Hearing Your Self: Debra Clelland

Welcome to another episode of The Incredible Machines Podcast! In this inspiring conversation, Jon Oliff sits down with Debra Clelland, CEO of Deaf Kids International and a powerhouse of perseverance, humility, and vision. From her early days growing up in South Africa and battling feelings of uncertainty, to years spent navigating the high-pressure world of investment banking in London, Debra opens up about the pivotal moments and life lessons that shaped her incredible journey.  Debra shares moving stories of adventure, near-disaster, and profound self-discovery from her travels around the world, and speaks honestly about her experiences with impostor syndrome—even at the pinnacle of her corporate career. She takes us through the transformative chapter of becoming a parent, the challenges and gifts of raising a deaf child, and how personal adversity became the fuel for passion-driven advocacy.  This episode is a deep dive into the magic that happens when we step outside our comfort zones, trust the process, and choose courage in the moments that count. Whether you’re looking for insight on building resilience, creating meaningful change, or just a dose of human inspiration, this conversation with Debra Clelland is not to be missed.  Timestamped Overview:  00:00 Reflecting on Teenage Choices  09:13 Crawling to Captain's Assurance  15:31 Creativity Sparked by Movement  19:22 Financial Data Analysis Challenges  22:11 "15-Year Imposter Syndrome Journey"  27:38 Pushing Limits in Marathon Training  36:11 Building Self-Worth for Success  40:34 Execution Over Strategy  44:02 Finding Courage Through Partnerships  51:19 Perception is Personal  57:31 "Deaf Children Safeguarding Mission"  01:01:59 "Deaf Kids' Global Authentic Impact"  01:07:30 Teaching Safety Awareness to Children  01:08:52 Children's Safety and Rights Advocacy  01:17:52 "Unwavering Support with Boundaries"  01:22:37 "Creating Safe Spaces for Disclosure"  01:27:47 Discomfort and Consistency Drive Success  Quote:  "There are times when life offers you a square centimeter of chance, and if you have the courage at that moment to grasp that square centimeter, your life will be changed in an instant.” - Unknown  Advertising Campaign:  “Beat The Bends” by BMW: https://youtu.be/cwPrlsJYwKY  👣 Relevant Links  Debra Clelland:    Deaf Kidz International: https://deafkidzinternational.org/our-people/   Thrive: https://www.thrivesa.org.za/how-to-get-in-touch/   LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/debra-clelland-54279b1a/   Flickr: https://www.flickr.com/photos/safeonline/53851452263   Send us a text www.tim.africa Podcast Services for Tim (The Incredible Machine) Podcast: https://www.pod.tim.africa/ Instagram: @tim.africa FB: https://www.facebook.com/timdotafrica LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/tim-africa YouTube: The Incredible Machine Don't forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode!