Shows
The Trailblazers Experience PodcastHow A Former CEO Turned Constant Change Into A Career Superpower : Frederike Knop EP87SummaryIn this episode of the Trailblazer Experience Podcast, Frederike Knop shares her journey through the realms of change management and leadership, emphasising the importance of constant change, transparency, and empathy in business. From her early aspirations of becoming a CEO to her experiences in luxury retail and navigating the challenges of leadership, Frederike provides valuable insights for emerging leaders and advocates for women in executive roles. She discusses the significance of authenticity, the need for reinvention, and the importance of creating a supportive environment for change.TakeawaysFrederike's drive for constant change...
2025-10-2944 min
The Trailblazers Experience PodcastEP86 Leah Godfrey On Building Women’s Sport From The Ground UpIn this episode of the Trailblazer Experience, Leah Godfrey shares her inspiring journey from a diverse academic background to becoming a leader in women's sports and community building. With over 30 years of experience, Leah discusses her entrepreneurial spirit, the importance of core values, and her transition from the food industry to women's sports. She highlights her initiatives, including the Sports Bra Initiative and her work with Neurodiverse Sport, emphasizing the need for systemic change and empowerment in women's sports. Leah also shares valuable insights on leadership, creativity, and the importance of nurturing the next generation of leaders.
2025-10-2055 min
The Trailblazers Experience PodcastEP85 From Clinic to Code: Kirsten’s Digital AI Revolution building ConceivableIn this episode , Kirsten Karchmer shares her inspiring journey from running a fertility wellness clinic to founding Conceivable, a digital platform aimed at making fertility care more accessible and affordable. She discusses the importance of understanding the menstrual cycle, the role of AI in healthcare, and the need for emotional support in fertility journeys. Kirsten emphasizes the value of mentorship, the significance of trust and truth in leadership, and offers practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs in the health tech space. The conversation highlights the challenges and triumphs of building a startup while advocating for women's health and empowerment.
2025-10-1457 min
The Trailblazers Experience PodcastEP84 Shannon Watson’s How an Introvert Learned to Lead, Build Coalitions, and Make Politics More HumanWe trace Shannon Watson’s nonlinear path from theatre and psychology to public affairs, and how an introvert built a career convening people across differences. The conversation tackles invisible labour, reframing leadership as contribution, and practical ways to lower the temperature in polarised times.• early exposure to civic life through family and door‑knocking• career pivots from retail and banking to policy and lobbying• introversion, authenticity and public speaking tactics• the TEDx experience and trusting key points over scripts• founding Majority in the Middle and building the Venn diagram• creating “What We Can Do Week” and a...
2025-10-0752 min
The Trailblazers Experience PodcastEP84 Breaking the Mold: How Annabelle Built Her Career Across ContinentsAnnabelle shares her remarkable journey from shop floor assistant to global executive, revealing how she built her career across continents while staying true to her values and disrupting industry norms.• Started at Lush in 1998 on London's King's Road, rising through the ranks over 26 years• Learning to read financial accounts provided crucial insights for business strategy and market expansion• Moved to Hong Kong to revitalize the Lush business, demonstrating courage in international career movests about co-founder relationships and funding strategies• Delivered a TEDx talk on beauty industry disruption, celebrating brands that challenge conventional standard...
2025-09-291h 00
The Trailblazers Experience PodcastEP83 Sofia Panwar From Law to Lingerie: Building a Million-Pound Business Without InvestmentSofia Panwar, founder of Under Lingerie and Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree, shares her journey from corporate lawyer to building a million-pound business in just three years without external investment. Her vision to reframe lingerie as a tool for self-empowerment rather than sexualisation has resonated with thousands of women seeking to elevate their self-care routines. Chapters 00:00:00 Introduction and Sofia's Background00:03:00 The Birth of a Business Idea00:09:00 Leveraging Social Media for Growth00:15:00 The Role of Community and Feedback00:21:00 Challenges and Triumphs in Entrepreneurship00:27:00 Leadership and Team Building00:33:00 Mindset Shifts and Entrepreneurial Tips00:39:00 Tr...
