Season Finale! Savannah Thomas, speaks to the phenomenal Ella Podmore MBE, a multi award winning engineer, a distinguished materials engineering manager and a passionate advocate for women in engineering. With over a decade of experience in the materials sector, she has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership and expertise in managing complex projects and driving innovation in materials science. Her work has significantly contributed to advancing sustainable practices within the industry, ensuring that her team meets both operational excellence and environmental responsibility.

In recognition of her outstanding contributions, Ella was awarded the Member of the Order of the British Empire (MBE), a testament to her dedication to her profession and her community. Beyond her managerial role, she is deeply committed to promoting diversity in engineering. Ella actively mentors young women entering the field and participates in various initiatives aimed at increasing female representation in STEM careers. Through workshops, conferences, and outreach programs, she inspires the next generation of engineers to pursue their dreams and break down barriers in a traditionally male-dominated industry, in 2020 she won the IET's Young Woman Engineer of the Year!

Ella's efforts have not only advanced her career but have also fostered a more inclusive and equitable environment within the engineering sector, making her a respected leader and role model for aspiring engineers everywhere.

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Amber Jones speaks to an iconic figure in F1 - Calum Nicholas, a Senior Power Unit Assembly Technician at Red Bull Racing and a renowned pit stop crew member. He holds the Guinness World Record for the fastest tire change and gained fame through the Netflix series Drive to Survive.

Beyond his technical role, Calum advocates for diversity in motorsports via his social media platforms. His contributions to the sport and his championship-winning team underscore his expertise and commitment to excellence in Formula 1.

He shares insights about his journey in motorsport and his role within the team. Calum emphasises the thrill of working with high-performance cars and his passion for continuous learning in the fast-paced world of F1 racing.

Pre Order Calum’s Book Here

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Introducing another rising host part of the Driven By Us Community - Amber Jones speaks this week to Lawrence Barretto a prominent journalist and broadcaster, specialising in Formula 1 coverage. With over 15 years of experience in the field, he has become a key figure in motorsport media. His career took off when he became the lead live text commentator for BBC Sport, covering various sporting events, including the London 2012 Olympics.

Since 2018, Barretto has been working with Formula 1 as a senior writer and editor, later becoming an F1 correspondent and presenter in 2022. He is known for his insightful analysis and engaging interviews with drivers and team members.

His proudest moment is interviewing Michael Schumacher for the first time back in 2012, whilst he was at Mercedes and wasn’t having the best of times in his Formula 1 career. He was Lawrence' hero growing up, so it was a proud moment because he always wanted to meet him as a child.

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Mixing it up! Debbie speaks to Cayana Freeman , an international presenter, fluent in English, German, and French, known for her work with Formula 1, Formula E, and Champions League with Amazon Prime.

Raised in Germany by a Ghanaian father and German mother, she studied international business management and later moved to the UK to pursue her passion for television. She now freelances in London, collaborating on diverse projects across sports, music, and Gen Z culture, with a love for travel, fashion, and fitness.

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Debbie speaking to the legend that is Thandie Sibanda is a dynamic figure in pop culture and motorsports journalism, particularly known for her insightful contributions to Formula 1 coverage. With a rich blend of storytelling and analysis, she engages audiences through social media. Thandie is a co-host of the popular podcast "Quick Stop F1," where she discusses race analysis, F1 news, and the intersection of motorsport with social issues and pop culture.

Thandie has carved a niche in digital journalism, offering nuanced perspectives on culture, diversity, and innovation in her writing for outlets. With a growing presence on social media , where she shares her takes on F1, music and contemporary issues.

Thandie is a rising voice in the world of motorsports and beyond. Her work bridges the gap between the technical aspects of racing and the cultural impact of the sport.

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This week Debbie is speaks to Maia Rowe Sampson & Manon Clement - passionate advocates for equality and diversity.

Maia has a background in science research, education and content writing. She became frustrated that the current UK science curriculums did not give students the tools to succeed in real STEM roles, particularly in underrepresented communities, to pursue careers in STEM. Motivated by this realisation, Maia transitioned into a new role, where she could have a broader impact. She now works with AFBE-UK, collaborating on initiatives aimed at engaging young people in Birmingham with motorsport and other STEM opportunities.

Maia has also worked in content creation within the corporate sector, specifically helping large organisations fulfil their corporate social responsibility (CSR) goals through thoughtful, impactful content. Her work with a social impact agency allowed her to leverage her communication skills to drive meaningful change, while continuing to focus on education and empowerment.

Manon Clement is a dynamic content creator and digital strategist who has been making waves with her innovative storytelling and impactful content in both her day job in radio and in the Motorsport space. Through her work, she has carved out a space in which she can influence and engage diverse audiences by sharing

stories that inspire change and empower individuals. Her creative insights and fresh approach have earned her recognition in the world of digital content.

In addition to her digital work, Manon has been featured in the motorsport community through her involvement with platforms, where she brings the excitement of the sport to a broader audience. Manon is also known for her focus on advocating for greater diversity and inclusion speaking out on LGBTQAI+ in traditionally male-dominated fields.

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On todays episode Debbie speak the wonderful Zoe Chilton, a seasoned motorsports professional with significant experience in the world of Formula 1. She is best known for her role at Red Bull Racing, where she served as Head of Strategic Partnerships.

During her tenure at Red Bull, Zoe was instrumental in building and maintaining key relationships between the team and its sponsors, helping drive the brand’s global presence and success. She worked on innovative collaborations that showcased Red Bull Racing’s cutting-edge technology and marketing acumen.

In 2023, Zoe Chilton made headlines as she transitioned to Audi F1, taking on a pivotal role as the German automaker prepares to enter the Formula 1 grid in 2026. With her expertise in partnerships, marketing, and brand management, Zoe is expected to play a crucial role in shaping Audi’s F1 strategy and ensuring a smooth entry into the sport. Her experience with a top-tier team like Red Bull Racing, combined with her ability to foster strong corporate relationships, makes her a valuable asset to Audi's ambitious F1 project.

Beyond her work in motorsports, Zoe Chilton is also recognised for her leadership skills and her contributions to increasing diversity and inclusion in the industry, as well as her passion for technological innovation.

Produced By Driven By Us CIC

Chief Videographer & Editor - Maddie Rome

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