In this episode of Leaders in Business, host Marlene Lowe speaks with Joyce Onuonga, Managing Director of John White & Son Weighing Machines Limited, about her remarkable journey from Kenya to Scotland and from teacher to custodian of Scotland's oldest family business. Joyce's story is one of resilience, cultural adaptation, and breaking barriers in ways she never anticipated.

Joyce arrived in Scotland in the late 1990s with her three children to join her husband, who was pursuing his PhD at the University of St Andrews. The transition presented immediate challenges—arriving during the Rwanda crisis meant constant questions about African conflicts, and her youngest son spoke only Swahili and their indigenous language. Yet the community's warmth, the children's resilience, and cultural similarities (like Scottish ceilidh dancing reminding her of home) helped the family settle quickly.

Starting as a high school teacher in Kenya, Joyce moved into business before following her husband to Scotland. After struggling to find teaching work despite registering with the teaching council, she pursued various jobs, earned an MBA, and eventually accepted what was supposed to be a six-month temporary placement at John White & Son. Nearly 30 years later, she's still there—having progressed from business development manager to general manager to becoming the company's first female manager in its nearly 300-year history.

The conversation reveals the profound challenge Joyce faced as a woman of colour in a male-dominated industry. Her first achievement, she says, was convincing colleagues to look past her gender and race to hear her ideas. This required patience, persistence, and surrounding herself with supporters who encouraged her to "wipe the dust away and stand up" when faced with resistance.

In 2017, Joyce completed a management buyout when founder Edwin White decided to retire but wanted someone who would preserve the family ethos and company values. Now, Joyce works alongside her two sons, transforming John White & Son (established 1715) into a Scottish-Kenyan family business whilst honouring its three-century legacy.

Joyce chairs the Scottish Africa Business Association (SABA), working to connect Scottish and African businesses and challenge outdated narratives about Africa being too risky for business. She advocates for recognising Africa's innovation—citing Kenya's M-Pesa mobile money system that leapfrogged traditional banking to create a nearly cashless society—and encourages collaboration between Scottish technology expertise and African problem-solving approaches.

The episode explores Joyce's cultural perspective on risk, innovation, and problem-solving. Where Western business culture emphasises risk mitigation through extensive planning, Joyce describes the African approach: when there's a problem, find a solution immediately rather than dwelling on "what ifs."

Joyce offers wisdom on work-life balance (advice she wishes she'd followed earlier), the importance of building safe networks with mentors and critics who challenge you, and the difference between business associates and friends. She emphasises being a giver—sharing information and skills to lift others—and maintaining clear boundaries when working with family through agreed-upon rules and discipline.

In this powerful episode of Leaders in Business, host Marlene Lowe speaks with Amy Callaghan, former Member of Parliament for East Dunbartonshire and current Strategic Political Adviser at Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland. Amy's story is one of extraordinary resilience, marked by life-altering health events that redirected her path from teaching to politics to advocacy.

Amy's journey began at age 19 with a melanoma diagnosis that opened her eyes to health inequalities in the West of Scotland. This experience, combined with support from Teenage Cancer Trust, transformed her aspirations from becoming a teacher to entering politics to create systemic change. She witnessed firsthand how young people with cancer needed greater psychological and financial support, and how many preventable deaths resulted from health inequalities.

After working as a staffer in the Scottish Parliament at Holyrood—which she describes as a "modern functioning parliament"—Amy stood for Westminster and achieved a remarkable victory in 2019, defeating the incumbent leader of a Westminster party by just 149 votes. However, her time as an MP was immediately challenged by the COVID-19 pandemic, followed by a severe brain haemorrhage that left her navigating Parliament as a young woman with an acquired disability.

The conversation reveals the stark contrast between Holyrood and Westminster, particularly regarding accessibility and support for disabled MPs. Amy had to campaign for the basic right to a proxy vote whilst recovering from her brain injury—an experience she describes as "resentful" but one that left a positive legacy for future MPs with disabilities.

Amy speaks candidly about authentic leadership, distinguishing between showing up when you shouldn't (which she did) versus being true to yourself by acknowledging capacity limits. Her cyclical grief over her acquired disability, leadership challenges during the pandemic whilst consuming information simultaneously with constituents, and the pressure of being perceived as strong when feeling vulnerable paint a realistic picture of leadership under extraordinary circumstances.

Now at Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland, Amy works on the very rehabilitation programme that helped her regain independence—including the seemingly small but profoundly significant goal of being able to put on her own bra so she could wear power suits in Parliament. The programme challenges outdated scientific evidence about stroke recovery timelines, proving that neuroplasticity continues far longer than previously believed.

The episode concludes with Amy's passionate call to protect democracy, encouraging listeners to research candidates thoroughly, align votes with personal values, and actively lobby their elected representatives. Her message is clear: every vote counts, and democracy requires active participation, not passive observation.

In this captivating episode of Leaders in Business, host Marlene Lowe discovers an unexpected connection with guest Hamish Taylor—both with roots in Zambia's Copper Belt, setting the stage for a conversation filled with personal insights and professional wisdom. Hamish's remarkable career journey spans from Procter & Gamble's rigorous brand management training to transforming customer experience across British Airways, Eurostar, and Sainsbury's Bank.

