Podcasts about chief executives

In this episode, Malisha Patel, Senior Vice President and Chief Executive Officer of Memorial Hermann Southwest and Sugar Land Hospitals, joins the podcast to discuss how major industry changes are reshaping healthcare delivery. She shares strategies for optimizing workflow, adapting to evolving federal and state policy shifts, and establishing an AI governance council to guide responsible innovation. She also outlines how her organization is navigating the transition to value-based care while maintaining operational excellence.

Wellington has had a tough ten days, the capital got hit with one of its strongest storms in decades, causing damage and power outages. And then there was the sewage leak at Moa Point which made the city's southern beaches un-usable. Some good news there though as about an hour ago, Wellington Mayor Andrew Little announced the coast is open and swimmers are welcome to go back in the water, but at their own risk. Back on land, one of the places still dealing with the fallout from the storm is Zealandia, the 225 hectare ecosanctuary in Karori. Staff and volunteers are busy at work to bring the place back to its former glory, Jesse is joined by Dr Daniella Shanahan, the Chief Executive at Zealandia.

Rising input costs. Supply chain uncertainty. Tightening environmental regulation. Increasing sustainability criteria in tenders. For many Longford SMEs, these pressures feel like added burdens. But what if the same pressures could become a competitive edge? Circular Advantage is a practical, results-focused event designed to show Longford SMEs how circular economy practices can directly improve profitability, reduce risk and unlock new growth opportunities. Taking place during Enterprise Week and hosted by award-winning broadcaster Ella McSweeney, the Circular Advantage event will take place on Tuesday, 3 March from 10am-12.30pm in Longford Golf Club. This event moves beyond theory to focus on what business owners care about most: cost control, contract wins and long-term resilience. What's in it for SMEs? Attendees will leave with clear, actionable insights on how to: — Reduce material and waste costs and improve operational efficiency — Strengthen supply chain security by reducing reliance on volatile inputs — Win more public and private sector contracts by meeting evolving sustainability and procurement requirements — Avoid compliance risks and future penalties by staying ahead of emerging Irish and EU legislation — Unlock new revenue streams through reuse, repair, service models and smarter product design — Improve access to green finance and ESG-aligned funding — Enhance brand reputation and customer trust — Build a more resilient, future-proof business model This is not about adding cost. It is about designing waste and inefficiency out of your business. Expert Guidance, Local Relevance The event features practical insights from industry leaders: — Valentina Tarasco, Assessment & Metrics Lead with the Circular Economy Team at Irish Manufacturing Research, will break down the current policy landscape and explain how circular practices deliver measurable financial and environmental returns. — John O'Shanahan of LeanBPI will demonstrate how Longford LEO's Lean for Business and Digital for Business programmes can act as immediate, low-risk entry points to improving cost efficiency and embedding circular thinking. — Tim Murphy of Circular Economy Company will share a real-world case study showing how reducing waste to landfill translated into tangible cost savings for a local business. The event concludes with a panel discussion hosted by Ella McSweeney, focused on practical implementation and the funding supports available to help SMEs take the next step. Cathaoirleach of Longford County Council, Cllr Garry Murtagh, said, "Longford businesses are as capable as any in Ireland of leading the shift to a more resource-efficient economy. Events like Circular Advantage show our SMEs that sustainability is not an added burden — it is a sharper way to run a business, win more work and reduce exposure to cost shocks. I would encourage every business owner and manager in the county to take their place at this event." Chief Executive of Longford County Council, Paddy Mahon, said, "Small businesses in Longford are already living with the effects of higher input costs and more demanding procurement requirements. Circular Advantage gives them a direct route to addressing both — not through theory, but through practical tools they can use in their businesses. Supporting our SME base to be leaner, more competitive and better placed to win contracts is a most welcome investment from the Just Transition Fund." A Strategic Opportunity for Longford The Circular Economy Project, Circular Advantage, is co-funded by the Government of Ireland and the European Union through the EU Just Transition Fund. The project aims to position Longford as a leading region in Ireland's shift toward a more resource-efficient and competitive economy. For SME owners and managers asking how to protect margins while staying ahead of regulatory and procurement demands, this event provides both the strategic clarity and practical tools to act now. Places are limited...

Antarctica New Zealand is on the hunt for 40 people - everything from medics to chefs - willing to brave sub-zero temperatures and work in one of the most remote places on Earth. Professor Jordy Hendrikx, Chief Executive and Chief Scientific Advisor for Antarctica New Zealand spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.

