Growth Stories in Progress

Melis Parmaksiz

Stories that inspire. Voices that matter. A business podcast that uplifts. We showcase the journeys of leaders through our podcast, newsletter, and engaged community. Our media platform celebrates the humanity behind success while fostering meaningful connections and purposeful leadership.

Episodes

  1. 09/23/2025

    The Importance of Personal Styling for Leaders with Neelam Mistry-Thaker - Unlocking Personal Styling to Gain Confidence

    Have you ever wondered when choosing your outfits, why some colours make you glow while others wash you out? Or why certain colours can affect how people perceive you in meetings, interviews or even influence your own mood? Probably you’ve heard that it’s recommended to choose a blue shirt when going to an interview instead of a red one. Today’s guest is a talented expert in her field, helping professionals to unlock opportunities by understanding the dynamics of our style, colour choices and their impact. If you think it’s time to change your style, this episode will be extremely helpful. Welcome to Growth Stories in Progress. You are listening to our first season, Uplifting Leaders, with the UK’s purposeful leaders and entrepreneurs. Our guest is Neelam Mistry-Thaker from London. Let’s dive in.

  2. 08/14/2025

    This Founder’s Way of Thinking and Search for Purpose Led to a Life of Leadership in Communications

    In this episode of Growth Stories in Progress, we sit down with Neil Rodger, Founder of Lifted Communications and former Head of Communications at UCL. With decades of marketing expertise and a career that began in a completely different field, Neil’s journey proves it’s never too late to reinvent yourself. While working in a retail store, Neil began asking himself: Is this all there is for me? That question sparked a bold career move, opening unexpected doors and ultimately leading him into senior leadership roles. Today, he helps organisations connect with purpose, both internally and externally, using the clarity and strategic insight he’s honed over the years. In this conversation, Neil shares the pivotal moments that shaped his career, the risks he took in leaving a secure leadership role, and the truths he’s discovered about leadership, communication, and resilience. Expect insights on: The importance of chasing opportunities when it feels rightWhy saying “yes” to tasks others avoid can transform your career.The hidden pressures of being a business owner.How to lead with vision and clarity in uncertain times, by knowing your values in life.Whether you’re a business owner, a professional considering a career pivot, or someone seeking more purpose in your work, Neil’s story will inspire you to take the leap, with strategy, courage, and connection at the heart of it.

  3. 07/17/2025

    The Career Move That Changed Everything: This Leader is an Investment Powerhouse with Many Career Lessons, with Fabrizio Boaron

    In this episode, I sit down with Fabrizio Boaron, an investment banker, entrepreneur, and inspiring thinker, to uncover the mindset behind a three-decade-long career in finance. From his early start in Silicon Valley to building his business in the UK, Fabrizio shares hard-won lessons on leadership, career pivots, and resilience. If you're navigating your own professional journey, this episode is full of practical wisdom, and a refreshing take on what really matters in long-term success. We've unlocked: How Fabrizio’s journey began: from the 90s to leadership and entrepreneurship.His shift from Silicon Valley to finance in London. Navigating a career without mentorship or guidance. One piece of advice he wishes someone had told him earlier. What younger professionals often misunderstand How he identifies future leaders among young talent. The traits that actually get people promoted (spoiler: not just hard work). A belief about leadership he held 10–15 years ago that he now completely disagrees with. The mindset Fabrizio taps into when things go wrong. What part of him shows up under pressure—and why. What his younger self would be shocked to see about how he leads today. The most important career moment, whether it worked or didn’t. What he’s building five years from now and who it’s for. 🎧 What We Cover in This Podcast Episode: Foundations & Early Career, Hard Lessons & Career Advice, Leadership Philosophy, Resilience & Self-Awareness, Reflection and Legacy.

  4. 07/03/2025

    Blending Decades of Leadership Experience in Big-Tech with AI , This Leader Reveals Why Your Differences are Your Greatest Superpower - and How to Turn Them to Your Advantage - with Wenceslyne Ong

    Today’s guest, Wenceslyne Ong, the Founder of Elite Lvl Services headquartered in London, has spent two decades climbing the ranks of tech - holding senior roles at Google, Rackspace, and other global companies as Head of Operations. But behind every promotion was a deeper story of grit, resilience, reinvention, and eventually… a leap into entrepreneurship.In this episode, she shares: How she has learned embracing differencesHow relocation has shaped her lifeHow she has learned embracing differencesPositive mindset can unlock opportunities and challenges in life can be your key into this explorationWhy staying calm in chaos isn’t a trait - it’s a skill that you can learnWhat women really need to know about breaking into tech leadershipPlease don't forget to leave a comment, hit the follow button and rate our show! Thank you.

