Women Emerging- The Expedition

In this episode of the Leadership Insights I Wish I Had Known at the Start series, Julia speaks with Falak Madhani, a health systems leader working in Pakistan, where she leads research and programmes focused on primary care, mental health, and suicide prevention in low-resource settings. Falak shares two hard-earned insights she wishes she'd known earlier. The first: stepping back as a leader too soon, even with the best intentions, can leave your team without the support and skill set only you can offer. Her second insight explores the complexity of leading with a deep sense of social justice. Falak speaks about the emotional cost of navigating injustice, whether it's systemic inequality, condescension in global health settings, or being overlooked despite expertise. She explains how leaders must balance their moral clarity with strategic patience choosing which fights to pick, and when. Listen to this episode to explore what it means to lead when you're tired, tested, and deeply committed to change. About the Guest: Falak Madhani is a health systems leader who works on the development and evaluation of healthcare approaches geared towards equity and social justice. Falak is passionate about enabling – through working closely with communities, patients, and healthcare providers – the creation of home-grown solutions that can make holistic primary care equitably available in low-resource settings. Falak's research portfolio is focused on primary care, mental healthcare and suicide prevention in Northern Pakistan. She holds an MSc Public Health in Developing Countries (now called the Public Health for Development program) from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine and a liberal arts degree from Bennington College, in Vermont, USA. Falak is also trained in humanistic integrative therapy. As a part of the AKU Brain and Mind Institute, Falak leads the establishment of a Living Labs framework in Northern Pakistan for brain and mind research and programme development. She is concurrently Head of Research at Aga Khan Health Service, Pakistan.

In this episode of the Leadership Insights I Wish I Had Known at the Start series, Julia is joined by Alison Coburn, environment leader at Common Purpose leader with over 30 years of experience guiding teams through complex change, often in some of the world's most challenging settings. Alison shares nine fundamentals she wishes she'd known before she started leading. Starting with this vital truth: don't do it alone, build a support network. From building your own “survival kit” of support and stability, to learning the art of delegation, Alison's insights are thoughtful, honest, and deeply grounded in real-life leadership. She also unpacks hard-won lessons like the need for a “hard streak,” the importance of leading upwards, and why communication isn't just a part of leading; it is the very act of leading. Her reflections reveal how moral courage, containing emotions, and picking the right team members shape a leader's impact far more than any textbook theory. Alison's list will make you pause and ask, “What would be on mine?” Tune in, reflect, and perhaps even start your own list of what you wish you'd known at the start. About the Guest: Alison Coburn is one of the founding team of Common Purpose which started in the UK in 1989 and now has over 130,000 alumni globally. She currently leads Common Purpose's environmental programmes. In 2020 Alison founded Sky Blue, a campaign to support leaders around the world who are tackling the environmental crisis. She is passionate about inspiring and supporting leaders to work collaboratively for a sustainable future. She started her career in the arts, then joined the BBC Radio making programmes on social and environmental issues. She is an Ambassador for the Tutu Foundation UK and a Trustee of Well Grounded.

In this episode of the series - Leadership Insights I Wish I Had Known at the Start, Julia speaks with Amy Brand, a long-time leader in the world of academic publishing. Amy dismantles the illusion that leadership is about charisma or glamour. For her, it's always been about getting the basics right: clear structures, strong boundaries, showing up fully, and being open to constant learning. From navigating emotional labour during a crisis to wrestling with self-doubt in high-stakes roles, Amy's account is raw, reflective, and refreshingly real. If you've ever questioned whether you have the ‘charisma' to lead, listen to this episode to let that myth go. About the Guest: Dr. Amy Brand is a leading publisher, entrepreneur, and executive known for advancing equity in science and expanding access to knowledge, particularly through her transformative leadership at the MIT Press. She has spearheaded initiatives such as open access models, increased representation of women's voices in STEM publishing, and innovative partnerships, including a collaboration with a children's publisher and the launch of Direct to Open. Beyond the Press, Dr. Brand has co-founded the Knowledge Futures Group, served on influential boards, produced the Emmy-nominated Picture a Scientist, and received numerous honors for her positive impact on scientific and scholarly communication.

In the first episode of the Leadership Insights I Wish I Had Known at the Start series, Julia speaks with Aramide Kayode, a 24-year-old educator and founder of a free school in Nigeria. Aramide shares the eight lessons she's learned about leading, starting with the power of believing in people before they believe in themselves. From listening fiercely and celebrating growth, to standing by your mission and helping others find themselves in their work, her insights are grounded, simple, and deeply human. She also speaks about leading in resource-limited settings, where love, safety, and dignity are often as essential as strategy. Her leadership is deeply shaped by the reality of her students' lives and her commitment to making a tangible difference. Listen to this episode to discover crucial insights on leadership - the kind that are rarely found in textbooks but often learned the hard way through lived experience. About the Guest: Aramide Kayode is an education advocate and social entrepreneur committed to transforming the lives of children in low-income communities. She is the Founder and Executive Director of Talent Mine Academy, a free school in Nigeria providing 12 years of high-quality education to underserved children. Aramide's mission is to empower young people as community leaders and changemakers, and her students have already impacted over 5,000 residents through social initiatives. A graduate of Harvard Graduate School of Education and Covenant University, Aramide currently serves as a Youth Representative at UNESCO and sits on the Youth Advisory Board at RIVET. Her work has been featured by Global Citizen, Malala Fund, Harvard Magazine, and more.

In this final episode of the Bridging the Age Gap Series, Julia invited Funmi Adeyemi and Folawe Omikunle, two women are deeply committed to transforming education and equity in Nigeria and they bring distinct generational experiences to this conversation, but with a shared conviction. They speak openly about the quiet tensions that can exist between senior and younger leaders: the hesitation to give feedback, the fear that sets in when one drops the ball, and the 'who's first to shake hands'. But what surfaces just as strongly is mutual trust, and a shared belief that leading can evolve when we reframe hierarchy. “When you're too much about hierarchy and titles, you lose your ability to be creative, to be spontaneous, to be innovative, you know, to be open, to really be your genuine self,” said Folawe. This closing episode invites more open dialogue across generations so that together, we can move towards a new normal of leading. About the Guests: Folawe Omikunle is a social entrepreneur with over 15 years of experience in education, international development, non-profit leadership, and sustainability. A Tutu Fellow and finalist for the Africa Education Medal, she has been recognised as one of Nigeria's most inspiring women. Folawe serves on multiple boards and is deeply committed to unlocking Africa's potential through investments in human capital. Funmi is deeply invested in supporting women and girls to lead with confidence in their communities and across diverse spaces. She is the Expedition Director at Women Emerging, where she leads the global delivery of the Expeditions, and the founder of EquitED– the award-winning initiative working to shift gender norms in Nigerian schools. Her work combines strategy, communication, and community building to inspire bold, inclusive change.

In the second episode of the Bridging the Age Gap series, Julia is joined by Jackie and Emma, two Indigenous women who share the same heritage but stand in different life stages, weaving together ancestral wisdom and contemporary voice. What unfolds is a deeply grounded conversation on reclaiming identity, resisting colonial definitions of mentorship and leadership, and learning to lead in a way that honours both elders and future generations. Jackie shares what it means to carry her Indigenous identity and ancestral knowledge into powerful political and institutional spaces; she calls this a journey “from the outhouse to the White House.” Emma shares how, over time, elders in her community saw leadership potential in her, much before she saw it in herself. Together, they model an intergenerational exchange that is neither hierarchical nor linear, it's circular and rooted in reciprocity, presence, and a reverence for the natural world. “A Birch tree doesn't say to a Cottonwood, ‘you're bigger than me.' They just exist. They coexist. And they each have their own medicine.” – Jackie Tune in to hear how leading, for them, is less about roles and titles and more about holding space, honouring lineage, and being of service to the land and people. About the Guests: Jackie Qatalina Schaeffer, as the Director of Climate Initiatives, she brings over 20 years of experience in communications and business management. She facilitates stakeholder engagement and supports various projects focused on environmental health, climate, and sanitation across Alaska. Jackie served as the Lead Facilitator for the Holistic Approach to Northern Sustainable Communities project and co-authored several regional energy plans in collaboration with the Alaska Energy Authority and local leaders. Her current work includes addressing water security and sanitation for unserved homes in rural Alaska, climate adaptation, community engagement, and integrating Indigenous perspectives to bridge service gaps. Jackie's commitment to serving Indigenous populations allows her to merge culture and Indigenous knowledge with her professional endeavours, creating a powerful blend of Western and Indigenous perspectives. Emma Johnson, a Cowlitz Tribal member, received her BA in Cultural Anthropology from Washington State University Vancouver and her MS in Sociocultural Anthropology at Portland State University (PSU). Emma is currently the Indigenous Traditional Ecological and Cultural Knowledge (ITECK) Coordinator in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences Dean's Office at PSU. In this role, she focuses on community engagement, partnership development, and cultivating a sense of belonging for students. Emma is extremely passionate about place-based education and connecting people to the landscape by introducing them to plant and animal relatives. She feels at home in the world of tribal food sovereignty and strives to support the reclamation and restoration of traditional foodways in Indian Country.

