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In this episode, host BetvWilliams speaks with Melissa Barry, a dynamic leader with a diverse career spanning travel, events, and food service. Melissa shares her journey of finding work-life balance, and how embracing change has shaped her career. She discusses the challenges of entrepreneurship and the valuable lessons learned from setbacks, emphasisng the power of adaptability and the significance of underpromising and overdelivering in building trust with partners. In this conversation, Mel shares her insights on the challenges and rewards of her career journey, emphasising the importance of trusting one's instincts, learning from failures, and the unexpected experiences that shape professional growth. She discusses the significance of empowering women in the workplace and creating supportive environments, particularly in the hospitality industry, which is evolving to meet new expectations. Mel also reflects on Sustainability in the hospitality industry, the need for flexibility and the value of experiences over traditional markers of success, offering advice for younger professionals navigating their careers. Melissa's journey demonstrates that careers can be dynamic and fulfilling when approached with an open mind and a willingness to adapt. If you're considering a career change or seeking inspiration, remember that success is not just about the destination but the journey. Take a cue from Melissa's story and embrace the opportunities that come your way, no matter how unexpected they may be.  Takeaways: ·      Success isn't just about job titles or achievements. ·      Flexibility to enjoy life is a key aspect of success. ·      Embrace change rather than fear it; it's often where opportunities lie. ·      Underpromising and overdelivering builds trust with partners. ·      Adaptability is a strength; don't underestimate it. ·      Every role provides transferable skills for future opportunities. ·      Setbacks can lead to the best opportunities in your career. ·      Unexpected experiences can be more valuable than job titles. ·      Creating a supportive environment for women is crucial. ·      Flexibility in the workplace enhances productivity. ·      The hospitality industry is adapting to new consumer expectations. ·      Success should not be viewed as a race. ·      It's important to enjoy the journey of your career. Chapters ·       00:00 Introduction to Melissa Barry ·       03:05 Overcoming Public Speaking Anxiety ·       05:54 Rewards of the Reinventive Stage ·       09:48 Leadership and Consistent Actions ·       11:43 Facing Career Challenges and Overcoming Them ·       15:49 Embracing Change and Adaptability ·       17:44 Underpromising and Overdelivering ·       22:11 Women in the Workforce ·       23:10 Learning from Failure ·       25:13 Unexpected Career Experiences ·       27:14 Creating Opportunities for Women

In this episode, host Bev Williams speaks with Patricia Seabright, Founder of Archimedes Consulting, about her journey in business and coaching, particularly focusing on empowering women in the workplace. Patricia shares her personal experiences, including being made redundant while pregnant, and emphasises the significance of awareness and choice in navigating career obstacles. They discuss the challenges women face, including unconscious bias, the importance of resilience, and the need for flexibility in career paths. The conversation highlights the need for women to recognise societal biases and to embrace their strengths in leadership roles. In this engaging conversation, Patricia Seabright discusses various themes surrounding gender equality, the challenges women face in the workplace, and the importance of mentorship. She highlights the need for more women in politics, and the impact of outdated school systems on women's employment. Patricia also shares her perspective on failure, emphasising the importance of viewing setbacks as learning opportunities. Additionally, she explores the role of AI in career development and the necessity of advocating for women's visibility in various sectors. Takeaways ·      Resilience and a brave mindset are crucial for leadership. ·      Career paths do not have to be linear; flexibility is key. ·      Awareness of societal biases empowers women to make choices. ·      Women should give themselves permission to be curious about their careers. ·      Labels like 'alpha female' can carry different connotations for women. ·      Victorian school hours hinder women's ability to work full-time. ·      More women in politics could lead to better productivity solutions. ·      Failure should be viewed as an experiment hypothesis. ·      AI can enhance coaching but won't replace human interaction.   She Said book https://archimedesspeaks.com/she-said/ TedX St Albans https://tedxstalbans.co.uk/ Be Brave not perfect Tedtalk: https://www.ted.com/talks/reshma_saujani_teach_girls_bravery_not_perfection Elect Her: https://www.elect-her.org.uk/ For more information on the 3 phases of a woman's career please head to the resources section at www.breathecoaching.co.uk Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Patricia Seabright 04:44 Navigating Career Challenges and Rewards 08:19 The Importance of Resilience and Mindset 12:54 Understanding Unconscious Bias in the Workplace 16:31 Flexibility in Career Paths 20:45 Embracing Labels and Strengths 22:34 Breaking Gender Stereotypes in Sports Media 27:38 Redefining Failure and Learning from Setbacks 32:45 Advocating for Women in Politics

