Soft Skills Set You Apart Ft. Janis Thomas

In this episode, we chat with Lauren Duncan, Head of eCommerce at Phillip Kingsley, about her incredible journey from sales consultant to leading digital strategy for a global beauty brand. Lauren shares how she built her career in the fast-paced world of eCommerce and digital marketing, navigating challenges from workplace bullying to sexism and sexual harassment along the way.She opens up about the importance of advocating for yourself, asking the "dumb" questions, and taking your time in your career — because it’s not a race. Lauren also discusses the power of mentorship and mental health and how she’s learned to balance ambition with self-care.A must-listen for anyone navigating their own career path — especially in beauty, fashion, or tech. Tune in for actionable advice on overcoming obstacles, speaking up, and embracing growth.

In this episode, we dive into the inspiring journey of Ivy Storvik, Brand and Content Director at Childrensalon. From navigating self-doubt at Elle to driving innovation at Matches, Ivy shares how she built a career rooted in storytelling, authenticity and bold creative moves. Discover her insights on balancing work and life, overcoming creative blocks, and redefining leadership with vulnerability and purpose. Tune in for a conversation full of wisdom, challenges and actionable advice for anyone carving their own path. Don’t miss it!

Join Janis Thomas, Managing Director of Look Fabulous Forever, the beauty brand redefining what it means to age with confidence. In this episode, Janis shares her fearless career journey, from managing digital streaming before Netflix was a thing to planning Hugh Hefner’s birthday party at Playboy, and now leading a groundbreaking brand for older women.Discover how she turned fear into fuel, mastered the art of reinvention, and learned the secret to rising through the ranks: bringing fresh perspectives and listening to what people really want. This conversation is packed with advice on embracing a non-linear career, pushing past comfort zones, and creating impact in everything you do.If you're figuring out your path, looking to make a bold move, or just love hearing how people turn ambition into action, this episode is for you.

Meet Meriel Neighbour: The Creative Powerhouse Redefining SuccessThis week, we chat with Meriel Neighbour, Head of Global Digital Product, Delivery and Transformation at Clarks.A leader who’s worked with iconic brands like Ted Baker and Selfridges. From scrubbing toilets as a hotel manager to designing nationwide bar concepts, Meriel’s journey is all about creativity, resilience and putting the customer first. She shares how taking risks, learning from setbacks and embracing change can unlock your potential. Whether you’re building a career or chasing your passion.If you’re ready to be inspired to carve your own path, this episode is a must-listen!

Join us as we chat with Sarah, one of the original team members behind the jewellery brand, Astrid & Miyu. Starting 12 years ago with just her and founder Connie Nam, Sarah shares how she went from fashion internships to running the show at a fast-growing brand.In this episode, Sarah dives into the early hustle - working from a flat, doing everything from customer service to social media without formal training. She opens up about navigating imposter syndrome, balancing motherhood with leadership, and how trusting her instincts helped shape her career.Now, with another maternity leave on the horizon, Sarah reflects on what it's like to build a business, take risks, and still find time for family. Whether you're chasing startup dreams or juggling work and life, Sarah's story will inspire you to jump in, adapt and keep pushing forward.Don't miss this episode packed with energy, insight, and real talk about thriving in the world of startups.

In this episode, Irene To, Head of Product at Selfridges, reflects on her career journey, starting in strategy consulting and moving into leadership roles in retail. She talks about the lessons learned along the way—from solving customer problems to navigating operational challenges when stepping into her role at Selfridges.Irene shares her approach to career progression, emphasising the importance of thinking two steps ahead and taking ownership of your development. She also discusses the value of networking, gathering 360-degree feedback, and embracing discomfort as a key part of growth and success. 

In this episode, we sit down with Lindsay, Marketing Director at The Diamond Store, as she shares her incredible journey in marketing and advertising. From launching her career at an agency to working with global brands like Sony Mobile, Bondi Sands, and ChiChi London, Lindsay has seen it all.She dives into her passion for storytelling in advertising, how consumer psychology drives successful campaigns, and the key differences between tech and lifestyle brands. Lindsay also opens up about building diverse teams, the importance of culture fit, and how her wide-ranging experience has shaped her holistic approach to marketing strategies.We also explore imposter syndrome, something Lindsay has encountered along the way. She offers practical advice on how to manage self-doubt, build confidence, and thrive in any role—reminding us that passion, not perfection, is what really matters.

Join us on WeInspire as we delve into the extraordinary journey of Emma, Head of Global HR at The Inkey List. From her beginnings in Lancashire to leading global HR, Emma's story is one of resilience and adaptability. Initially set on joining the police, a gap year redirected her into HR.Emma spent two decades at BAE Systems, navigating various sectors and locations, which kept her career dynamic. In this episode, she shares insights on balancing a demanding career with family life, setting boundaries, and empowering her team with trust and autonomy.Discover Emma’s leadership philosophy, the evolving workplace post-Covid, and the power of stepping out of your comfort zone. Her mantra, "By changing nothing, nothing changes," drives her to inspire and challenge the status quo continually.Tune in for an engaging conversation about career growth and personal development.✨ Follow us now and be part of the WeInspire community!

Join us as we dive into the remarkable career of Nicola, the Director of Omnichannel at House of Hackney. From her roots in LA to her current role in the UK, Nicola’s journey spans iconic brands like Net-a-Porter, Lightbox Jewelry, and Charlotte Tilbury. Nicola shares her inspiring story of taking risks, learning from mistakes, and balancing a successful career with motherhood. Discover her insights on embracing failure, asking for help, and the ongoing challenge of juggling work and family life. Tune in for a candid conversation about resilience, personal growth, and the power of following your passions.

Join Annette Rowson as she shares her journey from an independent university student to a Digital Optimisation Lead at Primark. Annette discovered her commercial mind and deepened her expertise in data to enhance market strategies. Despite facing stereotypes and imposter syndrome, Annette has become a staunch advocate for women in data, stressing the importance of skill-based hiring and the need for more diversity in the industry. Tune in to hear her insights on overcoming challenges, advocating for inclusion, and aligning with business goals in the data field.