Kicking The Door Down

Debbie Airey

Dedicated to supporting saleswomen within Industry, the good, the bad and the down right scary! 

  1. Kicking the Door Down with Rebecca Lovelace & Marsha Ramroop - Building People

    3D AGO

    Kicking the Door Down with Rebecca Lovelace & Marsha Ramroop - Building People

    Guest  names Rebecca Lovelace and Marsha Ramroop Summary This episode features Rebecca Lovelace and Marsha Ramroop discussing the importance of gender equity, diversity, and inclusion in the built environment sector. They explore fragmentation in efforts, the need for a unified approach, and how culture change is vital for sector-wide progress. key  topics Fragmentation in diversity initiatives Building People network of networks Creating infrastructure for collaboration The importance of culture change in the sector Supporting women and underrepresented groups Titles   Building a Unified Voice for Gender Equity in Construction How Culture Change Can Transform the Built Environment Sector Guest links https://www.linkedin.com/in/marsharamroop/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/rebecca-lovelace-7625013/ Kicking The Door Down

    31 min

  2. FEB 15

    Kicking the Door Down: Deb Airey - The Epstein Legacy

    Advisory Listening!! Summary In this episode of Kicking the Door Down, host Debbie Airey delves into the complex and painful realities surrounding the Epstein case, institutional failures, and the ongoing struggle for women's rights. She shares her personal experiences as a survivor, highlighting the systemic issues that perpetuate silence and protect power over justice. The conversation explores the intersections of trauma, healthcare, and domestic violence, emphasizing the need for empathy and change in societal attitudes towards women. Takeaways This episode is harder than most because it is a lived reality. Institutions prioritize survival over delivering justice. Trauma does not remain in the past simply because time has passed. Danger for women is not always outside our front door; it can be within relationships. Justice becomes a debate when survivors feel unheard. Rights are not permanent; they can be contested and removed. Indifference to trauma is more dangerous than pain. Every time a woman speaks, it challenges the status quo. Patterns of abuse are recognizable to survivors. Empathy is essential for challenging systemic injustices. Kicking The Door Down

    17 min

  3. FEB 15

    Kicking the Door Down: Deb Airey Women's rights in Europe

    Summary In this episode of Kicking the Door Down, Debbie Airey discusses the upcoming European vote on women's rights, focusing on the critical issue of abortion access across member states. She highlights the disparities in women's rights and healthcare access in different European countries, emphasizing the need for equality in reproductive rights as foundational to overall gender equality. The conversation also explores how societal inequalities impact workplace equality and the challenges women face in achieving autonomy and opportunity in their careers. Takeaways The European vote on women's rights is crucial and underreported. Abortion access varies significantly across Europe, affecting women's autonomy. Legal inequality leads to lived inequality for women. Reproductive rights are essential for gender equality. Workplace equality cannot exist in a vacuum; it reflects societal structures. Organizations may strive for equality, but societal imbalances hinder progress. Women face unique risks and challenges due to unequal reproductive rights. True equality requires alignment between law, society, and workplace policies. The conversation about women's health needs to be more visible in media. Engagement and discussion are vital for driving change in women's rights. Kicking The Door Down

    12 min
  4. Kicking the Door Down with Abbey Atkinson: Misogyny in the Work Place

    FEB 7

    Kicking the Door Down with Abbey Atkinson: Misogyny in the Work Place

    Summary In this episode, Debbie Airey and Abbie Atkinson delve into the pervasive issue of misogyny in the workplace, discussing both visible and invisible forms of misogyny. They explore personal experiences and examples of overt and unconscious biases that women face daily. The conversation highlights the importance of male allies in combating misogyny and the need for organizational change to create a more inclusive environment. They emphasize the significance of reflection and personal responsibility in fostering a culture of respect and equality. Takeaways Visible misogyny includes daily practices that often go unnoticed. Overt misogyny manifests in conscious behaviours and comments. Invisible misogyny is rooted in organizational culture and structures. Male allies play a crucial role in addressing misogyny in the workplace. Creating safe spaces for women is essential for open dialogue. Reflection on personal behaviour can lead to positive change. Misogyny is a business problem, not just a women's issue. The ideal worker stereotype is often male-dominated. Organizations need to expand their talent pools for diversity. Change starts with individual responsibility and accountability. https://www.linkedin.com/in/abbey-atkinson-phd-88460257/ Kicking The Door Down