Holly Giddings, the founder of Houx and Houx Knew, shares her journey of reinvention and success in the hospitality recruitment and coaching space. From the birth of Houx to overcoming career challenges, Holly's insights on leadership, accountability, and communication provide valuable lessons for professionals in any industry. The conversation covers topics such as empowerment through clarity, embracing individuality, gender disparities in the hospitality industry, overcoming self-doubt, unexpected career paths, supporting women in business, the future of the hospitality industry, and balancing work and self-worth. Takeaways: ·      Redundancy can lead to new opportunities and directions. ·      Finding a niche and focusing on expertise is crucial. ·      Setting boundaries is essential for mental health and productivity. ·      Self-belief is a superpower for women in the workforce. ·      It's important to reflect on career choices and not rush into decisions. ·      No response to communication is still a response. ·      Leaders must clarify expectations and accountability. ·      Embracing one's true self is empowering. ·      Success should not be measured by busyness. https://houx.co.uk Chapters: 00:00 Introducing Holly Giddings and Houx02:00 The Birth of Houx and Houx Knew06:08 Challenges Faced in Different Sectors06:44 Most Rewarding Aspects of Career08:27 Consistent Actions and Leadership12:54 Overcoming Career Challenges16:28 Lesson on Communication and Accountability19:07 Empowerment Through Clarity21:18 Proud to Be 'Too Much'23:07 Gender Disparities in Hospitality27:18 Overcoming Self-Doubt29:21 Unexpected Career Future of Hospitality Indust

In this episode, Bev Williams interviews Michelle French, co-founder of CAMA Group, discussing her journey in business, the importance of sustainability, and her personal experiences with leadership and resilience. Michelle shares insights on reinventing her career, the challenges she faced, and the lessons learned from failures. The conversation highlights the significance of intuition in decision-making, the dynamics of working with family, and the value of building relationships in business. In this engaging conversation, Michelle shares her insights on navigating career transition and the lessons learned from business failures. She discusses proactive strategies for business resilience, unexpected career paths, and the significance of mentoring women in the workplace. Michelle also reflects on her hopes for sustainability in the film and construction industries, the role of AI, and the importance of trusting one's instincts in challenging situations. The discussion concludes with an inspirational thought about courage and resilience. Takeaways: ·      Confidence in decision-making grows with experience. ·      Leadership should be a hearts and minds approach. ·      Work-life balance is crucial for team well-being. ·      Failure is a learning opportunity, not something to fear. ·      Building relationships can turn initial rejections into future opportunities. ·      Instinct and intuition play a vital role in business decisions. ·      Research shows women are less likely to receive CPR. ·      Sustainability must be a core focus in all industries. ·      Trust your instincts in business and personal interactions. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Michelle and her career background 04:16 Michelle’s approach to living without regrets 05:47 Michelle’s current reinvention and career confidence 07:30 Balancing intuition and logic in decision-making 08:56 Working with her husband and work-life integration 15:14 Facing and overcoming career challenges and setbacks 24:23 The importance of persistence and relationship-building in business 27:15 Michelle’s biggest career failure and lessons learned 30:01 Adapting to industry disruptions 37:17 Advice to younger self and importance of trusting instincts 40:53 Michelle’s insights on sustainability and AI in media

In this episode of Recon, host Bev Williams interviews Mike Burton, a prominent figure in the construction industry, discussing his extensive career, insights on gender disparity, leadership challenges, and the importance of mentorship. Mike shares his experiences and lessons learned, emphasising the need for supportive networks and pathways for women in engineering. The conversation also touches on the future of the construction industry and advice for women in their early careers. During our discussion, we explored the different phases of a man's career compared to those of women in construction. Mike noted that the pragmatic endurance stage women experience during their careers stands in stark contrast to men’s focus on stability and advancement during similar periods. This difference highlights the unique challenges women face in balancing work and family life, often leading