Lorraine, Viv, Cheryl and Emma

What a pleasure it was to have the opportunity to interview three wonderful women from Yammer, as part of the Female leaders in the City series. They shared their journey to date and passion working for dynamic organisation such as Yammer – almost rivalling mine for Dream Corner! Loved it as I know you will – Interview with Yammer female leaders

More about:
Cheryl
Cheryl is Yammer’s Global IT Director, responsible for all aspect of IT infrastructure. She also manages a global support team in London, San Francisco and New York. Prior to working for Yammer, Cheryl has 10 years experience working for companies such as the BBC, Apple and News International. In 2005, she became the 1st female MAC genius at Apple.

Lorraine
Lorraine is the Inside Sales Manager and is responsible for the multi lingual team, ensuring that small sized businesses understand the value of Yammer and can leverage it to its full potential. Lorraine has 20 years experience in Sales & Marketing with many FSTE 100 brands in IT, Financial services, Utilities and Telecoms in EMEA and Asia.

Emma
Emma is the Associate Customer Success Manager, and helps organisations get the most of opportunities Yammer provides for improving internal communications and business effectiveness. Emma has held Sales roles in Spain, Mexico, Israel and Angola. She also previously worked for MedTRACK, a leading online business intelligence service for the Pharma industry.
Find out about Yammer here - www.yammer.com

Viv and Dianna Bonner

Fab interview with Dianna! We talked about her journey starting out as a photographer to creating a very successful nationwide photography business. She’s excited about her new venture targeted at women in business which she’s launching later on this year. Listen in here – Interview with Dianna Bonner

More about Dianna
Dianna has a successful nationwide photography and video business, specialising in Headshots, Speaker Events and Food photography. Her clients include Richard Branson, Bob Geldof and Jamie Oliver. Find out more – www.worldvisionphotos.co.uk

Penny Jackson

Finally got to meet and interview Penny after a couple months of getting our diaries to sync – and it was certainly worth the wait! We talk about her early career at the BBC, into social media and video making. I felt I was meeting up with a friend and there just happened to be a microphone! Listen in – Interview with Penny Jackson

More about Penny
Penny is a presenter, social journalist and an award winning film maker of Social Media content. She creates films, tailored to business needs, and are designed to be effective on their website. She learnt all her craft working for the BBC for 15 years, producing radio programmes. Find out more – www.pennyjackson.co.uk

Patty Cruz and Viv

I got to meet Patty at Thrive 2013, and when she told me about her business Organised and Simple, I thought it would be interesting to hear more about it and her journey to setting it up. It’s great to see and interview women running a range businesses. Listen in here – Interview with Patty Cruz.

More about Patty
Patty is the founder of Organised and Simple, where she helps businesses and homes who find clutter overwhelming. Prior to setting up Organised and Simple, she worked in the financial sector as a Management Consultant and Business Finance Manager for companies such as IBM and Barclays Capital. Find out more – www.organisedandsimple.com

Viv and Niki Schafer

What a fab day of interviews Niki started for me! We could have talked for ages! Niki shared her journey from Advertising in London and New York, to finally finding her bliss with Interior Design. She set up her own business Dwell-Being, and has written a book. Loved every minute of this interview and you can hear me chuckling right through it! Interview with Niki Schafer

More about Niki
Niki is an expert in home and lifestyle design and the founder of Dwell-Being Interior Design. She started her career working in advertising in London and New York for organisations such as the BBC, Unilever, Rowntree Nestle, Washington Post. She also trained as an NLP coach and last year volunteered last year as part of Tony Robbins crew.

Niki is also the author of Creating Space – a step by step guide to designing a happy family home.

Katie Young

One of the best things during an interview is discovering something new about my guest! I found out Katie actually owns and runs her own vintage fashion label – Forever Young, and has done so for the last 9 years! We also talked about her other strings to her bow – the other businesses she runs. Fascinating journey! Listen in here – Interview with Katie Young

More about Katie
Katie runs a product development and sourcing consultancy for luxury labels and global consumer brands, with an expertise in bespoke design to manufacture for ladies wear, called Katie Young Design. She also is an Independent Consultant and Executive Area Manager for Arbornne, who create skincare, anti-ageing, nutrition, cosmetic and aromatherapy products. Find out more here – www.katieyoungdesign.com

Nina Vanneck

Another fab interview with a female leader in the City. Nina talked about her relocation to the UK from Australia and how she’s grown her career to working at Google. She is passionate about supporting women succeed at work and shares valuable advice for women looking for their ideal or dream job. Listen in here – Interview with Nina Vanneck

More about Nina
Nina is an online media all-rounder. She has worked in the digital media space since 2000 in a mixture of programming, channel management, business development, account management, research and advertising strategy roles.

As senior sales lead, Partner Business Solutions (PBS), she manages Google’s commercial relationships with the BBC, News International, the Financial Times, The Telegraph, amongst others. Prior to Google, she had gained experience working on both the programming and sales strategy sides of online media businesses for companies such as AOL, Yahoo!, Fairfax & News International.

Viv and Sarah Wood

What a fab interview I had with Sarah – loved every minute of it! Honestly I have the best job – for me! Sarah talked about her journey from Academia to setting up Unruly Media with two of her co-founders; and listed as one of the best organisations to work for by The Times. You’ll love it as much as I did – I promise! Interview with Sarah Wood

More about Sarah
Sarah is co-founder and COO of Unruly Media – a video technology company; and she’s responsible for ensuring Unruly delivers the best video campaigns on the planet. She organizes an MPhil course in Online Video Culture at the University of Cambridge and was voted UK Female Entrepreneur of the Year 2012. She spends way too much time watching clips on the Viral Video Chart with her kids. Find out more – www.unrulymedia.com

Anne Jensen Chatroux

Very interesting interview with Anne! We talked about the start of her career in Investment Banking to Consulting and setting up her executive coaching practice. We also got to talk about ‘Lean In’ by Sheryl Sandberg. Listen in here – Interview with Anne Jensen Chatroux

More about Anne
Anne is an Executive coach/partner, and has spent more than 15 years working with executives from large multinationals like BP and Fujitsu to smaller, family founded enterprises and charities. She started her career as an Investment banker, and went on to Consultancy. Find out more here – www.annechatroux.com

Gerlinde Gniewosz

Another fab interview with a woman in Tech! I heard Gerlinde speak at a Women 2.0 event – she was funny, knowledge and very ‘matter of fact’ about journey to setting up KO-SU, which is most impressive! Listen in here – Interview with Gerlinde Gneiwosz

More about Gerlinde
Gerlinde is the founder of KO-SU, an innovative mobile learning platform open to everyone and anyone who wants to teach and learn via mobile devices. It can be used by individuals, schools, small businesses and large corporates alike. Prior to setting up KO-SU, she worked for companies such as Orange, Yahoo! and AOL. FInd out more here – www.ko-su.com

I like to think I’m pretty easy going….it really does take a lot to make me angry; and anger can be such a waste of emotion – sometimes. However, recent events over the last few days, got me angry – I guess more with myself than the subjects of my annoyance, and I think that’s worse!

I wonder how many of you offer a ‘free’ service or product – sometimes or all of the time? How do you know if people who take up value your free offer or take it (or you) for granted? For those who take it for granted, how does that make you feel? Angry? Upset? Or you don’t care either way? If you could answer this question, then I would love to hear from you!

If you’ve been following me and my journey with Dream Corner, you’d know that I interview female entrepreneurs for free. I achieved my dream of being a radio presenter so never really felt comfortable ‘charging’ women to feature on the show.

