Shipping Podcast - listen to the maritime professionals in the world of shipping

Happy International Day for Women in Maritime 2025!  Lena is at the IMO to celebrate the International Day for Women in Maritime and attend the IMO Gender Equality Award Ceremony.  The International Day for Women in Maritime has been celebrated globally on May 18th every year since 2019. This year, the International Maritime Organisation is conducting a Symposium on the theme An Ocean of Opportunities for Women.  Of course, the highlight of the day will be the IMO Gender Equality Award, which this year goes to maritime entrepreneur Karin Orsel, co-founder and CEO of the MF Shipping Group.  Join me in celebrating all women in the maritime industry, use the hashtag #WomenInMaritimeDay  Thank you for listening!  

Maritime as a gaming concept Maria Yiassa is the Co-Founder of SeaOrama, a strategic game where you can experience the challenges of running a successful shipping company. This is the way to raise the profile of the maritime industry! Get the gamers and their parents interested, and there is a way to influence young people to choose a career within the maritime sector. Brilliant!  Listen to Maria and hear the story of a startup in the new digital age. Remember to support this initiative! It's one of a kind, and remember where you heard about it. Thank you for listening!  #everyconversationmatters   

Are we following the times? Leadership and situational awareness are not part of maritime education. If we want to achieve our goals to become sustainable, then we need the right people.  So many things have to change for us to become seriously competitive with other industries. We need to target very young children so that we can become part of their dreams.  Listen to Camilla Westergaard, one of the young people who dares to speak up. Our conversation involves a few answers to our challenges, and maybe we can spark you to develop a few more. Please give us a shoutout on social media, and we are ready to continue this conversation online. Thank you for listening.       

Spreading the word about the maritime industry in Germany Hearing someone say you have inspired them to do something is the best feeling in the world! After listening to the Shipping Podcast, Britta Müller started the Brittas Hafen Podcast in 2021. Now, we get to "compare notes" about what it is like to be a podcaster in the maritime sphere.  Listen to Brittas and I's conversation to gain insight into our challenges and most significant wins. We enjoyed our conversation and hope that you do, too.  Should you know a Master Mariner fluent in the German language, please forward the contact details to Britta bm@brittas-hafentour.de or me hello@shippingpodcast.com  #everyconversationmatters 

Words are powerful Have you ever been the subject of a dissertation? The first 63 episodes of the Shipping Podcast laid the groundwork for an extensive research project, and now is the time to unveil the results. It's been eight years since Therese Canning contacted me to discuss her study. She mentioned using the interviews from this platform to explore what individuals in the maritime industry were discussing and who voiced opinions on sustainability.  Since then, Therese has conducted further research and has now been awarded her PhD, following additional studies on the criminalisation of seafarers.  Listen to Therese as she shares her conclusions. This episode is part of the history of the Shipping Podcast's ten years, illustrating how everything has evolved, both in terms of industry trends and how the podcast has transformed into something unique. What are your takeaways from this episode? I would love to hear from you! hello@shippingpodcast.com  Until next time; over & out.

Who leaves the maritime industry?  Meet Emma Mark, Executive Coach at EJB Coaching. She left the maritime industry for a while but has returned to contribute with her experience and knowledge. We discuss our similar experiences as women in the maritime industry and share the good and the bad. What is the current role model when entering the industry? Has it changed, or do we need to take action to make it less traditional and moulded after its predecessors? Are women in the maritime industry clear about what they want to achieve? Can we better support each other? Where are the men who share our vision? "You can check out but never leave". That also goes for the maritime industry.  Thank you for listening. If you have any thoughts or feedback, please send an email to hello@shippingpodcast.com  #everyconversationmatters 

Homecoming 250, the celebration of the US Navy and US Marine Corps' 250th anniversaries   Mark your calendar for October 9 -16, 2025, to celebrate the 250th anniversary of the U.S. Navy and U.S. Marine Corps in their birthplace - Philadelphia and the Delaware River - as a grand opening event of the Semiquincentennial of the United States.  In episode 252, George S Leone, the President and Chair of Homecoming 250, presents the entire project, how it came about and what to expect.   For the Navy 250th, Homecoming 250 plans to assemble for touring ships from both historical and current. For the Marine Corps 250th, Homecoming 250 intends to host the 100th Marine Corps Ball, where the 1st Ball was held, and celebrate at the site of Tun Tavern, the birthplace of the Marines. You can read about it here: https://www.homecoming250.org/, but you must listen to George first. He is the Mastermind behind the celebration leading up to America's 250th anniversary in 2026. Thank you for listening! #everyconversationmatters   

