Finding Your Collaborative Edge

Whose Book is it Anyway? A conversation with Karen Dobres, author of Pitch Invasion, and Trevor Davies, Commissioning Editor and Publisher

What does it take to truly collaborate?How can leaders create environments where diverse perspectives are valued, trust is nurtured, and meaningful conversations drive innovation?Finding Your Collaborative Edge™ is a podcast for leaders, teams, and professionals who want to grow their capacity for genuine, human-centred collaboration in their organisations and lives.Hosted by Anni Townend and Lucy Kidd, co-founders of Collaboration Equation™, this show explores the essential elements of psychological safety, inclusive dialogue, and diversity of thought and feeling, helping you cultivate a mindset of curiosity, care, and courage.Each episode delves into real-world leadership challenges, expert insights, and powerful stories from those who are finding their Collaborative Edge™. Whether you’re a senior leader, team manager, or someone passionate about creating human-centred workplaces, this podcast will inspire you to build connections, embrace difference, and lead with authenticity.Join the conversation and start your journey towards more impactful, collaborative leadership.Find out more at: www.collaborationequation.comFollow us on LinkedIn: Collaboration EquationABOUT THIS EPISODE:From the Pitch to the PageKaren Dobres didn't set out to write a book. She set out to change a football club. Pitch Invasion is the story of how she became a board director at Lewes Football Club, and what she discovered about leadership, belonging and collective ambition along the way.In this episode, Karen joins us alongside Trevor Davies, the Commissioning Editor and Publisher, who helped shape her story into the book it became. Together, we explore the partnership and collaboration behind the writing itself: the conversations, the trust, the decisions about what to include and what to leave out.What does it take to truly collaborate - not just in a boardroom or on a pitch, but in the creative process of making something together? And what can the story of one woman, one football club, and one book teach us about the conditions that allow diverse perspectives to be heard, valued and turned into something lasting?Together they explore:The art of the pitch Karen and Trevor each had to pitch to the other before this book existed. That mutual act of persuasion - making the case, being heard, being believed - became the foundation of their trust and shared ownership of the project. It's a quietly powerful echo of the title Pitch Invasion itself: collaboration, it turns out, starts with someone being brave enough to make the ask.Balancing authentic storytelling with commercial value How do you honour a deeply personal story and shape it for the widest possible audience? Karen and Trevor explore the creative tension at the heart of their partnership, and how a shared sense of purpose helped them navigate it - together.Mission as fuel Having a clear why - giving voice to underrepresented women in football, championing gender equality - provided energy, focus, commitment and courage when the work got hard. Purpose isn't just motivating. It's directional.Outsider value and gentle activism Karen didn't come from the football world. That outsider perspective became one of her greatest assets at Lewes FC - asking the questions others had stopped asking, disrupting accepted norms with care and persistence. Positive disruption, done with respect, is how cultures change.Football as community - and what gets lost Football creates genuine communities of belonging. This episode explores what happens when that gets forgotten, and what it looks like when a club chooses unity over division - and means it.The power of real listening Not just listening to each other's stories, but to your own reactions. Paying attention to your own process and the impact you're having on others. Karen and Trevor both spoke about this - and it shows in the book.Collaboration builds confidence Mutual respect and genuine support grow courage in both directions. When someone really listens to you, you find you have more to say than you thought.Three Encouragements from Karen and Trevor:Respect where each other are coming from - collaboration doesn't require agreement, it requires genuine regard for each other's perspective and experience.Really listen - to others, and to yourself - pay attention to your own reactions. They're telling you something.Enjoy it - when collaboration works, it's genuinely energising. Let yourself feel that.More about Karen Dobres:Karen Dobres is the author of Pitch Invasion and a former board director at Lewes Football Club. A passionate advocate for gender equality in sport, she speaks regularly on equity and inclusion and is one of the UK's leading voices in women's football.Connect with Karen:LinkedInInstagramhttps://lewesfc.com/about-us/our-ethos/More about Trevor Davies:Trevor Davies is Commissioning Editor and Publisher at Cassell/Octopus Books. Cassell seeks to break new ground in publishing voices who entertain and enlighten, from high-impact sports narratives to humour and TV treasures.Connect with Trevor:LinkedInhttps://www.octopusbooks.co.uk/imprint/octopus/cassell/page/cassell/Thank you for listeningFinding Your Collaborative Edge™ is produced by Brown Bear Studios, with marketing support from SHMOGUS Media and Penny Writing.Please share, rate, and subscribe - and continue exploring how curiosity, care and courage can lead us to more creative, collaborative leadership.Explore more at www.collaborationequation.comFollow us on LinkedIn: Collaboration Equation

