WUN4ALL

Ep 87 Apprenticeships with Matilda Gent, National Gas & Aimee Konieczny, WUN Advocate

In this latest WUN podcast, WUN Advocate Aimee Konieczny chats with Matilda Gent, about her experience as a Mechanical Apprentice with National Gas. Matilda Gent, is a 17-year-old Mechanical Apprentice at National Gas based at Bacton Gas Terminal, Norfolk. She is currently working towards her Level 3 Multi-Skilled Technician qualification, gaining hands-on experience while developing my engineering skills. She is passionate about STEM and dedicated to inspiring young people to pursue careers they are passionate about. Matilda has delivered presentations to employers about the value of apprenticeships and shared her experiences through interviews with Insight Energy Magazine, the Eastern Daily Press, and appearances on BBC and ITV News. Through her journey, she hopes to encourage others to explore opportunities and build fulfilling careers in STEM.

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Ep. 86 Water Efficiency Campaign with Felicity Beverley, Ofwat & Wendy Manuel, 23Red

In this episode, WUN Advocate Heidi Knapton catches up with Felicity Beverley (Ofwat) and Wendy Manuel (23red) to talk about water efficiency, in line with the new campaign 'Let's Save Water' launching across the water sector. With up to £75 million invested, they discuss building a coalition across regulators and water companies to engage customers on using less water, and how their almost all-female leadership team worked together to bring the campaign to life. Bios: Felicity Beverley is Director of Engagement and Campaigns at Ofwat, where she leads public affairs, stakeholder engagement, internal engagement and national campaigns. She has extensive experience in communications and engagement across the utilities sector, with a strong focus on building trust, fostering collaboration and delivering meaningful change. Felicity is also a passional champion of equality, diversity and inclusion, embedding inclusive leadership and engagement across her work. Wendy Manuel has extensive experience delivering behaviour change campaigns across the public and private sectors in a range of areas, including energy efficiency and climate change. Currently, Wendy is Delivery Body Lead on the Water Efficiency Campaign, Let's Save Water. Wendy turns campaign strategy into real-world activity and is responsible for coordinating campaign delivery, managing partner relationships, overseeing implementation, and ensuring the campaign achieves its water efficiency objectives through effective stakeholder engagement and performance monitoring.

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Ep. 85 Women in Water, Powered by AI: A Conversation with Melina Persson

WUN Advocate Julia Stichling speaks to Melina Persson who leads the water sector for Microsoft in the UK about women, technology and the future of water They speak about Melina's journey into the sector, why water matters (now more than ever), the role AI can play in helping the industry become more proactive and resilient, and why women need to be part of shaping that. Key messages: You do not need to be technical to have a valuable voice in digital transformation. Women across the sector already understand the customers, communities, processes and operational realities that make technology useful. That context is powerful. If AI is going to serve everyone, everyone needs a voice in shaping it. Melina Persson leads the water sector for Microsoft in the UK, working with organisations across the industry to apply technology, data, AI and security to some of the sector’s most important challenges. She also runs TechHer for Water, a programme focused on helping more women build confidence and capability in digital, cloud, AI and cyber skills. As a speaker, mentor and passionate advocate for women’s rights, diversity and inclusion, Melina regularly speaks about the role of technology, representation and skills in shaping the future of critical national infrastructure.

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Ep. 84 Demystifying Pensions with Susan Hope

In this latest WUN podcast Susan Hope chats to WUN advocate Julia Stichling Susan Hope, Business Development Director at Scottish Widows, unpacks one of the most important — and often overlooked — financial topics: pensions. We explore why pensions matter more than many people realise, the realities behind the gender pension gap, and how life events like career breaks and raising children can significantly impact long-term financial security. Susan shares practical insights on the key decisions that shape your pension outcomes, how to take control at different life stages, and what “being engaged” with your pension really looks like in practice. We also challenge common misconceptions and look ahead at how attitudes towards pensions — particularly for women — are starting to shift. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to strengthen your future plans, this conversation offers clear, actionable advice to help you take charge of your financial future Please Note Susan is not offering any pension advice but purely information only. Don’t forget to join us for the next WUNForWEllbeing – Pension Awareness Research indicates that women often prioritise spending on their homes and families over saving for their future and tend to have less confidence in investing. Factors like the gender pay gap and caregiving responsibilities significantly affect their finances. Unfortunately, most people are aware of the ‘gender pay gap’ but there is also a ‘gender pension gap’ too. On average, women have 35% less pension saving than men. Join us for this insightful workshop, in conjunction with Better with Money, to ensure you are armed with hints and tips to bridge that gap. Susan Hope is a Chartered Financial Planner and Business Development Director at Scottish Widows, where she leads a business development team focused on workplace pensions and employee engagement. With over three decades of experience in the financial services industry, Susan is a passionate champion for closing the gender pension gap and empowering women to build financial resilience. Her advocacy recently took her to the House of Lords, where she spoke on the critical importance of financial wellbeing for women across the UK. Combining personal insight with deep professional expertise, Susan is a regular contributor to both trade and consumer media. Women & Retirement Reports | Scottish Widows Scottish Widows | Invest in you