The disappearing act is over! I am back! Happy New Year, and best wishes for a prosperous 2025!  What are the pros and cons of continuing the Shipping Podcast?  How can I be the voice for change and progress in the maritime industry if I don't change myself? Am I able to live up to my demands on the maritime industry?  Please send me feedback on this episode; it will make my day!  hello@shippingpodcast.com  Thank you for listening! Lena

Shall I stay or should I go?  I am working my way through big decisions. Should I continue podcasting when I reach the tenth-anniversary next summer, or should I stop? How do I take the Shipping Podcast to the next level if I continue? There are so many things to consider moving forward.  I am strategising, so I haven't had time to make new interviews. I am talking about why this is happening now.  What do you think? Can you help me reach a decision?  Drop me an email at hello@shippingpodcast.com  I appreciate your patience. Lena   

Navigating the Future of Maritime Sustainability In this special episode, we are honoured to welcome Arsenio Domínguez, the Secretary-General of the International Maritime Organization (IMO). Recorded during the 82nd Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) session in London, this conversation offers a rare glimpse into the mind of a visionary leader who is spearheading global efforts to protect our oceans. Arsenio shares his thoughts on the maritime industry's critical challenges, from driving change to advancing innovative sustainability solutions.  This episode is a must-list for anyone interested in maritime policy, sustainability, and the future of ocean health. Whether you work in the maritime industry, are a policy enthusiast, or are passionate about protecting our planet, this conversation will inspire and inform you.

London calling!  In this episode, I take you on a journey to London. It's like a diary of my visit from September 30 to October 2nd.  I went to https://www.nykeurope.com/ to https://www.nortonrosefulbright.com/en-gb/locations/london and to https://www.imo.org/  I hope you enjoy my little adventure.  Thanks for listening! #everyconversationmatters 

What have I learned from my mistakes? What mistakes have you made, and what have you learned? In episode 247, I share my mistakes as a podcasting host and producer, inviting you to join me in this shared learning experience. If you want to email me, please do so at hello@shippingpodcast.com  Thank you for listening! #everyconversationmatters 

On a maritime mission in Ukraine Meet Erik Froste, CEO of Swedish Roadferries, assigned by the European Union Advisory Mission for Civilian Security Sector Reform Ukraine (EUAM Ukraine), to go to Odesa and find out when Ukraine can fulfil the crucial maritime requirements of becoming a member of the European Union.  Erik was on this mission for six months earlier this year, and you must listen to his story about everyday life in Ukraine. He also speaks about the brave people he met and how he could see ports, bridges, and the Vessel Control Traffic tower being rebuilt after being demolished.  Please listen to what Erik and I discussed and consider what you can contribute. Then, please write to us at hello@shippingpodcast.com with your thoughts. #everyconversationsmatters  TAKE 2 - NEW AND IMPROVED SOUND QUALITY   

https://shippingpodcast.com/245-alison-cusack-principal-lawyer-cusack-co-pty-ltd/The Australian General Average Nerd   Alison Cusack, Principal Lawyer at Cusack & Co Pty Ltd in Melbourne, is an expert on General Average. If you have never understood the principles of the General Average, this episode is for you! In addition, there is no aspect of the maritime industry we don't touch upon in our conversation. #everyconversationmatters  What do you think about the concept of "Sea Embassy" as a way to solve the entire autonomous ship issue? Do you think that's a way forward?  Episode 245 is so packed with info and new ideas! A shout-out to us: please drop a line to hello@shippingpodcast.com, and don't forget to subscribe to Alison's brand new podcast  The Shipping Lawyer if you want to hear more from her.  Thanks for listening! 

