Lisa's Podcast: sixcomms.buzzsprout.comFree download: The 6Cs of a Thriving Communicator GuideTo listen to other Leaders in Conversation with me Anni Townend go to my website, www.annitownend.com; to listen to Finding Your Collaborative Edge with Lucy Kidd and I, to do go our website www.Collaboration.Equation.

ABOUT THIS EPISODEI had the joy of meeting Karen via an online supervision group organised by EY in collaboration with Henley Business School. Karen has written a book, Breaking the Coaching Code - how great coaches transcend the rules published in November 2025. In our conversation Karen offers valuable insights into:What it means to walk home to yourself. The journey to and of self-acceptance. And having a social conscience.Karen’s key encouragements to Leaders:Reconnect with your unique self rather than trying to be what you think a good leader isUnderstand your strengths and be clear about your purpose Build your ability to have effective conversations with clarity, compassion, curiosity and courageAbout  Karen:Karen Foy has been coaching since 2003, her background before coaching was in the NHS working locally, regionally and nationally on policy related to patient experience. She caught the coaching bug on an Open University summer school whilst undertaking a module from the MBA on Creativity, Innovation and Change thinking about creativity innovation and change.She heard about this thing called coaching and thought, that’s the thing she does when she’s supposed to be working and was blown away that she could do it as a career. She trained as a coach, built her business alongside her work, and then jumped in 2007 to become a full-time coach.She already had a first degree in psychology and the next step for her was to undertake a master’s degree in Coaching Psychology which she gained in 2011. She is a Master Certified Coach with the International Coach Federation, a Certified Mentor for ICF Credentials and she has a Professional Certificate in Coaching Supervision from Henley Business School.She has recently retired from her lecturing role at Henley Business School where she was the Programme Director for Accredited Coaching Programmes. Joining an academic institution was a crash course in acceptance as she is a Yorkshire woman from a ‘dyed in the wool’ working class background who left school at 14 with no qualifications.She has come to a place where she is more able to welcome her gremlin of not being good enough as the gift it is to her coaching.To connect with Karen:Website: www.thecoachtribe.comLinkedIn: @Karen Foy, MCCTo listen to other Leaders in Conversation with Anni Townend: Go to my website, www.annitownend.comA big thank you to SHMOGUS Media for the wonderful production and marketing of the podcast.To contact me Anni Townend do email me on anni@annitownend.com visit my website www.annitownend.com, subscribe to my newsletter and follow me on LinkedIn. To find out more about Collaboration Equation, do go to our website www.collaborationequation.com and follow us on LinkedIn. I look forward to connecting with you, thank you for listening.

ABOUT THIS EPISODEI had the joy of meeting Tim when he came to speak on the Marketing Leaders Programme some years ago.  I had previously heard about his amazing adventures with the Lost Gardens of Heligan and the Eden Project in Cornwall, the UK, from a mutual friend.I then had the pleasure of meeting again at Anthropy 25 which was hosted at the Eden Project, a gathering of leaders and organisations to inspire and learn through meaningful collaboration, human kindness and unbound leadership.In our conversation Tim offers valuable insights into:Losing your fear of being dislikedDaring to dreamEnjoying provocationKnowing your weaknessesTim’s Key Encouragements to Leaders:Dare to have your dreams and then deliver on them or give them up and do something else. Defeat the look in people's eyes or the tone in people's voices, which says, this isn't for the likes of you.Embrace those dancing lessons from God, these random meetings, and you'll be amazed at how your life changes.Always hire people that are better than you and tell them how much better than you they are. To find out more about Anthropy 2026 go to anthropy.uk, the Anthropy Charter is made up of Human Kindness, Meaningful Collaboration and Unbound Leadership.To read about, and visit Heligan, heligan.comTo read about Eden Project edenproject.com and to learn about other Eden Projects including Eden Morecambe all reconnecting people with nature, and all that we can learn and with nature.To listen to other Leaders in Conversation with me Anni Townend go to my website, www.annitownend.comA big thank you to SHMOGUS Media for the wonderful production and marketing of the podcast.To contact me Anni Townend do email me on anni@annitownend.com visit my website www.annitownend.com, subscribe to my newsletter and follow me on LinkedIn. To find out more about Collaboration Equation, co-founded by Lucy Kidd and I, go to www.collaborationequation.com I look forward to connecting with you, thank you for listening.

ABOUT THIS EPISODEI had the joy of meeting Rachel through The Marketing Society, and over the years of getting to know her through her love of the Walk and Talk, her excellent marketing and most recently through the Marketing Leaders Programme.In our conversation Rachel offers valuable insights into:How to recognise and prevent organisational burnout;The business case for a positive mindset at work;The strategic power of content as a business driver when it serves brand objectives and real human needs;And finally building brand reputation through stakeholder engagement.Rachel’s Three Key Encouragements to Leaders:Align Your Strategic Vision with Personal Purpose.Build Excellence Through Audience-Led Thinking.Embrace the Power of Integrated Leadership.About RachelRachel Letham is Head of Brand and Communications at The Marketing Society, where she leads strategic brand development and integrated communications for the global membership organisation. As a key member of the Leadership Team, she has established the function as a centre of excellence, implementing bold, audience-led strategies that drive measurable improvements in brand visibility and stakeholder engagement.With over 13 years of experience in strategic communications and brand development, Rachel combines commercial expertise with creative vision to transform organisations through innovative content strategies. At The Marketing Society, she oversees the development of impactful communications and content, ensuring consistent messaging while pioneering new approaches to enhance brand reputation and member engagement.Alongside her corporate role, Rachel is a certified positive mindset coach, working with global organisations including Google, Target, and Kargo. This unique combination allows her to bring fresh perspectives to brand challenges, helping both individuals and organisations align their strategic goals with purposeful vision-setting. Her approach was shaped by her own experience of near-burnout in the fresh produce industry, leading her to develop sustainable approaches to professional growth and team development.As a leader, Rachel is known for building and inspiring high-performing teams, fostering cultures of innovation and strategic thinking. She maintains a strong focus on data-driven decision-making and measurable outcomes, while ensuring that brand and content strategies deliver genuine business impact. Her work demonstrates the power of combining strategic brand thinking with positive mindset techniques to drive organisational success.Through both her role at The Marketing Society and her coaching practice, Rachel helps organisations and individuals unleash their full potential, creating meaningful change through the intersection of strategic communication, brand development, and personal growth.Connect with Rachel:LinkedIn: Rachel LethamWebsite: www.rachelletham.com, www.marketingsociety.comInstagram: @rachellethamTo listen to other Leaders in Conversation with Anni Townend:Go to my website, www.annitownend.comA big thank you to SHMOGUS Media Management for the wonderful production and marketing of the podcast.To contact me Anni Townend do email me on a...

ABOUT THIS EPISODEMy conversation today is with Anna Deacon, photographer, writer and wild swimmer. I had the joy of meeting Anna at the Creative Light Photography Festival in the Highlands of Scotland in October 2022.  I was inspired by her, and by her many, many books on Wild Swimming. In our conversation Anna offers valuable insights into:How and why the wild swimming project started.Getting comfortable with being uncomfortable.How to find your peace in the wild/outdoors.Anna’s three Key Encouragements to Leaders Don’t be afraid to change things up/take risksBelieve in your gut intuitionDon’t write yourself off before you have really tried somethingAbout AnnaAnna has worked as a photographer since 2007, specialising in wild swimming, portraits, nature and travel. She has worked with large and small brands like MINI, Speedo, Kit Kat, Visit Scotland, Cape Cove, Selkie and more to create content. Her photography work has been published extensively in the national press including The Guardian, The Telegraph, Stylist and The Scotsman. She has also had her work featured in large scale photography exhibitions. Since 2019 Anna has had seven books published, working with co-author Vicky Allan on Taking The Plunge (2019), For The Love Of Trees (2020), The Art Of Wild Swimming series (Scotland, 2021, England & Wales, 2021, and Ireland, 2022, The Ripple Effect published in 2023 and  Swimming Wild Ireland in 2024, all published by Black and White Publishing/Bonnier.  Also in 2021 The Wild Guide Balearic Islands book was published by Wild Things Publishing, this extensive travel guide was co-written by Anna and her sister Lizzie Graham. Anna is working on her ninth book which is due for publication in Autumn 2026.  Anna hosts a popular Instagram page @wildswimmingstories which The Sunday Times magazine named as one of the Top 7 influencers to follow in the ‘Health and Fitness’ category in 2023.  Previous to this Anna worked in the music and entertainment industry in London for over a decade, specialising in PR and events such as NME Awards, Isle of Wight Festival, Ibiza Rocks, MOBO Awards, British Comedy Awards and Teenage Cancer Trust concerts. She co-founded the PR agency Amazing Media in 2004 who were at the forefront of working with brands such as Nokia, T- Mobile, Diageo and O2 to create dynamic partnerships with the live music industry.  Anna also worked in talent handling and personal PR for The Who, Jamiroquai, Anastacia, Beverley Knight, Sia, Big Brother, and many others. Connect with Anna:LinkedIn: @Anna DeaconWebsite: www.anna-deacon.comInstagram: @wildswimmingstoriesTo listen to other Leaders in Conversation with me Anni Townend go to my website, www.annitownend.comA big thank you to SHMOGUS Media for the wonderful production and marketing of the podcast.To contact me Anni Townend do email me on anni@annitownend.com, subscribe to my newsletter and follow me on LinkedIn.  I look forward to connecting with you, thank you for...