to the development of essential skills that can benefit them in their careers. Mike's philosophy is centred around giving back, which he attributes to his upbringing in the industry. He emphasised the significance of mentorship in his career, stating that he had many supporters early on who helped him succeed. By volunteering in mentoring programs, Mike has committed himself to nurturing the next generation of engineers and leaders in the industry. He believes that providing support and guidance enables individuals to flourish in their careers, especially women balancing family responsibilities and professional aspirations. One of the most important lessons Mike shared from his career is the value of building relationships. He encourages young professionals to develop connections within their industry, emphasising that these relationships can provide support and opportunities throughout their careers. Networking is not just about professional connections but also about creating a community that can help each other succeed. Mike's insights offer valuable lessons for both men and women in the construction industry. His commitment to mentorship, understanding of career phases, and leadership philosophy highlight the importance of support systems in fostering talent. As we wrap up this series, it’s clear that collaboration and mutual support are essential in driving inclusion and innovation in our field. Takeaways: ·      The importance of mentorship and supporting emerging talent. ·      The construction industry faces significant gender disparity, with only 9% of UK engineers being women. ·      Leadership is about empathy, communication, and accountability. ·      Building relationships in the industry is crucial for career success. ·      The pandemic posed unique challenges for leaders in the construction sector. ·      Women often develop super skills during the pragmatic endurance phase of their careers. ·      Continuous learning and adapting to new technologies are essential for career growth. For more information on the 3 phases of a woman's career please head to the resources section at www.breathecoaching.co.uk Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest 04:34 Mike’s Career Overview and Achievements 11:21 Phases of Career Development: A Male Perspective 14:50 Leadership and Its Challenges 19:30 Lessons Learned and Insights for Women 25:30 Addressing Gender Disparity in Engineering 28:08 Failures and Unexpected Lessons 32:15 Supporting Women's Development in the Industry

In this episode of Recon, host Bev Williams speaks with Helen Collie, a partner at HKA and a chartered structural engineer. Helen shares her journey in the construction industry, discussing her transition into leadership, the importance of establishing boundaries between work and home life, and the challenges she faced, including the loss of her father. She emphasises the value of having a supportive team and the lessons learned from her experiences, including embracing one's uniqueness and the significance of shared values in a Collie environment. In this conversation, Helen and Bev discuss the significant gender pay gap in the construction industry, the importance of representation and visibility for women in engineering, and the need for a cultural shift to support women in STEM fields. They explore the concept of failure, emphasising the importance of learning from experiences rather than letting them define one's worth. Helen shares her journey and insights on how to encourage more girls to pursue engineering, while also reflecting on her own career and the challenges faced along the way. Helen’s experiences highlight the importance of authentic leadership in the construction industry. By embracing her leadership style, setting boundaries, and prioritising self-care, she not only enhances her own well-being but also fosters a supportive environment for her team. Aspiring leaders can learn valuable lessons from Helen’s journey, reminding us that leadership is about more than just a title; it’s about being true to oneself and empowering others. Takeaways ·      Leadership allows for personal expression and doing things one's own way. ·      Establishing boundaries is crucial for work-life balance. ·      Grief can impact career direction and stability. ·      Supportive work environments are essential for well-being. ·      Having a solid team with shared values is invaluable. ·      Failure to execute is not the end of the world. ·      It's important to learn to share the load with a team. ·      Embracing uniqueness can lead to personal satisfaction. ·      Celebrating one's weirdness is a positive trait. Words can have a lasting impact on young minds. ·      Statistics often hide deeper cultural issues. ·      Failure can be reframed as a learning opportunity. ·      Visibility of women in engineering is crucial for future generations. ·      Encouraging girls to consider STEM is essential for change. ·      It's important to enjoy the journey and successes in your career. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Helen Collie 05:05 Reinventing Leadership and Personal Growth 08:15 Establishing Boundaries in Work and Life 13:09 Navigating Grief and Career Challenges 19:08 Support Systems in the Workplace 24:52 Lessons Learned from Team Dynamics 27:15 Embracing Uniqueness and Overcoming Insults 32:00 Gender Pay Gap in Construction 38:07 Redefining Failure 43:00 Visibility and Representation in Engineering