Mayday! Who is answering your emergency call? In episode 244, we meet Lina Buurstra, a SAR Mission Coordinator at the Joint Rescue Co-ordination Centre. She answers your call when you are in distress, and she knows how to make things right again.  Lina has a background as a Master Mariner before becoming a rescue leader.  We hear about what incidents stuck with Lina, and she also tells the behind-the-scenes story of what happened when the MARCO POLO went aground in Swedish waters last year.  Lina and her colleagues are more than a voice in your worst moment. They are truly professional and have earned our respect and friendship.  Thank you for listening. Any feedback you might have, please send it to hello@shippingpodcast.com #everyconversationmatters      

On a maritime mission in Ukraine  Meet Erik Froste, CEO of Swedish Roadferries, assigned by the European Union Advisory Mission for Civilian Security Sector Reform Ukraine (EUAM Ukraine), to go to Odesa and urgently assess when Ukraine can fulfil the crucial maritime requirements of becoming a member of the European Union.  Erik was on this mission for six months earlier this year, and you must listen to his story about everyday life in Ukraine. He also speaks about the brave people he met and the inspiring sight of ports, bridges, and the Vessel Control Traffic tower being rebuilt, a testament to the resilience and determination of the Ukrainian people.  Please listen to what Erik and I discussed and consider what you can contribute.  Please write to us at hello@shippingpodcast.com with your thoughts. #everyconversationsmatters 

A new way of looking at the workforce in shipping A new way of looking at the people working in our organisations is to take a more human approach to work. Kriss Petersson is the Head of Talent and Culture at Aeler Technologies, not the Head of HR. Listen to Kriss explain how a more people—and culture-oriented mindset can change an entire industry. She strives for diversity of thought and openness when scouting for new employees, but we must become more visible to attract young talent. We also need to listen to what the incoming generation seeks in an employer. Young people are looking for work flexibility, recognition, and professional development. Can we offer them that?  Thank you for listening. Feedback is welcome to hello@shippingpodcast.com  #everyconversationmatters 

Continuous visibility into container whereabouts This episode is sponsored by the Digital Container Shipping Association (DCSA). Learn more about their efforts in shaping the digital future of container shipping at https://www.dcsa.org/  In this episode, we dive into the digital transformation of the container shipping industry with insights from the Digital Container Shipping Association (DCSA).  Kshitij Parashar is the lead of the digital container shipping association's program for cargo visibility. Track & Trace standards are vital to digitalise global trade, according to Kshitij.  If you are interested in the DSCA work or want to share your experiences, please get in touch with Kshitij. He is waiting to hear from you!  Join The eBL Movement. BIMCO, DCSA, FIATA, ICC, and Swift (The FIT Alliance) have launched the “Declaration of the electronic Bill of Lading” as adopting eBLs can help make international trade more efficient, reliable, sustainable, and secure. Thank you for listening. Please send your feedback to hello@shippingpodcast.com  #everyconversationmatters 

Accelerating trade digitalisation This episode is sponsored by the Digital Container Shipping Association (DCSA). Learn more about their efforts in shaping the digital future of container shipping at https://www.dcsa.org/  In this episode, we dive into the digital transformation of the container shipping industry with insights from the Digital Container Shipping Association (DCSA). We discuss the significance of digital standardisation and how it shapes global trade's future. Chris Sunderman, Program Lead Banks at the Digital Container Shipping Association (DCSA), and I discuss the significance of digital standardisation and the efforts to digitise trade for a sustainable and inclusive future. Join The eBL Movement. BIMCO, DCSA, FIATA, ICC, and Swift (The FIT Alliance) have launched the “Declaration of the electronic Bill of Lading” as adopting eBLs can help make international trade more efficient, reliable, sustainable, and secure. Thank you for listening. Please send your feedback to hello@shippingpodcast.com  #everyconversationmatters   

Seafarers - the unsung heroes  Imagine being held hostage onboard a ship, which is your workplace, for seven months! Chirag Bahri is now the International Operations Manager at the International Seafarers' Welfare & Assistance Network, ISWAN, but he knows the feeling and is willing to share. Picture the fear, the willingness to obey, and the uncertainty that permeates the ship. The dynamics of the team, once a cohesive unit, now shift dramatically. How will it all unfold? This is the gripping story of Chirag Bahri's hostage experience.  Listen to Chirag Bahri; he has a story to tell.  This episode is a collaboration between Shipping Podcast and Sailor Today. #everyconversationmatters 