What if Creativity and Collaboration Could Save Lives? A conversation with Ali Mapletoft, Artist, Creative Consultant and Founder of Creative Oxygen™

What does it take to truly collaborate?How can leaders create environments where diverse perspectives are valued, trust is nurtured, and meaningful conversations drive innovation?Finding Your Collaborative Edge™ is a podcast for leaders, teams, and professionals who want to unlock the full potential of collaboration in their organisations and lives.Hosted by Anni Townend and Lucy Kidd, co-founders of Collaboration Equation™, this show explores the essential elements of psychological safety, inclusive dialogue, and diversity of thought and feeling, helping you cultivate a mindset of curiosity, care, and courage.Each episode delves into real-world leadership challenges, expert insights, and powerful stories from those who are finding their Collaborative Edge™. Whether you’re a senior leader, team manager, or someone passionate about creating human-centred workplaces, this podcast will inspire you to build connections, embrace difference, and lead with authenticity.Join the conversation and start your journey towards more impactful, collaborative leadership.Find out more at: www.collaborationequation.comFollow us on LinkedIn: Collaboration EquationABOUT THIS EPISODE:Exploring Creativity with Curiosity, Care and CourageIn this episode of Finding Your Collaborative Edge™, Anni Townend and Lucy Kidd are in conversation with Ali Mapletoft - Artist, creative consultant, and founder of Creative Oxygen™ - whose work supports leaders and teams to reimagine how we work, relate and innovate together. Together, they explore why creativity is not just a “nice to have” in leadership and life, but a vital force with the power to save lives. From quick decision-making in A&E to the role of self-expression in mental health and recovery, Ali, Lucy and Anni make the case for creativity as essential - not just for innovation, but for creating cultures of connection..Through their lens of Curiosity, Care and Courage, Anni and Lucy invite Ali to share how she works with leaders and teams to reimagine what’s possible. They discuss her belief that creativity is magic, and that this magic is essential. Not separate from strategy or systems, but central to how we create the conditions for collaboration and find our Collaborative Edge™.In conversation with Anni and Lucy, Ali reflects on:The role of creativity as a human capacity - not just a talent for the fewThe Creative Oxygen Wheel: a practical framework for understanding how we access and apply creativityWhy it’s time to shift from “quality over quantity” for collaboration to thriveHow leaders can build simple, creative rituals into daily working life to create space for reflection and open conversationThe impact of collective creative energy to spark change across systems and culturesAnd why choosing both logic and magic helps us find new ways of leading, collaborating and creating togetherAli also shares three creative invitations for your own leadership practice:Believe in your own creative capacity - trust that it’s thereMake time to create alone, without the noise of others’ inputDesign a “pop-up” creative space that inspires you to think differentlyMore about Ali MapletoftAli is the founder of Creative Oxygen™, where she partners with mission-led organisations to bring fresh thinking, deeper connection, and purposeful action into leadership and collaboration. Her work spans sectors - from business to education to health - and is grounded in a belief that creativity is one of the most powerful tools we have for change.Connect with Ali:LinkedInInstagramBooks mentioned in this episode:The Courage to Create by Rollo MayThe Death of Bunny Munro by Nick CaveHow to Love Better by Yung PuebloThe Day That Went Missing by Richard BeardReferenced research on creativity:McKinsey & Company found companies strong in creative capability saw 67% higher organic revenue growth, and 74% higher net enterprise value.Read the reportBarker Langham Report: Art-based interventions can reduce workplace stress by up to 81% and boost productivity by 17%.Read the reportThe Journal of Creative Behaviour: Creativity is not just a trait—it’s a decision. People must choose to act creatively.Study by Zorana Ivcevic & Jessica D. Hoffmann.Thank you for listeningFinding Your Collaborative Edge™ is produced by Brown Bear Studios, with marketing support from SHMOGUS Media and Penny Writing.Please share, rate, and subscribe - and continue exploring how curiosity, care and courage can lead us to more creative, collaborative leadership.Explore more at www.collaborationequation.comFollow us on LinkedIn: Collaboration Equation

The Power of Human Connection - building trust, empathy and courage. A conversation with Kat Parsons, Group Head of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at Centrica

What does it take to truly collaborate?How can leaders create environments where diverse perspectives are valued, trust is nurtured, and meaningful conversations drive innovation? Finding Your Collaborative Edge™ is a podcast for leaders, teams, and professionals who want to unlock the full potential of collaboration in their organisations and lives.Hosted by Anni Townend and Lucy Kidd, co-founders of Collaboration Equation™, this show explores the essential elements of psychological safety, inclusive dialogue, and diversity of thought and feeling—helping you cultivate a mindset of curiosity, care, and courage.Each episode delves into real-world leadership challenges, expert insights, and powerful stories from those who are finding their Collaborative Edge™. Whether you’re a senior leader, team manager, or someone passionate about creating human-centred workplaces, this podcast will inspire you to build connections, embrace difference, and lead with authenticity.Join the conversation and start your journey towards more impactful, collaborative leadership. Find out more at: www.collaborationequation.comFollow us on LinkedIn: Collaboration EquationABOUT THIS EPISODE:In this episode we are delighted to be in conversation with Kat Parsons, Group Head of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion at CentricaTogether we explore:The power of open questions to create connection and build trustHow diversity metrics can get in the way of inclusive behaviours—and how to move beyond themWhat it means to invite others to feel what it’s like for someone elseFinding freedom in career change and personal rebrandingThe courage it takes to step aside, so others can step forwardKnowing when, and how, to ask for help—and to receive itKat’s three encouragements to invite you to explore your Collaborative Edge™:Find the areas you are less comfortable with, get curious and immerse yourself Notice the differences between you and others and create some flex to meet each other wellReal success is seeing others find their voice to step up and lead the wayAbout Kat:Kat is the Group Head of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion for Centrica, a thought leader who has experience driving company wide cultural change and inclusion where all colleagues feel they belong - Every Colleague Counts: Powering Inclusion: Fuelling Change.Kat’s passion and drive for change led her to join the Fellowship of Leaders, appear on the HIVE Top 75 D&I leads in EMEA and the WiTHL Women to Watch list, The Pride Power List is 2023 and 2024 as well as multiple Head of D&I Awards. Kat’s work supported ISS receiving a highly Commended commendation at the European Diversity Awards.Connect and collaborate with Kat:On LinkedInOn InstagramLearn about Centrica : https://www.linkedin.com/company/centrica/ Learn about Work Boutique : https://www.linkedin.com/company/work-boutique/ In this conversation we referenced Diversity Umbrella and Meno vests Thank you to you, the listener and viewer. And a huge thank you to Brown Bear Studios for the production of our show, to SHMOGUS Media and Pennywriting for the marketing of it.Please share, subscribe and continue to join us in Finding Your Collaborative Edge™.

The Power of the Possible - leading with curiosity and commitment: A conversation with Barrie Millett, Security and Resilience Leader, Crisis Management Expert, Collaboration Champion, at Mitie.

