The Culture Colonel

What happens when you realise that success, as it’s traditionally defined, isn’t serving you?In this episode, Tabitha Smith-Lawrence, Defence Psychologist & Endometriosis Champion, shares how she redefined success on her own terms; choosing purpose, authenticity, and well-being over performance-driven burnout. In a bold act of self-reflection, she stepped away from the expectations placed upon her and into a version of leadership rooted in honesty and humanity.In this episode of The Culture Colonel, Tabitha also opens up about living with endometriosis, an often misunderstood and under-diagnosed condition that affects 1 in 10 women. She describes the emotional toll of delayed diagnosis, the difficulty of managing an invisible illness in a high-pressure environment, and the stigma that still surrounds women’s health in the workplace.This conversation is both practical and powerful. Tabitha offers clear guidance for line managers, teams, and leaders on how to better support colleagues navigating chronic health conditions. She challenges us to reconsider how we define strength - and advocates for a workplace culture where listening, flexibility, and compassion are considered core leadership qualities.We would love to hear your leadership tips that create room for compassion. Email us at TheCultureColonel@bfbs.comFollow Lindsay: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lindsay-macduff Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lindsaymacduff/ BFBS Creative is an award-winning, non-profit, creative agency. We specialise in helping the Armed Forces, Defence and government tell their story. If you want to learn more about us – visit our website: https://creative.bfbs.com/ 

Forty-six days. Over 3,000 miles. One ocean. Four extraordinary women.In this episode, Lindsay MacDuff, the Culture Colonel, sits down with the incredible Force Atlantic team - the first all-female British Army team to row across the Atlantic Ocean. Captain Imogen ‘Imy‘ O'Brien, Captain Sheridan Lucas MBE, Major Rebecca Glover and Corporal Emma Gibb share the raw, honest story of their record-breaking journey from La Gomera in the Canary Islands to Antigua in the Caribbean... 3,000 miles of relentless rowing, completed in 46 days and 55 minutes.With no previous rowing experience for some of the crew, and only two hours of rest at a time, the women navigated storms, sleep deprivation, and the emotional toll of the Atlantic, all with grit, humour, and unshakeable trust in each other. They talk about the gruelling selection process, the terrifying night shifts, the power of music, and the unexpected moments of joy that got them through.But this wasn’t just about crossing an ocean. It was about showing what’s possible when women work together, support each other, and push through the limits of what they thought they could do. Along the way, they championed a cause close to their hearts: The Girls’ Network, whose mission to help girls believe in themselves felt deeply aligned with their own.This is a story of resilience, sisterhood, and believing you belong - on boats, in leadership, and far beyond.You can learn more about The Girls' Network here.And watch some of the highlights from the row itself here.What did you take away from this episode? Email us at TheCultureColonel@bfbs.comFollow Lindsay: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lindsay-macduffInstagram: www.instagram.com/lindsaymacduffBFBS Creative is an award-winning, non-profit, creative agency.We specialise in helping the Armed Forces, Defence and government tell their story. If you want to learn more about us – visit our website: https://creative.bfbs.com/

Content Warning: This episode contains discussion of homophobia and discrimination, which some may find offensive. Listener discretion is advised.For 38 years, Dougie Morgan served in the British Army; respected on operations, but haunted by a secret he couldn’t share. Behind the discipline and duty was a man forced to hide his identity in an institution where being gay once meant risking everything.In this powerful and deeply personal episode, Lindsay MacDuff, the Culture Colonel, speaks with Dougie about life under the military’s pre-2000 ban on homosexuality. Dougie opens up about the toll of living a double life, the behavioural challenges that masked his inner turmoil, and the long journey toward self-acceptance. He reflects on the emotional cost of secrecy, the impact of systemic discrimination, and the liberation - albeit late - that came with being honest about who he is.Until recently (April 2025), through his work with Fighting With Pride, Dougie supported other LGBTQ+ veterans and helped build a more inclusive Armed Forces. His story is a reminder that authenticity is a human right, and that healing is possible, even after decades of silence.A brave, compassionate conversation about identity, belonging, and the ongoing work to ensure that no one in uniform has to hide who they are.We know there are more stories to be told, like Dougie's. If you're willing to share - email us at TheCultureColonel@bfbs.comFind out more about Fighting with Pride by visiting https://www.fightingwithpride.org.uk/And you can follow Dougie on Linked in: https://www.linkedin.com/in/dougie-morgan-4803a6331/?originalSubdomain=ukFollow the Culture Colonel himself, Lindsay on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lindsay-macduff and on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lindsaymacduff/BFBS Creative is an award-winning, non-profit, creative agency. We specialise in helping the Armed Forces, Defence and government tell their story. If you want to learn more about us – visit our website: https://creative.bfbs.com/ 