The new ARC Hub for HealthTech, a multimillion-euro Government investment to drive regional development by accelerating the commercialisation of cutting-edge, patient-focused research, has been officially launched at University of Galway. Focused on developing solutions to improve chronic disease management, the aim of the ARC Hub for HealthTech is to fast-track high-potential technologies in areas such as smart implants, advanced wearable medical devices, novel sensors and AI and machine learning-driven modelling. Hosted by University of Galway, in partnership with Atlantic Technological University (ATU) and RCSI University of Medicine and Health Sciences, the initiative forms part of Research Ireland's flagship Accelerating Research to Commercialisation (ARC) programme. Twenty-three projects are currently in the ARC Hub for HealthTech after being selected for their strong potential to improve patient outcomes. The launch of the ARC Hub for HealthTech – under the theme of 'Regional Roots. Global Presence' – included a showcase of some of the current projects which are being fast-tracked to commercialisation, including advanced sensory detection devices to prevent falls in elderly people and intelligent devices to help control blood pressure. Minister for Further and Higher Education, Research, Innovation and Science, James Lawless, T.D., said: "The ARC Hub for HealthTech has the potential to deliver game-changing acceleration of research commercialisation that will directly benefit individuals and communities in the West and North-West and further afield. As it continues to ramp up its operations and establish partnerships, the ARC Hub's ambitions are clear and far-reaching. I look forward to seeing the Hub progress in its endeavours, outputs and impact over the coming years." Dr Diarmuid O'Brien, Chief Executive of Taighde Éireann-Research Ireland, said: "The ARC Hub programme is one of the most proactive, imaginative and potentially disruptive programmes ever delivered by Research Ireland. Bringing together our leading researchers, entrepreneurs, investors and industry to create an environment where our best research ideas can be translated from the lab to the market represents an inclusive and scalable model for creating companies of the future." Peter Power, Head of the European Commission Representation in Ireland, said: "The ARC Hub for Health Technology is an operation of strategic importance under the European Regional Development Fund programme for the Northern and Western region. It aligns with the objective of EU Cohesion policy to support thriving innovation ecosystems for all regions. Thanks to the ARC Hub for Health Technology research will be translated into marketable products, thereby boosting the competitiveness of both the Northern and Western region and European competitiveness.'' President of University of Galway, Professor David Burn, said: "Today we are announcing more than a research and innovation entity – the ARC Hub for HealthTech is a remarkable opportunity to create a global powerhouse for healthcare in the Northern and Western regions of Ireland. With our partners and regional collaboration, we are seizing the moment to push the commercial impact of research with new supports, at a faster pace, with the overarching aim of bringing new healthcare, treatments and therapies to patients." President of Atlantic Technological University, Professor Orla Flynn, said: "ATU is delighted to be involved in the ARC Hub for HealthTech, working with our partners to advance healthtech research and innovation. Through this collaboration, we are supporting the development of new technologies, strengthening research and creating clearer pathways for bringing scientific discovery into real-world healthcare solutions. I wish the team every success in these endeavours, and to thank the funders for their support." Professor Cathal Kelly, Vice Chancellor of RCSI, said: "Improving patient outcomes must always be at th...

Irish author Marian Keyes has sold over 30 million copies of her books worldwide over the past three decades. From her 1995 debut Watermelon to Rachel's Holiday and last year's 'menopause romance' My Favourite Mistake, she's championed telling ordinary women's stories in all their glory, with plenty of humour thrown in. Now some of her most-loved books and characters have been adapted into a TV series called The Walsh Sisters which has just debuted on BBC One and BBC iPlayer. Marian and the show's co-creator Stefanie Preissner talk to presenter Nuala McGovern about bringing Rachel and her sisters to life on screen. As the Government prepares to unveil its plans for a major overhaul of the SEND system, we hear from BBC Political Correspondent Alex Forsyth on what's been said so far and what's expected. The government has said it will spend billions to make English mainstream schools more inclusive for pupils with special educational needs and disabilities, with Sir Keir Starmer saying that the experience of his late brother, who had learning disabilities, makes him "determined to change Britain so that it is truly built for all." The number of people with education, health and care plans (EHCPs) up to the age of 25 in England has doubled in a decade. Student midwives have contacted us to say many of them are struggling to find jobs despite a serious shortage of midwives in the NHS. A new survey from the Royal College of Midwives echoes that finding. It says 31% of those newly qualified midwifes are still not employed in the role and the majority of those who have found employment are on fixed term contracts. This comes a year after the government announced it's Graduate Guarantee pledging that every newly qualified nurse and midwife in England would have the opportunity to apply to join the NHS workforce. We hear from Safia, who is in her final year of midwifery training, and Gill Walton, Chief Executive of the Royal College of Midwives. Award-winning British Nigerian fashion designer Tolu Coker joins Nuala in the studio fresh from kicking off London Fashion Week with King Charles in the front row. Her latest collection, Survivor's Remorse, is inspired by grief, nostalgia and childhood memories and is a joyful celebration of growing up in 1990s London and the community that shaped her. Presenter: Nuala McGovern Producer: Sarah Jane Griffiths

