Karen’s career spans decades, with multiple creative chapters from early ambitions as an actor, to working in advertising as a TV producer, moving into production as a talent scout and producer, co-founding her own production company Pink Films, and ultimately from there, stepping into a decades long, award winning directing career. Her journey is a powerful example of what it means to evolve, adapt and sustain a long-term creative career.

Karen is known for her emotionally rich, human-led storytelling and her ability to draw authentic performances with her AMAZING casting, often from non-actors. Her directing career began with the award-winning short film “Wonderful World,” created for a children’s charity, which marked a defining turning point and launched her behind the camera, the project sweeping the board at the award ceremonies establishing Karen as an impactful voice shaping the landscape of brands and the ad industry alike.

With warmth, honesty and humour, Karen reflects on the pivotal moments that shaped her path, including navigating gender bias as a female director, building resilience through uncertainty, and embracing reinvention at every stage of life.

Together, Athene and Karen explore:

• What it takes to build a long-lasting career in the advertising and film industries
• The power of reinvention and career pivots
• The realities of being a female director in a male-dominated industry
• How producing shaped Karen’s creative instinct and leadership
• The importance of authentic storytelling and human connection in film
• Balancing personal challenges alongside professional success
• What it truly means to direct your life with intention

This is a conversation about experience, instinct, and staying power.. and a reminder that longevity in creative careers is not just about talent, but about resilience, self-belief and evolution over time.

The chat is woven around a journey through music and memory. Sit back, relax and enjoy. 🎧✨

🎶 Episode Playlist

Track 1 – Blowin In The Wind - Bob Dylan

Track 2 – Like A Prayer - Madonna

Track 3 – Blinded By Your Grace - Stormzy

Track 4 – Wonderful World - Louis Armstrong

Track 5 – Perfect Day - BBC Version 1997

🎧 Listen to the emPOWER Breakfast – Karen Cunningham Spotify Playlist

Karen Cunningham, female director, advertising industry, film director interview, women in film, creative careers, career longevity, reinvention, storytelling, directing commercials, PRETTYBIRD

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If you enjoyed this episode, make sure to follow, rate and review The emPOWER Breakfast Podcast. it helps more people discover these conversations and supports the growth of this community. 💫

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Following a theme of rootlessness in her early years that often saw her pushing herself to the edges, Mia reflects on how she transformed her path, forging an extraordinary career across some of the most respected names in advertising, film and production before stepping out to found her own talent company, Mamamia Talent.

Now recognised for her creative instinct, strategic leadership and fierce commitment to championing talent and authentic connection, Mia represents directors and creative talent including Business Club, Riff Raff and Love Song while continuing to carve out her own space as a powerful voice within the creative industries as Ciclope's goto MC among other leading events. She is also forging forward with Bid Different - her

With warmth, humour and vulnerability, Mia shares candid reflections on identity, ambition, creativity and navigating the advertising world as a woman of colour — exploring how life’s most difficult moments can become catalysts for growth, reinvention and self-belief.

Together, Athene and Mia discuss:

• Resilience and career reinvention
• Leadership in advertising and production
• Creativity, identity and representation
• Building confidence through adversity
• Female leadership and empowerment
• Redefining success on your own terms
• Balancing ambition with humanity and emotional honesty

This is a powerful conversation about creative leadership, empowerment and finding your voice, one that will resonate with anyone navigating change in work, life, identity or purpose.

The chat is woven around a trip down a musical memory lane. Sit back, relax and enjoy. 🎧✨

Track 1 – Sweet Like Chocolate - Shanks & Bigfoot

Track 2 – Hotel California - The Eagles

Track 3 – Jets - Bonobo

Track 4 – Down The Line - It Takes A Number - Romare

Track 5 – So U Kno - Overmono

The emPOWER Breakfast - Mia Powell Spotify Playlist

Mia Powell, Mamamia Talent, women in advertising, female founder, creative leadership, advertising industry, production industry, women of colour in advertising, creative careers, resilience, career reinvention, empowerment podcast, female leadership, talent representation, women in media, emotional intelligence, leadership in advertising, creative entrepreneurship, women founders, authentic leadership, film production, advertising production, diversity in creative industries, confidence, identity, storytelling, creative resilience, empowerment, navigating change, entrepreneurship

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

A deeply respected voice within the creative industries, Rani shares her reflections on purpose, intuition and the power of creativity as a spiritual act.. exploring the belief that advertising, at its best, is the art of manifesting ideas, emotion and imagination into reality.

Together, Athene and Rani discuss the unseen forces that shape our lives and careers, touching on intuition, dreams, identity and the emotional depth that often exists beneath creative leadership.

At the heart of the conversation is Rani’s experience of grief following the recent loss of her stepfather, and how loss can profoundly reshape both our inner worlds and our relationship to creativity, meaning and connection.

With warmth, wisdom and vulnerability, Rani reflects on leadership, self-discovery and finding authenticity within both life and work, offering a powerful perspective on what it means to navigate the creative industries with emotional intelligence, humanity and purpose.

Together, Athene and Rani explore:

• Spirituality and creativity in advertising
• Leadership and authenticity in the creative industries
• Grief, loss and emotional resilience
• Intuition, identity and self-discovery
• Creativity as manifestation and storytelling
• Women in advertising and creative leadership
• Finding meaning and purpose through work and life experiences

This is a deeply thoughtful conversation about creativity, spirituality and human connection and one that will resonate with anyone navigating grief, transformation, leadership or personal growth.

The chat is woven around a trip down a musical memory lane. Sit back, relax and enjoy. 🎧✨

Track 1 – Dreams - Gabrielle

Track 2 – No Matter What They Say - Lil Kim

Track 3 – So Far To Go - J Dilla, Common, D’Angelo

Track 4 – Mystic Brew - Ronnie Foster

Track 5 – Ultra Beam - Sunday Service Choir

The emPOWER Breakfast - Rani Patel Spotify Playlist 

Rani Patel, adam&eve/TBWA, Creator Lab, women in advertising, creative leadership, spirituality and creativity, grief and loss, emotional resilience, authenticity, leadership podcast, empowerment podcast, intuition, self-discovery, creativity in advertising, women in media, storytelling, creative industries, manifestation, purpose, emotional intelligence, spiritual leadership, female leadership, personal growth, identity, authentic leadership

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the emPOWER Podcast, Athene Parker is joined by actor, entrepreneur and author Perry Power for a deeply courageous and emotionally intelligent conversation about sexual abuse, masculinity, healing and the transformative power of storytelling.

