60 acast.com The LEADing Edge https://shows.acast.com/leading-edge en LEAD Network LEAD Network A LEAD Network Podcast Welcome to The LEADing Edge, the podcast of LEAD Network


In this podcast, we explore strategies for advancing gender equity and inclusion in the workplace through innovative ideas and insightful conversations. In each episode, our hosts, Allyson Zimmermann and Sarah McGowan, are joined by leaders from the Consumer Goods and Retail industry who are making a tangible impact on creating a more inclusive world. 


LEAD Network is a non-profit organization with a mission to attract, retain and advance women in the Consumer Goods & Retail industry, creating sustainable business value. With over 22,000 Members and over 65 corporate Partners, we are committed to building a diverse and equitable workforce where everyone can contribute and grow, and organisations thrive. Discover how you can be part of this transformative movement by visiting theleadnetwork.net.


Allyson Zimmermann is the CEO of LEAD Network. Sarah McGowan is a HR consultant and strategic advisor with over 25 years of industry experience. 

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

]]> Welcome to The LEADing Edge, the podcast of LEAD Network


In this podcast, we explore strategies for advancing gender equity and inclusion in the workplace through innovative ideas and insightful conversations. In each episode, our hosts, Allyson Zimmermann and Sarah McGowan, are joined by leaders from the Consumer Goods and Retail industry who are making a tangible impact on creating a more inclusive world. 


LEAD Network is a non-profit organization with a mission to attract, retain and advance women in the Consumer Goods & Retail industry, creating sustainable business value. With over 22,000 Members and over 65 corporate Partners, we are committed to building a diverse and equitable workforce where everyone can contribute and grow, and organisations thrive. Discover how you can be part of this transformative movement by visiting theleadnetwork.net.


Allyson Zimmermann is the CEO of LEAD Network. Sarah McGowan is a HR consultant and strategic advisor with over 25 years of industry experience. 

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

]]> false LEAD Network info+65575fc75c5f6900126e6888@mg-eu.acast.com 65575fc75c5f6900126e6888 leading-edge episodic https://assets.pippa.io/shows/65575fc75c5f6900126e6888/1717504711637-d60cf8cc27be8f65ae5bd1b6a594c029.jpeg https://shows.acast.com/leading-edge The LEADing Edge Courage in Leadership Courage in Leadership Fri, 20 Mar 2026 10:07:18 GMT 24:48 69baa236b64f8985feb2f415 false https://shows.acast.com/leading-edge/episodes/courage-in-leadership 69baa236b64f8985feb2f415 65575fc75c5f6900126e6888 courage-in-leadership full 3 1 Allyson Zimmermann and Sarah McGowan challenge the common idea that courage in leadership has to be bold and visible. Instead, they argue that real courage is often quiet, relational, and easy to overlook. But crucially, the episode doesn’t just redefine courage; it offers clear, actionable ways to practise it.


With Begoña Jiménez, Global Corporate Vice President at Henkel.


References:


Brescoll, V. L. (2011). Who takes the floor and why: Gender, power, and volubility in organizations. Administrative Science Quarterly, 56(4), 622–641. https://doi.org/10.1177/0001839212439994

Detert, J. R. (2018). Cultivating everyday courage. Harvard Business Review, 96(6), 128–135.

https://hbr.org/2018/11/cultivating-everyday-courage

Detert, J. R., & Bruno, E. A. (2017). Workplace courage: Review, synthesis, and future agenda for a complex construct. Academy of Management Annals, 11(2), 593–639. https://doi.org/10.5465/annals.2015.0155

Grant, A. M. (2013). Rocking the boat but keeping it steady: The role of emotion regulation in employee voice. Academy of Management Journal, 56(6), 1703–1723. https://doi.org/10.5465/amj.2011.0035

Harbour, M., & Kisfalvi, V. (2014). In the eye of the beholder: An exploration of managerial courage. Journal of Business Ethics, 119(4), 493–515. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10551-013-1835-7

Howard, M. C., & Fox, F. R. (2020). Does gender have a significant relationship with social courage? Test of dual sequentially mediated pathways. Personality and Individual Differences, 159, 109904. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.paid.2020.109904

Kennedy, J. A., Kray, L. J., & Ku, G. (2017). A social-cognitive approach to understanding gender differences in negotiator ethics: The role of moral identity. Organizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes, 138, 28–44. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.obhdp.2016.11.003

Ogunfowora, B., Maerz, A., & Varty, C. T. (2021). How do leaders foster morally courageous behavior in employees? Leader role modeling, moral ownership, and felt obligation. Journal of Organizational Behavior, 42(4), 483-503.

Tremmel, M., & Wahl, I. (2023). Gender stereotypes in leadership: Analyzing the content and evaluation of stereotypes about typical, male, and female leaders. Frontiers in Psychology, 14, 1034258. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1034258

Tkachenko, O. (2018). Courage in the workplace: The effects of organizational level and gender on the relationship between behavioral courage and job performance. https://doi.org/10.1017/JMO.2018.12

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

]]> Allyson Zimmermann and Sarah McGowan challenge the common idea that courage in leadership has to be bold and visible. Instead, they argue that real courage is often quiet, relational, and easy to overlook. But crucially, the episode doesn’t just redefine courage; it offers clear, actionable ways to practise it.


With Begoña Jiménez, Global Corporate Vice President at Henkel.


