The Trailblazers Experience Podcast

Hosted by Ntola

Business Society Culture EducationInterviews guests

Website RSS feed LinkedIn YouTube

Episodes

Latest episode

Jun 2026

Language

EN-GB

About the show

Join us for candid conversations with remarkable women in business and entrepreneurship. We celebrate the successes of women across various fields, including digital, e-commerce, STEM, content creation, and more. Our guests share their inspiring career journeys, lessons learned , significant milestones, and the challenges they’ve faced while climbing the ladder of success. These women are true #IRLTrailblazers, and their stories will motivate and empower you. In each episode, we explore topics like resilience, leadership, work-life balance, and the importance of community. From entry level to making bold moves in senior roles, our guests provide valuable insights into their industries. They discuss imposter syndrome, building strong teams, and revolutionizing their respective fields. Whether you’re an aspiring entrepreneur, a seasoned professional, or simply curious about the experiences of trailblazing women, this podcast is for you.

Listen to episodes

60 recent

June 24, 2026Episode 9151 min

EP91 Nicky Burgis : A founder journey , its never too late to start something new

Embracing Change and Building Authentic Connections: The Journey of Nicky Burgis In this compelling episode, Nicky Burgis shares her inspiring journey from corporate marketing to launching her own fashion boutique, Snoop. Her story highlights the importance of relationships, self-belief, and giving back through community and charity work, demonstrating that it's never too late to reinvent yourself. Main Topics: The golden thread: relationship-building as a career foundation Recognizing when it's time for a change and taking the leap into entrepreneurship Overcoming challenges of starting a business and managing personal wellbeing How authenticity and understanding clients foster brand loyalty The power of giving back and supporting women through fashion and charity initiatives Practical habits for staying grounded as a small business owner Advocating for diversity, confidence, and real stories in the fashion industry Timestamps: 00:00 - The golden thread: People and relationships 05:00 - Recognizing the need for a career pivot 12:30 - The beginning of Snoop: Passion driven, not strategic 14:55 - Challenges of entrepreneurship: Wearing many hats 17:30 - The journey of confidence and resilience 21:50 - Practical habits for mental wellness and focus 42:45 - Giving back: Charity fashion shows and community impact 53:44 - Top tips for entrepreneurs: Believe, listen, and act 62:45 - The importance of authenticity in building a brand Resources & Links: Snoop Boutique Snoop Boutique Instagram Charity Fashion Events for Breast Cancer Emma Greed's Book "Start with Yourself" Connect with Nicky Burgis: Instagram Facebook Website Notable Quotes: "Relationships are at the heart of everything I do." "It's never too late to reinvent yourself." "Believe in yourself, listen, and act." Send us Comments & Feedback Listen : to the audio version Apple Spotify .Amazon Music Google Podcasts Watch and subscribe to my YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@Thetrailblazersexperience Follow Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/thetrailblazersexperience/

April 19, 2026Episode 9046 min

EP90 Julia Cove Smith Founder Eleven as One : Building a brand with Football Kit that Fits

Women’s football has never had more momentum, yet so many players still end up wearing men’s shorts, “unisex” cuts that do not fit, or gym gear that was never designed for the pitch. That disconnect is exactly what sparked Julia to build 11 As One, a UK women’s football kit brand with a simple aim: give everyone access to that football feeling of belonging, confidence, and community. 00:00 - Introduction to Julia Cove-Smith and her purpose-driven brand 00:44 - Julia’s background in retail marketing and transition to entrepreneurship 01:49 - Insights from her long tenure at Emma Bridgewater and lessons learned 02:48 - Discovering the gap in women’s sportswear, particularly football kits 06:53 - Developing brand identity from concept to execution 07:13 - The relationship between product quality and marketing success 08:54 - The importance of testing, learning, and agility in e-commerce 10:36 - Strategies for brand messaging, community, and purpose 14:33 - Building a collaborative, trust-based work environment 15:32 - Pivoting from traditional retail to online and the importance of experimentation 16:51 - Creating a brand centered on accessibility, diversity, and belonging 17:50 - Developing brand visuals, name, and purpose with external support 24:39 - The value of a compelling product versus purpose-led branding 26:20 - Addressing product design gaps for women in sports kits 29:46 - Encouraging more women and girls into sports through inclusivity 32:02 - Implementing quotas and support systems for female leaders and coaches 35:35 - Common startup challenges, from sourcing to motivation 37:45 - The loneliness of entrepreneurship and the importance of accountability 41:57 - Personal growth, confidence, and embracing new passions like football 44:16 - Finding your community and staying externally connected 46:17 - Top three trailblazer tips: Connect with Julia: Email: hello@elevenasone.co.uk LinkedIn: Julia Cove-Smith eleven_as_on Send us Comments & Feedback Listen : to the audio version Apple Spotify .Amazon Music Google Podcasts Watch and subscribe to my YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@Thetrailblazersexperience Follow Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/thetrailblazersexperience/

