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Explore every episode of the podcast Women in Transport

Dive into the complete episode list for Women in Transport. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.

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TitlePub. DateDuration
Exploring Diabetes Awareness: Intersectional Perspectives on Prevention and Management04 Sep 202400:37:59

In this episode of Women in Transport, we’re speaking to Clare Murphy and Kate Walker about diabetes, and the risks it poses in the road haulage industry.

5 million people in the UK have diabetes, and amongst people who drive for a living, it could be as many as 1 in 3 with type 2 diabetes. The Road Haulage Association are on a mission to reduce those numbers, with their One Less campaign and support for their members to get tested and make realistic changes to their lives to reduce the impact of diabetes. 

In this episode we discuss those changes and the responsibilities of employers to address what is really a workplace problem.

Clare Murphy is HR Business Partner at The Road Haulage Association. You can find more about their campaigns and their podcast episode at www.rha.uk.net/About/Wellbeing

Kate Walker is CEO of the Diabetes Safety Organisation www.diabetessafety.org

Find out your type 2 diabetes risk at https://riskscore.diabetes.org.uk/start

Sponsored Content: This episode is proudly supported by The RHA, a member-led trade association supporting people and businesses in the road transport industry.

Who offer a voice for their members to work with governments, policy makers, and local authorities across the UK on the issues most important to them.

Find out more about the Women in Transport Intersectionality Programme www.womenintransport.com/intersectionality

Send in a voice message podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/womenintransport/message


Women in Transport is presented by Shireen Ali-Khan from Women in Transport.
The series is produced by Emily Crosby Media with editing assistance from Liam Heffernan.

Intersectional Journeys: Magdalena Nowak's Path Through Challenges and Triumphs21 Aug 202400:37:40

In this episode of Women in Transport, we’re speaking to Magdalena Nowak about her life and career.

Magdalena began her life in Communist Poland, dreaming of travel and adventure. After experiencing flooding and homelessness, she left Poland and lived and worked around Europe before settling in the UK. She worked her way up in the NHS for ten years, before making the change to become a train guard just six years ago. But Magdalena didn’t stop there. At Southwestern, she has continued to thrive, now working as an Operations Trainer at Network Rail.

Magdalena’s story is one of courage, resilience, and leaning into change, that we can all learn from. 


You can follow Magdalena on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/in/magdalena-nowak-cmgr-mcmi-72941519a/

Find out more about the Women in Transport Intersectionality Programme www.womenintransport.com/intersectionality

Send in a voice message podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/womenintransport/message


Women in Transport is presented by Shireen Ali-Khan from Women in Transport.
The series is produced by Emily Crosby Media with editing assistance from Liam Heffernan.

South Asian Heritage Month26 Jul 202301:02:06

In this episode we hear the stories from our guests, talk about representation, belonging and allyship to mark South Asian Heritage Month.


We are joined by;

  • Daljit Kalirai, Sales & Partnerships Director, National Express
  • Jenita Treacy, Senior Product Manager, Transport for London
  • Nafisa Nathani, EDI Project Manager, Network Rail
  • Monica Kohil, Senior Lawyer, Guard AS and President, WISTA UK
  • Rupali Sharma-Patel, Head of Assisted Transport; On Demand Transport, Transport for London



Infertility Awareness23 Jun 202301:01:04

In this episode we are lifting the lid of infertility and how this effects women at work.

This episode we are joined by:

Becky Kearns, Fertility Matters at Work

Jo Foxall, Transport for Wales and Women in Transport Wales hub lead

Jo Pobrotyn, Women in Transport

Karen Camilleri, Camilleri Appointments

Lucy Smith, Taylor Woodrow

Vicky Glover, Kier Highways


and hosted by Shireen Ali-Khan Women in Transport


This episode is supported by Fertility Matters at Work - Ensuring fertility is recognised and supported in all organisations.




Pride14 Jun 202301:12:11

In our third episode we mark Pride Month and delve into what belonging means for our LGBTQI+ colleagues as well as touching upon "otherness" and intersectionality. Hear from our guests as they speak about their experiences, allyship, hopes and just how far the workplace has come.

