This is the Leadership Journey series on the Choosing Leadership Podcast.

I believe we all have a lot to learn from each other's stories - of where we started, where we are now, and our successes and struggles on the way. With this series of interviews, my attempt is to give leaders an opportunity to share their stories and for all of us to learn from their generous sharing. If you know a leader whom you would like to see celebrated on the show, please send me a message on LinkedIn with their name.

In this captivating episode, Steven, Founder and Global Community Director of Race in STEM, shares his remarkable journey from a world-touring musician to a pioneering advocate for diversity in STEM fields.

Steven’s story is filled with inspiring pivots, resilience, and the courage to embrace change, offering valuable insights for leaders facing their own professional challenges.

Discover how he navigated career shifts, the impact of the Black Lives Matter movement on his mission, and the lessons in humility and adaptability he's learned along the way.

Hear about the tangible impact of Race in STEM, including uplifting underrepresented voices to new heights.

Tune in for an engaging conversation that blends personal growth with professional wisdom, perfect for any leader looking to make a meaningful difference.

You can find Steven Fuller at the below links

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevenfullerpc/
• https://www.biotalent.com/race-in-stem

In the interview, Steven shares

• "Steven's story is a testament to the value of resilience and the ability to pivot in the face of change."
• "Steven began his career as a full-time musician, mastering the piano, violin, and trombone, and even studying jazz at the prestigious Trinity College of Music in London."
• "His musical career was a glamorous one, filled with global tours, pop stars, and top-charting hits."
• "However, the financial crisis of 2009 forced Steven to rethink his path. Seeking security, he retrained as a music teacher at Warwick University."
• "After seven years, he realized that education wasn't his calling either and took another leap of faith into the life sciences industry through a fortuitous meeting with a sales manager."
• "The impact of the Black Lives Matter movement during the pandemic urged Steven to address the systemic discrimination he had experienced in all his previous careers."
• "Race in STEM is dedicated to increasing representation for people of color and those from different cultural backgrounds in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM)."
• "Steven shared an inspiring example of a Sikh MHRA inspector from the UK who, after being featured on his podcast, was invited to be a keynote speaker by the Sikh Society of Clinical Trials in America."
• "Steven’s career transitions have taught him crucial lessons in humility and adaptability, emphasizing the importance of being willing to start from the bottom and work your way up whenever you pivot into a new field."
• "Steven draws parallels between his music career and his current roles, noting that just as musicians rehearse rigorously before a performance, professionals must constantly practice and refine their skills."

This is the Leadership Journey series on the Choosing Leadership Podcast.

I believe we all have a lot to learn from each other's stories - of where we started, where we are now, and our successes and struggles on the way. With this series of interviews, my attempt is to give leaders an opportunity to share their stories and for all of us to learn from their generous sharing. If you know a leader whom you would like to see celebrated on the show, please send me a message on LinkedIn with their name.

In this episode, Carina Bauer, CEO of the IMEX Group, shares her incredible journey from growing up in an entrepreneurial household to leading one of the largest global trade shows in the business events industry.

Carina dives into the art of learning from mistakes, the importance of nurturing talent, and how strategic thinking has propelled her company's success.

Discover how IMEX is making a meaningful impact on its industry and the communities it serves, and gain insights on managing growth and overcoming challenges.

Carina also reveals her personal strategies for staying balanced and energized, including how rock climbing helps her tackle business puzzles.

Tune in for an inspiring conversation packed with valuable leadership lessons and practical advice.

You can find Carina Bauer at the below links

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/carina-bauer17/
• https://imexevents.com/

In the interview, Carina shares

• "Growing up in an entrepreneurial household taught me the value of learning through experience and the freedom to make mistakes."
• "In business, wisdom often comes from making mistakes and experimenting."
• "The last 20 years at IMEX have been an intense MBA of their own!"
• "Leadership and management aren't just learned—they're practiced and refined through experience."
• "Our goal is to serve our niche sector better each time, making meaningful contributions through our events, research, and community support."
• "We aim to leverage events to positively impact the destinations they are held in, from attracting investment to leaving a positive local legacy."
• "Growing from zero to 80 people has brought different challenges at each stage, particularly in developing our team and ensuring robust succession planning."
• "Investing in technology and data analytics skills is crucial for us to better leverage opportunities and improve efficiency."
• "My strengths include strategic thinking, critical thinking skills, and being a people-focused leader. However, learning to delegate is essential as the organization grows."
• "Rock climbing helps me solve business puzzles and maintain a balanced perspective, thanks to the endorphin rush and mental clarity it provides."

This is the Leadership Journey series on the Choosing Leadership Podcast.

I believe we all have a lot to learn from each other's stories - of where we started, where we are now, and our successes and struggles on the way. With this series of interviews, my attempt is to give leaders an opportunity to share their stories and for all of us to learn from their generous sharing. If you know a leader whom you would like to see celebrated on the show, please send me a message on LinkedIn with their name.

Join us as Kiran, Founding Partner and MD at hy:Tech & Consulting, shares insights from her transformative 24-year journey in HR and her bold leap into entrepreneurship.

Discover the power of adaptability and situational leadership in navigating professional challenges.

Kiran’s candid reflections on building trust and credibility will resonate with leaders aiming to make a lasting impact.

Learn how embracing vulnerability and persistence can drive success in both corporate and entrepreneurial ventures.

This conversation is packed with valuable lessons and inspiring stories that will elevate your leadership approach.

You can find Kiran Lal at the below links

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/kiranlal/
• kiran@hytechconsulting.com

In the interview, Kiran shares

• "After 24 years in HR, I’ve moved from the corporate world to entrepreneurship, and I’m thoroughly enjoying this new phase of my journey."
• "I come from a family of doctors, but my path led me to HR, a field I’ve grown to love and excel in over the years."
• "Adaptability is key in both professional and personal growth. It’s helped me immensely throughout my career and now as an entrepreneur."
• "In leadership, situational adaptability is crucial. Tailoring your approach to the situation and individual makes all the difference."
• "Starting my own business was about leaving a legacy and making a significant impact across multiple organizations and employees."
• "Building credibility as a leader is all about consistent actions and trust-building over time."
• "It’s okay to be vulnerable and open up about your limitations. People appreciate transparency and authenticity."
• "Persistence and not taking things personally are essential for any entrepreneur facing the highs and lows of the journey."
• "Staying grounded is crucial. My family has been my biggest stabilizing factor, keeping me focused and balanced."
• "Marrying the knowledge of yesteryears with the opportunities of tomorrow is our mission at hy: Tech & Consulting, aiming for a better future for organizations and employees alike."