This is the very first episode of the Series – Bridging the Age Gap – where we explore how women from different generations come together to reframe what it means to lead. In this episode, Julia is joined by Mieke Verloo and Mariel Mia Haug, a professor and her former student who connected at a conference on democracy and gender equality in Europe. What began as a formal introduction quickly evolved into a collaborative dynamic grounded in shared roots, values, and feminist ideals. Mia reflects on how she had to shed learned notions of deference and excessive politeness to form a meaningful connection. Mieke, the professor, in turn, shares how intentional presence, deep listening, and care are at the heart of how she holds space and how that is, in itself, a way of leading. They explore how age difference can create assumptions about what each person brings to the table, and how those assumptions can be challenged through honest dialogue and mutual respect. Listen to dive into a conversation between two women at different life stages, choosing curiosity over hierarchy as that's where the magic in leading resides. About The Guests: Mieke Verloo is Professor of Comparative Politics and Inequality Issues at Radboud University in the Netherlands, and Non-Residential Permanent Fellow at the IWM, Institute for Human Sciences in Vienna. She has extensive publications on gender equality policymaking in Europe, on gender mainstreaming and intersectionality, on gendered body politics, gendered knowledge politics, and on opposition to gender equality in Europe. For 2022-2036, she is coordinating the CCINDLE project. Since 2020, she is also chair of the FLAX Foundation Mia Haug is a political science graduate from Estonia with a strong background in student politics. She's also the Operations Manager at Women Emerging. As cofounder and former board member of 020 - a student political party at the University of Amsterdam - she led key initiatives aimed at improving student representation and passed policies that addressed key issues affecting the community. Later, as Chair of LEF, a youth-oriented party in the Netherlands, she worked on radical policy ideas like universal basic income, better access to mental health care, and just climate action.

In this episode, Julia speaks with Dr. Gina Della Togna from Panama and Laurie Cummins from Florida, both explorers from the Women Leading in Nature expedition by Women Emerging in partnership with Re:Wild. They reflect on their journey and share how they instantly connected over trauma as part of their Essence, exploring how it shapes the way we lead. Women Emerging runs group expeditions for up to 24 women who want to find their own approach to leading. They run over 7 months—explorers commit to 5 hours of exploring each month. Each group is formed around a community, geographical or sectoral. Most expeditions are online, though some groups meet at different points. Gina and Laurie discuss how this unique methodology pushed them beyond traditional leadership concepts, encouraging them to look inward and examine the trauma that influences their behaviors and leading. They share how acknowledging and understanding their trauma, whether from major life events or smaller, recurring patterns - has helped them build more authentic, boundary-conscious, and compassionate practices for leading. Through vulnerability, clear communication, and personal growth, they've learned that leading effectively isn't about people-pleasing but about offering support while staying true to their own values. Listen to this episode to step into the expedition with Gina and Laurie and discover how understanding your Essence can help you lead with more honesty and strength.

In this episode, Julia wraps up the Cultural Intelligence series with a powerful conversation with Ukonwa Ojo, founder and CEO of Zaia Ventures. What starts as a meeting of two very different "cores" becomes a deep exploration of how we lead, how we listen, and what it takes to connect across differences. Ukonwa speaks candidly about the concept of Core and Flex, and how finally having language for this idea helped her understand and explain how she moves through the world. She shares that while her core is firmly rooted in her Christian faith, her capacity to flex beyond that allows her to connect across cultures, beliefs, and ideologies with empathy and openness. It's not a contradiction, she says, it's clarity. Julia and Ukonwa dive into the realities of clashing cores: how to stay in conversation when you disagree at a fundamental level, and how to decide when to speak, when to stay silent, and when to walk away. Ukonwa reflects on moments of being misunderstood, being triggered by cultural language, and making space for others. “Everybody doesn't deserve your point of view. But if someone's open, you owe them curiosity,” expresses Ukonwa. Listen to this one to gather how to listen through discomfort, stay present through difference, and hold onto curiosity even when our backs go up. It's a fitting and moving end to a series about what it takes to lead with Cultural Intelligence in a deeply divided world. About the Guest: Ukonwa Ojo is a dynamic leader with 27 years of experience across industries, having held senior roles at Amazon Prime Video & Studios, M.A.C Cosmetics, Coty, COVERGIRL, Unilever, Reckitt, and General Mills. Now Founder/CEO of Zaia Ventures, she builds businesses that uplift underrepresented communities, including Zaia, a global Christian social platform and Ada & Edith, a luxury womenswear brand redefining comfort.

In this episode of the Cultural Intelligence series, Julia speaks with Francesca Cavallo, an author and co-creator of Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls to explore what it truly means to lead in a world where boys and girls are raised on radically different emotional blueprints. From childhood the stories we're told, girls are invited to understand emotions, their own and others'. Boys, on the other hand, are often cast in roles of action and control, with little space given to their emotional lives. This absence, Francesca felt in her own personal sphere and further states that it comes with consequences. When boys grow up into men, many bring into workplaces and relationships a deeply ingrained sense that masculinity must be earned and it can easily be lost. What happens, then, when a woman is leading men raised on this narrow model of masculinity? Francesca brings sharp insight and practical wisdom to this question. She shares how women can navigate moments of resistance, projection, or even emotional overwhelm in male-dominated teams without surrendering authority or compassion. She also challenges the common understanding of misogyny, reframing it not as hatred of women, but as hatred of the feminine qualities men have been taught to reject in themselves. “You don't need to dominate to lead men. But you do need to remember you're in charge,” said Francesca. Listen to this conversation to gain a new lens on cultural intelligence: one that includes gendered storytelling, emotional safety, and the quiet, often invisible pressures shaping how men show up and how women can lead them with clarity, empathy, and strength. About the Speaker: Francesca Cavallo is the co-author of the New York Times bestselling Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls series, which sold over 8 million copies worldwide and was translated into 49 languages. In 2019, she founded Undercats to radically boost diversity in children's media. A year later, she released Doctor Li and the Crown-wearing Virus (translated into 38 languages) to fight Anti-Asian racism. In 2022, she launched Paralympians!, celebrating extraordinary Paralympic champions. A sought-after public speaker, Cavallo champions women's and minorities' rights at conferences around the globe. Her newest project is about masculinity, and it's called Boys of the Future.

In this fifth episode of the Cultural Intelligence series, Julia Middleton pauses to answer the questions you've been sending in. After four episodes unpacking the Core and Flex model and exploring what happens when cultures collide, both between people and within individuals, this episode dives into real-world dilemmas, confusions, and curiosities. “Almost everybody you meet will have a different culture from you,” says Julia. “CQ is about interfacing with cultures that aren't your own. Way beyond just race.” Julia responds to questions such as: • Does your Core ever change? • Can organisations have Core and Flex? • Do you always have to stand up for cultural intolerance? • How do you find your knots, your biases, and what do you do about them? She shares personal stories. Choosing whether or not to cover up in Jeddah. Picking a sari for her son's wedding in Bangalore. Moments that show how her own Core and Flex have evolved. Listen to this episode to reflect on your own Core and Flex, learn why self-awareness is key to leading across cultures and discover how CQ is not about perfection, it is about staying curious, courageous, and committed to growing.

In the fourth episode of the Cultural Intelligence series, Julia Middleton explores what happens when two people meet, and both are in their Core. Through metaphors and real stories, Julia dives into how seemingly aligned values can still lead to tension, and how clashing cores if not carefully navigated can result in misunderstandings, resistance, or even breakdowns in communication. "The stronger your core, the more you need to think carefully before dismissing someone else's," says Julia. She offers practical guidance on how to avoid misreading moments of cultural collision, and how to recognise the difference between disagreement and disrespect. Drawing on her own experience from facing difficult conversations to moments when she chose to stand by her Core at great cost, Julia illustrates how courage, clarity, and the language of Core and Flex can transform confrontation into productive disagreement. The episode also explores what happens when cultures collide within a person. Listen to this episode to understand how to manage cultural collisions between people and within yourself with empathy, strength, and a grounded sense of your core and flex.