Our host, Shireen Ali-Khan, Intersectionality Lead, Women in Transport, and specialist consultant, is joined by co-host Charlie Barnes Innovation Project Lead, Consumer Vulnerability at UKPN. They are joined by:


Melissa Reynard, Project Director, COWI UK Limited

Saima Razzaq, Director of Change and Communications, Birmingham Pride

Holly Taylor, Regional Communications Manager (South West), National Highways

Joe Brown, Strategic Delivery & Change Manager and Chair of the LGBTQ+ colleague network, Transport for London


Find out more about Women in Transport

Let us know what you think of this episode in our poll.

Join us next time as we hear more from the women in our sector.



Maternal Mental Health03 May 202300:57:17

In our second episode we delve into maternal mental health for Maternal Mental Health Awareness Week. Hear from our guests as they speak about their experiences, hopes for others and how the workplace can support mothers.  

Our host: Shireen Ali-Khan, Intersectionality Lead, Women in Transport, and specialist consultant is joined by;


  • Jo Field, President of Women in Transport, CEO and Founder, JFG Communications
  • Daljit Kalirai, West Midlands Regional Lead, Women in Transport and Sales and Partnerships Director, National Express
  • Philo Daniel, Global Director, Aviation and Urban Security, Smiths Detection
  • Susan Alake, Head of Governance and Assurance, Rail Delivery Group
  • Jon Manning, CEO and Founder, Arthur Ellis - Mental Health Support

For more details on Women in Transport visit us!

The Arthur Ellis not-for-profit 1:1 service is there for anyone from the age of 8 years old all the way through to people in their 90s and beyond! Working directly with companies to enable their staff to access the service including healthcare and education sectors. Please speak to your employer about their 1:1 service and see how it may help you or your colleagues. If you might feel like you could do with some help, or would like to refer a member of your family, no matter how big or small the issue ahead, you can self-refer on the website and chat to the team.


For more information on Maternal Mental Health Week visit the Maternal Mental Health Alliance


Join us next time as we hear more from the women in our sector.


International Women's Day and Women's History Month06 Mar 202301:39:35

This bumper first episode take us into International Women’s Day and Women’s History Month – our guests will lead us through their career highlights, career lows, talk about the allies they had or indeed wished they’d had and what their aspirations are for the next generation of transport professionals. 

Our host: Shireen Ali-Khan, Intersectionality Lead, Women in Transport, and specialist consultant 

Our guests are: 

  • Mel Clark, Director of Health, Safety and Wellbeing, National Highways 
  • Marwa El-Sheemy, Project Manager (Diversity & Inclusion), Bechtel 
  • Fiona Hamilton, Transport Manager, ACS&T Logistics 
  • Hadil Zambour, Civil Engineer Trainee, Kier 
  • Marcia Williams, People Manager, Delivery Manager and Diversity and Inclusion Lead, Transport for London 
  • Sonya Byers, CEO, Women in Transport

For more details on how you can get involved with Women in Transport visit us at https://www.womenintransport.com/

Join us next time as we hear more from the women in our sector.

Free to Be Me: Conversations with Transport Pioneers Celebrating South Asian Heritage Month07 Aug 202400:41:09

In this episode of Women in Transport, we’re celebrating the South Asian pioneers of the UK transport industry. We’ve interviewed four guests from around the sector, to talk about their careers, the challenges they faced and their advice for young South Asians as they enter the workforce.

Sathi Singh is Head of PMO at Southeastern

Hitesh Mandalia is Support Manager at tfl

Daljit Kalirai is Interim CEO Women in Transport

Liaqat Ali is retired, after a career in the transport and security sectors.


Find out more about the Women in Transport Intersectionality Programme www.womenintransport.com/intersectionality

Send in a voice message podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/womenintransport/message


Women in Transport is presented by Shireen Ali-Khan from Women in Transport.
The series is produced by Emily Crosby Media with editing assistance from Liam Heffernan.

Unlocking Success: The Transformative Power of Networks24 Jul 202400:40:27

In this episode of Women in Transport, we’re speaking to Hannah Winstanley and Donna Kelly about networks.

