Finding Your EPIC – Details, episodes & analysis

In this week’s podcast, Jacqueline Frost interviews Julia Kelley, Vice President, Legal and Compliance - AB Volvo Penta. Julia explains her role in the company, detailing her work with Volvo's industrial business unit. She shares her pivotal career moment, which occurred while clerking for Judge Charles Weston Houck, known for his landmark ruling in Faulkner vs. The Citadel. Julia describes Judge Houck's principled approach to justice, his sacrifices, and his influence on her commitment to fairness and excellence.

Jacqueline and Julia discuss the role of female and male role models in shaping careers and the value of persistence and deferred gratification. Reflecting on the ongoing journey toward justice and principled leadership and the importance of tone and authenticity.

In the latest EPIC podcast Jacqueline's guest is Lucy Newcombe. Lucy discusses her career journey and key insights into problem-solving and communication. Lucy, who has a background in journalism, PR, marketing, and corporate communications, currently holds the role of Chief People and ESD Officer at Computershare.
Throughout the conversation, Lucy highlights the gradual realization of her own problem-solving skills, particularly during a pivotal moment early in her career in Australia. Tasked with a complex challenge by the Chief Legal Officer, she learned to deconstruct problems into manageable parts, a skill she traces back to overcoming imposter syndrome and a curious nature developed from childhood.

Lucy and Jacqueline discuss the importance of asking questions, a principle Lucy adheres to regardless of the setting, including board meetings and executive discussions. This approach not only clarifies understanding but also empowers others to engage more actively. They reference a significant moment when the global CEO openly admitted to not understanding a CFO’s presentation, which validated Lucy’s own uncertainties and underscored the importance of clear communication.

A recurring theme in the discussion is the empowerment derived from simplicity and the courage to inquire. Lucy emphasizes how these principles have enabled her to navigate her career transition from PR to leading HR functions, including handling complex payroll systems. By breaking down information into simpler components, she feels confident tackling unfamiliar challenges and encourages others to adopt a similar approach.

Lucy’s closing thought, inspired by a quote from Gandalf in J.R.R. Tolkien’s writings, encapsulates her philosophy: we must decide how to use our time wisely, choosing either to complicate or simplify our approach to challenges to maximize our impact and effectiveness. This perspective not only guides her professional actions but also serves as a personal mantra, reminding her to pursue clarity and purpose daily.
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In this episode of the  "Finding Your Epic" podcast  Jacqueline Frost talks with Heather Key, Chief Legal Counsel at Serco and Chair of the Army Families Federation, discusses her 12-year journey of career development and community building. Heather highlights her transition from head of legal at her previous employer to achieving professional and personal goals, including non-executive roles and volunteer work. She emphasizes the importance of connecting diverse individuals to advance collective well-being across professional, church, and family spheres.

Heather also shares her experiences with Diversity and Inclusion (D&I) initiatives, from establishing women's groups to contributing to inclusion hubs at Serco, underlining the significance of authenticity and collaboration. The conversation also covers the evolution of networking in a post-COVID-19 era, advocating for a curiosity-led approach to foster meaningful relationships and mutual growth. The concept of the "O-shaped lawyer" is introduced, promoting a holistic and empathetic approach to legal practice.
Heather Key leaves the audience with a quote by Helen Keller, "Alone, we can do so little; together, we can do so much," encapsulating the essence of the conversation about the power of community and collective action in achieving greater impact.

In a conversation between Jacqueline Frost and Melinda Burn, Melinda, the Vice President of Strategic Marketing at Solecta Inc, discusses her multifaceted role and career trajectory. Melinda's journey from a chemistry background to marketing leadership is marked by intentional steps and proactive decision-making. She emphasizes the importance of curiosity, seeking feedback, and being open to new opportunities.

Mentoring, both seeking and providing, is highlighted as mutually beneficial, offering insights and learning experiences. Melinda advocates for a strategic approach to career development, emphasizing self-awareness and a willingness to explore diverse roles within an organization.

