In this engaging conversation, Grace McNamara hosts Pinky Ghadiali and David Stalker to discuss their career journeys, the importance of mentorship and sponsorship, and the challenges women face in leadership roles, particularly in the sports and fitness industry. They explore how sports can foster leadership skills, the need for gender balance in leadership positions, and the significance of visibility for women leaders. The discussion emphasises collaboration over competition in achieving gender equality and highlights the importance of coaching and support for career development.
🤝 Meet Our Guests:
Pinky Ghadiali: Founder of Netwomen and Inclusive Leadership Coach
David Stalker: Board Member, Advisor, and Longstanding Industry Leader
đź’Ľ Key Takeaways:
Why mentorship, sponsorship, and coaching must be clearly defined and equally valued
How sport builds resilience, confidence, and leadership—especially for women
The value of mixed-gender support networks and breaking the “Golden Girls” board quota trap
Why inclusive leadership is not a zero-sum game and how Gen Z perceptions are shifting
The challenges of moving from green-flag enthusiasm to real budget commitments in DEI
đź“Ł Quotes To Remember:
“You get away with saying a lot of the wrong things when you go past 60. I’m trying not to, but I still do.” David Stalker (07:44)
“It’s not competition. It’s collaboration. Getting more women to the top doesn’t mean men lose out.” Pinky Ghadiali (41:49)
“Leadership coaching should happen before you reach the top. Not after.” — Grace McNamara (28:41)
Shout-outs:
Jessica Yarmey – https://www.linkedin.com/in/jessicayarmey/
Chloe Kitsch – https://www.linkedin.com/in/chloe-stone/
Tara Dillon – https://www.linkedin.com/in/tara-dillon-fcimspa-ch-8706925/
Sarah Watts – https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-watts-248b931/
Claire Rollins – https://www.linkedin.com/in/claire-rollins-70513918/
Rebecca Passmore – https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebeccapassmore/
Rachel Young – https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-young-bsc-0b89053/
Shadan Alsagri- https://www.linkedin.com/in/shadanalsagri/
