KnowThyBrand - Championing gender inclusion in business

As artificial intelligence continues to evolve at an unprecedented rate, a pressing question looms: Should we, as humans, be afraid of AI, or is it simply the next step in our technological evolution? With fears that AI will replace jobs, disrupt industries, and redefine how we work, it's natural to wonder about our place in a world increasingly dominated by machines. But instead of fearing the rise of AI, perhaps the real challenge is how we adapt. How can we stay relevant in a landscape that's changing rapidly, without losing the very essence of what makes us human? In this article, we'll explore how to harness AI's potential while preserving the qualities that make us irreplaceable—creativity, emotional intelligence, and the unique human touch.In this insightful episode, Giulia welcomes Joan Palmiter-Bajorek, linguist, ex-academic, and founder of Women in Voice, to explore the intersection of AI, gender equality, and career resilience in an ever-changing tech landscape.Joan brings a wealth of personal experience to the table—having navigated two layoffs in the AI sector, she turned her challenges into a roadmap for others through her new book Your AI Roadmap. From building a standout personal brand to advocating for more inclusive datasets, Joan shares her unique perspective on how individuals and organizations can thrive during this era of digital disruption.This episode is a must-listen for anyone wondering how to future-proof their career, navigate tech's volatility, and push for equity in a male-dominated industry.Click here for show notes and resources mentioned in this episode. 

Traditional economic models prioritize profit and endless growth, often at the expense of social and ecological well-being. But what if there was a better way?In this thought-provoking episode, we welcome Jennifer Brandsberg Engelmann, an expert in regenerative economics, to explore how economic education can evolve to address today's pressing global crises. From the Donut Economics model to the overlooked role of households and commons in economic systems, Jennifer shares how shifting our perspective on value and sustainability can pave the way for a more inclusive and resilient future.Together, Jennifer and Giulia discuss the urgent need to rethink economic education, the barriers to change, and the optimism surrounding this movement. If you've ever questioned whether our economic system truly serves people and the planet, this episode is a must-listen.Click here for show notes and resources mentioned in this episode. 

As we leave another International Women's Day behind, the conversation about gender equity in the workplace remains more important than ever. True gender equality isn't about good intentions—it's about data-driven change that dismantles bias and creates real opportunities for everyone.In this special episode, we welcome Iris Bohnet, Harvard professor, behavioral economist, and co-author of Make Work Fair: Data-Driven Design for Real Results. Iris challenges the myths surrounding fairness, diversity, and meritocracy, offering research-backed strategies to make workplaces more equitable.From why traditional diversity efforts fail to how data can drive real change, this conversation is a powerful reminder that fairness benefits not just women, but entire organizations and economies.Click here for show notes and resources mentioned in this episode. 

Networking is more than just exchanging business cards—it's about building genuine connections, finding a supportive community, and amplifying each other's voices. For Yulia Kulakova, fostering these connections is at the heart of her work.In this insightful episode, Yulia and Giulia discuss the power of professional networks, the challenges women face in corporate environments, and the importance of creating safe spaces where women can thrive. From overcoming networking discomfort to addressing gender biases in communication, this conversation sheds light on how women can support each other and grow both personally and professionally.Click here for show notes and resources mentioned in this episode. 

Effective communication is the cornerstone of successful fundraising, yet many startup founders overlook its importance. For Ksenia Zykova, Chief Communications Officer at AngelsDeck Global Ventures and founder of NODE Communications, mastering both verbal and non-verbal communication is key to making a lasting impression on investors.Ksenia has dedicated her career to helping B2B projects, startup founders, and venture capital firms refine their messaging and presence. In this compelling episode, she joins Giulia to discuss the unique challenges female entrepreneurs face in VC funding and how they can harness communication strategies to increase their chances of success.Click here for show notes and resources mentioned in this episode. 

Storytelling has the power to drive awareness, inspire connection, and create meaningful change. In this episode, we sit down with Emmy-winning filmmaker Robin N. Hamilton, founder of ARound Robin Production Company, to explore how her mission-driven work amplifies marginalized voices - particularly those of women and Black women whose contributions have often been overlooked. Robin shares her journey from corporate rejections to building a production company centered on impactful narratives, offering a candid look at the grit and vision required to succeed as an entrepreneur.In this energetic and vibrant episode, Robin and Giulia discuss the emotional highs and lows of entrepreneurship, the importance of staying rooted in your purpose, and the strategies that sustain mission-driven storytelling. From navigating budget constraints with nonprofits to creating sustainable income streams, Robin's insights are a must-hear for creatives and changemakers alike. Tune in to discover how Robin champions the stories that matter and learn actionable takeaways for building resilience and amplifying impactful voices. For the full article, visit our website.Click here for show notes and resources mentioned in this episode. 

Navigating a return to the workforce after a career break can be a daunting task. Whether due to family responsibilities, relocation, or a shift in personal priorities, many of us find it challenging to reenter our chosen fields after stepping away. In this episode on Embracing Career Returners and Redefining Workforce Inclusion we're joined by Esther Celosse. Esther is the founder of Return2Career, a company with the objective of supporting organizations to tap into the highly experienced and under-utilized professional talent pool of returners, while increasing gender equality and employer brand value through custom designed Returner programsClick here for show notes and resources mentioned in this episode. 

In this inspiring episode, we welcome Robin, the co-founder of Girl Power Uganda, an organization dedicated to empowering women through education and tackling menstrual poverty.In Uganda, where systemic challenges often limit opportunities for women and girls, two sisters turned their passion for change into a mission. Robin and Amanda, athletes and advocates, founded Girl Power Uganda to address the declining school attendance among girls and empower communities through education and opportunity.Robin shares her journey as a passionate advocate for women's rights, growing up in Uganda, and her dedication to creating lasting change in her community.From fundraising initiatives to collaborations with local organizations, Robin provides a glimpse into the challenges and achievements of her work. She also emphasizes the critical role that education, sports, and community support play in breaking cultural taboos and addressing the global issue of menstrual poverty.Donate to Girl Power Uganda HEREClick here for show notes and resources mentioned in this episode.