In this episode, Heitham Hassoun, MD, Chief Executive for International at Cedars-Sinai in Los Angeles, shares how the organization is building a global care network that blends medical travel, local clinics, and long term partnerships. He discusses continuity of care, international strategy, workforce challenges, and what it takes to deliver Cedars-Sinai quality across diverse global markets.

Student Job Search has seen thousands more applications than it has vacancies on offer. In January it had just 4,600 jobs listed but 38,000 applications for positions. The nature of the work has also changed drastically, with very few permanent positions on offer. Chief Executive of Student Job Search, Louise Saviker spoke to Lisa Owen.

The British Museum has removed the word “Palestine” from some of its displays, saying the term was used inaccurately and is no longer historically neutral. Maps and information panels in the museum’s ancient Middle East galleries had referred to the eastern Mediterranean coast as Palestine, with some people described as being “of Palestinian descent”. The decision came after concerns were raised by UK Lawyers for Israel. KAn's Mark Weiss spoke with the Chief Executive of the organization, Johnathan Turner. (Photo: Reuters)See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Nine local states of emergency have been declared so far in 2026, that's already more than were declared in all of 2025 and 2024. Repeated weather events and wider concerns about climate change can all add up to a lot of stress and anxiety. Shaun Robinson, Chief Executive of the Mental Health Foundation spoke to Corin Dann.

In this episode, Ty Wang, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer at Angle Health, shares how his team is rethinking health plan infrastructure to move beyond transactional payer provider relationships. He discusses modernizing operations with AI, improving transparency for employers and brokers, and aligning incentives around outcomes, affordability, and member experience.

Chatting with Chief Executive Officer(CEO) at LOAD, Vice President at COMMON Europe, Owner at Built on Power- Torbjörn Appehl From Stockholm, Stockholm County, Sweden- Torbjörn Appehl Chief Executive Officer(CEO) at LOAD, Vice President at COMMON Europe, Owner at Built on Power- Torbjörn Appehl From Stockholm, Stockholm County, Sweden said about anything he do and his business and how he is helping technology world from Sweden, very interesting person and individual, must listen.more info at https://smartcherrysthoughts.com

In this episode, Parinda Khatri, PhD, Chief Executive Officer of River Valley Health, joins the podcast to discuss expanding access to care regardless of a patient's ability to pay. She shares the keys to organizational success through alignment and building a supportive technology ecosystem, while also addressing the challenges of adopting new platforms and expanding services. Parinda offers insight into opportunities for growth as healthcare organizations navigate the year ahead.

We featured Willy's discussion with the industry's leading voices at the 2026 MBA CREF Conference. He was joined by James Millon, President & Co-Head of Capital Markets U.S. & Canada at CBRE Capital Markets, Justin Wheeler, Chief Executive Officer of Berkadia, and Michelle Herrick, Head of Commercial Real Estate at JPMorganChase. Together, they discussed the state of the commercial real estate market and where we are in the cycle, the gap between buyers and sellers and what may unlock transactions, how AI and data centers are shaping investment and lending, lessons on leadership and culture, and what the next few years may hold for talent and consolidation in the industry. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Parinda Khatri, PhD, Chief Executive Officer of River Valley Health, joins the podcast to discuss expanding access to care regardless of a patient's ability to pay. She shares the keys to organizational success through alignment and building a supportive technology ecosystem, while also addressing the challenges of adopting new platforms and expanding services. Parinda offers insight into opportunities for growth as healthcare organizations navigate the year ahead.

Helen Hall,  Chief Executive of the Policing and Community Safety Authority

The headline in the UCD paper, The University Observer reads: ‘UCD Fails to Safeguard Against Image-Based Sexual Assault' after image of student who had been raped sent to staff and students”.The article outlined the incident of a medical student in UCD who had a “nude, bruised and unconscious image of herself shared and circulated to a significant number of UCD staff email addresses and then some months later to a student WhatsApp group.The issue was raised in the Dáil by Ruth Coppinger; the People Before Profit TD stated that “The image was procured after she was raped by a student, a rape that she chose not to report”.Earlier in the show Shane spoke to the in question student, Katelyn, which is not her real name.For more on this, Shane is joined by Ruth Coppinger of the People Before Profit Solidarity & Rachel Morrogh, Chief Executive of the Dublin Rape Crisis Centre.

