Welcome to The LEADing Edge, the podcast of LEAD Network
In this podcast, we explore strategies for advancing gender equity and inclusion in the workplace through innovative ideas and insightful conversations. In each episode, our hosts, Allyson Zimmermann and Sarah McGowan, are joined by leaders from the Consumer Goods and Retail industry who are making a tangible impact on creating a more inclusive world.
LEAD Network is a non-profit organization with a mission to attract, retain and advance women in the Consumer Goods & Retail industry, creating sustainable business value. With over 22,000 Members and over 65 corporate Partners, we are committed to building a diverse and equitable workforce where everyone can contribute and grow, and organisations thrive. Discover how you can be part of this transformative movement by visiting theleadnetwork.net.
Allyson Zimmermann is the CEO of LEAD Network. Sarah McGowan is a HR consultant and strategic advisor with over 25 years of industry experience.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome to The LEADing Edge, the podcast of LEAD Network
In this podcast, we explore strategies for advancing gender equity and inclusion in the workplace through innovative ideas and insightful conversations. In each episode, our hosts, Allyson Zimmermann and Sarah McGowan, are joined by leaders from the Consumer Goods and Retail industry who are making a tangible impact on creating a more inclusive world.
LEAD Network is a non-profit organization with a mission to attract, retain and advance women in the Consumer Goods & Retail industry, creating sustainable business value. With over 22,000 Members and over 65 corporate Partners, we are committed to building a diverse and equitable workforce where everyone can contribute and grow, and organisations thrive. Discover how you can be part of this transformative movement by visiting theleadnetwork.net.
Allyson Zimmermann is the CEO of LEAD Network. Sarah McGowan is a HR consultant and strategic advisor with over 25 years of industry experience.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
For decades, the “business case” for diversity, equity, and inclusion has shaped the conversation. The data is clear: diverse organizations often outperform their peers; but despite this, progress hasn’t always matched the promise.
So in this episode, Allyson Zimmermann and Sarah McGowan go beyond the numbers. Instead of asking whether DEI works - we know it does! - we’re asking why it works. What are the mechanisms that make DEI effective? What actually happens inside diverse teams that leads to better performance, sharper decisions, and stronger leadership? To explore this, we turn to academic research that doesn’t often make its way into boardrooms but offers powerful insights for leaders and HR professionals in consumer goods, retail, and beyond.
🔗 References mentioned in this episode:
Thanks to New York University (NYU), the Center for Workplace Excellence at the University of South Australia and Professor Jenny Hubler for providing content and insights that helped shape this episode.
Podcast producer: Julien Manuguerra-Patten
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
What does it really mean to be an ally at work? Not in theory, but in the everyday decisions leaders make?
In this episode, hosts Allyson Zimmermann and Sarah McGowan take us inside All In, a hands-on learning experience designed for leaders in the retail and consumer goods industry. Built to go beyond awareness, All In helps leaders turn inclusion into action - in hiring, in meetings, in feedback, and in the small, daily moments that shape workplace culture.
We speak with Andrea Aranguren, one of the architects of the programme, and hear from Marc-Emmanuel Tisseron, Country Director Benelux at Lindt & Sprüngli , who took part in All In as a pilot participant.
You're interested in All In? Visit our website and join the movement.
Thanks to Andrea Aranguren and Marc-Emmanuel Tisseron. We also want to acknowledge the work of the entire LEAD Network team in the creation of this programme, especially Catherine Bullen, Dorrottya Gil-Zallay, Jodeine Wheatcroft, Tetyana Kretova, Ashley Jones, Karen Miller, and Sam Tunney.
Our podcast producer is Julien Manuguerra-Patten.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This episode is a continuation of our previous conversation on belonging and psychological safety with neuroscientist Dr. Marcia Goddard. In this second part, we hear from Nisha Rajamohan Coughlan, DEI Leader for EMEA at Cargill, and Dunke Afe, Non-Executive Director at BlackRock.
Get ready to take notes—they explore how psychological safety intersects with DEI, why it’s essential for high-performing teams, and what it looks like in practice. From personal stories to actionable advice, they offer clear insights for leaders, individuals, and teams looking to create safer, more inclusive workplaces.
Producer - Julien Manuguerra-Patten
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
What does it really take for people to do their best work? In this episode, hosts Allyson Zimmermann and Sarah McGowan dive into two often-overlooked but mission-critical ingredients in high-performing workplaces: belonging and psychological safety. You’ll hear why these aren’t just warm-and-fuzzy HR concepts but measurable drivers of performance, wellbeing, innovation, and retention. With insights from neuroscience from Dr Marcia Goddard, organisational research and lived experience, this conversation explores what it feels like to work in a safe environment and how to build one.
