What does it really take to move from self-doubt to self-respect? And how do you build a life and career rooted in purpose, power, and inner peace?
In this inspiring episode, Nicola O’Donoghue sits with Neelu Agarwal, Head of Belonging, Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at the Prudential Regulation Authority.
Neelu opens up about her journey from growing up with feelings of inferiority to becoming a powerful leader who champions authenticity, vulnerability, and growth in herself and others. You’ll hear:
- Why Neelu’s core values are the foundation for a fulfilling life across work, family, and self.
- How she shifted from seeking external validation to building self-trust and self-respect.
- The impact of postnatal depression and how it became a catalyst for rediscovering her ambition and identity.
- The power of tiny steps, personal accountability, and redefining leadership through compassion and imperfection.
Whether you're navigating your own identity, leadership journey, or just looking to feel less alone in your struggles, this episode offers a grounded and empowering path forward.
💡 Sponsored by Intogreat – a personalised well-being platform designed for ambitious professionals who want to reduce stress, reclaim energy, and deepen their relationships without adding another thing to their to-do list.
👉 Start today at www.intogreat.net/consumer
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What if your biggest fear wasn’t failure, but regret?
In this episode, Nicola O’Donoghue sits down with Caroline Brewin, the CEO of Brain Powered Coaching, who left a successful 18-year career in banking to follow a deeper purpose: transforming over 1 million lives through neuroscience and confidence coaching.
Caroline opens up about:
Her leap from corporate life to entrepreneurship.
How to listen to the inner voice that says, “There’s more for you.”
Her SHARE Model for authentic confidence (without coming across as arrogant)
The 5 A’s that anyone can use to build confidence.
Why action is the key to growth and how to acknowledge your progress.
This isn’t about “fake it till you make it.” It’s about being unapologetically yourself, trusting your instincts, and building confidence from the inside out.
Whether you’re navigating imposter syndrome, craving more purpose, or just tired of holding yourself back, this episode is your sign to start now.
You can also purchase Caroline's book, Confident, for more tips on how to build confidence in your life:
✨ Great Conversations is brought to you by Intogreat – the personalised well-being platform helping high-achieving individuals manage stress, build resilience, and reclaim joy—one confident step at a time.
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Trigger Warning: This episode contains a deeply emotional and explicit conversation around early pregnancy loss. Please listen with care.
What does it take to lead with courage, challenge societal norms, and still stay grounded in compassion? In this raw and powerful episode, Sam Payne, Co-Founder of Pink Elephants, opens up about what it means to be a fearless leader, grief advocate, and change-maker in women’s health.
Sam shares her evolution from embracing change and taking bold action to building a charity that is shifting how society talks about and supports early pregnancy loss. With honesty and insight, she explains the grief no one talks about, how we can better support loved ones through early pregnancy loss, and why Western culture is so ill-equipped to handle loss.
This is a conversation about grief, compassion, the power of community, and a reminder that you're not alone. And is for anyone who has experienced early pregnancy loss, loves someone who has, or wants to better understand the emotional realities of miscarriage.
Pink Elephants: https://www.pinkelephants.org.au/
For miscarriage support in the UK:
Tommy's: https://www.tommys.org/
Misccariage Association: https://www.miscarriageassociation.org.uk/
Cradle: https://cradlecharity.org/
Great Conversations is sponsored by Intogreat — the personalised well-being platform helping ambitious women reduce stress, build resilience, and thrive on their own terms.
Take your next step to deeper balance and self-connection: www.intogreat.net
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How do you build strong, loving relationships without losing yourself?
In this insightful conversation, Nicola O’Donoghue sits down with PJ Livett, a Sex and Relationship Educator who works with teens to lay the foundation for healthy relationships early on. But her lessons are just as relevant for adults, especially high-achieving, emotionally intelligent women navigating modern love.
PJ breaks down the true pillars of a healthy relationship: open communication, mutual respect, and self-worth. She shares how to argue effectively (spoiler: it’s all about active listening and explaining, not blaming), and why building self-esteem is the key to walking away from unhealthy dynamics.
You’ll also learn:
- How do you get clear on what you value in love and connection?
- Why understanding love languages changes everything.
- What does emotional intimacy look like when you're thriving on your terms?