Why is abundant global capital is not translating into stronger productive investment, and what role the G20 can play in shaping a more resilient and sustainable capital flows framework in an increasingly fragmented global economy?Global finance has demonstrated considerable resilience despite persistent economic uncertainty, geopolitical tension and worsening debt dynamics. Capital flows and investment remain central to economic performance - particularly in emerging and developing economies.Yet assets held by non-bank financial institutions have expanded rapidly, reaching an estimated US$250 trillion, around 400% of GDP in advanced economies. At the same time, real investment as a share of GDP across many emerging and advanced economies has stagnated or declined since the 2008 global financial crisis.Persistent frictions, coordination failures and mispriced risk continue to constrain capital mobilisation for productivity-enhancing investment. Closing this gap is critical for long-term growth and sustainable development.If capital is abundant, why is productive investment lagging? And in an increasingly fragmented global economy, what role can the G20 play in shaping a more resilient and sustainable capital flows framework?GuestsSara Pantuliano (host), Chief Executive, ODI GlobalAli Cakiroglou, Director of Emerging Markets Research, HSBCMarcello Carvalho, Former Global Chief Economist, BNP ParibasPhyllis Papadavid, Senior Research Fellow, International Economic Development Group, ODI GlobalRelated resourcesTowards a G20 framework for capital flows to EMDEs: informing the UK Presidency (Expert comment, ODI Global)The case for a G20 liquidity shield amid geoeconomic fragmentation (Expert comment, ODI Global)

Report from Barry Lenihan; Pa Daly, Sinn Féin TD for Kerry; and Adam Harris, Chief Executive of 'As I Am' Autism Charity

Why tourists feel Ireland is an island of good food and value for money! All to chat about with Alice Mansergh the Chief Executive of Tourism Ireland.

New Zealand's not getting good bang for its infrastructure buck, according to some. The Infrastructure Commission has released a 30-year plan with 16 recommendations, and 10 top priorities for the next decade - including health spending. Infrastructure Commission chief executive Geoff Cooper says we rank high on spending in the OECD, but our outcomes are in the bottom 10 percent. He says New Zealand has unique problems we need to solve. "The geography is very difficult and we have a dispersed population. That means more pipes, more roads, more transmission lines and so on - and that costs, if you're going to do that." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Conor Sheehan, Labour TD for Limerick City & Neil McDonell, Chief Executive of ISME

Small businesses across the country are being encouraged to get involved in Local Enterprise Week 2026, as the full schedule has revealed over 330 events will be taking place across the five days. The initiative of the Local Enterprise Offices will see events taking place in each of the 31 local authority areas focused on helping businesses at all stages of their development, even those who may have a business idea they want to get support with. The events range from accessing funding and the benefits of AI to how to make your business more productive and save money. The events include an AI training event for small businesses with Google, an innovation day with Microsoft as part of the Student Enterprise Programme, Padel networking, a live pitch battle event for businesses, a host of events for International Women's Day with range of well-known names taking part across the country. From businesses that have been supported by their Local Enterprise Office like Ella & Jo to money experts like Eoin McGee, broadcaster and entrepreneur Bobby Kerr and sporting heroes like Kellie Harrington and Derval O'Rourke there is plenty on offer across the country. Kieran Comerford, Chair of the Local Enterprise Offices, said; "Local Enterprise Week is all about opportunity. If you've already got a business and there's a specific area you want to explore or find out more about then this is for you. Similarly, if you've got a great idea for a business and you want to sense check it with experts who have been there and done it, Local Enterprise Week is that opportunity. The Local Enterprise Offices open their doors to everyone and every business to show what is available and what is on offer and create events with experts and businesses that have seen it all. So, if you want to cut costs in your business, access funding or get a handle on how AI can positively impact your business then Local Enterprise Week is for you. It's the perfect chance to see the huge range of supports that are already out there." Anne Lanigan, Head of Local Enterprise and Regions, Enterprise Ireland, said; "Enterprise Ireland is delighted to support and be involved in Local Enterprise Week. Working closely with the Local Enterprise Offices, this week is a chance for small businesses to focus on key areas where they can make a real difference for their future ambitions. "This may be in relation to digitalisation or becoming more sustainable, or those who have ambition to grow internationally and begin to find new markets. If you are a business with the ambition to grow, internationalise or innovate, then there is something for you at Local Enterprise Week and we would encourage every small business out there to see what is happening in their area this year and take that next step." Shane Tiernan is Chair of the County and City Management Association (CCMA) Economic Development Committee and Chief Executive of Roscommon County Council. He said: "Small and medium-sized enterprises play a crucial role in building strong local economies. Helping these businesses grow and succeed continues to be a major focus for the local government sector. One of the key ways we deliver this support is through the Local Enterprise Office (LEO) network. "Each of Ireland's 31 local authorities has a LEO office, which provides both new and existing entrepreneurs with a broad mix of expertise, training, and practical supports. This is a fantastic resource, and I would encourage anyone considering starting or expanding a small business to explore what's available during Local Enterprise Week." The Local Enterprise Offices, located in the local authorities and funded through Enterprise Ireland, support thousands of small Irish businesses and entrepreneurs nationwide. Since their establishment in 2014, they have been the first stop for entrepreneurs and small businesses, and provide a range of supports, including funding, mentoring, training and sector-specific expertise to help guide businesses...