In this episode of Recon, host Bev Williams speaks with Faye Allen, Managing Director Quantum EMEA, at Rimkus  who brings over three decades of experience in the construction industry. Faye shares her journey, the importance of leadership, and her groundbreaking book, "Building Women." We delve into Faye's insights and provide actionable takeaways for those looking to empower themselves and others in the construction field. In addition to her extensive practical experience, Faye is the author of the best-selling book, "Building Women: How Everyone in Construction Can Win." The book serves as both a guide and a call to action for tackling systemic issues affecting women and men in the construction industry.   Faye emphasises the significance of leadership, particularly in creating an environment where everyone feels valued and safe. She shares how her role as a leader allows her to build a team that aligns with her cultural values. "What I'm really, really enjoying is being able to build a team around me and watching people grow and flourish," she explains.   Faye highlights the necessity of creating a safe environment where team members can express their thoughts and concerns. This involves regular one-on-one meetings where honest dialogues can occur. By focusing on mentoring, Faye aims to help her team members develop their skills and confidence. This approach not only benefits the individuals but also enhances the overall team dynamic. Faye believes that listening is one of the most critical skills a leader can possess. Faye encourages leaders to actively listen to their teams, clients, and subcontractors to better understand their needs and concerns. Throughout her career, Faye has faced numerous challenges, including the persistent gender pay gap and issues related to workplace culture. She candidly shares her experiences of overcoming these obstaclesvand the importance of advocating for oneself.   In conclusion, Faye’s insights provide a roadmap for women navigating the construction industry. From leadership to advocacy, her experiences exemplify the importance of community and support. Takeaways: ·      Active listening is a crucial skill in effective leadership. ·      The gender pay gap remains a significant challenge in the industry. ·      It's crucial to create psychologically safe spaces in workplaces. ·      Many women do not report harassment due to fear & lack of support. ·      Failure is a part of learning and growth in any career. ·      Career paths can be non-linear & unexpected opportunities can arise. ·      Mothers in the workplace bring valuable organisational skills. ·      Cultural shifts are necessary for inclusivity in the construction industry. ·      Support networks are vital for women navigating their careers. BUY THE BOOK – BUILDING WOMEN https://fayeallen.co.uk https://amzn.eu/d/0dVwB6Am Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Faye Allen 02:53 The Impact of Building Women 05:55 Leadership & Mentorship in Construction 08:52 Overcoming Challenges: Gender Pay Gap and Culture 11:56 The Importance of Listening 18:08 Reflections on Insults 22:48 Addressing Workplace Harassment 25:14 Learning from Failure 28:50 Unexpected Career Paths 32:00 Supporting Women in the Workplace

In this engaging interview, Racheal Cadey shares her journey through the construction and design industry, leadership lessons, overcoming unexpected challenges, and her vision for the future of construction. Discover practical insights, inspiring stories, and actionable advice from a seasoned industry leader. Racheal admits she’s a reluctant leader, driven more by her core values than a desire for the spotlight. But her authenticity shines through in her daily habits: setting clear boundaries, supporting her team, and constantly learning from those around her. Across decades of experience, Racheal shares her raw truths—how she filters the glitter from the gold, the lessons learned from tragedy, and her bold vision for the future of the industry. Her mantra? “Wife, mother, leader”—a holistic approach to leadership that transcends career alone. This blend of personal integrity and professional drive empowers her to lead with both heart and clarity. When life threw her its cruelest curve—a sudden, devastating loss—Racheal’s response revealed her greatest lesson: prepare for the unexpected, lean on your people, and keep moving forward. Her story about Sarah Myland, who passed away unexpectedly, is a testament to resilience. They built a legacy called “My Day”—a ritual to honour her spirit, and her memory. It’s a reminder that even in tragedy, we find purpose, community, and a new way to move onward. “I can filter gold from glitter,” an unforgettable phrase that perfectly captures her seasoned perspective. With decades of experience, she’s learned to recognise what truly matters: values, purpose, and the pursuit of impact. This clarity allows her to navigate growth and change without