The Culture Colonel

Jane Oremosu and Dr Maggie Semple are hugely successful businesswomen and thought-leaders on cultural change, inclusion and ethics with a focus on leadership development and governance. They are authors of My Little Black Book: A Blacktionary, - a pocket guide to the language of race.

Jane and Maggie entertain and educate in equal measure. Both are hugely successful businesswomen with extensive corporate experience and acumen. They both exude warmth, wisdom and passion. They are motivated, through purposeful work, to help and support other leaders through learning.

Join host Lindsay MacDuff as they discuss importance of the language of race, how it evolves and they offer practical tips for everyone. They also consider the need for leaders to create the right space for reasonable and safe challenge. Listen as they explain their thoughts and ideas on behavioural change and the need for accountable and responsible actions by leaders at all levels.

Above all Jane and Maggie radiate happiness and their brightness shines through.

We’d love to hear your thoughts email [email protected]

Follow Jane and Maggie on LinkedIn

https://www.linkedin.com/in/jane-oremosu-b8672411/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/maggie-semple-obe-fcgi-97481997/

And on X:

https://twitter.com/jane_oremosu

Jane and Maggie's company: Professional Business Management Consultancy | I-Cubed Group | England

Follow Lindsay: linkedin.com/in/lindsay-macduff 

Quotations:

“Leadership is about making others better as a result of your presence and making sure that impact lasts in your absence” – Sheryl Sandberg

BFBS Creative is an award-winning, non-profit, creative agency. We specialise in helping the Armed Forces, Defence and government tell their story. If you want to learn more about us – visit our website: https://creative.bfbs.com/ 

Email:[email protected]

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Gemma Morgan recounts her journey from a promising young army officer to a survivor of severe trauma. Her book, Pink Camouflage, exposes the harsh realities she faced, including PTSD from her Kosovo deployment and a traumatic assault by a fellow soldier. Gemma shares her experiences of neglect and stigma within the military, calling for urgent cultural change and better support systems. She discusses the importance of surrounding oneself with compassionate individuals and the impact of genuine kindness during times of crisis. 

Now a seasoned leadership consultant, Gemma emphasizes the value of appropriate vulnerability in leadership and the need for systemic improvements in mental health support. Hosted by Lindsay MacDuff, this episode offers a deeply moving exploration of Gemma’s resilience and advocacy.

Support:

If you've found it particularly difficult to listen to Gemma's story, and need some support, or you know of someone who may be in need of some help, there's a list of organisations who can offer that help on our website: Audience Support | BFBS

Resources: 

The Sarah Atherton Inquiry: Protecting Those Who Protect Us: Women in the Armed Forces from Recruitment to Civilian Life

Women in the Armed Forces Follow up - late 2023: Women in the Armed Forces: Follow-Up (2023)

General Patrick Sanders excellent “It’s time to talk” video: It's time to talk by General Sir Patrick Sanders

Follow Gemma: 

linkedin.com

instagram.com

x.com

Follow Lindsay: linkedin.com/in/lindsay-macduff 

BFBS Creative is an award-winning, non-profit, creative agency. We specialise in helping the Armed Forces, Defence and government tell their story. If you want to learn more about us – visit our website: https://creative.bfbs.com/ 

Email:[email protected]

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Fiona Blyth shares her remarkable journey from serving with the British Army to her roles as His Majesty’s Ambassador to Mongolia and working with the United Nations. Fiona reveals how embracing risks and stepping into uncertainty have shaped her professional life and leadership approach.  

She reflects on the challenges and growth that come with pursuing life-changing opportunities, emphasising that while these risks may feel daunting at the time, they lead to invaluable experiences and deeper appreciation of others. Fiona’s steely determination and optimism shine through as she discusses the importance of creating high-performing teams and understanding people to get the best from them. 

Join Lindsay MacDuff as he explores Fiona’s extraordinary leadership journey, highlighting how facing challenges head-on can lead to profound personal and professional growth. 

