Season 2 Collaborator - INSPO Social Networking Platform.
In this episode of the Take a Chance on You podcast, host Alexandra Forsyth speaks with Ryan Toppin, a business coach and mentor from Australia. Ryan shares his journey from sports to business coaching, emphasising the importance of collaboration over competition, the need for clear vision and goals, and the significance of feedback in personal and professional growth.
Ryan introduces the concept of the Four P's of business success—“People, Processes, Placement, and Partnerships”—and discusses the “Founders Live” initiative, which connects startups with investors.
The conversation highlights the importance of selling oneself and the value of personal branding in today's business landscape.
Takeaways
Ryan emphasises the importance of meaningful connections in business.
The Four P's of business success are People, Processes, Placement, and Partnerships.
Collaboration with competitors can lead to greater success.
Understanding consumer expectations is crucial for business growth.
Feedback should be viewed as constructive, not personal.
Choosing your pain is essential for long-term growth.
Having a clear vision helps navigate challenges.
Lessons from sports can be applied to business leadership.
Founders Live provides a platform for startups to connect and grow.
Selling yourself is a vital part of business success.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Ryan Toppin and His Journey
05:04 The Four P's of Business Success
08:06 Rethinking Competition: From Scarcity to Collaboration
10:54 Adapting to Consumer Expectations in a Changing Market
14:03 The Importance of Feedback and Choosing Your Pain
20:04 Lessons from Sports: Team Dynamics and Communication
32:14 The Bigger Picture: Community and Open-Mindedness
34:44 The Power of Collaboration and Community
36:13 Founders Live: Connecting Entrepreneurs
42:28 Market Research Through Pitching
45:27 The Importance of Networking and Community Support
47:58 Visualisation and Mental Preparation
58:08 Don't Be Afraid to Sell Yourself
In this episode of the Take a Chance on You podcast, host Alexandra Forsyth interviews Sabrina Berko, head of content management at the DTX Technology Conference. They discuss the evolution of the conference, focusing on business transformation, the importance of inclusivity in events, and the challenges in cyber security. The conversation also touches on the significance of adapting education for neurodiverse individuals and the mental health implications within the tech industry. Sabrina shares her passion for the tech space and the importance of creating supportive environments for professionals.
Takeaways
Sabrina Berko is passionate about creating inclusive spaces at events.
DTX has shifted focus from digital transformation to business transformation.
The importance of addressing neurodiversity in tech environments.
Education and training must adapt to different learning styles.
Cybersecurity professionals face significant mental health challenges.
Networking at events is crucial for personal and professional growth.
AI innovations are reshaping the tech landscape.
Inclusivity in events enhances the overall experience for attendees.
The tech industry needs to prioritise mental health support.
Sabrina encourages young people to explore careers in tech.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to DTX Technology Conference
02:39 The Evolution of DTX: From Digital to Business Transformation
05:12 Creating Inclusive Spaces at Events
08:53 The Future of DTX: Trends in AI and Cybersecurity
12:23 Understanding Neurodiversity in Tech
15:44 The Role of Education in the Age of AI
18:44 Cybersecurity: Challenges and Community Support
22:43 Mental Health in Cybersecurity
Summary
In this episode of the Take a Chance on You podcast, host Alexandra Forsyth speaks with Richard Elsey, founder of the Thoughtful Learning Company, about the importance of customer service and leadership. Richard shares his journey in the hospitality industry, the impact of COVID-19 on customer expectations, and the significance of personal branding and storytelling in service. He introduces his Five Steps to Five Stars program, emphasising the need for self-awareness and effective feedback in leadership. The conversation concludes with strategies for enhancing customer service and fostering a positive team environment.
Takeaways
Richard Elsey is a leading voice in premium customer service.
The act of serving others is rewarding and fulfilling.
Customer expectations have increased post-COVID-19.
Building customer loyalty is essential for long-term success.
Storytelling enhances the customer experience.
