Best Canny Conversations Podcasts (2025)

1
31. Parenting by Design 24:41

9d ago24:41

24:41

Ever wondered why parenting feels so challenging at times, especially when your child seems to operate differently than you do? In this episode, I'm excited to share a major expansion in my business - bringing Human Design principles into parenting approaches to create more harmony and understanding in family dynamics. I'm opening up about my own j…

1
Louise Timperley Apprenticeship manager at The Co-Op - Part 2 35:49

2M ago35:49

35:49

In the continuation of our conversation with Louise we take a closer look at how employers can play a central role in skills development and employability, with a particular focus on diversity and inclusion within the workforce. Louise discusses her time at the Co-op, where she has seen first hand the impact of apprenticeships in fostering not just…

1
Louise Timperley Apprenticeship manager at The Co-Op - Part 1 35:40

3M ago35:40

35:40

Explore the multifaceted world of the Co-op Group and uncover the secrets behind their expansive reach beyond just food stores. Louise Timperley, a long-time leader in apprenticeship skills at Co-op, shines a light on the organization, which also operates funeral care homes, legal services, and insurance branches. With a workforce of 57,000 nationw…

1
30. From Burnout to Alignment: Reimagining Your Business Offers 18:26

3M ago18:26

18:26

Ever wonder why some business offers feel like a constant uphill battle, while others flow effortlessly? In this episode, I'm sharing how understanding your unique energetic design could be the missing piece in creating offers that truly work for you. I'm opening up about my own journey, including the moment I realised why my early offers weren't w…

1
Paddy Craven - The Director of Policy at the City & Guilds Group - Part 2 29:50

3M ago29:50

29:50

In this second half of Safaraz's conversation with Paddy Craven the Director of Policy at the City and Guilds group. They are talking about non-linear career path as Paddy tells us about his fascinating journey from art and design to a leadership role in policy and stakeholder partnerships. Paddy shares captivating insights into how diverse experie…

1
29. Unlocking Six Figure Money Moves with Carla Townsend 58:05

3M ago58:05

58:05

*JOIN MONEY MOVES - NOW ENROLLING* In this episode, we dive deep into the mindset shifts and practical strategies required to break through income ceilings and step fully into a purpose-driven business. We explore money mindset blocks, conditioning from childhood, and the importance of embodying success through aligned action. If you've ever felt c…

1
Paddy Craven - The Director of Policy at the City & Guilds Group - Part 1 30:40

3M ago30:40

30:40

In this latest episode of the podcast, Safaraz’s is in conversation with Paddy Craven, Director of Policy at City & Guilds group. Paddy talks to Safaraz about the transformative power of vocational education and how City & Guilds has become a leading force in skills development with their remarkable 140-year legacy. He goes on to tell us about the …

1
Adam Vasco - Director of Diversity & Inclusion - University of Wolverhampton - Part 3 28:24

3M ago28:24

28:24

Have you ever wondered how education can shape not just your career, but your entire self? Join us as we unravel the transformative journey of Adam Vasco the Director of Diversity & Inclusion at University of Wolverhampton, whose leadership evolution and personal growth offer a compelling narrative about the intersection of education, identity, and…

1
Adam Vasco - Director of Diversity & Inclusion - University of Wolverhampton - Part 2 32:56

4M ago32:56

32:56

Can cultural competency truly transform education? Join us as Adam Vasco, the Director of Diversity & Inclusion at the University of Wolverhampton, with doctoral expertise, shares his ground-breaking research on cultural humility and inclusivity strategies. Drawing inspiration from thought leaders like Terry Cross and Dr. Milton Bennett, Adam has d…

1
28. January Human Design Insights & Rave New Year 23:26

4M ago23:26

23:26

Welcome back to Magnetic by Design! We're Kicking off 2025 with fresh energy, Nicole Towers breaks down what the Human Design New Year (aka the Rave New Year) means for you. In this solo episode, she dives into January's key transits and shows you exactly how to tap into these energies to level up both your personal life and career. Nicole explores…