Perry speaks openly about his experience as a survivor of childhood sexual abuse and the journey that led him to found the Be Powerful Movement a platform supporting survivors in reclaiming their voices through writing, film, creativity and community.

Together, Athene and Perry explore the impact of silence on identity, mental health and emotional wellbeing, discussing why men’s stories around abuse are still so often left unheard and unsupported. They reflect on vulnerability, emotional honesty and the importance of creating safer, more compassionate spaces, both in life and within the workplace, where truth can be spoken without shame.

With warmth, sensitivity and insight, Perry shares how storytelling became a pathway toward healing, purpose and connection, and why creativity can play such a powerful role in recovery and self-understanding.

Together, Athene and Perry discuss:

• Childhood sexual abuse and breaking generational silence
• Masculinity, vulnerability and emotional resilience
• Healing through storytelling and creativity
• Mental health and emotional wellbeing
• Authentic leadership and human connection
• The role of empathy and emotionally intelligent conversations
• Building safer spaces for truth, healing and recovery

He wanted to give you his free guide to writing your story so click and download and start to explore your own story in a safe space.

Perry has also written two books with a third on the way:

Breaking The Silence and his second book Story Medicine is coming out soon! 

Perry is fundraising for his film ‘It Ends With Me’ so if you would like details please click here.

The chat is woven around a trip down a musical memory lane. Sit back, relax and enjoy!

Track 1 – Grease - Frankie Valli

Track 2 – Thinkin Bout Me - Morgan Wallen

Track 3 – An American Trilogy - Elvis Presley

Track 4 – Gonna Fly Now - Theme from Rocky

Track 5 – If I Can Dream - Elvis Presley

The emPOWER Breakfast - Perry Power Spotify Playlist 

Perry Power, Be Powerful Movement, childhood sexual abuse survivor, healing through storytelling, masculinity and vulnerability, men’s mental health, emotional resilience, storytelling and recovery, authentic leadership, emotional intelligence, trauma recovery, creativity and healing, empowerment podcast, mental health conversations, breaking generational silence, survivor stories, emotional wellbeing, vulnerability in men, healing journey, personal growth, empathy, authentic connection

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With more than twenty years on screen at the BBC, Jen reflects on a broadcasting career shaped by storytelling, communication and public connection. She also speaks candidly about the emotional impact of losing her father at a young age, growing up onscreen, and the personal toll of being targeted online.

Together, Athene and Jen explore the knock to confidence that can follow public criticism and online abuse, the emotional resilience required to rebuild a sense of safety and self, and the intentional work involved in reconnecting with confidence after adversity.

With warmth, intelligence and vulnerability, Jen shares her perspective on communication, visibility and emotional wellbeing in an always-on digital world alongside practical strategies for reducing overwhelm, grounding in real-life connection and protecting mental health while navigating social media and public-facing careers.

Together, Athene and Jen discuss:

• Resilience and rebuilding confidence
• Online abuse and social media pressure
• Mental health and emotional wellbeing
• Growing up in the public eye
• Communication and storytelling
• Navigating grief and personal loss
• Confidence, visibility and self-worth
• Digital overwhelm and authentic connection

This is a thoughtful and empowering conversation about resilience, communication and finding your footing again after difficult experiences, both personally and professionally.

The chat is woven around a trip down a musical memory lane. Sit back, relax and enjoy. 🎧✨

Track 1 – Bruce Springsteen - Dancing in the Dark

Track 2 – Smokey Robinson - Tears of A Clown

Track 3 – Radiohead - No Surprises

Track 4 – Katy Perry - Raw

Track 5 – Primal Scream - Moving On Up 

The emPOWER Breakfast - Jennifer Bartram Spotify Playlist 

Jen talked about a wonderful supportive Facebook community called Adults Bereaved As Children. A place where she has found empathy and support around her feelings of grief losing her father aged 16.

For people with teens interested to read how social media is affecting young people Jen recommended The Anxious Generation by Jonathan Haidt.

Jen also offered practical ideas for creating healthier boundaries with technology, from grounding ourselves offline to removing the visual prompts that drive habitual scrolling.

Jen’s Digital Wellbeing Tip: Turning on Greyscale (iPhone):

Settings → Accessibility → Display & Text Size → Colour Filters → switch ON → select Greyscale

To add a quick shortcut:

Settings → Accessibility → Accessibility Shortcut → select Colour Filters

Triple-click the side button to toggle greyscale instantly.

Jennifer Bartram, BBC journalist, broadcast journalist, online abuse, resilience, confidence, emotional wellbeing, women in media, mental health, grief and loss, communication skills, storytelling, public speaking, rebuilding confidence, social media pressure, emotional resilience, empowerment podcast, authentic leadership, digital wellbeing, navigating adversity, women in broadcasting

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Drawing on his own personal experience, James shares how he transformed an incredibly difficult chapter of family life into a movement focused on supporting parents navigating separation with greater empathy, communication and understanding, helping families prioritise the emotional wellbeing of children during periods of change.

Together, Athene and James explore the importance of building more compassionate workplace cultures and discuss the role employers can play in recognising major life events such as divorce, separation and family breakdown, experiences that profoundly impact both home life and professional performance, yet are rarely openly discussed within the workplace.

The conversation also opens into a deeply personal dialogue around parenting and care, as both Athene and James reflect on their experiences as parent carers to non-speaking autistic children. With honesty, warmth and vulnerability, they discuss communication, emotional resilience, advocacy and the unseen realities faced by many families raising neurodivergent children.

Together, Athene and James discuss:

• Compassionate leadership and emotional intelligence
• Family separation and co-parenting
• Parenting neurodivergent and autistic children
• Workplace wellbeing and supportive cultures
• Men’s mental health and vulnerability
• Emotional resilience and communication
• Advocacy, care and navigating adversity
• Building empathy at work and at home

This is a powerful and compassionate conversation about leadership, parenting, humanity and creating spaces where difficult conversations can happen with honesty, care and understanding.

The chat is woven around a trip down a musical memory lane. Sit back, relax and enjoy. 🎧✨

Track 1 – Queen - Radio Gaga

Track 2 – Stormy Clouds - The Verve

Track 3 – Heart and Soul - David Gray

Track 4 – Fever to the Form - Nick Mulvey

Track 5 – When I Close My Eyes - Benjamin Amaru

The emPOWER Breakfast - James Hayhurst Spotify Playlist 

For those who’d like to explore the themes discussed in more depth, you can find resources and insights from the session in our accompanying PDF guide.

