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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

Monday Jan 13, 2025
004 Embracing cultural diversity - Sara Pantaleo
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
003 Finding the opportunities within challenges - Holly Martin
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
002 How to succeed in the C-Suite - Jennifer Geary
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
001 When you're the only woman on the executive team - Dr Kirsten Molloy
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

Tuesday Dec 03, 2024
Trailer - Welcome to the Female Executive's Survival Guide!
Tuesday Dec 03, 2024
Tuesday Dec 03, 2024
Welcome to the Female Executive's Survival Guide podcast!
Meet your host, Lauren Eyles, an Executive Coach and Mentor, and find out how she'll help you thrive at work.
Lauren previews three amazing guests who you'll meet on December 10:
- Dr Kirsten Molloy, a Board Chair and Non Executive Director, who was CEO of one of the world's biggest supply chains
- Jennifer Geary, a C-Suite expert and author of 'How to be a Chief Operating Officer'
- Holly Martin, a successful entrepreneur, MD of The Marketing GP and a Non Executive Director
Chapter list
00:00 Introduction to the Female Executive Survival Guide
00:29 Navigating the Challenges of Executive Roles
01:23 Authenticity and Leadership in Male-Dominated Environments
01:51 Engaging with the Audience for Tailored Support
Send your questions through
Lauren wants to know what's keeping you up at night, what questions do you have for our guests and how can we help you thrive in your career. Email info@laureneyles.com.au.

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).