The Lighting Fires Podcast

Julie Williams
  • 5.0 (2)
  • Management

The Lighting Fires Podcast, supported by Henley Business School and hosted by Executive Coach, Julie Williams MSc. The Lighting Fires Podcast is a space for real conversations about change, growth, and the spark that starts it all. Julie has a Master's in Coaching and Behavioural change, over 10 years experience of running her own coaching practice, and 15 years experience in marketing leadership roles. In each episode, Julie sits down with one of her coaching clients to reflect on pivotal moments in their personal and professional journeys — from navigating imposter syndrome to finding confidence in leadership, from starting a business to rediscovering purpose. Expect honest reflections, practical insights, and inspiring stories from people who've dared to light a fire under their own ambitions. Whether you're leading a team, building a business, or simply wondering what's next, these conversations will help you tune in to your own spark — and fuel your next step. If you're interested in finding out more about how Julie could work with you or your team, go to www.lightingfires.co.uk You can also contact Julie by emailing julie@lightingfires.co.uk or connect at linkedin.com/in/juliewilliamsexeccoach Interested in becoming a coach? Find out more about Henley Business School here: https://www.henley.ac.uk/corporate-development/coaching

  1. 4d ago

    S3 E6- Becoming the leader only you can be, with Sophie Greenaway

    Host: Julie Williams MSc- Executive Coach & Founder of Lighting Fires Guest: Sophie Greenaway- Headteacher In this episode of The Lighting Fires Podcast, supported by Henley Business School, Julie is joined by Sophie Greenaway, Headteacher at Thameside Primary School, Reading, who shares her journey from teacher to headteacher, the challenges of following in the footsteps of a highly respected predecessor, and how coaching helped her overcome imposter syndrome and develop confidence in her own leadership style. Together, they explore the power of coaching, why great leaders don't need to have all the answers, and how creating a coaching culture empowers others to think for themselves. Sophie also reflects on navigating difficult conversations, balancing the demands of school leadership with family life, and learning to let go of perfectionism. Towards the end of the episode, Sophie shares how receiving a later-life ADHD diagnosis helped her make sense of many of the challenges she'd experienced throughout her career, leading to a greater sense of self-awareness, confidence and acceptance. Whether you're leading a school, a team or an organisation, this episode is full of honest reflections and practical insights into authentic leadership. In this episode, you'll hear about: Sophie's journey to becoming a Headteacher Finding your own leadership style Overcoming imposter syndrome The role coaching played in building confidence Empowering others instead of solving every problem Preparing for difficult conversations Leading through challenge and change Balancing leadership with family life Receiving a later-life ADHD diagnosis Why understanding yourself makes you a better leader Resources mentioned Fierce Conversations by Susan Scott   If you're interested in working with Julie please contact her at julie@lightingfires.co.uk, or  Julie Williams MSc. (nee Walls) | LinkedIn or through her website here. And if you're interested in developing your coaching skills, Julie highly recommends the Professional Certificate in Executive Coaching at Henley Business School, a programme grounded in research, with a strong focus on practical application and real-world impact. To find out more, visit Henley Business School. To find out more about the Insights Discovery psychometric tool, visit Insights Discovery. If you found this episode helpful, please leave a five-star rating and review, it helps more listeners discover these real-world leadership stories and coaching insights.  Artwork by Ian Guppy | Music by Penguin Music via Pixabay | Produced by Perri Hurley

    53 min
  2. S3 EP5- From Lumberjack to Conductor: Paul Whitby's Leadership Story.

    Jun 24

    S3 EP5- From Lumberjack to Conductor: Paul Whitby's Leadership Story.

