In this conversation with Jo, Minoti reflects on failure and the lifelong process of proving yourself. She explores how cultural norms, migration and gender have influenced her confidence and ambitions. 

This episode is for anyone who’s ever felt they didn’t quite fit the room. Minoti’s honesty and insight will inspire you to swim against the tide of self-doubt and define success on your own terms. 

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In this conversation with Jo, Penny explores what feminism means today, the growing backlash against it, and the realities of leading a legacy organisation in a complex political climate. She speaks openly about people-pleasing and what it takes to live feminist values in real life. 

If you care about equality or staying true to your principles, this episode is for you. Penny’s clarity will inspire you to swim against the tide of complacency. 

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In this conversation with Jo, Amy shares how frustration, love and determination fuelled her leap into entrepreneurship. She talks about challenging powerful industries, navigating doubt, and building a business driven by care rather than convenience. 

If you’ve ever turned a personal struggle into a call to action, this episode will speak to you. Amy’s story will inspire you to swim against the tide of broken systems and build what’s missing. 

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In this conversation with Jo, Aida shares her journey from commercial law to social impact, and the experiences that helped her reconnect with her values. She reflects on self-doubt and why clarity of purpose matters more than status or certainty. 

This episode is for anyone feeling stuck. Aida’s story will inspire you to swim against the tide of expectation and choose work that truly aligns with who you are. 

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Natsayi talks to Jo about how her upbringing, politics and passion for activism intersect. She speaks candidly about power and what it means to lead at a time when old patterns of exclusion are re-emerging. 

This episode is a compelling listen for anyone grappling with questions of justice and responsibility. Natsayi’s perspective will inspire you to swim against the tide of apathy and use your power more courageously. 

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In this conversation with Jo, Sarah reflects on growing up in North London, navigating leadership as a working-class woman, and her own experiences of mental ill health and a late ADHD diagnosis. She speaks powerfully about authenticity, feminist leadership and leading with humanity. 

This episode is a must-listen for anyone thinking about power, class and wellbeing at work. Sarah’s story will inspire you to swim against the tide of performative leadership and lead with compassion. 

Content warning: Sarah and Jo cover issues of mental health and suicide. Remember you can always reach out to Mind for help and support

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Against the Tide is a celebration of courageous women who defy expectations to create lasting impact by daring to forge their own paths their stories and their wisdom.

We’ll dive into powerful themes such as: 

the complexity of identity and how it influences the choices we make; 

embracing change even when it feels uncomfortable; and  

how breaking free from labels can unlock your true potential. 

Join me, Jo Metcalfe, to hear stories of incredible women who, by swimming against the tide, prove that extraordinary things can happen.  

Ready to be bold and swim against the tide with us? 

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

Determined to make a difference, she launched Zarach to provide beds and essential resources to children living in poverty, ensuring they get the rest they need to thrive. Bex is a leading advocate for breaking the cycle of poverty, driven by her passion for education and social justice. 

In this conversation with Jo, Bex shares her story, the values that inspire her, and the impact of Zarach's mission. She opens up about the challenges and triumphs of her work, the importance of community support, and the power of a good night's sleep. 

Whether you're passionate about education or seeking to make a difference in your community, Bex's story will give you the courage to speak up and demand change for others. This conversation will leave you feeling ready to swim against the tide of society’s biggest challenges.  

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In this conversation, Holly shares her story, the principles that drive her, and the importance of financial confidence for personal and professional growth. Whether you're looking to elevate your career, improve your money mindset, or find the inspiration to pursue your ambitions, Holly's story will resonate. This conversation will inspire you to swim against the tide of financial fear.  

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In this conversation, Tanya opens up about the mindset and principles that sustained her, and about learning to embrace what makes her different. 

Whether you're pushing boundaries in your own field or seeking inspiration when the odds are stacked against you, Tanya shows us that true success belongs to those who dare to forge their own path. This conversation will leave you feeling ready to swim against the tide of society’s expectations.  