With the mission to make global trade easy for everyone In this episode, I reconnect with Mathijs Slangen, now the Vice President of Sales & Marketing Europe for Flexport, to delve into the transformative power of digitising the supply chain. Key Points: Mathijs Slangen's journey from our past acquaintance to his current role at Flexport. The importance of digitising the supply chain for enhanced efficiency and transparency. Insights into the significance of automation and addressing "dirty data". How Mathijs' perspective offers hope for the future of supply chain management. I'd like to express my heartfelt gratitude to Mathijs Slangen for sharing his invaluable insights. I hope this episode has sparked curiosity and exploration among our listeners as they consider the possibilities of a digitally empowered supply chain. Thank you for listening. #everyconversationmatters             

Shipping Podcast - No conversation available There are too many things to do and too little time. You have 236 previous episodes to listen to, and I hope you can forgive me for not meeting your expectations this week. I haven't had time to record any new conversations.    Until the next time - from me to you, over & out! #everyconversationmatters 

Advice on marketing - how to become an influencer and attract new clients Let's craft compelling content for your business to boost your visibility on LinkedIn. That's Tatiana Lipertis' mission; she knows how to build your brand on LinkedIn. Tatiana is a Content Writer for the maritime industry, and she has 11,000+ followers on that social media platform. In this episode, we discuss how and why the maritime people are not as eager to get involved as other people we know. We also discuss the importance of marketing, communication and employee branding.  Who are we following, who do we think is doing a good job marketing the maritime industry? How can we work together to change the profile of our industry?  Listen to our conversation. #everyconversationmatters We are expecting your shoutout!  Thanks for listening!    

Sustainability is truly about people! Listen to Elisabeth Munck, Head of Sustainability at IKEA Supply Chain Operations. She is passionate about sustainability and has been working on the sustainability agenda in Supply Chain Operations since 2016.  IKEA released their Supply Chain Operations Decarb Catalogue this week. Here is the link if you want to read more.  Elisabeth discusses IWAY– the IKEA way of Responsibly Procuring Products, Services, Materials and Components. It's ten principles for a responsible supply chain in action. You can read more about it here. Elisabeth is looking for innovation in collaboration. Have you seen any unexpected collaborations, or are you considering starting one? Please give us a shout-out, or drop an email at hello@shippingpodcast.com  Thanks for listening! #everyconversationmatters     

The Audience view  The result is in, the audience has spoken. The Shipping Podcast is worth listening to. So say both men and women. The unique selling point is the diverse guests who generously share their knowledge.  There is much more to dive into, and in episode 234, Lena shares the results from the Audience Survey. If you haven't had the time to give your views, you have until March 31st to do so. Here is the link. If you want to support the Shipping Podcast through Patreon, here is the link. Thank you for listening!  #everyconversationmatters 

Safer Seas Act - Coast Guard Policies to Address Sexual Assault and Sexual Harassment Prevention and Response on Vessels Listen to the Marine Log Listen Up Podcast   The maritime industry has acknowledged the problem, and measurements to prevent any harassment and bullying are being discussed by industry bodies. In this episode, we are going to discuss the maritime industry's response to sexual assault and sexual harassment onboard vessels by the Safer Seas Act, which the US Congress passed in December 2022. Sid Lewis, Partner Jones Walker LLP, and Sara Kuebel, Associate in the Jones Walker Maritime Practice Group, explained the new regulations, and I got to ask for more details.  Here is the US Coast Guards Marine Safety Information Bulletin link for easy reference. Here you find the Client Alert from Jones Walker LLP. Thank you for listening! Would love to get your feedback, is this the way forward? #everyconversationmatters 

