From Patriarchy to Partnership

I’ve just returned from a week at La Dolce Vita for Coaches — a beautiful time I set aside to deepen my coaching skills and presence, in one of the most inspiring places on earth: Tuscany. Specifically, at Bagni di Pisa, a former ducal palace and now an exquisite spa hotel steeped in history and healing.

This was a week away from routine and responsibility.  A week of stillness, reflection, and immersion. I left my laptop in its case, never once opened an email or glanced at social media. Instead, I was fully present: engaged in the learning, connected with brilliant women on a shared journey of growth and purpose.

The experience has given me clarity, courage, and conviction — and reaffirmed a truth I’ve long felt in my bones: it’s time to stop the madness.

The madness I speak of is the result of a cultural paradigm that no longer serves us. Patriarchy isn’t working. It never truly did. And by clinging to it for so long, we’ve done harm to our world, our organisations, and ourselves.

It’s time for something different.

It’s time to shift from Patriarchy to Partnership.

Nearly 20 years ago, I received a powerful calling, to begin this work by empowering women. That journey has been my passion and purpose ever since. But now, a new phase begins. I’m extending my coaching and programs to empower men too, to help them also lead with compassion, integrity, and courage.

Because only when empowered women and empowered men stand side by side, each recognising and respecting the unique strengths and perspectives the other brings, can we truly create the change our world so desperately needs.

That’s how we stop the madness.
That’s how we build a world that works for everyone, not just a privileged few.

My heartfelt thanks to Cath Daley for bringing this exceptional program to life, and to the extraordinary women who shared it with me — Michelle Hall, Ela Wassell, Karen Jones, Trudie McGuinness, and Claire Whitehead-Wall.

Let the adventure begin!