Leadership and Culture First

About Leadership and Culture First

We believe leadership and culture come first if teams and organisations are to thrive. But it is not simple. We discuss the complexities of leadership and culture but also offer solutions to aspiring, new and experienced leaders. We invite guest to share their knowledge and experience and ask those challenging questions. As coaches we aim to provide real insights, enable reflection and challenge thinking. Join us on our mission to unleash your leadership potential.

Publisher

Axis Culture Group

Category

business

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

31 Oct 2025

Latest episode

28 Sept 2026

Latest episodes

17 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   28 Sept 2026

   When Leadership Comes With Too Much Responsibility

   Leadership Biscuits returns with a conversation about leadership, regulation and the often overlooked realities of managing in health and social care. This episode features Steve Watson, founder of Nursing Management Consultancy Services, who brings more than two decades of experience across nursing, NHS leadership, regulation and social care. Steve shares what he learned from the ward sisters who shaped his early leadership, his experience as a responsible individual in social care, and why supporting managers is just as important as holding them accountable. The conversation explores: Why registered managers can feel like they are working alone The importance of mentoring, support and professional networks Why health and social care needs to develop its own future leaders The problem of the "accidental manager" How we can better connect NHS services and social care Why the public needs better information about social care and the choices available What we risk losing when experienced nurses and professionals leave the workforce How leadership experience and knowledge can be passed on to the next generation Why good governance and systems matter more than simply worrying about inspections and ratings Steve's leadership biscuit at the end of the episode is simple: Focus on your governance, focus on your systems and focus on getting the care right. The rest will follow. A thoughtful conversation about what leadership really looks like when the responsibility is real, the systems are complicated and there is rarely a perfect day.

2. 

   2 Sept 2026

   What Happens When AI Joins the Leadership Team?

   AI is already changing the way we work, make decisions, learn and deliver healthcare. But what does that actually mean for leaders? In this episode of Leadership Biscuits, Sharon is joined by Michael Rowe, Associate Professor of Digital Innovation in Health and Social Care at the University of Lincoln, to explore what leaders need to understand about AI and where it could take organisations next. Michael argues that AI should not simply be seen as a technology project to be handed over to IT. It has the potential to influence decision-making, workflows, governance, education and patient care, meaning leaders need to be much more directly involved in understanding what it can do. They discuss: • Why AI is fundamentally different from previous technology changes • How leaders can use AI as a thinking partner rather than simply a productivity tool • Whether AI will actually replace jobs in healthcare • Why AI could augment healthcare professionals rather than simply replace them • The potential impact of AI on patient empowerment and access to care • Why universities need to rethink how they approach AI and assessment • How AI could help organisations identify inefficient processes and bottlenecks • Why leaders should encourage experimentation rather than create a culture of fear • The danger of measuring AI adoption simply by how much AI people use • Why leaders need to understand AI themselves rather than relying entirely on consultants • What an organisation built around "intelligence as a service" could look like One of the biggest questions running through the conversation is simple: are we preparing our organisations and our people for the world that is actually coming? Michael's answer is clear: leaders cannot afford to simply talk about AI. They need to start experimenting with it, learning from it and understanding where it can genuinely add value. And, as Michael admits himself, the really interesting part might be looking back at this conversation in five years' time and seeing just how wrong we were.

3. 

   21 May 2026

   When Your Career No Longer Fits

   What happens when the career you built no longer feels like the right fit? In this episode of Leadership and Culture First, Sharon Black and Nichola Ashby are joined by executive career coach Anna Hewitt to explore the emotional and practical reality of career change, particularly in mid-career. Together, they discuss redundancy, difficult exits, confidence, courage, identity, values, and the challenge of rebuilding when work no longer feels aligned. Anna shares why career change is not about starting from scratch, but about recognising the experience, skills and relationships you already have. The conversation also explores how shame, fear and self-doubt can hold people back, why confidence often comes after action rather than before it, and how self-compassion can be the first step towards moving forward. A thoughtful and honest conversation for anyone questioning their next step, navigating change, or trying to build a career that feels more meaningful and sustainable.

4. 