What is going on with shipping? In episode 232, Sal Mercogliano, a former mariner, a teacher and a Youtuber, is the guest. We talk about the global hotspots and how what is going on there impacts shipping. Sal is passionate about putting today's shipping in a historical context. He started his Youtube channel, What is Going on with Shipping, when EVER GIVEN was stuck in the Suez Canal, and he found it so fun, he got so many people cheering him on, so he decided to take it to the next level.  With more than 180,000 subscribers to his channel, Sal is an influencer in the maritime space. We had an exciting conversation about the Red Sea, the Black Sea, the Suez Canal, and the Panama Canal. We talked about seafarers, mariners, leadership, diversity & inclusion, geopolitics and everything there between.  Hopefully, you will enjoy our conversation as much as we did. Please give us a shoutout on social media, and don't forget to subscribe to both our channels. #everyconversationmatters  Here is a link to the Audience Survey of the Shipping Podcast - you must reply!!  

Floating ports, is that part of a sustainable society? Sea Technology is currently working with the design of a new type of floating container and cruise vessel terminal. Therese Lundquist is the CEO of Sea Technology AB and is the guest in episode 231 of the Shipping Podcast.  Therese is passionate about disruptive, innovative ideas to contribute to the Blue Ocean. She has a marketing and sales background and has now taken over the leadership of this family-owned company, looking into technical solutions for the future.  What is your view on the things Therese is talking about? Is this part of the solution? And, most important, please reply to the Shipping Podcast audience survey!  Thank you for listening and participating in the survey!  #everyconversationmatters     

https://shippingpodcast.com/230-lena-gothberg-host-and-producer-shipping-podcast/Who is in the audience? Hello, Shipping Podcast lovers! I am asking for your opinion. Please reply to the Shipping Podcast Audience Survey. We are closing 2023 and looking forward to the year ahead. In this episode, I sum up a bit of the year and ask my audience to let me know who they are and what they think about the show.  Thank you for listening. #everyconversationmatters 

The race of a lifetime Four adventurous women are preparing for the World's Toughest Row 2024. They will row from Monterey, California, to Hawaii. That takes at least thirty-five days. Listen to my conversation with Cassidy Hurd and Elaina Loveless, how it all came about, how they prepare, and their goal.  Mission: "To be a competitive, energetic, and uplifting team who forms lifelong friendships, embraces the journey and emerges as champions. We strive to ignite a passion in young women, fostering their leadership in STEM fields and conservation. We envision a future where women lead the charge in devising solutions to preserve our oceans. As strong, influential role models, we demonstrate the power of women in sports and the workforce alike. Together, we will fearlessly conquer challenges, and face the waves with Full Foarce!" Charities: Play Like a Girl (PLAG) & Papahanaumokuakea Marine Debris Project (PMDP) Instagram: @iplaylikeagirl Instagram: @pmdphawaii Support Team Full Foarce: GoFundMe: Team Full Foarce - World's Toughest Row 2024  Instagram: @fullfoarce TikTok: @fullfoarce2024 Venmo: @full-foarce Cash App: $fullfoarce2024 I felt very inspired by these young women and I hope you do too. Let's support them!  Thank you for listening! #everyconversationmatters  

Spearheading wind-assisted propulsion WindWings project is a commitment to leading the way towards a zero-carbon future while enhancing vessel efficiency. BAR Technologies believe there is more to be done to harness wind power and push shipping into a greener and more efficient era for the shipping industry. We cannot wait for future newbuildings to help us meet new regulations and CO2 reductions. There is a need also for refitting of the existing fleet. The WindWings installation is part of Berge Bulk's ambition to become carbon neutral by 2025 and lead the world to a zero-carbon future through safe, efficient, and sustainable shipping.  In addition to become carbon neutral, WindWings is a way to show the general public that the maritime industry is changing and is contributing to the solution by taking on the challenges.  What is your view? Do you believe in sails on the current merchant fleet?  Thank you for listening #everyconversationmatters 

How vital is coating for the efficiency of a ship? With more than 14 years of experience in the coating industry, Alexander Enström leads Hempel's Marine Segment as Executive Vice President. In episode 227 we continue the deep dive into hull specifics or as Alexander says "We are in business to protect the assets from corrosion".  Listen to Alexander, go back and listen to episode 222 with Philip Chaabane and episode 226 from the International Antifouling Conference 2023 and you are up to date!  Thank you for listening. #everyconversationmatters 

Hull performance  Shipowners and ship managers are seeking solutions to manage hull performance more effectively. Why is that? It's because they want to make their fleet more sustainable, and they also want to save money. Les effective hull performance > more fuel and more emissions.  Listen to Jennifer Arden, Marketing, Brand & Relations Manager at i-tech and organiser of the International Antifouling Conference in Gothenburg 2023. José Gonzalez, Energy Conservation Manager, Stolt Tankers  Martin Köpke, Sustainability Manager, Hapag-Lloyd Solène Guéré, Open Hull #everyconversationmatters Thank you for listening.