Trigger Warning - This episode contains discussion of childhood abuse, neglect, and trauma. Please take care while listening, or consider skipping this episode. If you're affected by the themes and need support, resources are available on our website.For years, Wing Commander Jacqui Wilkinson kept her past hidden - masking a childhood marked by abuse, neglect, and trauma behind the uniform of a successful Royal Air Force officer. But today, she’s using that painful history as a force for good.In this moving episode of The Culture Colonel, Jacqui shares her powerful journey from survival to strength, and how confronting her trauma has not only transformed her own life, but helped shape a new kind of leadership in the Armed Forces.Jacqui opens up about the turning point that came when she began therapy, and how reclaiming her story became the start of true healing. She speaks candidly about the years she spent carrying her experiences alone, and how that silence began to shift once she chose vulnerability over shame.Now a champion for mental health and wellbeing within Defence, Jacqui reflects on how her past has made her a more empathetic, authentic, and human leader. She discusses the impact of her book Turning the Tables on Trauma, the response from within the military, and her work with the Defence Mental Health and Wellbeing Network.This is a courageous conversation about breaking the cycle, finding strength in truth, and turning personal pain into lasting legacy.We’d love to hear your thoughts on this conversation. Email us at TheCultureColonel@bfbs.comFollow Jacqui on Instagram, Facebook or LinkedIn. Her book, Turning the Tables on Trauma is available here. BFBS Creative is an award-winning, non-profit, creative agency, specialising in helping the Armed Forces, Defence and government tell their story. Learn more about us - visit our website.

Sara Catterall, Strategic Command Warrant Officer, brings passion, purpose, and people-first thinking to the heart of Defence. With a leadership style rooted in inclusion, curiosity, and psychological safety, Sara is reshaping what it means to lead in today’s military landscape.In this episode, Lindsay MacDuff, the Culture Colonel, speaks with Sara about what it takes to build a culture where individuals can thrive, and teams can think critically, challenge norms, and grow together. Sara shares her belief in the power of embracing failure, managing imposter syndrome, fostering courageous conversations, and celebrating difference to unlock both personal potential and operational effectiveness.From leading initiatives like the Women in Strategic Command forum to mentoring the next generation of Defence leaders, Sara is committed to creating space for every voice to be heard as she reflects on her own journey, and the importance of building a work environment that is not only effective but also joyful and human.This episode is a thoughtful, energising conversation on purposeful leadership, inclusion in action, and shaping the culture of tomorrow’s Defence.What did you take away from this episode? Email us at TheCultureColonel@bfbs.comLearn more about Strategic Command via instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ukstrategiccommand/Follow Lindsay: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lindsay-macduff Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lindsaymacduff/ BFBS Creative is an award-winning, non-profit, creative agency. We specialise in helping the Armed Forces, Defence and government tell their story. If you want to learn more about us – visit our website:https://creative.bfbs.com/ 

Get Curious Before You Get Critical – with Siobhán SheridanLeaving school at 15, Siobhán Sheridan CBE has forged a remarkable career through grit, learning, and deep curiosity. Now Chief People Officer at the Financial Conduct Authority, she brings decades of experience across the financial sector, Civil Service, and Defence, specialising in organisational and cultural change.In this episode, Lindsay MacDuff, the Culture Colonel, sits down with Siobhán for an inspiring and wide-ranging conversation about leading with empathy, changing behaviours in male-dominated environments, and how culture is shaped not by words, but by actions. Siobhán shares her guiding principle - “get curious before you get critical” - and reflects on how curiosity can help transform organisations and people alike.Together, they explore topics like mental fitness, rest, perimenopause, wellbeing, confidence, and the role creativity plays in staying grounded - whether through poetry or knitting. Siobhán’s insights remind us that leadership is as much about showing up authentically as it is about setting strategy.We’d love to hear your thoughts at TheCultureColonel@bfbs.comThank you for listening and take care until next time!Quotations:“In a conversation does somebody want to be heard, held or helped.” – Charles Duhigg“Statistics are human beings with the tears wiped dry.” – Anon“The deepest longing of the human soul is to be seen.” – John O’DonohueBook Referenced:May Contain Lies by Alex EdmansFollow Siobhan:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/siobhan-sheridan-cbe-8342101/Follow Lindsay: LinkedIn:  linkedin.com/in/lindsay-macduff Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lindsaymacduff/ BFBS Creative is an award-winning, non-profit, creative agency. We specialise in helping the Armed Forces, Defence and government tell their story. If you want to learn more about us – visit our website: https://creative.bfbs.com/ Email The Culture Colonel at: TheCultureColonel@bfbs.com  