The Five Steps to Five Stars program helps improve service.
Personal branding is increasingly important in today's workforce.
Self-awareness is crucial for effective leadership.
Actions speak louder than words in leadership.
People are the greatest asset in any business.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Customer Service Excellence
04:58 The Evolution of Customer Service Post-COVID
10:05 The Importance of Personal Branding in Service
14:59 Five Steps to Five Stars Program Overview
19:50 Role Models and Leadership in Customer Service
25:00 Navigating Leadership Challenges
29:46 Strategies for Enhancing Customer Service
34:52 Empowering Teams Through Feedback and Recognition
ADHD: A Journey of Discovery
In this episode of the Take a Chance on You podcast, host Alexandra Forsyth engages in a thought-provoking discussion with Emily Hall-Strutt and Tree Hall about neurodiversity, inclusion, and representation in the tech industry. They share their personal experiences with ADHD and autism, emphasising the impact a late diagnosis has had in their careers and personal lives; alongside the importance of creating inclusive workplaces that recognise and celebrate individual differences.
The conversation also addresses the challenges of late diagnosis, misconceptions surrounding neurodiversity, and the need for a shift in how society views and supports neurodivergent individuals including Gen Z and Gen Alpha both at school and in the workplace. Ultimately, they advocate for empowering the next generation and fostering environments where everyone can thrive.
Takeaways
Inclusion should have a goal which is belonging.
It's important to recognise that everyone's brain works differently.
Representation in tech is crucial for creating effective technology.
Late diagnoses of ADHD and autism are common and often overlooked.
Misconceptions about ADHD and autism can hinder understanding and support.
Creating inclusive workplaces benefits everyone, not just those who are neurodivergent.
Empowering the next generation is essential for future progress.
Advocacy for neurodivergent individuals is a moral imperative for leaders.
Understanding individual experiences is key to effective inclusion.
The journey of diagnosis is often long and complex, but necessary.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Neurodiversity and Inclusion
03:00 Personal Experiences with Neurodiversity
06:02 The Importance of Representation in Tech
08:48 Challenges of Late Diagnosis
11:52 The Misconceptions Around ADHD and Autism
15:11 Navigating the Diagnosis Journey
18:04 Empowering the Next Generation
20:47 Creating Inclusive Workplaces
24:13 Conclusion and Future Perspectives
Season 2 Collaborator: INSPO Social Networking Platform.
In this episode of the Take a Chance on You podcast, host Alexandra Forsyth speaks with Milica Milićević founder of Wings of Legacy, about her journey in creating a network for women focused on mentorship across various industries. They discuss the importance of mentorship, the shift to global summits, the challenges faced by early career professionals, and the significance of setting boundaries to manage stress. Milica shares her insights on the portfolio career approach, the power of self-reflection, and the different leadership styles that can impact team dynamics. The conversation emphasises the need for empowerment, trust, and the role of affirmations in personal growth, along with practical strategies for networking and saying no.
The upcoming summit in 2026 will focus on women in cyber security, risk, and AI ethics and governance. It aims to support early career professionals through mentorship and cheerleading, providing a platform for self-confidence and motivation.
By providing a platform for mentorship and support, the event seeks to bolster self-confidence and motivation among participants. Wings of Legacy highlight the importance of having a supportive network, helping navigate the complexities of the current hiring market.
Takeaways
Chapters
00:00Introduction to Wings of Legacy
02:56The Shift to Global Summits
05:48The Importance of Mentorship
08:39Navigating Early Career Challenges
11:28The Portfolio Career Approach
14:41Setting Boundaries and Managing Stress
17:27The Power of Self-Reflection
20:21Leadership Styles and Team Dynamics
23:09Empowering Employees and Building Trust
26:12The Role of Affirmations in Personal Growth
29:04Strategies for Networking and Saying No
Season 2 collaborator - INSPO social networking platform.
