In this episode of The SAFE Leader Podcast, Mark McBride-Wright is joined by engineer, author and science communicator Dr Lucy Rogers for a conversation about curiosity, creativity and the many unexpected paths an engineering career can take. Lucy reflects on her early fascination with making things, the teachers and experiences that helped shape her journey, and how her career evolved from mechanical engineering and industrial research into storytelling, public engagement and writing.

They also explore the power of communication in engineering, the importance of making technical ideas accessible, and why fun and professionalism do belong together. Lucy shares insights from her latest book, her global travels researching the science of the sky, and her ambitious work on engineering for extreme environments, from Antarctica to space.

In this episode of The SAFE Leader Podcast, Mark McBride-Wright is joined by Michael Bach, internationally recognised inclusion, diversity, equity and accessibility expert, author and speaker. Michael reflects on his unconventional journey from child actor to global DEIA leader, sharing how his early work in activism, his time at KPMG, and his leadership of the Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion shaped his approach to creating meaningful change. Together, Mark and Michael explore what it really takes to move beyond compliance and towards cultures where people feel seen, valued and able to thrive.

The conversation also dives into the growing backlash against DEI, why change often moves more slowly than people hope, and how leaders can avoid performative action in favour of work that genuinely sticks. Michael speaks candidly about visibility, identity, resilience and the importance of making inclusion practical, honest and human.

In this episode of The SAFE Leader podcast, Mark McBride-Wright sits down with Anna Burgan for a conversation about leadership, workplace culture, and what really happens when people are forced to choose between success and wellbeing. Anna shares her personal journey through career change, motherhood, and the realities of navigating systems that often say the right things about inclusion but fail to support people when it matters most.

Together, Mark and Anna explore what it means to lead with humanity, challenge outdated workplace mindsets, and create environments where people can thrive both professionally and personally. This is an honest and thought-provoking episode about culture, bias, parenthood, and the responsibility leaders have to shape workplaces that truly work for everyone.