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Our Team
Bright minds,
at the top of their game3,500+5 Star reviews120+Clients21Different sectors100%Recommend our training to others
Richard EDWARDS
Founder & Managing Director
At the helm of a thriving business, Richard has the privilege of leading a troop of trainers, facilitators, coaches and consultants who have helped thousands of individuals and teams to be have greater impact, confidence and clarity in their work.
The 100th Monkey’s story began in 2012, when Richard retrained as a facilitator and coach, after a prolific career as a news reporter at the Daily Telegraph and London Evening Standard.
He designed a series of communication skills workshops and programmes, which pioneer a data-led approach to learning (putting science behind the art of communication), and draw on Richard’s experience of 20 years in journalism, complemented with principles of performance, neuroscience and psychology, to create a practical package of tools to enhance individuals’ clarity and confidence.
The training receives industry-leading feedback. On average 9/10 delegates rate the 100th Monkey’s flagship courses in presentation skills and media training as 5*, with frequent and humbling praise describing it as “life-changing” and “career highlight” training.
Question & Answer
Who are you?
Son of incredible musicians and teachers, husband to an extraordinary wife, father of wonderful children, orchestrator of a brilliant band at the top of their game. And affectionate user of adjectives
Greatest strength?
Optimism - "proceed as if success is inevitable"
Biggest weakness?
Over optimism, particularly when it comes to the number of hours in the day
Coffee order
Nespresso tells me I am one of its 'ambassadors', which I took to mean I'm like George Clooney. But it turns out it's just a way to label my addiction
Favourite part of the job?
Instilling confidence in others
Tell us two truth's and a lie about yourself
1. My dad played with the Beatles on the Sgt Peppers album 2. We named our son Elvis. 3. I met Queen Elizabeth II and invited her to our wedding (she didn't come)
Proudest moment
100th Monkey was my first foray outside of journalism and started only with the ambition of keeping three babies in nappies. I'm proud to say it's surpassed all expectations. There was a moment recently at a team social when I looked around the table at 10-or-so of us, and felt an incredible pinch of pride at what together we've built
Joanna Edwards
Co-Founder & Director
As founding partner and leader of the 100th Monkey’s thriving team effectiveness troop, Joanna is highly sought-after by emerging leaders, established leaders and industry-leading teams. She has developed a four-pillar model for high performing teams, and designed and delivered hundreds of programmes, offsites and workshops to help leaders sharpen and articulate their thinking, and teams to be more productive, satisfied and happy.
Joanna has honed her skills through 20+ years’ experience as a consultant, facilitator, trainer and coach.
Starting out in corporate communications for Biotech company, Acambis, Joanna went on the become an award-winning communications consultant, working in various agencies and supporting clients ranging from GSK, Sanofi, Eli Lilly and Novartis to Weetabix, Jaguar Landrover and the Department of Health.
As part of The 100th Monkey team, Joanna has led training and team development programmes across multiple sectors, including UK Government departments, leading pharmaceutical organisations, counter terrorism teams and innovators in the worlds of aerospace and energy.
Her greatest skills are as a strategic thinker, visual storyteller and facilitator.
Question & Answer
Who are you?
Daughter to an Irishman and a Brummie, wife to the king of optimism and mother to three amazing kids – I love film, Bristol, fun, family, friends and of course, The 100th Monkey
What's your role?
Co-founder, chief puzzle solver and strategist, working closely with leaders to help them sharpen and articulate their thinking, and teams to help them be more productive, satisfied and happy
So what do you actually spend your day doing?
I spend lots of my time talking! To clients - to help really understand what they are wanting to achieve through our support, sharing ideas and designs for programmes and sessions, and reviewing the impact our work is having. Also to our team - collaborating, co-ordinating and coaching. Amongst all the talking, I like to carve out space and time to think deeply about the briefs we are working on – I pride myself on our work being insightful, creative and beyond expectation – this requires focused brainpower.
Greatest strength?
To be able to see the big picture and how everything pieces together quickly, and enable others to see it too through simplification, visualisation and speaking their language
Biggest weakness?
My ‘go hard or go home’ approach to nights out
Favourite part of the job?
Supporting people to shine – helping them to achieve their aspirations and be proud of how they do it
Tell us two truths and a lie about yourself
1. I moved to Brazil to dance the Samba in the Rio Carnival 2. I met my husband on a week-long, no food retreat 3. As a child, I competed nationally as a synchronised swimmer
Richard EDWARDS
Founder & Managing Director
At the helm of a thriving business, Richard has the privilege of leading a troop of trainers, facilitators, coaches and consultants who have helped thousands of individuals and teams to be have greater impact, confidence and clarity in their work.
The 100th Monkey’s story began in 2012, when Richard retrained as a facilitator and coach, after a prolific career as a news reporter at the Daily Telegraph and London Evening Standard.
He designed a series of communication skills workshops and programmes, which pioneer a data-led approach to learning (putting science behind the art of communication), and draw on Richard’s experience of 20 years in journalism, complemented with principles of performance, neuroscience and psychology, to create a practical package of tools to enhance individuals’ clarity and confidence.
The training receives industry-leading feedback. On average 9/10 delegates rate the 100th Monkey’s flagship courses in presentation skills and media training as 5*, with frequent and humbling praise describing it as “life-changing” and “career highlight” training.
Question & Answer
Who are you?
Son of incredible musicians and teachers, husband to an extraordinary wife, father of wonderful children, orchestrator of a brilliant band at the top of their game. And affectionate user of adjectives
Greatest strength?
Optimism - "proceed as if success is inevitable"
Biggest weakness?
Over optimism, particularly when it comes to the number of hours in the day
Coffee order
Nespresso tells me I am one of its 'ambassadors', which I took to mean I'm like George Clooney. But it turns out it's just a way to label my addiction
Favourite part of the job?