Occasionally people have thought there was a cost to coming on, and I was always quick to dispel that notion. Over the last year, various ‘business model’ suggestions were offered on how I could make money, and I dismissed them all. More recently – the last 2-3 months, some dear friends have asked, challenged and badgered me (bless them), about my ‘free’ stance; and I started ‘warming’ to the idea, but still didn’t commit to actually doing anything about it!

But that’s about to change and I’ll explain!

I’ve always said my biggest challenge running the show is a last minute cancellation from a guest. Some cancellations are beyond their control, but others quite frankly are damn right insulting!

As much as I love doing what I do, I find it utterly disrespectful to me and my show that people will cancel on the day of an interview (with no valid reason!); and or wait for me to confirm an interview (usually by sending notes), and then let me know they are unable to come in for the interview! Surely they would have known ahead of my email they couldn’t come in? Is common and simple courtesy out the window or am I taking this personally??? I mean, is there any other way I should view such bad behaviour, but personal???

This week in particular I have felt a punch in my gut and a slap on my face! Yeah, I know a bit dramatic, but I am saying as it is for ME! I guess I’m naive in believing that people would treat me the way I treat them. That may be the case majority of the time, but when some people show the distasteful side of the human race, it stings! I guess I’m too sensitive! But I will NOT apologise for that!

The trouble with FREE is some people by their nature will never value free! When you value something or someone, you don’t take it or them for granted. Truth is, I’d rather interview women who value my time, my expertise and company, rather than others who think they are either doing me a favour, and or don’t consider cancelling at such short notice a ‘big deal’!

Dream Corner is for women of all ages, but I’ve come to realise it really isn’t for everyone – and that’s not a bad thing!

Henceforth Dream Corner will NO longer be a free service. Those who value it and are willing to pay, are always welcome. I simply refuse for badly behaved people to feature on my show! Ever again!

Sarah Davison

One of the best parts of my job is learning new things! I got to hear about Homeopathy and Sarah’s very interesting journey from International sales to becoming a facilitator and then a professional homeopath. Listen in here – Interview with Sarah Davison

More about Sarah
Sarah is a professional Homeopath and Career coach who uses homeopathy to work and restore clients’ health, vitality and emotional well-being; and Career coaching to help clients to choose a new career, that really motivates and fulfills them. Find out more here - www.thrivehomeopathy.com

Danielle Marchant and Viv

It was great to finally meet Danielle, and I loved my interview with her! I really enjoyed hearing her talk about her career journey and going to the Far East to set up and run a coaching business; and then relocating back to the UK. She also shared some useful tips about picking a coach. Listen in here – Interview with Danielle Marchant.

More about Danielle
Danielle has been an international, board level executive coach, consultant and facilitator for more than 18 years. She has worked with leaders in 20 different countries for brands such as Unilever, Tesco, Thomson-Reuters, Kraft, HSBC and InterContinental Hotel Group. Find out more here – www.enablingevolution.com

Michelle Hawkins

I never stop being amazed at how people come to do what they do. Michelle got ‘hooked’ on happiness while working in Tanzania! Listen in to my fascinating interview with her as we talk about happiness and the impact it has on the business. Interview with Michelle Hawkins

More about Michelle
Michelle Hawkins, the founder of the Flying Dodo. She has over a decade of experience in marketing, market research and consumer psychology. She has worked across industries and sectors including consulting, FMCG, healthcare and hospitality. Prior to launching the Flying Dodo, she spent 4 years working in luxury hotels and was latterly Head of Sales and Marketing for a 5* hotel in Tanzania. FInd out more here – www.theflyingdodo.com

Kate Taylor and Viv

I sat next to Kate twice at the Thrive conference, but it was the 2nd time we struck up conversation. When I heard she was starting her coaching consultancy as well working part-time within the creative sector, I wanted to hear all about her journey to making that decision. Listen in here – Interview with Kate Taylor

More about Kate
Kate is an Account Director at a London Digital agency, leading strategy and project delivery for brands such as Bobbi Brown, Hotel Chocolat and Games Workshop. Previous brands included Innocent Drinks, Ryvita, Jordan Cereals and The Body Shop. She has recently re-trained as a coach to work with women within the creative sector, where she feels and knows they need support.

Stina Richardson

I’d never heard of Hypnobirthing until I was introduced to Stina; and our interview was very enlightening! Stina talks about her journey from being a nutritionist to training in Body Memory Therapy, Hypnobirthing and as a Doula. Listen in here – Interview with Stina Richardson

More about Stina
Stina is the founder of Sol Holistic Health. She’s a trained Nutritionist; but now works on Body Memory Therapy and Hypnobirthing in her clinic based in Central London. Find out more here – www.antenatalclasslondon.com

Katie Waistell

I know it’s terrible to say I enjoyed my interview with Katie – we talked about her harrowing experience being in a bullying relationship for over 10 years. She was so open and giving in the interview that I almost felt it happened to someone else! Katie was SO easy to interview and hearing how happy she is now brought joy to my heart! Nothing like the human spirit triumph over adversity!. Fascinating interview!!! Listen in here – Interview with Katie Waistell

More about Katie
Katie is the author of the ‘How To leave a bully’ – a step by step guide of how to leave an abusive relationship and make a new start. The book is based on Katie’s personal experience and how she’s managed to rebuild her life. Find out more here – www.howtoleaveabully.co.uk

Jennifer Sheridan

Fantastic interview with Jennifer! She really is one of the nicest women I have interviewed and I have interviewed many! She completely deserves winning her recent FDM everywoman in technology ‘Entrepreneur of the year’ 2013 award. The panel were impressed by how she uses her own experience and entrepreneurial spirit to support other women. Listen into our interview and you’ll see what I mean – Interview with Jennifer Sheridan

More about Jennifer
Jennifer is the founder and CEO of Togeva – a unique Live Sharing™ Platform and API for mobile devices that allows people to create and share digital content. Find out more here – www.togeva.com

Photo by Steve Dunlop Photography

Felix Macintosh

You only have to listen to our interview to know how well Felix and I got on!! We chatted away for over an hour before we finally got round to recording – love it when that happens! Felix shares her journey from being a Bass player to setting up her Audio business and supporting female singers and musicians. Listen in here – Interview with Felix Macintosh.

More about Felix
Felix is a musician – bassplayer and composer and her music has been featured on national radio, tv and films. She is director at Tigersonic – a recording studio for independent musicians she also makes video, and provides hi-end recording services for for solopreneurs and coaches including podcasts and audio products. You can find out more here – www.tigersonic.com

Completely enjoying my series on Female leaders in the City – interviews with amazing women like Sheila is just one reason. Listening to Sheila’s drive from humble beginnings as the driving force for pursuing and achieving her career success to date, is inspiring. Listen in here – Interview with Sheila Flavell

More about Sheila
Sheila is part owner of FDM Group – a leading IT services provider working with over 200 clients worldwide. She spearheads their global women in IT initiative, which encourages more women to pursue a career IT and helps those in the industry to progress to the boardroom. In 2012, she was awarded ‘Leader of the Year in a Corporate Organisation’ at the Cisco everywoman in Technology Awards. Find about about FDM Group here – www.fdmgroup.com

Paula MacArthur and Viv

Another fabulous interview on Dream Corner! I finally got to meet and interview the lovely Paula – certainly worth the wait! Really interesting to hear more about how Masterminds work, the power of them; and how she set up the Mastermind Agency – all great stuff! Listen in here – Interview with Paula MacArthur

