The BU Development Lounge

E4: How to manage conflict in the workplace with Miriam Lester and Amanda Fripp

Workplace conflict can be natural part of working in teams, but it’s how we respond to it that makes the difference. In this episode, Amanda and Miriam from the Organisational Development Team at Bournemouth University explore what conflict can look like in practice, from obvious disagreements to more subtle signs like disengagement or avoidance. They discuss why conflict is often left unaddressed, the common causes behind it, and how this can impact team dynamics. Most importantly, they share practical strategies forapproaching difficult conversations with confidence, helping you move from tension to constructive dialogue.

E3: Our Voice: driving change through employee engagement with Andy Brown from ENGAGE

In this episode, Amanda and Miriam from Bournemouth University are joined by Andy Brown, co‑founder of ENGAGE, and an expert in employee engagement, leadership and organisational culture. Drawing on over 30 years’ experience across consulting, research and academia, Andy shares practical perspectives on what employee engagement really means and why it matters. They explore the role leaders play in shaping engagement, how employee surveys can add real value when done well, how anonymity and data are handled, and why it is important to have a voice.

E2: Why should leaders put their people first? with Dr Lucy Sheppard-Marks

In this episode, Amanda and Miriam chat with Dr Lucy Sheppard-Marks, Associate Head of School at BU. Lucy’s leadership experience spans both academia and the military, managing large, high performing teams. Lucy talks about what it truly means for leaders to put people first. Together, they explore the behaviours that shape people centred cultures, the skills future leaders will need, how trust and psychological safety are built and some common leadership myths along the way.

E1: How to deliver a presentation with impact

In this very first episode of the BU Development Lounge Podcast, Amanda Fripp, Organisational Development Adviser, and Miriam Lester, Leadership and Organisational Development Manager explores what it really takes to deliver a presentation that makes an impact. They discuss what makes a presentation impactful and inclusive, how to think about your audience, techniques to improve delivery and the power of storytelling. Whether you're teaching students, presenting to colleagues, or sharing ideas with wider audiences, this conversation offers practical insights to help you communicate with clarity and confidence.

The Trailer

Welcome to the trailer episode for the BU Development Lounge Podcast. Hear from Miriam Lester and Amanda Fripp from the Bournemouth University Organisational Development Team to find out what to expect from this new podcast.