PowHer

About PowHer

A podcast to support women and non binary leaders to stand in their power and unlock their potential

Publisher

Jess Stuart

Category

business · education

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

4 Jun 2024

Latest episode

18 May 2026

Latest episodes

30 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   18 May 2026

   Season 2, episode 15: Alicia McKay

   In this episode we’re joined by Alicia McKay - a straight-talking strategist, author, and one of the world’s top thinkers in local government. Known for her bold perspectives, Alicia dives into what leadership really looks like in today’s uncertain, AI-driven world. This conversation explores the challenges of modern leadership in an era defined by constant uncertainty, where many leaders feel stuck due to a lack of clarity rather than capability. Alicia McKay argues that overthinking and inaction are often driven by missing perspective, and that decisive action - despite imperfect information - is more effective than waiting for certainty. She also raises concerns about growing reliance on AI, warning that while it offers fast, confident answers, it risks eroding independent thought, creativity, and human agency, while creating larger issues around power and accountability. The discussion highlights that barriers for women in leadership are not simply about confidence but are rooted in structural inequalities and the disproportionate mental and domestic load they carry. Ultimately, the conversation emphasises the importance of retaining human judgment, creativity, and authenticity, suggesting these will become even more valuable as technology advances. Alicia McKay is a straight-talking strategist. Author, speaker, consultant and entrepreneur, Alicia has worked with over 120 organisations, from tiny charities and rural Councils to global corporations and federal agencies. She specialises in strategy, decision-making and change, with particular expertise in the public sector. In 2025, Alicia was named one of the world’s Top 25 Thinkers in Local Government by the UK's LGIU. Alicia speaks to conferences and the media and is a trusted advisor to local, state and federal governments. Her strategy models and decision frameworks are used worldwide. Alicia runs signature courses including Not An MBA, Strategic Public Leaders, and Local Legends. She is a prolific writer, publishing a popular weekly newsletter and regular essays on power, systems and culture. Alicia is the author of three books -From Strategy to Action, You Don’t Need An MBA, and Local Legends. Learn more at www.aliciamckay.co.nz or follow Alicia on LinkedIn.

2. 

   4 May 2026

   Season 2, episode 14: Ziena Jalil

   In this episode, change-maker and leader Ziena Jalil shares her journey from international student to senior leader, highlighting how opportunity, mentorship, and global experience have shaped her path and reinforcing that while talent is everywhere, opportunity is not. She emphasises the importance of curiosity, collaboration, and purpose in navigating challenges and leading across cultures, while encouraging leaders to recognise Aotearoa’s place in an interconnected world. Ziena outlines the key traits needed for modern leadership—clear communication, presence, and leading with purpose—stressing that leadership is not defined by titles but by impact at all levels. She also reflects on the importance of strong support systems and community in sustaining resilience, and shares insights from her work with Hato Hone St John, particularly around public health priorities like cardiac arrest survival and falls prevention, with a focus on addressing equity gaps. A strategic and influential executive leader with over 20 years of award-winning experience across diplomacy, business, and public sector leadership in New Zealand and Asia – Ziena is known for building trusted relationships across cultures and systems to deliver inclusive, lasting impact. Recognised by the global Stevie Awards for Women in Business in the Female Executive of the Year (Government or Not for Profit) category, Ziena has significant experience in large, complex organisations, and has led major initiatives and high performing teams across a multitude of sectors. Prior to joining Hato Hone St John in 2025 as Deputy Chief Executive Strategy and Executive Operations, she was Deputy Chief Executive at Te Pūkenga and served on the boards of the Natural Hazards Commission, Education New Zealand, DNA, Asia New Zealand Foundation, ATEED and the Cancer Society. She has also received several international awards for her work advancing New Zealand’s profile and partnerships in Asia, where she was based for ten years as Regional Director (South and Southeast Asia) for Education New Zealand, New Zealand Trade Commissioner to Singapore, and Head of North Asia Marketing and Communications for New Zealand Trade and Enterprise. A member of the New Zealand Institute of Directors, Global Women and Asia 21, Ziena is an internationally recognised speaker, MC and facilitator, and brings a strong commitment to leadership, equity and purpose.

3. 

   20 Apr 2026

   Season 2, episode 13: Sarah Connor

   In this episode, Sarah Connor shares how her own unexpected experience with perimenopause led her to become a powerful advocate for change. Through her initiative Menopause Over Martinis, she’s helping break the silence around menopause and create open, supportive conversations in communities and workplaces. Sarah highlights how little many people know about menopause, the wide range of symptoms women face, and the impact it can have - especially at the peak of their careers. She emphasises the importance of education, empathy, and practical workplace support, as well as including men in the conversation. As a guest speaker and advocate, Sarah facilitates conversations and shares resources about menopause/ruahinetanga with workplaces, networks and associations all over Aotearoa and the world. So far, Sarah has shared her lived experience and knowledge with 50+ organisations including Air New Zealand, Xero, Sharesies, the New Zealand Defence Force, Inland Revenue, MBIE, various city councils and the PPTA. She’s also a writer and campaigner for change. While Sarah is not a doctor, she’s been exploring, writing and talking about menopause since 2019 when perimenopause impacted every aspect of her health and wellbeing in a significant way. www.sarahconnor.co.nz www.menopauseovermartinis.org www.women.govt.nz/menopause - an online guide to help organisations, regardless of type and size, be informed, and supportive of employees going through menopause https://www.women.govt.nz/gender-pay-gaps/gender-pay-gap-toolkit - helping employers understand, measure, and take action to close gender pay gaps https://www.women.govt.nz/womens-safety/free-lead-toolkit - supporting women with a public profile or who use online spaces as part of their mahi, and their employers, to be safe online https://www.women.govt.nz/women-leadership/register-with-BoardConnector - supporting women interested in governance positions within the public sector by sharing opportunities about available roles and training opportunities https://www.linkedin.com/in/sarah-connor-075b68161/ https://www.instagram.com/sarahconnor_stories/ www.jessstuart.co.nz

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Spotify

5.0 / 5

2 ratings

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Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.