Hamish's story begins with his education at St Andrews University and an MBA in America during the early days when MBAs weren't popular in Europe. His first claim to fame was becoming "the UK's leading expert on housewives' toilet cleaning habits" at Procter & Gamble—an experience that taught him the fundamental principle that would define his career: it's not about your product, it's about the customer benefit.

The conversation reveals how Hamish thrived as "the outsider"—the non-banker running a bank, the non-railwayman running a railway. His philosophy centres on the Procter & Gamble principle of customer benefit over product features, which he brilliantly demonstrated at British Airways with the "arrive ready for business" promise that revolutionised business class travel with innovations like arrival lounges and pre-flight dining.

Hamish candidly discusses his career transitions, admitting he "gets bored easily" and explaining how each move taught him that technical brilliance isn't enough—the missing piece is always putting the customer at the centre. His turnaround experiences at Eurostar (starting with a £206 million loss, no service due to Channel Tunnel fire, and striking French workers) and Sainsbury's Bank showcase his ability to transform product-led organisations into customer-centric businesses.

The episode explores three levels of customer experience: product quality, customer experience, and emotional connection. Hamish argues that whilst product competence is essential, true differentiation comes from how you make customers feel—citing Disney's "magical surprises" and Starbucks' experience-driven success.

Personal insights emerge as Hamish reveals his biggest weaknesses: not being tough enough and struggling with managing upwards, which ultimately led him to leave corporate life for consulting and speaking. 

The discussion touches on recruitment philosophy, the importance of passion in work, and the challenge of institutional memory loss when experienced leaders leave organisations. Hamish advocates for thinking beyond job titles to focus on the benefits others receive from your expertise, embodying his core principle that "everything we ever do is about somebody else's success.

In this deeply personal episode of Leaders in Business, host Marlene Lowe sits down with her close friend and colleague, Professor Sonia Aitken, CEO of Pain Association Scotland and Visiting Professor at York St John University. What begins as a conversation between friends reveals the extraordinary journey of a leader who transformed multiple redundancies into resilience and found her true calling in the third sector.

Sonia's story starts with teenage rebellion—defying her mother's wishes to pursue higher education when banking seemed like the "safe" career choice. Her path took her through export sales, banking, insurance, and multiple redundancies that she now recognises as building blocks of resilience. Each setback became a stepping stone, ultimately leading her to Pain Association Scotland 15 years ago, where she's transformed from administrator to CEO.

The conversation explores the myth that charities don't need to operate like businesses, with Sonia passionately arguing that sound business practices are essential for third sector survival. As both women share a commitment to running organisations with business rigour whilst maintaining heart-centred missions, their friendship exemplifies how professional networks can evolve into meaningful personal connections.

Sonia candidly discusses her reputation as an "ice queen" in previous roles, revealing how passion for results can be misinterpreted as coldness. She advocates for situational leadership—adapting style based on context whilst never losing authenticity. Her recent appointment as Visiting Professor demonstrates how expertise gained through lived experience can enhance academic learning.

The episode tackles the unique challenges facing charity leaders today, from government bureaucracy to the dilution of chronic pain within broader "long-term conditions" categories. Sonia's frustration with unnecessary obstacles and lack of common sense in systems resonates as she advocates for more sensible, passion-driven leadership across all sectors.

In this captivating episode of Leaders in Business, host Marlene Lowe interviews Julie Ashworth, Chair of the Institute of Directors for Scotland. Julie shares her unconventional career path from filling shelves at Tesco to leading organizations across multiple sectors. Her story takes a dramatic turn when she left corporate life to participate in the Round the World yacht race—despite not being able to swim or sail.

Julie's career spans retail giants like Tesco, Liberty of London, and Marks & Spencer, as well as IBM's transition from hardware to professional services. Throughout her journey, she founded Broadreach, a leadership consultancy, whilst simultaneously holding executive roles. Her leadership philosophy centres on leaving people better than you found them and championing others when they're not in the room.

The conversation explores themes of career transitions, the importance of networks, giving back to communities, and the evolving nature of leadership across generations. Julie reflects on succession planning challenges and how five generations currently exist in today's workplace, with 70% of senior leadership positions held by baby boomers whilst younger generations bring different expectations and communication preferences.

In this episode of Leaders in Business, host Marlene Lowe sits down with Jane-Claire Judson, Chief Executive of Chest Heart & Stroke Scotland, to explore what it truly means to lead with purpose, humility, and fierce competence. From her early days in student politics to the halls of the Scottish Parliament and into the heart of third sector leadership, Jane-Claire shares the twists, turns, and mentors that shaped her path.

They discuss the value of consistency over charisma, building legacy beyond ego, and the often-overlooked power of stepping back. With reflections on personal growth, navigating imposter moments, and the unexpected leadership tool of a great playlist, this conversation offers a grounded yet inspiring take on what it means to lead well—and to live a life that’s fully your own.

