Today we’re joined by Joanne Collins, former military personnel, woman in technology, and born leader.

Having grown up in a military family, Joanne followed suit and worked as both Military Police and Telecommunications Officer during her time in the forces. Looking back, Joanne explains that on graduation from Airborne School, she was one of just five women, compared to 400 men. She credits this part of her life for teaching her resilience, how to think on her feet, and the importance of teamwork.

Speaking of the challenges she’s faced along the way, and the mind set instilled within her, Joanne touches on the importance of feeling the fear and doing it anyway. Her refreshing take on failure, and the idea that it really isn’t something to be afraid of, is a key part of the success she’s achieved throughout her life.

Becoming a single mother when her children were ages five and seven, Joanne was running a national support desk while trying to move it to a 24/7 model. While touching on the support she cobbled together from family, friends and social groups, Joanne explains the importance of diversity of thought within organisations, and the challenges around outdated systems that prevent this happening.

Joanne covers powerful topics with passion and candour. This episode brings the importance of diversity, inclusion and thought leadership to the forefront of discussion, providing us with lessons we can learn from and build upon.