Women Lead

The Digital Distillery

Join Nadia Koski, a digital media industry leader and creator, in authentic and empowering - also occasionally hilarious - conversations on Women Lead.
Women Lead is a podcast dedicated to the important leadership topics, challenges, and achievements that professionals, particularly women, experience in the workplace. Through in-depth discussions with guests, Nadia explores what it takes to build your career, lead with empathy, and help the next generation of young leaders rise to take the reins in their industries.
Based in Florence Italy, Nadia Koski brings more than sixteen years of experience as a team leader and global content director at an international digital media and ad tech organization, as well as a background in fashion and artist management, publishing, and digital startups. The podcast explores unique insights from all voices in the global media space, in a refreshing format meant to inform, inspire, and make you laugh.

read less
WirtschaftWirtschaft

Folgen

Aligning Passion and Purpose Strategy in High Performance Sports with Mya Doelling
Heute
Aligning Passion and Purpose Strategy in High Performance Sports with Mya Doelling
In this episode of the Women Lead podcast, host Nadia Koski speaks with Mya Doelling, Senior Partnership Manager, Purpose Partnerships Lead at the International Olympic Committee (IOC). Maya shares her inspiring journey from a young athlete diagnosed with leukemia to her current role at the IOC, where she leads purpose-driven partnerships. The conversation explores the power of sports, the importance of mentorship, and how Maya aligns her personal and professional passions. They discuss the challenges of navigating leadership as a woman in the sports industry and the significant initiatives being implemented at the IOC, including gender parity and support for refugee athletes at the Paris 2024 Olympics.In this conversation, Mya and Nadia discuss the evolving landscape of sports, focusing on inclusivity, empowerment, and the challenges faced by women, particularly women of color, in leadership roles. They explore the importance of allyship, the balance between personal and professional life, and the vision for a purpose-driven future in sports. The dialogue emphasizes the need for mental health discussions, representation, and the impact of supportive partnerships in achieving gender parity and diversity in sports.Links and recs:Connect with Mya on LinkedInPodcast recs:Esther Perel’s podcast “Where Should We Begin”“Pivot” with Scott Galloway and Kara SwisherFollow the International Olympic Committee across social media:Twitter – @iocmediaLinkedIn – @International Olympic Committee – IOCInstagram –@iocmediaYouTube – @IOC MediaProduced and Hosted by Nadia KoskiEngineered by Phil McDowellProject Lead Dennis KirschnerYou can contact the show at womenleadpodcast@the-digital-distillery.comor go to the website.Find us on LinkedIn, Facebook & Instagram
Navigating Authenticity and Leading Gen Z with Daniela Grilnberger
22-01-2025
Navigating Authenticity and Leading Gen Z with Daniela Grilnberger
In this episode of Women Lead, host Nadia Koski interviews Daniela Grilnberger, a prominent young leader in the German media landscape. They discuss her journey into media and advertising, the importance of authenticity in the workplace, and the challenges women face in balancing their professional and personal lives. Daniela emphasizes the need for self-worth beyond work achievements and the significance of setting healthy boundaries to prevent burnout. The conversation also touches on the generational shift in attitudes towards work, particularly with Gen Z, who prioritize mental health and healthy work-life balance.In this conversation, Daniela discusses the necessity of understanding the motivation behind tasks, particularly for Gen Z employees. She explains how leaders can empower their teams with responsibility and create a supportive work environment that prioritizes mental health. Daniela’s personal journey towards mindfulness and balance highlights the significance of yoga in her life. The discussion also touches on the challenges faced by women in media and the importance of open communication within teams, especially in a post-COVID world.Connect with Daniela on LinkedInBook rec: “The Power of Now” by  Eckhart TolleProduced and Hosted by Nadia KoskiEngineered by Phil McDowellProject Lead Dennis KirschnerYou can contact the show at womenleadpodcast@the-digital-distillery.comor go to the website.Find us on LinkedIn, Facebook & Instagram