Instilling confidence in others
Tell us two truth's and a lie about yourself
1. My dad played with the Beatles on the Sgt Peppers album 2. We named our son Elvis. 3. I met Queen Elizabeth II and invited her to our wedding (she didn't come)
Proudest moment
100th Monkey was my first foray outside of journalism and started only with the ambition of keeping three babies in nappies. I'm proud to say it's surpassed all expectations. There was a moment recently at a team social when I looked around the table at 10-or-so of us, and felt an incredible pinch of pride at what together we've built
Joanna Edwards
Co-Founder & Director
As founding partner and leader of the 100th Monkey’s thriving team effectiveness troop, Joanna is highly sought-after by emerging leaders, established leaders and industry-leading teams. She has developed a four-pillar model for high performing teams, and designed and delivered hundreds of programmes, offsites and workshops to help leaders sharpen and articulate their thinking, and teams to be more productive, satisfied and happy.
Joanna has honed her skills through 20+ years’ experience as a consultant, facilitator, trainer and coach.
Starting out in corporate communications for Biotech company, Acambis, Joanna went on the become an award-winning communications consultant, working in various agencies and supporting clients ranging from GSK, Sanofi, Eli Lilly and Novartis to Weetabix, Jaguar Landrover and the Department of Health.
As part of The 100th Monkey team, Joanna has led training and team development programmes across multiple sectors, including UK Government departments, leading pharmaceutical organisations, counter terrorism teams and innovators in the worlds of aerospace and energy.
Her greatest skills are as a strategic thinker, visual storyteller and facilitator.
Question & Answer
Who are you?
Daughter to an Irishman and a Brummie, wife to the king of optimism and mother to three amazing kids – I love film, Bristol, fun, family, friends and of course, The 100th Monkey
What's your role?
Co-founder, chief puzzle solver and strategist, working closely with leaders to help them sharpen and articulate their thinking, and teams to help them be more productive, satisfied and happy
So what do you actually spend your day doing?
I spend lots of my time talking! To clients - to help really understand what they are wanting to achieve through our support, sharing ideas and designs for programmes and sessions, and reviewing the impact our work is having. Also to our team - collaborating, co-ordinating and coaching. Amongst all the talking, I like to carve out space and time to think deeply about the briefs we are working on – I pride myself on our work being insightful, creative and beyond expectation – this requires focused brainpower.
Greatest strength?
To be able to see the big picture and how everything pieces together quickly, and enable others to see it too through simplification, visualisation and speaking their language
Biggest weakness?
My ‘go hard or go home’ approach to nights out
Favourite part of the job?
Supporting people to shine – helping them to achieve their aspirations and be proud of how they do it
Tell us two truths and a lie about yourself
1. I moved to Brazil to dance the Samba in the Rio Carnival 2. I met my husband on a week-long, no food retreat 3. As a child, I competed nationally as a synchronised swimmer
Ann HUGHES
Director
Ann has worked for 20 years advising big pharma on their corporate and brand messaging as well as delivering global launch campaigns. Now she is using that expertise on a more personal level, coaching individuals and teams to be more effective in their communications. Delivering training that calls on her consulting background and combines with her interest in psychology and theatre, she’s never been more passionate about her work.
Question & Answer
Who are you?
An American ex-pat in Dorset, a twin mum, avid reader, yogi and occasional quiz master/stand-up comedian (at PTA events..)
What's your role?
I’m a Director on the Personal Effectiveness side of the business, which means I deliver training and help add training talent to our network. And since I love making connections and solving problems, I’m always meeting new people to see if our training is a good solution to some of the challenges they face.
So what do you actually spend your day doing?
Some days I’ll be entirely dedicated to training, other days I’ll be upskilling new trainers or meeting with potential clients to understand the skills gaps their trying to solve. Or I’ll be drafted into the Team Effectiveness side of things to help design and facilitate client meetings.
Greatest strength?
Helping people see the best in themselves.
Recent work highlight?
Watching one of our Personal Effectiveness delegates in action – standing up at a big meeting in front of 100+ people to present naturally and eloquently, and also asking articulate, challenging questions. Both feats that I know personally terrify her, or at least they did before our training!
One of my biggest influences is…
My mom. And Woody Allen movies.
Alita Buttress
Director & Head of Media Training
Alita is a former BBC News editor and self-proclaimed ‘news junkie’ with 17 years’ experience across national broadcast, print and digital. She has since transitioned into Executive Leadership coaching, preparing CEOs and senior leaders for high-stakes conversations. As an experienced trainer, Alita specialises in supporting businesses with their most challenging internal and external communication moments. Alita brings her abundance of energy to The 100th Monkey team, super-charging any training session with her supportive feedback and fascinating anecdotes of lessons learned in busy newsrooms.
Question & Answer
Who are you?
A Midlands native who has lived in London for 20 years. I’m a mum and a former journalist and TV editor who is still a complete news junkie. In my spare time you’ll find me with my nose in a book or planning holidays
What's your role?
I’m a director on the Personal Effectiveness side of the business and lead our media training work which involves planning and delivering sessions for our clients
So what do you actually spend your day doing?
Some days I’ll be planning for upcoming training, reading in on client issues and having briefing calls to discuss future work or new business. Other days I’ll be delivering training either face-to-face or virtually. In between, I spend time planning with our brilliant team and supporting on projects across the business
Greatest strength?
I can survive on very little sleep and always have lots of energy!
Favourite part of the job?
Showing people their split screen ‘before and after’ videos during our media training or Personal Effectiveness courses. The progress people make in a short space of time using our toolkits is always so inspiring. It’s the best part of my day!