More about Paula
Paula is passionate about connecting clever people and helping them to form Mastermind Groups. At the Mastermind agency, each group is led by an accomplished Expert, where they can massively accelerate achievement of their goals using the power of collaborative learning. Her passion, combined with over 20 years Marketing and Event management experience led her to set up the Mastermind Agency. Find out more – www.themastermindagency.co.uk

Cynthia Akinsanya and Viv

It was lovely to sit down and chat with Cynthia about her journey to setting up her baking business back in 2005; and also hear about her new service – Baking for boys. Listen in to why she’s targeting them – Interview with Cynthia Akinsanya

More about Cynthia
Cynthia started her business Delights By Cynthia in 2005 creating cakes for celebrations, weddings, gifts, corporate events, or just for your personal indulgence. In 2012, she won Small Business of the Year by Camden and Islington Business Awards. She spends part of her time supporting and encouraging other budding entrepreneurs and their business dreams. Find out more – www.delightsbycynthia.com

Viv and Sherry Bevan

I can’t begin to tell you how much I enjoyed my interview with Sherry – I loved it! It’s always such a pleasure to discover things about my guests during our interview. We talked about her preparation for the Brighton Marathon and her illustrious career before she set up her business. Listen in here and be inspired – Interview with Sherry Bevan

More about Sherry
Sherry is an experienced senior IT manager with 25 years’ experience in professional services. Background is primarily leadership, customer service, relationship management, change management, service delivery, project management and application support. Now working as an independent Consultant helping organisations achieve success and manage change, for example during technology rollouts, office relocations, or organisational restructures. You can find out more here – www.sherrybevan.co.uk

Catherine Stagg-Macey

I’d been looking forward to my interview with Catherine, being the 1st person on the Female leaders in the City series going off to become an entrepreneur! Catherine is on her way to starting a new career as an Executive coach in a couple of months. It was great to hear her journey moving to London from South Africa and growing her career to being a SVP. Listen in here – Interview with Catherine Stagg-Macey

More about Catherine
Catherine is currently a VP at an International Management Consultancy. She started her career as a Project Manager, and rising to senior levels in organisations such as KPMG and Marsh. She has also worked as a consultant with smaller software companies validating their strategy around new market entry. She is a mentor at the Cherie Blair Foundation; and looking forward to setting up her own practice as a Coach within the Tech sector.

Jessica Rathke and VIv

What a fabulous interview I had with Jessica! I love her sense of humour (we laughed a lot!); and hearing about taking the risk to finally starting her business in localisation sales. Lots of useful and interesting stuff shared; listen in here – Interview with Jessica Rathke

More about Jessica
Jessica is the founder of L10N, a Sales and Training consultancy that helps language companies improve sales performance and increase revenues. Jessica’s 20 years experience has spanned sales, sales management and marketing working across the USA and Europe for leading businesses, mid-tier and start-up language service providers. Find out more here – www.l10nsalesandmarketing.com

Barbara Scalera and Viv

Another fascinating interview on Dream Corner; I enjoyed hearing Barbara’s story to moving to the UK from the States and her journey to setting up as a Coach and Therapist after 20 years in the wine industry. She breaks down some myths I think we may have about therapy…very interesting and useful stuff shared. Listen in here – Interview with Barbara Scalera.

More about Barbara
Barbara is the founder of Transform your Life Coaching and Therapy. She is a NLP practitioner and has been trained by and certified in well known therapy techniques. She also has over 20 years corporate experience working on developing peoples’ personal and professional growth. She is a sought after public speaker on image development. Find out more – www.transformyourlifecoaching.co.uk

Sharon Simpson and Viv

I interviewed Sharon back in 2011 when she ran her consultancy supporting women; and seeing she had changed direction when I recently bumped into her; I knew it was time for a catch up. She’s gone back to her true love – photography; and as you listen in to our interview, you’ll love hearing it all as much as I did – Interview with Sharon Simpson

More about Sharon
Sharon specialises in boudoir photography. She create an experience where women feel beautiful, sexy, sensual and valued. She believes boudoir allows anyone to unwrap their sensuality, to peel away the layers of the outer we present to the world and connect with our powerful, unconventional, daring energy. Find out more here – www.sharonsimpson.co.uk

Francesca Lubenko

I had booked to interview Francesca early January, and I’d to reschedule…and after a couple more reschedules, we finally got to have our interview! I was fascinated to hear how a trained Concert Pianist makes the leap to Management Consulting and then to running her own business. Listen in to how it all changed for Francesca – Interview with Francesca Lubenko

More about Francesca
Francesca, a trained concert pianist, is the founder of Eastwind Business Development, a consultancy working with businesses and individuals to develop their client portfolios and the associated business skills that go with developing successful, flourishing, profitable client relationships. Find out more – www.eastwindbd.com

More about Nooshin
Nooshin is the founder of Nooshin London, a collection of women’s classic tailoring clothes of elegant styles that transcend seasons. Nooshin uses only the highest quality wools sourced from Savile Row cloth merchants ensuring that every dress fits beautifully, and is long lasting, and completes a smart, elegant and professional look. Find out more – www.nooshin.co.uk

Soila Sindiyo and Viv

It was great to catch up with Soila again – almost 18 months on from our 1st interview. Wonderful to hear her journey to her new venture and passion as a Divorce companion….apparently I played a part in this. Listen in here, and all is revealed - Interview with Soila Sindiyo

More about Soila

Soila is as a divorce companion and Family Mediator, helping families recover and mend from the family breakdown. She has lots of training in working with families and children of trauma including (Cognitive Behaviour Therapy (CBT), Eye Movement Desensitiasation Reprocessing (EMDR), Traumatic Incident Reduction (TIR) and others.  She is also accredited with Triple P (Positive Parenting Program) practitioner and have training in Mellow Parenting as well as Narrative Story Stems. Find out more – www.soila.co.uk

Kate Jackson and Viv

What an awesome interview I had with Kate! Honestly it’s such a thrill to interview women in Tech! I’m inspired seeing women thriving in this sector! I love the Table Crowd concept and can see why it’s such a success! Listen in to Kate talk about leaving her law career behind to become an entrepreneur. Interview with Kate Jackson

More about Kate
Kate is one of the co-founders of Table Crowd; a new way to dine, and meet new people who share similar interests. Find out more – www.tablecrowd.com

I’d been looking forward to my interview Jacqueline Burns, co founder of the London Writers’ Club for months! She’s one busy lady; but it certainly was worth the wait – loved every minute of it! Jacq made me laugh as she shared her journey to being a sought after Literary agent and Publishing Consultant – my words not hers; she’s far too modest to blow her trumpet!! Listen in to us talk writing, publishing and much more – Interview with Jacq Burns

More about Jacq
Jacq is an author, a literary agent and Publishing Consultant. She’s the co-founder of The London’s Writer’s Club. Prior to setting it up with Kirsty MacLaclan, she was a commissioning editor at Random House and Editorial director at Harper Collins. Find out more – www.londonwritersclub.com

Kemi Osinloye

Had a great time interviewing Kemi, co-founder of Brides of Culture, and listening to how she and her business partner and sister-in-law Abi, have steadily grown their business to what it is. I don’t think I’ll ever stop being amazed how women juggle raising a young family, running a business and having a part-time job all at the same time! Listen in - Interview with Kemi Osinloye

More about Kemi
Kemi is the co-founder of Brides of Culture, who host one of the largest multi-cultural wedding exhibitions in London as well as offer wedding advice to a wide ethnic diverse communities. Find out more – www.bridesofculture.com