You can also learn more about The Parents Promise and how to introduce its principles in your workplace here:

www.theparentspromise.org.uk

James Hayhurst, Positive Parenting Alliance, The Parents Promise, compassionate leadership, co-parenting, family separation, divorce support, parenting autistic children, neurodiversity, autism advocacy, emotional intelligence, workplace wellbeing, men’s mental health, emotional resilience, leadership podcast, authentic leadership, parenting podcast, family wellbeing, vulnerability, empathy, neurodivergent families, Profound autism, non speaker, Pre Verbal.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rebecca’s career spans bold advertising campaigns, beautifully crafted films and a passion for championing authentic storytelling that challenges the status quo. Through her work across creativity, technology and community building, she continues to create space for emerging voices, collaboration and more human-centred creative leadership within the advertising and film industries.

Together, Athene and Rebecca explore the messy, brilliant and deeply human realities of doing creative work, discussing career pivots, uncertainty, neurodivergence and burnout. How as.a woman you must develop the superpower of confidence and embrace the ongoing process of growth and reinvention.

With warmth, humour and honesty, Rebecca reflects on navigating leadership as a freelancer, embracing change within the rapidly evolving AI and creative industries, and learning how to find strength and clarity during moments of uncertainty.

This episode is a powerful reminder that authenticity is not something to fix but a place from which creativity, courage and meaningful leadership can flourish.

Together, Athene and Rebecca discuss:

• Creative resilience and career reinvention
• Leadership and freelancing in the creative industries
• AI and creativity
• Authentic leadership and emotional intelligence
• Burnout, confidence and uncertainty
• Women in advertising and film
• Community building and creative support networks
• Embracing growth and being a work in progress

This is a thoughtful and uplifting conversation about creativity, leadership, identity and learning to trust yourself through periods of change and evolution.

The chat is woven around a trip down a musical memory lane. Sit back, relax and enjoy. 🎧✨

Track 1 – Assassin De La Police – Cut Killer (from La Haine)

Track 2 – Non, Je Ne Regrette Rien – Édith Piaf

Track 3 – Coconut Mall – Mario Kart Wii Soundtrack

Track 4 – Can’t Take My Eyes Off You – Frankie Valli

Track 5 – I Am the Greatest – Spinifex Gum x Marliya Choir

The emPOWER Breakfast - Rebecca Rowntree Spotify Playlist

Rebecca Rowntree, AI Creative Technologist, creative resilience, creative leadership, women in advertising, women in film, freelancing, authentic leadership, creative careers, AI and creativity, emotional intelligence, burnout, career reinvention, leadership podcast, creative industries, women in media, storytelling, confidence, personal growth, empowerment podcast, creative community, Get Shit Done community, ADHD.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Back in April, Barny joined us to launch the very first emPOWERMENt event, a space created to encourage more emotionally honest conversations amongst men in the creative industries and to explore vulnerability, resilience and authentic leadership through the male experience. In this candid conversation, Barny opens up about his personal journey through addiction and recovery, reflecting on the pressures of working in advertising, the emotional impact of losing his nephew, and the ongoing commitment required to maintain sobriety while navigating a high-pressure industry.

With warmth, humour and honesty, Barny shares what recovery has taught him about identity, connection, self-awareness and leadership, offering a powerful reminder that vulnerability and emotional openness are not weaknesses, but strengths.

Together, Athene and Barny discuss:

• Addiction and recovery
• Sobriety and mental health
• Leadership in the advertising industry
• Grief, loss and emotional resilience
• Men’s mental health and vulnerability
• Authentic leadership and emotional honesty
• Workplace culture and emotional wellbeing
• Navigating pressure, identity and personal growth

This is a moving and inspiring conversation about healing, humanity and the courage it takes to confront difficult truths — both personally and professionally.

The chat is woven around a trip down a musical memory lane. Sit back, relax and enjoy. 🎧✨

Track 1 – Don’t You Want Me - Hooj Mix - Felix

Track 2 – Prayer - Prospa

Track 3 – White Lines - Grandmaster Flash

Track 4 – Starfish and Coffee - Prince

Track 5 – Wildfires - Sault

The emPOWER Breakfast – Barny Wright Spotify Playlist

We asked Barny what helped him stay on track and here are a few of the books that he turned to to help him get through his experience of not only addiction, but also the grief of losing his nephew.

Addiction:

The Ongoing Path by Mark Dempster

Atomic Habits by James Clear

Running (running is Barny’s ‘goto’ to maintain mental wellness and resolve):

Born to Run (McDougall book)

Grief: 

A Heart That Works by Rob Delaney

We also thought these links might be helpful resources. 

NA - Narcotics Anonymous

AA - Alcoholics Anonymous

Mind

Remember, If you or someone you love is struggling with addiction please source support. Unmasking and reaching out to your community for help and advice will make you feel better than you think. If someone you know is struggling and it is impacting you, the first thing you must do is support yourself. You don’t have to do this alone.

Barny Wright, No.8 London, addiction recovery, sobriety, advertising industry, men’s mental health, emotional resilience, authentic leadership, leadership podcast, recovery journey, grief and loss, emotional wellbeing, mental health conversations, vulnerability in leadership, workplace wellbeing, creative industries, personal growth, empowerment podcast, emotional honesty, recovery and leadership

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Melissa speaks candidly about her own experience navigating debilitating perimenopause symptoms whilst working as CEO of Dark Horses, and reflects on the emotional, physical and professional challenges of managing menopause within the fast-paced advertising industry.

During her time as CEO of Dark Horses, Melissa wrote an open-source menopause policy designed to support women experiencing menopause at work, a policy later adapted by Menopause Mandate as part of their mission to improve awareness, education and workplace support around menopause and women’s health.

With warmth, humour and remarkable honesty, Melissa shares defining moments from her impressive career journey, alongside stories from her entrepreneurial childhood that offer a glimpse into the fearless, driven and determined woman she would become.

Together, Athene and Melissa discuss:

• Perimenopause and menopause in the workplace
• Women’s health and leadership
• Navigating menopause in advertising and creative industries
• Workplace wellbeing and menopause policies
• Female leadership and resilience
• Burnout, identity and emotional wellbeing
• Entrepreneurship and career progression
• Breaking stigma and creating cultural change

This is an insightful and important conversation about women’s health, leadership and the urgent need for more open, compassionate conversations around menopause at work and beyond.