With contributions from:
Podcast producer - Julien Manuguerra-Patten
Resources & Mentions:
🎧 Subscribe to catch the full conversation with Dunke and Nisha in our next episode.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
This is our first, special Q&A episode of The LEADing Edge podcast!
DEI once seemed like an unstoppable force in the corporate world. But today, the conversation is shifting. In this episode, we have an open and honest discussion about what’s at stake and how to stay the course. Hosts Allyson Zimmermann and Sarah McGowan answer questions from professionals navigating these challenges in real time, exploring why DEI matters now more than ever and how we can keep pushing forward despite resistance.
With special thanks for Clare Collett (Givaudan) and Julie Richer (Bel Group)
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Welcome to Season 2 of The LEADing Edge Podcast!
In this new episode, hosts Allyson Zimmermann and Sarah McGowan celebrate International Women's Day with one clear message—on the 8th of March and beyond, it's about doing, not trying. This motto has been a driving force of the network since its creation and remains more relevant than ever.
Allyson and Sarah advocate for actionable steps to promote gender equality, highlighting inspirational examples and the critical role of leadership in driving meaningful change. They emphasize that the path to equity requires consistent, intentional actions rather than performative gestures, urging listeners to commit to sustained progress every day.
Featuring insights from former Executive Director of LEAD Network, Sharon Jeske Borie, and Noel Keeley, CEO of Musgrave.
Podcast producer - Julien Manuguerra-Patten
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of 'The LEADing Edge' podcast hosted by Allyson Zimmermann and Sarah McGowan, the focus is on the winners of the 2024 LEAD Best in Class Awards. This award highlights outstanding achievements in fostering inclusive work environments within the retail and consumer packaged goods sectors. Featured winners include Lidl Bulgaria, recognized for their inclusive initiatives across educational programs and local outreach; and Kellanova, honored for their rapid advancements in gender diversity and comprehensive DEI strategies in Europe. This episode delves into the specifics of each company's efforts, the impactful results achieved, and insightful discussions on sustaining DEI initiatives. With the next conference set in Milan in October 2025, we encourage all companies to nominate their own initiatives for future recognition!
Featuring Milena Dragijska-Dencheva, CEO Lidl Bulgaria and Rebecca Roberts, HR Director for Europe, Kellanova.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of The LEADing Edge podcast, hosts Allyson Zimmermann and Sarah McGowan delve into the challenges women face in traditionally male-dominated fields like supply chain, manufacturing, and operations. They tackle systemic issues such as gender bias, pay inequity, and persistent stereotypes, while highlighting actionable strategies to drive change. The discussion emphasizes leadership accountability, mentorship programs, pay audits, and flexible work arrangements as tools to promote female representation and success. Featuring thought-provoking insights from industry leaders Kath Martin, recently manufacturing manager at Kimberly-Clark and Ursula Heng of IBM.
References:
McKinsey Report on Women in the Workplace
Workplace Gender Pay Gap Research
LinkedIn Workforce Insights report
World Economic Forum Gender Gap Report
Report on women’s roles and representation in manufacturing
Thanks to Kath Martin, Ursula Heng, Regina Chitrella.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of the LEADing Edge podcast, hosts Allyson Zimmermann and Sarah McGowan delve into the complex and evolving landscape of Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). They explore the politicization and legal challenges DEI initiatives face today, as the discussion centers around the resistance DEI programs encounter, including perceptions of reverse discrimination and legal pushbacks. This episode offers practical solutions for staying the course and also discusses the role of leadership in setting the tone, with insights from Tom Allmark, HR Director Southern Europe at CHEP.
References:
Harvard Business Review - Diversity and Inclusion: To Overcome Resistance to DEI, Understand What’s Driving It
Survey from Littler: DEI - C-Suite survey report, Jan 2024
Survey Pew Research Centre: DEI in the Workplace
Supreme Court of the US Decision on Affirmative Action, 2023
Some Lily Zheng LinkedIn posts on DEI today
Post 1 - DEI's backlash in truth
Post 2 - DEI Misinformation
Thanks to Tom Allmark and Sam Tunney,
Producer - Julien Manuguerra-Patten
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of the LEADing Edge podcast, hosts Allyson Zimmermann and Sarah McGowan explore whether AI can truly be a trusted ally in the CPG and Retail sectors. Artificial intelligence has revolutionized the industry, enhancing everything from customer experience to supply chain management. However, its rapid adoption also raises concerns about job displacement and inherent biases.
The discussion emphasizes the importance of designing AI systems that are transparent, ethical, and inclusive to create better opportunities for everyone in the workplace, especially women and marginalized groups.
