In this episode of "Leadership Actually," hosts Lee Rogers and Lisa Powney engage in a lively conversation about leadership, personal growth, and the importance of human connection in the workplace with Gillian Drakeford MBE.

They reflect on their experiences, particularly Gillian's journey from a senior leader at IKEA to a coach and mentor. Gillian shares her insights on the significance of understanding people and their backgrounds, emphasising that leadership is not just about titles but about fostering relationships and creating inclusive environments. The discussion also touches on the value of meditation and mindfulness in leadership, highlighting how these practices can enhance clarity and decision-making.

As they delve deeper, Gillian recounts her early career experiences, the challenges she faced in hierarchical environments, and how her curiosity about people has shaped her leadership style. The conversation underscores the importance of connecting with individuals on a personal level, understanding cultural differences, and the role of purpose in driving organisational success. Ultimately, the episode serves as a reminder that effective leadership is rooted in authenticity, empathy, and a genuine desire to uplift others.

In this conversation, Nigel Sullivan discusses the evolution of leadership styles from traditional command and control to a more supportive and empowering approach. He emphasises the importance of being approachable and focusing on the well-being and development of team members.

Lee and Lisa, give an honest and feel review of the series. They discuss what inspired them, what the stand out moments were from each guest and as you would expect, what were some of the messy moments. In this series there have been moments of laughter and joy, moments of being in awe and real tears that have flowed.

Lee and Lisa discuss the common themes coming out from the series and a nod to what Series 3 has in store. There is also an announcement of an epic charity challenge in 2026.

In this episode of Leadership Actually, hosts Lee Rogers and Lisa Powney engage in a deep conversation with Laura Pomfret CEO and Co-founder of Financielle and financial expert on BBC Morning Live about the intersection of leadership, financial empowerment, and the importance of community support. They explore the complexities of financial conversations, the gender pay and pension gap, and the role of employers in fostering financial wellbeing. The discussion emphasises the emotional aspects of money management and the need for financial education to empower individuals, particularly women, to take control of their financial futures. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to reflect on their financial habits and consider how they can make positive changes in their lives.

Summary

In this conversation, Lee Rogers, Lisa Powney and John Shiels discuss the importance of leadership in education and youth development. They explore themes such as resilience, social mobility, and the role of purposeful leadership in creating opportunities for young people. John shares insights from his experience at the Manchester United Foundation, emphasising the need for engagement, support, and listening to youth voices. The discussion also highlights the significance of building a strong team culture and the future skills needed for effective leadership.

In this insightful episode of Leadership Actually, JonDutton OBE provides a refreshing perspective on leadership in the sports sector. His experiences remind us that leadership is not just about titles or accolades butabout embracing our humanity, learning from our mistakes, and focusing on making a positive impact in our communities.

Discover the journey of Chris Knight, a leader who transformed from a reluctant manager to an authentic leader. In this episode, Chris shares his insights on overcoming imposter syndrome, embracing vulnerability, and leading with integrity.

In this engaging conversation, Lee Rogers and Lisa Powney welcome Uchenna Forjoe, who shares her unique journey from hairdressing to project management. The discussion delves into the complexities of leadership, the importance of building relationships, and the challenges of navigating matrix management. Uchenna emphasises the significance of asking questions, understanding team dynamics, and the need for strategic thinking in leadership roles. As she reflects on her experiences, she also shares insights on personal growth and the importance of enjoying the journey, especially during transitional phases in one's career.