What does the "Fit for 55 in 2030 package" mean for the maritime industry? In episode 225, I had the pleasure of speaking with Vera Tax who is a Member of the European Parliament (MEP) and a member of the Committee on Transport and Tourism. There are so many new proposals now in the pipeline for the maritime industry, and since Vera has been involved in them all, I took the opportunity to ask about them all.  EU Emissions Trading System Fuel infrastructure Renewal Energy Directive European Port Strategy In addition, Vera is a Champion of Equality in the Transport industry, mainly focusing on women in maritime, so we also discussed that.  Hopefully, you have views on our conversation; please send your feedback to hello@shippingpodcast.com Thank you for listening! #everyconversationmatters 

Remote health care How can digital health solutions contribute to good health and wellness at sea? In this episode, I discuss that with the Managing Director of OneHealth by VIKAND, Ronald Spithout.  Ronald held several positions in the maritime industry. Before retiring last year, he was the President of Inmarsat's maritime satellite systems, so connectivity is close to his heart. Combining Ronald's passion for connectivity and the well-being of seafarers has led him to take on a new role as MD of OneHealth.  This episode covers many aspects of connectivity and digital health systems.  Thank you for listening. #everyconversationmatters 

 Industry-standard in the container business Slavia Kristina Jumelet is a Product Owner for Operational Efficiency Standards at the Digital Container Shipping Association (DCSA), which is a neutral, non-profit group founded by major ocean carriers to digitise and standardise container shipping. DCSA member carriers include MSC, Maersk, CMA CGM, Hapag-Lloyd, ONE, Evergreen, Yang Ming, HMM and ZIM.  Slavia Kristina has a very broad background in shipping, even though she started studying mathematics. She worked in dry bulk in Istanbul and ports in Antwerp before her current position, contributing to the transformation of the shipping industry. We cover a lot in this episode, and I hope you like it. #everyconversationmatters      

https://shippingpodcast.com/222-philip-chaabane-ceo-i-tech/Revisiting a Swedish maritime startup, now noted on NASDAQ Antifouling coatings are necessary to protect a ship's hull from attaching marine organisms. Ship owners need marine coating solutions that deliver fouling prevention for vessels with differing activity levels, shipping routes and construction.  Selektope® is a unique biocide that, through biotechnology, creates the possibility of more sustainable and efficient marine paint systems. When attached to a ship's hull, barnacles harm the hydrodynamic drag. The hard shells cause increased friction between the hull and water, directly related to increased fuel consumption and carbon emissions. Listen to Philip Chaabane, the CEO of i-tech, when he describes the journey for this maritime startup. There are so many lessons learned that he shares! #everyconversationmatters 

Smooth Sailing How does the acceptance of digital health solutions in the maritime industry impact the employee well-being of seafarers? That is something two PhD students decided to look into as they were writing their thesis.  Charlotta Herkommer and Sandra Siljevik Laine study Business Administration at the University of Jönköping, Sweden, in the  Digital Business Programme. Nevertheless, they decided to look into the maritime universe to see how digital health solutions could make a difference for seafarers.  Listen to our conversation about their findings after interviewing people working in the maritime industry, both onshore and at sea. You will smile when you hear how engaged these two young women have become in the maritime industry now. They can see themselves entering our world. I love it! Thank you for listening! #everyconversationmatters 

