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Inspiring Working Lives Podcast

A Bricklayer in a Shirt and Tie: Jamie Purser’ Path to Authentic Leadership

Season 1Episode 6

A Bricklayer in a Shirt and Tie: Jamie Purser’ Path to Authentic Leadership

October 2, 2025

Jamie Purser’ journey is one of resilience, self-belief, and the power of encouragement. In this episode, Jamie shares how a bricklaying job set him on a path to leadership, why authentic identity matters in senior roles, and how further education can transform lives.

In the Saddle of Leadership: Angela Joyce on Authenticity and Ambition

Season 1Episode 5

In the Saddle of Leadership: Angela Joyce on Authenticity and Ambition

September 25, 2025

Angela Joyce, CEO of Capital City College, shares her journey from English teacher to the UK’s youngest female college CEO, reflecting on resilience, authenticity, and the power of further education to change lives.

Dream Bigger: Julie Kapsalis’ Path to Making a Difference

Season 1Episode 4

Dream Bigger: Julie Kapsalis’ Path to Making a Difference

September 25, 2025

Julie Kapsalis, CEO of Nescot, shares her leadership journey and why “dreaming bigger” matters—offering insights on ambition, inclusivity, and creating opportunities for growth.

Persistence and Purpose: Gerry McDonald’s Journey in Education and Leadership

Season 1Episode 3

Persistence and Purpose: Gerry McDonald’s Journey in Education and Leadership

September 25, 2025

Hear from Gerry McDonald, CEO of New City College, as he reflects on leading major mergers, achieving Ofsted success, and the lessons in leadership, resilience, and growth he’s learned along the way.

Opening Doors: Liz Bromley’s Reflections on Mentorship and Opportunities

Season 1Episode 2

Opening Doors: Liz Bromley’s Reflections on Mentorship and Opportunities

September 25, 2025

Join us as Liz Bromley, Chief Executive of NCG, shares her journey from a Cheshire farm to leading one of the UK’s largest college groups, reflecting on mentorship, resilience, and the power of education to open doors.

Rising Above: Denise Brown’s Journey and the Role of Further Education

Season 1Episode 1

Rising Above: Denise Brown’s Journey and the Role of Further Education

August 19, 2025

From a children’s home to CEO. In this episode, Denise Brown, Group Chief Executive of South Essex College Group, shares her inspiring journey of resilience, leadership and the life-changing impact of further education.