In the third episode of the Cultural Intelligence series, Julia explores what happens when different cultures come together. She dives into the tensions, misunderstandings, and moments of growth that emerge when people with different cultures interact and how that shapes their leading. "Sometimes, when cultures collide, we feel it as a clash, but what if we saw it as an opportunity instead?" says Julia. Through real-life stories and thought-provoking insights, she unpacks why these clashes occur, how to navigate them with curiosity rather than frustration, and what leaders can do to turn cultural differences into strengths rather than obstacles. Listen to this episode to discover how embracing cultural collisions can deepen your understanding, strengthen your leading, and help you build more cohesive, high-performing teams.

In this second episode of the Cultural Intelligence series, Julia Middleton, Mother of Practical CQ, founder of Women Emerging and the podcast host dives into the Core and Flex: a simple yet powerful way to understand how Cultural Intelligence works in practice. She explains why women with high Cultural Intelligence to have clarity on what is non-negotiable in their identity (Core) and where they can adapt and evolve (Flex) when crossing cultural boundaries. "The stronger your core, the more people will trust you. And the more flexible your flex, the more people will trust you," said Julia. Julia explains how finding the line between core and flex should keep moving as that is what helps in navigating different generations, sectors, beliefs, specialisms, aspirations and backgrounds while staying true to ourselves. Through personal stories she illustrates the risks of having either an overwhelming core with little adaptability or too much flexibility without a clear identity. Listen to this episode to discover how understanding your Core and Flex can help you lead across cultures, build trust, and navigate complexity with confidence.

In this first episode of the Cultural Intelligence series, Julia Middleton, Mother of Practical CQ, founder of Women Emerging and the podcast host, explains what Cultural Intelligence (CQ) means, why it is essential for leading today, and the foundational mindsets needed to develop it. CQ is often assumed to be just about geography, but as Julia explains, it goes far beyond that, spanning generations, sectors, beliefs, specialisms, backgrounds, and aspirations. "The really big, complex problems that we dream of solving have no respect for boundaries. If we insist on staying within them, we have no hope of addressing these challenges. We must develop cultural intelligence to cross them," said Julia. Julia unpacks four prerequisites for Cultural Intelligence - A deep interest in people, being genuinely curious about others; willingness to unpick personal biases and habits that hinder CQ; the stamina for an endless journey, knowing CQ is something we build over time; the courage to stand up to cultural intolerance when we see it. Listen to this episode to learn why Cultural Intelligence is no longer optional while leading in a global world and how you can start building it.

In the second part of the two-part episode on resilience, Julia and Liz Bloomfield move beyond defining resilience to explore practical, everyday strategies for building and sustaining it. Liz highlights how resilience is about preparation, intentional habits, and the power of community in overcoming challenges. "Resilience really lies within teams and communities. The danger is that when we feel under pressure, our instinct is to withdraw. But the more we isolate ourselves, the harder it becomes to sustain resilience in the long run," said Liz. Liz and Julia discuss the two key pillars of resilience: stories and systems. How the narratives we tell ourselves shape our ability to bounce back, and how daily habits provide a foundation for long-term strength. Liz also shares micro-practices, from reframing overwhelming situations to grounding techniques that help reset and recharge. Listen to this episode to learn how to reframe challenges, build sustainable habits, and take help from teams and communities to strengthen your resilience. About the Guest: Liz Bloomfield is committed to creating a more just world where everyone thrives. During her 25-year career as a British Army officer serving in Iraq, corporate executive, and humanitarian responder, Liz has worked with mission-driven leaders across the globe. She has experienced first-hand the positive outcomes when leaders invest in building their own resilience and mental fitness and support their teams in doing the same. She helps changemakers reconnect with their purpose, supercharge their energy, and increase their impact.

In this first part of the two-part episode on resilience, Julia speaks with Liz Bloomfield, a mission-driven leader and former British Army officer, about what resilience means. Liz challenges the idea that resilience is simply about enduring hardship and instead explores how self-awareness, recovery, and adaptability shape a more sustainable approach to resilience. "Resilience isn't about being unbreakable. It's about learning how to pause, process, and move forward with greater clarity," said Liz. Liz and Julia discuss the importance of mental fitness, understanding personal triggers, and reframing setbacks as opportunities for growth. Liz also shares how leaders who prioritise their own resilience create stronger, more impactful teams. Listen to this episode to challenge your understanding of resilience and explore how small, intentional choices can help you lead with renewed energy and purpose. And stay tuned for Part 2, where Liz dives deeper into how resilience plays out in leadership, the role of identity and belonging, and the practical strategies she uses to help changemakers increase their impact without burning out. About the Guest: Liz Bloomfield is committed to creating a more just world where everyone thrives. During her 25-year career as a British Army officer serving in Iraq, corporate executive, and humanitarian responder, Liz has worked with mission-driven leaders across the globe. She has experienced first-hand the positive outcomes when leaders invest in building their own resilience and mental fitness and support their teams in doing the same. She helps changemakers reconnect with their purpose, supercharge their energy, and increase their impact.

In this episode, Julia speaks with Shurti Singh from India and Myriem Benkirane from Morocco, explorers from the first Women Emerging expedition for students in higher education, as they reflect on their expedition, an experience that reshaped their understanding of leading, identity, and personal growth. Women Emerging runs group expeditions for women who want to find their own approach to leading. Over seven months, explorers commit five hours per month to immersing themselves in the experience; listening to audios, speaking with guides, engaging in deep self-reflection, and coming together for monthly calls to test, challenge, and grow alongside a diverse group of women. Shurti and Myriem share how this unique methodology pushed them beyond traditional leadership concepts, leading them to profound realisations about themselves, their strengths, and the elements shaping their leading. "Essence is represented in both light and shadows before we lead, we must first accept both," said Shurti. "Combining visibility and humility was something I had to work on. I used to think that being visible meant losing humility, but now I see that you can be both—and that being visible can create impact," shared Myriem. Listen to this episode to step into the expedition with Shurti and Myriem and discover how confronting fears, letting go of expectations, and embracing your Essence can transform the way you lead. About the Guests: Myriem Benkirane is a solopreneur specializing in social media marketing, helping businesses and entrepreneurs with strong values create tailored strategies. Born and raised in Casablanca, Morocco, Myriem embraced personal growth after the loss of her dear father in 2017 and her beloved husband in 2021. In 2022, at the age of 30, she returned to studying and is now an Executive Master participant at ESCA Ecole de Management, specializing in Digital Marketing. Passionate about leadership and communication, Myriem strives to set a positive example for her two children and aims to inspire others with her journey of resilience. She is also involved in various associations, including Women Emerging, TEDxESCA, Toastmasters, and Women in Business. Shurti Singh is on a mission to reshape the future of leadership, one authentic conversation at a time. As an MBA student at Universal AI University, she has learned that true leadership flourishes when we embrace both our strengths and vulnerabilities. Through Women Emerging Expedition, she is building bridges between empathy and action, creating spaces where everyone's story matters and collective growth thrives. Shurti believes in transforming challenges into steppingstones for success, because when we lead authentically, we inspire others to do the same. For her, leadership is about more than just personal growth, it's about championing a way of leading that celebrates our whole selves and empowers others to find their voice and purpose.

In this episode, Julia speaks with Dr. Mounia Amrani, a senior medical practitioner, about navigating extreme hostility in war zones and humanitarian crises. Mounia shares her journey of working in isolated conflict areas where violence, suffering, and loss are constant companions, and reflects on the emotional toll of operating in these high-pressure environments. "In hostile environments, the rulebook helps you survive, but humanity is what helps you lead," said Mounia, highlighting the importance of balancing structure with empathy in crisis situations. Mounia recounts the lessons she's learned, from the early days of rigidly following protocols to realizing that true leadership requires authentic connection, even amidst chaos. She discusses how small, human gestures, like listening, asking questions, or even offering a hug can rebuild trust and resilience in the most challenging circumstances. Listen to this episode to learn how compassion, awareness, and authenticity can transform not just leadership, but the lives of those you seek to help. About the Guest: Dr. Mounia Amrani, a medical doctor specialising in pediatrics, holds additional training in international health and tropical medicine from the Tropical Medicine Institute of Antwerp. Currently serving as a Regional Medical Team Leader with MSF Southern Africa, she offers support to operations across Zimbabwe, South Africa, and Mozambique. With over 15 years of experience in the medical humanitarian field, working closely with communities, she is deeply committed to providing access to care for marginalised populations. Originally from Morocco, Algeria, and Belgium, Mounia is now based in Johannesburg. As a mother of twins, she balances her professional life with her personal interests, including gardening and indulging in North African couscous.