References:


Brescoll, V. L. (2011). Who takes the floor and why: Gender, power, and volubility in organizations. Administrative Science Quarterly, 56(4), 622–641. https://doi.org/10.1177/0001839212439994

Detert, J. R. (2018). Cultivating everyday courage. Harvard Business Review, 96(6), 128–135.

https://hbr.org/2018/11/cultivating-everyday-courage

Detert, J. R., & Bruno, E. A. (2017). Workplace courage: Review, synthesis, and future agenda for a complex construct. Academy of Management Annals, 11(2), 593–639. https://doi.org/10.5465/annals.2015.0155

Grant, A. M. (2013). Rocking the boat but keeping it steady: The role of emotion regulation in employee voice. Academy of Management Journal, 56(6), 1703–1723. https://doi.org/10.5465/amj.2011.0035

Harbour, M., & Kisfalvi, V. (2014). In the eye of the beholder: An exploration of managerial courage. Journal of Business Ethics, 119(4), 493–515. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10551-013-1835-7

Howard, M. C., & Fox, F. R. (2020). Does gender have a significant relationship with social courage? Test of dual sequentially mediated pathways. Personality and Individual Differences, 159, 109904. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.paid.2020.109904

Kennedy, J. A., Kray, L. J., & Ku, G. (2017). A social-cognitive approach to understanding gender differences in negotiator ethics: The role of moral identity. Organizational Behavior and Human Decision Processes, 138, 28–44. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.obhdp.2016.11.003

Ogunfowora, B., Maerz, A., & Varty, C. T. (2021). How do leaders foster morally courageous behavior in employees? Leader role modeling, moral ownership, and felt obligation. Journal of Organizational Behavior, 42(4), 483-503.

Tremmel, M., & Wahl, I. (2023). Gender stereotypes in leadership: Analyzing the content and evaluation of stereotypes about typical, male, and female leaders. Frontiers in Psychology, 14, 1034258. https://doi.org/10.3389/fpsyg.2023.1034258

Tkachenko, O. (2018). Courage in the workplace: The effects of organizational level and gender on the relationship between behavioral courage and job performance. https://doi.org/10.1017/JMO.2018.12

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

]]> Best of the 2025 Conference Best of the 2025 Conference Fri, 19 Dec 2025 09:40:48 GMT 34:04 694518fe9a00ace34f1cf459 false https://shows.acast.com/leading-edge/episodes/best-of-the-conference-1-leadership-insights 694518fe9a00ace34f1cf459 65575fc75c5f6900126e6888 best-of-the-conference-1-leadership-insights full 3 2 Allyson Zimmermann brings you key insights from our 2025 conference in Milan, exploring what inclusive leadership really looks like in today’s environment.


Featuring insights from Paolo Grue, President and CEO of Procter & Gamble Italy; Begoña Jiménez, CVP Global Laundry, Henkel Consumer Brands; Francesco Del Porto, President, Italy Region, and Global Chief Customer Officer, Barilla Group; Amri B. Johnson, CEO of Inclusive Wins; Jérôme Garbi, Global Cheese CO & CEO for EMEAO, Bel Group; Mariama Conteh, Senior Inclusion & Diversity, Mars UK; and Charlotte Exell, Group Online Director, Morrisons.


Podcast producer: Julien Manuguerra-Patten

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

]]> Allyson Zimmermann brings you key insights from our 2025 conference in Milan, exploring what inclusive leadership really looks like in today’s environment.


Featuring insights from Paolo Grue, President and CEO of Procter & Gamble Italy; Begoña Jiménez, CVP Global Laundry, Henkel Consumer Brands; Francesco Del Porto, President, Italy Region, and Global Chief Customer Officer, Barilla Group; Amri B. Johnson, CEO of Inclusive Wins; Jérôme Garbi, Global Cheese CO & CEO for EMEAO, Bel Group; Mariama Conteh, Senior Inclusion & Diversity, Mars UK; and Charlotte Exell, Group Online Director, Morrisons.


Podcast producer: Julien Manuguerra-Patten

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

]]> Opening the Conversation on Menopause Opening the Conversation on Menopause Tue, 25 Nov 2025 14:36:54 GMT 27:08 691f42ff4105c9a0212af0f9 false https://shows.acast.com/leading-edge/episodes/opening-the-conversation-on-menopause 691f42ff4105c9a0212af0f9 65575fc75c5f6900126e6888 opening-the-conversation-on-menopause full 2 7 In this episode, Sarah McGowan and Allyson Zimmermann sit down for a real, open conversation about menopause at work; a topic that’s still too often left out of DEI discussions. Millions of women in mid to late career face the complex transition of perimenopause and menopause, often dealing with symptoms in silence due to stigma. Allyson and Sarah explore the real impacts of menopause on women's careers and businesses and share their own experiences.


With Clarice Pinto, CEO of Pausetiv

Catherine Mulhall, Reckitt

Nóirín Ní Laocha, Musgrave


Thanks to the panellists who participated to our discussion in Milan on Smashing the Stigma of Menopause in the Worplace - Nóirín Ní Laocha, Catherine Mulhall, Rose Cox, Nadia Zagui and John Bradbury. 


Please note: this conversation reflects personal and professional experiences of individuals, not medical guidance. Menopause is different for everyone, and listeners should seek advice from qualified healthcare professionals for individual concerns.

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

]]> In this episode, Sarah McGowan and Allyson Zimmermann sit down for a real, open conversation about menopause at work; a topic that’s still too often left out of DEI discussions. Millions of women in mid to late career face the complex transition of perimenopause and menopause, often dealing with symptoms in silence due to stigma. Allyson and Sarah explore the real impacts of menopause on women's careers and businesses and share their own experiences.


