The Black Sherpa Podcast – Details, episodes & analysis

Introducing Jenny Okolo, clinical therapist, TEDx speaker, and founder of SASA - a company dedicated to supporting neurodiversity and wellbeing in the workplace. In this episode of The Black Sherpa Podcast, Jenny dives into crucial topics surrounding neurodiversity, mental health advocacy, and personal growth. 

Here are 5 key talking points to entice you to listen:

1. Navigating Neurodiversity and Socioeconomic Backgrounds: Jenny shares insights into how one's socioeconomic background can impact their neurodivergent journey, shedding light on the intersectionality of identity and mental health.
2. Social Media's Role in Neurodiversity Awareness: Explore the nuances of social media's impact on sharing information about neurodiversity, from amplifying awareness to perpetuating misinformation.
3. Equity, Mental Health, and Human Rights: Jenny emphasises the importance of viewing mental health as a human right, discussing the duty we all have to educate ourselves on issues that may not directly affect us.
4. Harnessing Shyness as Strength: From being a shy girl to delivering a TEDx talk, Jenny shares strategies on using shyness as a weapon and harnessing the power of positive affirmations to build confidence.
5. Career Progression, Bias, and Mentorship: Jenny delves into the impact of bias on career progression for minority employees, highlighting the value of mentorship from both within and outside one's organisation.

Tune in to The Black Sherpa Podcast for a thought-provoking conversation with Jenny Okolo, where she shares valuable insights on neurodiversity, mental health advocacy, and personal empowerment. Don't miss out on this enlightening discussion!

CONNECT WITH JENNY:

Instgarm: @JenOkolo
LinkedIN: Jenny Okolo
Website: SASA
TEDx Talk: How far can your empathy go? | Jenny Okolo | TEDxNHS

CONNECT WITH THE BLACK SHERPA

LinkedIn: Nyambe Sumbwanyambe

Instagram: @TheBlackSherpaPodcast

Website: theblacksherpapodcast.com

#theblacksherpa #socialmobility

The truth about what it takes to get ahead in life and business is out there…. It just not evenly distributed… YET!

If you like what you are listening to, please let me know. Post and tag the show on social media, rate and review wherever you are listening, or send me a message. I would love to hear from you.

1. From Bills to Stocks - Emmanuel's Journey to Financial Literacy: Discover Emmanuel's transformative journey from growing up in a household where bills were dreaded to becoming an advocate for investing and financial empowerment
2. The Power of Belief and Overcoming Setbacks: Gain insights into how Emmanuel turned setbacks into opportunities, proving that you are not defined by your circumstances but by your resilience and self-belief.
3. Representation Matters: Inspiring the Next Generation: Explore the impact of representation on young minds and the importance of diverse role models in inspiring academic and career aspirations.
4. Navigating Workplace Challenges and Corporate Governance: Delve into Emmanuel's experiences navigating workplace challenges, corporate governance, and the value of compliance in career progression.
5. Money Mindset and Wealth Building: Learn about Emmanuel's philosophy on money as a tool for creating more wealth and the importance of focusing on your strengths and serving your audience.

CONNECT WITH THE BLACK SHERPA

LinkedIn: Nyambe Sumbwanyambe

Instagram: @TheBlackSherpaPodcast

Website: theblacksherpapodcast.com

#theblacksherpa #socialmobility

The truth about what it takes to get ahead in life and business is out there…. It just not evenly distributed… YET!

If you like what you are listening to, please let me know. Post and tag the show on social media, rate and review wherever you are listening, or send me a message. I would love to hear from you.

Get ready for a rapid-fire round with Jeffrey Boakye!

Join us as we revisit our engaging chat with this former teacher turned dynamic writer, speaker, and educator in our Season 2 opener.

Discover Boakye's invaluable insights on success in life and business—tune in to Season 2, Episode 1 for the full scoop

CONNECT WITH JEFF

https://www.jeffreyboakye.com/

https://twitter.com/jeffreykboakye

https://www.instagram.com/jeffreykboakye

CONNECT WITH THE BLACK SHERPA

LinkedIn: Nyambe Sumbwanyambe

Instagram: @TheBlackSherpaPodcast

Website: theblacksherpapodcast.com

#theblacksherpa #socialmobility

The truth about what it takes to get ahead in life and business is out there…. It just not evenly distributed… YET!

