Breaking Barriers Podcast

Mary Ann Sieghart on equality for ALL women ahead of IWD 2025

Released in time for International Women’s Day 2025, this episode tackles the urgent and ongoing challenge of achieving gender equality that works for ALL. Despite progress, the gap remains, and closing it requires action.
In this insightful conversation, we sit down with Sharon Peake, Shape Talent’s CEO, and Mary Ann Sieghart, author of The Authority Gap, to explore:
The persistent gender equality gap through an intersectional lens
Actionable strategies to ensure progress is inclusive for ALL women and girls
What organisations must prioritise this International Women’s Day, and beyond
Designed for CPOs, EDI leaders, and HR professionals, this episode is packed with practical takeaways to help you drive measurable, meaningful change in your workplace.
Listen now and be part of the movement toward true gender equity.

Designing workplace systems through the lens of intersectionality

Beyond representation: Designing workplace systems through the lens of intersectionality.
With special guests: Arlene Rahn, Joulie Gindi (MSc), Simon Houghton and Shape Talent's Ailish Breen.Why is intersectionality so crucial?Women’s experiences in the workplace are shaped by a tapestry of intersecting identities – including race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, age, life stage and more. These dimensions of identity create unique challenges and opportunities, and understanding them is essential for creating inclusive and equitable workplaces.For leaders, the stakes are high. Without an intersectional lens, we risk overlooking the most underrepresented women – and missing out on their invaluable talents and perspectives. By embracing this framework, organisations can build solutions that work for all women, driving innovation, inclusion, and progress.

What does a gender-inclusive succession strategy look like?

As a forward-thinking leader, you know that true organisational success hinges on diverse, equitable, and inclusive leadership. But how do you ensure your C-suite succession pipeline reflects these values?
Shape Talent's Founder and CEO, Sharon Peake, CPsychol, will be joined by Eleri Dodsworth from executive search and leadership consultants, Stanton Chase London, alongside our host Rachel Schofield moderating this insight-packed discussion.
 

Supporting menopause at work: from taboo to business 'Standard'

Rachel Schofield is joined by Anne Hayes, Director of Sectors and Standards Development, BSI, Lyn Bartholomew, Head of Talent Management, Ericsson, and Sharon Peake, CEO and Founder of Shape Talent.

5 game-changing tactics to accelerate gender equality in your organisation

Rachel Schofield is joined by Shape Talent's CEO and Founder, Sharon Peake, and Director of Research and Product Innovation, Dr Priscila Pereira, who share five practical, high-impact tips that you can start implementing today.

Building a culture that enables the attraction and retention of women

Rachel Schofield is joined by Jenn Barnett from Grant Thornton UK, to discuss building a culture that enables the attraction and attention of women. 

How artificial intelligence is shaping the trajectory of gender equity

Rachel Schofield is joined by Dr. Andrée Bates to discuss how AI is shaping the trajectory of gender equity.

Why inclusive leadership is so hard

Rachel Schofield is joined by Nadia Nagamootoo, where they discuss why inclusive leadership is so hard.

The importance of flexible working for gender equality

Rachel Schofield is joined by Ericsson's Lyn Bartholomew where they discuss about importance of flexible working for gender equality.

Is IWD actually progressing the cause for gender equity?

Rachel Schofield talks to Lee Chambers about if IWD is actually progressing the cause for gender equity in 2024.