Building Resilient and Diverse Teams in Programmatic Advertising with Jacqueline Boakye
11-12-2024
Building Resilient and Diverse Teams in Programmatic Advertising with Jacqueline Boakye
In this episode of Women Lead, host Nadia Koski sits down with Jacqueline Boayke, Vice President Customer Success, EMEA at PubMatic, who shares her extensive career journey from marketing to programmatic advertising, highlighting the importance of authenticity and diversity in leadership roles. She discusses the challenges she faced as a black woman in a leadership position and emphasizes the significance of open communication and trust within teams.Jackie also shares her make-or-break moment of launching Spotify in the UK and how she approached this challenge. She breaks down her approach to feedback and performance reviews, as well as her hiring practices that prioritize cultural fit and adaptability. In this conversation, you will learn more about her insights on team dynamics, the importance of self-awareness, the challenges of balancing parenthood with career growth, and the necessity of flexibility in the workplace. She opens up about how becoming a parent has shaped her leadership style, emphasizing the value of authentic communication and resilience in overcoming challenges and finding solutions. The discussion highlights the significance of nurturing relationships within teams and the transferable skills gained from parenting that enhance leadership capabilities.Recs:Netflix series “The Starting Five”Connect with Jacqueline on LinkedInProduced and Hosted by Nadia KoskiEngineered by Phil McDowellProject Lead Dennis KirschnerYou can contact the show at womenleadpodcast@the-digital-distillery.comor go to the website.Find us on LinkedIn, Facebook & Instagram
Women Lead LIVE from The Digital Distillery Vienna: Disruptive Edition - Part 1
14-11-2024
Women Lead LIVE from The Digital Distillery Vienna: Disruptive Edition - Part 1
In this special episode of Women Lead, recorded live at The Digital Distillery Vienna: Disruptive Edition, host Nadia Koski hops on the mic with three incredible leaders: Nicola Dietrich, CSO at COPE Content Performance Group; Carina Kaiser, COO of SlopeLift; and Viki Zischka, Marketing and Retail Media Expert at BILLA.The event took place at the historic Ottakringer Brewery, the atmosphere was electric, with panel discussions and inspiring conversations that reflected the "disruptive" theme of the event. The industrial ambiance and vibrant energy set the perfect backdrop for powerful conversations with female leaders in media and marketing.From unique career paths to powerful leadership insights, this episode dives into the journeys of these trailblazing women, exploring their perspectives on growth, resilience, and the courage to pivot. Nadia shares her love for Vienna, which has become a city close to her heart, and we get a glimpse into what made this live event so memorable.Featured Interviews:Nicola Dietrich, CSO at COPE Content Performance GroupNicola shares how her diverse career experiences led her into media, emphasizing the importance of curiosity and resilience. She discusses the value of failing fast, learning from it, and pivoting to try new strategies.Carina Kaiser, COO at SlopeLiftCarina’s confidence and commitment to growth are palpable as she talks about expanding SlopeLift into new markets. Her advice? Curiosity and hard work go hand in hand to drive both personal and business success.Viki Zischka, Marketing & Retail Media Expert at ReweViki offers valuable insights into team building, motivation, and the importance of creating an inspiring work environment. Her tips for keeping her team engaged and productive are rooted in collaboration and continuous learning.Links and recs:Connect with Nicola Dietrich on LinkedInConnect with Carina Kaiser on LinkedInConnect with Viki Zischka on LinkedInProduced and Hosted by Nadia KoskiEngineered by Phil McDowellProject Lead Dennis KirschnerYou can contact the show at womenleadpodcast@the-digital-distillery.comor go to the website.Find us on LinkedIn, Facebook & Instagram
Inside Amazon’s Brand Innovation Lab: Kate Mccagg on Vision, Creativity, and the Power of Customer Obsession
30-10-2024
Inside Amazon’s Brand Innovation Lab: Kate Mccagg on Vision, Creativity, and the Power of Customer Obsession
