What's improved the lived experience of women in the Armed Forces over the last two decades? Warrant Officer Sim Rezazadeh-Wilson knows and she's pushing for more longer term change. Sim is a Royal Air Force Logistics Movement specialist.  She is the Deputy Advocate for the RAF’s Gender Network and she's on the committee of the Healing Military Minds fund raising machine. Proud of her Persian ancestry and her 22 years of service in the RAF, here she reflects on the importance of positivity and her drive to be a better person than the day before.  It's clear she's got commitment and passion in abundance.  She's also motivated by making other people’s lives better, empowering junior women and she reminds us that everyone’s voice matters – even if you don’t have a “big badge”. Join Sim and Lindsay as they discuss encouraging quotations, brilliant books and the importance of challenging respectfully. We’d love to hear your thoughts at [email protected]  Thank you for listening and take care until next time!  Quotations: “If you don’t know your purpose, follow your passion.” – Jennifer Lee “There’s a special place in hell for women who don’t support other women” – Madeleine Albright  Books Referenced: “Leading Gracefully” Monique Svazlian Tallon “Positive Vibes” by Vex King Other Articles mentioned by Sim: Kate Winslet interviews about women’s appearances: bbc.co.uk/news/articles/c05jr43dejjoFollow Sim: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sim-rezazadeh-wilsonInstagram:  instagram.com/sim_rezazadeh/ X:  twitter.com/SimRezazadehFollow Lindsay:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lindsay-macduff  X: twitter.com/Scruff4284 BFBS Creative is an award-winning, non-profit, creative agency. We specialise in helping the Armed Forces, Defence and government tell their story. Learn more about us: creative.bfbs.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Reverend (Group Captain) Ruth Hake is the Royal Air Force’s Deputy Chaplain in Chief. Here she shares her remarkable journey to becoming a Royal Air Force padre; not least her reticence to be a vicar. Ruth discusses the unique role of chaplains in the Armed Forces and their vital work to provide pastoral and spiritual support.   Ruth reflects on the value of appropriate vulnerability; something that Gemma Morgan also discussed in Episode 6 (“Captain Morgan’s lost her marbles” Link below). She discusses culture change, the difficulty of challenge and how best to do this. Finally, Ruth reminds us to think about how we make our people feel and the impact and power of an apology. Join Ruth and Lindsay MacDuff as they ruminate on leading well with care and compassion. We’d love to hear your thoughts at [email protected]  Thank you for listening and take care until next time!Listen to episode 6 with Gemma Morgan on Apple Podcasts: podcasts.apple.com and Spotify:open.spotify.com/episode  Follow Lindsay:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lindsay-macduff  X: twitter.com/Scruff4284 BFBS Creative is an award-winning, non-profit, creative agency. We specialise in helping the Armed Forces, Defence and government tell their story. Learn more about us: creative.bfbs.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Tim “Grimmers” Grimley is a Captain in the Royal Navy who unexpectedly became the Lead Ally to the Naval Servicewomen’s Network, a role which has opened his eyes to the experience of women in the Armed Forces.From ill-fitting kit to poor supplies of period products, Grimmers is always keen to learn about the difficulties servicewomen are faced with and how they impact combat effectiveness.He tells Lindsay MacDuff why it's important for leaders to have courageous conversations.Grimmers is completely committed to encouraging men to lead organisational culture change. He stresses that leaders at every rank and grade have a part to play in changing culture. He's also got some top tips for how to be a better male ally.We’d love to hear your thoughts at [email protected]  Thank you for listening and take care until next time! Grimmers mentions a previous episode of this podcast feauturing Steve Prest - you can listen here:Spotify: open.spotify.comApple: podcasts.apple.comQuotations: “Until the observers are punished as severely as those who perpetrate the crimes, the culture will never change” – Anonymous women in Army evidence to HCDC Women in the Armed Forces Report (https://committees.parliament.uk/writtenevidence/125890/pdf/) Books Referenced: “Invisible Women” by Caroline Criado Perez “The Accidental Sexist” Gary Ford, Stephen Koch and Dr Jill Armstrong (https://www.theaccidentalsexist.com/) Follow Lindsay:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lindsay-macduff  X: twitter.com/Scruff4284 BFBS Creative is an award-winning, non-profit, creative agency. We specialise in helping the Armed Forces, Defence and government tell their story. Learn more about us: creative.bfbs.com  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Olympian, Doctor and Army Reservist, Dr Kerenza Bryson’s achievements are super impressive.This year she's been a full-time Modern Pentathlete. She is the current European champion and represented Team GB at the Olympic Games in Paris.Alongside elite sport, she is a qualified doctor and an officer in the British Army Reserve. Evidently Kerenza has all the necessary qualities to succeed in elite sport. However, her choice to be a doctor shows she has empathy and compassion. Furthermore, her service as an Army officer shows her time management and ability to balance multiple concurrent commitments is remarkable. Kerenza gives great insights into the opportunities and challenges she faces. She discusses the hard realities of chasing Olympic medals, pursuing her medical career and having friendships.   