100 Women in Insurance

The Power of Kindness in Leadership with Sheila Cameron

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Summary
In this episode, Sheila Cameron shares her journey in insurance, discussing her career path, the importance of mentorship, and the challenges of work-life balance.
She emphasizes the need for clear boundaries and flexibility in the workplace, particularly for parents.
Sheila also addresses the issue of diversity in leadership roles and shares insights and statistics on the progress made so far vs work yet to be done.
This is a very honest conversation about leadership and diversity, giving incredible insights into what intentional leadership means for gender equality.
She emphasizes the need for leaders to create supportive environments for women, particularly during career dips and maternity.
Sheila and Sandra share practical and simple tips on how to create impactful change in your organisation to attract and retain diverse talent.
Ahead of Mother’s Day, Sheila ends the episode with a personal story, shared first time in the public domain, which may bring a tear to your eye, whilst also making you smile.
This is both an insightful and personal episode that is worth adding to your podcast playlist.
Takeaways
Leadership programs should focus on systemic change rather than fixing women.
Retention during career dips is vital for long-term success.
Recognizing weaknesses in leadership is a strength, not a flaw.
Paternity leave should be normalized and equally valued as maternity leave.
The journey towards equality in leadership roles is ongoing. Leadership intent is crucial for fostering diversity and inclusion.
Being a parent can enhance leadership qualities and perspectives.
Setting clear boundaries and transparency are key aspects of making work-life balance a success
Women are present in the talent pool but often not considered or attracted to the leadership roles.
Kindness and high performance can coexist in effective leadership.
A mindset shift is necessary to embrace both motherhood and career aspirations.
About the guest
Connect with Sheila Cameron.
About the Host
Connect with Sandra on LinkedIn and explore more insights: Sandra’s LinkedIn
Discover the 100 Women In Insurance Collective dedicated to connecting women in insurance: www.100womenininsurance.com/collective.

069: Career pivot is possible at any time, from yoga to corporate with Gillie Fairbrother.

Grab a 'Coffee with Sandra' on a fortnightly basis by signing up for her fortnightly newsletter and staying up to date on all 100WII news, Sandra's behind-the-scenes and gender equality matters.Sign up here.
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Summary
In this episode, Gillie Fairbrother shares her journey into insurance, from the creative industry, via yoga teacher around the world, to the ESG role in insurance.
Gillie shares the skills required to work in ESG and career opportunities that come with it.
Having travelled across the world teaching yoga, as well as building her own business, Gillie shares her top tips on building a network, increasing confidence in public speaking and being your true self at work (including pink hair at work post Glastonbury festival).
This episode is great for any one doubting they can pivot their career, find their niche and enjoy what they do, whilst navigating passions and side hustles outside of work.
Takeaways
Public speaking skills can be developed through practice and genuine interest in the audience.
Breathing techniques can help manage stress and improve focus.
Every career journey is unique and can lead to unexpected opportunities.
Making a difference in the industry requires a receptive leadership and a commitment to change.
Imposter syndrome is a common experience, but it can be managed.
Authenticity in the workplace fosters better relationships and engagement.
Balancing personal passions with corporate responsibilities is essential for well-being.
Networking is crucial for career growth and opportunities.
About the guest
Connect with Gillie Fairbrother.
Join Gillie at her next Sound Bath event.
About the Host
Connect with Sandra on LinkedIn and explore more insights: Sandra’s LinkedIn
Discover the 100 Women In Insurance Collective dedicated to connecting women in insurance: www.100womenininsurance.com/collective.