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Throughout their journey, Lindsey showed remarkable courage and unwavering dedication to Rob. Her story is one of love, and the power of positivity in the face of adversity. 

In this moving conversation, Lindsey shares the experiences that shaped her, the values that keep her grounded, and the lessons she has learned along the way. She opens up about the challenge and privilege of caregiving and how she found respite in running. Whether you are navigating grief or seeking perspective, Lindsey's story is a testament to the strength of love and compassion.  

This conversation will leave you feeling reinvigorated to swim against the tide for those we care about.  

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

Throughout her career, Beth has focused on developing people in leadership and transition points, helping them navigate their journeys with confidence and clarity. At the same time, she’s experienced deep personal struggles and growth. In this conversation, Beth opens up about the challenges of constantly swimming against the tide, and the transformative power of leaning into discomfort. 

If you're looking to enhance your leadership skills or explore new avenues, Beth's path to understanding herself will inspire you. This conversation will leave you ready to face the difficult things you’ve been avoiding - and determined to swim against the tide.  

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When she’s not shaping global businesses, you can find her on the dance floor or lifting very heavy weights. She's constantly pushing the limits of her body and mind. So, join us as we delve into Bindi’s rich heritage and explore how her background has shaped her personal and professional superpowers. 

In this energising conversation, we explore the personal experiences behind Bindi's professional success – and how the things that hold us back can become the source of our greatest strength.

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In this episode, Caroline shares the findings of her recent report, We Need to Talk About Culture, which asks if culture is so critical to growth, why isn’t it given the same strategic focus as reputation, or products? Tune in to learn more about Caroline's insightful and practical 8-point guide to making workplace culture a priority.

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In this important conversation, Fozia shares how a lifetime of swimming against the tide can create both personal and societal change.

Please be aware this episode references gender based violence and sexual abuse - it may be triggering for some listeners.

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Dr. Jenn Gandhi, is a Chartered Psychologist and the lead for mental health and wellbeing at the Football Association and Dr. Jennifer Lace, also a Chartered Psychologist, focuses on performance psychology. Most recently, Dr Lace led on psychology for the Football League Managers Association.

Together, they are change-makers, inspiring and influencing the future of mental health and performance wellbeing in sports. Join us as we delve into their journeys, uncovering the surprising drivers behind their careers and discussing the challenges and opportunities of navigating a male-dominated environment.

This episode references eating disorders and may be triggering for some listeners.

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Abigail the 130th Lord Mayor and the first woman of African heritage to hold this prestigious position in Leeds, draws inspiration from her father and her faith. She is also an accomplished athlete and coach, a governor at Leeds City College, and a dedicated trustee for organisations like Age UK and Caring Together. Additionally, she serves as Co-Chair of the David Oluwale Memorial Association.

With a passionate commitment to people and a drive for inspiring change, Abigail uses her platform to make a lasting impact in her community. She is truly a force to admire.  

Join us as we explore what it means to be a woman of colour in leadership and what motivates Abigail to champion those without a voice in her city. This is a powerful discussion you won’t want to miss, as we get to know one of Leeds' remarkable leaders.

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Both embody a spirit of empowerment and together they’ve tackled big challenges like homelessness and mental health in sport, blending innovation and evidence-based approaches to drive lasting change. 

Known for their generosity in leadership and commitment to enabling others, Danielle and Isabelle don’t just challenge the status quo - they redefine it. In a refreshingly candid conversation, they open up about 'imposter' thoughts, balancing career with personal life and how their backgrounds shape their perspectives and actions.

Get ready for an inspiring discussion that promises to leave you motivated to swim against the tide!

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More than a podcast, Against the Tide is a celebration of the courageous women who defy expectations to create lasting impact by daring to forge their own path.

We’ll dive deep into powerful themes such as:

• embracing discomfort for transformative change;
• how your past needn’t determine your future; and 
• how breaking free from societal labels unlocks your true potential.

Join me, Jo Metcalfe, to hear stories of incredible women who, by swimming against the tide, prove that extraordinary things can happen.

Ready to be inspired?

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