Join Lindsay MacDuff as he asks Kerenza to reflect on her sacrifice and rewards and hear how she remains remarkably grounded, helping her identify what matters most. We’d love to hear your thoughts at [email protected]  Thank you for listening and take care until next time! Quotations: “You can have it all, just not all at the same time” (Betty Friedan) “Do not go where the path may lead, go instead where there is no path and leave a trail.” (Ralph Waldo Emerson)Follow Kerenza: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/kerenzabrysonInstagram: instagram.com/kerenza.brysonFollow Lindsay:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lindsay-macduff  X: twitter.com/Scruff4284 BFBS Creative is an award-winning, non-profit, creative agency. We specialise in helping the Armed Forces, Defence and government tell their story. Learn more about us: creative.bfbs.com  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lieutenant General Richard Nugee served for 36 years in the Army and in the Ministry of Defence. He spent many years on operations and he specialised in the people space; finishing as Chief of Defence People. He also led a review into climate change policy and sustainability in the Ministry of Defence.Richard’s knowledge and understanding of effective leadership and culture change has developed over years of thoughtful service. He reflects on the importance of striking the balance between leading with confidence and arrogance. Richard also recognises the critical leadership trait of humility and keeping his feet on the ground; particularly when given the privilege of commanding service personnel. His mantra, developed in the early years of his career, became improving the lot of his soldiers. He explains the importance of leaders saying, “I don’t know” to create innovative solutions and establishing the conditions for all team members to feel valued. Since leaving the MOD Richard is a Strategic Advisor, Patron, Non-Executive Director, Mentor, Chair and Trustee of several organisations and charities as well as Chief Executive of the Scar Free Foundation. We’d love to hear your thoughts at [email protected]  Thank you for listening and take care until next time! Follow Richard: LinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/richard-nugeeX: https://twitter.com/RNugee Follow Lindsay:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lindsay-macduff  X: https://twitter.com/Scruff4284 BFBS Creative is an award-winning, non-profit, creative agency. We specialise in helping the Armed Forces, Defence and government tell their story. Learn more about us: creative.bfbs.com  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Toni Harding is an Aeronautical Engineer in the Royal Navy. She is a STEM Ambassador, mentor and works with the United Kingdom’s Armed Forces rugby team – often wearing leopard print heels! She is a thoughtful, energetic, positive disruptor who, after only four jobs in the Royal Navy, has been making big waves.  Toni has oceans of moral courage and strongly believes that good things happen when you do the right thing. Toni learnt early on the power of role modelling and how you can change culture with just one action.  She discusses the impact of having courageous conversations - it empowers others to step up and bring the best version of themselves to work. Join Toni as she shares her incisive insights that get beyond what you can see.  Take up her challenge for all leaders to get out of your comfort zone so that others can get into theirs! We’d love to hear your thoughts at [email protected]  Thank you for listening and take care until next time! Toni enjoyed Rosie Wild's episode of The Culture Colonel, listen here: On Spotify: open.spotify.com/episode/52hFHoHFum5rhk8X4UkVCnsi=ErGNq47dTvStcES17dF2wwOn Apple: apple.com/gb/podcast/to-all-the-women-who-came-before-me-with-rosie-wild/id1762448342?i=1000666053091Quotations: “Those who bring the sunshine to the lives of others, cannot keep it from themselves” J M BarrieFollow Toni: LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/toni-h-b0b03a50/ Instagram:  https://www.instagram.com/wafu_wonders/ Toni’s “Carried Away” Blogs:  https://timeforthirtyfive.wordpress.com/ X:  https://twitter.com/wafuwondersFollow Lindsay:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lindsay-macduff  X: https://twitter.com/Scruff4284 BFBS Creative is an award-winning, non-profit, creative agency. We specialise in helping the Armed Forces, Defence and government tell their story. Learn more about us: creative.bfbs.com  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Nick Wood’s military service was dominated by 20 years of operations and defined by the privilege of leading, and following, remarkable people.  