In this empowering episode of Frustrated and Exhausted, we get to know Seema Kisney, who shares her journey from a working-class background in the north of England to a senior digital leadership role at the Royal College of Art. Seema’s story is about building a career with no blueprint—navigating tech, leadership, and ambition without a network or roadmap.
Key Themes:
- Becoming What You Couldn't See: Seema reflects on not having visible role models in leadership or tech while growing up. Her journey is one of self-discovery, curiosity, and quietly seizing opportunities even when she didn’t feel fully prepared.
- The Power of Managers and Role Models: The episode highlights how having even one supportive manager can transform a career, helping to build confidence and open doors.
- Building Networks From Scratch: With no pre-existing network, Seema shares her practical, sometimes awkward beginnings with professional networking and how she eventually found her community through trial, error, and sharing her knowledge.
- Challenging Ambition Barriers: The conversation addresses social mobility, class background, and internalized limitations around ambition—especially common for women and people from underrepresented groups.
- Learning, Sharing, and Growing: Both guest and host discuss the importance of sharing stories and experiences so that others can see what’s possible for them too.
[00:05:52] – Seema explains making the definitive choice to leave accountancy and pursue other options.
- [00:06:41] – Seema discusses her working-class background and lack of career role models growing up.
- [00:09:17] – Seema talks about the mindset around risk and ambition in her upbringing.
- [00:10:21] – Seema discusses curiosity and her tendency to observe and learn from others.
- [00:12:54] – Seema emphasizes learning through experience and embracing new challenges.
- [00:13:34] – Seema shares experiences learning to influence and write business cases for senior audiences.
- [00:15:10] – Seema describes learning to seek feedback and prepare for high-stakes conversations.
- [00:16:19] – Seema reflects on supportive management and valuable feedback from leaders.
- [00:16:57] – Seema notes the importance of a safe space to learn and make mistakes.
- [00:18:18] – Seema reflects on managers who saw her strengths and helped her recognize her influence.
- [00:20:07] – Seema talks about learning what good management looks like by example.
- [00:21:29] – Seema sums up the power of supportive environments and role models.
- [00:22:49] – Seema describes how she started networking through events and ultimately building confidence.
- [00:23:18] – Seema describes her first experience at a tech event, feeling out of place.
- [00:24:52] – Seema elaborates on how sharing her story led to making meaningful connections.
- [00:25:53] – She explains using LinkedIn, events, and preparation to build her network.
- [00:30:58] – Seema shares practical networking and career advice—leveraging LinkedIn, events, and even creating your own networks.
- [00:31:54] – Seema expounds on starting your own group or event if you can’t find one.
- Feeling like you don’t belong or don’t have the right connections? Try reaching out to people in roles you admire, comment on their LinkedIn posts, and start attending events tailored for your interests.
- Don’t be afraid to share your story—you never know who needs to hear it.
- If you’re a leader, look for ‘hidden’ talent in your team and voice your encouragement—being told “you can do this” can be...
