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Support and inspiration to help you thrive as a senior leader. Lauren Eyles, Executive Coach & Mentor, chats with fabulous female leaders from across the world, sharing stories and tips. It’s like a coffee with friends and a free coaching session! For more information, visit https://femaleexecutivesurvivalguide.com/
Episodes
Tuesday Mar 18, 2025
Tuesday Mar 18, 2025
In this episode, Lauren Eyles speaks with Kathy Slack about reinventing your life and career. They explore what it’s like when you’ve climbed the career ladder but realize that it’s against the wrong wall.
The conversation explores Kathy’s new book Rough Patch: How a year in the garden brought me back to life which explores her journey through burnout, depression and finding rejuvenation and healing in nature.
Topics discussed include how the pressure to be always on can contribute to burnout, and the solace and creativity that nature offers. Lauren and Kathy also talk about the transferable skills that we develop in our careers which can help us change direction, and advice for emerging executives navigating their careers.
Takeaways
- Reinvention is a universal experience that many can relate to.
- Nature played a significant role in Kathy's recovery from depression.
- It's important to give yourself space to reflect and discover your true self.
- Burnout often creeps up gradually and can be hard to recognize.
- Rest is essential for creativity and overall well-being.
- People are often more focused on their own lives than you think.
- Most people are also figuring things out as they go along.
- Your past experiences and skills are valuable in new career paths.
- It's okay to prioritize your health and happiness over societal expectations.
Sound Bites
- "Leadership can be lonely."
- "It's so rare for us to be faced with ourselves."
- "You're meant for other things."
- "Rest is good for your creativity."
- "Burnout is…was so predictable."
- "I wish I hadn't got myself into such a pickle."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Reinvention
02:02 Kathy's Journey Through Depression
04:20 The Healing Power of Nature
07:32 Career Crossroads and Self-Discovery
10:50 The Impact of Corporate Culture
15:41 The Importance of Rest and Creativity
18:02 Recognizing Burnout and Its Signs
21:16 Connection to Nature and Self-Identity
24:08 Feminism and Personal Choices
27:29 Transferable Skills and New Beginnings
29:49 Advice for Emerging Executives
Keywords
reinvention, burnout, nature, corporate culture, creativity, self-discovery, feminism, transferable skills, mental health, leadership
Guest bio
Kathy Slack is the author of Rough Patch: How a year in the garden brought me back to life.
It’s a fabulous memoir with a lot of delicious recipes. It explores Kathy’s journey, from the dizzying heights of being a Global Strategy Director in a London advertising agency, through the bumpiness of burnout and depression, and finding rejuvenation in nature and coming home to herself.
Reinvention is something that all of us can relate to and this could be the Eat, Pray, Love of our time.
Connect with Kathy on Instagram at @gluts_gluttony or visit kathyslack.com where you can sign up to her weekly newsletter of seasonal recipes & veg patch tales.
Buy Kathy’s books here or on Amazon:
Host bio
Lauren Eyles is a trusted guide to new and experienced Executives, helping them navigate times of growth and change as an Executive Coach and Mentor.
She loves helping leaders find calm amid chaos, using her extensive experience as a Board Chair, Non Executive Director and Executive Leader.
She started this podcast to support and inspire women in their first few years of executive leadership, as she found that being the only woman on the senior leadership team was a bit lonely.
Lauren is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and has an MBA (Distinction), a Master of Sustainability and qualifications in coaching, change management, communication and project management.
Lauren would love to hear what you think of the podcast and what topics you'd like her to cover next. Please reach out via LinkedIn or Instagram.
Follow us on social
Insta https://www.instagram.com/femaleexecutivesurvivalguide
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564348226928
Or listen to the Female Executive Survival Guide playlist on itunes!
Tuesday Feb 25, 2025
Tuesday Feb 25, 2025
Summary
In this episode, Lauren Eyles speaks with Viv Allanson OAM, a trailblazing CEO in the Australian aged care and health sector, about how to lead with courage and love.