April 9, 2026Episode 8944 min

EP89 : Caitlin Robbins - Building a global community for women in hybrid fitness ROXQUEENS

From City Consulting to Building a Global Movement for Women in Hybrid Fitness — Caitlin Robbins on Rox Queens Discover how Caitlin Robbins transitioned from a corporate consulting career to creating an inspiring community empowering women through hybrid fitness. This episode explores the importance of community, purpose-driven entrepreneurship, and staying true to your values. Key Topics: Caitlin’s journey from traditional corporate job to founding Rox Queens The pivotal moment during her first Hyrox race that inspired community support The growth of Rox Queens from a WhatsApp group to a global network Strategies for building authentic partnerships with brands like Nike The lessons learned from launching tech products for community engagement The significance of vulnerability and community support in entrepreneurship The impact of health setbacks and the importance of self-care Future plans for Rox Queens including scaling and funding challenges Advice for founders on curiosity, collaboration, and valuing themselves 00:00 - Introducing Caitlin Robbins and the mission of Rox Queens 02:32 - Caitlin’s background in sports and overcoming dyslexia through running 04:09 - The decision to pursue high rocks competitively and build community 05:48 - The support network behind Rox Queens’ growth 07:06 - The loneliness of training and the need for community 09:37 - Expansion of Rox Queens globally and partnerships 11:00 - The serendipitous encounter with Simon Squibb and the power of dreams 13:08 - Moving to Bali for new opportunities and community building 14:37 - The importance of supporting others through community initiatives 17:19 - Lessons from living abroad and taking risks in entrepreneurship 19:51 - The importance of vulnerability and health during setbacks 22:18 - The partnership with Nike and the journey of brand collaboration 23:26 - Navigating funding, alignment with brands, and staying authentic 26:14 - Creating inclusive community spaces for women of all ages and abilities 27:55 - The shifting perceptions of hybrid athletes and Rox Queens’ global growth 29:13 - The significance of community-driven impact over immediate revenue 30:35 - Launching and iterating Rox Queens app for better engagement 33:00 - Addressing barriers to participation and matchmaking in training 34:00 - The creative approach to connecting female athletes using tech 36:47 - Milestones, growth, and future funding plans 39:08 - Personal health scare and lessons on community’s role in support 41:59 - Balancing the entrepreneurial hustle with self-care 43:00 - The ongoing journey of scaling Rox Queens and securing sponsorships 45:40 - The importance of perseverance, community, and celebrating small wins 47:19 - Advice for founders: curiosity, collaboration, and self-validation 48:46 - Caitlin’s closing thoughts and how to connect with Rox Queens Resources & Links: Rox Queens Instagram Caitlin Robbins - Instagram Lovable - AI-powered app builder Nike - Official Website Simon Squibb - TikTok Connect with Caitlin Robbins: Instagram Rox Queens on Instagram Send us Comments & Feedback Listen : to the audio version Apple Spotify .Amazon Music Google Podcasts Watch and subscribe to my YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@Thetrailblazersexperience Follow Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/thetrailblazersexperience/

April 4, 2026Episode 8839 min

EP88 Fiona Lambert :The power of Reinvention at any Age

Fiona Lambert is an author, experienced fashion and retail industry leader, board advisor and now fitness influencer who shares how redundancy sparks a full reinvention, from getting her fittest at 60 to becoming an author, speaker, and advocate for women who refuse to fade into the background. We talk candidly about identity beyond job titles, confidence through change, and the mindset shifts that turn rejection into redirection. • being made redundant as a catalyst for purpose and reinvention • resources Fiona Lambert's Website - https://fionalambert.com Invincible, Not Invisible (Book) - https://www.amazon.com/Invincible-Not-Invisible-Fiona-Lambert/dp/XXXXXX SAS 60 Single (Book) - https://www.amazon.com/SAS-60-Single-Your-Manual/dp/XXXXXX Find Fiona Website - https://fionalambert.com Instagram - https://instagram.com/fionalambert LinkedIn - https://linkedin.com/in/fionalambert Please remember to follow, like, share. We are on Spotify, Apple, YouTube, or wherever listen to your podcast. Send us Comments & Feedback Listen : to the audio version Apple Spotify .Amazon Music Google Podcasts Watch and subscribe to my YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@Thetrailblazersexperience Follow Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/thetrailblazersexperience/

October 29, 2025Episode 8744 min

How A Former CEO Turned Constant Change Into A Career Superpower : Frederike Knop EP87

Summary In this episode of the Trailblazer Experience Podcast, Frederike Knop shares her journey through the realms of change management and leadership, emphasising the importance of constant change, transparency, and empathy in business. From her early aspirations of becoming a CEO to her experiences in luxury retail and navigating the challenges of leadership, Frederike provides valuable insights for emerging leaders and advocates for women in executive roles. She discusses the significance of authenticity, the need for reinvention, and the importance of creating a supportive environment for change. Takeaways Frederike's drive for constant change stems from her upbringing and experiences. She emphasises the importance of enjoying the journey in one's career. Early aspirations included becoming a CEO Working in luxury retail taught her valuable lessons about leadership. Achieving the CEO title did not bring the fulfilment she expected. Empathy and putting people first are key traits of a great CEO. Transparency within a team fosters trust and collaboration. Vulnerability and authenticity are crucial in leadership. Reinvention is necessary for personal and professional growth. Women should be empowered to take on leadership roles without asking for permission. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Frederike Knop 01:18 The Drive for Constant Change 03:34 Early Career Aspirations and Influences 07:09 Entering the Luxury Space 11:43 The Reality of Being a CEO 12:26 Reflections on Achievements and Next Steps 16:40 What Makes a Great CEO? 20:22 Advice on Change Management and Transformation 23:25 The Importance of Transparency in Leadership 27:48 Navigating Gender Dynamics in the Workplace 32:29 Cultural Influences on Leadership Style 36:11 Reinvention and Career Transitions 39:57 Empowering Women in Leadership Roles 43:57 Outro Follow Frederike : Linkedin Frederike Knop | LinkedIn Send us Comments & Feedback Listen : to the audio version Apple Spotify .Amazon Music Google Podcasts Watch and subscribe to my YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@Thetrailblazersexperience Follow Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/thetrailblazersexperience/

October 20, 2025Episode 8655 min

EP86 Leah Godfrey On Building Women’s Sport From The Ground Up

In this episode of the Trailblazer Experience, Leah Godfrey shares her inspiring journey from a diverse academic background to becoming a leader in women's sports and community building. With over 30 years of experience, Leah discusses her entrepreneurial spirit, the importance of core values, and her transition from the food industry to women's sports. She highlights her initiatives, including the Sports Bra Initiative and her work with Neurodiverse Sport, emphasizing the need for systemic change and empowerment in women's sports. Leah also shares valuable insights on leadership, creativity, and the importance of nurturing the next generation of leaders. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Leah Godfrey's Journey 02:16 Early Career and Academic Background 06:09 Core Values and Entrepreneurial Spirit 10:59 Transitioning from Food to Women's Sports 14:40 The Bold Move into Women's Sports 20:46 Leadership in Women's Football and Neurodiversity 24:53 Highlights and Impactful Initiatives 30:27 The Sports Bra Initiative and Its Importance 34:10 Building a Sustainable Future for Women's Sports 43:13 Creative Storytelling and Brand Building 48:11 Empowering the Next Generation 54:48 Closing Thoughts and Takeaway Tips Find Leah (2) Leah Godfrey | LinkedIn https://www.instagram.com/_alt_elle www.neurodiversesport.com Follow us on the Trailblazer Experience Podcast, Spotify, Apple, YouTube, or wherever listen to your podcast Send us Comments & Feedback Listen : to the audio version Apple Spotify .Amazon Music Google Podcasts Watch and subscribe to my YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@Thetrailblazersexperience Follow Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/thetrailblazersexperience/

October 14, 2025Episode 8557 min

EP85 From Clinic to Code: Kirsten’s Digital AI Revolution building Conceivable

In this episode , Kirsten Karchmer shares her inspiring journey from running a fertility wellness clinic to founding Conceivable, a digital platform aimed at making fertility care more accessible and affordable. She discusses the importance of understanding the menstrual cycle, the role of AI in healthcare, and the need for emotional support in fertility journeys. Kirsten emphasizes the value of mentorship, the significance of trust and truth in leadership, and offers practical advice for aspiring entrepreneurs in the health tech space. The conversation highlights the challenges and triumphs of building a startup while advocating for women's health and empowerment. Chapters 00:00 Intro 01:35 Kirsten's Journey: From Literature to Fertility Care 03:29 Facing Challenges: The Impact of MS on Kirsten's Life 07:21 Understanding the Menstrual Cycle: A Key to Women's Health 10:01 Insights from Working with Fertility Patients 15:12 The Birth of Conceivable: Bridging the Gap in Fertility Care 18:41 Leveraging AI for Women's Health 21:14 Emotional Support in Fertility Journeys 26:03 Building Conceivable: Lessons in Entrepreneurship 31:09 Transforming Women's Healthcare 31:45 Values in Leadership 33:43 The Future of Women's Health 34:39 Building a Business with Impact 36:06 The Importance of Effectiveness 37:15 Advice for Aspiring Entrepreneurs 38:06 Leveraging Outsourcing 39:47 Starting Small and Iterating 41:39 Utilizing Social Media for Validation 43:59 The Role of AI in Business 44:35 The Joy of Mentorship 47:12 Building a Strong Team 48:30 The Need for Mentorship 51:55 10X Thinking for Growth 53:19 Trailblazer Takeaway Tips Find Kirsten Linkedin Kirsten Karchmer | LinkedIn Instagram The Fertility Experts (@conceivable.official) www.conceivable.com Follow, subscribe, and like, and we are on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you listen to your podcast Send us Comments & Feedback Listen : to the audio version Apple Spotify .Amazon Music Google Podcasts Watch and subscribe to my YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@Thetrailblazersexperience Follow Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/thetrailblazersexperience/

