Kicking The Door Down

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Kicking The Door Down is a business podcast hosted by Debbie Airey, with 44 episodes on record and a Required Pod Score of 80. PitchCentric scores this show on Booking Probability, Listen Score, and live audience signals refreshed every 24 hours.

Debbie Airey hosts Kicking The Door Down, a business show with 44 episodes published.

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  Episode #20

  Kicking the Door Down with Rob Bennett: Why Curiosity Matters More Than Grades

  Aug 17, 20261h 12mS2

  Empowering Future Innovators: Rob Bennett's Mission in STEM Discover how Rob Bennett inspires confidence and curiosity in youth. In a world where curiosity often takes a backseat, Rob Bennett is on a mission to ignite passion for learning in the next generation. In our recent conversation, Rob shared insights from his journey and his commitment to reshaping how young people engage with STEM subjects. The Power of Curiosity Rob grew up in Cornwall during a time when learning was less structured and more exploratory. He recalls, "School got in the way of learning... it was an interruption in my day." This idea resonates with many who feel trapped by traditional education systems that prioritise rote memorisation over genuine curiosity. Embracing Failure as a Learning Tool Rob emphasises the importance of reframing failure. He believes that failure is not the end but rather a vital part of the learning process. In his workshops, he actively encourages students to embrace failure: "If I did a workshop where everything was easy, you wouldn't learn anything." Confidence and Collaboration in Learning Interestingly, Rob has observed a consistent trend in his workshops: female teams often outperform their male counterparts in engineering challenges. This achievement, he notes, often stems from their natural inclination towards collaboration, while male teams tend to compete. "The only thing that you lack is confidence," he tells young girls in his workshops, reinforcing their potential for success. A Call for Change in Education Rob challenges the conventional wisdom that university is the best path for everyone. He advocates for apprenticeships as a more viable route for many students, urging a shift in how we perceive success in education. "I would say apprenticeship is by far the best route," he asserts, highlighting the need for real-world experience over academic accolades. The Role of Industry in Education As our conversation unfolded, Rob expressed a desire to bridge the gap between education and industry. He believes that businesses must play a more active role in mentoring young people. "Industry is saying we want this, but schools are saying this is success, which is exam results." Rob's insights remind us that the future of education lies in fostering curiosity, confidence and collaboration. As we continue to navigate the complexities of learning in the digital age, his work serves as a beacon of hope for a brighter, more innovative future. For more of Rob's inspiring ideas and strategies on nurturing the next generation of innovators, listen to the full episode. https://www.linkedin.com/in/robbennett-inspiration/ Kicking The Door Down

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  Episode #19

  Kicking the Door Down with Carolyn Larue: Exploring the intersection of life coaching and construction

  Aug 10, 202654 minS2

  Summary In this conversation, Debbie and Carolyn discuss Carolyn's multifaceted career as a life coach, electrician, and building automation engineer. They explore the challenges women face in the construction industry, including misogyny and the need for allyship. Carolyn shares her experiences and insights on empowering women through coaching, the importance of education, and the impact of societal norms on gender roles. The discussion also touches on the backlash against gender equality and the role of media in perpetuating misogynistic attitudes. In this conversation, Carolyn and Debbie explore the persistent issues of workplace culture, particularly regarding gender dynamics and the challenges women face in male-dominated industries. They discuss the importance of coaching and empowerment for women, the concept of the spoon theory as a metaphor for energy management, and the necessity of compassion in personal growth. The conversation also highlights the need for addressing emotional triggers in the workplace to foster a healthier environment for all employees. Takeaways Carolyn has a diverse career as a life coach and electrician. Misogyny in the construction industry is often covert and unrecognized. Women are socialized to keep the peace and avoid conflict. Coaching can empower women to stand up against misogyny. Education is crucial for preparing future generations for workplace challenges. Chivalry can undermine women's capabilities in the workplace. Backlash against gender equality often follows progress. Media can perpetuate misogynistic attitudes through humor. Men also suffer from rigid gender norms and expectations. Creating a supportive community is essential for women's empowerment. The workplace culture still reflects outdated attitudes towards women. Women often feel like the negative element in professional settings. Flipping the narrative can lead to better accountability. Support systems for women in the workplace are crucial. The spoon theory helps visualize energy management. Compassion is essential for personal growth and understanding others. Emotional triggers can hinder workplace performance. Practical tools are necessary for managing stress and anxiety. Coaching can empower women to advocate for themselves. Addressing emotional well-being is key to improving workplace dynamics. https://www.linkedin.com/in/carolynlarue/ https://carolynlarue.com/ Kicking The Door Down