In this episode of the Take a Chance on You podcast, host Alexandra Forsyth interviews Julia Lebedev, a leader in the automotive industry with over 20 years of experience. Julia shares her unique journey to leadership, emphasising the importance of empathy, connection, and openness in fostering effective teams. She discusses the challenges she faced as a transgender person in the workplace and how she overcame them to build trust and respect among her colleagues. Julia advocates for a leadership style that prioritises people and encourages personal growth, highlighting the significance of mentoring and building relationships within teams.
Takeaways
Chapters
00:00Introduction to Julia Lebedev and Her Journey
04:23The Evolution of Leadership and Personal Growth
11:34Building Trust and Open Leadership
19:14Connecting with Younger Generations in the Workplace
27:28Julia's Role and Responsibilities in Vehicle Development
In this episode of the Take a Chance on You podcast, host Alexandra Forsyth interviews Nasser Arif, Cyber Security Manager at the NHS. They discuss the evolving landscape of cyber security in healthcare, emphasising the importance of human elements, innovation through AI, and the need for tailored training approaches. Nasser shares insights on his career transition from IT to cyber security, the challenges of burnout, and the significance of neurodiversity in the workplace.
The conversation highlights the future of cybersecurity, the role of technology, and the necessity of understanding audience needs in training and awareness initiatives.
Disclaimer: All opinions expressed by the guest and host are their own and do not reflect the employer in any way.
Takeaways
The human element is crucial in cyber security.
Cyber security professionals should engage with non-technical staff.
Burnout is prevalent in the cyber security field.
AI can enhance cyber security practices and patient care.
Tailored training is essential for effective cybersecurity awareness.
Neurodiversity should be embraced in the cyber security workforce.
Cyber security behaviours should extend beyond the workplace.
Understanding your audience is key to effective communication.
The future of cyber security is uncertain but requires adaptability.
Cyber security is increasingly in the public eye, necessitating proactive measures.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Cyber security in Healthcare
02:41 The Importance of Human Element in Cyber security
05:41 Career Path and Transition to Cyber security
08:40 The Role of AI and Technology in Healthcare
12:04 Neurodiversity and Cyber security Awareness
Season 2 collaborator - INSPO social networking platform.
This week it's all about male vulnerability with Louis Watkins!
In this episode of the Take a Chance on You podcast, host Alexandra Forsyth speaks with Louis Watkins, founder of Clear for Men, about the importance of mental health awareness for men. Louis shares his personal journey, the impact of COVID-19 on his mental health, and the mission behind his skincare brand, which aims to break the stigma surrounding men's mental health. The conversation delves into the significance of vulnerability, emotional expression, and self-love, as well as practical strategies for managing anxiety and loneliness. Louis emphasises the importance of community support and encourages listeners to embrace their unique journeys toward mental wellness.
Louis shares his experiences as a solo founder, discussing the challenges and triumphs of entrepreneurship. He emphasises the importance of having a purpose, building systems for business success, and the significance of personal branding. Networking and community support are highlighted as essential elements for growth, along with the need to celebrate milestones and learn from failures. Louis also discusses the value of documenting the entrepreneurial journey and the power of connection and collaboration among founders. He concludes with recommendations for inspirational films and books that can motivate and guide entrepreneurs.
Takeaways
Louis Watkins emphasises the importance of taking time for oneself.
Mental health stigma for men needs to be addressed.
COVID-19 significantly impacted many people's mental health.
Vulnerability is a strength, not a weakness.
Expressing emotions can lead to relief and healing.
Self-love is crucial for mental well-being.
Community support plays a vital role in mental health.
It's important to normalise conversations about mental health.
Anxiety can manifest physically and needs to be addressed.
Everyone's journey is unique; comparison can hinder progress.
Documenting the journey adds authenticity to your brand.
Collaboration among founders fosters a supportive community.
Inspirational content can motivate and guide entrepreneurs.