2025-09-2351 min
The Trailblazers Experience PodcastEP82 From Medicine to Malbec: Dr. Laura Catena's Journey In this episode of the Trailblazers Experience Podcast, my guest Dr. Laura Catena discusses her transition from a Stanford-trained emergency physician to a renowned winemaker in the family business. She shares insights on blending science with tradition in winemaking, the importance of preserving Argentinian wine culture, and her advocacy for evidence-based insights on wine and health.Chapters00:00:00 Introduction to Dr. Laura Catena 00:03:00 Journey from Medicine to Winemaking 00:09:00 Blending Science with Tradition 00:15:00 Preserving Argentinian Wine Culture 00:21:00 The Wine First Concept 00:27:00 Mentorship and Legacy 00:33:00 Future Vision and Projects 00:59:00 Trailblazer Tips Find Dr Laura Ca...
2025-09-151h 02
The Trailblazers Experience PodcastEP81 laurine Hanquez :Finding Balance: A Female Founder's Journey in WellnessJoin us in EP81 of the Trailblazers Experience Podcast as we explore the concept of joyful health with Laurine Hanquez, co-founder of Bloma. Laurine shares her journey of creating a wellness brand that balances a vibrant social life with productivity, challenging the traditional wellness culture. Discover the importance of personalisation in wellness products and gain valuable insights from Laurine's trailblazer tips.Chapters:00:00 - Introduction 01:15 - The Concept of Joyful Health 05:30 - Starting Bloma: A Personal Journey 10:45 - Personalization in Wellness Products 15:20 - Balancing Social Life and Productivity 20:00 - Laurine's Trailblazer Tips 25:00...
2025-09-0828 min
The Trailblazers Experience PodcastEP80 Mairin Murray CEO TechFoundher : Empowering Women in Tech: Breaking Barriers and Building FuturesIn this episode of the Trailblazer Experience podcast, Mairin, the founder and CEO of Tech FoundHer, shares her journey in tech innovation and gender equity. She discusses the importance of diversity in tech, the barriers women face in entrepreneurship, and how Tech FoundHer aims to empower women through community support and visibility. Mairin emphasises the need for collective action and resilience in overcoming challenges while also highlighting the future initiatives of Tech FoundHer to create a global network of women innovators."Tech is the easy bit," Maren emphasises, challenging the notion that coding expertise is a prerequisite...
2025-08-3150 min
The Trailblazers Experience PodcastEP79 Quinn Li O'Shea Founder & CEO BRAID; Building Connection in a Disconnected WorkplaceSummaryIn this episode of the Trailblazers Experience Podcast, host Tola talks with Quinn Li O'Shea, founder and CEO of Braid, about the evolution of remote and hybrid work. They discuss the inspiration behind Braid, the importance of authentic connections in teams, and Quinn's journey through various tech companies. The conversation also touches on the challenges of fundraising, the dynamics of co-founding, and the significance of maintaining a work-life balance. Quinn shares valuable insights on communication skills, mentorship, and the future of work, including the role of AI in enhancing team connections.
2025-05-1244 minThe Trailblazers Experience PodcastEP78 Kelly Vero Author & CEO NAK3D ; Code Like a Girl: Women Shaping Modern TechEP78 Kelly Vero returns to the podcast to explore the hidden history of women in technology and her journey as a tech innovator, game developer, and author. Her latest book, "Breaking Through Bytes" uncovers remarkable female tech pioneers dating back to Ancient Egypt, challenging the narrative that women's contributions to technology.• Kelly founded Nak3d, an AI-powered digital fashion factory that reduces waste by creating items only when there's demand• Kelly's crime fiction writing has led to one of her books being developed into a TV series• Many pioneering women had fathers as their first allies and su...
2025-04-2049 minThe Trailblazers Experience PodcastEP77 Annabel Kalmar :CEO & Founder Tea Rebellion: Disrupting an Industry One Cup at a TimeEP77 Annabel our next guest, is the founder and CEO of Tea Rebellion, shares how she's disrupting the tea industry by connecting consumers directly with farmers and challenging existing practices. Her company rejects industry norms of blending and flavoring, instead treating tea like fine wine with clearly labeled origins that honor the farmers who grow it.• Agricultural roots and early passion for international development that eventually led to founding Tea Rebellion• How the traditional tea industry obscures farmer stories and keeps prices artificially low• The significance behind the name "Tea Rebellion" and its connection to repres...
2025-04-1336 minThe Trailblazers Experience PodcastEP76 Amy Anzel CEO Hollywood Browzer Beauty :From Stage Lights to Beauty InnovationsIn this Episode 76, CEO Amy Anzel , founder of Hollywood Browzer Beauty, shares her journey from entertainment to creating award-winning dermaplaners that make Hollywood beauty accessible to all. Her entrepreneurial story reveals how identifying a market gap led to developing products that empower women to take control of their beauty routines without expensive salon treatments.• From acting and theater to beauty entrepreneur after discovering dermaplaning through a celebrity makeup artist• Identified a market gap when unable to find dermaplaners in the UK after moving from the US• Transitioned to eco-friendly materials like biodegradable wheat straw in respon...