Proactive. Flexible. Resilient. The Baltic Ports Organization's mission is to contribute to economic, social and environmentally sustainable development of maritime transport and the port industry in the Baltic Sea region, thereby strengthening its global competitiveness. Once a year, the Baltic Ports gather for a Conference, and September 6-8, 2023, the Conference will be hosted by the Port of Ystad. In this episode, we meet Mr Bogdan Oldakowski, Secretary General of the Baltic Ports Organization, BPO, and Mr Björn Boström, Managing Director of Port of Ystad and Host of this year's Conference. I asked them about the organisation and what we can expect from this year's Conference.  Next port of call- Ystad!  Thank you for listening. #everyconversationmatters 

Panel discussion in the European Parliament June, 27th 2023, part 2  Episode 219 is the second part of the panel discussion in Brussels organised by Ms Vera Tax, MEP, to raise awareness amongst the maritime community and policymakers about the importance of women and how to improve working conditions in the sector.  The participants have generously given me permission to share with you what we discussed.  You will hear five panellists (besides me) speaking; Ms Line Heimstad, Deputy Head of Agreement, Norwegian Seafarers' Union. Ms Vanessa De Michele, 1st Officer, Costa Cruises Mr David Kerr, Member of the European Commission, working in the Cabinet of the Commissioner for Equality, Helena Dalli. Mr Sotiris Raptis, Secretary General, ECSA, European Community Shipowners' Association. Moderator: Ms Marjolein van Noort, who is the Dutch Shipowners Association's representative in Brussels Thank you for listening. #everyconversationmatters #shipping #maritime

Panel discussion in the European Parliament June, 27th 2023  Ms Vera Tax, MEP European Parliament, organised this panel event to raise awareness amongst the maritime community and policymakers about the importance of women and how to improve working conditions in the sector.  This is a recording of our discussion on June 27 in Brussels. The participants have generously given me permission to share with you what we discussed.  You will hear five panellists (besides me) speaking; Ms Line Heimstad, Deputy Head of Agreement, Norwegian Seafarers' Union. Line is eager to share the Gender Equality Strategy for the Maritime Sector in Norway.  Ms Vanessa De Michele, 1st Officer, Costa Cruises  Mr David Kerr is a Member of the European Commission, working in the Cabinet of the Commissioner for Equality, Helena Dalli.  Mr Sotiris Raptis is the European Community Shipowners' Association's Secretary General, ECSA.  Ms Evina Fotiadou, Policy Advisor at European Community Shipowners' Associations (ECSA) Moderator: Ms Marjolein van Noort, who is the Dutch Shipowners Association's representative in Brussels This is the first half of our discussions, part 2 will be released on the next Shipping Podcast Friday! Thank you for listening. #everyconversationmatters #shipping #maritime

Why is it important with a diverse and inclusive maritime industry?  I was invited to the European Parliament to participate on a panel discussion on Empowering Women in the Maritime industry and the role of the EU, organised by Miss Vera Tax (MEP).  Since you were not there, and I took the time to prepare my interjections, I thought that it would be a good idea to share my thoughts on this topic with you. At a later stage, I might be able to share with you what was said since I have asked for the audio files to be released to me. We cannot withold all the wisdom shared in that room from you.  What is your view on diversity and inclusion? And how can we attract more women and retain them?  Here is the link to the female photographer Nina Varumo and her portfolio.  Thank you for listening. 

All parts in the logistical chain needs to link together  Listen to Emily Babot, Environmental Project Manager, Aeler Technologies, a young engineer and a former sailor. We talk about how rewarding it is to work in the maritime industry since we face many challenges. Emily's passion for the sea made her go for a career in shipping, first as a cadet and then on the engineering side when she decided to go ashore. Today, she works on the smart container and wants to spread the word about the importance of shipping.  Thank you for listening. Every conversation matters. 

