ReCon, the podcast made to support women in their 30s to mid 40s in the Construction industry who are navigating significant challenges to maintain momentum on their career path.
ReCon short for Reinventive Contribution is the advanced stage of a woman’s career where women aged 46 & beyond often seek new opportunities for growth and may focus on contributing to their field,
Brene Brown calls it …. The gift of Mid-life which I love!
As my gift I want use this pod to share and leverage accumulated expertise by Interviewing successful women within the construction industry in the ReCon stage of their career. They have been there & have Pragmatically Endured through their 30 & 40s & got to the other side.
My guests share their lived experiences, challenges, surprises and some golden nuggets to support those women currently in the Pragmatic Endurance phase of their career (30 – mid 40s). They have been there & got to the other side. Although I hope these conversations resonate with anyone at any age because there is so much valuable advice and so many really good pieces of information and that I wish that I'd been given.
For more information on the 3 phases of woman's career please head to the resources section of my website www.breathecoaching.co.uk
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Series 2 'The Summer Series' Episode 1 - Michelle French
Season 2 · Episode 1
Tuesday, August 4, 2026 • Duration 41:48
In this episode, Bev Williams interviews Michelle French, co-founder of CAMA Group, discussing her journey in business, the importance of sustainability, and her personal experiences with leadership and resilience. Michelle shares insights on reinventing her career, the challenges she faced, and the lessons learned from failures. The conversation highlights the significance of intuition in decision-making, the dynamics of working with family, and the value of building relationships in business. In this engaging conversation, Michelle shares her insights on navigating career transition and the lessons learned from business failures. She discusses proactive strategies for business resilience, unexpected career paths, and the significance of mentoring women in the workplace. Michelle also reflects on her hopes for sustainability in the film and construction industries, the role of AI, and the importance of trusting one's instincts in challenging situations. The discussion concludes with an inspirational thought about courage and resilience.
Takeaways:
· Confidence in decision-making grows with experience.
· Leadership should be a hearts and minds approach.
· Work-life balance is crucial for team well-being.
· Failure is a learning opportunity, not something to fear.
· Building relationships can turn initial rejections into future opportunities.
· Instinct and intuition play a vital role in business decisions.
· Research shows women are less likely to receive CPR.
· Sustainability must be a core focus in all industries.
· Trust your instincts in business and personal interactions.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Michelle and her career background
04:16 Michelle’s approach to living without regrets
05:47 Michelle’s current reinvention and career confidence
07:30 Balancing intuition and logic in decision-making
08:56 Working with her husband and work-life integration
15:14 Facing and overcoming career challenges and setbacks
24:23 The importance of persistence and relationship-building in business
27:15 Michelle’s biggest career failure and lessons learned
30:01 Adapting to industry disruptions
37:17 Advice to younger self and importance of trusting instincts
40:53 Michelle’s insights on sustainability and AI in media
Episode 23 - Mike Burton 'The Token Male'
Season 1 · Episode 23
Tuesday, June 23, 2026 • Duration 32:47
In this episode of Recon, host Bev Williams interviews Mike Burton, a prominent figure in the construction industry, discussing his extensive career, insights on gender disparity, leadership challenges, and the importance of mentorship. Mike shares his experiences and lessons learned, emphasising the need for supportive networks and pathways for women in engineering. The conversation also touches on the future of the construction industry and advice for women in their early careers.
During our discussion, we explored the different phases of a man's career compared to those of women in construction. Mike noted that the pragmatic endurance stage women experience during their careers stands in stark contrast to men’s focus on stability and advancement during similar periods. This difference highlights the unique challenges women face in balancing work and family life, often leading to the development of essential skills that can benefit them in their careers.
Mike's philosophy is centred around giving back, which he attributes to his upbringing in the industry. He emphasised the significance of mentorship in his career, stating that he had many supporters early on who helped him succeed. By volunteering in mentoring programs, Mike has committed himself to nurturing the next generation of engineers and leaders in the industry. He believes that providing support and guidance enables individuals to flourish in their careers, especially women balancing family responsibilities and professional aspirations.
One of the most important lessons Mike shared from his career is the value of building relationships. He encourages young professionals to develop connections within their industry, emphasising that these relationships can provide support and opportunities throughout their careers. Networking is not just about professional connections but also about creating a community that can help each other succeed.