Enjoying the journey is as important as the destination.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Mental Health Awareness for Men
01:30 Louis Watkins' Journey and the Birth of Clear for Men
06:40 The Impact of COVID-19 on Mental Health
12:10 The Importance of Vulnerability and Emotional Expression
19:41 Strategies for Managing Anxiety and Loneliness
29:19 The Role of Self-Love and Positive Self-Talk
38:28 The Importance of Community and Support
42:19 Conclusion: Embracing the Journey of Mental Health
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Season 2 collaborator - INSPO social networking platform.
In this episode of the Take a Chance on You podcast, host Alexandra Forsyth interviews Mark Pagdin, founder and CEO of Onion Security. Mark shares his extensive experience in financial services and cyber security, discussing the importance of compliance, knowledge sharing, and networking in the industry.
Mark dives into how he enhanced his career through networking, emotional intelligence, connecting with people and his love for stand-up comedy; exploring life lessons, the importance of humour and how this transformed his leadership and business approach.
Mark emphasises the value of mentorship, work-life balance, and personal growth, as well as the impact of comedy on professional skills. The conversation highlights the significance of authenticity, emotional intelligence, and kindness in business relationships, and concludes with valuable resources for professional development.
Takeaways
Mark Pagdin has over 20 years of experience in financial services and cyber security.
Knowledge sharing is crucial for improving security practices across industries.• Networking is essential for personal and professional growth.
Mentorship can significantly impact career development.
Work-life balance is important for overall well-being and productivity.
Engaging in activities like comedy can enhance interpersonal skills.
Authenticity and emotional intelligence are key to effective communication.
Building relationships in business should focus on kindness and empathy.
The small to medium-sized business community is supportive and collaborative.
Continuous professional development is vital for career advancement.
Chapters
(00:00:00 - 00:05:00) Introduction to Mark Pagdin
(00:05:00 - 00:15:00) Mark's Career Journey
(00:15:00 - 00:25:00) The Role of Networking
(00:25:00 - 00:35:00) Embracing Stand-Up Comedy
(00:35:00 - 00:45:00) Empathy and Authenticity
(00:45:00 - 00:55:00) Continuous Learning and Growth
Resources
Federation of Small Businesses The MOM Test – Rob Fitzpatrick
Presence – Amy Cuddy
Darknet Diaries podcast
Krebs on Security website
The Rest of Our Lives – Ben Markovitz
Seven Principles of Highly Effective People – Stephen R. Covey
Season 2 collaborator - INSPO social networking platform for thought leaders.
In this episode of the Take a Chance on You podcast, host Alexandra Forsyth interviews Rebecca Taylor, a manager in Threat Intelligence at Sophos company. They discuss the complexities of the dark web, the evolution of ransomware groups, and the importance of empathy and collaboration in leadership.
Rebecca shares her journey from a personal assistant to a leader in cyber security, emphasising the need for personal resilience and the value of mentorship. The conversation highlights the significance of making cyber security relatable and accessible to everyone, as well as the importance of creating a supportive work environment.
We delve into the dynamic world of cyber security, exploring how professionals build resilience and foster personal growth amidst constant challenges. Rebecca shares her journey, becoming a thought leader, highlighting the importance of mentorship, continuous learning, and emotional intelligence.
Rebecca discusses how sharing insights and working together across organisations can enhance security measures and drive innovation. Discover the power of collective intelligence in identifying emerging threats and learn how building a supportive community can lead to more effective threat mitigation strategies.
Takeaways
- Rebecca Taylor emphasises the human element of the dark web.
- Ransomware groups are increasingly competitive and offer various services.
- Leadership should be approached with empathy and understanding.
- Collaboration is essential in cybersecurity and can enhance team dynamics. Personal resilience is crucial to avoid burnout in the cybersecurity field. It's important to make cybersecurity relatable to everyday people.
- Mentorship plays a vital role in career development. Career growth requires boldness and initiative. Creating a supportive work environment fosters collaboration. Taking time for self-care is essential for long-term success in cybersecurity.