In this impactful episode, we dive into the critical issue of sexual and gender-based violence, featuring special guests Maria Grazia Surace and Stéphanie Makoumbou from LA VOIX DES SURVIVANT(E)S, an advocacy association supporting survivors of violence. Founded by survivor Ana Pinto, the organization is committed to assisting victims and amplifying their voices in society and within the legislative process in Luxembourg. Maria and Stéphanie, both lawyers, share their personal motivations for joining the association and discuss their efforts to strengthen support systems for survivors.Together, they outline  LA VOIX DES SURVIVANT(E)S' mission and the pressing need for reform in Luxembourg's legal framework to better protect victims. Their conversation provides a deep look at how societal attitudes and legal systems must evolve to address both overt and subtle forms of violence effectively.Topics Covered:Founding and Mission of  LA VOIX DES SURVIVANT(E)S: Established in 2022, the association is dedicated to supporting survivors of gender-based violence and advocating for better legislation. Their primary goals are to help victims regain independence and ensure their voices are heard in policy discussions.Addressing Legislative Gaps:Maria and Stéphanie highlight the association's advocacy work, focusing on the need to criminalize psychological violence, coercive control, harassment, femicide, and economic violence. They stress that Luxembourg's current laws inadequately address non-physical forms of abuse, which are equally damaging.Proposed Reforms for Victim Support: The association's proposed legislation includes establishing an official victim status, which would improve access to housing, psychological support, and other essential services. Plans for a national support center are also discussed, which would centralize aid and improve data collection on violence.Support for Children: The association aims to protect child co-victims of violence, advocating for stronger legal safeguards and access to support services tailored to the needs of young survivors.Educational Initiatives and Training: To shift societal perspectives, the organization focuses on educating police, judges, and social workers on handling cases of violence compassionately and effectively. Their work in schools helps inform young people about the impact of violence and the importance of empathy and prevention.Cultural Shifts and Specialized Courts: The conversation emphasizes the need for a cultural change in perceptions of both victims and perpetrators. The association calls for specialized courts to ensure that cases of gender-based violence receive the appropriate sensitivity and understanding in the justice system.Maria and Stéphanie close by reflecting on the vital importance of societal support and collective action in combating violence and supporting survivors.Click here for show notes and resources mentioned in this episode.

Today's guest on KnowThyBrand Podcast is the CEO of HSBC, Emanuele Vignoli. HSBC and KnowThyBrand have worked together on several projects, and in this episode, Emanuele talks about HSBC's active role in gender finance and discusses the upcoming event organized by HSBC and KnowThyBrand: The Gender Inclusion Challenge: When Myths and Perceptions Meet Facts and Data. This event will bring together representatives from different companies to challenge preconceptions around gender equality and promote actionable solutions in the workplace.Emanuele has over 25 years of experience in the banking sector, spending nearly 20 years at HSBC in various global and regional roles. He currently serves as the CEO of HSBC Luxembourg and is a member of the Luxembourg Gender Finance Task Force. Passionate about diversity and inclusion, Emanuele has driven HSBC's efforts to promote gender equality and is actively involved in initiatives aimed at removing barriers for women in the financial industry.Register for The Gender Inclusion Challenge event hereClick here for show notes and resources mentioned in this episode.

What is gendered innovations? Gendered innovations refer to the creative and transformative processes that integrate sex and gender analysis into research and design. Rather than treating gender as an afterthought or a mere demographic concern, gendered innovations actively incorporate it as a critical variable that can influence the direction and outcomes of research. In this episode of KnowThyBrand Podcast, prof. Londa Schiebinger, from Stanford University, explains how accounting for sex and gender differences can lead to more accurate results, safer products, and more inclusive innovationsClick here for show notes and resources mentioned in this episode. 

In the dynamic world of startups, securing venture capital is often a critical step towards scaling a business. However, for female founders, this journey can be fraught with additional challenges due to biases and stereotypes.Our guests in this episode are Tülin Tokatli and Hale Yildiz from Pitch Me First and they discussed the challenges faced by female founders in the venture capital industry. They highlighted the low percentage of funding received by female-led startups and the biases and cultural barriers they encounter during the fundraising process. They also explained the importance of increasing diversity in VC teams and suggested measures such as prioritizing female-led teams and promoting visibility for female founders.Click here for show notes and resources mentioned in this episode. 

Have you ever felt held back from pursuing your dreams or potential due to beliefs about your own abilities? You're not alone. In today's episode, psychologist Carolina Nikaedo explains how we form self-limiting beliefs from a young age and shares strategies to overcome them. She also dives deep into neuroplasticity - the brain's ability to form new connections. Through a focused effort to bring beliefs to consciousness, to take space and engage rational thinking, and to intentionally replace negative thoughts, we can "rewire" our brains.It's not easy to overcome deeply ingrained beliefs, but it is possible with neuroplasticity. With awareness, intention and practice strengthening new neural pathways over time, neuroplasticity allows us to reshape our self-image and overcome what once felt like fixed limitations. Because our abilities are not predetermined - there is always room for growth.Click here for show notes and resources mentioned in this episode. 

Ageism, the discrimination or prejudice against individuals based on their age, remains a pervasive issue in today's workplaces. Recent studies reveal that nearly 65% of workers have experienced age-based discrimination at some point in their careers.In today's episode Avivah Wittenberg-Cox, a thought leader in gender and generational balance and a CEO of 20-first, discusses the four phases of women's careers and the overlaps between gender and age. Avivah also highlights the need for companies to leverage the talent and potential of older workers in the 21st century because embracing age diversity isn't just about compliance or meeting quotas; it's about unlocking the full potential of every employee and creating a workplace where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute their best.Click here for show notes and resources mentioned in this episode. 

