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What does it take to lead with integrity in a rapidly evolving world? From her early days in law to navigating the cultural challenges of moving halfway across the world, Lexie Kirkconnell-Kawana has carved a unique path in leadership and media regulation.

As CEO of Impress, the UK’s independent press regulator, Lexie is on the frontlines of tackling some of the biggest challenges in the media and information landscape — from navigating hybrid workforces to redefining what diversity and ethical leadership mean in today’s organisations.

🔗 Find Lexie on Linkedin

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Some takeaways from Lexie’s interview:

1️⃣ Authentic leadership is a must

True leadership isn’t about mimicking others — it’s about knowing your unique strengths and aligning them with your organisation’s needs.

2️⃣ Adapting to change is survival

Hybrid working, shifting cultures, and a fast-evolving media landscape demand constant listening and experimenting to find what works.

3️⃣ Diversity takes effort

Real inclusion comes from proactively building networks and recruiting intentionally, not just ticking boxes.

4️⃣ AI regulation is urgent

The rise of generative AI brings both opportunities and risks. Acting now to address misinformation and ethical design is non-negotiable.

5️⃣ Prioritise balance

High-pressure roles require discipline. Rest, wellness, and intentional relationships aren’t just optional — they fuel long-term success.

In this episode we cover:

00:00 Introduction to Lexie Kirkconnell-Kawana

04:00 The Journey to Law and Media Regulation

05:55 Cultural Adaptation: From New Zealand to the UK

11:12 Leadership Training: A Shift in Mindset

14:09 Redefining Leadership: From Specialist to Leader

19:17 Learning Leadership: Resources and Conversations

22:18 Finding Your Tribe: Networking in a New Era

24:57 Adapting Leadership in a Hybrid World

29:45 Diversity Beyond Tick-Boxing: Authentic Inclusion

33:53 Overcoming Challenges: Building Resilience

37:54 Leadership Styles: Male vs Female CEOs

41:58 Wellbeing Practices for CEOs

45:47 Finding Balance in a Demanding Role

49:11 Sacrifices on the Path to Leadership

52:33 Challenges in Media Regulation

58:14 The Responsibility of Platforms

01:01:17 Regulating AI in Media

01:05:33 The UK's Position in Global Regulation

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William Stokes is an entrepreneur who shifted from engineering in the oil and gas industry to revolutionising regional co-working spaces with Co-Space. Starting his journey by converting commercial buildings into residential units, William saw an opportunity to create design-led workspaces outside of London — with three live locations and 20 in the pipeline. As co-founder of Co-Space, he’s reshaping how and where we work by focusing on community, exceptional design, and regional growth.

Some takeaways from William’s interview:

1️⃣ Find a business partner who complements your skillsTeam up with someone whose strengths balance out your weaknesses. William says that a solid partnership with complementary skills is the secret sauce to tackling challenges and smashing business goals together.

2️⃣ Embrace calculated risks and manage them carefullyDon’t shy away from taking risks, but make sure they’re smart ones. William said it’s important to size up potential pitfalls and having a game plan — especially in the property world.

3️⃣ Sacrifice now to level up laterBe prepared to give up some short-term comforts for long-term gains. William believes that putting in the graft today sets you up for bigger wins tomorrow.

4️⃣ Enjoy the journey and celebrate the winsDon’t get so caught up in the hustle that you forget to have fun. William reminds us to appreciate the process, celebrate your milestones, and enjoy the ride along the way.

5️⃣ Build genuine relationships without expecting returnsInvest in your network by helping others out — just because you can. William believes that authentic connections often lead to unexpected opportunities down the line.

In this episode we cover:

00:00 William Stokes Introduction

03:43 From Engineering to Property: A Journey of Discovery

05:46 WeWork: From Inspiration to Proof of Concept

07:57 Differentiating Co-Space: Design and Service

09:58 Location Strategy: Choosing the Right Markets

12:00 The Heart of Co-Space: Stevenage

13:08 Future Growth: Scaling Co-Space

15:04 Timing, Luck, and Hustle: The Recipe for Success

16:49 Building Connections: The Art of Networking

18:29 Finding the Right Business Partner

21:52 Hiring for Success: The First Employees

23:53 The Value of Self-Education

25:38 Stepping Back: Focusing on the Big Picture

27:46 Encouraging Initiative: Empowering the Team

29:45 Maintaining Focus: Routines and Habits

31:54 Balancing Work and Personal Life

33:27 Maximizing Productivity Through Time Management

34:51 Transforming ADHD into an Entrepreneurial Superpower

36:58 Leading with Empathy and Flexibility

39:26 Calculating Risks in Entrepreneurship

41:59 Navigating the Future of Remote Work

45:00 Debunking Get-Rich-Quick Schemes in Property Investment

47:54 Essential Tips for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

50:44 Influential Books and Their Impact

52:58 Finding Inspiration in Life and Business

54:53 The Sacrifices of Entrepreneurship

56:35 Advice for New Entrepreneurs

58:45 Exploring Global Perspectives and Opportunities

01:01:51 The UK's Business Climate and Future Challenges

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Peter Watson is a serial entrepreneur who’s been in the game since he was 16. Over the years, he’s built, scaled and exited businesses across multiple industries, using his knack for marketing, smart investments, and turning challenges like ADHD into superpowers. Peter’s all about embracing tech, especially AI, and helping millennials shake up traditional business models while making their own mark.