His transition out of the Army coincided with Covid which complicating the challenge of landing well. Now he is leading differently in professional services. Nick reflects on the honour of leading and the importance of learning from everyone in the team.  His extensive experience enables him to talk with confidence about the need for nurturing, coaching, training, developing and mentoring people to empower them to be the best they can be.  Nick also talks about how amateur dramatics helped him settle into life beyond uniform. Join Lindsay MacDuff and Nick Wood as they discuss the qualities of inspiring leaders.What were your challenges when leaving service? Email us at [email protected] And if you know someone making the transition out of the armed forces, do send them this episode. Thank you for listening and take care until next time! Quotations: “Things are never as good, or as bad, as first thought” (Anon) “True leadership stems from individuality that is honestly and sometimes imperfectly expressed.  Leaders should strive for authenticity over perfection.” (Sheryl Sandberg) Follow Nick Wood: LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/nick-wood/Follow Lindsay:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lindsay-macduff  X: https://twitter.com/Scruff4284 BFBS Creative is an award-winning, non-profit, creative agency. We specialise in helping the Armed Forces, Defence and government tell their story. Learn more about us: creative.bfbs.com  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Former England netballer Major Jo Vann is a Regimental Second in Command in the Army Air Corps. She's also a coach, inspirational speaker and entrepreneur.Jo tells Lindsay how sport and teamwork has enriched her life. She revels in creating cohesive teams and recognises the importance of celebrating and valuing difference – in elite sport and in the Army. Jo radiates positivity in spite of experiencing setbacks. She discusses mental resilience and the benefits of striving to create high performing teams. Her coaching expertise offers us incisive insights into what creates good culture and how to get the best from everyone in your team. Join Lindsay MacDuff’s conversation with Jo to hear about her desire, and responsibility, to pass on what was given to her; this is where she finds the richest rewards.If you have enjoyed this episode you may also like this one: To all the women who came before me - With Rosie WildSpotify: https://open.spotify.com/episode/52hFHoHFum5rhk8X4UkVCn?si=5vZC9-_vRoW-hHM1ymrdswApple: https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/to-all-the-women-who-came-before-me-with-rosie-wild/id1762448342?i=1000666053091We’d love to hear your thoughts at [email protected]  Thank you for listening and take care until next time!Articles about Jo: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/netball/50422585 Follow Jo: LinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/joanna-vann/ Instagram: instagram.com/joannamvann/X: x.com/j6vannArticles about Jo: bbc.co.uk/sport/netball/50422585 Follow Lindsay:LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lindsay-macduff  X: https://twitter.com/Scruff4284 BFBS Creative is an award-winning, non-profit, creative agency. We specialise in helping the Armed Forces, Defence and government tell their story. If you want to learn more about us – visit our website: creative.bfbs.com/    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Dr Balissa Greene is an award winning organisational psychologist with substantial leadership experience in large complex organisations. Her focus is on diversity, inclusion and culture change. Balissa's knowledge and experience of the British Army is profound. Furthermore, her thought leadership is impressive. Her wisdom and commitment to evidence based decision making also recognises the importance of people’s lived experience. She believes coaching is about creating support and space to reflect and think. It also helps deepen effective and inclusive leadership. Balissa explains how organisational culture is about the things are valued and this drives particular types of behaviour. Join Lindsay MacDuff’s conversation with Balissa to learn about the imperative to consider intersectionality and how you can help enable authenticity and high performance in your team.We’d love to hear your thoughts at [email protected]   Quotations: “You are what you promote” (Aidan Halligan) “Every wind is an ill wind if you don’t know which port you are sailing to” (Seneca) “The truth is that none of us can be free unless all of us are free” (attributed to Maya Angelou) “Do the best you can, until you know better and then when you know better, do better” (Brigadier Karl Harris)Resources: “Lived Experience Report” depositedpapers.parliament.uk/depositedpaper/2282933/files Why Was It So Hard To Salute Our Sisters During Black History Month 