The chat is woven around a trip down a musical memory lane. Sit back, relax and enjoy. 🎧✨

Tracks:

1. Oliver’s Army – Elvis Costello
2. Days Like This – Van Morrison
3. Sisyphus – Andrew Bird
4. Rise – Gabrielle
5. Give Me One Reason – Tracy Chapman

The emPOWER Breakfast – Melissa Robertson Spotify Playlist

Melissa is a Director of Menopause Mandate, a movement founded by Mariella Frostrup to push for policy change for women in peri menopause and menopause in both workplaces and GP surgeries. Here is Melissa’s open source Menopause Policy, written while CEO at Dark Horses.

Did anyone mention Menopause: It's a Right Laugh!? A one off show with an all female line up of top comedy, introduced by MM chair Mariella Frostrup and compéred by the one and only Davina. Menopause Mandate are looking for a sponsor to cover artist costs so that we can get this CORKER on air. If that sponsor could be YOU then click here.

The emPOWER Breakfast created a giveaway PDF with tips, information and testimonials from members for Melissa’s talk which we wanted to share with you.

British Menopause Society: Guidance on symptom management and treatment options.

HRT options:

Progesterone – Tablets (can be used as pessaries if you react to progesterone)

Estrogen – Gel or patches

Testosterone – Access Androfemme via the Newson Clinic, or ask your GP for male testosterone in the UK.

Quick fact: During peak fertile years your ovaries make more testosterone than estrogen so don’t take no for an answer if you feel it could help

For some, HRT is life changing when physical and emotional symptoms impact mental health. Every woman should have the right to choose what works for her. Connecting with communities, therapists or menopause specialists can provide practical tips and emotional support.

Melissa Robertson, Menopause Mandate, Women’s Sports Trust, menopause in the workplace, perimenopause, women’s health, female leadership, advertising industry, menopause policy, workplace wellbeing, women in leadership, emotional wellbeing, leadership podcast, menopause awareness, creative industries, resilience, women in advertising, authentic leadership, burnout, empowerment podcast

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Sally reflects on a life and career shaped by strength, humour, empathy and connection. She speaks candidly about caring for her mother, who is living with advanced dementia, sharing the emotional realities of family caregiving an experience faced by so many people, yet still rarely spoken about openly within workplaces and leadership culture.

Alongside her deeply personal story, Sally also reflects on defining and challenging moments from her impressive career in the advertising and media industries, exploring how vulnerability, emotional honesty and compassion have shaped both her leadership style and personal resilience.

Together, Athene and Sally discuss:

• Dementia and family caregiving
• Resilience, grief and emotional wellbeing
• Compassionate leadership and empathy at work
• Women in advertising and media
• Navigating loss and major life changes
• Emotional intelligence and authentic connection
• Balancing caregiving alongside career and leadership
• Finding joy, humour and humanity during difficult times

This is a powerful and uplifting conversation about care, resilience and the importance of leading, and living with empathy. Sally's is a huge story and she's only just beginning her second act.

The chat is woven around a trip down a musical memory lane. Sit back, relax and enjoy. 🎧✨

Tracks:

1. Bow Wow Wow - Go Wild In The Country
2. Sex Pistols - Who Killed Bambi
3. Ludovico Einaudi - The Earth Prelude
4. Stevie Wonder - Isn’t She Lovely
5. Snatam Kaur - Long Time Sun

The emPOWER Breakfast - Sally Miller Spotify Playlist

We asked Sally to share some of her go-to resources that bring her knowledge and comfort. Take a look below.

Resources/Links:

Gabby Bernstein Instagram

Audible Books:

Manifest by Rosie Nafousi

The Goddess Path by Kirsty Gallagher

A New Earth by Eckhart Tolle

Dare I Say It by Naomi Watts

This is Dyslexia by Kate Griggs

Menopausing by Davina McCall & Dr Naomi Potter

Am I Enough: Mark Your Mirror & Change Your Life by Marisa Peer

The Power of Now by Eckhart Tolle

Clear Thinking by Shane Parrish

My Dyslexia by Philip Schultz

Living from a Place of Surrender by Michael A. Singer

The Mindful Body by Ellen Langer

Alchemy by Rory Sutherland

Oh, Miriam! by Miriam Margolyes

Happy Mind, Happy Life by Dr Rangan Chatterjee

Sally Miller, caregiving, dementia care, family caregiving, compassionate leadership, emotional resilience, women in advertising, women in media, grief and loss, empathy in leadership, emotional wellbeing, authentic leadership, leadership podcast, dementia awareness, caregiving and work, resilience, women in leadership, empowerment podcast, emotional intelligence, workplace wellbeing. Relationship loss. Bereavement.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this special episode of the emPOWER Breakfast Podcast, the tables are turned as emPOWER’s very first guest speaker, the wonderful Leila Bartlam, takes over hosting duties to sit down with founder and host Athene Parker for a deeply personal and raw conversation about motherhood, resilience, neurodiversity, creativity and the journey behind building The emPOWER Breakfast.

Athene shares the story behind the creation of emPOWER and reflects on a career spanning more than 25 years across the music, advertising and creative industries, working in new business, artist development and production before stepping fully into building the emPOWER movement launching in March 2024.

Alongside her professional journey, Athene speaks candidly about life as a parent carer to her son Jack, who is profoundly autistic and non speaking, and the emotional realities of navigating autism, advocacy, caregiving and family life whilst continuing to build a purpose-led business and community.

As founder of theSENmumma, a support network for mothers at the beginning of the diagnosis journey with their children, Athene reflects on how personal adversity, nervous system awareness and authentic human connection became the driving force behind her work and mission.

With warmth, humour and vulnerability, Leila and Athene explore creativity, identity, resilience, motherhood and the importance of creating spaces where people feel truly seen, heard and supported.

Together, they discuss:

• Motherhood and caregiving
• Autism advocacy and neurodiversity
• Building The emPOWER Breakfast
• Women in advertising and creative industries
• Resilience, grief and emotional wellbeing
• Purpose-led leadership and authentic connection
• Nervous system regulation and mental health
• Creativity, identity and reinvention

This is an intimate and uplifting conversation about family, purpose, creativity and finding meaning through life’s most challenging experiences.

The chat is woven around a trip down a musical memory lane. Sit back, relax and enjoy. 🎧✨

Tracks:

1. Fairport Convention - Crazy Man Michael
2. Rosie Vela - Magic Smile
3. Mother Devine - Devi Prayer
4. Justin Timberlake - Can’t Stop The Feeling (Got That Sunshine in My Pocket) 
5. Ganavya - Oh Raaya 
6. Jamiroquai - Virtual Insanity

The emPOWER Breakfast - Athene Parker Spotify Playlist

Useful Resources:

The Telepathy Tapes - Ky Dickens

If you are a parent to a non speaker, this will blow your mind. If you aren’t it will blow yours harder!