Viv emphasizes the importance of knowing one's true north and the courage to speak up for what is right, especially in challenging situations. She talks about what it was like to speak up for aged care residents during the pandemic, making national headlines when she challenged the approach of the then Prime Minister.
They discuss the importance of influence in leadership, how to build your team and bring them on the journey, and the need to be courageous and challenge the status quo.
In this conversation, Viv shares her journey of commitment to sustainability in building a new nursing home, and how she plans to continue contributing to the aged care sector after retirement including supporting those who care for older Australians.
Takeaways
- Leadership is fundamentally about influence.
- Influence is built on credibility and authenticity.
- Storytelling is a powerful tool in leadership.
- Leaders must have a personal vision to inspire others.
- Servant leadership involves supporting others' visions.
- Trusting your team is essential for growth.
- Avoid micromanagement to foster creativity and enthusiasm.
- Challenging the status quo can lead to innovation.
- Advocacy for aged care is crucial during crises.
- Women in leadership should back themselves.
- Knowing your true north is essential for integrity.
- Recognition of staff is important for morale.
- Being a good human is good business.
Chapters
Sound Bites
- "Influence starts from the floor up."
- "I don't abide micromanagement."
- "Ask yourself what's good for your people."
- "Challenge the status quo."
- "You must keep speaking up."
- "Know your true north."
- "If you lose everything, what do you do?"
- "I was carpeted for that action."
- "It's good business to be a good human."
Keywords
leadership, influence, servant leadership, team building, sustainability, empowerment, vision, clinical oversight, excellence, mentoring, sustainability, aged care, leadership, advocacy, personal growth, innovation, crisis management, retirement, women in leadership, healthcare
Guest bio
Viv Allanson OAM is the CEO of Maroba, a large aged care organisation in Newcastle, Australia.
She is a passionate advocate for the rights and dignity of older people… You may remember seeing Viv on the news during the pandemic where she spoke up to protect age care residents. At the time, the then-Prime Minister wanted nursing homes to allow more visitors.
Described as “a CEO who never accepts the status quo”, Viv has been recognised as the Australian Game Changer of the Year three times, as well as Visionary CEO of the Year.
Her leadership skills were forged in acute and aged care nursing and leadership roles over several decades, and she has been a CEO for 24 years.
Now Viv leads a team of 220, with a focus on teaching, strong clinical oversight and a commitment to excellence.
Host Bio
An Executive Coach and Mentor, Lauren Eyles is a trusted guide to new and experienced Executives, helping them navigate times of growth and change. She also helps leaders find calm amid chaos, bringing extensive experience as a Board Chair, Non Executive Director and Executive Leader, having worked across the ports and logistics, utilities, health and medical research, NFP and tourism sectors.
Lauren is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and has Masters degrees in business and sustainability and qualifications in coaching, change management, communication and project management.
Lauren would love to hear what you think of the podcast and what topics you'd like her to cover next. Please reach out via LinkedIn or Instagram.
Follow us on social
Insta https://www.instagram.com/femaleexecutivesurvivalguide
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564348226928
Tuesday Feb 11, 2025
Tuesday Feb 11, 2025
- Seeing yourself as a leader is essential for growth.
- Authenticity is key in leadership roles.
- Valuing your unique qualities enhances your leadership.
- Challenges are opportunities for learning and growth.
- Your impact on others defines your leadership.
- Listening to others' perspectives can boost your confidence.
- Coaching can help leaders navigate their paths effectively.
- "Look for the leaders in your community"
- "Study how leaders behave when they're off duty"
- "Leaders are human too"
Host Bio
An Executive Coach and Mentor, Lauren Eyles is a trusted guide to new and experienced Executives, helping them navigate times of growth and change. She also helps leaders find calm amid chaos, bringing extensive experience as a Board Chair, Non Executive Director and Executive Leader, having worked across the ports and logistics, utilities, health and medical research, NFP and tourism sectors.
Lauren is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and has Masters degrees in business and sustainability and qualifications in coaching, change management, communication and project management.