2025-03-1738 minThe Trailblazers Experience PodcastEP75 Gillian CEO Founder Peachaus From Fast Fashion to Ethical Entrepreneurship:My next guest on EP75 is Gillian Ridley Whittle CEO & Founder of Peachaus shares her journey from corporate fashion director to ethical entrepreneur , creating a brand that serves as an antidote to the destructive fast fashion system.• Founded Peachaus in March 2022 as an ethical underwear and lifestyle brand • Currently focused on revolutionizing the underwear industry by putting women first• Uses bra fitting experiences as opportunities for connection and education• Built a brand that celebrates design and craftsmanship while maintaining ethical standards• Creating a company culture that allows individuals to flourish and healChapter...
2025-03-0937 minThe Trailblazers Experience PodcastEP74 Susana CEO and Founder A Sip of Authenticity: The Mezcal JourneyA captivating journey through the world of mezcal with Susana, founder of Mezcal Arena, reveals how this traditional spirit is gaining momentum among enthusiasts. Through Susana’s personal stories and insights, we learn about mezcal's production, cultural significance, and the challenges faced in bringing an artisanal spirit to market.• Introduction of the podcast and Susana's background • Discussion about the rise of mezcal and its unique qualities • Insights into the painstaking traditional production process • Community involvement and sustainability in mezcal production • Challenges faced from regulations and market entry • Trailblazer tips for aspiring entrepreneurs Chapters0...
2025-03-0344 minThe Trailblazers Experience PodcastTakeaway Tips EP73 Mastering Entrepreneurship : Guests Rima & Morgan The Peachies BrandIn this Takeaway Tips Episode, Peachies is a bold new player in the nappies industry, founded by two female entrepreneurs, Rima & Morgan, who faced significant challenges with determination and resilience. They share valuable insights about branding, community support, and the importance of self-care in entrepreneurship. • Exploring the significance of distinct branding in a competitive market • Understanding the risks and logistics involved in launching a product • The power of community and collaboration among female founders • Practical tips for aspiring entrepreneurs based on personal experiences • Encouraging vulnerability and humility in leadership roles • Celebrating the journey and impact of nurt...
2025-02-0531 minThe Trailblazers Experience PodcastTakeaway Tips EP72 : Empowering Women in Leadership: Authentic Branding, Resilience, and Personal Growth : Guest YvetteIn this Takeaway Tips episode, Yvette shares the journey of a balance coach and highlights the importance of authenticity in personal branding and leadership. It explores themes of active listening, the power of storytelling, and the necessity of integrating health into career success.• Discusses the evolution of personal branding and authenticity in business • Emphasises the importance of active listening versus being overly communicative • Highlights the role of storytelling in empowering women in leadership • Encourages networking and outreach to find mentors • Explores future aspirations and the impact of coaching • Stresses the interconnection between health and career...
2025-02-0222 minThe Trailblazers Experience PodcastEP71 Rosie Bailey CEO and Co-Founder of Nibble -The Art of Negotiation Rosie's Transformative Career PathHow do you transform mathematical prowess into groundbreaking entrepreneurship? Rosie Bailey, the dynamic CEO and co-founder of Nibble, an innovative AI negotiation tool, joins us to share her remarkable journey from the world of mathematics and investment banking to trailblazing in tech. Rosie's story is a testament to the power of seizing opportunities, working with dedication, and strategically utilizing one's strengths to navigate bold career transitions. She opens up about the motivations and challenges that propelled her from a structured banking career to the unpredictable, yet rewarding, world of tech startups.Chapters00:00 Introduction to Rosie Bailey...
2025-01-1358 minThe Trailblazers Experience PodcastEP70 Michaela Weber: SVP & GM BigCommerce - Empowering Women, and Building Resilience Through Unexpected Career TwistsIn this episode of the Trailblazers Experience podcast, Michaela Weber shares her remarkable career journey from her early years in Cape Cod to becoming the SVP & GM at BigCommerce. She discusses the importance of networking, navigating the financial crisis, and her transition into the FinTech and payments industry. Michaela emphasizes the significance of being open to new opportunities, the challenges of working in a global environment, and the need for women to empower each other in business. She also shares insights on finding balance in a demanding career and offers key takeaways for career growth.Michaela...