losing her core. Her recognition, acceptance, and balance RAB are her North Star. One of Racheal’s passionate pursuits is the Edge U-cation program which invests in students and young women, busting myths about industry roles from site to leadership. Racheal’s story is a powerful reminder: authenticity, resilience, and vision are the bedrock of impactful leadership. You don’t have to be perfect or fearless—just committed to showing up, learning, and supporting others on their journey. Takeaways: Recognition, Acceptance, Balance—her guiding principles for self-awareness and managing relationships, careers, and personal growth.Pause and reflect before responding to emailsFollow your own version of success and balanceLife’s surprises are inevitable—how you respond defines your resilience. Cherish your relationships, create meaningful rituals, and never underestimate the power of “onwards.”True leadership isn’t about 'doing everything yourself' but about creating space for others to grow, supporting their muscle-building, and knowing when to pause and reflect.As you grow and evolve, ask yourself: what is glitter—superficial distractions—and what is genuine gold? Focus on the impact and legacy you want to leave. Edge u cation - https://generationedge.co.uk/edge-ucation Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Racheal Cadey and Generation Edge07:42 Reinventive Stage of Career12:53 Consistent Actions and Leadership22:48 Lesson from Job Experience30:11 Gender Diversity in SMEs36:03 Career Expectations and Realities

In this episode of Recon, host Bev Williams speaks with Katrina Kostic-Samen, a prominent figure in the commercial real estate industry. They discuss Katrina's career journey, her views on leadership versus management, the challenges she has faced, and the lessons learned along the way. Katrina emphasises the importance of mentorship, the unique challenges women face in leadership roles, and the realities of entrepreneurship. The conversation highlights the significance of resilience, adaptability, and the drive to succeed in a competitive industry.   Katrina shares her experiences with workplace bullying, the unexpected longevity of her career, and the resilience she developed through various crises. She emphasises the importance of empowering women in the construction industry and discusses her hopes for innovation and sustainability in the field.   Additionally, she explores the concept of rethinking work structures, including the potential benefits of a four-day work week, and offers valuable advice for young professionals navigating their careers. In discussing leadership, Katrina draws a distinction between being a leader and being a manager. According to her, leadership is an inherent quality that involves building consensus and guiding others, while management often focuses on task execution. She believes that true leaders emerge during crises, demonstrating their ability to navigate challenges effectively. Katrina shares valuable lessons from her extensive career, emphasising the importance of personal integrity and being proactive. She advises against discussing sensitive topics in public spaces, like elevators, and stresses the need to read everything before signing it, as your signature is your bond. In conclusion, Katrina’s journey is a testament to the power of reinvention in one’s career. By embracing change, understanding the nuances of leadership, and maintaining a focus on personal integrity, professionals can navigate the complexities of their careers more effectively. Takeaways: ·      Don't discuss sensitive topics in elevators. ·      Being called relentless can be a positive trait. ·      Striving for something above your means fosters growth. ·      The importance of speaking up against workplace bullying. ·      Read everything you sign! ·      Resilience is built through facing crises head-on. ·      Innovation in construction is necessary for growth. ·      Building a supportive culture is essential for employee retention. ·      Grace & kindness in professional settings can make a significant impact. Read the first article in the four-part series which explores how alternative workweek models are challenging long-held assumptions about time, productivity and the role of the office. https://www.savills.us/blog/article/389498/us-articles/fantasy--or-the-future--four-day-workweeks-could-be-reshaping-our-workplace.aspx   Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Katrina 10:11 Leadership vs Management 17:17 Lessons Learned from Experience 19:57 Perceptions of Women in Leadership 22:10 Entrepreneurship and Women 24:54 Navigating Business Challenges 28:03 Facing Workplace Bullying 30:28 Unexpected Career Longevity 32:52 Resilience in Crisis 43:40 Rethinking Work Structures