2023? medium.com/@balissagreenecoachingClosing the Progression Gap: Executive Coaches as Essential Allies in the Career Advancement of Black Women | LinkedIn Follow Balissa: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/balissagreene/ Follow Lindsay:  LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lindsay-macduff  X: https://twitter.com/Scruff4284 Thank you for listening and take care until next time! BFBS Creative is an award-winning, non-profit, creative agency. We specialise in helping the Armed Forces, Defence and government tell their story. If you want to learn more about us – visit our website: https://creative.bfbs.com/  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Victoria Kinkaid is a British Army doctor specialising in women's health. She is a qualified Human Security Advisor and co-founded the Female Genital Mutilation education project. She's also been shortlisted for a 2024 Women in Defence Award.Victoria grew up in Northern Ireland and shares how dreaming big, social justice, equality and feminism have shaped her life. She is passionate about evidence based research and is committed to improving servicewomen’s health.Here she tells Lindsay MacDuff about the power of mentoring and sponsorship, as well as the importance of lifting and supporting other women to access opportunities. Victoria is on a mission to educate and inform the use of accurate language and to help with this, she brought into the studio a crocheted vulva. Listen to hear her thoughtful reflections on whether “women can have it all” and how leaders can be more effective in enabling this. We’d love to hear your thoughts at [email protected]  Quotations: “You can have it all, just not all at the same time” (Betty Friedan) “A journey of a thousand miles, begins with a single step” – Chinese proverb Books Referenced: “Invisible Women” Caroline Criado Perez Other articles referenced by Victoria: Atherton Report:  Protecting Those Who Protect Us: Women in the Armed Forces from Recruitment to Civilian LifeWigston report: Defence_Report_Inappropriate_BehavioursDr Nighat Arif – on Menopause hellomagazine.com/healthandbeautyFollow Victoria: linkedin.com/in/dr-victoria-kinkaidx.com/vkinkaid11Listen to Victoria's Podcast "Virago Voices": podfollow.com/1518617892Follow Lindsay: linkedin.com/in/lindsay-macduff Follow BFBS Creative: (for the crochet vulva): X.com/BFBSCreativelinkedin.com/company/bfbscreative/postsBFBS Creative is an award-winning, non-profit, creative agency. We specialise in helping the Armed Forces, Defence and government tell their story. If you want to learn more about us – visit our website: https://creative.bfbs.com/ Thank you for listening and take care until next time!  Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lieutenant Colonel Damian Jenkins is the Consultant Neurologist for the Armed Forces and he is also Dean of St Hugh's College, Oxford. He was awarded the MBE for transformational leadership and the professionalisation of the Army's LGBT+ Network. Damian considers learning and leading with compassion, challenge and drive. He reminds us that leadership styles vary, but that removing obstacles from other people’s paths is a constant leadership attribute. He likens good leaders to trees in the rainforest sharing the light so that others can grow. Damian discusses the corrosive impact of bullying, harassment discrimination and the benefits of valuing difference. He recognises that huge progress has been made and that many people are thriving. He explains the importance of making time to mentor and guide others. He also sets out that there is still significant work to be done before all those serving can perform at their best. Join Lindsay MacDuff’s conversation with Damian where there is energy, lightness and laughter. You will also hear his determination that everyone should be able to access opportunities equally. We’d love to hear your thoughts at [email protected]  Thank you for listening and take care until next time! Follow Damian: linkedin.com/in/damian-jenkins-mbeFollow Lindsay: linkedin.com/in/lindsay-macduff BFBS Creative is an award-winning, non-profit, creative agency. We specialise in helping the Armed Forces, Defence and government tell their story. If you want to learn more about us – visit our website: https://creative.bfbs.com/ Email:[email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jane Oremosu and Dr Maggie Semple are hugely successful businesswomen and thought-leaders on cultural change, inclusion and ethics with a focus on leadership development and governance. They are authors of My Little Black Book: A Blacktionary, - a pocket guide to the language of race.Jane and Maggie entertain and educate in equal measure. Both are hugely successful businesswomen with extensive corporate experience and acumen. They both exude warmth, wisdom and passion. They are motivated, through purposeful work, to help and support other leaders through learning.Join host Lindsay MacDuff as they discuss importance of the language of race, how it evolves and they offer practical tips for everyone. They also consider the need for leaders to create the right space for