Women Lead host Nadia Koski sits down with Kate McCagg, Head of Brand Innovation Lab at Amazon, who shares her inspiring journey from copywriter and creative director in New York City, to a global innovation leader based in London. Kate talks about the unique challenges and rewards of her role, emphasizing Amazon’s distinctive interview process and diverse company culture, which focuses on substance over style and seeks problem solvers who embody Amazon’s customer-centric ethos. Her career story offers valuable insights into the evolving landscape of digital advertising, creativity, and leadership in a fast-paced creative world.Kate also discusses the importance of balancing a clear vision with giving her team the creative freedom to explore solutions. Drawing on Amazon’s principle of being “stubborn on vision, flexible on details,” she highlights how empathy, cultural awareness, and measurable goals are essential to effective creative leadership. Additionally, Kate reflects on how her experience as a parent has influenced her leadership style, fostering a patient, empathetic approach that prioritizes personal growth alongside professional success.Listeners will gain perspective on the cultural dynamics of managing a global team, Amazon’s “customer obsession” philosophy, and how modern content and language evolution inspire Kate’s work. Join us for this compelling conversation with Kate McCagg, where she shares her experiences and wisdom on upholding vision and creating impactful campaigns at one of the world’s leading companies.Links and RecsConnect with Kate on LinkedInNetflix hit series to check out: Nobody Wants ThisBook: “1984” by George OrwellProduced and Hosted by Nadia KoskiEngineered by Phil McDowellProject Lead Dennis KirschnerYou can contact the show at womenleadpodcast@the-digital-distillery.comor go to the website.Find us on LinkedIn, Facebook & Instagram
Confidence, Leadership, and Giving Back with Hannah Marshall at The Digital Distillery London
16-10-2024
Confidence, Leadership, and Giving Back with Hannah Marshall at The Digital Distillery London
In the latest episode of Women Lead, host Nadia Koski brings us a vibrant, live conversation recorded at The Digital Distillery London Edition, held at the iconic Hippodrome Casino. Nadia is joined by Hannah Marshall, Head of Performance Activation at IPG, who shares her journey through the world of ad tech, leadership, and mentorship. From the historic backdrop of a venue that has seen legendary performances by the likes of Frank Sinatra and Judy Garland, this episode captures the energy and inspiration of a live interview.Hannah discusses her career trajectory, from agency roles to leading performance activation at one of the most innovative media agencies. One of the standout moments of their conversation is Hannah's approach to decision-making, where she combines instinct with thorough research, a method that has guided her success. She also tackles the challenges many women face in male-dominated industries, offering insights on how to overcome imposter syndrome and the importance of speaking up with confidence in professional settings.Additionally, Hannah shares her passion for giving back, mentoring young talent both within her company and through volunteer work. The episode also delves into her involvement in Media Fight Night, a charity boxing event where media professionals step into the ring for a good cause. Packed with practical advice and heartfelt stories, this episode is sure to inspire anyone looking to navigate leadership, boost confidence, or support the next generation of industry talent.Learn more about Media Fight NightConnect with Hannah on LinkedInProduced and Hosted by Nadia KoskiEngineered by Phil McDowellProject Lead Dennis KirschnerYou can contact the show at womenleadpodcast@the-digital-distillery.comor go to the website.Find us on LinkedIn, Facebook & Instagram
Fostering Connection and Transformation in CPG & Retail Marketing with Sarah Leinberger
18-09-2024
Fostering Connection and Transformation in CPG & Retail Marketing with Sarah Leinberger