Spell To Communicate

theSENmumma

Filofax! They still exist :)

Athene Parker, Founder and Host of The emPOWER Breakfast, autism advocacy, neurodiversity, motherhood, caregiving, parent carers, theSENmumma, women in advertising, creative industries, emotional resilience, authentic leadership, nervous system regulation, empowerment podcast, autism parenting, women in media, leadership podcast, purpose-led business, mental health, emotional wellbeing

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Lucy shares the story of losing her first daughter, Poppy, to a brain tumour, and reflects on the devastating impact grief had on both her personal life and professional world. With extraordinary openness and courage, she speaks about navigating bereavement whilst continuing to lead within the fast-paced advertising industry, and the emotional realities of returning to work after profound loss.

Now MD of McCann Birmingham, Lucy has become a passionate advocate for more compassionate workplace cultures and greater understanding around grief, loss and emotional wellbeing and helping organisations better support employees experiencing trauma, bereavement and life-altering events.

Together, Athene and Lucy explore how tragedy reshaped Lucy’s leadership style, her understanding of community and vulnerability, and her belief that there is life after loss, even in moments when hope can feel impossible to reach. With warmth, honesty and humanity, Lucy reflects on motherhood, resilience and the importance of authentic leadership during life’s most difficult chapters.

Together, Athene and Lucy discuss:

• Child loss and grief
• Cancer and bereavement
• Leadership through adversity
• Workplace support and compassionate leadership
• Emotional resilience and mental health
• Returning to work after loss
• Women in leadership and advertising
• Vulnerability, community and authentic connection

Lucy is a proud mother of three and lives with her husband and Poppy’s two sisters.

This is a deeply emotional and powerful conversation about grief, humanity and the strength it takes to continue forward after devastating loss 🎧✨

Tracks:

1. Thank You For The Music – ABBA
2. Working 9-5 – Dolly Parton
3. Together in Electric Dreams – Phil Oakey
4. Stronger – Kelly Clarkson
5. Weightless – Marconi Union

The emPOWER Breakfast – Lucy Hudson – Spotify Playlist

Key Topics:

Leadership Through Crisis – Balancing work with personal grief

Workplace Grief – Creating supportive environments

Team Support – How to show up for grieving colleagues

Authentic Leadership – Why vulnerability is a strength

Supporting Colleagues Through Grief – Tips:

Listen, don’t fix

Follow their lead – Let them share at their pace

Offer specific help – “Can I handle the client call today?”

Respect their process – Grief has no timeline

Ongoing Support:

Check in regularly – Often, support is most needed after the funeral

Remember key dates – Offer flexibility on anniversaries or birthdays

Include them – Don’t assume they want to be alone

Be patient – Grief affects focus and decision-making

What NOT to Say:

“I know how you feel.”

“They’re in a better place.”

“How old? That’s a good innings.”

“Everything happens for a reason.”

“You need to move on.”

Any “At least…” statements

What TO Say:

“I’m thinking of you.”

“I’m here if you need me.”

“Would you like to talk about [their loved one]?”

“There’s no right way to grieve.”

“How are you today/this afternoon?” (Be specific)

If You’re Bereaved: The Five Stages of Grief (Kübler-Ross Model):

1. Denial – “This can’t be happening”
2. Anger – “Why me? This isn’t fair”
3. Bargaining – “If only…”
4. Depression – Sadness and withdrawal
5. Acceptance – Coming to terms with reality

Useful Resources:

Cruse Bereavement Care – Free advice/support

The Compassionate Friends – Support for bereaved parents/siblings

Child Bereavement UK – Family support

Winston’s Wish – Support for grieving children/young people

Lucy Hudson, McCann Birmingham, grief and loss, child loss, bereavement, cancer, leadership through grief, compassionate leadership, workplace wellbeing, emotional resilience, women in advertising, women in leadership, authentic leadership, mental health, emotional wellbeing, returning to work after grief, leadership podcast, empowerment podcast, vulnerability, community and connection

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rosie is a multi award-winning Art Director whose extraordinary career began with a placement at BBH before she had even finished university, going on to spend 33 years at one of the world’s most respected advertising agencies. During her career she became known not only for her exceptional creative work, but also for her courage in speaking openly about issues often left unspoken within the industry.

As President of D&AD during its 50th year, Rosie created the iconic White Pencil, celebrating work that creates positive social impact and “good in the world.” She is also a recipient of the D&AD Lifetime Achievement Award, recognising her enormous contribution to creativity, leadership and advertising culture.

In this wonderfully vibrant conversation, Rosie reflects on leadership, motherhood, menopause and the changing landscape of the creative industries, including her now-famous habit of deliberately saying the word “menopause” in boardroom meetings long before workplace conversations around women’s health became more common. Rosie also talks about a period of caring and loss of her beloved Husband Pete.

Athene and Rosie discuss:

• Creative leadership and longevity in advertising
• Women in creative industries
• Menopause and workplace culture
• Speaking up and challenging stigma
• Reinvention and life after advertising
• Creativity, identity and confidence
• Motherhood and balancing career with family life
• Authentic leadership and social impact

Now a prolific painter of clouds, Rosie reflects on creativity beyond career titles and the freedom of embracing new chapters later in life.

This is a thoughtful, funny and empowering conversation about leadership, courage, creativity and the importance of continuing to evolve.

The chat is woven around a trip down a musical memory lane. Sit back, relax and enjoy. 🎧✨

Tracks:

1. Raggle Taggle Gypsy – Christy Moore
2. If I Were a Bell – Jean Simmons
3. Bring Me Sunshine – Morecambe & Wise
4. Move Over Darling – Doris Day
5. Lucky Lucky Me – Evelyn Knight

The emPOWER Breakfast – Rosie Arnold Spotify Playlist

Rosie’s Recommendations:

Poem:

The Peace of Wild Things – Wendell Berry

When despair for the world grows in me

and I wake in the night at the least sound

in fear of what my life and my children’s lives may be,

I go and lie down where the wood drake

rests in his beauty on the water, and the great heron feeds.

I come into the peace of wild things

who do not tax their lives with forethought

of grief. I come into the presence of still water.

And I feel above me the day-blind stars

waiting with their light. For a time

I rest in the grace of the world, and am free.

Book:

Healing After Loss – Martha Whitmore Hickman

“It helped me feel connected to everyone who has ever lost someone they love. Now I give it to anyone I know who's grieving.”

