Sex on Top

In this episode of Sex on Top , it’s just us — reflecting on the lessons from Season One and the themes that stayed with us after our conversation with Maureen Manning. Inspired by Maureen’s powerful reminder that “this was always the path,” we explore what it means to trust your journey, make intentional choices, and recognise that leadership is rarely linear. From preparing for weddings and busy...

In this episode of Sex on Top , we’re joined by Maureen Manning, Founder and Principal Strategist of The Global Nexus Collective whose journey from aspiring performer to global education strategist is a powerful story of purpose, identity, and impact. What began as a love for storytelling on stage took an unexpected turn during a formative study abroad experience at sixteen reshaping not just Maur...

In this episode of Sex on Top , it’s just us reflecting on leadership, identity, and the realities that sit behind the roles we hold. We open up about grief, support systems, and the moments that bring everything into perspective alongside the ongoing juggle of work, family, and the pressure to “hold it all together.” From the idea of “sixteen summers” to the emotional weight of being present, thi...

In this episode of Sex on Top , we’re joined by Gayathri Bala, founder of a community-led Pilates studio in Kingston upon Thames whose journey is a powerful reminder that sometimes the boldest move is stepping off the traditional path. Leaving behind a career in pharmacy and public health, Gayathri took a leap into entrepreneurship, building a business rooted in purpose, connection, and wellbeing....

In this episode of Sex on Top , we take a step back to reflect on the strategic leadership themes sparked by our recent conversation with Jackie Carter, Emeritus Professor at the University of Manchester. What does it really mean to lead strategically in today’s world? We explore the difference between transformational change and incremental shifts, the importance of building a clear narrative for...

Deaf, dizzy, disabled and proudly a proper Northerner -Jackie Carter has spent a lifetime doing things her own way and opening doors for others along the way. From being the first in her working-class family to attend university to becoming a Professor of Computer Science at the University of Manchester, Jackie’s 40-year career has been defined by challenging the status quo and using data to creat...

In this episode, Lily and Alice explore overwhelm, boundaries, and the changing nature of friendships in adulthood. From recognising when you’ve reached your limit to learning that boundaries don’t look the same for everyone, they unpack the realities of managing expectations at work and in life. The conversation moves into evolving relationships, the honesty required for meaningful connection, an...

What happens when the world tells you who to be — but you choose to listen to yourself instead? In this episode of Sex on Top , Alice and Lily sits down with designer, founder and changemaker Shahnaz Ahmed , the creative mind behind the iconic green food hygiene rating signs displayed in cafés and restaurants across the UK. You’ve seen her work. But her journey to the top has been anything but str...

As 2026 kicks off at breakneck speed, Alice and Lily reflect on new beginnings, Blue Monday, and setting intentions on their own terms. From celebrating milestones (200 listens and a little too much wine) to navigating overwhelm, self-care, and the myth of the “restful” festive break. They explore non-linear careers, the gig economy, and the freedom and the pressure of working outside the 9-to-5,...

In this week’s episode, we chat with Ria Yvonne Lingwood, a true creative powerhouse whose career defies the conventional path. From hair and make-up artistry to international creative projects, and from professional bodybuilding to coaching and judging, Ria has navigated a career full of bold risks, unexpected turns, and unapologetic curiosity. Join us as Ria shares: How she turned her hobbies in...

Reflecting on Alex's episode, in this episode Lily and Alice discuss themes of professional identity, empowerment and leadership, highlighting the importance of open dialogue and how to cope when your self worth is taking a knock. Share your questions, stories, or reflections at ⁠@SexOnTopPod⁠ and join us for the conversations women have been waiting far too long to hear. Follow your hosts Lily We...

In this debut episode of Sex on Top, Alice and Lily crack open the real, raw, and unfiltered stories of women leading at the highest levels — starting with trailblazing digital leader Alex Butler. Alex’s career has been anything but ordinary. She’s led major digital transformations, championed creativity across civil society, and built cultures where ideas actually take root. Describing herself as...

Welcome to Sex On Top, the unapologetic, uncensored podcast where Lily and Alice dive head-first into the real, raw, and often messy realities of being a woman in leadership. In our pilot episode, we’re lifting the lid on what it actually takes to rise to the top in today’s workplace from navigating vulnerability to owning your emotions. Join us as we unpack the story behind our name, reflect on h...