This Podcast’s mission is to interview 100 women in the insurance profession, showcase the variety of roles available in the industry, share top career tips and...
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.
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34:34
068: How to make the most of your career with Romany O’Malley
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 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.
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48:38
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.
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50:11
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.
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39:53
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.
This Podcast’s mission is to interview 100 women in the insurance profession, showcase the variety of roles available in the industry, share top career tips and make insurance career choices, not chance.
Host Sandra Lewin and her guests share their stories and tips in each episode, hoping to inspire other women to take control of their lives and careers.
Ireland