In this weeks podcast, Jacqueline interviews Rhian-Mari Thomas OBE, CEO, Green Finance Institute. The conversation explores their journeys as female leaders in finance, highlighting how their roles have shaped their leadership philosophies.

Jacqueline recalls their initial connection formed over shared experiences in senior financial positions. Rhian-Mari discusses effective leadership, emphasizing inspiration and collaboration over authoritarian methods. She reflects on her tenure at the Green Finance Institute, advocating for a focus on outcomes, which has steered her through complex challenges and strategic decision-making.

Rhian-Mari also addresses personal growth, noting the importance of learning from others and self-awareness through tools like the Clifton Strengths Test. She stresses maintaining authenticity and balancing ambition with well-being.

The discussion concludes with Rian-Mari quoting Ruth Bader Ginsburg, urging listeners to advocate passionately in ways that inspire collective effort.

In this episode, host Jacqueline Frost talks to Carmina Lees, Managing Director, Financial Services, Accenture
Dive into the transformative power of saying "no" with the latest episode of "Finding Your EPIC," This insightful discussion between Jacqueline and Carmina reveals how mastering the art of refusal can dramatically shape your career and improve workplace dynamics. Carmina shares powerful personal stories from her time at Accenture, highlighting the positive impact of setting boundaries. Learn to empower yourself and foster respect within your team with this essential skill. Don't miss out on these career-changing insights—tune in now and start transforming the way you work and live!

In this podcast conversation between Jacqueline Frost and Carolina de La Paz, the focus is on Carolina's initiative called "Women Enhancing Logistics" at Lenovo, aimed at promoting diversity and women's leadership in the logistics industry. Jacqueline was inspired by Carolina's story and reached out to her after listening to a discussion on ambition gaps. Carolina explains that her initiative aims to leverage her position as a senior logistics manager to address the lack of female representation in her field. She emphasizes the importance of creating a supportive network and providing role models for future generations.

Carolina shares that the initiative has been successful, reaching over 2500 individuals globally and garnering support from senior male leaders. They discuss the importance of storytelling and addressing unconscious bias in the industry. The sessions cover topics like leadership and personal growth, focusing on macro issues applicable to everyone while promoting inclusivity. Despite challenges, including the shift to virtual sessions due to COVID-19, Carolina remains motivated by positive feedback and the impact of her work. She shares her mantra of taking decisive steps and maintaining persistence, emphasizing progress over perfection. The conversation highlights the importance of collaboration, storytelling, and fostering a supportive environment for women in traditionally male-dominated industries.

In the latest EPIC podcast Jacqueline's guest is Lucy Newcombe. Lucy discusses her career journey and key insights into problem-solving and communication. Lucy, who has a background in journalism, PR, marketing, and corporate communications, currently holds the role of Chief People and ESD Officer at Computershare.
Throughout the conversation, Lucy highlights the gradual realization of her own problem-solving skills, particularly during a pivotal moment early in her career in Australia. Tasked with a complex challenge by the Chief Legal Officer, she learned to deconstruct problems into manageable parts, a skill she traces back to overcoming imposter syndrome and a curious nature developed from childhood.

Lucy and Jacqueline discuss the importance of asking questions, a principle Lucy adheres to regardless of the setting, including board meetings and executive discussions. This approach not only clarifies understanding but also empowers others to engage more actively. They reference a significant moment when the global CEO openly admitted to not understanding a CFO’s presentation, which validated Lucy’s own uncertainties and underscored the importance of clear communication.

A recurring theme in the discussion is the empowerment derived from simplicity and the courage to inquire. Lucy emphasizes how these principles have enabled her to navigate her career transition from PR to leading HR functions, including handling complex payroll systems. By breaking down information into simpler components, she feels confident tackling unfamiliar challenges and encourages others to adopt a similar approach.

Lucy’s closing thought, inspired by a quote from Gandalf in J.R.R. Tolkien’s writings, encapsulates her philosophy: we must decide how to use our time wisely, choosing either to complicate or simplify our approach to challenges to maximize our impact and effectiveness. This perspective not only guides her professional actions but also serves as a personal mantra, reminding her to pursue clarity and purpose daily.
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In this episode of the "Finding Your Epic" podcast Jacqueline Frost talks with Heather Key, Chief Legal Counsel at Serco and Chair of the Army Families Federation, discusses her 12-year journey of career development and community building. Heather highlights her transition from head of legal at her previous employer to achieving professional and personal goals, including non-executive roles and volunteer work. She emphasizes the importance of connecting diverse individuals to advance collective well-being across professional, church, and family spheres.

Heather also shares her experiences with Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) initiatives, from establishing women's groups to contributing to inclusion hubs at Serco, underlining the significance of authenticity and collaboration. The conversation also covers the evolution of networking in a post-COVID-19 era, advocating for a curiosity-led approach to foster meaningful relationships and mutual growth. The concept of the "O-shaped lawyer" is introduced, promoting a holistic and empathetic approach to legal practice.
Heather Key leaves the audience with a quote by Helen Keller, "Alone, we can do so little; together, we can do so much," encapsulating the essence of the conversation about the power of community and collective action in achieving greater impact.

In a conversation between Jacqueline Frost and Melinda Burn, Melinda, the Vice President of Strategic Marketing at Solecta Inc, discusses her multifaceted role and career trajectory. Melinda's journey from a chemistry background to marketing leadership is marked by intentional steps and proactive decision-making. She emphasizes the importance of curiosity, seeking feedback, and being open to new opportunities.

Mentoring, both seeking and providing, is highlighted as mutually beneficial, offering insights and learning experiences. Melinda advocates for a strategic approach to career development, emphasizing self-awareness and a willingness to explore diverse roles within an organization.

Jacqueline underscores the significance of proactive engagement and bravery in shaping one's career path. The discussion concludes with Melinda sharing a quote: "Opportunities don't happen. You create them," emphasizing the proactive nature of career growth.

Overall, the conversation offers insights into navigating career paths, leveraging mentorship, and fostering a mindset of continuous learning and growth.

In this conversation between Jacqueline Frost and Emma Codd, Emma shares her journey from being a forensic practitioner to her current role as the Global Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer for Deloitte. She recounts her career changes and the pivotal moments that led her to her current passion for diversity and inclusion.

Emma discusses her transition from a career in forensic consulting to her current role, highlighting the influence of key sponsors and mentors who recognized her potential and provided opportunities for growth. She emphasizes the importance of lived experiences, purpose, and passion in driving her commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

Jacqueline and Emma discuss the challenges faced by women in male-dominated industries, including workplace harassment and discrimination. They reflect on the importance of addressing these issues and creating safe and inclusive environments for all employees.

The conversation also touches on broader societal challenges, such as gender inequality and reproductive rights, with Emma expressing her concern and frustration at the slow pace of progress. However, she remains optimistic about the positive changes happening globally and emphasizes the role of individuals and organizations in driving meaningful change.

In conclusion, Emma encourages individuals to be brave and bold in advocating for equality and inclusion, both in the workplace and society. She emphasizes the importance of calling out injustice and working together to create a more equitable future for all.

In this episode, host Jacqueline Frost talks to Sam Cooper-Gray, Global Head of Market Strategy and Engagement, HSBC Business Banking

In a candid discussion, Sam highlights the significance of the importance of adding value.

As a mentor and confidante, she exemplifies the transformative power of meaningful relationships. From research to speaking up in meetings, Sam knows how to add value in professional settings. She believes in reciprocity, deepening relationships through assistance and insight.

Join her journey of empowerment and inspiration, where finding your epic means connecting authentically and adding value at every turn.

Contact Sam on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samcoopergray/