ReCon - REinventive CONtribution

Bev Williams
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  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 19 - Katrina Kostic Samen

    1 DAY AGO

    Episode 19 - Katrina Kostic Samen

    In this episode of Recon, host Bev Williams speaks with Katrina Kostic-Samen, a prominent figure in the commercial real estate industry. They discuss Katrina's career journey, her views on leadership versus management, the challenges she has faced, and the lessons learned along the way. Katrina emphasises the importance of mentorship, the unique challenges women face in leadership roles, and the realities of entrepreneurship. The conversation highlights the significance of resilience, adaptability, and the drive to succeed in a competitive industry.   Katrina shares her experiences with workplace bullying, the unexpected longevity of her career, and the resilience she developed through various crises. She emphasises the importance of empowering women in the construction industry and discusses her hopes for innovation and sustainability in the field.   Additionally, she explores the concept of rethinking work structures, including the potential benefits of a four-day work week, and offers valuable advice for young professionals navigating their careers. In discussing leadership, Katrina draws a distinction between being a leader and being a manager. According to her, leadership is an inherent quality that involves building consensus and guiding others, while management often focuses on task execution. She believes that true leaders emerge during crises, demonstrating their ability to navigate challenges effectively. Katrina shares valuable lessons from her extensive career, emphasising the importance of personal integrity and being proactive. She advises against discussing sensitive topics in public spaces, like elevators, and stresses the need to read everything before signing it, as your signature is your bond. In conclusion, Katrina’s journey is a testament to the power of reinvention in one’s career. By embracing change, understanding the nuances of leadership, and maintaining a focus on personal integrity, professionals can navigate the complexities of their careers more effectively. Takeaways: ·      Don't discuss sensitive topics in elevators. ·      Being called relentless can be a positive trait. ·      Striving for something above your means fosters growth. ·      The importance of speaking up against workplace bullying. ·      Read everything you sign! ·      Resilience is built through facing crises head-on. ·      Innovation in construction is necessary for growth. ·      Building a supportive culture is essential for employee retention. ·      Grace & kindness in professional settings can make a significant impact. Read the first article in the four-part series which explores how alternative workweek models are challenging long-held assumptions about time, productivity and the role of the office. https://www.savills.us/blog/article/389498/us-articles/fantasy--or-the-future--four-day-workweeks-could-be-reshaping-our-workplace.aspx   Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Katrina 10:11 Leadership vs Management 17:17 Lessons Learned from Experience 19:57 Perceptions of Women in Leadership 22:10 Entrepreneurship and Women 24:54 Navigating Business Challenges 28:03 Facing Workplace Bullying 30:28 Unexpected Career Longevity 32:52 Resilience in Crisis 43:40 Rethinking Work Structures

    44 min
  2. Episode 18 - Lisa Webb

    19 MAY

    Episode 18 - Lisa Webb

    In this episode of Recon, host Bev Williams speaks with Lisa Webb, a Senior Planning Partner at Newmark UK, about her extensive career in the construction industry. Lisa shares insights on the importance of building relationships, the rewards of leadership, and the challenges she has faced, including personal loss. They discuss the significance of networking, the impact of mentorship, and the strides being made towards gender equality in the industry. 🌟The Rewards of a Transformative Career🌟 During the conversation, Lisa reflects on the most rewarding aspects of her career. Moreover, she emphasises the importance of social impact in her work. 🌟Leadership: Beyond Titles🌟 To Lisa, being authentic and building strong relationships is key. She has made it a point to be transparent about her commitments, especially regarding work-life balance. This approach has not only set a positive example for her colleagues but has also encouraged other women in her field to establish similar boundaries. 🌟Overcoming Challenges🌟 One of the most significant challenges Lisa faced was the sudden loss of her business partner, in a tragic accident. She describes this experience as a pivotal moment in her career, forcing her to confront her resilience and leadership capabilities. That tragedy became Lisa’s greatest lesson in resilience and trust — trust in herself, in her team, in the endless capacity we have to adapt and grow. The real victory? Seeing how your darkest moments can forge the strongest versions of yourself. Maybe that’s the point. Maybe resilience isn’t just about bouncing back. It’s about rising stronger after falling. Worth thinking about…. 🌟The Power of Connections🌟 Lisa emphasises the importance of networking in building a successful career. Hop-Hop reflects her commitment to fostering supportive relationships and mentorship opportunities. In conclusion, Lisa’s journey serves as an inspiring example of resilience, leadership, and the power of connection.  Takeaways: ·      Confidence comes with experience and is crucial for success. ·      Building strong relationships is key to effective leadership. ·      Flexibility in the workplace supports women in their careers. ·      Mistakes are learning opportunities that can build trust. ·      Self-care and rest are important for sustained success. ·      You don't need a grand master plan to succeed in your career. HOP HOP uses a relaxed, simple process to regularly introduce you to brand new connections every fortnight. For each chat, you get a warm email introduction and a mutually agreed time for a 30 minute conversation.Chat with fellow female professionals in a natural way. To sign up use link https://www.hophop.chat/p/join-female-property-professionals-like-you   Ula Caroto https://queenofrest.co.uk/about/ Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Lisa Webb and Her Career Journey 03:10 The Rewards of a Transformative Career 05:51 Leadership Mindset and Actions 08:55 Overcoming Personal Challenges 12:07 The Importance of Networking 15:09 Creating Opportunities for Women 18:07 Facing Insults and Embracing Identity 23:57 Learning from Mistakes 27:01 The Excitement of a Planning Career 30:06 Supporting Women in the Industry

