In today’s episode, we dive deep into the transformative journey of Jessica Hickman, a remarkable force in the realm of workplace culture and business success. Jessica, who now calls Orange home, originally hails from Wales and has spent the past decade working with businesses across Australia, helping leaders foster positive change and development.

Jessica is the founder of Bullyology and The Upstand Academy, where she has been at the forefront of driving change through professional development, education, and advocacy. Her work has taken her around the globe, delivering impactful training and keynote presentations in the USA, Canada, New Zealand, and the UK. She's also a published author with two influential books to her name: Bullyology: Breaking the Silence on Bullying and The Upstander Leader: How to Develop a Speak-Up Culture.

We delve into Jessica’s motivation behind starting Bullyology and how her personal experiences with workplace bullying led her to create a business that shines a light on toxic behaviours and promotes thriving, supportive workplaces. We’ll explore her most memorable moments, including the launch of her second book, and the extensive research she’s conducted to develop her unique methodologies.

Jessica shares her insights on self-care and mental health, which are crucial aspects for anyone juggling the demands of leadership. She opens up about her strategies for maintaining balance, from meditation and yoga to seeking mentorship and investing in personal growth.

We also discuss the challenges female leaders face today, with Jessica offering heartfelt advice to the next generation of women in leadership. She emphasises the importance of authenticity, kindness, and leading with heart, alongside a realistic look at issues like gender-based harassment and the pervasive tall poppy syndrome in Australia.

Jessica’s journey is a testament to turning adversity into a superpower. Her mission to build a generation of upstanders and end unnecessary human suffering is nothing short of inspiring.

Visit Jess’s website, jesshickman.com, to learn more about her impactful programs and resources. Follow her on Instagram, @jessicazoehickman, for daily motivation and updates on her latest projects.

CLICK HERE to purchase her books, which are essential reads for anyone looking to foster a more inclusive and supportive workplace.

Sparking Regional Joy is a podcast produced by Downtown Magazine and Hosted by Anna Davis.

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Til next time, we spark regional joy. Thanks for listening.