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."

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, Graham Goodkind, chairman and founder of Frank PR, shares his 24-year journey of transforming the PR landscape with his innovative and entrepreneurial spirit.

Discover how Graham navigated the dot-com boom, built a distinctive brand with a frank and honest approach, and steered his company through various challenges to maintain its creative edge.

Learn valuable insights on balancing business growth with maintaining a passionate and resilient team, and why he believes in hiring youthful enthusiasm over experience.

Graham also opens up about the importance of mental well-being and his unique experiences, including a surprising stint on Baywatch.

Tune in for a candid conversation filled with leadership lessons and inspiration for anyone looking to make their mark in the creative industry.

You can find Graham Goodkind at the below links

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/goodkind/
• https://www.welcometofrank.com/

In the interview, Graham shares

• "I've always been as interested in business as I was in PR, and Frank PR is the fusion of those passions."
• "In 2000, I saw the dot-com boom as an opportunity to create a fun, innovative email service. It was the precursor to launching Frank PR."
• "From day one, Frank PR was about being down-to-earth, open, and honest in our approach—a stark contrast to the industry's perceptions at the time."
• "Managing a growing business can shift your role from being a PR expert to a problem solver for staff and operational issues, which isn't always the fun part."
• "Buying back Frank PR in 2021 was a turning point. We shifted our focus from cost maintenance to reigniting creativity and doing things differently."
• "To maintain our creative culture, we moved away from having a structured creative department and embraced a more nimble and proactive approach."
• "The challenge is to keep the hunger for the next big idea alive. Recruitment of the right people who share this passion is key."
• "Our current focus isn't growth at all costs. We choose clients who align with our disruptive and creative approach."
• "Mental resilience and a balanced approach to work are crucial. I've learned to disconnect after work hours to maintain my well-being and lead by example."
• "Most people wouldn't guess it, but I starred in an episode of Baywatch alongside Pamela Anderson and David Hasselhoff."

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 interview, Bimal, founder and CEO of Elemental Concepts, shares his remarkable journey from chartered accountant to technology consultancy trailblazer.

Discover how his experiences in mergers and acquisitions, including privatizing the Ministry of Defense's research agency, shaped his innovative approach to business.

Bimal’s insights delve deep into the importance of understanding clients’ needs, fostering transparency, and empowering diverse voices within the team.

Get ready for an inspiring conversation that showcases the power of integrity, resilience, and genuine leadership in navigating today’s complex business landscape.

Tune in and unlock invaluable lessons to fuel your own leadership journey!

You can find Bimal Shaifta at the below links

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/bimal-shah-32973517/
• https://www.elementalconcept.com/

In the interview, Bimal shares

• "We help businesses figure out if they need to use technology to solve a problem. Quite often, we end up building the solution to help their business grow and continue to maintain and improve those systems over time."
• "Starting as a chartered accountant taught me to understand what drives a business. The numbers reflect the importance of what’s behind them."
• "I worked on the privatization of the Ministry of Defense's research agency, now Kinetic, which had 9,000 scientists researching future technology."
• "Joining Nomad Digital, I learned valuable lessons on running a company and grew it to be the largest internet provider on trains worldwide, signing contracts in 14 countries."
• "One of the biggest lessons I learned was how crucial it is to have a dedicated team that shares your vision."
• "We value understanding our customer's business and identifying the return on investment metrics to measure the success of their projects."
• "Transparency is key for us. We are open with our customers and invite them to our daily standups, sharing our progress and challenges."
• "It's important for everyone in our team to have a voice, regardless of their culture or background, because diverse perspectives drive innovation."
• "We prioritize doing the right thing, even if it means losing money or a contract. Our decisions are guided by what’s best for our customers and our team."
• "A young boy's idea to create a marketplace for second-hand school uniforms inspired us to build a platform now used by 400 schools in the UK, demonstrating the power of simple, impactful solutions."

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 insightful episode, Sophie Milliken shares her journey from accidental entrepreneur to the founder of Moja, a thriving modern PR agency.

Sophie reveals the key strategies she used to navigate the male-dominated business landscape of the Northeast, offering practical advice on building confidence and embracing resilience.

You'll learn how to balance multiple responsibilities, including running a business, chairing a charity, and pursuing a PhD, all while avoiding burnout.

Discover how to effectively say no to create more meaningful opportunities and the importance of strong support networks.

Tune in for a conversation packed with valuable lessons for aspiring leaders and entrepreneurs.

