In this episode of Recon, host Bev Williams speaks with Penny Vinten, a seasoned professional in the construction industry. They discuss Penny's career journey, the importance of mentorship, leadership qualities, and the evolving landscape of the construction sector.

Penny shares her insights on navigating challenges, the significance of integrity, and her hopes for the future of women in construction. The conversation emphasises the value of experience, continuous learning, and supporting the next generation of leaders.

One of her most powerful insights? “Expertise opens doors. Integrity keeps them open.”

Everyone faces setbacks, but Penny’s story highlights that perseverance and integrity can turn even the darkest moments into victories. She recounts a period where her professionalism was questioned — an experience that shook her confidence and triggered panic attacks.Her response? Staying the course. With support from family and friends, Penny proved her innocence and emerged stronger. Her resilience teaches us that real strength lies in standing firm, fighting for what’s right, and trusting your judgment. A valuable lesson: “Don’t let external negativity define you. Your integrity is your most valuable asset.”

Takeaways:

• Leadership is about daily integrity, consistency, and approachability.
• Resilience and staying true to your values will see you through challenges.
• Mentoring and supporting women accelerates positive change in the industry.
• Building for the future requires social responsibility coupled with excellence.
• Career paths are rarely linear—embrace the unpredictable and enjoy the ride.
• Every day brings new challenges, and it's okay to have ups and downs.
• Continuous learning is essential for effective leadership.
• Integrity is the foundation of trust and long-term success.
• Embrace change and continuous learning to stay relevant.

Resources:

· The NSPCC Building Safer Communities for Children toolkit puts children at the heart of places the sector designs, builds and operates.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Penny Vinten

01:40 Navigating Career Transitions

06:04 Leadership Insights and Consistency

07:51 Overcoming Challenges in Career

10:15 Lessons Learned and Integrity

13:30 Women in Construction and Support

19:39 Future Hopes for the Industry

21:10 Closing Thoughts and Inspirational Quotes

In this engaging episode of Recon, host Bev Williams speaks with Kate Mason, Senior Principal of Workplace Design at Unispace, about her extensive career in the construction industry.

They discuss the importance of relationships, the challenges of maternity leave, and the evolving role of women in leadership. Kate shares her insights on effective leadership, the significance of mentorship, and the need for greater support for women returning to work.

The conversation highlights the importance of using one's voice and the hope for a more inclusive future in the construction industry.

Takeaways:

· The most rewarding aspect of my career is the relationships I've built.

· Leadership is learned over time and requires self-reflection.

· It's important to support women returning from maternity leave.

· Judging others too quickly can hinder personal growth.

· Embracing age and experience can be empowering in the workplace.

· Mentorship is crucial for guiding women in their careers.

· The construction industry needs to attract women from an early age.

· Flexible roles can help women return to work after a break.

· Using your voice is essential for making change.

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 Kate Mason and Her Journey

04:32 The Rewards of Relationships in the Industry

08:29 Leadership: Actions, Habits, and Reflections

12:54 Challenges of Maternity Leave and Career Progression

15:29 Lessons Learned: Judging Others and Personal Growth

18:52 Embracing Age and Experience in the Workplace

23:31 The Importance of Mentorship and Supporting Women

27:35 Future Hopes for Women in the Construction Industry

31:31 Closing Thoughts and Inspirational Messages

In this episode, Bev interviews Yoshimi Douglas Street, a trailblazing woman in construction, golf, and advocacy. They discuss her career journey from painter to Operations Director, her passion for mentoring, and her efforts to increase diversity and inclusion in the industry.

Yoshimi transitioned from being a successful painter and decorator to pursuing a management role, recognising the need for long-term career sustainability. Her background in the trades gives her a unique perspective.

One of the key themes that emerged from our conversation is the vital role mentorship plays in the construction industry. Yoshimi emphasises the impact of having mentors early in one's career, "I never had a mentor, and I think if I would have had one earlier, maybe the path would have been slightly different." By mentoring graduates and apprentices, she aims to provide guidance and support to the next generation, helping them navigate their careers successfully.

Yoshimi advocates for creating psychological safety in the workplace. She believes that leaders must ensure their teams feel safe to express themselves fully. "Ensuring safe spaces for my teams is crucially important," she says. This approach not only fosters open communication but also encourages individuals to bring their authentic selves to work, enhancing team dynamics and productivity.

As we conclude our discussion, it's evident that Yoshimi is not just a leader in the construction industry, but also a passionate advocate for women and of course Golf! Her journey and insights serve as an inspiration for many aspiring professionals, emphasising the importance of representation and support in the workplace.

Takeaways:

· Consistent visibility as a leader builds trust and inspires others

· Transitioning from trades to management can create well-rounded leaders who understand all facets of the industry.

· Early mentorship can significantly influence career trajectories, providing guidance and support.

· Creating a safe and inclusive workplace environment is essential for maximising team potential and job satisfaction.

