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. 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. 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
  2. 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. 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
  3. 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. 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
  4. 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
  5. 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
  6. S2 EP5: Building, Ending and Beginning Again

    Feb 4

    S2 EP5: Building, Ending and Beginning Again

    Host: Julie Williams MSc – Executive Coach & Founder of Lighting Fires Guest: Greg Owen – Lead Product Designer, The LEGO Group In this episode of The Lighting Fires Podcast, supported by Henley Business School, Julie is joined by Greg Owen, Lead Product Designer at the LEGO Group, for a thoughtful and honest conversation about transitions, endings, and what it really takes to thrive at work. Greg reflects on his journey from professional ice hockey into design, entrepreneurship and leadership, and a significant chapter in his career: co-founding the digital design studio Daughter, growing it over seven years, and ultimately making the decision to bring the business to a close. Julie and Greg revisit the period when Julie was coaching Greg and his business partners, exploring what was happening beneath the surface at the time, what the coaching revealed, and how that work helped Greg gain clarity about his strengths, energy and what he needed in order to do his best work. This episode offers a rare and refreshing perspective on leadership and entrepreneurship, not through stories of scaling and success alone, but through the reality of recognising when something has run its course and navigating that ending with authenticity and integrity. Julie and Greg talk about: Transitioning from professional sport into business and leadership What it's really like to build a values-led business with friends Why clarity around roles, energy and purpose matters in leadership teams How coaching helped uncover what Greg needs in order to thrive Navigating difficult decisions with honesty, care and integrity The emotional and practical realities of ending a business Letting go, moving on, and finding renewed energy in new roles Creating space for reflection during times of uncertainty and change Greg also reflects on how his background in elite sport shaped his mindset around endings, competition and change, and how coaching techniques continue to influence his work in design and leadership today. This episode will resonate with business owners, leaders and creatives who are facing change, questioning what's next, or grappling with decisions that don't come with easy answers. Resources & Tools Mentioned Six Thinking Hats – Edward de Bono A powerful thinking and decision-making framework that helps individuals and teams explore ideas from multiple perspectives The Disney Creativity Strategy (Walt Disney Method) A simple yet effective creativity technique that separates thinking into three modes: Dreamer, Realist and Critic — allowing ideas to be explored, shaped and refined without shutting them down too early. Henley Business School Interested in a career in coaching? Find out about the Professional Certificate 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 insights.

    46 min
  7. S2 EP4: Stepping Into the Boardroom: Imposter Syndrome, Delegation and Finding Your Leadership Voice

    Jan 21

    S2 EP4: Stepping Into the Boardroom: Imposter Syndrome, Delegation and Finding Your Leadership Voice

    Host: Julie Williams MSc – Executive Coach & Founder of Lighting Fires Guest: Sarah Ciccolallo – Chief Operating Officer, Red Whale   After a short pause over the festive period, and an unexpected bout of illness, The Lighting Fires Podcast, supported by Henley Business School, is back with a thoughtful and honest conversation about leadership, confidence and growth.   In this episode, Julie is joined by Sarah Ciccolallo, Chief Operating Officer at Red Whale, who reflects on her journey from marketing manager to board director, and the coaching work that supported her through that transition.   Sarah speaks openly about experiencing imposter syndrome after stepping into her first board-level role, and how coaching helped her build confidence, shift her mindset, and develop new ways of leading.    Together, Julie and Sarah explore the practical tools, conversations and reflections that helped Sarah move from doing everything herself to creating space for strategic thinking and stronger delegation.   This episode also touches on the importance of understanding how you work, having honest conversations, and decluttering not just your inbox, but your diary and mental load too, a particularly timely theme at this point in the year.   Julie and Sarah talk about: Moving from manager to board director and the challenges that come with it How imposter syndrome shows up at senior levels, and why it doesn't always go away The role coaching played in building confidence and self-awareness Learning how to delegate without feeling like you're losing control Practical tools for handling difficult conversations Why understanding your own working style helps you lead others more effectively Creating space for strategic thinking by decluttering diaries, inboxes and habits How small, simple techniques can create long-term leadership change   This is a warm, insightful conversation for anyone stepping into greater responsibility, navigating self-doubt, or looking to lead with more clarity and confidence.   Resources Mentioned in This Episode   Mindset: The New Psychology of Success (book) Carol Dweck Carol Dweck's TED Talk on Growth Mindset The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People (book) Stephen Covey The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teenagers Sean Covey Myers-Briggs Type Indicator (MBTI)   Henley Business School Interested in a career in coaching? Find out about the Professional Certificate 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

    34 min
  8. S2 EP3: To Plan or Not to Plan? That Is the Question...

    12/10/2025

    S2 EP3: To Plan or Not to Plan? That Is the Question...

    Host: Julie Williams MSc- Executive Coach & Founder of Lighting Fires Guest: Alex Weller- Founder of Above Digital In this episode of The Lighting Fires Podcast, supported by Henley Business School, Julie sits down with Alex Weller, founder of Above Digital, whose career spans more than 30 years of evolving brands and building digital experiences, from early work with Universal Music and PepsiCo to today's bespoke websites and branding projects. Alex describes himself as someone who never liked planning, and for a long time avoided it. Yet through coaching, reflection, and a shift in mindset, he discovered how simple planning, can be transformative. Their conversation explores the tension between wanting freedom and needing structure, why business owners often resist planning, and how Alex found a way of doing it that finally worked for him. Julie and Alex talk about: The pressure of running a business when you're the person responsible for everything How creating small pockets of time and space is essential for new ideas and long-term thinking Why planning doesn't have to be complicated, and can actually feel grounding The unexpected ways coaching continues to shape decisions years after the sessions finish How to identify the clients you're best placed to serve Why keeping simple notes about your business journey becomes a powerful tool for future planning The importance of understanding your own preferences when shaping how you lead   Alex reflects on the pivotal realisation that even when plans feel "pie in the sky," writing things down gives you something valuable to look back on, a narrative of your business that helps you make sense of where you've been and where you want to go next. Julie also shares coaching insights on finding focus, noticing what's working, creating space to think, and building a plan that feels motivating rather than overwhelming. Whether you love planning, avoid it, or feel stuck somewhere in between, this conversation offers fresh perspective on how to steer your business with more clarity, confidence, and ease. Henley Business School Interested in a career in coaching? Find out about the Professional Certificate 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 enjoyed this episode, please leave a five star rating and review, it helps more listeners find these real-world leadership tools and stories.

    48 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
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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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