What does it take to truly collaborate?How can leaders create environments where diverse perspectives are valued, trust is nurtured, and meaningful conversations drive innovation? Finding Your Collaborative Edge™ is a podcast for leaders, teams, and professionals who want to unlock the full potential of collaboration in their organisations and lives.Hosted by Anni Townend and Lucy Kidd, co-founders of Collaboration Equation™, this show explores the essential elements of psychological safety, inclusive dialogue, and diversity of thought and feeling—helping you cultivate a mindset of curiosity, care, and courage.Each episode delves into real-world leadership challenges, expert insights, and powerful stories from those who are finding their Collaborative Edge™. Whether you’re a senior leader, team manager, or someone passionate about creating human-centred workplaces, this podcast will inspire you to build connections, embrace difference, and lead with authenticity.Join the conversation and start your journey towards more impactful, collaborative leadership.Find out more at: www.collaborationequation.comFollow us on LinkedIn: Collaboration EquationABOUT THIS EPISODE:In this episode we are delighted to be in conversation with Barrie Millett, Security and Resilience Leader, Crisis Management Expert, Collaboration Champion, Mitie. Together we explore:The fear of appearing to need others - and why real strength lies in connectionThe power of self-awareness as the foundation for leadershipBuilding a circle of trusted confidants who challenge and support youWhy fun isn’t a bonus - it’s essential to performanceHow trust and commitment fuel the cycle of collaborationBarrie’s three encouragements to invite you to explore your Collaborative Edge™:Understand yourself especially what drives and excites you Build a diverse team of confidants around you Remember to have fun!!Connect and collaborate with Barrie:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/barriejm/ Learn about Mitie : https://www.linkedin.com/company/mitie/Learn about the Royal Marines Charity : https://www.linkedin.com/company/thermcharity/posts/?feedView=allIn this conversation we referenced the book Raising Hare by Chloe Dalton. Learn more about Chloe here: https://www.chloedalton.uk Thank you to you, the listener and viewer. And a huge thank you to Brown Bear Studios for the production of our show, to SHMOGUS Media and Pennywriting for the marketing of it.Please share, subscribe and continue to join us in Finding Your Collaborative Edge™.

Why would anyone want to collaborate with you? Leading with Curiosity and Love - A conversation with Di Spindley, Currys + Amy Glynn, Hydrogen Group

What does it take to truly collaborate?How can leaders create environments where diverse perspectives are valued, trust is nurtured, and meaningful conversations drive innovation? Finding Your Collaborative Edge™ is a podcast for leaders, teams, and professionals who want to unlock the full potential of collaboration in their organisations and lives.Hosted by Anni Townend and Lucy Kidd, co-founders of Collaboration Equation™, this show explores the essential elements of psychological safety, inclusive dialogue, and diversity of thought and feeling—helping you cultivate a mindset of curiosity, care, and courage.Each episode delves into real-world leadership challenges, expert insights, and powerful stories from those who are finding their Collaborative Edge™. Whether you’re a senior leader, team manager, or someone passionate about creating human-centred workplaces, this podcast will inspire you to build connections, embrace difference, and lead with authenticity.Join the conversation and start your journey towards more impactful, collaborative leadership. Find out more at: www.collaborationequation.com Follow us on LinkedIn: Collaboration EquationABOUT THIS EPISODE:In this episode we are delighted to be in conversation with Di Spindley, Head of Delivery for Technology at Currys and Amy Glynn of Hydrogen group. Together we explore:The importance of clarity in creating purposeful collaboration Bringing the best version of yourself into your collaborationsWhat it means to build human connection in a virtual world The value of actively caring for colleagues and leading with love Being in collaboration with AI to create organisational value Di and Amy’s encouragements to invite you to explore your Collaborative Edge™:Get comfortable being uncomfortable to discover the growth moments that often come through failing and learning Trust yourself to discover your own pathCheck in with people - be nice!ABOUT Di and Amy:Di Spindley has worked in the Retail, Media & Entertainment sectors for 20yrs leading complex transformation programmes ranging from fashion, e-commerce, supply chain, infrastructure and digital. She is currently Head of Delivery at Currys and is passionate about E,D&I Chairing the Tech D&I committee and co-Chairs the Women’s Network. Amy Glynn has worked in the technology sector for over 6 years, a large portion of this was in DEI ~ growing a global community and helping companies to hire more diversely across technology teams. She now works for Hydrogen Group adding all this experience to workforce solutions for technology clients.Connect and collaborate with Di and Amy:LinkedIn: Di SpindleyLinkedIn: Amy GlynnLearn about Currys and Hydrogen Group: LinkedIn: CurrysLinkedIn: Hydrogen GroupThank you to you, the listener and viewer. And a huge thank you to Brown Bear Studios for the production of our show, and to SHMOGUS MEDIA for the marketing of it.Please do share and subscribe to join us next time on Finding Your Collaborative Edge™.