Favourite TedTalk?
Shonda Rimes, 'My year of saying yes to everything'
One of my biggest influences is…
The Maya Angelou poem, ‘Still I Rise'
CAT SHERIDAN
Head of Operations
Cat’s 13 years of experience working closely with founders and CEOs of some of London’s most successful communications agencies meant she was poised to expertly navigate 100th Monkey’s rise from start-up to established business.
No detail is too small, no diary too chaotic – order follows in her charming Brummy-accented wake.
Question & Answer
Who are you?
• A hound fanatic with a love for growing my own veg, living the good life and dancing to northern soul!
What's your role?
Operations manager
So what do you actually spend your day doing?
A variety of things! From managing the money, the diaries, the team, new client enquires, and everything in between
Coffee order
Flat white/turmeric tea post 2pm
Best part of the job?
The people. We are a small, supportive and friendly bunch who encourage each other to be the best
I can't put down...
Marooned with Ed Stafford. Picking up tips in case I ever get stranded in the jungle
Last gig?
The Specials at my favourite little festival in Moseley Park, Birmingham
One of my biggest influences is...
Margaret Atwood. The depth and breadth of her writing amazes me, a true feminist icon
Harriet Longden
Senior Consultant
Harriet brings over 20 years of healthcare communications expertise to her role with 100th Monkey, and has dabbled in every disease area you could name. She loves identifying nuggets of insight to unlock a strategic challenge, and always uncovers that special something to win a pitch or sprinkle magic on a client brief.
Question & Answer
Who are you?
An aspiring chef, seasoned meditator, Pilates junkie, coffee fanatic, newly-wed and mum
So what do you actually spend your day doing?
Thinking up creative ways that teams can come together to enrich outcomes – whether through a keynote speaker painting an inspiring picture of future possibilities or designing team games to define a long-term vision and strategy
Greatest strength
Finding order in chaos
Biggest weakness
Custard donuts
Favourite part of the job?
Working with the superstars on the team, some of the brightest minds in the industry
Favourite Ted Talk?
Jill Bolte Taylor, My Stroke of Insight
Podcast I can't put down...
The Rest is History - it distils the entirety of human history into 50-minute chunks
Last gig?
29 Fingers at a pub in London (my second favourite party band of all time)
One of my biggest influences
My yoga teacher and friend, Angus Ford-Robertson
LAURA GOOD
Senior Consultant
Laura grew up in healthcare communications, spending 15 years working in senior and strategic consulting, corporate communications, brand and patient awareness campaigns. She was a member of the leadership team at the same London agency where many members of The 100th Monkey team first met.
Taking what she calls a ‘break’ to dedicate time for her kids and pursue social care interests, she applied her leadership skills to the school PTA and volunteering and was busier than ever.
Returning to agency life has actually been a bit of a holiday by comparison – no wonder she relishes ‘being onsite’.
Question & Answer
Who are you?
Busy London mum with two children, avid concert-goer, Chair of the PTA and volunteer at Homestart
So what do you actually spend your day doing?
Working collaboratively with our lovely team to create meaningful programmes that help our clients to work well together and meet their goals. Anything from structuring agendas and creating content for meetings, to creating team charters that better define how teams work together on a daily basis
Greatest strength
I'm a people person – I love getting to know all our clients, and especially being with them face-to-face for meetings and events
Biggest weakness
Staying up late to binge watch good TV
Two truths and a lie
1. I was born on the same day as Kate Hudson. 2. I am a grade 5 violinist. 3. I once spent the evening drinking vodka redbulls with Zowie Bowie
Proudest moment of the last year?
Returning to paid work after being a stay at home mum for a while - and (I think) doing quite a good job at it
Last gig?
Bombay Bicycle Club in Crystal Palace Park. Incredible!
DAN GREGORY
Senior Project Planner & Manager
Dan is a first-class scientist turned highly-reviewed business strategist and facilitator. Joining the Monkey team fresh faced from university, Dan has been earning his stripes ever since, giving his all to his work. You might partner with Dan on either side of the Personal and Team Effectiveness sides of the business, but one thing will remain the same; his dedication to the highest quality of work for his clients.
Question & Answer
Who are you?
A proud Bristolian who spends most of his time eating food in the home city he loves. Occasional rugby player/paddleboard enthusiast
What's your role?
Senior Project Planner & Manager on the Team Effectiveness side of the business. Don’t let my baby face fool you; I am in fact one of the longer-standing members of the team
Greatest strength
My determination to find creative solutions to complex problems
Biggest weakness
Inability to function without caffeine
I can't put down...
Whatever People Say I Am, That’s What I’m Not by the Arctic Monkeys
Two truths, one lie
1. I made the front page by nearly being born in the frozen food aisle of our local supermarket 2. A family holiday to America was cut short due to an engine explosion, causing our plane to take evasive action over the North Sea 3. During my short stint in catering, I spilled a glass of red wine on Ed Sheeran
One of my biggest influences is...
My mum; both as my best friend and life coach
Clare Roberts
Project Planner & Manager
Clare brings a blend of account management, project management, training, communications, and writing skills to The 100th Monkey troop. With her positive, proactive approach, she thrives on transforming ideas into tangible results that are expertly managed and executed.
Question & Answer
Who are you?
An outdoor-loving seaside dweller with an optimistic outlook on life. I’m a former English teacher and a fan of literature, writing and open-air theatre. A recent love is gardening, at which I’m ‘helped’ by my two daughters. To (almost) quote Shakespeare: ‘though they be but little, they are fierce!’
What's your role?
Project Planner and Manager on the Team Effectiveness side of the business.
What do you actually spend your day doing?
Action planning, writing, plus lots of coordination across our team and clients to bring our projects and events together. Every day is different!