1
Adam Vasco - Director of Diversity & Inclusion - University of Wolverhampton - Part 1 29:45

4M ago29:45

29:45

Adam Vasco, the Director of Diversity and Inclusion at the University of Wolverhampton, brings his rich tapestry of experiences to our conversation, offering a profound glimpse into what it truly means to integrate equality within an academic environment. With his Nigerian and Scouse roots deeply influencing his approach, Adam takes us through the …

1
Kim Hardman, AstraZeneca’s Director of Apprenticeships - Part 2 27:41

5M ago27:41

27:41

Unlock the secrets to standing out in the increasingly competitive world of apprenticeships with our latest episode featuring Kim Hardman, the Director of Apprenticeships at AstraZeneca. Discover how AstraZeneca's apprenticeship program has evolved into a well-oiled machine that not only develops hard skills but also prioritises personal growth and…

1
27. The Power of Uniqueness in Business 17:49

5M ago17:49

17:49

I return after a six-month hiatus of the Magnetic by Design podcast, to discuss the importance of honouring your uniqueness in business. I share my personal journey of managing a busy life while being a mum and entrepreneur, reflecting on the challenges of overcommitting. I used to think success meant being available 24/7, posting daily content, an…

1
Kim Hardman, AstraZeneca’s Director of Apprenticeships - Part 1 33:24

5M ago33:24

33:24

Kim Hardman, AstraZeneca's Director of Apprenticeships, opens up about her extraordinary 23-year journey with the company, offering a unique insider perspective on the evolution of apprenticeships in the world of science and technology. Under the leadership of CEO Pascal Soriot, Kim has not only witnessed, but actively contributed to the company's …

1
Canny Conversations Contemplations - Series 5 - Part 4 23:51

5M ago23:51

23:51

Welcome to the latest in our special episode of Canny Conversations Contemplations where we take a look back at some of the highlights from series 5 and Safaraz's interviews with some of the people involved with, and supporting, the Multi Cultural Apprenticeship Alliance. In this episode we hear from Jenny Pelling, Director of Apprenticeship Develo…

1
Canny Conversations Contemplations - Series 5 - Part 3 23:24

5M ago23:24

23:24

In this episode we have brought together some clips of Saf’s conversations with, first, Paul Eeles, the CEO of The Skills and Education Group. and then followed Jan Richardson-Wilde, CEO of Occupational Awards Limited, Safaraz talks to Paul and Jan about their journey and careers, and some of what they bring to the multi-cultural alliance.…

1
Canny Conversations Contemplations - Series 5 - Part 2 20:32

6M ago20:32

20:32

Welcome to this second special episode of Canny Conversations Contemplations where we take a look back at some of the highlights from series 5 and Safaraz's interviews with some of the people involved with, and supporting, the Multi Cultural Apprenticeship Alliance. In this episode we hear from Viren Patel, the CEO of Open University World Wide and…

1
Canny Conversations Contemplations - Series 5 - Part 1 25:21

6M ago25:21

25:21

Welcome to the first of these special episodes of the Canny Conversations Podcast where we are going to look back at some of the guests we’ve been hearing from in this current series. Your host, Safaraz Ali has been working in the Birmingham Business Community for 26 years and is the founder of the Multicultural Apprenticeship Awards and the Multic…

1
Derrin Kent - TDM Limited - Part 3 33:54

6M ago33:54

33:54

Is the traditional 9-5 workday hindering your potential? Discover how fostering a culture of lifelong learning and adaptability can bridge the digital skills gap within your organization. We challenge employers to move beyond outdated training methods and instead champion a dynamic environment of continuous learning for all employees, regardless of…

1
Derrin Kent - TDM Limited - Part 2 36:26

6M ago36:26

36:26

In the second part of this conversation between Safaraz Ali and Derrin Kent from TDM, they explore the transformative potential of employer accountability and engagement in apprenticeship programs. Derrin highlights the critical role of employers in driving the apprenticeship process, fostering a partnership that emphasizes experiential, on-the-job…

1
Derrin Kent - TDM Limited - Part 1 40:45

7M ago40:45

40:45

In this brand-new episode of Canny Conversations, Safaraz is talking to Derrin Kent, Managing Director of TDM Limited. In the first part of this three part conversation Derrin tells us about his beginnings, teaching English as a foreign language, and goes on to share his inspiring path to becoming a leader in apprenticeship and development sectors.…