Whether you’re single, dating, or in a relationship, this conversation is packed with powerful tools to help you feel more seen, respected, and fulfilled.
💡 Sponsored by Intogreat – a personalised well-being platform designed for ambitious women who want to reduce stress, reclaim energy, and deepen their relationships without adding another thing to their to-do list.
👉 Start today at www.intogreat.net
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Becoming a mother changes everything, but for Lorna Lewis, the Founder of Funked Up Fitness, it also brought unexpected struggles with postpartum depression, identity loss, and the pressure to be the "perfect" mum.
In this candid conversation, Lorna shares how fear, anxiety, and comparison shaped her early motherhood experience until she decided to take control of her happiness.
Through self-awareness, coaching, and a commitment to personal responsibility, Lorna learned to quiet the negative stories holding her back. She opens up about the pivotal shift that came when she stopped seeking external validation and started trusting herself.
From setting boundaries and saying “no” to prioritising her well-being, she explains how she reclaimed her confidence, compartmentalised her mental load, and ultimately found joy in both motherhood and her own identity.
If you've ever felt overwhelmed by expectations, whether as a parent or simply as a person, this episode is a must-listen.
Follow Intogreat for more insights: www.intogreat.net
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Follow Lorna at Funked Up Fitness:
📍 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/funkedupfitness/📍 Website: www.funkedup.co.uk
In this inspiring episode of Great Conversations, Nicola O'Donoghue sits down with Peta Stewart to explore the powerful role of energy management in building a fulfilling life and thriving business.
Peta opens up about the sacrifices she's made to become a successful entrepreneur, including her conscious decision not to have children — a choice rooted in her deep understanding of where her energy could be best invested.
Drawing from her journey as a foster child, a national cyclist, and a business leader, Peta shares how mastering her energy transformed her leadership style and unlocked true success. She reveals her powerful three-part model for success — balancing meaning, monetary value, and fulfilment — and highlights the importance of defining self-worth to achieve balance in all areas of life.
From nurturing her team to practicing presence with clients, Peta’s insights will inspire you to rethink success and make intentional choices about where your energy goes.
At Intogreat, we believe well-being starts with empowerment. Get the tools to strengthen your mind, challenge norms, and live on your terms. Start today: www.intogreat.net
Follow Intogreat for more insights:
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📍 LinkedIn: / 89635344
Follow Peta for more insights:
📍 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/petastewartconveyancing/
📍 YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC7RV6JL0oSUppAF8We-T9_g
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📍 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/peta-stewart-36538326/
Why is women’s safety still seen as their responsibility?
In this powerful episode, Nicola sits down with Amy Watson, founder of HASSL, to discuss the overlooked power of rest, resilience, and societal change.
Amy is tackling one of society’s biggest blind spots: how misogyny is baked into our culture. Through HASSL, she’s not giving women “safety tools”—she’s working to change mindsets. From catcalling, and drink spiking to stalking, she exposes how everyday behaviours contribute to a culture of harassment and why safety should be a societal obligation, not a women’s burden.
In this conversation, we explore:
🔹 Why rest isn’t a luxury; it’s a game-changer for success and connection.
🔹 The mental toll of “harmless” harassment and how we unconsciously tolerate it.
🔹 How to start tough but necessary conversations to shift outdated beliefs and create real change.
🔹 Why safety should be a shared societal obligation, not just a “women’s issue.”
If you've ever felt frustrated by how women are expected to just “deal with” harassment, this episode will give you new ways to push for real cultural change.
If you or someone you know is in a domestically abusive relationship, this episode of Great Conversations with Sam Butler provides a wealth of inspiration and advice: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RjZjQlxpmDg&t=12s
Listen now and be part of the movement for change.
🔹 Support the work of HASSL: https://hassl.uk
👉 At Intogreat, we believe well-being starts with empowerment. Get the tools to strengthen your mind, challenge norms, and live on your terms. Start today: www.intogreat.net
Follow Intogreat for more insights:
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What if everything you’ve been told about happiness is wrong?
For years, we’ve been sold the idea that more success, more money, and more achievements will bring us joy. But what if the real key to happiness is something much simpler?
In this thought-provoking conversation, Nicola sits down with John Young, CEO & Co-Founder of Cognomie Coaching, to challenge the conventional wisdom around success and fulfilment.