ABOUT THIS EPISODEI had the joy of connecting with Susie through a colleague. I enjoyed our conversation so much that I invited her to be a guest. Susie offers valuable insights into:Following your passion to find your purposeLiving outside your comfort zone as a way to learn and growFinding your balance to enable you to do your best workSusie’s three key encouragements to leaders:Take time to understand what matters to you - so you can enjoy doing what you doGet comfortable being uncomfortable - it’s a source of growthBe confident in finding your own rhythm - and then set your boundaries to stick to itAbout SusieAfter a successful career in marketing at Unilever and British Gas, and then fulfilling her ambition of sailing a yacht around the world, Susie started her next adventure when she founded the strategic marketing agency Blue Feathers.Susie’s aim was to help marketers to be their best and drive their brands to succeed. She now leads a team of marketing experts who work with major brands including Tesco, Primark, Michelin, Simplyhealth and Cambridge University Press & Assessment.Susie believes that people do their best work when life is balanced – and that belief is reflected in how she leads the Blue Feathers team: a highly skilled, fully remote group, motivated through shared purpose and a deliverables-based approach.Susie remains passionate about sailing and loves spending time on the water. She is also now a keen beekeeper and gardener, and enjoys spending time hiking.The best way for people to connect and follow Susie is:LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/susiepartridge/Website: www.bluefeathers.co.uk and www.yachtadina.co.ukTo listen to other Leaders in Conversation with me Anni Townend go to my website, www.annitownend.comA big thank you to SHMOGUS Media for the wonderful production and marketing of the podcast.To contact me Anni Townend do email me on anni@annitownend.com visit my website www.annitownend.com, subscribe to my newsletter and follow me on LinkedIn Anni Townend, and Collaboration Equation.  I look forward to connecting with you, thank you for listening.

ABOUT THIS EPISODEI had the joy of being introduced to Jane through Dawn Harding, a previous podcast guest on Leaders in Conversation and recent guest on Finding Your Collaborative Edge.In our conversation Jane offers valuable insights into:Transitioning in life from one thing to another: School to University, University to the first job, career building and then a massive career change followed by leaving full time work to pursue voluntary roles and enjoying time which is less structured.The ability to let go, to move on without regret and to forge ahead with new adventures: Understanding that you will also lose contact with some people as your lives take different paths.Understanding the impact on others of your deeds, words and attitude.The importance of being authentic, whilst evolving, developing and changing and rocking up as yourself everyday.Jane’s Three Key Encouragements to Leaders: Learn from everyone you meet - everyone has something to give.  Be prepared to know a little about a lot of things and trust the experts in each field to know a lot about a little.Stay  positive.  A positive attitude helps to make those around you positive and if things are going a little bit wrong, it is easier to turn it round with a positive attitude. A smile is infectious.  A frown turns people off.Focus on the difference you are really making.  It is the stories behind the numbers which are of paramount importance.   The balance sheet and Key Performance Indicators are never enough!To connect with Jane, follow and find out more about her:LinkedIn - for her volunteering / corporate side of lifeInstagram - for her wildlife snaps and fun things.To listen to other Leaders in Conversation with me Anni Townend go to my website, www.annitownend.comA big thank you to SHMOGUS Media for the wonderful production and marketing of the podcast.To contact me Anni Townend do email me on anni@annitownend.com visit my website www.annitownend.com, subscribe to my newsletter and follow me on LinkedIn.  I look forward to connecting with you, thank you for listening.About JaneJane has had two different careers in her life, one in the hospitality industry and one in sport. She took learnings from the hospitality industry into her sport leadership role. Now she has moved into voluntary, charity roles and is travelling to many far-flung places where she is learning from different communities. She loves the outdoors, reading and encouraging total strangers to tell her their life stories.

ABOUT THIS EPISODE:In this episode, my guest is Claire Bowden-Hughes, CEO and Founder at En2End, a leading sports fan engagement agency, founded on trust, respect, and reciprocity in relationships and leadership. In our conversation Claire shares valuable insights into: The Balancing Act of thriving as a mother and as an entrepreneur: The real life challenges and triumphs of juggling these 2 demanding but extremely rewarding roles. Excelling in a male dominated industry: The journey of being a female entrepreneur in the sports events world.The art of making lasting connections and exceeding expectations: The importance of building and nurturing a professional network in the sports event industry, how to make lasting connections and how relationships have been pivotal is driving business success.Claire’s three Key Encouragements for life, entrepreneurship and leadership: Define the direction and hold the vision, but invite others into the journey: You have to take space for others to be able to be part of your journey. You won't be able to get there on your own.Stay curious and adaptable because nothing ever stays the same: The landscape is always shifting. Technologies are always evolving, behaviors are always changing. Your attitude sets the tone: The way that you come across, and the energy that you bring is something that can really inspire others and create momentum. Connect with Claire and find out more about her, and her amazing work:LinkedIn: Claire Bowden HughesWebsite: www.en2end.com Instagram: @en2endltdAbout Claire Bowden-Hughes:Early Life and Education: A sheep farmer’s daughter from Mid Wales, Claire Hughes has always been ambitious and adventurous. Her journey began at the University of Central Lancashire, where she pursued a BA in languages ( French, German and Spanish with Tourism), laying the foundation for her career.World Traveller: After university, she embarked on a 9-month world tour, absorbing cultures across Singapore, Australia, Fiji, Hawaii, and America. This global exposure honed her adaptability, cultural sensitivity, and language skills, particularly French, which would become invaluable in her career.Luxury Retail in London: Claire’s first foray into the professional world was in London’s prestigious New Bond Street, where she leveraged her fluency in French to excel in sales and account management for a high-end luxury brand, Lalique. Here, she mastered the art of client relations and high-stakes negotiation.Sports Event Management: Moving to Manchester, Claire joined a small sports events agency, diving into the world of sportsman’s lunches and dinners with notable sporting legends such as Lawrence Dallaglio, Sir Alex Ferguson, Gareth Edwards, Shane Warne, Frank Bruno and more! This role expanded her network significantly and introduced her to the intricacies of event management and sports marketing.TSMGI and Liverpool FC: Her career took a significant turn when she joined TSMGI, an American agency, where she was integral in the Aon-Man Utd shirt deal delivery. Subsequently, at Liverpool FC as Head of Partner Experience, she managed VIP match days, sponsor relations & international event programmes, further honing her skills in stakeholder management and sports...