Viv and Hazel Chawapiwa

Had an interesting time interviewing Hazel. She shared her passion and desire to give back to women with her Inspire Network; after receiving support during her own trials. Listen in here – Interview with Hazel Chawapiwa

More about Hazel
Hazel is the founder of 2Inspire Network created to empower and support women to realise their potential. It is an organisation that brings together a wealth of expertise, like minds and collaborative opportunities. Professionals in the network come together to build connections across sectors and influence change for other women. Find out more – www.2inspirenetwork.com

Julia Fuller

Everyone should listen to my fabulous interview with Julia Fuller! Interviews like hers on the Female leaders series confirm that these interviews should be more widespread. Julia shares some nuggets that everyone can learn from; so please make some tea,  sit back and enjoy this one, I promise you won’t be disappointed. Interview with Julia Fuller

More about Julia
Julia is the lead for Diversity and Inclusion for one of the global news and information companies. She is the co-founder and Chair of Women on the Wharf, a growing network of financial and professional services. Having been with the organisation for over 25 years, she is taking redundancy in the coming months, but looking forward to new challenges.

Viv and Amanda Rabor

What a wonderful effortless interview I had with Amanda! Interviewing is brilliant – I love it; but the wonderful by-product of that, are the amazing connections I make with so many amazing women who share themselves and who they are. I loved Amanda’s honesty about her journey to setting up and running Isossy Children – you’ll too. Listen in here – Interview with Amanda Rabor

More about Amanda
Amanda is the founder of Issosy Children, an online clothing brand for children; where they use African and Asian textiles to create a contemporary range of clothes for boys and girls.

I don’t mind sounding like a broken record when I talk about how much I love my job – I can’t help it, I’m afraid! I get to meet and interview women like Temi who just want to make a difference in people’s lives – help them identify their passion; amazing right? Listen in to how she found hers – Interview with Temi Koleowo

More about Temi
Temi is the founder of Business 1st Steps, a consultancy designed to help people discover their passion and develop their ideas into a business they will love and enjoy. You can find out more here – www.businessfirststeps.co.uk

When I started Dream Corner, I only saw it as vehicle for female entrepreneurs – mostly because that’s where I had come – being an entrepreneur I mean. But as the show has grown, and time has gone on, I have come to realise that there is a life outside of entrepreneurship; and there are so many inspiring career women who have achieved success who are not entrepreneurs or plan to be one.

Late last year, I decided I wanted to start a series to showcase female leaders in the City as I do for entrepreneurs. I didn’t know if anyone would want to take part in it, but the more I thought about, the more excited I got – still am!

I reached out to a few women who had been on Dream Corner who have some links with women in the City and so far , I have interviewed 3 fantastic women with two more scheduled for this month; and being an eternal optimist, I know it will grow and if the women I have interviewed so far are anything to go by, then I am in for a real treat – as I am with the female entrepreneurs I regularly interview! These women are phenomenal!

I had forgotten….My world for the last 7 or so years has been dominated by entrepreneurs and I’d forgotten that I used to work in the Cit – once upon a time and aspired to have a ‘high-flying’ career at one point. I may still have been there if I hadn’t taken that trip to New York – the rest they say is history.

I have come to be equally passionate over the past months to hear female leaders tell their stories. Not everyone is cut out be an entrepreneur – and the way ‘entrepreneurship’ dominates, I feel many young women (and men) may feel bound to go into it without trying out a career in the City or where ever else of their choice. I know I have benefited from taking that route as have many of my guests who taken similar paths. We understand a lot more – have more experience which no doubt stands us in good stead.

So my ambition is to create the largest online audio library of female leaders in the City – not just in London, but in Europe and the States. I know it sounds very ambitious – possibly too ambitious, but I am going to do my best to accomplish it. I know there are women in the City who want to share their journey and inspire younger women and I am hoping – counting on those who share this vision to support me identifying them.

So please, if you know anyone who may be interested in taking part in the series, here’s a bit more information – Female Leaders in the City you could share with them. I will be grateful that you do so – thank you!

And you can listen to two of the three interviews I have done here – Female Leaders Interview series

Helena Sharpstone and Caryn Skinner

Meeting and interviewing Helena and Caryn was awesome for me! Not only are they warm and soooo easy to interview, I love their partnership and could see clearly why after 15 years in business together, they still love working together. Don’t take my word for it, listen in as they talk about their journey and how they work with leaders and teams – Interview with Helena Sharpstone and Caryn Skinner

More about Helena and Caryn
Helena and Caryn are co-founders of Sharpstone Skinner – a consultancy specialising in training and coaching for leadership and team development. They oversee every project, delivering work alongside a small and trusted team and hold themselves accountable for the results; and have been doing so successfully since 1997. You can find out more here – www.sharpstoneskinner.co.uk

The great thing about my job is I get to meet and interview a wide range of women – all with stories to tell and lessons to learn from. One of the many things I enjoyed about my interview with Fikayo was here fearlessness – I need some of that! Listen in and hear her talk about her journey so far! – Interview with Fikayo Giwa

More about Fikayo
Fikayo Giwa, the founder of Simply Kayo Events, the boutique special events company that designs luxury events for the discerning client. Events that go beyond the norm and exceed expectations. Find out more – www.simplykayo.com

Zoe Cunningham

What an awesome interview I had with Zoe! I could and would listen to it over and over again! I loved not just simplicity of it all but all the great nuggets she shared….Everyone should listen to this and realise that we can create the life we wanted. Interview with Zoe Cunningham

More about Zoe
Zoe is the managing director of Softwire Technology. She is passionate about technology – setting up Tech TalkFest and offering her support to Teen Fest. As a tech expert, she regularly contributes to Girl Geek Cheek and Girly Geekdom.

Zoe started her broadcasting career in 2009 hosting the online Backgammon World series in 2009, and has appeared on SkyTV on various occasions. She’s also a radio presenter at Shoreditch Radio, with a show on Music, Arts and Culture. In her spare time, she volunteers for a Ghanaian Charity – Ashanti Development fundraising to bring clean water, micro finance, health and hygiene to the Ashanti region in Ghana. You can find more about Zoe here – www.zoefcunningham.com

I was introduced to Joella by Andrea Paul, who said ‘you two will get along well’ – and get along we did! I loved my interview with Joella, and we could talked for hours! She talked about understanding ‘who you are’ as the basis for everything! Lots more fantastic nuggets shared, and you’d enjoy it as much as I did – Interview with Joella Bruckshaw

More about Joella
Joella is a performance consultant and executive coach. She works especially with women, using personal brand to improve the performance of senior leaders and their potential. She is the author of ‘How to do it – by women who’ve done it: wisdom from women at the top’. Find out more – www.joellabruckshaw.co.uk

Joanna Alpe

I was delighted to finally interview Joanna. When she told me about her new venture MakeLight, I knew she would make a fab guest; and my research confirmed that. Joanna is passionate about the technology and the fusion with creativity. She share her journey to setting two organisations and why she shuttles between London and New Zealand. Listen in here – Interview with Joanna Alpe

More about Joanna
Joanna is the CEO of the multi-award winning We Love Inc, a design/brand strategy consultancy which she founded in 2008. She is also the co founder/Creative Director of Makelight, a mobile device platform for live events.