Listening:

“I found reading hard after Pete died, but audiobooks helped me escape. I'm slowly returning to reading again.”

Art:

Joseph Cornell – “His magical boxes, half-game, half-mystery, still captivate me.”

Biographies:

“I love reading about overlooked or misunderstood women in history – Lee Miller, Catherine the Great…”

Podcasts:

The Curious History of the Home – “Everyday objects, with extraordinary stories. Fascinating.”

And finally:

“My son Leo is an artist I deeply admire. He’s represented by Annet Gelink in Amsterdam.”

Rosie Arnold, BBH, Deputy Executive Creative Director, women in advertising, creative leadership, menopause in the workplace, D&AD White Pencil, advertising industry, women in creative industries, authentic leadership, career longevity, life after advertising, reinvention, female leadership, creativity and identity, empowerment podcast, women in leadership, workplace culture, social impact, emotional intelligence

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the emPOWER Podcast, Athene Parker is joined by award-winning Executive Creative Director Sue Higgs for a vibrant, honest and deeply insightful conversation about creativity, resilience, leadership and speaking out against workplace bullying in the advertising industry.

With a career spanning more than 25 years in advertising, Sue reflects on navigating creative leadership whilst raising three children as a solo mother through the fast-paced ad industry of the 90s, noughties and beyond. Her story is one of determination, humour, creativity and emotional resilience.

Sue also speaks candidly about her experience of extreme workplace bullying and coercive behaviour during her time as a Creative Director — experiences that occurred long before the #MeToo movement gave many women the language and confidence to articulate inappropriate behaviour within professional environments.

Rather than allowing those experiences to define her, Sue chose to speak openly about what happened, writing a series of powerful industry articles as part of her healing process. The response revealed just how widespread workplace bullying was across the advertising and creative industries, with both men and women sharing similar experiences of toxicity, intimidation and emotional harm.

Together, Athene and Sue discuss:

• Creative leadership and resilience
• Workplace bullying and coercive behaviour
• Women in advertising and creative industries
• Solo motherhood and balancing career with family life
• Emotional resilience and healing through expression
• Speaking out and challenging toxic workplace culture
• Leadership, vulnerability and authenticity
• Creativity, confidence and career longevity

This is a vulnerable and human conversation. An empowering and ultimately uplifting conversation about resilience, honesty and finding strength through adversity.

The chat is woven around a trip down a musical memory lane. Sit back, relax and enjoy. 🎧✨

Tracks:

1. Carpenters - Close To You
2. Visage - Fade To Grey
3. Primal Scream - Come Together
4. Jimmy Webb - Wichita Lineman
5. David Bowie - 5 years

The emPOWER Breakfast - Sue Higgs Spotify Playlist 

We cover topics from solo parenting to bullying - if you are experiencing bullying in the workplace, be sure to find allies and tell them what is going on and if you don’t feel like there is anyone in the immediate community you can talk to please go to the National Bullying Helpline for confidential advice. Sue says bullies like to operate in the shade so bring it into the open…

Here is a note from Sue as to things she loves.

Books I love are:

• The Year of Magical thinking by Joan Didion
• Boudica by Dr Vanessa Collingridge (I went to school with her)
• Electric Kool-Aid Acid Test by Tom Wolfe
• Why Has No One Told Me This Before? by Dr Julia Smith
• The Prophet by Kahlil Gibran

Podcasts I love:

The Rest is Entertainment 

How to Fail With Elizabeth Day

Where There's a Will There's A Wake with Kathy Burke

Desert Island Discs

The emPOWER Breakfast (natch!) 

TV:

Brassic

Loaded Documentary 

Wham Documentary

Myth Country 

... could go on forever!

Sue Higgs, Executive Creative Director, women in advertising, workplace bullying, advertising industry, creative leadership, emotional resilience, #MeToo, women in creative industries, toxic workplace culture, coercive behaviour, solo motherhood, authentic leadership, leadership podcast, emotional wellbeing, workplace trauma, empowerment podcast, career longevity, resilience, speaking out

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

In this episode of the emPOWER Breakfast Podcast, Athene Parker is joined by Mays Al Ali, former Executive Producer and TV Producer turned Certified Nutritionist and Naturopath, for a deeply personal and inspiring conversation about healing, transformation, burnout and rebuilding life after chronic stress and trauma.

After an 18-year career in the advertising and production industries, Mays experienced a major health crisis that became the catalyst for an extraordinary personal and professional transformation. Having navigated childhood trauma, rebellion in her teenage years and the fast-paced, often hedonistic culture of advertising in the noughties, Mays reflects openly on the emotional and physical toll chronic stress had on her wellbeing.

Determined to heal and reconnect with herself, Mays made the life-changing decision to leave the industry, move to India, retrain as a yoga teacher and completely overhaul her physical, emotional and mental health.

Now holding a Masters in Clinical Nutrition, Mays specialises in gut health, hormone balancing, post-cancer nutrition support, lab and genetic testing, and works closely with clients through one-to-one coaching and wellness retreats in Mallorca and Ibiza.

With warmth, honesty and spiritual insight, Mays shares her belief in intuition, higher guidance and the importance of following the path that feels truly aligned, even when it requires letting go of the life you once knew or expected.

Together, Athene and Mays discuss:

• Burnout, stress and healing
• Career pivots and reinvention
• Nutrition, gut health and hormone balance
• Trauma, emotional wellbeing and recovery
• Spirituality, intuition and personal growth
• Wellness and holistic health
• Leaving advertising and rebuilding identity
• Authenticity and following your true path

This is a powerful conversation about transformation, resilience and the courage it takes to completely change your life in pursuit of healing and alignment.

The chat is woven around a trip down a musical memory lane. Sit back, relax and enjoy. 🎧✨

Track 1 - Aha - Take On Me

Track 2 - Roy Ayers - Everybody Loves the Sunshine

Track 3 - Ram Dass Aware - Heart Takes Flight

Track 4 - Alexia Chellun - The Power is Here Now

Track 5 - Depeche Mode - Just Can’t Get Enough

The emPOWER Breakfast - Mays Al Ali Spotify Playlist 

Here are some resources picked by Mays to share with you. 

Mays loves to listen to Great Dr Joe Podcast.

Dr Gabor Maté's podcast on trauma and healing.

A 9D breathwork sequence.

Max Ström Ted Talk on the importance of 478 breath with a practice at the end.