Authenticity isn't just a buzzword—it's the cornerstone of building meaningful professional relationships, nurturing a strong brand reputation, and ultimately achieving lasting success. In a world where polished LinkedIn profiles and perfectly curated Instagram feeds can sometimes overshadow genuine connections, join us in this episode to discover the importance of staying true to yourself in every business interaction.At the same time, no matter how many accolades we add to our resumes or LinkedIn profiles, many of us battle with that nagging feeling of not being "enough." Imposter Syndrome sneaks in, whispering doubts and fears that can hold us back from reaching our full potential.In today's episode Sophie Mathur, a Mergers and Acquisitions lawyer and Corporate Partner at Linklaters shares her story of success as well as her insights and practical strategies to not only overcome Imposter Syndrome but also to thrive authentically in your professional journey. Because at the end of the day, it's our human experiences and connections that truly define success.Click here for show notes and resources mentioned in this episode 

In this episode, we're privileged to sit down with Mr. Gilles Roth, the Minister of Finance in Luxembourg. With a wealth of experience in both finance and politics, Mr. Roth offers unique insights into Luxembourg's pivotal role in global finance and its commitment to sustainable and inclusive financial practices.Join us as we explore Luxembourg's journey to becoming a cornerstone of international finance within the European Union, the challenges and opportunities of sustainable finance, and the initiatives driving gender diversity and inclusion in the financial sector.Topics covered in this episode:Luxembourg's position in global financeImportance of competitiveness, attractiveness, and legislative modernization to sustain Luxembourg's financial prominenceChallenges in sustainable finance, including regulatory complexities and data complianceAcknowledgment of gender disparities in finance and initiatives to foster women's involvement.Women in Finance Charter and its impact on gender diversity within companies.Discussion on the Gender Finance Task ForceReiteration of commitment to promoting gender finance and diversity globally.

In this episode,  Danielle Di Martino, CEO and chief strategist at QI Research, delves into the critical importance of financial literacy and inclusion.  Drawing from her own journey, Danielle highlights the underrepresentation of women in finance and stresses the necessity of empowering them through financial education.Topics covered in this episode: Importance of financial literacy and inclusionGender disparities in financeChallenges and advice for women in financePromoting financial literacy through accessible resourcesEducating young people about money managementAdvocacy for incorporating financial literacy into school curriculaConnect with Danielle on Twitter and make sure you take a look at her new book Fed Up: An Insider's Take on Why the Federal Reserve is Bad for America

At the heart of every organization lies the human element—their values, aspirations, and stories. It is in embracing and nurturing this humanity that true leadership and organizational excellence emerge.In this episode of KnowThyBrand, Pascal Viscor, an entrepreneur, storyteller, and strategist, shares his insights into the significance of purpose and vision for companies. The conversation covered the transformative potential of authentic storytelling, the essence of cultivating trust within organizational cultures, and the importance of aligning values with actions.Topics covered in this episode include:Importance of Enthusiasm and Resilience in Business Development Building Authenticity and Trust in Organizational Culture The Role of Leadership in Fostering Inclusivity The Evolution of Organizational Culture Reflecting on the Progress and Future Direction of Organizational CultureFind out more about Pascal and his work. 

Ever wondered how many business cards you've handed out recently? For most, it's a fleeting exchange, a mere formality in the whirlwind of networking. But for Martine Bosch, founder of Ecofluent, each business card is a statement—an embodiment of sustainability, innovation, and the power of conscious consumption.In a world where disposable culture reigns supreme, Martine's approach challenges the norm and inspires us to rethink the way we connect and consume. Her unique business card, crafted from repurposed cardboard, make it evident that there is something remarkable about her and her mission.Topics covered in this episode include:Introduction to the concept of responsible consumptionReducing, reusing, and repairing items over constant buying and throwing awayConsumer power in driving change through purchasing decisionsFast fashion and the need for sustainable alternativesThe importance of individual action and collective advocacyCircular design as a key element in transitioning to a sustainable economyAdvocating for policy changes to support sustainable practicesThe necessity of embracing responsible consumption for a sustainable futureFind out more about Martine and her amazing work!

“From a very young age, girls are often taught to diminish our skills. You don't want to take too much credit, and you don't want to be too assertive, but at the same time, you have to be confident. But you can't be self promoting. So, don't promote yourself too much, but at the same time, be assertive and have leadership traits.”These are the words that my most recent guest on KnowThyBrand Women podcast, Mary Chung Hayashi, used when talking about women in politics. Mary Chung Hayashi is an award-winning author, national healthcare leader, and former California State Assemblymember. With a distinguished career in public service, Mary has spearheaded substantial reforms in mental health services, championed gender equality, and forged powerful, unprecedented partnerships for social causes that previously had no financial or public backing.In her book Women in Politics, Mary offers a riveting exploration of the strides made by women in government. This essential, contemporary analysis bridges the gap between past and present, blending Mary's personal journey as an Asian American immigrant and former California State Assemblymember with the inspiring stories of trailblazing women in political leadership. Featuring interviews and insightful discussions, Mary brings to life the trials and triumphs of these women, showcasing their invaluable contributions to political landscapes and the transformative power of their perseverance. Her work sheds light on the ongoing struggles for gender-political parity and serves as a call to action: we must actively participate in shaping our democracy.

In a recent podcast episode, I had the honor to sit down with the former Minister of Finance and current Minister of Defence, Minister for Mobility and Public Works and Minister for Gender Equality and Diversity in Luxembourg, Yuriko Backes. We started our conversation by discussing a transformative initiative that marked a significant milestone in the pursuit of gender equality—the Luxembourg Women in Finance Charter - we followed with important insights into her experiences and the broader efforts to promote gender equality. Some of the topics we covered include:The importance of embracing the diverse needs of the LGBTIQA+ community The critical role of individuals, regardless of gender, in making a conscious effort to include diverse voices Financial independence for womenThe fight against gender-based violence Man allyshipand much more!