Even in 2024, women face discrimination at work, especially in male dominated industries, such as transport. Women’s networks can be a powerful way to overcome the barriers to success that women face, helping you to find mentors, allies and advice at every stage of your career.

Hannah Winstanley is General Manager & Country Lead, UK at Brightly. She is one of the founders of Flare - Female Local Authority Roads Engagement. 

Find out more here - https://www.womenintransport.com/events/introducing-flare

Donna Kelly is Service Manager - Highway Operations and Protection at Hammersmith & Fulham Council. She is one of the founders of LoWEG - London Women in Engineering Group.

Find out more here - https://linktr.ee/loweg

Sponsored Content: This episode is proudly supported by Brightly, a Siemens company. Brightly is the global leader in intelligent asset management solutions – because they know that smarter assets drive more sustainable communities

Find out more about the Women in Transport Intersectionality Programme www.womenintransport.com/intersectionality

Send in a voice message podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/womenintransport/message


Women in Transport is presented by Shireen Ali-Khan from Women in Transport.


The series is produced by Emily Crosby Media with editing assistance from Liam Heffernan.

Unmasking Microaggressions: Navigating the Subtle Strains of Everyday Bias, with Cecilia Harvey10 Jul 202400:34:53

In this episode of Women in Transport, we’re speaking to Cecilia Harvey about microaggressions.


How can you recognise microaggressions in your workplace, and help to reduce their impact?

Cecilia gives tangible examples of what microaggressions are, how they can affect those who receive them, and how we can call them out, whether we are on the receiving end or as allies.


Cecilia Harvey is a Equity, Diversity & Inclusion Consultant, and Founder or Cultural Nexus Ltd.

You can find her on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/ceciliaharvey/


Find out more about the Women in Transport Intersectionality Programme www.womenintransport.com/intersectionality

Send in a voice message podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/womenintransport/message



Women in Transport is presented by Shireen Ali-Khan from Women in Transport.

The series is produced by Emily Crosby Media with editing assistance from Liam Heffernan.

Welcome back to the Women in Transport podcast - Series 205 Jul 202400:00:49

Women in Transport is back for series 2!


Episode 1 will be released on 10th July 2024, and there will be new episodes every fortnight. 

Be sure to follow or subscribe so that you don’t miss an episode.


Find out more about the Women in Transport Intersectionality Programme www.womenintransport.com/intersectionality

Send in a voice message podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/womenintransport/message



Women in Transport is presented by Shireen Ali-Khan from Women in Transport.
The series is produced by Emily Crosby Media with editing assistance from Liam Heffernan.

Allyship29 Nov 202300:46:11

The final episode of season one of The Women in Transport Podcast!

On the topic of Allyship, in recognition of International Men's Day, 16 Days of Activism against gender based violence and White Ribbon Day.


We dive into what it really means to be an ally, and how we can show up for one another without getting lost in the language.

Shireen Ali-Khan was joined by co-host Gary Lincoln and wonderful guests Hira Ali and David Hampson-Ghani


🎯 To find out more about the ⁠16 Days of Activism⁠

🎯 To find out more about White Ribbon Day

🎯 To find out more about the Women in Transport ⁠Intersectionality Programme⁠ and how you can get involved

🎯 To hear our ⁠podcasts


Menopause Awareness01 Nov 202300:49:41

In this episode of the ⁠⁠Women in Transport⁠⁠ Podcast we're are discussing Menopause.

Menopause is a natural phase of life for many women, yet it often remains shrouded in mystery, with countless myths and misunderstandings. We're here to shed light on the subject and offer insights, advice, and support.

Our host, Shireen Ali-Khan is joined by;

Professor Carole Davis, Director, Carole L. Davis Associates.

Lynsey Michelle Turner, Senior Technician and Apprentice Transport Planner, AECOM

Vikram Sinai Talaulikar, Specialist in Reproductive Medicine at UCLH and Hon. Associate Professor in Women’s Health at UCL

Join us as we emphasise the importance of open communication, empathy, and support for women experiencing menopause and through all life stages.