    Host: Julie Williams MSc – Executive Coach & Founder of Lighting Fires Guest: Paul Whitby – Founder and Managing Directory of The Ecology Co-op In this episode of The Lighting Fires Podcast, supported by Henley Business School, Julie is joined by ecologist, entrepreneur and nature enthusiast Paul Whitby for a fascinating conversation about leadership, business growth, coaching and finding a more sustainable way to work. Paul shares how a childhood fascination with wildlife led him to build The Ecology Co-op, growing it from a one-person consultancy into a thriving business employing a team of specialist ecologists. He reflects on the challenges of leading a rapidly growing company through the pandemic, working unsustainable hours, and learning to step back from the day-to-day in order to think more strategically. Together, Julie and Paul explore how coaching helped Paul develop a different approach to leadership, improve delegation, create stronger systems and processes, and ultimately navigate the successful sale of his business into the European environmental consultancy group, Myllium. Julie and Paul discuss: ·       Building and scaling a business while staying true to your values ·       The challenges of leadership during periods of rapid growth ·       Why coaching can feel like "business therapy" ·       Learning to step back and think strategically ·       Delegation, leadership styles and letting go of control ·       Using metaphors and visual reminders to create lasting change ·       Creating systems and processes that support sustainable growth ·       Selling a business and finding the right cultural fit ·       Purpose-driven leadership and protecting the natural environment ·       The benefits and challenges of implementing a four-day working week This episode is an inspiring conversation about leadership, purpose and creating a business that works not only for your clients and team, but for yourself as well. Resources Mentioned ·       Essentialism by Greg McKeown ·       Theodore Roosevelt's The Man in the Arena speech ·       David Attenborough's Life on Earth If you're interested in working with Julie please contact her at julie@lightingfires.co.uk, or  Julie Williams MSc. (nee Walls) | LinkedIn or through her website here. And if you're interested in developing your coaching skills, Julie highly recommends the Professional Certificate in Executive Coaching at Henley Business School, a programme grounded in research, with a strong focus on practical application and real-world impact. To find out more, visit Henley Business School. To find out more about the Insights Discovery psychometric tool, visit Insights Discovery. Connect with Julie Website:        lightingfires.co.uk Email:             julie@lightingfires.co.uk LinkedIn:        Julie Williams MSc If you found this episode helpful, please leave a five-star rating and review, it helps more listeners discover these real-world leadership stories and coaching insights. Artwork by Ian Guppy | Music by Penguin Music via Pixabay | Produced by Perri Hurley

    36 min
  3. S3 EP4: The Power of Not Taking It Personally, with Amanda Lennon

    Jun 10

    S3 EP4: The Power of Not Taking It Personally, with Amanda Lennon

    Host: Julie Williams MSc - Executive Coach & Founder of Lighting Fires Guest: Amanda Lennon - HR Consultant, Employment Lawyer and Founder of Astralis HR In this episode of The Lighting Fires Podcast, supported by Henley Business School, Julie is joined by Amanda Lennon for an honest conversation about courage, resilience, confidence and navigating a successful career on your own terms. Amanda shares her journey from employment law into senior HR leadership, becoming the only woman on a board at just 29 years old. After a successful corporate career, she went on to launch her own consultancy business, Astralis HR. Along the way, she has navigated challenges around confidence, rejection, identity and balancing an ambitious career with family life. Together, Julie and Amanda reflect on the coaching journey that helped Amanda build resilience, manage difficult situations more effectively and develop the confidence to bring more of her authentic self into the workplace. Julie and Amanda discuss: Building confidence and personal impact in leadership roles  Being a young female leader in a male-dominated environment  Managing difficult conversations and workplace conflict  Resilience, redundancy and bouncing back from setbacks  Why business decisions are rarely personal  The role of values in career decisions and workplace culture  Imposter syndrome and learning to trust your own abilities  Taking calculated risks and having the courage to try new things  Moving from corporate leadership into self-employment and consulting  The importance of lifelong learning and staying open to new perspectives  Amanda also shares some of the practical techniques that helped her step back from emotionally charged situations, gain perspective and approach challenging conversations with greater calm and confidence. This episode is a thoughtful and encouraging conversation for anyone facing a career crossroads, building confidence in leadership, or wondering how to navigate challenges without losing sight of who they are. If you're interested in working with Julie please contact her at julie@lightingfires.co.uk, or  Julie Williams MSc. (nee Walls) | LinkedIn or through her website here. And if you're interested in developing your coaching skills, Julie highly recommends the Professional Certificate in Executive Coaching at Henley Business School, a programme grounded in research, with a strong focus on practical application and real-world impact. To find out more, visit Henley Business School. To find out more about the Insights Discovery psychometric tool, visit Insights Discovery. Connect with Julie Website: lightingfires.co.uk Email: julie@lightingfires.co.uk LinkedIn: Julie Williams MSc  If you found this episode helpful, please leave a five-star rating and review, it helps more listeners discover these real-world leadership stories and coaching insights. Artwork by Ian Guppy | Music by Penguin Music via Pixabay | Produced by Perri Hurley

    34 min
  4. S3 EP3: Han Solo or Princess Leia- Leadership, AI and Adaptability with Rory McLaren.

    May 27

    S3 EP3: Han Solo or Princess Leia- Leadership, AI and Adaptability with Rory McLaren.