Amidst the prevailing gender disparities in today's society, one might wonder if reconciliation between the genders is even possible. Enter William Keepin and Cynthia Brix, the authors of the book "Gender Equity and Reconciliation." Their interesting work offers a different perspective on fostering harmony and understanding between men and women, paving the way for a brighter future.For over three decades, William and Cynthia have dedicated their lives to reshaping the conversation around gender and sexuality, challenging societal norms and inspiring individuals to embrace transformative change. Their work, encapsulated in their book, provides a safe space for people to share their truths without judgment, guilt, or blame. It is a collaborative journey towards gender reconciliation, rooted in the concept of Ubuntu – "I am because you are."

In an era where businesses often prioritise profit above all else, Johnny Pawlik, the driving force behind Mantra Media, emerges as a beacon of hope for those seeking a more ethical approach to marketing and entrepreneurship. With a compelling story and a philosophy that transcends the ordinary, Johnny embodies a commitment to ethical values in business that inspires many.In fact, Forbes has bestowed the prestigious title of the "most ethical marketing and branding company" upon Johnny's company, solidifying their unparalleled reputation in the industry.With Johnny we discussed:  Honesty and Transparency as foundations of SuccessChoosing the Right Employees and the Right ClientsOvercoming Challenges and Discovering PurposeWhat Does Success Mean to You Find out more about Johnny: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mantramarketing/and about Mantra Marketing: http://www.mantrahq.com/

In an era where gender equality is a pressing global concern, Daniele stands at the forefront of challenging traditional norms and advocating for change. Daniele Fiandaca, the visionary founder of Token Man Consulting, is an expert in the field of inclusion and diversity. His insights on the pivotal role of men in the gender equality movement, as well as the obstacles they face, provide a fresh perspective on this critical issue.Daniele's journey toward advocating for gender diversity began a decade ago during his career in advertising, where he held various leadership roles. At that time, he organized events for creative directors globally, including one pivotal dinner event for twelve women. While the presence of twelve women didn't surprise him, what transpired when he entered the room was entirely unexpected.Upon entering the dinner, Daniele experienced an abrupt loss of confidence—an invisible force seemed to snatch it away. As the dinner progressed, he found himself surrounded by conversations he couldn't relate to, pushing him further into the periphery. When he attempted to introduce the dinner he had funded, his co-host, a woman, interrupted him. These experiences were strikingly similar to what women often encounter in male-dominated settings.It was through these firsthand experiences that Daniele  truly grasped what it felt like to be part of the "out group." Despite his numerous privileges, he hadn't fully comprehended the extent of the impact such exclusionary experiences could have on individuals. This awakening marked the beginning of his commitment to driving change in the field of gender equality.In this episode Daniele Talks with us about:> The Necessity of Men's Involvement> Fostering Uncomfortable Conversations> Positive Masculinity: Nurturing a New NarrativeLinks and resources: Masculinity in the Workplace (21 Nov) https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/masculinity-in-the-workplace-2023-virtual-edition-tickets-705891599777?aff=oddtdtcreator Token Man Panel series - https://www.eventbrite.com/cc/token-man-panel-series-1095089 Token Man Brave Spaces - https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/token-man-brave-spaces-tickets-714728571397?aff=oddtdtcreat orResearch reports - https://www.tokenman.org/thought-leadership Sign up to Token Man Newsletter - http://eepurl.com/cixUBX Connect with Daniele - https://www.linkedin.com/in/danielefiandaca/ 

In the world of art, where creativity knows no bounds, lies a visionary with a passion for positive change. Patrizia Luchetta, an Italian name with an unwavering determination, is the driving force behind an inspiring non-profit organization called Charlotte in Red. This remarkable initiative aims to address gender inequality in the art world while promoting sustainability through the captivating medium of documentaries featuring talented female artists.Join us as we delve into the extraordinary work of Patricia Luchetta and explore the transformative power of art and sustainability.

Today, we have a special treat for you as we dive into the world of personal branding from a different angle with the incredible Sandy Grisby, a multi-talented photographer, and personal branding expert. In our efforts to develop our personal brand, we must acknowledge that we live in a world where image and perception matter. And like with work on our brand strategy, also with our image it's easy to fall into the trap of creating a fictional character to please others. However, Sandy urges her clients to understand their target audience without sacrificing their genuine identity.By striking a delicate balance between audience perception and personal authenticity, individuals can develop a personal brand that resonates deeply with their key stakeholders. Sandy's own journey in personal branding showcases the power of being genuine - a key aspect that has helped her connect with clients worldwide.So, let's explore the significance of authenticity, the power of natural photos, and the art of personal branding that stands out from the crowd.Find out more about Sandy's services here -> https://www.sandyinfocus.com/

In a world often filled with negativity, there are individuals and organizations working tirelessly to make a difference and create a better, more inclusive world. In our latest podcast episode, we had the honor of meeting Emanuele Santi, the visionary founder of "Riding the Rainbow," and Lena Shevchenko, a Ukrainian mother living in Luxembourg, who discussed their project's journey toward inclusivity and the power of donations to positively impact lives.How You Can Get Involved?Through Riding the Rainbow, people have the opportunity to form connections and better understand the struggles and triumphs of others, fostering a sense of gratitude and support.Here are the steps you can take to get involved today: Download the Riding the Rainbow app from their official website to participate in this transformative project.Encourage others to use the app and donate unused items, such as bicycles, toys, books, electronics, and more, to make a difference in the lives of refugees and vulnerable migrants.Advocate for the integration of technology platforms like the Riding the Rainbow app to foster empathy and understanding among individuals from diverse backgrounds.Support the mission of Riding the Rainbow by spreading awareness and exploring opportunities for collaboration or support from organizations interested in promoting inclusivity and creating a better world.Involve children in acts of giving back by encouraging them to use the app and witness firsthand the impact their donations can have on someone else's life.So, it's time to hop on this rainbow ride of spreading love, care, and support. Are you ready to make a difference? Download the app, spread the word, and let's change lives, one small act of kindness at a time. Together, we can truly make this world a better place!