If you like what you are listening to, please let me know. Post and tag the show on social media, rate and review wherever you are listening, or send me a message. I would love to hear from you.

Join us for a riveting conversation with Steven Fuller, Founder of Race in STEM, as we explore the intersection of diversity, inclusion, and performance in the world of STEM. 

Get ready for a melodic journey as Steven Fuller reflects on the transferable skills gleaned from his diverse career, where every note played becomes a lesson in resilience and adaptation

Here are 5 key talking points that will captivate you:

• Race in STEM: Steven delves into the powerful community he's cultivated through Race in STEM, advocating for diversity and inclusion in the STEM fields.
• Life as a Performance: Discover how Steven's varied career, from music to teaching to recruitment, has shaped his perspective on life and work as a performance.
• Transferable Skills: Learn how skills learned from music, such as starting what you finish, have translated into Steven's professional journey.
• Influence vs Manipulation: Explore the nuances between influence and manipulation, and how Steven leverages his "Smoozer" capability for the greater good.
• Challenges and Resilience: Gain insights into Steven's personal journey, from financial setbacks to career transitions, and how he navigates challenges with resilience and determination.

During this episode, we delve into some sensitive topics including the challenges of childbirth, which may be triggering to some listeners. Additionally, we discuss vaginismus, a condition I encountered for the first time in this conversation. If you find yourself affected by these discussions, please prioritise your well-being and consider reaching out for support.

For more information or support on childbirth-related challenges, you can visit the NHS website: NHS UK - Pregnancy and Childbirth

To learn more about vaginismus and seek support, you can visit the NHS website: NHS UK - Vaginismus

Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation! Tune in now to gain valuable insights into empowering diversity in STEM and so much more!

In a heartfelt caveat, I must acknowledge a slight inaccuracy in one of the stories shared during the episode. My wife has gracefully informed me that there was a “brief” period where she didn't enjoy playing the piano and lost 'a little' confidence, but she never truly hated it. It's a humbling reminder of the nuances in personal experiences and the importance of accurate storytelling. Thank you for your understanding and continued support.

CONNECT WITH STEVEN

LinkedIN: Steven Fuller
Website: https://www.trinnovogroup.com/race-in-stem 

CONNECT WITH THE BLACK SHERPA

LinkedIn: Nyambe Sumbwanyambe

Instagram: @TheBlackSherpaPodcast

Website: theblacksherpapodcast.com

#theblacksherpa #socialmobility

The truth about what it takes to get ahead in life and business is out there…. It just not evenly distributed… YET!

If you like what you are listening to, please let me know. Post and tag the show on social media, rate and review wherever you are listening, or send me a message. I would love to hear from you.

Ready to explore the world of inclusion, equity, and social mobility? Join us on The Black Sherpa Podcast as we dive into an inspiring conversation with Joanne Conway, Head of Inclusion & Culture, International at DLA Piper, in our latest episode! 

🎙️ Here are 5 key talking points that will leave you wanting more:

1. Creating a Culture of Inclusion: Joanne shares insights on asking tough questions to foster a culture of inclusion for everyone, emphasizing the importance of empathy and allowing for differences in opinion.
2. Bridging the Gap: Discover the disparity between what employees want in terms of equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) and what leaders are striving to deliver. Joanne highlights key areas of focus for big EDI organisations.
3. Navigating Privilege: Explore how leaders understand privilege and its impact on decision-making processes, along with Joanne's personal journey from a challenging upbringing to corporate success.
4. Pushing for Progression: Joanne advocates for pushing boundaries in career development, promoting oneself, and seeking constructive feedback to drive progression and equity in the workplace.
5. Social Mobility Challenges: Gain insights into the complexities of navigating social mobility, balancing old and new worlds, and advocating for change based on robust business cases, including Joanne's involvement with the 93% club.

Joanne's dedication to equity and social justice shines through her work at DLA Piper and her commitment to giving back through volunteerism and academia. Join us as we delve into her inspiring journey and glean valuable insights into creating a more inclusive world. Don't miss out on this empowering conversation!

