In this inspiring episode of The Heald Approach Podcast, our host Rebecca sits down with Vanessa Norwood, an influential leader in the built environment and a trailblazer in sustainability. Vanessa opens up about her inspiring journey, starting with the inception of her own consultancy. She reflects on the unique challenges and successes she has encountered as a woman in a predominantly male industry, emphasising the power and importance of women supporting each other through networking and mentorship.
Vanessa passionately discusses the ongoing stigma that women face in male-dominated fields and underscores the transformative potential of women championing one another. As the conversation unfolds, Vanessa shifts focus to a topic close to her heart: sustainability. She delves into its vital role in the built environment and advocates for its increased presence in educational curriculums, sharing her optimism about the future generations who are currently being inspired by new educational initiatives.
Further enriching the discussion, Vanessa recounts personal experiences that highlight practical approaches to sustainability, like carrying a pair of sustainable shoes around London to reduce her carbon footprint. She shares heartfelt stories of visiting schools with the Building Centre, where children displayed a surprisingly deep understanding of architectural concepts, sparking hope for a more sustainable and aware generation.
As the episode nears its conclusion, Vanessa speaks candidly about the importance of taking time for contemplation. She reflects on her own experiences of slowing down and the profound impact this has had on her productivity and creativity, urging listeners to embrace a balanced approach to their careers and personal lives. This segues into a broader conversation about maintaining one's feminine power in challenging environments and the collective need to step into our roles with confidence and grace.
Vanessa also provides details on how listeners can connect with her through her website, VanessaNorwood.com, and her social media platforms. As the episode wraps up, Rebecca encourages listeners to share the podcast and leave a five-star review if they found the conversation as enlightening as she did.
A big thank you goes out to Vanessa Norwood for her invaluable insights and to all the listeners who tuned in. This episode not only sheds light on critical issues but also celebrates the progress and potential within the built environment and beyond.
