How can we remodel role models? With Eilish McColgan and Lucy Traynor

Beating the odds. Getting the gold. Staying fearless. Showing strength. Never stopping.    We hear those words used about some of the world’s biggest role models. The people who, when the spotlight shines on them, seem superhuman. But what if we switched that spotlight to focus on the human too, rather than just the super?  

Instead of beating the odds, our hero got beaten – but came back next time. Instead of staying fearless, they felt the fear but did it anyway. Instead of showing strength, they showed softness. Instead of never stopping, they asked to take a break.  

Role models are important – particularly for women and girls. And even more so for the team of five girls from Grey Coat Hospital School who’ve worked with us on this special episode of The Green Room.

Winners of a nationwide competition to host and produce The Green Room, the girls were interested in how we can find more representative role models and celebrate their stories. Joining them in the studio to explore the topic is Eilish McColgan, Team GB Olympian and long-distance runner, and Lucy Traynor, UK Purpose Lead at Deloitte.  

Tune in to find out: 

• Why role models are so important and how they influence us
• The responsibility that comes with being an inspiration for others
• How to find authentic role models to connect with
• Why social media is changing how we share our stories

Enjoyed this episode? Check our website for our recommendations to learn more about this topic: deloitte.co.uk/greenroompodcasts

You can also watch our episodes on YouTube: youtube.com/@DeloitteUK 

Find out more about Debate Mate here: debatemate.com

Guests: Eilish McColgan, Team GB Olympian and long-distance runner, and Lucy Traynor, UK Purpose Lead at Deloitte

Hosts: Annie Wong and Portia Gitau

Original music: Ali Barrett