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Ep 83 Reframing Dyslexia & Irlen's Syndrome: A Different Lens, A Bigger Impact

In this latest episode, WUN Advocate Gill Edwards talks with Claire Treadwell, Director of Product Management at Everflow. Claire talks about how, when she was 21 and writing her dissertation at university, her tutor identified that she was dyslexic, after years of being mischaracterised by teachers, and feeling that she had to hide her difficulties. This identification led to an Educational Psychologist picking up on the presence of Irlen’s Syndrome, a little talked about neurological visual processing disorder that affects how the brain interprets light and visual information, causing reading difficulties, light sensitivity, and visual distortions. Claire talks about how, for her, her differences are her superpowers, and how technological advances have helped her overcome barriers both at home and in the workplace. Claire and Gill discuss the importance of male allyship, and also, as women, having the confidence to celebrate your own strengths and achievements. They talk about the power of speaking up and asking questions, and how asking for help is a positive, not a negative. Finally, they talk about how, if you see a role you fancy, you have nothing to lose and everything to gain, by applying, even if you don’t fulfil every criteria mentioned – whats the worst that can happen? https://www.irlensyndrome.org/

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Ep. 82 #WUN Finding Your Voice Offshore: Leah Clough Ørsted on Confidence & Career Growth talking with Julia Stichling, WUN Advocate

In this latest episode, WUN Advocate, Julia Stichling chats with Leah Clough, Offshore Manager at Ørsted Leah is responsible for ensuring the safe and reliable operation of 384 offshore wind turbines on the West Coast. Driven by a vision of a world powered entirely by green energy, and a strong commitment to encouraging more women and young people into the sector, Leah brings honesty and perspective to the latest WUN podcast - Finding Your Voice Offshore - Confidence & Career Growth. We talk about Leah’s time working offshore as one of very few women on wind turbines, including the realities of that experience and how she came to realise that being female was not a disadvantage. From smaller hands to different ways of problem-solving, Leah reflects on how balancing strengths rather than trying to fit a mould, helped her find her passion and ultimately progress into a management role overseeing hundreds of turbines. Leah also shares candid insights into moments where she had to speak up for herself, how her confidence grew over time, and what she has learned about advocating for your own abilities while building a career you genuinely care about.

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Ep. 81 WUNForWellbeing “Living your best life” with Anna Black & Gen Hallam

WUNForWellbeing “Living your best life” with Anna Black & Gen Hallam with WUN advocate Gill Edwards. In conjunction with our The 40's Woman & Beyond event, WUN Advocate Gill Edwards, chats with Anna Black (PT and Perimeno Coach) and Gen Hallam (Nutrition Coach) from “The 40s Woman and Beyond”. They share further valuable insights for all women on the impact of hormonal changes and offer simple lifestyle tips to support your well-being. This is a great listen with some simple advice on stress, nutrition, movement, sleep whatever your age to set you up for "living you best life." You can also catch up with Anna & Gen as they led the inciteful session - WUNForWellbeing - The 40s Woman and Beyond, including Q&A - recording now available Disclaimer: Anna Black & Gen Hallam cannot be held responsible for any injury or harm caused as a result of participation in any session or ideas you follow as a result of listening to this podcast/attending this workshop. You are taking part at your own risks and need to make sensible decisions. Check in with your GP if you have any concerns and before making changes. Anna Black, Perimenopause Coach, 40s Woman & Beyond Following a career contracting in global organisations, Anna shifted focus into the wellness industry in 2013, certifying as a Fitness Professional and then a Perimenopause Coach. In 2019 she launched 40s Woman & Beyond inspiring women to take control of their health through positive change. Anna now works with companies, recognising that empowering female employees leads to a thriving workforce and successful business. Genevieve Hallam, Nutrition Coach, 40s Woman & Beyond Gen is a certified Nutrition Coach and focuses on sustainable behaviour change by aligning nutritional strategies with clients’ goals and lifestyles. Driven by a passion to share her knowledge of perimenopause and the positive impact that nutrition can have, Gen empowers women with positive steps they can to take to thrive at this stage of their lives and careers.

