We.Are.Powerful.

James Russell & Alex Sellers
  • 0.0 (0)
  • MANAGEMENT

Inspiring stories from people who have dared to affect change. Through candid conversations with change-makers, we are celebrating real experiences and providing practical insights that spark action, inspire change and build cultures where individuals and teams thrive. We are powerful when we choose to act. Visit the We.Are.Powerful website for more support and resources.

Episodes

  1. 12/12/2025

    Prioritising What Matters: Laura Thom Explores How esure’s Leaders Built Trust and Focus

    In this episode, James Russell and Alex are joined by Laura Thom, an experienced leader in Change and Transformation, to discuss how esure navigated a period of unprecedented challenge and change. Together, they reflect on the lessons learned from leading a major transformation programme during a time marked by the COVID-19 pandemic, the Ukraine war, and an energy crisis. Key Topics Transformation Under Pressure: Laura shares her experiences leading esure through a comprehensive transformation, highlighting the unique pressures of managing change in a mid-sized organisation while facing significant external disruptions.Shifting Culture and Leadership: The conversation explores how esure’s leadership team evolved, moving from a traditional, hierarchical structure to a flatter, more open environment where authentic voices and open debate were encouraged.The Art of Prioritisation: The team discusses the critical importance of focusing on what truly matters, making tough decisions about priorities, and ensuring clarity for everyone involved, especially when resources and time are limited.Building Trust and Authenticity: Laura and James reflect on how trust among leaders grew through adversity, and why being able to bring your authentic self to work is vital for team success and wellbeing.Lessons for Leaders: Laura offers candid advice on what she would do differently, including the need to avoid overcommitting and to be more deliberate about scaling teams. She also shares her perspective on the value of learning, feedback, and finding the right environment to thrive.Memorable Quotes “You’re flying a plane through the air and you’re trying to change the engine, repaint the branding, and refit the cabin—all at once.”“If the team is winning, then I feel like I am winning. That’s how I’m wired.”“You have to be comfortable being you, because if you’re spending all your energy adapting to fit in, that’s energy you’re not using to reach your potential.”Connect with the Guests Laura Thom: Find Laura on LinkedIn for more insights on transformation and leadership.James Russell & Alex: For more content and to get involved, visit wearepowerful.org.

    36 min

  2. 29/11/2025

    From Breakdown to Breakthrough: Steve Biggs' Story of Growth and Resilience

    In this inspiring episode of the We Are Powerful Podcast, hosts James Russell and Alex Sellers are joined by Steve Biggs, Head of People Operations at the Motor Insurers’ Bureau (MIB). Steve shares his deeply personal journey through anxiety, imposter syndrome, and mental health challenges, and how these experiences shaped his approach to authentic leadership and supporting others through change. Key topics include: Overcoming imposter syndrome and self-doubtThe importance of mental health awareness in the workplaceSeeking help and the power of vulnerabilityMindfulness, resilience, and building new habitsCreating psychologically safe workplacesAuthentic leadership and emotional intelligenceLetting go of perfectionism and embracing self-acceptanceThe role of employers in supporting employee wellbeingListen now for practical insights and heartfelt advice on leading yourself and others through change. Connect with Steve Biggs on LinkedIn for further conversation and support. Links: Empowering Teams and Cultures Together | We.Are.PowerfulMental Health workshops from LovingLifeJamie Smart and managing 'contaminated thoughts' About Brené | Brené Brown

    43 min
  3. Meet James & Alex!

    28/11/2025

    Meet James & Alex!

    Welcome to the kickoff episode of the We.Are.Powerful Podcast! Hosts James Russell (organisational change consultant and coach at Lead To Change) and Alex Sellers (founder of Blue Heron Training) introduce themselves and the mission behind the show: celebrating people and teams who make changes in themselves to transform results for others in their organisations and communities. In this candid conversation, James and Alex share their personal journeys—covering topics such as overcoming adversity, addiction recovery, risk-taking, and the pursuit of authenticity. They discuss the importance of being present, embracing vulnerability, and finding meaning and joy in everyday life. The episode sets the stage for future interviews with inspiring guests who have made significant changes in their lives and work. Key topics include: Authentic leadership and personal growthOvercoming addiction and mental health challengesThe power of vulnerability and storytellingEmbracing discomfort and taking risksFinding meaning, purpose, and joyBuilding positive workplace culturesThe journey of self-acceptance and being “okay”The impact of connection and communityUseful links: Gabor Mate - Young Again episodeViktor Frankl - Man's Search for MeaningIf you are struggling and need to talk to someone - The SamaritansEmpowering Teams and Cultures Together | We.Are.Powerful

    31 min
  • 3 Episodes

About

Inspiring stories from people who have dared to affect change. Through candid conversations with change-makers, we are celebrating real experiences and providing practical insights that spark action, inspire change and build cultures where individuals and teams thrive. We are powerful when we choose to act. Visit the We.Are.Powerful website for more support and resources.

Information

  • Creator
    James Russell & Alex Sellers
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    3
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © We.Are.Powerful.org
  • Show Website
    We.Are.Powerful.
  • Provider