She’s a champion for creative technologies in all it’s many forms, and this pursuit sees her travelling the globe, generating ideas and building teams around them – she’s always looking for new ways to develop and support this emerging design industry. Clients include Sony Music UK, UBS Bank, Vodafone, Westpac NZ, World Vision and more. She her time between New Zealand and London. Find out more – www.weloveinc.com

Yvonne and I met through TEDxEuston and when she told me what she did, I wanted to interview her. Imagine my pleasant surprise when I found out the various pies she has her fingers in! Yvonne was such a delight to interview! Sit back, relax and enjoy our wonderful interview, as Yvonne shares her journey to date, and why being a serial entrepreneur is not a bad thing – Interview with Yvonne Mbanefo.

More about Yvonne
Yvonne is a serial entrepreneur – a self confessed digital addict, with a lot of experience in online and self publishing industry, both as an author, and as a consultant. She’s a speaker, part-time lecturer, mum, and businesess include – Learn Igbo Now – www.learnigbonow.com and The Igbo Dictonary Project (Kwadoigbo) – www.kwadoigbo.com

Viv and Pat Wood

The photo above was taken when Pat and I met for the 1st time at the Every Woman’s Awards in December 2012. We were so thrilled to bump into each other – we felt we already knew one another after one telephone conversation and a couple of emails. Pat in her 60s, is about to embark on the 2nd phase of her life after over 20 years in Academia! I can’t tell you how much I admire this gutsy woman; and you will too after listening to our interview – Interview with Pat Wood

More about Pat
Pat Wood is an Associate professor and Honorary Researcher for the institute for Cultural industries Peking University and Senior Research Fellow Creative Industries, Global Policy Institute.

She conducts, partners and leads international projects as an entrepreneur, thought leader, keynote speaker, talent mentor, enterprise judge, media commentator, curriculum adviser, external examiner and ministerial consultant in across South East Asia, The Caribbean, Europe and the UK.

Pat has just recently retired from London Metropolitan University where she worked for over 20 years; and is looking forward to the next phase of her life with gusto.

Finally got round to my interview with Janet – been 3 months since we were first in contact. It’s great hearing how people start their journey into business, and Janet’s is interesting. Listening in here – Interview with Janet Brown

More about Janet
Janet has twenty years experience of working with clients on a one to one basis empowering them with tools to change different areas in their lives. She has worked with groups and individuals with mental health problems, ex-offenders and the homeless.

Now she is working as a coach with women in business, helping them obtain and sustain their health and wellbeing. Her main areas are stress management, weight management, relaxation, work/life balance and self esteem and confidence. Find out more here – www.graceforlife.co.uk

Bijna Dasani

The idea behind the Female Leaders in the City series, is to inspire young women starting out their careers to hear about from more established ones and how they’ve built theirs to date. Interviewing Bijna made me realise even younger women in university will also benefit from hearing these interviews! It was such a pleasure to interview Bijna – I barely spoke; and when you listen in, you will understand why! Another fabulous interview – Interview with Bijna Dasani

More about Bijna
Bijna is Vice President at a leading global Investment Bank; where she spends her time between the epitome of the Worlds’ financial hubs; London Wall and Wall Street. She is actively engaged with the firms’ Diversity, Corporate Citizenship and Women’s Networks and has been throughout her career which has progressed through some of the City’s key players to include Credit Suisse, Goldman Sachs, State Street Global Advisors and Deutsche Bank.

Bijna’s personal examples of her successes despite significant challenges and obstacles in her own life enable her to effectively connect with, stimulate, engage and inspire her audiences. She’s contributed to policies for Health, Community Cohesion and has appeared as a speaker/role model to motivate and share her opinions in the press and at industry events.

Bijna was recognised at the International Women’s Day as Young Achiever of the Year (2006), by the Asian Women of Achievement Awards (2010) and most recently recognised as a Positive Role Model for Age at the British National Diversity Awards (2012).

Daphne Kasambala

Met Daphne at the TEDxEuston event last month and it was a pleasure to interview her and her husband Doug there; so I was looking forward to a proper sit down and hear about her business, Sappelle. What a fantastic concept and equally fantastic interview – Listen in here – Interview with Daphne Kasambala

More about Daphne
Daphne took the plunge to focus full time on her business Sapellé after a successful career in Banking and Investment. Sapellé is a stylish, original online boutique, featuring fashion, accessories and home décor from the very best new and established ethical designers and labels from all over Africa. Find out more here - www.sapelle.com

Anne Crossfield

What a lovely way to start the ‘Female Leaders in the City’ series on Dream Corner with an interview with Anne. It was great to hear her talk about the start of her career in Banking before becoming a Barrister; and also what she is looking forward to doing in 2013 and beyond. Listen in here – Interview with Anne Crossfield.

More about Anne
Anne has practiced at the Bar and worked as a lawyer in-house for over 15 years. Previously Anne prosecuted and defended in the criminal courts, and has done a mixture of civil work including personal injury and immigration. She has published work in the financial services field, having previously worked in the City of London as an Equity Broker and in Compliance. In addition, Anne has taught Civil Litigation and Equity Finance on the Legal Practice Course for trainee solicitors.

Jill Tipping

It was great to see Jill again and to hear her talk about her journey from being Police Cardet to her varied career in sales, construction, financial services. One of the many reasons I love my job, is because I learn something new every time – as was certainly the case interviewing Jill. Listen in to all she shares – Interview with Jill Tipping.

More about Jill
Jill is a speaker and published author of the ‘Beyond Fragile Boundaries’. She now runs PR & Marketing running her consultancy Xposure PR working with a range of individal personalities to small businesses. Find out more – www.xposurepr.co.uk

What a brilliant start to the year with an interview with Andrea! I loved hearing how her frustrations of not finding clothes she wanted to wear as a Corporate Lawyer, led to creating her 1st collection for professional women. She also shares some lessons learnt in her relatively short journey in business – all very useful. Listen in here – Interview with Andrea Paul

More about Andrea
Andrea is the founder, C.E.O. and Creative Director of Andrea Paul. Prior to founding Andrea Paul, she worked as a US corporate lawyer in the City of London. Andrea earned her law degree at Harvard Law School. During law school, Andrea served as the Managing Editor of the Harvard Law Review. Find out more here – www.andreapaul.com

What a year 2012 has been – certainly the best one of my life to date. This is not to say I have not had my fair share of challenges (bucket loads), disappointments and failures in equal measure. But all those have eclipsed by the joys, excitement and fulfillment I have experienced.

I remember distinctly – round about this same time last year when I updated my ‘About you’ status on my personal Facebook page; and this is what I said “2011 was a great year, but 2012 is going to be epic! Have my arms open to embrace it all…”. I can’t say I had any idea how ‘epic’ in comparison to 2011 my 2012 would be – who does really?

Here are some highlights (in no significant order):

• 114 shows I wrote, produced and presented
• Piloted a new show – What Makes You Tick
• Featured in the Sunday Telegraph Stella Magazine
• Spoke at 2 events
• Met and interviewed some fabulous women and men
• Started ‘something new’

These are all on a professional basis, and personally it has been amazing as well.

I say a big thank you to Marsha El-Hage and Lorraine Emment who both encouraged me on our show back in March to take up running. I have started and I LOVE it! I find myself running 7 miles at a stretch now! WooHoo!

I finally took the steps to overcome my ‘demons’ – things that had been larking in my life – residues of my childhood; and I have two special ladies to thank for that – Emma Radway-Bright and Shelley Whitehead. I don’t like to ‘air’ my laundry here, and all I would say is I will forever be indebted to them for the warmth, generosity of spirit and friendship.