If you enjoyed today's episode, don't forget to subscribe to this podcast and leave us as many stars as you like. You can follow us on LinkedIn or become a LEAD Network Member for free! Visit theleadnetwork.net to access the Member Platform.
Episode Guests:
AI strategy expert and LEAD Network NextGen Chapter Board member Arta Statovci
Founder and CEO of Appoint Group Teuta Sahatqija
AI Management Consultant and AI governance officer @ Deeper Insights James Winters
Resources:
Top AI Aggregators with over 15k+ AI tools:
Top online platforms for aggregating AI courses:
Thanks to Teuta Sahatqija, Arta Statovci, James Winters, and Sam Tunney.
Podcast producer: Julien Manuguerra-Patten.
References:
AI could replace equivalent of 300 million jobs - report - BBC
The Gendered Impacts Of AI On Women’s Careers - Forbes
Why there will be plenty of jobs in the future — even with artificial intelligence - World Economic Forum
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
In this episode of The LEADing Edge podcast, hosts Allyson Zimmermann and Sarah McGowan explore the importance of purpose. How can finding our purpose lead to personal fulfillment and collective progress?
Societal shifts and the COVID-19 pandemic have amplified the value of meaningful work, emphasizing that purpose-driven work connects emotionally and motivates. Using the journey of Sam Latif, P&G's first company accessibility leader, to illustrate the transformative power of purpose, this episode features insights from leadership coach Lisa Murdoch and motivational theorist Daniel Pink.
The discussions also provide strategies for individuals and leaders to foster purpose within their teams, ultimately enhancing performance and employee retention.
Tune in to learn how purpose can drive both personal and organizational success!
If you enjoyed today's episode, don't forget to subscribe to this podcast and leave us as many stars as you like. You can follow us on LinkedIn or become a LEAD Network Member for free! Visit theleadnetwork.net to access the Member Platform.
Episode Guests:
Sam Latif, Company Accessibility Leader, P&G.
Lisa Murdoch, Women's Leadership Coach - CEO Unleash my Future
Episode Breakdown:
00:00 Introduction
00:33 The Awakening
01:35 Exploring Personal Purpose
03:09 Finding our Why
04:34 Daniel Pink on Motivation
07:04 Sam Latif's Inspiring Journey
09:03 Find Your Purpose
11:52 Leading with Purpose
14:33 Sam Latif's Interview
18:56 Sam Latif - Innovations Inspired by Disabilities
19:36 Sam Latif - Creating Inclusive Products
20:33 Sam Latif - The Disability Challenge
25:22 Conclusion: Running Our Own Race
26:40 Credits
Thanks to Lisa Murdoch, Sam Latif, Amy Williams, and Sam Tunney. We're grateful to the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation for letting us use an extract of their interview with Daniel Pink. Our podcast producer is Julien Manuguerra-Patten.
References + Additional Information:
Reducing employee turnover through purpose. (n.d.) Benevity
Why purpose is key to attracting and retaining women employees. (2023). The Globe and Mail
Kurshan, B. (2022). Why are women rising to the top in purpose-driven sectors? Forbes.
Bishop, R. (2023). Does purpose play a role in mental health? Mayo Clinic Health System
Castrillon, C. (2024). How to find a greater sense of purpose at work. Forbes
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In the inaugural episode of The LEADing Edge podcast, hosts Allyson Zimmermann and Sarah McGowan delve into the critical need for attracting, retaining, and advancing next-gen talents in the CPG and retail sectors. With Gen Z and Millennials set to dominate the workforce by 2030, we need to make workplaces future-fit - now. This episode highlights key findings from a LEAD Network report surveying over 900 next-gen talents, revealing their desires for work-life balance, career growth, and visibility.
Featuring insights from industry leaders like Asahi CEO Paolo Lanzarotti, Diageo Managing Director Europe Olena Neznal, and Unilever Account Manager and Co-Chair of the NextGen Chapter Radia Ahsan, the episode explores practical solutions and the transformative Leadership 2.0 model aimed at fostering inclusivity and innovation. Tune in to discover how we can bridge generational gaps and create a more inclusive and innovative workplace!
If you enjoyed today's episode, don't forget to subscribe to this podcast and leave us as many stars as you like. You can follow us on LinkedIn or become a LEAD Network Member for free! Visit theleadnetwork.net to access the Member Platform.
Episode Guests:
Radia Ahsan, Unilever Account Manager and Co-Chair of the NextGen Chapter
Paolo Lanzarotti, CEO Asahi Europe and International
Olena Neznal, Diageo Managing Director Europe
Episode Breakdown:
Thanks to Radia Ahsan, Paolo Lanzarotti, Olena Neznal, Sam Tunney and the entire NextGen Chapter at The LEAD Network. Our podcast producer is Julien Manuguerra-Patten.
Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.