In this episode, Julia speaks with Nora Madjar, a researcher and professor specialising in creativity, negotiation, and team dynamics, about the impact of hostile environments on women's leadership styles. Nora explores how environments of resistance and criticism can destabilise women leaders, often leading them to stray from their natural strengths of collaboration, creativity, and empathy. "When women step back, observe, and use their innate skills of collaboration and perspective-taking, they create win-win outcomes that redefine success in even the most challenging environments," said Nora. Nora delves into the unique skills women bring to negotiation, emphasising the power of incremental innovation and soft influence. She shares insights on leveraging flexibility and adaptability, facilitating team contributions, and empowering others to thrive. Listen to this episode to understand how women can translate their essence into action to lead effectively, even when facing resistance and criticism. About the Guest: Nora Madjar is an Associate Dean for Undergraduate Programs at the University of Connecticut School of Business. She received her Ph. D. in Business Administration from the University of Illinois, Champaign-Urbana. She was also a Fulbright Scholar in Bulgaria in 2011. Her main expertise is creativity in the workplace and her research examines the social and contextual factors that stimulate or hinder creative performance and what stimulates creativity in negotiations. Her scholarly work also explores different ways to structure jobs to facilitate creative work and facilitate the creative process. She has multiple articles on creativity published in the Journal of Applied Psychology, Journal of Management and Academy of Management Journal, among others. Professor Madjar teaches courses in organizational behaviour, managing creativity and innovation and negotiations for both undergraduate and MBA students.

In this episode, Julia speaks with Susana Lopez, a seasoned leader in private equity, about navigating one of the most high-pressure and competitive industries. Susana shares her cautionary tales from years in the field, offering insights on the challenges of trust, authenticity, losing sight of the big picture and overcoming fear in hostile environments. "Fear is our worst enemy, but it's also unavoidable. The key is to act despite it, step by step, without letting it paralyse you," said Susana. Susana reflects on the importance of staying true to yourself, avoiding the trap of blending in, and knowing when to observe quietly and when to take decisive action. She candidly discusses how over-relying on allies and internal systems can lead to disappointment and why resilience and self-reliance are critical for success. Listen to this episode to discover how to stay true to your purpose in challenging environments, strike the right balance between patience and action, and build a career defined by resilience, courage, and integrity. About the Guest: Susana Lopez is a private equity professional with nearly 20 years of experience in fund formation, fundraising, and investments in the infrastructure and renewable energy sectors. Passionate about combating climate change, she has led efforts to mobilise private capital at scale for sustainable projects, particularly across Latin America, focussing on innovative blended finance and impact-driven solutions.

In this episode, Julia is joined by Katrien Van den Broeck, author of Confronting the 10 Traps of Power (2024), to discuss the unique challenges women face while leading in politics which is no doubt a highly demanding and hostile environment. Katrien highlights the traps of isolation, perfectionism, and managing team dynamics, offering strategies for women to navigate these pressures effectively. "Isolation is one of the biggest traps of power: it's physical, emotional, and logistical. Leaders must make conscious efforts to stay connected to the real world, or risk losing perspective," Katrien explained. Drawing from her experience coaching politicians and working with high-profile leaders, Katrien shares practical insights for thriving in power. She discusses the importance of maintaining strong personal networks, learning to take calculated risks, and setting clear boundaries in team management to avoid burnout. Katrien also emphasises the need for women to recognise and seize opportunities, while negotiating conditions that align with their goals. Listen to this episode to equip yourself with tools to combat the isolation and perfectionism that often hinder women leaders and learn how to stay connected and thrive in high-pressure environments. About the Guest: Katrien Van den broeck is the author of “Confronting the 10 Traps of Power” (2024), a survival guide for women in politics. She previously worked as communications and campaign lead for Prime Ministers of Belgium, Guy Verhofstadt and Alexander De Croo. In 2017, she started coaching politicians and through her consultancy Bam.boom, she offers digital communication strategies for clients such as the European Commission, Brussels-based embassies, and UN bodies. Katrien is committed to bringing more women into politics. She is a resident trainer at the Alliance of Her, an empowerment program for liberal women in Europe. In 2024, she co-founded ELECTA, a non-partisan women's academy for winning elections, aimed at closing the gender gap in politics. Katrien holds an MA in Modern History, and degrees in Investigative Journalism, Online Diplomacy, and Digital Marketing. She lives in Belgium with her partner, two children, and two stepdaughters.

In the fourth episode of Navigating Hostile Environments, Julia speaks with Jamie Mittelman, founder of Flame Bearers, a platform dedicated to amplifying the voices of women athletes from around the world. Jamie shares her experiences navigating the challenges of leading in a field that has historically underserved women, she highlights the importance of flipping hostility by leading with positivity and empathy. "In a hostile environment, don't mirror the hostility—flip it on its head. Be the opposite, and you'll draw people to you," said Jamie. Jamie recounts inspiring stories from her work with over 250 athletes from 55 countries, highlighting the importance of staying true to your mission despite external pressures. Taking examples of leading from the work of leaders like Becky Sauerbrunn, she illustrates how authenticity and quiet strength can drive change and inspire others. Listen to this episode to be reminded about the importance of abundance mindsets over scarcity mindsets, staying aligned with your core values, and the transformative potential of creating spaces where all voices are valued. About the Guest: Jamie is on a mission to make sure that people of all ages are inspired by women athletes who look and sound like them. A deep believer in the power of stories to change lives, Jamie is deeply committed to elevating as many diverse voices as possible within the world of elite women's sports. Through Flame Bearers, she's worked with over 250 Olympians and Paralympians from 55 countries and received 22 awards for her work in video, podcasting and social media. She holds a Harvard Master of Public Administration (MPA) from Harvard, Master of Business (MBA) from Dartmouth, has a decade of experience in the corporate and nonprofit worlds and an International Studies Major & Gender Studies Minor from Middlebury College. .

In the third episode, Julia is joined by Jill Heinerth, a cave diver, underwater explorer, and filmmaker. Jill dives into her unique experiences navigating literal and metaphorical hostile environments beneath the Earth's surface. She shares how she confronts fear, the strategies she uses to remain calm under pressure, and the critical role of teamwork in life-threatening situations. "Fear is not the enemy; it's my friend. It sharpens my focus and reminds me of the respect I must have for the risks I take," said Jill. Jill emphasises the importance of empowering team members by creating a "charter of communication" and ensuring all voices are heard. She also reframes failure as “discovery learning,” highlighting its essential role in driving progress and innovation. Listen to this episode to find some powerful insights on leading; whether you're leading a team, facing challenges, or diving into the unknown, Jill's experiences will inspire and empower you to reframe success and failure. About the Guest: Jill Heinerth is a Canadian cave diver, underwater explorer, writer, photographer, and filmmaker. She is a veteran with over thirty years of filming, photography, and exploration on projects in submerged caves around the world. She has made TV series, consulted on movies, written several books and is a frequent corporate keynote speaker. Jill is the first Explorer in Residence for the Royal Canadian Geographical Society, a recipient of Canada's prestigious Polar Medal and a Fellow of the International Scuba Divers Hall of Fame. In recognition of her lifetime achievement, Jill was awarded the Sir Christopher Ondaatje Medal for Exploration from the RCGS and the William Beebe Award from the Explorers Club.

In the second episode of the series Navigating Hostile Environments, Julia is joined by Autumn Phillips, a veteran journalist and newspaper editor with over 20 years of experience. Autumn reflects on the challenges of leading in the high-pressure, male-dominated world of newsrooms. She shares how her leadership journey was shaped by the need to prove herself to skeptical teams while navigating the "glass cliff" phenomenon—an environment where women are often given opportunities only in undesirable or failing roles. "By definition, being the editor of a newspaper means you're in a toxic environment whenever you walk into a newsroom. You're not just handed respect; you have to earn it every day," says Autumn. Autumn discusses how she overcame the "man up culture" of her early career and learned to lead authentically by balancing empathy with decisiveness. She highlights the importance of fostering trust, creating spaces for constructive dialogue, and being fully present for her team. Listen to this episode to find learnings for anyone striving to lead with integrity and resilience in environments that test their limits. About the Guest: Autumn Phillips is an Editor for The Post and Courier. With a career spanning leadership roles like Editor in Chief and Executive Editor, she has overseen Pulitzer finalist projects, launched Post and Courier Travel, and raised millions for public service journalism. Recognised as Journalist of the Year by the North American Travel Journalists Association, Autumn combines her passion for storytelling with a love of adventure and community building.