Content that Mays has created:

May’s blog has all her favourite healthy recipes:

www.healthymays.com/blog 

May's podcast on liver detox:

https://www.cnmpodcast.com/liver-health-detoxification/ 

May's podcast on cravings:

https://www.cnmpodcast.com/how-to-deal-with-sugar-cravings-blood-sugar-balance-with-mays-al-ali/ 

A Mays Al Ali Yoga Nidra recording 30 mins for sleep:

https://on.soundcloud.com/tY8H8GSdhXhJUz5Z6

Mays Al Ali, nutritionist, naturopath, gut health, hormone balancing, burnout recovery, healing journey, wellness, trauma recovery, advertising industry burnout, career pivot, holistic health, emotional wellbeing, women in advertising, personal transformation, empowerment podcast, spirituality, intuition, chronic stress, authentic living, wellness retreats

The emPOWER Breakfast is Founded and Hosted by Athene Parker

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

With a rich background spanning dance, theatre and the arts, Selma has dedicated her career to challenging the lack of representation on screen and within casting. Her journey toward founding Looks Like Me Casting began in 2015 after a profound moment with her then three-year-old daughter, who questioned why nobody on screen “looks like me.”

Long before diversity and inclusion became mainstream industry conversations, Selma was already pioneering change, championing authentic representation. Alongside her work as a Casting Director, Selma is also a proud board member of Punchdrunk Entertainment and continues to advocate passionately for visibility, opportunity and equity across the arts. Selma reflects on the realities of building a business as a single mother, navigating personal and professional challenges.

Together, Athene and Selma discuss:

• Representation and diversity in casting
• Inclusion within advertising, film and the arts
• Women founders and creative leadership
• Resilience and navigating adversity
• Motherhood and entrepreneurship
• Identity, visibility and belonging
• Challenging industry norms and creating change
• Authentic storytelling and representation on screen

Selma’s work has been recognised with multiple industry honours including:

• Black British Theatre Awards – Best Casting Director Recognition
• Casting Directors Association Awards – Best Casting of a Live Performance (Rumble in the Jungle)
• Casting Directors Association Awards – Best Casting of Open Media (Queen Charlotte Global Orchestra Promo)

A woman who has been no stranger to challenges, Selma has also navigated deeply traumatic experiences that profoundly impacted both her confidence and her relationship with performance and movement in her earlier years. As a single mother, business founder and pioneer in this field, she has channelled those experiences into purpose, creativity and advocacy -bringing warmth, optimism and generosity to everything she does.

The chat is woven around a trip down a musical memory lane. Sit back, relax and enjoy. 🎧✨

Awards:

Black British Theatre Awards - Best Casting Director Recognition 

Casting Directors Association Awards - Best Casting of a Live Performance 'Rumble in the Jungle'

Casting Directors Association Awards - Best Casting of an Open Media 'Queen Charlotte Global Orchestra Promo'

The chat is weaved around a trip down a musical memory lane. Sit back, relax and enjoy! 

Track 1 - Rasta Medley - Groundation - Nyabinghi Drumming of Jamaica 

Track 2 - Kirk Franklin (Love Theory) 

Track 3 - Cutty Ranks (Who Say Me Dun) 

Track 4 - Erykah Badu (Bag Lady)

Track 5 - Little Simz (Point And Kill feat. Obongjayar)

Track 6 - Nina Simone (Here Comes The Sun)

The emPOWER Breakfast - Selma Nicholls Spotify Playlist

Books:

Be More Human - Rethinking the Rules of High-Performance Teamwork, by Caspar Craven

Ego is the Enemy - The Fight to Master Our Greatest Opponent, by Ryan Holiday

48 Laws of Power, by Robert Greene

Masterclasses and Podcasts:

LOVE all Masterclasses, especially Spike Lee, Issa Rae, Serena Williams, Chris Voss https://www.masterclass.com

Love https://www.youtube.com/c/YourAuntiesCouldNever https://www.youtube.com/@TheDiaryOfACEO

Selma Nicholls, Looks Like Me Casting, diversity in casting, representation in media, inclusive casting, women in film, women in advertising, Black British creatives, diversity and inclusion, authentic storytelling, casting director, creative leadership, women founders, resilience, empowerment podcast, representation on screen, creative industries, motherhood and entrepreneurship, inclusion in advertising, belonging and identity

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Jody speaks candidly about experiencing a major mental health crisis in her early thirties and reflects on the rehabilitation journey that followed, a turning point that forced her to confront unresolved experiences from childhood and ultimately reshape the direction of her life.

With warmth, humour and honesty, Jody shares how what initially felt like devastation became an opportunity for profound personal growth, healing and self-understanding.

In more recent years, Jody has also navigated breast cancer with the same courage, positivity and perspective that have come to define her approach to life’s challenges. Throughout the conversation, she reflects on resilience, recovery and the importance of slowing down, reconnecting with joy and finding meaning in everyday moments.

Together, Athene and Jody discuss:

• Mental health and emotional wellbeing
• Breakdown, recovery and rehabilitation
• Childhood trauma and personal growth
• Breast cancer and resilience
• Women in production and advertising
• Emotional honesty and healing
• Creativity, perspective and self-awareness
• Finding joy and gratitude through adversity

This is a moving, funny and deeply human conversation about survival, healing and learning to rebuild life with greater clarity, compassion and authenticity.

The chat is woven around a trip down a musical memory lane. Sit back, relax and enjoy. 🎧✨

Tracks:

1. Second Hand News - Fleetwood Mac - Rumours 
2. Roxanne - The Police - Outlandos d'Amour
3. She Talks To Angels - The Black Crowes - Shake Your Money Maker 
4. Unwell - Matchbox Twenty - More Than You Think You Are.
5. Strong - Romy and Fred Again 

The emPOWER Breakfast - Jody Allison Spotify Playlist

Jody Mentions:

CBT - Cognitive Behavioural Therapy

CBT is based on the idea that thoughts, feelings, and actions are connected, and that changing one can change the others. CBT helps people identify negative or inaccurate thinking patterns, and then teaches them strategies to respond to challenging situations more effectively. It is most commonly used to treat anxiety and depression.

Mental Health - https://www.mentalhealth.org.uk/

Positivity - We talk about the power of positivity and not a toxic ‘everything is fine’ kind of positivity but a ‘trusting of the path’, and your instincts, and facing the hard stuff head on that creates a sense of positive progress, despite having to go through the difficult ‘stuff’ - positive people tend to be better at managing stress, bounce back more quickly after setbacks, and are more adaptable to change. Cultivating a practice of gratitude can do wonders for the mindset.