Greatest strengths?
Positive communication and liaison: I love working with others to achieve a common goal. I pay close attention and think about every detail, right down to who is bringing the pens!
Favourite part of the job?
The fact I can draw on the skills I’ve gained in my career to date and use them towards a new role.
Favourite ice breaker?
Depending on the crowd…. ‘Find someone who…’, childhood ambitions (mine was to be a fashion designer!)
Favourite TedTalk?
Matthew Winkler: What Makes a Hero? – technically a mini lesson, but don’t let that put you off! It’s all about how classic stories all essentially follow the same trajectory and are variations on a theme. I still find this totally fascinating and it applies to so many contexts: books, films, and of course talks and meetings too. A great story is a great story, wherever you are.
Last gig I attended?
Blur at Eastbourne Winter Gardens
Lay HINE
Senior Project Assistant & Administrator
Lay has over 10 years’ experience working in marketing, coordination and event management roles across healthcare and charitable organisations.
She excels at managing many different moving parts simultaneously, key skills that are regularly tested by the Monkey team who are often here, there and everywhere delivering training and facilitating meetings all at once.
Question & Answer
Who are you?
Lover of frozen cocktails, meticulous event organiser, mother of two daughters, avid follower of the Royal Family
What's your role?
Team administrator
So what do you actually spend your day doing?
Supporting the team on both sides of the business by pulling together pre-work summaries, creating meeting content, perfecting slide decks, sorting all the logistics for our many meetings and trainings which run simultaneously, sending delegate follow-up emails and making sure the right people are in the right place at the right time
Greatest strength?
Calm under pressure
Two truths and a lie
1. I am one of six children 2. My favourite drink is Ovaltine 3. I don’t understand the hype with cheese
Favourite ice breaker
What would you do if you have £1 million?
The podcast I can't put down
Parenting Hell with Rob Beckett and Josh Widdicombe
Proudest moment of the last year?
Seeing my girls learn to ride their bikes!
Richard Penney
Team Associate
Richard is one of the newer members of The 100th Monkey team, having joined in the spring of 2023. Before this, he spent three years doing research at a global health charity, after studying biology and chemistry at university.
Question & Answer
Who are you?
A Herefordshire native and lover of the great outdoors, whether that’s hiking, cycling or skiing; my other interests include singing and pub quizzes.
What's your role?
Team Associate, mainly working on the Team Effectiveness side of things.
What do you actually spend your day doing?
My days are pretty varied, but in general my time is spent liaising with our clients and ensuring their needs are met, as well as beautifying powerpoints and making spreadsheets (the more complex the better!)
Greatest strength and weakness?
I’m pretty unflappable and keep a cool head in high-pressure situations. Weakness: my handwriting is fairly atrocious.
The series I can't put down is...
The Last of Us – initially I was sceptical (after all, it is based on a video game), but have been blown away by this outstanding series.
Tell us two truths and a lie about yourself
1. I once sang in a concert attended by the King and Queen of Belgium 2. I am distantly related, by marriage, to Diego Maradona 3. I nearly died of malaria at the age of three
Proudest moment of the last year?
Back when working for a global health charity, I became a published co-author of five academic papers (on access to medical diagnostics across Africa).
Last gig I attended?
Alt-J – twice in one week.
One of my biggest influences is:
I’m the youngest of four, and my siblings have always provided me with a blueprint of how to 'do life' well.
Hannah Macgregor
Senior Consultant
Having studied psychology at university, Hannah has a strong foundation in the science and theory that drives human behaviour, and applies these insights into her work to improve both team and individual effectiveness. She has worked in the Pharma industry for 20 years and has a wealth of experience in market research, communications, senior and strategic consulting and team building.
Question & Answer
Who are you?
A busy, working mum of three young children. Originally from the UK, but most recently have been living in Paris, Berlin and Basel.
Greatest strength?
An uncanny ability to remember all the details, whilst still being able to simplify things and get stuff done!
Coffee order?
Flat white or cappuccino (without cocoa powder).
Favourite part of the job?
Building great relationships with clients and really feeling an extension of their team.
Favourite ice breaker?
A giant game of rock, paper, scissors.
Recent work highlight?
Being back onsite and delivering workshops after my 3rd maternity leave.
Proudest moment of the last year?
Seeing my children deliver presentations (in German and on camera!) to their class.
Last gig I attended?
Mika - at a boutique music festival (Baloise Sessions) in Basel.
Nick Clark Windo
Associate Trainer
Nick has been working at the intersection of the communications and creative industries for twenty years, running parallel careers as a communications coach and trainer, novelist and independent film producer.
As a coach and trainer, Nick has worked across multiple sectors helping graduates to Global CEOs communicate, influence and think more clearly.
Nick works with clarity, passion and humour to understand a client’s needs and deliver tailored training with simple, tangible and relevant tools.
Question & Answer
Who are you?
I’ve been working as a communications coach for nearly twenty years. I also write novels (The Feed was turned into an Amazon/Virgin Media TV series) and very occasionally produce independent films (Dead In A Week (or your money back) starred Tom Wilkinson, had music by Guy Garvey and was a surprise top ten hit in Italy!). That aside, ‘Who am I?’ feels like quite a big question, to be honest. Please ask me again in a couple of decades!
What do you spend your day doing?
I deliver Personal Effectiveness courses including our flagship Impact and Influence programmes.
Greatest strength?
Connecting ideas. Sometimes it’s conscious, more often it’s my brain doing things in the background; a kind of mental mulching. Thank you, brain.
Biggest weakness?
An entirely unspecific yet generally pervasive fear of failure. It gets in the way.
Coffee order?
A double espresso, please. Preferably before breakfast, and never after 3pm.