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Ep. 80 - Women Role Models- Leadership Legacy and the Portfolio Path

In this latest WUN podcast WUN Co-Founder & Director Hayley Monks speaks to some other inspiring female leaders & role models, Rebecca Sedler, Managing Director of National Grid Interconnectors & former WUN Director and Monica Collins, Chair of Powerful Women and who holds several Non Exec. roles. In a far ranging & fascinating discussion they explore the evolving landscape of female leadership and the growing trend of portfolio careers among women. Are we seeing enough women stepping into visible leadership roles? Or are too many opting for flexible, multi-faceted careers that may dilute their influence in traditional leadership spaces? Key discussion points: Visibility & Impact: Do we have enough women role models in leadership across sectors—business, politics, tech, and beyond? Portfolio Careers: Why are so many women choosing portfolio careers? Is it a sign of empowerment, or a response to systemic barriers in traditional career paths? Leadership Redefined: How do portfolio careers challenge or complement conventional leadership models? Role Models for the Next Generation: What kind of role models do young women need today—and are they finding them?

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Ep 79. Women in Fitness with Femme Coaching Team, Kara Sadler & Aimee Konieczny, WUN Advocates

WUN advocates Aimee Konieczny from Indigo Swan and Kara Sadler from South Staffs and Cambridge Water chat women in fitness. They sit down with Vic and Ella from Femme Coaching - two inspiring fitness professionals dedicated to empowering women through strength and wellbeing. In this episode, we discuss: The journeys that led Vic and Ella into the world of fitness Unique challenges faced by women in the fitness industry, and how to overcome them Why strength training is so important for women (and the myths that need busting!) Practical advice for busy women who want to prioritise their health Simple changes anyone can make to feel stronger and more energised Reflections on self-worth, confidence, and what they wish they’d known sooner Victoria Mandi: As a Female Transformation Coach with over 12 years of experience, Vick has helped hundreds of women build confidence and transform their lives. Her approach focuses on creating lasting changes by tailoring training and nutrition to your unique body and goals. Together, Vick will not only work on reshaping your body with you but also on building the knowledge and habits that empower you to maintain your results and feel confident in your own skin. Ella Crouch: Ella has been coaching women for over 7 years and she works with a variety of women, but their overriding goal is wanting to empower themselves through fitness. Most of her clients want to work on their fitness, increase strength, and gain confidence however she also works with those seeking elite transformations and competitive bodybuilding. Whoever the client, the approach is tailored to their unique goal and body. Whether you’re looking for inspiration, practical tips, or just a boost of motivation, this episode is for you! For further information Website: Femme | Coaching, Workshops and Events for Strong Women Podcast: Femme Talk - Podcast - Apple Podcasts

Ep. 78 WIU Award Winner Sophia Goring, Business Stream talking with WUN Advocate, Lyvia Nabarro,

In this latest WUN podcast Sophia Goring, reflects on Business Stream’s success at the Women in Utilities Awards – winning the Best Community Outreach Award. She talks through the initiatives Business Stream has been leading in working with young people and partner organisations in their communities to provide meaningful workplace experiences and how they are inspiring more young women to consider a role in the water industry. With over 20 years’ experience of working in corporate communications and corporate social responsibility, Sophia is currently Head of Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) at UK-based water retailer, Business Stream. As part of her role, Sophia leads on the delivery of Business Stream’s sustainability agenda, which includes overseeing the company’s carbon reduction activities and delivering it’s community-based social value programme. Sophia currently works with a number of charities and social enterprises, with a particular focus on supporting young people. She sits on the Career Ready Edinburgh, Mid-Lothian and East Lothian Local Authority Board to support the charity’s strategic aims and is a mentor through the Women’s Utilities Network (WUN) mentoring programme. Please do get in touch if you are interested in receiving information regarding the 2026 Women in Utilities Awards, hosted in conjunction with Utility Week. Helen@thewun.co.uk

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Ep. 77 Neurodiversity - Sarah Wilson, Learning & Development at Valda Energy chats with WUN Advocate, Kerris Mackley

In this episode , we are joined by Sarah Wilson from Valda Energy to reflect on her journey being diagnosed with ADHD. From her journey at school and throughout her career, we discuss what it was like to navigate work and daily life without a clear understanding of neurodiversity, exploring the personal challenges and emotions that came with that experience. We discuss where individuals, managers, and teams can turn for reliable resources and support, and highlight the benefits that emerge when workplaces genuinely embrace neurodiverse talent. Listen in to gain valuable insights into Sarah's journey and what businesses across utilities can do to create more inclusive environments and provide meaningful support for neurodiverse employees at every stage of their careers.

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Ep. 76 #WUNCareerStories - Sal Watson, Water Utilities Development Manager, Mott McDonald talking with Julia Stichling, WUN Advocate

In this WUN Podcast episode, Julia Stichling speaks with Sal Watson from Mott MacDonald about her journey from geology student to industry leader. Sal reflects on her academic and consultancy experience, including major projects like the London 2012 Olympics, and her current role shaping strategy at Mott MacDonald and as a non-executive director at British Water. Sal reflected on developing her leadership skills during part-time working years, drawing on experience as a school governor and committing to continual learning. Looking ahead, Sal and Julia discussed long-term planning in the water industry, the pressures of increased investment demands, the need for industrialised project delivery, and building public trust amid climate concerns. In the podcast they touch on the urgency of addressing the sector’s talent pipeline and increasing public awareness of water systems.

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Ep 75. Worn Out Working Mum AKA Laura talking with Heidi Knapton, South Staffs & Cambridge Water

In this podcast, WUN advocate Heidi Knapton , South Staffs & Cambridge Water speaks to Laura AKA ‘Worn Out Working Mum’ on all things maternity and work. Whether you’re navigating your own parenting journey or an employer on a mission to get this right – we are discussing it all! An authentic discussion around every aspect of ‘the motherhood penalty’ and how best to navigate, with top tips and shared experiences shared along the way”.

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Ep. 74 Leading Change in Energy with Georgina Mills from OFGEM talking with Karen Anderson, Business Development Manager at WUN.

In this episode of the WUN podcast, WUN Programme Development Manager Karen Anderson is joined by Georgina Mills, Director of Energy Systems Management and Security at OFGEM. Georgina shares insights from her impressive career spanning the UK water and energy sectors, including her time at Ofwat and the New Zealand Commerce Commission. Georgina shares insights on the complex challenges facing the energy sector—from affordability to the drive for net zero—and how OFGEM is responding through innovation, regulatory reform and leadership. Georgina highlights the potential of demand-side flexibility and the importance of removing barriers to progress. The conversation also delves into diversity and inclusion, flexible working and how OFGEM is supporting its staff. Georgina reflects on her leadership style and the cultural shifts needed to lead through uncertainty in a rapidly changing industry. This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the future of energy, leadership and inclusive growth.

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Ep. 73 Ramona Vlasiu (Pergel) COO at E.ON Next and winner of the GBB Utilities Woman of the Year Award chats with Jo Butlin, WUN Founder & Director.

Ramona Vlasiu (Pergel) is Chief Operating Officer of E.ON Next . She won Utilities Business Woman of the Year at the Great British Businesswomen Awards in January 2025 and she is also a finalist in the Women in Utilities Awards in June. In this podcast Jo Butlin, WUN Founder & Director chats about what winning the Business Women of the Year award means to Ramona. We discuss her career journey to date, which started in legal services before she moved into E.ON Romania and then moved with E.ON from Romania to the UK, where she has now settled with her family. Ramona talks about her style of leadership and the importance to her of culture and team. We also discuss the challenges of having a high flying career at the same time as being a mother of young children. NOTE : 27/06/25 Ramona was also announced as the Women of the Year at the Women in Utilities Awards.

