From Centre Stage to Storytelling: This Was Always the Path, SoT welcomes Maureen Manning

In this episode of Sex on Top, we’re joined by Maureen Manning, Founder and Principal Strategist of The Global Nexus Collective whose journey from aspiring performer to global education strategist is a powerful story of purpose, identity, and impact.What began as a love for storytelling on stage took an unexpected turn during a formative study abroad experience at sixteen reshaping not just Maureen’s path, but her understanding of how stories can influence people, systems, and the world around us.We explore the role of storytelling in leadership, and how building authentic narratives can elevate both individuals and organisations particularly in complex and shifting global contexts. From navigating the realities of the “sandwich generation” to making intentional, sometimes difficult life choices, Maureen shares what it means to lead with clarity, conviction, and care.We also dive into mentorship, community, and the importance of surrounding yourself with people who challenge and champion you alongside the courage it takes to show up fully as yourself.Thoughtful, honest, and deeply reflective, this episode is a reminder that the path isn’t always linear but when you lead with purpose and authenticity, every chapter has meaning,Follow your hosts Lily Wednesday and Alice Ludgate onInsta ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠@LilyWednesday73⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠LinkedIn ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Lily Wednesday ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ Alice Ludgate⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Follow Maureen LinkedIn Dr Maureen Manning ⁠ The Global Nexus Collective Website ⁠The Global Nexus Collective Leadership networks mentioned by Maureen in this episode -World Council on Global and Intercultural Competence Global Leadership League Chapters00:00 Introduction to Women in Leadership02:11 Meet Maureen - A Journey Through Leadership03:43 The Power of Storytelling in Education09:20 Creating a Career From a Passion09:46 Making Choices in Career and Family17:17 Normalizing Personal Choices19:32 The Sandwich Generation Experience23:18 Authenticity in Storytelling25:01 Creating Supportive Communities27:41 The Role of Mentorship31:39 Taking the Leap: Embracing Uncertainty33:35 The Value of Credentials and Breaking Free37:59 Understanding Your Value in the Sector39:17 The Power of Storytelling and Performance43:02 Navigating Grief and Personal Growth43:02 Mentorship and Lifting Others Up