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Episode Description

In this episode, Julia Middleton is joined by Allyson Nicholson, who explores the delicate balance between agility and unwavering determination in leadership.

Through a rich discussion on adaptability and resilience, Allyson shares how great leaders must pivot when necessary while staying committed to their core mission. She breaks down the art of knowing when to push forward with persistence and when to adjust course to navigate challenges effectively.

Allyson challenges conventional leadership wisdom, emphasizing that true strength lies in striking the right balance—being flexible without losing focus, and determined without becoming rigid.

A compelling conversation that redefines perseverance and adaptability, offering valuable insights for leaders striving to make an impact in an ever-evolving world.

About the Guests

Allyson Nicholson

Allyson Nicholson is an accomplished executive leader with extensive experience in financial services, specializing in risk management and operational strategy. With a career spanning decades, she has held leadership roles at major financial institutions, guiding teams through complex challenges with a balance of strategic foresight and determined execution. Passionate about fostering innovation and resilience, Allyson is dedicated to mentoring future leaders and championing inclusive leadership practices.

About the Host

Julia Middleton

Julia Middleton is the host of the Women Emerging podcast and a best-selling author of “If that’s leading, I’m in” as well as two previous books: “Leading beyond Authority” and “Cultural Intelligence”. She is deeply committed to helping people from all backgrounds to find their own approach to leading.

In 2020, Julia launched Women Emerging and in 2022 she lead an expedition of 24 women to find ‘an approach to leading that resonates with women’. She now leads expeditions with women all over the world based on 4Es methodology, discovered in the first expedition.

Prior to that, Julia was founder and, for over thirty years, Chief Executive of Common Purpose, which grew to become one of the biggest leadership development organisations in the world.
Julia is also an Ambassador for the Aurora Prize based in Armenia, on the boards of Alfanar Venture Philanthropy in the Arab World and Equality Now, which operates globally, and on the Advisory Councils of Fundacao Dom Cabral in Brazil and Synapse in Pakistan.

Born in London and brought up in New York, Julia was educated at French Lycées and graduated from the London School of Economics. She is married, with five children and lots of grandchildren.