In the first episode of the series Navigating Hostile Environments, Julia is joined by Aaminah Qadir, a human rights lawyer based in Pakistan. Aaminah shares her experiences of working in a male-dominated profession and the systemic resistance faced by women litigators. “They often refer to me as 'baby' in court, not as a romantic gesture, but to belittle me, as if I'm a child who doesn't belong there. It makes me angry, but I've learned to respond firmly and claim my space,” said Aaminah. She recounts her strategies for maintaining resilience, from humour and delegation to finding solace in reading, walks, and even Korean dramas. Aaminah also discusses how her organisation, She-her Pakistan, is creating a supportive environment for vulnerable communities and female professionals, emphasising the importance of fair compensation and gender sensitivity. Listen to this episode to gain powerful insights into the realities of working in patriarchal systems and societies, the need for gender-sensitive legal practices, and the importance of cultivating resilience in the face of systemic inequality. About the Guest: Aaminah Qadir is a human rights advocate and constitutional lawyer based in Pakistan. She is the founder of She-her (pronounced shai-her or city in Urdu) Pakistan, a public interest litigation organisation that is dedicated to providing legal representation to vulnerable communities in the country. Aaminah's work focuses on empowering victims of domestic violence, religious minorities and the trans community through securing their legal rights. She also works to train members of the judiciary in Pakistan on gender sensitivity and on laws that are enacted to protect women. Aaminah also focuses on the intersection of climate and gender justice litigation to highlight the disproportionate impact of climate change on women in the global south -- an extremely under-studied field in Pakistan. She has completed her undergraduate degree in global affairs and history of art at Yale University and has studied law at the University of Cambridge.

In this Christmas Special, which Julia refers to her ‘Christmas Gift' she talks to Prue Leith, celebrated restaurateur, author, and television personality. Prue offers a candid and deeply reflective look into her leadership journey, shaped by honesty, optimism, and persistence. From transforming toxic kitchen cultures to championing better school food systems, she shares the lessons learned from a career defined by creativity and determination. Prue also explores the balance of being both flexible and dogged in leadership, highlighting her relentless five-year campaign to bring sculptures to Trafalgar Square's Fourth Plinth. On her approach to leading, she reflects on the responsibility of channeling Energy “You must have Energy as a leader. You can't just sit still and expect things to happen. You need to galvanize others, inspire them with enthusiasm, and make them believe that the goal is not just possible, but exciting.” This episode dives into Prue's evolving leadership style, the power of persistence, and the nuanced art of fostering talent while respecting individuality. Listen to this episode to gain fresh insights into leadership, creativity, and optimism from a life lived with purpose. About the Guest: Dame Prudence Leith is a renowned South African-born restaurateur, cookery writer, and broadcaster. Best known as a judge on The Great British Bake Off since 2017, she has had a long and influential career in the food industry, from founding the Michelin-starred Leith's restaurant to establishing Leith's School of Food and Wine. An advocate for food education, she has written 12 cookbooks and seven novels, while also chairing initiatives like the School Food Trust. Leith has been involved in various educational and charitable endeavors and is Chancellor of Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh. In 2024, she launched Prue Leith's Cotswold Kitchen, further cementing her legacy as a culinary icon.

In this episode, Julia is joined by Anna & Ayesha to bring closure to the Women Leading Together series. Across the series, certain sub-themes had surfaced, and Julia sought to explore these with Anna and Ayesha, who have co-chaired the Committee on Global Mental Health and International Relations for nearly a decade. Together, they reflected on the foundations of their collaboration, the role of generational differences in leadership, and how they overcame challenges, including "bumpy times," to cultivate a resilient and inspiring partnership. “What came out of the bumpy times, probably because of the bumps, is a much stronger relationship,” reflected Anna. Listen to this finale to discover how shared values, mutual respect and navigating challenges can forge stronger bonds and redefine how women lead together. About the Guest: Anna E. Ordóñez, M.D., M.A.S., is the Director of the Office of Clinical Research (OCR) at the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) in the United States. With over a decade of experience at NIMH, she has held key roles including Director and Deputy Director of OCR, as well as Medical Officer of the NIMH Intramural Child Psychiatry Branch. Previously, she was the Medical Director of the Division of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry at San Francisco General Hospital and Assistant Adjunct Professor at UCSF. Anna is trained as an Adult, Child and Adolescent Psychiatrists and holds a Master of Advanced Studies in Clinical Research with an emphasis on Implementation Science. She has dedicated her career to conducting and overseeing mental health clinical research studies, with a particular interest in global mental health and implementation of evidence based mental health interventions in limited resource settings. Dr Ayesha Mian is the founder and CEO of Synapse, Pakistan Neuroscience Institute. She is the immediate past Chair, Department of Psychiatry (2013-2020), Aga Khan University and the Founding Dean of Students of the Office of Student Experience (2017-2020), AKU. Dr Mian created the first child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship training program in Pakistan. She has been internationally recognised for her work; key awards include the Jeanna Spurlock Award for Diversity and Culture by AACAP, the Laughlin Fellowship by American College of Psychiatrist (ACP), Presidential Award and Outstanding Mentor by AACAP, Robert Fellowship for Inspirational Mentorship (AAP), Fulbright and Jaworski Awards in Educational Leadership by BCM and a Lifetime Achievement Award by the University of Missouri, Department of Psychiatry.

In this episode of the Podcast, Julia is joined by Sophie Kwasny and Francine Hetherington Raveney, who reflect on their experiences working together in leadership roles at the Council of Europe. Their collaboration demonstrates how shared values, trust, and adaptability can redefine traditional leadership models. In theory Sophie heads the team and that makes her Francine's boss, but the duo explains how their complementary approaches to decision-making and their ability to navigate hierarchical systems has redefined leading for them. "It's not just about hierarchy; it's about our collective input and how we achieve things together." said Sophie. Listen to this episode to explore how women working together challenge gender norms and stereotypes, offering a fresh perspective on collaborative leadership while providing practical takeaways for fostering synergy, overcoming biases, and leading with inclusivity. About the Guests: Sophie Kwasny has over 25 years of experience in intergovernmental work, focusing on human rights, data protection, and sport governance. She is the Head of the Sport Division at the Council of Europe and Executive Secretary of the Enlarged Partial Agreement on Sport (EPAS). Her work supports ethical, inclusive, and safe practices in sport through cooperation between public authorities, sports federations, and NGOs. Previously, she led the Data Protection Unit, managing the modernization of Convention 108, a key international framework for privacy and data protection. Sophie holds a master's degree in law from the University of Strasbourg. Francine Hetherington Raveney is an experienced professional with expertise in international consultancy, sport governance, gender equality, and fitness instruction. As Deputy Executive Secretary of the Enlarged Partial Agreement on Sport (EPAS) at the Council of Europe, she leads initiatives focused on diversity, integrity, and human rights in sport. Her career includes roles in film finance, communications, and anti-discrimination advocacy, as well as the development of gender equality strategies for the audiovisual sector. An Oxford graduate and certified Pilates instructor, she integrates her diverse skills to foster growth and well-being in various sectors.

In the third episode of Women Leading Together, Julia speaks with Rema Subramanian and Ritu Verma, whose 14-year bond has transformed their India based investment fund into a globally recognised powerhouse, raising over $200 Mn while building a resilient team and brand. Rema and Ritu share their secret of working together as women leaders: fostering trust, aligning upon core values, and embracing differences to complement each other's strengths. Their collaboration thrives on open communication and a shared focus on organisational goals rather than personal agendas. "You always need pace setters who keep the race moving forward," Rema notes. "It's not about passing the baton but ensuring you're nudging each other forward and staying relaxed about who sets the pace at different times." Explore more such insights in this episode that exemplifies female partnerships that drive results in high-stake environments. About the Guests: Rema Subramanian is a Co-founder and serves as Managing Partner at Ankur Capital. She serves as a Board Member at BigHaat. Prior to Ankur, Rema has three decades of experience in building and scaling operations across various sectors like financial services, education, IT, packaging, etc. in India. She has headed several companies across various sectors, growing many from scratch to large-scale businesses. She has deep domain experience in the education and outsourcing sectors. She brings the unique capabilities of having been an entrepreneur and worked across sectors. She is a management accountant from AICWA, Inter-Company Secretary, and systems manager from ICFAI. Ritu Verma is a Co-Founder and serves as Managing Partner at Ankur Capital. She also serves as Board Member at Daily Dump, BigHaat, String Bio and TESSOL. She has over a decade of investing and operational experience across various sectors. Prior to starting Ankur, Ritu was director at Truven, a boutique advisory company for venture funds looking at investments in India and SE Asia. She covered deal sourcing, due diligence, M&A target identification in renewable energy, health, agriculture, and materials. She also has over 10 yrs of industry experience working across different functional roles product development, supply chain, branding and marketing at Philips and Unilever. Her key focus as an intrapreneur was to take products from the bench to market. Ritu serves on the board of ICAAP (IKP Centre for Advancement of Agriculture), CropIn Technologies Pvt Ltd and PBK Waste Mangement Pvt Ltd. She holds an MBA from INSEAD with a focus on entrepreneurship and venture capital and a Ph.D. in physics from the University of Pennsylvania.