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  Episode #18

  Kicking the Door Down with Julia Ward: Founder of FLISS. Project director at Xela Energy. Mother. Three roles, one woman

  Aug 5, 202655 minS2

  Discover how mentorship, societal barriers, and flexible work culture shape women’s careers in STEM—and how you can be part of the change. When Julia founded FLISS, a free mentoring charity dedicated to female leaders in STEM, she aimed to break down the barriers that keep women from thriving. Her story and insights reveal the hidden challenges women face—from societal expectations around motherhood and career to outdated workplace norms—and the powerful impact of community-driven solutions.Join Debbie and Julia in a candid conversation that unpacks the critical issues facing women in the workforce today. You'll discover: why societal values still hold women back, how workplace culture and leadership often perpetuate exclusion, and the profound influence of mentorship at every career stage. Julia shares stories from her own journey—balancing motherhood, entrepreneurship, and advocacy—and explains how flexible working and generational mentoring are redefining what success looks like for women. We also break down concrete tactics to foster inclusive environments: from rethinking traditional office hours, challenging outdated social norms, to implementing systems that support breastfeeding and parental leave. This episode underscores the urgency of systemic change, highlighting how businesses can unlock untapped talent and accelerate diversity by valuing real inclusion over tick-box initiatives. Whether you're a woman navigating your career, a leader committed to cultural transformation, or someone eager to support future generations, this conversation offers practical insights and inspiring stories to drive real change. Perfect for those who believe in equity, want to challenge the status quo, and are ready to kick down barriers to create a more inclusive, innovative workplace. Julia is the founder of FLISS, a charity committed to mentoring women in STEM, known for her advocacy in breaking societal and workplace barriers to female leadership. Debbie is a podcast host passionate about empowering women in the workplace, exploring the systemic shifts needed for true inclusion.Get ready to rethink how we support women at work—and how you can be part of the movement. This is essential listening if you're committed to gender equity, workplace innovation, and creating a future where everyone can thrive. https://www.fliss.uk/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/flissuk/posts/?feedView=all https://www.linkedin.com/in/julia-ward-1440523b/?skipRedirect=true Kicking The Door Down

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  Episode #17

  Kicking the Door Down with Clare Nash: Retrofitting Architecture: Sustainability, Women in Architecture & Building the Future