2025-01-0644 minThe Trailblazers Experience PodcastEP69 Brie Reid: Founder & CEO of SNAG - Building a £40M Inclusive Fashion business with Entrepreneurial Spirit & VisionJoin me for an inspiring conversation with Brie Reid, the visionary founder and CEO of Snag. Discover how her personal experience with uncomfortable tights led to a complete transformation in the fashion industry, starting with a simple survey of 3,000 people and growing into an ethical and size-inclusive clothing brand. Brie's journey from a marketing background to creating a product she truly believes in underscores the entrepreneurial spirit and highlights the importance of listening to customer needs. The episode ends with an inspiring discussion on potential customer ownership, echoing the community-driven success of BrewDog, and emphasizes the importance of b...
2024-12-1654 minThe Trailblazers Experience PodcastEP68 Yvette Janse van Rensburg: Consultant & Leadership Coach - Building Future Leaders with the 1% MindsetEver wondered how an unplanned journey could lead to a thriving career? Join us as we sit down with the incredible Yvette Janse van Rensburg, a master talent manager consultant and leadership coach, whose unexpected path from South Africa to the UK unfolds like a captivating novel. Originally meant to be a short stint abroad, Yvette's journey evolved into a nearly 20-year exploration of recruitment, human resources, and talent management. . Our conversation ends with a focus on the future, including the aspiration to create "corporate athletes" and a checklist for seeking mentorship. Tune in for a rich tapestry of...
2024-11-2548 minThe Trailblazers Experience PodcastEP67 Tash Courtenay Smith : Serial Entrepreneur , Investor & Founder of Biz Kids: Empowering the Next Generation Through Entrepreneurship & Financial LiteracyEP67 Our next guest is Tash Courtenay Smith Entrepreneur , Investor , Author and Founder of Biz Kids Unleash the secrets of entrepreneurial success with Tash Courtenay Smith, a former health journalist turned dynamic entrepreneur and founder of Biz Kids. In our latest episode, Tash shares her exhilarating journey from aspiring to join the police force to revolutionizing children's education on TikTok. Her story is filled with pivotal moments that led her to embrace entrepreneurship, offering insights on balancing career ambitions with parenting, and the societal pressures women face in seeking work-life harmony.Finally, Tash delves into her passion...
2024-11-181h 05The Trailblazers Experience PodcastEP 66 Jade Sammour CEO & Founder Dainty London Jewellery : My Entrepreneurship Journey & Building a Family LegacyEP66 Jade Sammour Founder and CEO Dainty London In this episode of the Trailblazers Experience, Jade Sammour shares her inspiring journey from being a children's heart transplant specialist to founding her own jewellery brand, Dainty London. She discusses the challenges of entrepreneurship, the importance of networking, and how she balances motherhood with running a business. Jade emphasizes the value of mentorship, the power of creativity, and the significance of building a community around her brand. Her story is a testament to resilience, adaptability, and the pursuit of passion in the face of adversity.Her journey is a t...
2024-11-1158 minThe Trailblazers Experience PodcastEP65 Nyeji Mhango , Founder wCap, Unlocking Potential: Empowering Women Entrepreneurs in Developing MarketsEver wondered how a business can not only thrive but also empower others? Join us on the Trailblazers Experience podcast as we welcome Nyeji Mhango, the inspiring founder of wCAP Investments. With over two decades in corporate finance, Nyeji has been a beacon of change in Southern Africa, advocating for climate finance and gender lens investing. Her profound journey from corporate finance to working with the Zambian government reveals the power of resilience and vision. Learn how her strategic moves and diplomatic roles opened up new pathways for educational and professional growth, setting the stage for her impactful work...
2024-10-2851 minThe Trailblazers Experience PodcastEP64 Sairan Aqrawi: From Engineer to Empowerment Coach - Mastering Time, Personal Branding, and Breaking Boundaries for Midlife SuccessEP64 Our next Guest is Sairan Aqrawi ,Engineer , Speaker ,Author and Coach In this episode of the Trailblazer Experience podcast, Sairan Aqrawi shares her inspiring journey from being an immigrant engineer to a successful business coach. She discusses the challenges of pursuing the American dream, the importance of transferable skills, and the balance between emotional intelligence and technical expertise. Sairan emphasizes the significance of authenticity, mastery, and continuous practice in both coaching and public speaking. She encourages listeners to find their hidden talents and to be committed to their goals, while also sharing her aspirations for global impact...
2024-10-2154 min