   22 Apr 2026

   When Work Gets Tough: Leading Through Change and Uncertainty

   What does leadership really look like when everything feels uncertain? In this episode of Leadership and Culture First, Sharon Black is joined by Professor Paul Gill, Dean and Head of School of Health Sciences at the University of Nottingham, to explore the reality of leading through change, uncertainty, and pressure. From managing organisational change and difficult decisions to supporting teams while protecting your own wellbeing, Paul shares honest reflections on the hidden weight of leadership. Together, they discuss the emotional impact of leadership, the importance of psychological safety, compassionate communication, and why great leaders do not always need to have all the answers. This conversation is a powerful reminder that leadership is not about perfection, but presence, reflection, and creating trust when people need it most. Topics covered: • Leading teams through uncertainty and organisational change • The emotional toll leadership can take behind the scenes • Why psychological safety matters in workplace culture • Balancing authenticity with confidence as a leader • Supporting and developing the next generation of leaders • Knowing which battles to fight and when to step back If you are navigating pressure at work, leading change, or supporting others through uncertainty, this episode is for you. Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share with someone who needs this conversation.

5. 

   8 Apr 2026

   Why Leadership Feels So Hard Right Now (And What To Do About It)

   Leadership has never felt more complex. You’re expected to deliver results, manage people, adapt to constant change and somehow have all the answers… all at the same time. But what happens when you don’t? In this episode, we’re joined by Eileen Wilson, business coach and former founder, who brings real-world insight from building, scaling and exiting a company. Together, we explore why leadership feels harder than ever and what’s actually going on beneath the surface. We dive into: Why leaders feel overwhelmed and under pressure The tension between data, performance and people What the future of leadership really looks like Why you don’t need to have all the answers How to build confident, collaborative teams This is an honest conversation about the reality of leadership today. The uncertainty, the responsibility and the quiet moments where even experienced leaders question themselves. If you’ve ever felt stuck, stretched or unsure in your role as a leader, this episode is for you.

6. 

   25 Mar 2026

   Find Your Fit or Burn Out Trying: Leadership, Culture and Courage

   What if the problem isn’t you… but the environment you’re in? In this episode of Leadership and Culture First, Sharon Black and Dr Nichola Ashby are joined by Katie Gooblar and Rebecca “Bex” Herbert from Rebel Hive for a powerful conversation on leadership, culture and finding where you truly fit. Together, they explore what it really means to lead through complexity, challenge outdated systems and build environments where people can thrive, not just survive. From navigating senior leadership as women, to understanding the impact of values, purpose and organisational culture, this episode dives into the realities that many leaders experience but rarely talk about openly. 💡 In this episode, we cover: Why “not fitting” isn’t failure, it’s awareness The role of values in leadership and decision-making How to lead through ambiguity, change and AI-driven transformation The importance of finding your tribe in challenging environments Why younger generations are reshaping leadership for the better How culture, not strategy, often determines success Katie and Bex also share honest reflections on resilience, leadership identity and the courage it takes to step away from environments that no longer serve you. 🎯 Key question to reflect on: With the benefit of hindsight, what would you have stood your ground on harder? 🔗 Connect with Rebel Hive: Website: https://rebelhive.co.uk (https://rebelhive.co.uk) Email: hello@rebelhive.co.uk (mailto:hello@rebelhive.co.uk) LinkedIn: Search “Rebel Hive”, “Katie Gooblar” or “Rebecca Herbert” 👍 If you enjoyed this episode, don’t forget to like, subscribe and share to support the podcast. #Leadership #WorkplaceCulture #ExecutiveCoaching #LeadershipDevelopment #OrganisationalCulture #WomenInLeadership #RebelHive

7. 

   13 Mar 2026

   Why “Working Hard” Isn’t Enough to Get Promoted

   In this episode of Leadership and Culture First, host Dr Sharon Black is joined by Michelle Knight, executive coach, inclusive leadership expert and founder of Transforming Her Work. Michelle shares her journey from a 20 year career in international law to becoming a leadership coach focused on helping organisations build inclusive, high performing cultures. As a former law firm director and EDI board member, she brings firsthand experience of navigating senior leadership in environments where inclusion is not always guaranteed. The conversation explores the realities behind leadership progression and organisational culture. Michelle explains how many of the systems that shape career advancement are often invisible, yet highly influential. She discusses why performance alone is rarely enough to progress, and how understanding the underlying dynamics of an organisation can unlock opportunities for growth. A key theme throughout the episode is the shift away from traditional, tick box approaches to equality, diversity and inclusion. Michelle shares why meaningful cultural change requires behavioural change from leaders, and how inclusive leadership can become a measurable driver of performance, retention and organisational success. Dr Sharon Black and Michelle also discuss the challenges many senior leaders face when navigating conversations around inclusion. From fear of saying the wrong thing to managing complex team dynamics, the discussion highlights the importance of curiosity, humility and emotional intelligence in leadership. The episode also touches on the changing nature of workplace culture following the pandemic. Michelle reflects on the realities of remote and hybrid working, explaining why leaders must rethink how culture is created and sustained when teams are no longer physically together. Listeners will gain valuable insights into leadership influence, organisational systems and the role leaders play in shaping cultures where people can thrive. In this episode, they explore: • The hidden systems that influence leadership progression • Moving beyond tick box EDI towards meaningful cultural change • Why behavioural change is central to inclusive leadership • The link between culture, retention and organisational performance • Leading effectively in hybrid and remote working environments • How emotional intelligence shapes leadership and culture Michelle also leaves listeners with a powerful reflection on leadership and influence. True leadership is not only about rising yourself, but about using your position to create opportunities for others and helping the next generation of leaders move forward.