Mike's insights offer valuable lessons for both men and women in the construction industry. His commitment to mentorship, understanding of career phases, and leadership philosophy highlight the importance of support systems in fostering talent.
Episode 22 - Helen Collie
Season 1 · Episode 22
Tuesday, June 16, 2026 • Duration 45:29
In this episode of Recon, host Bev Williams speaks with Helen Collie, a partner at HKA and a chartered structural engineer. Helen shares her journey in the construction industry, discussing her transition into leadership, the importance of establishing boundaries between work and home life, and the challenges she faced, including the loss of her father. She emphasises the value of having a supportive team and the lessons learned from her experiences, including embracing one's uniqueness and the significance of shared values in a Collie environment.
In this conversation, Helen and Bev discuss the significant gender pay gap in the construction industry, the importance of representation and visibility for women in engineering, and the need for a cultural shift to support women in STEM fields. They explore the concept of failure, emphasising the importance of learning from experiences rather than letting them define one's worth. Helen shares her journey and insights on how to encourage more girls to pursue engineering, while also reflecting on her own career and the challenges faced along the way.
Helen’s experiences highlight the importance of authentic leadership in the construction industry. By embracing her leadership style, setting boundaries, and prioritising self-care, she not only enhances her own well-being but also fosters a supportive environment for her team. Aspiring leaders can learn valuable lessons from Helen’s journey, reminding us that leadership is about more than just a title; it’s about being true to oneself and empowering others.
Takeaways
· Leadership allows for personal expression and doing things one's own way.
· Establishing boundaries is crucial for work-life balance.
· Grief can impact career direction and stability.
· Supportive work environments are essential for well-being.
· Having a solid team with shared values is invaluable.
Episode 21 - Faye Allen
Season 1 · Episode 21
Thursday, June 4, 2026 • Duration 38:03
In this episode of Recon, host Bev Williams speaks with Faye Allen, Managing Director Quantum EMEA, at Rimkus who brings over three decades of experience in the construction industry. Faye shares her journey, the importance of leadership, and her groundbreaking book, "Building Women." We delve into Faye's insights and provide actionable takeaways for those looking to empower themselves and others in the construction field.
In addition to her extensive practical experience, Faye is the author of the best-selling book, "Building Women: How Everyone in Construction Can Win." The book serves as both a guide and a call to action for tackling systemic issues affecting women and men in the construction industry.
Faye emphasises the significance of leadership, particularly in creating an environment where everyone feels valued and safe. She shares how her role as a leader allows her to build a team that aligns with her cultural values. "What I'm really, really enjoying is being able to build a team around me and watching people grow and flourish," she explains.
Faye highlights the necessity of creating a safe environment where team members can express their thoughts and concerns. This involves regular one-on-one meetings where honest dialogues can occur.
By focusing on mentoring, Faye aims to help her team members develop their skills and confidence. This approach not only benefits the individuals but also enhances the overall team dynamic.
Faye believes that listening is one of the most critical skills a leader can possess. Faye encourages leaders to actively listen to their teams, clients, and subcontractors to better understand their needs and concerns.
Throughout her career, Faye has faced numerous challenges, including the persistent gender pay gap and issues related to workplace culture. She candidly shares her experiences of overcoming these obstaclesvand the importance of advocating for oneself.
Episode 20 - Racheal Cadey
Season 1 · Episode 20
Tuesday, June 2, 2026 • Duration 39:31
In this engaging interview, Racheal Cadey shares her journey through the construction and design industry, leadership lessons, overcoming unexpected challenges, and her vision for the future of construction. Discover practical insights, inspiring stories, and actionable advice from a seasoned industry leader.
Racheal admits she’s a reluctant leader, driven more by her core values than a desire for the spotlight. But her authenticity shines through in her daily habits: setting clear boundaries, supporting her team, and constantly learning from those around her.
Across decades of experience, Racheal shares her raw truths—how she filters the glitter from the gold, the lessons learned from tragedy, and her bold vision for the future of the industry.
Her mantra? “Wife, mother, leader”—a holistic approach to leadership that transcends career alone. This blend of personal integrity and professional drive empowers her to lead with both heart and clarity.
