Best Safaraz Ali Podcasts (2025)

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Lisa Davies - Director of Apprenticeship Development at Birmingham City University 25:08

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8d ago25:08

25:08

What happens when higher education meets the dynamic world of apprenticeships? In this episode Safaraz is in conversation with Lisa Davies about her role as Business Development Director at Birmingham City University, where she is delivering employer led Apprenticeship recruitment and training solutions. They talk about the shifting landscape of ap…

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Danny Pardoe - Apprenticeship Growth Manager at Birmingham City University 17:30

27d ago17:30

17:30

Can apprenticeships be more than just a backup plan? Join us as we converse with Danny from Birmingham City University, who passionately argues for apprenticeships as a first-choice pathway. With Danny at the helm of apprenticeship programs, he sheds light on the transformative power of these initiatives, challenging outdated perceptions. https://c…

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Kirstie Donnelly MBE, CEO at City & Guilds now part of PeopleCert discusses the sale and much more! 1:07:55

1M ago1:07:55

1:07:55

Kirsty Donnelly, CEO of City & Guilds, talks to Safaraz Ali about her remarkable journey as she takes the helm under the new ownership of PeopleCert. In this powerful episode of Canny Conversations, Safaraz Ali sits down with Kirstie Donnelly MBE, the Chief Executive Officer of City & Guilds, to explore a career shaped by transformation, vision, an…

1
Lisa Capper MBE - CEO & Principal of Sandwell Colleges - Part 2 34:04

2M ago34:04

34:04

Welcome to the second half of Safaraz's conversation with Lisa Capper MBE, the CEO and Principal of Sandwell Colleges. In this episode, Lisa takes us behind the scenes of the Sector Work-Based Academy Programmes (SWAPS), revealing how these innovative initiatives are equipping adults with the skills needed to thrive in hospital settings and through…

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Lisa Capper MBE - CEO & Principal of Sandwell Colleges - Part 1 32:44

2M ago32:44

32:44

Welcome to Lisa Capper MBE, the inspiring CEO and principal of the Sandwell Colleges Group. Lisa takes us through her journey of leading the largest college network in the West Midlands, shedding light on how these institutions are pivotal in transforming lives in communities marked by high deprivation. She shares the innovative steps Sandwell Coll…

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Mo Chaudry - Part 2: British Pakistani £170M Entrepreneur in conversation with Safaraz Ali 41:03

2M ago41:03

41:03

Welcome to this very special Canny Conversations podcast. We continue our break from our usual format to bring you the second half of Safaraz’s conversation with Mo Chaudry, British-Pakistani entrepreneur, investor, and philanthropist. Mo Talks about his connection to, and love of Stoke-on-Trent. He tells us about taking the risk of buying Water Wo…

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Mo Chaudry - Part 1: British Pakistani £170M Entrepreneur in conversation with Safaraz Ali 40:16

3M ago40:16

40:16

We are delighted to welcome Mo Chaudry, a British-Pakistani entrepreneur, investor, and philanthropist. He is best known for having owned and transformed Waterworld in Stoke-on-Trent from 1999 until its sale in 2025. Mo is now focused on his roles at M Investment Group and Pulse Global, as well as his ongoing work in community development, mentorin…

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Jon Hornagold - Apprenticeship Manager at Amey - Part 2 31:40

3M ago31:40

31:40

This week we hear the second half of Safaraz’s conversation with Jon Hornagold, the apprenticeship manager at Amey. They look at the differences between apprenticeships and degrees and how the different paths suit different people. It is all about having an alternative choice in training and education. https://cannyconversationspodcast.co.uk/ https…

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Jon Hornagold - Apprenticeship Manager at Amey - Part 1 35:05

3M ago35:05

35:05

This time Safaraz is in conversation with John Hornagold, the apprenticeship manager at Amey. In the first half of this two-part chat, John tells us about his journey from NATO HQ in the Netherland as part of the British army to his role at the civil engineering company, Amey drawing on his love of training gained in the army. https://cannyconversa…

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Nadia Davies, Director of Business Development at Solihull College and University Centre - Part 2 28:47

