Welcome to the latest IWG podcast with John Reid MBE where we discuss the world of public service and operational excellence with John Reid, the Head of Operational Insights at the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP). With over 35 years of experience, John has dedicated his career to improving services for vulnerable customers and making a positive impact on communities across Scotland.

John's passion for public service extends beyond his professional life. As a founding member of Ardgowan Football Development Club and an avid charity fundraiser, he brings a unique perspective on leadership, community engagement, and the importance of giving back

This Week’s Guest: Stephen Slessor, CEO of RSE

In this episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with Stephen Slessor, the CEO of RSE. Stephen shares a wealth of fascinating stories from his life, detailing his journey from his early education to his current leadership role. He takes us through the pivotal moments of his career, including the challenges and triumphs that shaped his path.

In this episode, we explore the journey of Eddie Fraser, whose extensive career in local government has been marked by dedication and a commitment to public service. As the Chief Executive of East Ayrshire Council, Eddie has been at the forefront of community engagement, striving to improve the lives of the residents through innovative policies and programs. Join us as we delve into the experiences that have shaped his approach to leadership.

In this inspiring episode of the "I Was Gonnae" charity podcast, we sit down with Evelyne McDonald, the esteemed CEO of Scottish EDGE, a leading organisation that supports Scotland's most innovative and ambitious entrepreneurs. Join us as Evelyne shares her invaluable insights on fostering entrepreneurship and how Scottish EDGE is empowering the next generation of business leaders. Discover the impactful stories of those who've turned their visions into reality with the support of Scottish EDGE.

I was gonnae charity podcast are delighted to announce that this week's guest is Edel Harris OBE , the former CEO of Mencap, the UK's leading learning disability charity. Edel has over 25 years of experience in the social care sector and is passionate about improving the lives of people with learning disabilities. She was until recently a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts and a Trustee of the Robertson Trust. In this episode, we talk to Edel about her career journey, her achievements and challenges at Mencap, and her advice for aspiring leaders in the social care sector. Tune in to hear her insights and stories on our podcast, available. Don't forget to subscribe, rate, and review our show. We hope you enjoy it.

I was gonnae podcast are delighted to announce that this week's guest is Jim Todd, the provost of East Ayrshire. Jim has a fascinating story to share, from his time in the Navy to his current role as the civic leader of East Ayrshire. He talks about his achievements, challenges and aspirations for the future of E Ayrshire region. Tune in to hear his insights and advice on leadership, community and service. You don't want to miss this episode!

This week's guest is Vanessa Collingridge British author and broadcaster.

This week's guest is David Martindale manager at Livingston Football club

This week's #iwasgonnae podcast guest is Zara Janjua Award-winning TV, Radio & Podcast Presenter / Columnist / Journalist / Host / Comedian / Writer / Producer / Director / Filmmaker / Charity Trustee / Media & Presenter Training Instructor.

Zara was born in Glasgow and tells us that ‘she likes to be busy’ you can tell that having one look at her LinkedIn profile and her incredible list of what she is currently doing TV, Radio & Podcast Presenter / Columnist / Journalist / Host / Comedian / Writer / Producer / Director / Filmmaker / Charity Trustee / Media & Presenter Training Instructor.

At #school she says, ‘she didn’t feel as if I fitted in’ and felt ‘a little conflicted’ and called herself ‘a floater’ at that time. Zara continues that she felt her life didn’t really start until she left school.

She calls herself ‘a doer’ and likes to be busy and doesn’t like to spend too much ‘time processing that are not going well’.

Her advice for the future generation is ‘turn your ideas into something tangible', ‘getting my ideas out and into the world is what has shaped and is shaping my life and #career’.

Hear more of Zara's amazing life stories now on the #Iwasgonnae podcast.