Tuesday Jan 28, 2025
Tuesday Jan 28, 2025
In this episode of the Female Executive Survival Guide podcast, Lauren Eyles discusses the importance of visibility in leadership with Dr. Sherman Chan, Chief Economist at Business NSW. They explore Sherman's journey in economics, the significance of effective communication, and the challenges faced by women in executive roles. The conversation also touches on financial literacy and the importance of having a support network while navigating one's career.
Guest Bio
Dr Sherman Chan is the Chief Economist for Business NSW, the voice of business for the state. A respected economist who makes big numbers easy to understand – quite an art!
Sherman grew up in Hong Kong and Sydney and earned a PhD from the University of New South Wales, focusing on financial exclusion and household access to Australian financial services.
She has informed strategies and policies across the public and private sectors and lectures in economics at UNSW.
Her witty sense of humour and sharp insights, sell out business events across the state. People line up to speak to Sherman after each event – a rock star reception for a rock star economist!
Connect with Sherman on LinkedIn
Host Bio
An Executive Coach and Mentor, Lauren Eyles is a trusted guide to new and experienced Executives, helping them navigate times of growth and change. She also helps leaders find calm amid chaos, bringing extensive experience as a Board Chair, Non Executive Director and Executive Leader, having worked across the ports and logistics, utilities, health and medical research, NFP and tourism sectors.
Lauren is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and has Masters degrees in business and sustainability and qualifications in coaching, change management, communication and project management.
Connect with Lauren on LinkedIn or Instagram
Find out about Lauren's coaching and mentoring
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Visibility and Leadership
01:54 Sherman Chan: A Journey Through Economics
06:01 Finding Your Voice as an Economist
10:03 The Art of Communication in Economics
13:59 Overcoming Self-Consciousness in Leadership
17:59 Financial Literacy and Personal Finance Tips
22:05 Navigating Challenges as a Female Executive
Takeaways
- Visibility is crucial for leaders to inspire others.
- Understanding economics requires both quantitative and qualitative analysis.
- Effective communication is essential for economists to engage their audience.
- Finding your voice takes time and confidence.
- Self-consciousness can be overcome by focusing on the value you bring.
- Financial literacy is vital for personal finance management.
- Setbacks in your career can lead to growth and resilience.
- Having a support network is critical for navigating challenges.
- Feedback from diverse perspectives can enhance your leadership skills.
- Embrace both successes and setbacks as learning opportunities.
Sound Bites
- "It's safe to be seen."
- "Leaders need to be visible."
- "Know your audience."
- "Be purpose-driven."
- "Have a support network."
Follow us on social
Insta https://www.instagram.com/femaleexecutivesurvivalguide
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564348226928
We'd love to hear from you
1. Share your ideas for the podcast
Do you have a burning question for our podcast guests, or is there a challenge that you’d like advice on? Email Lauren at https://laureneyles.com.au/contact
2. Join Lauren’s monthly newsletter here: https://tinyurl.com/livingheartfully
Every month Lauren writes about how to slow down and focus on what really matters to you, in a world that keeps speeding up. From reigniting your passion and purpose, to bringing people on the journey, to thriving as a woman in business. It’s called “Living Heartfully” and it’s written with heart and fueled by a flat white (Lauren’s favourite coffee).
Keywords
visibility, leadership, economics, communication, financial literacy, female executives, personal finance, support network, overcoming challenges, career growth
Monday Jan 13, 2025
Monday Jan 13, 2025
In this episode of the Female Executive Survival Guide podcast, Lauren Eyles speaks with Sarah Pantaleo, a Melbourne business leader and Chair of the Women on Boards Cultural Diversity Committee, about why cultural diversity is good for business and how to be an effective ally.
They explore Sara's career journey as an Italian-Australian woman, why culturally diverse teams can make better decisions and how to lead in an inclusive way.
The discussion highlights the significance of addressing discrimination and creating supportive environments for all employees, particularly women and those from diverse backgrounds.
Guest bio: Sara Pantaleo
Sara Pantaleo is a successful business person and Chair of the Women on Boards (WOB) Cultural Diversity Committee.
WOB is an amazing advocate not only for gender diversity on boards, but for greater cultural diversity. WOB is also highlighting the barriers that culturally diverse women face in leadership.