October 6, 2025Episode 8452 min

EP84 Shannon Watson’s How an Introvert Learned to Lead, Build Coalitions, and Make Politics More Human

We trace Shannon Watson’s nonlinear path from theatre and psychology to public affairs, and how an introvert built a career convening people across differences. The conversation tackles invisible labour, reframing leadership as contribution, and practical ways to lower the temperature in polarised times. • early exposure to civic life through family and door‑knocking • career pivots from retail and banking to policy and lobbying • introversion, authenticity and public speaking tactics • the TEDx experience and trusting key points over scripts • founding Majority in the Middle and building the Venn diagram • creating “What We Can Do Week” and a civic pledge Follow Shannon TEdX - Why We’re Divided and What You Can Do About It | Shannon Watson | TEDxSilver Lake LinkedIn : Shannon Watson | LinkedIn Follow, like, share, and tell another woman about the podcast Send us Comments & Feedback Listen : to the audio version Apple Spotify .Amazon Music Google Podcasts Watch and subscribe to my YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@Thetrailblazersexperience Follow Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/thetrailblazersexperience/

September 29, 2025Episode 841 hr 0 min

EP84 Breaking the Mold: How Annabelle Built Her Career Across Continents

Annabelle shares her remarkable journey from shop floor assistant to global executive, revealing how she built her career across continents while staying true to her values and disrupting industry norms. • Started at Lush in 1998 on London's King's Road, rising through the ranks over 26 years • Learning to read financial accounts provided crucial insights for business strategy and market expansion • Moved to Hong Kong to revitalize the Lush business, demonstrating courage in international career moves ts about co-founder relationships and funding strategies • Delivered a TEDx talk on beauty industry disruption, celebrating brands that challenge conventional standards Chapters 00:00:00 Introduction and Annabelle's Background 00:10:00 Journey from Shop Floor to Leadership 00:20:00 Challenges in Leadership 00:30:00 Importance of Financial Literacy 00:40:00 Transition to Startup World 00:50:00 Evolving Business Landscape 01:00:00 Trailblazer Takeaway Tips 01:10:00 Closing Thoughts and Future Plans Connect with Annabelle on LinkedIn and check out her TEDx talk on disrupting beauty industry norms. Find Annabelle : Linkedin : https://www.linkedin.com/in/annabelle-baker/ TedX : https://youtu.be/iGIXPAtIyOw?si=NOMiTzmysVlqOdRQ Send us Comments & Feedback Listen : to the audio version Apple Spotify .Amazon Music Google Podcasts Watch and subscribe to my YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@Thetrailblazersexperience Follow Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/thetrailblazersexperience/

September 23, 2025Episode 8351 min

EP83 Sofia Panwar From Law to Lingerie: Building a Million-Pound Business Without Investment

Sofia Panwar, founder of Under Lingerie and Forbes 30 Under 30 honoree, shares her journey from corporate lawyer to building a million-pound business in just three years without external investment. Her vision to reframe lingerie as a tool for self-empowerment rather than sexualisation has resonated with thousands of women seeking to elevate their self-care routines. Chapters 00:00:00 Introduction and Sofia's Background 00:03:00 The Birth of a Business Idea 00:09:00 Leveraging Social Media for Growth 00:15:00 The Role of Community and Feedback 00:21:00 Challenges and Triumphs in Entrepreneurship 00:27:00 Leadership and Team Building 00:33:00 Mindset Shifts and Entrepreneurial Tips 00:39:00 Trailblazer Takeaways 00:45:00 Closing Remarks and Future Outlook FInd Sofia Instagram https://www.instagram.com/unndrlingerie?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=bDljNHNhOTB5dXB1 Linkedin : https://www.linkedin.com/in/sofia-panwar-7b6421150/ © The Trailblazers Experience Podcast Send us Comments & Feedback Listen : to the audio version Apple Spotify .Amazon Music Google Podcasts Watch and subscribe to my YouTube Channel https://www.youtube.com/@Thetrailblazersexperience Follow Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/thetrailblazersexperience/