Some takeaways from Peter’s interview:

1️⃣ Risk-taking is essential, especially when you’re young: Take big risks before major life commitments; the worst that can happen is that you start again.

2️⃣ Self-fund and reinvest for sustainable growth: Peter advocates for funding his ventures internally, allowing him full control and flexibility in decision-making.

3️⃣ Focus on ‘boomer businesses’ ripe for modernisation: Look for industries where traditional models dominate, then disrupt them with new-age approaches and tech.

4️⃣ Hire globally to get the best talent: If you’re starting today, go fully remote to access a global talent pool – and don’t be limited by your local market.

5️⃣ Use neurodiversity as your edge: Turn what others see as a setback into your superpower. Peter uses ADHD to fuel creativity and energy in his businesses.

6️⃣ Job hop with purpose: Forget the old “stay in one job” mindset. Peter says millennials are right to move around, because that’s how you find growth and better opportunities.

7️⃣ Chase freedom, not just cash: Peter’s goal isn’t just money — it’s the ability to live and work on his own terms. Prioritise freedom in your hustle.

In this episode, we cover:

00:00 Introduction to Peter Watson

03:39 Early Entrepreneurial Journey

06:23 University Ventures and Growth

08:06 Business Expansion and Global Perspective

10:27 Investment Strategies and Business Criteria

13:51 Exiting Businesses and Growth Mindset

17:36 Financial Discipline and Cash Management

24:25 Cultural Reflections: UK vs Dubai

38:09 The Power of Partnership in Business

44:15 The Love of the Game: Entrepreneurship as Sport

47:49 Hiring Your First Employee: Key Considerations

50:44 Decoupling from Founder Reliance

52:49 Millennials and Job Hopping: A New Reality

57:04 Taking Risks Before Commitments

01:00:50 Going All In vs. Side Hustles

01:02:49 The Future of Marketing: AI's Role

01:04:58 Understanding Crypto: A Double-Edged Sword

01:12:40 Personal Routines for Entrepreneurial Success

01:16:17 Embracing Neurodiversity as a Strength

01:20:59 The Importance of Being Present

01:23:33 Social Media's Impact on Mental Health

01:25:22 Managing the Next Generation

01:26:26 Legacy and the Pursuit of Happiness

01:28:20 Freedom Over Wealth

01:31:34 Remote Work vs. Office Culture

01:35:25 Peter's Book Recommendations

Millennial Masters started with a simple question: What does it really take to build something that lasts?

After 14 years of the startup grind and plenty of hard lessons along the way, I wanted to create a space where millennial founders, leaders, and entrepreneurs could share their journeys — the real ones, with all the wins, losses, and everything in between.

This podcast and newsletter is for anyone looking to skip the fluff and get straight to the actionable stuff. Every week, I sit down with the people who’ve been there, done that, and lived to tell the tale, giving you honest insights that can truly move the needle.

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Coming up from Millennial Masters ✨

* New Millennial Masters podcast episodes 🎧 🎥 drop on Sunday mornings. You’ll get the full video on the website (first dibs in your inbox), and after this intro, you’ll be able to find the audio versions on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube too (don’t worry, I’ll share the links when the first episode arrives).

* On Wednesday mornings, the Book Club 📚 brings you useful, bite-sized takeaways from classic and new business books, so you get a head start on what really matters in those pages. This will come straight to your inbox, starting with a must-know hack to read a book a week — in under two hours!

* Starting soon, I’ll be attending some of the most exciting events to connect with innovators and thought leaders, bringing you the latest insights and stories from the front lines. Check out my Events Agenda 🗓️ to see what’s coming up.

* But I’m not stopping at content. I’m building a private WhatsApp community 💬 just for paid subscribers. Whether you’re seeking feedback on a new idea, advice on scaling your business, or a no-judgment space for open conversations about entrepreneurship and career growth, this is the place for you.

* I’m also excited to start hosting exclusive in-person events and meet-ups to bring this community together in 2025. It’s about connecting, learning, and growing in real time, with people who truly get it.

Know an inspiring founder or entrepreneur who should join the conversation? I’m always on the lookout for bold stories and fresh perspectives. Drop me a line — I’d love to hear from you!

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