The Life and Leadership Podcast

Hosted by Mary Eniolu

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Latest episode

Oct 2026

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About the show

The Life and Leadership Podcast brings you candid conversations with leaders from across the globe with guests sharing frankly and openly about the trials, triumphs and lessons learnt along their leadership journey, leaving you with powerful insights and practical takeaways to help you grow in your leadership.Whether you are a seasoned, new or aspiring leader, you will be inspired by these conversations.

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38 recent

October 30, 2026Episode 140 min

EP038 - Making your business less dependent on you with Malcolm Palmer(Pt 1)

How do you build a thriving business that can grow without everything depending on you? In this episode, we sit down with Malcolm Palmer, Founder and Senior Partner of A4G, a Kent-based accountancy practice he has successfully developed to operate independently of him. Drawing on his own experience, Malcolm shares what it really takes to build a business that can thrive beyond its founder. From recognising when it's time to bring new people on board to making that first pivotal people decision that changed the trajectory of his business, he offers a refreshing perspective on the decisions that underpin sustainable growth. We also explore the importance of stepping back to see the bigger picture, the often-overlooked power of systems, and perhaps one of the biggest challenges for founders: learning to let go of control without losing sight of what matters. Along the way, Malcolm shares some personal experiences from his past that continue to shape the way he leads today, and reveals what he believes is the secret sauce to building a thriving practice. Whether you're a founder looking to scale, a business owner struggling to step back, or a leader wanting to build a stronger, more independent team, this conversation is packed with insights worth reflecting on. 🎧 Tune in for an honest and insightful conversation about building a business that works for you, rather than one that relies solely on you. Subscribe here to be notified of new episodes Malcolm Palmer brings over 30 years of experience as Founding Partner at A4G, where he has overseen consistent growth while helping owner-managed businesses become stronger, more valuable, and less dependent on their founders. He leads A4G Freedom, a programme designed to help business owners create more scalable, system-led businesses that are easier to run and ultimately easier to sell. Alongside his advisory work, he has written three books: Making Your Business Less Dependent on you, Accidental Millionaires – the secret mindset successful business owners share with sporting legends and The Secret Mindset of Top Estate Agents. He specialises in strategic planning, succession, and exit and estate planning, working closely with business owners to unlock growth and build long-term value. Connect with Malcolm Support the show LET'S STAY CONNECTED : Follow me on Linkedin Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE before you leave Can Do Academy is committed to making ordinary people extraordinary leaders. Find out more about our work here Have a question about this episode or know a leader that should be on it? Reach out to us here

April 15, 202640 min

EP037 - Intentional Leadership with Nicolina Andall (Pt 2)

In this episode continuing our conversation with Nicolina Andall, we go deeper into the mindset, motivation, and values that have shaped her extraordinary leadership journey. Nicolina shares what drives her commitment to giving back, the profound influence of her Windrush parents, and the resilience required not just to survive, but to truly thrive in spaces where you may feel unseen or unwelcome. We explore: Breaking barriers and creating space for others at the table The power of giving, and how lifting others fuels your own growth Why Diversity and Inclusion matters, and always will Hard-earned lessons from navigating leadership at the highest levels This is more than a conversation about success. It’s about legacy, impact, and leading with intention. 🎧 Tune in now Subscribe here to be notified of new episodes Nicolina Andall is a Portfolio Non-Executive Director, Corporate Commercial General Counsel and Judicial Appointments Commissioner. Her 20 plus years as a Solicitor and C-Suite Director spans the City to global in-house legal departments and today, she serves on several senior appointments and regulatory panels across government and several industries including the Kings Counsel Selection panel. She is founder of a thriving Diverse Leadership group is an expert speaker on the FT NED Diploma, appears in the Cranfield 100 Women to Watch 2020 and holds an Honorary Doctorate in Law. Connect with Nicolina Support the show LET'S STAY CONNECTED : Follow me on Linkedin Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE before you leave Can Do Academy is committed to making ordinary people extraordinary leaders. Find out more about our work here Have a question about this episode or know a leader that should be on it? Reach out to us here

March 27, 2026Episode 129 min

EP036 - Intentional Leadership with Nicolina Andall (Pt 1)

