In this episode, James Russell and Alex are joined by Laura Thom, an experienced leader in Change and Transformation, to discuss how esure navigated a period of unprecedented challenge and change. Together, they reflect on the lessons learned from leading a major transformation programme during a time marked by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Ukraine war, and an energy crisis.

Key Topics

• Transformation Under Pressure: Laura shares her experiences leading esure through a comprehensive transformation, highlighting the unique pressures of managing change in a mid-sized organisation while facing significant external disruptions.
• Shifting Culture and Leadership: The conversation explores how esure’s leadership team evolved, moving from a traditional, hierarchical structure to a flatter, more open environment where authentic voices and open debate were encouraged.
• The Art of Prioritisation: The team discusses the critical importance of focusing on what truly matters, making tough decisions about priorities, and ensuring clarity for everyone involved, especially when resources and time are limited.
• Building Trust and Authenticity: Laura and James reflect on how trust among leaders grew through adversity, and why being able to bring your authentic self to work is vital for team success and wellbeing.
• Lessons for Leaders: Laura offers candid advice on what she would do differently, including the need to avoid overcommitting and to be more deliberate about scaling teams. She also shares her perspective on the value of learning, feedback, and finding the right environment to thrive.

Memorable Quotes

• “You’re flying a plane through the air and you’re trying to change the engine, repaint the branding, and refit the cabin—all at once.”
• “If the team is winning, then I feel like I am winning. That’s how I’m wired.”
• “You have to be comfortable being you, because if you’re spending all your energy adapting to fit in, that’s energy you’re not using to reach your potential.”

Connect with the Guests

• Laura Thom: Find Laura on LinkedIn for more insights on transformation and leadership.
• James Russell & Alex: For more content and to get involved, visit wearepowerful.org.

In this inspiring episode of the We Are Powerful Podcast, hosts James Russell and Alex Sellers are joined by Steve Biggs, Head of People Operations at the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB). Steve shares his deeply personal journey through anxiety, imposter syndrome, and mental health challenges, and how these experiences shaped his approach to authentic leadership and supporting others through change.

Key topics include:

• Overcoming imposter syndrome and self-doubt
• The importance of mental health awareness in the workplace
• Seeking help and the power of vulnerability
• Mindfulness, resilience, and building new habits
• Creating psychologically safe workplaces
• Authentic leadership and emotional intelligence
• Letting go of perfectionism and embracing self-acceptance
• The role of employers in supporting employee wellbeing

Listen now for practical insights and heartfelt advice on leading yourself and others through change. Connect with Steve Biggs on LinkedIn for further conversation and support.

Links:

• Empowering Teams and Cultures Together | We.Are.Powerful
• Mental Health workshops from LovingLife
• Jamie Smart and managing 'contaminated thoughts'
• About Brené | Brené Brown

Welcome to the kickoff episode of the We.Are.Powerful Podcast! Hosts James Russell (organisational change consultant and coach at Lead To Change) and Alex Sellers (founder of Blue Heron Training) introduce themselves and the mission behind the show: celebrating people and teams who make changes in themselves to transform results for others in their organisations and communities.

In this candid conversation, James and Alex share their personal journeys—covering topics such as overcoming adversity, addiction recovery, risk-taking, and the pursuit of authenticity. They discuss the importance of being present, embracing vulnerability, and finding meaning and joy in everyday life. The episode sets the stage for future interviews with inspiring guests who have made significant changes in their lives and work.

Key topics include:

• Authentic leadership and personal growth
• Overcoming addiction and mental health challenges
• The power of vulnerability and storytelling
• Embracing discomfort and taking risks
• Finding meaning, purpose, and joy
• Building positive workplace cultures
• The journey of self-acceptance and being “okay”
• The impact of connection and community

Useful links:

• Gabor Mate - Young Again episode
• Viktor Frankl - Man's Search for Meaning
• If you are struggling and need to talk to someone - The Samaritans
• Empowering Teams and Cultures Together | We.Are.Powerful