ReCon - REinventive CONtribution

Bev Williams
  • 0.0 (0)
  • CAREERS
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

  ReCon, the podcast made to support women in their 30s to mid 40s in the Construction industry who are navigating significant challenges to maintain momentum on their career path.   ReCon short for Reinventive Contribution is the advanced stage of a woman’s career where women aged 46 & beyond often seek new opportunities for growth and may focus on contributing to their field, Brene Brown calls it …. The gift of Mid-life which I love!   As my gift I want use this pod to share and leverage accumulated expertise by Interviewing successful women within the construction industry in the ReCon stage of their career. They have been there & have Pragmatically Endured through their 30 & 40s & got to the other side. My guests share their lived experiences, challenges, surprises and some golden nuggets to support those women currently in the Pragmatic Endurance phase of their career (30 – mid 40s). They have been there & got to the other side. Although I hope these conversations resonate with anyone at any age because there is so much valuable advice and so many really good pieces of information and that I wish that I'd been given.   For more information on the 3 phases of woman's career please head to the resources section of my website www.breathecoaching.co.uk

  1. Episode 14 - Yoshimi Douglas-Street

    2 DAYS AGO

    Episode 14 - Yoshimi Douglas-Street

    In this episode, Bev interviews Yoshimi Douglas Street, a trailblazing woman in construction, golf, and advocacy. They discuss her career journey from painter to Operations Director, her passion for mentoring, and her efforts to increase diversity and inclusion in the industry. Yoshimi transitioned from being a successful painter and decorator to pursuing a management role, recognising the need for long-term career sustainability. Her background in the trades gives her a unique perspective. One of the key themes that emerged from our conversation is the vital role mentorship plays in the construction industry. Yoshimi emphasises the impact of having mentors early in one's career, "I never had a mentor, and I think if I would have had one earlier, maybe the path would have been slightly different." By mentoring graduates and apprentices, she aims to provide guidance and support to the next generation, helping them navigate their careers successfully. Yoshimi advocates for creating psychological safety in the workplace. She believes that leaders must ensure their teams feel safe to express themselves fully. "Ensuring safe spaces for my teams is crucially important," she says. This approach not only fosters open communication but also encourages individuals to bring their authentic selves to work, enhancing team dynamics and productivity. As we conclude our discussion, it's evident that Yoshimi is not just a leader in the construction industry, but also a passionate advocate for women and of course Golf! Her journey and insights serve as an inspiration for many aspiring professionals, emphasising the importance of representation and support in the workplace. Takeaways: ·      Consistent visibility as a leader builds trust and inspires others ·      Transitioning from trades to management can create well-rounded leaders who understand all facets of the industry. ·      Early mentorship can significantly influence career trajectories, providing guidance and support. ·    Creating a safe and inclusive workplace environment is essential for maximising team potential and job satisfaction. ·      Persistence in knocking on doors is key to success   Resources Fore Her Collective (formerly Ladies_Can_Golf the England Golf Award Winning 2026) is a vibrant women's corporate golf community designed to connect, empower and elevate women within the corporate world https://www.linkedin.com/company/foreher-collective/    Construction for women Anglia, launched in February 2020 to connect people across the construction industry in the East of England. https://womeninconstructionanglia.com For more information on the 3 phases of a woman's career please head to the resources section at www.breathecoaching.co.uk   Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Yoshimi 01:59 The Journey into Golf & Networking 04:41 Mentorship& Giving Back 06:47 Transitioning from Trade to Management 09:25 Leadership Mindset & Consistent Actions 11:55 Challenges in Career a& Personality Management 16:14 Embracing Identity in a Male-Dominated Industry 17:26 The Impact of Family on Women's Careers 20:57 Learning from Failures 24:07 Inspiring Future Generations 25:55 Hopes for the Future of Construction 28:29 Advice for the Next Generation

