In this bonus episode for International Women's Day, Bev Williams is interviewed by her long-time friend Roslyn Robertson. They discuss the theme of giving to gain, the challenges women face in the construction industry, and the importance of mentorship and leadership. Bev shares her personal journey, including her experiences with self-belief, motherhood, the lesson of the Fact or Thought Filter and the pressures of visibility in her career. The conversation highlights the significance of vulnerability, the impact of burnout, and the lessons learned through failure. They conclude with hopes for a more inclusive future in the construction industry and the importance of supporting one another.

Key Insights:

1. Mentoring and Coaching: One of the most rewarding aspects of Bev's career is mentoring others. She finds fulfillment in helping individuals navigate their challenges and achieve their goals.

2. Authenticity: In this reinventive stage, it's essential to allow yourself to be authentic. Bev believes that shedding the need to please others leads to greater clarity and confidence.

3. Neuroscience of Change: Bev discusses a fascinating concept from neuroscience about how as we age, our brains undergo changes that allow us to prioritise what truly matters. This process can lead to a significant shift in how we perceive ourselves and our roles in society.

4. Clarity Over Complexity: The clarity that comes from embracing your true self is liberating. It allows you to focus on what truly matters rather than conforming to external pressures.

Takeaways:

· Giving is not a subtraction, but a multiplication of impact.

· Leadership is about authenticity and resilience.

· Fact vs. Thought is a powerful tool for clarity.

· Vulnerability does not equate to victimhood.

· Burnout is a significant issue for women in leadership.

· Failure can lead to personal growth and understanding.

· Visibility in the workplace is essential for success.

For more information on the 3 phases of a woman's career please head to the resources section at www.breathecoaching.co.uk

Breathe by Becky Hemsley https://breathecoaching.co.uk/poem-breathe/

Ellen Scherr article: https://themidst.substack.com/p/aging-out-of-fcks

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction

00:04 Learning from Failure and Vulnerability

35:12 The Pressure of Hyper Visibility

38:04 Supporting Women in Construction

41:50 Hopes for the Future of Construction

In this episode of Recon, host Bev Williams engages in a rich conversation with Helen Berresford a prominent figure in the construction industry. Helen shares her journey through various stages of her career, emphasising the importance of collaboration and the human-centric approach in design. She reflects on her experiences at significant events like Live Aid, which shaped her perspective on the power of music in inspiring change. Helen discusses her current role at Sheppard Robson, where she leads the IDSR team, and highlights the rewarding aspects of mentoring young professionals, particularly women in the industry. The conversation also touches on the evolving landscape of construction, the significance of well-being in design, and the need for authenticity in leadership.

Conclusion:

Helen Berresford's journey in the construction industry is a testament to the power of collaboration, continuous learning, and the joy of creating spaces that serve communities. As she embraces this reinventive stage of her career, her insights remind us that success is not just about individual achievements but about lifting each other up and celebrating collective victories.

Takeaways:

· Setting boundaries is crucial for maintaining personal and professional balance.

· From the golden threads - Weave you own tapestr !

· Helen learned to empower her team rather than take on their burdens.

· Overcoming stereotypes is essential for personal growth and success.

· Designing healthy environments is vital for well-being.

· Helen encourages younger professionals to embrace the roller coaster of their careers.

· Leadership is about creating the right environment for growth.

· Nostalgic experiences can inspire current and future endeavours.

As promised... Bowie & Jagger ‘Dancing in the street’ clip https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=opRRax4ph3E

For more information on the 3 phases of a woman's career please head to the resources section at www.breathecoaching.co.uk

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Recon and Helen Berresford

01:46 Helen's Theme Tune and Live Aid Memories

05:54 The Rewards of the Reinventive Stage

09:11 Leadership: Actions and Mindset

13:55 Challenges in Career and Overcoming Them

16:45 Transforming Client Engagement in Design

16:46 Lessons in Leadership and Persistence

21:00 The Importance of Authenticity in Leadership

31:08 Hopes for the Future of the Construction Industry

35:34 Trusting Yourself on the Journey