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Threat Intelligence and the Dark Web
04:46 Rebecca's Career Journey and Mentorship
09:45 Leadership and Empathy in Cybersecurity
16:39 Understanding Threat Intelligence
22:33 Collaboration and Team Dynamics in Cybersecurity
32:22 Personal Resilience and Career Growth
In this episode of "Take a Chance on You," we dive into the inspiring vision behind INSPO, a groundbreaking social networking platform designed to empower thought leaders. Join host Alexandra Forsyth and INSPO founder Draego Zubiri as they explore how INSPO is redefining leadership by providing a dedicated space for professionals to share their journeys, insights, and expertise.
Discover how INSPO is fostering a community of leaders who are passionate about making an impact and leading with empathy. Tune in to learn more about this innovative platform and how it can elevate your thought leadership journey.
Key Highlights:
- Introduction to INSPO and its vision for leadership.
- The importance of thought leadership in today's professional landscape. How INSPO is redefining social networking for professionals. INSPO role in fostering a community of empathetic leaders.
Call to Action:
Tune in to explore how INSPO is changing the game for thought leaders and learn how you can be part of this innovative community. Link in first comment.
Episode Chapters:
Introduction to Season Two (0:00 - 1:30)
Alexandra Forsyth introduces the new season and collaboration with INSPO
Meet Draego Zubiri (1:31 - 3:00)
Introduction of Draego Zubiri, founder of INSPO, and his background.
What is INSPO? (3:01 - 5:00)
Draego explains the concept and mission of INSPO.
The Importance of Thought Leadership (5:01 - 7:00)
Discussion on the role of thought leadership in professional growth.
Inspo's Unique Offering (7:01 - 9:00)
How INSPO differentiates itself from other social media platforms.
Building a Community (9:01 - 11:00)
The growth of INSPO's community and its impact.
Conclusion and Call to Action (11:01 - End)
Final thoughts and invitation to join INSPO
Season 2 Overview:
Real stories told by real people, aspiring and on their way, focusing on leadership.
Take A Chance On You host Alexandra Forsyth noticed a gap when listening to her favourite podcast shows; there was limited space to connect, deciding to focus on hidden talent in season 1 and now leaders in season 2.
This podcast thrives on honest conversations that build people up, help them to think creatively and reflect on their journey so far. Storytelling is here to stay, with guests talking about business strategies through to hard-hitting stories about burnout, anxiety and so much more.
#Inspo #ThoughtLeadership #Leadership #Empowerment
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SEASON 2 trailer is here, and will focus on aspiring leaders and leaders on their way!
Mark your calendars - September we will be returning in full swing.
Same as season 1 - weekly episodes will drop every Monday.
"Take a Chance on You," hosted by Alexandra Forsyth puts the heart back into conversation; a pioneering space whereby guests from ALL industries and backgrounds come to the table to share their path of discovery.
Alexandra believes in the transformative power of self-reflection, providing guests space to take a moment to look inward leading to personal empowerment and growth.
Through each inspiring story and insightful discussion, YOU can learn the same strategies and practice how self-reflection can help you recognise your achievements by embracing the journey, and unlocking your true potential.
What can you expect?
Unlock your potential through the power of self-reflection, as shared by guests.
Learn how to lead with empathy and collaborate in effective leadership.
Understand teamwork and how to foster environments where innovation thrives and teams excel.
Celebrate the small wins and embrace each life stage!
Recognise and appreciate the small victories along the way whilst you work towards your destination.
Cross-industry knowledge can help you broaden your business strategy.
Episodes will shine a spotlight on diverse career journeys and the bold pivots that have defined them.
Dive into the world of aspiring leaders and the journey of leadership development. Explore the essential skills and mindsets that define effective leaders and hear from individuals who have successfully navigated their paths to leadership.
Whether you're just starting your leadership journey or looking to refine your skills, this episode offers valuable guidance and inspiration.