068: How to make the most of your career with Romany O’Malley

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Summary
In this episode Sandra interviews Romany O'Malley, discussing her journey from a corporate career to the startup world.
Romany shares insights on the importance of technology in insurance, the skills required for a CFO, and the realities of working in a startup environment.
The conversation emphasizes the need for self-reflection in career progression, the significance of understanding job expectations, and the importance of asking the right questions during interviews.
In this conversation, Romany and Sandra discuss the intricacies of the interview process, emphasizing the importance of mutual evaluation between candidates and employers.
They explore the significance of flexibility in the workplace, particularly in the context of remote work and its impact on training and networking.
The discussion also highlights the value of mentorship and the non-linear nature of career growth, especially in the insurance industry, where diverse experiences can lead to unexpected opportunities.
Takeaways
Transitioning from corporate to startup requires adaptability and quick decision-making.
A CFO's role is not just about numbers but also about strategic leadership.
Understanding the reality of a job is essential before making a career move.
Startup culture demands speed and flexibility in decision-making.
Being honest with yourself about your career goals can save frustration.
Defining success in your role is key to thriving in a company. Use interview time for questions that matter.
Flexibility in work can enhance productivity.
Mentorship is crucial for career navigation.
About the guest
Connect with Romaney O’Malley
About the Host
Connect with Sandra on LinkedIn and explore more insights: Sandra’s LinkedIn
Discover the 100 Women In Insurance Collective dedicated to connecting women in insurance: www.100womenininsurance.com/collective.

067: A Personal Journey through career, cancer and parenthood with Katie Brickell

Grab a 'Coffee with Sandra' on a fortnightly basis by signing up for her fortnightly newsletter and staying up to date on all 100WII news, Sandra's behind-the-scenes and gender equality matters.Sign up here.
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Summary
In this episode, host Sandra is in conversation with the amazing Katie Brickell.
Katie openly shares her story of navigating a succesful career, cancer and parenthood.
In every section of this episode, Katie shares practical insights and tips on how to:
turn sales negative connotation into a positive and useful skill in every aspect of our life
make equal parental leave a success in every company and team
create an inclusive space for returners to work
build an impactful Employee Resource Group (ERG)
develop a network that is full of support and opportunity, including sharing opportunities with others
Among this, Katie also shares her personal story of overcoming cervical cancer and how it shaped her perspective on work and life.
She highlights the success of the Parental Buddy Network, that recently launched at Howden.
Ultimately, the conversation underscores the importance of people in the business world and the connections that can be formed through shared experiences.
About the Guest
Connect with Katie Brickell.
About the Host
Connect with Sandra on LinkedIn and explore more insights: Sandra’s LinkedIn
Discover the 100 Women In Insurance Collective dedicated to connecting women in insurance: www.100womenininsurance.com/collective.

066: Hard work does pay off with Kate Albert

Grab a 'Coffee with Sandra' on a fortnightly basis by signing up for her fortnightly newsletter and staying up to date on all 100WII news, Sandra's behind-the-scenes and gender equality matters. Sign up here. 
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In this episode host Sandra speaks with Kate Albert about her journey in the insurance industry and her transition from corporate into a business owner.
They talk about the importance of networking and tips on how to get started.
Kate shares her insights on hard work, visibility, and the challenges of navigating hybrid work environments.
She also shares her vision for creating supportive work environments and her aspirations for growth in the insurance industry, advocating for collaboration over competition.
Kate is a fellow endometriosis warrior and openly shares her experience of living with endometriosis and working.
Kate discusses her experiences with endometriosis and its impact on her career, emphasizing the importance of flexible work arrangements and supportive workplace policies for women's health.
She highlights the need for open dialogue about women's health issues and the significance of diversity and gender balance in the workplace.
Takeaways
Hard work and visibility are crucial for career advancement.
Building a supportive network can significantly impact one's career.
Creating an inclusive culture requires open communication and listening to team members.
Hybrid working offers flexibility but requires clear expectations from leadership.
Endometriosis can significantly affect career choices and workplace experiences.
Mentorship is a two-way street that requires commitment from both parties.
Flexible work arrangements are crucial for managing chronic health issues.
There is a stigma around women's health that needs to be addressed.
Workplace policies should support women's health and well-being.
Diversity in the workplace should focus on merit and hard work, not quotas.
Collaboration among companies can lead to better growth opportunities.
About the guest
Follow Kate on LinkedIn.
About the Host
Connect with Sandra on LinkedIn and explore more insights: Sandra’s LinkedIn
Discover the 100 Women In Insurance Collective dedicated to connecting women in insurance: www.100womenininsurance.com/collective.