8. 

   4 Mar 2026

   Revolutionizing Social Care: Leadership and Innovation

   In this episode of Leadership and Culture First, hosts Sharon Black and Dr Nichola Ashby are joined by Professor Claire Pryor, the RCN Foundation Chair and Professor of Adult Social Care Nursing at the University of Salford. In a wide ranging and reflective conversation, Claire shares the journey that took her from intensive care nursing to leading research and education that is shaping the future of adult social care nursing across the UK and beyond. Claire speaks candidly about the curiosity that has driven her career, describing how constantly asking questions in clinical practice led her into research, education and ultimately into a pioneering national role. Despite her achievements, she challenges the traditional idea of what leadership looks like, explaining why she prefers to see herself as part of a “gang” or collective where people lead through their individual strengths rather than hierarchy. The discussion explores the cultural differences between the NHS and social care, and why social care can offer more freedom for innovation, collaboration and emerging leadership. Claire also highlights the often overlooked expertise of social care nurses, calling for greater recognition of the complex and highly skilled work they do every day across care homes, community services and specialist settings. Throughout the conversation, the hosts reflect on the importance of self awareness, compassionate leadership and truly listening to colleagues. Claire introduces the powerful idea of “listening with fascination” and shares how small moments of support or dismissal can shape the leaders of the future. The episode also examines the challenges of integrating health and social care, the need for stronger visibility of social care nursing within education and media, and why giving nurses the freedom to grow into leadership earlier in their careers could transform the profession. This is a thoughtful and honest conversation about curiosity, collaboration and redefining what leadership means in modern healthcare. In this episode you will hear about: • Why curiosity and questioning can shape a career in nursing • Rethinking leadership beyond hierarchy and titles • The value of collective leadership within teams • The hidden expertise of social care nurses • Bridging the cultural divide between health and social care • Listening with fascination and the power of being heard • How early opportunities can help nurses grow into leadership roles A powerful conversation for anyone interested in leadership, culture and the future of nursing across health and social care.

9. 

   25 Feb 2026

   Former Florence Nightingale Foundation Deputy CEO on Leadership, Power and Influence

   In this episode of Leadership and Culture First, Sharon Black and Nichola Jane Ashby are joined by Professor Gemma Stacey, former Deputy Chief Executive Officer of the Florence Nightingale Foundation and current Associate Dean for Practice at Nottingham Trent University. Gemma shares her remarkable journey from lived experience of mental health services at a young age to becoming a national and international voice in nursing leadership, workforce development and system change. Together, we explore: How values shape leadership identity The power and responsibility leaders hold within complex systems Why influence often matters more than title The realities of leading under scrutiny Mobilising networks to create lasting change Recognising blind spots and avoiding burnout Gemma reflects on building the Florence Nightingale Foundation Academy, supporting thousands of nurses to develop political confidence and leadership voice, and the importance of relational leadership in volatile and uncertain environments. This is a thoughtful and honest conversation about courage, influence, resilience and what it truly means to lead in healthcare today. If you are a healthcare professional, educator, system leader or someone passionate about values driven leadership, this episode will challenge and inspire you. Subscribe to Leadership and Culture First for weekly conversations that explore the complexities of leadership and culture and offer practical insight for aspiring and experienced leaders alike.

10. 

