You Must Be Woking

In this episode, Craig and Dawn explore recent controversies and trends in diversity, inclusion, workplace culture, and societal attitudes, including discussions on racism, ageism, homophobia, and organizational restructuring. They analyze high-profile cases and share insights on how organizations can navigate these complex issues with honesty and integrity.

In this episode, we explore recent news stories and societal issues, including police conduct, social media regulation, Pride Month controversies, and leadership challenges in organizations. Join us for honest insights and practical advice on navigating complex topics in today's world.

Coaching vs Mentoring: The Leadership Superpower We’re Still Underusing

In this Mentoring May special edition of You Must Be Woking, Dawn and Craig dive into one of the most requested topics from our listeners: the real difference between coaching and mentoring - and why both are becoming essential tools for inclusive, high‑performing organisations.

Drawing on lived experience, global research and years of running coaching and mentoring programmes, they explore:

• The actual difference between coaching and mentoring (and why the language matters)
• Why nearly half of organisations are now investing in coaching and mentoring
• The myths that stop leaders from engaging with coaching
• How empathy, listening and deeper connection unlock performance
• Why coaching accelerates leadership transitions and prevents derailment
• The power of structured mentoring programmes - and the retention impact they can create
• Real‑world examples of coaching and mentoring transforming culture, confidence and capability

You’ll also hear powerful reflections from leaders who’ve experienced coaching first‑hand - including how it helped them move from good instincts to strategic instincts, and from navigating complexity to mastering it.

Whether you’re a leader, a mentor, a coach, or someone stepping into something new, this episode will reshape how you think about growth, performance and inclusive leadership.

Lesley Brodie, Vice President at DHL Supply Chain, shares her journey in logistics, leadership challenges, and insights on authenticity, giving back, and supporting women in leadership. This episode explores the trade-offs of career growth, the importance of staying true to oneself, and the impact of COVID on leadership dynamics.

Lesley Brodie | LinkedIn

(2) DHL Supply Chain: Posts | LinkedIn

DHL Supply Chain – The world’s leading contract logistics provider - United Kingdom

In this insightful interview, Sam Brook, Group HR Director at Severfield Field PLC, shares her journey through leadership, gender equality, and the impact of mentorship. Discover how her experiences and initiatives are shaping a more inclusive workplace and empowering women in traditionally male-dominated industries.

In this episode, Jules McKittrick, Chief Risk and Compliance Officer at Summer, shares her journey through diverse roles, the importance of voice and allyship in leadership, and insights on fostering inclusive cultures during acquisitions.

This episode launches our Podcast Mini Series to celebrate International Women's Day 2026.
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Hosts Craig Richards & Dawn Hurst interviews guest Amy Barnes who shares her journey through leadership, the challenges women face in the workplace, and the importance of authenticity and giving back. She discusses breaking barriers, the value of vulnerability, and how to support the next generation of women leaders.

In this episode, Dawn & Craig explore the critical role of workplace culture in organizational success, discussing how outdated cultural infrastructures can hinder performance and lead to toxic environments. They analyze real-world examples, including the Ministry of Defence and Manchester United, to illustrate the consequences of neglecting cultural transformation. The conversation emphasizes the importance of psychological safety, transparency, and proactive leadership in fostering a positive workplace culture. Practical steps for cultural change are provided, alongside insights from listener questions.

A look back at the year in review, which also celebrates a year of You Must Be Woking too! Craig & Dawn talk about their viral moments, guests and hand out awards too. Check it Out.

The impact of cultural narratives on workplace dynamics.
Systemic issues in organizations often stem from leadership challenges.
The importance of addressing sexism and misogyny in politics.
Military institutions face significant challenges with bullying and harassment.
The Met Police's policy changes reflect broader societal debates on hate speech.
Portugal's right to disconnect raises questions about state intervention in workplace culture.
Cultural acknowledgements can be performative without genuine understanding.
Disney's backlash highlights the complexities of representation in media.
Personal stories can humanize contentious topics like pronouns.
Effective leadership requires ongoing education and adaptation to modern challenges.

Summary

In this episode of 'You Must Be Woking,' hosts Craig Richards and Dawn Hurst delve into various current events and cultural issues, exploring their implications on workplace dynamics and societal norms. They discuss the BBC series 'Riot Women,' the ejection of Nuala McAllister from the Northern Ireland Assembly, and the Ministry of Defence's bullying claims. The conversation also touches on the Met Police's policy changes regarding hate crimes, Portugal's right to disconnect law, and the cultural acknowledgements made by Canadian airlines. Additionally, they analyze the backlash against Disney's new short film 'Versa' and the importance of pronouns in personal identity, emphasizing the need for education and understanding in addressing these complex topics.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Woke News and Current Events
02:41 Exploring the BBC Series 'Riot Women'
15:30 Discussion on Sexism and Misogyny in Politics
23:50 Military Culture and Bullying in the MOD
31:13 Assurance Over Accreditation
33:48 Policy Shifts in Law Enforcement
37:12 Values and Workplace Culture
42:19 The Pendulum of Free Speech
43:39 The Right to Disconnect
49:02 Cultural Acknowledgements in Canada
54:03 Performative Actions vs. Genuine Change
56:46 The Power of Storytelling in Identity