The Green Room: Questions That Matter Most In Business

Épisodes

• What makes us feel confident in what we buy? With Julia Lo Bue-Said and Tom Astill 02.06.2026 35min

  It's no longer a question of whether AI will change how we buy, but by how much?  We're turning to AI for inspiration and advice - and soon, it may even guide or manage decisions for us. Not since the rise of e-commerce in the 1990s have we seen transformation at this scale – and how we discover, choose and engage with brands is being redefined.  At the same time, the path to purchase has shifted from being one dimensional. We no longer access retailers solely in-store or via their websites. Instead, we're relying on platforms such as social media to buy too – all with an added want for personalisation. For brands, this creates opportunity, but also pressure. Showing up in the right places, with the right experience, requires new capabilities, new infrastructures and new ways of thinking. Because as technology becomes more accessible, it's no longer a differentiator in itself.  So, what does it take to set businesses apart? What will define the brands that people choose in the future? Will human connection be replaced or become more valuable as time goes on? And if every organisation has access to the same tools, why do some experiences resonate more than others? In this episode of The Green Room, we ask: What makes us feel confident about what we buy? With Julia Lo Bue-Said, CEO of Advantage Travel Partnership, and Tom Astill, Director in Deloitte Digital. Tune in to find out: How the consumer journey is changing and why What we can learn from past shifts such as ecommerce How to balance AI solutions with human experience What will define the brands that people choose in the future Enjoyed this episode? Check our website for our recommendations to learn more about this topic: deloitte.co.uk/greenroompodcasts Find out more about Young Women's Trust. Guests: Julia Lo Bue-Said, CEO of Advantage Travel Partnership, and Tom Astill, Director in Deloitte Digital Hosts: Stephanie Dobbs and Oli Carpenter Original music: Ali Barrett Recording date and location: London, 18.05.26 - recorded in front of a live audience
• How do we turn AI ambition into a national advantage? With Sharon Hague and OIiver Seal 12.05.2026 42min

  The AI race is on. But what does it take to not just keep up, but to win?  Even though we're using AI at work, at home and on-the-go, are we really ready to use it at scale as a country?  Last year, the UK joined a growing list of countries setting out an ambitious vision for how AI could provide a better future. For those who succeed, the prize is significant. A future powered by AI could bring economic growth and increased productivity, improved public services, and new opportunities across society.  But ambition alone isn't enough. To reap the rewards, we need the right foundations in place.  Delivering digital skills and education to an entire nation. Redefining regulation and securing sufficient and sustained financial investment. Rebuilding our national infrastructure and providing access to cheap energy that can power dramatically increased AI usage.  So, how do we turn an appealing vision of the future into reality? And what will it really take from individuals, businesses, governments and the public sector to bring a national AI strategy to life?  That's what we're exploring with Sharon Hague, CEO of Pearson UK, and Oliver Seal, Partner and leader of the firm's Education Practice at Deloitte UK, as we ask: How do we turn AI ambition into a national advantage. Tune in to find out Why now is a critical juncture in the UK's AI journey The foundations we need to ensure the UK is ready for an AI-driven future How we make sure everyone has the access and skills they need to benefit from AI  The role business can play in bringing a national AI strategy to life  Enjoyed this episode? Check our website for our recommendations to learn more about this topic: deloitte.co.uk/greenroompodcasts Find out more about Scope: scope.org.uk   Guests: Sharon Hague, CEO of Pearson UK Oliver Seal, Partner at Deloitte UK Hosts: Stephanie Dobbs Oli Carpenter Original music: Ali Barrett Recording date and location: London, 30.04.26
• Are people the superpower that drives transformation? With Kate O'Neill and Mike Manby 28.04.2026 35min