065: From Mail Room to Boardroom: Karen Hogg's Journey

In this episode Karen Hogg shares her inspiring journey from starting in the insurance industry as a 16 years old, to becoming the Chief Operations Officer at Freedom Group, which includes Stella Insurance - Insurance Company that offers car insurance that is passionately pro-women.
Karen discusses the importance of self-awareness, the value of diverse roles within the insurance sector, and how being proactive and visible can significantly impact one's career.
Karen also emphasizes the importance of coaching, networking, and the ability to embrace one's true self in a professional environment.
In this conversation, Karen Hogg shares her insights on the importance of building a supportive network, navigating career challenges, and the evolving landscape for women in the workforce.
She emphasizes the significance of female connections and mentorship.
Karen also discusses innovative approaches to knowledge sharing within remote organizations and reflects on her unique experiences in the industry, highlighting the value of community and collaboration.
Takeaways
It is possible to work your way up from mailroom to Boardroom.
Advice and feedback should be filtered based on the source.
Proactive involvement in projects enhances career opportunities and visibility, which is crucial for career advancement.
Networking is essential for career growth and support.
Embracing one's true self leads to greater confidence and success. Building relationships and trust is crucial for career success.
High autonomy in the workplace fosters individual success.
Female networks provide essential support and normalization of experiences.
Creating social experiences strengthens professional networks.
The talent pool for women is improving, but challenges remain.
Innovative knowledge-sharing systems can bridge talent gaps.
About the guest
Connect with Karren Hogg
About the Host
Connect with Sandra on LinkedIn and explore more insights: Sandra’s LinkedIn
Discover the 100 Women In Insurance Collective dedicated to connecting women in insurance: www.100womenininsurance.com/collective.

064: The Future of Insurance Careers: 2045 predictions with Natalie S and Eleana S

This episode is sponsored by Apollo. 
Summary
In this episode, Sandra is joined by Eleana and Natalie, as they discuss the challenges about promoting insurance as a career choice, the role of AI in our careers and predicting what the industry will be like in 2045.
The conversation continues to also reflect on the importance of flexibility, transparency, gender equality, and a human-centric approach in the evolving workplace.
Eleana and Natalie explore the challenges young women and girls face in STEM fields and highlight the importance of creating equal opportunities at the early stages.
The conversation ends on a hopeful note, envisioning a more inclusive and dynamic future in insurance by 2045.
Takeaways
STEM education still faces gender stereotypes, affecting women's participation in technical fields.
Cultural and language barriers can impact career development, especially for those moving to new countries.
AI is seen as both a threat and an opportunity, with the potential to change job roles in the future.
The future of work may involve more flexibility and remote collaboration through technology like VR.
Leadership in the future will require transparency, ethical considerations, and emotional intelligence.
Gender equality in the workplace is still a challenge, with pay transparency being a significant issue.
The guests reflect on their personal experiences and the importance of representation in the industry.
About the guests
Connect with Natalie Stephens
Connect with Eleana Sklaveniti
About the Host
Connect with Sandra on LinkedIn and explore more insights: Sandra’s LinkedIn
Discover the 100 Women In Insurance Collective dedicated to connecting women in insurance: www.100womenininsurance.com/collective.

063: The Power of Small Steps, Identity and Story Sharing in your Career with Tope Akindoyin