4M ago28:47

28:47

Dedicated feline behaviour expert and volunteer, Nadia, invites us to explore the complex and often misunderstood world of cats. Forget the notion that cats are merely "not dogs"—Nadia provides a wealth of insights into their unique motivations and survival instincts that remain even in a domestic setting. Our conversation takes a thoughtful turn a…

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Nadia Davies, Director of Business Development at Solihull College and University Centre - Part 1 32:17

4M ago32:17

32:17

This week we hear the first half of Safaras conversation with Nadia Davies, a dedicated and inspiring leader, sharing her incredible journey at Solihull College and University Centre, where she has passionately advanced from a vocational assessor to the Director of Business Development over the past 18 years. Nadia offers a unique perspective on ho…

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Caren Alderwick - Head of Apprenticeships at Cross Country Trains - Part 2 30:57

5M ago30:57

30:57

This week we hear the second half of Safaraz’s conversations with Caren Alderwick, Head of apprenticeships at Cross Country Trains. Caren talks about how the power of education and confidence building can transform the journey back into the workforce as well as recognising and harnessing transferable skills from everyday life. https://cannyconversa…

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Caren Alderwick - Head of Apprenticeships at Cross Country Trains - Part 1 29:26

5M ago29:26

29:26

Join us for a conversation with Caren Alderwick, Head of Apprenticeships and Operational Training at Cross Country Trains, who shares her remarkable journey with the company and her passion for education. https://cannyconversationspodcast.co.uk/ https://safaraz.co.uk/ https://cannybites.co.uk/buy-the-book/ https://www.1386audio.com/have-a-listen…

1
Jay Phillips - Head of Business Engagement for ATHE 29:18

6M ago29:18

29:18

Join us for Safaraz Ali's conversation with Jay Phillips, Head of Business Engagement at ATHE. They explore the dynamic partnership between ATHE and Pathway Group. Jay shares his journey from key account manager to his current role, emphasizing the importance of building strong B2B relationships with training providers and educational centres. We a…

1
Alex Birks - Chief Executive of ATHE 30:19

6M ago30:19

30:19

With roots as a cordon bleu chef and experience in managing a bustling restaurant, Alex ventured into corporate life, where his passion for business transformation flourished. Bridging the gap between vocational training and traditional academia, Alex discusses the evolving landscape and how ATHE has strategically positioned itself as a leader in t…

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Sofia Azam - Skills 4 Startups - Part 2 37:30

6M ago37:30

37:30

In this weeks episode we continue to discover the inspiring transformation of Sophie Azam, who transitioned from a civil servant to a vibrant grassroots leader. Her hands-on leadership style and embrace of digital platforms like TikTok and Shopify are helping to reshape the UK economy. Sophie shares her incredible journey, marked by resilience in t…

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Sofia Azam - Skills 4 Startups - Part 1 44:16

6M ago44:16

44:16

Trailblazing entrepreneur Sophie Azam joins us to share her inspiring journey from the daughter of Pakistani immigrants to a pioneering force in Birmingham's business landscape. With a deep-rooted passion for education and a mission to integrate entrepreneurship into the British education system, Sophie recounts the creation of Ignite Qualification…

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Derrin Kent - TDM Limited - Part 2 42:46

7M ago42:46

42:46

Derrin Kent and Safaraz Ali look at how to shift you perspective on AI tools in coaching as they explore the balance between automation and the human touch. While AI-generated content might lack personal warmth, the presence of mentors and coaches in the workplace remains invaluable. They talk about how AI tools like ChatGPT and Co-Pilot can revolu…

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Derrin Kent - TDM Limited - Part 1 45:06

7M ago45:06

45:06

In the first part of this two-part conversation, we explore the transformative power of AI in education and the workplace, with Derrin Kent from TDM Limited returning to share his insights on the evolving landscape of apprenticeships and AI's revolutionary role. From enhancing learning with GPT tools like ChatGPT and Copilot, to envisioning future …

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Joanna Hughes - Co-CEO of City Century 28:03

7M ago28:03

28:03

Joanna Hughes, a champion for accessible legal education, shares her journey from a distinguished 25-year career in law to pioneering solicitor apprenticeships that eliminate the burden of student loans. As co-CEO of City Century, Joanna collaborates with over 50 international law firms to transform legal training and has seen a remarkable 240% inc…