    Host: Julie Williams MSc - Executive Coach & Founder of Lighting Fires Guest: Rory McLaren - Technology and Product Leader In this episode of The Lighting Fires Podcast, supported by Henley Business School, Julie is joined by Rory McLaren for a thoughtful and wide-ranging conversation about leadership, adaptability, confidence and learning how to navigate change. Rory shares his journey from growing up in a remote ex-mining village in Scotland to becoming a Chief Technology Officer and co-founder of a successful startup, before transitioning into leadership within a much larger global corporate environment following an acquisition. Together, Julie and Rory explore the culture shock of moving from a fast-paced startup into a complex international organisation, and how coaching helped Rory develop the tools, confidence and self-awareness to lead more effectively. Julie and Rory discuss: Moving from technical expert to strategic leader Learning to influence without authority Imposter syndrome and feeling out of place in corporate environments The value of adaptability in leadership Why asking "stupid questions" can drive innovation and psychological safety Understanding personality differences through Myers-Briggs Reactive versus proactive leadership styles Building confidence through coaching and role play The importance of curiosity, learning and sharing knowledge AI, coaching and why human relationships still matter Rory also reflects on his shift from "Han Solo" leadership, reactive and firefighting, to a calmer, more intentional and strategic "Princess Leia" approach. This episode is a fascinating conversation about leadership in modern organisations, the power of curiosity, and why human connection and adaptability will remain essential in a rapidly changing world. If you're interested in working with Julie please contact her at julie@lightingfires.co.uk, or  Julie Williams MSc. (nee Walls) | LinkedIn or through her website here. And if you're interested in developing your coaching skills, Julie highly recommends the Professional Certificate in Executive Coaching at Henley Business School, a programme grounded in research, with a strong focus on practical application and real-world impact. To find out more, visit Henley Business School. To find out more about the Insights Discovery psychometric tool, visit Insights Discovery. Resources Mentioned ·      Myers-Briggs personality frameworks ·      Insights Discovery personality frameworks Connect with Julie Website:  lightingfires.co.uk Email:      julie@lightingfires.co.uk LinkedIn: Julie Williams MSc If you found this episode helpful, please leave a five-star rating and review, it helps more listeners discover these real-world leadership stories and coaching insights. Artwork by Ian Guppy | Music by Penguin Music via Pixabay | Produced by Perri Hurley

    36 min
  5. S3 EP2: Career change, confidence and knowing when It's time to leave - with Kate Gräfe

    May 13

    S3 EP2: Career change, confidence and knowing when It's time to leave - with Kate Gräfe

    Host: Julie Williams MSc - Executive Coach & Founder of Lighting Fires Guest: Kate Gräfe - Social Value Director and former procurement and supply chain leader In this episode of The Lighting Fires Podcast, supported by Henley Business School, Julie is joined by Kate Gräfe for an honest and reflective conversation about career change, confidence, self-awareness and creating a working life that genuinely fits. After nearly two decades working in procurement and supply chain leadership within local government, Kate reached a crossroads. Following the pandemic, she began questioning whether the career path she had followed for years still aligned with who she was and how she wanted to live and work. Together, Julie and Kate explore the coaching journey that helped Kate redefine success on her own terms, challenge self-limiting beliefs, and transition into a role focused on sustainability and social value. Julie and Kate discuss: Knowing when it's time to leave a role or career path Career crossroads and creating a clearer vision for the future Balancing ambition, family life and wellbeing Discovering your "hidden superpower" through greater self-awareness The realities of self-employment and finding the right working environment Imposter syndrome, confidence and learning not to undervalue yourself How coaching creates clarity, structure and momentum during times of change Redundancy, resilience and staying open to unexpected opportunities Understanding interpersonal differences through personality profiles Kate also reflects on the surprising realisation that came through personality profiling work during coaching, and how understanding where she gets her energy from helped shape the next stage of her career and life. This episode is a thoughtful and relatable conversation for anyone questioning their next step, navigating a career transition, or wondering whether there might be another way forward. If you're interested in working with Julie please contact her at julie@lightingfires.co.uk, or Julie Williams MSc. (nee Walls) | LinkedIn or through her website here. And if you're interested in developing your coaching skills, Julie highly recommends the Professional Certificate in Executive Coaching at Henley Business School, a programme grounded in research, with a strong focus on practical application and real-world impact. To find out more, visit Henley Business School. To find out more about the Insights Discovery psychometric tool, visit Insights Discovery. Resources Mentioned Myers-Briggs Insights Discovery personality frameworks Connect with Julie Website: lightingfires.co.uk Email: julie@lightingfires.co.uk LinkedIn: Julie Williams MSc If you found this episode helpful, please leave a five-star rating and review, it helps more listeners discover these real-world leadership stories and coaching insights. Artwork by Ian Guppy | Music by Penguin Music via Pixabay | Produced by Perri Hurley