In this podcast conversation, we had the pleasure of chatting with Hope, a remarkable woman who took a leap of faith and transformed her career from being a traditional yoga teacher to establishing her very own successful business called "Mother Trucker Yoga”. We dug deep into her journey, exploring the challenges she faced and the incredible decision-making process that led her to discover her true calling: providing truck drivers with unique yoga and wellness solutions.-> Key takeaway: The Power of Focused Targeting and Niche MarketingHope emphasized the importance of unwavering focus and truly understanding the unique problem she aimed to solve for her target audience. Initially, she grappled with the fear of narrowing her marketing efforts exclusively to truck drivers, worried about alienating a potentially larger market. However, by staying true to her mission and wholeheartedly targeting truck drivers, she found her path to success.Find out more about Mother Trucker Yoga herewww.facebook.com/MotherTruckerYogawww.instagram.com/mothertruckeryogawww.MotherTruckerYoga.com 

In this episode, we talk with Maria Elo, an associate professor at the University of Southern Denmark and an immigration fellow at the Institute of Migration. Drawing from her academic expertise and personal experiences, Maria sheds light on the challenges encountered by spousal migrants and provides insights into this crucial topic. With a particular focus on women, Maria also highlights the alarming consequences of losing valuable talent due to inadequate support systems.In this episode, we cover:Different types of challenges faced by migrants, including institutional challenges related to formal identity and private business challenges related to social and work-life contextsThe challenge of language barriers faced by migrants and the difficulties of investing in language learning while balancing other responsibilitiesThe importance of long-term planning and strategic engagement with one's own talent and future developmentThe need for multi-stakeholder engagement to discuss how to put different resources into use and create innovation and developmentThe importance of doing a personal analysis of potential pathways before making decisionsJoin us as we explore the barriers faced by women in particular, the impact on individuals, companies, and society at large, and potential solutions to address this issue.FInd out more about Maria here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/maria-elo-593579a2/

This episode is dedicated to Iran and the people who are protesting after the killing of Mahsa Amini. While most news outlets have long stopped covering what is happening in Iran after the initial wave of protests started in September, the reality is that people in Iran are still challenging the Government.In this episode, we talk with Nahid Mohammadi and Shabnam Sabzehi, two brave women who left Iran but continue to support women in their home country from Luxembourg.In this episode, we cover:A brief recap of Iran's history. How did we get here?What is it like to live in Iran as a young woman What happened after the killing of Mahsa Amini and why is such a different type of protest from previous onesThe role of men supporting women in this protest.What is happening at the moment, in Iran and outside in terms of fighting the regime What we can all doTune in to learn more about the protests in Iran and what people from all over the world can do.

In this episode, we talk with Cornelia Lucey, a Leadership psychologist and business owner.Cornelia shares with us what ‘Positive Leadership' is and how it integrates what we know from the leadership field in what creates the most effective leaders, with what we know from the science of positive psychology to offer us an integrated model of leadership that brings the best in wellbeing and performance from leaders and others.Over 2020 and 2022 Cornelia Lucey and Jolanta Burke developed a memorable framework called the ALIGHT model to help the world to understand how we can develop more effective leadership approaches from this combination of research fields.The ‘ALIGHT' model talks about six specific resources that when applied and developed make the biggest difference in how leaders and their teams feel and perform. These six resources are:Abundance -> a leader's inclination towards seeing, developing, and using their own, other people's and organisational strengths.Limberness -> a leader's ability to adapt, be emotionally agile and become resilient in changing contexts.Inspiration -> is a resource that helps leaders inspire others to become the best versions of themselves. t differs from leaders being perceived as inspirational, which implies they are superhuman. Inspiration is not a superhuman quality but a resource that helps leaders move themselves and their teams to resolute action.Grand Design -> is a leader's ability to transcend day-to-day activities into meaningful contributions and vice versa. Health -> consists of three elements: promotion, which relates to leaders taking action to promote healthy behaviours; orientation, referring to leaders taking action to ensure a healthy environment; and full integration, which refers to healthy exchanges between leaders and their tribe and consideration of wider stakeholders.Tribe -> the leaders' ability to assess, initiate, foster, develop and redevelop relationships to meet our relational needs as an individual, team, organisation or within a system.To find out more about the ALIGHT model visit https://www.cornelialucey.com/the-book

In this episode, we have a very special guest: Neve Swart, an 8 years old girl who, despite her young age, is already raising money for children in Africa.Neve is from South Africa and has been living in Luxembourg since January 2021.  Recently, she realised that she had a skill and a passion for doing nails and other beauty treatments and started treating her much delighted mother. Others started noticing her mom's nails, and were extremely surprised when they were told that Neve did them. Soon the ‘'bookings'' started flying in. However, when her ‘'clients'' started to give her money she did not feel comfortable receiving the money for herself. She thought about this for a while, and approached her mother - saying ‘'Mom I love doing nails for others, however I think there are others that need the money more than me'', she then asked if she could start a fund and raise money for children back in South Africa. Growing up in South Africa she was exposed to many families and children who are in need of a home, food, clothing, love and care. While living in South Africa she would donate her clothes, toys and make sandwiches for others - she thus felt she needed to do more for the children back home now that she is living away from home.And that's how her adventure started.Today she has already made a donation to the 'Eastern Province Child and Youth Care centre' and she is planning to reach an even more ambitious goal: raising Eur 500 for a new donation to the centre.Help Neve reach her goal either by contacting hi@knowthybrand.com to book a manicure if you are in Luxembourg (we will put you in contact with her parents) or by donating directly at her fundraising page: https://urlzs.com/uV9qh