  5. 06/19/2025

    How to Build a Standout Brand in 2025 – And the Strategy That Sets Startups Apart with Eddie Webb, Founder of OhSo Studio

    What really makes a brand sell? In this episode, I’m joined by Eddie Webb, founder of Oh So Studio and a seasoned brand strategist who helps companies stop blending in and start standing out. We break down the myths around startup and personal branding - why logos aren't enough, why founders must show up on socials, and how authentic and bold storytelling is must have. Eddie shares insights from years in the creative trenches, including: How great design gives clarity and drives revenueWhy being skeptical about your marketing spend is a good thing.The power of doing things differently (and why most brands play it too safe)Why founders who share their story build trust fasterIf you're building a business or a personal brand and want a brand that actually sells, this episode is your blueprint.

  6. 06/03/2025

    The Future of Leadership: Adapting to Change and Leading with Purpose - Here’s How to Find Greatness As A Leader - with Steve Barrett

    Leadership isn’t what it used to be, and today’s most successful leaders know that authenticity, empathy, and adaptability are non-negotiable. In this episode of Growth Stories in Progress, we sit down with Steve Barrett, founder of Black Flag Coaching and former senior leader. Steve shares what it takes to lead in a world defined by constant change - from managing conflict and layoffs to hiring the right people and navigating career transitions with clarity and courage. You’ll learn: The silent risks of unspoken workplace conflict—and how to address them with purpose Why empathetic offboarding is a leadership power move The real role of a leader during layoffs (hint: it’s not false reassurance) How to lead with strengths—and why recognition drives performance What entrepreneurs must know about navigating uncertainty, building a network, and letting go of ego The mindset shift that is needed when moving from corporate to self-employment. Living abroad with our spouses and the best motivational advice during difficult times. Steve brings hard-won insights, gained from 30 years of work experience, and practical advice for anyone who wants to lead not just with authority, but with meaning. If you’re a founder, manager, or future leader hungry for growth, purpose, and lasting impact, this conversation is for you. Our take? Change is inevitable. Growth is intentional. This episode is a must-listen for founders, people managers, and forward-thinking leaders who know that great leadership starts with putting people first—even when the path ahead is uncertain. 🎧 Tune in and discover why leading with clarity, care, and courage is more than a strategy—it’s the future. Welcome to Growth Stories in Progress, where we celebrate the remarkable journeys of leaders and visionaries shaping the business world. Our platform is dedicated to uplifting those who lead with empathy, passion, and purpose. In each episode, we explore the stories of Uplifting Leaders with decades of experience in leadership. Whether you’re a senior professional, entrepreneur, or an aspiring leader, tune in to discover how compassion and innovation come together to create lasting impact.

  7. 05/22/2025

    This Leader Explains The Truth Behind The Communication Mistakes That Cost You and How To Navigate Conflicts - with Amy Combrinck

    What if one small shift in how you communicate could unlock a pay rise, open new opportunities, and land the resources you need?Do you really understand how people perceive leadership -and how that affects your impact? 🎙️ In this week’s episode of Growth Stories in Progress, I sit down with Amy Combrinck, founder of Fireflying Ltd, who brings 17 years of experience in digital media and tech to challenge everything you think you know about communication. “Communication isn’t about talking. It’s about impact - and knowing when not to talk.” — Amy Communication is at the heart of influence, leadership, and growth. It’s how we build trust, shift mindsets, and move people - yet many professionals still struggle to connect with internal and external stakeholders. The truth? Poor communication silently costs us opportunities every single day. One misstep can derail a pitch, a promotion conversation, or even a make-or-break investor meeting. Amy is a former tech sales expert turned Founder, performance coach, and public speaker. In this powerful episode, she shares actionable insights to help you lead with clarity and connect with purpose. Listen to learn: How to position yourself for career-changing conversationsThe common mistakes that dilute your influence - and how to fix themWhy human-first communication is your biggest advantageHow DISC can help you better understand and engage with different communication stylesIf you're in search of resources about personal and professional growth, this is the episode you’ve been waiting for.

  8. 05/07/2025 ·  Bonus

    From Numbers to Narratives, This Data Scientist Has Shaped His Career by Focusing on Growth! Product Leadership is About More Than Just Features. (Community Spotlight Bonus Episode)

    You're listening to a Growth Stories: Community Spotlight - where we shine a light on the people behind the purpose. In this special less than 10-minute episode - we’re joined by Shaunak Sirodaria, a London-based product leader with roots in mathematics and data science. From numbers to narratives, Shaunak shares how he's shaped his career, what drives his growth, and why product leadership is about more than just features, it's about people, clarity, and purpose. Let’s dive in.

    From Numbers to Narratives, This Data Scientist Has Shaped His Career by Focusing on Growth! Product Leadership is About More Than Just Features. (Community Spotlight Bonus Episode)
  • 8 Episodes

About

Stories that inspire. Voices that matter. A business podcast that uplifts. We showcase the journeys of leaders through our podcast, newsletter, and engaged community. Our media platform celebrates the humanity behind success while fostering meaningful connections and purposeful leadership.

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