We kick off Season 3 of the Life and Leadership Podcast with an inspiring conversation with Nicolina Andall, a Portfolio Non-Executive Director, Judicial Appointments Commissioner, and former C-Suite General Counsel. With over two decades of leadership across law, governance, and public appointments, Nicolina shares her journey of rising through spaces not always designed for her, how she dealt with challenging situations, including bullying and how she has led with intention every step of the way. A powerful and thought-provoking conversation for leaders who want to lead with purpose and impact. Subscribe here to be notified of new episodes Nicolina Andall is a Portfolio Non-Executive Director, Corporate Commercial General Counsel and Judicial Appointments Commissioner. Her 20 plus years as a Solicitor and C-Suite Director spans the City to global in-house legal departments and today, she serves on several senior appointments and regulatory panels across government and several industries including the Kings Counsel Selection panel. She is founder of a thriving Diverse Leadership group is an expert speaker on the FT NED Diploma, appears in the Cranfield 100 Women to Watch 2020 and holds an Honorary Doctorate in Law. Connect with Nicolina Support the show LET'S STAY CONNECTED : Follow Mary Eniolu on Linkedin Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE before you leave Can Do Academy is committed to making ordinary people extraordinary leaders. Find out more about our work here Have a question about this episode or know a leader that should be on it? Reach out to us here Support the show LET'S STAY CONNECTED : Follow me on Linkedin Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE before you leave Can Do Academy is committed to making ordinary people extraordinary leaders. Find out more about our work here Have a question about this episode or know a leader that should be on it? Reach out to us here

November 4, 202535 min

EP035 The Courage to Pause: Choosing Well-being Over Burnout With Dawn George (Pt 2)

In Part 2 of our conversation with Dawn George, we explore the powerful link between employee wellbeing, engagement, and productivity — and what leaders can do to truly nurture thriving, open cultures. Dawn shares practical, experience-backed tips for creating workplaces where people feel seen, supported, and inspired to do their best work. She also reveals her number one leadership tip and the life lesson that continues to guide her — both simple, yet extremely powerful! 🎧 A thoughtful and uplifting conversation every leader should hear. Subscribe here to be notified of new episodes Dawn George has worked in the HR/People profession for 35 years, most recently spending 14 years at the Eden Project in Cornwall. As Chief People and Culture Officer with Eden, Dawn was part of the senior leadership team with the remit for all things People related. She is passionate about culture, values and employee engagement. Going deeper to ensure this genuinely weaves through the fabric of all the organisation does, not just what's written down. Dawn has a passion for inclusion, particularly invisible disability, having managed a disability of her own for over 25 years and understanding what's needed to take the blinkers off in an organisation. Connect with Dawn Support the show LET'S STAY CONNECTED : Follow me on Linkedin Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE before you leave Can Do Academy is committed to making ordinary people extraordinary leaders. Find out more about our work here Have a question about this episode or know a leader that should be on it? Reach out to us here

October 10, 202520 min

EP034 The Courage to Pause: Choosing Well-being Over Burnout With Dawn George (Pt 1)

In this powerful episode, Dawn George — a highly accomplished HR executive known for supporting others — opens up about the burnout that forced her to walk away from a role she loved. We discuss: The hidden mental health struggle behind high-performance leadership The question — who supports the ones supporting everyone else? Practical strategies for achieving work-life balance — including her brilliant “walking meetings” 🎧 This is an essential listen for every leader and HR professional navigating pressure, purpose and well-being. Subscribe here to be notified of new episodes Dawn George has worked in the HR/People profession for 35 years, most recently spending 14 years at the Eden Project in Cornwall. As Chief People and Culture Officer with Eden, Dawn was part of the senior leadership team with the remit for all things People related. She is passionate about culture, values and employee engagement. Going deeper to ensure this genuinely weaves through the fabric of all the organisation does, not just what's written down. Dawn has a passion for inclusion, particularly invisible disability, having managed a disability of her own for over 25 years and understanding what's needed to take the blinkers off in an organisation. Connect with Dawn Support the show LET'S STAY CONNECTED : Follow me on Linkedin Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE before you leave Can Do Academy is committed to making ordinary people extraordinary leaders. Find out more about our work here Have a question about this episode or know a leader that should be on it? Reach out to us here