Jacqueline underscores the significance of proactive engagement and bravery in shaping one's career path. The discussion concludes with Melinda sharing a quote: "Opportunities don't happen. You create them," emphasizing the proactive nature of career growth.

Overall, the conversation offers insights into navigating career paths, leveraging mentorship, and fostering a mindset of continuous learning and growth.

In this conversation between Jacqueline Frost and Emma Codd, Emma shares her journey from being a forensic practitioner to her current role as the Global Chief Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Officer for Deloitte. She recounts her career changes and the pivotal moments that led her to her current passion for diversity and inclusion.

Emma discusses her transition from a career in forensic consulting to her current role, highlighting the influence of key sponsors and mentors who recognized her potential and provided opportunities for growth. She emphasizes the importance of lived experiences, purpose, and passion in driving her commitment to promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

Jacqueline and Emma discuss the challenges faced by women in male-dominated industries, including workplace harassment and discrimination. They reflect on the importance of addressing these issues and creating safe and inclusive environments for all employees.

The conversation also touches on broader societal challenges, such as gender inequality and reproductive rights, with Emma expressing her concern and frustration at the slow pace of progress. However, she remains optimistic about the positive changes happening globally and emphasizes the role of individuals and organizations in driving meaningful change.

In conclusion, Emma encourages individuals to be brave and bold in advocating for equality and inclusion, both in the workplace and society. She emphasizes the importance of calling out injustice and working together to create a more equitable future for all.

In this episode, host Jacqueline Frost talks to Sam Cooper-Gray, Global Head of Market Strategy and Engagement, HSBC Business Banking 

In a candid discussion, Sam highlights the significance of the importance of adding value.

As a mentor and confidante, she exemplifies the transformative power of meaningful relationships. From research to speaking up in meetings, Sam knows how to add value in professional settings. She believes in reciprocity, deepening relationships through assistance and insight.

Join her journey of empowerment and inspiration, where finding your epic means connecting authentically and adding value at every turn.

Contact Sam on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/samcoopergray/

Step into the world of empowerment with our newest podcast episode: “EPIC IMPACT”! Join us as we introduce Felicity March, Global Vice President of Growth, Security and Resilience, Accenture 

In a candid discussion, Felicity highlights the significance of mental health awareness in the workplace and the power of embracing authenticity on tough days. Learn from her firsthand experience and gain insights into taking risks, staying true to your ‘why,’ and speaking up in your career journey.

From navigating career hurdles to embracing self-improvement, Felicity shares wisdom that transcends boundaries. Don’t miss out on this transformative journey towards epic impact!

Contact Felicity on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/felicitymarch

Welcome to the Finding Your EPIC podcast.


In this episode, host Jacqueline Frost talks to Emma Dark, Director of Customer Care UK & IRE for The Estée Lauder Companies.

This conversation explores the power of EPIC positivity in your career. Learn from Emma about the importance of affirmations and encouragement, how to stay positive and heathy in a demanding role, and how you can tap into motivation.

Stay tuned for future episodes of the Finding Your EPIC podcast.

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To get in touch with Emma, find her here:

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/emma-dark-ccxp-15a4918/


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To get in touch with us, please visit:

Elevate Talent: https://elevatetalent.co.uk/

Jacqueline Frost: https://www.linkedin.com/in/frostjacqueline/

Welcome to the Finding Your EPIC podcast.

In this episode, host Jacqueline Frost talks to Jane Karczewski, Head of Investors Business Development at  Société Générale, a European leader in financial services. 

They discuss various topics, including: staying ahead of the curve; the importance of being adaptable; and the difference between genders when it comes to agility.

Stay tuned for future episodes of the Finding Your EPIC podcast.

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To get in touch with Jane, find her here:

LinkedIn:  https://www.linkedin.com/in/jane-karczewski-03506829/

 Société Générale :  https://www.societegenerale.com/en 

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To get in touch with us, please visit:

Elevate Talent: https://elevatetalent.co.uk/

Jacqueline Frost: https://www.linkedin.com/in/frostjacqueline/