This led me on to find the courage to interview the amazing Jody Day and subsequently to my blog about being Child Free. If you didn’t get to read it, here’s a link – Being Child Free’. I ‘came’ out as not wanting to have children – something I had secretly harbored for years. That was such a major personal victory on many levels.

Ok, so enough personal stuff…..

Looking through all that’s happened this year, I am grateful for all the ladies that came on Dream Corner – such a rich, diverse range of women came on to tell me their stories. I always say to people that yes come on to promote their businesses, (I don’t mind, that’s what the show is about), but for me it’s the personal stories – the challenges they’ve had to overcome to get to where they are that makes them more amazing to me and my life has certainly been enriched every time I’ve interviewed a guest – so thank you ladies from the bottom of my heart.

Yes, my feature in Sunday Telegraph Stella magazine was super cool!! I was so ecstatic when I heard about it, but equally nervous it wouldn’t actually happen…how does it happen that someone gets to be featured doing something she loves? In truth, I feel my reward has been the contentment/fulfillment/joy I feel doing this job….that’s what we all strive for – isn’t it?! I am fortunate that I feel the way I do about my job! I don’t want to sound and or be too sentimental about it, but I am at my happiest interviewing – everything else (challenges, obstacles, etc)  fades away during this time. I am blessed to have found my bliss at the good ole age of 46!

Last night, I was counting the shows and guests I have had on and it struck me then, just how many hours I put in to getting all the shows ready! 114 – individual, double and themed shows?! WoW! That’s amazing! It certainly didn’t feel like work. I even piloted another show – What Makes You Tick – for men; and it was based on asking men 3 events that shaped them to be who they are today. I loved doing those pilots and hopefully one day I would present it. I got such great feedback from one of my guests that warmed my heart and encouraged me not to give up on it. Who knows, perhaps 2013 will see this dream come true….

I got invited to speak at two events – Wessex Business Women’s evening by the wonderful Avril Owton of Cloud Hotel and London Met Entrepreneurs. Both events were really great – I had a great time telling my story. I am firm believer that we all have something to say and share (regardless of how small) with someone else that would encourage, inspire or motivate them on. Mine may not be grand (and no I’m not belittling myself), but it is my story and everyone has one to tell and share. Perhaps 2013 will be a year for you to share yours with as many people as possible, you’ll be surprised who’s waiting to hear it.

And finally, my something new…..

As you all know, I left OnFM Radio suddenly in September…it was a dark time for me and I was suddenly faced with going forward with my ‘new found’ radio career or finding something else to do with myself. Regardless of how things turned out with OnFM, I would always be grateful to Nicola McHugh, for giving me the opportunity and flexibility to be the presenter I am today. She allowed me to discover and grow into who I am, so she will hold a special place in my heart regardless.

Out of that disappointment, I found a new home in ZoneOneRadio, but was faced with the challenge of changing how and where I interview. B.Hive gave me a home to do that, and also the Royal Festival Hall has turned out to be such a great place for interviews – my guests and I love it!

I didn’t know it at the time, but loosing out on OnFM was one disappointment that turned into a blessing and opened up a new avenue for me. Though I have always felt that radio wasn’t the ‘end’ game, I just didn’t know where it was going to take me.

I thought about becoming a roving reporter – going to events to interview their guests, speakers etc….I had a vision in my head and in true ‘Viv fashion’ went full steam ahead to test out my theory. One thing I have learnt is that if you don’t speak, no one hears and whatever you are thinking dies within you! I mentioned this new service to Paddy Anigbo, Gwen Rhys, Corinne Stuart and a few others (who didn’t think much of my idea), and three of them gave me the opportunities to trial it out at their events. You can check them out here:

TEDxEuston

Women in the City Shopping evening

WildStar Networking Launch party

I am delighted to say, all went very well – my theory worked out and I have set up a new service called Audio Byte Communications. I will be working with businesses and Event organisers to provide audio content for their events. You can find out more here – www.audio-byte.co.uk; and if you think this is a service you would be interested in, please get in touch or know someone who would be, then I would appreciate you passing on the link to them. Just in case you were wondering why I didn’t leave it under the ‘Dream Corner’ brand, well I think Dream Corner is special and should be left as is; and I don’t want anyone to be confused with the messages of both. It just makes it easier to separate them and for potential clients not to be confused with the offering.

Phew! So what a year! I am exhausted – but happily so! I’ve worked through the break, taken time off to catch up friends and TV – surprisingly. I honestly can’t wait for 2013, and I will see myself into the new year full of hope, expectation, a determination to work hard and open arms to embrace it all.

Here’s you a FAB 2013 and thank you for a truly fantastic 2012.

Emma-Jayne, Viv and Vivane

It’s been months since I first planned this interview with Emma-Jayne and Vivane; so I’m thrilled we finally got it done this year. As co-founders of Squid London, it was great to hear about their journey setting up their own business straight out of university. It was such a pleasure to listen to them – Interview with Emma-Jayne and Viviane

More about Emma-Jayne and Vivane
Viviane and Emma-Jayne are co founders of Award-winning SquidLondon – a London-based brand that creates colour explosions on umbrellas, shower curtains amongst other things that involved water and rain. They launched their first collection of 100 Squidarellas at Spitalfields Market and sold out in 11 days. Find out more here – www.squidlondon.com

Gayle Edwards

This year has been a fantastic year for me. I have interviewed so many amazing women, and rounding up with Gayle was a treat! I’m always inspired by women who demonstrate such strength of character and tenacity to go after dreams. I love this statement she made ” I’m a firm believer that nothing that’s yours can pass you by”. Listen in what she was talking about here – Interview with Gayle Edwards

More about Gayle
Gayle is a performance consultant, networking Diva and Entrepreneur for female professional development and wellbeing. She runs all these under her brand Breakthru’ Diva. She is also the Regional Director for Athena North Middlesex. Find out more – www.gayleedwards.com

Susan Moore

Loved my interview with Susan VA extraordinaire; and know we were destined to meet as she works with so many Dream Corner guests. Since I was keen to interview her and our diaries were jammed packed, I actually didn’t get round to sending Susan any Qs as usual; but she came well prepared and we had a FABULOUS interview! Listen in on her journey to taking the step to setting up on her own – Interview with Susan Moore

More about Susan
Susan has worked at director level for leading financial institutions in London and Sydney including Crédit Suisse and UBS Asset Management where she spent nine years as PA to one of the UK’s most influential investors. Find out more – www.mooreva.co.uk

Sara de la Torre and Roz Flanagan

What an awesome interview I had with Roz and Sara!! They demonstrate what a GREAT partnership looks like – in every sense of the word. I love their drive and determination to grow their business, but also the patience to grow organically. Honestly, you would have a smile on your face after this. Listen in here - Interview with Roz and Sara

More about Roz and Sara
Roz and Sara run Ruby and Frost, an online boutique for top quality, hand crafted, limited edition hair accessories aimed at professional women, perfect for all times and occasions. Roz has over 10 years’ experience in fashion design, marketing and graphic design. Sara also brings a decade of experience as a City entrepreneur and businesswoman. Together they represent an ideal skill-set to turn RUBY & FROST into a long-lasting and successful brand. Find out more at www.rubyandfrost.com

Viv and Veronica Broomes

I met Veronica last year at a Business Fights Poverty event and lost touch. It was great to reconnect over the summer months and catch up with what was new in her business. She talked about starting her career with a scientific sector and making the move to starting her business. Listen in to all she shares – Interview with Veronica Broomes

