Podcast Takeover - From Classroom to Construction

In this compelling episode of The Heald Approach Podcast, Clare Yelland-Friel turns the tables by interviewing Rebecca Heald, the inspiring force behind her own consultancy. Rebecca opens up about her unconventional path from being a secondary school teacher to becoming a leader in sustainability, inclusion, diversity, and well-being within the construction industry. Throughout the episode, Rebecca shares how she navigated through various career changes, personal challenges, and societal pressures to ultimately find her true calling. She dives deep into her experiences with leadership in the education sector, her battles with personal issues such as an eating disorder and an abusive marriage, and how these struggles shaped her approach to work and life. Rebecca also talks about her initial hesitations and bold decisions that led her to pivot her career into construction, despite being advised against it. She discusses the importance of diversity of thought in creating more sustainable and inclusive work environments and how her unique perspective has made a significant impact on the construction industry. Key Takeaways: Rebecca's journey from teaching to becoming a consultancy leader in construction. How personal challenges, including postnatal depression and an abusive marriage, fuelled her determination to create change in her professional life. The transition from well-being coaching to focusing on leadership and organisational development in the construction industry. Insights on the role of diversity and sustainability in transforming the construction sector. The importance of authenticity and vulnerability in building strong business relationships. Quotable Moments: "Work was my salvation. It was the only thing that could take me away from everything else." "I had to learn how to lead and coach quickly, and it was a steep learning curve." "I think we need to embrace vulnerability and show that it's actually a strength, not a weakness." Follow Us: Rebecca Heald: LinkedIn Clare Yelland-Friel: LinkedIn Subscribe & Share:If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe and share it with your network. Stay tuned for more inspiring stories and insights from leaders making a difference in their industries.