More evidence of an improving economy, based on the amount of freight hitting our roads. Freight company Freightways is reporting a 17 percent rise in half-year profit. Chief executive Mark Troughear says they're starting to see optimism return, slowly and steadily. "It's a good result, and that's a bit of market share gains - Australia is going really well for us. But in New Zealand, you're just starting to see customers trade a little bit up on what they did last year." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Today we welcome Sarah Jane to the R2Kast

We're starting today's show with a discussion on retirement age and would as always, love to hear your thoughts. The issue is back in the news thanks to the Chief Executive of Milford Investments saying New Zealanders will have to work into their 70s if the country wants to afford superannuation. The comments came as part of a wider debate being held at the New Zealand Economic Forum at Waikato University this week. Treasury has previously signaled that it's on track to become unaffordable unless the retirement age rises to around 72. But would any Government be up to changing the official retirement age? To discuss, I'm joined by author of The Kaka substack - Bernard Hickey

Overgrown roadside hedges can seriously put lives at risk by blocking road signs and forcing vehicles into oncoming traffic. Anton discusses further with Barry Kehoe, Chair of the County and City Management Association on Transport, Infrastructure and Networks Committee and Chief Executive of Westmeath County Council.

In today's episode of iGaming Daily SBC Media Manager Fernando Noodt is joined by SBC News Editor Ted Orme-Claye and iGaming Expert Business Journalist Christian Lee as the trio discuss Andrew Rhodes' decision to step down as Chief Executive of the UK Gambling Commission, reflecting on his “tough sheriff” tenure, the regulatory transformation under his watch, and what his departure means for the future direction of UK gambling governance.Tune in to today's episode to find out:Why Rhodes has chosen to leave now and whether the timing signals stability or unfinished businessHow the industry has reacted to his resignation, from praise for firm enforcement to criticism of regulatory overreachWhat fundamentally changed at the UKGC during his leadership, including enforcement strategy and political visibilityWhether his exit could slow key reforms such as the Single Customer View and land-based modernisationWhat kind of leadership the Commission needs next, continued hardline enforcement or a recalibration towards market stability and dialogueHost: Fernando NoodtGuests: Ted Orme-Claye & Christian LeeProducer: Anaya McDonaldEditor: Anaya McDonaldLearn how Optimove's Positionless Marketing is changing how iGaming teams operate. Discover how operators are using Optimove's Positionless Marketing Platform to launch personalised CRM campaigns, dynamically change casino lobbies and bet slips, and create engaging gamified experiences. Learn more at optimove.com.To see how this approach comes to life, Optimove Connect returns to London on March 11 and 12, 2026. It is the only user conference where marketers from around the world share real-world results of Positionless Marketing driving efficiency and ROI. Register at connect.optimove.com.Finally, remember to check out Optimove at https://hubs.la/Q02gLC5L0 or go to Optimove.com/sbc to get your first month free when buying the industry's leading customer-loyalty service.

Willy was joined by Michael Nierenberg, Chief Executive Officer of Rithm Capital, a diversified global asset manager with a growing footprint across private credit and real estate assets. Together, they discussed the evolution of Rithm Capital into a scaled asset management platform, the health of the U.S. consumer and asset-based lending markets, housing trends across single-family and multifamily, strategic shifts in the banking industry, and the macro outlook, including AI investment and today's market risks. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Tusla Wellbeing Project was set up last September to review the welfare of children whose protection cases were closed during Covid. For the latest Independent chair of the Tusla Wellbeing project and Chief Executive of the Children's Rights Alliance Tanya Ward.