    42 min
  5. Kicking the Door Down with Catherine Lynch & Natalie Guyan founders of Hustle n Health

    JAN 29

    Kicking the Door Down with Catherine Lynch & Natalie Guyan founders of Hustle n Health

    Unlocking Your Potential: Insights from Nat and Kat on Hustle and Health  Introduction: In the latest episode of Kicking the Door Down, hosts Debbie Airey welcome the dynamic duo Nat and Kat from Hustle and Health. These inspiring guests share their journey of balancing hustle with health, offering valuable insights for anyone looking to optimize their lifestyle.  Main Content:  1. **Meet Nat and Kat**      Nat and Kat are not just fitness enthusiasts; they are passionate advocates for a balanced lifestyle. In this episode, they dive into their experiences and the importance of maintaining health while pursuing ambitious goals. Their engaging personalities shine through as they recount their journey, emphasizing that success is not solely measured by achievements but also by well-being.   2. **The Hustle and Health Philosophy**      The core principle of Hustle and Health is finding equilibrium between hard work and self-care. Nat and Kat explain how they manage their time effectively, ensuring they prioritize health amidst their busy schedules. They believe that taking care of one’s physical and mental health is essential for sustained productivity. For instance, they share practical tips about incorporating short workouts into daily routines and making mindful food choices.   3. **Navigating Challenges**      Every journey comes with obstacles, and Nat and Kat are no strangers to challenges. They discuss the misconceptions surrounding hustle culture and how it can lead to burnout if not balanced properly. By sharing their personal stories, they illustrate the importance of listening to one’s body and recognizing when to take a step back. This candid conversation encourages listeners to redefine their hustle mindset and prioritize their health.   4. **Actionable Takeaways**      Throughout the episode, Nat and Kat provide actionable advice for listeners. They suggest setting realistic goals, scheduling downtime, and incorporating physical activity into daily life. For example, they recommend taking short breaks during work to stretch or go for a quick walk, which can refresh the mind and boost productivity. Their insights are not only relatable but also easy to implement, making it accessible for everyone.   Conclusion:      Nat and Kat's discussion on Kicking the Door Down is a reminder that achieving success does not have to come at the expense of our health. By embracing a balanced approach, we can pursue our dreams while nurturing our well-being. Key takeaways include the importance of setting boundaries, prioritizing health, and finding joy in the hustle.   Hustle and Health, Nat and Kat, Kicking the Door Down, wellness, productivity, self-care, work-life balance, fitness tips.  https://hustlenhealth.com/  https://hustlenhealth.com/accelerateher/ https://www.facebook.com/groups/856875790538384 Kicking The Door Down