  Companies are investing more than ever in technology to transform their businesses. But the full impact isn't being felt. Most organisations believe they are missing out on up to 50% of the returns they expect from digital transformation. So, what's the missing piece? Do firms need to invest more or does the answer lie in their leadership and culture? From AI to cloud platforms, organisations are undertaking digital transformation in the search for added efficiency, growth and competitive advantage. But change doesn't just happen to systems, it affects people too. If technology is a tool for transformation, is it the people and culture who drive real change?   Behind every platform rollout and process redesign are employees being asked to adapt to and buy into a new way of working. And without a culture enabling people to embrace this change, nearly half of leaders say their success will be hindered. So, what role do people have in unlocking tech potential? What does a culture that can supercharge the impact of technology investments actually look like? What foundations need to be built when designing transformation plans? And how can organisations stay future-ready but people-centric? That's what we're exploring in this episode of The Green Room with Kate O'Neill, author and Founder of KO Insights, and Mike Manby, Technology & Transformation Consumer Industry Lead at Deloitte, as we ask: Are people the superpower that drives transformation? Tune in to find out: The role of leadership in driving transformational and culture change How the right culture can supercharge the impact of technology The foundations that need to be built when designing transformation plans How organisations can stay future-ready but people-centric Enjoyed this episode? Check out our website for our recommendations to learn more about this topic: deloitte.co.uk/greenroompodcasts Find out more about The Yard here:  The Yard Charity | Supporting disabled children and young people Guests: Kate O'Neill, author and Founder of KO Insights, and Mike Manby, Technology & Transformation Consumer Industry Lead at Deloitte Hosts: Annie Wong and Oli Carpenter Original music: Ali Barrett Recording date and location: London, 25.02.26
• What will be the last job on earth? With Ben Legg and Anne-Marie Malley 14.04.2026 37min

  Seven years ago, we were yet to experience a pandemic.  Some of us were just discovering podcasts – and were yet to discover an air fryer. And Artificial Intelligence was, for many of us, something we only saw on the big screen.  And in The Green Room's very first episode, we were asking 'What will be the last job on earth?'  It was a year before GPT-3 changed the GenAI landscape, nearly four years before ChatGPT hit the mainstream and five years before regulation caught up and the world's first legal framework for AI would be passed.  A lot has changed since then. But that first big question matters more than ever.   AI has transformed our lives in ways that we couldn't have predicted. It's performing tasks, making decisions for us and helping us to create new things. And so, after years of experimenting with it, working with it, and investing in it, are we closer to understanding how AI will really impact the future of work?    Some of us will go on to do jobs that don't yet exist, so how do we prepare for that? What skills do we need to learn now to prepare for the future – and what skills are essential to retain?  Beyond our own careers, what changes need to be made at a societal level to ensure everyone has the right knowledge, experience and access to prosper in the future? And what role do businesses have to play in leading these changes in a way that benefits everyone?   In our 100th episode of The Green Room podcast, we return to the question that started it all:  What will be the last job on earth? With guests Ben Legg, CEO and co-founder of The Portfolio Collective, and Anne-Marie Malley, Vice Chair at Deloitte UK.  Tune in to find out: What significant changes have impacted how we work over the past seven years How the increased use of AI is affecting hiring and talent, and what new roles are emerging The new skills we need to learn to be prepared for the future of work The role of business in ensuring everyone has the right skills and access to prosper in the future Enjoyed this episode? Check our website for our recommendations to learn more about this topic: deloitte.co.uk/greenroompodcasts Find out more about Deloitte's Five Million Futures: https://www.deloitte.com/uk/en/about/story/impact/social-impact.html  Guests:  Ben Legg, CEO and co-founder of The Portfolio Collective Anne-Marie Malley, Vice Chair at Deloitte UK Hosts: Stephanie Dobbs and Annie Wong Original music: Ali Barrett Recording date and location: London, 02.04.26
• Bonus Episode: The First 100 – The ideas that shaped us 24.03.2026 43min

  In The Green Room, we've always set out to answer the biggest questions that matter most in business. Now, as we approach our milestone 100th episode, we're taking a moment to look back at some of the conversations and ideas that have stayed with us – and still influence how business operates today.   We've explored everything from the future of work and leadership to AI, sustainability and the changing role of business in society.    Along the way, we've been joined by a remarkable range of guests, including physicist Professor Brian Cox, retail expert Mary Portas, and McLaren Racing CEO Zak Brown. Plus, many more.   In this special bonus episode, we revisit our standout moments – the insights that have challenged our thinking, shaped our perspectives, and helped us explore where the future of business is heading next.  Featured Episodes (in order of appearance in the podcast): #79 - Can we all win in the space race? #62 - Are leaders born or made? #55 - Should leaders think more like activists? #75 - Can we communicate better by saying less? #36 - How do you start a movement? #49 - Can one person change a big business? #5 - Will I ever feel good enough for my job? #92 - What if our next decision makers aren't human? #47 - Can AI help us be more human? #95 - How do we move AI from trialling to transforming? #67 - Are we asking the right questions about AI? #89 - Is it easier to start a sustainable business or become one? #58 - Who's responsible for being responsible? #84 - What does it take to turn things around? #33 - What's the secret to performing at your best? #61 - What comes first, vision or buy-in? #68 - What makes a champion? Bigger Questions series: What's the power of being first? #76 - How can we remodel role models? ---  Find more information on all our episodes here: deloitte.co.uk/greenroompodcasts Original music: Ali Barrett  
• How does supporting families support us all? With Anna Whitehouse and Jackie Henry MBE 10.03.2026 39min

  Our careers don't happen in isolation.   What we carry from our lives outside of work shapes how we show up inside of it. At certain points in life, work doesn't just sit alongside family and caring responsibilities – it actively coincides with them. And how organisations respond in those moments underpins the kind of workplaces they really are.   As the world of work continues to evolve, businesses are being challenged to do more than offer flexibility as a perk. Today's workforce is navigating parenthood, caregiving, and complex family lives alongside their careers. And the question is firmly shifting from not just whether employees support families, but how they deliberately build systems, policies and cultures that reflect that.    So, is looking after employees just a moral choice – or a strategic one? And when people feel understood and supported, do they stay longer, contribute more, and help build stronger organisations? Is what's good for families, good for business too? And when we design work in a way that allows people to sustain their careers, does this move businesses from just existing to thriving?   How can creating these spaces for families and carers build stronger, more successful businesses? Can flexibility and trust translate into higher productivity and better performance, as well as improved retention and talent attraction? And what will it take to design workplaces where supporting people through real life isn't just a compromise, but an advantage for businesses as a whole?   That's what we're exploring in this episode of The Green Room with Jackie Henry MBE, Managing Partner for People and Purpose at Deloitte UK, and Anna Whitehouse, journalist, author, broadcaster and founder of Mother Pukka and Flex Appeal, as we ask: How does supporting families support us all? Tune in to find out: How conversations around work and flexibility have changed The role of leadership in creating work that's good for business and families Why 'trust' is a key ingredient in making flexible working work How businesses can adapt to build workplaces of the future Enjoyed this episode? Check our website for our recommendations to learn more about this topic: deloitte.co.uk/greenroompodcasts Find out more about The Yard here: theyardscotland.org.uk Guests: Jackie Henry MBE, Managing Partner for People and Purpose at Deloitte UK, and parenting influencer, Anna Whitehouse, also known as Mother Pukka Hosts: Annie Wong and Oliver Carpenter Original music: Ali Barrett Recording date and location: London, 19.02.26
• Is the internet getting safer? With Cosima Wiltshire and James Smith 24.02.2026 38min

  Two years ago, in episode #64 of The Green Room, we asked the question 'How do we stay safe online?'    Since then, progress has been made. Businesses, tech leaders, governments and wider society have taken the time to understand the 'how' and have moved on to the 'do'.     Some countries have started taking steps to ban under-16s from all major social media platforms, while the UK has rolled our further developments in its Online Safety Act, bringing in new legislation that aims to protect both children and adults.      But in digital spaces, progress rarely moves in a straight line, and it can feel like every meaningful step forward is matched with a new threat that pushes us backwards.  In just two short years, the use of generative AI has become widespread. And while the technology has the potential to make us more productive and creative, it's also armed bad actors with new ways to spread misinformation, share upsetting content, and develop nefarious scams – all of which pose serious risks, not just to children and young people but to adults and businesses too.    So, how far have we really come in making the internet a secure and empowering space for everyone? Are things improving? Or just changing? How do we strike the right balance between protection and privacy? And what role can businesses and individuals play in keeping up with new technology to create an internet that is safe and valuable for everyone?     That's what we're exploring with Cosima Wiltshire, Director  at FlippGen, and James Smith, Head of Trust & Safety at Deloitte, as we ask: Is the internet getting safer?   Tune in to find out: Why has the conversation around digital safety increased? What significant developments in online protection have occurred in the last two years? How do we measure the success of digital safety initiatives? What's the role of business in creating a safer digital world for everyone? Enjoyed this episode? Check our website for our recommendations to learn more about this topic: deloitte.co.uk/greenroompodcasts Find out more about The Yard here: theyardscotland.org.uk Guests:  Cosima Wiltshire, Strategy and Partnerships Consultant at FlippGen, and James Smith, Head of Trust & Safety at Deloitte Hosts: Stephanie Dobbs and Oliver Carpenter Original music: Ali Barrett Recording date and location: London, 18.02.26
• Is it time to reset supply chains? With Dr Alok Choudhary and Sarah Noble 10.02.2026 37min

  From the avocados on our toast to the niche blend of coffee that sits on the table next to them. From the medicine waiting to be collected at the pharmacy to the smartphone we used to renew the prescription.    Every product we pick up and service we use is a result of a complex, global web of ships, planes, warehouses, technology and people that keep our world moving. That is until something goes wrong – and that's been happening more often in recent years.    Whether it's the effects of geopolitical unrest, global trade policies, extreme weather or even cyber-attacks, supply chains that once seemed robust are now under an increasing amount of pressure. And that means businesses are too, because their challenge is no longer just to move products from A to B – it's to build a system that is lean enough to be competitive, but resilient enough to survive the next global shock.    So, what does a steadfast supply chain that can withstand an unreliable world look like? Do businesses need to completely rebuild their existing supply chains? Or can they simply be renovated? Could technology like AI and blockchain help bring more stability and security to fragile systems? And where does sustainability and responsibility fit in?   That's what we're exploring with Dr Alok Choudhary, Professor of Supply Chain Management and Head of the Supply Chain Research Group at the University of Warwick, and Sarah Noble, a partner in Supply Chain Transformation at Deloitte, as we ask: Is it time to reset supply chains? Tune in to find out: What are the biggest threats to supply chains today?  How are global trade policies impacting supply chains? How can businesses stress-test their current supply processes? When supply chains breakdown, what's the key to a successful recovery?  Enjoyed this episode? Check our website for our recommendations to learn more about this topic: deloitte.co.uk/greenroompodcasts Find out more about The Yard here: theyardscotland.org.uk Guests: Dr Alok Choudhary, Professor of Supply Chain Management and Head of the Supply Chain Research Group at the University of Warwick, and Sarah Noble, a partner in Supply Chain Transformation at Deloitte Hosts: Stephanie Dobbs and Oliver Carpenter Original music: Ali Barrett Recording date and location: London, 15.01.26
• Does regulation help or hinder growth? With Rob Bishton and Sam Walsh 27.01.2026 38min

  Our days are shaped by rules and regulations.   The expiry date stamped on the sandwich we picked up for lunch. The charge for the plastic bag at the checkout. The banner that asks if we consent to cookies. There's the big stuff too. The security checks before we fly, the safety marks on our new tech and the seatbelt we click into place without thinking.   But despite its ubiquity, regulation sparks mixed feelings. While some rules feel reassuring, others feel restrictive. When done right, regulation can be a catalyst for societal progress and economic growth. It can unlock markets, enforce ethical standards, and build trust. It can also bring challenges too, adding layers of frustration, cost, and complexity to new ideas and initiatives.  With governments now demanding that regulators actively support growth, there's an opportunity to reimagine regulation. Can it be designed to stimulate, rather than stifle, innovation? Is there a way to keep the societal benefits and skip the unnecessary challenges? Or do we simply need to improve our approach and understanding to regulation – and prepare for more of it in the future?  That's what we're exploring with Rob Bishton, CEO of the Civil Aviation Authority, and Sam Walsh, Partner and UK Public Sector Regulation Lead at Deloitte, as we ask: Does regulation help or hinder growth? Tune in to find out: What does successful regulation look like? Does new regulation only ever occur after a crisis? How can regulation stay ahead of new and emerging industries? What can businesses do to prepare for future regulatory changes?   Enjoyed this episode? Check our website for our recommendations to learn more about this topic: deloitte.co.uk/greenroompodcasts Find out more about Young Women's Trust here: youngwomenstrust.org Guests: Rob Bishton, CEO of the Civil Aviation Authority, and Sam Walsh, Partner and UK Public Sector Regulation Lead at Deloitte. Hosts: Stephanie Dobbs and Oliver Carpenter Original music: Ali Barrett Recording date and location: London, 04.12.25
• How do we move AI from trialling to transforming? With Sanjeev Arya and Sam Roddick 09.12.2025 30min

  What's the difference between an interesting experiment and a game-changing asset? It's deciding to make the leap from one to the other. It's knowing that now is the right time to go from starting out to scaling up. And that's where a lot of businesses currently find themselves with their approach to AI.  With 78% of organisations using AI in at least one area of their business, the curiosity phase is over. Businesses have trialled and reported and trialled some more, and leaders have seen how using AI isn't just about doing things quickly - it's about unlocking competitive advantages, encouraging innovation and delivering value to every layer of a business. But growing a pilot test into a project that embeds AI securely, responsibly and profitably across an entire business is no easy feat.  So, what can we learn from those who've turned successful introductions into successful integrations? How do senior leaders build the right infrastructure and culture to support widespread AI adoption? And what does it mean to truly transform a business with AI?  That's what we're exploring with Senior Leader from NVIDIA and Sam Roddick, Global Chief of Strategy for Consulting Services at Deloitte, as we ask: How do we move from trialling to transforming? Tune in to find out: The two timelines businesses need to plan for in their AI strategy How some of the world's most influential organisations are merging human and digital workforces The significant changes AI will make to traditional business models What businesses of any size can do to move out of 'pilot purgatory' Enjoyed this episode? Check our website for our recommendations to learn more about this topic: deloitte.co.uk/greenroompodcasts Find out more about Deloitte's Festive Gift Guide here: https://deloi.tt/4pliJpq Guests: Sanjeev Arya, Head of EMEA for AI Consulting and GSI Partners at NVIDIA, and Sam Roddick, Global Chief of Strategy for Consulting Services at Deloitte Hosts: Lizzie Elston and Oliver Carpenter Original music: Ali Barrett Recording date and location: London, 26.11.2025
• What will it take to power our AI goals? With Carol Yan and Tom Harris 18.11.2025 40min

  When you imagine the future, is it powered by clean energy or driven by AI? As the UK works towards its net-zero goals, our energy system is being asked to do more than ever before – delivering power that's cleaner, smarter, and more reliable to support an increasingly digital and connected world The future isn't just electric – it's intelligent. Artificial intelligence is transforming the way we live and work, boosting productivity, driving economic growth, and helping to tackle some of society's biggest challenges. But AI doesn't run on ideas and data alone – it runs on energy. And as its capabilities expand, so does the demand for power to keep it running. So how do we make sure the UK's ambition to lead in AI and achieve net zero go hand in hand? Can we build an energy system of the future that powers both our digital and sustainable ambitions? What will it take to get there, and who needs to lead the charge? That's what we're exploring in this episode of The Green Room with Carol Yan, General Manager responsible for Amazon Web Services' Energy & Utilities business across the UK & Ireland, and Tom Harris, leader of Deloitte's Sustainable Business Solutions practice, as we ask: What will it take to power our AI goals? Tune in to find out: How AI and new technology is accelerating the journey towards a more sustainable future What really happens when energy giants and tech companies innovate together Why "coopetition" is key to tackling AI's environmental impact How businesses can scale AI responsibly without losing their competitive edge Enjoyed this episode? Check our website for our recommendations to learn more about this topic: Deloitte.co.uk/greenroompodcasts Find out more about The Yard here: The Yard Charity | Supporting disabled children and young people Guests: Carol Yan, General Manager responsible for Amazon Web Services' Energy & Utilities business across the UK & Ireland, and Tom Harris, leader of Deloitte's Sustainable Business Solutions practice. Hosts: Lizzie Elston and Steph Dobbs Original music: Ali Barrett Recording date and location: London, 10.11.25
• What's the secret to better business relationships? With Dr Linda Papadopoulos and Nina Gopal 04.11.2025 42min

  A lot has changed about how we work and do business. But one truth has remained the same – the importance of relationships.  We've all felt the benefits of building good business relationships; successful projects, faster progress, confident decisions, career opportunities and meaningful support.  We've probably all felt the effects of less-good relationships too; stilted results, miscommunication, lack of trust and a lot of frustration.   Whether it's the long-standing client who just introduced a new leader, the potential client who isn't really looking to buy right now, or the unlikely alliance that could change everything; behind every deal, launch, and partnership is people - and the way we relate to each other is at the heart of what really drives success.  So, what does it take to build successful business relationships in a world of hybrid meetings, endless emails, and fast-moving change?  That's what we're exploring with Dr Linda Papadopoulos, psychologist, academic and author, and Nina Gopal, a partner in banking and capital markets at Deloitte UK, as we ask: What's the secret to stronger business relationships?  Tune in to find out: What three traits are found in every successful relationship How to transform conflict into a catalyst for better business relationships Why our reliance on digital communication is preventing us from truly connecting Two things we can all do tomorrow to improve our professional interactions Enjoyed this episode? Check our website for our recommendations to learn more about this topic: Deloitte.co.uk/greenroompodcasts Find out more about Cook For Good here: cookforgood.uk Guests: Dr Linda Papadopoulos, psychologist, academic and author, and Nina Gopal, a partner in banking and capital markets at Deloitte UK Hosts: Lizzie Elston and Oli Carpenter Original music: Ali Barrett Recording date and location: London, 03.10.25
• What if our next decision makers aren't human? With Professor Richard Susskind CBE and Stacey Winters 21.10.2025 45min

  We're used to using technology to help us make decisions. We research, we report and we act. But are we ready to let technology make those decisions by itself?  Generative AI has already changed the way we work - helping us write, code, and create in ways that once felt impossible. But now, we're moving one step further into a world where technology doesn't just suggest or report – it learns, reasons and acts.   For business leaders, the appeal with Agentic AI is clear: faster growth, higher productivity, greater efficiency. In fact, studies show that 42% have already made considerable investments in the technology and the market for Agentic AI alone is expected to grow from $7.84 billion in 2025 to over $56 billion by 2030.  The buzz is there, but so is the risk. So, how do we learn to trust decisions made by agents we can't look in the eye, can't incentivise, and may not fully understand? And how will this transform our skills, our roles and how we define leadership?  That's what we're exploring in this episode of The Green Room with Professor Richard Susskind CBE, AI expert and author, and Stacey Winters, Generative AI Market Leader and Managing Partner for Deloitte North-South Europe, as we ask: What if our next decision makers aren't human?  Tune in to find out:  How Agentic AI will transform the workplace in the years to come   Which industries are thinking differently and leading the adoption of new AI capabilities What leaderships traits will become more in-demand as AI use scales up Why trust by design in the technology and the decisions it makes is critical to success  Enjoyed this episode? Check our website for our recommendations to learn more about this topic: deloitte.co.uk/greenroompodcasts  Find out more about Scope here: scope.org.uk  Guests: Professor Richard Susskind CBE, AI expert and author, and Stacey Winters, Generative AI Market Leader and Managing Partner for Deloitte North-South Europe  Hosts: Lizzie Elston and Oli Carpenter  Original music: Ali Barrett  Recording date and location: London, 04.09.25 
• Do we need to think differently about defence? With Rachel Ellehuus and Duncan Farrow-Smith 30.09.2025 40min

  For many of us, defence is invisible. As we go about our everyday lives, we rarely have cause to think about it. And that's a good thing. It means that the defence sector is doing its job well and preventing threats from becoming incidents that make headlines or change lives. But what that job entails, how it's best done and the tools that are used to do it is changing.  As geopolitical tension and new technology transform the nature of the threats, and how we fight them, defence is becoming more important and more visible for all of us.  Defence spending has increased globally each year for the last decade. Within the UK the defence sector has been identified as key area for growth, with plans suggesting that it could boost the economy by providing more jobs, more innovation and more resilience - as well as increasing the need for greater collaboration between government, institution and industry too. So as private sector looks to play a greater role in the evolution of defence – what could that role actually look like? What does it mean for businesses and the people who work in them? How will it affect defence operations and the society they protect? And what do we all need to understand about defence today to prepare for the future? That's what we're exploring with Rachel Ellehuus, CEO of the Royal United Services Institute, and Duncan Farrow-Smith, Chief Strategy Officer and leader of the defence practice at Deloitte UK, as we ask: Do we need to think differently about defence? Tune in to find out: The economic and strategic opportunities that come with a growing defence sector How different stages of technology and innovation are reshaping the future of defence The ways that public and private sector collaboration can deliver national impact Why zig-zag careers and talent attraction are pivotal for success  Enjoyed this episode? Check our website for our recommendations to learn more about this topic: deloitte.co.uk/greenroompodcasts You can also watch our episodes on Youtube: youtube.com/@DeloitteUK  Find out more about Scope here: scope.org.uk Guests: Rachel Ellehuus, Director-General of the Royal United Services Institute, and Duncan Farrow-Smith, Chief Strategy Officer and leader of the defence practice at Deloitte UK Hosts: Annie Wong and Lizzie Elston Original music: Ali Barrett  
• What does it take to build trust? With Ed Williams and Shauna Robinson 16.09.2025 38min

  Trust influences everything. It helps shape decisions, drives loyalty, and defines reputation. It's the foundation of strong leadership, lasting relationships, and long-term success, across all areas of society. But in today's world, trust is harder to earn – and easier to lose. And at times, it can feel like a balancing act due to shifting values and high expectations. 71% of people say they're more likely to buy from a brand they trust – and 78% will recommend one. Trust shapes the businesses we choose to work with, buy from and believe in. And with many organisations learning to navigate the 'trust crisis', being seen as trusted has never been so important for businesses and leaders alike. So what does it really take to build trust? How do leaders do it best – and what breaks it down? And when trust is damaged, can it ever be rebuilt? That's what we're exploring in this episode of The Green Room with Ed Williams, President, International at Edelman, and Shauna Robinson, Lead Partner for Public Policy at Deloitte UK, as we ask: What does it take to build trust?  Tune in to find out: How trust is measured and the key elements that build it What businesses should focus on to build trust with diverse audiences How we're all impacted by the trust crisis and how to navigate it Why leaders need to be human in a technologically driven world   Enjoyed this episode? Check our website for our recommendations to learn more about this topic: deloitte.co.uk/greenroompodcasts  You can also watch our episodes over on YouTube: youtube.com/@DeloitteUK Find out more about Scope here: Disability charity Scope UK Read Edelman's 2025 Barometer Report here: 2025 Edelman Trust Barometer   Guests: Ed Williams, President, International at Edelman, and Shauna Robinson, Partner for Public Policy and Risk at Deloitte UK Hosts: Stephanie Dobbs and Annie Wong Original music: Ali Barrett
• Is it easier to start a sustainable business or to become one? With Rory MacFadyen and David Rakowski 15.07.2025 39min

  We've all got a lot savvier about sustainability in recent years. We know the size of the climate challenge facing the planet. And we know that the planet needs more than statements, green logos and commitments to use the printer less to tackle it. As we all make more sustainable choices and changes in our personal lives, we look to the businesses we buy from and work for to do the same. Our expectations are higher than ever before, but are some businesses better placed to meet them than others? That's what we're exploring with Rory MacFadyen, co-founder of Reflo, and David Rakowski, Global Circular Economy Lead at Deloitte, in this episode of The Green Room, as we ask: Is it easier to start a sustainable business or to become one? Tune in to find out: Why "sustainable business" is more than a marketing line What businesses are doing to link transparency and consumer trust How Reflo are challenging the idea of sustainable supply chains The shifts and trends shaping business sustainability efforts Enjoyed this episode? Check our website for our recommendations to learn more about this topic: deloitte.co.uk/greenroompodcasts You can also watch our episodes over on YouTube: youtube.com/@DeloitteUK  Find out more about Change Please Find out more about Reflo Guests: Rory MacFadyen, co-founder of Reflo, and David Rakowski, Global Circular Economy Lead at Deloitte. Hosts: Stephanie Dobbs and Oli Carpenter Original music: Ali Barrett  
• How can we put more meaning into our metrics? With David Kennedy and Veronica Poole 01.07.2025 34min

  In a data-driven world, it's easy to get lost in a maze of metrics. We start by looking for helpful measurements that will allow us to track our progress, set goals and make more informed decisions.   But we can quickly lose sight of what we're tracking and why we're tracking it. Because it's easy to collect data – the challenge is knowing how best to use it.  So, what needs to happen to ensure metrics aren't just numbers on a page, but drivers of real change? And how do we use them to give what we say – and do – more meaning and direction? That's what we're exploring with David Kennedy, CEO of Science Based Targets Initiative and Veronica Poole, Vice Chair at Deloitte UK, in this episode of The Green Room as we ask: How can we put more meaning into our metrics? Tune in to find out: Why businesses measure in the first place The benefits of science-based targets  The difference between vanity metrics and meaningful metrics How we can use data to improve and learn Enjoyed this episode? Check our website for our recommendations to learn more about this topic: deloitte.co.uk/greenroompodcasts You can also watch our episodes over on YouTube: youtube.com/@DeloitteUK  Find out more about Scope here: scope.org.uk Find out more about Science Based Targets Initiative here: sciencebasedtargets.org Guests: David Kennedy, CEO of Science Based Targets Initiative and Veronica Poole, Vice Chair at Deloitte UK Hosts: Annie Wong and Stephanie Dobbs Original music: Ali Barrett  
• What's the best way to build a network? With Isabel Berwick and Kirsty Newman 17.06.2025 39min

  What you know matters, but who you know matters more.  That's not quite how the original saying goes, but perhaps it's time for an update. Whereas once 'It's not what you know, it's who you know' might have been whispered and accompanied by a raised eyebrow, things have shifted.  A strong network doesn't, or shouldn't, act as a substitute for our skills. But it can provide us with more opportunities to demonstrate them. According to LinkedIn, 70% of jobs aren't even advertised on job websites, with 85% of all jobs filled through networking.  So, your network, and your ability to network, really matter. But despite its undoubted importance, why does it often feel awkward for so many of us?   The mere thought of circulating a room chatting to strangers or more senior colleagues, can feel daunting and uncomfortable in equal measures. So much so that one in four of us don't network at all. So, how do we overcome the discomfort and find a way to make networking work for us? And build mutually beneficial networks that will help get us to where we want to be? That's what we're exploring with leading FT journalist and author of The Future-Proof Career, Isabel Berwick and Kirsty Newman, Market Chair at Deloitte UK, in this episode of The Green Room, as we ask: What's the best way to build a network?   Tune in to find out:  Why some of us find networking easier than others The difference between being strategic and being inauthentic when networking How businesses can facilitate networking – for their people and their clients Conversation starters to use the next time you network Enjoyed this episode? Check our website for our recommendations to learn more about this topic: deloitte.co.uk/greenroompodcasts You can also watch our episodes on Youtube: youtube.com/@DeloitteUK  Scope here:  scope.org.uk Guests: Isabel Berwick, leading journalist and author of The Future-Proof Career, and Kirsty Newman, Market Chair at Deloitte UK Hosts: Lizzie Elston and Ollie Carpenter Original music: Ali Barrett
• What do we need to learn about learning at work? With Professor Nick van Dam and Heike Dekker-Schäch 27.05.2025 41min

  You learn something new every day. At least, that's how the saying goes. But it's not always how the reality goes – particularly when it comes to our work.   Even though 84% of us feel like learning adds more purpose to our work, demanding deadlines and overflowing inboxes often stop us from finding time to focus on our own development. But being given the time and space to learn new things can lead to some seriously good things, like new opportunities, career growth and improved mental wellbeing. And what's good for us, is good for business too. In fact, research shows that organisations who invest in learning and development are 59% more likely to experience growth. Which could be why workplace learning is back on the agenda. Once associated with bad coffee and badly lit conference rooms, it's now benefiting from better technology and better understanding of the different ways in which we learn.   So, what needs to happen to ensure that learning doesn't keep getting moved to the bottom of our to-do list? And instead, it becomes a continuous process that's rewarding for both individuals and the businesses they work for? That's what we're exploring with guests Professor Nick van Dam, Chief of the IE University Center for Corporate Learning Innovation, and Heike Dekker-Schäch, Dean at Deloitte University, in this episode of The Green Room, as we ask: How can learning be part of our everyday work? Tune in to find out:  Whether 'on the job' really is the best way to learn What a 'learning climate' is and how businesses can influence it Why we all need to consider the next chapter of our careers – regardless of our age How workplace learning is linked to business success Enjoyed this episode? Check our website for our recommendations to learn more about this topic: www.deloitte.co.uk/greenroompodcasts You can also watch our episodes on Youtube: youtube.com/@DeloitteUK  Scope here:  scope.org.uk Guests: Professor Nick van Dam, Chief of the IE University Center for Corporate Learning Innovation, and Heike Dekker-Schäch, Dean at Deloitte University Hosts: Annie Wong and Stephanie Dobbs Original music: Ali Barrett  
• How do we turn words into action? With Paul Van Zyl and Piumi Mitchell 13.05.2025 40min

  "Well done is better than well said."     You might have heard that famous saying from Benjamin Franklin. And it's one that reminds us of the importance of action over words. But what does it take exactly?    When it comes to solving some of the world's biggest problems or doing business in a more sustainable and responsible way, there's no shortage of people talking and theorising.    And that's a good thing. Hearing and learning from others is important. But right now, the world needs more people driving impact as opposed to simply just talking about it. So, how do we encourage businesses and leaders to take that next step?     That's what we're exploring with Paul Van Zyl, Co-founder and CEO of The Conduit, and Piumi Mitchell, Head of Social Impact Partnerships at Deloitte UK, as we ask: How do we turn words into action? Tune in to find out: Why right now is the best time in history to be fighting the big issues How Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu shaped Paul's thoughts on collaboration Why asking, "So what?" is so important  Why collaboration and purpose is more important than power Enjoyed this episode? Check our website for our recommendations to learn more about this topic: deloitte.co.uk/greenroompodcasts You can also watch our episodes over on YouTube: youtube.com/@DeloitteUK  Find out more about The Conduit here: www.theconduit.com  Guests: Paul Van Zyl, Co-founder and CEO of The Conduit, and Piumi Mitchell, Head of Social Impact Partnerships at Deloitte UK Hosts: Annie Wong and Lizzie Elston Original music: Ali Barrett