John shares how losing his business became his biggest breakthrough—helping him step away from the endless chase of more and towards a life built on presence, purpose, and deep connection.
If you've ever felt like you're "doing it all" yet still searching for something more, this episode will help you reframe happiness in a way that truly serves you.
Listen now and start redefining what happiness means for you.
🔹 Feeling stretched thin, even when life looks great on the outside? Intogreat offers personalised tools to help high-achievers like you reclaim balance, energy, and fulfilment without adding more to your plate. Start your journey today: www.intogreat.net
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This week, Nicola is joined by the extraordinary Fiona Arrigo for a conversation about humanity’s collective awakening. As the Founder of the Arrigo Programme, she combines spirituality with grounded therapeutic wisdom, making her insights both profound and accessible. Fiona explains how feelings of unworthiness and disconnection are driving much of today’s unrest and why the path forward is to reconnect with ourselves and make heart-based, conscious choices. Fiona opens up about her three near-death experiences, where she broke every bone in her body and had to relearn how to walk. These moments of surrender and transformation shaped her belief in living a life devoted to something greater than ourselves. What stands out is Fiona's ability to bridge the gap between the spiritual and the practical. Her words aren’t just inspiring; they feel like a call to action to meet ourselves with compassion, embrace surrender and live more consciously, with love and intention at the centre of our choices. This conversation will leave you reflecting on what it means to awaken, reconnect, and live purposefully. Follow Fiona at: https://thearrigoprogramme.com/ Follow intogreat: https://www.intogreat.net/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ YouTube: / channelucil0hwgiyfxrzni5nyox0jq Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?... LinkedIn: / 89635344
In this season 5 opener of Great Conversations, Nicola is joined by social change maker Mick Cronin for a powerful discussion on resilience, authenticity, and living a life of purpose. Growing up in a small town outside Dublin, Mick shares how his challenging upbringing and decision to leave Ireland shaped his path toward working with addiction, youth detention, and marginalised communities in Australia. We explore the wisdom he’s gained from decades of transformative work: the importance of being real, supporting rather than fixing others, and finding perspective and gratitude in the face of adversity. Mick opens up about the toll of burnout and his steps to live more fully, reprioritising family and not sweating the small stuff as he embarks on a new business to create job opportunities for marginalised communities. This episode is a heartfelt reminder that our past doesn’t define us—it equips us with the tools to make an impact. Follow intogreat: https://www.intogreat.net/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ YouTube: / channelucil0hwgiyfxrzni5nyox0jq Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?... LinkedIn: / 89635344
In this empowering episode, I’m joined by Alison Blackler, CEO of Two Minds and a transformational coach, for what feels like a life coaching session packed with wisdom and practical advice. Alison shares her strategies for avoiding burnout, overcoming overwhelm and anxiety, and building a life of confidence and balance. We dive into setting healthy boundaries, saying no without guilt, and breaking free from the trap of perfectionism and comparison—key culprits behind modern mental health struggles. Alison’s upbeat and positive approach is a reminder to put yourself on your to-do list, take personal responsibility, and lead your own life with purpose. With the holidays approaching, this episode is perfectly timed to help you navigate the season with clarity and grace. Don’t miss Alison’s actionable tips on committing to the moment so you can live a life without regrets. Follow intogreat: https://www.intogreat.net/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ YouTube: / channelucil0hwgiyfxrzni5nyox0jq Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?... LinkedIn: / 89635344 Follow Alison: www.2-minds.co.uk Instagram: @alison2minds Facebook: 2mindsuk Twitter: @AlisonBlackler Linkedin: Alison Blackler Youtube: @alison2minds Podcast: Mental Wealth Facebook Group: ‘In And On The Mind’ ‘A Path Travelled’ Book Series
In this episode, I sit down with Vanesse Machill, Head of Partnerships at Mido Academy, to explore the transformative power of curiosity and a growth mindset in building a life aligned with your authenticity and passions. Vanesse opens up about a deeply personal chapter of her life—how workplace bullying shook her to her core and forced her to question everything she thought she knew: her career trajectory, her relationships, and her own self-worth. Hitting rock bottom became the catalyst for a profound journey inward. Through self-reflection, curiosity, and the courage to take action, she began rebuilding a life that reflected her true self. Vanesse highlights the importance of seeking diverse perspectives, asking the right questions, and surrounding yourself with uplifting and empowering people—vital tools that guided her out of fear and self-doubt. This conversation is a testament to the resilience it takes to grow through life’s challenges and the rewards of living boldly, authentically, and with intention. If you’re navigating your own turning point or seeking inspiration to align your life with your authentic self, this episode is a must-listen. Follow intogreat: https://www.intogreat.net/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ YouTube: / channelucil0hwgiyfxrzni5nyox0jq Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?... LinkedIn: / 89635344