  Jul 24, 202652 minS2

  Kicking the Door Down: How Retrofit Architecture Can Transform Our Spaces In this insightful episode of Kicking the Door Down, host Debbie is joined by Clare Nash, an architect specializing in retrofit architecture. Together, they explore the importance of retrofitting in the architectural landscape, particularly in the UK, and discuss the unique challenges and opportunities it presents. If you’re curious about how retrofitting can not only preserve but enhance existing structures, this post is for you. ### What is Retrofit Architecture? Retrofitting refers to the process of modifying existing buildings to improve energy efficiency, safety, or aesthetics without tearing them down. As Clare explains, the UK is at a critical juncture where retrofitting is not just beneficial but necessary due to the increasing demand for sustainable living solutions. This approach not only extends the life of buildings but also aligns with environmental goals by reducing waste and promoting sustainability. ### The Journey into Architecture Clare’s journey into architecture began with a unique blend of art and mathematics, encouraged by a teacher who recognized her talents. Growing up in a farming environment, she gained hands-on experience in construction, which demystified building sites for her. Clare initially ventured into interior architecture, realizing its potential but also the limitations placed on the profession, particularly in the UK. This realization led her to pursue a more comprehensive architectural education, ultimately culminating in her specialization. ### The Need for Change in Architectural Education One of the most significant insights from Clare’s experience is the disparity between architectural education and real-world practice. In the UK, the path to becoming an architect can take up to seven years, with many students feeling unprepared for the practical challenges they face in the industry. Clare argues that while design skills are essential, understanding the practical aspects of construction is equally crucial. This gap in education can lead to frustrations among new architects who find themselves ill-equipped to handle the realities of their jobs. ### Addressing Gender Disparities in Architecture A vital aspect of the discussion revolves around gender disparities in the architecture field. Clare highlights how women often face additional challenges in their careers, especially when balancing family life and demanding work schedules. The industry can be unforgiving, with long hours and high-pressure environments contributing to a significant drop-off of women after they enter the workforce. Clare advocates for a more inclusive and supportive workplace culture that recognizes the contributions of all architects, regardless of gender. ### The Impact of Mental Health on the Architectural Profession Additionally, Clare sheds light on the mental health challenges prevalent in architecture. The pressure to perform and the blame culture often found in traditional practices can lead to burnout and stress. By fostering an environment of collaboration and understanding, Clare’s practice seeks to combat these issues. She emphasizes the importance of normalizing mistakes and creating a supportive culture where architects can thrive without the fear of blame. ### Conclusion Through her passion for retrofit architecture and dedication to creating a positive work environment, Clare Nash is reshaping the architectural landscape. Her insights serve as a reminder of the importance of sustainability, inclusivity, and mental well-being in the profession. For those interested in learning more about the transformative power of retrofitting and the future of architecture, Claire’s work offers valuable lessons and inspiration. Want to delve deeper? Watch the full conversation with Clare Nash on Kicking the Door Down, and explore how we can all contribute to a more sustainable future through architecture. https://clarenasharchitecture.co.uk/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/clarenasharchitect/ Kicking The Door Down

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  Episode #16

  Kicking the Door Down with Emma Riley: Let's Help Find The Veterans Who Don't Know They're Entitled

  Jul 18, 202656 minS2

  ⚠️ Content & Trigger Warning This episode contains discussions of historical discrimination, homophobia, trauma, mental health, sexual assault, rape, bullying, coercive questioning, and suicide-related themes. Some listeners may find the content distressing. Please listen with care and take a break if you need to. Episode Description What happens when the very organisation you dedicate your life to serving turns against you? In this deeply moving episode of Kicking the Door Down , I sit down with Emma Riley , a former Royal Navy veteran whose life was changed forever by the UK's ban on LGBT+ personnel serving in the Armed Forces. After confiding in someone she trusted that she thought she might be gay, Emma was arrested, interrogated, humiliated and discharged from the Royal Navy under a policy that has since been ruled illegal by the European Court of Human Rights. But this conversation isn't only about history. It's about the trauma that follows people for decades. The shame they were made to carry. The relationships affected. The identities stolen. And the extraordinary courage it takes to tell that story today. We also discuss the UK Government's LGBT Veterans Financial Recognition Scheme, why so many eligible veterans are still not coming forward, and why this conversation matters now more than ever. The scheme closes on 12 December , meaning time is running out for many people to receive both financial recognitiohttps://www.gov.uk/government/publications/veterans-of-the-lgbt-ban-financial-recognition-scheme/lgbt-financial-recognition-scheme-guide-how-to-apply-for-a-financial-recognition-paymentn and, perhaps more importantly, validation for what happened to them. Whether you have served, know someone who has, work alongside veterans, or simply believe in fairness and dignity, this is an episode that deserves to be heard. If you know someone who served in the UK Armed Forces before 2000 and may have been affected by the ban on LGBT+ personnel, please share this episode. It could change their life. Please contact Emma Riley for more information linkedin.com/in/emma-riley-vdc emmariley.uk https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/veterans-of-the-lgbt-ban-financial-recognition-scheme https://www.fightingwithpride.org.uk/reparations/lgbt-financial-recognition-scheme/ Kicking The Door Down

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