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Mark Cameron OBE, Chief Executive Officer at the 5% Club - Part 3 25:14

7M ago25:14

25:14

Welcome to another episode of The Canny Conversations podcast, the podcast that sees Safaraz Ali, Co-founder and CEO of The Pathway Group in conversation with some of the major supporters of the Multicultural Apprenticeship and Skills Alliance. In this episode we hear the third and final part of Saf’s conversation with Mark Cameron OBE, Chief Execu…

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Mark Cameron OBE, Chief Executive Officer at the 5% Club - Part 2 27:37

7M ago27:37

27:37

This Commodore of the Royal Navy and OBE recipient shares an unexpected tale of recognition that begins with a surprising moment: mistaking the letter for a speeding ticket. Discover how this distinguished honour was bestowed for a pivotal transformation in Royal Navy recruiting, an achievement that underscores the complexities of aligning young pe…

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Mark Cameron OBE, Chief Executive Officer at the 5% Club - Part 1 28:07

8M ago28:07

28:07

Mark Cameron OBE, CEO of the 5% Club, opens up about his journey from corporate ambitions to altruistic endeavours, sharing invaluable insights into enhancing workplace learning through strategic alliances. With the 5% Club now boasting over 1200 members, Mark unravels the vision behind inspiring employers to dedicate a meaningful portion of their …

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Louise Timperley Apprenticeship manager at The Co-Op - Part 2 35:49

10M ago35:49

35:49

In the continuation of our conversation with Louise we take a closer look at how employers can play a central role in skills development and employability, with a particular focus on diversity and inclusion within the workforce. Louise discusses her time at the Co-op, where she has seen first hand the impact of apprenticeships in fostering not just…

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Louise Timperley Apprenticeship manager at The Co-Op - Part 1 35:40

10M ago35:40

35:40

Explore the multifaceted world of the Co-op Group and uncover the secrets behind their expansive reach beyond just food stores. Louise Timperley, a long-time leader in apprenticeship skills at Co-op, shines a light on the organization, which also operates funeral care homes, legal services, and insurance branches. With a workforce of 57,000 nationw…

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Paddy Craven - The Director of Policy at the City & Guilds Group - Part 2 29:50

10M ago29:50

29:50

In this second half of Safaraz's conversation with Paddy Craven the Director of Policy at the City and Guilds group. They are talking about non-linear career path as Paddy tells us about his fascinating journey from art and design to a leadership role in policy and stakeholder partnerships. Paddy shares captivating insights into how diverse experie…

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Paddy Craven - The Director of Policy at the City & Guilds Group - Part 1 30:40

11M ago30:40

30:40

In this latest episode of the podcast, Safaraz’s is in conversation with Paddy Craven, Director of Policy at City & Guilds group. Paddy talks to Safaraz about the transformative power of vocational education and how City & Guilds has become a leading force in skills development with their remarkable 140-year legacy. He goes on to tell us about the …

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Adam Vasco - Director of Diversity & Inclusion - University of Wolverhampton - Part 3 28:24

11M ago28:24

28:24

Have you ever wondered how education can shape not just your career, but your entire self? Join us as we unravel the transformative journey of Adam Vasco the Director of Diversity & Inclusion at University of Wolverhampton, whose leadership evolution and personal growth offer a compelling narrative about the intersection of education, identity, and…

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Adam Vasco - Director of Diversity & Inclusion - University of Wolverhampton - Part 2 32:56

11M ago32:56

32:56

Can cultural competency truly transform education? Join us as Adam Vasco, the Director of Diversity & Inclusion at the University of Wolverhampton, with doctoral expertise, shares his ground-breaking research on cultural humility and inclusivity strategies. Drawing inspiration from thought leaders like Terry Cross and Dr. Milton Bennett, Adam has d…

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Adam Vasco - Director of Diversity & Inclusion - University of Wolverhampton - Part 1 29:45

