Podcast Series: West Country Women

Alexis Bowater meets Carole Barnes from C2 Project Safety. They discuss Carole’s history in the traditionally male world of construction, growing up with dyslexia and how she has dealt with sexism and misogyny in the workplace… as well as her unique way of making tea!

Alexis meets Sophie Alway from Georgia’s Voice, winner of the Phoenix Award. They talk about how the death of Sophie’s daughter, Georgia, inspired Sophie to set up a charity that now helps girls and young women across Cornwall with their mental health struggles. And how do pole dancing classes play a part…?

In this episode, science and technology is at the forefront as Alexis Bowater meets Tanuvi Ethanunden of Data Duopoly and Olivia Smedley from Goonhilly Earth Station, winners of the Women in Tech and the Women in STEM awards. They discuss their journeys into these remarkable roles and the challenges that faced them along the way, as well as what it means to them to be awards winners. And we find out which of our two guests has a history of winning – but on water!

This episode kicks off with Ana Barbosa of Devon County Council, who discusses the differences between life in Brazil and living in a rural area of Devon. Ana also talks about winning the Diversity and Equality Award and what it means for her and her family. Midway through the interview, Ana and Alexis Bowater are joined by the Combatting Violence Against Women and Girls Award winner, Hannah Shead of Trevi. Hannah talks about her campaigning and her hopes for the future.

In the final episode of this first season, Alexis is joined by Sam of Boost Innovations and Alex from WayMakers Devon CIC – winners of Small Business of the Year and Entrepreneur of the Year respectively. They discuss what being winners means to them and the journeys brought them there, as well as the challenges they faced along the way. They also encourage you to take part in next year’s awards…!