In this episode of Women Lead, Nadia Koski sits down with Sarah Leinberger, Brand Experience Leader at General Mills, to explore her inspiring career journey and the leadership strategies that have guided her path. Sarah shares how her varied experiences in brand management, merchandising, and change work have shaped her unique approach to leading teams and driving success in the ever-evolving retail and CPG industry.Throughout the conversation, Sarah emphasizes the importance of really understanding what makes people tick and building connections. She discusses how creating a shared understanding and buy-in within teams is crucial for navigating changes, setting shared goals, and celebrating milestones. Sarah also shares her own personal experience with working with a coach to identifying her strengths and align her career path.Tune in to hear Sarah's insights on creating successful omnichannel experiences, and building meaningful workplace relationships that put authenticity and empathy first and foremost. Plus, learn about her approach to recognizing team achievements, including a unique case study method to showcase success and boost engagement.Connect with Sarah on LinkedInProduced and Hosted by Nadia KoskiEngineered by Phil McDowellProject Lead Dennis KirschnerYou can contact the show at womenleadpodcast@the-digital-distillery.comor go to the website.Find us on LinkedIn, Facebook & Instagram
People-First Leadership and Flexible Working with Victoria Usher
04-09-2024
People-First Leadership and Flexible Working with Victoria Usher
In this first episode of Season 3 of the Women Lead podcast, Victoria Usher, the CEO and founder of GingerMay, shares her inspiring journey from the corporate world to establishing her own successful business. Victoria opens up about the motivations behind her bold decision to start GingerMay and the challenges she faced as a working parent. She highlights the importance of flexible working arrangements, especially in light of recent changes in UK legislation, and how these changes are making it easier for businesses to support their employees.She delves into the importance of creating a supportive and open work culture at GingerMay. She passionately speaks about the need for employees to feel comfortable voicing their concerns and the crucial role that senior managers play in providing the necessary support. Victoria also sheds light on the issue of burnout in the fast-paced PR and advertising industry, sharing her thoughts on setting boundaries, recognizing when normal job stress turns into anxiety, and how GingerMay's people-first approach has been key to their high retention rate.As the conversation unfolds, Victoria touches on the challenges and rewards of managing intergenerational teams, particularly the unique dynamics of working with Gen Z employees. She also shares Ginger May’s dedication to sustainability and its commitment to becoming a certified B Corp, reflecting the company’s broader mission to make a positive impact. Victoria’s insights offer valuable lessons on leadership, workplace culture, and the future of business.Links and recs:Connect with Victoria on LinkedInEuropean Business Review “Know Your Worth: The Challenges of Working Moms”Produced and Hosted by Nadia KoskiEngineered by Phil McDowellProject Lead Dennis KirschnerYou can contact the show at womenleadpodcast@the-digital-distillery.comor go to the website.Find us on LinkedIn, Facebook & Instagram
From Sports to Media: A Transformative Journey Finding Motivation From the Court to the Board Room with Sarah Mooslechner
24-07-2024
From Sports to Media: A Transformative Journey Finding Motivation From the Court to the Board Room with Sarah Mooslechner
Today on Women Lead, Nadia Koski sits down with Sarah Mooslechner, a management board member at T&P𝑚 - Germany, one of the world’s leading full-service creative and media agencies, part of WPP.Sarah shares her journey from a sports background and how that has influenced her career in media and advertising. Her leadership approach balances her competitive nature and experience as a figure skater and coach with a good dose of empathy and compassion. She emphasizes the importance of self-effectiveness and creating a space for her team to thrive. Sarah discusses the significance of allyship in her professional life and the impact of influential figures on her leadership approach. The conversation covers leadership, work-life balance, and following your passion inside and outside the boardroom.They also delve into the importance of teaching leadership, how emotions in the workplace play a significant role, and why creating a space where those feelings are acknowledged and accepted is important.TakeawaysTeaching leadership is crucial, and the lack of investment in leadership training in certain industries can lead to unprepared leaders.Passion and inspiration can come from various sources, and it's essential to pursue what motivates and drives you.Links and recs:Connect with Sarah on LinkedInProduced and Hosted by Nadia KoskiEngineered by Phil McDowellProject Lead Dennis KirschnerYou can contact the show at womenleadpodcast@the-digital-distillery.comor go to the website.Find us on LinkedIn, Facebook & Instagram