Saluting our Sisters: Black History Month18 Oct 202301:15:14

In our latest episode of the Women in Transport Podcast we're diving deep into the rich tapestry of Black History Month. Join us as we Salute our Sisters on this captivating journey. Talking about representation, history, and hope.

Our host, Shireen Ali-Khan is joined by four wonderful guests;

Jackie Anyango; Inclusion Lead, Galliford Try

Lorraine Mhonyera; Founder of Ethnicity & Race in Rail, Network Rail

Marcia Williams; People Manager, Diversity & Inclusion, Transport for London

Melanie Clarke; Director of Health Safety & Wellbeing, National Highways

We'll explore the significance of representation and understanding historical contexts as we discuss the ongoing struggle for racial equality and justice. Our guests will shed light on the challenges faced by Black communities and the critical work being done to address systemic racism and inequality.

Join us for an enlightening, thought-provoking, and celebratory conversation as we Salute our Sisters.

Don't miss this compelling episode of the Women in Transport Podcast as we come together to honour, learn from, and uplift Black voices and experiences during Black History Month.

Beyond Bias: Mastering Inclusive Recruitment26 Sep 202301:04:36

In this thought-provoking episode of we delve deep into the world of inclusive recruitment, exploring strategies and insights to create a more equitable and diverse workforce.

Hosted by Shireen Ali-Khan, and joined by our guest experts; Mark Lomas - Head of Culture, Lloyd's of London, Laura Taylor - HR Director, Road Haulage Association, Naomi Barringer, HR Director TRL and Jo Major - Founder, Diversity in Recruitment, who bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table.

Join us as we unravel the intricate web of biases that often taint the hiring process and discover practical steps to break free from them. Our guests share personal anecdotes and research-backed practices to transform your organisation's recruitment efforts. From addressing unconscious biases to fostering an inclusive culture, this episode is a comprehensive guide to redefining your approach to talent acquisition.

We'll also explore how technology and data-driven methods can help in achieving inclusive recruitment goals while highlighting real-world success stories that showcase the positive impact of diverse teams on business outcomes.

Tune in and take the first steps toward building a workforce that reflects the richness of our society, fuels innovation, and propels your organisation towards a brighter, more inclusive future.

This episode is supported by Diversity in Recruitment, Helping agency and internal recruiters to get to grips with Diversity and Inclusion. To find out more about the Women in Transport Podcasts and how you can reach your audience through sponsoring, visit us on www.womenintransport.com/intersectionality.

Fit for Her: Addressing PPE Needs for Women in the Workforce16 Oct 202400:43:52

In this episode of Women in Transport, we’re speaking to Katherine Evans and Amanda Marshall about the critical issue of PPE (Personal Protective Equipment) for women. 

Katherine emphasizes the gendered nature of PPE and its impact on women's safety and confidence. Amanda shares her personal experience with ill-fitting PPE and her innovative solution of adding a zip to coveralls for easier removal. They discuss the interconnectedness of PPE with broader issues like intersectionality and the need for inclusive design. The conversation underscores the importance of networks, collaboration, and continuous innovation to address these challenges effectively.


Hi, I'm Katherine (she/her), an award-winning women's equity consultant and mining geologist. I'm the mental health & wellbeing chair for the Quarries National Joint Advisory Committees (QNJAC) and founder of Bold as Brass, a women’s equity tribe driving industry culture change.

Bold as Brass amplifies women’s voices, advocates for safety in heavy industry, and offers free career coaching. I consult on women's safety in traditionally masculine workplaces, helping employers address inequity and improve conditions. For two years, I've worked to disrupt the PPE industry, ensuring inclusivity is integral to the design process. Together, we're making strides in intersectional safety.

Find Katherine on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/katherineevansboldasbrass


Amanda Marshall is the founder of 3 Donkeys, a British brand specialising in versatile, high-quality coveralls for women. With a deep passion for agriculture and rural life, Amanda recognised the need for practical, durable workwear that caters specifically to women. Drawing on her own experiences and understanding of the challenges faced by women in farming, Amanda created 3 Donkeys to offer comfortable, functional clothing without compromising on style. Her innovative two-part coveralls are designed for ease and convenience, allowing women to tackle their work in all weathers. Amanda continues to champion women's workwear in the agricultural sector.

Find Amanda on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/amanda-marshall-b5579a174


Find out more about the Women in Transport Intersectionality Programme www.womenintransport.com/intersectionality

Send in a voice message podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/womenintransport/message


Women in Transport is presented by Shireen Ali-Khan from Women in Transport.


The series is produced by Emily Crosby Media with editing assistance from Liam Heffernan.

Leading with Purpose: Georgia Yexley on Sustainable Transport, Intersectionality, and Building Loud Mobility02 Oct 202400:50:03

In this episode of Women in Transport, we’re speaking to Georgia Yexley about sustainable transport, ADHD and intersectionality. She shares about her career to date, from working at Mobike to founding her own company, and what it feels like to be the lone black woman in an organisation. 

Georgia Yexley is an inclusive sustainable mobility expert and advocate based in London, UK. Her years with high-growth international micromobility operators, provided the opportunity to work with hundreds of cities across the globe, on achieving their sustainable transport aims. In 2023, she founded Loud Mobility, turning this global experience and network towards delivering high impact, and cross-sector projects. All with the aim of raising the volume of joyful sustainable journeys.

Find out more about Share the Joy here -  https://www.loudmobility.co.uk/campaign/share-the-joy


Find out more about the Women in Transport Intersectionality Programme www.womenintransport.com/intersectionality

Send in a voice message podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/womenintransport/message

Women in Transport is presented by Shireen Ali-Khan from Women in Transport.


The series is produced by Emily Crosby Media with editing assistance from Liam Heffernan.

Impact Matters: Voices on Inclusion18 Sep 202401:00:04

In this episode of Women in Transport, we have a bumper edition for National Inclusion Week. We’re speaking to a variety of guests with connections to Women in Transport for their take on how to promote inclusion in the workplace.

Joining me are - 

  • Laura Roche, Senior Social Sustainability Manager at Strabag, SCS Railways
  • Joanna Hill, Volunteer Northwest Regional Lead for Women in Transport
  • Iain Smith, Exec Coach / Mentor
  • Mel Clarke, Health, Safety and Wellbeing Director for National Highways
  • Hira Ali, Executive Coach
  • Jo Foxall, Customer Experience Director at Transport for Wales
  • And Natalia Martins, Mentee Engagement Lead at Women in Transport

Find out more about the Women in Transport Intersectionality Programme www.womenintransport.com/intersectionality

Send in a voice message podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/womenintransport/message


Women in Transport is presented by Shireen Ali-Khan from Women in Transport.

The series is produced by Emily Crosby Media with editing assistance from Liam Heffernan.

Siu Mun Li: 25 Years in Infrastructure, Embracing Change, and the Power of Community11 Dec 202400:40:45

In this episode of Women in Transport, we’re speaking to Siu Mun Lee about her 25 year career in infrastructure projects.

We discuss the fast pace of large scale projects, the value of taking a pause to re-evaluate your career, and the importance of networks and community. Siu reflects on how her Chinese background shaped her childhood and career aspirations, and how attitudes to bullying and racism have changed.

Siu Mun Li is a distinguished civil engineer with over 23 years of experience in the construction industry. Throughout her career, Siu has contributed to notable UK projects, including HS1, Stratford Olympic Park Bridges, Crossrail, and high-rise structures like One Nine Elms and 100 Bishopsgate.

Recognized as the 'Most Influential Woman in Construction 2023' by the National Federation of Builders, she is a passionate advocate for women in construction and actively mentors emerging professionals.


Find out more about the Women in Transport Intersectionality Programme www.womenintransport.com/intersectionality

Send in a voice message podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/womenintransport/message

Women in Transport is presented by Shireen Ali-Khan from Women in Transport.
The series is produced by Emily Crosby Media with editing assistance from Liam Heffernan.

Navigating Rail: Kim Kapur's Journey from Communications to Crossrail and HS2, Highlighting the Power of Connections and Mentorship27 Nov 202400:54:50

In this episode of Women in Transport, we’re speaking to Kim Kapur about her career from communications to Crossrail to HS2, and how mentors have helped her on her way.