The future is digital  Listen to Pacmar, an experienced Singapore-based ship agent who recently embarked on their digital transformation journey with MagicPort's Ship Agency solution. Capt Sitki Kok, the founder,  joins us, and Mr Osman Budak, the Operations Manager for their agency business. Together with Magic Port, we will create dedicated content focused on the digital transformation journeys of these crucial maritime industry players in a series of podcasts. This episode focuses on the Ships Agent. Thank you for listening. I am eager to hear your feedback. Send it to hello@shippingpodcast.com 

There is so much spotlight today on diversity, inclusion and equity What do you stand for? What are your values? What is your purpose? What is your goal? Those are the things the next generation is looking for. They will not choose to work for you if you don't have the answer. Listen to Eman Abdalla, Global Operations Director for Cargill Ocean Transportation, describing what an attractive employer looks like.  Also, this episode is packed with good advice from a modern leader walking the talk and is the change needed in our industry.  Happy belated International Day for Women in Maritime! Thank you for listening. Spread the word! #everyconversationmatters 

In my honest opinion Every conversation matters. That is something that I have realised over the years of producing the Shipping Podcast. We need to talk about the change we want, and we need to speak about what we want to achieve. And we need to listen to people with other viewpoints to understand the pain points and how we can make them less painful.  Where do I find the Stars of the Sea to be guests on the Shipping Podcast? I often get that question, and here I spill the beans. Do you have anything to say after listening to this solo episode? Please drop me a line at hello@shippingpodcast.com Thank you for listening.  

It's all about changing our behaviour and opening-up The maritime industry is facing so many challenges. The only way forward is to change our behaviour and collaborate with others. Listen to Sameer Kalra, President of the Marine Division and Executive Vice President at the Alfa Laval Group. Going from old traditions to a new way of thinking is how you change.  It's interesting to listen to Sameer's insights and that he is willing to share them with the world. After all, he is a leader on a global scale, and Alfa Laval is a 140-year-old industrial provider.  I am so fortunate to have these conversations with so many thought leaders.  It gives me hope.  Please continue the conversation at your kitchen table, and invite some friends since  #everyconversationmatters  Thank you for listening.

What do the young people in our industry think about the future?   Be comfortable to be uncomfortable; it's crucial when working at sea.  The next generation of leaders is singing the same old song; We need to promote working in shipping since hardly anyone knows what it's like. It's the same old Cinderella story. It's time for us to do something about that! Otherwise, the explanations to friends and family will continue for generations. But, unfortunately, we do not have the time for that; we have more enormous challenges!  What can you do to spread the word? Do you want to collaborate? Drop me a line at hello@shippingpodcast.com and let me know. #everyconversationmatters 

What do the young people in our industry think about the future?  Who better to ask than the next generation of shipping? Listen to Jeanna, Alva and Max. They are at the beginning of their careers and are very passionate about the maritime industry. We can learn so much by just listening to what they think.  This exciting conversation continued for a while, so the end product is two episodes, 210 & 211. What do you think? Is there a place for ordinary seamen (OS) in five years? Drop me a line at hello@shippingpodcast.com and let me know your thoughts.  Tune in to the second part of this conversation and make the content a conversation in your workplace. #everyconversationmatters  Thank you for listening!  

Electric hydro foiling vessels trending again Seeing is believing. That is a saying that fits very well with Candela. You need to see this video to understand what we are talking about. Boats flying! It's super cool, and it's a changemaker.  Erik Eklund is the Chief Commercial Officer of Candela. When he talks about his career, it's like it was all building up to his current position. You can hear in his voice how passionate he is. And I cannot wait to go to Stockholm in the autumn to commute on the new boat. System thinking, digitalisation, sensors, problem-solving thinking, visionary and brave. Listen to Erik and give us a shoutout on social media! What do you think? Can the rest of the shipping industry learn from this? I am eagerly waiting for your comments. Thank you for listening #everyconversationmatters 

Parenthood at sea   According to the IMO, 2% of seafarers are women at sea. I wonder what the percentage of Mummies at sea is!? Like 0.01%!!?! Less!!?! A post on LinkedIn sparked my curiosity. Heather Enness, Master Mariner and mother of three, posted the above. Young people I meet in the maritime industry get questions about if they don't want to have a family since they are going to work at sea. I knew I just had to speak with Heather and find out if that is a hurdle nowadays, to be a parent and work at sea. What can we do to make the change?  Listen to Heather and hear her passion for her job, her love for her children and how she is a role model for young people today. Heather wishes that more companies in our industry dared to discuss parenthood at sea. Every conversation matters. Are you able to bring these questions up in your everyday life?  Please drop me a line at hello@shippingpodcast.com and spill your beans. Who knows, I might get more ideas from your feedback. Thanks for listening.