When life threw her its cruelest curve—a sudden, devastating loss—Racheal’s response revealed her greatest lesson: prepare for the unexpected, lean on your people, and keep moving forward.
Her story about Sarah Myland, who passed away unexpectedly, is a testament to resilience. They built a legacy called “My Day”—a ritual to honour her spirit, and her memory. It’s a reminder that even in tragedy, we find purpose, community, and a new way to move onward.
“I can filter gold from glitter,” an unforgettable phrase that perfectly captures her seasoned perspective. With decades of experience, she’s learned to recognise what truly matters: values, purpose, and the pursuit of impact.
This clarity allows her to navigate growth and change without losing her core. Her recognition, acceptance, and balance RAB are her North Star.
Episode 19 - Katrina Kostic Samen
Season 1 · Episode 19
Tuesday, May 26, 2026 • Duration 44:21
In this episode of Recon, host Bev Williams speaks with Katrina Kostic-Samen, a prominent figure in the commercial real estate industry. They discuss Katrina's career journey, her views on leadership versus management, the challenges she has faced, and the lessons learned along the way. Katrina emphasises the importance of mentorship, the unique challenges women face in leadership roles, and the realities of entrepreneurship. The conversation highlights the significance of resilience, adaptability, and the drive to succeed in a competitive industry.
Katrina shares her experiences with workplace bullying, the unexpected longevity of her career, and the resilience she developed through various crises. She emphasises the importance of empowering women in the construction industry and discusses her hopes for innovation and sustainability in the field.
Additionally, she explores the concept of rethinking work structures, including the potential benefits of a four-day work week, and offers valuable advice for young professionals navigating their careers.
In discussing leadership, Katrina draws a distinction between being a leader and being a manager. According to her, leadership is an inherent quality that involves building consensus and guiding others, while management often focuses on task execution. She believes that true leaders emerge during crises, demonstrating their ability to navigate challenges effectively.
Katrina shares valuable lessons from her extensive career, emphasising the importance of personal integrity and being proactive. She advises against discussing sensitive topics in public spaces, like elevators, and stresses the need to read everything before signing it, as your signature is your bond.
In conclusion, Katrina’s journey is a testament to the power of reinvention in one’s career. By embracing change, understanding the nuances of leadership, and maintaining a focus on personal integrity, professionals can navigate the complexities of their careers more effectively.
Episode 18 - Lisa Webb
Season 1 · Episode 18
Tuesday, May 19, 2026 • Duration 29:50
In this episode of Recon, host Bev Williams speaks with Lisa Webb, a Senior Planning Partner at Newmark UK, about her extensive career in the construction industry. Lisa shares insights on the importance of building relationships, the rewards of leadership, and the challenges she has faced, including personal loss. They discuss the significance of networking, the impact of mentorship, and the strides being made towards gender equality in the industry.
🌟The Rewards of a Transformative Career🌟
During the conversation, Lisa reflects on the most rewarding aspects of her career. Moreover, she emphasises the importance of social impact in her work.
🌟Leadership: Beyond Titles🌟
To Lisa, being authentic and building strong relationships is key. She has made it a point to be transparent about her commitments, especially regarding work-life balance. This approach has not only set a positive example for her colleagues but has also encouraged other women in her field to establish similar boundaries.
🌟Overcoming Challenges🌟
One of the most significant challenges Lisa faced was the sudden loss of her business partner, in a tragic accident. She describes this experience as a pivotal moment in her career, forcing her to confront her resilience and leadership capabilities. That tragedy became Lisa’s greatest lesson in resilience and trust — trust in herself, in her team, in the endless capacity we have to adapt and grow. The real victory? Seeing how your darkest moments can forge the strongest versions of yourself. Maybe that’s the point. Maybe resilience isn’t just about bouncing back. It’s about rising stronger after falling. Worth thinking about….
🌟The Power of Connections🌟
Lisa emphasises the importance of networking in building a successful career. Hop-Hop reflects her commitment to fostering supportive relationships and mentorship opportunities.
In conclusion, Lisa’s journey serves as an inspiring example of resilience, leadership, and the power of connection.