The government says businesses are benefiting from its Investment Boost policy - introduced in last year's Budget, and is calling on Labour to retain it. Chief Executive of United Machinists, Sarah Ramsay spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.

Manufacturing company Skellerup has posted a record first half net profit, up 20% to $28.9 million - and they've upgraded their full year earnings guidance. The tariff hit is now expected to be just $2.5million this year - about half of what they originally feared. Chief Executive Graham Leaming told Mike Hosking that the company has made an effort in the US, and says the company's actions have helped prepare for the tariffs. "We have a strong presence on the ground in the US. We've got 50 people over there, so we understand our customers well and we understand the market well." LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

A shared ambition for the Canterbury region - is expected to secure the region's long term success. Business Canterbury, The Canterbury Mayoral Forum and the private sector have come together to form shared goals for the region. Business Canterbury Chief Executive Leeann Watson told Mike Hosking that everyone agrees they need to invest in what makes the region unique - which is better infrastructure, housing, affordability and the environment. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Recently, Prime Minister Narendra Modi visited Kerala and Tamil Nadu, scheduled to have Assembly elections soon, and stressed the need for a double-engine government. The term double-engine government refers to having the same political party (in this case, the Bharatiya Janata Party or its allies in the National Democratic Alliance) in power at both the Centre and in a State. Critics of this model include Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, who has asked how Opposition-ruled States are doing well without a double-engine government. Does a double-engine government ensure growth? Louise Tillin and Yamini Aiyar discuss the question in a conversation moderated by Sai Charan. Edited excerpts:Does the discourse around a double-engine government imply an inherent bias against non-BJP/non-NDA governments in the States? Guests: Louise Tillin is Professor of Politics at King's India Institute, LondonYamini Aiyar is former President and Chief Executive of the Centre for Policy Research and senior visiting fellow at Brown University Host: Sai Charan Edited by Sharmada Venkatasubramanian Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A major rethink of transport links and roading into Tai Rāwhiti is needed to ensure the economic future of the region as severe weather events become more frequent. Richard Burke, former Chief Executive of LeaderBrand spoke to Ingrid Hipkiss.

ASB Bank chief executive Vittoria Shortt speaks to Corin Dann.

This morning, we heard from the mother of a toddler who died after getting caught in a window blind cord - she wants to see a change to safety regulations; Plus, Westpac NZ's Chief Economist joined us as their Economic Overview pointed to a more positive outlook for the New Zealand economy; The former Chief Executive of LeaderBrand is calling for a major re-think of Tairawhiti roading; SailGP foils its way back into the city of sails, Tamaki Makaurau this weekend - we spoke to Tataki Auckland Unlimited Chief Executive Nick Hill; And, we were joined by the owner of a new company that's aiming to reunite missing dogs with their owners.

Ireland's only all-island angel investment syndicate, AwakenAngels, has returned from its latest United States trade mission, having secured a strategic partnership with global organisation Women in Innovation (WIN) to accelerate the number of women becoming early-stage investors. Through the partnership, the syndicate will educate women working across the globe in innovation, technology, finance, and enterprise to become active angel investors through participation in its AwakenAngels Academy. The partnership provides WIN's 6,000 members worldwide with access to the AwakenAngels Academy. The CPD-accredited programme is designed to equip women with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to invest in early-stage companies, including those led by Irish women. WIN members will join the next AwakenAngels Academy throughout 2026. The first cohort commences on 17th February, with a limited number of sponsored places still available for registration for women interested in learning more about angel investing at awakenangelshq.com. Formed in 2023, AwakenAngels recently revealed that it has already helped eight portfolio companies, all members of its sister all-island founder community, AwakenHub, secure more than €4.3M in investment. Portfolio companies include Gigi Supplements. The company, which won the InterTradeIreland Seedcorn competition, has just completed a €1.5M investment round and is now stocked in over 200 retail outlets, including Boots and Holland & Barrett stores across Ireland. Another four syndicate deals are set to close in the coming weeks. The new partnership was announced in New York at a reception at the British Consul General's residence, attended by senior diplomatic representatives, including Deputy Irish Consul General Roisin Leonard and Deputy British Consul General Mel Lawrence. The event was one of a series organised as part of AwakenHub and AwakenAngel's fourth St Brigid's Day Trade Mission, during which 13 women founders from NI and ROI pitched asks ranging from £1.5M to £7M. New research The agreement follows research highlighted by Chloe Alana Williams, co-lead of WIN's London chapter and founder of 8TH DAY, which found growing numbers of professional women are seeking alternative routes to investment advice and capital deployment. The findings cite low levels of trust in traditional banking and financial institutions. Instead, many are turning to peer-led networks and education-driven communities to guide their investment decisions, such as AwakenAngels. The Hidden Women Report's findings show 89% of the 2700 women surveyed feel it's important to be financially independent, rising to 92% among women 45+. Speaking about the partnership, Denise McQuaid, Cofounder and Director of Investor Relations, AwakenAngels, said: "The recent research by Chloe Williams, leader of the London WIN chapter, highlights the very real opportunities that exist for founder and angel investment communities like AwakenAngels and AwakenHub globally, and every woman who wants to have a bigger say in how she deploys her capital and owns her financial future. "This partnership is also very important news for women founders globally. Access to capital remains one of the biggest barriers to growth, and this collaboration with WIN will deliver a new global pipeline of informed, values-aligned women investors who actively want to invest into early-stage businesses worldwide. "By connecting women in innovation, finance, enterprise, and technology with the AwakenAngels Academy, we are turning their expertise and influence into ownership, and ensuring more women are at the investment table shaping the future of economies at home and around the world." Amanda Ramos, Chief Executive of WIN, said: "At WIN, we believe that true innovation requires a seat at every table, especially the one where financial decisions are made. This partnership with AwakenAngels is a vital step in evolving our members from industry practitioners to influential...