In this very special and moving episode, we speak with 3 women from Ukraine: Iryna Volnytska, Nataly Veremeeva, and Valeriia Kotsur.Iryna and Nataly live and work in a country at war and share with us how this has changed their life but also how this war is affecting men and women differently and how Ukraine is, despite it all, still pushing its Tech agenda with the women taking center stage. Valeriia shares her experience of support from abroad to help build a bright future for Ukraine after the war.In particular we discussed:- What it is to actually live in a country at war. Let's remember that the war is not just in the news but in real people's life.- The role of women in the war, particularly as, while some women have joined the army, still conscription only applies to men or people working in key sectors like hospitals. - This means that women are free to leave the country, and that's why they were able to move to other countries with the kids. But women abroad work tirelessly to support their country from abroad as ambassadors to raise awareness, raise funds, collect donations and much more- In the meantime, with all the traditional heavy industries being destroyed, Ukraine is investing in its Tech capabilities, with the tech industry still thriving despite the war. - Interestingly women are also changing jobs to respond to the destruction of some of the more traditional industries and they move to tech. In fact today in Ukraine, there are more women enrolling in STEM courses the men, a unique case in the world.- Iryina, Nataly, and Valeriia also share their positive outlook for a bright future for Ukraine and their hope for more support from Europe to help build together a future of peace for all. 

In this episode, we talk with Kate Monserrate, co-founder and director of Simplify Consulting.Kate, together with her business partner Carl and their team decided to invest substantial resources, in terms of financial, personnel, and time resources, to create a seriously impressive whitepaper on a  topic that could make us wonder: gender equality. What does gender equality have to do with financial consulting? It turns up, a lot.Listen to Kate as she runs us through the 3 areas of their whitepaper:- Education and fighting stereotypes about gender roles from a very young age- Women's life stages (particularly the effects of motherhood and menopause on career)- Internal barriers like impostor syndrome.Kate shares very useful insights on how to address these matters, never expecting "women to fix themselves" but advocating for change inside companies like hers to foster a more inclusive future.Download read the whitepaper here: https://www.simplifyconsulting.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/Gender-Gap-White-Paper.pdfDiscover Kate here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katemonserrate/

In this episode we talk with Mari Vasan,  CEO, Entrepreneur, Professional Hypnotist, Women´s Transformational Life Coach, and Founder of MindGift.org.But that's not all! Mary is a former Wall Street senior executive and Managing Director of US Equity Research who by her full will decided to walk away from a career that, in her own words, defined her exclusively by her job title and salary, to start a new career dedicated to helping others.Today, Mari is an over 10 years experienced coach, and her life mission is to help middle-aged women start living the best half of their lives.Her top tips to find our own magic are:-> Reconnect with your own body-> Believe in yourself. We have plenty of programs that almost automatically drive our lives. Stop. Reflect. Decide.-> Decide to add value, you will be noticed.-> Decide to believe you can, as supposed to can't.-> Decide to surround yourself with positive people.-> Decide to continue caring for others, but do not forget yourself  Find out more about Mari and her work here:Linkedin: MariVasanYoutube: @marivasanFacebook: Mari VasanWebsite: Mari Vasan and MindGift.org

"You too are a brand. Whether you know it or not. Whether you like it or not".Mark eckō, founder and chief creative officer of marc eckō enterprisesIn this episode, we discover what personal branding is, and what it is not. Why you should care about it and how you can develop a strong personal brand to support your career.The main takeaways are:- Personal branding is about optimising associations, feelings, and impressions. It is about building trust.- Personal branding is NOT about creating a fictional character that we bring to work.- Working on your personal brand can help you:-->Unlock your superpower--> Boost your confidence--> Differentiate you from the competition-->Develop effective communication--> Develop thought leadershipThere are 3 main steps in developing your personal brand:1. Define your brand2. Define your audience3 Communicate your brand.1. Define your brand:WHO you are in the context of work: clearly define what you do and what benefits you bring to whom. WHY you do what you do, WHAT you want to achieve career-wise, and HOW you are going to get there. Your VALUES and how they align with the values of the company you work for or planning to work for.REASONS to believe: list them, not to share them but for YOU to acknowledge and remember.2. Define your audience:->WHO do you want to target?->WHAT are their needs?->HOW you can fulfill these needs?3. COMMUNICATE YOUR BRANDCommunicating your personal brand is about finding venues, online and not, where to demonstrate your thought leadership. In a way that works for YOU.Find out more about these 3 steps and how to build a strong personal brand by listening to this episode and contact us if you need any help with your personal branding or how to communciate it (hi@knowthybrand.com, www.knowthybrand.com)

In this episode, we host an old friend of our podcast, Felicity Hassan.Not only Felicity is the found of The Find, a recruitment agency the focus on diverse recruiting, but she is also the co-author with Suki Sandhu of an incredibly inspiring book called 'How To Get Your Act Together: A Judgement-Free Guide to Diversity and Inclusion for Straight White Men'As the name implies, the book offers a very straightforward approach to diversity, providing clear explanations for concepts we might not be so familiar with (like gender identity vs sexual orientation just to cite one), real examples of changes companies implemented to support diversity, and practical suggestions for all of us to learn and become truly inclusive.During our conversation, we focused in particular on:- Diversity fatigue, why people are tired of hearing about the need for diversity and what we can do about it- The misleading concept of meritocracy- Motivators for the C suite and middle management to embrace and promote diversity that go beyond the business case.- Allies and the difference between being not discriminatory vs being against discrimination.- the importance of active curiosity to change and inspire change.Find out more about Felicity here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/felicitybt/Find her book here: https://www.amazon.com/How-Get-Your-Together-Judgement-Free/dp/0241485215

