Equal Inspired

We are joined by the fabulous "Queen of Workshops", Engineering Manager, Luisa Escalona.Luisa is a Software Engineer and certified Encouragement Consultant, Positive Discipline Parent Educator, and Empowering People in the Workplace facilitator. She works as an Engineering Manager for a SaaS company based in Malmö, Sweden, where she blends technical expertise with a passion for empowering people. Since 2019, Luisa has delivered engaging talks and hands-on workshops that inspire teams and individuals to reach their full potential. In this chat, gain powerful insights into:• How a Positive Discipline Educator Training transformed Luisa's approach to facilitation• The secrets to creating meaningful “aha” moments that stick in workshops• How to protect focus time and set boundaries without conflict• The 3 non-negotiables for truly effective retrospectives• Tips for settling into a new country and building communityFollow Luisa's Important Work:Learn more about Luisa’s work: https://www.luisaescalona.com/Connect on LinkedIn for workshops, retrospectives, and facilitation insights: https://www.linkedin.com/in/luisaescalona/

The incredible Anne Gretland joins us.Anne's tech journey started at Microsoft in 1998. Fuelled by a passion for people-focused and inclusive leadership. Rooted in empathy and a belief in technology as a tool of empowerment.Today, she is the CEO at Fotoware and under her leadership, Fotoware has:- Achieved close to 40% gender balance. - Built a multinational workforce- Quadrupled annual revenue. All while being recognised multiple times as one of Norway’s and Europe’s Best Workplaces by Great Place to Work!In this episode, learn Anne's pearls of wisdom on:- The real hiring bias most companies overlook- Practical ways to make job ads more inclusive- Hiring for potential vs. experience- How to create idea-safe cultures without ego or fear- Overcoming imposter syndrome and self-doubt- Turning mistakes into powerful learning experiences- Learning to say “NO” without guilt or over-explainingGain a deep insight into Anne’s personal journey. The highs, the lows, co-founding ODA Nettverk 20 years ago, when only 16% of IT professionals in Norway were women, and so much more.This is one you do not want to miss, a masterclass in inclusive leadership 💜

The fabulous Deekshita Amaravadi joins us for a heartfelt discussion exploring the intersection of leadership, healing, and human connection. Bridging lessons from Buddhism with the realities of modern leadershipWe dive into:- Why asking for help is a superpower, not a weakness- How to balance trust and accountability in leadership- The role of intention and intuition in decision-making- How to give radical candor feedback without losing empathy- The key to overcoming people-pleasing and setting healthy boundaries- How to build psychological safety and high-performing teamsIf you want to let go of overthinking, trust your intuition, and create spaces where authenticity and empathy drive performance, this is the episode for you!

The incredible Viveka Rydell-Anderson joins us. A visionary leader with over two decades of experience in healthcare, law, and business. Who thrives at the intersection of strategy, technology, and innovation. Viveka is on a mission:To serve the underserved.To close the healthcare access gap.To reimagine what’s possible and who gets to benefit from it.In this deeply honest and powerful episode, she shares the mindset, moments, and mission driving her work to transform care for the communities who need it most.We dive into:- Biggest Challenges Shaking Up Healthcare- The Role Of AI In Accelerating Medical Breakthroughs- The Art Of Saying No & Managing Time As A Leader- Championing Mental Health As A Leadership Priority- Lessons In Career Reinvention And Gaining Tech Skills Later In Life- Building Resilient Teams Through Psychological Safety- Real Talk on Funding Gaps in FemTech- The 3 Must-Know Essentials Before Female Founders Scale Their Business- Crucial Questions To Ask Investors Before Signing Any Funding DealA must-listen episode if you are passionate about equity, innovation, and what it really takes to drive meaningful change in healthcare.

The incredible Emma Smedslund, Engineering Manager, Spiritual Wellbeing Coach, Certified Agile Leader joins us!

For a heartfelt chat packed with transformative insights to help you reconnect with your purpose, manage burnout, and take your career and life to the next level.

Gain practical strategies for:

- Leading with authenticity and intention
- Combating your inner critic to grow confidence
- Managing stress and burnout in high-pressure roles
- Building self-awareness through mindfulness and rest
- Navigating career transitions with clarity and self-compassion

This conversation offers the guidance you need to reclaim your power, regulate your nervous system, and lead with intention.