 We all know deep in our bones that gardening is good for us, but increasingly this is no longer a thing we just have to have faith in. The scientific evidence is mounting up that gardening can have transformative effects for our minds and bodies, helping us to make us fitter, less stressed and happier to boot. GP, Therapeutic Horticulture Advocate and Chief Executive of the National Garden Scheme Dr. Richard Claxton is at the forefront of this new scientific approach to gardening and health. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

 Early-stage founders spend years learning how to fundraise from venture capitalists.But very few ever look beyond the VC sitting across the table.Just like founders need to fundraise from VCs, VCs need to fundraise from limited partners.Who are the guys who give VCs the molah-molah?What are the hidden incentives?And how those dynamics quietly shape fundraising, timing, and pressure.“Everyone thinks they're pitching one person. They're not.”Ariel Barack is a Senior Partner and the Chief Executive of Ordway Selections, a private investment office investing primarily in food and agriculture, health, blockchains, and digital assets.As Einstein said, “You have to learn the rules of the game. And then you have to play better than anyone else.”Well, today we will look at the rules of the game, so you can play better than anyone else.This was a very interesting conversation, and I hope you will enjoy it as much as I did.LinksConnect with Ariel Barackhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/arielbarack/Mentioned: Anterra Capitalhttps://anterracapital.com/Connect with the host:⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/schmidt-marina/⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠marina@wearekinetik.comCould use some help with your comms? Check out ⁠⁠https://www.wearekinetik.com/

At the end of January, the US government released new files from its investigation into the sex offender and disgraced financier Jeffrey Epstein. The latest drop of material consists of three million pages, and thousands of images and videos. But why has the focus of the coverage been on the political fallout, appearing to show exchanges with high-profile men? What does this say about society's attitude to women more broadly? Some have already been voicing their concerns. Nuala McGovern is joined by Times journalist Helen Rumbelow and Penny East, Chief Executive at the Fawcett Society.At 41, Lindsey Vonn was hoping to become the oldest athlete to win a downhill skiing medal. The American skier has dominated the sport winning 84 World Cup races along with her three Olympic Winter Games medals. Having already suffered an ACL injury ahead of the Games, but still determined to compete, during the downhill event yesterday she crashed just a few seconds into her race. She had to be airlifted off the course. To find out more, we speak to two-time Winter Olympic snowboarder and broadcaster Aimee Fuller.Tonight BBC's Panorama focuses on the murder of two teenage boys in South London, Daejaun Campbell and Kelyan Bokassa, killed in 2024 and 2025 - both victims of child criminal exploitation and groomed by local gangs. Nuala speaks to Jodian Taylor, Daejaun's mother, and BBC's Frankie McCamley, the documentary's reporter.A new exhibition at the Charles Dickens museum celebrates the women who influenced the great Victorian novelist's female characters, social commentary and campaigning to improve the lives of vulnerable women. But how does this sit alongside the other, darker narrative, that Dickens himself was a misogynist who mistreated his own wife? To sort the fact from the fiction, the exhibition curator Kirsty Parsons & the historian Professor Jenny Hartley are in the Woman's Hour studio.Presenter: Nuala McGovern Producer: Kirsty Starkey

In this episode, Stephanie Everett, Administrator of Mountrail Bethel Home and Chief Executive Officer of Mountrail County Medical Center, joins the podcast to discuss building and sustaining a fully funded nursing home in a complex healthcare environment. She shares leadership lessons centered on listening to employees and acting on their concerns, the challenges of staying focused amid constant change, and the opportunities for organizational growth in the year ahead.