Two truths and a lie…
1. I was once nearly blown up with dynamite (accidentally) 2. I was in a music video for the band Elbow 3. I have touched Jay-Z
Favourite ice breaker?
I keep misreading this question as my favourite ice cream. Without a doubt it’s mint choc chip!
Recent work highlight?
I recently worked with a team facing multiple challenges out of their control, which were making them turn on each other. Everyone was scared. After a lot of hard work, risk-taking and some big, confident, vulnerability, they’re all now passionate advocates of each other - they’re strong.
Proudest moment of the last year?
Both my kids are at the stage where they’re developing into proper people: there are constant moments of pride and heartbreak.
Favourite TedTalk?
I mean…anything by Brené Brown?
The series/podcast/book/album I can’t put down is…
Nothing has succeeded Succession. I’m still in mourning.
Last gig I attended?
I have tickets to see Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds soon. It’s been a long time coming, with previous gigs I’ve had tickets for being cancelled or missed. So this one, if it actually happens, is due to be momentous.
One of my biggest influences is…
Reading, reading, reading.
Tash Harvey
Associate Trainer
Tash is a bilingual leadership coach and trainer with a passion for people and their development. She relishes helping individuals to become more effective communicators and leaders.
Tash has worked in Executive Leadership roles across aerospace, defence, automotive and professional services sectors including 20 years in Paris leading communications for French-based global companies.
Tash focuses on developing communication skills that enable her to connect with others, to influence and have greater impact.
She is an NLP and PCC certified coach who loves all things Greece, travelling and music.
Question & Answer
Who are you?
A Midlands girl at heart, I spent most of my adult life in France, returning to the UK only a few years ago. Mum to a teenager, partner to a very direct American, besties with the same group of brummies I grew up with, I’m a Francophile, book lover, walks-in-nature fanatic, and fur-baby devotee.
What do you spend your day doing?
I co-deliver Effectiveness courses including our flagship Impact and Influence programmes.
Greatest strength?
My greatest strength is my ability to ask the right questions and to really listen – with my ears, eyes and heart! It’s amazing how much you can ‘hear’ in what’s not being said. It helps me form a good understanding of what’s going on in any given situation or interaction in a relatively short time.
Coffee order?
Depends on the morning: double espresso or Nescafé, white with one sugar.
Favourite part of the job?
Seeing people walk away from a coaching or training session feeling confident about who they are and what they can achieve.
Tell us two truths and a lie about yourself…
1. I love cold water swimming and am particularly fond of a winter dip in Cornwall 2. I met & hosted Emmanuel Macron on an industrial site visit a year before he became President of France 3. I worked as a club promoter in Corfu in the 90’s and danced in the street every night for 3 months.
Favourite ice breaker?
Favourite karaoke song or dream job if you weren’t doing this one.
Recent work highlight?
Dancing in the bathroom of a restaurant (which had a disco ball and music!) in Breda after an incredible day’s training with the Monkeys!
Favourite TedTalk?
Amy Cuddy – Your body language may shape who you are.
The series/podcast/book/album I can’t put down is…
The Wolf Den trilogy by Elodie Harper. Focussed on the lives of women in Pompeii's lupanar (brothels). I studied ancient history at uni!
Fun fact
I’m a closet country music fan! With stories of love, loss, heartache and everyday life, for me country music taps into universal human experiences. And those stories, combined with the twang of a guitar, some amazing vocal styles and heartfelt lyrics mean I absolutely love it!
Leonie Hurrell
Associate Trainer
Leonie’s role as a coach and trainer seamlessly blends her enthusiasm and expertise in education, leadership, and cognitive science.
Leonie is a former headteacher with 15 years of senior leadership experience. She is an ILM-qualified coach and coach supervisor and works with leaders in diverse sectors, from education to IT and finance. Her innovative style, integrating insights from psychology, leadership theory, and cognitive science, equips leaders to navigate complex challenges and drive impactful change.
Leonie is passionate about people and works with individuals so they can feel empowered through supportive challenge, clarity, and humour.
Question & Answer
Who are you?
A mum of boys, former headteacher, cake-baker, caffeine addict and a lover of a long dog walk (all seasons!)
What do you spend your day doing?
I co-deliver Personal Effectiveness courses including our flagship Impact and Influence programmes.
Greatest strength?
Listening - I love to listen to people and find their stories.
Biggest weakness?
I cannot resist a jam doughnut -ever!!
Coffee order?
Flat White - simple and highly caffeinated!
Favourite part of the job?
Training and coaching people to develop - to see the greatness in them and understand how to be even better in their roles/delivery.
Recent work highlight?
Seeing new learning and insights in delegates and their delight and excitement at discovering this and want to put it into practice straight away.
Proudest moment of the last year?
Designing and building our new home.
Favourite TedTalk?
Every kid needs a champion by Rita Pierson.
The series/podcast/book/album I can’t put down is…
I love a great character and puzzles so Ludwig on the BBC is proving an addictive watch.
One of my biggest influences is…
Sir Ken Robinson, his passion for education was transformative to my thinking and leadership in schools.
Fun fact
I leave home every year to live for four weeks in a 10ft x 16ft hut on the beach with my family.
Nadia Sam-Daliri
Associate Trainer
Nadia is a former print journalist and civil servant with a decade of experience working at the very highest levels of Government. Nadia worked for three Prime Ministers between 2016 and 2021 and before working in Civil Service communications, was a print journalist for six years, including two years at The Sun.
Nadia is a passionate communications professional who blends her own experiences at the frontline of agenda-setting policies with the expert coaching methods of the 100th Monkey.
Question & Answer
Who are you?
I’m a half-Iranian former journalist-turned-civil-servant-turned-media/presentation-coach with a penchant for no-frills baking and a near obsession with news-website surfing.