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Ep 72. WUNforALL session - How can we practically support others in the workplace – and help them #SpeakUp

We hear from the inspiring Lee Chambers Founder and CEO of Male Allies UK, who shared some great insight around his own observation & experience of Allyship & how we all an can “ combine, unite & bring together “ Our panellists were Joshua Ketley, WRc Group and Institute of Water Rising Star 2025, Halyma Begum, Calisen & Keri Handford Cadent who shared some great practical tips to enable us all to #Speak UP . Expertly chaired by WUN advocate Julia Stichling, R2M .

Ep 71 #WUNCareerStores - Nuclear Power - How Operational Power Stations Provide Opportunities for Women

"Operational nuclear isn’t all about radioactive rods and scientists; there is a whole village of people that make power stations safely contribute to the UK’s energy mix." In this latest WUN podcast Aimee Konieczny, WUN Advocate and Commercial Director at Indigo Swan, talks to Caroline Burgess, Enablement Manager – Single Integrated Delivery Organisation at EDF Energy’s Sizewell B Nuclear Power Station, about Caroline’s varied career across renewables, oil and gas, and most recently nuclear, and the skills she has learned and can now put into practice on a nationally important infrastructure site. Caroline talks about the variety of roles available on power stations, living and working in a rural county and how she’s learned to deal with being the lone female voice in various male-dominated industries.

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Ep.70 #WUNCareerStories - Nicole McNab, Southern Water - Rising Star Award Winner at WiU talking with Kerris Mackley, WUN Advocate

WUN Advocate Kerris Mackley chats to Nicole McNab, the 2024 Women in Utilities Rising Start Winner, discussing the importance of owning your own career – stop waiting for other people to do it for you. Also discussed in this episode is the need to be authentic, that it is ok to have ups and downs, and that the key to successful recruiting is finding people that care! Nicole is Head of Strategic Partnerships at Southern Water. Joining the industry three years ago into the newly formed Clean Rivers and Seas Task Force, a dedicated team delivering innovative solutions to sustainably reduce storm overflows. Nicole has tackled overflow reduction head on, building new partnerships with councils, businesses, schools and campaign groups, while refusing to accept “that is just the way things are done”. Her ability to translate complex topics to the public, while delivering multi-million-pound schemes at pace, earnt her the Rising Star Award 2024 at the Women in Utilities Awards. Her team also won the Partnership/Alliance Project of the Year at the Water Industry Awards, for installing SuDS in almost 100 schools across the south within 18 months. Find out more about Women in Utilities Awards 2025- including hearing from other past winners, how to book ceremony tickets or sponsorship opportunities. Nicole is also joining the panel - What Future Leaders Want from Today’s Leaders: Attracting and Retaining Talent, 24 April, 2025, 11AM, BST. Hear from a panel of future leaders from across the sector as they share their insights on the policies, cultures, and leadership approaches that make an employer truly stand out to the next generation of women in utilities. Free tickets

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Ep. 69 How Can the UK Keep Pace with Renewable Technology Development to Net Zero 2050

The UK is on a Net Zero journey, and Technological advances in both Grid and Data are looking to impact when and how we get to Net Zero in 2050. In this podcast, WUN Advocate and PPA manager at Inspired PLC- Karen Hosking, brings together a panel of leaders in this field to discuss the challenges and opportunities this brings and also how working with technology, embracing AI, and working in diverse Teams can drive us to Net Zero and a grid fit for future generations. Our panel for this fascinating podcast: Claire Dykta NESO- National Energy System Operator -Director Strategy and Policy Claire Mack Scottish Renewables - Chief Executive Nicole Alley Capgemini - Head of UK Renewables Linda Cuming EDF Renewables - Portfolio Manager Onshore Wind Note: Investment in AI is set at 2Bn over 3 years – more details on Nicole's insight can be found here: Top Tech Trends of 2025 | Capgemini

Ep 68 Careers with Jen Hughes & Jodie Williams, Marketing Pod talking with Lyvia Nabarro, WUN Advocate

WUN Advocate, Lyvia Nabarro, is joined by seasoned marketing professionals Jen Hughes and Jodie Williams. Jen and Jodie set up their multi-award-winning marketing agency, The Marketing Pod, 11 years ago. In this podcast we explore what it’s like to take the leap and start your own business, the lessons they learnt from the utilities sector and the difference they wanted to make for their teams and the positive changes they want to see in the industry.