We’d love to hear your thoughts at [email protected]  

About Fiona: 

creative.bfbs.com/fostering-inclusivity-military 

Change of His Majesty’s Ambassador to Mongolia: Fiona Blyth

Interview With UK Ambassador to Mongolia Fiona Blyth – The Diplomat

Follow Fiona Blyth: 

LinkedIn:   https://www.linkedin.com/in/fiona-blyth-66874753

X:  x.com/FionaBlythUK

Follow Lindsay MacDuff 

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lindsay-macduff

Instagram: instagram.com/lindsaymacduff

X: x.com/Scruff4284 

BFBS Creative is an award-winning, non-profit, creative agency. We specialise in helping the Armed Forces, Defence and government tell their story. Visit our website: creative.bfbs.com/

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Rabbi Samuel Landau is an Orthodox Jewish Rabbi and clinical psychologist who has recently worked with the British Army’s “Desert Rats” on cultural and behavioural change. Today he delves into the importance of traditions while highlighting the need to adapt them to fit modern society. He discusses the challenges of navigating complex issues with humour and humility, reflecting on the futility of trying to please everyone. 

Rabbi Samuel emphasises the power of mobilising a critical mass for meaningful change, focusing on the 50% in the uncertain middle to drive cultural shifts. He also tackles the profound impact of bullying and the importance of understanding over judgement. This episode offers a deep dive into real experiences, the power of storytelling, and the paradox of being both a clinical psychologist and a Rabbi. 

Join Lindsay MacDuff as he uncovers these thoughtful insights with Rabbi Samuel Landau, providing valuable lessons for anyone interested in leadership, personal growth, and societal change. 

We’d love to hear your thoughts at [email protected]  

Thank you for listening and take care until next time! 

Quotations: 

“Tradition is peer pressure from dead people” Unattributed 

“Every wind is an ill wind if you don't know which port you're sailing to” – Seneca 

“For with you is the source of life; in your light do we see light” – (Mekor Chayim scripture) 

“Those that bring the sunshine to the lives of others cannot keep it from themselves.” – JM Barrie 

Follow Samuel: 

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/samuel-landau

Someone Else's Eyes https://www.someoneelseseyes.com/

Follow Lindsay: 

linkedin.com/in/lindsay-macduff 

BFBS Creative is an award-winning, non-profit, creative agency. We specialise in helping the Armed Forces, Defence and government tell their story. 

If you want to learn more about us – visit our website: https://creative.bfbs.com/ 

Please feel free to email The Culture Colonel at: [email protected]  

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Steve Prest is a recently retired Royal Navy Commodore. A leader renowned for his commitment to putting people first, Steve delves into the challenges of strategic leadership and the vital role of a growth mindset in fostering an empowering culture. 

He shares insights on how humility and self-confidence are crucial for rewarding team efforts and building a resilient organisation. Steve discusses the importance of preparing the next generation of leaders to surpass their predecessors, creating an environment where everyone can thrive. We explore themes of belonging, psychological safety, and the importance of finding purpose and meaningful work post-military service.

What makes you feel that you belong? Email us [email protected] 

Quotations: 

“You must never confuse faith that you will prevail in the end - which you can never afford to lose - with the discipline to confront the most brutal facts of your current reality, whatever they might be.” - James Stockdale 

“It is better to travel hopefully than to arrive” – Robert Louis Stevenson 

Books Referenced: 

“The Infinite Game” by Simon Sinek 

“Good to Great” by Jim Collins 

“The Rules of the Game: Jutland and British Naval Command” by Andrew Gordon 

Steve's articles:

The Case for Inclusive Leadership

Marching with Pride

Follow Steve Prest: 

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/steveprest  

Instagram: instagram.com/fightingsailor

X: x.com/fightingsailor   

BFBS Creative is an award-winning, non-profit, creative agency. We specialise in helping the Armed Forces, Defence and government tell their story. 

If you want to learn more about us – visit our website: creative.bfbs.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Adam Powney—a dedicated army reservist, social media manager, and openly gay man—reveals his transformative journey from a sensitive, artistic young man unsure about fitting into the military to finding his place and thriving in an environment where he once thought he didn’t belong.  

Reflecting on the advice he would give his 18-year-old self, Adam emphasises the importance of being true to who you are in the moment and not being overly concerned with others' opinions.  