11M ago29:45

29:45

Adam Vasco, the Director of Diversity and Inclusion at the University of Wolverhampton, brings his rich tapestry of experiences to our conversation, offering a profound glimpse into what it truly means to integrate equality within an academic environment. With his Nigerian and Scouse roots deeply influencing his approach, Adam takes us through the …

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Kim Hardman, AstraZeneca’s Director of Apprenticeships - Part 2 27:41

1y ago27:41

27:41

Unlock the secrets to standing out in the increasingly competitive world of apprenticeships with our latest episode featuring Kim Hardman, the Director of Apprenticeships at AstraZeneca. Discover how AstraZeneca's apprenticeship program has evolved into a well-oiled machine that not only develops hard skills but also prioritises personal growth and…

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Kim Hardman, AstraZeneca’s Director of Apprenticeships - Part 1 33:24

1y ago33:24

33:24

Kim Hardman, AstraZeneca's Director of Apprenticeships, opens up about her extraordinary 23-year journey with the company, offering a unique insider perspective on the evolution of apprenticeships in the world of science and technology. Under the leadership of CEO Pascal Soriot, Kim has not only witnessed, but actively contributed to the company's …

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Canny Conversations Contemplations - Series 5 - Part 4 23:51

1y ago23:51

23:51

Welcome to the latest in our special episode of Canny Conversations Contemplations where we take a look back at some of the highlights from series 5 and Safaraz's interviews with some of the people involved with, and supporting, the Multi Cultural Apprenticeship Alliance. In this episode we hear from Jenny Pelling, Director of Apprenticeship Develo…

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Canny Conversations Contemplations - Series 5 - Part 3 23:24

1y ago23:24

23:24

In this episode we have brought together some clips of Saf’s conversations with, first, Paul Eeles, the CEO of The Skills and Education Group. and then followed Jan Richardson-Wilde, CEO of Occupational Awards Limited, Safaraz talks to Paul and Jan about their journey and careers, and some of what they bring to the multi-cultural alliance.…

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Canny Conversations Contemplations - Series 5 - Part 2 20:32

1y ago20:32

20:32

Welcome to this second special episode of Canny Conversations Contemplations where we take a look back at some of the highlights from series 5 and Safaraz's interviews with some of the people involved with, and supporting, the Multi Cultural Apprenticeship Alliance. In this episode we hear from Viren Patel, the CEO of Open University World Wide and…

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Canny Conversations Contemplations - Series 5 - Part 1 25:21

1y ago25:21

25:21

Welcome to the first of these special episodes of the Canny Conversations Podcast where we are going to look back at some of the guests we’ve been hearing from in this current series. Your host, Safaraz Ali has been working in the Birmingham Business Community for 26 years and is the founder of the Multicultural Apprenticeship Awards and the Multic…

1
Derrin Kent - TDM Limited - Part 3 33:54

1y ago33:54

33:54

Is the traditional 9-5 workday hindering your potential? Discover how fostering a culture of lifelong learning and adaptability can bridge the digital skills gap within your organization. We challenge employers to move beyond outdated training methods and instead champion a dynamic environment of continuous learning for all employees, regardless of…

1
Derrin Kent - TDM Limited - Part 2 36:26

1y ago36:26

36:26

In the second part of this conversation between Safaraz Ali and Derrin Kent from TDM, they explore the transformative potential of employer accountability and engagement in apprenticeship programs. Derrin highlights the critical role of employers in driving the apprenticeship process, fostering a partnership that emphasizes experiential, on-the-job…

1
Derrin Kent - TDM Limited - Part 1 40:45

1y ago40:45

40:45

In this brand-new episode of Canny Conversations, Safaraz is talking to Derrin Kent, Managing Director of TDM Limited. In the first part of this three part conversation Derrin tells us about his beginnings, teaching English as a foreign language, and goes on to share his inspiring path to becoming a leader in apprenticeship and development sectors.…

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Emily Rock - The CEO of the Association of Apprentices - Part 2 33:25

1y ago33:25

33:25

From influential roles at Lloyd's Banking Group to pioneering transformations at Capita, Emily Rock's journey from the world of banking to the vibrant landscape of skills and training is nothing short of inspiring. We dive into the complexities and triumphs experienced during their transition, especially amidst the difficulties of the COVID-19 pand…