    31 min
  2. Episode 13 - Julia Barrett

    31 MAR

    Episode 13 - Julia Barrett

    In this episode Julia Barrett, Chief Sustainability and Compliance Officer at Willmott Dixon shares her unexpected career path from chemical engineering to board leadership in construction, leadership insights, and her vision for a sustainable, diverse industry by 2030.   A trailblazer in sustainable construction and diversity. This episode is a call to action for anyone daring to make a real impact in the industry. Julia’s story underscores that leadership isn’t a solo journey. Her impactful mentorship programs and commitment to fostering peer support reveal how collective effort accelerates change.She’s candid about boundaries—acknowledging the necessity of self-care, setting limits, and working flexibly. Her point? “Make it work for you, not the other way around.” Doing so isn’t just good for you—it’s essential for sustainable leadership. Her reflection on her biggest challenges? Managing the realisation that she often managed experts more knowledgeable than herself. Her breakthrough? Embracing that as a strength, not a weakness—trusting her team, asking questions, being persuadable, and staying curious.Julia’s leadership mantra? “You’re not indispensable. Recognise your worth, celebrate your wins, and keep pushing forward". The Bottom Line... Julia Barrett isn’t just transforming construction—she’s redefining what leadership looks like for women everywhere. Her story urges you to embrace authenticity, challenge assumptions, and lead with purpose. Because when you do, you ignite progress that lasts. Takeaways: ·       Authenticity and honesty are key to good leadership. ·       Leadership is about mindset and consistent actions, not titles. ·       Good leaders treat everyone with respect and learn from their team. ·       You don't need to be the expert to lead effectively. ·       Setting ambitious diversity targets drives industry change.   Resources & Links: Why Good Girls Don’t Get Ahead But Gutsy Girls Do by Kate White Supply Chain Sustainability School Aldersgate Group Chapters: 00:00 - Welcome and episode overview: Julia Barrett’s inspiring leadership story 02:24 - Julia’s approach to sustainable development and industry recognition 03:58 - How her early career shaped her leadership style 04:29 - Julia’s go-to playlist and the power of emotional uplift 08:39 - The importance of mindset and habits for authentic leadership 09:45 - Leading through energy, positivity, and integrity 12:29 - Setting boundaries to balance work and family 14:36 - Overcoming the challenge of managing experts who know more 20:25 - The empowering lesson: Nobody is indispensable 22:12 - Recognising the value of diverse opinions and storytelling backed by data 27:27 - Progress made in providing equality of facilities and opportunities 39:27 - The industry’s role in delivering sustainability and diversity goals by 2030

    32 min
  3. Episode 12 - Bidisha Sinha

    24 MAR

    Episode 12 - Bidisha Sinha

    In this episode of Recon, host Bev speaks with Bidisha Sinha, Associate Director at Zaha Hadid Architects, about her journey in the construction industry, emphasising the importance of resilience, visibility, and self-belief. They discuss the challenges faced by women in architecture, the necessity of effective communication and trust in team dynamics. Bidisha shares her experiences of overcoming stereotypes, the value of authenticity, and the lessons learned from failures. Bidisha highlights that resilience is crucial in architecture, where each project presents unique challenges. She emphasises the importance of clarity of vision and trust within a team. "If you want everyone to buy in and take ownership, it's really important that you know what the value of that project is and the value of your own input on it," she states. This approach fosters an environment where team members feel empowered to communicate openly, especially when challenges arise. With Bidisha's current projects spanning across Asia and Europe, managing different time zones and work weeks can be daunting. She candidly admits, "I'm not sure I'm doing such a good job of looking after myself always." However, she recognises the importance of prioritisation and delegation in leadership underscoring the significance of self-care in sustaining effective leadership. Takeaways: ·      Control in leadership is a positive attribute. ·      Clarity of vision and values is essential for leaders. ·      Delegation is key to maintaining self-care. ·      Earning respect is more effective than demanding it. ·      Authenticity is vital in professional interactions. ·      Planning for challenges is essential in construction. ·      Things will inevitably go wrong; preparation is vital. ·      Authenticity and kindness are important in professional settings. ·      Navigating stereotypes requires self-awareness and confidence. ·      Maintaining relevance in a team is essential for success. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Resilience and Self-Belief 04:31 The Rewards of Reinvention 07:43 Leadership Mindset and Actions 09:38 Managing International Projects and Self-Care 13:02 Overcoming Challenges in Construction 19:07 Lessons Learned from Mistakes 23:22 Navigating Tough Conversations in Design 24:13 The Importance of Communication in Leadership 27:42 Overcoming Gender Bias in the Workplace 31:09 Learning from Failures and Stereotypes 34:04 Authenticity and Self-Confidence in Career 38:31 Future of the Construction Industry 40:30 Empowering the Next Generation of Leaders

