Walking the Talk

Confidence, Authenticity and Impact

In this episode of Walking the Talk, Robert Lloyd Griffiths OBE is joined by Jessica Shipman, Chair of NatWest Cymru, for a walk up the Cribarth mountain in the Bannau Brycheiniog. Jessica shares her personal journey into leadership, shaped not by a single defining moment, but by the people, experiences and challenges that built her over time. She reflects on stepping into senior roles, and learning that leadership isn’t about having all the answers - it’s about showing up with authenticity, active listening, and creating space for others to thrive. Rooted in a strong sense of community, Jessica talks about the responsibility that comes with leadership, and her commitment to using her position to support others and make a meaningful difference across Wales. *Recorded in October 2025

Connecting People and Possibilities: The Power of Collaboration

In this episode of Walking the Talk, Robert Lloyd Griffiths OBE takes a stroll through the Bannau Brycheiniog with Dan Langford OBE - Managing Director of The Skills Centre and Co-founder of Wales Week London.   Together they explore Dan’s remarkable career journey; from his early days in marketing to becoming one of the driving forces in promoting Welsh business on the global stage. Along the way, Dan shares reflections on leadership, collaboration, and why being “in the room” matters more than ever.   From the origins of Wales Week to the importance of brand Wales, this is an inspiring conversation about connection, creativity and the value of doing things together.

What Makes a Good Leader?

In this episode, Call of the Wild's Head of Professional Practice, Dr Barrie Kennard, reflects on his journey from training for the Merchant Navy as a young man to becoming a passionate advocate for effective leadership. He shares how his early career struggles with poor management at BT inspired him to lead differently - with empathy, honesty, and humility. The conversation explores why Barrie believes leadership is too often overcomplicated, and how he makes complex ideas relatable and practical. Key themes include emotional intelligence, communication, mentoring, and the power of admitting when you’re wrong. Barrie’s down-to-earth approach and belief in the strength of “ordinariness” have shaped leaders across the UK and beyond. Join us to hear how his positivity and genuine outlook continue to inspire the next generation of leaders.

In Service of People and Place

In this episode of Walking the Talk, we take a walk with Ben Cottam, Head of Wales at the Federation of Small Businesses, as he reflects on nearly a decade of championing small businesses and looks ahead to his next chapter at the Canal & River Trust. From political roots to purpose-led leadership, Ben shares how staying true to values, listening closely, and putting people first has shaped every step of his career.

Breaking Barriers, Building Futures

In this powerful first episode of Walking the Talk, host Robert Lloyd Griffiths OBE takes a walk up the Cribarth in South Wales with Sharon James-Evans, Principal of Cardiff and Vale College. From her school days in Merthyr Tydfil to leading one of the UK’s largest FE colleges, Sharon shares the stories, people, and purpose that have shaped her remarkable journey. It’s a conversation full of grit, passion, and the unshakable belief that education can transform lives — especially for those who need it most.