The Diary of a Future CEO
The Diary of a Future CEO is a podcast full of inspiring stories, honest insights and unforgettable journeys.
Hosted and produced by Claire Ziwa, this series brings you conversations with Perse alumni who’ve carved out extraordinary paths, from chart-topping musicians and elite athletes, to pioneering lawyers and bold explorers.
We’ll hear from people who’ve overcome hurdles, stayed true to their goals, and turned ambition into action. Whether you're after a fresh perspective, a dose of motivation, or just a great story well told, this podcast is for you.
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YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@ThePerseSchoolCambridge
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Website: https://www.perse.co.uk
Episodes
15 episodes
The Diary of a Future CEO with Dr James Bradley: Inspiring stories to ignite the next generation
Join us in this episode of The Diary of a Future CEO as we meet Dr James Bradley, (OP, 2008) a pioneering scientist whose research takes him from the frozen edges of the planet to the frontiers of science in search of answers to some of our wor...
The Diary of a Future CEO with Ben Parker: Inspiring stories to ignite the next generation
Meet Ben Parker, Director of Outdoor Education and Head of Climbing at The Perse School Cambridge. In this conversation, Ben reflects on his journey from a childhood passion for the outdoors to leading world class expeditions to pla...
The Diary of a Future CEO with Beatrice Rogers: Inspiring stories to ignite the next generation
Beatrice Rogers (OP, 2024) is making a name for herself in the world of women’s football. Known for her sharp footballing mind, natural talent, and relentless drive, she’s become one to watch as she climbs the ranks of the game. Her journey has...
The Diary of a Future CEO with Smera Sachin: Inspiring stories to ignite the next generation
Smera, a talented student from The Perse, (OP, 2025) is heading to Harvard to pursue her passion for engineering and STEM. A gifted musician and dedicated all-rounder, Smera balances academic ambition with a vibrant and fulfilling life be...
The Diary of a Future CEO with Mark Emerton: Inspiring stories to ignite the next generation
Mark Emerton, an Old Persean (1979), has led an extraordinary career spanning the Royal Navy, the legal profession, and the judiciary. After studying Geography at Oxford while on a Naval Cadetship, Mark went on to qualify as a barrister and ser...
The Diary of a Future CEO with Tess Howard MBE: Inspiring stories to ignite the next generation
Are you considering a career in sport? In this podcast we meet Tess Howard MBE, a GB Olympian, athlete, changemaker, trailblazer and academic. Tess is an elite hockey player, representing her country at the highest level, including ...
The Diary of a Future CEO with Dr Amelia Peak: Inspiring stories to ignite the next generation
Do you dream of becoming a doctor and making a difference to the lives of patients? In this podcast we meet Dr Amelia Peak, working at the heart of patient care within the NHS. In this podcast Amelia and Claire Ziwa discuss the foll...
The Diary of a Future CEO with Marcus Wentzell: Inspiring stories to ignite the next generation
Head of School Marcus Wentzell shares his experience of being a student at The Perse, reflecting on his exciting Rouse research into the effectiveness of muometric positioning systems in underground navigation, as well as his passion for playin...
The Diary of a Future CEO with Versha Wahid: Inspiring stories to ignite the next generation
Busy student Versha shares her passion for making a difference in the world, with her research into anti-malaria interventions and her role with the Children and Young People's Board at Addenbrooke's Hospital. This Perse student and...
The Diary of a Future CEO with Ioanna MacKenna: Inspiring stories to ignite the next generation
Are you a fan of TikTok?In our podcast with student Ioanna MacKenna she shares her research about TikTok and its influence on young people and politics.Ioanna is a passionate advocate for modernising politics and earlier this year...
The Diary of a Future CEO with Neil Sardesai: Inspiring stories to ignite the next generation
Are you thinking about a career in medicine?In this podcast we meet Neil, a third year medical student at the University of Cambridge who chose to intercalate medicine with engineering.This combination gave Neil the opportunity to...
The Diary of a Future CEO with George Lawton: Inspiring stories to ignite the next generation
Ever wanted to work in lighting design? In this podcast we meet Senior Lighting Designer George Lawton who completed his A level studies at The Perse School in 2016 before going to Rose Bruford College.In this conversation Ge...
The Diary of a Future CEO with Midé Naike: Inspiring stories to ignite the next generation
Ever wanted to get into the music industry? In our podcast with beatboxer Midé Naike, he shares his life journey so far with Claire Ziwa, with inspiring stories of how he overcame rejection on Britain's Got Talent to ultimately winning The Nake...
The Diary of a Future CEO with Bella Howarth: Inspiring stories to ignite the next generation
Do you love sport? In this podcast we meet Bella Howarth who completed her A level studies at The Perse School in 2023 before going to University. Not only did Bella represent the school in cricket, netball and hockey but she also started playi...
The Diary of a Future CEO with Fabian Dodds: Inspiring stories to ignite the next generation
Are you creative and full of ideas? Do you love building things? Are you fascinated with how things work?In this podcast Fabian Dodds talks to Claire Ziwa and inspires the next generation of engineers with his journey so far, giving us a...