· Persistence in knocking on doors is key to success

Resources

Fore Her Collective (formerly Ladies_Can_Golf the England Golf Award Winning 2026) is a vibrant women's corporate golf community designed to connect, empower and elevate women within the corporate world

https://www.linkedin.com/company/foreher-collective/

Construction for women Anglia, launched in February 2020 to connect people across the construction industry in the East of England.

https://womeninconstructionanglia.com

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 Yoshimi

01:59 The Journey into Golf & Networking

04:41 Mentorship& Giving Back

06:47 Transitioning from Trade to Management

09:25 Leadership Mindset & Consistent Actions

11:55 Challenges in Career a& Personality Management

16:14 Embracing Identity in a Male-Dominated Industry

17:26 The Impact of Family on Women's Careers

20:57 Learning from Failures

24:07 Inspiring Future Generations

25:55 Hopes for the Future of Construction

28:29 Advice for the Next Generation

In this episode Julia Barrett, Chief Sustainability and Compliance Officer at Willmott Dixon shares her unexpected career path from chemical engineering to board leadership in construction, leadership insights, and her vision for a sustainable, diverse industry by 2030.

A trailblazer in sustainable construction and diversity. This episode is a call to action for anyone daring to make a real impact in the industry.

Julia’s story underscores that leadership isn’t a solo journey. Her impactful mentorship programs and commitment to fostering peer support reveal how collective effort accelerates change.She’s candid about boundaries—acknowledging the necessity of self-care, setting limits, and working flexibly. Her point? “Make it work for you, not the other way around.” Doing so isn’t just good for you—it’s essential for sustainable leadership.

Her reflection on her biggest challenges? Managing the realisation that she often managed experts more knowledgeable than herself. Her breakthrough? Embracing that as a strength, not a weakness—trusting her team, asking questions, being persuadable, and staying curious.Julia’s leadership mantra? “You’re not indispensable. Recognise your worth, celebrate your wins, and keep pushing forward".

The Bottom Line... Julia Barrett isn’t just transforming construction—she’s redefining what leadership looks like for women everywhere. Her story urges you to embrace authenticity, challenge assumptions, and lead with purpose. Because when you do, you ignite progress that lasts.

Takeaways:

· Authenticity and honesty are key to good leadership.

· Leadership is about mindset and consistent actions, not titles.

· Good leaders treat everyone with respect and learn from their team.

· You don't need to be the expert to lead effectively.

· Setting ambitious diversity targets drives industry change.

Resources & Links:

Why Good Girls Don’t Get Ahead But Gutsy Girls Do by Kate White

Supply Chain Sustainability School

Aldersgate Group

Chapters:

00:00 - Welcome and episode overview: Julia Barrett’s inspiring leadership story

02:24 - Julia’s approach to sustainable development and industry recognition

03:58 - How her early career shaped her leadership style

04:29 - Julia’s go-to playlist and the power of emotional uplift

08:39 - The importance of mindset and habits for authentic leadership

09:45 - Leading through energy, positivity, and integrity

12:29 - Setting boundaries to balance work and family

14:36 - Overcoming the challenge of managing experts who know more

20:25 - The empowering lesson: Nobody is indispensable

22:12 - Recognising the value of diverse opinions and storytelling backed by data

27:27 - Progress made in providing equality of facilities and opportunities

39:27 - The industry’s role in delivering sustainability and diversity goals by 2030

In this episode of Recon, host Bev speaks with Bidisha Sinha, Associate Director at Zaha Hadid Architects, about her journey in the construction industry, emphasising the importance of resilience, visibility, and self-belief. They discuss the challenges faced by women in architecture, the necessity of effective communication and trust in team dynamics. Bidisha shares her experiences of overcoming stereotypes, the value of authenticity, and the lessons learned from failures.

Bidisha highlights that resilience is crucial in architecture, where each project presents unique challenges. She emphasises the importance of clarity of vision and trust within a team. "If you want everyone to buy in and take ownership, it's really important that you know what the value of that project is and the value of your own input on it," she states. This approach fosters an environment where team members feel empowered to communicate openly, especially when challenges arise.

With Bidisha's current projects spanning across Asia and Europe, managing different time zones and work weeks can be daunting. She candidly admits, "I'm not sure I'm doing such a good job of looking after myself always." However, she recognises the importance of prioritisation and delegation in leadership underscoring the significance of self-care in sustaining effective leadership.

Takeaways:

· Control in leadership is a positive attribute.

· Clarity of vision and values is essential for leaders.

· Delegation is key to maintaining self-care.

· Earning respect is more effective than demanding it.

· Authenticity is vital in professional interactions.

· Planning for challenges is essential in construction.

· Things will inevitably go wrong; preparation is vital.

· Authenticity and kindness are important in professional settings.

· Navigating stereotypes requires self-awareness and confidence.