    44 min
  4. Episode 11 - Renee Preston

    17 MAR

    Episode 11 - Renee Preston

    In this episode of Recon, host Bev Williams interviews Renee Preston, CEO of Gallaway Construction, who shares her journey in the construction industry, her commitment to creating impactful change for women, and her insights on leadership, mentoring, and personal challenges. Renee discusses the importance of supporting women in construction, the need for cultural change within the industry, and her experiences with personal health challenges that shaped her perspective on work-life balance. She emphasises the significance of being a disruptor in the industry and the lessons learned from failures, while also highlighting her unexpected role in political leadership to advocate for change. Renee's passion for building impact and her hopes for the future of the construction industry are evident throughout the conversation. With over 15 industry awards to her name in 2025 alone, including the Woman of the Year at the Property Week Awards, Renee's journey is a testament to resilience, determination, and the transformative power of inclusivity in the workplace. "I want to walk on a building site and know that I feel that pride and know that I've done that," she shares. This commitment to fostering a supportive culture for women has led her to spearhead The National Site Standard and various initiatives aimed at increasing female participation in construction. One of Renee's key contributions is the Construction for Women initiative. This nationwide program is designed to open up construction careers for women. Follow them on LinkedIn… https://www.linkedin.com/company/construction-for-women/ Renee's journey is an inspiring example of how one individual can make a profound impact on their industry. Through her initiatives and commitment to inclusivity, she is not only changing the narrative for women in construction but also paving the way for a more equitable future. As we look ahead, key takeaways from Renee's story include the need for supportive networks, the necessity of setting boundaries for personal well-being and the importance of mentorship. As Renee points out, mentoring can significantly improve retention rates; mentees are five times more likely to remain in their roles. Takeaways: ·      Supporting women in the industry is crucial for retention. ·      Mentoring programs significantly improve retention rates. ·      Setting boundaries is essential for work-life balance. ·      Embracing disruption can lead to positive change. ·      Trusting the wrong people can lead to challenges. ·      Political awareness is important for industry advocacy. ·      Building impact is about changing lives, not just numbers. ·      Self-belief and support from peers are vital for success.   National Site Standard launched https://www.constructionnews.co.uk/government/national-site-standard-for-women-launched-15-01-2026/ Chapters:   00:00 Introduction 03:54 Renee's Journey and Impact in Construction 10:06 Leadership & Mentoring in the Industry 12:11 Personal Challenges & Boundaries 20:32 Embracing Disruption & Change 24:08 Lessons Learned from Failures 26:45 Unexpected Political Leadership 33:12 Building Impact & Future Aspirations 40:39 Advice to Younger Self

    37 min
  5. Episode 10 - Danielle Rowley

    10 MAR

    Episode 10 - Danielle Rowley

    In this episode of Recon, host Bev Williams engages in a candid conversation with Danielle Rowley, a director in cost management at AECOM. Danielle shares her unique journey into the construction industry, which began at the age of 26 after a career in publishing. With nearly two decades of experience, she discusses the challenges and rewards of her role, emphasising the importance of resilience and reinvention in both personal and professional spheres. As a single mother and caregiver, Danielle reflects on the balance between significant personal responsibilities and professional ambition, highlighting her passion for mentoring women in construction and fostering honest conversations about career transitions. Throughout the discussion, Danielle emphasises the value of empowering others, particularly younger professionals, by sharing her experiences and insights. She speaks about the importance of being comfortable at the table, the shift from process-driven to people-driven leadership, and the significance of building trust within teams. The conversation also touches on the challenges of entering the construction field later in life, the need for visibility in the industry, and the importance of mentorship in supporting women and men alike during pivotal life changes such as maternity and paternity leave. Danielle's journey is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of creating supportive environments for future generations in the workplace. Takeaways: ·      Helping younger people is the most rewarding aspect of my career. ·      Confidence follows action, not the other way around. ·      Reputation and professionalism compounds over time. ·      You can't please all the people all the time. ·      It's about treating people how you want to be treated. ·      We need to explain the roles in construction to younger generations. ·      Visibility and accessibility are key in mentoring. ·      Don't settle; always push yourself to grow. ·      Sometimes you need to jump in and take action. ·      Nurturing your team is more important than just being in charge. Danielle  is a Mentor with The Circle Partnership Mentoring Circle https://thecirclepartnership.com/mentoring-circle/ Chapters: ·      00:00 Introduction to Recon and Guest Danielle Rowley ·      02:20 Danielle's Journey into Construction ·      03:33 Rewards of Mentoring and Empowering Others ·      06:51 Leadership: Actions, Boundaries, and Empathy ·      09:27 Challenges of Entering Construction Later in Life ·      15:11 Lessons Learned: Reputation and Professionalism ·      18:48 Facing Disappointments and Learning from Them ·      20:39 Unexpected Experiences in Career ·      24:19 Holding the Ladder Down for Other Women