    40 min
  6. S3 EP1: Accidental Manager to Confident Leader with Steve Jones

    Apr 29

    S3 EP1: Accidental Manager to Confident Leader with Steve Jones

    Host: Julie Williams MSc – Executive Coach & Founder of Lighting Fires Guest: Steve Jones –Head of Education & Application Support (EMEA) at d&b audiotechnik In the opening episode of Series 3 of The Lighting Fires Podcast, supported by Henley Business School, Julie is joined by Steve Jones for an honest and insightful conversation about leadership, confidence, self-awareness and the power of coaching. Steve shares the experiences that shaped his resilient outlook on life, from a challenging childhood to building a successful international career in the fast-paced live events industry. He reflects on stepping into leadership without a traditional management pathway, navigating team conflict during the pandemic, and the self-doubt that can come with increased responsibility.  Together, Julie and Steve explore how coaching helped Steve better understand himself, recognise his strengths, and grow into a more confident and authentic leader. Julie and Steve discuss: How difficult life experiences can shape resilience and mindset  Moving from technical expert to people leader  Why many managers feel unprepared for leadership roles  Understanding interpersonal differences through personality profiles  Overcoming imposter syndrome and building executive presence  The value of self-awareness in leadership  Why coaching creates the time and space to think clearly  Leading teams with greater honesty, confidence and trust  This episode is a powerful reminder that leadership doesn't require perfection or having all the answers. Often, it begins with understanding yourself. If you're interested in developing your coaching skills, Julie highly recommends the Professional Certificate in Executive Coaching at Henley Business School, a programme grounded in research, with a strong focus on practical application and real-world impact. To find out more, visit Henley Business School. To find out more about the Insights Discovery psychometric tool, visit Insights Discovery. Resources Mentioned Myers-Briggs and Insights Discovery personality frameworks  Surrounded by Idiots by Thomas Erikson  Purposive Drift by Richard Oliver (career and leadership development concept)  Connect with Julie Website: lightingfires.co.uk Email: julie@lightingfires.co.uk LinkedIn: Julie Williams MSc If you found this episode helpful, please leave a five-star rating and review, it helps more listeners discover these real-world leadership stories and coaching insights. Artwork by Ian Guppy | Music by Penguin Music via Pixabay | Produced by Perri Hurley

    30 min
  7. Confidence and Identity: What Coaching Can Do For You

    Apr 15 ·  Bonus

    Confidence and Identity: What Coaching Can Do For You

    Host: Julie Williams MSc- Executive Coach & Founder of Lighting Fires Guest: Katie Denyer- Executive Coach, Supervisor and Tutor at Henley Business School In this bonus episode of The Lighting Fires Podcast, supported by Henley Business School, Julie is joined by Katie Denyer. Katie is also an executive coach, a supervisor, and a tutor on the Professional Certificate in Executive Coaching at Henley Business School. Together, they explore what coaching really looks like in practice, unpacking some of the most common themes that have come up across the series so far. From identity and confidence to limiting beliefs and career change, this episode offers a deeper insight into how coaching helps people better understand themselves and move forward with clarity. Julie and Katie discuss: How our identity evolves over time, and why it's more flexible than we think  The impact of limiting beliefs and where they often originate  Practical techniques to build confidence and feel more grounded in challenging situations  The connection between mind and body, and how this shows up in our work and lives  How to approach career change and make decisions that feel more aligned  This conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look at the coaching process, with practical ideas and reflections you can apply to your own life. If you're interested in working with Julie on these topics contact her julie@lightingfires.co.uk or on LinkedIn. And if you're interested in developing your coaching skills, Julie highly recommends the Professional Certificate in Executive Coaching at Henley Business School - a programme grounded in research, with a strong focus on practical application and real-world impact. To find out more, visit Henley Business School.   Previous Episodes Mentioned: S1 EP1: Finding Purpose and Leading Authentically – A Coaching Conversation with Pete Wharton S1 EP6: Lighting Fires Podcast – Navigating Identity, Grief & Values with Hannah   Connect with Julie Website: lightingfires.co.uk Email: julie@lightingfires.co.uk LinkedIn: Julie Williams MSc If you found this episode helpful, please leave a five-star rating and review- it helps more listeners find these real-world leadership stories and coaching insights. Artwork by Ian Guppy Music by Penguin Music via Pixabay Produced by Perri Hurley