What do you spend your day doing?
I deliver Media Training and Personal Effectiveness courses including our flagship Impact and Influence programmes. As an experienced trainer I draw on my extensive experience in public sector communications and news media to coach organisations during their most high-profile launches and challenges. I work with teams and individuals at all levels to help you present with poise and clarity, confidently approach media interviews, and develop core communication skills.
Greatest strength?
Flexibility. Not literally (although I’m told I’ve got quite open shoulders for a pretty amateur yogi). Instead, the increasing ability to accept as I get older that barely any plans fully go to plan.
Biggest weakness?
Indulgently moaning about things of no real importance to those I love the most. And never learning my lesson that a 12-minute walk to the train station cannot be completed in four-and-a-half-minutes.
Coffee order?
Cappucino, no chocolate.
Favourite part of the job?
Meeting interesting people from all walks of life and getting to learn a bit about them.
Tell us two truths and a lie about yourself…
1. I once simultaneously interviewed Boris Johnson and David Haye in a boxing ring. 2. I have close family living on five continents. 3. I was a junior Scrabble champion.
Recent work highlight?
Watching as a delegate on our Impact and Influence course progressed from a ball of nerves at the start of the day, to giving a presentation brimming with warmth and confidence at the end of it. She’s the perfect example of why what we do matters.
Proudest moment of the last year?
My three-year-old son spontaneously telling me I’m the best mummy in the whole world, without requesting any sugary treats or Spiderman-themed toys in the process.
The series/podcast/book/album I can’t put down is…
Dr Chatterjee’s Feel Better, Live More podcast. I’ve learnt more about gut health, swerving dementia and the importance of squatting than I ever knew possible.
Last gig I attended?
The National at Crystal Palace. I had the privilege of propping up Matt Berninger’s underarm as he crowd-surfed (I didn’t actually see him though, as I was trapped under said armpit) and loved every minute.
One of my biggest influences is…
I can’t name just one! Muhammad Ali and Maya Angelou, and their persuasive, stirring and mesmerising way with words. Early-90s Madonna who brought my sister and I endless joy as we mimicked the dance routines from our prized Immaculate Collection video. My Mum with her never-ending capacity for kindness, and my Dad with his wide intellect and mickey-taking stories that never fail to win a laugh, regardless of how immature they are.
Fun fact
I have an extra bone in my foot that I only found out about a couple of years ago!
Christine Grew
Associate Trainer
Christine is a scientist by training and has worked in the pharmaceutical industry for 20 years specialising in drug discovery, global clinical research and regulatory affairs.
Christine is an experienced coach, trainer and facilitator and is a guest speaker in the UK, US and Middle East.
She is a certified NLP coach and practitioner.
Christine brings her high-energy, entertaining and motivational personality as well as a breadth of industry experience to The 100th Monkey.
Question & Answer
Who are you?
A Chinglish Brummie now living in the London suburbs juggling work, family, friends and fun. They say it takes a village to raise a child, so make that several villages and a vineyard for me to raise my three.
So, what do you actually spend your day doing?
I have, what I hear is termed, a ‘portfolio career’. I support the development of new medicines in a number of different capacities, with expertise in supporting pharma and biotech innovators navigate the regulatory environment. My main engagements are in regulatory affairs and business development in the life sciences sector, and I deliver technical and non-technical training. I also love supporting life science professionals with coaching and mentoring and of course, coaching and facilitating 100th Monkey delegates!
Greatest strength?
My strength. I’m really very strong and can lift heavy weights.
Two truths and a lie
1. The film ‘Crazy Rich Asians’ was based on my family 2. I often do the worm/caterpillar on the dance floor 3. I ran a marathon with 23 wine tasting stops
Favourite ice breaker
What would you sing in Karaoke?
Last gig I attended?
A friend & I ended up with tickets to see Nathaniel Rateliff. We’d never heard of him before we went and didn’t realise we should have worn a Stetson and a beard. I’ll do anything for a friend.
One of my biggest influences is…
The saying ‘Don’t put off till tomorrow what you can do today’…which is why I go to bed very late.
Lucinda Bowden
Associate Trainer
Lucinda has a background in journalism and has produced and presented programmes for BBC, Sky News, ITN and Global. She has prepared clients for live broadcasts, podcasts, panel presentations and speaking engagements across a varied career as a broadcaster, executive producer, media trainer and presentation skills coach.
Lucinda is a nature lover, prolific traveller, feng shui consultant and an elite sportswoman who is happiest messing about in boats!
Question & Answer
What do you spend your day doing?
I co-deliver Personal Effectiveness courses including our flagship Impact and Influence programmes.
Greatest strength?
Resilience and attention to detail.
Favourite part of the job?
Empowering greater confidence and self-belief in others and helping people to shine their light. We are all designed to thrive and playing a small part in facilitating personal growth in others brings me so much joy and drives me to seek what I can do for someone else each day.
Favourite Podcasts
High Performance with Jake Humphrey and Damian Hughes and The MidPoint with Gabby Logan
Nick Clark Windo
Associate Trainer
Nick has been working at the intersection of the communications and creative industries for twenty years, running parallel careers as a communications coach and trainer, novelist and independent film producer.
As a coach and trainer, Nick has worked across multiple sectors helping graduates to Global CEOs communicate, influence and think more clearly.
Nick works with clarity, passion and humour to understand a client’s needs and deliver tailored training with simple, tangible and relevant tools.
Question & Answer
Who are you?
I’ve been working as a communications coach for nearly twenty years. I also write novels (The Feed was turned into an Amazon/Virgin Media TV series) and very occasionally produce independent films (Dead In A Week (or your money back) starred Tom Wilkinson, had music by Guy Garvey and was a surprise top ten hit in Italy!). That aside, ‘Who am I?’ feels like quite a big question, to be honest. Please ask me again in a couple of decades!
