Quiet Courage

In this episode of Quiet Courage, Caroline Pankhurst is joined by Alison Taylor, Clinical Associate Professor at NYU Stern School of Business and author of Higher Ground, and Annabel Gillard, researcher and advocate exploring ethics, organisational culture and the future of work in an AI-driven world. Together, they examine how courage shows up when decisions sit at the intersection of values, leadership, technology and organisational life.The conversation explores why speaking up remains so difficult, the role leaders play in creating psychologically safe cultures, and what happens when organisations encourage people to raise concerns without creating the conditions for meaningful action. Alison and Annabel share insights on whistleblowing, belonging, fairness, ethical decision-making and the growing tension between individual values and organisational priorities.They also discuss the impact of AI on the future of work, the opportunities technology creates for innovation and positive change, and why courage should not only be associated with resistance and challenge, but also with growth, creativity and progress. Throughout the episode, they explore the idea of collective courage - how communities, teams and shared action can help people navigate difficult decisions and drive meaningful change. A thought-provoking discussion for leaders, professionals and anyone interested in ethics, culture, technology and the courage required to shape a better future.Presenter: Caroline PankhurstContributors: Alison Taylor and Annabel GirardProducers: Olawumni Abiola, Poppy Barber and Finlay ClaytonExecutive Producer: Jimmy EwingA Be Braver and The University of Salford collaboration.

In this episode of Quiet Courage, Caroline Pankhurst is joined by Claire Camara, Chief People & Inclusion Officer who has worked for brands such as Channel4, Media Com and Co-op London 2012. Drawing on a career, spanning, retail, major global organisations and international leadership, Claire reflects on the leaders who shaped her journey and the moments that required her to take what she calls the "bravery pill". Together, they explore the relationship between courage and confidence, why leadership is so often about creating opportunities for others, and how speaking up is only one expression of courage. Claire shares insights on being the only voice in the room, advocating for change, navigating complex organisational dynamics, and knowing when courage means acting, pausing or choosing the right moment to be heard. The conversation also examines psychological safety, inclusion, mentorship, purpose-led organisations and the invisible barriers that can require some individuals to exercise courage more often than others. Throughout, Claire argues that courage is not a display of power, but an enabler of connection, innovation and growth. A reflective and inspiring discussion for anyone seeking to lead with purpose, unlock potential in others, and take the next courageous step in their own career.Presenter: Caroline PankhurstContributor: Claire Camara, Global Chief People Officer, Channel 4Producers: Olawumni Abiola, Alice Beech, Abbie Abraham, Poppy Barber and Finlay ClaytonExecutive Producer: Jimmy EwingA collaboration between Be Braver and The University of Salford

In this episode of Quiet Courage, Caroline Pankhurst is joined by expert in business psychology Dr. Amanda Potter, founder of BeTalent by Zircon and the Chief Psychology Officer Podcast, to explore what really drives the decisions we make at work.From psychological safety and cognitive bias to risk appetite and brain chemistry, this conversation unpacks the hidden forces shaping how leaders think, act and sometimes hesitate. Together, they examine why speaking up can feel difficult, how environment and personality influence judgement, and why decisiveness is not just about speed, but about curiosity, clarity and courage.Drawing on two decades of research and real world experience, Amanda shares practical insights into decision styles, team dynamics and the science behind high stakes choices. The episode also explores the tension between logic and emotion, the impact of stress and uncertainty, and the quiet courage required to act when the path is not clear.A thoughtful and grounded discussion for anyone navigating complex decisions, leadership responsibility and the human side of risk.Presenter: Caroline PankhurstContributor: Dr Amanda PotterProducers: Olawumni Abiola, Alice Beech, Abbie Abraham, Poppy Barber and Finlay ClaytonExecutive Producer: Jimmy EwingA collaboration between Be Braver and The University of Salford

In the opening episode of Quiet Courage, Caroline Pankhurst is joined by Kulwinder Johal and Carolyn Clarke to explore how courage shows up in environments shaped by regulation, scrutiny, and high accountability.Together, they examine decision-making at the sharp end of governance, cyber security, audit, and risk management. From leadership under pressure to the tension between formal controls and human judgement, this conversation looks at how responsibility is carried when the stakes are high and the outcomes uncertain.Drawing on experience across financial services, national security, professional services, and international work, the episode explores hesitation, doubt, and the quiet courage required to act when analysis alone is not enough. A thoughtful discussion about leadership, integrity, and the unseen choices that shape organisations from the inside.Host: Caroline PankhurstProducers: Olawunmi Abiola, Abigail Abraham, Poppy Barber, Alice Beech, Finlay ClaytonExec-Producer: Jimmy Ewing, University of Salford