1
Emily Rock - The CEO of the Association of Apprentices - Part 2 33:25

7M ago33:25

33:25

From influential roles at Lloyd's Banking Group to pioneering transformations at Capita, Emily Rock's journey from the world of banking to the vibrant landscape of skills and training is nothing short of inspiring. We dive into the complexities and triumphs experienced during their transition, especially amidst the difficulties of the COVID-19 pand…

1
Emily Rock - The CEO of the Association of Apprentices - Part 1 27:49

7M ago27:49

27:49

In this episode we hear the first half of Safaraz's conversation with Emily Rock, the dynamic CEO of the Association of Apprentices She joins him to share her inspiring journey from corporate life to leading a micro-organization dedicated to supporting apprentices. We discover the unique challenges she faces in her role and her innovative strategie…

1
Phil Wilkinson - CEO of Ascentis - Part 3 31:17

8M ago31:17

31:17

What if the secret to educational excellence lies in focusing on quality over rapid expansion? Join us in an inspiring discussion as we journey through the remarkable transformation of Nelson & Clone College Group under the stewardship of Phil Wilkinson. Safaraz and Phil unpack the strategic decisions that prioritized exceptional student experience…

1
Phil Wilkinson - CEO of Ascentis - Part 2 32:31

8M ago32:31

32:31

Join us for the second part of this insightful journey into the dynamic evolution of Ascentis, as we explore its board structure and strategic direction. We begin by discussing the significant transformation from a cumbersome 50-member board to a streamlined seven-member team, comprising trustees from various educational sectors. Phil Wilkinson, th…

1
Phil Wilkinson - CEO of Ascentis - Part 1 33:12

8M ago33:12

33:12

Welcome to Canny Conversations! In this episode, we delve into the inspiring journey of Phil Wilkinson, the visionary CEO of Ascentis, who transformed a small educational charity into a £7 million powerhouse. Learn about Ascentis’ innovative qualifications for further education colleges, training organizations, and schools worldwide, as well as the…

1
Dr Mandy Crawford-Lee FRSA, CEO of The University Vocational Awards Council - Part 3 31:35

8M ago31:35

31:35

How can we transform the landscape of skills development to meet the demands of a rapidly changing workforce? Tune in as we investigate the critical role of health, particularly mental health, in workforce planning. We'll uncover how the NHS and local governments are leveraging the apprenticeship levy to address shortages, particularly in nursing a…

1
Dr Mandy Crawford-Lee FRSA, CEO of The University Vocational Awards Council - Part 2 26:53

9M ago26:53

26:53

In this brand-new episode Safaraz Ali is in conversation with Dr. Mandy Crawford-Lee, FRSA, the CEO of The University Vocational Awards Council. In this second part of three, they take a dive deep into the transformative impact of the apprenticeship levy since its inception in 2017. They also explore how it has driven significant investments, parti…

1
Dr Mandy Crawford-Lee FRSA, CEO of The University Vocational Awards Council - Part 1 29:16

9M ago29:16

29:16

What if the key to solving the UK's productivity puzzle lies in transforming apprenticeships? Join us as Dr. Mandy Crawford-Lee, FRSA, Chief Executive of the University Vocational Awards Council (UVAC), unveils the extraordinary evolution of apprenticeships over UVAC's 25-year history. Mandy, the first female chief executive of UVAC, shares her ins…

1
Rob Colbourne OBE – CEO at Performance Through People – Part 3 37:38

9M ago37:38

37:38

Uncover the secrets of transformational leadership in the vocational training sector. This episode promises to reveal how adopting inspirational and empowering leadership methods can spark growth and learning within your team. From leading by example to fostering an environment where manageable mistakes are opportunities for growth, our guest share…

1
Rob Colbourne OBE – CEO at Performance Through People – Part 2 34:50

9M ago34:50

34:50

What drives a 15-year-old to leave school and dive headfirst into the workforce? Our guest shares his courageous journey from facing resistance at home and school to discovering a transformative apprenticeship at Debenhams. Through personal anecdotes, he reveals how the Tomorrow's Young Manager program not only shaped his professional values but al…

1
Rob Colbourne OBE – CEO at Performance Through People – Part 1 33:17

10M ago33:17

33:17

What happens when vocational training meets visionary leadership? Join us as we sit down, for the first of this three part conversation, with Rob Colbourne OBE, the dynamic CEO and co-owner of Performance Through People (PTP). From its roots in the Walsall Chamber of Commerce in the 1960s to becoming a major player with 1,500 apprentices and 80 sta…

1
Laura-Jane Rawlings MBE, CEO of Youth Employment UK - Part 2 24:59

10M ago24:59

24:59

In this latest episode Safaraz concludes his conversation with Laura-Jane Rawlings MBE, Founder and CEO of Youth Employment UK. They will be examining the critical issue of youth unemployment as Laura-Jane shares her expertise on creating youth-friendly employment initiatives, rethinking hiring processes, and the power of mentorship She gives us pr…

1
Laura-Jane Rawlings MBE, CEO of Youth Employment UK - Part 1 27:46

10M ago27:46

27:46

Laura Jane Rawlings, MBE, the dynamic founder and CEO of Youth Employment UK, joins us to shed light on the powerful impact of incorporating young voices in employment policy-making. Through her inspiring narrative, Laura highlights the organization's mission and the significance of their annual Youth Voice Census, which offers a detailed look at t…

1
Pat Carvalho - Principal & CEO of Birmingham Metropolitan College - Part 3 31:39

10M ago31:39

31:39

In this latest episode of The Canny Conversations podcast, Safaraz continues his chat with Pat Carvalho, the principal and CEO of Birmingham Metropolitan College. In this third and final part of Safaraz and Pat’s chat, they take a deep dive into the subjects of leadership and vision, as well as looking forward to the future plans for the college. T…

1
Pat Carvalho - Principal & CEO of Birmingham Metropolitan College - Part 2 31:31

11M ago31:31

31:31

In this second part of three we delve into the world of further education leadership with Pat, a seasoned leader in the sector. In this particular episode, Pat shares insights on the importance of collaboration between colleges and employers, the evolution of colleges in meeting the needs of students and businesses, and the challenges and opportuni…

1
26. Alignment & Reflectors 21:36

11M ago21:36

21:36

Welcome back to the Magnetic by Design: A Human Design podcast. In Human Design, each Type has a Not-Self theme which is a feeling that comes up and is your warning sign for being out of alignment. Generators feel frustrated, Manifestors experience anger, Manifesting Generators can feel frustration or anger, for Projectors it's bitterness and Refle…

1
Pat Carvalho - Principal & CEO of Birmingham Metropolitan College - Part 1 34:45

11M ago34:45

34:45

In this brand-new episode of The Canny Conversations podcast, Safaraz welcomes Pat Carvalho, the principal and CEO of Birmingham Metropolitan College. Pat begins by discusses the recent successful Ofsted inspection and the college's journey towards becoming an outstanding institution. Saf and Pat’s conversation then delves into the diverse makeup o…

1
25. Manifest Your Potential Through Your Purpose with 1/3 Manifestor, Loretta Spatocco 41:30

11M ago41:30

41:30

In this episode, Loretta dives deep into her 10-year journey of embracing authenticity and the crucial role of support in personal growth and well-being. Reflecting on her experiences, she shares the wisdom and gratitude gained from balancing work-from-home life with motherhood, while passionately supporting graduates, parents returning to work, an…

1
24. Interior Design Tips to Unleash Your Creativity with 3/5 Emotional MG, Michelle Canny 47:57

12M ago47:57

47:57

In this episode, I speak to Michelle Canny, an award-winning interior designer known for her ability to create warm, inviting and authentic spaces that reflect her clients' personalities. Michelle discusses her design philosophy, the importance of understanding her clients' unique styles, integrating their personal memories into their living spaces…