    1h 6m
  6. Kicking the Door Down with Katy Robinson MCIOB

    JAN 27

    Kicking the Door Down with Katy Robinson MCIOB

    Breaking Barriers: The Need for Inclusive Toilets on Construction Sites  Introduction: In a recent episode of the podcast "Kicking the Door Down," host Debbie Airey welcomed industry advocate Katie Robinson to discuss a pressing issue in construction that often goes unnoticed: the inadequacy of toilet facilities on construction sites. With the recent launch of the British Standard for Inclusive PPE, Katie highlights the importance of addressing not only safety gear but also essential welfare needs like accessible and clean toilets.  Section 1: The Launch of the British Standard for Inclusive PPE Katie Robinson, a senior project manager, recently celebrated the launch of the British Standard for Inclusive PPE, marking a significant milestone in her efforts to advocate for safety and inclusivity in the construction industry. This new standard aims to ensure that everyone on site is properly equipped and safe, reflecting a growing awareness of the diverse needs of workers. However, as Katie points out, the journey does not end here; it is merely the beginning of a larger movement to improve working conditions across the board.  Section 2: The Survey on Site Toilets During the podcast, Debbie and Katie discussed an alarming survey that Katie and her colleagues conducted regarding toilet facilities on construction sites. The overwhelming response revealed a host of issues, particularly for women and individuals with underlying health conditions. Katie shared her experiences, highlighting how women's toilets are often locked, used for storage, or completely inaccessible. This lack of consideration sends a clear message that women are not welcome on site, which can lead to a significant loss of talent in the industry.  Section 3: The Broader Implications The podcast delves into the broader implications of inadequate welfare facilities on site. Katie shared that many men also face challenges with the cleanliness and hygiene of the men's toilets, leading some to use women's facilities as a last resort. This situation not only affects morale but also raises questions about respect and care for all workers. The survey results indicated that the shocking conditions of site toilets are a barrier to retention and recruitment in an industry already facing a skill shortage.  Section 4: The Simple Solutions One of the most frustrating aspects of this issue is that the solutions are straightforward and achievable. As Katie notes, some contractors manage to provide excellent facilities, proving that it is possible to prioritize worker welfare without incurring significant costs. The podcast emphasizes the need for site managers to take responsibility for ensuring that all workers have access to clean, safe, and accessible toilet facilities, which ultimately contributes to a healthier and more productive workforce.  Conclusion: Key Takeaways The conversation between Debbie and Katie serves as a powerful reminder that welfare should never be an afterthought in the construction industry. The launch of the British Standard for Inclusive PPE marks an important step forward, but it is crucial that industry leaders also address the pressing issues surrounding site toilets. By prioritizing cleanliness, accessibility, and respect for all workers, the construction sector can take significant strides toward inclusivity and retention.  https://www.linkedin.com/in/katy-robinson-mciob-710619189/ https://lnkd.in/ev24s4vh Kicking The Door Down

    31 min
  7. Kicking the Door Down with Melanie Stewart: Breaking Barriers: The Artistic and Scientific World of Welding

    JAN 25

    Kicking the Door Down with Melanie Stewart: Breaking Barriers: The Artistic and Scientific World of Welding

    Introduction: In this episode of Kicking the Door Down, host Debbie Airey sits down with welding expert and entrepreneur Mel Stewart. With a rich background in welding engineering and a passion for creativity, Mel shares her inspiring journey and the exciting developments of her new business, AdMal. Together, they explore the unique blend of art and science in welding, the importance of community, and the role of technology in shaping the future of the industry.  Main Content:  1. The Welding Journey Begins The episode kicks off with a warm introduction where Debbie expresses her excitement about having Mel on the show. Mel reflects on her journey from being a lead weld engineer at Merritt Construction to co-founding AdMal. She highlights the specialized nature of welding, noting that many perceive it as a mystery, yet it is truly an art form that combines creativity and technical skill.  2. The Art and Science of Welding Mel captures the essence of welding by describing it as "the love child of art and science." She explains how many welders are inherently creative individuals, often engaging in artistic pursuits outside their work. This artistic flair is evident in the intricate designs and techniques employed in welding, showcasing a unique blend of creativity and precision.  3. Personal Connections to Welding Debbie shares her personal connection to welding, recalling how her father, a coded welder, sparked her interest as a child. She reminisces about the mesmerizing sight of welding and how it has pervaded various aspects of life, from construction to medical applications. Mel emphasizes that welding is everywhere, even in unexpected places, and encourages listeners to appreciate this vital craft.  4. Overcoming Challenges and Embracing Change The discussion shifts to the challenges Mel has faced throughout her career. From her experiences in the welding industry to managing her ADHD diagnosis, she candidly shares how these obstacles have shaped her perspective. Mel has learned to navigate her challenges by leveraging AI technology, which has become an essential tool in her writing process and business operations.  5. The Future of AdMal and Community Engagement As Mel discusses her new venture, AdMal, she reveals her vision for creating a welcoming space for young people, especially women, to explore welding. She shares plans for weekend workshops aimed at fostering creativity and skill development in a fun and supportive environment. This initiative reflects Mel's commitment to building a community around welding and inspiring the next generation.  6. The Role of AI in Business Mel's embrace of AI is a recurring theme in the conversation. She discusses how AI has helped her streamline operations at AdMal by generating quotes and managing data efficiently. This technology not only enhances productivity but also allows Mel to focus on what she loves most—mentoring and empowering others in the welding field.  Conclusion: In this engaging conversation, Mel Stewart exemplifies the power of resilience, creativity, and community in the welding industry. Her journey from a lead weld engineer to a passionate entrepreneur serves as an inspiring reminder that art and science can coexist beautifully. Key takeaways include the importance of embracing challenges, the value of community, and the potential of technology to enhance our work. https://www.linkedin.com/in/melanie-stewart-9b3a1749/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/admel-ltd/posts/?feedView=all Kicking The Door Down