Leaders in Conversation is the podcast in which leaders share their life and leadership stories; weaving together the people, places and experiences that have shaped their values, beliefs, passion and purpose to encourage and inspire you to be even more confident and courageous in your leadership.ABOUT THIS EPISODEI had the pleasure of meeting Nick through a mutual colleague, Thurstine Basset. Together they were writing a book entitled ‘Trauma, Abandonment and Privilege’ and invited me to contribute something of my own experience. I was delighted to be asked by Nick to review his most recent book, edited by him, and released in April 2025, The Un-Making Of Them - Clinical Reflections on the Boarding School Syndrome.In our conversation Nick offers valuable insights into:Why understanding our emotions is so important in our lives and leadership; The existential dynamics of power and vulnerability, and their relevance and importance to leadership; How dissociation disconnecting from ourselves and our environment - has become the engine of the modern world;The importance of learning about what transference is and group dynamics in leading, coaching, mentoring and facilitation.Nick’s Three Key Encouragements to Leaders - taken from three principles given to Nick by the NHS to help with managing osteoarthritis: Understand your feelings: who you are, so your emotions can guide you rather than your feelings govern you;Exercise: practise new ways of being and behaviour;‘Lose weight’: notice and let go of those things that are no longer serving you in order to be lighter, and to lighten what you are carrying.To Contact Nick:Woundedleadersco.ukBoardingschoolsurvivors.co.ukGenderpsychology.comAbout NickNick Duffell has a degree in Sanskrit from Oxford and is a psychotherapist, psychohistorian and author. His first book, 'The Making of Them: the British Attitude to Children and the Boarding School System' received wide critical acclaim, including endorsements by the British Medical Journal and John Le Carré. Here he set out his pioneering research in group therapy with ‘boarding school survivors,' as he provocatively named adult ex-boarders. Nick co-founded the Centre for Gender Psychology and co-authored 'Sex, Love and the Danger of Intimacy.' A contributor to the University of Surrey Human Potential Group's 'Dictionary of Personal Development' and to many psychological journals, Nick is committed to the development of psychohistory as a tool for understanding current world problems. He is particularly interested in promoting a Depth-Psychology perspective of issues which affect our public life very deeply, such as identity and emotions, fear and vulnerability, but about which political commentators currently lack the means to properly address. His books include ‘Wounded Leaders: British Elitism and the Entitlement Illusion - a Psychohistory,’ 2014, and ‘The SIMPOL Solution: solving global problems could be easier than we think’ with John Bunzl. He contributed chapters to ‘The Political Self,’ (Karnac 2016) and to ‘Humanistic Psychology: Current Trends, Future Prospects’, (Routledge 2017). He has recently worked on an experimental project at UCL to use VR technology in the treatment of developmental trauma, and his latest book 'The Un-Making of Them: Clinical Reflections on Boarding School Syndrome' is published by Routledge in April...

ABOUT THIS EPISODEI had the joy of meeting Cal in person at the Women in Business Golf event that she hosted in September, 2024 and where my colleague Natalie Shering and I led an experiential workshop on leading with confidence. I was inspired before the event and even more so during and after by Cal’s unswerving commitment and passion to enable women to connect and network with each other through playing golf. Cal has created a community of women, who enable, inspire and support each other personally and professionally - on and off the golf course. Cal is on a mission to change the face of women’s golf. In our conversation Cal offers valuable insights into:How women can feel empowered if they play golf - on and off the golf course;The importance of social connection to Cal personally and within the community that she has created;How authenticity is integral to her personal life and to her business Cal's Three Key Encouragements to Leaders: We can always be learning and it’s essential to stay open-minded - to acknowledge and consider the value in other peoples opinions and suggestions - no one knows everything!Make sure you’re a strong communicator. Don’t over complicate things, be direct and concise, but it’s essential to be kind in your delivery. Create a vision that people are excited by and willing to follow.How to connect with Cal:LinkedIn: Caroline Shukla Website: www.skratchwomen.comInstagram: @skratchwomenTo listen to other Leaders in Conversation with me Anni Townend go to my website, www.annitownend.comA big thank you to SHMOGUS Media for the wonderful production and marketing of the podcast.To contact me Anni Townend do email me on anni@annitownend.com visit my website www.annitownend.com, subscribe to my newsletter and follow me on LinkedIn.  I look forward to connecting with you, thank you for listening.