To mark the year anniversary of Intogreat, we turn the tables on Nicola O'Donoghue, Founder and CEO of Intogreat and host of Great Conversations, as she becomes the guest! Interviewed by Denise McGrouther, Nicola opens up about the journey that led her to Intogreat, exploring how challenges—including past abusive relationships—have shaped her perspective and commitment to personal growth. We dive into the role of self-awareness and therapy in living authentically, and Denise throws in some light-hearted questions to uncover Nicola’s guilty pleasures and what makes her smile. This quick-fire, personal episode is a chance to connect with the voice behind the podcast. For those curious to hear even more of Nicola’s story, check out two previous episodes that dive deeper into her transformative journey. Coming Home to Yourself: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wEVthvyx234&t=269s Overcoming Domestic Abuse: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RjZjQlxpmDg&t=2881s Follow intogreat: https://www.intogreat.net/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ YouTube: / channelucil0hwgiyfxrzni5nyox0jq Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?... LinkedIn: / 89635344
This week, my guest is Belinda Jones, a teacher and head of PSHE. Belinda opens up about the ongoing challenge of balancing work and life—especially when you’re deeply fulfilled by what you do. She shares her journey of transitioning careers, being a single mum, and the complexities of living out multiple identities in different stages of life.
We delve into the importance of authenticity and how discovering your true self can help you align with what brings you real joy. By staying connected to her passion for learning, she found a way to live authentically, embracing both her growth and imperfections.
For anyone struggling with career changes, imposter syndrome, or the evolving search for balance and self-discovery, Belinda's story offers a reminder that true fulfilment comes from embracing your authentic self and aligning your life with what genuinely inspires and excites you.
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This week my guest is Julie Ann Gautier, who made the bold move from a corporate career in Calgary to becoming a commercial lobster fisherwoman and tourism operator on Prince Edward Island. Julie Ann opens up about the life-changing decision to leave behind the pressures and expectations of city life and the corporate world, choosing instead to reconnect with her values and authenticity and take over her family’s fishing business. We talk about the internal shift that came with stepping away from conventional expectations and how she found real fulfillment by following her passion. Julie Ann’s story is a reminder that happiness often comes from letting go of what we think we should do and embracing what truly brings us joy. If you've ever questioned the path you're on, Julie Ann's story offers a reminder that true happiness lies in choosing authenticity over expectation. Follow intogreat: https://www.intogreat.net/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ YouTube: / channelucil0hwgiyfxrzni5nyox0jq Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?... LinkedIn: / 89635344 Follow Julie Ann Gauthier: LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/julieanngauthier/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/julieann.gauthier/
CAUTION: In this episode, Vaishali talks openly about losing a child, and how she dealt with this grief. I would encourage anyone who may find this topic triggering, to give this episode a miss. In this deeply moving episode, I sit down with Vaishali Joshi, the CEO and Founder of Anvaya, to uncover the transformative power of mindfulness. Vaishali shares her journey, beginning with how the practice of mindfulness was first introduced to her during a challenging divorce and later became her anchor when she faced the unimaginable loss of her child. We explore the essence of mindfulness: what it is, how anyone can start a mindfulness practice, and the benefits it offers. Vaishali opens up vulnerably about her experiences with grief, detailing how she navigated her darkest moments through mindfulness. She emphasizes the importance of being present in the here and now, consciously leaving behind the pain of the past while cherishing its beautiful aspects. Whether you're new to mindfulness or looking for deeper understanding, Vaishali’s story is a testament to the power of mindful living, offering both inspiration and practical advice. Follow intogreat: https://www.intogreat.net/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ YouTube: / channelucil0hwgiyfxrzni5nyox0jq Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?... LinkedIn: / 89635344 Follow Anvaya: Website: https://www.anvayamovement.com LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/vaishalijoshi-anvaya Instagram: vaishalijoshianvaya Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/@VaishaliJoshiVideos Book a free chat: book.meetanvaya.com