    18 Feb 2026

    Global Leadership, Local Impact: Building a Healthcare Excellence Movement in Mauritius

    In this episode of the Leadership and Culture First podcast, Sharon and Nichola are joined by transformational leader and social impact strategist Edyta Ozbek, whose work spans Europe, Africa, Asia and the Pacific. Edyta shares her leadership journey from banking and finance into international healthcare recruitment, where she built and scaled teams across nine countries. She reflects openly on the realities of entrepreneurship, the weight of responsibility, leading through political change, and the emotional resilience required when difficult decisions affect people’s livelihoods. The conversation explores what it truly means to shape culture as a leader. Edyta speaks about creating psychological safety, welcoming constructive disagreement, and building confidence through self awareness tools such as Myers Briggs and CliftonStrengths. She discusses the challenge of balancing passion with structure, especially when leading highly accomplished professionals, and how humility and integrity underpin sustainable leadership. A central focus of the episode is Nou Zetwals Mauritius, a nonprofit movement founded by Edyta to recognise and celebrate health and social care professionals. Meaning “our stars” in Mauritian Creole, the initiative aims to raise morale, inspire national pride, and shine a light on the unseen dedication of nurses and care workers across the country. This episode is a powerful reflection on: • Leading with values across cultures • Building remote teams while maintaining engagement • The realities of starting and scaling a business • Recognition as a tool for cultural change • Resilience, peer support and emotional intelligence in leadership Whether you are an established leader, an aspiring entrepreneur, or working within health and social care, this conversation offers practical insight and honest reflection on leading with courage, compassion and purpose. If you enjoy the episode, please like, subscribe and share. New episodes are released weekly.

11. 

    11 Feb 2026

    The Surprising Power of Starting a Business Later in Life, No Age Limit

    This week, Janet Shreeve joins Dr Sharon Black and Dr Nichola Jane Ashby for an inspiring and grounded conversation about leadership, values and building a business in the care sector later in life. Janet launched her business at 65, proving that experience, wisdom and purpose can be powerful foundations for entrepreneurship. This episode explores resilience, advocacy and why better communication is essential across care services. In this conversation, we discuss: • Leading with values in the care sector • Why advocacy empowers families and individuals • Resilience through challenge and change • The importance of networking at every stage of life • Curiosity as a lifelong leadership strength A few moments that stayed with us: "It’s all about being true to yourself." "Be curious and don’t be afraid." "Every day is a school day." Leadership is not defined by age. It is defined by courage, impact and authenticity.

12. 

    5 Feb 2026

    Courage and Authenticity in Leadership

    In this reflective episode of the Leadership and Culture First podcast, Sharon Black and Nichola Jane Ashby look back on the themes, insights, and moments that have shaped recent conversations with guests. They explore what leadership really looks like in practice, beyond job titles and frameworks. From courage in everyday conversations to the role of authenticity, trust, and communication, the discussion highlights how leadership shows up in many different forms. The episode also dives into the realities of entrepreneurship, the difference between management and leadership, and why coaching plays such a powerful role in personal and professional development. At its heart, this conversation is about creating cultures where people can grow, contribute, and lead in ways that are true to who they are.

13. 

    12 Jan 2026

    Leadership and Neurodiversity: Creating Space for Authentic Leaders

    Summary In this episode, Dr. Sharon Black and Dr. Nichola Ashby engage with Jules Crowther, an executive coach specializing in neurodiversity. They explore the complexities of leadership, the challenges faced by neurodivergent individuals, and the importance of psychological safety in the workplace. Jules shares her personal journey of discovering her neurodivergent identity and how it shapes her coaching practice. The conversation emphasizes the need for inclusivity, understanding, and support for neurodiverse individuals in leadership roles, as well as practical strategies for organizations to foster a more inclusive environment. Takeaways Coaching is about listening and creating a safe space. Isolation is a significant challenge for leaders. Perfectionism can lead to burnout, especially for neurodivergent individuals. Understanding neurodiversity is crucial for effective leadership. Psychological safety allows for open discussions about needs and challenges. Leaders should embrace their unique strengths and experiences. Flexibility in the workplace can enhance productivity for neurodivergent individuals. Communication should be clear and non-ambiguous to reduce anxiety. Personal experiences shape professional identity and coaching practices. Building peer support networks can combat feelings of isolation. Keywords leadership, neurodiversity, executive coaching, female leaders, psychological safety, authenticity, perfectionism, inclusion, coaching strategies, personal growth Sound bites "Perfectionism is not attainable." "Authenticity is key in leadership." "Burnout is not a badge of honor." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Leadership and Neurodiversity 02:52 The Journey into Executive Coaching 05:57 Challenges in Leadership: Isolation and Perfectionism 08:43 Understanding Neurodiversity in Leadership 11:52 The Impact of Personal Experience on Professional Identity 14:37 Creating Inclusive Work Environments 17:49 Practical Strategies for Supporting Neurodiversity 21:21 Pivotal Moments in Leadership 24:44 Navigating Barriers and Biases 27:34 Advice for Aspiring Female Leaders 29:19 The Future of Executive Coaching 32:33 Final Thoughts and Key Messages

14. 