Developing Your Own Diverse Leadership Style with Lena Schütze
10-07-2024
Developing Your Own Diverse Leadership Style with Lena Schütze
Women Lead host Nadia Koski sits down with Lena Schütze, Team Lead Client Services and Consulting at Douglas - a beauty company, to discuss her career in digital media and progress in the beauty industry. They unpack some of the positive trends such as body positivity and diversity.Lena also shares her experiences as a new leader, including the challenges of transitioning from a team member to a team lead and the differences between male and female leadership styles. Lena and Nadia dive into the importance of confidence and self-acceptance in leadership, how to recognize and appreciate one's strengths, and the need for diverse leadership styles. Another key point they touch on is the role male allies play in supporting female leaders. Lena emphasizes the importance of communication, knowledge exchange, and adapting leadership styles to your team’s needs.The conversation goes on to cover female representation in top leadership positions and how we can do better in promoting and advocating for women in the workplace. Lena shares her personal successes and failures and emphasizes the importance of asking for help.Let's dive in!Links and recsConnect with Lena on LinkedInBook rec: "Let Me Tell You a Story: Tales along the Road to Happiness" by Jorge BucayCheck out the recording of ShowHeroes’ Women’s Day 2024 Webinar featuring Lena as a panelist. Produced and Hosted by Nadia KoskiEngineered by Phil McDowellProject Lead Dennis KirschnerYou can contact the show at womenleadpodcast@the-digital-distillery.comor go to the website.Find us on LinkedIn, Facebook & Instagram
The Power of Delegation and Trust in Leadership with Christine Fuchs
12-06-2024
The Power of Delegation and Trust in Leadership with Christine Fuchs
In this conversation, Nadia interviews Christine Fuchs, Publishing Director at Horizont, about her journey in the media and publishing industry and the leadership and mentorship initiatives at Horizon. Christine shares how she got into the media industry and her various roles before finding her passion in publishing. She discusses the importance of self-reflection and mentorship in leadership development and how her company is providing comprehensive training and continuous education for all executives. Christine also emphasizes the need for open communication, empathy, and recognizing individual strengths in building a leadership mindset within the team. Christine discusses her experience transitioning into a leadership role later in her career and the challenges and lessons she has learned along the way. She emphasizes the importance of recognizing the need to delegate and trust others, as well as the value of intergenerational teams. Christine also shares her love for reading and the inspiration she finds in books and literature. She encourages individuals to embrace new paths and opportunities at any age.LINKSConnect with Christine on LinkedInRECSVerena's Buchclub - Verena Pausder Verena is one of Germany‘s strongest female leaders in the (tech) start-up world and cofounder of Viktoria Berlin, a professional women’s soccer team.Business podcast "Fast and Curious“ co-hosted by Verena Pausder and Lea-Sophie CramerProduced and Hosted by Nadia KoskiEngineered by Phil McDowellProject Lead Dennis KirschnerYou can contact the show at womenleadpodcast@the-digital-distillery.comor go to the website.Find us on LinkedIn, Facebook & Instagram
Embracing Diversity: Creating an Inclusive Workplace with Randi White
29-05-2024
Embracing Diversity: Creating an Inclusive Workplace with Randi White