Leaders in Conversation with Anni Townend is the podcast in which leaders weave together the threads of their life, sharing their leadership stories; the people, places and experiences that have shaped them, their values, beliefs, passion and purpose to encourage and inspire you to be even more confident and courageous in your leadership.ABOUT THIS EPISODE:I had the joy of being introduced to Gail through a previous podcast guest, Karen Dobres who told me what a wonderful guest Gail would be, and that she had written a book, a memoir about her life and leadership called Made in Whittingham StreetIn our conversation Gail shares her story of leading with courage and gratitude, and offers insights into:The importance of not only finding your cause, your purpose, but of always being true to it, and to yourself.How staying true to your dreams, your hopes and aspirations really matters and that it is this which gives courage to and inspires others to follow their dreams and to stay true to them.Knowing what you believe in and having faith can give you the courage to keep going, and gratitude for what you have, and help reconcile challenges.GAIL'S THREE ENCOURAGEMENTS TO LEADERS:Be sincere and honest. Always be true to your cause.Never give up on your dreams. Inspire others.Have faith in what you believe inConnect with Gail:X: x.com/GailNewshamWebsite: www.dickkerrladies.comTo listen to other Leaders in Conversation with me Anni Townend go to my website, www.annitownend.comA big thank you to SHMOGUS Media for the wonderful production and marketing of the podcast.To contact me Anni Townend do email me on anni@annitownend.com visit my website www.annitownend.com, subscribe to my newsletter and follow me on LinkedIn.  I look forward to connecting with you, thank you for listening.ABOUT GAIL:I left school at fifteen and went to work in a shoe factory. I have no formal qualifications to speak of but I think I’ve done ok. I’m just an ordinary lass who has been fortunate to do some extraordinary things. I suppose I have a strong belief and a tenacity to get things done.Saving and recording the history of women’s football and of the Dick, Kerr Ladies became her mission - highlighting the courage of the women to play and to challenge the injustice of the ban on women in football.Passionate about saving the legacy of DKL, and keeping true to their story. In their Centenary year we achieved the First Blue Plaque in the World for women’s football 2017. Memorial to DKL at PNE 2017. First ever National Women’s Walking Football Tournament 2017. Plaque on Ashton Park in Preston in 2021, where DKL played their first match after the FA Ban of 1921.Always been proactive in helping the game grow when nobody gave tuppence for us. I served 12 years on the Management Committee of North West Women’s Regional Football League from 1981-1993. Chief fundraiser for my own club, organising Fancy Dress Treasure Hunts and many other initiatives.  Founder and organiser of the Lancashire Trophy in 1986, an International Women’s Football Tournament with teams from Austria, Sweden, Switzerland, Germany, Eire, Scotland and England, all taking part over the years.Proud to have served in the Women’s Royal Army Corps. Took part in the Remembrance Day Parade in London in 2016, honouring family who took part in/lost in WW1, and my dad in WW2. Proud to wear his...

Leaders in Conversation is the podcast in which leaders share their leadership story, weaving together the threads of their life; the people, places and experiences that have shaped their values, beliefs, passion and purpose to encourage and inspire you to be even more confident and courageous in your leadership.ABOUT THIS EPISODEToday’s guest is Jason Webber Senior Equality, Diversity, Inclusion and Sustainability Manager Football Association Wales (FAW). I had the joy of meeting Jason at the Diversity and Inclusion Global Forum in 2024 where Lucy Kidd and I were exhibiting our Collaboration Equation™.Jason and I had a conversation about leadership, about football and collaboration which led me to inviting him to be a podcast guest on Leaders in Conversation with Anni Townend.In our conversation Jason offers valuable insights into:Creating a welcoming, safe and inclusive environmentDiversity/Representation at all levels especially in senior leadership.Education & AwarenessTaking meaningful action and sustainable progress.Jason’s Three Key Encouragements to Leaders Lead by example, be authentic and be an ally.Listen to people's lived experiences and proactively educate yourself.Take action and make a difference to someone's life.Contact and to connect with Jason:LinkedIn - Webber T Jason Website - jasontwebber.myportfolio.comInstagram - @jasontwebber X - WebberTJason To listen to other Leaders in Conversation with me Anni Townend go to my website, www.annitownend.comA big thank you to SHMOGUS Media for the wonderful production and marketing of the podcast.To contact me Anni Townend do email me on anni@annitownend.com visit my website www.annitownend.com, subscribe to my newsletter and follow me on LinkedIn. About JASONJason is an expert and leader in Equality, Diversity, Inclusion & Sustainability currently working at the Football Association of Wales (FAW) as a Senior Equality, Diversity, Inclusion & Sustainability Manager.He has been integral in advancing the FAW’s EDI and Sustainability Programmes towards being a global leader in sport and has extensive experience as an educator, public speaker and advisor to a wide range of stakeholders for more than a decade.He is passionate about sharing his knowledge and experience with others and is committed to making football and society a better place for everyone.