This week my guest is the incredibly inspiring, serial entrepreneur and founder of the Young Entrepreneurs Club, Katie Bowater. At just 18 years old, Katie faced a life-altering challenge. As a professional water polo player for Great Britain, her intense training led to stress fractures that ultimately ended her sports career. Despite such a significant setback, Katie refused to let the end of her water polo career be the end of her success story. With her willingness to fearlessly take on a challenge, Katie pivoted to entrepreneurship—a dream she had always intended to pursue later in life. With incredible focus and discipline, she has started 3 successful businesses in the beauty and property industries. At 22, Katie started the Young Entrepreneurs Club to share her experiences and insights with other aspiring young entrepreneurs. Katie's journey is a testament to the power of resilience, determination, and the ability to transform adversity into opportunity. With her tenacity, kindness, and unwavering dedication, Katie’s story will inspire you to pursue your dreams without fear and with relentless determination. Follow intogreat: https://www.intogreat.net/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ YouTube: / channelucil0hwgiyfxrzni5nyox0jq Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?... LinkedIn: / 89635344 Follow Young Entrepreneurs Club & Katie Bowater: Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/katie-bowater-05a26919b Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/698353912480467/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/youngentrepreneursclubltd Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@youngentrepreneursclub Link to the next Young Entrepreneurs Club event in Liverpool:
https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/young-entrepreneurs-club-liverpool-registration-1009140776227?utm-campaign=social&utm-content=attendeeshare&utm-medium=discovery&utm-term=listing&utm-source=cp&aff=ebdsshcopyurl
This week's guest is Denise McGrouther, VP of e-commerce at an international logistics company.
Denise shares her remarkable journey of moving from the UK to Australia over 42 years ago, and how her hard work, unwavering positivity, and adaptability helped her succeed in the logistics industry.
Denise opens up about the challenges of being a working mum, including the tough decision to step away from a high-profile international role to focus on her family. She reflects on the compromises she made, her unwavering belief in herself, and how she eventually re-entered the workforce to rebuild her career with even greater success.
With an optimistic outlook, Denise offers invaluable advice on not sweating the small stuff and emphasizes the importance of surrounding yourself with people who elevate you. She also highlights the need for self-care, exercise, and laughter as essential components of a fulfilling life.
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In this week's episode, we sit down with Ashwini Anburajan to explore her remarkable journey in redefining what it means to be an entrepreneur. Ashwini's path is characterized by breaking down barriers, embracing diversity, and championing innovation in the entrepreneurial landscape. She shares her experiences of navigating the complex world of entrepreneurship, highlighting the importance of inclusivity and diverse perspectives, and the need to challenge traditional funding models to create a more equitable environment where every aspiring entrepreneur can thrive. Throughout our conversation, Ashwini opens up about the obstacles she faced and how she overcame them with resilience and determination. Join us for an inspiring episode that charts Ashwini’s entrepreneurial journey and offers a compelling vision for a more inclusive and dynamic entrepreneurial world. Follow intogreat: https://www.intogreat.net/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channelUCil0HWGiYfXrZNi5NyoX0JQ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=6155401854478 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/89635344
In this week's episode, we explore the transformative power of love and patience with Saeed Olayiwola. Saeed takes us on his journey of redefining masculinity, identifying his core values, and ultimately finding peace through his authenticity. Saeed passionately addresses the current definition of masculinity. Emphasizing the need to highlight examples of kind, compassionate, and gentle masculinity, rather than focusing solely on toxic masculinity. He shares about the men's groups he has established, which serve as safe and supportive spaces for men to explore and embody their best versions of masculinity. I love how Saeed frames the concepts of love and patience, arguing that they are often perceived as soft qualities, but they actually possess immense strength and are critical to personal peace and fulfillment. Join us for an inspiring conversation that challenges traditional notions of masculinity and advocates for more love and patience in the world. Follow intogreat: https://www.intogreat.net/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channelUCil0HWGiYfXrZNi5NyoX0JQ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=6155401854478 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/89635344 Connect with Saeed: Instagram @saeedolayiwola