In this episode of Recon, host Bev Williams speaks with Lisa Webb, a Senior Planning Partner at Newmark UK, about her extensive career in the construction industry. Lisa shares insights on the importance of building relationships, the rewards of leadership, and the challenges she has faced, including personal loss. They discuss the significance of networking, the impact of mentorship, and the strides being made towards gender equality in the industry. 🌟The Rewards of a Transformative Career🌟 During the conversation, Lisa reflects on the most rewarding aspects of her career. Moreover, she emphasises the importance of social impact in her work. 🌟Leadership: Beyond Titles🌟 To Lisa, being authentic and building strong relationships is key. She has made it a point to be transparent about her commitments, especially regarding work-life balance. This approach has not only set a positive example for her colleagues but has also encouraged other women in her field to establish similar boundaries. 🌟Overcoming Challenges🌟 One of the most significant challenges Lisa faced was the sudden loss of her business partner, in a tragic accident. She describes this experience as a pivotal moment in her career, forcing her to confront her resilience and leadership capabilities. That tragedy became Lisa’s greatest lesson in resilience and trust — trust in herself, in her team, in the endless capacity we have to adapt and grow. The real victory? Seeing how your darkest moments can forge the strongest versions of yourself. Maybe that’s the point. Maybe resilience isn’t just about bouncing back. It’s about rising stronger after falling. Worth thinking about…. 🌟The Power of Connections🌟 Lisa emphasises the importance of networking in building a successful career. Hop-Hop reflects her commitment to fostering supportive relationships and mentorship opportunities. In conclusion, Lisa’s journey serves as an inspiring example of resilience, leadership, and the power of connection.  Takeaways: ·      Confidence comes with experience and is crucial for success. ·      Building strong relationships is key to effective leadership. ·      Flexibility in the workplace supports women in their careers. ·      Mistakes are learning opportunities that can build trust. ·      Self-care and rest are important for sustained success. ·      You don't need a grand master plan to succeed in your career. HOP HOP uses a relaxed, simple process to regularly introduce you to brand new connections every fortnight. For each chat, you get a warm email introduction and a mutually agreed time for a 30 minute conversation.Chat with fellow female professionals in a natural way. To sign up use link https://www.hophop.chat/p/join-female-property-professionals-like-you   Ula Caroto https://queenofrest.co.uk/about/ Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Lisa Webb and Her Career Journey 03:10 The Rewards of a Transformative Career 05:51 Leadership Mindset and Actions 08:55 Overcoming Personal Challenges 12:07 The Importance of Networking 15:09 Creating Opportunities for Women 18:07 Facing Insults and Embracing Identity 23:57 Learning from Mistakes 27:01 The Excitement of a Planning Career 30:06 Supporting Women in the Industry

In this episode of Recon, host Bev Williams speaks with Fiona Goddard, Head of MEP for UK and Ireland at AECOM. They discuss Fiona's journey in the engineering field, the importance of teamwork and leadership, the challenges of balancing work and family life, and the value of networking. Fiona shares her insights on overcoming challenges, embracing failure, and the evolving role of AI in engineering. The conversation emphasises the need for mentorship and support for emerging talent, as well as the importance of building confidence in the workplace. Fiona Goddard is an accomplished leader in the engineering sector, currently overseeing a team of over 350 engineers at AECOM. She began her career at 17 as a trainee electrical engineer and has since built a reputation as a credible expert in her field. Fiona’s commitment to nurturing talent and her practical experience make her insights invaluable for anyone looking to advance in the engineering industry. A key principle in Fiona’s leadership style is leading by example. By staying involved in the technical aspects of projects, she demonstrates her commitment and understanding of the work at hand. Fiona shares her experience of balancing a demanding career while raising a family. She highlights the prevalent issue of guilt that working parents face, especially women, when trying to juggle professional responsibilities and family commitments.  One of the most critical lessons Fiona has learnt is the value of connecting with people in the industry. Building relationships beyond project discussions can lead to future collaborations and opportunities. In conclusion, fostering the next generation of engineering leaders requires a commitment to teamwork, effective leadership, and building meaningful connections. By prioritising these elements, we can ensure a thriving future for the engineering profession. Takeaways: ·      Failure is a part of the journey, and feedback is vital for improvement. ·      Flexibility and openness to opportunities can lead to unexpected career paths. ·      AI will change the role of engineers, but human judgment remains irreplaceable. ·      Confidence-building initiatives are important for all individuals in the workplace. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Fiona Goddard and Her Journey 03:59 The Importance of Teamwork and Leadership 09:59 Balancing Work and Family Life 14:55 The Value of Networking and Connections 19:55 Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Failure 24:53 Navigating Career Expectations and Opportunities 30:02 Mentorship and Supporting Emerging Talent