Leaders in Conversation is the podcast in which leaders share their life and leadership stories; the people, places and experiences that have shaped their values, beliefs, passion and purpose to encourage and inspire you to be even more confident and courageous in your leadership.About this episode:I had the joy of being in conversation with Febronia in a previous episode of Leaders in Conversation with Anni Townend. Since then Feb has qualified as a coach and much more, and contacted me to say she would like to share more of her leadership story and journey. In our conversation Feb offers valuable insights into:Going back to Business School.Fantastic support from new peers and the marketing industry.The push towards and importance of accreditations from the Coaching Bodies.Building a business and launching exciting new services in 2025.Feb’s three Key Encouragements to Leaders:Just do it. Try not to convince yourself of all the reasons why you shouldn't go. Instead, convince yourself of the reasons why you should, because you stand to gain so much more and learn so much more and meet so many new people. It's a fantastic experience.Be patient with yourself.  Any career transition takes time. Give yourself time to enjoy the transition, the growth and the development. Be aware that the results are going to come in their own time at their own pace.Surround yourself with people who want you to win. Connect with Febronia:LinkedIn: Febronia RuoccoAbout Febronia:Febronia Ruocco is a multilingual, commercially impactful Global Strategic Insights & Analytics Director, with a proven track record of inspiring transformation & delivering winning insight; successful marketing strategy & commercial growth for iconic £1bn global brand portfolios in FMCG & OTC.She is a certified Executive Leadership Coach (Henley Business School, end 2023) & accredited at Senior Practitioner Level EMCC and ACC ICF. In addition to her insight career, Febronia has coached over 150 hours, supporting senior global directors from the marketing/advertising/insight & MRX sectors.Febronia is also a professional mentor, supporting WIRe; the Durham University Student Leadership Framework; Lancaster University & Henley Business School.To listen to other Leaders in Conversation with me Anni Townend go to my website, www.annitownend.comA big thank you to SHMOGUS Media for the wonderful production and marketing of the podcast.To contact me Anni Townend do email me on anni@annitownend.com visit my website www.annitownend.com, subscribe to my newsletter and follow me on LinkedIn.  I look forward to connecting with you, thank you for listening.

Leaders in Conversation is the podcast in which leaders share their life and leadership stories; the people, places and experiences that have shaped their values, beliefs, passion and purpose to encourage and inspire you to be even more confident and courageous in your leadership.How we metI have had the joy of knowing Howard for many, many years as a friend, and as a colleague with whom I have worked alongside as well as supported in his leadership of teams, and companies. I have long admired him as a passionate, and committed leader who is on a mission to make a difference in how we live and lead our lives through driving the energy transition with purpose and hope.About this episodeIn our conversation Howard offers valuable insights intoHow trusting your purpose and having a vision in vitalHow he lives and leads through success and failure with commitmentHow stepping into the uncomfortable can lead to authentic connectionHoward’s Three Key Encouragements to Leaders looking to lead with energy, purpose and hopeBe bold and stand up for what you believe Honesty and humility can be the strongest form of leadershipHelp people understand the larger narrative and empower them to connect with their own purposeConnect, follow and find out more about Howard:LinkedIn: Howard JohnsWebsite: www.onezero.energyInstagram: @howardsolarTo listen to other Leaders in Conversation with me Anni Townend go to my website, www.annitownend.comTo contact me Anni Townend do email me on anni@annitownend.com visit my website www.annitownend.com, subscribe to my newsletter and follow me on LinkedIn.  I look forward to connecting with you, thank you for listening.

Today’s guest is Ed Corbett "The Brand Plan Man", Head of Consulting, AI evangelist, Lover of marketing and Mentor to emerging businesses.Leaders in Conversation is the podcast in which leaders share their life and leadership stories; the people, places and experiences that have shaped their values, beliefs, passion and purpose to encourage and inspire you to be even more confident and courageous in your leadership.ABOUT THIS EPISODEI had the joy of meeting Ed over ten years ago when he was working at the pharmaceutical company MSD here in the UK. Ed had been to an event and heard my colleague, and mentor, Steve Radcliffe speaking about Future Engage Deliver, and being at your best. Ed invited Steve to MSD to do a session on being at your best, following which MSD asked for a proposal for a Leadership Development Programme. This FED programme was a huge success over many, many years and transformed peoples lives and leadership at MSD.In this conversation Ed offers valuable insights into:How success is built on big relationshipsThe importance of seeking out and really listening to feedback to growWhy being comfortable not knowing everything is keyHow we can inspire others to be the best they can beEd’s Three Key Encouragements to Leaders Acknowledge and accept that you are not and cannot be perfectYou can only really grow with and through the help of othersRelax into ‘you’ - Be comfortable in who you are and what you care aboutTo contact Ed:LinkedIn: Ed CorbettTo listen to other Leaders in Conversation with me Anni Townend go to my website, www.annitownend.comTo find out more about Future-Engage-Deliver do get in touch with me, read the book ‘Leadership Plain and Simple’ by Steve Radcliffe. And to hear Steve sharing his personal leadership story do listen to my podcast episode with him.A big thank you to SHMOGUS Media for the wonderful production and marketing of the podcast.To contact me Anni Townend do email me on anni@annitownend.com visit my website www.annitownend.com, subscribe to my newsletter and follow me on LinkedIn. I look forward to connecting with you, thank you for listening.