    22 Dec 2025

    Unwrapping Leadership Lessons from Christmas Films

    Summary In this episode, Dr. Sharon Black and Dr. Nichola Ashby explore leadership lessons derived from classic Christmas films. They discuss themes such as the importance of reflection, joy, inclusion, and values-driven leadership, drawing parallels between the narratives of these films and the challenges faced by leaders. Each film serves as a metaphor for various leadership qualities, encouraging listeners to reflect on their own leadership journeys and the impact they have on their teams. Takeaways Christmas movies are packed with values for leaders. Reflection is crucial for understanding our impact. Positive risk-taking is essential for leadership. Joy and laughter can change a culture. Inclusion is central to effective leadership. It's okay not to be perfect as a leader. Emotional courage is key to starting over. Teamwork is vital for operational excellence. Your network is one of your greatest resources. Values-driven leadership builds trust. Sound bites "How often do we take time to reflect?" "Joy and laughter can change a culture." "Values-driven leadership builds trust." Keywords leadership, Christmas films, coaching, self-reflection, inclusion, joy, empathy, problem-solving, teamwork, values-driven leadership

15. 

    2 Dec 2025

    The Lioness Effect: Redefining Leadership

    In this engaging podcast episode, Dr. Nichola Ashby and Dr. Sharon Black explore the complexities of leadership and culture with Professor Laura Serrant. They discuss the importance of inclusive leadership, the evolution of nursing, and the concept of the Lioness Effect, which emphasizes integrity and impact in leadership. Laura shares her personal journey, the significance of legacy, and the challenges leaders face in today's fast-paced world. The conversation highlights the need for reflection, the role of accidental leaders, and the importance of creating equitable opportunities for all. Takeaways Leadership and culture are foundational for organizational success. Inclusion must be practiced, not just valued. Laura Serrant's journey is marked by intentionality and openness to opportunity. The nursing profession has evolved significantly since the 1980s. Leadership is about presence and intention, not just titles. Integrity and impact are essential for effective leadership. Legacy should be a consideration for aspiring leaders. Accidental leaders often emerge from a desire to address social injustices. Creating space for reflection is crucial in leadership. The Lioness Effect embodies the potential for impactful leadership. Keywords leadership, culture, inclusion, Lioness Effect, integrity, impact, legacy, nursing, social justice, healthcare

16. 

    15 Nov 2025

    The impact of a good line manager

    In this conversation, Dr. Sharon Black and Dr. Nichola Ashby explore the concept of respect, emphasizing that it should not be based on hierarchy but rather on mutual recognition of humanity. Dr. Black argues that respect is a fundamental human quality that should be extended to everyone, regardless of their position or role. Takeaways: -Respect isn't about hierarchy. -It's about being a decent human being. -Mutual respect is essential in professional relationships. -Respect should be based on humanity, not roles. -Hierarchy should not dictate respect. -Everyone deserves respect regardless of their position. -Understanding others' perspectives is crucial. -Respect fosters better communication. -Building relationships requires mutual recognition. -Respect is a fundamental human quality.

17. 

    31 Oct 2025

    Leadership and Culture First - EP .1.

    Episode 1: Welcome to Leadership and Culture First In this inaugural episode, hosts Dr Nicola Ashby and Dr Sharon Black introduce Leadership and Culture First, a podcast dedicated to exploring how leadership, culture, and people shape success across healthcare, education, business, and beyond. This short introductory conversation sets the scene for what listeners can expect. Nicola and Sharon share the inspiration behind the podcast, the importance of thoughtful leadership and organisational culture, and their vision for building a learning space that supports growth, curiosity, and better ways of working. Across future episodes, you will hear insights, real experiences, and meaningful conversations with leaders, educators, and innovators who are making a difference. Whether you are leading a team, developing future leaders, or passionate about creating positive workplace cultures, this podcast is designed to support and inspire you. Subscribe and join us as we explore leadership and culture with honesty, reflection, and a commitment to making work better for everyone. Leadership and Culture First is available on all major podcast platforms.