In the second episode of the Women Leading Together series, Julia dives into the competitive world of basketball with Dorothy and Deanna, two remarkable 3X3 referees. They talk about how their partnership thrives on mutual respect, trust, and complementary strengths despite the intense nature of their sport. Dorothy brings a calm and reflective approach, while Deanna embodies direct and assertive approach to leading. Together, they balance their different approaches to managing high-pressure games with precision and poise. They share insights on how to maintain authority, navigate mistakes with grace, and support each other against external attempts to sow division. "On the court, it's me and you against the world," Deanna reflects, highlighting their unity. This episode has actionable advice on teamwork, communication, and overcoming stereotypes about how women lead. Listen to this one to discover how the two referees redefine leading with resilience in a challenging and competitive space. About the Guests: Dorothy Okatch is a FIBA International Referee for both traditional basketball and for 3 x 3 basketball. She got her traditional basketball license in 2014 and her 3x3 license in 2020. Dorothy has officiated various national, regional and international competitions such as the Olympics, World Cups, AfroBasket and the Basketball Africa League. Deanna Jackson is entering her 14th season as a basketball official. She currently officiates in the NCAA Division 1 Women's Basketball. She has worked in multiple conference tournaments and two NCAA tournaments. She also represents the USA as a FIBA 3x3 official and officiated in the 2024 Paris Olympics.

This is the very first episode of the series, Women Leading Together, the one where we explore how women lead as a team in communities, companies or at home across different sectors, geographies and specialisms. In this episode Julia is joined by Iliana Montauk who shares the story of her partnership with Laila Abudahi, detailing how they've harnessed their distinct approach to leading to build a social impact startup. Iliana and Laila approach leadership differently, Iliana focuses on emotional nuance, and Laila on directness and efficiency. Even then they've learned to appreciate each other's strengths. Together, they've faced challenges with resilience, unity and a fierce commitment to their mission. "There have been times when people have tried to divide us, and we're like a fierce lioness when that happens. We are each other's biggest defenders," says Iliana. Tune in to hear how two leaders with contrasting approach to leading work together to drive growth, support their team, and uphold shared values in a demanding geography. About the Guest: Iliana Montauk is the founder of Manara, a social impact startup dedicated to unlocking human potential by upskilling tech talent in emerging markets. With a focus on preparing computer scientists from the Middle East for global opportunities, Iliana has led Manara to achieve remarkable outcomes, including a 71% referral-to-hire rate at Google. Under her leadership, participants have experienced transformative career advancements, such as one individual increasing their salary from $16,000 to $100,000 in just four months, all while working remotely from Palestine. Iliana's commitment to making a difference is further highlighted by her previous accomplishments, including bootstrapping Gaza's first startup accelerator during wartime and managing talent at Upwork, the world's largest talent marketplace. Her determination to create opportunities in challenging environments reflects her vision for a more inclusive and equitable future.

In the final episode of Exploring Continues, Julia speaks with Katya Guryeva, who recently completed a remarkable run across Armenia, from the border of Iran to the border of Georgia. Katya reflects on her transformative year and shares the insights she gained post the first expedition. When asked if she has discovered an eighth Essence beyond Motherness, Sacred, Trauma, Education, Ancestors, Body, and Nature, Katya identifies community perhaps is a strong contender. She recounts her journey from the inception of the project to its successful completion, highlighting the incredible support she received along the way. Through the lens of Energy, Katya discusses the Law of Conservation of Energy, emphasising that Energy cannot be created or destroyed but is instead transferred. This concept is central to her project, prompting her to consider how she can pass on the energy she's received. In her vision of purposeful leadership, she expresses a deep desire to share this Energy with others. This episode urges us to reflect on the importance of community and the ways in which we can nurture and share Energy in our own lives, building connections that uplift and inspire. About the Guest: Katya is an explorer, dreamer, cautious optimist, and recently has started to feel comfortable, also calling herself an ultrarunner after a few years discovering the sport. She was a member of the first Women Emerging expedition last year, and in her day job works on urban climate resilience at C40 Cities. Passionate about gender equity and the power of community to make change, she is also a 2024 Ambassador for Free to Run, an organisation that supports women in conflict areas to develop leadership skills through sport.

In the third episode of Exploring Continues, Julia talks to Ayesha Mian. Ayesha reflects on her experience of leading a diverse group of women during the Pakistan expedition, how her leading has shaped over the last one year and how Body has emerged as part of her Essence recently. On Motherness, she provides us with an insight that might resonate with many (men and women alike) who are building their organisations and looking forward to making it independent of their presence, so that the organisation can thrive without being dependent on the founder. “That's the Motherness in my mind, how am I nurturing a little child that makes them have their own agency and independence, and then they can survive in this own world where I can become obsolete,” she notes. This episode is a deep dive into Ayesha's reflections on the first expedition, leading her own expedition and building her neuroscience institute in Pakistan. Listen to this one to understand how Essence shapes leading. About the Guest: Dr Ayesha Mian is the founder and CEO of Synapse, Pakistan Neuroscience Institute. She is the immediate past Chair, Department of Psychiatry (2013-2020), Aga Khan University and the Founding Dean of Students of the Office of Student Experience (2017-2020), AKU. Dr Mian created the first child and adolescent psychiatry fellowship training program in Pakistan. She has been internationally recognised for her work; key awards include the Jeanna Spurlock Award for Diversity and Culture by AACAP, the Laughlin Fellowship by American College of Psychiatrist (ACP), Presidential Award and Outstanding Mentor by AACAP, Robert Fellowship for Inspirational Mentorship (AAP), Fulbright and Jaworski Awards in Educational Leadership by BCM and a Lifetime Achievement Award by the University of Missouri, Department of Psychiatry.

In the second episode of the series Exploring Continues, Julia is joined by Isata Kabia, who discusses how Motherness as an Essence has manifested in her leadership since the first expedition. She reflects on how what women do while leading is the purest form of Motherness and how women have felt embarrassed about it for so long. She emphasizes that this Essence is what the world needs in all aspects of leadership. “It's not just about care; it's also about being really agile,” she explains. Isata also discusses the idea of ‘connectedness' and how it provides courage, confidence, and a clear sense of purpose. This episode motivates us to dive deeper into our Essence, understand our Elements, and consciously control our Energy as we lead. About the Guest: Isata Kabia is the Founding Director of Voice of Women Africa, an organization focused on empowering women in Sierra Leone. She believes in building a strong community of women who support one another and encourages more women to take part in politics. This, she believes, will lead to better decisions that promote peace, prosperity, and rights for everyone. Isata is also behind AFRiLOSOPHY, a program that started in 2015. It offers training in manufacturing and financial management to help women start and grow their own businesses. She understands that when women are economically strong, they can lead and make a real difference in their communities.

This is the very first episode of our new series, Exploring Continues. This series is both about looking back and forward. Katrina Webb, who was part of the first expedition tells us how her leading has shaped in the last one year and if the 4Es still resonate with her? She passionately discusses the Essence of "Motherness" in leading, declaring, “I have shouted out that I am an incredible leader because of my Motherness.” Katrina shares her excitement about the expedition she is running, which began on October 21, 2024, where she will lead women with disabilities and chronic conditions. She wonders and wishes to explore whether disability emerges as a new Essence in leadership. Listen to this one for an inspiring conversation that bridges personal mastery, resilience and the power of inclusive leading. About the Guest: Katrina Webb is recognised and acknowledged for her success as a Paralympic athlete. She has won gold, silver and bronze medals in athletics at three Paralympic Games. She was the first torch bearer to enter the Stadium for the Opening Ceremony of the Sydney 2000 Paralympic Games and in 2006 Katrina was selected on behalf of the International Paralympic Committee to speak at the United Nations in New York. Off the track Katrina is the Director of Silver 2 Gold High Performance Solutions which specializes in powering organisations, teams and individuals best. Katrina is a global ambassador for the International Paralympic Committee and due to her own experience in dealing with a disability and a deep love of helping others, Katrina is the Founder and Director of Newday Leadership a platform to inspire leadership for the greater good. Katrina Webb is an international speaker, leadership and personal mastery consultant, trainer in Wellbeing and Resilience and a physiotherapist.