What do you spend your day doing?
I deliver Personal Effectiveness courses including our flagship Impact and Influence programmes.
Greatest strength?
Connecting ideas. Sometimes it’s conscious, more often it’s my brain doing things in the background; a kind of mental mulching. Thank you, brain.
Biggest weakness?
An entirely unspecific yet generally pervasive fear of failure. It gets in the way.
Coffee order?
A double espresso, please. Preferably before breakfast, and never after 3pm.
Two truths and a lie…
1. I was once nearly blown up with dynamite (accidentally) 2. I was in a music video for the band Elbow 3. I have touched Jay-Z
Favourite ice breaker?
I keep misreading this question as my favourite ice cream. Without a doubt it’s mint choc chip!
Recent work highlight?
I recently worked with a team facing multiple challenges out of their control, which were making them turn on each other. Everyone was scared. After a lot of hard work, risk-taking and some big, confident, vulnerability, they’re all now passionate advocates of each other - they’re strong.
Proudest moment of the last year?
Both my kids are at the stage where they’re developing into proper people: there are constant moments of pride and heartbreak.
Favourite TedTalk?
I mean…anything by Brené Brown?
The series/podcast/book/album I can’t put down is…
Nothing has succeeded Succession. I’m still in mourning.
Last gig I attended?
I have tickets to see Nick Cave and the Bad Seeds soon. It’s been a long time coming, with previous gigs I’ve had tickets for being cancelled or missed. So this one, if it actually happens, is due to be momentous.
One of my biggest influences is…
Reading, reading, reading.
Tash Harvey
Associate Trainer
Tash is a bilingual leadership coach and trainer with a passion for people and their development. She relishes helping individuals to become more effective communicators and leaders.
Tash has worked in Executive Leadership roles across aerospace, defence, automotive and professional services sectors including 20 years in Paris leading communications for French-based global companies.
Tash focuses on developing communication skills that enable her to connect with others, to influence and have greater impact.
She is an NLP and PCC certified coach who loves all things Greece, travelling and music.
Question & Answer
Who are you?
A Midlands girl at heart, I spent most of my adult life in France, returning to the UK only a few years ago. Mum to a teenager, partner to a very direct American, besties with the same group of brummies I grew up with, I’m a Francophile, book lover, walks-in-nature fanatic, and fur-baby devotee.
What do you spend your day doing?
I co-deliver Effectiveness courses including our flagship Impact and Influence programmes.
Greatest strength?
My greatest strength is my ability to ask the right questions and to really listen – with my ears, eyes and heart! It’s amazing how much you can ‘hear’ in what’s not being said. It helps me form a good understanding of what’s going on in any given situation or interaction in a relatively short time.
Coffee order?
Depends on the morning: double espresso or Nescafé, white with one sugar.
Favourite part of the job?
Seeing people walk away from a coaching or training session feeling confident about who they are and what they can achieve.
Tell us two truths and a lie about yourself…
1. I love cold water swimming and am particularly fond of a winter dip in Cornwall 2. I met & hosted Emmanuel Macron on an industrial site visit a year before he became President of France 3. I worked as a club promoter in Corfu in the 90’s and danced in the street every night for 3 months.
Favourite ice breaker?
Favourite karaoke song or dream job if you weren’t doing this one.
Recent work highlight?
Dancing in the bathroom of a restaurant (which had a disco ball and music!) in Breda after an incredible day’s training with the Monkeys!
Favourite TedTalk?
Amy Cuddy – Your body language may shape who you are.
The series/podcast/book/album I can’t put down is…
The Wolf Den trilogy by Elodie Harper. Focussed on the lives of women in Pompeii's lupanar (brothels). I studied ancient history at uni!
Fun fact
I’m a closet country music fan! With stories of love, loss, heartache and everyday life, for me country music taps into universal human experiences. And those stories, combined with the twang of a guitar, some amazing vocal styles and heartfelt lyrics mean I absolutely love it!
Leonie Hurrell
Associate Trainer
Leonie’s role as a coach and trainer seamlessly blends her enthusiasm and expertise in education, leadership, and cognitive science.
Leonie is a former headteacher with 15 years of senior leadership experience. She is an ILM-qualified coach and coach supervisor and works with leaders in diverse sectors, from education to IT and finance. Her innovative style, integrating insights from psychology, leadership theory, and cognitive science, equips leaders to navigate complex challenges and drive impactful change.
Leonie is passionate about people and works with individuals so they can feel empowered through supportive challenge, clarity, and humour.
Question & Answer
Who are you?
A mum of boys, former headteacher, cake-baker, caffeine addict and a lover of a long dog walk (all seasons!)
What do you spend your day doing?
I co-deliver Personal Effectiveness courses including our flagship Impact and Influence programmes.
Greatest strength?
Listening - I love to listen to people and find their stories.
Biggest weakness?
I cannot resist a jam doughnut -ever!!
Coffee order?
Flat White - simple and highly caffeinated!
Favourite part of the job?
Training and coaching people to develop - to see the greatness in them and understand how to be even better in their roles/delivery.
Recent work highlight?
Seeing new learning and insights in delegates and their delight and excitement at discovering this and want to put it into practice straight away.
Proudest moment of the last year?
Designing and building our new home.
Favourite TedTalk?
Every kid needs a champion by Rita Pierson.
The series/podcast/book/album I can’t put down is…
I love a great character and puzzles so Ludwig on the BBC is proving an addictive watch.
One of my biggest influences is…
Sir Ken Robinson, his passion for education was transformative to my thinking and leadership in schools.