Three Reflections to Take With You 

As we close this conversation, here are three powerful reflections that Jane-Claire encourages us all to consider:

1. Know Your Compass

   You won’t always get to work in perfect alignment with your values—but you must know what they are. Understanding your stretch points helps you make better decisions and stay anchored in what truly matters.

2. Read Widely, Think Deeply

   Whether it’s the back of a cereal box or a complex autobiography, reading invites you into other worlds and perspectives. The broader your input, the richer your thinking.

3. Build Your Leadership Playlist

   Everyone needs a personal soundtrack—a few songs that lift you, energise you, and remind you who you are when the stakes are high. Curate it, use it, and let it power you through the moments that matter.

In this thought-provoking episode of Leaders in Business, Marlene Lowe sits down with John McMorris, Director of Business Development at the Scottish Qualifications Authority, for a conversation that traverses continents, career paths, and the deeper purpose of leadership. From the semiconductor floors of Japan to the educational corridors of Sri Lanka, John’s journey is defined by curiosity, adaptability, and a profound respect for culture.

What unfolds is a masterclass in global business development—anchored not just in strategy, but in humanity. John shares how honour, presence, and long-term thinking have shaped his approach to leadership and helped forge trust across borders. He speaks candidly about the tensions between risk and growth, the subtle art of cultural integration, and why education must be seen as a global currency—one that empowers movement, opportunity, and equity.

This episode is rich with insight for anyone who leads, who learns, or who believes in building something that will outlast them. With humility and clarity, John reflects on the responsibilities of being a director, the lessons he’s drawn from global travel, and the joy of watching small ideas become legacy projects.

If you’ve ever wondered how to lead across cultures, bridge business with meaning, or plant seeds you may never see bloom—this one’s for you.

In this vibrant and unfiltered conversation, Marlene Lowe welcomes Sandra Dailidyte—wealth manager, Lithuanian-born powerhouse, and British Masters weightlifting champion—to the Leaders in Business podcast. What follows is a bold and honest exploration of ambition, identity, and the drive to create space for women in rooms where they’ve historically been overlooked.

From her early days in post-Soviet Lithuania to landing in the UK with £550 and a one-way ticket, Sandra shares her extraordinary path to success in wealth management—and how she has built a career that unapologetically blends intellect, empathy, and strength, both mental and physical. She opens up about the challenges of forging a new path in a new country, the emotional cost of striving, and the joy of finally feeling fully herself in her work.

Together, Marlene and Sandra delve into the psychology of stress, the need for emotional integrity in leadership, and the immense power of financial literacy—especially for women. With humour, depth, and fierce clarity, Sandra offers not only a masterclass in determination but a passionate call to dream bigger, take up space, and lift others as you rise.

Whether you’re a business owner, a first-generation dreamer, or simply seeking a spark to reignite your fire, this episode is a powerful reminder: the path may not be clear, but you can still choose to walk it with purpose—and joy.

In this deeply engaging episode of Leaders in Business, host Marlene Lowe welcomes veteran recruiter Ivan McGeorge for a conversation that moves far beyond the mechanics of hiring. With candour, humour, and heartfelt reflection, Ivan charts his unexpected journey into recruitment—from dreams of a political career and chance encounters at Stirling University, to decades spent matching people to purpose.

Together, they explore the profound impact of mentorship, the quiet art of active listening, and the enduring power of authenticity in business. Ivan speaks to the emotional weight of the recruitment cycle—its highs, its heartbreaks, and the lessons held in both. With a gentle honesty, he reveals how he has learned to navigate setbacks, embrace vulnerability, and ground himself through human connection, personal fitness, and, of course, endless cups of coffee.

This is not just an episode about recruitment. It is a conversation about life, about showing up as you are, and about building meaningful relationships in a world that too often values transaction over truth. Whether you’re in business, at a crossroads, or simply seeking insight into what it means to listen—really listen—this one is worth your time.

In this powerful and profoundly moving episode of Leaders in Business, host Marlene Lowe speaks with journalist, advocate, and changemaker Sophie Dow—whose life has been defined not only by global headlines and celebrity interviews, but by a deeply personal mission to reframe how society understands neurodiversity.

Sophie shares the remarkable journey that took her from the newsrooms of Swedish television to the glittering world of film star interviews in London, and ultimately to the founding of Mindroom, a charity dedicated to supporting neurodivergent individuals and their families. Born of love and necessity following the birth of her daughter Annie—who lives with a rare neurological profile now known as “Annie’s Syndrome”—Mindroom has become Sophie’s third child and life’s calling.

With grace, humour, and unwavering conviction, Sophie reflects on the challenges of navigating an often unsympathetic system, the transformative power of listening, and the urgent need for societal change. Together, Marlene and Sophie explore what it means to lead with empathy, the importance of inclusive narratives, and why dignity must be at the heart of every conversation about difference.

This episode is both a tribute to the power of personal resolve and a clarion call for a kinder, more compassionate world. It’s about journalism and justice, science and spirit—and the quiet but unshakable belief that every life deserves to be understood, celebrated, and loved.