It is goodbye for now
The time has come for me to hang up my hat on Season 1 of the Take A Chance On You podcast!
In total, 21 guests joined me to share their stories and paths of discovery, how success can be achieved at any stage of life, not just at the end, but in the beginning.
The way this podcast has truly transformed my way of thinking and those around me will never be underestimated.
From an idea to naming the podcast and turning it into a show for the world to hear.
The FEEDBACK given by so many of you already has been fantastic, and to all the guests I want to say a huge thank you.
Similar to one of my earlier episodes, I am going to give a quick roundup of each guests in this cohort so you can go and listen to your desired episode.
A big thank you to Barra, Bloomsbury Institute and Dixie for always being around and helping me get this podcast off the ground.
As I mentioned before, season 2 is underway, and I will be interviewing aspiring leaders and leaders on their way, could this be you??
Get in touch to feature and have a great summer.
See you soon,
Alexandra x
Welcome to Take A Chance On You hosted by Alexandra Forsyth, cyber security expert, advisor, coach and public speaker.
Navigating cyber security and the essential role of a CISO today.
In today's digital landscape, the Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) plays a pivotal role in safeguarding an organisation's most valuable assets. Join Alexandra and special guest Edward Millington (joining us from the CARIBBEAN!!) as they sit down to discuss leadership, mentorship, cyber security frameworks, the multifaceted responsibilities of a CISO, and the complex world of cyber security.
Explore the dynamic landscape of leadership as we dive into the evolution and challenges faced by today's leaders. In this episode, we uncover how leadership styles have transformed in response to technological advancements, cultural shifts, and global challenges.
Whether you're a seasoned leader or aspiring to step into a leadership role, this episode offers valuable insights into the ever-evolving world of leadership.
Special guest Edward, is a Principal Security Consultant, the Founder and Managing Director of CariSec Global Inc., a company at the forefront of Next-Generation Managed Security Service Providers, delivering Risk-Integrated Cyber security and ICT-managed strategic services across various sectors: financial, government, health, manufacturing, private, retail, and energy and utilities.
Edward’s leadership is a cornerstone of his success. With a wealth of experience spanning close to three decades in the fields of information systems security, information and communications technology, and telecommunications, he has successfully guided numerous organisations to achieve their strategic goals and objectives. His exceptional approach to strategic planning, design, and solutions direction, leveraging his unparalleled expertise and innovation in varying specialised areas like governance, risk and compliance, instills confidence in his ability to lead, guide and advise.
Edward’s has been featured across several security magazines and has spoken at multiple global and regional conferences.
Edwards achievements include:
Welcome to Take A Chance On You hosted by Alexandra Forsyth, cyber security expert, advisor, coach and public speaker.
Join host Alexandra as she sits down with Bina, the visionary founder of Jivan Room, a luxury hair salon in London.
With 17 years of experience, Bina shares her inspiring journey from traditional hairdressing, studying an NVQ after her GCSE's at school, to building a bespoke six-figure business. Discover her strategies for creating a unique client experience, the importance of understanding your target audience, and the power of perseverance and innovation in the beauty industry.
Bina specialises in focusing on emotional connection. Make sure you tune in for insights on branding, self-care, and the art of pivoting in business.
Bina's client-base is renowned for including top leaders in London, curating a bespoke space that offers an air of escapism and free-flowing conversation.
Bina delves into the art of personalisation in luxury styling, sharing how she crafts bespoke experiences for each client. From selecting personalised scents and music to offering one-on-one consultations, Bina reveals how attention to detail and understanding client needs have been pivotal in building her successful brand. Tune in to explore the transformative power of personalised service in the beauty industry.
Bina shares her insights on effective strategies for business growth and client retention, emphasising the importance of continuous improvement, understanding your target audience, and creating a unique client experience. Discover how Bina's focus on existing clientele and personalised service has driven her salon's success, and learn valuable tips for building a loyal customer base in any industry.