More about Veronica
Veronica is the founder of Talent Manager in Teams – part Executive Solutions Training Ltd; where she created and developed Change Shapers & Confidence Boosters Forum. She’s an experienced executive coach, speaker and consultant trainer, and she works with individuals and groups to increase confidence and achieve personal and career goals; and effectively manage personal and organisational change and mobility. Find out more here – www.talentmanagemnetinteams.co.uk

I was looking forward to seeing her again, meeting some new people and interviewing some of the guests – providing audio content for the party. It was a huge success, and I had a great time speaking to a diverse range of guests. Listen in on my interviews with 3 of the 4 co-hosts and some guests:

This service – audio content provision for events like TEDx, shopping evenings, Networking events, book/product launches, conferences, seminars etc; is now done under Audio Byte. You can find out more here – www.audio-byte.co.uk. You can also contact Viv – viv@audio-byte.co.uk

Viv and Kathy Ennis

It was lovely to finally meet and interview Kathy after all the date changes – all my fault! I love it when interviews reveal a lot more gems and great information as ours did! A guy at the Royal Festival Hall came up to us after we’d finished to tell us he enjoyed listening to everything Kathy talked about – how awesome is that! So sit back and enjoy to Kathy share some great tips on personal branding and more – Interview with Kathy Ennis

More about Kathy
Kathy is a Mentor, Trainer, Speaker, creator of the 4VP method of Personal Brand development for Business Growth and Career Success. You can find out more here – www.kathyennis.co.uk

Sarah Lloyd-Hughes

I had waited for months to interview Sarah and it was definitely worth it! We talked about how she started her consultancy as a public speaking coach, and growing her business. I thought the timing was perfect actually since I was heading off to give a talk. I loved every minute of it and I promise you, it’s 50 minutes worth spending – enjoy! Interview with Sarah Lloyd-Hughes

More about Sarah
Sarah is a Public Speaking Coach and the founder of Ginger – training & coaching company that takes clients on the journey from fear, to confidence to bravery. She is also the publisher author of ‘How to become confident at public speaking’. You can find out more here – www.go-ginger.com

A couple of weeks ago I had the pleasure of going along to the launch of Tom Barry’s new book - When the Siren Calls organised by Helen Lewis of Fully Booked PR.

When the Siren Calls is Tom’s first installment of a trilogy about main characters Isobel and Jay. Set between London and Tuscany; the book weaves a modern-day tale of the corruption, deceit, love (lack of), betrayal and more. I’ve heard it described as a ‘thinking woman’s Fifty Shades of Grey’, and I think that does the book some dis-service because Fifty Shades is fantasy – escapism at best! Do you know anyone who is the Christian character in real life? I think not!

With When the Siren Calls, you read about real characters searching as we all are. Isobel is married to a man who is so focused on his high powered career, and more or less ignores her. She doesn’t work and as much as she may contemplate leaving, she can’t – where will she go and what will she do? She feels trapped, and is hungry for attention. Meeting Jay awakens so many things within her, she thought dead. Jay notices her, hangs on to her every word, and so she naturally wants to gravitate towards him; but more importantly she starts to think about herself, her life and what she really wants out of it.

I was slightly taken aback by Jay’s character, as he is surprisingly not a ‘nice’ person as you would expect of a main/lead character of books of this genre. He is a ‘bad’ boy – naturally good looking, manipulative, deceptive and a hustler – fighting for survival.

The world is full of characters like him and Isobel; and in my opinion Tom Barry has written a book about real people who have flaws like you and I – you may not like all of them, but their common thread is their search for love – and all humans need that!

On the night, I got to interview Tom with Dream Corner guest – Tracey McAlpine of Fighting Fifty; and we asked him how he came to writing his first book after his successful career in the City. We were stunned to hear how two heart attacks forced him to think about life and finally pursue his dream of writing – doing something he really enjoyed for a change. After 20 years in the City, you would have thought he would write a business book, but instead he decided in favour of a story of people lives and the world we live in. During the interview, he shared his reasons behind the characters, telling us that Jay’s is really a combination of himself and other people he has known over many years.

You can listen to our interview here - Interview with Tom Barry  

Tom is already back writing the next installment and we (Tracey and I) can’t wait. You see on the night, we made a pledge before we found out, to take the other to Tuscany if either of us won the main prize on the night. Tracey won it, so we are excitingly planning a trip to coincide with the launch of the 2nd one, so we talk about  it there.

Tom Barry and Tracey McAlpine

Competition
You can win a copy of When the Siren Calls by emailing viv@dreamcorner.co.uk and telling me when Tom thinks the next installment is due. (Hint: you have to listen to the interview).

The evening was fantastic with brands such as The Fold London, Upper Street, Brilliant Inc, Who Made Your Pants and Blow To Go offering guests gift ideas for Christmas.

I got to speak with brand owners and some of the guests at the event:

Brands
Upper Street – Interview with Julia Grinham - www.upperstreet.com

The Fold London – Interview with Polly McMaster  - www.thefoldlondon.com

Brilliant Inc – Interview with Dervla Cogan - www.brilliantinc.co.uk

Who Made Your Pants? – Interview with Becky John & Gwen Rhys  – www.whomadeyourpants.co.uk

Capsule Wardrobes – Interview with Caroline Wolf - www.capsule-wardrobes.co.uk

The Style Counsel – Interview with Maggie McMillian – www.stylecounsel.co.uk

Guest Interviews
Jo and Natalie

Eva, Caroline and Marike

Catherine and Sarah-Jane

Carla Photography

As a media partner providing audio content of TEDxEuston 2012, Dream Corner wanted to capture the spirit of such a memorable event by interviewing speakers, partners, delegates and one of the organisers over two days. The interviews give anyone a ‘feel’ of what happened and how people genuinely felt about the day. You can read my blog of my experience here – My 1st TEDxEuston Experience. Listen to a range of my interviews below.

Speakers

• Jepchumba
• Trevor Ncube
• Jacqueline Novogratz
• Jason Njoku
• Komla Dumor
• Ndidi Nwuneli
• Cobhams Asuquo
• Inua Ellams

Sponsors/Partners

• Doug Brew – Unilever
• Zahid Torres-Rahman – Business Fights Poverty

Organiser
Paddy Anigbo

Delegates
Before event interviews
After sessions interviews

After event delegate interviews with:

• Anthea Omoregbee
• Doug and Daphne Kasambala
• Berni Widemann
• Nneka Abulokwe

You can find out more about TEDxEuston here – www.tedxeuston.com

Dream Corner specialises in providing audio content for TEDx events, Shopping evenings, Book Launches, Networking events etc. Find out more by contacting Viv – viv@dreamcorner.co.uk

I can’t begin to tell you how excited I was going to my 1st TEDxEuston event, especially since I had partnered with them to provide audio content. I was going to interview as many speakers as possible and get immediate reaction from delegates.

My excitement was almost at fever pitch on Friday – I say almost because Saturday was the main day of the event, but I was going to meet and interview some of the speakers on Friday. I got to interview two – Jepchumba and Trevor Ncube ahead of the drinks reception where I met two others Alcinda Honwana and Chimamanda Adichie.

By Saturday morning, I could barely contain myself and I tried to act all cool and collected! My excitement was  mostly because I was going to hear the great speakers lined up; but also because of the unknown. I was looking forward to meeting new people, interviewing as many willing people as possible and just being in the moment.

Tickets were sold out for this event catering for 500 people – not just Africans, but anybody else who has an interest in and loves Africa, and equally loves TED. The TEDxEuston team were just amazing – for organising a great event with such inspiring speakers.