    30 min
  3. Episode 17 - Fiona Goddard

    12 MAY

    Episode 17 - Fiona Goddard

    In this episode of Recon, host Bev Williams speaks with Fiona Goddard, Head of MEP for UK and Ireland at AECOM. They discuss Fiona's journey in the engineering field, the importance of teamwork and leadership, the challenges of balancing work and family life, and the value of networking. Fiona shares her insights on overcoming challenges, embracing failure, and the evolving role of AI in engineering. The conversation emphasises the need for mentorship and support for emerging talent, as well as the importance of building confidence in the workplace. Fiona Goddard is an accomplished leader in the engineering sector, currently overseeing a team of over 350 engineers at AECOM. She began her career at 17 as a trainee electrical engineer and has since built a reputation as a credible expert in her field. Fiona’s commitment to nurturing talent and her practical experience make her insights invaluable for anyone looking to advance in the engineering industry. A key principle in Fiona’s leadership style is leading by example. By staying involved in the technical aspects of projects, she demonstrates her commitment and understanding of the work at hand. Fiona shares her experience of balancing a demanding career while raising a family. She highlights the prevalent issue of guilt that working parents face, especially women, when trying to juggle professional responsibilities and family commitments.  One of the most critical lessons Fiona has learnt is the value of connecting with people in the industry. Building relationships beyond project discussions can lead to future collaborations and opportunities. In conclusion, fostering the next generation of engineering leaders requires a commitment to teamwork, effective leadership, and building meaningful connections. By prioritising these elements, we can ensure a thriving future for the engineering profession. Takeaways: ·      Failure is a part of the journey, and feedback is vital for improvement. ·      Flexibility and openness to opportunities can lead to unexpected career paths. ·      AI will change the role of engineers, but human judgment remains irreplaceable. ·      Confidence-building initiatives are important for all individuals in the workplace. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Fiona Goddard and Her Journey 03:59 The Importance of Teamwork and Leadership 09:59 Balancing Work and Family Life 14:55 The Value of Networking and Connections 19:55 Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Failure 24:53 Navigating Career Expectations and Opportunities 30:02 Mentorship and Supporting Emerging Talent

    32 min
  4. Episode 16 - Penny Vinten

    28 APR

    Episode 16 - Penny Vinten

    In this episode of Recon, host Bev Williams speaks with Penny Vinten, a seasoned professional in the construction industry. They discuss Penny's career journey, the importance of mentorship, leadership qualities, and the evolving landscape of the construction sector. Penny shares her insights on navigating challenges, the significance of integrity, and her hopes for the future of women in construction. The conversation emphasises the value of experience, continuous learning, and supporting the next generation of leaders. One of her most powerful insights? “Expertise opens doors. Integrity keeps them open.” Everyone faces setbacks, but Penny’s story highlights that perseverance and integrity can turn even the darkest moments into victories. She recounts a period where her professionalism was questioned — an experience that shook her confidence and triggered panic attacks.Her response? Staying the course. With support from family and friends, Penny proved her innocence and emerged stronger. Her resilience teaches us that real strength lies in standing firm, fighting for what’s right, and trusting your judgment. A valuable lesson: “Don’t let external negativity define you. Your integrity is your most valuable asset.” Takeaways: Leadership is about daily integrity, consistency, and approachability.Resilience and staying true to your values will see you through challenges.Mentoring and supporting women accelerates positive change in the industry.Building for the future requires social responsibility coupled with excellence.Career paths are rarely linear—embrace the unpredictable and enjoy the ride.Every day brings new challenges, and it's okay to have ups and downs.Continuous learning is essential for effective leadership.Integrity is the foundation of trust and long-term success.Embrace change and continuous learning to stay relevant. Resources: ·       The NSPCC Building Safer Communities for Children toolkit puts children at the heart of places the sector designs, builds and operates. Chapters: 00:00 Introduction to Penny Vinten 01:40 Navigating Career Transitions 06:04 Leadership Insights and Consistency 07:51 Overcoming Challenges in Career 10:15 Lessons Learned and Integrity 13:30 Women in Construction and Support 19:39 Future Hopes for the Industry 21:10 Closing Thoughts and Inspirational Quotes

    24 min
  5. Episode 15 - Kate Mason

    21 APR

    Episode 15 - Kate Mason

    In this engaging episode of Recon, host Bev Williams speaks with Kate Mason, Senior Principal of Workplace Design at Unispace, about her extensive career in the construction industry. They discuss the importance of relationships, the challenges of maternity leave, and the evolving role of women in leadership. Kate shares her insights on effective leadership, the significance of mentorship, and the need for greater support for women returning to work. The conversation highlights the importance of using one's voice and the hope for a more inclusive future in the construction industry. Takeaways: ·      The most rewarding aspect of my career is the relationships I've built. ·      Leadership is learned over time and requires self-reflection. ·      It's important to support women returning from maternity leave. ·      Judging others too quickly can hinder personal growth. ·      Embracing age and experience can be empowering in the workplace. ·      Mentorship is crucial for guiding women in their careers. ·      The construction industry needs to attract women from an early age. ·      Flexible roles can help women return to work after a break. ·      Using your voice is essential for making change. 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 Kate Mason and Her Journey 04:32 The Rewards of Relationships in the Industry 08:29 Leadership: Actions, Habits, and Reflections 12:54 Challenges of Maternity Leave and Career Progression 15:29 Lessons Learned: Judging Others and Personal Growth 18:52 Embracing Age and Experience in the Workplace 23:31 The Importance of Mentorship and Supporting Women 27:35 Future Hopes for Women in the Construction Industry 31:31 Closing Thoughts and Inspirational Messages

    33 min
  6. Episode 14 - Yoshimi Douglas-Street

    14 APR

    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
  7. 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
  8. 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
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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

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