You can find Sophie Milliken at the below links

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/sophie-milliken/
• sophiemilliken@thisismoja.com

In the interview, Sophie shares

• "My challenge this year is to say no to more things so that I'm not quite as busy."
• "Moja is a modern PR agency based in the North East of England. We work with entrepreneurs and corporates to raise their profiles within their industry."
• "We do lots of things around award strategy, helping clients win business awards, write books, and get on stage to speak at events."
• "I chair SmartWorks Newcastle, a charity providing education, interview clothing, and coaching for unemployed women across the Northeast."
• "I'm doing a PhD part-time at Durham University Business School, focused on female entrepreneurship."
• "I didn't set out to own a business; I'm an accidental entrepreneur. I didn't have role models in that sense, so I found my way as I went along."
• "Networking with women who were at similar points with their businesses helped me feel comfortable, share challenges, and grow my confidence."
• "I feel passionately about the Northeast of England as a place to do business. I want to promote the region and support women to realize their ambitions."
• "I think resilience is really important for any entrepreneur. You need to keep going even when things don't go as planned."
• "Last year, I felt burnt out and exhausted. I've started saying no to more things and focusing on my well-being to avoid reaching that point again."

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, we sit down with Wais, the CEO of Private Doc, who shares his fascinating journey from leading major companies like Push Doctor and Just Eat to revolutionizing the wellbeing industry.

Wais delves into the intricacies of consumer-first strategies, the profound psychological impact of beauty treatments, and the evolution of digital healthcare.

He offers valuable insights on leadership, emphasizing the importance of respecting team foundations and adapting management styles to diverse demographics.

Discover how Wais balances high-stakes business decisions with a passion for his work, treating it as a hobby rather than a stressor.

Whether you're navigating leadership challenges or seeking inspiration for your own career, this episode is packed with wisdom and practical advice.

You can find Wais Shaifta at the below links

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/wais-shaifta-5184134b/
• wais.shaifta@gmail.com

In the interview, Wais shares

• "Private Doc is transitioning from online pharmacy and prescriptions into wellbeing, with bespoke healthcare programs for both men and women. Stay tuned for our exciting expansion."
• "At Push Doctor, we served over 6 million NHS patients. Leading through COVID was fascinating and challenging."
• "I've held leadership roles at Just Eat and TreatWell, managing global operations and driving innovation in the digital space."
• "In addition to my role at Private Doc, I sit on the boards of a major gym group and Reach PLC, the largest news publisher in the UK."
• "My career has been driven by a consumer-first mindset, optimizing products and influencing consumer behavior to deliver the best experiences."
• "Treatwell taught me the profound psychological impact of beauty treatments, which was an eye-opener for me in understanding customer wellbeing."
• "Joining Push Doctor, we launched the first digital video consultations in the UK, making healthcare more accessible and immediate."
• "Leadership is about respecting the foundation built by the team and highlighting their achievements to motivate further growth."
• "As a leader, adapting my managerial style to different demographics, especially the younger generation, is a continuous learning process."
• "Work is a hobby for me. The key to managing stress is prioritizing family and keeping a balanced perspective on work challenges."

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 insightful interview, Andy Mackin, CEO and founder of the Mackin Group, shares his journey from the Irish Navy to founding a global professional organization.

With a focus on environmental health and safety consultancy, Andy discusses the pivotal moments that shaped his leadership style and the unexpected turns that led to the growth of his company.

He reflects on the importance of maintaining a positive outlook, setting achievable goals, and prioritizing personal well-being.

Join us as Andy shares his wisdom on leadership, growth, and the transformative power of changing habits.

Whether you're navigating a career shift or seeking inspiration to take your business to new heights, Andy's story offers valuable lessons for leaders at every stage.

You can find Andy Mackin at the below links

• https://www.linkedin.com/in/andymackinceo/
• http://www.mackinconsultancy.com/

In the interview, Andy shares

• "Life went on, and time went on. I've learned to live with that."
• "It probably shaped my character in terms of just having a more positive outlook in life in general and seeing the good things for what they really are."
• "It was a contrast in style for sure, but by the time my retirement came up, I probably had about four or five regular clients that I was dealing with."
• "If somebody told me we'd be where we are now 20 years ago, I would have said, 'No, you're mad.'"
• "Every year you do well, you want to improve the following year."
• "I always had a vision. I always want to ring the bell at the New York Stock Exchange. That's my North star."
• "Success for me is having a good balanced life, enjoying life, enjoying the work you're doing every morning."
• "I always had a vision and I still have it. I always want to ring the bell at the New York Stock Exchange."
• "The meditating definitely calms the brain, allows you to have a little more focus, and be clear-minded."
• "Look, if you can do this, you can get beyond just living with magic."