The Agile Diaries

In this episode, Elizabeth Venter-Botha shares how AI, change and human-centred leadership can turn uncertainty into growth. 

Most careers take unpredictable turns, but what if embracing the winding road could unlock your true potential? In this compelling episode, Richard Pharro, CEO of APMG, shares the surprising stories behind his diverse journey from civil engineering abroad to transforming professional certification on a global scale.  
Discover how working across cultures, navigating unexpected challenges, and staying curious shaped a leader who thrives outside the line of expectation. 
We break down the importance of cognitive diversity, collaborative leadership, and the human skills that AI can’t replicate; traits that will be more vital than ever in the future of work. Richard reveals invaluable lessons learned through bold projects like the London Docklands and how a simple swimming pool plan became his defining moment in making a meaningful difference. 

In this episode, Nebel Crowhurst shares her unconventional journey into HR and explores how working with business agility helps people teams become more proactive, responsive and human. 
She also discusses the rise of fractional leadership, how it is reshaping organizational strategy and why balancing technology with genuine human connection matters more than ever. 
Discover why starting small, learning fast and building on what works can create real value for you and your teams. 

Join Niamh Trundle and Dawn Constance Newman as they explore the power of curiosity in shaping a unique career.  
From music and theatre to agile workplaces, Dawn's journey is a testament to resilience and embracing individuality. Discover how her hyper-mobility disorder led to revolutionary self-care strategies and how being told she'd "never get paid to talk" fuelled her drive for change.  
Perfect for lifelong learners and change-makers, this episode is a masterclass in authenticity and finding joy in imperfection. Embrace your weird and shape your future with Dawn's inspiring insights.

In this conversation, John discusses his journey in family learning, the importance of finding fulfilment in work, and the privilege of being able to choose a career that aligns with personal values.
He shares insights on overcoming imposter syndrome, the significance of mentorship, and the role of feedback in professional growth. John emphasises the need for a culture of trust and transparency in the workplace and explains the concept of employee ownership as a model that benefits both employees and businesses.

In this episode of The Agile Diaries, Niamh Trundle speaks with Ket Patel, founder of Change Agitators and co-creator of The Change Chair. Ket shares insights from two decades in transformation, unpacking why organisations often misdiagnose “resistance” and how reframing it as sense-making creates healthier, more successful change.  
They explore the relationship between agility and change, the importance of psychological safety, and how leaders can cultivate space, framing, and accountability for productive conflict. Ket also reflects on learning culture, the future of change professionals, and how scepticism, humility, humour, and collaboration will define effective change leadership in the years ahead. 

In this episode of The Agile Diaries, host Niamh Trundle speaks with Belinda Waldock about how agility extends far beyond technology. Belinda shares her journey into agility, discussing how its principles can support personal growth, education, and wellbeing. Together, they explore the intersection of mental health and Agile, reflecting on experiences with burnout, long COVID, and the importance of creating adaptive, compassionate workplaces.
The conversation highlights how Agile thinking can benefit neurodiverse individuals and foster resilience in an AI-driven world. This episode offers an inspiring look at agility as a mindset for both professional and personal transformation.
Interested in speaking with Belinda further? Reach out to her on her socials below:
belinda@beingagile.co.uk 
https://www.beingagile.co.uk  
https://uk.linkedin.com/in/belindawaldock 
https://www.facebook.com/beingagile 

In this episode of the Agile Diaries, Andrew Burrows shares his journey from working on a farm to becoming a co-founder of Hidden Matter. 
He discusses his early experiences in the gaming industry, the importance of mentorship, and the challenges of navigating corporate culture at IBM. Andrew emphasises the significance of purpose in both personal and professional growth, the role of AI in marketing, and his aspirations for the future.

In this episode of the Agile Diaries podcast, Niamh Trundle speaks with James Dwan, CEO of Catalyst Consulting, about his journey into business agility.
They discuss the influence of James's formative years, the importance of resilience and perspective in business, and how the pandemic has reshaped the landscape of work. James shares insights on the role of AI in the future of work, the significance of neurodiversity, and the necessity of fostering a positive organisational culture.
The conversation also touches on the impact of Latin studies on James's thinking and the exciting opportunities that lie ahead in the tech landscape. 

In this engaging people-centric conversation, John Botting shares his journey from architecture to becoming an Agile practitioner. He discusses the importance of mindset, resilience, and leadership in navigating career challenges, including redundancy.  
John emphasises the significance of understanding the 'why' and 'what' in Agile practices and the role of change management in project management. He also reflects on personal growth through adversity and the need for mental health awareness in professional settings. The discussion concludes with insights on the future of contracting and the importance of building connections and authenticity in leadership.