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Emily Rock - The CEO of the Association of Apprentices - Part 1 27:49

1y ago27:49

27:49

In this episode we hear the first half of Safaraz's conversation with Emily Rock, the dynamic CEO of the Association of Apprentices She joins him to share her inspiring journey from corporate life to leading a micro-organization dedicated to supporting apprentices. We discover the unique challenges she faces in her role and her innovative strategie…

1
Phil Wilkinson - CEO of Ascentis - Part 3 31:17

1y ago31:17

31:17

What if the secret to educational excellence lies in focusing on quality over rapid expansion? Join us in an inspiring discussion as we journey through the remarkable transformation of Nelson & Clone College Group under the stewardship of Phil Wilkinson. Safaraz and Phil unpack the strategic decisions that prioritized exceptional student experience…

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Phil Wilkinson - CEO of Ascentis - Part 2 32:31

1+ y ago32:31

32:31

Join us for the second part of this insightful journey into the dynamic evolution of Ascentis, as we explore its board structure and strategic direction. We begin by discussing the significant transformation from a cumbersome 50-member board to a streamlined seven-member team, comprising trustees from various educational sectors. Phil Wilkinson, th…

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Phil Wilkinson - CEO of Ascentis - Part 1 33:12

1+ y ago33:12

33:12

Welcome to Canny Conversations! In this episode, we delve into the inspiring journey of Phil Wilkinson, the visionary CEO of Ascentis, who transformed a small educational charity into a £7 million powerhouse. Learn about Ascentis’ innovative qualifications for further education colleges, training organizations, and schools worldwide, as well as the…

1
Dr Mandy Crawford-Lee FRSA, CEO of The University Vocational Awards Council - Part 3 31:35

1+ y ago31:35

31:35

How can we transform the landscape of skills development to meet the demands of a rapidly changing workforce? Tune in as we investigate the critical role of health, particularly mental health, in workforce planning. We'll uncover how the NHS and local governments are leveraging the apprenticeship levy to address shortages, particularly in nursing a…

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Dr Mandy Crawford-Lee FRSA, CEO of The University Vocational Awards Council - Part 2 26:53

1+ y ago26:53

26:53

In this brand-new episode Safaraz Ali is in conversation with Dr. Mandy Crawford-Lee, FRSA, the CEO of The University Vocational Awards Council. In this second part of three, they take a dive deep into the transformative impact of the apprenticeship levy since its inception in 2017. They also explore how it has driven significant investments, parti…

1
Dr Mandy Crawford-Lee FRSA, CEO of The University Vocational Awards Council - Part 1 29:16

1+ y ago29:16

29:16

What if the key to solving the UK's productivity puzzle lies in transforming apprenticeships? Join us as Dr. Mandy Crawford-Lee, FRSA, Chief Executive of the University Vocational Awards Council (UVAC), unveils the extraordinary evolution of apprenticeships over UVAC's 25-year history. Mandy, the first female chief executive of UVAC, shares her ins…

1
Rob Colbourne OBE – CEO at Performance Through People – Part 3 37:38

1+ y ago37:38

37:38

Uncover the secrets of transformational leadership in the vocational training sector. This episode promises to reveal how adopting inspirational and empowering leadership methods can spark growth and learning within your team. From leading by example to fostering an environment where manageable mistakes are opportunities for growth, our guest share…

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Rob Colbourne OBE – CEO at Performance Through People – Part 2 34:50

1+ y ago34:50

34:50

What drives a 15-year-old to leave school and dive headfirst into the workforce? Our guest shares his courageous journey from facing resistance at home and school to discovering a transformative apprenticeship at Debenhams. Through personal anecdotes, he reveals how the Tomorrow's Young Manager program not only shaped his professional values but al…

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Rob Colbourne OBE – CEO at Performance Through People – Part 1 33:17

1+ y ago33:17

33:17

What happens when vocational training meets visionary leadership? Join us as we sit down, for the first of this three part conversation, with Rob Colbourne OBE, the dynamic CEO and co-owner of Performance Through People (PTP). From its roots in the Walsall Chamber of Commerce in the 1960s to becoming a major player with 1,500 apprentices and 80 sta…