The FT's George Parker and strategic communications consultant Dafydd Rees joins us to talk all about Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer's nightmare week and future prospects. Newly minted Reform MS James Evans is in the studio. Cymorth Cymru's Katie Dalton explains the importance of MS voting on amendments after some MSs non-appearance at the Homelessness Bill's vote. Chief Executive of the Patient's association Rachel Power discusses the challenges posed by cross-border health services. Author Glen O'Hara discusses his new book, New Labour, New Britain?Reform's Joseph Martin and comedian Esyllt Sears review the papers.

The ongoing Undercover Policing Inquiry started again this week. It is believed at least 50 women were duped into intimate relationships with undercover officers over decades. Alison, not her real name, spent five years living with a man she knew as Mark Cassidy, who was in fact a married undercover Police Officer whose real name was Mark Jenner. She joins Nuala McGovern along with BBC London journalist Ayshea Buksh, who has been following this inquiry.The government has announced plans to relax fostering rules and create 10,000 new places for vulnerable children in England. Roxy and her mum Judy, from the BBC's recent Traitors series, join Nuala to discuss. Roxy was fostered until the age of five before being adopted by Judy. They are also joined by Sarah Thomas, Chief Executive of The Fostering Network.Paula Varjack talks to Anita about her show Nine Sixteenths. It examines the fallout from the infamous Janet Jackson and Justin Timberlake ‘wardrobe malfunction' incident at the 2004 Superbowl and the backlash that almost ruined Jackson's career. The play questions what this says about the demographics of who controls the media, the scrutinising of black women in the public eye and asks if anything has changed.We hear a lot about ‘mum guilt', but what about the guilt that can come along with not becoming a mother? Writer Ellen C Scott is child-free by choice but has recently experienced guilt towards her parents because she won't be providing them with grandchildren. She recently explored the topic for Stylist magazine and was surprised by how much it resonated with other women. Ellen and psychotherapist Professor Hannah Sherbersky discuss.AI companions are becoming increasingly common, with one in three adults now using them for conversation, advice and support. Now recent research from Bangor University has shown that many teen AI companion users believe their bots can think or understand. That research prompted Nicola Bryan, a reporter for BBC Wales News to investigate and acquire an "AI boyfriend" of her own in the process. Nicola talks to Anita about what happened next.The Puppini Sisters are celebrating 20 years of their antique pop, neo-burlesque swing music. Their new album The Birthday Party marks two decades since their debut, Betcha Bottom Dollar, spent almost a year on the Billboard chart in the US. It became the fastest-selling jazz album in UK chart history, with their fans including Robbie Williams and King Charles. They join Nuala to discuss their music.Presenter: Anita Rani Producer: Dianne McGregor

It was a pleasure to welcome Louis Gave, the Founding Partner and CEO of Gavekal, back to the Alpha Exchange. Our discussion centers on what he describes as one of the most consequential and underappreciated macro developments today: the mispricing—and now the policy shift—of the Chinese renminbi. Louis is quite bullish on China.Louis argues that for much of the past decade, China has acted as a powerful deflationary force on the global economy. In response to US trade restrictions, Chinese policymakers redirected domestic savings away from real estate and toward industrial capacity. This dual dynamic—collapsing real-estate activity alongside surging industrial investment—produced a deflationary impulse that many underestimated.A central feature of this adjustment was a deliberately undervalued currency. Despite large trade surpluses, the renminbi remained weak even as inflation diverged sharply between China and the United States. Louise describes this as one of the clearest examples of a “wrong price” in global markets, particularly when measured against purchasing-power indicators such as housing, transportation, and services.The discussion highlights a notable inflection point: the renminbi has recently begun to strengthen, signaling a shift in policy stance. According to Louis, this change has important implications for global asset prices. A strengthening currency in China alters incentives for capital deployment, challenges the appeal of holding US dollar cash, and reinforces broader reflationary trends already visible across commodities, yield curves, and financial assets.I hope you enjoy this episode of the Alpha Exchange, my conversation with Louis Gave.