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Summary
In this episode of the 100 Women in Insurance podcast, Sandra and Tope Akindoyin discuss Tope's journey into the insurance industry, her career in compliance and regulatory affairs, and her insights on success and motivation.
They explore the importance of understanding personal skills, the value of small steps towards achieving goals, and the significance of sharing stories to foster connection and understanding in the workplace.
In this conversation, Sandra discusses the importance of bringing one's authentic self to work, navigating identity in professional spaces, and understanding the complexities of intersectionality and diversity.
Tope emphasizes the value of relationships in career growth and the need for emotional intelligence in interactions.
Sandra and Tope share their personal anecdotes and insights on how to foster connections and create an inclusive environment where everyone can thrive.
Takeaways
Success is personal and varies for each individual.
Success is not just about reaching a destination, but the journey itself.
Small steps lead to big changes in career progression.
Understanding your motivations is key to personal success.
Don't underestimate the skills that come easily to you.
Listening to others' stories can change perceptions and foster empathy.
Team dynamics improve when individual motivations are understood.
You don't need to share everything about yourself at work.
Intersectionality is crucial in understanding diverse identities.
Actively listening can improve workplace relationships.
Connect with Tope on LinkedIn.
About the Host
Connect with Sandra on LinkedIn and explore more insights: Sandra’s LinkedIn
Discover the 100 Women In Insurance Collective dedicated to connecting women in insurance: www.100womenininsurance.com/collective.

062: Recruitment is much more than job description with Michelle Ansell

Summary
In this episode of the 100 Women in Insurance podcast, host Sandra is joined by Michelle Ansell, an executive search and recruitment consultancy.
They discuss the evolution of sales styles, the different types of recruiters and the importance of networking.
Michelle shares insights on common myths in recruitment and emphasizes the need for women to build relationships with recruiters to enhance their career opportunities.
In this conversation, Michelle and Sandra discuss the complexities of recruitment and missed opportunity for organisations to look beyond a job description when thinking of recruitment.
Michelle shares practical tips for candidates on how to effectively engage with recruiters, develop your pitch and build meaningful professional relationships.
Takeaways
LinkedIn is a powerful tool for networking.
Career paths can pivot unexpectedly, leading to new opportunities.
Sales styles have evolved from hard selling to relationship building.
Recruiters are not just job finders; they are relationship builders.
Engaging with recruiters should be a continuous effort, not just when seeking a job.
Trust is a significant barrier for women in recruitment.
Recruiters and candidates can find mutual benefits in their interactions.
Understanding the difference between recruitment and headhunting is crucial.
Retention strategies are often overlooked in recruitment processes
About the Guest:
Connect with Michelle Ansell on LinkedIn.
About the Host:
Connect with Sandra on LinkedIn and explore more insights: Sandra’s LinkedIn
Discover the 100 Women In Insurance Collective dedicated to connecting women in insurance: www.100womenininsurance.com/collective.

061: The Energy of Success, Chakras and Corporate Dynamics with Ingrid Woodward

Summary
In this episode of 100 Women in Insurance, Sandra interviews Ingrid Woodward, who shares her journey from the insurance industry to becoming a coach and healer.
Ingrid discusses her experiences with self-doubt, the importance of spirituality in the corporate world, and how she transitioned from a successful corporate career to follow her passion for helping others.
She emphasizes the significance of mental health, the challenges of self-sabotage, and the transformative power of connecting with one's true purpose.
Ingrid emphasizes the importance of embracing one's shadows, authenticity, and values in both personal and professional life. She also explores the integration of spirituality and the chakra system in the workplace, highlighting how energy flow impacts business dynamics.
The discussion culminates in her approach to working with individuals and organizations to foster growth and healing.
Takeaways
Spirituality can coexist with corporate life.
Personal power is about aligning with one's values.
Career paths can be non-linear and filled with opportunities.
Mental health is crucial in making career decisions.
Self-sabotage is a common challenge for many professionals.
Transitioning to a new career requires courage and self-trust.
Coaching can address root causes of personal challenges.
Perfectionism can lead to mistakes and self-doubt.
Loving your shadows can lead to greater self-acceptance.
The chakra system can influence workplace dynamics.
Businesses are living entities that require healthy energy flow.
Reference
Akashai records
Ingrid website and LinkedIn
Free Webinar “The High Achiever’s Dilemma”
Book Existential Kink
Throat Chakra at work
About the guest
Connect with Ingrid Woodward on LinkedIn and on Instagram.
About the host
Connect with Sandra on LinkedIn and explore more insights: Sandra’s LinkedIn
Discover the 100 Women In Insurance Collective dedicated to connecting women in insurance: www.100womenininsurance.com/collective.