    24 min
  8. S2 EP6: Finding Calm in the Chaos: Confidence, Leadership and Late ADHD Diagnosis

    Feb 18

    S2 EP6: Finding Calm in the Chaos: Confidence, Leadership and Late ADHD Diagnosis

    Host: Julie Williams MSc- Executive Coach & Founder of Lighting Fires Guest: Rachael Burns- Head of Sales Operations, Capgemini In this episode of The Lighting Fires Podcast, supported by Henley Business School, Julie is joined by Rachael Burns to reflect on the coaching they did together when Rachael stepped into her first senior leadership role. Rachael shares her unconventional route into finance, leaving school at 16, starting out as a hairdresser, and building a successful career without going to university, before talking candidly about the challenges she faced when she took on a large, experienced team during a period of significant organisational change. Together, Julie and Rachael explore what it really takes to grow into leadership: building confidence, finding your own authentic style, learning how to give honest and constructive feedback, and staying calm when everything around you feels chaotic. The conversation also looks back with new insight on Rachael's later ADHD diagnosis, and how understanding neurodiversity can shape coaching, leadership and support in the workplace. Julie and Rachael talk about: Taking on a first leadership role and finding confidence in your own style Why being good at your job doesn't automatically prepare you to lead people Learning how to have honest, constructive (and courageous) conversations Using the Fierce Conversations framework to prepare for difficult feedback Practical coaching techniques for gaining perspective and staying calm Finding rhythm and authenticity in leadership How visual and experiential coaching tools supported Rachael's development Reflecting on a later ADHD diagnosis and what it explains in hindsight How coaches and managers can better support neurodivergent individuals The importance of flexibility, curiosity and understanding in coaching relationships This episode will resonate with leaders stepping into bigger roles, anyone navigating change, and coaches or managers wanting to better understand how different people experience work, pressure and growth. Resources & Tools Mentioned in This Episode Fierce Conversations- Susan Scott A practical framework for having honest, constructive and courageous conversations at work. DOSE- TJ Power A neuroscience-based book exploring dopamine, oxytocin, serotonin and endorphins, and how modern life impacts our brain chemistry, focus and wellbeing. The Huberman Lab Podcast- Dr Andrew Huberman A science-led podcast exploring brain function, behaviour, focus, mental health and performance. The Stompcast- Dr Alex George A walking podcast exploring mental health, wellbeing and difficult conversations in a relaxed, accessible way. Time to Think / Nancy Kline's Thinking Environment A coaching approach centred on deep listening and asking spacious questions such as "What more do you want to say?"   Henley Business School Interested in a career in coaching? Find out about the Professional Certificate in Executive Coaching (or the MSc in Executive Coaching) at Henley Business School here. Be sure to mention the Lighting Fires Podcast if you do contact Henley Business School. Connect with Julie Website: lightingfires.co.uk Email: julie@lightingfires.co.uk LinkedIn: Julie Williams MSc If you found this episode helpful, please leave a five-star rating and review- it helps more listeners find these real-world leadership stories and coaching insights.

    43 min
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About

The Lighting Fires Podcast, supported by Henley Business School and hosted by Executive Coach, Julie Williams MSc. The Lighting Fires Podcast is a space for real conversations about change, growth, and the spark that starts it all. Julie has a Master's in Coaching and Behavioural change, over 10 years experience of running her own coaching practice, and 15 years experience in marketing leadership roles. In each episode, Julie sits down with one of her coaching clients to reflect on pivotal moments in their personal and professional journeys — from navigating imposter syndrome to finding confidence in leadership, from starting a business to rediscovering purpose. Expect honest reflections, practical insights, and inspiring stories from people who've dared to light a fire under their own ambitions. Whether you're leading a team, building a business, or simply wondering what's next, these conversations will help you tune in to your own spark — and fuel your next step. If you're interested in finding out more about how Julie could work with you or your team, go to www.lightingfires.co.uk You can also contact Julie by emailing julie@lightingfires.co.uk or connect at linkedin.com/in/juliewilliamsexeccoach Interested in becoming a coach? Find out more about Henley Business School here: https://www.henley.ac.uk/corporate-development/coaching

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