Sara started her career in IT in the banking industry, before moving into hospitality and transforming a family business, La Porchetta, from a 12 restaurant chain into Australia’s largest franchised a-la-carte restaurant group.
Sara is also a Non Executive Director in the health and small business sectors. Her IT and business qualifications include a Master of Leadership from Deakin University.
Connect with Sara
Women on Boards Cultural Diversity Committee
Host Bio: Lauren Eyles
An Executive Coach and Mentor, Lauren Eyles is a trusted guide to Executives, helping them navigate times of growth and change. She brings extensive experience as a Board Chair, Non Executive Director and Executive Leader, having worked across Australia’s ports, utilities, health and medical research, NFP and tourism sectors.
Lauren is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and has Masters degrees in business and sustainability and qualifications in coaching, change management, communication and project management.
Connect with Lauren
Learn about Lauren's coaching and mentoring work
Follow the Female Executive's Survival Guide on social
Insta https://www.instagram.com/femaleexecutivesurvivalguide
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564348226928
Takeaways
- Cultural diversity is lacking in many Australian boards.
- Personal experiences shape our understanding of diversity.
- Women from culturally diverse backgrounds face unique barriers.
- Allyship is crucial in supporting diverse women in leadership.
- Subtle biases can be just as challenging as overt discrimination.
- Diversity in leadership leads to better decision-making.
- Reflecting the community in business practices is essential.
- Commitment to diversity must be strategic and intentional. Embracing diversity benefits both individuals and teams.
- Creating inclusive work environments enhances productivity and morale.
- Addressing discrimination publicly can help create a healthier workplace culture.
Sound Bites
- "How can I be an effective ally?"
- "Are we reflecting our customer base?"
- "It takes all of us to do that"
- "We are part of this board"
- "Reach out to the Women on Boards Cultural Diversity Committee"
Keywords
leadership, cultural diversity, women in business, allyship, inclusion, workplace bias, diversity strategies, personal journey, gender equality, community support, diversity, leadership, gender equality, workplace culture, emotional intelligence, inclusivity, women in leadership, cultural diversity, discrimination, empowerment
Tuesday Dec 10, 2024
Tuesday Dec 10, 2024
In this conversation, Lauren Eyles and Holly Martin discuss the challenges and triumphs of navigating a career as a woman in business. They explore the importance of commitment, learning from mistakes, and the entrepreneurial journey, particularly during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Holly shares her insights on leadership, the value of mentorship, and the significance of building a transparent team culture. The discussion emphasizes the need for women to support each other and learn from diverse experiences in their career paths.
Tune in to learn how Holly became an entrepreneur, how to lead in a way that engages people and support and advice for aspiring executives.
Guest bio
Holly Martin is a successful entrepreneur who is skilled at turning challenges into opportunities. As Founder and Managing Director of a specialist marketing agency, the Marketing GP, Holly Martin has grown the business from a team of 1 to 15.
Holly is also a Non Executive Director and is the Senior Vice President of Business Hunter, the peak body for Australia’s largest regional economy.
Host bio
As an Executive Coach and Mentor, Lauren Eyles is a trusted guide to new and experienced Executives, helping them navigate times of growth and change. She also helps leaders find calm amid chaos, bringing extensive experience as a Board Chair, Non Executive Director and Executive Leader, having worked across the ports and logistics, utilities, health and medical research, NFP and tourism sectors.
She is particularly passionate about inspiring and supporting women during their first few years as an executive, knowing from experience that the experience can be lonely.
Lauren is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and has Masters degrees in business and sustainability and qualifications in coaching, change management, communication and project management.