    26 min
  6. Episode 9 - Bonus IWD2026 with Bev Williams

    5 MAR ·  BONUS

    Episode 9 - Bonus IWD2026 with Bev Williams

    In this bonus episode for International Women's Day, Bev Williams is interviewed by her long-time friend Roslyn Robertson. They discuss the theme of giving to gain, the challenges women face in the construction industry, and the importance of mentorship and leadership. Bev shares her personal journey, including her experiences with self-belief, motherhood, the lesson of the Fact or Thought Filter and the pressures of visibility in her career. The conversation highlights the significance of vulnerability, the impact of burnout, and the lessons learned through failure. They conclude with hopes for a more inclusive future in the construction industry and the importance of supporting one another. Key Insights: 1. Mentoring and Coaching: One of the most rewarding aspects of Bev's career is mentoring others. She finds fulfillment in helping individuals navigate their challenges and achieve their goals. 2. Authenticity: In this reinventive stage, it's essential to allow yourself to be authentic. Bev believes that shedding the need to please others leads to greater clarity and confidence. 3. Neuroscience of Change: Bev discusses a fascinating concept from neuroscience about how as we age, our brains undergo changes that allow us to prioritise what truly matters. This process can lead to a significant shift in how we perceive ourselves and our roles in society. 4. Clarity Over Complexity: The clarity that comes from embracing your true self is liberating. It allows you to focus on what truly matters rather than conforming to external pressures. Takeaways: ·      Giving is not a subtraction, but a multiplication of impact. ·      Leadership is about authenticity and resilience. ·      Fact vs. Thought is a powerful tool for clarity. ·      Vulnerability does not equate to victimhood. ·      Burnout is a significant issue for women in leadership. ·      Failure can lead to personal growth and understanding. ·      Visibility in the workplace is essential for success. For more information on the 3 phases of a woman's career please head to the resources section at www.breathecoaching.co.uk Breathe by Becky Hemsley https://breathecoaching.co.uk/poem-breathe/ Ellen Scherr article: https://themidst.substack.com/p/aging-out-of-fcks Chapters: 00:00 Introduction 00:04 Learning from Failure and Vulnerability 35:12 The Pressure of Hyper Visibility 38:04 Supporting Women in Construction 41:50 Hopes for the Future of Construction

    48 min
  7. Episode 8 - Helen Berresford

    3 MAR

    Episode 8 - Helen Berresford

    In this episode of Recon, host Bev Williams engages in a rich conversation with Helen Berresford a prominent figure in the construction industry. Helen shares her journey through various stages of her career, emphasising the importance of collaboration and the human-centric approach in design. She reflects on her experiences at significant events like Live Aid, which shaped her perspective on the power of music in inspiring change. Helen discusses her current role at Sheppard Robson, where she leads the IDSR team, and highlights the rewarding aspects of mentoring young professionals, particularly women in the industry. The conversation also touches on the evolving landscape of construction, the significance of well-being in design, and the need for authenticity in leadership. Conclusion: Helen Berresford's journey in the construction industry is a testament to the power of collaboration, continuous learning, and the joy of creating spaces that serve communities. As she embraces this reinventive stage of her career, her insights remind us that success is not just about individual achievements but about lifting each other up and celebrating collective victories. Takeaways: ·      Setting boundaries is crucial for maintaining personal and professional balance. ·      From the golden threads  - Weave you own tapestr ! ·      Helen learned to empower her team rather than take on their burdens. ·      Overcoming stereotypes is essential for personal growth and success. ·      Designing healthy environments is vital for well-being. ·      Helen encourages younger professionals to embrace the roller coaster of their careers. ·      Leadership is about creating the right environment for growth. ·      Nostalgic experiences can inspire current and future endeavours. As promised... Bowie & Jagger ‘Dancing in the street’ clip https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=opRRax4ph3E   For more information on the 3 phases of a woman's career please head to the resources section at www.breathecoaching.co.uk Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Recon and Helen Berresford 01:46 Helen's Theme Tune and Live Aid Memories 05:54 The Rewards of the Reinventive Stage 09:11 Leadership: Actions and Mindset 13:55 Challenges in Career and Overcoming Them 16:45 Transforming Client Engagement in Design 16:46 Lessons in Leadership and Persistence 21:00 The Importance of Authenticity in Leadership 31:08 Hopes for the Future of the Construction Industry 35:34 Trusting Yourself on the Journey

    37 min
  8. Episode 7 - Lucy Wiltshire

    24 FEB

    Episode 7 - Lucy Wiltshire

    In this episode of Recon, host Bev Williams engages in a vibrant conversation with Lucy Wiltshire, a Senior Pre-Construction Manager at Keir Construction Oxford. With over 30 years of experience in the construction industry, Lucy shares her journey through various roles, emphasising her passion for championing vocational routes and supporting emerging talent. The discussion highlights the importance of confidence, positivity, and the need for women to recognise their superpowers in a traditionally predominantly male field. Lucy's insights on leadership, networking, and the challenges of balancing work and family life resonate deeply, offering valuable lessons for listeners navigating their own careers. Lucy reflects on her experiences, including the guilt often felt by working mothers and the importance of building a supportive network. She emphasises that leadership is not just a title but a mindset, advocating for women to take charge of their careers and support one another. Lucy shares insights on building a network, overcoming redundancy, and championing emerging talent. The conversation culminates in a powerful message about believing in oneself and the significance of diversity in the workplace, leaving listeners inspired to reach for their goals and embrace their unique paths in the construction industry. Conclusion: Lucy Wiltshire's insights serve as a beacon for women in construction and beyond. Her experiences highlight the importance of self-confidence, effective leadership, work-life balance, and the transformative power of networking. As she aptly puts it, "It’s about being yourself and finding fulfilment both at work and at home."    In a world where challenges abound, Lucy's story reminds us that with the right mindset and support, we can all reach our goals and help others along the way. Takeaways:   Every woman has a superpower; we just sometimes don't realise it.Building your network of like-minded people is crucial for success.Everything happens for a reason; you pick up skills along the way.Believe in yourself and know your worth.Championing emerging talent and apprenticeship.It's about opening doors for the next generation of women in construction.You never know what's around the corner; stay positive.It's hard to fit into molds; embrace your uniqueness. Chapters:   00:00 Introduction to Recon and Guest Background 02:52 The Rewards of Reinvention in Career 05:05 Leadership and Consistent Actions 07:33 Balancing Career and Family Guilt 10:09 The Importance of Networking 12:45 Overcoming Challenges and Learning from Failure 15:06 The Power of Positivity 17:23 Unexpected Career Opportunities 20:08 Supporting Emerging Talent and Women in Construction 22:50 Future Hopes for the Construction Industry 25:08 Final Thoughts and Advice for Young Professionals

    28 min
See All (15)

About

  ReCon, the podcast made to support women in their 30s to mid 40s in the Construction industry who are navigating significant challenges to maintain momentum on their career path.   ReCon short for Reinventive Contribution is the advanced stage of a woman’s career where women aged 46 & beyond often seek new opportunities for growth and may focus on contributing to their field, Brene Brown calls it …. The gift of Mid-life which I love!   As my gift I want use this pod to share and leverage accumulated expertise by Interviewing successful women within the construction industry in the ReCon stage of their career. They have been there & have Pragmatically Endured through their 30 & 40s & got to the other side. My guests share their lived experiences, challenges, surprises and some golden nuggets to support those women currently in the Pragmatic Endurance phase of their career (30 – mid 40s). They have been there & got to the other side. Although I hope these conversations resonate with anyone at any age because there is so much valuable advice and so many really good pieces of information and that I wish that I'd been given.   For more information on the 3 phases of woman's career please head to the resources section of my website www.breathecoaching.co.uk

Information

You Might Also Like