Kim speaks about the challenges of joining rail from communications, how people and connections are at the heart of her leadership style, and her pride at the achievements she has accomplished.

Kim Kapur is the Stations Client Director at HS2 Ltd, the company responsible for developing the UK's high-speed rail network. In this role, she oversees the planning and delivery of station systems.

With a strong background in project management and infrastructure development, Kim has been instrumental in advancing HS2's station projects.

Beyond her professional achievements, Kim is a dedicated advocate for diversity and inclusion within the engineering and transportation sectors. She actively mentors emerging professionals, promoting equitable opportunities and fostering a culture of innovation and excellence. Her commitment to these values has established her as a respected leader and role model in the industry.


Find out more about the Women in Transport Intersectionality Programme www.womenintransport.com/intersectionality

Send in a voice message podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/womenintransport/message

Women in Transport is presented by Shireen Ali-Khan from Women in Transport.


The series is produced by Emily Crosby Media with editing assistance from Liam Heffernan.

The Fundamentals of Human Performance: Resilience in Leadership with Kai-Nneka Townsend and Sharon Pickering13 Nov 202400:52:15

In this episode of Women in Transport, we’re speaking to Kai-Nneka Townsend and Sharon Pickering about the fundamentals of human performance and resilience in leadership. 

Kai-Nneka shares her experience with workplace burnout and the importance of leaders building resilience to manage stress and support their teams. Sharon emphasizes the holistic approach to human performance, integrating physiological, cognitive, and emotional elements. They discuss the critical health and safety issues in transport, such as public interaction and emotional well-being. Both stress the importance of negotiation, self-reflection, and adaptability in leadership to foster a supportive work environment.


Kai-Nneka is a dedicated Leadership Resilience and Burnout Consultant whose primary mission is to empower leaders and their teams with the resilience and stress management strategies necessary to foster a sustainable and thriving work environment. She provides tailored workshops, one-on-one coaching, and evidence-based interventions that empower leaders to recognise and address the early signs of burnout. Her inclusive approach is rooted in evidence-based techniques designed to help leaders set boundaries, advocate for their well-being, and sustain their unique leadership style in industries where they are often underrepresented. By equipping her clients with the right tools, Kai-Nneka helps leaders stay resilient, confident, and aligned with their personal values, all while excelling in their careers.

Kai-Nneka is also a certified DiSC® Practitioner, using this powerful assessment tool to enhance organisational teamwork, communication, and productivity. Through her work, she inspires cultural and behavioural shifts that drive long-term, positive change in the workplace.


Sharon Pickering is an internationally recognised Human Factors expert with extensive experience across safety critical industries. Her multidisciplinary education, flying experience, and expertise in state-of-the-art technology integration uniquely places her to understand and solve Human Factors challenges. Her global career has spanned NASA Ames, aircraft manufacturers, and Warwick Medical School. She has personally observed extraordinary people skills in complex settings like air-to-air refueling and brain surgery, leading to the design and implementation of successful and sustainable improvement initiatives. 

Sharon is an accomplished author, a scientist, a human performance training creator, and a HealthTech / MedTech innovation developer and advisor. As the Founder and CEO of sp Human Elements LTD, optimising human performance is at the forefront of Sharon’s mission to prevent health-state decline and save lives. She appreciates first-hand the importance of innovation and continually strives to inspire and impact pioneering work whilst ensuring that the human remains as the core element through relatable and accessible Human Factors Integration and tools.


Find out more about the Women in Transport Intersectionality Programme www.womenintransport.com/intersectionality

Send in a voice message podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/womenintransport/message

Women in Transport is presented by Shireen Ali-Khan from Women in Transport.


The series is produced by Emily Crosby Media with editing assistance from Liam Heffernan.


Navigating Careers, Synchronicity, and Neurodiversity: Building Adaptive Workplaces with Dr Emma Langman-Maher30 Oct 202400:55:30

In this episode of Women in Transport, we’re speaking to Dr Emma Langman-Maher, Associate Director for Strategy Plus at AECOM. Emma talks about her career journey from a transport planner to engineering to HR, influenced by synchronicity and building relationships. She shares her approach to managing ADHD, autism and trauma, including EMDR therapy, and is candid about the strengths her experiences give her in the world of work. She emphasizes the importance of adaptive systems, flexible work environments, and understanding individual needs to bring out the best in people. 