Fun fact
I leave home every year to live for four weeks in a 10ft x 16ft hut on the beach with my family.
Nadia Sam-Daliri
Associate Trainer
Nadia is a former print journalist and civil servant with a decade of experience working at the very highest levels of Government. Nadia worked for three Prime Ministers between 2016 and 2021 and before working in Civil Service communications, was a print journalist for six years, including two years at The Sun.
Nadia is a passionate communications professional who blends her own experiences at the frontline of agenda-setting policies with the expert coaching methods of the 100th Monkey.
Question & Answer
Who are you?
I’m a half-Iranian former journalist-turned-civil-servant-turned-media/presentation-coach with a penchant for no-frills baking and a near obsession with news-website surfing.
What do you spend your day doing?
I deliver Media Training and Personal Effectiveness courses including our flagship Impact and Influence programmes. As an experienced trainer I draw on my extensive experience in public sector communications and news media to coach organisations during their most high-profile launches and challenges. I work with teams and individuals at all levels to help you present with poise and clarity, confidently approach media interviews, and develop core communication skills.
Greatest strength?
Flexibility. Not literally (although I’m told I’ve got quite open shoulders for a pretty amateur yogi). Instead, the increasing ability to accept as I get older that barely any plans fully go to plan.
Biggest weakness?
Indulgently moaning about things of no real importance to those I love the most. And never learning my lesson that a 12-minute walk to the train station cannot be completed in four-and-a-half-minutes.
Coffee order?
Cappucino, no chocolate.
Favourite part of the job?
Meeting interesting people from all walks of life and getting to learn a bit about them.
Tell us two truths and a lie about yourself…
1. I once simultaneously interviewed Boris Johnson and David Haye in a boxing ring. 2. I have close family living on five continents. 3. I was a junior Scrabble champion.
Recent work highlight?
Watching as a delegate on our Impact and Influence course progressed from a ball of nerves at the start of the day, to giving a presentation brimming with warmth and confidence at the end of it. She’s the perfect example of why what we do matters.
Proudest moment of the last year?
My three-year-old son spontaneously telling me I’m the best mummy in the whole world, without requesting any sugary treats or Spiderman-themed toys in the process.
The series/podcast/book/album I can’t put down is…
Dr Chatterjee’s Feel Better, Live More podcast. I’ve learnt more about gut health, swerving dementia and the importance of squatting than I ever knew possible.
Last gig I attended?
The National at Crystal Palace. I had the privilege of propping up Matt Berninger’s underarm as he crowd-surfed (I didn’t actually see him though, as I was trapped under said armpit) and loved every minute.
One of my biggest influences is…
I can’t name just one! Muhammad Ali and Maya Angelou, and their persuasive, stirring and mesmerising way with words. Early-90s Madonna who brought my sister and I endless joy as we mimicked the dance routines from our prized Immaculate Collection video. My Mum with her never-ending capacity for kindness, and my Dad with his wide intellect and mickey-taking stories that never fail to win a laugh, regardless of how immature they are.
Fun fact
I have an extra bone in my foot that I only found out about a couple of years ago!
Christine Grew
Associate Trainer
Christine is a scientist by training and has worked in the pharmaceutical industry for 20 years specialising in drug discovery, global clinical research and regulatory affairs.
Christine is an experienced coach, trainer and facilitator and is a guest speaker in the UK, US and Middle East.
She is a certified NLP coach and practitioner.
Christine brings her high-energy, entertaining and motivational personality as well as a breadth of industry experience to The 100th Monkey.
Question & Answer
Who are you?
A Chinglish Brummie now living in the London suburbs juggling work, family, friends and fun. They say it takes a village to raise a child, so make that several villages and a vineyard for me to raise my three.
So, what do you actually spend your day doing?
I have, what I hear is termed, a ‘portfolio career’. I support the development of new medicines in a number of different capacities, with expertise in supporting pharma and biotech innovators navigate the regulatory environment. My main engagements are in regulatory affairs and business development in the life sciences sector, and I deliver technical and non-technical training. I also love supporting life science professionals with coaching and mentoring and of course, coaching and facilitating 100th Monkey delegates!
Greatest strength?
My strength. I’m really very strong and can lift heavy weights.
Two truths and a lie
1. The film ‘Crazy Rich Asians’ was based on my family 2. I often do the worm/caterpillar on the dance floor 3. I ran a marathon with 23 wine tasting stops
Favourite ice breaker
What would you sing in Karaoke?
Last gig I attended?
A friend & I ended up with tickets to see Nathaniel Rateliff. We’d never heard of him before we went and didn’t realise we should have worn a Stetson and a beard. I’ll do anything for a friend.
One of my biggest influences is…
The saying ‘Don’t put off till tomorrow what you can do today’…which is why I go to bed very late.
Lucinda Bowden
Associate Trainer
Lucinda has a background in journalism and has produced and presented programmes for BBC, Sky News, ITN and Global. She has prepared clients for live broadcasts, podcasts, panel presentations and speaking engagements across a varied career as a broadcaster, executive producer, media trainer and presentation skills coach.
Lucinda is a nature lover, prolific traveller, feng shui consultant and an elite sportswoman who is happiest messing about in boats!
Question & Answer
What do you spend your day doing?
I co-deliver Personal Effectiveness courses including our flagship Impact and Influence programmes.
Greatest strength?
Resilience and attention to detail.
Favourite part of the job?
Empowering greater confidence and self-belief in others and helping people to shine their light. We are all designed to thrive and playing a small part in facilitating personal growth in others brings me so much joy and drives me to seek what I can do for someone else each day.
Favourite Podcasts
High Performance with Jake Humphrey and Damian Hughes and The MidPoint with Gabby Logan
Big on ambition, small by design
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