Today, Amy Anthony runs her private practice called NYC Aromatica and is the New York State representative for the Alliance of International Aromatherapists. But this has not been always her life.Amy used to have a corporate career and it was her love and knowledge of plants that became a bridge between her corporate past and her entrepreneurial future. In this episode, we discuss with Amy about:*The importance of taking opportunities that come our way*Finding the courage to talk about money*Changing our outlook to find confidence*The all-too-common issue of undercharging*Learning to acknowledge  our value.As host of the Essential Aromatica podcast, Amy has made a name for herself as an expert in how essential oils can support wellness and vitality while increasing outputs and promoting more positive work environments.Find out more about her work: https://www.linkedin.com/in/amy-n-anthony/Instagram: @nycaromatica nycaromatica.com

In this episode, we have the absolute honor and pleasure of hosting H.E. Fleur Thomas, His Majesty's ambassador to the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg.Despite the very important (and long!) job title, H.E. Thomas candidly opens up about her professional experiences and how she has found herself in several mostly male-dominated jobs.With a very practical approach and a quick-wit and a spontaneous sense of humor, H.E. Thomas navigates us through some of the challenges that she has faced as well as how she has dealt with them.Strongly passionate about empowering women, H.E. Thomas shares her tips for companies and individuals alike, from the importance of supporting the socializing process within a business to the necessity to finding your inner strength and voice. This and so much more in this not-to-be-missed episode.

In this episode, we talk with Annette Allen, Development Team Leader at WellData, an IT company based in the UK.Annette shares her journey to starting a career in IT, the challenges she has faced as well as the opportunities that working in IT brought to her.We discuss the societal pressure put on girls when they consider a career in STEM, how this translates into low numbers of women in tech, and the negative effects of low degrees of gender diversity on business efficiency.We share ideas on how to support a more inclusive work environment and the critical role of role models and mentors. Annette even offers to answer any listener who is considering a career in tech and is looking for a mentor!Find out more about Annette and/or reach out to her here

In this episode, we talk with Lisa Burke, the famous broadcaster, inspiring woman, and mum of 2 teenagers.During our conversation, Lisa tackles a very true, but often untold, part of the amazing journey of being a mother:  the toll it can take on your career. We all wish that we can have it all, a family, kids, career, healthy diet, time for the gym, time for friends, and even a hobby perhaps. The reality though is very different, and at some point, something, or some things, have to give. It doesn't really need to be this way, but this is the situation in which many women find themselves all too often. Unfortunately, as much as we mention it in our conversations, we hardly take a proper look at what it really means for women and what could be done to truly support women instead.Lisa offers her candid view on this subject and bravely shares her own experience in the hope of supporting other women and inspiring change-makers to embrace and address this challenge.A massive thank you to Lisa for giving voice to a struggle that too often is left to women to deal with in isolation.Find out more about Lisa:https://www.lisatoniburke.com/https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-burke-4272276/?originalSubdomain=lu 

A fantastic episode packed with research, information, and insights about financial inclusion, why it matters, how it affects women, and what we can do about it.Our guest is Mary Ellen Iskenderian, the President and CEO of Women's World Banking, a passionate advocate for women's economic empowerment, and the author of the incredibly important book "There's Nothing Micro About a Billion Women: Making Finance Work for Women"With Mary Ellen we discuss: - What financial inclusion is and how it relates to gender inclusion.- The3 pillars of financial inclusion: ability to save, ability to borrow, and insurance- Why microfinance, as much as it is critically important, alone is not the answer to the gender inclusion problem- Digitalisation of finance, how it is helping close the gender financial gap, and the potential role of fintech companies- Practical recommendations that we can all implement to have an impact.Find out more about Mary Ellen here: https://www.womensworldbanking.org/about-us/our-team/mary-ellen-iskenderian/

It is a well-known fact that a diverse workforce brings greater creativity, social justice, and financial returns. And yet, all too often effectively recruiting diverse candidates seems a challenge for most companies.Felicity Hassan, Board member, book author, and co-founder of The Find, shares with us how to effectively hire for diversity.Felicity founded her company precisely with the intention of helping companies look beyond the sea of traditional candidates to spot diverse leaders. In this episode, she tells her journey from being on the receiving end of horrific hiring experiences to driving inclusive recruitment. She explains how diversity is not only the right thing to do but also a competitive advantage that can take your business to the next level.With Felicity, we talk about gender diversity in the context of intersectional diversity and how different types of diversity (gender, race, sexual orientation, etc.) build and intersect with each other. We discussed why it matters for companies to truly understand diverse target audiences and why having a diverse workforce helps with that.Finally, Felicity shares her pro tips when it comes to authentically seeking diverse talent: from clearly defining the company's values and mission, to ensuring that talent research is truly inclusive, all the way to the interviewing and onboarding process, listen to Felicity to find out how you can effectively create a more diverse workforce for your business.Find out more about Felicity and her business:https://www.linkedin.com/in/felicitybt/https://www.thefindpartners.com/

In this episode, we talk with Dr. Ingrid Murra. In her own words, Ingrid is a mission-driven entrepreneur and orthodontist passionate about democratizing access to confidence by way of smiles. Her business, TwoFront, helps individuals get the best care for their smiles while helping small practices grow.In a world where women founders only received 2.3% of all VC funding in 2021 and latino women are a very small minority in this group, Ingrid has managed to secure $5 million for her startup.Ingrid shares with us her experience in starting a business, getting the first employees, and securing VC funds even despite the challenges that women have to face.In particular, Ingrid talks about the importance of celebrating wins and failures every single day, because we don't need to forget our achievements and we don't need to be afraid of failure.The key for Ingrid is to be prepared, determined to find solutions and to fix problems, and to stay calm and clear-minded without forgetting to accept vulnerability.Find out more about Ingrid and her business here:www.mytwofront.comIG: @mytwofront IG: @dringridmurra