Listen as Lindsay MacDuff, The Culture Colonel, explores Adam's personal evolution, from the unexpected relief of coming out to the realisation that respect and mutual understanding can bridge seemingly vast differences. Adam shares the pivotal role of his values—create, serve and hope—in shaping his career and personal life, and reflects on how embracing his true self has empowered him to contribute positively both at work and in his wider community. Join Lindsay and Adam as they discuss how coming alive and being genuine can lead to a more meaningful and impactful life.

What are the values that make you come alive? Let us know by emailing [email protected] 

If you know someone who could benefit from Adam's story, share this episode with them. 

Thank you for listening and take care until next time!

Quotations: 

“Every action you take is a vote for the type of person you wish to be” - James Clear (author of Atomic Habits) 

“Don't ask what the world needs. Ask yourself what makes you come alive, and go do that, because what the world needs is people who have come alive.” - Howard Thurman 

“Be fearless in the pursuit of what sets your soul on fire“ - Jennifer Lee

Follow Adam Powney: 

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/adampowney

Instagram: instagram.com/adampowney

X: x.com/adampowney

Follow Lindsay: linkedin.com/in/lindsay-macduff

BFBS Creative is an award-winning, non-profit, creative agency. We specialise in helping the Armed Forces, Defence and government tell their story. 

If you want to learn more about us – visit our website: Creative.bfbs.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Major Rosie Wild reflects on her historic achievement as the first woman to pass the parachute regiment's demanding P Company test in 2020. She candidly discusses how she followed a trail blazed by previous women who attempted and struggled with the course, honouring their pioneering efforts. Rosie emphasizes her gratitude for their sacrifices and the path they paved, and she celebrates the progress made by women who came after her. 

Rosie’s journey through P Company was marked by overcoming significant physical and mental challenges. From battling injuries at Sandhurst to enduring the rigorous demands of the course, she highlights the profound lessons learned through adversity. Her story delves into the stigma of injury, the psychological hurdles of being in rehabilitation, and the resilience required to persevere. With humility and insight, Rosie shares the importance of inspiring others through action and pursuing one’s passions, regardless of the outcome. 

Lindsay and Rosie discuss how the unexpected can give valuable inspiration for leaders at all levels and underscores the power of mental resilience and genuine leadership. 

We’d love to hear your thoughts email us at [email protected]  

Thank you for listening and take care until next time! 

Quotations: 

“Be strong, you never know who you are inspiring” – Rosie’s calendar quotation for 12 February 2020 (during P Company) 

“I was taught that the way of progress was neither swift nor easy.” - Marie Curie 

“If you’re the smartest person in the room, you are in the wrong room.” – attributed to a number of people 

Books Referenced: 

“The Obstacle is the Way” - Ryan Holiday 

Follow Rosie Wild

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rosie-wild 

Instagram: instagram.com/rosierunningwild

X: x.com/RosieWild91  

Follow Lindsay MacDuff: linkedin.com/in/lindsay-macduff

BFBS Creative is an award-winning, non-profit, creative agency. We specialise in helping the Armed Forces, Defence and government tell their stories

If you want to learn more about us – visit our website: creative.bfbs.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

BFBS Creative presents ‘The Culture Colonel,’ a series dedicated to exploring leadership within the Armed Forces and Defence sector.

Hosted by retired Army Colonel and now Creative’s Head of Inclusion Lindsay MacDuff, who has spent years involved in leadership, cultural and behavioural change in Defence, each episode features informal yet insightful conversations with guests who share their leadership journeys, achievements and lessons learned along the way.

This series highlights the growth and development of current service members but also delves into how veterans continue to apply their leadership skills beyond their military careers.

You can expect heartwarming and candid conversations that showcase the human side of leadership.

While rooted in military experience, these insights apply to leaders in all walks of life. Whether in corporate management, non-profit organisations, or entrepreneurial ventures, the lessons shared will inspire, encourage, and inform leadership journeys, helping leaders foster the right culture among their teams.

Drop us an email: [email protected]

What we do: creative.bfbs.com

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.