I LOVED the talks – they inspired me, made me laugh a lot, brought tears to my eyes, but also they got me to think about and look at my continent in a slightly different way. I haven’t been back to Nigeria in nine years; and was particularly pleased none of the speakers painted a rosey picture of how things really are. Instead, they spoke about the positive – the great strides they and others are taking to achieve their goals and the challenges they face along the way. You see that’s more realistic and something that gives hope – just like in any other thing or area of our lives where we have goals to achieve, regardless of the challenges. I am so pleased I got to hear that.

On another personal note, I got to meet new people, see some old friends, relatives and we caught up on each other’s news.

Professionally, I was on a high (I know I shouldn’t say that!!), but I was! I loved the fact that I could interview so many people. The highlight (apart from the coup/scoop I managed – I’ll tell you about that in a minute!); during my interview with Daphne Kasambala and her husband Doug, they told me why they came and as she told me explained her business, I said to her she would be an ideal guest for Dream Corner. To my surprise (and utter delight!), she said she had heard about me and Dream Corner, but just didn’t recognise me! You can only imagine how cool that was!

The interviews will be up this week – my 8 interviews with 15 of the speakers – yes I know; and additional clips with organisers, delegates and sponsors – well done me!

So for the scoop, I was the only one who got to interview best-selling author of ‘Blue Sweater’ and Founder of Acumen, Jacqueline Novogratz! The lady from CNN was trying to muscle her way in – after all on the balance of things Dream Corner is miniscule, but I hung in there and got my interview – she didn’t, and I am very proud of that.

I left about 10.30pm (the photo was taken by Paddy Anigbo as I was leaving); with a big smile and a warm feeling on the inside and not tired – even though I had a long day. I’d like to think I have grown this last week. So much happened – I was at a Book Launch to interview the author, Spoke at London Met ‘Meet the Entrepreneurs’ series and covered a TEDx event. I’m pleased that out of the disappointment of moving from OnFM Radio, I have taken the opportunities that presented themselves – and this last week was just a glimpse of what possibilities lie ahead.

I can’t wait to share my interviews with you this week, so please look out for them.

I don’t know about you, but I am wondering where 2012 has gone! In two days of writing this post, it would be December 1st and 24 days to Christmas and 30 days to the end of the year.

This is usually the time a lot of us take stock of what we have or haven’t achieved, recharge and also plan for the year ahead. It’s been great to see so much encouragement and support for start-up businesses regardless of how the economy has been. But I also know there are still a lot of people out there who would like to start a business but are scared to take the risk – fear of the unknown and commitments.

I’ve been asking guests if this is a good time to start a business and all have said yes! Some people are going to bite the bullet and go ahead in 2013 and start a business, then you may be interested to hear Channel 4 are offering people an opportunity to change their lives with a new series….read more below; and please pass this on if you know anyone who’s thinking about starting a business – this is just another way to achieve/realise a dream.

True North Productions is looking for couples and families to take part in Compare Your Life, a new Channel 4 series which aims to change people’s lives for the better.

We all use comparison websites to find the best insurance deals or holidays – what if you could use comparison processes to swap a life you’re not happy with for one you love? In a unique series we take couples and families looking for better qualities of life and help them to compare options for a new life.
Our team of experts evaluate each family’s finances to find out how much they can afford to invest in their new life and, using comparison processes, help them discover what matters most to them. They then scour the country to find real business and life plans that match their budget and priorities.

This is the perfect opportunity for people who dream of change and who have the financial backing, but until now just haven’t had the time, headspace or right opportunity to go for it!
If you dream of giving up your job, selling your house, cashing in your savings and buying your own business somewhere new, we would love to hear from you.

Please contact us on compareyourlife@truenorth.tv or call 0113 3945489. or visit www.truenorth.tv

Tracey McAlpine and Viv

After months of rescheduling, Tracey and I finally got to sit down and have our interview…..it was certainly worth the wait! Tracey is amazing and shared how she came to setting her business – Fighting Fifty in her fifties (she doesn’t look her age one bit!). Sit back and relax and listen us talk about why her offering is needed and lessons learnt setting up her business. Interview with Tracey McAlpine

More about Tracey
Tracey is the founder of Fighting Fifty; and created Fighting Fifty for the women we are today. She provides the best ways to look good, feel positive, stay healthy and increase your chances of living life to the full after fifty. Find out more here – www.fightingfifty.co.uk

Nicky and Sila Lee

It’s always a pleasure interviewing Nicky and Sila! It’s so relaxing and I almost forget it’s a one hour interview! We talked about their 2nd book – The Parenting Book which is full of so many useful tips on setting boundaries amongst other issues; and their own personal (hilarious!) stories parenting their four children – fantastic interview! Listen in here – Interview with Nicky and Sila Lee

More about Nicky and Sila
Nicky and Sila Lee are the Founders of Relationship Central and over the last twenty-five years have developed and produced resources to help support family life through the local church. They regularly speak to thousands of guests at training events and conferences worldwide.

They are co-authors of The Marriage Book, which is based on The Marriage Preparation Course and The Marriage Course, and The Parenting Book, which is based on The Parenting Children Course and The Parenting Teenagers Course. You can find out more here – www.relationshipcentral.org

Viv and Gaby Marcon Clarke

Really enjoyed my interview with Gaby! As a mentoring specialist, she is also part of the Westminster Business Council mentoring initiative and she had lots of experience to share setting up her business and the benefits of being a mentor. Thinking of getting a business mentor or becoming one? Then listen in here – Interview with Gaby Marcon Clarke.

I also chat with Sophie Shrubsole from WBC on why they set up the mentoring initiative. Listen in here – Interview with Sophie Shrubsole

More about Gaby
Gaby is the founder of Shine P&P, a mentoring specialist consultancy providing bespoke mentoring and business development. Prior to setting up Shine, Gaby had a career in the Travel & Tourism sector – launching and managing two tour operators; setting up an Ambassador scheme in Turin; as well as in Marketing and PR. Find out more here – www.shinepeopleandplace.co.uk

Lina Christopoulou and Viv

Really pleased Lina is on my Mentor series….our interview was very refreshingly honest – I loved it! As a mentor on the Westminster Business Council (WBC) mentoring initiative, she shares her experience as a business consultant and her highs and lows of running her own business. I think this is one interview anyone thinking of starting a business should listen to. Interview with Lina Christopoulou. 

I also chat with Sophie Shrubsole from WBC on why they set up the mentoring initiative. Listen in here – Interview with Sophie Shrubsole

More about Lina
Lina is a business consultant specialising in Healthcare, Science, Engineering and Technology companies. In 2007, she fulfilled one of her ambitions and set up Lina’s Kitchen (now called the Gluten-Free Cake Coy), producing gluten free cakes for private clients. For London 2012, she was one of the paid volunteers selected to manage a catering, cleaning and waste team.

Viv and Liz Rice

I met Liz at a techy event and as she told me her business was related to TV and film; I knew I wanted to find out more. I’m always intrigued and amazed what leads people to a business concept; and Liz and her husband’s is pretty cool. Listen in here - Interview with Liz Rice

More about Liz
Liz is the co-founder of Tank Top TV. Tank Top TV aggregates data about the TV programmes available to watch online from a number of different channels and providers, and lets users create a personalized programme listing that reflects what they like to watch.
Find out more here – www.tanktop.tv. You can test the TankTop movies website – movies.tanktop.tv for FREE by using the code – DREAMCORNER