What does it take to become an entrepreneur? What are the main challenges and why is it worth starting such a journey?Kasia Krzyzanowski is the founder of Neighbour Magazine, a magazine dedicated to sustainable living.  From slow living to sustainability, from circular economy to regenerative practices, Neighbour Magazine brings to its readers the stories of the people around us who are making and doing, creating places, spaces, products, and ideas that make our world a better place.Kasia shares with us how she came up with the idea for her magazine, her passion for providing practical solutions to the current environmental crisis, and her determination to keep a positive outlook.Kasia talks about the perks and the challenges of being an entrepreneur, the importance of having a clear vision and defined goals, as well the crucial importance of finding people different from us that can help us grow our business beyond what we could do on our own.A very honest and down-to-earth conversation about what it means to be an entrepreneur, this episode is ideal for people who are considering starting their entrepreneurial journey.

In this episode, we speak with Fiona Murden, psychologist, podcast host, and author of the book Mirror Thinking.Fiona explains to us how mirror thinking is not only the process of observational learning but also the key to social understanding and emotional intelligence.From there, we expand the conversation to a variety of  complex yet critical topics including:Mirroring and counter mirroring, how we choose them and how they shape usThe difference between meritocracy and mirrorcrazy, are we being really objective when we promote or recruit talent?The importance of attainable and relatable role models to inspire real changeMentorship as growth and support and the responsibilities that come with being a mentorVulnerability, what it means for leaders, and the concept of insightful vulnerabilityEmpathy, it is a good skill but can be counterproductive when unmanagedSo much to learn from Fiona!Find out more https://fionamurden.com/ 

In this episode we talk with Flo Williams, an elite rugby player both for premiership clubs (currently Wasps) & internationally capped with Wales, as well as the Women's Sports Lead with MATTA, a marketing sports agency.With Flo we discussed her journey as a female sportswoman in a traditionally male sport like rugby, the challenges she faces but also the amazing opportunities that come with playing in a team at an elite level.We discussed what kept her going when the challenges kept on coming and how these experiences have shaped her as a professional woman.Finally, we talked about the importance of role models and what an impact sports marketing is having in showcasing inspiring women.Find out more about Flo here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/flo-williams/And about MATTA here: https://www.linkedin.com/company/matta/

This episode is packed with incredible knowledge, information, and insights on gender inclusion. Kristen, Vice-Chair at European Women on Boards and Former Chief DEI Officer at Barilla, shares her experience as a woman in STEM as well as a champion for gender inclusion. Kristen talks about some horror stories women face in a highly man-dominated field like STEM, like being asked to take additional tests for the same job while male candidates aren't. She also covers unintentional bias, particularly affinity bias and proximity bias.Most importantly, Kristen revolutionises the concept of quotas: moving away from the idea that quotas work with women being promoted on the pure basis of their gender regardless of their abilities, Kristen defines quotas as KPIs: it is a fact that gender inclusion brings benefits to businesses, so like any other project in business we need KPIs to define clear goals and track results. This concept involves a real commitment to seek and grow female talent within the organization and to ensure that we move from diversity to real inclusion.Find out more:About Kristen here: https://www.linkedin.com/in/kristen-anderson-aaa44a8/About European Women on Boards http://europeanwomenonboards.eu/

In this episode, Georges shares his insights into supporting a more inclusive society; Georges talks about his experience as a father, as a CEO, and as an entrepreneur who works in a traditionally male-dominated industry such as the Fintech area.Covering topics from the role of AI in gender equalit  to unconscious  bias, from self confidence to promotions at work, Georges provides practical tips to women on how to overcome some common self-limiting habits to increase their chances to succeed in business.At the same time, Georges encourages companies and the society at large to address the lack of equal opportunities and to work all together towards a more gender-inclusive future.Find out more about Georges and his company herehttps://www.linkedin.com/in/georges-bock-882ba418https://www.linkedin.com/mwlite/company/investre

In this episode, we talk with Brian Ballantyne, co-founder of Men for Inclusion and author of the book 'Confessions of a working father'.Brian explains how the idea of Men for Inclusion came about and his personal journey from being a female ally to becoming actively involved in gender inclusion.With him, we discuss the challenges that men might face in recognising the disparities that still exist between women and men at work and the risk of not recognising those biases and sense of entitlement that might cloud our assessment of work-related situations.We also talk about the importance of becoming role models to normalise gender equality, to show what women can do in a professional environment and what men can do at work and outside work to support them. Finally, Brian shares his favourite brand, C&A: an inclusive brand that makes him feel good.Find out more about Brian's multiple projects here:https://www.linkedin.com/in/brian-ballantyne-336754/https://www.amazon.co.uk/Confessions-Working-Father-Brian-Ballantyne/dp/1729107281/https://www.e2w.co/men-for-inclusion/https://wide.lu/

In this episode, Sara Kaiser, Program Director at Luxembourg Tech School, shares her experience of working with the next generation and the challenges - and possible solutions/steps -  to attract and retain more girls in STEM courses.A few key points include gender stereotypes and most importantly the stereotype threat -> the risk of confirming negative stereotypes that creates high cognitive load and stress to the point of reducing effective performance.Sara also covers the importance of a positive social environment where peers are diverse and welcoming and where role models are visible and inspiring (both for girls and boys)Other topics we covered include:How important it is to have people from diverse backgrounds, experiences and education in the tech sectorHow tech companies can profit from people coming from fields like the arts, humanities, etcCareer changes and how to find your way to the broad field of techThis episode is part of a series dedicated to the campaign "The power of Gender Equality" a campaign that KnowThyBrand and the LhOFT have launched to champion women in finance and technologyFind our more about Sara here https://www.linkedin.com/in/sara-kaiser-94384821/ and more about Luxembourg Tech School here https://www.techschool.lu/