    52 min
  8. Kicking the Door Down with Abbey Atkinson PHD: The Double Burdon of Women in Leadership

    JAN 19

    Kicking the Door Down with Abbey Atkinson PHD: The Double Burdon of Women in Leadership

    Introduction: In the latest episode of "Kicking the Door Down," host Debbie Airey welcomes back Dr. Abbie Atkinson to tackle the pressing issue of the double burden faced by women in leadership roles. As we dive into a conversation that uncovers the hidden challenges and cognitive loads women endure, we aim to shed light on how society can better support women leaders in breaking through barriers.  Section 1: Understanding the Double Burden   The term "double burden" traditionally refers to the challenge of balancing unpaid domestic labor with paid work, a responsibility that disproportionately falls on women. However, Dr. Atkinson emphasizes that this issue extends beyond household chores and into the workplace, where women often carry unseen emotional and cognitive burdens. This includes navigating both the expectations of leadership and the societal norms surrounding femininity. For example, women must often tread the fine line between being collaborative and assertive, as Dr. Atkinson explains. "When you lead collaboratively, you’re seen as weak. However, when you assert yourself, you’re seen as too dominant," she states. This double bind can lead to exhaustion and self-policing, where women constantly question how they are perceived in professional settings.  Section 2: The Leadership Bind   Dr. Atkinson highlights the narrow definitions of leadership that many organizations adhere to, which often do not accommodate the collaborative styles traditionally associated with women. This can lead to a situation where women feel they must conform to a masculine style of leadership to be respected. Debbie Airey shares her own experiences in meetings, noting that her contributions were scrutinized more than those of her male colleagues, revealing an underlying bias. This systemic issue calls for organizations to rethink their definitions of leadership and the qualities they value.  Section 3: The Impact of Tokenism   The conversation also touches on the concept of tokenism, where women leaders are not only hyper-visible as minorities in boardrooms but also feel invisible due to their numbers. Dr. Atkinson points out that the scrutiny faced by women leaders can undermine their credibility and force them to constantly re-establish trust among their peers. This phenomenon further adds to the cognitive load, as women must navigate their roles while proving their capabilities continuously. "You’re constantly trying to fit into a mould of leadership that’s accepted, which can dilute your authentic self," she notes, underscoring the difficulty of being an authentic leader under such pressures.  Section 4: Moving Forward   Both Debbie and Dr. Atkinson agree that the focus must shift from how women can survive in leadership to how organizations can create more inclusive environments. By addressing the structural implications and making leadership roles more accessible, businesses can benefit from diverse perspectives and innovative ideas. Dr. Atkinson urges listeners to consider, "Why do organizations need to make it so difficult for women leaders?" This critical question opens the door for discussions on necessary changes in corporate culture.  Conclusion:   The discussion between Debbie Airey and Dr. Abbie Atkinson reveals the complexities of the double burden that women face in leadership roles. From navigating the expectations of femininity to managing the pressures of tokenism, it's clear that significant changes are needed in organizational structures to support women leaders better. Key takeaways include the importance of redefining leadership qualities, addressing biases, and creating an inclusive workplace culture. By kicking down the barriers, we can pave the way for future generations of women leaders to thrive.  https://www.linkedin.com/in/abbey-atkinson-phd-88460257/ Kicking The Door Down

    56 min
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About

Dedicated to supporting saleswomen within Industry, the good, the bad and the down right scary! 

Information

  • Creator
    Debbie Airey
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    34
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Kicking The Door Down
  • Show Website
    Kicking The Door Down