· Maintaining relevance in a team is essential for success.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction to Resilience and Self-Belief

04:31 The Rewards of Reinvention

07:43 Leadership Mindset and Actions

09:38 Managing International Projects and Self-Care

13:02 Overcoming Challenges in Construction

19:07 Lessons Learned from Mistakes

23:22 Navigating Tough Conversations in Design

24:13 The Importance of Communication in Leadership

27:42 Overcoming Gender Bias in the Workplace

31:09 Learning from Failures and Stereotypes

34:04 Authenticity and Self-Confidence in Career

38:31 Future of the Construction Industry

40:30 Empowering the Next Generation of Leaders

In this episode of Recon, host Bev Williams interviews Renee Preston, CEO of Gallaway Construction, who shares her journey in the construction industry, her commitment to creating impactful change for women, and her insights on leadership, mentoring, and personal challenges. Renee discusses the importance of supporting women in construction, the need for cultural change within the industry, and her experiences with personal health challenges that shaped her perspective on work-life balance.

She emphasises the significance of being a disruptor in the industry and the lessons learned from failures, while also highlighting her unexpected role in political leadership to advocate for change. Renee's passion for building impact and her hopes for the future of the construction industry are evident throughout the conversation.

With over 15 industry awards to her name in 2025 alone, including the Woman of the Year at the Property Week Awards, Renee's journey is a testament to resilience, determination, and the transformative power of inclusivity in the workplace.

"I want to walk on a building site and know that I feel that pride and know that I've done that," she shares. This commitment to fostering a supportive culture for women has led her to spearhead The National Site Standard and various initiatives aimed at increasing female participation in construction.

One of Renee's key contributions is the Construction for Women initiative. This nationwide program is designed to open up construction careers for women. Follow them on LinkedIn… https://www.linkedin.com/company/construction-for-women/

Renee's journey is an inspiring example of how one individual can make a profound impact on their industry. Through her initiatives and commitment to inclusivity, she is not only changing the narrative for women in construction but also paving the way for a more equitable future.

As we look ahead, key takeaways from Renee's story include the need for supportive networks, the necessity of setting boundaries for personal well-being and the importance of mentorship. As Renee points out, mentoring can significantly improve retention rates; mentees are five times more likely to remain in their roles.

Takeaways:

· Supporting women in the industry is crucial for retention.

· Mentoring programs significantly improve retention rates.

· Setting boundaries is essential for work-life balance.

· Embracing disruption can lead to positive change.

· Trusting the wrong people can lead to challenges.

· Political awareness is important for industry advocacy.

· Building impact is about changing lives, not just numbers.

· Self-belief and support from peers are vital for success.

National Site Standard launched https://www.constructionnews.co.uk/government/national-site-standard-for-women-launched-15-01-2026/

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction

03:54 Renee's Journey and Impact in Construction

10:06 Leadership & Mentoring in the Industry

12:11 Personal Challenges & Boundaries

20:32 Embracing Disruption & Change

24:08 Lessons Learned from Failures

26:45 Unexpected Political Leadership

33:12 Building Impact & Future Aspirations

40:39 Advice to Younger Self

In this episode of Recon, host Bev Williams engages in a candid conversation with Danielle Rowley, a director in cost management at AECOM. Danielle shares her unique journey into the construction industry, which began at the age of 26 after a career in publishing. With nearly two decades of experience, she discusses the challenges and rewards of her role, emphasising the importance of resilience and reinvention in both personal and professional spheres. As a single mother and caregiver, Danielle reflects on the balance between significant personal responsibilities and professional ambition, highlighting her passion for mentoring women in construction and fostering honest conversations about career transitions.

Throughout the discussion, Danielle emphasises the value of empowering others, particularly younger professionals, by sharing her experiences and insights. She speaks about the importance of being comfortable at the table, the shift from process-driven to people-driven leadership, and the significance of building trust within teams. The conversation also touches on the challenges of entering the construction field later in life, the need for visibility in the industry, and the importance of mentorship in supporting women and men alike during pivotal life changes such as maternity and paternity leave. Danielle's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of creating supportive environments for future generations in the workplace.

Takeaways:

· Helping younger people is the most rewarding aspect of my career.

· Confidence follows action, not the other way around.

· Reputation and professionalism compounds over time.

· You can't please all the people all the time.

· It's about treating people how you want to be treated.

· We need to explain the roles in construction to younger generations.

· Visibility and accessibility are key in mentoring.

· Don't settle; always push yourself to grow.

· Sometimes you need to jump in and take action.

· Nurturing your team is more important than just being in charge.

Danielle is a Mentor with The Circle Partnership Mentoring Circle https://thecirclepartnership.com/mentoring-circle/

Chapters:

· 00:00 Introduction to Recon and Guest Danielle Rowley

· 02:20 Danielle's Journey into Construction

· 03:33 Rewards of Mentoring and Empowering Others

· 06:51 Leadership: Actions, Boundaries, and Empathy

· 09:27 Challenges of Entering Construction Later in Life

· 15:11 Lessons Learned: Reputation and Professionalism

· 18:48 Facing Disappointments and Learning from Them

· 20:39 Unexpected Experiences in Career

· 24:19 Holding the Ladder Down for Other Women

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