In this episode of Recon, host Bev Williams speaks with Penny Vinten, a seasoned professional in the construction industry. They discuss Penny's career journey, the importance of mentorship, leadership qualities, and the evolving landscape of the construction sector. Penny shares her insights on navigating challenges, the significance of integrity, and her hopes for the future of women in construction. The conversation emphasises the value of experience, continuous learning, and supporting the next generation of leaders. One of her most powerful insights? “Expertise opens doors. Integrity keeps them open.” Everyone faces setbacks, but Penny’s story highlights that perseverance and integrity can turn even the darkest moments into victories. She recounts a period where her professionalism was questioned — an experience that shook her confidence and triggered panic attacks.Her response? Staying the course. With support from family and friends, Penny proved her innocence and emerged stronger. Her resilience teaches us that real strength lies in standing firm, fighting for what’s right, and trusting your judgment. A valuable lesson: “Don’t let external negativity define you. Your integrity is your most valuable asset.” Takeaways: Leadership is about daily integrity, consistency, and approachability.Resilience and staying true to your values will see you through challenges.Mentoring and supporting women accelerates positive change in the industry.Building for the future requires social responsibility coupled with excellence.Career paths are rarely linear—embrace the unpredictable and enjoy the ride.Every day brings new challenges, and it's okay to have ups and downs.Continuous learning is essential for effective leadership.Integrity is the foundation of trust and long-term success.Embrace change and continuous learning to stay relevant. Resources: ·       The NSPCC Building Safer Communities for Children toolkit puts children at the heart of places the sector designs, builds and operates. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Penny Vinten 01:40 Navigating Career Transitions 06:04 Leadership Insights and Consistency 07:51 Overcoming Challenges in Career 10:15 Lessons Learned and Integrity 13:30 Women in Construction and Support 19:39 Future Hopes for the Industry 21:10 Closing Thoughts and Inspirational Quotes

In this engaging episode of Recon, host Bev Williams speaks with Kate Mason, Senior Principal of Workplace Design at Unispace, about her extensive career in the construction industry. They discuss the importance of relationships, the challenges of maternity leave, and the evolving role of women in leadership. Kate shares her insights on effective leadership, the significance of mentorship, and the need for greater support for women returning to work. The conversation highlights the importance of using one's voice and the hope for a more inclusive future in the construction industry. Takeaways: ·      The most rewarding aspect of my career is the relationships I've built. ·      Leadership is learned over time and requires self-reflection. ·      It's important to support women returning from maternity leave. ·      Judging others too quickly can hinder personal growth. ·      Embracing age and experience can be empowering in the workplace. ·      Mentorship is crucial for guiding women in their careers. ·      The construction industry needs to attract women from an early age. ·      Flexible roles can help women return to work after a break. ·      Using your voice is essential for making change. For more information on the 3 phases of a woman's career please head to the resources section at www.breathecoaching.co.uk Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Kate Mason and Her Journey 04:32 The Rewards of Relationships in the Industry 08:29 Leadership: Actions, Habits, and Reflections 12:54 Challenges of Maternity Leave and Career Progression 15:29 Lessons Learned: Judging Others and Personal Growth 18:52 Embracing Age and Experience in the Workplace 23:31 The Importance of Mentorship and Supporting Women 27:35 Future Hopes for Women in the Construction Industry 31:31 Closing Thoughts and Inspirational Messages

In this episode, Bev interviews Yoshimi Douglas Street, a trailblazing woman in construction, golf, and advocacy. They discuss her career journey from painter to Operations Director, her passion for mentoring, and her efforts to increase diversity and inclusion in the industry. Yoshimi transitioned from being a successful painter and decorator to pursuing a management role, recognising the need for long-term career sustainability. Her background in the trades gives her a unique perspective. One of the key themes that emerged from our conversation is the vital role mentorship plays in the construction industry. Yoshimi emphasises the impact of having mentors early in one's career, "I never had a mentor, and I think if I would have had one earlier, maybe the path would have been slightly different." By mentoring graduates and apprentices, she aims to