Keywords
entrepreneurship, leadership, women in business, career growth, mentorship, work-life balance, learning from mistakes, business challenges, COVID-19 impact, transparency in teams
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Life's Lessons
03:07 Juggling Commitments and Responsibilities
05:59 The Entrepreneurial Journey
09:01 Learning from Mistakes
11:55 Building a Transparent Team Culture
15:02 Navigating Growth During COVID-19
18:04 Reflections on Leadership and Growth
20:52 The Importance of Mentorship
23:58 Advice for Aspiring Executives
List of resources, suggested materials, and social media handles:
Holly Martin (Guest):
Web https://themarketinggp.com.au/
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/justholly/
Lauren Eyles (Host and Executive Coach & Mentor):
Web https://laureneyles.com.au/
LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/laureneyles/
Insta https://www.instagram.com/lauren.eyles
The Female Executive’s Survival Guide
Insta https://www.instagram.com/femaleexecutivesurvivalguide
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61564348226928
Call to action, episode link & contact info
1. Join Lauren’s monthly newsletter here: https://tinyurl.com/livingheartfully
Every month Lauren writes about how to slow down and focus on what really matters to you, in a world that keeps speeding up. From reigniting your passion and purpose, to bringing people on the journey, to thriving as a woman in business. It’s called “Living Heartfully” and it’s written with heart and fuelled by a flat white (Lauren’s favourite coffee).
2. Share this episode
3. Share your ideas for the podcast
Do you have a burning question for our podcast guests, or is there a challenge that you’d like advice on? Email Lauren at https://laureneyles.com.au/contact
Tuesday Dec 10, 2024
Tuesday Dec 10, 2024
In this episode of the Female Executive Survival Guide podcast, Lauren Eyles speaks with Jennifer Geary, a seasoned executive and author, about the intricacies of leadership in the C-suite. They discuss the importance of understanding business strategy, culture, and execution for new executives, as well as the challenges faced by women in leadership roles. Jennifer shares her journey to becoming a Chief Operating Officer (COO), the skills necessary for navigating change, and the significance of self-care in maintaining balance and effectiveness as a leader. The conversation also touches on overcoming imposter syndrome and the importance of continuous learning and adaptation in executive roles.
Guest Bio
Jennifer Geary has not only held Chief Operating Officer roles, she has written FIVE books about the C-Suite including ‘How to be a Chief Operating Officer’. She is also the host of the C-Suite Framework podcast.
Jennifer started her career in finance and investment banking, before moving into C-Suite roles (Managing Director, COO, CRO) across banking, fintech, and NFP organisations. She also has a passion for AI and sustainability.
Host bio
As an Executive Coach and Mentor, Lauren Eyles is a trusted guide to new and experienced Executives, helping them navigate times of growth and change. She also helps leaders find calm amid chaos, bringing extensive experience as a Board Chair, Non Executive Director and Executive Leader, having worked across the ports and logistics, utilities, health and medical research, NFP and tourism sectors.
She is particularly passionate about inspiring and supporting women during their first few years as an executive, creating and sharing resources to help them thrive.
Lauren is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and has Masters degrees in business administration (MBA) and sustainability (MSUS) and qualifications in coaching, change management, communication and project management.
Takeaways
- Leadership can be lonely, and support is crucial.
- Understanding business strategy is key for executives.
- Culture can either supercharge or undermine efforts.
- New executives should focus on culture, strategy, and execution.
- Flexibility and curiosity are essential in changing environments.
- Women in leadership often face unique challenges.
- Self-care is a responsibility for effective leadership.
- Taking time to assess the landscape is important.
- Imposter syndrome can hinder career progression.
- Continuous learning is vital for overcoming knowledge gaps
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Leadership and Success
01:52 The Journey to the C-Suite
05:01 Key Pillars for New Executives
07:59 Navigating Change in Leadership
09:52 Experiences as a Woman in Leadership
12:04 The Importance of Self-Care
16:27 Reflections on Early Leadership Roles
19:11 Overcoming Imposter Syndrome
21:26 Resources for Aspiring Executives
Sound Bites
- "Leadership can be lonely."
- "How to figure out what success means."
- "Relax into it a little bit more."
- "Don't fall foul of imposter syndrome."