Bina Patel - LinkedIn
Jivan Room - Website
Welcome to Take A Chance On You hosted by Alexandra Forsyth, cyber security expert, advisor, coach and public speaker.
In a city as connected as London, it’s possible to be surrounded by people and still feel disconnected. For Nimi Singh, founder of The Table App, this experience became the spark for something quietly radical: helping people feel more connected, one table at a time.
In this episode of Take A Chance on You, host Alexandra Forsyth sits down with Nimi to explore how social dining can combat loneliness. They discuss: The healing power of gathering around a table:
- How presence and intentionality can build authentic community
- Why loneliness isn’t just about being alone, it's also about feeling unseen
- The art of designing spaces where strangers become something more
Listen as Nimi shares her journey from experiencing surface-level interactions to being an early-stage Founder building a platform that brings people together with intention.
Whether you’re seeking new friendships, meaningful conversation, or simply to be more social, this episode invites you to explore how we might gather differently, and more intentionally. At The Table App, connection isn’t left to chance. The most meaningful conversations happen when thoughtfully chosen people gather around a table to share a meal together. Reach out to learn more.
Connect with Nimi: Linkedin
Sign-up: The Table App
Nikesh Bhadlia and Sophie Darlington: Round Two Back Again and Ready to Share Strategies For Building a Creative Portfolio
Welcome to Take A Chance On You hosted by Alexandra Forsyth, cyber security expert, advisor, coach and public speaker.
Recap
Nikesh and Sophie spoke about the following key points in their previous episode.
Nikesh and Sophie are two apprentices working in London with Music Maestro, a creative marketing and production company hosting a portfolio of record labels for content creation, radio and video content, visualising and marketing assets.
Nikesh and Sophie have embedded themselves in the creative industry, with Nikesh sharing his passions for creating digital designs and photography, which led him to build a portfolio through his own projects from his A-Level Graphic Design course, later using this to apply for apprenticeships. Meanwhile, Sophie began working with premiere Adobe suite and general Media studies during school, before going onto study full-time Media at college through to university completing her degree in Film Production over three years.
Today’s episode
How to manage expectations when creating a portfolio that matches experience and skills, whilst matching the overall theme in the industry which is to be authentic and truly represent your passions through graphic design, video, content, media and more.
For Nikesh, his portfolio shows self-reflection and personal development. A range of different pieces. 3D work with blender, graphic, logo design and photography which helped him to put it all together and emphasise his trajectory. Nikesh also had to explain and discuss key points, showing progression throughout his apprenticeship and the breadth and depth in quality of work.
For Sophie, she has been working on putting together pieces both personally and professionally, showcasing her creative side using Adobe Suite. Sophie’s love for travelling, expression, graphic design, and eye-catching content shine through. Little did Sophie know at the time, but it was her portfolio that made her stand-out during the interview process for her current role working with Nikesh.
Both Nikesh and Sophie make it clear for anyone listening that a CV may not cut it in the creative industry, and a portfolio can be the deciding factor for employers. This type of work on display can be consistently updated overtime, showing clear signs of growth and upskilling.
Welcome to Take A Chance On You hosted by Alexandra Forsyth, cyber security expert, advisor, coach and public speaker.
Today's topic and theme is ’Taking back control and leaning into community’.
Wolf from the stars in Latin, is the name of Sophie's energy coaching practice ‘Lupo Astralis’ focusing on helping people through self-discovery. Based on energetic blueprint.
Prior to coaching, Sophie worked across the start-up and investment banking corporate space, including data analytics and sales.
Sophie discusses being intentional and finding a mentor. Normalising life and how the world is shifting, meaning it is acceptable to move around and change roles.
Human Design combines astrology, Kabbalah, Myers-Briggs, I Ching, quantum physics, and the chakra system to generate an “energetic blueprint” called a BodyGraph. Strategy focuses on how you use your Energy and interact with outside stimuli, while Authority is about how your body tells you if a decision is the right one for you.
‘What do I actually want’? Sophie discusses the importance of taking time away from the day-to-day activities and roadmapping your life. Although this feels scary, when you do start going off and doing your own thing, it can be very empowering and allow you to discover yourself.
The hardest conversations are the one’s we have with ourselves. What do we value and want from life?
Community can offer a good sounding board, and help you to interact with others on a more purposeful level.
Alecia Cotterell: Student education, job application tips and emerging technology shaping higher education.
Welcome to Take A Chance On You hosted by Alexandra Forsyth, cyber security expert, advisor, coach and public speaker.
Today's topic and theme is 'Back to Basics, Creating Success in The Job Market'.
Alecia is head of careers at Teesside University London campus, providing a unique offering, including 20% of every module students undertake across all subject areas focusing on employability skills, so the students can hit the ground running straight away once enrolled.
Alecia would like students to develop strong skills to allow them to have fruitful careers, underpinned by a heavy international population at the university.
Alecia discusses challenges including the overuse of technology such as AI to enhance the application process. The conversation then turns to, how do you stand out in an oversaturated market, especially when it comes to CV and cover letter?
Strategies involve students tailoring their responses to each individual job application, arguing it is better to apply for less roles, and provide quality answers to each recruiter / company. Making sure experience and skills match up.
Getting students to feel motivated, passionate and curious to apply for job roles is also crucial to Alecia’s mission, alongside helping develop transferable skills.
An example can be volunteering at a local charity who have a lot of data, and for a few months, the student analyses this data, searches for trends, makes predictions and helps the charity implement changes.
The student in turn, builds on their strategic skills which in cyber security and technology is very relevant.
There is however a lack of feedback from businesses, requiring a level of accountability from all parties involved. Alecia recommends emailing, or making a call to the company, speak with the hiring manager and reach out to your connections and network utilising careers services at your local university. Resources, schemes and contacts can be tapped into.
Teesside offers funded internships, paying businesses on behalf of taking on students, providing salaries and opportunity to gain hands-on experience in the workplace.
AI can automate certain tasks, letting people do the jobs however possibly in the next few years, working at a higher expectancy if entry level roles are automated may raise standards. Students and early careers can decide to be at the forefront of change, gaining an understanding now and the skills needed for progression.
Feel the fear and do it anyway!
Akanksha Singh: Digital Marketing Strategies and Opportunities For Business Growth
Welcome to Take A Chance On You hosted by Alexandra Forsyth, cyber security expert, advisor, coach and public speaker.
Today's topic and theme is ‘digital marketing and strategies for businesses’.
Akanksha is pursuing many passions in her life, from helping small to medium size businesses with their digital marketing and social media marketing strategies, alongside hosting her own podcast ‘The Storyteller Lens’, working on a secret project, and completing an MBA.
It is safe to say Akanksha is BUSY, however she joined Take A Chance On You this week to break down myths in building a strong brand.
Myths:
Solution - Optimise your brand by gaining feedback from your audience on product preferences and try different things out, in terms of email and people marketing. It is a slow moving process.
Solution - Social media is free for your brand to use, however when building your business, a mixture of paid and organic content is needed.
Solution - It can take time to see progress with ads, and will require some investment from even small brands for return on investment (ROI). You need to keep track and monitor outcome / metrics and adjust strategy accordingly.
Solution - Magazines, and printed news are still relevant in today’s hyper digital world. Putting an ad in print form can attract an untapped market in-person, interested in your content and product.
Solution - Utilising employees and behind-the-scenes content can really bring a brand to life, build trust and credibility amongst the target audience. It shouldn’t always be a ‘faceless’ brand. People are searching for connection and community professionally and personally.
Solution - If one brand sells coffee and another sells coffee pods, synergy can be formed, a win-win situation between brands capitalising on each other’s communities and revenue generation streams.
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