⚠️️ Trigger Warning ⚠️️ This episode contains discussion of suicide. If you're affected by the themes and need support - resources are listed below or available on our website.After a 40-year career in the British Army, Baz Melia MBE has taken on one of the most urgent and emotionally complex missions of his life: tackling veteran suicide.Now leading The Always a Rifleman Programme (AARP), Baz combines military discipline with trauma-informed, community-based support to confront the realities of suicide among former service personnel.In this episode, Lindsay MacDuff, the Culture Colonel, sits down with Baz for an unflinching, compassionate conversation about the mental health crisis facing veterans. Together, they explore the deep-rooted challenges of transitioning to civilian life, the silent weight of male loneliness, and the importance of belonging and identity after military service.Baz shares personal stories that drive his work, including the tragic loss of a close friend, and reflects on the emotional toll of his role. He also introduces the innovative strategies behind AARP, and why early intervention, peer support and cultural understanding are key to saving lives.This episode is a powerful reminder that leadership doesn’t end with rank - and that compassion, connection and action are essential tools in the battle many veterans face after service.If you or someone you know is a veteran in crisis, please know that help is available. You can access resources via our website at www.bfbs.com/audience-support.Below are some UK-based resources - the helplines included are available to call (or text) 24/7, 365 days a year.Always a Rifleman Programme (AARP)📞 0800 470 0941Combat Stress📞 0800 138 1619📱 07537 173683Samaritans Veterans Helpline📞 0808 175 3075Op COURAGEYou can follow Baz Melia on LinkedIn - and follow our host, Lindsay, on LinkedIn & InstagramWe’d love to hear your thoughts on this conversation. Email us at TheCultureColonel@bfbs.comBFBS Creative is an award-winning, non-profit, creative agency, specialising in helping the Armed Forces, Defence and government tell their story. Learn more about us - visit our website.

As the first non-military Chief of Defence Intelligence, Adrian Bird is bringing a fresh perspective to one of the UK’s most high-stakes organisations. Appointed in September 2022, he draws on decades of experience in the intelligence community, including his time as Director-General at GCHQ.  At the heart of his leadership? A commitment to fostering collaboration, valuing diversity, and creating a culture of psychological safety. In this episode, Adrian joins Lindsay MacDuff to talk about leadership, managing energy over time, and the importance of recognition and gratitude. He reflects on the challenges of maintaining operational effectiveness, the power of trust in intelligence work, and why leadership is never one-size-fits-all. With courage, candour, creativity, and community as his guiding principles, Adrian shares a fascinating take on what it means to lead in an unpredictable world. And in a lighter moment, he reveals his admiration for Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure, which also happens to be a bit of a driving force - because, as the film’s mantra goes, “Be excellent to each other.” We’d love to hear your thoughts at TheCultureColonel@bfbs.com  Thank you for listening and take care until next time!  Quotations: “Be excellent to each other.” (Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure) “Manage your energy, not your time.” (Tony Schwartz and Jim Loehr) "Power is a relationship, not a possession.” (Professor Emeritus Keith Grint) Follow Lindsay: LinkedIn:   linkedin.com/in/lindsay-macduff Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lindsaymacduff/  BFBS Creative is an award-winning, non-profit, creative agency. We specialise in helping the Armed Forces, Defence and government tell their story. If you want to learn more about us – visit our website: https://creative.bfbs.com/ Please feel free to email The Culture Colonel at:  TheCultureColonel@bfbs.com  

From the Situation Room to the boardroom, Caitlin Hayden’s career has been nothing short of remarkable. With a background that spans the U.S. Department of State, the National Security Council under President Obama, and now a senior leadership role at BAE Systems, Caitlin brings a wealth of experience in public affairs, international relations, and strategic communications.In this episode, Lindsay MacDuff, the Culture Colonel, speaks with Caitlin about the values and lessons that have guided her through a high-stakes career in government and defence. They discuss the power of kindness in leadership, why resilience and self-awareness matter more than ever, and how Caitlin has learned to balance mission-focus with personal growth.Caitlin reflects on her time advising the President, her experiences in conflict zones like Afghanistan, and how she’s continuing to shape culture and communication in the private sector. She also shares honest insights into the challenge of work-life balance, the importance of mentorship, and why listening is one of the most underrated leadership tools.This conversation is a thoughtful look at what it means to lead with both strength and compassion—and how staying grounded in your values can drive meaningful change, even in the most complex environments.We’d love to hear your thoughts at TheCultureColonel@bfbs.com Thank you for listening and take care until next time! Follow Caitlin on LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/caitlinhayden/ Follow Lindsay: LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/lindsay-macduff Instagram: instagram.com/lindsaymacduff/BFBS Creative is an award-winning, non-profit, creative agency. We specialise in helping the Armed Forces, Defence and government tell their story. If you want to learn more about us – visit our website: www.creative.bfbs.com