With Clarice Pinto, CEO of Pausetiv

Catherine Mulhall, Reckitt

Nóirín Ní Laocha, Musgrave


Thanks to the panellists who participated to our discussion in Milan on Smashing the Stigma of Menopause in the Worplace - Nóirín Ní Laocha, Catherine Mulhall, Rose Cox, Nadia Zagui and John Bradbury. 


Please note: this conversation reflects personal and professional experiences of individuals, not medical guidance. Menopause is different for everyone, and listeners should seek advice from qualified healthcare professionals for individual concerns.

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

]]> Beyond the Business Case - The Why of DEI Beyond the Business Case - The Why of DEI Tue, 30 Sep 2025 09:21:01 GMT 24:18 68d6a2a32552b72c20fbca2f false https://shows.acast.com/leading-edge/episodes/beyond-the-business-case-the-why-of-dei 68d6a2a32552b72c20fbca2f 65575fc75c5f6900126e6888 beyond-the-business-case-the-why-of-dei full 2 6 For decades, the “business case” for diversity, equity, and inclusion has shaped the conversation. The data is clear: diverse organizations often outperform their peers; but despite this, progress hasn’t always matched the promise.


So in this episode, Allyson Zimmermann and Sarah McGowan go beyond the numbers. Instead of asking whether DEI works - we know it does! - we’re asking why it works. What are the mechanisms that make DEI effective? What actually happens inside diverse teams that leads to better performance, sharper decisions, and stronger leadership? To explore this, we turn to academic research that doesn’t often make its way into boardrooms but offers powerful insights for leaders and HR professionals in consumer goods, retail, and beyond.


🔗 References mentioned in this episode:


Thanks to New York University (NYU), the Center for Workplace Excellence at the University of South Australia and Professor Jenny Hubler for providing content and insights that helped shape this episode.


Podcast producer: Julien Manuguerra-Patten

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

]]> For decades, the “business case” for diversity, equity, and inclusion has shaped the conversation. The data is clear: diverse organizations often outperform their peers; but despite this, progress hasn’t always matched the promise.


So in this episode, Allyson Zimmermann and Sarah McGowan go beyond the numbers. Instead of asking whether DEI works - we know it does! - we’re asking why it works. What are the mechanisms that make DEI effective? What actually happens inside diverse teams that leads to better performance, sharper decisions, and stronger leadership? To explore this, we turn to academic research that doesn’t often make its way into boardrooms but offers powerful insights for leaders and HR professionals in consumer goods, retail, and beyond.


🔗 References mentioned in this episode:


Thanks to New York University (NYU), the Center for Workplace Excellence at the University of South Australia and Professor Jenny Hubler for providing content and insights that helped shape this episode.


Podcast producer: Julien Manuguerra-Patten

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

]]> All In! Allyship in Action All In! Allyship in Action Fri, 27 Jun 2025 10:00:00 GMT 24:28 685bf3177cd58072a56efc9d false https://shows.acast.com/leading-edge/episodes/all-in-allyship-in-action 685bf3177cd58072a56efc9d 65575fc75c5f6900126e6888 all-in-allyship-in-action full 2 5 What does it really mean to be an ally at work? Not in theory, but in the everyday decisions leaders make?


In this episode, hosts Allyson Zimmermann and Sarah McGowan take us inside All In, a hands-on learning experience designed for leaders in the retail and consumer goods industry. Built to go beyond awareness, All In helps leaders turn inclusion into action - in hiring, in meetings, in feedback, and in the small, daily moments that shape workplace culture.


We speak with Andrea Aranguren, one of the architects of the programme, and hear from Marc-Emmanuel Tisseron, Country Director Benelux at Lindt & Sprüngli , who took part in All In as a pilot participant.


You're interested in All In? Visit our website and join the movement.


Thanks to Andrea Aranguren and Marc-Emmanuel Tisseron. We also want to acknowledge the work of the entire LEAD Network team in the creation of this programme, especially Catherine Bullen, Dorrottya Gil-Zallay, Jodeine Wheatcroft, Tetyana Kretova, Ashley Jones, Karen Miller, and Sam Tunney. 

 

Our podcast producer is Julien Manuguerra-Patten.  

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

]]> What does it really mean to be an ally at work? Not in theory, but in the everyday decisions leaders make?


In this episode, hosts Allyson Zimmermann and Sarah McGowan take us inside All In, a hands-on learning experience designed for leaders in the retail and consumer goods industry. Built to go beyond awareness, All In helps leaders turn inclusion into action - in hiring, in meetings, in feedback, and in the small, daily moments that shape workplace culture.


We speak with Andrea Aranguren, one of the architects of the programme, and hear from Marc-Emmanuel Tisseron, Country Director Benelux at Lindt & Sprüngli , who took part in All In as a pilot participant.


You're interested in All In? Visit our website and join the movement.


Thanks to Andrea Aranguren and Marc-Emmanuel Tisseron. We also want to acknowledge the work of the entire LEAD Network team in the creation of this programme, especially Catherine Bullen, Dorrottya Gil-Zallay, Jodeine Wheatcroft, Tetyana Kretova, Ashley Jones, Karen Miller, and Sam Tunney. 

 

Our podcast producer is Julien Manuguerra-Patten.  

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

]]> Belonging and Psychological Safety - Part 2 Belonging and Psychological Safety - Part 2 Mon, 26 May 2025 09:48:49 GMT 35:19 68309a1ea795fd3aefc04d8b false https://shows.acast.com/leading-edge/episodes/belonging-and-psychological-safety-part-2 68309a1ea795fd3aefc04d8b 65575fc75c5f6900126e6888 belonging-and-psychological-safety-part-2 full 2 4 This episode is a continuation of our previous conversation on belonging and psychological safety with neuroscientist Dr. Marcia Goddard. In this second part, we hear from Nisha Rajamohan Coughlan, DEI Leader for EMEA at Cargill, and Dunke Afe, Non-Executive Director at BlackRock.


Get ready to take notes—they explore how psychological safety intersects with DEI, why it’s essential for high-performing teams, and what it looks like in practice. From personal stories to actionable advice, they offer clear insights for leaders, individuals, and teams looking to create safer, more inclusive workplaces.


Producer - Julien Manuguerra-Patten

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

]]> This episode is a continuation of our previous conversation on belonging and psychological safety with neuroscientist Dr. Marcia Goddard. In this second part, we hear from Nisha Rajamohan Coughlan, DEI Leader for EMEA at Cargill, and Dunke Afe, Non-Executive Director at BlackRock.


Get ready to take notes—they explore how psychological safety intersects with DEI, why it’s essential for high-performing teams, and what it looks like in practice. From personal stories to actionable advice, they offer clear insights for leaders, individuals, and teams looking to create safer, more inclusive workplaces.


Producer - Julien Manuguerra-Patten

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

]]> Belonging and Psychological Safety - Part 1 Belonging and Psychological Safety - Part 1 Mon, 05 May 2025 19:18:18 GMT 27:55 68190a501d28d62313c271f5 false https://shows.acast.com/leading-edge/episodes/belonging-and-psychological-safety 68190a501d28d62313c271f5 65575fc75c5f6900126e6888 belonging-and-psychological-safety full 2 3 What does it really take for people to do their best work? In this episode, hosts Allyson Zimmermann and Sarah McGowan dive into two often-overlooked but mission-critical ingredients in high-performing workplaces: belonging and psychological safety. You’ll hear why these aren’t just warm-and-fuzzy HR concepts but measurable drivers of performance, wellbeing, innovation, and retention. With insights from neuroscience from Dr Marcia Goddard, organisational research and lived experience, this conversation explores what it feels like to work in a safe environment and how to build one.


With contributions from:

  • Dr. Marcia Goddard – Neuroscientist, business consultant and keynote speaker at our Budapest conference
  • Dunke Afe – Non-Executive Director at BlackRock
  • Nisha Rajamohan Coughlan – DEI Leader EMEA at Cargill


Podcast producer - Julien Manuguerra-Patten


Resources & Mentions:


🎧 Subscribe to catch the full conversation with Dunke and Nisha in our next episode.

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

]]> What does it really take for people to do their best work? In this episode, hosts Allyson Zimmermann and Sarah McGowan dive into two often-overlooked but mission-critical ingredients in high-performing workplaces: belonging and psychological safety. You’ll hear why these aren’t just warm-and-fuzzy HR concepts but measurable drivers of performance, wellbeing, innovation, and retention. With insights from neuroscience from Dr Marcia Goddard, organisational research and lived experience, this conversation explores what it feels like to work in a safe environment and how to build one.


With contributions from:

  • Dr. Marcia Goddard – Neuroscientist, business consultant and keynote speaker at our Budapest conference
  • Dunke Afe – Non-Executive Director at BlackRock
  • Nisha Rajamohan Coughlan – DEI Leader EMEA at Cargill


Podcast producer - Julien Manuguerra-Patten


Resources & Mentions:


🎧 Subscribe to catch the full conversation with Dunke and Nisha in our next episode.

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

]]> <![CDATA[Q&A Special - Staying The Course on DEI ]]> Tue, 01 Apr 2025 20:11:19 GMT 23:20 67eb0c15d4b40d7b30ed5653 false https://shows.acast.com/leading-edge/episodes/qa-special-we-answer-your-questions-about-dei-pushback 67eb0c15d4b40d7b30ed5653 65575fc75c5f6900126e6888 qa-special-we-answer-your-questions-about-dei-pushback full 2 2 This is our first, special Q&A episode of The LEADing Edge podcast!

DEI once seemed like an unstoppable force in the corporate world. But today, the conversation is shifting. In this episode, we have an open and honest discussion about what’s at stake and how to stay the course. Hosts Allyson Zimmermann and Sarah McGowan answer questions from professionals navigating these challenges in real time, exploring why DEI matters now more than ever and how we can keep pushing forward despite resistance.


With special thanks for Clare Collett (Givaudan) and Julie Richer (Bel Group)

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

]]> This is our first, special Q&A episode of The LEADing Edge podcast!

DEI once seemed like an unstoppable force in the corporate world. But today, the conversation is shifting. In this episode, we have an open and honest discussion about what’s at stake and how to stay the course. Hosts Allyson Zimmermann and Sarah McGowan answer questions from professionals navigating these challenges in real time, exploring why DEI matters now more than ever and how we can keep pushing forward despite resistance.


With special thanks for Clare Collett (Givaudan) and Julie Richer (Bel Group)

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

]]> <![CDATA[International Women's Day 2025 - Doing, Not Trying]]> Tue, 25 Feb 2025 14:41:12 GMT 28:22 67b899e119249d0c1aa65e04 false https://shows.acast.com/leading-edge/episodes/international-womens-day-2025-doing-not-trying 67b899e119249d0c1aa65e04 65575fc75c5f6900126e6888 international-womens-day-2025-doing-not-trying full 2 1 Welcome to Season 2 of The LEADing Edge Podcast!

In this new episode, hosts Allyson Zimmermann and Sarah McGowan celebrate International Women's Day with one clear message—on the 8th of March and beyond, it's about doing, not trying. This motto has been a driving force of the network since its creation and remains more relevant than ever.

Allyson and Sarah advocate for actionable steps to promote gender equality, highlighting inspirational examples and the critical role of leadership in driving meaningful change. They emphasize that the path to equity requires consistent, intentional actions rather than performative gestures, urging listeners to commit to sustained progress every day.


Featuring insights from former Executive Director of LEAD Network, Sharon Jeske Borie, and Noel Keeley, CEO of Musgrave.

Podcast producer - Julien Manuguerra-Patten

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

]]> Welcome to Season 2 of The LEADing Edge Podcast!

In this new episode, hosts Allyson Zimmermann and Sarah McGowan celebrate International Women's Day with one clear message—on the 8th of March and beyond, it's about doing, not trying. This motto has been a driving force of the network since its creation and remains more relevant than ever.

Allyson and Sarah advocate for actionable steps to promote gender equality, highlighting inspirational examples and the critical role of leadership in driving meaningful change. They emphasize that the path to equity requires consistent, intentional actions rather than performative gestures, urging listeners to commit to sustained progress every day.


Featuring insights from former Executive Director of LEAD Network, Sharon Jeske Borie, and Noel Keeley, CEO of Musgrave.

Podcast producer - Julien Manuguerra-Patten

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

]]> Best-in-Class Award Winners - DEI That Inspires Best-in-Class Award Winners - DEI That Inspires Mon, 27 Jan 2025 16:04:24 GMT 33:03 6790f9d922302f87e1914706 false https://shows.acast.com/leading-edge/episodes/best-in-class-winners-dei-that-works 6790f9d922302f87e1914706 65575fc75c5f6900126e6888 best-in-class-winners-dei-that-works full 1 6 In this episode of 'The LEADing Edge' podcast hosted by Allyson Zimmermann and Sarah McGowan, the focus is on the winners of the 2024 LEAD Best in Class Awards. This award highlights outstanding achievements in fostering inclusive work environments within the retail and consumer packaged goods sectors. Featured winners include Lidl Bulgaria, recognized for their inclusive initiatives across educational programs and local outreach; and Kellanova, honored for their rapid advancements in gender diversity and comprehensive DEI strategies in Europe. This episode delves into the specifics of each company's efforts, the impactful results achieved, and insightful discussions on sustaining DEI initiatives. With the next conference set in Milan in October 2025, we encourage all companies to nominate their own initiatives for future recognition!


Featuring Milena Dragijska-Dencheva, CEO Lidl Bulgaria and Rebecca Roberts, HR Director for Europe, Kellanova.

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

]]> In this episode of 'The LEADing Edge' podcast hosted by Allyson Zimmermann and Sarah McGowan, the focus is on the winners of the 2024 LEAD Best in Class Awards. This award highlights outstanding achievements in fostering inclusive work environments within the retail and consumer packaged goods sectors. Featured winners include Lidl Bulgaria, recognized for their inclusive initiatives across educational programs and local outreach; and Kellanova, honored for their rapid advancements in gender diversity and comprehensive DEI strategies in Europe. This episode delves into the specifics of each company's efforts, the impactful results achieved, and insightful discussions on sustaining DEI initiatives. With the next conference set in Milan in October 2025, we encourage all companies to nominate their own initiatives for future recognition!


Featuring Milena Dragijska-Dencheva, CEO Lidl Bulgaria and Rebecca Roberts, HR Director for Europe, Kellanova.

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

]]> Bridging The Gap Where We Need It Most Bridging The Gap Where We Need It Most Fri, 20 Dec 2024 15:15:07 GMT 36:47 6758577f102e6d4448d2310d false https://shows.acast.com/leading-edge/episodes/gender-gap 6758577f102e6d4448d2310d 65575fc75c5f6900126e6888 gender-gap full 1 5 In this episode of The LEADing Edge podcast, hosts Allyson Zimmermann and Sarah McGowan delve into the challenges women face in traditionally male-dominated fields like supply chain, manufacturing, and operations. They tackle systemic issues such as gender bias, pay inequity, and persistent stereotypes, while highlighting actionable strategies to drive change. The discussion emphasizes leadership accountability, mentorship programs, pay audits, and flexible work arrangements as tools to promote female representation and success. Featuring thought-provoking insights from industry leaders Kath Martin, recently manufacturing manager at Kimberly-Clark and Ursula Heng of IBM.


References:

McKinsey Report on Women in the Workplace

Pay Gap Research - PayScale

Workplace Gender Pay Gap Research

LinkedIn Workforce Insights report

World Economic Forum Gender Gap Report

Report on women’s roles and representation in manufacturing


Thanks to Kath Martin, Ursula Heng, Regina Chitrella.

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

]]> In this episode of The LEADing Edge podcast, hosts Allyson Zimmermann and Sarah McGowan delve into the challenges women face in traditionally male-dominated fields like supply chain, manufacturing, and operations. They tackle systemic issues such as gender bias, pay inequity, and persistent stereotypes, while highlighting actionable strategies to drive change. The discussion emphasizes leadership accountability, mentorship programs, pay audits, and flexible work arrangements as tools to promote female representation and success. Featuring thought-provoking insights from industry leaders Kath Martin, recently manufacturing manager at Kimberly-Clark and Ursula Heng of IBM.


References:

McKinsey Report on Women in the Workplace

Pay Gap Research - PayScale

Workplace Gender Pay Gap Research

LinkedIn Workforce Insights report

World Economic Forum Gender Gap Report

Report on women’s roles and representation in manufacturing


Thanks to Kath Martin, Ursula Heng, Regina Chitrella.

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

]]> Navigating the Evolving DEI Landscape Navigating the Evolving DEI Landscape Tue, 15 Oct 2024 14:18:55 GMT 30:53 6707caae49f0b2961dd55caf false https://shows.acast.com/leading-edge/episodes/dei-pushback-navigating-a-shifting-landscape 6707caae49f0b2961dd55caf 65575fc75c5f6900126e6888 dei-pushback-navigating-a-shifting-landscape full 1 4 In this episode of the LEADing Edge podcast, hosts Allyson Zimmermann and Sarah McGowan delve into the complex and evolving landscape of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). They explore the politicization and legal challenges DEI initiatives face today, as the discussion centers around the resistance DEI programs encounter, including perceptions of reverse discrimination and legal pushbacks. This episode offers practical solutions for staying the course and also discusses the role of leadership in setting the tone, with insights from Tom Allmark, HR Director Southern Europe at CHEP.


References:

Harvard Business Review - Diversity and Inclusion: To Overcome Resistance to DEI, Understand What’s Driving It

Survey from Littler: DEI - C-Suite survey report, Jan 2024

Survey Pew Research Centre: DEI in the Workplace

Supreme Court of the US Decision on Affirmative Action, 2023


Some Lily Zheng LinkedIn posts on DEI today

Post 1 - DEI's backlash in truth

Post 2 - DEI Misinformation


Thanks to Tom Allmark and Sam Tunney,

Producer - Julien Manuguerra-Patten

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

]]> In this episode of the LEADing Edge podcast, hosts Allyson Zimmermann and Sarah McGowan delve into the complex and evolving landscape of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). They explore the politicization and legal challenges DEI initiatives face today, as the discussion centers around the resistance DEI programs encounter, including perceptions of reverse discrimination and legal pushbacks. This episode offers practical solutions for staying the course and also discusses the role of leadership in setting the tone, with insights from Tom Allmark, HR Director Southern Europe at CHEP.


References:

Harvard Business Review - Diversity and Inclusion: To Overcome Resistance to DEI, Understand What’s Driving It

Survey from Littler: DEI - C-Suite survey report, Jan 2024

Survey Pew Research Centre: DEI in the Workplace

Supreme Court of the US Decision on Affirmative Action, 2023


Some Lily Zheng LinkedIn posts on DEI today

Post 1 - DEI's backlash in truth

Post 2 - DEI Misinformation


Thanks to Tom Allmark and Sam Tunney,

Producer - Julien Manuguerra-Patten

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

]]> Is AI an Ally? Is AI an Ally? Fri, 30 Aug 2024 14:03:11 GMT 30:35 66c7452f0f3233b2d38a2d69 false https://shows.acast.com/leading-edge/episodes/is-ai-an-ally 66c7452f0f3233b2d38a2d69 65575fc75c5f6900126e6888 is-ai-an-ally For an Ethical Use of AI full 1 3 In this episode of the LEADing Edge podcast, hosts Allyson Zimmermann and Sarah McGowan explore whether AI can truly be a trusted ally in the CPG and Retail sectors. Artificial intelligence has revolutionized the industry, enhancing everything from customer experience to supply chain management. However, its rapid adoption also raises concerns about job displacement and inherent biases.


The discussion emphasizes the importance of designing AI systems that are transparent, ethical, and inclusive to create better opportunities for everyone in the workplace, especially women and marginalized groups.


If you enjoyed today's episode, don't forget to subscribe to this podcast and leave us as many stars as you like. You can follow us on LinkedIn or become a LEAD Network Member for free! Visit theleadnetwork.net to access the Member Platform.


Episode Guests:

AI strategy expert and LEAD Network NextGen Chapter Board member Arta Statovci

Founder and CEO of Appoint Group Teuta Sahatqija

AI Management Consultant and AI governance officer @ Deeper Insights James Winters


Resources:

Top AI Aggregators with over 15k+ AI tools:

  1. Toolify: https://www.toolify.ai
  2. Futurepedia: https://www.futurepedia.io
  3. There’s an AI for That: https://theresanaiforthat.com
  4. Gartner: https://www.gartner.com/reviews/market/generative-ai-apps

Top online platforms for aggregating AI courses:

  1. Coursera: https://www.coursera.org/search?query=artificial%20intelligence
  2. edX: https://www.edx.org/learn/artificial-intelligence
  3. Udacity: https://www.udacity.com/school/artificial-intelligence


Thanks to Teuta Sahatqija, Arta Statovci, James Winters, and Sam Tunney. 

Podcast producer: Julien Manuguerra-Patten.


References:

AI could replace equivalent of 300 million jobs - report - BBC

The Gendered Impacts Of AI On Women’s Careers - Forbes

Why there will be plenty of jobs in the future — even with artificial intelligence - World Economic Forum


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

]]> In this episode of the LEADing Edge podcast, hosts Allyson Zimmermann and Sarah McGowan explore whether AI can truly be a trusted ally in the CPG and Retail sectors. Artificial intelligence has revolutionized the industry, enhancing everything from customer experience to supply chain management. However, its rapid adoption also raises concerns about job displacement and inherent biases.


The discussion emphasizes the importance of designing AI systems that are transparent, ethical, and inclusive to create better opportunities for everyone in the workplace, especially women and marginalized groups.


If you enjoyed today's episode, don't forget to subscribe to this podcast and leave us as many stars as you like. You can follow us on LinkedIn or become a LEAD Network Member for free! Visit theleadnetwork.net to access the Member Platform.


Episode Guests:

AI strategy expert and LEAD Network NextGen Chapter Board member Arta Statovci

Founder and CEO of Appoint Group Teuta Sahatqija

AI Management Consultant and AI governance officer @ Deeper Insights James Winters


Resources:

Top AI Aggregators with over 15k+ AI tools:

  1. Toolify: https://www.toolify.ai
  2. Futurepedia: https://www.futurepedia.io
  3. There’s an AI for That: https://theresanaiforthat.com
  4. Gartner: https://www.gartner.com/reviews/market/generative-ai-apps

Top online platforms for aggregating AI courses:

  1. Coursera: https://www.coursera.org/search?query=artificial%20intelligence
  2. edX: https://www.edx.org/learn/artificial-intelligence
  3. Udacity: https://www.udacity.com/school/artificial-intelligence


Thanks to Teuta Sahatqija, Arta Statovci, James Winters, and Sam Tunney. 

Podcast producer: Julien Manuguerra-Patten.


References:

AI could replace equivalent of 300 million jobs - report - BBC

The Gendered Impacts Of AI On Women’s Careers - Forbes

Why there will be plenty of jobs in the future — even with artificial intelligence - World Economic Forum


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

]]> Powered by Purpose Powered by Purpose Wed, 03 Jul 2024 12:30:57 GMT 27:03 66603531aa134f00126887d7 false https://shows.acast.com/leading-edge/episodes/powered-by-purpose 66603531aa134f00126887d7 65575fc75c5f6900126e6888 powered-by-purpose How Purpose Can Change Our Lives full 1 2 In this episode of The LEADing Edge podcast, hosts Allyson Zimmermann and Sarah McGowan explore the importance of purpose. How can finding our purpose lead to personal fulfillment and collective progress?

Societal shifts and the COVID-19 pandemic have amplified the value of meaningful work, emphasizing that purpose-driven work connects emotionally and motivates. Using the journey of Sam Latif, P&G's first company accessibility leader, to illustrate the transformative power of purpose, this episode features insights from leadership coach Lisa Murdoch and motivational theorist Daniel Pink.

The discussions also provide strategies for individuals and leaders to foster purpose within their teams, ultimately enhancing performance and employee retention.

Tune in to learn how purpose can drive both personal and organizational success!


If you enjoyed today's episode, don't forget to subscribe to this podcast and leave us as many stars as you like. You can follow us on LinkedIn or become a LEAD Network Member for free! Visit theleadnetwork.net to access the Member Platform.


Episode Guests:

Sam Latif, Company Accessibility Leader, P&G. 

Lisa Murdoch, Women's Leadership Coach - CEO Unleash my Future


Episode Breakdown:

00:00 Introduction

00:33 The Awakening

01:35 Exploring Personal Purpose

03:09 Finding our Why 

04:34 Daniel Pink on Motivation

07:04 Sam Latif's Inspiring Journey

09:03 Find Your Purpose

11:52 Leading with Purpose

14:33 Sam Latif's Interview

18:56 Sam Latif - Innovations Inspired by Disabilities

19:36 Sam Latif - Creating Inclusive Products 

20:33 Sam Latif - The Disability Challenge

25:22 Conclusion: Running Our Own Race

26:40 Credits


Thanks to Lisa Murdoch, Sam Latif, Amy Williams, and Sam Tunney. We're grateful to the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation for letting us use an extract of their interview with Daniel Pink. Our podcast producer is Julien Manuguerra-Patten.

 

References + Additional Information: 

 

Reducing employee turnover through purpose. (n.d.) Benevity

Why purpose is key to attracting and retaining women employees. (2023).  The Globe and Mail

Kurshan, B. (2022).  Why are women rising to the top in purpose-driven sectors? Forbes.

Bishop, R. (2023).  Does purpose play a role in mental health? Mayo Clinic Health System

Castrillon, C. (2024).  How to find a greater sense of purpose at work.  Forbes

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

]]> In this episode of The LEADing Edge podcast, hosts Allyson Zimmermann and Sarah McGowan explore the importance of purpose. How can finding our purpose lead to personal fulfillment and collective progress?

Societal shifts and the COVID-19 pandemic have amplified the value of meaningful work, emphasizing that purpose-driven work connects emotionally and motivates. Using the journey of Sam Latif, P&G's first company accessibility leader, to illustrate the transformative power of purpose, this episode features insights from leadership coach Lisa Murdoch and motivational theorist Daniel Pink.

The discussions also provide strategies for individuals and leaders to foster purpose within their teams, ultimately enhancing performance and employee retention.

Tune in to learn how purpose can drive both personal and organizational success!


If you enjoyed today's episode, don't forget to subscribe to this podcast and leave us as many stars as you like. You can follow us on LinkedIn or become a LEAD Network Member for free! Visit theleadnetwork.net to access the Member Platform.


Episode Guests:

Sam Latif, Company Accessibility Leader, P&G. 

Lisa Murdoch, Women's Leadership Coach - CEO Unleash my Future


Episode Breakdown:

00:00 Introduction

00:33 The Awakening

01:35 Exploring Personal Purpose

03:09 Finding our Why 

04:34 Daniel Pink on Motivation

07:04 Sam Latif's Inspiring Journey

09:03 Find Your Purpose

11:52 Leading with Purpose

14:33 Sam Latif's Interview

18:56 Sam Latif - Innovations Inspired by Disabilities

19:36 Sam Latif - Creating Inclusive Products 

20:33 Sam Latif - The Disability Challenge

25:22 Conclusion: Running Our Own Race

26:40 Credits


Thanks to Lisa Murdoch, Sam Latif, Amy Williams, and Sam Tunney. We're grateful to the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation for letting us use an extract of their interview with Daniel Pink. Our podcast producer is Julien Manuguerra-Patten.