Episode 17 - Fiona Goddard
Season 1 · Episode 17
Tuesday, May 12, 2026 • Duration 31:38
In this episode of Recon, host Bev Williams speaks with Fiona Goddard, Head of MEP for UK and Ireland at AECOM. They discuss Fiona's journey in the engineering field, the importance of teamwork and leadership, the challenges of balancing work and family life, and the value of networking. Fiona shares her insights on overcoming challenges, embracing failure, and the evolving role of AI in engineering. The conversation emphasises the need for mentorship and support for emerging talent, as well as the importance of building confidence in the workplace.
Fiona Goddard is an accomplished leader in the engineering sector, currently overseeing a team of over 350 engineers at AECOM. She began her career at 17 as a trainee electrical engineer and has since built a reputation as a credible expert in her field. Fiona’s commitment to nurturing talent and her practical experience make her insights invaluable for anyone looking to advance in the engineering industry.
A key principle in Fiona’s leadership style is leading by example. By staying involved in the technical aspects of projects, she demonstrates her commitment and understanding of the work at hand.
Fiona shares her experience of balancing a demanding career while raising a family. She highlights the prevalent issue of guilt that working parents face, especially women, when trying to juggle professional responsibilities and family commitments.
One of the most critical lessons Fiona has learnt is the value of connecting with people in the industry. Building relationships beyond project discussions can lead to future collaborations and opportunities.
In conclusion, fostering the next generation of engineering leaders requires a commitment to teamwork, effective leadership, and building meaningful connections. By prioritising these elements, we can ensure a thriving future for the engineering profession.
Takeaways:
Episode 16 - Penny Vinten
Season 1 · Episode 16
Tuesday, April 28, 2026 • Duration 23:57
In this episode of Recon, host Bev Williams speaks with Penny Vinten, a seasoned professional in the construction industry. They discuss Penny's career journey, the importance of mentorship, leadership qualities, and the evolving landscape of the construction sector.
Penny shares her insights on navigating challenges, the significance of integrity, and her hopes for the future of women in construction. The conversation emphasises the value of experience, continuous learning, and supporting the next generation of leaders.
One of her most powerful insights? “Expertise opens doors. Integrity keeps them open.”
Everyone faces setbacks, but Penny’s story highlights that perseverance and integrity can turn even the darkest moments into victories. She recounts a period where her professionalism was questioned — an experience that shook her confidence and triggered panic attacks.Her response? Staying the course. With support from family and friends, Penny proved her innocence and emerged stronger. Her resilience teaches us that real strength lies in standing firm, fighting for what’s right, and trusting your judgment. A valuable lesson: “Don’t let external negativity define you. Your integrity is your most valuable asset.”
Takeaways:
Leadership is about daily integrity, consistency, and approachability.
Resilience and staying true to your values will see you through challenges.
Mentoring and supporting women accelerates positive change in the industry.
Building for the future requires social responsibility coupled with excellence.
Career paths are rarely linear—embrace the unpredictable and enjoy the ride.
Every day brings new challenges, and it's okay to have ups and downs.
Continuous learning is essential for effective leadership.
Integrity is the foundation of trust and long-term success.
Embrace change and continuous learning to stay relevant.
Resources:
Episode 15 - Kate Mason
Season 1 · Episode 15
Tuesday, April 21, 2026 • Duration 33:10
In this engaging episode of Recon, host Bev Williams speaks with Kate Mason, Senior Principal of Workplace Design at Unispace, about her extensive career in the construction industry.
They discuss the importance of relationships, the challenges of maternity leave, and the evolving role of women in leadership. Kate shares her insights on effective leadership, the significance of mentorship, and the need for greater support for women returning to work.
The conversation highlights the importance of using one's voice and the hope for a more inclusive future in the construction industry.
Takeaways:
· The most rewarding aspect of my career is the relationships I've built.
· Leadership is learned over time and requires self-reflection.
· It's important to support women returning from maternity leave.
· Judging others too quickly can hinder personal growth.
· Embracing age and experience can be empowering in the workplace.
· Mentorship is crucial for guiding women in their careers.
· The construction industry needs to attract women from an early age.
· Flexible roles can help women return to work after a break.
· Using your voice is essential for making change.
For more information on the 3 phases of a woman's career please head to the resources section at www.breathecoaching.co.uk
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Kate Mason and Her Journey
As we wrap up this series, it’s clear that collaboration and mutual support are essential in driving inclusion and innovation in our field.
Takeaways:
· The importance of mentorship and supporting emerging talent.