In this episode of the Women Lead podcast, host Nadia Koski engages in a dynamic conversation with Randi White, Senior Vice President at Day One Agency. Randi shares her inspiring journey in diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging (DEIB) touching on her multicultural upbringing and how it has shaped her perspective.She emphasizes the importance of celebrating differences and fostering an inclusive work environment, and how that benefits not only employees and her company, but also her wider community. Randi's approach to leadership offers valuable insights into how we can create these spaces where everyone feels they belong combined with effective examples of how diverse and inclusive teams lead to better innovation and employee engagement. She also sheds some light onto some of the creative approaches she has explored with Day One’s Employee Resource Groups (ERGs).Tune in to hear Randi's inspiring journey and gain practical strategies for promoting diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging in your own organization.You’ll learn:How to start employee resource groups (ERGs) to foster a sense of belonging and support for underrepresented groups.How to align DEI efforts with company goals and values to demonstrate importance and impact.Storytelling and creative activities that are effective in fostering understanding and appreciation of different cultures.Examples of small, impactful actions that lead to significant progress in creating a diverse and inclusive workplace.Connect with Randi White on LinkedInProduced and Hosted by Nadia KoskiEngineered by Phil McDowellProject Lead Dennis KirschnerYou can contact the show at womenleadpodcast@the-digital-distillery.comor go to the website.Find us on LinkedIn, Facebook & Instagram
3 Powerhouse Leaders: Sarah Emmerich, Verena Gründel, Maud Schock - LIVE from HORIZONT Snowmasters
15-05-2024
3 Powerhouse Leaders: Sarah Emmerich, Verena Gründel, Maud Schock - LIVE from HORIZONT Snowmasters
Nadia Koski took to the snow-covered Austrian slopes to record this special Women Lead episode live from the Horizont Snowmasters event in Lech Zürs.She sat down with three female leaders who are making incredible strides in their fields: Sarah Emmerich, founder and business creator of Emmerich Relations, expert in in influencer marketing, Director Brand & Communications DMEXCO Verena Gruendel, and Maud Schock, founder and managing director of Agency Entrenous, specializing in personal branding.They covered topics including how to start your own business, self-confidence and public speaking, career change, making your personal branding work for your career, and much more. Interview with Sarah Emmerich min 2:58 - 31:05Connect with Sarah on LinkedInInterview with Verena Gründelmin 31:08 - 1:06:25Connect with Verena on LinkedInInterview with Maud Schockmin 1:06:27 - 1:29:10Connect with Maud on LinkedInBook / Podcast Recs“Convincing people who want to be right” by Marie Theres Braun[German] “Menschen überzeugen, die Recht haben wollen”Lean In - Sheryl SandbergBusiness Punk PodcastThank you to HORIZONT and Obsession for putting on a spectacular event and Hotel Montana for being fabulous hosts.Produced and Hosted by Nadia KoskiEngineered by Phil McDowellProject Lead Dennis KirschnerYou can contact the show at womenleadpodcast@the-digital-distillery.comor go to the website.Find us on LinkedIn, Facebook & Instagram
Building a Supportive Professional Community and Work-Family Balance with Fiona Salmon
02-05-2024
Building a Supportive Professional Community and Work-Family Balance with Fiona Salmon
In this episode, Nadia Koski chats with Fiona Salmon, a leader in the ad tech space for over 20 years and a passionate supporter for sustainability in the digital landscape.Fiona shares her career trajectory from start-ups in contextual advertising to brand safety and search technology, always coupled with her passion and focus on sustainability. They discuss the importance of time management, finding and creating a supportive community to lean on, and the challenges of balancing work and family life. The pair explore how we can set clear boundaries and push for transparency and open communication in the workplace in order to create a supportive environment, especially for working parents. The conversation also explores how we can understand if an employer will prioritize work-life balance to help parents’ thrive in their careers.Fiona shares her experience of bringing sustainable practices into her company and how she was able to align various departments and decision makers. She also breaks down what it means to her to be a democratic leader, highlighting the importance of understanding team dynamics and individual values and communication types to enhance collaboration within teams.Produced and Hosted by Nadia KoskiEngineered by Phil McDowellProject Lead Dennis KirschnerYou can contact the show at womenleadpodcast@the-digital-distillery.comor go to the website.Find us on LinkedIn, Facebook & Instagram