Global Skills Podcast
Hosted by Vanessa Wainwright — global skills strategist and industry leader with over 22 years of experience. The Global Skills Podcast explores one of the most urgent challenges of our time: closing the global skills gap and future-proofing talent in an age of rapid change. Each episode, Vanessa speaks with brilliant leaders from business, education, and government, that are shaping the future of work, reimagining learning, and transforming how talent is discovered and developed. Together, they uncover the real challenges organizations face, the strategies that are working, and what the future holds for skills, AI, and human potential. From CEOs and policymakers to entrepreneurs, educators, and mid-career professionals, this is the space where ideas meet action, helping leaders and learners alike navigate the new world of work. Proudly sponsored by Abodoo, whose mission is to ensure that everyone, everywhere, has access to learning, work, and opportunity by empowering organizations and educators with world-class skills technology to close the gap and future-proof their talent.
Episodes

Thursday Nov 20, 2025
Thursday Nov 20, 2025
In this episode, I sit down with Edmund Monk to explore what leadership really looks like in a world shaped by rapid technological change. This was one of those conversations that stays with you long after it ends. We dig into humility, learning, and the power of pairing human intelligence with artificial intelligence.
I share my own observations on leadership across generations, and Ed breaks down why curiosity, continuous learning, and self-awareness matter now more than ever. This episode is all about becoming the kind of leader who can navigate complexity without losing the human element.
Whether you are navigating leadership, team dynamics, generational shifts, or the impact of AI on the workplace, this episode will speak directly to you.
Connect with Edmund Monk
https://www.linkedin.com/in/edmonk/
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Connect with the Host Vanessa Wainwright LinkedIn
Visit Our Website https://www.globalskillspodcast.com
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Send us an email at editor@globalskillspodcast.com

Monday Nov 17, 2025
Monday Nov 17, 2025
In this episode, I sit down with Revda Sari, Talent Manager at Compilio Health and Associate Member of the CIPD, to explore the urgent skills challenges in the healthcare industry. Revda shares her inspiring journey from marketing into recruitment and how her passion for connecting people led her to build a decade-long career in healthcare.
We talk about the realities behind the talent shortage in the NHS and private sector, the importance of learning and development, and why healthcare needs more investment in people, digital tools, and education partnerships to close the growing skills gap. Revda also shares her vision for the future — one where AI supports healthcare professionals, younger generations are encouraged into the field, and companies focus on purpose as much as performance.
This is a powerful conversation about the people behind the system, the purpose that drives them, and what it will take to build a sustainable future for global healthcare.
Connect With Revda Sari
https://www.linkedin.com/in/revdacelem/
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Connect with the Host Vanessa Wainwright LinkedIn
Visit Our Website https://www.globalskillspodcast.com
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Send us an email at editor@globalskillspodcast.com

Thursday Nov 13, 2025
Thursday Nov 13, 2025
In this episode, I sit down with Skai O’Sullivan , Talent Director at Connexus, where she leads the Financial, Professional Services, and Technology divisions across Ireland, Europe, and the US. With over a decade of experience across agency and in-house recruitment, Skai brings an insightful, human-centered perspective on how the world of work is changing.
We explore the evolution of recruitment in an AI-driven age, the growing demand for commercial awareness across all roles, and why human connection remains at the heart of great hiring. Skai also shares how companies can build skills-first hiring strategies, the power of apprenticeships beyond traditional trades, and how fractional work is redefining career paths for experienced professionals.
Together, we dive into what it means to be a recruiter today balancing technology and empathy, rethinking talent pipelines, and shaping workplaces that value both people and progress.
Connect with Skai O'Sullivan
Skai O' Sullivan LinkedIn
Connect with the Global Skills Podcast
Connect with the Host Vanessa Wainwright LinkedIn
Visit Our Website https://www.globalskillspodcast.com
Check out our GSP Newsletter
Send us an email at editor@globalskillspodcast.com

Monday Nov 10, 2025
Monday Nov 10, 2025
In this episode, I sit down with Jayke to dive into the often-overlooked art of job advertising. We explore how powerful writing can completely transform recruitment results, why niche expertise matters, and how staying human and connected is key to success in the talent space. Jayke shares his passion for face-to-face training in a digital world and how his hands-on approach helps recruiters elevate their craft.
We also talk about future-proofing your career — how to stay relevant, keep learning, and build genuine networks that open doors. Jayke’s down-to-earth perspective on recruitment, creativity, and growth makes this such a refreshing and inspiring listen for anyone in talent acquisition or career development.
Make sure to connect, share your thoughts, and tag us if this conversation resonated with you.
Connect with Jayke Annan
Linkedin : https://www.linkedin.com/in/jaykeannan/
Connect with the Global Skills Podcast
Connect with the Host Vanessa Wainwright LinkedIn
Visit Our Website https://www.globalskillspodcast.com
Check out our GSP Newsletter
Send us an email at editor@globalskillspodcast.com

