Inspiring Working Lives
Inspiring Working Lives is the podcast that dives into the real stories behind the job titles. Each episode features honest conversations with inspiring leaders across the public and not-for-profit sectors — exploring how they got to where they are, the challenges they've faced, the advice they’d give to others, and their take on the future of work.
Whether you're climbing the ladder, changing direction or simply curious about the people shaping our workplaces, Inspiring Working Lives offers insight, inspiration and a reminder that no two career journeys are the same.
Episodes
13 episodes
S02 E06 | Full Circle: Mark Smith’s Journey at Ada College
In this episode of the Inspiring Working Lives podcast, we sit down with Mark Smith, who went from being one of Ada College’s first students to now shaping its programs as part of the staff team. Mark shares his journey of growth, resilience, a...
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Season 2
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Episode 6
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1:02:19
S02 E05 | More Minds, More Impact: Ellen Broomé on Breaking Barriers
From navigating the responsibility of CEO leadership to challenging inequality in access to dyslexia diagnosis, Ellen Broomé shares the lessons that have shaped her journey. She reflects on resilience, strong networks and backing yourself — and...
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Season 2
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Episode 5
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45:21
S02 E04 | Vision and Vulnerability: Anna Feuchtwang on Modern CEO Leadership
In this episode of Inspiring Working Lives, Anna Feuchtwang reflects on leading the National Children’s Bureau through challenge and change. From rebuilding a demoralised organisation to amplifying children’s voices and confronting rising inequ...
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Season 2
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Episode 4
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42:36
S02 E03 | From Support to Strategy: Janet Curtis-Broni on Leading with Vision
In this episode of Inspiring Working Lives, we sit down with Janet Curtis-Broni, Group Chief People Officer at Elevare Civic Education Group, she shares how...
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Season 2
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Episode 3
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37:09
S02 E02 | Pivoting with Purpose: Genevieve Edwards on Leading Bowel Cancer UK
In this episode, Genevieve Edwards, Chief Executive of Bowel Cancer UK, shares her journey into leadership and the lessons she’s learned along the way. From navigating the challenges of COVID-19 to expanding opportunities for talent across the ...
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Season 2
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Episode 2
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1:04:27
S02 E01 | Ashley Whittaker: From Profit to Purpose - A Leadership Journey
The Isle of Wight may look idyllic, but for Ashley Whittaker, leadership in children’s services is about navigating complexity with purpose. He shares what it really takes to lead, adapt, and work within the realities of Island life and childre...
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Season 2
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Episode 1
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50:08
S01 E07 | From Classrooms to Change-Maker: Shelagh Legrave’s Story
From the classroom to the boardroom, Shelagh Legrave, Further Education Commissioner, has navigated education with vision, resilience, and a human touch. In this episode, she talks about the challenges and joys of leading in complex institution...
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Season 1
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Episode 8
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54:27
S01 E06 | A Bricklayer in a Shirt and Tie: Jamie Purser’ Path to Authentic Leadership
From leaving school at 16 with no qualifications to leading Newham College London, Jamie Purser’ journey is one of resilience, self-belief, and the power of encouragement. In this episode, Jamie shares how a bricklaying job set him on a path to...
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Season 1
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Episode 7
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45:51
S01 E05 | In the Saddle of Leadership: Angela Joyce on Authenticity and Ambition
In this episode of the Inspiring Working Lives podcast, Dan Taylor sits down with Angela Joyce, CEO of Capital City College, London’s largest further education provider. Angela shares her journey from teaching ...
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Season 1
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Episode 6
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47:52
S01 E04 | Dream Bigger: Julie Kapsalis’ Path to Making a Difference
In this episode of Inspiring Working Lives, we sit down with Julie Kapsalis, Principal and Chief Executive of North East Surrey College of Technology (Nescot). Julie shares her journey in leadership and the experiences that shaped her app...
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Season 1
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Episode 4
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45:05
S01 E03 | Persistence and Purpose: Gerry McDonald’s Journey in Education and Leadership
In this episode of Inspiring Working Lives, we sit down with Gerry McDonald, Group Principal and Chief Executive Officer of New City College (NCC), to explore his journey of transformation, leadership, and organisational impact. From navigating...
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Season 1
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Episode 3
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51:21
S01 E02 | Opening Doors: Liz Bromley’s Reflections on Mentorship and Opportunities
In this episode of Inspiring Working Lives, we sit down with Liz Bromley, Chief Executive of Newcastle College Group (NCG), to explore the pivotal role of education, mentorship, and opportunity in shaping careers. From her unexpected path...
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Season 1
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Episode 2
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35:18
S01 E01 | Rising Above: Denise Brown’s Journey and the Role of Further Education
In this episode of the Inspiring Working Lives podcast, we sit down with Denise Brown, Group Chief Executive of South Essex College Group. From her childhood in a children’s home to leading one of the largest FE colleges in the country, D...
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Season 1
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Episode 1
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40:30