reasonable and safe challenge. Listen as they explain their thoughts and ideas on behavioural change and the need for accountable and responsible actions by leaders at all levels.Above all Jane and Maggie radiate happiness and their brightness shines through.We’d love to hear your thoughts email [email protected] Jane and Maggie on LinkedInhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jane-oremosu-b8672411/https://www.linkedin.com/in/maggie-semple-obe-fcgi-97481997/And on X:https://twitter.com/jane_oremosuJane and Maggie's company: Professional Business Management Consultancy | I-Cubed Group | EnglandFollow Lindsay: linkedin.com/in/lindsay-macduff Quotations:“Leadership is about making others better as a result of your presence and making sure that impact lasts in your absence” – Sheryl SandbergBFBS Creative is an award-winning, non-profit, creative agency. We specialise in helping the Armed Forces, Defence and government tell their story. If you want to learn more about us – visit our website: https://creative.bfbs.com/ Email:[email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gemma Morgan recounts her journey from a promising young army officer to a survivor of severe trauma. Her book, Pink Camouflage, exposes the harsh realities she faced, including PTSD from her Kosovo deployment and a traumatic assault by a fellow soldier. Gemma shares her experiences of neglect and stigma within the military, calling for urgent cultural change and better support systems. She discusses the importance of surrounding oneself with compassionate individuals and the impact of genuine kindness during times of crisis. Now a seasoned leadership consultant, Gemma emphasizes the value of appropriate vulnerability in leadership and the need for systemic improvements in mental health support. Hosted by Lindsay MacDuff, this episode offers a deeply moving exploration of Gemma’s resilience and advocacy.Support:If you've found it particularly difficult to listen to Gemma's story, and need some support, or you know of someone who may be in need of some help, there's a list of organisations who can offer that help on our website: Audience Support | BFBSResources: The Sarah Atherton Inquiry: Protecting Those Who Protect Us: Women in the Armed Forces from Recruitment to Civilian LifeWomen in the Armed Forces Follow up - late 2023: Women in the Armed Forces: Follow-Up (2023)General Patrick Sanders excellent “It’s time to talk” video: It's time to talk by General Sir Patrick SandersFollow Gemma: linkedin.cominstagram.comx.comFollow Lindsay: linkedin.com/in/lindsay-macduff BFBS Creative is an award-winning, non-profit, creative agency. We specialise in helping the Armed Forces, Defence and government tell their story. If you want to learn more about us – visit our website: https://creative.bfbs.com/ Email:[email protected] Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fiona Blyth shares her remarkable journey from serving with the British Army to her roles as His Majesty’s Ambassador to Mongolia and working with the United Nations. Fiona reveals how embracing risks and stepping into uncertainty have shaped her professional life and leadership approach.  She reflects on the challenges and growth that come with pursuing life-changing opportunities, emphasising that while these risks may feel daunting at the time, they lead to invaluable experiences and deeper appreciation of others. Fiona’s steely determination and optimism shine through as she discusses the importance of creating high-performing teams and understanding people to get the best from them. Join Lindsay MacDuff as he explores Fiona’s extraordinary leadership journey, highlighting how facing challenges head-on can lead to profound personal and professional growth. We’d love to hear your thoughts at [email protected]  About Fiona: creative.bfbs.com/fostering-inclusivity-military Change of His Majesty’s Ambassador to Mongolia: Fiona BlythInterview With UK Ambassador to Mongolia Fiona Blyth – The DiplomatFollow Fiona Blyth: LinkedIn:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/fiona-blyth-66874753X:  x.com/FionaBlythUKFollow Lindsay MacDuff LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lindsay-macduffInstagram: instagram.com/lindsaymacduffX: x.com/Scruff4284 BFBS Creative is an award-winning, non-profit, creative agency. We specialise in helping the Armed Forces, Defence and government tell their story. Visit our website: creative.bfbs.com/ Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rabbi Samuel Landau is an Orthodox Jewish Rabbi and clinical psychologist who has recently worked with the British Army’s “Desert Rats” on cultural and behavioural change. Today he delves into the importance of traditions while highlighting the need to adapt them to fit modern society. He discusses the challenges of navigating complex issues with humour and humility, reflecting on the futility of trying to please everyone. Rabbi Samuel emphasises the power of mobilising a critical mass for meaningful change, focusing on the 50% in the uncertain middle to drive cultural shifts. He also tackles the profound impact of bullying and the importance