#41 | The Conversation That Started Everything & the Leadership & Influence Lessons Jon Turner Left Behind.

This is a very special episode of the podcast.Today’s conversation is with Jon Turner, Managing Director of Siemens Electrification & Automation in the UK and Ireland AND the very first person I interviewed for the book research that sparked this whole project. It was in this conversation that the “little moves” pattern first became impossible to ignore.Jon’s career was shaped by sliding-door moments, chance conversations, small risks, great mentors, and a deep willingness to learn. From a lift conversation that led to a life-changing opportunity, to navigating career pivots, leadership challenges, and glass ceilings, Jon’s story is a powerful reminder that careers are rarely linear and that patience, curiosity and relationships matter more than perfect plans. What really stands out in this interview, though, isn’t just what Jon did; it’s how he did it.He talks openly about:Why making mistakes early in your career is not just normal, but essentialThe danger of ambition running ahead of learningWhy authenticity matters more than trying to “fit the mould”How mentoring (and reverse mentoring) shapes better leadersWhy strong teams are built on trust, energy and everyday human connectionAnd why being an avid learner is the most important career strategy of allJon also speaks beautifully and proudly about his wife, Alison, and the partnership behind his career, reminding us that success is never a solo sport, and that the people who support us matter just as much as the roles we hold. Very sadly, Jon passed away suddenly in November after a short battle with kidney cancer. With the generous blessing of his wife, Alison, I am honoured to share his words in this episode and to help keep Jon’s legacy of warmth, curiosity, generosity and belief in people alive.If you’ve ever felt pressure to have your whole career mapped out…If you’ve ever worried about making the “wrong” move… Or if you simply want a reminder that great careers are built one small, human step at a time…This episode is for you.🎧 And if you take something from Jon’s words, Ali and I would love to hear it. You can share your reflections with me at [email protected] - your messages mean more than you know.New episodes are released every Monday, Wednesday and Friday mornings.Stuck, simmering, or onto something juicy? I want to hear it. Drop me a line at [email protected] - I read them all.And here is the Spotify Playlist to accompany UnShakeable Her.Unshakeable Her is the podcast for women in leadership who are ready to build real influence, earn the promotion they deserve, and lead with confidence in systems that weren't built for them. Each episode tackles the challenges that shape leadership from the inside out, including imposter syndrome, resilience, credibility, boundaries, conflict, and feedback, while unpacking how pressure, workplace politics, strategic thinking, decision-making, and visibility affect the way ambitious women grow, lead, and get promoted without losing themselves in the process.