ABOUT THIS EPISODEToday’s guest is Delia Lazaroiu, Senior Data Analyst and the title of our conversation is Kind leadership and diverse voices rising.I had the joy of meeting Delia when she was working at the Charity Commission for England and Wales. Delia engaged with the leadership development work, and with myself and Emily Court. Since then we have kept in touch via LInkedIn, and as always Delia is immensely supportive and passionate about all she does. I am looking forward to hearing her story, and to getting to know her through this episode.In our conversation Delia offers valuable insights into: Making progress by aspiring to be the least knowledgeable person in that roomFinding your tribe and thriving Living in and leading with gratitude Living a meaningful life as a leader and human by helping others and offering kindness Delia's Three Key Encouragements to Leaders Lead by lifting each other upStay true to your valuesVisit places not visited by all your peersContact Delia:LinkedIn - Delia Lazaroiu  Instagram - @delialazaroiuTo listen to other Leaders in Conversation with me Anni Townend go to my website, www.annitownend.comA big thank you to Coco O’Brien for the wonderful intro and outro music, for the lovely design, and for the excellent editing, sound production and marketing of the podcast.To contact me Anni Townend do email me on anni@annitownend.com visit my website www.annitownend.com, subscribe to my newsletter and follow me on LinkedIn.  I look forward to connecting with you, thank you for listening.

Leaders in Conversation is the podcast in which leaders share their life and leadership stories; the people, places and experiences that have shaped their values, beliefs, passion and purpose to encourage and inspire you to be even more confident and courageous in your leadership.About This EpisodeToday’s guest is David Dand, Managing Director of Coreus, the Brighton based Talent Acquisition agency. I had the pleasure of being introduced to David through a mutual friend, previous podcast guest, Dougal Fleming. If you haven’t already listened to that episode I highly recommend it. Dougal encouraged David and I to have a conversation, and that David has a wonderful story to share.In our conversation, David offers valuable insights into:The five-step framework he uses when leading a candidate search to understand fit and motivation; What you need to know about changing career and recruitment;Navigating career changes and your next big step;Hiring tips for leaders to ensure you have the right people in the right roles.David’s three top tips for leaders looking to either make their next big move and, or ensuring that they make the right hire1. Use the 5-step framework: Consider salary and benefitsConvenienceCulture and brand reputationThe day-to-day jobTraining and career progression 2. Remember the stakes are high: There are Soft & hard turnover costs, replacement & job hopping.3.  Embrace individuality through knowing:What your key skills and strengths areWhat the conditions are for you to thrive What Great looks and feels like, just because something is great doesn’t mean it is great for you!To connect, follow and find out more about David and the The Five Step Framework go to:LinkedIn: David DandWebsite: www.coreus.co.ukInstagram: @coreus_talentacquisition About The 5 Step Career Change Framework A framework to help you understand career change and motivation, either for yourself or when you are hiring others to understand best fit.  The five essentials are:1. Salary & benefits There is more to life than money. And we have bills to pay. Responsibilities. Wants & needs. Benefits: I work with an investment firm that offers a 20% pension contribution. 2. ConvenienceWork-life balanceAbility to manage work around your caring commitments, for example picking up children from school. Work/life/harmony: Why, just because I am an accountant should I not have a weekend? 3. Culture & Brand ReputationI work with Accountancy / FS institutions. ‘Much the same.’ What is unique about this institution? What do I want?  AutonomyChallengeSustainability4. Day to day jobOperational vs strategic 5. Training and career progressionWhere is your career going, ideallyWhat in an ideal world would you like to be true To listen to other Leaders in Conversation with me Anni Townend go to my website, www.annitownend.comTo contact me Anni Townend do email me on anni@annitownend.com visit my website www.annitownend.com, subscribe to my newsletter and follow me on LinkedIn.  I look forward to connecting with you, thank you for listening.

Leaders in Conversation with Anni Townend is the podcast in which leaders share their life and leadership stories; the people, places and experiences that have shaped their values, beliefs, passion and purpose to encourage and inspire you to be even more confident and courageous in your own leadership.If you are not already please do subscribe to the podcast, review and share it. Thank you!About this Episode:Today’s guest is Sue Cockell, Solo Traveller on a mission to help women in their mid-lives to enjoy the transformative power of travelling alone.I had the joy of first meeting Sue when she was working at a pharmaceutical company where I was leading a leadership development programme. Sue was one of a small group of leaders with whom I worked over a period of time, supporting them in leading others.  As a group we got to know each other well, and during that time, some ten years ago, Sue lost her beloved husband. I remember Sue getting into solo travel, and helping me to feel confident about my youngest daughter travelling solo aged 18.In our conversation Sue offers valuable insights into: The transformative power of travelSolo travel for women in mid-lifeEmbracing the power of “Yes!”Sue’s Three Key Encouragements to Leaders :It’s not what happens to you in life, but how you respond that makes you who you areYou grow the most outside your comfort zone. Embrace those opportunities to stretch it, even if it scares youYour life experiences are what makes you unique, relatable & interesting. Never be afraid to share them as you never know where it may lead.The best way to connect, follow and find out more about Sue:LinkedIn: Sue Cockell Website: www.suewherewhywhat.comYouTube: @SueWhereWhyWhat Instagram: @suewherewhywhat About Sue Cockell:Sue Cockell is a Transformative Travel Coach, Solo Female Travel Expert, Blogger and YouTuber. She began her solo travel journey after tragically losing her husband back in 2014. Travel allowed her to breathe, grieve, heal and finally find herself again. She has now visited over 80 countries, across 6 continents and through her work she aims to inspire other women over 40 to embrace the power of travelling alone too. If you have a deep desire to explore the world but feel overwhelmed by the sheer amount of planning and preparation involved. Sue has designed a new course specifically for you: Find Your Way: Your Ultimate Guide to Starting Your Travel Journey. If you would like to learn more, then contact her now at sue@suewherewhywhat.com. To listen to other Leaders in Conversation with me Anni Townend go to my website, www.annitownend.comA big thank you to Coco O’Brien for the wonderful intro and outro music, for the lovely design, and for the excellent editing, sound production and marketing of the podcast.To contact me Anni Townend do email me on anni@annitownend.com visit my website www.annitownend.com, subscribe to my newsletter and follow me on LinkedIn.  I look forward to connecting with you, thank you for listening.