June 27, 202542 min

EP033 Authentic Leadership with Stephanie Ezechukwu (Pt 2)

In Part 2 of our very insightful conversation with Stephanie Ezechukwu , Head of Prosecutions and Quality at the DVSA, we explore how vulnerability can be one of a leader’s greatest strengths. Stephanie shares how her authenticity and willingness to lead with vulnerability not only made her the obvious choice for the extremely difficult task, of breaking the news of the sad passing of a colleague to the rest of the team, but how it helped her navigate the extremely difficult moment with empathy and grace. We also dive into the role of mentorship, the importance of self-awareness, and how boldness is often built through meaningful support and self-reflection. 🎧 Tune in for this masterclass in authentic leadership. You'll find it as moving as it is insightful. Watch here on YouTube Subscribe here to be notified of new episodes Stephanie Ezechukwu is the Head of Prosecutions and Quality at the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), part of the UK’s Department for Transport. Starting her career as a court clerk at the age of 23, Stephanie’s remarkable rise through the ranks is a testament to her work ethic, humility, and passion for justice. Today, she leads the agency’s litigation and prosecution work, overseeing teams responsible for criminal and regulatory cases across multiple courts, including the Magistrates, Crown Court, and Court of Appeal. A champion of servant leadership, Stephanie brings authenticity, compassion, and conviction to every role she steps into. Connect with Stephanie Support the show LET'S STAY CONNECTED : Follow me on Linkedin Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE before you leave Can Do Academy is committed to making ordinary people extraordinary leaders. Find out more about our work here Have a question about this episode or know a leader that should be on it? Reach out to us here Support the show LET'S STAY CONNECTED : Follow me on Linkedin Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE before you leave Can Do Academy is committed to making ordinary people extraordinary leaders. Find out more about our work here Have a question about this episode or know a leader that should be on it? Reach out to us here

June 13, 202532 min

EP032 Authentic Leadership with Stephanie Ezechukwu (Pt 1)

What does it really mean to lead with authenticity? In this inspiring episode, Stephanie Ezechukwu , Head of Prosecutions and Quality at the DVSA, takes us through her extraordinary journey—from starting as a 23-year-old court clerk to now leading three teams handling some of the UK government's most critical prosecution work. Stephanie shares how humility, character, competence and compassion shaped her rise, and why those same values are essential in effective leadership. From being unexpectedly promoted in her first year to leading teams that represent the agency in major courts, her story is one of quiet strength and undeniable impact. We discuss: How authentic leadership transforms teams The power of servant leadership in public service What happens when you lead with character, not just credentials Why delegation and trust are essential for growth This episode will challenge your view of what leadership looks like—and remind you that the most powerful leaders are often the most authentic ones. Listen now and be inspired to lead with heart, not just a title. Watch here on YouTube Subscribe here to be notified of new episodes Stephanie Ezechukwu is the Head of Prosecutions and Quality at the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA), part of the UK’s Department for Transport. Starting her career as a court clerk at the age of 23, Stephanie’s remarkable rise through the ranks is a testament to her work ethic, humility, and passion for justice. Today, she leads the agency’s litigation and prosecution work, overseeing teams responsible for criminal and regulatory cases across multiple courts, including the Magistrates, Crown Court, and Court of Appeal. A champion of servant leadership, Stephanie brings authenticity, compassion, and conviction to every role she steps into. Connect with Stephanie Support the show LET'S STAY CONNECTED : Follow me on Linkedin Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE before you leave Can Do Academy is committed to making ordinary people extraordinary leaders. Find out more about our work here Have a question about this episode or know a leader that should be on it? Reach out to us here

April 4, 202530 min

E031 Breaking Barriers and Leadership Legacy with Dr Ibilola Amao (Pt. 2)

