Recorded live at this year’s National Cyber Awards, the Unrecognised Heroes in Tech podcast episode, hosted by Gordon Corera, brought together some of the UK’s leading cybersecurity experts for a dynamic and thought-provoking discussion. 

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The episode dives into the power of partnership across sectors, the ongoing recruitment drive shaping the industry, and what the threat landscape truly looks and feels like for those on the front line. 

It’s a must-listen for anyone interested in the realities of UK cyber today - a reminder not to lose sight of the incredible progress and innovation happening across the field amidst the current noise within the cybersecurity sphere.

In this insightful episode, Elle sits down with Tom Hewitson, CEO and Chief AI Officer of General Purpose: AI Training, to unpack the realities of AI adoption - from its challenges in the workplace to its broader impact on society.

Tom shares the story behind the evolution of his company and why a human-centric approach is essential for organisations embracing AI. Together, they explore the importance of digital literacy, the need for psychological safety when integrating new technologies, and how culture plays a critical role in successful innovation.

The discussion also highlights the AI Adoption Award, celebrating progress in this rapidly changing space, and dives into the ethical and social dimensions of how AI is reshaping the way we live and work.

In this insightful episode, Elle sits down with Tom Hewitson, CEO and Chief AI Officer of General Purpose: AI Training, to unpack the realities of AI adoption - from its challenges in the workplace to its broader impact on society.

Tom shares the story behind the evolution of his company and why a human-centric approach is essential for organisations embracing AI. Together, they explore the importance of digital literacy, the need for psychological safety when integrating new technologies, and how culture plays a critical role in successful innovation.

The discussion also highlights the AI Adoption Award, celebrating progress in this rapidly changing space, and dives into the ethical and social dimensions of how AI is reshaping the way we live and work.

In this thought-provoking episode, Elle is joined by Dr. Genevieve Bartuski, PsyD, MBA, for a powerful discussion that bridges the worlds of psychology, ethics, and technology.

With a career spanning forensic psychology, crisis intervention, and AI ethics consulting, Genevieve shares her unique perspective on why mental health, privacy, and trust must sit at the heart of technological innovation. Together, they explore how psychologists are becoming vital voices in the tech industry, helping to shape safer, more ethical digital environments.

The conversation delves into critical issues such as trust and safety by design, user education around manipulation in digital spaces, and the complex challenge of defining and mitigating online harms. Genevieve also emphasises the importance of diverse voices in shaping technology policy that truly serves society.

In this thought-provoking episode, Elle is joined by Dr. Genevieve Bartuski, PsyD, MBA, for a powerful discussion that bridges the worlds of psychology, ethics, and technology.

With a career spanning forensic psychology, crisis intervention, and AI ethics consulting, Genevieve shares her unique perspective on why mental health, privacy, and trust must sit at the heart of technological innovation. Together, they explore how psychologists are becoming vital voices in the tech industry, helping to shape safer, more ethical digital environments.

The conversation delves into critical issues such as trust and safety by design, user education around manipulation in digital spaces, and the complex challenge of defining and mitigating online harms. Genevieve also emphasises the importance of diverse voices in shaping technology policy that truly serves society.

In this week’s episode, Elle is joined by Sophie Powell, co-founder of Cyberwoman Group CIC, for an uplifting and empowering conversation about community, mentorship, and authenticity in cybersecurity.

With an unexpected start in chemistry, Sophie shares how she found her calling in cyber -  and how mentorship and community support helped her navigate the challenges of breaking into the industry.

From founding a purpose-driven organisation to winning at The National Cyber Awards, her journey is a testament to passion, perseverance, and the power of lifting others up along the way.

Together, Elle and Sophie dive into key lessons about balancing passion projects with a career, the highs and lows of starting a business, and why building genuine, human connections is the foundation of long-term success.

In this week’s episode, Elle is joined by Sophie Powell, co-founder of Cyberwoman Group CIC, for an uplifting and empowering conversation about community, mentorship, and authenticity in cybersecurity.

With an unexpected start in chemistry, Sophie shares how she found her calling in cyber -  and how mentorship and community support helped her navigate the challenges of breaking into the industry.

From founding a purpose-driven organisation to winning at The National Cyber Awards, her journey is a testament to passion, perseverance, and the power of lifting others up along the way.

Together, Elle and Sophie dive into key lessons about balancing passion projects with a career, the highs and lows of starting a business, and why building genuine, human connections is the foundation of long-term success.

In this captivating episode, Elle sits down with Racheal Muldoon, Partner at Charles Russell Speechlys, to explore her unconventional path into cyber law — a journey shaped by mentorship, resilience, and a passion for technology’s legal frontier.

Beginning her career in criminal law, Racheal shares how her curiosity for emerging technologies led her to specialise in digital assets, cybersecurity, and regulatory frameworks. She opens up about the mentors who guided her along the way and how winning a National Cyber Award became a defining moment that helped propel her toward partnership.

From navigating AI-powered cyber threats to advising clients on the legal complexities of the digital age, Racheal offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at one of the most dynamic and fast-evolving areas of modern law.

In this captivating episode, Elle sits down with Racheal Muldoon, Partner at Charles Russell Speechlys, to explore her unconventional path into cyber law — a journey shaped by mentorship, resilience, and a passion for technology’s legal frontier.

Beginning her career in criminal law, Racheal shares how her curiosity for emerging technologies led her to specialise in digital assets, cybersecurity, and regulatory frameworks. She opens up about the mentors who guided her along the way and how winning a National Cyber Award became a defining moment that helped propel her toward partnership.

From navigating AI-powered cyber threats to advising clients on the legal complexities of the digital age, Racheal offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at one of the most dynamic and fast-evolving areas of modern law.

In this inspiring episode, Elle is joined by Rob Black for an open and insightful conversation about leadership, confidence, and the human side of cybersecurity.

With a career that’s anything but traditional, Rob shares his journey from national security to becoming a respected leader in cyber - proving that there’s no single path into the industry. His story highlights how diverse backgrounds and soft skills can be just as powerful as technical expertise.

Together, they explore the importance of tackling imposter syndrome, building community, and empowering others as the foundation of effective leadership. Rob also shines a light on initiatives like the UK Cyber Leaders Challenge, which are helping to inspire and develop the next generation of cyber leaders.