Dr Emma Langman-Maher has a career path that she describes as "crazy-paving". The word others are most likely to use about her are 'resilient', 'inspiring' and (less kindly), 'intense'.  Originally a civil engineer, she became a transport planner before segueing through careers in industries as diverse as Oil & Gas and Retail. Emma is driven by a strong sense of justice and a belief (built upon two decades of fascination with the work of W Edwards Deming), that Joy in Work should be a human right. She has therefore spent much of her career striving to create environments and organsations that help people to be at their best; starting from her early career helping to develop London's Quality Bus Routes. Much of this internal drive for efficiency and justice comes from her childhood experiences of long periods in hospital and other adverse childhood experiences (ACEs), including the loss of one of her siblings. Although, last year, while being diagnosed for ADHD, Emma also learned that she is Autistic.


Emma is now happily employed as an associate director with AECOM - a multi-national infrastructure consultancy. Here she combines her big picture creativity (from her ADHD) with her love of bottom-up detail (linked to her Autism) to lead the Transformation Practice that forms part of their Strategy+ service line. After 20 years she is finally using her PhD in Systems Approaches in the Hydro-Electric sector, working with clients such as the Environment Agency and National Grid's Great Grid Partnership. Emma has won awards from the People and Culture Association for her achievements in transforming workplaces. And she is one of HR Magazine's Top Thinkers 2024. To quote Emma "my CV could never have been predicted, and my life has had plenty of challenges, but it makes sense when I look back from where I am now, and I am grateful for it". Emma continues to champion Customer focus in AECOM's Highways team, and will never give up her love of train sets. She lives in Cheshire and enjoys spending time with her  friends and family, including her husband, and 6 children and step-children.


Find out more about the Women in Transport Intersectionality Programme www.womenintransport.com/intersectionality

Send in a voice message podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/womenintransport/message

Women in Transport is presented by Shireen Ali-Khan from Women in Transport.


The series is produced by Emily Crosby Media with editing assistance from Liam Heffernan.

Challenging bias, championing women: Tesco's story15 Oct 202500:33:00

In this episode of the Women in Transport Podcast, Shireen Ali-Khan is joined by co-host Jo Field, as they welcome three guests from Tesco—Vitalija, Chris, and Emily. They discuss their career journeys, the importance of allyship and mentorship, and the challenges faced by women in the transport sector. The guests share personal experiences, ways Tesco promotes inclusivity, and thoughts on how the industry can progress in supporting women and creating equitable opportunities. They also touch on flexible working, the significance of role models, and actionable steps to foster a more inclusive environment.

Send in a voice message podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/womenintransport/message

Women in Transport is presented by Shireen Ali-Khan from Women in Transport.


The series is produced by Emily Crosby Media.

Women in Transport at 20: Connection, collaboration, change01 Oct 202500:31:21

In this special episode of the Women in Transport Podcast, we celebrate the 20th anniversary of Women in Transport. Recorded at the London Transport Museum during our AGM, Jo Field highlights the organisation's journey, key achievements, and future plans. She discusses events, programmes like Advance mentoring and the Lead leadership programme, the impact of our partnerships, regional hubs, safety initiatives, and the intersectionality programme. Jo also announces future goals, sponsorship needs, and a shift in leadership roles. 

Find out more about the Women in Transport Intersectionality Programme www.womenintransport.com/intersectionality

Send in a voice message podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/womenintransport/message

Women in Transport is presented by Shireen Ali-Khan from Women in Transport.


The series is produced by Emily Crosby Media.

Lead and Advance: Building Women’s Leadership, One Story at a Time11 Dec 202500:47:26

In this episode of the Women in Transport Podcast, we spotlight our impactful flagship programs 'Lead' and 'Advance.' Shireen Ali-Khan and guests Laura Tofts, Fi Hamilton, Nkiruka (Nky) Nzekwu, Angela Gainsford, Sonya Byers, and Iain Smith explore how these programs build confidence, leadership skills, and supportive networks. Amongst the guests, past participants and facilitators share personal stories of transformation and empowerment. The conversation also touches on the importance of allyship, representation, and sustaining impactful changes within the industry. Key highlights include the benefits of coaching, the significance of creating safe spaces, and the lasting ripple effects on both personal and professional levels.

