Unlocking the Boardroom

In this episode, Diana Markaki, CEO and Founder of the Boardroom, talks with Stuart Warner, an internationally renowned Finance Expert and author of four finance books, or as we like to refer to him… “the Finance Whisperer”! Stuart holds several non-executive positions and is particularly motivated by helping people from non-finance backgrounds to demystify financial matters. 

In today's boardroom masterclass, you will learn: 

• How to understand financial matters, even if you do not come from a finance background? 

• What are some common financial mistakes that non-finance board members make?

• How can board members ensure they are asking the right financial questions and making the best decisions for the company?

Show notes: 

In this episode, Diana Markaki, CEO and Founder of the Boardroom, talks with Andreas Utermann, a seasoned leader in the financial industry, private investor and philanthropist. Andreas serves as Chairman of the Board of Vontobel Holding since April 2022, previously serving as CEO of Allianz Global Investors. On a personal note, Andreas is a proud husband and father of three daughters. Being surrounded by powerful women his entire life, he is a passionate advocate for diversity and inclusion in the boardroom.

In today's boardroom masterclass, you will learn: 

• In what ways does diversity benefit a board of directors?

• Are gender quotas a helpful tool in our quest for greater diversity in boards?

• What is the role female role models play in this process?

Show notes: 

In this episode, Diana Markaki, CEO and Founder of the Boardroom, talks with Christine Armstrong, an internationally renowned researcher, author and vlogger on the future of work. Christine has an amazing way of summarizing the key findings of lengthy and complex research in a profoundly simple way, making you question your own assumptions, while hanging on to her every word, and laughing “helplessly”.

In today's boardroom masterclass, you will learn: 

• Is there ever a “perfect” work-life balance?

• How can we manage our time and energy to avoid burnout?

• What are the key challenges for the future of work?

Show notes: 

In this episode, Diana Markaki, CEO and Founder of the Boardroom, talks with Shelley Zalis, founder and CEO of The Female Quotient, a company that works with Fortune500 companies to advance diversity and inclusion. Also known as the “Chief Troublemaker”, Shelley is an internationally renowned thought leader, movement maker, and champion of equality who not only understands the rules of business but also knows how to break them when they no longer apply.

In today's boardroom masterclass, you will learn:

• How do you know that you are a leader?
• What are the key leadership skills today?
• Why is it more critical than ever to challenge the status quo in the brave new world of business?

Show notes:

In this episode, Diana Markaki, CEO and Founder of the Boardroom, talks with Cindy Gallop, founder of social sextech platform MakeLoveNotPorn. Cindy Gallop describes herself as the Michael Bay of business: 'I like to blow shit up.' She is known for her straight talk, her compellingly charismatic presence, and a uniquely inspirational approach to how leadership should be like today.

In today's boardroom masterclass, you will learn:

What should successful executives do to become successful board members?

Why is it important to be ready before the first board opportunity comes to you?

How can you build your personal board strategy?

Show notes:

Cindy Gallop: LinkedIn | MakeLoveNotPorn 

Book reference: Why Do So Many Incompetent Men Become Leaders? (And How to Fix It) by Tomas Chamorro-Premuzic

Plot twist! In this very first episode of the "Unlocking the Boardroom" podcast, we are turning the tables and putting Diana in the guest's seat!

Diana Markaki is an international lawyer by trade and holds an Executive MBA from Harvard Business School. As a board member and executive, she is often the only woman in the room. She is determined to change that. That's why she founded the Boardroom, the first private club for female executives who aspire to become board members.

In today's episode, Diana Markaki talks about her career journey, explains the idea behind the "Unlocking the Boardroom" podcast, and discusses the fundamentals of claiming your seat at the decision-making table in the brave new world of business.In this boardroom masterclass, you will learn:

• How is the world of work changing?
• What does diversity bring to the table in an ever-evolving business landscape?
• How does an executive career differ from being a board member?
• What are the first steps to prepare for your first board seat?

In the role of guest host, Marianna Skylakaki, economist and CEO of the award-winning media company athiNEA.

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Getting on a board is at the top of every successful executive's agenda. However, there is no manual on how to get there. No “how-to guide” to prepare to claim one's seat at the decision-making table.

Join us on a journey through the opportunities and challenges of leadership today and unlock your seat to the boardroom. New episodes drop every first Monday of each month, starting from January 23rd.

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