If you are experiencing mental wellness challenges, please don’t battle through it on your own. There are organisations you can reach out to like the Samaritans - and although you might not feel like it, in fact it could be the last thing you want to do, please consider reaching out to a friend or family member and let them know how you are feeling. A challenge shared is a challenge halved. There really is help out there, and you are worthy of it.

Jody Allison, Heads Up Production, mental health, mental health recovery, breakdown and recovery, breast cancer survivor, emotional wellbeing, trauma recovery, women in production, advertising industry, emotional resilience, rehabilitation, authentic leadership, personal growth, women in media, empowerment podcast, healing journey, creativity and resilience, emotional honesty, recovery and wellbeing

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

An infamous figure within the advertising and marketing industries, Nishma reflects on her experience of growing up facing racism, and the lasting psychological impact this had on her identity and confidence, and her ongoing journey toward understanding herself whilst navigating senior leadership roles within high-pressure corporate environments.

After a career helping shape brand reputation and leadership culture at one of the world’s biggest companies, Google, Nishma made the necessary decision to step away from corporate life and create something more aligned with her values, of purpose and vision for hers, and women’s empowerment.

Now founder of The Glittersphere, a membership community focused on opportunity and financial independence, Nishma shares the emotional and professional transformation behind her “second act” her divorce at 50 and why building visibility and support for women has become central to her mission.

Together, Athene and Nishma discuss:

• Racism and identity
• Anxiety, mental health and emotional wellbeing
• Leadership and navigating corporate culture
• Women in advertising and marketing
• Career pivots and second acts
• Community, networking and empowerment
• Authentic leadership and resilience
• Financial independence and women supporting women, which is clearly a topic close to her heart.

This is an insightful conversation about reinvention, self-love and creating a life and career rooted in ambition, opportunity and connections.

The chat is woven around a trip down a musical memory lane. Sit back, relax and enjoy. 🎧✨

Tracks:

1. Donna Summer - I Feel Love
2. The Fugees - Killing Me Softly
3. Mary J. Blige - My Life
4. Angie Stone - Wish I Didn’t Miss You
5. Sophie Lloyd feat. Dames Brown - Calling Out

Nishma Patel Robb Spotify Playlist

Topics Covered:

Racism: Nishma talked about her experience of racism and the impact of the Channel 4 Dispatches programme Defiance - Fighting The Far Right - Channel 4 on demand.

Menopause: Athene and Nishma touched on menopause and The Louise Newson Clinic, a specialist private clinic for menopause health. Many women, including both Athene and Nishma, have found HRT life-changing.

If HRT isn’t an option, lifestyle changes like cutting caffeine and sugar, mindfulness, and slowing down your responses can help manage symptoms. Nishma highlighted the mental health challenges linked to perimenopause, including anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation, and shared helpful articles:

The Independent: Fear of Being Labelled Hysterical: 1 in 10 Women Experience Suicidal Thoughts Due to Perimenopause

Menopause Support UK: Study on depression/suicide in perimenopause

Nishma also shared her experience with panic attacks. The NHS provides resources for managing symptoms, and holistic strategies like mindfulness, movement, and professional nutritional guidance.

If you are struggling with depression or intrusive/suicidal thoughts, talk to someone—either your GP or groups who can support you. Reach out to friends who may have similar experiences.

Remember, there are ways to support yourself - HRT, coaching, nutrition, and moving your body. You will get through this. Athene x

Julia Leckey:

Nishma spoke about her friend, coach, and author Julia Leckey, who helped her find a new career path. Nishma recommends Julia’s book:

Think Fearlessly to Grow Wealthy

Nishma Patel Robbs, Google, WACL, The Glittersphere, racism, anxiety, women in leadership, women in advertising, emotional wellbeing, leadership, career reinvention, second act careers, women supporting women, financial empowerment, leadership podcast, women in marketing, resilience, empowerment podcast, mental health, corporate leadership

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

After decades working at the highest levels of the advertising and production industries, Leila reflects on how receiving her autism diagnosis at the age of 48 fundamentally reshaped her understanding of herself, her career and the way she had navigated the world throughout her life.

An award-winning producer and operational leader, Leila’s work has been recognised by D&AD, British Arrows, Creative Circle and Campaign Big Awards, alongside a reputation for driving creative excellence whilst helping agencies build healthier, more effective and more sustainable ways of working.

With warmth, intelligence and candour, Leila shares her experience of navigating leadership, burnout, masking and workplace dynamics through the lens of late-diagnosed autism and why becoming more open about her neurodivergence has made her an even fiercer advocate for hidden voices within the creative industries.

Together, Athene and Leila discuss:

• Late-diagnosed autism and neurodiversity
• Neurodivergent leadership in advertising
• Burnout, masking and mental health
• Women with autism and identity
• Workplace culture and staff advocacy
• Creative leadership and operational excellence
• Emotional resilience and self-discovery
• Building healthier environments for neurodivergent staff

As both a leader and passionate advocate for neurodivergent inclusion, Leila continues to champion more compassionate, supportive and psychologically safe workplaces across the advertising and production industries with th elaunch of AdND a support network for the neurodivergent workforce in advertising and media. Please go to her LinkedIn page to join the call.

This is a thoughtful, empowering and deeply hilarious conversation about identity, understanding yourself later in life and the freedom that can come from finally seeing yourself clearly.

The chat is woven around a trip down a musical memory lane. Sit back, relax and enjoy. 🎧✨

Track 1 You can go your own way - Fleetwood Mac- Rumours 

Track 2 Inbetween Days - The Cure - Head on The Door

Track 3 Dreams by The Cranberries - The Collection 

Track 4 Shostakovich - Symphony Number 5 - The fourth movement Allegro Non Troppo

Track 5 State of Grace - Taylor Swift - Red

The emPOWER Breakfast - Leila Bartlam Spotify Playlist

Leila Mentions:

Melanie Sykes autobiography Illuminated

Noise Canceling Headphones:

More expensive:

https://www.bose.co.uk/en_gb/products/headphones/earbuds/bose-quietcomfort-earbuds-ultra.html#v=QCUE-HEADPHONEIN-LBLU-WW

Less expensive:

https://www.loopearplugs.com/products/quiet-plus

Mind Mapping Software: Mind Manager 

Book: Highly Sensitive People 

Leila Bartlam, Accenture Song, LB&co, autism diagnosis, late diagnosed autism, neurodiversity, neurodivergent leadership, women with autism, advertising industry, burnout, masking, emotional wellbeing, workplace culture, neurodivergent advocacy, women in advertising, creative leadership, mental health, empowerment podcast, authentic leadership, neurodivergent staff support, self-discovery

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.