Thursday Nov 06, 2025
Thursday Nov 06, 2025
In this episode, I sit down with Patrick to explore how talent acquisition is evolving from an administrative function into a true business partner. Patrick shares his 25-year journey from headhunting in London’s dot-com boom to leading a data-driven TA team in Sweden.
We talk about what it means to create value in TA, why data matters more than ever, and how AI will reshape hiring. Patrick also opens up about the importance of inclusion, breaking down the “us vs. them” dynamic with hiring managers, and how future TA leaders can stay ahead by becoming proactive, AI-literate, and impact-driven.
Connect With Patrick Donovan
Linkedin : https://www.linkedin.com/in/ken-b-4169921/
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Connect with the Host Vanessa Wainwright LinkedIn
Visit Our Website https://www.globalskillspodcast.com
Check out our GSP Newsletter
Send us an email at editor@globalskillspodcast.com

Monday Nov 03, 2025
Monday Nov 03, 2025
In this episode, I sit down with Ken, the founder and CEO of Talent Partners, to explore the future of skills, talent, and AI in the workplace. We dive into how organizations can adapt to transformation as usual, why AI is reshaping both talent acquisition and management, and the importance of continuous upskilling. Ken shares how his own team is using AI to streamline workflows, his insights on the evolving skills gap, and why trust and relationships will always remain at the heart of business success. This is an honest and forward-thinking conversation about the realities of technology, talent, and leadership in today’s changing world.
Connect with the Ken Brotherson
https://www.linkedin.com/in/ken-b-4169921/
Connect with the Global Skills Podcast
Connect with the Host Vanessa Wainwright LinkedIn
Visit Our Website https://www.globalskillspodcast.com
Check out our GSP Newsletter
Send us an email at editor@globalskillspodcast.com

Thursday Oct 30, 2025
Thursday Oct 30, 2025
In this episode of The Global Skills Podcast, I sit down with Nathan, Head of People and Recruitment at Raffles London, to talk about how one of the world’s most iconic hotels is transforming the way it hires, develops, and retains talent.
Nathan shares his journey from chef to people leader, what it takes to build a culture of growth, and how Raffles has achieved one of the lowest attrition rates in the industry. We explore why linking recruitment with learning and development is key, how the hospitality world is evolving post-COVID, and the growing influence of AI in hiring.
This conversation is full of inspiration and practical wisdom for anyone passionate about people, leadership, and the future of work.
The Global Skills Podcast is brought to you by Abodoo http://www.abodoo.com/ , a platform championing inclusive, skills-based hiring and the future of remote work.
Connect with Nathan
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nathan-c-6b890955/
Connect with the Global Skills Podcast
Connect with the Host Vanessa Wainwright LinkedIn
Visit Our Website https://www.globalskillspodcast.com
Check out our GSP Newsletter
Send us an email at editor@globalskillspodcast.com

Thursday Oct 23, 2025
Thursday Oct 23, 2025
Today, I had the pleasure of speaking with Josh Webster, a true powerhouse in talent acquisition and AI-driven recruitment. From building record-breaking talent teams to integrating AI into hiring, Josh has led recruitment for one of the fastest-growing AI companies, AlphaSense. In this episode, we dive deep into his journey, lessons learned, and predictions for the future of TA.
Josh shares how his early experiences in the Territorial Army and his competitive drive led him into recruitment. He walks us through his career from engineering and corporate recruitment to leading talent acquisition in the tech and AI space. Along the way, we explore the importance of upskilling, building high-performing teams, and embracing AI without losing the human touch in recruitment. Josh also shares actionable strategies for leaders and candidates alike, emphasizing skills-based hiring, authentic connection, and the evolving role of AI in talent acquisition.
Connect with Josh Webster
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/joshua-webster-maat-13391b103/
Connect with the Host
Vanessa Wainwright LinkedIn
Visit Our Website Global Skill Podcast
Check out our GSP Newsletter
Send us an email at editor@globalskillspodcast.com

Monday Oct 20, 2025
Monday Oct 20, 2025
Welcome to the very first episode of The Global Skills Podcast! I’m so excited to start this journey with Betty Encinacles, a global talent leader and changemaker who’s worked with some of the world’s top companies.
Betty’s story is one of purpose, people, and the power of intuition. We talked about how she found her way into recruitment, what’s changing in the world of work, and why human connection still matters more than ever.
This conversation reminded me why I started this podcast to explore the skills, stories, and heart behind the global workforce.
Tune in to hear Betty’s journey, her take on the future of talent, and the one skill she believes we all need more of.
Connect with today's Guest
Betty Encinacles on LinkedIn
Connect with the Global Skills Podcast
Host Vanessa Wainwright LinkedIn
Website Global Skill Podcast
The Global Skills Podcast is brought to you by Abodoo, a platform championing inclusive, skills-based hiring and the future of remote work.

Monday Oct 20, 2025
Monday Oct 20, 2025
The world of work is changing fast, and the skills gap is growing even faster.
I’m Vanessa Wainwright, and on The Global Skills Podcast, I explore how we can bridge that gap. Each week, I talk with leaders, educators, and innovators rethinking how we learn, work, and grow in an AI-driven world.
This isn’t just about jobs. It’s about opportunity and unlocking human potential. Join me and be part of the movement to close the skills gap and build a future where everyone has a place.
Connect with the Global Skills Podcast
Connect with the Host Vanessa Wainwright LinkedIn
Visit Our Website Global Skill Podcast
Check out our GSP Newsletter
Send us an email at editor@globalskillspodcast.com
The Global Skills Podcast is brought to you by Abodoo, a platform championing inclusive, skills-based hiring and the future of remote work.