provide guidance and support to the next generation, helping them navigate their careers successfully. Yoshimi advocates for creating psychological safety in the workplace. She believes that leaders must ensure their teams feel safe to express themselves fully. "Ensuring safe spaces for my teams is crucially important," she says. This approach not only fosters open communication but also encourages individuals to bring their authentic selves to work, enhancing team dynamics and productivity. As we conclude our discussion, it's evident that Yoshimi is not just a leader in the construction industry, but also a passionate advocate for women and of course Golf! Her journey and insights serve as an inspiration for many aspiring professionals, emphasising the importance of representation and support in the workplace. Takeaways: ·      Consistent visibility as a leader builds trust and inspires others ·      Transitioning from trades to management can create well-rounded leaders who understand all facets of the industry. ·      Early mentorship can significantly influence career trajectories, providing guidance and support. ·    Creating a safe and inclusive workplace environment is essential for maximising team potential and job satisfaction. ·      Persistence in knocking on doors is key to success   Resources Fore Her Collective (formerly Ladies_Can_Golf the England Golf Award Winning 2026) is a vibrant women's corporate golf community designed to connect, empower and elevate women within the corporate world https://www.linkedin.com/company/foreher-collective/    Construction for women Anglia, launched in February 2020 to connect people across the construction industry in the East of England. https://womeninconstructionanglia.com For more information on the 3 phases of a woman's career please head to the resources section at www.breathecoaching.co.uk   Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Yoshimi 01:59 The Journey into Golf & Networking 04:41 Mentorship& Giving Back 06:47 Transitioning from Trade to Management 09:25 Leadership Mindset & Consistent Actions 11:55 Challenges in Career a& Personality Management 16:14 Embracing Identity in a Male-Dominated Industry 17:26 The Impact of Family on Women's Careers 20:57 Learning from Failures 24:07 Inspiring Future Generations 25:55 Hopes for the Future of Construction 28:29 Advice for the Next Generation

In this episode Julia Barrett, Chief Sustainability and Compliance Officer at Willmott Dixon shares her unexpected career path from chemical engineering to board leadership in construction, leadership insights, and her vision for a sustainable, diverse industry by 2030.   A trailblazer in sustainable construction and diversity. This episode is a call to action for anyone daring to make a real impact in the industry. Julia’s story underscores that leadership isn’t a solo journey. Her impactful mentorship programs and commitment to fostering peer support reveal how collective effort accelerates change.She’s candid about boundaries—acknowledging the necessity of self-care, setting limits, and working flexibly. Her point? “Make it work for you, not the other way around.” Doing so isn’t just good for you—it’s essential for sustainable leadership. Her reflection on her biggest challenges? Managing the realisation that she often managed experts more knowledgeable than herself. Her breakthrough? Embracing that as a strength, not a weakness—trusting her team, asking questions, being persuadable, and staying curious.Julia’s leadership mantra? “You’re not indispensable. Recognise your worth, celebrate your wins, and keep pushing forward". The Bottom Line... Julia Barrett isn’t just transforming construction—she’s redefining what leadership looks like for women everywhere. Her story urges you to embrace authenticity, challenge assumptions, and lead with purpose. Because when you do, you ignite progress that lasts. Takeaways: ·       Authenticity and honesty are key to good leadership. ·       Leadership is about mindset and consistent actions, not titles. ·       Good leaders treat everyone with respect and learn from their team. ·       You don't need to be the expert to lead effectively. ·       Setting ambitious diversity targets drives industry change.   Resources & Links: Why Good Girls Don’t Get Ahead But Gutsy Girls Do by Kate White Supply Chain Sustainability School Aldersgate Group Chapters: 00:00 - Welcome and episode overview: Julia Barrett’s inspiring leadership story 02:24 - Julia’s approach to sustainable development and industry recognition 03:58 - How her early career shaped her leadership style 04:29 - Julia’s go-to playlist and the power of emotional uplift 08:39 - The importance of mindset and habits for authentic leadership 09:45 - Leading through energy, positivity, and integrity 12:29 - Setting boundaries to balance work and family 14:36 - Overcoming the challenge of managing experts who know more 20:25 - The empowering lesson: Nobody is indispensable 22:12 - Recognising the value of diverse opinions and storytelling backed by data 27:27 - Progress made in providing equality of facilities and opportunities 39:27 - The industry’s role in delivering sustainability and diversity goals by 2030