In this powerful conclusion to our conversation with Dr. Ibilola Amao, Principal Consultant at Lonadek Global Services, we dive deeper into what fuels her extraordinary journey. Dr. Amao shares how she turns obstacles into opportunities—not only to rise above challenges but to create lasting, positive impact for others. Her leadership mindset can only be described as one of transformation, legacy-building, and bold innovation. She also shares how she manages to achieve a sense of work-life integration, and the "superpower" that enables her to continuously break barriers and uplift others despite a staggering list of professional roles and commitments—ranging from her board appointments, advisory roles, and thought leadership across global STEM and energy spaces Tune in to hear how one woman is shaping the future of engineering, energy, and entrepreneurship—one bold move at a time. Subscribe here to be notified of new episodes Dr. Ibilola Amao is the Principal Consultant at Lonadek Global Services, an award-winning engineering technology and innovation solutions company. With over 30 years of experience in the Energy, Power, Infrastructure, and Renewable sectors, she has trained over 15,000 engineers and empowered 100,000+ STEM talents. A passionate advocate for STEM education, leadership, and entrepreneurship, Dr. Amao is a trailblazer in breaking barriers and championing diversity in a male-dominated industry. Recognized globally for her contributions, she continues to drive innovation, sustainability, and human capital development across Africa and beyond. Connect with Ibilola Support the show LET'S STAY CONNECTED : Follow me on Linkedin Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE before you leave Can Do Academy is committed to making ordinary people extraordinary leaders. Find out more about our work here Have a question about this episode or know a leader that should be on it? Reach out to us here

March 14, 2025Episode 131 min

E030 Breaking Barriers and Leadership Legacy with Dr Ibilola Amao (Pt. 1)

Dr Ibilola Amao’s journey is one of breaking barriers and defying odds. From navigating challenges as a black woman in a male-dominated industry to building a thriving engineering consultancy, in this episode, she reveals the bold strategies and leadership mindset that has fueled her success, how taking what many would see as a demotion and drastic pay cut became a game-changer for her career and how she is empowering thousands of young talents along the way, leaving a legacy of empowerment, innovation, and transformative leadership that continues to inspire the next generation. Tune in for an inspiring conversation on resilience, risk-taking, vision, and purpose-driven leadership. Subscribe here to be notified of new episodes Dr. Ibilola Amao is the Principal Consultant at Lonadek Global Services, an award-winning engineering technology and innovation solutions company. With over 30 years of experience in the Energy, Power, Infrastructure, and Renewable sectors, she has trained over 15,000 engineers and empowered 100,000+ STEM talents. A passionate advocate for STEM education, leadership, and entrepreneurship, Dr. Amao is a trailblazer in breaking barriers and championing diversity in a male-dominated industry. Recognized globally for her contributions, she continues to drive innovation, sustainability, and human capital development across Africa and beyond. Connect with Ibilola Support the show LET'S STAY CONNECTED : Follow me on Linkedin Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE before you leave Can Do Academy is committed to making ordinary people extraordinary leaders. Find out more about our work here Have a question about this episode or know a leader that should be on it? Reach out to us here

September 27, 2024Episode 619 min

E029 Leadership and Work Life Balance with Michael Wood FIH (Pt 2)

In the final part of our conversation with Michael Wood FIH on Leadership and Work-Life Balance, Michael reveals his top three traits of an effective leader, how he navigates moments of failure, and the single most important piece of advice he has ever received. Plus, he shares what every new leader must embrace to truly succeed. Prepare to be both inspired and empowered by Michael's profound insights! Subscribe here to be notified of new episodes Michael Wood FIH is General Manager and Director of Hempstead House Hotel and spa based in Kent, in the United Kingdom. With 20 years of independent hotel experience and 9 years of senior management, Michael has a passion to create a team of people to learn from each other and lead when required and to make collaborative decisions for business and individual growth and success. Also joint vice chair of the Southeast Institute of Hospitality, Michael is very passionate about his career in hospitality and has a wonderful wife and two children who support this lifestyle along with their new addition of Bonnie the cockapoo. Michael loves to make a good cappuccino when he gets to work and to escape to the golf course whenever possible. Follow Michael Wood https://www.linkedin.com/in/michael-wood-mih-05b72b71/ Support the show LET'S STAY CONNECTED : Follow me on Linkedin Don't forget to SUBSCRIBE before you leave Can Do Academy is committed to making ordinary people extraordinary leaders. Find out more about our work here Have a question about this episode or know a leader that should be on it? Reach out to us here