1
23. Exploring Astrocartography with 2/4 Projector, Tyler Anuranita 40:16

1y ago40:16

40:16

Ever wondered how your astrology could influence your ideal living location? 🌎✨ Dive into the world of astrocartography in this latest episode featuring locational astrologer, holistic wellness coach and 2/4 Projector, Tyler Anuranita! We chat about how your astrological chart reveals the best places for you to live, travel, and thrive. Are there s…

1
Charlotte Bosworth-Managing Director of Innovate Awarding-Part 2 41:50

1y ago41:50

41:50

In this latest episode we return to Safaraz’s conversation with Charlotte Bosworth, the Managing Director of Innovate Awards. They return to the subjects of, skills development, education, and workforce evolution. Charlotte emphasizes the importance of adapting to employer needs, broadening support beyond formal qualifications, plus enhancing workf…

1
Charlotte Bosworth-Managing Director of Innovate Awarding-Part 1 38:02

1y ago38:02

38:02

In this brand-new episode of Canny Conversations Safaraz will be talking to Charlotte Bosworth, the Managing Director of Innovate Awards, an awarding organization making waves in the industry. Listen as Charlotte takes us through her journey, from a challenging upbringing to her impactful career choices. Discover the secrets behind Innovate Awards'…

1
22. How Personal Struggles Led to Intuitive Innovations with 5/1 Mani Gen Marketa Bosakova 49:34

1y ago49:34

49:34

This episode explores the journey of Marketa Bosakova, a 5/1 manifesting generator, who did a remarkable 180-degree turn and bravely decided to convert her lifelong hobby and passion into a thriving new business venture. Marketa faced various challenges in her life, but instead of letting them bring her down, she used them as fuel for her entrepren…

1
Sue Thexton - Managing Director at One File - Part 2 41:35

1y ago41:35

41:35

In this brand-new episode of The Canny Conversations Podcast, which is Series 5 Episode 30, We have the second half of Safaraz Ali’s conversation with Sue Thexton the Managing Director and EVP of One File, one of the technology leaders within the education sector. Their discussion continues, this week, looking at various facets of technology career…

1
Sue Thexton - Managing Director at One File - Part 1 46:34

1y ago46:34

46:34

In this brand-new episode of The Canny Conversations Podcast, Safaraz is in conversation with Sue Thexton, the Managing Director and EVP of One File, one of the technology leaders within the education sector. In the first half of their talk (you’ll be able to hear the second half next week), Sue discusses One File's history and growth, as well as t…

1
Jill Whittaker - The Executive Chair at HIT Training Ltd Part 2 44:11

1y ago44:11

44:11

This week we will be re-joining Safaraz,s conversation with Jill Wittaker The executive Chair of HIT Training Ltd. Jill shares her journey and wisdom, emphasizing the importance of listening, continuous learning, and surrounding oneself with talented individuals. She reflects on her organization's achievements, including being recognized as one of …

1
21. How to Dial up your Magnetism by HD Type 23:56

1y ago23:56

23:56

Hello, beautiful souls! Welcome back to Magnetic By Design: A Human Design Podcast. Have you ever been drawn to someone but you’re not sure why? It’s likely it’s their energy and inherent magnetism that has attracted you to them. So in this episode I explore the very title of this podcast by sharing my unique insights about how to be magnetic by de…

1
Jill Whittaker OBE - The Executive Chair at HIT Training Ltd Part 1 38:23

1y ago38:23

38:23

In this episode, Safaraz is in conversation with Jill Whittaker OBE from HIT Training, a long-standing advocate for the apprenticeship sector. In the first half of their two-part conversation, Jill shares her journey from growing up in the Midlands to receiving an OBE for her work in apprenticeships. The conversation delves into the importance of l…

1
Sharon Blyfield OBE - Head of Early Careers Coca-Cola Europacific Partners Limited - Part 2 34:13

1y ago34:13

34:13

In the second half of their fascinating chat, Safaraz talks to Sharon about her involvement in Scottish apprenticeships and her role in chairing a commission on race in apprenticeships. They discuss the challenges faced by multicultural backgrounds in undertaking apprenticeships and the importance of industry partnerships. Sharon emphasizes the nee…

Podcasts Worth a Listen

Canny Conversations Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen