Q5 is proud to sponsor Press Gazette’s latest Future of Media, Explained podcast, hosted by Dominic Ponsford. The episode explores the media industry’s accelerating shift towards online video, featuring insights from Goalhanger co-founder Jack Davenport and Q5 Media Lead Connie Krarup on what it means for publishers, audiences, and the future of storytelling.

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Whatever medium publishers started out on, many are now racing towards YouTube and other online video platforms as the fastest-growing source of both audience and revenue.

In this episode, Press Gazette editor Dominic Ponsford is joined by Jack Davenport, co-founder of Goalhanger, producers of The Rest Is History and The Rest Is Politics, alongside Connie Krarup, Media Lead at Q5. Together, they unpack how the media landscape is evolving, why video now dominates, and what it takes to thrive in this new era.

Jack shares how Goalhanger increasingly sees itself as a video production company rather than an audio producer, and why the term “podcast” is being redefined. He also discusses Goalhanger’s commercial model and offers valuable insights for publishers navigating the video-first future.

This episode was recorded and produced by Press Gazette and proudly sponsored by Q5.

Listen to the podcast below:

Explore more from Q5

• The New Newsroom: Q5 Report
• Why Video’s Reign Has Only Just Begun – insights from the Press Gazette Future of Media Technology Conference

The post The Media Industry’s race to video appeared first on Q5 Partners.

This summer, Tama Learning hosted “How to Create Inclusion in the Learning Space”, a panel featuring Blanche Improv, Mindshift Empowerment, Saterman Connect, and Q5. Our own Dale Graham shared Q5’s perspective on empathy, fairness, and healthy organisational culture. Themes included neurodiversity, psychological safety, and the power of language. Listen to the full discussion below.

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Tama Learning hosted a thought-provoking panel discussion titled “How to Create Inclusion in the Learning Space.” The virtual event, held on 21st July 2025, explored what it truly means to design learning environments where every individual feels included, respected, and able to thrive.

We were especially proud that Q5 was represented by Dale Graham, our Culture & Client Offering Lead. Dale brought rich experience in organisational health and cultural transformation, sharing why empathy, fairness, and psychological safety are at the heart of healthy organisations.

Dale was joined by fellow panellists:

• Lelda Kapsis – Blanche Improv
• Lucy Wilson – Mindshift Empowerment
• Josh Saterman – Saterman Connect
• Jess Rogers – Tama Learning (host & facilitator)

Listen to the full discussion below:

What the panel explored

The discussion focused on five themes shaping inclusive learning:

1. Designing for Neurodiversity – ensuring learning spaces accommodate different needs.
2. Inclusion before, during & after – planning, facilitation, and follow-up all matter.
3. Psychological safety – people learn best when they feel safe to contribute.
4. Inclusive content & language – words, stories, and materials must reflect diversity.
5. Power dynamics & participation – leaders and facilitators should consciously create space for others.

Q5’s perspective – Dale Graham on Inclusion

Throughout the conversation, Dale emphasised that:

• Inclusion is not complicated – sometimes, it’s as simple as being a decent, empathetic human being.
• Psychological safety signals health – when people feel safe enough to be vulnerable, ask questions, or admit mistakes, inclusion is working.
• Power dynamics can’t be ignored – leaders must be aware of the space they occupy and actively make room for quieter voices.
• Culture is the foundation – healthy organisations are inclusive, collaborative, fair, engaging, and psychologically safe.

These insights resonate deeply with Q5’s mission: to help organisations become healthier, more successful, and better places to work.

Broader takeaways from the panel

• Humility: Inclusion begins with putting ego aside and staying open to feedback.
• Kindness & Compassion: Empathy is the foundation of excellence in learning spaces.
• Language Matters: The words we use shape culture and belonging.
• Individual Focus: Inclusion happens when we care for individuals, not just groups.

Final reflections from the panel

• “Inclusion is about the individual — how we care for each person, not just groups.” – Lelda Kapsis
• “Reflect on how you respond to feedback. Are you reacting with fight, flight, fawn, or freeze?” – Lucy Wilson
• “Language has power. Stay curious, stay humble, and keep learning.” – Josh Saterman
• “At its core, inclusion is about being a decent, empathetic human being.” – Dale Graham, Q5
• “Stay humble, seek feedback proactively, and design with inclusion at the heart.” – Jess Rogers

Why it matters

At Q5, we believe every organisation deserves a healthy culture, and inclusion is a non-negotiable part of that. This panel reinforced that creating inclusive learning spaces is not a one-time effort, but an ongoing practice of humility, empathy, and intentional design. If this topic is of interest to you, please do get in touch — we’d love to chat!

Dale Graham

dale.graham@q5partners.com

Culture & Client Offering Lead

The post How to create inclusion in the learning space appeared first on Q5 Partners.

Q5’s Annabel Tonge joins Climb25’s Conversations at the Summit podcast to explore how purpose can be brought to life inside organisations. From crisis leadership to launching the Q5 Leeds office and now directing the Q5 Foundation, she shares practical insights on embedding purpose into strategy, culture, and community impact.

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We’re excited to share the latest episode of Climb25’s Conversations at the Summit podcast, featuring Annabel Tonge, Director of the Q5 Foundation. Listen below:

In this episode titled From Consultant to Changemaker: Annabel Tonge on Purpose in Action, Annabel dives into how purpose shows up in action, not as a slogan, but as a lived commitment. She shares how Q5 navigated the COVID-19 pandemic with intention, the origins of Q5 Pop-Up Consulting, and why real impact must start from within.

She also reflects on her leadership journey, from establishing Q5’s Leeds office and launching our Brand and Marketing team, to now leading the Q5 Foundation, which delivered over £1 million in pro bono consulting to charities and social enterprises in 2024 alone. Download our Impact Report here.

Other highlights include:

• Why purpose is something you build, not find
• What makes mission-led organisations different
• How consulting can be a force for good, commercially and socially
• Why embedding purpose into culture is essential for real change

Annabel brings over 30 years of cross-sector leadership experience, combining commercial rigour with creativity and a deep commitment to social good.

The post Building purpose into action appeared first on Q5 Partners.

In this episode of the “In Conversation with Q5” podcast, experts delve into the fundamentals of Strategic Workforce Planning (SWP). They demystify SWP by breaking down its core theories and translating them into actionable strategies. The discussion highlights the pivotal role of data in empowering better decision-making and illustrates how organisations can proactively address workforce challenges to thrive amidst economic uncertainties.

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Join us for another ‘In Conversation with Q5’ podcast, where we debunk the myths and discuss what Strategic Workforce Planning really means, hearing from Hannah Buckley, Associate Partner at Q5, Jay Patel, Head of Strategic Workforce Planning at Q5 and Kyle Fitzgerald, Head of Q5 Analytics.

Together, they break down the core theory, translate it into practical, real-world application, and share examples that illustrate how it works in action. We also explore the key role of data on an SWP journey – how it empowers better decisions and helps organisations stay ahead of workforce challenges.

Listen to the podcast below:

Equip your organisation with the tools and insights needed to thrive amidst economic challenges. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from industry experts and drive your organisation’s success, and if this topic is something you’re looking into, we’d love to chat!

Jay Patel

Head of Strategic Workforce Planning

jay.patel@q5partners.com

The post De-mystifying Strategic Workforce Planning appeared first on Q5 Partners.

In this vital conversation, chaired by Prospect’s Alan Rusbridger, four leading voices share insight on what’s holding the UK back and how we might move forward. From economic inclusion to purposeful leadership, the panel explores the levers for growth that go beyond GDP and into the heart of Britain’s future. Listen below.

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This podcast is a recorded in-person panel discussion from our What’s Next? event series. Chaired by Prospect Editor Alan Rusbridger, our expert panel share their perspectives on the crucial topic of What do we need to shift the dial on UK growth? exploring the implications of latest policies, their impact on businesses and wider communities, and the stimuli to help nudge the dial in low-growth Britain.

Our expert panellists:

• Danny Sriskandarajah, Chief Executive of the New Economics Foundation
• Mary Macleod, Chief Executive of Business in the Community
• David Clarke, Chief Executive of the British Paralympic Association
• Sharon Rice-Oxley, Founder and Partner at Q5

Join them as they address the barriers and opportunities that present themselves following the Government’s pivotal pledge to make the UK the fastest-growing economy in the G7. Listen to the discussion below or on your preferred streaming service.

The post What do we need to shift the dial on UK growth? appeared first on Q5 Partners.

Claire Markwardt, Managing Partner of Q5 North America, joins the Oil and Gas Industry Leaders Podcast to discuss leadership development through trial and error. She shares insights on leveraging diverse perspectives, embracing adaptability, and building strong teams to achieve long-term success in the energy industry. Listen to the full episode below.

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Achieving strategic growth isn’t just about setting goals – it’s about bringing the right people together, developing strong leaders, and creating an organization that thrives through change.

In Episode 176 of the Oil and Gas Industry Leaders Podcast, host Paige Wilson sits down with Claire Markwardt, Managing Partner of Q5 North America, to explore the power of trial and error in leadership development. Drawing from her experience in the energy industry, Claire shares insights on how leaders can strengthen teams, navigate challenges, and drive long-term success.

Listen to the full episode below:

Key takeaways from the conversation:

• Leverage diverse perspectives – The strongest teams combine different strengths and viewpoints.
• Embrace trial and error – Growth happens when leaders take calculated risks and learn from experience.
• Listen first, lead second – Great leadership starts with understanding your team.
• Stay patient and persistent – Long-term success requires adaptability and resilience.

The post Why trial & error leadership works appeared first on Q5 Partners.

Explore how to unlock your workforce’s full potential by building a culture of engagement, motivation, and development. In this article, we unpack strategies for fostering ownership, spotting talent, and implementing innovative, cost-effective rewards in today’s evolving workplace. Listen to the podcast below.

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On November 21, we hosted a compelling panel discussion, “Maximising employee talents and managing your workforce,” in Leeds, in partnership with Connect Yorkshire and Black Kat HR. Held at Flutter Entertainment, the event brought together leading experts to share practical advice on workforce management.

The session, chaired by Q5’s Dr. Claire Hamlin, featured panelists Emma Smith (Q5 culture expert), Matthew Chapman (CEO of SBFM), Annie Haigh (Director of People Partnering at Flutter Entertainment), and Kat Derbyshire (Founder of Black Kat HR). Together, they explored key themes on culture, motivation, and employee development.

Listen to the full discussion below:

Understanding and shaping company culture

• Defining culture: Panelists emphasised that a strong culture is the foundation for a thriving workplace. It’s not just about perks or mission statements but the lived experience of employees every day.
• Making culture matter: Creating alignment between organisational values and employee behaviours can drive long-term success and employee satisfaction.

Motivating employees to go the extra mile

• Beyond paychecks: The discussion highlighted that intrinsic motivators—such as a sense of purpose and recognition—are more powerful than financial incentives alone.
• Ownership without shares: Businesses can foster a sense of ownership by involving employees in decision-making, celebrating their contributions, and communicating a clear vision.

Spotting and developing talent

• Identifying potential: The panel underscored the importance of proactive talent identification, suggesting tools like mentoring, coaching, and transparent career progression pathways.
• Continuous development: A culture of learning and growth, supported by robust training programs, keeps employees engaged and prepared for future challenges.

Cost-effective rewards and benefits

• Innovative rewards: From flexible working hours to small, thoughtful perks, businesses can implement meaningful rewards that resonate with employees without significant budget increases.
• Listening to employees: Customising benefits based on employee feedback ensures rewards are relevant and valued.

Building a motivated workforce

• Empathy and connection: Leaders who take the time to understand their teams’ individual needs foster trust and loyalty.
• Creating safe spaces: Psychological safety emerged as a crucial component, encouraging open communication and collaboration.

Strategic insights for business success

This lively discussion provided attendees with actionable strategies to overcome common challenges in workforce management. By prioritising culture, fostering engagement, and investing in people, organisations can drive meaningful change and long-term success.

If these themes resonate with your business, tune in to our podcast episode to hear the full discussion and gain practical advice from our expert panel or reach out to our experts.

Emma Smith

Culture Lead

emma.smith@q5partners.com

Dale Graham

DEIB Client Lead & Principal Consultant

dale.graham@q5partners.com

The post Maximising employee talents and managing your workforce appeared first on Q5 Partners.

Recorded live at Prospect, this podcast delves into Labour’s journey since the UK and USA 2024 elections. Chaired by Prospect Editor Alan Rusbridger, the panel—featuring Baroness Simone Finn, Janine Gibson, and Mike Soutar—analyses economic reforms, employment rights, and leadership lessons. Are they delivering on their promises? Listen to the podcast.

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Podcast recap: Elections 2024 – Promises vs Progression

In our latest podcast episode, recorded live at Prospect, we delve into the critical question on everyone’s mind: how well is the Labour government delivering on its promises since the July 2024 elections? Chaired by Prospect Editor Alan Rusbridger, the panel brings together three prominent voices in politics, media, and business for an engaging and thought-provoking discussion.

Listen to the full episode now on your favourite podcast platform to stay informed and inspired!

The panel:

• Baroness Simone Finn: Former Downing Street Chief of Staff under Boris Johnson and Co-founder of FMA, a political consultancy. Baroness Finn sheds light on the complexities of translating campaign rhetoric into actionable policy, highlighting the importance of clear strategy and collaboration in government.
• Janine Gibson: Weekend Editor at the Financial Times. With her expertise in media and political analysis, Janine explores the role of journalism in holding the government accountable and shaping public opinion on their successes—and shortcomings.
• Mike Soutar: Entrepreneur, investor, and trusted adviser on BBC One’s The Apprentice. Mike shares a unique perspective on leadership in both business and politics, emphasising the need for transparency and adaptability to meet expectations.