Connect with Jennifer
Books
Connect with Lauren
The Female Executive's Survival Guide
Key words
leadership, C-suite, executive coaching, women in leadership, imposter syndrome, self-care, business strategy, organizational culture, career development, executive success
Tuesday Dec 10, 2024
Tuesday Dec 10, 2024
In this episode of the Female Executive Survival Guide podcast, Lauren Eyles and guest Dr Kirsten Molloy discuss the unique challenges faced by women in executive roles, including feelings of isolation, the importance of building confidence, and navigating unwritten rules of success. They explore the significance of feedback, the dynamics of team interactions, and the necessity of curiosity in leadership. The conversation also touches on the advocacy for gender equality in business and the evolution of leadership styles over time. In this conversation, Kirsten shares her journey and insights on gender equity, diversity, and leadership. She emphasizes the necessity of speaking up about gender inequities and the importance of creating inclusive environments. Kirsten reflects on her experiences in leadership roles, the challenges faced, and the need for self-compassion and support. The discussion highlights the significance of data in driving change and the role of mentors in personal and professional growth.
Guest Bio
Dr Kirsten Molloy is an experienced Board Chair and Non Executive Director with a range of organisations including private companies, not-for-profits, mutual member based organisations and government-owned companies. Before becoming a CEO, she held executive roles in global resources, manufacturing and logistics companies.
She is also a great advocate for diversity and inclusion, engaging business leaders to be part of the change.
Host bio
As an Executive Coach and Mentor, Lauren Eyles is a trusted guide to new and experienced Executives, helping them navigate times of growth and change. She also helps leaders find calm amid chaos, bringing extensive experience as a Board Chair, Non Executive Director and Executive Leader, having worked across the ports and logistics, utilities, health and medical research, NFP and tourism sectors.
She is particularly passionate about inspiring and supporting women during their first few years as an executive, knowing from experience that the experience can be lonely.
Lauren is a graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors and has Masters degrees in business and sustainability and qualifications in coaching, change management, communication and project management.
Key Themes
- Navigating Leadership Loneliness
- Building Confidence in Executive Roles
- The Unwritten Rules of Success
- The Power of Feedback in Leadership
- Understanding Team Dynamics
- Curiosity: A Key to Effective Leadership
Chapters
Sound Bites
- "Leadership can be lonely."
- "Feeling like a fish out of water."
- "It's a practice."
- "You have to manage your manager."
- "Curiosity is important in leadership."
- "You need to sit with discomfort."
- "You can't be what you can't see."
- "Data is incredibly powerful."
- "How do we make sure that..."
- "I would be much kinder to myself."
- "Be kind to yourself."
- "Find your supporters, your people."
Connect with Kirsten
Verity Leadership Breakfasts (Newcastle AU)
Connect with Lauren
The Female Executive's Survival Guide
Women on Boards (WOB)
WOB Cultural Diversity Reports
Key words
leadership, women in business, executive roles, confidence, feedback, team dynamics, diversity, inclusion, unwritten rules, gender equality, gender equity, diversity, inclusion, leadership, women in business, mentorship, safe spaces, self-compassion, career growth, advocacy
Hire Lauren as your coach
Lauren Eyles (Podcast host) is a trusted coach and mentor for emerging and experienced leaders, with a tonne of Board and Executive experience and qualifications*.
What she does:
- Helps leaders grow from technical expert to effective team leader
- Guides new executives in their first couple of years in the C-Suite
- Co-creates effective strategies with CEOs and executives for an ever-changing world.
1:1 sessions are held globally online or in person in Newcastle/Sydney.
Visit www.laureneyles.com.au or email info@laureneyles.com.au to find out more.
*Board Chair, Executive experience across many industries, MBA (Distinction), Master of Sustainability, Graduate of the Australian Institute of Company Directors, BA Communication.
Listeners: How can we help you thrive?
Do you need some career advice? What questions do you have for Lauren or our guests?
We want this podcast to be a relevant and helpful tool for you. Please share send your questions or feedback at https://laureneyles.com.au/contact
Let us know if you'd like to remain anonymous.
Leaders: Do you have a story to share?
Are you a female Board member or Executive with a story and advice to share?
Please email info@laureneyles.com.au with:
1. A few lines about you and your professional experience.
2. A link to your LinkedIn page.
3. What advice do you have for female executives (1 or 2 sentences).