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‘People Can Achieve Extraordinary Things When They Believe It Is Possible’
In 1996, I became an Arctic explorer, and the first British woman to ski to the Magnetic North Pole.
Prior to that I had never been further north than Scotland – never done any cross-country skiing – and never come face to face with a polar bear before.
It made me realise that we are all capable of so much, yet we often don’t maximise the potential we have. So rather than those expedition memories remaining as photographs in an album, I wanted to use that life-changing experience to inspire others to explore their potential too.
I walk my talk. I’m an executive coach, motivational speaker, author, and podcaster whose personal achievements in business and adventure have inspired 1000s of leaders worldwide to step out of their comfort zone and achieve extraordinary results. Using a unique combination of knowledge and experience gained from elite sport, polar adventures and the world of business, I bring a professional approach, enthusiasm, and a global outlook to my work.
Since 1997, I’ve worked with over 400 organisations and 15,000 leaders worldwide and have thousands of hours of coaching experience. Clients include CEO’s, board level executives, Fortune 500 and FTSE 250 companies, academic institutions, leaders in high-performance sport, ambitious entrepreneurs, charities, and non-profit organisations worldwide.
My story is unusual and inspiring. My career began in a UK energy company where I quickly rose to become one of the youngest senior managers in the business. During this 11-year period, I took part in an Operation Raleigh expedition to Kenya, which included trekking with camels and community projects. Having realised I was capable of more, I left corporate life and embarked on a period working with the United Nations in a war zone, as part of the civilian mission.
Then in 1995 I spotted an advert in the newspaper which stated “Wanted – 10 novice arctic explorers”. Having sent for more details, the brochure arrived with the caption “Are you man enough for the Ultimate Challenge?” This made me determined to win a place in the team and was eventually selected from over 500 applicants to join the expedition led by renowned explorer David Hempleman-Adams. After a 30-day journey in one of the most extreme environments in the world, I became the first British woman to ski to the Magnetic North Pole. This was followed up with expeditions to Chile, Antarctica, Geographical North Pole and Greenland, and in 2005 I was recognised as a Pioneer to the Nation by HM the Queen.
I’m also an accomplished athlete, having represented Scotland in athletics in 1989 and 1991. This taught me about the importance of determination, focus and never giving up. On an academic level I have an MBA in Entrepreneurship; MSc in Quality Management and I’m a certified Master Executive Coach, and accredited Coaching Supervisor.
My desire to inspire others is also evidenced in my work as a podcaster. I’m co-founder and host of the Access to Inspiration podcast, ranked in the top 10% most popular shows globally, by Listen Notes, as well as hosting and producing several other podcast series.
British journalist and broadcaster, Anne Diamond interviews me for Viking TV.
Episode 260 of Podcast Junkies
Reflecting on adventures, podcasting and what I’ve learned.
Celebrating women explorers of the 20th century in a lecture for Viking TV.
Episode 291 of Inspirational Creatives podcast
Taking risks and being a polar adventurer.
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