CONNECT WITH JOANNE:

LinkedIN: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joanneconwaydlap/

93% Club: https://www.93percent.club/

CONNECT WITH THE BLACK SHERPA

LinkedIn: Nyambe Sumbwanyambe

Instagram: @TheBlackSherpaPodcast

Website: theblacksherpapodcast.com

#theblacksherpa #socialmobility

The truth about what it takes to get ahead in life and business is out there…. It just not evenly distributed… YET!

If you like what you are listening to, please let me know. Post and tag the show on social media, rate and review wherever you are listening, or send me a message. I would love to hear from you.

In this episode of The Black Sherpa Podcast, I sit down with the remarkable Hannah Awonuga, Group Head of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at Knight Frank. With nearly 2 decades of experience in banking and a passion for championing diversity, Hannah shares her insights and personal journey that have shaped her into the influential DEI thought leader she is today.

Key Discussion Points:

• Guiding Light and Cultural Battles: Hannah reflects on her upbringing, navigating the clash of cultures at home, and the profound lessons learned from those experiences. She shares how these challenges served as a guiding light, shaping her perspective on diversity and inclusion.
• From Homelessness to Empowerment: Hannah opens up about her experience of homelessness and the transformative power of resilience. She emphasises the importance of understanding and embracing vulnerability, acknowledging that fear of returning to the bottom can be a driving force for positive change.
• Winging It in Parenting: With humour and candour, Hannah and the host delve into the chaotic yet rewarding journey of parenting. They share anecdotes and insights, highlighting the growth and learning that comes with raising children.
• Career Reflections: We discuss the significance of knowing what Hannah didn't want in her career, emphasising the value of self-awareness and clarity in professional pursuits. She shares her experiences with mentorship and sponsorship, stressing their role in breaking barriers and building diversity in leadership.
• Impactful Leadership and Representation: We explore dynamic approaches to making an impact in the workplace and advocates for diverse representation in senior roles. She provides advice on fostering inclusive environments and unlocking the full potential of talent through mentorship and support.
• Embracing Identity: As a black woman, Hannah sees her identity as a superpower and leverages her unique voice and perspective to drive change. She shares insights into managing dyslexia in the workplace and emphasises the importance of embracing diversity in all its dimensions, including social mobility.

Hannah Awonuga's journey from banking to becoming a leading voice in diversity, equity, and inclusion is nothing short of inspiring. With a career spanning nearly two decades and accolades including the 2021 WeAreTheCity Rising Star Award, Hannah's impact is felt across industries. As a non-executive director for Progress Together, she continues to champion socioeconomic diversity in the financial services sector.

With a vast LinkedIn network and a reputation as a passionate speaker and facilitator, Hannah brings a wealth of experience and expertise to every conversation. Her commitment to creating inclusive spaces and driving meaningful change serves as a beacon of inspiration for future leaders.

Tune in to this episode of The Black Sherpa Podcast to gain valuable insights from Hannah's journey and learn how to embrace diversity, equity, and inclusion in both your personal and professional life.

CONNECT WITH HANNAH

LInkedIN: https://www

CONNECT WITH THE BLACK SHERPA

LinkedIn: Nyambe Sumbwanyambe

Instagram: @TheBlackSherpaPodcast

Website: theblacksherpapodcast.com

#theblacksherpa #socialmobility

The truth about what it takes to get ahead in life and business is out there…. It just not evenly distributed… YET!

If you like what you are listening to, please let me know. Post and tag the show on social media, rate and review wherever you are listening, or send me a message. I would love to hear from you.

Welcome or welcome back! In this episode where we dive into the powerful intersection of education, creativity, and community development with Professor Katy Shaw, a leading figure in 21st-century writing and publishing at Northumbria University, UK.

Professor Shaw shares insights from her personal journey, highlighting the profound impact of education and the ethos of hard work instilled by her parents. Her father transitioned from industry to teaching, shaping her lifelong commitment to personal development and inspiring learning in others.

Key Highlights: 

STEAM Education and Problem Solving: We explore the evolution of STEM to STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics), Professor Shaw emphasises the importance of leveraging both hard and soft skills to tackle complex problems in today's world.

AHRC Creative Communities and Cultural Value: We delving into her role as Director of the UKRI/AHRC Creative Communities program, Professor Shaw discusses the transformative power of culture and the importance of embracing fearless failure in creative endeavors.