· The construction industry faces significant gender disparity, with only 9% of UK engineers being women.
· Leadership is about empathy, communication, and accountability.
· Building relationships in the industry is crucial for career success.
· The pandemic posed unique challenges for leaders in the construction sector.
· Women often develop super skills during the pragmatic endurance phase of their careers.
· Continuous learning and adapting to new technologies are essential for career growth.
For more information on the 3 phases of a woman's career please head to the resources section at www.breathecoaching.co.uk
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to the Podcast and Guest
04:34 Mike’s Career Overview and Achievements
11:21 Phases of Career Development: A Male Perspective
14:50 Leadership and Its Challenges
19:30 Lessons Learned and Insights for Women
25:30 Addressing Gender Disparity in Engineering
28:08 Failures and Unexpected Lessons
32:15 Supporting Women's Development in the Industry
· Failure to execute is not the end of the world.
· It's important to learn to share the load with a team.
· Embracing uniqueness can lead to personal satisfaction.
· Celebrating one's weirdness is a positive trait. Words can have a lasting impact on young minds.
· Statistics often hide deeper cultural issues.
· Failure can be reframed as a learning opportunity.
· Visibility of women in engineering is crucial for future generations.
· Encouraging girls to consider STEM is essential for change.
· It's important to enjoy the journey and successes in your career.
Chapters:
00:00 Introduction to Helen Collie
05:05 Reinventing Leadership and Personal Growth
08:15 Establishing Boundaries in Work and Life
13:09 Navigating Grief and Career Challenges
19:08 Support Systems in the Workplace
24:52 Lessons Learned from Team Dynamics
27:15 Embracing Uniqueness and Overcoming Insults
32:00 Gender Pay Gap in Construction
38:07 Redefining Failure
43:00 Visibility and Representation in Engineering
In conclusion, Faye’s insights provide a roadmap for women navigating the construction industry. From leadership to advocacy, her experiences exemplify the importance of community and support.
Takeaways:
· Active listening is a crucial skill in effective leadership.
· The gender pay gap remains a significant challenge in the industry.
· It's crucial to create psychologically safe spaces in workplaces.
· Many women do not report harassment due to fear & lack of support.
· Failure is a part of learning and growth in any career.
· Career paths can be non-linear & unexpected opportunities can arise.
· Mothers in the workplace bring valuable organisational skills.
· Cultural shifts are necessary for inclusivity in the construction industry.
· Support networks are vital for women navigating their careers.
08:52 Overcoming Challenges: Gender Pay Gap and Culture
11:56 The Importance of Listening
18:08 Reflections on Insults
22:48 Addressing Workplace Harassment
25:14 Learning from Failure
28:50 Unexpected Career Paths
32:00 Supporting Women in the Workplace
One of Racheal’s passionate pursuits is the Edge U-cation program which invests in students and young women, busting myths about industry roles from site to leadership.
Racheal’s story is a powerful reminder: authenticity, resilience, and vision are the bedrock of impactful leadership. You don’t have to be perfect or fearless—just committed to showing up, learning, and supporting others on their journey.
Takeaways:
Recognition, Acceptance, Balance—her guiding principles for self-awareness and managing relationships, careers, and personal growth.
Pause and reflect before responding to emails
Follow your own version of success and balance
Life’s surprises are inevitable—how you respond defines your resilience. Cherish your relationships, create meaningful rituals, and never underestimate the power of “onwards.”
True leadership isn’t about 'doing everything yourself' but about creating space for others to grow, supporting their muscle-building, and knowing when to pause and reflect.
As you grow and evolve, ask yourself: what is glitter—superficial distractions—and what is genuine gold? Focus on the impact and legacy you want to leave.
· Confidence comes with experience and is crucial for success.
· Building strong relationships is key to effective leadership.
· Flexibility in the workplace supports women in their careers.
· Mistakes are learning opportunities that can build trust.
· Self-care and rest are important for sustained success.
· You don't need a grand master plan to succeed in your career.
HOP HOP uses a relaxed, simple process to regularly introduce you to brand new connections every fortnight. For each chat, you get a warm email introduction and a mutually agreed time for a 30 minute conversation.Chat with fellow female professionals in a natural way. To sign up use link https://www.hophop.chat/p/join-female-property-professionals-like-you