Today’s guest is Andrew Edwards, former BBC broadcaster, and now an Event Host, Trainer, Teacher and Mentor. The title of our conversation is ‘You Don’t Need to Be a Boss to Be a Leader’.Leaders in Conversation is the podcast in which leaders share their life and leadership stories; the people, places and experiences that have shaped their values, beliefs, passion and purpose to encourage and inspire you to be even more confident and courageous in your own leadership.If you are not already please do subscribe to the podcast, review and share it. Thank you!ABOUT THIS EPISODE I had the joy of being introduced to Andrew through his brother John Edwards. If you haven’t already listened to John and I in conversation, it is a great episode on Understanding Ourselves, and Understanding Others. John suggested that Andrew would make an excellent guest, and that he had produced, whilst at the BBC a podcast about their late Mum’s experience of living - and dying - with dementia, ‘Mum and Me: The Dementia Diary’ Andrew offers valuable insights into: Leading by example through your leadership behaviour in an ‘on and off air’ frontline role.Looking down, up and out - remembering to consult your team, using the expertise around you, and never losing track of your real bosses - your audience, customers and the public.Swimming against the tide of expectation - your own and others’ expectations while looking after your own mental health.Differentiating the personal from the private, and the power of opening up in the right way to others and getting the balance right. Andrew's Three Key Encouragements to Leaders Be true to yourself and your values Listen more than you talkInspire others through your leadership behaviours Connect, follow and find out more about Andrew:LinkedIn: https://uk.linkedin.com/in/thebeardedbroadcasterAndrew's website: www.theandrewedwards.comX / Twitter: @RadioAndrewEInstagram: @andrewedwardsleeds Email: beardedbroadcaster@icloud.comTo listen to other Leaders in Conversation with me Anni Townend go to my website, www.annitownend.comTo contact me Anni Townend do email me on anni@annitownend.com visit my website www.annitownend.com, subscribe to my newsletter and follow me on LinkedIn. About  Andrew EdwardsAndrew is a broadcaster, teacher, trainer and event host. He began broadcasting on hospital radio in his hometown, Hull, making his professional debut as a sports reporter on Viking Radio. He started his career in journalism at the Hull Daily Mail newspaper, before joining the BBC as a trainee in 1989. Andrew moved to BBC Radio Leeds in 1993 where he stayed, very happily, for the next thirty years. For many years he combined his on-air career with teaching radio journalism and spent seven years at the University of Central Lancashire in Preston and Leeds Trinity University. He still mentors students and radio colleagues and is now doing freelance work at the University of Leeds.Until 2022 he spent part of each week looking after his Mum, who died from dementia. He gives talks about, and hosts events linked to, dementia and hopes to write a book about his mother. He recorded a weekly audio diary called ‘Mum and Me: The Dementia Diary’, for which he was named a Dementia Hero at the Alzheimer’s Society’s awards 2021.

About this Episode Today’s guest is Meg Farren, General Manager, Chief Customer Officer, Chief Marketing Officer and much more! I had the joy of meeting Meg for the first time on the Marketing Leaders Programme, in early 2024. Meg opened the programme for us, and did a wonderful job of sharing her story and setting the context and the ambition of the programme.Together Meg and I delve into the people, places and experiences that have made Meg the person and leader she is today. Meg’s Three Key Encouragements to Leaders Be Curious in Everything, make your first response a curious one, about yourself and about others - ask Why all the timeLean into your Fear, build resilience through daring to ask - don’t hold yourself backHave Fun, find and do what you love and gives you JoyTo connect, follow and find out more about Meg:LinkedIn: Meghan FarrenTo listen to other Leaders in Conversation with me Anni Townend go to my website, www.annitownend.comLeaders in Conversation is the podcast in which I talk with leaders about their own life and leadership stories, to encourage you to reflect on your values, beliefs, passion and purpose, and inspire you to be even more confident and courageous in your leadership. A big thank you to Coco O’Brien for the wonderful intro and outro music, for the lovely design, and for the excellent editing and sound production and promotion of the podcast.To contact me Anni Townend do email me on anni@annitownend.com visit my website www.annitownend.com, subscribe to my newsletter and follow me on LinkedIn.  I look forward to connecting with you, thank you for listening.