Key discussion points:

• Economic reforms and public sentiment: The panel critiques Labour’s budget strategy, which includes significant tax increases and an ambitious £70 billion boost to public spending. While the measures aim to address long-term economic stability, their immediate impact on businesses and taxpayers remains a contentious issue.
• Employment rights and social policy: Labour’s Employment Rights Bill—hailed as a transformative piece of legislation—sparked debate on its potential to reshape workplace dynamics. The panel discusses whether these initiatives are sufficient to address systemic challenges in employment practices.
• Media’s role in accountability: Janine Gibson delves into how the media scrutinises the government’s actions and how narratives are crafted to influence public perception. The interplay between policy delivery and public trust becomes a focal point.
• Leadership lessons: Mike Soutar brings a business lens to the conversation, drawing parallels between political leadership and corporate accountability. He underscores the value of clear communication and measurable progress in maintaining credibility.

Takeaways:

The discussion leaves listeners with a nuanced understanding of the Labour government’s journey from promises to implementation. While significant steps have been taken, challenges remain in balancing ambition with realistic execution, managing public expectations, and fostering trust.

Watch the video below:

Looking ahead:

This discussion was part of our What’s Next? series of live events, hosted in Westminster, London, in partnership with Prospect. To receive exclusive invitations to future events, register your interest here.

The post Elections 2024: Promises vs progress appeared first on Q5 Partners.

Explore the early November Oil and Gas HSE podcast episode where host Russell Stewart interviews Jen Gramolt, Partner at Q5. They discuss the concept of organisational health, its impact on safety and efficiency, and practical strategies for fostering a resilient workplace culture. This episode is essential for leaders in energy and beyond.

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What is organisational health? Insights from Oil and Gas HSE podcast

The Oil and Gas HSE podcast, hosted by industry veteran Russell Stewart, is a well-regarded series that explores critical aspects of health, safety, and environmental practices within the energy sector. The show features thought leaders and experts sharing insights into safety innovations, operational efficiency, and sustainability. With a focus on practical applications, the podcast aims to keep industry professionals informed about trends and best practices in health and safety management.

In Episode 298, titled “What is Organisational Health?”, Stewart welcomes Jen Gramolt, a partner at Q5, as a featured guest. Jen’s expertise lies in helping companies optimise their organisational structures to improve efficiency and adapt to industry challenges. Her connection to the Houston area—a major hub for the oil and gas sector—brings a localised perspective on how organisational health principles can be tailored to meet regional and sector-specific demands.

Listen to the podcast below:

Jen’s insights are particularly valuable for Houston-based firms navigating the complexities of oil and gas operations, where safety, compliance, and productivity are paramount. Her practical experience at Q5 enables her to address these topics with a strategic yet actionable approach, making this episode especially relevant to leaders aiming to enhance their company’s operational resilience and safety culture​.

The episode explores organisational health beyond employee well-being, emphasising systems and cultures that foster safety and operational excellence. Topics include measuring health, implementing safety-focused designs, and insights from successful case studies. This blend of expert discussion and actionable advice makes it a must-listen for professionals committed to fostering safe and efficient workplaces.

Find out more about our work in North America.

The post What is the next frontier for safety leadership and performance? appeared first on Q5 Partners.

Join us for another “In Conversation with Q5” podcast, featuring Chris Parsons and Natalie Firth. They discuss innovative strategies for turning financial pressures into strategic advantages, enhancing financial performance, and maintaining operational excellence. Perfect for decision-makers seeking actionable insights in today’s dynamic economic environment.

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With the cost of living continuing to impact all areas of our community, Q5 recently hosted an insightful session exploring how organisations can transform these cost pressures into a formidable strategic advantage. In today’s dynamic economic environment, organisations are seeking innovative ways to enhance financial performance while maintaining competitive edge and operational excellence.

This podcast is the audio version of a workshop we produced, facilitated by Global Founder and President of The Transformation Alliance, Chris Parsons, and the Global Head of Organisational Design, Natalie Firth, and hosted by Director at Q5, Richard Mableson, on the topic of ‘Strategic cost optimisation – transforming financial pressure into competitive advantage.’.

Listen to the podcast below:

This webinar is designed for senior decision makers and executives from all types of organisations, focusing on cutting-edge strategies and actionable insights for effective cost management. The discussion brings together two leading voices from Q5 to share their unique experiences from across a wide portfolio of sectors and organisational size.

Equip your organisation with the tools and insights needed to thrive amidst economic challenges. Don’t miss this opportunity to learn from industry experts and drive your organisation’s success, and if this topic is something you’re looking into, we’d love to chat!

Nat Firth

Global Head of Organisation Design

natalie.firth@q5partners.com

Check out our work in the Sustainable Cost Optimisation space.

The post How to turn financial pressures into strategic advantages appeared first on Q5 Partners.