Challenges and Celebrations: As a trailblazing woman in higher education leadership, Professor Shaw shares anecdotes of overcoming stereotypes and celebrates the diversity of perspectives in academia, challenging preconceived notions of what a professor "should" look like.

Collaboration, Listening, and Resilience: Professor Shaw emphasises the significance of collaboration and deep listening in driving innovation, while also addressing the issue of burnout and advocating for kindness and support within academic and creative communities.

I hope your enjoy this insightful conversation with Professor Katy Shaw, a visionary leader shaping the future of education, creativity, and cultural development.  Don't forget to subscribe and leave a review!

CONNECT WITH PROFESSOR KATY SHAW:

• Twitter: @profkatyshaw
• Instagram: @profk82
• Northumbria University Profile: Prof Kay Shaw
• TedTalk: Breaking a Class Ceiling: The Value of Diversity in Creative Industries
• A Writing Chance 

CONNECT WITH THE BLACK SHERPA

LinkedIn: Nyambe Sumbwanyambe

Instagram: @TheBlackSherpaPodcast

Website: theblacksherpapodcast.com

#theblacksherpa #socialmobility

The truth about what it takes to get ahead in life and business is out there…. It just not evenly distributed… YET!

If you like what you are listening to, please let me know. Post and tag the show on social media, rate and review wherever you are listening, or send me a message. I would love to hear from you.

Get ready for one hell of an  episode of the Black Sherpa Podcast featuring David McQueen. David is  family man first, the husband of one, father of two and friend of many. He has founded and co-founded a number of businesses including Q Squared, Black Founders Hub and Evermoor and sits as a Non Exec on the advisory board of many companies offering support on leadership and financial competence. David is more than just a leader—he has the uncanny knack for using comedy and absolute candor to inspire others to reach their full potential and be the best versions of themselves. 

Key Highlights:

Leadership by Accident:

David fell into leadership by accident but quickly realised the impact he could have by winning trust. Learn how he cut his teeth working with the ones they called the "bad kids" and emerged as a trusted advisor.

Values and Relationships:

Discover David's insights on surrounding yourself with people who share similar values and knowing the difference between being a friend and being friendly. Explore how he remixes lessons from his parents to inform his own parenting style.

The Brave Leader:

David advocates for more bravery in leadership, urging leaders to be less afraid and more courageous in decision-making. Gain valuable insights into the building blocks of bravery and driving positive change.

The Compassionate Provocateur:

Uncover David's unique approach to coaching and mentoring, earning him the title of the compassionate provocateur. Learn how he uses comedy and candor to shine a light in dark times and drive personal and professional growth.

Three Killer Questions:

David shares three killer questions people should ask their managers to deepen relationships, better understand their boss, and enable career progression. These questions are essential tools for personal and professional development.

David McQueen's journey is a testament to the power of leadership, bravery, and surrounding yourself with the right people. Tune in for invaluable insights and be inspired to embrace your own journey of growth and empowerment.

PS: We are all leaders in some way shape or form and IFFFF you want to be the best version of yourself in that role Go GET THE DAVIDS NEW BOOK BRUV! 

Small Print: 

While this episode may not meet our usual audio quality standards due to unforeseen recording conditions, rest assured that the invaluable insights shared by David McQueen remain intact. 

Sit back, relax, and soak in the wisdom he generously shares. Enjoy!This episode is not as good as my usual audio quality, we had a late and expected change in receding conditions but by no means enough to miss the value David pays forward in conversation. ENJOY! 

CONNECT WITH DAVID McQUEEN:

• Website:https://davidmcqueen.co.uk 
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mrdavidmcqueen/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/

CONNECT WITH THE BLACK SHERPA

LinkedIn: Nyambe Sumbwanyambe

Instagram: @TheBlackSherpaPodcast

Website: theblacksherpapodcast.com

#theblacksherpa #socialmobility

The truth about what it takes to get ahead in life and business is out there…. It just not evenly distributed… YET!

If you like what you are listening to, please let me know. Post and tag the show on social media, rate and review wherever you are listening, or send me a message. I would love to hear from you.

Join us for an electrifying episode of the Black Sherpa Podcast featuring Aaron Burns—a dynamic force breaking barriers in finance and education. From professional footballer to Life Insurance Specialist and Public Speaker, Aaron's journey is nothing short of inspiring.

Aaron, a former professional Manchester United Footballer turned advocate for diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunities, shares his remarkable journey. With a passion for empowering young minds, Aaron's impact extends far beyond the field.

Key Highlights:

From the Pitch to Finance: Discover Aaron's seamless transition from professional football to Financial Services. With a keen eye for opportunity and clear communication, he empowers individuals to unlock their potential.

The Power of Personal Branding: Aaron delves into the importance of personal protection (insurance) and explores the role of personal branding in shaping one's trajectory.

Lessons from Moss Side: Growing up in Moss Side with a young single mother, Aaron realised his duty to educate others early in life. He shares pivotal moments from his childhood and the choices that shaped his path.

Mentorship and Vision: Aaron reflects on the profound impact of mentorship and how vision boards helped him realise his ambitions. He shares insightful anecdotes and lessons learned along the way.

Embracing the "Mamba Mentality": Adopting an elitist mentality, Aaron discusses the "mamba mentality" and its role in constant self-improvement. Explore his trademark sayings and mindset for success.

Aaron Burns is more than a success story—he's a beacon of inspiration, guiding others towards a brighter future. Tune in to gain valuable insights and be inspired to empower minds in your own journey.

CONNECT WITH AARON:

• Instagram: a8burns87
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaron-burns-967955b0/ 
• Join Aaron's Book Club: https://chat.whatsapp.com/Gts0oQOsOXLFKeZ0lJvaqU
• You Tube: https://www.youtube.com/@LiveOnAireAB

CONNECT WITH THE BLACK SHERPA

LinkedIn: Nyambe Sumbwanyambe

Instagram: @TheBlackSherpaPodcast

Website: theblacksherpapodcast.com

#theblacksherpa #socialmobility

The truth about what it takes to get ahead in life and business is out there…. It just not evenly distributed… YET!

If you like what you are listening to, please let me know. Post and tag the show on social media, rate and review wherever you are listening, or send me a message. I would love to hear from you.

In this episode of The Black Sherpa Podcast, join me for an inspiring conversation with Toni Kent – a dynamic speaker, writer, and stand-up comedian, specialising in social mobility and corporate culture. From her rebellious school days to becoming a recognised authority, Toni shares her transformative journey and insights on the value of mentorship.

Toni Kent brings a unique blend of wit, wisdom, and 20+ years of IT industry experience to the table. As a sought-after speaker and workshop facilitator, she empowers audiences to embrace change and foster inclusive corporate cultures.

Highlights:

The Naughty Little Girl with Big Dreams:

Toni reflects on her rebellious school years and how being a "cuckoo" in wealthier homes raised her aspirations. Discover how she transformed from a girl who failed her GCSEs to a respected authority in her field.

Finding Gravitas and Authority:

With her trademark humour, Toni shares how she cultivated gravitas and authority in what she says and writes. Learn how she leveraged the "gift of the gab" to navigate professional challenges and carve out her path.

The Power of Mentorship:

Toni emphasises the value of mentorship in her journey. Hear her insights on the impact of guidance and support from mentors, and how it shaped her career trajectory. 

Toni Kent's Workshops and Podcast:

• Toni's workshops on embracing change and fostering inclusive cultures are a testament to her commitment to social mobility.
• Don't miss out on her podcast, Challenging University, where inspiring non-graduate career stories are showcased, highlighting organisations that support disadvantaged individuals.

Toni Kent's journey is a testament to resilience, humour, and the power of embracing change. Tune in to gain valuable insights and be inspired to create positive transformations in your own life and workplace.

CONNECT WITH TONI 

Connect with Toni Kent:

• Website: www.tonikent.co.uk
• Podcast: www.challenging.university
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/toni_j_kent/
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tonijkent/

CONNECT WITH THE BLACK SHERPA

LinkedIn: Nyambe Sumbwanyambe

Instagram: @TheBlackSherpaPodcast

Website: theblacksherpapodcast.com

#theblacksherpa #socialmobility

The truth about what it takes to get ahead in life and business is out there…. It just not evenly distributed… YET!

If you like what you are listening to, please let me know. Post and tag the show on social media, rate and review wherever you are listening, or send me a message. I would love to hear from you.