of understanding over judgement. This episode offers a deep dive into real experiences, the power of storytelling, and the paradox of being both a clinical psychologist and a Rabbi. Join Lindsay MacDuff as he uncovers these thoughtful insights with Rabbi Samuel Landau, providing valuable lessons for anyone interested in leadership, personal growth, and societal change. We’d love to hear your thoughts at [email protected]  Thank you for listening and take care until next time! Quotations: “Tradition is peer pressure from dead people” Unattributed “Every wind is an ill wind if you don't know which port you're sailing to” – Seneca “For with you is the source of life; in your light do we see light” – (Mekor Chayim scripture) “Those that bring the sunshine to the lives of others cannot keep it from themselves.” – JM Barrie Follow Samuel: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/samuel-landauSomeone Else's Eyes https://www.someoneelseseyes.com/Follow Lindsay: linkedin.com/in/lindsay-macduff  BFBS Creative is an award-winning, non-profit, creative agency. We specialise in helping the Armed Forces, Defence and government tell their story. If you want to learn more about us – visit our website: https://creative.bfbs.com/ Please feel free to email The Culture Colonel at: [email protected]     Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Steve Prest is a recently retired Royal Navy Commodore. A leader renowned for his commitment to putting people first, Steve delves into the challenges of strategic leadership and the vital role of a growth mindset in fostering an empowering culture. He shares insights on how humility and self-confidence are crucial for rewarding team efforts and building a resilient organisation. Steve discusses the importance of preparing the next generation of leaders to surpass their predecessors, creating an environment where everyone can thrive. We explore themes of belonging, psychological safety, and the importance of finding purpose and meaningful work post-military service.What makes you feel that you belong? Email us [email protected] Quotations: “You must never confuse faith that you will prevail in the end - which you can never afford to lose - with the discipline to confront the most brutal facts of your current reality, whatever they might be.” - James Stockdale “It is better to travel hopefully than to arrive” – Robert Louis Stevenson Books Referenced: “The Infinite Game” by Simon Sinek “Good to Great” by Jim Collins “The Rules of the Game: Jutland and British Naval Command” by Andrew Gordon Steve's articles:The Case for Inclusive LeadershipMarching with PrideFollow Steve Prest: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/steveprest  Instagram: instagram.com/fightingsailorX: x.com/fightingsailor   BFBS Creative is an award-winning, non-profit, creative agency. We specialise in helping the Armed Forces, Defence and government tell their story. If you want to learn more about us – visit our website: creative.bfbs.com    Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Adam Powney—a dedicated army reservist, social media manager, and openly gay man—reveals his transformative journey from a sensitive, artistic young man unsure about fitting into the military to finding his place and thriving in an environment where he once thought he didn’t belong.  Reflecting on the advice he would give his 18-year-old self, Adam emphasises the importance of being true to who you are in the moment and not being overly concerned with others' opinions.  Listen as Lindsay MacDuff, The Culture Colonel, explores Adam's personal evolution, from the unexpected relief of coming out to the realisation that respect and mutual understanding can bridge seemingly vast differences. Adam shares the pivotal role of his values—create, serve and hope—in shaping his career and personal life, and reflects on how embracing his true self has empowered him to contribute positively both at work and in his wider community. Join Lindsay and Adam as they discuss how coming alive and being genuine can lead to a more meaningful and impactful life.What are the values that make you come alive? Let us know by emailing [email protected] If you know someone who could benefit from Adam's story, share this episode with them. Thank you for listening and take care until next time!Quotations: “Every action you take is a vote for the type of person you wish to be” - James Clear (author of Atomic Habits)  “Don't ask what the world needs. Ask yourself what makes you come alive, and go do that, because what the world needs is people who have come alive.” - Howard Thurman  “Be fearless in the pursuit of what sets your soul on fire“ - Jennifer LeeFollow Adam Powney: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/adampowneyInstagram: instagram.com/adampowneyX: x.com/adampowneyFollow Lindsay: linkedin.com/in/lindsay-macduffBFBS Creative is an award-winning, non-profit, creative agency. We specialise in helping the Armed Forces, Defence and government tell their story. If you want to learn more about us – visit our website: Creative.bfbs.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.