 

References + Additional Information: 

 

Reducing employee turnover through purpose. (n.d.) Benevity

Why purpose is key to attracting and retaining women employees. (2023).  The Globe and Mail

Kurshan, B. (2022).  Why are women rising to the top in purpose-driven sectors? Forbes.

Bishop, R. (2023).  Does purpose play a role in mental health? Mayo Clinic Health System

Castrillon, C. (2024).  How to find a greater sense of purpose at work.  Forbes

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

]]> Future-Fit for NextGens Future-Fit for NextGens Fri, 07 Jun 2024 13:50:30 GMT 32:48 665998ea990fa200122941db false https://shows.acast.com/leading-edge/episodes/future-fit-with-nextgens 665998ea990fa200122941db 65575fc75c5f6900126e6888 future-fit-with-nextgens Bridging Generational Gaps in the Industry full 1 1 In the inaugural episode of The LEADing Edge podcast, hosts Allyson Zimmermann and Sarah McGowan delve into the critical need for attracting, retaining, and advancing next-gen talents in the CPG and retail sectors. With Gen Z and Millennials set to dominate the workforce by 2030, we need to make workplaces future-fit - now. This episode highlights key findings from a LEAD Network report surveying over 900 next-gen talents, revealing their desires for work-life balance, career growth, and visibility.


Featuring insights from industry leaders like Asahi CEO Paolo Lanzarotti, Diageo Managing Director Europe Olena Neznal, and Unilever Account Manager and Co-Chair of the NextGen Chapter Radia Ahsan, the episode explores practical solutions and the transformative Leadership 2.0 model aimed at fostering inclusivity and innovation. Tune in to discover how we can bridge generational gaps and create a more inclusive and innovative workplace!


If you enjoyed today's episode, don't forget to subscribe to this podcast and leave us as many stars as you like. You can follow us on LinkedIn or become a LEAD Network Member for free! Visit theleadnetwork.net to access the Member Platform.


Episode Guests:

Radia Ahsan, Unilever Account Manager and Co-Chair of the NextGen Chapter

Paolo Lanzarotti, CEO Asahi Europe and International

Olena Neznal, Diageo Managing Director Europe


Episode Breakdown:

  • 00:00 Introduction: The Importance of Next Gen Talent
  • 00:36 The Workforce of the Future
  • 01:45 Challenges and Shocking Statistics
  • 03:46 Addressing the Talent Shortage
  • 04:15 Research and Insights:LEAD Network report on NextGens
  • 06:20 Myths and Realities about NextGens
  • 07:18 What NextGens Want
  • 11:02 Leadership 2.0
  • 14:48 A CEO's realization
  • 20:22 Intersectionality: Next Gen and Gender Equity
  • 21:23 Next Gen Voices: An Interview with Radia Ahsan
  • 23:41 Radia Ahsan - Bridging Generational Gaps
  • 30:19 Conclusion: A Call for Inclusive Leadership


Thanks to Radia Ahsan, Paolo Lanzarotti, Olena Neznal, Sam Tunney and the entire NextGen Chapter at The LEAD Network. Our podcast producer is Julien Manuguerra-Patten.

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

]]> In the inaugural episode of The LEADing Edge podcast, hosts Allyson Zimmermann and Sarah McGowan delve into the critical need for attracting, retaining, and advancing next-gen talents in the CPG and retail sectors. With Gen Z and Millennials set to dominate the workforce by 2030, we need to make workplaces future-fit - now. This episode highlights key findings from a LEAD Network report surveying over 900 next-gen talents, revealing their desires for work-life balance, career growth, and visibility.


Featuring insights from industry leaders like Asahi CEO Paolo Lanzarotti, Diageo Managing Director Europe Olena Neznal, and Unilever Account Manager and Co-Chair of the NextGen Chapter Radia Ahsan, the episode explores practical solutions and the transformative Leadership 2.0 model aimed at fostering inclusivity and innovation. Tune in to discover how we can bridge generational gaps and create a more inclusive and innovative workplace!


If you enjoyed today's episode, don't forget to subscribe to this podcast and leave us as many stars as you like. You can follow us on LinkedIn or become a LEAD Network Member for free! Visit theleadnetwork.net to access the Member Platform.


Episode Guests:

Radia Ahsan, Unilever Account Manager and Co-Chair of the NextGen Chapter

Paolo Lanzarotti, CEO Asahi Europe and International

Olena Neznal, Diageo Managing Director Europe


Episode Breakdown:

  • 00:00 Introduction: The Importance of Next Gen Talent
  • 00:36 The Workforce of the Future
  • 01:45 Challenges and Shocking Statistics
  • 03:46 Addressing the Talent Shortage
  • 04:15 Research and Insights:LEAD Network report on NextGens
  • 06:20 Myths and Realities about NextGens
  • 07:18 What NextGens Want
  • 11:02 Leadership 2.0
  • 14:48 A CEO's realization
  • 20:22 Intersectionality: Next Gen and Gender Equity
  • 21:23 Next Gen Voices: An Interview with Radia Ahsan
  • 23:41 Radia Ahsan - Bridging Generational Gaps
  • 30:19 Conclusion: A Call for Inclusive Leadership


Thanks to Radia Ahsan, Paolo Lanzarotti, Olena Neznal, Sam Tunney and the entire NextGen Chapter at The LEAD Network. Our podcast producer is Julien Manuguerra-Patten.

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

]]>