This is the final episode in our series on Leading by Faith. Lifelong Alaskan Jackie, born and raised in Kotzebue, shares her unique insights and experiences rooted in rural Alaskan culture. She emphasizes the importance of oral history, reflecting on how her family has inhabited the same land for thousands of years. Jackie explains that this deep connection fosters a mindset that values retention of knowledge over conventional learning methods.For Jackie, sacredness is intertwined with her ancestors, culture, and the disruptive changes her community faces. She discusses how this knowledge and her grounded sense of calm influence her leadership style, which is closely connected to nature, her heritage, and the sense of community. Listen up to discover how she builds teams, draws wisdom from her ancestors, and generates energy in her work.About the Guest:As the Director of Climate Initiatives, Jackie brings over 20 years of experience in communications and business management. She facilitates stakeholder engagement and supports various projects focused on environmental health, climate, and sanitation across Alaska. Jackie served as the Lead Facilitator for the Holistic Approach to Northern Sustainable Communities project and co-authored several regional energy plans in collaboration with the Alaska Energy Authority and local leaders. Her current work includes addressing water security and sanitation for unserved homes in rural Alaska, climate adaptation, community engagement, and integrating Indigenous perspectives to bridge service gaps.Jackie's commitment to serving Indigenous populations allows her to merge culture and Indigenous knowledge with her professional endeavours, creating a powerful blend of Western and Indigenous perspectives.

In this episode, Sara speaks to Julia about how Islam has shaped her leading. Sara explains that she trusts Allah has mapped out her journey. At first, she was upset about giving up her dream of being a basketball player, but she soon discovered that pursuing the sport as a referee brought her new and bigger opportunities like the World Cup and the Olympics. While that's true, she emphasises that hard work is essential; one must give their 100% to whatever they do and never underestimate yourself. "You don't know what will happen to you, you never know who is watching you...you never know what opportunities will come to you," is what Islam teaches her and she transfers the same lesson to her juniors. She also talks about how Islam guides her to treat everyone equally and share her learnings and experiences with her juniors, peers and community, so that when she grows, her community grows with her. Sara's leads with positivity and believes that talking to people nicely will always make them respect her even if they fail to like her for whatsoever reason. About the GuestSara Gamal Elsharnouby is from Egypt. She graduated from Alexandria University as a Civil Engineer and is currently an International Basketball referee since 2016. She has refereed in many international competitions such as Tokyo Olympics (2020), FIBA Women World Cup Australia (2022) and many junior men and women World Cups. An inspiring fact about her: Sarah Gamal was the first Arab and African woman to referee 3-on-3 basketball games at the Tokyo Olympics (2020).

In this episode, Florence speaks to Julia about how Christianity has shaped her leading. She speaks of leading from the middle. Her task, as a leader, she believes, is to lift up the people around her and facilitate their growth, and not for her to be the centre of attention. Florence shares with us the concept of grace and how she leads with it. As a woman leading, she has often been met with opposition and resistance. In moments like these instead of confronting those who resist because of prejudice, she chooses to take a step back. In her experience, when one pushes back and forces a space for themselves, the animosity that is harboured never allows for lasting change. Instead, by steeping back she has seen that people will come to the realisation and understanding that change will be lasting. The patience to wait for this change is allowanced by grace. Florence's leading combines being gentle and firm. It is a leading that is patient. About the GuestDr. Florence Muindi is the Founder President of Life in Abundance (LIA) International, a faith based non-profit headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya and comprised of work in 12 countries in Africa, 2 in the Caribbean, support offices in the US, UK and Europe, Blue Wings (an aviation company) and the LIA Global Institute. A medical doctor specialized in public health who has led LIA for 30 years. Her efforts were recognized and awarded with a Honorary Doctorate of Humane Letters, conferred by the distinguished Daystar University where she now serves as their Chancellor. She is married to Dr. Festus Muindi, is a mother of three adult children, a grandmother, an author and an ordained minister. She regularly speaks on international forums and serves on several International Ministry Boards. She lives in Kenya and travels frequently internationally for work.

In this Episode Julia is joined by Maria for whom Mysticism has served as a connection and curiosity to know oneself as deeply as one desires to connect those those are you, nature and and something that is bigger than all. Her mystic journey has guided her leading. When she worked as a politician, she would conduct a meditation session every friday, creating a space that attempted to dissolve hierarchy, encouraging listening and empathy and genuine connection. Each session was followed by feasting and passionate, open discussions on topics brought by the group. This weekly exercise is one of the many learnings she shares, as she unpack the power of seeing beauty in the world, actively being present and seeking meaningful connection so as to lead better and more authentically.About the guest:Maria Eugenia estenssoro is an Argentine journalist, politician and social entrepreneur, who believes women can have a meaningful public career and a loving personal life. She was a prestigious Senator and legislator and prior to that she co-founded and lead Endeavor Argentina, IWF Argentina and Equidad, an NGO that promotes digital and social inclusion. She is the author of two books “Aregntina Innovadora” and “Laboratorio Uruguay”, published by Random House.She is mother of three and has a long lasting relationship with her partner of 27 years.

In the second episode of our series on Leading inspired by Faith, we are joined by Isabel who was born into a christian family and for whom the teaching of Jesus Christ resonated deeply from a young age. She shares with Julia why she loves leading from the back and how her faith taught her that. She has learnt the importance of showing up no matter what and the importance of mentoring the next generation of leaders. As a leader, sometimes tough love is what is needed, and this too is something she elarnt at church. At the heart of her leading is a desire and belief of diversity and inclusion and she argues that it is in fact her faith that has taught her to be this way and love all for who they are. In difficult times she prays, a personal practice she does alone, seeking guidance to do the right thing. About the guest:Isabel Kumwembe is Special project manager at alx africa, and organisation on a mission to identify, develop and equip Africa's next 3 million leaders. She is also the founder of Amazon Women's Football Club.

This is the first Episode in our series new series on Leading Inspired by Faith. Tracey, an accidental buddhist as she describes herself and an accomplished squash player shares with us how long before she was exposed to buddhism, she was practicing the principles of buddhism. She shares how it has given her a moral compass that has helped her in her leading. There is not god in Buddhism and so it requires one to deeply reflect and introspect. Qualities, Tracey believes are helpful to a leader too. Both squash and buddhism taught her the importance of being present and cultivating focusTracey's faith has allowed to to balance and navigate difficult situations both professionally and personally with peers, clients and teams with kindness and honesty. For example, it is not enough that you do the right thing when people are looking, but do you have the ability to stand up for what is right even when someone is not watching you? How can you live and lead in a manner that allows you to see from many different perspective? About the Guest:Tracey Woon has had over 35 years of experience of working in investment banking experience and has worked on corporate finance and is currently 'journeying' in her next chapter.

We are revisiting the series on how young women deal with being patronised for a special episode where Julia is joined by Selin, a young activist whose went viral for sharing her experience of being patronised at a global forum. She was invited to speak for 3 minutes. Her 3 minutes were measured, rehearsed, screened, and approved. Inch by inch the organisers ate into her 3 minutes. It started with the content, and then they asked her to shorted the duration. When Selin decided to take her 3 minutes as promised and stand her ground, her mike was turned off. Shortly after this she was interviewed, and her candid interview went viral. While young people are invited to have a seat at the table, it is often to serve a visual. They still struggle for their voices to be heard. Selin shares with us what this kind of partonising does to young people, how it creates a sense of doubt. She speaks of the power of venting but the dilemma of that moment living on the internet for enternity in the age of social media. How do you make your voice heard as a young person? How does one navigate being silenced in a public forum? Where do you derive your inner strength from to keep going?About the Guest: Selin Ozunaldim is a global gender equality activist from Istanbul, Turkey, serving as a National Gender Youth Activist, representing Turkey worldwide for UN Women and advocating for the HeForShe initiative of UN Women. She is a member of the editorial team for the YOUth Newsletter published by UN Women. Selin is a member of the Global Feminist Coalition for Gender Transformative Education, hosted by UNGEI in collaboration with Unicef. She also holds the role of Ambassador for WAVE Organization, co-funded by the European Union. Selin holds a position on the Gen Z Advisory Board of Fast Company Turkey and is a Board Member at Être Girls, a mentorship organization designed to empower young girls by connecting them with accomplished female leaders from diverse sectors.

For many young people, arriving at a point where they want to embrace leading, the verb wholeheartedly, with open arms is often a challenge. In this episode, Meenakshi Arundhati, Editor and Production coordinator of the Women Emerging Podcast is looking back at has 9 clips from 9 episodes this year, that helped her grow into her own leading. It is an episode that attempts to stitch together the voices of women from varied life and leading experiences, as they share what has helped them lead, and learning to claim the verb leading, making is their own.This episode is Meena's farewell to her time at Women Emerging as she moves back to the studio to pursue her love for acting.The following episodes are featured in order of appearance:121. Find the bathroom with Chmba Ellen Chilemba108. How to Release Energy with Valérie Lucq106. How to Lead Disruptors with Veerle Simoens123. How Trauma Shapes Leading with Chadia El Meouchi125. How Energy Unblocks Leading with Puri Canals102. How to Build a Fluid Team with Jeta Bejtullahu107. How to Delegate with Katy Barrow-Grint98. How to Reverse a Decision with Stefanie McCollum117. Insights from the Pakistan expedition with Simi Kamal

This is the last episode in your 4Es Series and we are joined by Anna-Lena who is a journalist, and co-founded HateAid, a non-profit organisation that advocates for human rights in the digital space. At a time when women are disproportionately attacked online, especially those leading, Anna-Lena and Julia discuss how digital violence targets our Essence. Essence is what makes us who we are, and specifically makes us lead the way we do. When one is targeted and pieces of our essence are picked at, what does that do one sense of sense and one's leading? What is it about being torn down in the virtual space that make it so painful? Is it even possible to prevent it? What does one do when targeted brutally? How do you recover?About the Guest:Anna-Lena von Hodenberg is a professional journalist, having worked, among others, for media companies RTL and NDR. In 2018, she founded HateAid together with Campact e. V., Fearless Democracy e. V. as well as a lawyer committed to combatting right-wing violence. The non-profit organisation advocates for human rights in the digital space. Its goal: to make the internet a positive space where democratic values apply for everyone. HateAid is a non-profit organisation that promotes human rights in digital space and stands up against digital violence and its consequences at both social and political levels.

In the fourth episode of the 4 Es series, Julia is joined by Sunita, whose experience spans across continents in the field of renewable energy. Leading in different contexts has taught her how to combine seemingly opposite ideas and the one she holds closest is her ability to balance humility with assertiveness. Every new context offers and opportunity to unlearn and re-learn, she say, for the pace, the language and the mode of working may change. This is where humility is necessary. At the same time, it is important to be confident and assertive when it comes to your subject matter. Sunita offers a range of tools and phrases she keeps handy when working with the various kinds of energy one encounters when leading a team. How can you learn to be empathetic but also have clear boundaries? How do you learn to run a successful and healthy team in vastly different context?About the Guest: Sunita Dubey is the Country Representative for the GEAPP in Vietnam and leads battery energy storage system work in the region. She has 25+ years of combined experience in the energy sector in South Asia, Southeast Asia, and Africa. She has double master's in environmental science and energy policy and is a Chevening fellow.

In this episode of the woman emerging podcast, Julia is Joined by Puri, a scientist, whose deep love for nature has shaped the way she leads. As Puri sees it, in nature and leading, the system will fuction so long as Energy is allowed to flow freely. The moment there is a blockage in the flow of Energy, a problem arises. As human beings, we seem to be of the opinion that we must compete in this world to get ahead, however Puri makes a pointed observation that most of what plays out in nature is an act of collaboration not competition as we have been made to believe. To lead, is not about being the best at everything, instead it is about being good enough. And, what one needs to cultivate is the ability to bring people together and hold them. How do you continue to stay curious as a leader? Why is it important? How does one learn to unblock energy and facilitate collaboration? How do we redefine and measure success that values collaboration and not competition?About the Guest: Purificació Canals has a BSc and a PhD in Biological Sciences from Barcelona University and works on marine and coastal conservation. She's deeply involved in connecting people around the world to protect the ocean; first as President of MedPAN (2009-2024) and currently, as coordinator of the Global Network of MPA Manager Networks (The Ocean Foundation & Blue Nature Alliance). She's also the Institutional Relations Director at Underwater Gardens International S.L. a company focused on marine restoration.

In this episode Julia talks to Karvika, a tech entrepreneur and leader based in Nepal. Karvika shares her journey of leading and how embracing motherness not just in the home but also at work redefined the way she leads. It taught her how to balance being nurturing and fierce. It is when she embraced this piece of her Essence that she found her authentic self and discovered what truly drives her - to nurture the next generation of young women in tech, specifically in her home country, Nepal. As she leads her team, guided by her motherness, she also feels a sense of motherness towards her country. She hopes she and her team will be able to put Nepal on the map in the world of tech. None of this is easy. In tough times, she turn to her ancestors, the women in her life, her grandmother in particular, and how she is inspired by how even with few resources, these women never failed to generate energy and mobilise people. SWhere do you turn to in tough times, when you are in unfamiliar terrain? Have you discovered which piece of your Essence you hold closest to your heart?About the Guest: An entrepreneur and tech leader with a Master's degree from the US, Karvika has international experience in education, healthcare, retail, and government sectors. She founded Kimbu Tech in Nepal to boost women's participation in tech and create local jobs while promoting Nepali products and services globally. She is also the chairperson of Simjung, a BPO serving clients from around the world and the Director of V.S. International College, aiming to enhance the quality of tech resources. Additionally, she also runs the "Women in Tech" Facebook group.

This episode marks the beginning of a new series about a concept that is central to the Women Emerging Expeditions - The Four Es - Essence, Elements, Expression and Energy. Each week we will be joined by one Woman reflecting on their life in leading through the lens of this concept.Julia is joined by Chadia who generously shares her journey beginning with her Childhood in Lebanon, where the war resulted in her being shipped off to boarding school in the UK, a place she did not know the language and was far way from all things familiar. She talks about the lesson of adaptability and resilience she learnt early on. She speaks of the need to lead with flexibility and empathy as most people are fighting agaist a number of challeges that are beyond their control, such as economic collapse, a pandemic and and absent State. Growing up, being exposed to both eastern and western traditions, she says, has allowed her to be able to see different perspectives and has enabled her to act as a bridge between different kinds of people, ideas and perspectives. Chadia emphasises on the need to learn how to find a middle ground and meet people half way. To do so she shares some of the tools she uses, such as stepping into the shoes of someone on the opposite side, or learning to wear different masks to make the people around you comfortable and easier for them to relate to you, allowing for effective leading. But how does one remain authentic? How does one balance empathy and yet ensure goals and deliverable are met? What does it mean to find a middle ground and yet not compromise on what you believe in? About the guest: Chadia El Meouchi is Managing Partner at Badri and Salim El Meouchi Law Firm. She is a dedicated and passionate business and transactional lawyer, managing partner, entrepreneur, and community activist with a proven track record of excellence in Middle East and beyond. She is also a board member in various international and regional companies and NGOs.

This week Julia is joined by Shulammite, whose unwavering self belief is refreshing. In this episode, Shulammite weaves together the lessons shared by Sophie, Priya and Chmba. She reminds us that it is important to get the narrative straight in our heads for ourselves - you don't have to fit in and you mustn't buy into the narrative those who patronise are pushing on to you. To truly believe in your abilities and reinforce that belief will give you the strength to fight the good fight in the long run. In the final episode of this series of how young people deal with being patronised, we are reminded loud and clear that the fire that burns within Sophie, Priya, Chmba, and Shulammite is here to stay and it is an invitation for us to get on board and join in!About the Guest: Shulammite Ajayi is an award winning STEM Teacher, Public Speaker, and Fashion Entrepreneur. She is a Teach For Nigeria Alumnus and is the Founder of Vocational Stars Founder.

In the third episode of our series on how young people deal with being patronised, Julia is joined by Chmba. Last week Priya left us with a question for Chmba - How do you deal with being patronised when it happens in the moment, in public on the big stage - as it often does when you are the 'young' expert at a global summit. Chmba's first piece of advise was to know where the bathroom is whenever you enter a new unfamiliar space so that you know where to go when you need a moment alone. Here, you can talk to yourself and be your own source of encouragement to get you through the day. She talks of learning to cultivate a deep sense of empathy towards oneself, reminding us that often when patronised in those spaces it feel like a punch in the gut that somehow materialised out of nowhere. Like Sophie she is brutally aware the fact that perhaps one needs to expect being patronised and so she shares her own practice of having responses ready, so that when the punch hits, you have ready. When the punch in your gut lands, how do you learn to pick yourself up in the moment? How do you learn to hold space for yourself when you are exposed and vulnerable in an unfamiliar space? About the Guest: Chmba Ellen Chilemba, a Malawian a community organizer, activist singer-songwriter, DJ and producer-artist from Malawi.