Are you Chess Club or Drama Club? Do you focus on the detail or prefer to imagine the bigger picture?

In this Transforming Business episode, Martin Parker speaks with Sally Bridgeland, author of Chess Club, Drama Club, about why we need a mixture of both clubs within teams, and within ourselves.

They discuss how the ‘Club Mix’ can enhance team dynamics by balancing creativity, structure and different ways of thinking, including the value of neurodiversity and inclusive teams. Through real-life stories, business insights and practical exercises, Sally explores how the ‘DJ’ can create the perfect mix to drive business success.

Sally is an actuary with extensive experience in innovation, risk management and responsible investment across investment management and pensions.

Find out more about the book at: https://bristoluniversitypress.co.uk/professional-business/chess-club-drama-club

The transcript is available here: https://www.transformingsociety.co.uk/2026/09/10/podcast-chess-club-drama-club-creating-the-perfect-club-mix-for-inclusive-teams/

Timestamps:

01:04 – What is the distinction between chess club and drama club?

05:06 – Why is having a mix of both clubs important?

06:40 – What is the ‘club mix’?

14:06 – What does the dance between chess club and drama club actually look like?

20:26 – How does the ‘club mix’ apply to politics?

23:45 – Is the chess club, drama club divide a gendered one?

27:24 – What is the role of the DJ in this space?

30:55 – When were you at your most and least motivated?

Intro music:

Cold by yoitrax | @yoitrax

Music promoted by www.free-stock-music.com

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