Find out more about the Lead and Advance programmes - 

https://www.womenintransport.com/lead

https://www.womenintransport.com/mentoring-advance

Send in a voice message podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/womenintransport/message

Download the whitepaper here: https://www.womenintransport.com/intersectionality 

Women in Transport is presented by Shireen Ali-Khan from Women in Transport.


The series is produced by Emily Crosby Media.

Every Journey Should Be Safe: Why Women Still Aren’t27 Nov 202500:41:09

In this episode Shireen Ali-Khan and Jo Field discuss the pressing issue of women's safety within the transport sector. Featuring guests Jade Neville and Susan Leadbetter, the conversation explores the problems of normalisation of safety concerns and underreporting, with personal experiences. The episode highlights practical measures and policies that can enhance safety, including improved reporting systems and targeted design changes. The discussion also emphasises the importance of intersectionality and empathy in transport planning, calling for a collective effort to create safer, more inclusive transport systems.


Send in a voice message podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/womenintransport/message

Download the whitepaper here: https://www.womenintransport.com/intersectionality 

Women in Transport is presented by Shireen Ali-Khan from Women in Transport.


The series is produced by Emily Crosby Media.

The Motherhood Penalty — Breaking Barriers in Transport13 Nov 202500:34:47

In this episode of the Women in Transport Podcast, Shireen Ali-Khan hosts a discussion with Beci Piggott, Social Impact and Inclusion Manager from Kier Transportation and Joanna Hill, Northwest Regional Lead for Women in Transport, focusing on the motherhood penalty within the transport sector.

The conversation delves into the challenges working mothers face, the importance of representation, allyship, and leadership, and practical recommendations for supporting parents and caregivers. Topics include the impact of societal expectations, the need for flexible working arrangements, and the importance of a supportive workplace culture. The episode reflects on the findings from the Motherhood Penalty Whitepaper and emphasises collaboration, storytelling, and policy implementation to foster an inclusive environment for all employees.

Download the whitepaper here: ⁠https://www.womenintransport.com/intersectionality⁠ 

Send in a voice message podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/womenintransport/message


Women in Transport is presented by Shireen Ali-Khan from Women in Transport.

The series is produced by Emily Crosby Media.

20 Years of Women in Transport: Stories of Connection, Support and Impact30 Oct 202500:21:24

In this special episode of the Women in Transport Podcast, we commemorate the organisation's 20th anniversary by sharing voices and stories from our members. The episode includes professionals from different areas of the transport industry, who speak on the themes of connection, support, opportunity, and impact. They highlight the network's role in fostering inclusivity, professional development, and authentic representation. The episode is a tribute to the past 20 years of achievements and a look forward to continued progress and collaboration.


Send in a voice message podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/womenintransport/message


Women in Transport is presented by Shireen Ali-Khan from Women in Transport. The series is produced by Emily Crosby Media.

Navigating Generational Change: Building a Future- Ready Transport Workforce01 Jan 202600:45:10

This episode we dive into the dynamics and challenges of intergenerational workforces in the transport sector. With up to five generations working together side-by-side, the episode examines how different values and perspectives shape workplace culture. Guests Clare Murphy, head of HR at RHA, and Amber Murdock, a graduate transport planner at McCullough, share their experiences and insights on creating inclusive environments that facilitate knowledge transfer and collaboration. Key topics include the impact of life stages, the benefits of hybrid working, and the importance of mental health support. The discussion underscores the need for genuine human connection and continuous dialogue to make the transport sector more appealing and sustainable for future generations.


Send in a voice message podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/womenintransport/message

Download the whitepaper here: https://www.womenintransport.com/intersectionality


Women in Transport is presented by Shireen Ali-Khan from Women in Transport.

The series is produced by Emily Crosby Media.

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